Wednesday, July 14, 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.

Recovery support group

“High Noon” Meeting: A newly formed, peer-directed support group meets weekly on Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. at the Bison Internet Café, 164 S. 3rd in Hamilton. The Café is not open during meeting times. People in recovery from mental illness and/or substance abuse or addiction can find support and mentor help from group participants. All interested persons are invited to attend. Participants demonstrate hope and strength to each other, share resources and celebrate successes. The café’s open hours are Wednesday through Saturday, from 3 to 9 p.m. For more information, call during those hours or leave a message at 363-2222.

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.

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.

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 talk sessions

PEP (Personalized Employment Plan) talk sessions are held every Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Bitterroot College Program, 274 Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. PEP is a program designed by adult education and labor specialists to help you find job security and satisfaction, whether you are just starting out or wanting to start over. The PEP Talk < http://www.smartaboutcollege.org/get-to-college/pep-talk.jsp> introduces students to the Montana Career Information System (MCIS), a powerful online tool for self-assessment, career exploration, educational planning, and job search preparation. No appointment or registration is necessary; just drop by. For more information, call 375-0100 (BCP) or 363-2900 (Literacy Bitterroot).

Military kids’ camp

The Hamilton Rotary Club is inviting children ages 10–15 of Bitterroot Valley military personnel to spend July 29-31 camping at Lake Como. Many activities are planned including hiking, water skiing, and horseback riding. Sign up now, the deadline has been extended to June 18. For a sign-up form or for more information, email basscrk@bridgemail.com.

Darby food collection

During June and July, Darby Bread Box organizers are collecting shampoo and bars of bath soap. Drop off donations at People's Market, Bitterroot Community Credit Union or Darby Bread Box. The Bread Box is also holding a raffle of a yellow afghan. Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5 and proceeds will benefit the Darby Bread Box. The quilt can be seen at the Bitterroot Credit Union in Darby.

Mission Tours

Historic St. Mary's Mission is the story of remarkable people in a turbulent time, and the assimilation of two very different cultures against the backdrop of the American Frontier. The Salish encampment represents the native home of the Bitter Root Salish Indians, while St. Mary’s Mission represents the first pioneer settlement in Montana established in 1841. “Walk through history” and see, touch and hear this fascinating, dramatic, and important chapter of this nation’s past. Guided tours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 777-5734.

Wednesday, July 14

Elks dinner

Hamilton Elks are serving dinner to the public on Wednesday, July 14 from 6 to 6:30 at 203 State Street. The menu will be fish and chips with cole slaw, dessert and coffee. Cost is $8.00 and some of the proceeds help support the Elks scholarship fund.

Musical offering

Musician David Boone (davidboone.net) will perform Wednesday, July 14 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Blacksmith Brewing Company, 114 Main Street, in Stevensville. He will be playing a solo acoustic set featuring material from his upcoming album "Here's to Losing Control."

Thursday, July 15

Summer reading program performance

On Thursday, July 15, bring a blanket and meet on the west lawn of the Bitterroot Public Library to enjoy dancing by the River Street Dance Theater. Performance begins at 1:30 p.m. and lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Stevi school facility committee

The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet Thursday, July 15 at 12 noon in the superintendent’s office.

Back Country Horsemen

Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen host their second summer meeting on Thursday, July 15, at the Larry Creek Trailhead parking area. Potluck dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the general meeting starts at 7:00. The group welcomes special guest performer and Wyoming cowboy poet Shad Pease. Shad has performed throughout the western states, set the stage for Michael Martin Murphy, shared the stage with such notables as Chris Ledoux and Waddie Mitchell, and recorded three albums. Guests are welcome to attend, and for more information call Karen at 961-0101 or check the website at HYPERLINK "http://www.bchmt.org/bitterroot" www.bchmt.org/bitterroot.

Friday, July 16

Mature drivers course

AARP is presenting its driver safety program on Friday, July 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Marcus Daly Hospital. The fee is $14.00 or $12.00 for AARP card members and pre-registration is requested. There is no written test. Montana mandates an insurance discount for qualified graduates. Contact Jones Korman Insurance Agency at 363-6583 for registration information.

Toddler story time

It’s never too early to introduce your baby or toddler to the wonderful world of books and reading. Together you will discover the joy of songs, finger plays, simple books and bouncing rhymes. “Splish Splash Water Play,” the toddler story time for babies through age 2, will meet Friday, July 16 at 10:30 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Swimwear and towels are welcome. Toddler story time lasts approximately 45 minutes. For more information, call Sally at 363-1670.

