February Connection

Connection FEBRUARY 2022

WWW.BISMARCKMANDAN.COM

AGRICULTURE IN BISMARCK-MANDAN

A BUSINESS PUBLICATION OF THE BISMARCK MANDAN CHAMBER EDC

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Kevin Strege ...................................................................... Chair Wendy Van Duyne .......................................................Vice-Chair Matt Sagaser ................................................................Secretary Mike Schmitz ................................................................Treasurer Valerie Weigel ............................................................ Past Chair

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Evan Anderson ...........................................................Gizmonics Steve Bakken ......................................................City of Bismarck Andrea Birst ...............................................Glance Spa & Salon Nathan Boehm ....................................................Morton County Dave Ehlis ..............................................................Bravera Bank Fred Fridley .........................................................Sanford Health Amber Larson......................................................City of Mandan Becky Matthews ................................................Burleigh County Allan Miller ............................................................Anyleaks, Inc. Dr. Sara Weigel Ness ..............................Active Life Chiropractic Lee Pierce .........................................................ICON Architects Marnie Piehl .......................................................................AARP Mike Remboldt ................................................................HIT Inc. Matt Sagaser ......................................................Doosan Bobcat Mike Schmitz ......................................Schmitz-Holmstrom CPAs Garret Senger ...............................Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. Kevin Strege ................................................Credit Foundations Wendy Van Duyne .....................Stantec Consulting Services Inc. Valerie Weigel .......................Basin Electric Power Cooperative

CHAMBER EDC STAFF

Brian Ritter .......................................................President & CEO Nate Brown......................................................Sales Coordinator Aasta Eggert .......Economic Development Marketing Specialist Ross Frohlich ............................................Membership Director Mary Kempenich........................Workforce Marketing Specialist Christine Nelson ....................................Event & Sales Manager Rebecca Pelkey .................................Communications Specialist Elliot Rust ................................................Chief Financial Officer Lyndsey Scheurer .........................Creative Marketing Specialist Nathan Schneider ................................................Vice President Josie Smyle ..................................................Events Coordinator Cathryn Sprynczynatyk .....................Communications Specialist 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-223-5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com

CONTACT INFORMATION Content Rebecca Pelkey rpelkey@bmcedc.com

Advertising Nate Brown nbrown@bmcedc.com

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CONNECTION | CHAIR'S CORNER

his month’s edition of the Connection focuses on Agriculture, a key economic driver for the state and for Bismarck-Mandan. While we have successfully diversified our economy over the past 30+ years, we must not forget there are certain industries & segments that are critical keystones in our economic foundation and a continued focus in those areas is necessary to maintain our momentum.

However, while agriculture is examined here in the Connection, energy is the focus of a task force of the Chamber EDC’s (CEDC) Economic Development Committee. 2021’s news of potential changes and challenges at Coal Creek Station, now clarified to be a purchase of the plant by Rainbow Energy, started a discussion that led us to reexamine our role in the State’s energy industry. Bismarck-Mandan benefits from both direct and indirect jobs based in our community as well as the broader economic impact of the industry. In order to sustain the energy industry as a key economic contributor, it is in our best interest to keep a focus on its opportunities and challenges.

As such, our Economic Development Committee formed a subcommittee to explore ways we as a business community can support the industry and what we can do to be prepared for upcoming changes and challenges. The CEDC is working with leadership from various segments of the energy industry to do just that, which fits well with our upcoming economic development strategic planning process. Our role here is to advocate for a smooth path towards industry growth and to be prepared for challenges that could slow our economic trajectory.

Another challenge to future growth most commonly cited by our members is the availability of workforce and as such, our ongoing talent attraction program remains a high priority. We are continuing programs that have shown success, fine tuning approaches and exploring new & innovative strategies that can enhance our ability to attract and retain workers to fill the need demonstrated across almost every industry in our community. We believe that the path we are on and the enhancements that will come through the upcoming planning process will position us well to further the solid and growing economy that has fueled so many good things for the community in recent years.

Those of you on the CEDC Board and/or committees hear about these topics and the organization’s related efforts on a regular basis. While they’re extremely important activities, because they are routine we don’t always take time to make them “newsworthy” for those who are not attending the meetings. Know that your organization, the CEDC, is putting in the effort it takes to be successful, innovative and everything else needed to take us to the next level. We will continue to provide information to you, our members, so you are aware of and can contribute to these efforts as they progress.

Kevin Strege, Chair Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

twitter.com/bismancedc facebook.com/bismancedc @bismancedc

Cover Photo Credit: North Dakota Stockmen’s Association

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FEATURE | CONNECTION

THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF AGRICULTURE

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Did you know the single largest colt sale in the United States is in Mandan? Each fall Kist Livestock Auction hosts the semi-annual HermansonKist all-breed horse sale.

Buyers and sellers come from almost every state in the nation. The American Quarter Horse Association sends representatives from Texas so that when cash is paid for a horse, the lineage papers can be transferred on site. Not only are the visitors buying and selling horses at Kist Livestock, they are spending money on food, lodging, goods, and services in Bismarck-Mandan.

Farmers and ranchers travel near and far to buy and sell their cattle at Kist Livestock Auction, often times staying the night and spending their hard earn dollars in Bismarck-Mandan.

In 2019, North Dakota generated $7.6 billion in agricultural cash receipts, according to the University of Arkansas System, which tracks the economic impact of agriculture in all 50 states.

“That money is what gets pushed back out to the area,” said Matt Lachenmeier, Marketing Representative for Kist Livestock Auction. “There is roughly that much money available to be spent.”

Kist Livestock is one example of the economic impact that agriculture makes on Bismarck-Mandan. Last year, 183,000 cattle were sold through the Kist Livestock sale barn. The sale barn generated $182 million through auctions.

Kist Livestock draws customers from roughly a100mile radius around Mandan. When they get cattle from Sheyenne country around Jamestown, Lachenmeier said people will send their cattle and stay overnight.

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CONNECTION | FEATURE “When we get estate sales, the guys are here for three days,” Lachenmeier said. “They are staying in hotels. They are eating.

They’re here for at least two nights.”

Kist Livestock moved to their current location on Memorial Highway in 1956 where they owned a majority of the property along Memorial Highway.

Lachenmeier said Kist Livestock Auction played a huge role in the development of Mandan’s commercial district along Memorial Highway, known as “the strip.” When the Kist family built their current location in 1956, there was nothing else around it. Lachenmeier said the Kist family owned almost all of the property along “the strip.” Over the decades, property was sold off, and the businesses that were built catered to the agriculture industry — little tractor shops, massive implement dealerships, four-wheelers, veterinary supplies.

“Kist Livestock was a big part of what developed ‘the strip,’” Lachenmeier said.

Photo Credit: Kist Livestock Auction Photo Credit: City of Mandan

Kist Livestock has sold much of the property they owned in the past, which has led to the development of Memorial Highway into what it is today.

Lachenmeier said a lot of the money generated through livestock sales gets spent in Mandan and Bismarck.

“If you come from 120 miles out, you don’t go to town every single week,” Lachenmeier said. “When you give somebody of check, they know how much money they are going to have. A lot of people bank through (BismarckMandan). Farmers and ranchers, they like to sit face-to-face with their banker.”

Jeff Blees is one of those bankers sitting face-to-face with farmers and ranchers. Blees is Vice President for Dakota Community Bank & Trust. He said they work with farm and ranch operations from $250,000 to $2.5 million in gross income.

