November Chamber Connection

CHAMBER CONNECTION Bismarck-Mandan

November 2017

State of Lincoln A Discussion with Lincoln Mayor Gerarld Wise

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Evolving Holiday Retail Season Small business have already started planning for the busy holiday season.

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Member Profile State Historical Society of ND

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State of the Cities Address Mayor Helbling and Mayor Seminary will address Chamber Members on our communities.

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 Kevin Magstadt .....Independent Consultant Ron Day ............Andeavor Mandan Refinery Wayne Munson .................Indigo Signworks Brenda Nagel ..................University of Mary Dr. Blake Feil ....................Feil Orthodontics Heather Fried ..........Fried Financial Services Mike Nathe ............Bismarck Funeral Home Nick Hacker ..............ND Guaranty and Title Dan Pearson .........................Northwest Tire Chad Hatzenbuhler ...Bank of North Dakota Shannon Reichenberg ........Diversity Homes Jeff Herman ................................Petro Hunt Perrie Schafer ..............Schafer Financial Inc Jasper Schneider ..................................NISC Molly Herrington ....................................KLJ Russ Honeyman ....................Doosan Bobcat Scott Staudinger ..............Cloverdale Foods 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 CHAMBER STAFF Al Anderson .................................................................................................. Interim President Annie Bergrud.........................................................................................Chief Financial Officer David Leingang............................................................................ Community Growth Director Mary Masters................................................................................. Office Support Professional Ryan Parsons........................................................................................................Vice President Rebecca Rattei................................................................................ Communications Specialist Chelse Simon..................................................................................Membership Sales Director Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Anderson ........................ Communications Specialist/ LBM Director Karly Palczewski...............................................................................Marketing & Events Intern AnneMarie Hansen .........................................................................Marketing & Events Intern

CHAMBER NEWS

State of the Cities Address Set for November 7 Student Chamber Convenes for 2017-2018 Eckes Named Ambassador of the Quarter

CHAMBER EVENTS

November Membership Mixer: K&L Homes State of the Cities Chamber Holiday Mixer Chamber Annual Dinner

COLUMNS Chair's Corner

FEATURES

Cover Story 4 Member Profile 12 Ask-A-Pro 32 Chamber Perks 34 Chamber Ribbon Cuttings 38 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701.223.5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com CONTACT INFORMATION Content: The Chamber - 701.223.5660 rrattei@bismancc.com

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Chair's Corner

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ou may recall that I spoke of change in the October Chair’s Corner. This month, it is change that has presented our Chamber with potential opportunity. Recently, the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce and Bismarck-Mandan Development Association Board of Directors authorized their respective Executive Committees to enter into formal discussions regarding a potential merger of the two organizations.

The question of whether or not to merge the two organizations has been spurred by a number of factors, including: an increasing convergence of both organizations’ missions, recent or pending staff changes at both organizations and the possibility of increased efficiencies.

To be clear, no decision to merge the BMDA and Chamber has been made. Executive Committees from both organizations have started discussions which will continue until a recommendation on how to proceed will be brought back to each organization’s Board. During these discussions, both organizations will continue to operate as is with no disruption to service or programming. We will work hard to keep our membership informed of the progress as we determine if this is the best way to take our organizations to the next level to best support our communities of Bismarck and Mandan.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Chamber Workforce Summit, presented by Doosan Bobcat, on Oct. 24.

More than 175 people joined us for the first Workforce Summit and we hope to make this an annual event as this is an important piece of our strategic plan at the Chamber.

Jaimie Francis, Director of Programs and Operations for the U.S. Chamber Foundation, gave the opening keynote on “Managing Your Talent Pipeline.” Chamber Board member Molly Herrington moderated a panel on “Closing the Workforces Skill Gap: Education and Employer Collaboration.” Attendees chose from three workshops including “Developing an Effective Intern Program,” “Attracting and Retaining the Next Generation of Talent,” and “Importance of Encouraging Professional Development.” Matt Sagaser, Director of Innovation Accelerated for Doosan Bobcat, provided the closing keynote on “Importance of Company Culture in Talent Retention and Attraction.” The positive buzz created by the Summit is encouraging as we work towards solving our workforce challenges.

It is hard to believe, but it’s time to think about saving the date for the Chamber Annual Dinner on Jan. 11, 2018. As you all know, the Annual Dinner is our Chamber’s largest, premier event. Entertainment will be provided by Cirque-tacular, an aerial acrobat company out of New York City. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the New Year with friends and business colleagues and see what’s on the Chamber agenda for 2018.

Finally, blessings to the farmers, their families and the businesses that support the farmers and ranchers as many are wrapping up a stressful harvest season. Stay safe and know that our Chamber supports you and appreciates the impact of agriculture in the Bismarck-Mandan community.

- Brenda Nagel Chair, Board of Directors twitter.com/bismanchamber facebook.com/bismanchamber @bismanchamber Cover Photo Credit: Karly Palczewski

Chamber Connection | 3

FEATURE

CITY OF LINCOLN AT 40 YEARS

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

The City of Lincoln The City of Lincoln voted to incorporate as a city on July 12, 1977. has a relationship with BismarckMandan that is both a boon and a burden. As a boon, Lincoln residents get country living with the amenities of Bismarck-Mandan right next door. As a burden, residents shop primarily in Bismarck-Mandan.

Without that sales tax base, the city lacks some of the funding and revenue sources Bismarck and Mandan rely on.

Throughout its 40-year history, Lincoln worked hard to overcome infrastructure hurdles to become a booming residential community today.

Lincoln was founded as Ft. Lincoln Estates, a low-cost housing development with loans funded Before Lincoln was a city, it was a co-op. By 1977, Ft. Lincoln Estates had 653 residents. through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s rural housing service. It gave families with low- to moderateThe Dalys were one of the early families who took income a chance to own their own homes. advantage of the home loans offered through the USDA Before Lincoln was a city, it was a co-op. By 1977, Ft. Lincoln Estates had 653 residents, and the co-op voted to incorporate as a city on July 12, 1977. Today, the community has an estimated 3,600 residents.

“We were actually one of the first three families that moved in,” said Karen Daly, Vice President of the City Council. “We’ve been here since day one.”

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rural housing program. Before moving to Lincoln, the Dalys had been living with three children in an apartment in Bismarck.

“When this opportunity came along for us to have a house of our own, we jumped at the chance,” Daly said.

“It’s been a really nice place to live through all the years.”

Mayor Gerarld Wise has seen the definition of affordable housing in Lincoln shift over the years. He said homes that were bought for $60,000-$70,000 when Lincoln was established could be worth $220,000 today.

www.bismarckmandan.com “Not everybody can afford a home, but I believe everybody should be able to own a home,” Wise said.

“To me a low-income house is $200k or less.”

Lincoln still offers starter homes and homes for young families. From 2015 to 2016, Lincoln saw home sales increase more than 50 percent. Comparing homes sales January through June in 2015 and 2016, there was a 55.2 percent increase according to the Bismarck-Mandan Board of Realtors.

There are two major factors behind Lincoln’s booming growth: lack of special assessments and the new elementary school.

The residents of Lincoln executed campaigns throughout the 1990s and mid-2000s to get an elementary school built in Lincoln. Previously, school children were divided between multiple elementary schools in Bismarck, and the community lacked the cohesion of having all children attending the same elementary school. The elementary school was a long time coming.

“We asked that for a long, long time,” Daly said. “It was finally opened in midterm 2013-2014. We owe the credit of that to (Bismarck Public Schools Superintendent) Tamara Usleman who came on board with the Bismarck School system and took an objective look at everything. So we owe her big time for that.”

Lincoln Elementary School was part of a Bismarck Public Schools bond issue passed in 2012. The school opened its doors in January 2014 and quickly came to capacity. Two more classrooms were added in 2016, and the K-5 school now serves 500-600 students.

“It really brought the community together,” Daly said.

“Before that a lot of the elementary kids went to different schools. A lot of kids didn’t know each other.”

The City of Lincoln has faced infrastructure challenges over the years. Early in the community’s history, the water supply would run out each day. A USDA loan allowed Lincoln to install an iron-removal plant to treat the water.

In 2004, Lincoln officially hooked up water to the City of Bismarck.

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“It was really, really welcome to get really good water,” Daly said.

Today, Lincoln has two 500,000 gallon storage tanks and can store 1 million gallons of water. The city is still experiencing demands on water.

Chamber Connection | 5

FEATURE “The more that we build, the more supply and demand is there,” Wise said. “Our lagoons are almost up to capacity for the number of people that can be on these lagoons so that they can function properly.”

Photo Credit: Bismarck Public Schools

Lincoln recently adopted a Home Rule Charter. Using home rule, the residents of Lincoln voted to pass a one cent sales tax to help pay for infrastructure.

“I don’t want to be the one to tell a developer,’ I’m sorry you can’t build any more because I don’t have a lagoon so that you can put up more houses.’” Wise said.

The residents of Lincoln executed campaigns throughout the 1990s and mid-2000s to get an elementary school built in Lincoln. Lincoln Elementary School opened in January 2014.

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www.bismarckmandan.com Lincoln’s sales tax base is slowly growing as more commercial developments come to the city.

The first retail businesses opened in Lincoln in 1980.

Lincoln Plaza housed a hair salon, laundromat, bar and grocery store.

