Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Community Calendar

Hamilton Senior Center activities

Monday - noon lunch, cloggers at 1:30 p.m.; bingo on 1st & 3rd weeks, pinochle on 2nd week, 7 p.m.
Tuesday - line dancing at 9 a.m., cloggers at 3 p.m.
Wednesday - noon lunch, bridge at 1 p.m., cloggers at 5:30 p.m.
Thursday - exercise at 9 a.m.; pinochle on 3rd week, 1 p.m.
Friday - line dancing at 9:30 a.m., noon lunch
Saturday - pancake breakfast on 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 8-10 a.m.
Sunday – bridge, 1 p.m.

Stevi Senior Center activities

Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m.
Monday – Bridge and Special Music, noon.
Monday & Saturday - Pinochle, 7 p.m.
Tuesday - Exercise class, 10-11 a.m.
2nd Tuesday - Quilters, 6:30 p.m.
Every Other Wednesday – Fiddlers at Lunch
3rd Wednesday – Special Birthday Dinner, noon, with music. Blood pressures taken.
Thursday – Exercise class, 10-11 a.m.
1st & 3rd Thursday – American Legion Bingo, 7 p.m.
For more information call the Center at 777-5681 04 777-5707.

Victor Senior Center activities

Sundays - AA meeting, 7 p.m.
Monday-Thursday - Men's Coffee, 8:30-10 a.m.
Mondays & Wednesdays - Exercise, 10-11 a.m.
Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Includes salad bar, main course, dessert. Seniors $3.25, under 60 years $5.75. (RSVP 642-3320)
Tuesdays - Bingo, 7 p.m.
Wednesdays - Pinochle, 7 p.m.
Fridays - Ladies' Coffee, 10-11 a.m.

Al-Anon

The Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 375-9996.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers 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?
2) Do you often gamble until your last dollar is gone?
3) After you have won did you have a strong urge to return and win more?
If you answered yes to any of these questions this class might be good for you. For more information call 777-3897.

Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics 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 meeting

TOPS (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 meetings

VFW 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 Anonymous

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

Golden Agers

The Golden Age group meets every Friday from 8 to 10:30 p.m. at 727 S. 5th in Hamilton. If you are a senior citizen and are bored, looking for fun or just want something new to experience, attend and enjoy good food, live music, dancing and fellowship. Cost is $5. Snacks are potluck. 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 Legion

The 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 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.

Waldorf Play Group

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

Suicide Loss Support

Suicide 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 groups

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

Caregiver coffee break

Are you one of the millions of Americans who help someone else by providing companionship, preparing meals, running errands, driving to doctors appointments or by simply doing whatever needs to be done to assist someone who is ill or homebound? Aspen Hospice recognizes the complexity of caregiving and offers a time of respite. Whether or not the person you care for receives services from Aspen Hospice, you, as a caregiver, can find encouragement, support and information at the Caregiver Coffee Break every Wednesday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at 230 Marcus Street in Hamilton. Stop in anytime and stay as long as you like. Reservations are not required and coffee breaks are provided at no charge. For additional information, contact Elizabeth at 777-5009.

Singing Lilies group

Any 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 clinics

A 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 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.

Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast

For 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 Group

You 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 Storytimes

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

Stevensville Awana

Awana 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 Awana

Lone 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 classes

Big 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.

Soroptimists

Soroptimist International of Hamilton meets the first and third Thursdays of each month at noon and the second Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. 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.

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.

Work support group

Laid 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 Chapter

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

Divorce support group

Free DivorceCare seminar/support group meets every Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Canyon View Church, 195 Skalkaho Hwy. in Hamilton to help separated and divorced people through the grief that comes with divorce. Call 363-0875 or 363-4244 for more information.

New Thought service

Join others for New Thought service each Sunday from 9 to 10 a.m. via the internet at the Carriage House, 310 N. 4th Street, Hamilton, to watch Rev. Kathianne Lewis's message from the Center for Spiritual Living in Seattle, Washington. This is a Science of Mind community. Call Barb for more information, 375-9996.

BEAR Venture program

BEAR’s Bitterroot Venture program runs activities with experienced mentors for youth aged 12-18. On Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, come and learn about BEAR’s summer camps. The Westview Gym, located at 103 S. 9th, Hamilton will be open from 6 to 8 p.m. so stop in and grab a bite to eat and learn about all Bitterroot Venture has to offer this summer. Call 375-9110 for more information. BEAR’s mission is to inspire youth to connect with their own potential, their community, and the landscape through experiential and outdoor adventure programs.