North Valley Pachyderm Club

Montana Digital Academy Director Robert Currie will be the featured speaker at the North Valley Pachyderm Club on Friday, July 16 at noon at the Frontier Café on Hwy. 93 in Stevensville. The MTDA, under the leadership of Currie, will soon be off and running in schools all over Montana. Currie served six years as the Executive Director of the Michigan Virtual School. Under his guidance it became one of the largest virtual schools in the U.S. In rural areas where there may not be the same educational opportunities, classes can be available from the best teachers importing cutting-edge subject matter. All who have an interest in public, home schooling or expanding course opportunities will find this presentation of interest. Parents, educators, legislators, and students will benefit from this opportunity to hear Currie. The public is welcome. 

Saturday, July 17

Pancake breakfast

A pancake breakfast for the public will be held Saturday, July 17 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th. The menu will be pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, juice, fruit and coffee. Cost is $4 for adults and $2 for ages 12 and under.

Floating Weed Pull

Join the Ravalli County Weed District on Saturday, July 17 for the 5th annual Bitterroot Floating Weed Pull to remove noxious weeds on a stretch of the Bitterroot River. Participants will float from the bridge north of Hamilton to Woodside Crossing, stopping along the way to pull noxious weeds and pick up garbage. A shuttle will run participants from the take out to the put in from 8 to 8:45. The float will begin around 9 a.m. and finish around 1 p.m. Lunch and prizes for all participants will be waiting at Woodside Crossing. Call Melissa at 777-5842 for more details and to register.

Yoga-Ride Retreat

Join expert equitation instructor Malika B. Coston and renowned yoga instructor Veronica Brown as they integrate the intuitive elements of natural equitation and healing yoga/body-work sessions to bring out the best in both horse and rider in a beautiful ranch setting at Kootenai Creek Equestrian Center in Stevensville. The two-day retreat is July 17-18, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information and registration contact Kathy Luedtke at 777-7127, kathyluedtke@q.com or web: HYPERLINK "http://montanahorsecenter.com" http://montanahorsecenter.com.

Travelers’ Rest food event

Travelers’ Rest State Park will host a Montana cooking and food heritage event on Saturday, July 17 from 12 to 4 p.m. that will feature foods from the Lewis & Clark Expedition, campfire cooking, Salish meals made from wild foods and a Dutch oven cook-off.

Event participants will have a chance to sample dishes from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, including trout, fried bread, fruit compote, and more, and to learn about the culinary ups and downs of expedition life.

The event will also feature campfire chefs Lisa Simon and Bethann Cogswell as they share tips and tools of campfire cooking and prepare a few tasty dishes over the open flames for the audience to sample.

Salish Tribal member Frances Vanderburg will be on hand to share a traditional Salish dish made from wild foods available in western Montana and will tell stories about Salish plant foods, gathering techniques, and storage methods.

Visitors will also have a chance to join in the excitement as Travelers’ Rest hosts a professionally judged Dutch oven cooking competition sanctioned by the International Dutch Oven Society. When the results are in, visitors will have the opportunity to sample the wares and decide for themselves whose breads, entrees, and desserts are the most delicious.

This event is part of the summer “Discover Travelers’ Rest” series which continues on Saturday, Aug. 21 with “Arts, Crafts, and Trades,” featuring brain tanning, porcupine quillwork, hand spinning, traditional Nez Perce beading, moccasin-making, leather work and more. The event is $2 per adult while youth 18 and under are free. To reach the park, travel approximately 1/2 mile west of Lolo on Highway 12 to the park entrance.

Although the event runs from 12-4 p.m. only, Travelers’ Rest State Park is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day through Aug. 31. For more information, call 273-4253.

SNAP Day 

On Saturday, July 17 at the Hamilton Farmers Market, SNAP participants will have a chance to increase their buying power. The Bitterroot Farmers Market Project is sponsoring "SNAP Day" to help raise the awareness of SNAP recipients that they can use their EBT cards to purchase fruits, vegetables, baked goods, eggs, honey, jams, meat and other approved food items (including herb and vegetable plants) from market vendors. SNAP participants can now swipe their EBT cards at the market information booth and receive plastic tokens to purchase market goods. The first 50 card holders who buy $10 in tokens on July 17 will receive an additional free $4 to be used at that day's market (only one offer per SNAP participant). For more information, check at the Hamilton Information Booth or call Cheryl Kikkert at 360-9587.

St. Paul’s Heritage Tea

Gather your friends and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in a delightful setting. St. Paul's Women's Guild is hosting a Heritage Afternoon Tea fundraiser on Saturday, July 17. The tea is being held at Lynda and Paul Nelson's historic stone house on the corner of 4th and DeSmet in Hamilton's Historic District. Tickets are $25.00. There are two seatings, at 1 and 3 p.m. Call June Vandendries at 961-3890 for reservations.

