DEAR SUN SPOTS: How do I find out if there is any new low-income and/or senior housing projects in Lewiston-Auburn at this time, and who should I contact for information? — No name, no town
ANSWER: Here is a website for you to explore that has good information and links to several resources for seniors seeking housing and more: https://www.hud.gov/states/maine/homeownership/seniors.
Another online resource is https://211maine.org/. You can email, text, or talk to a person who can get your questions answered. The contact information is simply to dial 211 or to email info@211maine.org.
You can also contact the community and economic development department of each city as well as surrounding municipalities to inquire about upcoming housing construction and places that are already in the works.
For Lewiston, contact the department at 513-3126 or email them at ECDevelopment@lewistonmaine.gov. For Auburn, the number is 333.6601, ext. 1157, or email the department’s executive assistant at holivier@auburnmaine.gov.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Here is some information for your Rolodex and your readers regarding the request for information about Riverside Flea Market (May 4 Sun Spots) on Lisbon Street in Lisbon. The flea market opened April 1 and will be open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tables are $6 on Fridays and $10 on Saturdays and $10 on Sundays. Please call 353-2420 for table reservations and any questions.
Being a regular there, I know that reservations are recommended, especially for Saturdays, because the spots fill fast! — No name, no town
ANSWER: Ask and you shall receive! Thank you for sharing this information. I drove by the flea market just last Saturday and it looked lively!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Fri., June 24 is an important day for Francophones and Quebec as it is St. John the Baptist Day or in French: Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste. France was one of the first countries to celebrate this holiday, and this tradition followed the first settlers in Canada. As explained in the Jesuit Relations, the first celebration took place on the banks of the St. Lawrence River on the evening of June 23, 1636, with a bonfire and five cannon shots. This festival became an integral part of French-Canadian culture.
The Franco Center is seeking photos and artifacts of St. Jean Baptist parades and celebrations held in Lewiston-Auburn as far back as they have been celebrated. We will display these items at the Franco Center. For more information, call 333-3251 or email dscammon@francocenter.org. –Denise, no town
ANSWER: I’m curious to know if Sun Spotters are responding to this request from the Franco Center. I certainly hope so. I’m looking forward to viewing the display and learning more.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m having an ant problem and want to get rid of them “naturally”. Do readers have any ideas?—Patty, no town
ANSWER: Give your kitchen a thorough cleaning then wipe down all surfaces with one part white vinegar mixed with one part water. Ants are also repelled by coffee grounds and spices, herbs, and essential oils such as cinnamon, mint, bay leaves, and lavender.
Diatomaceous earth is another option. This can be purchased at the garden center or hardware store and sprinkled along the baseboards inside and the perimeter of your home outside.
This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.
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