Bitterroot Quilters Guild

The Bitterroot Quilters Guild will meet on Wednesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m. at the Canyon View Church, 195 Skalkaho Highway, Hamilton, about 1/4 mile from Highway 93, just beyond Homestead Organics.  Anyone interested in quilting is welcome to attend. Jim Carroll, of Anaconda, will display sixteen of his collection of antique American quilts, each with a human story to tell. The exhibition is designed to welcome questions from viewers – and to inspire new quilters to try their hand at this “rewarding and fun ancient craft form.”

Contact Eddi McElwee, 363-6109, or Terri Roeper, 642-9094, for further information regarding the program, or check online at www.BitterrootQuiltersGuild.com. For general information about the Quilt Guild, contact Pat Murphy, 375-2524.

Civil discourse conference

“Reason and Respect,” a conference on civil discourse, will be held Thursday, April 23 from 8:45 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton. Learn how to express your opinion and participate in productive dialogue to help your community move forward. This conference addresses positive ways to participate in community meetings and through letters. Cost is $15 per person and includes lunch. A wind and cheese reception will follow the conference at 5 p.m. Tickets are available at Chapter One Book Store in Hamilton or online at www.humanitiesmontana.org. For more information call 375-2571.

Impact Fee Advisory Committee

The Ravalli County Impact Fee Advisory Committee will host a public meeting of Ravalli County residents, and residents of Corvallis School District in particular, on Thursday, April 23 at 7 p.m. in the Corvallis High School Gymnasium. The Committee is seeking public comment supporting or opposing Corvallis School District's proposal that the Ravalli County Commissioners impose a $4000 impact fee for each new residential dwelling built within the school district boundaries. Public comment will be preceded by a brief discussion of the basics of state impact fee law and the history of the school district's successful effort to complete an impact fee study and bring this issue to the County Commissioners for a decision.

Community Food System meeting

The final in a series of planning meetings on developing a community food system in the Bitterroot is being held Thursday, April 23 at 6 p.m. at the Corvallis United Methodist Church, 356 Cemetery Rd., just south of Corvallis. Everyone is welcome and refreshments will be provided. For more information contact Jill Davies, 642-3601.

PFLAG potluck meeting

The monthly meeting of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) support group will be held Thursday, April 23 at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 600 S. 3rd St., Hamilton. A potluck will preceded the meeting at 6 p.m. Music will be provided by the Swingaderos. The meeting will include a discussion about incorporating ourselves into a non-profit organization.

For more information, contact spokesperson Terry Moran, terrymoran1955@yahoo.com or 363-7656.

Responsible alcohol sales training

Western MT Addiction Services is holding a Responsible Alcohol Sales and Service training on Thursday, April 23 from 1 to 4 p.m. at 209 N. 10th St, Suite C in Hamilton. The cost of the training is $15 for materials.

The “Let’s Control It” course teaches participants to recognize and prevent intoxication in others. Program participants are trained by certified instructors to detect the signs of intoxication and intervene effectively to prevent any alcohol-related problems. The course also teaches participants how to identify underage persons to help limit the access to alcohol and cigarettes for youth.

The servers and sellers of alcohol in our community are the first line of defense in curbing underage drinking and smoking, over intoxication, and drunk driving. People in these professions (including waitstaff, bartenders, managers and owners of liquor stores, bars and restaurants that serve alcohol) have an obligation to the well being of the community and for their own personal effect that have personal risk and liability. This training will assist them in creating a safer community and personal environment.

The “Let’s Control It” curriculum is approved by the Montana Dept. of Revenue and participants will receive a certificate of completion. For further information or to register call 532-9149 or email HYPERLINK "mailto:ffavara@wmmhc.org" ffavara@wmmhc.org. Register by April 20.

Blood drive

Someone in Montana needs blood every 27 minutes. Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital and the American Red Cross are having a blood drive on Thursday, April 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Marcus Daly Conference Rooms B and C. Approximately 39,000 units of blood are used in the USA daily. The need is constant. Make an appointment by calling Gary Schultz at 375-4451. Donors should remember to eat complete meals and drink plenty of water before donating blood and for more information visit http://www.mdmh.org.

Compassionate Communication Workshop

A Compassionate Communication Workshop will be held Friday, April 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Missoula, 102 Mcleod Ave.

Most of us have been educated from birth to compete, judge, demand, diagnose - to think and communicate in terms of what is “right” and “wrong.” Even when we are well meaning this can be disastrous to our personal and professional relationships. Come learn the “conscious communication” techniques of Compassionate (Nonviolent) Communication and leave more aware of our shared connection, and the profound power of positive language. Join the thousands of people worldwide who have improved their relationships and their lives with this simple yet revolutionary process.

