August Chamber Connection

CHAMBER CONNECTION Bismarck-Mandan

August 2017

2017 Publication of the Year

Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Field Projects Yield Big Impact

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Commerce Discussion An interview with ND Department of Commerce Comissioner, Jay Schuler

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Member Profile Anytime Fitness - Mandan

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TRC is Underway TRC is your one-stop shop on selecting programs and advertising opportunities to fit your business.

CHAMBER CONNECTION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Brenda Nagel..................................................................................................................... Chair Ron Day .................................................................................................................... Chair-Elect Wayne Munson............................................................................................................ Secretary Craig Larson.................................................................................................................Treasurer Perrie Schafer ............................................................................................................ Past Chair BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Brucker ...............Railway Credit Union Wayne Munson .................Indigo Signworks Ron Day .................Tesoro Mandan Refinery Brenda Nagel ........Independent Consultant Mike Nathe ............Bismarck Funeral Home Dr. Blake Feil ....................Feil Orthodontics Heather Fried ..........Fried Financial Services Dan Pearson .........................Northwest Tire Nick Hacker ..............ND Guaranty and Title Shannon Reichenberg ........Diversity Homes Chad Hatzenbuhler ...Bank of North Dakota Perrie Schafer ..............Schafer Financial Inc Jeff Herman ................................Petro Hunt Jasper Schneider ..................................NISC Scott Staudinger ..............Cloverdale Foods Molly Herrington ....................................KLJ Chris Jones ....ND Dept. of Human Services Greg Vetter .....................University of Mary Tracy Kindem ..........H.A. Thompson & Sons Valerie Weigel ....Basin Electric Power Coop Craig Larson .............................Starion Bank Jennifer Wilson .....................Kirkwood Mall Kevin Magstad.......Independent Consultant CHAMBER STAFF Scott Meske................................................................................................................ President Annie Bergrud.........................................................................................Chief Financial Officer David Leingang............................................................................ Community Growth Director Mary Masters................................................................................. Office Support Professional Ryan Parsons........................................................................................................Vice President 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

CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber Introduces Workforce Summit Student Chamber Accepting Juniors and Seniors Total Resource Campaign Underway

CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber 101: Maximizing Your Membership Chamber Sporting Clays Shootout Brats with the Brave “Shot in the Dark” Chamber Night Golf

COLUMNS Chair's Corner

FEATURES

Cover Story 4 Member Profile 10 Ask-A-Pro 28 Chamber Perks 30 Chamber Ribbon Cuttings 34 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58502 701.223.5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com CONTACT INFORMATION Content: The Chamber - 701.223.5660 rrattei@bismancc.com

Advertise: Chelse Simon csimon@bismancc.com

MISSION STATEMENT: Leaders for prosperity. Advocates for business.

From financing to improving cash flow, our business leaders are here to help.

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Our Focus Your Success

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Jeff Evink

Dave Mason

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Brittany Lenertz

Nate Martindale

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Chair's Corner

I

t is hard to believe we are already working on the August Chamber Connection.

I hope you’ve all had time to enjoy our summer weather and have appreciated the rain we’ve received. I know the farmers and ranchers are appreciative but still a bit on edge on how the season will end due to the very dry start. Your Chamber Board of Directors traditionally takes a break in the month of July, but it seems like the activities continue on a rapid pace at the Chamber. Here’s a look behind the scenes at what’s been going on this past month and some exciting programs coming soon.

Local issues: In Bismarck, the biggest issue we weighed in on was the reauthorization of the Bismarck Renaissance Zone process. The Chamber, along with other local groups, supported the City continuing to use this economic tool to help attract businesses, and to help continue to revitalize our downtown sector.

The City needed the support of the other taxing authorities before they could apply for the RZ extension, and ultimately, received the official support from Burleigh County, Bismarck Public Schools, and Bismarck Park & Recreation. We are pleased this effort is moving forward to keep our community competitive, and look forward to helping continue the dialogue of economic prosperity for our region.

Leadership Bismarck-Mandan: At this point, we have close to 30 applications vying for up to 18 spots in our LBM program. Since 1989, a seat in the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program has been a highly sought after position, and we are proud to continue to make this program a valuable offering from the Chamber. Look for the list of the 2017-18 LBM students in the September edition of the Connection.

Coming this month are Chamber Member listening sessions, to share with you our road map for the next couple of years – the Strategic Plan. Secondly, and more important, to get your feedback on the challenges you face doing business in Mandan and Bismarck. Whether it’s a local, state or federal issue; or even if you have an idea, we’re looking for your feedback.

Chamber 101 – Maximizing your Membership (Aug 15): This is brand new, and aimed at both new and veteran Members to introduce you to how to get the most from being a member of your Chamber. Committees, networking, advertising and marketing, or issue advocacy, we have something for everyone.

- Brenda Nagel Chair, Board of Directors

twitter.com/bismanchamber facebook.com/bismanchamber @bismanchamber Cover Photo Credit: On the cover (clockwise from bottom): Partners in Planting, Bismarck Forestry Division; Northridge Elementary School, Bismarck Public Schools Foundation; Central Dakota Children’s Choir.

Chamber Connection | 3

FEATURE

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN CONTINUES TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITIES

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

After nearly 30 years in existence, the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program has resulted in numerous field projects that have benefited Mandan and Bismarck. Some have failed. Some have gone on to be highly successful like the Universal Playground in Mandan or art Alley 5.5, in Bismarck. Many are still going strong today.

BISMARCK PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION Renae Walker was in the first Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class in 1989-1990, when field projects were individual.

“I wanted to do a field project that Northridge Elementary received a Bismarck Public Schools Foundation grant for a physical education obstacle course based on the functions of the human heart. had some value to my employer,” said Walker, Community Relations Director for Bismarck Public Schools. “I asked While foundations are common for private schools Superintendent Lowell Jensen for some ideas. He had and universities, not many K-12 public schools have been thinking about starting a public school foundation foundations. At the time, Grand Forks public school that could accept donations.” district was the only one in the state with a foundation.

Walker said it wasn’t tricky, but “It was just trying to explain the need in the community — why a public school district would need or want a foundation. What we say is the foundation raises money for things the teachers want to do that are above and beyond what our budget allow.”

In the beginning, the superintendent would work with the school district business manager to receive donations.

The foundation was merely a receptacle. The next superintendent created a part-time position to run the Bismarck Public Schools Foundation.

Last year, Kayla Effertz Kleven was hired full-time as Executive Director of Bismarck Public Schools Foundation.

The activities of the foundation include grants given to teachers, scholarships for graduating seniors and student support.

“Our schools are great, but isn’t it nice to once in a while to have a caramel apple,” Effertz Kleven said. “That’s what we do. We provide the caramel.”

4 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com Teachers can apply for two types of grants — Innovation Grants for $1,000 or more and Donate for Impact grants of $1,000 or less.

One of Effertz Kleven’s favorite grants was a recent project at Northridge Elementary. A physical education teacher received grant money for equipment like pedometers and stride sticks, that the teacher used to create an obstacle course based on the functions of the heart. At an after school program, the teacher observed other students using the equipment roughly. Effertz Kleven said the students from the physical education class approached them and said, “’Hey don’t do that. That’s our new equipment we got from the foundation.’ They had this immense respect and pride for the equipment they got, and they knew it wasn’t a normal thing.”

PARTNERS IN PLANTING Leadership Bismarck-Mandan field projects that have the most success seem to be those that are tied to the passions of those working on the project. When Mark Finstad completed the leadership program in 1997, he was a banker for Norwest, a Minnesota transplant and a tree-lover who served on the Bismarck Forestry Advisory Board.

In 1997, one-third of the city — core Bismarck — had more than half of the trees. Most of those trees were American Elms, susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease, which first hit Bismarck in 1978. It didn’t take long for the city Forestry Department to get on board with a program to encourage residents to plant more boulevard trees.

Walker said she has some ideas why the Bismarck Public Schools Foundation has lasted almost 30 years, while other field projects didn’t.

“We saw the need,” said Jeff Heintz, Director of Bismarck Public Works, Service Operations. “We saw the benefits by having diversity of species on the boulevard.”

“Because it’s something that the leadership wanted and supported,” Walker said. “I think it’s important for members of the leadership class to ask their employers if there is a project they feel would benefit either their company or the community.”

Finstad’s vision was a private-public partnership to partially reimburse Bismarck residents planting boulevard trees.

The City of Bismarck was willing to allocate $10,000 each year to be matched by the business community.

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FEATURE

In the first year of Partners in Planting, the number of boulevard trees planted jumped from under 400 trees planted to nearly 1,000.

City residents would be eligible for partial reimbursement if they obtained a permit to plant a boulevard tree, selected a tree from a list recommended for the location and had their tree inspected by the city for proper planting. Residents are eligible for $50-$80 of reimbursement and a maximum of $500 per property.

“Mark (Finstad) set it up. He was the brains behind it,” Heintz said.

From day one, the Bismarck forestry department owned the program. Instead of being run by volunteers, Finstad and the forestry division designed the program so that the city would take it over immediately.

“If the corporate (businesses) didn’t sponsor it, then the city wouldn’t match it. It would go away,” Heintz said. “If people didn’t want to plant trees, then it would go away.

If we weren’t here to oversee it, it would go away. It’s a three-pronged approach.”

Since the beginning, MDU Resources and Walmart have been consistent sponsors along with local tree nurseries.

In the first year of Partners in Planting, the number of boulevard trees planted jumped from under 400 trees planted to nearly 1,000.

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“It doubled or tripled the number of new trees we’ve got on the boulevard right now,” Heintz said.

