January Connection

Connection JANUARY 2024

A BUSINESS PUBLICATION OF THE BISMARCK MANDAN CHAMBER EDC

WWW.BISMARCKMANDAN.COM

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Matt Sagaser ...................................................................... Chair Lee Pierce ...................................................................Vice-Chair Dave Ehlis ....................................................................Secretary Wendy Van Duyne ..................................................... Past Chair David Rogstad ............................................................ Treasurer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Evan Anderson ...........................................................Gizmonics Kimberly Bloms ....Kids in Motion Pediatric Therapy & Wellness Nathan Boehm ....................................................Morton County Andy Buntrock ....................... Basin Electric Power Cooperative Joe Camisa ..........................................................City of Mandan Dan Eastgate ....................................Venture Real Estate Group Dave Ehlis ..............................................................Bravera Bank Fred Fridley .........................................................Sanford Health Amber Larson .....................................................Bartlett & West Heather Jones .............................................City Air Mechanical Wayne Munson ..................................................Burleigh County Larry Oswald ......................................Montana-Dakota Utilities Marnie Piehl .......................................................................AARP Lee Pierce .........................................................ICON Architects Mike Remboldt ................................................................HIT Inc. Dave Rogstad ....................................................... Starion Bank Matt Sagaser ......................................................Doosan Bobcat Mike Schmitz .....................................................City of Bismarck Wendy Van Duyne .....................Stantec Consulting Services Inc.

CHAMBER EDC STAFF

Emily Eback ...Business Development & Marketing Coordinator Tatelyn Houle ................................................Event Coordinator Brenda Nagel .................................................President & CEO Rachel Neff ..................Membership Sales & Retention Director Christine Nelson ..........................Vice President Sales & Events Rebecca Pelkey .................................Communications Specialist Julianne Sauvage ...................... Office & Accounting Manager Lyndsey Scheurer .........................Creative Marketing Specialist Nathan Schneider .........Vice President Economic Development Emily Seebold ................................................ Sales Coordinator Cathryn Sprynczynatyk .....................Communications Specialist

1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-223-5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com

CONTACT INFORMATION Advertising Emily Seebold eseebold@bmcedc.com

Content Rebecca Pelkey rpelkey@bmcedc.com

E X PA N D YO U R B U S I N E SS

FIBT.COM 2 4 Connection

H

CHAIR'S CORNER appy New Year to all Chamber EDC members!

I am excited to kick off my year as Chair of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Board of Directors and as always, the Chamber EDC staff has a lot of great programming, events and opportunities to get involved in our ever-evolving community of Bismarck and Mandan. As you'll read in this month's Connection, the Chamber EDC is kicking off the new year with a focus on civic engagement. We believe that the strength of our community lies in the hands of its diverse and passionate individuals. That’s why we’re excited to announce our upcoming Candidate Campaign Training – an opportunity for you to step forward and make a positive impact. If you aren't sure about running for an elected office, consider writing supportive policy for your workplace that allows your employees to pursue this opportunity.

In addition to Candidate Campaign Training, I hope you'll take the time to join the January Membership Mixer at Eide Ford Lincoln. Mixers are a great way to talk with Chamber EDC members to hear how things are going in their line of business and are free of charge to attend for you and your employees.

Just as workforce is top of mind for each of you, it is top of mind for the Chamber EDC. The staff is busy working on putting plans together for the annual Job Shadow Week; an excellent opportunity to allow our local students to shadow various positions within your organizations to help them better understand what they might want to pursue as a career after high school.

Keep an eye out for information about this opportunity coming soon.

Finally, our Economic Development team at the Chamber EDC continues to execute on their Strategic Plan that many of you participated in formulating. As plans fall into place, updates will be shared. If you have questions about the Strategic Plan, don't hesitate to reach out to Nathan, the Chamber EDC Vice President for Economic Development.

No matter your level of involvement this year, I am excited to work with Brenda and the staff to offer the high level of programming and events that you have come to expect. I look forward to seeing you out and about supporting our efforts and helping us to move business forward for Bismarck Mandan in 2024.

twitter.com/bismancedc

Matt Sagaser, Chair Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

8 Thursday, February 8th, we encourage you to donate to the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.

facebook.com/bismancedc @bismancedc

Help us provide transportation and lodging for individuals traveling for cancer treatment.

To make a secure online contribution to the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation, simply go to www.givingheartsday.org on February 8 and click on the Giving Hearts Day “Donate” button.

Connection 3 3

FEATURE

HOW TO RUN FOR LOCAL OFFICE

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Running for public office can sound daunting. And yet, there are tried-and-true strategies to breakdown even the most daunting of tasks. The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC is always engaged in encouraging good candidates to run for public office. In the interest of that, the Chamber EDC is partnering with the Bismarck Mandan Board of Realtors and the North Dakota Association of Realtors to host Candidate Campaign Training. The training session will be 9:30am - 3:00pm on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at the North Dakota Heritage Center. The fee is $50, and registration is at bit.ly/3TpdcRd John Winston, Director of State and Local Political Programs for National Association of Realtors, and Justin Allen, Senior Strategic Consultant at Real Strategies, will be teaching the Candidate Campaign Training in January.

They shared information with Connection Magazine on how to run for public office. In addition, we interviewed two local elected officials who are sister and brother. Anne Cleary serves on the Bismarck City Commission. Sen. Sean Cleary represents District 35 in Bismarck.

WHAT STEPS SHOULD PEOPLE TAKE TO PREPARE THEMSELVES TO RUN FOR OFFICE? Justin Allen: “Follow along or attend meetings of the office that you’re interested in running for. Make sure you are familiar with the process, how decisions are made. If they aren’t already involved in the community, there are a lot of great ways to develop experience by getting involved in appointed boards, volunteer positions.”

Anne Cleary: “I made sure I could do it, and it wouldn’t disrupt my businesses too much… Early on, I made sure to touch base with as much staff as I could at the city. I tried to make contact with each director to make sure I understood what the city does. I tried to make sure they all knew who I was and make sure I had a basic understanding of all of the portfolios if I was elected.”

Sean Cleary: “Logistically, getting a checking account, getting a logo for the campaign materials, finding people you can rely on for advice.”

4 4 Connection

HOW CAN PEOPLE UNDERSTAND THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES ASSOCIATED WITH THAT OFFICE?

Anne Cleary: “(City) directors were super happy to teach me so that they didn’t have to answer those questions after someone was elected. The more understanding you have of it makes it easier to talk to voters as you go door to door. As you talk to voters, you are going to get asked some pretty difficult questions, and it’s important to be able to have some of that understanding. Voters can tell and that matters.”

Sean Cleary: “For anyone thinking about running, reaching out to local elected officials and learning from them would be really important when deciding whether or not to run.

I think they will find all of our local elected officials in Bismarck-Mandan are very accessible.”

WHAT ARE SOME STRATEGIES TO CONNECT WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?

Sean Cleary: “I spent a lot of my time door-knocking or canvassing. I think that’s the No. 1 thing a candidate can do. Connect with voters and learn what is important for them.”

Anne Cleary: “I was told by successful candidates in the past to do a lot of door-knocking. Even though you only talk to one person at a time, as opposed to events when you can talk to 30-50 people, I had some of the best conversations while door-knocking. It put me out of my comfort zone as a Millennial.”

John Winston: “In most local races, anybody that has done door-knocking realizes it takes a lot of effort. Sometimes you need to find other ways to reach people with your message — digital, social media advertising and direct mail.”

FEATURE HOW DO YOU CONNECT WITH VOTERS?

Winston: “Your message has to be clear and concise enough. You can’t ask voters to do a bunch of homework. People need to be able to understand who you are and what you stand for. We do a pretty extensive messaging exercise in the class.”

The Burleigh County Commission will have two seats open for election in 2024.

Four candidates will advance from the June primary. The final two seats will be decided in the November general election.

Allen: “What are voters concerned about?

What are you bringing to the table that is going to help the voters see the future that they want to see in the community?”

How do you fundraise and manage campaign finances?

Anne Cleary: “It was very grassroots. I sold t-shirts. I accepted donations on my website.

It was a lot of individual small donors. I had a couple of campaign parties. People could come, meet me, ask whatever questions they wanted. The people who hosted were people I knew, but I wanted to make sure the people who were invited were people who didn’t know me.”

Sean Cleary: “I created a budget at the beginning of the campaign and planned how to spend that money if I were to raise certain amounts… It was easier than I thought it would be. Tie the fundraising to what you’re hoping to accomplish.”

Winston: “The No. 1 thing we try teach the class is it’s not as hard or as intimidating as they think it may be. The No. 1 concern is that they don’t want to go through the process of asking for money. We look at how to be efficient with the money you do raise. We stress the importance of raising money. It’s more of a negotiation. We help identify which people to ask for money. We work through a tried-and-true processes for fundraising.

