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Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Community CalendarHamilton Senior Center activities
Monday - noon lunch, cloggers at 1:30 p.m.; bingo on 1st & 3rd weeks, pinochle on 2nd week, 7 p.m.
Stevi Senior Center activities
Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m.
Victor Senior Center activities
Sundays - AA meeting, 7 p.m.
Al-AnonThe 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.
Gamblers AnonymousGamblers Anonymous classes are held at Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck St., Stevensville, on Mondays and Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Ask yourself these questions:
1) Have you ever felt remorse after gambling?
Narcotics AnonymousNarcotics Anonymous meets every Monday at 6:45 p.m. in the basement of Florence-Carlton Community Church and every Thursday at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church, corner of 4th and Church in Stevensville. For more information call 529-4542. TOPS meetingTOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter 343, meets every Thursday morning at 9 a.m. in the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck St., Stevensville. TOPS is a non profit weight loss support group Guests and new members are welcome. For more information call Jerry Sue at 777-5355.
VFW meetingsVFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Hamilton. Starting in November, the Women's Auxiliary will meet the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 649 Grantsdale Road. For more information call 363-3889.
Overeaters AnonymousOvereaters 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.
Golden AgersThe 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. The Valley Rhythm Boys will play December 26 and Dick Reinbold’s Band on January 2. Exercise classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m. The next business meeting is January 7, following a 12:30 potluck dinner.
Florence American LegionThe Florence American Legion Post 134 meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at the IOOF hall in Florence at 7 p.m.
Stevensville American LegionThe 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.
Waldorf Play GroupThe 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.
Suicide Loss SupportSuicide Loss Support holds informal meetings the second Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the community room of the North Valley Public Library, 208 Main and the fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Aspen Hospice, 230 Marcus St. in Hamilton. 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 Brian Cherry, Ravalli County Youth Suicide Prevention Coordinator, 360-2708.
SAFE support groupsSAFE, 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 the Community Resource Building, 150 Morning Star Way, Hamilton. Free childcare is available. For more information contact SAFE, 363-2793.
Caregiver coffee breakAre 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.
Singing Lilies groupAny women who enjoy singing two- and three-part harmony to a wide variety of piano-accompanied music are invited to join Lilies of the Valley singing group. No auditions are required for participation. Have fun sharing your time and talent under the direction of Thelma Laws. The group meets Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at 211 N. 6th in Hamilton. For more information call Lola, 363-4633.
WIC clinicsA WIC clinic is offered the first through the fourth Wednesdays of each month at the United Methodist Church in Stevensville, the second Monday of each month at the Church of the Nazarene in Victor, and the third Monday of each month at the Darby Clubhouse. WIC eligibility guidelines are: yearly gross of $19,240 for family of 1 (including unborn child; $25,900 for 2; $32,560 for 3; $39,220 for 4: $45,880 for 5; $52,540 for 6. For each additional member add $6,660.
Sapphire Quilt ClubThe 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.
Men’s Bereavement Support BreakfastFor men 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. For more information or to reserve your spot, call Cathy at 375-4752.
Grief Support GroupYou are invited to learn how to deal with the grief you feel for the loss of a loved one. Marcus Daly Hospice offers a free Grief Support Group every Tuesday from 2 to 3:30 p.m., meeting in Hospice’s comfortable living room. The group is open to anyone in the community. For more information, call Cathy at 375-4752.
Dancercize classes“Dancercize Around the World” is a fun, low impact class designed for adults of all ages and abilities to strengthen, tone, stretch and improve breathing while moving in a variety of music and dance styles including Latin, African, Renaissance, Modern, Improvisation and American Jazz/Bop. Classes are held Mondays and Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. For more information call Elenita Brown, 777-5956.
Library StorytimesThe North Valley Public Library in Stevensville offers story times for children ages seven and under on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. No registration is required. For more information call the library at 777-5061.
Stevensville AwanaAwana meets every Tuesday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 402 Church in Stevensville. Children from the ages of 3 years through 6th grade come together for a fun time of games, Bible lessons, and reciting Bible verses to earn awards. A healthy snack is provided for those coming directly from school. Awana is an international kids’ club open to any child. For more information call 777-5677.
Lone Rock AwanaLone Rock Bible Church, 1142 Three Mile Creek Rd., Stevensville, invites all children from preschool (age 4) through sixth grade to come to Awana Club every Wednesday from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m. at the church. Awana is one of the largest nondenominational children's and youth ministries in the world, focused on spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through the local church. Each week the boys and girls will learn Bible verses, have a Bible story time and play organized games. For more information call the church office, 777-2592.
