The Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday from 7:30 to 9 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 375-9996.

Lilies of the Valley

An ensemble of female voices under the direction of Thelma Laws join together every Thursday evening, 7 to 9 p.m. at the Memorial Room of the United Methodist American Baptist Church, 611 N. 6th in Hamilton. You're invited to share your time, talents and fun in singing many categories of choral music: show tunes, Broadway, standard pops, spirituals, folk tunes, to name a few. The group strives toward seasonal programs for spring, fall and Christmas. Membership is always open to additional singers (no auditions!) or, if you're not a singer, you might consider assisting as an alternate piano accompanist. For more information call Donna, 363-1742, or Lola, 363-4633.

VFW meetings

VFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Hamilton the Woman's Auxiliary meets at 7 pm.

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous is a Twelve Step program that deals with eating behaviors. Is one of your goals to reach a healthy weight? This program offers a solution within reach of all those who want to find relief from an obsession with food. It meets weekly on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 203 Main Street, Stevensville, as well as on Saturdays at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Main St., Hamilton. For information, call 777-7160.

La Leche League

La Leche League is an international mother-to-mother network for moms who want to breastfeed their babies. Bitterroot LLL chapter meets in the North Valley Public Library community room the third Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Mothers and children and pregnant women are welcome. Call 239-5039 for more information.

Suicide Loss Support

When you suffer a loss due to suicide the grief is overwhelming. Most people don't know "just how you feel." What you can expect from SLS is someone who has experienced a loss from suicide to listen to you privately, or in a group setting. You may choose to be present but it is ok not to speak if you are not ready. SLS cares. Your loss matters and your grief is very real. SLS will support you in every way possible. Contact Shaun or Barbara Jo DesJardins, 777-3853.

Golden Agers

The Golden Age group meets every Friday from 8 to 10:30 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.

Saturday Kids Activities

Join the Montana Natural History Center each Saturday at 2 p.m. for a different exciting children’s program. Admission is 50 cents for kids, $1 for adults and members are free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Programs run about an hour to an hour and a half. Great for kids ages 5 and older. The center is located at 120 Hickory, Missoula.

Daly Mansion Holiday Tours

The Daly Mansion invites the public to celebrate the holiday season by touring the mansion. Beautifully decorated for the holidays, the Daly Mansion will be open for tours every Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through December 22. Entertainment and refreshments will be provided during the Friday evening tours. Entertainers include the Montana A Cappella Society (Nov. 30), Russell Perri (Dec. 7), Tim Shonkwiler (Dec. 14), and the Jack Frost Trio (Dec. 21). Tour prices are $8.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, $5.00 for children 6-17 years, and free for children 5 years and under. For more information, call 363-6004.

SEE Sign Cooperative Learning Group

SEE Sign Cooperative Learning Group meets Mondays at 5:30 p.m. at Active Care Chiropractic in Stevensville. Facilitators are Gayle Thom and Jenn Closson. Admission is a donation toward copies/ink. For more information email Jenn Closson at jennksc@hotmail.com.

Yoga in the Root

Yoga in the Root now offers a night class, beginning Iyengar style, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Stevensville. In addition, there are general hatha classes at 10:30 a.m. Mondays and at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Vigorous ashtanga classes are at 9 a.m. Mondays and 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. The program is at Active Care Chiropractic at 504 Main St. Call Jill at 370-9252, or e-mail yogaintheroot@gmail.com for information.

Senior Center bridge

Just a reminder that bridge is a game you can play for life, it is always a mental exercise that keeps our brains and wits sharp. If you don't play yet keep your eye peeled for the announcement of the fall free bridge lessons. These classes will teach you the basics and you can move on from there. If you already play bridge and want to play duplicate bridge, games are on Wednesdays at the Hamilton Senior Center at 1 p.m. You will need to bring a partner or call Judy Dameral at 363-0738. She will assist you in finding a partner.

The Morning Gig

Attention musicians! St. Stephen's is recruiting musicians for "The Morning Gig." At 11 a.m. on Sunday morning, gather at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church on Main Street in Stevensville to practice, and then play. Sleep in! Play nine holes! Then come play music. There is a place in the band for everyone - whatever you play, you'll have a spot. If your music teacher is bugging you to practice this summer, come and jam! Just dug your clarinet out of the closet? Here's a place to tune it up. Help everyone be more creative! For more information call Suzanne at 529 6194 or email sartley@bresnan.net.

American Legion

The American Legion Post 134 meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at the IOOF hall in Florence at 7 p.m.

Waldorf Play Group

The Waldorf Play Group meets every Tuesday at Common Ground in Hamilton, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with snack provided. Parents are encouraged to attend with their young children (ages 1 to 5) to explore imagination play, with fairy tales, songs, and seasonal creative activities. All are welcome. Contact Kim Delvo at 369-0213 for more information.s

Library storytimes

The North Valley Public Library in Stevensville offers story times for children ages seven and under on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Volunteer Sandra Wilson shares stories, songs and crafts with children and their families each week. Alternating weeks feature special themes such as letters, numbers or pets. No registration is required. For more information, call the library at 777-5061.