“Make sure your strategy leads your budget; don’t let your budget lead your strategy… What are your strategic objectives? What do you want to accomplish in this campaign? Then, figure out what budget you need.”

Allen: “It’s important to target your efforts to the most important voters… Try to be effective and efficient with your resources so that you’re not spending resources on voters who are less likely to make a difference in the election.”

Photo Credit: LPT Images

WHAT IS A TYPICAL TIMELINE TO RUN FOR OFFICE?

Allen: “How are people going to be voting? (There will be) mail-in voting, early voting, and voting on election day. You need to tailor your energy and campaign to whatever the timeline is. A decade ago, campaigns were built to peak a week in advance of election day. Now, campaigns have to be a lot savvier about reaching out to voters… Depending on the election, that could mean starting much earlier.”

Anne Cleary: “There are deadlines. You have to collect signatures. I would encourage whoever is doing that to collect more signatures than you need by 10 percent.

You have to make sure all are legible addresses within your district. Some may not realize they aren’t within your district. There are fundraising deadlines. Have a calendar of events you don’t want to miss. Having a target for spending. You don’t want to be too frugal with your money, and then you hit the last two weeks and you have to figure out how to target spending that money.”

Sean Cleary: “Legislative seats are slightly different from nonpartisan local races. First, you seek the endorsement of your local political party. I didn’t receive the endorsement from my local district by a slim margin, but I did gather signatures to get on the ballot. After winning the primary election in June, that gave me the local Republican endorsement. Then, I competed for that seat in November against the Democrats’ nominee.”

Winston: “The earlier people start in the process and thinking about it, the better. People who are thinking about running several years from now should attend the class now.”

Connection 3 5

FEATURE The Mandan City Commission will have three seats, including the mayor, open for election in June 2024.

Photo Credit: LPT Images

WHAT ARE CRITICAL MILESTONES OR EVENTS IN THE CAMPAIGN CALENDAR?

Winston: “You have to work your timeline backwards.

One of the most critical things is when you announce your candidacy. Most candidates only receive press coverage two times in the campaign — one is when they announce and the other one is after election day. If you are going to make an announcement and declare that you’re in, think through that process.”

Allen: “There are strategic advantages to announcing your candidacy and showing organizational strength to possibly dissuade opponents from filing or announcing. Making it look like they are very organized, looking like they have a lot of support and strength.”

Anne Cleary: “It’s important to attend any debates where you can talk about issues. We had a lot of fun at the parade. It was a great year for the parade, and there was a lot of visibility. You know you are being viewed by a big group of people.”

WHAT ARE COMMON CHALLENGES ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

Winston: “Everybody has concerns about running for office. One concern is that it’s like running another small business. What are some hacks or things we can do to make our campaign more efficient, more effective with what time we do have. Most people running for office most likely have a full-time job, family, other obligations… How do they use the skills that they already know from running small businesses or being entrepreneurs? … It’s my belief that developing a plan is just like running a small business.

You’ve got to have a plan. You have to maximize your resources. When you fundraise, there are often negotiation skills in that piece.”

Anne Cleary: “I was really grassroots. I didn’t have a big, long list of donors. Try to decide the best use of your dollars and the best use of your time… Similar to running a business, you have to figure out your target market. People who have already heard of you, are not where you want to spend your dollars. Since I’m young and I run in downtown and District 35 circles, I focused my door knocking in Districts 47 and 30, which are high-voting districts. I was careful to look at primary elections in non-presidential years. When you only have so much money to spend, you want to be as specific as possible.”

Allen: “For first time candidates, it can be overwhelming — especially some of the unknowns, especially raising money. Hopefully prospective candidates will walk out of (the training) with a good plan. We want them to walk out of there not feeling overwhelmed… I ran for City Council for a couple of terms. That first time you run especially, there can be a lot of scary things out there. We hope to demystify that.”

6 4 Connection

FEATURE HOW IMPORTANT ARE ENDORSEMENTS?

Allen: “I do think endorsements are valuable… (Endorsements) provide voters with confidence that you are someone they can rely on and trust. If there is a brand out there or an organization that they can trust, that can be a shortcut to you gaining their trust… For nonpartisan races or newer candidates, endorsements can be really critical.

It can be a quick shortcut for validation to voters.”

WHAT CAN YOU LEARN FROM OTHER CAMPAIGNS?

Anne Cleary: “Pay attention to other races and what that could say about your voter pool. Is it a presidential year? Are you running in a primary or general election? Are there ballot measures that could bring a lot of voters?”

Allen: “As someone who is going to be engaged, be prepared and have a thick skin.

Try not to take things too personally when your decisions are questioned. Understand the importance of good communication. Bad information, incomplete information travels so fast these days. You have to do a really good job communicating and being transparent. The people that are successful are small business people. Those skills transfer so well into government service and help people connect with voters. People want candidates who have good motivations, who have the same values.”

WHAT ADVICE SHOULD INTERESTED CANDIDATES TAKE?

Allen: “My advice would be to go ahead and run. If they are on the fence, go ahead and do it. If candidates approach it in a smart way, it can be a positive experience for them. It often takes a second, third, or fourth run for a candidate to be successful.

Sometimes you have to develop some name recognition… Anyone who is thinking about it, there are some ways you can dip your toes in the water such as accepting an appointed position first. Our communities are stronger when good people who care get involved.”

Anne Cleary: “The best thing I did was to make sure I understood the job as one of my first steps. Your interest may come from one or two main areas of the job. It’s important to make sure you understand other areas of the job that you may not gravitate toward.”

Sean Cleary: “I would encourage them to try to learn as much about the process as out the office they want to serve in and how campaigning for the office works. Professionals who are considering it might find that even if they don’t have direct political experience, their professional experience may really lend themselves to serving in office and campaigning for office, too. Folks who might be considering it, find a mentor who can offer them advice on how to campaign. Having someone who has been through it before is incredibly helpful.”

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF RUNNING FOR PUBLIC OFFICE? Join us for our 2024 Candidate Campaign Training.

WHO: Anyone who is considering running for local or state elected office. Even if you don’t have active plans to run in 2024, if you have an inkling that you might run for office someday this training will be useful.

There are strategies you can implement now that will benefit a campaign in the future.

WHEN: 9:30am - 3:00pm Wednesday, Jan. 24 WHERE: North Dakota Heritage Center 612 E. Boulevard Ave., Bismarck FEE: $50 REGISTRATION:

Winston: “Come to our class. Realize that it’s not hard. It’s just being smart with your time — smart about how you market yourself, smart ways to use your energy to be efficient… To me the strength of our democracy is at the local level. I want people to leave our class feeling empowered and with a strategy of how to get there… Your community depends on people like you.”

Connection 3 7

FEATURE

LEGISLATIVE TERM LIMITS

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk In the 2022 election, North Dakota voters passed term limits for state legislators. An individual can serve a maximum of eight years in the North Dakota Senate and eight years in the North Dakota House.

The term limits took effect in 2023, but they did not take into account previous years that incumbents have already served. For example, a legislator elected in 2022 who has already served for 20 years can still run for two more four-year terms.

By contrast, an incumbent legislator re-elected in 2024 who has already served for 20 years can only serve for six more years, since the two incumbent years of 2023-2025 will be counted. Presumably, that legislator can only run for one more four-year term in 2024. He or she wouldn’t be eligible to run for another four-year term in 2028, since they are only eligible to serve two of the four years.

A legislator who has served eight years in the Senate is eligible to serve eight years in the House, and vice versa.

2024 PRIMARY ELECTION Tuesday, June 11

2024 GENERAL ELECTION Tuesday, November 5

Mandan Mayor — 1 seat open

Burleigh County Commission — 2 seats open

Bismarck City Commission — 2 seats open

Morton County Commission — 3 seats open

Mandan City Commission — 2 seats open

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS District 8 Rural Bismarck to the North and East Senate — 1 seat open House — 2 seats open

Bismarck School Board — 2 seats open Mandan School Board — 3 seats open *Mandan School Board has 3-year terms.

Bismarck Park Board — 2 seats open Mandan Park Board — 2 seats open Burleigh County Commission (primary) — 4 candidates advance to General Election.

Morton County Commission (primary) — 6 candidates advance to General Election.

For more information and resources for the upcoming election, visit https://vote.nd.gov or call the Burleigh County auditor’s office at 701-222-6718 or the Morton County auditor’s office at 701-667-3300.

District 30 South Bismarck Senate — 1 seat open House — 2 seats open District 32 South Central Bismarck Senate — 1 seat open House — 2 seats open District 34 Mandan Senate — 1 seat open House — 2 seats open For more information and resources for the upcoming election, visit https://vote.nd.gov.

