Darby Bread Box
The Darby Bread Box is collecting the following items: turkey or chicken stuffing, pumpkin pie mix, soup broth and olives. Drop off the donated items at People’s Market and the Bitterroot Credit Union in Darby. All donations are appreciated.
Volunteer opp
Habitat for Humanity of Ravalli County is in need of volunteers to help build a new home on Fridays and Saturdays at 105 Mission Street in Stevensville. Call the Building Volunteer Coordinator at 207-0247 for more information.
AARP seeking volunteers
AARP Taxaide, the largest volunteer income tax assistance and preparation service, is seeking volunteers in the Stevensville and Hamilton areas. This program provides free income tax assistance to seniors and low/moderate income individuals. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. You do not need to be a member of AARP to participate in this program. Volunteers will receive free training with emphasis on electronic filing. Upon completion of training volunteer will become IRS certified counselors. Training for these positions will be held in Hamilton, at the Council of Aging, sometime in January. For further information call Franz at 240-3055, or Jim Humphreys at 375-5478.
Audubon calendars available
Don’t forget one of the best holiday gifts is a local product showing off the beauty of where you live. Be sure to get your glorious Bitterroot Audubon 2014 Calendars before they run out like they did last year! You can purchase them in Hamilton at Forest Service Store, Lakeland Feeds, Picturesque, Paper Clip, Chapter One, Sam’s Spade, Art Focus, Bitterroot Drug, and Robbins; in Darby at Deb’s Restaurant; in Stevensville at Lisa Archer Silks; and in Missoula at Naturalist’s Mercantile and the Montana Natural History Center. They can also be purchased online at the BAS website at www.bitterrootaudubon.org. What makes these calendars so precious besides the unique layout and beautiful photos is that all proceeds go to fund local education and scholarship programs.
Turkey drive
Stevensville Pantry Partners food bank is in need of turkeys for the Christmas Food Box Distribution. The Pantry is expecting to provide boxes to 380 families this year. All sizes of turkeys are appreciated. They may be delivered to Pantry Partners located on the corner of Middle Burnt Fork and ALC Way. For information call 777-0351.
NVPL ‘food for fines’
Are your library fines beginning to add up? Why not exchange food for fines? Throughout December the North Valley Public Library will be accepting donations of non-perishable food, small personal care items, and pet food instead of cash to waive library fines. Items will be exchanged at the rate of $1.00 per item, at the discretion of library staff. Please, no expired food. Donations will benefit the Food Pantry in Stevensville. This offer applies to only overdue fines, not lost items. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call the library at 777-5061 or go to www.northvalleylibrary.org.
Golden Age dances
Looking for something to do on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sunday afternoons in the winter months of December, January and February? The Golden Age Club will be changing its dance schedule for the winter months to allow dancers to avoid hazardous night-time driving. Come enjoy the great dance floor and music with potluck snacks provided during the break in a non-alcoholic and non-smoking environment. Music is from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission $3.00 a person. Dances are held at the Golden Age Club, 737 S. Fifth St. Hamilton. (There will be no birthday/anniversary celebrations in December due to the holiday season.)
Toys for Tots toy drive
Now collecting new toys through Toys for Tots – local donations stay local! Look for boxes at these locations: Hamilton – Walgreens, Murdoch’s, The Edge Restaurant/Hamilton Liquor, First Interstate Bank, Me & Mom, Hamilton Assembly of God, IGA, Albertson’s, Quizno’s, Valley Veterans Organization; Corvallis – Corvallis Drug, Ravalli County Bank, Corvallis Primary School; Florence – Farmers State Bank, Gary & Leo’s, Florence Schools, Florence-Carlton Chiropractic, Ace Hardware, Glenn’s Café, Florence Boutique; Stevensville – Farmers State Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, Valley Drug, Full Moon Saloon, High Country Club, Ravalli County Bank, Stevensville Elementary, Lone Rock School, Three Mile Store; Victor – Farmers State Bank, Victor Mercantile, Cowboy Troy’s, Victor School. Donate online at stevensville-mt.toysfortots.org. For more information, contact Leah Duke, 493-4293.
