The Golden Age group meets every Friday from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at 727 S. 5th in Hamilton. If you are a senior citizen and are bored, looking for fun or just want something new to experience, attend and enjoy good food, live music, dancing and fellowship. Cost is $5. Snacks are potluck. Exercise classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m. Blood pressure is checked every first Wednesday of the month. Also on the first Wednesday of every month a potluck is held at 12:30 p.m. followed by the business meeting. Card parties are held on the second Wednesday at 7 p.m. On the last Wednesday of the month a birthday party is held at 2 p.m.

Al-Anon

Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the

North Valley Public Library. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive

drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call

721-5818.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.

VFW meetings

VFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Hamilton.

Florence American Legion

The Florence American Legion Post 134 meets the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Florence Fire Hall. For further information contact Post Commander 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.

American Legion Auxiliary

Fort Owen Post 94, Stevensville, American Legion Auxiliary meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Call 777-4335 for location.

Corvallis American Legion

The Corvallis American Legion Post 91 meets the third Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Corvallis High School library. For further information contact Post Commander Alex Ivanoff at 961-8997 or Post Adjutant Roy Meyer, 961-4272.

Lilies of the Valley singing group

The Lilies of the Valley Ladies Ensemble welcomes you to share your time, talent, wit and humor in the joy of singing together, short programs to share with others. No auditions to participate, only your love of the language of music and the desire to sing it in melody and harmony. Come and relax Thursday evenings, 7 to 9 p.m., at 211 N. 6th St., Hamilton. For more information call Thelma, 363- 1598.

WIC clinics

A WIC clinic is offered in Hamilton Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at 205 Bedford St, Suite P, District Courthouse building in Hamilton.

The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College St. in Stevensville. The Victor clinic is open the second Monday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every other month, the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. For more information call 375-6685.

Sapphire Quilt Club

The Sapphire Quilt Club meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission Street. Teaching of short cuts and easy techniques begin at 6:30 p.m. Join this fun group of people to learn about quilting. For information, contact Linda Powell at 777-1070.

Grief Support Groups

When you grieve the death of a loved one, you sometimes hide it so others think you’re over your sorrow and loss. Marcus Daly Hospice offers an opportunity to share grieving experiences and grow from them.

For the men in our community dealing with the death of a loved one, Marcus Daly Hospice offers a men’s breakfast support group. The Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast meets at 9 a.m. every second and fourth Friday of the month in the Marcus Daly Hospice dining room. Breakfast is provided for a $3 donation per person. Call 375-4752 to reserve your spot.

For anyone in our community dealing with the loss of a loved one, Tuesday afternoons from 2-3:30 p.m. a bereavement support group meets in the Marcus Daly Hospice Center living room. All are welcome.

For more information, call Cathy Palmer, LCPC, Bereavement Coordinator, at 363-6503.

Spanish conversation group

Habla Espanol? Do you travel? Do you work with Latinos? Do you just want to keep your mind sharp? If you are a beginner or just a bit rusty, join the Stevi Spanish Conversation Group at the North Valley Public Library Wednesdays from 6 to 7 pm to brush up on your Spanish language skills. This is not a class to learn to speak Spanish. It will be an informal, weekly gathering to practice speaking the Spanish language. The focus will be role playing for situations experienced during travel and everyday life. For more information, call the library at 777-5061.

Soroptimists

Soroptimist International of Hamilton meets the first, second and third Thursdays of each month at noon at BJ’s Restaurant. Soroptimist is a worldwide organization for women in management and professions working through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women. All interested business women are encouraged to attend.

Rotary Club

The Hamilton Rotary Club meets Mondays, 12 noon at BJ's Restaurant, 900 N. First Street, Hamilton. For information about Rotary, call 363-2960.

PFLAG Chapter

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) meets every third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, in the basement, 600 S. 3rd St., Hamilton in order to offer support to families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the local community. Chapter representatives Dr. Michael Moran and Terry Moran list one of PFLAG’s primary objectives as maintaining families in loving relationships and to keep families together.

For more information contact Terry Moran, 363-7656.

Center for Spiritual Living

The Center for Spiritual Living, Bitterroot Valley meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at the South Valley Child & Family Center, 515 Madison St. in Hamilton. Learn and share while celebrating our individual and collective spiritual growth. Services are based on Ernest Holmes’ Science of Mind philosophy and support positive global transformation through personal spiritual practice (visit the website: UnitedCentersforSpiritualLiving.org/). Transportation to the Sunday gatherings can be arranged from several communities in the Bitterroot Valley. For more information, contact Barb at 375-9996 or Dave at 381-2355; or email: HYPERLINK "mailto:BitterrootCSL@gmail.com/" BitterrootCSL@gmail.com/.

Legion bingo

B-I-N-G-O! Join American Legion Fort Owen Post 94, in Stevensville, for free popcorn and an entertaining evening of bingo. The action starts at 7 p.m. at the Senior Center in Stevensville on the first and third Thursdays of the month. All prizes are cash and proceeds go to support American Legion youth activities.

Valley Veterans Services

Ever wonder what VA benefits you’re entitled too? Valley Veterans Service Center provides free assistance to veterans and their dependents in filing claims with the VA. Valley Veterans Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by for a visit or call for an appointment at 363-9838. The center is located at 299 Fairgrounds Road, Suite 4 in Hamilton.

Veteran-to-Veteran (V2V) meetings

The V2V outreach group meets every Friday morning at 8 a.m. in the backroom at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. These informal meetings are for all veterans. Many veterans have both unresolved and resolved issues from their experiences in the military that impact their lives. At the meetings participants can discuss whatever they want and the outreach group gives veterans an opportunity to get together to share information and talk about issues. For further information contact Dan Mayer, 360-5435, from the Bitterroot Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Vietnam Veterans of America

The Bitterroot Chapter #938 of the Vietnam Veterans of America meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 319 N. 3rd. Vietnam era veterans often need assistance with problems and issues and many have similar stories. The Bitterroot Chapter VVA is your organization to provide the opportunity to obtain and share information, to organize grass root activities, lend a helping hand, and offer assistance to all veterans in dealing with the Veterans Administration. Also, through the National VVA organization, the local chapter supplies input to state and federal government legislators on issues important to veterans. For more information contact Bill Decker at 369-2252.