SAFE support groups

SAFE, Supporters of Abuse Free Environments, hosts weekly ongoing support groups for women and children. Women’s groups focus on healing from domestic and sexual violence, building self-esteem, inner reflection, creative expression and other topics of interest to women. Come as often or as little as you want. Groups are held weekly on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Children’s Groups are held on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Children work on self-exploration, boundaries, and conflict resolution. This group is for ages 5 to 12. Teen Group is held every Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. This group is for ages 13-18 and focuses on teen issues, dating and healthy relationships. Groups are held at SAFE in our Community Resource Building, 150 Morning Star Way, Hamilton. Free childcare is available. For more information contact SAFE, 363-2793.

Caregiver coffee break

Are you one of the millions of Americans who help someone else by providing companionship, preparing meals, running errands, driving to doctors appointments or by simply doing whatever needs to be done to assist someone who is ill or homebound?

Aspen Hospice recognizes the complexity of caregiving and offers a time of respite. Whether or not the person you care for receives services from Aspen Hospice, you, as a caregiver, can find encouragement, support and information at the Caregiver Coffee Break every Wednesday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at 230 Marcus Street in Hamilton. Stop in anytime and stay as long as you like. Reservations are not required and coffee breaks are provided at no charge. For additional information, contact Elizabeth at 777-5009.

Tax counseling

Volunteer AARP tax counselors will be available to help seniors with their tax returns starting the first week in February. Appointments are available in Hamilton on Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. by calling the Hamilton Senior Center at 363-5181. In Stevensville appointments are on Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m. by calling the Stevensville Senior Center at 777-5681.

Lions Club ski bus

The Hamilton Lions Club has sponsored the ski bus program for local youth since 1975 and is doing so again this year. The Ski Bus takes youth to Lost Trail Ski Resort on Saturdays, January 5, 12, 19, 26, and February 2, 9, 16. Cost is $5 per rider, with season ticket prices of $15 for under 13 and $20 for 13 and older. Depart from Westview Center, Hamilton at 8:30 a.m. (load at 8 a.m.) and return to Westview by 5 p.m. Rental forms for equipment are available at the bus; rental fees are paid at lodge when getting equipment.

Commod benefit raffle

The Commod Thrift Store is raffling a matted and framed original acrylic by noted Montana artist Ron Jenkins. Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. Funds raised will help pay for their upcoming expansion. The drawing will be held on Monday, March, 31. The artwork is on display at the store located at 215 N. 6th Street in Hamilton behind Washington School. Hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call Frank at 363-2134 for more information.

Driver's ed class

Sign-ups for the next session of driver's education classes at Stevensville High School are being taken now until January 29. Dates for the class are approximately February 11 through April 9. Any student who is at least 14-1/2 years old by February 26 or older is eligible. Cost is $250. The first informational meeting for students of Stevensville High School will be held January 29 at 12:10 p.m. in high school room #3. Out-of-district and/or home schooled students may register by phone. Information will then be mailed as soon as possible. Call John Munk, 777-5539, for more information.

Museum Sunday Series

Jan. 20th, History of Smoke Jumping - Have you ever wondered how the harebrained scheme of Smoke Jumping developed into one of the most effective fire fighting tools? Hear Mark Matthews’ presentation on the first decade of smoke jumping and the Mann Gulch Fire of 1949.

Jan. 27th, Cowboy Artists - Dick Ellis, Bitterroot Valley resident and expert on Cowboys and Indians, will engage you with his stories about the great Cowboy Artists. This week he will start with Remington as he shows you examples of their work and adds interesting stories about their lives.

Feb. 3rd, Storytelling - Diana Rohlman, Stevensville author of a new children’s book, will tell stories for the children. Then the children will have the opportunity to dress-up and act out a story. Bring all the aspiring actresses and actors to the Museum.

The Sunday Series is held each Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Ravalli County Museum 205 Bedford in Hamilton. Museum hours are Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 10-4, Saturday 9-1 and Sunday 1-4 with a program of historical or cultural significance starting at 2 p.m. Admission is $3 per adult, $5 per couple, students 6-18 are $1. New family admission is $6. Call 363-3338 for more information or email rcmuseum@qwestoffice.net.

Martin Luther King Day celebration

The Bitterroot Human Rights Alliance will host its 13th Annual Martin Luther King Day Potluck and Celebration, Sunday, January 20, 6 to 9 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Main St. Hamilton (just before the west bridge).

Guest speaker Christine Kaufmann, Montana State Senator and Executive Director of the Montana Human Rights Network, will give a talk following dinner titled, "We Have a Dream: Civil Rights for Gay Americans," on how the struggle for equality under the law for gay and lesbian Americans is a continuation of Dr. King's struggle for civil rights of black Americans. For more information call 363-1329.

