July Chamber Connection

CHAMBER CONNECTION Bismarck-Mandan

July 2016

ADVOCATE FOR BUSINESS New Chamber President

Scott Meske

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Member Profile Cole Papers

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LBM Accepting Applications Sign up for this prestigious Chamber leadership program.

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TRC is Around the Corner The Chamber's Total Resource Campaign starts in August.

CHAMBER CONNECTION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Perrie Schafer..................................................................................................................... Chair Brenda Nagel ........................................................................................................... Chair-Elect Ron Day....................................................................................................................... Secretary Craig Larson.................................................................................................................Treasurer Annette Behm-Caldwell ............................................................................................ Past Chair

CHAMBER NEWS

Celebrating Bismarck-Mandan's Finest Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Accepting Applications TRC Around the Corner

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CHAMBER EVENTS

July Membership Mixer: BelCastle Management LBMAA Social Swagger Fridays at the Chamber Chamber Sporting Clays Shootout

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

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COLUMNS Chair's Corner

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FEATURES

Cover Story 4 Feature 8 Member Profile 10 Ask-A-Pro 26 Chamber Perks 28 1640 Burnt Boat Drive P.O. Box 1675 Bismarck, ND 58502 701.223.5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com

CHAMBER STAFF Scott Meske................................................................................................................ President Annie Bergrud.........................................................................................Chief Financial Officer David Leingang............................................................................ Community Growth Director Mary Masters................................................................................. Office Support Professional Ryan Parsons..............................................................................Vice President of Membership Rebecca Rattei................................................................................ Communications Specialist Amanda Schwieters......................................................................... Member Services Director Chelse Simon..................................................................................Membership Sales Director Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Anderson ........................ Communications Specialist/ LBM Director Karly Palczewski...............................................................................Marketing & Events Intern

CONTACT INFORMATION Content: The Chamber - 701.223.5660 rparsons@bismancc.com

Advertise: Ryan Parsons rparsons@bismancc.com

MISSION STATEMENT: Leaders for prosperity. Advocates for business.

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2 | Chamber Connection

Member

FDIC

Chair's Corner

G

reetings Chamber Members:

We are all busy working on our businesses in our neighborhoods and communities of Mandan and Bismarck throughout the year. While we focus on our customers, clients and employees, your Chamber continues to work for you; to continue to make this Chamber the best in North Dakota.

Many of you have met our new President, Scott Meske and I’m thrilled to see him hit the ground running. We’ve thrown a lot at him in the time he has been with us. But thanks to the Chamber’s dedicated staff and volunteer leaders, Scott is quickly getting up to speed on our fantastic programs and services we offer for Members. Look for an in-depth profile of Scott in this issue. We are fortunate to have a leader of his caliber working for us and our communities.

The Chamber Golf Scramble event was nothing short of spectacular on June 13.

With perfect weather, great sponsors and partners, we produced a nearly flawless 27th Annual Chamber Golf Scramble. Thanks to Amanda Schwieters and the rest of the Chamber staff for a super event.

The recent elections also give the Chamber an opportunity to advocate for you. New officials and returning officials alike need to hear the Chamber’s message. Over the next few weeks we’ll be reaching out to our local and state officials to ensure the Chamber continues to be the voice of our business communities.

So what is our message this coming session? Chamber Vice President Ryan Parsons worked with Sandi Tabor and the Government Affairs Committee to tackle this very issue the past couple of months. There were four sub committees formed to help discern our legislative priorities in the coming 2017 State Legislature. After much research, the group named down: a) Infrastructure; b) Behavioral Health; c) General Business; and d) K-12 issues.

The full Board of Directors and the Government Affairs Committee along with subcommittee chairs will work through the final list and present the plan to the Membership. This legislative session will be a challenge for all political sub divisions and local entities. It’s imperative we, as a business leading organization, know our priorities before the session starts. That will give Scott, Ryan and the Board a clear message and guide our approach to what we support, oppose or simply monitor. Thanks to the staff and committee for doing such outstanding work for the Membership.

So while you and I are working on our business, the Chamber continues to work for us. You can be proud to be a Member of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce as we continue to be “leaders for prosperity and advocates for business.”

- Perrie Schafer Chairman, Board of Directors facebook.com/bismanchamber Cover Photo Credit: Melanie Sioux Photography

twitter.com/bismanchamber

Chamber Connection | 3

FEATURE

THE CHAMBER GETS A NEW CAPTAIN

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

When Scott Meske was looking to helm his own ship, he told the headhunter he’d been working with that he was willing to move away from Wisconsin, but not to the east or the south.

After serving as the head of the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce for two years, Meske started as President of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce in May.

“He said, ‘I want you to look at Williston, N.D.,’” Meske said. “And I said, ‘Where?’”

Photo Credit: Melanie Sioux Photography

Meske started as President of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce in May. Prior to working as head of the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce, Meske had been associate director of a trade organization, Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin.

In Wisconsin, Meske was working as a lobbyist and in government affairs; using his undergraduate degree in political science.

“I got to know local government very well,” Meske said.

After graduating from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute of Organizational Management in 2011, Meske said he knew working with a Chamber of Commerce was a part of the non-profit world he wanted to pursue.

4 | Chamber Connection

NoDak Badger

Meske, who has been nicknamed the “NoDak Badger” by longtime friends, is a Wisconsin native. He enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National Guard at age 17 to help pay for college.

Photo Credit: Melanie Sioux Photography

www.bismarckmandan.com “I believe in the free enterprise system,” Meske said. “I believe in our democracy.

And Chambers since 1763 have been in this country for one reason only, and that’s to be the eyes and ears and voice of the business community. And I believe in that deeply.”

When Meske began working at the Williston The opportunity to influence business policy in Bismarck-Mandan and North Dakota drew Scott Area Chamber of to the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber.

Commerce, he said he came in “This recruiter saw this young kid standing in college with the intent to transition from a small chamber to a registration line with no hair and standing at ease,” big chamber and grow with the city. As the city grew, the Meske said. “He said, ‘Son, did you just get back from Chamber needed to grow as well.

Basic Training?’ “‘Yes sir.’

“The Chamber was in transition just as the city was,” Meske said.

“He said, ‘Come with me.’”

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Meske attended class in his ROTC uniform and said some professors would ask him to sit in the back of the classroom. The Vietnam War had ended only five years prior.

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Meske served in Germany as an aide-de-camp for his uncle, a Brigadier General, and saw the Berlin Wall at age 22. He joined the mobile public affairs detachment and worked as a military journalist, and Meske eventually ended his time in uniform as a captain after 15 years.

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“I learned how to wield a Nikon and IBM Selectric (typewriter),” Meske said.

Prior to his work in the Chamber world, Meske said he focused on his government affairs work as being an advocate and a voice for others.

CETI-059-0616

“There’s a dirty little secret in all of our state houses and in Congress — that is elected officials actually like lobbyists, because they speak for many,” Meske said.

Meske said he felt destined for Chamber work. He said to run an association, whether it is an architects’ trade association or a Humane Society, you have to have a passion for the mission.

For registration go to bscprofessionaldevelopment.com or contact Dave Huizenga, 224-5683

Chamber Connection | 5

FEATURE Workforce development — If it’s not the No. 1 priority, it should be.

Economic development — Has to be cooperative, inclusive, regional. We need to take an approach of “Why not?”

Infrastructure funding – The top national issue for the U.S. Chamber and is also a top priority for us locally.

Industry regulations — You can say that workforce is what’s hampering our economic development, but it’s not. It’s regulations local, state, federal.

Behavioral health – Behavioral Health is a silent killer of our economy … It’s a business issue, and I want people to understand that. Behavioral Health costs an employer for an employee health plan; it’s a business issue.

K-12 education funding – It’s a business issue. It directly impacts our tax base, quality of life.

Tax exemptions – Tax exemptions are going to be one of the first things that the legislature is going to look at.

There’s a couple hundred different type of tax exemptions … They’re all going to be on the table.

Meske said he watched Chamber membership increase as the oil boom died down. During the boom, Meske said businesses had no time to get involved with the Chamber. As growth slows down, the Chamber’s position in the community is on the rise. Once people stopped working 75-hour weeks, Meske said they had time to join the Chamber ambassadors and committees and attend Eggs and Issues events and Business After Hours mixers.

Perhaps the most unique aspect of Meske’s work in Williston was running North Star Caviar, a joint venture between Williston Area Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Ft. Union Trading Post and Friends of Ft. Buford foundations.

For more than 20 years, North Star Caviar has been harvesting caviar during North Dakota’s limited paddlefish snagging season. This year, approximately 2,500 pounds of caviar was harvested in May from female paddlefish. On the open market, North Dakota caviar sells for $160-$180 per pound. Buyers from New York, Chicago, Canada, Japan and even Russia bid on North Dakota caviar.

Proceeds from North Star Caviar are distributed through community grants for cultural, historical and education programs, making it a truly unique Chamber venture.

Looking to the Future

Moving from the Williston Chamber to Bismarck-Mandan has had a lot of continuity with similar issues facing both communities and both Chambers.

“The difference is magnitude,” Meske said.

Meske praised the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber’s government affairs and local issues committees saying, “That’s my comfort zone — talking shop with the local elected officials.”

For more information visit bismarckcancercenter.com 500 N 8th St|Bismarck, ND 58501 701-222-6100 6 | Chamber Connection

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SCOTT MESKE ON BISMARCKMANDAN’S HOT TOPICS

July 9

Demon Football Fun Run

July 16

Harleywood Nights

July 30

Blue Grass Goes Pink

August 9

Dancer for Cancer Zumbathon

August 13 Saddle Up Against Cancer August 19 Drive to Survive Sept. 24-25 Applefest

www.bismarckmandan.com

Meske said he enjoys exploring our great state by finding a state park, wildlife refuge, rodeo or a music festival to scratch his photography itch still remaining from his time in uniform. You might find him at a local hockey rink or on a western Montana stream, chasing an elusive trout with a fly rod.

