January Chamber Connection

CHAMBER CONNECTION Bismarck-Mandan

January 2015

STUDENT

CURRENT STUDENTS

FUTURE PROFESSIONALS

CHAMBER

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Member Profile Diversity Homes, Inc.

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Bank on a Good Time Cash in at the 10th annual JA Monopoly Tournament on February 21st.

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25th Annual Dinner Spend the night in Monte Carlo with a chance to win big and hit the jackpot in the new year!

CHAMBER CONNECTION Executive Committee Rick Matteson.................................................................................................................... Chair Perrie Schafer ........................................................................................................... Chair-Elect Molly Barnes................................................................................................................ Secretary Brenda Nagel...............................................................................................................Treasurer Annette Behm-Caldwell............................................................................................. Past Chair Kelvin Hullet................................................................................................................ President

Board of Directors Chad Moldenhauer ����������������������� K&L Homes Chris Brown �������������������������������������������� Motix Dave Hoekstra ������������������������������� BNC Bank Marc Taylor...........Northern Plains Equipment Ken Rutter............ Basin Electric Power Coop. Rick Matteson �������������MDU Resources Group Lee Pierce...................... Al Fitterer Architects Dan Pearson �����������������������������Northwest Tire Norm Clark .............................Gate City Bank Wayne Munson �������������������� Indigo Signworks Jeff Essler ������������������������������������������ H.I.T. Inc. Greg Vetter �������������������������University of Mary Mike Schmitz ...................... Widmer Roel, PC Ron Day......................Tesoro Mandan Refinery Annette Behm-Caldwell.....Open Road Honda Perrie Schafer ���������������� Schafer Financial Inc. Brenda Nagel ������������������������������������������Aetna Jeff Herman ������������������������������������Petro Hunt Sandi Tabor �������������������������������������������������KLJ Craig Larson ���������������������������Starion Financial Molly Barnes............... Northern Improvement Kevin Magstadt ������������������ Wenck Associates Jeff Albers ��������� Schwan Buick GMC Cadillac Paul Brucker ������������������� Railway Credit Union Gary Miller.................... CHI St. Alexius Health

Chamber Staff Kelvin Hullet................................................................................................................ President Susie Kocourek.................................................................................... Senior Program Director Sally Paulson................................................................................................... Program Director Ryan Parsons....................................................................Membership & Publications Director Peg Iszler.......................................................................................Director of First Impressions Annie Bergrud.........................................................................................Chief Financial Officer Amanda Schwieters......................................................................... Member Services Director Rebecca Rattei................................................................................ Communications Specialist Hannah Haynes................................................................................................................. Intern

h c n a r B Mandan ! n e p O w No

CHAMBER NEWS LBM Learn About Local Military/Emergency Services JA Spring Kick-Off Scheduled Chamber Holiday Mixer Wrap-Up

CHAMBER EVENTS January Membership Mixer: KLJ 25th Annual Dinner Lunch & Learn presented by Sister Thomas Welder Chair’s Corner

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FEATURES Cover Story 4 Member Profile 8 Ask-A-Pro 34 Chamber Perks 36 1640 Burnt Boat Drive P.O. Box 1675 Bismarck, ND 58502 701.223.5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com Contact Information: Content: The Chamber - 701.223.5660 rparsons@bismancc.com

Advertise: Ryan Parsons rparsons@bismancc.com

MISSION STATEMENT: Leaders for prosperity. Advocates for business.

www.BNCbank.com

(North of Walmart)

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Jason Arenz President, Mandan

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COLUMNS

2711 Sunset Drive NW

eet the m d n a Stop in team. n a d n a M

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Jayme Renner Loan Originator NMLS# 1039846

Travis Hirsch

Personal Banking Officer

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elcome to 2015 —a time that finds many of us hanging up a new calendar, making new resolutions and thinking about fresh beginnings.

Among the many strengths of Chamber membership is that we don’t have to start anew every January. Last year we developed a long-term strategic plan, and already are well down the path implementing pieces of it. The four pillars of this plan are far-sighted enough to overcome the short-term challenges that sometimes weigh us down, and are broad enough to welcome the wide range of dreams and aspirations that those in the Bismarck and Mandan communities have for our future.

