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.

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 Claude Nichols at 273-3051.

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.

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 375-4752.

NV Library story time

The North Valley Public Library in Stevensville offers story times for children ages seven and under on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. No registration is required. For more information call the library at 777-5061.

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

Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) meets every fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, in the basement, 600 S. 3rd St., Hamilton. The building is handicap accessible from DeSmet Street through the back door of the church. For more information contact Terry Moran, 363-7656.

‘Science of Mind’ fellowship

Science of Mind fellowship gathers every Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Carriage House in Hamilton to watch a downloaded message from Seattle's Center For Spiritual Living. Join like-minded metaphysicians in spiritual community. For info call Barb Lucas, 375-9996.

Women’s writing group

A Women's Writing Group for women who love to write and share their written work with other women meets Tuesdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Call Theresa Rivera at SAFE, 363-2793, for more information.

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 Service Center

Find out what VA benefits you may be qualified for at the Valley Veterans Service Center, open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to assist veterans and their dependents in filing claims with the VA. If you have questions or need help dealing with the VA, call Rob Embree at 363-9838 or stop by the office at 229 Fairgrounds Road, Suite 4, 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 from the Boxer Rebellion to the present. Many veterans have both unresolved and resolved issues from their experiences in the military that impact their lives today. At the meetings veterans 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 (961-1577) 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 229 Fairgrounds Road (just east of Hamilton High School). Vietnam era veterans often need assistance with problems and issues and many have similar stories. The Bitterroot Chapter VVA is your organization to provide the opportunity to obtain and share information, to organize grass root activities, lend a helping hand, and offer assistance to all veterans in dealing with the Veterans Administration. Also, through the National VVA organization, the local chapter supplies input to state and federal government legislators on issues important to veterans. For more information contact Bill Decker at 369-2252.

MOPS group

The Bitterroot MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group meets at Lone Rock Bible Church, around the corner from Lone Rock School, just off Eastside Hwy, down Three Mile Creek Road, between Stevensville and Florence. The group meets every other Tuesday, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Age-appropriate childcare including snacks, stories and activities, is available for children up through age five. For more information about Bitterroot MOPS, contact Jeannie Tischler at 777-0506.

Waldorf Playgroup

Waldorf Playgroup, Parent/Child Classes meet Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton, and Daly Mansion Children's Garden. Welcoming parents, expecting parents, and children birth to 6 years for creative play, songs, stories, baking, crafts and gardening in a homelike setting. For more information contact Kim at 369-0213 or Elissia at 381-1981. Waldorf Playgroup, Parent/Child Class is sponsored by the Bitterroot School. More information about the Bitterroot School and Waldorf education can be found at www.thebitterrootschool.org and HYPERLINK "http://www.whywaldorfworks.org" www.whywaldorfworks.org.

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.

Shamanic Journey Circle

The Blue Eagle Woman Shamanic Journey Circle meets on the second Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at 504 Main St. (Active Care Family Chiropractic building) in Stevensville. The event is free and open to anyone who would like to participate in shamanic drumming and healing work. For more information, contact Marge Hulburt at 241-7260.

Recovery support group

“High Noon” Meeting: A newly formed, peer-directed support group meets weekly on Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. at the Bison Internet Café, 164 S. 3rd in Hamilton. The Café is not open during meeting times. 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. Participants demonstrate hope and strength to each other, share resources and celebrate successes. The café’s open hours are Wednesday through Saturday, from 3 to 9 p.m. For more information, call during those hours or leave a message at 363-2222.

Bitterroot Toastmasters

Bitterroot Toastmasters Club meets Monday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Perkins Restaurant in Hamilton with optional no host supper before or after. Meetings are designed to build confidence and skills in communication and leadership. Guests are welcome.