“For every farmer and rancher who walks thru the door of your business,” Blees said, “they have the spending power of five to 50 people who live and work in the community.”

Blees gave the example of buying tires. When a residential person walks into a tire store, they represent the ability to buy eight tires. There are probably two vehicles per household. It goes up to 10 or 12 tires if they have an RV as well. That person walking in the tire store represents eight to 12 tires. When a farmer or rancher walks into the store, the average number of tires on a minimal sized farm or ranch is 125-150 tires on all of their equipment and vehicles. Certainly the larger operations will go above 200, but a typical farm or ranch, “just the average guy,” needs 125-150 tires on one operation.

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FEATURE | CONNECTION Blees said they work with farm and ranch customers from a 180-200 mile radius around Bismarck-Mandan. Some farmers and ranchers in small towns want more privacy with their financials, so they are willing to drive farther away to talk about their balance sheet, to talk about lending, to talk about their dreams for acquisition.

RDO Equipment was founded in 1968 by farmer Ron D. Offutt in the Fargo area.

Today, RDO Equipment has over 80 stores in 10 states.

“We’ve got customers that drive 200 miles to come borrow from us,” Blees said.

Blees also credits the fact that we have the state capital and are a medical hub.

“Many of these farmers and ranchers are accustomed to traveling 100-200 miles to receive all the services they need,” Blees said. “There is a tremendous outreach that the Bismarck-Mandan economy is the recipient of.”

Blees said that the business community cannot take for granted that farmers and ranchers will always come to Bismarck-Mandan.

“We have entered a global world,” Blees said. “Farmers and ranchers are probably more technologically savvy and advanced, just because of need — the technology in the combines, in the balers, in the sprayers they are using to put down chemicals. Autonomy is entering into their world.

They are testing driverless tractors, driverless grain carts to shuttle it to the truck at the edge of the field.”

Like many consumers, farmers and ranchers can jump on the internet to buy what they need, and Blees said it’s easy to order agriculture products from Canada. However, Blees also said farmers and ranchers are extremely loyal customers when a good relationship is established.

“Agriculture is one of the major lifebloods in the economy of Bismarck-Mandan,” said Derek Shaffer, General Manager for RDO Equipment.

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RDO Equipment is an implement dealer. They also service equipment 24/7 and offer rentals. Shaffer said RDO Equipment is one of four implement dealers in the Bismarck-Mandan area.

“When they are here in town — with how many miles they drive to get here — they are not just stopping at RDO,” Shaffer said. “They are shopping somewhere else, and they are stopping somewhere to eat. There are a lot of dollars spent.

“I don’t think people really realize how much money is spent in Bismarck-Mandan from the agriculture sector. It’s a lot of money. It definitely helped to build this community and helps it continue to grow.”

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FEATURE | CONNECTION

AGRICULTURE OUTLOOK 2022

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Farmers and ranchers have a faced a variety of challenges in recent years, but there is optimism heading into 2022.

CROPS

It has been rough for farmers going back to 2016 according to Shannon Berndt. Berndt is the Executive Director of the Northern Pulse Growers Association, which represents dry pea, lentil, chickpea, lupin, and fava bean growers. First, there were tariffs and international trade wars. Then, came COVID-19 and supply-chain issues. Now, the drought has hit farmers hard.

However, with late season rains in 2021 followed by snow this winter, Berndt said she is starting to hear optimism from producers.

“It’s a good thing farmers are a resilient bunch,” Berndt said. “They have had significant challenges.”

Berndt said pulse crops are increasingly used as an ingredient rather than a whole food. Lentils can be used in soups, stews, and other recipes as an addition to the meat already in the recipe.

“The vast majority (of pulse crops) are exported,” Berndt said. “During COVID we saw a greater need from food banks and soup kitchens. USDA purchased pulse crops to benefit those organizations. They also make them available in food nutrition programs as well. It is shelf-stable. It is cost effective. It is versatile.”

North Dakota pulse growers have benefitted from the recent trends in plant-based protein such as Beyond Meat and plant-based milks.

“Sometimes you hear conversations about plant-based versus meat-based proteins,” Berndt said. “Our industry is made up of farmers and ranchers, and the agriculture industry as a whole supports each other. As a rotational crop we need the support of all farmers and ranchers.

In years past we have promoted feeding pulse crops to livestock as well. It’s a good source of protein for livestock.”

Berndt said the trend of plant-based protein has actually benefitted other industries as well.

“By combining pulse ingredients with beef or pork, you’re really adding more protein to your diet in a very simple way,” Berndt said. “Pulses can easily be added to familiar recipes and they pair together to create a healthy meal.”

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Photo Credit: Source: North Dakota Stockmen’s Photo Credit: Photo Credit: North Dakota Dept. ofAssociation Agriculture

CONNECTION | FEATURE

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Ranchers have experienced some of the same challenges as farmers according to Jeff Schafer. Schafer is the owner of Rhein Valley Farms and the current President of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association. Untimely rains in recent years meant some farms and ranches went from flooded fields to drought.

“We went from 40 percent of tillable acres when we couldn’t get it into the ground to this drought,” Schafer said. “The pendulum swung 180 degrees.”

In some parts of the state the grass didn’t turn green, and ranchers had to use feed reserves. Other ranchers had to sell off cattle because of the drought.

“My dad used to say, ‘You and I both love steak, but we survive on hot dish,’” Schafer said. “The cows are definitely on a ‘hot dish diet’ right now.”

COVID-19 impacted meat packing plants early on.

"Like so many places, the pandemic created serious supply-chain disruptions in processing plants that negatively impacted cattle producers and consumers alike," Schafer said. "We heard many reports of cattlemen and women who had loads of cattle ready to harvest, but nowhere for them to go because of the bottleneck."

However, desperation breeds innovation. The pandemic spurred many livestock producers to begin direct-to-consumer marketing and encouraged smaller in-state processing facilities to emerge, expand, and diversify the marketplace, he explained, which has been a positive outcome for the industry.

While consumers might be seeing high meat prices at the grocery store, those profits don’t necessarily trickle down to the ranchers.

“You see beef high-priced, but the farmer or rancher isn’t getting that,” said Jeff Blees, Vice President for Dakota Community Bank & Trust. “An animal produces 500 lbs. of consumable red meat. That steer might generate $4,000 in the consumer pocket, but that rancher is getting between $1,000 to 1,500.”

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The high prices are due to the meat packing and processing cost.

The international trade market is looking good for cattle ranchers right now.

“Beef exports are phenomenal right now,” Schafer said. “Beef exports were up 21 percent in 2021. The export market has been great. We rely heavily on that.

It adds over $400 of value per calf for harvest fed calf.”

Japan is a top destination for North Dakota beef exports, followed by South Korea and China.

“We like that they like our beef,” Schafer said.

Overall, Schafer said the future looks bright in 2022.

“Everyone is cautiously optimistic,” Schafer said. “In general, prices look to be steady to stronger.”

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MEMBER PROFILE | CONNECTION

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CONNECTION | MEMBER PROFILE

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MEMBER PROFILE | CONNECTION Beyond the Blooms has been a Chamber EDC member since 2019.

Melanie Lennie BEYOND THE BLOOMS Tell us about yourself and your role within your business.

A: I am the owner of Beyond the Blooms. I started working in the floral industry over 30 years ago. I love seeing the smile on someones face when they are surprised by a fun arrangement, help a bride see her wedding flower dreams come to life, or help a family with the memorials for their loved ones.

