Uncover the bitterroot 2015

uncover the

BITTERROOT Published by the Ravalli Republic Newspaper • September 2015

2 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Weather.....................................................................4 Ravalli County and Geographic History..................5 Business of Living Business and Employment..................................5 Communications Providers.................................5 Essential Services.................................................6 Media.........................................................................7 County Offices..........................................................7 Hospitals and Health Services Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital Directory.........8 General Health.....................................................9 Specialties..........................................................10 Social Service Agencies and Programs General Assistance............................................10 Health and Medical...........................................12 Disability Services..............................................13 Senior Services...................................................17 Veterans Services...............................................14 12-step and Support Groups 12-Step Programs..............................................15 Support Groups.................................................15 Family living Family and Youth Services................................16 Senior Services...................................................18 Public Schools.........................................................18 Preschools and Childcare......................................19 Churches..................................................................19 Sense of Place Arts......................................................................21 Farmers Markets................................................21 Libraries..............................................................22 Museums............................................................22 Social Events......................................................23 Animal Rescue Organizations................................24 Natural Resource Agencies & Organizations.......24 Clubs and Groups Service Clubs.....................................................25 Fraternal Organizations.....................................27 Women’s Clubs..................................................28 Social Clubs........................................................29 Hobby Groups...................................................29 Professional Groups..........................................30 Outdoor Recreation Groups..................................30

uncover the BITTERROOT

published by the Ravalli Republic Newspaper

Publisher: Mark Heintzelman • Advertising Director: Jeff Avgeris Advertising Manager: Jodi Lopez Editor: Matt Bunk• Production & Design: Dara Saltzman Sales Team: Kathy Kelleher, Ashley McGaughey & Jodi Lopez

Cover Photo: Perry Backus

Interior photos: Perry Backus andDavid Erickson Uncover the Bitterroot 2015 is a publication of the Ravalli Republic, a division of Lee Enterprises. Copyright 2015 by the Ravalli Republic. This publication contains photos by the Ravalli Republic.

The Ravalli Republic apologizes for any errors or ommisions.

Please call 363-3300 to correct or add an entry.

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WEATHER Ravalli County weather runs mild to wild,

depending on the season and Mother Nature’s whim.

Spring is typically the wettest season in Ravalli County. Rains in May and June, together with melting mountain snow, raise river levels to sometimes dangerous heights. Recreationists should keep careful track of river levels to ensure safety. Springtime temperatures are variable as well, with days peaking in the 40s - or the 60s. Lows are typically in the high 30s to 40s. In Hamilton, precipitation averages about 4.4 inches for the season.

Summer weather is drier and warmer than the rest of the year. Precipitation falls to 2.14 inches from July 1 to Aug. 31, according to local weather experts. Particularly dry years portend forest fires

later in the season. Extended day length, with sunset pushed back near 10 p.m., meets highs in the 80s for long, languid days casting for trout on crystal streams, sumptuous hikes to mountain lakes or taking in area cultural events. Nighttime lows in the 40s allow for deep sleep after active days.

As summer ends, weather begins to change.

Autumn weather can be highly variable, from golden bright days to cold, wet, grey. High temperatures drop back to the 60s and lows fall into the 30s. Mountain snow, melted off in July, begins to accumulate again in October. Autumn precipitation averages 2.34 inches between September 1 and November 15 at Hamilton.

Topography and wind, always a factor in mountain weather, play an even more noticeable role in Autumn.

Winter brings about 40 inches of snow to the Bitterroot Valley, with considerably deeper accumulation on slopes and peaks. Lost Trail ski

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area, at the south end of the county, receives about 300 inches of snow annually. Throughout the valley, daytime highs run from teens to 30s, while nights drop even lower.

Whatever season you love, stay abreast of the latest weather information by checking the following websites: for general weather information and local forecasts, visit www. weather.gov/missoula. Area river levels are posted at www.weather.gov/Missoula/hydrology.

And snow pack levels can be found at www.wrh. noaa.gov/mso/avalanche. For further information, contact the National Weather Service. 6633 Aviation Way, Missoula, MT 59808. 329-4840.

RAVALLI COUNTY AND GEOGRAPHIC HISTORY Geographic features define Ravalli County.

Bordered by the Sapphire Mountains to the east and the Bitterroot range to the west, the county is bisected by the Bitterroot River, which runs its length. The Bitterroot Valley, named for the state flower that once grew plentifully on nearby hillsides, defines the heart of the county.

The county seat is Hamilton, located on U.S. Highway 93 about midway through the county.

South of Hamilton are the towns of Darby and Sula; north are Stevensville, Victor and Florence.

Grantsdale, Pinesdale and Conner are smaller communities within the county.

U.S. Highway 93 runs the length of the county.

Widened from a dangerous two-lane to four lanes not many years back, the road serves to transport commuting workers as well as visitors to Western Montana.

Two national forests, the Lolo and Bitterroot, share management of the county’s vast public land holdings. The Lolo has just 8,884 acres within Ravalli County, but the majority of the Bitterroot National Forest’s 1.6 million acres - 1.1 million acres - lie within county lines. Recreational opportunities, from fishing to camping, hiking and hunting, abound.

The county was officially established by the Montana Legislature March 3, 1893, and is named for Father Antony Ravalli, who came to the area in 1845. Father Ravalli worked with the Bitterroot Salish, who requested establishment of St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville - Montana’s oldest town - in 1841. In 1891, the Salish were removed from the valley to the Flathead Reservation, about 100 miles north.

With white settlement, the Bitterroot’s economy

became grounded in agriculture. Apple orchards, grain and hay fields and cattle ranches spread.

Copper king Marcus Daly came for logs to supply his Butte mines with needed timber, and built his family a mansion in Hamilton. The mansion still stands, open to the public to discover the splendor of early Bitterroot history. To serve the budding industries, the town of Florence, named for the wife of prominent Missoula businessman A.B. Hammond, was established in the late 1880s as an agricultural rail post.

Ravalli County population has grown steadily since 1960, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Currently 40,212 souls call the county home - about 4 percent of the state’s population. The median age of Ravalli County is 46. A quarter of the county’s population is 50-65 years old; 24 percent are over the age of 62. The county is 95.9 percent white, with a statistically equal number of men and women.

THE BUSINESS OF LIVING

Business and Employment • Bitterroot Job Service. 274 Old Corvallis Rd., Hamilton. 363-1822. Provides assistance to both job seekers and businesses needing employees.

• Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce.

105 E. Main St., Hamilton. 363-2400. www. bitterrootvalleychamber.com.

• Trapper Creek Job Corps Center. 5139 W. Fork Rd., Darby, MT 59829. 821-3286. trappercreek. jobcorps.gov/about.aspx. A free education and career training program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor for eligible youth ages 16 through 24. The program’s mission is to teach young people the skills they need to become employable and place them in meaningful jobs or further education. Trapper Creek Job Corps Center is overseen by the Dallas Regional Office of Job Corps and is operated by U.S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service. State unemployment assistance. www.app.mt.gov.

Communications • Essen Communications Corporation. 1572 Blue Lupine Ln., Victor, MT 59875. 642-3333. Local and long distance landline telephone service and DSL internet service for the Bitterroot Valley.

• Charter. (888) 227-2129. HDTV, cable, internet and landline phone service.

• Rocky Mountain Internet airFiber Light Speed Internet Access uses a microwave radio that connects to a single comuter using an Ethernet or Network port. Site surveys are conducted FREE of

6 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

charge (406)777-4088, (406)375-8088, P.O. Box 445, Stevensville, MT 59870.

• Eagle Satellite. 2347 S. Ave. W., Missoula. 7213662. Satellite TV service.

Essential Services • BitterRoot Bus. 310 Old Corvallis Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-7484. Sharna Paddock, transit coordinator, spaddock@ravalliccoa. org. BitterRoot Bus provides general/public transportation throughout the valley Monday – Friday from 8am to 4:30pm. Each Tuesday, the bus travels to Missoula. Everyone may ride, but reservations are required. Fares are based on pick up and destination points. BitterRoot Bus is a service of the Ravalli County Council on Aging and has been providing public transportation since 1999.

• Bitterroot Taxi. 375-9399 or 381-9399.

• Darby City Hall. 101 E. Tanner Ave., Darby, MT 59829. 821-3753.

• Hamilton City Hall. 223 S. 2nd St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2101.

• Missoula International Airport Shuttler. 543-9416.

• Missoula/Ravalli Transportation Management Association (MRTMA) iRide Vanpool. 2820 S. Higgins Ave., Missoula. 327-8707 or 327-8515. www.mrtma.org • NorthWestern Energy. www.northwesternenergy. com/. (888) 467-2669. Providing electrical and gas service to residential and business clients.

• Ravalli County Airport. 215 S. 4th St., Hamilton,

MT 59840. 375-9149. Ravalli County Airport was built in 1934 and has two 400-foot wide, quartermile runways. The airport is “one of the busiest small airports in the state,” according to Ravalli County.

• Ravalli County Extension Service. 215 S. 4th St., Ste. M, Hamilton. 375-6611. Provides education and assistance with agriculture, natural resources, community and youth development.

• Stevensville Airport. A private and commercial airstrip located three miles east of Stevensville.

Offers charter air service, scenic flights, propeller shop, flight training, aircraft mechanics, fuel sales, hanger rentals, aircraft rental and maintenance.

The airport is supported by leases, fees and fund raisers; it receives no municipal taxes.

• Stevensville City Clerk. 206 Buck St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5271.

• Victor Fire District. P.O. Box 243, Victor, MT 59875. 642-3180. victorfd@cybernet1.com.

Victor Fire District is served by Victor Volunteer Rural Fire Department and Quick Response Unit.

Victor Fire District owns and operates Victor Ambulance. This dedicated volunteer group provides emergency responses to fires, natural disasters, motor vehicle accidents and medical calls. Any district resident interested in becoming a firefighter or Emergency Medical Technician should contact the district office. Volunteer training is 7pm each Wednesday at the Fire Hall, 121 Tudor St.; the Board of Directors meet the second Wednesday of each month.

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 7

Media NEWSPAPERS

• Ravalli Republic. 232 W. Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3300. ravallirepublic.com. Daily newspaper of the Bitterroot Valley; Publisher: Mark Heintzelman; Advertising Director: Jeff Avgeris; Advertising Sales Manager: Jodi Lopez; Editor: Matt Bunk.

• Missoulian. 500 S. Higgins Ave., Missoula, MT 59801. 523-5250. Missoulian.com. Daily paper based in Missoula, covers all of Western Montana.

• Missoula Independent. 317 S. Orange St., Missoula. 543-6609. Free weekly with focus on people, politics and culture.

• Bitterroot Star. 215 Main St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-3928. bitterrootstar.com. Locallyowned weekly published by Michael and Victoria Howell.

RADIO STATIONS • KUFM 91.9 FM. Montana Public Radio broadcasts from the University of Montana campus in Missoula with a tower in Hamilton covering the lower Bitterroot Valley. Montana Public Radio is a National Public Radio affiliate featuring local and national programming including news, children’s programming, classical, jazz, world and folk music along with cultural treasures such as “A Prairie Home Companion.”

Contact them at University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812. 243-6400 or (800) 243-6400.

• 97.9 FM. The Ranch plays country music and features the “Scott and Paula” morning show.

