Billings Business Oct. 14 by Billings Gazette

5 MINUTES WITH

MAGNUS JOHNSON TAPNOTE

INAUGURAL CLASS

MONTANA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME

October 2014

ON THE

MOVE Billings retailers moving, expanding at rapid pace so far in 2014

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

CONTENTS

October 2014

An indispensable business resource On the Cover Mike Craighill, owner of Soup and Such, looks over the restaurant’s new location in the Shops at Shiloh Crossing.

Photo by Casey Page

FEATURES

On the move.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6 Billings retailers moving, expanding at rapid pace so far in 2014

Montana Business Hall of Fame ................................................................................................................................................ 16 Inaugural class to be honored on Oct. 2

Construction industry working to recruit women............................................................................................... 20 Name change..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 37 CVS Health’s plan to halt tobacco sales COLUMNS

Sales Moves..........................................................................................................................................................................................................12

24 Hour Emergency Flood & Fire Restoration Services Commercial & Residential

Jeffery Gitomer - Get your social selling mojo in gear, or you’ll be lost CVS CEO: We’re doing more and more to extend the front lines of health care Page 16

Travel & Leisure................................................................................................................................................................................................14 Billie Ruff - Follow these tips to pack the perfect carry-on bag

Personal Finance ............................................................................................................................................................................................15 Shelly Gams - Make sure your timing is right when filing for Social Security

Better Business.................................................................................................................................................................................................24 Erin T. Dodge - Background checks can provide a measure of protection against crime

Technology..............................................................................................................................................................................................................38 Shaun Brown - Beware of these telltale signs of computer viruses

Economic Development.........................................................................................................................................................................42 Allison Corbyn - BSED’s 25-year history is full of accomplishments BILLINGS BUSINESS EVERY MONTH

From the Editor.......................................................................................................................................................................................................4 By the numbers .....................................................................................................................................................................................................5

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The local economy at a glance

Five Minutes with...........................................................................................................................................................................................10 Magnus Johnson - TapNote

Billings Business is mailed each month

Chamber News................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13

to area business owners, managers and

Business Briefs .................................................................................................................................................................................................39

To subscribe, please send payment, name, business name,

Todd Buchanan - Safety levy will help Billings services keep up with its growth

Success Stories................................................................................................................................................................................................41 Page 10 Magnus Johnson

I October 2014

The Listings............................................................................................................................................................................................................43

decision makers for $19.95 per year. mailing address and phone number to:

Billings Business 401 North Broadway Billings, MT 59101 BILLINGSbusiness

Billingsbusiness

October 2014

the editor

F OLLOW THESE TIPS FOR 40 U NDER F ORTY NOMINATIONS

October 2014 • VOLUME 21 • NUMBER 1

mike gulledge tom howard COPY EDITOR chris jorgensen GENERAL MANAGER allyn hulteng PUBLISHER

October is always a busy time at Billings Business because it represents the month-long nomination period for the annual 40 Under Forty awards. This popular special section, to be published next February in Billings Business and in a Sunday edition of the Billings Gazette, highlights some of the Billings area’s best and brightest business professionals. With the nomination period at hand, I’m frequently inundated with questions from people who want to nominate themselves or somebody they know. So, in an effort to keep readers and potential nominees informed, here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about the nomination and selection process for 40 under Forty: When is the nomination period? Oct. 1 through Oct. 31. How do I nominate somebody for 40 Under Forty? The nomination form is on the web at www.billingsbusiness.com. You must fill out the online form. We don’t accept nominations by phone, mail or email. Is it OK to nominate yourelf? Absolutely. I want to make sure that you received my nomination form. How do I do that? Drop me an email: editor@billingsbusiness.com. Throughout the month our technical staff keeps me informed on how many people have been nominated. It may take a day or two for me to get back to you. Does it improve somebody’s chances of being selected if more than one person nominates them? In general, no. In some contests, winners are selected based on how many votes they receive. In 40 Under

I October 2014

Forty, several factors come in to play in the selection process. I never went to college. Does that mean I have no chance of being picked? Previous winners have come from all walks of life. Some have completed master’s degrees. Others earned their experience through the school of hard knocks. I was nominated previously for 40 Under Forty but wasn’t selected. Am I still eligible? You are still eligible as long as you meet the age requirement, which means that you must be no older than 39 years old as of Feb 1, 2015. Are previous winners eligible again? Sorry, no repeat winners. How many people are nominated each year? Typically, hundreds of people. How are the winners selected? Nominees are asked to fill out and return a questionnaire. Although several factors are considered in the process, winners are selected in part by how they respond to the questionnaire. Do you have to pay for being selected? There is no charge. However, advertising supports this section. Employers, friends and family are contacted about purchasing a congratulatory ad. When will I know whether I’ve been selected? Winners are usually informed around Thanksgiving. Interviews are conducted and photos are taken usually in December. Will being named to 40 Under Forty make me rich and famous? There are no guarantees, but it’s a source of pride for most winners. Many of them have gone on to accomplish amazing things.

EDITOR

SALES

dave worstell ryan brosseau RETAIL SALES MANAGER shelli scott ADVERTISING SALES gail ball ADVERTISING COORDINATOR linsay duty

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR CLASSIFIED MANAGER/ONLINE MANAGER

PRODUCTION

DESIGNER CREATIVE DIRECTOR

alyssa small bob tambo

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 North Broadway Billings, MT 59101 ADVERTISING For retail advertising call Gail Ball 657-1284. For classified advertising, call 657-1212. Advertising deadline for the November 2014 issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7. 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 e-mail 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.

BILLINGSbusiness

Personal

By the Numbers

Business

LocaL and regionaL economic trends

real estate Member FDIC

agriculture Hilltop & Main 896-4800

Shiloh & Grand 655-3900

LAND VALUES CLIMBING

Downtown 655-2400

In hundred thousands

150

100

50 June

March to August 2013

July

March to August 2014

June

July

August

Glacier National Park

2014

Ag prices

May to August 2013 May to August 2014 May to August 2013 May to August 2014

Source: Montana Department of Transportation

Unemployment

Montana Beef Cattle

(per bushel)

August

Missoula

May to August 2013 May to August 2014

Source: National Park Service

Montana winter wheat

July

May to August 2013 May to August 2014

Bozeman

May to August 2013 May to August 2014

2013

June

Billings

Yellowstone National Park

Source: City of Billings

$8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

May

YTD Through Aug. 31

August

May

0 May

200

246

250

311

300

350

New single-family home building permits

April

Billings housing starts

March

Source: National Agricultural Statistics Service

Worden 967-3612

Airport boardings

National park visitors

The value of agricultural land in the United States climbed to $2,950 per acre in 2014, an increase of 8.1 percent from a year earlier.

14th & Grand 371-8100

In thousands

King Ave 655-2700

www.stockmanbank.com

(per cwt.) $175

150 125

100 75

50 25 March

April

May

June

July

Aug.

March to August 2013 Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Billingsbusiness

0 March

April

May

March to August 2014

June

July

Aug.

February

March

Montana

April

May

Yellowstone County

June

July

U.S.

Source: Montana Department of Labor and Industry

October 2014

ON THE

MOVE Billings retailers moving, expanding at rapid pace so far in 2014 BY TOM HOWARD A ROOMY NEW VENUE IN THE S HOPS AT S HILOH C ROSSING IS LIKE A BLANK CANVAS FOR RESTAURANT OWNERS M IKE AND A NTONIA C RAIGHILL .

Mike Craighill, owner of Soup and Such, looks over the restaurant’s new location in the Shops at Shiloh Crossing. Photos by CASEY PAGE

I October 2014

BILLINGSbusiness

The West End Soup and Such restaurant, set to open this fall, will feature walls splashed with chartreuse and mango. Natural wood accents will be visible throughout the dining area, and the floor will be a natural brown. “Were really excited and anxious, just buzzing with anticipation,” Mike said. After the new Soup and Such opens, the downtown restaurant will receive a makeover, using similar colors and finishes, the Craighills said. “In the past, we’ve done all of our own decorating, so this is different for us,” Mike said. The couple’s eight-year journey in the Billings restaurant business began in 2006 when they opened their first Soup and Such store in the Heights. They expanded to downtown Billings in 2008, where they found a steady and growing clientele. But they ended up closing the Heights location because they lost their lease. The closure of the Heights location provided Antonia with the opportunity to open Velvet Cravings, a downtown cupcake bakery, in 2012. Heeding pleas from loyal customers who have been lobbying for Soup and Such to return to the Heights, the Craighills looked at a couple of vacant properties in the Heights. But nothing met their needs. Their thoughts of expansion took a turn when Mike learned about the new 42,000-square-foot Shops at Shiloh Crossing development that was announced last spring. The $7.2 million development, adjacent to the new Scheels store, has been touted for its appeal to female shoppers. The Craighills liked the idea of joining a high-traffic retail destination, where their customer base will include shoppers, moviegoers and even employees at the new Scheels store. Another factor in the decision to expand to the West End was the excitement surrounding a retail center that’s designed to pull customers off of Interstate 90. “Some landlords have a way of saying no to everything. Steve (Corning) always manages to find a way to say BILLINGSbusiness

yes,” Mike said. “Steve said they were looking for established businesses to locate there, and that interested us. A lot of our neighbors are going there, too.” The new retail center will feature local tenants NeeCee’s women’s clothing store, Party America, weight-loss clinic Balanced Diet by Elementa, women’s clothing store Meridian Limited and Country Cottage. Simply Wine, which recently exited the Rimrock Mall area, is also moving to Shiloh Crossing. Running two stores means that the Craighills are adding employees. Kyra Alderman, who has 14 years of experience in the restaurant business, was recently hired as manager of the downtown Soup and Such. “Our vision is to have me float back and forth between the two stores, but I imagine I will be out (on the West End) quite a bit at the beginning,” Mike said. The downtown Soup and Such has traditionally catered to downtown workers. The Shiloh Crossing store will also feature soup and a salad bar, “But we’ll try to do a few different things to appeal to our evening customers,” Mike said. Yes, the new store will offer dessert, but not Velvet cupcakes, Antonia said. The opening of Shops and Shiloh has helped spur a flurry of relocations, openings and closings within the Billings retail market. Restaurants , clothing stores, home furnishing stores and a variety of other outlets have announced moves, expansions and openings heading into the fourth quarter of 2014. While Shiloh Crossing has been the catalyst for much of the growth, other parts of Billings continue to draw interest. Kristi Grob is busy opening a second location for Pita Pit restaurant in downtown Billings at 2813 Second Ave. “This is a really exciting time in Billings,” Grob said, referring to the surge of business openings and relocations. “We have wanted to open in downtown for a long time. I just love what has been happening downtown. It’s so vibrant and fun. I love the farmer’s market and all of the street festivities.”

Photos by CASEY PAGE With sheetrock going up and painting on the way, the Soup and Such restaurant at Shiloh Crossing is scheduled to open this fall.

Pita Pit’s store at 22289 Grand Ave. has been going strong for eight years, and will remain open. The downtown Pita Pit will remain open until 3 a.m. Friday and Saturday nights. “It’s kind of a Pita Pit thing to cater to the late-night crowd, at least on Friday and Saturday night,” Grob said. Grob said she has experienced managers who will get the new store up and running, likely by the end of the year, and some of her existing employees have expressed an interest in working at both stores. A new martini bar, Doc Harper’s, is opening in downtown Billings. Another established downtown business, Paula’s Edibles, has moved from downtown to 1431 Country Manor Blvd., Suite 2. Other areas of Billings have been on a rebound in 2014. West Park Promenade achieved a long-sought anchor tenant when Lucky’s Market opened last spring. Chipotle, the Denver-based chain that specializes in quick-serve Mexican food, has broken ground on a 4,592-square-foot restaurant at West Park Promenade.

Mike and Antonia Craighill are excited about their new Soup and Such location at Shiloh Crossing.

Retail rebound Here are some of the major retail additions added to the Billings market in 2014:  Scheels at Shiloh Crossing: 220,000 square feet  Shops at Shiloh Crossing: 42,304 square feet  Rimrock GMC Cadillac: 30,000 square feet  Lucky’s Market: 26,000 square feet  Empire Parking Garage: 15,600 square feet  Chipotle Restaurant: 4,592 square feet

October 2014

Big Sky Economic Development Annual Meeting “Building Remarkable” Event Schedule Oct. 9 MetraPark Pavilion 8-11:20 a.m. Building success workshops — Six free workshops targeted at topics facing small businesses today. 11:30-1:30 Building remarkable luncheon Celebrating 25 years of BSED Keynote Speaker: Larry Simkins, president and CEO of Washington Companies

SPONSORED BY THE BIG SKY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

BSED’ S 25- YEAR HISTORY

Register at www.buildingremarkable.com. Cost is $35 per person for lunch and workshops are free Oct. 10-12 Building entrepreneurs start-up weekend Rocky Mountain College, Losekamp Hall Friday starts at 5:30 p.m. and continues through Sunday at 7 p.m. Register at www.startupweekend.org.

IS FULL OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Trying to capture what this organization has accomplished in the past 25 years is no easy task.

Allison Corbyn Allison Corbyn is the Business Recruitment Project Manager at Big Sky Economic Development. She can be reached by e-mail at corbyn@bigskyeda.org or 406-869-8420.

I October 2014

This year, Big Sky Economic Development celebrates 25 years of service to our community. While we take a moment to reflect on our organization’s rich and dynamic history, we also look forward to the next 25 years in which we will strive to build remarkable. In 1988, Yellowstone County Commissioners commissioned a Public Opinion Survey. One of the questions in the random survey was “Would you support a tax increase if the proceeds were used to support economic development efforts, creating jobs and improving the overall economy?” A “yes” was voiced by an overwhelming 79 percent of those surveyed. As a result, the commissioners passed a resolution in December of 1989 creating the Montana Tradeport Authority. They appointed a nine-member board and setting up a nomination process consisting of representation from the county, cities of Billings and Laurel, and an individual at large. The resolution included the levying of the two mills to support its operation. The initial board was formed, the first executive director was hired and

operations began. In 1992, the Tradeport consolidated the economic planning efforts in Yellowstone County and merged the Billings Area Business Incubator (BABI), the Yellowstone County Economic Development Department, and the Procurement Technical Assistance Program within the Tradeport structure. Later, in April of 1998, the Montana Tradeport Authority became Big Sky Economic Development Authority and in 2002 the organization added the private corporation that includes the Small Business Administration 504 loan program as well as the member investor program. Today, Big Sky Economic Development includes the Small Business Development Center, the Business Expansion & Retention team, the Business Finance program, the Procurement & Technical Assistance Center, New Business Recruitment, & Community Development. Trying to capture what this organization has accomplished in the past 25 years is no easy task. Big Sky Economic Development has had its hand in — or has been instrumental in — the

financing of Deering Clinic’s building on South 27th Street (now RiverStone Health), low-income housing in Ballantine and Worden, the Yellowstone River Greenway Project, Motor Sports Park’s Development Plan, land and infrastructure for Transtech

Center, the rehabilitation of The Billings Depot, siting Bresnan Communications in Billings, the GE Capital Building, the East Billings Urban Renewal District Master Plan, the Exposition Gateway Concept Plan, FedEx’s Distribution Center,

more than $57 million in SBA 504 loans and the counseling of hundreds of businesses, to name just a few. Please join us on Oct. 9 at 11:30 a.m. as we celebrate our “remarkable community.” Register today at www. buildingremarkable.com.

RemaRkable R Re

™

we’re celebrating

25 Years

as yellowstone county’s economic development organization thank you for your support!

40 6 . 256 .6 87 1

www.buildingremarkable.com

BILLINGSbusiness

RemaRkable R

™

we’ re celeb r ating

25 Years! 25 th Anniversary Celebration Events

Oc tO b er 9, 2014 • M e tr apar k ’ S M O ntana pavi li O n

Building Success RemaRkable

™

w o R k s h o p s 8 a m to 1 1 :1 5 a m » Every business could use a little help. Check out one or all of these free workshops. Hurry, space is limited!

luncheon

1 1 :30 a m

1:00pm

» MeMber Investors: To RSVP for your complimentary tickets, please email Melanie Schwarz at Melanie@bigskyeda.org.