Partners in Planting has also helped with species diversity, according to City Forester Doug Wiles. “(Species diversity) makes your urban forest more resilient to insect infestation,” Wiles said. “As we saw with Dutch Elm Disease, you will lose a lot of trees when a disease comes in. That’s why this program is important…

(It encourages people) to purchase trees that we don’t have.”

CENTRAL DAKOTA CHILDREN’S CHOIR

Karen Traeholt’s field project eventually resulted in — unintended — employment for herself. In 1998, Traeholt founded the Central Dakota Children’s Choir as her Leadership Bismarck-Mandan field project.

“It’s kind of daunting when you start the class, and right away the pressure is on to be thinking of a project, and it has to be approved,” Traeholt said. “We were about 10 years on into the Leadership class. Things had been tried.

People would put together a presentation, and it would be turned down because they wanted to make sure people got off to a healthy start. If you had something that was a proven failure, you got turned down, because they wanted your project to succeed.”

www.bismarckmandan.com Traeholt’s proposal of a children’s choir was one of the few field projects approved immediately.

Traeholt surveyed children’s choirs around the country and eventually came up with a proposal of a choir for grades 4-6, the age group most likely to succeed according to her data.

Traeholt intended to hand off the children’s choir to another group for implementation.

“People said, ‘You’re the face everyone knows. It’s going to be most successful if you are the one to do it,’” Traeholt said. “I felt it was best if I was the one who followed through with it.”

The first budget for Central Dakota Children’s Choir was $10,000, which paid for the director, piano accompanist, sheet music, scholarships and t-shirts. Seed money from Junior Service League got funding off to a start.

“When I left (as Executive Director in 2015), it was a quarter of a million dollars,” Traeholt said. “That’s quite a big impact on the Bismarck-Mandan community as far as the arts.”

What started as a choir for grades 4-6 has evolved into five choirs for grades 3-high school.

Within five years of being founded, Central Dakota Children’s Choir was approached to sing at then-Gov. John Hoeven’s inaugural ball.

“We’re in the capital city, and we’re convenient and we’re cute,” Traeholt said.

Last year, Central Dakota Children’s Choir was approached by planners for the Democratic National Convention. A choir was being compiled of two female singers from each state. Two 8th-grade girls from Central Dakota Children’s Choir traveled to Philadelphia to perform when Hillary Clinton received the Democratic nomination for President.

Traeholt retired as Executive Director of Central Dakota Children’s Choir in 2015.

“I never had concern walking away,” Traeholt said. “A lot of times with children’s choirs you have strong personalities involved.

Most times a choir is started by a director, not an administrator. My role always was administrative. That took the emotional aspect out of it for me. I was very much the dollars and sense bottom line.”

Central Dakota Children’s Choir started as a single choir for grades 4-6 in 1998. More than 20 years later it has evolved into five choirs for grades 3-high school.

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Chamber Connection | 7

FEATURE

A BUSINESS LEADER FOR COMMERCE

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

Jay Schuler was on the glide to retirement when Governor Doug Burgum approached him to serve as Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce. Schuler hadn’t worked a Friday in years, and his game plan for 2017 was to quit working Mondays as well.

Schuler had offered several suggestions for Burgum’s administration on how things could be improved to benefit entrepreneurs in North Dakota. That’s when Schuler said the Burgum administration started calling him about the opening for head of the North Dakota Department of Commerce.

“I was really hesitant to take the job and said no twice,” Schuler said. “The third time I listened and said, ‘Hopefully I can make a difference for the business community in North Dakota.’”

Schuler has been a business-owner since his days as an undergraduate. He started his first business with a professor when he was at North Dakota State University.

Over the decades, he has been a founding investor in GIANT Sunflower Seeds, Richland IFC and Ag America Network.

“My whole career has been starting businesses and running businesses,” Schuler said. “I haven’t had a boss in my adult life. Having the governor as a boss is a an interesting twist to my life.”

Since Schuler hasn’t spent his career in the public sector, he said he is able to bring a different mindset to state government.

“I have had two businesses that have failed,” Schuler said.

“I have had businesses that have struggled and turned around. I have been involved in five businesses that have been sold to publicly-traded companies. I’ve seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Understanding business and understanding the mindset of business owners and having success and failures, is a mindset I bring to (the Department of Commerce).”

As a business-owner, Schuler understands the workforce challenges faced by North Dakota businesses right now.

Things bode well for the manufacturing industry.

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“We have opportunities for manufacturing.

As tech evolves there are more robotics, more manufacturing done with less employees. One of the challenges we have in North Dakota, is hiring qualified employees,” Schuler said.

“As innovation takes over and robotics are put in place, you don’t need as many works, but you need skilled workers.”

Jay Schuler, Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce

Schuler said that being close to raw materials such as oil, coal, agriculture and specialty crops put North Dakota in an advantageous position. The more North Dakota’s value-added industries develop, the more the state is insulated from price swings in commodities such as agriculture and energy.

“When you think about it, we’ve had a recession in oil and we’ve had a recession in agriculture, and yet our unemployment stays very low,” Schuler said. “North Dakota companies have created a lot of value-added manufacturing and value added ag goods in our state.

Revenues are down because ag prices are still down, and yet employment is still high.”

With specialty crops, Schuler points to companies such as his own GIANT Sunflower Seeds as examples of the success of value-added industries. He predicts edible specialty soybeans will have a record number of containers leaving the state this year. High-protein peas are another successful value-added product being shipped out of North Dakota.

www.bismarckmandan.com “It appears that both oil and the grains have hit a bottom,” Schuler said. “They hit a bottom last year, and there have been adjustments made. The advanced technology in drilling for oil and gas is phenomenal. The innovation to get energy out of the ground has been fantastic. Costs have come down. In agriculture, farmers have adjusted with lowers costs. We hit bottom in 2016, and in 2017 we hit a slow up-crawl. I believe better days are ahead.”

As a political outsider, Schuler said he is free to make the hard decisions.

Although Schuler is bringing a fresh perspective as a business-owner, he said the Department of Commerce already has great programs in place.

Although Schuler may miss his Fridays and Mondays off, he said he is up for the challenges the Department of Commerce offers.

“We have a highly-qualified team at Commerce,” Schuler said. “It thrives on challenges and is known for being innovative and exceeding expectations.”

“North Dakota has been really good to me in business, and I look at this job as a way to give back to North Dakota,” Schuler said. “The state has been good to me, and if I can help the state, I am all in”

“I have no political ambitions whatsoever, and sometimes I’ll make some hard decisions that might not be so popular,” Schuler said. “As I make tough decisions, I will do what’s best in my mind for the state of North Dakota. I may be taken off of a few Christmas lists. So be it.

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Gunner Swanson and Kat Kallis of Anytime Fitness - Mandan.

MEMBER PROFILE Featuring Gunnar Swanson

ANYTIME FITNESS - MANDAN

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

A: My name is Gunnar Swanson, and I’m the Area Manager for Anytime Fitness in Mandan, South Bismarck, Spearfish, and Aberdeen. I’ve worked for Anytime Fitness for the past seven years, and really enjoy that I get to work in an industry that is focused solely on helping others.

Q: Briefly tell us the history of Anytime FitnessMandan.

A: Our Mandan club opened in December 2006. We’ve loved being a part of the Mandan community for over 10 years now, and during that time we’ve had a full renovation of our club, giving it a newer, fresher, more inviting feel. I personally managed the Mandan club for three years (2010-2013), and had the privilege of getting to know so many people in the community through our club. Walking into the Mandan Anytime Fitness always makes me feel right at home, and I think it does the same for many of our members as well.

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Q: What differentiates Anytime Fitness-Mandan from its competitors?

A: Convenience and customer service are really what we pride ourselves on, as well as having an exceptionally clean, encouraging, community-type feel to our clubs.

Being able to workout anytime of the day, 365 days a year is really important for many people to be able to stick to their fitness and health goals. Everyone needs to be able to get a workout in when it’s convenient for them.

Joining Mandan Anytime Fitness also gets you access to all our other 3000+ clubs worldwide. So whether you are in your hometown, or on the road traveling, you can almost always find a club close by to get your workout in.

Having a smaller club allows us to really get to know all of our members, and make sure they feel comfortable coming in and working out on their own. Having the best personal trainers in our clubs help make our members’ fitness journey that much more enjoyable, and gets them to their goals so much faster! We love what we do; helping people get healthy, reach their fitness goals, and making them feel at home in our club! Goals are great, but it’s the underlying emotional motivation behind those goals that’s really important. Losing weight for instance is almost never just about losing weight. It’s about the confidence, happiness, and health that people achieve in their life when those goals are met. We get to be a part of helping our members reach THOSE goals, and that’s really what makes what we do special and so rewarding.

www.bismarckmandan.com Q: How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted Anytime Fitness-Mandan?

A: One of the great things about Anytime Fitness is wherever you go, you can usually find one of our clubs nearby. So with people moving into the Bismarck/ Mandan area, many of those people already have an Anytime Fitness membership from somewhere else throughout the country, and when they moved here, they felt right at home walking into our club. With more community growth comes more competition as well, but that has only helped us get better at the things that we feel separate us from other clubs.

Q: What industry trends are taking place?

A: The fitness industry is really turning more mainstream, as more and more people are becoming informed of all the benefits of exercise, and are finding how investing a little in their health now can pay off in so many ways down the road. More and more clubs are popping up, and all with their own focus and twist on how to get clients the results they are looking for. One of the things we’ve discovered is how much more fun, encouraging, and effective training is when done in small groups. It holds everyone a little more accountable, makes the training more fun with a little competitive feel, and just provides a great camaraderie for our members. So we focus highly on our Small Group Training to help people reach their health and fitness goals.

