Belgrade News - Home for the Holidays

Local Shopping & Christmas Stroll Activities Supporting Our Community

BELGRADE • MANHATTAN • THREE FORKS

SUPPORTING OUR

local food system

TOWN & COUNTRY FOODS SUPPORTS & PROMOTES OUR LOCAL FOOD SYSTEM. The benefit of “buying local” brings a tastier, fresher, more wholesome product to our customers.

Buying local helps the communities’ economies grow and helps reduce the carbon footprint.

We would like to take this time to thank our loyal customers for shopping with Town & Country Foods.

Thank You

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Belgrade Community Coalition’s FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS MAKES the Town Twinkle Illuminating the city again this year with its hometown holiday cheer is the Belgrade Community Coalition’s Festival of Lights.

Originally founded by Belgrade Chamber of Commerce in 1996, the event has grown into a beloved community-wide celebration, with hundreds of volunteers and Coalition committee members making the festival come to life. Throughout the past several years, the gathering has evolved into a full-day-long get-together with highlights like pancake breakfasts, gingerbread contests, photo sessions with Santa, 5K runs, culinary contests, wagon rides, live nativity scenes, fireworks, and downtown street parties.

“We’re so excited about continuing our events this year for the festival,” said Tiffany Maierle, the director of the Belgrade Community Coalition.

“As we build out and add new events and activities, we are always open to ideas and help from the community.”

Part of this year’s event is the continuing tradition of the Memorial Lights program, which invites people to honor their departed loved ones by purchasing strings of lights in their names. The Holiday Light Park is a fairly new addition, which was created during the pandemic as a month-long display for people to walk through with their families.

“We’re adding new and fun displays to the Holiday Light Park this year, remembering our loved ones during the Memorial Lights program, welcoming festive joggers and walkers along with their four-legged friends to participate in the Jingle Jog 5K, and crowning the winners of the Best Ugly Christmas Outfits in the Valley during our Get Ugly Contest,” Maierle said. “And we’re very excited about the Belgrade Holiday Market at the Belgrade High School Special Events Center.”

The festivities begin at 6 p.m. Sun. Nov. 19 with Flip the Switch Night (the first night of the Belgrade Light Park, which will illuminate the city), and continue with the Jingle Jog 5K, the Ugly Sweater Contest, and the Belgrade Holiday Market on December 9; Memorial Lights Night on December 14; and the final night of the Belgrade Light Park on January 5.

A Holiday Light Park behind the Senior Center will be a luminous winter wonderland from dusk to 11 p.m. each night from November 19 to January 5. Strings of memorial lights will also be on sale until December 14 on the Coalition website, and will be displayed along the Senior Center walking path.

For more information on the Festival of Lights and other events, visit belgreatmt.org.

6 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

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HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK November 19 - January 5 Dusk - 11pm Belgrade Senior Center

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Special Light Park Nights

NOVEMBER 19 AT 6PM - FLIP THE SWITCH NIGHT Count down to turning on the lights for the season while enjoying hot cocoa, food trucks, warm fires, and holiday music!

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JINGLE JOG 5K FUN RUN & GET UGLY CHRISTMAS OUTFIT CONTEST Race starts at 10am | Contest at 11:30am | Belgrade Mercantile - 11 W. Main Jingle Jog all the way in this fun 5K race where you get to wear your favorite holiday outfit and are automatically entered into the Get Ugly Christmas Outfit contest where you could win CASH prizes! Running not your thing? You can still participate in the contest by bringing 2 nonperishable food items to donate to the food bank.

For more information visit belgreatmt.org

Love thy NEIGHBOR

By Dan Holland

A light snow began to fall as three men climbed the outer stairs to the second floor of a small apartment building. “Twooh-three, right?” One of them asked, and as the other two nodded, he knocked on its door.

The men could see a woman’s face peer through the blinds of an adjacent window and heard her mumble, “Just a minute.”

That was followed by the sound of the dead bolt unlocking and the door opening enough for the men to see a woman in a frayed housecoat.

“Good morning, ma’am,” the knocker exclaimed in an overly cheerful voice. “We’re here to help you move.”

The woman coughed and said in a raspy tone, “Hang on, I’m moving pretty slow this morning.” She opened the door wider and motioned for the men to come in as she sized them up. Again she coughed and said, “You’re all older than me.”

All the men laughed and the tallest of the three said coyly, “And that’s why you’re getting such a good deal.”

The woman looked confused and said apologetically, “I told the girl in the office I couldn’t pay you anything.”

Again the men all laughed, and the first one explained, “We’re teasing, ma’am. Of course there’s no charge. That’s how this works.

We’re just volunteers from local churches that sign up to help folks like you do things you can’t do on your own.”

“But I don’t go to church,” the

woman protested.

The man continued, “That doesn’t matter. We just come to help; no strings attached; no questions asked.”

The woman sat down on one of the mismatched chairs surrounding her kitchen table.

“I thought it was too good to be true, but I guess I was wrong,” she shrugged. “Until now nothing has been going right for me lately. The owner of this complex sold the place a couple months ago, and the new owners almost doubled my rent.”

The tall one shook his head in commiseration, “Yeah, we’re seeing a lot of that lately; seems like folks are getting priced out of the valley.”

The woman sighed, “Or at least this part of the valley. My new place is clear across town.

Lucky for me it comes with HUD assistance. But the down side is I can’t walk to my part-time job anymore.”