Chair’s Corner

The growth that our communities are experiencing would have been unimaginable a decade (or less) ago. This growth brings challenges and discomfort, but Mandan and Bismarck are going to become larger communities regardless of whether we like that. The Chamber’s challenge — and responsibility — is to find consensus in solutions that leave this a better place to live, work and play.

We will succeed because of the impressive talent within our membership, and because we have civic leaders who appreciate and value what can be achieved by working together in public-private partnerships.

At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities for businesses to feed, clothe, house and entertain our growing communities, and serve our many other needs. A fundamental part of the Chamber’s mission is to encourage and support the men and women who grasp these opportunities; their success will help us to build and sustain the type of community that can attract and retain the employees we need, and where our children will want to remain and raise their own families.

We have a lot of work ahead of us, but the road doesn’t look nearly as steep when we consider that our Chamber membership is 1,291 strong. Kelvin Hullet provides exceptional leadership, and he is supported by an outstanding staff, but they need our collective voice to be fully effective.

I hope each of you will participate in some of the many opportunities to contribute, ranging from a variety of committees to issue forums and educational seminars, to attending our monthly mixers where you can exchange views with other members.

I want to thank our 2014 Chair, Annette Behm-Caldwell, for her great vision and leadership. Annette, our Executive Board, Board of Directors and Chamber team have given us the gift of a well-thought-out strategic plan that will guide us for many years into the future. It will be an exciting journey, and I am privileged to serve as Chair for the 2015 portion of the trip.

- Rick Matteson

www.bismarckmandan.com

Current students. future professionals.

By Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications The Student Chamber at the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce is an educational program designed to develop students’ interest in the community, foster leadership skills and create relationships between students and community leaders. Since its start in 2004, 85 students have participated in the Student Chamber, and the value of this unique program continues to be illustrated by the success of its many participants.

2014-2015 Student Chamber

“When this program was started, I looked around the U.S. and there really wasn’t any other program like this,” said Sally Paulson, Chamber program director.

“I saw a gap between our Junior Achievement and Leadership Bismarck-Mandan programs, and this created an opportunity to reach high school students.”

Juniors and seniors from each high school in BismarckMandan, with a minimum 2.0 GPA and an interest in their community, are nominated to apply for the program, and two representatives from each school are chosen.

“Each month students meet for a different Issues Day,” said Paulson. “We bring community leaders to speak and present on topics such as leadership, ethics, financial literacy, politics, law, and business and economic development.”

Doran Schwartz, chief financial officer for MDU Resources Group Inc., has volunteered with the Student Chamber for a number of years and says the program provides students the opportunity to learn about business and leadership from others that have “already been there.”

“We get the chance to interact with the students, and it never ceases to amaze me the talent that is included with participants on the Student Chamber,” he said. “It is a unique opportunity to interact and provide insights that can help in the process of leadership development and increase the pool of informed, committed, young emerging leaders.”

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“Students get a chance to hear the ins and outs of many issues and ask questions of the people who are really involved at all levels,” added Paulson, noting Student Chamber members also assist with Chamber events and perform service projects. “It really gives them a chance to also see how the Chamber works.”

Jerry Hauff, president of Cornerstone Banks, says the program gives students a much broader sense of their community. “It opens up a new world and the opportunity to see how business leaders interact with each other.

It gives students a perspective they won’t get in the classroom.”

Hauff has seen the impact of the program on his own three sons, whom have all participated in the Student Chamber. “Youth are the future business leaders,” he said, adding together his sons have now started their own business, Threefold Video Production. “It’s been exciting to watch them as they step out, take some risks and start a new business on their own. That was influenced by their experiences at the Chamber.”

All agree the Student Chamber is also playing an important role in retaining the state’s young leaders.

“The youth is the best resource we have,” said Hauff.

“One of the top challenges we have in Bismarck-Mandan is attracting and retaining the next generation of leaders.”

But Paulson says there has been a shift in the view of the community among participants. “Students are now seeing Bismarck-Mandan as a place they can go to school, stay and raise a family.”

She says the program also offers many additional benefits to the community, schools and students. “This creates a common ground between the different schools and a better understanding for the students of the local community and where they fit in.”

In addition, the Student Chamber gives students the opportunity to volunteer, join civic organizations and be future leaders in the community. “You have a group of informed and committed young leaders,” said Paulson.

“Every year I am so impressed by these young students.”

For more information on the Student Chamber, contact Paulson at 223-5660 or visit www.bismarckmandan.com.

Student Chamber Alumni Cam Knutson served on the Student Chamber from 2006-2008 and says it was a valuable learning and networking experience.

“I was able to get together with people from schools across Bismarck-Mandan,” he said, adding it also provided an inside look at the Chamber. “It expanded my viewpoint on what the Chamber did in the community.”

Following his graduation from St. Mary’s Central High School, he attended North Dakota State University (NDSU) where he joined many student clubs and organizations. “This eventually led to being elected student body president alongside Keenan Hauff, a fellow Student Chamber member,” said Knutson.

Now living in Fargo, Knutson works for the Kilbourne Group, a real estate development company that works as a catalyst for downtown revitalization. “My hope for the future is to return to Bismarck to raise a family and focus on developing real estate.”

“I am extremely grateful for my time on the Student Chamber,” he continued. “The organization introduced me to some of the facets of Bismarck-Mandan that I had never been exposed to before.

The Chamber also connected me with a number of people that are still good friends today.”

Cam Knutson

Fellow, Kilbourne Group

He says the Student Chamber is distinctly different from other student organizations. “If a student is interested in expanding their scope of knowledge about their community, they should join the Student Chamber,” noted Knutson. “It’s crazy to connect the dots and look back to how the Student Chamber played a role in what has happened in my life.”

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Zoe Wergeland says serving on the Student Chamber from 2005-2007 was a great fit for her interest in a future career in business. “It gave me insight into how businesses were being run in our community and instilled an interest that stuck with me through college.”

Following high school, Wergeland attended NDSU and double majored in business administration and international studies.

While at NDSU, she studied abroad at the Aarhus School of Business in Denmark, served as president of the school’s Model United Nations Club, and completed internships at U.S. Senator Kent Conrad’s office and Food Export Midwest.

Wergeland now works at the North Dakota Department of Commerce as the special projects coordinator in the Economic Development and Finance Division where she is tasked with coordinating efforts to attract foreign direct investment to the state and performing economic impact analyses. “I’m really enjoying being back in Bismarck and getting to experience how fast it’s growing,” she said.

Zoe Wergeland

Special Projects Coordinator, North Dakota Department of Commerce

When Matt Becker began his service on the Student Chamber, he said he was excited about the opportunity to become involved in the business community. “The Chamber really cares about this program and they are not afraid to put students in leadership roles where they can make an impact.”

After graduating from college, Becker became the youngest Congressional campaign manager in the country at the age of 21.

He ran North Dakota Congressman Kevin Cramer’s successful bid for the U.S. House of Representatives and now serves as Congressman Cramer’s communications director in Washington, D.C. Becker is also the founder of Live Rock Journal, a music publication featuring live reviews and photos, as well as exclusive interviews and music news on many of the industry’s top artists. “I have been fortunate to travel the country and abroad covering many of my favorite artists on tour.”

Matt Becker

Founder, Live Rock Journal 6 | Chamber Connection

He says the experiences he had on the Student Chamber had a large impact on his career path. “Meeting the movers and shakers in the business community introduced me to the power of connecting with people. I felt like I had the inside scoop on what was happening in Bismarck-Mandan,” he said. “It was really valuable because I was in a place where I was trying to figure out my career path.”

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North Dakota is meeting higher energy demands and exceeding tougher environmental standards.

While the nation’s energy demands keep rising, EPA standards keep getting tougher.

Not to worry: North Dakota power companies are meeting the challenge of demand and actually exceeding the EPA’s environmental standards. Our air quality is among the best in the nation. Learn how we’re working for both a healthy economy and a healthy environment at SecureEnergyFuture.org Chamber Connection | 7

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Left to Right (Back row): Jason Frank, Shannon Reichenberg, Brandon Brandt, Sean Schlosser, Cody Friesz, Greg Meidinger (Front row): Megan Renner, Tasha Faulk and Carmen Maier

Member Profile Featuring Jason Frank with

Diversity Homes

Q: Briefly tell me about yourself and your role within the organization.

