Christmas in the Bitterroot - 2018

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

• Shopping Guide • Business Features • Holiday Happenings • and more!

Bitterroot Star

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Holiday Happenings Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Sharing Tree donations needed

The Stevensville Sharing Tree program is in need of donations. Sharing Tree provides approximately 300 local needy children ages 0 to 18 with warm winter clothing, personal hygiene items and a toy for Christmas. These children are represented in banks within Stevensville by tags; unfortunately, not every tag gets chosen. For the tags that are not chosen, Sharing Tree purchases new warm winter clothing and personal hygiene items. This year, the Sharing Tree needs to raise $5,000 to meet these needs. If you are able to donate new warm winter clothing in any size such as coats, snow pants and snow boots, bring your items to any of the Stevensville banks. For tax deductible donations, make checks payable to Sharing Tree and mail to P.O. Box 747, Stevensville MT 59870.

For more information, contact Linda Page at 214-1839 or Beth Perkins at 207-5748.

Audubon calendars available

Bitterroot Audubon has the perfect gift to send to loved ones. It is lightweight, packs easily and shows off the beauty of the Bitterroot so well. It is the 2019 Bitterroot Audubon Calendar featuring some of the stunning avian friends that live here. The photos were taken by talented Bitterroot photographers with drawings of birds by Victor 4th and 5th graders. These useful and informative calendars are only $15 and the proceeds stay in the valley for Bitterroot Audubon’s work on conservation, education and scholarship projects.

Help a local non-profit help the valley’s habitat and wildlife! Calendars available at: Florence and Stevensville Ace, Valley Drug and Variety, Noah’s Ark, Corvallis Merc, Hamilton Gifts, Bitterroot Drug, Robbins Hallmark and Art Focus.

Ravalli Electric Co-op Warming Tree

Employees at Ravalli Electric Co-op are sponsoring their third annual REC Warming Tree in an effort to help keep the community warm this winter. The co-op is collecting new or gently used winter wear items such as gloves, hats, scarves, blankets, and socks.

Donations can be brought to the co-op at 1051 Eastside Hwy in Corvallis until December 21.

Thursday, December 13 Genesis House open house

Genesis House, a transitional group home for women with mental illness, will hold its annual Christmas open house and buffet on Thursday, December 13th at 5 p.m. The public will have an opportunity to visit with the residents, staff and Board of Directors, eat lots of good food, watch the residents open up their presents and sing Christmas carols.

For more information contact Donna Thompson, Program Director.

Selway-Pintler Wilderness Back Country Horsemen

The SPWBCH will celebrate the holiday season by having a Christmas potluck at the next general meeting on Thursday, December 13 at 6 p.m. in the Hamilton Forest Service Building. Entertainment will be a BCH of MT - “Who Are We?” musical slideshow. It’s that time of year for membership renewals, elections and a look back on a great summer of projects, packing and mountain trails. Guests are always welcome to join for fun, friendship and lots of “trail talk.” Entrance is in the rear. For more information contact Kathy at 363-8230.

Saturday, December 15 Corvallis Methodist Bazaar

Celebrate Christmas with the holiday bazaar at Corvallis United Methodist Church, Eastside Hwy & Cemetery Road, on Saturday, December 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a bake sale and lunch of soup, sandwich and pie available. Proceeds benefit Bitterroot mission projects.

Children’s Shopping Day

The Stevensville Clothes Closet helps to make the holidays happy for all! The Annual Children’s Shopping Day will take place on Saturday, December 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a time for children to come and “shop” for their Christmas gifts. There is no charge or fee. Just another service of the Clothes Closet or as some call it, “The Free Store. This is an event where the children can find gifts that otherwise would not be possible for them to get. There will be adults present to help when needed. This is a time for just the kids to shop, parents do not assist. If you would like to help you can volunteer to work or donate some very gently used items that could be used for gifts. Gifts for men are always needed. The Clothes Closet is located at 3862 ALC Way in Stevensville; phone 406-777-5694.

2nd Annual Community Tree Lighting

2nd Annual Community Tree Lighting hosted by Lolo Lions Club will be held Saturday, December 15 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Lolo Community Center, 12345 Hwy 93 South. Activities include: Santa Greeting, Santa Hayride, Cookie Decorating, Ornament Making, Chili Feed, Chili Dogs, Hot Cocoa and Smores. Bring your family and support the Kester Park Playground. No charge; donate what you can or bring a non-perishable food item for Lolo Food Bank. For more information contact Eileen Nelson, 529-1819.

See MORE HAPPENINGS, page 4

The Prince of Peace is born!

Our Savior, Who is Christ the Lord!