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 first and third 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 Shauna Pernsteiner at 777-5189.

Waldorf Inspired Parent-Child

Waldorf Inspired Parent-Child meets Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for creative play, songs, stories, crafts, cooking, baking and nature walks. All families, expectant parents, and children birth to 6 years are welcome. For more information and location contact Kim at 369-0213. This Early Childhood Education Program as well as seasonal workshops and festivals for the community are sponsored by The Bitterroot School. Visit www.thebitterrootschool.com and www.whywaldorfworks.com to find out more about this and other programs.

Veterans affairs clinics

Andrea Montee, Service Officer for the Montana Veterans Affairs Division in Missoula, will be available to veterans and their dependents that have questions or need to file a claim with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs on the second Tuesday of every month from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Stevensville Town Council Chambers and from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Job Service office. She will also be at the Job Service office every fourth Wednesday of the month from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. For more information call 542-2501.

Trap Club

The Hamilton Trap Club is open every Wednesday and Sunday from 12 noon until dusk unless people get done shooting trap before dusk. For more information contact Dick or Cheryl Wallis at 546-3856. The Trap Club is located at the Hamilton Airport.

Bitterroot Toastmasters

Bitterroot Toastmasters Club meets Wednesdays from 12 to 1 p.m. at Perkins Restaurant in Hamilton with optional no host lunch before or after. Meetings are designed to build confidence and skills in communication and leadership. Guests are welcome.

Toddler story time

It’s never too early to introduce your baby or toddler to the wonderful world of books and reading. Together you will discover the joy of songs, finger plays, simple books and bouncing rhymes. The toddler story time for babies through age 2 meets every Friday at 10:30 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Toddler story time lasts approximately 45 minutes. For more information, call 363-1670.

Safety seat fitting station

Mildenberger Motors will be teaching families how to safely transport their children on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The dealership will serve as the site of a monthly child safety seat checkup event to help ensure that children are using car seats, booster seats and seat belts the right way on every ride. At these events, nationally certified child passenger safety technicians will teach families how to transport children correctly. The events are open to the public. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. To make an appointment call Lonie Hutchison at 546-9640 or 258-3880.

American Sign Language Group

An American Sign Language Bible discussion group meets Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 8 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall, 1115 S. Reserve St., Missoula. Discussion topic is “Keep Yourselves in God’s Love.” For more information contact Tom Gacek, 777-0747, HYPERLINK "mailto:aslgal@rocketmail.com" aslgal@rocketmail.com.

Elks dinner

The Elks Club at 102 State Street in Hamilton serves dinner to the public every Wednesday at 6 p.m. The $8 complete meal includes dessert and coffee. Proceeds go towards the youth scholarship fund. For more information call 363-3031.

Sabre Soccer meetings

Stevensville Sabre Soccer meetings are held the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Main Street Association building in Stevensville. The general public and all interested parties are welcome to attend. For more information contact Brooke Flynn at 880-2903.

Bitterroot Connections

Bitterroot Connections referral group (a sub-network of the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network) meets monthly for lunch from noon to 1 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Hamilton Perkins Restaurant. Looking to grow your business? Come and meet a group of supportive women who get to know each other through member spotlight presentations, educational topics, and the referral and promotion of each other's businesses. Call Sue Gust at 360-0820 or e-mail suegust@kikapaprika.com for more information or visit www.discovermbn.com for additional opportunities.

Empowerment group

The Bitterroot Empowerment group (a sub-network of the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network) meets the first Thursday of every month at Perkins Restaurant in Hamilton from noon to 1 p.m. Participate in an experience that can help you reach your goals, both personal and business related. Programs have a wide range of interest varying from month to month but the feeling of support and camaraderie will remain constant. Call Jane Foster at 406-531-9556 or 777-2280 or email Jane@fosterandfosterfs.com for more information or visit www.discovermbn.com for additional opportunities.

Fiber Arts Guild

Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild meets the last Saturday of every month. If you are a wool spinner or work with fibers, contact Shelley at 777-5205 or Marty at 777-2421 for location or information.

PEP Sessions

Are you interested in exploring career options suited to you? Attend a PEP Session at the Bitterroot College Program (BCP). PEP stands for Personal Employment Plan and is designed to assist people with career exploration, education planning, and job search preparation. PEP Sessions take place on Thursdays, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Bitterroot College Program, located at the Ravalli Entrepreneurship Center, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. There is no appointment or registration necessary. For more information, contact The Bitterroot College Program at 375-0100 or Literacy Bitterroot at 363-2900. Or, visit the Bitterroot College Program website at http://www.umt.edu/bcp.

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.

Community dinners

The kitchen’s open and the food is great! South Valley Child and Family Center’s Suppertime program is open for business and the community is invited for free family-style meals Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. at 515 Madison in Hamilton. These wonderful meals are for families, individuals and those in need of a good meal and community connections. If you need further info, would like to donate, volunteer or would like to be a part of the Culinary Program for middle or high school students, call 363-3450.

Women Helping Women

Want to be a healthily you? Looking for a support group to help you lose unwanted pounds? Women Helping Women meets Tuesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. at the Conner Wesleyan Church, 4674 Hwy 93, seven miles south of Darby. For more information call 821-3570.

Ladies Bible Study

A Ladies Bible Study is held Thursday mornings at 9:30 a.m. at the Conner Wesleyan Church, 4674 Hwy 93, seven miles south of Darby. Current study is on Beth Moore’s “Stepping Up, A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent.” For more information call 821-3570.

Canyon View MOPS

MOPS International (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging and developing mothers to reach their full potential. The Canyon View MOPS group meets at Canyon View Church off Skalkaho on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Jen at 375-9183.

Men’s Bereavement Breakfast

Marcus Daly Hospice sponsors a monthly Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast on the second and fourth Friday of each month at 9 a.m. in the Marcus Daly Hospice Dining Room. This is a special opportunity for men coping with the loss of a spouse or loved one to gather and share their journey of healing. Informal discussions are led by a trained Bereavement Facilitator and cover topics such as, embracing our grief, personal growth, forming new relationships, and more. Interested parties can contact Cathy Palmer, MFT, Marcus Daly Hospice Bereavement Coordinator at 363-6503. A donation of $3.00 for breakfast is greatly appreciated.

