Coulter is International Knights of Columbus Free Throw Champion
Gentre Coulter
Each year the Knights of Columbus sponsors a Free Throw Contest for girls and boys ages 9 through 14. The contest proceeds in several steps. The first step is the Council Competition in which contestant shoots 15 free throws in a row. Depending on their age and sex, each contestant shoots with a girls or boys ball from either 12 feet or 15 feet. The next step is a District Contest where the Council winners compete against shooters from the councils in the immediate area. This time each shooter shoots 25 free throws in a row. The Matthew Gappa KC Council #6294 conducts the Council Contest in the schools of Baker, Ekalaka and Plevna in January. The winners then met in Baker in February for the District Competition. During this competition Gentre Coulter made an amazing 25 out of 25 free throws to win the 13
year-old boys division. He shot a boys basketball from the regulation 15 foot line to win. The winners scores are sent in for State and International awards. This year the competition was halted because of the Covid-19 epidemic and no state or international awards were given. Because of the mail in nature of the contest there is no more shooting and the best scores, even ties are awarded International Champion status. Mathew Gappa Council felt that Gentre should be recognized for this great accomplishment and produced a trophy for him. Coulter is not the first International Winner from the Matthew Gappa Knights of Columbus Council. In 1991, Kamie Newell of Baker and Kody Cline of Ekalaka were International Winners in the 14 year-old divisions.
Please come help “Light up the Park” by decorating a tree. Many beautiful trees line McClain Park and all businesses, organizations or individuals are urged to adopt one of these trees to decorate for the holiday season. Baker’s Christmas in the Park will kick off with an event to “Light up the Park” on Sunday, Nov. 29 at McClain Park. Please plan to have your decorating done by Nov. 22. Many events are being planned Nov. 29 from 3-6 p.m. including food, games, wagon rides, caroling and more. Food and craft vendors may contact Alissa Miller at milleralissa392@gmail.com or 406-852-3735, if they would like to participate and for details. For more information, e-mail bakerchamber@midrivers. com.
Stan Wagner Memorial Game Feed postponed Staff Report
The 17th annual Stan Wagner Memorial Game Feed has been postponed. It was originally scheduled to be held Nov. 14 in the Livestock Barn at the Fallon County Fairgrounds, but the recent spike in COVID-19 cases prompted the decision to reschedule to a future date, according to organizer Wendy Wagner. The game feed had recently gotten approval from the Fallon County Health Department, as long as masking and social distancing was maintained, but the increase in the number of cases in the county prompted the change. There will still be an online drawing, Wagner said. “We have two drawings and we are going to be doing them live on Facebook the night of the Nov. 14. The Game Feed will be at a later date,” she said. “It will all depend on the number of local COVID-19 cases after January,” Wagner explained. “The Wild Game Feed is not canceled but due to the recent rise of COVID-19 in our community, we are deciding to postpone the event
to a later date. We hate to have to do this but we think it is what’s best right now,” it was announced on the Fackebook page for the game feed. “If you’re wanting to get in to the Weatherby raffle or the Big Ticket raffle, you can contact one of the board members or through Facebook messenger,” the announcement stressed. Only 250 tickets will be sold for the Big raffle, and are $100 per ticket, with a limit of one per person. People wanting to purchase a ticket can contact Jake or Wendy Wagner, Jim Reetz, Darick Gorder, Justin or Andrea Koenigsfeld, Rita Nemitz, Norton Walker or Devon Banister. Among the big raffle prizes are a 2020 Polaris 500 Ranger ATV Side by Side, a $3,000 gift certificate to Guns N Things, a John Wayne Commemorative 32-40 Winchester and a Commemorative Legendary Frontiersman 38-55 Winchester. The Weatherby raffle tickets are one for $25 and five for $100. In addition, people can look for updates on the status of the Stanley Wagner Memorial Wild Game Feed event on its Facebook page, she said.
Some warmer weather ahead for Fallon County – for now Staff Report
Fallon County will be getting a brief respite from the early taste of winter – at least for the next few weeks. According to a meteorologist in the Billings office of the National Weather Service, the trend will be warmer for Fallon County after it was recently hit by a cold front and several snowstorms. The regional winter weather warnings and snowstorms of a week ago will be giving way to temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Julie Arthur, one of the NWS meteorologists. “We are going to start warming quite a bit. Friday it will be up to 48 degrees,” she said. “It is what is called a low pressure trough and it is rotating down from Canada. It is going to rotate right across Montana. It is going to bring moisture and cold weather with it,” she said Friday before the second wave of cold and snow hit the area. “There will be a brief cool down through Nov. 2, with a chance of below normal temperatures. It doesn’t necessarily mean down below zero, but it could mean below normal temperatures. “But then, it will change after that. There
will be chances of above normal temperatures,” she explained. That pattern of above normal and below normal temperature swings will continue through mid-November, she said. “Looking out to weeks three and four which takes us out to Nov. 20, we are still calling for above normal temperatures. It is hard to be that exact and if it is going to be a weekly cycle,” she explained. “In general, through late November, it is going to be warmer than normal after this period of cold leaves,” she said, noting the weather that hit Fallon County over the weekend could be a preview of the upcoming winter. The outlook for Fallon County and the area over the next few weeks if for below normal precepitation, she added. Looking further ahead, the meteorologist said that it appears that there will be below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation for the majority of the upcoming winter. That could mean more snowfall or rainstorms, depending on the temperatures. “We can get more warm ups in January here and there,” she said. “But overall, it should be a
colder than normal winter and a wetter than normal winter.” The trends can be tied to El Nino or La Nina conditions, she explained. “El Nino is warmer than normal ocean temperatures at the surface, while La Nina is colder than normal. That is a big factor in how our winter goes. “This year, we are looking at a pretty decent La Nina pattern. That will make it a colder and wetter winter, the meteorologist said. The extreme weather was borne out with reports of extreme cold and snowfall across the state. The weather dropped temperatures in Montana as low as minus 29 degrees in Potomac Sunday, reportedly the coldest temperature of the season in the lower 48 states. Reportedly Missoula had among its coldest October temperatures on record in recent days. It also logged a near record two day snowfall total of 13.8 inches, settling in as the eighth most snow on record. In Anaconda, the Montana town had a previous cold October record of 5 degrees, but shattered in Monday morning with a minus-23 degree reading.
Park drainage plan approved to move water to nearby creek Staff Report
A plan to help drain water from the north edge of the Parkview parking lot and the south edge of the City Park was approved Oct. 21 during the City Council meeting. According to Mayor Steve Zachmann, the plan is to pick up water from Parkview and carry it west to Fourth Street. “It will continue on the city side of the street…and drop the water into the creek,” the mayor told the city council. “This was a project that came from the county to drain water from Parkview...from the courtyard around the foundation. It comes underneath the parking lot and daylights at the city park. They need to add some drains so
that what they are going to do is pick up all the current drainage and take it all to the west and the north,” the mayor explained. The city council passed the motion by Brittany Hoversland to allow an easement for the drainage. It was seconded by Mike Loutzenhiser and passed unanimously. George Avenue project In other business, new public works director Rod Morris told the council that the project on George Avenue was moving along in spite of the weather and other snags. “They (the crew) are fighting through it and trying to get as much done as we can. It is an ongoing project. We are going to use all the three weeks allotted to it,” Morris added.