You are warmly invited to join us for the celebration of Christmas

Sunday, December 16th Family Music Christmas Program Service – 10:30AM Monday, December 24th Christmas Eve Candlelight Service – 7:00PM Grace Lutheran Church • 275 Hattie Lane

Hamilton • 363-1924

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry – A one-of-a-kind place Located at the corner of Second and Main, Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry is a cornerstone of downtown Hamilton retail. Cindy Mikesell has been the proprietor of Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry for 35 years. Her designs are unique and beautiful and done with an expertise that is unsurpassed. Here, whether you are looking for a one of a kind design or having a family heirloom revitalized, you have the opportunity to speak directly to the designer.

Cindy and Susan Wetzsteon make the trip to Tucson every February where they browse through acres and acres of vendors. They are always on the lookout for something new and different in the world of jewelry and fine gems.

“We like different,” said Susan.

During the year, some of their customers may request special stones or settings and this is a good place to locate these items. Cindy and Susan especially keep an eye open for one of a kind stones that they feel will grab someone’s attention in the store. Many of these pieces will be on display at their annual open house on Friday, December 14th, and Saturday, December 15th. The store will be open until 8 on Friday and until 4pm on Saturday.

Both Cindy and Susan will have their unique designs on display and offered for sale.

Along with these pieces, there are many other jewelry items to look over and put on a wish list. From gold and sterling pendants and earrings to Montana Sapphires in any number of

The staff at Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry is here to hep you de-stress your holiday shopping. Pictured from left to right: Holly, SueAnn, Susan, Brook, Cindy, Leah and LaDonna. settings, Mikesell’s is the place to shop for that special someone. They even have some really beautiful pieces of jewelry made out of elk ivory.

The staff always greets you like the neighbors you are. They are knowledgeable about the jewelry and can help select that perfect piece whether it is a traditional or modern necklace, earrings, or rings. The stones and settings are just what you want with the quality you expect. All the staff works with the customer to make sure their shopping experience is special.

Local Author Event!

Melissa Stephenson will be reading from her book ‘Driven’

With the ‘big’ day fast approaching, Mikesell’s will host a Men’s Panic Party on December 21 from 5pm to 8pm. And remember the wish list that women filled out earlier in the month?

Purchase off your sweetie’s list and receive an additional 10 percent off..

Stop in during the holiday season to find that perfect gift. The selection at Mikesell’s has something for everyone. From diamonds to Montana sapphires to turquoise, and every stone (and color) in between, there is sure to be something for the special people in

your life. Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry is normally open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4p.m. They are open seven days a week until Christmas - Monday - Thursday 10-5:30, Fridays, 10 - 8:00, Saturdays 10-4:00, and Sundays 11 - 4:00. They will be open Christmas Eve from 10am to 4pm.

Mikesell’s is located at 201 W. Main St. in Hamilton and their phone number is 406-363-6236 or their website is www. mikesellsfinejewelry.com or catch up with them on Facebook.

“One-of-a-Kind Night For your one and only!”

Open House

Fri, Dec 14th • 7pm

You are invited!

Richard Drake will be reading from his book ‘Charles Austin Beard: The Return

of the Master Historian of American Imperialism’ Fri, Dec 14th • 7pm

252 Main St. Hamilton, MT • 363-5220 • www.chapter1bookstore.com

Stevensville Farmers Market Crafters

Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 15th 9:00am - 3:00pm American Legion Hall 754 Middle Burnt Fork, Stevensville

Don’t miss the party! Enter to win a beautiful one of a kind Montana Sapphire & Sterling Silver Pendant. Join Cindy, Susan and the Mikesell’s staff for great savings, food, fun and spirits. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, drinks and discounts at the annual Open House. Open ‘til 8p.m. Friday night, December 14th, Saturday, December 15th ‘til 4p.m.

Discover the best of Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry’s personal selection of ONE OF A KIND Jewelry. Take advantage of Holiday discounts on all in stock jewelry.

Enter to Win Enter to Win this one-of-a-kind Montana Sapphire and Sterling Silver 201 W. Main St. Hamilton, Pendant. Mt 59840 406-363-6236

COME & SHOP FOR Home Made Crafts • Christmas Gifts Local Jewelry & Artists • Jams, Jellies Baked Goods • Handmade Cards Lunch will be available for purchase by the American Legion Auxiliary Ladies

Christmas Catalog 2018 take 7.indd 6

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More Holiday Happenings Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Democratic Christmas potluck

The Ravalli County Democratic Central Committee is hosting a Christmas Potluck and meeting on Saturday, December 15 at 5 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange, 1436 S. 1st (Highway 93) in Hamilton. Bring a dish to share and a toy to give. Drinks and utensils provided. Contact Corrine Gantt for information, (406) 544-8586.

Sunday, December 16

Adventure Series

“Winter Wonderland Collage” will be the theme of the free Adventure Series for Kids on Saturday, December 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Ravalli County Museum.