Child fitness program

It's no secret that an increasing number of today’s kids are overweight or obese. These kids are at a higher risk for weight-related health conditions that impair quality of life. South Valley Child and Family Center is meeting that challenge head-on with the Fitterroot Program for Kids. The Fitterroot Team works closely with young people and their families during a structured 10-week program. Goals include (1) learning how to make healthier food choices, (2) addressing challenges to adopting a healthier lifestyle, (3) increasing physical activity, and (4) enhancing self-image. A new session is starting in early October. Enrollment is limited. For more information, or to receive an enrollment packet, call Mimi at 363-3450 (leave a message).

Evening water aerobics

Evening Water Aerobics are held at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center Mondays through Thursdays. Monday and Wednesday water aerobics are held from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Water Aerobics Instructors will teach a combination of shallow and deep water moves to help strengthen your cardiovascular system and core using a mixture of interval and circuit training. Call 375-8200 or check out the website at www.bitterrootaquaticcenter.com

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. and Sunday mornings from 10 to 11:45 a.m. at the Kingdom Hall, 1115 S. Reserve St., Missoula. Discussion focuses on how to use the Bible in your life. For more information contact Dianr Gacek, 777-0747, aslgal@rocketmail.com.

Community meal program

The South Valley Child and Family Center is serving free meals to the community’s families and those in need Monday through Friday from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday at 515 Madison in Hamilton. To volunteer or for further information call Faylee at 363=3450.

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.

Lone Rock Bible Club

The Lone Rock Bible Club meets Wednesdays from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m. Escorts from Lone Rock School to the church building will be provided and homeschooled children are also invited. Guaranteed to be fun! For more information call Russ Scheffel (240-3048), Randy Turner (360-1771) or Cheri Perez (777-2570).

Darby food collection

The Darby Bread Box is collecting canned milk, canned pumpkin, cranberrry sauce and stuffing during October and November for Holiday Boxes. Drop off locations are People's Market and the Bitterroot Credit Union in Darby. Any donations are appreciated.

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.

Bitterroot 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.

Toys for Tots collection

The following locations are collecting toys for the Toys for Tots program - local donations stay local! Florence: Farmers State Bank, Gary & Leo's, Florence Schools, Florence-Carlton Chiropractic, Ace Hardware. Stevensville: Farmers State Bank, Ravalli County Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, Valley Drug, Stevensville Elementary, Lone Rock School, Stevensville Feed and Farm, Stevensville Medical Center. Victor: Farmers State Bank, Victor Mercantile, Victor Schools. Donate online at stevensville-mt.toysfortots.org For more information, contact Leah Duke, 493-4293.

SAFE Giving Tree

SAFE is sponsoring its Annual Giving Tree for Shelter, Transitional Housing and Outreach participants through December 17. Each family has ornaments on the tree asking for gifts they cannot afford to provide for their families. Anyone who is interested in helping a family in need this holiday season can pick an ornament from the tree and return the gift unwrapped or in a gift bag by December 17. The Giving Tree is located in Hamilton, at SAFE on First Thrift Store, across from Gas n' Grub. SAFE on First is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, call Connie at 363-2793.

Quilt raffle

A full sized Colonial American themed quilt made by Vicki DeVore is being raffled off to help with medical expenses for cataract surgery and medication for Gwen Anderson, Vicki’s mother. Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5 and can be purchased at DeVore Printing, 303 Buck Street, Stevensville. The drawing will be held December 4th. For more information call Jay at 777-2403.

Gymnastic Booster Club fundraiser

The Ravalli County Gymnastic Booster Club is selling beautiful, locally handmade Christmas wreaths. There are many sizes and prices with beautiful bows in a variety of colors to choose from. Candy canes, crosses and centerpieces with candles are also available. These wreaths will be delivered to your door at a date of your choosing or they can be shipped for a small extra fee. The proceeds go to help defray the cost of competition for your local gymnastic team and to provide scholarships for five children in the valley to do gymnastics throughout the year. The Booster Club is non-profit so your purchase is tax deductible. To order your wreath or for more information call Becki at 369-0576 or your favorite gymnast.