8 4 Connection

FEATURE

OPEN BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Not ready to run for public office, but you still want to get involved? The Cities of Mandan and Bismarck are always looking for citizens to serve on open boards and committees.

BISMARCK BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Bismarck Animal Advisory Board Bismarck Planning & Zoning Commission Board of Adjustment Burleigh-Morton Behavioral Health Coalition Civil Service Commission Committee for People with Disabilities Forestry Advisory Board Historic Preservation Commission Human Relations Committee Library Board Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board Metropolitan Planning Organization Technical Advisory Committee Renaissance Zone Authority Special Assessment Commission Vision Fund Committee For more information, go to www.bismarcknd.gov/604/ Boards-Committees.

MANDAN BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Airport Authority Architectural Review Commission Bismarck-Mandan Mayors' Committee for People with Disabilities Civil Service Commission Code Enforcement Appeals Board Community Beautification Committee Equalization Growth Fund Committee Library Board of Trustees Parking Authority Planning & Zoning Commission Remediation Trust Renaissance Zone Committee Special Assessment Commission Tree Board Visitors Committee Weed Board

BURLEIGH COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Home Rule Charter Housing Authority Human Service Zone Board Local Emergency Planning Committee Burleigh County Park Board Planning & Zoning Commission School District Reorganization Special Assessment Commission Water Resource Board Weed Board For more information, go to www.burleigh.gov/ government/boardscommittees.

MORTON COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMITTEES Housing Authority Lower Heart River Water Resource District Morton County Fair Association Morton County Highway/Road Commission Morton County Park Board Morton/Mandan Public Library Morton County Water Resource District Planning and Zoning Commission School Reorganization Board Three Rivers Human Service Zone Board Weed Control Board Western Plains Public Health Board For more information, go to www.mortonnd.org/ mortoncountyboards .

For more information, go to www.cityofmandan.com/ boards.

Connection 3 9

MEMBER PROFILE

Bubbles and Brews ND has been a Chamber EDC member since 2021.

Photo Credit: @rachelkost.photo

Cassidy Hartman BUBBLES AND BREWS ND Tell us about yourself and your role within your business.

A: Co-owner, Cassidy Hartman, has been part of the Bismarck-Mandan community since 2012 where she now resides in Mandan with her husband (Andrew) and son (Wylder). Cassidy graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Business Marketing. Cassidy found a passion for sales, marketing, and public relations early on in life and has always had an entrepreneurial spirit.

Co-owner, Krysten Faehnrich, grew up in New Salem, ND and graduated from Bismarck State College with an Associates of Science and Arts Degree. She now lives in Mandan with her husband (Jake), son (Mason) and baby girl Faehnrich on the way! Oh, and by the way, her and Cassidy even live on the same cul-de-sac! Krysten is such a people person and has outstanding skills in organization, training and event planning.

10 4 Connection

MEMBER SINCE 2021

Together Krysten and Cassidy are a dynamic duo and combined their talents and individual skill sets to bring Bubbles and Brews ND to life. Cassidy handles “all things business” from marketing, sales, legalities and financials while Krysten takes care of managing servers, training, client relations, and planning event details. On top of that, you will also find both of them hauling the mobile bar in the enclosed trailer, setting up and serving at the events!

MEMBER PROFILE Briefly tell us the history behind Bubbles and Brews ND and how you got started.

A: With a desire to start a small business and to bring something very unique to North Dakota, the development of Bubbles and Brews ND began in 2020. Cassidy and Krysten put their skills together, researched the mobile bar industry and created a business plan, which led to officially establishing Bubbles and Brews ND in May 2021. Their Piaggio Ape mobile bar came all the way from Italy on a shipping container and as you can imagine, COVID-19 caused a few delays to their goal of being operational

by August 2021. Nevertheless, the Piaggio arrived in the US a bit behind schedule, but it was refurbished and converted into a mobile bar by September 2021! They started marketing this concept to the community during the summer and the bar was ready to serve guests by September 13th, 2021 with Century 21 Morrison being their very first client for the Grand Opening of their new building!

How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted Bubbles and Brews ND? A: The growth we have seen in the community is so exciting, and Bubbles and Brews ND is here to help all of the local businesses celebrate their goals and milestones!

We are often contacted and hired by businesses as they are planning their Grand Opening or Ribbon Cutting ceremonies and so with every new business brings new opportunities. At the same time, we try to continually support the growth by staying in touch with our community, attending networking events and learning about other businesses so that we can refer our clients to other types of services as well. The future is bright for Bismarck-Mandan and we are very proud to be part of this community!

What does the future Bubbles and Brews ND look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: We are so excited about what the future holds for our small business because every year we find ourselves booking more and more events in different markets.

The base of our clientele is Weddings, but we have also started to see a higher demand in other event types such as Graduation Parties, Corporate Events, Large Scale Conferences, Community Appreciation Block Parties, Holiday Parties, and the list goes on and on. Each event is also so exciting because there is always someone who hasn’t seen our vintage Piaggio mobile bar before and we love telling the story of how we got started!

The Mobile Bar industry continues to grow, and we challenge ourselves every day to not only keep up with the trends, but to stay ahead of them! A major trend we are seeing right now is the desire for custom cocktails (and mocktails) and a select drink menu. We have a list of so many recipes that have been crowd favorites and we continue to add more – testing new recipes is one of the best parts of our job! In addition to that, it is our mission to offer a unique and customizable service to every client and that goes far beyond just serving drinks. We offer services such as custom signage, engraved tap handles, customized drink toppers, décor package add ons and more.

Bubbles and Brews ND became a Chamber EDC member in 2021, why do you continue to renew?

A: Becoming a member of the Chamber was one of the first things we did when establishing our business in 2021. The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC does such a wonderful job of hosting networking events, celebrating the wins and successes in our community and most of all supporting the local businesses. We know that we can always count on the Chamber EDC to be a resource to us and they are all such a joy to work with as individuals. We know we can count on them and that they will always be cheering us on as a local small business, which is why we continue to renew our membership year after year.

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

A: Every year we have the opportunity to work with more and more local businesses through our mobile bar services. These are truly some of our favorite events because we get to help businesses celebrate their successful year with a company party, host customer appreciation events to thank their clients for their loyalty, or offer a unique feature for the social of a conference. We also offer special packages for our B2B clients and almost 100% of the businesses we work with end up being repeat clients. We can’t thank them enough for trusting us to help them throw an outstanding event. An important thing to know about us is that we do not buy or sell alcohol or carry a liquor license, which is why we are able to be so “mobile” and serve at so many different locations. We work with our clients and their venue to get all drinks/ kegs ordered through the venue, local brewery or a local liquor retailer if it is a private party. We can also work with a venue’s servers to serve the alcohol from our mobile bar if their license requires them to do so, and then our staff is also present at the event to make sure the equipment runs properly. On top of that, we carry General Liability and Liquor Liability insurance to cover ourselves and the client on the day of the event. So, whether your event is in a backyard, corporate office or a local venue, we are ready to roll right in and bring the party!

Connection 3 11

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

COST OF LIVING INFORMATION RELEASED The 2023 3rd quarter Cost of Living Index (COLI) was released in October. The COLI is put together by the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness and is an analysis of average prices submitted by 269 urban areas across the United States. The COLI compares all 269 submitted urban areas with a score of 100 being average.

Metro

The information collected is also used to populate the Cost-of-Living Calculator on the Chamber EDC website.

The calculator determines what salary someone would need to earn in Bismarck-Mandan to compare to what that person is earning in any of the other 268 urban areas.

Both the index and the calculator assist the Chamber EDC in out talent attraction efforts. The comparison to their area communities is shown below.

Composite Index

Grocery Items

Housing

Utilities

Transportation

Health Care

Other Services

BismarckMandan

94.7

93.4

88.7

88.5

102.0

111.7

97.8

Fargo

98.1

96.9

82.7

94.3

102.9

118.1

108.3

Grand Forks

91.6

92.8

83.5

108.9

94.6

101.4

90.9

Minot

92.7

91.8

78.0

93.3

105.5

117.2

98.4

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO DRIVE NEW AMERICANS Workforce is a challenge for employers throughout our country. One solution our state is taking advantage of is our New American programs. These programs help fill the gaps in our workforce while supporting those new to our country.

GRAND OPENING!

GRAND OPENING! GRAND OPENING! January - 27 | 28

- 27 | 28 January -January 28 Club Pilates Bismarck is27 opening| soon!

Sign-up for a FREE Club IntroPilates class Bismarck with ouris opening soon!

Sign-up for a FREE Intro class with our Club Pilates Bismarck opening soon! amazing Instructors andislearn all about amazing Instructors and learn all about offerings!

