January Chamber Connection

CHAMBER CONNECTION Bismarck-Mandan

January 2016

BEHAVIORIAL HEALTH IN THE

WORKPLACE

10

Member Profile Total Energy Concepts

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Tis the Season for Holiday Cheer The Chamber’s Annual Holiday Mixer is bigger and better than ever.

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Annual Dinner The Chamber’s premier event of the year is January 14th.

CHAMBER CONNECTION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Perrie Schafer..................................................................................................................... Chair Brenda Nagel ........................................................................................................... Chair-Elect Ron Day....................................................................................................................... Secretary Craig Larson.................................................................................................................Treasurer Rick Matteson............................................................................................................ Past Chair Kelvin Hullet................................................................................................................ President

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Annette Behm-Caldwell.....Open Road Honda Perrie Schafer ���������������� Schafer Financial Inc. Brenda Nagel ������������������������������������������Aetna Jeff Herman ������������������������������������Petro Hunt Sandi Tabor �������������������������������������������������KLJ Craig Larson ���������������������������Starion Financial Molly Barnes............... Northern Improvement Kevin Magstadt ������������������ Wenck Associates Jeff Albers ��������� Schwan Buick GMC Cadillac Paul Brucker ������������������� Railway Credit Union Chris Jones ����������������� CHI St. Alexius Health Stacey Breuer ��������������������������Bobcat/Doosan Chris Brown �������������������������������������������� Motix Mike Nathe................ Bismarck Funeral Home Marc Taylor...........Northern Plains Equipment Tracy Kindem...........H.A. Thompson and Sons Rick Matteson �������������MDU Resources Group Joe Duperre ������������������������������Kirkwood Mall Dan Pearson �����������������������������Northwest Tire Jasper Schneider ������������������������������������ NISC Wayne Munson �������������������� Indigo Signworks Blake Feil ����������������������������� Feil Orthodontics Greg Vetter �������������������������University of Mary Nick Hacker................. ND Guaranty and Title Ron Day......................Tesoro Mandan Refinery Heather Fried ..... Fried Financial Services Inc.

CHAMBER STAFF Kelvin Hullet................................................................................................................ President Annie Bergrud.........................................................................................Chief Financial Officer Mary Masters................................................................................. Office Support Professional Ryan Parsons..............................................................................Vice President of Membership Rebecca Rattei................................................................................ Communications Specialist Amanda Schwieters......................................................................... Member Services Director Chelse Simon..................................................................................Membership Sales Director Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Anderson ........................ Communications Specialist/ LBM Director Mikalah Dahl ....................................................................................Marketing & Events Intern

CHAMBER NEWS

Q&A with Chamber President Kelvin Hullet Tis the Season for Holiday Cheer Leadership Bismarck-Mandan

CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner January Membership Mixer: University of Mary Lunch and Learn presented by Sister Kathleen Atkinson February Membership Mixer: KLJ

Isn’t it about time you put our team to work for you? Give us a call today!

Discover the difference ... Discover BNC!

Chair’s Corner

3

FEATURES

Cover Story 4 Member Profile 10 Ask-A-Pro 28 Chamber Perks 30 1640 Burnt Boat Drive P.O. Box 1675 Bismarck, ND 58502 701.223.5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com CONTACT INFORMATION Content: The Chamber - 701.223.5660 rparsons@bismancc.com

Advertise: Ryan Parsons rparsons@bismancc.com

MISSION STATEMENT: Leaders for prosperity. Advocates for business.

www.BNCbank.com

Dave Hoekstra

CCO and President, BNC North Dakota

Wayne Harvison

Chad Scott

SVP Business Banking

Craig Hanson

VP Business Banking

Business Banking Officer

Marc Menge

Rheannon Huber

Business Development Manager

Bismarck: 322 E Main Avenue • (701) 250-3000 & 801 E Century Avenue • (701) 250-2700

2 | Chamber Connection

16 16 17 17

COLUMNS

BUSINESS B ANKING The biggest difference between BNC National Bank and the new banks popping up all over — is our people — solid professionals who make up an experienced team providing financial solutions business people demand.

That comes from hard work, straight talk, sound advice and solid financial guidance.

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Personal Banking Officer

Kevin Stadler

Jason Arenz

SVP Business Banking

SVP Business Banking

Clay Brosz

Nate Palczewski

Business Banking

Janelle Feist

Personal Banking Officer

Retail Manager

Neal Presser

Deposit Operations Supervisor

Mandan: 2711 Sunset Drive NW • (701) 663-5448

President’s Corner

I

t’s January. Welcome to 2016. This is Kelvin…I am commandeering the January Chairman’s Corner to write a few words before my departure on January 15.

What a run we’ve had together over the last 13 years. The dynamic changes that occurred in our community are remarkable as it transitions from a big town to a small city. As we look to the economic future, there will be a few bumps along the way but the path forward is solid.

As I clean out my office, I wanted a chance to say thanks! Thanks to the board of directors, board Chairs, committee chairs, current and past staff, Chamber members, elected officials and the community for their support of the organization and our initiatives. Together, we have accomplished so much and built a solid foundation on which the next generation can stand.

At times, I’m sure the board thought we’d lost it as a staff. Like, the time we wanted to name a submarine for the state. Wally Goulet, who was board Chair, still laughs about THAT Executive Committee meeting. I don’t know why they thought it was a joke. I always appreciated the freedom the board allowed for the facilitation between state and local issues. Only Capital Cities get that kind of opportunity.

While many point to “My” success as a Chamber President, it was anything but me. My job was to implement the initiatives and policies of the Board of Directors. The credit belongs to the all the board, committee and task force members and the committee and board Chairs for their leadership and willingness to accept risk. Sometimes, the risk was well beyond the comfort level, but it was calculated and required to move things forward.

The Chamber has engaged in a number of projects and initiatives over the last decade, and they stand as a record of success. They are significant; however, my hope is that history judges our generation on the basis of acceptance and enhancement of business community leadership. That is really the foundation of the success. Applying private sector principals to problems and opportunities created successful private-public partnerships and allowed us to leverage resources and funding. I think that is a keynote accomplishment.

Before I close, I want to say a heartfelt word of thanks to the staff. I’m not even sure where to start. I’ve often said I could take this staff to any Chamber in America and they could run it. Their loyalty and initiative on behalf of the members is genuine and they prove it on a daily basis. They are the heart and soul of the program delivery to the members and I will miss working with them. In addition to the hard work, we’ve had a lot of fun along the way.

On a personal note, I want to say thanks for welcoming and making our family part of the community. This is now our home and our extended family discovered you can come to North Dakota without a passport! While I say goodbye, I am not leaving and look forward to working with many of you in my new capacity at the Bank of North Dakota.

Thank you.

- Kelvin L. Hullet Chamber Connection | 3

FEATURE

ADDICTION AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ISSUES IN THE WORKPLACE TAKING A PROACTIVE APPROACH PROMOTES BUSINESS WELLNESS

By Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications

Addiction and behavioral health issues have long impacted the workplace, but stigma, shame and fear caused many to suffer in silence. Now, with more public information and education available, these issues are being brought to the forefront, and employers are implementing wellness programs and workplace initiatives to help prevent, identify and treat addiction and behavioral health issues.

Facing Addiction and Behavioral Health Issues

“About 10 percent of adults struggle with drug and alcohol addiction, and nearly half of U.S. adults report knowing someone struggling with addiction,” says Jim Sturdevant, director of strategy for Face It TOGETHER Sioux Falls. “In addition, 70 percent of addiction sufferers are employed.”

Face It TOGETHER, a program piloted in Sioux Falls, S.D., provides communities with tools to solve addiction by enlisting employers to integrate addiction recovery programs into employee benefit programs to improve the bottom line, enhance corporate culture and save lives.

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4 | Chamber Connection

The organization is also establishing programs in Bismarck, Fargo, and Bemidji, Minn. Recently, residents of Grand Forks also began exploring the program.

“More leaders are talking frankly about the disease and recognizing their role in helping people understand addiction is a treatable, chronic disease; that getting and staying well is possible; and help is available,” says Marnie Walth, interim executive director of Face It TOGETHER Bismarck-Mandan.

Impacting the Workplace

“The use of narcotics in our country has grown exponentially in the last five years, and at no other time in our history have there been so many people dealing with stress,” says Dr. Joel Blanchard with Sanford Health Occupational Medicine, noting 48 percent of the population gets prescriptions for narcotics each year.

“These things impact absenteeism and presenteeism in the workplace, which is much more of an expense to business than health and pharmacy cost.”

According to statistics provided by Face It TOGETHER, addiction costs the nation’s employers $250 billion each year in lost productivity. On average, untreated addiction in the workplace costs employers $1,700 per employee each year.

Blanchard says the rate of addiction and behavioral health issues today also illustrates a shift in society’s connectedness to technology and the workplace. “Pre1950s people were always busy doing a lot of heavy work and physical things, before devices were made to make life easier,” he notes. “Now, we are always connected to work and each other. There is now this internal stress that keeps us jumping from one thing to the next that you didn’t see in the 1940s and 50s.”

He notes those entering the workforce in recent years also faced increased challenges. “Millennials have gone through two recessions, and they’ve had difficulty finding work among high expectations, adding to anxiety and stress levels,” says Blanchard.

www.bismarckmandan.com Additional statistics from Face It TOGETHER highlight health care costs for employees with addiction problems are twice those of other employees, and employees with alcohol addiction use twice as much sick leave and are five times more likely to file workers’ compensation claims.

While some jobs have higher stress levels, which can contribute to addiction and behavioral health issues, Blanchard says these issues impact all jobs and professions. “People from all walks of life, social classes, racial or ethnic backgrounds, and professions are affected,” adds Walth.

Lost Work Days and Dollars

Blanchard says behavioral health issues and addiction have a significant financial impact on both employers and employees. “When a person is missing from work, it is equivalent to 1.4 people missing. They are not at work and are getting paid, and their team cannot complete its full job.”

He notes if an individual with addiction or behavioral health issues remains at work, they are still impacting their workplace. “They cannot perform their job appropriately and are not functioning at their prime.”

This can lead to a reprimand or even firing, further costing the business valuable resources. “There is a lot of cost associated with rehiring and retraining individuals, which impacts the employer and the other employees,” says Blanchard.

