The Tellico Plains Public Library is sponsoring a food drive through Dec. 5.  Sandy Snyder, library director, stated that, "We can all help those who are truly in need, even if it's just with a can of tuna."  When they bring non-perishable food items to the library, donors can be entered in a drawing to win a $50 Walmart gift card by giving their names and phone numbers to the library staff member on duty. Each item donated earns one chance to win the gift card. All food will be donated to local food banks on Dec. 6. For more information please contact the Tellico Plains Public Library, phone 253-7388.

Rafter Friends Church in Tellico will hold its annual live Christmas nativity from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 8. Drive through and witness the life of the Lord, from birth to resurrection. Live characters in each scene. Refreshments will be available. For info, call 253-5588.

Happy birthday to Landon Hamby and Mindy Frank.

Happy anniversary to Jeff and Lori Dalton and Travis and Rebecca Pearson

Get well wishes go to Betty Cheeks, Sam Belcher,  Faye Torbett, O.R. "Red" Young, Sue Young, Susie Moser, Otis Young, Wail Dalton, Thelma Matoy, JoAnn Queen,  Boyd Rodgers, Emma Best, Wayne Lynn, Charlotte Duncan, Justine Williams, Margaret Wall,  Virgil Tipton, Faye McDaniel, Gladys Best, Bill Crowe and Patsy Long.

Sympathy is extended to the families of Molly Gray and Reba Williams.

On Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m., the Friends of the Tellico Plains Public Library will present the first screening of the animated movie, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." The 1966 version of this classic movie will be shown at the Tellico Plains Community Center. Admission is free and refreshments will be provided. You are encouraged to bring a blanket or comfortable folding chairs. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Join us for the beginning of a fun tradition.

The Ball Play Ruritan Club will hold its monthly dinner and meeting on Monday, Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m. with the holiday social and brief business meeting at 7 p.m. at the Friends of Ball Play Fellowship Hall at 153 Ball Play School Road.  Come meet your neighbors and make new friends.  Guests are always welcome to enjoy a good home-cooked meal with us.  Call 442-7053 for more information.

Thank you to everyone that is sending email to me for printing.  I really appreciate your help. Please send any monthly meeting information to me.  Sometimes I will forget that your organization has a standing meeting on a certain day of the month, such as a Ruritan meeting on the second Tuesday.  I want this column to be for you.  I enjoy letting everyone else know what is important to Tellico and area readers.

You can e-mail me at bep98twc@charter.net to have your news reported.