Tim and JJ Robinson house decorated for Halloween.
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October 30, 2020
2C District Volleyball Tournament Glendive, MT- October 29, 30, 31 2020
Social distancing and Halloween
(MetroCreative) Halloween is a unique day each year when people gather together for parties, parades and of course, trick-or-treating. October 31 is a day that most children eagerly await each year because it means an opportunity to don a costume and come home with bags full of sweet treats. This year Halloween figures to look different than it has in years past. Homes may have carved pumpkins on the doorstep and paper ghosts blowing on tree branches. And horror movies will no doubt dominate streaming service top ten lists. But thanks to the COVID-19 virus, certain Halloween traditions may not be possible. Depending on regulations in your city or town, parties, trick-ortreating and school functions (if school is in session) may be canceled or significantly modified. Since COVID-19 is so easily spread, health officials have long touted the need for social distancing. And while masks in public have long since become the norm, Halloween masks may not be sufficient. The coronavirus already has scared off some Halloween attractions. Universal Orlando, Disney World and Disneyland have canceled mainstream Halloween events for this year. Plus, a recent Harris poll on Halloween found that, of the 1,970 adults polled, nearly three out of four people have no plans to take their children trick-ortreating. So what is the public to do in the wake of the risks of going out
for Halloween? •Maintain social distancing if trick-or-treating is allowed. This could mean staggering times to go on the search for candy and avoiding homes where trick-or-treaters have already lined up. •Consider small gatherings that enable youngsters to exchange candy with a limited group of friends or neighbors. •Head to the mall or nearby stores in costume and get candy from retailers where it may be easier to maintain distance. •Wear your mask or special face coverings when trick-or-treating. Consider building a costume around the masks so it fits with the Halloween theme. •Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer when water and soap is unavailable. Limit the number of houses you visit to reduce your risk of infection. •Ask family or friends to send digital treats, such as gift cards or certificates. Many restaurants may offer voucher programs for coupons for free ice creams at their locations, and while these may not be traditional Halloween goodies, ice cream is still sure to please youngsters. •Consider car parades instead of traditional trick-or-treating. Despite the COVID-19 virus, Halloween enthusiasts can find ways to be safe and have fun this year.
Fallon County Times
OBITUARIES
John Robert Rusley, 78
Funeral services for Robert Rusley will be 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, 2020 at Stevenson Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Bonnievale Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with Prayer service at 6 p.m. Please adhere to social distancing guidelines provided by the CDC and MT Department of Health. To view the live webcast of Robert’s Funeral and Prayer service, please go to stevensonfuneralhome.com. John Robert Rusley 78, life time rancher of the 101 Community of Baker MT passed away on Oct 23, 2020 of natural causes with his wife Sharon by his side. Robert was born Sept. 7 1942 at Baker, MT to John Knute Rusley and Margaret J. (DeGrand) Rusley. He attended Chimney Creek County School and then graduated in 1960 from Baker High School. Robert was baptized in the American Lutheran Church in Baker and accepted Jesus as his Savior at a young age. Robert grew up on the family ranch working alongside his dad, brother Gary Rusley and uncle Harold Rusley. On Jan. 9, 1965, Robert married the love of his life Wilma Irene (Lacquement) Rusley. In 1967 Robert and Wilma purchased the old Harold Rusley ranch and made it way of life ever since. This was a life that he loved, giving his children a strong work ethic and a love for the land and a life of neighbors helping neighbors to the very end. To this union three children were born Robert Wayne, Phillip Bradley and Katrina Angelina. His children and grandchildren made him a very proud grandpa/ papa. He loved his kids and especially his grandkids, he traveled to as many concerts, football, volleyball, Bump N Run’s, basketball events and County Fairs as he could. He very rarely missed one. Robert and Wilma was especially proud of his Maine Anjou cross
cattle, he was part of the Maine Anjou Association for many years and continued to have lifelong friends. He loved to go fishing when he could sneak away to Sheridan Lake in South Dakota, over to the Little Missouri, down to Bart’s, over to Art Meccage’s dam and maybe Camel Hump too. He also helped his grandson Garrett get right up on some antelope in the side by side, and he would take other longtime hunting friends out and sometimes help retrieve a deer or two for them. Good times and good friends. In 2016 after his wife Wilma passed, Robert was very sad and lonely. The summer of 2018 Robert met Sharon Wolter and on Dec. 1, 2018, they were married on the deck at the ranch with a light snow, close family and then a reception to celebrate. Sharon meant everything to Robert, he loved her very much. Robert and Sharon would go check cows and water, put out lick barrels. Pete, the Border Collie, never wanted to miss a trip with them in the side by side. They traveled back to Minnesota to see friends, and family a few times. Robert was a member of the Baker Rural Volunteer Fire Department and served on the board for seven years. He also was on the Vermeer Sales bowling team and brought home a trophy or two. Robert is survived by his wife Sharon of 22 months, his children Wayne Rusley (Sandy), Eugene, OR, Phillip (Lori) Rusley and children, Dakotah, Maryssa, Baker, MT and Katrina (Jim) Johnson and children, Kirsten, Garrett, Wibaux, MT and his brother Truman Gary Rusley, Baker, MT; stepchildren, Laura (Josh) Keyser and children, Dakota, Kylee, Alyssa, Plattsmouth, NE, Kati (Greg) Albers, Sioux Falls, SD, brother-in-law Ken Lacquement (Ida) and children, Adam, Travis, Sarah; sisterin-law, Linda (Tim) Born, North Branch, MN, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife Wilma and his parents John and Peggy Rusley. Memorial can be made in honor of Robert Rusley to the Wibaux County 4-H, Baker Community Church, Baker FFA Alumni or Baker Rural Fire Department. Remembrances and condolences can be shared at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com.
Earline Pritchard, 76
Earline Faye (Livesey, Lantz) Pritchard died on Oct. 2, 2020 due to complications from a fall. She was born in Baker to Earl Charles Livesey and Wilma Myrtle Pratt Livesey. She joined an older sister, Vanita (Vonnie) and later by two younger sisters, Alison and Nancy. She attended school in Baker until she met Durell (Shorty) Lantz III in her senior year. They ran away in a blizzard to get married. They lived in Moorcroft, WY and raised a family: Zina, Scott and Tim. They later divorced. Earline lived in Wyoming, California and Arizona until moving home to Montana. She met and married Duane Pritchard in 1987. Both husbands preceded her in death. She resided in Billings near her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and friends. She welcomed everyone with a big smile and hugs. She is survived by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, her sisters; Vonnie, Alison and Nancy; and her cousins; Doug Post, Robert, Rick and Jeff Livesey. She has been cremated.