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I believe in the free enterprise system. I believe in our democracy. And Chambers since 1763 have been in this country for one reason only, and that’s to be the eyes and ears and voice of the business community. And I believe in that deeply.

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- Scott Meske, Chamber President

Photo Credit: David Leingang

He said one of his goals as the new Chamber President is “making sure that the rest of the organizations in town know that our doors are open, and we’re going to be working with you them.”

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Chamber Connection | 7

FEATURE

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES CAMPAIGN IN BISMARCK

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

Photo Credit: Bernie 2016 campaign

Not every election year sees a visit from a presidential candidate in North Dakota, but 2016 brought candidates from both sides of the aisle to Bismarck.

Donald Trump, presumptive Republican nominee for president spoke at the Williston Basin Petroleum Conference on May 26. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., campaigned at The Bismarck Depot on May 13 in his quest to become the Democratic party nominee.

During Trump’s speech and press conference and Sanders’ rally, both candidates spoke on topics of interest to Chamber of Commerce members.

SEN. BERNIE SANDERS

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., speaks to a rally of 2,200 people at The Bismarck Depot on May 13.

Sanders on fossil fuel industry in North Dakota Now I understand that there are many people in North Dakota who work in the fossil fuel industry. They’re working hard and they’re doing their best to take care of their families. I got it; I understand that. That is why in the legislation that I have introduced, which is the most comprehensive climate change legislation ever introduced in the U.S. Senate — Our job is not to hurt any worker, we provide $41 billion to rebuild any community in America that was hit hard by the transformation of our energy system.

Our job is not to hurt workers, and I consider myself perhaps the most strong, pro-worker member of the United State Senate. Our job is to save the planet, and we can do both of those things.

Sanders on fracking and global trade agreements There is another issue out there that is looming that I think every year will become more and more important. That is the questions of whether in the United States and around the world we’re going to have enough clean drinking water to take care of our people. And that is why I believe we have got to ban fracking.

Secretary Hillary Clinton, when she was Secretary of State actually pushed fracking technology on countries around the world. When we talk about why the middle class in this country has been in decline for the last 30 years, one of the reasons is a series of disastrous trade policies like NAFTA, CAFTA, permanent normal trade relations with China.

8 | Chamber Connection

These trade policies were written by corporate America with the express purpose of enabling them to shut down factories in America, move to low-wage countries and then bring their products back in here. I have vigorously opposed every one of these trade agreements. Secretary Clinton has supported virtually every one of them. Those trade agreements have cost us millions of decent-paying jobs.

Sanders on minimum wage In my view, if you work 40 hours a week in the United States of America, you should not be living in poverty.

Everybody here knows that a federal minimum wage or a state minimum wage of $7.25 an hour is a starvation wage. We’re going to raise the minimum wage in this country and every state in America to a living wage — $15.00 an hour.

Sanders on health care When we think about the needs of the American people, when we think about what our rights should be, it is important that we look all over the industrialized world.

And if you look at the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Holland, Italy, Scandinavia. If you look at our neighbors, your neighbor and Vermont’s neighbor to the north, Canada. You know what you find? Every one of these major countries guarantees health care to all of their people as a right — as a right, not a privilege. And I believe that. I believe that all of our people, young and old, poor and rich, middle class should be able to get the health care that they need, when they need it.

www.bismarckmandan.com

DONALD TRUMP

Q: What role do you think the federal government should have in regulating energy now that you’re here at this petroleum conference?

A: I think the federal government should get out of the way. The federal government is in the way. We have so much potential energy that people wouldn’t even believe it. In fact my speech today is on energy. That’s exactly what it is. The federal government, the regulations that they have, they put the coal miners out of business. The coal mines are shut. What they’ve done to the coal — Hillary Clinton, she’s worse than Barack Obama. She actually openly said “I want to put the coal miner out of business.

I want to put the coal mines out of business.” Essentially she’s saying “I want to put the steel mills out of business.”

We’re not going to have any businesses left. Hillary, I can’t imagine how she could possibly do well in a place like Pennsylvania. She certainly didn’t do well in West Virginia. I think she made a big mistake. She’s catering to certain people. But I think ultimately jobs and these incredible people, the miners, they’re incredible people.

I asked a couple of them, “Why don’t you go into some different profession?” They said, “Cause we love going after coal”. I’ll never forget the answer. You know, you think it’s dangerous, and you’re going deep down into these incredible crevices. I said, “Wow.” But they love doing what they do. That’s what they do.

Q: Here in North Dakota fracking is on the forefront of everyone’s minds. Bernie has said he would ban fracking completely. Hillary has said higher regulation. How would you deal with the shale oil plays?

A: Well, Bernie is going to ban fracking. … They want to absolutely knock out fracking. You do that and you’re going to be back in the Middle East begging for oil again. It’s not going to happen. Not with me. We’re going to open it up. We’re going to be energy-independent.

We’re going to have all sorts of energy. We’re going to have everything you could think of, including solar. And I know a lot about solar. The problem with solar is it’s very expensive. When you’re going to have a 30-year payback, that’s not exactly the greatest thing in the world.

But I know a lot about solar. I’ve gone solar on occasion, but it’s a very, very expensive thing. Wind is very expensive. Without subsidy, wind doesn’t work. You need massive subsidies for wind.

Q: For Main Streets, small businesses and Chambers of Commerce across America, what are the keys to economic vitality?

A: Well, I’ll tell you two of them that are very, very important are lower taxes — we’re the highest taxed nation in the world by far — lower taxes, and the other one is we’re over-regulated. I will tell you, I made a speech last night in front of a group, and I said regulation — and this surprised me, really surprised me, I’ve seen it ever since I’ve been doing this for like 10 months or so — and regulation is even more of a problem for people than the taxes, which surprised me. But they’re both problems, so we’re going to lower, under my plan we’re lowering taxes very substantially as you know — from businesses to middle income, for everybody. So taxes are going way down. We’re going to allow trillions of dollars to pour into the country that are right now outside of this country where people and companies want to bring it in — they can. And we’re going to get rid of the tremendous number of rules, regulations, probably 75 percent of which are absolutely terrible for our country.

Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump addresses members of the media before speaking at the Williston Basin Petroleum Conference at the Bismarck Event Center on May 26.

Photo Credit: Renae Mitchell

The Affordable Care Act, which I supported, has done a number of good things, but not enough. We have 29 million people today without any health insurance, and many of you are underinsured with high deductibles and high co-payments. And every person here, every person in North Dakota, Vermont and America is being ripped off by the greed of the pharmaceutical industry. There is no rational reason why our people are being charged the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs. Then, on top of all of that, it turns out that we are spending much, much more per person for health care than other people of any other major country. That is why I believe and will fight for as President a Medicare-for-all health care system.

Chamber Connection | 9

CHAMBER

Profile

News

events

The Bismarck staff include Scott Kleinjan, Mike Rosenau, Kim Davis, Brandt Dockter, Doran Huus and Matthew Martel.

MEMBER PROFILE Featuring Chuck Perkins Q: Tell us about yourself and your role within the organization.

A: I have been at Cole Papers for 36 years and am the President/CEO. I grew up on a farm in Texas, met my wife after the Navy in Washington, DC, and left a management consulting job there to join my wife’s dad in the business in 1980.

COLE PAPERS

Q: Briefly tell us the history of Cole Papers.

A: Cole Papers began in 1918 by my wife’s grandfather.

Bismarck was one of the early branches – there were four locations in 1980; we now have nine across ND, SD and MN. The Flooring Division began after World War II. The paper, packaging and janitorial/sanitary supply business is the larger division.

BUSINESS

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Internet-enabled Apple or Android smartphone is required. Message and data rates from your carrier may apply.

www.firstintlbank.com/BusinessMobile 10 | Chamber Connection

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www.bismarckmandan.com Q: What differentiates Cole Papers from its competitors?

A: We are frequently told by some of our well-traveled suppliers that we are unique among all the distributors they have seen. Our uniqueness relates to our family/employee owned culture centered around family values, integrity and caring. We have a parttime chaplain, a part-time leadership Cole Papers is located at 2917 37th St NW in Mandan. development coach and a very active “Culture Committee.” We have very low employee turnover – one longtime sales rep retired this year with over 46 years of Q: What should Chamber members know about Cole employment.

Papers that may assist them?

A: We have several “consulting specialists” who are Q: How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan available to assist our customers. They can help reduce impacted Cole Papers? labor costs, improve hygiene conditions in work spaces A: Bismarck has been an active branch for 50+ years. We and we can provide “customized” online ordering to often receive state contract awards – partially because of save customer’s time. Our wide array of products can our excellent service to all the state government entities also reduce customer acquisition expenses by providing around the capitol area. Both our paper and flooring more “one-stop” shopping. We also provide many of our divisions have been active there for many years. customers with customized products (soap dispensers, bags, mats, etc.) with their logos – sometimes these Q: What industry trends are taking place? logoed dispensers are free. We have saved some A: Two trends impact our business daily. One is customers hundreds and even thousands of dollars. competition from non-traditional distributors (e.g.

Maybe we could do the same for you. Call us and we will Grainger, Amazon, etc.) Another is the growing use of the have our consultants/specialists work with you to explore internet for “shopping, ordering and product knowledge the possibilities. research.”

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

A: The growing amount of non-traditional competition puts compression on margins which continually forces us to find new ways to reduce expenses and improve efficiency. The changes in health care and the cost of providing that benefit has been challenging.