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MEMBER SINCE 2019 Briefly tell us the history behind Beyond the Blooms and how you got started.

A: Beyond the Blooms became a reality as our family business when the flower shop I was working for closed.

As we live in Mandan it was the obvious choice for us to open a new flower shop there. We wanted to support our community and another family, locally owned business in town was our way to do that.

CONNECTION | MEMBER PROFILE How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted Beyond the Blooms?

A: We are seeing more people coming into the store, or finding us on social media. Our "slow" times are not near as slow anymore. It's great to see people out and about.

Even if they come in just to visit.

What trends are taking place in your industry?

A: We are seeing more earthy trends. Green plants, succulents. a combo of plants and fresh flowers. All in earthy tones. Plus lots of sustainable containers and recycled materials, Have there been any monumental changes within your industry that you’ve had to deal with?

A: With the Pandemic happening the last couple of years, it has had a great impact on our industry as a whole. Growers and flower farms were shut down, along with most of our gift, vase and container suppliers.

We struggle to get certain flower varieties, plants, and general supplies. Then we have all the shipping delays.

All of which contributes to the large price increases we've seen this year.

What does the future of Beyond the Blooms look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: As a fairly new business, we are seeing a steady growth increase in our business. Our industry is holding strong, even with all our delays in getting products. We always seem to make it work. One thing we have found is that people send flowers when they can't get together with their loved ones.

Beyond the Blooms became a member in 2019, why do you continue to renew?

A: It's a great way to make contacts with local businesses.

We are always trying to support locally owned businesses and the Chamber EDC is a great way to meet.

What should other Chamber EDC members know about Beyond the Blooms that may assist them?

A: We are not just a flower shop. We do all kinds of workshops and classes for team building, bridal showers, birthdays, 4-H groups, and just for fun. People can bring us an idea for a project, and we will set up all the details.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

TALENT ATTRACTION CAMPAIGN SEES SUCCESS

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OF THE MONTH: PRIDE OF DAKOTA

The Holiday Season is full of reunions, and the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC in partnership with KK Bold took advantage of the opportunity to pull on some heartstrings and encourage former city residents to come home.

Our Talent Attraction Campaign, run through several platforms, including Facebook and YouTube, took a fresh approach to trying to fill our workforce needs. Instead of appealing to people who only knew about North Dakota from their middle school geography class, we asked former residents to “Make Their Hometown Home Again.”

Bringing attention to our flourishing downtown spaces, our lively outdoor recreation opportunities, and so much more, the ads were designed to touch on nostalgia and invite former residents to see what is new in the place they grew up. Targeting people who have moved to Chicago, Seattle, and other major cities filled with BisMan ex-pats, while also advertising to those who came home for the holidays, we saw a huge increase in our website traffic- a good sign that those heartstrings were thoroughly pulled. The message was clear: no matter where you go, Bismarck-Mandan is always home.

Pride of Dakota was launched in 1985 with the intent of promoting North Dakota businesses and products by creating an identifiable state brand that would designate products as “made in North Dakota.” Launched with about 20 companies as members, today, more than 500 companies – ranging in size from large companies with more than 100 employees to “mom-and-pop” operations – participate in the program. Pride of Dakota's goal is to provide local business owners the business development resources and marketing opportunities they need to be successful.

Our members include food companies, manufacturers, publishers, artisans, gift manufacturers and service providers. We also have associate members, commodity groups, government agencies, educational institutions and retailers that support the program.

Membership benefits include access to grants, vendor and promotional opportunities, development assistance, Pride of Dakota logo usage permission, educational opportunities, access to important business contacts, listings on the Pride of Dakota website, social networks and printed directory, and much more.

To learn more about this exciting program and its members, visit the Pride of Dakota website.

DECEMBER 2021 ECONOMIC INDICATORS Sales Tax Collected $2,395,402

Airport Passengers 37,061

ECONOMY

Month-over-month increase

Residential Building Permits 8

Residential Permit Valuation $2,381,163

Month-over-month decrease

See the full list of economic indicators on the Chamber EDC’s Economy at a Glance at www.bismarckmandanedc.com.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

CHAMBER EDC EXHIBITS AT EPIC Chamber EDC staff were exhibitors at Bismarck State College’s Energy Progress and Innovation Conference (EPIC) at the end of January. This was the conference that was formerly known as the Energy Generation Conference.

The EPIC was held at the Bismarck Event Center and showcased industry products and services to the energy generation industry.

The event is a combination trade show and a professional development opportunity for employees in the industry.

This is a premier event for the energy generation industry. The conference had over 1,900 participants in 2020. The name change was to be implemented for the 2021 conference, however that conference was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Chamber EDC staff were exhibitors at Bismarck State College’s Energy Progress and Innovation Conference in January.

Chamber EDC staff was able to make several contacts with both Bismarck-Mandan businesses and those from outside the state. Previously, staff has been successful in generating contacts and have had a couple of business expansions into Bismarck-Mandan due to exhibiting at past shows.

Exhibiting at these types of trade shows are important in executing the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC’s business attraction efforts going forward. One of the Chamber EDC’s targeted industries in our business attraction efforts is value-added energy which fits with the makeup of the EPIC exhibitors and attendees.

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CHAMBER EDC NEWS | CONNECTION

BISMARCK-MANDAN Lemonade Day is a community-wide educational program designed to teach youth how to start, own and operate their own business through a lemonade stand.

Give kids the opportunity to learn valuable life skills through real-life experience!

July 23, 2022 If you, or someone you know is interested in participating in Lemonade Day, or learning more about it, please contact Josie at jsmyle@bmcedc.com, calling 701-223-5660 or by going online at

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CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC NEWS

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK FORUM & IMPACT ED BECOMES ONE PREMIER EVENT! NEW in 2022! The Chamber EDC along with, Starion Bank, presents their PREMIER economic development event, Focus on Bismarck-Mandan! This new event is a combination of two formerly well-known Chamber EDC events: the Economic Outlook Forum and Impact ED. Join us for this afternoon event to listen to relevant speakers showcasing the economic development efforts of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC, highlighting progress in the community, and learning more about the global and local economy’s strengths and issues of the past year and what is to come in 2022.

Focus on Bismarck-Mandan will be held on March 10.

On Thursday, March 10th at the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center (800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck), registration will go from 2:30pm to 3:00pm, with the event to follow from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. Immediately following the event will be a social with appetizers and refreshments for guests to network after hours!

Cost to attend is $40 for Chamber EDC Members (Virtual & In-Person) and $50 for General Admission (Virtual & In-Person).

For more information, contact Josie Smyle, jsmyle@bmcedc. com, or call the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660.

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsors: Virtual Sponsor:

Table Sponsors: Amy Hullet: Century 21 Morrison Realty, Bank of North Dakota, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bismarck Cancer Center, Bismarck State College, Bravera Bank, Capital Credit Union, Capital Electric Cooperative, Choice Bank, Dakota Carrier Network, First International Bank & Trust, First Western Bank & Trust, KX News, MDU Resources Group, National Information Solutions Cooperative, Sanford Health, University of Mary

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CHAMBER EDC NEWS | CONNECTION

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN: HEALTH AND EDUCATION DAY HEALTH DAY Health Day kicked off with a panel of hospital system presidents: Marvin Lein, Mid Dakota Clinic; Dr. Todd Schaffer, Sanford Health Bismarck; and Kurt Schley, CHI St. Alexius Health.