Dance classesBig Sky International Dancers offer a free dance class every Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 115 S. 3rd in Hamilton. Learn the two-step, swing and waltz. This is an ever-expanding group of singles and couples. The program is sponsored by the Hamilton Rainbow Girls. Additional free personal dance instruction is available in Corvallis. For more information call Glory Corbett, 961-8866.
SoroptimistsSoroptimist International of Hamilton meets the first three Thursdays of each month at BJ's at noon. Soroptimist is a worldwide organization for women in management and professions working through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women.
Spanish conversation groupHabla 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. Work support groupLaid off? Looking for work? Join a new Work Support Group for networking and information exchange Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. at the Olde Coffee Mill on Main Street in Stevensville. For more information, call 360-7002.
PFLAG ChapterFamilies and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG meets every fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, in the basement, 600 S. 3rd St., Hamilton. The building is handicap accessible from DeSmet Street through the back door of the church. For more information contact Terry Moran, 363-7656.
Free tax assistanceVolunteer help for seniors and low income residents is now available in Hamilton and Stevensville. AARP trained counselors are available at the Hamilton Senior Center (363-5181) on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons. Starting February 24, assistance will also be available at the Ravalli County Federal Credit Union (363-4631) on Tuesday mornings. In Stevensville, counselors are available on Thursdays at the Senior Center (777-5681). Help is by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling or stopping in at the location that you prefer. Help is available through April 15, but slots are filling quickly.
Lutheran Lenten servicesJoin the members of Our Savior Lutheran Church of Stevensille at a Lenten service each Thursday at 7 p.m. from March 5 through April 2 for all who wish to reflect on the reasons Christ died on Good Friday and rose again on Easter. Prior to each service a free soup and sandwich supper will be served in the fellowship hall from 6 to 7 p.m. Potluck donations are always welcome, but for people coming directly from work, your fellowship is enough. Bring your family to eat and then join the congregation in worship. Our Savior is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road, off the Eastside Hwy. southeast of Stevensville. For more information call 777-5625 weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
Baucus office hoursMembers of Montana’s senior U.S. Senator Max Baucus’ will be on hand on Thursday, March 5 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Administrator Building, 215 S. 4th in Hamilton to meet with fellow treasure state residents. Senator Baucus has been using office hours like these across the state for many years to allow an opportunity for Montanans to voice their opinions on the issues that matter to them or get help with federal agencies.
Writers’ get-togetherAll Bitterroot writers are invited to a free community get-together on Thursday, March 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library meeting room. It doesn't matter if you are published or unpublished. This is an opportunity to network, find inspiration, and encourage each other to write. For more information, call 777-3045.
Library children’s cornerAuthor Cookie Grimes will read “Jake the Cow Horse” and demonstrate how she writes and illustrates her books on Thursday, March 5 at 4 p.m. in the children’s corner at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. For more information call the library at 363-1670.
Ham radio classThere will be an Amateur Radio (Ham) class for anyone interested in getting their Technician Amateur Radio License beginning Thursday, March 5. The class will start at 7 p.m. and will be held every Thursday evening until April 23rd at the LDS Church in Stevensville (use northwest door). Licensed ham radio operators will teach the class and demonstrate radios and methods of communication throughout the class sessions. There will no charge for the class. Each participant is encouraged to get the book, "ARRL Technician Class License Manual,” available online from arrl.org or at Barnes and Noble book stores. For more information call Lawrence Brooker at 777-0238 or Dallas Erickson at 777-5862.
Sapphire Arabian Horse ClubThe Sapphire Arabian Horse Club (SAHC) monthly meeting will held Thursday, March 5 and will feature a program on "Equine Liability Laws for Horse Owners" presented by Brenda Wahler, attorney and SAHC member. Meeting and program will be at Stevensville Feed and Farm in the conference room. Prospective new members and guests are welcome to attend. Program at 7 p.m. and business meeting to follow. For further information, call Wendy at 544-2926 or check http://www.sapphireahc.com.
Pachyderm ClubThe North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, March 6, at noon at the Frontier Cafe, U.S. 93 in Stevensville. The guest speaker will be Dan Cox. North Valley Pachyderm Club meets the first and third Friday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Frontier Café. Everyone is welcome. The Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. For more information call Cathy, 777-1618.
Prom wear available for loanNarnia’s Wardrobe at St. Paul Episcopal Church, located at 600 S. 3rd, is a non-profit organization that loans clothing, shoes, jewelry, purses and graduation gowns at no cost to Bitterroot youth. Young men and women’s prom wear will be available Friday, March 6 from 4 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointment. Alterations will be supplied on site, for that perfect fit. A nominal deposit is required and will be refunded when the items are returned. Come check out the wide range of styles and sizes, and get to that special event in style!
