DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Trinity Jubilee Center serves many homeless people who are trying to survive and get back to work. Donations of backpacks, steel-toed boots and small shampoos are greatly needed.
We are also searching for a volunteer to pick up a large food donation every Wednesday morning. Donations can be dropped off between 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at 53 Spruce St. in Lewiston. Volunteer inquiries can be sent to Erin or Crystal at 207-782-5700 or e-mail trinitylewiston@gmail.com. Thank you.
—Erin, Lewiston
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is there anyone in Oxford County who sells Electrolux vacuum cleaners?
—No name, West Bethel
ANSWER: If you contact Vac Shack at 485 Pleasant St. in Lewiston at 207-783-2902, the experts there will talk with you about the kind of vacuum you are looking for. My understanding is that the Electrolux brand, makers of the first-ever vacuum cleaner, is now sold as the Aerus brand in North America. When you have your conversation with the knowledgeable people at Vac Shack, they can answer all your questions.
There are Electrolux brand vacuum cleaners sold at Home Depot and Lowe’s, and on Amazon, but please talk to the experts at Vac Shack before purchasing one of these. These machines are not like the Electrolux vacuums you may have in mind.
The Aerus name is most likely what you’re looking for. The closest retailer that services the L-A area is located at 198 Western Ave. in Augusta. The store is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can call them at 207-784-4122.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: In the July 13 Sun Spots, one of your readers asked about the tattered flag seen when crossing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge. I believe the flag had been put up by a retired fireman, but that person is no longer able to change the flag. No matter the condition, I enjoy seeing that “Grand Old Flag” every time I cross the bridge!
—Mary Ann, Auburn
ANSWER: This note just goes to show that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I’d love to hear from the person who put the flag up if they are still around and would also love to see a new volunteer step up to replace the flag if needed. Let’s hear from you!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: What is the history behind the beautiful Blake-Ham House at 354 Main St. in Lewiston?
—David, Auburn
ANSWER: According to its listing in the National Registry of Historic Places, the Blake-Ham House was built in the Queen Anne style in 1885. It was designed by architect George Coombs and owned by L. L. Blake, a prominent furniture dealer. The home was passed down to Blake’s son-in-law, Orland S. Ham. From 1913 to 1981, it housed a convent.
For more information, the Androscoggin Historical Society at 2 Turner St., #8, in the County Building in Auburn may be able to assist you. Call them at 207-784-0586 or e-mail at info@androhist.org. Their hours are Wednesday – Thursday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 1 to 4 p.m.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I can’t recall any better appliance repair experience than Jones Appliance. They tamed a beast of a refrigerator/freezer that no one else cared to tackle. Their number is 207-647-4432.
—Suzy, Oxford
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