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.
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.
Our Savior Lutheran Preschool registration
Our Savior Lutheran Preschool of Stevensville continues to pre-register
three- and four-year-old students for the 2011/2012 school year at the
Church. Our Savior’s early childhood program is designed to develop
and encourage socialization and to enrich basic skills in boys and
girls, ages three through five. Parents may call 777-5625 weekday
mornings for more information. Our Savior Lutheran Church, affiliated with the Lutheran Church––Missouri Synod, is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road. From the Eastside Highway, about one mile south of the intersection of the
Eastside Highway and Middle Burnt Fork Road, turn east onto Pine
Hollow. Cross the tracks and the canal and the church will be on the
left, marked by three crosses.
NV 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.
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, www.bitterrootpubliclibrary.org, 363-1670; Darby Public Library, www.darbylibrary.net, 821-4771; North Valley Public Library, 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.
Clothing drive
The 2nd Annual School Clothing Drive continues through August 12. Drop off locations are Super 1 outside of Ravalli County Bank, Farmers State Bank, and Leaps ‘n Bounds on Main Street in Stevensville. Items needed are shirts, pants, coats, hats, mittens, socks, underwear (new only), shoes, winter boots, backpacks, and school supplies. All sizes from Infant to Adult will be accepted – new items are preferred but gently used (no holes, broken zippers or missing buttons) will be accepted. Distribution is August 18 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 402 Church Street, Stevensville. Any remaining items will be brought to the Clothes Closet on August 20. For information or if you need to schedule a pick up, contact Beth Perkins at 207-5748.
Summer lunch program
The North Valley Public Library and the St. Mary’s Mission Parish have partnered to host a free lunch program every Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the St. Mary’s Family Center through August 12 for children 18 and under. (Adults may purchase a lunch for $3.50.) Volunteers are needed to help prepare, serve and clean-up. For more information or to volunteer to help, call Patricia Meakin at 531-8338 or Rita Pfau at 546-8916. St. Mary’s Family Center is located at 333 Charlos Street, Stevensville.
Library summer matinees
Watch a movie at the Bitterroot Public Library on the first and third Fridays of the month at 3:30 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Admission is free. For details call 363-1670.
Lake Como campfire chats
The Lake Como Recreation Area is extremely popular this time of year with boaters, hikers, mountain bikers and campers and now there is another reason to visit the area this summer; a new series of campfire talks sponsored by the Bitterroot National Forest. The talks will take place each Saturday evening beginning at 8 p.m. at the Lower Campground at Lake Como. Some upcoming program topics include the history of Lake Como, campfire cooking tips, wildlife skull identification, cowboy poetry, Lewis and Clark, hawks and owls, and more. Fred Weisbecker with the Bitterroot Back Country Horsemen, will be the host along with other presenters.
“The goal of the new program is really to enhance the outdoor experience of campers at Como by offering these talks each Saturday night,” said Bitterroot National Forest Recreation Specialist Erica Strayer. “We have modeled the program after similar ones that are very popular at Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks and we hope the Como chats become an annual summer tradition on the Bitterroot.”
The talks are free to attend. If you are not camping at Lake Como you will be need to purchase a day use pass or have a season pass to park in the Recreation Area. For a program schedule or for more information about the campfire talks contact the Darby Ranger District at 821-3913.
Darby Bread Box collections
The Darby Bread Box is collecting peanut butter and Hamburger Helper for the month of July. Processed meat donation or any donation is appreciated. Food can be dropped off at People’s Market or the Bitterroot Credit Union in Darby. For more information call Mary at 821-2081.
Pantry Partners collections
Pantry Partners Food Bank in Stevensville is in need of peanut butter, jelly, mac and cheese, soup, rice, sugar, and flour. For information call the Pantry at 777-0351.
Bridge leagues forming
The monthly bridge leagues (formerly called Marathons) are now forming to begin fall play. If you are new to the area or just want to play a little more bridge, get yourself a partner and make a call before the end of July. For more information or to register call Barbara, for the Catholic Women’s section, at 363-6248 or call Lois, for the Hamilton Senior Center section, at 961-1522.
