November Connection

TRAINING A HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE

Kevin

Wendy

Brian

Evan

Marnie

One of the key missions of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC (CEDC) is business advocacy. At a legislative level, topics are vetted by the Govern ment Affairs Committee (GAC). This active and informed group of CEDC volunteers explores the reasons we should support or oppose projects, ideas, and bills. It is also common that the decision is that the topic is not within our mission, so we should not take a position. If a position is to be taken, the GAC sends recommendations to the Board of Directors for formal action.

Starting in 2021, the GAC has taken an additional role at the request of Bismarck-Mandan area legislators. On a roughly quarterly basis we invite area legis lators to meet with business representatives. The intent of these meetings is to foster coordinated efforts of the Bismarck-Mandan area delegation, amplifying their voices on community wide topics and needs. Agenda items have included healthcare, energy, state budget, and the anticipated topics of the upcoming session. CEDC members voice their perspective, and legislators have embraced coordinating their efforts to best represent our community and the surrounding area.

These meetings are an example of the tremendous impact of CEDC advocacy in support of our members. Business advocacy efforts are, by nature, quiet discussions; not events that make headlines, even within CEDC publications. But they are at the heart of the value provided to our members, amplifying our voices in the same way our legislators are coordinating to amplify theirs.

It’s also important to recognize the members of the GAC (as we do the members of Local Issues Committee) for not only their time commitment, but their objectivity. This is a committee which addresses difficult topics through the lens of our members, not in their own interests, and has done so consistently over many years. Our members benefit greatly from their behind-the-scenes efforts.

At our recent Board of Directors’ meeting, CEDC has taken a position opposing the initiated measure on term limits. This measure limits only legislators and the governor, not other elected offices, to eight years. A key concern, specifically with our bi-annual legislature, is that this would shift power to unelected staff as the elected officials would not gain the experience to drive the process. Eighty percent of our current legislators have been in office less than 10 years, evidenc ing significant and healthy turnover. Many of the longer term legislators are in key leadership positions, providing stability to the body and guidance to the less seasoned members. I will close with a reminder to vote in the general election. Turnout at the 2022 primary was down, and there are key races on the ballot. Please take the time to cast an informed vote in municipal, legislative, and statewide elections to support the future of our community.

Kevin Strege, Chair

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

TRAINING A WORKFORCE:

LOCAL EDUCATORS LOOK TO FILL HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE NEEDS

By Mary Cole, Clearwater Communications

The need for healthcare workforce has become a pressing issue in the Bismarck-Mandan community. According to the “Online Job Opening Report” from North Dakota Labor Market Information, the occupation category with the most job openings in Burleigh County is “Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations” with 642 openings, with “Healthcare Support Occupations” tailing it in fourth place with 194 openings. In Morton County, “Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations” is at the top of the list with 67 openings, immediately followed by “Healthcare Support Occupations” with 47 openings.

With an eye on this pressing need, healthcare educators in the area are stepping up their efforts to prepare students for these professions and send more healthcare professionals into the Bismarck-Mandan workforce.

THE CAREER ACADEMY & TECHNICAL CENTER

Before students make their way to college medical programs, the Bismarck Public School’s Career Academy & Technical Center offers programs to help them decide their chosen field or get an early start on their higher education classes. Located on the campus of Bismarck State College (BSC), the Career Academy teaches around 1,600 students from the community’s high schools as well as home schools students.

Dale Hoerauf, director and principal of the Career Academy, emphasizes the importance of encouraging high school students to know their career options. “It allows you to explore while you’re still in high school,” he says, “If you don’t like it that’s fine, and you can do something else, but if you do, it can give you that early start.”

The medical career offerings through the Career Academy include a certified nursing assistant program as a dual-credit program through BSC; first-year and advanced Medical Careers classes, which provide an overview of the field’s options; and a Prevention & Care of Athletic Injuries class in partnership with the University of Mary.

Hoerauf says there are not exact statistics regarding the number of students who proceed from the Career Academy’s classes into the medical field, but he notes “once they go through our programs, that’s probably the career they’re going to choose.”

In fact, Hoerauf states, students as young as 16 can complete the certified nursing assistant certification through the Career Academy, and many of them work weekend or evening shifts after school.

Hoerauf sees a promising future for medical workforce. “When we built the career academy 13 years ago, we had two medical-related teachers. Now we have six medicalrelated teachers. There’s such a huge increase. We thought after [COVID-19] maybe everyone would be scared out, but the fact of the matter is, it’s had the opposite effect. It says a lot about what [young people] saw in that and the value of the medical field.”

High school students have the opportunity to take programs at the Career Academy & Technical Center to help them decide their chosen field or get an early start on their higher education classes.

Photo Credit: Bismarck Public Schools

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY

The University of Mary’s School of Health Sciences was recently renamed after Gianna Beretta Molla, who was an Italian pediatrician prior to her death in 1962 and recognized as a Catholic saint in 2004. Along with the renaming, a wide swath of new facilities have been renovated on campus for health science classes.

The newly renovated Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences features specialized classrooms for various programs, three large labs for physical therapy and occupational therapy, several clinic rooms for on-campus pro bono clinics and student assessment, dedicated life skills lab for occupational therapy, a dedicated exercise physiology lab, and large practice spaces.

Dr. Mary Dockter, PT, Ph.D., dean of the Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences, says the school’s updated facilities give students the chance to practice their skills right on campus. “We want our students to be workforceready,” she says, “as well as morally courageous and ethical leaders. The hands-on experiences on campus, in the community, and at our local healthcare facilities prepare our students well.”

The University of Mary offers health sciences programs for a wide variety of roles. The undergraduate degrees offered include biomechanics, communication sciences and disorders, exercise science, medical laboratory science, nursing, radiologic technology, and respiratory therapy. Graduate degree offerings include athletic training, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech language pathology, clinical exercise physiology, kinesiology, nursing, and bioethics.

Dockter says after students leave the University of Mary, they have great success in their careers. The school’s nursing program has one of the highest licensure pass rates for its graduates in the nation, which helps launch them directly from school into the workforce, she notes. The majority of the school’s programs boast 100% job placement upon graduation, and many of these students stay in the community. “The partnerships we have with the health providers in town, with significant scholarship support and the wide range of hands-on clinical experiences, make it an easy transition,” she says. “Our students are well-prepared to fulfil the workforce needs.”

The University of Mary offers wide variety of health science programs and has one of the highest licensure pass rates for its graduates in the nation.

Photo Credit: University of Mary

NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

Almost a decade ago, North Dakota State University (NDSU) acquired the Sanford College of Nursing in Bismarck and transformed it into a partner program between the two organizations. Currently on the Sanford Health campus, NDSU Nursing at Sanford Health has five simulation rooms, a skills lab, health assessment lab, a large library and study area, and a student lounge.

Charys Kunkel, program director for the Bismarck site, says the program and its students are at an advantage for gaining experience “because of the proximity to Sanford, students have easy access to clinicals at the hospital.”