Bitterroot Audubon

Global warming and its effects to habitat for wildlife and humans are major concerns of the National Audubon Society. Bitterroot Audubon's January program will feature a presentation by Amy Cilimburg, Global Warming Grassroots Organizer for Montana Audubon. Amy will discuss "Global Warming, Birds, Wildlife and Montana: What we know and what we can do." She will highlight the threats as well as solutions and opportunities to get involved. In addition, Steve Hoffman, Executive Director of Montana Audubon, will give a presentation on "Montana Audubon's Important Bird Area Project" (IBAs). The IBA program establishes priorities for bird habitat conservation worldwide. Thus far 2,000 IBAs have been identified in the U.S., with 31 in Montana (including the Bitterroot Valley). Come learn about the status of the IBA program in Montana and what the chapters are doing to advance this critical bird conservation initiative. The program will be Monday, January 21 at 7 p.m. at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge Visitors' Center north of Stevensville. The program is free, and the public is invited to attend. Contact Kay Fulton at 642-3794 for more information.

Martin Luther King Day event

Across the nation, individuals and organizations will be observing Martin Luther King Day by serving their neighbors in churches, food banks, youth and community centers. Dr. King sought to forge the common ground on which people from all walks of life could join together to address important community issues.

Observing this day locally, Monday, January 21, WORD's Family Resource Center program and the Montana Literacy Support Corps are hosting a gathering in Florence for senior citizens and Florence Carlton Middle School students. The event will provide an opportunity for young people and senior citizens to compare life experiences growing up in the first half of the 20th century and the early 21st Century. When asked common questions these two groups will share their experiences with educational, social, cultural and economic circumstances. This event will provide an opportunity to increase awareness and appreciate the diversity and similarities among youth and senior citizens.

This Martin Luther King Day project is a collaborative effort between Women's Opportunity and Resource Development (WORD), the Florence Branch of Farmers State Bank, Florence Carlton Middle School, the Ravalli County Council on Aging, the FCCC Friendship Club, Majestic Bus Company, and the Florence Carlton Community Church.

The project was selected by the Corporation of National Service to be featured on the National Martin Luther King Day website. To learn more about the significance of this day and see more about this project go to http://my.mlkday.gov/s/wordfrc/index.aspx.

Republican Women's Club

The Ravalli County Republican Women's Club will hold their monthly meeting and luncheon on Tuesday, January 22, at 11:30 a.m. at BJ's Restaurant in Hamilton. The featured speaker this month will be Tim Fox, Republican candidate for Montana State Attorney General. The meeting is open to members and their guests. For lunch reservations, call Karolyn Simpson at 961-5207.

Early Childhood Training Series

Ravalli County MtAEYC’s will present its First Annual Early Childhood Training Series at Ravalli Head Start, 81 Kurtz Lane, Hamilton. The schedule is:

Tuesday, January 22 - Math & Science

Tuesday, February 19 - Literacy & Language

Tuesday, March 25 - Creative Arts

Each session will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

For more information contact Felicia at 777-3707.

Maintaining Healthy Streams in an Agricultural Environment

The Ravalli County Extension Office, Ravalli County Right to Farm & Ranch Board, and Ravalli County Streamside Setback Committee are co-sponsoring a presentation and panel discussion entitled Maintaining Healthy Streams in an Agricultural Environment at the Corvallis Grange on Dutch Hill Road west of Corvallis on Tuesday, January 22 at 7 p.m. Gene Surber, Retired MSU Extension Specialist and Independent Consultant on Livestock Management Issues, will present a talk on Streamside Livestock Management. A panel discussion will follow with Hans McPherson, Director of MT Farm Bureau; Laurie Riley, Executive Director Bitter Root Water Forum; Linda Habeck, Horse Owner/Breeder/Trainer; Henry Burkwhat, NRCS District Conservationist; and Tom Ruffatto Chair Bitterroot Conservation District.

The purpose of the panel is to identify recommendations for streamside setback regulations, how the NRCS helps landowners with stream health, potential streamside setback impacts to agriculture, ways of managing horses and streams together, and receive Streamside Setback Committee updates

Although this free presentation and panel discussion is designed for streamside landowners with an agricultural interest, the entire public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served.

Bitterroot Quilters Guild

The Bitterroot Quilters Guild will meet on Wednesday, January 23, at 6:30 p.m. in the Woodside Grange. Anyone interested in quilting is welcome to attend. The speaker will be Judy Parkins, program chair for the Guild. She will speak on "Fun, Fiber, and Fabric." An R.N. who retired from nursing to pursue her passion for quilting, Judy now has her own local business as a professional longarm quilter. She is a member of the International Machine Quilters Association, the American Quilter's Society, and the International Quilt Association. Come at 6:30 p.m. on January 23 and enjoy Judy's trunk show and lecture.

Trout Unlimited meeting

Trout Unlimited will meet Thursday, January 17 meeting at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Elks Lodge, 203 State Street. The meeting is open to the public and there is no charge for admission.

One of the major conservation stories of the last few years is the compromise agreement hammered out by a partnership of timber companies, conservation groups and local communities on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The precedent setting proposal allows substantial logging and more official wilderness, numerous restoration activities and fuel reduction projects. The proposal has been crafted into a piece of federal legislation called the Beaverhead-Deerlodge Conservation, Restoration and Stewardship Act, and support is being sought from Montana federal legislators.

