DEAR SUN SPOTS: We’re excited to share that Shaw’s has selected the Woman’s Literary Union of Auburn to benefit from the Give Back Where It Counts Reusable Bag Program, happening throughout February. The program makes it easy for shoppers to contribute to their local communities.

Every time a $3 reusable Give Back Bag is purchased at Shaw’s at 27 East Ave. in Lewiston during February, $1 will be donated to the WLU. This is a great way to broaden awareness of our mission and help our cause. — Kathy, Auburn

ANSWER: I’m very fond of the WLU and all the wonderful, unique ways in which its members support the community. The Foss Mansion is at 19 Elm St. in Auburn. This winter there is a monthly book club, a monthly game afternoon, and in the spring there is the big prom gown giveaway. Tea tasting, a Christmas gathering, and more are hosted by WLU, too.

Furthermore, each year, the Woman’s Literary Union awards a scholarship to a graduating senior from a high school in Androscoggin County who intends to pursue studies in the arts or literature. 

The elegant Foss Mansion can be rented for weddings, showers and other parties at a reasonable rate. Get all the information at https://www.womansliteraryunion.org/. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding the recent letters about the island in Lake Auburn, when I was on the City Council, a constituent asked about putting a sign on the island because it is not terribly visible since the trees on it were cut down. He was concerned about it being a navigation hazard because it is a small, shallow, rocky area in otherwise deep water. 

I talked with Mike Broadbent, who indicated Auburn Water District had the same concerns, but Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife governs signs on lakes and it might be hard to get one posted. 

In any event, the island is still there! I believe the trees were removed because they attracted birds, especially gulls, which are a nuisance and not good to have in any numbers on a water supply. — Rick, Auburn

ANSWER: Thank you so much for this clarification, Rick. Sun Spotters always come through for me and the other readers. This letter about a small island in Lake Auburn is in response to letters published in Sun Spots on Jan. 25 and 27. 

I’m still wondering how all the birds can be prevented from sullying lakes and other waterways. And as someone who kayaks and goes canoeing all over Maine, I have been hung up on rocks just below the surface. Rather than a sign, couldn’t there be a regulatory safety/hazard buoy placed to mark this rocky area? Perhaps there’s already one there. Please send me a note if you have any more details about this “disappearing island.” 

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].