"How to get a customer in 120 seconds and keep them" is the topic of the fourth in a year-long series of community seminars hosted by the Stevensville Main Street Association. This month's seminar will be held on Monday, May 22 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Main Street office, 102B Main St.

Guest speakers are Terri Perkins and Tammie Mart from Valley Drug & Variety. The seminar will focus on the importance of customer service. The seminar will address greeting the customer, their transaction and goodbye, body language and tone of voice. The information learned in the seminar is for life in general and will be of value to individuals and businesses who would like their employees to attend at no charge. Reservations for the seminar are suggested (but not required) and may be made by calling the Main Street office at 777-3773.

Upcoming seminars are scheduled for the fourth Monday of each month and will include "Get Organized," "Insurance," "Housing Options," update to the "Budget" class held in February, "Good Debt-Bad Debt," and "Looking at 2007, A New Year."

Formally instituted in 2000, Stevensville Main Street Association is one of the first authentic Main Street programs in Montana. The organization's focus is to preserve and promote the historical aspects of Stevensville and create a sustainable economic climate that will meet the wants and needs of local citizens. The organization's mission also includes providing educational materials, coordinating projects and activities for Stevensville organizations, to be a source of information to visitors, and to lessen the burdens of local government.

A few of the many community-wide functions implemented by the Stevensville Main Street Association are the highly successful First Friday Event, Christmas Gift Fair, Western Heritage Days and Art Show, and the Native American Art Show.

Main Street committees include Organization, Economic Restructuring, Design, Promotion, and Stevensville Community Plan. For more information about the Main Street organization, to volunteer or to join the Main Street Association, call 777-3773.

Museum Sunday Series

Rob Collier will describe "A First Encounter for Western Tribes" at the Sunday Series program, May 21, at the Ravalli County Museum.

Even though the tribes west of the Rocky Mountains had heard of white men, they had no idea what they were really like, and little could they imagine how this first meeting would change their lives forever.

Collier is the Native American Program Coordinator for Travelers' Rest Park in Lolo, and has been working with Indian Education for the past 35 years. He is organizing a program that will bring Indian people together to tell their story of life here before Lewis and Clark, when they visited and after they left. He is also involved with teachers' workshops and other programs to share a Native perspective of "Travelers' Rest" and western Montana.

Of Wyam, Walla Walla and Nez Perce descent, Collier was the Indian Education curriculum developer for the Coos, Curry, Lane, and Douglas County Educational Service District for 11 years. He also has worked with the Museum of the Rockies at MSU.

"His rich knowledge of the Western tribes, as well as Lewis and Clark, plus his experience with Native American culture will give us all a better understanding of our local history," states Helen Ann Bibler, Executive Director of the Museum. "We are fortunate to have him share his insights and expertise on these topics."

The Sunday Series is held at the Ravalli County Museum, on S. 3rd and Bedford in Hamilton. The museum is open on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. with the program at 2 p.m. Admission is free for all programs to members of the Museum. For visitors, admission is $3.00 for adults, $5.00 a couple, and $1.00 for students.

Contact rcmuseum@cybernet1.com, or call 363-3338 Thursday through Monday for more information.

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.

AARP driving class

AARP is presenting its driver safety program at Marcus Daly Hospital on May 18 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You must attend both days. The fee is $10.00 and preregistration is required. Contact Jones Korman Insurance Agency at 363-6583 for registration information. The next day class is scheduled on June 15 and 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There is no written test. Montana mandates an insurance discount for qualified graduates.

Be Active Bitterroot passport activity

A "Weeds to Wildflowers Walk" sponsored by the Bitterroot National Forest will be held Saturday, May 20, from 10 to 12 noon. Meet at Bass Creek Day Use Area horse-trailer parking site. (From Stevensville, drive north five miles on Highway 93 to the Bass Creek Road. Turn west at the sign and drive 2.5 miles to the Charles Waters Campground entrance intersection. Turn right and drive 1/4 mile along the dirt road to the Bass Creek Day Use parking area.)

