DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have a question about the removal of the traffic light at the intersection of Park Avenue and Mount Auburn Avenue. The light eliminated some of the traffic problems at that location. One week it was there and now it is gone.—Nancy, Mechanic Falls

ANSWER: This question was answered back in November, but I am happy to let you know that when I spoke with a helpful gentleman in Auburn’s Public Works Department, he explained the traffic light you and other readers liked was only temporary to help with the flow of traffic and the detour while the Maine Department of Transportation’s bridge replacement project on Hotel Road was under construction.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have recently received (as a donation) a few utilitarian lap quilts that could be used by wheelchair-bound people for warmth during the cold winter months. I called a nursing home and its washing machines cannot handle the quilts.

If anyone is interested, please contact me at nancylpetersons@gmail.com for more information. First come, first served. Thank you for your continued good work for the community.—Nancy, Mechanic Falls

ANSWER: I have big thick quilts, too, and simply take them to the laundromat to a bigger washing machine periodically. Surely, someone can use the ones you were given. Let us know what happens, Nancy.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: This is in reply to Alicia from Lisbon (Jan. 6 Sun Spots), inquiring about reputable Subaru mechanics. I have been going to Specialty Automotive at 45 North River Road for 30 years. Bob specializes in Subarus, but also works on other vehicles. He came recommended by a friend of mine. He has always been very helpful and accommodating to my schedule. Give him a call at 207-782-1314. I hope this can help.–Dee, Auburn

ANSWER: Thank you for the recommendation.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am responding to a recent inquiry about environmentally responsible products. I use TruEarth laundry detergent bio sheets. TruEarth uses small sheets of compressed detergent to toss into your washing machine. There is no large jug to carry and dispose of in the landfill.

Responsible Products has Ziplock storage/sandwich bags that decompose quickly. The only drawback to this product is they are not clear but they are reasonably priced.—Janet, Augusta

ANSWER: I started using similar biodegradable laundry detergent sheets recently. I order Earth Breeze brand online — www.earthbreeze.com — and the product arrives in a compostable envelope and the shipping is free. You can sample the product for free. What a great improvement.

Another product I like takes the place of plastic wrap, which I hate. EcologieLiving — www.ecologieliving.com — makes reusable beeswax wraps. These can be washed by hand, come in small, medium and large and can be used indefinitely.

The company also makes compostable Swedish sponge cloths that replace paper towels and sponges and can be cleaned in the washing machine or dishwasher. There are also multiple places to get other brands of these cloths.

Readers, please send any tips and tricks you use to support the planet. Let’s all do our part.

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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