November Bitterroot Public Library events

November 30: Family Activity Night: Extraterrestrial Party! 6:30-8 p.m., Main floor of library. Yellowstone hot springs and aliens: what’s the connection? Bring your family to the Extraterrestrial Party at the Bitterroot Public Library and find out. This party is one of a series of NASA family events being held by the local library. Come face-to-face with some Sea Monkeys and learn about their travels in space. Make some Shrinky Dinks and find out what scientists really think aliens might look like. Construct and launch a rocket outside!

Soroptimists candy sale

Soroptimists of Hamilton is selling Sees Christmas Candy in the parking lot of First Security Bank on the corner of Main and Hwy 93 in Hamilton. The Soroptimist Sees trailer will be open Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10:30 to 4:00 and closed on Sundays and Thanksgiving Day. Come early for the best selection. All the proceeds from the Soroptimist sale of Sees candy go to support Soroptimist service projects such as awards and scholarships, the SAFE House, Genesis House, women’s cardiac health education and mammograms at Marcus Daly Hospital, and the Options Program which brings information about jobs for women to women.

Positive Parenting Program

Is there a lot of attitude in your home? Do tantrums abound? Does defiance, the silent treatment, or do arguments between adults and kids rule in your household? Want to change all that? South Valley Child and Family Center will help you achieve that change. If you have a child from 3-14 years of age having behavior problems, the Positive Parenting Program at SVCFC is for you. This eight-week program is designed for parents who are committed to raising happy, healthy kids and features a low fee, one hour a week time commitment and is simple and positive. Booking individual sessions now. Call 363-3450 to sign up.

Wednesday, November 24

Preschool story time

Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, November 24 to enjoy “Cats and Kitties” and hear books read by Mark Rhodes. 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.

Thursday, November 25

Thanksgiving dinner

You’re invited to a Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, November 25 at Grace Lutheran Church in Hamilton. Serving will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free bus service is available by calling 363-1924, or you can have a meal delivered by calling the same number.

Thanksgiving dinner

A Community Thanksgiving Dinner Celebration will be held Thursday, November 25 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. at the Stevensville School multi-purpose room, 300 Park Street. This is a free event for those who wish to spend the holiday with their community family. Enjoy food, fun, football, games, crafts and friendship. Monetary donations and non-perishable food items may be dropped off at Ridgeway Pharmacy in Super One. Make checks payable to Joy To the World Foundation, a nonprofit organization. For more information call 888-4113 (leave message).

Friday, November 26

NV Library ‘Food for Fines’ program

From November 26 through December 17, North Valley Public Library will be waiving fines of those patrons who donate to Pantry Partners, Stevensville’s local food bank. There will be a collection box at the front circulation desk of the Library. The most needed items are unopened, non-perishable items such as cereal, pasta, dried beans, rice, canned soups, toiletries and pet food. Fees for damaged or lost items will not be waived. For more information, call the library at 777-5061. The Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville.

Daly Mansion Holiday Tours

Bring your friends and family to the Daly Mansion during the holidays. The Mansion is beautifully decorated for the season and will be open for self-guided tours Friday, November 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays, November 27, December 4, 11, and 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Holiday treats will be served in the Kitchen. Tour prices are $5.00 for adults, $2.00 for children, and children under six years old will be admitted free. As a thank you to our veterans and enlisted service members, Holiday Tours will be $1.00 off for veterans and free to children of the enlisted soilders. The Daly Mansion is located at 251 Eastside Highway between Hamilton and Corvallis. For more information, call 363-6004, ext. 3#.

Saturday, November 27

Corvallis Christmas bazaar

The Corvallis Christmas Bazaar will be held Saturday, November 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The bazaar is sponsored by the Corvallis High School Boys and Girls Basketball Teams and Sidewinders 4-H Club and will be held in both Corvallis High School gyms. Concessions will be available. Admission is free. For more information contact Dori Tintzman, 369-2131.