Ernst Peterson photography contestDeadline for entries in the 17th Annual Ernst Peterson “Photograph Montana” Contest is March 6. There are two Professional Categories: Black and White, and Color; and ten Amateur Categories: Scenic—Black and White; Scenic—Color; People—Black and White; People—Color; Domestic Animals; Wild Animals; Macro (other than flowers); Flowers; Structures; Abstract/Manipulated. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons will be awarded in each category with a Grand Prize in the Professional and Amateur divisions and a People’s Choice Award for the entire contest. All photos must have been taken in Montana, Yellowstone, Glacier or the Selway/Bitterroot. Photos entered in previous Ernst Peterson Photo Contests are not allowed. All photos must be 8 by 10” or 8 by 12”. All photos must be single-matted in white with a 3” maximum width on matting. No frames or double-matting allowed. No picture hangers allowed. (These will be attached by museum staff.) No signatures, imprints, or identifying watermarks on the front. Digital photos are allowed in all categories. There is a $3.00 entry fee for each photo. Judges reserve the right to reassign the category of submitted images. A professional is defined as anyone who actively pursues the sale of their images. Entries will be exhibited March 19 to April 18. Judging and Award Ceremony will be held April 18 at 2 p.m. at the Ravalli County Museum. Contact the Museum for entry forms. Call 363-3338 or email: rcmuseum@qwestoffice.net.
Knights of Columbus fish fryKnights of Columbus Council 6130 will hold a fish fry on Friday, March 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton. The public is welcome. For more information contact Nick Hooper, 381-1200.
Digital scrapbooking classEver wish you could organize and preserve your precious photos and memorabilia? Learn from area expert, Sue Gust, on how to use your computer to scrapbook anything from photos to newspaper clippings in an attractive and systematic way. The program will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 6. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. The North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 777-5061.
Capitol Tree ornament saleIf you want to own a piece of history, please come to the Community Room of the North Valley Public Library, Main St., Stevensville, on First Friday, March 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. when RSVP will be selling some of the ornaments that hung on the 2008 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. Many of them were made by the Stevensville Capitol Tree Workshop, so come to see the ornaments, enjoy the music of the popular Cedar Ridge Bluegrass Band, and support Ravalli County's indispensable Retired Senior Volunteer Program. The evening will be sponsored by the Friends of the Library, and light refreshments will be served.
Model trains run againAfter the short month, First Friday, March 6 is upon us and that means the Bitterroot Valley Model Railroaders are rolling out their trains on their layout in the Kohl Building right behind Valley Drug on Main Street in Stevensville. The fun runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Come see what's new!
Stevensville Playhouse productionThe Stevensville Playhouse will be presenting John Patrick's "The Curious Savage" beginning March 6. This is a warm story of a wealthy elderly woman, Ethel Savage, who is committed to a cozy institution by her three greedy step-children. Mrs. Savage takes delight in the fact that her and her late husband’s fortune is safely secured in non-negotiable bonds that only she knows the whereabouts of. When she enters the institution, The Cloisters, the small group she meets there enters her heart. Meanwhile, her three step-children will stop at nothing to get their hands on Mrs. Savage's money. "The Curious Savage" is certain to entertain theatergoers looking for a clever plot, a fantastic setting, and a tenacious group of characters who won't be unhampered by deceit. Showtimes are March 6-7, 12-14 and 20-21 at 8 p.m. and March 8, 15 and 22 at 2 p.m. The Stevensville Playhouse is located at 316 Main in Stevensville. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children. For ticket information call 777-2722.
White elephant saleThe Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th in Hamilton, is sponsoring a White Elephant Sale in the Bitterroot Room on Saturday, March 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. as a fundraiser for extensive roof repair. Donations of small items are still being accepted; drop off at Center by early Friday. For more information call Pat at 375-8255 or Irene at 363-3609.
Pancake breakfastA pancake breakfast will be held Saturday, March 7 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. The menu is pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, juice, fruit and coffee. Cost is $4 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under. For more information call 363-5181.
Waldorf meetingDoes your child feel disconnected from school? Are you dissatisfied with today's education system? Imagine a school that honors a child as a being with not only a mind, but a soul, heart, and hands. Imagine nurturing the whole child. Imagine Waldorf education. It's coming to the Bitterroot. Find out how on Saturday, March 7 at 12 noon at the Bitterroot Public Library, 306 State Street (downstairs) in Hamilton. For more information contact Brandi at (406) 523-1935.
