DEAR SUN SPOTS: We’re wondering if it’s possible to locate a cleaning lady with good references to come to our home twice a month for a couple hours each time to do general cleaning in a seven-room, two-bath house. I would be pleased to hear from someone to apply for the job in the Sabattus area. We’re also looking for a handyman to do odd jobs. — George, Sabattus
ANSWER: I would highly recommend you begin your search by contacting organizations in the Lewiston-Auburn area who have professional listings for these types of services. Western Maine Community Action at 860-4461 and SeniorsPlus at 795-4010 should be able to connect you with appropriate resources. Getting recommendations from friends and family members, as well as Sun Spots readers, is a good way to go too.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding Lewiston Sanatorium, it wasn’t on Pleasant Street but on Lisbon Street past Lum’s Restaurant, up the hill in a big field. My great-aunt lived on Lisbon Street and the sanatorium was to the left of her house. I was born in 1927. We used to visit there and play at the empty house after it closed. It was a big green building with a porch all around. At one time when the sanatorium was open, I had a cousin who was a patient there and my parents would visit her. She had a bed on the porch. Many patients rested there on warm days as they needed the fresh air. We kids stayed outside and played. We were not allowed inside, not even on the porch. My cousin was cured, left the sanatorium, and lived to be 80. I could write a book but I’ll spare your readers. I’m 90-plus so I remember a lot. I love my city. — Jane, Lewiston
ANSWER: This is a follow-up to the July 5 Sun Spots column. Sharing this information and memories is invaluable. Is it possible that there was more than one private sanatorium in Lewiston at this time?
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for your wonderful column! I am looking for an old “Wonder Horse” on springs. If any of your readers have one they want to part with for a reasonable price, please call me at 207-689-3021. — June, Lewiston
ANSWER: It will be fun to see if anyone still has one of these children’s toys, popular in the 1950s to ’70s in their attics. It’s similar to a rocking horse but on a frame with springs. If a vintage toy is what you’re looking for, there are several, both made of plastic or wood, on eBay in all price ranges; some are quite reasonable. Orphan Annie’s, the antique store at 96 Court St. in Auburn, may also be able to help you find one. Their number is 782-0638. New models, in the $150 price range, are kicking up their hooves all over the place online and in the big-box stores too.
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