Wednesday, April 8, 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 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 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.

Free tax assistance

Volunteer 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.

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.

Grace Lutheran school registration

Grace Lutheran Learning Center Registration for 2009/2010 Preschool, Kindergarten and First Grade at Grace Lutheran Learning Center is now underway. Space is limited. For information contact Teresa at 363-1924 or stop by Grace Lutheran Learning Center at 275 Hattie Lane in Hamilton.

Soroptimist candy sale

A beautiful selection of See’s specialties, one and two-pound boxes decorated for spring and much more wonderful candy, is again available from the Soroptimists in their See’s Candy Mobile. The See’s Mobile will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until sold out and is located in the First Security Bank parking lot on Main and Hwy. 93 in Hamilton. Come early for best selection. Soroptimist awards, scholarships, donations and programs are made possible through the sale of See’s candy and other fund raising activities.

Communication class

A 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.

Photo exhibit

The Ernst Petersen Photo Contest Exhibit is now open at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton. The exhibit includes 250 contest entries by local amateur photographers. Awards presentation will be held April 18 at 2 p.m. The public is welcome to vote for People’s Choice awards from now until April 16. 

Teller Refuge Earth Day

The Teller will celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 18. Volunteer stewardship projects will take place from 8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. Projects will include building an aspen exclosure, houndstongue removal, landscape maintenance, bluebird box installation and Teller Trail clean up. Volunteers must sign up for projects by Friday, April 3; lunch will be provided for registered volunteers only.  

Following lunch, Vince Yannone will give an educational presentation about Montana wildlife, including live animal demonstrations. Vince is a retired biologist and educator from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks who has appeared on Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel.

The Teller is a private non-profit conservation organization, founded in 1988 by Otto Teller.  Its mission is to inspire, educate and demonstrate conservation in action.  For information or to sign up for projects, contact Lauren at The Teller office at 961-3507, or email lauren@tellerwildlife.org.  

Driver’s education class

Sign-ups are underway for the next driver’s education class which will begin approximately April 22 and end around June 10. The class is open to any student who is at least 14-1/2 years old by May 4, 2009 or older from Stevensville High School or a home school. Cost is $250. An informational meeting for SHS students will be held Tuesday, April 14 at 12:10 in room 3 of the high school. Out of district and/or home school students may register by phone. Information will then be mailed. Call John Munk, 777-5539, to sign up.

Community Food System meetings

A series of meetings on developing a community food system in the Bitterroot is being held at the Corvallis United Methodist Church, 356 Cemetery Rd., just South of Corvallis.

The second meeting, to analyze the driving and restraining forces for a vision of the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of local food, will be held Wednesday, April 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. The third meeting, to identify strategies to achieve the vision, choose priorities, develop a plan for moving forward, on Thursday, April 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. If needed, a fourth meeting will be held to write an action plan and draft a combined strategic calendar on Thursday, May 7, from 6 to 9 p.m. Everyone is welcome and refreshments will be provided. For more information contact Jill Davies, 642-3601.

Main Street Promotion Committee

The Promotion Committee of the Stevensville Main Street Association will meet Thursday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at the Main Street office, 102B Main. The group will be discussing First Friday, “Spring Fling”, Shop Local, Western Heritage Days and ideas from state and national Main Street Representatives. Willing volunteers are always welcome. For more information call 777-3773.

Homeowners series

“Veggies & Small Fruits (Start to Finish Gardening)” is the topic of the second class of the Homeowners series and will be focusing on gardening from beginning to end. The class will be held at Lakeland Feed & Supply on Thursday, April 9 from 6:30 8:30 p.m. There is no charge and private applicator credits will be available. For more information contact Lakeland Feed & Supply at 363-2334.

Bowhunter Education Classes

The 2009 Bowhunter Education class schedule is set for Ravalli County. Classes are free, and a student must be at least 11 years old to receive certification. A parent or legal guardian must accompany students under 18 to register. The schedule is as follows:

Florence: Register on the first night of class, Wednesday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m. Classes are at the Florence School Administration Building, 6:30-9 p.m., on April 8, 9 and 10. A field course is planned on Saturday, April 11 from 9 a.m. until mid-afternoon.  

Hamilton/Victor: May Class: Register on the first night of class, Tuesday, May 12 at 6 p.m. Classes are May 12 and 13 from 6-9 p.m. with a field course on Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m. until mid-afternoon. June Class: Register on the first night of class, Tuesday, June 16 at 6 p.m. Classes are June 16 and 17 from 6-9 p.m. with a field course on Saturday, June 20 from 8 a.m. until mid-afternoon. Both classes are held at the Elusive Moose Archery Center on the west side of Hwy. 93 between Victor and Hamilton.