“Before I became mayor — when I was just a resident of Lincoln — I always said to myself, ‘Why isn’t Santee Road the Main Street of Lincoln?’” Wise said. “I know it’s tough to have a lot of businesses in a town that’s close to a major metropolitan city, namely Bismarck.”

The Tumbleweed Bar and DJ’s Tavern are mainstays in Lincoln.

“We do have Tumbleweed which serves the best ribs I’ve ever had in my life on Wednesdays,” Wise said.

CHI St. Alexius Health operates a children’s asthma clinic that is open twice each month. Dakota Community Bank & Trust opened a Lincoln branch in 2003. Sarah Bakke is Branch Manager of Dakota Community Bank & Trust in Lincoln.

“We have seen exceptional growth over the past 14 years,” Bakke said, “from family housing, business growth and the recent addition of Lincoln Elementary School.

We’ve grown along with the community, and we look forward to doing so with our pledge of offering modern banking convenience with old-fashioned hometown service.”

Lincoln’s newest commercial development recently opened near the elementary school with Lincoln Fitness, Overhaul Salon & Tanning, Horizon Chiropractic, and Hometown Credit Union.

“I would like to see a bigger grocery store, maybe a dollar store of some sort,” Wise said. “We’ve already got a beauty salon. I’d love to see a coffee shop. The residents would love to have a coffee shop.”

Wise said he would also like to see some light industrial businesses on the outside of Lincoln.

“We have a great community out here,” Wise said. “There are opportunities if a person decides to put in a small business. If a developer decides to put in another strip mall, they just have to have the confidence that they can do it. Lincoln is so close to Bismarck, that people get scared. You’ve got to grab the bull by the horns and do it.”

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Chamber Connection | 7

FEATURE

THE EVOLVING HOLIDAY RETAIL SEASON

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

Christmas comes once a year, but Kirkwood Mall plans for the holiday shopping season all year around.

Up to 30 percent of all annual retail happens in November and December, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers. That’s why the staff at Kirkwood mall start planning each holiday season in the season before.

Kirkwood Mall will be full with 100 retailers in the 2017 holiday shopping season. In addition to 72 filled in-line spaces, 28 more retailers will be mixed in with the yearround kiosks.

The national trend of retailers opening on Thanksgiving has seen some shifting practices. At Kirkwood Mall, department store and retailers with exterior mall entrances have the option open their stores on Thanksgiving. But the mall itself will be closed.

CBL Properties, which owns and manages Kirkwood Mall, is closing all of its properties for Thanksgiving for the second year in a row. This follows four years when CBL Properties had malls open on Thanksgiving.

“CBL Properties is a family-owned company and they really value family first,” said Jennifer Wilson, General Manager of Kirkwood Mall. “They saw Black Friday spreading throughout the Kirkwood Mall will open at 6 a.m. on Black Friday. entire time frame and taking people away from the treasured moment that we don’t get very often. They also saw the dollars spread throughout the day. Businesses were not picking up incremental dollars by being open on Thanksgiving. They saw the dollars spread throughout the weekend.”

Photo Credit: Stokka Designs

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Instead, Kirkwood Mall is back to opening at 6 a.m. on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. Sarah Kotelnicki is Marketing Director for Kirkwood Mall. She said the property will be offering “door busters” gift cards so that shoppers will have a monetary value in their hands ready to spend.

“A lot of people make the assumption that if they’re not here at 6 a.m. they have missed out on everything,” Kotelnicki said, “but a lot of retailers stagger their offers throughout the day.”

Kirkwood Mall turns the Black Friday shopping weekend into a property-wide event. iHeart Media will broadcast radio from Kirkwood Mall to communicate staggered deals throughout Black Friday. The Bismarck High School marching band will parade Santa through the mall on Black Friday in a vehicle from Bismarck Motor Company.

As a small business located in Pinehurst Shopping Center, Apricot Lane Boutique isn’t competing with the Black Friday rush at 6 a.m.

“We will be opening our normal time at 10 a.m. (on Black Friday),” said Loni Bienek, Owner of Apricot Lane Boutique. “We have a very limited staff, and I feel opening earlier just puts extra pressure on everyone over the holidays.”

www.bismarckmandan.com The Bismarck High School marching band will parade Santa through Kirkwood Mall on Black Friday in a vehicle from Bismarck Motor Company.

Scrooge Night is designed as a social gathering for motorcycle riders. The dealership offers food and beverages and an opportunity for Harley owners to mingle. Once shoppers have selected all of their purchases, they draw a discount percentage out of a bucket.

“We have all sorts of different customers,” Stork said, “retired guys that ride a lot of miles. They’ll buy a season’s worth of tires, a season’s worth of motor oil.”

By December, Stork said motorcycle sales take a back seat to the rest of the store. The motorclothes, collectibles and parts departments take the front seat.

Photo Credit: Stokka Designs

Apricot Lane has strategies to capitalize on the family aspect of shopping on Friday. Bienek’s store is geared toward mothers and daughters shopping together with clothing selections for both generations. For the Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, Apricot Lane will be giving away a free gift with each purchase. Bienek said they have selected the two most wanted items in the store as giveaways. They will also be offering discounts storewide throughout the weekend.

“Once we get into January, we start to pick up momentum,” Stork said. “Motorcycle sales contribute the biggest to the bottom line. You don’t need to be in the riding season or summer, because they know it’s so close.

That’s the carrot hanging out there.”

At Kirkwood Mall, the holiday retail season builds to another big shopping day on the day before Christmas.

“You have Black Friday,” Wilson said, “and then there is a taper, and then it goes back up and it plateaus, and then that last day is just crazy.”

“We’re a mom and daughter boutique and we buy for both generations,” Bienek said. “The neat thing is they cross over among the generations. Sometimes the mom and daughter will buy the same top.”

Small Business Saturday offers another bump for Apricot Lane when consumers are encouraged to shop with local retailers on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

“The one thing about being located in the Pinehurst strip mall is we’re all small business owners,” Bienek said. “When we draw these people in, everybody really benefits.”

Christmas offers a different set of challenges for Roughrider Harley-Davidson as a summer-focused business. Roughrider Harley-Davidson is located on Memorial Highway in Mandan, and their business is centered on the summer motorcycle-riding season.

The motorcycle dealer is still able to participate in the holiday retail season according to Owner Bill Stork. The store hosts Scrooge Night in mid-November.

Chamber Connection | 9

FEATURE Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday this year. Due to North Dakota’s blue laws, retailers cannot open before noon.

With restricted hours on Christmas Eve, Kirkwood Mall has dubbed Dec. 23 as “Super Saturday.”

The Black Friday weekend now culminates in Cyber Monday, when online retailers join in the kick-off to the holiday shopping season. Some physical stores have seen online retail bite into their sales.

“I think it will be a really big volume, peak day for the mall,” Wilson said.

“It’s completely negative to any brick and mortar business that’s out there,” Stork said. “I think anybody that has a brick and mortar business understands that.”

Every manager of every store in the mall will be on hand.

Wilson anticipates shoppers traveling from Dickinson, Minot and possibly Canada to shop on that last Friday and Saturday before Christmas.

Most stores in Kirkwood Mall double their employees during the holiday retail season. The big anchor stores start hiring holiday staff in September and October. As of mid-October, Wilson said holiday hiring was halfway there. This is a big improvement over hiring last year.

“For the past four years it has been extremely difficult to staff the stores going into Black Friday. Most of them were going in understaffed,” Wilson said. “The community should experience better customer service and better employee headcount than they have experienced in past years.”

At the same time, Stork can still take advantage of some online sales. Harley-Davidson has an ecommerce website. Shoppers select the local dealership where they want to pick up their merchandise. The local dealer, such as Roughrider Harley-Davidson, receives a cut.

“We would way rather have that customer come into our store,” Stork said. “It’s an experience. 75 percent of the people that walk in our front door, we know their first names.”

At Apricot Lane, Bienek has found online sales can complement her brick and mortar store.

Bill Stork, Owner of Roughrider Harley-Davidson, will host Scrooge Night in mid-November.

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www.bismarckmandan.com Apricot Lane will offer storewide discounts on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday

“We have to compete against the giant, and that’s Amazon,” Bienek said. “Amazon has reached out to us to see if we can work together; however, we are still not sold on partnering with them because the margins will run very thin. The thing about the textile business is women like to touch and feel and try on. So when our customers see something on our website they like, they will come in and try it on. So in some respect our website acts as a marketing tool for us.”

Kirkwood Mall is bringing local online retailers to the property through their new pop-up store. The space can be rented for a week at a time. Kirkwood Mall provides tables, fixtures, bust forms, music, and a cash and wrap area. Pallet walls can be used to partition the 2,500 square foot space to fit the needs of each pop-up retailer.

Brooke Miller is Specialty Leasing Manager at Kirkwood Mall. She said several of the pop-up retailers are online Facebook boutiques.

“Amazon is doing pop-up stores in malls, because they see the value of brick and mortar,” Wilson said. “We know the Millennial loves an experience, and malls provide experiences. That is the focus and drive we have right now is to provide experiences to keep people coming to our property.”

After the holiday retail season calms down, Kirkwood mall will be starting renovation in mid-January. The entire floor and common area will get new treatments including porcelain tile, carpet, high-top tables, lounge chairs and new restrooms.

“It comes right on the heels of our huge parking lot renovation which was millions of dollars.” Kotelnicki said.

“People wonder if malls are still going. Our company is still continuing to reinvent and reinvest. It shows there are still optimistic visions for the future for shopping centers.”

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Profile

News

events State Historical Society of North Dakota

CHAMBER

MEMBER PROFILE Featuring Kimberly Jondahl

STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ND

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

A: I am the Communications & Education director for the State Historical Society. Our department staff mainly focuses on The Visitor—creating personal, meaningful, and entertaining history experiences for our physical and online visitors from around the world. We’re always researching, providing programs, and asking our visitors how we can better connect them with North Dakota history and current international events in ways that meet their needs.

My department: • creates public education programs and teacher workshops; • helps coordinate technology, data research, events, and publicity for state historic sites and museums; • writes the North Dakota Studies history curriculum for grades 4, 8, and high school; • produces the academic history journal, North Dakota History • provides outreach services, visitor services, tours, and rental spaces; • manages 200+ volunteers.

All of our work is enhanced by partnerships with local, state, and national organizations, museums, and private businesses.

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Q: Briefly tell us the history of The State Historical Society of ND. A: Most people are surprised to learn that the State Historical Society manages two museums and 57 state historic sites. Our most recent acquisition was the Welk Homestead Site near Strasburg, purchased in 2014.

A State Historical Commission and authorization for a state historical society were established in 1895. Some people still remember the former State Museum located in the Liberty Memorial Building, now home to the State Library. In 1981, the ND Heritage Center on the Capitol grounds opened and continues to serve as headquarters for the State Historical Society, the State Museum, and a few additional state entities. The agency is governed by a 12-member State Historical Board.

Our staff is active with local, regional, and national museum organizations, and the State Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

www.bismarckmandan.com Q: How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted State Historical Society of ND? A: We appreciate the ongoing support of BismarckMandan residents and businesses who are strong proponents of our museums, sites, and programs. We’re seeing more cultural diversity in our visitors with the growth. This is a positive impact that has helped our team to think globally about changing demographics and social issues when planning programs, planning exhibits, and making materials available in various languages.

It’s one of our goals at the ND Heritage Center & State Museum to be known as a safe and neutral place where discussions of all sides of issues can take place.

We’ve also had opportunities to collaborate with new businesses and organizations in bringing creative events, new voices, and new programs to Bismarck-Mandan and additional North Dakota communities. Since our historic sites are local across the state, we encourage all state residents to visit these important places where significant North Dakota history happened. History lays the groundwork for building strong, resilient communities today.

Q: What industry trends are taking place?

A: We closely watch industry trends in museums, education, and marketing. In every arena, there’s a growing movement toward personalization, using multiple channels to access information, and new technology developments such as virtual reality and augmented reality applications that are changing customer expectations. To remain relevant, we’ll have to stay on the forefront of providing the services and technology expected by younger visitors. The old-school “Museum of Stagnant Objects” is less relevant to a younger generation growing up with dynamic content at their fingertips. Yet we still need to provide areas for “slow engagement” where a visitor can spend time thoughtfully studying a painting or a piece of pottery.

The State Historical Society is a front-runner in the education trend toward online learning. Two years ago, we created an award-winning grade 8 online curriculum for North Dakota Studies and stopped printing textbooks.

Now we’re also moving our grade 4 history curriculum online.

We’re also watching implications of the recently proposed elimination of the National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and other federally funded institutions and the ripple effect that national approach would have on museums and non-profits seeking grant funding for important cultural programs.

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

A: Some cultural and historic sites of all sizes across the country are struggling with keeping their doors open because of declining budgets and visitation or decreased relevance. With so many fast-paced technologies available to find information or entertainment, today’s museums are challenged with finding new ways to engage and entertain audiences combining physical and digital experiences through cost-effective methods.

There are also increasing types of entertainment options available to fill people’s free time. Would you rather watch a Netflix blockbuster or spend a couple hours at the museum? Would you rather be gaming with friends or take them to a historic home? Growing competition for leisure and tourism activities is a constant, but an energizing challenge for us.

Q: What does the future of State Historical Society of ND look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: The future of the State Historical Society is bright.

Our State Archives continues to collect more state and private documents and films than ever before. Our collection of North Dakota objects and artifacts continues to grow, and we’re providing outreach services to many statewide historical societies and affiliates. Visitation is strong at the State Museum. Through the many ways the agency has an impact, we help to build a more robust regional infrastructure, add economic viability for the state through tourism income, provide meaning and connection in local communities, and serve as the repository of relevant history for generations to come.

Q: State Historical Society of ND became a member in 1999, why do you continue to renew each year?

A: The ND Heritage Center was built as “the people’s place,” and we keep in mind that everything we collect, preserve, maintain, and do belongs to the people of North Dakota. We see value in supporting our roots and in partnering with and supporting the Chamber’s membership. Chamber members continue to help us build on local knowledge, tell stories in new ways, and connect with diverse audiences, and we are grateful.

Q: What should Chamber members know about State Historical Society of ND that may assist them?

A: We’re here to help! Our staff can provide personalized tours, presentations, and reception spaces for businesses or organizations bringing out-of-town guests to the area.

In Bismarck-Mandan, consider the State Museum, the Former Governors Mansion, Camp Hancock, and Double Ditch Village State Historic Site as destination points of interest.

Chamber Connection | 13

CHAMBER

Profile

News

events

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN: FROM NEW AMERICANS TO ENTREPRENEURS The 28th class of Leadership BismarckMandan gathered for the first time at the Chamber of Commerce on Sept 21.

Orientation was combined with Local Issues Day this year to get the class off and running.

ORIENTATION/LOCAL ISSUES DAY Local Issues and Orientation Day kickedoff the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan year with exercises in networking, communications and diversity.

A New Americans Panel was the capstone of the day with panelists from Lutheran Social Services, Bismarck Global Neighbors and Yasini Ngabu, a New American from Congo.

Global Neighbors partners New Americans with American mentor families.

The class executed a city planning exercise. Bismarck city planners presented a parcel of land and gave the class parameters to make planning decisions based on zoning and ownership of the land.

The mentorship is based on the needs of the New American, whether it is learning the bus system, opening mail or reducing isolation by going to the pumpkin patch.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DAY Economic Development Day was held at Bismarck Public Schools Career Academy, which is a “hidden gem” according to Nathan Schneider of the BismarckMandan Development Association. The BPS Career Academy was selected as the host site, because workforce development and talent attraction are a big part of economic development.

Evan Anderson of Gizmonics spoke on entrepreneurship and inventing. Anderson said inventors come up with ideas and solve problems.

Entrepreneurs find ways to monetize that.

“Inventing is easy,” Anderson said. “You sort of lay in bed and solve a problem. Entrepreneurship is really hard.”

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Program Sponsors:

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Orientation Facilitators: Brenda Nagel – University of Mary Bonnie Dahl – University of Mary Robin Thorstenson – Starion Bank Local Issues Day Chairs: Todd Van Orman – University of Mary Krista Rausch – N.D. Association of Rural Electric Coop.

Economic Development Day Chairs: Nathan Schneider – Bismarck-Mandan Development Assoc.

Wendy Van Duyne – Bartlett & West Breakfast/Lunch Sponsors: Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association (Orientation/Local Issues Day) Bartlett & West (Economic Development Day)

STATE OF THE CITIES ADDRESS SET FOR NOVEMBER 7 Join Mandan Mayor Tim Helbling and Bismarck Mayor Mike Seminary for the 2017 State of the Cities Address on Tuesday, Nov. 7th at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Bismarck. Attendees will be informed on the challenges endured and successes earned that Mandan and Bismarck have seen in the last year, as well as what they forecast for the future state of the cities.

Economic Development, Public Safety, Education, and Infrastructure are just some of the topics and more that our Mayors will dive into. Then, we will hear from the community as each Mayor is asked questions that have been submitted by the community during the Q&A session that will close out the event.

www.bismarckmandan.com

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

Day by day. Project by project.

Together we’re building better places that bring the world closer.

Mayor Tim Helbling

Mayor Mike Seminary

The cost to attend is $25 for Chamber members and $35 for general admission. This is a great event to share with colleagues and friends, so be sure to sign up and reserve a table. For information on the perks that come with a table sponsorship, or for general inquires for the event, please call David at 701-223-5660, email him at dleingang@bismancc.com, or register online at bismarckmandan.com/events.

Gold Sponsors: Building a Better World for All of Us

Event Sponsors: Bank of North Dakota, Indigo Signworks and Sanford Health Table Sponsors: AE2S, American Bank Center, BNC National Bank, Bismarck State College, BismarckMandan HBA, Bremer Bank, Capital Credit Union, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, First International Bank & Trust, HDR Engineering, Houston Engineering, Northern Improvement Co. Northwest Tire, University of Mary, Wells Fargo Bank

Engineers | Architects | Planners | Scientists

sehinc.com • 701.354.7172

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STUDENT CHAMBER CLASS OF 2017-2018

Through many applications and many hours of deliberation, the Chamber’s Excellence in Business and Education Committee has selected 18 students for this year’s Student Chamber program.

Annually, the Excellence Committee accepts 18 students (9 juniors and 9 Seniors) from public and private schools around the Bismarck-Mandan area. Now in its 13th year, the Student Chamber program has grown from 12 to 18 students.

The program comprises of eight meetings in which students learn in-depth details about our Bismarck-Mandan Community and their place in it.

Throughout the seven month program, students are exposed to topics such as Leadership Development, Financial Literacy, Economic Development, and Law & Politics, to name a few. These topics will challenge the paradigms and understanding each junior and senior currently have.

We are proud and excited to announce the 2017-2018 Student Chamber members:

Carson Breuer, Crystal Mills, Erynn Dunnigan, Faith Wahl, Gavin Miller, Grace Volk, Jack Markle, Karissa Limesand, Karter Schauer, Kathryn Schnaible, Nevin Fetzer, North Skager, Paul Schumacher, Riley Roesler, Sheradyn Schmaltz, Tiana Staudinger, Victoria Windsor, Victoria Wu

CHAMBER AG. COMMITTEE CELEBRATES HARVEST WITH FALL MEMBERSHIP MIXER

In honor of the annual harvest, The Chamber’s Agricultural Committee invited all Chamber members to Northern Plains Equipment to enjoy food, music, and prizes as we learned about our pivotal agricultural industry. Guest speaker Daryl Lies, President of North Dakota Farm Bureau, drove home the importance of the Ag. Industry in North Dakota, but also how imperative it is to correct the complacency that our more suburban/cities have in regards to where their food comes from.

16 | Chamber Connection

Whether you were roping with Ag. Committee chair, Jess Nehl, enjoying Daryl’s talk, or loving the food, the Chamber’s Ag. Committee would like to thank everyone who was able to join us!

Gold Sponsor: Lunch Sponsors: Advanced Business Methods, Dee Heintz – American Family Insurance, Bismarck State College, Bismarck Title Company, Farm Credit Services of Mandan, Farm and Ranch Guide, Northern Pulse Growers Association, Starion Bank, Wells Fargo Bank.

Daryl Lies

www.bismarckmandan.com

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ECKES NAMED AMBASSADOR OF THE QUARTER

Congratulations to Greg Eckes, Bismarck – Mandan Chamber of Commerce’s, third quarter ambassador for 2017! He is a familiar face at several Chamber events, ribbon cuttings, and throughout the community.

Eckes hails from Dickinson, North Dakota.

He received his Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a focus in Banking and Finance. He recently graduated from the Dakota School of Banking in 2017. He is currently employed with First International Bank & Trust as a Commercial Loan Officer, Assistant Vice President.

Volunteering runs in Eckes’s blood. He is a volunteer for several organizations in Bismarck-Mandan including: United Way Day of Caring as a Team Captain, United Way Backpack Program, Mandan Progress Organization, Bismarck Elks Lodge, Emergency Meals on Wheels, Bowls for Babies, Real World Camp Volunteer, and Optimist Club gift wrapping.

When Eckes is not attending ribbon cuttings, helping the Chamber staff with mixers, and volunteering in his other local organizations he is spending time with his beautiful wife Natalie, and their four children. In his free time he also enjoys boating, fishing, camping, golfing, traveling, and cooking.

18 | Chamber Connection

“I enjoy working with a group that encourages business involvement within our community, as well as promotes up and coming new companies to our area. I also like being involved and volunteering for the various Chamber activities held throughout the year,” said Eckes.

Congratulations Greg, from all of the us at the Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce, and again thank you for all your service to our communities!

www.bismarckmandan.com

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: K&L HOMES

Date: Thursday, November 2, 2017 Location: K&L Homes Model Home

1003 Community Loop, Bismarck Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free for Chamber Members Our November Membership Mixer marks our final membership mixer for 2017! Join us with our host, K&L Homes as they open up one of their model houses for our November Membership Mixer on Thursday, November 2nd. This event is a wonderful way to meet other business members within the community, while providing a comfortable, laid back atmosphere.

Enjoy some cool refreshments, hor d’oeuvres by Lady J’s Catering, and opportunity to tour one of their model homes! Prior to the Membership Mixer the Heritage Park Dedication by the Bismarck Parks & Recreation Department will be taking place at 3:30pm. A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony by the Chamber Ambassadors will be at 4:15pm at the entrance of Heritage Park development. The Heritage Park development is located off of N. Washington St. and 57th Ave NW in north Bismarck.

STATE OF THE CITIES

Date: Tuesday, November 7, 2017 Location: Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center

800 South 3rd Street, Bismarck Time: 7:00AM - 9:00AM Admission: $30.00 for Chamber Members

$40.00 for General Admission Join Mandan Mayor Tim Helbling and Bismarck Mayor Mike Seminary for the 2017 State of the Cities address.

Tuesday, November 7th, at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center. Participants will gain insight from both Mandan and Bismarck Mayors and will hear about successes and challenges that each city faced throughout 2017.

Doors open at 7:00am followed by breakfast with the program beginning at 7:30am.

Cost to attend is $30 with Chamber member discount, and $40 for general admission. For more information, contact David Leingang at dleingang@bismancc. com, or call 701-223-5660. Register online at www. bismarckmandan.com/events.

Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend, and are open to everyone within your organization. RSVPs are appreciated and can be made online at www. bismarckmandan.com/events or by contacting the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

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CHAMBER 101

Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2017 Location: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce

1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 4:00PM - 5:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Class is in session! Join us Tuesday, November 14th for our next Chamber 101 session. This class is geared towards any new members, existing members looking to get more active, members in new roles, or any member looking to maximize their membership. We will have a brief presentation discussing Chamber programs, events, benefits, and committees. Then we will be diving into a Q&A session.

We will be serving hors d’oeuvres, and refreshments!

Space is limited. Please register today by contacting the Chamber at 701-223-5660 or by emailing Chelse at csimon@bismancc.com.

CHAMBER HOLIDAY MIXER

Date: Tuesday, December 12, 2017 Location: Bismarck Event Center, Exhibit Hall

315 S. 5th Street, Bismarck Time: 5:00PM - 8:00PM Admission: $5.00 plus a Business Card Temperatures dropping? Have no fear! That means the Chamber Holiday Mixer is near! Reserve your booth today for the 2017 Holiday Mixer! Booths are available for you to showcase your business and services to over 1,500 individuals throughout our community.

This festive holiday event is scheduled for Tuesday, December 12th at the Bismarck Event Center in the Exhibit Hall from 5:00pm – 8:00pm, and is open to the general public.

There are many different sponsorship levels available for Chamber business members. If you’d like to register to attend or to learn more about the opportunity to expose your business before, during and after the event contact the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

20 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

ANNUAL DINNER IS AROUND THE CORNER Date: Location:

Time:

Thursday, January 11, 2018 Bismarck Event Center, Hall B 315 S. 5th Street, Bismarck 5:00PM - 9:00PM

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce’s largest premier event is around the corner! On Thursday, January 11th at the Bismarck Event Center, don’t miss the famous black-tie formal event with amazing entertainment and wonderful fellowship!

It may be cool outside, but the excitement of the New Year and great mingling fills the hall with amazing warmth! This a great way to celebrate the New Year with nearly 1,000 friends, and get a quick glimpse into what’s on the agenda for 2018.

Formal invitations to follow, but it’s never too early to mark your calendar and plan your evening out with us! To reserve your table, email Karly at karlyp@bismancc.com or purchase tickets online at www.bismarckmandan. com/events or contact the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

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DOWNTOWN WELLS FARGO OFFICE BUILDING RECEIVES NEW NAME, NEW UPDATED LOBBY AND COMMON AREAS The six story landmark Wells Fargo Office Building, located on the NE corner of 4th Street and Broadway Avenue, is undergoing a renovation and will be rebranded as Grand Pacific Center. The new building name honors the site’s history as the former location of the Grand Pacific Hotel.

The well- known hotel had roots that date back to 1880 and was named in honor of the Northern Pacific Railroad.

The GP Hotel was demolished in 1974 and the current Wells Fargo office building was developed on the site.

Along with the new name, the main floor common areas and outside plaza entrance to the Grand Pacific Center are currently undergoing renovations. Wild l CRG Architecture has set forth an upscale design scheme with refined modern finishes and distinctive lighting that will enhance the ambiance and create a ‘wow factor’ as you approach and enter the building.

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Hand selected historical photos will adorn the corridors displaying the building’s history as the Grand Pacific Hotel and its place in early 20th century Bismarck. The outside plaza will feature custom back-lit columns and integrated seating pods. The entire top floor of the building is also undergoing renovations and is available for lease according to Bill Daniel of Daniel Companies.

This 15,000 square foot space on the 6th floor offers breathtaking 360 degree views and will be custom finished for new tenants. Taylor Daniel stated that the building’s owner, NetREIT, is excited to complete these enhancements and participate in Downtown Bismarck’s exciting live/work/play vibe. Bill Daniel and Taylor Daniel of Daniel Companies handle lease space opportunities for this landmark building. Rocky Gordon & Company manages the property.

www.bismarckmandan.com

GOVERNOR, FIRST LADY HOST RECOVERY REINVENTED TO ADDRESS ADDICTION, INSPIRE INNOVATIVE RECOVERY OPTIONS

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum today hosted Recovery Reinvented, a daylong event at the Bismarck Event Center focused on ways to reinvent addiction recovery through innovative implementation in North Dakota.

They were joined by national and state addiction recovery experts and more than 800 attendees from throughout the state, including health care providers and administrators, business and community leaders, faith-based organizations, Native American community leaders and educators.

“Addiction is destroying families, affecting businesses and impacting communities across North Dakota,” Gov. Burgum said. “We have the opportunity to change the dialogue and to inspire individual and community investment in recovery through publicprivate partnerships, innovative solutions and personal engagement.”

The governor and first lady are committed to finding solutions across the full continuum of care: prevention, early intervention, treatment and recovery. Recovery Reinvented offered an opportunity to focus on recovery, kicking off long-term efforts to address the stigma of addiction and reduce the shame associated with the disease. A similar event focused on prevention was announced for April 11, 2018.