A: My name is Jason Frank and I am the founder and owner of Diversity Homes. I was born and raised in the Bismarck/Mandan area. I have been involved in the local construction industry for over 20 years. I am responsible for overseeing our staff and the day to day functions of Diversity Homes.

Q: Briefly tell us the history of Diversity Homes, Inc. A: Diversity Homes was incorporated in 2009. Initially I was the only employee of Diversity Homes with intentions on building five to 10 homes per year.

Within the first year Diversity Homes was building approximately 15 homes and I hired one employee.

By the second year of operations we were building approximately 20 homes and had three employees.

Today our company consists of nine employees and we build approximately 50 homes per year ranging in price from $225,000 to $1,000,000 plus.

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Q: What differentiates your company from its competitors?

A: Diversity Homes takes a hands on approach with our customers. No matter the price of the home, we want every customer to know they are just as important as the next. We go with our customers when it comes time to pick the products and materials that will create their next home. We have also earned a reputation of being a contemporary builder with high quality standards.

Q: How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted your company?

A: We have benefited from the growth of the BismarckMandan area by being able to provide housing for our growing population. Not only has the growth allowed for us to assist people in moving up from a current home, but we have had the opportunity to assist many first time home buyers as well. The local economy has helped take out company from a small start-up to a quality, established builder in six years.

Q: What industry trends are taking place?

A: As land and home prices have increased people are putting more thought and time into their new homes to make sure they are getting the home that best suits their family. Our industry is continuously seeing new products from flooring, to plumbing fixtures, to appliances, to complete home automation.

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

A: Over the last couple of years home building in the Bismarck-Mandan area has endured some drastic changes. Land prices increased substantially in 2012 and 2013 before leveling off. This along with increased material and labor costs have required builders to find ways to cut costs in order to keep housing as affordable as possible. There has been an influx of out of state builders creating various challenges. Many of these builders have since left with market stabilization.

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

A: The future of homebuilding is exciting. New ideas from customers, product innovation, and technology continue making each house we build its own work of art. Bismarck-Mandan is experiencing healthy, stable growth that will keep people looking for their next new home.

Q: Diversity Homes, Inc. has been a member since 2013, why did you choose to renew for 2015?

A: Networking and name recognition. Being a Chamber member has allowed us networking and community involvement opportunities that are invaluable. We have a young staff and intend to be a part of the BismarckMandan community for years to come.

Q: What should Chamber members know about your company that may assist them within theirs?

A: Our company makes all employees voices heard. We have a small staff in comparison to many companies, but no matter the staff size we firmly believe giving employees opportunity to express their ideas keeps them more involved. Also, without customers we wouldn’t be where we are today. No matter the type of business it is paramount to remember without the customer, your business could not be where it is today or go where your vision for tomorrow takes you. Lastly, we are able to assist any home buyer with any size, type, style and price range of home.

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701.255.1091

www.eidebailly.com

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Leadership BismarckMandan:

Military/Emergency Services Day

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS + STRATEGIES turning ideas into action and action into results

www.netcenter.net 800.723.5353 Fargo | Grand Forks | Bismarck

The class started out with a briefing about the involvement of Disaster Emergency Services. There have been 33 presidential declared disasters since 1993. Their duties are to bring order from chaos. Local government can also decide emergency’s for communities. FEMA was created in 1979.

Homeland Security and State Radio combined with ND Department of Emergency Services in 2005. In some emergencies the National Guard gets involved; the Governor will ask for the Guard’s emergency response and depending upon the disaster, Federal Troops can also be activated depending upon the emergency.

The Guard is always ready to be activated. The State Emergency Services operations is on a 24/7 basis. What has or can your company do in an emergency response to support your local community? The class participated in a mock disaster, talking about emergency plans their businesses use; some class members decided they need to develop a plan or change what is in place. A great insight on how to prepare and what the community could possibly be dealing with and how we all need to be prepared. We were all reminded to look at our own most vital services in order to continue our business operation and plan accordingly.

The North Dakota Employers Support of the Guard & Reserve informs and educates service members and their employers on rights of those involved in the Guard. We depend upon the volunteer members of National Guard & Reserves since we no longer have a draft.

