RESPONSE: In case it helps more of our readers, on July 14 Sun Spots published this information in response to a query about when to expect a tax refund after an identity theft incident: CNN’s Money segment has reported on the subject of tax fraud: “If you’re a tax fraud victim, the IRS freezes your […]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I recently heard the term Cursillo in regards to a Christian movement and was hoping you could find out what it is. Thank you. — No Name, No Town. ANSWER: Sun Spots recently saw the term Cursillo for the first time, too, and like you, wondered what the term meant. From the […]

ANSWER: Your question is too vague. There are many variables to be taken into account. Are you talking about gasoline at the pump? Heating oil delivered? Both? In general, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration: “In the petroleum industry, like most others, the majority of all products sold changes hands a number of times […]

EASY PICKLES 7 cups cukes (3 long green European cukes), sliced thin (I used a mandoline slicer) 1 med.-large onion, sliced thin (on mandoline) 1 med. green pepper, cut up 1 cup vinegar (I use red) 1-3/4 cup sugar 2 Tbsp. celery salt Put sugar and celery salt in vinegar and mix. Pour over vegetable […]

“We” are Heritage Collectibles, an art and antiques shop at 189 Main Street in Lewiston, and a sponsor of the Balloon Festival. We aren’t in a position to pay but can give you 10 entries into the contest we’re running for a pair of tickets to be given away for a balloon ride! Contact Linda […]

ANSWER: In addition to replies you may get from readers, Sun Spots suggests you check with local animal shelters to see if there is a Maltese dog waiting to be adopted. DEAR SUN SPOTS: What are the special-shape balloons at this year’s Great Falls Balloon Festival and where do they come from? Thanks. — Balloon […]

Funds raised allow the church to open its doors to groups like AA, Girl Scouts, Free Supper, Christmastide Concerts and Children’s Theater. The rain-or-shine sale, now under 11 tents, will fill the entire church parking lot to overflowing. The church is actively seeking community volunteers to assist with set up on Thursday morning, Aug. 20 […]

We are seeking donations for the silent auction that will be part of this event. We will even pick up donated items. Call us at 207-783-7039. The fun starts at 3 p.m. with stuff like a dunk tank featuring local celebrities Jonathan LaBonte and Matt Leonard, a walk-around magician, photo booth, golf chipping game and […]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding divorce, can you tell me what irreconcilable marital differences means? Thanks. — No Name, No Town. ANSWER: When someone files for divorce in Maine, that person must declare the grounds upon which the divorce is being sought. Maine revised statutes shows Title 19-A: Domestic Relations, Part 2: Married Persons, Chapter 29: […]

ANSWER: Various sources suggest that the birds are taking apart your screen and using the screen material to build their nests. To deter them from returning, you can hang Mylar balloons near the windows, pinwheels or scarecrows. Some have suggested making a bird silhouette and applying that to the window. Those are usually used to […]