Wednesday, May 11
Preschool Story Time
Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, May 11 to enjoy “Welcome to Fairyland” and enjoy books read by Star Jameson. This story time begins at 10:30 a.m. and is designed for children 3-5 years of age. For more information call 363-1670.
County Democrat meeting
The Ravalli County Democratic Central Committee (RCDCC) invites all Democrats to become members of the Committee. The RCDCC is made up of volunteers from each voting precinct in the county. Together, precinct volunteers, committee officers and all county Democrats support local, statewide and federal candidates, help with campaigns and raise awareness of the values of the Democratic Party. The next Central Committee meeting will be Wednesday, May 11 at 7 p.m. at the Carriage House, 310 N. 4th St., Hamilton. Make a difference, be involved. All Democrats who wish to attend are welcome. If you have questions or need more information contact Chairman John Meakin at 777-4421 or 531-7928.
Thursday, May 12
Women Newcomers Club
The Bitterroot Women Newcomers Club will meet on Thursday, May 12, at 10 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library at 4th and State Streets in Hamilton. The speaker will be Randy Lint of Big Creek Coffee Roasters in Hamilton. For more information, call Melanie Bakken at 777-9814.
SASS meeting
There will be a meeting of the Stevensville Art & Sculpture Society (SASS) on Thursday, May 12 at 10 a.m. at the Bitterroot Star at 215 Main Street in Stevensville. SASS is an organization for the promotion of art within the Bitterroot Valley. Anyone interested in the arts is welcome to attend the meetings and join SASS. Go to HYPERLINK “http://www.sassart.org” www.sassart.org or call Gary Knapp at 777-3797 for more info.
Stevi school facility committee
The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, May 12 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.
Tea Party Patriots
Ravalli County Tea Party Patriots will meet Thursday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Willow Court Apartments, 150 Skeels Ave, Hamilton (from Hwy 93 turn east on Foxfield by Tire-Rama, dead ends at Skeels, turn right, apts on left, park across the street). Discussion will be on local, state and national legislation, feedback from recent Montana and national conventions, and progress on the group’s strategic plans. Learn how you can get involved. For information contact Jennine Jones, 381-0314.
Fellowship Club
The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club will meet on Thursday, May 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to discuss “Wisdom of the Ages: A Modern Master Brings Eternal Truths into Everyday Life” by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer. This book is a powerful collection of writings, poems, and sayings by some of the greatest thinkers of the past 25 centuries. In this compilation Dyer sets out to explain how we can actively apply these teachings to our modern lives. The Fellowship Club meets every second Thursday of the month in the West Meeting Room of the Bitterroot Public Library and is free and open to anyone seeking to promote individual and collective well-being. Call 363-1670, or email jacostant@gmail.com for more information.
Friday, May 13
South Valley Pachyderm Club
Senator Jim Shockley, and Representatives Ron Ehli and Pat Connell will be the speakers at the next meeting of the South Valley Pachyderm Club on Friday, May 13 at 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st street, Hamilton. There will be opportunity for questions and discussion. The South Valley Pachyderm Club, which meets on the second and fourth Fridays of the month, is an officially recognized allied organization of the Republican Party. Members of the public are welcome.
Wildflower identification program
Come view photos of native valley and forest flowers you are likely to encounter while on summer hikes in western Montana. This program will be presented by Annie Garde, current co-president of the Clark Fork Chapter of the Montana Native Plant Society on Friday, May 13 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library. The Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more details, call the Library at 777-5061.
Crab Feed
Friday, May 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Post home on Mid. Burnt Fork Road. Only 150 tickets are available. Call Harry at 777-5398 or Jim at 777-2117 for tickets or information.
Golden Age Club
Beginning Friday, May 13, valley dancers and Golden Age Club members will pay only $3 for singles and $5 per couple for an evening of dancing at the hall, 727 S. Fifth St., Hamilton. Dances are held every Friday night at 7:30 p.m. with live music and snacks.
Stevensville Playhouse production
The Stevensville Playhouse is presenting “Little Shop of Horrors” a musical comedy/sci-fi/horror story. Seymour Krelborn is a nerdy orphan working at Mushnik’s, a flower shop in urban Skid Row. He harbors a crush on fellow co-worker Audrey Fulquard, and is berated by Mr. Mushnik daily. One day as Seymour is seeking a new mysterious plant, he finds a very mysterious unidentified plant which he calls Audrey II. The plant seems to have a craving for blood and soon begins to sing for his supper. Will Audrey II take over the world or will Seymour and Audrey defeat it? Show dates are May 13-14, 20-21 at 8 p.m. and May 14-15, and 21-22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. For reservations call 777-2722 or visit stevensvilleplayhouse.org.
Saturday, May 14
UM reunion
University of Montana alumni celebrating their 50th, 60th or 70th class anniversaries are invited to attend reunions this spring for three days of activities, including participation in UM’s 2011 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 14. This year’s spring reunions will recognize alumni from the classes of 1941, 1951 and 1961. Any alumnus or alumna who graduated 50 years ago or earlier also is invited to join in reunion activities. Family members and friends are welcome to attend. Register online by April 29 at HYPERLINK “http://www.GrizAlum.com” http://www.GrizAlum.com. For more information, contact Jay Kettering at 243-6439, toll-free at 877-892-5867 or HYPERLINK “mailto:jay.kettering@umontana.edu” jay.kettering@umontana.edu.
