Darby Bread Box food collection
Darby Bread Box food bank is collecting canned fruit, bath soap, toilet tissue and pasta for the months of January and February. The donations can be dropped off at People’s Market and the Bitterroot Credit Union in Darby.
Cat spaying program available
It may seem that warmer weather is still out of reach, but now is the time to “beat the heat” by spaying your cat in advance of her heat cycle and preventing unwanted litters before “kitten season” arrives this spring, a time when shelters see large numbers of unwanted litters being born. To help reduce the number of homeless cats, Fox Hollow Animal Project is offering a “Beat the Heat’ promotion sponsored by PetSmart Charities. During February, Fox Hollow Animal Project will spay 100 female cats for a special rate of $20.
Spaying and neutering is one of the most effective ways to reduce the homeless pet population. While some worry that their pet may be too young for this procedure, spaying and neutering is safe for young kittens, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Spaying a female cat before her first heat cycle is actually beneficial, rather than waiting until after one heat cycle has occurred. The procedure is known to improve the health of the pet, including a reduced risk of certain reproductive cancers and infections.
“Many people don’t know that female cats can have as many as three litters a year, and kittens can breed as young as four months old, says Marilynn Taylor, Vice-President/Treasurer. “It’s our goal to bring female cats in before they go into heat and become pregnant. Our ‘Beat the Heat’ promotion is a fun way to educate the community and prevent unwanted litters.”
This special rate is even less than the organization’s normal low-cost price and is available to all residents of Western Montana. Cat owners who wish to take advantage of this offer must mention the “Beat the Heat” promotion when they schedule their appointment. The promotion is based on availability. Visit www.foxhollowanimalproject.org or call 273-6007 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Fair theme contest
Everyone is invited to submit entries for the 2012 Ravalli County Fair theme to rcfairgrounds@gmail.com or Ravalli County Fairgrounds, 100 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton MT 59840. Deadline for submissions is Friday, February 10. Winning theme will be chosen by the Fair Commission at its February meeting. The winner will receive a season pass to the 2012 Ravalli County Fair, a VIP parking pass and VIP seating for all arena events.
Poster contest
High-school students are invited to submit original artwork for the annual Love Is Respect poster contest sponsored by the Ravalli County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. The winning artwork will be featured on the promotional poster for Supporters of Abuse Free Environments, Inc. (SAFE) and distributed throughout the valley. There will also be cash prizes for first, second, and third place entries.
High-school students interested in applying their creativity to the promotion of healthy relationships and the prevention of dating violence are encouraged to participate in the poster contest. This year’s theme is Healthy Relationships Encourage Growth. Submissions must be original two-dimensional artwork of any medium and submitted on 8.5 x 11 paper. Artwork should be submitted to SAFE or your art teacher by Friday, February 17. All entries must include the artist’s name, phone number, and school or address on the back of the piece.
For more information on how to enter, contact Wendy or Sonya at SAFE at 363-2793.
Soroptimist candy sale
Soroptimist International of Hamilton will hold its See’s Valentine Candy Sale through February 14. Look for the See’s Mobile in the First Security Bank Parking lot. Come early for best selection and remember: “All you need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” (Charles M. Schulz).
All proceeds support the community projects of Soroptimist. For further information contact Marcia Babowicz at 369-0915.
Free tax preparation
Free tax preparation for low to moderate income taxpayers of any age is available at the Stevensville Senior Center through April 14 on Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For appointment call 777-5681.
DCPL children’s events
Students and homeschoolers are invited to the Darby Community Public Library for special events in February. The library will host the Montana Historical Society footlocker entitled, “Gold, Silver, Coal: Oh MY! Mining Montana’s Wealth” the week of February 13 with field trips for hands-on learning. Call the library at 821-4771 for the field trip schedule. February is also I Love to Read Month! All children are invited to read in the Darby Community Public Library after school for prizes.
Stevi Civic club meeting rescheduled
The February meeting of the Stevensville Civic Club will be held Thursday, February 23 at noon at the Fellowship Hall of the Stevensville Methodist Church. This is the annual membership meeting and Darlene and John Grove will be honored. For more information call Robin Holcomb, President, at 777-5553.
Daffodil Days
The American Cancer Society Daffodil Days sales drive will conclude on Feb. 20, with delivery of the flowers on March 19. Residents and businesses not contacted by a Daffodil Days sales representative place an order for daffodils by contacting Candy Zier at 239-1594.