October 30, 2020
Fallon County Times
10 YEARS AGO Friday, October 29, 2010 --
Fallon County Commissioner candidates William Randash and John Tronstad answer questions regarding the needs of Fallon County if elected. . .Salon 86 opened Oct. 13 in the Lake City Shopping Center. Owner is Becky Erickson who has been licensed for five years. . .Fallon Medical Complex is having an open house Nov. 7 to welcome Amie Schillinger, PA-C to the community. . .Baker Spartan football team heads to Manhattan for their first playoff game. . .Fallon Medical Complex has a new CAT scan machine, a new x-ray room and an updated digital mammogram. . .Lady Spartan volleyball team is headed to their district tournament in Forsyth Oct. 29-30. . .Plevna Fire Department’s annual Pancake and Sausage Supper was held Oct. 9. The beautiful weather brought around 575 people out to eat. This year the firefighters made approximately 2,400 pounds of sausage. . .High temperature of 74 degrees was recorded Oct. 21.
20 YEARS AGO Thursday, November 3, 2000 --
General Election will be held Nov. 7. Contested race in Baker is between Leslie “Sonny” Crow (D) and Donald Rieger (R) for County Commissioner. . .Baker Spartans scraped by the Boulder Panthers 25-21 in their first playoff game. The next game for the Spartans will he against the Broadus Hawks Nov. 4 in Baker.
. .Friday at Lincoln School, 153 students had a “balloon launch” in honor of Red Ribbon Week. “Drug Free and Soaring to New Heights” was observed as they released the ballons. . .Hufford Construction was busy last week cutting down the hill and leveling the area between the Fallon County Times and First Street to enlarge Randash Motors display lot. . .There will be a free tailgate party Nov. 4 before the Broadus-Baker football game. . .Picture: A 9x9 non-typical mule deer buck was bagged by Scott Veroye Oct. 29. The rack measured 24 inches on the inside and 31 inches on the outside with the sticker points. . . Picture: A month’s worth of rain in less than two hours caused flooding at the Baker City Park. . .New West Livestock Exchange, LLC is holding their grand opening and bred heifer sale Nov. 11. The sale features over 500 bred heifers. There will be a free lunch and lots of door prizes. . .Last week’s winner of the football contest was Ron Rabe. . .Over 550 people attended the Plevna Pancake and Sausage Supper held Oct. 28.
FILES OF THE TIMES 30 YEARS AGO
Thursday, November 1, 1990 --
Nov. 6 Della Brockel will celebrate the 15th anniversary of her employment as a dispatcher. . .Cindy Steen recently opened the “Touch of Class Music and Dance Studio” on First Street. The building, which formerly housed Baker Video, reverberates with the sounds of music and feet and hands keeping time with it. Students pictured include Marissa Straub, Jordan O’Donnell, Justin Duffield, Shantel Steen, Raquelle Steen, Shantel Nielsen, Mandy Overton and Allen Gundlach. . .Mervin and Ruth Rustad will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary Nov. 10. . .As a saddle bronc rider in high school and college, Kevin Plummer has qualified for the N.A.R.C. World Finals Rodeo to be held in El Paso, TX, Nov. 2-10. . .A grand opening will be held Nov. 3 for Rustad Feed and Gramma Sharon’s. There will be $1.00 pie and coffee all day. . .Plevna, Baker, Terry and Ekalaka Schools are planning to implement fully interactive TV, via fiber optics, within the next few months. . .Mrs. Eugene Russell has been appointed American Heart Association’s volunteer memorial chairman in Fallon County. . .A group of interested people have gotten together and are currently searching for an appropriate musical for a local production. The “Buffalo Commons Uncommon Players” already number about 17, but anyone interested is invited to join.
40 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 30, 1980 --
Spartans finished the season with a record of 7-1-0. . .A $50 reward is being offered for the apprehension of the person or persons breaking in and looting the Country Club. . .An oil tank being used by the Permian Corp. of Baker caught fire from an unknown cause Monday night and completely destroyed the tank and its contents. . .Baker Jaycees will sponsor a Halloween party for all children from pre-school age through the fourth grade.
60 YEARS AGO
Thursday, October 27, 1960 --
Final 1960 advance population counts supplied by the census bureau gives Fallon County 3,997 in population. Baker officially has 2,365 and Plevna listed 263. Baker shows a gain of 593 since the 1950 census, the county shows a growth of only 337, and Plevna a gain of 16. . .Nov. 3 has been set as the date for dedicating the new Plevna High School. . .A fire alarm at 2:30 Wednesday, just as we go to press, brought the entire department to 6th Street East where Bill Neary’s duplex was burning. . .Osborne McMillan Elevator Company announced plans for the construction of the steam roller mill to be installed at their main elevator in Baker. . .The annual meeting of the Last Man Club was held Oct. 17. The 16 members present enjoyed a steak dinner at the Kit Kat Klub.
70 YEARS AGO
Thursday, November 2, 1950 --
Teresa Martin is pictured with a boa constrictor which was one of the high school assemblies last Monday. . .General Election is this Tuesday - vote. The Montana ballot will have four names on it for the office of President of the United States. They are Ed Clark and David Koch for the Libertarian ticket; Ronald Reagan and George Bush for Republican; John B. Anderson and Patrick J. Lucey on the Independent; and Jimmy Carter and Walter F. Mondale for the Democrats. . .Pictured is Donald Rieger together with Pete Anderson. Don was the lucky winner of the rifle given away by the Plevna firemen at the annual pancake and sausage supper. . . Open house in honor of Ed Herbst’s 90th birthday will be held Nov. 2 at the Joe Herbst home.
The benefit livestock sale by the Fallon County Memorial Hospital brought a total of $4,949.75. . .Baker Woman’s Club held the annual Montana Products dinner Monday evening at Grainger Hall. . .A fine crowd turned out Saturday evening to attend the masquerade ball given at Wildwood. Prizes were awarded to Mrs. Eddie Nelson, Don Morrow, Horace Schenck, Mrs. Geo. Severson, Mrs. Jake Kingsley and Mrs. Nellie Visborg for the best costumes. . .Mrs. Minnie Castlow of the Ekalaka Telephone Co. has announced that she expects radio-telephone services between Ekalaka and Baker to be in operation about Nov. 1. . .R. R. Stevens, county chairman for the Infantile Paralysis Foundation, has appointed Mrs. Howard Yokley as 1950 fund chairman. . .Mrs. Lucy Speelmon arrived Sunday from Spokane to make her home in Baker.
50 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 29, 1970 --
80 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 31, 1940 --
A strange occurrence happened to the sons of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Huether of Plevna when their boys were playing in the yard and a mouse charged and bit both boys and the cat that was playing with them. . .Baker Spartans finished their 1970 football season, defeating the Fairview Warriors 57- 0. The
pole and snapped a wire or two. . .Everyone should vote at the General Election, Nov. 5. . .Baker teachers have chosen for their play this season one of the best laugh hits of our time, “Professor How Could You?” In the cast is L. F. Bruggeman, Miss Marge Siebert, Miss Marking, Mr. Gullidge, Mr. Eggen, Miss Roberts, Miss Goodspeed and Miss Henk.