Q: What does the future of Cole Papers look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: I believe our future is bright – we are a fourth generation company (both of our sons now work in the business also) that has now been around for almost 100 years; this is very rare. Our on-going cost improvement projects, top-line suppliers, low employee turnover, unique culture and a growing number of younger employees who have been successfully recruited will help ensure our future success.

Q: Cole Papers has been a member since 1964, why do you continue to renew each year?

A: We are members of the Chamber in all of our locations because they promote better business practices and help stimulate the local economies.

Chamber Connection | 11

CHAMBER

Profile

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events

CELEBRATING BISMARCK-MANDAN'S FINEST On September 22nd, the Chamber and the Excellence in Business Committee will celebrate local businesses and their leaders for their accomplishments within the community. This year’s 12th annual Celebrate BismarckMandan award ceremony will honor those who have been nominated in the following categories: • • • •

Small Business Person of the Year Mike Fink Award for Steady Growth & Profitability New Entrepreneur of the Year Granite Award (sponsored by MDU Resources and Basin Electric) • Outstanding Teachers of the Year • Golden Eagle Recipient

Please join us from 11:00am to 1:00pm at the Ramkota.

Tickets are $35 for members and $45 for non-members.

Registration is available online at: http://business. bismarckmandan.com/events/details/celebratebismarck-mandan-3256

Presenting Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors: Silver Sponsor: Bismarck Aero Center Award Sponsor: The Bismarck Tribune Table Sponsors: Bismarck State College, Bremer Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Eide Bailly LLP, Gate City Bank, Midco, Sanford Health, Wells Fargo Bank, Starion Financial, Bismarck Cancer Center, Bank of North Dakota and KXMB CBS 12.

Banner Sponsors: Advanced Business Methods, Brady Martz & Associates, P.C., Liberty Business Systems, U.S. Bank, Widmer Roel and McQuade Distributing.

There are still a few table sponsors spots left, but they are going quick! If your business would like a table at the event, please contact David Leingang at 223.5660 or by email at: dleingang@bismancc.com.

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER, KARLY!

In June, I joined the Chamber as the Event Planning and Marketing Intern. It was an opportunity I could not pass up and since the day I started, it has been a perfect fit for me!

I started college in the fall of 2015 and will complete my Bachelor’s degree in just two short years thanks to the University of Mary’s Year Round Campus option. I am the marketing and social media coordinator for the college’s recreation and wellness program, as well as a collegiate DECA member.

When I am not working at the Chamber or attending my college classes, I own and operate my photography business called KP Photography- By: Karly Palczewski.

I started pursuing photography in the summer of 2013 and I have been taking pictures of seniors, families, and children ever since!

12 | Chamber Connection

I am looking forward to all the fun and exciting Chamber events that will be taking place in the upcoming months.

I could not ask for a better community and staff to be working with!

www.bismarckmandan.com

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 2016-2017 Leadership Bismarck-Mandan is now accepting applications for the class of 2017. Up to 18 applicants will be accepted into the program. Participants delve into today’s most compelling issues.

Community experts create issue day sessions on topics relevant to the Bismarck-Mandan area, including: economic development, energy, natural resources, agriculture, human services, law enforcement, military, emergency services, arts, leisure, education, legislation, political involvement, faith, ethics and values.

Most issue days are 1/2 day. Highlights of the program include a full day at the 2017 North Dakota Legislative Assembly, a full day tour of Coal Country, a full day retreat and a graduation ceremony. Following the issue days, the class will divide into groups, select a community project about which they are passionate and work to make that field project into reality.

Applications are available online at bismarckmandan. com/pages/LeadershipBismarck-Mandan. Any questions, contact Cathryn at 223-5660. Applications are due Aug. 1, 2016. Program begins Sept. 21, 2016.

Scholarships Available Thanks to the generosity of Gate City Bank, Exploring Leadership Soulutions-Dave Leingang and Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association, who will be sponsoring scholarships to qualifying candidates.

Please contact Cathryn at the Chamber to find out more about a Leadership Bismarck-Mandan scholarship.

Graduates of Leadership Bismarck-Mandan, Class of 2016.

LBMAA DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD Each year Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association recognizes one of its own who has used leadership knowledge and skills to benefit BismarckMandan, in turn serving as examples to others.

The 2016 LBMAA Alumna of the Year is Renee Stromme. As Executive Director of ND Women’s Network, she is the driving force behind "We Rise" and "Ready to Run". She works with the issues of human and sex trafficking and was named one of 10 White House Champions of Change for Women and Working Families. She was recently honored at the White House by the President of the United States.

According to her nomination, “Renee Stromme lives her convictions. She makes no noise about her work.

She lets the results speak for her. And the results are loud and clear. Renee Stromme’s leadership has improved the lives of women and families throughout the state. She has distinguished herself as leader to be recognized.”

Chamber Connection | 13

CHAMBER

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TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER

We are one month away from kicking off the Chamber’s 16-week Total Resource Campaign (TRC)! During this campaign we take the time to introduce business members to the value of their Chamber membership. It is also a way for you as members to select the programs and advertising opportunities that are most beneficial to your business. This is an opportunity to ensure you are getting a return on your investment and marketing your business to the fullest.

Renewing sponsors have the right of first refusal for their sponsorships from the previous year; this is what we call the “renewal period.” The 2016 renewal period will begin on Monday, August 1st and end at 11:59 PM on Wednesday, August 31st. Starting on September 1st, all sponsorships that have not been renewed are up for grabs by anyone, so be sure to return all renewal contracts in on time to secure your sponsorships for 2017. The TRC campaign will conclude on Friday, November 18th.

If you are a member business that hasn’t sponsored an event in the past, you will be approached to discuss involvement opportunities and the benefits of event sponsorships. The Chamber has a wide variety of events and there is truly something for everyone. This method is designed to make sponsorship easier for you. Also, our annual TRC allows the Chamber staff to focus and budget for our upcoming programs, promotional materials, job creation and retention, advocate for businesses, and ensure prosperity and economic growth.

Keep an eye out for renewal contracts and if you don’t receive one please let us know. If you have any questions on the TRC renewals, event sponsorship, or Chamber involvement in general, please contact Amanda Schwieters, Membership Service Director, at aschwieters@bismancc.com or by calling 701-223-5660.

*There is no right of first refusal for monthly Membership Mixers.

14 | Chamber Connection

STUDENT CHAMBER SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED

More than a decade ago the Student Chamber of Commerce was started to engage young adults in a leadership program at the high school level. It was designed to nurture and enhance the skills of students from our community who wish to become involved in impacting the future. It has been endorsed by all of the community’s high schools, both public and private.

It is designed for high school juniors and seniors to acquaint students with the community, develop and enhance leadership skills, provide opportunities to network with business and community leaders, and encourage young people to remain in or return to the community.

Five years ago, the Chamber and our committee decided to start awarding a $500 scholarship to a Student Chamber member who has been extremely active for both their junior and senior years.

This year, we are proud and pleased to announce that the Bismarck-Mandan Student Chamber of Commerce scholarship was awarded to Abbie Morlock from St. Mary’s Central High School. Congratulations, Abbie!

Chamber President, Scott Meske, presents Abby Morlock with the Student Chamber Scholarship Award.

www.bismarckmandan.com

TEE-RIFIC DAY FOR CHAMBER GOLF SCRAMBLE

Another successful Golf Scramble is in the books and we are so thankful for the sunny, mosquito free weather! The 26th Annual Golf Scramble was hosted at Prairie West Golf Course in Mandan on Monday, June 9th, starting with an 11:30am shotgun start. We had an excellent turn out with 116 participants signing in at registration. Our wonderful hole sponsors entertained, rehydrated and provided snacks throughout the day. Great conversation and networking added to the overall experience. Again, thank you to Brad Olson and the entire Prairie West Golf Course for the wonderful work they did. We appreciate your accommodations and making this event so much fun! Also, thank you to all the participants who golfed in our Scramble!

The evening wrapped up with a delicious dinner provided

by Baymont Inn & Suites, while we announced team winners and our sponsor door prize giveaways. Thanks again, to our hole sponsors for providing such great prize opportunities!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR CHAMBER GOLF SCRAMBLE WINNERS! First Place Gross: Matt Baumgartner, Ryan Skore, Nate Palczewski & Fred Fridley Second Place Gross: Jon Tonneson, Aaron Lauinger, Mike Dora & James Klundt Third Place Gross: Aurther Jerome, Brad Balerud, Stacy Keller & Richard Keller First Place Net: Lynn Zuroff, Phil Nelson, Casey Aubol & Jason Schmidt Second Place Net: Shannon Gangl, Jeff Brandt, Brandon Wilkens & Mike Schaff Third Place Net: Jeremy Severson, Dustin Erhardt, Tonya Holmstrom & Bethany Stockdill

Lastly, thank you to all our amazing sponsors! We truly appreciate your support in continually making this event great!

Presenting Sponsor: Lunch Sponsor: Ulteig and North American Coal Corp.

Putting Green Sponsor: Liberty Business Systems Tee Prize Sponsor: Century 21 Landmark Realty Golf Cart Sponsor: EAPC Architects Engineers Hole Sponsors: Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Baymont Inn & Suites, BNC National Bank, Century 21 Landmark Realty, Cellular Communications, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Ameripride Linen & Apparel, Eide Bailly LLP, Odney, Starion Financial, The Network Center, McQuade Distributing, Jerome Distributing, Bobcat Hockey, City Air Mechanical, The Window & Door Store and Eide-Ford Lincoln.

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When this farm implement dealer needed advice and support, American took inventory to help Northern Plains grease the economic engine. Consider us a 3-in-1 partner, dedicated to helping your small business get the banking, coverage and asset management it needs to thrive.