Wednesday, February 8
NVPL Storytime
Storytime will be held Wednesday, February 8 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville. Enjoy an enriching and engaging storytime and craft hour! Storytime is an important tool for developing literacy and social skills and creates an early love for reading and the library. This week’s theme is Love Bugs! Listen to “I Love Bugs” by Emma Dodd and create a colorful love bug to take home. A healthy and delicious snack is always provided. Contact Caitlin at 777-5061 for more info.
NARFE luncheon
The National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE Bitterroot Chapter) will hold the monthly no host luncheon meeting on Wednesday, February 8 at 11:30 a.m. in Perkins Restaurant, 1285 N. 1st St, Hamilton. The speaker will be Kirk Thompson whose topic is “Amtrak Overview”. All members, guests and anyone interested in becoming a member are welcome. Contact Warren Neyenhuis at 546 6706.
Photo contest deadline
Due to the overwhelming response to the Ernst Peterson Photograph Montana Contest and the subsequent lack of materials available in the valley, the deadline has been extended to Wednesday, February 8. Available mats were bought out all over the Bitterroot, so the Museum has purchased more online and will have them available by Tuesday, the 7th of February! Be sure to come in soon, materials are limited! The new deadline to get your photo in is Wednesday, February 8. The exhibit will be open to the public on Saturday, February 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The judging and awards ceremony will still be held on Thursday, March 1. Come pick your favorite for the People’s Choice Award and see who else has won ribbons and prizes. For more information, call the Museum at 363-3338 or email sarahmrcm@qwestoffice.net.
Thursday, February 9
‘Welcome Baby’ group
Welcome Baby meets Thursday, February 9 from 10 a.m. to noon at the North Valley Family Center, 5501 Hwy 93 N, Suite 3, Florence Business Center, next to Town Pump. This month’s theme is “Healthy Lifestyles/Mama Exercises” presented by Brenda Dahl of Physical Therapy Specialists of Florence. Learn the healthy exercises before and after your baby comes, and which exercises to avoid. Welcome Baby is for new and expecting parents. Come bring your baby and meet other new or expecting parents in the North Valley. Welcome Baby is free and meets on the second Thursday of each month. Call 273-0142 for more information.
Women Newcomers Club
The Bitterroot Women Newcomers Club will meet on Thursday, February 9 at 10:15 a.m. at the First Christian Church on Fairgrounds Road in Hamilton. Charlene Stevens, Volunteer Coordinator for RSVP, will speak about the Coupon Drive for Military Families and other RSVP opportunities. For more information contact bitterrootnewcomers@yahoo.com or 777-0377.
Green Thumbs Up
The Green Thumbs Up garden club will meet on Thursday, February 9 at 2 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room, downstairs in the Bitterroot Public Library, Hamilton. Rod Daniel, who has been growing organic vegetables in the Bitterroot Valley for 20 years, will lead an interactive discussion on “Building a Biologically Diverse Garden Ecosystem.” Rod will discuss practical applications for Organic Integrated Pest Management, including crop rotations, beneficial habitats, pest-resistant cultivars, biologically active soils, intercropping and more. Audience participation is encouraged. For further information, telephone Susan Duff, 961-5455.
Stevensville Museum meeting
The Stevensville Historical Museum will have the annual general meeting on Thursday, February 9 at 4:30 p.m. at the Museum building, 517 Main Street. The election of officers will be held. New volunteers are always needed. If you are interested in helping with the Museum projects, contact Stacey at 777-5126, Ruth at 777-3201 or Dora at 777-3239.
HHS Choral Department evening
The Hamilton High School Chorale Department will hold a dinner performance on Thursday, February 9 at the Cornerstone Bible Church, 280 Fairgrounds Road. A dinner of chicken parmesan or spaghetti with dessert and beverage will be served at 5:45 p.m. Cost is $15, or have dessert and beverage only at 8 p.m. for $8. Presale tickets only are available at the Hamilton High School main office.
Stevi Council meeting
The Stevensville Town Council will meet on Thursday, February 9 at 7 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 206 Buck. Agenda items include a decision regarding the water/sewer bill for the Stevensville Historic Museum, further discussion/decision regarding use of town attorney, requirement of town attorney to attend council meetings, appointment of Stephanie Mapelli as Treasurer and budget amendment to fund the position. Complete agenda is available at the Town Hall, 206 Buck.
BPL Fellowship Club
The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club will meet on Thursday, February 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to discuss “A Path with Heart: A Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life” by Jack Kornfield, Ph.D.
Beloved Western Buddhist master, psychologist, and seasoned meditation teacher, Jack Kornfield shares his personal, practical wisdom, garnered from 25 years of practicing and teaching the path of awakening, as he guides self-searchers to a simplicity of perception that brings alive spiritual practice, peace, and truth in their daily lives.