Flood preparedness meeting
There will be a meeting for Stevensville area residents on Saturday, May 14 at 10 a.m. at the Stevensville Town Hall, 206 Buck, to discuss and plan for potential flooding in the Stevensville area. A county representative and representatives of various service organizations will be participating. For more information contact Mayor Lew Barnett at 777-5486.
Preschool fundraiser
Evergreen Kids Corner Cooperative Pre-school will hold a fundraiser for all ages on Saturday, May 14 from 2 p.m. to midnight. The $5 cover charge includes crafts, games, face-painting, demos, science & nature exploration, live music from The Dodgy Mountain Men, Black Mountain Moan, Voodoo Horseshoes, Temper-airily, Bitterroot Range, Cottonwood and more! Over $1,000 in raffle prizes, dinner, and bake sale, sponsored in part by Lifeline Organic Farms, Recycling in the Root, The Silver Coin/Office Bar and Casino and the Coffee Cup Café.
Kookie Karaoke Knight
Summit Independent Living Center of Ravalli County is inviting anyone with a disability to join in a night of fun, friends and food. Kookie Karaoke Komedy Knight will take place Saturday, May 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Hamilton City Hall Community Center, 223 S. 2nd. If you are person with a disability you are welcome to come and bring a friend, family member or caregiver. Call 363-5242 by May 10 if you plan to attend or have any questions.
Sunday, May 15
Victor Community Church anniversary
All are welcome to attend the 125th anniversary celebration of the Victor Community Church on Sunday, May 15. Services will be held at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. with dinner served at 1 p.m.
Monday, May 16
Lutheran preschool registration
On Monday, May 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Our Savior Lutheran Preschool
of Stevensville will pre-register three- and four-year-old students for
the 2011/2012 school year at the Church. Our Savior’s early childhood
program is designed to develop and to enrich socialization and basic
skills in boys and girls, ages three through five. Parents unable to attend registration are encouraged to call 777-5625 weekday mornings for more information. Anyone wishing to observe the current three- and four-year-old classes in action should call to reserve a date before May 25. Our Savior Lutheran Church, affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road. From the
Eastside Highway, about one mile south of the intersection of the Eastside Highway and Middle Burnt Fork Road, turn east onto Pine Hollow. Cross the tracks and the canal and the church will be on the left, marked by three crosses.
Bitterroot Audubon
Bitterroot Audubon’s May meeting will feature a presentation on Montana’s wetlands and riparian areas and how they can be preserved. Janet Ellis, Montana Audubon Program Director, will discuss the critical role that rivers and streams with their associated riparian habitat play in providing wildlife habitat, improving water quality, reducing erosion and flood risks and enhancing a variety of recreational opportunities. Janet will discuss the importance of protecting these critical areas, as well as the scientific information available on the size of riparian vegetated buffers needed to protect Montana’s water quality, fisheries, wildlife and wildlife habitat. She will also present strategies that can be used to reach out to and work with landowners and local government officials on riparian area protection. Janet’s presentation starts on Monday, May 16 at 7 p.m. at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center, north of Stevensville on Wildfowl Lane. The public is invited. Come early and view the birds and wetlands of the Refuge. Call Dave Lockman (777-2929) for further information.
Tuesday, May 17
Sons of Norway
Those interested in Norwegian culture will celebrate “Syttende Mai” (17th of May) as Norway’s constitution day, when statesmen gathered at Eidsvoll, Norway, and drafted a constitution in the space of a few weeks and signed it on May 17, 1814. This ended 434 years of Danish rule, after Denmark sided with Napoleon when he lost at Waterloo. Bitterrootdalen Lodge, Sons of Norway, will meet on Tuesday, May 17 at 5 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. Fourth, for a potluck supper, with members and guests invited to bring fruit or vegetable salads, everything else will be provided. There will be accordion music and a short history of the holiday. The Lodge will also decorate the Paper Clip window for a week in honor of the holiday. Members and visitors are invited to wear their national costumes. The public is welcome.
Victor Donkey Basketball
Victor will be hosting a community event called Donkey Basketball on Tuesday, May 17 at 7 p.m. in the Victor High School Gymnasium. Teams will consist of students, faculty, and community members. Tickets are $8.00 for adults, $6.00 for students grades 7-12, $4.00 for children grades K-6. To purchase tickets early and receive a dollar off the admission price for each ticket call Jay Jagelski at 642-3221, ext. 263. All proceeds go to the Victor High School Boy’s Basketball Team.
Wednesday, May 18
Preschool story time
Preschoolers are invited to meet on the west lawn of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, May 18 to enjoy “It’s Alpaca Time” and hear books read by Charlene Hakes. There will be special alpaca visitors from Safe Haven Llama and Alpaca Sanctuary. This story time begins at 10:30 a.m. and is designed for children 3-5 years of age. For more information call 363-1670. Remember to wear warm clothing.
Upland game bird meeting
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a draft Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program (UGBEP) strategic plan. FWP will present the plan’s highlights and accept comments at a meeting in Missoula on Wednesday, May 18, beginning at 7 p.m., at the Missoula FWP Office (3201 Spurgin Road). The plan was developed in the past 18 months with the help of a citizens’ advisory council and was recently approved for public review by the FWP Commission. The UGBEP allows FWP to work directly with landowners—and other individuals, groups and organizations—to improve private and public lands for game birds. Landowners can apply to enroll in the cost-share program to develop, enhance, and conserve upland game bird habitats if the land in the project area remains open to reasonable public hunting. To view information on the plan and submit comments electronically, go to the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov on the Hunting page and click “Opportunity for Public Comment.” Address written comments to: FWP – Wildlife Bureau, Attn: Public Comment, POB 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701. All comments must be received by June 6. The FWP Commission will make a final ruling on the UGBEP strategic plan at its July 14 meeting. Contact the FWP Wildlife Bureau at 406-444-2612 for more information.
