




“In
They were courteous, friendly and detail oriented. But mostly, they over-delivered on the services I paid for - a ceramic coating on my Tahoe. I can’t believe how good it looks. All of my future car-detail needs will go to these








“In
They were courteous, friendly and detail oriented. But mostly, they over-delivered on the services I paid for - a ceramic coating on my Tahoe. I can’t believe how good it looks. All of my future car-detail needs will go to these
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets long term financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
I used to think about investment as a purely financial part of my life. However, my perspective regarding the idea of investment has shifted through life and experiences. I started to consider the idea of time and how precious it is. As something you can never get back I thought more about what I was investing my time in and how those relationships and experiences were enriching my life—and how my time was enriching the lives of those around me. Next, the thought of sustainability and the idea of quality over quantity began to intrigue me. How were my buying decisions affecting the world around me, and how could I make a positive impact with those decisions? For me focusing on supporting local businesses and increasing my ability to create a more sustainable life were initial steps I could take. These evolutions in thinking have created a space to think about and adjust my perspective and consider the whole self and how these seemingly small adjustments can have a big and lasting impact on daily life for me and those around me.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.
Cheers,Maggie
Hailey
Camille
Curating a design plan is more than just copying a Pinterest or Instagram photo. It involves real people, their lifestyle, their expectations and their point of view. Unique personalities are reflected by lifestyle choices; design can mirror that. Curation accounts for all the nuances of life to provide space for experiencing while expanding the opportunities for growth and change. Design is not static - it flows.
The Nature of Bozeman is also how I feel about its reflection through design and architecture. For whom are we designing? What do our clients want to experience in that space that we help them create?
Curated Design is about giving more that expected, surprising the senses, and exceeding expectations. It is a personal experience.
- Kris NunnRib & Chop House has introduced a new lunch menu aimed to attract a broad range of appetites by providing some lighter fare options as well as smaller portions of some of the most popular dinner items. From salads to seafood, chicken to steak, and handhelds to entrees, the new lineup offers something for everyone. Menu available daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.!
Treeline Coffee Roasters are offering free drip coffee on Tuesday's if you bring your own mug! And all sizes of drip are only $2 if you forget yours at home! Visit their N. Wallace and W. Main cafes, both open until 4 p.m. daily.
The beloved Storm Castle Cafe is now open five days a week with Wednesdays back on the schedule! Open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Be sure to check out their specials board and try their hot sauces.
There was a time in my life that I felt like Psyche in the myth of her lovership with Cupid. Like Psyche, I felt lost and in despair; overwhelmed by the enormity of the task before me: to have a successful, intimate relationship. “But how?” I desperately thought. My entire life was filled with failed relationships: my family of origin, friends, and boyfriends. Now, I was determined to make my marriage work.
Psyche, in order to claim her relationship, was once tasked with sifting a huge mound of wheat, poppy, and millet seeds into their own piles. Like Psyche, in order to have closely intimate relationships, we are all faced with our own piles that we must parse out. What is mine to take accountability for in this relationship? What is the other person’s stuff to own? What is ours together?
Relationships are the most important investment we will ever make in our lives. Without others to support us, we would literally die. We enter the world entirely helpless as infants. Our ability to survive relies on staying connected to our caregivers. We are neurobiologically wired to need relationships. We can pretend we don’t need anyone else, but if we look deeply at this belief, it is not true.
In fact, many studies have shown that humans who aren’t in a relationship with other humans fail to thrive and even die sooner than those who are. Gabor Mate’s book The Myth of Normal is a good reference for those interested in the science. Additionally, research shows that all addiction stems from disconnection. When we suffer disconnection from ourselves and others, we try to fill that hole with whatever distraction will make us feel better for even a few minutes. We all deeply desire connection, like it or not.
If that is true, why are relationships so hard? For those of us who find it difficult, it
is because we have been hurt in the past and recoil from others, or have never been taught the skills of healthy relating. For many of us, our family of origin didn’t model healthy relating. Worse yet, society perpetuates the myth we should be what others want from us, and abandon our own needs when the truth is, a healthy relationship balances our own needs with the needs of others. Without this balance, our relationships cannot be truly authentic, intimate, and fulfilling.