P.O. Box 663, Missoula, MT 59806. 541-1071.

• K-107.9 FM. Mountain KHDV The Greatest Hits on the Drive 45 plus Adults, the music they remember growing up Mountain 107.9 broadcasting from Hamilton. Talk of the town weekdays at noon with Bill Williams. $10,000 ATM game. Mountain1079. com. 406 541 1079. P.O. Box 309, Missoula, Montana 59806 • 102.5 FM. Mountain KMSO All Hits, All the time.

Todays hits blended with the hits from the past ten

years. The Rick and Kim Morning Show. $10,000 ATM game, Griz for Kids, Kids Fair. Mountain1025. com 406 542 1025. P.O. Box 309. Missoula, Montana 59806 • KMZL 91.1 FM. SOS Radio - Contemporary Christian broadcasting at 91.5 Darby and 90.3 Bitterroot Valley. 2201 S. 6th St., Las Vegas, NV 89104. (800) 804-5452.

• KLYQ 1240 AM. KLYQ Radio is Hamilton’s Oldies station at 1240 on the AM dial, with national news from NBC at 6 a.m., “Montana Morning” programming at 7 a.m., and Fullerton’s “Bitterroot Morning” show at 7:30 a.m., with local news, events, and more. The station’s most popular program, the Friday morning Event Show, will continue from 8-9 a.m., with weekly coverage of local fundraisers, concerts, and more.

320 N. 1st Street, Hamilton MT 59840. 363-3010.

LOCAL TELEVISION BROADCAST CHANNELS • KECI. NBC - 340 W. Main, Missoula. 721-2063.

• KMMF. FOX/ABC - 5115 US Hwy. 93 S. 251-1360.

• KPAX. CBS - 2204 Regent St., Missoula. 542-4400 • KUFM. PBS - University of Montana, Missoula.

243-4101

COUNTY OFFICES Ravalli County government offices, based in

Hamilton, serve the entire county from Florence to Sula. Major contact numbers are listed below. For a complete list of county services, visit www.rc.mt. gov or call the county clerk’s office, 375-6555, from 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday.

Five elected commissioners govern the county’s 40,212 citizens. Although the county is divided into five districts, commissioners are elected at large, with terms overlapping so that about half the board is elected every two years. Commissioners meet daily at 215 S. 4th St., Hamilton, and can be reached at 375-6500.

Current county commissioners are: District 1 Ray Hawk (Direct phone line 375-6509), District 2, Greg Chilcott (Direct phone line 375-6502)District 3,

MONTANA Breathes a little easier thanks to the Clean Indoor Air Act.

All enclosed public places and workplaces are required to be smokefree and businesses are required to prominently place smokefree signs on all public entrances.

Voted 2014 Bitterroot's Best Dentists Stacey L. Simmons DDS Justin D. Simmons RDH, DDS

215 S. 4th Street, Suite D Hamilton, MT 59840 406.375.6573 lstover@rc.mt.gov

New Patients & Emergencies Welcome Most Insurances Accepted State-of-the-Art-Office 710 N 1st St • Hamilton (Across from McDonalds)

406-375-1192 www.canyonviewdental.com

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J.R. Iman (Direct phone line 375-6501) District 4, Jeff Burrows (Direct phone line 375-6503) District 5 Doug Schallenberger (Direct phone line 375-6510).

The commissioners, Clerk and Recorder, Environmental Health, Extension, Planning, Treasurers and Motor Vehicle are located at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton. The Sheriff’s Office, Detention Center, District Court, Justice Court and Public Health Nurse are located at 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton.

• Emergency services – phone 911 • Sheriff – 375-4060 • All non-emergency services – 363-3033 • Emergency Management – 375-6655 • Info. on burning go to www.burnpermits.mt.gov • County Attorney – 375-6750 • District Court – 375-6780 • Justice Court #1 – 375-6755 • Justice Court #2 – 375-6765 • Public Health – 375-6670 • Airport – 375-9149 • Clerk and Recorder 375-6555 • County Commissioners – 375-6500 • Department of Motor Vehicles 375-6585

• Elections – 375-6550 • Environmental Health – 375-6565 • Extension – 375-6611 • Human Resources 375-6519 • Planning Office 375-6530 • Superintendent of schools – 375-6555 • Taxes – 375-6596 • Treasurer – 375-6580 Other county offices include Weed district, 329 Airport Rd., Stevensville, 777-5842; Roads and Bridges, 244 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton – 363-2733; and Fairgrounds, 100 Old Corvallis Rd., Hamilton – 363-3411.

HOSPITALS & HEALTH SERVICES Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2211. www.mdmh.org Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital is a nonprofit, full-service critical access hospital with expanded medical staff and clinics, including a new orthopedic clinic. Services include: a

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 9

surgery center offering general, cosmetic, neuro, podiatric, obstetric, ophthalmologic, orthopedic and urologic surgeries; state-of-the-art imaging services including 64-slice CT scan, high resolution MRI, digital mammography, ultrasound, bone densitometry, fluoroscopy and PACS system; a rehabilitation center with 21 certified therapists, evidence-based rehabilitation equipment, the state’s only Hydroworx 2000 aquatic therapy pool and the only pediatric rehabilitation program in western Montana; a 20,000 square foot emergency department; hospice center; sleep center; urgent care clinic, medical social services, and a brand new intensive care unit, cardiology center with a full-time cardiologist and birthing center complete with baby friendly certification and lactation services. Marcus Daly offers monthly adult community health education classes, as well as classes in First Aid, EMS, CPR, Childbirth, Infant Sign Language, Walking with Ease, Arthritis, Bereavement Support and more. Other community programs include; annual health fair, sports physical program, blood pressure clinics, and patient financial services. Contact MDMH at 406-363-2211 or visit us at mdmh.org for more information.

Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital has achieved • Mountain-Pacific Quality Health Commitment to Quality Award – 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 • HIMSS Analytics Stage 6 Award - 2014 • Hospice Honors Outstanding Award - 2014 • Home Health National Recognition - 2014 • 2013 Most Wired Hospital • 2013 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital • Performance Improvement Network (PIN) Quality Heart Failure Care Award – 9/12 – 8/13 • PIN Performance Improvement Network Improving Heart Failure Care 9/2011 – 8/2012 • PIN Quality Pneumonia Care Award – 9/2010 – 8/2011 • PIN Quality Pressure Ulcer Prevention Award9/2008 – 8/2009 • Montana Public Health & human Services Promoting Worksite Wellness 2008 • Bitterroots Best Employer 2011, 2014, 2015 • Bitterroots Best Physician 2014 (Yvonne Courchesne, MD) • Top 100 Critical Access Hospital 2013 • Bitterroots Best Therapist 2009 (Pete Dunn) MDMH Department numbers: • Cardiology Services 375-4665 • Education Services 375-4654 • Emergency Services 375-4800 • Daly Hospital Foundation 375-4674 • Home Health Services 363-6503 • Hospice Center/Services 363-6503

• • • • • • • •

Imaging Services 375-4426 Laboratory Services 375-4428 Lactation Services 375-4680 Pharmacy Services 375-4403 Rehabilitation Services 375-4570 Same Day Services 375-4800 Sleep Center 375-4801 Surgery Center 375-4688

General Health Services • Physicians Clinic and Bitterroot Clinic are now combined and are Bitterroot Physicians Clinic.

1200 West Wood Drive, Hamilton MT, 59840.

Walker Ashcraft, MD, Mandi Griffin, MD, Eugenie Haight, MD, Allen W. Jones, MD, Jennifer Krueger, PA-C, John Moreland, MD, Robert Smith, MD, Anne Weinberger, ANP • Convenient Care Clinic. 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-0597. High quality professional walk-in medical care to diagnose and treat minor illnesses and non-emergencies.

No appointment necessary. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, Carol Calderwood, MD, medical director.

• Corvallis Family Medicine. 1037 Main St., Corvallis, MT 59828 . 961-4661. Full spectrum family medicine; a service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. Yvonne Courchesne, MD, April Weinberger, MD, Nicolett Weston, FNP. • Family Medicine Center of the Bitterroot. 330 N. 10th St., Ste. A, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3627.

MDs: Teresa Borino, H. Brett Heath, Randy Stewart.

• Hamilton General Surgery. 1150 Westwood Dr., Ste. D, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-0345. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. Luke T. Channer, MD. • Home Health Services. 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-6503. Provides physician directed skilled nursing and physical, occupational and speech therapy at home.

Medicare, Medicaid, health insurance and direct pay accepted. Services are ranked no.1 in state and in top 3 percent nationally.

• Hospice Center and Services. 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-6503. Licensed at home or in-center end-of-life care, including bereavement counseling for survivors. Medicaid, Medicare and insurance accepted.

• Life Span Family Medicine Specialists. 715 Main St., Ste. A, Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5522. Kirk Crews, MD. • Ravalli Family Medicine. 411 W. Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5104. Lawrence D. Brouwer, MD, Kathi Harder-Brouwer, MD, Allisun Jensen, PA-C. • Western Montana Health Clinic. Missoula. 5329700. Physical therapy, day treatment, case management.

10 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

Specialties • Bitterroot Cosmetics & Reconstructive Surgery.

715 Main St., Ste. B, Stevensville, MT 59870. 7774477. Robert Alexander, MD. • Bitterroot Foot & Ankle. 330 N. 10th St., Ste. B, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-4214. Chad Dickemore, DPM. • Bitterroot General & Vascular Surgery. 1150 Westwood Dr., Ste. C, Hamilton, MT 59840. 3634574. www.bgvs.us. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. Frederick M. Ilgenfritz, MD. • Bitterroot Neurology. 1019 W. Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-9310. Stuart N. Kieran, MD. • Bitterroot Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. 1200 Westwood Dr., Ste. A, Hamilton, MT 59840. 3754868. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital.

Drs. Michael Dolecki, MD and Timothy Woods.

• Bitterroot Therapeutic Riding. 599 Popham Ln., Corvallis, Linda Olson. 880-6599. A non-profit medically coordinated riding program for adults and children. Medicaid accepted.

• Bitterroot Valley Eye Associates. 300 N. 10th St., Ste. A, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5434. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. Mark Calderwood, MD. • Blind and Low Vision Services. Missoula, (800) 601-5004. 329-5400.

• Brain Injury Association. www.biamt.org.

• Cardiology Services. Anthony Navone, MD Marcus Daly Cardiology and the International Heart Institute of Montana have teamed up to ensure the residents of the Bitterroot Valley receive excellent cardiology care close to home.

Our newly expanded, state-of-the-art facility is patient centered, offers an array of non-invasive cardiology services, full-time cardiology and is equipped with the proven technology to provide quality, accessible, personalized healthcare.

• Denture Center. 1716 North 1st Street, Suite C, Hamilton 59840. 363-6000.

• Hamilton Obstetrics & Gynecology. 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-4777. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital; Mary E. Camden and J. David Laraway, Mds. • International Heart Institute. 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-4665. MDs: Bradley D. Berry, Steward M. Long, Matt Maxwell, Stephen A. Tahta, W. Stanley Wilson.

• Ravalli Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. 312 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2391.

Gregory Behm, MD, David Nolan, PA-C. • Ravalli Urology. 1224 W. Main, Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-4888. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital.

