Calendar

Wednesday, May 25

Preschool story time
Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, May 11 to enjoy “That’s What It’s All About” and hear books read by Laura Craig. 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.

Bitterroot College Program meeting
The steering committee for the Bitterroot College Program of The University of Montana will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 25, at 3 p.m. at the Human Resource Council Building Meeting Room, 316 N. Third St. in Hamilton.  
The BCP steering committee is a public board and welcomes members of the public to observe and participate at its meetings. Agenda topics will include the discussion of the BCP five-year Strategic Plan Draft and discussion of current operational and fiscal issues. The meeting agenda and supplemental meeting materials, including the Strategic Plan Draft, is available on the BCP website at  HYPERLINK “http://www.umt.edu/bcp” http://www.umt.edu/bcp (click on “Meetings” under “Steering Committee”), by calling BCP Interim Director Victoria Clark at 375-0100 or emailing  HYPERLINK “mailto:victoria.clark@umontana.edu” victoria.clark@umontana.edu. The BCP steering committee is a collaborative group composed of Ravalli County stakeholders, UM officials and state higher education representatives. The committee is charged with planning an entity to provide responsive and sustainable adult and higher education opportunities to Ravalli County residents. It now offers 21 UM and COT courses in the Hamilton area.

Thursday, May 26

Men’s Cancer Support Group
The Men’s Cancer Support Group will meet Thursday, May 26 from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. at the Montana Cancer Center (St. Patrick Hospital Broadway Building, 2nd floor) in Missoula. It is free and open to all men in any stage of cancer, from testing to treatment and follow-up. For more information or to RSVP, contact facilitator Greg Shanks by phone at 214-9697 or email gshanks@mtneuro.com.

Law Day events
A public showing of “Family Law in Montana for Non-Lawyers” will be held on May 26 at 7 p.m. in the basement meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library, 306 State Street in Hamilton. The DVD program provides an introduction to and basic information about family law in Montana, including marriage, divorce, and parenting plans. It was produced by the Yellowstone Area Bar Association and the Montana Supreme Court in 2009. On Friday, May 27, there will also be guided tours of the Ravalli County Courthouse and Hamilton City Court at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tours will last about 30 minutes and participants should meet at the time of their choice in the lobby on the main floor of the Ravalli County Courthouse. Events are free and sponsored by SAFE and the Legal Issues Committee of the Ravalli County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence in commemoration of Law Day 2011, a day to renew our understanding and appreciation for the fundamental principle of the rule of law. For more information, call Supporters of Abuse Free Environments (SAFE) at 363-2793.

Stevi school facility committee
The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, May 26 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.

South Valley Civic Club 
The next meeting of the South Valley Civic Group will be held this Thursday, May 26 at 6 p.m. at the Little Blue Joint in Darby. Everyone is welcome.
Devotional singing
The public is invited to devotional singing on Thursday, May 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 607 Grantsdale Road, Hamilton. Take a little time out to enjoy harmonies and easy melodies from the world’s spiritual traditions. Live music. No experience necessary. All are welcome. Singing is led by Brian Vayu Jameson whose gentle nature and humor encourages the shy singers. For more information contact Brian at 381-0617.

Friday, May 27

South Valley Pachyderm Club
Senator Bob Lake, and Representative Gary MacLaren will be  the speakers at the next meeting of the South Valley Pachyderm Club on Friday, May 27 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. For more information see www.ravcogop.com.

‘Montana Monologs’ performance
“The Montana Monologs,” a collection of ranch women’s stories told through individual monologs, will be presented at the Stevensville Playhouse during Memorial Day weekend. The monologs were written by playwright Wendy Woollett, the production features the monologs “Epiphany,” from the life of Stevensville’s late Lynn Wolfe, portrayed by Deborah Goslin; “7UP,” from the life of Pat Shepard of St. Ignatius, portrayed by Gretchen Spiess; and the new “Bole” from the late Dorothy O’Neil’s life in Choteau, portrayed by Ellen Wade. Musician Paul Kelley of the Frederico Brothers will offer old-time, contemporary and original scores for the production. The performances are Friday and Saturday, May 27-28 at 8 p.m., and a Sunday matinee on May 29at 2 p.m. Reservations may be made by calling River’s Mist Gallery at 777-0520. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. “The Montana Monologs” premiered in 2007 at the Dunrovin Ranch in Lolo and are culled from the histories of Montana ranch women. Three of Woollett’s interviews with ranch women and their subsequent oral histories were financed by a Matthew Hansen Endowment from UM’s Wilderness Institute.
Monday, May 30
Florence Memorial Day Dinner
The 55th Annual Memorial Day Service and Dinner to honor our military will be held Monday, May 30 at the Florence-Carlton Church Fellowship Hall. A flag raising ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. with the indoor service to follow. The dinner will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu is turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables, rolls, and homemade pie. Cost is $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for under 12 years old. All proceeds go towards church missions. For more information call 370-0234.

