DEAR SUN SPOTS: Just before Christmas I was at a stop sign waiting to exit Home Depot. I saw a young man running across the parking lot waving his arms. He came to my car and told me a rear tire was flat. He said I should back up into a parking space and he would change it for me. He did so efficiently and pleasantly. He gave me some helpful advice, declined my offer of compensation, wished me a hearty “Merry Christmas,” and sent me on my stress-free way. My family and I were touched and very grateful for his gift of kindness.

— No name, New Gloucester

ANSWER: What a heartwarming holiday story; truly a Sun Spot!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: My sister and I had dinner at the Lotus Blossom Restaurant in Farmington on Friday, Jan. 4. When our bill came the waitress informed us that someone had given us a gift certificate for $35 toward our meals. We did find out who did it. Thank you Jodi, Chris and Tyler!

— Jo, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for a local senior center where we can meet other seniors, play cards, have lunch, etc. I live in the Oxford Hills area.

— Mary, no name

ANSWER: The best advice I can give you is to contact SeniorsPlus at 8 Falcon Rd. in Lewiston at 1-800-427-1241. They are so nice and will put you in touch with an incredible number of resources. It’s way too easy to feel isolated this time of year so I’m happy you are seeking opportunities to get out and about.

You may also want to check out social activities at your local churches, grange hall, schools and library. Volunteering with an organization that interests you is also a positive way to stave off the winter blues. Have fun exploring and please report back to let us know how you’re doing!

Oxford Hill seniors, send in your ideas!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I was wondering if the photo winners from the 2018 Great Falls Balloon Festival were ever announced? I submitted photos.

— No name, no town

ANSWER: I have been unable to locate this information on the Great Falls Balloon Festival website or on their Facebook page. I reached out to them at info@greatfallsballoonfestival.org, but have not yet heard back from them. If any readers have information about who won the 2018 photo competition, please let us know! All amateur photographers may also want to start getting geared up for the 2019 festival.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I used to love the Weather Channel app on my phone. A few weeks back they supposedly revised it. In my book, it is not an improvement. You use to get a clear picture at a glance. I have to wonder, “Why fix something that isn’t broken?” I’m also wondering if anyone else feels the same way and if they might have found another weather app that is more user-friendly. Thanks, dear Sun Spots, for solving our many dilemmas.

— No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I have noticed the change to the Weather Channel app, as well. Sometimes it takes a bit of time to adjust to something new! I like AccuWeather and Weather Underground. Readers, which weather app works for you?

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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