Our thanks to the following: Issue Day Chairs: David Leingang - Exploring Leadership Solutions/

Mandan Diner & Soda Fountain Jennifer Jackson - UBL Design Group Lori Ledahl - Aetna Presenters: Sean Johnson - Plans Officer-Department of Emergency Services Brenda Vossler - Department of Emergency Services Larry Regorrah - Department of Emergency Services Shirley Olgeirson - North Dakota Employers Support of Guard & Reserve Warren Pauling - LTC-North Dakota Army National Guard Gary Stockert - City of Bismarck Emergency Services Tom Doering - Morton County Emergency Services

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JA Spring Kick Off Scheduled!

If you missed the first group training for Junior Achievement (JA) in October, it’s not too late. The Spring JA Kick Off is here. Please mark your calendars for Thursday, Jan. 29th from 4:00-5:00 p.m. The Kick Off will be held in the Energy Industry Room at the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber.

Who should plan to attend? If you’ve ever been curious about JA, but didn’t know how to take that first step, you’re invited to attend this informational session. It will give you the bare bones facts about JA.

Premier Sponsor:

If you’re a “veteran” of the JA program, either as an educator or a volunteer, this is a great time to get the year rolling, pick up kits, and meet with your team member, if you’ve been matched with one.

JA’s goal this year is to reach 250 classrooms and to do so, we need your help. You may fill out a volunteer registration form on the JA website at www.bismanja. org RSVP for the Spring JA Kick Off online at www. bismarckmandan.com/events, by calling 223-5660 or emailing spaulson@bismarckmandan.com.

Bank on a Good Time!

Would you like to have a lot of fun and help out a great cause while doing it? On Saturday, Feb. 21, Junior Achievement of Bismarck-Mandan (JA), along with Town Square Media (Stations Hot 97.5, The Fox 96.5, Cool 98.7, and Super Talk 1270) will be hosting the Junior Achievement MONOPOLY® tournament. All proceeds benefit Junior Achievement in Bismarck-Mandan schools and all contributions to JA are tax deductible.

Registration for the tournament starts at 9:00am, and the tournament starts at 10:00am. The first round will last 90 minutes and the winner will be determined by who has the most assets at the end of that 90 minutes. A free lunch will be served between the first and final round.

Winners of each table then go on to the final round in each age category (grade 4-8, 9-12, and adults) to compete for the grand winners.

Junior Achievement is looking for volunteers to be “bankers” at the tables. Volunteers don’t have to be a real banker to participate. JA will host a training session to get everyone up to speed for this tournament. Roughly 30 bankers are requested to man the tables.

Help at the registration tables in the morning also is sought.

The JA Monopoly Tournament is not possible without strong community support; from volunteer workers to game players.

Junior Achievement guarantees participants will have an absolute blast.

Please consider helping out or playing the game on Saturday, February 21st at Sunrise Elementary in Bismarck. JA is a great cause and the tournament will be a really fun day, to boot!

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Holiday Mixer wrap-up

That’s a wrap! The 2014 Chamber Holiday Mixer was once again a huge success. Nearly 100 businesses came to display their products and services, Tuesday, December 9th at the Bismarck Event Center. Over 1,200 Chamber members and guests attended the Holiday Mixer and wandered through a maze of exhibits, hors d’oeuvres, refreshments and networking opportunities.

This wonderful event was made possible by our Platinum Sponsor, Schwan Buick GMC Cadillac. Additional sponsors include Silver Sponsor Bismarck Event Center, Bronze Sponsors Cellular Communications, Leingang Home Center, Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota. Thank you to our Hors D’oeuvres Sponsors Lady J’s Catering and Minerva’s for providing delicious snacks and to all of our wonderful booth sponsors who entertained guests with fun games and door prizes!

Thank you to everyone who made this event a huge success!

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Presented by:

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25th Annual Dinner Membership mixer: KLJ Date: Thursday, January 8, 2015

Location: Time:

Fees:

Bismarck Event Center, Exhibit Hall A & B 6:00PM - Social 7:00PM - Dinner $55 for members; $75 for non-members

Help the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce celebrate our 25th Annual Dinner on Thursday, January 8th. We have an elegant evening planned to transport each of our guests to a night in Monte Carlo.

