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.

Lilies of the Valley

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 611 N. 6th in Hamilton. For more information call Lola, 363-4633.

VFW meetings

VFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Hamilton the Woman's Auxiliary meets at 7 pm.

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.

La Leche League

La Leche League is an international mother-to-mother network for moms who want to breastfeed their babies. Bitterroot LLL chapter meets in the North Valley Public Library community room the third Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Mothers and children and pregnant women are welcome. Call 239-5039 for more information.

Suicide Loss Support

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 Shaun or Barbara Jo DesJardins, 777-3853.

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.

Saturday Kids Activities

Join the Montana Natural History Center each Saturday at 2 p.m. for a different exciting children’s program. Admission is 50 cents for kids, $1 for adults and members are free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Programs run about an hour to an hour and a half. Great for kids ages 5 and older. The center is located at 120 Hickory, Missoula.

Daly Mansion Holiday Tours

The Daly Mansion invites the public to celebrate the holiday season by touring the mansion. Beautifully decorated for the holidays, the Daly Mansion will be open for tours every Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through December 22. Entertainment and refreshments will be provided during the Friday evening tours. Entertainers include the Montana A Cappella Society (Nov. 30), Russell Perri (Dec. 7), Tim Shonkwiler (Dec. 14), and the Jack Frost Trio (Dec. 21). Tour prices are $8.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors, $5.00 for children 6-17 years, and free for children 5 years and under. For more information, call 363-6004.

SEE Sign Cooperative Learning Group

SEE Sign Cooperative Learning Group meets Mondays at 5:30 p.m. at Active Care Chiropractic in Stevensville. Facilitators are Gayle Thom and Jenn Closson. Admission is a donation toward copies/ink. For more information email Jenn Closson at jennksc@hotmail.com.

Yoga in the Root

Yoga in the Root now offers a night class, beginning Iyengar style, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Stevensville. In addition, there are general hatha classes at 10:30 a.m. Mondays and at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Vigorous ashtanga classes are at 9 a.m. Mondays and 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. The program is at Active Care Chiropractic at 504 Main St. Call Jill at 370-9252, or e-mail yogaintheroot@gmail.com for information.

Senior Center bridge

Just a reminder that bridge is a game you can play for life, it is always a mental exercise that keeps our brains and wits sharp. If you don't play yet keep your eye peeled for the announcement of the fall free bridge lessons. These classes will teach you the basics and you can move on from there. If you already play bridge and want to play duplicate bridge, games are on Wednesdays at the Hamilton Senior Center at 1 p.m. You will need to bring a partner or call Judy Dameral at 363-0738. She will assist you in finding a partner.

The Morning Gig

Attention musicians! St. Stephen's is recruiting musicians for "The Morning Gig." At 11 a.m. on Sunday morning, gather at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church on Main Street in Stevensville to practice, and then play. Sleep in! Play nine holes! Then come play music. There is a place in the band for everyone - whatever you play, you'll have a spot. If your music teacher is bugging you to practice this summer, come and jam! Just dug your clarinet out of the closet? Here's a place to tune it up. Help everyone be more creative! For more information call Suzanne at 529 6194 or email sartley@bresnan.net.

Florence American Legion

The 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 Russell Vogel, 777-4427.

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.s

Library storytimes

The North Valley Public Library in Stevensville offers story times for children ages seven and under on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Volunteer Sandra Wilson shares stories, songs and crafts with children and their families each week. Alternating weeks feature special themes such as letters, numbers or pets. No registration is required. For more information, call the library at 777-5061.

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 our 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.

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.

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.

Lutheran preschool registration

Grace Lutheran Learning Center is now enrolling students for preschool and kindergarten. Grace Lutheran Learning Center provides a high quality Christian education while nurturing the whole child’s development. Call now to register, space is limited. Call 363-1924.

Lions Club benefit

Do you want to get rid of old or unwanted eyeglasses, hearing aids, and cell phones? The Hamilton Lions Club will be glad to take them off your hands during the Spring Fair in Hamilton, April 18. Just find their booth, and drop off your unwanted items.

While visiting the booth, check out the ATV being raffled off for a fund raiser. Only 1,200 tickets at $10 each will be sold for a 2008 Polaris Sportsman 500. The drawing will be Saturday, August 30, at 5 p.m. at the Lion’s Club booth at the Ravalli County Fair.

Used eyeglasses are collected, refurbished and distributed to Third World countries to help people see. Locally, the Hamilton Lions Club spends over $7,000 a year to help people in the valley that need eyeglasses and eye exams. Hearing aids and cell phones are also collected and recycled.

Help Lions Club continue to serve the sight and hearing needs of our community by recycling your eyeglasses, hearing aids, and cell phones, and buying a chance on the ATV.

UM drama presentation

The University of Montana Department of Drama/Dance is pleased to offer “The House of Blue Leaves,” a Tony Award-winning black comedy. “The House of Blue Leaves” runs in the Masquer Theatre of the Performing Arts and Radio/Television Center on campus April 22-26 and April 29-May 3, at 7:30 p.m.

John Guare's surreal lampoon reveals the absurdity of a blue-collar American family and their grotesque obsession with celebrity. Set in Queens during the Pope's 1965 visit, the plot follows the misadventures of a dissatisfied zookeeper who dreams of Hollywood songwriting success. Three wayward nuns, an AWOL soldier's farcical terrorist plot, and the zookeeper's unbalanced wife—aptly named Bananas—contribute to the hilarious confusion of this darkly comic satire.

Guare will be on campus during the run of his play to give a lecture through the President's Lecture Series at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 25,2008. He will also give a seminar earlier that day, hold a Master Class in playwriting with Drama/Dance students, and, of course, see the production.

Call the Drama/Dance Box Office at 243-4581, M-F from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to reserve your seats today!

