April 1, 2015 by Tricia's Trader

April 1, 2015 Volume XIII Issue 7

PRSRT STD

Postal Customer

$10.00 s! Classified

FREE-E! TAKE ON

I N SID E: 

This issue’s AG SERIES: R-CALF p. 16

 Senior Menus, Real Estate, Hooves & Horns and So Much More!

800-756-1817 w w w . T r i c i a s T r a d e r . c o m

Over 7,500 copies distributed all across NorthCentral Montana!

northern premier angus sale!!! see Pg. 9 April 9, chinook, Bear Paw livestock

Annual 19th

Milk River

“Your Source for Bulls on the Hi-Line” Performance Tested • Fertility Tested Ultrasounded • Free Delivery within 300 miles

Bull Sale Sale Day Phone 406/ 357-2286

1:00 pm • Bear Paw Livestock • Chinook, MT • Lunch at Noon

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Selling Sons & Grandsons of:

BlueGrass Right Time • GDAR Game Day 449 • SAV Final Answer 0035 Ideal 4636 of 452 6187 • SAV Brilliance 8077 • CAR Chinook 786 • GDAR Timeless 255

Bulls Sell

For Complete Sale Information and Sale Book, Contact

Clayton Hofeldt • 406-945-0850

Download our Sale Book at www.BallyhooPrinting.com Bulls can be viewed at Hould Feedlot & Bull Center in Malta, MT

Milk River Angus Bull Test Consignors

Four Butte Cattle Co. (4B) Kent & Judy Pike 406-357-2994 fourbuttes@hotmail.com

C Bar Angus (C-) Bruce & Ross Christofferson 406-658-2131 or 406-658-2153 rc516@mtintouch.net

North Fork Angus (NFA) Kade, Shane & Morgan Friede 406-357-2410 sfriede@hotmail.com

Bryan Pike (BP) 406-788-5952 bpike4@hotmail.com

Bar 9 Ranch (-9) Clayton Hofeldt • 406-945-0850 bar_9_ranch@hotmail.com

DH Registered Angus (DH) Dale Hofeldt • 406-357-3785 dalehofeldt@yahoo.com

Tricias Trader 6x6.indd 1

3/20/15 7:59 AM

For Sale: RARE KNIVES Large Selection RUANA CASE XX ~ SCHRADE Hard - to - find USA-made Old Timer & Uncle Henry Knife/Scissor Sharpening Big Sky Images & Collectibles Havre Holiday Village Mall ~~~~~(406)399-6522~~~~~ 2-II:5-I For Sale: 1989 black Grand Wagoneer, parts vehicle. Good engine, complete power tran, interior removed. Best offer. Call 406-761-3371 at home or cell, 788-6017. 4-I

For Sale: 2011 Kawasaki Teryx side by side, automatic transmission, 1/2 windshield and full windshield, top, winch, run through shop, 3,700 miles. $8,150. Call 406278-7853. Ask for Kurt. 4-I

Wanted: Used parts for--Rear Brake Drum & Cam for 1995 Honda Fourtrax 200D Type II TRX 2000. Call evenings, 406-357-3342. 3-II:5-I

Price Reduced! 211 Norman Ave Joplin, MT. $29,000, 3 Wanted: Summer pasture. bedroom, 2 bath, 1 garage. Please call 406-654-2814, Newer siding, roof, windows leave a message. 4-I and exterior doors. Property West, 265-7800. 3-II

PLLC

CONTENTS:

Classifieds, Classifieds!

Advertising Info............... 16 Ag Series........................ 18 Bill’s Food Corner........... 25 Bull Sale Calendar.......... 13 Comic............................. 17 Conservative Cow Dr...... 20 Dave Says........................ 6 Dining Guide....................11 Laugh Lines.................... 17 Letters to Editor.............. 21 Market Report................... 9 Money Talks.................... 12 Realty Section.................. 8 HI-LINE HAPPENINGS.. 22 Senior Ctr Menus... next iss. Subscriptions.................. 16 “Things to Know”.............. 4 See pg 16 for deadlines, rates & to place an ad! Paid Classified Rates: Classified, $10 up to 8 lines $1 per line each add’l 13 lines maximum. $5 bold, $5 boxed Runs two issues.

Ask about FREE Classifieds!

For Sale: Farm equipment-9170 Case Tractor, 2320 Flexicoil Drill, Steiger Panther III 310, 2188 Case Combine, 962 MacDon header, 1015 Case pickup attach., 4240 JD 2WD tractor, 67XL Flexicoil sprayer. Call 406-379-2362 or call/text 390-1780. 4-I

Robin's Roost in Malta. Located between the Lucky Bullet and Moore's Printing. Fashions for the curvy girl! We carry sizes small to 3xl. 4-I Eayrs Angus 13th Annual Production Sale, Thursday, April 9th at Glasgow Stockyards @ 1:00. Call for more info, 406486-5684 or 406-230-1201. 3-II

Amazon Shoppers: Did you know Amazon will donate a portion of your purchase to the Big Flat Community Grain Bin, Inc.? Visit www. smile.amazon.com. Purchases MUST be made through Amazon Smile to qualify. x

Wanted: Good condition New Holland Hay Inverter, Model 166 or similar. Wanted for parts: Case International 5000 Swather w/ double auger header. Leave msg at 406-654-5253. 10-I:3-II

THINGS TO KNOW:

Help Wanted: Progressive farm looking for dependable, quality help for summer season. Potential to continue on into fall and winter. Skills required to operate farm equipment – tractors, trucks, and implements, irrigation and cattle feeding. East of Havre. Competitive pay scale w/ bonuses. Fax resume to 888-249-8752 or call 888-988-2283. 4-I

Apr. 4, Sat.: SUPPORT JALISSA HORINEK, fundraiser for Student Ambassador trip, All-You-Can-Eat Pork Roast & Ham Dinner, Higham Community Center, $10/ticket or $30 for family of 4, HUGE Silent Auciton, Lots of door prizes, No lose Booze Raffle, Raffle Winners Drawn: Pig, Gun & Large 3 places raffles. 5:00 p.m. Apr. 10-12, Fri-Sun.: 21ST ANNUAL WESTERN HERITAGE ROUNDUP of the Montana Country Poets & Pickers, Chinook High School & Chinook Motor Inn. Evening shows at 6:30 Fri./Sat., Sat. all day 10-5. Free sessions at Motor Inn. Cowboy Church 10am, Sun. ART SHOW on Sunday, as well. Call 353-2383 for more info. First and Third Mon. of the Month.: HAVRE CHRISTIAN SCHOOLMeadowlark Estates, 4113 9th St. W., Havre 6:30pm-8:00pm. More info call Barbara Fell, 390-8045. Open to all denominations. Retired: 1983 JD 7720 combine $6,500, 1985 Case 8500 45ft air seeder $6,300, 1993 Wilmar 80ft propelled sprayer with new engine $21,200. Call 406-262-3655. 3-II

Gary & Leo’s IGA-Bakery Hiring! Position opening: Baker, 40 hours/wk, $9.50$13.50 DOE. Benefits:Medical, Dental and Prescription Drug Coverage, 401-K Retirement Fund w/Employer Matching, Paid Vacation, & Holiday Pay. Apply in person or at the Havre Job service. 4-I

For Sale: Solid mahogany bedroom set, triple dresser w/ mirror, armoire, shelves plus 3 drawers, queen headboard, nightstand w/ two drawers, $500. 406-759-5553. 3-II For Sale: Bred cows, bred heifers and pairs. Thompson Cattle Co. 406-654-4278. 3-II Price Reduced! 3 bdrm,1 bath home in Rudyard, MT. Nice open floor plan with nice updates. Large master suite with patio & new carpets throughout. $72,000. Call Janis Flynn Pyrak 406-265-9400. 4-I

DAVE SAYS:

Who Is Dave Ramsey?