The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class tours the brand-new St. Mary’s Central High School for Education Day on Jan. 12

Schaffer said that right now COVID-19 accounts for 10 percent of hospitalizations and that people are still getting sick every day.

Schley said that right now they are coordinating capacity among hospitals, which was unheard of five years ago. There are daily calls among the hospitals and care centers across the state. Hospitals are able to transfer patients who need a lower level of care to other places and free up beds for acute levels of care.

Lein spoke on the issue of opioid pain killers. Although healthcare systems have reined in opioid prescriptions, unfortunately demand is still there. That’s why we’re seeing more fentanyl and heroin in the community. The problem has shifted from opioid medicines to illegal opioid drugs.

EDUCATION DAY The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan cohort convened in the new year at St. Mary’s Central High School. The day includes topics from elementary schools to higher education and from behavioral health to English language learners.

The day started with a higher education panel including three college and university presidents: Dr. Doug Jensen, Bismarck State College; Dr. Leander McDonald, United Tribes Technical College; and Msgr. James Shea, University of Mary.

Jensen announced a new partnership with Bismarck Public Schools. A new program is being piloted at Legacy High School. Students at Legacy will be able to work on an Associate Degree from Bismarck State College at the same time they are completing their high school career.

McDonald said that the higher education community needs to stop creating a dichotomy between academia vs. trade programs. McDonald said that it is a continuum, and educational institutions need to work with the needs and interests of the student.

Shea said the colleges and universities need to attend to the workforce needs in our community if we are going to flourish as a community in the long run. The University of Mary nursing program was ranked No. 1 in the nation in two of the last three years.

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OUR MANY THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING:

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsor: Scholarship Sponsors:

Alumni

Program Sponsors: Bartlett & West, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Liberty Business Systems, KLJ Health Day co-chairs: Kilee Harmon – The Gaia Home Marnie Walth – Sanford Health Education Day co-chairs: Joyce Hinman – Retired Educator Alicia Uhde – Bismarck State College Lunch, and Breakfast Sponsors: Sanford Health - Health Day The Gaia Home - Health Day Joyce Hinman - Education Day Alicia Uhde - Education Day Light of Christ Catholic Schools - Education Day

CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC NEWS

THE BEST WAY TO “TEE NOMINATE AN OFF” 2022 WAS WITH OUTSTANDING THE CEDC CREW! TEACHER TODAY! The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC is getting ready to open nominations for the 2022 Outstanding Teacher of the Year awards! From Monday, January 31st to Saturday, February 12th, please nominate the educators you think have exemplified the Crystal Apple Award.

Each year, the Chamber EDC honors educators from both Bismarck and Mandan in the following divisions: Primary, Secondary, and Higher Education.

The 3rd Annual Chamber EDC Indoor Golf Tournament is scheduled for Friday, January 13, 2023.

With two out of three flights SOLD OUT, on Friday, January 14th, the Chamber EDC started the new year with almost 100 individuals at Golf Etc., participating in their 2022 Indoor Golf Tournament.

This event was once again full of fun, with a variety of prizes from American Family Insurance-Terry Kraft, Brady, Martz, & Associates, Golf Etc., Jamieson Capital, McGough Construction, Moore Engineering, and Starion Bank.

Prizes were awarded to the players with the most fairways hit in each flight, the team with the highest score, as well as to the teams who placed in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd overall!

Thank you to all who participated in the Chamber EDC Indoor Golf Tournament, it was a great way to start off the first of many Chamber EDC events to come in 2022!

THANK YOU SPONSORS!!

Hole in One Sponsor: Eagle Sponsor: Birdie Sponsor: Drink Food Sponsor: Sponsor: TERRY KRAFT Bay Sponsor: Bismarck Motor Company, Brady, Martz, & Associates, Jamieson Capital, Northwestern Mutual – Adam Blees/Quinn Eggert, Prairie Engineering, P.C., Starion Bank

To submit a nomination for an excellent teacher, go to https://www.bismarckmandan.com/committees/, Outstanding Teacher of the Year Ad Hoc Committee, and either fill out an electronic form and email to Josie Smyle, jsmyle@bmcedc.com, or print, fill out, and mail to the Chamber EDC’s office: Attn: Josie Smyle Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC 1640 Burnt Boat Dr. Bismarck, ND 58503 The deadline to submit a nomination is February 12th. For any questions about the award process or nominations, call the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660.

THANK YOU SPONSORS!!

Presenting Sponsor: PRIMARY LOGO - COLOR

Award Sponsor:

KYLE HERMAN AGENCY

UNITED TRIBES TECHNICAL COLLEGE

UNIT TECHNIC

SECONDARY LOGO - COLOR

UNIT TECH

UNIT TECH MONOGRAM - COLOR

UTTC UTTC

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M

CHAMBER EDC EVENTS | CONNECTION

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: FOCUS ON DAKOTA EYE INSTITUTE BISMARCK-MANDAN Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 Location: Dakota Eye Institute

200 S 5th Street, Bismarck Event Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend

Mark your calendar for this month’s Membership Mixer!

Dakota Eye Institute will be hosting the February Membership Mixer on Thursday, February 24th, at their south location, 200 South 5th St, in Bismarck, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.

Bring your colleagues and friends for a fun evening of networking with an open bar and catering by Anima Cucina.

Don’t miss out on the chance to win some great door prizes including sunglasses and gift cards to Gideon’s Brewing Company and Anima Cucina!

RSVPs are appreciated and can be made by registering online at https://business.bismarckmandan.com/events or by contacting Josie Smyle, jsmyle@bmcedc.com.

Date: Thursday, March 10, 2022 Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center

800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck Registration: 2:30PM - 3:00PM Event Time: 3:00PM - 5:00PM Social: 5:00PM - 7:00PM Admission: $40 for Chamber EDC members

(Virtual & In-Person)

$50 for General Admission

(Virtual & In-Person) Presenting Sponsor:

NEW in 2022 is the Chamber EDC's PREMIER Economic Development event, Focus on Bismarck-Mandan!

Join the Chamber EDC for this afternoon event to listen to relevant speakers showcase the economic development efforts of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC. As well as gain insight on the progress in the community and learn more about the global and local economy's strengths and challenges 2021 and what is to come in 2022.

Registration is from 2:30pm to 3:00pm, with the event to follow from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. Immediately following the event will be a social with appetizers and refreshments for guests to network after hours!

For more information, contact Josie Smyle or call the Chamber EDC office at 701-223-5660.

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CONNECTION | CHAMBER EDC EVENTS

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: THE CRAFTCADE

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: MARCO TECHNOLOGIES

RSVP for the next month’s Membership Mixer at The CraftCade!

RSVP for the April Membership Mixer at Marco Technologies, LLC!

Join fellow Chamber EDC member as they host the March Membership Mixer on Thursday, March 24th, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at 405 N 4th St, Bismarck.

Join fellow Chamber EDC member, Marco Technologies, during the April Membership Mixer on Thursday, April 7th from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at 2906 Morrison Ave in Bismarck.

Come along for a fun evening of refreshments, hors d’ourves, and some business after hours!

Date: Thursday, March 24, 2022 Location: The Craftcade

205 S 4th Street, Bismarck Event Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend

Mixers are FREE for Chamber EDC members to attend so bring your colleagues and friends for a great evening of appetizers, refreshments, and networking!

RSVPs are appreciated and can be made by registering online at https://business.bismarckmandan.com/events or by contacting Josie Smyle, jsmyle@bmcedc.com.