Montana TU was one of three mainstream conservation groups to help develop the Partnership agreement, and Montana TU Executive Director, Bruce Farling, played a key role in the negotiations. Bruce, along with a representative from the wood-products industry, will talk about the partnership at the January 17 meeting. They will give a presentation and then answer questions from the audience. Many Bitterrooters wonder if a similar partnership to end decades of rancor and move ahead with sound conservation-based forest management would be possible in the Bitterroot.

For more information, contact Bitterroot TU president Geoff Fitzgerald (mbreac@yahoo.com) or Doug Nation (363-2137, douglas.p.nation@gskbio.com).

Back Country Horsemen

Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen host their monthly meeting on Thursday, January 17 at the Corvallis School Cafeteria on Eastside Highway in Corvallis. Potluck dinner is at 6:30 p.m. and the general meeting starts at 7 p.m. The guest speakers are Marty Almquist, Wilderness Ranger for the Darby Ranger District, and Kirk Thompson, retired Forest Service roads and trails engineer. They will report on the field review of the South Fork of Lost Horse Creek Trail. Guests are welcome to attend, and if you have questions, call Karen at 961-0101.

Stevi Organization Retreat

The Stevensville Main Street Association will host the "2008 Organization Retreat" on Thursday, January 17, at 5:30 p.m. This retreat is for all organizations in the Stevensville area to come together with their calendar of events for 2008. Once the evening is concluded the information will be transferred to the Community Calendar for 2008. Call the Main Street Office if your organization plans to be represented to insure adequate refreshments. Pizza and drinks will be served.

Driver safety program

AARP is presenting its driver safety program at Marcus Daly Hospital from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on January 17 and 18. You must attend both days. The fee is $10.00 and pre-registration is required. Contact Jones Korman Insurance Agency at 363-6583 for registration information. The next class will be February 21-22 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There is no written test. Montana mandates an insurance discount for qualified graduates.

Missoula Art Museum benefit

Help support the Missoula Art Museum on Thursday, January 17, with the Artini event from 5:30 to 9 p.m. featuring Headwaters Dance Company. A Live Art Auction will be at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at missoulaartmuseum.org. The museum is located at 335 N. Pattee St., Missoula. Call 728-0447, ext. 221 for more information.

Winter tennis leagues

The Montana Tennis Association announces the formation of local winter leagues for men’s and women’s singles, doubles at NTRP levels 2.5-4.5 and mixed doubles for 6.0- 9.0. Players arrange their own match times. The deadline to register is January 10; play begins January 15 and must be completed by March 1. For more details contact M.C. Beeby at 406-431-3152 or tennis@mt.net.

Business seminars

The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce, Ravalli County Economic Development Authority and Job Service Employers Committee present the following seminars:

• January 16 - Unleashing Accountability - Extreme Contribution

• February 20 - Firing Up Commitment for Customer Focus & Box Store Survival Gear

Sessions are from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Bitterroot River Inn Conference Center in Hamilton. Individual sessions are $45 per person for Chamber members and $60 per person for non-members

These sessions are a must for all businesses who want to keep their businesses moving into the future.

Call Pat at 363-2400 to register.

Local author book signing

Tate Publishing and Enterprises is proud to announce the release of the new book "A New Year's Family" by Victor author Cookie Grimes. A book signing will be held Saturday, January 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Waldenbooks at Southgate Mall in Missoula. In her new children's book, Cookie Grimes relates the heartwarming story of a young boy, his mama, and all the animals and birds around their lake who work together to find Sarah a husband. "A New Year's Family" demonstrates to children – and is a reminder to adults – that the appearance on the outside is not nearly as important as the character on the inside.

According to Donna Chumley, Associate Director of Marketing for Tate Publishing and Enterprises, "We are honored to present 'A New Year's Family' and want to introduce it to as many market venues as possible right away, but especially to the author's local community first."

Bowhunter education classes

Missoula bowhunter education classes will begin early in 2008 with the first class scheduled for Saturday, January 19. Ten classes are planned for Missoula between January and May.

The January and February class schedule includes four classes offered on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Missoula Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) office, 3201 Spurgin Road. Students can elect to take a class Jan. 19, Feb. 2, Feb. 9, or Feb. 16. Students must also complete a half-day field course set for Saturday, March 1.

To register for a January or February class, students must stop by the Missoula FWP office during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., beginning Jan. 2. Classes are limited to 35 students, and registration is open until the class fills. A parent or guardian must accompany students under 18 to register.

Other Missoula classes will be held in March, April and May. By state law, all first time bowhunters must complete a bowhunter education course in order to purchase a bow and arrow license. Bowhunters born after January 1, 1985 must also show proof of completing a hunter education program.

For more information or to request a copy of this schedule, contact the Missoula FWP office at 542-5500 or log onto the web site, fwp.mt.gov. Follow links to “Education” and then “Hunter Education.”