Enjoy walking on the Bitterroot National Forest with Forest Botanist Linda Pietarinen to view spring flowers in the ponderosa pine forest. This is an easy, level walk along a maintained forest trail. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Remember it is tick season! Contact Linda Pietarinen, 363-7172, for more information about the walk.

Be Active Bitterroot Passport Booklets with a list of all 27 activities offered from April through December, can be picked up at all Bitterroot National Forest Offices. For additional information go to http://fs.fed.us/r1/bitterroot/ and click on the "Get Fit With US-Be Active Bitterroot Passport to Fun" heading on left margin to find out more about the Passport program and participation awards.

Summer Aviation Academy

Imagine a life soaring through the air, sightseeing majestic landscapes and having the knowledge to surviving harsh wilderness conditions. Imagine the life of an aviator.

The Montana Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division, the Federal Aviation Administration and Helena College of Technology are sponsoring a four-day aviation career program for sophomore, junior and senior Montana high school students interested in aviation.

The program will start in Helena and includes a tour of Missoula's Smoke Jumper base and a wilderness survival field trip to Stemple Pass, near Lincoln. The academy begins Tuesday, August 8 at 9 a.m. and will conclude after a flight day ceremony Friday afternoon, August 12. MDT will provide accommodating travel for each field trip.

"The Governor and I encourage kids to attend this exciting camp," said First Lady Nancy Schweitzer. "It will give students an opportunity to discover new frontiers and learn about Montana from an atmospheric and aeronautic point of view."

The Governor and First Lady Math and Science Initiative encourages students in Montana to discover the wonders of Montana. Students from across the state will vie for the opportunity to be one of 15 students selected for the program on a first come basis. The program costs $100 and $50 scholarships are available for students who submit a one-page essay on their aviation interests along with the application.

"I encourage any student with an interest in aviation to attend," said Jeanne MacPherson, MDT's aeronautics safety and education bureau chief. "Something interesting is always happening."

Application flyers have been distributed to each Montana high school and are currently available to students. For more information, contact Jeanne MacPherson at (406) 444-2506. For the hearing impaired, the TTY number is (406) 444-7696 or 1-800-335-7592 or Montana Relay at 711.

Wilderness volunteer opportunity

Spend time in Montana's great wilderness areas! Learn weed mapping, GPS skills, and recreation impacts inventory. This summer volunteers are needed to help Wilderness Institute staff monitor the impact of weeds and recreation in some of Montana's most outstanding Wilderness areas. Join experienced leaders for 1-5 day wilderness trips that will contribute critical information to the understanding and management of our local wildlands. Dinners and transportation from Missoula are provided. Transportation from the Bitterroot Valley may be arranged. Volunteers receive training in monitoring work, t-shirts, and prizes. Contact the Wilderness Institute at 243-5361, wi@forestry.umt.edu, or www.forestry.umt.edu/wi for more information.

July 7, Rattlesnake Wilderness - Rattlesnake Pedal and Pull
July 8-10, Rattlesnake Wilderness - Boulder Lake Loop
July 14-16, Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness - East Fork Bitterroot River
August 4-6, Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness - TBA
August 11-13, Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness - Pintler Creek Loop
August 16-20, Rattlesnake Wilderness - Rattlesnake Lakes

Housed within the University of Montana's College of Forestry and Conservation, the Wilderness Institute was established in 1975 to further the understanding of wilderness and its stewardship through education, research and service.

Head Start applications being accepted

Ravalli Head Start is enrolling eligible 3-5 year olds for fall 2006 preschool classes at Lone Rock and in Hamilton. The first selection meeting will be held May 31, so it is an advantage to complete the application process by May 30. Families with income at or below U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines are encouraged to apply. Ten percent of Head Start enrollment must be children with diagnosed delays or disabilities, and up to 10% of enrollment may be families who are over-income. In order to serve families who can most benefit from the program, enrollment is based on a priority process. RHS continues open enrollment throughout the year as spaces are available. Call Jan at 363-1217, ext. 14, for an application or more information.