Stevensville: Register on the first night of class, Wednesday, May 27 at 6 p.m. Classes are at Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge from 6-9:30 p.m., on May 27 and 28. A field course is planned for Saturday, May 30 from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.  

For a complete listing of west-central Montana bowhunter education classes, visit the FWP Web site, fwp.mt.gov and follow links to “Education” and “Hunter Education” or call the Missoula FWP office at 542-5500.  

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

Red Cross blood drives

April 9, Stevensville High School, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For appointment call 777-5481, ext. 0.

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

April 17, Bitterroot National Forest/Mildenberger Motors blood drive. Blood mobile will be in front of the Bitterroot National Forest office at 1801 N. 1st Street, 11 a.m to 3 p.m. For appointment call Joni at 363-7182 or Brandon at 363-4100.

April 23, Marcus Daly Hospital blood drive, 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For appointment call Gary at 375-4451.

Business Referral Group

The Bitterroot Business Referral Group, a subnetwork of the Missoula Businesswomen's Network, invites all Ravalli County business women to the monthly meeting, Thursday, April 9, held at Perkins Restaurant on U.S. 93, in Hamilton, from noon to 1 p.m.  Featured speakers this month will be Monica Lueck of Mary Kay, and Deborah Lay of Haven's Horses. Lunch is available for a nominal charge. Seating is limited. Call Patti at 375-5263 if you would like to attend, or for additional information.

Lutheran Holy Week services

Our Savior Lutheran Church of Stevensville invites all members of the community to worship at this holiest time of the Christian year. Palm Sunday, April 5, marks the arrival of Holy Week with regular service at 9 a.m. Holy Week observances begin with a Maundy Thursday service on Thursday, April 9 and celebration of Holy Communion at 7 p.m. A solemn Good Friday service will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 10.

The resurrection of the Lord will be celebrated with Holy Communion in both Easter services on April 12. The joyous day begins with a sunrise service at 6:30 a.m. Following at approximately 7:45 a.m., the traditional Easter breakfast will be cooked and served by the men of the congregation. Proceeds raised from the breakfast freewill offering will be pledged to mission projects. At about 8:45 a.m. thee will be an egg hunt for the children with Sunday school to follow. Adult Bible class meets at 9:15 a.m. The Easter festival service is scheduled for 10 a.m.

Our Savior is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road, off the Eastside Highway southeast of Stevensville.

Holy Week events 

The United Methodist-American Baptist Federated Church, 211 N. 6th Street, Hamilton, invites you to Holy Week and Easter activities. A Maundy Thursday Service with Holy Communion will be held at 7 p.m. Good Friday Tenebrae Service will be at 7 p.m. Easter Sunday worship services will be at 8:30 and 11 a.m. with Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. There will be coffee fellowship at noon. For more information call 363-2465.

Methodist Holy Week

Celebrate and reflect on the last week of Jesus’ life at Stevensville United Methodist Church. On Thursday, April 9, there will be a Maundy Thursday Communion Service at 7 p.m. A Good Friday service will be held at 7 p.m. on April 10. Easter morning, April 12, begins at 7 a.m. with a “Sonrise Service” which will be held at 372 Kootenai Creek Road (private home). Following this service, the men of the church invite you to their Easter Breakfast beginning at 8 a.m. in the fellowship hall at SUMC. The menu includes scrambled eggs, sausage, ham, bacon, pancakes and homemade rolls.  At 9:30 will be the annual Easter Egg Hunt. The traditional Easter Service begins at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to any or all of these Holy Week events. If you have any questions or need additional information, contact Kerrie in the church office at 777-5443 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Stevensville United Methodist Church is located at 216 College Street (at the corner of 3rd and College).

Women Newcomers’ Club

Bitterroot Women Newcomers' Club welcomes all visitors to its April meeting on Thursday, April 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Ravalli County Museum, 3rd & Bedford in Hamilton. Come around 10:15 a.m. for the social time prior to the general meeting. After the general meeting participants will take a tour of the Rocking L Alpaca Ranch in Victor. For more information, call Dona at 961-4269.

Green Thumbs Up

The Green Thumbs Up gardening group will meet on Thursday, April 9, from 2 to 4 p.m., in the Public Meeting Room, downstairs in the Bitterroot Public Library, 306 State Street, Hamilton. The meeting is open to all area gardeners interested in sharing their knowledge of gardening in the Bitterroot Valley. Gary Clark of Missoula will be discussing the growing of iris in Montana.