90 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 30, 1930 --
A narrow escape from an icy drowning was the experience of Winston Wagner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Wagner, when the thin ice broke under him while he was playing on the lake. It was through the efforts of Eph Keirle, who pulled him from the water when he heard his cries, that he was saved. . .Three one act plays, two farce comedies and one of more serious order will be presented by members of the public speaking class of the high school next week. Taking part in the plays will be Kathleen Doughtery, Harry Schorsch, Mildred MacDonald, Carol Rose, Karl Pleissner, Raymond Moline, Robert Felt, Mary Ann McGinnis, Francis Williams,Vernon West, Coleman Krokker, Ruth Maynard and Maxine Hitch.
100 YEARS AGO Thursday, October 28, 1920 --
Mr. Danley, working on the Ed. Burt farm near Willard, got mixed up with some horses the end of last week and had his leg badly broken. . .County Superintendent Lamb reports 1,439 census children in Fallon County in 1920, against 1,661 census children in 1919. This will mean a loss of state money. . .Bob Russell is getting ready to put in city water. . .The taxes are very slow in coming in this year. Perhaps the reason for that is road and market conditions. . .The delegates of the Woman’s’ club, Mesdames Price, Marks, Dousman, Erther and Millard, returned Sunday from the district convention at Roundup and report the acceptance by the convention of the invitation to Baker next year.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
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 - Election Day; Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church. Nov. 4 - Sons of the American Legion, 6 p.m., American Legion; City Council, 7 p.m., Fallon County courtroom. Nov. 5 - Baker Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture, noon. Nov. 8 - Changed For Life Church services, 10 a.m., Baker Senior Center. Nov. 9 - Celebrate Recovery, 6-8 p.m., snacks provided, Compass Coffee; American Legion Auxiliary, 6:30 p.m., American Legion; Hospital Helpers. Nov. 10 - Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., American Lutheran Church; Friends of Library, 5 p.m., library basement; School Board, 6 p.m., high school boardroom; Grief Support Gathering, 12 p.m. & 6 p.m., Stevenson Funeral Home
Nov. 11 - Veterans Day; Baker CowBelles; City Council, 7 p.m., Fallon County courtroom. Nov. 15 - 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.
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Baylee Hadley Rory Lingle Clay Rost Hayden Hadley Layn Hilde Darrell Johnson Clarence Kreager Mary Mangold Rolph Tunby Cason Brown
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Brooklyn Miller
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Jayda Harbaugh
Over 700 tickets were sold for the Farmers Frolic Saturday evening and numerous prizes awarded to the best dancers. . .Plevna, Westmore and Ismay were thrown into total darkness Sunday night when a house being moved on the old Yellowstone Trail just east of Ismay hit a guy wire, broke off a highline
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October 30, 2020
The Spartan Scroll
Middle school students “explore” their interests
Front: Ashtyn Arnold, Tasia Miller, Madison O’Connor. Back: Jerrick Moser, Caden Barth, Olivia Tiedemann, Jaxson Lyson, Julia Schallenberger.
By Sophia Dulin
Students in middle school have received the chance to explore elective courses this past quarter of the school year. This “Exploratory” class allows 7th grade students the opportunity to get a glimpse into what an elective class would be like in high school. The three CTE (Career & Technical Education) classes students have the option to take for exploratory are FACS (Family and Consumer Science), Technology, and Wood-Working. Students have been working hard covering different topics in these courses and have been finishing up summarizing projects this past week to show off their newly learned skills. In technology, students explored a wide variety of topics relating to business and technology concepts. Brooklyn Miller mentioned,
Halloween Trick or Treat
Tip #1 Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.
“The most interesting thing I learned was how to make 3-D models with just the plastic filament.” Students were able to design their own models on the computer and then got to physically print them this past week of class. Kaydree Anderson explained, “My favorite project was making a poster on how to fly a drone. I enjoyed designing it and then actually got to fly a drone afterward!” All students really enjoyed exploring different elements of technology in this class and were glad they had the opportunity to do many things they haven’t tried before. In wood-working, students have learned elements of construction and electrical work. Karlee Dyke elaborated, “We learned how to mud a wall, framed it, and made sure measurements were correct so it fit together.” Students stated they enjoyed being able to work hard on this and make a mess! Christopher Brawley thought it was useful to learn all the different tools, machines and how they worked. He sees himself being interested in electrical or construction work, so plans to take these courses in high school to see if it’s a good fit later down the road. Students really have enjoyed the fully hands-on work they get to do in this class. In FACS (Family and Consumer Science), students were able to explore elements of nutrition, cooking, and quilting. Madison O’Connor enjoyed cooking breakfast food, which is a favorite food of hers. All students got the opportunity to choose their own fabric and sewed pillow cases of their own. Ashtyn Arnold enjoyed this process and thought it was useful to learn how to run a sewing machine. Dawson Christensen enjoyed this class stating, “It was good to learn about these skills that you will need to use in real life.” Students were proud to show-off their completed pillow cases and enjoyed learning many beneficial life skills in this class this quarter. Every quarter 7th grade students get the opportunity to “explore” these elective courses and see if they are a good fit. These classes are a great opportunity to help middle school students see what courses further interest them once they get to high school.
Fallon County Times
News from the Baker Schools
SPARTAN
of the Month November High School
Jory Miller was chosen by Mr. Waldbillig as the November Spartan of the Month for high school students. Jory was chosen because of all his hard work and dedication. Jory is a leader in the classroom and has grown a lot academically this year.
Middle School
Kate Holliday was chosen by Mrs. Kirschten as the Middle School Spartan of the Month. Kate was chosen because of her improvements this year and her great attitude and willingness to put in effort.
2020 Football Season finale
By Hannah Goerndt
Last Friday, on Oct. 23, the Baker Spartans traveled to Colstrip to face off against the Colts for the last game of the regular season. Unfortunately, the boys did not beat Colstrip, and therefore will not continue on to playoffs. While it wasn’t what the team was hoping for, there were many things to be proud of this season. Jaxson Tronstad and Garrett Lesh agreed that, “It was a good season, we have a fairly young team, a lot of talented freshmen, and a lot of promise.” Senior Jory Miller said, “Overall it was a decent season for the team, it didn’t go the way I wanted, but there will be more potential for next year.” Senior Konnor Flint acknowledged his own achievements, “It was hard to face, not hav-
ing 500 season, and ending in a loss, but I caught more balls during this last game at Colstrip than I have the entire season.” The ending score was 6-26, in favor of the Colts. Sophomore Guy Lesh scored the only touchdown off a 2 yard run during the second quarter, but the PAT run was unsuccessful. Offensively, the team rushed 29/86 yards. Guy Lesh was 20/48 yards and Avery Uecker was 15/39 yards. For receiving, Konnor Flint was 3/50 yards. And Jaxson Tronstad was 5-9/76 yards for passing. On defense, for tackles, Avery Uecker had 12, Garrett Lesh had 9, and Hawken Custer had 8. For interceptions, Garrett Lesh had 1. For fumble recovery, Guy Lesh had 1.