Mindful Recovery support group

A peer-directed support group meets Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. at the Bison Internet Café, 164 S. 3rd in Hamilton. People in recovery from mental illness and/or substance abuse or addiction can find support and mentor help from group participants. All interested persons are invited to attend. The Café is closed during meeting times. For more information, leave a message at 363-2222.

Aquatic exercise program

Join the new Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center in Hamilton. The class will allow you to exercise without putting excess strain on your joints and muscles. The gentle activities in warm water, with guidance from Wendy, the trained instructor, will help you gain strength and flexibility. The first class is free. Call 375-8200 for more information or go to the website at bitterrootaquaticcenter.com

Darby food collection

The Darby Bread Box is collecting spaghetti sauce, Rice-a-roni and tomato sauce for the month March. The food bank is also in need of processed meat and wild game of any kind to give to clients that are in need of food. If anyone can help, call or leave a message at 821-2081.

Darby Library story time

Reading to young children helps develop good reading skills while igniting their imaginations. The Darby Community Public Library offers two Preschool Story Times every Monday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. All children from age one to five are welcome to come with a caregiver for interactive stories, games, songs, and fun activities that focus on letter and number recognition, and the joy of reading.

Pee Wee Soccer Program

Boys and girls aged 2.5-5 are invited to register for the 3rd annual

Spring 2011 Pee Wee Soccer Program. This six-week Saturday morning program runs April 9-May 14. Early registration is encouraged.

Registration forms are available at Evergreen Kids Corner Preschool, 201 S 8th Street in Hamilton, or by visiting HYPERLINK "http://www.evergreenkidscorner.org" www.evergreenkidscorner.org.

Artists’ workshop

The Stevensville Art and Sculpture Society is offering a series of workshops. For more information contact River’s Mist at 777-0520 or check out the website at HYPERLINK "http://www.sassart.org" www.sassart.org. Any artists interested in participating can contact Amy Knight at 777-3542.

Acoustic music jam sessions

A weekly jam session is held every Sunday at the Rocky Mountain Grange Hall south of Hamilton. This is an acoustic jam, and beginners through advanced musicians are invited to attend. If you play guitar, mandolin, harmonica, fiddle, bass, banjo, dobro, or similar acoustic instrument, come join in the fun every Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. You don’t have to be a musician to attend the jam. Folks who just want to listen are encouraged to come – it’s always more fun with an audience. There is no charge for admission. Food and soft drinks will be available at the concert. The Grange Hall is located at 1436 S. 1st Street (Hwy 93), just south of the Valley Pet Clinic. For more information call Clem at 961-4949.

Book discussions

The Bitterroot Public Library offers a “Brown Bag It” Book discussion group on the last Thursday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. in the West Meeting Room. Newcomers are welcome.

April 28 – “Deep Creek” by Dana Hand

May 26 – “Homer and Langley: A Novel” by E.L. Doctorow,

June 30 – “Half Broke Horses: A True-Life Novel” by Jeannette Walls

July 28 – “Cutting for Stone: A Novel” by Abraham Verghesa

August 25 – “Daughter of Fortune” by Isabel Allende

September 30 – “The Innocent Man” by John Grisham

October 27 – “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain

November 17 – “Siddhartha” by Herman Hess

December – “A Hope in the Unseen” by Ron Suskind

Silver Spurs raffle

Silver Spurs 4-H Club teen group is raffling off half a hog including smoked ham and bacon. Tickets are $2.00 each. Winner will be drawn and notified on May 1. Contact Ginger Desrosier at 777-2215 for more information.

Wednesday, March 30

State Park camping reservations program

Montana State Parks is excited to announce the new campsite reservation program that will come on-line Wednesday, March 30 at 8 a.m. The reservation program will help families take some of the stress out of planning their vacations, because they will know their campsite will be there when they arrive.

Visitors will be able to reserve a campsite in 20 state parks across the state, or in select parks; a cabin, tipi or yurt. Sites are reservable from May 27 to September 5. A processing fee of $10.00 will be charged for each reservation. Along with the reservation program, Montana State Parks will continue to provide some ‘first come, first served’ campsites at all campgrounds as well. Reservations can be made by calling: 855-922-6768 toll free between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends; or go to campmt.com on the web. To learn more about state park accommodations and directions to all 54 parks, visit fwp.mt.gov or call the Montana State Parks office in Helena at 406-444-3750.

Preschool story time

Preschoolers are invited to meet in the children’s area of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesday, March 30 to enjoy “1, 2, 3, Count with me!” 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.

‘Montana Tales’ course

Montana has stories galore: cows and cowboys, Indian tribes inhabiting the mountains and plains for centuries, politicos good and bad, writers and poets, railroad builders and mining magnates, individuals famous and infamous; all have contributed to making the “Last Best Place” our special homeland.

Lifelong learners in the Bitterroot Valley can hear these stories and more about Montana’s colorful history through the course “In Our Backyard: My Montana Tales.” Taught by Hal Stearns, it will run from 10 to 11:30 a.m. every Wednesday from March 30 to April 20 at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center, located at 327 Fairgrounds Road.

Course registration costs $45 before March 25 and $50 afterward, and it is open to learners of all ages. It’s co-sponsored by the School of Extended and Lifelong Learning and the Bitterroot College Program of UM.

Stearns, a Harlowton native with generations of ranchers, homesteaders and newsmen in his family, earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and master’s and doctorate degrees from UM. He taught for 34 years, with stints in Germany, at Missoula’s Sentinel High School and UM. He received Montana Teacher of the Year and Outstanding U.S. History Teacher honors.

For more information or to register, call Dannette Fadness, program coordinator for the School of Extended and Lifelong Learning, at 243-2905 or e-mail dannette.fadness@umontana.edu.