The Face It TOGETHER organization notes employee turnover costs range from 50 to 200 percent of the replaced employee’s monthly salary for recruitment, lost productivity and training replacement staff. Turnover brings the additional potential costs of department productivity loss, morale degradation, staff concerns for their own roles, and loss of engagement within the company. “Individuals with addiction problems are also far more likely to have worked for three or more employers in the previous year,” adds Sturdevant.

Workplace Initiatives

“Employers can play a major role in solving a community’s drug and alcohol challenges,” says Walth. “Solving addiction in the workplace fosters a healthier workforce, improves productivity and work quality, reduces health care costs and increases profits.

It also helps improve the quality of life in the whole community.”

Chamber Connection | 5

FEATURE Blanchard says it is important employers and employees take a proactive approach to behavioral health and addiction issues in the workplace. “One of the biggest ideas is creating an atmosphere of wellness in the workplace,” he notes. “With a good wellness program, it is reviewed by health care professionals and problems can be identified. This can help lead individuals to getting help.”

He notes it is also important to promote a work and family balance. “A proactive approach to addiction and behavioral health issues has employees feeling like they are cared for,” says Blanchard. “This can have a significant impact on employees.”

“Overall, employers can maintain a caring workplace culture in which people with addiction and other chronic diseases are supported through their wellness journeys,” adds Walth, noting on a broader level, employers can also have a significant impact as key payors of health care and health plans. “They can help drive the community narrative that addiction is a chronic disease and many, many people deserve access to quality, long-term care, just like any other illness.”

In her current role as interim director of Face It TOGETHER Bismarck-Mandan, Walth says she has been meeting with community and business leaders to promote the program and its workplace initiatives.

“Businesses are starting to voice their concern with witnessing the impact of addiction in the workplace,” she notes.

6 | Chamber Connection

Sturdevant says programs can be customized for each employer. “The key elements are a series of programs for education, supervisor training, human resources support, navigating people to care and the measurement of outcomes. The Workplace Initiative is a compelling value proposition to employers of all sizes and types.”

In the Sioux Falls community, he notes, more than 35 major employers are involved in the program and represent about a third of the area’s workforce. “It not only gets people well, it’s good for business,” says Sturdevant.

“There is still a great deal of stigma and misunderstanding around addiction and the people who suffer from it,” notes Walth. “The conversation is starting to change in large part because more survivors are publicly sharing their experiences. Those personal stories help break down barriers by showing that ‘regular people’ are impacted by addiction, getting well is possible, and life as a survivor is rich and fulfilling.”

For additional information on Face It TOGETHER Bismarck-Mandan, contact Walth at mwalth@ faceitbismarck.org or 701-323-8745.

www.bismarckmandan.com

2015

PLENTI{FULL} At Touchmark, residents say living well means …

Thank You Sponsors!

Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Bismarck/Mandan

Bronze Sponsors

Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND Cellular Communications Epic Sports Leingang Home Centers Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation

Hors D’oeuvres Sponsors

Worrying less.

Baymont Inn & Suites Lady J’s Catering

Networking Lounge Sponsor I. Keating Furnature World

Booth Sponsors Agency MABU Allstate Insurance - Vanessa Monteith Agency Anytime Fitness - Mandan Aspen Group Bain Agency BalanceDiet of Bismarck BAM - Brand Aware Marketing Bartlett & West Inc. Baymont Inn & Suites Be Mobile BEK Communication Biolife Plasma Services BisMan Community Food Co-op Bismarck Airport Bismarck Cancer Center Bismarck-Mandan CVB Bismarck Parks & Recreation The Bismarck Tribune Bobcat Hockey Bremer Bank Broadway Centre Spa & Salon Capital Credit Union Capital Trophy Coldspring Cloverdale Foods Coaches Choice CPA State Society Dakota Adventist Academy Dakota Carrier Network Dakota Foot & Ankle Dakota Pharmacy Dunn Bros. Coffee EAPC Architects Engineers Eide Bailly LLP Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Fundamental Furniture Gate City Bank Gateway to Science Golder Associates Harlow’s Trailways Hirsch Floral & Gifts Holiday Inn of Bismarck

Having more friendships.

iHeart Media KFYR TV Kirkwood Mall KK Bold KXMB CBS 12 Lacey’s Custom Jewelry Legacy Storage Solutions Liberty Business Systems Marco, Inc. McQuade Distributing Inc. Missouri River Pages MOJO/ Big Rig My Place Hotel NDAREC - North Dakota Living New Vision Security Network Center Inc. Northern Lights LASIK Northwest Tire NRG Technology Services Open Road Honda Prairie Zen Botanicals Pride Inc. Proximal50 Life Center Rainmaker Group Ramada Hotel & Conference Center Rasmussen College S&S Promotional Group Sanford Health Occupational Medicine SCORE SEH Inc Shiloh Christian School Slip Solutions, LLC Starion Financial Thrifty White Drug Touchmark TLC Vision Bismarck Transworld Business Advisors of Bismarck University of Mary United Printing United Tribes Technical College Vogel Law Vue Community Credit Union Your Home Improvement Company

Exercising more.

Eating healthier.

Being more social.

Independent Living Cottages & Apartments Assisted Living · Memory Care Health & Fitness Club Learn more: 701-557-9289 TouchmarkBismark.com/info TOUCHMARK ON WEST CENTURY Full-service Retirement Community 1000 West Century Avenue • Bismarck, ND 58503 1512059 © Touchmark, LLC, all rights reserved

Chamber Connection | 7

FEATURE

Q&A WITH CHAMBER PRESIDENT KELVIN HULLET

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

As Kelvin Hullet prepares to leave this month, he sat down for a Q&A about his 12 years as President of the BismarckMandan Chamber of Commerce.

Q: You started with the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce in June 2003. What was your impression of Bismarck-Mandan when you started in your position?

A: It was obvious in 2003 that Bismarck-Mandan was a community with unlimited potential. There were just so many components to the economy positioned to grow. I use the term “tipping point.” It was apparent the community was at that tipping point where it was going to transition from a big town to a small city. Getting to be part of that transition was a really intriguing opportunity.

The second thing that impressed us was the people. When we interviewed, there was just an automatic connection to the leadership and to the Board (of Directors). It just felt like the right fit. And that feeling continues today. We’ve raised our kids here, we have great friends, this is our home and Amy and I plan to finish our careers in North Dakota.

Q: What was your vision for the Chamber of Commerce when you started in 2003?

A: One was to enhance the leadership position of the organization in the community. I think a big part of my responsibility was to help the organization, and the community, outline a vision for growth. Fortunately, a solid foundation had already been established by the previous boards and leadership. Our charge was to lead a transformative vision for the Chamber and the community.

Q: How does the Chamber of Commerce compare to that vision 12 years later?

A: Well, your work is never done. But we have definitely achieved some of the vision that we set out to do. When we look at the Chamber today, it is a dynamic organization with a solid strategic plan that is considered a strong voice for business and the community.

I think the Chamber has solidified its leadership position in the community — for projects and also for initiatives.

People look to the Chamber to lead, and the board and members have stepped forward to guide many game changing initiatives with their time, talent and funding. We also spend a lot of time talking with elected officials and with other organizations about their vision and how to cooperate together to build the community.

8 | Chamber Connection

Q: What were your goals for the Chamber of Commerce when you started in 2003?

A: The major challenge with an organization like the Chamber is to be relevant to the members. That was a key goal. We did that by listening to the members and ensuring the Chamber offered quality programs and events. And, also to make sure our members were prepared for the dynamic change that was coming to the community. I think those were a couple of key goals.

Obviously you always want to grow the Chamber membership and expand the budget, and we’ve done that. The other part was to ensure we were viewed as an organization that serves the entire community. That we work with Bismarck and Mandan and others across the region and the state.

Q: Do you feel like there is unfinished business?

A: Oh, always. Being a Chamber President, you look at what can be accomplished in your generation of leadership. There is a dynamic mix of policy, politics and community acceptance or need that must foster into an actionable project. For the board, I always tried to bring forward the “Legacy Projects” that seemed to be actionable. I think we accomplished a lot in the last 12 years but the work is never done. Hopefully, we did our part to lay the foundation for future success.

While I am transitioning out, there are a couple things already in the works for the new President. It is going to be their responsibility, along with the board, to figure out the things that they can accomplish with their generation of leadership.

Q: What do you consider some of your key accomplishments over the past 12 years?

A: First, I think we’ve built a very strong, professional staff at the Chamber. We’ve positioned the organization as one that can lead in a period of dynamic change and understand the needs of the business community and respond in an effective manner. When I look out in the community, I see our staff “Alumni” in various leadership positions and it speaks to the quality of people who work here.

Second, is leadership. Today, the business community initiates and leads projects for the betterment of the community. Business leadership is a key aspect of the organization developed through the Board of Directors, committees and the Major Employers Roundtable. We consistently ask the question, “How do you make sure as an organization and as a community you’re responding to the needs that build the base for a dynamic, economic future?”

www.bismarckmandan.com When I got here 12 years ago, we would talk about a project and somebody would say, “Well, do you think we can figure out how to get the State (of North Dakota) to pay for that?” Today, when we’re moving a project forward like the Community Bowl, air service or FiveSouth it wasn’t a question of “Can we get somebody else to pay for it,” it was “How do we apply private sector principles to make this project happen?”

Third, is the cooperation within the business community and the associated organizations. The development of the Prosperity Agenda with the BMDA is a turning point. It defines and clarifies the roles in the community creating a broader base for cooperation on issues and projects.

Fourth, is the record of legislative accomplishments. Over the last few sessions, our Chamber has worked with local legislators to develop and implement legislation for the community.

From general business issues such as taxes and regulation to the remediation project in Mandan; the Outdoor Heritage Fund; Affordable Housing and Child Care, the Chamber developed ideas to bring forward to address pressing issues.

Q: What major projects stand out?

A: The first big project we did in 2005-2006 was purchase the building. Buying a building was the last thing on our mind, but it has proven a great asset for the organization.

The support of the members to purchase and remodel the building created a central gathering point for the business community. The building also makes a statement about the professionalism of our organization.

Mandan was really struggling in the early 2000s. In addition to the lawsuit resolution, the Chamber initiated a strategic plan called Mandan Tomorrow in cooperation with the City Commission and the Park Board. That plan laid the groundwork for some of the things occurring today in Mandan.

The Community Bowl renovation is definitely a success.

It speaks for itself.