In addition, Kunkel says students are eligible to receive scholarships from the Sanford Health Foundation Scholarship Fund, which distributed around $70,000 to students last year.

The community’s healthcare workforce issue is top of mind, says Kunkel. “There is almost a crisis situation with the workforce shortage, which has really been ongoing for almost a decade,” she says.

Enrollment numbers at NDSU have been consistent with a national drop, which Kunkel attributes to the pandemic limiting recruitment efforts.

However, to get as many students as possible into the program and active in the workforce, NDSU admits students twice per year, rather than just once. The school also offers a direct admission program to streamline the process for high school students seeking to be admitted to NDSU as prenursing majors.

Kunkel says the school still works to keep class sizes small and learning personalized. “We want to provide them with more one-on-one personal care,” she explains. “We really are advocates for them and we want them to be successful.”

Many of the NDSU Nursing at Sanford Health students are local residents, she notes. “The majority of our students are from the Bismarck-Mandan area and surrounding rural areas. “We love those students. We are so dedicated and passionate about what they’re doing.”

Many of the NDSU nursing graduates also stay in the area to work, says Kunkel. “Historically, an average number, 90% of our graduates stay in North Dakota, and about two-thirds stay at Sanford.”

Kunkel notes she sees the need for healthcare workforce only increasing. “The need for nurses is not going to subside,” she says. “As we see the role of the nurse expanding and being recognized as leaders in healthcare, I see the need for [their] voice expanding. And we’re prepared – we’re accredited nationally and by the state board of nursing. We’re prepared to help fill that need.”

Substantial scholarships from supportive donors, as well as nursing workforce incentives offered by Sanford Health to students who meet criteria, help support workforce development through students educated at NDSU School of Nursing at Sanford Health in Bismarck.

Photo Credit: Justin Eiler, NDSU

To help address the local need for doctors, the University of North Dakota (UND) School of Medicine & Health Sciences Center for Family Medicine looks to attract medical school graduates to complete their residency in Bismarck. “The founding purpose of the family medicine residency in Bismarck is to provide a training site for medical students to complete residency who will hopefully stay in the state to practice,” says Dr. Jeff Hostetter, program director for Bismarck.

CENTER FOR FAMILY MEDICINE

Hostetter’s notes there are three main demographics of students who come to the UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences Center for Family Medicine: UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences graduates, medical students from other schools who have ties to the community, and graduates from other countries who are looking to complete their training in the United States by utilizing the J-1 visa system. This program allows foreign students to obtain training in the United States and serve in a rural area of the U.S. to repay that training.

Once the students arrive in Bismarck, many of them decide to stay, Hostetter notes. “Bismarck has a very robust and high-quality health care system that provides excellent health care to patients. Once medical students are exposed to this level of healthcare and experience success, it is relatively easy to convince them to stay,” he says. “In addition to excellent training, we offer a very competitive salary in a community that has a low cost of living, is very safe, has great schools, and is overall just a very pleasant place to live.”

He adds while there are many variables, each year “about 80% of our graduates stay within a 100-mile radius of Bismarck.”

Hostetter also notes the pandemic did not greatly affect demand for the residency program. “We typically have between 1,200 and 1,500 applicants for our five residency spots every year. This number has not changed in the last five years.”

Community is a central value of Hostetter’s philosophy in training future doctors. “I want to make sure people understand it takes a community to train a good physician,” he says. “The Bismarck-Mandan community has always risen to this task in exemplary fashion. We are hopeful that we have served the community well in repayment for their support.”

UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences Center for Family Medicine typically receive 1,200 to 1,500 applications for their five residency spots every year.

Photo Credit: UND School of Medicine & Health Sciences Center for Family Medicine

BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE

Another prolific educator of health professionals looking to fill positions in the area is Bismarck State College (BSC). “We have seen a small dip in enrollments, but that is statewide, if not a nationwide trend,” says Mari Volk, dean of Health Sciences. “We have been working hard with our partners to provide incentives and to provide programming in a manner that meets the needs of nontraditional students that are working and raising families as well as the traditional learner.”

The school’s current accredited offerings include practical nursing (LPN), associate degree nursing (RN), surgical technician, medical laboratory technician (MLT), EMT, paramedic, diagnostic medical sonography-ultrasound tech, exercise science, certified nursing assistant, and certified medication assistant.

BSC offers clinical experiences in both Bismarck and Mandan, as well as financial partnerships to benefit students. “Both hospitals offer sponsorships that essentially cover the entire tuition for students in multiple healthcare programs,” says Volk.

She notes, students have had no difficulties finding jobs in the local area. “We have found that students are being recruited very aggressively and the benefits of signing on with the providers are fantastic.”

Other arrangements with BSC’s area partners keep students in the area after graduation. Many students apply with the healthcare partners, sign a commitment to work there for a set number of years, and receive a sponsorship up front that provides for their tuition. “Students are very excited about this,” Volk says. “And there are opportunities for most, if not all, of our program areas.”

Bismarck State College offers programming that meets the needs of the non-traditional students as well as the traditional learner.

Photo Credit: Bismarck State College

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Though the need for healthcare workforce in the Bismarck-Mandan area is pressing, the area’s healthcare educators are rising to the challenge with an eye for the big picture.

“I think the biggest takeaway is that our partners have needs that we can help them address,” Volk says. “We are excited to work more closely with our partners to meet their needs and build a strong workforce, which will build a stronger North Dakota with better access to healthcare.”

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Area educators are rising to the challenge to help fill the healthcare workforce in Bismarck-Mandan.

Photo Credit: University of Mary

Tell us about yourself and your role within your business.

A: I’m Dan Polk, one of the founders and CEO of Silicon Plains. My current job is as our sales manager.

SILICON PLAINS

Briefly tell us the history behind Silicon Plains and how you got started.

A: I grew tired of dealing with IT providers who couldn’t speak business. They seemed focus on the technology, not the solution. They were living in a 90s world, where faster modems and bigger monitors meant everything to them. In 2009, companies deserved technology solutions that impacted the bottom line and made them more competitive, and I knew I could provide that service. In 2021 we merged with another very similar company out of Denver, CO. Their owner is now our Chief Operating Officer and co-founder. We’re going to do some really great things.

Silicon Plains has been a Chamber EDC member since 2010.

MEMBER SINCE

Dan Polk

How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted Silicon Plains?

A: I started the company during the housing crisis, right on the heels of the oil boom. I’ve made it a point to ignore how much our cities grow or shrink. I focus on one customer at a time, growing the company as fast as possible without sacrificing quality. I’m always looking forward to the Next Big Thing for Bismarck/Mandan and I’m a huge supporter of the community.

What trends are taking place in your industry?

A: Our industry is heavily affected by merger and acquisition activity combined with an available workforce that’s shrinking at unprecedented rates. Companies are scrambling to find and keep staff. There just aren’t enough people graduating college with a true passion for technology, and it’s really hurting IT.