» PublIc: Additional tickets for Member Investors and the General Public are available for $35 each and may be reserved at www.buildingremarkable.com.

s ta R t u p w e e k e n d O c tO b er 1 0 -1 2 , 2 01 4 Starts at 5 : 3 0 p m on 1 0/ 1 0 , ending evening of 1 0/ 1 2 r O c k y M O u n ta i n cO l l eg e , lO S ek a M p H a l l

» Calling all Entrepreneurs! Have an idea you want to hash

through and pitch to investors? This is the weekend for you!

4 0 6 . 25 6 . 6 87 1 Billingsbusiness

w w w. buildingre markable .com October 2014

Magnus Johnson

Starting young BY TOM HOWARD

to it, you can work around the diabetes part. I’ve been swimming ever since the sixth grade. Do you remember when you first started using computers? I think when I was really little it started with animations, making M AGNUS J OHNSON GOT A JUMP ON A movies. My first computer-generated thing was a little flash animaBUSINESS CAREER YEARS BEFORE HE WAS OLD tion, and from there I started learning how to make websites, and once I figured that out, I created a business, MagMHJ LLC. Since then, I’ve ENOUGH TO DRIVE . H IS COMPANY , M AG MHJ been making websites and creating apps. How long did it take you to develop TapNote? LLC, IS A TECHNOLOGY COMPANY THAT It probably took me a year in development, but that’s including multiple versions. The first version I just SPECIALIZES IN WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT AND stopped, because I didn’t know enough to complete OTHER SERVICES . TapNote at the time. But then I picked it up a couple months later after learning a few things and then I Working from his home, the youngster had lined up numerous clients completed it to deployment. by the time he was 11, while also juggling more typical kid activities such as How did you learn more? Was it by reading school, music lessons and sports. up on the subject, asking for help? So what does this precocious entrepreneur do for an encore now that he’s With software, the longer you’re exposed to it, 17? the more you learn about it. Whenever you’re puzzled For one thing, his business has branched out to include developing apps by something, you can look up the answer on the Internet for smartphones and tablets. easily, but the more repeatedly you need that answer, the The App Store has been carrying four of his apps. The one that’s generat- more ingrained in your memory it becomes. It just becomes ing a lot buzz is a music composition app known as TapNote. part of your knowledge base. As Johnson explains it, TapNote can help beginners understand musical When did you pick up music? concepts. But it’s also popular with advanced users who may want to develop I’ve been playing violin since I was 4. I still play the truma musical score. pet, and I’ve been teaching myself a little guitar. Music has Johnson sat down with Billings Business recently to discuss his budding just always been one of my interests. I thought this app is business, as well as his plans for the future. the first step of me being able to teach music to people who TapNote appears to meld your interest in music and technology. want to learn how to write music. Correct? Who would benefit most from TapNote? Really, what I’ve done with TapNote is merge three major areas of my life. I think it might be best for educators and students. I’m There’s music, technology and also diabetes. I put TapNote on three iPads even thinking of going to some elementary schools and and ran a TapNote workshop at diabetes camp. I pretty much taught kids showing it to kids in music class, because it’s simple enough who had diabetes how to write music, which was the goal. I felt like I needed for kids to understand, but it also has enough advanced to do a humanitarian thing with this to prove that it’s a useful tool. features for more advanced users. What was it like to receive that difficult diagnosis? What are your career plans? I was diagnosed in second grade, while I was 7 years old. At the time it was I’m definitely interested in computer engineering, but difficult. Neither of my parents knew what to do, and for the first six months I’m also interested in biology and medical science. My idol it was pretty hectic. But you get used to things. Even though diabetes is tech- is Elon Musk (founder of Tesla Motors, SpaceX and other nically a disability, I’ve learned a lot of useful things from having diabetes. high-tech ventures). I’m really into engineering and I want What have you learned? to figure out how physical machines work. Most importantly knowing your limits as an individual. I swam with the Elon was here for the economic summit in Butte, and that swim team for a long time, and diabetes was limiting. But once you got used was pretty cool.

I October 2014

Magnus Johnson Photo by HANNAH POTES

BILLINGSbusiness

Top Performing Hospital

Billingsbusiness

October 2014

SALES moves

G et your social selling mojo in gear , or you ’ ll be lost

... companies that have chosen to embrace and engage cloud, analytics, mobile, and social strategies are cleaning the clock of their competitors ...

Jeffrey Gitomer Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of The Sales Bible and The Little Red Book of Selling. Reach him at 704-333-1112 or email salesman@gitomer.com

I October 2014

Here are a few questions to get your social sales juices flowing: Why are big companies interested in big data? Why are formerly nonsocial companies suddenly scouring and analyzing social data? Why is “mobile” the new “social?” Why is “cloud” the new data room? Often referred to as pacesetters, companies that have chosen to embrace and engage cloud, analytics, mobile, and social strategies are cleaning the clock of their competitors who have chosen the path of cautious resistance or even abstinence. NOTE WELL: The real pacesetters are using all four strategies – not one or two. PERSONAL NOTE: When I saw the statistic that 68 percent of Facebook usage is mobile, I realized the revolution was in full swing and those not playing hard would lose sales, loyalty, goodwill, reputation, and profit. REALITIES: n Customers are smarter. You must be at least as smart. n Customers are social. You must be at least as social. n Customers are mobile. You must be at least as mobile. n The availability of online information about you AND your competition is instant. n Customers expect an easy-to-buy process.

breakaway move. BOTTOM LINE FOR FASTER SUCCESS: Pacesetter organizations are now finding partners in a myriad of places including academia, start-ups, clients, citizen developers, and established specialized leaders. Pacesetter corporations that integrate cloud, analytics, mobile, and social technologies across their business are four to seven times more likely to use cloud to deliver social, mobile, big data, and analytics. In short, pacesetters use technology for the competitive advantage and the results are more profitable business outcomes. Here are a few concepts beyond buzzwords that will help you think about and understand why these strategies are being deployed and n Mobile is not an option – also found that the gaps in IT bringing amazing returns: skills that used to exist within it’s an imperative. 1. Cloud strategies: Where n 24-7-365 is the new 9-5. these core segments are startcan I store data and apps that ing to narrow as organizations My good friend, Sandy are accessible on demand Carter, is one of IBM’s general are uncovering the skill sets globally? needed to use these technolomanagers, and their social 2. Social strategies: How gies to their full advantage. selling evangelist. Sandy fed am I in touch with my cusTHE SECRET: These big tomers to give them informame some support data from pacesetter corporations have tion and social proof, and how the recently published IBM discovered that by partnering can they be in touch with me 2014 Business Tech Trends Report. The report reveals that with smaller, specialized com- to tell me all is well? panies they are able to obtain previously emerging trends 3. Mobile strategies: What the critical skills they need to are my customers using to like Big Data and analytics, gain a competitive advantage communicate ideas, needs, cloud, mobile, and social — thus paving the way for in- and desires? How are they acare now being implemented novation and increased mar- cessing my information? How across corporate enterprise beyond just experimentation ket share. They also learned are they purchasing? that total integration of all four and wait-and-see. 4. Analytics strategies: pacesetter elements was their Data helps make better and The Tech Trends Report

smarter decisions. Data shows the past, reveals the present, and helps predict trends in the future. Another word for analytics is profit. REALITY: An app without analytics is a washing machine without a motor or a car without gas. How is your EXISTING data being mined, analyzed, and used to target trends, analyze profits, and increase sales? 4.5 Partnering strategies: How are you using SEO experts, app builders, bloggers, and social awareness companies — global outside experts — that can help you achieve amazing success in a fraction of the time (and cost) it would take to do it yourself? YOUR BOTTOM LINE: Now is the time to get your social mojo working in your favor. The opportunity is ripe and the expertise you need is at your fingertips. Carter told me, “The companies we deal with that listen to us with ‘all ears’ and eagerly implement the pacesetter solutions quickly convert their investment to ‘all clicks’ as their social interactions skyrocket and sales quickly follow suit.” How’s your conversion doing? “Get involved and get more.” If you search the hashtag IBMBTT you’ll be able to access pacesetter ideas and answers – and maybe add a few of your own. Billingsbusiness

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

SPONSORED BY THE BILLINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND CVB

October Business After Hours Wednesday, Oct. 8. Anytime Fitness, Westend 24th & Broadwater, 5-7 pm. Cost is $8.

S AFETY LEVY WILL HELP B ILLINGS SERVICES KEEP UP WITH ITS GROWTH

If the city is growing, why aren’t we generating enough tax revenue to keep up with this growth?

Todd Buchanan Todd Buchanan is with Buchanan Capital in Billings. Contact him at todd@ buchanancapitalinc.com

BILLINGSbusiness

As we read national headlines about stagnant economic activity around the country, Billings has been marching a path of steady growth. This growth provides local businesses, workers and families opportunities many parts of the world would envy. We report 3.6 percent unemployment, one of the lowest regionally and across the nation. Local job growth and real estate appreciation have kept one of the most consistent paces of appreciation in the country. Billings is growing. As we become a larger and more vibrant city we cannot be naïve to believe that we will be immune to the challenges and issues larger cities face. It feels like we are already experiencing them as we see an increase in what we consider big-city crimes, such as violent crimes, home invasions, burglaries, transient issues and, as reported recently, a growing drug problem in our region. To date, our law enforcement officials do a very good job at solving these crimes and apprehending the offenders, working incredibly hard to stay ahead of these growing issues. But can they stay ahead of it? Can Billings be safer? Of course it can, and as citizens of this city we will have an opportunity to support one

proposal to equip us to do so as we consider the proposed safety levy. This election period we will vote on a budget proposal from the city to sustain our current public safety investments and add enough resources to the police and fire departments to address the expected growth over the next 10 years. In 2004 voters approved the most recent investment into public safety, and in recent years the city has grown the percentage of the general fund to the highest level in those 10 years to help keep up with the growing demand on these departments. If the city is growing, why aren’t we generating enough tax revenue to keep up with this growth? Legislation took effect six years ago that changed the amount of tax revenue a city can keep relative to what is generated locally. With a population of just over 108,000, we live in a city which acts as a service hub for hundreds of thousands more, which is great for our local businesses. The state of Montana changed the way we manage many revenues by sending the taxes generated in our communities to Helena where they are then redistributed back to our local governments based on a per capita basis. As our local busi-

nesses and community benefit from growth and increased customers, due to relatively flat tax revenues, our police and fire departments kept staffing and service levels stagnant. In fact, for the past six years the number of service calls to our local police and fire departments have risen 36 percent, while staffing levels have not grown. In 2013 alone the city of Billings 911 Dispatch

December Business After Hours Wednesday, Dec. 10. St. Vincent Healthcare N. Shiloh Road, 5-7 pm. Cost is $8.

November Business After Hours Wednesday, Nov.12. Stockman Bank Shiloh & Grand, 5-7 pm. Cost is $8.

Center fielded over 91,000 service calls, which averages roughly 250 a day. What can we do to address the growing demands on our public safety employees? This Oct. 6 absentee ballots will be sent out and you will have the opportunity to vote on a proposed safety levy. The funds requested in this levy will not only sustain all of the current services

provided, such as patrol officers, special units like Internet Crimes against children and drug task forces, but will also provide funds to put new boots on the ground. Most of these new hires will be in the Police Department. During this election citizens of this city will have the opportunity to vote on what level of public safety services we expect. Please vote. Presenting Sponsor

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October 2014

TRAVEL &leisure

F ollow these tips to pack the perfect carry - on bag ... many airlines are now getting tougher on passengers who try to take larger carryons.

Billie Ruff Billie Ruff is owner of Travel Cafe. Reach her at travelcafeonline.com.

I October 2014

If you’re a road warrior, you know that carry-on baggage restrictions have been in place for years. And, with the fees that airlines charge to check bags, it has become common for travelers to cram as much as possible in a carry-on. Then fellow travelers must wait in the aisle while passengers try to squeeze those overstuffed bags in the overhead bin. As a result, many airlines are now getting tougher on passengers who try to take larger carry-ons. Delta and United Airlines allow passengers one carry-on (9 inches by 14 inches by 22 inches), and one personal item on board the aircraft. Due to the dimensions of overhead storage and under-seat space on aircraft operated by Alaska Airlines in and out of Montana, travelers on those flights are allowed one carryon bag that can measure up to 10 inches high, 17 inches wide and 24 inches long, and one personal item such as a purse or briefcase. On Allegiant Airlines, passengers are allowed one personal item only that is 15-inches high,

7-inches wide and 16-inches long and must be placed under the seat in front of them. In recent months, the airlines are enforcing these restrictions even more because of the complaints they get from customers who had bags within the restrictions but were not able to board with them. Unfortunately, these increased enforcements likely will increase the amount of time it takes to board the plane as passengers with larger bags are forced to go back and check their oversized carry-on bags. Plus, those passengers who are sent back will be charged the average $25 fee to check the bags. In March of this year, United Airlines rolled out new bag-sizing boxes at most airports and sent an e-mail to frequent fliers, reminding them of the rules. Delta Air Lines has done the same with bag-sizing boxes and has stepped up by watch for oversized carry-on bags. Frontier started charging passengers $25 to $50 per bag to store them in the overhead bins. Luckily, I’ve spent many

aircraft, it is best to gatecheck your carry-on which currently does not cost extra. Put the bulkiest items such as jeans and sweaters in first, then tuck shoes and other items around the bulky items. I tuck socks and undies inside shoes or between clothing layers. For my wrinkle-free items, I tightly roll them and line them up next to each other. Lastly, finer fabrics go on top with drycleaning bags between items to prevent creases. In the very top of my carry-on I keep my baggie of liquids so it is readily available to be removed at the TSA checkpoints. In the front zipper compartment, I always pack my smart phone and other electronic items that I need access to during the flight. And, I always make room for a large scarf that can double as a blanket, since many times flight cabins can be quite compartments, or under the years perfecting the art of cold. I like to know where my packing the perfect carry-on seat in front of you. Out of security blanket has been and Montana, that doesn’t always the last time it was cleaned. bag. I typically start with a work if you are traveling on soft-sided 21-inch rollMy recommendation … pack the CRJ700 series regional aboard suitcase that will fit light, sit back and enjoy the flight. into most airplanes’ overhead jets. When traveling on that Billingsbusiness

Personal finance

M ake sure your timing is right when filing for S ocial S ecurity Regardless of the age of actual retirement from employment, you are entitled to begin receiving Social Security benefits at age 62.

Shelly Gams Michelle “Shelly” Gams is a Financial Adviser with Eagle Strategies LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser and a Registered Representative of NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/ SIPC), a Licensed Insurance Agency. Retirement Solutions is not owned or operated by Eagle Strategies LLC or its affiliates. Neither Retirement Solutions nor Gams, provides tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult a own tax, legal, or accounting professional before making any decisions.

