City begins George Avenue drainage repair project Staff Report
City workers start cutting through the street as the George Avenue drainage repair project begins Oct. 15 just west of the Lincoln School property. PHOTOS/Brad Mosher
The City of Baker has started work to improve drainage along George Avenue near the Baker High School campus. The city already has closed the block between First Street West and Second Street West to through traffic. City workers started cutting through the asphalt Oct. 15 just west of the Lincoln School property and Mayor Steve Zachmann has said that the project will probably take about three weeks to complete and should be finished by early to mid-November. “The excavation will be on the south side of the street,” he added. “We plan to cover the trench each day as much as possible so we don’t have any large open excavations. “We will dig and place the drainpipe, then cover that as we go,” he said. During that time, the residents and other may
be affected by the project. “There will be disruption of traffic for dropping off kids at the school,” the mayor explained before the project began. The city has been working with the school to mitigate the impact of the work, he added. “There will be rerouting for the drop off and pick up of students....,” he said. That it will affect both buses and how parents can pick up the students. “We have just two houses with driveways that enter onto that street. It will affect them directly. It won’t be during the full three week stretch, It will just be as we cross in front of their driveways. “The only place we are tearing up the sidewalk will be just where the drainage enters the south side of the Lincoln School property,” the mayor explained. The city is coordinating with the property owners who have driveways accessing the street, the mayor said.
Breast cancer awareness luncheon canceled The 2020 October Breast Cancer Awareness Soup and Luncheon event has been canceled because of COVID-19 guidelines currently in effect in Fallon County. However, the luncheon will be returning on Oct. 7 in 2021, according to organizers. According to a Facebook post, the group is still taking orders for the year’s Breast Cancer Awareness t-shirt. They are also still taking donations. The luncheon was canceled due to the social distancing
guidelines that are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. According to Karol Zachmann, the group is still promoting Breast Cancer Awareness for the month of October. “It is about all we can do (because of COVID-19). “We had a big event planned,” she added. Now, she said that hopefully the response will carry over to online and October 2021. “Hopefully, it (the pandemic) will be all done and gone by then,” Zachmann said.
Gift filled shoe boxes begin International journey in Fallon County By Jolinda Allerdings
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted life for millions of adults and children around the world. Yet, Samaritan’s Purse continues to share the eternal hope of the Gospel and to serve in Jesus’ Name. Many Fallon County and Carter County churches partner with Samaritan’s Purse by packing shoe boxes with toys, school supplies and hygiene items. These shoeboxes are shipped to Operation Christmas Child processing centers before Thanksgiving. For the twelfth year, The Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church in Plevna will be a drop off site for shoe boxes. During National Collection week Nov. 16-20, the Emmanuel E. Free Church will be open 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Friday to receive filled boxes. The average total received at Emanuel E. Free Church is 100 filled boxes per year. The Lakeview Baptist Church in Baker annually fills 100 boxes, too. “We want boys and girls around the world to know that God loves them and has not forgotten them during this time of fear and uncertainty. Children need great joy now more than ever. Most of all, they need the hope found only in the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” reports OCC staff. “In a new initiative, we are going island to island in the Pacific to take the Gospel to half a million children over the next few years. We’re going to hard to reach places to make His Name known,” writes Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan’s Purse. Many boys and girls who receive shoe box gifts also participate in the Greatest Journey, a 12 lesson follow up discipleship course in their own language. OCC partners with churches around the world to distribute the gifts and teach the Greatest Journey. Many of the children have never received a Christmas gift or heard of Jesus. Suggested gift items include: small stuffed animals, shorts, t-shirts, school supplies, stickers, reusable cups, drawstring bags, sticky notes, wash cloths, coloring books, card games, socks, water bottles. Do not include candy, toothpaste, liquids or food. You may include a letter to the child and a photo of your family. If you include your address the child may write you back. Pray that each gift will touch the entire family and their community, transforming their community by the power of the Gospel. Contact Jolinda Allerdings in the evenings at 406-772-5882 for a brochure on how to pack a shoe box. To pack a shoebox online connect to www. Samaritanspurse.org.
Moonlight Madness draws people downtown
Staff Report
The annual Moonlight Madness was a big draw for downtown businesses again Oct. 14, filling up downtown parking spots. According to Karol Zachmann, the prime rib dinner sponsored by the Baker Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture was a success even though it drew a smaller crowd and there was physical distancing between the families choosing to eat inside Thee Garage. In addition to prime rib, the meal offered beans, coleslaw and dessert to people who
stopped by. The group also offered curbside-pickup and takeaways for customers. Other businesses along Main Street such as Baker Drug, Russell’s Clothing and Baker Furniture also had special events or sales to hopefully draw in the customers. At Baker Furniture, it was a sign of the times... and of life with a pandemic in a small town. “It is an annual event that we have done here in Baker for so long it still brings some people in.” “In my opinion, it was successful. I would say the mask
mandate maybe cut down on floor traffic, but all in all, we were happy with the outcome. You have got to take it day by day and do the best that you can,” said one of the store owners, Tom Stevens. Still, the store made some changes because of the current pandemic. “Normally, we have homemade cookies. Normally, my mother bakes, my motherin-law bakes and a lot of the ladies who work here bake,” he said. However, COVID-19 brought some changes. “This year we went to bought cookies that were all individually wrapped. We
had them spread out throughout the store. We had coffee in one area and other refreshments in another area. We did our best to try to encourage social distancing. “The health department furnished us with extra masks and hand sanitizers. That is the way that we approached it,” Stevens said. “We were happy with the turnout. We didn’t know what to expect. Once the mask mandate was put into effect locally, there was a significant decrease in our floor traffic,” he said, noting that it may take time for the people to come out again.
2
October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
OBITUARIES
Meghan Erickson, 40
Funeral Service for Meghan “Meg” Erickson, 40, of Sidney, formerly of Baker, were held on Oct. 19, 2020 at Stevenson Funeral Home, Baker with Tom Stieg officiating. Meghan Kim Erickson “Meg” passed away Oct. 15, 2020 with her family by her side, holding her hand. Meg passed after a hard fought three year battle with metastatic melanoma. Meghan was the first child of Arnie and Garnee Erickson. She lived on the family farm west of Willard, MT. Meghan was very fortunate to have the best babysitters, Tom and Kathy Stieg who she remained close to throughout her life. Later Meghan was joined there by her little brother Dusty. Meghan’s Dad was killed when she was five years old. Meg and her family moved into Ekalaka where she started school, until moving to her family home on the 101 Road. Meg was active in 4-H, FFA and Special Olympics. One of her proudest moments being when she won the “Herdsman
Award” at the fair along with her Grand Champion market lamb. School was a huge struggle for Meg. Meghan skipped eighth grade to place her with older classmates in attempts to cut down on bullying, teasing and name calling. True bravery is being kind to people who are mean to you. Meg always forgave those people. Meg graduated in 1998 and went to DCC in Glendive for a short period of time. Meghan struggled with life until she moved to Sidney and became a client of ROI and lived at TLC. For the first time in Meg’s life she had true friends and people who genuinely cared about her and accepted her for who she was. Meghan lived there the last 13 years. When we knew cancer was going to take her Meg wanted to get back home to TLC. Her roommates tried their best to comfort her and care for her. Here Meg and her family witnessed some of the wisest, most compassionate people to have ever crossed Meg’s path in life. Special thanks to Michael, Sugar, Steph, John, Rita and Vicky for all you did for Meg and her family. Thank you to the staff who were like surrogate parents for Meghan. Also, thank you Lori for watching over Meg and doing all you could to keep Meg’s pain under control. It is impossible to describe the love and compassion Meghan had for people, no matter where she was. Meghan was devastated
when she found out organ transplant was not an option for her because of the metastatic melanoma. Meghan fought hard the last three years trying to beat melanoma. She never stopped her fight until the last few minutes of her life. She had a faith in God and would often dream that her Dad was waiting until it was time to come get her and take her to heaven. The time was finally right. Meg leaves many friends and family who will never forget her kindness, compassion, determination and that SMILE!! Meg is survived by her mother Garnee and stepfather Roy Olsen; brother, Dusty Erickson; stepbrothers, Clint (Kodi) and Casey (Heather) Olsen; stepsister, Kayla Olsen; niece Jasmine Erickson; nephews, Justin Erickson, Kane and Cord Olsen, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Arnie Erickson; grandparents, Rodger and Fern Myhre and Roy and Tillie Erickson; uncles Gene and Wally; cousin, K.J. Meghan’s family is very grateful to all of Meg’s healthcare teams, both at the Sidney and Glendive hospitals and the Sidney Cancer Center. A special thanks to Heather Stopani and Christa Veltman for all the care you have given Meghan, not only these last couple of days but the last three years. Your kindness and compassion were greatly appreciated!
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
By Sharla Tester
The drive from Big Sandy to Great Falls is awfully familiar to our family. Jon drives those 70-some miles twice a week as he travels between our farm and the Senate. Often we drive together - for farm parts, haircuts, you name it. The drive is second nature. But lately, it has taken on a new meaning. Because in early spring of this year, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I found the cancer as many women do, with a lump. But I had a bit of a head start: breast cancer runs in my family – both my grandmothers had breast cancer, and my grandmother on my mother’s side, my mother, my sister, myself, and my daughter all have the same breast cancer gene. The knowledge that it’s genetic has helped serve as preventative medicine for our family - once I knew I was likely to get it, it empowered me to know what to look for and get screened regularly. Cancer doesn’t discriminate between gender or age, and breast cancer is no exception. Men get it too, and it isn’t shameful to talk about it, because men need to be aware of their own risk factors. When it comes to breast cancer, monthly self-examinations are critical, because if caught early, it can save your life. I knew from the beginning that my prognosis was good, and was lucky to feel full mostly of hope, not fear. This month, I completed my final round of chemotherapy, and I have been very lucky to have few side effects. My husband and kids have been a remarkable support system. The love and support of my family gave me the strength to face the uncertainties of cancer head-on.
And at the end of the day, I know that I’m fortunate. Fortunate to have been blessed by the doctors, nurses, and health care workers at Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute in Great Falls that have given me top-notch care every step of the way. They were both professional, and personal, and made sure that every time I walked in those doors I never felt a sense of doom and gloom. And I feel more fortunate, still, that in a state where some folks have to travel for hundreds of miles to receive care, our 70some mile drive was a pretty short hop. And when you’re counting your blessings, it’s hard not to consider those that aren’t as fortunate. How many Montanans face the fear of cancer diagnosis without the security of affordable health care? How many folks skip cancer screenings or go without treatment because a trip to the doctor would mean the choice between paying a medical bill or putting food on the table? It’s only fitting that I received the last of my treatment during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage everyone, women and men alike, to use this month as a reminder to take precautionary steps. Check yourself often. Get regular screenings. Early detection can save your life. Now that my treatment is finished, the drive to Great Falls will be easier again. I still have work in front of me and the outlook is promising. But the many cancer patients with a tough road ahead will still be on my mind and in my prayers. I am not fighting my battle alone, and no Montanan ever should. Sharla Tester is a farmer living and working in Big Sandy. She is married to U.S. Senator Jon Tester.
