Help wanted ads go unanswered in West (AP)

John Francis, who owns the McDonald's in Sidney, Mont., poses for a photo in front a sign he is using to attract potential new employees, Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007. Francis found himself outsourcing the drive-thru window to a Texas telemarketing firm, not because it's cheaper but because he can't find workers. Record low unemployment across parts of the West has created tough working conditions for business owners, who in places are being forced to boost wages or be creative to fill their jobs. (AP Photo/Ellen Wznick)AP – The owner of a fast food joint in Montana’s booming oil patch found himself outsourcing the drive-thru window to a Texas telemarketing firm, not because it’s cheaper but because he can’t find workers.