Soroptimist candy sale
Soroptimist International of Hamilton will be selling See’s Candy during the holiday season in the parking lot of First Security Bank in Hamilton. The See’s Candy Mobile will be open through December 14 from 10:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 pm. on Saturdays. Proceeds help support educational and health programs for women and girls.
Stevi Christmas Share Tree
The Stevensville Christmas Share Tree needs your help! Tags (children) are available for adoption and donations are needed. Each tag represents a child in the community who needs warm clothing for Christmas. Donations can be send to Acts of Kindness, P.O. Box 677, Stevensville MT 59870. Contact Beth Perkins at 207-5748 for more information.
Darby adult ed instructor opp
You are invited to present a course for the Darby Adult Education program’s Spring 2014 semester. Based on course evaluations, folks take Darby Adult Education courses for personal enrichment. Submit your course proposals by Monday, December 16. All topic suggestions will be considered. Courses begin on Friday, January 31 and end on Friday, May 23. For examples visit the Darby Adult Education website and look at last semester’s offerings at http://www.darby.k12.mt.us/community/adult-education/course-information-spring-2012. Instructor hourly wage is $20 per classroom hour. For more information contact Adele C. Dicken, Darby Adult Education Director, 821-3405, adicken@darby.k12.mt.us
Santa’s Mailbox
The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that Santa’s Mailbox is located at the Chamber, 105 East Main in Hamilton, for kids of all ages to drop off their letters to Santa. All letters will be answered so remember to put a return mailing address on the letters along with first and last names.
SAFE Giving Tree
SAFE (Supporters of Abuse Free Environments) is sponsoring the Annual Holiday Giving Tree for Emergency Shelter, Transitional Housing and Outreach residents. Each family has ornaments on the tree asking for gifts they cannot afford to provide for their families. Anyone interested in helping a family who has been affected by domestic violence is invited to choose an ornament from the tree and return a gift unwrapped or in gift bags by December 19th. Return the gift to the SAFE on First Thrift Store, located in Hamilton behind Verizon Wireless. SAFE on First is open Monday through Friday, 9:30 to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call Connie at 363-2793 for more information.
Wednesday, December 11
National Influenza Vaccination Week
December 8th through the 14th is National Influenza Vaccination Week, but if fear of needles is keeping you or your children from becoming vaccinated against influenza, you may be able to receive the vaccine via the quick and painless nasal “mist.” The mist provides immunity against four strains of influenza, and is approved for use in most individuals aged 2-49. National Influenza Week provides an ideal opportunity to remind people how important it is to get an annual flu vaccine. Judy Griffin, Director of Ravalli County’s Public Health Department, stated, “Getting vaccinated is the single best way for people to protect not only themselves against flu, but their loved ones as well, especially those at high risk for serious flu complications.” According to the Center for Disease Control, those at high risk include young children, pregnant women, adults 65 years old and older, and anyone with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes and heart disease. The influenza vaccine is available through Ravalli County Public Health, as well as local clinics and pharmacies. A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. For more information, call Ravalli County Public Health at 375-6670, or your health care provider.
4-H Holiday Open House
The Ravalli County 4-H Alumni invite you to the 4-H Holiday Open House on Wednesday, December 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Sapphire Lutheran Homes Chapel to celebrate the season and connect with friends. Cookies, punch and coffee will be served. Bring a wrapped ornament for the ornament gift exchange. Please extend this invitation to people who were 4-H members and leaders in the past and present.
Drum Circle
There will be a Drum Circle on Tuesday, December 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living. African Hand Drumming allows access to the universal heartbeat that exists within and around all things. Bring your drum, rattles, and other instruments and come be part of the fun. No drum? No worries! The center has plenty of extras. Let your inner drummer out! The Center for Spiritual Living is located at 1720 N. First Street, Suite C, in Selway Commons, north of Sears in Hamilton. For information call Carolyn at 375-2548 or visit www.CSLbitterroot.org.
Thursday, December 12
Stevensville Civic Club
The Stevensville Civic Club will meet Thursday, December 12 at 12 noon at St Mary’s Mission, downstairs. Lunch is served for $6 per person. Everyone is welcome.