Join Veronica Lassen, author, educator and CC trainer in this stimulating, interactive workshop. Friday night will cover the basics and Saturday will be a time of deepening understanding and practice. If you are a parent, spouse, co-worker, peacemaker or want to participate in life-affirming organizations, this workshop is for you.

There is a requested sliding scale fee of $40 paid at the door, with no one turned away for inability to pay the full amount. Based on the work of Marshall B. Rosenberg, PhD, author of Nonviolent Communication, a Language of Life. For more information or to register, call Veronica Lassen, 363-3076 or email veronica@veronicalassen.com.

Birth doula training

Birth 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.

Paper drive

The Hamilton Garden Club will hold its first paper drive of the season on Friday, April 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Safeway parking lot.

More than 300 handbell ringers from Montana, Idaho and eastern Washington will be in Hamilton the weekend of April 24 and 25 for the 28th annual Big Sky Handbell Festival. This is the first time Hamilton has had the privilege of hosting such a spectacular event.

The musicians, who represent over thirty handbell choirs, will rehearse on Friday night and throughout the day, Saturday, then will present a public concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Hamilton High School gymnasium. There is no charge for this concert.

Music to be performed includes "American The Beautiful," "A Song of Peace," "Lift High the Cross," "African Noel," selections from "Beauty and the Beast," and "Andante Maestoso," from Gustav Holst's, "The Planets." Also featured will be seven-piece brass and percussion ensemble and a 50-voice choir.

Guest conductor for the weekend will be William H. Mathis, the director of Music and Fine Arts at the Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, Minneapolis, MN.

English handbell ringing is one of the oldest forms of sacred music. Each ringer plays at least four bells; some play eight or more. The bells range in size from I5-pound bass bells to the tiniest, few-ounce upper octaves.

A handbell concert is both visually and musically amazing. The selections to be presented at this Big Sky Handbell Festival will show off a variety of ringing techniques and rhythms. It is a unique opportunity for Bitterroot residents to hear such a large combine-coir concert.

This year's festival is hosted by the First Presbyterian Church Handbell Choir.

For more information contact Mary Wood at 821-3700.

Gardening lecture series

On Saturday, April 25, in celebration of Arbor Day, Sam’s Spade Garden Tools and Wares has asked Vern Eckstein, owner of Vern’s Landscaping, to give a free hands-on demonstration of how to properly plant a bareroot tree. Avoid the grief and failure of losing a tree due to improper planting techniques. The planting will take place at 10 a.m. in the front yard at Sam’s Spade, 111 S. Fourth Street in Hamilton, and interested participants should bring pencil, paper and perhaps a camera to this workshop. For more information call Sam’s Spade at 363-1293.

Hamilton Arbor Day celebration

The 2009 City of Hamilton Arbor Day Celebration will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 1 p.m. in Legion Park located across from City Hall at 223 S. Second Street. Mayor Jerry Steele will announce the poster contest winners and present them with their prizes. All participants will help in the planting of trees in Legion Park. Everyone is welcome to join in the festivities of the day. Prior to the activities at Legion Park there will be a Weed Pull/Clean Up at River Park from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

Stevensville Cleanup Day

To celebrate Earth Day and to demonstrate their civic pride, citizens of Stevensville will hold their annual Cleanup Day Saturday, April 25. Volunteers will gather at 9 a.m. at the Stevensville Main Street Association office, 102 Main Street, to be assigned to various work crews. Duties will include gardening, litter pickup, painting benches and tables and maintenance of drip irrigation systems.  Volunteers will be provided with a lunch at noon. Lunch will be held at Stevensville Hardware, 323 Main Street, and will be sponsored by Stevensville Hardware, the Bitterroot Star, Historic Stevensville Hotel, Stevensville Main Street Association and Stevensville Civic Club. Water will be provided by the Bitterroot Valley Living Center. In addition to the Spring Cleanup Day on April 25, the Town of Stevensville will be picking up yard debris the week of 4/20 to 4/24. If you have trimmings, prunings or other yard debris, leave in the alley or on the curb in front of your house. No plastic or garbage can be picked up. To volunteer or for more information, call Tracey Smith at 777-1102.

YMCA Riverbank Run

The Annual Missoula Family YMCA Riverbank Run will take place Saturday, April 25 in downtown Missoula. Participants may take part in the one-mile fun run, the 5K, 10K, trifecta, or school challenge. Register by April 19th at the YMCA, 3000 S. Russell St. or go to ymcamissoula.org. For more information, call the Missoula Family YMCA at 721-YMCA (9622).