Although written from a Buddhist perspective, this book will appeal to anyone interested in living an authentic life. Like the Buddha, Kornfield insists that we must be “a lamp unto ourselves.” He teaches the reader how to stop the war with oneself and make peace, and name one’s demons in order to gain power over them. To live a genuine spiritual life in this confusing world, points out Kornfield, we must bring our full attention to life and “make certain that our path is connected with the heart.” The author also shows how our liberation and happiness “arise from our own deep knowing.”
Jack Kornfield has trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India and Burma, and is a founding teacher of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, and Spirit Rock Center in California. He has taught meditation internationally since 1974. His 12 books include: After the Ecstasy; the Laundry, and his latest books, Buddha’s Instructions for Hard Times, and The Wise Heart: A Guide to the Universal Teachings of Buddhist Psychology.
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. All paths and traditions are honored. Call 363-1670, or email jacostant@gmail.com for more information.
Tea Party Patriots
Ravalli County Tea Party Patriots will meet Thursday, February 9 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). Scott Aspenlieder, candidate for Montana Secretary of State, will present his ideas for Montana and answer questions about voting rights, developing our natural resources, and job creation. All are welcome. Contact Jennine Jones, 381-0314, for more information.
Ski club
Steve Karkanen, director of the West Central Avalanche Center, will speak to members of the Bitterroot Cross Country Ski Club about the current snowpack and recent local avalanches. Attend this informative and entertaining program and learn more about the conditions the can produce an avalanche. The meeting will be on Thursday, February 9 at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church at 1220 West Main, Hamilton. Tickets for the annual Extravaganza drawing will be sold prior to the meeting. Be one of the five lucky winners and help support the costs of grooming the Chief Joseph Ski Area trails. For more information call Ginny at 461-4829.
Selway-Pintlar Backcountry Horsemen
Selway-Pintlar Wilderness Backcountry Horsemen (and women) is a group of hard-working volunteers dedicated to preserving backcountry trails. Join them to share the effort, fun, and love for the wilderness. The next general meeting will be on Thursday, February 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the USFS conference room, 1801 N. 1st St., Hamilton. They will be planning summer trail work and getting ready for the upcoming Montana Backcountry Horsemen State Convention. For any questions, call Linda, at 961-1435.
Friday, February 10
Toddler Time
Ready!Set!Play! Toddler Time will be held Friday, February 10 from 19:30 a.m. to 12 noon at North Valley Family Center. Come enjoy story time and arts and crafts with your toddler. This month’s theme is Winter and Family and Friends. Listen to a story, play a game and make a craft relevant to the story. A snack is provided. The North Valley Family Center is located at 5501 Hwy 93 N, Suite 3, Florence Business Center, in Florence, behind the Town Pump. Call 273-0142 for more information.
Quilt show
An Affair of the heART, Art Quilt Show and Sale, sponsored by In Good Company of Hamilton, will be held on Friday, February 10 from 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, February 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, February 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bedford Building, 223 S. Second, Hamilton. Admission charge is $3.00. The show will feature a “Trunk Show” of quilts made by the Montana Bricolage Artists. Art quilts are original in design and are a personal expression of color, design, and technique. For information call 363-4064.
South Valley Pachyderm Club
Montana Representative, Pat Connell, Republican from HD 87, will be speaking at the Friday, February 10 meeting of the South Valley Pachyderm Club. The club meets at 12 noon on the second and fourth Fridays at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. First Street, in Hamilton. The South Valley Pachyderm Club is an officially recognized allied organization of the Republican Party. Members of the public are welcome.
Stevi school music center dedication
Stevensville Schools would like to invite you to help celebrate the completion of the new Music Center/Kitchen Facility at a dedication ceremony on Friday, February 10 at 6:45 p.m. The dedication will kick off in the multipurpose room with a couple of (very short) speeches followed by tours of the facility with cake and refreshments. Coinciding with this event is a Girls’ Basketball game. There will be a delay between the JV and Varsity game to provide time for the community to celebrate this occasion. Plan on staying to enjoy this student activity as admission for this event will be free.
Hunger and homelessness forum
Local experts from organizations that help the hungry and homeless will share their knowledge and insights at an evening meeting on Friday, Feb. 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th in Hamilton.
The public is invited to hear their observations at “Hunger and Homelessness in the Bitterroot: A Community Conversation.” The event will offer people an opportunity to become better informed about these problems in our area.
