LEADERSHIP ALUMNI Notable Leadership almuni, where are they now Pg. 8
MEMBER PROFILE Vallely Sport & Marine Pg. 10
LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN Now accepting applications for BismarckMandan's premier leadership program Pg. 15
Connection JULY 2021
WWW.BISMARCKMANDAN.COM
A WORK OF ART (AND LEADERSHIP) LEADERSHIP PROGRAM BRINGS ART TO BISMARCK-MANDAN
A BUSINESS PUBLICATION OF THE BISMARCK MANDAN CHAMBER EDC
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Valerie Weigel ................................................................... Chair Kevin Strege ...............................................................Vice-Chair Wendy Van Duyne ........................................................Secretary Mike Schmitz ................................................................Treasurer Brian Eiseman ............................................................ Past Chair
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Evan Anderson ...........................................................Gizmonics Steve Bakken ......................................................City of Bismarck Andrea Birst ...............................................Glance Spa & Salon Nathan Boehm ....................................................Morton County Brian Eiseman ...............................................Stoneshire Builders Amber Larson.....................................................City of Mandan Karl Lembke ......................................................Vaaler Insurance Becky Matthews ................................................Burleigh County Allan Miller ............................................................Anyleaks, Inc. Dr. Sara Weigel Ness ..............................Active Life Chiropractic Marnie Piehl ................................North Dakota Safety Council Mike Remboldt ................................................................HIT Inc. Matt Sagaser ......................................................Doosan Bobcat Mike Schmitz ......................................Schmitz-Holmstrom CPAs Garret Senger ...............................Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. Kevin Strege ................................................Credit Foundations Wendy Van Duyne .....................Stantec Consulting Services Inc. Valerie Weigel .......................Basin Electric Power Cooperative Lee Weisbeck ..........................................................Starion Bank
CHAMBER EDC STAFF
Brian Ritter ...................................................................President Aasta Eggert .......Economic Development Marketing Specialist Ross Frohlich ............................................Membership Director Christine Nelson ....................................Event & Sales Manager Rebecca Pelkey .................................Communications Specialist Elliot Rust ................................................Chief Financial Officer Lyndsey Scheurer .........................Creative Marketing Specialist Nathan Schneider ................................................Vice President Josie Smyle ..................................................Events Coordinator Cathryn Sprynczynatyk .....................Communications Specialist
1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-223-5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com
CONTACT INFORMATION Content Rebecca Pelkey rpelkey@bmcedc.com
Advertising Christine Nelson cnelson@bmcedc.com
Open your door to Living First Success is about progress, and is founded on hard work. First International Bank & Trust can take the work out of managing your accounts. Our experts can custom tailor banking solutions to best suit your operations, so you can get back to business. BANKING | MORTGAGE | INSURANCE* | TRUST & INVESTMENTS*
FIBT.com 0274_5-21
2 4 Connection
*Not FDIC or any federal agency insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value
O
CONNECTION | CHAIR'S CORNER
ur team always does a great job of addressing those ‘big picture’ issues in the Connection. For instance, last month’s issue focused on our community’s recreation economy, and the issue before that was all about the new quality of life amenities that help attract and retain talent. That trend continues this month with a look at the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program, some notable alumni, and impactful field projects. For more than 30 years, Leadership Bismarck-Mandan (LBM) has taken local business leaders and helped prepare them for volunteer or even elected service right here in Bismarck-Mandan. We do this through a series of half-day workshops that we refer to as ‘issue days’ each focused on a different topic such as economic development, education, and healthcare. It’s here that participants hear directly from leaders in each of those industries learning more about the issues, challenges, etc. affecting that particular industry. The capstone then is a field project in which the entire class is divided into different teams who take on a specific challenge or issue impacting Bismarck-Mandan and then develop a plan to address it. In this month’s edition of the Connection, you’re going to meet several LBM alumni who have made an impact on our community since graduating from the program while also learning about some notable LBM field projects that continue to impact Bismarck-Mandan. Now, how is LBM is one of those ‘big picture’ issues that I referenced earlier? Well, it’s all about leadership development. A growing community like Bismarck-Mandan needs leaders in business to step forward and serve whether that’s on the board of a local non-profit or on a city commission. To help ensure that happens, the Chamber EDC has developed what we call our continuum of leadership development which looks like this: STEP 1: Our Student Leadership Network takes high school students from around Bismarck-Mandan and puts them through a condensed version of Leadership Bismarck-Mandan to give them a look at their community.
STEP 2: Hopefully, those students will choose to stick around Bismarck-Mandan and join others who have moved here to participate in any numbers of events, programs, etc. with the Young Professionals Network giving them even more insight into how they can impact our community. STEP 3: If one of those leaders is looking to take that next step, they can do so by participating in LBM.
The hope is that a local business leader, whether they’ve participated in all or none of these programs, will then take the leap and serve on a local board or commission. If you or someone you know wants to learn more, please don’t hesitate to contact the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660 and our team would be happy to discuss more.
Valerie Weigel Chamber EDC Board Chair
twitter.com/bismancedc facebook.com/bismancedc @bismancedc “Meadowlark” is an Alley 5.5 mural by Mitch Sander in downtown Bismarck.
Connection 3 3
FEATURE | CONNECTION
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM BRINGS ART TO BISMARCK-MANDAN By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk
Community projects have always been an integral part of the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program. After six months of community education, we want participants to put that knowledge to use and make an impact in the community. The cohort brainstorms project ideas until the favorites of the class bubble to the surface. We want the class to be working on community projects that they are passionate about. Six out of the past seven years have included at least one public art project each year. The hunger for public art is evident in our community.
ART ALLEY 5.5
Perhaps best known of the public art projects is Alley 5.5. The art alley is a collection of murals in downtown Bismarck located between Fifth Street and Sixth Street parallel to Main Avenue and Broadway Avenue.
North Dakota Music Lane
“We basically turned that space into a walkable alley,” said Peter Pomonis, a member of the 2016 field project team. “It was determined through our time in Leadership BismarckMandan there was a lack of public art in our community.” Pomonis is a Senior Sales Account Executive for CoScedule. He is also an artist who created a small mural in the alley. The team partnered with Dakota West Arts Council to create Alley 5.5. DWAC had recently completed a utility box project that served as a model for how to gain approval from the City of Bismarck and how to structure the Call for Artists. The theme for submissions was “Reflections of North Dakota,” and preference but not exclusivity was given to local artists. While Alley 5.5 is a functioning alley with dumpsters and delivery trucks, it has also become a magnet for professional photo sessions — from graduation photos to wedding photos. The alley even graced the cover of Parade magazine. The team raised $25,000 to commission art on both sides of the alley. Kirkwood Ace Hardware gave the paint to artists at cost.
4 4 Connection
“It was really cool to have an impact on the community,” Pomonis said. “Bismarck-Mandan is small enough to go through a 9-month program and come out with a project like this. It was cool to see what an impact a small group could have. Our assumptions were correct that our community wanted to see more public art.”
NORTH DAKOTA MUSIC LANE
There is just as much hunger for public art in Mandan as there is in Bismarck. The Class of 2017 worked to create the North Dakota Music Lane in Mandan’s Dykshoorn Park. The team partnered with the organizers of the North Dakota Music Hall of Fame. At that time, the organizers were trying to establish a physical location for the North Dakota Music Hall of Fame in Mandan. “We were inspired by the art alley before us and the utility boxes wrapped in Bismarck,” said team member Lesley Icenogle. “We thought there was an opportunity to do that in Mandan as well. They placed a priority on downtown beautification in their strategic planning.” Icenogle is Development Director at Gateway to Science and a member of the Leadership Class of 2017.
CONNECTION | FEATURE
HERITAGE ART TUNNEL
Sometimes, the best ideas are born out of failure. The Heritage Art Tunnel team from Class of 2019 started working on a completely different field project before it failed within the first 24 hours. The team regrouped to begin work on Heritage Art Tunnel in Bismarck. The field project will add art to the tunnel located within the NDDOT right-of-way under State Street/U.S. Highway 83, between the Capitol grounds and Myron Atkinson Park.