For this year’s extravaganza line-up, we will be incorporating a sophisticated casino feel (black-tie optional). Dress to impress and gamble the night away, while sipping on sweet martinis and chances to win big.

The social begins at 6:00pm and dinner will be served promptly at 7:00pm. RSVP to the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber by visiting our website at www.bismarckmandan.com or by calling 701-223-5660.

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Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, January 22, 2015 KLJ 4585 Coleman Street, Bismarck 5:00PM - 7:00PM Free to Attend

KLJ is proud to be hosting this month’s Membership Mixer on Thursday, January 22nd. Join KLJ’s clients and members of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber for some hors d’oeurves, refreshments and business after hours. Mixers are free to attend, so please feel free to bring along your co-workers and enjoy a wonderful evening!

RSVP’s can be done online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or by emailing aschwieters@bismancc.com. If you have any questions you can contact Amanda at 701-223-5660.

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“A Night in Monte Carlo”

The Chamber staff is especially excited about planning this year’s 25th Annual Dinner event. Scheduled for Thursday, January 8th, 2015 the 25th Annual Dinner will transport our guests to Monaco for a night in Monte Carlo.

This year’s extravaganza will begin with a social hour for all at 6:00pm. and dinner will be served at 7:00pm. There will be a delicious dinner followed by an exciting night of gambling, sipping on a selection of signature drinks and chances to win big!

This elegant evening is full of fun, networking, awards, recognition and the reappointment of Jamshed Merchant as Honorary Consul for Canada in North Dakota, presented by Consul General Merchant.

This is a wonderful night for members to showcase their company while enjoying time with their spouse, co-workers, and VIP clients. A sophisticated black-tie (optional) is strongly encouraged.

Tickets are required for admittance and will need to be shown at the door. Tickets for members are $55 each and the cost for general admission is $75. Come and enjoy the evening with more than 1,000 fellow Chamber members. You don’t want to miss this celebration! Tickets may be purchased online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or by calling the Chamber at 223-5660. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and a fantastic way to be recognized at one of our Premier events.

Tickets will be available until Monday, January 5th, 2015. Tickets must be purchased before the event and will not be available at the door.

Thursday, January 8, 2015 Bismarck Event Center, Hall A & B Social at 6:00PM Dinner at 7:00PM Tickets: $55 for Chamber Members; $75 for General Admission

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Distinction.

Service.

Leadership.

Visionary leaders stir others and inspire them to discover and cultivate their best gifts and talents.

They are a blessing to their organizations, their communities, and the world beyond.

Through our Lunch & Learn Series, The University of Mary and the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce invite our community to gather, learn and share with us.

Save the Dates!

January 13th

Sr. Thomas Welder President Emerita at University of Mary

events

Lunch and Learn

Presented by Sister Thomas Welder Date: Location:

Time:

Fees:

Tuesday, January 13, 2015 Gary Tharaldson School of Business University of Mary 11:30AM - Lunch/Social 12:00PM - Presentation Free to Attend Lunch is included

Visionary leaders stir others and inspire them to discover and cultivate their best gifts and talents. They are a blessing to their organizations, their communities, and the world beyond.

February 10

Through our Lunch & Learn Series, The University of Mary and the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce invite our community to gather, learn and share with us.

March 10th

Join us on Tuesday, January 13th from 11:30am - 1:00pm.

Please RSVP online at www.umary.edu/lunchandlearn.

Lunch is included.

th

Ms. Roxana Saberi Author, Journalist and Miss North Dakota 1997

Mr. Clay Jenkinson American Humanities Scholar, Author and Educator

Lunch from 11:20am - 12:00pm Speaker promptly at noon

Space is Limited!

Please RSVP by December 12th www.umary.edu/LunchandLearn 18 | Chamber Connection

Too Early to start thinking about Spring?

2015 MIXER

Absolutely not!!

The 2015 Spring Mixer is scheduled for Tuesday, April 16 at the Ramkota from 5:00pm - 8:00pm. Make sure you get this date on your calendar. We have a few booths left for this event, with an estimated attendance of over 650.

If you have not yet reserved your booth and would like one, contact Susie at the Chamber 701-223-5660 or e-mail at skocourek@bismancc.com.