Presenters are Judy Williams, director of Haven House food bank; Bart Bartkowski, president of the Darby Bread Box food bank; Gary Locke of The Lighthouse; Patty West, county director for the Department of Public Health and Human Services; Chris Hoffman, Ravalli County Sheriff; and Mike Kibler, executive director of Ravalli County Habitat for Humanity.
Each presenter will briefly discuss the current needs their organization serves and how those needs may have changed in the current economy, along with other observations about problems and trends from their organization’s perspective. A question-and-answer session will follow the last presentation, and attendees will be welcome to informally converse about the issues.
The topics of chronic unemployment, underemployment, foreclosures, low per capita income, and increased demand at food banks are at the top of people’s minds during the holidays but otherwise remain almost invisible to a lot of us, said Pat Vaughan, an organizer for the evening. “The hope is that this event will lead to further conversation and action,” he said.
Everyone is welcome to this free event and refreshments will be served. St. Francis Social Justice Commission is sponsoring the event. More information is available from Vaughan at 363-6150.
Gallery talk
Teresa Garland Warner will present a free gallery talk on Friday, February 10 at 7 p.m. at River’s Mist Gallery in Stevensville. Warner will be discussing the techniques used and her inspiration for her work. Come early and view her show, “The Many Facets of Mountains” featuring oils and pastels. This event is open to all and refreshments will be served. Warner’s show runs through the Feb. 28. The gallery is located at 317 Main Street in Stevensville. For more information call 777-0520.
Golden Age Club
Knowing that we’re never too old to celebrate Valentine’s Day, the Golden Age Club will choose a Valentine Sweetheart couple at the regular Friday night dance on February 10, and honor them with corsages and a Grand March around the hall. Dancing begins at 7:30 p.m. Bob Olson’s band, the new Bitter Root Five, plays that evening. On February 17, Dick Reinbold’s band furnishes the music; the Valley Rhythm Boys play on February 24th.
Saturday, February 11
Flea market
There will be a flea market on Saturday, February 11 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4TH Street. There will be antiques, collectibles, arts and crafts, new and used items and much more. Food will be available. Rent a table for $5.00 by calling April Adams at 363-0112 or the Center at 363-5181.
Travelers’ Rest Storytelling Series
Visit Travelers’ Rest State Park near Lolo and engage in the age-old Salish tradition of sharing history through storytelling during the cold winter months. The one-hour programs begin at 11 a.m. on all Saturdays through the end of March.
February programs include:
Feb. 11: Powwow Culture, Stephen Smallsalmon, Salish Tribal Elder
Feb. 18: Irish Stories, Bernadette Sweeney, University of Montana Oral Historian
Feb. 25: Hidden Gems of Lewis & Clark, Hal Stearns, Historian
For a complete line-up of the Winter Storytelling Series, visit the Travelers’ Rest website at travelersrest.org email info@travelersrest.org or call 273-4253.
Admission to the programs is $4 per adult, and children under 18 and all current Travelers’ Rest Preservation and Heritage Association (TRPHA) members are free. All programs are held at the Holt Museum and Visitors Center at Travelers’ Rest State Park. To reach the park, travel approximately 1/2 mile west of Lolo on Highway 12.
Valentine HeArts and Crafts Market
Where can you find great food, wonderful gifts and help benefit a non-profit that serves Bitterroot kids? Come to South Valley Child and Family Center’s Valentine HeArts and Crafts Market on Saturday, February 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 515 Madison in Hamilton where you will find great breakfast and lunch items, a super raffle, flea market and Montana-made arts and crafts and learn more about what SVCFC does in our community. Free admission. Call 363-3450 for further info.
Family Fun Day
Family Fun Day will be held Saturday, February 11 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the North Valley Family Center, 5501 Hwy 93, Suite 3, Florence Business Center. Escape from the house and bring your kids for activities and fun for the whole family. Lunch will be served. Call 273-0142 for more information.
Vegetarian Society
The Western MT Vegetarian Society, a regional plant-based food society,
will host a vegetarian potluck on Saturday, February 11, at 12 noon at 102 McLeod Ave., corner of Higgins Ave., Missoula. The public is welcome; bring a plant-based entree and enjoy great food and people at this event. More information, email Sue at NewDawnMT@gmail.com.
BPL family activity
Weather Stations Family Day for ages 8-13 (everyone welcome!) will be held Saturday, February 11 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the west meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. Investigate rain, wind, clouds, make some weather instruments, and create a poem! Call to register at 363-1670.