Thursday, March 31

Men’s cancer support group

The Men's Cancer Support Group meets on the last Thursday of the month at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. It is free and open to all men in any stage of cancer, from testing, to treatment, to follow up. The next meeting is Thursday, March 31, from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m., at the Montana Cancer Center (St. Patrick Hospital, Broadway Building, 2nd floor). For more information, or to RSVP, contact facilitator Greg Shanks by phone (214-9697) or email (gshanks@mtneuro.com).

Stevi school facility committee

The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, March 31 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.

Young musicians’ open mic night

Young Musicians’ Open Mic Night will be held Thursday, March 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library. Poets, instrumentalists, comedians, singers, and ventriloquists are invited to perform at the meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Cookies, brownies and other goodies will be for sale, and any proceeds will be used to purchase new teen books. So come and listen to some fun, undiscovered acts and enjoy a treat. This event is sponsored by the Library’s Teen Advisory Board. You can sign up to perform at the library.

HHS Bands Festival Concert

The Hamilton High School Bands will present their annual Festival Concert this Thursday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. in the HHS PAC. The selections will feature music from colonial America, Ireland, native American culture, and highlights from the Broadway musical, “The Music Man.” The concert is open to the public free of charge. For more information, call Shawn Thacker at 375-6060, ext. 6248.

Friday, April 1

North Valley Pachyderm Club

The North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, April 1 at noon at The Frontier Café, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Will Deschamps, State Chairman of the Montana Republican Party, will be the speaker. The North Valley Pachyderm Club meets the first and third Friday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Frontier Cafe. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.

Toastmasters Youth Leadership Series

The Bitterroot Toastmasters is offering an eight-week series for youth to develop their public speaking skills while honing their leadership skills. The first class starts on April 5 and runs every Tuesday through May 24 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The $10 fee includes the participant manual and snacks. The classes will be held at the MSU Extension Office. Sign up by Friday, April 1 through the MSU Extension office at 375-6611 or 215 S. 4th Street, Ste G, Hamilton.

Knights of Columbus Fish Fry

During the Lenten period the Knights of Columbus is presenting a weekly Friday Night Fish Fry from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Francis’ Pastoral Center, 411 S. 5th St. Hamilton. The meal consists of fish, fries, coleslaw, vegetables, dessert and soft beverage. The price for the meal is $8.00 per person; children under nine is free. Wine can be purchased separately. Everyone is welcome so bring a friend and enjoy the evening. For information contact Nick Hooper at 961-3930.

Stevi artist to exhibit

Montana Art and Framing, 709 Ronan, Missoula (541-7100), will feature "Changing Seasons" April 1-30 with new works and landscape paintings in oils and pastels by Elene Weege, Stevensville and Teresa Garland Warner, Missoula. A First Friday reception with refreshments April 1 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Model trains running!

Friday, April 1, is also April Fools Day and as always, the trains are running - no kidding! 5 in the afternoon to 8 p.m. in the Kohl Building, just behind Valley Drug in Stevensville. As always, it's fun and it's free. No kidding about that either!

Art exhibit

Meet featured artist Joy Peterson-Snodgrass on First Friday, April 1 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Red Willow Antiques, 213 Main Street, Stevensville.

Watercolor, gouache, and acrylic paintings focus on the moods of bold color, abstract patterns, lighting effects and exceptional shapes in Big Sky country. Works include the Mission and Bitterroot Mountains, redwing blackbirds, old buildings and churches.

After 20 years in Alaska, Peterson-Snodgrass had a life-changing experience while working at the Alaska Otter Rescue Center in 1989 rehabilitating animals after the oil spill. Because she needed a vocabulary to express her deepest feelings about mammals and birds, in 1990 she became an avid videographer of eagle, raven, bear and gull in her Alaskan backyard.

After her 15-year retrospective exhibition, “We’re All Connected,” at the Valdez Heritage Center, she moved to Stevensville in 1996. The show was her expression of events, themes and personal relationships with man, animal and nature which continues in her current works.

Her works have appeared in LA Design, Missoula Art Museum, Daly Mansion, Montana Watercolor Society exhibit, Bigfork Cultural Center, and numerous galleries in Anchorage and Fairbanks, Anchorage Museum of History and Art, Fairbanks Alaskaland Gallery, Valdez Heritage Center, Spirit Mountain Artworks, Chitna.

Stevi Lenten Fish Fries

The Knights of Columbus will hold a Lenten Friday Fish Fry on April 1, 8 and 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Family Center in Stevensville. Join your neighbors for fish, fries, slaw, vegetable, dessert and conversation on all six Fridays in Lent.

Artist reception

Bob Phinney, one of Missoula’s favorite artists, will be the Featured Artist for the month of April at River’s Mist Gallery of Fine Art in Stevensville. The show will run from April 1 through May 3 with an artist’s reception on Friday, April 1 from 6 to 9 p.m. Phinney will be displaying a range of techniques in oils, drawings and prints. Phinney was born and raised in Montana. He received his BA in Art from Montana State University in 1971. He has taught at Pratt Fine Arts Institute and the Frye Art Museum in Seattle and Montana, at the University of Montana and with Missoula Public Schools Adult Ed Program. The Budding Artist will be Kraig Ballard. The gallery is located at 317 Main Street in Stevensville. For more information call 777-0520.

Gardening presentation

Got problems in the garden? Looking for answers? Come to the North Valley Public Library on Friday, April 1 for a question and answer program with Molly Hackett called "April Fools in the Garden." Molly will take your questions and answer them from her lifetime of experience in the Bitterroot Valley. The event is free to the public; light refreshments will be served. The program will be held from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library, 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more details, call the library at 777-5061.

Acupuncture presentation

Missoula acupuncturist Karen Hayberg will present a talk on First Friday, April 1 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room of the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville. Learn about this ancient natural healing art. The talk will answer many questions you may have about how acupuncture works and the types of relief it can provide. Karen will also describe how she has been integrating some tools of modern science with acupuncture, resulting in more rapid healing in her patients. The program is free to the public. The North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more details, call the library at 777-5061.

Montana Art Therapists show

The artwork of Montana Art Therapists will be showcased at the Frame Shop and Gallery in Hamilton, at 325 W. Main, during April and May. The show opens April 1 with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Art Therapists from across the state--from Billings to Whitefish--will be represented, featuring a variety of media and styles.