Watch how American helps any way we can at YouTube.com/ABCweareamerican

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Chamber Connection | 15

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MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BELCASTLE MANAGEMENT

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Tuesday, July 19, 2016 Citadel Apartments 119 Irvine Loop, Bismarck 4:30PM - 6:30PM Free to Attend

Chamber members are invited to join us at this month’s Membership Mixer at Belcastle Citadel Apartments on 119 Irvine Loop in Bismarck! You don’t want to miss this fun time on Tuesday, July 19th from 4:30pm - 6:30pm.

You will have a great time unwinding with chilled refreshments, light hors d’oeuvres and a laid back networking opportunity. You’ll also have the opportunity to tour their newest Belcastle apartments that were designed specifically with your four legged friends in mind!

Don’t miss this event that’ll surely make a splash! RSVP online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events/calendar or contact Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com.

LBMAA SOCIAL SWAGGER

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, July 21, 2016 Downtown Bismarck Registration at Blarney Stone Pub 408 E. Main Avenue, Bismarck 5:30PM - 9:30PM $20.00

The Tiki Tour is here! Join us for an evening of social swagger in downtown Bismarck. Your $20.00 Tiki Ticket gets you drink discounts at each bar. Coors Light, Miller Lite, Blue Moon and Summer Shandy will be on special for this Hawaiian/Tiki-themed evening. Wear your Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts and hula around downtown.

LUAU STOPS: Blarney Stone Pub - $3.50 pints for beers on special –

Appetizers Available Peacock Alley American Grill - $3.50 pints for beers on special JL Beers - $3.50 pints for beers on special The Pond - $3.50 pints for beers on special Free taxi service will be available at the end of the night compliments of Jerome Distributing and LBMAA. The cost for attending is $20.00 per person and includes appetizers. Register online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or by calling the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

Sponsors:

16 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com AT THE

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Presenting Sponsor:

We appreciate your membership and support throughout the year, so in honor of our amazing business members, committee members, and volunteers, please accept this small token of appreciation!

Friday, August 5, 2016 Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck 11:30AM - 1:00PM Free to Chamber Members

Mark your calendars and don’t miss our 2nd Fridays at the Chamber appreciation luncheon, on August 5th from 11:30pm – 1:00pm. The food is provided by Cloverdale Foods and Cash Wise Foods. There will be brats, pulled pork, assortment of cookies, cool refreshments and an array of sides. There is no cost to attend so stop in for a quick bite on the Chamber patio and mingle with other fellow Chamber members.

Thanks again to our presenting sponsor, Daniel Companies, for making this event possible!

The patio was packed at the first Fridays at the Chamber on Friday, June 9.

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The

Sporting Clays

SHOOTOUT

CHAMBER SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Friday, August 19, 2016 Capital City Sporting Clays 12951 71st Ave NE, Bismarck 9:00AM - 2:30PM $100 for Chamber Members $125 for Non-Members

Mark your calendar for a day of fun at Capital City Sporting Clays. This outdoor event is fun for all members, from the casual shooter to those with serious shooting skills. This is a wonderful opportunity to treat your co-workers or loyal clients to a fun networking experience and a chance to win some awesome prizes from Scheels Sports. Cost to attend is $100 per individual for Chamber Members and $125 per individual for non-members. Admission includes shotgun shells, course fees, lunch, beverages and great door prizes give-away opportunities.

Visit www.bismarckmandan.com/events to register or call Amanda at 223-5660 for registration or sponsorship information.

Long Range Sponsors:

Rapid Fire Sponsor: Bremer Bank and City Air Mechanical Pigeon Sponsor: Advanced Business Methods, Century 21 Landmark Realty, Cornerstone Bank, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Liberty Business Systems, Starion Financial and McQuades Distributing.

18 | Chamber Connection

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: HORIZON FINANCIAL BANK

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Tuesday, August 23, 2016 Horizon Financial Bank 1207 West Divide Ave, Bismarck 4:30PM - 6:30PM Free to Attend

Don’t miss next month’s Membership Mixer at our host’s facility, Horizon Financial Bank on Tuesday, August 23rd, at 1207 West Divide Ave in Bismarck. Join fellow Chamber members for refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, and some business after hours. Mixers are free to attend so grab a co-worker and swing by for a casual networking experience.

RSVP’s are encouraged and can be sent to Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com or by going online to www.bismarckmandan.com/events.

www.bismarckmandan.com

AT THE

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Presenting Sponsor:

Friday, September 9, 2016 Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck 11:30AM - 1:00PM Free to Chamber Members

“Summertime, summertime, a warm breeze and a new state of mind!” Can you tell we are excited here at the Chamber about the change in season?! Another thing to sing about is this month marks our first member appreciation luncheon and we cannot wait to serve you!

We appreciate your membership and all your support throughout the year, so please stop in and accept our small token of appreciation. Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, Daniel Companies, we are able to bring this event to you for FREE! Join us and other fellow members for a fun and informal way to network on Friday, September 9th from 11:30am – 1:00pm on our beautiful Chamber patio! We will be serving brats, pulled pork and a choice of sides along with cool refreshments.

Please RSVP online at www.bismarckmandan.com/ events or by calling Amanda at 701-223-5660.

CELEBRATE BISMARCKMANDAN

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, September 22, 2016 Best Western Ramkota Hotel 800 S. 3rd Street, Bismarck 11:00AM - 1:00PM $35.00 for Chamber Members $45.00 for Non-Members

On September 22nd, the Chamber and the Excellence in Business Committee will celebrate local businesses and their leaders for their accomplishments within the community. This year’s 12th annual Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan award ceremony will honor those who have been nominated in the following categories: • • • • • •

Small Business Person of the Year Mike Fink Award for Steady Growth & Profitability New Entrepreneur of the Year Granite Award Outstanding Teachers of the Year Golden Eagle Recipient

Please join us from 11:00am to 1:00pm at the Ramkota. Tickets are $35 for members and $45 for non-members. Registration is available online at: bismarckmandan.com/events/calendar.

Chamber Connection | 19

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TWO REGIONAL ENGINEERING FIRMS JOIN FORCES

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Obermiller Nelson Engineering (ONE) is excited to announce that a Duluth-based engineering firm, Foster Jacobs and Johnson Engineering (FJJ) is becoming a part of ONE. The firms joined forces to provide a strengthened engineering force and broadened regional presence.

ONE will gain the engineering staff at FJJ in Duluth and Minneapolis, MN, as well as establish a presence in Sioux Falls, SD. Combined, they will employ a total of 125 employees across seven cities throughout North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota.

“ONE has a passion for caring for our employees and customers,” said ONE Managing Partner Jeremiah Christenson. “Our culture is unique and it fosters greatness in our work. Within our culture, we have a desire to make what we do better. FJJ Engineering has a similar culture of innovation and a desire to serve their employees and customers better. By coming together, we are able to combine our resources to have a more efficient, well-rounded company that will continue to serve our employees and customers and push for success.”

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20 | Chamber Connection

BSC CHANGES PROGRAM FOCUS TO CYBERSECURITY

Bismarck State College is preparing students for future jobs in cybersecurity with changes to its Computer Support Specialist program starting in fall 2016, when the name changes to Cybersecurity & Computer Networks.

Faculty developed four core classes in cybersecurity to address heavy demand for such skills from business, industry and government.

The core courses are Principles of Information Security, Computer and Network Security, Digital Forensics, and Ethical Hacking and Network Defense.

“The way industry is going, it’s harder to compete if you don’t have some security background,” said Matt Frohlich, associate professor of computer information systems. “The biggest advantage to BSC’s program is students can be marketable and go into the workforce in two years.”

Frohlich said they also enriched the program by emphasizing security in all Cybersecurity & Computer Networks classes. The different focus now qualifies students to obtain a position as a systems security or administrator officer.

To accommodate the new content, a three-year option was added for students to complete the program at a less intense pace. Graduating in two years remains an option.

Students are trained in system administration fundamentals and best practices to implement, administer and secure operating systems and computer networks. Convenient course delivery allows students to take classes on campus, online, a combination of both or to attend live, interactive class sessions through the Internet.

www.bismarckmandan.com

NDSC AND BISMARCK-MANDAN FIRE DEPARTMENTS PARTNER TO IMPROVE CARDIAC SURVIVABILITY RATES

Sudden cardiac In order to develop a tracking system of all AEDs in Bismarck and Mandan, the NDSC is asking businesseswho currently have an AED to report it. arrest kills more than 1,000 people per day across the U.S. and heart disease is the leading cause of death in N.D. To increase survivability rates in our communities, the North Dakota Safety Council (NDSC) is partnering with the Bismarck and Mandan fire departments to In order to develop a tracking system of all AEDs in implement HEARTSafe Bismarck-Mandan. Through this Bismarck and Mandan, the NDSC is asking businesses program, the group aims to increase the availability who currently have an AED to report it. This can be done of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and by visiting www.HeartSafeND.org. Once you report your the number of people trained in cardio pulmonary AED, there is only one more step to complete to receive resuscitation (CPR). a HEARTSafe designation: get your staff trained in CPR and AED use.

"Performing CPR and using an AED within the first three to four minutes after cardiac arrest can increase survival rates from less than 10 percent to nearly 60 percent.

Having more AEDs available and more people trained in our communities can be the difference between life and death for some cardiac arrest victims," says Chelle Doll, NDSC first aid coordinator.

There are approximately 100 registered AEDs in Bismarck and Mandan. The group aims to increase this number so the AEDs can be located in emergencies.

"The key aspect of the HEARTSafe program is to make AED locations known to our 9-1-1 dispatchers.