Cross Country Ski Club

The Bitterroot Cross Country Ski Club will meet Thursday, April 9 at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Main in Hamilton. The program will be "Climbing and Skiing All the Highest Peaks" with Skip Horner, well known adventurer and guide, who will share pictures and stories of his amazing expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic. Skip Horner has not only climbed the Seven Summits, he has guided clients on each of them. As important as his technical skills, he is great company in the mountains and can tell a good story. Don't miss it! The public is invited.

Good Friday Labyrinth Walk

A Good Friday Labyrinth Walk will be held Friday, April 10, anytime from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 328 Fairgrounds Road in Hamilton (across the street from the high school). Everyone is welcome and invited to come spend time in prayer using this ancient spiritual practice. The labyrinth is a circular pattern

on the floor which contains a winding pathway to the center. As you walk the path your whole body is engaged in the experience. The quiet setting offers a peaceful respite from the hectic pace of life. Informational resources will be available, as well as journaling

materials. Come and find the quiet center.

Beta Sigma Phi tulip sale

Christian movie

Come see "The Passion of the Christ" movie on Friday, April 10, 7 p.m. (childcare provided) at First Baptist Church, 402 Church Street, Stevensville.

Land Resource Clinic

A Land Resource Clinic will be held Saturday, April 11 from 8:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge near Stevensville. This clinic will give landowners tips on how to reduce weeds and improve their landscapes. A variety of topics will be covered including but not limited to cheatgrass, revegetation, and calibration. Commercial applicators from the area will also be present for landowners to speak with. Lunch will be provided and the cost of the day will be $5. Both commercial and private applicator credits will be available. To register or for more information call Melissa at 777-5842. 

Horse packing clinic

The Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen will host a packing clinic on Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at C-Max Stables, 657 Bass Lane, Corvallis. Stock will be provided for demonstration purposes, so do not bring your own stock to this workshop. The public is invited and a potluck lunch with burgers and beverages will be provided. For more information, contact Jack or Lisa Emory at 961-1363 and check the club website at www.bchmt.org/bitterroot/

Flea market

A flea market will be held Saturday, April 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. Featured will be white elephants, antiques, collectibles, arts, crafts, books, birdhouses and feeders, dishes, dolls, jewelry, tools, fishing and hunting, baked goods and miscellaneous. Lunch of sandwiches, soup and dessert will be available. Rent a table for $5. Call April at 363-0112 or 363-5181.

Easter egg hunt

American Legion Post 94 will hold its annual Easter egg hunt for Stevensville children aged 0 to 12 on Saturday, April 11 at 10:30 a.m. at Lewis & Clark Park in Stevensville. The park will be divided into sections for four age groups. Ninety dozen eggs will be hidden. Special prizes will be awarded to those who find a gold or silver egg.

Three Mile egg hunt

The Three Mile Fire District will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11 at 1 p.m. This great hunt will take place at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Ages 0 to 12 are welcome to join the fun. For more information call Colleen, 777-3710.

Easter egg hunt 

A free Easter egg hunt and a magic show with Evan Disney will be held Saturday, April 11 at 3 p.m. at Qwivals, 1625 Hwy. 93, south of Victor. For more information call 642-6426.

Musical event

“Zeppo” will perform on Saturday, April 11 from 9 p.m. to 1 p.m. at High Spirits in Florence. Zeppo is a nine-piece band made up of local veteran musicians. For more information go to www.myspace.com/zeppo where there are songs, pictures and bios of everyone. Gary Kelly owns the newly remodeled very nice High Spirits Club which was formerly the Rustic Hut.

Easter service

All are welcome for Easter brunch on Sunday, April 12, 9:30 a.m. and Easter Service at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 402 Church Street, Stevensville.

Easter service

Celebrate Christ’s Resurrection at Light of the Valley Assembly of God on Sunday, April 12 at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy music by “Reflections” and other singers from Light of the Valley. “Reflection” is a singing group that has been together for just over one year. They were featured last December in the Stevensville Community Christmas Concert at the high school. You are sure to enjoy the vibrant voices of this close harmony upbeat group. The Easter message by Pastor Art Huwe will be “A Living Hope Through Christ’s Resurrection.” There will be the usual exciting Easter egg hunt for all the children following the message. A breakfast will be served from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Donations will be accepted for the ongoing Romanian mission. Light of the Valley is located at 103 N. Kootenai Creek Road, Stevensville; phone 777-5859.