UM garage sale

The University of Montana is the place to be on Saturday, April 25, for those who want to sell or buy items at the “World’s Largest Garage Sale.” The sale will be held, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the lower level of UM’s covered parking garage, located on Campus Drive near the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library. For $20 sellers get two parking spaces, each 9 feet by 18 feet, to display items for sale. Additional parking spaces may be purchased for $10 each. The semiannual event brings in hundreds of shoppers. It is a fundraiser for the UM Advocates, an organization of more than 100 members who provide volunteer labor for campus functions. Registration forms are available online at http://www.umt.edu/sa/umadv or can be picked up at The Source at the University Center. For more information call 243-4636. 

Arbor Day celebration

The 2009 City of Hamilton Arbor Day Celebration will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 1 p.m. in Legion Park located across from City Hall at 223 S. Second Street. Mayor Jerry Steele will announce the poster contest winners and present them with their prizes. All participants will help in the planting of trees in Legion Park. Prior to the celebration, there will be a Weed Pull/Cleanup at River Park from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. there will be a Weed Pull/Cleanup at River Park. Everyone is welcome.

Musical performance

Charla Bauman, guitarist and singer/songwriter, will be performing eclectic Americana on Saturday, April 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Hidden Legend Winery, Sheafman Corners, 1345 Hwy. 93 N. #5, north of Victor.

Square dance club

Boots ‘n’ Calico Square Dance Club will hold a Fiesta Theme Dance on Saturday, April 25 at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. Pre-rounds will start at 7:30 p.m. followed by the Fiesta Theme Dance. The dance level will be mainstream until 9:30 p.m. Following this will be plus to 10:00 PM. Rounds will be provided between tips. Club members will provide a variety of Fiesta treats for refreshments. Our caller for tonight will be Barry Bartlette. For further information call Dee Terrill, 961-1728, or Jeanne Burruss, 961-3468.

Accordion Jam

Five Valley Accordion Jam will be Sunday, April 26 at Poor Henry's in Clinton from 1 to 4 p.m. Tickets are $3.00 for members $4.00 for non-members. There will be guitars, banjos and accordions to dance and listen to.

Bitterroot Bids for Kids

Bitterroot Bids for Kids – to benefit the Keystone to Discovery After School and Summer Program – will be held Sunday, April 26 at the Bitterroot Brewery, Hamilton, beginning at 2 p.m. Sky Moose will provide music, with silent and live auctions. Free childcare will be available. Call 375-9999 for more information. Bid on all types of items including float trips, jewelry, eye exams, restaurant gift certificates, deep tissue massages, patio heaters, liquor baskets, artwork, Brewery basket, make-over basket (gift certificate from Bella's, manicure, facial, haircut), golf trips, and many more useful and fun items!

In 2004, the Hamilton School District was the recipient of a five-year renewable 21st Century Learning Center Grant through the Department of Education. This grant has allowed for the creation of the Keystone to Discovery After School and Summer Program. The Keystone Program introduces students to new techniques and ideas while building on the knowledge they already have and provides students with a safe, nurturing environment during those critical hours after school and summer months, while encouraging their families to become more involved in their education. At least 16 different activities are offered each week allowing participants the opportunity to demonstrate their strengths while building confidence in new skills. From fly fishing to archery, theater to architecture, Keystone offers a wide range of engaging activities taught by quality instructors. Keystone’s programs are available to all children in the Hamilton area, regardless of family income. The program serves an average of 200 students per year with the after school and summer program. Of those, over 55% qualify for free or reduced lunches because of low income levels. The program is facing the end of its five-year cycle of grant funding and is in the process of applying for a new grant that will provide for 60% of the current budget, but community support is required for the other 40%.

Chess Club

The North Valley Public Library Chess Club will hold its monthly play on Monday, April 27, at 7 p.m. at the North Valley Pubic Library community room on Main Street in Stevensville. All levels of play are welcome. For more information call Mel Leonard at 777-3851 or the Library at 777-5061.

Bitterroot College Steering Committee

The Bitterroot College Steering Committee will meet Tuesday, April 28 at 2 p.m. in the Hamilton School District Offices, 217 Daly Ave., Hamilton. The Committee will discuss: Criteria for a Student Representative on the Steering Committee; Position description and an advertisement for the Planning and Transition Director; Fall Course Offerings; Non-Credit Offerings.

The Steering Committee, comprised of higher education state officials and local stakeholders, is working together to provide local post-secondary education opportunities for the Bitterroot. The meetings are open to the public. For more information contact Patricia Meakin at 777-4421.

Darby hunter education class

A Hunter Education class is planned for Darby in May. Interested students must register on Tuesday, April 28 at 7 p.m. at the Darby School Cafeteria.

The class is limited to the first 35 students, and a student must be at least 11 years old to receive certification.  The class is free of charge and a parent or legal guardian must accompany students under 18 to register.