Create a mixed media collage and express your joy for winter solstice and a white Christmas! The museum is located at 205 Bedford, Hamilton, 363-3338.

Cozy Crafts at Library

Christmas at the Rescue

Come enjoy the end of year fundraiser for the Gentle Giants and celebrate Christmas at the Rescue on Sunday, December 16 from 12 noon to 5 p.m. at 326 Popham Lane, Corvallis. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy wagon rides, hot chocolate, Christmas stolen. Raffle tickets available for a stunning print from artist Linda Pault! Tack sale and much more! All proceeds will benefit the horses! For more information contact Jasmin Shinn, (406)493-4978.

Rotary Club

“What Christmas Means to Me” will be shared by two Rotarians at the next meeting of the Hamilton Rotary Club, on Monday, December 17 at 12 noon at at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. The meeting is open to the public, and visitors are welcome. For further Rotary Club information, call 363-2960.

Friday, December 21 Christmas Dinner Dance

Saturday, December 22

A Christmas Dinner Dance will be held Friday, December 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Bedford Building, 223 S. 2nd in Hamilton. This will be a fund raiser for the Bitterroot Dragon Brigade, a non-profit youth group made up of kids from all over our valley. It will feature a chef made dinner and dessert, beautiful decorations and music and dancing

by DJ EPP. Craft beer and wine will be available for purchase. This is a family friendly event. Cost is $15 per person; tickets are available at the Canyons Athletic Club. Call for more information, (406)360-5420.

Get Cozy with “Hygge” Cozy Crafts (pronounced hue-guh) at North Valley Public Library on Saturday, December 22 at 12 noon. Hygge is the embodiment of cozy comfort and is especially important during the cold dark winter months. The library is hosting a Hygge Cozy Craft day each month throughout the winter. Stop by to relax, make holiday crafts and enjoy hot drinks and snacks. This program is open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 406-777-5061 or visit northvalleylibrary.org. All library programs are free and open to the public.

Saturday, January 12 Beekeeping class

Beekeepers of the Bitterroot will be conducting a “Beginning Beekeepers Class” on Saturday, January 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bitterroot Conference Center in Hamilton. The class will cover getting started, equipment needed, bee anatomy and biology, diseases, pests, feeding, and other topics. The class will be valuable to beginners and for experienced beekeepers. If you are interested in keeping bees or just learning more about beekeeping this class is for you. For a class synopsis and registration information go to our website at https://www.beekeepersofthebitterroot.org. Cost for the class will be $20 which includes lunch.

Help for families dealing with addiction

With the opiate crisis running rampant, families are looking for ways to help those they love who need treatment. Getting them into treatment becomes even harder if their loved one is not willing. This is when Intervention can become key. To learn more about successful interventions, visit https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/intervention-101.html Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family.

Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800-431-1754

Holiday Party Ideas - Look no furthur than

Triple 7 Liquor

One of a kind liquor gifts for the Holidays!

Expanded Wine & Made in Montana Section . 301 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-5591

Have happy holidays at the Tin Can! Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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trivia, cribbage, dart league and pool league. Have an event? The Tin Can also hosts private events in the Draft Room.

What would a bar be without libations? Of course, they have an extensive selection of spirits as well as local beers and wines. Join the Can Club and receive specials such as $3 craft and micro beers and $2 domestic beer on Tuesdays, along with a free beer and entree on your birthday. Can of the day receives a free beer. Other great specials are offered throughout the week for non-club members. Every Friday is Jacked Up Friday with $3 shots of Jack Daniels Whiskey.

Being a part of the community is important to both Nicholas and Courtney. That is why you will often find the Tin Can hosting pint nights for local non-profits to help out. They are always looking for opportunities to team up with organizations to host events at the Draft Room. So, if you have an organization in need, give Nicholas or Courtney a call at the Tin Can at (406)625-2627! Come in on December 19th for pint night to support the Local Toys for Tots.

If you haven’t been in to the Tin Can yet, stop in at 207 Main, say hi, see the new look, have good times, great drinks and some yummy food.

By Liz Cook

The Tin Can is nestled on Main Street in the heart of downtown Stevensville. Owners Nicholas Burgess and Courtney Schiller opened the Tin Can in August of this year after putting the bar through an extensive remodel after purchasing the building earlier in the summer. They wanted to put a fresh spin on the place by making it feel modern and inviting, all while staying true to the integrity of a Montana theme. The couple really love Stevensville and all the charm it offers.

That love, combined with the fact each of them were both in the service industry before, led them to make their dream of owning their own business a reality.

The two hit the ground running once they purchased the business and have worked hard to transform The Tin Can into a unique, family friendly place for the people of the Bitterroot. They have plans to expand their kitchen and add more food to their menu. Currently they offer street tacos and pork sliders daily, with different food specials offered for special events. In addition to food, Nicholas and Courtney wanted to bring other unique events to the Draft Room. That is why you can find them hosting local live music, yoga hour, community pint nights, and holiday parties. On December 22nd, you can come dressed in your favorite ugly sweater and compete in their ugly sweater contest!