Beekeeping workshopMontana State University Broadwater County Extension and the Montana Department of Agriculture will present a beginning beekeeping workshop on Saturday, March 7 in Townsend. New beekeepers, including youth, can learn how to get started, how to over-winter hives, and how to manage mites, among other topics. This program also features a honey tasting. Presenters include Jeff Littlefield, a MSU entomologist, who will discuss honeybee biology; Dick Molenda of Western Bee Supplies in Polson, who will demonstrate beekeeping equipment; and Ian Foley and Patty Denke of the Montana Department of Agriculture. Foley will discuss apiary statutes in Montana and Denke will discuss pollination, pollinator gardens and honeybee diseases. The workshop runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and takes place at the 4-H Community Building on the Broadwater County fair and rodeo grounds two miles east of Townsend on Highway 12. The cost, which includes lunch, is $25 for adults and $10 for children 14 and under. Registration is due by March 2 and is limited to 40 people. Send payment made out to Broadwater County Extension along with your name, address and phone number to: Beekeeping Workshop, c/o Broadwater County Extension, 515 Broadway, Townsend MT 59644. Workshop information is also available on the internet at http://www.msuextension.org". For more information, call Virginia Knerr at 406-266-9242 or email her at acxvk@montana.edu.
Chapter One eventsOn Saturday, March 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., five authors will be singing their books at Chapter One Book Store, 252 Main in Hamilton. Dan Pence of Dillon will sign “Horses, Mules, Men and Mountains,” a collection of stories based his years in Idaho, Nevada and Montana as a USFS Ranger and as a private outfitter. Victor author Cookie Grimes will sign her illustrated children’s book, “Jake the Cowhorse.” Helena author Anne Hassett signs her new historical novel, “Almost Kings,” set in Ireland and Montana. Hamilton author Virginia Bolen will sign “Finders Keepers,” her account of one woman's unfortunate encounter with the local justice system. Donna Love of Seeley Lake will sign copies of “Henry, the Impatient Heron,” her illustrated children’s book about a young heron who just can’t hold still. On Tuesday, March 10, at 7 p.m., author Alan Weltzien of Dillon will read from and talk about two books, “The Norman Maclean Reader,” which he edited, and “A Father and an Island,” a memoir about his youth on Washington’s Camano Island, and his relationship with his father, published in 2008. For more information contact Chapter One at 363-5220.
Bleek family benefitHelp Braden Bleek fight cancer at a benefit party on Saturday, March 7 from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Family Center. There will be a spaghetti dinner, live music by The Wrinkle Tones, silent auction, board games and fun for the whole family. Bitterroot Bandits 4-H Club and co-workers of Jackie Bleek will be selling tickets. For more information call Shawna Denney at 381-4400. Donations for the Bleek family can also be dropped off at Rocky Mountain Bank in Stevensville.
Square dance clubBoots ‘n’ Calico Square Dance Club will hold mainstream instruction on Saturday, March 7 at 6 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. A regular dance will follow at about 8 p.m. and continue to 9:30 p.m. The dance level will be mainstream with plus tips. Rounds will be provided between tips. The caller will be Ray Dunbar. Club members will provide refreshments. For more information call Dee Terrill, 961-1728, or Jeanne Burruss, 961-3468.
Lone Rock Park BoardThe Lone Rock Division of the Ravalli County Park Board will meet Sunday, March 8 at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Fire Hall. The public is welcome.
Stevensville Playhouse auditionsThe Stevensville Playhouse will be holding auditions for “Nunsensations, The Nunsense Vegas Revue” on Monday, March 9 at 7 p.m. at 319 Main Street, Stevensville. Casting roles for five women, singing and some dancing, will be required. Rehearsals will begin March 11 with show dates of May 8-10, 15-17, 22-24. For more information call Gretchen at 777-0520.
Hunter safety courseA Hunter's Safety course for children and adults will be held this March at the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Any child that is under 18 must bring a parent with them to sign up for the class and additional information can be found on FWP's website under online classes. Adult students and parents are most heartily encouraged to attend. All activity is at the refuge with sign ups on March 9 between 7 and 8:30 p.m. Class will run from Monday, March 16 through March 30. Questions can be directed to FWP or to Lori and Jerry Donaldson, 777-3368 or 550-9422.
Stevi school board meetingThe regular meeting of the Stevensville School Board of Trustees will be Tuesday, March 10 at 7 pm. in the Stevensville High School Learning Center.