Thursday, May 19
Superhost training
The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce invites all area businesses and organizations to attend the Montana Superhost customer service workshop, “Lost and Found in Montana.” Both workshops will take place on Thursday, May 19 and are free of charge to all participants. Pre-registration is required. In Hamilton, training will be from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 203 State St., with registration to Pat Easley, session host, at 363-2400 or email localinfo@bvchamber.com. In Stevensville, training will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Main Street Association office with registration to Joan Prather, session host, at 777-3773 or email stevimainst@cybernet1.com.
“Lost and Found in Montana” is designed to create an awareness and understanding of Montana’s travel industry, including “geo-travelers” and to enhance the level of customer service provided by that industry. All of us who meet and serve Montana’s visitors can help them find what they are searching for, and not get lost along the way. Learn how with “Lost and Found in Montana.”
The trainer for this seminar will be Becky Henne. Becky is a dynamic facilitator who has a thorough understanding of what it means to provide outstanding service while motivating others to do the same. With strong connections to the Montana tourism industry, her service examples and suggestions provide practical tips and tools to use immediately following the session.
For more information visit montanasuperhost.com.
Stevi school facility committee
The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, May 19 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.
Friday, May 20
PFLAG inclusion presentation
On Friday, May 20, a presentation and discussion about supporting community efforts that are inclusive and welcoming is being hosted by Bitterroot PFLAG. The presenter is Kathy Reim, the Regional Director of the Pacific Northwest for PFLAG (parents, friends and family of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons). The workshop will be from 6 to 9 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 600 S. 3rd St. Hamilton, in the community basement room. She will be joined by her husband Robert. Kathy Reim has been a PFLAG chapter leader for ten years. She and Robert live in Sedro-Woolley, WA. They are PFLAG parents and their daughter and daughter-in-law live east of Tacoma. They will also be joined by Cesar Hernandez, the Western Field and Policy Manager for National PFLAG from L.A. and the Pride Foundation. Reim is a former educator, a certified mediator and brings material and information useful for small groups and non-profits on best practices, conflict resolution and working with volunteers. She works with youth programs and will bring information and practical strategies for creating safe schools which makes it easier for all children to learn and thrive. She will facilitate a conversation about community and area needs, the role that a PFLAG chapter can play and what resources are available to help. Soup and bread will be served at 6 p.m. and the presentation will begin at 6:30. For more information e-mail Kathy at kreim@earthlink.net or locally e-mail hamiltonbitterrootpflag@yahoo.com or call 363-7656.
Dance performance
River Street Dance Theater presents “The Four Seasons and Four Temperaments” on Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton High Performing Arts Center, 327 Fairgrounds Rd. “Four Temperaments” refers to the four styles of dance presented in the second half of the show: Modern, Ballet, Tap and Hip-hop. The musical accompaniment is drawn from many sources such as Phillip Glass, Sam Amidon, The Cascadia Folk Quartet, the Swinging Bovines, Carlitos Marron, as well as two movements from the traditional work by Vivaldi. The concert includes penguins dancing with the advanced students in a piece entitled “Ice and Snow”, a “Baseball Ballet”, an Afro-Caribbean dance inspired by the students’ trip to Jamaica in 2009, and tap and hip-hop dances. There will also be a dance work “Terroir” choreographed by Angela Banchero-Kelleher from Utah Valley University, and taught to a multi-age group of teens and adults. Tickets are $8 adults, $6 seniors and students and are available at Chapter One Bookstore and at the door. Call 363-1203 for more information.
Saturday, May 21
Calibration Clinic & Private Applicator Training
A Calibration Clinic & Private Applicator Training will be held Saturday, May 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Corvallis Grange. Learn the basic information that is very important to know when treating your weeds and other pests with pesticides. You may also stop by anytime between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and someone will be happy to help you calibrate your spray equipment. Registration is required if you plan on attending the Private Applicator Training. To register and for more information call 375-6611.
Miss Ravalli County Rodeo Pageant
The Miss Ravalli County Rodeo Pageant will be held Saturday, May 21 at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. The pageant begins with Horsemanship at 10 a.m. in the main arena. The program continues at noon with indoor luncheon. The public is invited. Tickets are $5.00 per person which includes a delicious lunch, live entertainment, and admission to the speeches, style show, and coronation ceremony following. Kids five and under are free. Several great raffle prizes will be awarded to the public. Call 239-0728 or 381-5704 for questions and reservations.
Climate change presentation
Allen Barr will give a presentation on Weather and Climate Change from the perceptive of a retired government Meteorologist on Saturday, May 21 at 11 a.m. at the Stevensville Elementary Gym. Barr has a BA in Physics/Math, a BS and MS in Meteorology and worked for over 30 years as an Air Force Weather Officer and Government Meteorologist. The event is free and open to the public.
Food Co-op annual meeting
The Bitterroot Food Co-op will hold its annual membership meeting and potluck on Saturday, May 21 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Human Resource Council Conference Room, 316 N 3rd St. in Hamilton. The Co-op is taking nominations for board members, and an election will be held at the meeting. The Bitterroot Food Cooperative is a member-based organization run by a board of directors. The Co-op is in need of a strong board as well as member participation in order to move forward with its vision. Contact Denelle Pappier (dpappier@aol.com) or Alice Mariana (mariana.alicea@gmail.com) if you are interested in being on the Board. If you are not yet a member of the Co-op, contact Alice or Denelle for sign-up. There is no up front money required to become a member. All members are eligible to participate on the Board. There will be discussion of current plans (online ordering system, new membership fees, etc.) at the meeting. For more information, e-mail or call Alice and Nick at 961-4970.