Wednesday, July 13
Women Newcomers’ Club
The Bitterroot Women Newcomers’ Club will meet on Thursday, July 14, at 10 a.m. at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton. The meeting will include social time, a business meeting, and a speaker from Ravalli County Weed Abatement Office. For more information, call Melanie Bakken, 777-9814.
Preschool story time
Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s corner of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, July 13 to enjoy “Shimmery Snakes!” and hear books read by Thad Widmer. 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.
Library Wild Wednesday
Bring a blanket, and lunch if you wish, to the next Wild Wednesday event on the west lawn of the Bitterroot Public Library. Mime Christian Ackerman will entertain at 1:30 p.m. This is one more great way for your family to be involved with the Summer Reading Program; the theme this summer is “One World: Many Stories”.
Weekday farmers market
The Hamilton Farmers Market will hold a weekday evening Market on Wednesday, July 13 from 4 to 7 p.m. on Bedford Street in front of the Museum with music provided by the Bitterroot’s own Blue Melon. Come get a taste of locally grown and crafted products.
Thursday, July 14
Stevi school facility committee
The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, July 14 at 10 a.m. in the superintendent’s office.
SASS
There will be a meeting of the Stevensville Art & Sculpture Society (SASS) on Thursday, July 14 at 10 a.m. at the Bitterroot Star, 215 Main Street in Stevensville. SASS is an organization for the promotion and appreciation of art within the Bitterroot Valley. Anyone interested in the arts is welcome to attend and join SASS. See more at www.sassart.org. For info call Gary Knapp at 777-3797.
Darby Library reception
The Darby Community Public Library will host a reception for Peggy Smith and Martha Hayes on Thursday, July 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the library. The public is invited to attend. The reception will honor the last two trustees serving from the original library board for their almost two decades of service. Their service spans the period when the Town of Darby Library changed from a small town library to the present day Darby Community Public Library.
Tea Party Patriots
Ravalli County Tea Party Patriots will meet Thursday, July 14 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). All are welcome to discuss local, state and national issues. Learn about the candidates in the 2012 state and national elections and find out how you can get involved. For more information contact Jennine Jones, 381-0314, donandjennine@gmail.com
Business classes
The Ravalli County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA), kicks off its 6th session of business planning and technology classes for summer starting with its first evening classes. QuickBooks classes will be offered from 6 to 9 p.m. starting Thursday, July 14. Excel starts the following Tuesday, July 19.
Schedule of classes is as follows:
• MS Excel Basics, $40, 2 class meetings: Tuesdays, July 19 & 26, 6-9 PM
- QuickBooks Basics $75 (includes pre-loaded flash drive), 3 class meetings, Thursdays, July 14,21 & 28, 6-9 PM. Package Deal: Excel and QuickBooks, $100.
- Business Plan I, $15, Wednesday July 13th, 9-11am.
- Business Plan II (Financials), $15, Wednesday July 20, 9-11am
- Marketing, $15, Wednesday July 27th, 9-11am
- Human Resources, $15, Wednesday August 3rd, 9-11am
- Choice of Business Entity on Capitalization and Taxes, $15, Wednesday August 10, 9-11am
- Debt and Alternative Financing, $15, Wednesday August 17, 9-11am. Package Deal: All six Business Basics Classes, $80.
To sign up or for more information contact RCEDA at 375-9416 or the Bitterroot College Program of the University of Montana at 375-0100, www.receda.org or www.umt.edu/bcp/continuingeducation.aspx
Fellowship Club
The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club will be meeting on Thursday, July 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to discuss “Feelings Buried Alive Never Die” by Karol K. Truman.
Karol Truman’s book provides a comprehensive and enlightening resource for getting in touch with unresolved feelings which, she explains, can distort not only happiness but also health and well-being.
Leaving no emotion unnamed and, in fact, listing around 750 labels for feelings, Truman helps identify problem areas and offers a “script” to help process the feelings, replacing the negative feeling with a new, positive outlook. Taking the reader on a journey to the center of his Be-ing and his “heart of gold,” the book combines a supportive, common-sense, results-oriented approach to a problem that is widespread and that can stop people from living fully.
