DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have a couple suitcases to donate to a nonprofit that can use them. They are large and have been used once. They are just too big for me to handle anymore. — No name, no town

ANSWER: Readers, if you have donated luggage to a nonprofit in the past, let me know. Meanwhile, I suggest you contact Spurwink (1-888-889-3903) because they help foster children.

Another option is An Angel’s Wing Inc.  at 1567 Lisbon St. in Lewiston (241-0624). It is actively raising awareness as well as providing funds to help individuals suffering with Substance Use Disorder and their families.

Another nonprofit is Kaydenz Kitchen Food Pantry at 155 Lisbon St., also in Lewiston (577-7942). The thrift shop supports the food pantry that addresses hunger needs in the community.

Safe Voices in Auburn is a nonprofit that helps victims of domestic abuse. The organization is the sole provider of support services for victims of domestic violence in Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties. Call 795-6744.

Catholic Charities in Portland is another option. It helps immigrant families get settled in Maine. The number is 781-8550. Ask to speak with someone in the development office.

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DEAR SUN SPOTS: I want to purchase some local honey. My preference is to buy 5 pounds at a time if possible. Are there any beekeepers in Sun Spots Land who have some for sale? I’m also interested in getting some beeswax for use in making candles and lip balm. — Gloria, Lisbon

ANSWER: I found some contacts for you on the Maine Beekeepers website. Androscoggin Beekeepers Club: Paul Madore, paulbmadore@icloud.com; Sagadahoc County Beekeepers: Catharine Sanderson, catharine.sanderson@gmail.com;, Western Maine Beekeepers Association: westernmainebeekeepers@hotmail.com or call Al Borzelli at 388-2120.

Another chapter in our readership area is the Oxford Hills Honeybee Club. Email: members@mainehoneybees.com or call 539-4232.

Swan’s Honey (https://swanshoney.com/) is also a honey business I know of. They are in Albion and I wonder if that is local enough for you. They have an online form to email a request or you can call them at 437-2251.

Maine Street Bee (https://www.mainestreetbee.com/) in Freeport is another nearby choice. You can reach Melissa at 800-6450 or email her at melissa@mainestreetbee.com.

Readers, please let us know of any others!

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DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m looking for how to clean my stainless steel refrigerator door. No matter what I do, it always looks smudgy. — Lorraine, no town

ANSWER: I know what you mean! I found that what works best is to always use a microfiber cloth and a little dish soap in warm water. The important thing is to always wipe in the direction of the grain. Wipe off again with a clean wet cloth then dry and if you like, put a drop or two of olive oil or baby oil on another clean cloth and polish the fridge, again going in the grain’s direction.

If there are any readers who are professional house cleaners or anyone else who has advice for keeping their fridge front and other stainless steel appliances in tip-top condition, please let us know how you do it!

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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