Hamilton PTA Fun Run

The whole community is invited to the First Annual PTA FUNRUN! on Saturday, June 10, starting at Canyon Hideaway at Claudia Driscoll Park. The race will include a 1-mile around the park and a 5k and 10k. Prizes will be awarded to first through third places for both men and women in the 5k and 10k.

Entry fees are $15.00 for preregistered adult runners, $20.00 June 1-June 9 and on race day, $10.00 for senior citizens and child runners (no matter when you register). Registration forms and maps are available at Big Sky Eye Care, First Avenue Salon, Iron Horse Athletic Club, Hamilton school offices and the school administration office on Daly Avenue.

All runners receive a t-shirt featuring artwork from a Hamilton High School student. Packet pick up is Friday, June 9 at Claudia Driscoll Park from 4 to 7 p.m. and at check-in on race day. For more information call Ellen Ryter, FUNRUN! chair, at 363-2160.

The Hamilton PTA mission is to provide compassionate support and services to Hamilton Schools, families and the community; to reach out and be a continually growing resource. By creating partnerships and working together with other parents and community members, the PTA is able to offer activities such as Family Nights, Safety Expo, Healthy Choices Lunches, support for school field trips, a Community Barbecue to promote community togetherness, the FUNRUN! to promote healthy behaviors and exercise, and much, much more. For more information visit the web site at www.hsd3.org and click on the PTA link.

Child care provider training

A beginning level course for child care providers entitled "Grants, Merit Pay & the Star System" will be held Thursday, May 25 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Hamilton. Are you a new provider looking for information on the Star Program or tiered reimbursement? Are you a seasoned provider needing information about grants? Come and learn which financial opportunities are available. Cost is $7.50.

Child Care Resources will provide a beginning level course on "Infant, Child & Adult CPR & First Aid Fundamentals" on Saturday, May 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Missoula. This class meets the requirements for child care licensing and registration in Montana. Cost is $35.

Preregister by visiting the CCR website at www.childcareresources.org or by calling 728-6446.

KMA Community Summit

The Kids Management Authority (KMA) will hold a Community Summit on Tuesday, May 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 223 S. 2nd (Bedford Building) in Hamilton. Do you have a child with a serious emotional disturbance? Are you a professional who works with these youth? Ravalli County Kids Management Authority is a group of public and private professionals who serve these youth. The goals of this group include coordinated, community based care and working in partnership with families. Learn how this team might assist children and families. There is no charge to attend, but early registration is recommended by calling 532-9140.

Video showing

"The Corporation" will be the featured video presented on Wednesday, May 17 at 7 p.m. in the Bitterroot Public Library meeting room. This documentary explores the inner workings, history and power of modern multinational corporations. "The Corporation" is the final video in a series sponsored by Sustainable Living Systems. For more information, check the "Events" page at www.sustainablelivingsystems.org, call 961-4419, or e-mail info@sustainablelivingsystems.org.

Armed Forces Day celebration

Armed Forces Day will be celebrated in Stevensville on Saturday, May 20, with the Stevensville Garden Club and the American Legion Post 94 unveiling and dedicating a Blue Star Memorial in the newly renovated Veterans Park on N. Main Street at "High Noon." Invitations have been mailed to "Montana movers and shakers" both in and out of state. Traffic on Main Street will be rerouted from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in order for guests to have easy access to the Veterans Park. The event will focus on the community's dedication to the veterans and those who are presently serving in the Armed Forces. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

A Cappella Concert

The Montana A Cappella Society will perform a "Meet the Singers" concert on Saturday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at the new Corvallis United Methodist Church. The concert will feature choral music selections demonstrating the Society's unique signature sound and diverse repertoire of "popular" music ranging from Renaissance to jazz. Bring your friends, enjoy the music and stay to meet members of the group after the performance. This event is free and refreshments will be available. The church is located at the intersection of Eastside Highway and Cemetery Road in Corvallis. For more information call 363-5778.