Longfellow Elementary School
Nakona Selle was chosen by Mrs. O’Connor as the Longfellow Spartan of the Month. Nakona was chosen because of her hard work in the classroom and kindness to everyone!
Lincoln Elementary School
Camryn Kidd was chosen by Mrs. Tunby for the Lincoln School Spartan of the Month. Camryn was chosen because of his hard work and kind heart!
Fallon County
Times
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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. Nov. 4 - Special All Breeds Calf Sale Wed. Nov. 25- NO SALE due to Thanksgiving Thurs. Nov. 5- Special Weigh-Up Cow, Bull Hfrett Sat. Nov. 28- Annual Thanksgiving Special Bred Wed. Nov. 11 - Special All Breeds Calf Sale HFR & Stock Cow Sale Thurs. Nov. 12- Special Weigh-Up Cow, Bull Hfrett Wed. Dec. 2- Regular Sale w/ Feeder Calf & Wed. Nov. 18- Regular Sale w/All Breeds Calf Sale Weaned Calf Sale You can now reach us on the Internet at www.lemmonlivestock.com If you have livestock to consign or would like us to stop at your ranch, please call Lemmon Livestock at 605-374-3877 or 800-822-8853 Paul Huffman Owner/Manager 605-374-5675 or cell 605-645-2493 C & D Yards Baker, Montana 406-778-3282 Curt Williams Baker Field Rep. 406-978-2520
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 30, 2020
Fallon County Times
5
Sophomore egg lab By Dacy Buerkle
Nick Buerkle with his egg.
The sophomore biology class recently completed a lab on osmosis. The students used eggs to represent the cell, and how water moves across cell membranes. They were each given an egg and several different liquids. They then submerged the eggs into the different liquids to see how they affected the shells and membranes. After submerging the egg in vinegar for 24 hours, the shell was dissolved, and the soft but durable membrane was left. The students then submerged the eggs into water to watch how the water moved through the membrane.
Blaine Buerkle driving for the lay-up.
Sophia Schumacher popping the ball up for the setter.
Hayden Lane bringing the ball up the court past her defender.
Junior high basketball By Jenna Paul
On Oct. 23, the junior high teams traveled to Jordan to take on the Mustangs. The elementary girls’ started the day of games with a loss of 2 to 32. In the following game, the elementary boys’ lost 15 to 20. The junior high girls’ won with a final score of 21 to 16. The junior high boys’ lost 12 to 37. October 24, the Melstone Broncs came to take on our Cougar Cubs. The elementary girls’ lost 2 to 16. The elementary boys’ scrimmaged against each other. The junior high girls’ lost a hard-fought game 22 to 33. After a nail-biting game, the junior high boys’ won 31 to 25!
Seniors take the ACT
By Jenna Paul Kindergarten in their PJ’s learning about the letter P.
Kindergarten PJ and Popcorn Party By Chloe Tudor
October 22, the kindergarten class and Mrs. Bidwell had a Popcorn and PJ party! They watched Leap Frog Letter Factory, which is about a factory that writes letters that say the sounds they make, and enjoyed popcorn. Not only did the outside weather make the cozy pajamas and popcorn quite enjoyable, the class was excited to end their week with the special occasion!
After testing was cancelled in the spring and early fall, the senior class finally had the opportunity to take their ACT on Oct. 20. The ACT first started as a way to measure knowledge rather than potential, compared to its equal testing system the SAT. It is a common entrance exam used by colleges and universities to make admission decisions. The test itself takes three hours and 45
minutes, however there are breaks between each section. The ACT is divided into four small tests and an essay. You test your knowledge in English, science, mathematics and reading. Your scores will be based on the average of each of the aforementioned categories. The scores come in roughly five to eight weeks after the test was taken. It was a long day, but the Seniors were glad to get it under their belt.
Jaiden Dulin passing it to the setter.
Lady Cougars Volleyball
By Jenna Paul
On Oct. 12, the Wibaux Longhorns came to play the rescheduled volleyball game. The varsity game started with 11-25 in the first match. The second match followed as 7-25. The third match ended with 12-25, leaving the Longhorns with the win. October 24, the Plevna Cougar volleyball team traveled to Broadus to play their last game before district tournaments. The first match ended 4-25. The second match ended with 8-25. The final match score ended with 10-25.
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October 30, 2020
CLASSIFIEDS
FARM/RANCH HELP WANTED: Located in the rolling hills between Baker and Ekalaka, Montana with access to two great school systems. This is a 1/3 farming 1/3 ranching and 1/3 mechanics position with an equivalent wage starting over $20 an hour. Includes use of modern five-bedroom home, the chance to run your own cows with the first 20 for free, along with other miscellaneous benefits. Must have two yrs of full-time experience, a CDL helpful but not required and is an alcohol/smoke free workplace. Call 406-975-6236. 44-46c
WANTED WANT TO PURCHASE: Minerals and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. 36-38p
FOR RENT STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT: Baker Self Storage has units for rent. 1 – 5x10, 1 – 10x15, 4 - 15x20. Call Shawn 406-480-2980. 41tfnc
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
LEGALS LEGAL NOTICE The following is the complete text of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the Nov. 3, 2020 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(1) MCA, by Secretary of State Corey Stapleton. Text underlined below shows text to be added. THE COMPLETE TEXT OF CONSTITUTIONAL INITIATIVE NO. 118 (CI-118) Section 1. Article II, section 14, of the Montana Constitution is amended to read: “Section 14. Adult Rights. A person 18 years of age or older is an adult for all purposes, except that the legislature or the people by initiative may establish the legal age for purchasing, consuming, or possessing alcoholic beverages and marijuana.” Ballot Language CONSTITUTIONAL INITIATIVE NO. 118 A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROPOSED BY INITIATIVE PETITION
Under the Montana Constitution, a person 18 years of age or older is an adult, except that the legislature or the people by initiative may establish the legal age of purchasing, consuming, or possessing alcoholic beverages. CI-118 amends the Montana Constitution to allow the legislature or the people by initiative to establish the legal age for purchasing, consuming, or possessing marijuana. ( ) YES on Constitutional Initiative CI-118 ( ) NO on Constitutional Initiative CI-118 44c MNAXLP ____________________________ LEGAL NOTICE The following is the ballot statement of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the Nov. 3, 2020 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(2) MCA, by Secretary of State Corey Stapleton. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 46 AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION PROPOSED BY THE LEGISLATURE AN ACT SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONTANA AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XIV, SECTION 9, OF THE MONTANA CONSTITUTION TO REVISE THE METHOD OF QUALIFYING A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BY INITIATIVE FOR THE BALLOT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The 2019 Legislature submitted this constitutional amendment for a vote. C-46 modifies the state constitution to specify proposed petitions for constitutional amendments from the people must be signed by at least ten percent of the qualified electors in two-fifths of the legislative districts. It repeals a different standard found to be unconstitutional in 2005. ( ) YES on Constitutional Amendment C-46 ( ) NO on Constitutional Amendment C-46 44c MNAXLP ____________________________ LEGAL NOTICE The following is the ballot statement of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the Nov. 3, 2020 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(2) MCA, by Secretary of State Corey Stapleton. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 47 AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION PROPOSED BY THE LEGISLATURE AN ACT SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONTANA AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE III, SECTION 4, OF THE MONTANA CONSTITUTION TO REVISE THE METHOD OF QUALIFYING AN INITIATIVE FOR THE BALLOT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The 2019 Legislature submitted this constitutional amendment for a vote. C-47 modifies the state constitution to specify proposed petitions for citizen ballot initiatives must be signed by at least five percent of the qualified electors in one-third of the legislative districts. It repeals a different standard found to be unconstitutional in 2005. ( ) YES on Constitutional Amendment C-47 ( ) NO on Constitutional Amendment C-47 44c MNAXLP ____________________________ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING City of Baker Board of Adjustment Fallon County Courthouse Courtroom 10 West Fallon Ave. Baker, MT 59313 (All information related to this notice can be viewed at the Fallon County Planning Department) The Board of Adjustment will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2020, at 7 p.m. in the Fallon County Courthouse Courtroom. The proposed public hearing is handicap accessible. The purpose of this hearing is to review a Conditional Use Permit for the Sagebrush Inn to allow a 30’ camper to be parked behind the Motel located at 518 West Montana Ave., Baker, MT. 17.08.035 - Conditional use; conditional use permit. (1) “Conditional use” means a use that is not a permitted use in a zoning district due to its unique characteristics and circumstances. It may be permitted subject to conditions that mitigate the impacts associated with the use.(2) “Conditional use permit” means the written permit authorized by the board of adjust-
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 ment to locate a conditional use at a particular location. Written comments may be sent to the Fallon County Planning Department, P.O. Box 1134, Baker, MT 59313, or via email grubem@falloncounty.net. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. 44-46c MNAXLP ____________________________ PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Monday, Nov. 16, 2020 7 p.m. Plevna Community Center Plevna, MT (All information pertaining to this notice can be obtained from the Fallon County Planning Department) The Town of Plevna Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020, at p.m. at the Plevna Community Center located on Main Street. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a zone change request submitted by 4J Well Service from Residential to Commercial. The Town of Plevna Council will conduct their public hearing surrounding this zone change request and consider the Town of Plevna Zoning Commission’s recommendation at the Town Council Meeting scheduled for Monday, Dec. 14, 2020, at 7 p.m. at the Town of Plevna Town Hall. 4J Well Service has submitted an application for a Zone Change Request. The property in question is located at the Plevna Original Townsite, Block 11, lots 6,7,8,9,10, Plevna, MT. This is zoned Residential and 4J Well Service is requesting to change it to Commercial. The purpose of this zone change is to change the use to a Storage facility for RV Storage, which could be considered a Commercial use. 76-2-307. Zoning commission. In order to avail itself of the powers conferred by this part, except 762-306, the city or town council or other legislative body shall appoint a commission, to be known as the zoning commission, to recommend the boundaries of the various original districts and appropriate regulations to be enforced therein. Such commission shall make a preliminary report and hold public hearings thereon before submitting its final report, and such city or town council or other legislative body shall not hold its public hearings or take action until it has received the final report of such commission. 44-46c MNAXLP ____________________________ NOTICE An application for a Floodplain Permit CB10082020 has been submitted to the City of Baker Floodplain Administrator. (All information related to this notice can be viewed at the Fallon County Planning Department). All your comments and concerns are welcomed. Date of Notice: October 25, 2020 Date of Application: October 8, 2020 Applicant: Fallon County Fallon County Medical Center P.O. Box 846 Baker, MT 59313 Scope/Purpose of Project: The main purpose is to install enhanced drainage systems around the Parkview Retirement Complex of the Fallon County Medical Center. The current storm water collection and disposal systems do not provide adequate collection and portions of the Retirement Complex have been inundated with water causing damage to the structure and threats to life safety of the residents. The modifications will install a new 24-inch HDPE pipe from the parking area on the north side of
the property that will collect and route storm waters away from the Hospital and Retirement Complex. The storm water will be routed to a new discharge point in the Unnamed Tributary to Sandstone Creek that also serves as the overflow for Lake Baker. Best management practices will be incorporated into the project to ensure minimal erosion and restoration of vegetation to channel as soon as possible, Further, the project engineer has stated that the work will not alter flood heights or velocities. All work is anticipated to be completed during the winter of 2020 - 2021. All disturbed areas will be seeded and mulched. Name of Stream/Water Body: Unnamed Sandstone Creek Tributary. Location of Project: Unnamed
Sandstone Creek Tributary near 3rd Street West, Baker, MT, 59313. Geocode39-1652-13-2-31-01-000. The project is located in the NW1/4 Section 13, Township 70N Range 59E, City of Baker, County of Fallon, State of Montana. Comments concerning this application for a permit related to this activity in the floodplain must be submitted within fifteen (15) days of this notice, or by Monday, Nov. 16 2020 at 5 p.m. to the Fallon County Planning Department, Attention: Mary Grube, Floodplain Assistant, P.O. Box 1134, Baker, MT 59313 grubem@falloncounty.net. 44c MNAXLP
October 30, 2020
Fallon County Times
7
General Election Tuesday, November 3, 2020 DROP OFF LOCATION
Precinct 1 Countywide Early Vote/Mail Ballot General Election - County Courthouse - 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. • Handicap Accessible • Absentee applications accepted in the Clerk & Recorder’s Office until 12 p.m. (Noon) Monday, November 2, 2020
ELECTION RESULTS
Will be posted on the Secretary of State website. Go to www.falloncounty.net for the link, on election night. DO NOT EXPECT ANY RESULTS POSTED BEFORE 11:00 P.M. ON ELECTION NIGHT
PUBLIC TESTING
Of ExpressVote will be on Friday, October 30, 2020 at the County Courthouse
NOTICE OF MAIL BALLOT COUNT
Mail ballots will be publicly counted on election day starting at 10 a.m. at the following locations: County Courthouse 10 West Fallon Ave - Baker, MT 59313, as specified in 13-15-201, MCA, by the following method(s): (1) Hand counting (2) By election judges appointed to count ballots (3) While the Election office is open 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., any person observing the procedures of the count must take the oath provided in 13-15-112(4), MCA. The ballot count will continue after the Election Office is close as needed.
Notice of Voting System Exhibition, Diagrams, and Voting Instructions Pursuant to 13-17-203, not more than 10 or less than 2 days before an election at which a voting system will be used, the election administrator shall broadcast on radio or television, as provided in 2-3-105 through 2-3-107, or publish in a newspaper of general circulation in the county: a diagram showing the voting system to be used by voters and a sample of the ballot layout (in newspaper only); a statement of the locations where voting systems to be used by voters are on public exhibition; and instructions on how to vote. The election administrator shall select the method of notification that the election administrator believes is best suited to reach the largest number of potential electors.
Notice of Voting System Exhibition and Ballot Layout: Please note that the county’s voting systems are on public exhibition at Clerk & Recorder Office from October 2, 2020 through November 3, 2020. Please see diagrams of the voting system(s) and ballot arrangement and instructions on voting below.
The ExpressVote is a ballot-marking system that is available for anyone to use during the upcoming election. Its main purpose is to allow voters with disabilities and other special needs to mark a ballot privately and independently. 1. Inform the election official that you wish to vote using ExpressVote. 2. You will be issued a ballot card. 3. Insert the ballot card into the ballot feed tray on the front of the machine. 4. The screen will display instructions and the ballot choices. 5. The following helpful options are available: a. Change contrast and font size for readability b. Audio headphones c. Braille keypad d. Connection for Sip-n-Puff personal device 6. Make your selections by using the touch-screen capability, or by using the keypad. 7. After you have completed your selections, the ExpressVote will con firm your selections on the screen, and by audio if you select the audio option. 8. After verifying your selections, the ExpressVote will mark and print out your ballot card. 9. Confirm your choices on the printed and marked ballot card. 10. Return the marked ballot card to the election official. 11. You can request help anytime during the process.
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October 30, 2020
Fallon County Times
October 30, 2020
Fallon County Times
O’Fallon Historical Museum News
By Melissa Rost, Curator, O’Fallon Historical Museum
O’Fallon Historical Museum has been taking all the necessary precautions in regard to COVID-19 and we are open! During this time we are happy to be able to display some local students’ artwork while the schools remain closed to the public in a prudent effort to keep students and staff safe. Currently Mrs. Johnson’s sixth grade class has a display of beautiful sunflower paintings as well as writings they did about what it would be like to live in a homestead cabin. In honor of Indigenous Peoples Day and Native American Heritage Month, the museum has brought in an exhibit on loan from the Wyoming State Museum for the months of October and November. This collection of ledger art prints gives an intimate glimpse into the life of a nineteenth century Lakota Sioux warrior. We have added some of our own elements to this display as well, including a video, music, books for browsing, an art station, and an educational collaboration from the Montana Historical Society and the Office of Public Instruction. We also have Tribal
Nations maps on loan from Baker Schools that were purchased with an Indian Education For All grant from OPI. October 30 the museum will be participating in the Chamber of Commerce’s Downtown Trick or Treat. We are a little off the beaten path of the downtown route but we would love to have the kiddos stop by for some candy and games! We will also keep our buildings open until 7 p.m. that night in case you are brave enough to take a self-guided after dark tour. We were unable to make our popular “Night at the Museum” event happen safely in the middle of a pandemic, but at least you can come see “The Museum at Night.” Finally… we are looking for input from you, the public, for our next project! In December and January we are doing an exhibit called, “The Lights of Home.” 2020 has been a unique year, and we want to do something to commemorate it, a time capsule of sorts, so in a hundred years the citizens of Baker can look back and get a glimpse of how this pandemic played out in their home town. The theme of light seems to be a fitting focus – can’t we all use a little more light (literally and figuratively) these days?! Here’s how you can
contribute: Make a star. Any material… paper, plastic, wood, yarn, fabric, whatever… as long as it is 6 inches or smaller so we have enough display room. Submit a photo or a story. You can send these digitally (museum@falloncounty. net) or you can drop them off at the museum. It can be of anything that was significant to you in 2020. Maybe a picture of you visiting the grandkids through the window. Maybe a new hobby you took up during quarantine. Maybe the masks you made to help keep the community safe. Whatever best tells your 2020 experience! We ask that you submit these items to the museum by Nov. 15. When the exhibit is over at the end of January you can pick up your star/photo/story within 30 days if you would like it back. All items will be digitally archived for posterity. You can contact the museum for any questions or if you need us to stop by and pick up your contribution. We’re excited to see what everyone comes up with! We are open weekdays from 9 a.m12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m. through the winter months. Stay safe, Fallon County – we look forward to seeing you soon!
Recent poll finds Montanans unsure about taking potential COVID-19 vaccine By Carol Schmidt, MSU News Service
Regardless of party affiliation, Montanans increasingly report uncertainty that they will take a potential COVID-19 vaccine, according to responses to a recent Montana State University pre-election poll. MSU political scientists collected the responses from 1,787 Montanans as part of the Treasure State 2020 Pre-election Poll. In addition to surveying political preferences for the upcoming general election, the poll’s developers asked a variety of questions about views, behaviors and experiences related to the pandemic. The responses were collected from Sept.14 and Oct. 2, prior to the recent surge of positive coronavirus cases throughout Montana. MSU political scientist Eric Raile, one of the architects of the survey, said the poll indicated uncertainty exists in all populations about a potential COVID-19 vaccine - with Democrats much more likely now to say they don’t know if they will get vaccinated, while Republicans are much more likely now to say they’ll not get vaccinated. “A great deal of uncertainty exists overall about potential vaccination, often due to concerns over unproven safety of a vaccine,” said Raile, an associate professor in the MSU Department of Political Science. “A majority of respondents overall (59%) either will not (28%) or do not know whether they will (31%) get vaccinated. Women are more likely to say they will not get vaccinated (34% to 24%). Further, older age
groups are more likely to say they will get vaccinated.” Raile and MSU political science colleagues David C.W. Parker and Elizabeth Shanahan included a set of more than a dozen COVID-19 questions in the pre-election political poll, in part to compare with responses gathered last April in a similar poll they administered to Montana residents about the impact of the virus. Data services for both polls were provided by the MSU HELPS Lab, which Raile directs. “Overall, a much smaller percentage of people now say they will definitely get the vaccination,” Raile said. “Nationally, Democratic politicians have been emphasizing concerns about vaccine safety, and those views are likely being reflected among Democrats in Montana.” Raile said he was surprised to see greater opposition to a vaccine among female respondents than male respondents. He said this may be a result of information consumption patterns, particularly with regard to viewing anti-vaccination content on social media. Generally, the poll revealed that the respondents reported low to moderate levels of worry about the impact of the pandemic on their health, though worry does increase with age “The vast majority of respondents (78%) see themselves as being at low or moderate risk of catching the coronavirus,” Raile said. Raile said that as with the spring survey, party affiliation was a key factor in several responses, with Republicans who responded to the poll typical-
ly holding different views than Democrats, independents and those with other partisan affiliations. While those partisan divisions were apparent in April during the early days of the pandemic, they are more strongly held in some ways after six months. Raile said that in answers to several of the questions, independent voters take stances closer to Democratic voters than Republican voters. “The pandemic seems to be an issue that is compelling independents toward Democratic views.” For example, Raile said one highly partisan issue is statewide orders for wearing of face coverings, which is supported by 95% of Democrats compared to 30% of Republicans. Sixty-four percent of independents said they support orders for face coverings. There was also a division related to how frequently the respondents said they wore a face covering indoors where people from outside their household were interacting. “Republicans again stand apart, with a majority (55%) saying they only sometimes (36%) or never (19%) wear face coverings,” Raile said. “By contrast, nearly all Democrats (88%) say they wear face coverings always or most of the time, with corresponding majorities for independents (75%) and those with other partisan identities (77%).” Among respondents who did not always wear face coverings, the most frequent reason given was that the risk of infection was low (32%). Personal freedom was another popular answer overall (18%), a result driven
~• Halloween full moon •~
(MetroCreative) Many images associated with Halloween feature a cloud-draped full moon in the background. Whether a witch is stirring her cauldron, bats are flying through the air or zombies are rising from a cemetery, a full moon is prominent in Halloween imagery. But just how common is a full moon on All Hallow’s Eve anyway? According to “The Farmer’s Almanac,” a Halloween full moon occurs only once every 18 to 19 years. Luckily for full moon lovers, they’ll get to witness two full moons in October 2020. The Full Harvest Moon took place on Oct. 1, 2020, and marks the full moon nearest the autumnal equinox, which occurred on Sept. 22 this year. In addition, the Full Hunter’s Moon rises on Halloween night. The sec-
ond full moon also is known as a blue moon. This is when two full moons appear in a single month, something that happens on average every 2.5. to 3 years. This unusual and rare event is the basis behind the phrase “once in a blue moon.” Those who peer out at the full moon on Halloween will not notice a blue tinge to the moon, but it will be something that’s very uncommon. Try to catch the moon when it has first risen over the horizon, shortly after sunset, when something called the “moon illusion” is visible. When the moon is low and viewed in relation to trees and chimneys, the moon can seem more massive than when it is high in the sky. This can serve as the perfect backdrop for vivid Halloween photos.