It was the knocker’s turn, “Ma’am, we’re sorry this happened to you, but we’re here to help you. Now, I’ve been assessing your situation and if it’s okay with you we’re going to start by taking all the stuff in the living room: the couch, those two chairs, the TV and that table.

That should give you enough time to get changed and then we can start on the bedroom. It looks like that bed and dresser are ready to go.”

“I still need to fill up a couple boxes of clothes from the closet,” then she sheepishly added, “and I haven’t really started on the

8 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

kitchen yet.”

The men all nodded. “We noticed,” said the tall one, “but we’re here to help and that’s what we’re going to do. But you have to do your part, too. I see a coffee pot there, but it doesn’t look like you made any yet. Any chance you could make some to keep your overpriced help motivated?”

The woman slowly rose from table and smiled. “Yep, I think I can handle that.”

Over the course of the next couple of hours the men made fairly quick work of the bulkier items in spite of having to navigate the stairs down to the parking lot where their utility trailer was rapidly filling up. The snow continued to fall off and on, but the cool air was almost a relief as they trudged up and down the stairs. Occasionally one of them would stop to help the

woman pack a box and to keep her on track.

At last the knocker declared to her, “Just a couple more trips and I think we got everything handled. Are you ready to go to your new dream home, which hopefully is located on the ground floor?”

The woman laughed, “Actually it’s on the third floor,” she waited a beat then added, “but it’s right by the elevator,” as the men highfived each other.

In another two hours everything had been moved into the new place and arranged in some semblance of order with kitchen boxes in the kitchen and bedroom boxes in the bedroom.

The woman again sat down at her kitchen table and looked through the window at her new view shed.

CONTINUED ON | 15

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November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 9

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The Christmas Convoy and Truck Village BRINGS JOY TO BELGRADE

By Abby Weingarten

Truckers are getting into the holiday spirit again this year, as the Belgrade Christmas Convoy and Truck Village return to the city.

For the past few years, the Belgrade Community Coalition (BCC) has helped bring this popular event to the public, but the Montana Convoy Foundation has since been established to host it.

“It’s a really great way to bring

some Christmas spirit and joy to Belgrade,” said Ken Murphy, the operations and safety manager for TMC Inc. Sand & Gravel, who is one of the event organizers. “It’s a way for a lot of these owner-operators and local companies to do something for the community.”

A total of 100 trucks and vehicles are slated to line up along the Gallatin Valley Speedway at 2290 Tubb Road from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Sat. Dec. 9 for the Convoy. The

Truck Village (with a host of food trucks) will be onsite from 5 to 9 p.m. Fri. Dec. 8.

There will be dump trucks, semi-trucks, garbage trucks, and logging trucks lighting up Belgrade, with a convoy across seven miles through town and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Last year, about 6,000 spectators arrived for the Truck Village, and there were upwards of 10,000 people watching the convoy along the route.

Attendees have been asked to park within the neighborhoods off the route (which starts on Tubb Road and goes through such areas as Powers Boulevard, Penwell Bridge Road, and Dry Creek Road, finishing around Arizona and Northern Pacific).

Drivers are encouraged to add as many holiday lights to their generator-equipped vehicles as they drive at speeds of 15 miles per hour.

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November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 11

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“We’ve received nothing but positive feedback about these events. And, for truckers, this is the one day out of the year that no one hates us on the road,” Murphy said with a laugh. “We take a lot of pride in this event. Not all of us have time to volunteer in the community, so this is a way for us to show a little thanks.”

The BCC will still continue to hold other beloved Festival of Lights events, including the Holiday Light Park, Flip the Switch Night, the Downtown Lights Display, the Jingle Jog 5K, the Ugly Christmas Outfit Contest, and the Memorial Lights program.

For more information on the Belgrade Christmas Convoy and Truck Village, visit mtconvoyfoundation. com.The woman smiled and, as she patted the hand holding hers, a tear trickled down her cheek.

12 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

Enjoy Celebrating Belgrade Festival of Lights Events!

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Honor the memory of your loved ones this season Cherish the memory of loved ones this holiday season by purchasing an ornament in their honor.

Then join us for a special night at the Belgrade Holiday Light Park where an ornament with your loved one's name will be displayed in the Memorial Lights Tunnels, local choirs will share the sounds of the season, and we will have a moment of silence as we remember our loved ones no longer with us.

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Wishing you the Best of the Holiday Season & a Prosperous New Year!

Memorial Lights

before.”

The third man continued, “You want to hear something funny — before this morning I hadn’t ever seen these two guys, either. Now after a few hours I’ve made three new friends. So, yeah, we’re all neighbors; we live in the same place, this place called earth.”

The woman smiled and, as she patted the hand holding hers, a tear trickled down her cheek.

We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!

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I could easily hire somebody to do it for me. I figure what goes around comes around.

Besides the bible tells me to love my neighbor as I would myself.”

The woman shook her head, “But you’re not my neighbor. I’ve never seen you before. I’ve never seen any of you

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“How’s your new perspective?” asked the tall one.

She thought for a moment, “It’s different,” she paused again. “I can see more mountains in the distance, but not as many trees close up. Just takes some getting used to, I guess.” She took a deep breath and added, “Can I ask you guys a question — why are you

helping me?”

