DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Lewiston Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy is offering a unique opportunity to provide an inside look at the day-to-day operations of the department. Participants can engage with the department and be informed of the services they provide, discuss current issues taking place both within Lewiston and the surrounding areas, and to ask questions related to law enforcement as classroom time allows. The classes are also an opportunity for the department to learn about the concerns of its community members. This is not a police officer training school or an open forum to discuss previous law enforcement contacts or grievances.

The 10-week program will meet every Wednesday at the department at 171 Park St. starting Jan. 30 and ending on April 3. Classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., with two classes taking place off-site. Participants are expected to arrange their own transportation to these off-site classes.

Class size is limited to 30 people with preference given to Lewiston residents. Only those able to make a full commitment to the class should apply. An 80 percent attendance rate is required to successfully complete the Citizens Police Academy and to receive a certificate of completion.

A background check is conducted on all applicants. Those with felony convictions or extensive criminal backgrounds will not be accepted.

All applicants should be at least 18 years old however; exceptions can be made with parental permission.

Applications are available in the Police Department’s lobby and should be completed by Jan. 24 and dropped off at the department or emailed to Officer Joe Philippon at jphilippon@lewistonmaine.gov or call 207-513-3010. He can also be contacted with questions.

— Joe, Lewiston

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am writing to request a recipe for Peanut Butter Bread. I had a recipe that was cut out from the Portland Press Herald many years ago that called for approximately a cup of peanut butter. I have lost the recipe and don’t have a computer. The bread was delicious, especially warm from the oven! Can Sun Spots or a reader help?

— David, Poland

ANSWER: Whenever there is a question about food, I am all over it! This unusual bread does sound yummy. I’m going to make some and add swirls of my strawberry jam!

To make Peanut Butter Bread, preheat oven to 350 degrees and butter a loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, beat together with an electric mixer, 1 cup peanut butter (not natural) and 1/3 cup each white sugar and brown sugar until combined. Beat in two eggs. Add 3/4 cup milk, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Gradually add 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, mixing with a wooden spoon until just combined.

Spoon the batter into buttered loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center of the bread comes out clean. It is recommended to check the bread 10-15 minutes before the timer goes off. If the top of the bread is browning too much, tent the loaf with foil and continue baking until the bread is cooked through. Allow the loaf to cool before removing from pan.

Adding 1/2 cup chocolate chips is also a suggestion for a delicious addition!

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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