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Question: My wife and I recently turned and are starting to think about retiring. Some of my friends have taken Social Security early at age 62, but I heard the longer you wait, the higher your benefits will be in the future. I worked full time and made a decent living. My wife only worked when our children were old enough to be in school. When is the best time to apply for Social Security benefits? Answer: As Americans approach retirement, they face the important decision of when to start receiving Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration reported in 2012, 71 percent of men and 76 percent of women claiming Social Security did so before their Full Retirement Age. This may be the best — or the only — option for those who lack additional sources of guaranteed income or who are facing serious health concerns. For many others, considering several retirement income strategies rather than simply claiming Social Security as early as possible maybe the better approach and allow them to

optimize their retirement income. For today’s retirees, FRA for Social Security purposes ranges from ages 65 to 67, depending on your year of birth. Regardless of the age of actual retirement from employment, you are entitled to begin receiving Social Security benefits at age 62. However, benefits are reduced slightly for each month before FRA to account for the longer distribution period. If you take Social Security early, you will need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of taking those benefits. The advantage is that you collect payments for a longer period of time. The downside is that your payment is permanently lower than it would be had you waited until FRA. If you are under FRA, when you start receiving Social Security payment, $1 in benefits will be deducted for each $2 earned above the annual limit. For 2014, that limit is $15,480. Married couples may further optimize their lifetime Social Security income by coordinating each spouse’s Social Security claim-

ing strategies. Spousal and survivor benefits provide additional options to couples looking to optimize their Social Security benefits. The lesser-known “file and suspend” strategy, which has recently been garnering attention in financial news sources and financial planning resources, is best illustrated with a hypothetical example. Adam and Donna are a married couple of the same age. Adam is the higherearning spouse. He “files” for his Social Security benefit at age 66 and then immediately “suspends” — he receives no payments, and his benefit continues to accrue delayed retirement credits. Donna begins to receive half of Adam’s benefit as a “spousal benefit”; it does not grow with Adam’s delayed retirement credits. At this time, she also evaluates whether it is more advantageous to claim her own FRA benefit at 66 or let it accrue delayed retirement credits until her 70th birthday, while receiving half of Adam’s benefit from age 66 to 70. At 70, she can receive the greater of her own enhanced full benefit

or the spousal benefit. At 70, Adam starts collecting his enhanced full benefit. Donna’s spousal and survivor benefits are now higher than if Adam and Donna both claimed their respective benefits at age 62 or 66, because both are based on Adam’s delayed benefit amount. If the household can afford to delay the start of the higher earner’s Social Security benefit, “filing and suspending” is a great way to provide the spouse with income, while both spouses’ benefits continue to grow with delayed retirement credits. There are instances when “file and suspend” may not be the best strategy, such as a) when the spouses have earned similar amounts and receiving half of the other’s benefit is not advantageous; or b) when poor health conditions (of either or both spouses) may mean that there is a shorter life expectancy. However, for a couple where one spouse is entitled to a much higher benefit based on his/her earnings and life expectancy is average or longer, the benefits of “file and suspend” for both

spouses can be substantial. People who are close to retirement interested in holistically planning for their retirements should decide when to start collecting Social Security after taking into consideration other variables, such as expected rates of return in the market, expected long-term inflation, the rate at which one will be taxed on earnings, and one’s outlook on life expectancy. They may often find that deferring Social Security benefits to age 70, thereby benefiting from delayed retirement credits, is a highly valuable strategy. For those in the position to file for Social Security as a couple, the “file and suspend” option may help maximize the total Social Security income collected throughout the course of retirement. If you have a question, please contact Shelly Gams at Retirement Solutions, 176 South 32nd Street West, Suite 3, Billings, MT 59102 or mgams@retire-solutions. com. There are several Social Security income strategies that can be explored to determine the best option for your situation. October 2014

2014

Montana Business Hall of Fame class

Montana Business Hall of Fame to honor inaugural class on Oct. 2

Mike Schaer Mike Schaer, founder of Computers Unlimited, was among the early technology pioneers in Montana. The year was 1978. The Bee Gee’s “Staying Alive” topped the billboard, the first-ever cellular mobile phone system was introduced and the golden age of arcade video games was born. Meanwhile,Schaer left his secure teaching career at MontanaStateUniversity to start up Computers Unlimited in Billings, offering computer hardware and software solutions to local businesses. The self-taught computer programmer and his wife, Cara, withdrew $3,000 of retirement savings to live on for the year, taking the wager for an industry that was largely unknown. “It may seem like it was a big risk, but I don’t think entrepreneurs really think about failure,” 75-year-old Schaer said. “It’s not until much later, when you employ a lot of people, that you start worrying about failure.” It’s safe to say the gamble was worth it. While Bill Gates, also in 1978, co-founded in Seattle what would become the world’s largest software business, Schaer’s startup business in Montana has also been successful. This week marks the company’s 36th anniversary of developing software specific to industry need, ranging from welding and gas distributors to medical equipment companies. Computers Unlimited, at 2407 Montana Ave., serves more than 20,000 users worldwide through the company’s flagship product, Total

I October 2014

Information Management System, and employs nearly 200 people. Since his move to Montana Avenue some three decades ago, Schaer has established roots in Billings’ historic district with millions invested in the purchase and restoration of more than a dozen buildings, helping other businesses get established including CTA Architects, Venture Theatre, Carter’s Brewing and Uberbrew. The investment was an effort to revitalize Montana Avenue in the late 1990s,when he and a handful of other property owners put up half the $1.2 million cost of street work, sidewalks and landscaping. The historical avenue has been thriving ever since. “By helping others move into the neighborhood, more businesses, more people, more opportunities will follow,” he said. Born and raised in Chicago, Schaer earned a bachelor’s degree in 1960 from the Illinois Institute of Technology in chemical engineering. Five years later, he received a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from OregonState. He came to Montana in 1969 to teach at MontanaStateUniversity in Bozeman. He and Cara have three children and three grandchildren. Throughout his career, Schaer was appointed to the Academy of Distinguished Engineers in 2001, named Entrepreneur of the Year in 2003 by the Montana Ambassadors, and received the Business Person of the Year Roche Jaune Award for Business Excellence in 2009. In 2009, Schaer’s son David took over the presidency of Computers Unlimited. Mike Schaer remains on the board as chairman.

By BILLINGS BUSINESS M ontana S tate U niversity B illings has announced the inaugural class for its newly created

M ontana

B usiness H all of F ame and will honor their achievements at an

O ct .

2 event highlighted by a speech from former N ew Y ork C ity M ayor R udy G iuliani . The class consists of Chris Nelson, of Zoot Enterprises; Mike Schaer, of Computers Unlimited; Bill Oftedal, of Oftedal Construction; Ian Davidson, of Davidson Companies; and the late Sam McDonald, of Wendy’s of Montana. “On behalf of MSUB’s College of Business and the (MSU Billings Foundation), the hall of fame will recognize our state’s most respected and influential leaders for their commitment and investment in our communities,” said Chuck Wendt, president and CEO of the foundation, in a news release. “It’s a who’s who of business in Montana.” College officials say the hall of fame is the first of its kind in Montana, and they plan to continue to honor the state’s

business leaders for their accomplishments in growing the Montana business climate and improving their communities in the future. Barbara Wheeling, dean of the MSUB College of Business, described the inductees as strong role models for new and experienced students and entrepreneurs alike. “Their accomplishments and innovations serve to inspire others to make the best of their chosen careers while being thoughtful of the people in their organizations and communities,” she said. MSUB will induct the class during a ceremony on Oct. 2 at the Big Horn Resort. Giuliani, a successful businessman and former New York mayor, will provide the keynote speech. Billingsbusiness

Tickets for the ceremony cost $75 per person and those interested in taking a photo with Giuliani can make a taxdeductible $1,000 donation to the MSUB foundation and join the Chancellor’s Society. Before the event, the inductees will hold a public Executive in Residence program from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in room 148 of the MSUB library building to talk about business and leadership. The hall of fame recognizes outstanding businessmen and women who have made significant and enduring contributions to their business and industry through extraordinary leadership, she said. To be inducted, nominees are selected based on a number of criteria, such as their level of business leadership and ethics, willingness to take risks, concern for customers and employees, innovation and impact on their community and the state’s economy. Selected among 20 nominees, the first five hall of fame members will be honored on Oct. 2. During

the event, Wheeling and the College of Business’ Advisory Board chair, Chris Dimock, will present inductees with portrait watercolor paintings painted by Joe Heins, of Heins Creative. Large portrait oil paintings featuring each inductee, also painted by Heins, will be housed at the Business Hall of Fame in MSUB’s College of Business. Giuliani, the evening’s keynote speaker, is a successful businessman and attorney who served as New York’s mayor from 1994 through 2001. Earlier in the day, inductees will participate an Executive in Residence program where they will speak about their success in business and leadership. The panel discussion is open to the public and will be held on the MSU Billings university campus in the library building, room 148, from 2 to 3 p.m. Nominations for hall of fame inductions will reopen in January for the 2015 class. For more information, visit msubillings.edu/MBHOF/.

Billingsbusiness

Ian Davidson

was in business. Oftedal’s brother, Jim, soon joined the venture and the boys’ mother, Dede, was highway system and providing put in charge of the books. significant funding to states to “It’s a typical American story, complete the system by 1972. with people just trying to get Two years later, the Highway ahead,” Oftedal said. Commission contracts the first By the 70s, the family owned Montana Interstate project—five and operated business based miles of Interstate 15 between in MilesCity expanded into Monida and Lima. Wyoming with mine reclamation By 1964 — the year E.H. Of- projects, eventually setting up a tedal and Sons was founded— second shop in Casper. construction of Interstate 90 By 1985, Oftedal assumed over HomestakePass began. the role of the company’s presiWhen completed in 1966, the dent and Jim as Vice President. total cost of the Interstate beToday, Oftedal Construction tween Whitehall and Butte was is one of the largest earthmov$18.5 million. ing contractors in the Northwest With a tractor and a scraper, region. The company was the small earthmoving company ranked 66 in the nation in the

Bill Oftedal Bill Oftedal has an extensive background in building businesses from the ground up. Fifty years ago, Oftedal and his father, Ed, saw the emerging need for excavation, reclamation and road construction in Montana. In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act into law, establishing the Interstate

seven months after Davidson’s arrival, and in May 1959, it opened its first branch office in Helena. Soon after, the firm was renamed D.A. Davidson Ian Davidson represents the second in honor of his father, David Adams generation of leadership and ownership Davidson. at D.A. Davidson. Now the largest regional investment Five decades after Ian B. Davidson firms not based on Wall Street, Davidson joined his father’s humble Companies employs 1,350 people in 24 two-person brokerage states. firm, he watches over the With headquarters in Great Falls, vast brokerage firm D.A. Davidson Companies — composed of Davidson as emeritus chair- four investment and wealth manageman of its holding company, ment firms — has $46 billion in assets Davidson Companies. under management. When Davidson arrived Through all the growth, the space in 1958 at the firm, then occupied by the original brokerage office called Gibson Associates, is today part of the lobby of the five-story the two-person brokerage Davidson Building, located at 8 Third had been struggling for St. N. about a decade. But, success doesn’t come easy, 82“The business was not particularly year old Davidson said. a successful operation at that time,” “It takes a heck of a lot of hard Davidson said. work,” he chuckled. “I worked banker A freshly minted graduate of Univer- hours, early mornings and late nights, sity of California-Berkley’s business ad- everyday for many years.” ministration master’s program, Davidson Davidson attributes much of came with a strategy for expansion he Davidson Companies’ success to its ashad created for his MBA thesis. sociates, and the fact that the company “Why, I had a plan when I came is employee owned. back,” Davidson said. “I was prepared to “Any organization is only as good as take what I had learned at Berkley and its people,” Davidson said. “By treating turn things around.” people well, that’s how you do well in The firm joined the Pacific Coast any business.” Stock Exchange as a corporate member Davidson’s commitment to taking

Top 200 Federal Highway Contractors list published in 2002 by Transportation Builder. Best known for mass excavation of earth and rock, Oftedal Construction also specializes in highway and road construction site preparation, mine reclamation and dam and dike construction. Much of the company’s work, Oftedal said, is to be stewards of the land. “It’s always been our mission to ensure present and future generations will continue to have clean air and clean water, so we are cautious to protect the environment within our operations,” Oftedal said. Also a steward of his

care of his employees is evident in the time he sets aside each day to personally call or email people celebrating a birthday. This same amount of care is apparent in his philanthropic endeavors, especially when it comes to Montana’s education system. “If we are going to have a viable, energetic state, then we must place our focus on education,” Davidson said. “Youth are the backbone of our nation, our state. Therefore, that’s something we all should invest in. They are our future.” Alongside Davidson’s master degree from Berkley, he holds a bachelor’s degree and a 2003 honorary doctorate from the University of Montana. Aside from his career in business, Davidson served in the Air Force from 1953-1955 as a second lieutenant and was a finance instructor at the University of Montana for one year. He has served on numerous community and business-related boards and has been awarded with several significant achievement awards. He and his wife, Nancy, have three children — all UM alumni — and nine grandchildren. His son, Andrew, represents the third generation of the Davidson Company as president of Davidson Investment Advisors.

employees, Oftedal credits the success of his company to the people who worked for him, many of which worked for Oftedal for more than 30 years. “We didn’t create the company, our employees did,” he said. “They were the ones in the trenches.” When the brothers reached retirement age in 2008, rather than selling the business outright, they transferred ownership to its 250 employees through an employee stock option. “Our employees had always gone over-and-beyond for the company,” Oftedal said. “It was extremely important to us that we could provide them with work until they retire too.”

Thirty-year employee Lynn Ruf said she was very thankful the company was left in the hands of employees. “Bill and Jim, they built the company, but they felt strongly that the employees built the company along with them,” Ruf said. “They wanted us to benefit too.” She said the business continues to follow the same business philosophy and values the Oftedal family started a half century ago. In 2014, Oftedal Construction won the Alliant Build America Award for its work on the $65 million Togwotee Trail project, the largest highway contract in Wyoming’s history. October 2014

Chris Nelson

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I October 2014

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A trailblazer in the loan approval business, Chris Nelson has come a long way from the day when he was making loan recommendationsfrom his basement apartment in the 1980s. While working in the financial services industry as a recent graduate of Eastern Montana College, Nelson recognized the industry’s crucial need of automated, speedy loan approval services. He developed software, and from there built the empire that is now Bozeman-based Zoot Enterprises. Nelson held the rights to his PC-based credit retrieval program and started selling it to major lending companies like American Express. His first buyer was Valley National Bank of Arizona. Nelson created a new “Loan by Phone” programthat allowed the bank to process credit applications by phone in 15 minutes. Zoot has pioneered the industry since its founding in 1990. Today, Nelson’s program can gather and analyze credit information in a fraction of a second. Under Nelson’s leadership, the company has grown to a multimillion-dollar company, processing some 350 million loan applications annually while serving seven of the country’s top ten financial institutions. “For Zoot, we were just in the right place at the right time to make the first automated credit decision,” Nelson said. “We got to make lots of mistakes and grow-up in an industry that was growing very fast.” A global provider of advanced loan origination, account acquisition and credit risk management solutions, Zoot is owned entirely by Nelson and his employees — almost all graduates of Montana universities. Employees are encouraged to be comfortable at work, wearing everything from jeans and T-shirts to flip-flops and shorts. Dogs and kids are welcome too. The 155,000 square-foot brick building is sits on a 160-acre campus, surrounded by spectacular views of the Gallatin and Madison mountain ranges. Beyond the enormous glass entryway, employees and guests are greeted in a marble and oakaccented lobby, with an open-glass staircase leading to a balcony on the third floor. Other features of the $18.2 million property include an underground parking garage, a gym, biking and walking trails and gallery space featuring local artists. “Our culture here at Zoot is by design, intended to foster good ideas in a supportive and casual atmosphere,” Nelson said. “I don’t care what people wear to work, as long as they do great work.” And while Nelson is quite humble when recounting his company’s success and significant community contributions, his innovations have introduced numerous industry-changing innovations to the market and received several industry awards. Born and raised in Billings, 52-year-old Nelson graduated from EMC in 1978 with accounting and information systems degrees. Among his many accolades, he takes most pride in his son, Shawn, who has joined his father in the Zoot business as its business manager, his granddaughter, and his best friend, Izzy — an energetic Australian Shepherd who accompanies him to the office every day. Billingsbusiness

