DEAR SUN SPOTS: The Dempsey Center wishes to share the news of a new Volunteer Program at our Lewiston and South Portland locations. The Volunteer Ambassador Program will train select volunteers to provide orientations to community members who are new to the center.
We are looking for volunteers who have experience supporting people in difficult situations, such as counselors, educators, health care workers or social service providers who have strong communication, listening and customer service skills, and the ability to volunteer daytime and/or evening hours when the center is open.
Those interested are encouraged to attend one of the informational sessions to learn about the Ambassador Program, the screening and orientation process and the time commitment involved.
The Lewiston information session will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, at 29 Lowell St., 5th floor. To register online, go to https://tinyurl.com/ybspabzk.
The South Portland information session will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5, at 778 Main St., 2nd floor. To register online, go to https://tinyurl.com/y9rdfdwe
For answers to specific questions about this volunteer opportunity, call 207-795-8250. If you know someone who may be a good fit for the Volunteer Ambassador Program, please pass this information along to them. Thank you!
— Michelle, no town
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Every fall I yearn for one of Tim Horton’s wonderful pumpkin muffins! They were the best and none can compare! Someone, somewhere must have a recipe that comes close. Can you help? I’d be forever grateful to enjoy one of those delectable and delicious muffins once again. Thank you so much!
— Hilda, Auburn
ANSWER: Here is a copy-cat recipe I found online. Enjoy!
Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line 1 dozen muffin cups with muffin papers. In a large bowl, whisk together: 1¾ cups flour, ¾ cup brown sugar, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon each salt and ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon each ground cloves and nutmeg. Add ¼ cup pumpkin seeds. In a separate bowl, mix together 2 eggs, ¾ cup canned pumpkin puree, ¼ cup oil, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and ¼ cup milk. Pour over dry ingredients and stir just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. Sprinkle with ¼ cup pumpkin seeds. Bake about 20-25 minutes or until muffins are golden and tops are firm to the touch. Let cool in pan on rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
While muffins are baking, whisk together 4 ounces room-temperature cream cheese, 4 tablespoons powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon each vanilla and lemon juice.
When muffins are cooled completely, inject each muffin with a generous amount of cream cheese mixture.
I have to say, these sound delicious!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for publishing the information about our classes at Creative Artisans in the Oct. 23 Sun Spots. We appreciate it so much. We are growing and you are part of the reason. We picked up a new customer today for the sewing class because of your mention of us in your column.
— Karen Pelletier
ANSWER: Sun Spots is pleased to connect readers with local businesses. It’s all part of the job. I’m so glad we are able to help!
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