Missoula Forum for Children and Youth Bulletin Board

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS HEALTHY FAMILIES FIRST FUN NIGHT at the FARM
Wednesday 05/20/2008 5:30-7:00PM
Presented by Families First Staff at the Garden City Harvest Community Farm
Join us as we explore Garden City Harvest Community Farm at the beginning of the growing season! Families learn appreciation of farm work and the taste of wholesome food. The Good Food Store will help provide a delicious organic meal. FREE! Call 721-7690 to register so we have food for everyone.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Relatives as Parents
Wednesday 05/21/2008 6:15 -8:15 PM
Presented by Families First at YMCA
Relatives often step in when children need to be raised in safer, healthier, environments. The unexpected physical, emotional, financial and legal demands can be daunting. This program helps kinship families find answers to difficult questions, gain access to resources and receive support through a community of families in similar situations. Class is Free! and Childcare is provided. Call 721-7690 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS PIZZA FOR PARENTS: Emotional Intelligence
Wednesday 05/21/2008 11:00-12:15PM
Presented by Sara Polanchek at Rattlesnake Elementary
Learn how to help your child increase awareness of their own feelings, the ability to empathize with other people and improve their listening skills. We'd all like to raise kids who are well-adjusted, happy, and successful, and parenting with empathy can aid our efforts. We’ll talk about recognizing our own feelings and the feelings of others, empathetic responses and self-discipline in parenting. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Post Partum Support Group
Wednesday 5/21/2008 10:30AM-11:30AM
Presented by Lara Mattson Radle at The Birth Center (1211 S Reserve St # 101)
An opportunity for new moms to get together and talk openly about the ups and downs of motherhood. Call 721-7690 for more information.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Anger Management
Thursday 05/22/2008 NOON-2PM
Presented by Brad Boyland at Families First
This two hour workshop will give you tips for keeping your cool. Class is $25 and childcare is provided upon request. Please call 721-7690 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Anger Management
Wednesday 05/28/2008 7:00PM-9:00PM
Presented by Katherine Kosma at Pablo Headstart
What parent hasn’t gotten really angry with their kids at one time or another?
This class will help parents from all walks of life with anger management and will give insight on emotion regulation to help parents get a grasp when their temper flares. This class is Free and includes childcare if needed. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

Forum on 05.09.08 @ 06:01 PM MDT [link]

YWCA PILOTS SUPPORT GROUP FOR NATIVE SURVIVORS; FACILITATORS NEEDED

CONTACT: Caitlin Copple, 543-6691

Twenty-seven years ago, Karen Neumiller fled a violent relationship, leaving the Fort Belknap Reservation—the only home she’d ever known—for the YWCA’s battered women’s shelter in mostly-white Missoula.
“I remember feeling so uncomfortable,” said Neumiller, describing Missoula as a “foreign” city to her. “I was so beaten down, and I was the only person of color. I felt really, really out of place.”
That experience motivated Neumiller to volunteer to facilitate YWCA Missoula’s new support group for Native women survivors of domestic violence, slated to begin Tuesday, June 3.
Neumiller’s group, a “talking circle,” as she calls it, will feature curriculum that is multicultural and spirituality-based. For example, the group will smudge to cleanse, pray and ask for blessings over the group at beginning and the end of each session, and beading will likely be a regular activity.
“I think it’s helpful to have other people there who are the same color,” said Neumiller, who is Assiniboine and Sioux. “It’s hard to realize that when you are the majority. I wondered how it could have happened that I felt so low because of my violent relationship that I also felt not good enough because of my skin color.”
Finding facilitators who are Native has been a struggle for the YWCA, so they approached the Missoula Indian Center for help and will hold a two-day training May 21 - 22 for those interested in leading support groups.
“The Y approached us initially because they were saying [at the time] 50 percent of women in the shelter were Native, and they were having a hard time getting these women to open up,” explained Karen Neumiller, who runs the clinic at the center.
Patty Murphy manages the YWCA’s transitional housing program for homeless women and their children. Because her clients attend support groups as part of their housing contract, she sees the value in having facilitators they can relate to.
“The YWCA strives to be a safe and welcoming place, and we want the women we serve to feel as comfortable as possible when they come to our groups, especially given all they’ve had to overcome in their lives,” Murphy said.
Emergency shelter manager Bridget Hanna agreed.
“Many of our clients turn to the Indian Center for help,” Hanna said. “The YWCA jumped on this opportunity to partner with them to make the support groups comfortable for everyone.”
American Indians’ speech patterns and body language can be misunderstood by people unfamiliar with reservation life and tribal traditions, Neumiller said. The characteristic pauses in the speech of older Native Americans, as well as the lack of eye contact can confuse white people, she said.
“Some tribes consider eye contact aggressive,” Neumiller said. “Just knowing little things like that makes huge difference.”
Neumiller said she’s glad the YWCA is building bridges with the Indian community.
“I hadn’t experienced racism and discrimination in my life until I moved to Missoula,” she said. “It was really difficult. Looking around and seeing someone the same color as you makes you feel comfortable.”
The training for Native American support groups facilitators will be held May 21 and May 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at YWCA Missoula. Call 543-6691 to register.
Forum on 05.09.08 @ 05:59 PM MDT [link]

"OUT AT THE LIBRARY" EVENTS AT MISSOULA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Missoula Public Library is hosting “Out at the Library,” a LGBT historical exhibit from April 17-May 31. The library is offering a five week Queer Literary Festival to accompany the exhibit, including these great events:

Montana’s LGBT Heritage: The Power of Thomas Savage, Tuesday May 20, 7-8 p.m., Missoula Public Library
A discussion of the life and work of the author of Montana’s first gay cowboy novel. Featuring
UM-Western professor Alan Weltzien and Out at the Library curator Karl Olson.

Book Discussion: Queer Heroes & Teen Queens, Wednesday May 21, 7-9 p.m., Missoula Public Library
Hash over a classic or new LGBT book for teens with MPL Young Adult Librarian Linette Ivanovitch. Not sure what to read? Grab a list of teen LGBT titles online or at the YA desk.

“Out at the Library: Celebrating the James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center” is organized and circulated by the San Francisco Public Library. Major local funding for Out at the Library is provided by Highstakes Foundation, Montana Human Rights Network, and David C Moomey. The Missoula Public Library provides programs, materials and services to meet the informational, cultural, recreational and educational needs of Missoula and outlying areas. If anyone attending the programs needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665). The Missoula Public Library is located at 301 East Main Street.
Forum on 05.09.08 @ 05:54 PM MDT [link]

NCBI OFFERS DIVERSITY FOCUSED CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING

DATE: Friday, May 16th, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Lambros Conference Center, 3011 American Way
CONTACT: Tessa Johnson, NCBI
406-541-6891
1130 W. Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802
ncbi@ncbimissoula.org

To help Missoula businesses, the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) is once again offering two sessions of its “Effective Customer Service” training on Friday, May 16th. This concentrated training builds leadership among employees while targeting effective methods for serving an increasingly diverse customer base. Owner of Betty’s Divine and previous participant of the Effective Customer Service training, Aimee McQuilkin, said, "NCBI offers great additional training for employees. Their workshops are helpful in networking with other businesses and great for hearing other people's experiences and points of view." Sponsorship from First Interstate Bank allows NCBI to offer this training to Missoula for a registration fee of only $20. On-line registration is available at www.ncbimissoula.org.

The Effective Customer Service training provides participants with an understanding of the impact of diversity on the customer/service provider relationship. This training is designed to be affordable for large and small businesses. Further, the repeating morning and afternoon sessions offer opportunities for workforces to train multiple employees. Through experiential activities, participants will examine challenges to providing quality customer service to a diverse consumer base. Also, they will learn new approaches for creating a welcoming service environment.

Past Effective Customer Service trainings have produced high approval ratings and many businesses find the investment in NCBI trainings to be extremely worthwhile. One participant said, “I liked the interaction with other people working on social justice issues and feeling at ease and comfortable talking to people about potentially difficult things.”

Creating welcoming businesses can be challenging for employers. All employees bring differing experiences and backgrounds to the workplace. Also, employees have varying degrees of comfort and experience serving Missoula’s diverse community. Fortunately, NCBI provides an extensive slate of trainings and workshops to meet community needs. Also, NCBI offers consultation and facilitation services to non-profit organizations, city government offices, and small businesses in Missoula and across the state.

Montana is often incorrectly viewed as lacking diversity, and therefore, as immune to discrimination. However, our communities are increasingly diverse with regard to ethnic and cultural heritage, religion, sexual orientation, economic class, ability, and many other factors. To register for Effective Customer Service or to see the other ways NCBI can serve your business, call NCBI at 541-6891 or visit their website at www.ncbimissoula.org.

Amie Thurber
NCBI Missoula
1130 W. Broadway
Missoula, MT 59802
(406)541-6891
www.ncbimissoula.org
Forum on 05.09.08 @ 05:51 PM MDT [link]

School nutrition policy can prevent obesity

Program interventions included replacing soda with water, low-fat milk
and 100 percent fruit juice, and ridding vending machines and cafeterias
of snacks that didn't meet certain nutrition criteria. Additionally,
students and parents were educated on how diet and exercise affect their
health.

Philadelphia schools that eliminated soda, revamped snack selections and
took other measures to prevent childhood obesity were able to halve the
odds of students becoming overweight by sixth grade.

Schools are considered by some to be an ideal place for children to
learn healthy eating and exercise habits, but the results of
school-based programs have been mixed.

This particular study utilized a program developed by a non-profit
community group called the Food Trust. Ten schools participated in the
study; half randomly assigned to adopt the nutrition program, while the
other half served as a comparison group.

The 1,349 students were followed from fourth to sixth grade, and the
result was a 50 percent reduction in the incidence (new cases) of
overweight at the end of 2 years among the children attending the
program schools, while no changes were seen among the children attending
the schools without the program. However, no differences in the
prevalence of obesity were seen in either group.

This study shows that comprehensive programs, which combine
environmental change with individual and group education, have the
potential to yield positive results related to the prevention of
childhood obesity.

