Dear Sun Spots: I will be moving into a house that has a damp basement. I am concerned that clothes and books might be affected. Is there some way to store clothes and books so that they will not be destroyed? – No Name, No Town

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, wrapping pipes in insulation and running a dehumidifier provide a quick fix to this problem, as does opening a basement window or two to promote ventilation. While running the dehumidifier, however, close the windows and the basement door for optimum efficiency. A self-draining unit is especially helpful since it won’t shut off once the system has reached capacity. These units are connected directly to the floor drain.

Since basements can be damp, metal shelving and cabinetry protect possessions better than wooden alternatives; plastic bins, in turn, protect better than cardboard boxes. If you are using plastic tubs for storing clothes, make sure that the bin is not airtight, as clothing needs some ventilation. If you do store in cardboard boxes, don’t stack them – always leave space for air circulation.

Dear Sun Spots: I enjoy this column so much I never fail to read it. It’s most helpful. I would like to know where there is a Tupperware dealer near my hometown. I’d like the telephone numbers and names of dealers. – G.H., No Town.

Answer: Contact: Kimberly Crowley at (207) 784-4967; Exceptional Sales, Brunswick, (207) 729-9599; Top Gun Sales, Bangor, (207) 945-3472; and Victory Sales, (207) 784-0062. You may also want to check out Tupperware online at www.tupperware.com.

Dear Sun Spots: Since 9/11, a lot of people have had a patriotic response to the terrorist attacks. Americans are hanging flags from their porches, nailing them to the sides of the buildings, barns, tethering them to car antennas, taping paper versions to windows, painting them on cards, trucks, boats, Ski Doos, 4-wheelers and on. Some have even gone as far as buying flagpoles and displaying the flag that came with the pole that is now weathered, faded, tattered and torn.

A little-known fact is the proper way of disposing of the flag, which is by burning, which many Americans are uncomfortable with. The American Legion has drafted and installed a standard ceremony for the proper and reverent disposal of unserviceable flags. It is usually held on Flag Day, which is June 14, but at night and is done in the presence of a full honor guard and officiated by the post commander, sergeant of arms and chaplain.

However, not all patriots are following the rules and showing respect and reverence to the national flag. I would like to see my community get involved in restoring the dignity of the American flag.

You can drop off your unserviceable cloth flags at Turner’s only Sports Barbershop, 451 Lower St., between 3-8 p.m. Monday-Friday. The flags will be folded and stored until July 1 when they will be given to Jerry Derboghosian of the American Legion for the Liberty Festival flag-burning ceremony to be held in Auburn on July 3. If you have nylon flags, please contact your local Girl Scouts. Part of their community service is to collect worn nylon flags and have them incinerated at designated industries that can prevent fumes from polluting the air. For more information on the Liberty Festival flag burning on July 3, contact Jerry DerBoghosian, American Legion Post 22, (207) 353-7435. Or please call the Trinity Jubilee Center between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at (207) 782-5700. – No Name, No Town.

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