Karol Truman is a self-published author of three very successful books and an accomplished pianist and music instructor. She has been exploring health and healing for over 40 years. Karol is also a remedial counselor, therapist, and a true teacher assisting others in achieving success in their endeavors as well as emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
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 wellbeing.
Call 363-1670, or email jacostant@gmail.com for more information.
Friday, July 15
North Valley Pachyderm Club
North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, July 15 at noon at The Frontier Café, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. County Commissioner Suzy Foss will be the guest speaker. The North Valley Pachyderm Club meets the first and third Friday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Frontier Cafe. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
Forest Moon Walk
The Bitterroot National Forest will host a “Nocturnal Fish Moon Walk” on Friday, July 15 at Blodgett Canyon Campground and trail, Stevensville Ranger District. Trout are cold-blooded creatures that are strongly influenced by light and temperature. In mountain streams, trout essentially have two seasons – winter and summer. When trout “winter” sets in, fish behavior dramatically changes. Come learn about these behavior changes from a fisheries biologist from the Bitterroot National Forest as you walk along Blodgett Creek under the July moon.
Saturday, July 16
Model Railroaders exhibit
Saturday, July 16 is the third one in July and that sees the Bitterroot Vally Model Railroaders running their layout in the Kohl Building, right behind the Valley Drug Store on Main Street in Stevensville. They are set to welcome one and all from 1o a.m. to 4 p.m. That includes the young’uns. It’s fun and it’s free. Come in and stay awhile!
Animal Rescues Party
Montana Companion Animal Network (MTCAN), along with other animal rescues and shelters, is helping celebrate Petfinder.com’s 15th birthday by holding an adoption event on Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply (formerly Quality Supply), Hwy 93 South in Hamilton. Animal welfare organizations throughout North America and beyond will be participating in this birthday celebration, with a nationwide goal of 15,000 adoptions on the weekend of July 15-17.
Petfinder, the largest and most successful online venue for adoptable pets, was launched in early 1996 and has facilitated an estimated 17 million adoptions. The site is free to both visitors and the more than 13,000 animal welfare groups that post their pets there. On a national level the public is invited to sign a Petfinder birthday card at www.petfinder.com/birthday.
The local event will feature healthy, adoptable pets from MTCAN’s Dawg Gone Acres, the Bitter Root Humane Association, Feral Cat Rescue and more. The new animal control officer for Ravalli County will be available for questions and answers. Bring the family out to visit with all the wonderful animals, enjoy some birthday cupcakes and free balloons for all the kids. For more information visit www.mtcan.org or email info@mtcan.org
NV Library ‘Cheap Movie Night’
Looking for family entertainment this summer? Did you know that every third Saturday of the month North Valley Public Library shows a free movie? The movies all have a family theme with ratings of G or PG. This month the library will be showing a film about a girl living on a South Pacific island who contacts her favorite author to help her when her scientist father goes missing. Come down on Saturday, July 16 at 6 p.m. to watch the movie on a big screen with your family. Doors open at 5:45. Popcorn is provided. Bring your own non-alcoholic drinks. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information on the movie, call 777-5061.
Art opening
“The Passion, The Perseverance = The Process”, the fine art of wildlife in glass by artist Kathleen Sheard will open Saturday, July 16 at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton. An artist reception will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Kathleen Sheard combines her interest in wild animals and her passion for glass to create incredible works of art. Multiple layers of small pieces of glass and multiple firings create vivid pictures that read more like a painting than mosaic. Come see the exhibit and also meet the artist. The exhibit runs through October 8. For more information call 363.3338 or go to
www.brvhsmuseum.org.
Square dance
The Boots ‘n Calico Square Dance Club of Hamilton and the Levi & Lace of Salmon will hold their traditional dance on Sunday, July 17 at the Sula Clubhouse. All dancers in the area are invited to participate. It will start with a potluck at 6 p.m. followed by square and round dancing. This is usually a fun dance so come out and join in the fun. Ray Dunbar and Eddie Fields will be calling. The Sula Club house is located about a mile up the East Fork of the Bitterroot.
Monday, July 18
Our Savior Lutheran VBS
Our Savior Lutheran Church of Stevensville holds this summer’s Vacation Bible School July 18 through 22, for ages 3 through 12. Jesus says, “I Am…” seven times in the Gospel of John: “I am the Good Shepherd.” “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “I am the Door.” “I am the Light of the World. ” “I am the Bread of Life.” “I am the True Vine.” “I am the Resurrection and the Life.”