Have there been any monumental changes within your industry that you’ve had to deal with?

A: The uptick in merger and acquisition activity has had a huge impact on the IT service industry. Most IT business owners are now in their 40s, and very few people are starting new ones. It’s creating lots of opportunities for those of us paying attention. For those who aren’t, it’s very painful to try to compete.

What does the future Silicon Plains look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: Consolidation in the industry will lead to few to zero “One Man IT” shops. They won’t be able to work with vendors like Microsoft much longer, nor will they have the depth of skill to complete most work, like training their clients to avoid clicking on phishing e-mails. It will mean much better service for our clients, but costs will rise faster than I’d like to see. IT is going to get more expensive, but the quality will follow.

Silicon Plains became a member in 2010, why do you continue to renew?

A: BMCEDC is so good to its members. Under Wayne’s leadership and his keen eye for professional, skilled, community-focused staff we’ve never been luckier to be a member. We directly benefit from event planning to the networking and connections we make with other members. BMCEDC sets the bar very, very high for other chamber organizations.

What should other Chamber EDC members know about Silicon Plains that may assist them?

A: We are not a typical IT company. If you’re looking for a strategic IT partner, you’ve found us.

CHAMBER EDC UNVEILS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN

In mid-October,

the

group hired to complete the

Economic Development Stra tegic Plan, presented the final draft to community leaders and stakeholders.

The plan includes high-level strategies and action items that will drive the Chamber EDC’s economic development efforts into the future. The strategies include recommendations on ways to address business attraction marketing, housing, and workforce development among others.

Chamber EDC staff will now start working on implementing the recommendations and completing action items to bring the plan to reality. If you would like to learn more about the plan

contact the Chamber EDC office.

TAX DEPARTMENT RELEASES 2ND QUARTER FIGURES

In September, the North Dakota Tax Department released the 2nd quarter taxable sales and purchases figures. Overall, the State of North Dakota reported a 11.47% increase from 2nd quarter of 2021. Locally, Bismarck reported a 2% decrease between the 2nd quarter of 2021 and 2022, meanwhile, Mandan reported a 6.8% increase from the same period in 2021. Combined, Burleigh and Morton counties reported a slight 0.69% decrease. To see these figures and all the Economy at a Glance numbers go to the Chamber EDC website.

Chad Chancellor unveiled the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC's economic development strategic plan to community leaders and stakeholders in October.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OF THE MONTH

The NORTH DAKOTA CAREER BUILDERS program provides matching funds to help North Dakota businesses recruit employees and keep our talent in North Dakota.

A tool for businesses to recruit and retain talent in high-need occupations in ND, this innovative partnership provides $1 of state funds for each $1 of private-sector matching funds, up to a total of $17,000 per recipient.

Individuals can receive a scholarship on the front end, loan repayment on the back-end, or both, for their commitment to the state to fill one of the high-demand occupations. For more information on ND Career Builders, contact the Chamber EDC office.

T4 HELD IN BISMARCK

Bismarck Career Academy and Bismarck State College hosted a T4 Summit in late September. T4, which stands for Tools, Trades, Torque, and Tech, is a day-long state wide educational summit in North Dakota for students in grades 6-12. T4 introduces students to workforce skills, needs, training and networking opportunities with industry leaders and technicians. The summit included students from surrounding middle and high schools and had sessions on career opportunities like EMT, surveying, agronomy, robotics, and heavy equipment operations. T4 hosts similar summits in communities across North Dakota to give students opportunities for hands-on experience in particular occupations.

BISMARCK-MANDAN HOSTS EDND CONFERENCE

The Economic Development of North Dakota’s (EDND) Fall Conference was held at the Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center in late September.

The conference themed “Growing Together” had presentations on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Bismarck State College’s Polytechnic Mission, an update from state legisla tors and ND Department of Commerce’s workforce development efforts.

The conference was attend ed by nearly 100 economic developers, presenters, and sponsors from around the state of North Dakota. Chamber EDC Vice President Nathan Schneider serves on the EDND Board of Directors.

Bismarck-Mandan hosted the Economic Development Association of North Dakota fall conference in September.

TASTES OF CHRISTMAS IS BACK!

Get ready for Tastes of Christmas! This holiday gathering is sure to get all Chamber EDC members into the holiday “spirits!”

On Thursday, December 1st, guests will have the opportunity to network and spread holiday cheer while taste-testing holiday-inspired cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and more! Local distributors and breweries will each have their own offerings for you to try alongside free hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar just in case there’s a special holiday drink you want.

So come and sample the best drinks that BismarckMandan has to offer, all while enjoying one of BismarckMandan’s best views from the Bismarck State College National Energy Center of Excellence (4th Floor, Bavendick Stateroom). Registration will take place from 4:30pm to 5:00pm, with the event to follow from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.

Great food, drinks, holiday music, and company will make this event well worth the $25-member discounted admission. For more information contact Maggie Byrd, mbyrd@bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsors: Holiday Music Sponsor:

Social Sponsors: Capital Credit Union, Bismarck State College Appetizer Sponsors: Bismarck Cancer Center, Gate City Bank, Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

Interested in being a sponsor for this fun holiday event? Contact Sales Coordinator, Nate Brown, nbrown@bmcedc. com, to learn more today!

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STATE OF THE CITIES RETURNS THIS NOVEMBER

On Tuesday, November 8th, the Chamber EDC and members will hear from two panels representing Bismarck/Burleigh County and the Mandan/Morton County at the 2022 State of the Cities Address at the Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center in Bismarck (800 S 3rd St). Registration will be from 7:00am to 7:30am, with the event to follow from 7:30am to 9:30am.

Guests will gain insight from both Mandan and Bismarck on the challenges and successes our community has faced throughout the past year, and what we can look forward to in Bismarck-Mandan in the upcoming year. This Tuesday morning will be full of information and keep those attending “in the know” about everything going on in our community!

AGENDA:

7:00am – Registration

7:30am – Event Start/Welcome

7:35am – Bismarck/Burleigh County Panel

8:25am – 10-minute break

8:35am – Mandan/Morton County Panel

9:25am – Closing Remarks

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

Presenting Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors: Event Sponsors:

Table Sponsors: AE2S, Apex Engineering Group, Inc., Bank of North Dakota, Bismarck State College, BNC National Bank, Bravera Bank, Capital Credit Union, City of Mandan, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, First International Bank & Trust, First Western Bank & Trust, Fredrikson & Byron, P.A., Gate City Bank, HDR Engineering, Houston Engineering, JLG Architects, Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association, Mandan Parks & Recreation, McGough Construction, North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund, Northern Improvement Company, Northwest Contracting, Pearce Durick PLLC, Sanford Health, Starion Bank, United Tribes Technical College, University of Mary

State of the Cities is Tuesday, November 8th.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN ORIENTATION & ARTS AND LEISURE

ORIENTATION

The Class of 2023 is the 33rd cohort in the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program. The class of 18 started the day with a speed networking activity to get to know the people with whom they will spend the next nine months.