Bowhunter education courses will be offered in many other west-central Montana communities beginning in March. These schedules and dates will be announced as soon as they are available.

Pancake breakfast

A pancake breakfast for the public at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th on Saturday, January 19 from 8 to 10 a.m. The menu will be pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, juice, fruit and coffee. The cost is $4 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under.

Saturday Discovery Day—Wildlife Tracking Workshop

The Montana Natural History Center will hold a Wildlife Tracking Workshop featuring Elliott Parsons on Saturday, January 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $15 for non-members and $10 for members.

Join Elliott Parsons, UM PhD Student in wildlife biology and member of the Missoula Wildlife Tracking Club, for a day spent learning how to identify and interpret animal tracks as well as animal sign such as scat, rubs, chews and trails. He will also instruct on how to use bird language to follow unseen animals, how to keep a tracking journal and general winter wildlife ecology. Bring snow boots and appropriate warm weather gear as well as a lunch. Registration is required by calling 327-0405.

Rosemaling class

Christine Gunvaldson-Waltz will instruct a class on Norwegian Rosemaling (traditional decorative painting) on January 19, February 2 and February 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at her home on Lost Horse Road, south of Hamilton. The fee will be $30 for the three sessions. Students are to bring their own oil paints, cleaners and brushes, and a sack lunch. There will be a suggested list of materials at the Paper Clip in Hamilton. The Sons of Norway Lodge will provide linseed oil and wooden practice panels or attendees can bring their own objects to paint. The public is invited; reserve a place in the class by calling Christine at 363-3452.

Blood drive

Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital is sponsoring an American Red Cross community blood drive on Thursday, January 24 from 12:30 to 5:30 pm. in conference rooms B/C of the hospital. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged. For more information contact Gary Schulz at 375-4451.

Did you know that every two seconds in America someone needs a blood transfusion - cancer patients, accident victims, premature infants, people with chronic diseases? Blood donation means so much to individuals struggling to survive their own personal crisis, and it's something you can do to make a difference. Giving blood doesn't take much time, and each donation has the power to save three lives.

Someone in Montana needs blood every 27 minutes, and the American Red Cross helps meet the needs of those individuals. Blood donated in Montana is used to meet local needs first. Remember, together, we can save a life.

To donate, donors must weigh at least 110 pounds, be at least 17 years of age, be in general good health, and must not have donated blood in the last 56 days. Identification is required of all blood donors. Donors should remember to eat complete meals and drink plenty of water before donating blood.

Montana Naturalist Class

Develop the skills and tools of a naturalist, explore local natural areas, learn the natural history of Montana plants and animals from local experts. This class is open to the community and all students and will meet Monday evenings at the University of Montana from 5 to 8 p.m. beginning January 21. It includes two Saturday field trips in April. Cost of $295 includes all materials and field transportation. You must register with MNHC to confirm your spot. Space is limited. Three credits are available through Continuing Education for $135, to be paid to this University department separately. A $50 non-refundable deposit to MNHC is required to hold your spot in this course. OPI credit is also available through MNHC. Montana Naturalist certification is available.

MSU prospective student program

Montana State University will open its campus, classrooms and activities to potential students during MSU Friday, the university's campus visitation program, set for Friday, Jan. 25.

Among the many MSU Friday activities are campus tours, sample classes taught by some of MSU's best professors, meetings with academic departments and a display of organizations and special services. There will also be presentations about special programs, scholarships and financing a college education. Panels for parents are also scheduled.

Cost for the one-day event is $15 per person, which includes lunch and activities. Students and family members attending the program will have the opportunity to ski at a discounted rate on Saturday, Jan. 26, and/or Sunday, Jan. 27, at Bridger Bowl, Big Sky and Moonlight Basin ski areas.

Students wishing to spend a night on campus with a current student, sample food and experience campus life after hours, may contact the Residence Life Office at (406) 994-2661 to find out more about its Host Program. The cost of the program is $50 per night.

For more information about MSU Friday, contact the MSU Office of Admissions at (1-888) MSU-CATS, or (406) 994-2452.

Library Book Club organizing

There will be organizational meeting for the creation of a book discussion group to meet the fourth Thursday of each month. Bring your ideas for books, topics, genres. This Brown Bag Book Discussion Group will meet Friday, January 25 from 12 to 1 p.m. in the west meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Everyone is welcome. For more information contact Nansu Roddy, 363-1670.

Zoning workshop

On Saturday, January 26, representatives from Clarion Associates and PPRI, zoning consultants for Ravalli County, will be conducting a countywide zoning workshop at the First Interstate Center of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. The consultants will present their diagnosis of the current draft zoning regulations, unveil the draft GIS land suitability analysis, and explain the values mapping process and guidelines. The workshop is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. and last until 2 p.m. Participants can either bring a brown bag lunch or purchase a pulled-pork sandwich meal from Grumpy’s BBQ, who will be on-site. The workshop is free and is open to the general public. RSVP to the Planning Department at 375-6530 if you are planning on attending the workshop and whether you intend to purchase a lunch.