The show includes stimulus drawings created by the Art Therapists. Stimulus drawings begin with a template of simple lines and are completed in any way that the artist chooses. Stimulus work in the show includes drawings, paintings, assemblage and digital art. In therapy, stimulus drawings are used as a starting point for people who are reluctant to draw, as a way to encourage creativity, and as a way to demonstrate that people respond differently to the same stimulus. People attending the show will have the opportunity to make their own drawings using materials available at the gallery.

This show is organized by the Montana Art Therapy Association, which became an official chapter of the American Art Therapy Association (ATTA) in February. Montana Art Therapists first met in 2009 to begin work to establish a state chapter. AATA maintains professional standards, approves academic programs, educates the public about Art Therapy, and supports research.

Art Therapists are mental health professionals who use the creative process of visual arts with individuals and groups to benefit their mental health and wellness. Art Therapy is used with people of all ages, in various settings: schools, mental health services, medical settings, and private practices. Art Therapists are educated in studio arts and psychology before specializing in Art Therapy in graduate school. As professionals, they are expected to continue creating their own art work, and this show brings the artistry of Montana Art Therapists to Hamilton.

Saturday, April 2

Pancake breakfast

Ravalli Early Head Start is offering a free pancake breakfast Saturday, April 2 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Westview Center Gym, 103 S. 9th Street in Hamilton. This is a thank you to Ravalli County for making Ravalli Early Head Start’s first year a great one. Bring your family and friends for a free breakfast. For more information or directions call Ravalli Early Head Start 363-7412, ext. 203.

Darby Spring Classic

The 3rd Annual Darby Spring Classic 5 on 5 Basketball Tournament will be held Saturday, April 2 at the Darby High School and Junior High gyms There will be four divisions: 5th/6th Boys, 5th/6th Girls, 7th/8th Boys, and 7th/8th Girls. If there are not enough teams. The entry fee is $120 per team, and every team is guaranteed four games. Each team will get 3 “seeding” games, and then a single elimination tourney.

Spectator admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children. There will be concessions and the proceeds from the concessions and the event will go toward the athletes from Darby. For more information, visit: http://www.darby.k12.mt.us and click on the link or email Scott Marsh at: scottmarshdarby@gmail.com or call Scott at 821-3252, ext. 1411

Registration deadline is March 30 or when the divisions are full with a maximum of 8 teams per division.

Shriners benefit

A Chair-ity Event sponsored by the Blue Horseshoes to benefit the Shriners will be held Saturday, April 2 starting at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Family Center in Stevensville. Admission is a non-perishable food item for Pantry Partners or clothing for The Clothes Closet. Live music will be performed by Los Amigos at 10 a.m, Stevi Strings at 11:30 a.m. and Blue Melon at 1 p.m. Raffles will be held for a pig (Knights of Columbus), a Chevy truck (Special Olympics) and a quilt (Sapphire Quilters). Dragon Brigade will hold a silent auction. The Chairs for Charity Auction will start at 3 p.m. and run until all are sold. Chairs decorated by individuals, families, groups or businesses will be auctioned off. Food will be available from St. Mary’s Youth Group. To donate or for more information call Kim at 360-9767.

Mansion history classes

The Daly Mansion’s History Mystery Team will be hosting History Mystery Classes Saturdays in April at the Daly Mansion, 251 Eastside Hwy in Hamilton. Annually, the Mansion offers historic and cultural classes for the general public, Mansion members and volunteers. Classes include What’s It Worth (April 2) –instructor Don Erdman – featuring facts regarding original Mansion furnishings and items and their 1941 appraisal value. Prohibition in Butte (April 9th) – instructor Dan Driscoll – information regarding speakeasies and moonshine in the wide open city of Butte. Marcus Daly In Nevada (April 16) – instructor Georgia Kay – a reader’s theatre presentation regarding the early days of Marcus Daly. The Making of Our Bitterroot Valley (April 30) – instructor Bruce Gould – presenting a synopsis of the first 80 million years of the Bitterroot Valley from the Ice Age to the first settlers. Classes begin at 10 a.m. in the Trophy Room of the Mansion. The class fee is $5.00 at the door (free to DMPT members and volunteers). For more information, contact Darlene at 363-6004, ext. 4#.

Ragtime Society

The Bitterroot Valley Ragtime Society meets on the first Saturday of each month from 4-6 p.m. at the Hamilton Pub in Victor. There is no charge for membership, all are welcome. Come on out and listen to some vintage American music from the ragtime and early jazz era! The next gathering will be on Saturday, April 2 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Hamilton Pub. For further info, call 916-759-3168.

Square dance club

Boots ‘n Calico Square Dance Club will hold a plus workshop and dance on Saturday, April 2 at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. A plus workshop will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. Following this will be a regular dance to 9:30 p.m. The dance level will be mainstream with plus tips inserted about every third dance. Round dances will be provided between tips. All visiting square and round dancers are welcome to join us. Barry Bartlette will be the caller. Come early if you like and dance with the workshop, too. Club members and the club will provide finger food treats for refreshments. For further information call Laurie Dunbar at 961-4528 or Donna Hicks at 961-0111.

Music concert

Free concerts are being held the first Saturday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange, 1436 S. 1st in Hamilton. At any one concert you may hear country music, old-time music, swing, old standards, Celtic music, etc. The time is 7 to 9 p.m. the first Saturday of each month. Everyone is welcome. For more information call Clem at 961-4949. The April 2 concert will feature Bitter Root Range at 7 p.m.; Celtic Knots at 7:30 p.m.; Turner Family Singers at 8 p.m. and Ken Watson and daughter at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 3

Center for Spiritual Living

Celebrate the Spring Season with the Center for Spiritual Living on Sunday, April 3 at 10 a.m. A special presentation and program with Dave Schultz, Religious Science Practitioner, will be presented. Live music, songs and centering meditation will be shared, followed by fellowship time with refreshments. Services are based on Ernest Holmes’ Science of Mind philosophy and support positive global transformation through personal spiritual practice (visit the website: UnitedCentersforSpiritualLiving.org/). Meet at the South Valley Child & Family Center, 515 Madison St. in Hamilton (at corner of South 6th St.). For more information, contact Barb at 375-9996 or Dave at 381-2355; or email: BitterrootCSL@gmail.com/.

