<lst>Ecumenical Community Helping Others (ECHO) is selling the 2003 coupon book. Entertainment books cost $35, $7 of which goes directly to ECHO. The books include 50 percent off and two-for-one offers on hundreds of dining, hotel, recreation, shopping and other expenses. There are savings on airline tickets, rental cars and much more. The Entertainment book is available for more than 150 cities coast to coast. Books are available now and may be used immediately and through Nov. 1, 2003. Books can be picked up at ECHO at 7205 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, whenever ECHO is open for business. Books must be picked up no later than Dec. 20. Phone 703-569-9160 or 703-451-7955 for hours or for more information.
United Community Ministries (UCM) is looking for donations for the needy. Items can be given through church or community organizations or dropped off at 7511 Fordson Road between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday–Friday. UCM can schedule pickups for donations of food by churches or other organizations. Items that are most needed are spaghetti sauce, pasta, macaroni and cheese, dry cereal, beans, single-serving cereal for homeless care packages, diapers and paper and plastic grocery bags. Also needed are tuna or canned meats, canned fruit, rice, canned soup, sugar, jelly or jam, canned vegetables, peanut butter, individual juice boxes, canned fruit, individual fruit cups, individual applesauce, individual raisin boxes, individual pudding cups, saltine crackers, baby food, formula (Good Start), bath soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, feminine care products, laundry soap, deodorant, toothbrushes and shampoo. Call Tracy Davis at 703-768-7106, Ext. 328.