Bitterroot Food Co-op Social

You are cordially invited to attend a dinner and dance on Saturday, January 26, at the Bedford Building (223 S. 2nd St) in Hamilton. This event is for everyone interested in learning about, celebrating and/or joining the Bitterroot Food Co-op. A local food dinner, prepared by Riversong Catering and serenaded by the Crested Hens, will begin at 6 p.m. This will be followed by a short presentation and discussion about the Food Co-op. At 8 p.m., Blue Melon will provide dance music until the wee hours. Come and meet your fellow Co-op owner/members and bring your friends who might be interested in joining. Remember: a co-op is your business. Admission is $5 per adult, $2 for children under 12. There will be a no-host local beer and wine bar. For more information call Jill Davies at 642-3601.

Canine Cuisine Class

Concerned about your commercial pet food and snacks? Attend a fun and educational morning class on preparing wholesome, holistic pet food for your furry best friends. The teachers are experienced canine/feline chefs, Mary Wulff and Jeanie Notti-Fullerton. The cost is $15 per person and includes recipes, handouts, snacks and laughs on Saturday, January 26, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Animal Essentials, 1369 Hwy 93 N, two miles north of Woodside. To reserve your seat call 370-0699 or 369-0025.

Bitterroot Stock Growers banquet

The Bitterroot Stockgrowers will hold their annual meeting and dinner on January 26, at St. Mary's Family Center in Stevensville. The doors will open at 5 p.m. for socializing and the prime rib dinner will be catered by the Knights of Columbus at 6 p.m.

As in the past, three special 30-minute seminars will be offered free of charge starting at 12:30 p.m. In addition there will be a "Mini" Farm Fair from noon to 4 p.m. Local business owners associated with the livestock industry are invited, as valued partners, to participate in this event.

This year's keynote speakers for the afternoon seminars will be John Paterson, MSU Beef Specialist discussing cattle marketing. Tim Tackes, Mountain West Coop and Mike Pflieger of Lakeland Feed and Supply, both Certified Crop Advisors, will address soils and fertilizers with ideas on supplies, prices, soil testing, recommendations and farm or ranch sustainability concepts. The final presentation will be an overview of the countywide zoning effort emphasizing farms and ranches featuring Dave Schultz of the Hamilton Community Planning Committee and a co-author of the Bitter Root Valley Agriculture Study.

This year, table sponsorships are being sold in an effort to make the event more affordable for the membership and prospective new members to enjoy an evening sharing in the fellowship, entertainment and fun.

There will be lots of door prizes, many silent auction items, and a raffle for a 42" JVC HDTV. Tickets may be purchased at the dinner or at one of the local feed stores.

The Stockgrowers are planning to announce the first recipient of their recognition for "Lifetime Commitment to the Livestock Industry" in the Bitterroot Valley.

For more information on a sponsorship or to buy dinner tickets, contact the Bitter Root Stockgrowers Association Secretary-Treasurer at 777-0329. You may also send a check to the Treasurer in the amount of $25.00 per person for each dinner ticket, to: BSA Secretary/Treasurer, 1356 Bolin Ranch Road, Stevensville MT 59870.

Homeopathy presentation

"Introduction to Homeopathy for You and Your Family" will be presented Saturday, January 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the offices of Classical Homeopathic Counseling, 715 Main Street, Suite E in Stevensville.

The class will include a basic introduction to homeopathy, how to treat common illnesses, how to use first aid remedies, homeopathic vaccines, and more. A useful notebook of information is included with the class. Homeopathy provides the safest, most effective alternative to drugs and chemical treatments.

The class will be taught by Ellen Fowler Bench, homeopathic practitioner since 1993. The cost is $50. For more information or to sign up for the class, call 777-5875.

Pancake breakfast

Normanden Lodge Sons of Norway is sponsoring a Scandinavian Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, January 27 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Sons of Norway Nordic Pines, 5795 Hwy. 93, north of Lolo. Cost is $6. Everyone is welcome and the venue is wheelchair accessible.

Water quality panel discussion

The Bitter Root Water Forum and the Ravalli County Environmental Health Board are sponsoring a panel discussion on water quality data in the Bitterroot watershed on Tuesday, January 29 at 7 p.m. in the Victor High School multi-purpose room on 4th Street in Victor. Panelists will include Banning Starr, Senior Planner with the MT Department of Environmental Quality; Doug Nation, volunteer water sampler in the Bitterroot watershed over the past six years; Theresa Blazicevich, former Ravalli County Environmental Health Dept. Director; and Will McDowell, private water quality consultant to Tri-State Water Quality Council.

The purpose of the panel is to identify existing water quality data for the Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners, Ravalli County Board of Health, and Ravalli County Environmental Health Dept. and understand how the data may be used regarding standards for on site systems, such as possible systems upgrades to involve higher treatment levels, greater on-site system operation and maintenance requirements, and greater separation from groundwater and surface water. Banning Starr will be presenting information on the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) process currently underway in the Bitterroot watershed.