The USS North Dakota is not your average Chamber project. The Executive Committee laughed pretty hard when I pitched the idea thinking it was one of my jokes.

They gave in after a couple of Bob Wefald’s presentations.

It is amazing to think that a submarine, named for our state will defend America for the next 33 years.

FiveSouth is a transformative project that lays the groundwork for the next couple of decades. A consistent question is how to attract and retain young professionals.

Each generation of young people is looking for something different. Today, it is an urban environment that allows for interaction and networking. FiveSouth is the answer to that request and enhances the transition to a small city.

Kelvin Hullet’s Quirks and Catchphrases CATCHPHRASES “Bismarck-Mandan is making the transition from a big town to a small city.”

“I’m off to shake some hands and kiss some babies.”

“Don’t ask for permission. Ask for forgiveness.”

“Does anybody want anything from Starbucks?”

“Groovy.”

QUIRKS — Favorite foods: Coca Cola and chocolate donuts (Sometimes eaten together) — Will take any excuse to do Chamber business while golfing or hunting — Stocks the Chamber freezer with venison sausage — Has a soft spot for animals and is feeding the current stray Chamber cat with venison — Kelvin’s sock game is on point — Known as “Hullet the Bullet” by Sen. John Hoeven — Is a big fan of chocolate milk. Routinely forgets it in the Chamber fridge until it sours and someone throws it out.

— Kelvin is a history geek who knows North Dakota history better than native North Dakotans.

— Shortly after moving to Bismarck, his son, Clayton, ended up on the front page of the newspaper wearing no hat, no gloves and no winter coat, waiting for his parents to pick him up from school on a cold North Dakota day.

Chamber Connection | 9

CHAMBER

Profile

News

events

MEMBER PROFILE Featuring Paul Deichert

TOTAL ENERGY CONCEPTS

Q: Tell us about yourself and your role within the organization.

A: I have been an Energy Specialist with Total Energy Concepts since 2004, helping business owners save money on their energy costs. As a Regional Director for Total Energy Concepts, I cover all of ND, MT, SD, and into Eastern MN.

Q: What differentiates your company from its competitors?

A: We take a holistic approach which consists of multiple energy saving measures and package it together to get the most savings for the customer for the least amount of investment. There aren’t any companies out there that utilize the same approach.

Q: Briefly tell us the history of Total Energy Concepts.

A: Total Energy Concepts (TEC) is a national leader in Power Protection, Energy Management, Power Quality, Refrigeration and HVAC Optimization, Facility Grounding, and Lighting Solutions (LED) that help companies improve their bottom line by reducing expenses that drastically cut into company profits.

The company was founded in 2003 by engineer/ entrepreneur Damian Smith, and his late step-father, and primarily focused on TWO major factors – (1) to help businesses reduce expenses and (2) to improve their bottom line.

Q: How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted your company?

A: I think the economic impact has certainly helped, but the feeling is more like with the economic boom, nobody is taking the time to think about saving money when the real bottom line savings comes from reducing expenses. It takes a lot more sales to get the same dollar back to the bottom line.

10 | Chamber Connection

Q: What industry trends are taking place?

A: It seems like there is a jump in manufacturing, the food industry, and definitely an increase in the aggregate sector. You can relate these to the economic boom as these industry segments definitely are support pillars for a thriving economy.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Paul Deichert presenting Jim Mellon with a Certificate of Green Facility.

Q: Have there been any monumental changes in the industry that you’ve had to deal with?

A: Just the fact that it seems like nobody has the time to talk about saving money. It’s hard to get face to face when the time factor is on a short leash Q: What does the future of your business look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: Saving Energy was on a vertical trend before the economic crash of 2008. From there, it leveled off and was only being done by the businesses who really needed the dollars back on the bottom line. It has now since picked up, and if Congress restores the tax incentives back to the small businesses, things will definitely pick up to the pre-economic levels.

Q: Total Energy Concepts has been a member since 2007, why do you continue to renew each year?

A: As a local member of our community, it is important to me to help businesses save money. Companies are already spending the money for our system by paying their utility bills every month. Word of mouth is the best form of selling and if you keep the word out there, eventually there will be lots of contacts asking for a site evaluation to see what they can save.

Q: What should Chamber members know about your company that may assist them within theirs?

A: We have a pretty solid book of customers. It’s always good to have that cross connection option available as we have put many business owners in touch with other businesses who are looking to improve their bottom line. A lot of discussion lately has been on Emissions, and Environment. “One Kilowatt Hour of Energy Produced=1.37lbs of CO2 Emissions into the air.” We need to work together to Lower CO2 Emissions by lowering our Kilowatt Hours (KWH).

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Chamber Connection | 11

CHAMBER

Profile

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The Bismarck-Mandan

cordially invi

Laughter is the best medicine, and the Chamber staff is excited to experience that with you at this year’s 26th Annual Dinner! It’s scheduled for Thursday, January 14, 2016 at the Bismarck Event Center, Hall B. This year’s extravaganza will begin with a social hour for all at 5:30pm and dinner will be served at 6:30pm. Following our delicious dinner and program, we’ll be transporting our guests to a light hearted comedy parlor to enjoy the Upright Citizens Brigade Touring Company for an evening of improvisational and sketch comedy. This unscripted performance will leave you rolling off your seats!

Founded by Amy Poehler (SNL, Parks and Recreation), Upright Citizens Brigade Touring Company performs a night of provocative sketch comedy and absurd improv. A veritable incubation lab for comedy talent, the Upright Citizens Brigade Touring Company cast is hand-picked from the best improv comedians in the country and has previously featured such luminaries as Jack McBrayer (30 Rock), Horatio Sanz (SNL), Ed Helms (The Hangover, Cedar Rapids), Ellie Kemper (The Office, Bridesmaids), Rob Corddry (The Daily Show), Rob Riggle (SNL, The Daily Show), and Adam McKay (Anchorman, Funny or Die), among many others. Tickets are required for admittance and will need to be shown at check-in.

Tickets for members are $65 each and for general admission is $75. Tickets may be purchased online at bismarckmandan.com/ events or by calling the Chamber at 701-223-5660. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and a fantastic way to be recognized at one of our largest premier events.

Tickets will be available until Friday, January 8th, 2016. Tickets must be purchased before the event and will not be available at the door.

12 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

Chamber of Commerce

ites you to the

Platinum Sponsors:

Entertainment Sponsors:

Silver Sponsors:

KXMB CBS 12 Stinson Leonard Street LLP Tesoro Mandan Refinery

Gold Sponsors:

Reception Sponsors:

Photography Sponsor:

Environmental Services LTD First International Bank & Trust Schafer Financial Group Touchmark on West Century

Table Sponsors: Aetna Bank of North Dakota Bartlett & West Baymont Inn & Suites Bismarck Cancer Center Bismarck Event Center Bismarck State College BNI Coal, Ltd Brady Martz & Associates Capital City Construction Capital Credit Union

CHI St. Alexius Health City Air Mechanical Inc. CornerStone Bank Crowley Fleck PLLP Dakota Appraisal & Consulting Dickinson State University EAPC Architects Engineers Houston Engineering KLJ Farm Credit Services of Mandan KFYR TV

Kirkwood Bank & Trust Liberty Business Systems NISC Northern Plains Equipment Northwest Tire North Dakota Safety Council Odney Open Road Honda The Painters Schmidt Insurance Agency

Schwan Buick GMC Cadillac Starion Financial Ulteig Engineers, Inc. United Tribes Technical College University of Mary U.S. Bank Vaaler Insurance Vogel Law Firm Wells Fargo Bank Wenck Associates, Inc.

Chamber Connection | 13

CHAMBER

Profile

News

events

TIS THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY CHEER!

Last month we got to celebrate another festive year of fun times and holiday spirit at our 2015 Chamber Holiday Mixer and what a wonderful event it was!

More than 100 of our Chamber members displayed their businesses, products and services on Tuesday, December 8th at the Bismarck Event Center.

Pride Inc. generously worked with us to incorporate one last showcase for their “Celebration of Trees,” an event to give back to families in the community.

Thanks to all those tree sponsors, we were able to add some extra holiday cheer throughout the exhibit.

Nearly 1,500 guests attended the Holiday Mixer and wandered through the exhibit hall enjoying refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, door prize giveaways, local music provided by Tyler Ktytor and Brian Gray and lounging corners to casually mingle thanks to I-Keating Furniture.

14 | Chamber Connection

One of the greatest benefits to attending this event is the wonderful networking opportunities created for both the attendees and the businesses showcased.

Thanks to our Platinum Sponsor this wonderful event is made possible by, Schwan Buick GMC Cadillac. Also, thank you to all the other sponsors who made this event happen! Silver Sponsor: Bismarck Event Center; Bronze Sponsors: Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND, Cellular Communications, Epic Sports, Leingang Home Centers and Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation; Hors d’evours Sponsors: Baymont Inn & Suites and Lady J’s Catering and also to all of our Booth Sponsors!

This event is something our members and community always looks forward to. Thank you for making it a huge success!

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN Military/Emergency Readiness Day

If a train carrying 106 cars of crude oil collides with a stalled trailer rig carrying 46,000 pounds of steel at the South 12th Street railroad crossing, what would be the impact on downtown Bismarck? The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class examined that theoretical situation minute-by-minute during Military/Emergency Readiness Day on Nov. 18.

www.bismarckmandan.com

The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class views radiation detection equipment from the Civil Support Team at the North Dakota National Guard Fraine Barracks facility during Military/Emergency Readiness Day on Nov. 18.

The Department of Emergency Services exercise examined the local response and state federal support of the theoretical incident.

The leaders of the table top exercise had the class participants examine how their employers — public and private sector — might be involved in recovery from an incident. Speakers said that part of the government’s role is to clear the way for the private sector to return to normal. As one speaker said, “Normal is standing in line at a grocery store on a Saturday morning, even with only one check-out in operation.”

Arts & Leisure Day

Half of the day was dedicated to leisure and half to arts during Leadership Bismarck-Mandan on Dec. 2. On behalf of the leisure community, Cole Higlin of Mandan Parks & Recreation District, gave an update on Mandan’s growth and expansion of recreational facility. Higlin said the Universal Playground, a Leadership project, has been serving more than just the intended group; it has even been an attraction for adults with disabilities who never had the opportunity to play on such a similar playground themselves.

On behalf of the arts, Beth Klingenstein, executive director of North Dakota Council on the Arts, narrated the story of a fictional North Dakota town improved by a burgeoning arts community. The narrative was based on real-life arts partnerships throughout the state.

