Dear Expie: Food Insecurity and Fluffy Friends

Dear Expie,

I’m really worried about food. I live off campus and don’t have a meal plan. I work, but rent is expensive, and I can’t afford to buy a lot of food. I’m getting tired of eating just mac n’ cheese every day. What should I do?

- Hungry Hungry Co-Ed

Dear Hungry,

First off, our campus has an awesome food pantry called the Bounty of the Bridgers. Any MSU student, faculty, staff or family member can use the pantry services. The “Permanent Pantry” is located in the basement of the Office of Health Advancement (1102 S. 6th Ave.) on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. On Saturday, the “Pop-Up Pantry” is located at Family and Graduate Housing (1218 S. 15th Ave) from 2 to 4 p.m. You can make unlimited trips to the food pantry for bread and produce, and the staff is kind and helpful.

In addition, make sure to check out the Fork and Spoon restaurant on 302 N 7th Ave #3308, Bozeman, MT 59715. It’s a pay-what-you-can restaurant, which means that you can go there for dinner and pay as much or as little as you can or want for your meal. It’s open from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday through Friday. 

Finally, Town and Country is one of the cheapest grocery stores in town. They have weekly ads with plenty of coupons as well. Grab a basket and head to any of these food resources. Stay safe and eat up.

Dear Expie,

 How do I take advantage of my Dungeon Master’s inebriation to do whatever I want in my Dungeons and Dragons game?

— Bardically Inspired

Dear Bardically,

It’s very easy! You simply just do it. THIS ALWAYS WORKS. Congratulations on your ability to fudge rolls, make up spells and increase your damage at will. 

Dear Expie,

I want to get a dog so badly, but I’m not sure if I can handle the responsibility. It seems like a really big deal. How do I make up my mind?

— Doggy Doubter

Dear Doubter,

Any pet is a big commitment! It’s great that you’re taking the time to think it through. First, I’d recommend evaluating your finances. Make sure that you have the money to adopt or purchase a dog, provide medical care and purchase food and other necessities. 

Next, think about the amount of free time that you have. Owning a pet requires a large time commitment. Your dog needs time to play outside, go on walks and enjoy time with you. If you’re unable to give your dog a minimum of one hour a day, you shouldn’t get a dog. 

Finally, think about the myriad of other requirements for owning a pet. Are you able to socialize your dog with others? Are you open to reading up on your dog and learning about their behaviors and attitudes? Are you willing to train and take care of your dog?

If you need more information, there is a great quiz online at the American Kennel Club’s website: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/are-you-ready-to-get-a-dog/. Make sure to read up on your responsibilities as a pet owner before you get a dog, and enjoy your fluffy new friend.