The class participated in a “Civic Engagement 101” panel with Becky Matthews of the Burleigh County Commission, Wade Meschke of Mandan Parks & Recreation, and Rep. Jason Dockter of District 7 in the North Dakota House of Representatives. Chamber EDC President Brian Ritter spoke on “The State of Bismarck-Mandan.” The class participated in a communications exercise to examine their communications personalities.

ARTS AND LEISURE

The class started Arts and Leisure Day at the Mandan Parks & Recreation administration office on the Raging Rivers property. Director Cole Higlin spoke on new facilities and plans in Mandan such as the tennis facility currently under construction. Bismarck Parks & Recreation District Director Kevin Klipfel spoke on the expansion of a third sheet of ice at the VFW Sports Center and the new Clairmont Family Conservation Park.

Once the leisure portion of the day was complete, the class travelled across the river to Northern Plains Dance in Bismarck for the arts portion of the day. The day’s cochairs presented a “Round Table Arts Discussion” with Hollis Mackintosh Heid of Northern Plains Dance, Molly McLain of Dakota West Arts Council, and Dawn Kopp of the Downtown Business Association of Bismarck. The day concluded with a hands-on art activity taught by Nicole Gagner of Meadowlark Mercantile.

OUR MANY THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING:

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsor: Scholarship Sponsors:

Program Sponsors: Bartlett & West, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, KLJ

Orientation co-chairs: Brenda Nagel – University of Mary Maria Walen – Comfort Inn & Suites, Mandan Jessica Wetsch – North Dakota Information Technology

Arts and Leisure co-chairs: Tyler Sander – Aetna Kelly Thomas – Mandan Parks & Recreation District Nicole Gagner – Meadowlark Mercantile

Lunch and Breakfast Sponsors: Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Assoc. – Orientation Mandan Parks & Recreation District – Arts & Leisure

Alumni

Ready to golf again?

The CEDC Indoor Golf Tournament is just the place! The Indoor Golf Tournament will take place on Friday, January 13th, 2023, at Golf Etc. (511 Airport Road, Bismarck). Don’t wait to sign up, as number of spots available is limited!

Compete in one of the following 9-hole tournament flights:

3 FLIGHT TIMES

• Flight One: 12:00pm

• Flight Two: 2:00pm

• Flight Three: 4:00pm

Entry fees include: $150 for a team of two and $75 for an individual player. Food and drinks will be provided for players, along with three big door prizes.

Don’t have a team put together? No worries! We’ll get you connected with a teammate for the tournament!

Contact Maggie Byrd, mbyrd@bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC, 701-223-5660, with any questions and to register.

General registration opens at 8:00am on November 7th at bismarckmandan.com

THANK YOU SPONSORS:

Hole in One Sponsor: Eagle Sponsor: Birdie Sponsor: Drink Food Sponsor: Sponsor: Bay Sponsors: Allstate Insurance, American Resurfacing Inc., Bismarck Motor Company, Petro-Hunt, LLC, Prairie Engineering, P.C., Starion Bank

Interested in being a part of this fun Chamber EDC event? Contact CEDC Sales Coordinator, Nate Brown, nbrown@bmcedc.com, to learn more about sponsoring this event today!

TERRY KRAFT

Indoor Golf Tournament is January 13th.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

STATE OF THE CITIES

NOV 8

NOV

Date: Tuesday, November 8

Registration: 7:00am - 7:30am Event Time: 7:30am - 9:00am

Location: Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center — 800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck

Admission: $40 for Chamber EDC members; $75 for General Admission

Join us while we hear from Burleigh/Bismarck and Morton/Mandan panel discussions as they answer hard hitting questions.

NOVEMBER MEMBERSHIP MIXER: ZORELLS JEWELRY

Date: Thursday, November 17 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Zorells Jewelry – 221 S 9th Street, Bismarck

Admission: Free

Enjoy a fun evening mixing & mingling with other Chamber EDC members.

TASTES OF CHRISTMAS

DEC 1

JAN 12

Date: Thursday, December 1

Registration: 4:30pm - 5:00pm Event Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm

Location: NECE 4th Floor of Bavendick Stateroom – BSC Campus — 1200 Schafer Street, Bismarck

Admission: $25 for Chamber EDC members; $50 for General Admission

Enjoy a festive evening with other Chamber EDC members as we taste test the latest holiday beverages.

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: TOUCHMARK ON WEST CENTURY

Date: Thursday, January 12

Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Touchmark on West Century — 1000 W Century Ave, Bismarck

Admission: Free

This mixer is a great way to meet other Chamber EDC members and kick off the new year with networking.

INDOOR GOLF TOURNAMENT

Date: Friday, January 13

Time: Flight 1 — 12:00pm; Flight 2 — 2:00pm; Flight 3 — 4:00pm

Location: Golf Etc — 511 Airport Road, Bismarck

Admission: $75 per person, $150 for 2-person team

Please arrive 30 minutes before flight time for registration

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BANK OF NORTH DAKOTA

Date: Thursday, February 2 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Bank of North Dakota — 1200 Memorial Hwy, Bismarck

Admission: Free

Come by Bank of North Dakota for an after hour event with the opportunity to chat with other Chamber EDC members.

FOCUS ON BISMARCK MANDAN

FEB 23

MAR 30

Date: Thursday, February 23

Social: 5:00pm - 6:30pm

Registration: 2:30pm - 3:00pm Event Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm

Location: Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center

Admission: $40 for Chamber EDC members; $75 for General Admission

Join us as we hear from speaker, Elliot Eisenberg, as he forecasts the 2023 economy.

BISMARCK MANDAN CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER

Date: Thursday, March 30

Location: Bismarck Event Center, Hall B

Registration: 5:30pm - 7:00pm Event Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Admission: $75 for Chamber EDC members; $125 for General Admission

This black-tie affair is one to remember. The Chamber EDC reflects on the past year and anticipates the year ahead.

REGISTER FOR THESE EVENTS AND MANY MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BISMARCKMANDAN.COM

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With the help of Shiloh alumni Cameron Fleck, owner of New Vision Security; Shiloh Christian School made sever al enhancements to campus safety and security over the summer.

“Cameron found a way to get these projects done using the resources we already had. Using our existing camera infrastructure and with the help of a few key donors, we are better able to set up systems that allow for real-time monitoring of our school. Along with an enhanced camera system; we also improved traffic safety in our small park ing lot, implemented a new visitor management system, and installed air quality detection sensors throughout the school. All of this has made our school safer for students, teachers, and staff,” explains Todd Benson, Shiloh’s Superintendent.