At Our Savior’s VBS the children will learn what each of these statements means. They will learn how these “I Am” statements teach about Holy Baptism, Holy Communion, the Holy Gospel, the Holy Ministry, and the resurrection of the flesh. They will learn the true meaning of the person and work of Jesus Christ by reaching a real understanding of these unique “I Am” statements.
Bring your beloved child or grandchild to Our Savior’s VBS to learn the great mysteries of the “I Am.” Classes run from 9 to 11:30 a.m., the week of July 18. Call 777-5625, Monday, Wednesday or Friday mornings for more information. Our Savior, located at 184 Pine Hollow Road, is affiliated with the Lutheran Church––Missouri Synod. To find the church, head south from Stevensville on the Eastside Highway. One mile past the intersection of Middle Burnt Fork Road, turn east on Pine Hollow. Cross the tracks and the canal, and the church will be on the left, marked by three crosses.
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 http://www.umt.edu/molli. For more information, call Dannette Fadness of UM’s School of Extended Studies and Lifelong Learning at 243-2905.
Hamilton Broncs Football Camps
Football camps for boys and girls of all ages are being offered this summer in Hamilton. New HHS Football Coach Travis Blome is gearing up for exciting hands-on camps. Application forms are available at HSD3 District Office, 217 Daly Avenue, or on-line at www.hsd3.org
Little Broncs: Grades 3-5, Boys and Girls, July 19-July 21, 12-1:30 p.m. $20 (includes camp t-shirt and prizes). Hamilton High School Practice Field. Wear: shorts, t-shirt, shoes
Broncs Football Camp: Grades 9-12 (fall 2011), July 25-July 28, 8-10:30 a.m. $45 (includes camp t-shirt and fundamental skills instruction). Hamilton High School Practice Field. Wear: Full football gear
Middle School: Grades 6-8 (fall 2011), July 25-July 28, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. $35 (includes camp t-shirt and fundamental skills instruction). East Middle School Field. Wear: Football cleats if possible, shorts, t-shirt
Family ciscounts are available. Turn in application to: Broncs Football Camp, 800 Parker Apartment C, Hamilton, MT 59840. For more information contact Travis Blome, 546-0219, travisblome@hotmail.com.
Library Creation Stations
Creation Station will be held Tuesday, July 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. This week’s stations celebrate art from Japan by making fish flags and landscape art. Young artists (kindergarteners and older) are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver.
Sons of Norway
Bitterrootdalen Lodge, Sons of Norway, will meet for wagon rides on Lost Horse Road south of Hamilton, followed by a barbeque on Tuesday, July 19. Christine Gunvaldson-Waltz, Lodge President, and her husband, Alan Waltz, will start the wagon rides at 4 p.m. at their place on Carly Lane, a third of a mile up Lost Horse Road. The barbeque will start at 6 p.m., followed by games and crafts. The Lodge will provide meat, buns, drinks and table service. Members and guests are asked to bring a side dish.
Preschool story time
Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s corner of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, July 20 to enjoy “One World, Many Houses” and hear books read by Sally Blevins. 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.
Library Wild Wednesday
Bring a blanket, and lunch if you wish, to the next Wild Wednesday event on the west lawn of the Bitterroot Public Library. Leilani and the hula dancers will entertain at 1:30 p.m. This is one more great way for your family to be involved with the Summer Reading Program; the theme this summer is “One World: Many Stories”.
Thursday, July 21
Devotional singing
Take a little time out to enjoy harmonies and easy melodies from the world’s spiritual traditions at devotional singing on Thursday, July 21 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 607 B Grantsdale Road, Hamilton. The singing is led by Brian Vayu Jameson to the accompaniment of live music. No experience is necessary and all are welcome. For more information call Brian at 381-0617.
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, July 23
Darby Library family event
The Darby Community Public Library’s Summer Reading Program, “One World, Many Stories,” closes with a celebration on Saturday, July 23 at 11 a.m. There will be some “out of this world” fun, and a sneak peak at the 80 new children and young adult books received from a Libri Foundation grant and the Friends of the Darby Library.