Classes are May 11, 12, 13, & 14 from 7-9 p.m. at the Darby School cafeteria.  Students will be required to complete some work outside of class and must attend all classes to be certified.

Any person born after January 1, 1985 must present a Hunter Education Certificate in order to purchase a hunting license in Montana.

For more information, call the Missoula Fish, Wildlife & Parks office at 542-5500.

Library storytime

Preschool Storytime will be held Wednesday, April 29 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Children’s Corner of the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. Storyteller Karen Fields will present “A Mexican Fiesta.”

Bereavement Teleconference

Marcus Daly Hospice will host the Hospice Foundation of America’s 16th Annual National Bereavement Teleconference “Diversity and End-of-Life Care.” The teleconference will be held Wednesday, April 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in conference rooms B/C, at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton. The teleconference, via web cast, will focus on ways of understanding diversity and how cultural histories, traditions and beliefs can affect end-of-life care.

Learning objectives for the 2009 teleconference include: defining diversity, the ways in which cultural diversity both complicates and facilitates end-of-live experiences, including grief and adaptation to loss, the knowledge, sensitivities and skills necessary to work with culturally diverse populations, the challenges hospice and palliative care present for culturally diverse populations and effective strategies to work with end-of-life issues with culturally diverse populations.

The teleconference is free and everyone is welcome to attend. Continuing education hours (CE’s) will be available though the Hospice Foundation of America for nurses, social workers, counselors, funeral directors, clergy, psychologists, EMS personnel, EAPs and nursing home administrators. CE’s are available online for $25 or via mail for $35. For additional information call Cathy Palmer, MFT, Marcus Daly Hospice Services at 375-4752.

Writers group

The Bitterroot Writers Group will meet on Wednesday, April 29 at 7 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. For information call 363-1670.

Horizons workshops

The Horizons program is presenting a Personality Workshop on Wednesday, April 29, taught by Dr. Jill Martz, Montana 4-H Center Director. Do you know people who always make things fun, take care of the details, research all the options or make sure everyone has a great time? Well, it's all about personality and temperaments and learning about other's preferences, values, strengths and weaknesses. Find the keys to creating a positive environment and maximizing each other's potential. This interactive session will provide keys to working with co-workers, group members, community leaders and youth. Cost: $10, please register by Monday, April 20 at the MSU/Ravalli County Extension Office, 375-6611.

A Grant Writing Workshop will be held Thursday, May 21, taught by Dr. Mike Vogel, MSU Extension Specialist. Come learn what professional grant writers do to win their proposals! This one day workshop will cover the: Hows of Successful Grant Proposal Writing; the strategies; various parts of a grant; dos and don'ts; steps to a winning proposal.

Participants are encouraged to come with ideas from your organization and bring a current proposal if you are working on a grant. The cost is $35, lunch will be provided for those with paid registration by Wednesday, May 13. Register at the MSU/Ravalli County Extension Office, 375-6611.

Want the workshop for free? Three people per workshop are needed to help set up and clean up for the event. In return, your registration for the event will be covered. This does require manual labor. Call the office, 375-6611 for more details.

Special library hours

The Bitterroot Public Library will open at 12 noon instead of 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 30, for a staff in-service program.

Business Workshop

Farmers State Bank will host “Building Success,” a free workshop for business owners, on Thursday, April 30 from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at St Francis Pastoral Life Center, 411 S. 5th Street, Hamilton.

“We feel it is vital that business owners have the latest information available in order to make informed decisions, regardless of where they bank,” said Owen Robbins, Marketing Director, Farmers State Bank. “This workshop is open to all business owners.”

Dr. Larry Swanson, Associate Director of the O’Connor Center for the Rocky Mountain West, will open the workshop with an Economic Update of conditions from global to local. Julie Foster of the RCEDA will present Tools for Business Owners; Dave Glaser of MCDC will share the Loan Programs, Business Counseling and Business Analysis Tools they offer and John Donovan of the SBA, Helena will speak on New Programs for Small Business. Following the individual presentations, the four speakers will be joined by representatives of Farmers State Bank for a panel discussion and question and answer session.

Refreshments will be served at 8:30 a.m., and the workshop will begin promptly at 9 a.m. There is no charge to attend, but preregistration is required as seating is limited. Call Tricia Kiefer at Farmers State Bank, 642-2288, by 5 pm Tuesday, April 28 for more information and to register.

Horse euthanasia service

A Final Act of Kindness Service for horses and mules is being offered on Thursday, April 30. 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.