primarily by Republicans, he said. Overall, worry about an economic depression being set off by the pandemic is a little lower now than it was in April, Raile said, even though 30% of all respondents reported lost income or wages and 16% of the respondents reported being laid off or furloughed. “However, those are pretty big numbers in historical context,” Raile said. “This event has had large consequences for the workforce in Montana.” Raile said the analysis saw similar responses in terms of stress, worry and disruption due to the coronavirus when comparing the April and September surveys. “Overall, a majority of respondents (66%) say their lives have been disrupted just a little (27%) or some (39%) by the coronavirus pandemic. Younger respondents are more likely to report a high level of disruption due to the coronavirus pandemic, perhaps due to children and work concerns. The partisan divide is smaller here, and gender and education level do not produce consistently different responses.” The political scientists said they will distribute a post-election poll after the Nov. 3 general election, with results expected by the beginning of 2021. The post-election poll will investigate vote choices and related views about policies and political events. For a full analysis of the data presented in the Treasure State Poll, go to http://helpslab.montana.edu/.
Halloween Trick or Treat
Tip #2 Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
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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
•Blaize J. Erickson, Baker, careless driving, bond forfeited $85, ticket issued 10/10/2020. •Katerina S. Marlow, Lead, SD, speeding on non-interstate, exceed night limit of 65 MPH, 75/65, bond forfeited $20, ticket issued 9/30/2020. •Brian Joseph Marshall, Eugene, OR, speeding on non-interstate, exceed day limit of 70 MPH, 79/70, bond forfeited $20, ticket issued 7/18/2020. •Curtis Allen Olson, Esko, MN, fail to follow conditions and requirements or special permit, bond forfeited $135, ticket issued 10/6/2020.
City Court
•Marvel Coons Murphy, Baker, owner permitting operation of vehicle without liability insurance, 2nd offense, fine of $385, defendant shall surrender plates and registration of the 2009 Ford for a period of 90 days, Restricted Registration Receipt will be allowed once fees are paid, ticket issued 8/19/2020. •Jonathon H. Reetz, Baker, operating with expired registration, failure to Re-Register, dismissed by Court pursuant to the defendant providing proof of valid registration on the date and time of the citation, ticket issued 9/23/2020. •Jonathon H. Reetz, Baker, careless driving, bond forfeited $85, ticket issued 9/23/2020.
Legal Tip of the Week If one of the people named in my will dies before me, do I have to write a new will? Maybe. It is definitely a good idea to review your will. Many wills use “alternates.” An alternate is someone who gets your property if the person first in line passes before you do. If you chose an alternate in your will, and you still want your property to go to that person, then you don’t need to re-write your will. However, if multiple people in your will pass away, you have a significant change to your assets or wealth, or you have another major life change, it is a good idea to consider making changes to your will. You may be able to get free legal help with a will by applying to Montana Legal Services Association. Apply online at mtlsa.org or by calling our Helpline at 1-800-666-6899, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To learn more, check out our Wills & POAs section on MontanaLawHelp.org. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, try our smart search bar. Or call the Montana Legal Services Association HelpLine at 1-800-666-6899. Support free legal information for all Montanans at mtlsa.org/donate/.
Joke of the Day
What does Thanksgiving have in common with Halloween?
GOBBLE-INS!
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October 30, 2020
Fallon County Times
Commerce Department launches program to provide legal assistance for Montanans facing pandemic-related evictions The Montana Department of Commerce announced Tuesday a new partnership with the Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) to form the Montana Eviction Intervention Project, a new program that will provide civil legal assistance for Montanans facing evictions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. “This partnership is to make sure Montana renters have access to free legal resources that can provide information, guidance and support so people can stay in their homes and not have to worry about possibly being evicted,” Montana Department of Commerce Director Tara Rice said. “The Montana Eviction Intervention Project will help financially stressed Montanans who are facing an eviction with free legal representation before or during an eviction proceeding.” The COVID-19 public health emergency has more adversely affected people who normally live paycheck-to-paycheck and are suddenly out of work and struggle to pay for food or rent. Although there are some civil legal solutions
available for struggling renters, they are often too complicated to navigate without support from legal or housing experts. For example, the current nationwide Centers for Disease Control eviction moratorium contains numerous complex legal requirements. Through the Montana Eviction Intervention Project, MLSA will work with Justices of the Peace and Clerks for Limited Jurisdiction Courts across the state, as well as the Supreme Court’s Office of the Court Administrator to develop a referral system for people who are representing themselves in an eviction and connect those people with an attorney to provide legal services. “We are excited to be able to launch the Montana Eviction Intervention Project with the support of the Department of Commerce and the Governor’s Office,” MLSA Executive Director Alison Paul said. “This project will provide valuable legal representation to Montanans struggling to get by in these difficult times. Through the project, the Montana Legal Services Association will
help Montanans avoid illegal evictions, negotiate with landlords to obtain additional days to move out and plan an alternative home, connect with available social services, educate judges on the new eviction ban and avoid negative legal judgements for tenants. The goal of these services is to decrease the number of homeless Montanans during the coronavirus public health emergency “ The Montana Eviction Intervention Project is supported by a $70,000 grant provided by the Montana Department of Commerce using federal CARES Act funding. The program will continue to assist Montanans who are facing an eviction and need legal assistance until December 30, 2020. For more information visit MONTANALAWHELP. ORG or call 1-800-6666899. Montana renters who have lost income due to COVID-19 may be eligible for monthly rent assistance through the Emergency Housing Assistance program. The deadline to apply is Nov. 10, 2020. Apply at COVIDRELIEF.MT.GOV.