Bannack Days 

Each year during the third weekend in July the old ghost town of Bannack comes alive in a celebration of pioneer life. This year, the annual Bannack Days Festival will be held on July 17 and 18. Activities will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday and run until 5 p.m., then again from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Some of those activities include: horse and wagon rides, shootouts, gold panning, candle making, and black powder shooting. Guests may also enjoy some cowboy poetry and old time music. As they step back in time, they might check out a mountain man camp, Doc Hall’s Medicine show, an 1800’s U. S. Cavalry camp, and much more. There is something for everyone, along with plenty of food and drink. For more information please call the Bannack State Park at (406) 834-3413.

Sunday, July 18

Stevensville Playhouse auditions

The Stevensville Playhouse will be holding auditions for “The Music Man” on Sunday and Monday, July 18 and 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. at 319 Main Street in Stevensville.

Con man Harold Hill travels to the small town of River City, Iowa to earn his fortune. He decides to convince the town that they need a boy’s band and plans to run away once the boys have paid for instruments and uniforms. His scheme is moving along perfectly until Harold falls in love with the town piano teacher, Marian. Even though she knows that he’s a con man, she still loves him for the hope that he brought to the town. Harold, on the other hand, is inspired by Marian’s goodness, reveals his secrets to the town and becomes an honest man. There are parts for: boys ages 8-10 (2); girls ages 8-10 (2); boys ages 11-15 (2); girls ages 11-15 (5); men and women ages 16-25 (6 each); men and women ages 26+ (10 each); Barbershop Quartet; Brass band and snare drum. The male lead has been cast, not all parts have significant lines, but all will be dancing and singing. Auditions will consist of cold reading, learning and performing part of a song and dance, and/or a short portion of a song of your choice. Show runs October 8-24. For information call the theatre at 777-2722.

Monday, July 19

Vacation Bible School

Our Savior Lutheran Church of Stevensville offers Vacation Bible School the week of July 19-23 free of charge and open to children ages three through 12. This year's theme is The Five Words of Understanding. The fish is a symbol of the Christian Church because each letter of the Greek word for fish stands for a name or title of the Lord. Bring your child or grandchild to Our Savior to learn the words that tell the truth about Jesus.

Crafts, music, games, Bible lessons and activities are featured daily from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Registration begins at 8:45 a.m. only on Monday, the 19th. Our Savior, located at 184 Pine Hollow Road, is affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Call 777-5625 weekday mornings for details.

Brain Injury Support Group

The Missoula Brain Injury Support Group will hold its annual picnic for brain injury survivors and special others on Monday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. at Franklin Park, corner of Kemp and 10th St, in Missoula. All TBI survivors and caregivers are invited. Hot chicken wraps, salads and beverages will be provided. For reservations send $2 per person by July 13 to Jim Mickelson, 2055 Roundup Dr., Missoula MT 59808. For more information call 544-6629.

Wednesday, July 21

Golden Age picnic

The Golden Age Club annual summer picnic for members and guests will be held Wednesday, July 21 at 6 p.m. at the hall, 727 S. Fifth, Hamilton. The club will furnish fried chicken; those attending should bring a salad, vegetable or dessert and their own table setting. Jean Roberts and her group will play for listening and dancing after the meal.

Devotional singing

Take a little time out on Wednesday, July 21 to enjoy harmonies and easy melodies from the world’s spiritual traditions at Common Ground Center, 258 Roosevelt Lane, Hamilton. Led by Brian Vayu Jameson whose gentle nature and humor encourages even shy singers. Live music. No experience necessary. All are welcome.

Thursday, July 22

Stevensville school facility committee

The Stevensville School Board Facility Committee will meet Thursday, July 11 at 12 noon in the superintendent’s office.

South Valley Civic Group

The South Valley Civic Group (SVCG), an organization of business owners and community leaders from Charlos Heights, Conner, Darby, East Fork, Sula and West Fork, will meet Thursday, July 22, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Naughty Moose in Conner. For questions, call Adele Dicken at 821-3405.

Friday, July 23

Florence Clean-up Day 

There will be a highway/community clean-up day in Florence on Friday, July 23, sponsored by the Florence Civic Club. The weeds will be at their peak, so this is really an important clean-up day. Anyone interested is invited to attend, and the event qualifies for community service hours for students at Florence High School. Participants will be treated to ice cream or soda at Caffé Firenze after the clean-up. Volunteers should bring gloves and hand tools and meet at the Town Pump parking lot at 9 a.m. to pick up bags and get site assignments.