A Cappella Society concert
The Montana A Cappella Society and Silk Stocking will present a Spring Concert on Saturday, May 21 at 8 p.m. at the Missoula Convention Center at Winery ($8 cover) and Sunday, May 22 a 3 p.m. at the Corvallis Untied Methodist Church (by donation). The Montana A cappella Society is a remarkable vocal ensemble from the Bitterroot valley. The Society, an all-volunteer organization of singers, performs regionally, promoting public awareness and audience appreciation for the art of a cappella singing. They will present several new arrangements written by Artistic Director Don Matlock. The concert is filled with spritely madrigals, complex jazz selections, playful compositions and soul stirring ballads. Silk Stocking, a gifted trio of women, features the signature tight harmonies of the Swing and Big Band era and will delight you with selections from Cole Porter to Duke Ellington. For more concert information call 363-5778 or www.montanaacappella.org
Sunday, May 22
Carla Green Fundraiser
“Carla’s Green’s”, a fundraiser for musician Carla Green who recently had breast cancer surgery, will take place Sunday, May 22 from noon to 8 p.m. at Ruby’s Inn and Convention Center, 4825 N. Reserve Street, Missoula. A gathering of Missoula’s favorite musicians will be performing throughout the day. There will also be catered food, no-host bar, and raffle items. The suggested donation to attend is $7. Proceeds from the event will help defray medical expenses. For more information, call 529-3875.
Saturday, June 4
March for Babies
The Hamilton March for Babies 2011 will be held Saturday, June 4 at Kiwanis Park. Registration is at 10 a.m. and walk begins at 11 a.m. The Walk is approximately 3 miles. There will be a barbecue following the walk, plus cotton candy, face painting, inflatable jumper, music and entertainment. Awards will be given to the Top 3 Teams, Top 3 Walkers and Top Family Team. Register online at: marchforbabies.org. For more information call 1-800-597-7116.
Tuesday, June 13
SVCFC summer camp
Want a great way to start off the summer? Come and enjoy Summertime@SVCFC, a summer camp for kids June 13-August 12 for kids 6-11 years old. The program offers eight weeks of fun, education, fun and exploration. Take one week or more and have a great time exploring our valley, swimming, bowling, acting, crafting, and much more. Registration starts April 18 and registration forms will be available at the following sites: local elementary schools, many downtown Hamilton businesses, the Bitterroot Public Library and here at SVCFC 515 Madison in Hamilton. Call for further info at 363-3450.
Friday, June 17
Darby Descendants Reunion
The 4th Annual “Darby Bitter Root Descendants Reunion” will be held June 17–20 at the Darby Clubhouse ( HYPERLINK “http://www.darbycommons.com” www.darbycommons.com). Plans are well underway for the “Darby Roots Reunion,” (formerly the Darby Pioneer Reunion). Whether you’re from pioneer stock or are new to Darby Tiger Country, you are invited. Special activities include: programs on “Moonshine and Lake Como Area,” “The Salish,” “Lumber & Timber Life,” “ Cowpoke Poets” and “Strong Women of the BR.” Many old-timers will recall their family connections in the Darby area. Everyone is encouraged to bring photos, exhibits, albums, scrapbooks, CDs, to share your family’s connections. Kids activities and games are being planned to keep the younger Darbarians entertained, educated and active. For more information, or to get a registration form, or if you are interested in joining the planning process, contact Bonnie Evers, bonevers@netzero.net, 821-3214; Evelyn Savochka: evie@dishmail.net; 531-0327; Helen Ann Bibler: helenann13@hughes.net, 821-3444.
Monday, July 18
UM science adventure camp
Registration is now open for “MOLLI Summer Adventures in Science: Connecting the Circle,” a summer camp for children ages 6 through 12 and their grandparents hosted by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Montana. The science day camp will run Monday and Tuesday, July 18-19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants will learn from one another in scientific exploration through classroom and field experiences, starting with the “Mr. G Science Show” with Glenn Govertsen, who has taught physics at Missoula’s Sentinel High School for more than 30 years and is a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching.
The following summer camp courses are designed for children 6 to 9 years old:
• Incredible Edible Bugs with Annika Johns, UM graduate and recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence.
• Explosive Chemistry with a team led by Amanda Lockwood, spectrUM Discovery Area educator.
• Farm to Table with Jason Mandala, Garden City Harvest community education director.
The following courses are available for children 9 to 12 years old:
• Bones & Stones with Garry Kerr, UM Department of Anthropology lecturer.
• Buzz about Bees with UM Professor Jerry Bromenshenk and Bee Alert field technician Scott Debnam.
• Robotics Sensory Garden with spectrUM Discovery Area operational manager Jessie Herbert and software engineer and guest spectrUM educator Will Bain.
The summer camp costs $100 per adult and child pair. A $20 MOLLI membership also is required for adults who wish to participate. The membership allows registration for lifelong learning courses offered through the institute each spring and autumn at UM. Those who purchase a membership for this year’s summer camp will be eligible to register for all MOLLI courses offered through June 30, 2012.
Full summer camp course descriptions, information about instructors and registration forms are online at HYPERLINK “http://www.umt.edu/molli” http://www.umt.edu/molli. For more information, call Dannette Fadness of UM’s School of Extended Studies and Lifelong Learning at 243-2905.
