The Family Care Center at 1014 West Main St. includes a Thrift Store open to the public Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The Family Care Center helps others by giving clothing, food and possibly hope to families in their time of need. The Center asks for your help by supporting its thrift stores. There are currently three locations, the one in Centre, another at 5511 Main St. in Hokes Bluff and another in Cedar Bluff. The Center is currently helping more than 100 families per week and thanks the community for its continued support. Director is Cindy McGinnis.

All retirees of the Cherokee County Education Retirees Association are invited to attend the first monthly meeting of the New Year at Lanny’s Restaurant (in the private dining room). The starting time will be Wednesday, Jan. 9, at 11 a.m. Guest speakers will be Patricia Davis Harton and daughter, Christa Carnell Davis. Christa has written a true story of the battles her mother has been through after showing signs of allergies to metals in life-saving devices. All citizens need to be aware of these various sensitivities before undergoing some of these surgeries. There will be a question and answer time from the audience. There will be books available for those who wish to share the story with other older folks. After a short business meeting conducted by Billy Wayne Tillery, president, attendees are invited to stay for a “Dutch-treat” lunch and socialize with other retirees. For additional information, call 256-526-8583.

Kiwanis of Cherokee County, noon, Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce office. Lunch is available.

Classes begin for the Spring Semester at Gadsden State Community College. View the complete class listing and registration schedule at www.gadsdenstate.edu.

Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce has declared JANUARY “RESTAURANT MONTH” in Cherokee County. In observance, local restaurants are offering specials throughout the month. Call the Chamber at (256)927-8455 for information on participating restaurants and the specials they may be offering.