Rendering of Heritage Art Tunnel
The murals feature the first inductees into the North Dakota Music Hall of Fame: Lawrence Welk, Peggy Lee, Bobby Vee, and Lynn Anderson. The team commissioned artist Melissa Gordon to create the images. After reviewing a Call for Artists, Icenogle said they were drawn to the way she depicted each musician’s songs through symbolism. Dykshoorn Park was selected in part for its place in Mandan’s summer music scene with the bandshell concert series. Additionally, City of Mandan already had plans to renovate Dykshoorn Park — major improvements which are happening now. The team raised $15,000 for the art. After Gordon created the artwork, Mann Signs reproduced the artwork in a form that could be installed on a fence. The team worked with Mandan’s community beautification committee for initial approvals and worked with the city throughout to make sure they had a sustainable plan. “Gathering the right stakeholders early in the process is important,” Icenogle said, “especially working with the city, talking to the right committees, and involving them as we co-develop the project as opposed to getting far down the road and realizing you don’t have the proper approvals… “It’s fun to be part of this legacy that is being we built in the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program and every year to see the projects that are being built to make the communities more livable.”
The proposed murals have also been designed by artist Melissa Gordon. The property is managed by the North Dakota Capitol Grounds Planning Commission, which lead to a lengthy approval process for the field project team. “We took the bull by the horns,” said team member Heather Pitsiladis. “There are easier tunnels out there. I feel like our group was perfectly paired for such a difficult project.” Pitsiladis is Marketing Manager for Glance Spa & Salon and a 2019 graduate of the Leadership program. The team has raised $27,500, and the mural is ready to be painted this summer. The mural’s theme is energy. It starts with very early geologic periods in forming North Dakota. Lake Agassiz and dinosaurs are depicted. The dinosaurs become North Dakota’s fossil fuels — coal, oil, and natural gas. Native American-farmed corn is depicted, which becomes ethanol. The windmills of early pioneers become the wind farms of today. Connecting all the images is the motif of a computer motherboard. The colors of the motherboard correspond to different chapters in the state’s North Dakota Studies curricula. “We learned tenacity,” Pitsiladis said. “We learned patience. We learned there are a lot of channels through which you have to go between state, local, Capitol grounds. We never dreamed it would be such extensive preparation. Whatever it took, we knew it would finish with a bang. We’re two years in, and we haven’t even put paint on the wall.” At long last, the tunnel shout be painted by the end of this summer.
Connection 3 5
FEATURE | CONNECTION
BISMARCK EVENT CENTER SIGN ART
After the Bismarck Civic Center changed its name the Bismarck Event Center, money had to be spent changing the signage. One piece proved too expensive. At the Bismarck Event Center’s south entrance, there is still a prominent column reading “Bismarck Civic Center.” A team from the Class of 2020 saw an opportunity for public art there. The existing monument will be fitted with new sign panels adorned with public art. “The theme is community resilience and strengthening community,” said team member Will Hutchings. “That was chosen to reflect the unique year we have been through with the pandemic. Each piece reflects something about the human experience. One is about people coming together for a concert. One is about driving into the big city and seeing the city lights at night. One piece reflects kids throwing ball back and forth, but the balls are hearts.” Hutchings is a Planner with City of Bismarck and a member of the Leadership Class of 2020. The Class of 2020 finished their year virtually after the COVID-19 pandemic arrived. “The biggest lesson we learned is to be flexible especially with artists and the way you are approaching the project,” Hutchings said. “We had our own beliefs and ideas of what would make most sense. When we spoke with the artists, they had their own experience with media that we needed to take into account.” The team raised more than $13,000, and the project should be completed later this summer.
TALKING TRAIL
With the recent blossoming of public art in BismarckMandan, it has left some people wanting more information behind the art. The Leadership Class of 2021 is now working with the Talking Trail app to create a virtual guide featuring the artists telling their own stories. Similar to the Heritage Art Tunnel, this group originally started on another project that failed within the first 24-hours. “We as a group combined our love for outdoors with the opportunity to attract people downtown with the interactive Talking Trail app,” said team member Tina Stanger. “We are connecting the dots to get Talking Trail in Art Alley 5.5 and working with the Historic Preservation Commission to place Talking Trail points on 10 historic sites within a short distance from downtown.”
Rendering of Bismarck Event Center sign art.
Stanger is Director of Alumni Relations for University of Mary and a member of the Leadership Class of 2021. The Talking Trail app is based in North Dakota. The plan is for 10 Talking Trail points to feature audio of the artists talking about their artwork. The information will be accessible by a smartphone app for the curious public art patron. The team is currently in the fundraising stage. Funding for the historic building talking points has already been approved. The team is in the process of raising $10,000 for talking points in Alley 5.5. The annual maintenance cost will be $1,200, which will be split by various downtown partners. “We learned about the importance of telling the story of our community project especially telling it face-to-face,” Stanger said. “It has given us great feedback as we proceed to make sure what we’re doing matters to the community at large. We learned to pivot as a group. We have diverse talents, and we all played to our strengths as we work together. We learned a tremendous amount from the partners in this venture. In working with these great organizations and agencies, we learned how they interact, how they are funded in working on this project… “I recommend this class to everybody, and I look forward to seeing what future projects are able to accomplish.”
6 4 Connection
CONNECTION | FEATURE
Business solutions that don’t stop. Small and local. Big and global. Whatever the size and scope of your business, Midco provides the services and support to keep you movin’, groovin’ and in control.
Midco.com/Business
Internet. Phone. TV. Advertising.
Connection 3 7
FEATURE | CONNECTION
LBM ALUMNI: WHERE ARE THEY NOW? By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Throughout 32 years the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program has produced 450 community leaders. Connection magazine is highlighting a handful of those notable community leaders.
DEIDRE HILLMAN Class of 2014 State Director, North Dakota Women’s Business Center
TODD STEINWAND Class of 1992 Interim President, Bank of North Dakota
GABE SCHELL Class of 2013 City Engineer, City of Bismarck
“This program exposed me to areas of the community I never knew we even had, and I still use lessons learned, connections, and ideas from it to date!”
“The relationships I developed with my Chamber EDC Leadership classmates provided me with a valuable network that I have leveraged in my business career.”
“Leadership Bismarck-Mandan exposes you to a multitude of community issues that you didn’t know about and gives you a deeper understanding of the community issues you thought you knew.”
MIKE MABIN Class of 1993 Founder/CEO, Agency MABU “I discovered a myriad of ways in which I and other aspiring leaders could get involved and positively impact the quality of life in my community.”
8 4 Connection
MIKE NATHE Class of 2005 Owner, Bismarck Funeral Home Elected Office: North Dakota House of Representatives "The program gave me a great overall picture of the Bismarck-Mandan business community and how they are benefiting the area."
CONNECTION | FEATURE
DAVID MASON Class of 2010 Bismarck President, First International Bank & Trust
MARY VAN SICKLE Class of 1992 Executive Director, Dakota Media Access
RON NESS Class of 1995 President, North Dakota Petroleum Council
“I have met some wonderful people and learned so much about all of the different successes, needs, and stories about Bismarck-Mandan through the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program.”
“Leadership Bismarck-Mandan is a comprehensive program with behindthe-scenes access to area businesses, organizations, and government which provides a better understanding of the challenges facing our region and the opportunity to be involved in driving positive community change.”
“Leadership Bismarck-Mandan was a huge step-forward in my career. I was able to meet and create relationships with city, state, and community leaders that I otherwise would not have met while working for North Dakota Department of Labor.”
DAN DONLIN Class of 2009 Director, North Dakota State Radio – North Dakota Department of Emergency Services
AMBER LARSON Class of 2018 Senior Marketing Manager, Bartlett & West Elected Office: Mandan City Commission
NANCY GUY Class of 2007 Retired, Operations Director at Lewis & Clark Development Group Elected Office: Bismarck City Commission
“There were so many benefits to the Leadership program — including sparking my drive to run for office — but my favorite part was working on the Little Free Library project with my incredible project team.”
“I thought I knew my community inside and out but I was wrong — Leadership Bismarck-Mandan took me on a deep dive into resources, issues, and opportunities that I would not otherwise know about.”
“The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program created professional networking opportunities and expanded my awareness and knowledge of the many people, businesses, and governmental agencies within the Bismarck-Mandan community that perform various functions that make Bismarck-Mandan the great community it is today.”