Refuge post-season hunting meetingWaterfowl and deer-archery hunters are invited to attend a public meeting reviewing the recently closed 2008 hunting seasons on Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). The agenda will include discussion of statistical data, regulations, issues, concerns, and law enforcement regarding hunting on the Refuge. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 10 at the Lee Metcalf NWR Headquarters (Okefenokee Room), about 4 miles north of Stevensville, on Wildfowl Lane. The meeting, starting at 7 p.m., will address the deer-archery season first and then transition at about 7:30 p.m. to a discussion of the waterfowl hunting season. For more information, call 777-5552, ext. 203.
Veterans Affairs officer to visitLen Leibinger, Regional Service Officer for the Montana Veterans Affairs Division in Missoula, will be available to veterans and their dependents who have questions or need to file a claim with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs on Tuesday, March 10 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. He will be in Hamilton again on Tuesday, March 24 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Note that the Montana Veterans Affairs office has moved from its old location at the National Guard Armory on Reserve Street to the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery at 1911 Tower Street, Missoula.
UM Wilderness Lecture SeriesThe 2009 Wilderness Issues Lecture Series will bring mountaineers, explorers, wildlife biologists and writers to The University of Montana to describe their journeys into remote landscapes and how those trips further conservation around the world. The lecture series -- “Wilderness Expeditions: Journeys in Conservation” -- is free and open to the public. Lectures will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through March 24 in Gallagher Business Building Room 106. The next lecture is March 10: “Sea Voyage on the Alaska Coast: Retracing the Harriman Expedition of 1899 and Exploring a Century of Change” by Paul Alaback, UM professor of forest ecology. Series information is on the Wilderness Institute Web site at http://www.cfc.umt.edu/wi/lecture.html. For more information, call 243-5361 or e-mail wi@cfc.umt.edu.
UM Spring Dance ShowcaseThe University of Montana Department of Drama/Dance will present 15 pieces of choreography by students and faculty at Spring Dance Showcase performances Tuesday through Saturday, March 10-14. Two programs will be offered on alternate evenings, starting with Program I on Tuesday and Program II on Wednesday. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Montana Theater in the Performing Arts and Radio/Television Center. Program II also will be shown at 2 p.m. Saturday. Tickets cost $8 and are available from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the PAR/TV Box Office or by calling 406-243-4581. The box office also will sell tickets beginning one hour before each show.
Library storytimeStorytime will be held in the children’s corner of the Bitterroot Public Library on Wednesay, March 11 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. when storyteller Kristen Weese offers, “Bath Time.”
Hunter education classesSpring Hunter Education courses are scheduled for many communities across west-central Montana. 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. A parent or legal guardian must accompany students under 18 to register. The schedule is as follows: Corvallis: Register Monday, March 16, 6 p.m., at Corvallis Middle School. Classes are in the middle school cafeteria March 23-27 from 6-8:30 p.m. every evening. Limited to 35 students. Florence: Register Wednesday, March 11, 6 p.m., at Florence High School. Classes are at the high school March 23-27 from 6:30-9 p.m. every evening. Limited to 25 students. Lolo: Register and start classes on Thursday, March 26, 7-9:30 p.m. at Woodman School, approximately 10 miles west of Lolo on Hwy 12. Classes are Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9:30 p.m., beginning April 7 and ending May 5. Stevensville: March class: Register Monday, March 9, 7-8:30 p.m., at Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Classes will run March 16-30 from 7-9:30 p.m. every evening and on Saturday, March 21 from 8:30a.m.-12:30 p.m. The field course is Saturday, March 28, 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. June class: Register on Tuesday, June 2 at 7p.m. at Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Classes are June 9, 10, 16, 17, 18 & 19 from 7-9p.m. and the field course is Saturday, June 20, beginning at 8 a.m. Darby will also hold a hunter education class this spring, but the dates have not been set yet. For an updated schedule and more information on classes, visit the FWP website, fwp.mt.gov or call 542-5500.
FWP CommissionMontana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will meet March 12 at the FWP Helena Headquarters, 1420 East 6th Ave, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Commissioners will make final decisions on a number of issues including: funding of Future Fisheries Improvement Program projects; 2009 peregrine falcon quotas authorizing the take of up to five nestlings for falconry, FWP Region 2 deer season adjustment, a boundary change between hunting district 640 and 641, a habitat restoration project at Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area, the Keep Cool Hills rule providing managed public access to this area near Lincoln; nominations to the Livestock Loss Reduction and Mitigation Board, and renewal of a water lease on Big Creek in the Paradise Valley. The FWP Commission will also consider acquiring a new fishing access site on the Madison River south of Ennis, and an endorsement to seek resolution of the mineral rights issues associated with Rosebud Battlefield State Park. The FWP Commission will also hear an update on the operation of the bison quarantine facility near Yellowstone National Park. There will be an opportunity to address issues not on the agenda in the late morning, followed by a work session to orient new FWP Commission members. 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 this meeting may be found on the FWP web site at http://www.fwp.mt.gov under the heading FWP Commission.
