Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Community Calendar

Hamilton Senior Center activities

Monday – 11:45 lunch, cloggers at 1:30 p.m.; bingo on 1st & 3rd weeks, pinochle on 2nd week, 7 p.m.
Tuesday - line dancing at 9:30 a.m., cloggers at 3 p.m.
Wednesday – 11:45 lunch, bridge at 1 p.m., cloggers at 5:30 p.m.
Thursday - exercise at 9 a.m.; pinochle on 3rd week, 1 p.m.
Friday - line dancing at 9:30 a.m., 11:45 lunch
Saturday - pancake breakfast on 1st & 3rd Saturdays, 8-10 a.m.
Sunday - bridge, 1 p.m.

Stevi Senior Center activities

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

Victor Senior Center activities

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

Al-Anon

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

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous classes are held at Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck St., Stevensville, on Mondays and Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m.

Ask yourself these questions:

1) Have you ever felt remorse after gambling?
2) Do you often gamble until your last dollar is gone?
3) After you have won did you have a strong urge to return and win more?

If you answered yes to any of these questions this class might be good for you. For more information call 777-3897.

VFW meetings

VFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Hamilton. The Women's Auxiliary meets the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 649 Grantsdale Road. For more information call 363-3889.

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous is a Twelve Step program that deals with compulsive eating behaviors. It offers a solution within reach of all those who want to find relief from the obsession with food. It meets weekly on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at St Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 203 Main Street, Stevensville, and on Saturdays at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Main St., Hamilton. For information, call 777-7160.

Golden Agers

The Golden Age group meets every Friday from 7:30 to 10 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. Exercise classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m. Blood pressure is checked every first Wednesday of the month.

Florence American Legion

The Florence American Legion Post 134 meets the second Sunday of the month at Glen's Cafe in Florence. Meetings begin at 1 p.m. For further information contact Post Commander Claude Nichols at 273-3051.

Stevensville American Legion

The Stevensville American Legion Post 94 meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Post Home on Middle Burnt Fork Road. For more information contact Jerry Esmay, 777-5517.

Corvallis American Legion

The Corvallis American Legion Post 91 meets the third Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Corvallis High School library. For further information contact Post Commander Alex Ivanoff at 961-8997 or Post Adjutant Roy Meyer, 961-4272.

Lilies of the Valley singing group

The Lilies of the Valley Ladies Ensemble welcomes you to share your time, talent, wit and humor in the joy of singing together, short programs to share with others. No auditions to participate, only your love of the language of music and the desire to sing it in melody and harmony. Come and relax Thursday evenings, 7 to 9 p.m., at 211 N. 6th St., Hamilton. For more information call Thelma, 363- 1598, or Lola, 363-4633.

WIC clinics

A WIC clinic is offered the first through the fourth Wednesdays of each month at the United Methodist Church in Stevensville, the second Monday of each month at the Church of the Nazarene in Victor, and the third Monday of each month at the Darby Clubhouse.

Sapphire Quilt Club

The Sapphire Quilt Club meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission Street. Teaching of short cuts and easy techniques begin at 6:30 p.m. Join this fun group of people to learn about quilting. For information, contact Linda Powell at 777-1070.

Grief Support Groups

When you grieve the death of a loved one, you sometimes hide it so others think you’re over your sorrow and loss. Marcus Daly Hospice offers an opportunity to share grieving experiences and grow from them.

For the men in our community dealing with the death of a loved one, Marcus Daly Hospice offers a men’s breakfast support group. The Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast meets at 9 a.m. every second and fourth Friday of the month in the Marcus Daly Hospice dining room. Breakfast is provided for a $3 donation per person. Call 375-4752 to reserve your spot.

For anyone in our community dealing with the loss of a loved one, Tuesday afternoons from 2-3:30 p.m. a bereavement support group meets in the Marcus Daly Hospice Center living room. All are welcome.

For more information, call Cathy Palmer, LCPC, Bereavement Coordinator, at 375-4752.

Library Storytimes

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

Preschool story time

Preschool story time is held every Wednesday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Children’s Corner of the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. For more information call the library at 363-1670.

Toddler story time

Toddler Story time is held every Friday from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton.

Spanish conversation group

Habla Espanol? Do you travel? Do you work with Latinos? Do you just want to keep your mind sharp? If you are a beginner or just a bit rusty, join the Stevi Spanish Conversation Group at the North Valley Public Library Wednesdays from 6 to 7 pm to brush up on your Spanish language skills. This is not a class to learn to speak Spanish. It will be an informal, weekly gathering to practice speaking the Spanish language. The focus will be role playing for situations experienced during travel and everyday life. For more information, call the library at 777-5061.

Soroptimists

Soroptimist International of Hamilton meets the first and third Thursdays of each month at noon at BJ’s Restaurant and the second Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Forest Service building. Soroptimist is a worldwide organization for women in management and professions working through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women. All interested business women are encouraged to attend.

Rotary Club

The Hamilton Rotary Club meets Mondays, 12 noon, at “Papa Bear’s Den” on the east side of The Three Bears Creamery Cottage, 1659 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. For information about Rotary, call 363-2960.

PFLAG Chapter

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

‘Science of Mind’ fellowship

Science of Mind fellowship gathers every Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Carriage House in Hamilton to watch a downloaded message from Seattle's Center For Spiritual Living. Join like-minded metaphysicians in spiritual community. For info call Barb Lucas, 375-9996.

