ANSWER: First, always try to make sure there is nothing inviting the ants in on purpose — so make sure to eliminate lingering food particles that could be attracting them. Still, some ants feast on the very wood of which your home is constructed, and that can cause bigger problems than just their pesky presence. There are several suggested methods for ridding your home of ants, but if you’re unable to find the right one for your particular ants, then you may need to call a pest exterminator for a consultation.

There are certain scents that ants reportedly dislike, such as cinnamon, mint, lemon and vinegar, and therefore may act as a deterrent. Since Sun Spots is not an ant, however, she can’t say for sure if the reports are true, so trial and error may be your best hope. Apply these scents, individually, in liquid form to areas where the ants seems to frequent and if you find that one is working, then reapply as necessary.

Perhaps some readers have already tried these or other methods and can share with us some insight into what has worked for them. Sun Spots loves to hear from you.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Recently, there was an announcement about a color run in L-A this month. Could you, please, find out the details and contact person. My granddaughter is hoping to do one. Thank you. — Karen, Fayette.

ANSWER: There is the Color Me Rad 5k, http://www.colormerad.com/location/maine-2/#158, which will take place on Saturday, Aug. 13 at Simard-Payne Memorial Park and will benefit the YMCA. Of course, there is also the Freedom Color Run in Rumford that takes place today at Hosmer Field. Registration is at 8 a.m. with the race beginning at 9 a.m.The kids’ Color Run starts around 10 a.m. and all profits support the Fourth of July Committee’s fireworks show. Amanda Hamner is the event organizer, but if you’re reading this (and it’s early enough), then she’s probably already at the race.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The LFHS Class of 1949 is reminded that their 67th class reunion will be held on Saturday, July 16 at La Fleurs Restaurant in Jay. A social hour will be held from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by a luncheon. Those who have not responded are asked to call either Winnie Shink at (207) 897-2204 or Meredith Dalessandro at 897-3373. Thank you. — Winnie, Jay.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: AMVETS Post 6 Auxiliary will be having the annual flea market on Saturday, July 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the post home on Route 100, New Gloucester (across from Hodgman’s Frozen Custard). New and used items, unique crafts and collectibles will be available. The event will take place rain or shine. Table rentals are available for $15. Call Joyce at (207) 926-4693 or Helen at 576-7189 to reserve your table for this event. Proceeds from the event will benefit the auxiliary’s yearly projects. — Joyce, New Gloucester.

Use the QR code to go to Sun Spots online for additional information and links. 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 be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com, tweeted @SJ_SunSpots or posted on the Sun Spots Facebook page at facebook.com/SunJournalSunSpots. This column can also be read online at sunjournal.com/sunspots. We’ve joined Pinterest at http://pinterest.com/sj_sunspots.

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