Sign-upour formembership a FREE Intro with offerings! our ourclass membership GET OFF 20% OFF GET 20% amazing Instructors and learn all about RSVP Today: 7017514150 RSVP Today: 7017514150 FIRST MONTH FIRST MONTH our membership offerings!

12 4 Connection

RSVP Today: 7017514150

GET 20% OFF FIRST MONTH

Mission Bismarck is in need of volunteers to help make these programs successful. Transportation is the number one barrier for New Americans integrating into our community. Mission Bismarck is looking for volunteers to give rides and provide transportation while New Americans get acclimated to their new home. Mission Bismarck is also seeking for a volunteer to help a New American with driving practice for their Driver’s License test. To get involved call 701-319-1137 or email missionbismarck@gmail.com.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OF THE MONTH

JOB FAIR REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

The purpose of the AUTOMATION TAX CREDIT is to allow a taxpayer an income tax credit for the purchase or capital lease of machinery and equipment to automate a manufacturing or animal agricultural process in North Dakota.

To qualify, the business must be certified as a primary sector business and the machinery and equipment must be approved by the Department of Commerce Division of Economic Development & Finance. The Tax credit is equal to up to 15% of the cost of the qualifying machinery and equipment. For a capital lease, the credit would be equal to up to 15% of the fair market value of the machinery and equipment at the inception of the lease.

Job Service, Bismarck State College, and United Tribes Technical College will be hosting the very first Capital Career Fair. This career fair is a collaboration between all three entities to bring students, the public, and employers together.

Automation tax credits aid in addressing workforce shortages by providing financial incentives for businesses to invest in automated technologies. By adopting automation solutions, companies can often streamline processes, increase efficiency, and increase capacity while upskilling current staffing.

Earlier this month the North Dakota Department of Commerce announced the application program to be open for primary sector businesses wishing to utilize the Automation Tax Credit. This credit can be used for automation equipment purchases made during the 2023 calendar year. Applicants are required to submit applications by January 31st but are encouraged to begin preparing applications early.

To learn more about the Automation Tax Credit, contact Nathan Schneider at nschneider@bmcedc.com.

The Capital Career Fair is free and open to the public.

The event will be held Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, at the Bismarck Events Center from 2:00pm to 6:00pm.

Employers can register at https://bit.ly/3RXBWiJ.

FLEX PACE SCORING MATRIX APPROVED

BY BISMARCK CITY COMMISSION The Vision Fund Committee recently approved the Flex Pace Application Scoring Matrix. This document is intended to provide an initial scoring of an applicant’s project and an indication of potential success of the project’s consideration for Vision Fund financial support. This scoring matrix is one aspect of the evaluation process for project funding.

Contact Nathan Schneider, Chamber EDC Vice President, for any question about the matrix or to apply for the program at nschneider@bmcedc.com.

Connection 3 13

CHAMBER EDC NEWS

To help our Chamber EDC Members get the most out of their Chamber EDC Membership, we have thought of super simple tips and tricks to get involved or get noticed. Every other month we will share those ideas right here in the Chamber EDC Connection!

Attending MEMBERSHIP MIXERS is one of the easiest ways to get involved. They are completely free events hosted by our members, that gives you the opportunity meet new individuals and network with fellow Chamber EDC members on a monthly basis.

They are typically held on a Thursday evening from 4:30pm - 6:30pm and usually have complementary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Sometimes, there are even door prizes and games.

Afraid of attending alone? Don’t be. You can always strike up conversation with one of your friendly Chamber EDC staff members. You can also seek out a Chamber EDC Ambassador or your can bring a co-worker! When your business is a Chamber EDC member, everyone within your organization is also a Chamber EDC member!

Check out our next Membership Mixer Thursday, January 18th at Eide Ford Lincoln located at 800 E Bismarck Expressway in Bismarck.

You can also go online to see our upcoming list of Chamber EDC Mixers or go to page 16 in the Chamber EDC Connection.

OUTSTANDING TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOMINATIONS OPENING SOON! Nominations for the 2024 Outstanding Teacher of the Year awards are set to open Monday, January 29th through Friday, February 16th! The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC, in collaboration with public and private schools, will be recognizing five exceptional educators from Bismarck and Mandan in the following divisions: Primary, Secondary, and Higher Education.

If you know a teacher who has made a profound impact in the lives of students, consider nominating them to receive the Crystal Apple Award. Whether they have made a difference in your life, your child's life, or the lives of many, this is a chance to give them the recognition they deserve!

To nominate a teacher for the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award, visit www.bismarckmandan.com for an electronic form. You may also send in a video, letter, or picture to thoule@bmcedc.com, answering the three questions on the nomination form in the format of your choice. Alternatively, nomination forms can be printed and mailed to the Chamber EDC’s office: Attn:

Tatelyn Houle Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC 1640 Burnt Boat Dr. Bismarck, ND 58503

The deadline to submit a nomination is February 16th. For any questions about the award process or nominations, email Tatelyn Houle, thoule@bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660.

Want to extend your support for teacher appreciation in the Bismarck/Mandan area? Reach out to Emily Seebold at eseebold@bmcedc.com for sponsorship opportunities.

THANK YOU SPONSORS: Presenting Sponsor: Award Sponsors:

14 4 Connection

Kyle Herman Agency

CHAMBER EDC NEWS

FOCUS ON BISMARCK-MANDAN RETURNS FEBRUARY 2024 Get ready for the return of our exciting Economic Development event in February 2024! The Chamber EDC's premier event, Focus on Bismarck-Mandan, promises to provide valuable insights into our local economy and what we can expect in the future.

Focus on Bismarck-Mandan is an inside look on the local economy, diving into a comprehensive understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges specific to the Bismarck-Mandan area. With nationFocus on Bismarck-Mandan is February 29, 2024. ally known economist, Ernie Goss, as the keynote speaker, participants will have the opportunity to gain a THANK YOU SPONSORS: deeper understanding of the factors that will shape our local economy in the coming years. This localized perspective will Presenting Sponsor: allow businesses to tailor their strategies and initiatives to the specific needs and dynamics of our community.

Join us Thursday, February 29, 2024 at Founders Hall located in the Lumen Vitae University Center (LVUC) on the University of Mary campus. Check-in is from 2:00pm - 2:30pm with the event to start promptly at 2:30pm. A social is to follow from 4:30pm - 6:00pm in Chick's Place, also located in the LVUC. It is $60 for Chamber EDC members and $125 for General Admission.

For more information, contact Tatelyn Houle, thoule@ bmcedc.com. For those looking to make a bigger impact, table reservations and sponsorship opportunities are available, reach out to Emily Seebold at eseebold@bmcedc.com for more details.

Gold Sponsor:

Silver Sponsor: CHI St. Alexius Health, DCI Credit Services, JLG Architects Table Sponsor: AE2S, Amy Hullet with Century 21 Morrison Realty, Bank of North Dakota, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bravera Bank, Capital Credit Union, Capital Electric Cooperative, Inc., Choice Bank, Dakota Carrier Network, First International Bank & Trust, Gate City Bank, Kirkwood Bank & Trust, KLJ Engineering, KX News, MDU Resources Group, INC, Moore Engineering, Inc., National Information Solutions Cooperative, Sanford Health, University of Mary

Connection 3 15

CHAMBER EDC NEWS

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN HUMAN SERVICES DAY Human Services Day started at the brand-new United Way homeless Shelter. United Way’s Executive Director Jena Gullo guided the class on the tour. The rest of the day was spent at the new Dream Center, which focuses on food for those in need.

The class engaged with a foster care panel that included Bekka Koll and Rachel Suda of Children and Family Services and Natalie Anderson of Three Rivers Human Service Zone. Sherrice Roness presented on Bismarck Public Schools’ Students in Transition, a program that serves unhoused students.

Stacy Scaffer of the 31:8 Project spoke about human trafficking. The day closed with Dakota Home Care which provides non-medical care in the home.

Deputy David Tomlinson and Major Teddy Hugz of the Morton County Sheriff’s Department present on K9 therapy dogs to the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class during Serve & Protect Day at the Burleigh-Morton County Detention Center.

SERVE & PROTECT DAY Serve & Protect Day was hosted at the BurleighMorton County Detention Center. For the first time since 2019, the class was able to tour the county jail with Sheriff Kelly Leben. Due to winter COVID numbers, the tour was limited to the pod which currently houses no inmates.

Deputy David Tomlinson and Major Teddy Hugz of the Morton County Sheriff’s Department presented on K9 therapy dogs in law enforcement.

K9 therapy dogs are typically deployed in trauma situations. In Broward County, Fla., a 2015 study through the Children’s Advocacy Center found that only 36 percent of children who were victims of a crime would disclose what happened to them before K9 therapy dogs. After a K9 therapy dog program was implemented, that disclosure rate jumped to 82 percent with a dog present.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Presenting Sponsors:

HEALTHY CHOICES AT YOUR DOORSTEP. MegFitt creates personalized meal plans based on your food preferences, budget and schedule.