So how can we invest in healthy relationships? This is a lifelong journey where we must balance a core internal dilemma: I must be in care of myself, and I must be in care of others. Said another way, it is connection-to-self versus connection-to-others.
As an adult, I taught myself how to invest in my relationships and help them grow strong and healthy. I studied attachment theory and non-violent communication skills. I learned how to step off the “victim triangle” and take responsibility for balancing this core dilemma inside myself instead of asking others to do it for me. I learned how to repair a relationship after a rupture. I learned how to stop abandoning myself to gain acceptance from others. But mostly, I got help and support from others who had learned these skills and could show me the way.
Learning these skills isn’t something we can do alone. We have to heal in relationships with others. If your relational investment portfolio is struggling, I encourage you to get support–through books, classes, couples, or one-on-one counseling.
Julia Yanker is a Bozeman based creatrix, adventurer, and psycho-spiritual coach, specializing in the trauma resolution modality Somatic Experiencing®. You can connect with her for one-to-one or group coaching at JuliaYanker.com
HOW DUCKWORTH RESURRECTED THE LOST ART AND CRAFT OF 100% MONTANA-GROWN AND AMERICAN-MADE WOOL
ARTICLE BY KATIE THOMAS“Sheep are very nomadic, gregarious, and intelligent.”
Sitting on my desk is a black-and-white photograph of my parents, rock climbing in Austria in 1969. Despite the lack of color, it’s clear my young folks are sporting nearly all wool clothes – pants, plaid shirts, tall socks, a woolen cap on my dad. Some of these items made it into my childhood, and I’ll never forget the scratchy feel of that material. I pitied mom and dad for having to wear such uncomfortable clothes, and I still marvel today that people ever recreated in such discomfort.
We need itch no more! Meet the Duckworth Company, a local wool business that creates Merino wool products with Montana-grown wool, made entirely in the United States. The wool is produced on a 25,000-acre ranch outside Dillon, Montana, owned and operated by the Helle family, co-founders and fourth-generation
sheep ranchers. Involved in every step of the process from raising and shearing the sheep to overseeing the manufacturing of the clothing, head rancher John Helle has created a wool I wish my parents had: soft, but still robust and breathable – perfect for recreating, ranching, and generally being outdoors in Montana.
How did this all come about? An avid back-country skier and wearer of wool, Helle was riding up the one chairlift available at Maverick Mountain one 2013 day with his friend Bernie, who has a background in apparel. What began as a lamenting session that there were no superior U.S. made wool base layers ended with the concept for Duckworth, and the rest is history. They named the company after a crotchety mill worker, an Englishman named Mr. Duckworth.
“John is a rancher first and foremost. He’s our founder and owner, but most of the time he’s a boots-on-theground rancher."
The Helle family has ranched this land in Dillon since the 1930s. “My great-grandfather had a small farm outside Dillon,” says Helle, “but when he passed away in his early 50s, my great-grandmother sold it to the bank and bought a smaller place in town that we still own today.” Since that time, the Helles have raised Rambouillet Merino sheep on this land, an ancient breed from Western Europe known for its soft wool.
The process of getting this wool from sheep to shelf is a family affair. “John is a rancher first and foremost,” says Fionna Pierce, Duckworth’s head of marketing. “He’s our founder and owner, but most of the time he’s a boots-on-the-ground rancher in Dillon.” Karen Helle, John’s wife, is the CFO, handling administration, payroll, and HR. They have four children – Evan, Nathan, Weston, and Clare – Evan is the Director of Operations for Duckworth, and Weston ranches with John. Nathan and Clare work in Dillon, in construction and as a surgical tech, respectively.
What about the sheep? Well, they have a pretty good life. Ranging openly at elevations up to 9,500 feet, the herd makes its way from the ranch every July into the Gravelly Mountains, guided by shepherds and border collies, where they graze on natural grasses on Forest Service lease land. The sheep can handle a swing of 40 below to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and all these factors grow a wool that is especially soft yet sturdy, and “very crimpy,” as Evan puts it. “Sheep are very nomadic, gregarious, and intelligent,” Helle explains. “They can recognize faces and voices. They’ve evolved over nine thousand years never leaving their flock and having a
shepherd tend them, so they’re wired differently from cattle or horses. They don’t like being outside the group.”
