DEAR SUN SPOTS: Years ago, in Lewiston, the sidewalk curbs were painted yellow at intersections to indicate “no parking” zones because the intersection created a blind spot for oncoming traffic. Today, many of the sidewalk intersections have been made Americans with Disabilities Act accessible by removing the curbing and creating a gradual slope for ease of crossing streets. By removing the yellow “no parking” zones, at the intersections along Pine Street (and other busy streets), many vehicles park right up to the intersections, blocking the view of any pedestrians and oncoming traffic. I believe (and I could be wrong) there was a law on the books that stated it was illegal to park within 25 feet of an intersection to prevent obstruction of a view. If this law still exists, why isn’t it being enforced before there is a serious accident? — Lifelong resident
ANSWER: According to lawlegalhub.com, it is illegal to park within a specific distance of a crosswalk in the United States. This regulation is in place to ensure pedestrian safety and to keep sightlines clear for drivers approaching the intersection. The exact distance required between a parked car and a crosswalk varies by state and municipality, but the most common distance is 20 to 30 feet. Parking too close to a crosswalk can result in fines, towing, or other penalties.
As to why this isn’t enforced in Lewiston, if in fact it isn’t, we think this issue could be better explained by your local city councilor.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Woodlawn Cemetery Association will host its annual public supper from 4:30-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the West Bowdoin Parish Hall, 54 West Road, in Bowdoin. The menu is smothered beef or roast turkey. Donation for adults is $12, children 12 and under, $6, no charge for preschoolers. — Melanie, 353-2446 or Gail, 353-2567.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Help! Someone in Sun Spots Land must have a Smith Corona PWP-3 that is no longer needed. I would pay a decent price. I am a 93-year-old vet who does not have internet. Please. Sun Spots is my first choice. Call Don R. at 207-240-1813. — Don Robitaille, Lewiston

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have several dozen kids’ books from the 1920s and 1930s. Some are series like the Bobbsey Twins and Ruth Gordon. Some are classics. They are well-used and have names and dates written in them. I would like to sell them or give them to someone who can make good use of them. Do you have any ideas? — No name, no town

ANSWER: These books would be considered treasures by children! Perhaps you could donate them to your local library. Another idea would be to offer to sell them to an antiques dealer. Sun Spots readers, any thoughts?

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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