• Specialty Clinics. 1150 Westwood Dr., Ste. E, Hamilton, MT 5984O. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, Specialty Clinics provide neurosurgery, oncology and pain treatment

services by appointment only. Chemotherapy is provided every Wednesday.

• Rocky Mountain Neurosurgery Center. A service of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. The Rocky Mountain Neurosurgery Center is dedicated to providing exceptional and compassionate care in a state-of-the-art environment. Our staff is dedicated to treating each patient with respect, dignity and individual attention. We make spine, peripheral nerve and brain surgery convenient by bringing it close to home. Certified Neurosurgeon, Richard Day, MD, supported by Jennine Brogan, ANP – phone number 406-375-4714 • Oncology. Drs. Linda M. Reis and Alan Thomas.

728-2539.

• Pain Services. DOs Patrick Danaher and Steve Kemple, 541-7246.

• Western Montana Addiction Services, Inc. 209 N. 10th St., Ste. C, Hamilton. 532-9140. Provides prevention, intervention, outpatient and residential care.

• Western Montana Mental Health Center.

(Riverfront Counseling) 209 N. 10th St., Hamilton.

532-9101. Case management, individual outpatient therapy, marriage and family counseling, medication monitoring, child services.

SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS General Assistance

• 211 (formerly First Call for Help). Phone 211.

211 provides free phone-based information about essential assistance services available in the community.

• Birthright of the Bitterroot Free and confidential pregnancy support center located at 259 Van Blaricom, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-6710. 24/7 Help Line 1-800-550-4900 • Commodity Center. 215 N. 6th St., Hamilton.

363-2134. Thrift store selling used clothing, household goods, books, etc. at low prices.

• Darby Breadbox. 206 E. Tanner St., Darby.

821-2081. Emergency food supplies. M, W, F 10am-2pm.

• Dept. of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). 310 N. 3rd St., Hamilton. 363-1944.

Medicaid, food stamps, etc.

• Full Circle Counseling Solutions www.fullcirclemhc.com. Ravalli County Office: 112 Houk Ln, Stevensville, MT 59870; (406) 273-1684 Missoula County Office: PO Box 16540, 2291 West Broadway, Suite 5, Missoula MT 59808; (406) 5321615

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Full Circle is a licensed mental health center and a qualified developmental disabilities services provider serving Ravalli & Missoula Counties. Full Circle provides family-based mental health services, autism services, outpatient therapy, developmental services, case management, evaluation and diagnostic services. These services occur in families’ homes, at school, in the community, at Full Circle’s play and learning centers, or in an office setting.

Full Circle’s therapeutic supports and services are provided to children and adolescents ages 1-18 in partnership with families, caregivers, and guardians.

Full Circle emphasizes services based on individuals’ strengths and needs to support the development of skills and independence.

Staff includes Licensed Mental Health professionals, Family Support Specialists, Care Coordinators, Case Managers, and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). Full Circle staff provides community outreach, training, and consultation services upon request and as needed.

Accepted payment sources for clients include: Healthy Montana Kids Plus (Medicaid), Healthy Montana Kids (CHIP), most private insurance plans, and private pay with a sliding fee schedule (if applicable).

• Haven House Food Bank. 316 N. 3rd Ste. 162, Hamilton. 363-2450. Provides a food box once a month. Open M, W ,F 10am–1:45pm.

• Human Resource Council. 316 N. 3rd St., Hamilton. 363-6101. Serves the needs of lowincome through various programs.

• Literacy Bitterroot. 316 N. 3rd St., Ste. 156, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2900. Provides free, confidential literacy and high school equivalency diploma instruction to Ravalli County residents over the age of 16. Classes in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and academic skills for adults wishing to enter college or secure or retain employment are also available. Personal Employment Plan (career exploration) training is offered at 9-11am the last Thursday of each month.

• Mental Health Crisis Line. (800) 273-TALK (8255).

• Montana Law Help, www.montanalawhelp.org.

• Montana Legal Services, 211 N. Higgins #401, Missoula, 59802. 543-8343 or (800) 666-6899. www. mtlsa.org • Ravalli County Red Cross Disaster Action Team of the American Red Cross of Montana. 4479 Store Ln., Stevensville, MT 59870. Dallas D. Erickson, Disaster Chair, EricksonD@usa.redcross.org. 7775862, 240-5277. Prevents, prepares for and responds to disasters and emergencies. Every 53 hours, Montana Red Cross volunteers respond to a disaster, most often house fires.

• Riverfront Counseling and Support Center. 209 N. 10th St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 532-9101 ext. 3114.

A non-profit community mental health center

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12 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

“The Good Guys in the White Trucks”

Ravalli County Electric Cooperative has been a trusted member of the community serving the Bitterroot Valley since 1936.

We are member owned, Locally controlled.

We offer energy efficiency information and incentives for: Air Source, Geo-thermal & Ductless heat pumps, ENERGY STAR® appliances, High Efficiency water heaters, Montana Home construction packages .....

Each year Ravalli Electric Co-op gives away: 12 - $1,000 Post-Secondary Scholarships 1- Youth to Washington DC Trip & tour .....

Stop by our office at 1051 Eastside Highway in Corvallus or visit our website or call 961-3001.

Phone: (406) 961-3001 Fax: (406) 961-3230 Web: www.ravallielectric.com Email: service@ravallielectric.com

offering comprehensive behavioral healthcare for all ages. Psychiatric services, case management, rehabilitation and family services, 24/7 psychiatric crisis intervention, short-term crisis stabilization, and Eddie Meuchel therapeutic group home for adults.

Private and public insurance accepted. A unit of Western Montana Mental Health Centers.

• Section 8 Housing Assistance. P.O. Box 200545, Helena, MT 59620. (406)841-2830. www.housing. mt.gov. Housing vouchers for low-income and qualified persons.

• Supporters of Abuse Free Environments (S.A.F.E.), Inc. P.O. Box 534, Hamilton, MT 59840. 3632793; 24-hour crisis line, 363-4600; email safe@ cybernet1.com. The goal of S.A.F.E. is to reduce domestic and sexual violence incidences and impact through direct services to survivors and by decreasing conditions that support violence against women. Services include crisis intervention, emergency shelter, transitional housing, advocacy, children’s support, support groups for adults and youth, prevention programs and work of the Ravalli County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

• Salvation Army. 316 N. 3rd St., Ste. 161, Hamilton.

363-6101 ext. 248. Emergency vouchers for utilities, gas, prescriptions, food and shelter; rental assistance (eligibility requirements and restrictions apply); help with LIEAP/energy share; referrals.

• Stevensville Clothes Closet. 3862 ALC Way, Stevensville. Provides free clothing, linens and kitchen equipment to Bitterroot residents in need.

Hours are 1-4pm, Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, except holidays. Donations are gratefully accepted during those same hours. Mail: 1384 Meridian Rd., Victor, MT 59875; Gail, 777-5694 or Molly, 961-4614.

• Youth Dynamics is a non-profit children’s mental health center and child placing agency. Offering community based mental health services in the Bitterroot including: therapeutic mentors who work one on one with youth, family support services to help youth build positive coping skills and help caregivers work on behavioral issues with youth, individual and family therapy at the YD office and in the community, respite services to give children and caregivers a break, and youth case management to help link families to resources and monitor a youths services and progress in the community. Youth Dynamics also licenses foster homes and supports youth in foster care placements. Youth Dynamics focuses on strength based client centered care which is guided by our families. Youth Dynamics prides itself in never keeping a waitlist and can bring clients into services right away when it is convenient for families; no outside referral is needed. For more information families can go to our website at www. youthdynamics.org or call our office at 802-7032.

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 13

Health and Medical Assistance • Donated Dental Services Program. (888) 449-9670.

To qualify, applicants must have a permanent disability or be over age 62; live within 150 percent of federal poverty levels; have no other means of obtaining dental care; and need extensive dental treatment.

• Nurse First Advice Line. (800) 330-7847. 24/7 answer line for health and illness questions.

• Ravalli County Public Health Department. 205 Bedford St., Ste. L, Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-6670.

LuAnn Burgmuller, RN, public health director. The Ravalli County Public Health Department serves a large cross section of county residents. Services include child and adult immunizations, family planning, maternal and child health, emergency preparedness and communicable disease surveillance.

Transportation to medical appointments Disablilty Services • Americans with Disabilities Act Information Line.

(800) 514-0301.

• AWARE Inc., 205 E. Park Ave., Anaconda, MT 59711. info@aware-inc.org. 563-8117 or 432-6145.

Services for Montanans affected by disabilities and/or mental illness. Disability.gov. Federal government website providing web links to federal, state and local government, non-profit and educational websites. 800-432-6145 • Disability Rights Montana. 800-245-4743 • Full Circle Counseling Solutions www.fullcirclemhc.com. Ravalli County Office: 112 Houk Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870; (406) 273-1684 Missoula County Office: PO Box 16540, 2291 West Broadway, Suite 5, Missoula MT 59808; (406) 5321615

For more information, see full listing on page 10.

• Opportunity Resources Inc. 316 N. 3rd St., Hamilton. 363-5032. Assistance with housing, transportation, recreation, jobs and case management.

• Montana Telecommunications Access Program.

(800) 833-8503. Telephones for those with hearing, speech, vision, or physical impairments. P.O. Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604.

• Montana Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services.

(406) 771-9053. Schedule sign language interpreters, free telephones.

• Montana Home Choice Coalition. 616 Helena Ave., Helena 59601. (406) 449-3120. Affordable, quality housing for seniors, adults, children and families with disabilities.

• Montana Fair Housing. (406) 782-2573. www. montanafairhousing.org. Housing assistance for people with mental, cognitive and physical disabilities, including provisions for reasonable accommodations and modifications.

• Montana Talking Book Library. (800) 332-3400.

Alternative reading materials for people with visual, physical or reading impairments.

• Montana Warm Line. www.warmline.org. (877) 688-3377. M-F 4-10pm, Sat & Sun 10am - 10pm.

Phone line for people with mental illness to talk to about issues in their lives. Not a crisis line.

• Montana Work Solutions, LLC. 316 N. 3rd St., Ste. 106, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-7700. Provides employment and independent living services for people with disabilities.

• MT Vocational Rehabilitation. 2675 Palmer, Ste. A, Missoula, MT 59801. 406-329-5400 or 888-2797528 • MonTech. 243-5676. Offers individuals with disabilities introduction to assistive technology

14 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

and provides low interest loans to purchase equipment.

• Ravalli Services Corporation. 219 Pennsylvania Ave., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5400. msadowski@ ravalliservices.com. A private, nonprofit corporation that provides community-based services to adults with developmental disabilities.

Operations include four residential facilities, a day center, a work service location at 111 Old Corvallis Rd. and a thrift store at 950 N. 1st St. that helps support our corporation. RSC is one of the 20 largest employers in Ravalli County.

• Special Olympics Montana. P.O. Box 3507, Great Falls, MT 59403. (800) 242-6876. www.somt. org. Year-round state-wide programs of physical fitness, sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with differing abilities.

• Summit Independent Living Center Branch Office. 316 N. 3rd, No. 113, Hamilton, MT 59840.

