DEAR SUN SPOTS: Last year at this time I asked for Christmas decorations for our sale in November and we had an overwhelming response from Sun Spots readers. For that, we are very thankful. Our sale was such a success that we will do it again this year.
We are now asking again if people are downsizing and/or decluttering their Christmas decorations, Fairbanks Union Church would be very willing to take them. We collect anything for Christmas from ornaments, trees, wreaths, linens, lights, dishes, both inside and outside decorations. You name it! The funds we earn go to our mission work.
For more information, please call 491-4017, 778-2420, or 778-3808. We are at 583 Fairbanks Road in Farmington. — Cynthia, Farmington
ANSWER: I’m pleased you are having that sale again. It’s so unique that I remember it from previous years. I love the idea and will get some items over to you myself!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Where can I get a “Lewiston Strong” T-shirt? — No name, Lewiston
Several wonderful individuals have created Lewiston-branded T-shirts and other apparel to raise money for those impacted by the Oct. 25 mass shooting. Among them are Rogue Life Maine’s “Lewiston Strong” shirts; Natalie Beaudoin’s “We Are Lew1ston” design, and Bates students’ take on a “Lewiston Strong,” design featuring a silhouette of Maine with a heart over Lewiston.
T-shirts and sweatshirts can be purchased at Lewiston’s Rogue Life Maine through their website at (https://www.roguelifemaine.com/products/lewiston-strong-fundraiser-t-shirt)
A different style can be found by another designer here: https://viralstyle.com/designerworld/lewiston-strong-t-shirts and there are many options on https://www.etsy.com/, but I’m uncertain if the proceeds are going toward helping the victims’ families on some of those sites, so keep that in mind.
For those who wish to recognize the impact of this tragedy on the whole of Maine, there are also “Maine Strong” T-shirts and hoodies.
One design (a solid-colored silhouette of the state with a heart over Lewiston) T-shirts and sweatshirts of various colors can be found at Salt & Pine Company in Westbrook (https://www.saltandpineco.com/products/maine-strong).
With all products, net proceeds are being donated to Maine Community Foundation’s Lewiston- Auburn Response Fund and will go to the victim’s families.
Readers, if you see “Lewiston Strong” or “Maine Strong” apparel and items in shops as you’re out and about, please let us know.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I need to have my chimney topped off. Do you have any numbers for masons in your Rolodex?
Thank you very much for all you do. We are very lucky to have your service and we never miss your column. — No name, no town
ANSWER: When you say, “topped off,” do you mean having a cap put on it or having actual masonry work done to close it off completely, or to repair it? To have the situation evaluated, you can go to the Maine Chapter of the Chimney Safety Institute of America (https://web.csia.org/CSIA-Certified/Maine) and type in your ZIP code. There, you will see a list of chimney sweeps in your area with some of them providing masonry services, along with their contact information. There is also an email form on the site so you can contact them.
I can recommend The Baker Chimney Cleaning Company (https://www.bakerchimney.com/repairs.html) as I have used them myself for many years. The number is 725-4640.
Meanwhile, readers, please make recommendations.
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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