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.

Operation Santa Paws

Animal lovers everywhere are invited to donate to Operation Santa Paws and help support the Bitter Root Humane Association. The BRHA houses hundreds of animals a year and helps find them homes. They are in need of the following items: liquid laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, paper towels, toilet paper, Simple Green all-purpose cleaner and surgical gloves, hand sanitizer and other items. BHRA also operates a “pet food bank” for people who might otherwise have to surrender their animals to the shelter. Donations of dry and canned cat food would be greatly appreciated. Last year, over 300 pounds of pet food was collected through Operation Santa Paws, as well as numerous cleaning supplies and other necessities. Donations can be dropped off at the Animal Shelter in Hamilton or Sapphire Animal Hospital (777-4399) or Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic (777-3844).

Florence Share Tree

The Florence Civic Club is again sponsoring the share tree at Farmers State Bank. Community members are asked to choose a tag from the tree. Once they have purchased the clothing gifts, the Civic Club and the Florence High School Key Club will wrap the presents. Community members are asked to return the clothing to the bank by December 15. Contact Candi Jerke at 273-0002 for more information. The Florence Civic Club is holding a raffle to support the Share Tree. Town Pump has donated a night’s stay at any Townhouse Inn in Montana. Santa Charlie has donated a one-hour Santa visit within 25 miles of Florence. Tickets are available from any Civic Club member. The drawing will be held on Dec. 15th.

Wednesday, December 8

Preschool story time

Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, December 8 to enjoy “It’s Pajama Time!” and hear books read by Sally Blevins. Feel free to wear YOUR pajamas! 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, December 9

Stevensville Art & Sculpture Society

SASS will meet on Thursday, December 9 at 10 a.m. at the Bitterroot Star at 215 Main Street, Stevensville. The special guest will be Kris Komar of the Bitterroot Heritage Trust and the Montana Arts Council who will talk about the very exciting 2011 Artreprenuer program. There will also be a discussion about the upcoming membership drive and a workshop program. Guests are welcome. Holiday snacks will be served. For information call Gary Knapp, 777-3797.

Stevensville Civic Club

The Stevensville Civic Club will meet Thursday, December 9 at 12 noon in the basement of St. Mary’s Mission Gift Shop. Tracy Bugli with Outwest Catering will be providing lunch for $6 per person. Guests are welcome. RSVP to Jamie at Rocky Mountain Bank, 777-5553.

Stevensville School Facility Committee

The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, December 9 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.

Cross-Country Ski Club

The Bitterroot Valley Cross-Country Ski Club will hold its annual Christmas Potluck Dinner on Thursday, December 9, followed by a presentation by long-time wilderness mountaineer and author Mike Hoyt. Hoyt will present a talk and digital slide show with beautiful photographs of his amazing adventures into the many peaks of the Bitterroot Mountains. Visitors and potential new members are welcome. The event starts at 6 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church at 1220 W. Main St in Hamilton. Bring a dish to share, your own utensils and plates.

BPL Fellowship Club

The BPL Fellowship Club will have its next meeting on Thursday, December 9, to analyze and discuss the book entitled "Infinite Possibilities: The Art of Living Your Dreams” by Mike Dooley. The meeting place will be the Community Room of the BPL, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. This book offers a fresh and inspiring look at how each of us can turn within to discover our true purpose, ignite our imagination, and manifest our desires. Dooley explains that our dreams are not accidental or inconsequential, but rather serve as invitations to understand the truths about ourselves, hinting at the lives we can create. All we have to do is learn to open our heart and mind, thinking far beyond what spirituality has traditionally meant, to understand that life is the ultimate adventure, filled with opportunities that day by day lead us to discover who we really are and why we are here. Infinite Possibilities can help guide us to living the life of our dreams – purposefully, lovingly, and brilliantly – by showing us how, as spiritual beings filled with infinite potential, we can create our own reality, our own fate, and our own luck. Mike Dooley lives in Orlando, Florida, where he runs TUT’s (Totally Unique T-Shirts) Adventurers Club and sends out his Notes from the Universe to hundreds of thousands of email subscribers each weekday. As a featured teacher in “The Secret” book and DVD, Dooley is actively using the concepts and principles he expounds upon to travel the world, speaking on life, dreams, and happiness. The Fellowship Club meets every second Thursday of the month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Community Room of the Bitterroot Public Library. The FC is free and open to anyone seeking to promote individual and collective well-being. Call 363-1670 for more information.

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.