363-5242. www.summitilc.org. A non-residential program providing advocacy, peer counseling, independent living skills training, self-directed personal assistance, information and referral for people with disabilities, their friends and family members. Main office is at 700 SW. Higgins Ave., Ste. 101, Missoula, MT 59803. 728-1630 or (800) 398-9002.

Senior Services • Ravalli County Council on Aging. 310 Old Corvallis Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. www. ravalliccoa.org. 363-5690. Administers programs for the aged, their families and caregivers.

Services include: dietary supplements, farmers market coupons, restaurant discounts, food commodities, case management services, Lifeline emergency alert service, durable medical equipment and telephone check-ups. Contact Ravalli County Council on Aging about the following programs: Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group. Provides emotional, educational and social support for caregivers through twicemonthly meetings. Eldercare caregivers workshop for family or informal providers of in-home care to older adults. A six-week course focusing on self-care, communication and stress reduction.

Participants develop personalized action plans.

Congregate meals - free hot meals for seniors in a peer group setting. Meal sites in Florence, Stevensville, Victor, Hamilton, Darby and Sula.

Meals on Wheels. Available seven days a week for seniors 60 and over and on a limited basis for those under 60 leaving hospital care. LongTerm Care Ombudsman Program investigates elder abuse complaints in nursing homes, adult residential care facilities and assisted living facilities.

American Legion Corvallis. VFW 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 Scott Turner at 363-9022.

Darby. VFW Post 38 meets every third Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Darby Community Library, 101 1/2 So. Marshall St. Florence. VFW Post 134 meets the first Monday of the month at 7 pm. at the Florence Fire Hall, 234 Holloway Lane.

Hamilton. VFW Post 1430 meets the first Monday of every month at 8 pm. at the American Legion Hall, 322 South 2nd St, 363-4399.

Stevensville. VFW Post 94 meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Post Home on Middle Burnt Fork Road.

Stevensville American Legion Auxiliary. Fort Owen Post 94, , American Legion Auxiliary meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Vietnam Veterans of America Bitterroot Chapter #938 meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 319 N. Third St. Vietnam era veterans often need assistance with problems and issues and many have similar stories. For more information contact Allan Sperry, 381-7899.

Veteran-to-Veteran (V2V). The V2V outreach group meets every Friday morning at 8 a.m. in the backroom at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. First, Hamilton. These informal meetings offer all veterans the opportunity to discuss how the military has impacted their lives.

Valley Veterans Services Bitterroot Division Disabled American Veterans is a volunteer service providing transportation to Veteran’s Administration-approved medical appointments. The Bitterroot DAV branch has four vans that travel 10,00015,000 miles, transporting more than 300 veterans, each month. Those in need of services, and those wanting to volunteer, should contact the agency for more information.

363-8396 or Al Hill, Bitterroot Valley Kiwanis Club, 375-6430 or ahill@fsbmsla.com.

Veterans Services Center provides free assistance with filing VA claims to veterans and their dependents. The Center, located at 802 W. Main, Hamilton, is open Monday through Friday 8 am.-4 pm. Stop by or call 3639838 for an appointment. Also available online.

Veterans Affairs Clinics. Roxanne Blanche, Service Officer for the Montana Veterans Affairs Division in Missoula, is available to veterans and their dependents who have questions or need to file a claim with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. For more information, call 542-2501, or see her in Stevensville—second Tuesday of every month, 9 to 10:30 am, Town Council Chambers, 206 Buck St. Hamilton—second Tuesday of every month, 12:30 to 3:30 pm, Job Service office, 274 Old Corvallis Rd.

12-STEP AND SUPPORT GROUPS 12-Step Programs

12-Step groups rely on a structured program of steps in a confidential group setting to help people gain control of their lives over substances or behaviors that have become unhealthy for them. Call listed numbers for specific meeting information.

Al-anon, Alateen and Adult Children of Alcoholics groups help families and friends of alcoholics take control of their own lives and responses to the alcoholic in their life using 12-step principals. Call for meeting information.

• Al-anon & Alateen. 721-5818 • Alcoholics Anonymous District 93, Bitterroot Valley. Bitterroot AA, P.O. Box 1015, Hamilton, MT 59840; www.aa-montana.org. Information hotline: (888) 607-2000; tape library: Dave, 3811711. Bitterroot groups meet daily see www. aa-montana.org/meetings.php fo detailed places and times.

Support Groups • Gamblers Anonymous. Bernie, 375-0222. Meets each Wednesday at 6:30pm, St. Francis Church,

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 15

411 S. 5th St., Hamilton.

• Alzheimer’s Support Group. Katie Aiken at Council on Aging, 363-5690. Meets at 1pm the third Friday of each month, 1pm at Valley View Estates, 225 N. 8th St., Hamilton.

• Grief Support Group. Marcus Daly Hospice, 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-6503.

Meets 2-3:30pm each Tuesday.

• Low Vision Support Group. Diane Gray, 3295413.

• Men’s Bereavement Breakfast. Marcus Daly Hospice Center, 1200 Westwood Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-6503. Second Friday of each month, 9am, $3.

• Veteran-to-Veteran (V2V) Outreach Group.

Meets at 8am Fridays in the backroom of BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Informal group for discussing any needs of any veteran. Contact Dan Mayer, 360-5435.

• Bitterroot Chapter #938 of Vietnam Veterans of America. Meets at 7pm the first Wednesday of each month at 319 N. 3rd St. in Hamilton. Vietnam Vets share information and assist other veterans in dealing with the Veterans Administration.

Contact George Mayer, 360-5435.

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406 532-9101 24 hr Emergency Services

406 532-8990 riverfrontmentalhealth.org A part of Western MT Mental Health Center

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16 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

FAMILY LIVING Family and Youth Services

• Bitterroot Breastfeeding Coalition. www. bitterrootbreastfeedingcoalition. The mission of the BBC is to increase awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding; educate, support and advocate for pregnant and breastfeeding women; and encourage breastfeeding as the normal feeding method for Bitterroot infants. Meets every other month.

• Bitterroot CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). 127 W. Main #9, Hamilton. www. bitterrootcasa.org. 961-4535. bttrcasa@msn. com. CASA volunteers act as liaisons for children that have been placed in foster care. Assigned by district court judges, CASA volunteers act as guardians ad litem, representing children before the court. CASA volunteers work to ensure children are placed in safe, permanent, nurturing homes as quickly as possible. Volunteers are carefully screened and must undergo criminal records and other checks before service. Those interested in serving, fundraising or donating to CASA may call 961-4535.

• Bitterroot Ecological Awareness Resources (B.E.A.R.). 1105 W. Main Street., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5410. B.E.A.R. is built on the foundation that nature helps kids deal with life’s stresses and adversity. Programs include: Venture O.U.T. Intensive small groups and one-on-one mentoring lets kids move Onward to new possibilities, Upward beyond expectations and Through

obstacles; K.O.R.E. - Kids Outdoor Reaching Extremes - for youth to learn outdoor skills while serving their community; Sk8 Montana - kids travel Montana visiting skate parks and learning new tricks; summer camps for teens and tweens; family outreach and support; and monthly dinners and events.

• Linda Massa Youth Home. 196 Providence Way, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-0619. Linda Massa Youth Homeprovides shelter for local children and youths in crisis. Courts, addiction service agencies and the Department of Family Services refer victims of abuse and neglect to BYH. Youths are provided a safe, caring place to stay and roundthe-clock supervision until their lives are stabilized.

Stays range from a few days to a year.

• Child Care Resources. 105 E. Pine St., lower level, Missoula, MT 59802. 728.6446; childcareresources.org; ccr@childcareresources. org. Helps families in Missoula, Mineral and Ravalli counties find and pay for child care. Scholarships are available to low-income families. CCR also offers training to Ravalli County child care facilities to help with early intervention for children with special needs or challenging behaviors. Contact CCR for information about the 2012 training schedule.

• Child & Family Services. 108 Pinckney, Hamilton.

363-1961. Foster care, adoptions, child protective services. 866-820-5437 to report abuse • Child Development Center. 1-800-914-4779.

The Child Development Center (CDC) provides services to families in western Montana whose

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 17

children are considered to be “at risk” for delays in development or have a diagnosed developmental disability.

• Emma’s House. P.O. Box 2034, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-7216. www.emmashousecac.org.

Free, confidential services for children and families where there are reports of child abuse or neglect.

Conducts forensic interviews, medical exams, crisis intervention and victim counseling. Engages in victim advocacy, community outreach and education. Services by referral only.

• Full Circle Counseling Solutions www.fullcirclemhc.com. Ravalli County Office: 112 Houk Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870; (406) 273-1684 Missoula County Office: PO Box 16540, 2291 West Broadway, Suite 5, Missoula MT 59808; (406) 5321615. For more information, see full listing on page 10.

• Healthy Montana Kids. www.hmk.mt.gov. (877) 543-7669. Free or low-cost health coverage for children birth to 19.

• P.L.U.K. Parents Let’s Unite for Kids (P.L.U.K.) (800) 222-7585. A private, nonprofit organization that offers parents of children with special needs information, support and training. Services are free.

• Ravalli County School Superintendent. 215 S. 4th St., Ste. B, Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-6522.

• Ravalli County Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program. 205 Bedford St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-6685. Food vouchers for pregnant, postpartum and nursing mothers and children birth to 5 years old.

• Ravalli County Youth Court. 220 S. 3rd St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-6805.

• Ravalli County Youth Suicide Prevention Alliance. 209 N. 10th Street, Suite A, Hamilton, 532-9122. Offers suicide prevention training as well as support for family and friends of suicide victims.

Suicide rates in Ravalli County and Montana are among the highest in the nation. Because 65 percent of completed suicides in Montana result from gunshot wounds, the Alliance also offers gun locks at no charge. Suicide prevention training is noon the first Wednesday of each month.

Surviving Suicide support group meets at noon the second and fourth Wednesdays each month.

Both are free and meet at the Carriage House Annex, 310 N. 4th St., Hamilton.

• South Valley Child and Family Center. 515 • Supporters of Abuse Free Environments, Inc. P.O. Box 534, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2793; 24-hour crisis line. 363-4600; email safe@cybernet1.com.

The goal of S.A.F.E. is to reduce domestic and sexual violence incidences and impact through direct services to survivors and by decreasing conditions that support violence against women.

Services include crisis intervention, emergency

shelter, transitional housing, advocacy, children’s support, support groups for adults and youth, prevention programs and work of the Ravalli County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

• Teen Bible Study and Fellowship Group. Open to all teens. Meets each Thursday at 7pm. Call 8213570 for current location.

• Trapper Creek Job Corps Center. 5139 W. Fork Rd., Darby, MT 59829. 821-3286. trappercreek. jobcorps.gov/about.aspx.

Job Corps is a free education and career training program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor for eligible youth ages 16 through 24.

The program’s mission is to teach young people the skills they need to become employable and place them in meaningful jobs or further education. Trapper Creek Job Corps Center is overseen by the Dallas Regional Office of Job Corps and is operated by U.S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service.