After being shorn onsite at the ranch, the sheep scamper back to being sheep, and each fleece is then tested and graded. Duckworth has partnered with the Montana Wool Lab at Montana State University, which assists in genetic testing. Fibers are spun into a special yarn and sent across the country to hard-won wool manufacturers, where they are finished into garments.
It’s worth noting that the U.S. textile industry has been depressed for some time, and thus most wool apparel is manufactured overseas. Creating jobs and community by staying local is a priority for the Helles, and because America’s few textile mills are geared toward synthetics and cotton, it took some effort to locate a U.S.-based processor. But before long, Duckworth began thriving while keeping its wool, processing, and manufacturers within this country.
Besides shirts – base to outer layers – Duckworth also makes vests, jackets, leggings, underwear, hats gloves, balaclavas, neck gaiters, hoodies, sweatshirts, and koozies. Their website even has a “Layer-Finder” quiz to help shoppers determine the best choices for them.
Keeping their supply chain vertically integrated and practicing good land stewardship and conservation are all paramount to Duckworth. “I work with the Ruby Valley Strategic Alliance, and several of us ranchers meet monthly with planning boards, conservation groups, the Forest Service, BLM, and others to work through important issues to preserve the natural aspects
of the Ruby Valley,” says Helle. “We have similar desires for the management of this land, and when we get together, we’ve been very successful in helping to protect public lands. By keeping working ranches on the landscape, we help to safeguard open space and corridors.”
In addition to this contribution, Duckworth ultimately supports local economies and communities. “Bringing jobs back to local communities is special for us,” says Pierce. “It’s not easy to find a reliable American supply chain, but we believe it’s the right thing to do.” To use one of the Helles’ mottos, there is no bad weather – only bad clothing. And with Duckworth, you know where that good clothing came from.
“Bringing jobs back to local communities is special for us. It’s not easy to find a reliable American supply chain, but we believe it’s the right thing to do.”
Bozeman Pro Detail embodies precision in the auto detailing and ceramic coating industry and prides themselves on delivering personalized experiences that go beyond just cleaning cars. As the industry-leading ceramic coating installer in the Gallatin Valley, they offer a range of specialized services tailored to meet the unique needs of their customers.
The most effective way to increase the longevity of your vehicle is by investing in ceramic coatings. By chemically bonding glass crystals to the surface, ceramic coatings provide a durable and long-lasting layer of protection for your vehicle's paint, helping to shield it from environmental contaminants, UV rays, and other damaging elements for two to eight years. By applying a ceramic coating to your vehicle, you can enhance its resistance to scratches, swirl marks, and fading, ultimately extending the lifespan of your paint job. Ceramic coatings also make maintenance easier by repelling water, dirt, and grime, keeping your vehicle looking pristine for longer.
Traditional wax simply sticks to the surface of your vehicle's paint, providing temporary protection with the best wax in the world lasting no more than one to two months in our Montana conditions. In contrast, a ceramic coating chemically bonds glass crystals to the paint, creating a durable and long lasting barrier acting as a sacrificial layer of clear coat. By forming a molecular bond with the paint, our ceramic coating provides superior durability and protection, ensuring your vehicle maintains a flawless appearance and lasting shield.
One common misconception about detailing is that it is solely focused on enhancing the appearance of a vehicle, often overlooking the critical task of restoring and safeguarding deteriorating clear coats. Another misconception is underestimating the significant amount of work involved in these jobs. In reality, detailing demands a substantial investment of time and effort, with more than 20 to 40 man-hours typically dedicated to a meticulous ceramic coating job. This thorough process extends beyond surface aesthetics, emphasizing essential protective measures and revitalizing the overall condition of the vehicle.
We definitely consider detailing to be an art form. The level of precision, skill, and attention to detail required to achieve flawless results in detailing is akin to that of an artist. Detailing involves a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and passion for perfection. Each vehicle presents a unique canvas for us to work on, and we approach each detailing job with the same level of dedication and creativity as an artist would approach a masterpiece.
It's not a single standout that comes to mind, but rather the incredible variety of vehicles that have crossed our path. Each one, from the fully customized 800hp 1956 Bel Air to the powerful 1800hp 1970 Chevelle, and the sleek exotics like Ferraris and Porsches, to the innovative electric vehicles and custom-built trucks, has left a lasting impression on us. It's the thrill of encountering something unique and extraordinary every day that truly fuels our passion for what we do.
