DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is there anyone in the local area who does energy assessments? I’d like to have one completed on my home. — David, Auburn

ANSWER: The best way to start on your quest is to contact Efficiency Maine in Augusta (https://www.efficiencymaine.com/at-home/energy-audit/). There is an email form for you to fill out on this site. You can also email the organization at info@efficiencymaine.com or call 1-866-367-2463. I have used this resource a few times and have had great results with finding just what I needed. Contractors in your area, along with the services they provide and DIY tips, are listed on the site.

Another resource for Androscoggin and Oxford counties is Community Concepts (https://www.ccimaine.org/HomeEnergyImprovement, 1-800-866-5588).

Conserving energy and all our natural resources is an important topic so readers, if you have recommendations for energy assessment services or other tips to share, please write in.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to the retired teacher seeking remote job opportunities (Jan. 31 Sun Spots), there are legitimate virtual teaching opportunities in Maine. Did you know that Maine Virtual Academy is a public charter school, approved by the State of Maine, that is available to all students in the state?  You can find out more information about the school at its website  https://www.mainevirtualacademy.org/ .

Not all students find their needs met at traditional schools. We are fortunate that our state is forward-thinking and flexible in offering opportunities for all students. — No name, no town

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ANSWER: Thank you for this suggestion! There are some great online tutoring jobs and it’s good to know a teacher can be involved in a Maine school but work from home.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The J & O Irish Museum in Hartford would love to receive the stuffed animals referred to in the Feb. 1 Sun Spots.

The museum consists of a store with the living quarters on the second and third floor. The store closed in 1953 and the Hartford Heritage Society acquired the property in the 1970s.  Since that time, the members have been maintaining and restoring the property. We are open to the public on Sundays during July and August or by appointment.

Thank you for considering us for any donations you might have to our museum, either to the store or the living quarters. If you need further information, please contact me at dmaxwell@megalink.net. Thank you, Sun Spots for all your great information. — Doreen, J & O Irish Museum Treasurer, Hartford

ANSWER: How fun! This sounds like a great place for lots of people to enjoy those vintage stuffies.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to what to do with greeting cards (Jan. 13 Sun Spots), you can send them to St. Jude Children’s Ranch Recycled Card Program, 100 St. Jude’s St., Boulder City, NV 89005.

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Send only the front of the cards. The children make new cards to sell to make money for the ranch. I have been sending my cards there for years. It’s a good way to repurpose them and not throw them away.

Hallmark, American Greetings and Disney cards are not accepted due to copyright laws. —Constance & Robin, no town

ANSWER: Two different Sun Spotters sent in the above response. You can also donate new cards with or without envelopes. For more information, call 702-294-7100

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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