Benefit dance concert

River Street Dance Theater will present a concert of music and dance titled "Full Moon, Full Belly" on Saturday, November 27 at 8 p.m. at the Hamilton High Performing Arts Center, 327 Fairgrounds Rd. There will be three parts to the show: classical singers Scott Milner and Megan Walker, folk rock musicians Kirby Erickson and Company, and River Street Dance Theater. River Street Dance Theater will be presenting modern, tap, and jazz dances and premiering a dance based on water images and choreographed by Angela Banchero-Kelleher, assistant professor in dance at Utah Valley University. Proceeds will benefit local food banks Haven House, Pantry Partners and the Darby Bread Box. Admission is $15 adults, $7 students and children. Call 363-1203 for more information.

Square dance

Boots ‘n’ Calico Square Dance Club will provide a plus workshop on Saturday, November 27 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. This workshop is available to all clubs and visitors in the area that dance plus. The price is included with your admission for the club dance that follows the workshop. The dance level will be mainstream with plus tips about every third tip. Round dances will be provided between dances. The caller will be Eddie Fields. Refreshments will be provided by club members and the club. If you have questions, call Laurie Dunbar, 961-4528, or Donna Hicks, 961-0111.

Dances of Universal Peace

The Dances of Universal Peace will be held Saturday, November 27 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at First Christian Church, 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. The dances use simple movement, music, and lyrics to touch the spiritual essence within ourselves. These simple circle dances include themes of peace, healing, and the celebration of life’s mysteries drawn from Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Christian and Earth-based traditions. Each dance is taught each time, no partners are necessary, live music. $3 donation for space rental. Refreshments served afterwards. Bring more light into your life! Join the Circle! For more information, call Brian at 363-4026.

Sunday, November 28

Accordion jam session

The Five Valley Accordion Association will hold its next jam/dance session on Sunday, November 28 at the Hamilton Eagles Lodge from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $3.00 for members, $4.00 for non-members, and free for performing musicians. Live music is provided by accordions, guitars, banjos, bass, and drums. Come join in on the music, fun and dancing. For more information call Mike Jones at 642-9693.

Stevi school lunch menu

Nov. 29-Dec. 3

Monday – Breakfast: Cereal, fruit, milk; Lunch: Burrito, green beans, apricots

Tuesday – Breakfast: French toast, fruit, milk; Lunch: Breaded beef sticks, mashed potatoes with gravy, grapes

Wednesday – Breakfast: Cereal bars, fruit, milk; Lunch: Hamburgers with buns, taters, mixed fruit

Thursday – Breakfast: Danishes, fruit, milk; Lunch: chicken drumsticks, fresh veggies with ranch, apples

Friday – Breakfast: Cereal, fruit, milk; Lunch: Ham, scrambled eggs, pancakes, peaches.

Tuesday, November 30

Extraterrestrial Party

Yellowstone hot springs and aliens: what’s the connection? Bring your family to the Extraterrestrial Party at the Bitterroot Public Library and find out. This party is one of a series of NASA family events being held by the local library. Come face-to-face with some Sea Monkeys and learn about their travels in space. Make some Shrinky Dinks and find out what scientists really think aliens might look like. Construct and launch a rocket outside! Dress up like beings from outer space if you want and have a fashion show that’s out of this world! The Extraterrestrial Party will be held at the Bitterroot Public Library on Tuesday, November 30 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. This is the final of four family events with NASA space themes that the Bitterroot Public library is hosting.

Poetry reading

Greg Pape of Stevensville, Montana’s poet laureate from 2007 to 2009, will give a poetry reading Tuesday, November 30, as the final installment of the 2010 Provost’s Distinguished Faculty Lecture Series.

He will present “Journey-Work: A Reading of New and Selected Poems by Greg Pape” at 6 p.m. in the University Center Theater. The reading is free and open to the public, and a reception will follow.

Pape is a professor of creative writing at UM. He has taught at the University since 1987 and is a former director of UM’s Creative Writing Program. He is the author of nine books, including “Border Crossings”; “Black Branches”; “Storm Pattern”; “Sunflower Facing the Sun,” which won the Edwin Ford Piper Prize, now called the Iowa Prize; and “American Flamingo,” winner of a Crab Orchard Open Competition Award.

