DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is there going to be a Maine Maple Sunday this year? If so, what weekend is it happening and do we know what sugar houses in the area will participate? — Bernice, no town

ANSWER: According to the Maine Maple Producers Association, organizers and sugarhouse owners and staff are adapting to follow the Center for Disease Control guidelines as they gear up for safe, fun ways for their guests to celebrate Maine’s maple syrup industry on March 27-28.

Events will look and feel a little different this year, but those who own and work at sugarhouses are stepping up to be sure it all happens safely and efficiently. Not only do our state’s maple syrup producers’ livelihoods depend on it, but all of us maple enthusiasts are really looking forward to tasting a fresh batch of syrup and all the products that are derived from maple tree sap and syrup. Besides, this is an annual rite of early spring that gives us hope and helps us count down the days until daffodils are blooming and robins are flitting about.

According to the MMPA, more than $27 million for the Maine economy is generated by the state’s maple syrup industry, supporting more than 560 jobs that generate more than $17.3 million in wages. Annually, the state produces more than 575,000 gallons of syrup.

If you want to go for a drive, there’s a complete listing of participating sugarhouses in the state at https://mainemapleproducers.com/maine-maple-sunday#!directory/map .

Sugarhouses in our readership area include Jillson Farm, Maple Rush Sugar House, and Pep’s Pure Maple Syrup in Sabattus, Maple Hill Enterprises in Durham, Ricker Hill Orchards in Turner, Pineland Farms in New Gloucester, Russell Farm in Poland, and Slattery’s Sugar House in West Minot. Enjoy!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m downsizing to move at the end of March and hope to find someone who would like a rather large bin of great DVD and VHS movies and another two smaller bins of a great collection of music CDs. These are very mixed collections in great condition. If there is someone out there who would like to pick up these bins from a Lewiston address, please contact me at 783-2739 only after 2 p.m. any day within the next two weeks.

Thank you for everything you do for our community! — Karen, Lewiston

ANSWER: I’m sure you’ll get some takers on this so be ready for your phone to ring! I want to remind everyone that those VHS movies can be transferred to DVDs with software programs, special equipment that you can purchase, or by taking the tapes to Photo Finish at the Auburn Mall (783-3354).

I wish the best of luck to you with your transition and in your new home.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: When do Dairy Joy and Dairy Treat in Lewiston open for the season? — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: You don’t have much longer to wait for a taste of your preferred ice cream treats. I’ve heard that both spots will be open around St. Patrick’s Day. You may have to bundle up for that first cone, but at least you won’t have to worry about your favorite frozen scoop melting too quickly!

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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