It was the third man’s turn. He sat down at the table next to her and took her hand in his, “You know life’s been pretty good to me. I’ve got a loving family, a good retirement, a nice home. If I had to move like you do and I couldn’t find any friends to help me, then

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Tel: 388-0878 • Fax: 388-0879 55 Wildhorse Trail • Belgrade, MT

2022 December 14, 2022 at at 6:00pm 6:00pm We Share the Same JoyS of the SeaSon. Holiday Light Park Behind the Belgrade Senior Center We Live Where You Live TM

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may the holidays bring you the joy of friends and family. as your good neighbor State farm agent, I appreciate your business and look forward to a new year together.

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Memorial Lights can be purchased at: belgreatmt.org/memorial-lights or by calling 406-924-3909

November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 15

Pitching in for the Headwaters Food Bank

CHRISTMAS FOOD DRIVE

By Abby Weingarten

Holiday giving is a community tradition at the Headwaters Food Bank, with its yearly Christmas Food Drive that feeds locals in need.

“Last year was our first year of the drive, which happened during the Three Forks Christmas Stroll, and we raised about 300 pounds of food (in return for a professionally taken picture of people’s families with Mr. and Mrs. Claus by Katie Sophia Photography),” said Penny Johnson, the communications manager for the Food Bank. “This year, we are teaming up with First Security Bank out of Three Forks for the same event.”

The food drive, with its added toy drive this year, will take place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Fri. Dec. 1 at the Three Forks Fire Department at 13 E. Date

St. Toys will be on display at the Food Bank so that people can choose gifts to give to their little ones.

“The Three Forks Fire Department lent its space for the event last year and cooked food for the whole community.

This year, volunteers from First Security Bank out of Three Forks are joining us to keep track of parent contact information (to get the right pictures to the right families) and to keep things moving smoothly,” Johnson said. “Everyone was very happy with their free photos (with their donation to the Food Bank) last year, and with meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus.”

As an organization, Headwaters Food Bank serves and supports more than 11,000 individuals in three counties every year, offering wraparound services that address the community’s housing,

16 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

food, nutrition, childcare, and transportation needs. There are locations in Bozeman, Livingston, and White Sulphur Springs.

“What many don’t realize is that our customers often don’t fit the stereotype of people in need. The truth is, anyone can fall on hard times or just need a leg up every once in a while,” the Food Bank’s mission statement explains.

“Anyone can lose their job, shelter, and stability. And every single one of us benefits from a more connected, supported community. We believe every community member deserves support and community resources to find their path to thriving.”

Individuals who wish to donate supplies during the winter season to the Food Bank – from everyday essentials to warm coats and blankets – can drop off items at the Bozeman shelter at 2015

Wheat Dr. For more information on the Headwaters Food Bank Christmas Food Drive, visit thehrdc.org.

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November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 17

Tasty tidbits about EGGNOG Metro Creative Connection

Eggnog is a rich and delicious beverage that has become synonymous with the most festive time of year. This milkand egg-based concoction is tasty on its own, or it can be dressed up with other flavors and spiked with a favorite spirit when celebrating the holiday season with other adult partygoers.

December is National Eggnog Month, and December 24 is National Eggnog Day. There is no more perfect time of year to learn everything you can about eggnog - all the while sipping a cup of this creamy concoction.

Indulge in these festive facts about the beverage, courtesy of Mental Floss, The Fact Site and Tastemade. · Eggnog likely originated in the medieval period and was known as “posset,” a hot, milk-based drink made of spices and wine.

Even though posset could be a cocktail, it also was used as a remedy for colds and flu for its soothing properties. · Milk, eggs and sherry used in the early recipes were difficult to come by, so when eggnog first appeared it was a drink only the wealthy could enjoy.

That changed when eggnog was popularized in the American colonies, where dairy products and liquor were more readily available. · Entymologists believe “eggnog” stems from the word “noggin,” which refers to small wooden mugs often used to serve strong ale, known by the slang

word “nog.” · In the Medieval period, it was risky to drink milk straight because it wasn’t pasteurized.

Eggnog contained alcohol so that it would kill off any harmful bacteria in the milk. · A typical homemade version of eggnog has roughly one egg per serving. However, commercial eggnog is regulated by the FDA and can only contain 1 percent of the product’s final weight in egg yolk solids. That stems from fear of raw egg and salmonella. · President George Washington apparently enjoyed serving eggnog at Christmas, and even had his own special recipe (see below), according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. · There is no right or wrong alcohol to use when preparing eggnog. Distilled spirits like rum, sherry, cognac, and whiskey all have produced suitable eggnogs. · Puerto Rican coquito is a traditional drink that is very similar to eggnog. · Individuals concerned about eggs or milk in eggnog can enjoy a vegan recipe made from nut milk instead. Commercially produced vegan eggnog offerings are now more widely available. · One of the more notable flavors in eggnog comes from the use of nutmeg. Nutmeg is a fragrant spice made from grinding the seed of the nutmeg tree.

Now that you’ve learned about eggnog, whip up a batch of George Washington’s original recipe this holiday season.

18 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

EGGNOG

(George Washington’s original interpretation) 1 quart cream 1 quart milk 1 dozen tablespoons sugar 1 pint brandy 1/2 pint rye whiskey 1/2 pint Jamaican rum 1/4 pint sherry Eggs (Washington forgot to include the number of eggs, so home chefs can improvise or use six, which seems to be the

standard in traditional recipes) Mix liquor first, then separate yolks and whites of eggs, add sugar to beaten yolks, mix well.

Add milk and cream, slowly beating. Beat whites of eggs until stiff and fold slowly into mixture.

Let sit in cool place for several days. Taste frequently.

