What a night. What an author-filled, decadent chocolate, lots of good conversation and laughter night it was. A record-breaking number of 24 congenial, personable, wonderfully talented authors attended the 20th Annual Chocolate and Authors Fundraiser at the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville, on the 20th of February, with the theme of “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.” The over one hundred other appreciative guests chatted with said authors, offering their interest and encouragement. Our heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who attended and who enjoyed our delicious desserts and fantastic decorations.
Stevensville’s own Montana Chocolate Company provided their usual awesome theme-oriented display of mouthwatering chocolate goodies to add to the array of outstanding desserts offered. We thank each of the generous donors most sincerely who not only added to our enjoyment but probably added a pound or two as well.
Thanks to Mayor MimMack’s sound system, which he kindly lends to us every year, we were able to give out many door prizes, and announce the winners of our big raffle: C. Anderson, L. Grimes and T. Winston. Congratulations to them, but please remember that everyone who purchased a raffle ticket is a winner because you helped support a much-loved, much used, indispensable library that we are so fortunate to have right in the middle of our town. We are also most grateful to the Mission Bistro and the Burnt Fork Market for their participation. Our student volunteers, Rachel Carter, Ireland Brown, Dillion Duke and John and Paul Rodrigues, did a fine job of helping where needed and serving our guests. Captain Nemo (Jose Sanchez) was resplendent in his turtle-neck sweater, Captain’s cap, with a big pipe to add to the atmosphere.
Last, but never, ever least, I wish to thank the members of my group who, under the expert and imaginative direction of Diana Griffin, worked so long and hard on our beautiful and realistic “under the sea” decorations, complete with bigger than life-size deep sea divers, a mermaid on a rock, a treasure chest with jewels spilling out, the Nautilus, every kind of fish and flora and fauna you would find beneath the sea, and a material 12-foot squid to delight (or frighten) everyone. Stay tuned, because we will be having an “Adopt A Squid” campaign shortly. My dedicated, multi-talented members of the Friends of the North Valley Library, in alphabetical order are: Wa Correia, Judy Fraser, Diana Griffin, Pam Hawkins, Jose Sanchez (with Karen Sanchez helping when she can) and Lisa Thompson. Thanks, guys, you’re the best.
Beverly Helrich, President
Friends of the North Valley Library