Dave Ramsey is a personal money management expert, popular national radio personality and the author of three New York Times bestsellers – The Total Money Makeover, Financial Peace Revisited and More Than Enough. In them, Ramsey exemplifies his life’s work of teaching others how to be financially responsible, so they can acquire enough wealth to take care of loved ones, live prosperously into old age, and give generously to others. * Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover, EntreLeadership and Smart Money Smart Kids. His newest best-seller, Smart Money Smart Kids, was written with his daughter Rachel Cruze, and recently debuted at #1. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 8 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

DEAR DAVE, What’s your opinion on rewarding kids with money for getting good grades in school? ~Joe Dear Joe, Honestly, I don’t have a strong opinion about it one way or the other. We didn’t pay our kids for good grades, but I can’t really think of a strong argument not to pay them for success in school. You could say you shouldn’t pay them because it’s something they’re expected to do anyway, and that’s somewhat valid. But you could also make the same point where chores around the house are concerned, too. We paid our kids to do some chores, but really the point is not about the economic value. It’s the fact that you want your kids to associate work with money. I still meet people my age and older who haven’t made that connection. Work creates money, and that’s an important thing to teach your kids. Once they’ve created some money by working, then you want to use those moments to teach them to save, spend and give wisely. You can do this around the subject of grades if you want. There’s probably a valid case to be made that getting an “A” takes a lot more work than getting a “C.” You’re certainly not obligated to pay them for work or grades, but if you don’t do some of this – and teach them the proper ways to handle the money they earn — you’ll miss out on a lot a fantastic teachable moments. ~Dave DEAR DAVE, My husband and I are on Baby Step 2 of your plan. We’ve got our starter emergency fund of $1,000 in the bank, and we’re busy paying off credit cards and unpaid taxes from previous years. He thinks it’s okay to take trips and save up for other fun things while we’re doing this, but I disagree. I want to cut out all extra spending and pay off our debt as fast as possible. What’s your opinion? ~Laura Dear Laura, It’s okay to do those things in the general philosophy of life. Unfortunately, that’s not what I teach when it comes to getting out of debt and gaining control of your finances. The reason people are successful following my plan is because I teach common sense combined with an unbridled, scorched-earth kind of intensity. Let’s take a closer look at this. You have unpaid taxes, not to mention credit card debt hanging over your heads, and he’s talking about going on a trip and saving up for toys? I’m sorry, but that’s completely irresponsible. Remember when we were kids, and Mommy and Daddy wouldn’t let us go outside and play until we had cleaned up our mess? That’s the kind of thing I teach. There’s a process here. There’s an idea and a concept behind what I teach, and when you plug into it, you’re going to start moving in a positive direction. In short, behaviors have to change, Laura. The more dramatically they change, the better results you get and the faster you fix things. But if you don’t plug into it — if he doesn’t plug into it — you guys are going to keep getting the same results you’ve been getting, which basically stink! ~Dave Remember: Administrative Professionals Week is April 20-25th. Angie's Wildflowers can help you honor the ever-important secretary or administrative professional in your life! 406-262-7652. 4-I

Tournament Time is here! For Sale: CRP Hay for sale in Show your team spirit and Brockton & Medicine Lake area, buy your team apparel here 3x4 Big Sqaure Bales, $80 a ton at Sew Sassy in Malta. Call OBO: Call 406-350-2915. 4-I and order. 406-654-1133. 3-II

All Seasons Home Center: Come on in with your measurements for your additions, pole barns, and your garage packages and see how we can accommodate you. 729 2nd Ave S., Glasgow. Call 406-228-8288. 4-I

WHEN YOU JUST WANT A WOOD FRAME BUILDING...

HOW ABOUT A DANDI!

See Us... We are now your new Dandi Wood Frame Buildings Dealer

DEALER For Sukup Grain Handling Equipment Sukup Grain Winter Specials Already Started For next Years Crop

AUTHORIZED DEALER For Chief Steel Buildings and Titan Grain Handling FARM & RANCH • RESIDENCE • COMMERCIAL

imsconstructionbuild.com

PO Box 517 • Columbia Falls, MT 59912 Email: imsbuild@centurytel.net

406-892-2415

Serving the Havre, MT & the Hiline area

406-265-3029

For Sale: Pickup boxes, 1993 GMC and 2011 GMC, SKS Foam Marker, B&W Turnover ball gooseneck hitch off of 2011 GMC, Call 406-355-4976. 4-I

For Sale: 2013 Husqvarna riding lawn mower. 22hp, 46 in. cut, stored and not used, nearly new. Will sell for $1,299. Sells new for $1,699. Call home 406761-3371 or cell 788-6017. 4-I

Fodder & Sons l

Hay Grinding

Serving North East Montanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Livestock Producers (Formerly Ferguson Hay Grinding)

(406) 781-1197 Parker Heser

Steve Vinnedge

Email: fodderandsons.net

AG INTEREST SERIES: MARKETS Spectrum Commodities Louise Gartner 800-888-9843

S p e c t r u m

C o m m o d i t i e s

P u t t i n g T h e P o w e r o f I n f o r m a t i o n I n Yo u r H a n d s

Change from Last Week 0.10 0.03 0.08 0.20 0.14 3.70 0.41 5.15 2.95 -0.21 4.55 -0.0499 0.0357 -0.18 1.46 46.70 -1.59 0.0100 0.0219 -420

Wheat markets moved slightly higher on concerns of drying conditions in the southern plains as wheat breaks dormancy and water demands pick up. For the week, crop conditions improved in Texas and Oklahoma but saw a decline in Kansas, the largest hard red winter wheat producing state. Corn prices pushed higher as the market gears up for the March 31 plantings report that is expected to show a decline in acres this year. In addition, the planting pace so far in the south has been delayed due to cool and wet weather. Soybeans were also higher as demand continues strong for US beans despite a steady harvest pace in South America where yields are turning out to be higher than expected. The upcoming acreage report is expected to show a large increase in soybean plantings. The cattle complex continued to move higher on strong demand for both beef and grass calves. Cash auctions around the country are heating up with better grazing conditions supporting demand for lightweight calves. With herd expansion underway, calf numbers are extremely tight and competition from the feedlots keeps a strong bid under the market. As spring weather finally warms Wheat markets moved slightly higherwe on concerns drying conditions as wheat up across much of the country, see beefofdemand perking in upthe assouthern well forplains outdoor grilling – an important breaks dormancy andperiod water demands pick up. For the week, crop conditions improved in Texas and seasonal demand for the beef complex. but saw declinehad in Kansas, the largest hard red winter wheat producing Corn pricesafter hovering at 12 Oklahoma The USadollar a significant correction, finally getting somestate. profit taking pushedhighs higherfor as the market gears up for the supported March 31 plantings report is expected a decline in in dollars, like year weeks. The weakness many of the that markets that to areshow denominated acres this addition, metals, the planting pace far in the been delayed to cool crude oilyear. andInprecious both ofsowhich hadsouth seenhasheavy sellingdue over the and lastwet few months. The Dow weather. Soybeans alsoof higher as taking demandas continues stronginvestors for US beans despite amore steadyconservative harvest pace after the FED was weaker on awere round profit well, with becoming in South America where yields are turning out to be higher than expected. The upcoming acreage report is suggested interest rates would stay low for at least the near future. expected to show a large increase in soybean plantings. March 26, 2015 Kansas City Wheat Minneapolis Wheat Chicago Wheat Corn Soybeans Soybean Meal Soybean Oil Live Cattle Feeder Cattle Sugar Crude Oil Heating Oil Unleaded Gas Natural Gas Silver Gold US $ Canadian $ Euro Dow Jones

