Wednesday, December 3: 11:00 a.m. Miller Center Forum: President James Monroe. Daniel F. Preston is Editor of The Papers of James Monroe at the James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library. Further information, directions at www.millercenter.org

Monday, December 8: 11:00 a.m. Miller Center Forum: Reflections on the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Michael Joseph Smith has written extensively on the ethical dilemmas raised by contemporary international politics, most recently contributing to the United Nations International Commission on Sovereignty and Intervention. He is the Thomas C. Sorenson Professor of Political and Social Thought and Associate Professor of Politics at U.Va. Further information, directions at www.millercenter.org

Thursday, December 11: 7:30 p.m.“Chipmunks, Acorns, and Ground Nesting Birds”: Professor Charles Ziegenfus gives an illustrated talk that reveals the fascinating connection between swings in acorn crops and the fate of juncos and chipmunks. Also, since bird watching is a year-round sport, get the details about the club’s upcoming bird walks and field trips.

Education Building, Ivy Creek Natural Area, Earlysville Road, Charlottesville. Contact: Ellen Dudley: 244-2688 / Patricia Wilczek: 985-4444 / Stauffer Miller: 296-5505 www.monticellobirdclub.org

Friday, December 12: 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Fluvanna County Democrats' Holiday Party at Glen Burnie in Palmyra. Further info, directions www.fluvannademocrats.org

Tuesday, December 16: Fifth District Congressional vote recount to take place in each locality.