Hospice Tree of Lights
Let a light shine on the Marcus Daly Hospice Tree of Lights in remembrance of a friend or loved one. Purchase a light for $5.00 or an ornament with a light for $15.00 in their memory to honor them this holiday season. To assure your loved one’s name will be included in the Tree of Lights memorial event on December 12, make your purchases by December 9. Ornaments can be picked up at the Marcus Daly Hospice Center or for an additional fee of $5.00 it will be mailed to you.
Hospice Celebration of Light: All are welcome to join in the 22nd annual non-denominational Hospice Tree of Lights community remembrance on Thursday, December 12at 4:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Main Street, Hamilton. This year’s event once again features the Hamilton High School Choir. Following at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital will be the lighting of the Hospice Tree of Lights and a homemade holiday Goodie Reception in the Hospital Conference Room C.
To purchase a light or for more information visit marcusdalyhospice.org or call Marcus Daly Hospice Services at 363-6503.
Genesis House open house
Genesis House will hold its annual Christmas Open House Party on Thursday, December 12 at 5:30 p.m. It’s a good chance to visit with the residents as well as all the supporters of the house. There will be snacks, carol singing, and getting to know some of the ladies. All of them really love opening the gifts that the community so generously provides. Genesis House is located at 116 College Street, Stevensville, the big white house on the northeast corner of College and Second.
Back Country Horsemen
The Selway-Pintler Wilderness Back Country Horseman will celebrate the holiday season by hosting a “finger food” potluck and raffle at the next general meeting on Thursday, December 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Hamilton Forest Service Bldg. It’s that time of year for membership renewals, elections and a look back on a great summer of projects, packing and mountain trails! Come to the meeting and take a chance on winning some unique western gifts. Guests are always welcome for coffee, cocoa and lots of “trail talk”. Entrance is in the rear. For more information contact Linda at 961-1435.
Ravalli Tea Party
Ravalli Tea Party will meet Thursday, December 12 at 6:30 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant (south meeting room) in Hamilton on Hwy 93. Note: this is a location change. Join in a discussion of the issues facing rural America and possible solutions, the transfer of public lands to state jurisdiction, as well as national and local issues of interest. Contact Jennine Jones at 369-1656 for more information.
Fellowship Club
The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club will be meeting on Thursday, December 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to discuss “The Shift” by Dr Wayne W. Dyer.
In this book, inspired by the movie of the same name, Dr. Wayne Dyer illustrates how and why to make the move from ambition to meaning.
As we contemplate leaving the morning of our life, where ego has played a commanding role, and entering the afternoon (and evening), where meaning and purpose replace ambition and struggle, we may encounter unexpected occurrences that accompany this new direction. It’s almost a universal law that we’ll experience a fall of some kind. Yet these falls or low points provide the energy we need to move away from ego and into a life of meaning and purpose.
“The Shift” doesn’t mean that we lose our drive and ambition; it signifies that we become ambitious about something new. We make a commitment to living a life based on experiencing meaning and feeling purposeful, rather than a life based on never-ending demands and false promises that are the trademark of the ego’s agenda.
Dr. Wayne Dyer is an internationally renowned author and speaker in the field of self-development. He’s the author of 30 books, has created many audio programs and videos, and has appeared on thousands of TV and radio show.
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.
Cross Country Ski Club
The Bitterroot Cross-Country Ski Club will meet Thursday, December 12 at 7 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Main Street, Hamilton. Guest speaker is Kate Stone, who will give a presentation on “Unusual Bird and Wildlife Sightings in the Bitterroot Valley.” Stone, an Ecologist for the MPG Ranch, a private conservation property near Florence, will highlight some of the research she is conducting, some of the more unusual bird and wildlife sightings, and how private lands conservation and research can fit into the overall picture of how we understand the world around us. She’ll also let you know how you can contribute to what we know about wildlife in the Bitterroot Valley. A potluck dinner will begin at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged and welcomed to attend this potluck and all meetings.