Used Art & Jewelry Sale

The Stevensville Museum will hold its 12th annual Used Art and Jewelry Sale on Friday and Saturday, May 1 and 2 at 213 Main (formerly Stevi Gift & Thrift). May 1 hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 2 hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A pre-sale party for donors only will be held Thursday, April 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. Beverly Welling from Bev's Antiques and Carla McDonald will be conducting "Antique Roadshow-type” appraisals of small antiques and collectibles on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. The cost of the appraisals will be $3.00 per item. Donations are being accepted at the Bitterroot Star, 215 Main Street, during business hours. For information call Ronn at 777-7408 or Victoria at 777-3928.

Museum exhibit 

On May 1, a new exhibit will open at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton 

“ From Wilderness to Rails:  Montana Looks Back at the Northern Pacific Railroad” is an exploration and exhibition on the conception and evolution of the Northern Pacific Railroad in Montana, created by William Whitfield and Mike McEachearn. This exhibit runs through July 31. On May 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. there will be a grand opening gala with Whitfield and McEachearn as the keynote speakers. For more information call 363-3338.

Genealogy program

Ever wish you could trace your family heritage? Wonder where your ancestors traveled to or from? Join local expert, Judith Field, to learn how to search Census Records, Revolutionary War Pension Records and online book collections. Field is a member of the Western Montana Genealogical Society as well as a Family History consultant at the Missoula Family History Library and has been involved in genealogical research for 30 years. The program will be held in the main library from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 1. 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 the library at 777-5061.

Dance performance

Elenita Brown Dancers will present a bouquet of dance styles from Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley at a Spring Fling Dance Performance on First Friday, May 1 at the Senior Citizen Center, 100 Mission Street in Stevensville at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:45. Admission is free and donations are welcome.

AAUW Used Book Sale

The Missoula Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will hold its annual Used Book Sale from April 30 to Sunday May 3, at the Orchard Homes Country Life Club, 2537 S. 3rd St. West. Hours are Thursday, April 30, noon to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, May 1 and 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Books are $6 per bag and all proceeds will go to the Central Asia Institute to

promote AAUW member Greg Mortenson’s many humanitarian projects. The public may donate books at the following locations: The Pattee Creek Market, University Congregational Church, Rosauers, Orange Street Food Farm, Dale’s Dairy Store on Clements Rd. For larger donation pick up at your home or for drop-off directions the week of the sale, call 829-3898 or 543-5975.

Great Turning gathering

Everyone in Ravalli County is invited to come and share in a discussion on Friday, May 1 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the meeting room at First Christian Church, 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, about the changes in their lives due to the national/global economic situation. Participants will put their heads and hearts together to generate ideas on how, as a community, to grow and change so that everyone has food, shelter, clothing, health support, and meaningful work.

This is the third gathering of The Great Turning in the Bitterroot Valley which works to strengthen the community so all may thrive in the challenging years to come by creating networks committed to the health of children, families, communities and natural systems.

The Great Turning Group (a non-partisan community organization) will facilitate discussion, networking and the formation of action plans. Refreshments are provided. Call Veronica Lassen, 363-3076, for more information, or visit http://www.thegreatturning.net/.

IWW May Day celebration 

Industrial Workers of the World is organizing public demonstrations in Missoula on May 1 to draw attention to the financial meltdown and the bailout and will center around alternatives to capitalism. Beginning at 2 p.m. on the University of Montana Campus Oval on Friday May 1, participants will gather to protest the odious nature of student loan debt. There will be theatre, song and rally and from there a march will proceed to downtown Missoula where the group draw attention to larger issues of debt, job insecurity and climate change.

MWA annual gathering

Outdoor enthusiasts from throughout the state are headed to Missoula for the Montana Wilderness Association’s 2009 Annual Gathering, Friday and Saturday, May 1-2. Organizers expect 200-300 wilderness advocates and the general public to attend.   

The theme for this year’s convention, “It’s Our Future:  Keep It Wild,” is aimed at engaging young people and encouraging their involvement in the future of wilderness preservation in Montana. University of Montana students are involved in all stages of planning and presenting.    

The Friday evening kickoff includes a social hour, live auction, and entertainment provided by local bluegrass band Broken Valley Roadshow. Zootown Brew, 121 W. Broadway (across from Kinko’s), will host the opening festivities.  

Saturday’s events begin at 8:30 a.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel and feature Tom Tidwell, Regional Forester for the U.S. Forest Service Northern Region. Later that morning, Carrie Sandstedt, Field Director for Campaign for America’s Wilderness, will guide attendees through “Wilderness Advocacy 101.”

Registration is free for students with a current ID and the general public is welcome. For more information and to register online visit http://www.wildmontana.org. To join in on all or part of this wild gathering, contact Laura Clifford lclifford@wildmontana.org or call MWA at 406-443-7350.

‘Shoot for the Kids!’