Friday, July 22
HHS Class of ’81 reunion
The Hamilton High School Class of 1981 will be holding its class reunion July 22-24. For list of events contact Brent Huseby at 363-4226 to leave a message for Lisa Green-Dow at 406-381-9258. Or for more information go to Facebook at Hamilton High School.
Saturday, August 27
Bitterroot Classic Triathlon
The 6th annual Bitterroot Classic Triathlon will be held Saturday, August 27 at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center. The race is a fast, fun and exciting family event held to benefit the Missoula Ronald McDonald House. Athletes race registration now open; register online at HYPERLINK “http://www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com” www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com.
Over the past five years, the Bitterroot Classic Triathlon has raised over $65,000 in support of Missoula’s Ronald McDonald House. Join in by sponsoring, volunteering or participating in this fun and worthwhile event of swimming, cycling and running to raise funds for this special place. The Bitterroot Classic Triathlon is a sprint distance race, 750yd Swim (15 laps in Bitterroot Aquatic Center pool), 20k Bike, 5k Run (followed by a children’s triathlon).
The swim takes place in the Bitterroot Aquatic Center pool, the bike portion gives racers the opportunity to take in the great views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains while racing with the cows through some of the most beautiful private property in Ravalli County. The race concludes with a double loop around the Hamilton High School. The racers entry fee is $45.00 and all activities will take place at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center. The Bitterroot Classic Triathlon has something for everybody! Volunteers interested in helping out on race day, call Lynn at 531-2684 or email at lynn@rmhmissoula.org. For more information on the Bitterroot Classic Triathlon, visit HYPERLINK “http://www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com” www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com.
Clubs and Groups
Hamilton Senior Center activities
Monday – 11:45 lunch, cloggers at 1:30 p.m.; bingo on 1st & 3rd weeks, pinochle on 2nd week, 7 p.m.
Tuesday – line dancing at 9:30 a.m., cloggers at 3 p.m.
Wednesday – 11:45 lunch, bridge at 1 p.m., cloggers at 5 p.m.
Thursday – exercise at 9 a.m.; pinochle on 3rd week, 1 p.m.
Friday – line dancing at 9:30 a.m., 11:45 lunch
Saturday – flea market every 2nd Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sunday – bridge, 1 p.m.
Stevi Senior Center activities
Mon-Friday – Lunch, 11:30 a.m.
Monday – Bridge and Special Music, noon
Monday & Saturday – Pinochle, 7 p.m.
Tuesday – Exercise class, 10-11 a.m.
2nd Tuesday – Quilters, 6:30 p.m.
Every Other Wednesday – Fiddlers at Lunch
3rd Wednesday – Special Birthday Dinner, noon, with music. Blood pressures taken.
Thursday – Exercise class, 10-11 a.m.
1st & 3rd Thursday – American Legion Bingo, 7 p.m.
For more information call the Center at 777-5681 04 777-5707.
Victor Senior Center activities
Sundays – AA meeting, 7 p.m.
Monday-Thursday – Men’s Coffee, 8:30-10 a.m.
Monday-Friday – Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Includes main course, salad bar, beverage, dessert. Senior donation $3.25, under 60 years $5.75. (RSVP 642-3320)
Tuesdays – Bingo, 7 p.m.
Wednesdays – Pinochle, 7 p.m.
Fridays – Ladies’ Coffee, 10-11 a.m.
Golden Agers
The Golden Age group meets every Friday from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at 727 S. 5th in Hamilton. If you are a senior citizen and are bored, looking for fun or just want something new to experience, attend and enjoy good food, live music, dancing and fellowship. Cost is $5. Snacks are potluck. Exercise classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m. Blood pressure is checked every first Wednesday of the month. Also on the first Wednesday of every month a potluck is held at 12:30 p.m. followed by the business meeting. Card parties are held on the second Wednesday at 7 p.m. On the last Wednesday of the month a birthday party is held at 2 p.m.
Al-Anon
Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the
North Valley Public Library. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive
drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call
721-5818.
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
TOPS Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), a weight loss support group, meets in Stevensville every Thursday at 9 a.m. at the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street. Guests are always welcome. Call Jerry Sue at 777-5355 for more information.
VFW meetings
VFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Hamilton.
Florence American Legion
The Florence American Legion Post 134 meets the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Florence Fire Hall. For further information contact Post Commander Jim Hamilton at 777-3948.
Stevensville American Legion
The Stevensville American Legion Post 94 meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Post Home on Middle Burnt Fork Road. For more information contact Jerry Esmay, 777-5517.
American Legion Auxiliary
Fort Owen Post 94, Stevensville, American Legion Auxiliary meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Call 777-4335 for location.
Corvallis American Legion
The Corvallis American Legion Post 91 meets the third Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Corvallis High School library. For further information contact Post Commander Alex Ivanoff at 961-8997 or Post Adjutant Roy Meyer, 961-4272.
Lilies of the Valley singing group
The Lilies of the Valley Ladies Ensemble welcomes you to share your time, talent, wit and humor in the joy of singing together, short programs to share with others. No auditions to participate, only your love of the language of music and the desire to sing it in melody and harmony. Come and relax Thursday evenings, 7 to 9 p.m., at 211 N. 6th St., Hamilton. For more information call Thelma, 363- 1598.
WIC clinics
A WIC clinic is offered in Hamilton Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at 205 Bedford St, Suite P, District Courthouse building in Hamilton.
The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College St. in Stevensville. The Victor clinic is open the second Monday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every other month, the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. For more information call 375-6685.