A few details of the summer projects include:

• Exterior cameras

• Interior cameras

• Lockdown capabilities

• Visitor management

• Air quality detection sensors

“As a Shiloh alum, I want the best for the future of Shiloh Christian School. I am thrilled that I was given the opportu nity to help make the school a safer environment. With the updated technology, along with Shiloh leadership’s careful planning, many distractions and crimes can be prevented and the learning environment can be improved,” says Cameron Fleck, NewVision Security Owner.

Sanford Health recently completed the ren ovation of the Sanford Family Birth Center, located on the fifth floor of Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck. This renovation follows the opening of a new neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on the sixth floor of Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck that opened in July 2020.

Sanford’s new NICU in Bismarck is the only NICU in the region with private rooms, allow ing parents and babies to stay in the same room. It also offers NicView, a new 24/7 video streaming service that helps families stay connected and watch their baby through a webcam in the baby’s crib. The NicView ser vice was made possible through the Sanford Health Foundation.

“Since 2017, Sanford Bismarck has welcomed more than 7,000 babies,” said Maggie Seamands, executive director of inpatient services. “Every element of the newly renovated Family Birth Center has been uniquely designed to help make the experience as comfortable as possible for our patients and their families.”

Sanford Health wraps up renovations to their Sanford Family Birth Center.

Glik’s, the 14th oldest retailer in the United States, announced today that the company is celebrating its 125th Year Anniversary the week of October 3rd9th, 2022.

To say thank you to their customers, the company released a video celebrating their 125th year in business on YouTube.

“Our 125th Anniversary is a dream come true! As a young child I gained a passion for the business from my father who talk ed almost every night about his exciting day at Glik’s. At a young age, it was a gift to know what business path I wanted to pursue,” said President/CEO Jeff Glik.

“While I haven't been around for all 125 years of our history, joining the family business has been my dream since I was a child. I didn't answer "fireman" or "astronaut" when asked ‘what do you want to be when you grow up?’ I always answered ‘I want to be a buyer at Glik's.’ Fast forward many years and today, I feel an immense gratitude for being able to join this business, family by my side.” Said Jeremy Glik, Women’s Buyer.

“I am incredibly honored to be a part of the 5th generation to work in the family business alongside my cousin and each of our fathers. Here at Glik’s everyone is a part of the family, and we have a great team that is ready to take this company far beyond 125 years.” Said Elliot Glik, Young Men’s Buyer.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS), only 25% of all businesses ever make it past 15 years. Even more rare is to see a family business that continues to thrive. Glik’s has defied all the odds as their 5th generation family members joined the company in 2020 and 2021.

“Less than 3% of fourth generation businesses survive. Yes, a 97% chance of failure. Well, the fourth generation, and now the fifth generation join the great people at Glik’s to ‘beat the odds’. Our company is full of energy, excitement, and passion and we are excited to celebrate 125 years and many more down the road,” said Jeff Glik.

The Glik family grown the company from a horse drawn wagon, to one of the first strip mall stores, to over 70 brick and mortar locations as well as an online store.

“Over my last 40 years I have seen so much change in our business and being able to change with the trends has been exciting. Our business has grown because we have been flexible within our core business,” Jim Glik, Vice President and 4th generation family member, said.

Glik's recently celebrated their 125th Anniversary.

BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE ENROLLMENT UP 6.26 PERCENT; LARGEST INCREASE IN NDUS

Bismarck State College has maintained its position as the third largest college in the North Dakota University System (NDUS) with 3,771 students enrolled this fall – up 222 stu dents over last year. BSC’s 6.26% enrollment increase is the highest percentage increase of the 11 NDUS institutions.

“These enrollment numbers are exciting,” says BSC Pres ident Doug Jensen. “What this shows us is that students are seeing the value of our polytechnic education model and how it benefits them. High-demand career pathways, hands-on learning, great faculty, affordable tuition and new degree programs mean BSC students have more options now than ever before.”

BSC added 24 new programs this year as the result of feedback from the college’s Business and Industry Lead ership Teams (BILTs) including Finance and Mechatronics Engineering Technology bachelor’s degrees, an Exercise and Sports Studies associate of applied science degree, a Diesel Technology certificate and multiple others.

“This isn’t just a win for BSC, it’s a win for workforce, com munity and economic development,” says Jensen.

For the first time, BSC has more part-time than full-time students enrolled for fall with part-time making up 51.71% of the student body.

“We find that when unemployment is low and wages are strong, students will pursue an education on a part-time basis and keep their good-paying jobs,” says BSC Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Dan Leingang. “We can tailor an education plan to help them meet their academic goals while maintaining their employment.”

The increase in BSC’s part-time enrollment is a reflection of both a strong job market and an increase in Early Entry/ Dual Credit students. This fall, 1,015 high school students in North and South Dakota are enrolled in classes through BSC that provide them with both high school and college credit. This is a 46% increase over last year.

While the NDUS uses the 4th week enrollment number as an official count, BSC sees enrollment increases through out the semester due to more than 50 start dates offered for block classes.

“Flexible start dates are perfect for individuals who are balancing employment and their education simultaneous ly. Students can take block-style courses that allow them to take one or two 8-week classes at a time, and then move on to the next courses in their degree,” says Leingang.

The BSC programs with the highest enrollment increase this fall are Diagnostic Medical Sonography (47%), Carpen try (40%), Security & Hacking (33%) and Agriculture Indus try & Technology (28%). Other programs with significant increases include Surgical Technology, Medical Laboratory Technician, Criminal Justice, Electric Power Technology and Web Page Development & Design. Also, more than 900 students are completing their associate degree re quirements in various majors to transfer to a four-year institution.

NDAREC CELEBRATES COMPLETION OF LINEWORKER TRAINING CENTER, RENOVATED HEADQUARTERS BUILDING

The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooper atives (NDAREC) will unveil the new, 26,337-square-foot Lineworker Training Center and NDAREC headquarters facility at a grand reopening event on Friday, Oct. 14, at NDAREC's Mandan campus.

“The cooperative difference will be on full display,” says Josh Kramer, NDAREC general manager and executive vice president. “The new Lineworker Training Center stands as a testament of the electric cooperative commit ment to our current and future workforce, to meeting the needs of our industry and, above all, powering the lives of our members and the communities we serve.”

The newly constructed 26,337-square-foot Lineworker Training Center will provide enhanced, year-round training for students of Bismarck State College’s (BSC) linework er program and the electric cooperative workforce. The facility boasts an 18,000-square-foot indoor training arena and 50-foot walls with 44-foot ceiling clearance, providing opportunities for lineworkers and students to practice skills required for the construction and maintenance of overhead and underground electrical infrastructure.

Two classrooms for instruction and a simulator room for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training are also includ ed in the facility. Owned by NDAREC and its members, the training center is leased by BSC to offer the lineworker program. Since 1970, this public-private partnership has trained more than 1,700 skilled apprentice lineworkers.

NDAREC’s member-cooperatives provided critical support for the training center, and a $4 million grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) covered about 70% of the total project costs.