If dispatchers know where all AEDs are located in the community, they can easily tell a caller where the closest AED is located so it can be used on the victim right away," says Doll. “The Chamber is proud to support HEARTSafe program and encourages Chamber members to learn about it and participate. It very well could save a life,� said Scott Meske, Bismarck-Mandan Chamber President.

Since 1998 Chamber Connection | 21

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UNIVERSITY OF MARY SURPASSES MILESTONE IN VISION 2030 CAMPAIGN

The University of Mary recently eclipsed the 2,000gift mark for its Vision 2030 Capital Campaign. The watershed mark is significant as Mary exceeds $45.7 million towards its Phase I $96 million goal.

“The beauty of this benchmark is that it was a $250 gift,” explained the Vice President for the Office of Public Affairs, Jerome Richter, the person spearheading the three-phased Vision 2030 Campaign of $272 million. “This 2,000th gift epitomizes the success of this campaign: we are blessed to receive gifts of all sizes and so deeply appreciate people’s generosity across the state and this region as they continue to support and believe in our efforts to enhance the quality of education for our current and future students.”

Phase I construction is in full force on campus this summer as three projects continue to progress at the same time with different targeted dates for completion.

The new female residence hall should be completed

by August 1, the new fieldhouse should be finished

by November 2016 and the Lumen Vitae University Center is scheduled to open in August of 2017.

The state-of-the-art two-story Lumen Vitae University Center repurposes the current Fieldhouse and connects it to the McDowell Activity Center (MAC) that will also be renovated. This 80,000-square-foot structure features a new “Founders Hall” with one of the grandest views in all of North Dakota overlooking the Missouri River Valley and accommodating over 600 dinner guests for banquets or up to 1,100 for conferences or corporate and private meetings.

Students cross “Main Street” from Founders Hall into one of the country’s only 24/7 dining centers. Other amenities include an American Bank Center branch, book and retail store, individual conference rooms, student lounges, coffee shop, clinic, Hall of Fame concourse and much more.

Beyond these three projects, Richter says Phase I fundraising continues to move towards reaching its Phase I goal with expected new programs, new scholarships and more renovations — one of which is the highly anticipated School of Engineering to be located on north campus occupying two levels of the current University Hall building.

22 | Chamber Connection

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP

On May 4th, the Bismarck-Mandan Young Professionals Network (YPN) celebrated its 11th anniversary and welcomed a new set of leaders at the organization’s Anniversary Celebration and Awards event. Along with new co-leads entering their positions, members also elected Amber Jensen, a Marketing and Operations Manager at MSA United Way and former YPN ambassador team co-lead, as the next vice president.

Jensen, will serve one year as vice president before assuming the role of president. Stacey Thomas, a client relations specialist at Specialized Cleaning & Restoration, took over as president at the event, while TJ Jerke, North Dakota State Director at the Humane Society of the United States, moved from president to chairman of the network. Eric Flacksbarth, a tax senior associate at Eide Bailly LLP, will also serve as Secretary/ Treasurer on the executive team for a three-year term.

Along with the changes to the executive leadership, the YPN’s leadership team welcomed new co-leads, who serve two-year offset terms with one co-lead vacating his or her position each year. The new co-leads are: Ambassador Team: Jerry Haas, Surface Acquisition Manager at Houston Engineering, Inc. joins Kayla Rettig, Area Manager at Spherion Staffing.

Entrepreneurship Team: Bill Heinzen, Information Security Project Manager at NISC joins Chance Schmidt, Financial Services Professional at New York Life.

Marketing Team: Kari Pollert, Marketing Analyst at Starion Financial, joins Mariah Rittel, Communications Specialist at KLJ.

Professional Development Team: Jillian Lagasse, Marketing Manager at Investment Centers of America, joins Jamie Jackson, Network Security Analyst at Basin Electric Power Cooperative.

Social Team: Katie Schiltz, Executive Team Leader at Target, joins Megan Zerface, Paralegal at Stebbins Mulloy LLC.

Service Team: Steven Richard, Chief Financial Officer at Leingang Home Center, joins Cody Schoonover, Investment Advisor at Starion Financial.

BISMARCK ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE FORUMS

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce, Development Association (BMDA), Realtors and the Homebuilders Association, in cooperation with the City of Bismarck, will be hosting a series of three forums to discuss Bismarck's road infrastructure needs, as well as possible funding scenarios.

The objective of the town hall forums is to examine and discuss the issue of road infrastructure needs in Bismarck. The meeting will be begin with a presentation of infrastructure needs, priorities and possible funding options, and will be followed by a Q&A session. While the conversation will include the one-cent sales tax proposal, identifying and reviewing potential funding alternatives and discussing information on existing infrastructure funding is to be included.

For planning purposes, we ask you to register for one or more of the forums at http://bmda.org/forums. In an effort to address the infrastructure questions of our memberships, we also ask you to submit questions.

With limited time available, not all questions will be used. If your question is not presented during the town hall, it will help refine existing questions during the selection process.

www.bismarckmandan.com

STARION FINANCIAL DONATES TO LOCAL CHARITIES

In 2015, Starion Financial donated more than $875,000 to charities and local organizations in the North Dakota and Wisconsin communities it serves.

During the year, major donations were given to local organizations including Bismarck and Mandan Dollars for Scholars, Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra, Missouri Slope Areawide United Way, Rebuilding Together and Sleepy Hollow Theatre and Arts Park.

“One of Starion’s core values is giving back to the community,” explained Craig Larson, president/ CEO of Starion. “We are proud to support so many organizations that share our mission to build a better community.”

In addition to financial contributions, the bank is proud of its employees’ volunteer efforts in 2015.

“It’s rewarding to see team members living our organizations' values. I am honored to work with such fine, caring individuals,” added Larson.

Please submit your infrastructure funding questions at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GSQJRH7 or when registering.

BISMARCK ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE FORUMS BMDA hosted forum: Tuesday, July 12 8:30am - 10:00am

Bavendick Stateroom, 4th floor, NECE

Question Deadline: July 5 - 5:00pm Realtors & Homebuilders hosted forum: Thursday, July 21 11:30am - 1:00pm Best Western Ramkota Hotel

Question Deadline: July 14 - 5:00pm

Chamber Connection | 23

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MIDDLE SCHOOL SPACE WILL BE TIGHT NEXT YEAR It’s a busy time--wrapping up one school year and preparing for the next. But when you add student enrollment growth, it becomes a more complicated puzzle.

Case in point: we have some elementary schools that have space, but others in growing parts of the community that are projected to be full again.

When students from 17 elementary schools funnel into 3 middle schools, enrollment growth becomes problematic.

DESIGN

FABRICATE

INSTALL

SERVICE

24 | Chamber Connection

In 2012, we knew we would need middle school space by 2017-18. But we surveyed the community and learned they would not approve middle school space at that time when we also needed 2 elementary schools and a new high school to hold 9th graders moving up to that level.

We said we would come back to voters for middle school space and that time is near. Following a 75-member Facility Planning Committee recommendation, the School Board has hired four local architects to do drawings and cost estimates to expand all 3 middle schools and to possibly add an auditorium to Bismarck High and some space to Century. We are hoping the costs are such that we can ask voters to keep the present mill levy in place, as some old debts are coming off, so their taxes WON’T increase unless their property values go up.

We don’t have a timeline for that election yet, but we know it will take about 18-months to build the additions and renovate the middle schools.

Principals are strategizing with their staff members on how to “shoe-horn” kids into those buildings next year (2016-17). Some things that will be in place at all or some middle schools include: • Using team planning and prep areas/classrooms for elective courses for students • Reallocating classrooms from other programs • Using staff work areas for small group instruction • Using the book room in the media center for office space and small group instruction • Using past storage areas for instructional spaces • Having teachers share spaces and travel with carts to better utilize space • Move LD specialists into team areas to make more room for the ED program • Moving the instructional coach to the media center • Adjusting lunch schedules and/or squeezing in more lunch tables • Using the cafetorium, auditorium and/or lunch room for additional teaching space • Converting some smaller spaces to offices for principals/assistant principals • Adding portable classrooms at each middle school; they cost about $10,000 to move • Increasing some class size numbers • Asking students to use alternate routes when moving from encore to core classes to free up space in the hallways.

At a time when we’re preparing for increased enrollment, you may wonder or be asked why the School Board chose to close Saxvik Elementary School.

The 75-person committee also developed criteria for closing schools, if need be, due to age, equity factors, cost to operate compared with dwindling enrollment, etc.

CORNERSTONE BANK TO PURCHASE MORTGAGE OFFICE IN SIOUX FALLS

Cornerstone Bank Holding Company has announced plans to purchase the First Interstate Bank Mortgage Office in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A definitive purchase agreement was signed May 11 with the sale to be closed immediately following regulatory approval.

Ten team members from First Interstate’s Sioux Falls location will join the Cornerstone Bank Team and will remain in their current location at 4930 South Western Avenue. Cornerstone Bank will begin serving First Interstate’s customers as of the date the sale is finalized.

Cornerstone Bank Chairman Gary Petersen says, “We are excited about this opportunity to welcome more clients to the Cornerstone Family and to welcome more experts to the Cornerstone Team.”

BROCK WHITE ANNOUNCES NEW BISMARCK FACILITY

Brock White opened the doors to a brand new location in North East Bismarck in May. Relocating from a small facility on Morrison Avenue, the facility offers customers a wider selection of construction products at its 3420 East Century Avenue address.

Contractors and homeowners will find hand tools from Kraft and Marshalltown, chemical and sealant from BASF and accessories for the construction trade in the naturally lit 1,000 square foot showroom. "We are pleased to showcase the wide range of product lines we carry, including Hilti, Husqvarna and Crafco," described branch manager Jon Zobolotny.