Thursday, June 2

Stevi school facility committee
The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, June 2 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.

Friday, June 3

Mutt Strut
Lace up your walking shoes, grab your favorite four-legged friend, and come out for the 3rd annual Mutt Strut! Last May, 75 people and more than 30 dogs enjoyed a stroll down the Stevensville bike path. Enjoy gifts and door prizes and see who won the Bitterroot’s Biggest Loser (for pets) competition! Meet at the Stevensville Ranger Station on the corner of Main Street and Eastside Hwy on Friday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. As in previous years, Sapphire Animal Hospital will donate a pound of food for every walker to the Bitter Root Humane Association. For more information call 777-4399.

First Friday at NV Library
As part of Stevensville Main Street Association’s June First Friday events, North Valley Public Library will host the “Bitterroot Range” band. Band members Jay Calkins (Stevensville) and Greg Bartlett (Hamilton) play a wide variety of instruments to their own original music, a mixture of folk, bluegrass, jazz, blues and progressive rock. Calkins plays bass, banjo, mandolin, and guitar; Bartlett plays acoustic guitar, drums and piano. The music of Calkins and Bartlett is a very eclectic and pleasing sound. Be sure to stop in the library to hear these talented, local musicians from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. on June 3, during First Friday festivities. The library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, contact the library at 777-5061.

Art exhibit
“Works on Paper” by Linda Stoudt and Barbara Warden will be on display at The Frame Shop & Gallery from June 3 through August 2. An artists’ reception will be held Friday, June 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. After Words conversation with the artists will be presented Saturday, June 4 at 11 a.m. The Frame Shop & Gallery is located at 325 W. Main in Hamilton. Call 363-6684 for more information.

Dance presentation
“Rhythms of Spring!” will treat the audience to a variety of exciting dance styles as Elenita Brown Dancers perform for First Friday, June 3, 7 p.m., at the Senior Citizens Center, 100 Mission Street, in Stevensville. Donations will be accepted at the door.

Ceramics exhibit
“Persistence in Clay: Contemporary Ceramics in Montana” will be on display June 3-September 10 at the Missoula Art Museum. An exhibition and artists’ reception will be held Friday, June 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. with music by Salsa Loca and beer garden by Flathead Lake Brewing Co. of Missoula. Also on Friday, June 3 at 7 p.m. there will be an Artists’ Gallery Talk with Julia Galloway and Beth Lo.
While many regions of the country are known for their mastery of other mediums, in Montana the ceramic arts are the touchstone of art and culture. This exhibition serves as a snap shot of the world class activity that is happening today in the state. The exhibition coincides with the Archie Bray Foundation’s 60th birthday and is intended to celebrate not only this milestone birthday, but the long-lived strength of the clay medium in the state of Montana. The professional artists in this exhibit are a selection of the many clay artists who are currently recognized leaders in their communities. 
Since the 1940s the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts has had a tremendous impact on the region. The first two residents were Rudy Autio and Peter Voulkos, who in turn had a profound influence on the American Crafts-as-Art movement, and subsequent attitudes about American ceramics. “Rudy” and “Pete,” as they are known regionally, left a rich and growing legacy in the ceramic arts.
The legacy has been passed on and is demonstrated by the nineteen dedicated ceramic artists participating in this traveling exhibition. The featured artists include: Dean Adams, Adrian Arleo, Steve Braun, Josh DeWeese, Hannah Fisher, Shanna Fliegel, Julia Galloway, Robert Harrison, Trey Hill, David Hiltner, Steve Lee, Beth Lo, Richard Notkin, David Regan, Alison Reintjes, David Smith, Sarah Jaeger, Tara Wilson and Rosie Wynkoop. Although these artists reflect a variety of styles and approaches, they have all invested in this place, demonstrated an intense professional focus in the clay medium, and are practicing within their communities to help perpetuate the legacy of clay in Montana. 
Though working in Montana, many of these artists rarely exhibit within the state relying instead on commercial support and attention from galleries and collectors outside the region. Drawing these artists together celebrates the local connection to the communities they call home and provides an educational platform to affirm their creative contributions. It should be noted that this select group of artists is not exclusive, for this exhibition could easily be tripled in size with ceramic artists who are equally vital and competent. This profound fact speaks to the strength of the clay medium in the state and the legacy of the pioneers who laid the groundwork for the generations of clay artists to come.