Reach your diet and nutritional goals with our weekly meal plans designed just for you, grocery lists and more. We create your meal plan in seconds!

enjoy 20% off your first order!

16 4 Connection

Gold Scholarship Sponsor: Sponsor: Program Sponsors: Bartlett & West, Inc., Basin Electric Power Cooperative, KLJ Human Services Day Co-chairs: Deidre Hillman – 13th Hat LLC Heather Pitsiladis – Glance Spa & Salon Katie Schulz – Legacy Financial Advisors Serve & Protect Co-chairs: Ashley Hoerner – First International Bank & Trust Robyn Krile – Lincoln Police Chief Scott Ritter – Aspen Group LLP Lunch & Breakfast Sponsors: Legacy Financial Group - Human Services Day Aspen Group LLP - Serve & Protect Day First International Bank & Trust - Serve & Protect Day

CHAMBER EDC NEWS

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! DUELING PIANOS DUECES WILD HEADLINES CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER With an overwhelming demand from YOU, our membership, Dueling Pianos Deuces Wild is back for the 2024 Chamber EDC’s Annual Dinner!

The EDC’s largest premier event is right around the corner, and we want you to join the celebration. The Annual Dinner is scheduled for Thursday, April 18th at the Bismarck Event Center.

This highly anticipated event is sure to impress!

We will hear of the Chamber EDC’s great success in 2023 and what we have to look forward to in 2024.

It’s never too early to mark your calendar and plan your evening out with us! To reserve a table please contact Emily Seebold at eseebold@ bmcedc.com or contact the Chamber EDC at 701-223-5660.

Presenting Sponsors:

The Chamber EDC Annual Dinner is April 18th.

BAR & GRILL

Connection 3 17

CHAMBER EDC NEWS

CHAMBER EDC BUILDING REMODEL NEAR COMPLETION If you haven't stopped by the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC recently, then you might not know that our entire building has been under renovation.

The Chamber EDC lobby before the remodel.

Internal demolition started on May 1st and it's been a steady seven of months of work within the building.

The entire inside work spaces were gutted out and completely re-envisioned to add more office spaces and meeting spaces.

The building also saw new paint, flooring, carpet, lighting and trim.

The remodeled building now includes three meeting spaces of different sizes for members to utilize. An office for each Chamber EDC employee with extra office spaces for potential staff growth. A private meeting space for Chamber EDC staff to meet and gather. A new and improved internal storage space for event materials. Plus, a rental space for a small business to set up shop in.

Feel free to stop by and check out our newly remodeled space! The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC is planning a ribbon cutting and Open House event later this year for the entire membership.

More details about that event to come in the near future.

The Chamber EDC lobby after the remodel.

18 4 Connection

CHAMBER EDC EVENTS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JAN

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: EIDE FORD LINCOLN

18

Date: Thursday, January 18 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Eide Ford Lincoln — 800 E Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck Admission: Free to Attend

JAN

CANDIDATE CAMPAIGN TRAINING

Come join fellow Chamber EDC members for the first mixer of the year at Eide Ford Lincoln!

24

Date: Wednesday, January 24 Time: 9:30am - 3:00pm Location: North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum - 612 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck Admission: $50 per Person

FEB

FOCUS ON BISMARCK-MANDAN

Thinking about running for public office or a local board? Learn first hand what you can expect on the campaign trail.

29

Date: Thursday, February 29 Check-In: 2:00pm - 2:30pm Event Time: 2:30pm - 4:30pm Social: 4:30pm - 6:00pm Location: University of Mary, Founders Hall — 7500 University Drive, Bismarck Admission: $60 for Chamber EDC members/ $125 for General Admission

MAR

MARCH MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BAIN AGENCY

Be in the know at this premiere event focusing on our local and country's economy.

14

Date: Thursday, March 14 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Bain Agency — 1500 E Capitol Ave, Bismarck Admission: Free to Attend

APR

CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER

Join fellow Chamber EDC members for an evening of networking, hosted at Bain Agency!

18

Date: Thursday, April 18 Check-In/Social: 5:30pm - 7:00pm Location: Bismarck Event Center, Hall B — 315 S 5th Street, Bismarck Admission: $75 for Chamber EDC members, $125 for General Admission

MAY

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN FIELD PROJECT PRESENTATIONS

Be a part of Bismarck-Mandan’s premier black-tie event where the Chamber EDC will celebrate our accomplishments of 2023!

8

Date: Wednesday, May 8 Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC — 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Admission: Free to Attend

MAY

MAY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: MCQUADE DISTRIBUTING

15

Date: Wednesday, May 15th Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: McQuade Distributing — 1150 Industrial Drive, Bismarck Admission: Free to Attend

MAY

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION

16

Event Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Come to the highly anticipated McQuade Membership Mixer and test the newest summer drinks!

Date: Thursday, May 16 Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Location: Chick's Place, University of Mary - 7500 University Drive, Bismarck Admission: $35 REGISTER FOR THESE EVENTS AND MANY MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BISMARCKMANDAN.COM

Connection 3 19

MEMBER NEWS

ESSENTIA HEALTH GIVES TO ABUSED ADULT RESOURCE CENTER

VALLELY SPORT & MARINE NAMED TO 2023 BOATING INDUSTRY TOP 100 LIST

Essentia Health recently donated $5,000 to the Abused Vallely Sport & marine of Bismarck and Minot, North DaAdult Resource Center to help address the needs of victims kota has been named one of the Top 100: Top Dealers in of domestic violence and sexual assault in the community.

North America by Boating Industry, the leading trade publication for the marine industry.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have received this donation from Essentia Health,” said Michelle Erickson, Executive The recreational boating industry’s elite members celeDirector. “Community partners are a vital part of our brated the 2023 Boating Industry Top 100 Awards during organization and we greatly appreciate the support from a black-tie gala on Nov. 7, 2023 on the final evening of the Essentia and the entire community.”

Boating Industry ELEVATE SUMMIT in Dallas, Texas.

Essentia Health now operates the Women’s Health Center at 1000 E Rosser Ave in Bismarck which offers a wide range of women’s health services including pregnancy care, fertility care, midwifery, gynecologic surgery and mammography.

Entering the 19th year of the Top 100 in 2023, the program honors the best of the best across the entire boating industry, celebrating the 40 Under 40, Women Making Waves and the Top Dealers across North America.

As a continuation of the original roots of the Top 100 program, Boating Industry honored the 2023 Top Dealers during the Top 100 Awards celebration.

“This year’s Top Dealers program continued to raise the bar with a variety of newcomers and returning dealers, and wide range of competition,” Boating Industry editor-in-chief and Top 100 program director Adam Quandt said. “The dealers on this year’s Boating Industry Top Dealers list continue to set the pace in sales, customer service and success overall, and certainly continue to provide an example for all dealers across the world.

MINI WELLNESS RETREAT FEBRUARY 17, 2024 IT’S YOUR TIME, CLAIM IT!

Enjoy an empowering, self growth presentation, a pole and hoop fitness class, massage therapy, hot tub spa therapy, a one-on-one consult with Krista, a Business/Life/and Health Coach and snacks!

EARLY RISE UP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! USE COUPON CODE MWR24172 (FEB 3, 2024 IS THE LAST DAY TO JOIN AT $200 OFF)

Scan the QR code for more information, fees, and details!

20 4 Connection

www.jezmirizing.com 701-389-0402

“Vallely Sport & Marine is proud to be the region’s Top 100 Dealership that has been chosen as a Top 100 Dealer for the last 16 years straight. We believe excellent customer service, our great employees, and continued innovation within our company are key pillars to our success and this award, Josh Vallely, Co-Owner of Vallely Sport & Marine said.

MEMBER NEWS

SIGNIFICANT DONATION TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY MOVES PLAN FORWARD FOR NEW ATHLETICS COMPLEX

Phase II of the University of Mary’s three-phase $272 million Vision 2030 Capital Campaign that launched in 2015 already got off to a tremendous start in February of 2022 following a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Phase I closed in January of 2019 by surpassing its goal with just over $100 million raised total. Phase II was launched with a $12 million gift from Harold Hamm and Continental Resources, and now through the generosity A rendering of the overall complex view to the South. of others who have come forward with a very significant and generous gift What the University of Mary is doing through this Vision allowing the University of Mary to move forward with plans 2030 Strategic Plan is significant and will not only help fosfor a new Athletics Complex on campus. ter the mission set forth by its founders — the Benedictine “In early November we received news about a transformative gift which was the answer to many, many prayers,” announced University of Mary President Monsignor James Shea in front of hundreds of excited faculty and staff recently inside a jam-packed Arno Gustin Hall on campus.

