DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have seen night-vision glasses advertised and wonder if they are useful, effective and worth the cost.

— No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I love it when readers get right to the point! I don’t have any personal experience with these glasses that you can wear, even over your prescription glasses, for night driving. However, my brother, who has had cataract surgery and a detached retina, swears by the ones he got directly from his eye doctor. He says he doesn’t go out at night without them.

If I were you, I’d definitely check in with your regular eye doctor. Not all night-vision glasses are created equal, and you don’t want to mess around with your eyesight or your ability to drive at night.

Meanwhile, Sun Spots readers, if you have these special specs, please share your experience with using them; the good and the bad!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have a wedding dress and a bridesmaid’s dress that are 10 years old. Is there anyone out there who may want them for a special occasion, or an organization that I could donate them to? They have only been worn once and have been cleaned and are in great shape. I can be contacted at 207-577-3276

— Joanne, Greene

ANSWER: Thank you for your generosity. I’m sure you’ll get lots of calls!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is there anyone out there who can repair a Bose CD Player? Bose no longer sells or repairs them.

— No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I spoke with Bose at 1-800-379-2073 ext. 6. The customer service representative was very helpful and wants you to please call with the serial number on your player and explain the issue. If there is any way for them to help you, they certainly will. Bose does still sell and repair some models.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The United Methodist Church of Auburn is collecting warm winter clothing for needy families in the community. Jackets, coats, boots, sturdy shoes, hats, and mittens and gloves for all ages, as well as warm blankets are needed. All donations must be clean and in good condition.

Also, The High Street Food Pantry has an ongoing need for the following items: peanut butter, canned vegetables, soup, canned pasta such as spaghetti, ravioli and SpaghettiOs, canned meats, canned fruit, dry cereal, baking items such as mixes, sugar and flour, crackers, toilet paper, and gently-used children’s books.

Please drop off all donations at the church at 439 Park Ave. in Auburn or call the church office at 207-782-3972. Thank you for supporting this mission and helping local people meet their most basic needs.

— George, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Because I have pets, I don’t like to use store-bought de-icing products on my steps and walkway. It gets caught in their paws and I’m worried it will make them sick. Are there any other solutions?

— No name, no town

ANSWER: One thing I can think of is baking soda. Pick up a few boxes at the Dollar Store and try it out for traction and to melt the ice. You can also mix it with sand if you need something more substantial. Readers, any other suggestions?

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.