FCS Café Chocolat
On Saturday, February 11, the Florence Carlton Music Boosters will be hosting their 11th Annual Le Café Chocolat in the Florence Carlton School gymnasium. Come and enjoy fabulous desserts while you are treated to an amazing live performance by the Florence Carlton High School Choirs. There will be two shows, 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended. For ticket information call Mary Beth Edens at 273-6598. All proceeds support the Florence Carlton School music programs.
Valentine show and dance
River Street Dance Theater will present “Hearts and Souls,” a Valentine’s Show, on Saturday, February 11 at 7 p.m. at the studio, 421 N. 2nd St., Hamilton. There will be a variety of dances about different kinds of love which will include ballet, modern, and tap styles. After the show there will be country and blues music by Brevy, Eric and Dave so everyone can dance. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided and refreshments will be available. Come and enjoy the show and then dance with that special someone. Admission is $15 adults, $7 seniors and students. Phone 363-1203 for more information.
Contra Dance
A Contra Dance will be held Saturday, February 11 from 7 to 10 p.m. (6:30 practice session for new dancers) at the Rocky Mountain Grange, 1436 S. 1st St, (south of Hamilton on Hwy 93, east side). The caller will be Derek Gallagher will live music provided by Celtic Knots. Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family. Dancers need no experience, all dances are taught, and singles are welcome. The even is fragrance-free. For more information call 642-3601.
Valentine’s dance
A Valentine’s dance will be held Saturday, February 11 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Hamilton Eagles. Dance to the music of the Jim Snow Band. Cost is $5. The event is sponsored by the non-profit Bitterroot Dancers. For information call 363-6650 or 381-1392.
Sunday, February 12
Accordion Association
The Five Valley Accordion Association will hold its next jam/dance session on Sunday, February 12 at the “Jokers Wild” in Missoula (North Reserve) from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $3.00 for members, $4.00 for non-members, and free for performing musicians. Live music is performed by accordions, guitars, banjos, bass, and drums. Come join in on the fun, music, dancing and the fellowship. For more information call Mike Jones at 642-9693.
MOPS Valentine Dinner
MOPS will hold a Valentine Hearts Dinner on Sunday, February 12 at 5:30 p.m. with a showing of “The Shop Around the Corner” with James Steward and Margaret Sullivan at 6:30 p.m. at Lone Rock Bible Church, 1142 Three Mile Creek Road, Stevensville. Cost is $25 couple, $15 single. Childcare and a memorable photo included. Contact Whitney Alexander, 210-9567 or evynnesmommy@aol.com. The menu includes Brie en Croute, Chicken Cordon Bleu w/rice pilaf or Seafood Alfredo over Linguine, or without seafood (vegetarian), Salad, Glazed Carrots and Roasted Broccoli, Mini Cakes served a la mode, coffee, tea, or iced tea. All food is lovingly prepared by the MOPS moms. Reservations are requested so the women know how much to prepare.
Lone Rock park board
The Lone Rock Division of the Ravalli County Park Board will meet Sunday, February 12 at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Fire Hall. The public is welcome.
Monday, February 13
Stevi school menu
Feb. 13-17
Monday: Breakfast – Cereal, fruit, toast, milk; Lunch – Mac & cheese, peas & carrots, peaches, bread & butter, milk
Tuesday: Breakfast – Pancake on a stick, fruit, toast, milk; Lunch – Chicken drumsticks, mashed potatoes, gravy, apples, bread & butter, chocolate or regular milk
Wednesday: Breakfast – Danish, fruit, toast, milk; Lunch – Sloppy Joes, taters, mandarin oranges, bread & butter, milk
Thursday: Breakfast – Fruit bars, fruit, toast, milk; Lunch – Ham & cheese, sandwich, potato salad, kiwi, bread & butter, milk
Friday: No school.
Rotary Club
Montana Senator Bob Lake, (R) District 44, will be speaking at the February 13 meeting of the Hamilton Rotary Club. The club meets Monday noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. This meeting is open to the public. For further information call 363-2960.
Wednesday, February 15
Photography class
A Digital Photography class instructed by Bain Robinson, Corvallis High School Librarian, will be held Wednesday, February 15 from 6 to 7 p.m. on the main floor of Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. Bring your camera and manual.
Valley Christian info night
Valley Christian School is hosting its annual High School Information Night on Wednesday, February 15 at 7 p.m. The event starts in the North Building auditorium. Students and parents are invited to come learn about the excellent academics, Advance Placement classes, sports programs, extracurricular activities and clubs, missions, trips and more. Come discover how Valley Christian School combines excellent academics with a biblical worldview. Valley Christian School is an interdenominational Christian school located at 2526 Sunset Lane, Missoula. For more information call 549-0482.