DEAR SUN SPOTS: I put an ad in your column about a month ago about a lawn chair that would lay down straight. You responded with the name and contact information of a man in Lewiston who had one. The next day I went to see him and he had just what I wanted. He was so nice and friendly and gave me the lawn chair for nothing. I want to say a very nice thank-you to him. I’m very happy with my chair. He’ll know who I am. — No name, no town
ANSWER: This is a perfect example of how Sun Spots works, dear readers. I strive to connect people with answers and with each other. I care about providing resources and information that make your lives not only easier, but more joyful, too. Finding something as lovely as a nice lawn chair to stretch out in on a summer afternoon can certainly make life better. I hope all of you will find a way to be the “Sun Spot” in someone’s day.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: This is in response to someone looking for someone to do tree trimming in the June 25 Sun Spots column. I would advise being very explicit about what you want done and what kind of cleanup you expect. I contacted someone to do some trimming last year. He showed up to give me an estimate, but never came to do the work. This year, I contacted someone to cut some small trees and grind up the stumps. He did the work in two trips, leaving a cut tree and big holes in the yard for more than a week. The tree holes were never filled in and when I got the bill it said “no cleanup” which had never been discussed. I assumed cleanup was part of the job. — No name, no town
ANSWER: I’ve learned over the years that it’s best to never assume anything! Whenever possible, get references and/or recommendations for any kind of contract work and be very explicit with what you expect. I make a written list of questions so I don’t forget anything. Don’t be shy about asking for details and telling a contractor what you need. Remember, they are working for you and you are paying them for a service. It takes both parties to make the working relationship the very best it can be. Be sure to do your part and ensure you have a clear understanding of what will transpire before the job is started.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: We haven’t seen Cory Froomkin, the weatherman on WCSH 6. What’s happened? — No name, no town
ANSWER: Cory is on WSCH Newscenter Maine’s Morning Report. He also has a new segment, “FoodieFroomkin.” It’s very fun!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: When did Jerry Reed die? He was a country singer, plus a truck driver in the movie “Smokey and the Bandit.” — Jan, Peru
ANSWER: Jerry Reed Hubbard, known professionally as Jerry Reed, an American country music singer, guitarist and songwriter, was also known as an actor who appeared in more than a dozen films. He died from emphysema in the fall of 2008 at the age of 71.
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