Klingenstein spoke of better quality of life and better retention of skilled workers and families as the benefits of a thriving arts community.

OUR MANY THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING: Presenting Sponsor:

Gold Sponsor: Program Sponsor: Binder Sponsor: Capital Trophy Military/Emergency Day Chairs: Dave Leingang - Exploring Leadership Soulutions Jennifer Jackson - UBL Design Group Arts & Leisure Day Chairs: Paula Redmann - Bismarck Parks & Recreation District Eileen Walsh - Dakota West Arts Council Breakfast/Lunch Sponsors: Exploring Leadership Soulutions (Military/Emergency Day) Bismarck Parks & Recreation District (Arts & Leisure Day)

Chamber Connection | 15

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CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, January 14, 2016 Bismarck Event Center - Hall B 315 S 5th St, Bismarck 5:30PM - 9:00PM $65.00 for Members $75.00 for Non-Members

Laughter is the best medicine, and the Chamber staff is excited to experience that with you at this year’s 26th Annual Dinner! It’s scheduled for Thursday, January 14, 2016 at the Bismarck Event Center, Hall B. This year’s extravaganza will begin with a social hour for all at 5:30pm and dinner will be served at 6:30pm. Following our delicious dinner and program, we’ll be transporting our guests to a light hearted comedy parlor to enjoy the Upright Citizens Brigade Touring Company for an evening of improvisational and sketch comedy. This unscripted performance will leave you rolling off your seats!

The evening will be full of fun, networking, awards, recognition and comedy that all will enjoy! This is a wonderful night for members to showcase their company and invite family, friends, co-works and VIP clients to attend. To honor the 1940s we encourage 1940s dress code (optional). Women find your best dresses and feminine hats. Gentleman bust out your bow ties and fedoras; we are bringing back the 40s!

Tickets are required for admittance and will need to be shown at check-in. Tickets for members are $65 each and for general admission is $75. Come and enjoy the evening with nearly 1,000 fellow Chamber members. You don’t want to miss this improv line-up!

Tickets may be purchased online at bismarckmandan. com/events or by calling the Chamber at 701-2235660. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and a fantastic way to be recognized at one of our largest premier events.

Tickets will be available until Friday, January 8th, 2016.

Tickets must be purchased before the event and will not be available at the door.

16 | Chamber Connection

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: UNIVERSITY OF MARY Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, January 21, 2016 University of Mary Butler Center 505 S 7th Street, Bismarck 4:30PM - 6:30PM Free to Attend

It’s the New Year and with that we start up another year of business after hours! Don’t miss this month’s Membership Mixer at the University of Mary Butler Center on Thursday, January 21st from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Join fellow Chamber members for some refreshments, hors d’oeuvres and mingling.

Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend, so bring your co-workers and have some fun.

RSVP’s can be done online at bismarckmandan.com/ events or by calling Amanda at 701-223-5660.

www.bismarckmandan.com

e!

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LUNCH & LEARN PRESENTED BY SR. KATHLEEN ATKINSON

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Tuesday, January 26, 2015 Gary Tharaldson School of Business, Rm 212 7500 University Drive, Bismarck 11:30AM - 1:00PM Free to Attend

Don’t miss this month’s awesome speaker Sr. Kathleen Atkinson! She is a Benedictine Sister from the Annunciation Monastery in Bismarck. Nationally recognized as a leader in hunger and homelessness education, she has developed service learning experiences for all age groups and led service teams to a variety of foreign and United States locations. A 1977 elementary education graduate of University of Mary, Atkinson holds an MA in Theology from St John’s University and a Doctorate in Ministry from the St Paul Seminary School of Divinity, University of St Thomas.

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: KLJ

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, February 25, 2016 KLJ 4585 Coleman Street, Bismarck 4:30PM - 6:30PM Free to Attend

Join us for next month’s membership mixer hosted by KLJ on Thursday, February 25th from 4:30pm – 6:30pm.

This is a wonderful way to meet other members within the business community all while enjoying refreshments and hors d’oeuvres in a beautiful office!

Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend. Please consider joining us and bring along colleagues as you are all members! You can RSVP by calling Amanda at 701-223-5660 or online at bismarckmandan.com/ events.

Seating is limited, RSVP online at www.universofmary. edu/luncheon.

Extraordinary Care

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STARION EMPLOYEES RAISE $1,510 FOR TOYS FOR TOTS

Kordel Wolfe, Starion business banking officer, presents a check to Michelle Charvat of Toys for Tots.

receiving gifts through Toys for Tots.

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The month of November was a little hairy at Starion Financial. Twelve men at branches in Bismarck and seven in Mandan competed for bragging rights during No Shave November, a.k.a.

“Noshember.” But the real winners were the children

A total of $1,510 was raised through entry fees, paid votes for favorite beard and a match from the bank.

Starion banker Kordel Wolfe, still sporting his Noshember beard, presented the donation to Michelle Charvat with Toys for Tots.

Charvat said that in 2014 Toys for Tots helped nearly 3,200 kids and this year it’s already been more than 4,000. “For some kids, the Toys for Tots gifts are the only ones they receive,” said Charvat. “This year we’ve partnered with agencies like Lutheran Social Services, AID Inc., Abused Adult Resource Center and Community Action so they can get food and other services in addition to toys.”

DO YOU KNOW A 5-YEAR OLD?!

Chances are that 5-year-old is in kindergarten or should be registering for fall classes. Bismarck Public Schools starts registration on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 for children who are 5 years old on or before July 31.

Go to www.bismarckschools.org under the red registration tab on the left, then the kindergarten registration link on the left. Parents must download all of the information, fill out the forms, and gather the necessary documents like birth certificates and proof of residence before making an appointment to register. You can even make your appointment online!

Kindergarten registration appointments are scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The kindergarten registration deadline is Thursday, March 31 and kindergarten open houses are held in late April and early May. In addition, Friday, March 11 is the deadline for new transfer requests for students entering grades K-5 this fall who want to attend a Bismarck Public School outside of their attendance area. Transfer request forms for elementary and secondary students are available online at www.bismarckschools.org under the same red tab.

BECEP parents do not need to register their child for kindergarten at Hughes. Kindergarten registration for currently enrolled BECEP students will start January 15, Fridays only by appointment. Call 323-4401 or e-mail becep_secretary@bismarckschools.org to set up an appointment or register during Parent Teacher Conferences at BECEP on February 25 or March 3.

For All Your Business Banking Needs Dave Mason, President 1533 N 12th St • Bismarck, ND dmason@firstintlbank.com

701-751-8500 0188_12-15

www.firstintlbank.com 18 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

FOOD CO-OP HOLDS GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY, BEGINS RENOVATIONS

Leaders of the BisMan Community Food Coop announced at their groundbreaking ceremony that renovations have started at 711 E Sweet Avenue (formerly Snoopers Tons of Fun) in Bismarck.

The BisMan Community Food Co-op announced plans for renovations at their groundbreaking ceremony.

“This is a big day for our membership and everyone that has worked hard over the past four years to make this store a reality,” Outreach Coordinator Heidi Demars said. “We have started developing our merchandising plan and working with local producers to offer a wide variety of natural, organic and locally grown products for our community. Soon we can begin hiring a management team,” said General Manager, Randy Joersz.

Paul Breiner with Matrix Design in Bismarck and Minneapolis-based Gorski and Associates have developed the physical design and layout of the new food co-op store. “We will be the only locally-owned grocery store in the area and when complete, will be able to offer a full-scale grocery store including a deli, meat department, coffee/juice bar, produce, dairy and community space for cooking classes,” said Breiner.

The co-op’s board of directors announced it now has over 1,400 member-owners and is planning for continued growth. “People want to be a part of this exciting start-up and as members, they will have a voice in the types of food and products the co-op will carry.

Membership gives people that voice, in addition to the in-store benefits and discounts,” said Joersz.

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NORTH DAKOTA GUARDSMEN TO WELCOME NEW ADJUTANT GENERAL After being announced in October as North Dakota’s next adjutant general by North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple, Brig. Gen. Alan Dohrmann formally took command of the nearly 4,100 Soldiers and Airmen of the North Dakota National Guard.

Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, the current adjutant general, relinquished his duties as the organization’s leader during a change of command ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Raymond J. Bohn Armory in Bismarck.

In addition to the change of command, a promotion ceremony was held for Dohrmann, who will be promoted to the rank of major general. Gen. Frank Grass, chief of the National Guard Bureau, administered the oath of office during the event.

Dohrmann began his military service in 1983, serving seven years was active-duty Army on assignments in Germany and Japan. He joined the North Dakota National Guard in 1991, working in various roles before being named deputy adjutant general in 2007.

In 2009, he deployed as part of Kosovo Forces 12, serving as the commanding general of Multinational Task Force - East. In Kosovo, he commanded more than 2,000 military members from the United States, as well as seven other counties. Upon his return in 2010, he resumed his duties as deputy adjutant general. In this role, he has served as second in command of the North Dakota National Guard.

As adjutant general, Dohrmann also will serve as the director of the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, which is comprised of the Division of Homeland Security and the Division of State Radio Communications.

Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk

Brig. Gen. Alan Dohrmann

Following the change of command ceremony, Sprynczynatyk was honored during a retirement ceremony for his more than 43 years of service in the North Dakota National Guard.

Since being appointed as adjutant general in August 2006, he has overseen the deployments of nearly 2,100 Soldiers and Airmen in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle. He also has commanded the organization during multiple domestic operations, including the Guard’s support to the citizens of North Dakota during the statewide flood emergencies of 2009 and 2011.

Prior to his appointment as adjutant general, Sprynczynatyk had served for five years as the director of the North Dakota Department of Transportation. He also served more than 28 years with the State Water Commission, with 11 years as state engineer.

20 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

THREE NORTH DAKOTA WOMEN RECEIVE TOP HONORS FROM THE WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER

Center for Technology & Business (CTB) held their fourth annual Women’s Business Summit November 8-9 in Bismarck. The event brought together women from across the state for a unique networking and professional development opportunity designed to strengthen the state of women owned businesses in North Dakota.

At the luncheon on Monday, three of the attendees were surprised with top honors from CTB.