Prevention ConferenceThe 6th Annual Ravalli County Prevention Conference will be held Thursday, March 12, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th St in Hamilton. This year's theme is Connecting Our Youth and Community: Building Protective Factors for the Future and will feature keynote speaker Michael Mann from the National Institute on Media and the Family. He will be presenting “Why Do They Act That Way: A Survival Guide to the Teen Brain.” Also presenting is Dr. Danette Wollersheim addressing “Healthy Early Childhood Attachment to Increase Protective Factors.” Dr. Tim Conley (UMT) will be discussing “The Culture of Alcohol in Rural Areas” and there will be several other presentations throughout the day on: Child Advocacy and Law Enforcement Roles in Prevention, Household Hazards: Inhalants and Prescription Drug Abuse, Youth and Tobacco, QPR Suicide Prevention and others. Continuing ed credits are available. Space is limited. Call Faylee at 532-9140 to register. Cost is $20 if registered by March 6 and $25 if applying for CEUs or late registration.
Women Newcomer’s ClubBitterroot Women Newcomers' Club March meets Thursday, March 12, at 10:15 a.m. upstairs at the Ravalli County Museum at 3rd and Bedford in Hamilton. Coffee or tea and goodies will be served. Some new special interest clubs are forming this month. Lunch will follow at a local restaurant. Visitors are always welcome. Call Dona at 961-4269 for more information.
Business referral meetingThe Bitterroot Business Referral Group invites all Ravalli County business women to their monthly meeting, Thursday, March 12, at Perkins Restaurant on U.S. 93 in Hamilton, from noon to 1 p.m. Featured speakers this month will be Michelle Kuntz of Investment Protection Services, and Larissa Truc of Windermere Real Estate and Bitterroot Beanery. Call Patt at 375-5263 if you would like to attend, or for more information.
Teen brain workshopDo you have a teen? Does your teen have a brain? Then this free event is for you! Kids First and South Valley Child and Family Center present an evening with guest presenter Michael Mann from the National Institute on Media and the Family and his workshop on “Tools for Understanding the Teen Brain.” The workshop will be held Thursday, March 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at South Valley Child and Family Center, 515 Madison in Hamilton. Refreshments will be served and mysteries solved! We have discovered in the last decade that the teen brain is a work in progress and there are new and exciting ways to approach communication, sex, risk-taking and other issues with your teen. Especially for parents and educators! Call 363-3450 for further information.
Methodist evening praise serviceNeeding some spiritual answers in these difficult times? Busy on Sunday mornings? Wanting a come as you are, informal, short service? Wanting to sing some contemporary, joy-filled praise music? The Stevensville Methodist Church's once a month "Second Sunday Service" could be just what you've been looking for. Talented performers Ken Johnson, Tom and Kerri Roat, and Dave Lockman share their faith in a dynamic way on Sunday, March 14 at 7 p.m. Pastor Nancy Slabaugh-Hart's brief message and prayer will touch your heart. For more info, call 777-5443.
Anti-violence benefit film screeningThe public is invited to a special benefit film screening of “Until the Violence Stops” on Monday, March 16 at the Roxy Theater in Hamilton. “Until the Violence Stops” is a moving chronicle of how Eve Ensler’s hit play, “The Vagina Monologues,” became a global grassroots movement to stop violence against women and girls. This empowering and funny film takes us to six communities and shows the power of breaking the silence that surrounds abuse. More than just a group testimonial, “Until the Violence Stops” is a moving celebration of community awareness that leaves us with the hope that change can happen. Tickets are $10 at the door, with proceeds supporting Supporters of Abuse Free Environments, Inc. and V-Day. V-Day is a global movement to end violence against women and girls that raises funds and awareness through benefit productions Ensler’s work. To date, V-Day has raised over $50 million to support education, public awareness and services to stop violence against women and girls – including the Karama program in the Middle East, more than 5,000 community-based anti-violence programs, and shelters in Kenya, South Dakota, Egypt and Iraq. Join in for the second V-Day Hamilton, Montana celebration. Social hour is at 5:45 pm, with the film showing at 7 pm. For more information call SAFE at 363-2793 or visit http://www.vday.org.