“I would not be here today if not for my recovery, and I am not alone,” Helgaas Burgum said in her address, describing her own struggle with alcohol addiction and 15 years of recovery. “We are working to reinvent recovery by taking our advocacy to the streets and asking our citizens to begin talking about addiction, to help eliminate the shame and stigma of addiction and treat it like the chronic disease that it is. There is no shame in addiction, and there is so much hope and possibility in recovery. It is time to dream again.”

To help prevent opioid overdoses, which claim the lives of more than 90 Americans every day, Burgum signed an executive order today directing all cabinet agencies to collaborate with local and tribal governments and law enforcement agencies to make naloxone available to first responders, community leaders and individual opioid users and their family members. Naloxone is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose in emergency situations.

Photo Credit: Poppy Mills - ND Department of Transportation

The event concluded with the launch of a new advertising campaign called “Dream Again,” aimed at supporting individuals in recovery by raising awareness about addiction as a chronic but treatable disease, overcoming the shame and stigma of addiction, and preventing individuals from developing a substance use disorder. www.BNCbank.com

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MANDAN NAMED 2017 CITY OF THE YEAR Mandan was named 2017 City of the Year by the North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC) during the League’s 2017 Annual Conference, Sept. 30, in Fargo.

Commissioner Dennis Rohr accepted the award on behalf of the city.

In his presentation of the City of the Year award to Mandan, NDLC Executive Director Blake Crosby outlined many recent accomplishments of the city.

• Recently, a former historic school has been sold to a developer that will lead its transformation into 39 affordable housing units.

• The city has developed a brochure for new residents who may have questions about housing choices, recreation and education and has installed 24 “Wayfinding Signs” to help orient and direct visitors.

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• Citizen surveys have all indicated the desire for more eating establishments. In response the city created several incentive programs directed specifically for restaurants. This past year, six new eating establishments have opened or are in the process of opening.

• Another recent major project dubbed “The Rail Yard” includes the re-facing of an existing building and plans for new construction of two additional buildings onsite. This project strives to bring life back to part of downtown that has struggled since losing its grocery store.

The City of the Year Award was established in 1984 to recognize North Dakota Cities for the quality, number and progressiveness of activities undertaken in the community.

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24 | Chamber Connection

GOLDSMITH HECK ENGINEERS, INC. JOIN FORCES WITH KLJ

KLJ, an engineering firm headquartered in Bismarck, ND, announced today that they have formalized their long-time partnership maintained with Goldsmith Heck Engineers, Inc., a South Dakota based company. The two firms have collaborated on various projects for more than 10 years, most recently serving the Sioux Falls Airport. “During that time, we have recognized, that we work well together, and that greater opportunity exists together,” said KLJ’s CEO, Dean Anagnost.

Over the last couple of years Goldsmith Heck sought to increase not only their business opportunities, as well as career opportunities for their staff. In KLJ, they found a firm that offered both opportunities, and one that shared their approach and dedication to clients and business. “Our established relationship with KLJ, their business model and dedication to exceptional service is what drove us to take an in-depth look at the company, and when they opened an office in Sioux Falls this summer, it seemed like the right time”, said Todd Goldsmith, President of Goldsmith Heck.

Not only do the two firms work well together, but the addition of Goldsmith Heck formally into the organization plays a noteworthy role in KLJ’s growth strategy for the future. This strategy includes geographic expansion and a focus on the Company’s core business of engineering infrastructure. “Together, our team offers the experience and services needed to truly reimagine what projects can become,” said Anagnost.

www.bismarckmandan.com

EMC BRANCH OFFICE SUPPORTS DAKOTA ZOO

EMC Insurance Companies’ Bismarck Branch has donated $2,000 to the Dakota Zoo. This donation will go toward a new penguin, meerkat and red panda exhibit, which is scheduled to begin construction in 2018.

“EMC is committed to enhancing the communities we serve,” says Marilyn Ternes, resident vice president branch manager of the EMC Bismarck Branch. “Throughout the country, our team members donate both time and money to do just that.”

The EMC Insurance Foundation supports numerous organizations in central Iowa, where the Corporate Office and the Des Moines Branch office are located.

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KLJ specializes in planning, designing, and supporting infrastructure projects of all shapes and sizes. From roads, runways, pipelines, and parks, KLJ provides clients the sophisticated engineering they expect, along with the support and technical expertise needed.

“Goldsmith Heck’s expertise in civil engineering and surveying services will allow us to expand our services together, to current and future clients,” said Anagnost.

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MANDAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS ADOPTS NEW MISSION AND VISION STATEMENTS Mandan Public Schools has adopted a new mission, vision, and core beliefs statement, according to Dr. Jeff Lind, Assistant Superintendent. During the past year, school board members and community stakeholders used time during committee meetings to discuss, review, and fine tune the new mission, vision, and core beliefs.

The new mission statement is: The Mission of Mandan Public Schools is to provide students with rigorous and personalized learning experiences and to help them develop the social and emotional skills to become productive citizens.

The new vision is: The Vision of Mandan Public Schools is that every student will graduate Choice Ready; ready for college, career, and life. The core beliefs are: • All students are entitled equal access to a free and appropriate public education.

• Schools should promote scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

• Schools should provide students with a quality core curriculum, along with opportunities to pursue interests in the arts, career and technical education, and physical education.

• Schools should equip students with communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity skills.

• Schools should provide a system of support services that will allow all students to succeed.

• Schools should provide students with a safe, caring, and respectful learning environment.

• Schools should inspire students to succeed.

• Parents and the whole community are partners helping schools to achieve the mission and vision of the District.

26 | Chamber Connection

“We provide the pathway for our students to graduate from our schools ready for what comes next,” said Lind. “We are preparing our student to be Choice Ready – ready to choose the direction they want to pursue.

Some students will choose college, some will get a full-time job, some may join the military, and some choose a combination of options – but all of them should be ready to be productive and passionate citizens of the world.”

A new logo that depicts the Mission, Vision, and Core Beliefs has been developed and will begin to appear around the district to encourage students, school staff, parents, and community members to join together to support Mandan students.

Mandan Public School District educates 3,746 students in six elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and one alternative education center.

For more information about Mandan Public Schools, visit www.mandan.k12.nd.us.

NORTHWOODS LEAGUE ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE AND ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR

www.bismarckmandan.com

Although the Bismarck Larks’ inaugural season ended in August, their success is still being recognized. The Bismarck Larks were honored as the Northwoods League Organization of the Year after an incredibly successful first season. Out of 36 home games at Bismarck Municipal Ballpark, home of Dakota Community Bank and Trust Field, 27 games were sold out thanks to the support from the Bismarck/Mandan community. In total, 54,600 fans came to the ballpark this past season with an average attendance of 1,517. Those numbers gave the Larks the 6th highest average attendance in the entire Northwoods League (20 teams) and the 3rd highest in the North Division.

“It’s a great honor to be recognized by our peers in the Northwoods League for a special inaugural season, but the true credit goes to our front office team for all their hard work, and most importantly, to our fans whom we couldn’t have done it without,” said General Manager of the Larks, John Bollinger.

The Northwoods League also announced John Bollinger as the 2017 Northwoods League Executive of the Year. The award, which was decided by a vote of team officials at the League’s annual fall meetings last week in Willmar, MN is given annually to the League’s outstanding executive.

Of this award, Bollinger said, “I don’t take too much credit in individual awards, but it means a lot to see our vision here is working. I am so blessed to have people around me who not only see the vision, but also help make it happen.”

Bollinger is entering his fifth season in the Northwoods League and second as General Manager in Bismarck. He previously served as the General Manager of the Kalamazoo Growlers. Prior to coming to the Northwoods League he worked for two years as the Assistant General Manager of the Southern Ohio Copperheads, a summer collegiate baseball team in the Great Lakes League, where he oversaw sponsorship sales, servicing and business operations. Before that he worked in ticket sales with the Springfield Cardinals, the AA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.

“The Bismarck Larks organization as a whole, and its outstanding General Manager John Bollinger, richly deserve the dual honor of Organization of the Year and Executive of the Year respectively, bestowed upon them by their Northwoods League peers this year,” said Northwoods League President Gary Hoover. “The wonderful alchemy of a great community, talented leadership, and focused energetic teamwork, combined to create an amazing result. We congratulate the Bismarck team, John, and are truly grateful for their supportive fans in the region.”

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CENTURY HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNA NAMED MISS AMERICA Cara Mund made history on September 10th as she was crowned the first Miss North Dakota to become Miss America. Cara Mund graduated from Century High School and is an Ivy League Honors Graduate from Brown University. After her year as Miss America, she plans to attend law school at the University of Notre Dame.

At age 14, Cara founded North Dakota’s Annual Make-A-Wish Fashion Show.

For 10 years, Cara has brightened 23 Wish Kids’ lives, became a “Certified Wish Granter,” and raised over $78,500 for Make-A-Wish. In 2011, President Barack Obama recognized Cara’s charitable efforts. Cara’s recent work in the United States Senate and her passion for helping others ignited her own wish — to become the first Miss America from North Dakota.

Cara’s parents are Doug Mund, Senior Project Manager at Bartlett & West (33 years) and DeLora Kautzmann Mund, Psychologist at Bismarck Public Schools (30 years).

Join in the celebration at Cara’s Miss America Welcome Home Party on Saturday, November 4th at 3:00pm. Tickets available at etix.com or at the Event Center ticket booth.

Newly crowned Miss America, Cara Mund.

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AGENCY REMINDS EMPLOYERS OF A VALUABLE WORKFORCE RESOURCE

Employers competing for workers in North Dakota’s tight labor market where the unemployment rate hovers around two percent cannot afford to lose experienced employees, especially due to permanent injuries or impairments. The Department of Human Services’ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) team is available to help employers retain current employees and connect with qualified applicants.

Last federal fiscal year, the division made over 2,200 employer contacts and helped 613 North Dakotans with disabilities obtain competitive, integrated employment in their community.

“We offer individuals with disabilities counseling, training, education, assistive technology, and job search and placement support so they can become employed or stay employed. We also connect businesses with prospective employees and resources to assist with on-the-job training, workplace accommodations and modifications, and ADA concerns,” said acting division director Robyn Throlson.

To receive DVR services, individuals must have a disability that is an impediment to employment, and they must want to work and be available to work, said Throlson who described the average client as age 37 with a physical or cognitive disability.

While North Dakota is among the leading states in the employment of people with disabilities, this workforce resource is underutilized, Throlson said. In 2015, about half of the 38,112 working-age adults with disabilities in North Dakota were employed.

During October, which is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Throlson encouraged employers to learn more about vocational rehabilitation services by contacting the regional office serving their area. Contact information is available online at www.nd.gov/dhs/dvr/ about/regional-contact.html.

“The people we work with are motivated,” she said. “Last fiscal year, 87 percent of our clients were still working nine months after achieving their employment goal.”

“Our team of vocational rehabilitation professionals assists North Dakotans with all types of disabilities who range in age from teenagers in high school to people over age 65. Clients appreciate the career exploration, counseling and guidance DVR offers,” she said.

In addition to helping employers fill job openings with qualified applicants, DVR staff also offer rapid retention services to employers when an existing employee is at risk of losing his or her job because of a disability.

The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation works in cooperation with Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation, the centers for independent living in North Dakota, Job Service North Dakota, Adult Education, and other workforce development partner agencies to address workforce needs and to develop an inclusive, highquality workforce in the state.

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CBL PROPERTIES CONTINUES TRADITION OF CLOSING ON THANKSGIVING DAY CBL Properties, owner and manager of Kirkwood Mall, announced that their portfolio of market-dominant regional shopping centers will close on Thanksgiving Day and open at 6:00am on Black Friday, November 24th.

“The support that we received last year when we made this decision was overwhelmingly positive,” said Stephen Lebovitz, President and CEO, CBL Properties, “It is based on this feedback from our retail partners, employees of CBL and retailers at our properties, as well as the customers in our markets that we made the decision to again close our centers on Thanksgiving Day.”

Department stores, movie theaters, restaurants, and retailers with exterior mall entrances will have the option to open their stores on Thursday. However, access to mall common areas will be restricted until 6:00 a.m. on Friday. Patrons should check their local center’s website for more specific information. Click here for a list of CBL properties.

LOCAL BANKS COLLECT 45,000 ITEMS FOR EMERGENCY FOOD PANTRY

The shelves were looking quite bare at the Bismarck Emergency Food Pantry, so the timing of the fourth annual “Banking for the Food Bank” competition was perfect.

Sandi Crimmins of the Bismarck Emergency Food Pantry thanking participating banks and announcing the top three.

Eight banks participated in the project: Bank of North Dakota, BNC National Bank, Choice Financial, Dakota Community Bank, First International Bank and Trust, First Western Bank and Trust, Kirkwood Bank and Trust, and Starion Bank.

The banks collected donations from Oct. 1-15. When they arrived for delivery, each bank turned in a sealed envelope to Sandi Crimmins, co-chair for the food pantry. In the envelope was each bank’s official count of how much they collected. After the food items were unloaded, Crimmins thanked participants who had gathered.

“It’s incredible,” she said. “This is our biggest drive every year. Thank you all so very much.”

A total of 45,202 items were collected, exceeding last year’s collection by nearly 17,000 items. Crimmins then announced that the winner was BNC National Bank and presented them the traveling trophy.

“This is about the banks coming together to help the community,” says Heather Heinle, coordinator of the food drive and a Starion employee. “Last year six banks participated and this year there were eight. Hopefully Banking for the Food Bank keeps growing so we can continue to help stock the shelves for the Bismarck Emergency Food Pantry and those who utilize their services.”

30 | Chamber Connection

TOTAL RESOURCE CAMPAIGN MOVES INTO PHASE 2

www.bismarckmandan.com

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

During this 16-week campaign, we take the time to introduce business members to the value of their Chamber membership. This is a way for you as members to select the programs and advertising opportunities that are most profitable for your business. It is an opportunity to ensure you are getting a return on your investment and marketing your business to the fullest.

We have completed our “renewal period,” which provides renewing sponsors first right of refusal on any events they were part of the year prior. Now, all events and programs are open to all members!

Contact David Leingang, dleingang@bismancc.com, to set up a meeting to see where your organization can become involved.

See the different programs, events and ways you can get involved with the Chamber online at bismarckmandan.com/pages/TotalResourceCampaign.

The Total Resource Campaign is a one-stop shop for Chamber sponsorships and involvement.

Sign up for Chamber programs and events that are most profitable for you and your business.

There is truly something for everyone!

For more information, contact Karly Palczewski or Dave Leingang by calling 701-223-5660.

SIGN UP TODAY!

When it’s time for a new car, a new kitchen or a New York vacation, talk to someone who gets it. Talk to the personal lending experts at First Western Bank & Trust. We’re a full-service bank, trusted for more than 50 years in western North Dakota. In Bismarck, see Lacey Klose — an experienced Consumer Loan Officer who can help you finance the good things in life. When you need a loan, see First Western Bank & Trust in Bismarck. You can bank on us.

LACEY KLOSE

Consumer Loan Officer

When you need a loan,

you can bank on us. firstwestern.bank Member FDIC

324 Third Street North, Suite 3, Bismarck 701-255-4400 Chamber Connection | 31

COMMUNITY

NEWS

ASK-A-PRO

Perks

Ask a Pro with

STEVEN DIFFELY at

1100 NE 57th Ave, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-258-1944

Q: WHY DO I NEED TO DO PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE ON MY VEHICLE? A: Getting regular preventative

maintenance done on your vehicle is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle safe and to save money on possible future repairs. The basic preventative maintenances, like changing your oil, getting your tire pressure checked, and scheduled inspections or work done are just like getting regular checkups at the doctor. Going to the doctor keeps you healthy and can give you—and the experts—a chance to catch anything serious before it causes a huge problem.

With your vehicle, getting preventative maintenance done can save you thousands.

32 | Chamber Connection

with

JOEL BLANCHARD, MD at

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

Q: WHAT IS THE HEARING CONSERVATION PROGRAM (HCP)?

A: The Occupational Health and Safety

with

STEPH SCHEUER at

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

Q: HOW CAN I MAXIMIZE MY ADVERTISING DOLLARS? A: When it comes to advertising, we may

think the best way to reach the masses is via commercials, newspapers, brochures, magazines, billboards, social media, Google, YouTube. #BUYALLTHEMEDIA. Let’s put the breaks on the ad express.

While it pays to advertise, it’s important we do it in the most cost-effective and successful way possible.

First, take a look at your current An HCP outlines how an employer will customers. Who are they? Why do they protect employees from noise exposure and it designates someone to manage the buy from you? Next, demographic. Who can benefit most from your product or plan. The HCP must also: service? Think age, gender, location • Investigate and implement and other factors. From here, you can engineering controls if available. craft messages tailored to each of your • Educate employees about the risk of audiences. Targeting allows you to focus your ad spend and message on a specific hearing loss. market more likely to buy from you than • Provide hearing protection at no cost other markets. to employees.

Once you know whom you’re targeting, • Obtain a baseline audiogram within it’s much easier to determine which types six months of an employee’s first of media are best to reach them. Detailed exposure at or above the AL of 85dB. demographic data helps hone in on the right age group for TV and radio. Digital • Obtain an annual audiogram for employees exposed at or above the media targeting options are abundant AL to be compared to their baseline based on age, interests, if they’ve already visited your website, even if they happen audiogram, determining if there’s a change in hearing called a Standard to drive by your location.

Defining your target audience is one of Threshold Shift (STS). those best practices that will enhance your brand and set you up for success.

Administration (OSHA) has standards to protect employees from hearing loss at work. If employees, on average, are exposed to noise levels at or above the action level (AL) of 85dB over an 8-hour period, then the employer must have a hearing conservation program (HCP).

www.bismarckmandan.com

Ask a Pro with

with

with

at

at

at

DR. COLE KREOFSKY

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

Q: I’M 56 YEARS OLD AND HAVE BEEN A SMOKER FOR YEARS. WHAT SYMPTOMS SHOULD I LOOK FOR LUNG CANCER? A: The biggest risk factor for lung cancer

remains smoking. Lung cancer may not produce any noticeable symptoms in early stages and many people aren’t diagnosed until the disease is advanced. Importantly, the United States Preventative Services Task Force now recommends annual screening CT Scan for people 55-80 years old who have a 25-packyear smoking history.

Signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include: • Lasting cough or hoarseness (most common)

ROB NAGLE

214 E Main, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-751-0399

may be overwhelming, but don’t worry, there are mortgage lenders and real estate professionals who can help guide you through each step of the process.

STEP 1 Find a knowledgeable mortgage loan professional. This person should be able to answer your questions, and educate you in all the first-time home buyer programs that are available. If you qualify, these programs could help provide down payment and/or closing cost assistance.

• Coughing up blood

• Unintentional weight loss and extreme fatigue

STEP 3 Find a local real estate professional who can assist you in finding the home of your dreams.

• Recurring infections like bronchitis or pneumonia • Rapidly developing facial swelling • Fingernail “clubbing”

It is important to talk to your medical provider if you have concerns. It caught at an early stage, lung cancer is often treatable and controllable.

1502 Grumman Lane, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-255-7180

Q: I AM A FIRST-TIME Q: IS YOUR BUILDING’S HOMEBUYER; HOW DO I START INSULATION ALL IT’S THE BUYING PROCESS? CRACKED UP TO BE? A: Thinking about buying your first home A: If a building lacks appropriate

STEP 2 Get pre-qualified. This step helps you learn how much home you can afford and what can fit into your family’s budget.

• Breathing difficulties that become progressively worse

STEVE FLATEN

Now is an exciting time to buy, there are many great homes available with fantastic interest rates as well. The three steps above should get you off to a great start on investing in your future by building equity in a home!

insulation, simply adding more can create problems for material durability as it causes exterior walls to go through more freeze-thaw cycles. To further complicate matters, if humidity levels are elevated on the interior of a building due to the activities going on inside, the walls and roof will soon exhibit staining, damage, and deterioration.

It’s important to understand the dynamics between walls, existing insulation, and new insulation, as these can all cause a dew point to occur. In order to appropriately prevent condensation, mold and deterioration of wood and steel, insulation and a strategically placed vapor barrier is required on the interior to stop moisture and air passage. In turn, this can protect your building from increased freeze-thaw cycles on the structure‘s exterior and reduce the possibility of unintended damage.

If terms like R-value, permeability, water intrusion, vapor drive and dew point are foreign to you, then the Building Science professionals at Braun Intertec can assist in the evaluation of your building before changing the insulation.

Chamber Connection | 33

COMMUNITY

NEWS

CHAMBER Perks

ASK-A-PRO

PERKS

NDSC Welcomes New Staff Member

The North Dakota Safety Council has hired Malinda Weninger as an accounting assistant.

Weninger has an associate degree from the North Dakota State College of Science and Malinda Weninger over 30 years’ experience in New Employees at accounting, budgeting and Dakota Eye Institute grant management. She will assist the accounting Dakota Eye Institute recently department with credit card deposits, class hired Shannarae Fischer, Tammy reconciliation, invoicing and more.

Ingles and Emily Sandvick as EMC Insurance Companies ophthalmic technicians. They perform initial screenings and Announces Promotion, New Hire Shannarae Fischer preliminary eye function testing and Earned CPCU Designation in for patients prior to seeing the Bismarck doctor.

EMC Insurance Companies announces a Fischer is a native of Bismarck, promotion, a new hire and an earned CPCU ND. Ingles is from Driscoll, designation at the Bismarck Branch in North Dakota.

ND and attended Interstate Evan Grant has been promoted to administrative Business College. Sandvick is support associate VII. Grant joined EMC in 2011 and a native of Fond Du Lac WI and manages facilities, vendor relations and information Mandan, ND. Tammy Ingles technology within the Branch Administrative Dakota Eye also recently Department. hired Karen Johner to join their Samantha Lawson has accepted the position of team as a receptionist. Her administrative assistant. Lawson has a bachelor’s responsibilities are to check degree in business administration from the University in patients, verify information of Mary. She was most recently a project manager at a and make future appointments. local technology company.

Johner is a native of Mandan, Leslie Watson has been awarded the Chartered ND and attended Minot State Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) professional University.

Emily Sandvick designation by the American Institute for CPCU. The American Institute for CPCU is an independent, nonprofit educational organization that confers the Bianco Realty Sales Awards CPCU designation on persons who complete eight Bianco Realty has named Shirley Thomas and rigorous courses, national exams and meet its ethics Lisa Wilhelm-Lindberg “REALTORS® of the Month”! and experience requirements. Watson started with Thomas and Wilhelm-Lindberg had the most closed EMC Insurance Companies in 2009 in the rating sales at Bianco Realty for the month of September department and moved to commercial underwriting 2017. Thomas has been a licensed REALTOR® since in 2012. She currently assists agents in Oregon.

2001 and Wilhelm-Lindberg has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2004.

34 | Chamber Connection

Sanford Health Welcomes Nurse Practitioner and OB/GYN

Mandy Papke, FNP, nephrology, recently joined Sanford Seventh & Thayer Clinic Mandy Papke in Bismarck. As a nephrology provider, she will diagnose and treat kidney disease and disorders in adolescents and adults. Mandy graduated from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks with a Master of Science in Nursing.

Rachel Peterson Rachel Peterson, M.D., OB/ GYN, recently joined Sanford Obstetrics & Gynecology in Bismarck. Dr. Peterson is a Mandan native and will see patients by appointment for annual exams, women’s health screenings, gynecological issues and low and high risk obstetrics. She graduated from University of North Dakota School of Medicine in Grand Forks and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology from University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Neb.

Securian Financial Advisor of the Month

Securian Financial Advisors of ND, Inc. is pleased to announce that David Wald has been named Advisor of the Month for September based upon his production and service to his clients. Wald has been a representative with Securian David Wald since August 2008 and he is a Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative of Securian Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC.

www.bismarckmandan.com New Agents at Century 21 Morrison Realty

Jeff Fetch

Jo Ellen Kralicek

Ashley Pulver

Amy Bower

Alicia Rixen

Century 21 Morrison Realty is honored to introduce the newest members of our team of professionals.

Jeff Fetch is from Bismarck and a past BHS grad. He brings with him over ten years of experience in the customer service industry.

Jo Ellen Kralicek is from Bismarck and along with her husband Mike, has raised their three children here. She brings 25 years of customer service and sales experience, as well as a deep knowledge of the local area.

Ashley Pulver is from Bismarck and has two kids with her husband Zach. She looks forward to providing the Gold Standard in service to her clients.

Amy Bower brings great energy and 18 years of real estate experience. For her, clients come first. Bower works to be in constant communication with her clients to keep them fully informed throughout the entire process.

Alicia Rixen is a graduate of UND. She many years of sales experience and most recently worked in the real estate industry for five years.

Amy Hullet brings a wealth of experience and years of clientcentric service to our team. She is the recipient of numerous Quality Service Awards, Production-based Awards, and the Realtor of the Year for our local board as well as for the state.

Amy Hullet

KLJ Adds to Leadership Team

Emily Johnson has been promoted to Vice President of Corporate Communications and Branding. In her new role, Johnson will lead and manage development and implementation of the Emily Johnson Company’s brand, including internal and external communication. She works in the Bismarck office and joined KLJ in 2010 and most recently served as Corporate Strategy and Implementation Director.

First International Bank & Trust Welcomes Wingenbach

First International Bank & Trust (FIB&T) is proud to welcome Eric Wingenbach as the Human Resource Recruiting Administrator. Eric comes to FIB&T with great experience in Human Resources and Recruiting. His primary Eric Wingenbach responsibilities at FIB&T will be to provide the necessary recruiting support to hiring managers throughout our organization. He will be actively recruiting for various positions across the footprint, focusing on producer positions.

Eslinger Named STEM Leader

Gateway to Science Center announces the recent hiring of Kimberly Eslinger as its STEM Leader.

Eslinger has a degree in Technical Education from Valley City State University and over 15 years’ experience teaching various technology related curriculum. As STEM Leader, she will promote and arrange Science, Technology, Engineering and Math programming both on and off-site through hands-on projects and events like STEMZone, Field Trips, and special events.

Alliance Real Estate Welcomes Newest Agents

Tammy Olson was raised in Bismarck and has worked in the insurance industry for 20 years as a commercial lines Tammy Olson underwriter. She is excited to help you with your real estate needs.

Jasmin Yoder was born and raised in Germany until the age of 13 when she moved to Bismarck. She is a licensed social worker and spent many Jasmin Yoder years in retail. Jasmin has been interested in real estate since childhood and is ready to help you on your journey into home ownership.

Bill Dean has seven years of real estate investing and remodeling under his belt and is ready to help with all real Bill Dean estate needs from buying a first home to investing in a dream home and everything in between.

Melvie Qualified for the Chairman’s Advisory Council

Loren Melvie, CFP® a Private Wealth Advisor with Legacy Financial Partners, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc in Bismarck, was recently named to the 2017 Chairman’s Loren Melvie Advisory Council for the 3rd time.

Melvie qualified for the prestigious Chairman’s Advisory Council based on distinguished performance. He joins other top-ranked advisors to discuss current issues and business opportunities with Ameriprise Financial Chairman and CEO Jim Cracchiolo and other Ameriprise Financial leaders. The Chairman’s Advisory Council was established in 1984 and advisors qualify each year based on superior business results.

Herman Named Among Farmers Top Agents in the Country

Kyle Herman, of Bismarck, North Dakota, has been named a Championship agent by Farmers Insurance® for his outstanding achievement and customer focused efforts by the Los Angeles-based multi-line insurer.

Herman was selected on the basis of a number of criteria, including his distinction in providing exceptional service to customers and a commitment to furthering the goals and standards of Farmers Insurance.

Helling Promoted to Director of FBO Operations and Marketing

Bismarck Aero Center is proud to announce that Shae Helling has been promoted to Director Shae Helling of FBO Operations & Marketing.

Helling, a native of Alexander, ND, has been with Bismarck Aero Center (BAC) for five years where he progressed from Marketing Intern to now leading a team of aircraft refueling experts.

As a University of Mary graduate, Helling has a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Business Administration and a Masters in Project Management. While in school, he was awarded the University of Mary Presidential Award and the 2012 Marv Borgelt Award for outstanding senior in the School of Business.

Along with his work now, he volunteers his time in the community with the Young Professionals Network and with the Bismarck/Mandan EAA Chapter.

Helling’s new position at BAC combines his leadership strengths in relationship building and marketing. He has a team approach first and is steadfast in his commitment to ensuring that continued results at BAC come from the hard work and empowerment of a unified team. Helling will also continue to lead all marketing strategies for Bismarck Aero Center.

Chamber Connection | 35

COMMUNITY

NEWS Choice Finanicial Promotes Eiseman and Karsky

Deb Eiseman was recently promoted at Choice Financial to President for the Bismarck market.

Deb Eiseman Eiseman joined Choice Financial as Senior Vice President/Business Banking Officer in June of 2014. She has over 25 years of experience in commercial banking. Eiseman graduated from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND., with a Bachelor’s of Science in Tim Karsky Accounting.

Tim Karsky was recently promoted at Choice Financial to Managing Director of Business Development.

Karsky joined Choice Financial as Bismarck Market President in June of 2014. Prior to joining Choice Financial, Karsky was a Market President with another financial institution for four years and served as Commissioner of the ND Department of Financial Institutions for more than nine years.

Karsky is highly involved in the banking community as the Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of North Dakota. He also serves on the Board of Trustees at the Graduate school of Banking in Colorado and is the former Chairman of the Conference of State Bank Supervisors.

ASK-A-PRO PERKS Larks Announce DJ Engle as New Assistant Coach

Along with changing seasons comes changing rosters. No stranger to this, the Bismarck Larks have welcomed a new assistant coach to their roster for the upcoming season.

DJ Engle, current assistant coach at Division III Lakeland University (Wisconsin), will stand alongside current Lakeland University and Bismarck Larks head coach Sean Repay as he and the Larks enter their second season in the Northwoods League.

Coach Engle, originally from Milwaukee, WI, was chosen as a Wisconsin Baseball Coaching Association All-Star in high school. He continued his impressive record playing for colleges like the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee and Chicago State University. He pitched for the Battle Creek Bombers of the Northwoods League in 2014 and, that same year, was honored Region Pitcher of the Year. Engle’s coaching background extends from 2012 where he headed the West Allis Nathan Hale JV Baseball team to his current assistant coach position at Lakeland University and 15U Zepp coach and instructor at the Prospect Training Academy.

BSC President Named to National Panel Rethinking Higher Ed Accreditation

Bismarck State College President Larry C. Skogen has been named to a new Higher Learning Commission (HLC) panel, the HLC Partners for Transformation, tasked with rethinking higher education Larry Skogen accreditation practices.

BSC has long been a model of innovative delivery, Skogen says, citing the distance learning within the Dakota Nursing Program and the online delivery by the National Energy Center of Excellence as two standout examples.

Starion Bank Receives Highest Rating from BauerFinancial

Starion Bank has received a five star “superior” rating from BauerFinancial, the nation’s leading independent bank and credit union rating firm.

BauerFinancial has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. Star ratings are assigned on a scale of zero-to-five stars, with five being the strongest, and are based on the overall financial picture of the financial institution.

The ratings are independent, meaning no institution is able to pay to be rated or excluded.

NOVEMBER 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.

Thur, 2nd

5:00 pm Bismarck Board of Adjustment

Mon, 6th

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

Tue, 7th

5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

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

5:15 pm Burleigh Planning Commission Thur 9th

Mon, 13th

5:30 pm Morton County Commission *

Tue, 14th

5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 15th

Thur, 16th

5:00 pm Bismarck Planning Commission

5:15 pm Bismarck School Board 5:30 pm Mandan Park Board *

5:15 pm Bismarck Park Board

Mon, 20th 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission

5:30 pm Mandan School Board * 36 | Chamber Connection

Tue, 21st 1:00 pm Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board

5:30 pm Mandan City Commission Wed, 22nd

5:30 pm ITG (Political Subdivisions)

Mon, 27th

Tue. 28th

5:15 pm Bismarck School Board 5:15 pm Mandan Planning Commission * 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission 5:30 pm Morton County Commission *

Thurs, 30th 5:15 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

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.

James River Café 612 E. Boulevard Ave. Bismarck, ND Edgar Oliveria (701) 751-5996 Restaurant located inside of the world-class North Dakota Heritage Center.

Station West Bar & Grill 412 West Main Street Mandan, ND Edgar Oliveria (701) 751-6010 Family friendly bar and grill on Main Street in Mandan.

Chesak Seed House 220 N 23rd St Bismarck, ND Jeff Neuberger (701) 223-0391 Chesak Seed House is a retailer of grasses, wildflowers, and cover crop seed. We serve agricultural, commercial, and residential use. Since 1943, we’ve specialized the best for the upper Midwest.

Prairie Venture Group Inc. 716 N. 21st Street Bismarck, ND Bill Dean (701) 471-9506 Our goal is to educate and grow our customers’ knowledge of buying, selling, investing or improving their largest asset - their home.

Probitas Promotions LLC 2720 E Broadway Ave. Bismarck, ND Michael Leier (701) 557-3983 Probitas Promotions’ objective is to connect with you to explore goals, obstacles, and opportunities to create excellent promotional solutions.

Path to Pono, LLC Bismarck, ND Sandy Thompson (701) 400-7190 Assistance for family members looking for relief from the effects of addiction on their lives. Also provide recruitment, retention and supervision consultation for small to medium sized businesses.

BSN Sports Bismarck, ND Scott Woodmansee (701) 527-9900 BSN SPORTS offers everything from corporate branded polos, jackets, or hats to commemorative gifts, promotional giveaways, and awards. We are your full corporate branding solution.

YEARS

there’s so much to be thankful for Join us at our Open House as we celebrate and give thanks for 20 years of serving our community.

November 14, 2017, 3:00-7:00 pm 4909 Shelburne St., Bismarck

refreshments will be served Chamber Connection | 37

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 Chelse Simon at 701-223-5660 or email csimon@bismancc.com.

TOUCHMARK - KINGSLEY Tabby Fletcher, and staff at their new independent living homes on 1000 West Century Ave. in Bismarck. Phone: 701-323-7000.

Member.

ELITE EYE CARE Jessica Keller, Owner at her new business on 4401 Coleman Street Ste. 102 in Bismarck. Phone: 701-390-1315. Member.

100 WEST MAIN

LUCKY’S PUB 13

Randall Schold and Rob McCready, MetroPlains, LLC, at their new Senior Living Apartment Complex on 100 West Main in Bismarck. 701-232-1887. Member.

Chad Martin, General Manager at their new location on 915 South 3rd Street in Bismarck. Phone: 701-751-7913.

PATH TO PONO

GOALROBBER HOCKEY SCHOOL

Sandy Thompson, Owner celebrating her new homebased business. Phone: 701-400-7190. Member.

38 | Chamber Connection

Nate Speidel & Devon Butz, Owners celebrating their new business on 1341 South 20th Street Bismarck.

Phone: 701-202-5317.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!

THRIVE ANESTHESIA

THE INNOVATION SCHOOL

Kelli Gabel & Lura Spears, Co-Owners celebrating their new business on 2000 Schafer Street Suite E Bismarck.

Phone: 701-934-2395.

Maggie Barth, Educational Architect celebrating their new business on 613 N. 3rd Street Bismarck. Phone: 701-354-1100.

Member.

ART ALLEY 5.5 PROJECT

ART FROM THE HEART

Leadership Class, celebrating the completion of the project.

117 N. 5th Street Bismarck. Phone: 701-222-6640.

VERITY HOMES Arthur Goldhammer, owner, celebrating the completion of the “Home for Hope”. 3100 N. 14th Street #1 Bismarck.

Phone: 701-354-2846. Member.

Nina Loeks, Owner celebrating her new business on 311 N. Mandan Street Suite #4 Bismarck. Phone: 701-226-0165.

Member.

BARTLETT & WEST Jame Todd, and staff at their new location on 3456 Century Avenue Bismarck. Phone: 701-258-1110. Member.

Chamber Connection | 39

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

Upcoming Chamber Events

Tuesday, November 7, 2017 Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center 7:00am — Doors Open/Breakfast 7:30am — State of the Cities Address Purchase tickets online at www.bismarckmandan.com

THE {FULL} LIFE AWAITS AT TOUCHMARK! Choose a move that fits your needs.

“All the conveniences of home are right here! Our home is the ideal location for socializing, and the optimistic attitudes brighten our day!”

—Bobbe & Dick Green, 6 years living at Touchmark

New Independent Living and Memory Care Homes Now Open!

Single-family Homes & Apartments • Health & Fitness Club Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Support • Memory Care

Learn more or schedule a tour: 701-557-9289 • TouchmarkBismarck.com TO U C H M ARK ON W E ST C E NT URY 1000 West Century Avenue • Bismarck, ND 58503 • TouchmarkBismarck.com 1716058 © Touchmark, LCC, all rights reserved