Additionally, look for karaoke, bingo,

Nicholas Burgess and Courtney Schiller welcome you to the Tin Can in downtown Stevensville.

Gift Certificates are always GREAT Christmas gifts

Host Yo ur Private Event H ere!

Gift Certificates Available

Mission Bistro Nightly Fish Specials

Sunday Brunch for the entire family

Upcoming Events Sunday Dec 16th

Yoga with Andrea 11am

Wednesday Dec 19th Pint Night - Toys for Tots

Saturday Dec 22nd

Ugly Sweater Contest 7pm

Wed - Sat 5 - 10pm • Sunday Brunch 9am - 3pm 777-6945 • 225 Main, Stevensville • www.missionbistromt.com

Now Offering Shake-a-Day! 207 Main St . Stevensville (406) 625-2627

A family of volunteers paying it Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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By Christin Rzasa

When Beth Perkins took over as Program Coordinator for the Stevensville Sharing Tree nine years ago, she asked her good friend Linda Page to help. Neither could have suspected the lasting impact that request would have.

“I thought it would be a good way for me to get out and get to know our little town,” Page says. The Stevensville Sharing Tree makes it possible for parents of lowincome families to provide new clothing for

their children for Christmas. “To be honest,” Page adds, “we’ve used the Sharing Tree ourselves, when we needed help.” She has been “paying it forward” in a huge way ever since.

Each year in mid-October, the Stevensville Pantry Partners makes Sharing Tree applications available to parents who list clothing items their children need. Page and her daughters, Karmen and Danielle, then create a tag for each child noting necessary information (age, gender, clothing and shoe sizes, favorite colors) and deliver the

NOW OP E N ! ! !

Peace of Mind

tags to be hung on special Christmas trees located around town. Community members wishing to lend a hand can “adopt” a tag, purchase the items, and drop them off at any of the facilities handing out the tags. Shortly before Christmas, the Sharing Tree then hosts a “Distribution Day” where applicants pick up the gift bags to take home, wrap and put under their own Christmas tree. The list can include specific requirements, like warm coats or snow boots, as well as basic clothing. Jeans are a popular request for teenagers.

Page’s enthusiasm for the program is unmistakable – especially Distribution Day. “We LOVE it when the parents come in – their faces just light up when they see what there is for the kids!”

There are other ways to support this generous program, for those who don’t enjoy the hustle of Christmas shopping.

Because some of the tags remain unfulfilled after the deadline (for this year, it’s December 12), the Sharing Tree also accepts tax-deductible monetary contributions that are used to purchase those remaining items. And Page says they can always use more volunteers, not only to organize and collate donations during the last three months of the year, but also on Distribution Day, which is scheduled this year for December 18 at the Light of the Valley Church. (Toys

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forward with Sharing Tree, more Wednesday, December 12, 2018

for Tots will hold their Christmas distribution at the Church on this day as well.)

Page’s benevolent spirit has clearly been passed along to her children. Over the years, the whole family has been integral to the Sharing Tree program. When Linda’s son, Zack, was in school, he joined the effort, organizing and handing out bags during distribution. Her husband, Kelby, helps with the shopping trips – Karmen says he’s “great with figuring out the young men’s sizes!” When it comes to shopping, they have “a system,” with each family member specializing in clothing items for a particular gender or age group.

Karmen and Danielle both share their mother’s zeal, not just for the Sharing Tree but for helping others, despite Page’s assertion that she “volun-told them they were assisting” that first year.

“I just love doing it!” Karmen insists, so much so that after three years of working with her mother and Perkins, she took on the program as her Senior Project, which she initiated in her junior year at Stevensville High School. “There’s a lot of life-skills involved with it that you can carry over into a job,” Karmen points out. She’d previously aided her mother with the handson aspects – creating the tags, purchasing items, collating and distributing gift bags – but through her Project she learned the accounting and data-control skills necessary to run the program. Even after high school, Karmen continued to volunteer with the Sharing Tree on her Christmas breaks from college.

“There’s just so much to do!” she says.

Her younger sister, Danielle, has taken her work with the program even further. She was babysitting for Perkins one night last year when Perkins mentioned that the Clothes Closet (in Stevensville) was

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Karmen, Linda and Danielle Page, feeling the Christmas spirit all year long. Christin Rzasa photo. offering school supplies for needy kids.

“I knew high school kids who could use that kind of help,” she notes. “I just thought I’d see if we could start that [program] for high schoolers.”

Given that the Sharing Tree works under the umbrella of the Stevensville Civic Club, she and Perkins broached the idea to its members, who immediately applauded the move. Danielle next worked with Stevensville Principal Brian Gum and the librarian, Chyrle Wohlman, to work out the distribution logistics. Her project uses donated funds to purchase supplies (notebooks, binders, writing utensils, even backpacks), which are then stored at the school. When teachers identify a student in

need, they notify Danielle or Mrs. Wohlman, who assembles a bag of necessary items for the teacher to hand out. Karmen praises her sister’s ingenuity.

“I thought this was a brilliant idea,” she asserts. “I knew kids who were asking to borrow supplies. They were afraid they might be docked for not having what they needed for a class.”

Where most of the work on the Sharing Tree occurs in October, November and December, Danielle’s school supply project helps students throughout the school year. She’s hoping another (younger) student will continue her project after she graduates in the spring. Like her older siblings, she’s moving on with her life. She’s already been

accepted to two colleges and is thinking about a career in political science, helping people on a grander scale. Her mother, Linda, is decidedly modest, both about her influence over her daughters and her work on the Sharing Tree. After nine years of volunteering with the program, she remains enthusiastic.

“It’s helping kids in our community,” she insists, “and I love that!”

Anyone wishing to help with the Sharing Tree can contact Linda Page, at 214-1839, or Beth Perkins, at 207-5748.

Donations are welcome any time of the year.

Checks should be made out to “Stevensville Sharing Tree” and mailed to: PO Box 747, Stevensville, MT 59870.

Fresh Cut Trees Arriving!

CHRISTMAS SHOPPE IS OPEN • Ornaments • Trees • Lights • Decoration • Great Gift Ideas

Evans

RED HOT BUYS

on Select Christmas Lights!

714 N 1st Street Hamilton (406 363 3351

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Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Holiday SavingS

Flannel Shirts

Wednesday, December 12th - Sunday, December 16th

Hickory Brand Flannel Heavy Wt . . . . . . $19.95 . . Talls . $21.95 Wrangler Snap-Front Flannel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18.95 Wrangler Heavy Wt. Snap-Front Flannel .$28.95 . Talls . $31.00 Hickory Snap-Front Quilt Lined . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $29.95

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Winter Fleece & Sweaters Columbia Steens Mountain Fleece Jackets . . . . . . . . . . . .$29.95 Stillwater Supply 1/4 Zip Sweater Fleece . . . . . . . . . . . . $19.95 Stillwater Fleece-Lined Sweaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $21.95

Ja c ke t s Stillwater Sherpa-Lined Fleece Jackets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$27.95 Our Warmest Parka-Pulse Brand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $82.95 Most Columbia Parkas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $79.95 Polar King Quilt-Lined Sandwashed Duck . . . . . . . . . . . . $59.95

Vests

Smiths Workwear Poly-Fill Vest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $19.95 Smiths Workwear Duck Vest Sherpa-Lined . . . . . . . . . . . . $29.95 Carhartt Duck Vest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $49.95 Wyoming Trader Wool Vest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $59.95

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Most Levis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$38.95 Includes 505’s, 514’s, 517’s and 550’s Wrangler 13 MWZ Rigid Denim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $22.95 Wrangler Thinsulate-Lined Jeans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $42.95

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Pajama Pants Girls Fleece PJ Pants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8.95 Boys PJ Pants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$9.95 Womans Plush Fleece PJ Pants. . . . . . . . . . . Priced $7.95 - $9.95 Mens Flannel PJ Pants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9.95

Complete Selection of Montana Tees & Sweatshirts for Men, Women, & Kids!

Open Mon-Sat 8-6 Sunday 10-4 Downtown Hamilton

Page Nine

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Clarence Ferguson, Director of the Trapper Job Corps Choir, (pictured at right) brought his students to the Bitterroot Star to spread a little holiday cheer. This year they sang two songs in Spanish, as well as other seasonal favorites. Ferguson makes this an annual tradition, stopping at many government offices and businesses up and down the valley. Liz Cook photo.

GRAND OPENING friday dec 14th 10am-10pm

Florence Share Trees and Toys 4 Tots & Teens The Florence Civic Club is organizing for a busy Christmas season with their 16th annual Share Tree and Toys for Tots & Teens projects. There are seven share trees in Florence, each decorated with tags requesting specific items of clothing for local children and teens in need. Donors can find a tag to fulfill on any of the trees, and return their gift to the Farmers State Bank for safekeeping. New toys can be left in one of the eleven Toys 4 Tots & Teens boxes in Florence. Because of generous anonymous donors, all of the Florence children and teens represented on the trees will be gifted with a new pair of shoes,

new pants, a warm shirt, hat and gloves, and a new toy. Some tags also request cash cards for IGA, socks, and wrapping paper.

Monetary donations to the projects are always needed and welcomed - Florence Civic Club, PO Box 544, Florence, MT 59833.