Dorothy Lick, SVP of Education for the North Dakota Bankers Association was recognized with the 2015 CTB Outstanding Woman in Business Award. This award is meant to celebrate a woman who has truly excelled, not only in her professional life, but as a leader and role model in the community. Dorothy’s professional accomplishments are impressive, with a commitment to service and excellence that proves extraordinary leadership, she has had a huge positive impact on the ND banking community over the last 15 years. Her genuine spirit for giving and contagious passion for finding solutions is also seen all across the community.

She is chairperson of the Women’s Leadership Circle (WLC) of the Missouri Slope Areawide United Way; a volunteer for the WLC Adopt a Classroom program; as well as a champion for the Backpack Program, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Little Black Dress Campaign, North Dakota Jump$tart Coalition, North Dakota Leadership Seminar, and more. CTB is proud to have her as a 2013 graduate of the CTB Women’s Leadership Program and excited to recognize her with this honor.

Lorie Pope, co-owner of Nexus Innovations was recognized with the 2015 CTB Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This exclusive award is designated to the owner of a North Dakota Certified Woman Owned Business who has demonstrated staying power, innovativeness, forward thinking and contributions to her community. Nexus Innovations opened its first office in 2000 in Bismarck, with a goal of creating a high level strategic consulting and IT company that provided leadership and delivered success. In 2008 they opened a second office in Fargo in order to continue empowering clients and helping them be more effective. Nexus Innovations has emerged as one of the leading strategic IT consulting firms in the region and, beyond delivering an outstanding product, they contribute that success to having a culture of trust and open communication with both their internal team and

the clients they serve. In 2014 and 2015, Nexus was selected for the Top 25 Small Businesses Best Places to Work award by Prairie Business Magazine. In addition to her work at Nexus, Lorie is a certified John Maxwell Team member and certified executive/leadership coach.

She helps leaders create the long-term results they want in their business and personal life and is passionate about providing organizational consulting on ways to create a strong culture of influence to achieve strategic success.

Former first lady, Grace Link, was selected as the 2015 CTB Woman of Honor. Once described as a “Living Treasure of North Dakota,” she was born and raised near Cartwright and at 15, she attended a Farmers Union monthly dance where she met 19-year-old Arthur Link. Five years later, in 1939, they were married. The Links had five sons and one daughter that were raised on their farm in Alexander where Grace was heavily involved as a 4-H leader. Grace remained a long time supporter of the North Dakota 4-H Foundation and the North Dakota Extension program and, together with Art, was named a 2004 inductee into the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame.

Grace was very involved in the decision-making process throughout her husband’s political career, especially as he served as governor from 1972-1981. She continues to play an active role in many organizations and political functions, too numerous to count, including most recently as Chairperson of Erin Hill-Oban’s campaign for state senate. Grace has remained active across North Dakota as an advocate, volunteer, community leader and philanthropist. The Art and Grace Link Endowment provides long term support to the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame and Grace still sits on the Society for the Preservation of the Former Governors’ Mansion where she has donated countless hours to its preservation and improvement. In 2012 she was presented with the Enduring Legacy Award by the State Historical Society of North Dakota for her contributions to the origination of the North Dakota Heritage Center and later its expansion. Her contributions across the state are felt by many but she still humbly claims that she is “just a mother doing her job.”

This is the fourth year that CTB has selected a Woman of Honor.

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MANDAN PARK DISTRICT SECURES 2ND ANNUAL SLIDE THE CITY The Mandan Park District has committed to hosting the 2nd Annual Slide the City in Mandan, ND on August 27, 2016 from 9am – 7pm. This event will take place again on Sunset Drive adjacent to Mandan High School.

Slide the City is a family-friendly 1,000 foot slip-andslide water party event. Mandan Park District will seek volunteers to help run the event, along with additional support from sponsors. To add to the event atmosphere, food and craft vendors will be onsite.

This is a one day event open to the public. Ticket rates vary according to the number of times you would like to go down the slide and when you purchase your tickets. Tickets vary from $15 to $70 per ticket. Tickets and rates are available at www.slidethecity.com. Onsite registration will be located in the north east high school parking lot. Single-slide tickets will be available for purchase the day of the event if the event is not sold out. Substantial parking will be available in the school parking lots and off street parking in the adjacent neighborhoods.

The Mandan Park Board approved pursuing hosting the event again in 2016 during the Monday, November 9, 2015 meeting. On Tuesday, November 17, 2015 the City of Mandan approved street closures and water use for the event. The event will require a portion of Sunset Drive to be shut down to vehicle traffic, allowing participants safe access to the slide.

Because safety is our number one priority, we have established standards and procedures to ensure a safe ride for the sliders. All patrons must sign a waiver, riders must be 46 inches tall and five years old to ride, and all participants are required to use a tube. An EMT and a paramedic will be on-site all day staffing an ambulance in case of an emergency.

SANFORD, SAN DIEGO ZOO CREATE NEW TELEVISION CHANNEL Thanks to a new partnership, patients spending time at Sanford Medical Centers in Bismarck or Fargo can easily take a trip to the San Diego Zoo through a new television channel.

San Diego Zoo Kids, a television channel highlighting the exotic, endangered and mystical animals of San Diego Zoo Global, will be featured at both locations.

San Diego Zoo Kids is made possible by a gift from businessman and philanthropist Denny Sanford.

The programming features a variety of animals from San Diego Zoo Global, plus footage from the Zoo’s popular Panda Cam, fun and educational pieces about a variety of animals and up-close video encounters of popular animals with the Zoo’s national spokesperson, Rick Schwartz.

22 | Chamber Connection

The exclusive San Diego Zoo Kids channel is currently a part of 16 hospitals across the nation.

www.bismarckmandan.com

AGENCY MABU ACQUIRES TODAYMADE

Marketing & Advertising Business Unlimited, Inc. (dba Agency MABU), announced it has signed an agreement to acquire Todaymade LLC, a premier provider of web development and marketing services.

“This acquisition brings together the talents and resources of two industry-leading companies,” said MABU’s President Mike Mabin. “The combined operations will be provided under MABU’s Interactive Media Division.”

Agency MABU has been providing strategic marketing solutions for nearly 15 years to an ever-growing base of nationwide clients representing over 500 business enterprises, government agencies and Native American entities. MABU’s team includes award-winning communications consultants, web programmers, creative writers, graphic designers, internet marketers and multimedia professionals with offices in Bismarck, North Dakota, and Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Agency MABU’s acquisition of Todaymade includes operational and intellectual assets such as the trade name, corporate website, a proprietary content management system called TodayCMS, and over 50 hosted websites serving organizations, both large and small, throughout the region. The acquisition does not include a transfer of any employees from Todaymade to MABU.

Following the acquisition, the Todaymade team will move to full-time work at CoSchedule – a marketing software company that Todaymade originally started in 2013. Since launch, CoSchedule has grown to include more than 5,000 customers in more than 80 different countries. This transfer of Todaymade employees to CoSchedule will bring the CoSchedule team to nearly 30 team members.

“At Todaymade, we’ve always believed in creating better experiences for our clients and better web products that help them grow their business,” said Todaymade Co-Founder Garrett Moon. “As our team moves on to a new chapter at CoSchedule, we are excited to share that our clients and friends will continue in great hands with Agency MABU.” The transition of services to Agency MABU will be seamless for Todaymade’s clients. Their websites and e-mail services will continue to be hosted and supported by Agency MABU without interruption.

“This acquisition is a win-win for both organizations,” said Mabin. “It allows Todaymade’s team to focus on building their CoSchedule product, while it allows MABU to build upon its strength of providing leadingedge web development and strategic marketing solutions.”

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CHI ST. ALEXIUS HEALTH EARNS RECOGNITION FROM THE JOINT COMMISSION CHI St. Alexius Health announced that it has been recognized as a 2014 Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in the United States. CHI St. Alexius Health was recognized as part of The Joint Commission’s 2015 annual report “America’s Hospitals: Improving Quality and Safety,” for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care, stroke and perinatal care. CHI St. Alexius Health is the only hospital in Bismarck and one of only 1,043 hospitals out of more than 3,300 eligible hospitals in the United States to achieve the 2014 Top Performer distinction.

“We understand what matters most to patients at CHI St. Alexius Health is the quality and safety of the care they receive. That is why improving positive patient outcomes through evidence-based care processes is a top priority,” said CHI St. Alexius Health CEO Kurt Schley. “CHI St. Alexius Health is proud to be named a Top Performer as it recognizes the knowledge, teamwork and dedication of our entire clinical team.”

To be a 2014 Top Performer, hospitals had to meet three performance criteria based on 2014 accountability measure data, including: • Achieve cumulative performance of 95 percent or above across all reported accountability measures; • Achieve performance of 95 percent or above on each and every reported accountability measure with at least 30 denominator cases; and • Have at least one core measure set that had a composite rate of 95 percent or above, and within that measure set, achieve a performance rate of 95 percent or above on all applicable individual accountability measures.

According to CHI St. Alexius Health’s Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Shiraz Hyder, MD, being named a Top Performer serves as acknowledgment of CHI St. Alexius Health’s ongoing commitment to provide high quality care in the safest health care environment possible. “We are proud of our physicians, nurses and allied health team members who provide the highest quality of care every day, every time.”

“Delivering the right treatment in the right way at the right time is a cornerstone of high-quality health care. I commend the efforts of CHI St. Alexius Health for their excellent performance on the use of evidence-based interventions,” said Mark R. Chassin, MD, FACP, MPP, MPH, president and CEO, The Joint Commission.

Make plans to attend the 3rd annual Masks in the Moonlight Charity Ball!

This exciting event features an evening of mystery, intrigue, and fun. Enjoy dinner, dancing, a live and silent auction and more. All proceeds benefit the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.

For ticket information, contact the Bismarck Cancer Center at 701-222-6119.

FE BR UAR Y 6 , 2 016 S I XT EEN 03 MAIN EVENTS 24 | Chamber Connection

C H A RI T Y

B A L L

B ISM A R C K C A N C E R C E N TE R F OUND AT ION

BMDA OFFERS JOB SHADOW WEEK

The Bismarck-Mandan Development Association hopes you will consider offering job shadowing opportunities for college and high school students during Job Shadow Week set for February 8 – 12, 2016.

Job Shadow Week will offer students and businesses an opportunity to interact so the students can learn what the business does and what kind of positions the business has to offer.

Job shadowing opportunities should be for positions that require 1-, 2-, or 4-year degrees, diplomas, or certificate.s Each participating business chooses which day(s) and time(s) that week it would offer job shadowing opportunities for students.