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

A: There is definitely more competition moving into the area, and we see that as a whole across the country, but that only encourages us to get better at the things that we take pride in; providing a comfortable, exceptionally clean, encouraging, and friendly environment for people to workout. There are so many choices for people to exercise, and we always encourage people to do some sort of exercise, whether it is with us or another club, or just at home on your own. The important thing is that you are getting healthier. That’s the whole reason behind the industry, and we just want to help as many people as we personally can.

Q: What does the future of Anytime Fitness-Mandan look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: We really look forward to helping the people of the Mandan community reach their health and fitness goals in the coming years at Anytime Fitness. The industry will continue to grow, and new ideas will continue to be introduced, but there are some mainstays that people will always look for in a place to exercise; encouragement, a sense of community, fun, cleanliness, friendliness, and the ability help people reach their goals.

Q: Anytime Fitness-Mandan became a member in 2007, why do you continue to renew each year?

A: Being part of the community is one of the most important aspects of being successful as a fitness facility, and being a member keeps us in close ties with the community. We’ve also developed numerous relationships with other businesses in the area through the Chamber, and had the opportunity to do several cross-promotions. The Holiday Mixer is one of the highlights of the year for us, just before heading into our really busy season.

Q: What should Chamber members know about Anytime Fitness-Mandan that may assist them?

A: I always tell people if they are looking at joining a fitness facility, to ask for a free trial so you can see how the club feels to you. Does it feel intimidating? Will you be comfortable in the environment? Are the staff friendly and personable? Will their open hours work for you and your schedule? Are you offered a free fitness consultation to get started? In the end, it’s much more important to ask these questions first, before asking what the monthly rate is. As with all industries, you tend to get what you pay for.

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LEMONADE DAY SERVES UP YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS AWARD On June 17th, 2017, Bismarck and Mandan discovered what happens when life gives you lemons. The answer, you get a community of young entrepreneurs and ask them to do something with those lemons. In this case, over 350 youth put together their own business plans and created a little more than just lemonade.

With 50 stands scattered across Bismarck-Mandan this last Lemonade Day, it is safe to say that lemonade was not a niche market that day. The community was invited to purchase as much lemonade as possible in efforts to support the participating youth who created businesses geared around selling lemonade in unique ways.

After it was all said and done, we contacted these business owners for their stories in hopes of finding the most unique business plan with a great story to award as our Young Entrepreneurs of the Year, and we found them.

M & I’s Lemonade Shack opened up for business on a rainy Saturday, outside Lillian’s, in downtown Bismarck.

Owned and operated by siblings, Macie and Isaac Grendahl, this small business specialized in professional customer service with a splash of lemonade. Served in a pineapple to-go cup, their Poppin’ Pineapple Lemonade was a hit, which drove the business to a successful selling out of their products.

Guided along with the help of their parents, Macie and Isaac set goals, created a plan and put that plan to action. Late comers to the program, they heard about the opportunity from their mother a week before the event.

Wasting no time, they began researching the program and created a partnership with their business mentor, Susan Schwieters – owner of Lillian’s in Bismarck.

“They had their little speech all prepared for me.”

Schwieters said. “So, they read and introduced themselves and shook my hand and then they asked if they could have their lemonade stand in front of Lillian’s… It was way fun to see their enthusiasm. We collaborated quite a bit in a short amount of time as both they and I came into this late.” Together they put the final touches on their lemonade business and prepared for the big day.

“We think we did well by partnering up with Susan, and choosing a downtown location.” Macie and Isaac said.

“Our location was very busy with people walking by. We had a great pineapple lemonade recipe that customers loved. We also sold special pineapple cups and sold out of everything we had by 2:15pm!”

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Macie and Isaac Grendahl proudly show off their Young Entrepreneurs of the Year Award, an honor achieved through June 17th’s Lemonade Day

When asked what they learned from this experience, they said this, “We both want to be business owners one day.

This was a great experience for us to see how much work goes into owning your own business.”

Congratulations to this year’s Young Entrepreneurs of the Year, Macie & Isaac Grendahl for their business, M & I’s Lemonade Shack!

Main Squeeze Sponsors:

Fresh Squeeze Sponsors:

Media Sponsor:

Lemon Head Sponsors: American Bank Center, Bartlett & West, Bismarck Aero Center, Doosan/Bobcat, Eide Bailly LLP, Exploring Leadership Soulutions, First Western Bank & Trust, Northern Improvement, Co., The Mortgage Co., Mr. Squeegee Window Cleaning, Inc., Superpumper Inc., Trademark Realty, Inc., University of Mary - Tharaldson School of Business, Bismarck-Mandan Young Professionals Network.

www.bismarckmandan.com

CHAMBER INTRODUCES WORKFORCE SUMMIT IN OCTOBER 2017

Presented by the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber and Doosan Bobcat, the 2017 Workforce Summit will provide our region the opportunity to access resources and to be included in a discussion of workforce issues and solutions with industry leaders.

The 2017 Bismarck-Mandan Chamber Workforce Summit areas of focus include:

• Encouraging and improving coordination between employers and educators.

• Closing the workforce skill gap in our region.

• Creating a positive culture in your organization.

The economic strength of Bismarck-Mandan, and North Dakota, is unquestionably connected to the education and skills of our community. A diversely skilled and educated workforce further enables our region’s ability to be economically competitive on a local, national and global level.

Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce Employers, educators and professionals are encouraged to attend the 2017 BismarckMandan Chamber Workforce Summit on Tuesday, October 24 at the Radisson Hotel. In addition to relevant keynote speakers and panel discussions, the 2017 Workforce Summit will feature workshops to provide attendees with insight into the various opportunities and challenges of workforce development.

workforce

Summit

To learn more or to RSVP, visit bismarckmandan.com or contact Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com.

Presenting Sponsors:

Gold Sponsor:

Table Sponsor: Wallwork Truck Center

Chad Johnson Bismarck Market President

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SCHWIETERS EARNS AMBASSADOR OF THE QUARTER Congratulations to Nick Schwieters, Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce’s, second quarter ambassador for 2017!

Nick is the Area Director for Life on the Horizon and Missouri Bay Living. Originally born in Hopkins, MN but raised in Bismarck ND, Nick decided to move back to Bismarck four years ago to pursue a new career opportunity, and establish roots.

When he is not working you will usually find Nick appreciating art in almost any form, but movies are the main thing that attracts him. “I find stand-up comedy to be a bold form of expression, and I love to see different styles of it! Being in front of an audience is fun for me, I feed off of the energy that large groups of people bring!” Nick has also come to enjoy travel in his spare time.

in the

CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH MANDAN MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 5:30PM - SOCIAL 6:30PM - TWILIGHT START

Sign up your team online at www.bismarckmandan.com 14 | Chamber Connection

“Being in a walkable downtown city inspires me, and excites me! There never seems to be an end to new experiences when I am in a diverse area like that! Large cities show me what humanity is capable of creating when we need to, but more interestingly, when we simply want to! It is what I hope Bismarck to become; a diverse, forward-thinking, proactively-building community with many options for self-expression.”

When asked why he likes being a Chamber Ambassador Nick explains, “Being an Ambassador with the Bismarck – Mandan Chamber of Commerce allows me to meet a fantastic group of people from all different walks of life. I enjoy seeing entrepreneurship blossom in our community! The Chamber of Commerce puts me front and center when it comes to meeting these business owners, and allows me to learn about all sorts of different types of businesses and the people who operate them!”

Congratulations again, from the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce staff! We appreciate your dedication to ribbon cutting celebrations, open house ceremonies, monthly Membership Mixers and volunteering your time when extra assistance is needed.

Thank you for all you do for the committee and our business community!

www.bismarckmandan.com

JUNIORS AND SENIORS SOUGHT FOR STUDENT CHAMBER

The BismarckMandan Chamber of Commerce and the Excellence in Business and Education Committee are now accepting applications for the Student Chamber’s 2017/2018 program! Open to Juniors and Seniors in all Bismarck-Mandan high schools, the Student Chamber program is a great way to educate our budding graduates on local issues and initiatives that are going on in our community that they otherwise would not be aware of.

Leadership and career development, financial literacy, and college readiness are some of the skills and education they will benefit from through this program.

The students will meet one day a month, for 2 hours out of school. We rotate each month so students do not have to miss the same classes each month. The program will include six board meetings in addition to an opening and closing event. This program is an honorable activity for students to list on college applications and job resumes.

You’ll be surprised by Capital Credit Union’s lending capacity.

When it comes right down to it, all you have to do is remember one thing about us; we just love giving loans to businesses like yours.1 Whether you need startup capital, you’re expanding or remodeling, or have major capital needs, Capital Credit Union can help.

The application process is simple. The application form, which includes an essay of 200 words or less can be found at, www.bismarckmandan.com/pages/EBEC. The applications will be given to the Excellence in Business and Education Committee for final decision. Students are encouraged to apply regardless of grades. If you are interested in your community and have an interest in civic activities, please apply.

Stop by our Main Office or call today to see how we can partner together for your business.

Deadline to apply is September 11th, 2017!

Myron Aune

For any questions or interest in the Student Chamber program, please contact David Leingang at the Chamber, 701-223-5660 or dleingang@bismancc.com.

Business Services Manager NMLS# 630547

Brad Shetler

Business Services Officer NMLS# 744427

204 W. Thayer Ave., Bismarck • 255-0042

Chris Barry

Business Services Officer NMLS# 1539813

It’s Not Just Business. It’s Personal.