Date: Thursday, April 7, 2022 Location: Marco Technologies

2906 Morrison Ave, Bismarck Event Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend

RSVPs are appreciated and can be made by registering online at https://business.bismarckmandan.com/events or by contacting Josie Smyle, jsmyle@bmcedc.com.

JOIN US Help us provide 2 million meals for hungry kids this Giving Hearts Day Three ways to help us: 1. Schedule your donation to the Great Plains Food Bank now at givingheartsday.org.

2. Donate online February 10.

3. Mail your check to the Great Plains Food Bank, 1315 20th Street South, Bismarck, ND 58503 before February 10 and note Giving Hearts Day in the memo line.

WITH YOU KIDS CAN LAUGH

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MEMBER NEWS | CONNECTION

NORTH DAKOTA RECEIVES STATE BUDGET AWARD

BISMARCK LAUNCHES INAUGURAL CITIZEN ACADEMY

The state of North Dakota has been awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2021-23 biennium budget by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).

The inaugural Bismarck Citizen Academy kicked off Thursday, January 20, 2022, at the City County building.

“We appreciate the assistance of all state agencies that help us gather information to prepare the state budget, and are honored that the GFOA recognizes our commitment to quality,” said Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Joe Morrissette. “This award reflects our success in meeting the standards of GFOA in developing a state budget that serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communications device.”

This is the 15th consecutive budget-cycle that North Dakota has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award.

The GFOA also presented a Certificate of Recognition for Budget Presentation to OMB for its primary role in creating the budget document.

Each biennium, OMB prepares the governor’s recommended budget for the upcoming biennium, which is then presented to the legislature for approval and enactment.

The goal of the program is to improve participants’ knowledge and understanding of municipal government operations while learning more about the City of Bismarck’s priorities, challenges, and services provided to the community. “This program will provide an opportunity for residents to learn about every department within our organization through hands-on facility tours and classroom-style learning experiences,” said Jason Tomanek, Assistant City Administrator. “We are excited to share what it takes to keep this tremendous community moving forward.”

The program will run weekly for eight sessions that begin at 6:30 p.m. Sessions are scheduled for two to three hours at various locations throughout the City. Each week will feature a specific topic and leadership from related City departments will be in attendance. Various City departments will be explored, and real-time group discussions and City facility tours will supplement different classroom presentations.

“We want participants to be equipped with the knowledge needed to become more engaged residents and to help develop and identify civic leaders in the community,” said Mayor Steve Bakken.

The Class of 2022 roster includes 12 participants selected from a pool of more than 60 applicants: Abby Ebach, Ellen Schafer, John Becker, John Bollinger, John Risch, Josh Olson, Nicole Gagner, Rachel McGill, Stephanie Starr, Tim Fischer,Todd Humphrey, and Vaughn Jund.

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CONNECTION | MEMBER NEWS

BASIN ELECTRIC RETURNS $64.5 MILLION TO ITS MEMBEROWNERS IN 2021 Basin Electric Power Cooperative shared today that the board of directors unanimously voted at its December meeting to approve a $30 million bill credit for Basin Electric’s member-owners.

“Basin Electric's structure and governance is based on the cooperative business model, which has proven itself time and again,” said Basin Electric CEO and General Manager Todd Telesz. “The cooperative remains in a solid financial condition and returning capital through various options to our member-owners aligns with our commitment to the membership.

This action is a testament to Basin Electric’s commitment to the cooperative principles and governance at a local level.”

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Directors voted to give back to the cooperative’s members due to consolidated financial results being better than projected for 2021. Members will see a bill credit on their December wholesale power bill.

This bill credit is in addition to the $34.5 million patronage retirement that was approved by the Basin Electric board of directors in November and distributed to the membership in early December.

Basin Electric is a member owned, not-for-profit cooperative that often returns patronage capital to its member-owners, but can also utilize bill credits to reduce their power bills.

Since 2000, Basin Electric will have returned $817.2 million to the membership via patronage capital retirements, bill credits, and power cost adjustments.

“One of the benefits of being a member of a cooperative is that members own their cooperative,” said Basin Electric Board President Wayne Peltier. “As a board, we are always grateful when we can return money to the membership.”

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MEMBER NEWS | CONNECTION

STEPPING INTO STEM PROGRAM INTRODUCES GIRLS TO NONTRADITIONAL CAREERS In January students from Wachter, Simle, and Horizon Middle Schools and St. Mary’s Academy spent the morning at the Career Academy and Technical Center participating in hands-on activities with local professionals to learn about STEM careers. The Stepping into STEM Program introduces 8th grade girls to potential career opportunities that are often considered non-traditional for women.

MARCO DONATES $10,000 TO SALVATION ARMY, AS EMPLOYEES BELL-RING TO BENEFIT THOSE IN NEED Marco Technologies announced today the results of its annual support of The Salvation Army, which includes a $10,000 corporate donation, as well as employee support through donations of monetary gifts and volunteered time.

A non-traditional career is one with fewer than 25% of the workforce comprised of one gender. In December, the Stepping into STEM students spent a day at the Career Academy exploring courses offered and career fields including Welding, Tech and Engineering, Robotics, Carpentry, Electronics, Agriculture, Aviation, Auto Technology, and IT.

This has been an annual tradition at Marco as a way to come together with co-workers to fill the Red Kettle and spread holiday cheer. This comes as millions of Americans are still experiencing the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, and The Salvation Army is amid another challenging holiday season, as it tries to meet the increasing needs of people struggling to remain above the poverty line.

Career exploration is an integral part of all North Dakota’s Gateway to Science (NDGTS) out-of-school time programs.

STEM professionals from local businesses partner with NDGTS educators to lead hands-on activities, share their experiences and passion with students, and provide an insight into their jobs in camps focused on topics ranging from engineering to environmental sciences.

To show their support, Marco employees volunteered as Salvation Army Red Kettle bell ringers in their communities.

In addition, Marco employees participated in officewide fundraising activities and made donations themselves, knowing that donations in each Red Kettle stay local, directly impacting the lives of their neighbors.

The Salvation Army serves more than 25 million people in communities nationwide each year. That results in more than 55 million meals for the hungry, more than 10 million nights of shelter for the homeless, and countless Christmas gifts for children who might otherwise go without.

Giving back to the community is a core value of Marco’s.

The company commits dollars every year to support charitable causes across the communities it serves, as a part of its Gold Standard culture.

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CONNECTION | MEMBER NEWS

BISMARCK LARKS NAMED ONE OF THE BEST EMPLOYERS IN SPORTS Front Office Sports selected the Bismarck Larks baseball team as one of the 30 best employers in sports for 2021. Other notable winners include the Denver Broncos, United Soccer League, 4Front and the Savannah Bananas.

Whether it is great leadership, commitment to diversity and inclusion, employee well-being or philanthropic/social endeavors, Front Office Sports’ Best Employers in Sports award recognizes organizations that do right by their employees.

“You can design, create and build the most wonderful place in the world, but it takes people to make the dream a reality,” said John Bollinger, Owner and Chief Experience Officer of the Bismarck Larks. “This is one of my favorite quotes from Walt Disney and nothing could be truer. Our people are the cornerstone of a great fan experience and it’s an honor to be recognized for our commitment to them.”

The Larks are especially unique because they operate in a small market 400 miles away from the nearest MLB team.

