DEAR SUN SPOTS: Would there be anyone in the local area who repairs EdenPURE heaters? — Jerry, no town.

ANSWER: If you have the model number you can locate the closest service center by using EdenPURE’s service website, www.edenpureservice.com. From the home page, click the “heaters” drop-down list and click the appropriate model. Type the ZIP code into the box and press search to view a list of authorized service centers. If there are no service centers within a reasonable distance, you can fill out a service request form right on the website.

You may be limited to buying parts from the online service center and then find a handyman to tackle the job for you. If any readers know of a local repair person for EdenPURE or similar electric heaters, please inform Sun Spots.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Senior Companion Program is looking for caring people in the Farmington-Wilton and Rumford-Mexico areas. Senior companions spend time making the day brighter for homebound and isolated elderly people. If you are 55 years or older and on a fixed income you may qualify to be a companion and receive a tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement and other benefits.

The program is sponsored by the University of Maine Center on Aging and partners with SeniorsPlus, Catholic Charities SEARCH program and Clover Health Care. Please call Anna Saar at 1-800-287-1482 for more information and an application.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am wondering whether anyone in the central Maine area repairs broken ceramic objects. One is a primary school project and one is a purchased Christmas object. I could glue them, but I don’t want the mend to show, if possible. — No name, Livermore.

ANSWER: This one is up to you, readers. If anyone has this skill or knows someone, an individual or a business, who offers this service, please let Sun Spots know so the information can be shared.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Would you know if there is a way to avoid having to pay the premium tax on an annuity? The state of Maine is one of six states that charge this tax. For example, on a $100,000 annuity, 2 percent ($2,000) is taken by the state. This is over and above the income tax that has to be paid if it’s unqualified. I feel like this is being stolen by the state. — No name, no town.

ANSWER: Sun Spots is by no means a tax expert. When it comes to the more complicated aspects of your taxes and/or estate planning, it is best speak to a professional about your options. Contact a certified public accountant, financial planner or accountant. A list was recently published in Sun Spots:

• Cornerstone Wealth Planning, 79 Main St. in Auburn, can be reached by calling 207-376-3160 or email [email protected].
• Downeast Financial Group, 460 Main St. in Lewiston, can be reached by calling 207-777-5400 or email [email protected].
• Frisbie & Associates, 656 Main St. in Lewiston, can be reached by calling 207-241-7430 or email [email protected].

The full list can be viewed at tinyurl.com/zaea5ge. 

Use the QR code to go to Sun Spots online for additional information and links. 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 be emailed to [email protected], tweeted @SJ_SunSpots or posted on the Sun Spots Facebook page at facebook.com/SunJournalSunSpots. This column can also be read online at sunjournal.com/sunspots. We’ve joined Pinterest at http://pinterest.com/sj_sunspots.