Tags and boxes are out now; Dec. 17th is the final date for return of tags and toys. Many thanks to the locations for providing an easily accessible convenient space for the Toy Boxes and decorated Share Trees supporting this community effort. For more information: Share Trees 239-7669, Toys 4 Tots & Teens 546 -9829.

Door Priz es Holiday Dr inks Treats

$15 m 6:30p m ak Deco e & Tak e Ho r wo me r k wini ng, d shops & ho ining liday musi c

THREE STORES IN ONE

Robbins on Main, Robbins Hallmark, & Robbins ‌too

Robbins... too

209 West Main Street . Hamilton . 363-1733

Page Ten

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Triad Building Components – because local matters

Because. Local. Matters.

At Triad Building Components, these words strike a chord deep within us. They represent the very heart of who we are and what we hope to accomplish. Because we care about our local area, we are fully invested in the growth and success of the families and the businesses within it.

Maybe you don’t own a lumberyard and you’re not a contractor, but that doesn’t mean you don’t stand to benefit from organizations like Triad

that place a premium on supporting their community. We are manufacturing more than Laminated Building Posts, we are creating jobs that support local families. With every foot of Metal Roofing and Siding that ships from our Roll Former located in Victor, we are helping to benefit the community we have come to know and love.

We believe in the power of strong communities and healthy families. We know firsthand the impact a business can have when it cares enough to invest

Reuben Miller, partner in Triad Buillding Components.

John Miller III, partner in Triad Buillding Components.

in its community. Our schools benefit from increased funding, our families benefit from parents who don’t have to commute hours to find stable employment.

At Triad, we support local contractors and lumberyards with top quality locally manufactured building components. Meaning they benefit from shorter lead times and enjoy top shelf customer service. In turn, they can pass these benefits on to the families and businesses they serve within our community. A win for local really

does mean a win for all of us. We all stand to benefit from local companies that care about our community.

At Triad Building Components, we have no plans of changing our “Local Matters” mindset. We are committed to creating jobs and supporting local contractors and lumberyards with the top-quality building components we manufacture. If you’d like to learn more about Triad Building Components, we would invite you to visit our website at www.TriadBuildingComponents.com

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

The Boutique 327 - A Unique Shopping Experience

By Liz Cook

It’s the first Christmas for The Boutique 327! This cute boutique is located right on Main Street in downtown Stevensville. Owners Phil and Rhonda Henderson purchased the two-story yellow house on the corner next to their other business, Stevensville Hardware, last fall and quickly began giving the house a much-needed makeover.

The Boutique all started 13 years ago when Phil and Rhonda purchased Stevensville Hardware. Rhonda noticed there were a lot of women who would come in with their husbands, and they just kind of stood around. So, she wanted to do something about it. It was clear to her there was a demographic being missed and she also felt there weren’t many options in terms of gift type shops in the area. So, she took her idea to Phil. He gave her a small space and six months to make a go at it. Well, six months has turned into 13 years and that small space turned into a whole new building. The boutique has experienced a lot of changes, but only to strive to make the shopping experience better for the people of the valley.

Rhonda always makes an effort to bring in new and unique items to her boutique. She spends a lot of time researching products and going to trade shows to find good, high quality items. Whenever possible, buying American-made products is always her first choice. That is why you will find a lot of American-made items as well as locally made items in the boutique.

Rhonda also tries to bring in products from companies that give back or support nonprofits, such as the Duke Cannon company which gives a portion of its proceeds to support veteran causes.

One of Rhonda’s favorite things about her boutique is the Garden Center

every spring. Again, she puts a lot of time and effort into finding the best plants and veggie starts, accessories and supplies to help make everyone’s garden a success.

She loves the beauty that flowers and plants bring and it brings her joy to be able to spread that around to the people of the valley. She’s already started planning for next season and is excited for all the new plans and products she has in mind.

While having good products in her boutique is very important to Rhonda, having a great staff is just as important.

Alisia Sunderland, Brielle Boje and Vangi Burnett make up the team at The Boutique 327. They each bring with them their own unique talent for making the boutique a success. They all share the common goal to be the best for every customer who comes through the door. Alisia has been with the company the longest and enjoys helping to find new unique products for The Boutique as well as helping customers find the right gift. She’s knowledgeable about the products in the store and always has a smile on her face. Brielle joined the boutique when they opened the new location. She is their design expert and helps to keep the boutique looking fresh. She is always helpful to customers and loves it when they find that perfect something. Vangi is the garden center expert. She brings with her many years of knowledge and experience. If you have questions about your house plants or garden, she’s got the answer. She enjoys working with customers to help them find a solution to their gardening problems or just to pick out the right plant for their project.

