Billings Business June 2016

FIVE MINUTES WITH

WENDY MILLS

ASPEN VIEW SENIOR LIVING

SPECIAL REPORT

MONTANA ENERGY QUARTERLY: BAKKEN CRUDE EXPORTED TO EUROPE

JUNE 2016

THE RIGHT CUT New CNC gasket cutting machine boosts productivity at Flowmark/High Tech

Billings Business 401 N. Broadway Billings, MT 59101-1242

CONTENTS June 2016

An indispensable business resource

On the Cover

FEATURES

Chad Rolison, right, and Shane Rekdal of FlowMark/HighTech, say the company’s new CNCcontrolled gasket cutter has improved efficiency, accuracy.

The Right Cut................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Photo by CASEY PAGE/ Gazette Staff

Nate Schnase’s business offers custom digital design, 3-D printing, Page 14

A new gasket cutter at a FlowMark/HighTech, boosts productivity and improves accuracy at a Billings company

Special report: Montana Energy Review............................................................................................... 18

The end of a ban on oil exports ushers in an era in which oil from the Bakken formation has been shipped to Europe for processing COLUMNS

Economic Development................................................................................................................................................ 10 Brandon Berger - SBA loan program provides essential startup capital for business

Sales Moves................................................................................................................................................................................ 22 Jeffery Gitomer - Relationships are essential in sales, and life

Better Business...................................................................................................................................................................... 40 Veronica Craker - Make sure your advertising doesn’t make promises you can’t deliver

Legal Briefing............................................................................................................................................................................ 41 Eric Nord - New Montana law regulates crowdfunding

24 Hour Emergency Flood & Fire Restoration Services Commercial & Residential

Flood or Fire, we will restore your property from beginning to end.

Complete Reconstruction

BILLINGS BUSINESS EVERY MONTH

From the Editor..............................................................................................................................................................................4 By the numbers.............................................................................................................................................................................5 The local economy at a glance

Chamber News......................................................................................................................................................................... 11 John Brewer - Oklahoma City trip can help Billings aspire to greatness

Five Minutes with................................................................................................................................................................. 12

Licensed • Bonded • Insured Preferred by Major Insurance Companies.

406-628-0178

—24 hour contact line—

www.alphaomegapros.com

Wendy Mills - Aspen View Senior Living

Business Briefs........................................................................................................................................................................42 Success Stories...................................................................................................................................................................... 43 The Listings.................................................................................................................................................................................. 44

Billings Business is mailed each month to area business owners, managers and decision makers for $19.95 per year. To subscribe, please send payment, name, business name, mailing address and phone number to:

Billings Business 401 North Broadway Wendy Mills of Aspen View Senior Living helps residents knit hats for babies, Page 12

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June 2016

Billings, MT 59101

June 2016

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the editor

JUNE 2016 • VOLUME 22 • NUMBER 8

B ILLINGS REAL ESTATE MARKET PROVING TO BE RESILIENT A far-ranging analysis by the Washington Post shows that the nation’s housing market has largely recovered since a meltdown that sparked the Great Recession.

Not surprisingly, the recovery has been extremely uneven. Many markets are still hungover from the crisis that resulted in about 5 million homes lost to foreclosure between 2008 and 2014.

The Post’s researchers analyzed trends in home prices for 19,000 Zip codes between 2004 and 2015.

The worst performing markets have experienced price declines of 10 percent to 75 percent during that period. The best performing markets have seen prices climb from 40 percent to 188 percent during that period.

Here are a few examples chosen from the Post’s database: If you owned a home in Stockton, Calif., one community hit especially hard in the housing crisis, your home today would be worth $49,000 less than it was in 2004, a decline of 24 percent.

You may recall that Stockton was often mentioned as ground zero for the foreclosure crisis, with one in every 67 homes in foreclosure during 2012.

Homes located within a Zip code for Henderson, Nev., a suburb of Las Vegas, showed a decline of $66,469, or 15 percent.

By contrast, Montana markets fared much better, proving the adage that local real estate markets vary significantly and rarely follow a national trend.

In the Billings 59101 Zip code, prices increased

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June 2016

by 52 percent, or an average of $66,152, between 2004 and 2015, with the median price at $192,853.

In the 59105 Zip code, prices are up 45 percent, a gain of $73,397. The median price is $235,175.

In Bozeman’s 59718 Zip code, prices climbed by $72,578, a 37 percent increase, with a median price of $301,275.

In the Flathead Valley, one Montana market most affected by foreclosures, housing prices showed more modest gains. In Whitefish, prices gained 27 percent, or $59,345, for a median value of $307,685. Kalispell’s prices increase by 38 percent, or $59,345, for a median price of $217,612.

If you’re a long-time Montana homeowner, you’re probably breathing easier knowing that housing prices have proven to be resilient as the housing crisis continues to fade into the rearview mirror.

Most market indicators in Billings continue to be positive. In fact, last September Billings ranked as one of the nation’s top real estate markets for sellers, based on a nationwide survey of multiple listing services.

According to statistics compiled by Realtor Howard Sumner for April, pending sales and closed sales are all running ahead of where they were last year.

The median price for a Billings home held steady at $229,000.

Today, eight years after the housing crisis began to spread like cancer, speculators in those once hot real estate markets like Stockton and Las Vegas continue to feel humbled. Sometimes slow and steady wins the race.

mike gulledge tom howard COPY EDITOR chris jorgensen GENERAL MANAGER dave worstell PUBLISHER

EDITOR

SALES

ryan brosseau shelli scott ADVERTISING SALES karen anderson, milt lang, arcadea scott ADVERTISING COORDINATOR linsay foley ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

SUBSCRIPTIONS Billings Business is mailed each month to area business owners, managers and decision makers.

To subscribe for $19.95 per year, please send payment, name, business name, mailing address and phone number to: Billings Business 401 N. Broadway Billings, MT 59101 ADVERTISING For retail advertising call Curtis Wallette, 657-1427; Milt Lang, 657-1275; or Arcadea Scott, 657-1244. For classified advertising, call 657-1212.

Advertising deadline for the July 2016 issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 9. You may send material to ads@billingsbusiness.com or Fax to 657-1538.

NEWS If you would like to submit a news tip, story idea, announcement about your business or press release, please email it to: editor@billingsbusiness.com website: www.billingsbusiness.com Information published herein does not reflect the opinion of Billings Business. Contents are the property of Billings Business.

Personal

By the Numbers

Business

LocaL and regionaL economic trends

real estate Member FDIC

agriculture King Ave 655-2700

Hilltop & Main 896-4800

Shiloh & Grand 655-3900

Downtown 655-2400

www.stockmanbank.com

14th & Grand 371-8100

National park visitors

5

50

4

In ten thousands

Montana ranked 25th among all 50 states in Chief Executive Magazine’s 2016 ranking of the best and worst states in which to do business. Montana’s ranking improved by four places from 2015, one of nine states to show the most improvement.

Airport boardings

60

40

In hundred thousands

MOVING UP

30

Source: Chief Executive Magazine

Billings housing starts 120

60

10

0

30 10

December

January

February

December 2014 to April 2015

March

2015

December 2015 to April 2016

Source: City of Billings

Montana winter wheat

Jan.

Feb. March

Oct. 2014 to March 2015 Oct. 2015 to March 2016 Oct. 2014 to March 2015 Oct. 2015 to March 2016 Oct. 2014 to March 2015 Oct. 2015 to March 2016

Source: Montana Department of Transportation

Unemployment

Montana Beef Cattle

(per bushel)

Dec.

Missoula

Source: National Park Service

Ag prices $8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Bozeman

Nov. 2014 to April 2015 Nov. 2015 to April 2016

2016

Nov.

Feb. March April

Jan.

Dec.

Glacier National Park

YTD Through April 31

April

Nov.

Nov. 2014 to April 2015 Nov. 2015 to April 2016

0

Oct.

Billings

Yellowstone National Park

40

20 0

110

80

40

2

1

0

50

3

20

New single-family home building permits 113

Worden 967-3612

(per cwt.)

6%

200

5

150

4 3

100

2 50

Oct.

Nov.

Dec.

Jan.

Feb.

March

October 2014 to March 2015 Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

0

1 Oct.

Nov.

Dec.

Jan.

October 2015 to March 2016

Feb.

March

0

October

November

Montana

December

January

Yellowstone County

February

March

U.S.

Source: Montana Department of Labor and Industry

June 2016

5

Chad Rolison of FlowMark/ HighTech shows off the company’s new gasket cutter.

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

Gasket machine boosts productivity at Flowmark/High Tech

By TOM HOWARD

A high-tech machine that cuts custom gaskets quickly and accurately is boosting productivity and generally making life easier at Flowmark/High

Tech, a long-time Billings business that manufactures gaskets and sells filters used in a variety of industries.

The gasket cutter operates through computer numerical control, CNC for short.

To complete a recent order for three large gaskets, workers first fed a series of instructions into the machine’s computerized controller. Then, the quarter-inch-thick gasket material was laid on the machine’s bed, the computer guided a tiny oscillating knife blade to the proper location and went to work. First, the machine cut out each of 18 bolt holes in a precise pattern that matched the bolts in a pipe’s flanges. The gasket was complete after the inside and outside diameters were cut out.

Within five minutes, the machine had zipped out three gaskets, each as big around as a manhole cover. The cut is so accurate that tolerances are measured in thousandths

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June 2016

FlowMark/HighTech’s new gasket cutter.

of an inch.

“We used to cut these by hand. Before, it would have taken us up to three hours to cut these three gaskets,” Flowmark/ High Tech manager Chad Rolison said as the machine came to a stop. “Now it takes more time to set up the job than it takes to cut the gasket.”

“It was definitely a little more time consuming the way we used to do it,” said Shane Rekdal, Rolison’s fellow manager at the company.

“We used to cut these by hand. Before, it would have taken us up to three hours to cut these three gaskets.”

Chad Rolison Previously, a hydraulic press fitted with various dies was used to stamp out gaskets, a process a little bit like an industrialstrength cookie cutter.

“The dies cost between $100 and $500 apiece, but we’ll never buy another one

again,” Rolison said.

The three gaskets in this particular job were shipped to North Dakota to be used on a treater at an oil well site. Flowmark/High Tech makes gaskets of all shapes and sizes, and uses a variety of materials. Refineries

and other heavy industries are among the company’s customers.

“This is new business for us,” Rekdal said, referring to the job bound for North Dakota. “We started cutting gaskets for another company, and this company had heard about what we have going on. So hopefully, down the road, it will lead to some more business.”

The gasket cutter — its brand name is Please see Cut, Page 8 June 2016

7

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff photos

Chad Rolison of FlowMark/HighTech shows off the company’s new gasket cutter.

Cut Continued from Page 7 ATOM Flashcut — is manufactured in Europe and cost around $150,000. But it’s expected to pay for itself by generating more business and boosting efficiency.

Rekdal believes that it’s the first CNC-controlled gasket cutter in Montana.

When the machine was first installed, a technician spent about a week in Billings, setting it up and training employees on how to use it.

Rekdal remembers making one adjustment while learning to use the machine. He had to go out and buy metric tape measures, since machines built in Europe usually follow metric standards.

CNC machines are becoming more common in factories and reflect the

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June 2016

increasingly technical nature of manufacturing.

CNC-controlled machine tools can be adapted to operate routers, cutters, welders, grinders, lathes and other power tools.

Gaskets can be designed in several ways.

“Sometimes we go on site and will measure the dimension of their gaskets. Or, they’ll send us patterns which we’ll scan into

CAD files,” Rekdal said.

In one section of the building, boxes containing filters of various sizes are stacked neatly on shelves.

All eight employees pitch in when a truck containing filters is unloaded.

Most filters come in standard sizes. But sometimes a custom size is needed. “We can cut it to any size you need,” said Luke Freeman.

The best care is right here.

Billings Clinic’s membership in the Mayo Clinic Care Network means Billings Clinic specialists can consult with Mayo Clinic on your care, creating another breakthrough we call home. For you that means no long-distance travel, peace of mind and access to the finest medical knowledge available. Right here at home.

To find out more, visit billingsclinic.com/mayo

June 2016

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SPONSORED BY THE BIG SKY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SBA LOAN PROGRAM SERVES CUSTOMERS FROM THROUGHOUT THE STATE Big Sky EDC provides financing to eligible small businesses anywhere in Montana and many of our loans are originated here in Yellowstone County

Brandon Berger is director of business finance at Big Sky Economic Development.

Contact him at 406869-8403. brandon@ bigskyeda.org

It’s a known fact that Big Sky Economic Development is the economic development agency primarily associated with Yellowstone County. However, many may not know that some of our services are also used throughout Montana.

One of these services is the SBA 504 Loan Program.

We are a Certified Development Company authorized by the U.S. Small Business Administration to administer the SBA 504 Loan Program throughout Montana.

The SBA 504 Loan program provides smallbusiness owners access to capital with as little as 10 percent equity into the project with a portion of the total financing at a competitive, long-term, fixed-interest rate.

This is for fixed asset financing, i.e., land and building (owner occupied) and larger equipment.

The trilogy of numbers to keep in mind are 50/40/10, with 50 being the 50 percent of the project financed by the borrower’s private commercial lender.

Forty is the 40 percent financed by the SBA 504 loan program using a 10- or 20-year fixed rate note.

Ten is the percent equity required of the borrower in

most cases.

As mentioned, Big Sky EDC provides financing to eligible small businesses anywhere in Montana and many of our loans are originated here in Yellowstone County.

However, we have provided financing to businesses from Red Lodge to Ryegate, Miles City to Missoula, Heron to Hardin, Laurel to Laurin, Culbertson to West Yellowstone, Kalispell, Polson, Bozeman, Butte, and Helena. Over the past 10 years, we have funded 107 loans totaling nearly $70 million, and this is only that amount attributable to the SBA 504 portion of the financing package.

These projects have varied from as little as $180,000 in total project costs up to projects over $10 million. There really is no maximum to the size of project we can participate in.

All in all, the SBA 504 Loan program is a great financing option for small businesses in Montana.

Give the Finance Team at Big Sky Economic Development a call and we would be happy to visit with you no matter where you are located. Montana is a beautiful state and we love to get out and hit the road.

PRINT

ONLINE

MOBILE

SubcontractorS…

bid to Win

Show general contractors your value

June 17th 8:00 a.m. to noon Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

First Interstate Bank Operations Center 1800 6th Avenue North Billings, MT 59101 No charge to attend Registration is Required Presenter: Mark Qualman Construction Manager Swank Enterprises

Register at www.montanaptac.org or call (406) 869-8414

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June 2016

TABLET

APPS

COMMUNICATION Is The key Build trusted partnerships with general contractors

DIFFeReNTIATION

Identify the best “things” and ways to differentiate from other subcontractors

sCOPe OF WORk

Demonstrate your complete understanding of the scope of the work

WINNING The bID

Position your company as the higher value to the general contractors

POsT bID COMMUNICATIONs Communicate with general contractors from start to project completion

Upcoming Chamber/ CVB Functions More details and RSVP: www. billingschamber.com or call 245-4111

SPONSORED BY THE BILLINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

June Business After Hours: Wednesday, June 8, Keller Williams, 745 Henesta Drive, 5-7 p.m. Cost is $8.