This is a great chance to get out in the fresh air and make your hometown look great. Bring your friends and neighbors! Call 396-7300 with questions.

Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival

The second Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival will be held July 23-25. Festival site is ten miles south of Hamilton on the beautiful Heiland and Thomas ranches located on Forest Hill Road. The new festival hosts 10 local and regional bluegrass bands, kids in Bluegrass, as well as individual featured pioneers of Northwest bluegrass. Admission is $10 for the weekend (under 12 years old is $5). Camping is $10 for the weekend. For more info visit hardtimesbluegrass.com, or call Mike of Tari Conroy at 821-3777.

Art show

Bitterroot Art Guild in Hamilton is having its 40th “Art in the Park” on Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Legion Park in Hamilton. Lots of art and crafts will be for sale, with proceeds going towards a scholarship fund for local students.

Saturday, July 24

Mansion Daly Days

Visit the Daly Mansion as the community celebrates Daly Days in honor of Hamilton’s heritage on Saturday, July 24. The Georgian Revival version of the Daly Mansion was completed in 1910 and the mansion is celebrating “100 Years of Mansion Memories - Looking Forward to 100 More.” You are invited to step back in time as life during the past 100 years is re-created in the Mansion and on the grounds. Festivities will include re-enactors, demonstrations, antique farm equipment and cars, pony rides, Daly family home movies, self-guided tours, a bake sale, music by the Bitterroot Ragtime Society, performances by Ballet Bitterroot featuring Calamity Jane, hamburgers and hot dogs, and more. Also, see a special 100 Years Of Mansion Memories Exhibit and share your own memories of the Mansion on the Memory Board. Admission to the grounds and grounds activities are free. Daly Days reduced entrance fees to the Mansion will be $5.00 for adults and children twelve and under will be admitted free. The same reduced tour price will also be available on Friday, July 23. For more information, call 363-6004, ext. 3#.

St. Paul’s Ice Cream Social and Tours

There will be an Ice Cream Social and Tours of the Historical St. Paul's Episcopal Church during Daly Days on Saturday, July 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 601 S. 3rd. St. A trolley wagon will depart from the Post Office and will provide a tour through Hamilton's historical district. People can disembark at the church for the tour and ice cream social and return on the next trolley or walk six blocks to Main Street. Margaret Daly, wife of copper king and lumber baron Marcus Daly, was a parishioner and a prominent financial building contributor. The wood frame structure incorporated elements typical of British ecclesiastical architecture and its pointed arched windows, decorative wooden tracery, steeply pitched rooflines and square towers allude to the denomination's English roots. The interior ceiling is intended to remind worshipers of an inverted Noah's ark. The towers, originally asymmetrical, were modified in later years. The seven stained glass windows were more recently added and each depict a biblical story. Relax at the lawn tables and enjoy a Haagen Dazs ice cream or sundae. All sale proceeds will benefit the Historical Preservation Fund to restore the church. Ice cream socials and pancake suppers were the major fundraisers for the initial building of the church. For more information contact Terry Moran at 363-7656 or 531-4545.

Chalkfest

Express your artistic side at the Third Annual Chalkfest on Saturday, July 24 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Sam’s Spade Garden Tools and Wares, 111 S. Fourth Street in Hamilton. Help celebrate Daly Days in a most colorful way, using the sidewalk as your canvas and colorful chalk provided free of charge. Even if you don’t participate, stop by during Daly Days festivities to view the fabulous artwork and vote for the People’s Choice Award. Prizes will be given in six children’s categories and one for adults. Space is limited so stop in early. For more information, call Sam’s Spade at 363-1293.

Mural contest recognition party

There will be a recognition party on Saturday, July 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for the students who participated in the Mural Contest for River Park Storage, 17 Red Ranch Road, Stevensville (across from Super 1). The party is open to the public. Snacks and refreshments will be served and there will be a drawing for a gift certificate. Bring your family and friends and come see the winning murals.

Dances of Universal Peace

Dances of Universal Peace will be held Saturday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. at First Christian Church, 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. The dances are simple circle dances based on the world’s spiritual traditions that inspire harmony and community. Each dance is taught each time, and children are welcome. There will be live music and refreshments. Call Star at 363-4026 for more information.

Monday, July 26

Vacation Bible School

It's “Mad Science” at Stevensville First Baptist Vacation Bible School. Preschool through 6th grade children are welcome July 26-30 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon for Bible stories, fun songs, games, snacks ... see how science can help us know more about God. First Baptist Church is located at 402 Church Street, Stevensville. Contact Karen Summerfield for more information, 273-2292.