“North Dakota’s electric cooperatives have doubled down on their commitment to improving the quality of life of the people they serve by reinvesting in this critical workforce,” Kramer says.

The renovated NDAREC headquarters facility was de signed to meet the future needs of North Dakota’s electric cooperatives. A major highlight of the building is the Co operative Center, which offers flexible education, training and meeting spaces with improved technology. Adorned with floor-to-ceiling artwork, video monitors and displays, the Cooperative Center tells the story of North Dakota’s electric cooperatives and shares the cooperative princi ples and values that guide their work. Two electric vehicle charging stations have also been installed for future use.

“For more than 80 years, North Dakota’s electric cooper atives have evolved to meet the needs of their members. These investments show that, as cooperatives, we are focused on the future and ready to meet the challenges ahead for our industry,” Kramer says.

“And, as we celebrate National Co-op Month in October, cooperative principle No. 6 — cooperation among coop eratives — is a guiding reminder that, together, we can accomplish great things. The cooperative spirit is alive and well.”

DAKCU NAMED AMONG TOP 12 TRADE ASSOCIATION WEBSITES

Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) was recently named as one of the Top 12 Trade Association Websites in 2022 by Personify. In their announcement, Personify ranked DakCU as #8 on their list of “Top 12,” citing the association as an example to emulate while promoting and facilitating education for association members.

“The best way to get your audience involved is to spotlight upcoming events, either on the homepage or through a dedicated events page. The Dakota Credit Union Associ ation has done a great job of calling out upcoming events on a section of their homepage, as well as a dedicated space on the top navigation,” the announcement said.

“We often talk about how our association is working to serve our members – but it’s certainly nice when it’s noticed outside of our own office,” stated Jeff Olson, DakCU Presi dent/CEO. “Congrats to the DakCU team for maintaining a top-notch website and making sure our members have the information they want and need right at their fingertips,” he added.

With offices in Atlanta, Austin, Toronto, and Washington, Personify partners with associations, chambers of com merce, charities, event organizers, health and wellness fa cilities, educational institutions, and other purpose-driven organizations to help them manage and grow their com munities. Personify serves more than 30,000 organizations, with 25 percent of the U.S. population interacting with their platform.

Other organizations that made the “Top 12” list included:

• American Grassfed; Community Development Center of Maryland;

• Associated Industries of Texas;

• Ohio Children’s Alliance;

• Florida Trust for Historic Preservation;

• Massachusetts Pharmacy Association;

• Cincinnati Home Builders Association;

• Michigan Association of Ambulance Services;

• Southeast Concrete Masonry;

• Florida Senior Living Association, and

• Arizona Chapter of General Contractors of America.

5TH MANDAN BUSINESS PITCH CHALLENGE ANNOUNCED FOR 2023

Entries are open for Mandan’s fifth Business Pitch Chal lenge scheduled for March 23, 2023. Prizes include the chance to be eligible for up to a $10,000 forgivable loan from the Mandan Growth Fund plus other cash awards, services and merchandise useful to new businesses. The competition overview, prize list and application are posted at www.cityofmandan.com/businesspitch.

The Mandan Tomorrow - Economic Opportunity and Prosperity Committee is hosting the challenge to assist prospective and start-up businesses in fine-tuning ideas and plans to secure investment, financing and other support needed to advance businesses from concept to launch, form early stage to success and profitability.

Coordinators of the Pitch Challenge are City of Mandan Business Development, the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC and North Dakota Small Business Development Centers. Organizers want to help inspire and support a culture of entrepreneurism.

Winners of prior contests are Bubbles and Brews ND, 2022; Letter the Lawn, 2021; Latidot Scoop and Gift Shop, 2019; and Nordic Steel Building Systems, 2018. Other finalists have also gone on to open and expand businesses in Mandan.

Prize donors include Starion Bank, Security First Bank, Gate City Bank, First International Bank and Trust, Townsquare Media, Goodhart and Associates, Haga Kommer, Kelsch Ruff Kranda & Ludwig Law Firm, and the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC.

CORINA at

KEVIN DVORAK

at

500 N 8th Street, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-222-6100

Q: WHAT CAN I EXPECT ONCE MY RADIATION TREATMENT AT BISMARCK CANCER CENTER IS COMPLETED?

A: The Bismarck Cancer Center supports you during all parts of your cancer journey, during radiation treatment, and through survivorship. Our survivorship nurses pro vide tools to help with communication and care coordination after treatment ends. Upon completion of treatment, individ uals meet with a survivorship nurse who provides a comprehensive follow-up and a survivorship care map individualized for each patient. The plan includes a treat ment summary, recommended follow-up schedule, common side effects of the disease and treatments, a description of what to look for regarding re-occurrence, a chronological list of events in their can cer journey, and various support systems within the community. The role of the survivorship nurse is to focus on healthy living, and a healthy lifestyle after cancer treatment is completed and is offered as long as needed.

711 Riverwood Dr, Ste 2, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-222-8349

Q: HOW DOES THE 40% ND INCOME TAX CREDIT FOR GIFTS TO QUALIFIED ND ENDOWMENT FUNDS WORK?

A: When you make a gift to a qualified ND endowment fund, you can receive a federal income tax deduction AND a ND income tax CREDIT, which goes directly against your ND income tax owed. This generous incentive helps keep charitable dollars in North Dakota where they can continue to improve our quality of life.

As an individual, you must make a mini mum of a $5,000 gift to one qualified ND endowment to receive the credit. If you are able to itemize deductions on your federal income tax, you can deduct $3,000 of that gift as a charitable gift and you can claim $2,000 (40%) of the gift directly against your ND income tax due.

If you give from your business, there is no minimum gift required. The credit is limit ed to $10,000 per taxpayer, which equates to a $25,000 gift ($50,000 gift for a couple filing jointly.)

Please contact NDCF if you have questions or go to www.NDCF.net/40

As always, consult your tax advisor for ad vice regarding your particular situation.

4204 Boulder Ridge Rd, #100, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-751-3064

Q: IF I’M FEELING BETTER AFTER ONE OR TWO PHYSICAL THERAPY APPOINTMENTS DO I REALLY NEED TO FINISH MY PHYSICAL THERAPY COURSE OF CARE?

A: Once you have begun your physical therapy course of care it is important to communicate with your therapist before you make a decision to stop your thera py if you are feeling better. You and your physical therapist can review the goals that you established together at the beginning of your treatment in order to maximize the benefit from your treatment.

Commitment to your appointments and consistency with your home program is paramount to a successful outcome. Each appointment you have helps your physical therapist to identify changes throughout your course of care and allows for adjust ments to that plan when you are ready. Sticking with your physical therapy and finishing it through to the end will help you avoid any setbacks, regain function sooner and prevent the injury/pain from returning in the future. We want to see you get back to doing the things in life that bring you joy! There is no referral needed to access qual ity physical therapy. See your Movement Specialist today! To learn more about Op timum Therapies visit www.optimumthera pies.com or call (701)751-3064 to schedule.