Weed Roundup at Metcalf Refuge

Head 'em up and move 'em out! It's time to roundup those pesky noxious weeds on the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge in Stevensville. On Saturday, May 20 at 9:30 a.m. "weed wranglers� from around the valley are encouraged to come out and pull as many weeds as they can for a share of the prizes.

The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination for people seeking recreation or wildlife viewing. The refuge hosts over 150,000 visitors per year. The high number of visitors makes the refuge an easy target for the spread of weeds such as spotted knapweed and houndstongue.

This event will feature free t-shirts, lunch and prizes for you and your family. Bring your own gloves, favorite tool, sunscreen, bug repellent and be ready for some healthy competition. Preregistration is encouraged for lunch and t-shirts. You can register by calling the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge at 777-5552. Local experts will be on hand to talk about the problem of weeds at the refuge, weed identification and what you can do to help.

A free lunch will be served at noon for all "weed wranglers." After lunch prizes will be awarded to the: Oldest & Youngest Wranglers, Farthest Traveled, Plant with the Longest Root, Tallest Plant, Most Pounds of Knapweed/Houndstongue. There will also be a group challenge for businesses and organizations to bring the largest group. Prizes will be awarded for the largest group and the group to pull the most weeds.

Some fabulous prizes that will be awarded are: Nikon Binoculars, Princeton Tec headlamp, Brunton compass, kids fishing pole, naturalist field guides, flower press, children's sleeping bag, Kelty two-person tent and much more. All young wranglers will receive prizes for participating.

The Ravalli County Weed Education Board, Ravalli County Extension Service, and Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge are bringing this event to you. Come and join in the fun and make a difference on your public lands!

Women's luncheon

A Can of Worms, LLC, proudly announces it has raised $12,000 in net proceeds from the "Big Sky Women, Our Ladies of Montana" 2005-2006 Pink Ribbon Calendar. The proceeds will be presented to the Montana Breast and Cervical Health Program (MBCHP), a statewide agency that assists women in early detection screening for breast cancer, at a luncheon hosted by the Missoula Office of MBCHP on Wednesday, May 24, at the Christian Life Center, 3801 Russell in Missoula. At the upcoming luncheon, A Can of Worms, LLC, and many of the models from the "Big Sky Women, Our Ladies of Montana" calendar, a local project that helped spread the word on the importance of early detection and screening in the fight against breast cancer, will present calendar proceeds to Sue Miller and Karan Kunz from the state office of the MBCHP. Proceeds will be earmarked for Montana women who are not currently covered by the program. Specifically the funds will be used statewide to provide screening for women in their 40's. The luncheon event is free and open to the public. To reserve your seat contact MBCHP Site Coordinator Krista Hellem at 258-4167 by Friday, May 19.

Hamilton Gun Show

The 13th Annual Hamilton Gun Show will be held Friday, June 2 through Sunday, June 4 at the Hamilton Senior Center on the corner of N. 4th and Adirondac. Admission is $3.00 for all three days. Children with parents are admitted free.

Democratic Mule Team

The Ravalli Democratic Mule Team will meet on Friday, May 19, in Hamilton, at the Banque Club/Exchange, at a noon luncheon at 12 pm. The Study Commission for County Government will present their findings and recommendations as the program. This process will guide them toward their final report. Democratic Candidates will be introduced, and plans announced for summer activities. To reserve a seat, call Bill Knox at 961-6945.

Farmers Union summer camps

"Driving the Future" provides the theme for the Montana Farmers Union's summer camps that focus on building future leaders and forging lasting friendships. Renewable fuels from the farm will be featured in age appropriate activities.

The camps provide lots of time for campfires, dances, art and crafts, laughter, team building, nature hikes, and sports. Cooperative teamwork and leadership skills influence all camp activities.

