This is the first Monday morning that old man winter truly seems to be knocking at the door. It's just in time to begin thinking of the traditional late fall and early winter activities.

St. Stanislaus Church will have the annual Hunters Dinner Saturday, November 15, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Raber Township Hall. Cost is $8 for adults, $5 for children age five to 12, and free for children younger than five.

The DeTour Food Bank at DeTour Christian Church wants to be sure everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. Any contribution of nonperishable food or money is appreciated. Items to make a Thanksgiving dinner are particularly needed. Monetary contributions are used to purchase perishable items. The last day to deliver food for the Thanksgiving boxes will be Monday, November 17, and the boxes will be distributed by individual appointment Friday, November 21, and Saturday, November 22. If you could use a little extra help this year, or would like to refer someone who might need help, call Gladys Malette at (906) 297-3491 and she will take care of making an appointment for the individual or family to pick up a dinner box.

The DeTour Elementary School students are taking orders for their annual Christmas wreath sale. Proceeds are used to cover the cost of field trips for the classes during the year. Items can be ordered by stopping in at the elementary office, or by calling (906) 297-2011. The last day to order is Friday, November 14.

Area organizations, churches, and businesses are all working together to make the fourth annual old-fashioned Village Christmas Friday, December 5, Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, an even bigger success than previous years. The horse-drawn trolley is ready to go when Santa finishes breakfast with the kiddies Saturday, December 6, and the town crier will open the festivities at the tree lighting and luminary walk at 5:30 Friday, December 5. Luminaries are now on sale at Timberdoodle, Fisher's Restaurant, DeTour Credit Union, Central Savings Bank, the Village Hall, and E Street Salon.

The Presbyterian Church Bazaar and soup luncheon is also a big attraction of Village Christmas, and this year the ladies are planning a holiday quilt show.

A full schedule for the three days of the event will be published soon.

The DeTour Senior Group will have their regular second Thursday of the month potluck and meeting Thursday, November 13, at 5:30 p.m. The group is also extending an invitation to everyone eligible for membership to attend the annual catered Christmas party Thursday, December 4. Senior club membership is open to anyone age 55 or older, or age 50 and older if retired. Spouses of members are welcome, regardless of age. For information on membership, or to make reservations for the Christmas party, call club president Kathy Shiplett at (906) 297- 6003.

With hunters in the woods, remember to drive defensively when out and about.