KAITLYN MACK at

SALLY CHERNENKO at

DAVID SAXON, MD at

201 W Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-557-7600

Q: HOW DO I MAINTAIN OUR COMPANY CULTURE WITH REMOTE EMPLOYEES?

A: Since the pandemic, many companies have shifted to a remote or hybrid work environment, allowing employees to work remotely and/or in-person throughout the work week. This shift has caused companies to evaluate their company culture in order to maintain and support new and existing employees.

This past year we transitioned three fulltime employees to remote positions. It’s been a learning curve for our entire team, but we’ve found that communication, trust and employee feedback have become crit ical components when building our remote work culture.

Communication. Regularly scheduled de partment meetings and employee 1-on-1’s allow remote employees to stay connect ed. Meetings are a time for employees to provide updates, discuss roadblocks, and for department leaders to communicate expectations and goals.

Trust. Allow your remote employees space to do their work, by trusting them. Focus on the output of your employees versus the amount of time they are working.

Employee Feedback. Conduct monthly or quarterly surveys to gather insight from BOTH remote and in-person employees. Ask questions about processes, obstacles and organization. This feedback will help you know what is and isn’t working for your team.

109 N 4th Street, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-751-1698

Q: DO YOU OFFER INTERACTIVE ART ACTIVITIES FOR THE COMMUNITY?

A: Yes! The Capital Gallery now offers en richment painting classes for non-artists!

It started in April when we began part nering with a number of local charitable organizations in a community outreach program offering free “art for wellbeing” activities for children and adults in crisis

“Painting With Sally” launched in Medora over the 2022 summer season where we had the pleasure of serving more than 200 guests who created their own canvas paintings in guided classes.

In October, we began accepting bookings for private parties for individuals or orga nizations here at the Bismarck gallery. The events are two-hour, guided workshops fro non-artists formatted as “Bob Ross” style paint-alongs. Please call the gallery to book your event.

In the works is an after-school “arts and cul ture” program for kids. Please stay tuned for future announcements on this!

The Capital Gallery Society is a nonprofit entity dedicated to “Celebrating History, Art, and Culture!” We invite you to visit our website, www.TheCapitalGallery.com or better yet, stop in at 109 N. 4th Street in downtown Bismarck or at Medora in the Harold Schafer Heritage Center.

2603 E Broadway Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-323-5222

Q: WHAT IS FROSTBITE, AND HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED?

A: Frostbite happens when an appendage (ears, nose, fingers or toes) drops below freezing point (32 degrees Fahrenheit), causing cellular damage and eventually tissue loss. Prevention is simply a matter of being prepared for the weather. Dress appropriately for cold temperatures by wearing multiple layers, gloves, thick socks, boots and face and head protection.

If a body part becomes numb or tingly, you must act quickly. Warm that part by getting inside. Don’t rub frostbitten skin or expose it to direct dry heat. You may sub merge the affected area in warm (not hot) water for 20 to 30 minutes if necessary.

HELLING RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY FOR THE 2022 NATA FUTURE LEADER AWARD

Shae Helling of Bismarck Aero Center, has been awarded the 2022 Future Leader Award from the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). He is the current Director of FBO Operations and Marketing for Bismarck Aero Center and has been with the company for 10 years.

The NATA Future Leader Award recognizes an individual who has shown outstanding promise, passion, and professionalism within the general aviation community. Helling is a team builder who fosters a positive organizational culture for his staff. When morale was low during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, he improved employee morale through leading by example. Helling took the time to learn the technical aspects of each position and joined his team in putting in the long hours required during this time.

Helling will be attending the 2022 Aviation Business Conference in Miami, FL this November to accept this award.

CAPITAL CREDIT UNION PROMOTES NELSON

Andrew Nelson was recently promoted to assistant branch manager at Capital Credit Union’s South Branch in Bismarck. In this role, he will be responsible for overall branch operations as well as consumer lending including auto, recreational vehicle and home equity loans, delivery of deposit products such as money market accounts and certificates of deposit, and actively soliciting, promoting, and servicing credit union products and services.

Nelson majored in business administration at Bismarck State College. He has been with Capital Credit Union since 2020, most recently as a financial services representative at the South Branch in Bismarck.

BIANCO REALTY SALES AWARDS

Bianco Realty has announced their top 10 REALTORS® for September: Darcy Fettig, Shirley Thomas, Amber Sandness, Tori Meyer, Judy Maslowski, Brenda Foster, Greg Gerhart, Stephanie Stevens, Kyle Niess & Heidi Stein. These 10 REALTORS® had the highest sales totals at Bianco Realty in September 2022.

DEMKE ATTENDS NATIONAL CONFERENCES

Executive Director of North Dakota’s Gateway to Science (NDGTS) Beth Demke recently attended two national meetings for STEM education professionals.

The NASA STEM Better Together 2022: Convene, Connect, Collaborate occurred August 29 through September 1 in Hampton VA. Demke represented NDGTS and its grant project to engage rural tribal families in North Dakota with NASA space tech. The conference included a tour of Langley Research Center (LaRC), the oldest of NASA's field centers that directly borders Langley Air Force Base. LaRC has focused primarily on aeronautical research, but has also tested space hardware such as the Apollo Lunar Module.

The Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) held its annual meeting in Pittsburgh PA September 1215. ASTC is a professional membership organization with a vision of increased understanding of and engagement with science and technology among all people and a mission to champion and support science and technology centers and museums and the entire science engagement field. The ASTC annual conference is one of the premier annual events for science engagement professionals and leaders in science and technology centers and museums as well as allied organizations across North America and around the world. Demke presented a session at the conference entitled Engaging Your Community on Difficult Topics: Lessons from Communities for Immunity. Her presentation shared NDGTS’s partnership with the North Dakota Department of Health to improve vaccine confidence through hands-on educational modules.

The North Dakota Women’s Business Center’s (NDWBC) Board of Directors announces the appointment of Christy Dauer as the organization’s next Executive Director.

Dauer’s nearly 20 years of experience working in or consulting with small businesses positions her as an exceptional leader for the organization.

Dauer received her BS in Business Administration from North Dakota State University and is an active member of the Fargo-Moorhead community. She started her relationship with the NDWBC as a volunteer. In 2019, she moved from her corporate roots to the non-profit sector and opened the NDWBC’s Eastern North Dakota Small Business Administration Program.

Prior to being named Executive Director, Dauer was the Senior Program Director at NDWBC, providing oversight of all client services and programming. She was instrumental in establishing NDWBC’s certified business coach program, the development of NDWBC’s women’s business leadership program and went viral with the popular Strong Women, Strong Coffee live programming.

NORGAARD JOINS DCN AS INTERN

Adeline Norgaard has joined Dakota Carrier Network as an intern in the Information Systems department.