Tip: Today’s recipe makers may want to set the eggnog in the refrigerator as the “cool place” of choice.

Celebrate With The Belgrade Community!

Merry

Christmas

Belgrade Festival of Lights Events

from your Belgrade McDonald’s!

Enjoy Family & Friends throughout the Holiday Season!

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Stick around after the race for: Ugly Christmas Outfit Contest Free chili lunch provided by The Local Saloon and a draught beer from the Rhino Lounge for all Jingle Jog participants.

Proceeds benefit the Belgrade Community Coalition & Festival of Lights

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Thank you to our sponsors!

November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 19

Last-minute HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS Metro Creative Connection

Though devotees of early holiday shopping do not hesitate to point out how convenient it can be to get all their gifts long before the arrival of Chanukah and Christmas, scores of shoppers still wait until the last minute to begin checking names off their lists. It might be beneficial to shop early, but it’s easy to procrastinate.

Last-minute holiday shopping might not be as enjoyable a custom as family dinners or office parties, but scrambling to find the right gift in the waning days of the holiday season is a familiar situation for millions of shoppers.

Shoppers who find themselves with some last-minute shopping on their to-do list can utilize these tips to make the frantic search for the right gift go smoothly. · Work with store personnel. If a shopping list is lengthy but the time before the holiday arrives is dwindling, speak directly with store personnel, who may offer suggestions but can also help shoppers find what they need.

In-person shoppers can speak with a store clerk immediately upon entering a store, while online shoppers can utilize chat functions on retailers’ websites for help finding something that’s in stock and deliverable before the big day. · Expect competition. Though online shopping would seemingly make last-minute shoppers relics of a bygone era, that was not really the case in 2022. A survey of more than 1,000 shoppers conducted by the retail industry publisher Best Black Friday found

that just about 16 percent of consumers estimated they would finish their shopping during the week of Christmas. Last-minute shoppers who want to avoid crowds should consider shopping during off-peak hours, such as on weekday mornings and afternoons when most people are working. · Shop local. Last-minute shoppers may be flocking to malls and busy downtown shopping districts as they hurry to get gifts for friends and family members with different interests. Shopping at small, local businesses can help last-minute shoppers avoid such crowds. And with less on their shelves and smaller storage

20 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

rooms, small business owners and their staff also tend to know their inventories inside and out.

That can ensure a shopping trip is not spent wandering numerous aisles in search of the right gift. · Bag it, don’t wrap it. Shoppers who wait until the very last minute likely won’t have time to wrap all the gifts they pick up for loved ones. Gift bags conceal gifts just as well as wrapping paper, but it takes a fraction of the time to place a gift in a bag as it does to wrap it in paper. Quality gifts bags also are reusable, which can appeal to anyone looking to create less waste this holiday season. · Don’t forget food. If it’s truly

impossible to find something late in the season and a gift card feels too impersonal, give the gift of food. Adult recipients also can be gifted a bottle of wine or another spirit that can be enjoyed during a holiday meal. Shoppers skilled in the kitchen can whip up a homemade treat, while those without such talents can give a store-bought delicacy or even a subscription to a monthly food club or service.

Last-minute shopping may look different than it used to, but scores of shoppers still wait to buy gifts for their loved ones. A handful of strategies can simplify last-minute shopping.

FIREPLACE SAFETY during the holiday season Metro Creative Connection Gatherings with family and friends are an integral component of the holiday season. Certain rooms in the house are on display more than others, with kitchens, dining rooms and living areas serving as popular places to congregate. Of course, fireplaces also serve as popular gathering spots in homes that feature them.

Lighting a fire in the hearth can make any space more cozy, but doing so comes with some hazards.

Consider these fireplace safety tips in advance of the holiday entertaining season. · Have the fireplace inspected and swept professionally. Prior to lighting the first fire of the season, ensure that a professional inspects the fireplace, chimney and venting to ensure everything is in good condition. The chimney also should be swept to remove excess debris and buildup that could pose a fire hazard. · Keep items away from the fireplace. Wrapping paper, rugs, clothing, magazines, and the like should be kept at least three feet away from the flames, suggests the American Red Cross. Also,

make sure decorations are hung securely and a safe distance away from the fire. · Check your smoke alarms. Be sure the home has working smoke alarms on every level of the house. And keep a fire extinguisher close to the fireplace. · Never burn wrapping paper. Wrapping paper contains additives, like dyes, that make it burn extremely hot. Do not think of discarding wrapping paper by burning it in the fireplace. · Keep the tree a safe distance away. Although it makes for the perfect Christmas photo backdrop, Christmas trees and fireplaces should not be near each other. Also, the Christmas tree is not safe to burn in the fireplace after the season, as the wood has not been properly dried or seasoned. · Use a screen on the fireplace. Make sure the fireplace is properly covered by a screen to stop embers from escaping when the wood pops and sparks. The screen also can help keep decorations and other objects from falling into the fire. · Keep the fireplace clean. Promptly remove any ash and debris from the fireplace after it

has cooled to improve indoor air quality and provide greater control over the next fire when it is burned, advises the American Society of Home Inspectors.

Fireplaces bring warmth and add ambiance to a home, particularly during the holidays. But safety must prevail when lighting fireplaces.

UGLY

Christmas Outfit Contest

December 9 at 11:30am

11 West Main | Belgrade Mercantile Building Check in begins at 11am

Cash prizes awarded for:

Sponsored by:

Best Overall Ugly Most Festive Ugly Classiest Ugly Best Homemade Ugly Best Kid's Ugly

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Please bring 2 nonperishable items to donate to the food bank

Brought to you by belgreatmt.org November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 21

Holiday Light Park

Stroll through a winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, giant ornaments, light tunnels, and more!

Every Night November 19 - January 5 Dusk to 11pm Belgrade Senior Center

Brought to you by the Belgrade Community Coalition belgreatmt.org

22 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

Wishing you a Joyous Holiday Season!

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How to pet proof your home when DECKING THE HALLS Metro Creative Connection

The holiday season is a special time of year. Many factors combine to make the holiday season so unique and festive, and that includes all the effort people put into decorating their homes.

Much thought is giving to holiday lighting arrangements and which tree to buy, but it’s equally important to consider pets when decorating. Many common household pets are naturally curious, and that curiosity can make it difficult to decorate safely come the holiday season. But various pet-proofing strategies can ensure holiday decorations and displays aren’t compromised by four-legged friends this season. · Secure the Christmas tree.

Much like other residents of the home, pets may be mesmerized by a glowing Christmas tree.

Pets may sniff around the tree or investigate it closely, which can increase the chances that it tips over. That poses a significant safety hazard and underscores the importance of using a sturdy stand. Fastening the tree to a wall, much like one might do with a television that isn’t mounted, adds a further layer of protection from tip-overs. · Block off the base of a live tree. Live trees need water to stay green and keep their needles throughout the season.

That water could prove enticing to thirsty pets. Drinking water from a tree stand could increase

the risk of the tree tipping over and the water could upset the stomach of pets if the tree was treated with pesticides prior to being brought home. When decorating with a live tree, make

24 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

sure the base of the tree where the water will be is blocked off. A small fence around the tree could keep curious pets away. The room where the tree is located should be locked or inaccessible when

pets are home alone. · Inspect and conceal light wires. Wires can become frayed over time, and that could pique pets’ curiosity. Lighting wires should always be inspected prior to decorating and frayed or damaged wires should be thrown away, even if it means replacing lights. If wires are still sturdy, conceal them along the base of the wall using a cable concealer, which prevents pets from chewing on them. · Avoid lighting candles. Candles should not be lit in homes with pets. Even candles on shelves that are seemingly beyond pets’ reach can be hazardous, as pets, especially cats, have a way of accessing spaces they seemingly shouldn’t be able to reach.

Use electric candles in lieu of traditional ones. · Speak to a vet about seasonal plants and flowers before bringing them into the home. Pet owners can speak with their veterinarians before bringing poinsettias, holly and other seasonal plants and flowers into their homes. Some pets could suffer allergic reactions if they eat certain seasonal plants, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and speak to a vet before including live plants and flowers in decorative displays.

Decorating is part of the holiday season. Pet owners must exercise an extra bit of caution to keep their pets and homes safe when decorating during this special time of year.

ENJOY BELGRADE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS EVENTS!

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Warning: Polaris off-road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection and footwear and refer to the owner’s manual for additional protective gear instructions and requirements. Read, understand and follow your owner’s manual.

Ride within the limits of your own abilities and never engage in stunt or exhibition driving. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. All riders should take a safety training course.

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3:30-4:30 Santa & Craft Time at the Community Library

4:00-7:00 Craft fair Conservation District - 5th St. Handmade Local Goods & Gifts food VendorS Hay rideS • Draft Horse by C-T Red Angus • Tom & Katie Morton KeyStone CHUrCH Cookie Decorating • Live Music - Joe Man

5:00-7:30 ViSit open HoUSeS at LoCaL BUSineSSeS ManHattan BanK Pictures with Santa Gingerbread Houses on display Raffle Tickets on Sale

THANK YOU CHRISTMAS STROLL SPONSORS

ManHattan BiBLe CHUrCH Warming Station Live Nativity & Petting Zoo Snacks, Drinks, Sit & Socialize StaMp SCaVenger HUnt! Fill stamp page in the flyer by visiting the businesses with stamps.

Chance to win CASH prizes!

Contact Chamber or Facebook page for flyer.

CoLoring ConteSt Coloring sheets at L&F

7:30

fireworKS diSpLay - Downtown Old Glory Fireworks & Manhattan Fire Department ManHattan reSidentiaL LigHt ConteSt! Judging will occur Wednesday, December 6th, winners announced on Christmas Stroll night!

Live broadcast by kboz!

Support Local Business!

For more information: 406-284-4162 6 chamber@manhattanareachamber.com

Getting into the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce’s CHRISTMAS STROLL to

By Abby Weingarten

Hayrides, fireworks, and visits with Santa Claus make the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Stroll an annual must.

“This event has been a community favorite for many years. Incorporating the Christmas spirit with the warmth and charm of the Manhattan community is a perfect way to start the Christmas season,” said Betsy Mancuso, the president of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce.

From 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thurs.

Dec. 7, a variety of events will animate numerous areas throughout the city. Festivities begin with Santa appearing at the Manhattan Community Library during children’s craft time.

Stockman Bank and various local businesses will host open houses.

There will be a craft fair at the Conservation District Conference Room with homemade local goods and gifts, hayrides with draft horses, and food vendors.

More photos with Santa, a gingerbread house contest, and a raffle with enviable prizes will be available at Manhattan State Bank. A warming station for the hayride and a live nativity

scene will be set up at Manhattan Bible Church. A stamp scavenger hunt will invite area businesses to mark spectators’ maps for prizes.

