DEAR SUN SPOTS: We are deeply grateful to everyone for joining us this past Wednesday, Aug. 6, for our event “Becoming Gather to Grow.”

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone whose efforts and contributions helped make the evening truly special:

Haali’s Halaal team for partnering with us to provide an incredibly beautiful and nourishing meal; youth participating in our Gateway to Opportunity crew; and fellows from Gather to Grow for supporting almost every facet of the event from food preparation, to decoration, to setup and breakdown.

We’d also like to thank Partners LA Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, LA Arts, and the Lewiston Recreation Department for providing needed equipment and supplies; Emilia Dahlin for steadfast planning along with emcee and sound support; and the staff for bringing their full selves to this event and the work every day.

For those in our community who were unable to attend in person, we felt you there in spirit.

As we all navigate these uncertain times — with hard endings and brave beginnings all around us — we are strengthened by the connectedness, resilience and inspiration from our time together.

This feeling carries us as we get back to the work, at a moment that calls for immense courage, focus and collaboration. We hope it can carry you too.

If you weren’t able to join our event but would still like to support Gather to Grow, please visit our donation page at https://givebutter.com/gathertogrow?gbtid=c27a02a58bbc430bbef8618bb1129497. — In gratitude and solidarity, The Gather to Grow Team, Lewiston

ANSWER: What a beautiful letter. Thank you for utilizing Sun Spots to thank your supporters and to let us know that the event was a wonderful success. Stay strong.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Maine Cycling Club is hosting a free demonstration of ebikes (electric assist bicycles) at the Lewiston-Auburn campus of University of Southern Maine, 51 Westminster St., from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept 5.

The demo will be presented by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine. Riders can try out the bikes in a parking lot or venture forth on the road if they feel comfortable. Helmets will be provided. For further information contact Joe Pelliccia, Maine Cycling Club, at  [email protected]. — Joe, no town

ANSWER: I’ve been wanting to try out an ebike! My daughter has one and she highly recommends it.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m wondering when Planet Fitness next door to Shaw’s in Lewiston will open. If anyone can solve this mystery, it’s you, dear friend. — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: I heard on WHOM (94.9 FM) a few weeks ago that Planet Fitness was having issues staffing the place. On Facebook on Aug. 4, there were more comments regarding staffing issues. Keep in mind that this could just be gossip, but it seems legit. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that the place opens soon. The company hasn’t announced an opening date yet. If anyone knows anything solid, please pass on the information.

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].