National Library Week

National Library Week is April 12-18. At the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton, fines will be forgiven in exchange for donations of non-perishable food items for Haven House. Toddler Story Time will be “One, Two” with Sally Blevins on Friday from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. in the west meeting room. An after-school Pizza Party will be held Thursday, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the main floor. Friends of the Bitterroot Public Library will be serving coffee and tea daily until 3 p.m. Used books will be available for $1 each (right side of front door) and a magazine exchange will be held in the outside gazebo.

SalsaGroove/Zumba Dance Workout

SalsaGroove/Zumba Dance Workout classes with Kimberlee Carlson emphasize rhythm, core work, low impact aerobics, choreography and great music. No partner necessary, beginners welcome! Strengthen and tone your body while learning to dance basic Latin rhythms April 13 through June 8 at Sapphire Dance, 217 Main Street

Stevensville. Classes are Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Fridays from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Cost is $7 per class or $42 for the series. First class is $5. Call or email for details: kimberlee.carlson@gmail.com; 777-2579.

Feldenkrais movement classes

Feldenkrais Awareness through Movement classes will be held Mondays, April 13-June 8 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Yoga in the Root Studio, 4071 Eastside Hwy., Stevensville. If you are trying to maintain personal fitness goals, an athlete wanting to improve your game or anyone recovering from an injury or dealing with chronic pain, Awareness Through Movement lessons will attempt to make you aware of your habitual neuromuscular patterns and rigidities and to expand options for new ways of moving while increasing sensitivity and improving efficiency. Learn to move with greater ease and agility while increasing range of motion and balance. For more information contact Yoga in the Root Studio or Kimberlee Carlson, 777-2579.

Human rights presentation

Nidia Castellanos is a single mother of three children who is risking her life to defend human rights in Colombia. She will share her experiences in a presentation, “Women Resisting War in Colombia,” on Monday, April 13 at 7 p.m. in the Hamilton Library at 306 State St.

“This will be my first time in the United States and I’m really looking forward to visiting Montana,” said Castellanos. “I live in a beautiful state in Colombia, called Arauca, and I’ve heard that Montana is also spectacular. Unfortunately, because of the war, we’re not able to enjoy the beauty of our state like you’re able to do in Montana.”

Castellanos is the secretary general of the Arauca Peasant Association (ACA) which promotes organic agriculture and defends the rights of its members and their families. ACA has been severely repressed by the Colombian government and has also been attacked by the guerrillas.

Castellanos will be accompanied by Scott Nicholson, a former Montana resident who has been in Arauca since July 2006 documenting the human rights situation in the region. The presentation will include some of his photos of Arauca.

This event is sponsored by the Bitterroot Human Rights Alliance, Montana Human Rights Network and Community Action for Justice in the Americas.  

Used Outdoor Gear Sale 

The Used Outdoor Gear Sale will take place Tuesday, April 14, at the University of Montana. The sale is held each spring and fall semester and is a fundraiser for UM’s Outdoor Program. It is open to the public. Those who want to sell gear can bring it to the University Center between 7 and 11 a.m. The UM Outdoor Program collects 15 percent of the sale price. The sale runs from noon to 5 p.m. in the University Center. There is no charge for admission. Unsold gear can be picked up between 5 and 7 p.m. For more information, call the Outdoor Program at 406-243-5172 or e-mail campusrec@mso.umt.edu.

Hamilton Players board meeting

The Hamilton Players Board of Directors will meet on Tuesday, April 14, at 7 p.m. at 252 Main Street, Hamilton. The agenda is posted in advance at the Hamilton Playhouse, 100 Ricketts Road, and available online at www.hamiltonplayers.com. For more information, call the Hamilton Playhouse at 375-9050.

Stevi school board

The regular meeting of the Stevensville School Board of Trustees will be Tuesday, April 14 at 7 p.m. in the Stevensville High School Learning Center.

Veterans affairs officer to visit

Len 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, April 14 at the Stevensville Town Council Chambers from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and at the Hamilton Job Service Office from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., and also on Tuesday, April 21 at the Hamilton Job Service Office from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

St. Mary’s Mission opening ceremony

Historic St. Mary’s Mission will host the 2009 Opening Day Celebration on Wednesday April 15 with services in the historic Chapel at 10 a.m. A flag raising ceremony will be conducted by the Stevensville FFA Chapter at 11 a.m. followed with refreshments. Guided tours for the new season begin at 11:30 p.m. A grant award from the Indian Education for All program has allowed acquisition of historical photographs and expanded exhibits. Learn more about the Bitter Root Salish and the site “Where Montana Began” 48 years before Montana became a state. For more information call 777-5734.