Click on the link below to read the full article:

Click Here

Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:28 AM MDT [link]

‘Queer Youth Speak’

Teens ages 13-18 are invited to watch “Queer Youth Speak,” a documentary film of San Francisco teens responding to the “Out at the Library” exhibit, and then join in a discussion led by members of Hellgate High School’s Gay Straight Alliance at Missoula Public Library Wednesday, May 14, at 7 p.m.
Missoula Public Library is hosting “Out at the Library,” a LGBT historical exhibit from April 17-May 31, including a series of author visits, film screenings, and discussion groups to accompany the exhibit. “Out at the Library: Celebrating the James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center” is organized and circulated by the San Francisco Public Library. Major local funding for Out at the Library is provided by Highstakes Foundation, Montana Human Rights Network, and David C Moomey. The Missoula Public Library provides programs, materials and services to meet the informational, cultural, recreational and educational needs of Missoula and outlying areas. If anyone attending the program needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665). The Missoula Public Library is located at 301 East Main Street.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:21 AM MDT [link]

Cheap Date Night at the library

Friday night is the perfect night for a movie – and even better when it’s free. Come to Missoula Public Library for Cheap Date Night Friday, May 16, at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and close at 7:15 p.m. for this after-hours event. Enter from the parking lot side of the building.
Cheap Date Night offers free movies at the library every third Friday of the month. A full schedule of library events can be found at www.missoulapubliclibrary.org. If anyone attending these programs needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665). The library is located at 301 East Main.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:21 AM MDT [link]

Afternoon Matinee at the library

Transport yourself back in time and enjoy a classic movie at the Missoula Public Library’s Afternoon Matinee. The next matinee will be Wednesday, May 14, at 2 p.m. If anyone attending the movie needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665). For future matinee events, visit the library’s website at www.missoulapubliclibrary.org or call the library at 721-2665.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:20 AM MDT [link]

Gnome Entry Celebration at Library

Help Missoula Public Library celebrate our new Gnome Entrance to the children’s department with an Open House Saturday, May 17, at 2 p.m. Meet the designers, builders and artists who made the library’s famous gnome house come alive with a life-size entryway. Librarians will tell special gnome stories.
The gnome entryway, aimed at capturing our youngest patrons’ imaginations and defining a children’s place in the library, is part of the library’s ongoing redesign project. The project includes renovations in the young adult department, an Entertainment Central area for all videos and audios, new self-checkout and self-serve holds pickup, end-of-range catalog stations for ease in searching, a redesigned returns and accounts desk, living room seating areas, and more. Stop by the library to see the floor plan design, or visit our blog for constant updates at www.missoulapubliclibrary.org.
If anyone attending the open house needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665). The library is located at 301 East Main. Hours are Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday 1-5 p.m.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:19 AM MDT [link]

“GUTS! Gears up for Girls Outdoors Adventures”

The registration deadline is fast approaching for girls interested in increasing their leadership skills and experiencing outdoor adventure this summer. Applications are due by May 10th for the GUTS! Summer Outdoor Adventure Program.
This summer, the GUTS! leadership program will take girls ages 11 – 18 on four trips that promise to be “the adventure of a lifetime” according to Jen Euell, GUTS! director. Trips are organized by age level and outdoor experience. A suggested donation of $350 is requested, however scholarships are available. Descriptions of each trip and camper applications are available at www.ywcaofmissoula.org or by calling 543.6691.
Trips are led by qualified women instructors who will instill confidence in the girls as they summit high mountain peaks and enjoy the sparkling lakes and rushing rivers of the Montana backcountry for six nights and seven days. Through backpacking, canoeing and rock-climbing and the ethics of “leave no trace” camping, GUTS! girls will increase their self-confidence, hone their individual leadership skills and cultivate their appreciation for the natural world in an environment free from societal pressures and gender stereotypes. Here is the schedule:

June 24 - 29 – Beginners’ Middle School Trip – Great for first-time GUTS! adventurers, ages 11-13. This trip will be based on beautiful and isolated Wild Horse Island on Flathead Lake and incorporates canoeing, kayaking, orienteering and backpacking.
July 15 - 20 - Advanced Middle School – Perfect for girls ages 11-13 who have attended at least one previous Summer Outdoor Adventure, this trip incorporates mountain biking, orienteering and backpacking in Missoula’s backdoor paradise, the Rattlesnake Wilderness.
July 22 - 27 – Beginners’ High School Trip – Great for first-time GUTS! adventurers, ages 14-18, this trip is based in the spectacular Bitterroot Valley and incorporates canoeing, rock-climbing, backpacking and organic farming.
August 3 - 9 - Advanced High School Trip- Perfect for ages 14-18, this trip is open to girls who have attended at least one previous Summer Outdoor Adventure. Location details TBA.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:19 AM MDT [link]

Real Meals - for Women

Thursday, May 8

Menu: Red Chile soup with local shitake mushrooms and homemade tortillas

Orchard Gardens Community Barn

210 N. Grove Street

5:00 pm Meal prep begins

Dining around 7:00 pm

Participants are welcome throughout the event- early starters or join us for
dinner- whatever suits your schedule.

"Real meals" a project of the NMCDC and the Missoula Community Co-op and is
a meal prepared and shared by women in collaboration to create community and
opportunity. Women celebrate the sharing of vision, labor, skills and
nourishment. Real meals' utilizes local food as much as possible for each
meal. Participants will take portions of the meal home for freezing, family
or healthy leftovers.

Meals are held every second Thursday of the month at Orchard Gardens
Community Barn, 210 N. Grove Street from 5:00-9:00 pm. Suggested donation is
$7 or whatever you can contribute.

EBT Cards are accepted. Call Kate for details, or transportation
arrangements at 728-2369.

Please RSVP at 728-2369 or 880-COOP.

Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:17 AM MDT [link]

AWARD WINNING FILMMAKER HARDY JONES TO RECEIVE IWFF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Hardy Jones is a wildlife and conservation filmmaker. He is this year’s IWFF Lifetime Achievement Award Winner for Media. In 2000, Hardy Jones along with film actor and ocean activist Ted Danson co-founded BlueVoice.org. The Web-based organization uses television and the Internet to publicize ocean issues. One of the group's main concerns is the alarming level of contamination in the oceans - bio-accumulating in the food web from plankton to fish, marine mammals, then and humans. Jones has fought for nearly thirty years to stop the killing and capture of dolphins in Japan.

Hardy Jones will be giving a Welcome Address and Keynote about The State of Our Seas on Tuesday, May 13th at 9:30pm at the Roxy Theater – International Wildlife Media Center. He will receive his Lifetime Achievement Award on Friday, May 16th at 6pm during the IWFF Awards Gala at the UC Ballroom, University Center, University of Montana.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:15 AM MDT [link]

‘My Vietnam’ book reading & signing at Frenchtown library

For the past 10 years, a group of local Vietnam veterans have visited with Frenchtown High School students to share their experiences from that war. Now those veterans have collected their stories into “My Vietnam: Montana Veterans Tell Their Stories Straight from the Heart.” On Monday, May 12, at 7:30 p.m., residents can hear the stories read by the authors at a book reading, signing and reception at the Frenchtown School & Community Library. Included in the book, which is scheduled for release in May, are examples of poetry and comments by present and former students.
If anyone attending the program needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 626-2683. The Frenchtown School & Community Library is Missoula Public Library’s newest branch. It is open Tuesday 3:30-7 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 5-9 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m., offering children’s programs, a rotating collection of materials, Internet access, and special events.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:11 AM MDT [link]

Tumbleweed Vacancy

We are seeking to fill a Resident Assistant Position through Tumbleweed
Program, Inc. This position is for a Resident Assistant at the Independent
Living House that is located in Missoula. The person that fills this position
will receive room and board at no cost. Please see the attachment for further
details. For more information or if you are interested please call Lynda
Sowell @ 406-454-3440.

JB.doc (28k file)
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:08 AM MDT [link]

Can You Hear Me Now? A conversation cafe where parents and youth can eat, laugh, talk, and be heard

6 pm - 8:30 pm Tuesday, May 20th
At the YMCA!

FREE!
Indian Tacos
Parent and youth panel
Conversation Cafe
Live music
Life is busy. Here’s a chance to kick back, enjoy a delicious (free!) meal, and talk with other parents and kids about making the tween and teen years fun and successful.

How can parents and teens:
stay close and connected
talk about tough issues
prevent teen drinking and drug use
avoid and survive difficult times
support each other
connect with others
and have fun?
Both youth and parents will have a chance to speak out and be heard. A youth and parent panel will provide expert advice and share personal stories. Join us and make Missoula an even better place for kids and families. (Parents are welcome, with or without youth. Youth are welcome, with or without parents.)

This Town Hall meeting is sponsored by the Missoula Underage Substance Abuse Prevention Team of the Missoula Forum for Children and Youth.

Contact Jori Frakie w/ questions and to RSVP - parentsandyouthtownhall@gmail.com or call 258-3798.
Thanks to everyone who is helping make this event possible: Lisa Beczkiewicz, Sienna Clayborn and Bonnie Walchuk (The Flagship Program); Jon Kinzle (Youth for Christ); Donna Hamilton (Prudential Montana Real Estate); Kari Watkins (Zip Beverage); Ric McLeod (Pattee Street Counseling); Katherine Kosma (St. Patrick Hospital); Steve Lohning and Tina Snell (Missoula Indian Center); Peggy Seel (Office of Planning and Grants); Jason Shearer and Levi Diggs (YMCA); Marianne Moon (MCPS); Brook Clark and Allison Kinney (Family Resource Centers of WORD, Inc.); and Michele Keller (Project Success).
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 11:02 AM MDT [link]

May is Teen Pregnancy Month

YOU ARE INVITED!

May is Teen Pregnancy Prevention month. The Teen
Pregnancy Prevention Art Show sponsored by MAPPPS is
tonight (Friday, May 2nd) from 5:30-9:00pm. Please
join us at 127 N. Higgins for the art show. You will
have the opportunity to view art work and read stories
written about Teen Pregnancy. All art and stories
were contributed by youth and adults in the Missoula
community. We celebrate your contributions to this
cause and hope that you can visit with us this
evening.
Forum on 05.02.08 @ 10:55 AM MDT [link]

New Web Hosting for Missoula Fourm web site

Zoola Moves has is now hosting the web sites for MissoulaForum.org. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to email Bob Campbell or give me a call at 406-544-9176.

Zoolamoves is a local web hosting and email company.

Forum on 04.27.08 @ 12:31 PM MDT [link]

ALASTAIR FOTHERGILL TO PRESENT AT IWFF

31st International Wildlife Film Festival - Missoula, Montana
The Changing Planet: A Global Evolution in Media & Conservation

SPECIAL PRESENTATION & DINNER RECEPTION

SPONSORED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA - MISSOULA
PRESIDENT GEORGE M. DENNISON
& THE 31ST INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE FILM FESTIVAL

Alastair Fothergill, Executive Producer of the BBC’s Planet Earth Series

"From Planet Earth to Saving Planet Earth”
A lavishly illustrated visual presentation about the making of the landmark series and the sentimental programming that supported it

THURSDAY MAY 15TH at the UC THEATER
BEGINNING AT 5:30PM
Tickets & Information, contact: IWFF @ (406) 728-9380

International Wildlife Media Center & Film Festival
718. S. Higgins Ave. · Missoula MT 59801 · tel: (406) 728-9380 fax: (406) 728-2881
Web: www.wildlifefilms.org
Email: iwff@wildlifefilms.org
Contact: Janet Rose
406.728.9380, 880-0683
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:29 PM MDT [link]

PET OWNERS CAN HELP KEEP PARKS SAFE, CLEAN

Dog owners are being reminded; pick up after your pooch and use a leash to keep parks safe and fun for everyone. Missoula Animal Control and Missoula Parks and Recreation have joined forces to sponsor “People, Pets and Parks Week”, April 28 through May 4; which features an enforcement blitz to remind pet owners about their legal responsibilities in public spaces.

“Dog waste and dogs off-leash in busy parks and trails are among the most common complaints of citizens who use Missoula’s trails, parks and playgrounds,” says Parks and Recreation Director Donna Gaukler. “Pet waste can spread disease and pollute waterways—that's a public health issue. Off-leash dogs can scare citizens, impede bike travel on trails, or disrupt others’ use of parks. We need pet owners to step up and take responsibility for their pets, keep their pets safe, keep parks clean, and respect other users.”

“We have been asked by the City to step up enforcement around the parks to make sure people understand that it’s not just courteous, responsible, safer behavior, it is required by City ordinance,” says Missoula Animal Control Director Ed Franceschina. Animal Control estimates Missoula’s dog population at 25,000 to 35,000—just about one dog for every two people. That’s a number which has a huge impact on parks, trails and open space.

City ordinance requires that dogs must be leashed on all city streets, trails and parks and pet owners must immediately remove their pet’s waste from public spaces.   Missoula Animal Control and the Missoula Police Department may issue citations for violations of City Ordinance #3310 which can carry fines from $25 to $500. Mutt Mitt dispensers are readily available in parks and at trailheads. Off-leash dog parks are located at Jacob’s Island Bark Park and Fort Missoula and dogs may be off-leash in designated areas on city conservation lands.

When left in city parks and trails, dog waste infects the soil and grass with harmful bacteria and contaminates local rivers and streams through run-off.   Children run the greatest risk of infection when they play in parks or playgrounds and then put their hands in their mouths or rub their eyes with their hands. Even a group of teens or adults playing Frisbee or touch football in an open area could be in danger. “The risk of disease transmission, including exposure to Campylobacter, Giardia, Cryptosporidiosis and other diseases resulting in severe diarrhea, is greatly increased in all of these circumstances,” says Shelly Meyer, Infectious Disease Specialist at Missoula City-County Health Department. Contrary to popular belief, dog waste is a not a fertilizer because it is very high in nitrogen and can kill desirable grasses and native plants, allowing noxious weeds to flourish.

Encouraging healthy outdoor activity by making parks attractive and accessible to everyone is an important public health goal. “Inactivity and obesity have become a national public health crisis. One great way to get out and moving in Missoula is to enjoy our parks and trails,” says Greg Oliver, Health Promotion Director at Missoula City-County Health Department. “There is something for all ages, from toddlers to our oldest residents. If you take your dog with you, please do your part to keep our parks safer and more appealing. Let’s make it work for everyone.”

City leash laws are designed to keep parks and public spaces safe for people and pets. Other park visitors may not want to meet your dog, particularly if they are accompanied by a child, afraid of dogs, elderly, or accompanied by a leashed dog, says Gaukler. Some people may be traumatized by the encounter. Dog owners should never assume that other park visitors will enjoy contact with their dog. In addition, it’s much easier to pick up after your pet when he is leashed. And on conservation lands, like Mount Jumbo or the Rattlesnake Greenway, “Uncontrolled dogs can negatively impact others’ use of open space, harm wildlife, damage vegetation, pollute water sources, and destroy the very qualities we hope to preserve with open space,” Gaukler added.

The focus of the “People, Pets and Parks” campaign is to remind citizens of these easy steps to being a responsible pet owner:

·         Take advantage of the Mutt Mitts offered in dispensers at local parks.

·         Leash your dog at all times on city streets and trails, in city parks, and where required on open space lands.

·         Ensure you always have extra bags in your car so you are prepared when you travel with your dog. Carry extra bags when walking your dog and make them available to other pet owners who are without. One responsible pet owner recommends keeping a couple of bags tied to the handle of the dog leash at all times.

·         Tell friends and neighbors about the harmful effects of animal waste on the environment. Encourage them to clean up after and leash pets.

·         Never assume that other park visitors will enjoy contact with your dog. Just as you would not allow your child to jump on or approach strangers, you should not allow your pet to do so.

·         If concern for others or your pet isn't enough to get you to pick up after and leash your dog, think of the potential impact it could have on your wallet. You can be fined up to $500 for a violation of the animal control ordinance. Section 6.08.450 MMC; Section 1.20.020 MMC and Section 7-5-4207 MCA.

Donna Gaukler
Director
Missoula Parks and Recreation
406-552-6265 dgaukler@ci.missoula.mt.us
www.missoulaparks.org

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:15 PM MDT [link]

BILINGUAL STORY TIMES "EN TU BIBLIOTECA"

Celebrate El dia de los niños/El dia de los libros “en tu bilbioteca” when Missoula Public Library offers a bilingual Story Time on Friday, May 2 at 10:30 a.m. and Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. Plus, enjoy a special “Cinco de Mayo” Story Time on Monday, May 5 at 7 p.m. Children’s librarian Karen Gonzales plus guest readers Linda Bailey and Steve Gonzales will read stories in English and Spanish. While you’re in the library, stop by our Spanish book and culture display in the Children’s Room. Everyone is invited.
All story-time programs are free and held on a drop-in basis. If anyone attending these programs needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665). The Missoula Public Library is located at 301 East Main Street. For more information on the library’s children’s programs, call 721-2665 or visit www.missoulapubliclibrary.org.

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:12 PM MDT [link]

RESPECT CLUB RELEASES BOOK "INDIFFERENCE"

DATE: Wednesday, May 7th, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Dauphine’s Bakery and Café, 130 E. Broadway

CONTACT: Tessa Johnson, NCBI
406-541-6891
1130 W. Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802
ncbi@ncbimissoula.org

Missoula’s middle school Respect Club will host a book release at Dauphine’s Bakery and Café on Wednesday, May 7th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This exciting project is the product of an entire year of bringing together the 24 Respect Club students to learn about the impact of violence and prejudice in their community and what they can do to stop it. Entitled “InDifference”, the book offers an extraordinary collection of poetry, art, photos, comics, essays, and interviews from the 11-14 year old students. The students decided to create the book as a thoughtful response to the specific issues of homophobia, cliques, and stereotypes.

The book’s title “InDifference” illustrates how the Respect Clubs bring together students with different backgrounds to impact their environment together. Also, the title identifies the patterns of apathy and ignorance that allow the problems of mistreatment, and violence to persist. Each year, the Respect Club students decide upon an action project to address key issues in their schools and communities. Previous projects have included a bill board, a photography exhibit, and a mural. This year, students wanted to express themselves in a collection of their creative work that captures their personal experiences with hatred and violence.

The book release at Dauphines concludes a powerful and meaningful year of the Respect Club after school leadership development program facilitated by the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI). As one of NCBI’s many school based programs, the Respect Clubs have been bringing together diverse Missoula middle school students for the past five years. Participating students find a safe space to express their emotions positively and be their true selves. Also, Respect Club students learn skills to identify and interrupt mistreatment. Leadership development and community building are natural products of engaging young people on these important issues. One Respect Club participant shared, “When I’m in Respect Club I know I can share anything without being ridiculed, and just be myself. Respect Club is also a way to meet new people you may have ignored before and let other people know you.”

“InDifference” highlights the creativity and learning of each Respect Club student. In addition to poetry and essays, the book contains dramatic visual pieces such as collages, drawings, and graphs. In the book’s introduction, Sarah Willstein explains “There is a time when parents need to tell children the truth and children the same. A time when we need to exchange hate for love and war for peace. A time where there will be no violence or stereotypes, just acceptance. If there was a time like this, the world would have to understand and work together. We would have to look from the other side of the line and look deep inside to realize our differences… But we can’t just sit down and tell people this, we have to STAND UP, go out into the world and make the difference.”

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:11 PM MDT [link]

MISSOULA COUNTY DISASTER DRILL SATURDAY MAY 10

Reliable volunteers are needed to role play “disaster victims” for a mock disaster drill on Saturday, May 10, 2008 from 7 am - 3 pm. Missoula City/County emergency responders (sheriff and police departments, rural/local fire departments, health department and Missoula hospitals) will conduct the disaster drill at the Missoula International Airport. Jump on board this unique volunteer project and help emergency responders test their preparedness. To volunteer or for more information contact Helen at Missoula Aging Services 728-7682.

Volunteers need to:

1. Provide their own transportation to/from the drill site (Missoula Airport)

2. Spend the day engaged in all related drill activities

3. Lie/sit down on the ground/floor for an extended period of time

4. Get up and down from the ground/floor without assistance

5. Be physically lifted and moved to triage locations (at local hospitals)

6. Wear “injury” make-up and costuming

7. Remain calm and patient with the drill process. There will be short periods of drama mixed with extended periods of waiting and idleness (a great time to read a small paperback book!).

This can be a great family, service club or group event! Contact Helen at Missoula Aging Services for more information.

To volunteer or for more information contact Helen at Missoula Aging Services 728-7682.

Colleen A. Baldwin, Volunteer Services Program Manager
Missoula Aging Services
337 Stephens
Missoula, MT 59801
406-728-7682 fax 406-728-7687
cabaldwin@missoulaagingservices.org

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:10 PM MDT [link]

MOUNTAIN HOME HAS OPENINGS

Dear Forum Members,

Mountain Home, a home for teen mothers and their children currently has 2 homeless beds available. Our waiting list fills up quickly, so please contact us ASAP.

Eligibility:

Teen mothers aged 14 to 20

Pregnant or parenting

Homeless as defined by HUD (persons living on the street, homeless shelter, transitional housing, facing eviction or evicted, leaving an institution or fleeing domestic violence)

Willing to comply with program policies

Please download an intake application on our website or contact our Case Manager, Stephanie Moderie at 541-4663 to make a referral.

Gypsy Ray
Executive Director
Mountain Home Montana
406-541-4663
www.mountainhomemt.org

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:08 PM MDT [link]

UNPLUG AND PLAY! SCREEN FREE WEEK 2008

In light of the recent research project done by the University of Montana and the Missoula City-County Health Department that highlighted an overall lack of physical activity in Missoula’s youth, many people have been asking, what can we do? One simple approach is to encourage people, especially families, to reduce their free time in front of screens (TVs, personal computers, games, etc) and move more instead.

As part of this effort, the Missoula City-County Health Department is supporting national Screen Free Week – Unplug and Play, April 21-27, 2008 that just happens to coincide this year with Missoula’s Bike Walk Bus Week 2008. Screen Free Week encourages people to try a week without leisure-time screen activity, whether it be TV, movies, computers, video games, or internet.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no television or videos for children 2 and under, no more than two hours of total quality screen time for older children and no TVs in children’s bedrooms. However, youth today spend more time in front of the TV, video and computer than they spend on anything else besides sleeping. The increasing use of screen time has numerous potential effects on health and society including: Interfering with developing a good self-concept and body image, taking away from time spent talking, playing, and connecting with family and friends, affecting reading skills, is associated with poorer school performance, causing attention span problems, glamorizing violence, exposing children to adult behaviors, such as sex, alcohol, tobacco and drug use, taking the place of physical activity and subsequent weight gain, and is associated with sleep pattern disturbances.

There are many alternatives to screen time, activities that can help increase activity levels, encourage healthier behaviors, and bring families closer together. If a week seems like too much, try going screen free for a day. Challenge your friends and family to try it too. Plan alternative activities that you’ve wanted to do. Tie it in with the many fun things that are going on during Bike Walk Bus Week. Cook a healthy dinner. Volunteer with a local non-profit. Plant a garden. The possibilities are endless.

Missoula City-County Health Department has developed an Unplug and Play brochure that is also available at various places around town. In addition, a Screen Free display in the Missoula Public Library lists alternatives to screen time. Additional promotion is being done by the Missoula Forum for Children and Youth, who are providing magnets and information to parents all week in the YMCA lobby and at the Riverbank Run on Saturday, April 26, 2008. Contact Ellie Greenwood for more information at 406-258-4965, egreenwood@co.missoula.mt.us. To see what else is happening around the state, check out http://www.montananapa.org/tvscreen.html.

Contact: Erin Kautz, 258-3889, kautzer@ho.missoula.mt.us, Community Health Specialist
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:05 PM MDT [link]

TRAINING ON BIPOLAR DISORDER

Walla Walla University, Master of Social Work Program, is offering a brief training on bipolar disorder. This is a training at a reduced rate since we are just attempting our continuing ed options for the Missoula area. If you need some additional info or if you have questions please contact me.

Karen Emerson LCSW
Field Practicum Coordinator
Walla Walla University - Missoula
549-4928

FLYER: RandyCEU_flyer2[1](2)[1].pdf (44k file)
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:02 PM MDT [link]

LEARNING ON THE GO: LITERACY TIPS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

Ready, Set, Write!
Writing skills begin long before a child goes to school. In order to become writers someday, babies and young children need to strengthen their fingers and hands, practice fine motor skills, and make their eyes and hands work together. They do this by—PLAYING!
Babies love to hold, feel, and manipulate things. They like to shake rattles, bang spoons on pots, pick up small pieces of food, stroke stuffed animals, play with soap, and turn pages on a board book. All these activities help them get ready for writing. When baby is a little older, you can show her how you write and give her fat markers so she can help. Toddlers can make marks on your grocery list or “sign” a card to grandma. Everyday play and activities—such as finger painting, molding play dough, holding a spoon or toothbrush, playing with wooden puzzles, and turning the pages of books—can strengthen muscles and hone fine motor skills.
Preschoolers really start to understand what writing is all about. Give preschoolers easy access to writing materials and help them start to learn to recognize and write some letters. Maybe your preschooler can draw a picture for grandpa and even sign it with one or two letters of his name! It’s very important to reward all efforts at writing at this age—don’t worry that your child is not making the letters exactly “right.” Also help him improve his fine motor skills by teaching him how to use scissors and providing puzzles and toys with small pieces to manipulate.
With lots of opportunities to use her hands playing and writing, your child will be ready for blackboards and pencils when she goes to school!

Susan Barmeyer
Healthy Start Council
P.O. Box 3805
Missoula, MT 59806
406-728-5437
healthystart@parentingplace.net

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 05:00 PM MDT [link]

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Single Parenting
Tuesday 04/29/2008 6:30-8:00PM
Presented by Joyce Mphande-Finn
Location: Hawthorne Elementary
Being a single parent is a big job. Learn how to balance work, school and kids. We'll talk about how to create a warm and loving environment for your child without stretching yourself too thin. Call MCPS Adult Ed to pre-register: 549-8765.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS PIZZA FOR PARENTS: Emotional Intelligence
Wednesday 05/07/2008 11:00-12:15PM
Location: Russell Elementary
Learn how to help your child increase awareness of their own feelings, the ability to empathize with other people and improve their listening skills. We'd all like to raise kids who are well-adjusted, happy, and successful, and parenting with empathy can aid our efforts. We’ll talk about recognizing our own feelings and the feelings of others, empathetic responses and self-discipline in parenting. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Relatives as Parents
Wednesday 05/07/2008
Presented by Cassidy Aafedt
Location: YMCA
7:00-9:00 PM
Relatives often step in when children need to be raised in safer, healthier, environments. The unexpected physical, emotional, financial and legal demands can be daunting. This program helps kinship families find answers to difficult questions, gain access to resources and receive support through a community of families in similar situations. Class is Free! and Childcare is provided. Call 721-7690 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Positive Discipline for Early Childhood
Wednesday 05/07/2008
Presented by Karin Fodness
Location: Pablo Headstart
7:00-9:00PM
Kids need boundaries to help them feel secure and know they are being cared for and loved. Learn how to lovingly set limits before things get out of hand and you find your buttons pushed. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Tune Up for Couples
Wednesday 05/07/2008
Presented by Kevin Dohr
Location: Families First
6:00-8:00PM
Not exactly a “date night”, but a night out that will do your relationship some good! This two-part class is a refresher on communication skills that will keep you and your partner on track. Please call 721-7690 to pre-register. Class is Free and childcare is provided.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Getting Ready for Middle School
Thursday 05/08/2008
Presented by Cheryl Minnick
Location: Paxson Elementary
6:30-8:00PM

Middle school can be a tough time for pre-teens. They face many new issues beyond attending a new school, including: puberty, tougher academics, more personal responsibilities, switching classes, boy-girl dances, and multiple teachers. Pre-teens may try the boundaries, test the waters and sometimes test your patience. This fun, light-hearted class provides tips and practical advice for preparing pre-teens for middle school. Call MCPS Adult Ed to pre-register: 549-8765.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS PIZZA FOR PARENTS: Emotional Intelligence
Friday 05/09/2008 11:00-12:15PM
Location: Russell Elementary
Learn how to help your child increase awareness of their own feelings, the ability to empathize with other people and improve their listening skills. We'd all like to raise kids who are well-adjusted, happy, and successful, and parenting with empathy can aid our efforts. We’ll talk about recognizing our own feelings and the feelings of others, empathetic responses and self-discipline in parenting. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS: Divorced & Shared Parenting Part 1: What’s Best for the Kids
Tuesday 05/13/2008 6:00-9:00 PM
Presented by Brad Boylan & Ann Szalda Petree
Location: Families FIrst
Learn methods for coping, what helps kids, how to improve family communication, and maximize quality time with your kids. Class is $35, Childcare is provided. Call 721-7690 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS But All the Cool Kids are Doing It!
Tuesday 05/13/2008 6:30-8:00PM
Presented by Barbara Cowan
Location: Washington Middle School
Ready or not, you have a middle schooler in the house. Name brand clothing, cell phones, instant messaging--so much has changed, and yet, so much has stayed the same. We'll talk about adolescence, peer pressure, and how to support your child as he or she deals with social interactions, grapples with moral issues, and strives to define his or her own identity. Call MCPS Adult Ed to pre-register: 549-8765.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Tune Up for Couples
Wednesday 05/14/2008
Presented by Kevin Dohr
Location: Families First
6:00-8:00PM
Not exactly a “date night”, but a night out that will do your relationship some good! This two-part class is a refresher on communication skills that will keep you and your partner on track. Please call 721-7690 to pre-register. Class is Free and childcare is provided.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Emotional Intelligence
Wednesday May 14 7-9PM
Presented by Barbara Cowan
We'd all like to raise kids who are well-adjusted, happy, and successful. Research shows having a high emotional intelligence is a great predictor of job success as well as personal success. Learn how to help your child increase their awareness of their own feelings, the ability to empathize with other people, improve their listening skills and thus increase their emotional intelligence! Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Communicating with the Other Parent: Divorced & Shared Parenting Part II
Saturday 05/17/2008 9:00AM – NOON
Presented by Brad Boylan & Ann Szalda-Petree
Location: Families First
Building on the first class, explore how to relate to your co-parent and get tips for parenting after divorce.
Class is $35 and includes childcare. Call 721-7690 to pre-register.

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:57 PM MDT [link]

EAT SMART LXXVIII: LOCAL FOOD IS GOOD FOOD

Read the Eat Smart newsletter here LOCAL.FOOD.IS.GOOD.FOOD.pdf (278k file)
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:54 PM MDT [link]

YOUTH VOLUNTEERING

April 25-27 - Global Youth Service Day is a great time to celebrate the energy and creativity that youth bring to any volunteer activity. Learn more at the Youth Service America website – www.ysa.org

May 28 - Hellgate Senior Service Day - On Wednesday, May 28 the seniors at Hellgate will be participating in Senior Service Day, a day when all of the students have to go out and help the community. Tim Adams the AmeriCorps Vista at Hellgate High School is looking for any organizations that are interested in taking a big of group of students for the day. The school will send the students out around 8:00 and hope to have them out to the site by 8:30. They want the students back by 2:55 pm. If you are interesting in participating please contact Tim at 406-728-2400 ext. 6025.

June 12 to August 27 - Summer Volunteers – The next generations of volunteers are about to have a lot more time on their hands! Does your agency need any summer volunteers? Missoula County public school students get out for the summer on June 12th and they don’t go back until August 27th. That’s 76 days or 1824 hours of potential volunteering. This is a great opportunity to get some of those special projects done around the non-profit.

RECOGNIZING VOLUNTEERS
The Western Montana Volunteer Center (WMVC) will celebrate volunteers and their contributions to our community at Caras Park on Thursday, July 17, as a part of the Downtown Tonight evening music and food festival from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Volunteers from throughout Missoula are encouraged to attend wearing
t-shirts, caps or other clothing that identifies the agency they serve. Those volunteers who check in at the WMVC information table under the tent will receive a small thank you gift from the WMVC.
If your organization utilizes volunteers and would like more information about this event, please contact, Jane Stoll at (406) 552-6312
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:53 PM MDT [link]

MISSOULA PARKS AND RECREATION EARTH DAY EVENT APRIL 26

Missoula Parks and Recreation 712-7275

For immediate release 4-18-08

For more information: Conservation Lands Manager Morgan Valliant at 552-6263 or mvalliant@ci.missoula.mt.us.

Celebrate Earth Day with Parks and Recreation

Earth Day is traditionally celebrated on April 22, but Parks and Recreation, the Lewis and Clark Neighborhood Council and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation are celebrating later this month with volunteer restoration projects on City open space. Citizens may volunteer at the Children’s Fish Pond or on Mount Jumbo on Saturday, April 26.

Both projects begin at 9 a.m. At the Children’s Fish Pond on Bancroft and Southwest Higgins, volunteers will help restore shoreline vegetation that was disturbed during a pond restoration project last fall. Volunteers will help plant willows, dogwoods, and a variety of grasses. “In addition to doing something great for the community, volunteers will also have an opportunity to learn about wetland ecosystems,” said City Conservation Lands Manager Morgan Valliant. Lewis and Clark Neighborhood Council member Dennis Druffel said, “The neighborhood is very excited about the progress at Children’s Fish Pond. It’s “diamond in the rough” right now, but with the on-going efforts, it will soon be a “shining star” for the entire community.” Volunteers should call Dennis at 240-1260 to sign up.

On Mount Jumbo, the Five Valleys Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is organizing volunteers to remove some old barbed wire fencing that poses a hazard to Jumbo’s elk, deer and weed-eating sheep. Two work sites are planned. A portion of the volunteer force will hike above the “L” and should be in good physical condition to reach this site. An additional work site is located off the Saddle Road at the end of Lincoln Hills Drive and is easily accessible on flat terrain. Volunteers should meet at Cherry Street trailhead (the main 'L' trailhead) at 9 a.m. Overflow parking may be found on Taylor Street. To sign up, call Scott Nicolarsen at 369-1169.

For more information on these projects, contact Conservation Lands Manager Morgan Valliant at 552-6263 or mvalliant@ci.missoula.mt.us.

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:51 PM MDT [link]

MPHA ANNUAL MEETING AND CONFERENCE SEPTEMBER 9-11, 2008, BOZEMAN

MPHA is still accepting abstracts to present at their fall conference. The deadline has been extended to May 1, 2008.

The deadline for the Montana Public Health Association's invitation to present is May 1, 2008.
We encourage presentations in all areas of public health and are also interested in presentations that focus on the annual meeting theme "Public Health: Are We Ready?"

We welcome your submissions and look forward to your contribution at the MPHA Annual Meeting and Conference, September 9 - 11, 2008 in Bozeman MT. Questions call Lora Wier at 466-2562 or email health@3rivers.net

wORD DOCUMENT: InvitationtoPresent2008.doc (25k file)
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:49 PM MDT [link]

MONTANA NATURAL HISTORY CENTER HOSTS BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION ART SHOW

On May 2, 2008, plan to visit the Montana Natural History Center between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to view original botanical illustrations by local artists. Students from Nancy Seiler’s popular botanical illustration classes will show off their work for the entire month of May at the Center. Art will be available for purchase with a percentage benefiting educational programs at the Montana Natural History Center. Don’t miss this chance to see these beautiful works of art! For more information, contact Jessie Sherburne at 327-0405 or Nancy Seiler at 370-1254.

Jessie Sherburne
Community Programs Coordinator
Montana Natural History Center
120 Hickory St.
Missoula, MT 59801
(406)-327-0405
www.montananaturalist.org

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:46 PM MDT [link]

MONTANA NATURAL HISTORY CENTER EVENTS

Saturday Discovery Day
Spring Mushroom Walk with “The Mushroom Man” Larry Evans
Saturday, April 26th
10 am – 2 pm
$20 MNHC members, $25 Non-members
Join mushroom expert Larry Evans, aka The Mushroom Man, as he stalks the wild mushroom. He will be sure to show you ways to locate your favorite fungi (we hope to find morels) as well as ways to distinguish foul from favorable. Larry's ability to detect mushrooms is uncanny so be ready to see some fantastic fungus that is edible and otherwise!
Space is limited. Registration required. Please call 327-0405.

Fishers: Porcupine hunting specialists
Evening Lecture featuring Mike Schwartz
Wednesday, April 30th, 7 pm.
Join Mike Schwartz PhD, Rocky Mountain Research Station Ecologist, as he profiles the rare porcupine hunting specialist, the fisher. Dr. Schwartz will discuss the fishers' natural history and how he is working to establish their geographic range.
Call 327-0405 for more information.

Saturday Kids Activities for Spring 2008
Join us Saturday at 2 pm for a different exciting children’s program at MNHC. Admission is 50 cents for kids, $1 for adults and MNHC members are free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Be prepared to go outside. Programs run about an hour to an hour and a half. Great for kids ages 5 and older.
April 26 – Beaver Boogie!
Learn fantastic facts about this amazing semi-aquatic rodent. We will learn about beavers’ special adaptations and then we will take a walk to look for signs of beaver activity.

Jessie Sherburne
Community Programs Coordinator
Montana Natural History Center
120 Hickory St.
Missoula, MT 59801
(406)-327-0405
www.montananaturalist.org

Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:45 PM MDT [link]

MEA-MFT EDUCATORS CONFERENCE SEEKING PRESENTERS

Share with interested persons-- those who would be interested in presenting.

As presenters for Region 5 CSPD, I'd like to encourage you to offer to present!

The MEA-MFT Educator's Conference will be held in Missoula, Montana on October 16-17th and are looking for presenters. Presentations can be 50 minutes, 1 hour and 50 minutes or other amount you would prefer.

The Application to Present is available on the website at www.mea-mft.org. At the bottom of the page, under Other Info., is a link to the MEA-MFT Educators' Conference.

Deadline for applications is May 15, so please spread the word.

Nancy Marks
Forum on 04.25.08 @ 04:44 PM MDT [link]

EARLY HEAD START BOOKFAIR

CALENDAR OF EVENTS & BOOKFAIR VOUCHER FOR BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSTORE – APRIL 26
The Parent Committee of Missoula Early Head Start is sponsoring a Book Fair at Barnes & Noble Bookstore on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The attached flyer and voucher are to be displayed or reproduced for parents, clients and staff. There is a Schedule of fun parent-child interaction events that will be provided on the hour all day in the Children’s Library section of the store including: Make & Take Homemade Toys, SpectrUM Children’s Science Museum Experiments, Book Signing & Recipes from Karin Knight’s bestselling book “1-2-3 COOK FOR ME”, Origami, Children’s Music and Story Time.

Early Head Start will receive a percentage of all purchases throughout the day – including food & beverage purchases -- as long as customers mention our name or provide the voucher number when making the purchases. Books and resources for EHS Library and Center are also available for adoption, and donation receipts will be provided for those who wish to contribute.

Mary-Glynn Cromwell, Manager
Family & Community Partnerships
Missoula Early Head Start
2121 39th Street
Missoula, MT 59803
(PHONE 406-251-9410, ext. 302; FAX 406-251-9403)

EARLY.HEAD.START.2008.BOOK.FAIR.pdf (566k file)
Forum on 04.17.08 @ 02:16 PM MDT [link]

HIGHER EDUCATION INFORMATIONAL SESSION AT U.M. COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY – APRIL 23

Missoula Early Head Start is hosting a HIGHER EDUCATION INFORMATIONAL SESSION presented by the staff of the U.M. College of Technology for members of the community who wish to further their education, but feel overwhelmed by the process. The opportunity is available on Wednesday, April 23, from 5:30-6:30 in the Admissions Office of the UM College of Technology.

Please post the attached flyer and provide the information to students, parents, clients and staff.

Mary-Glynn Cromwell, Manager
Family & Community Partnerships
Missoula Early Head Start
2121 39th Street
Missoula, MT 59803
(PHONE 406-251-9410, ext. 302; FAX 406-251-9403)

FLYER.2008.HigherEducationEvent.pdf (32k file)
Forum on 04.17.08 @ 08:57 AM MDT [link]

FREE OR FAIRLY CHEAP FAMILY RESOURCE NEWSLETTER FOR APRIL THROUGH MID-MAY

Read the Free or Fairly Cheap Family Activities Newsletter from Early Head Start here:
Free.Fairly.Cheap.Family.Activities.April.to.Mid_May.pdf (409k file)

Forum on 04.17.08 @ 08:52 AM MDT [link]

REDUCING TELEVISION SCREEN TIME

Attached is the brochure our intern, Jordan, made about reducing screen time. I also attached recommendations for screen time for children from birth to 5 years.

Have a great day,
Erin Kautz
Missoula Health Department

p.s. Several NIH institutes are sponsoring a new campaign to inform parents about healthier alternatives for kids than watching TV. From Mel Tremper/mtremper@jbsinternational.com, read www.nih.gov/news/health for news on kicking off a new NIH campaign with tips for turning off the t.v. as one step towards healthier behaviors for kids.

BROCHURE: Screen.Time.Brochure.pdf (276k file)

RECOMMENDATIONS: Children.Birth.to.Five.doc (43k file)
Forum on 04.16.08 @ 10:18 AM MDT [link]

NATIONAL CONGRESS OF AMERICAN INDIANS SCHOLARSHIP

Anyone working with Native American Youth Might Be Interested

National Congress of American Indians: Applications for the 2008 NCAI Youth Ambassador Leadership Program are now available.

The YALP is a scholarship program open to males and females aged 17-25. The Ambassadors, one male and one female, serve a two-year term representing and promoting NCAI and the NCAI Youth Commission and aiding the NCAI Youth Commission leadership in its meetings and functions when requested.

Ambassadors are chosen every two years at the NCAI Annual Convention. Anyone may apply who is eligible for NCAI membership according to the NCAI Constitution, has support from their tribal council, and is a full time student at the high school, college, or graduate level.

Each Ambassador will receive a $2,500 scholarship to be paid directly to their academic institution.

To apply to be an NCAI Youth Ambassador, please visit the NCAI Youth webpage or fill out the NCAI Youth Ambassador Leadership Program Application. Applications must be received by August 1, 2008 and must be complete in order to be considered. For any questions, please contact our office at (202) 466-7767.
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:39 PM MDT [link]

STUDENT DROPOUT PREVENTION TASK FORCE MEETS APRIL 22

The Student Dropout Prevention Task Force will meet: (for a summary of the Feb 12th Student Dropout Summit 2008 see www.missoulaforum.org)

TUESDAY@ 4:15 PM April 22 at the Headwaters Conference room 600 Cregg (McCormick Park) in the Missoula Aquatics Center.

We will form workgroups and begin work (in work groups) identifying the next action steps in achieving a community plan to reduce high school dropout rates in Missoula. This task force is a coalition of community/school/ parent/students interested in reducing dropout rates.

*Anyone from the community interested in this issue is invited to join us for this meeting. If you were not able to attend the Student Dropout Summit on February 12, 2008, please check out the website listed above for a summary of the summit and a listing of possible work groups that are forming. Or call Ellie Greenwood at 258-4965 Please RSVP so we can make sure we have enough room for everyone.

The Media Literacy Community Action Team and the Youth Development Network are coalitions of the Missoula Forum for Children and Youth.

Ellie Greenwood
Missoula Forum for Children and Youth
406-258-4965
egreenwood@co.missoula.mt.us
127 W. Spruce
Missoula MT 59802
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:31 PM MDT [link]

CASSADAGA FILM FESTIVAL COMING TO MISSOULA

The Cassadaga Film Festival is coming to Misssoula April 17Th!
This exciting film festival will feature short films by student film makers from Hellgate High School. The festival will take place in the Hellgate Auditorium. (Use doors on Connell). This festival is a fundraiser for the Hellgate Cares Foundation and there is a $2 dollar suggested donation at the door April 17th @ 6PM.

Awards will be given at the end of the festival for Best Edit, Best Soundtrack, Most Original, and Best Picture.

The student-made films will range from 2 minutes to 20 minutes long. The films cover a range of genres including documentaries, music videos, short movies and whatever else you can think of. "The participation among student film makers at Hellgate was great", says film festival creator and organizer Cassie James.

Film Festival Organizer, Cassandra James, born in Missoula living in the surrounding community of Turah, is currently a senior at Hellgate. Cassie decided she wanted to organize the benefit film festival for her senior project with two goals in mind: "I wanted to display the talents of the Hellgate student body and complete the service portion of my senior project with the intention of helping the community".

Please contact Ellie Greenwood for further information. Cassie thinks "The concept of the Festival is that Film is art too. I hope to make this an annual event and integrate more experimental films in the future. Not everything has to be told with direct story lines."

Post graduation plans for Cassandra? She will attend the University of Montana next year with an intended media arts major. "Film has become my expression and obsession over these last six months of my senior project experience. I have learned a lot from this experience."

For more information call: 258-5461.
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:26 PM MDT [link]

MISSOULA PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS

"Out at the Library" events
Missoula Public Library is hosting “Out at the Library,” a LGBT historical exhibit from April 17-May 31. The library is offering a five week Queer Literary Festival to accompany the exhibit, including these great events:

Panel Discussion: How the Gays Saved Civilization, Thursday May 1, 7 p.m., Missoula Public Library
Western civ will never seem the same after this lively discussion in the tradition of Thomas Cahill’s fresh and popular histories. From Latin American literature to Medieval sodomy — we’re covering the waterfront!

Multi-media Program: The Three Faces of Tennessee, Created and performed by the Montana Rep Theater, Friday May 2, 7-8:30 p.m., Missoula Public Library
Combining Tennessee Williams’ backstage notebooks, play readings, and film clips, Rep artists will tease out the sometimes bold, sometimes transient sexuality that permeates our theater canon.

Will Roscoe Lecture & Slide Show - The Changing Ones: The Third Gender Tradition in Native North America, Saturday May 3, 7-9 p.m., Missoula Public Library
Using rare historical images, Will Roscoe studies examples of Native American Two Spirit and third gender roles, and their social, artistic and religious significance. A program highlight is the story of Osh-tisch (Finds Them and Kills Them), a Crow artisan and medicine person who gained fame fighting in the Battle on the Rosebud in 1876.

Reading & Discussion: Will Roscoe, Sunday May 4, 1-2:30 p.m., Fact & Fiction 220 N Higgins Missoula
Roscoe will read from his new club-land mystery novel and discuss his last nonfiction work, “Jesus and the Shamanic Tradition of Same-Sex Love.” He will also reminisce about growing up in Missoula, the birth of gay activism at UM in the 1970s, and gay pioneer and radical faerie godmother Harry Hay.

Game On! at the library
Game On! at Missoula Public Library. Teens ages 13-18 can play on the big screen on Friday, May 2, from 3:30-6 p.m. Free food, free games, free fun. What, you have something better to do on a Friday afternoon? Get plugged in at the library when Game On! returns every first Friday of the month. For more information, visit www.missoulapubliclibrary.org or stop by the YA desk. If anyone attending the program needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665).

Swap Your Comics
Are you a comic book fan ready for something different for the summer? Come on over to Missoula Public Library on Thursday, May 1, 3-5 p.m. and trade your old comics with other readers like you. Trades will be done on a one-for-one basis – you bring one, you take one. A selection of free comics will be provided by Muse Comics.

Missoula Public Library’s Comic Book Swap is just the start for comic lovers. Saturday, May 3, is Free Comic Book Day, a national celebration when comic shops give out samples to anyone stopping by. In Missoula, Muse Comics will be giving out free comics throughout the day.

Plus mark your calendars now for the library’s comic book workshop with a publisher from Washington on July 25. Children ages 10-12 can learn the basics of comic drawing from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., then teens ages 13-18 can hone their skills 2 to 5 p.m.

Socrates Café to discuss philosophy at library
Join Missoula Public Library’s own “philosopher extraordinaire” Mitch Grady on Thursday, April 24, at 7 p.m. for an informal philosophical discussion. Share your philosophy for life. No registration is required.

For more information on the latest the library has to offer in programs and resources, visit www.missoulapubliclibrary.org or call 721-2665. If anyone attending the program needs special assistance, please provide advance notice by calling 721-BOOK (2665).
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:21 PM MDT [link]

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Helping Children to Cope with Divorce
Wednesday 04/30/2008 7:00PM-9:00PM
Presented by Katie Deuel
Location: Pablo Headstart
Learn what helps (or hurts) children after divorce and how to communicate with the co-parent.
Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS PIZZA FOR PARENTS: Emotional Intelligence
Wednesday 05/07/2008 11:00-12:15PM
Location: Russell Elementary
Learn how to help your child increase awareness of their own feelings, the ability to empathize with other people and improve their listening skills. We'd all like to raise kids who are well-adjusted, happy, and successful, and parenting with empathy can aid our efforts. We’ll talk about recognizing our own feelings and the feelings of others, empathetic responses and self-discipline in parenting. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Relatives as Parents
Wednesday 05/07/2008
Presented by Cassidy Aafedt
Location: YMCA
7:00-9:00 PM
Relatives often step in when children need to be raised in safer, healthier, environments. The unexpected physical, emotional, financial and legal demands can be daunting. This program helps kinship families find answers to difficult questions, gain access to resources and receive support through a community of families in similar situations. Class is Free! and Childcare is provided. Call 721-7690 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Positive Discipline for Early Childhood
Wednesday 05/07/2008
Presented by Karin Fodness
Location: Pablo Headstart
7:00-9:00PM

Kids need boundaries to help them feel secure and know they are being cared for and loved. Learn how to lovingly set limits before things get out of hand and you find your buttons pushed. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Tune Up for Couples
Wednesday 05/07/2008
Presented by Kevin Dohr
Location: Families First
6:00-8:00PM

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Getting Ready for Middle School
Thursday 05/08/2008
Presented by Cheryl Minnick
Location: Paxson Elementary
6:30-8:00PM

Middle school can be a tough time for pre-teens. They face many new issues beyond attending a new school, including: puberty, tougher academics, more personal responsibilities, switching classes, boy-girl dances, and multiple teachers. Pre-teens may try the boundaries, test the waters and sometimes test your patience. This fun, light-hearted class provides tips and practical advice for preparing pre-teens for middle school. Call MCPS Adult Ed to pre-register: 549-8765.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS PIZZA FOR PARENTS: Emotional Intelligence
Friday 05/09/2008 11:00-12:15PM
Location: Russell Elementary
Learn how to help your child increase awareness of their own feelings, the ability to empathize with other people and improve their listening skills. We'd all like to raise kids who are well-adjusted, happy, and successful, and parenting with empathy can aid our efforts. We’ll talk about recognizing our own feelings and the feelings of others, empathetic responses and self-discipline in parenting. Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:15 PM MDT [link]

WESTERN MONTANA VOLUNTEER CENTER COORDINATOR TRAINING

Western Montana Volunteer Center Volunteer Coordinator Training - May 7. Reserve you place now – this exciting class fills up very fast! Limited attendance ensures that the dedicated trainers have lots of time with each person.

Read here WMVC.Vol.Coor.training.flyer.2008.pdf (166k file)

Colleen A. Baldwin, Volunteer Services Program Manager
Missoula Aging Services
337 Stephens
Missoula, MT 59801
406-728-7682 fax 406-728-7687 /cabaldwin@missoulaagingservices.org
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:11 PM MDT [link]

EAT SMART LXXVII: GOOD FOR YOUR BODY AND THE EARTH

Read the newsletter here GOOD.FOR.YOU.AND.THE.EARTH.pdf (273k file)

Food that’s Best for Your Body and the Earth
Earth Day is April 22, 2008

Isn’t it interesting that many of the food choices that are good for our bodies are also good for the environment? In recognition of Earth Day, Eat Smart has compiled tips on how to buy food that’s best for your body and the earth.

• Hug the perimeter. Whole foods including meat, dairy and produce are less processed than many of the snack foods found in the center aisles of the store. Less manufacturing = less chemicals & less packaging!

• Buy organic. Organic foods are grown without toxic chemicals – which enter not only our bodies – but also the air, soil and water! For more on organic regulations go to www.usda.gov.

• Eat seasonally and locally when possible. If every American ate just one meal a week of locally and/or organically raised ingredients, oil consumption would be reduced an estimated 1.1 million barrels. Go to www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org for a list of produce in season.

• Bring your own bag. Help stem the flood of 100 billion plastic shopping bags Americans toss out every year.

Get Involved! For a listing of Earth Week celebrations planned for the Missoula area, visit these websites:

• www.umt.edu/greeningUM/earth
• www.mudproject.org/earthday2008htm
• Not in Missoula? Check with local agencies for events in your area.

Information for this e-newsletter adapted from the following sources. Visit these websites for even more Earth Day tips:

• Eating Green Calculator – find out how small changes can make a big difference www.cspinet.org/eatinggreen
• 8 Green Tips for Shopping Smarter www.self.com/livingwell
• Tips for Green Shopping www.wholefoodsmarket.com/pressroom

Kristin Rohfleisch, M.S.
Eat Smart Program Coordinator
Sr Community Health Specialist
Missoula City County Health Dept
301 W. Alder ~ Missoula, MT 59802
(406) 258-3827
rohfleischk@ho.missoula.mt.us
http://www.co.missoula.mt.us/healthservices/EatSmart/
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 03:03 PM MDT [link]

EARTH WEEK RECYCLING PROJECT AT JOSEPH RESIDENCE

Hello fello Earth Conscientious People!

I just wanted to let everyone know about the Earth Week Recycling Project
at the Joseph Residence. Our Project will actually introduce Earth Week as
it will run the week prior to actual Earth Week. The project will begin
next Monday, April 14th and run through Monday, April 21st.

Missoula Valley Recycling has generously donated pick-up and recycling,
and Pacific Steel has generously donated the collection bins, therefore,
we will only be recycling the following 3 types of recyclables:

* aluminum cans
* newspaper
* phone books

We have chosen these three items because cans and newspaper are among the
top discarded items here at the Joe. Taking phone books is an act of
goodwill. They aren't normally worth taking, but they are technically
recyclable and recycling them during this project keeps them from going to
the landfill.

In addition to our recycling project, we will be holding an open house
from 1p-3p Saturday the 19th to field any questions people might have
about the Joseph Residence, and about recycling in Missoula (normally
there are 12 different categories of recyclables not just 2 or 3).

I hope everybody will bring their cans, newspapers, and phone books by
that week, and pass the info on to everyone that you know. We are really
hoping for a great turn-out for this event ...and we help the Earth!!

~gina

PS If anyone has any questions please feel free to email me or call me at
the Joe. Also, if anyone would like to volunteer to hang out at the open
house for those 2 hours Saturday the 19th (1p-3p) please let me know!

Gina Sandon -AmeriCorps *VISTA
Joseph Residence
2405 McIntosh Loop
Missoula, Mt 59804
w. 406.549.6158
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 02:52 PM MDT [link]

TEEN DATING VIOLENCE: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Join Jewish Women International in a 60-minute live telephone seminar presented by Elizabeth Miller, MD, PhD, assistant professor in pediatrics, UC Davis School of Medicine; Juley Fulcher, Esq., Director of Programs, Break the Cycle, Washington, DC; Barri Rosenbluth, LCSW, School-based services director, SafePlace in Austin, Texas.
The live conference will take place Thursday, April 17, 2008 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time

REGISTER NOW

Pre-registration is necessary to participate in the call.
What you will learn:

• Overview of the problem: The phenomenon of adolescent dating violence (ages 12 to 24) in a developmental framework
• Current research
• Legal requirements: Balancing safety, confidentiality and mandated reporting
• Barriers to getting services (legal, parental involvement, knowledge of services)
• Intervention/prevention strategies
• Taking a comprehensive approach in schools
• Engaging community partners
• Where do we go from here? Need to develop coordinated responses in communities
• Roles for different professionals: schools, medical and mental health, attorneys
• Q and A's

Who should participate?
This comprehensive and innovative learning experience is for: attorneys • social workers • therapists • DV service providers and advocates • children’s advocates • child protection workers • child abuse service providers • scholars who work on intimate partner violence, child abuse, child custody, or family law policy • physicians • nurses • physician assistants • nursing and medical students • practicing healthcare providers • school personnel • family court evaluators.

Co-sponsored by The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world with 152,000 members and 56 chapters in the United States and abroad. One CEU contact hour is available for social workers for $10; instructions will be given on the call.

Register Now: Each participant is required to register. However, in order to limit the number of phone lines, we encourage you to listen with colleagues on the same phone. Please ask each listener to register and designate one person in your group to sign up for a phone line. The call-in number will be provided when registration is complete.

Phone lines are limited – please register early. Please note that while Jewish Women International pays for the bridge fee for the call, each participant is responsible for their individual long distance charges.
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 12:36 PM MDT [link]

MEDIATION TRAINING MAY 16-20

The Community Dispute Resolution Center of Missoula County and the UM Intercultural Youth and Family Development Program are sponsoring a mediation training May 16-20, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on campus. May 16, 17, and 18 will be a Fundamentals of Mediation (basic) training and May 19 and 20 will be a Divorce and Parenting training (advanced) that allows participants to do parenting plans with divorcing parents. The training is provided by Art and Kitty Lusse of Montana Mediators. The cost for both trainings is $400 or $250 for the Fundamentals only.

These courses qualify for OPI credit, Licensed and Professional Social Workers and Counselors continuing education and State Bar of Montana CLE credits.

The CDRC is hopeful that many of the trainees will want to volunteer four hours per month, doing mediations for Justice Court, the city of Missoula, Parenting Plans, plus any other mediations the citizens of Missoula County may need. For those wishing to do so, scholarships may be available for the training.

You can contact Carol Marino, CDRC Board Member, to receive a registration brochure or ask questions. cdmarino55@yahoo.com
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 12:30 PM MDT [link]

MONTANA NATURAL HISTORY CENTER NEWS

Saturday Discovery Day
Beyond Birding: Understanding Bird Language
Saturday, April 19th, 9am – 4 pm
$20 MNHC members, $25 Non-members
How do the fox, coyote, and bobcat so often move through the landscape unseen? How can the old buck detect people from a far distance and sneak away before they even get close? The answer can be found in understanding the language of birds, a system of communication of bird behavior, body language and calls.

Join Elliott Parsons, UM PhD Student in Wildlife Biology, as he goes beyond basic bird identification by discussing the 5 types of calls made by birds, different alarm calls and how these calls spread as well as how they affect wildlife. We will discuss how to become “invisible” to the birds as you walk through the woods so you can have wildlife experiences you never thought possible, such as walking unseen by a sleeping coyote. These skills will open up your eyes to new possibilities for observing the natural world and for enriching your experiences outside.

Elliott Parsons has studied tracking with Jon Young’s Wilderness Awareness School in Washington and Tom Brown Jr.’s Tracker School in New Jersey. He has led tracking, bird language and survival skill workshops for UC Santa Cruz. Currently Elliott is a PhD student in the wildlife biology program at the University of Montana and leads outings with the Missoula Wildlife Tracking Club.
Space is limited. Registration required. Call 327-0405 for more information.
Class available for 6 OPI credits.

Jessie Sherburne
Community Programs Coordinator
Montana Natural History Center
120 Hickory St.
Missoula, MT 59801
(406)-327-0405
www.montananaturalist.org
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 12:29 PM MDT [link]

THE TICKS ARE OUT AGAIN

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 11, 2008
Contact: Shelly Meyer, RN, Infectious Disease Specialist
Phone: 258-3896
Email: meyers@ho.missoula.mt.us

Missoula County residents hungry for nice spring weather are likely to find sunny days this weekend. Remember that ticks like these conditions as well and are out.

Tickborne Illness - Prevention and Control (Source: Montana Dept. of Public Health & Human Services)
Limiting exposure to ticks is the most effective way to reduce the likelihood of Colorado tick fever, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, relapsing fever and tick paralysis. In persons exposed to tick-infested habitats, prompt careful inspection and removal of crawling or attached ticks is an important method of preventing disease. It may take extended attachment time before organisms are transmitted from the tick to the host.

Personal Protection Against Ticks
It is unreasonable to assume that a person can completely eliminate activities that may result in tick exposure. Therefore, prevention measures should emphasize personal protection when exposed to natural areas where ticks are present:
• Wear light-colored clothing which allows you to see ticks that are crawling on your clothing.
• Tuck your pants legs into your socks so that ticks cannot crawl up the inside of your pants legs.
• Apply repellents to discourage tick attachment. Repellents containing permethrin can be sprayed on boots and clothing, and will last for several days. Repellents containing DEET (n, n-diethyl-m-toluamide) can be applied to the skin, but will last only a few hours before reapplication is necessary. Use DEET with caution on children. Application of large amounts of DEET on children has been associated with adverse reactions.
• Conduct a body check upon return from potentially tick-infested areas by searching your entire body for ticks. Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of your body. Remove any tick you find on your body.
• Parents should check their children for ticks, especially in the hair, when returning from potentially tick-infested areas. Ticks may also be carried into the household on clothing and pets and only attached later so both should be examined carefully to exclude the ticks.

To Remove Attached Ticks:
Removal of an embedded tick using fine-tipped tweezers

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers or notched tick extractor, and protect your fingers with a tissue, paper towel, or latex gloves (see figure). Persons should avoid removing ticks with bare hands.

2. Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk the tick; this may cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. (If this happens, remove mouthparts with tweezers. Consult your health care provider if illness occurs.)

3. After removing the tick, thoroughly disinfect the bite site and wash your hands with soap and water.

4. Do not squeeze, crush, or puncture the body of the tick because its fluids may contain infectious organisms. Skin accidentally exposed to tick fluids can be disinfected with iodine scrub, rubbing alcohol, or water containing detergents.

5. Save the tick for identification in case you become ill. This may help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis. Place the tick in a sealable plastic bag and put it in your freezer. Write the date of the bite on a piece of paper with a pencil and place it in the bag.

Folklore Remedies Don't Work!
Folklore remedies, such as the use of petroleum jelly or hot matches, do little to encourage a tick to detach from skin. In fact, they may make matters worse by irritating the tick and stimulating it to release additional saliva or regurgitate gut contents, increasing the chances of transmitting the disease causing microorganism. These methods of tick removal should be avoided.
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 12:26 PM MDT [link]

MOUNTAIN LINE BUS DRIVERS COMPETE

Mountain Line bus drivers will compete in 18th annual local bus driver’s Roadeo Sunday, April 27, 2008 at the Big Sky High School parking lot. Starting time is approximately 9:15 a.m. This event is free and fun for kids to watch!

The Roadeo tests driving skills in 35-foot buses. The drivers compete on a course designed to test skills in backing up, turning sharp corners, clearing narrow spaces, stopping close to fixed objects, and pulling in and out of a restricted area.

The course simulates a number of elements that professional drivers encounter on a daily basis. It is designed to emphasize safety skills as well.

The bus Roadeo gives spectators an appreciation of how difficult it is to maneuver a large bus around in limited areas.

The winner of the local Roadeo will go on to the State Roadeo in Billings in June. The State winner then competes at the National level in 2009.

Stephanie Millar
Transit Planner and Development Coordinator
Mountain Line
543-8386 xt. 101
Forum on 04.15.08 @ 12:06 PM MDT [link]

TIPS, TOOLS, TRAINING AND GRANTS FOR PARENTS AND PROFESSIONALS

Below is the March (oops, a bit late!) edition of "Tips, Tools, Training, and Grants for Parents and Professionals." Enjoy!

Read or download 3.08.Parent.Tips.and.Tools.doc (76k file)

Susan Barmeyer
Healthy Start Council
P.O. Box 3805
Missoula, MT 59806
406-728-5437/healthystart@parentingplace.net
Forum on 04.10.08 @ 11:50 AM MDT [link]

THE STATE OF THE YOUNG CHILD

YOU ARE INVITED TO The State of the Young Child
Sponsored by the Healthy Start Council of the Missoula Forum for Children & Youth

DATE: Wednesday, April 16th, 2008
TIME: Luncheon 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
PLACE: Saint Patrick Hospital Conference Center Many thanks to Saint Patrick’s for providing lunch and space!
WHAT: A symposium about Missoula’s young children.

LUNCHEON SPEAKERS:
Montana Lieutenant Governor John Bohlinger
Dr. Anne Manktelow, Community Medical Center

and NEW this year, “WHAT’S HAPPENING” HIGHLIGHTS:
Fulltime Kindergarten
United Way’s Missoula Kids Matter
Kids Mill Levy for Substance Abuse Prevention
School Readiness Team

RSVP to Susan Barmeyer at the Healthy Start Council, 728-5437 or healthystart@parentingplace.net. A $3 registration fee holds your place; please make checks payable to “Healthy Start” and send to P.O. Box 3805, Missoula, 59806. Display tables and limited child care are available.

Susan Barmeyer
Healthy Start Council
P.O. Box 3805
Missoula, MT 59806
406-728-5437
healthystart@parentingplace.net

The Healthy Start Council is a prevention coalition under the umbrella of the Missoula Forum for Children and Youth. Agencies, organizations, and individuals involved in Healthy Start work collaboratively to improve the lives of young children in Missoula County. Our mission is to prevent problem behaviors by helping Missoula children grow up healthy and resilient.
Forum on 04.10.08 @ 11:38 AM MDT [link]

WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES - PRE-REGISTER TODAY

Just a reminder to register for the upcoming Walk a Mile in Her Shoes: the Men’s March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault and Gender Violence!

WHO: You! Your co-workers, friends, family, brothers, husbands, boyfriends…and bring someone to cheer you on!

WHAT: Courageous men and women across the country are joining Walk a Mile in Her Shoes: The Men’s March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault and Gender Violence.

In Missoula, men will literally walk one mile in women’s shoes to help raise awareness about sexual violence. This is a fun opportunity for men to educate and rally the community to take action and prevent sexual violence. It is also a fundraiser for the Student Assault Resource Center (SARC); SARC is committed to ending interpersonal violence, sexual assault and rape through advocacy, education and awareness. Come enjoy some free music, free food, and remember to bring your camera and a friend!!

WHEN: Wednesday, April 23rd – noon to 1pm
WHERE: UM Oval

CONTACT: www.umt.edu/curry/SARC or call 243-6429 with questions
*Day-of registration available from 10am at the UM Grizzly statue on the UM Oval.

P.S. The UM Football team will be there – so should you!
walk_brochure.pdf (146k file)

Erin Scott
SARC Outreach Coordinator
634 Eddy Ave.
Missoula, MT 59812
(406) 243-6429/erin.scott@mso.umt.edu
Forum on 04.10.08 @ 11:32 AM MDT [link]

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Raising Someone Else’s Children
: Effective Work with Relative Caregivers
Wednesday 04/09/2008 9:00AM-4:00PM
Presented by Sandy Bailey, Cindy Miller, Amy S. Rubin and Loretta Rotellini
Location: University Center, Rooms 326/327 University of Montana
This conference will help service providers develop a greater understanding of the unique challenges of relative caregivers and kinship families. Service providers will learn about strategies and networks of support available for relative caregivers in Montana. Relative or kinship caregivers are also encouraged to attend.
Please call 721-7690 for more information and to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Whining, Tantrums and Angry Fits
Tuesday 4/22/2008 6:30-8:00PM
Presented by Karin Fodness
Location: Rattlesnake Elementary
Parenting can be wonderful and frustrating at the same time. Discover ways of handling your child's challenging behaviors without losing your mind. Call MCPS Adult Ed to pre-register: 549-8765.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Getting Your Child to Sleep
Wednesday 04/23/2008 7:00PM-9:00PM
Presented by Sara Polanchek
Location: Pablo Headstart
Bedtime can be a tiresome chore in some households. This class will offer strategies and approaches to helping your kids (and you) get the sleep you need. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.

FAMILIES FIRST PRESENTS Helping Children to Cope with Divorce
Wednesday 04/30/2008 7:00PM-9:00PM
Presented by Katie Deuel
Location: Pablo Headstart
Learn what helps (or hurts) children after divorce and how to communicate with the co-parent.
Class is free and childcare is available. Please call 676-4509 to pre-register.
Forum on 04.10.08 @ 11:07 AM MDT [link]

EAT SMART LXXVI: MYPYRAMID MENU PLANNER

Read the Eat Smart newsletter here MYPYRAMID.MENU.PLANNER.pdf (337k file)

Useful Online Nutrition Guidance Tool
This new online nutrition guidance tool had over a million visitors during the first week after it was launched! USA Today wrote “If you're looking for guidance on how to improve your diet, the Department of Agriculture has a new menu-planning tool that could become your new best friend,” (3-26-08).

The Menu Planner is useful for anyone interested in healthful and nutritious diets, high school and middle school classes, dietitians, health professionals, and nutrition educators for use in counseling and educational programming.

To try out MyPyramid Menu Planner, go to www.MyPyramid.gov and click on the ‘MyPyramid Menu Planner’ link.

After entering your age, sex, height, weight and physical activity level, you can begin entering food items and amounts you might consume each day. The screen displays visual feedback and various reports can be seen and printed which include a daily, weekly or family menu, a breakdown by food item, and goal setting worksheets.

For more comments on the MyPyramid Menu Planner tool: www.mypyramid.gov/menuplanner/; or to read the full USA Today article about MyPyramid Menu Planner tool: www.usatoday.com/news/health/.

Kristin Rohfleisch, M.S.
Eat Smart Program Coordinator
Sr Community Health Specialist
Missoula City County Health Dept
301 W. Alder ~ Missoula, MT 59802
(406) 258-3827/rohfleischk@ho.missoula.mt.us
Forum on 04.10.08 @ 10:57 AM MDT [link]


	Home \| Youth Guide \| Coalitions \| Resources \| Calendar \| Bulletin Board
"Helping Missoula raise healthy and resilient children and youth"

HOW TO POST TO THE MISSOULA FORUM BULLETIN BOARD

FREE (OR FAIRLY CHEAP) FAMILY ACTIVITIES NEWSLETTER

WORD SEEKS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

BREAST AND CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING DAY FOR AMERICAN INDIAN WOMEN

WORKSHOPS

MOUNTAIN HOME SPRING OPEN HOUSE

EAT SMART LXXX: FOOD BANKS FEEL PINCH OF RISING FOOD COSTS

NEWS IDEAS WANTED FOR MAY-JUNE ISSUE OF FORUM'S "ON THE SAME PAGE"

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

YWCA PILOTS SUPPORT GROUP FOR NATIVE SURVIVORS; FACILITATORS NEEDED

"OUT AT THE LIBRARY" EVENTS AT MISSOULA PUBLIC LIBRARY

NCBI OFFERS DIVERSITY FOCUSED CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING

School nutrition policy can prevent obesity

‘Queer Youth Speak’

Cheap Date Night at the library

Afternoon Matinee at the library

Gnome Entry Celebration at Library

“GUTS! Gears up for Girls Outdoors Adventures”

Real Meals - for Women

AWARD WINNING FILMMAKER HARDY JONES TO RECEIVE IWFF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

‘My Vietnam’ book reading & signing at Frenchtown library

Tumbleweed Vacancy

Can You Hear Me Now? A conversation cafe where parents and youth can eat, laugh, talk, and be heard

May is Teen Pregnancy Month

New Web Hosting for Missoula Fourm web site

ALASTAIR FOTHERGILL TO PRESENT AT IWFF

PET OWNERS CAN HELP KEEP PARKS SAFE, CLEAN

BILINGUAL STORY TIMES "EN TU BIBLIOTECA"

RESPECT CLUB RELEASES BOOK "INDIFFERENCE"

MISSOULA COUNTY DISASTER DRILL SATURDAY MAY 10

MOUNTAIN HOME HAS OPENINGS

UNPLUG AND PLAY! SCREEN FREE WEEK 2008

TRAINING ON BIPOLAR DISORDER

LEARNING ON THE GO: LITERACY TIPS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

EAT SMART LXXVIII: LOCAL FOOD IS GOOD FOOD

YOUTH VOLUNTEERING

MISSOULA PARKS AND RECREATION EARTH DAY EVENT APRIL 26

MPHA ANNUAL MEETING AND CONFERENCE SEPTEMBER 9-11, 2008, BOZEMAN

MONTANA NATURAL HISTORY CENTER HOSTS BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION ART SHOW

MONTANA NATURAL HISTORY CENTER EVENTS

MEA-MFT EDUCATORS CONFERENCE SEEKING PRESENTERS

EARLY HEAD START BOOKFAIR

HIGHER EDUCATION INFORMATIONAL SESSION AT U.M. COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY – APRIL 23

FREE OR FAIRLY CHEAP FAMILY RESOURCE NEWSLETTER FOR APRIL THROUGH MID-MAY

REDUCING TELEVISION SCREEN TIME

NATIONAL CONGRESS OF AMERICAN INDIANS SCHOLARSHIP

STUDENT DROPOUT PREVENTION TASK FORCE MEETS APRIL 22

CASSADAGA FILM FESTIVAL COMING TO MISSOULA

MISSOULA PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

WESTERN MONTANA VOLUNTEER CENTER COORDINATOR TRAINING

EAT SMART LXXVII: GOOD FOR YOUR BODY AND THE EARTH

EARTH WEEK RECYCLING PROJECT AT JOSEPH RESIDENCE

TEEN DATING VIOLENCE: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

MEDIATION TRAINING MAY 16-20

MONTANA NATURAL HISTORY CENTER NEWS

THE TICKS ARE OUT AGAIN

MOUNTAIN LINE BUS DRIVERS COMPETE

TIPS, TOOLS, TRAINING AND GRANTS FOR PARENTS AND PROFESSIONALS

THE STATE OF THE YOUNG CHILD

WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES - PRE-REGISTER TODAY

FAMILIES FIRST PARENTING PROGRAMS

EAT SMART LXXVI: MYPYRAMID MENU PLANNER

METH IN MONTANA - A FOLLOW UP REPORT ON TRENDS AND PROGRESS

JOB POSTING FOR TRAPPER CREEK JOB CORPS

GREAT SUMMER JOB FOR HIGH SCHOOL/COLLEGE STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND MORE