Stevensville Town Council Meeting
The Stevensville Town Council will meet Thursday, December 12 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall. Agenda items include discussion/decision on Twin Creeks Subdivision Final Plat, discussion/decision on Stevensville Clothes Closet Grants to Others Application, discussion/decision on Stevensville Museum Grants to Others Application, discussion/decision on Stevensville Playhouse Grants to Others Application, discussion/decision on Genesis House Grants to Others Application, discussion/decision on Pantry Partners Grants to Others Application, discussion/decision on Stevensville Senior Center Grants to Others Application, discussion/decision on PERS Reimbursement Request by Phil Bratton, discussion/decision on 2013-2014 Stevensville Main Street Assn. Contract, discussion/decision on Assignment of Fund 2940 CDBG Grant Funds, discussion/decision on Resolution No. 326 Providing for Administrative/Executive Supplemental Compensation, discussion of Planning and Zoning Board Appointments, to name a few.
Friday, December 13
South Valley Pachyderm Club
At the next meeting of the South Valley Pachyderm Club on Friday, December 13, the featured speaker will be County Commissioner Suzy Foss, presenting an update on current County Commission activities and issues. A special commentary will be delivered by ‘Gabriel’. Attendees first met him briefly at the previous meeting. The public is Welcome to attend. The club meets from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of each month at BJ’s Family Restaurant, 900 N. First Street at Fairgrounds Road in Hamilton. There will be no further meetings in December due to the Christmas holidays. The South Valley Pachyderm Club is an officially recognized allied organization of the Republican Party.
Saturday, December 14
Flea market
A flea market will be held Saturday, December 14 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. Come see antiques, collectibles, arts and crafts, white elephants, dishes, china, pottery, glassware, dolls, books, jewelry, scarves, tools, and much more. Lunch is available. Rent a table for $5.00 by calling 363-5181 or April at 363-0112.
Clothing, houseware giveaway
Free clothing and housewares will be given away to anyone who needs them on Saturday, December 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the First Christian Church, 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. Everyone is welcome. There will be nice family clothing that is new or gently worn along with nice items for the home! Free breakfast/brunch snacks will be served and a prize will be drawn every hour! This event is sponsored by Hart to Heart, Centershot, Feet of Faith Ministries and Youth Arise. For more information call (251)422-2219.
Good-Time Jamboree
The Bitterroot Valley Good-Time Jamboree will be held on Saturday, December 14 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange Hall from 7 to 9:30 p.m. The Grange Hall is located at 1436 Highway 93 South, just past the Valley Pet Clinic. Featured performers are: “Sticks in the Mud”, Diane Olheoft and Jerry Downey, Nick Mariana, Jane Shigley and “Tin Cup”. Admission is free but a suggested donation of $3 or more to cover expenses is always deeply appreciated. Remember, this monthly series is always on the second Saturday of the month, September through June. For information contact John at 381-2483.
Bitterroot Dancers
The Bitterroot Dancers will hold a country western dance on Saturday, December 14 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Bedford Building, 223 S. 2nd Street, Hamilton (2nd floor w/elevator access). Wild Coyote will provide the music and a no-host bar will be available. The public is welcome. Admission is $7. For more information call 363-7987.
Monday, December 16
Rotary Club
Corvallis High School Chorale Ensemble will be performing Christmas music, directed by Ms. Nancy Brown, at the next meeting of the Hamilton Rotary Club, on Monday, December 16 at 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. The meeting is open to the public. For further information call 777-3054.
Hamilton School Winter Concert
The Hamilton Middle and High School Bands will present their annual Winter Concert on Monday, December 16, at 7:30 p.m. in the HHS Performing Arts Center. The concert will feature the 6th Grade Band, 7-8th Grade Band, and the high school Symphonic Band performing standard wind band literature as well as some seasonal favorites. The concert is open to the public free of charge and everyone in encouraged to attend.
Tuesday, December 17
RCEDA
Ravalli County Economic Development Authority will hold its regular monthly Finance Committee meeting on Tuesday, December 17 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., and the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, December 18 from 3 to 5 p.m. Both meetings will be held at the RCEDA office, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. These meetings are open to the public.