The level of precision, skill, and attention to detail required to achieve flawless results in detailing is akin to that of an artist.
"Detailing demands a substantial investment of time and effort, with more than 20 to 40 man-hours typically dedicated to a meticulous ceramic coating job."
IS
Our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional services is rooted in our genuine desire to engage with our customers on a personal level. By recognizing the impact of a clean car on our customers' mental state and overall well-being, we strive to provide a service that not only enhances the appearance of their vehicles but also uplifts their spirits. Making a positive difference in their lives, no matter how small, is what drives us in our commitment to personalized and top-tier services.
Our comprehensive maintenance plan, which includes a free interior detail every three months, ensures that your vehicle receives inside and out care, maintaining its pristine condition and maximizing its longevity. By safeguarding your vehicle against environmental damage and providing regular, thorough maintenance, you can preserve its resale value and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with driving a well-maintained vehicle.
YOU ONLY GET ONE RETIREMENT
Retirement marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and sound financial choices. It's often envisioned as a period of relaxation, exploration and deep connection with family and friends. However, this dream doesn't just manifest. It necessitates forward-thinking and detailed planning, regardless of one's financial status. Amid global economic changes, evolving life expectancies and intricate tax systems, an all-encompassing and strategic retirement plan is more crucial than ever.
A key element of effective retirement planning is diversifying your income sources. While staples like 401(k)s or IRAs are foundational, it's equally important to branch out. Dividend-bearing stocks can provide regular dividends, bonds offer both periodic interest and principal return and real estate, whether directly or indirectly owned, has potential for both rental income and value growth. Private investments can also yield passive income and impressive returns.
Tax considerations significantly influence retirement strategies. Each financial action, from asset sales to account withdrawals, can carry tax consequences. Knowing these details can greatly influence one's overall retirement income. Tactics such as Roth IRA conversions can help distribute tax liabilities over time, allowing for tax-free withdrawals later on. Using strategies like tax-loss harvesting can balance out capital gains, ensuring proactive steps to reduce tax impact.
Annuities have long been recognized as a popular retirement income source. An annuity is essentially a financial contract that can
offer a steady and predictable income, with options that might even extend to lifetime payouts. Available in varieties like fixed, variable and indexed, they often come with tax advantages. However, retirees should also be aware of certain drawbacks. These might include fees and expenses, issues around liquidity, and potential concerns related to inflation.
Delving into the world of Alternative Investments, retirees can consider assets such as hedge funds, private equity and real assets, among others. These investments may promise higher returns and provide diversification away from traditional stocks and bonds. However, the complexities of these investments mean they often come with challenges like illiquidity, higher fees and the need for a thorough understanding of the investment itself.
Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), while not familiar to everyone, can be a potential retirement income source. Historically rooted, DSTs offer a form of passive real estate investment, which can lead to regular distributions. They also open doors to 1031 exchange possibilities, offering tax deferral benefits. But, just like any other investment, DSTs have their limitations, notably the lack of liquidity and the heavy reliance on trust management.
Introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) were designed to spur economic development. Investing in these zones can lead to deferral, reduction and even the potential elimination of certain capital gains taxes. However, they often require a long-term investment horizon, and retirees must be well-versed with the specifics of the chosen opportunity zone.
“USING STRATEGIES LIKE TAX-LOSS HARVESTING CAN BALANCE OUT CAPITAL GAINS, ENSURING PROACTIVE STEPS TO REDUCE TAX IMPACT.”
Rental Income remains a favorite for many looking for consistent returns. Whether through direct property ownership or Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), real estate can offer passive income, tax benefits and appreciation. Yet, the responsibilities tied to property management, the uncertainties of market fluctuations and other associated costs must not be ignored.
The backbone of many retirement plans, Social Security Income, provides a safety net for millions. Established with the intent of financial assistance, the amount one receives depends on various factors. There are also strategies retirees can employ to maximize these benefits, such as deciding on the optimal time to claim or considering the implications of working while receiving benefits.
Beyond the immediate realm of retirement, estate planning emerges. This encompasses not just post-retirement arrangements but also asset distribution for future generations or charitable endeavors. Regularly reviewing wills, trusts and beneficiary designations ensures alignment with changing circumstances.