The Reality of COVID-19 Submitted by Billings Clinic
On a brisk October morning, two of the five children of Stacey and Eloise Stewart, Jr. made a two-hour drive to Billings to see their parents, who both are hospitalized with COVID-19, at Billings Clinic, Montana’s largest hospital and trauma center. It was an historic day for Billings Clinic – the COVID-19 surge was breaking records. The hospital’s 24-room Intensive Care Unit had been hovering at or near capacity, and the decision was made to activate its surge plan to place two critically ill patients in the same ICU room. While Billings Clinic is expanding its ICU by adding four new rooms and has extended its capabilities to care for critically ill patients in other locations such as the Cardiovascular Unit, demand for ICU-level care was outpacing availability. That morning, children of the Stewart family had been called by the ICU team to visit about their parents. Each parent was in the ICU on a ventilator in separate rooms down the hall from one another. Another critically ill patient was about to come out of surgery who also needed ICU care, so after careful review of many factors, it was determined that Mr. and Mrs. Stewart were the best candidates to be the first to share a precious ICU room. After visiting by phone with the family, by mid-day, a detailed plan to transform the room into a space to care for two patients was complete. Installation of the complex technology, physical infrastructure, and processes for care were finished, and the clinical staff was ready. A team of ICU nurses, outfitted in the necessary PPE, carefully surrounded Mrs. Stewart and guided her bed, along with the life-saving technology, down the ICU corridor to join her husband and share his room at the end of the hallway. United in the room, the couple became the first double-occupancy ICU patients since the unit opened. All of the technology worked as planned, and their intensive care continued, husband and wife lying silently in separate high-tech beds next to one another. Meanwhile, hardworking staff from environmental services went to work immediately to get the newly available ICU room ready to be home to another critically ill patient. A few hours later, two of the Stewarts’ daughters met with Deanna Evans, RN, a compassionate nurse leader of the ICU. The daughters had their other siblings on the phone listening to Deanna as they were also pasting photos onto a large card to be placed in their parents’ room. It was time for
them to make their way down the hall to see their parents together in one room, fighting for their lives. For one of the daughters, it was an experience she knew all too well. Her husband had recently passed away from complications of COVID-19. Deanna thoughtfully explained what to expect and introduced them to the nurse who was caring for their parents. Because of staffing shortages due to high patient volumes and a number of staff quarantined, this nurse happened to be a traveling ICU nurse who is at Billings Clinic temporarily to help with the high volumes. According to Deanna, this particular nurse has years of critical care experience and is well qualified to handle the serious nature of how the virus is impacting their parents, especially their father at that time. After they had time to visit with the nurse while standing outside their parents’ room, they took a few minutes to look through the window at their mother and father, projecting their faith and healing spirit through the glass. It was hard for the siblings to see their parents in this condition knowing they are a very independent, hardworking couple who provide for themselves and their family. Due to time constraints put in place to keep ICU visitors safe, they couldn’t stay long. They made their way back to the lobby of the ICU and visited a bit more with Deanna. They would soon call their siblings for an update and were planning to make the two-hour drive home that evening before returning to the hospital the next morning. Although very private people, they decided as a family to share their story as a way to help convince people in Montana to take additional action to prevent the spread of this devastating virus. At the time of their visit to the ICU, Billings Clinic’s hospital was experiencing the highest peak of COVID-19 patients since March. On the same day, 130 of the Clinic’s staff were out of work on quarantine - 70 from the hospital. Billings Clinic is bringing in approximately 75 temporary staff from across the nation next week to help and is expanding capacity to serve the needs of the multistate region its serves, but there are limits. More focus on prevention by members of the public are needed or more loved ones and bedside staff will be at risk. The Stewart family encourages our communities to “take this virus seriously and practice safety protocols by wearing masks, staying home when sick, washing hands, and practicing social distancing.” The family members went on to say, “This virus does not discriminate based on age or ethnicity.”
Montana State to offer interim winter semester known as ‘Snowmester’ By Anne Cantrell, MSU News Service
For the first time in modern history, Montana State University will offer an interim winter semester in between the fall and spring semesters. This year’s “Snowmester” will run Monday, Nov. 30, through Friday, Jan. 8. Snowmester is an opportunity for students to catch up, stay on track or get ahead of their coursework while taking advantage of the long winter break, said Robert Mokwa, MSU executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “We are very excited to offer Snowmester as an option for our students,” Mokwa said. “This interim winter semester, which is happening this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrates MSU’s agility and strength in adapting to meet the needs of our students during these times.” More than 90 courses will be
offered during the Snowmester. Mokwa said classes will be offered mostly online, although some hands-on courses, such as welding courses and workforce development courses, may be held face-to-face. Many of the offerings during Snowmester will be core courses that are foundational for student success or crucial prerequisites, Mokwa noted. “We are delighted by the breadth of courses available during Snowmester and appreciate the efforts of Montana State’s faculty and staff in making these courses possible,” Mokwa said. The program fee for Snowmester courses is $250 per credit hour and will be considered part of students’ spring semester bill. That means that students registered for 12 or more credit hours during the spring semester will not incur tuition charges for Snowmester courses. MSU’s academic calendar
is altered this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The university’s fall semester began two weeks early and will end before Thanksgiving. MSU’s winter break this year will start on Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, and go until the first day of the spring semester on Jan. 11, 2021. University officials previously noted that starting the fall semester two weeks earlier enabled MSU to take advantage of a period of expected lower case rates as well as excellent weather. The adjusted dates also eliminated the need for students, faculty and staff to travel between the Thanksgiving holiday and the conclusion of the fall semester. The calendar of Snowmester courses will be available Friday, Oct. 16. Registration for Snowmester and for the spring 2021 semester begins on Oct. 26. For more information, visit montana.edu/snowmester.
October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
FILES OF THE TIMES 10 YEARS AGO Friday, October 22, 2010 --
Beta Sigma Phi Sororities have decided to change the Fallon County Community Fund Drive to the spring of 2011. . .Two vehicles collided at the intersection of County Road 301 and CountyRoad 322 Oct. 18. Two people sustained injuries and were transported to Fallon Medical Complex and later life flighted to Billings. . .Alycia Conroy, daughter of Kirk and Rochelle Conroy of Baker, participated in the Second Annual Badlands Summer Series in Rhame, ND this summer. Alycia and her horse Fiddle were the top barrel race and pole bender for the series. . .Local Punt, Pass & Kick winners at the sectional competition in Miles City Oct. 3 were Alissa Bohle, Scotti Jo Robinson, Joe Fisher, Paitton Herbst and Mason Melby. . .As of Nov. 1 Reynolds Market will close at 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. They feel the change is necessary due to the labor issues they are experiencing. . .No mold exists at Quality Personal Care. In July a contractor inspected the facility to assess a leak in the living room area. He believed he found a suspected mold problem. The state notified the facility the problem had to be fixed right away or the facility’s license would be revoked. In August a company from Bismarck, ND inspected the QPC and found no visual signs of mold.
20 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 27, 2000 --
Baker Spartans play Boulder in the first round playoff game Oct. 28 in Baker. . .Annual Pancake and Sausage Supper at the Plevna Fire Hall will he held Oct 28. . .Mountain Standard Time returns Oct. 29. . .Lori Hickey of Baker is pictured checking out the electric utility vehicle owned by Steve Baldwin. Steve uses his electric vehicle to run errands and pick up parts for his business. . .Due to price increases in postage and paper, the Fallon County Times will raise subscription rates effective Jan 1. The new rates will be $28 for one year in the trade area. . .David Hoenke of Ismay was the winner of the 12-gauge Winchester shotgun. The Ivomec sponsored drawing was held at the Fallon County Veterinary Clinic and the gun was presented to David by Marvel Murphy. . .Oct. 23, Republican candidate for Lt. Governor Karl Ohs; Leo Giacometto; and Keith Bales, candidate for District #1 representative, flew in to Baker to meet with area constituents at the Senior Center. Ohs and Giacometto are traveling with Sen. Conrad Burns’ bus tour which plans to visit most of Montana’s cities and town in the remaining days
before the election. . .The Baker High School classes of 2004 and 2005 donated money from their Humanities fundraiser to the skate park that is part of the Millennium Project. . .Plevna School District #55 has an opening for an assistant high school boys’ basketball coach. . .Baker Volunteer Fire Department was called to the Jerry Sikorski ranch south of Baker Oct. 23. A grass fire from hot exhaust on a hunter’s vehicle burned a minimal area and was quickly extinguished.
30 YEARS AGO
Thursday, October 25, 1990 --
This week there have been many visitors in Baker, but not all of them were hunters. A crew from CBS Network News has been in town visiting with local residents and filming scenes, some of which will be used for a special about small towns that are losing population and what they are doing about it. . .Baker High School students Lisa Njos and Bob Wheeler went to the grade schools Monday to help youngsters celebrate Red Ribbon Week, a national celebration to promote a drug-free America. . .Jerry Townsend was honored with the Marvin Heintz Award. It is the highest award the Montana School Boards Association confers upon trustees. Jerry has been a member of the Baker School Board for six years and has served as its chairman for the past five years. . .The new smoke-free policy at Fallon Medical Complex will go into effect Nov. 15. . .First round football playoff game will be held Oct. 26 at the Baker High School football field against Columbus.
40 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 23, 1980 --
Pictured is John Lizer with his grand champion ram which won the award at the NILE. He is a member of the Double or Nothing 4-H Club. Other members attending the NILE from the club were Clint Dietz, Courtney Dietz and Scott Fried. . .4-H Achievement Banquet held Oct. 19, marked the end of Mrs. Eugene Russell’s leadership in the 4-H program, after having been a leader for 23 years. . .Baker Homecraft Club held its 30th anniversary potluck dinner Oct. 20 in the library basement. Special guests included three charter members - Julie LaCross, Ariel McClain, both of Baker, and Helen Fisher of Ismay. . .Beginning the first of the year. 1981, Baker will enjoy the opening of a new cafe. Betty Pool plans to re-open the Baker Hotel and Cafe. . .Country Cousins 4-H Club won the “Outstanding Club” award for the second year in a row. Their members include Kim Schweigert, Coleen
Barley, Keryl Roberts, Carmen Rost, Gary Singer, Joel Bechtold, David Schweigert, Dale Singer, Clinton Croy and Michael Stark. Their leaders are Sherri Singer and Alice Kay Schweigert.
50 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 22, 1970 --
Randash Motors, delivered one car to the Baker High School and one car to the Carter County High School to be used for the Driver’s Education instruction, free of charge. . .A meeting was held Tuesday morning in the Lutheran Church to discuss the availability of senior citizen housing. . .Leland Gundlach, Corky Kreager, Bud Heckman and Harold Jensen along with other hunters returned last week with all their elk tags punched for the year. They went to Leland and Bud’s hunting lodge and packed into the Bob Marshall Wilderness area 22 miles. . .Baker Assembly 14 Order of Rainbow for Girls held its annual installation Oct. 15. Installed were Lorene Averett, Worthy Advisor; Pam Carlson, Worthy Associate Advisor; Pat Rugg, Charity; Pam Rugg, Hope; Mary Jones, Faith; Shelly Scott, Drill Leader; Evelyn Abrams, Love; Karen Tague, Patriotism; Becky Woodard, Service; and Dana Tague, Musician.
60 YEARS AGO
Thursday, October 20, 1960 --
The sheriff’s office was alerted Oct. 15 forenoon to cover a robbery of the Plevna Bar. Terry Cameron investigated and the time for the break-in was set at around 2:30 a.m. A little money and a quantity of liquor had been taken. . .Oct. 16, a hunting traffic accident including Walter Flint and Wilbert Schweigert occurred when both victims were watching deer 10.6 miles north and .6 miles east of Baker on a dirt road. . .A joint announcement was made this week by Roy McClain and Fred Morrow concerning the establishment of a roller mill. . .Mrs. Lillie Cate, 77, longtime resident of the Baker community, died Oct. 14 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Mildred Beaudette of Wibaux. . .Attending the recent biennial convention of Catholic Women held in Great Falls were Mrs. Jack Lawler and Mrs. J. B. Herbst of Baker and Mrs. E. P. Herbst of Plevna.
70 YEARS AGO
Thursday, October 26, 1950 --
Mrs. Earl Hoke and Mrs. George Jenner both report they have been picking as many as two quarts of strawberries at a time and that their plants are blooming and bearing in full vigor. . .The basement of Lawler’s new store has been completed and cement for the sidewalk is being poured this week. The weather permitting, the building will be enclosed before too long. . .Mr. and Mrs. Sam Freeman of Jonjoping, Sweden are visiting their niece, Mr. and Mrs. Wm.
Jesperson. . .There were 400 licenses for buck hunters issued this season in Fallon County and 100 hunters got their deer. . .Baker High School mechanical arts shop and vocational agriculture shop are now completed announces Supt. L. W. Heftie. . .Bert Halmans, professional mover, moved two houses to Baker last week from Ollie. One is C. R. Moseley’s and the other is Merle Schrader’s.