• Youth Dynamics is a non-profit children’s mental health center and child placing agency. Offering community based mental health services in the Bitterroot including: therapeutic mentors who work one on one with youth, family support services to help youth build positive coping skills and help caregivers work on behavioral issues with youth, individual and family therapy at the YD office and in the community, respite services to give children and caregivers a break, and youth case management to help link families to resources and monitor a youths services and progress in the community. Youth Dynamics also licenses foster homes and supports youth in foster care placements. Youth Dynamics focuses on strength based client centered care which is guided by our families. Youth Dynamics prides itself in never keeping a waitlist and can bring clients into services right away when it is convenient for families; no outside referral is needed. For more information families can go to our website at www.youthdynamics.org or call our office at 8027032.

Seniors • Adult Protective Services. 108 Pickney St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1633 or 363-1543.

• Eyecareamerica.org. Free eye exams and treatment for seniors aged 65+. (800) 222-EYES Community Senior Centers • Darby. 106 N. Main St., Darby. 363-5690.

• Hamilton. 820 N. 4th St., Hamilton. 363-5181.

• Stevensville. 100 Mission St., Stevensville. 7775681.

• Victor. 242 5th St., Victor. 642-3320.

• Ravalli County Council on Aging. 310 Old

18 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

Corvallis Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5690. www. ravalliccoa.org. Provides resource information and assistance, Medicare and Medicaid counseling and payee services through Social Security.

Donated durable medical items can be checked out from the free Community Loan Closet. The Council on Aging also administers Congregate Meals - free hot meals for seniors in a peer group setting; Meals on Wheels; and a Long-Term Care Ombudsman program that investigates elder abuse complaints in nursing homes, adult residential care facilities and assisted living facilities.

• The Golden Age Club of Hamilton. 727 s. 5th St., Hamilton, MT 59840. Activities include a business meeting the first Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m.; Pinochle parties, 1 p.m. – “One Bid” on second Wednesdays, “Multiple Bid” on third Mondays; Blood Pressure Clinic – third Wednesday, 9 a.m.; Exercise class – Mon., Wed., Fri., 9 a.m.; a summer picnic and Halloween dance. Dances and dinners announced when scheduled. The hall is available for individual use and welcomes new members. For information call 363-0142.

•Sapphire Lutheran Homes: 501 N. 10th Street Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2800 Sapphire Lutheran Homes is a Christian Oriented, Non-Profit, Senior Retirement Center. We provide quality, equal opportunity housing for seniors of all income levels. We offer independent living, assisted living and memory care for those with Alzheimer’s Disease or advanced dementia. Our mission is to provide compassionate, innovative services and amenities for seniors, enabling them to enhance and maintain their quality of life. Please inquire for housing availability and employment or volunteer opportunities.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS • Florence-Carlton, District 15-6. The district has approximately 856 students in its three schools at 5602 Old Hwy. 93, Florence 59833. District Office, 273-6751; High School, 273-6301; Middle School, 273-0587; Elementary School, 273-6741.

More information at www.florence.k12.mt.us/ florencecarlton.

• Stevensville, District 2. An award-winning K-12 system, Stevensville School District serves close to 1,000 students in “Montana’s Oldest Community.”

With a mixture of experienced instructors and enthusiastic newcomers, Stevi educators offer advanced placement, honors, dual credit and Montana digital courses to prepare Stevensville’s youth for college and career. Boasting the newest educational facilities in the valley, the Yellowjackets strive for excellence in education and service to community.Address:300 Park Ave., Stevensville, MT, 59870. Phone: 777-5481. Website: www.stevensvilleschool.net

• Lone Rock School District. 1112 Three Mile Creek Rd., Stevensville 59870. 777-3314; www. lonerockschool.org.

• Victor School. Victor School is a K-12 school with approximately 345 students. 425 4th Ave., Victor 59875. 642-3221; www.victor.k12.mt.us.

• Corvallis, District 1. P.O. Box 700, Corvallis, 59828. District Office, 961-4211; Corvallis Primary School, 961-3261; Corvallis Middle school, 9613007; Corvallis High School, 961-3201; www. corvallis.k12.mt.us.

• Hamilton, District 3. The district has three elementary schools, a high school, middle school, Head Start (preschool) and a 700-seat performing arts center. About 1,600 students attend district schools and programs. District Office, 217 Daly Ave., Hamilton 59840. 363-2280; www.hsd3.org.

• Head Start. 81 Kurtz Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840.

363-1217. For low-income children ages 3-5.

• Darby, District 9.

209 School Dr., Darby, MT 59829. District Office, 821-3841; Junior High and High School, 821-3252; Elementary, 821-3643; www.darby.k12.mt.us. private SCHOOLS • Hamilton Christian Academy, Kindergarten through 10th grade. Principal/Head of School: Stephanie Beck. 363-4534 community college/further education • Bitterroot College, 103 South 9th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840, Phone: (406) 375-0100, umt.edu.bc The Bitterroot College connects a diverse rural community to a wide array of learning opportunities. We achieve student success, lifelong learning, and community engagement through responsive and accessible academics, workforce preparation, and enrichment programming.

Offerings include programs and courses in Business, Energy, Health Professions, Information Technology (IT), Manufacturing, and Transportation as well as General Education courses and an Associate of Arts degree for for transfer to a 4-year college or university.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION • Bitterroot School of Music, 100 Skeels Ave., Hamilton, 406) 363-5491, bitterrootschoolofmusic. org. Offering expertise in the business of music - business basics, copy right law, multi-media marketing. Ensemble studies, instrument studies, music immersion, music production, theory and composition, private instruction on instruments and voice, group classes and more. Bitterroot School of Music is a friendly encouraging place where people of all ages and backgrounds con discover, learn and play music.

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 19

PRESCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE • Country Babies Infant & Toddler Care. 459 Skalkaho Hwy., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5698.

• Evergreen Montessori Preschool. www.evergreenmontessori.info. 201 Daly Ave., Hamilton. 363-7279.

• Evergreen Kids Corner. 201 S. 8th St., Hamilton.

363-1688.

• Sunny Spot Montessori. 106 Shady Ln. Hamilton.

375-1155.

• Grace Lutheran Childcare & Preschool. 275 Hattie Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-7563.

• Early Learning Academy. 103 Lyndale Ave., Apt. A., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-4220.

• Sonshine Preschool & Daycare. 165 White Birch Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3439.

• West Wald Daycare. 404 Wyant Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-9243.

CHURCHES ANGLICAN • St. Augustine. 206 E. Ravalli St., Hamilton, MT 363-4090.

ASSEMBLY OF GOD • Light of the Valley Assembly of God. 103 N. Kootenai Cr. Rd., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5859.

• Hamilton Assembly of God. 601 W. Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2510.

BAPTIST • Florence Baptist Church. 5431 Old Hwy 93, Florence, MT 59833. 273-2772. florencebaptistchurch.org.

• Highway Baptist Church. 225 Eight Mile Rd., Florence, MT 59833. 273-2041.

• Community Baptist. 409 Buck Ave., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5573.

• First Baptist. 402 Church St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5677.

• Galilee Baptist. 208 Higgins Ln., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5194.

• Lifeway Baptist Church. 3909 Hwy. 93 N., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-3570.

• Big Sky Baptist Church. 201 S. 4th St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3781.

• First Baptist. 354 Cooper Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840.

363-3735.

• First Baptist. 105 W. Missoula Ave., Darby. 8213234.

BIBLE • Lone Rock Bible Church. 1142 Three Mile Creek Rd., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-2592.

• Christ’s Bible Church. 319 S. 5th St., Hamilton.

363-3390.

• Cornerstone Bible Church. 280 Fairgrounds Rd.,

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CALVARY CHAPEL • Calvary Chapel of the Bitterroot Valley. 700 N. 4th St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3431.

CATHOLIC • St. Joseph Catholic Church. 224 Linder St., Florence, MT 59833. 777-5474.

• St. Mary’s Mission. 401 W. 4th St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5734.

• Our Lady of the Bitterroot Roman Catholic Chapel. 316 B St., Victor, MT 59875. 642-9528.

• St. Francis Catholic Church. 411 S. 5th St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1385.

CHRISTIAN AND MISSIONARY ALLIANCE • Canyon View Church. 195 Skalkaho Hwy., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-4244.

CHURCH OF CHRIST • Hamilton Church of Christ. 701 Adirondac Ave., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1713.

COMMUNITY CHURCH • Charlos Heights Community Church. 1700 US Hwy. 93 S., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2896.

• Corvallis Community Church. 310 S. 2nd St., Corvallis, MT 59828. 961-3443.

• Florence-Carlton Community Church. 20075 Old US Hwy. 93, Florence, MT 59833. 273-6811.

• Victor Community Church. 258 S. Martin St., Victor, MT 59875. 642-3458.

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST • First Christian Church. 328 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1213.

EPISCOPAL • St Stephen’s Episcopal. 203 Main St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-0028.

FOURSQUARE • Dayspring. 5527 Old US Hwy 93, Florence, MT. 273-4650.

• Crosspoint Christian Fellowship. 76 Woodside Cutoff Rd., Corvallis MT. 375-5196.

• New Life Foursquare Church. 303 Cole Rd., Darby. 821-4571.

INTERDENOMINATIONAL • United Methodist-American Baptist Federated Church. 211 N. 6th St., Hamilton, MT. 354 Cooper Ln, Hamilton, MT

406.363.3735

First Bap ist Church • Sunday Services & Children’s Church KidzZone – 10:45 am • Praise & Prayer – Wednesdays 6:00 pm

363-2465.

LUTHERAN • Faith Lutheran Church-ELCA. 171 Lewis Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2964.

• Grace Lutheran Church & Learing Center and Preschool. 275 Hattie Ln., Hamilton, MT 59840.

363-1924.

• Our Savior Lutheran Church-LCMS. 184 Pine Hollow Rd., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5625.

NAZARENE • Bitterroot Valley Church of The Nazarene.

150 S. A St., Victor, MT 59875. 642-3838.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL • Crossroads Christian Fellowship. 1297 Meridian, Rd.., Victor, MT 59875. 961-5299. www. crossroadsmt.org.

• Bitter Root Cowboy Church. 828 Ponderosa Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2853.

• Riverside Christian Center. 290 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-4148.

PENTECOSTAL • House of Praise. 2189 Meridian Rd., Victor, MT 59875. 642-6885.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS (MORMON) • Stevensville. 100 Middle Burnt Fork Rd., Stevensville. 777-5793.

• Corvallis. 957 Eastside Hwy., Corvallis. 961-4053.

• Family History Center. 401 S. 8th St., Hamilton.

363-5146.

UNITED METHODIST • Stevensville United Methodist. 216 S. College St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5443.

• Corvallis United Methodist. Eastside Highway and Cemetery Rd., Corvallis, MT 59828. 961-3099. corvallisumc.org WESLEYAN • Hamilton Wesleyan Church. 185 Golf Course Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-2485.

• Conner Wesleyan Church. 4674 Hwy 93 S., five miles south of Darby, MT 59829. 821-3570. Sunday worship at 11 a.m.

St Francis of Assisi • St Philip Benizi Mass: Masses: Sat 5:30 p.m.

Sun 7:30 a.m. & 9a.m.

Hamilton, 411 S 5th

Sun 11 a.m.

Darby 312 Miles St.

• AWANA – Wednesdays 6:15 pm

Sacrament of Reconciliation - Saturday 4:00 pm

Email: fbchammt@gmail.com

Pastor: Father Jim Connor • 363-1385

w w w . f i r s t ba p t i s tc h u rc h h a m i lto n . c o m

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SENSE OF PLACE Uniquely Bitterroot Arts, museums and recurring events give a place its character. These are some of the Bitterroot’s: Arts • Artists Along the Bitterroot. artistsalongthebitterroot.com. A collective of Bitterroot artists working in a range of media.