Connection 3 9
MEMBER PROFILE | CONNECTION
Vallely Sport & Marine has been a member since 1999.
Josh Vallely VALLELY SPORT & MARINE
Tell us about yourself and your role within your business. A: My name is Josh Vallely and I’m the third-generation owner of my family’s marine business, Vallely Sport & Marine in Bismarck. Boating has been a part of my life since I was born and spending time at the lake is what my family did for recreation growing up. To this day, I continue to spend a lot of time on the water, raising my own children in the boating lifestyle.
10 4 Connection
MEMBER SINCE 1999
Briefly tell us the history behind Vallely Sport & Marine. A: Vallely Sport & Marine is a locally owned business that began in 1974. Since its early beginning in Williston, many things have changed. Our original founders, John and Arlene Vallely first opened our doors selling International trucks, pickups, TravelAlls, and Scouts. From there, Vallely Truck Center, Inc. became Vallely Truck & Marine with the first of many expansions, including the addition of popular boat lines to expand the used-car business. In the fall of 1986, our second marine location opened in Minot, which later brought more excitement as we acquired the Dodge, Chrysler, and Plymouth automobile franchises to go along with our store in Williston.
CONNECTION | MEMBER PROFILE Our most recent expansion and acquisition took place in 1999 when we purchased Twin City Marine and BoatWorld in Bismarck. The two stores were merged and operated as Twin City BoatWorld until 2004 when we purchased over 5+ acres of land and built our state-ofthe-art sport and marine facility at our present location at 2800 East Bismarck Expressway. How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted Vallely Sport & Marine? A: I’ve enjoyed watching the outdoor recreation industry progress as Bismarck-Mandan and surrounding communities expand. Building our business around carrying a wide variety of products for each season has helped us serve our clients effectively and keep us with a fully trained staff. We certainly peak during the summer season when our products are being used, but we also have a large storage and service business that keeps us busy during these months. These peaks can create many challenges to maintain the high customer service expectations we have for ourselves, but we are always prepared for it and work endless hours to accomplish this during our busiest months. What trends are taking place in your industry? A: As with any industry, ours is fiercely competitive. Sustainability, interconnectivity, higher-level technology, and lifecycle costs are major trends that remain consistent. Boats and other watercrafts especially are becoming more powerful with the advancement of performance-enhancing features. On the other hand, they are also becoming more luxurious and energyefficient, as most boats and pontoons are used for fishing and relaxing. Have there been any monumental changes within your industry that you’ve had to deal with? A: In our 47 years of business, recreation has changed tremendously. The biggest change has been the development of new technology and dealing with how it will advance the equipment and vehicles in the sport and marine industry in the future. This will continue to drive the industry forward and require our businesses to constantly change and adapt for our customers. What does the future of Vallely Sport & Marine look like, and the industry as a whole look like to you? A: We are excited hopeful for the future of both Vallely Sport & Marine locations. Although we stay our busiest during the summer months, we do carry products for all seasons which allows our businesses to cater to our customer’s recreational and outdoor needs year-round. As the Bismarck-Mandan communities continue to grow, so do our outdoor recreational opportunities, and I don’t ever see that fading away.
Vallely Sport & Marine became members in 1999, why do you continue to renew each year? A: We continue to renew our membership with the Chamber EDC because it’s important to support the community that supports us! Being a member gives our businesses a better opportunity to stay involved and informed about things that are continuously evolving in Bismarck-Mandan. What should other Chamber EDC members know about Vallely Sport & Marine that may assist them? A: Vallely Sport & Marine is North Dakota’s only Five Star Certified and ‘Boating Industry’s Top 100’ sport and marine dealer. Not only do we specialize in sales of boats, pontoons and personal watercrafts, but also ATVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles. In our showrooms, you’ll find the best boat and pontoon brands in the industry, including Sea Ray, Lund, MasterCraft, and Bennington. We also carry the leading powersports brands: Yamaha and Polaris. Our departments are fully stocked with marine and powersport accessories to always make you and your family’s outdoor experience affordable and fun. We strive to offer top-notch customer service with full maintenance and repairs of all new and pre-owned boats, ATVs, motorcycles, personal watercrafts, and snowmobiles. We hope you consider your next purchase from Vallely Sport & Marine!
Stay with us!
Special ATE CTING R CONTRA available ! WEEKLY
Whether you are our guest for just one night or an extended stay, we offer comfortable accommodations at a great price!
Accommodations • Mobile Check-In • Free WiFI • Free Parking • Free Breakfast • Pet Friendly
1124 E Capitol Ave, Bismarck, ND • 701-989-8110
Connection 3 11
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COST OF LIVING INFO RELEASED The 2021 1st quarter Cost of Living Index (COLI) was released in May. The COLI is put together by the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness and is an analysis of average prices submitted by over 265 urban areas across the United States. This analysis uses average prices submitted for the first quarters of 2021. The COLI compares all 265 submitted urban areas with a score of 100 being average. The information collected is also used to populate the Cost of Living Calculator on the Chamber EDC website. The calculator determines what salary someone would need to earn in Bismarck-Mandan to compare to what that person is earning in any of the other 264 urban areas. Both the index and the calculator assist the Chamber EDC is our talent attraction efforts. The graph provides a comparison to other area communities.
TEDX RETURNS
Experience a day of engaging speakers, creative activities, and community conversations at TEDxBismarck: Under the Microscope, Thursday August 12th. The day will begin with optional morning adventures that begin at 10:00am, followed by an afternoon of dynamic speakers, entertainers, and curated breaks that'll challenge you to try new things and think outside the box. The main event kicks off at 1:00pm at the Bismarck Event Center. The day will end with a rooftop reception at First International Bank & Trust immediately following the close of the program. To learn more about the speakers please visit the TEDx Bismarck Facebook Page or to find out how to purchase tickets visit www.tedxbismarck.com.
TECHNICAL SKILLS TRAINING GRANT AVAILABLE
The North Dakota Department of Commerce is now accepting applications for the Technical Skill Training Grant. Although a wide range of programs may qualify, Commerce anticipates that skilled trades and labor training programs are well-suited to develop accelerated programming or expand capacity in existing programs. Commerce was allocated $1 million by the 67th Legislative Assembly to administer the Technical Skills Training Grant to support accelerated, skills-based and hands-on workforce training programs. To learn more about the grant visit www.workforce.nd.gov.
12 4 Connection
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OF THE MONTH: LIFT PROGRAM The Innovation Technology Loan Fund (LIFT) is an innovation loan fund to support technology advancement by providing financing for commercialization of intellectual property within the state of North Dakota. The following industries qualify for these funds: • Advanced computing and data management • Agriculture technology • Autonomous and unmanned vehicles and related technologies • Energy • Health care • Value-added agriculture • Value-added energy • Any industry or area specifically identified by the committee as an industry that will contribute to the diversification of the state’s economy
The use of the loan funds are available to enhance capacity and to the extent possible, leverage state, federal and private sources of funding. Loan funds may be used to conduct applied research, experimentation or operational testing within the state. The LIFT Committee began accepting applications on June 11th. To learn more about the LIFT Fund you can visit their website at www.business. nd.gov/lift/ or contact Nathan at the Chamber EDC office.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CHAMBER EDC HOSTS EDUCATOR EXPERIENCE Throughout several of the Chamber EDC’s workforce development efforts there is an emphasis placed on connecting Bismarck-Mandan’s education community and business community. This is done to help educate our educators on the occupation opportunities available in the community with the idea that the educators take that information back into their classrooms and pass it along to their students. To assist in accomplishing this the Chamber EDC hosts one of its premier workforce development programs, Educator Experience. This year’s Educator Experience was held the week of June 7-11. Educator Experience, or E2, is eight half-day Educator Experience visited Midwest Ag Energy. sessions with each session focused on an industry in Bismarck-Mandan. The sessions are traditionally hosted at a business within the industry and presenters explain occupations within the industry with an emphasis on education requirements, skill sets needed, and wage/salary expectations. This year’s E2 focused on occupations in value-added agriculture, skilled trades, wildlife care, health, civil service, engineering, entrepreneur, and finished with a discussion from a variety of employers on the 21st century workplace and internships. This year E2 saw 18 teachers, career counselors, and administration participate in the program from a variety of schools. E2 continues to receive great reviews and feedback from educators is a program the Chamber EDC will continue to host as part of our workforce development efforts.
