FCT1218

Fallon County

T IMES BAKER, MONTANA

December 18, 2020

Pastor Scott Kiehn

Merry Christmas!

I pray that you may find peace and hope this Christmas season especially in the midst of the uncertainty of COVID-19. I hate to even mention it and I don’t want to dwell on it but the reality is that COVID-19 is a part of our lives right now. COVID-19 is a part of our Christmas this year. For some there is fear, for many of us it is the uncertainty that troubles us most, for others it is a nuisance and inconvenience. For many of us Christmas will look a bit different this year. Maybe we won’t gather with as many family members as usual, maybe we won’t attend worship on Christmas Eve, whatever it is for you it will probably be different this year.

Some things will be the same and some things will be different and maybe some of the old traditions will be seen in a new light. You might even start a new tradition this year. Maybe the same old story that you hear each year will have a new meaning. I experienced this a few years ago.

My favorite Christmas program to watch each year is “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. When it

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Christmas has always been exceptionally magical to me.

The colorful lights glistening off of freshly fallen snow, the smell of cookies twirling through the evening air around the ethereal falsettos of “Silent Night”, cups of hot cocoa to accompany old Claymation movies under favorite blankets, and of course trying to wait up to catch a glimpse of Old Saint Nick spreading Christmas spirit in the way that he does best.

As an adult I like to reflect on the holidays I experienced as a child. I like to keep tradition alive so I can grasp onto some of the magic I once found when I got lost in the way a singular light reflected off of a singular bulb, when I would set up my favorite Christmas decorations while listening to my dad sing along with the most impressive of falsettos, and being sure to put carrots alongside the cookies with my mom to ensure that Santa’s reindeer could also have a snack. I like to catch just a little bit of the magic that Kris Kringle spreads so effortlessly.

This Christmas is unlike any that I’ve experienced.

This Christmas some of us are grieving loved ones or dealing with the emotions that come from caring for patients who are terribly ill.

Others are coping with the loss of a job or a business and many of us miss being able to share the holidays with our loved ones. A lot of us have been less than our best selves this year while others have seen neighbors that we care

TODAY’S FORECAST

first came out in 1965, I was four years old I am not sure if I watched it that year but I know that I watched it the next few years. I used to check the television schedule to see which of the three television stations would carry it on our black and white television set so I could make sure that I could watch it. Imagine my amazement (sometime in the 70’s) when I first saw it in color. The first time that the familiar story became new. As I grew older it was hit or miss if I would watch this show around Christmas. Later I would make a point of watching it with my children. A number of years ago my wife bought me my own copy of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” so now it is a Christmas tradition for me to watch this show every year.

Every time that I watch this show, I get emotional when Linus gets up to recite the Christmas story from Luke - the same Christmas story that we hear each year from Luke chapter 2. And then Linus would end with “That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown”. A few years ago, I was made aware of a new twist with my beloved Charlie Brown Christmas.

You know how Linus always carried his blanket with him? He would never put it down or let it go – even when Lucy tried to take it away from him.

It was his security blanket it gave him comfort.

Well, when he was at center stage reciting Luke 2 at the moment when he said “Fear not” he drops

for and admire being less than their best selves.

However, this Christmas I have a chance to be more like Santa. I have the chance to spread Christmas magic.

In fact, we all do. You see, the magical thing about Santa is his tenacity to love and to give. Selflessness flies his sleigh around the world, compassion creates the toys, kindness puts on the hat, and graciousness stuffs the stockings. As an adult, I no longer have to reflect on the holidays I experienced as a child to grasp onto some of the magic, because I now know that I can make my own.

Without a doubt, Santa will be out and about on Christmas Eve sharing his joy with any and all, but during a year when we all need a little extra comfort and joy, we ought to spend some time spreading it amongst one another. This Christmas we all have the opportunity to show up for each other at a time when we may need it the most.

It doesn’t matter whether you embrace your newly found sleigh bells by doing your best to keep your community safe, buying groceries for your quarantined neighbor, offering an ear to your grieving friend, or sharing a smile in the grocery store so genuine that it overflows out of your mask into the creases of your eyes. It will help bring joy to the world.

No, this Christmas won’t be the same as previous ones, but this Christmas can be the best one yet because when love is palpable a magic is made.

Marmarth local, Jimmy Carroll, recently published his first book The Riverside Stories: Ring Bell for Service. It is the first book in a series of six.

53 year old Jimmy first developed an interest in writing during his school

lie Brown Christmas” but there is also something old that sticks with us from this movie. The whole point of the show - the reason that Charlie Brown is so gloomy is the commercialism of Christmas. Even fifty years ago this was a problem - and it seems that not much has changed today - except that maybe the commercialism has gotten worse and the meaning of Christmas is shifting away from Christ. Maybe that is why we gather together on Christmas Eve - to get a break from the commercialism for an hour or so and have an opportunity to hear the story that gives us the real meaning of Christmas. The story that reminds us that no matter what we are going through God is with us. The story that tells us to “fear not” because through this child we receive forgiveness of sins, life and salvation. The story that makes us new every time we hear it. This is the gift that we all receive as we hear this story over and over again.

The story of the gift of the Christ Child – where we receive freedom from sin and certainty of eternal life.

years when they would go around class and create a story together, each adding a sentence to the story. “I just tried to make them as funny as I could ,” he laughed.

Jimmy has written short stories and made comics in the past, however this is his first book. Even though he’s dabbled in different writing styles there is one common theme throughout his writing: comedy. “I like making people laugh. I like making myself laugh,” he chuckled.

Jimmy’s life inspired him to write The Riverside Stories, forming the characters after people in his own life and plot twists after some of his own experiences. “The bad guys don’t always lose and the good guys don’t always win,” he noted.

Using elements of his own life, Jimmy made the book set in a small town, with most of the characters members of a church family. “I’m a Christian, so if I can help bring even one person to God, it’s worth it,” he explained.

While it’s bound to give you a good chuckle with its comedy, there are also other elements that may very well keep you on the edge of your seat. “I like to take my characters to a cliff, push them over the edge, and see what happens.

Some hit the bottom, some grab a branch on the way down, and some are helped by others,” Jimmy explained. “Not everyone gets pushed off though.”

Jimmy’s writing style is unique and authentic. He doesn’t conform to traditional grammatical rules. The relaxed feel makes it read less like a book and more like you’re hearing an old friend tell you a story. “I just wanted to write it the way I’d say it,” shrugged Jimmy.

Jimmy works for the City of Bowman and uses writing as a way to relax after work and in his free time. “Its kind of like playing the guitar, its something I have to do…it’s a craving,” he explained.

Jimmy’s wife, Judy, also helps him throughout the process. “She saves a lot of the characters before I do too much damage to them,” he laughed. When he and his wife aren’t busy writing or playing music, they can be found playing with their three dogs, Wile E., Boomer and Bonnie.

The Riverside Stories is a relaxing and entertaining read appropriate for high school aged folks and older. Jimmy’s self published book can be found on Amazon.

“I hope everyone that reads it enjoys it,” he nodded.

Santa mailbox moved from Be A Winner! park to county building Shop In Baker!

Staff Report

Santa mailbox may have been moved from City Park to the county building, but there is still time to send off letters to Santa.

High: 32 Low: 19

Files of the Times...............................3

Coloring Contest...............................10

Spartan Scroll.....................................4

Christmas Edition.......................11-20

Sunny

Cougar Track.......................................5

Stop in for Last Minute

Gifts

his blanket and doesn’t pick it up again until after he has finished telling us about the Savior who is Christ the Lord. I would guess that Charles Schultz was very intentional when he first wrote this scene.

When Linus quotes the word of God from an angel “Fear Not” he doesn’t need his security blanket.

His security is in the message that he is sharing about the coming savior.

I have been watching this show for over 50 years and I had never noticed this before until it was pointed out to me. Now when I watch it there is more anticipation. And in the future when I watch the show there will be added meaning at this moment.

In spite of all that we are experiencing with regards to COVID-19. In spite of all that we hear in the news of violence and killings around the world.

In spite of all that is going on around us that we might dread. In this Christmas story we have the angel come to us and say “fear not” - “Do not be afraid” - “for see - I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” That is the message that we long to hear - that is the message that we come to hear as we gather together on Christmas Eve. For me this new way of hearing this story has added new meaning - there is something new in this old story. So now there is something new in the “Char-

By Shannon Johnson

Classifieds...........................................6

Baker, MT 406-778-2427

PAGE 10

The Fallon County Times will be closed Friday, Dec. 25, for Christmas.

Deadline for the December 25 issue is Tuesday, Dec. 22, at 2 p.m.

The Times Office will close at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24.

Marmarth writer publishes first book

Obits...................................................2

Russell’s Clothing

COLORING CONTEST!!

Christmas may have a new meaning

I want to be like Santa

By Shannon Johnson

Fallon County Times closed

for everyone on your list!

It may have been moved from the City Park, but Santa’s Mailbox is still taking letters.

But time may be running out.

According to Mayor Steve Zachmann, it will still be accepting letters for a little longer, but he advised children to finish their letters quickly.

Originally, the mailbox was at the City Park for the Christmas Tree Lighting celebration which drew most of the town to the festivities several weeks ago.

“It is at the City/County building now but the kids can still drop them (letters) off,” the mayor said Tuesday. “There is not much point to giving Santa a letter after Christmas,” he added, chuckling.

The committee which handled the Christmas Tree Lighting is responsible for the mailbox. “The key is for the parents to watch them write the letter and help them as much as they can,” the mayor explained.

• Jewelry • Blankets • Smartwool Socks

Check out our Facebook page or Website for updates. www.falloncountyextra.com

• Birkenstocks • Brighton • Under Armour • The North Face

Closing at 2:00 p.m. Dec. 24 Closed Dec. 25 & 26

Hadley winner of Baker Chamber promotion

The second winner of the Be A Winner! Shop In Baker! promotion, sponsored by the Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, was Carol Hadley of Baker.

She received $25 in Baker Bucks.

For up-to-the-minute news visit falloncountyextra.com We want to hear from you: See how to contact us on Page 3 Vol. 104 No. 51

©2020 Country Media Inc.

It’s been a pleasure to serve your clothing needs!

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

2

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

OBITUARIES

Vivian Pinnow, 79

Vivian (Ruff) Pinnow, 79, passed away Dec. 10, 2020 at Fallon Medical Complex in Baker, MT. Vivian was born Sept. 23, 1941 in Baker, to Theophil and Helen Ruff. Growing up in Plevna, a part of the southern community, she attended country school up to 8th grade, she then attended her freshman year in Baker. Vivian then transferred to Plevna, where she graduated high school. She continued her education in Billings, MT at the Billings Business College for one year in the secretarial field.

Vivian met Arnold Pinnow and on Oct. 1, 1960 they were married in the Emmanuel Congregational Church in Plevna, MT. The couple started their life together at the Pinnow Family Farm southeast of Baker. To this union there were four children, Craig, Brian, Neal and Robyn. They raised their family on the farm for twenty seven years and then moved to town. She worked in the banking industry in Baker, up until her retirement.

Vivian served her community with a soft smile and gentle helping nature as a bank teller. She loved work-

Funeral Service for Hilda Sieler, 96, of Baker, will be 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 18, 2020 at Assembly of God Church, Baker, MT, with Pastor Rod Kilsdonk officiating. Burial will follow at Community Union Cemetery in Plevna, MT. Visitation for Hilda will be 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020 at Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker, MT with a time of sharing at 6:30 p.m.

