Tickets have been distributed for the free concert of The Jazz Ambassadors, the United States Army's touring big band, set for Monday evening, Nov. 2, at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC).

The concert is sponsored by The Greeneville Sun and NPAC.

Those with tickets are reminded to be in their seats by 6:40 p.m. Unfilled seats will be released to non-ticketholders by 6:45 p.m.

Although the concert is free, the sponsors are hoping that those in attendance will bring canned goods and/or staples for the Food Bank. Containers will be in the lobby for collection.

Any ticket-holders who have learned that they cannot use their tickets are asked to return them to NPAC. The Box Office at NPAC has a list of individuals who desire tickets but were unable to get them.

Asked why they were soliciting food for the Food Bank, Gregg Jones, co-publisher of The Greeneville Sun, said, "The needs are so great this year for folks in our community, and we felt like this would be a great way for folks, with any kind of circumstances, to help others. You may bring one can or many -- all will be appreciated."

Darrell Bryan, Executive Director of NPAC, said, "We are so pleased to be offering this concert for the public, and with the Thanksgiving season upon us, we are happy to give others an opportunity to share in giving to those in need."

Carmen Ricker told The Sun earlier this week that last year the Food Bank provided 323,341 meals to individuals in the community.

"As of the end of last year," Ricker said, "We served 10,423 households, reaching 28,765 people. It truly appears that this year our need is going to be greater, and we have learned that there are people this year who are not even able to get in to the Food Bank to ask for help. I hope everyone will do what they can."

Ricker said any type of canned foods or staples (sugar, flour, corn meal, etc.) is welcome, but there is a need for soups and canned fruits.

Monday's program will include several types of music: big band swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz, standards, popular tunes, Dixieland, and patriotic selections.

This 19-member ensemble, formed in 1969, has received great acclaim both at home and abroad performing America's original art form, jazz.