DEAR SUN SPOTS: I know an elderly person who needs massage therapy for pain. Being on a fixed income, leaving the recommended tip is not possible as only occasional massages are affordable. She feels terrible and has stopped going to a particular place because she feels pressured to tip. Would tipping still be necessary if she were to go to a therapist who works alone and owns the business herself? I remember being told that if the person who provides the service owns the business that tipping is not necessary. If one works for the business owner and provides you the service then tipping is recommended. Does that still hold? — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: A concern that comes up for me when reading this letter is that your friend “feels pressured to tip.” Is it her own sense of decorum that makes her feel pressured, or is the therapist doing or saying something that is making her feel “pressured”?

I have had many massages over the years (in both a spa and a medical setting). In a spa, or in a sole proprietorship, when I go in for the first time, I ask if tips are accepted and if so, I’m prepared with 20% of the total to add to the fee. Most often, I’m told either that tips are gladly accepted or that tips are not expected, but appreciated. In a medical setting, such as a physical therapy practice, tips are not expected.

It sounds like your friend needs to have a heart-to-heart conversation with her provider so they can continue to work together comfortably. Massage therapists, please weigh in.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: To the kind person who found my misplaced money envelope and returned it to the Mexico Credit Union, you have my sincere thanks! — Lewis, no town

ANSWER: I’ll add my thanks to this honest, kind person.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: For the past few weeks I have been seeing a lot of questions and replies to where Wasson’s Grove was. People have written in with fond memories of Wasson’s Grove with its delicious hamburgers and fries, too.

I grew up on Falmouth Foreside and way back in the old days before McDonald’s and when gas was 28 cents a gallon, that was the place to go. It was on Route 100 or the old Portland Road in West Falmouth. They had swings that were shaped like animals, and a slide and picnic tables. I used to take my younger brother there on a Saturday night and would meet friends there. I even took my two kids there.

We could also go over to Harmon’s Lunch that was on the same road in West Falmouth. They only had hamburgers and chips, but they have expanded their menu over the years. The ownership has changed there, but the food is still great.

Wasson’s Grove closed many years ago and although it’s gone, it will never be forgotten. What sweet memories! Thank you all for writing in. — Liz, Minot

ANSWER: All of us have special places that we will never forget and these stories are all a part of who we are. I always feel privileged to read them and share them with everyone in Sun Spots Land. Keep ‘em coming!

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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