They recruit nationally with 13 of their 15 full time employees moving from out of state to work for the team. The organization has made a name for themselves by selling out consistently, adding goofy entertainment to their games and organizing year-round community events. Their goal is to become the Disneyland of North Dakota.

While some front offices worry about balls and strikes, the Larks are more focused on helping their community. In 2021, the Larks helped facilitate $70,000 to local non-profits and community programs, over 9,000 kids participated in their reading and 3,626 meals were donated during their jersey giveaway event.

“At the end of the day, employees want to work somewhere that gives them purpose, autonomy, the opportunity to be great and ultimately that has fun,” said Bollinger. “The fact that our culture strives to provides that for them each and every day is an award in itself.”

Larks’ employees submitted open-ended surveys to Front Office Sports to win the award. They described the Larks as a team that bucks the trend in sports of long hours and low pay.

They still work hard year-round, but also enjoy great benefits, unlimited vacation days, a unique, team-oriented bonus system, continued education opportunities and a culture centered around teamwork and direct feedback.

Mark Your Calendar!

for Giving Hearts Day! PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING TO:

BISMARCK

Help families.

Help immigrants.

EST. 2015 HELP US SERVE NEW AMERICANS IN OUR COMMUNITY: MENTORSHIPS TO ALLEVIATE ISOLATION TRANSLATION SERVICES FOR DAILY TASKS ENGLISH LANGUAGE OPPORTUNITIES ADVOCACY TO HELP SHARE STORIES CONNECTING LOCAL SERVICES FOR IMMEDIATE NEEDS CONNECTING WORKERS TO BUSINESSES CELEBRATING POSITIVE DIVERSITY IN ND EMPOWERING LOCAL IMMIGRANT LEADERS

Donate today! www.bismarckglobalneighbors.org/donate WWW.BISMARCKGLOBALNEIGHBORS.ORG

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ASK A PRO | CONNECTION

DR. WATKINS at

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

Q: WHAT ARE SOME THINGS I CAN DO TO HELP PREVENT CANCER? A: What's known about cancer prevention

is still evolving. However, it's well-accepted that your chances of developing cancer can be impacted by the lifestyle choices you make. When it comes to cancer prevention, a few simple changes can make a difference. Consider these cancer-prevention tips: a combination of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight are all key factors in cancer prevention. It is also important to avoid known cancer causing substances: limit alcohol use, avoid tobacco, protect skin from sun, and avoid indoor tanning, to name a few. While there are many cancer causing factors over which you have limited control, you can incorporate important cancer prevention measures in your daily life.

One of the most important preventative steps is getting regular medical care.

Self-exams and screening for various types of cancers such as skin, colon, cervix, prostate, and breast, can increase your chances of discovering cancer early. Contact your healthcare provider to learn more about prevention and screening opportunities.

Prevention and early detection are the first step in fighting the battle.

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COLLIN KUDRNA at

4204 Boulder Ridge Rd, #100, Bismarck, ND 58503

701-751-3064

Q: HOW DOES DIRECT ACCESS HELP ME AND WHAT IS A GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE? A: Direct access is your opportunity to

save time and money, thereby expediting your treatment, relief, and recovery.

Research supports those patients who seek physical therapy via direct access for a musculoskeletal condition tend to have better functional outcomes with fewer treatments and lower overall health expenditure.

North Dakota is a state that allows you to go directly to a physical therapist without obtaining a physician’s referral first. Always check with your insurance provider regarding insurance policy requirements. At Optimum Therapies, we are a believer in collaborative care. Your physical therapist will communicate with your primary doctor and specialist from start to finish.

The Good Faith Estimate provision within the No Surprises Act went into effect on January 1, 2022. The Good Faith Estimate provision requires health care providers and facilities to provide an estimate of expected charges upon request. This law pertains to patients who do not have insurance or are not using insurance (private pay). For additional information on Good Faith Estimates, visit www.optimumtherapies.com/north-dakota/ or call us at (701)751-3064.

JOHN BOLLINGER at

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

Q: HAVE YOU EVER HAD A MEMORABLE CHICKEN SALAD SANDWICH? A: It’s a trick question (unless you’re really into chicken salad). The point is I have a WAY more memorable and impactful way to say thank you to your employees and clients this summer than taking them to lunch.

It’s called Corporate Flock Membership with the Larks. Corporate Flock Members get to reward customers, employees, and their families with the best seats and all-inclusive food and drink at the most FUN summer experience in town - for as low as $594.

To make it even more memorable, we’ve added a NEW VIP Drop In program where YOU give the word and we personally drop-in on your guests, say hi, take a photo, and give them a gift. Talk about memorable.

Corporate Flock Members even get a discount if they decide to book a company picnic in one of our 3 unique group spaces as well as passes for year round events like Larks Grand Theater night and Larks Haunted Fort day.

To date, we’re 93% SOLD OUT of Corporate Flock Memberships and would love your help in selling out the ballpark this summer. If you’d like to join the Flock or learn more, email us today at info@larksbaseball.com.

CONNECTION | ASK A PRO

AMBER SCHRIOCK

MARCI NARUM at

at

1661 Capitol Way, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-250-9400

Q: WHAT IS THE GLOBAL CHIP SHORTAGE? A: Supply and demand. Whether you

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

Q: CAN YOU EXPLAIN BASIC FORMS OF ART THAT I SEE IN YOUR GALLERY?

know it or not, most digital devices are powered by semiconductors made with sil- A: While there are many genres and variaicon and used in the creation of integrated tions in the world of fine art, we try to distill it down to four basic forms: circuits (aka microchips). Digital displays, computers, entertainment systems, even 1. Representational is highly-detailed, your vehicle parking assist feature. Most of realistic art. At its highest level, a these chips are produced in foundries in painting can look photographic in its Taiwan and South Korea. realism. Think of Todd Clausnitzer.

These foundries have extreme clean rooms 2. requiring thousands of gallons of clean water daily, made difficult in Taiwan due to the worst drought in 50 years. Other factors delaying production include fires 3. in factories, power outages and a transportation blockage at the Suez Canal.

At the beginning of 2020, consumer demand for cars fell drastically while demand for computers and mobile devices soared.

Chip manufacturers shifted to meet demand, leaving car companies to decrease their production. The trade war between the US and China led to companies hoarding supplies, forcing manufacturers to find alternative options, creating more stress on the non-sanctioned foundries.

The U.S. produces less than 10% of the chips it uses. There has been talk of building new foundries in Arizona to boost production, however, it will be years before those are up and running.

4.

Expressive or impressionist art takes an obvious subject and gives it a twist, often in a colorful or even playful manner. Walter Piehl good example.

Abstract art offers the greatest challenge to many viewers, trying to figure out “what is the artist saying?” Usually, the artist is asking you to determine what you see, and how you feel about what you see. Jessica Wachter here.

Traditional, or historical, painting is in line with well known artists such as Charles Russell or Frederick Remington. A good example is Vern Erickson.

Of course, some of our artists work in a combination, or all of these genres. A good example here is Marcella Rose. Stop in The Capital Gallery anytime to discover what YOU enjoy! You will find artist portfolios on our website www.TheCapitalGallery.com

JOEL BLANCHARD,MD at

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

Q: WILL I HAVE TO COMPLY WITH THE OSHA ETS, CMS IFR OR FEDERAL CONTRACTOR VACCINE MANDATES IN JANUARY 2022?

A: The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on the OSHA ETS case Jan. 7. OSHA has said that it will use discretion in its enforcement of the mandate if the Supreme Court rules in its favor. Specifically, OSHA will not issue citations for noncompliance with most ETS requirements before January 10 and will not issue citations for noncompliance with the standard’s testing requirements before February 9, so long as the employer in question is making good faith efforts to comply.

The CMS IFR is currently in effect in 25 states but enjoined (i.e., unenforceable) in 25 others, including North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa. On Jan. 7, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments to determine the fate of the CMS IFR in the latter 25 states.

The federal contractor and subcontractor vaccine mandate, EO 14042, is enjoined nationwide with further litigation pending.

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MEMBER PERKS | CONNECTION THREE HIRED IN BISMARCK KLJ Engineering is proud to welcome three new team members to their Bismarck office.

Beth Krieger joins Beth Krieger KLJ as an accounts receivable specialist. She has more than 40 years of professional experience in providing business operations management, administrative support, as well as clerical support.

Tamala Schmidt Tamala Schmidt also joins the team as an accounts receivable specialist in the finance department. She holds a bachelor’s degree in drug and alcohol counseling from Midland College in Midland, Texas, and has Denae Johnson completed coursework for a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Ashford University in San Diego, California.

Denae Johnson joins KLJ as a government relations specialist. She has a graduate certificate in public administration from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology both from Minot State University in Minot.

THOMPSON NAMED BISMARCK BRANCH PRESIDENT First International Bank & Trust (FIBT) is proud to announce Brad Thompson as the new Brad Thompson Branch President of our Bismarck location. Brad will oversee the operations of our growing Bismarck branch, ensuring strategic and developmental goals are achieved. In this role, he will lead a team of exceptional bankers in providing top of the line financial products and services to help our clients reach their goals.

Brad has over 23 years of experience in the banking industry, including six-and-ahalf years as a Senior Commercial and Ag Loan Officer at FIBT. He played an integral part in growing and leading our Bismarck location, which quickly became a staple in the community and one of the bank’s bestperforming locations.

APEX HIRES ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNER Kayla Block joins Apex Engineering Group as a Lead Environmental Planner Kayla Block for the Transportation Group. She brings 11 years of experience as a consultant and environmental specialist for one of the largest surface mines in the U.S. Kayla has an extensive background in writing NEPA documents, biological assessments, wetland delineations, and preparing various permits for environmental compliance with federal and state agencies.

MANDAN AERO CENTER PROMOTES PFALTZGRAFF Bismarck Aero Center is pleased to announce that George Pfaltzgraff has been promoted to a FullGeorge Pfaltzgraff Time A&P Maintenance WOLF JOINS BIANCO Technician at Mandan REALTY Aero Center. After completing the 36-month Bianco Realty is FAA requirements of documenting “Onexcited to announce the The-Job” training, George earned his A&P newest REALTOR® to join License, thus allowing him to work more their professional Real independently on the airframe and engine Estate Team: Thomas portions of an aircraft. Prior to his promotion, Thomas Wolf Wolf. Thomas looks George was an Apprentice Technician forward to helping clients working towards his goal of becoming a with their Real Estate needs, achieving licensed technician. their dream of home ownership and With his new position, George will take providing a Tradition of Excellence! on more responsibility in the Mandan Aero Center maintenance shop. His mechanical skills and ability to identify problems will help our team continue to our community’s keep local aviators safe.

KRAUS-ANDERSON CONSTRUCTION PROMOTES NORTON AND WALTER Kraus-Anderson Construction (KA) has promoted Tucker Norton Tucker Norton and Dan Walter from project managers to senior project managers.

Both work out of the company’s Bismarck office.

Norton joined KA in 2015 and has managed Dan Walter North Dakota projects in the office and education market sectors, including projects for North Dakota State University in Fargo, University of Mary in Bismarck, Stanley Public Schools, Central Cass Public School, Northern Cass Public School and Alexander Public Schools. He received a B.S. in Construction Management from North Dakota State University.

Walter joined KA in 2017 and has managed North Dakota projects in the education, public and healthcare market sectors, including projects for RichardtonTaylor Public Schools, Williston Rural Fire Department, Bismarck Surgical Associates, Sanford Health, CHI St. Alexius Health and North Dakota State University. He received a B.S. in Construction Management from North Dakota State University and is a member of the American Society for Healthcare Engineering, North Dakota Healthcare Engineering Society and North Dakota Hospital Association.

GATE CITY BANK HIRES WIKE Brett Wike has been hired as Business Banker at Gate City Bank.

Originally from Bismarck, Wike brings 10 years Brett Wike of experience to Gate City Bank. He graduated from University of Mary in 2012, earning his degree in sports management and communication.

Outside of work, Wike is an active volunteer with Missouri Slope Areawide United Way and Diocese of Bismarck. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, being outside, socializing and playing a variety of board and video games.

Share your business news with the Chamber EDC. Email press releases to Rebecca at rpelkey@bmcedc.com.

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CONNECTION | MEMBER PERKS PROMOTIONS AT CORNERSTONE BANK Darren Volk has been promoted to VP/ Lead Credit Analyst in Bismarck. Darren joined Cornerstone Bank as a Darren Volk Mortgage Loan Processor in February 2010. Darren was promoted to Credit Analyst in May 2011, to Credit Analyst Officer in March 2013, and AVP/ Credit Analyst in April 2021.

Mark Keller has Mark Keller been promoted to a Credit Analyst Officer in Bismarck. Mark joined Cornerstone Bank as a Credit Analyst in June 2020.

Channa Van Beek has been promoted to HR & Training Generalist in Channa Van Beek Bismarck. Channa joined Cornerstone Bank as an HR & Training Coordinator in November 2019.

NDIRF PROMOTES LANG TO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF CLAIMS The North Dakota Insurance Reserve Fund (NDIRF) is proud to announce Michelle Lang Michelle Lang has been promoted to Assistant Director of Claims. This news follows the promotion of former Assistant Director of Claims Keith Pic to Director of Claims. The Director of Claims position was previously held by Jeff Cahill who earlier announced his Jan. 14, 2022, retirement.

Lang joined the NDIRF in August 2016 as an Outside Claims Adjuster, supporting NDIRF members throughout the claims reporting and resolution processes for liability, automobile, and public assets coverage types. Prior to working at the NDIRF, she served as a claim representative for a commercial insurance company for over 24 years.

In her new role, Lang is responsible for supervising a multi-line claims department, and maintaining compliance with claims management systems, reinsurance reporting guidelines, and the state’s insurance department.

Lang has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of North Dakota. She holds an Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designation and is currently pursuing a Senior Claim Law Associate (SCLA) designation.

BISMARCK AERO CENTER HIRES CERTIFIED FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR Clint May has accepted the position as Full-Time Lead CFI Clint May at BAC. This is an easy transition for Clint as he has been working part-time with our Flight Instruction Department for the past 15 months. Clint is no stranger to this role as he was the Manager of a part 141 flight school. There he assigned students, supervised CFI’s, ensured adherence to FAA regs, and worked directly with several students as a CFI himself. During his tenure as Manager, Clint developed a reputation as a fair supervisor, and an excellent CFI. After working with Clint during his tenure at BAC, we are confident he will continue to uphold our company Standards with our flight students and in our Bismarck/Mandan community.

BIANCO REALTY SALES AWARDS Bianco Realty has announced their top 10 REALTORS® for December: Judy Maslowski, Shirley Thomas, Amber Sandness, Darcy Fettig, Tori Meyer, Greg Gerhart, Heidi Stein, Kyle Niess, Phyllis Rittenbach & Brenda Foster. These 10 REALTORS® had the highest sales totals at Bianco Realty in December 2021.