Three of the overnight camps are held at the MFU camp at Arrowpeak, located in the heart of the Highwood Mountains, approximately 40 miles east of Great Falls. A fourth camp is coordinated by the Hill County Farmers Union and is held at the Kiwanis Camp south of Havre.

In addition, Montana Farmers Union is offering 42 free statewide day camps. The camps run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and campers are asked to bring a sack lunch. The camps include a day packed with activities including games, workshops, crafts and songs.

Now is the time to reserve a child's place at MFU summer camp. Senior Leadership Camp is for ages 15-19, Teen Leadership Camp is for ages 13-15, and Junior Leadership Camp is for ages 8-12. Hill County Camp is for ages 8-14. Call 1-800-234-4071 or visit www.montanafarmersunion.com for more information.

North Valley Pachyderm Club

Plan now to attend North Valley Pachyderm Club's Friday, May 19 meeting to be held at the Frontier Cafe, Hwy. 93, Stevensville. The meeting will start at 12 noon. Special guests are Amy and Nicole Veltkamp sharing trip experiences to Walter Reed Memorial Hospital to present quilts to injured U.S. servicemen. Featured speakers will be candidates for Justice of the Peach including incumbent Robin Clute, Jay Printz, and Jake Weitzel. Members and their guests are welcome.

Library Lunch and Learn program

If you are a senior citizen, know one, or are going to be one in the near future, the Friends of the North Valley Library invite you to attend their Lunch and Learn program on Thursday, May 25, in the library's Community Room at 12 noon. The guest speaker will be Paul Travitz, Director of the Council on Aging in Ravalli County. You may be surprised to discover just how many free valuable services are available to seniors. Come join others for a most informative and enjoyable meeting. Bring your lunch if you wish. Coffee, tea and cookies will be provided. See you there!

Teens sought for anti-tobacco program

The Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program is currently seeking Montana middle and high school students, ages 13-18, to participate in the reACT! Against Corporate Tobacco summit to be held June 19-22 at MSU-Bozeman. The summit will bring together 175 teen participants to be educated in the areas of media, branding, tobacco prevention, art and activism, and use that information to create a statewide movement of teens against tobacco. Participation in the summit is free and includes meals and accommodations at MSU, as well as bus transportation. To register or get more information visit www.umt.edu/cc/cps/YouthSummit.htm or call Katy Pezzimenti, MTUPP Youth Advocacy Coordinator, at 406-444-7896.

County begins right-of-way clearing

Starting this week and continuing over the next several months, the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department will be performing roadside mowing and right-of-way clearing on county roadways throughout the Bitterroot Valley. Roadway users are encouraged to use caution and maintain safe distances when encountering the large, slow-moving tractor-mowers. Following too closely may result in damage to vehicles or personal injury from airborne debris that can be produced during the mowing process.

County operators will be focused on cutting roadside vegetation that may restrict sight distances and that may compromise effective roadway drainage. Additionally, operators will work to reduce vegetation within the safety clear-zone adjacent to the roadway. Manual removal of identified hazard trees will be performed later in the year.

For further information on the program, contact the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department at 244 Fairgrounds Road in Hamilton or by phone at 363-2733.

North Valley Chess Club

The North Valley Public Library Chess Club will hold its monthly play on Monday, May 22 at 7 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library community room on Main Street in Stevensville. All levels of play are welcome. For more information call Ian Root, 777-5587.

Pancake breakfast

A pancake breakfast for the public will be held Saturday, May 20 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. The menu will be pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, juice, coffee and more. Cost is $4 for adults, $2 for children 12 and under. Take the family to breakfast!