USFS Moonwalk presentation

The Bitterroot National Forest invites you to join interpreters and naturalists for an 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. On Monday, July 26, there will be a “Skull Moon” presentation at Upper Lake Como Campground, Bitterroot National Forest at 7:30 p.m.; guided hike at 6:30 p.m. During the presentation learn from Fred Weisbecker, retired Fish and Game Officer and Bitterroot Backcountry Horseman educator about the skulls of wildlife found in the Bitterroot Valley. See if you can identify the skulls and learn how the skeletons and skulls of these animals are highly adapted for survival techniques. For additional information call the USFS Office at 363-7100.

Saturday, July 31

SAFE Family Fun Dance

Healthy families dance together. Come boogie with your loved ones at the Family Fun Dance on Saturday, July 31, in Hamilton’s Legion Park. Dancing starts at 9:30 a.m. and continues until 12:30 p.m. This event will include performances by Chip Jasmin, GROOVZ studio of dance, and Tony Dees as well as group instruction on a variety of fun, silly dances such as the Bunny Hop, the Hokey Pokey, and The Twist. There will be a scavenger hunt with prizes at 11:30 a.m. This event is free and open to all who want to have some family fun. For more information, contact the Ravalli County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence at SAFE by calling 363-2793.

Saturday, July 31

Renaissance Faire

The Hamilton Players will hold a Renaissance Faire on Saturday, July 31 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Claudia Driscoll Park in Hamilton. This will be an epic re-imagining of an historical Renaissance marketplace. There will be costumed vendors, specialty handcrafts, traditional food, demonstrations, hourly performances, and games, along with a heavy sprinkling of lords, ladies, wenches, pirates, and even a fairy or two! With a restricted beer garden for adults and plenty of fun games and activities for families, this is one event you won’t want to miss! An event schedule will be available online and at the gate. Costumed participation is encouraged and costume rental and consultation is available at the Hamilton Playhouse, 100 Ricketts Rd., July 29 and 30, 4 to 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.hamiltonplayers.com or call the Box Office at 375-9050, Tues.-Fri., 1-5 p.m.

Creamery Picnic Parade

Creamery Picnic celebration the first weekend of August traditionally includes a Grand Parade, and this year is no exception. Participants are encouraged to sign up early for the Parade either in person at Rocky Mountain Bank, Stevensville, or download an application online at HYPERLINK "http://www.creamerypicnic.com" www.creamerypicnic.com. The Parade will take place Saturday, August 7 at 11 a.m.

Classic cars, horse entries, civic groups and commercial entries are all welcome in the Parade. This year’s theme is ‘Celebrate 98’. Early entries pay a $5 entry fee to help offset the Civic Club’s costs of renting equipment, purchasing awards, additional security, etc. involved in the event. Entries received after August 1 will pay an $8 entry fee, and parade day entries will be $10. Entries will be judged between 9:45 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. the morning of the Parade. No entries will be accepted after 10:30 a.m.; submit your entry in advance and line up early in order to participate. Include all pertinent information when completing your entry form, so that the announcers may give you and your organization full credit for your efforts. For more information, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.creamerypicnic.com" www.creamerypicnic.com, or contact Robin Holcomb at Rocky Mountain Bank, Stevensville, 777-7804.

Saturday, August 21

Big Sky Dowsers convention

Big Sky Dowsers Association will meet at Park City, Montana on August 21 and 22, at the Park City Senior Center, 2nd Avenue SW, Park City, Montana. The Dowsers meet at various locations in Montana and members come from Montana, Wyoming and other states.

Dowsing is interesting and a highly valuable skill which most people can learn with a little instruction. Come to the convention to learn, not just about dowsing, but to see it demonstrated and to learn the technique. Newcomers, young and old, are encouraged to attend.

School of Instruction starts Saturday morning at 9 a.m. There will be demonstrations of L-rods, the pendulum and map dowsing. Sunday morning the group will participate in a field trip nearby to dowse for water and practice the lessons learned at the previous day's session. Then it’s back to the Civic Center for lunch and to compare results and dowsing techniques.

For more information contact Gary Watt, President, (406) 443-4753, e-mail: gwatt@mt.net.

Monday, September 13

College prep classes for veterans 

The UM-COT will offer free college prep classes for qualified veterans through the Montana Veterans Upward Bound program. Classes in math, writing and basic computer skills will be held Tuesday, September 14 through Wednesday, November 3. They will take pace Monday through Thursday at the COT campus, 909 South Ave. W. in Missoula. Orientation will be held Monday, September 13 from 5 to 6 p.m. in the COT Commons. For more information or to enroll, call 877-356-VETS.