2016 Ag Appreciation Tour Friday, June 10. Tour ag industry locations throughout southeast Montana.

All day. Cost is $55.

O KLAHOMA C ITY A BLUEPRINT FOR HOW B ILLINGS CAN PROSPER We are a good community, but we have the capability of being great.

John Brewer, CAE, is president of the Billings Chamber of Commerce/ Convention and Visitors Bureau. Contact him at (406) 869 -3720 or John@ billingschamber.com

At 9:01 a.m. on April 19, 1995, an unthinkable act shook Oklahoma City, and the world.

If Oklahoma City’s story began at the sound of shotgun-start to claim land in 1889, the blast from a domestic terrorist attack could have been the end of the story. Instead, it started a new chapter: one of unity, vision and the “Oklahoma Standard.”

The Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was ripped apart, ending 168 lives and devastating a community and a nation.

Rather than running from the incomprehensible disaster, the community ran toward their fallen neighbors and, at great risk, served with kindness and great honor.

On April 19, 2016, a group of Billings Chamber members attended the 21st anniversary service and placed a wreath on the grounds of the Oklahoma City National Memorial. Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett was introduced at the service as a man who ‘dares the world to pull us apart,’ and Gov. Mary Fallin told us of the “Oklahoma Standard,” an attitude of not giving up and getting through any challenge that lies ahead.

Thirty Billings business and civic leaders took three days to examine best practices in Oklahoma City with the goal of learning tools for making Billings the best it can be. Oklahoma City boasts a vibrant downtown, successful strategies

to grow young talent, a solid government relations structure to improve their business and community environment, and a “dream big” attitude.

Billings’ population, and that of Montana as a whole, is aging. We are currently the sixth oldest state in our nation. Oklahoma City has found a fountain of youth through the investment in their community via the Metro Area Projects (MAPs) initiative. This is a voter-approved one cent local option sales tax that is governed by a citizen’s advisory board. Specific projects, with a sunset provision and accountability measures, are placed before the voters. Over the past 20 years, OKC residents approved $1.5 billion in one cent sales tax-driven projects. There are 130,000 college students in the Oklahoma City area and nearly 85 percent of Oklahomans who graduate stay in OKC. This is a testament to the young-professional community they have built.

Oklahoma City’s transformation was in part spurred by tragedy and self-reflection.

Just prior to the bombing, OKC lost a significant bid to be the home of a large manufacturing operation. When city leaders asked why, the corporate decision makers said simply: “We couldn’t see our workforce living in Oklahoma City.” Things had to change.

The city took its destiny in its

own hands and developed the MAPs program.

Tourism was nonexistent for Oklahoma City 20 years ago — until a one percent local option sales tax was enacted.

Before the tax there was just one hotel downtown. Today there are more than 2,300 sleeping rooms, boasting a 75 percent occupancy rate, in a dynamic downtown area.

The Billings contingent

Billings Chamber Open 2016 Friday, June 24, The Briarwood 7:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. shotgun starts, $500/team

wrapped up the trip identifying three key imperatives and barriers to moving forward that will be addressed immediately. To begin with there must be stronger relationships between and among government at all levels and the business community.

Secondly, there is a need for a shared community vision and strategic direction. Lastly, this transformational move-

ment toward accomplishing the strategic vision must be creatively funded using such tools as a local option taxing authority.

We are a good community, but we have the capability of being great. We need to act with a sense of urgency so that we are not falling farther behind our competitive markets across the country and around the state.

Presenting Sponsor

BillingsChamber.com

June 24th | Briarwood Golf Club Shotgun starts at 7:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. $500/team of 4 | single spots available Visit BillingsChamber.com for details

June 2016

11

Wendy Mills

Hats off to helping babies

By TOM HOWARD The Knifty Knitters have their needles clicking and their crochet hooks flying.

The group — most of them are residents of Aspen View Senior Living and Retirement Community — has a goal of crafting up to 2,000 purple knit hats that will go to families with newborns.

The hat project, part of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies, aims to reduce shaken baby syndrome.

Wendy Mills works with the Knifty Knitters as part of her duties as enrichment coordinator at Aspen View. Mills was honored recently by Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies, a nonprofit that works to ensure the health of infants.

Infants can be severely injured or even killed when the person caring for them becomes frustrated with their crying. In many cases, those injuries could have been prevented if the adult knew that crying can be normal, according to the Click for Babies website.

At the Rhinestones and Rodeo fundraiser, Mills received the Ken Moore Community Service Award for her efforts to reduce infant deaths in Montana.

Here, Mills discusses a career that’s proven to be fulfilling and fun.

Photo illustration

by James Woodcock

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June 2016

What’s the best part of your job?

Three times a week I lead an exercise class. I have about 16 in the class, and we use weights, bands and balls. It’s very fulfilling to see them exercise and improve their health. I take a lot of pride in that.

None of the residents who go away in an ambulance are the ones in my exercise class.

I had one lady who broke her hip, and I talked her into trying my exercise class. She’s doing a lot better now.

It must be fun being involved in all of that hat making. Where does the yarn come from?

Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies has donated some. Holiday Retirement Corp., the owner of Aspen View, has donated yarn.

A funny story is that one of our residents, Ginny Dice, went out last January and bought up all of the purple yarn at Wal-Mart, Michaels and other stores.

Florence Massey is another resident who has made over 200 hats so far this year for “Click for Babies” with her own money.

What’s the significance of the color purple?

When you shake a baby, it turns purple, so the purple hat is a reminder not to shake your baby. There are about 2,000 babies born in Q: First, a little background: How did you Billings each year, so that’s why we’re trying get involved in working with seniors? to knit a hat for every baby.

A: I was a “Should have Danced all Night” It sounds like your job has its share of baby. My dad was 47 and my mom was 43 challenges in addition to the rewards. when I was born. As a teen-ager, I would Correct? duck and cover when they asked for the It’s so rewarding working here. Everysenior menu at a restaurant. So I’ve grown up being around older people. My mom, who body’s generosity is on display. You hear “thank you” all the time. is 90, still lives with me. Over the years I’ve I’m one of the last people our residents been a volunteer. I’ve coached basketball and see in their lives. The hardest part is getting soccer and was a leader for Girl Scouts and close to them, but having to say goodbye.

4-H. So I have that activity knowledge.

June 2016

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Business in

3D -

Nate Schnase shows a replica of a Greek helmet that was produced on a 3-D printer.

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June 2016

HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff

Billings business provides digital design, 3-D printing

By TOM HOWARD A piece of equipment about the size of a microwave oven has immortalized Elwood the pug.

Elwood’s visage, small enough to fit comfortably in the hand, features Nate Schnase’s beloved pet sporting a king’s crown and posing triumphantly with his front paws resting atop a shield and a pair of crossed swords.

“I don’t know what it is about pugs, but they always seem to have about 9,000 pounds of personality,” Schnase said.

Elwood’s heroic pose is part of a chess set that Schnase and his brother, Lee, have been designing. The Elwood-inspired chess piece started out as a digital image and was transformed into a solid object thanks to 3-D printing, the gee-whiz technology that creates detailed, threedimensional objects using a machine that lays down hundreds of thin layers of material in precise patterns that match a digital design.

The company offers digital designs, 3-D modeling for mechanical parts or prototypes, 3-D printing for digital models provided by clients and objects rendered using a 2.5-dimensional CNCrouter.

Schnase began delving into digital design about five years ago as a sidelight to his regular job at GE Finance. He’s mostly self-taught.

For the past three years he has been selling his design and modeling services for customers from all over the world through his company, Collector CNC and Design. Many customers reach him through the company website, www.collectorscnc.com.

The 3-D printing industry has been one of the hot technology sectors in recent years. Most frequently, the technology has been used for creating prototypes or custom-built pieces. But new 3-D printing machines use powdered metal instead of plastic, opening up new markets for custom manufactured goods.

Objects made from glass, graphene and other exotic materials will soon be made using 3-D printers, according to Rick Smith, who writes about technology trends in Forbes magazine.

Nobody knows for sure how many Montana companies use 3-D printers, but the technology has a steady following of high school and college students as the

technology expands.

One of the more popular pieces to come out of Schnase’s 3-D printer is shaped like a connecting rod and a piston. It makes a great trophy for events involving internal combustion engines, he said.

A table in his work room displays a variety of 3-D printed objects. A pencil holder appears to have been fashioned from stacks of hollow triangles. A small spotlight was designed to resemble the Bat Signal that Commissioner Gordon used to summon the Caped Crusader in Batman movies.

While fashioning a cradle for a Samsung smartphone, Schnase made sure to buy the proper charging cord. In an early prototype, the slot through which the cord passes wasn’t quite wide enough.

The 3-D printer also fashioned a Greek-style helmet that resembles a piece of headgear used during the Peloponnesian War. Concentric circles radiate from the crown of the helmet, where the machine methodically laid down layers of plastic, one by one.

The business has gone through a few bumps along the way. In 2011, Schnase bought an off-the-shelf 3-D printer that was touted as the biggest and best of its class. But before long it started going haywire. After numerous calls to the company’s customer service department, Schnase couldn’t believe the message he received from the company.

“You’re stuck with it.”

Undaunted, he spent months tinkering with it, “transforming a pile of garbage into a pretty reliable machine that puts out some great parts.” During that time he spent hours poring over online forums and exchanging emails and messages with other users, he said.

Since he has rebuilt nearly every part in the machine, Schnase has grown to appreciate the 3-D printer a little more.

“Watching it work is kind of mesmerizing,” he said as the printer whirred and beeped. “It has its own music.”

Schnase has diversified the business by building a CNC router, a machine that can sculpt wood and plastic into various shapes. One specialty is 2.5-D objects, in which an object represented in two dimensions is represented with a threedimensional effect, much like a contour map used in museum displays.

HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff

Nate Schnase’s beloved pug, Elwood, is immortalized as a heroic chess piece. Schnase completely rebuilt this 3-D printer that he

June 2016

15

Nick Steen thrilled to return to Billings as Northern Hotel executive chef

By TOM HOWARD Billings native Nick Steen once gazed at the massive renovation going on to the historic Northern Hotel and started dreaming about possibilities.

“I’ll never forget sitting just a couple blocks away and looking at it and thinking: ‘I wish I could be the chef there,’” Steen said.

Three years after the Northern reopened following a multimillion-dollar renovation, Steen’s wish has come true.

He’s excited to be named the Northern’s new executive chef.

Steen was twice named a Top Ten Chef in the Northwest by The Culture Trip, an online art, food and travel site, during a promising 13-year career in the kitchen.

Last year, Steen was one of the featured chefs in the MSU Billings Foundation Wine & Food Festival, which raises money for student scholarships and programs.

Steen succeeds Tim Freeman, who helped burnish the Northern’s reputation by defeating the famous Iron Chef Bobby Flay in a cooking competition.

The Northern’s history and its commitment to quality drew him back to Billings, said Steen, who most recently worked as executive chef at Lone Mountain Guest Ranch at Big Sky. “Mr. Nelson is one of the most passionate people I know,” Steen said, referring to Mike Nelson, who owns the Northern with his brother, Chris. “Working here makes you want to be that much better, work that much harder.”

Steen, 31, said he has been given plenty of latitude to bring his own touches to the menu at the Northern’s two restaurants.

Bernie’s, an upscale diner, serves breakfast and lunch. Dinner is served at TEN. “They’re very much open to letting me do what I’m passionate about,” Steen said. “Being born and raised in Billings, I believe I have a good understanding

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June 2016

Nick Steen is the new chef at TEN at the Northern Hotel, pictured recently in the restaurant.

of what our market wants.”

The Billings dining scene continues to evolve for the better, said Steen, who plans to introduce an updated menu by late spring or early summer.

“Sometimes people don’t give Montana and Billings enough credit for gastronomy that can happen here,” Steen said. “They look at Montana and think that all we eat is steaks and baked potatoes. But we also love seafood as well.”

With Billings located smack

dab in the middle of cattle country, beef will continue to be on the menu at the Northern.

Steen said he hopes to capitalize on the Northern’s long tradition of fine dining. “We can take some of the history of this place and bring it up to 2016 standards,” he said.

While working at Lone Mountain Guest Ranch, Steen often ventured into the hills to forage for local ingredients, such as wild juniper berries. He hopes to make use of other Montana touches at

the Northern.

After graduating from Skyview High in 2003, Steen enrolled at Montana State University. His long-term goal was to become a doctor. Needing to earn money to pay his way through college, he landed a cooking job at the Yellowstone Club, the ultra-exclusive resort near Big Sky. He started as a breakfast cook, but graduated into fine dining.

Working there ignited Steen’s passion for cooking. In those days, the club offered snowcat

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

dinners — private, catered meals at remote locations. It was during this time that his mentor, Chuck Schommer, taught him valuable tips.

“Chuck gave me a chance.

He taught me the nuances and techniques, the little things that I’ve carried on for 13 years,” Steen said.

“We’re super excited to have Nick,” said Heather Hale, director of food and beverage at the Northern. “He’s been really phenomenal.”

Record number of air travelers expected in 2016 LOS ANGELES TIMES LOS ANGELES — A record 231.1 million passengers are expected to travel on U.S.-based airlines this summer, a 4 percent increase over last summer.

That was the forecast from Airlines for America, the trade group for the nation’s air carriers. The prediction is good news for the airline industry but it could mean major headaches for summer travelers who can expect even more gridlock at airport security checkpoint lines.

Wait times at airport screening checkpoints have been growing recently for several reasons, including a shortage of Transportation Security Administration officers and the growth in passenger traffic over the last few years.

“It has been a challeng-

ing spring with fliers waiting in lines that take more than 60 to 90 minutes to get through security,” said Sharon Pinkerton, vice president of legislative and regulatory affairs for the trade group. “We encourage TSA to quickly hire and train new staff to help alleviate this problem.”

Congress authorized the Department of Homeland Security to transfer $34 million to pay for additional officers to reduce the delays. TSA officials said they plan to use that money to hire 768 new airport screeners and put more funding toward part-time workers and overtime pay.

But the union that represents TSA officer has called for the addition of 6,000 screeners to address the surge in air travelers.

From June 1 to Aug. 31, the

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nation’s airports are expected to serve an average of 2.51 million passengers a day, a 95,000 passenger-aday increase over last summer, according to Airlines for America. The airline trade group attributed the growth in air travel primarily to lower fares.

“We saw airfares fall throughout 2015, and that trend continued in the first three months of 2016,” said John Heimlich, vice president and chief economist for the trade group.

The nation’s airlines have kept fares low while increasing their earnings margin to 13.2 percent in the first quarter of 2016, up from 11.2 percent in the same quarter of 2015 because jet fuel prices in North America have dropped 32.5 percent over the last year.

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June 2016

17

MONTANA ENERGY REVIEW

Bakken crude shipped to Netherlands after ban lifted

By TOM HOWARD The first North Dakota crude oil to be shipped overseas from the prolific Bakken oil formation traveled more than 6,400 miles, where it was processed at a refinery in the Netherlands.