Darby Schools benefit scheduled

The Darby Schools Excellence Fund (DSEF) was created in September of 2004 to enhance academic and extracurricular opportunities for all Darby students - from kindergarten through adult education. The DSEF hopes to bring meaning and substance to the fundraising process by strengthening the ties between students and community. DSEF raises funds through student service projects, an annual mailing, and community events. Upcoming events in 2006 include: Summer Benefit Dinner & Auction, June 17, Rennaker Ranch; Fall Student Service Day, October 11; and Winter Holiday Concert, November 25. For more information on contributing to DSEF, attending functions, donating auction items, and/or volunteering during events, call Deborah Rogala at 821-3252.

Any student group, parent group, class, teacher, administrator, or school staff member may apply to the fund by completing a grant application. Applications are reviewed and funding is awarded biannually during the school year. Awards are based on recommendations made by the DSEF Advisory Board, which are, in turn, approved or amended by the Darby School Board. DSEF funds are administered and managed by the Darby Public Schools, allowing all DSEF donations to be fully tax-deductible as charitable contributions to a tax-exempt organization.

During the 2005-06 school year, DSEF raised over $9,000 in funds from events and contributions, and awarded over $7,500 in support to the following projects/programs:

1. 3rd grade - guided reading program.
2. Advanced Biology Class - Yellowstone field trip
3. Darby Elementary Foreign Language Program - purchase of Muzzy curriculum
4. Darby Elementary Music Project - instruments
5. DHS Art Department - ceramic kiln
6. Darby Track & Field Program - high jump pit
7. Darby JH Math Department - Smart Board equipment
8. Sophomore HOBY Scholars - seminar fees
9. Football Athletes - fee support for Class B All Star Game admission fee
10. Kindergarten - reading software program
11. 3rd grade - Darby Wall Map
12. 1st grade - book bag packages
13. 2nd grade - CD/DVD burner
14. Darby Youth Legislature - fee support for state seminar
15. Darby Biological Weed Control Program - fee support for student travel to state weed grant hearings
16. DHS Band - ensemble playing stand
17. Darby Business Professionals of America (BPA) - fee support for student travel to National BPA Conference in Orlando, Florida
18. Darby Parent Teacher Association (PTA) - cost of printing the First Annual Report of the Darby Public Schools.

Victor School plant sale

The Victor Garden Club and the Victor School horticulture class are continuing their annual plant sale at the Victor School greenhouse at 3rd and Broadway in Victor. A great selection of annuals, vegetables and hanging baskets will be available for purchase throughout the month of May during the following hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds help support the Victor Park and the Victor School greenhouse.

Florence School spring concert

The Florence-Carlton 5th Grade and High School Bands and the HS Jazz Band will present their last concert of the season on Tuesday, May 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the New Gym. Come and enjoy some unique and compelling music that will be full of surprises!

Astronomy Club

Come explore the universe! If you can read, then you are old enough to start learning about space and astronomy. And if you are still alive, then you�re not too old to take up stargazing. The Astronomy Club will meet Friday, May 26 at 7 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library Community Room.

Hamilton High School drama production

Hamilton High Play Productions will present "A Servant of Two Masters" on May 18 and 19 at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center.

"A Servant of Two Masters" comes from "Commedia Dell 'Arte," a form of acting in which all the actors were trained professionals who improvised most of the work, adding complications and twists wherever needed. The play is a lovely tale of a woman's love for her man, a man's love for his daughter, and two servants who can't seem to satisfy themselves. Truffaldino (Patrick Shea), a servant constantly tormented by his ravenous stomach, serves Federigo Rasponi (Chenelle Smith), a woman disguised as a man who has come to take what is rightfully hers from Signor Pantelone (Parker Woods), a business man in Venice. Pantelone's daughter, Clarice(Amy Andreason), served by the lovely Smeraldina (Andrea Asta), is entranced by the young Silvio (Kalan Curry) who is pushed into dealings by his mother, Signora Lombardi. A laugh-out-loud comedy that will surely knock your socks off, this is a must see event put on by Hamilton High Play Productions.

Tickets are $4 and can be purchased from the office or from a Play Productions member. For more information call 375-6060.