To view Hilda’s service live please visit the Baker Assembly of God Facebook page or copy and paste the following link: https://www.facebook. com/bakerassembly/ Hilda (Ehret) Sieler, 96, of Baker passed away of natural causes, Dec. 12, 2020 at Billings Clinic Hospital with her family at her side.

Hilda was born on the family farm five miles south of Plevna, the youngest of six, to German immigrants, Jacob and Elizabeth (Schrot) Ehret on Jan. 16 1924. She attended Prairie Park School through the 8th grade. She graduated from Plevna High School in 1941. She then went to Custer County Junior College in Mile City, graduating in 1943.

That fall she began teaching

ing on the farm and could often be found working on crosswords, word finds and creating quilts. Quilting was a passion for her and through the church her quilts where sent everywhere. Vivian enjoyed the 4-H program and the youth so she became a leader and was very active in the horse program. Due to her commitment to her community she shared her talents and time in many local groups, the Peace Lutheran Church Women, Red Hats Group and Baker Homemakers Club.

The South Eastern Montana Horse Racing Association had a committed member in Vivian. Her and Arnold were very active in the MT Pork Producers, she was even named Mrs. Porkette (Queen) in 1975.

Hilda Sieler, 96

7th and 8th grade in Plevna.

The following two years she taught 3rd and 4th grade. She then taught in country schools in the county for six years while working on additional college summer sessions in Billings and Missoula. From 1952-1957 she taught 5th and 6th grade at Plevna.

After 14 years of teaching she met the love of her life, Simon Sieler and married in 1957. To this union were born two sons, Steve in 1958 and Mark in 1961. With their marriages to Sue and Jutta respectfully, she said she gained the daughters she never had and loved them dearly. Grandchildren she loved so much included Shawn, Kyla (Carter), Kendall (Alyssa) and Shay Lynn (Aaron) and great granddaughters Deanne, Haley and Thea Rose.

Together Hilda and Simon

Always devoted to her family she never missed a music festival or sporting event that her children or grandchildren were participating in.

Vivian leaves behind a loving family that will miss her greatly. She is survived by her Husband Arnold, sons, Craig (Wanda) Pinnow, of Baker, MT, Brian (Debbie) Pinnow of Kent, WA, Neal (Lisa) Pinnow of Lemmon, SD; daughter Robyn (Dallas) Cole of Lemmon, SD; grandchildren, Alexiss (Brandon) Miller, Amber (Steven) Hurley, Leevon (Maria) Pinnow, Heather and Nathan Pinnow, Alec and Kaitlynn Pinnow, Chelsey (Scott) Reede, Kasy Cole, Joe (Kelsey) Cole, Kerstan Cole and Dillon Cole; great-grandchildren, Taylor and Brooklyn Miller, Morgan and Mila Hurley, Brandon Dominguez, Audrey and Tessa Brown and Johnathan Pinnow, Amelia and Emyrss Pinnow, Mica and Paxon Reede, Gracie Cole, Shelby and Carson Cole. Sisters, Evelyn (Jim) Huber of Killdeer ND, Janice (Floyd) Ehret of Plevna, MT. Preceded in death by parents, Theophil and Helen (Krueg) Ruff and infant brother.

raised their sons farming west of Baker and south of Ekalaka. She loved the Lord dearly and was a passionate student of the Bible at an early age in confirmation learning scripture in German as well as English. She enjoyed teaching Sunday school and was very involved in women’s ministry, Friendship Bible Coffees and was a faithful member of Baker Assembly of God Church.

She also loved to host people for meals, bake and cook for friends and family and was always attentive to the needs of others around the world. Hilda had a real heart for missions.

Hilda now rejoices with a clear mind and joins her Savior Jesus, her husband, Simon who passed away in 2005, as well as her parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Ehret, her siblings, Maggie Losing, Alvina Riggs, Lydia Scheuffele, Bill Ehret and Bertha Leischner.

Special Thanks to Stevenson Funeral Home, the EMT, medical teams and people of Superior Care Villa who took such care for our mom, grandmother and great-grandmother in her last years.

Condolences and memories can be share with the family at stevensonfuneralhome.com.

“Friends Healing Friends”

Fallon Medical Complex

Carrie Haar, FNP-C Kate Ernest, PA-C Brian Sullivan, MD Lisa Schreumann, FNP-C Whitney Jeffrey, PA-C

COMMUNITY CLINIC HOURS Monday – Friday • 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

SERVICES INCLUDE

NOTE: Schedule is subject to change without notice.

VISITING SPECIALISTS

Leszek Jaszczak, MD (Radiology) 24-hr access via Telemedicine to Specialists

Save the Date

December 2020

Staff Report

Pete Stanton has finished a perfect season – at least the conference part.

But the newly-named North Star Athletic Association Coach of the Year will have to wait until spring to conclude his football season.

The Baker graduate and former three-sport athlete with the Spartans led the Blue Hawks of Dickinson State University in North Dakota to a 9-0 record this fall.

However, the coach has to wait for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics football playoffs to start in 2021 after they were rescheduled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The team won its sixth straight conference crown and finished the regular season as only the sixth Blue Hawk squad ever to go undefeated.

His team easily won the title

with their perfect record, finishing ahead of Valley State, Waldorf, Dakota State, Mayville State and Presentation.

The Blue Hawks opened the season with a 26-14 win over Dakota State in September, then followed that with wins over Mayville State (51-26), Valley City (27-13), Presentation (35-6), Dakota State (233), Mayville State (37-7), Waldorf (28-13), Valley City (26-14), Presentation (54-32).

For Stanton, it was the fifth time named as the coach of the year.

According to the athletic department at the university, Stanton was named the 15th head coach in Dickinson State history in December of 2013. He has been with the program for 21 years after spending 14 years as an assistant coach.

At the start of the season, he was third amongst Dickinson State coaches in career wins after accumulating a 50-18 record in six years.

Stanton has led the Blue Hawks to the NSAA conference championship and appearances in the NAIA national playoffs in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. In 2018 he led the Blue Hawks to the NAIA quarter finals and won the first road playoff game in school history.

In 2019 the Blue Hawks became the first team in school history to win five consecutive confer-

ence championships. As a head coach, Stanton has coached nine All-American players.

Stanton came to Dickinson State in 2000 after being the head football coach at Terry (MT) for nine years and the head coach at Belgrade (MT) for two years. He had a 70-20 record at Terry High School where his teams made the playoffs all nine years. The Terry teams advanced to the state championship game on three different occasions.

Stanton is also an alumni, playing for the Blue Hawks during their era of domination in the mid80’s. He was part of two playoff teams and his three-year record as a player at DSU was 25-4.

Stanton was a two-time All-Conference and All-District selection as a safety. In 1987, he was named First Team NAIA All-American and an Academic All-American.

He was awarded the Harry J. Wienbergen male athlete of the year award as a senior and was inducted into the Dickinson State Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004.

Stanton earned a Master’s Degree from Montana State University and is currently serving as the athletic director for the Blue Hawks.

(Dickinson State University athletic department contributed to this article)

Baker. Alissa runs a small trucking business with her husband, Jon. She has four children that are active in sports and community activities.

She is excited to work with EPEDC in assisting the growth of the Food and Ag Programs and businesses in our area. She is passionate about being given the opportunity to help rural communities thrive. Alissa will be working with the Eastern Montana Food & Ag Development Center, which is one of eight centers located inside of our state’s borders. The Montana Food and Agricultural Development Center (FADC) Network helps Montanans innovate and grow businesses that produce and commercialize food, agricultural and renewable energy products, and processes, creating wealth and jobs in our communities and on our farms and ranches. The centers - located throughout Montana - operate as a statewide network serving community-based businesses.

The centers support economic development by ensuring that more of the state’s food, agricultural and energy dollars circulate in Montana. The network provides training, coaching and technical assistance.

Melissa Higbee joins the EPEDC team as the new Downtown Development Specialist.

Higbee will be actively assisting EPEDC alongside the EPEDC team in accomplishing tasks and

projects throughout the five-county district.

She graduated from Casper College in Casper, WY, with a certificate in Activities Coordinator Director in 2010. She has worked in activities in the senior care centers for a totally of five years where she implemented many programs to keep our seniors active and healthy. Higbee brings with her an extensive knowledge of event and organizational planning, as well as direct experience working with the federal government. She is originally from Georgia and moved out West 11 years ago, first to Buffalo, WY, then to Montana when she met her husband who is a native to Montana and has lived in Baker for seven years now. She loves small towns and rural settings, which is something she did not have growing up, and wants to give her children a small-town upbringing, where the pace of life is just right.

She is excited to be part of a team here at EPEDC to help keep rural communities thriving and cannot wait to dive in and work alongside other passionate people trying to better southeastern Montana.

You can contact Alissa Miller, Food and Agriculture Development Assistant at fada@epedc. com and Melissa Higbee, Downtown Development Specialist at dds@epedc.com.

EPEDC new employees

Eastern Plains Economic Development Corporation is thrilled to announce two new positions who will be able to provide economic development assistance in Carter, Dawson, Fallon, Prairie and Wibaux Counties.

Alissa Miller will join the EPEDC team as the new Food and Agriculture Development Assistant. Before moving to Baker, Alissa attended Bitterroot Cosmetology, Montana State University in Bozeman and then in Billings.

She has worked in many areas of business within Fallon County and is currently serving as Vice President of the Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, a 4H Organizational Leader, and volunteer in many areas of need in

Leanne Cota, PA-C

202 South 4th Street • Baker, MT 59313 406-778-3331 Hospital • 406-778-2833 Clinic

24 Hour ER/Hospital/LTC Dietetic Counseling X-Ray • Mammography Ultrasound • CT • MRI • Lab/On Demand Home Health • Life Line Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy Flu & Pneumonia Immunizations Prenatal care • Cryotherapy FAA & CDL Physicals Also seeing patients at the Wibaux Clinic Family health care for all ages

Former Baker athlete leads DSU to perfect record

Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre

Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021 Fallon County Fairgrounds Going back to the 80’s

Primary Care Provider now making limited medical house and urgent care calls in and around Fallon County For an appointment call:

406-778-7750 or 406-978-7750

Dr. James R. Campbell, DDS Family Dentistry

Complete general dentistry for adults & children:

• Preventive • Cosmetic • Implants • Crowns

• Root Canals • Extractions • Dentures • Fillings

Practice located in Baker since 1994

202 South 4th Street W. Baker, MT 59313

(lower level of Fallon Medical Complex)

(406)778-5150 (406)778-5431 (800)676-7161 Ext. 5431 231

Healthy Montana Kids Provider

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Monday - Friday

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Place an obituary Fallon County Times has three options for submitting obituaries: Basic Obituary - Includes the person’s name, age, town of residency and information about funeral services NO Charge Custom Obituary - You choose the length, wording and if you want a small photo - Cost is $30 for up to 300 words, more than 300 words $45.

Premium Obituary Several photos and a longer announcement cost varies by length of obituary.

All obituaries are placed on the Fallon County Times website at no cost.

December 18, 2020

FILES OF THE TIMES

10 YEARS AGO Friday, December 17, 2010 --

Cucancic Construction of Billings began work on the new fairgrounds grandstand in November.

All the excavation work has been completed and a minority of the footings have been poured. . .It was a beautiful evening Dec. 8 when Santa stopped by the new Baker Fire Station to visit with children. . .Sheila Verke of Fort Mohave, AZ, formerly of Baker, won the $95.3 million Arizona Powerball jackpot drawn Dec. 1. Sheila elected to take a lump sum of $49.9 million. . .The second winner of the Be A Winner!

Shop In Baker! promotion, sponsored by the Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, is Lynne Miller of Baker. Lynne will receive $100 in Baker Bucks. . .High temperature Dec. 13 was 40 degrees. . .Fallon County Extension Agent, Nico Cantalupo, has accepted a position to be the new Extension agent in White Sulphur Springs. His last day for Fallon County is Dec. 17. Cantalupo has been the Fallon County Extension Agent for almost six years. . .The eighth annual Fantasy Food Fair was hosted by Friends of FMC Foundation Dec. 4 at the Fallon County Fairgrounds exhibit hall.

They had 156 guests that night to partake of all the sweet and savory food fair. . .Pink Ladies donated funds to go toward the purchase of the Glidescope. The scope provides a consistently clear view of the patient’s airway, enabling quick intubation. . .Audrey Wipperling of Baker won the first prize package at the Medina Old Fashioned Cowboy Christmas Event held Dec. 4.

Thursday, December 20, 1990 --

O’Fallon Community Choir presented their annual Christmas Concert last Sunday to a packed house. The choir is under the direction of Terry Vaughn and the group was accompanied by Ruth Wang at the piano and Cindy Steen at the harp. . .Fallon Creek CowBelles November meeting was held at the Plevna Fire and hostesses were Evelynn Hoem and Alice Stickney. . .Sakelaris’ Kitchen will have a Christmas Eve breakfast buffet for $3.50. . .Baker CowBelles held their Student Beef Cook Off Dec 12. Kodi Koenig won first place and Kandis Koenig took second. Third place went to Pierette Christensen. . .Dec. 8, Gladys Moseley reported that she picked the last flowers from her garden. . .Montana Bank together with Montana Central Agency recently sponsored their first annual Christmas Tree Ornament Contest. Winners were David Cunningham, Mikel Zachmann, Terry Stanton and Sam Fisher.

40 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 18, 1980 --

A hay wagon, drawn by a team of horses owned by Willard Malcom, will be giving rides around Baker Dec. 20. . .The Baker High School twirlers will be presenting

Jack O’Connor was chosen king of the Homecoming activities at the College of Great Falls Dec. 12. . .Mr. Walt Leutkins, social studies instructor, took the senior class to court Wednesday. . .Kelly Steen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Steen of Baker and a member of the Country Pals 4-H Club, won one of six 1970 Heywood Sheep Foundation Awards of $100. . .Hobby Craft and Art Show at the American Legion hall Sunday afternoon was a huge success.

60 YEARS AGO

Thursday, December 15, 1960 --

A fire call was made Saturday evening about 8:20 to a trailer home on the east side of town parked on the Vern Leischner lot and occupied by the Gorder family. . .Noble Drilling contractor has moved a rig from the Little Beaver area to the Pennel field and is drilling a well for the Shell Oil Company. . .Mrs. Charles Adams of Carlyle recently accepted the appointment as Heart Memorial Chairman for Fallon County. . .An announcement is being made this week of a special deer season in area 761 Ismay and in a portion of Carter and Fallon Counties from Dec. 17 through Jan. 15.

70 YEARS AGO

Thursday, December 21, 1950 --

Friends of Mrs. Tom O’Connor, nee Mary Findlater, will be interested to know that she and her family are to leave by plane for Australia as soon as a house is built for them at the site of a large reservoir on which her husband is to be engineer. . .Mary Ann Schettler of Baker was among 23 student nurses of the Deaconess Hos-

Christmas vacation for Baker students advanced one week to prevent spread of chicken pox and scarlet fever. Plans for the annual Christmas tree programs of the various churches will also be given up in an effort to safeguard the health of the children in the community. . .Friday morning in the presence of the city council and water superintendent, water from the new well was let into the city mains and connection with the city water system was officially established. The water is of excellent quality. There will also be plenty of water for an emergency and the city is also in a position to supply water for the Milwaukee engines.

100 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 16, 1920 --

The county commissioners adjourned Tuesday after an eightday meeting. The bid of Dr. Young was accepted and he was appointed county physician at $40 per month, and health officer at $50 per month. . .Messrs. Schneider and Thompson have leased the Art Studio to Mr. L. C. Booen of Bowman, ND, and the new manager took possession about a week ago. . .Mr and Mrs. Clyde McLemore entertained a large party of friends last Friday evening at their home.

The guests had been invited to a “Mock Trial” and upon arriving, found the dining room transformed into a make believe court room. . . Rents on the boxes in the local post office will be given a skyward boost after January first, according to an announcement made by Assistant Post master Howells. . .Bentley Sinclair left last Saturday for the coast to join a party of boys who are members of the Navy Reserve and were notified they might go on a trip to South America if they desired.

ODD JOBS

Call Bruce Brown 406-941-2194

Baker Agronomy Center

Precision Parts & Supply • Lake City Shopping Center • Baker, MT

possible. We reserve the right to edit the letters for length as well as taste and libel. Letters should be typed or legibly written. Letters from outside the immediate area will be considered only if they are of local interest. Letters to the editor, guest columns and guest editorials do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this newspaper.

90 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 18, 1930 --

Book early for Snow Removal!

We will miss him!

Letters to the editor are welcome and will be published if they adhere to the following rules: They must be signed (unless e-mailed) and include an address and phone number for verification.

They must be an issue of public interest and preferably concern only one topic.

Letters should be as brief as

Last Friday morning a load of 1,024 dressed turkeys, weighing 14,000 pounds, was shipped out of Baker by the Southeastern Montana Turkey Growers Association, reports Bentley Sinclair. . .Six men enlist from Baker including Emmanuel Meccage, Eldon Mengel, Walter Rath, Martin Setinc, William A. and Thomas A. Beck. . .Oil and gas leases on over 800 acres of Fallon County land have been granted by the Montana Land Board to Lucille Smith of Minneapolis for the Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. and to Frank Becker of Baker. . .Dr. R. T. Joyce and Henry Wisenant were initiated as members of the Elks Lodge in Miles City last Tuesday.

Get’er Done Handyman

Stop in and wish Gerit well as he heads off to college.

Send a Letter to The Times

80 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 19, 1940 --

Full Service Agronomy Plant

Fertilizer • Crop Protection • Seed

• Recommendations and farm service geared around your operation • Latest in crop management products to maximize this year’s crop potential Grower owned company helping to achieve success in the field Stop in and visit:

Parker Murnion

Call: 406-778-2929

Published Every Friday in Baker, Montana 2020 Member

(USPS 184940)

Ph. 406-778-3344 • Fax: 406-778-3347 P.O. Box 679 • Baker, Montana 59313-0679 e-mail: fctimes@midrivers.com falloncountyextra.com Tammy O’Donnell

Media Consultant

Tina Rost

General Manager

Megan Slagter

Production

Brad Mosher

Reporter

UPCOMING EVENTS

Dec. 17 - Free Business Development, by appointment, call 406-748-2990.

Dec. 20 - Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center.

Dec. 21 - Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., Assembly of God Church basement; Fair Board meeting, 6 p.m., Fallon County Fairgrounds exhibit hall.

Dec. 22 - Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church.

Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Dec. 25 - Christmas Day Dec. 26 - Kwanzaa Dec. 27 - Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center.

Dec. 28 - Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., Assembly of God Church basement.

Dec. 29 - Lake Board meeting, 5:30 p.m., courthouse basement conference room.

Dec. 31 - New Year’s Eve Jan. 1 - New Year’s Day Jan. 3 - Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center.

Emmalyn Miller Steven Hurley

December 18

Deborah Afrank Beverly Schell Jason Benedict

December 22

Nick O’Connor Virginia Auwae Carter Thompson Jeff Brookes Keith Mettler Cory Manseau Max Moore

December 19

Alex Collie Jr. Peggy Hagadone Derrick Enos Terrance Adamson Tatum Adamson Trevin Lecoe

December 23

DuWayne Bohle Patti Brooks

December 20

Tim Grube Nancy Jensen Riley Schultz Brian Miller Jory Miller Sheridan Beach Stephanie Heaps

December 24

Laurie MacKay Peggy Ann Vennes Trisha Schell Dominque Bondley Norita Wiman Trevor Sander Maleaha Schmidt Adasa Custer

December 21

Brenda Schweigert

’S P

eS t

C

3

•HOPE, do you feel alcohol is causing problems, we can help, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the American Lutheran Church.

•District Court is in session the first Tuesday of the first full week of the month and as often as business warrants. Interested persons are welcome to check a specific schedule at the office of the Clerk of District Court.

•O’Fallon Historical Museum: Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m-noon & 1-4 p.m.

•Fallon County Library hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays.

•Driver Licensing Schedule, every Tuesday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m., courthouse.

Join The Times in wishing a Happy Birthday to ...

trol

Winners of the Baker Chamber of Commerce Lighting Contest were: first place - Tom and Traci Bruha, second - Bill and Maria Varner, third - Doug and Rosanne Varner. Honorable mentions were awarded to Kent Ehret, Ernie Scheetz and Paul Berger. . .Fallon County Public Health Office has now received the long-awaited flu shot vaccine for the general public. . .Baker Community Church is sponsoring Christmas dinner for those alone or with small families at noon Chnstmas day at Jane’s Home

30 YEARS AGO

50 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 17, 1970 --

pital, Great Falls, who received their caps at a capping ceremony. . .Rex Flint of Baker was named director of the Montana Chamber of Commerce.

on

20 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 22, 2000 --

Cookin’. . .Highway 7 has been completely closed to traffic due to bad weather this winter. Large drifts completely covering the highway from both directions have been nearly a weekly occurrence.

Highway Department employees have been working nearly non-stop since Oct. 31. . .Donavan Hecker and Kylan Klauzer of Baker were named to the 3-B All-State Football Team. . .Amber Gundlach of Baker High School was chosen to be the District 5 FCCLA vice president for next year. . .Baker Auto Parts has been sold to co-owners Dale Leivestad and Del Espinosa.

The name has been changed to Precision Parts and Supply and is now located in the Lake City Shopping Center. . .Robert and Lisa Crow recently purchased the franchise rights of International Water Works from Randy Morris. They will install new reverse osmosis systems and maintain those already in operation.

half-time entertainment during the championship game at the boys basketball tournament Saturday evening at the Baker High School.

Presenting the performance will be Jan Stoddard, Laurie Breitbach, Kathy McGonigal, Carla Barone, Barb Mahon and Kim Lund. . .Verke Refrigeration and Solid State Electronics celebrated their third anniversary last week.

Winners of $25 gift certificates were Alice Kay Schweigert and Rodney Frazer. . .Following heart surgery Dec 16, Bob O’Donnell is doing well in the Deaconess Hospital in Billings. . .Five Boy Scouts from Troop 258 passed tests for swimming skill awards last Wednesday night. Harold Miller, assistant Scoutmaster, was in charge of the testing. Winning skill awards were Jerry Williams, Mark Hecker, Tom and Bill Price. . .Ralph Twiford, 62, passed away Thursday evening, Dec. 11. . .Betty Eichhorn, housekeeping department head, has been named Fallon Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home employee of the month for December.

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Advertising must be in by 2 p.m. Tuesday Periodicals postage paid in Baker, MT POSTMASTER Send address changes to: FALLON COUNTY TIMES • PO Box 679 • Baker, MT 59313 SUBSCRIPTION RATES: $52 Inside County $72 Outside County ADVERTISING RATES: Local.....................................................per column inch $7.10 National Advertising............................per column inch $8.36 Classified.....................................15¢ per word over 25 words $8.95 minimum, all strictly cash Cards of Thanks .........................15¢ per word over 50 words $6.85 minimum, all strictly cash

4

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

The Spartan Scroll

Logan Graham explains the chemical formula for “Cancer Killer”.

News from the Baker Schools

Paiton Graham, Alissah Hickey, and Sydney Kirschten play their commercial to the class for their product “Expen-da-Trash.”

Speech class brings television series to the classroom

Biofilm visit

By Linda Rost

On Dec. 9, 2020, Maddie Mettler, a Ph.D. Chemical Engineering student with the Center for Biofilm Engineering at Montana State University, virtually visited science classrooms at Baker Junior/High School to share her research. She joined science teacher Linda Rost’s 10th-12th-grade classes and science teacher Jessica Boggs’ 7thgrade classes. Mettler talked to the classes about biofilms, which are complex clumps of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, algae, or a combination, that can form on many common surfaces. Students recognized that biofilms are the slimy films that form on their unwashed water bottles or in their shower drains. Mettler explained that she works with NASA, finding new materials that can prevent biofilms from forming in the International Space Station. Biofilms have formed all over the MIR Russian space station, including a floating sphere of moldy water that cohabitated with the cosmonauts. She has worked for NASA for three years and is excited to play a role in helping to build a gateway on the Moon that could be used to launch a manned spacecraft to Mars. The Moon gateway would have to be unattended for extended periods and if biofilms were to grow there, astronauts would not be able to use it. Students also learned that biofilms are not all bad and can be used for engineering applications including cleaning water in aquifers and isolating ores in mining operations. Mettler explained that there is often a lower proportion of female and BIPOC students in engineering programs in the U.S. She emphasized that Montana State has a very strong and growing engineering program and has made efforts to recruit and support a diverse population of students.

JOB OPENING

Baker Public Schools is accepting applications for the position of a permanent full-time Custodian. This position provides custodial services for the District inside and outside; applicant will be hired upon approval of a satisfactory background check and passage of a physical.

Wages to start at $16.84 per hour with benefits to include paid employee health insurance, vacation and paid sick leave.

Specific job related questions can be directed to Mardi Brown, Head of Maintenance at (406) 778-3329. Applications may be sent to Baker Public Schools, attn: Jen Mettler, PO Box 659, Baker, MT 59313, email mettlerj@baker.k12.mt.us or call (406)778-2577. Applications and job description can be found on the District website, www.baker.k12.mt.us and click on “Employment”.

Job will be open until filled.

Students worked on their entrepreneurial skills in speech class this past week, where they were able to participate in “Shark Tank” themed presentations. If not familiar with the television series, this show on ABC allows people to present their business concepts and inventions to a group of wealthy investors for a chance to market and help their businesses grow. This has become a popular series, especially for exposing new and unique inventions to the general public. Mr. Austin Waldbillig took a spin on this idea and tasked his students with creating their own innovative products to present to the class.

Students enjoyed the creative element in getting to come up with their own useful product to bring to market. Along with the expectations of presenting a speech, students were required to create a commercial, ex-

plain the facts and figures, and then answer any questions about their product that came from “guest sharks” and their fellow classmates. Students had a lot of fun with this unique assignment and really got to push themselves in new creative ways of thinking outside the box.

All products were developed to help solve some kind of issue in society and make things more efficient or improve everyday life.

Sydney Kirschten, Alissah Hickey and Paiton Graham developed a “Expen-da-Trash” can that improved the method of bagging-up garbage. Konnor Flint and Logan Graham created “Cancer Killer” pills that very much resembled M&Ms candy and supposedly had a chemical formula almost exactly the same as “Advil.” Students had many questions to offer for these two on the safety and

use of this product! Mckenna Griffith and Emily Shumaker presented “Probar Technology,” which was a weight-lifting bar that could automatically add or take away weight digitally for its users. Maria Moser, Tai Setinc and Sayge Barkley came up with a modern way to solve sitting at home too much with their product called, “Tread Flix & Chill.” Users of this invention would have to use the special treadmill to operate and earn minutes for watching Netflix each day. Some products included many unique qualities for solving problems with weight, acne, hydration and health. Others were more centered on technological advances and improving everyday items in today’s world. Overall, students were very much engaged with this interesting concept for speech and came up with some intriguing ideas to share!

Students anxiously await winter competitions

By Sophia Dulin

For the past couple of weeks, Baker Spartans have been gearing up for winter season events.

There has been a delay for all High School sports based on MHSA guidelines until the beginning of January and so students have had to wait to start practices and competitions. Because of this, students are more excited than anyone could imagine to get back into competing and being with their peers. I decided it would be good to catch up with students from a variety of areas in winter activities to see where their emotions and feelings are for the upcoming season.

As training starts, one of the most important things is being at your best or peak level for performance. Logan Graham, a senior basketball player, mentioned he trained a lot during the summer. He has remained going to the gym to work out and always practices his shots to keep his skills fresh. Logan

says, “I’m motivated most by my determination to get to the next level.” The Lady Spartans are also remaining optimistic for this season. Emily Shumaker, a junior on the basketball team, says she has a deep passion for the sport. She has kept up with training and mentioned doing anything it takes to stay in the gym and keep grinding. The basketball season will be covered in a much smaller time frame this year because of the delays too.

Teams will have to squeeze 14 games into a month and a half to keep up. This will leave little time to regroup and fix kinks in the system. Rilee Pettersen, a junior stated, “I just keep trying to stay positive and enjoy the sport that I love so much.”

Wrestling remains to be another sport that has had to remain positive. Many like Marcos Gallegos, are just looking forward to the opportunity to possibly make it to the State Competition.

In fact, wrestling will have two female additions to the wrestling

The Bank of Baker will close at

team this year with Sophia Dulin and Jacey Gorder. There will also be an official separate Girls’ State Wrestling competition this season as well. Jacey Gorder, a sophomore, says she runs every day she can and practices in the wrestling room at her house.

When asked what changes have been made, she stated being a little upset at how many fewer matches there will be.

Meets will not be able to have more than 50 athletes at one time and no more than two matches in a day. However, all athletes remain positive and won’t let these changes slow them down. Jacey advice is, “to keep your head up and do what you know, ask for help, and it will get better.”

For Speech and Drama, things look a little different as they have already somewhat started their season. Meets for speech and drama will all be virtual this year, leaving students to adapt to a new normal for competitions.

Hannah Goerndt, a senior who competes in Dramatic Solo said, “This year is definitely going to be challenging, it is going to be a lot harder to gauge the audience and judges’ reactions, but I hope that everything will work out for the best.”

Winter sports competitions will kick-off again starting Jan. 8, with basketball at home. Students are excited to participate and start up once again with these activities.

Baker School Menu Week of Dec. 21

Breakfast

Monday: Donut, egg, fruit, milk Tuesday: Bagel, bacon, fruit, milk Wednesday:NO SCHOOL Thursday: NO SCHOOL Friday: NO SCHOOL

12 p.m. (noon) on Christmas Eve and will be closed Christmas Day. We will also close at 12 p.m. (noon) New Year’s Eve and we will be closed on New Year’s Day.

Lunch

Monday: Sausage, egg, cheese, biscuit, tri tater, fruit, milk Tuesday: Spartan taco, lettuce, fruit, milk Wednesday:NO SCHOOL Thursday: NO SCHOOL Friday: NO SCHOOL

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406-778-3618 14. South Main St. | Baker, MT

701-523-3737 11 1st Ave. SE | Bowman, ND

Open

Monday - Friday

7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Fallon County Times

December 18, 2020

Cougar Tracks

News from the Plevna School

5

FFA Officer Meeting Second grade Google Slides and Indigenous People

By Chapter Secretary, Jaeda Paul

On Dec. 1, the Plevna FFA Chapter Officers met to discuss all the events that December would hold for the chapter. The group discussed all of the activities they are doing in December as well as the Christmas meeting agenda. The activities that the chapter has for this month are writing letters to the elderly citizens of our community and decorating the signs at the end of town with some holiday spirit. The team decided on snacks and games for the upcoming meeting. The officer team collectively decided to add holiday jokes and FFA fun facts in the bag. At the meeting, the chapter will write and sign Christmas cards for citizens. Games and activities for the December FFA meeting include Christmas Musical Chairs, Christmas Charades, as well as provide opportunities for coloring pictures and decorating ornaments. The officer team then discussed their ideas for the signs outside of town. These ideas included tinsel and some ornaments. The group then laid out the agenda for the December chapter meeting. The officers hope the members enjoy the fun activities for the December meeting.

FFA Meat and Cheese Fundraiser

Weston Robertus, Alan Wiedmer, and Mason Lai with their presentation on the Sioux tribe.

By Sophia Schumacher

By Jenna Paul

This year’s fruit sales took on a very different appearance. Firstly, the chapter voted to not sell fruit seeing that it is the least profitable portion on the order form. The next change in the system came to delivery. Students were required to wear masks and gloves while unloading the truck, and sorting out boxes. Additionally, the members are encouraged to have no contact deliveries for all items sold. In other words, they set up a delivery option for their customers to have a drop off and go. The members would like to thank all of those who helped support the FFA through this fundraiser!

The second grade class learned how to create a Google Slide and researched the Nez Perce and the

Sioux indigenous tribes. Brynn Buerkle, Kellan Knuths and Emory Rieger researched the Nez Perce tribe. Located in Washing-

ton, Idaho, Oregon, and on the western border of Montana, the Nez Perce were forced to move west into Montana because of settlers in the west who wanted more hunting land. They wear long fringed shirts, leggings buckskin dresses and robes; the men of the tribe fished for salmon, told stories to the young, and trained Appaloosa horses.

Meanwhile, the women taught their daughters the art of traditional cooking, weaving, and basketry. For part of the year the Nez Perce lived in longhouses called kuhetini. Weston Robertus, Alan Wiedmer, and Mason Lai researched the Sioux, this indigenous tribe lived in Minnesota and Wisconsin where they followed the bison. Children in

the Sioux tribe care for the horse and watched after their smaller family members. The women of the Sioux people owned all family belongings, taught their daughters to cook, tan hides for clothing, and assemble tepees.

The Second Grade Class enjoyed learning about different indigenous cultures. The class gained many new skills through Google Slides as well. For example, they learned how to insert images, color a background, create bigger fonts, and insert shapes. To showcase their knowledge on their tribe the Second Graders presented their projects to each other through a Google Meet.

The students enjoyed acquiring new knowledge about Google Slides and indigenous people!

The fifth graders showing off their turkey’s.

Sophia Schumacher, Whitney Thielen, Nick Buerkle, Ruilin Li, Izzy Cuppy, and Maddi Butori; Not Pictured: Chloe Tudor, Jenna Paul, Jaiden Dulin and Dacy Buerkle The second graders, proudly presenting their birds.

Brynn Buerkle showing off her prize.

Kellan Knuths with his certificate.

Second grade AR Points

By Sophia Schumacher

Recently, Brynn Buerkle and Kellan Knuths reached 20 AR points in Mrs. Oberlander’s class. Brynn and Kellan each received a certificate and a sheet of stickers for their accomplishments and hard work.

Good Job, Brynn and Kellan for your incredible achievement!

Plevna School Menu Week of Dec. 21 Monday: Corn dog, baked Wednesday: No School beans w/lentils, celery w/ Thursday: No School peanut butter, applesauce Friday: No School Tuesday: Beef & cheese burrito, carrots, mangoes

Turkey PE

By Chloe Tudor

Throughout the fourth week of November, Mrs. Phelps brought a festive twist to her PE classes.

The students were ecstatic to fill in their turkey hula-hoop. The objective was to run back and fourth the long way of the gym floor, each time a team member would retrieve back to their hula-hoop and tie on a “feather”.

The challenge was that Mrs. Phelps had the students executing one and two footed hops, skipping, bear crawling and crab walking across the gym.

We hold a regular weekly cattle and feeder cattle sale every Wednesday.

The students all appreciated the turkey contest, and the colorful outcome!

Tri-State Chiropractic Center Dr. Charles F. Whitney

Special Sales as advertised. Give us a call to visit about your marketing plans.

Open between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday. Your cattle will be delivered to Lemmon Livestock on Tuesday evening and will be sold on Wednesday.

701-523-3239

Cattle will be on feed & water and a brand inspector on site

Wed. Dec. 16- Regular Sale w/ Special Bred HFR Wed. Jan. 13- Regular Sale w/ All Breed Calf Sale & Stock Cow Sale Wed. Jan. 20- Regular Sale w/ All Breed Calf Sale Wed. Dec. 23- NO SALE due to Christmas & Bred HFR/Stock Cow Sale Wed. Dec. 30- NO SALE due to New Years Wed. Jan. 6- Regular Sale w/ Weaned Calf Special Wed. Jan. 27- Regular Sale w/ All Breed Calf Sale You can now reach us on the Internet at www.lemmonlivestock.com If you have livestock to consign or would like us to stop at your ranch, please call Lemmon Livestock at 605-374-3877 or 800-822-8853 Paul Huffman Owner/Manager 605-374-5675 or cell 605-645-2493 C & D Yards Baker, Montana 406-778-3282 Curt Williams Baker Field Rep. 406-978-2520

Band members Jenna Paul Tenor Saxophone, Dacy Buerkle - Trumpet, Chloe Tudor - Clarinet, Cheyenne Farris - Bass Clarinet, Nick Buerkle - Trombone, Izzy Cuppy - Alto Saxophone, Jaiden Dulin - Bass Clarinet, Ruilin Li - Drums, Maddi

Butori - Flute, Whitney Thielen - Alto Saxophone and Sophia Schumacher - Flute have been selected as Honor Band participants. Great job to everyone for all their hard work and dedication. Congratulations!

Fallon County Times Business Directory

111 4th St. NW PO Box 176 Bowman, ND 58623

C & D Yards • Baker, Montana

Honor Band

Guns N Things LLC 305 N. Merrill Ave. Glendive, MT

406-377-3969 Ernie Huether e-mail: eh7mm@mcn.net

Guns & Reloading Equipment

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If you are being emotionally or physically hurt, call 406-978-9262 for free and confidential help 24 hours a day.

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Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Windshield Repair & Replacement Reflex Spray-In Bedliners Mobile Soda Blasting

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6

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

Fallon County marks dramatic COVID-19 drop

Drive-in movie weekend starts Saturday with Elf

Staff Report

Fallon County is dropping fast.

At least in positive tests when it comes to the battle against a pandemic which has claimed more than 300,000 in less than a year.

It has been dramatic drop in the pandemic positive case load.

Several weeks ago, Fallon County reported 80 active COVID-19 cases in a county with just over 2,900 people.

As of Tuesday, the state health office had only one listed in the county.

The Fallon County Health Department announced there were just five active cases Monday.

It was a trend the county has been showing for a while, with 12 cases listed Dec. 10 and that came after a day after the county health department celebrated having no new cases on its Facebook page. “Today was the first day we’ve had in a long while with ZERO new COVID-19 cases! Great job to our residents and a special thanks to those businesses in town that are doing their part. We appreciate you!!!”

State numbers drop That trend is happening state-wide.

Although Montana has reached 826 COVID-19 fatalities by Tuesday, the state also logged 64,298 recoveries.

On Nov. 13. the state had more than 1,600 new daily positive cases.

As of Monday, that number had dropped by half to 803 new daily positives.

Since the pandemic hit the state in March, there have been a total of 74,040 cases, with many of the counties with large cities being the hardest hit.

Yellowstone County has had 12,813 cases this year, with 2,224 currently listed as active and 92 new positives. So far this year, 10,444 have recovered and the county has had 145 fatalities.

On Nov. 14, Yellowstone County hit a high of 1,622 new cases. On Dec. 14, it was just 53 cases.

Joke of the Day

When I moved into my new igloo, my friends threw me a surprise house-warming party.

Now I’m homeless.

The George Avenue construction project east of the Baker High School campus is nearing completion.

PHOTO/Brad Mosher

George Avenue project close to completion Staff Report

The City of Baker is close to completing the George Avenue project in the residential area east of the Baker High School campus.

According to Steve Zachmann, the mayor of the city, the project is nearly complete, especially on the east end close to Lincoln School.

“The city’s portion of that project is about 95 percent done. The (Lincoln) school’s part of it is done. There is the landscaping that needs to be done at the Lincoln School end – just filling in around the concrete that was poured.

“George Avenue is open now from Third Street to First Street.

The corner is open between George Avenue and Second Street. But Second Street going south one block is still closed,” he explained.

“I still have to find out from the school what their schedule is for re-laying the curb.”

The city still has to make some decisions. “We have some work to do on the street and we have not

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or call Cameron or Melanie at (406)-778-2219 for an application.

Applications may also be faxed to (406)-778-3134.

There will be more parking available for employees and customers when the lot across from the Post Office in Baker is fully cleared, according to the owner of the property, Ken Schell. Although it will be a gravel lot, it could be paved at a later date, he explained.

PHOTO/Brad Mosher

The deadline to place classified advertising is 2 p.m. every Tuesday for that week’s publication. Call The Times today (406) 778-3344

MONTANA STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

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decided if there is going to be much with that this winter or if that will wait until spring,” the mayor said.

For most of the residents, the inconvenience created over the past few weeks by the construction is over, the mayor noted.

The project was to make repairs and handle drainage from the north end of the football field next to the high school to nearby Lincoln School property.

City workers started cutting through the asphalt Oct. 15 just west of the Lincoln School property and was planned to take about three weeks.

“The excavation will be on the south side of the street,” the mayor said when the project started. “We will dig and place the drainpipe, then cover that as we go,” he said.

During construction, disruption of traffic was considered as part of the planning, with the city and school district coordinating the work to mitigate it, including rerouting the drop off and loading of students at the school.

The Fallon County Fairgrounds’ two-night drive-in will begin with the movie Elf, starring Saturday Night Live alum Will Ferrell, in the parking area next to the Livestock Barn. It will start at 6 p.m.

Also starring James Caan and Bob Newhart, it is a 2003 movie telling the tale of a man raised as an elf at the North Pole who decides to travel to New York City to locate his real father. The movie is 1 hour and 37 minutes long.

The second night, it will be the 2000 movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” with comedian Jim Carrey taking the title role in the live-action comedy based on the famous Dr. Seuss book. It tells the tale about how on the outskirts of Whoville lives a green, revenge-seeking Grinch who plans to ruin Christmas for all of the citizens of the town.

The movie won a best make up Oscar and was nominated for two others in costume design and art direction. It is 1 hour and 44 minutes in length.

According to a fairgrounds spokesperson, there was an online survey for choosing the Christmas-themed movie to be played Dec. 19 and Dec. 20.

The parking lot will be open, but people will have to bring their own concessions or snacks, a fairground spokesperson advised.

HELP WANTED: Grasslands Federal Credit Union, Baker Branch has an opening for a Member Service Representative. Come join a fun and dedicated team providing financial services to eastern Montana. The chosen candidate will possess excellent member service skills, a strong work ethic, basic computer/technology experience and a desire to learn new skills.

We offer an incredible benefits package and competitive pay.

Resume and application required for consideration. Position open until filled. Request an application or more information by emailing emily@grasslandscu.com or stopping by the Baker branch.

51-1c ____________________________ FARM/RANCH HELP WANTED: Located in the rolling hills between Baker and Ekalaka, MT with

FALLON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are seeking a Mechanic for our Road department. This full-time position performs mechanical repairs and maintenance on all County equipment including but not limited to heavy equipment, motor vehicles, small engine, and various type of grounds equipment. We offer competitive wages and excellent benefit package, including a Monday – Friday schedule, and 10 paid holidays.

Closing Date: This recruitment will remain open until filled. First review of applications will be on Monday, January 04, 2021. Applications and a complete job description are available at the Human Resources office, 10 W. Fallon Avenue, Baker, Montana or online at falloncounty.net. Submit applications (resumes optional) to: Human Resources Manager, PO Box 846, Baker, Montana, 59313. Questions may be directed to Bobby Wiedmer 406-978-2015, Alba Higgins 406-778-2019, or Julie Straub 406-778-8164.

AT YOUR PLACE. www.uncorkedandcreative.com or Facebook: Uncorked and Creative Painting Classes ______________________________________ CHRISTMAS SALE - Beautiful Caucasian Shepherd Dog Puppies! Protect your family, property, livestock with this ancient, herding, guard dog. Call to negotiate to your price (406) 210-4807

FOR SALE access to two great school systems.

Position is a mix of farming/ranching/mechanics with an equivalent wage of over $20/hr and $400 starting bonus. Includes use of remodeled older log home, the chance to run your own cows with the first 20 for free, along with many other miscellaneous benefits. Must have 2 years of full-time experience, esp calving cows, carpentry skills/CDL helpful and is an alcohol/smoke-free workplace. Call 406-975-6236.

51-1c

FOR SALE: 1984 16x80 Medallion, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, large utility, living room fire place. Ready to move to your lot. $14,000 or best offer. 406-775-6689.

50-52c

WANTED

LEGALS

WANT TO PURCHASE: Minerals and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201.

36-38p

Closing Date: This recruitment will remain open until filled. Review of applications will be on Monday, January 04, 2021. Applications and a complete job description are available at the Human Resources office, 10 W. Fallon Avenue, Baker, Montana or online at falloncounty.net. Submit applications and a copy of current nursing license (resumes optional) to: Human Resources Manager, PO Box 846, Baker, Montana, 59313.

Questions may be directed to Kim Cuppy 406-778-2824 or Julie Straub 406-778-8164.

CARD OF THANKS: Thank you to Baker Boy Scouts for the wreath I won in your drawing.

Carmie Steffes 51c

NOTICE OF BIDS FOR SALE OF SURPLUS EQUIPMENT The City of Baker Montana is accepting sealed written bids for the

Fallon County

Times

For your Printing Needs

FALLON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are seeking a Director of Public Health for our Public Health department.

This full-time position is responsible for a variety of programs which protect and promote the health of our citizens. This work includes identifying community health problems, diagnosing, and investigating health problems and health hazards in the community. This position leads and participates in the day-to-day operations of the Public Health Department, including but not limited to providing comprehensive nursing services in preventative health, home health, clinic programs, community outreach and relations, staff training and development. We offer competitive wages and excellent benefit package, including a Monday – Friday schedule, and 10 paid holidays.

Closing Date: This recruitment will remain open until filled. First review of applications will be on Monday, December 28, 2020. Applications and a complete job description are available at the Human Resources office, 10 W. Fallon Avenue, Baker, Montana or online at falloncounty.net. Submit applications and a copy of current nursing license (resumes optional) to: Human Resources Manager, PO Box 846, Baker, Montana, 59313. Questions may be directed to Julie Straub 406-778-8164.

FALLON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are seeking a Staff Nurse for our Public Health department to support our growing services and clientele. This full-time position performs a variety of activities which protect and promote the health of our citizens. Provides a variety of skilled nursing services in venues including client homes, the Public Health office, public schools, and Fallon County Detention Center. We offer competitive wages and excellent benefit package, including a Monday – Friday schedule and 10 paid holidays.

CARD OF THANKS

sale of the following items: 1 - 2010 Dodge Charger, V6 engine 4 door sedan silver in color 102,471 miles.

2 - metal office desks 2-piece beige in color.

Bids must be sealed and plainly marked as “Baker surplus property” and mailed to the City of Baker, P.O. Box 1512, Baker, MT 59313 or delivered to the City Clerk’s Office at 10 W. Fallon Ave. in Baker, MT prior to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021. Bids will be opened and publicly read aloud at the above address on the above date at 7 p.m.

For further information or to view items please contact City Clerk, Kevin Dukart at 406-7782692.

The City of Baker reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any technicalities in the bidding process.

Dated this 3rd day of December 2020 s/Kevin J. Dukart Clerk/Treasurer City of Baker 50-51c MNAXLP

T O SP

Having a hard time herding a job?

See the classifieds section to spot the new one for you.

EW N A JOB AY TOD

Fallon County Times Classifieds Sell!

Call 406-778-3344

fctimes@ midrivers.com

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

7

CALL 1-800-472-2218 CLICK WWW.BOWMANSALES.net OR STOP IN AT: 12 S. MAIN ST IN BOWMAN!

Hours Of Operation Mon. - Fri. | 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Saturday | 8 a.m. - Noon

Home of the Ford Boys

With gratitude for your support, we wish you all the best!

2020 Ford Superduty F-350 Platinum Truck

2021 Ford Superduty F-350 Lariat Truck

2020 Ford Superduty F-250 XLT Truck

2021 Ford Superduty F-250 XLT Truck

MSRP .............................................................$74,545

MSRP .............................................................$73,095

MSRP .............................................................$65,655

MSRP .............................................................$65,230

F-Series Retail Customer Cash ...................... --$500

F-Series Retail Customer Cash ...................... --$250

F-Series Retail Customer Cash ...................... --$500

F-Series Retail Customer Cash ...................... --$250

Final Price .................................................................

Final Price .................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

$74,045

2017 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Pickup

$72,845

2019 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Short Bed Truck

2018 Ford F-350 Lariat Crew Cab Long Bed Truck MSRP .............................................................$62,900 Final Price ..................................................................

$65,155

$64,980

$62,900

2017 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Pickup

2017 Ford F-550 Chassis Cab Chassis Truck

2015 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

MSRP ....................................................... $57,900

MSRP ....................................................... $54,900

MSRP ....................................................... $54,900

MSRP ....................................................... $52,900

MSRP ....................................................... $51,900

Final Price .............................................................

Final Price .............................................................

Final Price .............................................................

Final Price .............................................................

Final Price .............................................................

$57,900

2020 Ford Superduty STX Truck

MSRP .............................................................$50,505

$54,900

2014 Ford F-350 Crew Cab Truck

$54,900

2015 Ford F-350 Crew Cab Truck

$52,900

2016 Ford F-250 Crew Cab Truck

MSRP .............................................................$48,900

MSRP .............................................................$47,900

MSRP .............................................................$46,900

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

$51,900

2015 Ford F-350 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

MSRP .............................................................$46,900

Special Package Retail Customer Cash ............ --$1,000 F-Series Retail Customer Cash ...................... --$500 Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..............................................................

$49,005

$48,900

$47,900

$46,900

$46,900

2015 Ford F-350 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

2016 Ford F-350 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

2020 Ford Superduty F-350 XL Truck

2018 Ford F-350 Crew Cab Short Bed Truck

2017 Ford F-550 Chassis Cab Chassis Truck

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

MSRP .............................................................$44,900

MSRP .............................................................$44,900

MSRP .............................................................$43,830

MSRP .............................................................$42,900

MSRP .............................................................$38,900

F-Series Retail Customer Cash ...................... --$500 Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

$44,900

$44,900

2016 Ford F-550 Chassis Cab Chassis Truck

2012 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck MSRP .............................................................$29,900

MSRP .............................................................$32,900 Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

$43,330

2010 Ford F-350 Crew Cab Truck

$42,900

2008 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

$38,900

2008 Ford F-250 Crew Cab Truck

MSRP .............................................................$26,900

MSRP .............................................................$24,900

MSRP .............................................................$23,900

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price..................................................................

$32,900

$29,900

$26,900

$24,900

$23,900

2010 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

2008 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

2008 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck MSRP ....................................................... $17,900

2012 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Truck

MSRP .............................................................$14,900

2008 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab Short Bed Truck

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price .............................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

Final Price ..................................................................

MSRP .............................................................$20,900

$20,900

MSRP .............................................................$18,900

$18,900

$17,900

$14,900

MSRP .............................................................$13,400

$13,400

for more of our inventory visit

www.bowmansales.net AFTER HOURS: Josh Lindstrom 701-523-6503 | Mark Wald 701-440-8789 | Wayne Bergquist 701-523-6502

8

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

Law Enforcement

Baker Police Department

•proactive patrols of schools, businesses and residential areas.

Anyone with any information on any area crime is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 406-778-2222.

From the Bench

Justice Court

•Brandon Lynn Brooks, Baker, operating without liability insurance in effect, 1st offense, bond forfeited $285, ticket issued 11/26/2020.

•Brandon Lynn Brooks, Baker, seatbelt violation, bond forfeited $20, ticket issued 11/26/2020.

•Colton David Cornwell, Baker, speeding on non-interstate, exceed day limit of 70 MPH, 92/70, bond forfeited $120, ticket issued 11/18/2020.

•Ian R. Horner, Warroad, MN, speed, exceed restricted speed limit established

local authority, 45/35, bond forfeited $55, ticket issued 11/17/2020.

•Ivory D. Horsechief, Billings, driving a motor vehicle while privilege to do so is suspended or revoked, 1st offense, bond forfeited $285, ticket issued 3/28/2020.

•Ivory D. Horsechief, Billings, speeding on non-interstate, exceed night limit of 65 MPH, 81/65, bond forfeited $70, ticket issued 3/28/2020.

•Ivory D. Horsechief, Billings, contempt, justice, bond forfeited $100, ticket issued 3/28/2020.

Legal Tip of the Week Did you know … you have the right to challenge negative changes to your Medicaid, food stamps, or other public benefits by requesting a fair hearing?

The fair hearing process is your opportunity to tell your side of the story and have the issue decided by a neutral hearing officer who acts like a judge. You also have the right to be represented by an attorney at the fair hearing.

But don’t delay. You have to ask for a fair hearing before it’s too late or you won’t get one at all.

For more information, please visit the Public Benefits section of www.MontanaLawHelp.org. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, try our smart search bar. Or call the Montana Legal Services Association HelpLine at 1-800666-6899. Support free legal information for all Montanans at mtlsa.org/donate/.

• Family Owned and Operated • Most Affordable Traditional and Cremation Services in the Area • Pre-Need Arrangements • Closest Crematory in the Area • Monument Sales and Services

Final plans for a loved one can be hard. During a difficult time with numerous decisions needing to be made, let us help to be a guiding path

Silha Funeral Home & Crematory Services 1-800-368-2690 ~ 1-406-377-2622

Dr. Caitlin Jacquot, DDS Dr. Weston Hafner, DDS

20 First Ave. SW • Bowman, ND 58623

701-523-5651

Daines statement on first COVID-19 vaccine delivery to Montana U.S. Senator Steve Daines released the following statement following the first delivery of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine to Montana: “Today, the first COVID-19 vaccine was delivered to Montana and administered in the U.S. This day would not have been possible without American innovation, Operation Warp Speed, and the dedication from top scientists and the Trump administration,” Daines said. “I’m proud to have secured the initial $10 billion that helped make this modern medical miracle possible, and I will continue working to ensure all Montana communities get access.”

Montana is expected to receive an estimated first dose allocation of 9,750 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. The second round of doses are expected to be provided to the state in a separate shipment before the second dose schedule, which is 21 days after the first.

Daines was instrumental in securing the initial $10 billion for the research, development, manufacturing and distribution of

COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics under Operation Warp Speed (OWS) - with top researchers, scientists and administration officials touting the Senator’s work.

On March 22nd, the Billings Gazette reported: Daines Proposes $10 Billion to Pay for Early Manufacture of Coronavirus Drugs.

Soon after, President Trump praised Senator Daines for his work securing this funding and for prioritizing vaccine development saying, “He’s been right at the forefront.”

Just last week, Daines was asked to join the COVID-19 Vaccine Summit at the White House because of his work on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutic drugs under OWS. Daines and his wife are also participating in Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine trial, where they’re leading by example for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should get the vaccine.

By Eastern Plains Economic This would be a safe and invitDevelopment Corporation ing activity for the community.

Prevention Lifeline Rollout

Making your community Local calls will require area stronger through ‘Placemaking’ code due to National Suicide

What is “placemaking”?

Placemaking can be confusing and a little bit intimidating for most. Placemaking as an economic development strategy, also called place-based economic development, is the practice of using a community’s public amenities to make economic progress. This approach focuses on the unique features of particular places, building on existing assets, and using them to attract new investment and strengthen existing businesses. To define what placemaking looks like in your town you must identify talents and resources in your community. Starting out small could be your answer to creating an inviting space in your town!

One small example of placemaking would be to host a Chalk Festival. This “festival” uses what you already have in your town: sidewalks and streets!

The festival engages people of all ages in the community. You can seek out your talented artists in your town by advertising ahead of time via newspaper, Facebook, and flyers. Local business owners could sponsor an artist to chalk paint the sidewalk in front of their business.

You can also have your talented artists at the festival to help people come up with ideas of what to draw and tips on drawing as well. Also, giving a reward for best picture would be an incentive to get people to come out and connect with their community. It’s a great way to see what kind of artistic talent you have right in your own town.

It brings life, color and variety to the downtown and creates a sense that this community has fun and exciting things happening.

Other small steps to creating an inviting town or downtown district can be developing places that invite you to sit in your downtown area, hosting a community event, starting a community garden in your area, having a sidewalk café downtown, or, as simple as, painting your crosswalks. The creative ideas your community comes up with will strengthen the connection between people and places they share. It is the practice of creating or enhancing a community’s assets to improve its overall attractiveness and livability.

In turn, creating an inviting place to share so you can connect with others. Placemaking is about creating a place where people want to come to live, work, play, and learn. Communities are awakening to the importance of ‘place’ in economic development. They are planning for a future that recognizes the critical importance of quality of life to attracting talent, entrepreneurship, and encouraging local businesses. Competing for success in a global marketplace means creating places where workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses want to locate, invest, and expand. A community without place amenities will have a difficult time attracting and retaining talented workers and entrepreneurs, or being attractive to business.

ATTENTION!!

BOARD MEMBERS NEEDED The City of Baker has two openings for the Board of Adjustment and the Airport Board representative.

If you are interested in serving on either of these boards, please contact Kevin Dukart, Zoning Administrator at 406-778-2692 or Mary Grube at 406-778-8111.

An email may be sent to grubem@falloncounty.net.

Area code must be dialed for all calls in Montana starting Oct. 24, 2021.

On July 16, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) approved the designation of 988 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit abbreviated code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

The 988 hotline will provide a phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors.

Some area codes, like the 406 area code in Montana, currently allow 7-digit dialing to complete a local phone call. As a result of FCC Order 20-100, area codes that allow 7-digit dialing and already have the 988 prefix assigned as a working number must move to mandatory 10-digit dialing (406 area code plus the 7-digit phone number) for local calls by Oct. 24, 2021.

Montana is one of 37 states and 83 area codes that will be impacted.

The North American Numbering Plan Administrator has worked with industry providers to develop an implementation plan for impacted area codes to transition to 10-digit dialing. Beginning April 24, 2021, customers should use 10-digit dialing to complete a telephone call. During this period, a call attempted with 7-digit dialing will still be completed; however, 10-dig-

it dialing will be permissible and encouraged for practice.

Beginning Oct. 24, 2021, 10-digit dialing will become mandatory. All calls in Montana, including local calls, will not be completed unless the 406 area code is dialed with the 7-digit telephone number.

In addition to manual dialing on a telephone, all services that use automated dialing equipment will be impacted and will need to be programmed to include 10-digit dialing. This includes, but is not limited to: fire alarm systems, security systems, life-saving systems, medical monitoring devices, mobile/wireless contact lists, call forward settings, and all other automated dialing systems.

Existing numbers will not change (other than requiring the area code for dialing), and what is currently considered a local call will remain local regardless of the number of digits dialed. Three-digit dialing services, such as the 911 emergency number, will continue to work as a three-digit number with no need to dial an area code.

The 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will be available beginning July 16, 2022. Prior to that date, customers may continue to use 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) to reach the Lifeline for suicide prevention and emergency mental health counseling.

Fallon County Times

Villa Happenings

Zooming

By Daris Howard

The world of Zoom is interesting. Being in education, I have had a fair amount of training on Zoom. Some of that training has centered around what happens if someone hacks or bombs your Zoom session. I was grateful a couple of weeks ago for that training.

It’s hard to believe that someone, or a group of people, can find great joy in creating havoc.

I had heard of Zoom bombing, but it was hard to envision it.

But my cousin asked me to be the technical person for an online book group meeting. We were only about a half-hour into the discussion when we were bombed.

It was not just one person.

It was a coordinated attack by many people. As soon as I removed someone, they would come back in with a different account. I locked down the session and removed people as fast as I could. It was probably only a couple of minutes, but it seemed like it was twenty. All the training in the world doesn’t quite compare to the real thing when your session is under attack. I guess it’s kind of like the difference between boot camp and actual battle in a minimal way.

But on the lighter side of Zoom sessions, I have had some funny things happen that others might have experienced as well. I thought I’d share some of them.

The standard protocol for students is to keep their microphone off unless they are speaking. Most of the time, a student will hold the spacebar as they talk. When they release it, their microphone goes back to mute.

If a student wants to speak for quite a while, they will hit the unmute button. But then they must remember to mute their mic when they finish.

One day, I had a student who was asking about a problem from the homework. Since he and I were discussing it back and forth, he had unmuted his microphone. When we finished with his question, he forgot to hit mute again. At that point, he turned, and though you couldn’t see anyone else, you could tell he was speaking to a child. He said, “I’m sorry. Daddy is really busy right now. You will have to wipe your own bummy.”

In one class session, one young lady talked on her phone the whole time. That class was small enough so she showed on everyone’s screen. A person can shut off their video, but apparently she didn’t think to do that.

In Zoom, a teacher can have

breakout rooms for the students to go into. There the students can discuss the assigned topic. After a given amount of time, the teacher can close the rooms, bringing everyone back together to go over what they discussed. I will often do this, then join each room briefly to see how it was going. When the students or the teacher go into a breakout room, their microphones automatically unmute.

In joining one room just after opening them, one girl turned to a roommate and said, “I can’t go with you right now. I have to work with these dumb people in this stupid class.” After she turned back to her computer, another girl said, “So, us dumb people are ready to start the discussion, are you?”

One person was munching chips and slurping pop in one class, apparently unaware her mic was on. A few people asked her to mute her mic, but she couldn’t hear them. Luckily, I was able to do it reasonably fast.

I have had students fall asleep and snore, probably with their hand on the space bar so they pressed down on it as they fell asleep. The problem was I could mute them, but the space bar immediately unmuted them.

We eventually got them awake.

I have also had roommates of my students walk in the background less than fully clothed.

One of my favorites was a girl who was fishing out on a lake. She had set her computer or phone up on a rock where she could watch and listen to the class discussion while she fished. She even pulled in a fish or two during the class period, not realizing her video was on.

I think the class was more interested in her activities than in my class. That was probably because the rest of us wished we could be fishing, too.

Superior Care Villa would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

December 18, 2020

9

“Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle!”

Let’s come together to support our future!

Join us to help support our schools as we continue to navigate COVID-19 and the challenges it brings to faculty, staff, and students.

Montana School Services Foundation (MSSF) located in Helena, Montana, administers the Montana Unified School Trust (MUST), a health benefits provider for Montana’s public school staff. With COVID-19, our public schools face unprecedented challenges this school year.

As the Big Sky Country - Montana has the nation’s largest number of rural, “one room” schoolhouses, with 39% of 823 schools having less than 50 students. Public school funding is tied to enrollment and size.

Working with schools daily, we know the challenges faced in delivering education in a safe space. A survey of member districts revealed items are still needed, ranging from water bottles, remote learning supplies, and cleaning/disinfecting products to thermometers and facemasks.

Fallon County

Times

For your Printing Needs

406-778-3344

The CDC says that social interaction at school among children in grades PK-12 is particularly important for the development of language, communication, social, emotional, and interpersonal skills. “We want to partner with our communities to do everything we can to help our kids and staff stay healthy and safe while navigating COVID-19,” Andy Holmlund, MSSF-MUST, CEO. We are reaching out to Montana’s communities to collaborate in a meaningful way to make an immediate, positive difference for Montana’s youth and public schools. Participation can be in the form of a one-time tax-deductible monetary donation to purchase needed items, donation of needed items or sponsorship of larger items like portable misters or touchless thermometers. All donations will go directly to Montana’s public schools. For more information visit mustbenefits.org.

10

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

THE SPIRIT IS BUILDING!

Deck your halls this season with

J & M Lumber!

From select grade building materials to fashionable finishing touches, we have what you need.

We will CLOSE at 4 p.m.

Christmas Eve CLOSED Christmas Day OPEN at 10 a.m. Dec. 26

A Gift Certificate from

We encourage everyone to cherish the time spent with their families this holiday season and always!

is a great idea for the handyman in your family.

CHICKEN, BACON, JALAPENO

J & M Lumber!

HOURS: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

“DOING BUSINESS THE OLD FASHIONED WAY.”

December Pizza of the Month

Merry Me M e r r y Ch Christmas!

C hristmas!

Heiser’s Bar & Casino The Best Little Casino Anywhere!

Orders To Go • 406-778-2001 Baker, MT

Good Food + Good Friends =

A GOOD TIME

www.bakerfurnitureandappliances.com

Special Financing Available

LARGE SELECTION OF GIFT CARDS DINING • ONLINE • RELOADABLE

Thanks for stopping here, We enjoy serving you cheer.

Stop and see us - stay awhile Your visit always makes us smile!

Happy Holidays to ALL! Kelly, Brenda & The Crew

Gift Certificates Available for the hard-to-buy-for person.

Thee Garage 406-778-2065 • Baker, MT

holiday sweets & treats A GREAT IDEA FOR THE

HARD-TO-BUY-FOR PERSON!

CARDS • CANDY • CHEESE WINE • CHAMPAGNE CANDLES • PARTY TRAYS GIFTS

Buy one regular price piece of furniture or accessory and get half off the second one of equal or lesser value.

See store for details.

Please Allow 24 hours for Special order items.

HOLIDAY HOURS:

Christmas Eve • 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Christmas Day • Closed New Year’s Eve • 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

New Years’ Day • 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

www.bakerfurnitureandappliances.com

TIME TI ME TO COLOR Kids’ Christmas Coloring Contest

Ages 0-4 • 5-7 • 8 - 10 The winner in each age group will receive

HOLIDAY BUCKS

which can be redeemed at any of the participating businesses.

Coloring Contest Rules

1. Employees of the Fallon County Times and their immediate family are not eligible to win.

2. All entries must be received at our office by noon, Monday, Dec. 21.

3. Winners will be announced in Dec. 25 issue of the Fallon County Times.

4. All entries become property of this newspaper and can be printed accordingly.

Drop off entries at: Fallon County Times, 115 South Main PO Box 679, Baker, MT 59313

NAME:___________________________________________________________ AGE:______________ ADDRESS:____________________________________________________________________________ CITY:_____________________________________STATE:____________________ZIP:_____________ PARENTS’ NAME:___________________________________________PHONE:___________________

Christmas Worship Guide

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

11

Your guide to celebrating the reason for the season

American Lutheran Church • Baker, MT

Ismay Community Church

2:00 p.m. ~

Sunday, Dec. 20

Thursday, Dec. 24 Youth & Family Service

6:00 p.m. ~

Traditional Service

9:00 p.m. ~

Traditional Service

Pastor Scott Kiehn

Peace Lutheran Church • Plevna, MT

Thursday, Dec. 24

7:30 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Worship Service Pastor Scott Kiehn

St. Elizabeth Lutheran Chuch • Ekalaka, MT

Thursday, Dec. 24 4:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Pastor Scott Kiehn

• Ismay, MT

11:00 a.m. ~ Christmas Service Pastor Ed Smith

First Baptist Church • Baker, MT

Sunday, Dec. 20 11:00 a.m. ~ Christmas Service Pastor Levi Durfey

Emmanuel Free Plevna First Evangelical Baptist Church • Plevna, MT Church Thursday, Dec. 24 • Plevna, MT

Changed for Life Church • Baker Senior Citizen Center

Sunday, Dec. 20

Thursday, Dec. 24

Pastor Toby Arnold

Friday, Dec. 25

Lakeview Baptist Church • Baker, MT

Sunday, Dec. 20 10:00 a.m. ~ Sunday School 11:00 a.m. ~ Worship Service

Thursday, Dec. 24

Pastor Eric Botzet

Pastor Josh McLachlan

Pastor Mike Davis

Assembly of God Church

Medicine Rocks Church

Thursday, Dec. 24

10:15 ~ Coffee Time 11:00 a.m. ~ Christmas Service “Christmas Alive” Pastor Jim Biswell

11:00 a.m. ~ Service

Thursday, Dec. 24 6:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Program

• Baker, MT

6:00 p.m. ~ Special Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Pastor Rod Kilsdonk Youth Pastor Joe Epley

i T

www.plevnabaptistchurch.org

Sunday, Dec. 20

EVERYONE WELCOME!

• Baker, MT

10:00 a.m. ~ Come and Celebrate the Joy of Christmas

6:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Service 6:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Program Streamed Online at

Sunday, Dec. 20

St. John’s Catholic Church

6:00 p.m. ~ Candle Light Service

Baker Community Church • Baker, MT

Thursday, Dec. 24

7:00 p.m.~ Christmas Eve Service

7:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Eve Mass 9:00 a.m. ~ Christmas Mass

Thursday, Dec. 31

6:00 p.m. ~ New Year’s Eve Mass

Friday, Jan. 1

9:00 a.m. ~ New Year’s Mass

~~~~~~~~~~~

St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church • Ekalaka, MT

Thursday, Dec. 24

4:00 p.m. ~ Christmas Vigil Mass

Friday, Dec. 25 9:00 a.m ~ Christmas Mass Father Philip Chinnappan

Please join us this Christmas as we celebrate the birth of Christ and sing praise to His name.

on yo u r u g l t u p o t ie me Christmas Sweater Mrs. Benterʻs 5th Grade Class

st

12

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

What will Santa do after he is done delivering the gifts to all the children aroung the world on Christmas Eve? Mrs. Chester - 2nd Grade

He will watch TV and take a nap for 12 hours.

Aurora Bachelor Santa will start to mack noow toys.

Jonah Schell He goes back to the North pole and sleeps and eats cookiys.

By Dylan Dyke I think after Delivering All night Santa clas is going to rest antel the next christmas.

EJ Lewis I think santa would do is take a trip to howiy and his raindeer would have a bocket of carets

and his elfs get a brake to.

Teigan Barnett He delivered presints and then Santa goes home and goes to sleep.

Breanna Giggey He will read a book then go to sleap.

Tate Tew He will take a bath and a nap wen He gets home.

Matthew Losing When Santa is done delivering presents I think he will get more wraping paper for next year.

Ashley Stanhope

I think that when he gets home from giving presinst to kids he will take a nap and listen to Christmas carls.

Madison Taylor santa will drink hot cocoa.

Ryland Mills I think he will go home to the north pole and eat some vegys becase he ate all the cookis and then he will watch The Grinch.

Statler Medearis I think he whil go to make moor toys or go to sleep.

Treylan Harbaugh He probably goes home and falls asleep.

Livia Varner He will go to sleep.

Blake Enos He will eat some cookies and drink milk and have a vecashon.

Landry Shepherd He well take a nap and he well look at the knoty and nice list.

Dakota Counsell He will go to bed.

Colter Huft He will make prezints for knew where.

Lakaci Selle

Wishing You a Beautiful Season With our thanks for your understanding and support this year, we wish you a holiday that glitters with every happiness!

ALL 4 U Flowers 406-778-2279

101 2nd St SW | Baker MT, 59313 406-778-3201

Our Express Wishes for a Wonderful Holiday Season Another Christmas is coming around the bend, so we’d like to slow down and share our thanks and best wishes with our valued friends. This past year has brought many bumps in the road for all of us, but it has also made us especially grateful for the friends, family and loved ones who make every day precious. We’re grateful to you for staying on board with us through the steep challenges of 2020. We couldn’t keep on track without the loyal support of this community and all of the fine folks who make it so special.

As we approach a new year, we hope it brings health, happiness, peace, love and good fortune to you and everyone you hold dear. Please accept our sincere best wishes for a very merry Christmas and a healthy, happy holiday season!

Plevna Schools

Greetings & Thanks Another Christmas is on the way, and it wouldn’t be complete without good friends and neighbors like all of you. Thank you for making us feel so at home here, and for your steady support through an uncertain year.

We hope your Christmas season is stuffed with all of the little things –and the big things too – that make this time of year so special.

Best Wishes and Happy Holidays!

Fallon County Employees

A Homegrown Holiday Wish To all of our good friends and customers here in town, we hope happiness, peace and good fortune are in full bloom for you all season!

We Wish You √ Love √ Happiness √ Laughter √ Health √ Good Luck √ Peace √ Good Fortune √ Contentment √ Inspiration √ Friendship Thank you for giving us a long list of reasons to celebrate this year. We owe our happiness to friends and customers like all of you, and we wish you all the best.

More than words can say, we appreciate your business!

SPIRITS PLUS

406-778-3623 Follow us on Facebook

2020 hours: 10 - 7 Mon. - Sat. 2021 hours: 10 - 6 Mon. - Sat.

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

19

Who will pull the sleigh now!?

Brightest Wishes

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays Thank you for making us feel so welcome here. We can’t think of anywhere else we’d rather be at Christmastime and all year. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Here’s hoping you extract every bit of joy from this magical and happy season!

Thanks for giving us so many reasons to smile.

Friends and patients like you mean the world to us.

Dr. James Campbell, D.D.S.

Fallon County Veterinary Service, PC

406-778-5431

Teresa, Tina, & Nikki

Liam, Nathan, Don, Marvel & Kallie

All Is Calm.

All Is Bright.

May the holiday season bring peace, joy and contentment to your heart.

With our thanks,

Many Thanks

& Merry Wishes

Hope Your Christmas Is the Height of Happiness We’re grateful to have such an uplifting group of friends and customers by our side at the holidays and all year. Thank you for making our progress possible!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Batterman Law Office 12 E Montana Ave. Baker, MT 59313 406-778-3006 battermanlawoffice.com

Baker, MT

www.bakercenex.com

May this festive season lift your spirits with enough joy to carry you through the new year!

Baker Public Schools

20

December 18, 2020

Fallon County Times

Mrs. Tunby - 1st Grade Dear Santa, Can I have a trampoline plees. How is Rudolph dooing? It is dooing good in Baker.

Love Leightyn Anderson Dear Santa, I want a OMG doll and sum barbies. Can you bring me a havoboard. Hao are you doeing today?

Love Adasa Custer Dear Santa, Can you brein a doll to my home. Can you brein a soaprheroe. Can I have a lot of pencils.

Love Jeannine Losing Dear Santa, Can you bring me an excavator and a toy semi truck. Thank you Santa.

Love Hayden Halmans Dear Santa, I want a fornit toy. I want a electric scooter.

How are you doin today?

Love Camryn Kidd Dear Santa, I want a electric scooter. I want a cowboy hat.

I want a trampoline. How are you doing? How are your rander and your elvs?

Love Carson Bartholomew Dear Santa, I am good. Are you good? Thank you for the stuf frum last year Santa. I love bracelets.

Love Hope Heiser Dear Santa I would like a turtle. I want a trampoline. I want a electric scooter. I want a PS5.

Thank you Pryar Packineau

Dear Santa, I’ve been good this year can you bring me a tablet with minecraft. How is Comet doing may I also have a watch with Mariro.

Love Davin Skogen Dear Santa, I want a Pikachu game and some candy canes.

Be safe and be careful.

Love Mitchell Gray Dear Santa, I wish that you cood git a remote control car for me. I want a thousand vebucks. Stay safe love Warren Rieger Dear Santa, I want an electric scooter for Christmas. I now sum of your ranedeer like Dashr but haw are your ranedeer doowing.

Love Carter Kendall Dear Santa, for Christmas I want the video game Stormworks Build and Rescue.

Love Henry Griffith Dear Santa, for Christmas I want a princess peach car and a cuddly soft cozy bear.

Love Kelsey Stanhope Dear Santa, My name is Andrew and for Christmas I would like treats, a amazing car, legos, and Fortnite figurines. love Andrew Adams

Mrs. Wang - 3rd Grade Dear Santa, I want a pellet gun for Christmas and pellets. Make sure it is not a pistol.

Mason Brown Dear Santa, I want a fainting goat for Christmas. And I want a scooter for a Christmas present and a good scooter please.

Isaiah Burns Dear Santa, This year I would like LOL Super Surprise Remix. I’ll make really good cookies for you. Thank you.

Love Blakely LaCroix Dear Santa, Could I have a big drawing thing. And if not that, could I have a big Lego set. And at school we are dressed up as Rudolph.

Justice Croy Dear Santa, Can I get a VR Headset and remotes?

Max Wyrick Dear Santa, This year I want 1,000 Nerf guns and 1 XBox. And I will leave cookies on a plate and carrots for the reindeer. Have a very Merry Christmas.

Cyler Crawford Dear Santa, This year I would like happiness and make sure that you will make it home safely.

Wade Halmans Dear Santa, Santa your elf got stuck in my dad’s gun case, so I’m assuming you are not real. But you could be. But enough about the elf, I would like a Nintendo Switch, or a Nerf gun that can

shoot 4 bullets at a time.

From Kaine Kendall Dear Santa, This year is it ok if you get me a hamster? I’ve been reading things about a hamster so I know how to take care of one.

I will leave out cookies and gummy bears and carrots for the reindeer. Thank you, Love Kinley Milller Dear Santa, May all the kids to have a nice present. I would like a Mr. Beast shirt for Christmas. I have been very good. Can I also have a Nerf Mega Strike, 10GX Pokemon, 10 Gold Pokemon.

Your friend Maddox Moser Dear Santa Clause, This Christmas I would like an LOL doll house if I get something else, I will not cry.

I bet I will like it and maybe 1 LOL doll, maybe a baby one and maybe a LOL doll pet, and maybe a LOL doll girl.

Love Kael Rae Gorder Dear Santa, For Christmas this year I would like a black and blue football, and an iPod and a phone. Or a hoverboard, you don’t have to get me all of these, but it would be really nice if you would get me one of them. I thought I was good this year but I do get in a lot of fights with my little brother.

Have safe travels, Locklyn Moore Dear Santa, This year I would like a .22 Golden Boy lever action and a .22 pistol and a basketball for Christmas. I will leave some cookies and milk.

From Tryppton James Sander Dear Santa, This year my baby brother

learned how to crawl. I don’t want anything for Christmas but I do want something for my mom, but could you maybe make her a lock box filled of all her memories.

And could you maybe make a necklace for my sister?

Love Ashlynn Desrocher Dear Santa, This year I have tried to be nice. I would like a very good thing for Christmas. This year I will make sugar cookies for you and leave out reindeer food for your reindeer. They will be super healthy for you next year.

Love Ericka Schell Dear Santa, This year for Christmas I would like some fun coloring paper and crayons. Santa I’ve tried to be good. Santa I will leave a treat for you and milk.

Santa and may I have 2 LOL Surprise balls. I hope you have a safe way here and home.

Love Saige Knipp Dear Santa, Please can I have walkie talkies, please? Thank you very much.

Aubryn Schwartz Dear Santa, I would like 3 things. I am not sure if my mom would get me these things but I will like a cool piggy bank and a remote control car that can drive up walls also a model airplane that you can build and a pellet gun that is a pistol.

By Taylor Ray Tate

Christmas in the Park

Dear Santa, I want to tell you I am a super hero! I was good. I want a

swimming pool.

Ryler Dear Santa, I would like to have make up.

Love Sierra Dear Santa Can I please have a trampoline for Christmas? from, Leightyn Dear Santa, I will like Iphone I have been good from Alan Dear Santa, I would like another American Girl doll named Sayge. a Josi my ridable unicorn. I would like Uno Attack. You are best Santa from Haddie Dear Santa, I would Like a New American Girl doll!

Bistol Dear Santa, I want a stuffed Tiger and a mermaid.

Dear Santa, I would like robot toys for Christmas. I also want a kitty cat and a balloon.

Bryant Dear Santa, for Christmas I want a LOL omg doll I hope I can have this.

Ava Dear Santa, I want a LOL omg dolls and to see my horse.

Adasa Dear Santa, I allways wanted a unicorn music box, and a stuffed candy cane. Merry Christmas! from, Jaelle

EXTRA, EXTRA

Thanks & Merry Wishes

T

o our readers and community, we want to express our deep gratitude for your essential support through the events of 2020.

We’re committed to keeping you connected and informed, and we appreciate your continued trust in us.

We hope you have a healthy and happy holiday season, and we wish you all the best in the new year!

Tammy, Tina, Megan & Brad

From Our Home to Yours, Merry Christmas!

Festive lights, fragrant trees, freshly baked cookies, brightly wrapped packages, and beloved family and friends to share the season… May the best of Christmastime be yours!

It brings us so much joy to wish you a happy holiday, and thank you for your trust in us.

Fallon County

TIMES BAKER, MONTANA

406-778-3344 • fctimes@midrivers.com

14 S. Main • Baker, MT • 406-778-3618 11 1st Ave. SE • Bowman, ND • 701-523-3737 bakerfurnitureandappliances.com