The export of 175,000 barrels of Bakken crude was the first overseas shipment of North Dakota oil in more than 40 years.

Congress agreed to remove the ban on crude exports, a relic of the 1970s energy crisis, last December. It didn’t take long for oil companies to begin selling oil overseas.

North Dakota’s congressional delegation and industry officials welcomed the move by Hess Corp.

Ron Ness, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Council, called the shipment a significant event. The initial shipment accounts for only a small portion of North Dakota’s production — which has averaged more than 1 million barrels per day for more than two years. But it’s significant because it opens up new, more profitable markets to Bakken crude, Ness said.

“We have always felt the need for developing these relationships and markets, and helping our customers understand the value and quality of the Bakken crude,” said Ness, who heads a trade group that represents 500 companies working in the oil patch in the western part of the state.

It’s likely too early to speculate how much North Dakota’s crude exports will increase in coming months and years. But Ness said that exports give North Dakota an opportunity to get a better price for their oil.

“Our friends and allies would rather get barrels from right here in the U.S. than buying them from Russia, Iran or Libya,” Ness said.

The proposed Dakota Access pipeline, connecting the Bakken region to a market hub in Pakota, Illinois, has received state permits and is awaiting a federal permit.

Ness said the Dakota Access pipeline, designed to transport up

18

June 2016

No. 2 producer behind Texas.

Drilling has slowed in the North Dakota due to slumping oil prices, and tax revenue for the state has fallen as a result. There were 28 rigs drilling in the state on April 20, compared with 92 on the same day one year ago.

Roper would not disclose if the company intended to increase its North Dakota crude shipments abroad.

“Where crude goes is where it gets the best value,” Roper said.

“We are always seeking higher value. When the value is right, we will definitely do it.”

The company has said that A warning placard on a tank car producers could earn up to $14 shows that a train is carrying Bakken more per barrel for domestic sweet crude oil. crude by selling it on the world market. to 450,000 barrels of crude per Sweet crude oil from North day, will provide cheaper, faster Dakota’s rich Bakken and Three access to the Gulf Coast.

Forks formations has traded up The ban on crude exports was to 25 percent less compared to put in place in response to the West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. energy crisis of the 1970s. It’s not benchmark. immediately clear what impact Oversupply at Cushing, Oklahoma,— the delivery point for exporting North Dakota oil will have on prices or production. And benchmark WTI — and the lack of pipeline capacity in North Dakota environmental groups have said increasingly forced producers they worry that increased supply to ship product by rail to East,

by U.S. energy companies will West and Gulf Coast refineries. In lead to more pollution and higher those markets, shippers typically global emissions. fetched premium prices compaHess spokesman John Roper rable to Brent crude, the global said the crude originated from benchmark used in pricing oil Tioga, North Dakota, in early April. It was shipped by rail to St. imported by U.S. refineries.

Ness, president of North James, Louisiana. There, it was Dakota oil trade group, said the loaded on a tanker with ExxonMobile Corp.’s offshore oil from state’s light, sweet crude faces the Gulf of Mexico. competition in those markets The tanker arrived in mid April from similar high-quality crude in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where from the Eagle Ford formation in ExxonMobile has a refinery, Roper Texas. Most domestic refineries said. are built to handle lesser-quality Hess, formerly known as Amheavy crudes from the U.S. and erada Hess, is based in New York. Canada.

Amerada Hess was the first comOilmen in North Dakota have pany to strike oil in North Dakota long complained that North in April, 1951. The oil that reached Dakota’s filet mignon-like oil has Europe was loaded at a rail facility been sold at hamburger prices. owned by Hess and not far from Ness said lifting the export ban where the company first found oil should help bring higher prices for beneath a farmer’s wheat field 65 North Dakota oil.

The Associated Press years ago. contributed to this report. A BNSF train carrying Bakken crude oil rolls past.

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MONTANA ENERGY REVIEW GTUIT, Caterpillar sign agreement

Caterpillar Oil & Gas announce that Caterpillar has signed a worldwide marketing agreement with Billings-based GTUIT, a manufacturer of field natural gas treatment systems. Caterpillar will assist GTUIT with entering into marketing agreements with targeted Caterpillar Dealers worldwide to sell, market and service GTUIT products.

GTUIT and Caterpillar have already initiated the process of working together by establishing direct contact with Caterpillar dealers in the Middle East, Europe, Latin, South and North America.

Follow up visits will be made in the coming months.

GTUIT provides customers with solutions to meet the dynamic conditions found in oil fields around the world. “At GTUIT, we have differentiated ourselves in the natural gas treatment market by offering mobile and scalable solutions that remove hydrogen sulfide (H2S), dehydrate, and condition fuel gas for increased efficiency and reliability from CAT engines,” said Brian Cebull, president and CEO of GTUIT. “As a result of the Caterpillar marketing agreement, we are looking forward to establishing a GTUIT presence in producing oil and gas regions around the world by working with local Caterpillar Dealers.”

“We made an initial and a follow up investment in GTUIT and the marketing agreement is our commitment to work with GTUIT to introduce them to our worldwide Dealers active in oil and gas.” said Craig Lange, Caterpillar Global Strategy and Business Development. “GTUIT’s equipment will make our Dealers more competitive on projects with sour and marginal gas. The conditioned

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June 2016

BRIEFS

measures proposed by developers wouldn’t minimize those impacts.

At a minimum, 122 acres of the tribe’s fishing grounds would be impacted by the project.

Environmental groups opposed to the terminal cheered the decision, calling it a huge win not just for the tribe but in the fight against fossil fuels.

Montana U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke and other supporters criticized the Corps for issuing a decision before the environmental analysis was complete.

“The Gateway Pacific Terminal is incredibly important to Montana, the Crow, and even to the blue collar workers in Washington State because it is literally the gateway to economic prosperity and rising out of poverty,” Zinke said in statement.

ASSOCIATED PRESS The Crow Nation of Montana has an option for ownership in the gas from the GTUIT equipment signed a treaty with the U.S. in Asia. new terminal.

Col. John Buck, commander of 1855 in which it ceded its land but also reduces maintenance costs for Colin Marshall, CEO and presiour CAT engines and extends their the corps’ Seattle district, said the reserved the right to hunt and fish dent of Wyoming-based Cloud project can’t be permitted because in “usual and accustomed” areas. life.” Lange went on to say.

Peak Energy, said in a statement Project developers said that the impacts from the trestle and issued by Zinke that the project three-vessel wharf would interfere they are considering all alternaArmy Corps “has been subjected to an unprecwith the tribe’s treaty rights to fish tives. nixes terminal “This is an inconceivable deci- edented parallel process imposed in its traditional areas.

SEATTLE — The U.S. Army by the Corps that served to pick sion. Looking at the set of facts “The corps may not permit Corps of Engineers has denied a winners and losers among Native in the administrative summary, a project that abrogates treaty permit to a $700 million projAmerican Tribes with differing it’s quite obvious this is a politirights,” Buck said during a media ect to build the nation’s largest interests in the project.” cal decision and not fact based,” briefing. coal-export terminal in northLast month, project developers The Lummi Nation cheered the Bob Watters, president of Pacific west Washington state, handing a International Terminal, LLC, said asked state and federal regulators decision, saying the Corps honstriking victory to the Lummi tribe ored its treaty with the U.S. and to temporarily halt an environin a statement. which argued the project would mental review that began in 2013, The project developers had recognized that the project would violate its treaty-protected fishing hurt the tribe’s fishing rights. while the Corps heard the Lummi’s argued that the most productive rights.

“It’s great news for the Lummi, fishing for the tribe does not occur request. Buck said the corps’ deciThe decision effectively ends sion puts an end to that federal near the wharf and that the tribe a great win for treaty rights and the federal environmental review environmental analysis. DevelopIndian country,” said Tim Ballew, didn’t provide real evidence that of a deep-water port that would they fished or crabbed a lot in the ers could appeal the decision by chairman of the tribe with more have handled up to 54 million suing in federal court. area. than 5,000 members and one of metric tons of dry bulk commodi- the largest tribal fishing fleets in And tribal leaders say the But the Corps said the tribe ties, mostly coal, at Cherry Point. the country. “The record estabdispute hasn’t likely ended. “Quite showed evidence that members The venture between SSA Marine lished, and everybody knew, this possibly there’s a long road again fish near the proposed dock and and Cloud Peak Energy proposed of us, but our priority is always did so regularly. The agency said project would have negative imreceiving coal by train from Mon- pacts to treaty fishing rights.” the pier itself would impact the to protect Cherry Point,” Ballew tribe’s fishing rights, and that Like many tribes, the Lummi added. tana and Wyoming for export to

MONTANA ENERGY REVIEW The project has become a lightning rod in the debate over whether the Pacific Northwest should become a gateway for exporting fossil fuels to Asia.

Environmental groups strongly oppose the proposal, worried about the greenhouse gases pollutants produced by burning coal and other issues such as increased train and vessel traffic. Meanwhile, some business and labor groups say it will create hundreds of jobs and generate tax revenue.

Study measures Bakken methane

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The oil-producing region of North Dakota and Montana leaks 275,000 tons of methane annually, a significant

BRIEFS

amount of the greenhouse gas but less than previously believed, according to a study.

The data, collected in two years ago by an airplane over the heart of western North Dakota’s oil patch, was the first field study of methane emissions done in the Bakken shale formation that spans western North Dakota and eastern Montana, said Jeff Peischl, the study’s lead author from the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado in Boulder.

After carbon dioxide, methane, the primary component of natural gas, is the second-most prevalent greenhouse gas emitted from the U.S. and the majority of such emissions

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come from natural gas and petroleum systems, the Environmental Protection Agency has said.

Methane emissions from the Bakken were less than what had been reported by some satellites and slightly lower than U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that were based only on production levels, Peischl said. And the data show the amount of methane leaking from the Bakken is similar to the emission rate from the oil-rich DenverJulesburg Basin in Colorado, Peischl said.

Researchers said using low-flying aircraft, like the one the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration flew over the oil field in May 2014, improves accuracy of emission collection data.

A separate study released last month showed that the Bakken leaks about 250,000 tons of ethane annually, and enough to be detected by monitors in Europe.

Ethane also is a significant component of natural gas, a valuable byproduct of oil production in the Bakken. Drillers currently burn off, or flare, more than 10 percent of the gas because development of pipelines

and processing facilities to capture it hasn’t kept pace with oil drilling.

At least 95 percent of methane and ethane emissions are burned by flaring, said Dave Glatt, chief of North Dakota Department of Health’s environmental health section. Glatt said the state been using infrared cameras since last summer to detect emissions coming from oil operations.

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21

SALESmoves

R elationships have ‘ edges ’;

make sure yours are compatible Your personal edges determine your business and career edges. And your happiness.

Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of The Sales Bible and The Little Red Book of Selling. Reach him at 704-3331112 or email salesman @ gitomer.com

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June 2016

Beginning a relationship is easy.

Exploration is predominantly on the surface. Nothing too deep. Nothing too wide.

Nothing too revealing. In the beginning, all is well. Friendships blossom. Feelings emerge.

And life is good.

It’s like fast dancing at a bar. You kind of get to know the other person without touching them. Watch them move, see their rhythm, exchange smiles, scream a word or two, and at the end of the song, thank the person for their time.

You get to know them, and decide if you want to dance again. If you like them, and believe you have some things in common, you may dance again.

And again.

If you feel good about the relationship, and a bit of trust emerges, you may permit a transaction to take place. A meeting, a dinner, a sale, or in a social setting, even a kiss.

As the relationship matures, facts and truths begin to reveal themselves — causing decisions to be made about the future of the relationship, including things like its length.

And one day you begin to see things you’ve never seen before, because life and business life takes over and reality sets in based on daily transactions and interactions, coupled with patience, emotions, feelings, and responses.

Measuring value, worth,

and trust of the relationship in business.

I’ll refer to these elements as edges. You have edges or levels, past which you will not go. Tolerance levels, social levels, service levels, philosophical levels, and business levels. If someone tries to go past your edge, your tolerance level, you, in some manner, rebuff or deny them.

Maybe even dismiss them.

Your compatibility for and with the other person’s edges, combined with your acceptance of the other person’s edges, will determine how the relationship grows or dies.

For example, I’m not a smoker. Nor am I much of a drinker. If I’m around a drinking smoker, it’s past my edges, and I don’t want to be around them much. I didn’t say ever. I just said much.

I may have a business relationship with a smoking drinker, but I’d never have a social relationship with him or her.

There are ethical edges, both personal and business. If someone goes past your ethical edges, you have a reaction, often acute, that says “danger.” It can be as “innocent” as cheating on your golf score, of as serious as cheating on your taxes or not paying your bills. It can be an erroneous invoice or an unmet crucial (promised) delivery date — but whatever it is, it’s a relationship breaker.

And then there are the emotional edges. How someone

do you draw the line? What are you willing to accept in others in order to continue a relationship? Many spousal relationships become petty before they end. Leaving the cap off the toothpaste. Dirty laundry lying around. Dirty dishes in the sink.

The gas tank on empty. Dumb little things that erode love because after a hundred abrasive times, it’s over someone else’s edge.

Of course, there are worse edges in personal relationships.

For the purposes of this writing, I’d rather not get into them. And if you’ve forgotten what they are — any local news program will remind you of them nightly.

Rather, I’m challenging you to widen your field of acceptable edges. Extend your patience.

Figure out how you can help first rather than complain, nag, bicker, nitpick, or whine. Figure Edges have a counterpoint: reacts when something goes out how you can compromise tolerance. You can tolerate alwrong, or how someone rejust a bit more. Figure how you most anything for a short space can have a bit more understandsponds to a point of argument.

And how you feel about or judge of time. But each time someing and empathy for the other their reaction. Are they whiny? one goes over your edge, you guy’s position or situation. And become less and less tolerant, Are they quick tempered? Are figure out how you can be more they abrasive? Are they abusive? either verbally or silently. of a resource than a resister.

Personally, I believe that Are they somewhat of a wildMore of a yes than a no. “past the edge” silent thoughts card? Flying off the handle. Or Your personal edges deterworse, showing characteristics are more dangerous and more mine your business and career powerful. Dangerous because that you either don’t like, or edges. And your happiness. they’re left unsaid, and allow fear. A temper. A hostility. A If you would like to know the the present situation to convindictiveness. An anger. An areas where edges, both yours insult. Even the threat of physi- tinue. More powerful because and others, are likely to reveal they begin to deepen and build cal violence. themselves, go to www.gitomer. emotion. And like any latent In other words, are they com, register if you’re a first inside (safe) or outside (unsafe) power, eventually, it explodes. time user, and enter EDGES in What are your edges? Where the GitBit box. your emotional edge?

Harley Davidson aims marketing muscle toward millennials McCLATCHEY NEWSPAPERS MILWAUKEE — HarleyDavidson loves millennials, no doubt about it, with much of the company’s marketing aimed at motorcycle buyers ages 18-34.

Do the millennials love Harley back? It looks that way, as the world’s largest manufacturer of heavyweight bikes says it’s the market leader in sales of new onroad motorcycles to young adults.