Shea later went on to add, “We are extremely grateful to these donors and to the many friends and benefactors of the University of Mary. Their generosity represents an unprecedented investment in our students, in the future of North Dakota, and in the great enterprise of Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine education for a new generation.”

Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff Jerome Richter, who also worked with the donors, says the timing of the gift was Providential.

“It was a very emotional and humbling moment when I got to share this with our Board of Trustees, because we had just gotten word of the gift moments before our meeting,” Richter explained to the university community during the campus-wide meeting. “God is very good to us. It is very humbling to speak of our successes. There are some wonderful people who believe in us and are excited about what we are doing.”

Sister of Annunciation Monastery — by meeting the needs of the people of this region and beyond, but also completely transform the campus.

Already, Phase I brought about a new 276-bed Roers Hall; a fieldhouse and wellness center; the Warford Grotto for students and the public to honor Mary through prayer; a new state-of-the-art Lumen Vitae University Center — the campus hub; a new Workforce Development Initiative that helps employers in this state attract new workers and provides an opportunity for them to retain and develop their employees; and the start of a new hands-on Hamm School of Engineering.

The beginning of Phase II of the Vision 2030 campaign had four pillars and helped establish the new Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences and complete the new Hamm School of Engineering. The final two pillars include plans for an all-new Athletics Complex just east of the fieldhouse that would run parallel with highway 1804 and a Welcome Center on south campus.

Connection 3 21

MEMBER NEWS

CLEARWATER COMMUNICATIONS UNVEILS NEW COMPANY LOGO

SANFORD HEALTH MOVING FORWARD ON SOUTHRIDGE CLINIC CONSTRUCTION

Clearwater Communica-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE tions, 4,a2023 local association December management firm founded Contact: in 2001, updated its Shannon Schutt,has President Clearwater Communications company logo after 22 701-355-4458 years and refreshed its sschutt@clearwatercommunications.net www.clearwatercommunications.net website, marking a signifi cant milestone in the company’s evolution.

Clearwater Communications Unveils New Company Logo

Bismarck, N.D. – Clearwaterlogo Communications, a local association management firm founded in The reimagined displays bright colors, a rounded 2001, has updated its company logo after 22 years and refreshed its website, marking a design, and incohesive feel.

The logo colors are blue and orsignificant milestone the company’s evolution. ange, and both are symbolic of what Clearwater CommuniThe reimagined logo displays bright colors, a rounded design, and cohesive feel. The logo colors cations strives its clientele.

Blue signifies trust, are blue and orange, and to bothprovide are symbolicto of what Clearwater Communications strives to provide to its clientele.

Blue signifies trust, loyalty, and responsibility, while orange is loyalty, and responsibility, while orange is representative of representative of positivity, strength, and creativity. positivity, strength, and creativity.

“The new design of Clearwater’s logo and the refresh of our website are reflective of our efforts to evolve to our valued clients’ needs as well as our continued commitment to quality and “The new design of Clearwater’s logo and the refresh of our consistent service,” said Clearwater Communications President Shannon Schutt. website are reflective of our efforts to evolve to our valued Clearwater provides management, commitment communication, and to qualclients’Communications needs as well asassociation our continued administrative services for a wide variety of nonprofit, business and government clients. ity and consistent service,” said Clearwater Communications Clearwater specializes in the areas of association management, communication, government relations, meeting and event planning, financial management, graphic design, strategic President Shannon Schutt. planning, and more.

###

Sanford Bismarck will begin construction of a new clinic in spring 2024. The Sanford Southridge Clinic will be located within the Southridge Centre at 549 S. Seventh St., across from Kirkwood Mall.

“We are excited to begin this project that has been years in the making,” said Todd Schaffer, M.D., president and CEO of Sanford Bismarck. “By expanding care for our ever-growing community, we can ensure that our patients are receiving more options and more access to care close to home.”

The Sanford Downtown Walk-In Clinic, currently located at 225 N. Seventh St. in Bismarck, will be the first to move within Sanford Southridge Clinic. The clinic will enhance walk-in services and offer more exam rooms, advanced imaging equipment and lab services on site. In the future, family medicine and specialty services will also be provided within the Sanford Southridge Clinic to enhance care for Bismarck-Mandan and the surrounding communities.

The project is expected to be completed in 2025.

22 4 Connection

MEMBER NEWS

BISMARCK AIRPORT ANNOUNCES ALLEGIANT AIR SERVICE TO ST. PETE/CLEARWATER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Bismarck Airport is pleased to announce that Allegiant Airlines will be adding a flight between Bismarck Airport and St. Pete/Clearwater International Airport (PIE) starting May 15, 2024. St. Pete/Clearwater International Airport is Allegiant's hub for the Tampa Bay Area. The new service to St. Pete/Clearwater will compliment Allegiant's existing service between Bismarck Airport and Las Vegas (LAS), Phoenix/Mesa (IWA) and Orlando/Sanford (SFB).

"Allegiant's announcement last week is excellent news for Bismarck and the surrounding region," said Bismarck Mayor Michael Schmitz. "The new service will add more options for travelers from across the region and continue to define Bismarck Airport as the premier airport and hub city for central and western of North Dakota".

Allegiant's new service to St. Pete/Clearwater Airport will provide Bismarck passengers with a convenient travel option to the Tampa Bay area.

The new service to St. Pete/Clearwater Airport will be flown twice a week, Wednesday and Saturday, with an Airbus A320 a 180-seat aircraft.

Greg Haug, Bismarck Airport Director, said that "the demand for leisure travel remains high in western and central North Dakota and this announcement is fantastic news for the region. The new service to the Tampa Bay area will give leisure travelers another great option when booking travel out of Bismarck Airport."

Bismarck Airport has had service to Orlando/Sanford since 2013 and the service has done very well. The new service to St. Pete/Clearwater Airport will give the region's travelers the opportunity to fly direct to the Tampa Bay area. The Tampa Bay area is an excellent get away year-round and the area is home to multiple beaches, themes parks, museums and professional sports teams. Tickets are available now at www.allegiantair.com.

Connection 3 23

ASK A PRO

SCOTT WIRTH at

NOAH FROHLICH at

LOLLY DUTTON at

1519 Continental Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-751-7400

200 E Main Ave, Ste 101, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-319-0402

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

Q: WHAT IS ROERS LOOKING FOR IN EMPLOYEE CANDIDATES TO JOIN YOUR TEAM?

Q: WHY ARE INFRARED SAUNAS THE ULTIMATE CHOICE FOR SELF-CARE ROUTINES?

Q:MY AUNT LIVES IN HETTINGER, ND, AND WILL BE STARTING RADIATION THERAPY TREATMENTS AT THE BISMARCK CANCER CENTER. WHAT ARE SOME OPTIONS FOR HER TO EASE THE BURDEN OF TRAVELING TO AND FROM HER DAILY TREATMENTS?

A: Roers is seeking candidates that prefer- A: Full spectrum, (far, mid, near) Infrared ably have some experience in construction and that are looking to grow and develop in their career with Roers.

The best construction-related candidates would have commercial construction experience in wood framing and structural steel, demolition of current space, concrete, installation of cabinets, doors, windows, and other finish carpentry tasks.

Roers offers a development program so that our employees are able to grow within the company and be a part of a successful and growing team in the Bismarck/Mandan area. We have grown our Bismarck/ Mandan based team by 200% in the past four years. Roers does also have offices and bases of operation in Fargo, Dickinson, and Minot.

24 4 Connection

Saunas offer a multitude of benefits that make them a valuable addition to any well-being routine. Firstly, they aid in detoxification by promoting sweating, which helps eliminate toxins from the body. They also provide pain relief by soothing muscles and joints, making them ideal for athletes or those with chronic pain conditions.

Improved circulation is another advantage, as the heat from the sauna helps dilate blood vessels, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, Additionally, infrared sauna promote relaxation and stress reduction, helping to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality. They can even aid in weight loss by increasing heart rate and calorie burn. With all these benefits, infrared saunas emerge as the ultimate choice for self-care.

NE Wellness offers the convenience of after-hours access appointments, during non-traditional working hours of 9-5. With a simple link sent to your phone, you are able to walk into your pre-heated, private oasis. Our saunas can be customized to operate at lower or higher temperatures, based on your preference, making them more comfortable for longer sessions.

Call today to schedule 701-319-0402.

A: The Bismarck Cancer Center Founda-

tion (BCCF) offers an array of services to help patients during their cancer journey.

One of the services provided is a fully furnished apartment within walking distance of the Bismarck Cancer Center. These are available to anyone undergoing radiation therapy for low rates ($20 a night) throughout their treatments. BCC has 22 apartment units and houses to accommodate individuals and their caregiver who must travel from out of town. Units are reserved through the Cancer Center once treatment dates are scheduled and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All units are furnished through donations and volunteer work. If being away from home is not an option, BCCF provides several forms of transportation assistance including gas cards, transit coupons, and taxi vouchers.

The Foundation is committed to providing hope, help, and healing that goes beyond radiation therapy treatments. Visit with the BCC staff at 222-6100 for more information on BCCF’s lodging and transportation assistance.

ASK A PRO

JUSTIN HUGHES at

TIFFANY ECKROTH at

NICK JOHNSON at

1133 College Drive, #1000, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-221-8700

811 E Interstate Ave, Ste B, Bismarck, ND 58503 2300 Clydesdale Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-409-0488 701-258-5755

Q: WHAT IS THE CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT AND WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?

Q: HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY MARKETING FOR 2024?

Q: IS VERIZON BUSINESS INTERNET WORTH IT?

A: We've got a little secret that can make

A: Having reliable and fast internet for

A: In 2021, Congress passed the Corpo-

rate Transparency Act, which takes effect January 1, 2024. The purpose of the Act is to provide greater entity transparency to combat crime facilitated through United States-created entities or foreign entities.

The Act requires a “Company Applicant” to report to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network information regarding an entity’s “Beneficial Owner(s)” – those that exercise substantial control over an entity or own or control more than 25% of an entity.

The Act will create new challenges and compliance requirements for many businesses in myriad industries. Subject to certain exceptions, “Reporting Companies” subject to the Act include any companies that were or will be created by filing organizational or incorporation documents with any secretary of state or similar governmental authority. Additionally, without realizing it, one may be considered a “Company Applicant”, with the responsibility to file reports under the Act, because the definition includes those who file the initial organizational or incorporation documents. Failure to file the required reports can lead to civil and criminal penalties, including fines up to $10,000.00 or imprisonment. If you have questions regarding the CTA’s applicability to your company or regarding compliance you should contact an experienced attorney.

your efforts go a long way - and it's all about extending the life of your content.

Imagine this: you've poured your heart and soul into crafting something extraordinary – a podcast, video, an article, or captivating graphics. Now picture it having only a brief moment to shine through a single social post. Sadly, many people overlook the power of repurposing content, leaving its full potential untapped. Rather than constantly reinventing the wheel, shifting your focus towards repurposed content can save you time and money.

Got a podcast? Pull images, video clips, and catchy quotes from each episode – they’re perfect for social media! Wrote an epic blog post or article? Sprinkle that link across your organic posts and nestle it into other relevant corners of your website.

Remember, it's not just content; it's a goldmine waiting to be uncovered.

your business is incredibly important. Staying connected to your customers, vendors, employees, and equipment is so important to the well-being of your daily work.

Verizon Business Internet is the fastest and most reliable internet for small to medium-sized businesses. It simplifies your bills in that your internet will bill with your existing Verizon services and devices. You'll have dedicated local business representatives in the area to help with troubleshooting and support. For just $69 a month, you can have the best coverage on the best network with none of the interruptions or price hikes you might have today. I would recommend Verizon's Business Internet to any small to medium-sized business in the Bismarck Mandan area.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg! If you want to take your marketing to the next level, we’d love to chat over coffee. Send us an email at info@hexahive.co!

Connection 3 25

MEMBER PERKS KRAUS-ANDERSON’S KEVIN MAGSTADT ELECTED BOARD CHAIR OF SANFORD HEALTH FOUNDATION BISMARCK Kevin Magstadt, Kevin Magstadt director of business development for KrausAnderson Construction (KA), has been elected to chair of the board of the Sanford Health Foundation Bismarck.

Magstadt is a highly regarded business leader in the greater North Dakota region with more than 43 years of client, community and government relations experience.

Magstadt is on the Greater North Dakota Chamber of Commerce board of directors and Bismarck State College Foundation board of trustees. He is vice chair of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce Local Issues Committee and served on its board and as chair of its Economic Development Committee. Magstadt also served as board chair of the BismarckMandan Development Association, past president of the board of the North Dakota Solid Waste and Recycling Association, and the Economic Development Association of North Dakota. He also was a member of the Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority board, Bismarck Mayor’s CORE Committee and Burleigh County Planning and Zoning Commission. Magstadt earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada-Reno and masters’ degree from the University of Mary, Bismarck.

CEDRIC THEEL TOYOTA WELCOMES NEW SERVICE ADVISOR Cedric Theel Toyota recently welcomed Jon Eide to the Service Team as a Service Advisor.

Jon Eide Jon works as a liaison between the service technicians and service customers helping with warranty questions, answering other questions, and scheduling guests’ maintenance needs.

Jon grew up in Bismarck and previously to joining Cedric Theel Toyota, he worked for an archery distributer. Jon has three children and enjoys traveling with his family. He traveled to Africa last year with his daughter to go on an exotic hunt. A fun fact about Jon is that he is a guitar player and plays local gigs with Jesse Fay.

26 4 Connection

LEE JOINS KLJ’S BISMARCK OFFICE KLJ Engineering LLC (KLJ), is proud to welcome Frankie Lee to their Bismarck office.

Lee serves as a Senior Frankie Lee Project Manager within KLJ’s Municipal team.

He has more than 27 years of experience working in tribal relations, consulting, construction and project management, and field operations. Lee has extensive knowledge working with right-of-way (ROW), environmental remediation, and oil and gas projects. He also has longstanding relationships with multiple stakeholders including the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR), United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Departments of Transportation (DOT), Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and various other organizations.

Additionally, Lee is a licensed professional engineer (PE) and earned a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

RICHTER RECEIVES CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER CERTIFICATION Tyler M. Richter, CFP®, BFA™, APMA® a financial advisor with Legacy Tyler M. Richter Financial Partners, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Bismarck recently obtained the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM certification. Richter successfully completed the rigorous requirements that include course work and a series of examinations covering financial planning, risk management, investments, tax planning and management, retirement and employee benefits, and estate planning.

Individuals with the CFP® certification agree to meet ongoing continuing education requirements and uphold the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct developed by the Certified Financial Planning Board of Standards, Inc. Ameriprise Financial is a longstanding leader in financial planning and advice.

Richter graduated from University of Saint Thomas with a degree in Finance and Financial Management Services. He has seven years of experience in the financial services industry.

KLJ PROMOTES EMILY JOHNSON TO CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER KLJ Engineering LLC (KLJ), is pleased to announce Emily Johnson has been promoted to Emily Johnson Chief People Officer (CPO). “This is a new and exciting position for KLJ. In this role, Emily will help align key areas inside the company that share synergies.

This alignment aims to create a holistic approach in supporting the company’s pursuit for enhanced growth and impact, both among our employees and in the communities in which we work and serve,” said Chief Executive Officer, Eric Michel.

Johnson, who is located in KLJ’s Bismarck office, has been with KLJ for nearly 14 years, holding various leadership roles related to communications, marketing, and engagement. Most recently serving as senior vice president of Communications and Engagement – a role that oversaw the Company’s Marketing and Communications team. As CPO, she will be responsible for KLJ’s Human Resources/ Talent Acquisition Teams which includes key areas of employee relations, benefits, training, and development, in addition to continuing oversight of the company’s Marketing and Communications efforts.

Johnson earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and an MBA certificate in HR Management. Additionally, she earned her SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification. She is passionate about connecting people through communication and engagement.

BIANCO REALTY SALES AWARDS Bianco Realty has announced their top 10 REALTORS® for November: Shirley Thomas, Amber Sandness, Judy Maslowski, Greg Gerhart, Lisa Young Bear, Nate Seifert, Duane Bentz, Brenda Foster, Jim Jeromchek & James Jeromchek. These 10 REALTORS® had the highest sales totals at Bianco Realty November 2023.

MEMBER PERKS NDIRF’S VERKE RECEIVES NDTOA EXCELLENCE AWARD The North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund (NDIRF) is proud to announce Member Mark Verke Services Representative Mark Verke was awarded the North Dakota Township Officers Association’s (NDTOA) Excellence Award during its 2023 Annual Meeting and Convention held Dec. 4-5, 2023, in Bismarck. The award recognizes Verke for his dedicated service to North Dakota’s townships and continued commitment to providing them with information and education.

Verke has led the NDIRF’s risk services efforts for many North Dakota townships covered by the NDIRF, and he has served as the primary point of contact for the organization’s partnership with the North Dakota Local Technical Assistant Program (NDLTAP). Through this partnership, the NDIRF has supported road safety maintenance, operations, and signing in communities across the state.

