DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am a part of the Sunnyside Neighborhood Association located in Lewiston. Our mission is to keep our community united to discourage vandalism and crime from growing in our area. Hopefully, if people see what one small area can do, then they will follow.

We have been working together on cleanups and putting “watch children” signs up. Our biggest project was a playground for our children. Since this was a huge feat, we would like to involve more people by throwing a party to celebrate this achievement.

We are planning a picnic in our new Sunnyside Park on July 24. Many local groups and businesses have donated toward this effort.

Sam’s Italian Sandwich Shop has donated some sandwiches and offered a reduced rate on more. Utz has donated potato chips, and Burger King has donated paper cups, while Bates College is providing a sheet cake.

Hannaford in Lewiston has offered $25 in goods, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers chapter 567 has donated tables and chairs. We are putting in an application for help from the Police Athletic League on Monday, and we also may have a donation of a Porta-Potty.

We have many people on board for this event but are in need of more help. Currently, we are in need of paper plates, ice and coolers for drinks, as well as donations for more food and drinks.

We anticipate a large crowd for this event and want everyone to be able to have a good time and to create the best possible party we can.

I can be reached at 783-1134 or by e-mail at Halltracie@aol.com. We are a Yahoo group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sunnyside_neighborhood/) and on Facebook.

I and the other organizers would greatly appreciate any or all you can do to show your support. Thank you.— Tracie Hall, Lewiston

ANSWER: Your group’s effort at improving your neighborhood are to be much admired. Just imagine what Lewiston could be like if every neighborhood in town had a group like yours.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: After two years, it doesn’t seem likely that Crystal Lavoie will reopen Autumn Day Spa. I wonder if she would be interested in giving out any products that she may have left after closing the spa?

I for one would not mind getting products; it would be better than sitting here with a gift certificate that now has no value. I know that a great deal of time has gone by, but it never hurts to ask. Thank you for your time. I always enjoy reading your column. — Joline Lajoie, Lewiston, 783-6102

ANSWER: Sun Spots suspects that most of those products were returned to the distributor or manufacturer when she closed the business, but perhaps she had some odds or ends left over and will contact you.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: If anyone knows how to get in touch with Paul Mercier who worked at Carroll’s Music Store in Lewiston, please contact me. I am having a problem with my organ. Paul has helped me out whenever need be on this organ. Thank you! — Betty Calden, Jay, 897-4056

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 e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.