DEAR SUN SPOTS: We are offering everyone a chance to learn all about the Foss Mansion at 19 Elm St. in Auburn. This is an opportunity to see everything from the World War II era dance room in the attic to the original century-old whole house vacuum motor in the cellar, and everything in between. Tours are available on Saturday, Jan. 14, for $15 per person. Reservations are required to book a time slot. Proceeds support the conservation and restoration of the Foss Mansion.

Contact womansliteraryunion@gmaiil.com or Doreen at 577-1784. — Kathy, Auburn

ANSWER: This sounds like a unique activity to break up the long, cold month of January. Are you in? Supporting this grand old mansion any way you can is appreciated.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Late Saturday evening, Dec. 17, I noticed water in my cellar. On the water bill, it says to call 911 if Public Works is unavailable. The 911 dispatcher said the fire department would respond; I assume they came from the nearest substation on Lisbon Street. Two firefighters checked the situation and helped set up my sump pump (bought and used once in 2008).

I then left a message at Able Power Rooter, who had responded to my flooded cellar call on Oct. 15, 1998.

 I cannot express how grateful I am for the two young men who arrived Sunday morning and quickly unclogged the pipe (tree roots). I expected a substantial increase in price from 24 years ago, however, the charge was very reasonable. I so appreciate their fast, efficient, reasonably priced service. — Susan, no town

ANSWER: Well, I’m impressed! This recommendation was just popped into the Rolodex. I hope the reader who recently wrote in about her wet basement sees it. The number is 782-4708.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m looking for a person to do masonry work for me, including brick chimney repointing. I’ve called contractors you’ve recommended in the past but they are booked up. Can you ask readers to give more recommendations? — Ginny, Litchfield

ANSWER: I, too, have struggled with finding a mason. Readers, do you have one to recommend? Recently this letter arrived as a response to a reader who needed work done on a concrete patio.

“I currently work for a masonry company and am trying to gain experience through masonry restoration work that includes chimney and foundation restoration (brick, block or stone), and concrete patchwork/repointing on walkways and stairways. I will always evaluate the project beforehand and honestly let you know if it’s something I can accomplish. I’m a very hard worker, outgoing, and dedicated to this work. You won’t be disappointed. Call Zachary Wilson at 754 1341. Please leave a voicemail and I’ll get back to you.”

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The books I liked growing up were the Uncle Wiggily books. I had the complete set. Thank you for all you do for all of us. — No name, no town

ANSWER: Do you know you can still get these? Uncle Wiggily Longears is the main character of a series of children’s stories by American author Howard R. Garis who began writing the stories for the Newark News in 1910. Garis penned an Uncle Wiggily story every day for more than 52 years, and published 79 books in his lifetime.

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.