Fct 1 2 15

VOLUME 99

ISSUE 1

TIMES

FALLON County

fctimes@midrivers.com 406-778-3344

BAKER, MONTANA 59313

$1.00

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015

Batterman appointed Baker’s City Attorney “The appointment is tremendous,” Batterman said.

By Lori Kesinger The Baker City Council announced the appointment of Rich Batterman as the new City Attorney. Batterman has served as the County Attorney since 2000 and begins his service for the City of Baker with the onset of the new year.

“The Council feels great about his appointment. He has experience in many facets that relate to government and has done a great job in the court room,” Mayor Clayton Hornung said.

“We feel fortunate he applied for the position of City Attorney to provide leadership in the realm of law.”

Batterman received his B.A. from Hamline University, St. Paul, MN and his J.D. from Vermont Law School. He was admitted to the Montana State Bar in 1998 and spent almost six years as an associate attorney in general practice. In 2004, he established Batterman Law Offices located in Baker and Glendive with emphasis on oil and gas, probate, estate planning, business planning, some family law, and general litigation. Batterman’s primary specialities are in school law, serving as general coun-

sel to the Montana Rural Education Consortium (an organization of B and C class schools across Montana), and government law.

“The appointment is tremendous. I have lived here 14 years and know everyone. I look forward to working with the City of Baker as they are a great group of dedicated people. I hope to help keep the City moving forward and developing,” Batterman said.

The City Attorney is appointed by the City Council as the chief legal advisor to the mayor, City Council, and all city departments for Baker.

Resolutions worth keeping

Elected officials sworn-in were: Back row (l-r) Brenda Wood, Nicole Benefiel, Trenton Harbaugh and Darcy Pankratz. Front: Barbara Ketterling and Deb Ranum

County officials sworn-in The county’s newest and returning set of officials have been sworn in. Holders of county-wide offices converged in the Fallon County Courthouse lobby Dec. 31 for the ceremony. With family, supporters and staff in attendance, they took the oath of office led by Commissioner Steve Baldwin.

Most of the offices were retained by incumbents but some officials were taking the oath for the first time. Those sworn into office included: Deb Ranum, Commissioner District 1; Darcy L. Pankratz, County Attorney; Nicole M. Benefiel, Justice of the Peace; Brenda J. Wood, Clerk and Recorder/Supt. of Schools; Trenton Harbaugh, Sheriff/Coroner; and Barbara E. Ketterling, Treasurer/Assessor.

Also sworn-in were Debbie Wyrick, Deputy Clerk and Recorder/Supt. of Schools; Julie Post, Deputy Treasurer/Assessor; and Barbara A. Klang, Deputy Clerk of District Court.

By Lori Kesinger A new year has way of inspiring people to “turn over a new leaf” and “wipe the slate clean”. Individuals make promises to themselves. Promises to lose weight, quit smoking, learn something new, eat healthy, get out of debt, spend more time with family, travel to new places, be less stressed, get organized and so on.

According to the University of Scranton Journal of Clinical Psychology, only eight percent of people are successful in achieving their resolutions.

Do people just lack self-will or are they lazy? Psychology professor Peter Herman and his colleagues have identified what they call the "false hope syndrome," which means an individual’s resolution is significantly unrealistic and out of alignment with their internal view of themselves.

The other aspect of failed resolutions lies in cause and effect thought processes. A person may think if they lose weight, or reduce debts, or exercise more, their entire life will change, and when it doesn't, they get discouraged and revert back to old behaviors.

We can conclude resolutions are simply an attempt to change oneself. What if the focus was placed on others?

Would people be more successful in achieving their resolutions if they weren’t just thinking about themselves?

Here are some selfless resolutions to consider: • “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about,” Wendy Mass noted. People tend to forget kindness shown to another person makes the world a better place.

• Give of yourself not just your money. Take the time and effort to help someone, share your gifts and talents, or volunteer. The old adage it is better to give than to receive still rings true.

• Do not forget to be patient when dealing others. People will not always respond when or how you want them to.

• Be determined to have deliberate joy and change the atmosphere around you. Life is an attitude.

• Build others up instead of tearing them down. “Whenever you are about to find fault with someone, ask yourself the following question: What fault of mine most nearly resembles the one I am about to criticize?” Marcus Aurelius wrote.

• Do not stir up others to arguments and vain conflicts. Be a peacemaker.

• Be humble and do not exalt yourself. No one wants to know a know-it-all.

SEE RESOLUTIONS, PAGE 4

Year End Review of 2014 . . .

January 3 -- Janet Clocksene Enos is featured in this issue. She turned 90 years old in April. . . December 9, 2013, Mid-Rivers Communications launched the first 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) wireless data coverage available in 12 communities across the eastern half of Montana. With data speeds 10 to 15 times faster than 3G wireless data, 4G LTE supports a wide range of applications. . . Low temperature Dec. 23 was -30 degrees and high temperature Dec. 27 was 44 degrees. . . Dr. Ken Zuroff will be closing his Baker office Jan. 15. . . . Five generation picture includes Florence Wiseman holding her great-great-grandson Hunter Wayne Swyres, along with his greatgrandfather Roy Ferrel, grandmother Joyce Ferrel Straub, and mother Jasi Johnson Swyres.

Baker, MT 406-778-2427

to halt construction of the pipeline. It is supposed to be a replacement line and landowners argue it is not a replacement, but a new line. . . High temperature Dec. 31 was 45 degrees and low Jan. 6 was -22. . . Relay for Life organizational meeting will be held Jan. 21.

January 17 -- Jeri Thomas, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), has joined the staff at Fallon Medical Complex in Baker. Thomas is originally from West Virginia, and has worked the past 13 years in southeastern Ohio. She is married to Fred Thomas and they have three grown children. . . First place team in the Fallon County Coyote Calling Contest and Hunt held Jan. 10-12 was the team of Rusty Knuths, Guy Stickney and Doug Stickney. Second place team consisted of Tyson Olsen and Dustin Butler; third place - Tim Delph and

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Buzz Butler; and fourth place went to Marc and John Rieger. . . Several areas of Baker Lake are open and the Fallon County Commissioners are asking the public to refrain from using the lake until ice conditions improve. .

A medical benefit and concert will be held Jan. 19 for Roy and Melissa Rost and family. He has had three back surgeries and is unable to work. . . High temperature Jan. 11 was 47 degrees. . . Baker High speech and drama team will be at the divisional meet Jan. 25 in Shepherd.

January 24 -- City of Baker is in the process of amending ordinance 10.44.090 Interference with street cleaning. Such ordinance is applied for the purpose of street cleaning and maintenance on a daily basis at the discretion of the City of Baker. . . . . State officials report that SEE YEAR END REVIEW, PAGE 5

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Russell’s Clothing

January 10 -- One new face was among the members sworn in at the beginning of the Council meeting Jan. 6. Rick Schell is the newcomer to the Council. . . Two Montana Lottery tickets were purchased in December at Reynolds Market in Baker and have yet to be claimed. One of the pre-Montana Millionaire tickets for $10,000 was purchased at Reynolds Market and has not been claimed. A Dec. 25 Hot Lotto drawing also provided a winning ticket at Reynolds and has not been claimed. . . Complaints continue to mount against the True companies with respect to a 16 inch pipeline set to be part of a network to transport oil produced from the Bakken formation in North Dakota to facilities in Kansas and Oklahoma. A group of Carter County landowners filed suit Nov. 22 asking the court

2 - FALLON COUNTY TIMES

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015

FILES OF THE TIMES 10 YEARS AGO Friday, January 7, 2005 -Picture: Jerrie Newell, Clerk of District Court, and Dennis Afrank, County Commissioner, were sworn into office Dec. 30. Newell will be serving her second full four-year term as clerk. Afrank will be serving his first term as Fallon County Commissioner. . .

The SMART economic development group has hired Paul Green of Hardin as their director. SMART has also hired Mona Cantalupo as Green’s assistant. . . After 36 hours of drilling on the city natural gas well Dec. 18 and 19, drilling was completed in the Eagle formation at a depth of 2,000 feet. . . Babe Billingsley will celebrate her 90th birthday Jan.14; George Benner will celebrate his 80th birthday Jan. 6. . . Quincy Slagter is Reynolds January Employee of the Month. .

Mary Ann Hecker was the winner of the Christmas dinner presented in a $50 Reynolds gift certificate. . .

John Robert and Wilma Rusley will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary Jan. 9. . . New members on the SMART board are Rod Morris and Desiree Bertsch. Incumbent Norton Walker was re-elected. Candy Loehding from Ekalaka will fill the remaining two years of Llane Carroll’s term on the board. . . Brenda Wood, Clerk and Recorder for Fallon County, received a plaque from Secretary of State Bob Brown officially recognizing Fallon County’s achievement of being in the top ten Montana counties with the highest voter turnout in the recent election.

20 YEARS AGO Thursday, January 5, 1995-- Jaycees nominate Dave Hayden for Outstanding Young Farmer. Dave, his wife Deanna and their three children Chase, Maria and Anita farm south of Baker. They also raise cattle, sheep, and participate in a trucking business. . . The Knights of Columbus annual holiday basketball tournament was held Dec. 28-30. Burdick Trucking defeated Aisles of Style by two points, 72-70, to take the championship title.

Championship team members included Calvin Dean, Cory Begger, Damian Hughes, Quentin Burdick, Jeff Bertelsen, Shay Beyer, and Rob Mathison. . . A farewell party for Fred and Dixie Berzel will be held Jan. 8 at the Plevna Bar. . . Jay Quenzer is the Cook of the Month. . . The Community Church hosted a Christmas dinner at Jane’s Home Cookin’ for people who would be alone. Twentyfour people sat down to a nice Christmas dinner.

Allan and Ruth Wang of Baker, is among approximately 35 football players selected to represent the Eastern Team in the annual East-West Shrine Game to be held in Great Falls in August. . . . The senior class, under the direction of Carole Bettenhausen, will present their class play, “Flowers for Algernon”, Jan. 8. Senior class members who will appear in the play are Jill Jensen, Kevin Wike, Susan Zachmann, Stephanie Huether, Jon Neumann, Jameyne Mayo, Susan Duneman, David Delcamp, Maria Prokop, Tammy Gamrath, Scott Carver, Vicki Uttke, Tanya Dilworth, and Janell Losing. Tom and Bill Price are in charge of the sound, and Tim O’Connor, Robert Burns and Karl Mueller will handle the lights. . . Lakeview Country Club will hold their annual meeting Jan. 6 in their newly completed clubhouse.

40 YEARS AGO Thursday, January 2, 1975 -- Mr. and Mrs. Otto Hoenke were the honored guests at an open house Dec. 29 at the Harold Wiseman residence. . . Christmas Day, as it was starting to get dark, parties unknown shot a three year old black Angus cow with a big game rifle along the right-of-way to Highway 12 five miles west of Plevna.

The cow, belonging to Jim O’Connor and Sons, was discovered the next morning by Jack O’Connor. The cow had been shot and cut in half, hide and all, and the hind quarters taken. . . A charge of deliberate homicide has been filed against Loren Sharbono, Glendive, in connection with the death of his wife, Ellen Darlene Sharbono, 32, whose charred body was found in a car near Highway 16. Both Ellen and Loren were residents of Baker where she was employed at Rexall Drug, and he was self-employed, just recently going into business for himself.

50 YEARS AGO Thursday, December 31, 1964- The seriousness of the livestock situation is illustrated by Gene Hoff, County Agent, who says ranchers in Fallon County plan to feed hay for about 90 days and to date have already fed 45 days and may need to keep it up until April. . . . Emmett Jones of the Chalk Buttes area of Carter County lost 60 percent of his sheep. . . Delmar Fried’s freshmen lost their first contest at Terry, 54-49, in a hard fought battle, Dec. 19. . . Ashley Stanhope of the local Farmers Union Oil Co. reports someone stole truck tires from the station valued at $250 to $300. The theft was witnessed Sunday by Patrolman Dan Eshleman who had 30 YEARS AGO thought they had opened the Thursday, January 3, station to accommodate a cus1985 -- Dean Wang, son of tomer. . . Fallon County

FALLON COUNTY TIMES (USPS 184940)

Ph. 406-778-3344 • Fax: 778-3347 PO Box 679 • Baker, Montana 59313-0679 Published every Friday in Baker, Montana Darlene Hornung.......................Publisher/Manager Susan Newell..............................................Typesetter Tammy O'Donnell .....................................Sales Lori Kesinger.............................................Reporter Michael Castleberry..................................Graphics 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: $39 in trade area (593 & 586 zip codes) $44 in Montana $54 outside Montana

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 e-mail: fctimes@midrivers.com • www.FallonCountyExtra.com

USDA Disaster Committee has requested approval of an emergency livestock feed grain program for Fallon County.

60 YEARS AGO Thursday, January 6, 1955 -- County officials began new terms of office Monday by posting surety bonds with County Clerk and Recorder R.R. Stevens. . .

Two young men were in the Carter County jail at Ekalaka this week charged with arson in the first degree for the burning New Year’s Day of the ranch home of Mr. and Mrs. John Welling, seven miles west of Ekalaka. . . Four cases involving oil leases were passed on by Judge S.D. McKinnon, Miles City, when a verdict in favor of plaintiffs in the action, Jean Theodore Braun, Forrest Duffield, John Land, and George Jenner vs.

Monoco Oil Co. Corp; Gus Crawford, George Randash and his wife, Pearl Randash, were joined as defendant parties because there was on record assignment of royalty from the lessee to them.

70 YEARS AGO Thursday, January 11, 1945 -- Mrs. Ada Jardee of Mill Iron has a daughter, Lt. Hazel Jardee, an Army nurse stationed in New Guinea; two sons, Pvt. Lawrence Jardee of the Medical Corps, Pacific Theater; and Sgt. Ivan Jardee with the Army on the Italian Front. . . . A call has come to Fallon County for waste paper. A.W. Allen, Scoutmaster, has been asked to take charge of collection. . . A.O. Gullidge is elected president of the Baker Commercial Club. . . Sheriff and Mrs. James Kochel, whose son Reid was declared missing in action, received his air medal for bravery from the war department. . Francis, six year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wasnuk, was killed when he fell out of a truck in which he was riding. . . Andy Spisla presides at meeting of Last Man’s Club at Baker Cafe. . .

Pfc. Clinton Rost, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Rost, was wounded in action in Germany. This is the second time he was wounded. . . Vic North left this week for Lexington, Ill., where he will accept delivery of a new school bus purchased by the school trustees.

80 YEARS AGO Thursday, January 10, 1935 -- Men’s Club elects Judge S. Felt to head club for coming year. Dan Helgeson is vice president and C.L. Duppler, secretary. . . Leon LaCross is attending the annual school board convention in Helena. . . James Owen, Jr. is elected president of Commercial Club. . . Baker wins over Marmarth netmen 22-9 in weekend game.

90 YEARS AGO Thursday, January 8, 1925 -- Attorney William Poole left Sunday for Ekalaka where he will be in partnership with attorney Tracey. .

Henry Stenerson and family moved from Ollie to Baker last week and will reside here for the winter. . . First National Bank of Plevna receives approval of the National Banking Department to move its bank to Baker. Officers at the bank have applied for the name “The Baker National Bank”. W.H. O’Connell of Miles City is president of the organization. . . Tom Molstad had quite an accident last week coming home from Baker. At Hidden Water bridge someone backed into the truck he was driving for Hans Tronstad. They broke the lights but fortunately Tom was not hurt. . .

M.C. Carrington was elected chairman of the board of county commissioners at their first meeting of the year.

Tobacco advertising Tobacco marketing at the point of sale (POS) includes advertising, promotion (price discounts and product giveaways), and product display at any location where tobacco products are sold. POS marketing is sometimes either explicitly exempted or not included in laws banning advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

POS marketing weakens the effectiveness of tobacco control laws, and exposes the population to tobacco industry marketing tactics that are intended to increase the sale and consumption of tobacco products.

Youth are particularly vulnerable to POS. POS marketing makes it harder for smokers to quit.

Tobacco products and advertisements are often placed near candy and children’s items and at children’s eye level, encouraging children to see them as harmless everyday items.

Studies in Brazil and California found that stores visited frequently by adolescents have more tobacco advertising than stores less popular with adolescents.

Higher rates of smoking among youth have been found in schools located in neighborhoods with a higher density of tobacco outlets and retail cigarette advertising. Youth exposed to stores with high levels of tobacco advertising were more likely to believe that tobacco is easier to buy and to overestimate the percentage of peers and adults that smoke than youth who were exposed to stores with no tobacco advertising.

A study conducted in the United States estimated that banning POS advertising and requiring cigarette packs to be kept out of sight could reduce adolescents’ exposure to cigarette brand by as much as 83 percent.

Studies have consistently found significant associations between exposure to POS tobacco advertising, promotions and product displays with

Cards Six players came to play pinochle Dec. 28 at the Baker Senior Citizen Center. There were two tables of three players each. Winners were Jay Gregory - won twice, Carl Hepperle, and Lorraine Meschke.

Pinochle will be played again Sunday, Jan. 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the Senior Center.

Dec 24 37 13 .03 Dec 25 30 19 Dec 26 24 11 trc Dec 27 27 14 Dec 28 25 7 .04 Dec 29 7 -11 trc Dec 30 1 -14 YTD Moisture - 15.15”

smoking initiation, susceptibility to smoking, or intentions to smoke among youth. Adolescents who frequently (i.e., more than twice a week) visit stores where cigarettes are widely advertised are more likely to start smoking than adolescents who visit such stores less frequently.

A study in Norway found that younger respondents were more likely than older people to say that tobacco product displays tempted them to buy cigarettes. The availability of POS promotions increases the likelihood that youth will move from experimentation to regular tobacco use.

An Australian study found that nearly 40 percent of individuals trying to quit smoking experience urges to smoke when they see cigarette advertisements. More than 60 percent impulsively buy cigarettes as a result, and 20 percent avoid stores where they normally buy cigarettes to avoid the temptation.

As you can see from this information, this is not an isolated problem. If you would like more information about how you can help keep big tobacco companies from influencing your kids, email your local tobacco prevention specialist, Julie Russell at jrussell@rangeweb.net.

Baker Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture information is available by calling 406-778-2266

Baker office in the Lake City Shopping Center 406-778-2801 RaeAnn will be in the Baker Office on Fridays, weather permitting

RaeAnn Svedberg, Agent rsvedberg@farmersagent.com ~ www.farmersagent.com/rsvedberg 406- 778- 2801 or 800- 859- 0333 ~ af t er h ou rs 406- 679- 0262

Extension calendar Jan. 1 - Holiday - office closed Jan. 2 - RSVP for Do-It-Herself Living on a Budget Workshop Jan. 5 - Living on a Budget Workshop #1 Jan. 6 - RSVP for Winter Ag Series (Ekalaka and Baker) Jan. 12 - Living on a Budget Workshop #2 Jan. 13 - Winter Ag Series, Ekalaka Jan. 14 - Winter Ag Series, Baker; Fallon County 4-H Livestock Committee meeting Jan. 19 - Holiday - office closed; Living on a Budget Workshop #3

Weather Vane

Baker Agronomy Center Full Service Agro no my 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

Letters to the editor policy 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 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.

Obituary policy 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.

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

We buy sheep and weigh-up horses every Thursday.

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

C & D Yards • Baker, Montana Open between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday. Your cattle will be delivered to Lemmon Livestock on Tuesday evening and will be sold on Wednesday.

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

Wed., Jan. 7: Regular Sale w/All Breeds Calf Sale Wed., Jan. 14: Regular Sale w/All Breeds Calf Sale Featuring Weaned Claves Wed., Jan. 21: Regular Sale w/Special Bred HFR/Stock Cow Sale

Wed., Jan. 28: Regular Sale w/ All Breeds Calf Sale Wed., Feb. 4: Regular Sale w/ All Breeds Calf Sale Featuring REPL HFRS

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 C & D Yards Clint Ehret

Owner/Manager Baker, Montana Baker Field Rep.

605-374-5675 or cell 605-645-2493 406-778-3282 406-772-5522

FALLON COUNTY TIMES

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015

Ralph Koenig Funeral mass for Ralph Koenig, 58, of Baker was held Dec. 31, 2014 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Baker with Father Thomas Tobin officiating. Burial was in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Baker.

A rosary and vigil service was held Dec. 30, at Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker.

Ralph passed away Dec. 24, 2014, at his home with his family at his side.

Ralph Carl Koenig was born Jan. 27, 1956 in Miles City to Edward and Bertha (Huether) Koenig. He joined older brother Dennis and three older sisters, Stella, Beverly and Peggy, at home.

Ralph went home to spend Christmas with Jesus on the morning of Christmas Eve at his home surrounded by his loving family, following a battle for many years with complications from diabetes and heart failure.

Ralph received his schooling for his first eight grades at the O’Donnell Country School, being one of only four total students, all boys in his class. He attended Baker High School for the remaining four years, graduating in 1974. Following graduation, Ralph went to work at Equity Co-op Grain Elevator, working there full time before leasing the family farm from his parents in 1979. After that, Ralph spent his years working on the farm and also worked part time at Equity Co-op Grain Elevator, Baker Livestock Yard, and in the oilfield for his brother-in-law, Richard Griffith.

Aug. 29, 1975, he married his high school sweetheart, Joan Knipp, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Baker. To this union two daughters were born, Kodi in 1976 and Kandis in 1977. In 1979, Ralph and Joan moved from living in Baker to the farm north of Baker where Ralph had been raised. They raised their daughters there and continued to make their home on the farm until his death.

Ralph loved the farm and enjoyed having kids visit and spend time at the farm, especially his two granddaughters who he loved dearly. He always took pleasure in letting kids do things and teaching them things they would have never had the opportunity to do living in town, whether that was branding calves, helping with the pigs, feeding cows, sledding, snowmobiling, or riding four-wheelers. He always fondly remembered the years that his nephew Brett and brother-in-law Pat would take every opportunity to spend time on the farm with him. He almost always had sweet tarts in his shirt pocket that he would share with the nieces and nephews whenever he saw them.

Ralph loved gardening, and especially loved growing roses.

He enjoyed canning and making his own dill pickles and was very proud to teach his son-in-law to can pickles. Family was a very important part of his life, and he enjoyed family gatherings and especially loved having family meals at the farm, gathered around the table his father-in-law made.

Ralph also loved deer hunting and was always waiting until the last week before using his buck tag, knowing there was always going to be a bigger one out there, and he was usually right. In the earlier years, he enjoyed that he was able to go elk hunting with his brother-inlaw, Lyle, and in the later years always looked forward to the week that friends Bud, Dave, and Tom would come from Pennsylvania to spend hunting with him. He was also a coin collector and loved collecting Morgan dollars, Liberty half dollars, and Silver Eagles.

Ralph was proud to share that interest also with his son-in-

law, Mike. He could spot a wheat penny lying on the ground from a mile away.

Traditions were an important part of Ralph’s life. One tradition that was important to him was making sausage every year. Every fall, he made sausage for many family members, using the same recipe of measuring by the handfuls that his dad used. He passed that same tradition down to his daughters and granddaughters.

While Ralph’s health was good, he served on the board of directors for Baker Livestock Auction, Farmers Union Oil Company, and the school board for Baker High School.

Ralph became a diabetic in 1973, suffering from many complications throughout the years. One of which was kidney failure. After being on dialysis for three and one-half years, on Nov. 4, 1999, when hope was thin, God reached down and gave Ralph his life back again in the form of a kidney/pancreas transplant. He received this gift of life through a very generous donation from the Kim Miller family of Slayton, Minn. Ralph’s family can never thank the Kim Miller family enough for giving us 15 extra years with him.

The years we had with Ralph were not enough, but we thank God for the years He did give us with Ralph, and especially the last 15 bonus years. Ralph will be missed by many and we are truly blessed to have him in our lives.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Joan; daughters, Kodi Koenig and fiance Randy Wolfgram of Belfield, N.D., and Kandis (Michael) Albertson of Billings; two granddaughters, Taylor Koenig of Dickinson, N.D. and Karlee Albertson of Billings; one brother, Dennis (Faye) Koenig; sisters, Stella (Bill) Bigger and Peggy (Kenny) Meccage; his very special aunt, Erna O’Donnell.

He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Phyllis Knipp; all of Joan’s siblings and their spouses, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Bertha; infant sister, Gaile Koenig; sister Beverly Koenig; nephew and niece, Dustin and Kandi Koenig; father-in-law, Everett Knipp; nephew, Isaac Knipp; and great-nephew, Reiker Logan.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuner-

Marjorie Sonsalla

Gayle Harpster

A funeral mass for Marjorie Sonsalla, 93, of Marmarth, N.D. was held Dec. 23, 2014 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marmarth with Father David Morman celebrating.

Burial was in Riverside Cemetery.

A rosary and vigil service was held Dec. 17 at Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker.

Marjorie passed away Dec. 17, 2014 at her hone in Marmarth.

Marjorie Ann (Johnston) Sonsalla was born Sept. 13, 1921, in her grandfather’s house in Beach, N.D. She rode horseback to attend country schools south of Wibaux for eight years. Her family later moved to Wibaux where she graduated from high school in 1939. She then attended Dickinson State college where she obtained a teaching certificate. She taught in country schools in the Beach, Wibaux and Golva area. She spent several summers visiting relatives in California.

She came to Marmarth on the train in 1944 to teach fifth and sixth grade.

She met her future husband, Andrew, at a school carnival in Marmarth. Their dates consisted of riding horseback in the badlands and going to movies in Baker. They were married June 3, 1946, in Wibaux. They moved to the family homestead where they lived for four years. their first two children, Mike and Mary Pat, were born during that time. Molly, Donnie and Rosalie were born after they moved to their current ranch home near Marmarth. They continued to live there until they were called home to the Lord.

Marjorie was an enthusiastic and dedicated teacher for many years, influencing the lives of numerous students.

She involved her students in YCL, math meets, and

Funeral services for Gayle Harpster, 71, of Sentinel Butte, N.D., were held Friday, Jan. 2, 2015, at the Sentinel Butte Hall in Sentinel Butte.

Burial will be at 3 p.m., Jan. 2, at the Beaver Lodge Cemetery in Ekalaka. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the Sentinel Butte Hall.

Gayle Ann Major Harpster was born Aug. 31, 1943, in Miles City, Mont. to Harold and LaVerne Malmquist Major, the oldest of their four children. She spent her childhood years in the Ridgway community, south of Ekalaka, Mont., on the family ranch.

Gayle attended country school at the Johnston School in the Ridgway community through the eighth grade. Her childhood years were busy with 4-H and community activities. She boarded with families in Ekalaka for high school, graduating in 1961.

Gayle was married to Donnie Harpster May 29, 1963. To this union were born two children, Christy Kay and Charles Eugene. They later divorced. She attended Dickinson State, took correspondence courses and attended summer school to graduate from Black Hills State in 1973. At 19, she began teaching rural schools on a provisional certificate, beginning a long career of teaching. She taught rural and elementary schools in Carter and Fallon Counties, in Wibaux, and spent nearly 25 years teaching in Golva, N.D. During this time she also worked summer jobs and some evening jobs while continuing her education to become certified in library and special education and as a reading specialist.

She moved her family to Beach during the years of teaching at Golva. It was during a summer job for Air Dakota Flight that her part-

spelling bees. She retired from teaching in 1986 and began cooking for Elder Care, which she thoroughly enjoyed. She was an avid reader, gardener, and she could beat anyone in a game of Scrabble. The grandkids recall her making long johns (maple sticks) for them every Saturday. No one ever left Marjorie’s home hungry, as she delighted in cooking for people. She was active in Royal Neighbors, St. Mary’s Altar Guild, Silver Educators, and Garden Club.

Her faith was very important to her and she was instrumental in helping build the church in Marmarth in 1954. She contributed to the church by singing in the choir as well as singing solos for weddings, funerals and High Mass. She also helped with many church dinners, Christmas programs, and all church functions.

Marjorie passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Andrew, and her parents.

She is survived by her five children, Mike (Joni) Sonsalla of Marmarth, Mary Pat (Clayton) Graham of Baker, Molly (Ranse) Lyson of Marmarth, Donnie (Margaret) Sonsalla of Marmarth, and Rosalie (Rick) Medalen of Williston, N.D.; 12 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com.

-3

nership with Boyd Trester was formed. Her battle with cancer forced her retirement after over 40 years of teaching. She later moved to Sentinel Butte, N.D. Despite health issues, Gayle’s priorities in life were to attend family and friends’ activities whenever possible.

Gayle went home to be with the Lord Dec. 22, 2014 at the West River Regional Medical Center in Hettinger, N.D. Gayle was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and LaVerne Major; and her brother, Ross Major.

She is survived by her partner, Boyd Trester; sister-inlaw, Correen Major; sisters, Kathy (Tom) Stieg and Virginia Waller; daughter, Christy (Matt) Zimmerman; son, Charley (Lisa) Harpster; grandchildren Devin, Lucas, Megan and Cassidy Zimmerman, and Ethan and Elijah Harpster; beloved nieces Amy (Matt) Dreke, Stacie (Shain) Becker, Tana Stieg, Ann (Brandon) Cornella, Lisa Foxley; nephews Cody and Aaron Waller; as well as treasured great-nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Memorials may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Fund, Carter County High School Millennial Scholarship Fund at Summit National Bank in Ekalaka, or to a charity of choice.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com.

Please join us for a

e-mail your news: fctimes@midrivers.com

70th Birthday celebration in honor of

Subscribe to the

Fallon County Times

Joan Johnson

Sat., Jan. 17 1:30 to 4:00 p.m.

Dessert & Beverages Lakeview Baptist Church 701 S. 1st Street E Baker, MT No Gifts Please.

Holistic services

Holistic service offered include: offered include:

Your local news resource!

Natural Health Center

- TH AN K Y O U A spcial thanks to all those who were involved with the successful Fallon Creek CattleWomen’s Beef Cook-off: teachers, judges, Plevena school and students. Prize and awards were funded by the Beef Council.

110 Beach,MT ND 202Central S 4th StAve. W •S,Baker,

Seeing patients Tuesdays at Fallon Medical Complex lower level Dr. Jake Holkup

Dr. Kylie in Baker Simnioniw

• Applied • Kinesiology Applied Kinesiology • Acupuncture • Nutrition Consultation • Cranial-Sacral Therapy • Foot Orthotics • Pediatric and Pregnancy

appointments M,For W& F - 7 a.m.-5:30call p.m.

TollThFree T& - 7 1-877-267-7520 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Tuesdays ext. 245 Sat. -406-778-5100 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Cell 701-866-4011 1-701-872-7520

Dr. James R. Campbell, DDS Family Dentistry

“Friends Healing Friends”

Complete general dentistry for adults & children:

• Preventive • Cosmetic • Implants • Crowns

FALLON MEDICAL COMPLEX & COMMUNITY CLINIC

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

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

SERVICES INCLUDE 24-Hour Emergency Room Acute Care/Hospital Care Outpatient Surgery Skilled Nursing Home Swing Bed/Long Term Care Home Health Services Life Line • Social Services Diagnostic Imaging • Mammography Colonoscopy • Ultrasound • CT • MRI Laboratory • Physical Therapy Dietetic Counseling Telemedicine Site

Darr yl Espeland, DO Dominick Trivisonno, MD Paul Wheeler, PA-C Steve Coxe, PA-C VISITING SPECIALISTS Leszek Jaszczak, MD (Radiology) Jeff Williams, MD (Obstetrics/Gynecology) 24-hr access via Telemedicine to Billings Specialists

SERVICES Flu & pneumonia immunizations • Prenatal care FAA, DOT, ICC physicals • Cryotherapy Minor surgical procedures Family health care for all ages

• Fillings • Root Canals • Extractions • Dentures

Practice located in Baker since 1994 Healthy Montana Kids Provider

202 South 4th Street W. Baker, MT 59313 (lower level of Fallon Medical Complex)

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

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

Monday - Friday

4 - FALLON COUNTY TIMES

Fallon County Times and Places

HOPE, do you feel alcohol is causing problems, we can help, Tuesdays at 7:00 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.

Fallon County Library hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; closed Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays.

O’Fallon Historical Museum Open Monday - Friday 8 a.m. 5 p.m. Closed on legal holidays.

Driver Licensing Schedule, second and third Tuesdays, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., 12:30 - 3:30 p.m., courthouse Changed For Life church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center; Open house baby shower for Madix Varner, son of Samm Schermele and Casey Varner, 24 p.m., Lakeview Country Club, Jan. 4.

Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church; Codependent Support Group, noon, American Lutheran Church; Fallon County Ambulance; Support group for parents/guardians with special needs children, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church, Jan. 6.

City Council, 7 p.m., Fallon County courtroom, Jan. 7.

Baker Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture, noon, Baker Bowling Alley, Jan. 8.

Changed For Life church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center, Jan. 11.

American Legion Auxiliary, 6:30 p.m., American Legion; Hospital Helpers; Music Boosters, Jan. 12.

Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church; Codependent Support Group, noon, American Lutheran Church; Friends of Library, 5 p.m., library basement Patchwork Quilting Guild, 10 a.m., Thee Garage, Jan.13.

CowBelles; School Board, 7 p.m., high school board room, Jan. 14.

70th birthday party for Joan Johnson, 1:30-4:00 p.m., Lakeview Baptist Church, Jan. 17.

Hoversland winner of Chamber promotion The third winner of the Be A Winner! Shop In Baker! promotion, sponsored by the Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, was Brittany Hoversland of Baker. She received $100 in Baker Bucks.

Legal Tip of the Week Did you know … that you may be able to file your taxes and get your refund back in as little as eight days?

The www.MontanaFreeFile. org website gives you information on how to file your taxes for free and where to get tax help. It also gives you other general tax information that will make filing your taxes easier.

For more information, visit www.MontanaFreeFile.org. If you can’t find the information you want, click on the LiveHelp button or call the Montana Legal Services Association HelpLine at 1800-666-6899.

Fallon County Times Deadlines: Tuesday 2 p.m.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015

First annual SE Montana Coyote Calling Contest

By Lori Kesinger Though not as popular as deer hunting, coyote calling is becoming a growing sport and a big event is taking place in southeastern Montana the second weekend in January.

The first annual Southeastern Montana Coyote Calling contest will be Friday and Saturday, Jan. 9 and 10. Hunters can sign in from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9, at the Corner Bar in Baker. A rules meeting will follow at 7 p.m. Hunters will check back in Saturday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m.

Coyote hunting is becoming a fast growing sport nationwide. Coyotes have established large populations in every state and are becoming trouble for domestic pets, livestock, and people. The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) estimated cattle and calf losses from animal predators totaled nearly 220,000 head during 2010.

This represented 5.5 percent of the total deaths from all causes and resulted in a loss of $98.5 million to farmers and ranchers. Coyotes caused the

majority of cattle and calf predator losses, accounting for 53.1 percent, respectively. The overpopulation of coyotes has also taken a severe toll on wildlife in many areas. Coyote damage has prompted the interest in contests to manage populations with an estimated 500 calling contests held nationwide.

The availability of electronic calls has also led to a surge in the sport’s popularity over the past few years. The digital calls make the sounds of prey in distress or calls that coyotes make, and the coyotes are lured into rifle range.

The cost to participate in the local event is $120 for a twothree person team, and the fee includes big and little dog pots. Multiple door prizes and guns will be awarded.

Landowners giving permission during the contest will also have a chance at a giveaway.

For more information, visit the Baker Coyote Hunt Facebook page or contact Trevor Nelson 406-853-8587 or Dustin Varner 406-891-0653.

Dashing Through the Snow

Resolutions CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

• Strive to obtain the deep awareness of suffering people.

In Montana we have one and People often hide their pain whether physical or emoall tional. Hurting people hurt Gone dashing through the people. Extend compassion to snow. those in need and desire to Mostly when I think of it help them.

I remember being cold.

• Choose to forgive others.

Studies have shown that bitter, Now I never rode in a one angry people have higher horse sleigh blood pressure and heart rate But my Mom could drive the and are more likely to die of sleigh. heart disease and other illOle Nel was the name of her nesses. Feeling bitter interfavorite mare feres with the body’s And Mom kept her skittin’ all hormonal and immune systhe way. tems, according to Carsten Wrosch, an associate professor But never mind we jingled of psychology at Concordia bells University in Montreal. ForAnd had a right good time. giveness is more about you Seems to me that hot than the other person. chocolate stops • Love others despite their imWere the favorite thing in line. perfections. No one is perfect.

Some resolutions are worth So kids are kids and they love keeping throughout the year, everyday. to laugh And sing with everyone.

I hope our kids remember some songs And have memories to draw on.

Got a NEWS tip?

Call the

‘Cause time will come and all too soon And there’ll be only memories And dashing through the snow will be Only in reverie.

Fallon County Times 406-778-3344 or e-mail: fctimes@midrivers.com

By Prairie Singer

H ap py B ir th da y January 2 Ashlyn Lutts, Jon Griffith, Kaileigh Morris, Samantha Griffith, Wiley Thielen, Anita Graham January 3 Donovan Knote, Freida Straub, Stacy Bierig, Arleen Ferrell January 4 Sarah Mettler, Grant Bertsch January 5 Aubryn Schwartz, Jim Johnson, Jolene Setinc, Nick Helgoth, Tesla Erickson, Toby Hurley January 6 Faye Koenig, Karrol Williams, Nikki Stieg January 7 Kimberlee Brooks, Quinn Griffith, Ryan Varner, Drew Thilmony, Josh Celander January 8 Dustan Davis

Call 406-778-3344 or email fctimes@midrivers.com if you have a birthday you would like listed January 9 - January 15.

Photo by Lori Kesinger

Construction on the new indoor gun and archery range has been hampered by winter weather in recent months. The indoor range located west of Baker will include classroom space for hunter education and 4-H Shooting Sports classes, year around archery and live fire shooting, and facilities for law enforcement practice, training and certification. The indoor range is expected to be completed by early summer.

MT’s 64th Legislature starts Jan. 5

By MICHAEL WRIGHT and MADELYN BECK Community News Service UM School of Journalism From across the state, Montana’s citizen lawmakers are heading to Helena soon to debate a bevy of issues ranging from health care to higher education.

Montana’s 64th Legislature is scheduled to start Jan. 5. Republicans control both the state Senate and House of Representatives, but they’ll have to contend with Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock to accomplish anything of substance.

Job No. 1 will be funding state services for the next two years, but there’s plenty on lawmakers’ plates besides that.

More than 1,900 pieces of legislation have either been introduced or are in the drafting stage.

Here’s a rundown of some of topics you’ll hear more about during the 90-day session.

Expanding health coverage A plan to provide health care for some 70,000 of the state’s lowest-income people – something that failed in the last session – is back on the Legislature’s agenda.

Last session, Republicans blocked Gov. Steve Bullock’s proposal to expanded Medicaid to cover more Montanans.

The federal government offered to pay most of the costs as part of the federal Affordable Care Act, but GOP leaders feared it would cost too much money for both the federal and state governments.

Bullock isn’t giving up. The expansion is included in his budget as part of its “Healthy Montana” plan. It’s modeled on the Healthy Montana Kids program that Montana has followed for almost 10 years.

“It’s the only proposal like it in the nation,” said Dave Parker, Bullock’s communications director. The plan would allow the state to use hundreds of millions of federal dollars to contract with a private insurer to provide health insurance for low-income Montanans at negotiated rates.

Sen. Ed Buttrey, R-Great Falls, likes that the plan is unique to Montana but said he wants to know more about how it would work. He also wants assurances that the system would not be wasteful or susceptible to abuse.

“We want to make sure that folks who can provide for themselves are doing that,” Buttrey said.

Crime and punishment Electronic cigarettes have increased in popularity over the past few years, and Montana’s Attorney General Tim Fox wants the state to regulate them. John Barnes, Fox’s spokesman, said his office is considering a ban on sales to minors.

The state’s top law enforcement officer also wants to create a sexual assault prosecution unit. It would train county attorneys on how best to prosecute such cases and on how to treat victims with sensitivity.

The governor, meanwhile, is asking for more money to add parole and probation officers.

The state’s public defender system is seeking more money too.

Raising pay for deputy county attorneys is on the wish list as well. Mark Murphy, a lobbyist for the Montana County Attorneys Association, said raises would reduce the high turnover rate among deputy prosecutors.

Montana’s death penalty law is sure to come up for debate this session. In 2011, a bill to abolish executions passed the Senate with support from several Republican senators but died in the House.

ACLU lobbyist Niki Zupanic said abolishing the death penalty tops her group’s priorities list. She’s seeing growing support from Christian groups.

“We're really encouraged with the response we've gotten from incoming legislators,” she said. “We're cautiously optimistic.”

Barnes said the attorney general’s office would defend Montana’s death penalty statute.

K-12 schools The stage is set for a tug-ofwar over more money for Montana’s public schools, a big-ticket item in any legislative session.

Calling education “our greatest priority,” Gov. Bullock said he wants to continue what he describes as last session’s “historic investments” in public schools. He also wants $37 million to help school districts create or expand voluntary pre-kindergarten programs aimed at getting every Montana four-year-old into preschool. But not everyone is on board. Bob Vogel, president of the Montana School Boards Association, says his group and others are wary of Bullock’s pre-K program, hoping instead to preserve everyday funding for schools. “Part of

what we want to make sure of is not to lose other things in order to get early education,” he said.

For much the same reason, Vogel also said his group is bracing for a renewed fight over so-called “school choice” bills, which would allow for such things as tax breaks for those who donate to scholarships for private schools.

“We are adamantly opposed to that,” said Eric Feaver, the president of the Montana Education Association-Montana Federation of Teachers, or MEA-MFT. “We already have a choice … to say we have no choice is not correct.” The Montana’s American Civil Liberties Union expects be involved in that battle too.

“We would like to make sure our public tax dollars are going to public schools that are open to all,” said the ACLU’s Niki Zupanic.

Sen. Robyn Driscoll, a Democrat from Billings, has introduced a bill to increase the high school dropout age to 18.

That could prove difficult, however, because it would cost more money to keep students in school longer.

Hunting, fishing and access The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is facing a potential $5.6 million budget shortfall. Officials hope to make up the difference by bumping up resident license fees.

FWP is proposing a $3 increase on fishing licenses and an $8 increase on hunting licenses. FWP cut more than $1 million from its budget two years ago in wildlife and fisheries programs and in administrative costs.

Spokesman Ron Aasheim said raising license fees would prevent further cuts in those areas and in conservation.

About 70 percent of the department’s conservation budget comes from license revenue.

Nick Gevock, of the Montana Wildlife Federation, said his organization would support FWP’s license proposal. His group also wants to increase penalties for landowners who block access to public roads running through private land.

A report issued by the Wildlife Federation and the Public Lands and Water Access Association listed examples of illegal road closures across the state and called the crime a growing problem.

Holding down tuition The governor and Montana’s commissioner of higher eduSEE LEGISLATURE , PAGE 8

When you buy something from a “Mom and Pop” business, you are NOT helping the CEO in another state afford a 3rd vacation home.

You are supporting local youth activities, non-profits, clubs, and charitable benefits for neighbors and friends. You are helping a Mom or Dad put food on their table, a family pay a mortgage, or a student pay for college.

Our customers are our shareholders and they are the ones we strive to make happy.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING BAKER SMALL BUSINESSES!

FALLON COUNTY TIMES

Year End Review CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 as of Jan. 11 there had been 156 Montanans hospitalized for influenza-related conditions so far this flu season. . .

Father Tobin will celebrate his 80th birthday Jan. 30. . . Baker Spartan senior wrestlers who will be introduced during the Wrestling Parents’ Day activities Jan. 25 are Cody Beyers, Cody Perry, Mason Melby, Jonathan Wiseman, Dustin Irgens and Travis Koenig. . .

Stop signs have been placed at the intersection on Second Street Southwest and Center Avenue West. Center Avenue is now a through street. This change was made last fall, but due to a lack of observation, at least one accident has occurred. . . Baker Senior Citizens elected officers for the coming year. Pat Hanley is the president, Marj Peterson - vice president, Lolita Cameron secretary, Teddy Stoddard treasurer, and Betty Mueller is the membership chairman.

January 31 -- Speech and drama students advance to state. Placing first at divisionals were Darby Bettenhausen, Isaac Rost, Kiana Henneberry, Olivia Mahon, Brianna Rambur, Dustan Davis, and Jase Rost. Others who will be going to state are Megan Greiff, Taiken Goerndt, Savannah Davis, Moriah Kesinger, Caden Dukart, Donald Austin, Wyatt Perry, Jaden Miller, Makenzy Shipstead, and Jacob Weimer. . . January 22, about 50 people from Baker, Ridgeway, Marmarth, Amidon, Rhame, and Bowman communities banded together to share their support for the Right to Life. The group met at Highway 7 and Railroad Avenue and proceeded to march to the Assembly of God Church. . . The Brown Ranch, LLLP, Marmarth, ND, was selected as the 2013 Bowman-Slope Soil Conservation District Conservation Achievement winner. . . Fallon County 4-H Council executive officers presented Maxine Rost with a “Friend of 4-H and 4-H Alumni Award”, Jan. 15. For the first time ever, these awards were combined and presented to one recipient. . . Can- didates who have filed for the primary election to be held in June are: County Commissioner District 1 - Deb Ranum; County Clerk and Recorder - Brenda Wood; Sheriff/Coroner - Trent Harbaugh, Randy Ketterling; County Attorney - Albert Batterman, Darcy Pankratz; County Treasurer - Barb Ketterling; Justice of the Peace Nicole Benefiel.

February 7 -- Baker Spartan drama team won the state championship trophy for the third year in a row. The Spartans finished the state meet with an impressive 93 points.

Those on the team were Jase Rost, Caden Dukart, Dustan Davis, Isaac Rost, Brianna Rambur, Darby Bettenhausen, Kiana Henneberry and Olivia Mahon. . . The Cabin Creek Cafe has changed partners.

Sherrie Wegner of Baker has partnered with Jon and Alissa Miller in ownership of the cafe. . . Baker Spartan wrestlers are headed to the divisional tourney Feb. 8. . .

Plevna music students were chosen from thousands of entries from all over the United States to have their picture published in the “Music K-8” magazine. . . The Dickinson State University Blue Hawks announce that Jace Schillinger is their new offensive coordinator for the football program.

Schillinger is a former Baker resident. . . Hospital Helpers recently donated money to purchase an artificial arm for the nursing services staff at Fallon Medical Complex. This educational tool will allow staff to hone and maintain their skills at providing injections, blood draws, and IV starts for their patients. . .

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015 Drury Phebus, age 91, is featured in this issue of the Fallon County Times.

February 14 -- Nine Spartan wrestlers will advance to the State Meet, Feb. 14-15, in Billings. They are Trevor Griffith, Keegan Kary, Paul Wang, Cody Perry, Spencer Losing, Travis Koenig, Cody Beyers, Mason Melby, and Dustin Irgens. . . National FFA Week is Feb. 15-22. Both the Baker and Plevna Chapters of FFA are featured in this issue. . . A team from eastern Montana won the Ranch Rodeo at the Black Hills Stock Show for the second year in a row. The team, Draggin’ 3 Performance Horses, consists of the founder Don Selle, now retired, of Baker, Andy Selle of Baker, Spike Buffington of Miles City, Dusty Buffington of Miles City, and Jake Poppe of Fallon. . . Fallon County Recreation Department has hired Jana Wagner as the new assistant to Director Angie Rabbitt. . . High temperature Feb. 5 was -4 degrees and the low was -19 that night. . .

Relay for Life Kickoff was held Feb. 9 at Thee Garage Showroom. So far ten Relay for Life teams have registered for the event to be held July 25-26.

February 21 -- Mason Melby, a senior at Baker High School, finished his wrestling season undefeated at 39-0. He won the state champion title in the 182 pound weight class, Feb. 15. Melby has signed with Carroll College to play football in the 2014 season. . .

Quality Personal Care is transitioning to new ownership and a new name, Superior Care Villa. Jay and Michelle Shumaker purchased the business from Robin Wright.

Michelle will be the administrator of the assisted living facility. . . Baker Spartan boys and girls basketball teams are headed to the district basketball tournament, Feb. 19-22, in Colstrip. . . Plevna Lady Cougars will be at their district basketball tournament Feb. 19-22 in Miles City. . . Fallon County Times Valentine Love Song Scramble winners were Gary Sparks, Beverly Rath, Allan Werre, and Patti Brookes. Each winner will receive $10 in “Love Bucks” to be spend at participating businesses. . . Picture: Anna Griffith of Baker donated five Thomas Kinkade pictures to the Hospital Helpers Auxiliary. The Hospital Helpers then donated them to Fallon Medical Complex to be placed in hospital rooms. . . Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest Winners at the Council level were: Kenzie Tooke of Ekalaka, Jenna Paul of Plevna, Halle Burdick of Baker, Jessica Paul of Plevna, Mariah Miller of Plevna, Maryssa Rusley of Baker, Sean Wolenetz of Ekalaka, Seth Kennedy of Ekalaka, Konner Flint of Baker, Caleb Ploeger of Plevna, Riley Schultz of Baker, and Nash Sauers of Ekalaka.

February 28 -- Flooded channel causes problems iced up culverts and snow accumulation in Baker’s water channel from Baker Lake through town caused recent water flow from the lake to dam up and result in flooding.

Significant flooding occurred at the road crossing at the south end of Schell’s Lake City Shopping Center. The Public Works Department was

able to prevent nearby homes from receiving any water damage. The City of Baker has submitted a request to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for permission to clear the channel and to restore the flow. . . .

Baker Lady Spartans placed second at the 3B District Tournament in Colstrip Feb. 19-22.

They will travel to Billings to participate in the Class B Divisional Tournament Mar. 6-8. . . Area volunteers are saluted in this issue of the Fallon County Times. Baker Ambulance Service reported they responded to 155 911 calls. . .

The 50th Americanism Program was held Feb. 24 at the Longfellow Gym. Russ Stoddard was master of ceremonies. Milestones being celebrated this year are 85100th anniversary of Gold Star Mothers, 100th anniversary of Charity Chapter Eastern Star, 100th anniversary of Sandstone Lodge, 125th anniversary of the State of Montana, and the 200th anniversary of the “Star Spangled Banner”.

March 7 -- Recreation officials are proposing adding a skate park, bike park and splash park at the current site of the Iron Horse Park in Baker. A public meeting will be held towards the end of March after the conceptual drawings are completed. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting to offer input. . .

Concerned citizens and local officials have been hoping to find a resolve to the issue of blocked railroad crossings in the city of Baker. Rick Van Wey, BNSF Safety Director, met Feb. 27 with Chuck Lee, DES Director, to discuss alternative railroad crossings. Van Wey is proposing that the crossing between Third Street SW and Fourth Street SW be changed. . . . Mar. 4, Charles Edward Jardee, 44, of Baker pled nolo contendere to two counts of felony Partner Family Member Assault and one count of misdemeanor Stalking. District Court Judge George W. Huss imposed separate sentences on each count. . . Baker and Plevna students will attend the Academic Olympics in Miles City Mar. 11-12. . . . The activities department at Fallon Medical Complex announced that Mike Murphy was crowned its Valentine king and Grace Maurice was crowned queen.

March 14 -- Local Meals on Wheels Program is featured in this issue of the Fallon County Times. The full cost of a meal is $8.25 and a $4.50 donation request is made. Local participants in the program have diminished in recent years with the congregate meals offered at Fallon Medical Complex. . . City Council held a public hearing Mar. 5 on the keeping of certain dog breeds (pit bulls, etc.) in the City of Baker. Almost everyone in attendance was in favor of lifting the ban that prohibits keeping certain animals. . .

Some residents in the area of Fourth Street and ,Lincoln SEE YEAR ENDSW REVIEW PAGE 6

L AW ENFORCEMENT Baker Police Department • December 22, 2014 -December 28, 2014 - 17 Calls for service: 1 agency assist; 2 animal complaints; 1 extra patrol; 4 informations; 7 traffic stops; 2 unlocks Anyone with any information on any area crime is encouraged to call Crimestoppers at 406-778-2222.

Calls are never recorded and rewards are offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of responsible parties.

FROM City Court • Ralynn Kristine Noftsker, Baker, criminal mischief pecuniary loss less than $1500, dismissed by prosecution, ticket issued 12/1/14.

• Tyler Scott Dungan, Baker, animals creating a nuisance, bond forfeited $60, ticket issued 9/26/14.

• Tyler Scott Dungan, Baker, animal at large, bond forfeited $60, ticket issued 9/26/14.

• Tyler Scott Dungan, Baker, animal at large, bond forfeited $30, ticket issued 9/26/14.

• Briana Nicole Sposili, driving without a valid driver’s license, has never possessed, $535 with $300 suspended on conditions for a period of six months (6/23/15), no violations of any local, state, or federal laws, pay fines and fees as ordered, complete, comply and pay for WiseChoice LifeSkills Course: Driver Responsibility, notify the Court of any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 8/8/14.

• Jay Dee Grigsby, Baker, public nuisance, $485 with $200 suspended on conditions for a period of one year (12/23/15), 60 days jail with 60 days suspended on conditions for a period of one year (12/23/15), jail time to run consecutive with File No. TK2014-118, no violations of any local, state or federal laws, pay fines and fees as ordered, notify the Court of any change of address or telephone number, maintain premises free and void of debris, junk vehicles, and conditions in a manner offensive to the senses, ticket issued 9/10/14.

• Jay Dee Grigsby, Baker, public nuisance, $585 with $200 suspended on conditions for a period of one year (12/23/15), 90 days jail with 90 days suspended on conditions for a period of one year (12/23/15), jail time to run consecutive with File No. TK2014-114, no violations of any local, state, or federal laws, pay fines and fees as ordered, notify the Court of any change of address or telephone number, maintain premises free and void of debris, junk vehicles, and conditions in a manner offensive to the senses, ticket issued 9/17/14.

• Kyle Evan Goerndt, Baker, violation of a no contact order, $585 fine, 180 days jail 150 suspended on conditions for a period of six months (6/23/15), defendant given credit for 12 days served prior to conviction, no violations of any local, state or federal laws, pay fines and

THE BENCH

fees as ordered, complete jail sentence as ordered, complete, comply and pay for WiseChoice LifeSkills Course: Parenting, seek and maintain employment, defendant shall provide proof of employment via paystubs and/or file proof of seeking employment via Employment Search Log provided by the Court, notify the Court of any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 10/20/14.

• Claiten Nyle Webb, Plevna, owner permitting operation of vehicle without liability insurance, 1st offense, dismissed by Prosecution, ticket issued 9/26/14.

• Larry Benjamin Barnett, Baker, violation of a no contact order, deferred by Prosecutor, ticket issued 9/4/14.

• Larry Benjamin Barnett, Baker, disorderly conduct, $185 fine, ten days jail with ten days suspended on conditions for a period of one year (12/15/15), no violations of any local, state or federal laws, pay fines and fees as ordered, pay back all Public Defender fees in the amount of $250, complete, comply and pay for WiseChoice LifeSkills Courses: Domestic Violence and Anger Management, attend, complete, comply and pay for SMART Recovery Program, shall not enter any establishment where alcohol is the chief item of sale with the exception of pick up food to-go orders, shall not possess or consume any alcohol or illegal drugs and/or drugs or medications without a prescription, notify the Court/Counsel immediately of any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 7/9/14.

• Larry Benjamin Barnett, Baker, assault, $585 fine, $250 Public Defender fees, 180 days jail with 179 suspended on conditions for a period of one year (12/15/15), no violations of any local, state or federal laws, pay fines and fees as ordered, pay back all Public Defender fees in the amount of $250, complete, comply and pay for WiseChoice Life Skills Courses: Domestic Violence and Anger Management, attend, complete, comply and pay for SMART Recovery Program, shall not enter any establishment where alcohol is the chief item of sale with the exception of pick up food to-go orders, shall not possess or consume any alcohol or illegal drugs and/or drugs or medications without a prescription, notify the Court/Counsel immediately of

any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 7/9/14.

Justice Court • Trevor John Pierce, Billings, speeding on non-interstate, exceed night limit of 65 MPH, 136/65, deferred imposition of sentence, $100 with $50 suspended on conditions for one year (12/17/15), no violation of any local, state, or federal laws, pay fine, fees and/or surcharges as agreed/ordered, complete WCA LifeSkills Driver Responsibility Course, complete Alive at 25 Defensive Driving, notify the Court immediately of any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 12/3/14.

• Trevor John Pierce, Billings, reckless driving, deferred imposition of sentence, 1st offense, $335, no violation of any local, state, or federal laws, pay fine, fees and/or surcharges as agreed/ordered, complete WCA LifeSkills Driver Responsibility Course, complete Alive at 25 Defensive Driving, notify the Court immediately of any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 12/3/14.

• Scott Michael Murie, Livingston, operating with alcohol concentration of 0.08% BAC or greater, 1st offense, $685 with $300 suspended on conditions for six months (6/18/15), defendant to pay $125 for the Public Defender, jail of 180 days with 180 days suspended on conditions for six months, loss of driver’s license by the State of Montana for a period of six months, no violations of any local, state or federal laws, pay fine, fees and/or surcharges as agreed/ordered, pay all ordered Court costs, complete ACT Prime for Life Course, complete WCA LifeSkills Substance Abuse and DUI Course, restricted probationary driver’s license with the installation of the Ignition Interlock, shall not enter any establishment where alcohol is the chief item of sale, shall not possess or consume any alcohol or illegal drugs, notify the Court immediately of any change of address or telephone number, ticket issued 4/29/14.

• Marilyn Gawryluk, Baker, public nuisance counts 1XL111 (1-43), dismissed by Prosecution per plea agreement, ticket issued 4/9/14.

• Emily Sue Mashak, Salol, MN, speeding, exceed restricted/special zone speed limit established by department, 37/25, bond forfeited $65, ticket issued 12/5/14.

F allon C ounty T imes B usiness D irectory

This space

B.R.A.V.V.

If you are being emotionally or physically hurt,

call 406-978-9262

Baker Resource and Advocacy for Victims of Violence

A community based service to provide CONFIDENTIAL support, assistance and information for anyone dealing with

Sexual Assult • Dating Violence Domestic Violence • Bullying • Stalking

5

$6 a week!

for free and confidential help 24 hours a day.

BREAK THE SILENCE. END THE ABUSE. MAKE THE CALL!

406-978-BRAV (2728) If you would like to volunteer time or donate please call the number above. 100% of all donations go to victims of violence.

HOME TELEPHONE: (406) 778-3169

BUSINESS TELEPHONE: (406) 778-3189 Tri-State Chiropractic Center Townsend Accounting

Dr. Charles F. Whitney 111 4th St. NW PO Box 176 Bowman, ND 58623

701-523-3239 GUNS N THINGS LLC 305 N. Merrill Ave. Glendive, MT

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

Service

COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL Overhead Garage Doors & Operators

Accounting, Computer & Tax Specialists

Jerry R. Townsend Accountant 10 South Main • Box 880 • Baker, MT

CALL 406-978-5646

Thee Body Shop 406-778-2263

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

GUNS & RELOADING 24 Hour Towing • 406-853-6722 EQUIPMENT 111 Pleisner St. (1/4 mile east of Baker)

6 - FALLON COUNTY TIMES

Year End Review CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 Fourth Street SW and Lincoln Avenue West in Baker were evacuated from their homes the evening of Mar. 9 due to a gas leak. An outside piece of equipment joining two pipes was leaking. A MontanaDakota Utilities company crew made temporary repairs and permanent repairs were made Mar. 10. . . Girl Scout Week is being observed Mar. 9-15. . . American Legion is celebrating their birthday Mar. 16. A ham and turkey dinner with all the trimmings is being served. . . Private Zachary Cole, 19, of Alazada graduated from the U.S. Marine Corps boot camp. Air Force Airman Tanner Apple graduated from basic military training.

March 21 -- Fallon Medical Complex Pink ladies received the Group Volunteer of the Year Award from the Montana Healthcare Association, Mar. 11, in Bozeman. The FMC Pink Ladies were nominated for their “beauty shop” they operate weekly in FMC’s activity room. The ladies in this group include LaVerne Schell, Candy Mettler, Sonia Schell, Darlene Hepperle, Doris Benner, and Rose Straub. . . High temperature Mar. 16 was 62 degrees. . . The Public Works Department has received permission from the US Army Corps of Engineers to restore the channel that was dug up to alleviate flooding the end of February at the south end of Schell’s Lake City Shopping Center. They are to restore the channel with the same material as previously used. . .

Friends of FMC Foundation’s second annual St. Patrick’s Leapin’ Leprechaun Race was held Mar. 15. Eight teams registered to be in the race. . .

Baker and Plevna FCCLA teams will be at the State Leadership Conference in Billings, Mar. 23-25. . . 4-H Food Festival held in Plevna, Mar. 16. . . The Cull Cows volleyball team from Baker repeated as the 2014 Bowman Parks and Recreation volleyball champs for the fourth consecutive year. Seven women’s volleyball teams participated in the Bowman Parks and Recreation competitive volleyball league. Members of the Baker team were Carol Hadley, Mandi Varner, Toni O’Connor, Sheila O’Connor, Ashlee Moore, Shye Coulter, Delayne Robbins, Marissa Packineau, Shaleigh Straub, Trish Barth, and Kelsy Hadley.

March 28 -- The City of Baker plans to enforce the Public Nuisance and Junk Vehicle statutes. The City has received a number of complaints over the past year in regard to junk vehicles on streets and private lots. . . After the public hearing in favor of lifting the ban prohibiting certain dog breeds in the City of Baker, the City Council has formed a committee to revise the current ordinance. . . The Fallon County Commission has made a decision to proceed with an indoor shooting range. . .

Cody Perry and Kalli Post were crowned king and queen at the 2014 Baker High School Prom. Other candidates were Justin Irgens, Jonathan Wiseman, Travis Koenig, Darby Bettenhausen, Tori Nelson and Zoey DeBuhr. . . With increased heavy truck traffic, the highway surface in several stretches of Highway 7 has become rough and broken, and some residents have voiced safety concerns. The Montana DOT has divided the 18 mile stretch into three, six mile sections, and the first of these sections is scheduled for rebuilding in the summer of 2015.

April 4 -- A late season storm moved into the region Mar. 30, causing blizzard conditions, road and school closures across southeastern Montana.

Temperatures dropped from the upper 40s

Mar. 30 to the teens Mar. 31.

Sustained winds in the 20s gusted to 40 mph with wind chills falling to below zero.

Approximately six inches of heavy, wet snow fell in Baker and the surrounding areas. . .

Cub Scouts Pinewood Derby will be held Apr. 12. . . The Runnings Company is still planning to build a new store in Baker even though the project has not progressed as expected. They are working on city and state permits at this time. The new store will be 40,000 square feet compared to the current location at 12,000 square feet. . . Paitton Herbst, senior at Baker High School, was selected to the District 3B All-Conference Basketball Team. Jordan Walker, a senior at Baker High School, was selected to the Boys District 3B All-Conference Basketball First Team. . .

High temperature Mar. 29 was 67 degrees, low Apr. 1 was -5 degrees.

April 11 -- U.S. Postal Service cutting hours at the Plevna Post Office. Hours of operation will decrease to four hours of retail window service each day. The U.S. Postal Service is facing a financial crisis in a struggle to keep pace with electronic communication. In an effort to curtail losses, they are reducing hours at 13,000 rural post offices around the country. . . Annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Gamma Beta Sorority will be held April 12 at the Fallon County Fairgrounds indoor arena. . . Low temperature Apr. 4 was 7 degrees. . .

Vaughn Zenko is the winner of the Ruffles Pop A Shot given away at Reynolds Market.

Vaughn donated this to Gaven, Eli and Parker Helgoth. . .

Baker band and choir students will be at the District Music Festival Apr. 11-12 in Glendive. Plevna band will be at their District Music Festival Apr. 11-12 in Miles City. . .

The Multi-Chem basketball team of Baker is back-to-back champs of the Rosebud Invitational tournament. Twelve teams participated in the 2014 tournament. Members of the team are Blake Schwagler, Ryan Stevens, Ryan Varner, Eddie Coulter, Neil Packineau, Erik Morris, Luke Schwagler, Eric Lawerence, Jade Boggs, Dennis Johnson, and Jay Hoversland. . . The 12th annual Baker Jam Youth Basketball Tournament was held Mar. 29-30. Forty-six teams competed in the tournament. . . Solenn Jacobsen, a talented 16 year old Baker High School student, performed a piano recital Mar. 30 at the American Lutheran Church in Baker. Solenn is trying to raise money to help pay for her Close Up trip to Washington, DC. April 18 -- Fallon County residents planning to vote in the June Primary will have a chance to meet the candidates in a public forum, April 23, at the Baker Senior Center. All candidates will be in attendance including: Deb Ranum, Kevin Braun - running for commissioner; Brenda Wood Clerk and Recorder; Sheriff/Coroner - Trent Harbaugh, Randy Ketterling; Albert Batterman, Darcy Pankratz - County Attorney; Barb Ketterling Treasurer/Assessor; Nicole Benefiel, Sharae Putnam - Justice of the Peace. . . A Bell 20 helicopter was grounded at Baker Municipal Airport April 8 due to the activity of the Powder River Training Complex military operating area.

The helicopter was being used

by Bridger Pipeline Company to set transponders for pipeline inspection. Roger Meggers said, “This is just the tip of the iceberg for what is to come if the low-level expansion is allowed.”. . . Administrative Professionals Week is April 20-26. . . . Keely HeatonCuster is pictured with the Easter bunny who was at the Easter Egg Hunt held April 12 at the Fallon County Fairgrounds.

April 25 -- Hardware Hank

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015 will be transferred to new owners the beginning of May after Randy and Donna Morris end their tenure at the end of April. Randy’s parents, Don and Gladys Morris, began the store ownership with the operation of Gambles. The name was eventually changed to OK Hardware, then Trustworthy Hardware, and in 1995 the name was changed to Hardware Hank. The Morris family has run the local hardware store for the past 38 years. The new owners are Mike Wiebolt and Kyle and Emily Medearis of Minnesota. . . . Clayton Hornung of Baker will be inducted into the Montana Coaches Association Hall of Fame July 31 in Great Falls.

Hornung has coached basketball for 37 years in Montana and his teams at Baker have won 468 games. . . Team Shipstead attended the MDA Muscle Walk at Rimrock Mall in Billings Apr. 19. They raised $6,734 with donations silent auctions, business sponsorships, and great community support. . . Annual Southeastern Montana Health Fair will be held Apr. 30. . . The Billings-based Mobile Vet Center was in front of the Fallon County Courthouse April 16. Approximately ten veterans stopped in while it was here. . . Baseball coaches for the 2014 season are Bo Lingle, Brock Collins and Josh Stieg.

May 2 -- Five candidates have filed for the two open positions on the Baker School Board. Those vying for the positions are Kevin Dukart, Johnna Graham, Scott Rabbitt, Chris Schell, and Jon Slagter. . . Mindi Murnion was nominated by Kim Cuppy, Public Health Administrator, for her role in providing WIC services in Fallon County. Murnion won the Outstanding WIC Employee Award presented Apr. 10 by the Montana Association of WIC Agencies. . .

2014 prom held at Plevna Apr. 26. Ten couples attended this year and because there are only three seniors they decided not to crown a prom king and queen.

May 9 -- Unofficial school board election results show Johnna Graham and Scott Rabbitt as the winners. . . The Buckle Up Montana Coalition was pleased to award a mother and her daughters with the Saved by the Belt Award for their life-saving use of seatbelts in an accident earlier this year. Mindi Murnion and her daughters Karlee and Adison were involved in a single vehicle rollover on US Highway 12, March 28. It is very likely they would have been fully or partially ejected during the rollover had they not been properly using their seatbelts.

They were given certificates, cash and keychains. . . Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture is hosting a free training session provided by Montana Superhost. The Rockin’ to the Rhythm of Service interactive seminar will be held May 21. . . It has been announced that Rick Springfield will be the featured entertainer at the Fallon County Fair. . . Door prize winners of BBQ grills at the eleventh anniversary celebration of J&M Lumber were Walter Hanratty and Jeremy Schallenberger. . . Baker High School athletes will at the District Track Meet May 17; Divisional Tennis May 16 (both of which are in Baker); and Divisional Golf May 12 at Pryor Creek. . . Plevna High School will be at their District Track Meet May 15 in Baker. . . Approximately 772 adults and students attended the health fair April 30. There were 43 exhibiting organizations and vendors. Total number of blood draws was 317.

May 16 -- The last week of April, 19 students from Baker High School visit our nation’s capital as part of an extracurricular program known as Close Up. The students and seven chaperones participated in activities and discussions with students from all over the country, and visited the na-

tional monuments. . . Solenn Jacobsen has been selected to represent Baker High School as a delegate to the 2014 session of Montana American Legion Auxiliary Girls State.

Solenn is the daughter of Isabelle and Mark Jacobsen. . .

Cabin Creek Cafe is celebrating their first anniversary May 17. . . Picture: Lemons grown

by Sonny and Kay Hanson who live south of Marmarth, ND. . . Plevna High School graduation is May 18. . . Low temperature May 9 was 28 degrees.

May 23 -- Marion Hartse of Baker was among the 77 World War II veterans who participated in the Big Sky Honor Flight, May 11-12. The group was greeted May 12 at the World War II Memorial by Montana Senators John Walsh and Jon Tester, who placed the Big Sky Honor Flight wreath in front of the Montana memorial. . . Plevna held their 86th commencement exercise May 18. Shelbie Webb was the valedictorian and keynote speaker was Sen. Eric Moore of Miles City. . . . Pastor Jim Biswell of the Medicine Rocks Church will be the speaker at the Memorial Day services held at Baker and Plevna cemeteries. . . An open house retirement reception will be held for Don Nygaard and Rich Menger, Baker teachers who are retiring. . . Two local wrestlers, Dalton Herbst and Trevor Griffith, competed at the ASICS/Las Vegas Open Wrestling Championship April 16-19. Dalton and Trevor both placed in three wrestling styles. . . Local officials in Carter County have reached a settlement with ONEOK Bakken Pipeline, LLC for damages to county roads caused in 2012 and 2013. The company voluntarily made some repairs on its own, and agreed to pay $454,532 to the County in full settlement of its liability. . . A NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course will be held May 31. This course meets the safety requirements for Montana Concealed Weapons Permit application.

May 30 -- Baker High School held their 99th commencement exercise May 25.

Jay Hoversland, BHS art teacher, gave the address to 25 seniors, family and friends.

Valedictorian was Mason Melby and Tori Nelson was salutatorian. . The Eastern Montana Economic Development Authority in Baker and Quantum Energy are announcing plans to explore opportunities to work together to design, develop, and build a Bakken Clean Energy Center in Fallon County. . . Primary Election will be held June 3.

Those running for local offices are: Sheriff - Randy Ketterling and Trenton Harbaugh; County Attorney - Darcy Pankratz and Albert Batterman; Commissioner - Kevin Braun and Deb Ranum. . .

Baker Spartan girls track team finished in second place at the Southern B Divisional Meet in Laurel, and the boys finished in third place. . . Picture: A pair of Canadian geese returned for the third year in row to a nesting spot near Baker and were finally successful in hatching three goslings. . . A benefit will be held for Logan Wyrick to help defray costs for a wheelchair, travel and lodging expenses to Washington for correctional surgery due to cerebral palsy.

June 6 -- Don Nygaard has retired from the Baker School System after 36 years of teaching. He was one of three fifth grade teachers for 22 years and then moved to a middle school position. . . Unofficial county Primary Election results show Deb Ranum defeated Kevin Braun for the Fallon County Commissioner seat, Trenton Harbaugh defeated Randy Ketterling for sheriff, Darcy Pankratz defeated Albert Batterman for county attorney. . . Eleventh annual Lights of Life was held June 1 at the Fallon Medical Complex Healing Garden in Baker. Thirty-six luminaries

were lit in memory of friends, loved ones, and relatives. . .

Kent Ehret and Kenneth Ehret presented Logan Wyrick with a wheelchair on behalf of Beaver Creek Rendezvous of Ekalaka. . . The 15th annual Baker Car Show and Shine drew 95 entries this past weekend, May 31. Classic cars from Montana, North and South Dakota were exhibited.

The Dakota Territory Club from Bowman, ND won the most vehicles award with seven entries. . . American Legion Auxiliary 2014 Poppy Poster Contest winners were Layla Koon, Hannah Goerndt, Nathan Hufford and Colin Lorbiecke.

June 13 -- Mary MacKay Ketchum was inducted into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame for making an impact on Montana’s Western Heritage for District 3. Mary was instrumental in paving the way for future barrel racers and her dedication to the event has influenced beginners to professional barrel racers throughout a four-state region and beyond. At the age of 73, Mary still rides daily on the ranch and still actively supports future generations of barrel racers. . . A single vehicle rollover crash the evening of June 9 injured four juveniles. The crash occurred one mile east of Baker on Shell Oil Road. . .

Timothy R. Grube has filed to run as an Independent candidate for the 2014 Fallon County Sheriff’s race. . . Hardware Hank will soon be Baker Ace Hardware and they will be adding firearms and sporting goods.

June 20 -- The new owners of Hardware Hank, Kyle and Emily Medearis, knew right away they wanted to be in Baker. They come from smaller towns and they wanted to be back in a small town.

They also plan to eventually become a dealership for UHaul services. . . Tri-Area Racing Association Bump-nRun was held at the Baker Motor Sports Complex June 15. More than 250 spectators enjoyed the races that 30 cars participated in. . . Relay for Life Garden and Yard Tour will be held June 22. . . Fallon County Emergency Medical Service members were recognized by outgoing director Lisa Mitchell and Fred Thomas, the new EMS director. Members were presented with first responder medical kits to keep in their personal vehicle in case they arrived on scene of an injury or accident before an ambulance had arrived. . James Brockmoller is the new manager at Equity Cooperative Association in Baker.

June 27 -- Nicole Allerdings of Plevna was chosen as the 2014 winner representing the Southeast Electric Cooperative. She won a trip to Washington, D.C. She joined 26 other Montana students representing 20 various rural electric cooperatives. . . May 14, ToyBox Preschool class of 2014 had 20 graduates. . . Fallon County Commissioners appointed Jerrid Geving to fill the vacancy on the fair board. . . Tori Parent was the winner of the grand prize - a boat - at the third annual Tom McGonigal Memorial Kids Fishing Day held June 21. Sean Loutzenhiser won the paddle boat. . . The 19th annual Baker Oilfield Open Golf Tournament was held June 13-14.

The first place team consisted of Josh Schwartz, Ryan Varner, Levi Johnson, Dustin Gundlach, Leo Miller, and Mike Welch. . . An EF-3 tornado touched down 30 miles south-southeast of Ekalaka near Capitol or around 13 miles southwest of Camp Crook, SD. Wind speeds were registered between 136 and 165 miles per hour. . . Baker Spartans Jonathan Wiseman, Dustin Irgens, Jeff Fisher, Jordan Walker, and Mason Melby participated in the All-Star Football Game held June 14 at Rocky Mountain College. . . A roping team from Baker took top honors at the Wrangler Team Roping event held at Belle Fourche, SD, June 1.

Tina Graham, header, and Gordon Rustad, heeler, contended among some strong teams to win the average and go-around.

July 4 -- The Community Fund Yard Sale sponsored by the Insurance Store June 27 exceeded the expectations of organizers. The yard sale, silent auction, games and lunch raised approximately $2,000 for the Community Fund. . . Carbon County Sheriff Tom Rieger, former Baker Police officer, received distinguished honors at the Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Asosciation Event in Bozeman May 29, when he was awarded the Distinguished Career plaque. Rieger has served 43 1/2 years in law enforcement. . . Residents of Superior Villa are pictured modeling hats they designed and decorated. . . 17th annual Mammo Whammo Golf Tournament first place team consisted of Joe Zacher, Bruce Essinger, Jessa Shepherd, and Damen Scherting. . . Dixie Rieger of Miles City claimed the $260,000 Wild Card jackpot from the June 25 drawing. . .

Bruha family reunion will be held July 12 at the Baker Senior Citizen Center. . . Montana State University president and MSU’s higher administration visited Baker June 25 on their annual tour of Montana. While in Baker they also stopped at a Denbury Resources location for a site visit.

July 11 -- The annual Fallon County Day sponsored by the Fallon County Recreation Department on the Fourth of July was another success. A variety of events throughout the day appealed to a broad range of spectators and participants of all ages. Nine teams participated in the volleyball tournament, and 14 teams in the horseshoe tournament.

The Kahuna Beach Party band YEAR END REVIEW performed a beach party conCONTINUED NEXT WEEK

FALLON COUNTY TIMES

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015

CLASSIFIED fctimes@midrivers.com 406-778-3344

REAL ESTATE Jim Hurley Broker, Owner Home 406-778-3735

Brown Indian Trail Ranch JudySales Cell Realty, LLC 406-891-0133

406-778-2402

NEW LISTINGS! New Centennial Home - 3 bdrm, 3 bath washer/dryer on 10 acers. Well, septic, & electric already in. 6 miles West of Baker $250,000 2 bdrm, 1 bath, new siding, roof, windows, kitchen, & carpet, 1 car detached garage. 416 South 1st Street West $179,000 Fixer Upper, 4 bdrm, 1 bath, oversized lot, mobile hookup in back. 29 W. Sewall Av $90,000 Price reduction $82,000 $62,000 Four five acre plots west of Baker in a prime new subdivision. All four plots will have access to one new water well. Priced Right 2 vacant lots on Main St. in Baker, MT. Lot 17 and 19 S. Main - Call for Details

SOLD

WANTED ____________________________ WANT TO PURCHASE: Minerals and other oil/gas interests.

Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201.

37-36p ___________________________ WANTED: Will buy junk cars and scrap metal. Please call 701928-0325. Please leave a message.

22tfp

FOR RENT ___________________________ FOR RENT: 2010 two bedroom trailer. $750/month. Call 406978-2514.

51tfc

FOR SALE ___________________________ FOR SALE: Four bedroom home with one and one-half baths, large back yard overlooking lake.

Call 406-891-0467 for more inquiries.

52-3p

HELP WANTED ____________________________ HELP WANTED: Farmworker, 3/1/15 - 12/15/15, CLF, Inc., Fullerton, ND. Five temp jobs. Drive trucks/tractors to perform crop raising duties. Field ready equip. Harvest crops. Plant, cultivate crops using tractor drawn machinery. Operate, repair farm equip. Haul grain to market. Employment ref, three mo exp, driver’s license required.

Must speak/understand English. $15.25/hr, 3/4 work guarantee, tools/equip/housing provided, trans and subsistence exp reimbursed.

Apply at Job Service, 406-3773314. Job #391944.

1p ___________________________ HELP WANTED: Batterman Law Offices, P.C. has an immediate opening for a self-motivated person to work in its Baker office as an administrative assistant. The position requires familiarity with Word, Excel, Quickbooks, and basic office equipment. An interest in and knowledge of the legal system is a plus. Employer will train. The position can be full or part time, depending on fit and interest. Wage dependent upon experience, some benefits available. Submit resume and cover letter to Rich Batterman at P.O. Box 985, Baker, MT 59313, or leave it at the office at 12 East Montana Avenue in Baker. Batterman Law Offices, P.C. is a general practice law firm with offices in Baker and Glendive, and also serves as the City Attorney for the City of Baker.

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CARDS OF THANKS ____________________________ CARD OF THANKS: Thank you for all your phone calls, kind words, cards, memorial donations, texts and email messages following the death of our mother and grandmother, Florence Wiseman. Special thank you to Pastors Bruce and Reba and Stevenson Funeral Home for their assistance and services, and to Dr. Espeland and Dr. Drivdahl and the staffs at Superior Care Villa and Fallon Medical Complex for their outstanding and compassionate care.

Roy and Sharon Ferrel and family Darlene and Owen Stieg and family Jim and Norma Ferrel 1c ____________________________ CARD OF THANKS: It has been a blessing serving Fallon County.

Thank you to all who helped make my retirement party a success.

Thanks for the flowers, gifts, and all the good wishes.

Arlene Singer 1c ____________________________ CARD OF THANKS: I would like to thank the Baker Chamber for the $100 in Baker Bucks I won in their drawing.

Rose Sampson 1c

LEGALS ____________________________ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The City of Baker, Montana will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, January 21, 2015, at 7;30 p.m. in the Fallon County Courtroom at 10 Fallon Avenue SW in Baker, Montana.

The purpose of the hearing is to accept public comment on the proposal to repeal City of Baker Ordinance #292 Floodplain and Floodway Management Ordinance for Communities with Designated Floodways as amended 2/25/1991 and replace with Ordinance #363 an ordinance to adopt the 2014 City of Baker Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations. This is due to important changes having been made to federal and state laws and regulations so that it is necessary for the City of Baker to remain in compliance with the Montana Floodplain and Floodway Management Act and the requirements for continued participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

Pursuant, in part, to MCA 76-5-301 Land Use Regulations. Floodplain permitting fees will also be considered an addendum to these proposed regulations. At that time any

person may appear to comment or submit written testimony concerning these proposals.

The above referenced documents are available to the public at the Office of the City Clerk at Room 120, 10 Fallon Avenue SW in Baker, Montana during regular business hours. Please direct all questions or comments to City Clerk, Kevin J. Dukart, at 406-778-2692 or P.O. Box 1512, Baker, MT 59313. s/Kevin J. Dukart Clerk/Treasurer City of Baker 1-3c

MNAXLP ___________________________ 00 00 20 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Notice to Contractors: Sealed bids will be received by the Fallon Medical Complex, Baker, Montana, in the CEO’s office at 202 S. 4th, Baker, Montana, until Thursday, January 15, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. for the construction of FMC LTC Basement Remodel, Fallon Medical Complex, Baker, Montana. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at this time.

State and Federal Statute Compliance: Each bidder will comply with all fair labor practices and state statutes.

ADA/EEO: Request accommodation or additional information from David Espeland, CEO, Fallon Medical Complex, 202 S. 4th, Baker, MT 59313, 406-778-2833 (voice) or 406-778-2488 (fax), by noon January 8, 2015. Alternative accesible formats of this notice are available upon request.

Bid Security: Each bid will be accompanied by Bid Security in the amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the bid.

Performance, Labor & Material Bond: Successful bidders shall, upon signature of the contract, fur-

ADS

nish an approved Performance Bond, and Labor & Material Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract.

Contract Documents: Drawings and specifications, including Bidding Documents and Conditions of the Agreement, may be examined at the office of the architect, Stevenson Design, 909 Main Street, Miles City, MT 59301, phone 406-2340777. A refundable deposit of $100 is required for each plan set.

Pre-Bid Walk-Thru: A pre-bid walk-thru of the areas being remodeled will be conducted by the architect on Thursday, January 8, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. Attendance is mandatory for general contractors. The lack of inspection of the conditions under which the contract will be performed will be considered in award of bids and review of subcontractors.

Withdrawal of Bids: No bidder may withdraw his bid for at least thirty (30) days after the scheduled time for receipt of bids, except as noted in the Instructions to Bidders.

Right to Reject Bids: The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive informalities, to evaluate the bids submitted and to accept the proposal which best serves the interests of the Owner. 52-2c

MNAXLP ____________________________ Consultant and Professional Engineering Service Statement of Qualifications (SOQ)/ Request for Proposal (RFP) ADVERTISEMENT Fallon County has received approval from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) to develop a federal-aid Community Transportation Enhancement Program (CTEP) project titled Fallon

HELP WANTED

Farmers Union of Baker is hiring customer friendly Shop help Come join a fun, creative atmosphere!

Stop in or call 406-778-2519

BOOKKEEPER/CONTROLER Farmers Union Oil Company, a member-owned cooperative in Baker, MT is seeking a motivated professional to lead the financial operations of the company. Position is responsible for day-to-day accounting operations to include the management of processes, procedures and accounting personnel. Duties include but are not limited to: prepare and oversee financial statements, manage general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and cash management.

Benefits include 401(K), Health Insurance, Holidays, Vacation, Life Insurance, Longterm Disability Required Skills Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent, two to four years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Working knowledge of data collection, data analysis, evaluation, and financial statements. Demonstrated ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, and percentages.Commitment to excellence and high standards. Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Ability to manage priorities and workflow. Versality, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm. Acute attention to detail. Proficient on Excel and Word. Ability to deal effectively with a diversity of individuals at all organizational levels. Good judgement with the ability to make timely and sound decisions.

Send resume by Friday, January 9, 2015 to Farmers Union Oil Company, Attn: Travis Mashak, P.O. Box 1000, Baker, MT 59313 Email: Cenexgm@midrivers.com Phone: 406-778-2519

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HELP WANTED FOR SALE FOR RENT WANTED THANKS REAL ESTATE

County CTEP. The Fallon County Commission is requesting proposals and statements of qualifications for planning and construction engineering services to assist Fallon County in the design and oversight of construction of the CTEP Project; which will consist of demolition and reconstruction of sidewalk, curb and gutter in residential area of Baker; period lighting and safety fence at Plevna Park; installation of pedestrian activated signal and signage at Plevna School crossing. The Project will be completed in compliance with all applicable requirements under the MDT CTEP. Copies of the detailed request for Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) and Request for Proposals (RFP), including a description of the services to be provided by respondents, the minimum content of responses, and the factors to be used to evaluate the responses, can be obtained by contacting: Fallon County Clerk and Recorder, Attn: Fallon County

CTEP, PO Box 846, Baker, MT 59313; 406-778-7106.

All responses to the detailed request for SOQs and RFPs must be submitted by Friday, January 16, 2015, 2 p.m. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled time for public opening of bids, which is Tuesday, January 20, 2015, at 3:00 PM, MST. Each bid must expressly provide that, if awarded the contact, the bidder will enter into a formal contract with Fallon County within (30) days of the award.

Fallon County reserves the right to reject any or all bids received, to waive informalities, to postpone the award of the contract for a period of time not to exceed thirty (30) days and to accept the lowest responsible bid which is in the best interest of Fallon County, applying the preference provisions of Section 18-1-102 M.C.A., where applicable.

52-2c

MNAXLP

Tammy O’Donnell

Your Finder Sales Representative “I can make it easy for you to advertise in the Finder. Call me anytime!”

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Fallon County Times

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8 - FALLON COUNTY TIMES

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2015

Community Cupboard shelves filled again Looking back and ahead

By Lori Kesinger Before Thanksgiving the shelves were practically empty at the Community Cupboard in Baker. Tiffany Davis, Council on Aging Assistant, wondered if there would be any food assistance available to those in need during the holiday season.

Fortunately, numerous individuals, groups and organizations responded to the need.

The shelves have been restocked and many people received food assistance for the holidays.

“I’m amazed. really amazed,” Davis said. “People who haven’t thought about it or didn’t even know we had a food bank have generously given.”

“There have been a lot of lay-offs lately so we have had an upswing in people needing help,” Davis added.

Photo by Lori Kesinger

Shelves which were empty before Thanksgiving are now re-stocked to provide assistance for those in need of food.

The Community Cupboard, located at the Senior Citizens Center, is a local food bank program for residents of Fallon County. The items are stocked by food and monetary donations from the com-

munity for the community.

The Community Cupboard receives most of its food donations during this time of year, but there is always a need. Anyone can donate anytime at 420 W. Montana Ave.,

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed during lunch hours noon to 1 p.m.

For more information or questions, contact Tiffany Davis at 406-778-2358 or 406-778-2600.

Baker woman claims $50,000 Powerball prize Helena - Lacy Strohmeyer is ringing in the new year with an extra $50,000 claimed from the December 20 Powerball drawing. The ticket was purchased at Reynolds Market, Lake City Shopping Center, Baker.

Lacy, having found out she won right after the drawing, had some time to think about how to spend her winnings. She plans to use most of the winnings to buy a house. Lacy’s win is even sweeter because she chose to pay the extra $1.00 for the Power Play option, which multiplies any nonjackpot wins up to 5X. This

changed her ticket from a $10,000 win to a $50,000 win.

Although this is Lacy’s first big Lottery win, she enjoys playing Montana Lottery games regularly. She advises other players that “it can happen!” Powerball drawings are held every Wednesday and Saturday night with a current jackpot of $120,000,000.

The Montana Lottery was created by referendum in 1986. Since then, it has paid over $483 million in prizes and returned approximately $217 million to the State of Montana.

Santa Claus surprised residents of Superior Care Villa Christmas evening by delivering presents and Superior Care Villa’s very own Christmas elf is Ray- treats. Santa said everyone at the Villa was on the nice list. Pictured is Nora Pratt with Santa. mond Earsley. He stopped by for a quick photo.

Legislature CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

commissioner of higher education are looking to keep the price of a college education steady for instate students by freezing tuition at its current rates.

Bullock is also proposing that ten percent of state money going to the university system be based on the campuses meeting goals for retaining and graduating students, boosting dual enrollment programs for high school students, helping remedial students at twoyear colleges, and increasing research and development efforts.

Kevin McRae, communications director for the commissioner’s office, said the governor’s plan would maintain current tuition levels for the next two years. The state would cover about 40 percent of tuition costs, with students or their parents providing the rest.

The university system also wants $15 million for research grant funding. The money would be available to all of the campuses for their research efforts.

Taxation Property taxes may be a hot topic this session due to the recent statewide property reappraisal.

Montana property is reappraised for tax purposes every six years.

What usually follows is a debate over how to keep rising land values from leading automatically to higher property taxes.

What’s different this time is that average value of residential property statewide dropped by 2.85 percent, something state officials say hasn’t happened in decades.

Property in Montana’s oil-producing counties skyrocketed but dropped in most urban counties.

The effect that could have on

local governments and schools, which depend heavily on property taxes, remains to be seen. Expect lawmakers to look for ways to soften the blow on taxpayers in areas where values have risen.

Meanwhile, Mary Ann Dunwell, a spokeswoman for the Montana Department of Revenue, said her department will ask lawmakers to shrink the reappraisal cycle from every six years to every two years.

“A two-year cycle is more helpful with respect to making sure the property taxes you're paying are up to market value,” she said.

The department also expects a request from factories to cut property taxes on equipment they were required to install to reduce pollution.

Glenn Oppel of the Montana Chamber of Commerce said Ash Grove, a Helena cement and construction company, was required

to install equipment to limit carbon emissions, and was subsequently taxed on the value that equipment. “Our rationale,” he said, “is that you shouldn't be taxed on something you have to install.”

Effects of the oil boom Last session, eastern Montana’s oil-boom cities and counties were more than frustrated when Gov. Bullock vetoed additional money to help them keep up with the impact on roads, jails and other infrastructure caused by an influx of oil-workers and equipment.

“That killed us,” said former Sidney Mayor Bret Smelser. “I have $16 million in the infrastructure that needs to be taken care of.” He’s not optimistic about this session, either. However, the Montana League of Cities and Towns is lobbying to give oil-rich communities more money for

Closing at 1 p.m.

New Years Eve We will be closed January 1 - 7 for inventory & computer updates.

We will re-open Thursday, January 8 with regular hours.

roads and buildings through something like the special taxes that help towns like Whitefish cope with the impacts of tourism.

“We want that tool for towns of all municipalities,” said David Nielsen, the league's interim executive director.

More money for Bakken-area infrastructure is included in Gov. Bullock’s new $300 million building proposal. A combination of bond sales and cash would finance construction projects statewide.

By Bob Hanson, President Montana Farm Bureau Federation Agriculture and Farm Bureau can look back at 2014 as being a good year. We saw a lot of unity with farmers, ranchers, municipalities, businesses, and others coming together to oppose EPA’s Water of the United States (WOTUS) Rule, which is a great overreach of power by a government agency. Hundreds of thousands of comments were sent in by Farm Bureau members across the country who want to “Ditch the Rule”. Not only did Montana Farm Bureau members step up to the plate on this issue, Montana’s Attorney General wrote a letter in opposition. Even if you’re not a farmer or rancher and you believe this rule won’t hurt you, think again. Everyone will be affected by it.

We saw a historic agreement with farm groups and agricultural technology companies and farm groups on farm data privacy and security principles.

Farmers and ranchers overwhelmingly agree they should own their own farm data, and Farm Bureau has played a leading role in educating them about asking the right questions before signing data sharing agreements.

Farmers and ranchers need to embrace new technology to keep producing food, and many find that biotechnology can help them reduce inputs and increase yields. That is why in the recent elections it was good to see voters in Colorado and Oregon recognized that state initiatives requiring that “GMO” products be labeled as such would do more harm than good. Rather than a state-bystate or county-by-county patchwork, we support a national labeling bill introduced in Congress. Consumers absolutely have a right to know what’s in their food, but the information should be based on facts, no fear.

Although tax provisions have been extended, we need to make some of these provisions permanent so farmers and ranchers can plan for the coming year. Farmers depend on tax incentives like bonus depreciation to increase their cash flow and allow them to pur-

chase equipment without taking on too much debt. Restoring these provisions would help boost rural economies as farmers and ranchers plan their business decisions for the next season.

Looking Ahead There are always unknown challenges, but Farm Bureau members can meet these challenges in the coming year.

Leaders on both sides of the Atlantic agree that a more open trade partnership makes sense, so it’s time the European Union puts politics aside and eliminates non-scientific barriers to trade. Any successful trade agreement must open restricted markets and encourage fair competition for all. As I can never say enough, trade is key to the economic future of Montana. Canada and Mexico are our top trading partners, and 80 percent of our grain and 60 percent of our agricultural commodities in general are exported. We need to ensure the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) pass. This way, even when elections are made and regimes are changed across the globe, trade is not negatively impacted and Montana farmers can continue to enjoy the economic success of shipping their products to international markets.

There will continue to be the challenges in 2015 especially by those who want to see agriculture go back to the “old days and old ways” with small farms raising a few chickens and the farmer in coveralls with ten dairy cows trying to feed the predicted nine billion people by 2050. Sorry to disappoint those who wrongly think that modern agriculture is bad, but our 97 percent family-owned farms and ranches will be moving ahead with technology like everyone else. What’s really exciting is seeing so many young people showing great interest, energy and ability to continue producing food and fiber for the world. I believe farming and ranching is in very good hands in the future, and that’s something we can all be pleased about.

Here’s to a happy and successful New Year!

Baker Recreation Center C h r ist m a s Sp e c ia l Dec. 18, 2014 - Jan. 4, 2015

* Purchase a 3-month membership, receive 1 month free

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