Baby Sign Language ClassWould you like to jumpstart your baby’s language development? Enhance your child’s self-esteem? Stimulate your baby’s intellectual development? Strengthen your parent-infant bond or reduce your child’s communication frustrations? Sponsored by Marcus Daly Rehabilitation Services, this Baby Sign Language Class is designed to benefit most children and their guardian. Beginning March 17, this class will meet every Tuesday for six weeks from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. in the Marcus Daly Rehabilitation Service’s pediatric gym. The gym is located inside Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital at 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton. Amy Yockey, licensed Speech Therapist at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, will be teaching this class. If you have a child in your life six months to 3 years of age, call Marcus Daly Rehabilitation Services at 375-4570 to reserve your spot. The fee is $10 and space is limited.
Dallas Brass concertThe internationally acclaimed Dallas Brass will be performing at Florence Carlton School gymnasium on Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m. This concert will be full of surprises with fun, serious, and intricate pieces suitable for the entire family. Advanced tickets are only $5 for students; $10 for adults, and are available at the school, Florence Pharmacy, Chapter One Book Store and The Music Box, Hamilton, Valley Drug & Variety, Stevensville, Morgenroth Music and Electronic Sound & Percussion, Missoula, or go to moclub.com to buy tickets on-line. The Dallas Brass is a nationally renowned brass ensemble “that has established a unique blend of traditional brass instruments with a full complement of drums and percussion, which creates a performing entity of extraordinary range and musical challenges. The Dallas Brass repertoire includes classical masterpieces, Dixieland, swing, Broadway, Hollywood, and patriotic music.” The Middle School and High School students will be a part of all day clinics and practice sessions that are both highly educational and entertaining. At the end of the day, each band will take to the stage to perform a selection with the Dallas Brass in the community concert. Florence Carlton band director, Jennifer (Schumaker) Kirby, a graduate of Stevensville High School, hopes to provide students an opportunity to enhance their involvement in a life-long learning and love of music.
BEAR Venture programBEAR’s Bitterroot Venture program runs activities with experienced mentors for youth aged 12-18. BEAR will be continuing to offer SK8 Camps once a month. Sign up now for the March 21st trip. Space is limited; call 375-9110 for more information and to register. BEAR’s mission is to inspire youth to connect with their own potential, their community, and the landscape through experiential and outdoor adventure programs. Transportation can be provided.
Community mealA free Community Meal will be held Saturday, March 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 402 Church Street, Stevensville.
Horse euthanasia serviceA Final Act of Kindness Service for horses and mules is being offered on Thursday, March 26. These tough economic times, rising costs of hay, and now a cold winter have made it difficult for some folks to provide hay and care, etc. for their horses and mules. This already difficult situation is compounded by the fact that "putting a horse down" can run $200.00 or more. An animal brought to the monthly horse auction/sale may bring only a small sum. It can also create additional hardship for an older, injured, or debilitated animal that could end up being transported out of the country (to Mexico or Canada) for slaughter. In light of this, A Final Act of Kindness Service will be offered on March 26 for a reduced fee to horse owners who may have difficulty coming up with the full cost of euthanasia. This service is for ill, debilitated, and elderly horses that are suffering. Willing Servants will take ownership of each horse and make the final decision as to whether or not the horse is adoptable or should be put down with the guidance of a veterinarian. For folks who don’t want their animals to suffer, and as a kinder, non-violent option to the auction or sale ring, this service is being offered by Willing Servants, Inc, a new non-profit group in the Bitterroot Valley dedicated to helping horses and the people who own them. The service will be offered on a recurring basis (monthly or bimonthly, depending on need). For further information and to request space in the upcoming "Final Act of Kindness" service in February, call 207-0463 or 531-2444.
Home & Property Educational SeriesHorticultural questions will be answered and small acreage problems will be solved at a series of classes organized by the Department of Agriculture and local nurseries, feed stores, and agencies. The first class will be held Thursday, March 26 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Corvallis Grange. The topic will be Range & Pasture. If you are interested in attending, or if you have questions about this class or the other classes that will be offered throughout the summer, call 777-5842.
Stevi kindergarten registrationStevensville Elementary School will be having kindergarten registration and Child Find (free health screening for ages 0-6) on Friday, March 27 in the elementary gym from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Students must be 5 on or before September 10th to register. Bring a copy of their immunization records and birth certificate. Call to school an appointment at 777-5613. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are preferred.