This Week 5.63 5.81 5.19 3.95 9.79 324.5 31.04 161.72 217.25 12.52 49.21 1.7226 1.8348 2.74 17 1198.00 97.19 0.798 1.0972 17649

The cattleSale: complex continued to move higher on strong demand for both beef and grass calves. Cash For INDIAN auctions around the country are heating up with better grazing conditions supporting demand for BLANKETS & ARTWORK lightweight calves. With herd expansion underway, calf numbers are extremely tight and competition from Sweetgrass Sage bid ~ under Fursthe market. As spring weather finally warms up across much of the the feedlots keeps~ a strong country, we see beef~demandSaddles perking up as well for outdoor grilling – an important seasonal demand period Buckskin for the beef complex. USA Old Timer Knives Knife/Scissor Sharpening, The US dollar had a significant correction, finally getting some profit taking after hovering at 12-year highs for weeks. The weakness supported many of the markets that are denominated in dollars, like crude oil and Custom Framing, precious metals, both of which had seen heavy selling over the last few months. The Dow was weaker on a Big Sky Images & Collectibles round of profit taking as well, with investors becoming more conservative after the FED suggested interest Havre Holiday Village rates would stay low for at least Mall the near future. ~~~~~(406)399-6522~~~~~ Louise Gartner 2-II:5-I Spectrum Commodities

Specializing in Farm & Ranch Equipment Auctions

800-888-9843

Guns, Guns, Guns! Huge variety to choose from. NEW Management, New attitude, New displays! Come in, get your Refund Check Cashed, and see what we've got! Leon’s Buy & Sell, 720 First St., West, Havre. (406) 265-3342. 4-I Prayer to St. Jude: Precious St. Jude, precious mother and Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and glorified throughout the world forever. Amen. Say 3x/day for 9 days, your prayer will be answered no matter how impossible. 1-II:7-I

Bull Sale: Nelson Ranch Bull Sale, April 30th at 1pm at Glasgow Stockyards. Call Floyd 406-263-5251 or Don 406-263-5261. 4-I

For Sale: Metcalfe barley, common. No sprout, germ, or water damage. Also, common Lavina hay barley seed. 406-680-7333. 3-II

408 W. Main • Lewistown • 406-538-5125

www.ShobeAuction.com

***Senior Center Menus*** APRIL 2015 LITTLE ROCKIES RETIREMENT CENTER (HARLEM) Across from Albertsons Served Monday - Saturday at 12 noon

1 (Easter Meal) Ham, Baked Potatoes, Green Beans, Jello Salad, Buns, Bread Pudding 2 Pigs in a Blanket, Calico Beans, Fried Potatoes, Fruit Salad, Assorted Desserts 3 Turkey Pot Pie, Beets, Garlic Bread, Tossed Salad, Assorted Desserts 4 Pork Ribs, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Pasta Salad, Buns Corn, Rice Krispie Bars 6 Spaghetti, Green Salad, Corn, Garlic Toast, Assorted Desserts 7 Southwest Corn & Green Chili Bisque Soup, Ground Pork Salad Sandwich, Taco Salad, Assorted Desserts 8 Sloppy Joes, Tater Tots, Carrot-Raisin Salad, Frozen Peas, Cookies & Ice Cream 9 Cheesy Cornbread Casserole, Fruit Salad, Bread Sticks, Creamed Peas, Assorted Desserts 10 Breakfast Casserole, Fruit Salad, Bacon, Hashbrowns, Assorted Desserts 11 Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Carrots, Cole Slaw, Buns, Cake

Hickel Water Well Drilling: Free Estimates, Wells Drilled & Cleaned, Pump Sales & Service. Call 406-383-4363 (h) or 390-6254 (c). 4-I

For Sale: Funk Angus Ranch has for sale Private Treaty yearling Angus bulls. Call Gary or Roxann, 406-392-5777. 4-I

Red & Black Simmental & Sim/Angus

Bull Sale April 30 • Glasgow Stockyards Lunch at noon • Sale starts at 1 p.m.

40 Head Solid • 40 Head Solid Red 50 Black Head Black 15 Head Solid Red Composite

yeARlINg BullS Thick – Meaty – Moderate Framed – Easy Calving A. I. Sires Represented Black Angus – Foremost, New Era Red Angus – Evolution, Pie Gridmaster, Total Package Black Simmental – Frontier, Protege, Upgrade Red Simmental – Beef King, Beef Maker, Prime Beef, Rushmore Black Stabilizer – Porterhouse, Trinity, Yosemite This herd has produced the top rate-of-gain steer 6 of the last 7 years at the NE Montana Fair.

“Breeding Simmentals since 1969”

Nelson Ranch

Don Nelson

(406) 367-5261 • cell 263-5261 188 Nelson Rd. • Glasgow, MT 59230

Floyd Nelson, Jr.

(406) 228-2024 • cell 263-5251 PO Box 254 • Glasgow, MT 59230

23 Hamburgers, Onion Rings, Potato Salad, Relish Tray, Assorted Desserts 24 Shrimp, Rice Pilaf, Corn, Pasta Salad, Assorted Desserts 25 Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Harvard Beets, Buns, Fruit Salad, Cool Pistachio Dessert 27 Chili Dogs, Potato Pancakes, Cucumber Salad, Green Beans, Assorted Desserts 28 Potato & Ham Soup, Ham & Cheese Sandwiches, Coleslaw, Assorted Desserts 29 Salmon Steaks, French Fries, Relish Trays, Crunchy Pea Salad, Buns, Cinnamon Rolls 30 Hot Roast Beef Sandwiches, Fried Potatoes, Carrots, Applesauce, Assorted Desserts RUDYARD-GILDFORD AREA *Rudyard Senior Center Served Monday thru Friday at 11:30am *Gildford Community Church Served Monday/Wednesday/Friday

