DEAR SUN SPOTS: We are recruiting more volunteers at the Pleasant St. Drop-in Center so it can stay open for more hours. If you have a heart for helping and giving in your community, this is the place for you. We need help on Sundays with the hours split into two shifts: 7:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

On Wednesdays the center is open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. so folks can meet with case managers and other providers. Volunteers can help fill bags with toiletries and other necessities, greet people and monitor the lobby, and socialize with guests.

With the seasons changing, we also need bug spray, sunscreen and calamine lotion. And we always need tarps, sleeping bags, backpacks, COVID tests and underwear for all genders. — No name, Auburn

ANSWER: Let’s keep these needs in mind as we do our shopping. Picking up a few extra items to drop off at The Center will help folks in need. The address is First Universalist Church, 169 Pleasant St., Auburn.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have three empty maple syrup jugs: one gallon jug and two pint jugs. I checked with local maple businesses and they explained why the jugs could not be reused by them so I thought perhaps an individual who boils down their own syrup may have a use for them. It seems like such a waste to throw them in the recycling bins.

Anyone who wishes to arrange to pick them up can call 576-1956. Please leave a clear message as your call will go straight to voicemail. — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I have had these thoughts myself and don’t like tossing these sturdy receptacles away either. I attempt to only buy maple syrup in glass bottles or jars but that isn’t always possible. As an aside, did you know that syrup stored in glass also lasts longer?

Like lots of plastic vessels we encounter in our daily lives, these jugs could be used at home to store miscellaneous things. And if you have a one-gallon jug of syrup and want to pour some into the smaller pint containers for easier handling, be sure to wash the smaller jugs thoroughly with hot water or put them through the dishwasher (it’s recommended that soap/detergent not be used as your syrup might pick up soapy residue).

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Walkabouts would like to express our appreciation to the lovely lady in pink who took our photo at Longhorn Steakhouse on March 21. You delighted our birthday friend by paying for her lunch and left us dumbfounded by paying for everyone else’s lunch as well!

Your generosity was so appreciated and may your kindness be reciprocated many times over. — Marguerite, Lewiston

ANSWER: Your letter made my day! What a fabulous surprise for you all. I’m also pleased that The Walkabouts are alive and well and doing their weekly walking and occasional hiking.

Back in 2018, this group had a little news spot about them and their name stuck with me. To read it, go here: https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/207/one-step-at-a-time-walkabout/97-575972705

In a nutshell, this is a group of women who have become friends and walk and hike together. After seeing the video clip, perhaps you’ll be inspired to start your own walking group!

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.