DEAR SUN SPOTS: Delta Kappa Gamma, local Mu Chapter, an international society of retired and current women educators, is providing our Recruitment Grant, a $1,000 scholarship awarded to a high school senior enrolled in a school of higher education and planning to become a teacher. 

This year’s scholarship is available to a student from a school in the central Maine area. Priority will be given to children and grandchildren of Delta Kappa Gamma members. 

Applications can be acquired at area school guidance offices or email a request to [email protected]. The student must mail the completed application to the address (on the application) by April 17, 2026. — No name, Auburn

ANSWER: It’s the season when graduating seniors are seeking funds for their continuing education. Students, searching for these opportunities can take some time and energy, but it’s always worth it. There are funds to be had at the local level to assist with meeting expenses while forging into the future. Seek organizations that would be a good match for the needs and/or degree. There are nonprofits, businesses, and individuals who are willing and able to financially support people’s dreams. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: There are only a few days left to participate in Shaw’s Supermarket’s Give Back Where It Counts Reusable Bag Program, benefiting the Woman’s Literary Union. The Shaw’s Reusable Bag Program makes it easy for shoppers to contribute to their local communities.

When a $3 reusable Give Back Bag is purchased at Shaw’s at 27 East Ave. in Lewiston for the month of February, $1 is donated to the Woman’s Literary Union. — No name, Auburn

ANSWER: The WLU, at 19 Elm St. in Auburn, has wonderful, unique ways in which its members support the community. This winter there is a monthly book club meetings and a monthly game afternoon, and in the spring there is the big prom gown giveaway. A tea tasting, Christmas gathering, and more are hosted by WLU, too.

The organization also awards a scholarship to a graduating senior from a high school in Androscoggin County who intends to pursue studies in the arts or literature. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: This past Sunday, I found a human Sun Spot and I want to share my encounter with you. I was shopping in TJ Maxx and came upon a young girl in the beauty products section. She was a vision, wearing a gorgeous summer dress and loads of jewelry. When I complimented her, she gave me the biggest smile and explained that she decided when she woke up that morning that she “was just going to go out and be colorful.” She truly was a ray of sunshine and really made my day. I’ll always remember her and now I feel truly inspired to be more colorful myself. I think we should all give it a whirl. — Kat, no town

ANSWER: I agree. Encounters like this give me hope. I’ve also been so inspired by the outstanding performance that ice skating Gold Medalist Alysa Liu mesmerized us all with during this year’s Olympics — another young person wowing us with her own personal sparkle and verve. Let’s all do our best to shine brighter. 

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 [email protected].