1 Turkey Dinner 2 Goulash, Cilantro Lime Cucumber Salad 3 Vegetable Soup, Tuna Sandwich, Deviled Eggs

13 Enchiladas, Cottage Cheese with Fruit, Tortilla Chips, Spanish Rice, Assorted Desserts 6 Pancakes, Sausage 14 Minestrone Soup, Toasted Cheese Sandwich, 7 Salmon Patties, Augratin potatoes 8 Baked potato Bar Pasta Salad, Assorted Desserts 9 Salad Bar 15 Turkey Roast Roll, Relish Tray, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Buns, Mixed 10 Baked chicken, Potato Salad Veggies, Pumpkin Dessert 16 BLTs, Potato Chips, Applesauce, Assorted 13 Chili, Cornbread 14 Baked Chicken, Ziti Desserts 15 Taco Salad 17 Cook’s Choice, Assorted Desserts 16 Sweet & Sour Pork 18 Pork Chops, Jello Salad, Seasoned Rice, 17 Turkey Rice Soup, Roll Buns, Peas and Carrots, Layered Banana Pudding Squares 20 Ham & Cheese Quiche, Blueberry Muffin 19 COMMUNITY MEAL: Meatballs on Mashed 21 Egg Salad Sandwich, Beagle Chips, Fruit 22 Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Potatoes, Tossed Lettuce Salad, 23 Turkey Gravy, Mashed Potatoes Broccoli & Cauliflower with Cheese 24 Spaghetti, Cheese Bread Sauce, Buns, Napoleon Cake 20 Tuna Casserole, Lettuce Salad, Frozen Peas, 27 Meatballs & Gravy over rice 28 Grilled Cheese, Tomato Soup Buns, Assorted Desserts 29 Baked French Toast 21 Corn Chowder, Bean Salad, Tuna Salad 30 Salmon Broccoli Casserole Sandwich, Assorted Desserts -- Happy Birthday April! 22 Beef Stroganoff on Noodles, Waldorf Salad, Corn, Buns, Apple Pie

Find a Lid That's All Your Style: See fivehead's in Havre for unlimited options. Get just the hat you want for yourself, family, or business. Buy just one or a thousand! Online ordering available www.FiveHeads. co or call 406-262-7929. 3-II

For Sale: Bred cows, Bred heifers and pairs. Thompson Cattle Co. 406-654-4278. 3-II Massage Special: Now thru the end of April: 1 hr massage, just $40! MOVING SOON! Same location until Apr 15! Watch for Grand Opening Soon! Inner Light Massage, 109 W. First St., Havre. Call 406-399-3735 for an appt and new location! 3-II For Sale: Delta Yellow Peas for seed. Cleaned and ready. Call 406-379-2387. 3-II Equipment For Sale: Chevy C65 Grain Truck, Case 8500 Air Drill, 96' Kenworth W900L, 3000+ ft of 10" pipe, New Holland 8770 Genesis MFWD Tractor, Ford 7740 MFWD Tractor. Call for more info 357-2769. 4-I

Selling 160 Yearling Angus Bulls Bear Paw Livestock, Chinook, Montana

Pre-Sale Social

Sale Date

April 8, 5-8 p.m.

April 9, 1 p.m.

Sponsored by Accelerated Genetics

Lunch at noon.

Contact Information: KelMcC Angus Kelly McCracken 406-379-2373(h) 406-262-2347(c)

Peterson Grain & Cattle Kim Peterson, Andee Peterson 406-394-2236(h) 406-945-0544(c) Andee - 406-945-2717(c)

Top Notch Angus Marv & Pa�y Cross 406-357-3534(h) 406-262-3127(c)

Whistling Winds Angus Dave & Ka�e Sa�oriva 406-397-3386(h) 406-390-1471(c)

Money Talks

Complements of Greg Dugdale Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Havre, Montana

REACHING RETIREMENT: NOW WHAT?

You’ve worked hard your whole life anticipating the day you could finally retire. Well, that day has arrived! But with it comes the realization that you’ll need to carefully manage your assets so that your retirement savings will last. Review your portfolio regularly Traditional wisdom holds that retirees should value the safety of their principal above all else. For this reason, some people shift their investment portfolio to fixed-income investments, such as bonds and money market accounts, as they approach retirement. The problem with this approach is that you’ll effectively lose purchasing power if the return on your investments doesn’t keep up with inflation. While generally it makes sense for your portfolio to become progressively more conservative as you grow older, it may be wise to consider maintaining at least a portion of your portfolio in growth investments. Spend wisely Don’t assume that you’ll be able to live on the earnings generated by your investment portfolio and retirement accounts for the rest of your life. At some point, you’ll probably have to start drawing on the principal. But you’ll want to be careful not to spend too much too soon. This can be a great temptation, particularly early in retirement. A good guideline is to make sure your annual withdrawal rate isn’t greater than 4% to 6% of your portfolio. (The appropriate percentage for you will depend on a number of factors, including the length of your payout period and your portfolio’s asset allocation.) Remember that if you whittle away your principal too quickly, you may not be able to earn enough on the remaining principal to carry you through the later years. Understand your retirement plan distribution options Most pension plans pay benefits in the form of an annuity. If you’re married you generally must choose between a higher retirement benefit paid over your lifetime, or a smaller benefit that continues to your spouse after your death. A financial professional can help you with this difficult, but important, decision. Other employer retirement plans like 401(k)s typically don’t pay benefits as annuities; the distribution (and investment) options available to you may be limited. This may be important because if you’re trying to stretch your savings, you’ll want to withdraw money from your retirement accounts as slowly as possible. Doing so will conserve the principal balance, and will also give those funds the chance to continue growing tax deferred during your retirement years. Consider whether it makes sense to roll your employer retirement account into a traditional IRA, which typically has very flexible withdrawal options. 1If you decide to work for another employer, you might also be able to transfer assets you’ve accumulated to your new employer’s plan, if the new employer offers a retirement plan and allows a rollover. Plan for required distributions Keep in mind that you must generally begin taking minimum distributions from employer retirement plans and traditional IRAs when you reach age 70½, whether you need them or not. Plan to spend these dollars first in retirement. If you own a Roth IRA, you aren’t required to take any distributions during your lifetime. Your funds can continue to grow tax deferred, and qualified distributions will be tax free.2 Because of these unique tax benefits, it generally makes sense to withdraw funds from a Roth IRA last. Know your Social Security options You’ll need to decide when to start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits. At normal retirement age (which varies from 66 to 67, depending on the year you were born), you can receive your