For more information on these events visit bismarckcancercenter.com 500 N 8th St|Bismarck, ND 58501 701-222-6100
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The Chamber EDC staff would like to thank all the businesses and presenters that made this year’s Educator Experience a success.
July 2-3
Mandan Rodeo
July 4
Mandan Road Race
July 31
Blue Grass Goes Pink
August 5
Beer and Boutiques
August 20 Drive to Survive August 21 Saddle Up Against Cancer Connection 3 13
CHAMBER EDC NEWS | CONNECTION
BISMARCK-MANDAN CELEBRATES ITS FINEST The Chamber EDC’s Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan Ad Hoc Committee is proud to announce that they have now decided which local businesses we are going to celebrate for their accomplishments within the community. Winners of such awards will be announced at the annual Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan Award Ceremony on Wednesday, September 22nd. At this year’s event, we will honor those who have been Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan is September 22. nominated in the following categories: • Granite Award Every year, the committee along with the help of the • Mike Fink Award for Steady Growth & Profitability community, recognizes and honors the organizations who • Golden Eagle Award have excelled in Bismarck-Mandan over the years! • New Entrepreneur of the Year • Small Business Person of the Year If your business would like a table to attend the event, • Young Entrepreneur of the Year please contact Josie Smyle at jsmyle@bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC office, 701-223-5660. Cost for a table is $450. Tickets are $40 for Chamber EDC members and $50 for General Admission. THANK YOU SPONSORS! Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsors: Award Sponsors:
BASIN ELECTRIC POWER COOPERATIVE A Touchstone Energy Cooperative ®
Table Sponsors: Bank of North Dakota, Bismarck Cancer Center, Bismarck State College, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Brady, Martz & Associates, Capital Credit Union, CornerStone Bank, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Eide Bailly, First International Bank & Trust, First Western Bank & Trust, Gate City Bank, Liberty Business Systems, Northwest Contracting, Sanford Health, Schmitz-Holmstrom CPA, Starion Bank, University of Mary Event Sponsor: Advanced Business Methods
14 4 Connection
CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC NEWS
ACCEPTING LEADERSHIP APPLICATIONS FOR 2021-2022 Leadership BismarckMandan is now accepting applications for the Class of 2022. Up to 18 applicants will be accepted into the program. Participants delve into today’s most compelling issues. Community experts create issue day sessions on topics relevant to the Bismarck-Mandan area, including: economic development, energy, agriculture, legislation, political involvement, human services, law enforcement, military, emergency services, arts, leisure, healthcare, and education. Most issue days are 1/2 day. Highlights of the program include a full day at the Capitol during the legislative session, a full day retreat, and a graduation ceremony. Following the issue days, the class will divide into groups, select a community project about which they are passionate and work to make that field project into reality. Applications are available online at www. bismarckmandan.com/Leadership-Bismarck-Mandan. Any questions, contact Cathryn at cathryn@bmcedc.com 701-223-5660. Applications are due Aug. 1, 2021. Program begins Sept. 22, 2021. Tuition is $625.
ALIGNED VISIONS. SUSTAINABLE PROJECTS. A BETTER WORLD.
SOLVING YOUR MOST COMPLEX CHALLENGES. With SEH, you are a true partner and collaborator.
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE Thanks to the generosity of Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association, Gate City Bank, and SCORE BismarckMandan for sponsoring limited scholarships to non-profits and small businesses. Please contact Cathryn at the Chamber EDC to inquire about a Leadership BismarckMandan scholarship.
Engineers | Architects | Planners | Scientists 701.354.7121 | sehinc.com/subscribe
Connection 3 15
CHAMBER EDC NEWS | CONNECTION
SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT IS AROUND THE CORNER It's never too early to start planning for a day of fun at Capital City Sporting Clays presented by Knife River on Friday, August 20th! It's an event that everyone can enjoy and there is always friendly competition. Registration starts at 8:00am with a light breakfast before a shotgun start promptly at 9:30am. Participants are encouraged to stay for a delicious lunch, ice cold refreshments and amazing door prizes. You can register individually and we will assign you to a team or you can sign up in teams of four. Admission includes shotgun shells (12 and 20 gauge), ear plugs, course fees, lunch, beverages and an opportunity to take home some great door prizes. Please register you and your team today by going online to www.bismarckmandan.com or by emailing Ross at rfrohlich@bmcedc.com.
16 4 Connection
CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC NEWS
ANOTHER GREAT CHAMBER EDC GOLF SCRAMBLE IN THE BOOKS! Golf, sun, and lots of fun! The 2021 Chamber EDC Golf Scramble, presented by Eide Ford Lincoln, was held at Apple Creek Country Club on Monday, June 14th. A SOLD-OUT tournament of 144 golfers played with winning teams going home with some great prizes! This event was once again full of fun, with many prizes and contests taking place at the member sponsored holes. Different prizes including Scheels gift card & swag from Eide Bailly, a night at the Radisson Hotel, vehicle detail from Advanced Fleet Services, nights stay and Hunter’s Club gift certificates from Prairie Knights Casino & Resort, virtual golf coupon and Volvik Golf Balls from Golf, Etc., and much more!
701-712-8600
ND CLASS 1 & 2
CWL TESTING EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY 8:00AM
$150 ONE STOP SHOP •
CLASS INSTRUCTION ($50)
BIG THANKS TO OUR AMAZING SPONSORS:
•
FINGERPRINT CARDS ($15)
Presenting Sponsor:
•
PASSPORT PHOTOS ($10)
•
$60 MONEY ORDER TO ND ATTORNEY GENERAL ($60)
•
RANGE FEE, POSTAGE, ENVELOPES, COPY OF DRIVERS LICENSE, ADMIN ($15)
Gold Sponsors: Hole Sponsors: Amy Hullet: Century 21 Morrison Realty, APT, Inc., Baymont Inn & Suites, Bismarck Cancer Center, BNC Bank, Capital Credit Union, Consolidated Construction, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, First Western Bank & Trust, ICON Architectural Group, Investcore, Inc. – Silver Ranch Development, Probitas Promotions, Radisson, Scheels, Vue Community Credit Union Putting Green Sponsor: Vogel Law Firm
BRING YOUR GUN (HANDGUNS AVAILABLE FOR RENT), AT LEAST 75 ROUNDS OF AMMO, TWO MAGAZINES, HIP HOLSTER, EYE & EAR PROTECTION
Lunch/Dinner Sponsor: Dakota Carrier Network Golf Cart Sponsor: Investcore, Inc. – Silver Ranch Development Tee Prize Sponsors: Amy Hullet: Century 21 Morrison Realty, Bismarck Municipal Airport Driving Range/Chipping Area Sponsor: Stage Stop Saloon and Grill
PRAIRIE PATRIOT FIREARMS TRAINING PRE-REGISTRATION & PRE-PAYMENT REQUIRED
FOR MORE INFO, CALL US AT 701-712-8600
Connection 3 17
CHAMBER EDC EVENTS | CONNECTION
AT THE
THURSDAYS AT THE CHAMBER EDC
Date: Thursday, July 29, 2021 Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Patio 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Presented By: We greatly appreciate our members and all the support you give throughout the year, so please, stop by and accept our small token of appreciation. Join Chamber EDC staff for a fun way to network on Thursday, July 29th, from 11:30am – 1:00pm on our beautiful patio while we serve burgers, brats, a choice of sides, along with ice cold refreshments. Contact Josie Smyle at jsmyle@bmcedc.com, or call 701-223-5660 to RSVP for this fun afternoon in the sun!
18 4 Connection
MEMBERSHIP MIXER: UNIVERSITY OF MARY Date: Thursday, August 19, 2021 Location: University of Mary 7500 University Drive, Bismarck Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend
Mark your calendar for the August Membership Mixer! On Thursday, August 19th from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, University of Mary will be hosting the August Membership Mixer. Join fellow Chamber EDC member for this Membership Mixer will we enjoy some business after hours. This event is a great way to get out and about for some fun networking while we enjoy some food along with refreshments. Mixers are FREE for Chamber EDC members to attend. Please consider attending and brining colleagues from your workplace! RSVP’s are appreciated and can be made by registering online at https://business.bismarckmandan. com/events or by contacting Josie Smyle at jsmyle@ bmcedc.com.
CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC EVENTS
AT THE
CHAMBER EDC SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT
Date: Friday, August 20, 2021 Location: Capital City Sporting Clays 12951 71st Ave NE, Bismarck Time: 9:00AM - 2:30PM Admission: $100 for Chamber EDC members $125 for General Admission Presenting Sponsor: It is never too early to start planning for a fun day at the Chamber EDC Sporting Clays Shootout! You can register individually and we will assign you to a team or you can sign-up in teams of four. Admission includes a light breakfast, shotgun shells (12 and 20 guage), ear plugs, course fees, lunch, refreshments and a great opportunity to win some amazing door prizes.
THURSDAYS AT THE CHAMBER EDC
Date: Thursday, August 26, 2021 Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Patio 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Presented By: We greatly appreciate our members and all the support you give throughout the year, so please, stop by and accept our small token of appreciation. Join Chamber EDC staff for a fun way to network on Thursday, August 26th, from 11:30am – 1:00pm on our beautiful patio while we serve burgers, brats, a choice of sides, along with ice cold refreshments. Contact Josie Smyle at jsmyle@bmcedc.com, or call 701-223-5660 to RSVP for this fun afternoon in the sun!
Please register you and your team today online at www.bismarckmandan.com o r by calling Ross at 701-223-5660.
Thank you Mandan Parks & Rec for choosing us as your I.T. provider for 10 years!
Connection 3 19
CHAMBER EDC EVENTS | CONNECTION
BRATS WITH THE BRAVE
Date: Friday, September 10, 2021 Location: Raymond J. Bohn Armory parking lot 4200 Miriam Ave, Bismarck Time: 11:30AM - 1:30PM Admission: Free to Attend Presented By: The Chamber EDC and its Military Affairs Committee invites the community to the annual Brats with the Brave appreciation picnic for the military and first responders! Join us to show your support and have an opportunity to have lunch with not only the military men and women who bravely serve or have served our country, but also the brave first responders. Come for brats and all the fixin’s, Friday, September 10th, at RJ Bohn Armory at 4200 Miriam Ave in Bismarck, from 11:30am – 1:30pm, or until we run out! Local veteran, active duty, and reserve military personnel, as well as first responders, will join us as we show our gratitude to their service for our community and our nation. If you have any questions or would like to RSVP, please contact Josie Smyle at jsmyle@bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC’s office at 701-223-5660.
CELEBRATE BISMARCKMANDAN Date: Wednesday, September 22, 2021 Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center 800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck Time: 11:00AM - 1:00PM Admission: $40 for Chamber EDC members $50 for General Admission Presented By:
Join the Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan Ad Hoc Committee on Wednesday, September 22nd as we celebrate local businesses and their leaders for their accomplishments within the community. At this annual award ceremony, we will honor those who have been nominated in the following categories: • • • • • • •
Granite Award Mike Fink Award for Steady Growth & Profitability Golden Eagle Award New Entrepreneur of the Year Small Business Person of the Year Young Entrepreneur of the Year Outstanding Teachers of the Year
Come along with us as we recognize our outstanding businesspeople throughout Bismarck-Mandan on Wednesday, September 22nd from 11:00am to 1:00pm at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center. Cost to attend is $40 for Chamber EDC members and $50 for General Admission. If you are interested in reserving a table, please contact Josie Smyle at jsmyle@bmcedc.com, or call 701-2236550, for more information!
20 4 Connection
CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC NEWS
IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO
protect Protect yours At Starion Insurance, we make acquiring the coverage you need easy and affordable, freeing your mind to focus on what matters most, your business. Local agents here for you.
starionbank.com Insurance products are not deposits, not FDIC insured, not insured by any federal government agency, not guaranteed by the bank, and may lose value.
Jordan Kvale
Tonja Iverson
Insurance Agent Bismarck - North 2900 North Washington 701.250.1505 jordank@starionbank.com
Insurance Agent Mandan 109 1st Street NW 701.667.1632 tonjai@starionbank.com
Connection 3 21
MEMBER NEWS | CONNECTION
BISMARCK SCHOOL QUALIFYING NORTH BOARD NAMES NEW DAKOTA FAMILIES ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS CAN RECEIVE EXTRA The Bismarck Public School Board named the Northeast HELP WITH CHILD and Northwest elementary schools at their May 24 meeting. The Northeast school is now named Silver Ranch, and CARE COSTS the Northwest is Elk Ridge. The Board’s decision marked the culmination of a naming process that first began in April with the solicitation of name submissions from the community. Bismarck Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Jason Hornbacher, presented the Board with a list of names gathered from the community. The most popular entry for the Northwest site was Elk Ridge with 117 submissions, and the most popular entry for the Northeast was Silver Ranch with 88 submissions. The Board moved to accept both of these names, noting that they are reflective of the neighborhoods where the schools are located. Both schools are currently under construction and will be open for the 2022-23 school year.
Child care is a vital and costly service for working parents in North Dakota where almost three out of every four parents of children age five and younger are in the workforce. North Dakota families who participate in the Child Care Assistance Program are benefiting from additional federal funding authorized late last year in response to the pandemic. Beginning in April (for care provided in March), the North Dakota Department of Human Services began waiving participating families’ co-payments. The program will pay the family cost-share amount. Participating families and providers have been notified by mail. CCAP is generally available to North Dakota families earning up to 60 percent of the state median income, which is $4,233 a month for a family of three. Child care assistance is paid directly to providers unless a child care provider requests payment be made to the family. Family co-payments average about $150 per month but can vary greatly. A participating family’s co-pay is based on family income and household size. CCAP provider rates are developed from a market survey and factor in the age of the child attending child care, the hours of care needed, and the type of child care setting, which can range from an approved relative to self-declared child care providers, licensed home child care, or child care centers. CCAP has made other program changes to support participating families. Typically, CCAP pays for child care provided while parents work or attend school or training. Effective March 1, 2021 through Sept. 30, 2022, CCAP will also pay for up to three months of child care provided while parents are involved in job search activities. Unemployed parents who need child care while they search for work, apply and participate in job interviews are also encouraged to apply for CCAP.
22 4 Connection
DHS is also paying CCAP providers at the maximum state rate allowed for each child based on their approved care level, whether full-time or part-time. A sliding fee schedule showing rates and family co-pay amounts is online at www. nd.gov/dhs/services/financialhelp/childcare.html.
CONNECTION | MEMBER NEWS
CHAMBER EDC ENCOURAGES MEMBERS TO COMMENT
Recently, the Chamber EDC received presentations from both Friends of the Rail Bridge (FORB) and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) regarding the future of the BismarckMandan Rail Bridge. After those presentations and much discussion, the Chamber EDC’s Board of Directors voted to disseminate information regarding the future of the Rail Bridge and encourage our members to make their voices heard as well.
First, to learn more about the future of Rail Bridge from both sides of the issues, you can visit www.bismarckmandan.com/railway-bridge. Here, we have posted information from both FORB and the BNSF regarding their positions on the issues, frequently asked questions, etc. Our hope is that you take some time to learn more about the issue in a balanced manner, right here. Then, we would encourage you to use that information and make your voice heard. You can so by submitting comments to the US Coast Guard (the lead federal agency that will ultimately issue a permit or not) by July 26, 2021. To do, that visit https://bit.ly/3iL2h1Y And finally, there will be a virtual public comment meeting on June 30, 2021 from 6:00 – 9:00 PM CDT. You can join by phone at 1-510-338-9438 (USA toll) and the access code is 182 625 0321. You can also join online at https://bit.ly/3cN3H8v
Come by our liquor superstore in Bismarck and browse endless aisles (and walk-in beer cooler) of everything liquid and delicious. Our selection is
!
This is an important issue to our community and our businesses, so we would encourage you to take the time to educate yourself and then submit your comments as outlined above. Make your voice heard!