80 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 24, 1940 --
Work was recently started on the grading of nearly nine miles of the highway on route seven immediately north of Baker. . .Work has started on the first water facility on the Big Beaver Watershed in Fallon County on the ranch owned by C. L. Waldron and operated by Claude P. Schouboe. . .The Selective Service Board for Fallon County has set up quarters in the courthouse in the office vacated by the NYA force. Miss Marie MacDonald has been hired as clerk and stenographer. . .All the Baker and Plevna teachers and a large percent of the Fallon County rural teachers left today for Billings to attend the three day meeting of the Montana Educators Association.
90 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 23, 1930 --
At noon a luncheon meeting at the Hotel Baker, Wednesday, J. C. Marquire of Butte, a paving contractor, discussed with members of the Commercial Club’s committee on the paving situation in Baker. . .Arraigned Monday afternoon before Judge S. E. Felt, Tom Lane entered a plea of not guilty to the murder of Vincent “Bud” Butler. The information charging him with murder in the first degree was filed by County Attorney Denzil R. Young. . .Jack Guth, exhibitor of the largest steer in the world, Montana, returned last week to Baker after having spent the last six months in the middle western and Atlantic seaport states.
100 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 21, 1920 --
The Republican Rally at the Lake Theatre Friday evening was well attended, quite a few out of town voters were present and all shades of politics were represented. . .Ward Wills and Ketteler Bros are the new owners of the Baker Auto Co. Mr. Wills will have charge of the office and the Ketteler Bros., both expert mechanics and auto repair men, will be in charge of the repair business. . . Lawrence Clancy and family moved to Baker to take advantage of the well-liked gas heat during the winter. Quite a few people come to town in the fall and all have words of appreciation for the gas. . .A big shipment of 12-inch casing arrived this week for the Beaver Creek well, south of Baker.
UPCOMING EVENTS
October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month Oct. 22 - Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 7 p.m., Holy Rosary conference room 2, call Diana 406-232-1458 or Nicole 232-5698; O’Fallon Community Choir rehearsals, 7:30 p.m., Lutheran Church. Oct. 25 - Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center. Oct. 26 - Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., snacks provided, Compass Coffee. Oct. 27 - Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church; Lake Board meeting, 5:30 p.m., courthouse basement conference room. Oct. 29 - O’Fallon Community Choir rehearsals, 7:30 p.m., Lutheran Church. Oct. 30 - Downtown Trickor-Treat, 3-6 p.m. Oct. 31 - Halloween Nov. 1 - Daylight Saving Time ends; Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center. Nov. 2 - Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., snacks provided, Compass Coffee; PTA monthly meeting, 5:30 p.m., Lincoln School Multi-Purpose room. Nov. 3 - Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church. Nov. 4 - Sons of the Ameri-
can Legion, 6 p.m., American Legion; City Council, 7 p.m., Fallon County courtroom. Nov. 5 - O’Fallon Community Choir rehearsals, 7:30 p.m., Lutheran Church; Baker Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture, noon. Nov. 8 - Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center.
•HOPE, do you feel alcohol is causing problems, we can help, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the American Lutheran Church. •District Court is in session the first Tuesday of the first full week of the month and as often as business warrants. Interested persons are welcome to check a specific schedule at the office of the Clerk of District Court. •O’Fallon Historical Museum: Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m-noon & 1-4 p.m. •Fallon County Library hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays. •Driver Licensing Schedule, every Tuesday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m., courthouse.
Join The Times in wishing a Happy Birthday to ... Jake Williams Hannah Wheeler
October 23
James Jackson Benson Beeler
October 24
October 27
Susan England Raenette Kendall Sharon Rustad Dolores Schell Breanna Miller Lisa Burdick Kelly Graham
Ruth Deviney Leonard Skogas Jason Schaaf Mesa Varner Johanna Barth
October 25
Dillon Cunningham Drake Graham Billie Jo Griffith Michelle Kilsdonk Nolan Emerson Cricket Wyrwas
October 28
Russell Newell Dustin Baldwin
October 29
October 26
Betty Johnson Nancy Schillinger Allan Wang Janell Miller Konnor John Rose Melissa Rost Shirley Sakelaris
Baker Agronomy Center
Full Service Agronomy Plant
Fertilizer • Crop Protection • Seed
• Recommendations and farm service geared around your operation • Latest in crop management products to maximize this year’s crop potential Grower owned company helping to achieve success in the field Stop in and visit:
Parker Murnion
Call: 406-778-2929
School Bus Safety Week October 19 - 23, 2020
October 19 - 23, 2020
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“Stop On Red, Kids Ahead” We think our drivers deserve this recognition, for they are among the best drivers in the nation! The safety of our children is in very competent hands.
Baker Public Schools
Published Every Friday in Baker, Montana 2020 Member
(USPS 184940)
Ph. 406-778-3344 • Fax: 406-778-3347 P.O. Box 679 • Baker, Montana 59313-0679 e-mail: fctimes@midrivers.com falloncountyextra.com Tammy O’Donnell
Media Consultant
Tina Rost
General Manager
Megan Slagter
Production
Brad Mosher
Reporter
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Spartan Bus Line would like to honor our drivers:
• Marty Asay • Jan Lovec • Janice Buck • Mike Gunderson • Jerry Schell
They keep the safety of our children first! John & DeeDee Geving, Owners Advertising must be in by 2 p.m. Tuesday Periodicals postage paid in Baker, MT POSTMASTER Send address changes to: FALLON COUNTY TIMES • PO Box 679 • Baker, MT 59313 SUBSCRIPTION RATES: $52 Inside County $72 Outside County ADVERTISING RATES: Local.....................................................per column inch $7.10 National Advertising............................per column inch $8.36 Classified.....................................15¢ per word over 25 words $8.95 minimum, all strictly cash Cards of Thanks .........................15¢ per word over 50 words $6.85 minimum, all strictly cash
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October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
Avery Uecker carries the ball for another successful touchdown of the night.
Spartans defeat the Wolves By Hannah Goerndt
On Oct. 20, the Baker Spartan football team hosted the Wolf Point Wolves for a rescheduled game. With snow on the field and fans bundled in blankets, the boys held their last home game of the 2020 regular season. Although cold, spirits were high as the Spartans scored touchdown after touchdown. The game ended 43-7 in the Spartans’ favor. Highlights from the game included three touchdowns from senior Avery Uecker, one from senior Konner Flint, one from sophomore Guy Lesh, and one from freshman Cooper O’Connor. “It was a real fun game and we were playing pretty rough at the start but then we figured it out and I think the team played really well all together,” said Avery Uecker. In the first quarter Avery Uecker scored a touchdown off a 46 yard run and also successfully scored the PAT run, giving the Spartans 8 points. In the second quarter, Guy Lesh scored off a 13 yard run and Jaxson Tronstad ran a successful PAT, bringing the Spartans up to 16 points. Avery Uecker scored a touchdown on a 2 yard run and another on an 8 yard run, with both PAT passes unsuccessful. Konnor Flint scored a touchdown off a 24 yard pass from Jaxson Tronstad, and Colin Lorbiecke made a successful PAT kick. This ended the first half of the game at 35 for the Spartans, the Wolves at 0. Neither team scored in the third quarter, but Cooper O’Connor scored off a 12 yard pass from Jesse Brawley, and the PAT was a successful run by Quinn Griffith, finalizing the ending score for the Spartans at 43. Offensively, for rushing, the team was 35-316 yards. Avery Uecker was 13/126 yards, Guy Lesh was 7/105 yards, and Bruce Higbee was 9/57 yards. On passing the team was 2-5/36 yards. Defensively, with tackles, Avery Uecker had 7 and Guy Lesh had 6. Konner Flint had 1 interception. For fumble recovery, Guy Lesh had 1, Ethan Gundlach had 1, and Hawken Custer had 1. The Baker Spartans will travel to Colstrip for the last game of the regular season on Friday, Oct. 23.
SPARTAN SCROLL CONTINUED
PAGE 6
Alex Williams
Rilee Pettersen
Volleyball takes on another challenging week By Macy Varner
4 blocks. Saraya Afrank 6 kills and 11 digs. C-Squad - (21-25) (8-25) (4-15) Kacee Moore led in serving with 2 aces. She also had 11 assists. Briley Gorder had 2 kills, 2 blocks and 1 dig. Carlee Gundlach 2 kills and 1 assist. Jessica Stark had 2 kills. Karissa Afrank had 3 digs. Mallory Varner had 4 digs. Raquel Tronstad had 1 kill. Saraya Afrank had 1 ace and 6 kills.
Lady Spartans vs Red Devils
Lady Spartans vs Wolves
The Lady Spartans had a busy week at home with back-to-back games over the long school break. It was also Pack the Place in Pink Night on Thursday and Saturday, so fans and players were encouraged to dress in pink attire to support Breast Cancer Awareness! These ladies fought hard while finishing off their last home game of the season. Huntley continues to be a tough competitor for the Lady Spartans and unfortunately they lost in three games. Varsity - (10-25) (10-25) (12-25) Emily Shumaker led in serving with 2 aces. She also had 2 kills and 2 blocks. Camryn Collins had 2 kills and 1 block. Eve Uecker had 1 dig. McKenna Griffith had 1 kill. Peyton Janeway had 2 kills and 2 blocks. Rilee Petterson had 1 block and 10 assists. Sady Harbaugh had 3 kills. JV - (16-25) (16-25) (16-14) (7-15) Kaytlynn Gaub had 1 ace, 1 block, 9 assists, and 5 digs. Alex Williams had 4 digs. Anika Ploeger had 8 digs. Eve Uecker had 2 kills, 1 block and 6 digs. Kacee Moore had 1 ace. Makala Gallegos had 8 kills and
The Baker Lady Spartans excitingly conquered the Wolf Point Wolves on Oct. 16. Varsity - (21-25) (22-25) (25-21) (32-30) (15-8) Emily Shumaker led in serving with 7 aces. She also had 2 kills and 2 blocks. Alex Williams had 3 aces. Camryn Collins had 6 kills and 3 blocks. Harlee Graham had 1 dig. Macy Varner had 2 aces and 1 dig. Makala Gallegos had 2 kills. McKenna Griffith had 1 assist. Peyton Janeway had 10 kills. Rilee Petterson had 1 ace, 3 kills and 19 assists. Sady Harbaugh had 3 aces, 7 kills and 2 blocks. JV - (25-20) (25-17) (15-8) Alex Williams had 3 aces and 7 digs. Anika Ploeger had 4 digs. Braelynn Lovec had
1 black and 1 assist. Eve Uecker had 3 aces, 4 kills, and 10 digs. Kacee Moore had 1 ace. Kaytlynn Gaub had 1 ace, 2 kills, 13 assists, and 3 digs. Makala Gallegos had 5 kills, 2 blocks and 2 digs. Mallory Varner had 1 ace and 1 kill. Saraya Afrank had 4 kills. C-Squad - (25-17) (25-19) (17-15) Karissa Afrank led in serving with 5 aces. She also had 8 digs. Briley Gorder had 1 kill. Carlee Gundlach had 2 aces and 2 kills. Kacee Moore had 1 kill, 13 assists, and 3 digs. Mallory Varner had 3 aces and 5 digs. Raquel Tronstad 3 kills. Saraya Afrank had 3 aces, 9 kills, 1 assist, and 10 digs. Tyaisha Dietz had 1 kill, 1 assist and 3 digs.
Lady Spartans vs Dogies
The Baker Lady Spartans took on the Forsyth Dogies on Oct. 17. They lost in 3 games. Varsity - (18-25) (23-25) (10-25) Sady Harbaugh led in serving with 2 aces. She also had 4 kills. Camryn Collins had 1 kill. Emily Shumaker had 2 kills and 2 blocks. Harlee Graham had 1 kill. Macy Varner had 2 digs. Makala Gallegos had 1 kill. Mya Hadley had 1 kill. Peyton Janeway had 1 ace and 1 block. Rilee Petterson had 9 assists.