Some of the products you can find at The Boutique 327 are candles, purses, jewelry, soaps, lotions, stationary, unique gifts, house plants, seasonal home decor and a section of women’s clothing. Brands include Duke Cannon, Papaya, Big Cock Ranch seasonings, Lodge Cast Iron, and

Page Eleven

Alisia Sunderland, Rhonda Henderson, Brielle Boje, the friendly team at The Boutique 327. Liz Cook photo. many more. Still Christmas shopping?

Come in and the staff will help you find the right gift or you can purchase a gift certificate.

Rhonda wants to thank the community for their support. “I’m blown away by the reception we’ve received from every-

one in being here. It makes me excited for the future and to keep bringing in new things for the people.”

She wants to let people know there is always something new at The Boutique 327, so stop in, say hi, and see what’s new!

u o t B i q e ue h T 327

Shop Local this Holiday Season!

Houseplants • Christmas Decor Fashionable Clothing • Accessories Great Gift Ideas Our staff is ready to help you find the right gift

327 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-4327

The Rental Department will have you Ready for the Holidays Table • Chairs • Carpet Cleaners Rent a Boom Lift to safely hang those Christmas lights!

DELIVERY AVAILABLE

323 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-3252

Page Twelve

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Your locally owned and operated Sears Hometown Store

By Liz Cook Sears Hometown Store, located at 1704 North 1st street in Hamilton, is owned and operated by Tom and Barrie Schmitt. They purchased the store in June of 2014, but Sears of Hamilton has been open as a Hometown Store since 1999. Family and a desire to live in the Rocky Mountains are what drew the pair to Montana. It was important when they bought a business that it would be one that would provide great service and products to the community.

The recent news about Sears Holdings has many people asking about their status. Sears Hometown Stores are a separate company with over 750 independently owned and operated stores across the country.

They are NOT closing and plan on being here to serve the Bitterroot for many years. Products, services, and warranties will all be honored just as they always have been.

They have had the same excellent staff for years. Kendall, Laura, Damian, and Mike make up the local America’s Appliance Experts team.

Sears Hometown Stores take pride in carrying the top major appliance brands including Kenmore, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, LG, Samsung, Maytag, and Frigidaire. Additionally, they have a selection of Sealy Posturepedic mattresses.

They also carry the lead brands in vacuum cleaners and fitness equipment. There is an extensive inventory in lawn and garden items, such as lawn tractors, lawn mowers, string trimmers,

chainsaws, patio furniture, barbeques and snow blowers. They are proud to carry Craftsman, DeWalt, Porter Cable and Stanley tools.

An additional business, Kitchen Tune-Up, is also located within the Sears Hometown Store. Kitchen Tune-Up focuses on affordable kitchen updates, 1 day wood restoration, cabinet re-facing, cabinet re-dooring, and more. A tune-up is a great way to make your cabinets look new and your kitchen to look updated all without the expense of completely replacing your cabinets.

The Sears Hometown organization is committed to helping the Make A Wish Foundation. The Stores want to make wishes come true for families that are going through a difficult time.

There are two major campaigns each year, one in June and one going on now through Christmas. The stores give people an easy way to make wishes come true. Sears Hometown Stores hope to provide a donation to Make A Wish of at least $150,000 nationwide.

This makes Christmas wishes come true for everyone!

Sears Hometown Store of Hamilton can get your home ready for the holidays. You can shop in-store or go to SearsHometownStores.com for an even wider selection of products. You can also get some of that holiday shopping done at Sears Hometown with great gift and stocking stuffer options. The staff is knowledgeable about their products and enjoy helping the customer pick out just the right item. There are always great sales at your local Sears Home-

Tom and Barrie Schmitt, owners of Sears in Hamilton. town Store. Follow them on Facebook to get the latest information or stop in today and say hello to Tom, Barrie

and the staff at Sears Hometown Store, 1704 N. 1st in Hamilton, phone 3759090.

Locally Owned and Operated!

Indoor Inflatable Party & Playcenter

WE ARE OPEN

ST! 1 Y R A U N A J G OPENIN

And Thankful for Our GREAT Customers!

DATE NIGHT DROP & GO Fri & Sat Nights 6:00 - 9:30PM $20/Child • $15/Ea Additional Sibling Includes 2 hours of bouncing followed by 1.5 hours movie & popcorn, juice & candy available for purchase Check out our Birthday Party Packages too!

OUTSTANDING HOLIDAY SALES 1704 N. 1st Street, Hamilton . 375-9090 Like us on Facebook!

Birthday Party Packages Private Rentals Gift Cards 806 1st St Hamilton (406) 203-0033 bitterrootbouncers.com

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Page Thirteen

Neffs’ Flooring and

Design

Give a gift that will last for years

Carpet Hardwood Vinyl Planks Tile Window Coverings Stone

406 363 7002 201 South Second St. Hamilton 9 am to 5 pm Mon-Fri / 10 am to 2 pm Sat

Gift Certificates Available Free Estimates

Store manager Mandy Crawford and her daughter Dawn took some time at the end of their busy day of serving customers at Valley Drug to hang out with Santa for a few minutes in the building foyer, where Santa visited with hundreds of children on Friday night during Stevensville’s Country Christmas celebration. Victoria Howell photo.

