DEAR SUN SPOTS: In this uncertain COVID-19 time, is there going to be a Memorial Day Parade in the Twin Cities? Also, have there been enough names collected to add a new memorial stone at Veterans Memorial Park, and if so, when will that be dedicated? — No Name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I called Jerry Dewitt, chairman of the Lewiston and Auburn Veterans Council. Sadly, there will be no Memorial Day Parade again this year in the Twin Cities. However, there will be a Memorial Day ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 29. This will be held at Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street in Lewiston and include the unveiling of the Goldstar Families’ Monument and a bench.

Surely, we’ll be celebrating Memorial Day in a big way in 2022. One can only hope that all our wonderful local traditions will return and we’ll appreciate them more than ever after being without them for such a long stretch. That being said, I urge everyone to create new ways to honor our veterans and to celebrate this Memorial Day, rather than lament “the way things used to be.” We have to resist getting stuck and continue to move forward through “these unprecedented times.”

As far as your second question goes, for those who don’t know, Veterans Memorial Park is a beautiful, respectful tribute to our country’s veterans. Located next to the Androscoggin River on Main Street, it is an inspirational testament to men and women who have served our country within all branches of the U.S. military. 

Dewitt tells me that the new memorial stone with veterans’ names that have been submitted will be unveiled July 4.

The websites for Lewiston (lewistonmaine.gov) and Auburn (auburnmaine.gov) have more information regarding Veterans Memorial Park.  There is an application on the websites as well, if you would like to add the name of a qualifying veteran to the ongoing memorial.

To have a veteran’s name engraved on the memorial stone, the individual must be a veteran presently serving, retired or passed on and honorably discharged from one of the branches of the U.S. military, including the Reserves, National Guard, Merchant Marine or any other branches of the military. A copy of any DD214, 215, 217-MC , WD AGO 53-55, or a photo in uniform is to be attached to this application stating the type of discharge. There is a $35 fee.

I encourage readers to honor their veterans in this way and let the L&A Veterans Council know that Ms. Sun Spots sent you!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding squirrel-proof bird feeders, we have a Squirrel Buster Classic made by Brome at Bromebirdcare.com.  It’s not only squirrel-proof, but also held up well when a bear took it into the nearby woods. The bear twisted the cage that surrounds it, but the feeder still works and prevents squirrels from getting to the seed. — No name, Poland

ANSWER: I bet that was one frustrated bear and I think it would have been fun to watch — from a distance, of course! If you haven’t already, you may want to write a note of appreciation to the company for making such a fine, sturdy product!

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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