TEA Party 

Citizens in Ravalli County are organizing a TEA Party rally at the corners of 93 and Main, Hamilton, on Wednesday, April 15 at noon, to let government representatives know “we are Taxed Enough Already.” TEA Party is part of a national movement to protest the spending of trillions of dollars which will leave our great-grandchildren a debt they must pay. Over 1,500 cities are hosting TEA parties. Stevensville's Tea Party will begin at 5 p.m. For information, call 777-0263 (leave message and phone number). Everyone is welcome. 

Electric fencing workshop

Attend a workshop in Missoula or Hamilton in April to learn how to use electric fencing to prevent wildlife from accessing attractants such as gardens, haystacks, fruit trees, chicken coops, beehives and livestock.  

A Missoula workshop is planned for Wednesday, April 15 beginning at 6 p.m. at Quality Supply, 2801 W. Broadway. A Hamilton workshop is planned for Thursday, April 16 at 2 p.m. at Quality Supply, located along Highway 93, just south of town. The workshops are free of charge and open to the public.

Workshop participants will learn how to use electric fencing to keep deer and elk out of gardens and haystacks and how fencing can help secure beehives, chicken coops, garbage, and fruit trees from bears. Participants will also learn how electric fencing can help to keep dogs, coyotes and wolves away from livestock and how it helps to keep horses, livestock, goats and other animals secure at home and in the backcountry.

The program is presented by Larry Feight of High Country Ag Marketing in cooperation with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), the Living with Wildlife Foundation and Quality Supply.

Attendees can view fencing displays, and presenters will be available following the workshop to address questions about products and fencing techniques. For more information, contact Quality Supply in Missoula at 549-2355, in Hamilton at 363-7644, or FWP at 406-542-5500.

FWP Commission

Montana’s Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will meet April 16 at the FWP Helena Headquarters, 1420 East 6th Ave, beginning at 8:30 a.m. At a work session the day before, April 15 at 4 p.m., the FWP Commission will discuss mountain lions. Commissioners will make final decisions on appointments to the Glendive Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture Paddlefish Advisory Committee; no-wake zones on Echo Lake near Big Fork; and a grazing lease agreement.

Up for tentative approval are the commercial fishing regulations on Canyon Ferry Reservoir and Lake Helena; the tentative 2009 lion quotas; the tentative 2009 moose, sheep and goat quotas outside the biennial quota ranges; and the tentative 2010 moose, sheep, goat, deer and elk license auction rules.

The commission will consider moving ahead on the lease of office space and a visitor center for state parks in Lolo and acquisition of a fishing access site on the Shields River.

The FWP Commission will also discuss the roles and responsibilities of FWP in implementing the brucellosis action plan.

Late in the morning there will be an opportunity for the public to address other FWP issues not on the agenda.

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 HYPERLINK "http://www.fwp.mt.gov/" fwp.mt.gov under the heading FWP Commission.

Spring Festival of Music

The Stevensville School Music Association with the Stevensville High School choirs and bands will be hosting a Spring Festival of Music on Thursday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. in the Stevensville School multi-purpose room. The choir and bands will perform the musical numbers they are taking to district music festival. A dessert buffet will complete the evening. The cost is $5.00 per person.

Back Country Horsemen

Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen host their monthly meeting on Thursday, April 16, at the Corvallis School Cafeteria on Eastside Highway in Corvallis. A potluck dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. and the general meeting starts about 7 p.m. The program will be a presentation of the group's 2008 activities. Guests are welcome and for more information, call Karen at 961-0101 or go to the club's website at www.bchmt.org/bitterroot/

Theology presentation

Dr. Kevin Horton, DVM, will give two different presentations on theories of origin on April 17 and 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. each evening at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center. Dr. Horton, a retired veterinarian, is pastor at Crossroads Christian Fellowship near Corvallis. His science education along with his theology studies allow him to bring a unique view to the studies of origins. His talk is entitled “Life & Catastrophe” and will be a critique of the current understanding of the origin of life and the age of our planet. Friday’s presentation will focus on “Mount St. Helens, Glacial Lake, Missoula Flood… Challenge to Geology” and Saturday’s presentation will focus on “Evolution & The Origin of Information.”