In 2015, for the eighth straight year, Harley was the No. 1 seller of new highway motorcycles in the United States to adults ages 18-34. It was also the top seller of those bikes to women, AfricanAmericans and Hispanics, as well as Caucasian men ages 35-plus, according to motorcycle registration data.

Harley says its strategy to GILLETTE NEWS RECORD/ focus on growth among “outreach Technician Josh Adele changes the stator, part of the charging system, on a motorcyle at the Deluxe Harley-Davidson customers” lines up well with U.S. dealership in Gillette, Wyo. population trends.

The millennial generation continues to grow as immigration (ages 51-69), according to the Pew motorcycle manufacturers that are In 2015, one-third of new adds to the group. Millennials now Research Center. well established with the boomers Harley-Davidson motorcycle number 75.4 million, surpassing That’s the challenge, and the but must bridge the generation gap purchasers had never owned a bike the 74.9 million baby boomers opportunity, for Harley and other to the millennials. before.

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“We continue to sell more Harley-Davidson motorcycles to today’s young adults than we sold to Baby Boomers when they were young adults,” Harley CEO Matt Levatich said last month at the company’s annual shareholders meeting held at the Harley-Davidson Museum.

“Earning their loyalty and trust is key to our future. It’s what has inspired us throughout our entire 113-year history, and it continues to inspire us today,” Levatich said.

Michael Spaeth, consumer marketing segment lead for Harley-Davidson, pointed to Harley’s new 2016 Roadster and the Dark Custom models as examples of bikes that appeal to younger riders.

Also, he said, in many ways millennial motorcyclists aren’t much different than previous generations of young riders.

“It’s almost a little eerie how much young adults riding motorcycles today look like their fathers when they were that age. The young guys are wearing the same clothing as their dads, and they are riding a very similar style of motorcycle,” Spaeth said.

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Cereal makers try to bowl over young consumers as sales fade McCLATCHEY NEWSPAPERS MINNEAPOLIS — Ashley Peters is the kind of consumer cereal-makers like General Mills both court and fear.

She grew up eating breakfast cereal — from Cheerios to Cap’n Crunch — and now at age 30 she’s part of the coveted millennial demographic. But these days, Peters usually reaches for a granola bar at breakfast, which she often eats on the job.

“It’s just easier to do,” said Peters, a 30-year-old communications manager at a St. Paul nonprofit group. “I don’t have time for milk at work.”

Cereal is still king of the American breakfast, but its realm is shrinking as consumers look for more convenience and variety.

The percent of in-home breakfast meals that include cereal dropped from 31 percent in 2009 to 26.8 percent last year, according to market researcher NPD Group.

Meanwhile, U.S. cold cereal sales have fallen 9 percent from 2011 through 2015, according to

market researcher Nielsen. Over those four years, breakfast cereal experienced a bigger sales contraction in absolute numbers than any other packaged food business, including the ailing soft-drink industry, Nielsen data show.

This is all particularly bad news for Minnesota, home of General Mills, one of the nation’s two mega-cereal-makers along with archrival Kellogg. The state also is a big hub for the No. 3 U.S. cereal company, Post Holdings, which last year bought the former Malt-O-Meal company and its plant in the state. Post now runs its cereal business out of suburban Minneapolis.

Cereal manufacturers haven’t been bowling over customers with innovative products in recent years. But they are finding other ways to fight back, excising dyes and other ingredients perceived as unhealthy. They’re marketing cereal as an alternative to other snacks.

“I’ve heard cereal being killed off three or four times in my career,” said Jim Murphy, head of General Mills’ U.S. cereal divi-

sion. “But it’s a highly resilient category.”

Cereal is General Mills’ biggest U.S. retail business, generating $2.3 billion in annual sales or 13 percent of total revenue.

The company, which turns 150 this year, began making cereal in the 1920s with the launch of Wheaties. These days, General Mills’ Honey Nut Cheerios is America’s top-selling cereal, and Big G and Kellogg each control about 30 percent of the U.S. cereal business.

Ready-to-eat breakfast cereal was originally sold on its convenience, and it’s still hardly a tall order to fix up a bowl of Cheerios.

But cereal isn’t very portable, and food portability is increasingly important to consumers.

“I know cereal doesn’t take much time, but it’s one more thing to do,” said Peters, who eats breakfast on the go.

A study last summer by consumer research group Mintel concluded that convenience at breakfast was especially critical among millennials, defined

by Mintel as between ages 22 and

39. Measured against three older groups, millennials by far agreed most with the idea that cereal should be more portable, and that cereal is inconvenient because it involves washing dishes.

Other researchers aren’t sold on the notion that millennials have soured on cereal just because of inconvenience.

“When we look at the food consumption trends of millennials, they are increasingly involved in food preparation,” said Darren Seifer, food industry analyst at NPD Group. “They will spend more time with their food.”

General Mills’ main offensive pivots on removing unwanted ingredients from its prime brands.

Last year, the company began selling gluten-free versions of Honey Nut Cheerios and classic Cheerios. Gluten, a protein in wheat, is harmful to those with celiac disease or other wheat allergies. While less than 10 percent of the population has such conditions, many consumers are trying to avoid gluten for perceived health reasons.

General Mills says the gluten-

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free effort is working: Sales of Cheerios, including Honey Nut, were up 2 percent for the nine months ending in February, after being down 8 percent in the previous year.

Mills executives are also optimistic about another project: extracting artificial colors and flavors. Naturally colored and flavored versions of Trix, Reese’s Puffs and other cereals hit the market in January and registered strong sales gains.

“This is exactly what the millennial mom wants,” said Mills’ Murphy. He sees General Mills’ cereal sales soon turning positive after more than three years of stagnation.

“I think we are going to grow this quarter,” Murphy said. Cereal, he said, is heading back to a growth rate of 1 to 3 percent.

Murphy points out that cereal still has a bigger presence in consumers’ cupboards than any other breakfast item. Half of Americans eat cereal for breakfast at least once a week, according to NPD. Eggs and coffee are next, each tallying 36 percent.

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Study shows younger consumers using ‘shared economy’ PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE PITTSBURGH — Lots of Americans have heard of Craigslist, Uber, Airbnb and Kickstarter but those who actually use them tend to be younger, wealthier and more educated — an indication that the services disrupting traditional ways of doing businesses are not reaching every neighborhood and age group equally, according to a new report by the Pew Research Center.

That’s important because such services “have had a really outsize impact on the effect over regulations and the changing nature of jobs,” said Aaron Smith, an associate director at Pew who assembled the first in a series of surveys on the digital economy that the Washington, D.C., research group plans to roll out.

The study found the population using ridehailing, home-sharing and crowd-funding platforms is “heavily concentrated” young, wealthier and more educated. It also suggested a large chunk of Americans aren’t familiar with the jargon of the digital age. About as many people who have used an online service could not explain what the term “sharing economy” exactly means.

Overall, nearly three in four American adults have used a shared or on-demand

A majority — 57 percent — of users believe ride-hailing should not be subject to traditional taxi cab regulations. service, and about 20 percent have used four or more such services, including buying second-hand goods online through a service like eBay, contributing to an online fundraising project and hiring someone to perform a task or errand.

One-third of the population aged 18 to 24 has used four or more sharing services, along with 41 percent of people with an annual household income of $100,000.

That’s more than six times the share of people over 65 and three times those who make less than $30,000 a year.

College graduates are nearly five times as likely to have used several sharing services than those with a high school degree or less.

And urban and suburban residents are around twice as likely as those living in rural areas to have used several.

In Pittsburgh, ride-hailing apps that use smartphones to connect drivers in their own vehicles with those in need of a ride have generated attention since San Francisco-based Uber and Lyft moved into town two years ago and clashed with state regulators.

Although efforts to make

the rules more accommodating to such services are underway, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission drew criticism for the penalty it assessed to Uber $11.4 million, far above Lyft’s settlement of $250,000 last year for similar violations.

Pittsburgh-area officials later joined Gov. Tom Wolf in calling the fine “chilling” to innovation necessary to transform southwestern Pennsylvania into a digital economy.

Despite disparities in who is using shared economy services, the Pew study could provide ammunition for ride-hail industry supporters. It bolsters the perception that though such companies occasionally thumb their nose at regulators, they have done more good than harm.

About 86 percent of ride-hail users feel that these services save time and stress, while 80 percent feel they offer good jobs for those who want flexible working hours. Just one in 10 think they’re giving up too much personal information to use the service.

A majority — 57 percent — of users believe ride-hailing should not be subject to traditional taxi cab regula-

ing ride-hail drivers as independent contractors and not as employees, seeing ride-hail services as softtions. ware platforms rather than But the Pew report transportation companies. identified some confusion Yet about the same portion among users on the thorny also believe that companies issues regulators are seeking bear responsibility, along to address. with drivers, to ensure About two-thirds of safety and good customer people agree with classifyservice.

Smith said one of the biggest questions going forward is how attitudes toward sharing services will change as they become more adopted.

“As more people join in who are a little less techsavvy … the extent to which those regulatory attitudes will hold up will be interesting to track,” he said.

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special advertising section

Velum Skin & laSer Center

By A llyn Hulteng PHotos By JAmes Woodcock

Dr. Cheryl S. Cook, M.D. recently opened Velum Skin & Laser Center, providing medical dermatology and skin rejuvenation treatments.

Dr. Cheryl S. Cook, M.D. offers medical dermatology and skin rejuvenation treatments using the latest technology.

One step inside Velum Skin & Laser Center and you know this is no ordinary medical office.

Dr. Cheryl S. Cook, M.D. (center) and her staff.

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June 2016

special advertising section Soft, ambient light reflects off of minkcolored walls and natural wood finishes, infusing the reception area with warmth.

There’s no line of chairs – indeed, there is no waiting room. Instead, patients are greeted by pleasant staff members and taken to a private treatment room.

“Patient privacy is one of the three tenets behind our vision for Velum Skin & Laser Center,” said Dr. Cheryl S. Cook, M.D. “Privacy. Trust. Results. These are at the core of everything we do.”

Care and Community A Board Certified Medical Internist, Dr. Cook has practiced medical dermatology for more than 10 years.

“I have a passion for patient care, and educating people with regard to keeping their skin healthy,” Cook said.

Cook is also community-minded.

She regularly gives presentations on skin cancer prevention to local groups, and talks to school kids about acne. Cook also started Walk-n-Talk With the Doc, a program associated with the YMCA where she leads participants on a 30-minute walk

“Most Montanans are active, outdoors people. When it coMes to their appearance, they Want to look naturally refreshed, With healthy gloWing skin.”

~ Dr. Cheryl S. Cook, M.D.

Velum Skin & Laser Center carries several lines of quality skincare products including Elta MD and Avene.

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special advertising section while sharing health tips. The once a week event will celebrate its 10th anniversary on June 7, 2016.

Cook’s commitment to her patients and to community service stems from a deep desire to make a difference in people’s lives. And as passionate as she is about practicing medical dermatology, she wants to do even more.

“Health care has changed dramatically during my 30-year career, and we all try to find a place in that change where we think we can make the most difference,” Cook said.

For Cook – that place is Velum Skin & Laser Center.

InspIred InterIor While skin cancer prevention and early detection are central to Cook’s practice, a growing number of patients are seeking skin rejuvenation treatments.

“Most Montanans are active, outdoors people. When it comes to their appearance, they want to look naturally refreshed, with healthy glowing skin,” she said.

To provide the highest level of care, Cook delved into advanced rejuvenation techniques and studied the latest technology. She attended numerous conferences and trained under experts, learning about new products and procedures.

“I’m an innovator; if there is a more advanced technique or new treatment, I need to know,” she said.

While Cook poured over medical research, her husband Chris took the lead working with contractor Jerry

Neumann to build the new medical office.

Located at 178 S. 32nd St. West, Velum Skin & Laser Center started as a large, unfinished space – the perfect blank canvas.

“We traveled the country touring medical offices, taking different elements that we liked and melding those into our plans,” Cook said.

The unfinished shell also enabled Cook to custom-design treatment rooms to maximize patient comfort while incorporating state-of-the-art technology.

Like many of her patients, Cook and her husband are active – frequently hiking and biking in the great outdoors. So when it came to choosing interior finishes, they wanted to infuse a sense of the surrounding countryside into the space.

Inspired by the landscape of eastern Montana, the couple chose a palette of soft grey, sandstone and mink paired with natural maple and rustic wood accents. The reception area hints at the inviting space beyond with tall ceilings, expansive windows and custom, wood and wroughtiron furnishings. Glazed glass panel doors lead down a wide hallway to a consultation suite and treatment rooms. Built-in cabinetry has the appearance of reclaimed wood, while the carpet features patterns reminiscent of Montana wheat fields.

The mix of contemporary colors and modern medical furnishings juxtaposed with rustic textures and natural wood evoke a soothing sense of harmony.

“Everything came together exactly as we envisioned,” Cook said.

patIent-centrIc Medical dermatology remains at the core of Cook’s medical practice.

“One of the things I specialize in

The new Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser creates beautiful, radiant skin with minimal downtime.

is giving full body exams,” she said.

The number one thing Cook looks for is melanoma. “Melanoma can appear anywhere, not just where the sun hits.

And it’s deadly.”

As a Board Certified Medical Internist, when someone comes to

The Halo Fractional Laser by Sciton offers the latest in skin rejuvenation technology, combining deep dermal rejuvenation with epidermal renewal for a synergistic effect.

ACKERLY ~ HURLBURT & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS ~ Thanks for choosing us for your project ~ 3970 Avenue D Billings, MT 59102 Phone: 406-652-4015 30

June 2016

Velum Skin & Laser Center is the first in Montana to offer the HydraFacial MD, a powerful, non-invasive skin treatment that detoxifies, rejuvenates and protects skin with immediate results and long term benefits.

special advertising section Cook for an evaluation she starts by looking at the big picture.

“When I see rashes, acne, thinning hair or skin abnormalities – it’s important to know if there is something more going on before deciding on a course of treatment,” Cook said.

It takes time to get to know each patient, Cook acknowledges. “For me, spending time with a patient is more important than patient volume.”

Those extra minutes also allow Cook to educate her patients, giving people the knowledge to better care for themselves. Cook’s individualized attention and care follows through to the aesthetic and skin rejuvenation side of her practice.

More than skin deep Though applying sunscreen daily remains the first line of defense to protect skin, Cook noted that new skin rejuvenation lasers and techniques can not only enhance a person’s appearance, but actually help

Dr. Cheryl S. Cook, M.D. and Chris Cook recently opened Velum Skin & Laser Center.

regenerate collagen. And she’s brought the latest technology to her practice.

“We’re the first and only practice in Montana to have Sciton’s new Halo Hybrid Laser technology,” Cook said.

The Halo combines epidermal plus deep dermal rejuvenation, reducing sun damage and improving skin texture giving people a radiant glow with minimal downtime.

In May, Cook will be the first provider in the state to offer treatments using HydraFacial MD, a non-invasive hydradermabrasion procedure which combines the benefits of a peel with a non-ablative skin resurfacing procedure.