And the evening will conclude with a lively firework display from the team at the Manhattan Volunteer Fire Department.

“This is a time for socializing with friends and neighbors, and for taking in a little Christmas shopping while supporting local businesses,” Mancuso said, adding that the event typically draws about 1,500 attendees.

“There is always something warm

28 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

eat and drink, and tons of activities for kids of all ages. The hayrides with the draft horses, the live nativity scene, and the petting zoo embody the rural aspect of Manhattan. And people enjoy visiting the open houses of the local businesses and visiting with their neighbors.”

Sponsors of the Christmas Stroll allow organizers to invite Santa all the way from the North Pole, decorate spots throughout the town in lovely Christmas adornments, and maintain the

iconic “Season’s Greetings” sign, Mancuso said.

“It’s the perfect event to bring the family, and it’s so much fun for the children – a delightful, small-town, traditional Christmas celebration wrapped in the warm sense of community,” Mancuso said. “It’s really a Norman Rockwell-type community event.”

For more information on the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll, visit manhattanareachamber.com.

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November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 29

Happy Holidays...

Drop off your prescription and non-prescription eye glasses and dark glasses, as well as hearing aids and cell phones in the collection boxes at the Belgrade Senior Center, Bozeman Senior Center, the Manhattan Senior Center, the Three Rivers Senior Citizens Club in Three Forks, and the Gallatin Gateway Community Center

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Join us for Manhattan’s Christmas Stroll - December 7th, 2023

Matilda’s MEOW

By Sue Spinelli

The light of Christmas morning tiptoed into Katy’s grandmother’s house. It floated like a feather over the tinseled tree. Then it glided into the bedroom where Katy slept, prodding the slumbering child to get up and greet the day, dazzling with crystals of fresh snow.

A cavernous yawn rolled over Katy’s lips. Her eyes squinted at the rays of sunlight poking through the white gauzy curtains.

The clock said 6:30. She heard nothing but the faint sound of Gram’s snoring.

The eight-year-old slid her feet into her new tennis shoes. Soon, soft-as-flannel footsteps padded on the wooden floor. She headed for the sofa to see an old friend.

The elderly brown and black tabby cat’s ears swiveled toward the sound like satellite dishes to a signal. Matilda’s hazy eyes glimpsed sparkles of light squirting out of Katy’s shoes.

“Tildie, are you here?” the child asked eagerly.

Matilda sat up on her bony haunches, front feet pointing outward in the manner of old cats. From the sofa, she meowed a greeting.

“Good morning to my most favorite kitty,” Katy said. She gave Matilda a good petting. Then she knelt down, resting her elbows on the sofa.

S. Spinelli, “Matila’s Meow” 2 - “Dear God,” she prayed, “I do hope Daddy will make it home today. I miss him so much. I wish he didn’t have to go so far away to work. I love living with Gram, but I miss Mommy a lot.

I know she’s with you, God. So could you tell her ‘Hi’ for me and tell her I love her? Oh, one more thing, thank you, God, for Christmas.”

The old cat padded over to the kneeling girl and gave her a gentle nudge. Katy wiped her tears away and whispered, “I love you, Tildie.” She wrapped her arms around the softly furred neck.

Purring trills from Matilda and giggles from Katy composed a sweet duet performed in front of only a tree fragrant with pine and bejeweled with Gram’s antique Shiny Brite ornaments. It was their special time, seen only by the little angel sitting on the top of the tree.

Katy heard Gram traipse down the hallway. Soon Gram peeked around the corner into the living room. “My, that was a dreadful storm last night, Katy.”

“I know. The wind howled all night.”

Gram put her arms around Katy and held her close. “I’m afraid that the roads are drifted closed. I haven’t seen any vehicles go by.”

Katy sighed. She knew that her dad was probably stranded and wouldn’t make it home today.

“We’ll wait until tonight to open presents. Just in case. I know my son. He’ll drive through if he can,” Gram said.

Suddenly Matilda cocked her head toward the driveway and meowed. “What do you hear, Tildie?” Katy asked.

S. Spinelli, “Matila’s Meow” 3 - The cat jumped off the sofa.

She dashed toward the front door.

Katy chased Matilda when she heard a knock on the door. She

yanked it open.

There stood, in the doorway, her dad. She gave him a bear hug.

“Hey, careful,” he said, as he stomped the snow off his boots.

“I’ve got something for you ladies.”

“What is it, Jim?” Gram asked.

“Just the most delicious Christmas candy ever. I tastetested it myself, just to be sure.”

He winked at his mom.

“But what about the roads? They said emergency travel only,” Gram said.

“That’s the funny thing. There was a snowplow in front of me all the way until I got to your street.

Then he just disappeared.”

Katy smiled. “Thank you, God,” she whispered.

November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 31

CHANUKAH is upon us

By Rabbi, Chaim Bruk

Chanukah is upon us (Dec. 7-15), and the brightness will be permeating the universe. Millions of Menorahs, Chanukiyot, will be ignited in homes, workplaces, and in the public square, illuminating the darkness and warming the cold winter nights.

From Samara to Fargo, Belgrade to Odessa, Dubai to Kfar Azza, Jewish families will gather around the Menorah and relive the miracle of light.

This year our Menorah’s will be lit during the darkest time for humanity in over eighty years. On Shemini Atzeres, the Jewish holiday of Torah joy, over fourteen hundred Jews, men, women and children, even babies, were butchered, raped, burned alive, and beheaded as Hamas terrorists invaded the Holy Land and indiscriminately murdered any Jew in sight. As I write this, two-hundred-and-fortyone hostages are still being held in Gaza, including toddlers and babies. The pain is unbearable.