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.

Sunday, June 5

Variety show
A variety show will be held on Sunday, June 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th Street. Cost is $4.00 per ticket with all proceeds going to the Senior Center’s operating budget. The fundraising event will include music, skits, poems, refreshments etc. Also included in the evening’s program will be drawings for many great gifts being offered for a raffle that has been organized by the center to help with fund-raising efforts. For more information contact Jean at 363-3206.

Monday, June 6

First time homebuyer classes
The Bitter Root Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc. (RC&D) is holding a nationally certified homebuyer education class on June 6, 7, and 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. (each night) at the Human Resource Council Building, 316 N. Third St., Hamilton. Call the Bitter Root RC&D office at 363-5450, ext. 5 to reserve a space. Attendance on all three nights is required for certification. The charge is $25 to cover the cost of reference materials. (If you are buying your home as a couple, one household, you both need to attend the class). The class is especially beneficial to first-time homebuyers with below median incomes, but any potential homebuyer will benefit from the class. Anyone who has not owned a home for three or more years is considered a first-time homebuyer and may be able to purchase a home for monthly payments comparable to what they are paying in rent. Completion of this class is required in order to qualify for some of the special homebuyer loan assistance programs.

Thursday, June 9

Fellowship Club
The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club will be meeting on Thursday, June 9, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to discuss “As A Man Thinketh” by James Allen. This classic book teaches essentially how everything that is happening in our life is the result of our thoughts. Allen claims that, if life doesn’t appear to be fair, it’s because we are not aware of our thoughts. If we observe our thoughts we can change them gradually until we create automatically any circumstance we want. 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.

Saturday, June 11

Art & Treasures Appraisal
An art and treasure appraisal will be held Saturday, June 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ravalli County Museum, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton. Have your family treasures appraised by renowned international appraiser Timothy Gordon of Timothy Gordon Appraisals. Bring all your fine art, Indian artifacts, rare antiquities, militaria, fine decorative objects, etc.
$10 minimum donation per appraised item; $8 Ravalli County Museum/BRVHS Members. Become a member during the event and receive one free item appraisal. Light refreshments served.
 Gordon is Antiquarian/Historian for the PBS Series, “Frontier House” and appraiser to the Princess Diana Collection, Kensington Palace, London, the Liz Claiborne Estate, the Levi Strauss Corporate Collection, rare and historic contents of many museums and National Parks. Gordon is donating his services so that 100% of funds raised during this event go directly to support Ravalli County Museum at the Old Courthouse restoration and programs. For more information call 363-3338.

Monday, June 13

Lone Rock VBS
Vacation Bible School at Lone Rock Bible Church will be held June 13-17, from 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., for kids entering K-7th grades. The theme is “Gold Rush, Discovering the Rock of Ages.” There will be crafts, games, snacks, and songs. For information and pre-registration, contact Amy Herron, 777-2957, dougnamy@cybernet1.com
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.

Basketball camp
The Bitterroot Basketball Academy is offering a “Summer Skills” basketball camp to be held on Dale Berry Court at Hamilton High School. All boys and girls entering  2nd-8th  grades are invited to attend June 13-16. BBA summer sessions will attack skill development and participants will receive fundamental instruction from area high school coaches and players. Individual and small group instruction is also available. Registration forms can be picked up at all Valley schools. Questions? Contact Toby Stack at 363-2121 or email bitterrootbasketballacademy@live.com

SAFE Crisis Line training
Become a valued member of the SAFE (Supporters of Abuse Free Environments) volunteer crisis line team to serve victims of domestic or sexual violence. Crisis line volunteers provide information and a listening ear to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault and other callers. Training will be held June 13-16 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the SAFE office in Hamilton. Pre-registration is appreciated. A background check is required of all applicants.
Call Theresa Rivera, Volunteer Coordinator, 363-2793, for registration and information.