Community Planning Committee meetings

Hamilton: Wednesday, April 30, at 7 p.m. in the Commissioner’s Meeting Room

Hamilton CPC Open House: Thursday, May 1, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Commissioner’s Meeting Room

Stevensville: Wednesday, April 30, at 7 p.m. TBA

Draft zoning map open houses

Over the past several months, citizen-based Community Planning Committees and other interested parties have been telling County officials how they want to see the Bitterroot grow. Armed with a ream of residents’ letters and a roll of hand-drawn maps illustrating each community’s vision for future development, Ravalli County has been working with its consultant, Clarion Associates, to craft a new proposal for maps and standards that could lend more guidance and predictability to incoming growth. Now, the County is preparing to host a series of public events that will give citizens the chance to tell planners and officials whether they “got it right”, and give guidance as to how the proposals should be changed for future editions.

The “Draft B” countywide zoning regulations, released earlier this month, incorporate many of the changes that citizens requested after reviewing the first draft. Among other changes, the new draft features enhanced incentives and opportunities for agricultural landowners, more relaxed standards for accessory uses and mobile homes, and a process for rectifying claims of regulatory takings without going to court.

Ravalli County will host a workshop on Thursday, April 24, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Hamilton City Hall, where citizens will have a chance to tell the County’s team of planners whether the Draft B regulations adequately addressed their initial suggestions and concerns.

Shortly after this workshop, there will be an opportunity for citizens to see how the draft regulations might work together with a draft zoning map to guide growth in the Valley. The County is currently making its first attempt to convert each community’s vision into a draft map of proposed zoning district boundaries. An open house scheduled for Saturday, April 26 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Victor High School multi-purpose room) will give citizens the first of many opportunities to tell the County whether the “Draft 1” maps accurately reflect their preferences for future growth.

To discuss the maps in more detail, the County will host a follow-up workshop on Tuesday, May 6. Clarion will return to Hamilton for a public discussion at the First Interstate Center of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds from 7 to 9 p.m. A brief open house will precede the event from 6 to 7 p.m., so that citizens may study these initial proposed maps prior to the formal discussion.

Under the guidance of citizens and landowners, the County will continue to refine the draft regulations and maps through mid-summer, when the official consideration and adoption process is anticipated to begin. Citizens are asked to submit comments on the Draft B regulations by May 16, and on the Draft 1 maps by May 23. Citizens have stated that any plan must ultimately be “homegrown,” so public input on the proposals will be critical.

More information is available by contacting the Ravalli County Planning Department at 375-6530, e-mail planning@ravallicounty.mt.gov, or visit www.ravallicounty.mt.gov/planning.

Driver’s education class

Stevensville High School will hold signs-ups April 28 through May 7 for the next driver’s education series which will be held approximately May 12 through June 25. Any student who is at least 14-1/2 years of age by May 28 or older from Stevensville High School or any home school in the valley is eligible. Cost is $250. The first information meeting for students of Stevi High will be Wednesday, April 30 at 12:10 p.m. in high school room #3. Out-of-district and home school students may register by calling John Munk at 777-5539.

Driver services special hours

The Stevensville Driver Services office will be open April 29 through May 1 during the following hours: 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Due to the fact that there will only be one person in the office on these days, drive tests will be given only when there are no other customers in the office.

Business seminar

The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce invites Bitterroot Valley businesses to attend a special evening with Shirley Beck on Wednesday, April 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Hamilton’s City Hall located at 223 S. 2nd Street. Co-owner of the Sapphire Gallery and Sweet Palace in Philipsburg and a strong proponent of making the best use of Montana’s town centers, Beck will be sharing real-life stories about businesses that “do what they do best” by working together and individually to promote and improve their communities. The evening will also include a post-presentation reception. The cost is $5.00 per person. To register, call Pat at the Chamber at 363-2004 or stop by the Chamber office located at 105 East Main Street. The presentation is sponsored by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Tourism and Marketing Committee whose mission is: to promote tourism as an industry for further economic development and to implement projects that support the goal of establishing the Bitterroot Valley as a tourist destination.

Wellness lecture

Pat Bowen, Wellness Therapy Practitioner and Emotional Release Journey Coach, will present a free lecture, “Love Letters from Heaven,” on Wednesday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville. Bowen will present her persona1 experience of communications from “the other side" after the death of her husband through automatic writing which healed her life and directed her to her current healing work. Her message is that the Heavens are open and all of us can communicate with those on “the other side," most importantly, God himself. Her story is one of faith, miracles and hope. If you have ever lost a loved one, are presently grieving over a loss, are currently suffering as a loved one is preparing to pass or wonder about the welfare and activity of your loved one who has already left this life, her story and experience could bring peace and comfort to your soul. If you feel lost and confused about the direction of your own life or have fallen victim to addiction because of traumatic events in your life, Bowen offers hope of a bright new future, one uniquely designed for you by your creator. Life will take on new meaning as you busy yourself with your very own life purpose.

Montana Wobblies’ May Day Celebration

The Montana Industrial Workers of the World (IWW)—a.k.a. “the Wobblies”—will host two days of events celebrating May Day. Worldwide, May 1 is a holiday dedicated to the historic and current movement for human emancipation, and the on-going struggle of the working class. This year, Missoula will join in this celebration and help recognize and honor those without whose labor society could not exist. The IWW—a radical union dedicated to a truly democratic society—has been at the forefront of this struggle, and is inviting all to join in for two days of education, organizing, entertainment and action.

Thursday, May 1

5:00pm Gather at Kiwanis Park for rally and socializing

6:30pm March to the UC Theatre, U of M campus

7:30pm Showing of the documentary film “The Wobblies”

Friday, May 2

5:00pm Free Speech Fight, gather at the corner of Front & Higgins to exercise your right to free speech in public space

7:00pm Organizing Fair, upstairs at the Union Club

8:00pm Benefit Concert for Utah Phillips featuring singer/songwriter Mark Ross and Friends. Tickets $8-15.