Monday, April 4

Stevi school menu

April 4-8

Monday: Breakfast – Cereal, fruit, milk; Lunch – Burrito, salsa, corn, applesauce

Tuesday: Breakfast – Egg & cheese wrap, fruit, milk; Lunch – Sloppy Joe, taters, banana

Wednesday: Breakfast – Danish, fruit, milk; Lunch: Sea Wonders (fish), coleslaw, pineapple

Thursday: Breakfast – Pancakes, fruit, milk; Lunch – Chicken noodle casserole, fresh veggies, Mandarin oranges

Friday: Breakfast – Fruit bars, fruit, milk; Lunch – Breaded beef steaks, green beans, peaches.

Hamilton Rotary Club

During the month of April, the Hamilton Rotary Club meetings will be focused on the subject of "Cops and Courts." Ravalli County Sheriff, Chris Hoffman will be guest speaker at the next meeting of the Hamilton Rotary Club on Monday, April 4 at 12 noon at BJ's Restaurant, 900 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. Sheriff Hoffman brings 27 years of law enforcement experience to his present position, and will be explaining and discussing the duties and responsibilities of his office. This meeting is open to the public. For further information, call 363-2960.

Hunter education classes

Hunter education courses are scheduled for many Bitterroot Valley communities this spring. Classes are free, and a student must be at least 11 years old to receive certification. Any person born after January 1, 1985 must present a Hunter Education Certificate in order to purchase a hunting license in Montana.

The schedule is as follows:

Corvallis: Classes are Monday, April 4 through Friday, April 8 from 6-8:30 p.m. each evening. A mandatory orientation night for registered students and their parent or legal guardian is planned for Monday, March 28 from 6-6:30 p.m. Orientation and classes are held in the Corvallis Middle School cafeteria, accessible off the Eastside Highway.

Lone Rock: Classes are April 4-8 from 6-9 p.m. each evening. A parent or legal guardian must attend the beginning of the first night of class. Classes are held at Lone Rock School, 1112 Three Mile Creek Road.

Hamilton, Florence and Stevensville have already held winter classes but will hold additional classes in August or September. For a complete schedule of west-central Montana classes and for more details, visit the FWP website, fwp.mt.gov. For additional questions, or for help with online registration, call the FWP Missoula office at 542-5500.

Tuesday, April 5

St. Mary’s Mission Volunteer Recruitment

The staff with Historic St. Mary's Mission is hosting a volunteer recruitment luncheon on Tuesday, April 5 at 11 a.m. You are invited to attend and learn about the diverse volunteer opportunities at St. Mary’s Mission. The historic site and the community of Stevensville celebrate the 170th anniversary this year. Learn more on April 5th about how you can be part of the celebration all season long. Call 777-5734 for more information.

Diabetes nutrition class

Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital is adding an additional class to the Diabetes Education Series. Join April Weinberger, MD, on Tuesday, April 5 at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, conference room B/C at 5:15 p.m. for a 1.5 hour class, “Diabetes and Nutrition, Build Your Own Plate.” This class is free of charge and opened to all interested individuals. During this class you will learn more about what diabetics should eat, how to build meals, as well as get recipes and food samples representing all five food groups. No reservations are needed. For more information visit www.mdmh.org or call 363-2211.

Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot

The Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot will meet Tuesday, April 5 at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. Dinner and drinks are available beginning at 6 p.m. followed by the program at 7 p.m. This month’s program will feature a presentation by Dick Bacon on the Wild and Scenic Salmon River. Dick's talk will cover the history of the establishment of the surrounding wilderness areas and the Wild and Scenic River designation as well as the rafting and fishing opportunities. Visitors and prospective members are welcome.

Corvallis Academic Showcase

The first Corvallis Schools Academic Showcase will take place on Tuesday, April 5, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the high school gym. The Showcase is a celebration of the academic and creative achievements of Corvallis students and an opportunity for the entire community to see and learn about the work that goes on in the schools. This will be a chance to meet and talk with students and teachers and view and experience some of the many accomplishments of students from kindergarten through high school.

The Showcase will feature independent projects by K-8 students, kindergarten writing projects, and fourth grade class projects. Fifth graders will display their animal research projects and 6th graders will demonstrate video work. There will be exhibits by the high school and middle school Robotics Programs, the state champion Corvallis Middle School Science Olympiad Team, and the BRASS program, which links middle school students and scientists from Rocky Mountain Laboratories. High school, middle school, and first grade art will be on display. The high school’s unique Classroom Without Walls program will be featured. Community members will have a chance to talk with teachers about the Montana Behavior Initiative and the 21st Century After School Program.

Throughout the Showcase there will be regularly scheduled performances by choir, string instrument, and band students. High School students will perform their Living Biography creations. The high school music lab will be open for demonstrations of the unique opportunities it provides for students.

The Academic Showcase is sponsored by the Corvallis Schools and by the Corvallis Schools Foundation. The Foundation is a non-profit community/school organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing educational opportunities for Corvallis Students. According to Corvallis Schools Foundation President Ray Dunbar, “The Academic Showcase will be wonderful chance for community members to experience firsthand some of the great things that go on in our schools. Our community has so many reasons to be proud of what our students can do.”

Before the Academic Showcase, attendees are invited to a spaghetti feed from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Corvallis School Lunchroom, hosted by parents to support 8th grade promotion activities.

Wednesday, April 6

Spay/neuter clinics

Fox Hollow Animal Project is sponsoring low-cost spay/neuter clinics April 6, 13, 20, and 27. Coupons good for a $10 cat spay or neuter are available at the Bitter Root Humane Association. Call 273-6007 for information and appointments.

Breastfeeding class

A free class on breastfeeding will be held Wednesday, April 6 at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 216 College St., Stevensville. Topics covered are: getting off to a good start, breastfeeding basics, supply and demand, working and school success, and more. There will be door prizes. The event is sponsored by Ravalli County WIC. Class instructor is Mary Vermillion CLC, IBCLC, 369-0230, for questions and to reserve your space.

Stevensville Garden Club

The April program of the Stevensville Garden Club will feature Jean Atthowe on “Horticulture Therapy with Native Plants” on Wednesday, April 6 at 1 p.m. at 409 Buck St. (Baptist Church), Stevensville. Everyone is welcome. For more information call Mary at 777-4196.

Thursday, April 7

Stevi school facility committee

The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet on Thursday, April 7 at 1 p.m. in the superintendent’s office.

Friday, April 8

Yoga demo

There will be a free therapeutic aerial vinyasa (flow) yoga demo on Friday, April 8 at 6 p.m. at Yoga in the Root, 4071 Eastside Highway, Stevensville. A workshop with Troy Lucero of Seattle follows April 9 and 10. Everyone is welcome. Call 777-7011 for information.

Saturday, April 9

Horsemanship clinic

Bitterroot BCH invites the public to attend a free horsemanship clinic on Saturday, April 9, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Training will involve exercises and obstacles using demonstration stock, with an emphasis on trail riding safety. The event takes place at Natural Horse Arena, 3700 E. Carlton Creek Rd. (3 miles north of Florence). For more information, contact Jack or Lisa Emory at 961-1363 or naturalgaithorsemanship@yahoo.com or the BCH website at http://www.bchmt.org/bitterroot/ under training.

Farmers market vendor meeting

Hamilton Farmers Market Co-op will hold its Annual Vendor Meeting on Saturday, April 9 at 1 p.m. in the Corvallis Grange Hall on Dutch Hill Road, just west of the Hwy 93 and Woodside Cutoff intersection.

The business meeting will begin at 1 p.m. with announcements, board member election, and committee reports, followed by yearly vendor registration and booth space assignments.

If you are a current Market vendor and have not received your registration packet or if you are a new vendor who lives in Ravalli County and what you intend to sell is made or grown in Montana, call Laura Craig, Market Manager, at 961-0004 for a vendor information packet and registration form before you come to the meeting.

Hamilton Farmers Market Co-op, celebrating its 20th year, continues to grow, providing a beautiful venue with ambiance where local vendors can sell their healthy produce and unique, functional and enduring wares to the community. If you would like to be part of this, as either a vendor or customer, the market is held on Saturdays on Bedford, Second and Third Streets in Hamilton. The opening market’s May Festival for Kids will be May 7th.

WIC farmer training

Ravalli County WIC will be holding training on Saturday, April 9 at 2:45 p.m. at the Corvallis Grange. This is for all farmers who need to have annual training, or who want to start accepting WIC coupons at markets or farm stands.

Stevensville FFA Banquet

The Stevensville FFA Chapter will hold its annual sponsorship and awards banquet on Saturday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at St. Mary's Family Center in Stevensville. The night will include a keynote address from Congressman Denny Rehberg, a silent auction, a free family style dinner, and an awards ceremony recognizing sponsors and student achievements. For questions or to RSVP contact Josh Perkins at 777-5481, ext. 141 or steviffa2011@live.com.

Contra Dance

A contra dance will be held Saturday, April 9, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange, 1436 S. 1st St (south of Hamilton on Hwy 93).

A practice session for new dancers will start at 6:30 p.m. The Sleeping Child String Band will provide music. Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family. No dance experience is required; all dances are taught, and singles are welcome. The event is fragrance-free.

Monday, April 11

First-time homebuyer classes

The Bitter Root Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc. (RC&D) is holding a nationally certified homebuyer education class on April 11, 12, and 13 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 if you would like to reserve a space. Attendance on all three nights is required for certification. The charge is $25 to cover the cost of reference materials. (If you are buying your home as a couple, one household, you both need to attend the class)

The class is especially beneficial to first-time homebuyers with below median incomes, but any potential homebuyer will benefit from the class. Anyone who has not owned a home for 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 loan assistance programs.

Thursday, April 14

FWP Commission

Montana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will meet Thursday, April 14 at the FWP Helena Headquarters, 1420 East 6th Ave. beginning at 8 a.m.

The FWP Commission will make final decisions on:

• an amendment to the administrative rule on Hauser Reservoir near Helena,

• repealing the administrative rule on the old Milltown Dam near Missoula,

• Future Fisheries Improvement Program grants,

• the Glendive Paddlefish Roe Committee membership,

• commercial fishing regulations on Canyon Ferry Lake and Lake Helena near Helena,

• modification to regulations in weapons restriction areas,

• the rules on marking hazards to navigation on waterways,

• an amendment to the administrative rule on Tongue River Reservoir,

• an administrative rule on the Flathead River,

• administrative rules on Alvord Lake, Kilbrennan Lake, and Brush Lake,

• 2011 peregrine falcon take,

• standard wildlife management area opening times,

• the Glendive urban deer plan, and

• the 2011 grazing and sharecrop leases on WMAs.

The commission will also consider a number of proposed actions, including:

• an agreement with the Montana Department of Transportation for a small piece of land at the Augusta Check Station to accommodate a road project,

• a petition for a rule on Church and Fennan slews in FWP Region 1,

• waiver of possession limits on Cherry and Granite Lakes,

• 2011 moose, sheep, goat quotas outside the biennial quota ranges,

• 2012 moose, sheep goat, deer and elk license auction rules, and

• the 2011 lion hunting quotas.

Information will be presented on the 2012 fishing regulation setting process and the FWP Commission will consider endorsing the potential transplant of sheep and mountain goats within Montana and the strategic plan for the Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program.

FWP ensures its meetings are fully accessible to those with a disability. Individuals with special needs may request arrangements by contacting FWP at: 406-444-3186.

The full agenda and additional information on the scheduled topics may be found on the FWP web site at HYPERLINK "http://www.fwp.mt.gov/"fwp.mt.gov by clicking on the FWP Commission icon.