The business can structure the job shadowing experience in the way that works best for that business . . . match one student with one employee, have one employee host a small group of students, offer a job shadow for one occupation in the business or as many occupations it wants students to explore and learn about. Job shadowing opportunities will be for 2- and 4-hour time periods.

The 2- and 4- hour time periods will be set up as follows: 8:00am – 10:00am 10:00am – 12:00pm 1:00pm – 3:00pm 3:00pm – 5:00pm 8:00am – 12:00pm 1:00pm – 5:00pm Employer registration will begin Monday, December 14th and will close on Friday, January 8th. Student registration will run from January 18th through February 2nd. A final list of students registered will be forwarded to participating businesses by Thursday, February 4th.

If you have any questions at this time, please don’t hesitate to contact BMDA

www.bismarckmandan.com

NDCA ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF BOARD VICE CHAIRMAN

The North Dakota Council on the Arts is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Lana Schlecht of Ellendale as Vice Chairman of its Board. Schlecht has been serving on NDCA’s board of directors since August 2012.

Dr. Lana Schlecht was an art major at UND before veering off into dentistry. Lana and her husband, Warren, farmed near Gackle for a time until Lana graduated from dental school. She is a graduate of CM Russell High School in Great Falls, Montana, Jamestown College and University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Lana has been active in many arts activities through life.

She has taught various community classes in weaving, water color and embroidery and had a design chosen

by Governor and Mrs. Link for the Governor’s residence dining chairs. She has had her paintings displayed in the Capitol building twice. She currently serves as Vice-president of the Ellendale Area Arts Council. The council sponsors community events, concerts, brings in art shows and children’s theater.

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PUBLIC FORUMS FOR SCHOOL SPACE SOLUTIONS

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Bismarck is still growing. The school population jumped by over 370 students this year, compared with last!

Sources confirm we continue to get new residents—many of whom are being employed in the medical and service industries in the Capital City.

To that end, the Bismarck School Board put together a committee of parents, school staff and business leaders to look at enrollment trends in Bismarck Public Schools and suggest strategies to deal with the continued growth and the school house capacity challenges caused by growth.

The committee’s proposals will be open for vetting at public forums set for 6:30-8 pm on Wednesday, January 27 at Simle Middle School, and Thursday, January 28 at Horizon Middle School. The presentations will be similar each night and the public is invited to attend and give the committee input.

Then in February, the 75-member Facility Planning Committee will refine the proposed solutions before presenting them to the School Board.

Planning documents are posted at bismarckschools.org.

Technology

Open HOuse Come learn about the newest teChnologies!

We are hosting an open house at our newly remodeled office to keep you informed of the latest technologies to help you be more productive.

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FIRST INTERNATIONAL BANK SUPPORTS AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT First International Bank and Trust contributed $100,000 to the state’s Housing Incentive Fund (HIF) in October to support the development of affordable housing in Bismarck.

“We are thrilled to support the North Dakota Housing Incentive Fund with our contribution. First International Bank & Trust is passionate about giving back to the communities in which we live and work. We are committed to our communities, as well as the great state of North Dakota,” says David Mason, Bismarck Market President of First International Bank & Trust.

First International directed the contribution to FiveSouth, a residential and retail development planned for downtown Bismarck. Ninety-four units in the development will be set-aside for income-qualified households including 33 units specifically for essential service workers – law enforcement, education and medical facility staff and local and state government employees.

“To have a vibrant and healthy community, we need to have housing that is affordable,” said Jolene Kline, North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) executive director. “The Housing Incentive Fund is all about creating opportunities for our communities to flourish.”

Capitalized by contributions from state taxpayers, HIF provides developers of affordable rental housing with low-cost financing if they agree to set-aside units for essential service workers and low- to moderate-income households. NDHFA administers the program.

First International’s HIF contribution supports a $3 million conditional commitment NDHFA awarded to the FiveSouth project in July. The total cost of developing FiveSouth’s affordable housing is estimated to be more than $17 million.

Since the HIF program began in 2011, First International has been a consistent supporter, contributing $870,000 altogether to support developments statewide.

www.bismarckmandan.com

NORTH DAKOTA STUDENTS, TEACHERS TO BENEFIT FROM NATIONAL MATH + SCIENCE INITIATIVE’S COLLEGE READINESS PROGRAM The National Math and Science Initiative’s (NMSI) College Readiness Program (CRP) today announced its expansion into North Dakota schools with an investment of up to $13 million from ExxonMobil, on behalf of XTO Energy Inc. CRP empowers school communities to improve participation and success in rigorous coursework to better prepare students for college and the STEM-intensive careers of the 21st century. NMSI will partner with districts across the state over the next several years to enhance teacher effectiveness and student performance.

“Supporting student achievement and ensuring our young people are equipped with the skills and resources to excel as tomorrow’s leaders are key to North Dakota’s continued success,” said Governor Jack Dalrymple. “Partnerships like this one, between business, education and community leaders, are essential to helping students reach their full potential and preparing them for the careers and opportunities of the future.”

CRP has proven to dramatically increase the number of students taking and earning qualifying scores on Advanced Placement® (AP) exams, while expanding access to challenging coursework. In just one year, NMSI’s program boosts the number of AP® qualifying scores in math, science and English in partner schools by ten times the national average and produces outstanding gains among female and minority students traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields. To date, CRP has expanded to nearly 800 schools across 30 states from coast to coast.

CRP’s comprehensive model provides extensive training for teachers, more time on task for students and equipment and supplies to support AP coursework.

Greg Pulliam, Public and Government Affairs Manager for the Western Division of XTO Energy, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, noted that the success of North Dakota’s industries depends on the quality, ingenuity and diversity of its workforce: “We are all well aware that education is the fundamental building block for individual opportunity and economic growth, and we must equip young people with the knowledge and skills – particularly in math and science, which are drivers of 21st century jobs.”

Governor Dalrymple, local business and civic leaders, higher education representatives and educators gathered for a press conference applauding the announcement of this new partnership with the state.

Hosted by the Greater North Dakota Chamber at Bismarck’s Legacy High School, the event recognized the hard work of local educators and highlighted the need for community leaders to raise matching funds to reach every high school in the state in future years.

NMSI Chief Academic Officer Gregg Fleisher emphasized that CRP is an effective solution that helps close achievement gaps and prepares young people for the demands of college-level work and a rapidly changing workforce. “Without a doubt, AP is one of the most powerful tools we can use to prepare students for college,” he said. About the expansion of CRP in North Dakota, he added, “There is an unmatched dedication to community in the state. It’s one of the reasons North Dakota is an ideal partner for NMSI.” The investment and partnership with NMSI will equip North Dakota school communities with the resources and support they need to succeed.

Chamber Connection | 27

COMMUNITY

NEWS

ASK-A-PRO

Perks

Ask a Pro with

DR. DUFAN at

with

JOEL BLANCHARD, MD at

with

CHAD MOLDENHAUER at

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

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

PO Box 7188, Bismarck, ND 58507 • 701-220-1821

Q: WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS TO RADIATION THERAPY? A: The side effects of radiotherapy are

Q: HOW WILL UPCOMING FMCSAMANDATED CHANGES TO THE DOT EXAM AFFECT MY COMPANY AND EMPLOYEES? A: The FMSCA has proposed the

Q: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TWINHOMES, TOWNHOMES AND CONDOS? A: The distinctions between these

dependent upon the part of the body treated, and also the dose required to treat the tumor. Some common effects are fatigue and skin changes. For example, treatment of the breast can result in skin dryness and a “sunburn-like” reaction, while treatment of the prostate will not result in any skin change but may result in irritation of the rectum or bladder. These reactions typically occur after several weeks of treatment and heal within a few weeks or months after treatment completion.

28 | Chamber Connection

multi-family housing options can often be confusing because the terms are following changes to the existing DOT sometimes used interchangeably. form as of Dec. 15, 2015. Medical Twinhomes are typically two units built examiners (ME) will be required to use on separate lots with private entrances the new medical examiner’s report (MER) but which share a common party wall. form MCSA-5875, medical examination Townhomes are set up similarly but have certificate (MEC) form MCSA-5876, and more than two units joined and condos CMV driver medical examination results typically have a common entrance and form MCSA-5850. share a single lot often with one housing What this means for your employees: unit set above or below another.

1. The ME would be required to give At a minimum multi-family homes share qualified drivers a copy of the MCSAa party wall which separates the homes.

5876 form to provide to their employers Common ownership may also include and government enforcement officials. the exterior walls and the outside of the 2. A new status will be added to the units, the fixtures and attachments inside exam: Determination pending. This the units, the status allows the ME up to 45 days to land and landscaping or the utilities to determine qualification. Drivers with this the units. When considering purchasing status may continue to operate a CMV if a multi-family home it is important they have a valid MEC. to gather this information as well as 3. The ME or staff will have to record details regarding the construction of what type of government-issued photo the dividers between the units because ID was used to verify the driver’s identity while all must meet fire code some wall (e.g. CDL, driver’s license, passport). systems don’t fully eliminate sound 4. Drivers will be required to have a new transfer between the units. If an owner’s association is provided for the unit it examination when their MEC expires, is important to find out the services regardless of its length. supplied by the association as well as the fees it charges. Finally, you may want to What this means for your company: research the financing options available 1. A full DOT examination and charge prior to making an offer because will be required once your driver’s MEC they may vary based on how the land expires, even for short-term certificates. ownership is divided.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Ask a Pro with

PAT BRUNELLE with

with

&

at

at

at

EDWARD SARGEANT

1003 Gateway Ave, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-250-0728

CHRIS SIEVERT

1355 Airport Road, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-557-3698

SHELBY D, PHARMD

3101 North 11th Street Bismarck, ND 58503 701-224-9521

Q: HOW DO I COMPARE Q: I USE GOOGLE’S “STREET Q: WHAT IS FOLIC ACID AND CONSTRUCTION BIDS APPLES VIEW” TO VISUALIZE WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR TO APPLES? BUILDING LOCATIONS. IS MANY PEOPLE? THERE SOMETHING SIMILAR A: You’ve heard the advice, “Get multiple A: Folic acid is the synthetic form FOR PANORAMIC VIEWS OF bids.” However in order to accurately of folate, a B vitamin important for THE INSIDE OF BUILDINGS AS compare, you must be looking at the making new healthy cells. Folate is same scope, product, specifications, found naturally in foods such as dark WELL? materials, and quality of work. Even green leafy vegetables, fruits, and A: In 2007, Google released “Street within specialty trades, contractors are meats, whereas folic acid is available View” as a new feature displaying panoramic views from positions along many streets in cities and rural areas worldwide. Now it’s typical for a Google search to present an actual image of the exterior of a business.