Dance performance

In celebration of May First Friday, Elenita Brown and her dance students will perform at the North Valley Public Library beginning at 7 p.m. The performance theme will be "Catching Rhythms" and will feature dances choreographed to Corelli, Wynton Marsallis, Streetbeat, traditional French songs, Bizet's "Carmen" and flamenco rhythms. Admission is free. The North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 777-5061.

Botanical illustration art sow

On Friday, May 2, plan to visit the Montana Natural History Center between 5 and 8 p.m. to view original botanical illustrations by local artists. Students from Nancy Seiler’s popular botanical illustration classes will show off their work for the entire month of May at the Center. Art will be available for purchase with a percentage benefiting educational programs at the Montana Natural History Center, 120 Hickory St., Missoula. Don’t miss this chance to see these beautiful works of art! For more information, contact Jessie Sherburne at 327-0405 or Nancy Seiler at 370-1254.

Artist Reception

Rocky Mountain Bank in Stevensville will be hosting an artist’s reception on First Friday, May 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. Lisa Archer’s silk paintings are the featured SASS works in the bank lobby through the month of May. The artist will be in attendance before, during and after the annual Pie in the Big Sky Auction at 3rd and Main Streets.

Used Art and Jewelry Sale

The Stevensville Historical Museum will hold its annual Used Art and Jewelry the first weekend of May at 213 Main (formerly Sacajawea Gallery). Dates and times are Friday, May 2, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and and Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be a "Pre-Sale" Party for all donors on Thursday, May 1 from 7 to 9 p.m. For donations before the event, call 777-3928. All proceeds benefit the Stevensville Historical Museum.

Post-abortion retreat

A Rachel's Vineyard retreat for women and men struggling with the psychological or spiritual pain of abortion is scheduled to take place May 2-4 at a private location between Helena and Missoula.

According to Theresa Burke, PhD, author of the Rachel's Vineyard retreat, many women and men seek help anywhere from five to 20 years after their abortion, suffering for years in confusion and silence.

"Rachel's Vineyard offers a chance to get away from all the daily pressures of work and family and focus on this painful time in your life through a supportive and non-judgmental process," said Burke, who added that married couples, mothers, fathers, grandparents and siblings, as well as persons who have been involved in the abortion industry have come to Rachel's Vineyard in search of peace and inner healing.

Rachel's Vineyard has grown substantially since it began as a handful of retreats in 1994. About 500 retreats will be offered this year throughout the United States and Internationally. Burke said Rachel's Vineyard is growing because it is an extremely effective program for deep, inner reconciliation and healing.

"Do not continue to live in shame, fear or numbness," Burke said. "This is a beautiful gift you can give to yourself. The weekend is a unique process designed to release deep feelings of anger, ambivalence, grief and guilt that frequently accompany an abortion experience. The process is extremely helpful for those who struggle to forgive themselves or others. The weekend will help your soul find a voice and transform the pain of the past into hope."

According to Burke, Rachel's Vineyard is a "therapy for the soul," which combines psychological and spiritual healing through a unique and creative process.

The retreat fee is $150 which helps to cover the costs of the room, meals and retreat materials. Participation is confidential and open to all.

For more information or to register, call Susan Gliko at (888) 456-4673 or e-mail SusanMTRV@msn.com.

For more information about the symptoms of post abortion trauma, visit the Rachel's Vineyard website at www.rachelsvineyard.org.

Holy Spirit Conference

The 26th Helena Diocesan Catholic Holy Spirit Conference will be held May 2-4 at Carroll College in Helena. The conference begins Friday evening and will end with a closing Mass on Sunday.

The Most Reverend George Leo Thomas, Bishop of Helena, will be giving a brief welcome to kick off the conference on Friday night. The theme for this year’s conference is “Moved by the Holy Spirit, we encounter Christ.”

The conference will feature some excellent speakers, celebration of Eucharist on Saturday and Sunday, and a healing service on Saturday night. The sisters of the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary’s music ministry will lead a time of praise and worship throughout the weekend.

Mother Adela Galindo, founder of the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, will be the keynote speaker. She will be speaking on “The Word Became Flesh by the Power of the Spirit.” In addition, Sister Juana Maria Sanchez will also be speaking. Additional speakers include Father Eric Gilbaugh, Parochial Vicar for the Cathedral of St. Helena Parish, Father Marc Lenneman, Director of Campus Ministry at Carroll College in Helena, and Brother Bob Fishman, Director of Faith Formation and Religious Education at the Cathedral of Saint Helena Parish.

This year’s conference has something for the entire family. Diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, Doug Tooke, will be the leader of the youth tract along with his CYC board in conjunction with assistance from Sister Maria Jose Socias and Sister Silvia Tarafa of the Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Kelly and Matthew Fischer of Helena will head up the children’s ministry by providing fun and faith filled activities throughout the weekend.

Adult and youth registration is available at HYPERLINK "http://www.diocesehelena.org" www.diocesehelena.org. Registration is also available at the door the weekend of the conference. For more information contact Donna at 406-442-5820, ext. 16.

Film on sprawl

Peter Rosten, the Democratic candidate for the state House of Representatives from the Darby area, is bringing the film “Subdivide and Conquer” to the Pharoahplex Theater on Saturday, May 3 at 12 noon. According to a press release about the film, suburban sprawl consumes more than two million acres each year. The film reflects how sprawl impacts peoples’ lives in cities, suburbs and towns, and what some people are doing to change the way we grow. The 56-minute long film is narrated by Dennis Weaver and was shot in Colorado, Montana, Arizona, Oregon, New Mexico and Utah. This is a great opportunity to become further educated on a topic relevant to all Ravalli County residents.