Democratic Women's Club

The Ravalli County Democratic Women's Club will meet at the Exchange Club (upstairs from the Banque) on Main Street in Hamilton this Friday, May 19 at 1:30 p.m. immediately after the Mule Team meeting. The main topics of discussion are the upcoming Montana State Convention of Democratic Women and the scholarship award to a Ravalli County graduating senior girl. Call 363-5078 for more information.

Poppy Days

Members of the Stevensville American Legion Post 94 Auxiliary will be distributing poppies on Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20 at Bitterroot Community Market, Super 1 Foods and downtown Stevensville. The poppies are distributed free but donations are accepted. All proceeds are used to help provide services to veterans.

Republican Women's Club

The next meeting of the Ravalli County Republican Women's Club will be held on Tuesday, May 23, at noon, at the Banque Club in Hamilton. The scheduled speakers are the Republican candidates for the various House and Senate districts in Ravalli County. The meeting is open to both men and women. For lunch reservations, call Karolyn at 961-5207.

Forest Plan open house

The Bitterroot National Forest invites the public to an open house Thursday, May 18 about the Forest's proposed Land Management Plan. The Plan provides guidance on how the lands within the Bitterroot Forest will be managed such as: motorized and non-motorized use, timber harvest, recreation opportunities, etc. The open house is from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton. Specialists, District Rangers, and the Forest Supervisor will be on hand to answer questions.

Cycling related maladies workshop

John List, physical therapist with Marcus Daly Rehab Services (MDRS), will be offering a free workshop on probable causes and solutions to cycling injuries presented on Tuesday, May 30 at 7 p.m. at the Canyons Athletic Club, 472 Tammany Lane, Hamilton. Cycling can improve your physical and mental health, and it's a great way to get out and enjoy the world around you. However, demanding too much from your body or faulty equipment can lead to such common cycling injuries as neck and lower back pain, knee damage, shoulder pain, or hand numbness.

List, an avid cyclist, and Tony Neaves of Valley Bike, will discuss issues such as cycling posture, proper equipment, equipment maintenance and personalizing adjustments on your bike to give a better and more comfortable ride.

The workshop is free to the public and members of the athletic club. Reservations are recommended as space is limited. Call Marcus Daly Rehab Services to reserve your spot at 375-4570. For more information about other workshops and health care, visit www.mdmh.org.

Lifestyle improvement classes

Terry Moran, MS, RN, in cooperation with Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, will present "In What Shape Am I?", the third in a series of Lifestyle Improvement For Excellence (LIFE) classes this Friday, May 19. The program will be from 10 a.m. to 12 noon in Conference Room B at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital.

This program, published by the Youth and Family Institute, will focus on assessing personal health and how to add balance to your own life. This program will inform individuals about the direct relationship between personal lifestyle, spirituality, quality of life, and health. Health is more than having a body that works. Wellness exists when there is a balance between the interdependent relationships of the physical, emotional, social, environmental, occupational, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. It is this balance which is the foundation of growth and when health is preserved. The theological premise for the Living Well In Christ ministry began with a focus on John 10:10--Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly." Throughout the Scriptures, "having life" means to be in a close relationship with God and with the community of the people of God, living wholly.

The presentation is facilitated by Terry Moran, who is a registered nurse, has a Masters of Science in Community Health and is enrolled in the Lay Ministry Institute, which is sponsored by the Montana Association of Churches. Cost is $5. Preregistration is requested. Limited scholarships are available. Childcare for a fee is possible if warranted by enough participants. Call Terry for more information and to preregister at 363-7656.

Parenting the Second Time Around

Kids First and Child and Family Service are offering information sessions for those who are parenting their relative's children (grandchildren, nieces, nephews). On Thursday, May 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., there will be a potluck social gathering at Claudia Driscoll Park. In case of inclement weather, the potluck will be held at Westview Center, Room 9, at 103 S. 9th in Hamilton. For more information call Brenda at 363-1512.

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