What most people don’t know is that there’s also an option for an interior version. You can give potential clients a preview or a virtual tour of your facility prior to an in-person visit. A photographer can take images using different resolutions, different shooting angles and even different vantage points of a space; then a graphic artist can stitch them together for a 360 degree photo sphere. The visitor is able to take a virtual tour of a place before ever visiting. This technology could be used to help guests navigate tourism attractions, hotels, and museums, as well as hospitals, event centers, real estate sales, or really any business that wants to showcase their space or work area.

diverse in their quality, experience, materials and methods. Comparing bids apples to apples is nearly impossible, and leaves much to the imagination.

Rather, the goal should be to achieve a complete understanding of what work will be produced within the scope of each bid.

The lowest bid is not necessarily the best bid. In fact, it may be a red flag that indicates inferior materials, a misunderstanding, or corner-cutting on quality or code compliance. In some instances you may be presented with a low bid only to be surprised later with expensive change orders for extras or upgrades. Good contractors are respectful of your expectations and seek to understand that information up front.

In the best scenario, a system is set in place for design and estimating that work hand in hand. A preliminary budget is set early, and the design is “married” to the budget as it develops. Final bids are A 360 degree virtual tour enables viewers based on a detailed design that most to scan the entire scene from any angle accurately reflects the owner’s intentions. they choose by panning and zooming specific areas. It lets the viewer really get to see and understand the space.

as a supplement and has been added to many foods such as cereals, breads, and pastas. While it is advised that all ages get a certain amount of folic acid from foods or supplements daily, it is extremely important that women of childbearing age get the recommended amount of this vitamin. When a woman gets an adequate amount of folic acid before and during pregnancy, it helps prevent birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine. The recommended daily amount of folic acid for women who can become pregnant or are pregnant is 400-800 micrograms (mcg) per day or more if there is a history of birth defects of the brain or spine. The recommended amount for children under 14 years varies by age, and it is suggested that all other individuals age 14 and older get 400 mcg per day, which can be found in most multivitamins. Additionally, some people may take folic acid at higher doses in order to prevent side effects of other medications or to help treat conditions such as anemia.

Chamber Connection | 29

COMMUNITY

ASK-A-PRO

NEWS

CHAMBER Perks

PERKS

Choice Financial Promotes Grotte

Brooks Grotte was recently promoted to Assistant Vice President – Credit at the bank’s Bismarck location.

Grotte joined Choice Financial as a Credit Analyst in the Grand Forks market in September Brooks Grotte 2014. He has more than nine Sanford Health years experience in credit underwriting. Grotte is a graduate of the University Welcomes Physician of North Dakota, Grand Forks, N.D., with majors in Ayesha Mughal, MD, family Business Administration in Financial Management, medicine, recently joined Sanford Seventh & Thayer Clinic, Banking and Finance Economics. located at 225 N. Seventh St., Bismarck. Mughal graduated Record Keepers Achieves NAID Ayesha Mughal, MD from Mayo Hospital in LaHore, Certification Pakistan and completed her Record Keepers’ Bismarck operation has achieved residency from UND Center for Family Medicine in AAA Certification status with the National Association Bismarck. She is board certified in family medicine by for Information Destruction for the seventh the American Board of Family Medicine. consecutive year. To achieve this status, a company

Dolan Takes on Role as CFO

Strege Joins Cornerstone Bank as VP of Business Banking

must undergo an audit of the security measures of its facility, employee screening and training, insurance coverage, transport vehicles and internal processes and procedures. Record Keepers’ certification is for paper records destruction, computer hard drive destruction, non-paper media destruction, and records storage. They are currently the only company in North Dakota to have custodial certification for records storage.

The North Dakota University System has filled a position that was opened after a departmental reorganization took place earlier this month.

Tammy Dolan has taken on responsibilities as the Tammy Dolan system’s Chief Financial Officer beginning Nov. 2, 2015. The position will fill the need for financial administration after former Vice Chancellor Laura Glatt took a position

out of state earlier this month.

Dolan previously served as the management and fiscal analyst at the Office of Management and Budget. She has 25 years of experience in state Dan Falconer government, including working to help shape the higher education funding formula

Falconer Joins KK BOLD

Cornerstone Bank is pleased to announce that Kevin Strege has joined Cornerstone Bank as Kevin Strege a VP of Business Banking, with responsibilities in the Watford City, New Town, and Bismarck markets. Strege has 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, 26 of that in the Bismarck-Mandan community.

Strege currently serves as the Chair of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce Local Issues Committee and is on the Bismarck-Mandan Development Association Exec Committee. He has held various other community leadership positions over the years, including the Missouri Valley Family YMCA and Bismarck Vision Fund.

Credit Collections Bureau Announcements

Credit Collections Bureau announces that Matt Ray has been named collector of the month for October 2015.

Kann Joins Sanford Health as AirMed Outreach Coordinator

Dan Falconer has joined KK BOLD advertising agency in Bismarck. As a web developer, Ashley Kann Falconer helps KK BOLD clients maximize their online potential. resources.

A Bismarck native, he has 15 years of experience in web development and system administration.

30 | Chamber Connection

Sanford Health welcomes Ashley Kann as the outreach coordinator of Sanford AirMed. Located in Bismarck, Kann develops and maintains relationships with stakeholders and educates them to ensure the safe and appropriate utilization of air medical

www.bismarckmandan.com Deneault Earns Dale Carnegie Award

Amanda Deneault has won the highest award for achievement for her participation in the

Dale Carnegie Course that she completed in Bismarck, ND. The recipient for the award is voted Kacie Beattie on by class members upon

Amanda Deneault completion of the course series.

The criteria for this award is to exemplify the principles of Dale Carnegie training throughout the course, demonstrate significant and professional development and demonstrate careful preparation. Amanda is the Office Manager of Berg’s Towing & Crane Service. Additional congratulations go to the following graduates as well: Reese Boehm, Kelly Carlson Molly Brooks, Jon French, Chad Haff, Cody Nelson, Brian Nybakken, Ashley Ross, Stephanie Rud, Chelsey Thronson, and Carrie Wagner.

Starion Financial Hires, Promotes in Mandan

Starion Financial has promoted and hired several individuals at the Mandan branch.

Kacie Beattie has been promoted to operations specialist II. Beattie joined Starion in August 2011 as a teller, was promoted to teller lead in 2013 and promoted to administrative assistant in 2014. As an operations specialist, Beattie provides support to retail and business bankers including mailings, preparing presentations, and creating and providing reports.

Kelly Carlson and Monte Nexus Innovations Glasser are operations Welcomes Cherney specialists I. They work with and Kalvoda deposit quality control, Jason Cherney has joined handle supply orders and Monte Glasser Nexus Innovations at the provide internal support Bismarck branch as a Senior for bankers. Carlson joined Analyst and Project Manager.

Jason Cherney Starion in October 2013 as Originally from Courtenay, a teller and was recognized North Dakota, Jason graduated at the 2015 Starion Awards from North Dakota State for the completing the most University with his Bachelor’s transactions within a calendar in Management Information year. Glasser attended Bismarck Systems. He has been working State College and brings more Stephanie Gaugler in the technology field for than 15 years of experience ten years with experience working in the areas of in application support, Brian Kalvoda customer service, accounts business analysis, and project receivable and production. management. Most recently,

Stephanie Gaugler has been Jason received his project management certification promoted to loan operations as a PMP in July. specialist II. She joined Starion Brian Kalvoda has joined Nexus Innovations Financial as a teller in 2007 in the Bismarck branch as an intern. During his Lisa Hartje and the loan operations team internship, Brian traveled to Louisville, KY to compete in 2013. In her new position, in the National SkillsUSA Computer Programming Gaugler is responsible for competition. He took 8th place out of 26 entries in processing loan information, the high school division. He attends BSC and will producing compliance complete his degree in Instrumentation and Control documentation and conducting Panel in May 2016 after which he will study for his quality control checks. engineering degree.

Lisa Hartje has been promoted to internal auditor. She joined Bianco Realty Sales Awards Jona Ziemann Starion as an operations Bianco Realty has named Shirley Thomas and specialist in July 2014 and has Darcy Fettig “REALTORS® of the Month”! Thomas and more than 13 years of banking experience, seven of Fettig had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty for which were in quality control. Hartje is responsible the month of November 2015. Thomas has been a for conducting internal audits to ensure assets are licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Fettig has been a properly safeguarded and liabilities are properly licensed REALTOR® since 1993. recorded. She will also coordinate various external audits and examinations.

Jona Ziemann has been promoted to systems administrator III, with responsibilities including hardware and software maintenance and system analysis. He joined Starion in August 2005 as an IT specialist and was promoted to systems administrator II in May 2011. Ziemann has a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from Minot State Shirley Thomas Darcy Fettig University.

Sanford Health Hires Executive Director of Planning and Construction

Sara Iverson-Smith has been hired as the Executive Director of Planning and Construction for the Bismarck region of Sanford Health. In her new role, she will coordinate and manage future expansion and property Sara Iverson-Smith and lease management efforts in western North Dakota. She will also coordinate space needs and allocations of existing clinics and hospital departments.

Credit Collections Bureau Promotions Credit Collections Bureau is proud to announce Hannah Peterson has been promoted to Collection Associate and Ashlei Murphy has been promoted to Collection Coordinator.

Masseth Presents at Inaugural Event Jeanne Masseth recently spoke at the Bismarck

Mandan Association of Talent Development (BMATD) inaugural meeting. Her presentation, “Sparking Mentorship”, introduced strategies for enhancing employee performance and engagement in the workplace. BMATD is a professional association for professionals in training and talent development field.

KLJ Solutions Welcomes Sisk As Vice President Of Finance

KLJ Solutions, the parent company of a diversified family of companies focused Susan Sisk on progressive engineering, advanced oilfield operations and innovative property development, is proud to welcome Susan Sisk.

Sisk is serving as Vice President of Finance. Her responsibilities include financial planning, analysis and reporting as well as budget management. Prior to joining the corporation, she served as the Chief Financial Officer and controller for CHI St. Alexius. Sisk currently serves on the Missouri Valley YMCA board and the Bismarck City Human Relations Committee.