3025 Yorktown Drive, Bismarck 701.751.7373 www.williquors.com Connection 3 23
MEMBER NEWS | CONNECTION
MDU RESOURCES LISTED ON FORTUNE 500
MDU Resources Group, Inc. (NYSE: MDU), with headquarters in Bismarck, has been listed on the prestigious 2021 Fortune 500. The Fortune 500 recognizes the 500 largest U.S. companies based on 2020 revenues. MDU Resources was ranked No. 486. “We are proud of the good work our employees do, safely providing essential products and services that are Building a Strong America,” said David L. Goodin, president and CEO of MDU Resources. “Our company’s continued growth, recognized by our listing on the Fortune 500, makes it clear that our two-platform business model of regulated energy delivery and construction materials and services is a successful formula.” MDU Resources was started in 1924 as a company serving electricity and natural gas to towns in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. Today, it is the only company headquartered in the four-state area that is on the Fortune 500 list, and it now operates in 46 states and has approximately 16,000 employees during peak construction season.
NORTH DAKOTA STATE CAPITOL TOURS RESUME The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) today announced that tours of the North Dakota State Capitol will resume on, June 1, 2021. “We are excited to resume tours of the North Dakota State Capitol, and to reopen the 18th floor to the public,” OMB Director Joe Morrissette said. “Tours of the Capitol have been suspended for over a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we resume normal activities, we are anxious to again offer this service to the public. We know it is appreciated by visitors to the Capitol at all times of the year, but especially during the summer travel season.” Morrissette added that the decision was made to suspend tours of the North Dakota State Capitol out of an abundance of caution in March 2020, and he extended his gratitude for the public’s patience and support during that time. Tours will be conducted Monday through Friday, on the hour from 9:00am – 11:00am and 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Entities wishing to request group tours may fill out the tour request form on OMB’s website. Tours will not be conducted on the weekends as the Capitol is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. It is still recommended that citizens entering the Capitol comply with the following: • Wear face coverings if they are not fully vaccinated per Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance. • Screen for their COVID-19 risk via kiosk at the main entrance. • Sanitize their hands frequently during their visit using the sanitization stations throughout the building. Citizens may stay up to date on Capitol changes at www.omb.nd.gov.
24 4 Connection
CONNECTION | MEMBER NEWS
UNIVERSITY OF MARY NURSING PROGRAM TOPS THE NATION FOR SECOND TIME IN THREE YEARS
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Mary is once again at the very top of all nursing schools across the U.S. Nursing’s national benchmarking service, Mountain Measurements, ranking University of Mary’s program No. 1 in America. The yearly report is based on the April 2020 through March 2021 Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates who took the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam. The entire University of Mary graduating class who took the licensure exam for the first time passed. The University of Mary’s prestigious nursing program has developed a trend of consistently being at, or near the top every year. This year is no exception, with Mary’s nursing program scoring the best among 945 similar programs, and No. 1 at the national level finishing first among 2,145 schools across the country.
“There are several factors that account for the high scores,” said Dr. Glenda Reemts, professor and chair of the Division of Nursing at the University of Mary. “These students are so thoroughly skill-tested before they even get to the NCLEX exam and into the workforce. Nursing faculty work with students to prepare for the exam. Our curriculum follows industry quality and safety standards, which is critical. And the CHI senior-year-free scholarship incentive is available to nursing students who maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their undergraduate years which helps set a high academic standard and provides a peace-of-mind for the nursing student.”
Nursing is a profession that requires great intelligence, motivation, but more importantly resilience. Despite the challenges placed on students and faculty with COVID-19, the University of Mary undergraduate faculty surrounded the students with positive influence, encouragement, and support to achieve another level of excellence.” “As a flagship program of the University of Mary, our goal is to sustain the pioneering leadership of our founders, the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery,” said Madler. “We are committed to the Mary legacy of preparing highly competent and compassionate nurses eager to fulfill their own caring ministry to individuals, families, and communities.”
In 1959, when the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery founded the school as Mary College, nursing was one of only two offerings, and has proudly spent the past 60 years perfecting its curriculum into one of America’s premier nursing programs today. From day one, they set the standards high and built a stellar reputation around the nursing program. Anyone interested in the University of Mary nursing program can visit www.umary.edu/nursing
Reemts, who has been at Mary for 31 years, has led the nursing program, its faculty, and students to prominence over those years. After she retires this summer, Dr. Billie Madler and Dr. Annie Gerhardt will continue Reemts’ legacy and the program’s high standards as the new associate dean of nursing and chair of undergraduate nursing, respectively. Both are award-winning teaching faculty and doctors who have nearly 50 years of nursing experience in areas including emergency and urgent care, rural health care, family practice, and providing medical service in the North Dakota National Guard. “The Mountain Measurement Report is just one achievement that indicates understanding of safe practice,” said Gerhardt, who is also a major in the North Dakota National Guard. “However, hands-on learning, direct supervision, and personal one-on-one attention provided by faculty at the University of Mary empowers and verifies each student’s ability to know and demonstrate clinically competent nursing care prior to graduation.
Connection 3 25
ASK A PRO | CONNECTION
TANYA DECKER at
DR. KREOFSKY at
ALEXANDER MABIN at
H O M E M O R TG A G E
1110 College Dr, Ste 207, Bismarck, ND 58501
500 N 8th Street, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-222-6100
Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MORTGAGE BROKER AND A MORTGAGE BANKER?
Q: I JUST FINISHED UP TREATMENT FOR MY COLON CANCER LAST MONTH AND I’M WONDERING WHEN I’M CONSIDERED A CANCER SURVIVOR?
701-220-3954
A: While both can help you obtain a
mortgage, brokers can shop multiple lenders to get you the best deal to save you more and to meet your needs. Banks are typically limited to one lender, while brokers can shop a variety of lenders at a wholesale rate, making sure you get the most bang for your buck and the best type of mortgage for you! Banks charge origination, processing and Underwriting fees-Assure Home Mortgage does not so the savings is passed on to you! We work with the top lenders in the nation and are constantly evaluating who is providing the best services and rates to give exceptional service and savings to our clients. Knowing how each lender works, we can choose one based on your specific needs, such as quick-close loans, same-day preapprovals and no-cost closings. If you are already pre-approved elsewhere, it is always a good idea to get a second opinion. Please check out our website for our promotion and get a quote today! We are your personal mortgage rate shoppers-let us get you better rates, lower closing cost and wow you with the overall savings. With Assure, you can be sure you are in good hands!
26 4 Connection
1003 Gateway Ave, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-250-0728
Q: HOW ARE IMMERSIVE WEB-BASED EXPERIENCES USED IN BUSINESS? A: The recent pandemic forced many
businesses that relied heavily on in-person visitors to move online. Web-based A: From the moment of diagnosis and for augmented reality (AR) allows your target the balance of life, an individual diagnosed audience the option to shop and expewith cancer is a considered a survivor. rience your product anywhere, any time. Family members and caregivers affected You have probably seen mainstream AR in by a person’s diagnosis are also considaction if you have ever played Pokémon Go, ered cancer survivors. Cancer survivorship taken a Snapchat face-filter selfie or tried is the experience of living with, though, out furnishings using IKEA’s app that lets and beyond cancer. Today, more people you virtually place a 3D model of a couch than ever are surviving cancer because of in your own living room. Even experiential better treatments, prevention, and early businesses that were traditionally considdetection. As a result, much more attention ered in-person destinations like national is being placed on the long-term adjustparks, campuses, or museums, can benefit ment of patients and their families to the from web-based virtual tours that provide physical, emotional, and practical impacts true-to-life 360 viewing experiences. of a cancer diagnosis. Having cancer is A key benefit to the web is viewers are not often one of the most stressful experiencrequired to download an app or sign up for es in a person’s life. In response to these needs, many clinical programs that attend an account. Removing these barriers can be especially vital as customers return in-perto the needs of patients after they comson. For example, web-based AR wayfindplete cancer treatment are called ‘surviing can direct in-person visitors to nearby vorship’ programs. The Bismarck Cancer points of interest. Once there, 3D animation Center and the surrounding areas offer and gamification can be utilized to unlock multiple support groups for survivors and their loved ones to help you through your rewards or coupons. AR wayfinding maps unmapped locations and engages your cancer journey. target audience in a whole new way. For a complete list of cancer support These are just a few of the ways web-based groups in your area, go to www.bismarckexperiences can be used to improve the cancercenter.com or call (701)-222-6100. visitor experience both online and in person.
