DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have an exchange student living with me, and I need to find a source of fresh halal-certified meat. I have tried shops in Lewiston but have only found frozen meat. Are there any locations nearby that sell fresh halal meat? — David, Auburn

ANSWER: Have you inquired at H & H Halal in Lewiston? Also check with Market Basket in Topsham (I’ve seen halal-certified chicken there), and with Hannaford. It’s possible that if any of these places don’t have fresh halal meat in stock, they could order it for you.  

If you want to take your exchange student for a nice drive, you could go to Five Pillars Butchery in Unity. This establishment is a local Muslim family-owned business providing regional halal-certified meats from their farm and other local farms. They can be reached at 323-0214 or look them up at https://www.fivepillarsbutchery.com/. 

Readers, please let us know about other options. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The United Methodist Church of Auburn, 439 Park Ave., will hold its Bean Supper on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 5 p.m.

The menu includes baked beans, casseroles, hot dogs, coleslaw, breads, beverages and homemade pies.

We will also hold a silent auction. Musical entertainment beginning at 4:30 p.m. will be provided by the Park Avenue Pickers. 

For additional information, please contact the church office at 782-3972. — Steve, Minot

ANSWER: I’m not sure what I like best — an autumn bean supper, or a winter bean supper. We have many to look forward to. I invite you to take part in this old-time Maine tradition whenever you get the chance! 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Franco Center will host a festive Homecoming Dance on Friday, Nov. 8, complete with music, dancing and a community coat drive. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with a happy hour until 7 p.m., when the dance officially begins.

Guests are encouraged to bring new or gently used winter coats to donate and will receive a $1 off coupon for the concessions table. All coats collected will be given to Kaydenz Kitchen Food Pantry, a local nonprofit organization that provides free food and clothing to unhoused individuals and families in need.

“Our Homecoming Dance is a chance to bring the community together for a night of fun while also helping neighbors who need warm clothing for the winter,” said Theresa Shanahan, Franco Center executive director.

The evening will feature music by DJ Brothers, dancing, and a lively atmosphere in the center’s historic performance hall. Concessions and drinks will be available for purchase.

The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St. in Lewiston. Parking is available in the mill lot across the street, the lot on the corner of Lincoln and Cedar streets, and in Chestnut Street parking garage.

Buy your tickets now at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=298086. For more information, visit francocenter.org or call 689-2000. Advance tickets are $25 (before 5 p.m. on Nov. 8 or buy them the night of the event at the door for $30. — No name, no town

ANSWER: This sounds absolutely wonderful and is for a good cause. Be sure to invite your friends! 

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