Philanthropy seamlessly integrates with retirement plans. Beyond fulfilling a personal mission to give back, it also carries financial benefits. Using instruments like donor-advised funds or charitable trusts lets individuals make impactful societal contributions while enjoying tax advantages.
You only get one retirement. In the ever-evolving world of finance, staying updated and flexible is essential to ensure the continued relevance and efficiency of one's retirement strategy.
Securities offered only by duly registered individuals of Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals of Csenge Advisory Group, LLC. MAS, Csenge Advisory Group, LLC and Impact Wealth, LLC are not affiliated entities. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency.
Every retirement journey is distinct, and each vision merits expert guidance. Impact Wealth is based in Boulder Colorado. You can contact them at Impact@ImpactWealth.com.
1. Develop an investment strategy. A sound investment strategy should account for your time horizon for when you plan to use the money and the level of risk you are willing to take. Having a solid game plan will help investors avoid making emotional decisions based on short-term swings in the market.
“Almost everyone has a need to set aside money for the future, and with inflation chipping away at the value of our dollars there is also a need to seek growth on the money saved. Still, investing your hard-earned dollars can be daunting, especially if you are just getting started.”
There may be a misconception that you need a large lump-sum to start investing, but setting the habit of saving a set amount each month will accumulate faster than you think. Keep in mind that your earliest invested dollars will have the longest time to compound and grow.
No matter how much you believe in a particular company or individual investment, putting all your money into one idea can be catastrophic. Concentration risks go beyond just individual stocks. For instance, you could be too concentrated in one sector, such as technology. In that case, your investment success hinges entirely on the success or failure of only one part of the overall market. This risk can be mitigated by investing in different companies, sectors, and types of investments so that the underperformance of a particular investment does not necessarily spell bad news for your entire portfolio.
Taking advantage of employer matches and tax-deferral in accounts such as 401(k)s often makes very good financial sense. However, these plans are not a one-size-fits-all solution for achieving your financial goals. Contribution limits may prevent you from saving enough for retirement, and limitations on access to the funds make them a poor solution for more intermediate-term goals that you may be saving for.
Regular reviews help investors ensure that they are on track to meet their goals, and that the investments still align with their objectives.
Doug Castle is a Certified Financial Professional helping people make the most of their resources to achieve their financial goals.
Castle Financial Strategies is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC.
APRIL 2024
APRIL 4TH
Blend Bozeman Winery 31 S Willson Ave Bozeman, MT
Join the Downbeat Vintage Swing Society for their weekly vintage swing social, now at the Blend Winery! A non-profit focusing on spreading vintage swing dancing as a form of community building, they host an introductory swing lesson every week to get you on the dance floor, followed by a social to dance and drink Blend's awesome wine. DownbeatSwing.com
APRIL 13TH
Gallatin County Fairgrounds 901 N Black Ave Bozeman, MT
Clean out your closets! 406 Consignary is hosting Bozeman's Spring & Summer Children's Consignment Boutique Pop-Up. Shop and sell items for mom, children, teens, and more, including clothing, shoes, books, toys and gear. 406Consignary.com
APRIL 20TH
Hilton Garden Inn 2023 Commerce Way, Bozeman, MT
The 19th Annual Thrive Lily Ball: Black & White Gala celebrates Thrive's programs and raises the critical funds needed to serve families and children in the Gallatin Valley. Cocktails, live and silent auctions, dinner and music. AllThrive.org
APRIL 20TH
Gallatin County Fairgrounds 901 N Black Ave Bozeman, MT
Festival talks, exhibits, food, live music and children's activities. Plus a live raptor presentation and The Magic Monster Show with Random Acts of Silliness! GallatinValleyEarthDay.org
APRIL 22ND
Montana’s
Bozeman Public Library 626 E. Main Street Bozeman, MT
La Tray is a Métis storyteller and an enrolled member of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. He is the author of One-Sentence Journal: Short Poems and Essays from the World at Large. Free and open to the public. BozemanLibrary.org
APRIL 22ND
The Downtown Bozeman Association and participating downtown restaurants, pubs, and cafes are excited to bring you The 4th Annual Downtown Bozeman Restaurant Week. This 7-day event beginning April 22nd will be filled with good eats and drinks, off-menu specials, exclusive dining experiences, plus chances to win prizes. DowntownBozeman.org