STARION BANK PROMOTES ZIMMERMAN Starion Bank is proud to announce the promotion of Alexandra (Alex) Zimmerman Alex Zimmerman to Business Banking Representative.

Zimmerman joined Starion in June 2021 as a Universal Banker. She holds a bachelor's degree in Strategic Communication with a minor in Business Administration.

Zimmerman is excited about the new role and her continued work with Starion customers.

In her spare time, Zimmerman serves as a chair member for the Bismarck-based nonprofit Project Love, which sends shoes, clothing and other supplies to children in Africa. She also enjoys being outdoors, working on house projects with her husband, and spending time with friends and family.

FIRST COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION HIRES WANDLER First Community Credit Union recently hired Jackson Wandler as a Mortgage Loan Officer Jackson Wandler (MLO) in the Bismarck market. Wandler will be located at the Bismarck Downtown branch at 425 N 5th St. As a Mortgage Loan Officer, Wandler will be responsible for helping members with mortgage loans for purchasing or refinancing homes, as well as the constructing of a new home.

Wandler, originally from Dickinson, ND, has a BA degree in Catholic Studies as well as his MBA from the University of Mary.

Following in the footsteps of his father who was in the mortgage industry, Wandler began working as an MLO in 2020.

LIGNITE ENERGY COUNCIL NAMES KAY LACOE AS NEW VICE PRESIDENT Kay LaCoe, a native of Bismarck, ND, has been named vice Kay LaCoe president of marketing and communications of the Lignite Energy Council as of January 1, 2022. She currently holds the title of director of membership marketing.

Kay, a graduate of the University of Mary, worked for Basin Electric Power Cooperative and Agency MABU before joining the LEC in April 2008.

She succeeds Steve Van Dyke, who will retire as of December 31, 2021.

Steve worked 19 years for the Lignite Energy Council. Steve worked in the communications arena for the LEC and most recently was the vice president of communications.

Married to Shane LaCoe, Kay and her husband have a son, Maison, who is currently in high school. The family also includes their three Chesapeake Bay Retriever dogs.

Outside of the office, Kay enjoys competing in cowboy mounted shooting which takes her across the country with her horses and two single-action revolvers. Kay is also an avid hunter.

Active in community organizations, Kay has been involved in 4-H, Leadership Bismarck-Mandan, Toastmasters International and the International Association of Business Communicators as well as serving various boards and committees throughout the community.

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RIBBON CUTTINGS | CONNECTION 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 Ross at 701-223-5660.

SANFORD HEALTH Senior & surgical teams celebrate the Grand Opening of Sanford Broadway Same Day Surgery Center located at 715 E Broadway Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 701-323-6500. Member.

PURE BARRE Mary Logan, owner, celebrates Chamber EDC membership at their location at 1400 43rd Ave NE Suite 1404 in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-751-0528. Member.

THE GOOD KIDS Ashton Hauff and Ben Brick, Co-Founders, celebrate their Grand Opening of their new business at 418 E Broadway Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 701-595-0202. Member.

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HALBERSTADT'S Alex Dahl and team celebrate Grand Opening of new location at Kirkwood Mall. Phone: 701-751-1930. Member.

UNCONVENTIONAL COOKIES Witney Nielsen, owner, and Anika Kleingartner celebrate Grand Opening of the UNCO Cookie Haus at 706 East Ave. E in Bismarck. Member.

CHICK-FIL-A Andrew Stubbs, Owner Operator, and team celebrate Grand Opening of their new location at 703 S 3rd Street in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-751-0793. Member.

CONNECTION | 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.

Bismarck Gymnastics Academy Inc. 3200 N 10th St, 113 Bismarck, ND 58503 Jo Vroman (701) 258-8956 Our mission is to provide a progressive gymnastics training program which enhances the strength, agility, flexibility, balance, coordination, and self esteem of the participants.

Bright Dental Studio 1110 College Dr., Suite 110 Bismarck, ND 58501 Crystal Schmidt (701)-712-0770 Dr. Crystal Schmidt has been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years in Bismarck. She specializes in family dental care, cosmetic dentistry and therapeutic botox as well as many other services.

Anytime Works Bismarck, ND 58504 Patrick Hart (701) 426-2419 Anytime Works is a locally based construction company with no employees. Three owners, Pat Hart, Ben Skoglund, and Eli Nolte, operate the business and do the work we sell.

The Good Kids 418 E Broadway Ave. Suite #1 Bismarck, ND 58501 Ashton Hauff (701) 400-2906 The Good Kids is a branding studio in downtown Bismarck, ND. We help good ideas stand out with strategic brand experiences.

Country Financial 1142 W Turnpike Ave. Suite 2 Bismarck, ND 58501 Greta Bradley (701) 354-6995 Insurance Agency

FEBRUARY LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

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

Tues, 1st

5:30 pm

Mandan City Commission

Thurs, 3rd

5:00 pm

Bismarck Board of Adjustment*

Mon, 7th

5:00 pm 5:30 pm

Burleigh County Commission Mandan School Board

Tues, 8th

5:15 pm

Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 9th 8:00 am

5:15 pm

Burleigh County Water Resource District * Burleigh Planning & Zoning

Thurs, 10

Bismarck Parking Authority* Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority*

9:00 am 4:00 pm

Mon, 14th 10:00 am

5:15 pm

5:30 pm

Met. Planning Org. – Tech Advisory Cmte. * Bismarck School Board Mandan Park Board

Tues, 15th 1:30 pm

4:00 pm

5:30 pm

Met. Planning Org. – Policy Board* Burleigh County Human Services Zone Board Mandan City Commission

Wed, 16th 3:00 pm

Bismarck Historic Preservation Commission*

Thurs, 17th

5:15 pm

Bismarck Park Board

Tues, 22nd

5:15 pm 5:30 pm

Bismarck City Commission Mandan School Board

Wed, 23rd

5:00 pm

Bismarck Planning & Zoning

Thurs, 24th

5:00 pm

Burleigh County Commission

Mon, 28th

5:30 pm

Mandan Planning & Zoning

Meetings are replayed on Government Access channels and are archived online at FreeTV.org * Not available on Radio Access

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

UPCOMING CHAMBER EDC EVENTS

PREMIER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EVENT

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: DAKOTA EYE INSTITUTE Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Dakota Eye Institute – 200 S 5th Street, Bismarck FOCUS ON BISMARCK-MANDAN Date: Thursday, March 10, 2022 • Registration: 2:30pm • Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Social: 5:00pm - 7:00pm Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center – 800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck

PRESENTED BY:

MARCH MEMBERSHIP MIXER: THE CRAFTCADE Date: Thursday, March 24, 2022 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: The Craftcade – 405 N 4th Street, Bismarck APRIL MEMBERSHIP MIXER: MARCO TECHNOLOGIES Date: April 7, 2022 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Marco – 2906 Morrison Ave, Bismarck BISMARCK MANDAN CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER Date: April 28, 2022 • Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm Location: Bismarck Event Center – 315 S 5th Street, Bismarck

CONTACT JSMYLE@BMCEDC.COM TO REGISTER!

GIVING HOPE

TOGETHER 10

10

On this day, Thursday, February 10, we encourage you to donate to the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.

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 10 and click on the Giving Hearts Day “Donate” button.