HOERAUF RETIRES FROM CAREER ACADEMY The past 40 years Dale Hoerauf has dedicated his professional life to Bismarck Public Schools. Dale is considered by many to be the “Godfather of CTE for ND” – a “title” rightfully earned and bestowed upon him by his peers across the state. The Career Academy is happy to congratulate Dale as he retires at the end of this year and embarks on the next chapters of his journey toward “Living the Dream.” Dale has made the dream of a Career Academy a reality here in Bismarck as well as paved the way for others across the state. He is quick to lift others forward, and yet his leadership has been critical to building and the expansion of the Career Academy, CTE programming, and the integration of EmpowerED as we as a district stove to ensure that Bismarck Students were #1 College, Community, and CAREER Ready and are working to “Empower Every Learner to Thrive!”

KRAUS-ANDERSON WELCOMES NEW PROJECT SUPERINTENDENT KrausAnderson recently hired Walter Duff as a Walter Duff project superintendent.

He previously was a construction sub-contractor, managing on-site construction projects and interior finishing. Duff received his B.S in Construction Management at Minnesota State University-Moorhead.

JANUARY LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

Provided on Government Access cable channels 2 & 602HD FreeTV.org, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV

Tues, 2nd 4:00 pm Bismarck-Burleigh Commissions Cmte.

5:30 pm Mandan City Commission * Wed, 3rd

5:00 pm

Burleigh County Commission *

Thurs, 4th

5:00 pm

Bismarck Board of Adjustment

Mon, 8th

5:15 pm 5:30 pm

Bismarck School Board Mandan Park District Board

Tues, 9th

5:15 pm

Bismarck City Commission *

Wed, 10th

8:00 am 5:15 pm

Burleigh Water Resource District Burleigh Planning & Zoning *

Thurs,11th

9:00 am 4:00 pm

Bismarck Parking Authority Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority

Tues, 16th 10:00 am Met. Planning Org. – Tech Advisory Cmte.

1:30 pm Met. Planning Org. – Policy Board

5:00 pm Mandan City Commission *

7:00 pm Mandan School Board Wed, 17th

Thurs, 18th

3:00 pm 5:00 pm

Bismarck Historic Preservation Burleigh County Commission *

5:15 pm

Bismarck Park District Board

Mon, 22nd

5:15 pm 5:30 pm

Bismarck School Board Mandan Planning & Zoning

Tues, 23rd

Wed, 24th

5:15 pm

Bismarck City Commission *

5:00 pm

Bismarck Planning & Zoning *

Meetings are replayed on Government Access channels & are archived online at FreeTV.org * Also available on Radio Access 102.5FM and RadioAccess.org

Connection 3 27

RIBBON CUTTINGS Ribbon cuttings are conducted by a committee of Chamber EDC volunteers called Ambassadors.

Businesses qualify for a ribbon cutting if they open, move, and remodel, are under new ownership, change their name, or offer a new product or service. To find out how you can get a free ribbon cutting from the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC, please call Rachel or Lyndsey at 701-223-5660.

THE LOCKER ROOM The Locker Room celebrating the Grand Opening of their new location inside the Kirkwood Mall in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-751-1040.

GNC GNC celebrating the grand opening of their new location inside the Kirkwood Mall in Bismarck. Phone: 701-224-0572.

SCOOTER'S COFFEE

HAVEN HILLS FOSTER CARE COMMUNITY

Scooter's Coffee celebrates the Grand Opening of their new location on 433 E Expressway in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-226-2322. Member.

Haven Hills Foster Care Community celebrates the Grand Opening of their location on 14065 34th Street NW in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-200-7681. Member.

LEGACY FINANCIAL PARTNERS

1806 & CO.

Legacy Financial Partners celebrates the Grand Opening of their new location on 125 Buckskin Ave. in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-258-9735.

28 4 Connection

1806 & Co. celebrates the Grand Opening of their location on 503 East Main Street, Ste 4 in Mandan.

Phone: 605-848-1311. Member.

NEW MEMBERS The Chamber EDC encourages all members to do business with each other. The following companies and organizations have recently made an important investment in their business by joining the Chamber EDC. Please consider them for your professional and personal needs. To find a complete listing of Chamber EDC members, view the Member Directory online at www.bismarckmandan.com.

Sherwin-Williams Co. - North 1500 E Century Ave Bismarck, ND 58503 (701) 223-3882 Mike Wood Sherwin-Williams Co. - South 3010 Rock Island Place Bismarck, ND 58504 Weston Haugen Studio 180 Dance Company 228 W Front Ave Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 220-2399 Samantha McGrath Non-profit dance studio; providing various forms of recreational and competitive dance at affordable prices for ages 3-18.

The Wellness Way - Bismarck 1929 N Washington Street, Ste N Bismarck, ND 58501 (701) 751-0572 Hunter Puetz The Wellness Way is a Health Restoration Clinic. We are a chiropractic office that offers chiropractic care, diagnostic lab testing, and individualized wellness and nutrition plans.

Jez-Mir-Izing Retreat Center 1910 80th Street SE Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 389-0402 Krista Schafer Health and Wellness Tower Hill Management LLC 107 1st Ave NW Mandan, ND 58554 (701) 551-4389 Michael Sanders Tower Hill Management provides expertise in all areas of property management, including leasing, marketing, financial reporting, maintenance and construction management.

Hometown Credit Union 109 N McDougall Drive, Ste 5 (701) 751-1613 Logan Schumacher Hometown Credit Union is a financial cooperative which is owned and operated for its members. We strive to provide the best possible financial services to meet member's needs.

Wegner Roofing & Solar 537 Airport Rd Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 210-0369 Red Causey Roofing & Solar Contractors Bisman Dent 2410 Lockheed Drive, Unit 1 Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 581-3515 Ken Laukhuff Automotive Paintless Dent Repair Services, Auto Hail Damage Repair.

STEP Wellness 1701 S 12th Street Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 220-0479 Julie Landsiedel Family Nurse Practitioner with Holistic approach to health.

Connection 3 29

ANNIVERSARIES

JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES Service All Brands!

WE INSTALL AND/OR SERVICE: • Boilers • Furnaces • Air Conditioners • Water Heaters • Heat Pumps

• Air Filtration Systems • Garage Heaters • Humidifiers • Zoning Systems • Ductwork

* 60 MONTHS INTEREST FREE FINANCING * When Available to Qualified Buyers on Qualified Products

Ask About Rebates!

We Sell Water Heaters!

701.223.2338 913 S 18th Street, Bismarck www.bismarckheating.com facebook.com/bismarckheating

75 YEARS Auto Value - Bismarck Bain Agency Bank of North Dakota Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge 1199 CHI St. Alexius Health MDU Resources Group, Inc. U.S. Bank 65 YEARS Crowley Fleck PLLP Mandan Plumbing & Heating Inc. McQuade Distributing Co., Inc. Pepsi Beverages Company Sanford Bismarck SuperValu Inc, Bismarck Distribution Center Starion Bank - Mandan 60 YEARS EMC Insurance The Title Team 55 YEARS United Printing 35 YEARS Lady J's Catering, Inc. 25 YEARS Bismarck-Mandan Young Professionals Network, Dakota Carrier Network, Dakota West Contracting, Inc. 20 YEARS Padgett Business Services 15 YEARS Carden Custom Framing, TransTrash 10 YEARS Bis-Man Eyecare Associates - Mandan, Bis-Man Eyecare Associates - North Bismarck, Bis-Man Eyecare Associates South Bismarck, BIG RIG 105.9 FM, Profile 5 YEARS Morgan Stanley 1 YEAR Bismarck Air Medical, Cornerstone Caregiving LLC , Evolve Human Resource Consulting, LLC, Fur and Feathers Pet Care LLC, Pure Barre Bismarck, Servpro, The Innovation Barn, Vend ND

5 Years “No Interest” Financing* • 10 Years Parts & Labor Warranty* • 24-7 Service*

30 4 Connection

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

ANNIVERSARIES

Connection 3 31

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Connection 1640 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck, ND 58503

UPCOMING CHAMBER EDC EVENTS JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: EIDE FORD LINCOLN Date: Thursday, January 18, 2024 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Eide Ford Lincoln – 800 E Bismarck Expy, Bismarck CANDIDATE TRAINING Date: Wednesday, January 24, 2024 Time: 9:30am - 3:00pm Location: ND Heritage Center – 612 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck FOCUS ON BISMARCK-MANDAN Date: Thursday, February 29, 2024 Check-in: 2:00pm • Event Time: 2:30pm - 4:30pm • Social: 4:30pm - 6:00pm Location: University of Mary, Founders Hall – 7500 University Drive, Bismarck MARCH MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BAIN AGENCY Date: Thursday, March 14, 2024 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Bain Agency – 1500 E Capitol Ave, Bismarck CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER Date: Thursday, April 18, 2024 Check-in/ Social: 5:30pm - 7:00pm • Event Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm Location: Bismarck Event Center, Hall B (Door E42) – 315 S 5th Street, Bismarck

bek.news

Weekdays at 7:00 AM CT