Fallon County Times
October 23, 2020
Cougar Tracks
News from the Plevna School
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Junior class chloride lab
Burning Nickel Chloride off of a popsicle stick
By Chloe Tudor
With the ambitious guidance of Mrs. Schumacher, the junior chemistry class conducted a flame lab. The first step of the lab was mixing each of the chloride substances with water to generate single mole substances. After making sure it is mixed completely; Chloe Tudor and
Brentan Beyers added popsicle sticks to each of the finished products. The last, and most exciting, step of the process was holding the sticks above the flame to see what color of flame the different elements produce. The results are as follows: Barium Chloride (BaCl2) produced an orange/yellow-green, Calcium Chloride (CaCl2) resulted in a hot orange flame, Copper II Chloride (CuCl2) displayed a green flame, Nickel Chloride (NiCl2) showed a peachy color with white sparks, Potassium Chloride (KCl) made an orange flame with a peachy hue, Sodium Chloride (NaCl) projected a spectacular fiery orange, Strontium Chloride (SnCl2) resulted in a red flame, Aluminum Chloride (AlCl2) showed no true color of flame, Cobalt Chloride (CoCl2) sent white sparks out. The juniors enjoyed this fiery lab and look forward to future projects!
Jordan Paul guarding his man.
Sophia Tudor testing the voltage.
Potato lab By Chloe Tudor
Mrs. Schumacher’s eighth grade class is studying how batteries work. Their hands-on project included making a potato battery. The first demonstration would power one LED light and the second would power a whole string of LED lights.
Plevna School Menu Monday: Crunchy Hawaiian chicken wrap, chips, banana Tuesday: Biscuits & gravy, potatoes, blueberries Wednesday: Chicken strips, mac n cheese, broccoli, fruit Thursday: Stromboli squares, green beans, peaches Friday: No School
Plevna FFA meeting
By Jenna Paul
On Oct. 8, the Plevna FFA Chapter came together for their monthly meeting. The Officer Team was decked out in Halloween costumes and decorated the lunch room accordingly. President Dacy Buerkle opened the meeting after the opening ceremony. Chloe Tudor gave a Treasurer’s report for the month. Following this, Jaeda reported from the Joint Livestock Committee where they discussed Beef Weigh-In, Carcass Results, and changes in the fair. There was no old business to be discussed. For new business, Maddi discussed an FFA magazine to promote the chapter that would be available by the end of the year. Sophia reminded the chapter of the upcoming Harvest of the Month presentations. Next Jenna brought up a Scholarship Workshop, in which students would learn about local scholarships, activity scholarships, time management, and tips on where to find scholarships. Maddi is planning a workshop for the elementary and other students who are interested in learning about composting. We will be doing a different FFA fundraiser in which we sell meat and cheese instead of fruit. Dacy then shared the new plans for John Deere Ag Expo. The meeting was adjourned, and followed by Family Feud Halloween Edition as the meeting activity.
Menu Subject to change. Milk served daily-White 1%, Skim, Low-Fat Chocolate. Desserts served at random. Free breakfast is served every day to ALL students
Sophia Tudor jumping for the ball.
JH basketball By Jenna Paul
The junior high basketball season kicked off on Oct. 16. The Wibaux Longhorns came to play. The elementary girls team lost 0 to 8, while the junior high team lost 24 to 30. The elementary boys left the crowd cheering with a win of 32 to 27, and the Junior High Boys kept it going with their first win of the season 44 to 37. On Oct. 19 the Broadus Hawks brought some heat. The elementary girls team lost 0 to 7; the junior high girls lost 20 to 29 in a heated match. The elementary boys scrimmaged with a final scored of 18 to 4. The junior high boys were ready to play once again ending with 43 to 31. The next game is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 23 where we travel to Jordan to take on the Mustangs.
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Good Luck to the
Plevna Lady Cougars AT THE
2C District Volleyball Tournament
Oct. 29 - 31
at Forsyth High School
Sophia Schumacher, Whitney Thielen, Izzy Cuppy, Dacy Buerkle, Jaiden Dulin, Jenna Paul, Jaeda Paul, Chloe Tudor, Tylee Rieger, Maddi Butori
2020 - 2021 PLEVNA SCHOOL SPONSORS
4J WELL SERVICE ABC PLUS ALBERT & LYNN PAUL, JESSICA, JENNA, JAEDA & JORDAN B&B FARMS, NORMA, DAN, BRITT & DON BUERKLE FAMILIES B & B SEPTIC SERVICES BADLANDS ELECTRIC BAKER BODY SHOP BAKER DRUG BAKER FURNITURE BAKER METAL & RECYCLING BANK OF BAKER BATTERMAN LAW OFFICE BIG HILL BOARDING BILL & KATIE LANE, HAYDEN, COLTON & LIAM CACTUS CATTLE COMPANY, BOBBY, MISSY, WYETT, WHITNEY & WILEY THIELEN CHOICE CONSTRUCTION
CIRCLE R STEEL & INSULATION CLIFF & JENNIFER TUDOR, COURTNEY, CHLOE, SOPHIA & SARA CT EXCAVATION, INC. CORNER BAR DALE & SHARON BUERKLE DARCY L. WASSMANN, P.C. DARIN & NICOLE BUERKLE & FAMILY DAVE & JODI SCHUETZLE & FAMILY DEEP CREEK CONTRACTING DICK’S HEATING & COOLING DIRECT ELECTRIC EILEEN & LISA RIEGER FALLON COUNTY TIMES FALLON COUNTY VETERINARY SERVICE FARMER’S UNION OIL CO. FRED & DONNA HOUZVICKA GIFF & VIVIAN (PANASUK) WOOD GRASSLANDS FEDRAL CREDIT UNION GRIFFITH EXCAVATING, INC.
GRIFFITH RENTAL GRIFFITH STEEL HURLEY’S AUTOMOTIVE HWY 12 EQUIPMENT INSURANCE STORE ISMAY GRAIN COMPANY, LLC, RITA, GENE, LOREEN, LEE & NANCY NEMITZ J & M LUMBER JAMES R. CAMPBELL D.D.S JORDAN & ASHLEY O’DONNELL, RAY, CORB & BO LORIN & CAROL BUERKLE MITCHELL’S CRANE & TRUCKING NEMITZ TRUCKING, LEE, NANCY & FAMILY QUALITY TRANSPORTATION PLEVNA BAR & GRILL PLEVNA PUBLIC SCHOOLS PRAIRIE FUELS PRAIRIE ROSE CLASSICS PRECISION PARTS & SUPPLY
QUALITY TRANSPORTATION RACHEL’S ACCOUNTING REYNOLDS MARKET RIEGER FENCING & CONTRACTING ROLLING RUBBER POINT S RUSSELL’S CLOTHING SCOT & NIKKI BUERKLE, TRISTAN & TAYVN SPIFFY’S STEFFES RANCH, INC., LARRY, CARMIE, CHAD, HEATHER, STEPHANIE, JOE & SHAWNNA STEVE & JAN STICKNEY STRAUB HEATING & COOLING THEE BODY SHOP THEE GARAGE BAR & STEAKHOUSE WAYNE & MARY MANGOLD WBI ENERGY WILLIE, PENNY & TIFFANY BENNER
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October 23, 2020
CLASSIFIEDS
Fallon County Times
The deadline to place classified advertising is 2 p.m. every Tuesday for that week’s publication. Call The Times today (406) 778-3344
WANT TO PURCHASE: Minerals and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. 36-38p
NOTICE: Bowman, ND Gun Show Oct. 23, 24, 25, 2020, 4 Seasons Pavilion. 100 - 8’ tables - $30. Open to the public Friday 3 - 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free Admission. Contact Rick Stark, home 406-778-2428; cell 406-978-2428. 38-43c
FOR RENT
LEGALS
STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT: Baker Self Storage has units for rent. 1 – 5x10, 1 – 10x15, 4 - 15x20. Call Shawn 406-480-2980. 41tfnc
LEGAL NOTICE Low Income Assistance Available to
WANTED
Mid-Rivers Phone & Internet Customers Mid-Rivers Communications offers Lifeline low-income assistance to qualifying subscribers with discounts of $7.25 per month on phone, or $9.25 per month on qualifying Internet or bundled services. Larger discounts are available to qualifying customers on Tribal Lands. These assistance services are non-transferable and allow for only one discount per qualifying household. Eligibility standards for these assistance programs are determined by the Fed
eral Communications Commission (FCC). Lifeline discounts for standalone phone service are scheduled to be phased out by the FCC beginning December 1, 2019. Please contact your nearest Mid-Rivers office, call us at 1-800-452-2288, or visit www. midrivers.com/low-income-assistance.html for more information. 43c MNAXLP
FOR SALE HOUSE FOR SALE: Four bdrm, two bath. Oak floors in two bedrooms and living room. Two storage rooms, two lots close to schools, large garage with off street parking. 713 S. 2nd St. W. Call 406-5803419. 40-43p ____________________________ FOR SALE: Aluminum Featherlite stock trailer, 20’ (2005). Well matted, hardly been used. Call 406-7783534, after 7 p.m. or leave a message. 43c
NOTICE NOTICE: Baker, MT. Gun Show, Nov. 6, 7, 8, 2020. Thee Garage, 50 - 8’ tables - $30. Free admission. Open to the public.Friday 3-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Contact Rick Stark, home 406-778-2428, cell 406-9782428. 41-45c
MONTANA STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE: CORN stalk bales at about 80 bu/acre. Also grass, stover & straw bales. Delivery available. Call John at (701) 269-3413. _______________________________________________________________________________ Land title business seeks full-time clerk. Communication, customer service and computer skills needed. Willing to train. Pay DOE, advancement opportunity. Contact Rod: rod@lclandco.com or (406) 253-4267.
SPARTAN SCROLL FROM PAGE 4
Jessa Gion
Front (l-r): Jalynn Hanes, Skylar Wall, Macy Varner, McKenzie Davis, Rachel Tronstad. Back (l-r): Paiton Graham, Mercedes Runfola, Alissah Hickey, Mya Hadley.
Students explore the power of the brain
Carter Gion
By Jalynn Hanes
The Baker High School child development class is currently learning about the importance of human brain development. Starting out as infants, we are born with billions of neurons that work to make connections and increase learning capacity of the brain. The first three years of an infant’s life are the most important time to develop these strong neural connections that will last the rest of a person’s life. That is why it is critical for parents and caregivers to read to children, talk with them to increase their vocabulary and practice language skills very early on. Also important, is giving children the opportunities to develop in areas physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Students have learned to remember these areas by using the word, “PIES” to understand the four “domains” of child development and how they are needed to help humans to grow and thrive. Students participated in a fun activity this past week that demonstrated the location of the different lobes of the brain. The class made “Brain Hats,” which clearly showed the different sections and illustrated tasks that each lobe is responsible for. Students were interested to learn that the frontal lobe of the brain does not fully mature for most people until they reach at least 25 years of age. This is also the part of the brain that deals with risk taking, logic and reasoning. It helps explain why teenagers are more apt to take risks and may not always understand the full consequence of actions they take. Mrs. Pam Beach stressed with students that this is proof they still need a stable adult in their lives to help them navigate some of the more challenging decisions they encounter as a teenager. Students are continuing to learn more about the basic brain functions along with the value of early brain development for infants. The more knowledge students have on the power of the brain, the better they can understand the growth of children and the importance of cultivating a healthy brain.