With a team of six customer service, warehouse and sales staff, Brock White Bismarck's new location is open from 7:00am - 4:30pm Monday through Thursday, Friday from 7:00am until 4:00pm and closed Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

www.bismarckmandan.com

NORTH DAKOTA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY

The North Dakota Community Foundation (NDCF) celebrated its 40th anniversary on April 23 with a banquet for its current and former board members, community leaders, and major donors. The organization is also planning several socials across the state for its hundreds of volunteers. The events are sponsored by the organization’s investment advisors. NDCF now manages approximately $70 million in charitable resources for communities, charities and citizens across North Dakota.

“Our mission is to improve the quality of life for North Dakota’s citizens through charitable giving and promoting philanthropy,” said Kevin Dvorak, President and CEO of NDCF since 1995.

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Chamber Connection | 25

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with

at

at

EDWARD SARGEANT

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

Q: WHAT IS 3D AERIAL PHOTOGRAMMETRY AND WHAT IS IT USED FOR? A: 3D photogrammetry involves

using photography to generate a 3D representation of an object or landscape.

Add in aerial photography, and you get the ultimate birds-eye view of realworld scenes. Aerial images can be stitched together to produce measurable documentation for construction, environmental and archeological projects. When taking photos, precise flight patterns are used to help capture hundreds of images with a significant overlap. By comparing each of the images using photogrammetry, a 3D mesh of the location can be generated.

Manually flying around a specific object or building can obtain close-range imagery that is perfect for use in 3D object reconstruction. These make for detailed presentations of buildings, historical artifacts and sites.

26 | Chamber Connection

GARHETT LANGER

2301 University Drive, Bldg 53, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-223-4754

JOEL BLANCHARD, MD at

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

Q: WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO Q: WHAT RESPIRATORY HEALTH BECOME A PRIVATE PILOT? ISSUES DO FARMERS FACE AND WHAT CAN BE DONE TO A: It is as easy as just showing up! For the first lesson, a flight instructor will start by PROTECT THEM? briefly talking about the basics of flying.

A: Because of the environment farmers Then, it’s into an airplane and up to the skies. This is called the introductory flight work in, there are a variety of factors that and helps the instructor gauge how much can affect their respiratory health. the student knows.

Farmer’s Lung is an inflammation of the lung tissue that can cause shortness of After that first lesson, flight students breath and decreased ability to perform start to learn some basic maneuvers strenuous activity. The disease occurs and, of course the art of taking off and when farmers are exposed to moldy hay, landing. On average, students will put in around 10 to 15 hours of flight instruction grain dust and droppings from birds or poultry. A respirator is recommended before flying solo for the first time. This when an individual is exposed to these is a surprise to most people, but at that agents. point, instructors can see their students are confident, competent and ready to Herbicides have been linked to increased be flying independently. Finally, students risk of certain cancers, and pesticides have take a few cross country flights and polish been linked to acute poisoning leading up on maneuvers. In total, students need to death. A respirator is recommended at least 40 hours of total logged flight when exposure to both herbicides and time; at least 20 of those hours have to be pesticides is present. with an instructor and at least 10 hours of Manure degradation leads to the solo time. production of noxious gases such as Once meeting these requirements, methane, which can act as an asphyxiant. students take a written test and a “check These gases take over the space leaving ride” flight. Pass both and the FAA will be no oxygen being present in a confined sending a Private Pilot License in the mail. space and leads to death by suffocation.

Congratulations, you are now an official Training in confined space work and private pilot! the use of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required.

When a respirator or SCBA is suggested, it’s important to ensure proper fit. In general industry, all workers are tested to see if they are medically fit to wear a respirator and if the respirator fits properly.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Ask a Pro with with

with

at

at

DR. DUFAN

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

WAYNE YEAGER

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

Q: HOW DO MILLENNIALS Q: WHAT ARE THE RISKS FOR AFFECT BUILDING DESIGN? SKIN CANCER AND HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF? A: In today’s environment, where everyone is competing for a limited A: Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed worldwide. Many skin cancers are curable if caught early. The major risk factor for skin cancer is sun exposure. Screening for skin cancer can be done both by the patient and by your family practice doctor or dermatologist.

Skin cancers most commonly occur on those areas exposed to sun throughout our life such as the nose, ears, face, shoulders and upper back and chest.

However, they can occur in any location.

The majority of skin cancers are not able to travel to other parts of the body and can be cured with simple techniques such as resection, laser therapy, radiation therapy and others. Unfortunately, some skin cancers are quite serious and are known as melanomas. As a patient, there are risk factors for melanoma that you can look for and bring to the attention of your physician. Things to look for include Asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation and diameter, when great than 1/3 inch is suspicious. The bottom line is, perform regular skin exams yourself, wear sunscreen and protective clothing, see a doctor at least once a year for a skin check, and if you see any of the suspicious signs above contact your healthcare provider. *It is important to use at least a 45 SPF broad spectrum (protects against both UVA & UVB rays) sunscreen.

supply of skilled workers, business owners need to attract and retain the brightest and best employees. You never have a second chance to make a first impression; the look and feel of your building speaks volumes about your company.

In fact, millennials make the work environment one of their top considerations when faced with job offers. This generation, born between 1981 and 1999, became the single largest component of the U.S. population as of 2015. By 2020, they’ll make up 50 percent of the U.S. workforce. And if those statistics don’t capture your attention, consider that millennials will also comprise a larger portion of your customer base as well.

Is your facility clean and bright, with good air quality? Millennials have an acute awareness of environmental issues, for themselves and their impact at the community and global level. How about technology upgrades and space for training? Ergonomic work stations?

Diverse spaces for collaboration or uninterrupted work? What makes an environment more productive and enjoyable continues to evolve, just as people and companies do.

PAT BRUNELLE & BOB R. RPh at

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

Q: WHAT DO I DO TO PROTECT MYSELF FORM MOSQUITO BITES? A: The threat of the Zika virus in our

region of the country is quite small but we should still try to protect ourselves from getting bitten by mosquitos.

Mosquitos carry other more common diseases such as West Nile Virus. Limit time outdoors at dawn and dusk and where protective clothing such as pants and long sleeves. The use of mosquito repellants may be necessary with the most common ingredients – DEET, picaridin (plant extract from peppers) and lemon eucalyptus oil to name a few.

Although many people worry about health risks of using repellents, very few adverse health reactions actually occur if used properly. Some guidelines to follow when using repellents:

• Apply just enough to cover skin and clothing.

• Do not spray under clothing, around mouth, nose or eyes.

• After returning indoors, wash skin with soap and water.

Chamber Connection | 27

COMMUNITY

ASK-A-PRO

NEWS

CHAMBER Perks

Kaylor Promoted to COO At Agency MABU

Beth Schatz Kaylor has assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Agency MABU, a full service Beth Schatz Kaylor marketing and communications firm with offices in Bismarck, Senechal Is An ND, and Fredericksburg, VA. Appointed Securian Since April 2010, Kaylor has served as Agency Financial Advisors Of MABU’s Director of Client Services. In her new role as COO, Kaylor will manage the day-to-day ND Representative operations of the agency, including leading a Mike Senechal has been team of 20 professionals in three main divisions: named a representative with project management, creative services and website Securian Financial Advisors of Mike Senechal development.

ND, Inc., a financial services firm affiliated with the Securian Kaylor is a graduate of the University of North Dakota with a Bachelor’s degree in International Financial Network. The firm is located at 4431 Memorial Highway in Mandan and serves Bismarck Studies and emphasis in business and Spanish. While attending college, she completed internships with the and surrounding communities.

U.S. State Department in Washington, DC, and Walt Mike has a deep background within financial services and wealth management and was employed Disney World in Orlando, FL. Having worked nearly 10 years in the profession, as a Trust Officer with American Trust Center prior she has experience with a number of high to joining Securian Financial Advisors of ND. He profile clients including the U.S. Small Business is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and Administration, the North Dakota Department of as a Bismarck native. He is happy to call Bismarck home with his wife, Rui, and their two boys Max and Commerce, the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and the Bush Foundation Spencer.

Carley Gives Funds to BECEP

The Bismarck Early Childhood Education Program (BECEP) is getting audio enhancement systems and recently completed an office and classroom remodeling project, thanks to the generosity of a former resident and the work of Bismarck Public Schools Foundation’s recently retired executive director Karen Bjella.

Laverne Doris Carley lived near a school until her death in 2010 at the age of 86. Mrs. Carley donated part of her estate to the Richholt school building where BECEP is housed, as she wanted her estate to help fund education.

28 | Chamber Connection

PERKS

Moore Engineering Promotes Luke Arnold

Moore Engineering, Inc. recently promoted Luke Arnold to municipal group leader in its Bismarck office. Arnold has worked at Moore Engineering for four years and was a senior professional engineer prior Luke Arnold to his promotion. He earned his bachelor’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from Marquette University.

Spherion Staffing Promotes Rettig and Baumann

Spherion Staffing has promoted Kayla Rettig to area manager and Kelsey Baumann to client service manager in the Kayla Rettig Bismarck office.

Rettig oversees the general business operations and manages the services teams for the Bismarck and Minot offices. She also specializes in developing client relationships, increasing customer engagement and advocating Kelsey Baumann Spherion’s professional services.

Rettig earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Minot State University along with a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from St. Cloud State University. Rettig joined Spherion in 2014.

Baumann manages the workflow of applicants into placements, including recruitment, prequalifying and skill matching to client job orders for the Bismarck office. Baumann earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and French from the University of North Dakota. Baumann joined Spherion in 2014.

Three Join Bianco Realty

Bianco Realty is excited to announce three new REALTORS® to join their professional Real Estate Team: Chris Braun, Chris Hall and Phyllis Rittenbach.

Braun, Hall and Rittenbach look forward to helping clients with their Real Estate needs, achieving their dream of home ownership and providing a Tradition of Excellence!

www.bismarckmandan.com Promotions, Appointments at Alliance Real Estate Welcomes New Agents Bismarck State College Alliance Real Estate is proud to Carla Hixson has been named

Eide Bailly Technology Consultant Recieve MCSA Certification

Regional CPA and business advisory firm Eide Bailly LLP congratulates Joe Sornsin for attaining Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate certification in Office 365.

Sornsin completed the Joe Sornsin required exams to receive Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification in Office 365.

MCSA certification in Office 365 requires in-depth technical skill and understanding of cloud-hosted business applications. From transitioning to the cloud to application administration, this certification focuses on managing Office 365 business productivity solutions like Exchange, SharePoint, and Lync.

With Sornsin’s certification, Eide Bailly Technology Consulting continues to be a Microsoft Gold Partner and Silver Small and Midmarket Cloud Solution Provider.

GOD's Child Welcomes New Assistant Director

GOD's Child is thrilled to welcome Heather McFall as the new assistant director of development in Bismarck.

In 2001, Heather found herself teaching confidence through movement and dance in her spare time when she wasn't managing an office during the day. Her students began putting her in venues to talk about it on a larger scale. That development of empowering women soon turned into human change work that now spans the country.

She is the co-founder of Christian Hypnosis Association with her husband Scott McFall and has been a teacher, presenter and speaker for the NGH, IHTC and MHS since 2003.

announce that Darrell Desilets and Rob Bechhold have joined our team of professional REALTORS®.

Darrell Desilets

Darrell is originally from Minot but moved to Mandan after the flood of 2011. Darrell has flipped homes and built spec homes for six years, was a top salesman for three years and has experience in sales management.

Rob is a North Dakota Rob Bechhold native and been working the Bismarck/Mandan area for the last 20 years. After having a home built and enjoying the process, Rob wanted to help others accomplish their home buying goals.

Liberty Business Systems to Distribute KIP America Liberty Business Systems has been chosen by KIP America to distribute their award-winning wide format printing solutions. KIP is a leader in the marketplace with their KIP 800 Series Color Systems and has a history of successful black/white products. Adding KIP to the array of wide format products that Liberty Business Systems sells was an easy choice. Liberty Business Systems, which is celebrating 30 years of business this year, is the exclusive KIP, Canon, and Oce wide format dealer in the area.”

SWCA Promotes Baer to Office Director in Bismarck

Sarah Baer was recently promoted to office director for SWCA Environmental Sanford Health Consultants’ Bismarck, North Dakota office. She will manage Welcomes client relationships and Interventional projects, strategically develop Cardiologist Sarah Baer new business, and mentor staff Andrew Carter, DO, in Bismarck. interventional cardiologist, Baer has been with SWCA since 2003, most recently joined Sanford Clinic Andrew Carter, DO recently serving as a project manager and business in Bismarck. He graduated development lead in the company’s Denver office. from Chicago College of She has 16 years of experience conducting projects in Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency anthropology, archaeology, and historic archaeology in internal medicine from Fitzsimons Army Medical throughout the Rocky Mountain West, Great Basin, Center in Aurora, Colo. Dr. Carter is fellowship trained and Great Plains regions. in cardiovascular disease from Walter Reed Army Baer holds a master’s degree in anthropology with Medical Center in Washington D.C. and interventional an emphasis in archaeology from Brigham Young cardiology from The John Hopkins University Hospital University in Utah and is a Registered Professional in Baltimore. He is board certified in cardiovascular Archaeologist. diseases and interventional cardiology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Carter is the inventor or co-inventor of three patents, including the first FDA approved drug-eluting stent. His clinical interests include patients with acute myocardial infraction, complex coronary artery disease and cardiogenic shock.

Dean of Current & Emerging Technologies, a new role at Bismarck State College.

The role was created to accommodate growth and emerging opportunities in key Carla Hixson educational areas. Hixson will oversee BSC’s Transportation & Construction, Computers, Medical Arts & Emergency Service and Career and Technology program areas. She also will be responsible for BSC business outreach activities and career and technical education accreditation.

Sarah Vollmer Since 2007, Hixson has been the associate vice president for Continuing Education, Training and Innovation (CETI) at BSC. Prior to that, Hixson led several startup programs for the college including TrainND, the National Energy Center and Innovation.

Hixson earned a bachelor’s Jay Meier degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a master’s degree from the University of Mary.

With Hixson’s move, Sarah Vollmer has been promoted to Director of CETI. She will be responsible for the college’s innovation initiatives, continuing education, TrainND Southwest, the college’s Occupational Safety and Health Consultation program, as well as BSC’s humanities programming.

Vollmer has been with BSC for 20 years, most recently as training manager in CETI. She holds a bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from University of South Dakota.

Jay Meier has been promoted to associate dean of Student Affairs – a new position at BSC. In his new role he will oversee student conduct, developing processes and policies that pertain to student rights, responsibilities and safety.

Additionally, he will oversee the student judicial process, serve in a BSC Title IX Investigator role and manage the counseling center, accessibility services and student support.

Meier has been with BSC since 1999, when he was hired as career services coordinator. He has been the director of the Mystic Advising and Counseling Center since 2005.

He has a master’s in education, with emphasis in guidance and counseling from Northern State University in Aberdeen and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from University of North Dakota.

Chamber Connection | 29

COMMUNITY

NEWS

ASK-A-PRO

PERKS

Cornerstone Bank North Dakota Long Term Care Welcomes Training Association Hires Keen and Krikava Manager, Compliance North Dakota Long Term Care Officer Association has hired Erin Keen

Cornerstone Bank has named Brian Thompson Training Manager and Stacey Tronson Brian Thompson Compliance Officer.

Thompson has over 20 years of banking and 13 years of Training experience. He attended North Dakota State University in Fargo majoring in Industrial Psychology and considers Fargo his home.

Tronson has over 20 years of Stacey Tronson legal, compliance, and financial experience combined. She is an Attorney, Certified Management Accountant and a Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional. Originally from Lakota, North Dakota, Tronson earned her Bachelor of Accountancy with a minor in Political Science at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and her law degree from Creighton University School of Law in Omaha, Nebraska.

Bianco Realty Sales Awards

as their Education Assistant and Peggy Krikava as the Director of Education.

Keen is a recent graduate of the University of Mary with a degree in Business Erin Keen Communication. Keen recently completed an internship at the Bismarck Event Center. Keen will be responsible for assistant with all education events as the association.

Krikava has been the Education Assistant of the Association since March 2015.

Peggy Krikava Prior to joining the Association, Krikava was the Web Project Coordinator at Sanford Health. Krikava will be responsible for planning and coordination of statewide educational events for the long term care member facilities.

Sigler Earns ABR Certification In Therapeutic Medical Physics

Widmer Roel Hires Huether as a Staff Accountant

Jessica Huether has joined the accounting department of Widmer Roel, a public accounting and business Jessica Huether advisory firm with offices in Bismarck, Fargo and Hazen.

Huether as a staff accountant provides tax, payroll and bookkeeping services.

She has a bachelor’s degree from Dickinson State University.

Kessler Awarded IT Scholarship

Zach Kessler, Bismarck State College, achieved top honors in the internetworking college division at the state SkillsUSA competition April 17-19 in Bismarck.

Kessler received a $1,000 scholarship sponsored by the Information Technology Council of North Dakota (ITCND).

ITCND sponsored the scholarships as part of its IT Career Awareness Program. The goal of the program is to inform students, parents and educators of the state’s IT career opportunities in an effort to secure an IT workforce into the future.

Michael Sigler, a medical physicist working at the Bismarck Cancer Center, has earned his certification in therapeutic medical physics from the American Board of Radiology (ABR).

Sigler’s board certification demonstrates exceptional expertise in medical physics. It reflects his knowledge, experience, and skills in his field and show his commitments to the values of compassion, Sarah Peterson patient-centeredness, and a passion for education. The Melvie Becomes An Ameriprise ABR is a recognized leader in advancing patient care, Financial “Diamond Ring Club” continuously improving the professional standards Member through certification.

Loren Melvie, a Private Sigler joined the Bismarck Cancer Center as a Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Medical Physicist in July 2015. He graduated from Financial, has earned Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science membership in the company’s in Physics and received his Master of Science degree Diamond Ring Club. in Radiological Physics from Wayne State University.

Jodi Hart Advisors earn this prestigious Sigler completed his Medical Physics Residency at distinction by achieving years of Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, NY. consistently high performance Loren Melvie that includes an exceptional Eide Bailly Technology commitment to financial planning and superior client Consultant Receives service.

Salesforce Certification Being a part of the Ameriprise Financial Diamond

Regional CPA and business Ring Club is considered a career milestone advisory firm Eide Bailly LLP achievement. Less than seven percent of Ameriprise Lorie Thom congratulates Fred Bairn on

advisors have earned the Diamond Ring distinction. becoming a Salesforce Certified Fred Bairn Melvie was one of only 65 advisors to achieve this Platform Developer. status in 2015 and was recognized at the 2016 Salesforce Platform Developer National Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

I certification recognizes one’s expertise in building custom applications using the Force.com platform.

Covering Force.com programming fundamentals, data modeling, and security, this certification requires demonstrated skill and thorough understanding of Peggy Valnes developing custom applications and interfaces using Apex and Visualforce to effectively extend a client’s Salesforce solution.

30 | Chamber Connection Bianco Realty has named Shirley Thomas and Tori Mathern "REALTORS® of the Month"! Thomas and Mathern had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty for the month of May 2016. Thomas has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Mathern has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2011.