The BRWF is a non-profit community driven watershed group established to ensure clean, abundant surface and ground water in the Bitterroot watershed. For more information contact the Water Forum at 375-2272 or email brwaterforum@bitterroot.net.

Winter Special OIympics

The Winter Special Olympics will be held Tuesday, January 29 and Wednesday, January 30 at Lost Trail/Powder Mountain Ski Resort. Volunteers are needed. No winter sports skills are required. If you are interested, call New Horizons Physical Therapy at 363-2570.

UM lecture

Alexander Hamilton, one of the country’s more dynamic Founding Fathers, had a profound impact on early policies that shaped the American West.

Michael Allen, a history professor at the University of Washington Tacoma, will present a lecture titled “Alexander Hamilton and the West” at the University of Montana on Thursday, Jan. 31. The 7:30 p.m. event, which is free and open to the public, will be in the North Underground Lecture Hall.

The lecture is the Sixth Annual Hammond Lecture in Western/Environmental History. It is sponsored by the history department’s Hammond Endowment in conjunction with a traveling exhibit at the Missoula Public Library titled “Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made Modern America.”

Hamilton’s career, Allen said, provides a lens through which we can view emerging political party debates on such western issues as land sales, territorial government, Indian policy and opposition to territorial slavery.

Allen served as a Marine in Vietnam and earned his master’s degree at UM. His books include “Western Rivermen, 1763-1861,” “A Patriot’s History of the United States,” “Congress and the West, 1783-1787,” “Frontiers of Western History” and “Rodeo Cowboys in the North American Imagination.”

Global Warming Video Showing

A free community educational event on global warming will be held on Thursday, January 31 at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Library. The Five Planets Video, made in Missoula, and relevant for Montana, will be shown. What are the effects of global warming on Montana's climate? What is the science behind climate change? What will the future bring to our state? Is the forecast gloom and doom, or are there bright spots on the horizon? What can Montanans do? "Five Planets: Montanans at the Crossroads of Global Warming," entirely locally produced, explores the answers to these important questions. Experts, leaders and individuals from around the state, including Dr. Steven Running, Nobel laureate, look at the issues from many different perspectives: transportation, construction, agriculture, forestry, government, wilderness, local solutions. There will be a discussion after the one hour film.

This event is in conjunction with the national campaign, "Focus the Nation," which is organizing the largest "teach-in" in U.S. history. It all starts on Wednesday, January 30 with a national webcast (see http://www.focusthenation.org/. Then, on January 31, more than 1100 schools and institutions will be hosting educational forums on climate change. High school students are encouraged to attend.

For more information call or email Jill Davies, Director of Sustainable Living Systems, at 642-3601, jill@sustainablelivingsystems.org.

UM short course on art appreciation

A lively journey into the world of visual arts will be offered through a three-session course at the University of Montana in February.

The noncredit course – “Very Visual: Art Appreciation and Visual Literacy” – is open to the public and designed for adults. No prior background in the arts is required, and students do not need to be enrolled at UM to attend.

Local art historian Ted Hughes will teach the course, which is intended both for personal enrichment and to build on the talents and knowledge of current and potential docents at the Montana Museum of Art & Culture and the Missoula Art Museum.

Classes will meet from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays, February 5, 12 and 19, in University Center Room 326. The course costs $26, which includes registration and art supplies, for those who register by Thursday, Jan. 31, and $35 after that date.

Hughes, who holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a master’s in art history, will teach students the formal elements and principles of design along with the various means of making art. Students will view a wide variety of art from all eras and become conversant with its role in society.

“The philosophies that underpin all art are what uplift the soul and inspire,” Hughes said, “and artists’ works rise above society’s conflicts, demonstrating to the world humanity’s real potential.”

The course is sponsored by MMAC, MAM and the Art Associates of Missoula.

To register or for more information, call MMAC at 243-2019 or e-mail museum@umontana.edu.

Hwy. 93 Citizen Advisory Committee

The Citizen Advisory Committee for Hwy. 93 will meet Tuesday, February 12, at 7 p.m. in the multipurpose room of the Victor High School, 425 4th Avenue in Victor. MDT rescheduled November’s meeting to the new time in order to have more information about further Hwy. 93 South project splits and the effects of revised budgets on the project limits and probable schedule for letting of construction contracts. These will be discussed further at the upcoming meeting.

Livestock producer workshops

Montana State University Extension economists will offer free workshops in Ronan, Browning, and Dillon on cost control and risk planning for livestock producers.

Duane Griffith, MSU economist organizing the February program, said it will help livestock and forage producers develop personalized cost control plans, with a special emphasis on surviving in an environment with increasing energy and feed costs. It will touch on energy related issues affecting productions costs, feed resources, risk management tools, and financial management strategies.

In Ronan, the program will be held Feb. 14 at the Lake County Community Center. People interested in participating should contact Extension Agent Jack Stivers at (406) 676-4272.

In Browning, the program will be Feb. 15 at the Blackfeet Housing Conference Room. For more information on that program, contact Extension Agent Verna Billedeaux at (406) 338-2650.