His poems have been published widely in magazines and literary reviews, such as The Atlantic, Iowa Review, The New Yorker and Northwest Review and Poetry. They also have been featured on National Public Radio and read by Garrison Keillor on “The Writers’ Almanac.” He has received the Discovery/The Nation Award, two National Endowment for the Arts Individual Fellowships, the Pushcart Prize and the Richard Hugo Memorial Poetry Award.

For more information about the lecture series, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.umt.edu/provost/pdfls" http://www.umt.edu/provost/pdfls or call the UM Office of the Provost at 243-4689.

Wednesday, December 1

MMGA chapter meeting

The Bitterroot Chapter of the Montana Medical Growers' Association will meet Wednesday, December 1 from 6:30 to 7:30 at the North Valley Public Library Community Room, 208 Main Street, Stevensville. Discussion topics include caregiver security protocols, political strategy, effective local lobbying tactics, and the latest in Medical marijuana news. Free coffee and doughnuts will be provided. The meeting is free and open to the public. Call 406-285-1034 for details.

Thursday, December 2

SAFE hosts Silver Holiday Tea

Travel back in time and celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with a Silver Holiday Tea at the historic Daly Mansion. This delightful event will be held on Thursday, December 2 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. A special dance from “The Dreams of the Nutcracker” will be performed by Ballet Bitterroot Performing Arts at 5:30. Tickets for this special event are $30 per person. In addition to a light afternoon tea, wonderful surroundings and special dance performance, there will be a raffle featuring a framed Giclee print on canvas, “Time For Coffee,” by western artist Gary Lynn Roberts. Raffle tickets are $10 each or 6 for $50. All proceeds from the Silver Holiday Tea will be used to support SAFE, the Bitterroot Valley’s domestic and sexual violence services program. For more information or to make a reservation, call 363-2793.

Friday, December 3

Stevensville Gift Fair

“A Montana Country Christmas” Gift Fair will be held Friday, December 3 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, December 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Stevensville. There will be an art and craft sale as well as a home-based business show, along with annual Parade of Lights and Living Nativity, merchant sales and open houses, caroling, photos with Santa and more. For more information call the Stevensville Main Street Association, 777-3773, or visit HYPERLINK "http://www.mainstreetstevensville.com" www.mainstreetstevensville.com.

Book signing

On First Friday, December 3, Hamilton author Joan Sisson will be signing her latest book "Smiles" and other books as a benefit for the Bitterroot Youth Home. The signing will be held at the Bitterroot Christian Bookstore, 204 W. Main Street, from 2:30 until 5 p.m. Forty percent of all her book sales from this event will go to the Home. This book is appropriate for "any age person who can read" and is especially suitable as a gift. Joan is the author of seven books. In addition to "Smiles", two are for young children, three are for teens, and one is a transcription of her father's autobiography, "A Life in Each Decade of the 20th Century." That bio, she says, is definitely only for adults.

First Friday Fish Fry

The Knights of Columbus will host a First Friday Fish Fry at St. Mary’s

Family Center, 333 Charlo Street, Stevensville on Friday, December 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. Fare includes fish, fries, slaw, vegetable, roll/butter, lemonade, coffee and dessert. Cost is $7 for adults, $3.50 for under 12. Proceeds help fund K of C charities.

First Friday at NV Library

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

Ballet performance

Ballet Bitterroot will present its annual performance of "Dreams of Nutcracker" on Friday, December 3 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, December 4 at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center. Arabian soloist will be Lauren Clairmont, 16, a junior at Corvallis High School. She has been dancing for eleven years under the instruction of Char Pigman and Paige Harlan. Lauren has also studied dance at the Eagle Performing Arts Center in Eagle, Idaho, and at Ballet Idaho in Boise, Idaho under masters Trey McIntire and Heather Hawk from New York City Ballet. The Cavalier Prince will be danced by professional guest artist Brian Morris. Proceeds from this performance benefit dancers through dance scholarships in the Bitterroot Valley. Advanced tickets can be purchased at Wireless Connection in the Sportsman Complex in Hamilton, or at the door one hour before the performances. For more information call 961-1818.