Friday, December 10

South Valley Pachyderm Club

Newly elected Ravalli County officials – County Attorney Bill Fulbright, Commissioners Susy Foss, Matt Kanenwisher and Ron Stolz – will be the guest speakers for the next meeting of the South Valley Pachyderm Club on Friday, December 10 at 12 noon. There will be opportunity for questions and discussion. The Club meets at BJ's Restaurant, 900 N. 1st street, Hamilton. The South Valley Pachyderm Club, which meets on the second and fourth Fridays of the month, is an officially recognized allied organization of the Republican Party. Members of the public are welcome.

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.

Corvallis Christmas Bazaar

The Corvallis United Methodist Church will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, December 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church, corner of Eastside Highway and Cemetery Road, Corvallis. Soup and dessert luncheon starts at 11 a.m.

Flea market

A flea market will be held Saturday, December 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. Lunch will be available. Rent a table for $5 by calling Katie at 363-2316 or 363-5181.

Grange Christmas Party

The Rocky Mountain Grange #116 is hosting a Christmas Party on Saturday, December 11 at 4 p.m. at 1436 S. 1st Street in Hamilton. All are welcome. Bring a dish to share. For more information, call Corrine at 544-8586.

Square dance club

Boots ‘n’ Calico Square Dance Club will meet Saturday, December 11 for a plus workshop from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center, 820 N. 4th in Hamilton. This workshop is available to all clubs and visitors in the area that dance plus. The price is included with your admission for the dance that follows. Following this workshop will be a club dance from 8 to 9:30 p.m. 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. For more information call Laurie Dunbar at 961-4528 or Donna Hicks at 961-0111.

Bitterroot Valley Chorus Christmas Concert

The Bitterroot Valley Chorus will present its 38th annual Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 12 at 2 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center, Hamilton High School. Under the artistic direction of Peggy Leonardi, the concert will include selections from Handel’s “Messiah” and other seasonal favorites, including “O Holy Night,” “Masters In This Hall,” “O Come to the Manger,” “Gesu Bambino” and others. The Bitterroot Valley is fortunate to have so many talented musicians willing to donate their time to this yearly tradition. The adult chorus will be joined by a children's choir and orchestral accompaniment. Although the performances are a free gift to the community, a donation of $5 per person is suggested to help continue this holiday tradition.

Sunday, December 12

Lone Rock Park Board

The Lone Rock Division of the Ravalli County Park Board will meet Sunday, December 12 at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Fire House. The public is welcome.

Monday, December 13

Stevi school menu

December 13-17

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

Tuesday: Breakfast – Burrito, fruit, milk; Lunch – Mac & cheese, fresh carrots, apples

Wednesday: Breakfast – Multi-grain bars, fruit, milk; Lunch – Christmas Dinner (turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, corn, rolls, pineapple)

Thursday: Breakfast – French toast, fruit, milk; Lunch – Sea Wonders (fish), tossed salad w/ranch, kiwi

Friday: Breakfast – Cereal, fruit, milk; Lunch – Hot Pockets, mixed veggies, mixed fruit.

Hamilton Garden Club

The Hamilton Garden Club will meet Monday, December 13 for a Christmas party at the home of Elizabeth Kehmeier, 214 Wyant Lane. The meeting will be hosted by Elizabeth and the executive board. All members are to bring a wrapped gift for Christmas Bingo and an unwrapped homemade ornament for exchange. Reminder that the January, February and March meetings will be at 1 p.m. in the afternoon at a member’s home. For more information call Elizabeth at 363-5693.

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.

Stevensville Playhouse auditions

The Stevensville Playhouse will hold auditions for Neil Simon’s comedy "Barefoot in the Park" on Monday, December 13 at 7 p.m. at 319 Main Street. This romantic comedy focuses on newlyweds Corie and Paul as they begin married life in a tiny 5th floor walkup apartment in a mid-Manhattan brownstone. Paul is a strait-laced attorney, Corie a far more spontaneous free spirit. The young couple must contend with a lack of heat, a skylight that leaks snow, several long flights of stairs, oddball neighbor Victor Velasco, and Corie's well-meaning mother. Adjusting to married life isn’t so easy! Parts include: Corie Bratter, female 21-32; Paul Bratter, male 24–33; Telephone Man, male 35–55; Victor Velasco, male 45–65; Mrs. Ethyl Banks, female 45–58; Delivery Man, male (mute) 30-55. For more information call 777-2722. Audition material will be provided. Show opens February 18, 2011.

Tuesday, December 14

Blood drives

December 14, Hamilton Community, 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 275 Hattie Lane. For appointment call Tammie Mart, 642-3996.

December 16, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 903 S. 4th Street. Bus will be parked outside the gate. For appointment visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code RML.

December 20, Corvallis Physical Therapy, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., 1050 Eastside Highway Corvallis. Bus will be in the parking lot. For appointment visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code corvallisPT or for more information call Linda at 961-3914.

