DEAR SUN SPOTS: The historical societies of Mechanic Falls and Poland invite you to a presentation and tour of the Advent Christian Camp at 128 Lewiston Road in Mechanic Falls on Saturday, Aug. 8, at 10 a.m.

The camp is associated with the Advent Christian Church, a denomination established in 1860 in Salem, Massachusetts. The Advent Christian Campmeeting Association, then known as the Androscoggin Campmeeting Association, purchased the current property in 1889.

Camp meetings have been held there since then, with local people arriving by horse and carriage, by Maine Central or Grand Trunk Railroads, and by the electric car line that was completed in 1907. More historical information can be found at www.maccma.net.

Come join us, walk around the grounds, and learn more about this historic place. The rain date is set for Saturday, Aug. 15, at the same time. For more information, please call 998-5268. — David, no town  

ANSWER: I went to the website to read the history about this camp, and it is interesting. These old-timey places that are still available to us are special and are part of Maine history, something we can be proud of. I’m always in awe of those volunteers who give their time and energy to these organizations, facilities, and functions that take us to Maine’s unique past.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: We’re having a yard sale at the Universalist Church vestry in Turner Center on Route 117 (Turner Center Road) across from the gazebo, on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This event will take place rain or shine and is our final sale. We have a large assortment of items and all must go.

This sale benefits the “Circle” for the upkeep of the downstairs. — Elvera, Turner

ANSWER: I don’t know about you, but I’m always looking for an excuse to take a drive out to Turner. Who knows what we’ll find at this sale, but there’s always something we can’t live without!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m looking for a recommendation to convert my unused brick hearth into a spot where I can install a small woodstove or fireplace insert. With the price of fuel oil, I must do something about an alternative heat source. — Jane, Farmington

ANSWER: Right in Farmington, at 639 Wilton Road, there is Northern Lights Maine, Inc. (www.northernlightsmaine.com, 778-6566). The store is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. They also do chimney work — a big plus.

Another choice is Fireside Stove Shop (www.firesidestoveshop.com/, 784-9249) at 1220 Center St. in Auburn. The store is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I can personally vouch for Hearth Doctor (hearthdoctor.com/) at 281 Washington St. in Auburn (241-2435). The store is open on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sun Spotters, if you have a business to recommend that takes care of installing and servicing woodstoves, fireplace inserts, and pellet stoves, please chime in.

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