Norgaard is a sophomore at the University of Mary in Bismarck, N.D., majoring in computer information systems with a minor in cybersecurity administration. During the internship, she will work in a variety of areas within DCN’s IS department including cloud services, application development, information security, and more.

She is 2021 graduate of Tioga Public Schools. As a student there, Norgaard qualified for the state science fair four times, the International Science and Engineering Fair three times, and was active with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic teams. She is the daughter of Chris and Jenny Norgaard.

DAUER NAMED NDWBC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Shae Helling

Christy Dauer

Andrew Nelson

Adeline Norgaard

BREMER BANK NAMES JESSIE JOHNSON BISMARCK MARKET PRESIDENT

Bremer Bank is thrilled to announce Jessie Johnson has taken on the title of market president in Bismarck. In this role, Johnson will oversee day-to-day activities working with her team and the community to help customers and staff reach their goals. She joined Bremer earlier this year as a business banking relationship manager. Johnson brings more than 18 years of diversified banking and financial institution experience to the organization, most recently serving as the executive vice president of Plains Commerce Bank.

Johnson is passionate about the Bismarck community and will utilize her diverse background in banking, finance and management to contribute to the successful leadership of Bremer’s Bismarck branch. Johnson is the founder of the Midwest Autism Association, sits on the board of The Capital Gallery and serves on the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) at Horizon Middle School.

SANDERSON NAMED DAKOTA TESOL ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

Bismarck Public Schools congratulates Wendy Sanderson, English Learner Program Coordinator, for being named the Dakota TESOL (Teachers of English to Students Learning Other Languages) Administrator of the Year.

The Dakota TESOL Administrator of the Year award is given to an individual nominated by Dakota TESOL members for demonstrating recent contributions and support for English Learners in the classroom and community.

Mrs. Sanderson began teaching in the English Learner (EL) Program at Bismarck Public Schools over 17 years ago, and has since become the EL Program Coordinator. The EL Program has seen a substantial expansion over the past several years, with more than 80 languages currently being spoken in Bismarck Public Schools. The recognition from Dakota TESOL is especially significant, since Mrs. Sanderson will be retiring at the end of this year.

HELBLING AND KLEINJAN JOIN TERRY J KRAFT AGENCY, INC

The Terry J Kraft Agency, Inc is pleased to welcome Niki Helbling - Customer Service Rep, and Jordan Kleinjan - Sales Specialist, to our team. Niki grew up in Mandan, stays busy with her two sons, and brings her enthusiasm and excellent customer service skills to our Agency. She handles client interactions and assists with all facets of our business.

Jordan is a Bismarck native who taught high school Social Studies for several years before adding his exceptional talents to our Sales Team. His natural abilities and innate skills make him invaluable as an advisor to our clients.

NOVEMBER LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

Provided on Government Access cable channels 2 & 602HD FreeTV.org, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV Radio Access 102.5FM and RadioAccess.org

Tues, 1st 4:00 pm Mandan City Commission

Wed, 2nd 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission

Thurs, 3rd 5:00 pm Bismarck Board of Adjustment *

Mon, 7th 5:30 pm Mandan School Board

Tues, 8th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 9th 8:00 am Burleigh Water Resource District * 5:15 pm Burleigh Planning & Zoning

Thurs, 10th 9:00 am Bismarck Parking Authority *

4:00 pm Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority *

Mon, 14th 10:00 am Met. Planning Org. – Tech Advisory Comte. *

5:15 pm Bismarck School Board 5:30 pm Mandan Park Board *

Tues, 15th 1:30 pm Met. Planning Org. – Policy Board * 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

Wed, 16th 3:00 pm Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission * 5:00 pm Bismarck Planning & Zoning

Thurs, 17th 5:15 pm Bismarck Park Board

Mon, 21st 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission 5:30 pm Mandan School Board *

Tues, 22nd 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Mon, 28th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board 5:30 pm Mandan Planning & Zoning *

Meetings are replayed on Government Access channels and are archived online at FreeTV.org

* Not available on Radio Access

Jessie Johnson

Niki Helbling

Jordan Kleinjan

North Dakota League of Cities

410 E Front Ave

Bismarck, ND 58504

(701) 223-3518

Matt Gardner

The North Dakota League of Cities has served as a key resource for cities and park districts since the early 1900s. They recognized the importance of joining together to speak as one voice.

Edward Jones -Brad Blazek

1310 E Main Street, Ste B Mandan, ND 58554

(701) 663-1121

Your financial goals deserve a customized plan. We specialize in providing personal service that's tailored to your financial needs. Financial Planning | Investments | Life & LTC Insurance

Dakota Business Lending

PO Box 7187

Bismarck, ND 58507

(701) 364-0197

Roxi Pfliiger

We provided creative financing options for all stages of business - from start up to major expansions. Founded in 1982, DBL serves businesses in ND, MT and western MN.

A L Wagner Family Chiropractic PC

4719 Shelburne Street, Ste 2 Bismarck, ND 58503

(701) 557-7455

Ashley Wagner

A L. Wagner Family Chiropractic is a family-focused practice, where Dr. Wagner takes care of families, with a specialty in pediatric care. We are in-network with most major health insurers

Lewis & Clark Development Group

200 1st Ave NW, Ste 100 Mandan, ND 58554

(701) 255-7228

Brent Ekstrom

Lewis & Clark Development Group is a non-profit with the mission of providing affordable housing and development opportunities to revitalize communities and improve the standard of living and quality of life across North Dakota

Love and Care, Inc. Home Health Care

1925 Lovett Ave, Ste 9 Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 751-1490

Christine Shepherd

Love & Care, Inc is your trusted home care provider in Bismarck, ND, specializing in elderly care. We offer professional and reliable home health care services.

Bisman Community Food Coop

711 E Sweet Ave Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 751-3119

Shirley Reese

The Bisman Community Food Coop is a community owned store that specializes in giving North Dakota’s farmers, ranchers, and producers a space to sell their products. No membership is needed to shop.

Titan Machinery Mandan

2123 Memorial Hwy Mandan, ND 58554 (701) 663-7505

Mark Wagner

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.

Bismarck

1640 Burnt Boat Drive

Bismarck, ND 58503

UPCOMING CHAMBER EDC EVENTS

STATE OF THE CITIES

Date: November 8, 2022 • Registration: 7:00am - 7:30am Event Time: 7:30am - 9:00am Location: Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center – 800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck

NOVEMBER MEMBERSHIP MIXER: ZORELLS JEWELRY

Date: November 17, 2022 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Zorells Jewelry – 221 S 9th Street, Bismarck

TASTES OF CHRISTMAS BY THE CHAMBER EDC

Date: December 1, 2022 • Registration: 4:30pm • Event Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm Location: BSC - NECE (4th Floor Bavendick Stateroom) – 1200 Schafer St, Bismarck

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: TOUCHMARK ON WEST CENTURY

Date: January 12, 2023 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Touchmark on West Century – 1000 W Century Ave, Bismarck