Yet, to add salt to the terrible would, right here in America there are terrorist sympathizers and supporters. Imagine, if after 9/11 we’d have people in the streets defending Al Qaeda, our blood would boil, we’d be shocked and confused, and yet, from Harvard to Downtown Los Angeles, from Dearborn

to New York City, thousands are marching in defense of the barbarism. It’s not about their love for innocent Palestinians, because they are nowhere to be found when Palestinians/Arabs are butchered in Lebanon, Syria, Egypt or Jordan; it’s about hating the Jew for the “crime” of selfdefense. It’s a scary time to be a Jew, it’s a tough time to be a human being with a functioning soul, with a moral compass, but it will get better.

You see, as Chanukah arrives our spirits are lifted and the brightness shines. Back in the days of the second Holy Temple in Jerusalem, just over 2,000 years ago, the Syrian Greek King Antiochus IV, insisted on eradicating Judaism from the Jewish people. He wanted the Holy Land to be unholy, he wanted people to be “enlightened” but not “religious”, and he insisted that observances that don’t fit his logical understanding should be no more. Like today, most of the world was ready to go along with his tyrannical ideas, they figured that he was mighty and “if you can’t beat them, join them”.

What he didn’t anticipate was the Maccabee revolt.

A small band of Jews, led by Judah the Macabee, refused to surrender, refused to accept the unholy endeavors, and he gathered his brothers, a small

32 | HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS • BELGRADE NEWS • November 2023

group of warrior Jews who were willing to fight the superpower, and the rest is history. Tough there was lots of Jews who died, who sacrificed their life to defend their religious freedom and way of life, the result was a resounding victory for the minority Jews over the mighty Syrian army. It’s this story of Chanukah that reminds us that we mustn’t ever be demoralized by the Jew hatred seen around the world; there may be many haters, but light is always stronger than darkness, and we will continue shining.

As we light our Menorah’s in the dark of winter, we will think of the fallen Jews, we will keep in mind our incredible Jewish brothers and sisters in Israel, we will keep in mind all the Christians and moderate Muslims that have been killed by Hamas, ISIS, and Hezbollah terrorists, and we will remind the world that the Jewish people may be small in number, but we aren’t going anywhere, from Abraham to Moses to Deborah, we survive, we thrive and we shine, shine, shine!

Chavie, and our five kiddos, join me in wishing you and yours a happy and bright Chanukah!

Chanukah is upon us (Dec. 7-15), and the brightness will be permeating the universe. Millions of Menorahs, Chanukiyot, will be ignited in homes, workplaces, and in the public square,

illuminating the darkness and warming the cold winter nights.

From Samara to Fargo, Belgrade to Odessa, Dubai to Kfar Azza, Jewish families will gather around the Menorah and relive the miracle of light.

This year our Menorah’s will be lit during the darkest time for humanity in over eighty years. On Shemini Atzeres, the Jewish holiday of Torah joy, over fourteen hundred Jews, men, women and children, even babies, were butchered, raped, burned alive, and beheaded as Hamas terrorists invaded the Holy Land and indiscriminately murdered any Jew in sight. As I write this, two-hundred-and-fortyone hostages are still being held in Gaza, including toddlers and babies. The pain is unbearable.

Yet, to add salt to the terrible would, right here in America there are terrorist sympathizers and supporters. Imagine, if after 9/11 we’d have people in the streets defending Al Qaeda, our blood would boil, we’d be shocked and confused, and yet, from Harvard to Downtown Los Angeles, from Dearborn to New York City, thousands are marching in defense of the barbarism. It’s not about their love for innocent Palestinians, because they are nowhere to be found when Palestinians/Arabs are butchered in Lebanon, Syria, Egypt or Jordan; it’s about hating

the Jew for the “crime” of selfdefense. It’s a scary time to be a Jew, it’s a tough time to be a human being with a functioning soul, with a moral compass, but it will get better.

You see, as Chanukah arrives our spirits are lifted and the brightness shines. Back in the days of the second Holy Temple in Jerusalem, just over 2,000 years ago, the Syrian Greek King Antiochus IV, insisted on eradicating Judaism from the Jewish people. He wanted the Holy Land to be unholy, he wanted people

to be “enlightened” but not “religious”, and he insisted that observances that don’t fit his logical understanding should be no more. Like today, most of the world was ready to go along with his tyrannical ideas, they figured that he was mighty and “if you can’t beat them, join them”.

What he didn’t anticipate was the Maccabee revolt.

A small band of Jews, led by Judah the Macabee, refused to surrender, refused to accept the unholy endeavors, and he gathered his brothers, a small group of warrior Jews who were

willing to fight the superpower, and the rest is history. Tough there was lots of Jews who died, who sacrificed their life to defend their religious freedom and way of life, the result was a resounding victory for the minority Jews over the mighty Syrian army. It’s this story of Chanukah that reminds us that we mustn’t ever be demoralized by the Jew hatred seen around the world; there may be many haters, but light is always stronger than darkness, and we will continue shining.

As we light our Menorah’s in

the dark of winter, we will think of the fallen Jews, we will keep in mind our incredible Jewish brothers and sisters in Israel, we will keep in mind all the Christians and moderate Muslims that have been killed by Hamas, ISIS, and Hezbollah terrorists, and we will remind the world that the Jewish people may be small in number, but we aren’t going anywhere, from Abraham to Moses to Deborah, we survive, we thrive and we shine, shine, shine!