Corvallis pancake breakfast

Corvallis American Legion Post 91 will hold a pancake breakfast and fundraiser on Saturday, April 18 from 8 to 11 a.m. There will be a silent auction followed by the Griz Scrimmage. You can also meet the Grand Marshal of the Memorial Day parade. The event will be held at the Corvallis High School cafeteria on Eastside Highway next to REA. For more information call Dick at 406-888-4660.

Pancake breakfast

A public pancake breakfast will be held Saturday, April 18 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. Featured will be pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, juice and coffee. Cost is $4 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under. Call 363-5181 for more info.

Grizzly football scrimmage

A University of Montana Grizzly Spring Football Scrimmage will be held Saturday, April 18 at 1 p.m. at the Corvallis Community Event Center at corner of Eastside Highway and Brothers Way Tailgate beginning at 11 a.m. A post scrimmage party will be held in downtown Corvallis. Tickets are available at all Ravalli County Bank Branches and The Edge in Hamilton.

School Readiness Social

In recognition of the National Week of the Young Child (April 19-25), the Ravalli County Chapter of the Montana Association for the Education of Young Children (RCMtAEYC) invites Ravalli County to come together to support quality early care and education for children in our communities.

To kick off the Week of the Young Child, RCMtAEYC is sponsoring a School Readiness Social. The School Readiness Social will be held on Monday, April 20 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Ravalli Head Start’s Conference Room, 81 Kurtz Lane, Hamilton.

“The primary goal of the School Readiness Social is to bring early childhood professionals together to build awareness of what’s available in Ravalli County for early care and education services.” “This event supports RCMtAEYC’s mission to promote high quality early education and care for young children in Ravalli County” states Kristin Segall, President of RCMtAEYC. “Available, high quality early childhood programs are essential for young children and their families, and bring lasting benefits to our community.”

Any individual working on behalf of children birth through age eight is invited to attend this opportunity to ‘Bring Ravalli County Together for Children’. Call Kristin Segall at 363.1217, ext. 11 for more information.

‘Peace Teaching’

Sample a Peace Teaching, offering an avenue to a balanced view and clarity, Monday, April 20, at 2 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. at Yoga in the Root, 4071 Eastside Highway, suite B. Be introduced to the grassroots organization, Great Freedom, networking across the globe to create unity, ease, and peace through powerful teachings provided on donation. Discover the solution to all problems, innate to every human being. Visit greatfreedom.org or contact Jill Hughes at 370-9252.

Brain Injury Support Group

The Missoula Brain Injury Support Group will meet Monday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Fireside Sandwich & Pizza Shop on Hwy. 93 at the Stevensville Junction for a social chat and fun. All TBI survivors and caregivers from Hamilton, Missoula and surrounding area are invited. For more information call Kala Conway at 721-3000, ext. 2155 or Jim Mickelson, 728-9117.

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.

Steam boiler workshop

MSU-Northern Extended University is offering a five-day workshop to prepare people to take the state examination for low-pressure boiler operator’s license. The workshop is designed for people without boiler operator’s licenses who work in physical plants.

The workshop, “Low Pressure Steam Boilers and Systems,” will be offered Monday through Friday, April 27-May 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the O’Haire Motor Inn, 17 7th Street South, Great Falls. Bill Fisher, Certified 3rd Class Boiler Operator and Certified Water Operator from Missoula, is the instructor.

The cost of the workshop is $175 plus $50 for the textbook. Participants must pre-register by April 20. Enrollment is limited to the first 20 participants.  For further information, please phone MSU-Northern Extended University toll free at 1-800-662-6132, extension 3730 or 406-265-3730.

Compassionate Communication Workshop

A Compassionate Communication Workshop will be held April 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. and 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, 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 (aka 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 the basics will be covered and Saturday will be a time of for 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.

A $40 sliding scale fee is requested at the door, with no one turned away for inability to pay the full amount. The workshop is based on the work of Marshall B. Rosenberg, Ph.D, 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.

Stevi 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 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.

In addition to the Spring Clean Up 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 will be picked up. Stevensville Main Street Association is located at 102 Main Street. 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 HYPERLINK "http://www.umt.edu/sa/umadv" 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.

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.

‘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 HYPERLINK "http://www.mtcan.org" www.mtcan.org or call Mary at 642-3785.

Mission Festival Coming Soon!

Stevensville UMC 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 your church is 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. For more information, contact SUMC at 777-5443.  

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. Tickets go on sale April 13 at 9 a.m. Call 728-PLAY weekdays or visit http://www.mctinc.org.

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.