Annual open studio tour the first weekend each June. Individual studios open year-round by appointment. See website for studio list.

• Hamilton Performing Arts Center. 327 Fairgrounds Rd., Hamilton. 363-2280 ext. 2513 www.hsd3.org. A 700-seat performing arts venue administered as part of the Hamilton school district. Available for use by arts organizations, non-profits and businesses.

• Hamilton Playhouse. 100 Ricketts Rd., Hamilton. hamiltonplayers.com. Hamilton Playhouse was renovated in 1995 from what was originally a two story school house and later Rocky Mountain Lab. It is the home of the Hamilton Players, a non-profit community theater organization. The auditorium seats 168 and faces a proscenium stage. hamiltonplayers.org, (406)375-9050 • Stevensville Playhouse. 319 Main St.,

Stevensville. 777-2722. stevensvilleplayhouse. org. Stevensville Playhouse, Inc. is a community supported volunteer-run small town theater producing community theater productions and summer children’s workshops.

Farmers Markets • Darby Farmers Market Tuesdays noon - 6pm, Darby City Park; 821-3753.

• Florence Market. 9am -1pm Saturdays, May to Oct. at Caffe Firenze in Florence. The market features all locally grown products. “There’s everything from eggs to baked goods.” Vendor spaces are free.

• Hamilton Farmers Market. From 9am to 12:30pm every Saturday, May through October, at Bedford and Third streets in front the Ravalli County Museum. The Hamilton Farmers Market is a cooperative of vendors offering high quality fruits, vegetables, eggs and more. Ready-to-eat foods such as fresh baked goods, jellies, honey, sauces and full meals are also available. Local craftspeople also offer their wares.

• Stevensville Farmers Market. Saturdays, 9am-1pm from May to mid-October at the Main Street parking lot between Rocky Mountain Bank and North Valley Library. Market Master: Stacy Barker 381-1645. Stevensville Farmers Market offers fresh vegetables, baked goods, jams and

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jellies. Produce changes as the weeks go by.

Locally grown peaches, blueberries, cabbage, beets, zucchini and peas are available in season.

Market vendors accept senior and WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons.

Libraries • Bitterroot Public Library. 306 State St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1670. bitterrootpubliclibrary.org.

Provides library services and activities that support learning, reading and freedom of information.

Patrons have access to high speed and wireless internet, audio and e-books, online databases, books, traditional media and a special Montana collection. A copy machine, fax machine and friendly staff round out the offerings.

• North Valley Public Library. 208 Main St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-5061.

• Darby Community Library. The Darby Community Public Library serves the southern Bitterroot valley as a community center and place for reading, reflection, and research. It is our mission to provide programs and activities that recognize the educational, cultural, and recreational needs of the community. The new facility opened in 2004, and is the first public building in the US to use the roundwood method of construction.The library maintains a diverse collection of materials for free public use including a Montana collection, adult book collections, children and young adult collections, audiobooks and DVDs. The following are some of the services we provide. *Free wireless Internet access seven days a week * Public access computers and laptops for special use including low vision and limited dexterity computer station. * Public printer,Fax, copier, and laminator * Ongoing programs for community members * Fully equipped community meeting room for presentations, meetings, and conferencing * Homework and literacy tutors * Visitor and tourist information * Children’s Story Hour * Online resources and databases * Computer access for the visually impaired * Reports and studies from local governments * Montana state Tax Forms available during tax season *e-book collection Library is open Tuesday 10am-7pm, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 10AM-6PM and Saturday 10AM-2PM. Closed Sunday and Monday. Go to our website at www.darbylibrary. net for more information and a complete Calendar of Events or call 406.821.4771

Museums • Daly Mansion and Margaret Daly Memorial Arboretum & Botanic Gardens. 251 Eastside Hwy., Hamilton. 363-6004. dalymansion.org.

The Daly Mansion was remodeled in 1910 by famed architect A.J. Gibson for the family of Hamilton founder Marcus Daly. The 24,000 squarefoot manse has 25 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms and seven fireplaces. The 46-acre grounds include an arboretum. The mansion is owned by the State of Montana and managed by the Daly Mansion Preservation Trust. It is open year-round. Tours run 10am-3pm, on the hour, May through October.

The grounds are open until 5pm.

• Darby Historic Visitor Information Center. Open 8:30am - 4:30pm. Mon.-Sat., Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day. The Darby Visitor Center has a storied history. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it served as a district ranger station, schoolhouse and hotshot fire crew building before being restored and converted into a museum and visitor center. Displays tell the story of pre-WW II foresters on the Darby Ranger District. Visitors can purchase maps, brochures, and books. Firewood permits are also available. The Center is run by the Friends of the Darby Historical Center, a volunteer non-profit organization.

• Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum. 101 E. Tanner, Darby, MT. 821-3753. Open daily 1-5pm, Memorial Day to Labor Day. Darby’s Pioneer Memorial Museum is housed in a 1886 homestead cabin. The building was moved from Tin Cup Creek to its current location in 1953. Displays of early pioneer artifacts and photographs make up its collection.

• Fort Owen State Park, Stevensville.

100 Stevensville River Trail, Stevensville. 406-2734253. In 1850, Major John Owen established the fort as a regional trade center. Period furnishings and artifacts are displayed in the restored barracks. There is no fee to visit the 2 acre park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fort Owen Day is celebrated each July 4.

• Ravalli County Museum. 205 Bedford St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3338. brvhsmuseum.org.

Housed in the original Ravalli County Courthouse, the museum displays the art, social and natural history of Ravalli County, plus houses the National Senior Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. Permanent exhibits highlight Lewis and Clark, “A Walk Through the Bitter Root,” Native American history and Rocky Mountain Laboratory. Traveling exhibits change with the seasons. Museum archives include over 36,000 Ernst Peterson negatives and prints and Bertie Lord’s local history/photography collection.

Open Tue., Wed., Fri. 10-4, Th. 10-8 and Sat. 9-1.

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 23

Closed Sun-Mon. • St. Mary’s Mission. 401 W. 4th St., Stevensville. saintmarymission.org. 777-5734. The first Catholic Mission in the northwest and the first permanent white settlement in Montana, established in 1841

by Father Pierre DeSmet. Four years later, Fr. Antony Ravalli, the state’s first physician, arrived.

The complex includes a chapel/residence and log house/pharmacy, restored and furnished with items built by Fr. Ravalli. Also on the grounds is the cabin of Salish chief, Victor, now an Indian museum.

• Stevensville Historical Museum. 517 Main St., Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-1007. Th.-Sa. 11am-4pm, Sun. 1-4pm. Memorial-Labor Day. This history museum focuses on Montana’s oldest community, missionaries who settled the area, communities along the Bitterroot River and the once-resident Salish people. An early kitchen, wash-room, parlor and school are furnished with authentic items.

• Victor Heritage Museum. Old depot building, Victor, MT 59875. 642-3997. Open 1-4pm.

Tues.-Sat., from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A volunteer-run museum of Bitterroot Valley settlement and railroad history. Annual events include a summer ice cream social and

chocolate tasting fundraiser and auction in December.

Social Events • Bitterroot Valley Good-Time Jamboree.

First Saturday each month from 7 to 9:30pm at the Hamilton Grange, 1436 S. First St., Hamilton.

• Free Acoustic Music Jam Sessions. Sundays 2-4pm at Hamilton Grange, 1436 S. First St. just south of town. Everyone is invited; players of all levels are invited to bring acoustic stringed instruments to play old-time country, swing, cowboy, folk, standards, etc. Audience welcome.

• Boots n’ Calico Square Dance Club. Square dancing is the original American Folk Dance.

Dances are held on Saturdays, October through May, at the Hamilton Senior Center, beginning at 7:30p.m. Have fun with others, as well as get great mental and physical excercise set to music. If you are not already a Square Dancer, lessons are available through the Adult Education Program at Hamilton High School. For information call Bob Kaphammer at 363-4677 • Legion Bingo. First and third Thursdays each month. The fun takes place at 7pm at the Stevensville Senior Center. Free popcorn, cash prizes. Sponsored by American Legion Fort Owen

24 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

Post 94; proceeds support Legion youth activities.

• Ravalli County Fair. Ravalli County Fairgrounds, 100 Old Corvallis Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840. 3633411. Office hours: M-F 9am - 5pm. Established in 1893 the Ravalli County Fair has a family focus.

No dogs, smoking or alcohol are allowed on the fairgrounds.

ANIMAL RESCUE • AniMeals. 1700 Rankin St., Missoula, MT 59808.

721-4710. Open Tues.-Fri. 8am to 5pm and Sat. 11am to 4pm. www.animeals.com. AniMeals is a non-profit animal food bank and no-kill adoption center serving individuals, shelters and rescue groups throughout Western Montana, including the Bitterroot Valley. AniMeals also provides pet food delivery to home-bound pet owners.

• Bitter Root Humane Association 262 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5311 Our mission is to provide caring, compassionate shelter and enrichment for homeless companion animals, find loving lifelong homes, reunite pets and owners, promote population control and advocate for all animals. P.O. Box 57 SHELTER HOURS: Closed Wednesdays, Mon, Tue, Thurs, Fri:1:00pm - 6:00pm, Saturday: 12:00pm 5:00pm, Sunday: 2:00pm - 5:00pm • Feral Cat Rescue. P.O. Box 1018, Hamilton, MT

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updated JulY 2015-16 WIC is an equal opportunity provider.

59840. 381-6580. feralcatrescuemt.org. director@ feralcatrescuemt.org. Tamara Ritchson, President.

Feral Cat Rescue is a non profit animal welfare organization that focuses on feral and stray cats in Ravalli County. Feral Cat Rescue runs a trap-neuter-return program along with a cat food bank. FCR also fosters cats and facilitates adoptions of spayed and neutered working cats/ barn cats as well as domestic felines.

• Western Montana Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation, Inc. P.O. Box 1168, Corvallis, MT 59828. 961-3101. Western Montana Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation helps horses and people in difficult times via rehoming. Horses and donkeys are fully rehabilitated (if necessary) and placed with qualified adopters.

• Willing Servants. P.O. Box 98, Hamilton. 3632898.. Helping people and horses in need.

NATURAL RESOURCE AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS • Bitterroot Conservation District. 1709 N. First St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1444 ext. 101. bitterrootconservationdistrict.net. The Bitterroot Conservation District is a quasi-governmental organization, answerable to the state legislature and Bitterroot Valley residents. It was formed in 1941 to conserve soil and water resources of Ravalli County. Anyone wishing to do work in a riparian area must first obtain a permit from the District.

• Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor’s Office.

1801 N. 1st St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-7100. fs.usda.gov/bitterroot. The Bitterroot National Forest is comprised of 1.6 million total acres total, half of that wilderness. Much is heavily glaciated peaks and steep canyons; 1.1 million acres is within Ravalli County. Forest recreational activities include rock climbing, trout fishing, hiking, back packing, off-road vehicle use and horseback riding. Contact specific ranger districts for trail and land use information. All offices are open M-F 8am - 4:30pm and closed on federal holidays.