Cook also offers less intense treatments, such as chemical peels and broadband light therapy along with Botox, filler injections and quality skincare products by Elta MD and Avene.

“When I’m seeing patients, saving lives and changing lives, that’s when I’m the happiest,” Cook said.

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special advertising section

Franchise’s Fourth Billings location serves a hungry West end croWd Jimmy John’s

opens new location

By Brenda M aas Photos By BoB Zellar

Jimmy John’s opened at 4011 Sapphire Dr. on April 12, 2016. This is the fourth JJ’s location in Billings owned by Shirlee, Jim and Jeff Yeley. photo by James Woodcock

Your lunch is not the only thing that is freaky fast at Jimmy John’s in Billings.

In six short years the locally-owned franchise has grown from one location to four. The newest store, located at 4011 Sapphire Dr., stretches JJ’s footprint to the city’s expanding western borders.

Worker Miguel Marquez uses a designated space to take phone, internet, and carry-out orders.

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June 2016

special advertising section After location number three at 611 Hilltop Rd. opened and ran smoothly, owners Shirlee, Jim and son Jeff Yeley searched for an ideal West End location to lease. They looked at property around 32nd St. W. and King Ave.; 27th St. W. and Gable Rd.; and Shiloh Crossing at the Shiloh-King intersection.

According to Jeff Yeley, the Heights location demonstrated the success of having a drive-thru in addition to delivery, carry-out and dine-in options. The Heights location was a former bank with auto-teller, so the drive-thru was already physically present – one of the first within the franchise system.

“The Jimmy John’s brand is moving that way,” said Jeff of the additional service option. “More than 50 percent of the Heights store comes from the drive-thru, so we wanted that, no matter what.”

Finding a location that would allow for those physical parameters was a bit more complex than the process for previous stores. It became increasingly clear that the West End location would need to be a newbuild instead of a renovation.

Jim and Jeff had been perusing space in Shiloh Crossing when a lot, which had

“The Jimmy John’s brand is moving ThaT way,” said Jeff of The addiTional service opTion.

“more Than 50 percenT of The

heighTs sTore comes from The drive-Thru, so we wanTed ThaT, no maTTer whaT.” In addition to carry-out, dine-in and delivery service, Jimmy John’s now includes a drive-thru where employee Jade Premo enters an order. Finding property with enough space for the drive-thru feature was an essential part of Yeley’s location search.

THE ESSENCE OF GREAT WORK BEGINS WITH TWO THINGS. QUALITY. INTEGRITY.

JIMMY JOHN’S 4011 MONTANA SAPPHIRE DR #1

— HULTENG INC., GENERAL CONTRACTOR

SPECIALIZING IN • GROUND UP CONSTRUCTION • COMMERCIAL RENOVATION • BUILDING ADDITIONS • INTERIOR /EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS • MANUFACTURING FACILITIES • REFINERY AND INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES

6417 TRADE CENTER AVENUE • BILLINGS, MT 59101 • 406.655.1116 • HULTENGINC.COM

QUALITY. INTEGRITY. June 2016

33

special advertising section been partitioned off from the Rimrock VW dealership’s property, came up for sale.

“I thought, ‘why don’t we just buy it and build what we want?’” Jeff said.

At the time they still wanted to rent.

But leases are at a premium on that side of town, added Jim. “Plus, owning makes the ROI look better,” Jim said.

Collaborative ConstruCtion

After securing financing, they purchased

the property in September of 2015 and broke ground in October.

Jim and Jeff once again connected with Hulteng, Inc. to develop and build the property. Hulteng, Inc. had first worked with J & S Enterprises (the Yeley family that “does business as” the local Jimmy John’s) on the renovation of the downtown Billings store in 2011.

Brian Roush, Hulteng, Inc. project manager notes that the West End location is the third collaborative project between

Frequent guests may notice a few subtle changes in the newest Billings Jimmy John’s but the ordering space remains directly in line with the front door.

Congratulations Jimmy John's

Hulteng and the Yeleys, saying it reflects “the level of trust and respect in our owner/ contractor relationship.”

That type of repeat business is incredibly important, he added.

Jeff, who has a background in landscape architecture, tends to take the lead on build-outs.

“Hulteng is great because they don’t mind if we ask ‘stupid’ questions,” said Jeff.

“We had done two build-outs together but on this one we first had to build the struc-

ture and then build the store.”

The Yeleys oversaw building while operating the three other locations. Unlike some owners, Jim and Jeff are hands-on nearly every day. For example, if one location is super-busy, they will step in to help.

“If it’s really crazy, like a bad-weather day, then Jeff and I will go help out – deliver, make sandwiches, whatever,” Jim said.

“The downtown store is easily the busiest lunch, it’s over-the-top.”

The Yeleys took this hands-on, daily ap-

The newest Jimmy John’s in Billings follows the new JJ’s interior design specifications, which includes high-top tables and a long countertop for inside dining.

Congratulations!

Jimmy Johns Thanks for choosing AT Architecture! atarchitecture.com 406.245.2724

34

June 2016

special advertising section proach to their building project, too.

Jeff recalls having trouble locating the city water line.

It was marked 12 years ago then knocked down, moved, knocked down and re-staked again and again, he said. When digging six-feet deep, location can be tricky.

Jeff also mentions the fire wall between the two commercial spaces as being a new experience.

“But we didn’t encounter anything major,” he said.

Roush echoes that comment, adding that winter weather could have easily hampered the project.

They started interior work in February of 2016, and the project finished on time and on budget.

“We worked diligently with both the owner and architect throughout the design process, allowing everything to move forward as envisioned,” Roush said. “We were one of the first projects to get pavement this spring after the asphalt plants opened.”

The latter step was necessary for the final inspection and certificate of occupancy.

New desigN

The newest Jimmy John’s store deviates a bit from the other three, encompassing the newest franchise design which includes updated finishes, fixtures and layout such as booths on platforms, high-top tables, countertop seating and wood-grained slate tile flooring. The JJ brand still shows loud and proud, however.

In the world of franchise ownership, Jimmy John’s is known for its strict brand requirements and inspections – sometimes as frequently as every few weeks. Additionally, a JJ’s representative must sign off on a store before it opens.

“The Yeleys are an exceptional client and very easy to work with,” said Roush.

“Prior to a Jimmy John’s store opening, a corporate representative will conduct a site visit and perform a final inspection. We are proud to say that our construction passed their rigid inspection with flying colors.”

On April 12, 2016, the West End Jimmy John’s had a “soft” opening, training staff and collaborating to work out the “new facility kinks.”

“Now we are ready to handle anything you throw at us,” said Jim.

As part of Jimmy John’s protocol, everything is baked, cut or sliced fresh by staff every day; the bakers typically start at 5:30 a.m.

Next step

Although they are rookies in the builder-owner business model, the Yeleys are happy with their decision.

“The project was scary,” noted Jim, “but we didn’t second-guess ourselves.”

Jim notes that Divide Bar & Grill and Fuel Fitness started construction at the same time and all opened this spring.

The newest JJ’s footprint covers nearly 1,900-square-feet of the 5,000-squarefoot-building, leaving 3,200-square-feet for one or two additional businesses. Additionally, the Yeleys are negotiating a contract to lease the remainder of their building.

They are also considering a fifth Billings location or a store in Laurel. Whichever way they move, there’s a good chance that the change will be freaky fast.

The back space offers additional seating and access to the restrooms.

Congratulations Jimmy John’s

Congratulations Jimmy John’s

We are proud to be involved with this project.

Specializing in Commercial Construction 2915 Hannon Rd. | 406-245-6100

The newest Jimmy John’s franchise design allows for raised booth seating.

3307 Grand Avenue Billings, Montana

Phone: 256-8200

We are proud to have been part of your construction team!

June 2016

35

special advertising section

Downtown Billings’ nYC-esque Fitness CluB A nytime Fitness

relocAted, remAins on

montAnA Avenue

By Tara Cady PhoTos By h annah PoTes & BoB Zellar

Relocating from 2702 to 2724 Montana Ave. provides Anytime Fitness 180-degree street views and natural lighting to keep athletes energized.

At street level, Anytime Fitness’ new location features ultramodern upgrades and a dynamic downtown landscape. An additional 200-square-feet provides Billings’ athletic enthusiasts a spot to be spotted by a partner, challenged and strong.

The busy downtown landscape gives runners a pace they can focus on step-after-step.

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June 2016

special advertising section You’re right to be confused. Yes, Anytime Fitness has been downtown at 2702 Montana Ave. since 2008. However, a change in a few of the address’ digits makes a big difference.

The fitness franchise relocated to 2724 Montana Ave. in early February.

Just one block west, club members now work out above ground, energized by the traffic of passersby outside thanks to the sizable windows encompassing the business at the corner of Montana and Broadway.

Before the relocation, Anytime Fitness’ fit-friendly following weight-trained and completed cardio underground in the dark basement of the old Colburn School Supply building. Without natural light, accessible parking or private showers and bathrooms, members had lessthan-ideal conditions for working out.

Club members have all of that and more at the new location.

A ll in the frAnchise fAmily Billings’ first Anytime Fitness franchise opened in the Heights in 2007, followed by downtown Billings and the West End. Donnette Roberts, co-owner of all three locations, details the downtown site’s unique features.

“All of the original brick and wood posts from this old building add to the gym’s originality,” explained Roberts of the new location, which was previously vacant for five years. “It’s keeping an old feel on Montana Avenue.”

Part of a franchise group with over 3,000 gyms nationwide, a member of

“A ll of the originAl brick And wood posts from this old building Add to the gym’s originAlity.

it’s keeping An old feel on

montAnA Avenue,” explAined

Members have told Tim Thayer, club manager, that the relocated downtown franchise rivals that of a New York City fitness club.

roberts

The free-weight room is filled with dumbbells and kettlebells for every strength-training need.

one is a member of all.

The new downtown site sets itself apart from the other Billings’ locations in that it emulates corporate franchise’s latest designs, per Anytime Fitness’ corporate requirements.

Congratulations!

Anytime Fitness Thanks for choosing AT Architecture! atarchitecture.com 406.245.2724

June 2016

37

special advertising section “Members tell me it feels like a New York City club,” said Tim Thayer, club manager, of the gym’s classy makeover.

With identical equipment packages, the only elements that change between each franchise are the classes offered, the gym’s layout and the staff on-site.

However this summer managers will participate in a “gym switch,” where each franchise trades personnel for a few months, allowing coaches to get to know all local members.

Perks of being an Anytime Fitness member include free personal coaching and consult when joining, 24-hour access and group fitness classes.

ExErcisE with EasE With two-hour street parking and parking validation available, members no longer have to walk across railroad tracks or down stairs to start their exercise regimen.

Two-hundred additional square feet at street level affords members two group fitness rooms, private bathrooms, changing rooms and showers, as well as glow-in-the-dark cycling in the 2,000-square-foot basement.

Downstairs, poles decorated with black lights and painted like trees illuminate the glow-in-the-dark mural on the wall. Cyclists can work up a sweat in the ambience created by fellow club member and artist, Edie Zickuhr.

New carpeting, paint and professional wood signage add to the gym’s fresh, clean look.

Having previously participated in the development of all of the Billings area

Anytime Fitness franchises, Jones Construction effortlessly led the project.

“Jones Construction knew the corporate requirements, so it was an easy choice to work with them again,” said Roberts. “They did a phenomenal job and were great to work with.”

Built in 1914, the building’s age created unique obstacles for AT Architecture.

“It’s always a challenge being in an existing building, but we worked around the big timber columns to preserve the site’s original features,” said John Atkinson, project manager at AT Architecture. “We also had to alter what we would normally do by massaging the corporate matrix into the space.”

Corporate requirements included purple carpeting, a chalk board, display walls and an ADA-compliant entrance.

In June 2015 planning began with AT Architecture and construction began in October. The project was completed within the designated four-month timeline and doors opened February 1, 2016. The outcome is a happy staff and healthy, fit and motivated members.

Moving forward “This project was a great, fun project to be involved in,” said Atkinson. “The bright, refreshing color schemes make it an uplifting space for members.”

Roberts and Thayer agree.

“We love it. From the openness and brightness of the windows to the glowin-the-dark cycling and boxing room downstairs, it’s fancier and members appreciate that,” Roberts said.

Congratulations Anytime Fitness

We are proud to be involved with this project.

Specializing in Commercial Construction 2915 Hannon Rd. | 406-245-6100 38

June 2016

Modern color schemes, state-of-the-art equipment and open space keeps members motivated to stay fit.

Downstairs, cycling class participants can turn off the lights for a relaxing glow-in-the-dark atmosphere.

Anytime Fitness!

Call Northwest Glass Anytime for a glass experience you can count on you for a glass experience M-Sat 8-5 (406) 252-7196 NWglass.com

127 Regal ST Billings, MT 59101

special advertising section

General Contractor for Anytime Fitness

Jones Construction Building Billings Since 1952 • • Fitness is about changin things up, and the flexible equipment is critical.

• • •

Tilt-up Concrete Design Build Commercial Industrial

1230 Regal St. Billings, MT (406) 252-6298

www.jonesconstructionmt.com A second group fitness room for yoga, boot camp and more is possible in the new facility.

June 2016

39

BETTER business

M ake sure your advertising doesn ’ t make promises it can ’ t deliver And while it’s easy to say ‘buyer beware,’ current laws prevent businesses from making outrageous claims to their customers.

Veronica Craker is managing editor of Better Busienss Bureau Northwest.

Contact her at vernoica.craker@ thebbb.org.

40

June 2016

From too much ice to plant-based mayonnaise and questionable oatmeal ingredients, advertising lawsuits are a hot topic with the food and beverage industry.

On April 27 an Illinois woman filed a suit against Starbucks for $5 million claiming the coffee shop misrepresents the amount of liquid a customer receives by including ice in the volume advertised on their menu. In 2014 Unilever, Hellman’s mayonnaise owner, tried unsuccessfully to sue the plant-based product Just Mayo for claiming to be mayonnaise despite not containing egg or dairy. And on April 29, Quaker Oats was hit with a class-action lawsuit claiming it falsely advertised its oat products as 100 percent natural, even though some of its ingredients are not considered natural in the least bit.

I won’t even begin to debate whether any of these lawsuits contain merit. I am sure some do and some most likely do not.

What I am willing to bet is that some of the companies facing lawsuits didn’t realize they were duping their customers. Maybe they did.

I don’t know. I’m not privy to those boardroom discussions. But if they thought for a second they could be brought to court and ordered to give up millions of dollars for doing just that

— I’d like to think they’d refrain.

That’s not to say there aren’t companies out there trying to deceive the public.

In fact, that happens more often than you would think. The Better Business Bureau routinely receives complaints from customers who feel a company has defrauded them. In fact, that’s why BBB was formed more than 100 years ago, to set standards for advertising. Check out BBB Scam Tracker and you’ll read plenty of complaints by consumers who feel they were deceived into purchasing a product.

One such scam concerns the numerous types of socalled anti-aging creams.

Often, these products are sold online only with advertisements stating that you’ll look 20 years younger, or a certain celebrity doctor is endorsing it as a legitimate product.

While some creams can make your skin look tighter and fresher, there’s very little chance it’s going to give you baby-soft skin in your later years. And while it’s easy to say “buyer beware,” current laws prevent businesses from making outrageous claims to their customers. And that’s something all business owners need to remember.

The Federal Trade Commission monitors advertising claims made by businesses and will often seek

If your advertising promises too much, it might be deceptive.

action against them when it is found they are being deceitful. Today, a majority of advertising is conducted via the Internet. When handling promotions online, remember that the same rules and guidelines still apply.

When using endorsements to tout a product, businesses must make sure the person or entity endorsing the product discloses that they are being paid to do so.

This is especially important for bloggers or YouTubers who often post content endorsing a product. When

plugging health claims for a service or product, companies must have proof that what they are stating can in fact happen.

Better Business Bureau serving the Northwest works with consumers and businesses to ensure accuracy in advertising. We have investigators who scrutinize company websites to guarantee our accredited businesses aren’t making promises they can’t deliver.

To help businesses toe the line we offer free ad reviews for both accredited and

COLLEEN CAHILL / Design Pics

non-accredited businesses.

Additionally, all accredited businesses must abide by the BBB Code of Business Practices. This includes following federal, state and local advertising laws.

While it is the businesses responsibility to abide by these laws and ethical standards, we have to be realistic and realize not all will.

That’s why BBB encourages customers to be vigilant when shopping for business.

As we often say here at BBB: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

LEGAL briefing

N ew M ontana law puts

a unique spin on crowdfunding Overly optimistic projections of sales and profits should also be a red flag to prospective investors.

Eric Nord is an attorney with Crist, Krogh & Nord, LLC. Contact him at 406-255-0400

Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising small financial contributions from a large number of people. The most well-known types of crowdfunding are internet-based and typically involve a donation instead of an investment.

The Montana Legislature, however, enacted a unique kind of Montana-based crowdfunding law in 2015.

Under the new law, the company must complete an application available on the Commissioner of Securities and Insurance website and pay a fee before soliciting investors. All investors in the crowdfunding project must be Montana residents.

A maximum of $1 million can be raised (federal securities registration is required above this amount). Investors can invest a maximum of $10,000, however, accredited investors can invest more.

Businesses interested in crowdfunding must register with the Montana Secretary of State. All investment monies must be deposited into a Montana-accredited financial institution. The business must have a specific plan and purpose. All important information about the venture must be disclosed to the investor.

Individuals who have been in trouble with the law or regulatory agencies may not raise money under this exemption.

Before investing in a crowdfunding project, it is important to learn more about the promoter or project creator in order to avoid being scammed. While projects may sound enticing, researching the track record of the promoter is important since he or she may not have the experience or background to create, market, and deliver a successful product or service. Also, does the promoter have the right team to make the project a reality? While it may be important for the promoter to be

visionary (think Steve Jobs or Bill Gates) it is also important to have the people who can fulfill the vision (think Steve Wozniak).

Overly optimistic projections of sales and profits should also be a red flag to prospective investors. If the promoter sees nothing but blue sky in the future, it may mean that he or she is selling nothing but blue sky. Companies and their projects rarely take off without some glitches.

If the promoter is not realistic about problems that could be

experienced, the promoter is probably not being realistic about other things.

Constantly shifting descriptions of the project, or an unclear explanation of the project, should also make the investor wary. While it is not unusual for project parameters to change during the course of development and production, the fundamental aspects of the project should be clear and concise so that an investor knows the goal of the project.

If the original prototype of the project is a type of electric car,

and then the goal changes to manufacturing textiles, that should be a warning sign.

Crowdfunding is an exciting way to get projects off the ground that would otherwise not receive financing. Unfortunately, it can also provide a new medium for scam artists. As always, the best way to protect your investment is research and verification.

For more information on how to crowdfund, got to http://csimt.gov/securities/ capital-formation/equitycrowdfunding/ June 2016

41

Business Business BriefsBriefs Local CommerceLocal at a Glance Commerce at a Glance

H&M opens at Rimrock Mall

The new H&M store, which opened in late April, brings a retailer with an international pedigree to Rimrock Mall.

Mall managers said more than 500 people had gathered by the time the store opened at noon on April 28.

The 23,000-square-foot retail space was most recently occupied

by Herbergers, which completed its move to the former Scheels location last November.

Rimrock Mall spokesman Daron Olson said the opening of H&M represents the culmination of a twoyear process to find new tenants in the wake of a departure by Scheels, which opened a giant stand-alone store at Shiloh Crossing in 2014.

Olson believes that the Billings market will be good to H&M, which opened its first Montana store in Missoula last September.

“H&M is an aggressive retailer and they’re opening a lot of stores internationally,” Olson said. “Billings is a value-based market. People like to find good deals, and this store has lots of them.”

H&M, which started in Sweden, operates in 61 countries, has more than 3,700 stores and employs around 132,000 people.

Glacier Bancorp acquires bank

Glacier Bancorp, Inc. will acquire Treasure State Bank, a community bank based in Missoula.

The acquisition, involving cash and stock, marks Glacier’s 18th

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June 2016

acquisition since 2000 and its sixth announced transaction in the past three years. Treasure State Bank provides banking services to individuals and businesses in the greater Missoula market. As of Dec. 31, 2015, Treasure State Bank had total assets of $71 million, gross loans of $53 million and total deposits of $58 million.

The boards of Glacier and Treasure State Bank unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions of closing. The transaction provides for the payment to Treasure State Bank shareholders of a unit consisting of $1.9570 per share in cash and 0.2030 shares of Glacier common stock.

Based on the closing price of $26.50 for Glacier shares on April 20, the transaction would result in an aggregate value of $12.9 million, or $7.34 per fully diluted Treasure State Bank common share.

As of Dec. 31, 2015, Treasure State Bank had tangible equity of $9.5 million. Upon closing of the transaction, which is anticipated to take place in the third quarter of 2016, the branch of Treasure State Bank will be merged into Glacier Bank and become part of the First Security Bank banking division.

“We are delighted to be adding Treasure State Bank to the Glacier family of banks,” said Mick Blodnick, Glacier’s president and chief executive officer. “This is an exciting opportunity to expand our presence in Missoula by adding some very seasoned and knowledgeable bankers.” Blodnick added, “Treasure State Bank will be a really nice fit

with our existing First Security Bank banking division. They also bring an outstanding branch office, solid earnings, strong customer relationships, and a solid core deposit base.

Jim Salisbury, chairman, president and CEO of Treasure State Bank, commented, “We are excited to become part of the Glacier family of banks. I am pleased to say that Glacier values our employees as much as we do, so our valued customers will see no change in the individual who will greet and service them with their banking needs.”

Oldest Sears store to close

CHICAGO — The longeststanding store in Sears’ chain will close in August after 90 years in operation.

A liquidation sale at the store in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood started May 19, said Sears Holdings spokesman Howard Riefs.

The store opened in November 1925.

A nearby Sears Auto Center will remain open. Eligible employees will receive severance and have the opportunity to apply for open positions at area Sears and Kmart stores, Riefs said.

In April, Sears Holdings, based in suburban Chicago, announced it would close 68 Kmart stores and 10 Sears stores by summer.

“Store closures are part of a series of actions we’re taking to reduce ongoing expenses, adjust our asset base and accelerate the transformation of our business model,” Riefs said.

Corn crop to hit 14B bushels

DES MOINES, Iowa — Farmers are expected to grow a record corn crop this year, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimating the crop at 14.4 billion bushels. That’s 214 million bushels higher than the previous record in the 2014 growing season.

The USDA released its initial estimates for the new crop year on May 10. The agency says corn farmers are expected to plant 93.6 million acres, or about 5.6 million acres more than last year.

If farmers harvest as much as expected, the nation’s corn stockpile will reach the highest level since the mid-1980s at 2.2 billion bushels.

Soybean production is expected at 3.8 billion bushels, down 129 million from last year’s crop. Wheat is projected at nearly 2 billion bushels, down 3 percent from a year ago.

potential shoplifters.

The rollout follows a successful pilot program.

Four years ago, the discounter decided to remove the workers at the front of the store and relocated them to other areas.

Greeters were a tradition that its late founder Sam Walton started.

Aeropostale Inc. files for Chapter 11

NEW YORK — Aeropostale Inc., once a popular mall destination for teens, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, becoming the latest victim in the fast-changing retail landscape.

Aeropostale joins the ranks of teen retailers looking to reorganize under bankruptcy protection including Wet Seal Inc., Pacific Sunwear of California and American Apparel. And like many of these ailing merchants, Aeropostale had been struggling for several years.

Wal-Mart brings The chain has racked up three years of annual losses and five back greeters straight years of annual sales NEW YORK — Those smiley door greeters are back at Wal-Mart. declines for a key measure. Annual sales shrunk to $1.5 billion last year, The nation’s largest retailer down nearly 40 percent from $2.4 said in a blog post this week that billion in 2010. it’s bringing back door greeters to Its shares were delisted by the a majority of its 5,000 stores by New York Stock Exchange after they mid-summer to improve customer were trading for 15 cents. Aeroservice. For stores which have been postale’s stock hit an all-time high of selected as higher risks for thefts, $32.24 in 2010.

Wal-Mart will position a “cusSince the Great Recession, many tomer host,” who will not only greet customers but also check receipts to teen chains have suffered because of fierce competition from the likes prevent theft. That was flagged as a growing problem last year. Those of online players and fast-fashion workers will be trained to help deter retailers such as Forever 21.

Business Briefs Success Stories Recognizing People Local and Commerce Achievements at a Glance

Engineer earns national honor

Carl Anderson, P.E., vice president and operations manager at Morrison-Maierle, received the American Water Works Association’s George Warren Fuller Award at the April 2016 Montana Water Environment Association/Montana Section of the association’s Joint Conference in Bozeman.

The award is the highest honor that a state section of the AWWA can bestow on a member. George Warren Fuller Awards are presented annually to selected members for their distinguished service to the water supply field.

Over the last 30 years, Anderson’s work in the water supply field has served a wide range of communities ranging in population from 1,000 to more than 300,000. Some of his most notable work includes at least six large regional rural water system projects in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota that have brought safe drinking water to tens of thousands of people. He has also worked on projects in Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas and Oklahoma.

In Montana, he has worked on water system improvements for the communities of Bozeman, Billings, Chinook, Crow Agency, Great Falls, Laurel, Lockwood, Red Lodge and Roundup. His numerous water replacement projects for the City of Billings have spanned most of the years from 1995 to 2016, during which time he served as project manager and then a quality assurance reviewer.

Anderson holds bachelor’s and

master’s degrees in civil engineering form Montana State University. For more information, go to m-m.net.

and Human Services for a project to increase immunization rates.

RiverStone Health’s project involved improving a reminder/recall process.

Lovec earns Using the new follow-up system, which included postcards and phone title credential calls, the immunization rates for Ted Lovec of Billings has been 2- to 3-year-olds improved from 54 designated a national title profespercent to 80 percent. The team insional by the American Land Title cludes Brenda Koch; Karmen HamAssociation, the mermeister, R.N.; and Katlynn Reed. national trade association of the land They received the award during the title industry. He is Immunization Regional Workshop in one of 64 land title Billings in late April. industry professionals in the United Chalupa joins LOVEC States to attain this NAMI-Billings designation, which After 20 years of devoted service recognizes land title professionals at the Mental Health Center’s HUB who demonstrate the knowledge, Drop-In Center, experience and dedication essential Joe Chalupa now to the safe and efficient transfer of joins the NAMIreal property. Lovec is the president Billings team as the of Carbon County Abstract & Title executive director.

Co. and American Title & Escrow, a Chalupa has been south central Montana regional title involved in Billings CHALUPA company serving Big Horn, Carbon, Community ConMusselshell, Park, Powder River, nect, Mental Health Rosebud, Treasure and Yellowstone Oversight Advisory Counsel, parcounties. He is an active member of ticipated in the Fund Development the Montana Land Title Association, team at the Mental Health Center, having served as president from 1995 as well as been an active speaker to 1997. He continues to serve on the within the community setting. He Legislative committee, Insurance has shared his wealth of knowledge Commissioner Liaison committee, and resources with growing, young and the Insurance Continuing Edu- minds within the Montana State cation Advisory Council of the State University-Billings ethics class and Auditor’s office. future nursing students. Chalupa has used his large network of community RiverStone support to promote mental health awareness and enhance the lives of team honored those living in poverty/homelessness The RiverStone Health immunization team received a quality and is devoted to making a difference improvement award from the Mon- in many people’s lives through advotana Department of Public Health cacy, mentorship and friendship.

Vicars promoted At US Bank

Michael Vicars has been named private banking relationship manager for the US Bank Private Client Group in Billings. Vicars joined US Bank as a personal banker. Most recently, he served as a private banking assistant relationship manager.

Prior to joining US Bank, he had a background in banking and financial advisory roles in the Billings area.

Stockman hires branch manager

WORDEN — Jami Shaw of Stockman Bank has been promoted to branch manager for the Worden office. Her responsibilities include overseeing bank operations, management and employee supervision, and all lending activities SHAW in Worden. Shaw brings over 31 years of experience to the position that will provide valuable resources not only for customers and potential clients, but for the community as well.

She has been with Stockman Bank since 2009 and was previously the senior loan officer/personnel manager for the Worden office.

She earned her bachelors of science degree in business administration from Montana State University-Billings. She is active in the community as a volunteer for the NILE, as well as a member of the Huntley Project FFA Alumni Association and Worden Community Club, and will continue to be involved in

Stockman Bank related activities.

Shaw is located at 2450 Main Street in Worden and may be reached at 967-3612.

Heggie joins insurance firm

BILLINGS — Brenda Heggie has been hired as an insurance producer/ agent for Stockman Insurance. Heggie, a licensed insurance agent, will be responsible for developing and servicing new client relationships and assisting them with their insurance needs. Stockman Insurance, an affiliate of Stockman Bank of Montana, is a full service insurance agency offering most lines of insurance. Their mission is to become the preferred leader in agribusiness, commercial and personal insurance by serving their clients’ needs with personalized and professional customer service. Heggie brings over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. She is licensed in property, casualty, surety, life, and health.

“We are very excited that Brenda has joined our team” comments KC Keith, Stockman Insurance Vice President and General Manager.

“Brenda’s strength is her knowledge, experience, and availability. She has a great reputation and will be an asset toward the continued growth of Stockman Insurance, benefiting both the customer and our staff.”

Stockman Insurance is located at 14th and Grand Avenue. Heggie can be reached at 655-3974 or (888) 6553974. Stockman Insurance, headquartered in Miles City, has other offices located in Missoula, Conrad, Glendive, Helena, Richey, Stanford, Great Falls, and Worden.

June 2016

43

Residential Permits A., Colgan Construction, $19,600 625 Broadwater Ave., Redwolf, Vernon L., $31,500 209 Yellowstone Ave., Glenn 3976 Parkwood Drive, Trickey, Kristine A., $29,000 David and Mary, Mac Leffler 2916 Canyon Drive, Sharp, Louis Construction, $25,000 P. and Teresa A., $30,240 3942 Second Ave. S., Koino5521 Elysian Road, McCall nia Management Co. LLC, Homes LLC, $30,800 Koinonia Housing Construction 236 Ave. E, Gorton, C. David, Remodel Existing House And $34,650 Add $75,000 606 Bazaar Exchange, Deherre2555 Yellowstone Ave., McKra, Alyssa M., L&L Construceever, Brittany Hove and tion LLC, $23,520 Shane, $14,400 2117 North Place, Molyneaux, 5230 Cabernet Lane, Cole, Daniel Keith A., Kemmick ConstrucG., and Joan A. Pintz, CMW tion, $16,800 Construction, $323,365 617 S. 35 St., Sherrodd, Eugene 4608 Lux Ave., Kottke, Mitch, L. and Brenda L., JRB Con$25,200 struction, $40,320 3237 Ave. F, Reichenberg, Shawn D., Ban Construction Corp., New Single Family $34,800 3405 McMasters Road, Russell Majel, Kisling Quality Builders, 4042 Pathfinder Court, Classic $20,000 Design Homes Inc., $263,140 1034 Custer Ave., Rosh, Ronald 6331 Masters Blvd., Ryan Fleury, B., $240 Halton Homes Inc., $242,780 928 Dixon St., Seal, Philip Jr., 5050 Amherst Drive, Kisling $3,000 Quality Builders, $280,000 3005 Ocotillo Road, Alexander, 5521 Elysian Road, McCall Bearrd Construction, $1466 Homes LLC, $211,437 2826 Oakland Drive, Reed, 3654 Spalding Ave., Aviara Inc., Penelope E., Schaefer Remodel $255,385 And Repair, $960 2910 W. Copper Ridge Loop, Daniels Builders LLC, $211,190 Demolition 3039 Rosebud Drive, Lais Development Inc., Lais Develop16 261 E. Airport Road, Town ment Inc., $213,640 Pump Of Ennis, Cucancic 3095 W. Copper Ridge Loop, Construction Inc., $500 Infinity Homes LLC, $181,240 261 E. Airport Road, Z&B 5315 Cabernet Lane, Steve GouEnterprises Inc., Cucancic tanis, Gountanis Properties Construction Inc., $500 Inc., $298,800 5420 Cabernet Lane, Steve Gountanis, Gountanis ProperNew Garage ties Inc., $279,485 1630 Hidden Cove Lane, McCall 1135 N. 23 St., Spangler, Michael

Addition Single/ Duplex/Garage

44

June 2016

Development Inc., $201,155 1276 Topanga Ave., Grib Real Estate LLC, RJ Mac Homes Inc., $185,995 2909 W. Copper Ridge Loop, Bob Pentecost Construction, $320,000 1636 Island View Drive, McCall Development, $238,160 5942 Foxtail Lane, MJ Construction Inc., $295,070 2530 Meadow Creek Drive, Chapel, Robert Eugene and Debbie, $242,065 1503 Jean Ave, Had Inc., $209,910 2958 W. Copper Ridge Loop, Oakland Built Homes Inc., $161,770 2954 W. Copper Ridge Loop, Oakland Built Homes Inc., $160,245 818 Agate Ave., Daniel D. Mikelson, $18,900 1838 Island View Drive, McCall Development, $165,955 5615 Mountain Front Ave., Trails West Homes LLC, $172,780 930 Sandcherry St., Trails West Homes LLC, $189,270 4634 Elk Ridge Trail, Design Builders Inc., $237,990 4630 Elk Ridge Trail, Design Builders Inc., $237,990 764 Arbor Hills Drive, Kale, William H., Kale Construction Co., $225,190

New Two Family New Two Family

5957 Foxtail Loop W., D&D Siding And Construction, 5957 and 5759 Foxtail Loop, $295,070 5343 Sundance Mountain Circle, Jeff Junkert Construction Inc., 5343 and 5345 Sundance Mountain Circle,

$297,440

O., Reule Builders, $50,000 2910 Stanford Drive, Remodel Single/ Wojciechowski Lou P., The Pella Window Store, $1,200 Duplex/Garage 1720 Broadwater Ave., Neese, Roy Bryan and Gayla A., 2915 Arnold Palmer Drive, WagCraigo, $3,000 ner, Stephen M., One Source 1146 Yale Ave., Judson, $25,000 Construction LLC, $2,000 2715 Beth Drive, Keating, Schwichtenberg, David, $1,900 1521 St. Johns Ave., Krivec, 3328 John O Groats Court, Michale J., Barta Custom Landon, Dean I. and Mary L., Builders $5,000 Big Sky Construction And 2901 Thousand Oaks St., Smith Roofing Inc., $20,000 Rondel Z, K-Designers, $4,747 2523 Longfellow Place, Osborne, 947 Howard Ave., Elite Properties LLC, Wegner Homes, Douglas M. and Jan A., Colossal Construction, $800 $1,200 1002 Toole Circle, Meeker, Paula 6850 Copper Ridge Loop, Copper Ridge Development LLC, Ann, ABC Seamless Of Billings Inc., $9,375 $39,000 2716 McCormick Lane, Marsh, 501 Parkhill Drive, Underriner, William P. and Mary Stephen D. and Lorraine L., S., Schaefer Remodel And Freyenhagen Construction Repair, $2,500 Inc., $13,000 1524 Cheryl St., Brad Hudson, 1346 Valley Forge St., Morrow, $32,000 Kevin D. and Karen, One 1406 Twin Oaks Drive, Schueler, Source Construction LLC, Brenda K., Big Sky Exterior $1,700 Designs Inc., $1,800 838 Yellowstone Ave., Holman James T. and Lillian B., North- 626 Cook Ave., Asphalt Plus Inc., west Custom Improvements, $2,000 $4,000 5240 Burlington Ave., Fisher, 407 Russell Drive, Simpson Courtland William, Clear-Cut Kevin C. Kathy E., K-DesignConstruction LLC, $500 ers, $7,121 3317 McMasters Road, Sorich, 1629 Lone Pine Drive, Grummett Stephen P. Kathryn, The Pella Marion, Win-Dor Industries, Window Store, $2,200 $2,087 2521 Broadwater Ave., Eckstein, 274 Ashley Court S., Cederholm, Mathew R., M. Eckstein Fred and Susan, Win-Dor Contracting, $100 Industries, $2,948 227 E. Alkali Creek Road, Davis, 1940 Toni Drive, Evans, David James M. and Virginia L., W. III, Win-Dor Industries, Win-Dor Industries, $2,668 $2,340 2315 Brentwood Lane, Lincoln, 3100 N. Daffodil Drive, Taylor, Sharon A., Win-Dor Industries, $1,054 16 Gold Pan Richard H. and Sandra L., Lane, Nelson, Karen I., Craigo $1,340 Construction, $1,500 2715 Arvin Road, Kovash Construction LLC, $70,000 139 Monroe St., Williams, Siana 3542 Poly Drive, Peterson, Laura E., One Source Construction

LLC, $2,937 2137 Wyoming Ave., Torres, Osmar L., $1,212 1816 Greystone Drive, Diane L. Redenius Revocable Living Trust, Chi-Custom Home Improvement, $500 2016 Interlachen Drive, Toby Properties, C Squared Construction, $500 2919 Cook Ave., Varhelyi, Andras and Shaylin R., C Squared Construction, $500 116 Lewis Ave., Krueger. Douglas D. and Cherie Ma, The Pella Window Store, $800 390 Morning Glory Drive, Miller, Daniel S., Aaron Johnson Construction, $7,000 2315 Virginia Lane, Galvin, Lisa M., Buerkley Siding And Windows, $8,000 1209 Ave. D, Tripp, Allison A., $10,000 3538 Lynn Ave., Cummins Jeffery S. and Susan H., C Squared Construction, $750 1803 Greystone Drive, Tonnsen, Loretta J., The Pella Window Store, $2,400 2327 Virginia Lane, Sulzbacher, David T. and Pinnacle Services, $1,000 1121 Central Ave., Badura, Brent, Lynnrich Inc., $873 1711 Lynn Ave., Villa, Ricky R. and Lynnett R., $200 2128 Hewitt Drive, Lebrun, Corey and Sharonna, $1,055 2128 Hewitt Drive, Lebrun, Corey and Sharonna, $1,800 1310 Cortez Ave., Chad Holgard, $24,520 1077 Ginger Ave., Harvey, Greg D. and Brenda K., S Bar S Supply Contractor, $28,000 There were 193 Fence/Roof/Siding residential permits issued in April.

Residential Permits Billings area filings in U.S. Bankruptcy Court April 1-30, 2016. Addresses are in Billings unless otherwise noted.

Chapter 7 Carl Frederickson, 2421 East I Road, Ballantine, April 4.

Melissa Abromeit, 304 Cedar

Avenue No.1, Laurel, Travis Anderson, Hayden, Idaho, April 8.

Charles Curtis Shaffer, 2360A U.S. Highway 87 East, April 12.

Pamela Kay Henrichs, 1141 28th St. W. Apartment 26,

April 13.

Brandi Lynn Remme, 1507 Oxbow Circle, April 14.

Robert Theodore Mitchell, 820 April Drive, April 20.

Makandl Duran Whitlock, 38 East First Ave. N, Columbus, April 21.

Jeffery David Burnison, 1279 Yellowstone Avenue, April 21.

Jacob Willis Ray Foos,, 1476 Black Eagle Trail, April 22.

Chale Rennie Clark, 911 Aronson Ave., April 28.

Tammy Annette Yow, 705

Alderson Ave., April 28.

Chapter 13 Kerry Lynn Kearns, 5124 Middle Valley Drive, April 4.

Ronald Dague, 740 Topaz Ave., April 12.

Robert Thomas Spence, Sherri Lynn Spence, 2938 Weaver

Ave., April 14.

Fredrick Thomas Jaqueth, Leslie Ann Jaqueth, 906 Montana Ave., April 15.

Joseph Vincent Ordile, Tracy Lynn Ordile, 4142 Buchanan Ave., April 27.

March 22, Patrol Incident Gear LLC, Pacific, Mo. Mark E. Dobeck and Jacob Fraser, both of Bozeman: Apparatus and method for sampling and analyzing exhaust gas or liquid. 9,291,530, March 22, Techlusion Corp., Belgrade.

Bernard T. Windauer of Kalispell: Locking adjustment knob. 9,292,034, March 22, Leupold & Stevens Inc., Beaverton, Ore. Michael J. Thiesen, Dominic J. Frost, Grant Nelson and Benjamin Echols, all of Bozeman, and Stephen Bush of Missoula: System and method for convergent document collaboration. 9,292,482, March 22, Workiva Inc., Ames, Iowa.

Tor Gudmundsen, Jason Leo Jacob Davidson, Nicholas Patrick Thomas and Alan Glen Stroop, all of Helena: Method and system for providing case update notifications. 9,292,890, March 22, Courtview Justice Solutions Inc., North Canton, Ohio.

Howard David Dean of Columbus, Ohio; Krishnamoorthy Subramanyan of Palentine, Ill.; Alexandros T. Moullas of Thessaloniki, Greece;

and Robert A. Ratcheson of Hamilton: Methods and systems for producing an implant. 9,292,920, March 22, Osteoplastics LLC, Pepper Pike, Ohio.

Jeffrey Scott Maltas of Sibley, Iowa; Ronald G. Story of Irvine, Calif.; Jeffrey D. Tschetter of Sioux Falls, S.D.; Justin C. King of Richland, Mich.; Guy B. Longbrake of Buford, Ga.; and Michael E. Pederson of Lewiston: Labeling brand assembly and method of forming thereof. 9,263,069, March 22, Bedford Industries Inc., Worthington, Minn.

Kevin Alexander of Allyn, Wash.; Michael Bannerman of Ferndale, Wash.; Isaac Burbank of Oakland, Calif.; Braden Copple of Sultan, Wash.; and Kyle Pease of Missoula: System and method for a dynamically configurable power distribution control and management system. 9,293,928, March 22.

David Harriton of Missoula: Ornamental design for a snorkel. D752,109, March 22, StreetCar ORV LLC. Michael Johns and David Yakos, both of Bozeman: Ornamen-

tal design for a fishing rod holder. D752,176, March 22, Michael Johns.

Steve Ventling of Billings: Trusswall installation system and related methods. 9,297,174, March 29.

Timothy R. Feldman of Louisville, Colo.; James Prescott Hughes of Palo Alto, Calif.; and Martin R. Furuhjelm of Hamilton: Command sets and functions. 9,298,521, March 29, Seagate Technology LLC of Cupertino, Calif.

Eddie E. Allen of Manhattan; Thomas D. Strade of Orchard Park, N.Y.; and Christopher Coley of Morgan Hill, Calif.: Method and apparatus for increasing effective contrast ratio and brightness yields for digital light valve image projectors. 9,300,00, March 29, Allen Video Technology Inc., Belair, Md. Michael S. Kazmier of Kalispell: Workflow optimization in preparing C3 broadcast content for dynamic advertising. 9,301,021, March 29, Vubiquity Inc., Reston, Va. Daniel W. Price of Loveland, Ohio; William E. Clem of Bozeman; Matthew C. Miller, Cory G. Kimball, Brennan G. McCabe and Jeffrey

D. Messerly, all of Cincinnati; and Shawn C. Snyder of Greendale, Ind.: Ornamental design for a surgical connector. D752,740, March 29, Ethicon Endo-Surgery LLC, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico.

Stewart Cardon of Whitefish: Overbed table holder system.

9,301,602, April 5.

Thao Ngo of Shakopee, Minn.; Kathleen Kresge of Minneapolis; Michael Kane of Pewaukee, Wis.; and Scott Patrick Simon of Billings: Systems and methods for exploiting pulmonary artery pressure obtained from an implantable sensor to detect cardiac rhythm irregularities.

9,301,702, April 5, Pacesetter Inc., Sylmar, Calif.

Cory G. Kimball of Cincinnati; Daniel W. Price of Loveland, Ohio; William E. Clem of Bozeman; and William D. Dannaher of Suzhou, China: Loading cartridge for surgical instrument and effector.

9,301,772, April 5, Ethicon Endo-Surgery LLC, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico.

Luke R. Mauritsen of Belgrade, and Michael B. Simmonds and Dan Griffing, both of Bozeman: Low vibration cryo-cooled system for low

temperature microscopy and spectroscopy applications.

9,303,914, April 5, Montana Instruments Corp., Bozeman.

Tim J. Watts, Craig R. Landgren and Steven A. Loar, all of Billings, and John Kuhling and Myles Watts, both of Bozeman: Systems, computer implemented methods, geographic weather-data selection interface display, and computer readable medium having program products to generate user-customized virtual weather data and user-customized weatherrisk products responsive thereto. 9,306,811, April 5, Watts and Associates Inc., Billings.

Maggie Myers of Belgrade: Reconfigurable article holder.

9,307,854, April 12.

Charles Richardson and Thomas R. Foubert, both of Bozeman; Thomas S. Vedvick of Federal Way, Wash.; and William T. Tino of Belgrade: Norovirus vaccine formulations.

9,308,249, April 12, Takeda Vaccines Inc., Bozeman.

Bruce Hazeltine of Missoula: Monolithic heat exchanger and apparatus and methods for hydrogenation of a halosilane. 9,308,510, April 12.

Montana patents Below are listed U.S. patents issued to Montana inventors March 22-April 12, 2016. For assistance in patent filing, call Billings patent attorney Antoinette M. Tease at 406294-9000.

Niranjan Ramanlal Gandhi of River Hills, Wis.; Victoria Palmer Skebba of Cedarburg, Wis.; and Gary A. Strobel of Bozeman: Antimicrobial compositions and related methods of use.

9,288,981, March 22, Jeneil Biosurfactant Company LLC, Saukville, Wis. Tom Kobza of Billings: Universal vehicle axle. 9,290,051, March 22.

Rick L. Scheele and Dennis I. Nelson, both of Darby: Air foil systems and methods.

9,290,159, March 22, See II Corp., Darby.

Francis V. Smith of Bozeman: High tonnage trailer combination, trailer components and method of use.

9,290,215, March 22.

Jess Kitchen of Columbia Falls: Transformable bicycle-cart system. 9,290,228, March 22.

Simon L. Golob and Julie A. Golob, both of Glasgow: Weapon sling. 9,291425,

June 2016

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Montana patents continued Daniel J. Woodruff of Kalispell: Component cleaning in a metal plating apparatus.

9,309,603, April 12, APPLIED Materials Inc., Santa Clara, Calif.

Jost Diedrichs of San Diego and Michael Bancroft of Bozeman: Modular architecture

for helium compressors.

9,310,104, April 12, Quantum Design International Inc., San Diego.

Dale Avery Poling of Potomac: Muzzle brake. 9,310,152, April 12, Elite Iron LLC, Potomac.

Thomas Hagan of Boothbay,

O’Donovan, both of Bozeman: Maine; Bruce Tribbensee of Vegas. tion system for multi-channel Gaming system and method 9,311,243, April 12, ActionLee E. Cannon and John P. broadcast program options. for offering simultaneous O’Donovan, both of Bozeman: 9,313,534, April 12, Intertech eer Inc., Charlestown, Mass. play of multiple games.

Gaming system and method Corp., Gering, Neb. Lee E. Cannon and John P. 9,311,783, April 12, IGT, Las for offering simultaneous Jonathan Lee Hoskinson and O’Donovan, both of Bozeman: Vegas. play of multiple games.

Louise Anne Hoskinson, both Gaming system and method William D. Bauer of Gering, 9,311,782, April 12, IGT, Las of Ronan: Ornamental design for offering simultaneous Neb., and David W. Eder of Vegas. for a transition strip corner play of multiple games.

Bozeman: Efficient authorizastructure. D753,843, April 12.

9,311,780, April 12, IGT, Las Lee E. Cannon and John P.

303-968-6770 Enchanted Moon Herbs, Fromberg, 303-968-6770 Powertech Inc., Missoula, 529-6522 Turq & More, 12222 Pryor Road, 200-2152 Done Right Removal LLC, Elwood, Utah, 801-3693314 SD Construction, 317 5th St. W., 425-2451 Branch Building Group LLC, Franklin, Tenn., 615-7919900 K.O.B. Distributing LLC, 710 Grand Ave., Suite 13, 4387999 Montana Parking Lot Striping, 1332 Howard Ave., 855-4960 Bear Mountain Accessories Inc., 419 Daniel St., 8942405 Trophy Cleaning and Restoration, 32 Gold Pan Lane, 307-921-1778 Buttons & Bows 3, 36 Custer Ave., 855-3754 JTT Janitorial, Shepherd, 670-1218 Replay, 401 N. 15th St. Hill Family Lawn Service, 2938 Terry Ave., 6479278 C&S Industries, 3455 Old

Hardin Road, No. 1, 6948437 Billings Advanced Cleaning Solutions LLP, 1212 Harney Drive, 318-7770 Back Roads Construction, 1609 Stirrup Road, 6474688 J&S Enterprises, 4011 Montana Sapphire Drive, 281-2884 Yellowstone Rustic, 354 Aristocrat Drive, Apt. B, 671-2621 Billings Auto Repair And Custom Fabrication, 7552 Burlington Ave., 850-8501 Beauty Outlet & Boutique, 1815 Grand Ave., 8555300 Total Ranch Construction, Shepherd, 670-0912 Whitey Boulders Cleaning Service, 1203 Lake Elmo Drive, No. G230, 224-8899 Clarity Counseling Inc., 1220 Ave. C., Suite F, 861-0950 One Star Construction, 26 Cavalier St. N., 927-9281 TFC Eubank LLC, Midvale, Utah, 801-278-4688 Dewalt Service Center, 3625 S. 56th St. W., Unit A, 652-5512 Superior Striping, 1904 Brian Lane, 697-2417

Business licenses The following business licenses were filed with the city of Billings in April of 2016.

Bogy Inc., 724 Dunham Ave., 252-5146 Salon Avalon, 3210 Henesta Drive, Suite C, 652-4200 MJ’s Formal, 2507 Kimble Drive, No. 9, 534-8157 National Maintenance Service Inc., Branson, Mo., 561253-2410 Spa Reflexology, 710 Grand Ave., Suite 6, 545-3101 Eisele’s Custom Footwear, 2916 Second Ave. N., 8534004 Yellowstone Saddle & Tack, 2916 Second Ave. N., 8535749 Girardot Excavation LLC, 1131 Lynn Ave., 839-0774 H2O 2 Go Mobil Pressure Washing, 1742 Bitterroot Drive, 647-6382 Pro Fit Construction, 320 Viceroy St., 850-0403 Jason Ebarb, 3254 Granger Ave. E., No. K6, 451-1909 Valerie A. Johnson, 406 S. 31st St., 513-293-9023 Christan R. Hurtt, 2220 St. Johns Ave., Apt. C-11, 690-6044 Jason Pednault, Fromberg,

Left Coast Building Services Inc., Visalia, Calif., 559302-0288 The Finishing Touch, 4206 Phillip St., 861-5546 Roofs By Rich, Laurel, 6979918 AWOL, 4183 Vaughn Lane, 591-3613 LGI Construction, 614 Lohwest Lane, Unit 3, 969-6101 The Great American Bagel Co., 327-S. 24th St. W., 656-6618 H&M, 300 S. 24th St. W., 201-428-2242 Sandee’s Drive Inn, 315 Cody Circle, 208-2421 The Meat Shack BBQ, 1216 Eldorado Drive, 855-5642 Brian Grayson, 4619 Rimrock Road, 861-2282 L.P. Anderson Tire West, 1445 41st St. W., 7021600 TBD Trees By Doug, 1525 Tillamack St., 591-4121 Lu Bee’s Decorating Service, 209 Ave. D, 697-4180 Aftermath Reconstruction LLC, 651 Lambrecht Lane, 698-3609 New Image Energy, 2230-1/2 Rosebud Drive, 671-4717 I.B.A., 132-3/4 Charlene St.,

200-4237 L&S Lawn Service LLC, 4248 Waterford Drive, 6984979 Gallogly Construction, 3435 Wasco Ave., 591-3955 Gatsby Ventures LLC, 120 S. 29th St., 647-0397 Pour To Ridge, Park City, 647-6494 Caribbean Coffee Hut LLC, 760 S. 20th St. W., 6703796 Agate Inc., Scottsdale, Ariz., 994-9455 Cold Stone Creamery-Billings, 896 S. 29th St. W. Ralph Rodriguez, 815 Custer Ave., 321-0346 Energy Sales & Consulting, 423 Cook Ave., 861-1683 Strizich Ice Cream, 4546 Laredo Place, 560-0630 Playhard Laser Solutions, 4616 Gros Ventre Trail, 850-3335 Onsite Energy Inc., Bozeman, 551-6135 Elevate Nutrition, 2212 Golden Blvd., 794-2908 A&E Ultimate Floral Designs, Laurel, 548-4406 Msandibug’s Cleaning LLC, 18 Sheri Lane, 371-5159 CNG Construction, Laurel, 591-5659

Details Matter, 35 Custer Ave., 855-4600 Western Art Forum Inc., 2700 Second Ave. N., 6611030 Facility Solutions Management & Consulting LLC, 3916 Heritage Drive, 696-9208 Security Solutions Inc., Bozeman, 388-7774 Slim’s Road Service, 2130 Harnish Blvd., 671-0396 Lala Loved, 2601 Howard Ave., 927-6838 Scarlett Jade Designs, 1504 Silver Run Trail, 927-9115 R&R Sales, 228 Wyoming Ave., 259-8051 Level One Roofing, 337 31st St. W., 839-8712 DL Morse And Associates Inc., Muskegon, Mich., 231719-8328 Cris Pruitt LLC, 115 N. 28th St., No. 302, 927-5407 Golden Daisy Boutique, 3014 Laredo Place, 696-0807 John Allenbaugh, 2355 Ave. C., No. 10, 633-0517 Wilson Dunham Automotive, 138 Moore Lane, 2482838

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June 2016

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In the Community to Serve®

Commercial permits Addition 27 Wicks Lane, Tall Bruce and Shelley, Bruce Tall Construction And Design Inc., $2,310 Demolition 261 E. Airport Road, Town Pump Of Ennis, Cucancic Construction Inc., $10,000 2010 Henesta Drive, TFC Eubank LLC, $28,000 5400 Laurel Road, Stockton Oil Co., Marimor Inc., $11,800

Fence/Roof/Siding 2228 Grand Ave., Winchell Properties LLC, Empire Roofing Inc., $39,000 1945 Grand Ave., Valco LLC, Bradford Roof Management Inc., $60,000 1833 Grand Ave., Ray, John M., Cascade Rain Gutters, $2,500 1810 Shiloh Road, Shiloh United Methodist Church, $33,000 1235 N. 26 St., West, Gayle L., Cory Simons Construction, $40,000 910 Broadwater Ave., Simek, George L. and Kathy S., Empire Roofing Inc., $8,100 5230 Golden Hollow

Road, Lundeen, Premier Exteriors, $13,000 1709 Ave. B, Doris M. Hoy Trust, Dynamic Innovations LLC, $6,885 5248 Golden Hollow Road, McCall Development Inc., Premier Exteriors, $18,000 235 Moore Lane, Fisher, Shirley E., Trustee, Empire Heating & Cooling, $39,987 821 16th St. W., Pollock, Gary, Sprague Construction, $15,000 2147 Overland Ave., Montana District Council Of The Assemblies of God, Roof Solutions, $34,110 78 27th St. W., Central Court Village LTD, Black Canyon Builders LLC, $6,000 332 S. Plainview St., Associated Food Stores Inc., Capital Roof & Construction LLC, $15,500 332 S. Plainview St., Associated Food Stores Inc., Capital Roof & Construction LLC, $16,300 1300 24th St. W., Promised Land Enterprises, S Bar S Supply Contractor, $4,000

New Church/School 2202 Colton Blvd., Roman Catholic Bishop Of Great

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Falls, Langlas & Associates Inc., $13,061,905

New Hospitals/ Institutions 1630 Inverness Drive, Earthtone Holdings LLC, Christianson & Muller, $1,100,000

New Other 2510 38th St. W., Boulder Arrowhead, Billings Electric, $25,000 2980 King Ave. W., Billings Properties LLC, Jares Fence Co. Inc., $21,459

New Restaurant/ Casino/Bar New Restaurant/Casino/Bar 261 E. Airport Road, Z&B Enterprises Inc., Cucancic Construction Inc., $1,150,000

New Store/ Strip Center 180 S 32 St. W., MLZ LLP, Neumann Construction, $673,080 524 Liberty St., Freedom

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Montana LLC, EEC Inc., $185,500 1002 Shiloh Crossing Blvd., G&R Investments Properties LLC, Jones Construction Inc., $517,420

$35,000 2675 Central Ave., Lamplighter Square LLC, Jones Construction Inc., $8,000 1643 Lewis Ave., Corning Land Co., C Squared Construction, $2,500 300 S. 24 St. W., Riddle’s Group Inc., Riddle’s Jewelry, New Townhomes $60,000 2800 10th Ave. N., Billings (3 or More Units) Clinic, Hardy Construction Co., $450,000 1860 Songbird Drive, McCall 1500 University Drive, State Development, $1,260,690 Of Montana, General Remodel Contractors Construction 112 N. 28th St., Fisher Co. Inc., $142,159 Construction Inc., $95,000 2917 Millennium Circle, Neil 1441 Governors Blvd., School Johnson Farms, EEC Inc., District No. 2, Star Service $30,000 Inc., $580,000 2822 Minnesota Ave., Montana 2800 10 Ave. N., Billings Rescue Mission, $500 Clinic, Bauer Construction, 300 S. 24th St. W., Rimrock $120,000 Owner LP, National 1200 30th St. W., School Maintenance Service Inc., District No. 2, Ace Electric $45,700 Inc., $350,000 1116 N. 28th St., Sisters Of 3429 Briarwood Blvd., Charity Of Leavenworth, The Briarwood, Jones Jones Construction Inc., Construction Inc., $18,000 $10,000 1327 Main St., Popelka 425 N. 18th St., Montana Enterprises LLC, Jones Rail Link, B&B Disaster Construction Inc., $25,000 Restoration & Carpet 2333 Central Ave., Cleaning, $10,000 McDonald’s Real Estate Co., 2411 Village Lane, Dialysis Langlas & Associates Inc., Clinic Inc., $200,000 $20,000 2912 Third Ave. N., Billings 332 S. Plainview St., Montana Parking Associated Food Stores Inc., Commission, Restocon Dick Anderson Construction, Corp., $309,201 Interior Demolition, 2651 First Ave. N., The City

MOBILE

TABLET

Of Billings, Restocon Corp., $309,201 210 N. 27th St., The City Of Billings, Restocon Corp., $309,201 2822 Minnesota Ave., Montana Rescue Mission, $6,185 3953 Montana Ave., Jim Kisling, $30,000 2223 Montana Ave., McCrone, Elina G., Action Electric Inc., $2,000 2940 Poly Drive, Mayflower Congregational Church, Fisher Construction Inc., $38,000 4011 Montana Sapphire Drive, Yeley Holdings LLC, Hulteng Inc., $35,000 1595 Grand Ave. Boardman, Westpark LLC, Fisher Construction Inc., $75,000 1001 Second Ave. N., Green Leaf Land & Livestock Co., $20,000 1739 Spring Creek Lane, Ortho Montana, Capital Development Inc., $16,000 Remodel — Change In Use 117 N. 28th St., Robertson, Jeff and Donna, Capital Roof & Construction LLC, $26,000

APPS

June 2016

Q47

Resources to Make YOUR BUSINESS GROW Construction Loans Lines of Credit Equipment & Building Loans

King Ave 655-2700 © 2016 Stockman Bank

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June 2016

Hilltop & Main 896-4800

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Shiloh & Grand 655-3900

Downtown 655-2400

14th & Grand 371-8100

Worden 967-3612

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