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Based on credit approval. Federally insured by NCUA.

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TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN IS HERE!

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To t a l R e s o u r c e C a m p a i g n 2 0 1 8 Yo u r F u t u r e i s O u r F o c u s

It’s TRC (Total Resource Campaign) time! During this 16week campaign we take the time to introduce business members to the value of their Chamber membership and is a way for you as members to select the programs and advertising opportunities that are most profitable for 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 2018 renewal period began on Tuesday, August 1st and will end on Tuesday, September 5th. Starting on September 6th, 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 2018. The TRC campaign will conclude on Monday, November 13th.

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 truly is 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 your renewal contracts and if you did not receive yours 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.

16 | Chamber Connection

PULL AND SHOOT WITH THE CHAMBER

August is here, which means the Chamber Sporting Chamber Sporting Clays Clay Shoot is SHOOTOUT around the corner!

Don’t miss your opportunity to participate in a day of fun at North Dakota’s premier sporting clays, skeet and shotgun facility, Capital City Sporting Clays. This outdoor event on Friday, August 25th is fun for all members, from the casual novice shooter to those with mad 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 door prizes. Enjoy a delicious lunch catered by Famous Dave’s and some cool refreshments to wrap-up the afternoon.

The

Each team will consist of five shooters. If you’d like to shoot, but don’t have a team, we will gladly assign you to another group of shooters. Registration starts at 9:00am with a shot gun start at 9:45am. Cost to attend is $125 for general admission or $100 for members. Admission includes 12 and 20 gage shotgun shells, ear plugs, course fees, lunch, beverages, and great door prize giveaway opportunities.

Visit www.bismarckmandan.com/events to register or call Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com for registration or sponsorship information.

Presenting Sponsor:

Long Rang Sponsors:

Rapid Fire Sponsor: City Air Mechanical and The Window and Door Store Pigeon Sponsor: Advanced Business Methods, Amy Hullet - Century 21 Landmark Realty, Cornerstone Bank, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Famous Dave’s HH Gun Shop, Liberty Business Systems and McQuades Distributing.

www.bismarckmandan.com

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT AT CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF SCRAMBLE Don’t miss this full moon social! On Thursday, September 7th, at the Mandan Municipal Golf Course the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce will be hosting our 2nd Annual “Shot in the Dark”, Chamber Night Golf Scramble! After a successful first year, and some experience under our belt, we look forward to bringing our members another fun event! Whether you are a novice golfer or a pro, this four person scramble will be a great time for anyone looking for a laid-back networking experience. The social and registration will kick-off at 5:30pm, followed by a twilight shotgun start at 7:00pm. Sign up as a team or individually to be placed with other participants, but don’t wait too long, because there is a limited number of players available.

Let’s show the world what we can do together.

Day by day. Project by project.

Together we’re improving mobility and moving the world forward.

As a participant you’ll receive dinner, two glow balls, a necklace, and other light up gear to help guide you through the course.

To get registered contact Karly at karlyp@bismancc.com or Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com.

Presenting Sponsor:

Putting Green Sponsor:

Hole Sponsors:

Event Sponsor: Digital Office Centre

Building a Better World for All of Us Engineers | Architects | Planners | Scientists

sehinc.com • 701.354.7172 Chamber Connection | 17

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AT THE

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER

Date: Friday, August 4, 2017 Location: Chamber of Commerce Patio

1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM Admission: Free to Chamber Members Presenting Sponsor:

If you did not have an opportunity to make June’s luncheon, then join us this month for our 2nd luncheon of the season. The Chamber staff would love to say thank you for everything you’ve done for us and continue to do for the business community. Whether it’s your membership, committee involvement or event support; we appreciate everything you do!

Stop by Friday, August 4th from 11:30am -1:00pm and enjoy some brats, carnitas, an assortment of sides’ and some cool refreshments. This is a wonderful opportunity to mingle with fellow Chamber members, play some yard games and relax on our patio.

Please RSVP online at www.bismarckmandan.com/ events or by emailing Amanda at aschwieters@ bismancc.com.

Lunch Sponsors:

18 | Chamber Connection

CHAMBER 101

Date: Tuesday, August 15, 2017 Location: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce

1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 4:00PM - 5:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Are you interested in learning how to make the most of your membership? Save the date and join us at the Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce to hear from Chamber staff about our programs, benefits, committees, and other opportunities on how to maximize your membership. Whether you are a brand new member, a long-time member or just want to learn more about membership this is the event for you!

Register today and enjoy some refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres. Space is limited so please let us know if you will be attending by contacting the Chamber at 701-223-5660 or by emailing Amanda at aschwieters@ bismancc.com.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Chamber

The

Sporting Clays

SHOOTOUT

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BARTLETT & WEST

Date: Thursday, August 17, 2017 Location: Bartlett & West

3456 E. Century Ave, Bismarck Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend Don’t miss this month’s Membership Mixer hosted at Bartlett & West on Thursday, August 17th at their new location on 3456 E. Century Ave in Bismarck. Members of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber will have the opportunity to tour their new facility, a chance to win some door prizes, enjoy some delicious treats and unwind with cool refreshments and great company!

RSVPs are appreciated and can be made online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events/calendar or by emailing Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com.

SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT

Date: Friday, August 25, 2017 Location: Capital City Sporting Clays

12951 71st Ave NE, Bismarck Time: 9:00AM - 2:30PM Admission: $100.00 for Chamber Members

$125.00 for General Admission Presenting Sponsor:

Mark your calendar for a day of fun at North Dakota’s premier sporting clays, skeet and shotgun facility, Capital City Sporting Clays. This outdoor event is fun for all members, from the casual novice shooter to those with mad 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 door prizes.

Each team will consist of five shooters. If you’d like to shoot, but don’t have a team, we will gladly assign you to another group of shooters. Registration starts at 9:00am with a shot gun start at 9:45am. Cost to attend is $125 for general admission, and $100 for member discount.

Admission includes 12 and 20 gage shotgun shells, ear plugs, course fees, lunch, beverages, and great door prize give-away opportunities.

Visit www.bismarckmandan.com/events to register or call Amanda at 701-223-5660 for registration or sponsorship information.

Chamber Connection | 19

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CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF

in the

CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF

BRATS WITH THE BRAVE SHOT IN THE DARK Date: Tuesday, September 5, 2017 CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF Location: Raymond J. Bohn Armory

4200 Miriam Avenue, Bismarck Time: 11:00AM - 1:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Presenting Sponsor:

The Chamber and its Military Affairs Committee invites the community to Brats for the Brave! Help us to show support and appreciate our military men and women who bravely serve our country. Join us for some brats and all the fixin’s, Tuesday, September 5th, at Raymond J. Bohn Armory located at 4200 Miriam Avenue in Bismarck, from 11:00am – 1:00pm, or until we run out!

Join us as we celebrate the new location and Open House for the Military Service Center at the armory with a ribbon cutting ceremony!

We will be joined by local active duty, reserve, veteran and retired military personnel as we provide our gratitude to their devotion to our nation.

If you have any questions or would like to RSVP, please contact David Leingang, dleingang@bismancc.com, or call the Chamber’s office, 701-223-5660.

This free event would not be possible without the following Military supporters and Chamber members.

Lunch Sponsors:

Date: Thursday, September 7, 2017

Location: Mandan Municipal Golf Course

1002 7th Street SW, Mandan Time: 5:30PM - 10:30PM Admission: $70.00 for Chamber Members

$80.00 for General Admission Presenting Sponsor:

On Thursday, September 7th, at the Mandan Municipal Golf Course the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce will be hosting our 2nd Annual “Shot in the Dark”, Chamber Night Golf Scramble! After a successful first year, and some experience under our belt, we look forward to bringing our members another fun event!

Whether you are a novice golfer or a pro, this four person scramble will be a great time for anyone looking for a laid-back networking experience. The social and registration will kick-off at 5:30pm, followed by a twilight shotgun start at 7:00pm. Sign up as a team or individually to be placed with other participants, but don’t wait too long, because there is a limited number of players available.

As a participant you’ll receive a dinner, two glow balls, a necklace, and other light up gear to help guide you through the course.

To get registered contact Karly at karlyp@bismancc.com or Amanda at aschwieters@bismancc.com.

Let’s light up the night!

20 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

CELEBRATE BISMARCK-MANDAN

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: EIDE BAILLY

On September 14th, The Chamber and the Excellence in Education and Business Committee will celebrate local businesses and their leaders for their accomplishments within the community. This year’s 13th annual Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan award ceremony will honor those who have been nominated in the following categories:

Join members of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce during next month’s Membership Mixer hosted by Eide Bailly on Tuesday, September 19th at their location on 1730 Burnt Boat Loop in Bismarck. Enjoy a variety of refreshments, hors d’oeurves, and some laid back business after hours as we celebrate Eide Bailly’s 100 years of success! Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend and anyone within your organization is welcome to join!

Date: Thursday, September 14, 2017 Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center

800 South 3rd Street, Bismarck Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM Admission: $35.00 for Chamber Members

$45.00 for General Admission Presenting Sponsor:

• Small Business Person of the Year • Mike Fink Award for Steady Growth and Profitability • New Entrepreneur of the Year • Granite Award • Outstanding Teacher of the Year • Golden Eagle Award

Date: Tuesday, September 19, 2017 Location: Eide Bailly

1730 Burnt Boat Loop, Bismarck Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend

RSVP’s are appreciated and can be made by emailing Amanda Schwieters at aschwieters@bismancc.com or by calling 701-223-5660.

Please join us from 11:00am to 1:00pm at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center. General admission is $45, and $35 with member discount. Registration is available online at, www.bismarckmandan.com/events/calendar.

Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is designed to promote teamwork, provide solutions and enhance productivity.

Counseling Services • Marital and family • Work-related issues • Emotional and behavioral • Alcohol and drug dependence

Other Services • Management consultations and training • Education and training • Crisis line • Online resources • Informational materials

Employee Assistance Program 701.530.7195 • CHIStAlexiusHealth.org Chamber Connection | 21

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SANFORD POWER ANNOUNCES MOVE TO NEW BISMARCK LOCATION

Sanford POWER, a program that incorporates the latest in strength development, speed, agility and plyometrics to local athletes, will be moving to a new location this fall. The new building located at 3401 N. 14th St. in Bismarck, formerly occupied by Home Depot, will be close to three times the size of the current Sanford POWER building located at 2020 Lovett Ave. in Bismarck.

“We have exceedingly outgrown our current building,” said Mike Salwei, Sanford POWER manager in Bismarck. “This new space will allow us to help athletes improve their performance based on their specific needs and it also gives us the ability to offer POWER to more athletes during the course of the year.”

Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback, Carson Wentz, welcomed attendees to the future home of Sanford POWER.

The new 21,000 square foot building will feature 10,000 square feet of turf, which is larger than the entire current POWER building. This turf will enable POWER to expand the opportunities for more skill based academies for soccer, baseball, girls fast pitch softball and it will also allow room for a future football academy. In addition to the turf, the building will also feature a two-lane indoor track for enhanced speed training, state-of-the-art training modalities and on-site physical therapists. A Return to Performance program will also be added at the new location. This program is an innovative and injury-specific program for athletes recovering from an injury or surgery.

“When you look at all of the activities young athletes are involved in today, a facility like this is much needed in Bismarck-Mandan,” said Dr. Craig Lambrecht, executive vice president of Sanford Health in Bismarck. “This program is instrumental in enhancing youth development in our community. Mike Salwei and his team work with these athletes on an individual level to help them become the best athletes they can possibly be.”

Construction on the new building is expected to complete in October 2017. To enroll in the program or to learn more, visit sanfordpower.com/bismarck.

Mortgage advice from your

community experts Apply online at starionbank.com.

Brittany Stuhlmiller 250-1539 Member FDIC

22 | Chamber Connection

NMLS #1308533

Kassy Landis 250-1551

Chris Fraser 667-1661

NMLS #955313

NMLS #1087631

ST GABRIEL’S COMMUNITY OPENS $25 MILLION EXPANSION

www.bismarckmandan.com

St. Gabriel’s Community announces the opening of its new senior housing community, featuring a nod to Bismarck’s past while showcasing the newest advancements in senior care services.

The 150,000 square-foot, $25 million expansion triples the size of its campus in north Bismarck to meet growing demand for its high-quality senior care services. The addition of senior independent living, assisted living and basic care as well as expanded therapy offerings enables St. Gabriel’s Community to provide a full spectrum of services for seniors, which already includes long-term skilled nursing care, short-term rehabilitation and outpatient therapy.

With the expansion, St. Gabriel’s Community is able to offer a “continuum of care” for guests that provides a range of services on one campus that encourages independence longer and adapts to meet seniors’ changing needs, beginning with independent living and assisted living and transitioning to basic care, long-term care or therapy/rehabilitation as guests’ needs vary over time.

“Guests who join us for independent living or assisted living have the comfort of knowing that when they need a different level of care down the road, such as basic care or skilled nursing care, they can seamlessly transition to that care level right at our same facility.

It creates better peace of mind for guests and their families knowing that they are receiving the right level of care at the right time, with a plan in place should a guest’s needs change and with staff that are already up to speed,” explained Tyler Hoemberg, CEO and administrator of St. Gabriel’s Community. “We treat our guests like family, and as such, believe a long-term relationship enhances the health and well-being of our guests, enabling them to remain independent and live a better quality of life longer.”

#EIDELIKE I’D LIKE TO KNOW WHAT ALL THESE NUMBERS MEAN Accounting is Hard. We can Help.

We’re guessing you didn’t get into business to learn basic accounting principles. That’s okay. We can give you the skills to start or do it for you, so you can start viewing your accounting as a tool, not a burden.

Let’s talk. | eidebailly.com | 701.255.1091

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SCHOOL BOUNDARIES, EXPANSION, REPURPOSING:

WORKING THROUGH ACE: ACADEMICS, CULTURE, ECONOMICS

Contributed by Tamara Uselman What do you do when you anticipate 422 more elementary students in the next five years and enrollment growth is not spread evenly across the community?

Example: north Bismarck and Lincoln continue to grow while core city schools have low and/or declining enrollment. Also, Bismarck Public School district’s ending fund balance is below 10% at a time when we are expanding and state money will be the same or less the next two years.

At the request of the School Board, a group of community and school leaders met to study elementary needs. Their only caveat from the Board was to create a plan without a tax hike or bond. Every other idea was up for discussion.

Committee members spent hours outside of meetings pouring over enrollment projections, building trends, financial data, etc. Their work was guided by the ACE principle. “A” refers to “academics”. I agree with a parent who told the Board, “There is not a bad school in Bismarck”. The “C” is for “culture”. Schools are more than brick and mortar, and committee members recognized that each neighborhood would benefit from having its own neighborhood school. As few people want to change schools and give up their “culture”, it becomes a clash point with “E” which is economics. If the committee didn’t have to look at economics, their recommendation would likely have been to keep building schools and keep all neighborhood schools open even if they did not have enough neighborhood students to fill them or the investment to make an old building equitable was excessive. In order to protect academics, the economic reality of the cost to build and operate new schools vs. remodeling existing schools vs. keeping small schools open came into play.

The team had a very difficult, emotional and uncomfortable task as it wrestled with the following data and questions: o BPS receives $9,646 per student per year in state aid. o 4.0-4.5 section schools cost $7,285 per student per year to operate. (like Liberty, Sunrise, Lincoln) o 3.5-4.0 section schools cost $8,293 per student per year to operate. (like Moses, Centennial) o 1.0-2.0 section schools cost $10,018 per student per year to operate. (like Highland Acres, Roosevelt) 24 | Chamber Connection

o If all BPS schools were 4.0-4.5 sections, the district would save $7.85 million each year. o NOTE: the rumor is BPS will only have 4.0-4.5 section schools; that is not true. The goal is to, over time, make our schools more efficient, e.g. by expanding to add a section (1 level of each grade) to a school.

• Should a neighborhood have a school even if there aren’t enough students living there to run it without busing in kids from other neighborhoods?

• What do we do about small neighborhood schools in neighborhoods which are not projected to “turn over” with younger families for 15 to 25 years when other schools are crowded now?

• How can we keep operating costs the same when enrollment is up, state funding is flat, and ending balance is low?

The group’s recommendation was to repurpose two smaller, less efficient schools--Highland Acres and Roosevelt--for other educational needs like BECEP’s growing early childhood programs, and to add on to other core city schools like Grimsrud and Centennial to provide effective, efficient space. This will not happen quickly, and it will not happen without community input.

Boundary changes were suggested to fill seats in schools that have space and relieve pressure in schools that are crowded. Boundary meetings with impacted families will be held in August-September. The committee did not come to consensus on whether funds should be put into Northridge. School Board members will hire an architect to review Northridge, and they took the Northridge to Will-Moore boundary change off the table as well as the repurposing of Highland Acres.

More community meetings will be held this fall on the remaining recommendations which are posted at www. bismarckschools.org, Quick Links, Elementary Facilities Updates.

None of these issues have easy answers. But the facts are simply that: facts. Take time to review the data the committee was given and share the above link with others. There may be no simple answer, yet we as a community need to do what is best for all students, families, and taxpayers in the district.

BUSINESSES URGED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT SPECIAL OLYMPICS TOURNAMENT More than 400 athletes, comprising 27 teams from across the United States and Canada, will converge on Bismarck-Mandan for the 2017 Special Olympics North America Softball Championship, August 18-20. This is the first time this event has been held in North Dakota.

Teams will compete in both Special Olympics Traditional team and Unified Sports teams (people with and without intellectual disabilities competing together on the same team) formats. Bismarck Parks and Recreation District (BPRD) is working with a group of local volunteers to help coordinate the tournament.

Competition will kick off on Friday, August 18 with the medal rounds and will conclude on Sunday, August 20. Competition will occur from 8 am to approximately 5 pm each day. All competition, as well as medal ceremonies, will take place at the Clem Kelley Softball Complex.

The Opening Ceremonies take place on Friday at 6:30pm at the Bismarck Municipal Ballpark. The Opening Ceremonies will include a parade of athletes, a performance by North Dakota’s own Tigirlily and a fireworks show.

The Opening Ceremonies as well as the entire tournament are free and open to the public. There is no guarantee if or when this tournament will be back in North Dakota, making it a very rare opportunity to see the best softball players in Special Olympics compete.

Kevin Klipfel, Facilities and Programs Director for BPRD said, “We need volunteers to make sure these athletes have an unforgettable experience in North Dakota. We invite everyone to attend the Opening Ceremonies and join in to be ‘Fans in the Stands’ during the tournament play. Many of these athletes will not have family or fans that are able to accompany them to Bismarck-Mandan, so we’re relying on volunteers to fill the stands and cheer.”

If your business, service club, church group, family or neighborhood would like to become involved in this first ever North Dakota event, please go to www. specialolympicsnd.org/softball and click on the volunteer tab.

www.bismarckmandan.com

GREAT PLAINS FOOD BANK RECEIVES $25,000 GRANT

The Great Plains Food Bank announced a $25,000 grant from the Walmart Foundation to fund the infrastructure that will ultimately help the food bank’s network of food pantries, shelters and soup kitchens statewide secure and distribute more nutritious food to families in need. The grant will support investments in the equipment necessary to handle perishable products, such as refrigerated vehicles; coolers and freezers for transporting, storing and distributing food; thermometers and temperature calibration devices; among other items.

The Great Plains Food Bank secures fresh, perishable food from retailers across North Dakota. Funds from the Walmart Foundation will provide 215 partner agencies across North Dakota and Clay County, Minn., with a direct resource to store and distribute perishable food.

The Walmart Foundation has been instrumental in helping food banks rescue and distribute more perishable food from retailers across the United States in a sustainable, cost-effective way.

BRATS with the Brave MILITARY APPRECIATION PICNIC OPEN TO ACTIVE/VETERAN MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THE PUBLIC

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 Raymond J. Bohn Armory 4200 Miriam Avenue, Bismarck 11:00am - 1:00pm

Ribbon Cutting and Open House for the Military Service Centers new location from 10:00am - 2:00pm

PROUD SPONSORS Presenting Sponsor:

Lunch Sponsors:

For any questions, or to RSVP, please call 701-223-5660 or email David Leingang at dleingang@bismancc.com

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U-MARY ANNOUNCES NEW ACCELERATED BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

The University of Mary, North Dakota’s only private Catholic university, announced recently its offerings and launching a new accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program starting (spring semester) January 2018.

“The number of students enrolled in accelerated BSN programs increases yearly,” said Dr. Glenda Reemts, professor and chair of the Division of Nursing at the University of Mary, referencing survey data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

“In 2012, AACN found there were over 15,000 students enrolled in accelerated BSN programs in 255 colleges nationwide. The typical second-degree nursing student is motivated, older, and has higher academic expectations than traditional entry level nursing students. Accelerated BSN students typically do well academically and have high first-time National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) initial pass rates. Because of their maturity, as well as education and life experiences, employers are quick to hire graduates of BSN accelerated programs.”

University of Mary’s Division of Nursing already offers three accredited BSN tracks: an on-campus traditional BSN program; a blended LPN-BSN and an online RN to BSN. This new accelerated BSN program is rigorous, intense and designed for individuals who have completed a previous bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, have graduated from an accredited college or university, and requires a 3.0 GPA on a minimum of 24 credits on prerequisite courses. Curriculum for the accelerated nursing students requires 70 nursing credits and approximately 550 hours of clinical and laboratory experiences. The majority of courses will be taught over a seven-to eight-week time frame from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and completed in a highly compressed 12-month period. Once the coursework is completed, the capstone/practicum course follows over a five-week period for a total of 13 months.

“We will first admit 16 students with the intent of increasing to 24 students the second year,” said Reemts, who added that the application deadline for this new program is August 1, 2017.

26 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

VISION PLAN UNVEILED FOR REDEVELOPING MANDAN’S WEST MAIN STREET

The Mandan City Commission at its meeting tonight received a vision plan for the transformation of West Main Street into a regional destination that could be dubbed “The Railyard.”

Integrating Mandan’s heritage, the plan calls for downsizing and re-facing the former Central Market building, plus new construction of up to two additional buildings on the site to draw more traffic and spur vitality.

Presenters Kyle Kvamme and David Manns of Icon Architectural Group showed conceptual designs for the former grocery building that propose removing and opening its front by adding windows and doors to create one large and six smaller tenant spaces. A suggestion is to explore shifting the public library from across the street into custom renovated space and possibly turning the historic freight house, where the library presently resides, into restaurants and a brewery.

Kvamme pointed out that these uses could complement adjacent activities at Dykshoorn Park, establishing an entertainment district.

Other key elements of the vision plan designed to drive traffic to Main Street are the addition of a multi-functional open market and event hall to serve as a location for sales of farm produce and other locally made items as well as a venue for trade shows and celebrations.

The architects also recommend adding a multi-story, mixed-used building with ground level restaurants and retail plus upper level life-style apartments to help attract young professionals.

The group will come back to the City Commission in upcoming weeks with a proposal outlining an additional scope of services to assist with cost and payback analysis plus collaboration with developers and tenants. Future steps will likely involve issuing requests for proposals to seek private sector investment in and use of certain parcels and buildings.

The City Commission voted in June to purchase the subject properties at 504 W Main Street and 511 First Street NW for $1.5 million. The purchase will be paid for with funds from the Mandan Supplemental Environmental Projects Trust. Closing on the transaction is expected later in July.

Chamber Connection | 27

COMMUNITY

NEWS

ASK-A-PRO

Perks

Ask a Pro with

with

with

at

at

at

STEVE KELSCH

1661 Capitol Way, Suite 102, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-250-9400

Q: WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER PURCHASING A CURVED COMPUTER MONITOR? A: Being in IT is tough sometimes. I had

to purchase a 34” Curved LED Monitor and keep it on my desk forever just to answer this question. I was skeptical about these when I first saw them. Why would anyone care if their monitor has a curve in it? After the first day using it, I was sold.

With this 34” monitor you can easily have three useable windows up side by side for multi-tasking. Believe it or not, it is a space saver. If you compare it to having three physical monitors, this wins hands down.

The best thing is that you only have one connection to your computer for video.

TJ STEWART

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

SHELLY L. WALKER

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

Q: HOW DO I DECIDE BETWEEN Q: WHY SHOULD I INVEST IN RENOVATION AND NEW PROTECTING MY EMPLOYEES CONSTRUCTION? FROM FLU? A: Both renovation and new construction A: The influenza vaccine provides can be cost-effective and sustainable solutions to your building project. There is no “right answer” to this question, but the circumstances of your project, timeline and budget may make the decision more complicated.

protection against several variations of the influenza virus. Influenza should not be confused with the ‘stomach flu.’ It is a contagious respiratory virus with the potential to cause symptoms including: cough, sore throat, fever, headache, body You might want to renovate: if the building pain and fatigue. The flu virus is spread through droplets when an infected meets code and systems are up-to-date. person coughs or sneezes. Another Then, weigh the value of your building’s history and structural integrity. Removal of person can become infected through the air or by touching a shared item. hazardous materials will likely outweigh its character and historical significance.

Even people who consider themselves Although, this type of work can also drive ‘healthy’ can get the flu. However, at up renovation costs. Finally, consider Windows 10 makes it especially easy to a greater risk of developing serious, use by being able to automatically half or whether the building will be in use during sometimes fatal, complications from the quarter windows on your screen. Windows renovation, which may lead to additional flu virus are older people and children, losses in revenue or added costs.

10 also does a good job of remembering pregnant women and people with what size and where you placed a window You might want to build new: if your team chronic medical conditions. has agreed it needs less restriction. With last, so the next time you open that During the most recent peak season program it will snap directly to where you new construction, your team can benefit from incorporating cost-efficient, modern of October through May, the CDC had it last. estimated the number of flu cases in the technology and sustainable building The 34” was around $650—and it was 4K practices. This choice also gives the team U.S. may have been greater than 500,000 (which you don’t really need—it just makes more control over the building’s layout. with deaths numbering in the tens of it more expensive). You can get a 27” thousands.

Note that building new may be more model for about half that cost, and prices expensive than renovating, or could result Employees with the flu miss three to five will drop fairly rapidly as they become in losing out on a prime location. work days on average, using sick leave mainstream. and decreasing productivity.

To make the decision, we suggest discussing these factors with all parties.

Offering the vaccine in the workplace Outline priorities for the use of the makes it convenient for employees, building, the budget available, and any reducing the number of sick days used. additional limitations.

Getting more people vaccinated means less spreading of the flu.

28 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

Ask a Pro with

with

with

at

at

at

MATT LIUDAHL

PO Box 49, Bismarck, ND 58502 701-471-0760

ZACH RONNING

1500 2nd St NE, Mandan, ND 58554 701-214-6309

DR. RUSSO

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

Q: WHY IS A REGULAR WINDOW Q: WHAT KINDS OF QUESTIONS Q: WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER? CLEANING SCHEDULE SHOULD I ASK WHEN A: Prostate cancer is a disease in which IMPORTANT? LOOKING TO PURCHASE A abnormal cells form in the tissue of the VEHICLE? prostate. It is the most common cancer of A: Clean windows make a good men in North Dakota with more than 500 impression. Clean windows present a A: When it comes to buying a vehicle, new diagnoses each year. positive image and convey that your company is organized, professional, and hard-working. They show that you care about your business, your building, and your employees.

Clean windows improve the working environment for employees. Working in a bright, well-lit space will encourage your employees to be more active and organized. Clean windows also provide a better view of the outdoors, which can improve employees’ moods, especially on bright and beautiful days.

Glass can be ruined without regular cleaning. Because glass is porous, it accumulates dirt over time that can cause fragility, spottiness, opacity, and the growth of microorganisms. You should have your windows cleaned at least two times a year to prevent degradation and maintain the glass’s luster.

Regularly cleaning your windows can save you money. If you let dirt and grime build up on your windows, they will be very difficult to clean when the time comes, requiring more work and more money.

The cleanliness of windows affects a space’s heat efficiency. Dirty windows reflect more UV light and prevent the sun from warming up the space on cold days.

you want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your price range. Here are a few questions to ask and items to consider when you’re getting ready for your next ride.

One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

Symptoms of prostate cancer include: • Difficulty starting urination • Difficulty emptying the bladder Buying a vehicle is about more than just price. You want to know where the vehicle • Need to urinate frequently came from if you’re looking at used (was • Weak or interrupted flow of it a demo, trade-in, lease return); gas urine mileage; a Carfax report on a pre-owned • Painful or burning urination vehicle; if the vehicle has 4-, All-, Front-, • Painful or difficulty with erection

or Rear-Wheel Drive; and the safety and and/or ejaculation technology features available. You will • Blood in urine or semen also want to look into the benefits of leasing vs. buying, as well as what kind • Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower of a down payment you would need with back, hips or upper thighs. either option.

Prostate cancer screening discussions If you’re looking at a pre-owned vehicle, should start at the age of 50 with your it’s important to ask whether the vehicle is healthcare providers at your yearly factory certified, and what that all means wellness exam. Men who have increased for you as the buyer. You will also want risk factors (family history) for prostate to ask whether or not the dealership has cancer should begin the discussion for a return policy on vehicles. At Kupper prostate cancer testing at age 40.

Automotive, we offer a five day return and 30-day exchange and provide a relaxed shopping experience with noncommissioned sales staff helping to make a wise choice in a no-pressure environment.

Chamber Connection | 29

COMMUNITY

ASK-A-PRO

NEWS

CHAMBER Perks

PERKS

Marx, Milicevic, Sayler Join Cornerstone Bank in Bismarck

Celine Marx has joined Cornerstone Bank as a Customer Service Representative in Bismarck. Originally from Dickinson, Marx graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in Atmospheric Kirkwood Mall Science. She brings over seven Celine Marx Announces New years of customer service experience.

Specialty Leasing Valerie Milicevic has joined Manager Cornerstone Bank as a Credit

Brooke Miller recently joined Administration Specialist in Kirkwood Mall’s management Bismarck. Originally from team as the property’s Brooke Miller Rapid City, South Dakota, Specialty Leasing Manager.

Milicevic graduated from She will use her extensive retail Valerie Milicevic Dickinson State University with management background to attract new specialty a Bachelor’s Degree in Business or permanent retailers to the center, as well as Administration. She brings temporary tenants over the holidays and through the over 14 years of professional property’s latest concept – the Kirkwood Mall Pop-Up experience.

Shop. In her new role, Miller along with the entire

Brandee Sayler has joined management team, is responsible for bringing new Cornerstone Bank as a events and community partnerships to the mall.

Commercial Specialist in Miller joins the team with familiarity of the retail Bismarck. Originally from industry and Kirkwood Mall. She spent from 2000 Brandee Sayler Timber Lake, South Dakota, – 2013 in management positions with some of the Sayler graduated with honors property’s key retailers. Most notably she was the from Dickinson State University with a Bachelor’s assistant manager and store manager of American Degree in Business Administration.

She brings four Eagle Outfitters for twelve years. She also held roles years of experience in the banking industry. at Bath & Body Works, Maurice’s and Vanity. Couple her experience with her education in business management, she is well positioned for success in the Bianco Realty Sales Awards role Bianco Realty has named Shirley Thomas and Miller resides in North Bismarck with her husband Jim Jeromchek “REALTORS® of the Month”! Thomas and three kids. She assumed her role in May, taking and Jeromchek had the most closed sales at Bianco over for Jennifer Wilson who recently accepted the Realty for the month of June 2017. Thomas has been General Manager role at Kirkwood Mall. a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Jeromchek has been a licensed REALTOR® since 1993.

30 | Chamber Connection

Gustafson Earns Certification to Instruct

Liberty Business Systems, Inc. is proud to announce that Nick Gustafson, Service Field Supervisor, achieved Nick Gustafson certification under the Strategic Partnership In Ricoh Education (SPIRE) Program to become an authorized SPIRE Instructor. Offered to Ricoh Family Group dealers and certified by the Ricoh Services Training and Knowledge Management team, Gustafson can now deliver Ricoh services and technology training to Liberty Business Systems’ team of service technicians.

Kraus-Anderson Adds New Management Staff

Kraus-Anderson Construction Company (KA), one of the Midwest’s oldest and largest commercial general contractors and construction managers, has hired Dan Walter as project manager and Justin Kaster as Dan Walter project superintendent.

Dan Walter previously served as a senior estimator for Construction Engineers in Mandan, N.D. He earned his B.S. in Construction Management from North Dakota State University. He is a member of the American Justin Kaster Society for Healthcare Engineering and Mandan Architectural Review Commission.

Justin Kaster comes to Kraus-Anderson from Ebert Construction in Corcoran, Minn., where he served as superintendent. He attended North Dakota State University and received his associate’s degree in Construction Supervision from South Central College in Mankato, Minn.

www.bismarckmandan.com NDAREC Hires Rausch as Communications Specialist

The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) is proud to welcome Krista Rausch as the newest addition to its staff. Rausch will serve as a communications specialist, furthering the Krista Rausch organization’s public relations and information output efforts.

Rausch joins NDAREC with more than seven years of experience in the communications field, most recently as a program coordinator for the City of Mandan. Before that, she worked as a multimedia journalist and web producer at KFYR-TV, a project coordinator at the Arc of Bismarck and a public relations and event marketing assistant at the Legendary Buffalo Chip in Sturgis, South Dakota.

Eckes Graduates from Banking School

Gregory Eckes, Commercial Loan Officer with First International Bank and Trust in Bismarck, North Dakota recently graduated from the Dakota Gregory Eckes School of Banking sponsored by the North Dakota Bankers Association (NDBA) and endorsed by the South Dakota Bankers Association (SDBA). In its 44th year, the school trained 61 bank personnel. The school has been held on the campus of University of Jamestown in Jamestown, North Dakota, since 1997.

Students are enrolled for two years, attending the school one week each summer. The first-year session provides a general overview of the banking industry and the departments that make up a bank.

The second-year session builds on the general banking knowledge gained in the first year and adds a computerized bank management simulation to reinforce technical and functional management skills.

Fugere Joins Housing Agency’s Homeownership Diversion

Amy Fugere

Amy Fugere of Bismarck, ND, was recently hired by North Dakota Housing Finance Agency. The state agency helps low- to moderate-income North Dakotans achieve homeownership by providing down payment and closing cost assistance, and affordable

mortgage loans.

A homeownership specialist, Fugere will work primarily in mortgage acquisition, reviewing loan applications and communicating with participating lenders to ensure compliance with program standards. As needed, Fugere will assist with borrower services.

Prior to coming to work at NDHFA, Fugere worked at Capital Credit Union as an underwriter and at Gate City Bank as a loan officer.

New Radiation Oncologist Joins Bismarck Cancer Center

Sanford Health Welcomes Physician Assistants

Ashley Reiner, PA-C, recently joined the outreach team at Sanford Health in Bismarck.

The Bismarck Cancer Center As part of the outreach team, is proud to introduce a new Reiner will be working with member to their team.

Dr. Cole Kreofsky residents at nursing homes in

Dr. Cole Kreofsky has joined the region. the Bismarck Cancer Center as a Radiation Oncologist. Dr. Kreofsky is a graduate of Ashley Reiner, PA-C Reiner graduated from South Dakota State University in Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit Brookings, South Dakota and and completed his radiation residency at Mayo Clinic received her master’s degree School of Graduate Medical Education in Rochester. from Union College in Lincoln, Dr. Kreofsky is a member of the American Society for Neb. She is board certified Therapeutic Radiation Oncology, American Society of by the National Commission Clinical Oncology and the American Brachytherapy on Certification of Physician Society. Dr. Kreofsky brings his wife and children with Assistants. him to the Bismarck community.

Kari Thomas, PA-C Kari Thomas, PA-C, recently joined the palliative care team BSC Faculty and Staff Receive at Sanford Health in Bismarck. As part of the palliative Promotions and Excellence Awards care team, she works with patients who have life Bismarck State College recently recognized limiting or life altering diagnosis. professional achievements of faculty and staff at the Thomas graduated from North Dakota State 10th annual BSC Celebration.

University and received her master’s degree from BSC President Larry C. Skogen conferred the rank Chicago Medical School in North Chicago. She is of full professor to two faculty members – Dr. Karen board certified by the National Commission on Arlien, professor of computer science; and Lynette Certification of Physician Assistants.

Borjeson Painter, professor of computers and office technology.

Sayler Joins Bremer Bank as Business To be considered for full professor, candidates must Banker have taught at BSC for at least 12 years, presented an Bremer Bank, NA is pleased to announce the application portfolio to the Dean of Academic Affairs addition of Jordan Sayler as a Business Banker. and his ranking committee, be recommended by the Jordan began his career with Wells Fargo in Bismarck Faculty Senate and approved by the college president. and Mandan, and was most recently a Business Three BSC faculty members were granted tenure by Relationship Manager in Chandler, AZ. He has over the State Board of Higher Education in early May. All five years of banking experience. He is originally from earned the rank of associate professor. the Wishek area, and graduated from North Dakota Tenure candidates with new titles include Dr. Kim State University with a degree in Business Finance.

Crowley, associate professor of English; Kimberly Gutierrez, associate professor of English; and Vance Montgomery Named Vesey, associate professor of instrumentation and Advisor of the Month control.

The following employees were recognized for

Securian Financial Advisors of completing degrees in the last year: Vickie Volk, ND, Inc. is pleased to announce doctorate in teaching and learning; Kelsey Dahl, that Robbie Montgomery has master’s degree in management; Greg Lugar, master’s been named Advisor of the degree in advanced apostolic catechetical; and Aaron Month for June based upon his Furchner, bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in Robbie Montgomery production and service to his chemistry and an emphasis in pre-med. clients. Montgomery has been a Five BSC employees were honored with the representative with Securian since January 2007 and Award of Excellence which recognizes significant or is a Registered Representative and Investment Advisor meritorious performance in professional roles.

Representative of Securian Financial Services, Inc. Faculty recipients were Jeff Skibicki, associate member FINRA/SIPC. professor of mathematics, and Joe Vuolo, associate professor of accounting.

Chosen for a Staff Award of Excellence were Mary Sennert, academic/multicultural advisor in the Mystic Advising and Counseling Center, and Linda Greenstein, financial aid manager.

The Part-time/Adjunct Faculty Award of Excellence went to Lucas Pippenger, computer science lecturer.

Chamber Connection | 31

COMMUNITY

NEWS Apex Engineering Group Announcements

Apex Engineering Group is pleased to announce Jason Gullicks has been named the Bismarck Operations Manager.

Jason Gullicks Gullicks will be responsible for overseeing operations, growth, and efficiencies in our Bismarck office and surrounding areas.

Gullicks graduated from North Dakota State University and brings 20 years of civil engineering experience to the position.

Dain Miller Apex Engineering Group is also pleased to announce Dain Miller has been named Chief Operations Officer. Miller’s duties will focus on development, proficiencies, and operations, including information technologies, human resources, and financial information, to improve the Apex experience for employees and clients. Miller graduated from North Dakota State University and brings 24 years of civil engineering experience to the position. Gullicks and Miller succeed Scott Olson, who retired in July.

ASK-A-PRO PERKS KAT Communications Welcomes New Gefroh Brings 30 Years of Expertise to Cornerstone Bank Video Consultant

Cornerstone Bank is proud to KAT Communications is excited to announce the welcome Leo Gefroh Jr. as a VP/ addition of Joel Jost to their production team as Video Business Banker in Bismarck.

Consultant. He has over 11 years of experience in Gefroh brings over 32 years of film and video, producing over 90 short films, music banking experience. He joins videos and commercials over that time. He also business banking experts Jerry created a YouTube channel featuring original content Hauff, Steve Wangler, and Derek that, to date, has nearly 3 million total views. Joel Weigel bringing the total years was born and raised in Alberta, Canada, and recently Leo Gefroh Jr of financial experience and local moved to Bismarck, ND, with his wife and son to expertise now available at Bismarck’s Cornerstone work for KAT. When Joel isn’t filming, he is a coffee Bank to 115 years. connoisseur and roasts his own coffee.

Gefroh earned his Associate of Arts degree EMC Branch Office Supports NDSC at Bismarck State College, his Bachelor degree in business administration at the University of With Donation Minnesota – Moorhead, and his Graduate degree in EMC Insurance Companies announces their banking at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Bismarck Branch recently donated $15,000 to the North Dakota Safety Council for a new training center He brings extensive experience helping businesses when they are making important decisions about scheduled to be completed in mid-August. their money. In addition, Gefroh brings experience as a branch manager, mortgage manager, loan analyst/ Liberty Business Systems, Inc. underwriter, and personal banker.

Awarded Dealer of Distinction Just as Cornerstone Bank values their role as neighbors and contributors, Gefroh does as well. He Liberty Business Systems, Inc. is honored to has served on the Ruth Meiers Hospitality House announce that they have received the Dealer of Board of Directors and the Bismarck Downtown Distinction Award from Great America Financial Business Association holding leadership roles in both Services, a nationwide provider of commercial equipment and technology financing. Liberty Business organizations.

Systems, Inc. was recognized for its unparalleled customer commitment and dedication to excellence.

AUGUST LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS Televised on Government Access, cable channel 2 & 602 HD.

Broadcast on KDAK 102.5 FM radio. Streamed online at www.freetv.org.

Tue, 1st

Mon, 7th

5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

Mon, 21st

5:30 pm Mandan School Board

5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission 5:30 pm Mandan School Board *

Tues, 8th

5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Tue. 22nd

8:30 am Burleigh County Budget Hearing 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission 5:30 pm Morton County Commission *

Wed, 9th 8:00 am Burleigh County Water Resource District

5:15 pm Burleigh Planning Commission Thur, 10th

5:30 pm Morton County Commission *

Mon, 14th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board

5:30 pm Mandan Park Board * Tue, 15th 1:00 pm Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board

5:30 pm Mandan City Commission Thur, 17th 7:30 am Bismarck City Commission Budget

5:15 pm Bismarck Park Board 32 | Chamber Connection

Wed, 23rd 8:30 am Burleigh County Commission Budget

5:00 pm Bismarck Planning Commission Thurs, 24th 5:30 pm ITG (Political Subdivisions) Mon, 26th

5:15 pm Mandan Planning Commission

Thur, 31st

3:30 pm Burleigh County Social Services

Meetings are replayed several times on the Government Access channel and are available for viewing online (Watch on Demand) at www.freetv.org. * Delayed Playback

www.bismarckmandan.com

Chamber Connection | 33

Ribbon Cuttings

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

STOCKMEN’S SUPPLY Guy Halvorson, Manager, at their new location on 1440 Action Drive SE in Mandan. Phone: 701-663-6805. Member.

ST. GABRIEL’S ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY Tyler Hoemberg, CEO along with staff and residents at their new facility on 4580 Coleman Street in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-751-4224. Member.

BISMARCK FIRE DEPARTMENT BURN BUILDING Joel Boespflug, Fire Chief and City Officials at the new burn building on 4103 Miriam Ave. in Bismarck. Member.

34 | Chamber Connection

BISMARCK TOUR COMPANY Annette Willis, Owner and family celebrating her new business.

Phone: 701-226-1950.

PATH Janice Tishmack, Regional Director and staff at their new location on 600 S. 2nd Street Ste. 220 in Bismarck.

Phone: 701-224-9611. Member.

BISMARCK LARKS Terry Daffinrud, Glenn Bosch and Rick Radatz Jr., Owners along with John Bollinger, General Manager at their new sports teams’ game opener. Phone: 701-557-7600. Member.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Welcome new members

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

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

Uber Bismarck 111 N. Canal Chicago, IL Erlinda Garcia (708) 606-6194 Uber is an app that connects riders and drivers at the tap of a button on your smartphone. Rides are available ondemand 24/7, 365 days a year. No reservations needed.

Flint Group 2000 Schafer Street Suite I Bismarck, ND Ted Hanson (701) 471-5058 Flint Group offers strategic, integrated marketing, public relations and communications expertise in both traditional and non-traditional spaces.

Experimac 2706 Rock Island Place #2 Bismarck, ND Taylor Rash (701) 595-7600 We buy, sell, trade, repair and upgrade Apple computers and devices.

Optimum Therapies of North Dakota 4204 Boulder Ridge Rd. Suite #100 Bismarck, ND Collin Kudrna (701) 751-3064 We are an independent private practice. Direct access provider-no referral needed. Devoted to help people & employers restore & improve movement. Focus in health & wellness with PT & medical massage.

The Salvation Army 601 S Washington St Bismarck, ND Sean Wise (701) 223-1889 To preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Saving souls, growing saints, and serving humanity in Bismarck, Mandan, and all of Burleigh County.

The Fringe 1514 E Thayer Avenue Bismarck, ND Lisa Young Bird (701) 421-8388 Locally owned and operated full service hair salon and spa.

Lifesaver Life Coaching Mandan, ND Jasmine Tosseth-Smith (701) 329-0747 We help you create a life & business that lights you up & fulfills you. Most clients are bright, successful people that may feel stuck or need help to navigate major changes.

We all need lifeline.

Chamber Connection | 35

Bismarck-Mandan ChamberConnection 1640 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck, ND 58503

Upcoming Chamber Events LBMAA NIGHT AT THE BALLPARK Date: Thursday, August 3, 2017 • Time: 7:05pm - 10:00pm Location: Dakota Community Bank & Trust Field – 303 W. Front Ave, Bismarck

AT THE

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER Date: Friday, August 4, 2017 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: Chamber of Commerce Patio –1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

in the

CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF

CHAMBER 101: MAXIMIZING YOUR MEMBERSHIP Date: Tuesday, August 15, 2017 • Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm Location: Chamber of Commerce –1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck AUGUST MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BARTLETT & WEST Date: Thursday, August 17, 2017 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Bartlett & West – 3456 E. Century Ave, Bismarck

Chamber

The

Sporting Clays

SHOOTOUT

in the

CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF

CHAMBER SPORTING CLAYS SHOOTOUT Date: Friday, August 25, 2017 • Time: 9:00am - 2:30pm Location: Capital City Sporting Clays – 12951 71st Ave NE, Bismarck SHOT IN THE DARK CHAMBER GOLF SCRAMBLE Date: Thursday, September 7, 2017 • Time: 5:30pm - 11:30pm Location: Mandan Municipal Golf Course – 1002 7th St SW, Mandan

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH MANDAN MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 5:30PM - SOCIAL 6:30PM - TWILIGHT START

Sign up your team online at www.bismarckmandan.com

in the

CHAMBER NIGHT GOLF

THE {FULL} LIFE AWAITS AT TOUCHMARK!

Experience maintenance-free living in a friendly and enriching community.

Single-family Homes & Apartments · Cottage Homes Independent Living · Assisted Living · Memory Care Long-term Care · Health & Fitness Club

Call 701-557-9289 to learn more or schedule a tour.

TO U C H M ARK ON W E ST C E NT URY 1000 West Century Avenue • Bismarck, ND 58503 • TouchmarkBismarck.com 1714997 © Touchmark, LCC, all rights reserved