Sapphire Quilt Club The Sapphire Quilt Club meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission Street. Teaching of short cuts and easy techniques begin at 6:30 p.m. Join this fun group of people to learn about quilting. For information, contact Linda Powell at 777-1070.
Grief Support Groups
When you grieve the death of a loved one, you sometimes hide it so others think you’re over your sorrow and loss. Marcus Daly Hospice offers an opportunity to share grieving experiences and grow from them.
For the men in our community dealing with the death of a loved one, Marcus Daly Hospice offers a men’s breakfast support group. The Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast meets at 9 a.m. every second and fourth Friday of the month in the Marcus Daly Hospice dining room. Breakfast is provided for a $3 donation per person. Call 375-4752 to reserve your spot.
For anyone in our community dealing with the loss of a loved one, Tuesday afternoons from 2-3:30 p.m. a bereavement support group meets in the Marcus Daly Hospice Center living room. All are welcome.
For more information, call Cathy Palmer, LCPC, Bereavement Coordinator, at 363-6503.
Spanish conversation group
Habla Espanol? Do you travel? Do you work with Latinos? Do you just want to keep your mind sharp? If you are a beginner or just a bit rusty, join the Stevi Spanish Conversation Group at the North Valley Public Library Wednesdays from 6 to 7 pm to brush up on your Spanish language skills. This is not a class to learn to speak Spanish. It will be an informal, weekly gathering to practice speaking the Spanish language. The focus will be role playing for situations experienced during travel and everyday life. For more information, call the library at 777-5061.
Soroptimists
Soroptimist International of Hamilton meets the first, second and third Thursdays of each month at noon at BJ’s Restaurant. Soroptimist is a worldwide organization for women in management and professions working through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women. All interested business women are encouraged to attend.
Rotary Club
The Hamilton Rotary Club meets Mondays, 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. First Street, Hamilton. For information about Rotary, call 363-2960.
PFLAG Chapter
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) meets every third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, in the basement, 600 S. 3rd St., Hamilton in order to offer support to families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the local community. Chapter representatives Dr. Michael Moran and Terry Moran list one of PFLAG’s primary objectives as maintaining families in loving relationships and to keep families together.
For more information contact Terry Moran, 363-7656.
Center for Spiritual Living
The Center for Spiritual Living, Bitterroot Valley meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at the South Valley Child & Family Center, 515 Madison St. in Hamilton. Learn and share while celebrating our individual and collective spiritual growth. Services are based on Ernest Holmes’ Science of Mind philosophy and support positive global transformation through personal spiritual practice (visit the website: UnitedCentersforSpiritualLiving.org/). Transportation to the Sunday gatherings can be arranged from several communities in the Bitterroot Valley. For more information, contact Barb at 375-9996 or Dave at 381-2355; or email: HYPERLINK “mailto:BitterrootCSL@gmail.com/” BitterrootCSL@gmail.com/.
Legion bingo
B-I-N-G-O! Join American Legion Fort Owen Post 94, in Stevensville, for free popcorn and an entertaining evening of bingo. The action starts at 7 p.m. at the Senior Center in Stevensville on the first and third Thursdays of the month. All prizes are cash and proceeds go to support American Legion youth activities.
Valley Veterans Services Ever wonder what VA benefits you’re entitled too? Valley Veterans Service Center provides free assistance to veterans and their dependents in filing claims with the VA. Valley Veterans Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by for a visit or call for an appointment at 363-9838. The center is located at 299 Fairgrounds Road, Suite 4 in Hamilton.
Veteran-to-Veteran (V2V) meetings The V2V outreach group meets every Friday morning at 8 a.m. in the backroom at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. These informal meetings are for all veterans. Many veterans have both unresolved and resolved issues from their experiences in the military that impact their lives. At the meetings participants can discuss whatever they want and the outreach group gives veterans an opportunity to get together to share information and talk about issues. For further information contact Dan Mayer, 360-5435, from the Bitterroot Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America.
Vietnam Veterans of America
The Bitterroot Chapter #938 of the Vietnam Veterans of America meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 319 N. 3rd. Vietnam era veterans often need assistance with problems and issues and many have similar stories. The Bitterroot Chapter VVA is your organization to provide the opportunity to obtain and share information, to organize grass root activities, lend a helping hand, and offer assistance to all veterans in dealing with the Veterans Administration. Also, through the National VVA organization, the local chapter supplies input to state and federal government legislators on issues important to veterans. For more information contact Bill Decker at 369-2252.
MOPS group The Bitterroot MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group meets at Lone Rock Bible Church, around the corner from Lone Rock School, just off Eastside Hwy, down Three Mile Creek Road, between Stevensville and Florence. The group meets every first and third Tuesday, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Age-appropriate childcare including snacks, stories and activities, is available for children up through age five. For more information about Bitterroot MOPS, contact Shauna Pernsteiner at 777-5189.
Waldorf Inspired Parent-Child Waldorf Inspired Parent-Child meets Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for creative play, songs, stories, crafts, cooking, baking and nature walks. All families, expectant parents, and children birth to 6 years are welcome. For more information and location contact Kim at 369-0213. This Early Childhood Education Program as well as seasonal workshops and festivals for the community are sponsored by The Bitterroot School. Visit www.thebitterrootschool.com and www.whywaldorfworks.com to find out more about this and other programs.
Veterans affairs clinics
Andrea Montee, Service Officer for the Montana Veterans Affairs Division in Missoula, will be available to veterans and their dependents that have questions or need to file a claim with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs on the second Tuesday of every month from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Stevensville Town Council Chambers and from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Job Service office. She will also be at the Job Service office every fourth Wednesday of the month from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. For more information call 542-2501.
