DEAR SUN SPOTS: The High Street Food Pantry has ongoing needs for the following items: peanut butter, toilet paper, pasta sauce, canned meats, baking items (mixes, sugar, flour, etc.), and soup.

Thank you for supporting this mission and helping local people meet their most basic needs. Please drop off your donations at the Auburn United Methodist Church at 439 Park Ave. in Auburn or contact the church office at 782-3972. —  George, Auburn

ANSWER: Things are extra tough right now so I encourage everyone who runs a food pantry or soup kitchen to reach out to me with their needs and I will be sure to publish them on a regular basis.

Sun Spotters, if you have the means to help others, even if it’s just a little bit, I urge you to do so. If we stick together and pay attention to what’s going on in our own neighborhoods, we really can make the world a better place.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’ve noticed that you sometimes write about plant advice. I have a peace lily and no matter what I do, the tips of the leaves turn brown. I don’t think I’m overwatering or underwatering, and it doesn’t look like a fungus. I have also tried moving this rather large houseplant away from the window so the sun isn’t shining directly on it. Can you help? — Lorraine, no town

ANSWER: If you have municipal water or treat your well water with softening agents, your peace lily may not like it. Try using distilled water or catching rainwater in a bucket to give your plant a nice healthy drink.

Also try cutting off any leaves with brown tips and wait to see if the new leaves also turn brown after you start this new protocol. I urge you to contact a garden center in your area to get their expert opinion. You may be able to simply send them a photo so they can give you clear instructions to solve the issue.

A peace lily is a beautiful plant that is also good for indoor air quality. They are excellent air purifiers, known to remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide, and trichloroethylene from the air. NASA’s Clean Air Study highlighted their effectiveness in this regard. Additionally, they help increase humidity and can reduce mold spores in the air. You definitely want to keep it in good condition and possibly purchase a few more. Keep in mind, though, that this plant is toxic to pets if ingested.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I would love it if you included more recipes in Sun Spots. I have saved the ones you have printed in the past and also have some to share. — Maureen, Lewiston

ANSWER: I’m up for that. Sun Spotters, feel free to share your recipes. If they’re handwritten, please print them and include your phone number so if I have any questions, I can contact you.

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].