every city in which there was a store owned by Wendy’s of Montana. The late Sam McDonald McDonald married his “They really focused on was known by many as a high school sweetheart, Judy education and youth,” Greg successful businessman and Covert, in 1957. said, who is now the president standout athlete. He received a finance But those closest to him degree in 1959 from Oklahoma of Wendy’s of Montana. A gift McDonald was most speak of his big heart. State University where he “He and my mom always played basketball on a scholar- proud of, Greg said, was the felt it was important to help ship for the legendary coach $1.4 million donation to the those in need, and help the Henry Iba. College of Business at Moncommunity After working in the oil tana State University Billings and region,” industry in Texas and Kansas, in 2002. his son Greg, he moved to Denver to get a He is also well-rememof Billings, start in the real estate busibered by his $400,000 said. ness. With their two children, In Greg and Deborah, he and donation to put synthetic grass particular, the Judy moved back to Billings in on the field at Daylis Stadium McDonalds 1966, where he joined Covert in 2006. It is now known helped count- Realty, which was owned by as Wendy’s Field at Daylis less young his father-in-law, Paul Covert. Stadium. people get In 1976, he bought the McDonald was the recipithrough colcompany from Covert, turning lege and get started in life. it into Wendy’s franchisees. ent of numerous professional, He once said, “We make Wendy’s of Montana now philanthropic and civic awards, a living by what we get. We has 23 restaurants throughincluding the Montana High make a life by what we give.” out Montana, Wyoming and School Association Athletes The founder of Wendy’s of Nebraska, outperforming the Hall of Fame, the Wendy’s Montana, McDonald donated national average. Founder’s Award, Billings millions of dollars to causes “He was a great, out-ofand organizations across the Chamber of Commerce Lifethe-box thinker,” Greg said. state. His generous contribu“Even though he was very time Achievement award, and tions to Montana have made educated, he was very indethe Phillip Fortin Humanitarian an enormous impact, and pendent and liked to do things Award from the Billings YMCA. continue to do so through his his own way. And, it turned out The standout athlete, philanthropic legacy. alright for him.” successful businessman and McDonald was born in In 1982, he graduated noted philanthropist died Feb. Great Falls on April 5, 1935, and from the Harvard School of moved to Billings as a young Business’ Owners/President 20, 2012 at the age of 76. He boy with his family. He gradu- Management Program. was proceeding in death by ated in 1954 from Senior High, The McDonald family in Judy six months earlier. where he was an all-state 2000 established the Wendy’s Sam and Judy McDonald and all-America football and Foundation, which gave out are survived by their two chilbasketball player as well as hundreds of thousands of dren and four grandchildren, an American Legion baseball dollars each year, including player. $3,000 to each high school in who called him “Daddy Sam.”

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Construction industry works to recruit women Associated Press

include a dearth of recruitment efforts aimed at women and hard-to-quash stereotypes that Janice Moreno graduated construction work doesn’t suit from college with a degree in them. English literature, but never Another factor, accordlanded a job paying more than ing to a recent report by the $12 an hour. Now, at 36, she’s National Women’s Law Center, back in the classroom — in safety is pervasive sexual harassment of glasses and a T-shirt — learning women at work sites. how to be a carpenter. “It’s not surprising that “I believe it’s going to pay the construction trades are off,” she said amid instruction in sometimes called ‘the industry sawing techniques. If Moreno’s six-week training that time forgot,’” said Fatima program in New York City leads Goss Graves, the center’s vice president for education and to a full-time job, she’ll have bucked long odds. About 7.1 mil- employment. “It’s time for this industry to enter the modern lion Americans were employed in construction-related occupa- era — to expand apprenticeships and training opportunities for tions last year — and only 2.6 women, hire qualified female percent were women. That percentage has scarcely workers and enforce a zero tolerance policy against sexual budged since the 1970s, while harassment.” women have made gains since Efforts to accomplish those then in many other fields. goals are more advanced in New Why the low numbers, in York than in many parts of the an industry abounding with country, with pledges by unions, high-paying jobs that don’t require college degrees? Reasons employers and city officials to boost women’s share of con-

struction jobs. One key player is Nontraditional Employment for Women, or NEW, a nonprofit which offers training programs such as the one taken by Moreno. The organization has arrangements with several unions to take women directly into their multiyear apprenticeships — at a starting wage of around $17, plus benefits — once they complete the program. After four or five years, they can attain journeyman status, with hourly pay of $40 or more. Kathleen Culhane, NEW’s interim president, said more than 1,000 graduates have obtained apprenticeships since 2005, and 12 to 15 percent of the apprentices with some leading unions are women. NEW covers all costs for its students, who must be able to carry 50-pound loads. Beyond learning job skills, the students do role-playing to get ready for future challenges. Among the topics, Moreno said, is how to distinguish between

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Thomas might fit the bill. She took up welding at a community college in Alabama, landed a job in 2009 with construction giant KBR Inc., and in 2010 became the first woman to take first place in welding at the Associated Builders and Contractors’ National Craft Championships, a competition launched in 1987. Thomas, 29, is now supervising a 10-worker crew at a KBR project in Florida. She speaks occasionally to high school girls, who are impressed by her paycheck that averages more than $2,000 a week. “The biggest issue is getting through to the parents of the kids, the counselors at the Two surveyors discuss blueprints on a construction site. About 7.1 million Americans schools and making clear that were employed in construction-related occupations last year — and only 2.6 percent construction is a viable career,” Thomas said. were women. Mary Battle also has sucflagrant sexual harassment that liked, or we’ll be the only woman ceeded with a construction should be reported, as opposed on the job,” Moreno said. career, although she says it to less egregious behavior. If young women considerrequired unwavering tough“They want us to be prepared ing a construction career are in mindedness. for the possibility we won’t be search of a role model, Holley Now 50, Battle has been

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working in cement masonry for 30 years and in 2012 became the first woman elected business manager of Plasterers and Cement Masons Local 891 in Washington, D.C. Under her leadership, the number of women in the local has risen from five to 12, but she says sexist attitudes persist in the industry. “Men don’t perceive of women as someone coming to work, they perceive of women as a sex object,” Battle said. For younger women considering a construction career, Battle tells them: “No matter how much negativity you get, keep on the job and don’t quit.” A mother of six, Battle credits a devoted baby sitter with helping her handle long work hours. Many construction jobs start in early morning, complicating child-care arrangements for some single mothers. Another challenge for women is to get their fair share of working hours, according to Elly Spicer, a former carpenter who is now director of training at a technical college affiliated with

New York City carpenters unions. “You’ll find, unquestionably, that women get access to less hours than men,” said Spicer. “You can’t do this working six months of the year.” The management side of the industry insists it would welcome more women. “Most of our members are desperate to hire people,” said Brian Turmail, public affairs director for the Associated General Contractors of America. “They’re looking for any candidate who’s qualified to come and join the team — women, minorities, veterans.” Turmail suggested that most women aren’t tempted by construction careers, while those who are interested might be hampered by cutbacks in schoolbased vocational programs. The Labor Department plans to award $100 million in grants this year for apprenticeship programs that expand opportunities for women and minorities. “The reality is that the face of apprenticeship in the construction industry has been white

male,” Labor Secretary Thomas Perez said in an interview. “We’re working to ensure the future reflects the face of America.” A crucial step, Perez said, is to highlight the successes of women who have thrived in construction. “Women are good at this,” he said. “They’ve punched a ticket to the middle class and speak with great pride of the barriers they’ve overcome.” Regarding sexual harassment, the Labor Department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has pledged to crack down on contractors who fail to prevent serious abuses. Earlier this year, the office determined that three female carpenters with a Puerto Rico firm were sexually harassed and denied work hours comparable to those of male workers. At times, the company failed to provide the women with a restroom, and they had to relieve themselves outdoors, the office said. Under a conciliation agreement, the company agreed to pay $40,000 to the three women.

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The 40 under Forty issue recognizes 40 people under the age of 40 who are making positive contributions to the business environment of the greater Billings area. Honorees will be selected from the pool of nominees and profiled in the February 2015 Billings Business. Successful entrepreneurs, business owners and managers are encouraged to apply. Nominate yourself, or someone you know!

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Name Change Coming October 14 2014!

To submit a nomination for consideration, log on to www.billingsbusiness.com or facebook.com/billingsbusiness by 10/31/2014.

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October 2014

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Bottling up Dairy industry group urges farmers not to allow tours, on-farm interviews Associated Press BOISE, Idaho — An Idaho dairy industry group has sent a letter to its members urging them to deny media requests for tours and on-farm interviews in the wake of a new law that makes it illegal to secretly film animal abuse at agricultural facilities. The letter from the United Dairymen of Idaho was sent anonymously to The Associated Press recently. In it, co-chairs Tom Dorsey and Tony Vanderhulst advise dairy producers that there’s been an increase in requests from media groups seeking to film on-farm footage since the law was passed earlier this year. The men recommend that dairy producers either turn down media requests or refer members of the media to dairy industry groups. Several groups including the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho are suing the state over the law, which they

contend curtails free speech rights. Ag groups say the law is needed to prevent animal rights groups from unfairly targeting certain businesses and to protect private property rights. The letter was dated Aug. 13 and labeled confidential. “We are working to confine and contain the nature of the requests, but encourage you to remain alert for unexpected visits to your farms,” the men wrote in the letter. Bob Naerebout, director of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association, said the letter wasn’t intended to block news media from covering the industry. Rather, he said, the industry groups wanted to let members know they had options. “Our dairymen need to focus and want to focus on what they do best: Producing a high quality work product,” Naerebout said. “And they’re not, shall we say, comfortable with the media.”

An Idaho dairy industry group is urging its members to deny media requests for tours and on-farm interviews in the wake of a new law that makes it illegal to secretly film animal abuse at agricultural facilities.

“Our dairymen need to focus and want to focus on what they do best: Producing a high quality work product. And they’re not, shall we say, comfortable with the media.” — Bob Naerebout, director of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association

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I October 2014

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Shops at Shiloh Crossing

CONTEMPORARY DESIGN, WALKABILIT Y AND STORES WITH SYNERGY HALLMARK BILLINGS’ NEWEST RETAIL AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTER. By Brittany Cremer • Photos By Casey Page

Seven years ago, business owner Toni Kramer was cruising around Billings’ windswept West End and noticed a sign. “Shiloh Crossing, coming soon.” At that time, the corner lot at King and Shiloh—now known as Shiloh Crossing—was predominantly agricultural land waiting to be developed. Kohl’s opened in 2008 as the area’s first anchor retailer. But savvy business owners like Kramer, who owns BalanceDiet by Elements, and land developer Steve Corning saw the potential even then. “When I saw the sign, I called Steve Corning and told him that’s where I knew we should be,” Kramer said.“He said it would be a while before the area was ready.” But Kramer was patient. Above: Architechtural renderings empasize the welcoming environment of the Shops at Shiloh Crossing. Time and care was placed on additional landscaping and widened sidewalks to increase walkability. Left: Heightened fascia, window eyebrows and a neutral color palate were used to play up the storefront signs, exhibited in this preliminary architectural rendering.

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She waited for the right opportunity to move her store to the coveted new location and recently celebrated the businesses’ grand re-opening on October 1. BalanceDiet joins other female-centric retailers like Neecee’s, Meridian, Country Cottage and Party America in the state-of-the-art 276,000-squarefoot shopping center situated between the new Sheels store and Carmike Cinema on Shiloh Crossing Boulevard. Dubbed the “Shops at Shiloh Crossing,” the new suite of stores offers something for everyone. “Our goal with this project was to create a merchandise center comprised of retailers that could offer a synergistic shopping experience,” Corning said, noting that time and care was taking to select tenants “Each of thE who had a proven track record for retail success. rEtailErs at thE Keeping a unique flavor of retailers who symbolized the integrity of Billings shops at shiloh business was also important to Corning. “Each of the retailers at the Shops at crossing is Shiloh Crossing is known for their superior level of customer service and quality known for merchandise,” Corning said. thEir supErior

Tip-toe through the tulips

Walkability. It is a term that weighed heavily on the development team when formulatsErvicE and ing specifications for the Shops at Shiloh Crossing. quality “We wanted to distinguish the property by making it pedestrian-friendly,” mErchandisE.” Corning said. “This includes walk-ways, promenades, benches and attractive land— stEvE corning, scaping with potted plants.” land dEvElopEr These elements work in tandem to encourage shoppers to leisurely stroll from store to store—taking a rest or having a snack when needed. The concept greatly deviates from traditional “big box” shopping models where customers drive to a destination store, get what they need, get back in the car and drive to another destination store. Corning and his associates say they like to refer to the Shops at Shiloh Crossing as more of a “lifestyle center,” complete with ample dining, entertainment and boutique-style shopping opportunities. Customers can come to shop, pop over to one of the nearby restaurants for a quick bite or maybe jaunt over to the movie theater to catch a flick. And then there’s Sheels—the retail touchstone with all of the above. “Sheels acts as a unique anchor to the shopping center,” Corning said. And business owners at the Shops at Shiloh Crossing say they’re already feeling the foot traffic. “It’s still pretty early,” said Lisa Gouveia, owner of Party America, “but when Sheels opened its doors, the area was jumping with activity. People were parking their cars and walking around—it was awesome.” lEvEl of customEr

Formerly known as Inches-a-Weigh, BalanceDiet recently opened its doors at the Shops at Shiloh Crossing.

Congratulations To THe sHoPs aT sHiloH cRossinG

We are proud to be part of the team

seRvicinG all youR consTRucTion needs in MonTana since 1982

2270 Grant Road Billings, MT 59102 Billingsbusiness

406-656-0629 www.langlas.com October 2014

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It’s a Party!

Party America, which opened its new location for business on September 4, features a sprawling 12,000-square-foot retail space. Featuring party and costume items, the new store replaces the previous location on S. 29th St. W. (Party America’s Heights location continues to serve customers.) “The new space is significantly larger than our old store,” Gouveia said, “but it’s filling up fast.” Gouveia is proud to offer 100s more balloon choices to her customers and noted that the store has a massive selection of Halloween items—just in time for the season spook-tacular.

Styles as unique as you are

With a sprawling 12,000-foot floor plan, the new Party America store at Shiloh Crossing features a wide variety of Halloween costume wear and party supplies.

Just down the way, women’s clothing retailer Neecee’s will be opening its second location. “We hope to accommodate not only our established customer base, but gain new customers that become friends of Neecee’s,” said owner, Denice Johnson. Neecee’s original location downtown

Congratulations To All the Shops at Shiloh Crossing (406) 656-5955 hillmasonryinc.com 28

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special advertising section will continue to serve customers, but Johnson is excited about the new 4,000-sqare-foot storefront at Shiloh Crossing. “Having two locations allows us more freedom to experiment with styles and trends,” she said. The West End location will also offer extended hours—convenient for customers who work 8 to 5. The new store features a state-of-the-art “Fitting Lounge,” where people can comfortably wait while their friends and family try on new outfits. Nine fitting rooms peppered throughout the lounge means rarely having to wait to try on clothes. A large-screen TV anchors the lounge and will be tuned into the Style Network so customers can stay apprised to the hottest fashion trends. The Fitting Lounge will also feature a serving station for refreshments, Johnson said. Johnson said she anticipates a completion date of early to mid-November for the West End store. Meridian Limited, another women’s clothing retailer, features even more fashion options for the savvy Shiloh Crossing shopper. Owned by Lisa Wyss, the new storefront replaces the West End location at 805 24th St. W. Meridian’s downtown location at 2818 2nd Ave. N. will remain open, continuing to serve shoppers. Country Cottage, a home décor and furnishing store, will also be joining the retail ranks at the Shops at Shiloh Crossing. Previously located at Rimrock Mall, the new storefront features 3,700 square feet of retail and display space—just in time for the holidays. Also specializing in Montana-made edibles, Country Cottage is a must-stop shop for the out-of-state friends on your shopping list.

