The Sargent County 4-H Awards Program was held virtually over Zoom on November 22. The program is usually held in Forman with an audience of members, parents, and grandparents but things were changed this year. The Sargent County Extension Office staff did a wonderful job coordinating the event. The program began with the 4-H Club Leader Awards, the Friend of 4-H Award, and First Year Member Awards. Several 4-H Contest Awards were presented for Crops and Horse Judging, the Horse Quiz Bowl, and the Sargent County Communication Award. The Project Awards, Interview Awards and Membership Awards were presented to deserving youth who had entered the 4-H Achievement Days that were also held virtually in July. Congratulations to the Rutland Raiders 4-H Members who took home over twenty awards in the various categories.

On Saturday, December 5th, The Lariat Bar was going to celebrate owner Pete’s birthday by hosting an ugly sweater party and karaoke. However, with the limited capacity and early closing hours they have decided to change things up. They will still celebrate Pete’s birthday and have an Ugly Sweater Party and Karaoke just a bit earlier. Stop on by for a few drinks, sing a song or two and have a great meal all starting at 3 pm. And do not forget to wear your ugliest sweater and wish Pete a happy birthday! Hope to see you all there!

The Rutland City Council will hold its last meeting of 2020 on Monday, December 7, starting at 5 p.m. Council meetings are always open to the public. Social distancing is maintained.

Santa Claus is making alternative travel and visitation plans during this year of COVID-19. With the change in his plans, the Rutland Community Club will not be hosting a visit to the Rutland Hall this December. Like the Elf on the Shelf this year that has to be quarantined for 14 days before making his rounds, Santa can not squeeze in all the time for the visits with quarantine rules. Santa is making a plan for his safe visits to homes this winter, so you better be good!

That is all the news from Rutland this week. Stay warm and be safe.