Trap Club
The Hamilton Trap Club is open every Wednesday and Sunday from 12 noon until dusk unless people get done shooting trap before dusk. For more information contact Dick or Cheryl Wallis at 546-3856. The Trap Club is located at the Hamilton Airport.
Bitterroot Toastmasters
Bitterroot Toastmasters Club meets Wednesdays from 12 to 1 p.m. at Perkins Restaurant in Hamilton with optional no host lunch before or after. Meetings are designed to build confidence and skills in communication and leadership. Guests are welcome.
Toddler story time
It’s never too early to introduce your baby or toddler to the wonderful world of books and reading. Together you will discover the joy of songs, finger plays, simple books and bouncing rhymes. The toddler story time for babies through age 2 meets every Friday at 10:30 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Toddler story time lasts approximately 45 minutes. For more information, call 363-1670.
Safety seat fitting station
Mildenberger Motors will be teaching families how to safely transport their children on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The dealership will serve as the site of a monthly child safety seat checkup event to help ensure that children are using car seats, booster seats and seat belts the right way on every ride. At these events, nationally certified child passenger safety technicians will teach families how to transport children correctly. The events are open to the public. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. To make an appointment call Lonie Hutchison at 546-9640 or 258-3880.
American Sign Language Group
An American Sign Language Bible discussion group meets Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 8 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall, 1115 S. Reserve St., Missoula. Discussion topic is “Keep Yourselves in God’s Love.” For more information contact Tom Gacek, 777-0747, HYPERLINK “mailto:aslgal@rocketmail.com” aslgal@rocketmail.com.
Elks dinner
The Elks Club at 203 State Street in Hamilton serves dinner to the public every Wednesday at 6 p.m. The $8.50 complete meal includes dessert and coffee. Proceeds help to aid Elks charities. For more information call 363-3031.
Sabre Soccer meetings
Stevensville Sabre Soccer meetings are held the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Main Street Association building in Stevensville. The general public and all interested parties are welcome to attend. For more information contact Brooke Flynn at 880-2903.
Bitterroot Connections
Bitterroot Connections referral group (a sub-network of the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network) meets monthly for lunch from noon to 1 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Hamilton Perkins Restaurant. Looking to grow your business? Come and meet a group of supportive women who get to know each other through member spotlight presentations, educational topics, and the referral and promotion of each other’s businesses. Call Sue Gust at 360-0820 or e-mail suegust@kikapaprika.com for more information or visit www.discovermbn.com for additional opportunities.
Empowerment group
The Bitterroot Empowerment group (a sub-network of the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network) meets the first Thursday of every month at Perkins Restaurant in Hamilton from noon to 1 p.m. Participate in an experience that can help you reach your goals, both personal and business related. Programs have a wide range of interest varying from month to month but the feeling of support and camaraderie will remain constant. Call Jane Foster at 406-531-9556 or 777-2280 or email Jane@fosterandfosterfs.com for more information or visit www.discovermbn.com for additional opportunities.
Fiber Arts Guild
Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild meets the last Saturday of every month. If you are a wool spinner or work with fibers, contact Shelley at 777-5205 or Marty at 777-2421 for location or information.
PEP Sessions Are you interested in exploring career options suited to you? Attend a PEP Session at the Bitterroot College Program (BCP). PEP stands for Personal Employment Plan and is designed to assist people with career exploration, education planning, and job search preparation. PEP Sessions take place on Thursdays, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Bitterroot College Program, located at the Ravalli Entrepreneurship Center, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. There is no appointment or registration necessary. For more information, contact The Bitterroot College Program at 375-0100 or Literacy Bitterroot at 363-2900. Or, visit the Bitterroot College Program website at HYPERLINK “http://www.umt.edu/bcp” http://www.umt.edu/bcp.
Community dinners
The kitchen’s open and the food is great! South Valley Child and Family Center’s Suppertime program is open for business and the community is invited for free family-style meals Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. at 515 Madison in Hamilton. These wonderful meals are for families, individuals and those in need of a good meal and community connections. If you need further info, would like to donate, volunteer or would like to be a part of the Culinary Program for middle or high school students, call 363-3450.
Women Helping Women
Want to be a healthily you? Looking for a support group to help you lose unwanted pounds? Women Helping Women meets Tuesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. at the Conner Wesleyan Church, 4674 Hwy 93, seven miles south of Darby. For more information call 821-3570.
Canyon View MOPS MOPS International (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging and developing mothers to reach their full potential. The Canyon View MOPS group meets at Canyon View Church off Skalkaho on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Jen at 375-9183.
Men’s Bereavement Breakfast
Marcus Daly Hospice sponsors a monthly Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast on the second and fourth Friday of each month at 9 a.m. in the Marcus Daly Hospice Dining Room. This is a special opportunity for men coping with the loss of a spouse or loved one to gather and share their journey of healing. Informal discussions are led by a trained Bereavement Facilitator and cover topics such as, embracing our grief, personal growth, forming new relationships, and more. Interested parties can contact Cathy Palmer, MFT, Marcus Daly Hospice Bereavement Coordinator at 363-6503. A donation of $3.00 for breakfast is greatly appreciated.
Mindful Recovery support group A peer-directed support group meets Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. at the Bison Internet Café, 164 S. 3rd in Hamilton. People in recovery from mental illness and/or substance abuse or addiction can find support and mentor help from group participants. All interested persons are invited to attend. The Café is closed during meeting times. For more information, leave a message at 363-2222.
