We want to hear from you on these topics:

• Money troubles -- Yes, we know. The news on the country's economic status is dismal and discouraging. That's why last week's story on the conference budget addressed the situation from a Christian perspective, while inviting readers to share their joys and concerns. In this case, only two readers responded. (We're awaiting permission from those readers to share their responses in the November newspaper). In the weeks ahead, however, we hope more of you will e-mail The Call about how your ministries are affected by the financial crunch. Look for The Call to share those kinds of stories. We need to help each other through this.

• Hungry people – With all that said, it's obvious that food pantries throughout Holston who will see their ministries grow overnight. Already, we've heard from First Oneida UMC in Oak Ridge District and Sand Mountain UMC in Chattanooga District, about how their numbers are increasing. Look for a story in the near future. E-mail us now about what's happening with your own food ministry. Tell how us how other churches and church members can help.

• Awards --The Holston Communications staff is proud whenever we can help lift up the many glorious ministries throughout the conference. We are also proud when we receive recognition for our work outside Holston. On Oct. 15, the communications staff won two awards at the United Methodist Association of Communicators annual meeting in Providence, R.I. Annette Spence and Donna Hankins won a division award for internet newswriting for their online General Conference coverage, "Live From Fort Worth." Millie Meese won a division award for brochures with her Divine Rhythm 2009 brochure, "Lift Him Up." Millie attended the awards luncheon in Rhode Island.