The event will begin with a blast at 11 a.m. in the library for the Astronaut and Rocket Family Event with special guest speaker, Barbara Barrett. Learn what it takes to be an astronaut, make a rocket, and sample space food.
Finally, gather for the Summer Reading Program Raffle Drawings and borrow one of the new books donated by the Libri Foundation, the Friends of the Darby Library, and Hal Berenson and Laura Ackerman.
Library Pet Adoption Day
The Teen Advisory Board and the Bitterroot Humane Association are sponsoring a Pet Adoption Day on the west lawn of the Bitterroot Public Library on Saturday, July 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy some shade and interact with some great teens and dogs!
Three Mile Community Barbecue
Come join the fun at the Three Mile Community Barbecue on Saturday, July 23 from noon to 7 p.m. at Lone Rock School, 1112 Three Mile Creek Rd, Stevensville. Bring your appetite for free roast pork, burgers and hot dogs. Bring a side dish and/or dessert to share. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available for sale. There will be live music, bingo, car show, watermelon eating contest, dunk
tank, cowpie bingo, and kids activities.
Monday, July 25
First Baptist VBS
Come experience a Tropical Blast – surf’s up at First Baptist Church in Stevensville. Kids age 4 to 6th grade, enjoy a fruit-tastic adventure, July 25-29, 10 a.m. to noon at Vacation Bible School. For more information, contact Karen Summerfield at 273-2292.
Diagnostic plant clinics
Do you need a plant doctor? Want to know what that pesty weed is growing in your yard? The MSU Ravalli County Extension Office will be offering a diagnostic plant clinic for landowners, gardeners and others with a question on a plant disease, insects, weeds or just what is wrong with your trees, shrubs, etc. The clinics will be held on July 25, August 8 and August 22 at the Ravalli County Extension Meeting Room located at 215 South 4th Street, Hamilton. The clinics will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 to 3 p.m. All clinics are on Mondays, to accommodate the volunteers who will be helping with the diagnostic work and to ensure, if necessary, samples are sent to Bozeman in a timely fashion. Local retired insect and plant specialists will be helping out in the clinic along with Master Gardeners. Contact the Ravalli County Extension Office at 375-6611 for more information.
Tuesday, July 26
Library Creation Stations
Creation Stations will be set up in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library for some world crafts on Tuesday, July 26 between 2 and 4 p.m. Stations will include African Good Luck Hands, and Eskimo Finger Masks. Young artists (kindergarteners and older) are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver.
Friday, July 29
SVCFC benefit dinner
South Valley Child and Family Center is serving up a Cajun feast hosted by guest chef Tony Dees on Friday, July 29, from 7 to 9 p.m. A cash bar from Hidden Legend Winery and marvelous music from Blue to the Bone will complete the good times. Tickets are $40 a person and benefit the programming at South Valley Child and Family Center. Call 363-3450 for reservations. Seating is limited.
Saturday, July 30
FWP horn and antler auction
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will auction non-perishable wildlife parts, such as antlers and horns, Saturday, July 30 at the FWP Region 2 office in Missoula, with proceeds to go to the state FWP account.
Items will be auctioned to the highest bidder, including bighorn sheep horns and one full size sheep cape, deer and elk antlers, and a few specialty items.
Most bighorn sheep items were collected from animals that died as a result of the 2009-2010 pneumonia outbreaks in western Montana wild sheep populations. Items up for bid also include those collected through confiscations from criminal cases, road kills, management actions or parts found in the wild.
The public will be allowed to view auction items beginning at 9 a.m. and bidding will start at 10 a.m. at the FWP office in Missoula (3201 Spurgin Road).
The sales are authorized in state statute. FWP has already donated numerous items to schools, museums and for other educational purposes. For more information on the auction and items available, contact the FWP Region 2 office in Missoula at 542-5500.
Canyon View VBS
Canyon View Church is hosting Vacation Bible School August 1-5 at 195 Skalkaho Hwy in Hamilton. This year’s theme is “S’more of the Outdoors.” Children ages pre-kindergarten through 6th grade are invited to come join the camp for the week from 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. daily. There will be wilderness worship, treats for the trails, camping drama, crafts, games and prizes. Call 363-4244 for more information.