Women’s writing group

The Women's Collaborative Writing Group, focusing on women's issues, meets at SAFE in the Bitterroot, 150 Morning Star Way, Hamilton, on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. For more information call Theresa Rivera, advocate, at 363-2793, ext 12.   

Legion bingo

B-I-N-G-O! Join American Legion Fort Owen Post 94, in Stevensville, for free popcorn and an entertaining evening of bingo. The action starts at 7 p.m. at the Senior Center in Stevensville on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Bring the entire family. All prizes are cash and proceeds go to support American Legion youth activities.

Cancer Support Group

A Cancer Support Group is held each Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library Community Room. The group is for cancer patients, cancer survivors and family and/or caregivers. For more information contact Diane Howard at 777-2385 or 363-8543.

Hamilton Garden Club

The Hamilton Garden Club meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at a member’s home. For more information call 961-1678 or Linda at 961-0209.

Veteran-to-Veteran (V2V) meetings

The V2V outreach group meets every Friday morning at 8 a.m. in the backroom at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. These informal meetings are for all veterans from the Boxer Rebellion to the present. Many veterans have both unresolved and resolved issues from their experiences in the military that impact their lives today. At the meetings veterans can discuss whatever they want and the outreach group gives veterans an opportunity to get together to share information and talk about issues. For further information contact Dan Mayer (961-1577) from the Bitterroot Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Vietnam Veterans of America

The Bitterroot Chapter #938 of the Vietnam Veterans of America meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Human Resources Building, 316 North 3rd Street, Hamilton. Enter through the north door. Vietnam era veterans often need assistance with problems and issues and many have similar stories. The Bitterroot Chapter VVA is your organization to provide the opportunity to obtain and share information, to organize grass root activities, lend a helping hand, and offer assistance to all veterans in dealing with the Veterans Administration. Also, through the National VVA organization, the local chapter supplies input to state and federal government legislators on issues important to veterans. For more information contact Bill Decker at 369-0544.

Library Tot Time

A weekly Tot Time program for parents and children not yet in school is held every Tuesday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Darby Community Public. Enjoy reading, art, music and snack. The program is free. For more information call the library at 821-4771.

Darby food collection

The Darby Bread Box, a local food bank in Darby, will be opening January 4, 2010. During November and December, organizers are collecting canned fruits and vegetables and peanut butter. Drop off donations at People’s Market or Bitterroot Community Credit Union. Any kind of donation would be appreciated.

Kiwanis seeking donations

The Bitterroot Valley Kiwanis Club is once again filling food baskets for families in need in the Bitterroot Valley. For over 30 Bitterroot Valley Kiwanis has provided between 280-320 baskets to families for the holiday season. These baskets include food and essentials items for families. The club is seeking donations of food items or money to help this year’s program. If you are interested, send a donation to Bitterroot Valley Kiwanis, 610 N 1st St, Suite 5, PMB 5, Hamilton MT 59840. You can also call Tyler Claxton at 370-6208.

Hamilton Elks dinner

The Hamilton Elks host a dinner open to the public every Wednesday night at the Hamilton Elks Lodge, 203 State Street. The menu is different each week and the cost is $8.00. Serving begins at 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Elks scholarship fund.

Suppertime at SVCFC 

Suppertime@SVCFC is a free community dinner for families and those needing a good, nutritious meal. Meals are served on Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m. at South Valley Child and Family Center, 515 Madison in Hamilton. All meals are prepared in a professional kitchen by volunteers. The program is funded by contributions, donations and grants. Any help is appreciated. If you or your group would like to volunteer or donate, call SVCFC at 363-3450.

Stevensville Awana

Awana kids’ club is a program for children ages 3 years-6th grade at First Baptist Church, 402 Church, Stevensville. It meets on Tuesdays after school from 4 to 5:30 p.m. during the school year. There are games, Bible stories, snacks and age appropriate curriculum. Awana is an international kid's club open to any child. For more information call Lynn Baker at 531-2684.

Lone Rock Awana

Lone Rock Bible Church, 1142 Three Mile Creek Rd., Stevensville, invites all children from preschool (age 4) through sixth grade to come to Awana Club, every Wednesday through March 24, from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m. at the church. Awana is one of the largest nondenominational children's and youth ministries in the world, focused on spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through the local church. Each week the boys and girls will learn Bible verses, have a Bible story time, and play organized games. For more information call the church office at 777-2592.

MAC High School Youth Group

Six MAC (Montana Association of Churches) churches including Faith Lutheran, First Presbyterian, Corvallis United Methodist, United Methodist-American Baptist Federated, First Christian and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church are sponsoring a community youth program for all high school students. The MAC youth group meets on Monday nights from 6 to 8:15 p.m. at the Carriage House located at 310 N. 4th Street, Hamilton. Dinner will be provided by the churches at 6:30 p.m. Music will start at 7 p.m. followed by a short message given by the ministers of the above churches, an activity, fellowship and more music will follow. All community high school students are welcome. Call 363-7656 for more information.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Group

For over 35 years, MOPS has been creating authentic communities where young moms gather to experience encouragement, support and hope. But, it doesn’t stop there. Through training and development customized to women in this stage of life, and through do-able service opportunities, MOPS grows moms to make a better world.

Although mothering preschoolers is at times a lonely challenge, MOPS is providing a welcome break for moms; a chance for moms to make new friends, enjoy a relevant speaker, discussion time and snacks, and most importantly, an opportunity for moms to know they are not alone in the struggles and joys of raising young children.

The new Bitterroot MOPS group meets at Lone Rock Bible Church, around the corner from Lone Rock School, just off Eastside Hwy, down Three Mile Creek Road, between Stevensville and Florence. The group meets every other Tuesday, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Age-appropriate childcare including snacks, stories and activities, is available for children up through age five.

For more information about Bitterroot MOPS, contact Jeannie Tischler at 777-0506.

IDEA MT meeting

Idea Development Entrepreneurial Association, Montana (IDEA MT), a network referral group dedicated to the advancement of small business in the Bitterroot, meets the first and third Wednesdays at 7 a.m. in Stevensville. The group is open to all local entrepreneurs or want-to-be entrepreneurs who are interested in developing or growing a small business. For more information contact Sue at 240-7862 or Jane at 531-9556.

Waldorf Playgroup

Waldorf Playgroup, Parent/Child Classes meet Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton, and Daly Mansion Children's Garden. Welcoming parents, expecting parents, and children birth to 6 years for creative play, songs, stories, baking, crafts and gardening in a homelike setting. For more information contact Kim at 369-0213 or Elissia at 381-1981. Waldorf Playgroup, Parent/Child Class is sponsored by the Bitterroot School. More information about the Bitterroot School and Waldorf education can be found at www.thebitterrootschool.org and www.whywaldorfworks.org.

Veterans affairs clinics

Andrea Montee, Service Officer for the Montana Veterans Affairs Division in Missoula, will be available to veterans and their dependents that have questions or need to file a claim with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs on the second Tuesday of every month from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Stevensville Town Council Chambers and from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hamilton Job Service office. She will also be at the Job Service office every fourth Wednesday of the month from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. For more information call 542-2501.

Tot Time Tuesdays

Tot Time Tuesdays are held every Tuesday from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Local Living Family Center, 5501 N. Hwy. 93 in Florence (behind Town Pump).

Pre-school children and their caregivers are welcome. Meet other parents in your community and have fun with your kids. Toys and activities are provided. Tot Time is hosted by Laura Pickett, Early Childhood Development Educator. Drop-ins are welcome. Call for info, 273-0142.

Hamilton Trap Club

The Hamilton Trap Club is open every Wednesday and Sunday from 12 noon until dusk unless people get done shooting trap before dusk. For more information contact Dick or Cheryl Wallis at 546-3856. The Trap Club is located at the Hamilton Airport.

Darby Library Story Time

Story times are held at the Darby Library every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for children ages 3 and younger and 11 a.m. for children 3 to 6. Children can enjoy hearing books read aloud, dancing, singing and making a fun craft. For more information contact Trista Smith, Librarian, 821-4771.

After School Games

After School Games are held Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Local Living Family Center, 5501 N. Hwy. 93, Florence. Come in out of the cold and socialize. Parents’ permission required, parent volunteers appreciated! Call for info, 273-0142.

Shamanic Journey Circle

The Blue Eagle Woman Shamanic Journey Circle meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at 504 Main St. (Active Care Family Chiropractic building) in Stevensville. The event is free and open to anyone who would like to participate in shamanic drumming and healing work. For more information, contact Marge Hulburt at 241-7260.

Bitterroot College student orientations

Have you been thinking about going to college? Attend a Bitterroot College Program New Student Orientation every first and third Thursday of the month through August 2010 and get your questions answered! Learn how to apply to college, what college will cost, how Financial Aid works, what placement tests are needed, and how to choose a major. Orientations are held at the Bitterroot College Program's new location at the Ravalli Entrepreneurship Center, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. For more information, call 375-0100 or e-mail HYPERLINK "mailto:victoria.clark@umontana.edu" victoria.clark@umontana.edu or go to HYPERLINK "http://www.umt.edu/bcp/orientation.asp" http://www.umt.edu/bcp/orientation.asp.

Lutheran preschool registration

Grace Lutheran Learning Center is now registering for Fall 2010 Preschool. Enroll your child today and give them a great academic start. Morning and afternoon preschool is available for ages 2-5, Monday through Friday. Come meet the teachers and take a tour of the facility and get your child signed up. Space is limited. Call 363-1924 for more information.

Grace Lutheran summer program

Are you looking for something positive, productive and pleasurable for your child to do this summer? Grace Lutheran Learning Center is now enrolling for its Summer Program. Each week your child can enjoy a new theme full of exciting crafts, science projects, field trips and activities. Space is limited. Call 363-1924 for more information.

Summertime@SVCFC

Want a great way to start off the summer? Come and enjoy Summertime@SVCFC, a summer camp for kids June 14-July 30 for kids 6-11 years old. We offer six weeks of fun, education, fun and exploration! Take one week or more and have a great time exploring our valley, swimming, bowling, acting, crafting, and much more. Registration starts April 15 and registration forms will be available at the following sites: local elementary schools, many downtown Hamilton businesses, the Bitterroot Public Library and at SVCFC, 515 Madison in Hamilton. Ccall for further info at 363-3450.