Darby food collection
The Darby Bread Box is collecting canned chili beans, dried beans, and jelly for the month of May. Donations can be dropped off at People’s Market or Bitterroot Community Credit Union in Darby. If anyone can help, call or leave a message at 821-2081.
Darby Library story time
Reading to young children helps develop good reading skills while igniting their imaginations. The Darby Community Public Library offers two Preschool Story Times every Monday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. All children from age one to five are welcome to come with a caregiver for interactive stories, games, songs, and fun activities that focus on letter and number recognition, and the joy of reading.
Acoustic music jam sessions
Everyone is invited to the music jam sessions at the Rocky Mountain Grange Hall south of Hamilton each Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. Players of all levels are invited to bring their guitars, mandolins, harmonicas, fiddles, bass fiddles, banjos, dobros, or other acoustic instruments. Music ranges from old-time country to western, to swing, to blues, to whatever. There is no charge for admission. You don’t have to be a musician to attend. Folks who just want to listen are encouraged to come – it’s always more fun with an audience. The Grange Hall is located at 1436 S. 1st Street (Hwy 93), just south of the Valley Pet Clinic. For more information call Clem at 961-4949.
Open season riding Open season riding has started at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. Come in and sign up for the season or on a single ride basis. The individual memberships are $30; family memberships are $50; and single ride option is $5. The fairgrounds are open daily, and the season will run from now until the fall, weather permitting. If you need more information call the fairgrounds office at 363-3411, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Book discussions
The Bitterroot Public Library offers a “Brown Bag It” Book discussion group on the last Thursday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. in the West Meeting Room. Newcomers are welcome.
May 26 – “Homer and Langley: A Novel” by E.L. Doctorow,
June 30 – “Half Broke Horses: A True-Life Novel” by Jeannette Walls
July 28 – “Cutting for Stone: A Novel” by Abraham Verghesa
August 25 – “Daughter of Fortune” by Isabel Allende
September 30 – “The Innocent Man” by John Grisham
October 27 – “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain
November 17 – “Siddhartha” by Herman Hess
December – “A Hope in the Unseen” by Ron Suskind
Grace Lutheran Preschool registration
Grace Lutheran Learning Center in Hamilton is accepting preschool registrations. Fall preschool starts in September and will run through May. There are half day and full day openings. Call 363-1924; space is limited.
Donations sought for summer camp Donations of your gently used/in good shape skateboards, roller skates, bicycles, scooters and unicycles are needed for the South Valley Child and Family Center’s Summertime For Kids Summer Camp. Call 363-3450 for more information or drop donations off at 515 Madison in Hamilton (only good, usable equipment, please) by May 27. Donations of helmets or pads are also welcome. This is a tax-deductible donation.
Habitat for Humanity seeking donations
Ravalli County Habitat for Humanity is accepting donations for its yard sale and silent auction to be held in June. Items can be dropped off on Saturdays at Family Storage on Riverside Cutoff Road (behind Montana Westgate Realty) in Hamilton. To arrange for drop off, call Tamara Bilinovich at 369-1233 or Sheri Jones at 369-1047 or Mari Meyers 375-2527 or email: HYPERLINK “mailto:ravallihabitat@yahoo.com” ravallihabitat@yahoo.com. Donations will be accepted until setup day on Thursday, June 2. Habitat for Humanity relies on your donations to help make affordable housing in Ravalli County. Volunteers are also welcome by calling the above numbers.
Daly Mansion donations sought
The Daly Mansion Preservation Trust is soliciting donations of items for its May 20-21 Tent Sale taking place on the grounds of the Margaret Daly Memorial Arboretum & Botanic Gardens-Daly Mansion, 251 Eastside Hwy, Hamilton. The Mansion will receive donations of saleable items May 10 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you have questions or would like more information, call Darlene at 363-6004, 4#. Please – no items that need to be plugged in or batteries. All donors will receive a tax donation receipt. The Tent Sale is a fundraising rummage sale to support the operations of the Daly Mansion and the Margaret Daly Memorial Arboretum & Botanic Gardens.
Golf Tournament signups
Time is running out for the “early bird” sign up fee for the Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce/Lions Club Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 21 at the Hamilton Golf Course. The registration fee is $70 per player and $350 per team. Make your checks payable to the Lions Club, or call the Chamber for credit card payment at 363-2400. And remember, you don’t have to have a 5-person team to play!
Recycled art show
Art City’s 13th Annual Recycled Art show in celebration of Earth Day is now on display. Created from discarded materials and found objects, the art work in the show is a whimsical commentary on what would otherwise be considered junk. This work by a dozen local artists represents a thoughtful and often humorous take on our “throw-away society.” The work may be seen through May 28. Art City is a co-operatively managed gallery featuring work by local artists. It is located in an historic downtown Hamilton building at 407 W. Main St. Spring open hours are Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and other days by chance or appointment. For more information contact Art City at 363-4764.
Library story time
The North Valley Public Library Story Time, a program for preschool age children will meet on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. in the Community Room of the library. The special Story Time theme for this summer is “Nature’s Little Explorers.” Children will read books, have a nutritious snack, and make a craft or do an activity outside. Contact Patricia at 777-5061 for more information.
Troop box donation collection
American Legion Auxiliary Fort Owen Post 94 will be packing boxes for our troops on Friday, May 20. Donations are appreciated and can be dropped off with Margi at Valley Drug, Stevensville Post Office, North Valley Public Library, Super 1 Foods, Bitterroot Star and Three Mile Trading Co. For details contact Margi Leininger, 239-0544.