full Social Security retirement benefit. You can elect to receive your Social Security retirement benefit as early as age 62, but if you begin receiving your benefit before your normal retirement age, your benefit will be reduced. Conversely, if you delay retirement, you can increase your Social Security retirement benefit. Consider phasing For many workers, the sudden change from employee to retiree can be a difficult one. Some employers, especially those in the public sector, have begun offering “phased retirement” plans to address this problem. Phased retirement generally allows you to continue working on a part-time basis--you benefit by having a smoother transition from full-time employment to retirement, and your employer benefits by retaining the services of a talented employee. Some phased retirement plans even allow you to access all or part of your pension benefit while you work part time. Of course, to the extent you are able to support yourself with a salary, the less you’ll need to dip into your retirement savings. Another advantage of delaying full retirement is that you can continue to build tax-deferred funds in your IRA or employer-sponsored retirement plan. Keep in mind, though, that you may be required to start taking minimum distributions from your qualified retirement plan or traditional IRA once you reach age 70½, if you want to avoid substantial penalties. If you do continue to work, make sure you understand the consequences. Some pension plans base your retirement benefit on your final average pay. If you work part time, your pension benefit may be reduced because your pay has gone down. Remember, too, that income from a job may affect the amount of Social Security retirement benefit you receive if you are under normal retirement age. But once you reach normal retirement age, you can earn as much as you want without affecting your Social Security retirement benefit. Facing a shortfall What if you’re nearing retirement and you determine that your retirement income may not be adequate to meet your retirement expenses? If retirement is just around the corner, you may need to drastically change your spending and saving habits. Saving even a little money can really add up if you do it consistently and earn a reasonable rate of return. And by making permanent changes to your spending habits, you’ll find that your savings will last even longer. Start by preparing a budget to see where your money is going. Here are some suggested ways to stretch your retirement dollars: • Refinance your home mortgage if interest rates have dropped since you obtained your loan, or reduce your housing expenses by moving to a less expensive home or apartment. • Access the equity in your home. Use the proceeds from a second mortgage or home equity line of credit to pay off higher-interest-rate debts, or consider a reverse mortgage. • Sell one of your cars if you have two. When your remaining car needs to be replaced, consider buying a used one. • Transfer credit card balances from higher-interest cards to a low- or no-interest card, and then cancel the old accounts. • Ask about insurance discounts and review your insurance needs (e.g., your need for life insurance may have lessened). • Reduce discretionary expenses such as lunches and dinners out. By planning carefully, investing wisely, and spending thoughtfully, you can increase the likelihood that your retirement will be a financially comfortable one.

This information, developed by an independent third party, has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. This information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Investments mentioned may not be suitable for all investors. The material is general in nature. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. does not provide advice on tax, legal or mortgage issues. These matters should be discussed with the appropriate professional. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2012.

For Sale: Used oilfield pipe, rods, cable & guard rail. New HDPE pipe. Engineered bridges for pivots, vehicles, walking & ATV. Clips & post caps. Toll free- 866-683-7299 or 406-453-7299 Big Sky Pipe And Supply, Great Falls. Call Today and Ask for our free catalog. Visit Us Online http://bigskypipeandsupply. com/html/ 1-II:7-I For Sale: Q’s Motel at Big Sandy, 8 rooms, Plus Home built in 1982, 5 bed/3 bath, finished basement, LG DBL garage, Nice Income, Great for hunting season! $325,000. Call Fort Benton Realty LLP 406-622-3803.. 4-I Looking for a great business? For sale landscaping and sprinkler system company w/100+ contacts spring, summer and fall. Equipment included20’ enclosed trailer, 5185 Bobcat, dump trailer w/6,000 lb. axels, Ditch Witch pipe puller w/ a 41hp diesel engine. Asking $65,000 (153BS6) No real estate/Business only. 406-654-2273. www. MissouriRiverRealty.com 3-II

For Sale: Four vacant lots located in Malta on the corner of 9th Street East and Central Avenue. The lots have city water & sewer on the property as well as power and natural gas. This is an excellent location for your new construction. Asking $32,000 (108DH) 406-654-2273 www. MissouriRiverRealty.com. 4-I

Wed. NISSEN ANGUS, INC. Apr. 1 Blaine County Fairgrounds, Chinook 1pm Jeff & Christie Nissen 406-357-2643 info@nissenangus.com; nissenangus.com Wed. BOWLES J5 REDS Apr. 2 Glasgow Stockyards, Glasgow, MT 1pm Jim 406-539-3100, Brady 406-539-2102 bbowlesj5@yahoo.com Wed. Apr. 6 1pm

R. MATH FARMS ANGUS SALE At the ranch, Whitewater, MT Bob Math 406-674-5562

Mon. Apr. 9 1pm

NORTHERN PREMIER ANGUS SALE Bear Paw Livestock, Chinook www.montanasnorthernpremier.com Kelly McCracken, 406-262-2347 or Kim Peterson, 406-945-0544

Wed. Apr. 15 1pm

MILK RIVER ANGUS Lunch at noon Bear Paw Livestock, Chinook Contact: Clayton, 406-945-0850

Thurs. NELSON RANCH BULL SALE Apr. 30 Glasgow Stockyards 1pm Contact: Floyd, 406-263-5251 or Don, 406-263-5261 Private BEERY’S LAND AND LIVESTOCK Treaty Vida, MT Matt 406-979-5720 Joanne 406-773-5710 Private Treaty

FUNK ANGUS RANCH Yearling Angus Bulls 18mi NE, Frazer, MT Gary & Roxann Funk 406-392-5777

Private J-E RANCH Polled/Horned Herefords Treaty Plentywood, MT Arvid Eggen 406-895-2657 or Jay-De Eggen 406-671-7149 jbare@nemont.net Private BAR STAR CATTLE Treaty Polled and Horned Herefords Chad and Stephanie Murnin 406-739-4303, 406-399-7811 barstarcattle@hotmail.com Dec. 2015 SHIPWHEEL CATTLE 2 Year Old Black Angus Bulls Chinook, MT 406-357-2492 www.ShipwheelCattle.com Feb. 2016 WITTKOPP ANGUS at Glasgow Stockyards Glasgow, MT Home 406-485-3552, Cell 974-3552 Feb. 2016 BULLS OF THE BIG SKY Billings Livestock Commision Billings, MT Mar. 2016 CLEAR CREEK ANGUS BULL SALE Bear Paw Livestock, Chinook 406-395-4962 www.clearcreekangus.com Apr. 2016 49th PARALLEL BLACK ANGUS BULL SALE Mankota Stockmen’s Weigh Co. Mankota, Sask. 306-625-3676

The next issue wil be distributed Wed., Apr. 15, 2015. Ad DEADLINE is Wed., Apr. 8th at 9am.

April 1, 2015........................................................................... Volume XIII Issue 7............................................................................. Tricia’s Trader 14 2000 Country Club Road * Turner, MT 59542 Phone 800-756-1817 Email: office@triciastrader.com www.TriciasTrader.com FAX: 888-796-8498

“TRICIA’S TRADER” IS PUBLISHED BY:

LLC

Advertisers’ Advocates

Contact one of our to place an advertisement, or contact Kimmel Kreations directly at the address above.

Visit www.TriciasTrader.com to place your ad today. EASTERN REGION: Jamie Jones is happy to help you if you live in one of these counties: BLAINE VALLEY PHILLIPS DANIELS ROOSEVELT SHERIDAN RICHLAND Jamie Jones 800-756-1817 x104 406-390-6386 (c) Email: east@triciastrader.com

CENTRAL HI-LINE REGION: We welcome Patti Solomon to the Tricia's Trader team! Patti looks forward to serving you if you live in

Owner, Tricia Kimmel 800-756-1817 x101 anytime or 406-379-2377 from 8:30-3:30pm

WESTERN REGION, SOCIAL MEDIA & ONLINE AD OPTIMIZATION:

Amy would love to help you if you live ANYWHERE else!

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Tricia’s Trader SERVES THESE MONTANA TOWNS: Town: Joplin Inverness Rudyard Hingham Gildford Kremlin Fort Benton Loma Big Sandy Havre Chinook Harlem Fort Belknap Turner Hogeland Zortman Roy Dodson Malta Loring

Prefix: 292 292 355 397 376 372 621, 622 739 378 262, 265, 407, 808, 945, 969, 390, 394, 395, 398, 399 357 353 353 379 379 673 464 383 301, 654, 658, 680 674

Whitewater Saco Hinsdale Glasgow

674 527 364, 648 228, 230, 263, 367, 831 Nashua 746 Fort Peck 526 Wolf Point 392, 525, 650, 653, 915 Opheim 762 Plentywood 765 Circle 485, 974 Jordan 557, 977 Grass Range 428, 928 Chester 759 Geraldine 737 Belt 277 Great Falls 205, 216, 217, 231, 268, 403, 452, 453, 454, 455, 564, 590, 715, 727, 731, 750, 760, 761, 770, 771, 781, 788, 791, 799, 836, 866, 868, 870, 899, 923, 952, 964, 965, 997 ALL MONTANA AREA CODES ARE (406)

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The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertising herein, and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertisers and not the publisher. Every effort is made by Kimmel Kreations, LLC to never knowingly accept advertising that is deceptive or misleading. We reserve the right to edit, refuse, reject or cancel any advertisement at any time. The publisher is not liable to any advertiser herein for any misprints in advertising not the fault of the publisher, and in such an event, the limit of the publisher’s liability shall be the amount of the publisher’s charge for such advertising. All advertising for the sale, rental, financing, insurance and appraisal of residential real estate are subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, family status, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Kimmel Kreations, LLC will not knowingly accept any advertising which is in violation of this law. All advertising layouts and designs and portions of the same that are produced by Kimmel Kreations, LLC are the sole property of Kimmel Kreations, LLC and may not be reproduced in any form unless written authorization is obtained from the publisher. “Tricia’s Trader” is published bi-monthly by Kimmel Kreations, LLC, 2000 Country Club Road, Turner, MT 59542. Copies of “Tricia’s Trader” are distributed free to the reader in public locations, and by subscription service for a minimal charge to those requesting mailing service. All material copyright 2003-2015. NOTICE: The opinions and ideas expressed in articles and advertisements in ‘Tricia’s Trader’ are those of the author or advertiser and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher, Kimmel Kreations, LLC. Material in articles or advertisements should be considered general reading and should not be construed as professional advice. All information should be carefully researched by the reader, and the reader assumes all responsibilty and risks associated with any action taken based upon information in an advertisement or article.

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The cost for a classified advertisement, up to 8 lines is $10 per 2 issues, and $1 per line over 8 lines for a MAXIMUM ad length of 13 lines. Add $5 per 2 issues for a box outline, and/or $5 per 2 issues for bold text other than the heading. The following specials apply for multiple classified ads: Place 3 classifieds or more in the same issue and get a 15% discount. Or run the same classified ad in every issue for a year for $100 (includes 4 issues free), or for six months for $50 (includes 2 issues free). Pictures/ graphics may only be included in display ads. LIMITED FREE CLASSIFIEDS: ONE FREE UN-ENHANCED CLASSIFIED AD PER ISSUE per household for Items for Sale, Wanted, Garage Sales, Help Wanted etc. Will run for two issues. Business listings, auto dealers, services provided, land/housing, and all other categories may still advertise for the low rate of $10 per 2 issues. To place a classified, just fill out the form on this page and mail it to: Tricia’s Trader, 2000 Country Club Road, Turner, MT 59542. Or complete the form online at www. triciastrader.com. Please contact your Advertiser’s Advocate listed above to inquire about display advertising or to request a current rate chart. Display ads can be any dimension in 2” wide increments up to 10” wide by 10” high (full page). Display ad design is available for $5 per full design or edit. Ask your Ad Rep about design fee waivers, specials, and package rates. Your Advocate can work with you to develop a marketing strategy that’s effective, and determine the size and design that you need to get the most out of your advertising budget for your unique situation.

Call YOUR Ad Rep today!

Hay For Sale: 700 tons 3x4 square bales 35% alfalfa $100/ ton. Also avail. 500 tons good clean straight grass hay 3x4 square bales $105/Ton. Also avail. straight 2nd cutting alfalfa 3x4 square bales $140/ton. 150 tons 2013 50% alfalfa mix in round bales $90/ton. Trucking available. 406-670-6551. 2-I:4-II

Bridal Shower At a bridal shower, each guest was asked to introduce herself and tell everyone how she met Amber, the bride-to-be. “I met Amber while dating her brother Ron,” the first young woman said. The second person gave the same answer. The third said she was Ron’s current girlfriend. An older woman was next. “It’s nice to meet all of you ladies,” she announced with a grin. “But I think I’d really rather meet Ron.”

For Sale: Case Loader W14, 4x4, Runs good, block heater, EASY TO HAUL @ 14,000lbs! $10,000. F-350 Dually pickup box, great cond., Fits 99-07 models, $750. Call 406-390-0871 $10,000. 3-II For Sale: Two steel buildings, 40x50 and 60x80. Leave name and phone number. (406)222-5535. 10-II:4-II

7 Annual th

A Program Built On Traditional Values

Production Sale

Lunch starting at noon

1:00 p.m. • Monday

APRIL 6, 2015

Inside the barn at the farm in Whitewater, MT

Selling

Plus

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Registered Yearling Angus Bulls

Two Year Old Bulls

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These bulls represent the top 1/3 of our bull calf crop. They have the blend of length, muscle, maternal and carcass traits that we have built our program around.

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All Bulls are performance and fertility tested.

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View catalog & video at www.rmathfarms.com www.billpelton.com

All Sale Bulls EPDs are enhanced using Zoetis Pfizer 50K DNA Genomics to provide you with more accurate EPDs SAV Mountain Time 1695 APEX Mountain Track 7801 HA Bismark 1911 • BDAR Progress Y080 APEX Black Leather 718 • Peak Dot Bold 617Y Peak Dot Eliminator 756Z

11096 North Forks Road • Whitewater, Montana 59544 • rmathfarms@yahoo.com Bob Math: 406-674-5562 • Cody Math: 406-674-5489 • Kevin Math: 406-390-6633

Tricias Trader.indd 1

2/24/15 9:01 AM

For Sale: Nitrogen Tank MVESC 33/26. Capacity: (6) 11" canisters. Like new. Only used once/year to hold nitrogen. $1,000. Call 406-357-3572. 3-II

Try R-New Trading Post Check cashing services! Tax returns welcome! Available for verifiable checks only. Open Mon-Sat. 9AM-630PM. 642 1st ST, Havre. 265-5057. 4-I

April 1, 2015........................................................................... Volume XIII Issue 7.............................................................................Tricia’s Trader 16 In the land of the free, home of the brave, lies the Treasure State in all its grandeur, and unless you’re a newcomer here you’ve heard and felt the heartbeat of Montana’s economy, appearing in the form of Agriculture. Tricia’s Trader celebrates all that is Montana Ag by acknowledging the agencies, organizations and people who serve as the voice for their industry--not always unified, but absolutely passionate and devoted to their respective purposes. Since it’s impossible for the Ag Industry not to intertwine with utilization of this state’s natural resources, you’ll see features that discuss those industries as well. If you’ve ever wondered what all these groups do, what they stand for, who they support and why, you will never be handed a better opportunity to learn than in Tricia’s Trader over the course of 2015 and 2016, where we examine each faction in detail.

AG SERIES:

R-CALF USA - The Battle Rages On This edition of the Ag Series is brought to you by the advertisers on these two pages. Be sure to let them know you saw them here!

by Jeanie Siggaard

The Ranchers-Cattleman Action Legal Fund, United Stockgrowers of America (R-CALF USA) and its members are in the midst of a war. On the website, www.rcalfusa.com, the R-CALF slogan reads: “Fighting for the U.S. Independent Cattle Producer”, with the mission statement being to represent the U.S. cattle industry in trade and marketing issues to ensure the continued profitability and viability of independent U.S. cattle producers. It is a war R-CALF members are determined to win. According to the U.S.D.A. report on Farms, Land in Farms, and Livestock Operations, 187,000 U.S. farms and ranches have been lost since 1996. “The number is probably higher since the U.S.D.A. ceased updating this report in 2012, citing budget cuts,” says Bill Bullard, C.E.O. of R-CALF. He believes pressure is coming from elsewhere. When the meat-packing lobby, backed by several high-powered organizations including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), filed a lawsuit against Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) in 2013, R-CALF, in conjunction with Food & Water Watch, the Western Organization of Resource Councils (WORC), and the South Dakota Stockgrowers Association took up the challenge. In February 2015, the lawsuit was dropped. “I like to think they dropped the lawsuit because of our efforts,” says Bullard. The U.S. consumer directly benefits from those efforts. By defending COOL, R-CALF not only protects the livelihoods of independent cattle producers, but also puts the power to make informed purchasing decisions in the hands of consumers. People want to know where the food they eat comes from and COOL plays an important part in making that knowledge available to the public. Although the World Trade Organization (WTO) ruled against the U.S. regarding COOL in October 2014, the decision had no bearing on the lawsuit filed by the meatpacking industry. “The WTO is not a part of our legal system” says Bullard, “although they did try and use the ruling to their advantage.” The battle over COOL is just that, a battle. While R-CALF and independent cattle producers, along with consumers, won this battle, Bullard knows the war is far from over. While he and fellow R-CALF members keep a close eye out, and indeed expect further challenges to COOL, they are being flanked by a more pervasive foe. Vertical integration is the politically correct term, and it has virtually swallowed up the chicken and hog industry in the U.S. “It is called the chickenization of the beef industry,” says Bullard. Chickenization refers to the system of management implemented in the 1950’s by Tyson Foods. Under this system, everything from the hatchery to the slaughterhouse, including the trucking company used to transport meat to marketing outlets, is owned by large, often multi-national corporations. Instead of directly selling their animals on the open market, independent ranchers are contracted to raise the animals for the corporation, thereby relegating themselves to the status of caretakers rather than owner/operators. They no longer own the animals and have no input in any part

of the marketing process, including pricing. Decisions and profits are handed over to the corporation leaving producers to shoulder the risks, including borrowing money for their operation. Even feed is frequently purchased from the same corporation. R-CALF does not want the cattle industry to follow in the footsteps of the chicken and pork industries. In 1993, 87% of hogs in the U.S. were sold by independent producers on the open market. Eight years later, 83% of the hogs were in the hands of meat packers, ownership having been relinquished by producers through contracting. Numbers are worse for independent poultry producers. Today, 90% of chickens in the U.S. are owned by corporations through contracting, leaving poultry farmers almost entirely out of the market. Bullard is looking forward to the R-CALF convention this year in Denver, Colorado on the 14th and 15th of August. “We will focus on efforts to establish a national trade strategy for the U.S. and figure out how to preserve the integrity of independent cattle producers.” There is good news for Montana in all of this. “We are a national organization. We don’t usually get involved in state legislature unless a member calls us to let us know of an issue in direct conflict with our mission. I haven’t had a call from anyone in Montana,” Bullard said, when asked if there was anything of concern to R-CALF in the 2015 Montana Legislative Session. A non-profit organization, R-CALF relies entirely on membership dues and donations to continue the fight against the consolidation of the beef industry. As stated on the website, its members believe, Our nation’s exemplary system of cattle production, which once provided consumers with the safest, most reliable, and most affordable beef supply produced under the best of conditions, is now seriously broken. Or as Bullard puts it, “The best beef in the world is produced here, and we want to keep it that way.”

April and May SPECIAL

at CHS Milk River all Payback Champion feeds are on sale

To sign up for your Free shirt!

7 Locations to Serve You Across the Hi-Line

Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA. Photo credit: Beth Schoeneberg/ www.CSCTTalkRadio.com

HOW TO REACH R-CALF: PO Box 30715 Billings, MT 59107 Phone: (406) 252-2516 Email: r-calfusa@r-calfusa.com Website: http://www.r-calfusa.com

Ramblings of a Conservative Cow Doctor by Krayton Kerns, DVM, former State Rep. HD 58

Point of No Return It is open burning season in Yellowstone County. A decade back, I dug a small pond to run my lawn and garden sprinklers, but he north half of the pond is so shallow it mostly raises cattails. The grandkids love kayaking around the pond, but because the weeds are a real fun killer, Sunday I decided to burn it all down. First, I fired up my lap-top and secured the government approved $8 permit, if for no other reason than it reminds me why I voted for smaller government at every opportunity during my tenure in Montana’s House. Someday, personal responsibility and self-reliance will replace regulation and entitlement, but not today. It was 11 o’clock in the morning, 50 degrees with light winds from the southwest; perfect burning conditions. To prepare for the worst, I strapped the weed-sprayer to my four-wheeler, and stretched out a couple garden hoses. Before firing up my weed burner, I stuck my head in the house to notify the trophy wife she might want to trade her flip-flops for footwear more appropriate to fighting wildfire. I am an incredibly thoughtful husband. She moaned, rolled her eyes and changed wardrobes. She may not know it, and may even deny it, but she is living the dream. I spent nearly an hour burning a buffer zone

on the downwind side before moving upwind where I discovered my irrigating boots were too short to let me wade through the muck to ignite my island of cattails. Taking a calculated risk, I dragged the grandkid’s kayak from behind the tack shed, tossed in the propane tank and burner, and hopped in before shoving off into open waters. Rather than paddle, I spent most my time chopping clumsily through the weeds nearly flipping my watercraft several times. Desiring to cut my losses in case I did go for a swim, I tossed both my cellphones to the trophy wife standing on the bank. She did more moaning and eye rolling. Finally in position upwind, I fired up the burner and stuck the hot end into a clump of dried, overgrown cattails just as a helpful gust of wind swept the pond. Within an instant, a decade’s worth of carbon disguised as cattails exploded into the atmosphere, thus warming the planet and thawing all the poor city-kids frozen from the record breaking winter on the east coast. The heat was blistering, so I sprinted across the water towing my kayak. The flames were spectacular, but short lived, and in less than a minute the show was over. Regardless my fire suppression resources and those of Yellowstone County, when I ignited the upwind side I crossed the

For Sale: Attachments for a John Deere 300 C series garden tractor: 48in mower; snow plow; snow blower; cozy cab. Call for more info 390-4802 or 654-2117. Leave a message. 4-I

point of no return and the cattails were history. This brings me to my point. Subtle wealth redistribution either from establishment Republicans to the business community or Democrats through social programs to the dependent class are small infringements on our freedom and are analogous to my burning a buffer zone around the cattails. The big fire and point of no return is yet to come, but when you finally realize all the programs you supported are now shackles locked around your ankles, resistance will be futile. Recent headlines reveal plans for bureaucrats to begin weighing children attending government funded daycare programs. Should your progeny or grand progeny be too fat or skinny to fit the government template of normal you can expect corrective measures varying from nutrition counseling to your child’s placement into government approved fitness foster homes. Struggling then would be senseless because America has passed the point of no return. Did you support Obamacare or Medicaid Expansion, passage of the CSKT Water Compact, or government pre-K education? If you did then you are the problem; you lit the fire which consumed your liberty.

BUY-SELL-TRADE Vintage Collectibles: Kokomo Joe's Trading Post, Chester Montana. Just In:The Tao of Teas. Stop by for a tea tasting!!! 406-759-6472. 4-I

Hay Hauling: $5/mile square bales, $6/mile round bales. Doubles hauling 44 round bales or 57 3x4 squares/load. MT and WY. Call 406-670-6551. 4-I

LETTER TO EDITOR Thanks, Tricias’s Trader, for providing a place for airing different views. And thank you, Ken Overcast, for challenging my statements. We’d all be better off if more people questioned the validity of their information. There is insufficient space to fully substantiate my claims of disinformation against Dr. Kerns, so briefly: I did not call Krayton Kerns a liar. I believe Dr. Kerns holds many mistaken beliefs, and he publicly states these mistaken beliefs but that is not the same as lying. Also, I am a progressive/liberal and Dr. Kerns insults me, somewhere, in nearly every article he writes. But constraint was my message, which I did employ, by cooling the original title and dropping an inflammatory first sentence. But let’s address a broader subject: Montana’s congress is dominated by Republicans; 20 of the 25 “right to work” states are under Republican control (three are split, one is Democratic and Nebraska doesn’t report) and “Right to work” laws (RTW) are on our state legislators’ agenda, so RTW laws seem a good place to illustrate how disinformation affects working people. Many conservative organizations promote RTW legislation, like The National Right to Work Committee which combats unions “through an aggressive program designed to mobilize public opposition [and] enlist public support for Right to

Work legislation.” In addition, conservative media pundits frequently malign unions and endorse RTW. But do people in RTW states really have more jobs? And do they earn more or less? Averaging unemployment rates in RTW and nonRTW states I found average unemployment rates lower in RTW states, by about one quarter of one percent (5.18% vs. 5.46%). It is hard to compare compensation on myriad occupations across 50 states but minimum wages in each state are readily available. I found average minimum wages in RTW states about 10% lower than in non-RTW states. In other words, “right to work” laws barely moved the needle on a minimum wage worker’s chances for employment. However, if this worker has a full time job, voted Republican in state elections and got “right to work” laws, they took an active role in setting their own salaries about $1,500 a year lower than what they would have been otherwise. GDP has been growing for a long time but workers’ wages have stagnated and employment has declined. Disinformation is a big reason why. (You can take a look at side by side comparisons and sources at my website: down home common sense.org (http://www. downhomecommonsense.org/#!blank/czoc) ~Alvah MacWilliam, Chinook, MT

Items For Sale: International Model M tractor, with D9 front axle, F10 Loader, 12 ft. hay sweep, grapple fork, square bale fork; 4 horse pony harness with collars and spreaders; 1 set studded parade harness; D6 with Hydraulic Caterpillar Dozer. Call in the a.m. 406-738-4404. 3-II

For Sale: 2012 Honda TRX 500FPM (power steering w/ manual shift), 4,125 miles, fuel injected, liquid cooled, selectable 2 whl. drive/4 whl. drive, run through shop. $5,250. Call 406278-7853. Ask for Kurt. 4-I ABS Global AI School: March 31st - April 2nd at the Milk River Pavilion. Contact Jeff Hould, 390-1116. 3-II

Stop In: Let Malta Tire Factory take care of your vehicle today. See us for brakes, alignments, tires, service jobs, and more. We carry a full line of tires from Hankook, Goodyear, Cooper, Nokian and more. If we don’t have what your looking for, we will be happy to order it. 406654-2120 open Mon- Fri 7:305:30. And Saturday 8-4. 4-I

UNITED COUNTRY –

SHOBE AUCTION & REALTY Lewistown, Montana

2015 SPRING AuctIoN cALENDAR TV Appliance Center Inventory Liquidation Auction - ON-LINE ONLY • ends 5:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, ApRIL 8TH

Complete liquidation of all remaining inventory, including Cell Phone/ Audio/TV Accessories, Appliance Parts, Shelving, Showcases & much much more! Online Auction Catalog will be available soon!

Jim & Kathleen Ott Ranch Retirement Auction - Ryegate, MT • 10:00 a.m. SATURDAY, MAY 2ND

Dick Bodine (Sheridan, WY) Antiques & Collectibles - Fairgrounds - Lewistown, MT • 10:00 a.m. FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MAY 8TH & 9TH

Frank & Dolores Noble Estate Ranch Equipment Auction - Grass Range, MT • 10:00 a.m. THURSDAY, MAY 21ST

THURSDAY, MAY 28TH

Fergus Country School Real Estate Auction - 30 miles NE of Lewistown on Hwy 191 or 7 miles W of Roy • 6:30 p.m. The old school house has been remodeled into a residence. This charming home, with a two car garage, sits on 2+ acres.

Judy Dixon & Duane Smith Ranch Equipment Auction - 15 miles SE of Lewistown, MT • 10:00 a.m. THURSDAY, JUNE 4TH

3rd Annual Montana Horse progress Days & Auction - Reuben Miller Farm, Moore, MT FRIDAY & SATURDAY, JUNE 5TH & 6TH

Tom Altenhofen Estate Antique Auction - Fairgrounds - Lewistown, MT • 10:00 a.m. SAtuRdAy, JuNe 27TH

View our website or call for brochures.

Office 406-538-5125

www.ShobeAuction.com

Jayson 406-366-5125 • Kyle 406-366-0472 • Nick 406-451-3899

For Sale: 3 dry female goats. Various ages but all over 2 years old. Various breeds. Get along well with other farmtype animals and LOVE to hang out with horses. Good weed eaters and keep fence rows trimmed! $20 each or $55 for all. Please call or text 406672-9145 and leave a message if needed! Hi-Line Area. 3-II Meat Processing: Windy Ridge Meats is Now Processing all types of meat. Call 406357-3366 or 390-4874. 3-II Now Hiring! Earn Base Wage, Commission, & Incentives. Flexible schedule, comprehensive benefit options, paid vacation, No CDL required. Apply at w w w. s c h w a n s j o b s . c o m . Call Bob 406-945-3047. 3-II

66 Ranch Red Angus Red Angus Bulls for sale

www.66ranch.com

Bim & Janas Strauser Havre, MT 406.394.3519 or 406.945.1839 Special Eyes Too (Special Effort si 104 x

All Your Eyes On Me si 92 x

Mr Eye Opener si 106)