The Hamilon Trap Club proudly supports local Shriners in their annual "Shoot for the Kids!" This 101 target event will be held at the Hamilton Trap Club, 167 Airport Road, on Saturday, May 2, at 9 a.m. Proceeds from sponsorships, donations and shooting fees will be used by the Shriners to help the local community. For more information call Cheryl at 546-3856 or Annie at 360-5853.

Corvallis Events Center dedication

On Saturday, May 2, Corvallis School District will hold a dedication ceremony for the recently completed Corvallis Community Events Center’s all-weather Track and Field complex. The dedication ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. Two-time Olympian and Corvallis High School graduate, Lorna Griffin, will be the keynote speaker for the dedication ceremony. Immediately following the dedication ceremony will be the Corvallis Invitational Track Meet. Everyone is welcome.

Mutt Strut

Walk those winter pounds away and help a good cause! Bring your four-legged companions and join Sapphire Animal Hospital staff and some adoptable dogs for a fun dog walk to celebrate the participants in the Bitterroot’s Biggest Loser challenge. The walk is Saturday, May 2 at 9 a.m. starting from Sapphire Animal Hospital and continuing on the bike path. There will be freebies and door prizes for all walkers and treats for your pets! In addition, Sapphire Animal Hospital will donate 1 pound of pet food to the Bitterroot Humane Society for every participating walker. Call Megan at 777-4399 for more information.

‘4-R Pets Day’

Come join the fun as Montana Companion Animal Network (MTCAN) celebrates Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month and Be Kind to Animals Week on Saturday, May 2, at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Learn the “4 R’s” for pets: Responsibility, Respect, Resolve & Resourcefulness, see all the poster contest entries by area kids and visit with organizations that can help protect your pets: Pet Protection Project/Animal Control Board, Willing Servants, AniMeals, Bitter Root Humane Association, Footloose Montana, HOPE Dogs, New Dawn MT, Five Valley Kennel Club, Feral Cat Rescue, Mobile Adoption Center, Fox Hollow Animal Project, Montana Companion Animal Network and a special guest appearance by “Jack the Bitterroot Beagle” , the star of two great family movies!

On site will be information on spay/neuter, humane education, horses, housing with pets, pet care, feral cat rescue, farm animal sanctuary, pet safety in the outdoors and see animals available for adoption. To promote National Pet ID Week pet owners can purchase *Ravalli County Licenses for dogs, Hamilton City Licenses for dogs and ID tags for dogs and cats at $4-$6. (To purchase licenses pet owners must have proof of Rabies Immunization and for discount pricing must have proof of spay/neuter.) Micro chipping for dogs and cats will also be available at a special price of just $25 which includes chip registration.

MTCAN invites all pet owners and pet lovers to take advantage of “4-R Pets Day” with free admission, great bargains, horse saddle raffle, food available and door prizes. For more information go to http://www.mtcan.org or call Mary at 642-3785.

UMC Mission Festival 

Stevensville United Methodist Church will be hosting an area Mission Festival, Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cathy Whitlach, Missionary in Residence (from Portland, OR) will share her experiences as a long time missionary in Argentina. The event will be a time to celebrate how United Methodists are in mission. It will be an opportunity to learn about The Advance, missionaries and covenant relationships, Angola project, UMCOR, VIM, Primetimers, Nomads, assemble kits for UMCOR and share together what the churches are doing in missions. Each church is asked to have a display sharing what your church is doing to raise an awareness of United Methodist missions. Lunch is provided. For questions or additional information, contact SUMC at 777-5443.  

Wellness celebration

Wellspring Women’s Vitality Center invites you to a Community Celebration of Wellness on Saturday, May 2 at Simple Yoga, 220 Main in Hamilton. Schedule: 10:30 am - Importance of Preconception Education; 11 am - Prenatal Yoga; 12:30 pm - Infant massage/ Doula Info; 2 pm - Relaxation for Birthing/Childbirth Ed Intro; 3 pm - Postpartum Ab Rehab. For more information contact Sheehan at 642-6527 or www.wellspringwomen.us.

‘Oliver!’ Kids Night

MCT Community Theatre is presenting a one-night, special performance of “Oliver!” for kids from local youth organizations on Tuesday, May 5. There will be a reception at 6 p.m. with the performance at 7 p.m. and a backstage tour following the performance at MCT Center for the Performing Arts, 425 East Broadway in Missoula.

MCT celebrates their 31st season of community theatre this May with the production “Oliver!” - the same production they opened with back in 1977. On May 5, there will be a special performance held for children who are involved with: Big Brothers Big Sisters; Missoula Youth Homes; Boys & Girls Club; Ronald McDonald House; the YWCA GUTS! program of Missoula and others.