Health and happiness

Seven years after first eye-balling the lot for her dream retail space, Toni Kramer is settling in at BalanceDiet. Formerly known as Inches-a-Weigh, the storefront is a women’s fitness and weight loss center specializing in individualized solutions to lifelong wellness. “BalanceDiet is perfect for anyone interested in making a lasting lifestyle change,” Kramer said. “Our talented team of coaches and consultants will tailor a plan to your needs, fitness level and goals.” Serving a broad age range from teens to women 85 years old, BalanceDiet’s customers lose weight by eating “grocery store food,” Kramer said. “We coach women on eating in real-life situations,” Kramer said. “We live in a hectic world and can offer solutions to combat that.” Known for their unique “figure-shaping” exercise equipment, Kramer is pleased to continue offering that service to her customers in addition to new options. The new storefront includes a spacious group fitness room where Kramer’s staff will be teaching Zumba and other toning classes. A spacious locker room and sauna are other welcomed additions, Kramer said. Kramer said she couldn’t be happier with the storefront she dreamed about for seven years. Top right: Neecee’s clothing store for women will maintain its downtown location while expanding to Billings’ West End at the Shops at Shiloh Crossing. The new store will feature a refreshment bar and Fitting Lounge. Billingsbusiness

Thank You

Langlas & Associates and Shops at Shiloh Crossing for giving us the opportunity to be a part of the Construction Team

ratin b e l C e a r s i n bu s i n g e 29 y

nes

406-656-8585 October 2014

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Defined by design

Langlas Construction acted as the general contractor for the build and has delivered on Corning’s promise to produce a shopping center that is both distinguished and accessible, unique but convenient. Time and care was taken to create a sleek, sophisticated flow to the specialty shops at Shiloh Crossing. A color palate of contemporary onyx-black, charcoal grey and crème puts the emphasis on each retailer’s signage. “In a sense, the color scheme creates an eye-wash that draws shoppers in to each retailer’s storefront,” Corning said. “This design allows retailers to invest in meaningful signage for their business.” Raised fascia and entry overhangs add texture and architectural interest to the shopping center. These additions raised the overall construction bill, but it was well worth the investment, Corning said. A trailblazer of sorts, the Shops at Shiloh Crossing celebrate Billings’ transition into a new era of entertainment-style shopping. Nostalgic shoppers will remember bustling downtown to department stores like Hart Albin. Then years later, the enclosed mall setting (West Park Plaza and Rimrock) was the model for retail success. Soon, big box stores hit the scene and boasted one-stopshopping at low-low prices. Enmeshing the best of these concepts into one locale, the Shops at Shiloh Crossing is positioning itself as Billings’ newest, can’t-miss entertainment station to eat, shop, stay and play.

Onyx-black coupled with charcoal grey creates a clean, contemporary vibe on the exterior of the Shops at Shiloh Crossing.

Thanks Langlas Construction & Congratulations to all the New Shops at Shiloh Crossing!

I October 2014

Billingsbusiness

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Elder Grove School: GROWING INTO A NEW CENTURY

By Brenda Maas • Photos By Casey Page

It’s 8 a.m. on a crisp fall morning.The bell rings from the century-old tower, calling students to class across the Elder Grove campus—just as it has every school day since 1904. As the oldest, continuously-operating schoolhouse in Montana, the current K-8 district faced crowded classrooms and a fragmented campus. After a long process of drafting a master plan and giving voters options on how to handle increased enrollment, district voters opted to fund a $5 million addition to Elder Grove School. Top: The doors from the rear of the addition lead directly out to the re-located playground; children no longer have to cross the parking lot during recess. Dusty Easton, designer with A&E Architects, emphasized the need for the addition’s design to honor the tradition of the 110-year-old Elder Grove School, both inside and out.

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The district grew by 16 percent during the 2013-14 school year alone with 511 students enrolled this fall, noted district administrator Justin Klebe. Located at 1532 S. 64th St. W., the school district covers 64 square miles, including at least four new or expanding subdivisions. Prior to the addition, Elder Grove student-to-teacher ratios kept the school from state accreditation. To deal with this aggressive growth, Klebe sketched out three options: bring in modular buildings, send the 7th and 8th graders to School District 2 or build a new school. “Luckily for us, the voters saw the value in building the school,” Klebe said of the 2012 bond vote to expand the existing buildings.

Mastering the master plan

Klebe points to the committee of parents, students, teachers Above: The playground was once in front and administration as the project’s real of the school, near the busy intersection of beginning—plus the master plan they Hesper Road and 64th Street West. Budget savings plus the Elder Grove Parent-Teacher drafted directed nearly all other deciOrganization helped move the playground to sions. Understanding and respecting the the back side, almost enclosing the outdoor work that went into that plan was crucial, activity within the center of the school noted Klebe, to designing the new spaces. campus. By relocating the playground from the front to the back, the campus gained about Dusty Eaton, designer with A&E 20 parking spaces plus an efficient flow for Architects, praised the district’s master buses and vehicle traffic during pick-up/dropoff times—a safer situation for all. plan, noting that it was “the starting point, a guiding framework that really set the tone for the project.” In reality, it became the “great, big book of everything.” “A&E Architects took our master plan, really looked at it and respected the work that went in to it,” said Klebe. “They knew, right from the beginning, what our goals were, and they didn’t trying to change it— they gave us what we asked for.” The district’s wish list was extensive but thorough. It included nine new or renovated classrooms, a new, expanded library, “break out” rooms (for individual instruction), a new music room, additional bathrooms and a new, central entrance that connects the original schoolhouse to Building 2 and the addition. Prior to the addition, teachers had children bundle up just to go to

I October 2014

Congratulations To eveRyone aT eldeR GRove We are proud to be part of the team seRvicinG all youR consTRucTion needs in MonTana since 1982

2270 Grant Road Billings, MT 59102

406-656-0629 www.langlas.com Billingsbusiness

special advertising section the library because they had to physically leave the building and enter a second—it was an inefficient use of important instructional time. The new breezeway seamlessly ties Building 1 with Building 2, allowing for students to safely segue from one area to the next. “I’m excited that we now have K-5 all within one building,” Klebe said of the design. “That was our goal—to have a fully-enclosed elementary school, with no transitions outdoors.” With that all-inclusive mission came a big challenge. “The biggest challenge was to blend the project within the existing school context but still create an innovative educational space,” Eaton said. “It was an opportunity to honor a century-old school while transforming the interior to exemplify 21st century education.”

Safety is number 1

Centrally-located and new more than double in size, the library is the core of the K-5 educational space. Designer Dusty Eaton, of A&E Architects, referred to it as “the heart of the school.”

In addition to creating a cohesive flow, the new breezeway also offers a new loading/unloading area within an expanded parking lot. Before the addition, the buses actually stopped on 64th Street, creating a potentially dangerous situation. In fact, the school’s resource officer once ticketed a car speeding past at more than 100 mph.

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special advertising section Klebe equates the process to putting a puzzle together. Langlas literally built the addition around what was known as Building 4. The students left the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, and the following Tuesday, the 1980s pole-barn style building was demolished and full on-site work began in earnest.

Can’t be too safe

On-site safety was, of course, a big concern accross the school campus. Hubbard noted that the first step was for Langlas & Associates, as the general contractor, to completely understand how the existing facilities were being used. For example, the school day is very predictable with specific schedules. “The students still had to get from point A to point B at a designed time,” Hubbard said. “It was our job to listen to the school personnel to understand and control the parameters.” Study areas—for both small groups and individuals—within the library met a major objective. The rear doors access the outdoor learning space that will be expanded in the future with furniture, planters and the like.

The new space allows students to either wait inside, where it is warmer, or outside, protected by a large overhang, during inclement weather. A ramp also provides secondary handicap access to Building 1. “We are now also able to secure the campus even more,” said Klebe of the school’s “connector,” new communication system and improved traffic flow.

Time is off the essence

Although the organizing and planning started years in advance, the project broke ground in March of 2014. Within six short months, the addition was complete and students “The biggesT arrived on September 2, excited to fill nine new challenge was classrooms. To blend The projecT With that sort of rapid timeline, the school wiThin The exisTing administration knew that selecting the right school conTexT buT sTill general contractor was essential to staying on track—Klebe said the completion date was noncreaTe an innovaTive negotiable. educaTional space. “Langlas & Associates came to us with the iT was an best plan, and we didn’t have to start at square opporTuniTy To one with them—they had done their homework honor a cenTury-old beforehand,” said Klebe. “They said they would school while have all classrooms ready by September 2, then comprehensively outlined how they would get Transforming there.” The inTerior To Justin Hubbard, project manager for Langlas exemplify & Associates, acknowledged the aggressive 21sT cenTury timeline but also pointed out that continuous educaTion. communication and cooperation with the school administration and teachers kept the obstacles under control. — dusTy easTon, “The biggest challenge is that Elder Grove designer, a&e archiTecTs did not want to use temporary classrooms during the project, so we literally worked around the existing building and within close proximity to the students,” Hubbard said. He also noted that building the new classroom walls off-site, simultaneously during site preparation, saved time; when they were brought to the site, the walls were immediately erected. 34

I October 2014

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special advertising section The site included designated safe zones and evacuation plans, along with continued “checking in” with teachers and administration. In addition, each and every contractor and subcontractor wore identity badges and passed background checks.

Teamwork

Klebe credits the collaborative work of A&E Architects and Langlas & Associates, plus the entire Elder Grove educational community for a smooth project. “We’ve done several projects together,” said Hubbard of the A&E Architects – Langlas & Associates cooperative effort. “We have a great working relationship and formed a team with the school early in the process—that really helped.” Klebe notes that site supervisor Ben Flanagan and A&E Architect’s construction administrator Kris Koessl were easily available from very early in the process to the finish. Langlas employees gave tours to parents and students and even helped clear out the gym or

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Congratulations moved teachers into their classrooms over Labor Day Weekend—whatever needed to be done to get the doors open for the students. “When we say we are going to do something, we do it—Langlas prides itself on that,” said Hubbard. “We knew the short timeline would be a tough transition for the school and the teachers.” The excited smiles on the teachers’, parents’ and kids’ faces were worth it, Hubbard added. “Seeing their reaction to their new school that first day—that was great,” he said. “It made it all worth it.”

We are proud to be a part of the new Elder Grove addition

hillmasonryinc.com

Read & learn

The addition includes a new library that is more than twice the size of the former space; a new, specifically-dedicated, 22-station computer lab; a new music room that is completely soundproof and includes two private practice rooms and storage lockers; new, sleek bathrooms with a shared wash area (visible from the hall); and break-out rooms for small-group instruction. Last year music classes shared space with the concession area, and small groups attempted to learn in the hallways or whatever small nook a teacher could find. Now, the spacious classrooms eliminate Elder Grove’s crowded class ratios, clerestory windows bring natural daylight into open corridor spaces and the building connector unites kindergarten through 5th grade for an optimum learning environment—perhaps for another hundred years. Top left: The new classrooms have ample natural light and efficient, easy-to-maintain finishes. For example, the carpet is laid in sections, so if a piece becomes damaged, just that one square can be replaced instead of the entire carpet. The area in front of the sink is not carpeted because, logically, that is where most spills will occur. Center left: Re-purposed from former classrooms, the new music room is a favorite space—especially compared to its former location in the concession area. The room is completely sound-proof and features acoustic tiles to enhance the sound, two private practice rooms and storage lockers for instruments. Left: New clerestory windows bring continuous sunlight and energy into the halls of the school’s addition while polished concrete and simple finishes keep the space easy to maintain. Top: Both boys and girls share the new wash area of the bathrooms, which are open to the hall for easy monitoring. Above: Bright colors like chartreuse along with sunny yellow and true orange kick up the energy in the school’s addition.

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Billingsbusiness

Name change to CVS Health part of plan to halt tobacco sales Associated Press

a booklet with Sudoku and other games to distract someone fighting the urge to smoke. As CVS sharpens its focus on CVS and other drugstores have customer health, the nation’s delved deeper into customer health second-largest drugstore chain will in recent years, in part to serve the tweak its corporate name and stop aging baby boom generation and the the sale of tobacco nearly a month millions of uninsured people who sooner than planned. CVS Caremark said it will now be are expected to gain coverage under known as CVS Health, effective im- the federal health care overhaul. While competitors Walgreen Co. mediately. The signs on its roughly and Rite Aid Corp. still sell tobacco, 7,700 drugstores won’t change, so they’ve all started offering more the change may not register with health care products and added shoppers. walk-in clinics to their stores while However, those customers will expanding the care they provide. see a big change when they check Drugstores now offer an array out. The cigars and cigarettes that of vaccinations and flu shots, and used to fill the shelves behind store many of their clinics can help monicash registers have been replaced with nicotine gum and signs urging tor chronic illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure. visitors to kick the tobacco habit. “We’re doing more and more to A store in downtown Indianapoextend the front lines of health care,” lis also stocked free tobacco quit CVS CEO Larry Merlo said. packs where cigarettes used to sit. CVS still stocks its shelves with The red-and-white boxes, nearly sugary snacks and other foods the size of a cigarette pack, contain coupons, a card showing how much that are considered unhealthy. But company executives have a smoker can save by quitting and

moving a reference to the company’s biggest revenue producer, its Caremark pharmacy benefits management. The name Caremark, however, had never really registered with the average person, according to Laura Ries, president of the brand consulting firm Ries & Ries. CVS, which is ranked 12th in the 2014 Fortune 500, announced in February that it would phase out tobacco sales by Oct. 1 because it could no longer sell smokes in a setting where health care is offered. The CEO at CVS has said that the company expects to lose about $2 billion in revenue annually after Courtesy pulling tobacco from its shelves, but This undated photo provided by CVS Health, a CVS store employee removes tobacco products from executives believe they can counter the store shelves in East Greenwich, R.I. CVS announced Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014 that it will tweak its that loss at least in part through corporate name. Rhode Island-based CVS Caremark will now be known as CVS Health, and stores will growth the company may get from stop the sale of tobacco nearly a month sooner than planned. The cigars and cigarettes that used to fill health care. Merlo declined estimate the shelves behind store cash registers have been replaced with nicotine gum and other products that how much of a benefit CVS expects. help people kick the tobacco habit. The potential revenue loss hasn’t been quick to point out that while tobacco is considered safe. spooked investors so far. CVS shares chocolate bars in moderation pose The CVS corporate name change have climbed about 22 percent since little health risk, no amount of reflects the health push while rethe tobacco announcement.

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At Rocky Mountain Bank we believe when a community bank gets to know you, great things happen. Like quick and easy loan approvals, and products and services that make banking more enjoyable. Our wide variety of accounts and loans are backed by experienced, knowledgeable professionals ready to help with all of your business and personal banking needs. So come on in or log on to www.RMBank.com and get to know the bank that gets to know you.

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STEVE CASHER | Market President | SHIRLEEN LARSEN | Private Banker Billingsbusiness

October 2014

TECHNOLOGY

B EWARE OF THESE TELLTALE SIGNS OF COMPUTER VIRUSES

Malicious spyware and malware can be downloaded and begin doing its dirty work on your network long before you are aware of it.

Shaun Brown Shaun Brown is systems director of operations for Morrison-Maierle Systems Corp. in Billings.

I October 2014

Is your computer infected with some kind of harmful software? Yes, the threat is constant. Since most malicious programs are designed to hide themselves, detecting them is not always easy. However there are a few surefire signs that you have been infected:  You start getting swamped with pop-up ads that seem to come from nowhere and constantly interrupt your use of the computer.  Your computer is unstable, sluggish, locking up, or crashing frequently.  Your web browser’s home page changes on its own and you cannot modify the settings. You may also notice toolbars on your web browser that you did not setup.  You get a second or third web browser popping up behind your main browser that you didn’t open or request.  Mysterious files suddenly start appearing.  Your CD drawer starts opening and closing by itself.  You get constant runtime errors in MS Outlook/Outlook Express.  You find emails in your “Sent Items” folder that you didn’t send.  Some of your files, desktop icons, and toolbars are moved, deleted, blank or missing. If you are experiencing one or more of the above when using your computer, you are almost certainly infected and should seek help from your

computer technician. Malicious spyware and malware can be downloaded and begin doing its dirty work on your network long before you are aware of it.