Friday, April 15

St. Mary’s Mission opening ceremony

St. Mary’s Mission celebrates 170 years since the founding in 1841. No other community in Montana is this old and looks so good. Join in the Opening Day Celebration on Friday, April 15 at 12 noon with Mass in the historic Chapel. The Stevensville FFA Chapter will conduct a flag raising ceremony, followed by refreshments. Guided tours are available Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 777-5734. Visit St. Mary’s Mission and Museum on the West End of 4th Street in Stevensville.

Saturday, April 16

Miss Ravalli County Rodeo Clinic

The Miss Ravalli County Rodeo Clinic will be held Saturday, April 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:50 p.m. at the Ravalli County Fairground's Art Building and main arena. The clinic will cover many topics relating to competing for a title. Six local professionals will speak, including arena work with Clinician Patty Kusker. The clinic is $20.00, with lunch provided by Kodiak Jax. More information on Facebook or call 239-0728 or 381-5704. Deadline to register is April 9.

4-H Carnival

Spend your evening at the family friendly community carnival held on Saturday, April 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the First Interstate Building at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. All ticket stubs go toward the drawing for an original Pat Baker oil painting. Tickets are good for food and over 15 games. A community dance will follow from 8 to 10 p.m. This annual event supports the local 4-H program. For more information call 375-6611.

BPAC concert series

The Ravi Coltrane Quartet will appear in concert on Saturday, April 16 at 8 p.m. at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center.

A major force in jazz today, Ravi Coltrane is a critically acclaimed and Grammy nominated saxophonist, bandleader, and composer. Since 1991, Mr. Coltrane Coltrane has worked as a sideman with many jazz and pop luminaries, including Elvin Jones, Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Branford Marsalis, Kenny Baron and Steve Coleman, for whom he appears on several albums. Additionally, he has recorded noteworthy albums for himself and others, and overseen important jazz reissues. The second son of pianist Alice Coltrane and the legendary saxophonist John Coltrane, Ravi Coltrane has quietly crafted an accomplished career in jazz, without taking shortcuts and without exploiting the musical legacy built by his parents. Joined on tour by three fixtures on the jazz scene--bassist/composer Drew Gress, drum sensation E.J. Strickland, and pianist/composer/arranger Luis Perdomo—this is one rare musical evening not to be missed. Learn more at HYPERLINK "http://www.ravicoltrane.com" www.ravicoltrane.com Tickets ($27.50, 32.50) on sale now at www.bARTc.org or at 363-7946.

Sunday, April 17

Diabetes research fundraiser

A fundraiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation will be held Sunday, April 17 at UM Dornblaser Statium. Walk three miles; invite family and friends to walk with you; raise money for Type 1 Diabetes research, enjoy lunch, and kids' activities. This will be a fun event for families and friends. Registration at 1 p.m. and walk starts at 2 p.m. For more info or to register, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.walk.jdrf.org" www.walk.jdrf.org

Monday, April 18

SAFE Crisis Line volunteer training

Become a valued member of the SAFE volunteer crisis line team to serve victims of domestic or sexual violence. Crisis line volunteers provide information and a listening ear to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault and other callers. Training will be held April 18-21 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the SAFE office in Hamilton. Pre-registration is appreciated. A background check is required of all applicants. Call Theresa Rivera, Volunteer Coordinator, 363-2793, for registration and information.

Friday, April 22

Beta Sigma Phi tulip sale

The Bitterroot Chapters of Beta Sigma Phi will be holding their annual Tulip Flower Sale on Good Friday, April 22, beginning at 10 a.m. The proceeds this year will be donated to the local food banks, Haven House, Pantry Partners and Darby Bread Box, where the money will be used to purchase food from the local grocers. The tulips will sell for $7 for a bunch of 10 and can be purchased from members in front of Ravalli County Bank in Hamilton, Farmers State Bank in Victor and Rocky Mountain Bank in Stevensville and at various other locations in Hamilton, Victor, and Stevensville. Look for members selling tullips near the post offices, banks, grocery stores or on street corners all up and down the valley. Flowers can also be purchased in Hamilton at Parker’s Cannery Warehouse, 307 Hwy 93 N. Enter through the big doors in the alley west of Columbia Paint located at N. Hwy 93 and Pine Street. If you wish to place an order in advance call Reine Hilton at 375-1952.

Wednesday, April 27

Genealogy workstation class

The genealogy work station at the Darby Library is scheduled to begin Wednesday, April 27 with an orientation followed by assisted genealogy work from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Register early to reserve your space on this first work day. The Genealogy Work Station will then be offered the second Wednesday of every month from 12 to 4 p.m. on a first come, first served basis allowing patrons to continue their family research with on site staff to answer questions.

Computer website class

All adults interested in a Basic Computer Website Orientation can sign up at the Darby Community Public Library. A new class is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27 at 3 p.m.

Saturday, April 30

Victorian Fashion Show

Ravalli County Republican Women's Club will host a Victorian Garden Party Fashion Show & Luncheon on Saturday, April 30 at 12 noon at Corvallis Methodist Church, corner of Eastside Hwy and Cemetery Rd. Tickets are $20.00. Fashions will be presented by the Victorian Ladies' Tea Guild of Western Montana. For tickets and information call Laurie Burnham at 363-5675.

Friday, May 6

Psychic Fair

Kick off First Friday with a "Glimpse into Your Future." A Psychic Fair will be held May 6-9 in Hamilton. This event will offer numerous and diverse psychic arts from a wide variety of skilled practitioners. There will be tarot, astrology, rune, palmistry, energy healing, intuitive counseling, integrative massage therapy and much more. The event will be held at Between the Worlds, 205 W. Main Street, Hamilton. Practitioner applications are being accepted until April 15. For more information call 363-5225 or 370-1054.

Monday, July 18

UM science adventure camp

Registration is now open for “MOLLI Summer Adventures in Science: Connecting the Circle,” a summer camp for children ages 6 through 12 and their grandparents hosted by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Montana. The science day camp will run Monday and Tuesday, July 18-19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants will learn from one another in scientific exploration through classroom and field experiences, starting with the “Mr. G Science Show” with Glenn Govertsen, who has taught physics at Missoula’s Sentinel High School for more than 30 years and is a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching.

The following summer camp courses are designed for children 6 to 9 years old:

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