Holiday Beer

& Wine Sale Now thru December 29th Dec 1st - Dec 23rd Open Every Friday 10:30 - 8:00

Dec 1st - Dec 23rd Open Every Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

HOURS: TUeS-FRi 10:30-5:30 • SaT 11-4

305 W MAIN HAMILTON • 375-5903

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Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Family owned and operated since 1998, offering to you our professional service in regular automotive maintenance.

Our services include but are not limited to: ™ Oil & Oil Filter Change - Differential & Transfer Case Service - Automatic & Manual Transmission Service - Radiator Flushes - FREE Pick Up & Drop Off in the Hamilton Area 1000 North 1st • Hamilton • 363-4221

Now Operated By LUBE QUICK • Serving the Bitterroot for 20 years!

Hamilton’s Import & Domestic Specialists!

- Electronic Diagnostics, - Air Conditioning Service, - Complete Vehicle Maintenance & Service 1000 1/2 North 1st • Hamilton • 363-2360

Page Fifteen

Western Building Center has just what you need!

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Since 1946, Western Building has grown to be the largest independent building supply dealer in western Montana. Since its beginnings as a single building materials supply store in Kalispell, WBC now has 10 retail locations, including Kalispell, Evergreen, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Eureka, Libby, Ronan, Polson, Culbertson, and Stevensville, as well as Polson Outdoor Equipment and the Building Components Plant in Columbia Falls, which supplies custom roof and floor trusses as well as pre-fabricated wall panels.

WBC has always been locally owned and operated by Montanans. More than 10% of their over 200 employees have been with WBC for over 20 years, and one for over 60: Ivan O’Neil, who joined the company in 1954, is still active as Chairman of WBC’s Board of Directors.

If you shop at one of the WBC stores, you have undoubtedly experienced the small-town, customer-friendly, quality service that this locally owned business excels at.

Even long-time customers may be surprised at the broad range of services and products offered. If you haven’t yet made WBC your go-to source for everything from small do-

it-yourself projects to larger undertakings like remodeling or building your dream home, you’re missing out!

Western Building Center works with over 2,500 individual vendors and distributors to make sure that they have everything a builder or homeowner might need for construction or maintenance projects. From hardware and power tools, electrical and plumbing supplies, home and garden, landscape, paint, automotive, insulation - and more!

- WBC can get the product you need, when you need it.

All WBC retail locations are full-service lumberyards and stock locally sourced lumber. WBC’s experienced salespeople will help you determine which product is right for you, make sure that you have the right tools to get the job done, and even help you load it in your vehicle. All locations offer FREE scheduled delivery and specialized services like custom cabinetry design, computerized paint matching, and more!

WBC’s Stevensville location offers the Bitterroot all the services and products of a big city lumberyard without the hassle of big city traffic. Local customers can skip a lengthy trip into Missoula by working with WBC’s knowledgeable

The friendy staff at Western Building Center in Stevensville. computerized saws and truss presses. The panelized building process reduces waste, and is better for the environment – and your bottom line. These locally manufactured building components make your building project quicker and more efficient. The WBC Building Components assembly team can build in days what would take a framing crew a few weeks.

sales team to get the products they need right here at home.

In 2008, WBC added the WBC Building Components plant in Columbia Falls. Their engineers and designers work directly from your blueprints to design roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels, which meet or exceed local building codes. Trusses and panels are fabricated using quality lumber with state-of-the-art

As WBC looks forward from a proud history of more than 70 years of service and innovation, they are committed to continuing to help WBC grow and provide jobs for locals, while providing quality materials and world-class service to all of their customers.

The Stevensville store is located at 3956 Hwy 93 North, The phone number is (406)777-1452.

Milwaukee Packout

3-Piece Toolbox Set Bundle

Save!

A $295 value! Set includes*:

Slim Toolbox $74.99

Large Toolbox $84.99

Rolling Toolbox $134.99

303092

303085

303070

Prices valid until 12/26/2018 or while supplies last. *All three items must be purchased to qualify for the discount. See your store for details.

Milwaukee 95-Piece

Drill & Drive Set

Milwaukee STUD 2-for-1

25

99

3400207 Reg. 49.99

25’ Tape Measure

24

99

335111 Reg. 52.99

3956 Highway 93 North • Stevensville • (406) 777-1452

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Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Santa is coming to Super 1 Saturday, December 15th 11am - 3pm Bring your camera, take photos

O H O H HO

39 Stevensville River Road #1 Stevensville 777-7300