Evergreen Kids Corner day camps

Evergreen Kids Corner Preschool is now enrolling for 2010 Summer Explorers day camps. Camp flyers and registration forms can be picked up at the school, 201 S. Eighth Street in Hamilton. These themed camps offer a variety of fun and educational experiences for children ages 2 to 8. This year’s offerings include Rhythm Camp, Art Camp, Cooking Camp, Herbal Kids Camp, Leave No Trace Camp, Spanish Camp, and many more. Camps range from $20 to $55. Space is limited. Evergreen Kids Corner is also offering a summer session of pre-school for children ages 2 to 4. The pre-school session will take place on Tuesday and Thursday mornings in July. The session is a great opportunity to experience EKC’s cooperative and nurturing learning environment. Evergreen Kids Corner is a non-profit parent cooperative, offering pre-school for 2- to 5-year-olds. To join or learn more about this community of parents, educators and children, call 363-1688 or visit www.evergreenkidscorner.org.

Farmers Union summer camps

Montana Farmers Union's (MFU) 2010 camp season is almost here and offers lots of fun and lasting memories for youth across the state.

"Leading by Serving" is the theme for this year, and all activities and workshops will focus on those opportunities. The camps also provide plenty of time for campfires, dances, art and crafts, laughter, team building nature hikes, and sports. Cooperative teamwork and leadership skills influence all camp activities.

Two overnight camps will be offered this summer at MFU's Arrowpeak Camp, located in the Highwood Mountains approximately 40 miles east of Great Falls. A third camp is coordinated by the Hill County Farmers Union and is held at the Kiwanis Camp south of Havre.

The camp schedule is:

Senior Camp - June 11-15 at Arrowpeak (grades 8-12, ages 14-19). Cost is $60 for MFU members and $115 for non-members.

Junior Camp - June 26-30 at Arrowpeak (grades 3-7, ages 8-13). Cost is $60 for MFU members and $115 for non-members.

Hill County Farmers Union Camp - June 10-13, at Camp Kiwanis (for ages 9-14). Cost is $75.

Call 1-800-234-4071 or visit www.montanafarmersunion.com for more information.

Stevensville Playhouse Children’s Workshop

Signups are now underway for the Stevensville Playhouse Children’s Workshop to be held July 26 through Aug 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day. Workshop participants will give two performances: Friday, August 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 7 at 2 p.m. Fifteen students, ages 7-17, will be accepted for the workshop. Students learn skills in acting, set design, costuming, and all other aspects of a theatre performance. For more information call the Stevensville Playhouse at 777-2722 or Kori at 360-6905.

Lone Rock VBS

VBS at Lone Rock Bible Church is now pre-registering. SonCountry Farm Vacation Bible School will be held at Lone Rock Bible Church June 14-18 from 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. There will be games, crafts, songs and snacks. Kids can have some fun down on the farm! For more information and to pre-register contact Amy Herron at 777-2957.

Darby Library teen photo contest

The Darby Library will sponsor a teen photo contest. Teens between the ages of 13 and 18 can submit a photo that explores the theme "Make Waves" to librarian@darbylibrary.net. The photos will be posted on the library's Facebook page and the photo with the most “likes” will win two lift tickets to Lost Trail Mountain. The photos cannot contain any people and must be an original creation by the submitter. For more information call 821-4771.

Victor volleyball camp

Members of the University of Montana Lady Grizzlies Volleyball Team will coach players at a camp hosted by the Victor Lady Pirates and held from Tuesday, June 15 through Thursday, June 17. The camp, taking place at the Victor School Gym, is open to both high school and middle school volleyball players. Camp time for middle school players (incoming grades 6-8) is 9 a.m. to noon each day. Camp time for high school players (grades 9-12) is from 1:30 to 4:30 and 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $45 for middle school and $90 for high school camp. Camp application and medical forms are available online at the Victor School website ( HYPERLINK "http://www.victor.k12.mt.us/sports/sports.htm" www.victor.k12.mt.us/sports/sports.htm). The deadline to apply is Wednesday, June 9, and camp is limited to the first 36 campers in each session. Contact Karen Philips at 369-0725 or kphilips@montana.com for more information.

Hamilton Elks dinner

The Hamilton Elks host a dinner open to the public every Wednesday night at the Hamilton Elks Lodge, 203 State Street. The menu is different each week and the cost is $8.00. Serving begins at 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Elks scholarship fund.

Youth soccer camp signups

Registration is underway for the Stevensville Youth Soccer Camp to be held July 12-16. Camp I, for ages 6-14, will be held from 9 a.m. to 1:30 and Camp II, for ages 4-5, will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Cost for Camp I is $100 (family rates available) and cost for Camp II is $50. All campers will receive a shirt, soccer ball and water bottle. Learn and practice fundamentals of the game, unselfish play and team play. For more information contact Jenny Hennes, 369-3987, or jrahennes@yahoo.com

Bitterroot Library June events

June 4

• Toddler Story Time 10:30-11:15 a.m., west meeting room

June 9

• Preschool Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Children’s Corner, “Fishing” with storyteller Karen Fields

June 11

* Toddler Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., west meeting room

June 14

• Summer Family Reading Program begins. Help your kids succeed in school! When children read what they enjoy, they learn to love reading and become better readers. Sign up at the Information Desk

June 16

• Preschool Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Children’s Corner, “Mr. Brown can Moo” with storyteller Ollie Johnson

June 18

• Toddler Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., west meeting room of library

June 23

• Preschool Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Children’s Corner, “Animals of the Night” with storyteller Sally Blevins

June 24

“This Thursday” presentation on the west lawn at 1:30 p.m. Splash into Reading with puppets, books, and Dixie Stark!