Sophia Dulin
Celebrating idigenous cultures in our community By Sophia Dulin
This past Oct. 12, brought about the notorious holiday of Columbus and the settling of America. Sadly, one group that is often overlooked on this day are the indigenous peoples who were affected by this event and the traditions they fought to hold onto that were already well established in America for centuries beforehand. Many people now choose to honor these groups and their cultures on this holiday as well. Indigenous Peoples’ Day commemorates Native American histories and celebrates the contributions these tribes have made to the Americas and our nation. To celebrate this day, a few students from Baker High
School helped set-up tribal flags along main street in town. These flags included the three affiliated tribes of Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara, Standing Rock Sioux, Oglala Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, Crow, Little Shell Chippewa, Confederated Salish and Kootenai, Chippewa Cree, and Fort Peck Assiniboine & Sioux Tribes. With help organizing from Shanny Gion, students were excited to start this tradition in the community and are hopeful to continue and grow upon this holiday. The flags were left to fly the entire day to honor the impact of these tribes on students and families in our community. In the future, we hope more activities can be arranged locally to celebrate this day of Indigenous People!
October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
NRCS sets Conservation Program Funding application cutoff Finding perspective The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Montana has set a Nov. 17, 2020, application cutoff for agricultural operators to be considered for the next conservation program funding cycle. The cutoff date applies to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program-Classic (CSP), and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP-EQIP). “NRCS provides funding and technical assistance to help farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners implement conservation practices that provide environmental benefits to help sustain their operations,” said Tom Watson, NRCS State Conservationist for Montana. “Conservation work focused on local outcomes with the support of local partners and land managers achieves meaningful conservation across a landscape.” In addition to CSP, conservation funding is available for the following initiatives through EQIP. Castle Mountains Restoration Project: This partnership project uses thinning and other forestland management practices to reduce potential fuel loads, improve forest and rangeland health in the Willow Creek Watershed, water source for White Sulphur Springs. High Tunnel Systems: These systems extend the growing seasons for high value crops in an environmentally safe manner. High tunnel benefits include better plant and soil quality and fewer nutrients and pesticides in the environment. Honey Bee Pollinators: Combats future honey bee declines by implementing conservation practices that provide forage for honey bees while enhancing habitat for other pollinators and wildlife.
National On-Farm Energy Initiative: Agricultural producers work with NRCS-approved technical service providers to develop agricultural energy management plans or farm energy audits that assess energy consumption on an operation. NRCS may also provide assistance to implement recommended measures identified in the energy audit through the use of conservation practice standards. National Organic Initiative: Producers currently certified as organic, transitioning to organic, or National Organic Program exempt will have access to a broad set of conservation practices to assist in treating their resource concerns while fulfilling many of the requirements in an Organic System Plan. National Water Quality Initiative: Producers implement conservation systems to reduce nitrogen, phosphorous, sediment and pathogen contributions from agricultural land in the Lower Gallatin Watershed (Camp and Godfrey Creeks). Sage Grouse Initiative: Landowners can work with NRCS on three different components to improve sage-grouse habitat. One is a general category to implement prescribed grazing management practices. The others are to seed cropland back to perennial species to improve the connectivity for sage-grouse that depend on large, intact landscapes and the removal of conifers to increase nest success rates. Wildfire Adapted Missoula: A partnership project that addresses shared wildfire risk by mitigating current wildfire hazards surrounding the Missoula community via prescribed fire and thinning maintenance. Targeted Implementation Plans: Montana NRCS targets its investments in very specific areas to achieve clearly defined
natural resource goals as identified by local partners. This approach harnesses the power of multiple landowners in one area undertaking similar conservation projects to achieve a regional or landscape-scale result. Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP-EQIP): The RCPP-EQIP under Farm Bill 2014 promotes coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that offer value-added contributions to expand our collective ability to address on-farm, watershed, and regional natural resource concerns. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers financial and technical assistance to eligible participants to install or implement structural and management practices on eligible agricultural land. In Montana, socially disadvantaged, limited resource, and beginning farmers and ranchers will receive a higher payment rate for eligible conservation practices applied. The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is for working lands. For farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners already taking steps to improve the condition of the land, CSP can help find new ways to meet resource and operation goals. NRCS accepts conservation program applications year-round; however, applications for the next funding consideration must be submitted by Nov. 17, 2020. Applications made after the cutoff will be considered in the next funding cycle. Additional information is available on the Montana NRCS website at www.mt.nrcs. usda.gov under the Programs tab or by contacting your local USDA service center at https://www.farmers.gov/service-center-locator.
Governor Bullock secures reversal of U.S Postal Service cuts fter filing a lawsuit against Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the United States Postal Service for making unlawful changes to postal services that directly harmed the timeliness and reliability of mail in Montana, Governor Steve Bullock today announced the United States Postal Service agreed to reverse the changes. “I’m pleased Postmaster General DeJoy has agreed to reverse the changes that were harmful to Montanans’ access to the mail,” Governor Bullock said. “Montanans never gave up this fight and as a result, we are ensuring stability through and beyond the election by immediately restoring the mail services folks rely on, whether it’s receiving vital medication or ensuring they can pay their bills on time.” The Postal Service agreed to reverse all the major policies it has made since June, including: •Reducing retail hours •Removing collection boxes or mail sorting machines •Closing or consolidating mail processing facilities
•Restricting late or extra trips to timely delivery mail •Banning or newly restricting overtime •Unduly limiting hiring for Craft positions The agreement also requires the Postal Service to prioritize election mail and incorporates reporting requirements issued under all other courts. In September, Governor Bullock filed a lawsuit challenging the policy changes that DeJoy began implementing, which were designed to delay and obstruct the delivery of mail. The resulting delay impacted state communications with Montanans, medical prescriptions, payments, application materials for jobs and educational opportunities, important supplies for farming and ranching, and other communications, and threatened to interfere with Montanans’ ability to vote in the upcoming November election in the midst of a global pandemic. Under the agreement, Governor Bullock can sue again if the USPS unlawfully makes changes to mail service in the future.
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and better life balance By Robin Kinney
Let’s just admit it: 2020 has been a real challenge. It all seemed to happen right around the time when we reset clocks in mid-March. Now, as we prepare for the end of daylight saving time in early November, and after recently spending some valuable time away, I’ve found a renewed energy, positive perspective and several new memories that will keep me focused. I take pride in a strong work ethic. Being raised on the farm, vacation was a novel concept because there was always work that had to be done. But I made a promise to a friend two years ago to really “unhook” and I’m glad I did. Doing so can provide a different perceptive on what is important in your life, helping you recognize priorities. This year after my pause, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the abundance in my professional and personal life. I’m grateful that unhooking allowed me to spend quality uninterrupted time with people I care about, many of whom are involved in agriculture. I was able to see life through their eyes and experience a new routine different than my own. Visiting my farming families (safely social distanced of course), preparing harvest suppers, picking up supplies and building on the foundation of fellowship that has lasted decades was valuable. Our conversations were deep as we shared successes, frustrations, hopes and struggles. Our friendships were enriched and I was reminded of how important these relationships are to me. Life can be a real roll-
ercoaster ride and offers plenty of heart-skipping adrenalin. In times of high anxiety, the challenge is to provide balance during the ride, gaining a different perspective as you hang on for the deep lows and treasure the exhilarating highs. The mind stores great memories, but when faced with continual challenges, people can sometimes lose sight of the good times and become suffocated with hopelessness that can crush the human spirit. That dark cloud can be ominous and terrifying. Pausing, taking a break and stepping away to spend time with people important to you or doing something you enjoy can often provide the perspective you need. Some people will mask their struggle or pain, but there are signs if you know what to look for. Examples include disconnecting from normal activities or attendance at events, a once-tidy farm or home becoming unkempt, neglect of personal health or lack of care for living beings, missing routine commitments, loss of faith and talk of despair. Or there could be no signs at all. When people are paralyzed with fear it can help to know that someone is concerned, willing to listen, able to offer hope and can point them towards help. You don’t need to be the expert, but you can show empathy and compassion by asking how things are going. If they don’t respond, share your concerns with a family member. Check out a powerful special program about rural mental health featured on RFD-TV and additional resources at http://farmstateofmind.org.
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October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor, For your consideration, please find the attached opinion piece by the Montana Association of Clerk & Recorders and Election Administrators regarding the upcoming November 3 Presidential Election. I am sending this piece on behalf of Kody Farkell, Pondera County Election Administrator and President of the Montana Association of Clerk and Recorders and Election Administrators. The piece is endorsed by Montana’s Election Administrators covering 56 counties and we appreciate this opportunity to educate and re-affirm Montana’s election process. Montana Election Administrators are committed to safe and secure elections We serve voters by ensuring their qualifications are valid, their information is accurate, and that they have equitable, unobstructed access to voting. We protect the integrity of the election by ensuring that every valid ballot that is timely received and legally cast is counted, and that the results are accounted for and validated through the canvass process. We are on guard against fraud, undue influence, and corruption from external forces that seek to politicize the electoral process in order to control the outcome. We follow the laws, administrative rules, directives, and court rulings that dictate the conduct of elections, and we ensure that those who participate in the election do the same. We serve across 56 widespread counties that have numerous differences and countless similarities. Some are urban while others are very rural. Agriculture and ranching lifestyles dominate some communities while others create commerce through recreation, tourism, and other industries. The members of the Montana Association of Clerk
& Recorders and Election Administrators share these differences and similarities. Some counties hand count while most use various high-speed tabulators to compile the results of hundreds of thousands of ballots. We share a voter registration database that is maintained and secured by the Office of the Secretary of State. Through collaboration, we build uniform policies and processes that can be dynamic enough to suit the conditions and circumstances of each individual county’s election. Over time, Montana’s elections have evolved. This is due to the dynamic nature of the laws that allow for local control over the conduct of our elections. Our policies and processes are what allow for us to adapt to the conditions and circumstances of the election, such as a pandemic. Federal and statewide elections are usually held by polling place with a no-excuse absentee option. The majority of Montana voters participate in these elections by receiving their ballot in the mail and returning it by mail or in-person to the election office or a polling place. Local elections that are conducted by mail are conducted in accordance with Montana’s mail ballot election laws, laws that have been on the books for decades. The Montana Association of Clerk & Recorders and Election Administrators asked the Governor’s Office to provide a directive that allowed for greater local control of our elections so that each of the 56 counties in Montana could better determine how to conduct their election based on the conditions and circumstances of the pandemic in their area. The directive allows for a longer period of time for voters to register without the requirement of appear-
ing in-person at the election office. This allows for less exposure between voters and election workers, and streamlines the process of issuing ballots. The directive also allows counties to conduct the election under Montana’s mail ballot election laws, as long as in-person voting is accessible through Election Day. This reduces the need for a large number of election judges, limits the number of required in-person interactions, and prevents counties from straining the public’s resources. See your county’s voting options and helpful election information by reading www.votinginmontana.com election articles. Working together, we find that voters tend to have similar questions and concerns. Uncertainty and skepticism are shared across the political spectrum. This is why we created www.votinginmontana.com – a nonpartisan election resource that is intended to dispel misinformation and alleviate voters of uncertainty or apprehension about the election process. Election administrators across the state are here to help and encourage voters to reach out to their local election office with questions. The election administrators of Montana are committed to providing safe and secure elections. We value the transparency of the processes that we conduct on behalf of the voters. Our dedication to duty and high level of accountability are what have aided the successes in past elections and ensure effective and efficient elections in the future. Elections will never be easy, but they will always be necessary in a democracy, and we remain resolute in our commitment to democracy. Submitted by: Brenda J. Wood, Fallon County Clerk and Recorder/Election Administrator
Daines urges immediate assessment of Montana COVID-19 situation from FEMA
U.S. Senator Steve Daines is urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to conduct an assessment of Montana’s COVID-19 situation and asking for additional federal assistance to help mitigate the impacts of the pandemic. “Montana is currently experiencing a regional surge of COVID-19 cases. Nationally, we have the third highest rate of new cases and the second highest rate of test positivity. Last week, an average of 84% of hospitals in Montana reported either new confirmed or new suspected COVID-19 patients each day,” Daines wrote. “As Montana is experiencing a record number of positive COVID-19 cases and our hospitals across the state are reaching capacity, I respectfully request FEMA to conduct a needs assessment and consider providing additional federal relief that will protect the health of Montanans, including those in our rural and tribal communities, and support our local and state officials who are on the front lines of this public health crisis.”