Hebrew classes
Free Hebrew classes will start Thursday, August 4 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library and will continue on August 10, 18 and 25. Learn to read, write and speak the language of Jesus. Call 363-1151 to sign up or for more information.
Saturday, August 6
Baby Run and Stroller Stampede scheduled
A Bitterroot Baby Run and Stroller Stampede sponsored by the Bitterroot Breastfeeding Coalition will be held Saturday, August 6 at the South Valley Child and Family Center, 515 Madison in Hamilton. A 5K Run/Walk will start at 9 a.m., with the Stampede at 10:30 a.m. Strollers are welcome in the 1-mile fun run/walk Stampede designed to include the whole family. 5K entry fee is $15 (includes Stampede). Stroller Stampede is $5 per person or $15 per family. Pre-registration deadline is July 13. All proceeds benefit the Bitterroot Breastfeeding Coalition. Registration forms are available at Runners Edge, Bob Wards in Hamilton and the North Valley Library in Stevensville or online at www.bitterrootbreastfeedingcoalition org. For more information contact Mary at 880-2551.
Tuesday, August 23
Fall registration for Stevensville School District #2 will be held August 23-25 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in all three offices. Requirements for entrance are copies of birth certificates and current immunization records. Freshman Orientation will be August 29 at 7 p.m. in the High School gym.
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 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 www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com.
South Valley Quilt Show
The South Valley Quilt Show will be held on Saturday, August 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Darby Club House. The theme of the show is “In the Good Old Summertime.” Admission is $1 or one food item to be donated to the Darby Bread Box.
Stitch N Time, a Darby Quilt Guild, is calling for quilt entries for the show. Quilts may be entered in six categories: Pieced, Machine Appliqued, Hand Appliqued, Art, Home Décor and Theme Quilt. There will be People’s Choice voting and ribbons awarded.
Entry forms for the show can be picked up at Pinnacle Sewing Service at 404 N. Main Street, Darby. Online entry is available at www.pinnaclesewing.com. Entry fee is $5 per quilt. Entry deadline is August 15th.
The South Valley Quilt Guild is also calling for vendors for the show. Artisans of all types of media are welcome to hold a booth at the show. Items for the craft portion of the show must be mostly handmade, no commercial items. Booth fee is $10 for a 10-foot space. Vendors may share tables.
For more information about the South Valley Quilt Show, call Karen Tinney at 406-203-4398.
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., stompers 7-9pm
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., Special Bingo at noon, June 4
Sunday – bridge, 1 p.m., Variety Show 7pm June 5, Church of Christ Potluck, 12:30pm June 12
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 per couple and $3 per single. 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.
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: 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 to? 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 or online at http://valleyveteransservicecenter.org/
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 George Mayer, 360-5435.
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. Call Douglas at 381-3214 for more information.
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. For more information contact Tom Gacek, 777-0747, 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.
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.
Bitterroot Moms Club
Join a local group for moms to meet new friends, learn more about the area, host or attend play dates, book clubs, outings and much more. The group is geared for moms and children to interact during the day but there are occasional events for moms in the evening. For more information go to meetup.com and under “Topic,” type in The Bitterroot Valley Moms Meetup Group or contact Ashley at ashleyt9183@yahoo.com.
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, banjos, Dobros, or other acoustic instrument. Music includes old-time country, swing, cowboy, folk, old standards, etc. There is no charge for admission. And folks who just want to listen are encouraged to come – it’s always more fun with an audience. And don’t forget the monthly concert: The Bitterroot Valley Good-Time Jamboree. It’s the first Saturday of each month from 7 to 9:30 p.m., also at The Grange. The Grange Hall is located about a mile south of town at 1436 South 1st Street (93 highway), just south of the Valley Pet Clinic. For more information call Clem, 961-4949.
Ragtime Society
The Bitterroot Valley Ragtime Society meets on the first Saturday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Hamilton Pub in Victor. There is no charge for membership, all are welcome. Come on out and listen to some vintage American music from the ragtime and early jazz era! For further information call 916-759-3168.