• Stevensville Ranger Station. 777-5461. 88 Main St., Stevensville, MT 59870.

• Darby Ranger Station. 821-3913. 712 N. Main, Darby, MT 59829.

• West Fork Ranger Station. 821-3269. 6735 W. Fork Rd., Darby, MT 59829.

• Bitter Root Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. (Bitter Root RC&D). 1709 N. 1st St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5450 ext. 5. bitterrootrcd@cybernet1.com; bitterrootrcd.org.

Bitter Root RC&D is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization working in Missoula, Ravalli and Mineral counties. It’s main service is acquiring and administering grants. The goal of the Bitter Root RC&D is to promote conscientious

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 25

development of natural and human resources while maintaining or improving the quality of these resources. It has been active since 1965.

• Bitterroot Water Forum. P.O. Box 1247, Hamilton, MT 59840. 375-2272. brwaterforum@bitterroot. net. brwaterforum.org. Bitterroot Water Forum is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, enhancing and restoring the Bitterroot watershed through education and hands-on projects to ensure clean, abundant water for all. Some key challenges the group hopes to address are water quality and quantity, valley development and preserving natural habitat.

• Calf Creek Wildlife Management Area. fwp. state.mt.us. 542-5500. A MT FWP site with 2,333 acres of elk winter range. Hunting at Calf Creek is by foot, horseback, or mountain bike. Summer use is primarily to observe raptors and songbirds.

The site is open to public use May 15-Dec. 1.

Vehicular access is limited after Sep. 1.

• Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. 4567 Wildfowl Lane, Stevensville. 777-5552. leemetcalf. fws.gov.

Designated in 1963 as migratory bird habitat, the 2,800 acre site offers photography, hunting, fishing and education. Commonly seen wildlife include white-tailed deer, muskrat, bald eagles, osprey, waterfowl and songbirds. There are 2.5 miles of trails and a scenic drive.

• Lolo National Forest Supervisor’s Office. Fort Missoula, Bldg. 24, Missoula, MT 59804. 329-3750. fs.usda.gov/lolo. There are 8,884 acres of Lolo National Forest located in Ravalli County.

• Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks.

3201 Spurgin Rd., Missoula, MT 59804. 542-5500. fwp.mt.gov. MT-FWP maintains 13 public fishing access sites along the Bitterroot River. Contact the department or check the fwp website for a complete list.

• Painted Rocks State Park. 45 miles south of Hamilton. The 293 acres park offers boating, camping and fishing in a pine forest setting. The no-fee park has 25 camping sites, vault toilets and potable water. Pack-in/pack-out is required; there is a 14 day camping limit. Trailers are limited to 25 feet.

• Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association. P.O. Box 238, Hamilton, MT 59840. 406-961-1435. rcfwa. org. Ravalli County Fish & Wildlife Association began as a sportsmen’s club in 1896 and has worked since that time to sustain the natural resources of Ravalli County and ensure that area sportsmen have a voice in local resource management. The group continues to focus on conservation concerns that impact sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.

• The Teller. 1288 Eastside Hwy., Corvallis, MT 59828. 961-3507. www.theteller.org. The Teller

is a 1,200 acre non-profit wildlife preserve and conservation organization located in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley that serves as a model of land stewardship practices. The Teller mission is to inspire, educate, and demonstrate conservation by utilizing hunting, fishing, historic preservation, organic farming and land restoration practices.

• Threemile Wildlife Management Area. A Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks managed site nine miles east of Florence. The 6,059 acre site is accessible by two-wheel drive vehicles between May 15 and December 1 whenever roads are dry. Motorcycles and ATVs are prohibited at Threemile; mountain bikes are allowed. Threemile was established to provide winter range for elk along with compatible recreational opportunities, such as walk-in hunting.

The site is favorable for bird watching. Threemile is closed Dec. 1-May 14.

• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

1709 N. 1st St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-5010. NRCS works with landowners through conservation planning and assistance to benefit the soil, water, air, plants and animals for productive land and healthy ecosystems. NRCS works with landowners, conservation districts, governments, groups and individuals to promote stewardship of private land.

• USDA Ravalli County Farm Service Agency. 1709 N. 1st St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1444. fsa.usda.gov. The Farm Service Agency administers farm commodity, disaster and conservation programs and provides credit to producers unable to obtain commercial credit, especially beginning, minority and women farmers.

It is a customer-driven agency dedicated to achieving an economically and environmentally sound future for American agriculture.

CLUBS AND GROUPS Service Clubs

• American Legion Corvallis Post #91. corvallispost91.com. Scott Turner 218-9980. Post #91 supports Bitterroot Valley veterans and their families and works to promote America through educational and service activities such as flag disposal, school contests and awards, parades and memorial ceremonies. The Post also places flags on veterans’ graves. The post is supported by the Ladies Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion Squadron.

• Bitterroot Division Disabled American Veterans. 363-8396. Volunteer service providing transportation to Veteran’s Administrationapproved medical appointments for any veteran

26 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

that needs it. The Bitterroot DAV branch has four vans that travel 10,000 to 15,000 miles, transporting more than 300 veterans, each month. Volunteers, plus those in need of services, should contact the agency for more information.

• Bitterroot Valley Kiwanis. This club was founded in 1971 to help children develop strong moral character through community service. Kiwanis members participate in a variety of annual projects focusing on community improvement. Funds are raised and returned to the community via service projects and assistance. The club meets each Wednesday at Noon at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton.

New members are welcome. Al Hill, 375-6430, ahill@fsbmsla.com. Justine Morris, 370-4420, Justine. morris@ravallirepublic.com • The Bitterroot Woman’s Club (previously named the Corvallis Woman’s Club was founded in 1914 and federated with the General Federation of Women’s clubs, an international organization, in 1918. We are a volunteer service organization

dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through service. The club has supported SAFE, Emma’s House, Linda Massa Youth Homes, Darby and Stevensville Food Banks, and every public school in the Bitterroot Valley with scholarships, a teachers luncheon and special faculty request. Annually we decorate Main street, judge speech/debate meets, deliver Valentine plates to shut-ins, outings and friendship activities. Books for Babies is a new project in conjunction with the Bitterroot Public Library and Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital giving reading information to new moms and a book for each new baby. This year out meetings are Saturdays.

For more information contact Barbara Plakke at 777-2481 or Cathy McCormick 961-8492. Come join a club with a long history of positive community service in the Bitterroot Valley.

• By Still Waters. A volunteer gospel/bluegrass group that plays at nursing homes, memorial services, weddings or at sickbed visits.

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 27

• Carpenters for Christ. Helps build and install assistive devices such as grab bars, ramps, wider doorways, etc.

• Corvallis Grange. A family fraternity that focuses on community service, self improvement and legislative issues pertaining to rural life. Meetings are the second Monday of each month at the Grange Hall, 130 Dutch Hill Rd. Call Bob Thorson at 961-3405 for Grange information or Scott Nicholson at 369-0749 for hall rental.

• Friends of the Hamilton Schools Foundation.

P.O. Box 1514, Hamilton, MT 59840. A private, non-profit organization established in 1993 to support Hamilton students and schools through college scholarships and classroom mini-grants.

The Foundation awarded over a million dollars in scholarships to graduating seniors and is actively seeking new donors. 363-2800 ext. 2513 • Hamilton Garden Club. Kathie Rouvik 363-2502.

Maintains downtown planters and community and memorial gardens; promotes children’s education. Meetings are the second Monday of each month.

• Hamilton Lions Club. P.O. Box 1564, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3879. Hamilton Lions Club provides financial assistance to low/moderate income Ravalli County residents for eye exams, eye glasses and hearing aids. It also sponsors a Lions Club ski bus each winter providing low cost transportation and discounted lift tickets.

All proceeds go back to the local community.

Regular meetings are Tuesdays at Noon. Hamilton Lions is the oldest service club in Ravalli County and the second oldest Lions club in the state.

• Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. RSVP Volunteer Center. 401 Main Street, Suite B,, Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1102. RSVPmontana. org. RSVP provides persons 55 and older the opportunity to help meet critical community needs through volunteer service to diverse organizations, public agencies and faith-based groups.

Volunteers mentor youth, organize neighborhood watches, help with blood drives and immunization clinics and lend their business skills to community groups. RSVP service is free. The nationwide program is more than 30 years old.

• Rotary Club of Hamilton. P.O. Box 278, Hamilton, MT 59840. Marilyn A. Morris. 370-3677. Rotary Club of Hamilton is part of an international group of men and women who work for peace on the local and international level. The group meets at BJ’s Restaurant at Noon each Monday.

• Stevensville Garden Club. Membership inquiries, Linda Clark 777-4777. Since 1939, the Stevensville Garden Club aims to stimulate interest in horticulture, beautify the town, encourage neighborhood cooperation and stimulate civic improvement. Outreach is through First Fridays,

exhibits, special meetings and assisting other groups. Meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at the Baptist Church at Buck and Ravalli streets.

Fraternal Organizations • Ancient Free and Accepted Masons Victor Lodge #43. Above Farmers State Bank, 103 Main St., Victor, MT 59875. Jerry Hinman, Secretary.

821-3702. jthinman@dihmail.net. The Masons are an ancient men’s fraternal origination in the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. With the use symbols and allegory the group promotes friendship, morality and brotherly love.

• Bitterroot Valley Elks Lodge No. 1651. 203 State St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-3031, elks1651@ cybernet1.com. Bitterroot Valley Elks are a 70-year-old fraternal organization that helps support Bitterroot Valley communities. Contact Dan York, 777-0496.

• Hamilton Rainbow Assembly #2 of the International Order of Rainbow. Penny Keegan, 360-7130363-3349. The Assembly is a service organization for girls 11-18. The group throws parties for residents of Sapphire Lutheran Home, does highway clean-up and has won honors in the Corvallis Memorial Day parade.

• Ionic Masonic Lodge #38 A.F.&A.M. 115 S. 3rd St., Hamilton, MT 59840. Ionic has been in existence since 1889. Officer Practice and fellowship is 7pm each Tuesday; stated meetings are the second Thursday each month. All Masons are welcome. To learn more about Masonry, contact: Jim Trowbridge 360-1008 • Order of the Eastern Star. Founded in the 1860’s as an adjunct body of the Masons; women and men may both belong. The group supports local and national charities, especially those dealing with children’s health issues. Eastern Star has over two million members globally. Leona Chapter #31 (Hamilton) was chartered in 1903 and meets at 7:30pm the first and third Thursdays of the month, September-June, at Masonic Hall, 115 S. 3rd St., Hamilton. For more information, contact the chapter secretary at 363-0768. Naomi Chapter #19 (Victor) meets at 7:30pm the first and third Wednesday September-June at the Masonic Hall above Farmers’ State Bank, Victor.

• York Rite Bodies of Hamilton Chapter 18-Royal Arch Masons, Sula Council 13-Cryptic Masons and Crusade Commandery 17-Knights Templar.

Masonic Lodge Building, 115 S. 3rd St. Kim Bowman 801-330-6176. York Rite Bodies provides financial support for medical research in auditory processing disorders, stem cells, cardiovascular disease and eye disorders. It also helps fund a Montana clergy Holy Land trip each year.

Hamilton York Rite Bodies meets at 7:30pm the

28 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

second Wednesday each month, February through November.