CONNECTION | ASK A PRO
COLLIN KUDRNA at
4204 Boulder Ridge Rd, #100, Bismarck, ND 58503
701-751-3064
Q: I WANT TO BE HEALTHIER NOW AND IN THE FUTURE. CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP ME? A: Physical therapists are experts in hu-
man movement and are trained to evaluate your mobility, strength, and balance to determine any issues or challenges. A PT will give you age-appropriate recommendations based on your evaluation and can formulate a plan specific to your needs and goals, providing hands-on interventions while educating you about your body mechanics. A baseline of your health, function and movement can be established and tracked year-to-year helping you transition through each stage of life with your PT communicating and collaborating alongside the rest of your health care and wellness team. There are many benefits when you develop a long-term relationship with a PT. Here’s a sampling: • Preventative care reduces health care costs. • Identify risks and potential problems. • Manage pain. • Reduce & manage symptoms of chronic disease. • Help you stay functional through your lifespan. • Retain your independence as you age. Physical therapy will help you reach optimal health and movement for everyday living with no referral needed.
JOHN BOLLINGER at
201 W Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-557-7600
JOEL BLANCHARD, MD at
2603 E Broadway Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-323-5222
Q: WHAT’S A FUN, AFFORDABLE Q: ARE HEARING TESTS REQUIRED WAY TO SAY THANK YOU TO FOR ALL EMPLOYEES? MY EMPLOYEES THIS SUMMER? A: Baseline and annual audiograms are
required for employees who are exposed to noise levels of 85-decibels or greater We asked our employees to work harder on an 8-hour time weighted average. This than ever while having to cancel in-person requirement comes from the Occupational meetings, mixers, and Christmas parties. Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) As our workplaces and communities return Hearing Conservation Program. to normal, I believe there is no better way Employers should perform a noise level to say thank you then by bringing co-work- assessment at their worksite to determine ers and their families back together for an which employees are exposed to noise all-inclusive, night of FUN. levels of 85-decibels or greater. If the
A: Let’s face it. Last year was not very FUN.
The Larks offer two great options this summer. Fireside Office Solutions Tailgate Area tickets are only $32 a person and your employees can enjoy group style seating on our beautiful right field deck, an all-inclusive ballpark buffet for three innings, and three tabs that can be used for beer, popcorn, or inflatables.
noise level is less than this, employees do not need to be enrolled in the company’s hearing conservation program. However, companies can still provide annual audiograms to all employees as part of their benefits.
Working within a budget? No problem. The Fizzily Bleacher seats are perfect. Here your group can sit together, get a great view of the game, and for only $20 per person receive a 90 minute ballpark buffet and Larks hat. Book your employee appreciation event today by calling 701-557-7600 or emailing tickets@larksbaseball.com
Connection 3 27
MEMBER PERKS | CONNECTION SOLBERG JOINS FIRST WESTERN BANK & TRUST Heather Solberg comes to First Western Bank & Trust as a Consumer Lender in north Heather Solberg Bismarck. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Valley City State University and holds an MBA from the University of Mary. She brings over 18 years of financial industry experience with her to First Western.
NEW TEAM MEMBERS JOIN NEXUS INNOVATIONS
Nexus Innovations welcomes Leslie Pearcy, Lucas Carl, Justine Lee, Jacob Richter and Leslie Pearcy Courtney Koppinger to the Nexus team. Leslie Pearcy joins Nexus Innovations as a Business Solutions Consultant in the Bismarck office. She graduated from Minot State University with a APEX EXPANDS SURVEY Justine Lee degree in Biology. Leslie GROUP joins us from KLJ. Mike Bowley joins Justine Lee joins Apex Engineering Group Nexus Innovations as the as a Survey Technician Executive Assistant/Office in Bismarck. Before Manager in the Bismarck joining Apex, he was a Mike Bowley office. She graduated Civil Structural Designer from the University of at WorleyParsons. Mike Jacob Richter Mary with a degree holds a drafting and design degree and in Human Resources has experience in both engineering and Management. Justine construction. joins us from Bismarck State College. JLG ARCHITECTS Jacob Richter joins PROMOTES BURKE Nexus Innovations as a JACKSON TO PRINCIPAL Solutions Consultant in Jennifer Burke the Bismarck office. He Jackson is a registered Courtney Koppinger graduated from North Architect in North Dakota Dakota State University and has been a Project with a degree in Business Analytics. Jacob Jennifer Burke Jackson Manager with JLG since joins us from State Farm Insurance. 2016. She attended Courtney Koppinger joins Nexus North Dakota State University and earned Innovations as a Software Developer in her Bachelor of Mass Communications the Bismarck office. She graduated from and Bachelor of Environmental Design the University of Mary with a degree in in 2006, then her Master of Architecture Computer Information Systems. Courtney in 2007. Jackson is a JLG Board Director joins us from North Dakota Information and recipient of the firm’s Legacy Award, Technology. recognizing outstanding individuals dedicated to team empowerment and BIANCO REALTY SALES AWARDS mentorship. She is active in the volunteer OF THE MONTH community and was named to The Bianco Realty has announced their Bismarck Tribune and Prairie Magazine’s top 10 "REALTORS® of the Month" for “40 under 40.” She also serves on the May: Judy Maslowski, Darcy Fettig, Shirley board for a homeless shelter in Bismarck Thomas, Amber Sandness, Jim Jeromchek, and is pursuing an MBA in Virtuous James Jeromchek, Justin Sackman, Brenda Leadership. With strong organizational Foster, Tori Mathern and Duane Bentz. skills and the ability to problem solve in These 10 REALTORS® had the highest sales all phases of design and construction, Jackson has led several AIA design award- totals at Bianco Realty in May 2021. winning project teams.
WALKER JOINS CHI ST. ALEXIUS HEALTH AS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
CHI St. Alexius Health has hired Michelle Walker as the new Development Michelle Walker Director. Michelle’s role as Development Director will be to plan, direct, implement and evaluate all operations of CHI St. Alexius Health’s Foundation. This includes employee and annual giving campaigns, oversight of the Foundation Resource Cabinet, collaborating with donors, and more. Michelle brings to CHI St. Alexius 20+ years of background in healthcare, management, and fundraising. She has a demonstrated ability to develop relationships with community members and has extensive experience in all areas of philanthropic giving. Michelle has been very involved in the community and currently is a member of the Bismarck Optimist Club and a member of the Leadership Bismarck Mandan Alumni Association. Michelle received her Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy from North Dakota State University. In her most recent role as Associate Development Director at the Anne Carlsen Center, Michelle implemented fundraising events and strategies, cultivated relationships, and participated in a capital campaign raising millions of dollars. WEIGEL RETIRES FROM ND INSURANCE RESERVE FUND ADMINISTRATIVE
ND Insurance Reserve Fund Administrative Technical Assistant Dawn Dawn Weigel Weigel retired May 28, 2021, following 29 years of service. Weigel supported various areas within the organization, including finance, underwriting, and marketing and communications.
Share your business news with the Chamber EDC. Email press releases to Rebecca at rpelkey@bmcedc.com.
28 4 Connection
CONNECTION | MEMBER PERKS GRACE, DMD, JOINS POLISHED DENTAL Polished Dental is excited to welcome Dr. Kourtney A. Grace to their dental team. Kourtney A. Grace Dr. Kourtney was born and raised in the Bismarck-Mandan area. She is an honor graduate of Saint Mary’s Central High School and graduated Magna Cum Laude in Biology at the University of Mary. Dr. Kourtney graduated from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Dentistry in Brandenton, Florida. She began her career practicing in Chandler, Arizona but is excited to return to Bismarck and care for the community she grew up in. Dr. Kourtney enjoys spending time outside, traveling, and above all, being with her husband Patrick and their two Westie pups, Kota and Portia. Her passion for dentistry stems from providing gentle and compassionate dental care to all of her patients. She enjoys connecting with every person that comes through the door and providing treatment tailored to meet each individual’s needs.