Chavie, and our five kiddos, join me in wishing you and yours a happy and bright Chanukah!

November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 33

May the blessings of Christmas shine on you throughout the Holiday Season!

Jeresasuosn

is the

season.

FOR THE

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Holiday Spirit Abounds at the Three Forks Chamber of Commerce CHRISTMAS STROLL It’s a winter wonderland every December when the Three Forks Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll comes to town.

From 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Fri. Dec. 1, the Stroll will begin with a tree lighting ceremony and lively lighted parade. There will be indoor and outdoor vendors, live stage performances, delectable food trucks, merchant bingo, professional photo sessions with Santa Claus (taken in exchange for donations of a new, unwrapped toy or food item for the Headwaters Food Bank), a wreath auction, a Candy Cane Lane at the library, a

gingerbread house contest, and a community parade. The town will also be celebrating the holidays with Christmas concerts at various schools and Small Business Saturday gatherings on November 25.

“The Christmas Stroll is a great chance for the community to come out and have fun, while at the same time supporting local businesses.

It’s also a wonderful day that’s fun for all ages,” said Emily Smith, the executive director of the Three Forks Chamber of Commerce.

Main Street will close early to allow visitors to visit area businesses and get a head start on

their Christmas shopping. The Stroll will kick off with a tree lighting ceremony and a lighted parade led by Santa Claus. Businesses will decorate their storefronts and stay open late, while individuals, groups, and businesses adorn floats for the parade (prizes will be awarded for the best float in the show).

Christmas carols and melodies will be sung by local high school choirs and performed by student bands.

The Three Forks Chamber of Commerce has also organized merchant bingo to support local shopping. To play, each bingo space must be stamped or signed by participating businesses on the

designated spaces. For the Three Forks Stroll silent auction, everyone in the community is invited to create and donate a creatively decorated Christmas tree or wreath, and proceeds will benefit the Future Farmers of America.

Attendees can even grab “stroll buttons” to show their holiday spirit, and funds raised will support the Three Forks School Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America.

For more information on the Three Forks Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll, visit threeforksmontana.com.

446305-1

By Abby Weingarten

November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 35

Season’s Greetings...

Enjoy Enjoy the Three Stroll Three Forks Forks Stroll Friday, 4th Friday, Dec. Dec. 3rd 1st

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS Wishing you a happy holiday season and a joyful New Year from your friends at Opportunity Bank of Montana.

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November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 37

Warm up with a RICH, CHOCOLATE BEVERAGE Metro Creative Connection

Nothing beats sipping a hot, soothing beverage after a day of choosing the perfect Christmas tree or lobbing snowballs in the backyard. Teas, hot toddies, coffees, and mulled ciders certainly can fit the bill, but a mug of rich hot chocolate is a holiday season staple.

Hot chocolate can be whipped up quickly from premade packets, but many such packets are loaded with sugar. Chocolate lovers should have a reliable hot chocolate recipe to lean on when the moment is right. This recipe for “Real Hot Chocolate” from “Chocolate” (Parragon) by the editors of Love Food is sure to please.

Get a jump start on your financial resolutions this holiday season

of the milk onto the chocolate and leave until the chocolate has softened.

Whisk the milk and chocolate mixture until smooth. Return the remaining milk to the heat and return to a boil, then pour onto the chocolate, whisking constantly.

Pour into warmed mugs or cups and top with the chocolate curls.

Serve immediately.

REAL HOT CHOCOLATE Serves 1 to 2 1 1/2 ounces semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces 1 1/4 cups milk Chocolate curls to decorate Place the chocolate in a large, heatproof pitcher. Place the milk in a heavy-bottom saucepan and bring to a boil. Pour about one-quarter

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Learn how Opportunity Reward Checking can help you earn 1% unlimited cash back on your debit card purchases.*

opportunitybank.com/reward To qualify, account holders must: 1. Maintain an Opportunity Reward Checking account with Opportunity Bank of Montana for the duration of the month; and 2. Enroll in and agree to receive eStatements for your Opportunity Reward Checking account; and 3. Receive a minimum of $1,000 in direct deposits or recurring ACH credits to your Opportunity Reward Checking account; and 4. Make at least 10 qualifying debit card purchase transactions posted and cleared to your Opportunity Reward Checking account. *Eligible Opportunity Reward accounts will be reimbursed up to $12 per month in ATM fees or surcharges assessed by us or another bank and will receive debit card rewards of 1% on qualifying purchases per month.

Qualifying purchases include debit card signature purchase or “pinless” transactions where the customer selects “credit” as the transaction type. All bonuses will be credited to your Opportunity Reward Checking account by the 15th day of the month following the qualification calendar month. Bonuses and gifts are subject to the IRS tax reporting requirements 1099-MISC. Opportunity Reward Checking requires a $100 minimum deposit to open. Transactions made using Google Wallet, PayPal, Venmo, Square Cash or Money Gram will NOT be counted towards the minimum number of debit card transaction requirements for Opportunity Reward Checking and will NOT receive 1% cash back.

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November 2023 • BELGRADE NEWS • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS | 39

Merry Christmas As 2023 comes to a close, we thank you for the e privilege of being your y neighbor eighbor in this wonderful community we call home.

On behalf of all of us at Stockman Bank, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender