Hunters zoom in on 'big meeting'

This weekend presents a big opportunity for Northwest Montana hunters to weigh in on regulations that will govern the 2008 and 2009 hunting seasons: an open house and public hearing at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell.

It's generally referred to as the "big meeting" because it usually generates a strong turnout of hunters who care about management of Montana wildlife.

This Saturday's meeting should be no different, even though the agenda is not loaded with a lot of hot-button issues. It does, however, include proposed regulations to manage wolves as a big-game species for the first time in the state's history. That topic should generate some interesting input.

For those who don't have a lot to say, the meeting presents a good opportunity to ask questions and get direct answers.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks staff will be on hand for the open house from 9 to 10 a.m., with the hearing directly following.

One of the many amenities of living in Flathead County is being able to take advantage of Flathead Valley Community College programs.

As a recent story in the Inter Lake pointed out, that's not just something younger people can benefit from either. The college's Senior Institute helps people who are 62 and older stay active and energized by taking a variety of classes for credit and fun.

In addition to the coursework, each Friday session begins with a free lunch and a guest speaker.

With all this to offer, the program is quite popular, of course. Registration opens at 8 a.m. on Jan. 22 and classes fill up quickly. For more information, call 756-3851.

A piano fanfare is in order for a young piano prodigy.

Damaris Gemmer has written more than 70 songs in the past six years and last year recorded her first CD, which features 15 original songs.

She also publishes her own bimonthly magazine, sings in the Flathead Valley Homeschool Choir, performs in stage productions and plays piano regularly at Heritage Place.

And she's all of 13 years old.

This is an impressive resume for a teenager. We would wager we'll be hearing more about this musical wunderkind in the years to come.