DR. KIMBERLY HERMAN NAMED PRINCIPAL OF MYHRE ELEMENTARY Dr. Kimberly Herman has been selected as the new principal of Myhre Elementary. It was previously announced that current Myhre principal, Dr. Shawn Oban, would taking over as principal at Horizon Middle School. Dr. Herman comes to Myhre highly qualified. She taught elementary school in Arizona from 2006 through 2013, then moved to Bismarck in 2014 where she was hired by Bismarck Public Schools as an instructional coach at Grimsrud and Prairie Rose. Since 2015 she has served as assistant principal at Liberty Elementary. Dr. Herman will continue to work in her role as assistant principal at Liberty until the end of the 2020-2021 school year; BPS administration is now working to fill the vacancy that will be created by her departure.
KINARD CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY WITH TIRES PLUS Tires Plus is pleased to announce Kirk Kinard is celebrating his first year as Tires Plus North Kirk Kinard Bismarck’s location Store Manager. Kirk has been with our organization serving our automotive customers in many roles for 14 years. Kirk began his career with our organization in Minot as a lube technician. He has also worked as a tire technician, moving into various supervisory capacities and sales. In 2018 he was promoted to Assistant Store Manager at Tires Plus in South Bismarck. When the North Bismarck location opened, he served as the Assistant Store Manager and now celebrates his first year as Store Manager. Kirk has earned numerous industry specialty certifications throughout his career. He holds certifications with the Tire Industry Association as well as being Bridgestone/Firestone Procert certified.
JULY LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
Televised on Government Access, cable channel 2 & 602 HD. Broadcast on Radio Access 102.5 FM radio. Streamed online at www.freetv.org.
Tues, 6th
5:30 pm
Mandan City Commission
Wed, 7th
5:00 pm
Burleigh County Commission
Tues, 20th 1:30 pm Metropolitan Planning Org. Policy Board 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission
Thurs, 8th
4:00 pm 5:30 pm
Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority Morton County Commission*
Wed, 21st
Mon, 12th
5:15 pm 5:30 pm
Bismarck School Board Mandan Park Board*
Thurs, 22nd 8:30 am Burleigh County Commission Budget Introduction Mon, 26th 5:30 pm Mandan Planning Commission Tues, 27th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission 5:30 pm Morton County Commission*
Tues, 13th 8:00 am 5:15 pm
Burleigh County Water Resource District Bismarck City Commission
Wed, 14th
5:15 pm
Burleigh County Planning & Zoning
Thurs, 15th
9:00 am 5:15 pm
Bismarck Parking Authority Bismarck Park Board
Mon, 19th 10:00 am 5:30 pm
Metropolitan Planning Org. Technical Advisory Committee Mandan School Board
Wed, 28th
3:30 pm 5:00 pm
5:00 pm
Historic Preservation Commission Burleigh County Commission
Bismarck Planning & Zoning
Meetings are replayed several times on the Government Access channel and are available for viewing online (Watch on Demand) at www.freetv.org. * Delayed Playback
Connection 3 29
RIBBON CUTTINGS | CONNECTION Ribbon cuttings are conducted by a committee of Chamber EDC volunteers called Ambassadors. Businesses qualify for a ribbon cutting if they open, move, and remodel, are under new ownership, change their name, or offer a new product or service. To find out how you can get a free ribbon cutting from the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC, please call Ross at 701-223-5660.
KYLE HERMAN – FARMERS AGENCY Kyle Herman and team celebrate new location at 1022 E Divide Ave, Ste C in Bismarck. Phone: 701-255-3655. Member.
FRONTIER PRECISION Kevin Hellman and Dennis Kemmesat celebrate their new location at 1713 Burlington Dr in Bismarck. Phone: 701-222-2030. Member.
UPTOWNE LOFT BOUTIQUE Kalene Ell and Tammy Wahl, owners, celebrate their new location at the Kirkwood Mall, Ste 220 in Bismarck. Phone: 701-400-0939. Member.
30 4 Connection
JIMMY V'S Steven Nardello, Derek Thomas and John Legowski celebrate grand opening at 512 East Main Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 701-557-7676. Member.
THE DREAM CENTER Jim Barnhardt, founder, and team celebrate ground breaking at 1805 Park Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 701-226-4524.
SHREE BEAUTY & BROW ART Daxa Chaudhari celebrates grand opening in Kirkwood Mall. Phone: 701-805-1801.
CONNECTION | NEW MEMBERS The Chamber EDC encourages all members to do business with each other. The following companies and organizations have recently made an important investment in their business by joining the Chamber EDC. Please consider them for your professional and personal needs. To find a complete listing of Chamber EDC members, view the Member Directory online at www.bismarckmandan.com. Nardello’s 1001 West Interstate Ave. Ste 112 Bismarck, ND 58503 Steven Nardello (701) 751-2320 New York style pizzeria & sandwich. McGough Construction Co, LLC 630 1st Ave. N #4 Fargo, ND 58102 Sal Di Leo (701) 639-6282 McGough is a full-service, full-solution construction resource providing support at every level of development. We are committed to supporting client goals during each phase of a project. We aim to truly partner with our customers to facilitate successful outcomes, whether during early planning efforts, preconstruction support, facility management, construction or development services. McGough offers a range of services including: Strategic Planning, Preconstruction Services, Construction Services, Development Services, Facility Management and more. Our team members bring a wide array of skills and expertise to the table, and McGough has dedicated a specialty focus to a number of areas to foster and support optimal project outcomes Primacy Strategy Group 660 Transfer Rd St. Paul, MN 55114 Charles Kasbohm (651) 340-4848 State and Local Government Relations, Federal Government Relations, Public Affairs, Regulatory Affairs & Government Procurement, Association Management & Coalition Building, Grassroots/Grasstops Midtown Dental Bismarck 1929 N Washington St. Bismarck, ND 58503 Andrew Schmid (701) 222-1286 Located in the Northbrook, we offer routine dental care, periodontal care, cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, tooth replacement and much more.
Core Real Estate Advisors 200 E Main Ave Bismarck, ND 58501 Crystal Neumann (701) 390-1331 CORE’s agents specialize in residential, commercial & land. Committed to delivering the highest level of service to their clients and passionate about giving back to their community. Bismarck Pharmacy 1325 57th Ave NE Bismarck, ND 58503 Ricky Reyes (701) 415-7013 Inside of the Costco Warehouse. We welcome all, and you don’t need a membership to see us. Come see why our competitive prices are so hard to beat. Western ND Honor Flight PO Box 265 Bismarck, ND 58502 Jerry Saude (701) 527-4068 Western ND Honor Flight is a non-profit organization created solely to honor veterans and their sacrifices. We travel with our heros to Washington DC to visit and reflect on their memorials. Copper Dog Café 218 W Main St. Mandan, ND 58554 Mike Kennedy (701) 590-7070 Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee serves up custom, gourmet waffles and hand-crafted coffees. Located in the heart of Main St. Mandan, our renovated building is the perfect atmosphere for your family meal. HOTWORX 3001 Yorktown Dr Suite 5 Bismarck, ND 58503 Sierra Rohr (701) 590-4897 HOTWORX is a virtually instructed exercise program created for users to experience many benefits of infrared heat absorption, while completing a 30-min isometric workout or 15 min HIIT session.
Connection 3 31
Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Connection 1640 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck, ND 58503
UPCOMING CHAMBER EDC EVENTS AT THE
THURSDAYS AT THE CHAMBER EDC Date: July 29, 2021 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Patio – 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck AUGUST MEMBERSHIP MIXER: UNIVERSITY OF MARY Date: August 19, 2019 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: University of Mary – 7500 University Drive, Bismarck CHAMBER EDC SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT Date: August 20, 2021 • Time: 9:00am - 2:30pm Location: Capital City Sporting Clays – 12951 71st Ave NE, Bismarck
AT THE
THURSDAYS AT THE CHAMBER EDC Date: August 26, 2021 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Patio – 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck BRATS WITH THE BRAVE Date: September 10, 2021 • Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm Location: Raymond James Bohn Armory – 4200 Miriam Ave, Bismarck CELEBRATE BISMARCK-MANDAN Date: September 22, 2021 • Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center – 800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck