DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding all the input you’ve received from readers about browntail moth caterpillars, by now the caterpillars have turned into moths so the panic should be over for another year. Our Lewiston Auburn Tree Board will conduct a training session on insects in the next year, most likely next spring, and browntail moth caterpillars will be the primary focus. — Steve, city arborist/traffic supervisor, Public Works, Lewiston
ANSWER: My suggestion to all of you with concerns about browntail caterpillar outbreaks in the L/A area is to respectfully write up your concerns regarding this subject and send them by email or letter to your municipality while this year’s issues are still fresh in your mind. In this way, you can be proactive and contribute to finding solutions. Noting the public areas where you have seen caterpillar infestations will be helpful as will educating yourselves on what to do if you have an infestation on your own property. Taking these positive actions will go a long way in tamping down the number of caterpillars the state has been dealing with. Go to the maine.gov website for more information.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I thought Lucille of Minot (July 5 Sun Spots) would enjoy making the following recipe. It’s not Elderberry Sour Cream Pie, but it’s similar.
Sour Cream Rhubarb Pie: In a large bowl, mix 2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb, 1 cup (or less) sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 cup sour cream, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla. Spoon into an unbaked 9-inch pie crust.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove pie from oven and spread a mixture of 1/4 to ½ cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup flour, and 1/4 cup softened butter evenly over the top of the pie. Bake another 20-25 minutes. Allow to cool. 8 servings.
This pie is easy and delicious and is best when served chilled. — David, Poland Springs
ANSWER: This sounds marvelous! I’m going to give it a whirl.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for recommending our handyman services in the July 2 Sun Spots. We really appreciate all the support and are grateful to those who have called us inquiring about our services. Unfortunately, we can’t take on any new clients in the Lewiston-Auburn area now because we are booked into the fall season. We regret having to disappoint people who need our help, but we also don’t want to overschedule our staff members.
We will let Sun Spots readers know when we can take on new clients, but it most likely won’t be until late fall. — Alex, Small Jobs Jim, no town
ANSWER: I have discovered that so many tradespeople are extremely busy and I want to give them a shoutout for all the work they do.
If any readers have recommendations, please write in.
I also want to add that if you know of a young person who is seeking a vocation, the trades are really in need so please encourage them to check it out. Training, grants, scholarships and support are available.
I can proudly say that my grandson went into the family plumbing business and not only is he making a good solid living, but he is enjoying the work and is in demand.
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