Back Country Horsemen state conventionThe Back Country Horsemen of Montana will be holding their State Convention March 27-29 at the Red Lion Colonial Inn in Helena. The theme of the convention will be Traveling in the Back Country and chapters from around the state will have displays of their activities with information, handouts, and member applications. Vendors, both inside and outside at the Colonial Inn, will be open to the public and will offer back country and general stock items such as electric fencing, tack, camp supplies, trailers, farm and ranch equipment; also clothing, collectibles, hardware, etc. Vendor hours will be Friday 1-8 pm, Saturday 8 am-6 pm, and Sunday 8 am-noon. A raffle with prizes totaling nearly $2000 will include a Silver Bullet Tent Stove; Decker Pack Saddle; Counter Assault Electric Bear Fence; 3‚x4‚ Plasma Cut Metal Ranch Sign; and a Poulan Pro Chain Saw. Raffle tickets are $3 each, $5 for 2, or $10 for 5. You do not need to be present to win. There will also be a photo contest with a variety of categories. For further information or to buy raffle tickets, contact Darlene or Neil Horne at 406-458-9858 or email to mules2ride@msn.com. Convention sponsored by Last Chance Back Country Horsemen chapter of Helena.
Dinner theater to benefit fire departmentMark your calendars for Friday, March 27, the date of the Stevensville Fire Department’s annual fund raising event and dinner theater. This year will feature a production of "Honky Tonk Laundry” as well as the annual raffle. The dinner will be held at 6:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Family Center. Cost is $35.00 per person or $30.00 with a table of 8. The menu will be premium barbeque steaks with salad, baked potato, baked beans and dessert. Seating is limited to 200 so get your tickets early. Tickets are available at Stevensville Feed & Farm and Valley Drug. For more information or questions call Terri at 880-2492 or Crissy at 360-6789. A raffle will be held in conjunction with the dinner. Tickets are $1.00. First prize is half a beef. The money raised from this event is used to purchase equipment for local firefighting efforts and emergency medical services. The dinner theater proceeds will be used to purchase CPR training mannequins which are used in a CPR community education program. The costs for these training mannequins is $2500. In previous years, the department has purchased medical equipment, protective clothing and improvements to the training facility. Last year was a very busy year for the Stevensville Fire Department. It has has stepped up to provide initial response on all medical calls within the Town and Fire District. This has dramatically increased the response volume. Volunteers have performed with dedication to provide improved care for community residents. The department’s goal is to provide a minimum of six firefighters and medical responders on each emergency medical call, which means more volunteers are still needed. If you or someone you know would like to volunteer, call Lee Henderson at 239-1872. The Stevensville Fire Department responded to 513 calls in 2008. Of those, 85 were fire related, 344 were EMS and 55 were motor vehicle crashes. There are currently 43 firefighters on the roster including all four stations. Volunteers have logged 4461 hours in training and support in 2008.
Rodeo Club BanquetThe University of Montana Western Rodeo Club Banquet is Friday, March 27 in the Keltz Arena. Last year’s banquet was sold out by March 1. People are encouraged to buy their tickets as soon as possible. The evening begins with a no-host cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m. followed at 6 p.m. by a prime rib dinner. In addition to the dinner there is a silent auction, a live auction, a raffle and live music from The Slip from Butte. Tickets are $40.00 for singles, $80.00 per couple and $200 for a reserved table of eight. For more information or ticket reservations, call (406) 683-7305. All proceeds benefit the Montana Western Rodeo Club.
Farmers Market vendor meetingValley Farmers Market Co-op will hold its Annual Vendor Meeting on Saturday, March 28 at the Corvallis Grange Hall at 1 p.m. There will be a business meeting, board member election, yearly registration and booth space assignments. The Grange Hall is located on Dutch Hill Road just west of the Hwy. 93 and Woodside Cutoff intersection. If you are a current vendor and have not received your registration packet, or if you are a new vendor who lives in Ravalli County and 50% of the wholesale value of your product is added here in Montana, and you would like to have a booth at the market, call Laura Craig, Market Manager, at 961-0004, for a vendor information packet.
Communication classA Compassionate Communication weekend workshop, based on Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication, is being presented in Missoula in April. Learn to inspire cooperation and resolve conflicts so that everybody wins. Create more satisfying relationships with your partner, children, and co-workers by understanding the needs behind what anyone does or says. Learn to listen so others are really heard. Reconcile strained relationships. Express your truth with respect. For more information and to register email: veronica@veronicalassen.com or call 363-3076.
Western Classic basketball tourneyThe Western Classic Basketball Tourney will be held April 4 and 5 on the campus of UM-Western and Beaverhead County High School in Dillon. The tournament will have Boys and Girls Divisions, grades 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9. Cost is $170 per team with a guaranteed three games. Entry deadline is March 27. Send entries to Montana Western, c/o Steve Keller, 710 S. Atlantic, Dillon MT 59725 or fax to 406-683-7219. For more information call Steve Keller at 406-683-7341.
Birth doula trainingBirth doula training with Birth Mama childbirth educators will be held April 24-26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Happy Mama Yoga Studio in Missoula. Call 251-4401 for more information. |
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