Women's Flyfishing Clinic

Put down the vacuum and grab your fly rod, gals! The 6th Annual Women's Flyfishing Clinic is on Saturday, May 3 at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor Center. The class will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $50 and includes a Trout Unlimited membership and a catered lunch. Class topics will be casting techniques, entomology and fly selection, knot tying, choosing the right equipment, river and fish biology, and local Bitterroot River knowledge. All levels are welcome! Sign up at Fishaus Tackle (behind Vann's in Hamilton). For more information contact Jenny West at 363-3397 or Bill Bean at 363-6158.

Women’s career seminar

Stuck between a rock and a hard place? Join Soroptimists of Hamilton for the free Stepping Stones To Success Career Seminar for Women and Girls on Saturday, May 3 at the Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fifth in the Options For Women and Girls Series, the event will include a dozen professional women speakers from widely varied fields presenting information about their self-sustaining career paths. They will be giving advice and information on how to become employed in those fields. Also, packets will be handed out including information on education, training, job skill requirements, and career path information. Attendees will also receive resume and interview tips. Drawings throughout the day will include a $500 You Go Girl Scholarship. Lunch, beverages, and snacks will be provided free of charge. Also, free childcare is available upon reservation. To register, call St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 363-3025 or pick up a brochure and registration card at the Bitterroot Job Service Workforce Center located at 333 W. Main in Hamilton. Soroptimists is a world-wide non-profit service organization whose mission is to improve the lives of women and girls.

Pachyderm Club

The North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, May 2, at noon at the Frontier Cafe, U.S. 93 in Stevensville. Commissioner Greg Chilcott will be the guest speaker. The North Valley Pachyderm Club meets the first and third Friday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. All are welcome.

Dance performance

In celebration of May First Friday, Elenita Brown and her dance students will perform at the North Valley Public Library, May 2, beginning at 7 p.m. The performance theme will be "Catching Rhythms" and will feature dances choreographed to Corelli, Wynton Marsallis, Streetbeat, traditional French songs, Bizet's "Carmen" and flamenco rhythms. Admission is free. The North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 777-5061.

Botanical illustration art show

Railroad on the Go

First Friday means the Bitterroot Model Railroaders are on the go down in the Kohl Buildlng, behind Valley Drug on Main Street in Stevensville. Trains will be rolling Friday, May 2 from 5 to 9 p.m. As always, it's free and kids are the special guests.

Artist Reception

Used Art and Jewelry Sale

Catie Curtis in concert

Catie Curtis, described by The New Yorker magazine as a “folk-rock goddess,” will perform in concert on Friday, May 2 at 8 p.m. at the Hamilton Performing Arts Center (PAC). This will be the final PAC performance of the 2007-08 Season. The vivid songwriting of Catie Curtis combines insightful lyrics with soulful strumming, a sweet falsetto voice, infectious energy and a social conscience. In her own style of stripped-down modern folk, her songs entail emotional narratives of the human experience, including those about domestic violence, corporate greed, religion, political irresponsibility, homelessness, peace, and gay issues. Unlike artists whose careers are generated by one hit song, Curtis has garnered a fan base through word of mouth – without music industry hype – and is enjoying a flourishing career alongside the other great female singer-songwriters of her generation, including Dar Williams and Mary Chapin Carpenter, with whom she has toured. The Friday, May 2 concert will begin at 8 p.m. with doors open at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, on sale now at $12.50-$17.50, visit the web at www.hamiltonPAC.org or call the box office for tickets (Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.) at 375-6074.

Pro-planning film to air

Peter Rosten, Democratic candidate for the state House of Representatives from the Darby area, is bringing the film “Subdivide and Conquer” to the Pharoahplex Theater on Saturday, May 3 at 12 p.m. According to a press release about the film, suburban sprawl consumes more than two million acres each year. The film reflects how sprawl impacts peoples’ lives in cities, suburbs and towns, and what some people are doing to change the way we grow. The 56-minute long film is narrated by Dennis Weaver and was shot in Colorado, Montana, Arizona, Oregon, New Mexico and Utah. This is a great opportunity to become further educated on a topic relevant to all Ravalli County residents.

Women’s career seminar

Fort Harrison Day of Prayer

The 57th Annual Observance – National Day of Prayer, “Prayer! America’s Strength and Shield, will be Thursday, May 1 at the Naval Reserve Operations Center at Fort Harrison. The 4th Annual Prayer Breakfast will be at 7 a.m. Cost is $7.00.

The 8th Annual National Day of Prayer event will be at noon with no charge. Guest speaker is Very Reverend Stephen Brehe, Rector and Dean of St. Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral. Special music will be by Joe and Paula Forrest, Alicia Aldrich, St. Andrews School Children's Choir. Breakfast tickets available: Helena Chamber of Commerce (442-4120), Cornerstone Christian Bookstore (443-1991), Volume I Books, Bibles & Gifts (442-7950). At the door by RSVP only (475-3766).

Republican Forum and Barbecue

The Ravalli County Republican Women’s Club will be hosting a casual community forum and barbecue on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange Hall (just south of Hamilton on Hwy. 93). This is a nonpartisan gathering and exchange of information on a variety of topics of interest to valley residents. Representatives from the Planning Department will be on hand to discuss zoning and streamside setbacks. The County Commissioners will be there, as well as a number of elected officials and candidates for public office. Representatives from some of the local CPCs will be there to discuss zoning issues, and someone will be at the forum to discuss the proposed Community College. Other groups such as Right to Vote will also be present to meet and talk with the public. Lunch will be available for $5 a plate from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring grilled hamburgers, drinks, yummy desserts, etc. Come and bring the family -- find out more about some of these pressing issues, as well as having some good food and good fun.