Michael McGill, executive director of MCT explains, “Offering a ‘Kids Night’ just felt right—and we’re proud of this opportunity to team up with other outstanding non-profits that benefit children within our community.” Boys and Girls Club of Missoula Executive Director Mike Klinkhammer agrees, “The Boys and Girls Club serves many disadvantaged children who would never have an opportunity to come to an event like this otherwise.”

MCT develops theatre programs that help children build important life skills such as self-esteem and better communication skills, but the performers aren’t the only ones who benefit—the audience members also learn from their experience. During this special performance of Oliver!, children can escape to a new place for a couple hours and will benefit from watching their peers on stage.

If you would like to send a child to this performance, a donation box is set up in the MCT lobby through the end of April or you may mail your donation (suggested donation is $15 per child) to: MCT Kids Night; Attn: Jeanne Ann Wilson; 200 North Adams Street; Missoula, MT 59802. Call 728-1911 for more information.

And, if you’d like to catch a night with Oliver yourself, performances will be held May 1-3, 6-10. Call 728-PLAY weekdays or visit http://www.mctinc.org for ticket information.

Sunday Gathering

"The Sunday Gathering" is held on the first Sunday of every month at 10 a.m. at River Street Dance Theatre on 2nd and River Streets in Hamilton. Everyone is welcome. This coming month the group will meet on Sunday, May 6. The Sunday Gathering is designed for those seeking insights in a supportive spiritual community. We are not allied with any sect, denomination or political organization. Folks come together from different beliefs and practices and enjoy presentations, songs, ritual, learning and sharing. Transportation can be arranged from several communities in the Bitterroot Valley. For more information, contact Denelle Pappier at 363-1311 or dpappier@aol.com/.

UM Spring Dance Showcase

The University of Montana Department of Drama/Dance is pleased to offer its best-of-the-year Spring Dance Concert May 6-9 at 7:30 p.m. nightly in the Montana Theatre, PAR/TV Center, UM campus, showcasing nine exceptional pieces of choreography by UM Dance Program students and faculty. The works represent a wide range of styles within the contemporary dance idiom, from breathtaking athletic floor work to gesture both poignant and hilarious-to ballet that blends handstands with pirouettes. Once again, this year's Spring Dance Concert promises to be a delightful and stimulating blend of humor, athleticism, and beauty. Call the Drama/Dance Box Office at 243-4581, M-F from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to purchase tickets.

Day of Prayer observance

In Hamilton, observance of the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 7, will be from noon to 1 p.m. at Legion Park. The prayer meeting is sponsored by the Ravalli County Ministerial Association on behalf of the faith community of the Bitterroot Valley. Past events have been well attended by a cross section of Christian churches. Legion Park is across the street from City Hall. Check with your pastor or call Pastor Ed Pomelear at 363-3390 for more details.

American Legion Crab Feed

American Legion Post 94 will hold its annual King Crab Feed on Saturday, May 9 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Legion Hall on Middle Burnt Fork Road. Enjoy steak and crab, or all crab for $30 per ticket, or steak only for $25 per ticket. Dinner includes salad, baked potato, roll, dessert, and beer, wine or punch. Get your tickets early as only 150 advance tickets will be sold. For tickets call Potton Agency, 777-3626, Teslow Accounting, 777-2117, or Jerry Esmay, 777-5517.

Resource Fair

The Stevensville Community Resource Fair will be held Saturday, May 16 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Stevensville School gym. Are you caught in the crunch of this difficult economy? Do you need tools to navigate through these hard times? Do you want to learn how to interview for a job successfully? Do you want to network and meet representatives from local businesses? Do you need someone to review your resume? Do you need professional clothing for job interviews? Find these resources and more at the Resource Fair – offering job seeker skills and self-help resources – sponsored by Horizons program.

Grand American Shoot

Cowboy mounted shooters will gather in Darby to compete for prizes and cash awards at the 10th Annual Townsend Ranch Shoot, May 22-24. Free to the public, the most exciting equestrian cowboy action sport in America today brings contestants from seven states together with authentic old time cowboy costumes, six guns a’ blazin’ and champion horses competing for big prizes and the title of Townsend Ranch Champion Cowboy and Cowgirl.

Bitterroot Basketball Camps

The 25th Annual Bitterroot Basketball Mini-Camp sponsored by the Stevensville Booster Club will be held the week of June 8-10. The camps are open to girls entering grades 2-9 and boys grades 2-9. All camps will be held at the Stevensville School gyms. Cost of the camp is $30, with family rates also. Each camper will receive a 25th Silver Anniversary basketball and camp t-shirt. Forms with specific dates and times are available at the Stevensville School offices, Lone Rock School, or you can call Coach Rosin at 777-5481, ext. 120.