Christian concert
“Driven Quartet” will appear in concert Monday, June 13 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 354 Cooper Lane in Hamilton. Based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, Driven is not new to Southern Gospel music. Collectively this group of young men has been singing professionally for over 20 years. Their resumes include such groups as Danny Funderburk & Mercy’s Way, the Anchormen and Lumber River. In 2006, this group of young men, through prayer, stepped out on faith and commenced their new full-time career. Heeding the call on their lives to present the gospel through music, three four created Driven Ministries. Once you have the opportunity to hear “Driven,” you will see why they have been so successful in “working for Him” to “seek the lost and uplift the hurting.”

Tuesday, June 14

‘Habitat for Humanity 101’
Habitat for Humanity of Missoula invites interested persons to attend “Habitat for Humanity 101” and learn how you can help build community, homes and hope this year. Volunteers are needed to work at building sites, on committees and on special projects. Learn about Missoula’s need for affordable housing and how Habitat volunteers from all walks of life are having a great time working together to build a better world. This introduction to Habitat for Humanity of Missoula will be held Tuesday, June 14 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the Missoula Public Library. Call 549-8210 for more information.

Trapper Creek Job Corps Open House
Trapper Creek Job Corps will hold an open house on Tuesday, June 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. The event will include center tours, vocational presentations, student presentations, community awards, and a barbeque dinner. Tours and presentations start at 4 p.m. and the barbeque will begin at 5 p.m. RSVP by June 10 at 821-3286. The event is sponsored by the Trapper Creek Job Corps Community Relations Council.

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,  HYPERLINK “mailto:bonevers@netzero.net” bonevers@netzero.net, 821-3214; Evelyn Savochka:  HYPERLINK “mailto:evie@dishmail.net” evie@dishmail.net; 531-0327; Helen Ann Bibler:  HYPERLINK “mailto:helenann13@hughes.net” helenann13@hughes.net, 821-3444.

Saturday, June 25

CHS all-school class reunion
The 9th annual All School Class Reunion will take place on Saturday, June 25 in the Old CHS Gym. Every 5th and 10th year class will be honored, as well as any attendees from classes before the year 1961. Special honored guests will be the 50th year class.
Tours of the schools with guides available will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. A social will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. in the old gym with free, non-alcoholic refreshments and photo taking. Blue Devil t-shirts will be available for purchase. Handicap access to the gym is at the northwest entrance. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. sharp. Advance dinner tickets are $12 per person; $15 after June 15.
There will be a 50-50 raffle, the proceeds of which will help fund a scholarship to any technical school in Montana. Hopefully, enough money will be raised to award a scholarship to a member of the 2012 graduating class.
For more information call Ray Dunbar at 406-9614528; or Gayle Anfinson Tintzman at 406-961-3343 or e-mail tintzman@cybernet1.com.

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.

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.

Celtic jam session
A Celtic music jam session is held on the third Sunday of the month from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange. Call Jill at 642-3601 for more information.

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.

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.

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.

Military Kids Campout 
The Hamilton Rotary club is sponsoring the second annual Military Kids Campout to be held at Lake Como July 28-30. Children ages 8 to 12 of active duty military personnel are invited to attend. There are many fun activities planned at no cost to the military families. There is a limit of 20 participants so sign up early. For more information and a registration form go to hamiltonmtrotary.org.

Summer outdoor equipment needed
South Valley Child and Family Center needs your gently used bikes, skateboards and tennis racquets to help local kids have a great summer! You can donate them at SVCFC, 515 Madison, in Hamilton or call 363-3450 for pick-up. Camp starts June 13.

Summer reading program
Read your way to the Ravalli County Fair – join a summer reading program at your local Public Library and earn a chance to win an all day carnival ride pass or 4-day event pass courtesy of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds! Information on summer reading programs can be found at: Bitterroot Public Library,  HYPERLINK “http://www.bitterrootpubliclibrary.org” www.bitterrootpubliclibrary.org, 363-1670; Darby Public Library,  HYPERLINK “http://www.darbylibrary.net” www.darbylibrary.net, 821-4771; North Valley Public Library,  HYPERLINK “http://www.northvalleylibrary.org” www.northvalleylibrary.org, 777-5061.

Bitterroot growers’ market
The Bitterroot Valley Growers’ Market is held every Saturday from 9 a.m.to 1 p.m. at Caffe Firenze in Florence. The market features all locally grown and locally made products. Vendor spaces are free. Call Eric or Suzanne at 777-0709 for more information.