In Dillon, the program will be held Feb. 16 at the 4-H Building on the fairgrounds. For more information, contact Extension Agent J.P. Tanner at (406) 683-3785.

Registration for each program will begin at 9 a.m. and the workshop will be from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be provided, and there is no registration fee.

The program is sponsored by MSU, North Dakota State University, the USDA Risk Management Agency and the National Crop Insurance Services. Instructors will include Harlan Hughes, a professor emeritus and livestock economist, Cole R. Gustafson of NDSU, Griffith, and Laurence M. Crane of the National Crop Insurance Services.

American Legion Valentine's dinner

American Legion Post 94 will host its annual Valentine Prime Rib Dinner and Auction on Saturday, February 16 at St. Mary's Family Center in Stevensville. Tickets are $25 which include two free drink tickets. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. Join in for a great meal, lots of raffle and door prizes, and a silent and live auction. Proceeds are used for youth and special programs including support for our troops and veterans in need. The public is welcome. For information or reservations call Harry Potton, 777-5398, or Jerry Esmay, 777-5517.

Cross-Country Ski Club Extravaganza

For the past 14 years, the gourmet cooks and pastry chefs of the Bitterroot Cross-Country Ski Club have prepared an epicurean extravaganza atop the Continental Divide for four lucky people. The early Extravaganzas were prepared at the May Creek Cabin on the Beaverhead National Forest. Dutch oven masterpieces, with appetizers, wine, and desserts were the initial fare. The May Creek Cabin was rebuilt by volunteers from the Cross-Country Ski Club and is now a Forest Service rental cabin.

The Extravaganza has been held at the beautiful Gordon Reese Cabin for the last seven years. This Cabin is located on the Continental Divide within the Chief Joseph Cross-Country Ski Area near Chief Joseph Pass. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit volunteer trail grooming expenses. The trails are free and open to the public.

The dinner and night at the cabin for four will be Saturday, February 23, 2008. Tickets will be on sale until February 1, 2008, the drawing will be on Feb. 1, 2008. One does not need to be present to win.

Raffle tickets ($1.00 apiece or 6 for $5.00) for this extraordinary dining and skiing experience are available at Bitterroot Cross-Country Ski Club meetings, Chapter One Bookstore, Gas & Grub, Slope & Spoke, and Valley Bike & Ski in Hamilton, and Caffe Firenze in Florence. For mail order tickets or more information contact Linda Stoudt, 777-5958 or Earl Philips, 961-0101, philips@montana.com.

Clearwater Farm science fair

Calling all junior scientists! Clearwater Farm is hosting its first Science Fair for kids ages 5-10 on Saturday, February 23 at 9 a.m. at St. Mary's Family Center in Stevensville. A $10.00 entry fee is required. Three categories of projects for two age groups will be judged by community members and teachers. Entry forms are at Stevensville business locations or call Sandy Gates at 370-0808 for entry form and information.

Builder's Home Expo

The Bitterroot Building Industry Association will present the 6th annual Builder's Home Expo on Saturday, February 23 at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton. Eighty-five vendor spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 375-9411 to become a part of this one-stop-shopping event for new construction, remodeling projects, do-it-yourself inspiration or even refinance or home improvement loans. Building industry professionals will be on hand. Call the BBIA at 375-9411 for more information.

Community Systems Grantwriting Workshop

For the thirtieth time in Montana, the comprehensive grantwriting training program, "Get that Grant: Grantwriting from Conception to Completion," will be held in Bozeman April 21-24. This outstanding, internationally acclaimed workshop is presented by Community Systems of Bozeman. Conducted by Dr. Barbara C. Bader and Steven Carr, this workshop is sponsored by the Women’s Center at Montana State University.

This workshop addresses all aspects of successful grantseeking, including developing and assessing proposal ideas, generating support for grant applications, designing and writing a complete grant proposal, editing and submitting proposals, generating support for grant applications, designing and writing a complete grant proposal, editing and submitting proposals, following up with funders and surviving the proposal review process. Special attention is devoted to writing the technical components of grant proposals such as the statement of need, goals and objectives, project methods, project evaluation, project timetable, and proposal budget.

The workshop identifies sources of government, foundation, corporate and other grant support and assesses trends in the funding environment as well as teaching how to conduct a productive funding search using an extensive library of grant references provided at the workshop and shows how to conduct a formal funding search and query high-priority funders. It reviews criteria that funders use in evaluating proposals and suggests strategies for avoiding common pitfalls in grantseeking. Techniques for developing a grants infrastructure and planning and organizing the grantseeking effort are stressed.

Each participant receives a detailed 482+ page training/resource manual that includes a proposal writing guide and essential background resources for grantseekers. This is a hard-working, hands-on, how-to-do-it workshop, and each workshop participant develops a comprehensive grant proposal during the session. Participants receive extensive individual consultation during the workshop as well as follow-up critique of their grant proposals.

For further information on the grantwriting program, or to register for the workshop, contact the MSU Women’s Center at (406) 994-3836 or email Betsy Danforth at danforth@montana.edu. Registration deadline is March 28, 2008.

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