She also serves as an appointee to the Judicial Nominating Committee and the Judicial Conduct Commission.

Eye Center of the Dakotas Welcomes Wrege

Vicki Wrege has joined Ralph, Shannon and Linda as an optician at the Eye Center of the Dakotas, located at 1221 West Divide Avenue in Bismarck. Vicki brings over 30 years of experience as an optician to The EyeWear Gallery at the Eye Center of the Dakotas. She excels in styling frames for all ages and lifestyles.

Chamber Connection | 31

COMMUNITY

ASK-A-PRO

NEWS

Parker Named Manager of Emergency Medical Services

PERKS

University of Mary Hires Dahl

Bonnie Dahl, SPHR, SHRMSCP, is the new director of Human Resources at the University of Mary. Bonnie

In addition to his duties as comes to Mary with close to manager of Sanford AirMed 25 years of human resources in Bismarck, Adam Parker is Adam Parker experience, most recently with now manager of emergency Bonnie Dahl the Starion Financial Human medical services (EMS) at Resources Department.

Sanford Health in Bismarck. In his new role, Adam Dahl holds a bachelor’s degree in speech/ will oversee CPR, advanced cardiac life support and communications from North Dakota State University patient advice liaison service classes for internal and a master’s degree in human resource and external customers. He will also oversee management from Kennedy Western University, as emergency medical responder, emergency medical well as her senior professional in human resources technician and continuing education classes for emergency responders and will manage outreach and (SPHR) certification.

Dahl begins her new position immediately. collaboration efforts with area ambulance services.

Herrmann Joins Transworld Business Advisors of Bismarck

Nelson Family Dentistry to Become Polished Dental

Dr. Jim Nelson & Dr. Crystal Overby are proud to announce the partnership of Kristin Schoch, DDS buying into the dental practice of Nelson Family Dentistry, soon to be known as Polished Dental!

Tim Herrmann

Transworld Business Advisors of Bismarck is proud to announce Tim Herrmann has joined their Bismarck team.

Holt Named CHI St. Alexius Health’s Vice President of Human Resources

CHI St. Alexius Health announced today that Ellen Holt has accepted the vice president Ellen Holt of human resources position effective December 28, 2015.

The vice president of human resources reports to Tom Sams, vice president of human resources business practices, Catholic Health Initiatives – Fargo Division, and Kurt Schley, president of CHI St. Alexius Health, and manages core staff functions for the organization including compensation, benefits, staffing, human resources communications, and associate relations.

Holt received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, and earned a Master of Science in Professional Development – Non-counseling in the Counselor Education Program from Winona State University. Prior to joining CHI St. Alexius Health, Holt was vice president of human resources at Basin Electric and is currently an adjunct faculty member at University of Mary

JANUARY TELEVISED LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

Monday, 4th 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission Monday, 4th 5:30 pm Mandan School Board (recorded) Tuesday, 5th 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission Monday, 11th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board Monday, 11th 5:30 pm Mandan Park Board (recorded) Tuesday, 12th 8:00 am Burleigh County Water Resource District Tuesday, 12th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission Wednesday, 13th 5:15 pm Burleigh County Planning Commission Thursday, 14th 5:30 pm Morton County Commission (recorded) Tuesday, 19th 1:00 pm Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board Tuesday, 19th 5:00 pm Mandan City Commission Tuesday, 19th 7:00 pm Mandan School Board

32 | Chamber Connection

Wednesday, 20th 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission Thursday, 21st 5:15 pm Bismarck Park District Board Monday, 25th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board Monday, 25th 5:15 pm Mandan Planning Commission (recorded) Tuesday, 26th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission Tuesday, 26th 5:30 pm Morton County Commission (recorded) Tuesday, 27th 5:00 pm Bismarck Planning Commission (recorded) Thursday, 28th 3:30 pm Burleigh County Social Services Meetings can be viewed LIVE (unless otherwise indicated) and are replayed several times on Government Access, cable channel 2 and HD602. Government meetings are also available for online viewing (LIVE and Video on Demand) at www.freetv.org.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Welcome new members

The Chamber of Commerce encourages all members to do business with each other. The following companies and organizations have recently made an important investment in their business by joining the Chamber. Please consider them for your professional and personal needs.

To find a complete listing of Chamber members, view the Member Directory online at www.bismarckmandan.com.

Mr. Squeegee Window Cleaning Inc. PO Box 49 Bismarck, ND Tena & Matt Liudahl 701-471-0760 We provide commercial and residential window cleaning in the Bismarck/Mandan area and surrounding communities.

Blue Hawk Audio & Video 609 Kirkwood Mall Bismarck, ND Mike Wilkinson 701-751-7808 North Dakota’s leader in quality electronics. HDTV, Home Theater, Stereo, and Smart Homes! Now Open in Kirkwood Mall! Now featuring Rock Star and Movie Art!!

Martin Luther School 413 East Avenue D Bismarck, ND Kathryn Jones (701) 224-9070 An accredited preschool through eighth grade school serving the Bismarck-Mandan community, enriching lives and sharing Christ through quality Lutheran education.

National Credit Care 1499 W. 121st Ave. Suite 300 Westminster, CO Cory Parten (866) 595-6313 Credit restoration firm that specializes in personalized credit repair.

Clear Skies Aviation Mandan, ND Shannon Gangl (701) 226-7048 Clear Skies Aviation is led by the best in the business and is committed to providing our clients’ best in class service at a fair price.

DESIGN | FABRICATE | INSTALL | SERVICE

The Rainmaker Group 116 N 5th St. Suite 102 Bismarck, ND Chris Young (701) 530-0806 We use the objective power of Moneyball statistics and multi-science assessments to help our Clients identify, hire, and retain the best salespeople.

A Cause for Claws / Spay & Neuter Center 1222 Basin Ave. Bismarck, ND Lee Rittel (701) 751-5828 Only thrift store in Bismarck where the proceeds go to helping animals. Our mission is to spay and neuter companion animals, barn, stray, and feral cats thus reducing the number of unwanted litters.

701.250.9696 3521 Memorial Hwy Mandan, ND bismarck@indigosignworks.com

Lighted Signage | Pole & Monument Signs | Awnings | Vinyl Graphics Neon | LEDs | Interior & Exterior Digital Displays | Interior Signs | ADA Digital Printing | Express Graphics

Chamber Connection | 33

Ribbon Cuttings

Ribbon cuttings are conducted by a committee of Chamber volunteers called Ambassadors. Businesses qualify for a ribbon cutting if they open, move, and remodel, are under new ownership, change their name, or offer a new product or service. To schedule a ribbon cutting, please call Amanda Schwieters at 701-223-5660 or email aschwieters@bismancc.com.

ALLSTATE INSURANCE Vanessa Monteith, Agency Owner, at her new business in Mandan on 211 West Main Street Ste. B. Phone: 751-7733 Member.

BAYMONT INN & SUITES Karen Summers, General Manager, and Robyn Herbel, along with staff outside their new name change (formally known as the Seven Seas Hotel and Waterpark) at 2611 Old Red Trail, Mandan. Phone: 663-7401. Member.

D&N CINEMATICS LLC David Diebel and Carson Nordgaard, Co-Founders, at their new office in Bismarck on 208 E Broadway Ave Ste. A. Phone: 220-7724. Member.

34 | Chamber Connection

GARY’S GALLERY Keenan Miller & Tammy Dewall, Owners, at their new location on 410 W Main St. Mandan. Phone: 258-0060.

MODIFY ALTERNATIONS & BOUTIQUE Rebecca Silbernagel-Rouse, Owner, at her new business in 215 E Broadway Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 258-5099.

UP & RUNNING DESIGN Mike Renner & Ryan Duffy, Creative Directors, at their new office space in Bismarck on 208 E Broadway Ave Ste. A Phone: 595-0678. Member.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!

ARMOR INTERACTIVE Shaun Ahlgren, President and staff, at their new location in Bismarck at 1929 N Washington Street. Phone: 221-0948.

Member.

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP Rob Meltzer, LUTCF Senior Financial Services Representative, at his new location in Bismarck at 1929 N Washington Street Ste. M. (Inside IMPACT Dakota office). Phone: 751-3589. Member.

MR. CLIPPERS Ronald & Jennifer Halo, owners, at their new business in the Gateway Mall at 2700 State Street in Bismarck.

Phone: 202-1934.

UNIVERSAL ATHLETIC Dylan Beddow, Team Commercial Salesman and staff, at their new location in Bismarck in 1929 N Washington Street Ste. U. Phone: 222-8500. Member.

MOCHA MOMMA’S COFFEE SHOP Nancy Swenningson, is the new owner of Mocha Momma’s Coffee shop in the Gateway Mall at 2700 State Street in Bismarck. Phone: 250 – 8550. Member.

BISMAN COMMUNITY FOOD CO-OP Randy Joersz, General Manager; Heidi Demars, Outreach Coordinator and other board members at their ground breaking ceremony in Bismarck at 711 Sweet Ave. (old Snoopers Tons of Fun). Phone: 595-1263. Member.

Chamber Connection | 35

Bismarck-Mandan ChamberConnection 1640 Burnt Boat Drive P.O. Box 1675 Bismarck, ND 58502

Upcoming Chamber Events CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce

Date: 1/14/2016 Time: 5:30pm - 9:00pm Location: Bismarck Event Center, Hall B

cordially invites you to the

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: UNIVERSITY OF MARY

Date: 1/21/2016 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: University of Mary Butler Center – 505 S. 7th Street, Bismarck

Thursday, January 14, 2016 Bismarck Event Center, Hall B 5:30pm - Social — 6:30pm - Dinner

LUNCH AND LEARN FEATURING SISTER KATHLEEN ATKINSON

Date: 1/26/2016 Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: Gary Tharaldson School of Business, Rm 212 – U-Mary

LUNCH AND LEARN FEATURING ANDREAS WIDMER Date: 2/23/2016 Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm Location: Gary Tharaldson School of Business, Rm 212 – U-Mary

FEATURING Touring company

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: KLJ

Date: 2/25/2016 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: KLJ – 4585 Coleman Street, Bismarck

Bring in the New Year with good food, great people and laughter! Enjoy top-notch comedy and improv excellence.

RSVP for this event online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or by calling the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

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