June 25

• Toddler Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., west meeting room of library

June 30

• Preschool Story Time, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Children’s Corner, “Water Wonders” with storytellers Sally Blevins and Jennifer Crawford

• Water Wonders Program for Grades 2-5, 2-3:30 p.m.

Stevensville UMC summer schedule

The Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College Street, now holds breakfast and adult Sunday School beginning at 8:30 a.m. Praise singing is at 9:45 a.m., followed by worship at 10 a.m. each Sunday. Everyone is welcome.

Florence farmers market

The North Bitterroot Valley Farmers Markets is held every Saturday at 8:30 a.m. in the Il Villaggio Park adjacent to Caffé Firenze in Florence. All items offered are locally grown and produced in the Bitterroot Valley. Many of the products are natural and/or organic. For more information contact Eric or Suzanne Winegart at 777-0709.

PEP career workshops

Are you interested in exploring career options suited to you? Introducing PEP Career Exploration Workshops at the Bitterroot College Program (BCP) of the UM, sponsored by Literacy Bitterroot. PEP stands for Personal Employment Plan and is designed to assist people with career exploration, education planning, and job search preparation. PEP utilizes the Montana Career Information System—a powerful online tool designed for exploring your career options. PEP sessions are held every Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Bitterroot College Program, located at the Ravalli Entrepreneurship Center, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. No appointment or registration necessary—just drop by. For more information, contact the Bitterroot College Program at 375-0100 or Literacy Bitterroot at 363-2900. Or visit the Bitterroot College Program website at http://www.umt.edu/bcp.

Youth group lobster fundraiser

The lobstahs are coming! The youth group from St. Mary-Stevensville/St. Joseph-Florence will be taking orders for their live lobster fundraiser until Monday June 14. Preordered 1-1/4 pound Live Maine Lobsters are $18 each ($19 each if you prefer cooked/frozen) and will be available for pick up Saturday, June 19. Contact St. Mary's Parish office, 777-5257 or 546-8916. 

Wednesday, June 9

Elks dinner

Hamilton Elks will be serving breaded shrimp Wednesday, June 9 at 6 p.m. at the Lodge located at 203 State Street. The cost is $8.00 and includes a baked potato with sour cream, coleslaw, dessert and coffee. Your attendance helps the Lodge provide scholarships to area youth.

NV library board

The North Valley Public Library board will meet on Wednesday, June 9 at 4:30 p.m., a change from the usual third Wednesday meeting. All library board meetings take place in the library's community meeting room and are open to the public.

Stevi school building project meeting

A community meeting on the building project will be held Wednesday, June 9 at 7 p.m. in the elementary gym.

Topics include:
Project Overview
Facility Construction Timeline
Project budget – status report from the Construction Manager
Participation of Local Contractors
3-D Video of Proposed Facilities
Next Year’s Shortened School Calendar
Pick-up and Drop-Off Zones for Parents and Buses
Breakfast and Lunch Programs
Short-term Displacement of Students
Question and Answer

This informational meeting provides the opportunity for all parents and community members to partner with the school district by learning the details and providing input for the facility project. Refreshments will be served.

Book reading

A book reading/signing with Karen Buley, author of “Nurses on the Run: Why They Come, Why They Stay,” will be held on Wednesday, June 9 at 6 p.m. at Chapter One Book Store, Hamilton.

Stevi school community meeting

Stevensville Public Schools will hold a community meeting on Wednesday, June 9 at 7 p.m. in the elementary gym. Topics include:

Project Overview; Facility Construction Timeline; Project budget – status report from the Construction Manager; Participation of Local Contractors; 3-D Video of Proposed Facilities; Next Year’s Shortened School Calendar; Pick-up and Drop-Off Zones for Parents and Buses; Breakfast and Lunch Programs; Short-term Displacement of Students; Question and Answer.

This informational meeting provides the opportunity for all parents and community members to partner with the school district by leaning the details and providing input for the facility project. The following people will be present to listen and answer any questions: school board trustees, district administrators, building consultant Paul Bishop of Building Solutions, architect Carl Posewitz of Paradigm Architects, and construction manager Scott Bruner of Swank Enterprises.

Childcare will be provided and refreshments will be served.

Thursday, June 10

Women Newcomers Club

The Bitterroot Women Newcomers Club invites you to its June 10 meeting to hear Judy Estler speak about the "Army of Women", organized by Dr. Susan Love, cancer researcher. The meeting takes place on Thursday, June 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ravalli County Museum, 3rd and Bedford in Hamilton.

Stockgrowers meeting

The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) will hold its Mid-Year meeting, June 10-12 in Dillon. Mid-Year is one of the two major meetings MSGA holds each year. MSGA will be looking “Beyond the Barbwire” as it meets to discuss the issues facing Montana ranching families and set interim policy to guide the association through the rest of the year. MSGA will also celebrate ranching in Montana with a parade, ranch tour and its popular Cow Pasture Golf Scramble.

This year, Mid-Year will kick off on Thursday, June 10 with meetings of the MSGA Board of Directors, the Montana Grass Conservation Commission, the Montana Public Lands Council and Montana Association of State Grazing Districts Joint Directors, and MSGA’s Research, Education and Endowment Foundation. Thursday night will feature a Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Twilight Training Session at the Beaverhead County Fairgrounds with a stockmanship clinic presented by Ed and David Fryer from the Castle Mountain Ranch, chute-side demonstrations, BQA certification, and dinner sponsored by Northwest Farm Credit Services. This event is free and open to the public. The Young Stockgrowers will hold their meeting with a free dinner and drinks Thursday night at the Barrett’s Park Pavilion south of Dillon.