Valley Farmers Market

The Farmers Market in Hamilton begins this season on Saturday, May 3 at 9 a.m. with a grand Spring Festival celebrating children!

Local day schools and kids’ programs will host activities, including face and flower pot painting, weaving anklets, and planting veggie starts. Look for them on the Museum lawn along with Maypole dancing! Judy and Tom Dempsey will get our juices flowing with polkas and country swing.

Located on Bedford Street by the Museum, the Market is also filling up Third Street with new local vendors and the Food Court. Breakfast specials will include pancakes and Belgian waffles, as well as baked goods. For lunch, welcome back to BBQ sandwiches, burritos, and tacos, lots of coffee and other hot drinks and the Museum’s best deal on freshly popped popcorn!

The Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. till 12:30 p.m., from May 3 through September 27. Community Health Fair Day will be August 16 and the Craziest and Biggest Vegetable Contest will occur Sept. 29. A local artist is being sought who is willing to take on the challenge of carving a giant pumpkin into a work of art ~ performance art at its finest!

The Bitter Root Valley Historical Society has scheduled Bitter Root Day for Saturday, June 7 and Apple Day for October 4. These events are expanded markets for the benefit of the Museum and its efforts to preserve history and culture in the Valley .

If you live in Ravalli County and 50% of the value of your product is made in Montana and you would like to sell at the Market, call Market Manager Laura Craig at 961-0004 for more information.

Come enjoy the fruits of local labor from the farm, studio and kitchen - fresh locally grown produce and handmade arts, crafts, furniture and more. Live local music every Saturday. Shop locally – shop Bitterroot!

Off Road User Assn.

Ravalli County Off Road User Association monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 6 at 7 p.m. at the Bitterroot Ridge Runners groomer shed, 663 Grantsdale Road in Hamilton. All members and anyone interested in joining are encouraged to attend. For directions or questions contact Mike at 642-9079 or 544-5027.

HCA golf benefit

Hamilton Christian Academy, an interdenominational Christian school, is in full “swing” organizing its eleventh annual “Golf Classic” 100-hole golf marathon. The marathon will be held Monday, May 5 at the Linda Vista Golf Course in Missoula. Fifteen golfers will tee off at 7 a.m. Each player must commit to self-sponsorship of $1 per hole and to obtaining additional sponsorship pledges. They have also committed to playing golf for a day, with a goal of playing 100 holes in approximately 8 hours. Proceeds go to scholarships for children who attend HCA or wish to attend HCA. For more information call 363-4534.

Figure Skating Showcase

Missoula Figure Skating Club’s 11th Annual Showcase on Ice will be held May 10, at 6:30 p.m. at the Glacier Ice Rink. This year’s theme is “Ice…Camera…Action!” featuring music from great movies. This year’s show will include a variety of performances by local and guest skaters from around the Northwest of all ages and abilities. Members of MFSC’s “Learn to Skate” program will be performing group numbers and MFSC skaters who have moved on to competitive skating will be performing in solo and group numbers. The MFSC coaches will also be performing both as a group and as soloists demonstrating the finest Missoula has to offer in figure skating. MFSC’s annual Showcase on Ice provides MFSC skaters the opportunity to perform for the community and also serves as a fundraiser for the Club. For more information contact the MFSC information line at 543-5889 or visit www.missoulafsc.org.

Democratic fundraiser

The Ravalli and Missoula County Democrats, together with the U.M. College Democrats, are hosting a joint Spring Fundraiser and Dinner to support campaigns to elect Democratic candidates for state legislative and local offices. The event will take place Saturday, May 3 at 6 p.m. in the University of Montana Ballroom. U.S. Senator Max Baucus is the keynote speaker and Montana Senator Dave Wanzenried will be the Master of Ceremonies. A catered meal, including hors d’oeuvres, will be provided. There will be a no-host wine and beer bar. The silent auction will feature a number of exciting items, including a large bronze statue. Seating is limited. A discount is available for students. Reservations are needed by Thursday noon. Call Rich Marcus at 777-1428 for ticket information.

Square dance club

Boots ‘n’ Calico Square Dance Club will hold a class and dance on Saturday, May 3. The class will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Following this class there will be a regular dance. The dance level will be mainstream with a plus dance occasionally. This all takes place at the Senior Citizens Center at 820 N. Fourth Street in Hamilton. The caller will be Barry Bartlette. Club members will provide finger food for treats. For further information call George Mason, 375-9575, or Cheryl Trams, 777-4209.

The Sunday Gathering

On Sunday, May 4 at 10 a.m. at the River Street Dance Theatre, 2nd and River in Hamilton, The Sunday Gathering, A Celebration will be held. Everyone is welcome. David Curtis will be speaking on integrating spiritual practices into our busy daily lives. Music will be performed by Deb and Jason Hicks of Joan Zen. They will be playing their original spiritual pieces. We meet the first Sunday of every month. We are not allied with any sect, denomination or political organization. We support one another on his or her own spiritual path. There will be folks coming from different beliefs and practices and this is cause for celebration. It is requested that heavy scents not be worn due to people’s allergies. Children are welcome. For more information call Joan Perry at 961-3706 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Remembrance

You are invited to a special memorial service for babies who died during pregnancy or infancy. It is always appropriate and never too late to honor the life and death of your baby who has left handprints deep in your heart, never to be forgotten. Come early if you wish your child personally included. The event will be held Sunday, May 4 at 3 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 41 1 So 5th St., Hamilton. For more information call 363-1385. The event is presented by the St. Francis Health and Wellness Ministry.

Singles trail ride

A trail ride for singles ages 18-100 will be held Saturday, May 17 at Bass Creek, between Florence and Stevensville. Bring your own horse. Registration is from 9 to 10 a.m. with the leaders heading out at 10 a.m. sharp. There is a "meet and greet" potluck after the ride. Those with last names starting with A-L bring casseroles or salads with dressing; M-Z bring drinks and napkins. The rest will be provided. For more information call 406-546-9838 or email 2trailsbecome1@live.com.

Museum exhibit

Ravalli County Museum is opening a new exhibit, starting May 10, entitled “Always and Never the Same, A Cultural Glance at Early Twentieth Century America.” This exhibit is on loan from Powell County Museum and Arts Foundation, Deer Lodge, and was curated by Lee Silliman. It consists of historic photographs and oral history Quotations from residents of the areas depicted. There are over 50 photographs taken by Othoi Hartley and Howard Thompson. The Ravalli County Museum is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.

AARP driver safety class

AARP is giving a driver safety class at the Stevensville Senior Center on May 22-23. Hours are 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. each day. You must attend both days. Cost is $10 per person. Montana mandates an auto insurance discount for qualified graduates. The course is designed primarily for drivers 50 and older. Preregistration is required by calling Western States Insurance at 777-5005.

Canine Cuisine Class

Concerned about commercial pet food and snacks? There will be a fun and educational morning class on preparing wholesome, holistic pet food for your furry best friends. The teachers are experienced canine/feline chefs, Mary Wulff and Jeanie Notti-Fullerton. The cost is $15 per person and includes recipes, handouts, snacks and laughs. The class will be held Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Animal Essentials, 1369 Hwy 93 N, two miles N of Woodside. To reserve your seat call 370-0699 or 369-0025.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

Ravalli County Environmental Health Department will sponsor the county’s first-ever Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event on Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17, at the north lot of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds.

Materials accepted include free-of-charge include: oil-based paints and stains; used solvents (paint thinners and degreasers); rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries (alkaline batteries can be thrown away); aerosol paints (small amounts can be sprayed on cardboard and empty cans may be thrown away); fertilizers, pesticides no longer registered for use by EPA; used motor oil, antifreeze and gasoline; and fluorescent bulbs.

Materials accepted for a fee include: Unwanted pesticides currently registered for use by EPA, mercury, caustics, poisons, strong acids (nitric, sulfuric, hydrochloric), and chlorinated solvents. County residents will be charged one quarter of the county’s disposal costs or about $3.50 per gallon based on volume of container. Businesses and out-of-county people will pay disposal costs of about $14 per gallon.

Materials not accepted include: Latex paint, which is considered non-hazardous; computers, televisions or other electronic waste, which can be taken year-round to Pete’s Palmer Electric in Missoula; and car batteries, which can be taken to any store that sells them.

The HHW Collection Event will run from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday.

Materials should be sealed in their original container if possible, or in a leak-proof plastic container. Glass containers should be wrapped in cloth, newspaper or other packaging material to prevent breakage. Containers should be placed in a cardboard box in the trunk of the car or in the bed of a pickup – away from passengers.

Event patrons will be asked to remain in their cars, and volunteers will handle the hazardous materials. Containers will not be returned.

Donations will be accepted, and all unspent money will go toward next year’s event.

For more information, or to sign up as a volunteer, contact the Environmental Health Department at 375-6565.

Zoning open house

An open house for the public will be held Saturday, May 17 at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public is invited to drop in anytime during those hours to find out what has been done thus far in the zoning process for Ravalli County, and the Stevensville School District in particular. Draft of the recently proposed County zoning map will be available, as well as Draft B Regulations. Stevensville Zoning Committee members will be available for questions and information about what has occurred in the process thus far. An opinion poll and suggestion box will be available, so all public input can become part of the process/ Everyone in Ravalli County is invited, but particularly those living in the Stevensville School District who have not been involved yet in this process, and who want to find out what is going on with zoning in Ravalli County. Plan to attend so that everyone can have their input and be heard in drafting the final maps and regulations.

HCA golf benefit

Christian speaker to visit

Jeff Fenholt, who played Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar" and was the lead singer in "Black Sabbath" and was in other death/metal/rock bands, will be performing free concerts in Victor May 31 and June 1. Fenholt used to be into witchcraft, the occult, alcohol and drugs. Jeff will show you how anyone and everyone can get set free from all kinds of bondages and addictions, no matter what they may be! Do you want to be stronger than stress? Mightier than depression? Are you finding you just can’t, get “over it?” Are you afraid of the headlines? Do you love nature, but can’t stand people? Has a sense of apathy paralyzed you? Are you a student who can’t make anyone happy, especially yourself? Got students no curriculum or “expert” can help? Are you still not finding the right answers, even on Oprah? Need more than a book? Do you want to be awakened to the answers you’ve been seeking for so long, but always seem to miss? Do you want to be a cruise missile that hits its target every time? Do you want to be a part of the Lazarus generation and have people see life and hope in your eyes? Jeff Fenholt is a lightning bolt of encouragement and will present to you his manifesto for triumph and victory for anything you will ever face! For more information call Cathy Kulonis, 777-1618.

Lions Club golf benefit

The Hamilton Lions Club will hold its 14th annual Charity Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 31 at the Hamilton Golf Course. Four- or five-person teams are now forming for the 9 a.m. shotgun start. Cost of $275 for a team ($55 singles) includes greens fees, lunch, many prizes and snacks. Entry forms are available at the Hamilton Golf Course, Ravalli County Bank offices or by calling Tom at 363-1222 or online at HYPERLINK "mailto:tom@montana.com" tom@montana.com.

Democratic Central Committee

The Ravalli County Democratic Central Committee will meet on Wednesday, May 7 at 7:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Perkins Restaurant in Hamilton. The success of the May 3 Spring Dinner, planning for the Memorial Day parade, preparing for the June 5 Democratic County Presidential Convention, and 2008 campaign funding will be discussed. All Democrats are welcome. For more information contact John Meakin at 777-4421.

Homeopathic lecture

A talk on "Homeopathic Palliative Support" for terminal or geriatric patients and those undergoing cancer treatment will be presented Thursday, May 8 at 7 p.m. at the offices of Classical Homeopathic Counseling, 715 Main St., Ste. E in Stevensville. Homeopathic palliative support can be provided without interference to prescriptions drugs. Relief can be given for many symptoms, including pain, disorientation, digestive problems, sleep, nausea, dizziness, etc. Homeopathy provides a safe, effective alternative to drugs and chemical treatments and is FDA approved. The speaker, Ellen Fowler Bench, has been a Homeopathic Practitioner since 1993. For more information or to sign up for the talk, call 777-5875.

Museum exhibit

Bitterroot Valley Youth Symphony

On Saturday, May 10, at 7 p.m., New Hope Southern Baptist Church will host a benefit concert for the Bitterroot valley Youth Symphony at 869 Sleeping Child Road, Hamilton. The performance will be led by Martha Ilgenfritz. There is no charge for admission, but donations will be accepted. All donations will go to the Bitterroot Valley Youth Symphony to provide uniforms, music and travel funds. For more information, call Randy Daniels at 381-3275, or Martha Ingenfritz at 961-4862.

Showcase on Ice

The Missoula Figure Skating Club presents its 11th Annual Showcase On Ice on Saturday, May 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Glacier Ice Rink at Missoula County Fairgrounds. Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for children 12 years and under. The annual ice skating show features group, duet and solo skating programs by skaters of all ages and abilities. Club member skaters and skaters from Missoula Figure Skating Club's "Learn to Skate" Basic Skills program will perform. This year's ice show features guest skaters from Canada (Tanya Fiefe) and Disney on Ice (Elyse Knudsen)!

‘Behind the Signs’ refuge tours

On Sunday, May 11, starting at 9 a.m., the public is invited to discover the wild side of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge while on a driving tour through the north area of the Refuge. Other tour dates are May 14, 18, 24, and 31. Focus of the tours will concentrate on finding and identifying migratory birds. The tour, weather permitting, will also include looking for other wildlife (mammals, butterflies, dragonflies, etc.). An interpretive talk getting participants “warmed up,” given by leaders Keith and Brenda Krejci, will proceed the tour. Pre-registration is required and the group size for the tour is limited to 20 people. For more information, or to pre-register, call the Refuge at 777-5552.

Mother’s Day Concert

Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Montana A Cappella Society as they take you on a journey to explore the many moods of love through song at the Sunday Series on May 11 at 2 p.m. at the Ravalli County Museum, 205 Bedford St., Hamilton. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear this fine vocal group that will represent the State of Montana in December 2008 at the Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C. For more information, call 363-5778 or log on to www.montanaacappella.org.

Mother’s Day Tea

The Daly Mansion Preservation Trust invites you to join them for a Mother’s Day Tea on Saturday, May 10 at The Daly Mansion. Bring your mothers to the Daly Mansion for a lovely afternoon. Decorated with arbors and flowers, tea will be served in the Sun Porch, the Formal Living Room, and the Trophy Room at 11:30 a.m. The afternoon will also include tours of the Mansion, musical entertainment, antique and unique doll displays, delicious finger foods, raffle baskets, and a silent auction of Pamper Your Mom Packages. Admission price is $20.00 and advanced reservations are highly recommended. For more information or to make reservations, call 363-6004, ext. 3.

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 regarding Dept. of Veteran Affairs issues on Tuesday, May 13 at the Stevensville Town Council Chamber from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and at the Hamilton Job Service office from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

The HHW Collection Event will run from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday.

Event patrons will be asked to remain in their cars, and volunteers will handle the hazardous materials. Containers will not be returned.

Donations will be accepted, and all unspent money will go toward next year’s event.

For more information, or to sign up as a volunteer, contact the Environmental Health Department at 375-6565.

Zoning open house

Weed Roundup

Save the date, Weed Wranglers! Saturday, May 17 will be the 4th Annual Lee Metcalf Weed Round-Up. Come help reduce the weed problem on the Bitterroot’s only National Wildlife Refuge and have fun doing it! This annual weed round-up includes friendly weed-pulling competitions. There will be some great prizes this year and the grand prize is a one person pontoon boat. Bring the whole family! Scouts, 4-H, and church groups are also invited to attend. A free lunch will be provided and there will be prizes for participation. Last year 1,500 lbs were pulled, come and help beat that amount! Call 777-5552 to register and for more information.

Green cleaning class

Learn how to make natural, nontoxic cleaning products for your home on Wednesday, May 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Meadowsweet Herbs, 180 S. 3rd St. West, Missoula. Recipes provided include an all purpose cleaner, creamy soft scrub, drain opener, furniture polish, laundry detergent and toilet bowl cleaner. Donations accepted as a fundraiser for Women’s Voices for the Earth. Call Meadowsweet Herbs at 728-0543 to register.

Darby Library presentation

Darby Community Public Library will host Humanities Montana Speakers’ Bureau program, “Home, Home on the Ranch,” a program of songs and stories about life on the American ranch, farm and homestead, by Bill Rossiter. on Thursday, May 22, at 7 p.m. at the Darby Community Public Library. The presentation is free and open to the public. Partial funding for the Speakers Bureau program is provided by a legislative grant from Montana Cultural Trust and from NEH’s “We the People” program.

Songs and stories presented in “Home, Home on the Ranch” provide musical snapshots of life in the American West, showing the values, experiences and attitudes unique to this life. Carving a home out of the “wilderness” or out of the “Great American Desert” was tough enough, but the long haul – sticking it out year after year – added flint to the soul. Drought, fluctuating markets, grasshoppers, dust storms, taxes, tragic and funny experiences – and of course, the mortgage – all show up in the ranch and farm songbook. Some of the songs and stories are serious, some are funny, and some are seriously funny, but they are definitely not Hollywood’s version of the West.

“Home, Home on the Ranch” will feature songs and stories, along with discussion of the values and attitudes they show. Songs will be accompanied by guitar, banjo, autoharp and harmonica. Because of Montana’s ranch and farm tradition, audience members will be encouraged to share personal or family stories about life on the range.

Bill Rossiter is a retired instructor of literature, humanities and folklore and chair of the Humanities Division at Flathead Valley Community College. He has been a member of the Speakers’ Bureau since 1982.

For more information, please call Darby Community Public Library

at 821-4771.

AARP driver safety class

AARP driver safety program

AARP driver safety program will be held May 23 and 24 from 6 to 10 p.m. in Hamilton. You must attend both days. The fee is $10 and pre-registration is required. Contact Jones-Korman Insurance Agency at 363-6583 for registration information. The next class will be June 19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There is no written test. Montana mandates an insurance discount for qualified graduates.

Trappers Youth Camp

With a goal to put ethical responsible trappers afield, a Trappers Youth Camp will be held June 13-15 at Beaver Creek Park, 10 miles south of Havre. This is sponsored by the Montana Trappers Association and the Montana Dept. of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Call FWP for further information.

Disability seminar

The Transition Seminar on June 18-20 will be held by Disability Services for Students at the University of Montana-Missoula. This seminar is a three-day workshop program developed specifically for students with disabilities who are considering postsecondary education. This program is open to high school juniors or seniors, and others who will soon be college freshmen. The participants will stay in a university dormitory, eat at a university cafeteria, and attend seminar style workshops on the University of Montana campus. Workshops will address disability rights, assistive technology, and federal and state resources that promote students' successful higher education experiences. Seminar participants will also have opportunities for discussion with college students with disabilities. The registration fee is $110 including seminar materials, meals and lodging during the event. The registration deadline is June 2, 2008. Call UM Disability Services at 243-2243 or visit www.umt.edu/dss for more information and registration.

Relay for Life

The dates and location for the Relay for Life this year are June 28 at 6 p.m. and June 29 at 8 a.m. at Haynes Field in Hamilton. This year’s slogan is “Together, Let’s Corral Cancer.” If you are interested in having a team, contact Summer Howe, 363-4400 (Sterling Savings Bank). For any general information, contact Bonnie Wickham, 360-4373. “In our lifetime we will see a cure for cancer, not because we wished for it, but because we worked for it.”

Treasure State Art Show

The Treasure State Invitational Art Show will be held July 18-20 in the First Interstate Building at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton. This biennial event continues to grow in popularity and support. In 2006 the show featured works by over 80 Western artists and attracted 1,000 attendees from all over the United States. The theme for 2008 is “Montana’s Treasures: Gold Camps to Ghost Towns.”

There is ample opportunity to meet and mingle with art collectors and connoisseurs during the three-day event. The weekend consists of original art work for the public to view, an evening wine tasting and artist’s reception and a gala dinner and auction.

A select group of artists is invited to submit original Western art. A limited number of booths are available for rent, or artists may elect just to submit an original piece of art for the auction. Booth artists are required to attend and to submit at least one piece of artwork to the auction.

The Treasure State Art Show benefits the Ravalli County Museum. Sales of artwork and proceeds from the event have contributed over $400,000 to this non-profit’s endowment fund.

Artists are encouraged to apply early to take advantage of all publicity opportunities. For more information about the Treasure State Art Show, call 363-7570 or email info@treasurestateartshow.com.

Creamery Picnic flower show

The Stevensville Garden Club will hold a flower show during Creamery Picnic (first weekend in August) at St. Mary's Family Center. Joanne Gibbons, President of the Stevensville Garden Club, appointed Jean Thomas to chair the event with membership volunteers to work on staging, the schedule (rules of the show), horticulture and design consultants, clerks, awards, and judging personnel. The theme is “Seasons of the Bitterroot.” The Standard Flower Show will follow the guidelines of the National Garden Clubs, Inc. Handbook for Flower Shows. Design entries will be pre-registered. Refreshments, educational exhibits, and commercial displays will be included. There will be no admission charge for the show. The Club is encouraging gardeners to plant unusual or "showy" flowers to enter in the Horticulture Division for the two-day show.

Bitterroot Classic Triathlon

With signs of spring, it’s time to get on that bike, put on those running shoes and start swimming those laps. The 3rd annual Bitterroot Classic Triathlon is gearing up to be held on August 23, to raise money in support of Missoula’s Ronald McDonald House. With a total of 234 athletes competing, 29 business sponsorships and over 90 volunteers the 2007 Bitterroot Classic Triathlon was a whopping success and rose over $11,000 for Ronald McDonald House. Together we can make this year’s event even more successful.

The Bitterroot Classic Sprint Triathlon encourages athletes of any level and age to participate. The event held at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center in Hamilton includes a 750-yard swim, followed by a 20K bike and a 5K run. Registration is open as of April 14 and all are encouraged to register early by visiting HYPERLINK "http://www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com" www.bitterrootclassictriathlon.com and credit cards are accepted.

This first class community event for the Bitterroot Valley attracts athletes of all levels near and far, cheering crowds, volunteers, sponsors and offers each athlete a top of the line, well-designed race jersey and a generous schwag bag. Get involved, you are sure to have fun!

Watch for more information on training opportunities, swim times at Bitterroot Aquatic Center and maybe a kid’s race as well! Business and corporate sponsorships are available and encouraged to support this cause.

For more information, volunteer opportunities or to become a sponsor of the 3rd Annual Bitterroot Classic Triathlon, contact Becky at 381-3201 or Leslie at 370-9000.

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