Madonna and Native Scene exhibit

During Stevensville's "Montana Country Christmas" on First Friday, December 3, Historic St. Mary's Mission will host a Madonna and Nativity Scene Exhibit. The Visitor Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. for this special Christmas event. Step back in time by visiting the 1866 Chapel from 7 to 9 p.m.

Art show

The Frame Shop & Gallery will host a variety of artists for the upcoming First Friday on December 3 from 6 to 9 p.m. Representing “Artists Along the Bitterroot” will be Ed Wolff, Steve Wilson, Shirley Sylvester, Barbara Michelman, Bobbie McKibbin, Mark Lagerstrom, and Cynthie Fisher. In addition, there will be a display of wearable textiles, and etchings by Deborah Donelson of New Mexico. It will be worth the stop on that busy evening, and all this work will be shown through the end of December.

The Frame Shop & Gallery is located at 325 Main St, Hamilton. Contact Ann Harding for more information at 363-6684.

Art show

The Artists' Shop, gallery of regional art and fine craft, 304 N. Higgins, downtown Missoula presents "Best of Show," new work by member artists. This annual holiday mixed media show will feature the work

of area artists from the Bitterroot, Flathead and Missoula valleys. The show will run through December. There will be a holiday open house and opening reception Friday, December 3, from 5 to 8 p.m.

CD release party

The Montana A Cappella Society will hold a CD release party on Friday, December 3 from 5 to 9 p.m. at 175 S. 2nd Street, Hamilton. There will be food, fun and song!

Saturday, December 4

Darby Christmas Markets

On Saturday, December 4, a holiday market will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Darby Clubhouse on Hwy. 93 and a Christmas bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the St. Philip Benizi Church, 312 Miles Street. There will be craft booths, baked goods, white elephants and more. Come early for coffee and sweet rolls. Lunch will be served at both locations. A raffle will be held to benefit Ravalli County charities. For more information call 821-3248 or 821-3779.

MTCAN benefit bake sale

The 2nd Annual Cookie Walk & Bake Sale, sponsored by the Montana Companion Animal Network (MTCAN), will be held Saturday, December 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Human Resource Council Building, located on the corner of Pine and Third Streets in Hamilton. This year talented area bakers along with the Montana Baking Company and Trapper Creek Job Corps have been busy whipping up their favorite holiday cookies of every flavor, shape and size along with pies, cakes, breads, jar gifts and candies to ring in the sweet season. Shoppers can tour the cookie tables to choose their favorites in any quantity, which will be sold by the pound and stock up on all the other individually priced sweet treats. This year will also feature a homemade, edible, decorated gingerbread dog house being raffled with the drawing at 2 p.m. All proceeds from the event will be used by MTCAN to assist animals in need throughout the coming year. For more information, visit www.mtcan.org or call 642-3785.

‘Splendor on Main’

“Splendor on Main”, a special holiday gala to benefit the Stevensville Main Street Association, will be held Saturday, December 4 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at 229B Main (formerly Bitterroot Christian Bookstore). The event will feature a fine wine tasting, hors d’ouevres buffet, auction and raffle. Tickets are $25 per person and reservations can be made by calling the Main Street office at 777-3773.

Sunday, December 5

Methodist Hanging of the Greens

The Stevensville United Methodist Church Choir invites you to the 53rd Annual Hanging of the Greens, Sunday, December 5 at 7 p.m. Just as “cookie bakers” have blended their precious ingredients for the most special Christmas cookies over the years, the SUMC choir has composed a program of peace, hope and love to illuminate the message of Jesus’ birth and life. You may be thinking, “Mmmmmm, sugar, butter, cinnamon...” Yes! You are right! But there’s more! The choir will be adding the words of Isaiah, St. Francis of Assisi, Mother Teresa, and Jesus to the mixture of Christmas carols old and new.

The church tradition of singing Christmas songs and decorating the church began in December 1957. It wasn’t until the following year that it was officially called the “Hanging of the Greens.” The four women who began the tradition are Ruby Longbottom, Anna Prince, Julie Wallace, and Emily Whitesitt.

Come lift your spirits with new Christmas music, the annual unpacking of the Nativity scene, children decorating the Christmas tree and many delicious Christmas cookies.

Monday, December 6

Victor Museum chocolate tasting

The Victor Heritage Museum is hosting its annual Chocolate Tasting Party and Silent Auction on Monday, December 6 from 5 to 9 p.m. (auction closes at 8:30 p.m.) at the Victor Heritage Museum, Blake and Main St, Victor. Cost is $5.00 per person (reduced family rates). Horse-drawn trolley rides will be available, weather permitting, as well as lots of great chocolate to eat and wonderful auction items to bid on. For more information contact JoAnn, 363-1509.

First Time Homebuyer Classes

The Bitter Root Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc. (RC&D) is holding a nationally certified homebuyer education class on December 6, 7, and 9 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 363-1444, extension 5 and let us know if you would like to reserve a space. At least 6 registered attendees are required to hold class. Attendance on all three nights is required for certification. The charge is $20 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 3 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. Homebuyer education classes are brought to you by the Bitter Root RC&D in partnership with US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Montana Board of Housing, NeighborWorks Montana, and the Human Resources Council. Completion of this class is required in order to qualify for some of the special homebuyer assistance programs.

Thursday, December 9

Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony

The Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony will be held on Thursday, December 9 at 7 p.m. at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital in conference rooms B/C for a special evening of music, poetry, and inspiration to cherish the memory of a loved one or ones who have passed. The Hospice Tree is illuminated during the Tree of Lights ceremony and will remain lit through January 1, 2011. Call Margaret Beattie, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, at 363-6503 for more information or to make your light and ornament purchases. Let a light shine on the Hospice Tree of Lights in remembrance of a friend or loved one. Purchase a light for $5.00 and or an ornament for $15.00 to honor someone special in your life. To assure your loved one’s name will be included in the Tree of Lights service on Dec. 9, make your purchases by December 3. Ornaments can be picked up at the Marcus Daly Hospice Center or for additional fee of $5.00 it will be mailed to you.

Saturday, December 11

Share Tree gift wrapping

Gift wrapping for the Christmas Share Tree will be held Saturday, December 11, and Saturday, December 18, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 402 Church Street in Stevensville. Volunteers are welcome. For more information, contact Leah Duke, Acts of Kindness, 777-1135.

Monday, December 13

CHS ‘Madrigal Dinners’

Amid roving minstrels and the cries of "Wassail, Wassail," you are invited to begin the holiday season by attending the "Merry Olde Madrigal Dinners" presented by the Corvallis Vocal Music Department. The dates for the festivities are December 13 and 14 at the Cornerstone Church in Hamilton from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Plans are in full swing to recreate all the pomp and charm of the Renaissance era. Costume design is by Gretchen Speiss. Jugglers, beggars, and musicians traditionally mingle with the guests offering their yuletide greeting in word and song. There will be song, dance, and skits presented by the CHS Vocal Music Department. The menu will include Cornish game hens and fixings, the Queen's dessert, as well as wassail, tea, and coffee. Ticket prices are $25.00 per plate. Sales begin November 22 at the Corvallis High School office. There will be no tickets available at the door.

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 Tuesday, December 14 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the City Council Chambers and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Job Service and Wednesday, December 28 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Job Service office. For more information call 542-2501.

Monday, December 20

Hamilton band concerts

The Hamilton Middle and High School Bands will present a concert on Monday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center at the high school. The concert will feature the middle school and high school bands performing standard wind band literature, as well as some holiday favorites.

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