For more information regarding the Mid-Year meeting, visit http://www.mtbeef.org or contact the MSGA office at (406) 442-3420.

Friday, June 11

Methodist rummage sale

The Corvallis United Methodist Church Men’s Group will hold its annual rummage sale on Friday and Saturday, June 11 and 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the church, Eastside Hwy at Cemetery Road (one mile south of Woodside Cutoff).

Art show

The Montana Professional Artists Association Show and Sale will be June 11-13 at the Bitterroot River Inn and Conference Center, Hamilton. This is the sixth annual all-member show with a gala reception opening on Friday, June 11 at 6 p.m. Show hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guest artist is Mary Ann Cherry from Idaho Falls. Admission is free.

South Valley Pachyderm Club

The next meeting of the South Valley Pachyderm Club will be Friday, June 11 at 12 noon at The Root Catering and Conference Room (formerly ‘Papa Bear’s Den’) on the east side of The Root Deli, 1659 N. 1st street, Hamilton. The South Valley Pachyderm Club, which meets on the second and fourth Fridays of the month, is an officially recognized allied organization of the Republican Party. Members of the public are welcome. For more information see http://www.ravcogop.com or contact Gordon Read, publicity chair, 363-2960.

Hamilton Players production

Get your tickets now for the Hamilton Players’ production of the Irving Berlin musical, “Annie Get Your Gun.” Often referred to as Irving Berlin's greatest achievement in the theater, “Annie Get Your Gun” tells the true story of Annie Oakley, Frank Butler and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show as it traveled around the world in the late 1800's. Featuring Peggy Leonardi, Ed Jessop, Jimmie Rude, Jody Parsons, Alyx Steadman, Dan Rose, Cara Shulz, and Rick Bucheit, this is one show you don't want to miss! Directed by Gina Joseph, musical direction by Peggy Leonardi. Show dates are June 11-13, 18-20, and 25-27. Tickets are $14.00 reserve seating and are available at the Hamilton Players Box Office, 375-9050, M-F, 1 to 5 p.m., or online at: http://www.hamiltonplayers.com.

Saturday, June 12

Flea market

A flea market will be held Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. There will be antiques, collectibles and new and used items. Lunch is available. Rent a table for $5 by calling Katie at 363-2316.

Plant sale

The Hamilton Garden Club will hold its annual plant and bake sale on Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bell McCall on Main in Hamilton.

Gardening workshop

“Worms” will be the topic of the last in the “Grow Your Soil” series on Saturday, June 12 at 1 p.m. presented by Sam’s Spade Garden Tools and Wares. Rod Daniel, organic market grower, is the presenter. Rod has cultivated a healthy population of red wigglers and uses the resulting worm castings in his potting soil and garden soil. Worms are incredible allies in building healthy soils and Rod will cover the differences between earthworms, night crawlers and red wigglers and how to cultivate and maintain healthy populations of each. This lecture is free and will be held in the meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library, 306 State Street in Hamilton. For more information, contact Sam’s Spade at 363-1293.

Sunday, June 13

Lone Rock Park Board

The Lone Rock division of the Ravalli County Park Board will meet Sunday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Three Mile Fire Hall.

Monday, June 14

Hamilton Schools summer food program

The Hamilton School District will sponsor a Summer Food Service Program, a USDA Child Nutrition Program that provides free, nutritious meals to children when school is not in session. Starting on June 14, breakfast will be served Monday through Thursday from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. at Westview Center, 103 9th Street. Lunch will be served from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Washington Elementary, 225 N. 5th. All children who reside in the Hamilton School District are welcome.

Junior Golf Seminar

A Junior Golf Seminar will be held June 14-16 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. each day at Whitetail Golf Course in Stevensville. Golf professional Ann Loughlin, LPGA/PGA, will instruct three days of golf. Loughlin owns Loughlin Golf and teaches golf full-time. She has won numerous teaching awards and teaches in Missoula at the University of Montana Golf Course and Canyon River Golf Course. Instruction will cover putting, chipping, pitching, full swing irons and woods and some on-course play. Cost is $90 and includes range balls, clubs, six hours of instruction and on-course play. Contact Ann Loughlin, 728-4676, to sing up. Deadline is June 11.

Baptist VBS

Vacation Bible School will be held June 14-18 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the First Baptist Church, 354 Cooper Lane, Hamilton. The theme is “Saddle Ridge Ranch” and children 3 years to 6th grade are welcome. For more information call 363-3735.

SAFE Crisis Line volunteer training

Become a valued member of the SAFE (Supporters of Abuse Free Environments) volunteer crisis line team to serve victims of domestic or sexual violence. Crisis line volunteers provide information and a listening ear to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault and other callers. Training will be held June 14 through 17 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the SAFE office in Hamilton.

Pre-registration is appreciated. A background check is required of all applicants.

Call Theresa Rivera, Volunteer Coordinator, 363-2793, for registration and information.

Hamilton Garden Club

The Hamilton Garden Club will meet Monday, June 14 at 6 p.m. for a potluck at the home of Betty Swift, 236 Rose Lane. For more information call Betty at 363-2172.

Christian concert

First Baptist Church, 354 Cooper Lane in Hamilton, will present an evening of song by Driven Quartet on Monday, June 14 at 7 p.m. A free will offering will be taken. This is a group of men “sold out to the Lord” and “driven” to do what God has called them to do, seek the lost and encourage the hurting. The have servants’ hearts and believe God has put them together to work for Him. Their group has tight harmony and their songs have a contemporary sound but they also showcase the old favorites that everyone enjoys at southern gospel concerts. To hear a sample go to: http://www.drivenqt.com. For more information call 363-3735.

Accordion Assn. summer workshop

The Five Valley Accordion Association will hold a summer workshop for youths and adults seeking to improve their accordion skills on June 14 and 15 at Lolo Hot Springs. Youths under 18 years old will be provided the workshops, lodging and meals by the association's scholarship fund. Adults will be charged $10 to $15. The sessions will be conducted by the accomplished Beverly Fees from Okotoks, Canada at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. There will be a campfire each evening with hot dogs and marshmallows. For more details, visit the web site at www.lolohotsprings.com, or call the lodge at 273-2201; Ethel Harris at 642-3836; Nancy Kopszywa at 961-3513; or Rennie Patterson at 360 3663.

Arboriculture seminar

The Daly Mansion Preservation Trust and McNeill’s Tree Service invite you to participate in a Principles of Arboriculture Seminar taking place at The Daly Mansion on Monday, June 14 at 4 p.m. Principles of Arboriculture will include information on the effects of what we do to and around trees regarding their health, wellbeing, and ultimately their longevity. The seminar, presented by Professor Bob Underwood, is geared towards the homeowner and gardener. Attendees will gain an understanding of the complex necessities of these large, woody perennials referred to as “trees.” Underwood is an associate professor with Dakota College in North Dakota who started out in the 1960s with Davey Tree Service. He has the ability to not only teach the subject but relate to it in the real world. It is an opportunity to learn about plant health care as it relates to trees. The cost of the seminar is $5.00. Due to limited seating, reservations are required. To make reservations, contact McNeill’s Tree Service at 375-5624 or the Daly Mansion at 363-6004.

Thursday, June 17

Water presentation

It’s been raining recently, but unless there is a sustained change in the weather with cool temperatures and continued moisture, this summer’s drought in the Bitterroot Valley will be one for the record books.

In order to update irrigators, anglers, and other water users, a number of agencies and groups are holding an informational meeting at the Hamilton Elks Club on Thursday, June 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. The title of the program is “Sharing Water in 2010: Parched Fields and Poached Trout.”

The meeting will feature short talks by Al Pernichele, Bitterroot Water Commissioner; Larry Schock, DNRC, Manager of Painted Rocks Reservoir, and Chris Clancy, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) Fisheries Biologist. Each speaker will provide important information about their particular area. Following the talks, there will be ample opportunity for discussion and questions. If you have an interest in how Bitterroot Valley water resources and fisheries will be managed this summer, you won’t want to miss this meeting.

The meeting is open to the public and there is no charge for admission. The Hamilton Elks Club is located at 203 State St in Hamilton.

For more information contact Laurie Riley (375-2272, brwaterforum@bitterroot.net) or Marshall Bloom (363-3485, drtrout@mtbloom.net)

Friday, June 18

Benefit rummage sale

The annual rummage sale to benefit the Stevensville Historical Museum and the Stevensville Playhouse will be held June 18-20 at the Museum, 517 Main. Friday and Saturday hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations of rummage sale items can be dropped off at the Museum.

Call 777-1007, Dora at 777-3239 or 777-2722 to arrange for drop-offs.

Western Heritage Days

Western Heritage Days will be held June 18 and 19 in downtown Stevensville. There will be a parade on Saturday morning, arts, crafts, vendors, sidewalk sales, food court and dance, as well as the second annual Barnyard Games on Saturday with a Calcutta on Friday night at the Full Moon Saloon. For information call the Stevensville Main Street office, 777-3773.

Saturday, June 19

Pancake breakfast

A pancake breakfast for the public will be held Saturday, June 19 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. The menu is pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, juice, fruit and coffee. Cost is $4 for adults and $2 for ages 12 and under.

Harmonica workshop

A free harmonica workshop will be held Saturday, June 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Music Box, 612 N. 1st St. in Hamilton. The harmonica is also known as the “mouth harp” and “blues harp.” Many people think of the harmonica as almost a toy, and don’t realize that it is, for many of its players, a serious instrument. This workshop presents the “serious” side of the harmonica.

The workshop will cover: various types of harmonicas that are available, and what each has to offer musically; examples of various styles of playing the harmonica; techniques such as tremolo, bending notes; using chords from your harmonica to accompany yourself as you play; accompaning your harmonica playing by simultaneously playing a second instrument such as a guitar, banjo, ukelele, etc. along with your harmonica playing; playing in major, minor, and blues scales on ordinary harmonicas; a very-short lesson on how to play a very-simple song on the harmonica; and a very-welcome “side effect” of harmonica playing: health benefits for persons with lung problems such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The workshop will be taught by M. Missouri Clem, aka Clem Small, who has enjoyed playing the harmonica for over 60 years. For questions concerning the workshop call Clem at 961-4949.

Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival

The Darby Library will hold a Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival on Saturday, June 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. There will be lots of games and great prizes and a magic show at 2 p.m.! All ages are welcome. The Summer Reading Program for children, teens and adults starts on June 19th also. Stop by the library and get a reading log and earn great prizes for reading this summer. For more information call 821-4771.

Teller TNT Dinner & Auction

The TNT Dinner & Auction on Saturday, June 19, is The Teller’s signature fundraising event, consisting of gourmet hors d’oeuvres and a sit-down dinner, a live and silent auction and raffles. The 16th annual gathering will be held behind the historic Slack Barn, overlooking 800 acres of The Teller and the Bitterroot Mountains beyond. Help “raise a few bucks” for fish and wildlife conservation and conservation education. Individual dinner tickets are $75. Visit http://www.theteller.org or call 961-3507 for more information. Call before June 11 to reserve your tickets!

Sunday, June 20

MSU Peaks & Potentials youth camp

Registration is now open for Montana State University’s Peaks and Potentials program, a week-long enrichment camp for middle school-aged students offered June 20-25 on the MSU campus. Peaks and Potentials is designed to give high-ability/high-potential students who will be entering grades 5-7 in the fall the opportunity to explore special topics of interest and work with experts in various subject areas. A recommendation from an appropriate school official is necessary for the student's acceptance. Sessions for this summer's camp include a variety of topics in the sciences, arts and humanities. Topics include metalworking, Yellowstone ecology, creative writing, and biology. Evening activities include swimming, volleyball, soccer and more. Instructors are MSU faculty, graduate students and experienced professionals from the area. University students and professionals act as director and counselors throughout the week. All classes emphasize personal instruction and small group interaction as well as a "hands-on" approach. Academic, recreational and social activities offer students a chance to interact with their peers and sample campus life. Students have the option of staying on campus or commuting to and from camp each day. Enrollment is limited, and the camp generally fills to capacity. Registrations are available through local schools and online at: http://eu.montana.edu/peaks/. The camp is sponsored by MSU Extended University. For more information, contact Susan Byorth at sbyorth@montana.edu or (406) 994-6683.

BEAR Yellowstone field trip

Attention area youth: BEAR (Bitterroot Ecological Awareness Resource) is guiding a trip to Yellowstone National Park, June 20-25. This trip is open to adventurous youth, ages 11-17. You’ll learn about the flora and fauna, the geysers, and the amazing wildlife. You’ll also be looping back through Grand Teton National Park to hike into the Grand Teton Range. Visit www.bearoutdooradventures.com to view the schedule and print out a registration packet, or call trip leader, Tina, at 375-9110.

Monday, June 21

Faith Lutheran VBS

“Gifts and Guides” will be the theme of Vacation Bible School at Faith Lutheran Church in Hamilton the week of June 21-25. Four counselors from Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp will lead bible-centered activities that include singing, community service, games, crafts, team building exercises, and worship. Youngsters from the age of three up to entering 6th grade are welcome to attend. Preschoolers will meet from 9 to 11:30 a.m. School-age children will meet from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Registration forms and information are available at the church office, 171 Lewis Lane (363-2964). Registration will be held in the narthex beginning at 8:15 a.m. on June 21. There is no charge to attend VBS; however, donations are gladly accepted to help with expenses.

Brain Injury Support Group Walk-a-thon

The Missoula Brain Injury Support Grou is hold a Walk-a-thon on Monday, June 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Big Sky High School track. What makes the Walk-a-thon so unique and special is that the group is celebrating the "victory of walking" for the many brain injury survivors who had to relearn how to walk, and others who are still very challenged with walking. A few members of the support group use wheelchairs, canes or walk with a limp. Join survivors, family members and caregivers in walking around the track. The money earned will purchase memberships to the State Brain Injury Association of Montana and also sponsor members to attend the 2011 State Brain Injury Conference. For more information contact Jim Mickelson, 544-6629.

Saturday, June 26

Pest control presentation

The Ravalli County Weed District will sponsor an information session on pest control on Saturday, June 26 at 10 a.m. at Bitterroot Nursery. This session will start at 10 a.m. and finish up around noon. Register at bitterrootnursery@gmail.com.

Card party and salad luncheon

A card party and salad luncheon will be held Saturday, June 26 at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. Lunch will be served at 12 noon with cards at 1 p.m. Cost is $5 per person. Pinochle and bridge players: bring your own foursome. There will be door prizes. For information call 363-5181.

FS Interpretive series

The Bitterroot National Forest invites you to join interpreters and naturalists for its 5-month evening interpretive series starting in June and going through October. Presentations will begin at 7 or 7:30 p.m. on the night of the full moon and last approximately 1-1/2 hours. This year prior to three of the evening programs there will also be a short walk. Featured topic for June: Saturday, June 26th – Surveyor Moon presentation at Charles Waters Campground, Bitterroot National Forest at 7:30 p.m.; guided hike at 6:30 p.m. Learn from professional surveyors about the history of surveying in the Bitterroot Valley; come and observe old and new survey methods and techniques. For additional information call 363-7100.

Tuesday, June 29

Darby Library Creation Stations

The Darby Library will hold Creation Stations on Tuesdays, June 29, July 13, and July 27 from 2 to 4 p.m. Come to the library and make a splash with these fun craft creations. Three different art activities will explore various materials; do just one or do them all! These activities are designed for children grades kindergarten and up, so if you have younger children, make sure someone comes along who can help them with the crafts. For more information call 821-4771.