Spyware

Internet jargon for hidden programs that advertisers install on your PC, without your permission, to spy on you, gather information, and report information about you and your online activities to a third party. Spyware can be responsible for delivering a boatload of spam, altering your web browser, slowing down your PC, and serving up a bounty of pop-up ads. In extreme cases it can also steal your identity, passwords, email address book and even use your PC for illegal activities. Most spyware finds its way onto your computer network via file downloads; including free programs, music files and screen savers. While you think you are only downloading a legitimate program to add emoticons to your emails, you are unknowingly also downloading a heaping spoonful of spyware programs. All it takes is one employee downloading a questionable file to infect your entire network. Spyware piggybacks on the download and runs undetected in the background, collecting information about you and sending it back to its originator until it is removed. Although spyware has malicious compo-

nents, it is not illegal, and it is not considered a virus because it doesn’t replicate itself or destroy data.

Malware

Malware is short for malicious software and represents all programs, viruses, trojans, and worms that have malicious intent to damage or disrupt a system. Malware is hard to remove and will fight back when you try to clean it from your system. In some extreme cases, the only solution is to completely wipe out all of the information on a computer’s hard disk and start with a complete re-install of the operating system. Among other things, a malware infection can corrupt your files, alter or delete data, and distribute confidential information such as bank accounts, credit card numbers, and other personal data. It can also disable hardware, prevent you from

using your computer and cause an entire network to crash. Malware is designed to replicate itself from one computer to the next; either through a network connection or via your email account, without your knowledge or consent.

and companies. Some have a grudge against the big software vendors (like Microsoft) and seek to harm them by attacking their customers (you). Others do it purely for fun. Whatever the reason, hackers are getting more intelligent and sophisticated in their ability to access computer systems and networks; as technology advances, Hackers are computer so do they. programmers, either amateur Though scary, all of these or professional, who have made issues can be managed. They a hobby of breaking into com- cannot ever be completely puter systems undetected. They stopped. With the proper tools design spyware and malware and being aware of the potential programs that attach your threats, the damage they can computer. cause can be vastly mitigated. Some of them have criminal Systems can provide you with intent and use these programs more information on best practo steal money from individuals tices and practical solutions. BILLINGSbusiness

Hackers

Business Briefs Local Commerce at a Glance

AE launches job website

Associated Employers, an 850-member business association based in Billings, has launched a new statewide job opening website, www. jobjupiter.com. In its first few months of operation, the website has already received 40,000 page views, according to Greg Roadifer, president of Associated Employers. Roadifer said Associated Employers decided to develop its own job-related website because its members

have grown frustrated with national job websites. Associated Employers is developing other projects, including an insurance enrollment and and employee benefits exchange, and a human resources system. Associated Employers wants to help Montana grow with technology-related companies which will help create higher paying jobs for the region.

Glacier Bancorp completes purchase Glacier Bancorp Inc. has

completed its acquisition of FNBR Holding Corp. and its subsidiary, First National Bank of the Rockies, a community bank based in Grand Junction, Colo. NBR shareholders will receive $16.3 million in cash and 555,733 shares of Glacier Bancorp, which should amount to a total value of $30.3 million, according to a news release. FNBR provides community banking services to individuals and businesses in northwestern Colorado, with 10 banking offices located in Grand Junction, Steamboat Springs, Meeker, Rangely,

Craig, Hayden, and Oak Creek. The branches will operate as a division of Glacier Bank under the name “Bank of the San Juans, division of Glacier Bank.” At June 30, 2014, FNBR had total assets of $345 million.

for the rest of the week largely booked. Sloulin Field International Airport has seen rising amounts of passengers since the oil boom started. The airport has two major carriers in United and Delta with daily flights to Minneapolis, Denver Houston-Williston and Houston. The Houston flight gives direct flights begin Williston another connecUnited Airlines began its tion to a major hub city. first-ever direct flights from George Bush Intercontinental Houston to Williston, N.D., in Airport, which the flight from August. Houston departs from, is the According to The Williston largest airport in Houston. It Wire, the inaugural flight had also serves as the largest hub one open seat, with the flights for United Airlines with more

than 650 daily departures. Houston is home to many major oilfield companies including Halliburton, Baker Hughes and National Oilwell Varco.

Sears store opens in Sidney

SIDNEY — Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores, Inc. has opened its newest Montana Sears Hometown Store in the Trifecta Home Center location at 1051 S. Central Ave. in Sidney. The Sidney location marks the 11th opening of a new

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Sears Hometown Store this year and the 25th opening of a new store across all of Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores formats. Unlike most retail concepts, Sears Hometown Stores combine the value, selection and services associated with larger retail stores but are they are independently owned and operated. “The addition of the new Sears Hometown Store inside our existing business will provide great value to the community,” said Becky Benson, who co-owns the new Sears Hometown Store in Sidney with her sister Teresa Benson. “Working with builders and homeowners, we recognized the need for a broader product and service assortment to assist customers with their projects. Now, they’ll have access to the nation’s top appliance brands at the lowest possible price. Our dedicated and knowledgeable Sidney team is complemented by our new in-store internet kiosks

where customers can price check appliances at other retailers and read customer reviews right in our store.” This store format allows customers in small communities to have access to products and brands usually found only in Sears stores. The Sears Hometown Store team in Sidney can be reached at (406) 4338900 and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on Sunday by appointment. To learn more about Sears Hometown Stores, visit www. searshometown.

Suit filed over oil cars

Environmental groups are suing the U.S. Department of Transportation over the shipment of volatile crude oil in older railroad tank cars. The lawsuit filed by the Sierra Club and ForestEthics says the agency failed to

respond a legal petition the groups filed in July. That petition sought an emergency order to prohibit crude oil from the Bakken region of North Dakota and Montana and elsewhere from being carried in older tank cars, known as DOT-111s. The groups are asking the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to order the agency to respond to its petition within 30 days. The government has proposed rules that would phase out tens of thousands of older tank cars that carry crude oil and other highly flammable liquids. The groups say that process will take too long given the risks. A response from Department of Transportation was not immediately available.

ning to wear thin. Jeans long have been a go-to staple in closets across the country. After all, not many pieces of clothing are so comfortable they can be worn daily, yet versatile enough to be dressed up or down. But sales of the iconic blues fell 6 percent during the past year after decades of almost steady growth. Why? People more often are sporting yoga pants and leggings instead of traditional denim. The shift is partly due to a lack of new designs since brightly colored skinny jeans were a hit a couple years back. It’s also a reflection of changing views about what’s appropriate attire for work, school and other places that used to call for more formal attire. “Yoga pants have replaced jeans in my wardrobe,” said Anita Ramaswamy, a ScottsJeans fading dale, Az., high-school senior in clothing sales who is buying more leggings NEW YORK — Americans’ and yoga pants than jeans. obsession with jeans is begin- “You can make it as sexy as

skinny jeans, and it’s more comfortable.” To be sure, the jeans business isn’t dead: Customer Growth Partners, a retail consultancy, estimates denim accounts for 20 percent of annual sales at the nation’s department stores.

million range. While national sales of that level would be a high plateau, some industry observers worry that automakers may slide back into overproduction as they struggle to keep quarterly earnings up. “I think 2014 will be the beginning of a plateau,” said Alec Gutierrez, senior market New-car sales analyst for Kelley Blue Book. may level off “We see sales growth remainThe shiny wheels that ing flat for the next three to helped keep the U.S. economy five years.” rolling for the last five years Moreover, the new-vehicle may finally be slowing. market seems to have shifted Rapidly rising new-vehicle from primarily “need” buyers sales provided much of the looking to replace old cars to shove that got the economy more volatile “want” buyers. moving again in 2009. “When most of your And those sales stayed buyers don’t need a new car, strong in August, increasing 6 you’ve got to sell the sizzle,” percent from a year ago while said Jesse Toprak, chief analyst probably headed for 4.5 perat Cars.com. “You may have cent overall growth this year. to work to get them into the But over the next several showroom.” years, growth will probably None of the analysts linger between flat and 2 anticipates a decrease in sales. percent annually, keeping Most, in fact, believe the busisales in the 16 million to 17 ness will remain robust.

it’s more than

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It’s getting rewards on the purchases you make every day. Now through December 31, 2014, FirstRewards business cardholders earn two points for every dollar spent on travel related expenses.* It’s bigger than banking. It’s you and together. Visit rewards.firstinterstate.com or call 1-888-833-3454 to learn more.

*Merchants are assigned codes and categorized based on what they sell. First Interstate Bank has no control over how a merchant is coded and although a merchant may appear to fall into a business travel category, there is no guarantee that the merchant code will align. Eligible purchases will receive only one point if the merchant code is not in the promotion category. Business travel categories include, but are not limited to: hotels, resorts, airfare, cruises, rental cars, taxi cabs and passenger railways. To qualify, purchases must be retail transactions. Eligible purchases include purchases for goods and services minus returns and other credits. Eligible purchases do not include fees, interest charges, balance transfers, cash advances, convenience checks, ATM transactions, or foreign transactions. Points will be credited to your FirstRewards account approximately five days after qualified transactions are posted to your credit card statement.

I October 2014

Billingsbusiness

Business Success StoriesBriefs Recognizing People and Local Achievements Commerce at a Glance

Hinz named vice president

Shawn Hinz was recently named vice president of public health services at RiverStone Health. In 1992, she joined RiverStone Health working in the Hinz area of Maternal Child Health, rising to the director of Family Health Services. Prior to joining the organization, she spent eight years as a case worker and supervisor of the Intake Unit for Child Protective Services. Hinz leads RiverStone Health’s public health effort, which was recognized in June as one of the first 50 health departments in the nation to receive accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board.

to heat and cool primarily large commercial project such as offices, apartment complexes, retirement homes and hotels in the United States. The systems are designed to each individual application and are extremely versatile The systems can also be used in residential as well as commercial applications.

Eide Bailly adds four

Eide Bailly LLP, a regional certified public accounting and business advisory firm, has hired Heather Staus, Brad Huber, Renee Liechti and Alyssa Sipes to its Billings office as tax associates.

Leavitt Group hires three

Brian Macy, Brett Fellows and Wendy Schermerhorn have joined the Leavitt Group agency in Billings. Scherr achieves Macy comes with nearly 20 certification years of experience, specializing Jeff Scherr, partner and in commercial insurance for the owner of Comfort Heating oil, gas and hospitality indusand Air Conditioning, LLC tries in Wyoming and Montana. has successfully passed the Fellows is an employee benefits four-day Mitsubishi City Multi adviser, specializing in risk certification program. Comfort management and employee Heating and Air Conditioning health care benefit solutions. is now certified to sell, install Schermerhorn has offered and service the Mitsubishi Medicare products since 2007, City Multi systems. These are which she will focus on along extremely energy efficient with exchange and life insursystems utilizing the new Vari- ance. able Refrigerant Flow Zoning Macy graduated with an astechnology. While most of the sociate’s of science from Sherirest of the world has enjoyed dan College and a bachelor’s this technology for many years of science from Montana State it is now the up and coming way University Billings. Macy served Billingsbusiness

on the Association of Wyoming Independent Agents board and founded the Wyoming Young Agents Association. Fellows has 20 years experience in the medical industry, including serving as a sales executive, district sales manager, hospital sales specialist and business owner. He earned a degree in business administration from the University of Montana. Schermerhorn’s first full-time job was in insurance, but she and her husband have also owned an auto body shop and car lot, and currently own Midwest Leather, a motorcycle gear shop.

CTA names architect

the state of Montana in May 2014. Fiechtl is a LEED Accredited Professional and a founding member of the United FIECHTL States Green Building Council Montana Chapter.

Hub Int’l hires agent

Jan Schaak has joined the staff of Hub International and will be selling and servicing in the life and health department. Schaak specializes in health insurance and senior Medicare and has nine years of SCHAAK experience.

After passing his architecture exam and attaining a license in mid-August, Cory Nelson has become the newest licensed architect at CTA Granite Realty Architects Engineers. Nelson has served as an architect-in- adds agents The following agents have training, specializing in comjoined Granite Realty: mercial projects, since joining Tammy Dobson (861-3918) CTA in July 2012. He holds two has 11 years experience and architectural degrees from specializes in residential and Washington State University. small farm and ranch. Her designations include Realtor/agent, High Plains AVR, CRS, GRI and SRJ. hires Fiechtl Karen Hayes (633-1278) has Anya Fiechtl has joined the 25 years experience in all areas staff at High Plains Architects. of real estate sales. Her designaFiechtl received her bachelor’s tion is GRI. of architecture degree from IlTimilynn Kisling (325-1414) linois Institute of Technology. has 10 years experience and She has 10 years experience in specializes in new construction. architecture and sustainable Her designation is GRI. design and became licensed in Marge McArthur (670-7575)

oversee the growing sales and marketing department. She spent several years in New York City as global head of marketing at Reward Gateway, Co-Organizer of The Seed and senior marketing manager at enter:marketing. A graduate of Montana State University Billings, she began her career in Las Meadow Lark Vegas where employees certified she worked Meadow Lark Companies Brill at Fontainehas announced that the desigbleau Resorts nation of Certified Transportaas a business tion Broker has been earned by marketing Barb Benfit, Lisa Polkow and analyst and Stephanie Brazill. This brings at Credit the number of Meadow Lark One Bank employees holding the CTB as a digital certification up to 11, includmarketing JACKSON ing Rick Jones, Mandy Roth, manager. Brandon Hurst, Stacy Haskell, Jackson Theresa Campbell, Erin Gallawill manage the company’s gher, Kristi Dickinson and Chris public relations initiatives, Goodridge. The Transportation Facebook, Twitter and other Intermediaries Association besocial media channels. A nastows the designation CTB on tive of Lewistown, , she spent an individual after the compleseveral years in Manhattan tion of an extensive examinawhere she graduated from tion program and the satisfacSt. John’s University before tion of ethical, educational and joining the media relations experience requirements. department at M Booth. After a stint in Nicaragua workAustin fills ing for Greenspot Travel, she served as an account executive 2 positions at French/West/Vaughan in Alexis Brill has joined Raleigh, N.C. Billings-based Austin AdBrill may be reached at ventures as marketing and alexis@austinadventures. sales manager and that Katie Jackson has come on board as com or 406-294-4590, and public relations and commu- Jackson may be reached at katie@austinadventures.com nications specialist. Brill, a Billings native, will or 406-366-0526. October 2014 I 41 has 15 years of experience and specializes in residential and investments. Jonine Smith (591-8733) has two years of experience and specializes in residential in both Billings and surrounding areas. Jennie Typanski (670-5606) has 18 years of experience and specializes in residential buying and selling.

BETTER business

If the information obtained in the credit check has informed your decision not to hire the individual, then you must provide that person with a copy of the report and the screening company that conducted the credit check.

Erin T. Dodge Erin T. Dodge, is an editor for the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Washington, Northern Idaho and Montana in Spokane. Contact the bureau at spokane.bbb.org.

I October 2014

B ackground checks can provide a measure of protection against crime There are many reasons a business would have a background check policy for job candidates. The main one is protecting the business, its employees and its customers from harm and legal action. Certain businesses have strong business reasons for certain types of background checks, such as child care and health care services, those handling money or financial data, those in the security sector, and those with a lot of driving involved. The most common pre-employment background screenings include credit checks, drug testing, criminal background and driving records. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, about 40 percent of businesses do not perform pre-employment background checks. After experiencing instances of employee theft, workplace violence, damage to company property and other employee misconduct, businesses tend to better appreciate the value of a background check over the complications and costs involved. Such an experience may encourage businesses to go to the extreme and perform any

and all background investigations to protect their interests. However, not all types of background checks are appropriate for every business and, if used improperly, could open up a business to charges of discrimination. Running a credit check on a prospective employee would be appropriate for businesses in which employees have access to sensitive financial data or customer information. The Fair Credit Reporting Act is the federal law that governs how credit checks can be obtained and used. To conduct one, you must get the individual’s written consent. If the information obtained in the credit check has informed your decision not to hire the individual, then you must provide that person with a copy of the report and the screening company that conducted the credit check. As a good business practice, many companies will give the job applicant a chance to explain any problems on the credit report. Some experts advise not letting a single credit issue to sway your hiring decision but to look for patterns in credit reports that could indicate potential problems, especially for a job

that requires a financial component. Pre-employment drug testing is covered by the Montana State Legislature’s Workforce Drug and Alcohol Testing Act of 1997. Businesses “may test any prospective employee as a condition of hire,” using a qualified testing program. However, if your business is thinking of instituting an ongoing drug and alcohol testing program as part of your employee review process, Montana’s Department of Labor and Industry strongly recommends seeking counsel from an attorney about applicable statues. A desire to keep employees and customers safe is one motivating factor for conducting a criminal background check on job applicants. Criminal background checks, including FBI checks, are performed through the Montana Department of Justice. It is important to understand federal and state laws regarding the use of criminal background checks for job applicant screening. Montana administrative rules state that businesses should not ask about arrest records, which could bring about suspicion of

discriminatory intent. However, asking about criminal convictions will not get an employer in trouble. When seeking driving records from the Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division, you must obtain a signed “Release of Driving Records” form from the individual. Included on the form is the intended use statement, which is regulated under the Montana Driver Privacy Protection Act. Businesses requesting such records should have good business reasons, directly related to the intended use of the record. When hiring an employee screening company, consider those that are members of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners, also referred to as NAPBS. The NAPBS promotes ethical business practices and compliance with state, federal and international laws. If you are considering implementing background screening as part of your hiring process or screening as part of ongoing employment considerations, you can find more information about federal and state laws from the following agencies:

n U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: http://www.eeoc.gov/ n U.S. Department of Labor: http://www.dol.gov/ n Montana Department of Justice, Background Checks webpage: https://dojmt.gov/ enforcement/backgroundchecks/ n Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Discrimination webpage: http:// erd.dli.mt.gov/human-rights If you have questions or concerns about performing pre-employment and employee background checks, you should consider consulting an attorney who specializes in labor law. Discussing the reasons your business conducts background checks with potential and current employees can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. A good approach is to be candid about the reasons, which often include the safety and protection of employees and customers and the financial well-being of the company. For helpful business toolkits, resources and guides, visit the Better Business Bureau online at http://www.bbb. org/council/for-businesses/ toolkits/. Billingsbusiness

Montana patents Bozeman, Clifton L. Cook of Sheridan, Wyo., and Eric M. Yeates of Virginia Beach, Va.: Multidisk accessory attachment platform. 8,783,532. July 22. Alliant Techsystems Inc. of Minneapolis, Minn. James D. Duford of Polson, James D. Jore of Polson,

Lincoln M. Jore of Ronan and James S. Smith of Lyons, Colo.: Methods and apparatus for optimizing structural layout of multi-circuit laminated composite assembly. 8,785,784. July 22. Boulder Wind Power, Inc. of Louisville, Colo. Michael James Hoggan

of Valier: Foot snare device. 8,793,926. Aug. 5. Universal Select-A-Catch LLC of Valier. Ronald G. Halderman of Billings and Karl D. Quackenbush of Blanchard, Mich.: Drilling fluid recovery when drilling under an obstacle or water body. 8,794,352. Aug. 5. Quanta

Associates, L.P. of Houston, Texas. Gerald Lee Schmidt of Bozeman: Telescopic sight alignment tool. 8,800,154. Aug. 12. Helene Bazin-Lee of Hamilton and Diane Mary Coe, Charlotte Jane Mitchell and Stephen Allan Smith,

all of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom: Adenine derivatives. 8,802,684. Aug. 12. GlaxoSmithKline LLC of Philadelphia, Pa. Gregory J. Wilson and Kyle M. Hanson, both of Kalispell: Flow battery system., 8,808,888. Aug. 19. Applied Materials, Inc. of Santa Clara, Calif.

Billings area filings in U.S. Woodcreek Drive, Aug. 5. Wayne Scott Jenkins, Andrea Bankruptcy Court, Aug. 1-31, 2014. Addresses are from Bill- Erin Jenkins, 4114 Morgan St., Aug. 6. ings unless otherwise noted. Janie Ray Morales, 2350 Highline Canal Road, Ballantine, Chapter 7 Jacqueline L Zehner, P.O. BOX Aug. 13. Adam Michael Gregory, 1443, Red Lodge, Aug. 4. Kristine Marie Gregory, 4 Cavalier Caree Jo Bernhart, 3988

Street, Aug. 14. Deborah J. Odenbach, 1741 Avenue B, Aug. 14. Daune A. Borer, 2652 N. 13th Road, Worden, Aug. 15. Dexter Blake Sherman, Tiffani Moe Sherman, 4315 Palisades Park Drive, Aug. 20. Rhoda L. Blakley, 163 Emerald

Hills Drive, Aug. 21. Tina Lu Fisher, 707 Bender Circle, Aug. 22. Harold Hugo Hoppe, Verleen Jane Hoppe, 2771 Phyllis Circle N., Aug. 24. Randall Carey Nava, 819 S. 28th St., Aug. 26. Andrew Johnson Grout,

Barbara Marie Grout, 955 Barbara Drive, Aug. 126. Daniel Douglas Dustin, 3426 Gallatin Place, Aug. 26. Barry John Stein, Jodee Jalene Stein, 1178 Toole Court, Aug. 27. Elizabeth S. Knapstad, 1221 Avenue C No. 4, Aug. 27.

Tina Louise Degele, 238 Wyoming Ave., Aug. 28. Todd Anthony Certain, 836 Yellowstone River Road Apt. 10. Aug. 29.

Evenson Trim Carpentry and Remodeling, 2626 Lewis Ave., 672-7783. Moments in Time Wedding and Event Rentals LLC Laurel, 208-9549. Curb Appeal Lawn Service, 208 Monroe St., 690-7239. Restaurant Consulting Services, 1250 15th St. W., 670-4483. Donald D. Whitmus, Wolf Point, 653-3262. Mike Neil Drywall, 2730 Rehberg Lane, 661-1962. Reimers Drywall, 808 Granite Estates Lane, 860-0020. Real Audio Concepts LLC, 903 Wicks Lane, 208-9890. Red’s Pet Services, 437 Killarney St., 671-9265. Squires Construction, Centerville, Utah, 801-299-0121. Heartstrings Gallery LLC, 110

N. 29th St., 598-1956. Dillon Selfridge, 1339 Cheryl St., 647-3471. Magic City Homes, 1610 Cinch Road, 647-3399. Rodeway Inn, 1315 N. 27th St., 245-4128. HSW Pharmaceutical Solutions LLC, 1726 Gleneagles Blvd., 534-3542. Riley’s Rods, 1222 Nasturtium Drive, 672-3821. Big Guy Barbecue, 5306 Larimer Lane, 671-2691. Ottrco Inc., 2261 Eldorado Drive, 670-7832. Pamilya Productions, 764 Antelope Place, 310-909-3206. Kim & Eddy’s, 2413 Montana Ave., 670-3453. Ponderosa Acres, 1301 Industrial Ave., 612-823-6275. Young People Working LLC,

Colorado Springs, Colo., 719-5931375. Spot On Cleaning Services, 30 Bing St. N., 647-3765. Interstate Complete Restoration Construction and Service, Fort Worth, Texas, 817-293-0035. Praise Construction, 121 S. 26th St., 647-9237. Montana Builders LLC, 302 Lewis Ave., 698-8451. BH Contracting, 1118 Minuteman St., 860-0658. Cherry Berry (Main), 315 Main St., 259-7147. Cherry Berry (24th), 805 24th St. W., 534-3383. Megerth Construction, Kalispell, 471-6790. Magic City Builders LLC, 576 Constitution Ave., 694-2606. Malinski Construction LLC, 3124 St. Johns Ave., 860-7436.

River Rock Painting, 34 Chestnut Drive, 548-8314. Waldhauser Construction, Worden, 209-304-4623. Kristimarke Construction, 3046 Myrtle Drive, 860-3306. Verna’s Varieties, 1715 Front St., 665-5546. X Bar S Enterprises, 3045 Golden Acres Drive, 697-4353. J & L’s Plaster & Paint, 2011 13th St. W., 794-4333. Triihouse, 1315 Cheryl St., 697-3565. C & M Builders, 22 Lapin St., 672-2108. B-Boe Drywall & Construction, 1142 Bench Blvd., 702-3812. Jeff Ward Electric, Columbus, 697-3477. Sayre Sprinkler, 7004 Custer Ave., 656-2571. Marimor Inc., 4336 Brockton

Below are listed U.S. patents issued to Montana inventors July 22-Aug. 19, 2014. For assistance in patent filing, call Billings patent attorney Antoinette M. Tease at 406-294-9000. Thomas M. Gregory of Belgrade, Robert A. Kincaid of

Bankruptcies

Chapter 13 Michael Dover, Heidi Dover, 2208 Custer Ave., Aug. 19.

Business licenses The following business licenses were issued during August, 2014. The information is collected by the city of Billings. G & T Services, 1611 Broadwater Ave., 534-1629. Lisa M. Culp, Ed.S. Consulting, 415 Highland Park Drive, 208-3053167. Greater Pride Construction, 1922 Edge Stone St., 696-1643. 406 Fabrication, 536 S. 18th St. W., 307-250-2009. Balance Diet, 1025 Shiloh Crossing Blvd., 652-9142. 406 Fab Lab, 536 S. 18th St. W., 855-2108. River Valley Construction, 1144 N. 22nd St., 272-2572. Tami McCallum LMT, 1813 Norwood Lane, 876-1359. R & T Construction, 20 Florine Billingsbusiness

Lane, 671-8159. The Storage Builders, LLC, Sheridan, Wyo., 307-673-9921. Jensen Roofing and Coatings, Laurel, 694-6959. AMD Creative Concrete & Construction, 4136 Murphy Ave., 671-7513. Stacked in Montana, 1101 Calico Ave., 208-5241. Creekside Therapeutic Massage, 1001 S. 24th St. W., 839-1066. American Home and Property LLC, 1925 Grand Ave., Suite 131, 839-6497. Owlist Art, 115 Cherry St., 252-7624. A+ Accounting & Consulting LLC, 2116 Broadwater Ave., 652-4063. GTS Drywall Company, 2639 Belknap Ave., 237-0480.

October 2014

Business licenses, continued Ave. S.W., 876-2204. Cornerstone Kids LLC, 1681 Gleneagles Blvd., 534-6262. Hardcastle Construction Incorporated, Washington, Okla., 405-288-2311. Heritage Homes West, 2021 Wentworth Drive, 248-1041. New World Construction, 2925 First Ave. N., 672-7839. Lou’s Handyman Service, 1118 Wren St., 208-5025.

Wapiti Ridge Construction LLC, 323 Terry Ave., 794-9542. T.E.A.M. Enterprises, Molt, 656-8326. JD Services LLC, 1621 Old Sorrel Trail, 794-2557. Montana Window Wear Drapery, Blinds & Shades, Laurel, 655-4825. Top Side Exteriors, 414 Sioux Lane, 247-0270. 2 Mom’s & A Vacuum, 2101

George St. Steiner Construction, 730 Sapphire Ave., 694-2420. A Better Choice “Creative Enterprises,” Huntley, 690-9831. Vertical Limit Construction LLC, Wanamingo, Minn., 507-8241411. D & J Gypcrete, 2307 Hawthorne Lane, 860-6971. Diamond Parking Services LLC, 520 N. 27th St., 254-7275.

JRJ Construction LLC, 217 S. 34th St., 794-9353. Custom Commercial Cleaning, 1669 Fantan St., 208-9694. R & R Massage Studio, 724 Grand Ave., 701-651-0002. MK Studio, Ballantine, 2089063. Tiger Painting, 3004 Nye Lane, 850-2858. Cardenas Construction, Park City, 598-8823.

KWS Construction Inc., 9041 Kautzman Road, 860-2180. Weeks Cleaning, Broadview, 860-8729. Whatley Contractors of Montana, Plano, Texas, 371-6762. Reconstruction Concepts LLC, 4264 Vaughn Lane, 307-250-2929. Dennis Bennett — Handyman, 1911 Canary Ave., 633-0500. Square Plumb Builders, 702 Avenue E, 860-8799.

5341 Denali Drive, Wells Built Homes, Wells Built Homes Inc., $186,215 5309 Denali Drive, Wells Built Homes, Wells Built Homes Inc., $186,215 New Single Family 5325 Denali Drive, Wells Built Homes, Wells Built Homes — 3215 Alpine Drive, Eaton, Inc., $186,215 William H., Eaton And Yost 2237 W Hollow Brook Drive, Contractors, $750,000 Boyer Land LLC, Design Builders 3968 Rifle Creek Trail, Poling, Inc., $318,650 Bradley John & Leslie, Diamond 1410 Benjamin Blvd., High Construction Inc., $440,340 Sierra II Inc, Dawson Builders, 1637 Hollyhock St., McCall $205,320 Development Inc., McCall Devel544 Boca Raton Road, opment, $250,630 Specialized Construction Inc, 1718 Hollyhock St., McCall Specialized Construction, Development Inc., McCall Devel- $197,070 opment, $211,340 6525 Northern Bluffs Way, 635 Boca Raton Road, SpeInfinity Homes, Infinity Homes cialized Construction, SpecialLLC, $306,300 ized Construction, $196,590 3418 Perth Circle, Above & 3047 Western Bluffs Blvd., Beyond Const., Above & Beyond AR Junkert., A.R. Junkert ConConstruction, $275,000 struction Inc., $261,675 2612 Meadow Creek Loop, 5329 Denali Drive, Wells BCJM Properties, Hanser ConBuilt Homes, Wells Built Homes struction Company, $201,990 Inc., $186,215 191 Legends Way, Pierson 5313 Denali Drive, Wells Jenson, Pierson Jensen ConBuilt Homes, Wells Built Homes struction Co., $210,000 Inc., $186,215 5719 Horseshoe Trail, Trails

West Homes LLC, Trails West Homes LLC, $217,985 846 Siesta Ave., Merriman, R. J., Mac Homes, $227,565 2936 Upper Highwood Drive, Dawson, Mark A., Classic Design Homes, $342,770 1416 Watson Peak Road, Twin Oaks Corporation, Twin Oaks Corp, $152,620 1418 Watson Peak Road, Twin Oaks Corporation, Twin Oaks Corp, $168,900 2430 Glengarry Lane, PM & M LLC, K.W. Signature Homes Inc., $274,730 3623 Quimet Circle, Classic Design Homes, Classic Design Homes, $318,205 3134 Peregrine Lane, L&L Construction LLC, L&L Construction LLC, $217,465 518 E Alkali Creek Road, Davis, Robert & Patti, Kay Homebuilders LLC, $369,685 5921 Foxtail Lane, Classic Design Homes Inc., Classic Design Homes, $197,305 4045 Backwoods Drive, Classic Design Homes, Classic Design Homes, $242,410 627 Boca Raton Road,

Specialized Const., Specialized Construction, $197,070 4126 Sedgwick Place, Home Builders Association, $239,510 1714 Hollyhock St., McCall Development Inc., McCall Development, $181,380 1725 Savona St., Ray & Dave LLC, R & R Builders, $153,645 1719 Savona St., Ray & Dave LLC, R & R Builders, $153,645 1729 Savona St., Ray & Dave LLC , R & R Builders, $153,645 1723 Savona St., Ray & Dave LLC , R & R Builders, $153,645 1715 Lone Pine Drive, McCall Development Inc., McCall Development, $162,740

struction LLC, $17,800 1013 Cottonwood Blvd., Neprud, Duane A. & Larae L., Lynnrich Inc., $11,314 22 19 St. W., Hartung, Ronald Allen & Carrie, One Source Construction LLC, $950 3018 Western Bluffs Blvd., Bob Pentecost Construction Inc, Bob Pentecost Construction, $15,600 745 Burlington Ave., McKittrick, Donna, $3,500 912 S. 29 St., Daniels, Larry J., Billings Window & Siding Spec., $6,500 5325 Burlington Ave., Dorn Construction, Dorn Construction LLC, $27,820 518 Pyramid Place, Anthony, Joseph D. Jr & Eva R., Win-Dor Industries, $1,541 2207 Spruce St., Kvamme, Phil H. & Lisa, Win-Dor Industries, $1,522 5433 Corner Stone Ave., Weisser, Rodney R., Win-Dor Industries, $4,387 2379 Larchwood Lane, Mackay, Amy & Tom, Win-Dor Industries, $3,311 1432 Avenue B, Linder,

Endeavoring Ark Enterprises, 339 Miles Ave., 794-7517. Royal Gutter, Shepherd, 7948627. MC Painting, 48 Buena Vista Ave., 371-3413. Michael Holley, LMHC, 1094 Lincoln Lane, 698-3010. Bryan’s Sports Cards, 1215 Terry Ave., 307-460-0640. RD Roofing, Great Falls, 2178878.

Residential Permits Addition Single/ Duplex/Garage — 2131 Pueblo Drive, Jas Dorie, Lou & Ben C., $4,550 3224 Horton Smith Lane, Godwin, David J. & Amy L., Brown Construction Inc., $15,540 1106 Avenue E, Bonawitz, Marijane B. & James L., $10,080 1148 Patriot St., Laedeke, James E. & Lila M., $3,000 235 Clark Ave., Dyre Jon T., Tieszen & Son’s Inc., $50,000

New Garage — 1014 N. 32 St., Morehead, Robert B. & Rachel L., $48,580 734 Aronson Ave., Schwalbe, Gary C. & Lynette M., $20,160 1550 River Edge Road, River Point Edge LKC, Marsich Investments, $6,500 3013 Avenue F, Sherman, Travis Eugene & Cynthia, $3,360 2936 Upper Highwood Drive, Dawson, Mark A., $25,025 44

I October 2014

518 E Alkali Creek Road, Davis, Robert & Patti, $42,000 858 South Heights Lane, Luhman, Tammy, $30,000

New Two Family — 4051 Orrel Drive, Community Leadership Development, Koinonia Housing Construction, $129,800

Remodel Single/ Duplex/Garage — 1426 King Charles St., King Heights LLC, Dorn Con-

Billingsbusiness

Residential Permits, continued Dianna C., Win-Dor Industries, $8,547 3719 Hayden Drive, Wood, Kent P. & Nichole E., Construction By Design, $1,900 15 Rhea Lane, Gigiox, Construction By Design, $7,800 3125 Smokey Lane, Proctor, Ted N. & Marilyn L., Win-Dor Industries, $2,947 871 Adobe Drive, Gasser, Scott E. & Heidi A., J D Construction, $300 2316 Shiloh Road, Franks, Carl L., $2,500 1118 Denway Place, Knutson, Roger A., All Season Construction, $8,000 1835 Alderson Ave., Korf, Megan L., All Season Construction, $1,000 1804 Bitterroot Drive, Anderson, Gerald L. & Scotta J., $4,000

28 Mission Hills Place, Forwood, Patricia A., One Source Construction LLC, $463 601 Nelson Drive, Kimmet, Heidi M., Big Sky Exterior Designs Inc., $7,500 1307 Cortez Ave., Propp, Jaryl P. & Amy L., Lynnrich Inc., $856 696 Bazaar Exchange, Taylor, Jerry F. Jr., Lynnrich Inc., $8,336 937 Alderson Ave., Crispen, Kathleen K. & Armand S., $1,000 1803 Ave. C, Hauber, William & Tricia, One Source Construction LLC, $573 3518 5 Ave. S., Andres, Christine K., $1,000 4288 Brandywood Drive, Ballard, Jeffrey S., Freyenhagen Construction Inc.,$17,000 1110 Strawberry Ave., Eide,

Natural gas isthe right choice!

Leon P. & Candace D., Cedar Valley Exteriors Inc., $280 1236 N. 25 St., McCord, Richard R., $6,800 5330 Merlot Lane, Ryan, Michael J., G & L Enterprizes, $28,000 1241 Frost St., Free, Mark E., Schroeder Contracting Inc., $1,200 2340 Ave. B, Lefore, Kimberly M.,$1,000 1132 St. Johns Ave., Lefore, Kimberly M., Muscle Medics, $1,000 2510 Lillis Lane, Wachmann, Lee Ann, Pella Window Store, $1,200 1738 Parkhill Drive, Tuomi, Sally Ann, Schroeder Contracting Inc., $3,500 3513 Central Ave., Rinney Fujiwra, $5,000 2321 Woody Drive, Dostal,

William G. & Kathleen D., $1,600 2856 Colton Blvd., Weller, Judith A., One Source Construction LLC, $1,100 3107 E. MacDonald Drive, Dayton, Michael L., Ty Nelson Construction, $25,000 1434 King George St., Butt, Jason & Tessa, Dave Spitzer Construction, $18,400 507 Luther Circle, Swenson, Harold D. & Sonja, One Source Construction LLC, $1,639 125 Uinta Park Drive, Gefers, Maria, Win-Dor Industries, $8,193 4532 Vaughn Lane, Ballard, Clara J., Win-Dor Industries, $6,793 1015 Avenue C, Boyce, Leo E. & Martha L., Win-Dor Industries, $11,513 638 Tabriz Drive, Rowley,

Johan O., Win-Dor Industries, $23,931 2841 Westwood Drive, Greteman, Edward F. & Elizabeth, Win-Dor Industries, $16,244 1111 Moon Valley Road, Copland, William & Kari, Win-Dor Industries, $25,849 818 N. 15 St., Todd Sharp, $7,000 3105 Gregory Drive, Fulton, William M. & Elizabeth, TB Construction, $6,500 2502 Howard Ave., Stadtmiller, Robert Leroy, $500 Plus 1,930 roofing, fencing and siding permits.

1-800-638-3278 Montana-Dakota.com clean • abundant • affordable • efficient • reliable • safe • domestic • environmentally friendly

In the Community to Serve®

Billings Commercial Building Permits September 2014 Fence/Roof/Siding

1 Shadow Place

Zarn Gerald W. & Arlyne Michel

Rambur Construction Inc.

Fence/Roof/Siding

2 Shadow Place

Longoria Reneau J.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$13,841

Fence/Roof/Siding

8 Shadow Place

The Robert & Donna Wallin Lvg

Rambur Construction Inc.

$27,600

Fence/Roof/Siding

20 Shadow Place

Lund Elinore B.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$13,841

Fence/Roof/Siding

26 Shadow Place

Connell Tempe Farley

Rambur Construction Inc.

$23,008

Fence/Roof/Siding

36 Shadow Place

Ruff Billie J.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$18,454

Fence/Roof/Siding

44 Shadow Place

White John M. & Regina M.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$13,841

Fence/Roof/Siding

50 Shadow Place

Frank Sonja

Rambur Construction Inc.

$23,068

Fence/Roof/Siding

1 Meadow Glen St.

Payne Dorsey J. & Lauren C.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$23,068

Fence/Roof/Siding

1305 4 Ave. N.

W B Y – LLC

DLV Roofing Inc.

$42,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

209 Wicks Lane

Lyle Terry L.

Terry Lyle Rental.

$10,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

3131 Iron Horse Trail

Lai Khoon Eng

Home Value Restoration

$30,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

1221 28 St. W.

Grand Park LLC

ABC Seamless Of Billings Inc.

$1,730

Fence/Roof/Siding

3311 2 Ave. N.

Khan Real Estate LLC

Infinity Roofing & Siding Inc.

$34,353

New Hospitals/Institutions

1636 Inverness Drive

Earthtone Holdings LLC

Christianson & Muller

Billingsbusiness

$18,454

$1,000,000

October 2014

Billings Commercial Building Permits September 2014, continued New Parking Lot/Non-Building Structure

1240 S 29 St. W.

Boise Cascade Building Material

Remodel

316 S. 24 St. W.

Rimrock Owner LP

$80,000

Remodel

7 N. 17 St.

J & S Properties Inc.

Empire Lath & Plaster Inc.

$40,000

Remodel

125 S. 24 St. W.

Rimrock Mini-Mall LLC

Shaw Construction

$13,000

Remodel

745 Henesta Drive

Hawkins David C. & Barbara K.

Lais Development Inc.

$50,000

Remodel

1027 Shiloh Crossing Blvd.

Shiloh Crossing LLC

Langlas & Assoc. Inc.

$80,216

Remodel

2822 3 Ave. N.

Two Valleys Realty Inc.

$7,000

Remodel

404 N. 30 St.

Andrews Mary Ann

$1,500

Fence/Roof/Siding

415 Avenue D

Casterline Paul C.

Commercial Roof Wtr Proof

Fence/Roof/Siding

1841 Grand Ave.

Ray John M.

Trademark Restoration Services LLC

Fence/Roof/Siding

2005 Clubhouse Way

Lesser Brian L. & Judith A.

L & L Roofing

$17,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

3758 Avenue B

Hagen Robert D. & Rebecca A.

Dale Construction

$41,300

Fence/Roof/Siding

1536 Yellowstone Ave.

Raines Sara L.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$5,553

Fence/Roof/Siding

1540 Yellowstone Ave.

Robbins Mindy J.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$5,553

Fence/Roof/Siding

1544 Yellowstone Ave.

Reaves Kimberley D.

Rambur Construction Inc.

$6,941

Fence/Roof/Siding

520 Hansen Lane

Nave Properties LLC

All Seasons Roofing

$27,390

Fence/Roof/Siding

421 St Johns Ave.

Rainbow Motel

Dream Home Restoration

$15,200

Fence/Roof/Siding

2040 Burnstead Drive

Daphne Gates Thompson Living

Kirkness Roofing & Supply

$50,085

Fence/Roof/Siding

1348 Main St.

Harris Rental Properties LLC

Second To None Const.& Remodel

Remodel

1441 Governors Blvd.

School District 2

Precision Plbg. & Htg. Inc.

$700,000

Remodel

3700 Madison Ave.

School District 2

Stevens Brothers Mechanical

$250,000

Remodel

681 Alkali Creek Road

School District No. 2

Precision Plbg. & Htg. Inc.

Remodel

1025 Shiloh Crossing Blvd.

Shiloh Crossing LLC

Remodel

1050 S. 25 St. W.

A.W.A.R.E. Inc.

Remodel

100 24 St. W.

Central Avenue Mall

Remodel

5509 King Ave. E.

Womac

Remodel

25 Hilltop Road

Trinity Church Of Nazarene

Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Carpentry

$27,000

Remodel

3020 State Ave.

Western Sugar Co.

Construction By Design Inc.

$53,500

Fence/Roof/Siding

745 Parkway Lane

HM Holding Company LLC

Jones Construction Inc.

$25,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

841 N. 17 St.

Eighth (8th) Avenue North Limi

Brock Barney Construction Inc.

$10,800

Fence/Roof/Siding

831 N. 17 St.

Eighth (8th) Avenue North Limi

Brock Barney Construction Inc.

$8,800

Fence/Roof/Siding

910 8 St. W.

Dvorak Norman L. & Margaret L.

Fence/Roof/Siding

1541 Wyoming Ave.

Martwig Molly

Rambur Construction

$5,553

Fence/Roof/Siding

2290 Grant Road

HHI LLP

Empire Htg. & Cooling

$25,870

Fence/Roof/Siding

1537 Wyoming Ave.

Miller Brenda D.

Rambur Construction Inc.

Fence/Roof/Siding

3200 Broadwater Ave.

Mt Conf Assn Of 7th Day Adventists

Infinity Roofing & Siding Inc.

$110,281

Fence/Roof/Siding

1520 Virginia Lane

Jensen Blaine

Infinity Roofing & Siding Inc.

$8,022

New Office/Bank

3289 Gabel Road

Bottrell Family Investments

Treco Constructors Inc,

New Warehouse/Storage

224 Prickett Lane

Junebug LLC

$151,135

New Warehouse/Storage

224 Prickett Lane

Junebug LLC

$103,408

New Warehouse/Storage

224 Prickett Lane

Junebug LLC

$79,545

Remodel

505 Milton Road

School District 2

Remodel

790 King Park Drive

Bk Re 5165 LLC

I October 2014

Weber Gary Construction Inc..

$416,000

$32,000 $7,300

$8,855

$90,000 $28,000

Kenco Enterprises Inc.

$12,626 $63,720 $14,500

$5,000

Plumb Mt Inc.

$5,553

$3,390,000

$72,000 $250,000

Billingsbusiness

Billings Commercial Building Permits September 2014, continued Remodel

1901 Terminal Circle

City Of Billings (Airport)

Plumb Mt Inc.

$271,000

Remodel

2545 Central Ave.

Qayum Investments Properties

Remodel

404 N. 30 St.

Andrews Mary Ann

Addition

820 N. 31 St.

School District 2

Dick Anderson Construction

Fence/Roof/Siding

1524 Main St.

Pauline Staley Trust

Destefano Construction Services

$50,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

420 Lordwith Drive

Howard Steven P.

Kohlman Construction

$40,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

1511 Poly Drive

Rocky Mountain College

Commercial Roof Wtr Proof

$10,500

Fence/Roof/Siding

2910 Minnesota Ave.

Stevenson Kaye

4M Construction Inc.

$16,775

Fence/Roof/Siding

236 Aristocrat Drive

Painter Family Trust DTD

Built Wright Homes & Roofing Inc.

$9,600

Fence/Roof/Siding

3123 8 Ave. S.

Friendship House Of Christian

Bradford Roof Management Inc.

$20,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

3940 Rimrock Road

Lutheran Retirement Home Inc.

Bradford Roof Management Inc.

$14,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

801 S. 28 St.

Southern Lights LP

B & B Disaster Restoration

Fence/Roof/Siding

755 Asteroid Ave.

Herman Ronald D.

Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Contractors Inc.

Fence/Roof/Siding

1512 Lake Elmo Drive

RGP Partnership

Brock Barney Construction Inc.

$21,500

Footing/Foundation

750 Southgate Drive

Popelka Enterprises LLC

Laughlin Construction Inc.

$75,000

New Office/Bank

1241 N. Transtech Way

Bottrell Family Investments LI

Hardy Construction Co.

New Other

10 N. 19 St.

Pelatt Trust LLC

Capital Development Inc.

New Other

4040 Parkhill Drive

RK Development LLC

EEC Inc.

New Store/Strip Center

524 Jerrie Lane

Espy James A.

Jones Construction Inc.

New Warehouse/Storage

1026 Bench Blvd.

Billings Storage LLC

$175,098

New Warehouse/Storage

1026 Bench Blvd.

Billings Storage LLC

$741,778

$140,000 $40,000 $660,000

$800,000 $30,000

$2,215,000 $5,000 $15,500 $4,137,380

New Warehouse/Storage

1026 Bench Blvd.

Billings Storage LLC

$450,755

New Warehouse/Storage

1026 Bench Blvd.

Billings Storage LLC

$270,453

Remodel

2950 King Ave. W.

King Condo LLP

Dick Anderson Construction

$200,000

Remodel

11 N. 28 St.

Donovan Properties

Bob Pentecost Construction

$350,100

Remodel

3940 Rimrock Road

Lutheran Retirement Home Inc.

$5,000

Remodel

3940 Rimrock Road

Lutheran Retirement Home Inc.

$2,500

Remodel

401 N. 28 St.

Billings Gazette Communications

Hulteng Inc.

Remodel

2290 King Ave. W.

Property Tax Dept 69

Klimate Heating Cooling

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I October 2014

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