Dear Sun Spots: My name is Lisa Beaulieu, my daughter Emily (who is 6) was featured on the front page of the Sun Journal on Saturday, Jan. 7. Emily’s birthday wish is to collect as many toys as possible for Catholic Charities, which gives toys to kids of house fires. Emily will not be receiving any gifts for herself this year, but has decided to instead donate everything to this charity and is trying to get as many people as possible to join her. I wanted to make sure that all of your readers know how they can help Emily’s birthday wish come true. They may drop off a toy for kids of any age from now until Jan. 22 (Emily’s birthday) at the Book Burrow at 593 Center St. in Auburn next to Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill, and also at KB Toys in the Auburn Mall. Just let them know that it’s for Emily’s birthday wish. Our e-mail address is smarrtkids@wmconnect.com should anyone have any questions or comments they’d like to share. Thank you! – Lisa, No Town.

Dear Sun Spots: I was wondering if there are any cloggers in the Lewiston/Auburn area who need a new member? I have lost 80 pounds and need to find something for exercise to keep losing and to stay fit. Also are there any voice lessons given in the area? I would like to get lessons to enhance my voice. I would then volunteer at nursing homes and schools for the practice. – Christine Peterson, Mechanic Falls.

Answer: Many congratulations on your weight loss, Christine! Way to go, especially during the holiday season which can be tough to even maintain weight.

Regarding your first question, you might like to check in with the local hospitals to see what classes they’re offering, or your local adult education departments. Sun Spots noted a class on ballroom basics being taught by Diane Williams at Lewiston Adult Education and including learning the basic steps of the fox trot, waltz, swing, cha-cha, rhumba, tango and polka. Williams also offers a class in beyond ballroom Basics to help you quicken your steps and polish your moves. And if you’re not into ballroom, perhaps hip hop will grab your fancy. You will learn up to three easy hip hop dances using dance steps from today and get a great cardio workout.

There’s also jump & jive dance classes where you can learn to Charleston, jitterbug, and Lindy Hop. This fast-paced hour will get you moving and having fun. Couples and singles welcome.

Line dancing is another option to keep you in your exercise routine.

Check to see which classes require a partner just in case you have any friends that would like to join you. For more information check them out online at www.lewiston.k12.me.us/cgi-bin/lae/lae_courses.php?q=all or at 156 East Ave., Lewiston, ME 04240, (207) 795-4141. Please note registration has already begun. The semester begins Jan. 23.

And regarding voice lessons, Sun Spots would recommend you contact Carroll’s School and Music Center in Lewiston, (207) 782-2545. In addition, raise your voice! is a class being offered at Lewiston Adult Education. The LAE Community Chorus will offer the choral experience to vocalists at all levels, with emphasis on individual musicianship. Work on three pieces of music to refine your vocal technique, understand basic music theory, and ear training. A performance for family and friends will be the culmination of all your hard work!

Also, Sun Spots notes that Valerie Chipman is offering voice and piano lessons. You can reach her at 320-0165.

In the meantime, you might also check with any of the local colleges to see if any in their music departments are offering voice classes.

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). 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 posted at www.sunjournal.com in the Advice section under Opinion on the left-hand corner of your computer screen. In addition, you can e-mail your inquiries to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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