DPHHS announces COVID-19 Vaccination Plan has been submitted to CDC By Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Sheila Hogan announced today that Montana has submitted its draft COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for review. “This is a critical step, and I’m pleased with where we’re at this point in the process,” Director Hogan said. “I look forward to working with the CDC and key stakeholders throughout Montana as we move forward to both refine the plan, as needed, and then prepare to implement it once the vaccine becomes available.” DPHHS expects feedback from CDC on the plan next week. Simultaneously, DPHHS has already begun and will continue to seek input from various key stakeholders. For example, a virtual Tribal Consultation was held on October 8, and included tribal governments, urban Indian health centers, and Indian Health Service. Montana’s planning efforts are based upon CDC guidance to anticipate a phased approach due to anticipated initial limited vaccine availability. This strategic approach accounts for the overlap of work between phases, and is flexible for any updated guidance at the federal level. Hogan said Phase 1 of the plan covers the first two months from when the state receives its first shipment of the vaccine and targets people at the highest risk of life-threatening infection and Montana’s critical infrastructure workforce. The plan provides a framework for how critical populations are defined for the COVID-19 vaccine in accordance with federal guidance. The plan details steps DPHHS will take to implement all phases of the plan by working with local public and private health providers in communities across the state. “DPHHS is committed to collaborating with all key partners throughout the COVID-19 vaccination process,” Hogan said. Phase 2 of the plan will continue targeting the critical workforce, second dose vaccines will be provided as needed, and vaccine distribution
will be expanded to other prioritized groups. As vaccine availability continues to increase, Phase 3 will help ensure every Montanan who wants a vaccination is able to obtain one. However, implementation for Phase 3, and all phases, is highly dependent on various factors, such as updated guidance and operational decisions made at the federal level. “The current plan is based on information known at this time, but there’s still many unknowns at this point, so this will be a work in progress,” Hogan said. A timeline for release of the vaccine is currently uncertain, so the plan does not include specific dates. The plan also covers related topics such as vaccine storage and handling, administration documentation and reporting, vaccine training, communication and safety monitoring. DPHHS provides funding to local jurisdictions to both develop and regularly exercise mass vaccination plans. DPHHS last partnered with local jurisdictions to hold a full-scale exercise in October 2019. Hogan added that DPHHS plans to establish two key advisory groups that will guide the effective vaccination effort. An internal COVID-19 Vaccination Planning Advisory Group will be comprised of subject matter experts in communicable disease, immunization, and public health preparedness. A broader COVID-19 Vaccination Plan Coordination Team will be comprised of stakeholders from various sectors across the state, many of whom are established key COVID-19 crisis response partners. This team will include, but not limited, health systems and hospitals, local health departments, Tribal governments, various congregate settings and others. “Our plan recognizes the importance of a collaborative response,” Hogan said. “We look forward to coordinating with our strong network of local partners that we already communicate with on a regular basis.” To view Montana’s COVID-19 vaccination plan, click here: https://dphhs.mt.gov/ Portals/85/Documents/Coronavirus/MontanaCOVID-19VaccinationPlanInterimDRAFT. pdf.
We hold a regular weekly cattle and feeder cattle sale every Wednesday.
2020 Participating Businesses for
Downtown Trick-or-Treat/Trunk-or-Treat Bring your kids downtown Friday, October 30 from 3-6 pm
Russell’s Clothing Farmer’s Union Oil/Cenex J & M Lumber Sew What Baker CowBelles at Scissor Wizard Baker Drug Fallon County Times Baker Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture SMART Big Sky Mini Barns Simply Chic Willow Day Spa Grasslands Federal Credit Union Eastern Plains Economic Development Precision Parts & Supply Runnings Baker Ace Hardware
Bank of Baker Insurance Store Baker Furniture
Rachel’s Accounting Mom’s Laundry Corner Bar Tavern All 4 U Flowers Thee Garage Bar & Steakhouse Compass Coffee Spirits Plus Charmed Lashes Griffith Rental Spartanettes T’s Traveling Table O’Fallon Museum
There is still time to be added to the list! Contact the Baker Chamber at bakerchamber@midrivers.com if you would like to participate
Special Sales as advertised. Give us a call to visit about your marketing plans.
C & D Yards • Baker, Montana
Open between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday. Your cattle will be delivered to Lemmon Livestock on Tuesday evening and will be sold on Wednesday.
Cattle will be on feed & water and a brand inspector on site
Wed. Oct. 28- Special All Breeds Calf Sale Thurs. Oct. 29- Special Weigh-Up Cow, Bull Hfrett Wed. Nov. 4 - Special All Breeds Calf Sale Thurs. Nov. 5- Special Weigh-Up Cow, Bull Hfrett Wed. Nov. 11 - Special All Breeds Calf Sale
Thurs. Nov. 12- Special Weigh-Up Cow, Bull Hfrett Wed. Nov. 18- Regular Sale w/All Breeds Calf Sale Wed. Nov. 25- NO SALE due to Thanksgiving Sat. Nov. 28- Annual Thanksgiving Special Bred HFR & Stock Cow Sale
You can now reach us on the Internet at www.lemmonlivestock.com If you have livestock to consign or would like us to stop at your ranch, please call Lemmon Livestock at 605-374-3877 or 800-822-8853 Paul Huffman Owner/Manager 605-374-5675 or cell 605-645-2493 C & D Yards Baker, Montana 406-778-3282 Curt Williams Baker Field Rep. 406-978-2520
Fallon County Times Business Directory Tri-State Chiropractic Center Dr. Charles F. Whitney 111 4th St. NW PO Box 176 Bowman, ND 58623
701-523-3239 Guns N Things LLC
Spring Creek Supply Mike and Cindy Stark (406) 588-3861
305 N. Merrill Ave. Glendive, MT
406-377-3969 Ernie Huether e-mail: eh7mm@mcn.net
Guns & Reloading Equipment
Fallon County Times 115 S. Main 406-778-3344
If you are being emotionally or physically hurt, call 406-978-9262 for free and confidential help 24 hours a day.
Thee Body Shop 406-778-2263
Auto Body Repair & Refinishing Windshield Repair & Replacement Reflex Spray-In Bedliners Mobile Soda Blasting
24 Hour Towing • 406-853-6722 111 Pleisner St. (1/4 mile east of Baker)
October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
MSU releases its Treasure State pre-election poll Montana State University released the results of its Treasure State poll today weighing Montana attitudes for the 2020 general election set for Nov 3. The poll, one of the most extensive publicly available polls on the state’s voter preferences for the upcoming election, is administered by members of the MSU Department of Political Science. All the major races are close and the poll has a 3.9% margin of error, according to David Parker, MSU political science professor and one of three architects of the poll, which was conducted between Sept. 14 and Oct. 2. In all, 1,787 Montanans responded to the mail-in poll that consisted of about 80 questions. Parker termed the return rate of about 20% as a good return rate. The professors weighted the responses to ensure the survey sample accurately represented the population of Montana’s registered voters. He said, per industry practice, they weighted the responses by gender, education, age, 2016 vote for president and place of residency. The Treasure State poll of the 2018 U.S. Senate election between Jon Tester and Matt Rosendale closely aligned with final results. “Who turns out will be a key to these elections,” said Parker, who led a team that also included fellow MSU political science professors Eric Raile and Elizabeth Shanahan. Data analysis was provided by the MSU HELPS Lab, which Raile directs. “For instance, younger voters disproportionately prefer Bullock to Daines,” Parker said. “If there is not a high turnout of younger voters, the GOP will win some of the races.” Poll results by race follow. U.S. Senate Montana Gov. Steve Bullock leads incumbent Sen. Steve Daines by two points in the race for the U.S. Senate with 49% from likely and active registered voters compared to 47% for Daines. Only 3% were undecided. The pre-election poll found that Bullock is the only Democrat to lead in the key races on the Montana ballot for 2020. A key statistic in the race is that of loyalty from the two voting bases, Parker said. Bullock received 97% of support from Democrats compared to Daines’ 88% from Republicans. Another 67% of independent voters also said they preferred Bullock, compared to 29% for Daines, a margin that Parker called “overwhelming.” “For the Democrats to win this race, they need to have their base behind them, a big solid lead from independent voters and hope for Republican defectors, all of which we see,” Parker said. “Bullock has gained some ground. That’s why the race is close, and he is in the lead.” Parker said that the race between Bullock, a Democrat who has termed out as Montana’s governor, and Daines, a Republican freshman senator who was previously the state’s lone U.S. House Representative, has all the signs that it will be the most expensive race in state
history. Presidential race The Treasure State poll found that while Donald Trump leads Democratic challenger Joe Biden, 51% to 44%, that 7-point lead is considerably less than the 20-point margin Trump carried the state with in the 2016 election. The poll showed President Trump’s support remains strong among Montana Republicans with 94% of GOP voters favoring him. Similarly, Biden’s support among Democrats is 97%. However, Montana’s independent voters prefer Biden 56% to 29% for Trump, a nearly 30-point disparity. Parker called President Trump’s 20-point Montana lead in the 2016 election falling to a 7-point margin in the 2020 election “an incredible cratering of support” in the state. Parker said that could have down-the-ballot implications in Montana. “Voters don’t seem excited with the record of the Trump administration,” Parker said. However, he pointed out that since 1948, Democratic presidential candidates have won Montana’s Electoral College votes only twice, and it looks likely that Montana voters will again support the GOP candidate in this election. U.S. House of Representatives In the race for the open seat for Montana’s U.S. Representative, Matt Rosendale leads Kathleen Williams by two points, 48% to 46%, with 5% undecided. Parker said the results break down largely along partisan lines. “However, more Republicans intend to vote for Williams (8%) than Democrats who intend to vote for Rosendale (1%),” Parker said. He said independents and voters with other partisan affiliations favor Williams by large margins of 28% and 33%, respectively. However, Raile pointed out that independent voters often prefer not to vote a straight party ticket, and a ballot with strong Democratic candidates in other races could serve as a detriment for Williams. “I do think independents like to split their ticket and vote for a GOP candidate somewhere on the ballot,” Raile said. Montana Governor Current U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte leads Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney by five points, 47% to 42%, with 7% of voters undecided. Parker said the state’s governor race is the contest on the ballot with the most potential for upset. “Lots of independent voters (14%) don’t know whom they’ll vote for, so there’s potential for movement,” he said. Republicans support for Gianforte is 88% while 95% of Democrats are aligned with Cooney. “It is likely that voters still don’t know who Mike Cooney is, while Congressman Gianforte has spent considerably not only in this race but in three previous statewide races and is well known as a result,” Parker said. “Cooney cannot win without a high voter
turnout and levels of support among young voters similar to those enjoyed by Gov. Bullock in the Senate race,” Parker said. Legalized marijuana initiatives In the two ballot initiatives pertaining to marijuana legalization, 49% of respondents said they would vote to support the initiatives supporting legalization, and 39% said they would oppose. Another 10% were uncertain how they would vote on this issue. There are two initiatives that deal with marijuana legalization on the ballot (CI-118 and I-190), so the poll asked the following question: “The state ballot will ask about legalizing recreational marijuana in Montana. Will you vote to support or oppose legalization?” Raile said of all the ballot-related questions in the poll, the response to this question was the only one outside the poll’s 3.9% margin of error. Seventy percent of Democrats said yes to legalization compared to 27% of Republicans. However, 13% of voters in each party were undecided or did not intend to vote on the issue. A majority of voters from ages 18 to 59 favor the measures with a majority of voters age 60 and above saying they will vote no to legalization. Parker said the marijuana initiatives could draw young voters to the election, which would help Democrats all the way down the ballot. “I think it is important to think about a ballot as a complete organic entity,” Parker said. “Young voters strongly are in favor of the measure, and they tend to be Democratic leaning.” Elected official approval ratings The Treasure State Pre-Election Poll also asked respondents to rate five elected officials: President Trump, Gov. Bullock, Sen. Daines, Sen. Tester and Rep. Gianforte. Bullock’s approval rating of 60% is the highest among the group. Tester follows with 55%, Daines with 52% and Trump with 51%. Gianforte is fifth with a 47% approval rating. “Gov. Bullock’s job approval ratings clarify why Daines is trailing in the race,” Parker said, noting the 8-point difference in the pair’s approval ratings. “It’s not that the voters don’t like Daines, they just like Bullock more.” Both Parker and Raile say that Gallatin County will be a key to this year’s elections. The county is the home to candidates running in races for the Senate, House and governor. It is also the fastest growing in the state with rapidly changing demographics. “We know how Yellowstone and Missoula counties will vote,” Raile said. “Gallatin is a little less certain. Gallatin is going to matter a lot.” Parker, Raile and fellow MSU political scientist Sara Guenther will host a live election night results program from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on YouTube assisted by MSU political science students. The show may be found Nov. 3 on http://montana.edu/election2020. For more information about the survey results, go to http://helpslab.montana.edu/.
Law Enforcement
Baker Police Department
•proactive patrols of schools, businesses and residential areas. Anyone with any information on any area crime is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 406-778-2222.
From the Bench
Justice Court
•Eli Joseph Auger, Williston, ND, hunting or fishing during closed season, game animal, bond forfeited $535, ticket issued 10/3/2020. •Donnie A. Farris, Caneyville, KY, speeding on non-interstate, exceed day limit of 70 MPH, 79/70, bond forfeited $20, ticket issued 9/29/2020. •Tyler William McClanahan, Baker, animal at large, bond forfeited $30, ticket issued 9/19/2020. •Gabino Rivera, Palmview, TX, speeding on non-interstate, exceed day limit of 70 MPH, 90/70, bond forfeited $70, ticket issued 10/1/2020. •Brandon Lee Weber, Taylor, ND, speeding on non-interstate, exceed day limit of 70 MPH, 97/70, bond forfeited $120, ticket issued 9/25/2020.
Montana VA recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Screenings and early detection increases survival rates. With over 9,100 female Veterans in Montana, the Montana VA Health Care System (MTVAHCS) is encouraging Veterans to be proactive with breast cancer screenings during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “Women have a larger presence in our military than ever before,” said Sue Calentine, MTVAHCS’s Women Veteran Program Manager. “Women also have a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer. That said, preventative screenings are the best option to identify breast cancer and also increase survival rates with early detection.” The overall five-year survival rate from breast cancer is nearly 90 percent. If the cancer is caught while it is still located only in the breast, the survival rate increases to nearly 99 percent. Both men and women can develop breast cancer, though male breast cancer is rare. In women, breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death. Routine screenings can often find breast cancer early and make treatment more successful. MTVAHCS shares these screening tips for women age 40 and up: 1. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should speak with their provider to understand how often to get screened. 2. Women ages 40 to 44 who are at average risk for breast cancer should start breast cancer screening with a once-a-year mammogram. By age 45, all women should receive annual mammograms. 3. At age 55, women can have mammograms every two years, or they can continue yearly screening. 4. Patients should share any changes they notice in their breast health with their provider as early as possible. 5. Women can reduce their risk of breast cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and not smoking. The MTVAHCS has a Women Veteran Program Manager to help Veterans access their VA benefits and health care services. Female Veterans should call Sue Calentine at 406-438-1684 with any questions.
GO BAKER SPARTANS
Good luck in your last regular season game! Friday, Oct. 23 • 7 p.m. in Colstrip
Row 1: Jonathon Reetz, Jory Miller, Konner Flint, Avery Uecker, Logan Graham, Kyler Afrank, Ashton Afrank Row 2: Carter Gion, Garrett Lesh, Tegan Miller, Bruce Higbee, Caleb Rost, Jaxson Tronstad, Colin Lorbiecke, Riley Davis Row 3: Bryten Martin, Riley Williams, Tarin DeGrand, Guy Lesh, Ethan Gundlach, Aidan Wyrwas, Rory Lingle, Bryant O’Connor, Nathan Schallenberger Row 4: Quinn Griffith, Noah Arnold, Wyatt Thielen, Cooper O’Connor, Hawken Custer, Hunter Bailey, Riley Lutts, Jaren Lingle, Jesse Brawley Not Pictured: Donnie Steen, Naveah Miller, Dean Alford
2020 - 2020 BAKER SCHOOL SPONSORS
4J WELL SERVICE ABC PLUS B & B SEPTIC SERVICES BADLANDS ELECTRIC BAKER BODY SHOP BAKER DRUG BAKER FURNITURE BAKER METAL & RECYCLING BAKER PUBLIC SCHOOLS BANK OF BAKER BATTERMAN LAW OFFICE BIG HILL BOARDING BOHLE ANGUS RANCH & BOHLE IMAGES
C&M OILFIELD SERVICE CACTUS CATTLE COMPANY, BOBBY, MISSY, WYETT, WHITNEY & WILEY THIELEN CHOICE CONSTRUCTION CIRCLE R STEEL & INSULATION CORNER BAR SALOON DARCY L. WASSMANN, P.C. DEEP CREEK CONTRACTING DICK’S HEATING & COOLING DIRECT ELECTRIC FALLON COUNTY TIMES FALLON COUNTY VETERINARY SERVICE P.C.
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FARMER’S UNION OIL CO. GRASSLANDS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION GRIFFITH EXCAVATING, INC. GRIFFITH RENTAL GRIFFITH STEEL HURLEY’S AUTOMOTIVE HWY 12 EQUIPMENT INSURANCE STORE ISMAY GRAIN COMPANY, LLC J & M LUMBER JAMES R. CAMPBELL D.D.S. MITCHELL’S CRANE & TRUCKING PLEVNA BAR & GRILL
PRAIRIE FUELS PRAIRIE ROSE CLASSICS PRECISION PART & SUPPLY QUALITY TRANSPORTATION RACHEL’S ACCOUNTING REYNOLDS MARKET ROLLING RUBBER POINT S RUSSELL’S CLOTHING SPIFFY’S STRAUB HEATING & COOLING THEE BODY SHOP THEE GARAGE BAR & STEAKHOUSE WBI ENERGY
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October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
Antelope opener makes for busy weekend at Is Gen X preparing adequately for Retirement? southeastern Montana check stations By Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
Oct. 10, marked the rifle season opener for antelope and the opener for pheasants. Check stations operating around southeastern Montana on Sunday saw a lot of hunter traffic. Antelope openers in this region often coincide with big storms. That didn’t happen, but conditions were still unusual. Saturday brought unseasonably hot temperatures, and Sunday saw extremely high winds. However, that didn’t keep the hunters away or ruin their prospects. Hysham Check Station “Even with the temperatures in the high 80s on Saturday and wind gusts over 40 miles per hour on Sunday, the harvest success rate was close to the 10-year average,” said FWP Wildlife Biologist Steve Atwood. “My observations from visiting with folks in the field Saturday, and then at the check station Sunday, was that it was busy,” Atwood said. “All or nearly all public access points had antelope hunters, but most hunters reported seeing antelope during their hunt. Hunters from the southeast corner (Hunting Dis-
tricts 704/705) reported seeing more antelope than hunters that focused on the northern portion (HD 700 and 701).” That reflects biologists’ observations that antelope populations are faring better in the southern half of the region than elsewhere, where they have been slower to recover from previous harsh winters and other factors. FWP staff checked 126 parties with 222 hunters at Hysham on Sunday, traffic well above the 10-year average. Those hunters saw a 69 percent success rate, harvesting 121 total antelope. Hunters brought 94 bucks and 27 does through. Overall antelope harvest numbers were 41 percent above the 10-year average, and buck and doe numbers were up. Broadus Check Station The Broadus check station also had heavy traffic. “It was very busy this weekend in the Broadus area,” said Wildlife Biologist Ryan DeVore. “The hunting conditions were tough, primarily due to the high winds. Despite quite a few hunters and the winds, most folks enjoyed their time afield, and many were successful or at least had
opportunities.” Most people were after antelope, with 156 hunters in 73 parties visiting the station. Their success rate was 49 percent. In total, 86 antelope were harvested, with 54 bucks and 32 does. Mosby Check Station Mosby’s check station in Garfield County was busy throughout the day, according to Wildlife Biologist Emily Mitchell. “The weather for opening weekend was a bit crazy, with an 80-degree high on Saturday and 25- to 30-mile per hour winds, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour on Sunday,” Mitchell said. “Many hunters called it a weekend early on Sunday but were still happy with their hunt, and many were going home with a cooler full of meat.” Antelope hunters experienced an 87 percent success rate, bagging 60 bucks and 20 does. Those numbers are slightly below 2019 totals, but Mitchell noted that weather brings many variables from year to year. “Hunters did report seeing lots of other hunters out in the field, but still had a good hunt and good success,” she said. The station actually saw few-
er hunters this year than last, with 102 hunters in 59 parties, compared to 132 in 67 parties in 2019. “While there were fewer hunters, opening day is always busy,” Mitchell said. “In those situations, it’s often productive to walk into areas away from busy travel routes.” “Hunters coming to Region 7 should remember that antelope numbers are significantly higher in the southeastern corner of the region, towards Broadus and Alzada and Hunting Districts 704 and 705 are the only districts where the new 799-30 tags are valid,” she said. In order to take advantage of better populations in the southern portion of Region 7, a new opportunity is the 799-30 doe/ fawn license, which is valid only in HDs 704 and 705. It is a second opportunity license that is available only to those hunters who drew a 007-20 and/or 00730 antelope license (which are valid in all of Region 7). The 799-30 license is available one per hunter. Hunters may hold up to three antelope licenses in a given year, only one of which may be an either-sex license.
Montana receives new USDA School Nutrition Grant
The USDA announced that the Montana Office of Public Instruction has been awarded a new $199,800 school nutrition grant to support the National School Lunch Program. The OPI along with the Montana Team Nutrition Program at Montana State University will develop and evaluate recipes for school meal programs using ingredients from foods produced in Montana including barley, beets, bison, chokecherries, sweet cherries, lentils and winter squash. “Agriculture is Montana’s number one industry. This grant will help strengthen the partnerships between our schools and local farmers and ranchers,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen said Monday. “Montana students should have access to local, nutritious Montana-made food while supporting their local producers.” Students and school staff will be actively engaged in recipe devel-
opment and testing through a statewide Harvesting Montana Recipes Contest. Student and community engagement will be ensured through a sub-grant program awarding six school districts funds to support student taste testing, nutrition education, and meal service. To ensure a collaborative approach is followed, school nutrition staff, educators, parents, students, farmers, and community members will participate in the process. Additionally, the USDA announced this month that they are extending the Summer Food Service Program flexibilities through June 30, 2021. This allows Montana schools to continue non-congregate meals, grab and go meals, no-cost meals, and other flexible meal services through the current school year.
During
National School Bus Safety Week and School Bus Driver Week We would like to say a big THANK YOU to our bus drivers, Sonja, Larry & Kay and our substitute drivers for your diligence and dedication. Your attention to safe and careful driving is appreciated by us all!
Trustees, Students, Staff & Community of Plevna
es Fallon County Tim
Classifieds Sell!
44 • • Call 406-778-33
Kids’ Virtual Costume Contest Submit your child’s photo, win a prize basket! Photo with the most “Likes” wins Vist our Facebook page to enter @ Reynolds Market-Baker
Future financial needs may be underestimated. If you were born during 1965-80, you belong to “Generation X.” Ten or twenty years ago, you may have thought of retirement as an event in the lives of your parents or grandparents; within the next 10-15 years, you will probably be thinking about how your own retirement will unfold. 1 According to the most recent annual retirement survey from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, the average Gen Xer has saved only about $72,000 for retirement. Hypothetically, how much would that $72,000 grow in a tax-deferred account returning 6% over 15 years, assuming ongoing monthly contributions of $500? According to the compound interest calculator at Investor. gov, the answer is $312,208. Across 20 years, the projection is $451,627. 2, 3 Should any Gen Xer retire with less than $500,000? Today, people are urged to save $1 million (or more) for retirement; $1 million is being widely promoted as the new benchmark, especially for those retiring in an area with high costs of living. While a saver aged 38-53 may or may not be able to reach that goal by age 65, striving for it has definite merit. 4 Many Gen Xers are staring at two retirement planning shortfalls. Our hypothetical Gen Xer directs $500 a month into a retirement account. This might be optimistic: Gen Xers contribute an average of 8% of their pay to retirement plans. For someone earning $60,000, that means just $400 a month. A typical Gen X worker would do well to either put 10% or 15% of his or her salary toward retirement savings or simply contribute the maximum to retirement accounts, if income or good fortune allows. 2 How many Gen Xers have Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)? These accounts set aside a distinct pool of money for medical needs. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), HSAs do not have to be drawn down each year. Assets in an HSA grow with taxes
deferred, and if a distribution from the HSA is used to pay qualified health care expenses, that money comes out of the account, tax free. HSAs go handin-hand with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), which have lower premiums than typical health plans. A taxpayer with a family can contribute up to $7,000 to an HSA in 2019. (The limit is $8,000 if that taxpayer will be 55 or older at any time next year.) HSA contributions also reduce taxable income. 2, 5 Fidelity Investments projects that the average couple will pay $280,000 in health care expenses after age 65. A particular retiree household may pay more or less, but no one can deny that the costs of health care late in life can be significant. An HSA provides a dedicated, tax-advantaged way to address those expenses early. 6 Retirement is less than 25 years away for most of the members of Generation X. For some, it is less than a decade away. Is this generation prepared for the financial realities of life after work? Traditional pensions are largely gone, and Social Security could change in the decades to come. At midlife, Gen Xers must dedicate themselves to sufficiently funding their retirements and squarely facing the financial challenges ahead.Citations. 1 - businessinsider.com/generation-you-are-in-by-birthyear-millennial-gen-x-babyboomer-2018-3 [4/19/18] 2 - forbes.com/sites/megangorman/2018/05/27/ generation-x-our-top-2-retirement-planning-priorities/ [5/27/18] 3 - investor.gov/additional-resources/free-financial-planning-tools/compound-interest-calculator [11/8/18] 4 - washingtonpost.com/ news/get-there/wp/2018/04/26/ is-1-million-enough-to-retirewhy-this-benchmark-is-bothreal-and-unrealistic [4/26/18] 5 - kiplinger.com/article/ insurance/T027-C001-S003health-savings-account-limitsfor-2019.html [8/28/18] 6 fool.com/retirement/2018/11/05/3-reasons-itsnot-always-a-good-idea-to-retire-ear.aspx [11/5/18]
a project? Decks • siDing • Roofing Pole BaRns • kitchen & BathRoom RemoDels
Come in early and get your estimates. Instead of traditional Trick or Treat... Weʻre holding a
By Jim Cusimano, Big Sky Financial Planning Group
Open
Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
• Family Owned and Operated • Most Affordable Traditional and Cremation Services in the Area • Pre-Need Arrangements • Closest Crematory in the Area • Monument Sales and Services
Final plans for a loved one can be hard. During a difficult time with numerous decisions needing to be made, let us help to be a guiding path
Silha Funeral Home & Crematory Services 1-800-368-2690 ~ 1-406-377-2622
Vote for Chuck Lee
Independent for Commissioner of District 1 • 20+ years of Local & Government Experience • Trained in Accounting • 911 Emergencies • Distaster Preparedness & Response
Taking entries October 14th - 28th Winner chosen October 29th
FREE PUMPKINS FOR KIDS Saturday, October 24 • 8 A.M. - Noon
Vote for experience - my attitude has always been “I WORK FOR YOU!”
Let me continue to represent you by dealing with Local & State issues.
Paid for by Chuck Lee, PO Box 575, Baker MT, 59313
October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
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Tester’s bill designating Suicide Prevention Hotline a household number now law Senator’s legislation designating 9-8-8 as dialing code for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline signed into law Critical mental health resources will be more accessible than ever for folks in crisis following the signing of U.S. Senator Jon Tester’s bipartisan National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 into law. “Nobody should have to go far for help during a mental health crisis,” Tester said. “Just like those reaching out to 9-1-1 in an emergency, anyone who finds themselves or a loved one in need of immediate access to mental health and suicide prevention resources will be able to dial 9-8-8 and quickly connect to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trimming the number to an easy-to-remember three-digit code will connect more people with the help they need when they need it - and that can mean all the difference for folks in crisis.” The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 directs the Federal Communications Commission to designate 9-8-8 as a universal dialing code to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and creates a Veterans Crisis
Line for veteran-specific mental health support. In addition, the bill authorizes states to collect fees to ensure local call centers are able to support increased call volume and directs government health agencies to determine strategies to improve support services for those at higher risk of suicide, including LGBTQ+ youth, minorities, and those living in rural areas. The new dialing code will be implemented in 2022. Suicide is among the leading causes of death in Montana. Tester has fought tirelessly to combat suicide and expand access to life-saving mental health resources for those in crisis. Just this week, Tester’s bipartisan Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act to improve veterans’ access to mental health resources was signed into law. Continuing his push to raise awareness for the mental health crisis impacting farmers and ranchers, Tester recently pushed his colleagues to ensure his Seeding Rural Resilience Act, bipartisan legislation supporting mental health tools in rural America, remains included in the annual National Defense Authorization Act.
Office of Public Instruction receives 5-year, $3.5 million grant The Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) has received a 5-year, $3.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to provide professional development to general and special educators in serving special needs students. The grant is authorized by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to assist states in improving their systems for personnel preparation and professional development in early intervention, educational, and transition services to improve results for children with disabilities. “Montana’s special needs students deserve every opportunity to achieve academic success,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen said Thursday. “This grant will allow the OPI to expand our resources to special education families and educators. In addition, the OPI will continue advocating for special needs students at the Legislature.” This grant will increase local capacity to support and sustain the implementation of the Montana Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) through distance learning and web-based formats for professional development and coaching support focused on data-analytic problem-solving. It will utilize teams at the state and local levels to create an efficient infrastructure for professional development, technical assistance, coaching, and communication. This project will prioritize rural and indigenous communities. In addition, the project will increase opportunities for school personnel who work with students with disabilities to exercise choice in professional development. Sheila Lovato is the State Project Director for this grant. Interested school personnel can contact Sheila at Sheila.Lovato@mt.gov or 406-444-5889.
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October 23, 2020
Fallon County Times
CALL 1-800-472-2218 CLICK WWW.BOWMANSALES.net OR STOP IN AT: 12 S. MAIN ST IN BOWMAN!
Hours Of Operation Mon. - Fri. | 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday | 8 a.m. - Noon
Home of the Ford Boys
2020 Ford Expedition Limited Max SUV
2020 Ford Expedition Platinum SUV
2019 Ford Expedition Platinum SUV
2020 Ford F-150 Raptor Crew Cab Short Bed Truck
2020 Ford Superduty F-350 Lariat Truck
MSRP ....................................................... $80,980
MSRP ....................................................... $78,440
MSRP .............................................................$75,900
MSRP .............................................................$74,390
Final Price .............................................................
Final Price ..................................................................
Final Price ..................................................................
Retail Trade-In Assistance Bonus Cash .......... --$1,250
MSRP ....................................................... $78,640 Select Inventory Retail Customer Cash ......... --$750 Retail Customer Cash ............................ --$3,500 Final price ............................................... $74,390 Retail Trade-In Assistance Bonus Cash .......... --$1,250
Conditional Final Price ............
Conditional Final Price ............
Retail Customer Cash ............................ --$4,000 Final price ............................................... $76,980
$75,730
2020 Ford F-150 King Ranch Truck
MSRP ....................................................... $70,660
$73,140
2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 Coupe
MSRP ....................................................... $67,340
F-Series Retail Customer Cash .............. --$1,750 Final Price .............................................................
Final Price ............................................................
MSRP ....................................................... $60,120
2020 Ford Superduty F-250 XLT Truck
MSRP ....................................................... $65,655
Final Price .............................................................
$67,340
$65,655
2020 Ford Expedition MAX XLT SUV
2020 Ford Expedition MAX XLT SUV
MSRP ....................................................... $59,900
MSRP ....................................................... $55,900
Final Price .............................................................
Final Price .............................................................
F-Series Retail Customer Cash .............. --$2,500 Select Inventory Retail Customer Cash ......... --$750 Final Price .............................................................
$56,870
2019 Ford F-250 Crew Cab Pickup
MSRP ....................................................... $52,900
Final Price .............................................................
MSRP ....................................................... $47,325 Retail Bonus Cash .................................. --$2,500 Select Inventory Retail Customer Cash........... --$750 Retail Customer Cash ............................... --$500 Final Price ............................................... $43,575 Retail Trade-In Assistance Bonus Cash ........... --$1,000 Conditional Final Price ............
$42,575
2019 Ford Edge SEL SUV
MSRP ....................................................... $60,875 F-Series Retail Customer Cash .............. --$2,500
Select Inventory Retail Customer Cash ...........--&750
2020 Ford F-150 XLT Truck
F-Series Retail Customer Cash .............. --$3,250
F-Series Retail Customer Cash .............. --$3,250
Bonus Customer Cash............................ --$1,500
Bonus Customer Cash............................ --$1,500
Final Price .............................................................
Final Price .............................................................
MSRP ....................................................... $47,485
MSRP ....................................................... $47,485
F-Series Retail Customer Cash ................. --$500
F-Series Retail Customer Cash ................. --$500
Final Price .............................................................
Final Price .............................................................
$46,985
$46,985
2019 Ford F-150 XLT Truck
2019 Ford Edge SEL SUV
MSRP ....................................................... $42,345
MSRP ....................................................... $35,900
Final Price ............................................................
Final Price ......................................................................
Retail Bonus Cash .................................. --$2,500 Retail Customer Cash ............................ --$1,000 Final Price ............................................... $39,615 Retail Trade-In Assistance Bonus Cash ........... --$1,000
$38,615
$42,345
2019 Ford Escape Titanium SUV
2019 Chevrolet Impala LT Sedan
Conditional Final Price ............
MSRP ....................................................... $26,900
Final Price .............................................................
Final Price .............................................................
$26,900
2020 Ford F-150 XLT Truck
MSRP ....................................................... $53,305
2020 Ford Superduty F-250 XL Truck
2020 Ford Edge ST Line Crossover MSRP ....................................................... $43,115
$58,375
MSRP ....................................................... $53,700
2020 Ford Superduty F-250 XL Truck
$51,900
Final Price .............................................................
$62,120
2019 Ford Expedition Limited SUV
Final Price .............................................................
2020 Ford F-150 Lariat Truck
F-Series Retail Customer Cash .............. --$2,500
$48,950
MSRP ....................................................... $51,900
$74,390
MSRP ....................................................... $65,370
$55,900
MSRP ....................................................... $30,900
$30,900
2020 Ford F-150 Platinum Truck
$59,900
$52,900
2020 Ford Explorer XLT SUV
$75,900
Final Price .............................................................
$68,910
2020 Ford F-150 Lariat Truck
$78,440
$35,900
2019 Ford Escape SE SUV
$48,555
2020 Ford Edge Titanium Crossover
MSRP ....................................................... $47,385 Retail Bonus Cash .................................. --$3,500 Retail Customer Cash ............................ --$1,000 Final Price ............................................... $42,885 Retail Trade-In Assistance Bonus Cash ........... --$1,000 Conditional Final Price ............
$41,885
2019 Ford Escape SEL SUV
MSRP ....................................................... $31,075
Final Price .............................................................
$31,075
2019 Chevrolet Impala LT Sedan
MSRP ....................................................... $23,900
MSRP .............................................................$22,900
MSRP .............................................................$22,900
Final Price .............................................................
Final Price .................................................................
Final Price .................................................................
$23,900
$22,900
$22,900
for more of our inventory visit
www.bowmansales.net AFTER HOURS: Josh Lindstrom 701-523-6503 | Mark Wald 701-440-8789 | Wayne Bergquist 701-523-6502