Women’s Clubs • Beta Sigma Phi means many things to many women. To some, it means a richer social life, from informal get-togethers to gala affairs that often include husbands and families. To others, it means adventures of the mind through direct participation in fascinating cultural programs.

To still others, it means the inner satisfaction of service-to their community, their nation, and the world. To all of its members, each in her own way, Beta Sigma Phi has become an important, ongoing instrument for self-improvement. Beta Sigma Phi offers women an opportunity to grow, both in mind and in spirit. That is why we are known around the world as “The Friendship Organization”.

After 80 years of success and growth, there are over 165,000 members in approximately 12,000 chapters in over 15 countries around the globe.

In the Bitterroot we have 2 active chapters that can accommodate your lifestyle with over 30 active members. To find out more about Beta Sigma Phi contact our International Office at 816444-6800 or online at www.betasigmaphi.org.

• Bitterroot Women Newcomers’ Club provides

Since 1962, the Bitterroot’s Most Dependable Nursing Home Private rooms and newly remodeled rooms

~

Specializing in care for Alzheimer’s in older adults

~

Therapy for rehabilitation residents

Where the Joy of Living is Never Lost 225 North 8th Street • Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-1144 • www.valleyviewestates.org

opportunities for friendship for new residents or newly retired residents of the Bitterroot Valley. We have monthly meetings with guest speakers on varied topics relating to life in the Bitterroot Valley.

We also have small groups that meet weekly or monthly for cooking club, book club, various game clubs, sports clubs, and more. The monthly meetings are on the second Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. and are generally held at the First Christian Church in Hamilton. If you would like more information about the group, contact Val Dannels or email bitterroot.valley.newcomers@ gmail.com.

• Bitterroot Business Connections. www. discovermbn.com. Sue Gust. 360-0820. A subnetwork of the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network, meets at Bouilla Restaurant in Hamilton; Noon1pm the second Thursday of each month.

• Bitterroot Empowerment. P.O. Box 4525 Missoula, MT 59806. discovermbn.com. A sub-network of the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network, meets Noon-1pm the first Thursday of each month.

• Bitterroot Moms Club. Daytime group geared for moms and children. Occasional evening events. For more information contact Ashley at ashleyt9183@yahoo.com.

• MOPS. Mothers of Preschoolers is a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging and

Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015 - 29

developing mothers’ potential. Meets at Canyon View Church the second and fourth Wednesdays each month from 9:30 to 11:30am. For more information, contact Calvary Chapel.

• The Bitterroot Woman’s Club This year out meetings are Saturdays. For more information contact Barbara Plakke at 777-2481 or Cathy McCormick 961-8492. Come join a club with a long history of positive community service in the Bitterroot Valley.

• Soroptimist International of Hamilton. P.O. Box 1012, Hamilton, MT 59840. sihamilton.org.

Soroptimist International is a worldwide women’s organization whose mission is empowering women through education and support. The Hamilton chapter has been active since 1974 and meets at BJ’s restaurant (at the corner of Hwy. 93 and Fairgrounds Road) the first, second and third Thursdays of each month.

• The Daniel Plan. Conner Wesleyan Church, 5 miles S. of Darby at 4674 Hwy. 93 S., Darby, MT 59829. Presenting Daniels Plan - getting healthy spiritually as well as physically. Meets every Tuesday morning 10-11:30 am starting Oct. 14. 8213457.

Social Clubs • The Golden Age Club of Hamilton. 727 s. 5th St., Hamilton, MT 59840. Activities include a business meeting the first Wednesday of each month at 12:30 p.m.; Pinochle parties, 1 p.m. – “One Bid” on second Wednesdays, “Multiple Bid” on third Mondays; Blood Pressure Clinic – third Wednesday, 9 a.m.; Exercise class – Mon., Wed., Fri., 9 a.m.; a summer picnic and Halloween dance. Dances and dinners announced when scheduled. The hall is available for individual use and welcomes new members. For information call 363-0142.

• Bitterroot Toastmasters. Meetings are designed to build confidence and skills in communication and leadership. Guests are welcome. Meets Tuesdays at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N 4th Street, 12:30.

• Sula Country Life Club. 405 East Fork Road, Sula, MT. 821-0187. The Sula Country Life Club began as the charitable Ladies Sewing Society in 1897. It evolved into the co-ed Country Life Club in 1915.

The original purpose was to raise funds to help furnish the Sula school. Promoting fellowship is still a goal. Meetings are the third Tuesday of most months, September to May. Funds raised go to the local community. 821-3351.

Hobby Groups • Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild. Meets the last Saturday of every month. If you are a wool spinner or work with fibers, contact Marty at 777-2421 for location information.

Service Lines At Sapphire Lutheran Homes: • Independent Living Apartments • Assisted Living Apartments • Subsidized Housing For Low-Income Seniors • Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care • Medicaid Provider Call for tours and availability of apartments on the Sapphir Lutheran Homes’ campus.

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30 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

• Bitterroot Amateur Radio Club. montanahome@ accessmtwildblue.com. 240-5277. members. tripod.com/w7ftx/. Bitterroot Amateur Radio Club meets the third Monday each month at 7pm at BJ’s in Hamilton. Anyone interested in HAM radio operation is welcome. Dues are $12 per family.

Ted Dunlap 821-9935.

• Bitterroot Quilters’ Guild. P.O. Box 943, Hamilton, MT 59840. bitterrootquiltersguild.com. Facebook: bitterroot quilters guild. The Bitterroot Quilters’ Guild promotes quilting and provides quilts for humanitarian purposes. The group offers educational programs and workshops and funds scholarships for students. Meetings are at 6:30pm the fourth Wednesday of the month, September through June (except November), at Daly Leach Community Room located at 1010 W. Main Street, Hamilton. Smaller groups have other meeting times; check the website for details. President Judy LaSalle 375-0871.

• Green Thumbs Up. c/o Peter and Helen Allen, 131 Deer Haven Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840. 381-3585.

Green Thumbs Up is a local group of gardening enthusiasts that meets the second Monday of each month except summer, usually at the Bitterroot Public Library. The group is open to all gardeners, regardless of expertise.

• Knotty Knitters Guild. The Yarn Center, 110 Pinkney St., Hamilton, MT 59840. 363-1400.

The Knotty Knitters Guild seeks to further the growth and knowledge of hand kitting techniques, patterns and history through knitting activities. Membership is open to anyone interest in knitting and fiber arts. The Guild meets at 6pm the third Tuesday of each month. Open knitting is from 11 am to 2 pm each Thursday; non-members are welcome.

• Sapphire Quilt Club. P.O. Box 768, Stevensville, MT 59870. 777-1070. The Sapphire Quilt Club was established to promote knowledge of quilt making and history and to provide “sunshine quilts” to those in need.

• Tired Iron Club. Clark Carpenter, Darrel Sperry, President. 961-3894. The Tired Iron Club is dedicated to showing antique farm machinery and tools at local parades, fairs and events.

Meetings are the first Thursday of each month.

New members are welcome.

Professional Groups • Hamilton Downtown Association. (406) 360-9124.

Website: www.hamiltondowntownassociation. org, email hamiltondowntownassociation@ gmail.com. The HDA’s mission is to promote the economic vitality of Hamilton and its historic downtown, and to promote the richness of shopping, living, and giving locally. We maintain a vital Hamilton business community, promoting

Hamilton as a cultural, historic, entertainment and business destination; continually reaching out to the residents of the valley to educate them on the products and services we offer, and the importance of supporting local businesses; and contributing to the vitality and well-being of our community via events and other activities. The Hamilton Downtown Association is a 501-c-6 nonprofit association.

OUTDOOR RECREATION • Bitterroot Audubon Society. www.bitterrootaudubon.org. Kay Fulton, President.

642-3794. kayinmt@cybernet1.com.

Audubon’s mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, wildlife and their habitats. The group offers educational programs and field trips, advocates for political and personal actions that promote conservation and works with other Audubon chapters. Meetings are at 7pm the third Monday of each month, September through May, alternating between the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge north of Stevensville and U.S. Forest Service Headquarters in Hamilton.

The Bitterroot Audubon Society is a local chapter of the National Audubon Society.

• Bitterroot Aquatic Center.

59 Kurtz Ln, Hamilton. 375-8200. www.bitterrootaquaticcenter.com. Indoor and outdoor pools with waterslides, water exercise classes and swim lessons. Open year round. Chair lift for wheelchair users.

• Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen. P.O. Box 1083, Hamilton, MT 59840. www.bchmt.org/ bitterroot. 546-6492. Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen is a chapter of the non-profit Back Country Horsemen of America. Members share knowledge, perform trail work and advocate to keep trails open to stock use. BCH originated in Montana in 1973 to perpetuate common sense use and enjoyment of horses in America’s back country. The Bitter Root chapter was the third formed and will celebrate its 40th anniversary in a few years. A monthly potluck and business meeting is the third Thursday of each month at Corvallis School; summer meetings are at various trailheads. Check the website for details.

• Bitterroot Cross-Country Ski Club. Michael Hoyt.

360-3803. Michael.hoyt@gmail.com.

The Bitterroot Cross-Country Ski Club is a 20-yearold non-profit that promotes Nordic skiing and outdoor recreation through educating the public about the health and recreational benefits of such activities. The club cares for the Chief Joseph Ski Trails and Gordon Reese Cabin near Lost Trail Pass.

• Bitterroot Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club. P.O.

30 - Uncover the Bitterroot, Friday, September 18, 2015

Box 265, Hamilton, MT 59840. www.ridgerunners. org. Bitterroot Ridge Runners is a group of about 250 enthusiasts dedicated to promoting and preserving snowmobile use in Western Montana.

BRR works with the state and Forest Service to groom 60 miles of trails that provide access to the continental divide and high country. Additional information on activities, routes, projects and membership are available on the website.

• Five Valleys Pony Club Pony Club teaches youths stable management, basic veterinary care, equine nutrition, trailer safety and tack care and English riding. Competition is an important part of our program. Members learn self-reliance and teamwork. Pony Club has more than 600 clubs and centers throughout the United States.

• Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot. flyfishersofthebitterroot. org. P.O. Box 692, Victor, MT 59875. 961-5455. A social and educational group committed to promoting the art, science & fun of fly fishing. The club hosts an annual fly fishing clinic each May, coordinates a Bitterroot River clean up and more.

FFB meets monthly and hosts members-only fishing trips. FFB recently published a local fly fishing guide, “Fly Fishing the Bitterroot.”

• Hamilton Trap Club. Hamilton Airport. 363-2656. hamiltontrapclub.com. Every Wednesday and Sunday from noon until dusk or before.

• Montana Longears Association/Montana Mule Days. Marilyn Stromberg. 1016 Fletcher Ln., Stevensville. montanamuledays.com. 777-2331.

Montana Longears promotes the riding/driving/use of mules and donkeys. The group puts on a threeday family event - Montana Mule Days - each year. Members may own mules and donkeys or just love them.

• Ravalli County Off Road User Association. ravalliofroad.org. RCORUA was formed to promote and protect responsible off-pavement vehicle use.

The group works with state and federal agencies to conduct trail maintenance, road inventory and planned events. Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 663 Grantsdale Rd., Hamilton. For membership information, consult the website.

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