Kirkwood Bank & Trust Announces Promotions

Kirkwood Bank & Trust is pleased to announce the following promotions.

Sarah Peterson has been promoted to Electronic Banking Specialist. She has been with the bank since 2004.

Peterson, a native of Mandan, has previously worked as Head Teller and most recently Bookkeeper.

Jodi Hart has been promoted to Bookkeeper. She joined the bank in 2012 as a Teller. Hart is a graduate of BSC and ND State College of Science.

Lorie Thom has been promoted to Mortgage Receptionist. She is a native of Oregon and a graduate of Bob Jones University. Thom joined the bank in 2015 as a Teller.

Peggy Valnes has been promoted to Teller Supervisor.

She is a native of South Dakota, and has been with the bank since 2007. She previously held the position of Head Teller.

www.bismarckmandan.com Ameriprise Advisors Achieve Circle of Success Recognition

Loren Melvie

Joel Bird

Jason Kirchmeier

Loren Melvie, Joel Bird, and Jason Kirchmeier Private Wealth Advisors with Ameriprise Financial, have qualified for the company’s Circle of Success annual recognition program. Melvie, Bird, and Kirchmeier were honored for this achievement at the 2016 National Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

To earn this achievement, Melvie, Bird, and Kirchmeier established themselves as one of the company’s top advisors achieving high levels in production, client service, and client satisfaction. Only a select number of high-performing Ameriprise financial advisors earn this distinction.

Widmer Roel Hires Frederick as Staff Accountant

Krista Frederick has joined the accounting department of Widmer Roel, a public accounting and business Krista Frederick advisory firm with offices in Bismarck, Fargo and Hazen.

Frederick as a staff accountant provides tax, payroll and bookkeeping services.

She has an A.A. degree in accounting from Bismarck State College.

Sanford Health Welcomes Nurse Practitioner

Grady Martin, FNP, DCNP, dermatology, recently joined the Sanford Health Seventh & Thayer Clinic in Bismarck. Martin graduated from Taipei Medical University in Taipei, Taiwan and received her Master’s degree from the University of Mary in Bismarck. She is a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner from the Dermatology Nurses Association and Certified Family Nurse Practitioner from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Martin works alongside William Cornatzer, MD, dermatology at Sanford Health in Bismarck.

Sanford Health Welcomes Emergency Physician

Benji Kitagawa, DO, emergency medicine, recently joined Sanford Emergency & Trauma Center in Bismarck.

He graduated from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Mo. Benji Kitagawa and completed his residency in emergency medicine from Denver Health Medical Center. Dr. Kitagawa is fellowship trained in traumatic surgery from St. Louis University Hospital.

BlackRidgeBANK Hires Mortgage Leander

BlackRidgeBANK Bismarck is excited to announce the addition of Doug Wentz as Mortgage Lender. Doug brings Doug Wentz 20+ years of assisting clients find the best home financing solutions to fit their needs. Doug joins Marita Olson as part of the BlackRidgeMORTGAGE Team serving the Bismarck/Mandan markets.

JULY TELEVISED LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

Tuesday, 5th 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission Wednesday, 6th 5:15 pm Burleigh County Commission Monday, 11th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board Monday, 11th 5:30 pm Mandan Park Board Tuesday, 12th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission Wednesday, 13th 8:00 am Burleigh County Water Resource District Wednesday, 13th 5:15 pm Burleigh Planning Commission Thursday, 14th 5:30 pm Morton County Commission (recorded) Monday, 18th 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission Monday, 18th 5:30 pm Mandan School Board (recorded) Tuesday, 19th 1:00 pm Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Brd Tuesday, 19th 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

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

Chamber Connection | 31

Ribbon Cuttings

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

UNIVERSITY OF MARY GROUNDBREAKING University of Mary Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Future Campus Center - Lumen Vitae.

MISSOURI RIVER INTERCULTURAL FESTIVAL Kim Tirona, Global Neighbors and Human Relations Committee members at the Gateway Mall with Mayor Seminary to celebrate the kickoff event.

DRIVEN RESULTS Pam Emmil CEO of her new business in Bismarck-Mandan and family. Member. Phone: 701-426-7887 32 | Chamber Connection

GATEWAY TO SCIENCE Beth Demke, Lesley Icenogle and Board of Directors at their grand opening for the new Prototype Preview Gallery on 1810 Schafer Street in Bismarck. Phone: 258-1975. Member.

SHOGUN SUSHI, HIBACHI & THAI Rocky Xu, Master Chef, and Josh, Owner celebrating their new ownership and name change at 2700 State Street in the Gateway Mall. Phone: 250-9888. Member.

LOS LUNA'S Mark and Valerie Lune, Owners, at their Grand Opening of their New Location on 108 North Mandan Street in Bismarck. Phone: 226-6127.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES SOUTH Tim Dalrymple, General Manager, and staff at their newly remodeled location on 135 Ivy Ave. in Bismarck.

Phone: 223-9293. Member.

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES NORTH Julie Swanson, General Manager, and staff at their newly remodeled location on 1120 E. Century Ave. in Bismarck.

Phone: 223-9077. Member.

YIM SIAM THAI FOOD

LULA B. BOUTIQUE

Pon Wright, Owner, and Fred Wright at their new Location on 313 North 1st Street in Bismarck. Phone: 751-6333.

Carly Lenihan, Owner, at her new business on 301 E. Broadway Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 223-8012. Member.

Chamber Connection | 33

Welcome new members

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

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

Lakewood Crossing Apartments 4201 21st St SE Mandan, ND Chantal Mack (701) 551-2410 Upscale, Luxury apartments near Marina Bay. Enjoy the community room, library, or relax outside by the fire pit.

Heated underground parking, central air, elevator, plus washer/dryer included.

Security First Agency of North Dakota 3000 North 14th Street Suite 2C Bismarck, ND Daniel Lubbers (701) 250-9001 Security First Agency of North Dakota is a locally owned, independent insurance agency. Products range from home, auto, farm, crop and business insurance, to life, health and long term care.

Timber Ridge Plumbing & Heating Inc. 1512 Basin Ave. Bismarck, ND Todd Backman (701) 751-4131 We do plumbing (new construction, remodeling and service), hot water heat and excavating (septic systems, basements, water and sewer lines.)

OTA 326 East 8th Street Sioux Falls, SD Hugh Weber (605) 413-8436 OTA connects and celebrates the creatives who build community in North DakOTA, South DakOTA and MinnesOTA. We do this through storytelling, curating conversations, building relationships and hosting events that bring together like-minded creative, each of us unique in our passions yet with enough room to raise one another up, understanding that support will only strengthen our communities.

OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE WORKING FOR YOU.

Keep your workforce and bottom line healthy Sanford OccMed No matter the size of your business, Sanford OccMed will partner with you to design a plan that benefits you and your employees. Our team maintains a strong return-to-work philosophy to keep your workforce and your business healthy and productive, saving you time and money.

With the largest network of occupational medicine clinics in the region, Sanford OccMed gives your employees convenient, easy access to our expertise no matter where they live.

Call (888) 600-2378 for your free consultation. sanfordoccmed.com

059048-00109 5/16

34 | Chamber Connection

Karmin's Kitchen Table 4401 Coleman St. Suite 106 Bismarck, ND Karmin Billadeau (701) 202-8666 KKT is 100% locally owned and operated. We are a one of a kind gourmet kitchen store that offers the best selection of cookware and gadgets - all handpicked for you. ''Inspiring Your Chef'' Coalition for a Secure Energy Future 1016 East Owens Ave. Suite 200 Bismarck, ND Kay LaCoe (701) 258-7117 The Coalition for a Secure Energy Future is dedicated to enhancing, preserving and protecting our diverse set of energy resources.

FLAVOR{FULL}

www.bismarckmandan.com

“I have never eaten so many vegetables as I have since I came here!”

— Juanita Ryan, Touchmark resident

At Touchmark, residents say living well means:

Eating healthier What does living well mean to you?

We’re expanding to add two new buildings and additional cottages as well as remodeling several areas within the existing building.

Come see the exciting changes!

• New memory care neighborhood • New memory support neighborhood • Additional single-family and duplex homes with fireplaces, decks, built-in desks, quartz countertops, and underground parking • Remodeled common areas

Learn more: 701-557-9289 • TouchmarkBismarck.com/info TOUCHMARK ON WEST CENTURY Full-service Retirement Community 1000 West Century Avenue • Bismarck, ND 58503 1612811 © Touchmark, LLC, all rights reserved

Chamber Connection | 35

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

Upcoming Chamber Events JULY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BELCASTLE MANAGEMENT Date: 7/19/2016 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Belcastle Apartments – 119 Irvine Loop, Bismarck

Alumni AT THE

LBMAA SOCIAL SWAGGER

Date: 7/21/2016 • Time: 5:30pm - 9:30pm Location: Downtown Bismarck - Registration at Blarney Stone Pub

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER

Date: 8/5/2016 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: The Chamber Patio – 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

CHAMBER SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT Chamber

The

Sporting Clays

SHOOTOUT

Date: 8/19/2016 • Time: 9:00am - 2:30pm Location: Capital City Sporting Clays – 12951 71st Ave NE, Bismarck

AUGUST MEMBERSHIP MIXER: HORIZON FINANCIAL BANK Date: 8/23/2016 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Horizon Financial Bank – 1207 West Divide Ave, Bismarck

AT THE

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER

Date: 9/9/2016 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: The Chamber Patio – 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

John B. Brownson CFO/COO Royal Tire, Inc.

smiling customers Get empowered at marconet.com

taking technology further marconet.com

#mpowering