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.

Wednesday, December 15

Preschool story time

Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, December 15 to enjoy “Winter Wonders” and hear books read by Lisa DeMoss. 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, December 16

South Valley Civic Group

The next meeting of the South Valley Civic Group will be Thursday, December 16 at 6 p.m. at the Naughty Moose in Conner. Everyone is welcome.

Saturday, December 18

Hamilton Christmas Bird Count

On Saturday, December 18, Bitterroot Audubon members and other birders will count all the birds present in a 7-? mile radius of Hamilton. The 24th annual Hamilton Christmas Bird Count, sponsored by National Audubon Society and Bitterroot Audubon, adds information to the other Christmas Bird Counts throughout the nation and the rest of North America. 2010 marks the 111th anniversary of Christmas Bird Counts in North America. Volunteer citizen scientists will count birds in over 1,000 CBC circles, and pay $5 for the privilege to participate, in the effort to document trends in wintering bird populations. Hamilton birders should meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Teller Wildlife Refuge Education Building (Slack Barn) about ? mile south of the junction of Chaffin and Quast Lanes, north of Corvallis. There counters will be organized into parties of 3 or 4, always matching bird “experts” with people who are not as skilled or confident of their abilities. Anyone with an interest in birds, no matter their skill level, is welcome. The day can be a marvelous learning opportunity for the beginner and extra eyes in a party will contribute to more birds seen and identified.

At noon everyone will meet back at the Slack Barn to compare the morning results and enjoy Bill Good’s special chili and Oreos lunch, enhanced by some of the best Christmas desserts found anywhere. The group will then reorganize and spend the rest of the day finding birds in places not covered in the morning. If you cannot participate in the field counts you can help by counting the birds at your feeders. If you live within about 7 miles of Hamilton, know most or all the bird species frequenting your feeders and have a few hours, or all day, to count the visitors, call Colleen Powell, 363-2116, to receive instructions so you can help.

Around 30 participants and 20 feeder watchers are expected to participate seeing about 65 different species of birds and a total of over 6,000 birds, if the future reflects history. Bring your binoculars, bird guide, warm clothes, and a jug of hot something to help Bitterroot Audubon have a great birding day.

For more information call John Ormiston at 360-9530, or go to the Bitterroot Audubon website at HYPERLINK "http://www.bitterrootaudubon.org" www.bitterrootaudubon.org

Pancake breakfast

A pancake breakfast for the public will be held on Saturday, December 18 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. The menu will be pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, juice, coffee and more. Cost is $4 for adults and $2 for ages 12 and under.

Daly Mansion Christmas Party

Santa Claus will be the guest of honor at the Daly Mansion's Community Christmas Party on Saturday, December 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This family celebration will include holiday festivities such as live holiday music by pianist Joan Roe, The Bitterroot Ragtime Society, and harpist Jane Shigley, a gingerbread house demonstration by the gingerbread expert and author Janice Mineer, self-guided tours of the beautifully decorated Mansion, cookie decorating, crafting, a reading of Mrs. Mineer’s children’s book “Gingerbread from the Heart” with Mrs. Santa, photos with Santa, and more. There will be a special holiday admission rate that day of $5.00 for adults and $2.00 for children. Children under six will be admitted free. In thanks to our veterans, veterans will be given a $1.00 discount off of their admission and children of enlisted men and women will be admitted free. For more information, call 363-6004, ext. 3#. The Daly Mansion is located at 251 Eastside Hwy between Hamilton and Corvallis.

Sunday, December 19

Children’s Christmas Program

The Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College Street, Stevensville, invites you to the children’s Christmas pageant on Sunday, December 19 at 10:15 a.m. Everyone is invited to join in this worship service featuring the congregation’s young people. Let the kids help you get in the Christmas spirit with their portrayal of the first Christmas! Children are welcome in the service, but a nursery attendant will also be present.

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.

Tuesday, December 21

Blue Christmas Service

Sometimes called the “longest night,” the Blue Christmas service is a time when you can, with others, acknowledge the “blue” feelings you have at Christmas time. For many who have lost a loved one, this is a moment of pain. For others it is a lonely time of year. This is not a joyous season for everyone. In this service there will be singing of songs appropriate to the season, and reflections on pain through scripture. Share testimonials about loved ones, and pray for hope and comfort. The Blue Christmas Service will be held Tuesday, December 21 at 8 p.m. at Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College Street, Stevensville.

Friday, December 24

Christmas Eve Service

The Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College Street, Stevensville will hold a Christmas Eve worship service at 7 p.m. Join the congregation for worship, singing, and a joyful greeting of the Christ child. The service will close by singing “Silent Night” by candlelight.

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