DEAR SUN SPOTS: We have all heard of the Little Free Libraries. We at the Minot United Methodist Church have a Little Free Cupboard. Do you know someone who needs a little help? Warm socks? A scarf? Some food? Please help yourself! 

Come into our parking lot at 142 Minot Ave. and look for the Little Free Cupboard at the end of the ramp. It’s there for our neighbors and anyone who needs a “little something.” — Steve, Minot

ANSWER: I love this idea so much and am going to share it with my church! I’m sure your community members appreciate this. Let’s see how many cupboards pop up around the state! Thank you for sharing. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: We live in a senior apartment complex and share the washer and dryer with other tenants. 

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to remove pet hair that is left on the rubber seals on a washer? Yes, it’s the person who used the washer last who is responsible, but some tenants don’t clean their pet’s hair out of the washer after they use it. 

The pet hair sticks to the rubber door seals and if a tenant doesn’t clean the hair out, we have to do it so it doesn’t get on our clothes, and it’s a difficult job. I have contacted two washer companies and all they say is to blot the seals with packing tape to pull the hair off. — Fred, no town

ANSWER: I asked for my son’s advice on this one as he lives in an apartment building and shares the laundry room with others. He has two cats and reports he’s always diligent about cleaning the washer and dryer, including the rubber gaskets you mention, after he uses the facilities. He uses a damp microfiber cloth and sometimes a toothbrush to attack the crevices if needed. 

Have you tried posting a polite sign above the washer specifically requesting that fellow tenants clean the appliances after each use, paying special attention to not leaving pet fur behind? 

I know you are tired of this, but perhaps you could use some humor and add acute graphic to the sign. And are there any opportunities for tenant meetings where you have the opportunity to discuss issues and collaborate with solutions? 

Living in close proximity to others can be challenging, but respectful communication can be helpful. I agree that you shouldn’t have to clean up after others. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding the disappearing island ( Jan. 25 Sun Spots), I don’t have solid evidence of this, but my understanding is that this island was removed to prevent seagulls, cormorants, and other birds from roosting in the trees there and contaminating the water with their droppings. I would love to know if this is true. — Loring, no town

ANSWER: That’s interesting. I don’t know how birds can be stopped from using the lake as their bathroom, island or not. Wouldn’t they also be roosting in trees along the shore, and aren’t there other tree-covered islands in Lake Auburn? It’s all very curious. Let’s see what we can find out from the watershed protection commission, and let’s keep the conversation going! 

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