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e t a D e h Save t Membership mixer: Bank of North Dakota Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, February 5, 2015 Bank of North Dakota 1200 Memorial Highway, Bismarck 5:00PM - 7:00PM Free to Attend

Join us for the February social Thursday, February 5th from 5-7 p.m. at Bank of North Dakota. Come and learn more about two outstanding programs, DEAL One, the popular student loan consolidation announced last April and College SAVE, the state-sponsored 529 plan. Guests will enjoy the delicious array of hors d’oeuvres and a chance to visit with legislators. Great door prizes include an iPad, three $100 College SAVE contributions to a new or existing account and BND gear. Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend, so bring your co-workers and have some fun!

Membership mixer: Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge

Date: Location:

Time: Fees:

Thursday, February 26, 2015 Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge 900 S. Washington Street, Bismarck 5:00PM - 7:00PM Free to Attend

Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge is hosting the Membership Mixer this month on Thursday, February 26th. Join fellow Chamber members for some refreshments, hors d’oeuvres and some business after hours.

Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend. Please consider joining us and bringing along colleagues for a fun evening. You can RSVP by calling Amanda at 701-223-5660 or online at www.bismarckmandan.com.

RSVP’s can be done online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or by calling Amanda at 701-223-5660.

Make plans to attend the 2nd annual Masks in the Moonlight Charity Ball!

This exciting event features an evening of mystery, intrigue, and fun. Enjoy dinner, dancing, a live and silent auction and more. All proceeds benefit the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.

For ticket information, contact the Bismarck Cancer Center at 701-222-6119.

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S I XT EEN 03 MAIN EVENTS Chamber Connection | 19

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Starion Financial receives SBA Director’s Award

PERKS

Starion Financial received the Director’s Award from the North Dakota District Office of the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Lenders are chosen annually for their commitment to small business financing using SBA programs. Starion is among 10 North Dakota lenders being recognized and was the second largest lender of SBA loans in the state. In fiscal year 2014, Starion approved 18 loans and $1.9 million in small business financing under the SBA 7(a) Loan Program.

“Starion is a family-owned business that was founded on the vision of helping individuals and communities, so our dedication to small business owners is ingrained in our culture,” explains Starion President/ CEO Craig Larson. “We know how important strong financial support is for a small business, whether that business is a start-up or has been around for 25 years.

When a small business flourishes, entire communities benefit and Starion is proud to help these businesses succeed.”

This is the fifth year that Starion has received the SBA Director’s Award.

20 | Chamber Connection

Bismarck tops list of thriving capitals Bismarck finds itself on top of a list of America’s Top 12 Thriving State Capitals. The list was developed using data on population growth, per-capita income growth, unemployment rate and poverty rate. Growth in population and per-capita income boosted a city’s score, and growth in the unemployment and poverty rate reduced it. 2012 data, the latest numbers available, was compared with 2010 data.

Thanks in large part to the state’s energy boom, percapita income here grew faster than anywhere else, and the drop in the poverty rate was second among all state capitals. Even though the unemployment rate was extremely low (3.2 percent) to begin with, it dropped even further (to 2.8 percent). Only one state capital (Pierre, SD) has a lower unemployment rate.

City population: 61,941 Population growth: 3.3 percent Change in per-capita income: 10.1 percent Change in unemployment rate: -12.5 percent Change in poverty rate: -9.3 percent TOP 12 THRIVING STATE CAPITALS: 1. Bismarck, ND 2. Juneau, AK 3. Frankfort, KY 4. Helena, MT 5. Baton Rouge, LA 6. Augusta, ME 7. Denver, CO 8. Montpelier, VT 9. Columbus, OH 10. Boston, MA 11. Oklahoma City, OK 12. Richmond, VA

Governor’s Budget Address Governor Jack Dalrymple presented his 2015-2017 Executive Budget Recommendations during the Legislature’s Organizational Session Wednesday in Bismarck. The $15.7 billion Executive budget includes $2.2 billion in one time general fund spending in areas including infrastructure, education, housing, workforce and state parks and conservation; $3 billion in infrastructure investments statewide; and $408 million in additional tax relief.

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Increases with impact on Commerce’s Tourism Division include: Base Budget • $247,836 additional funding for Tourism international efforts

One Time Funding • $1.0 million increase for tourism-related marketing in the mid-western markets.

• $750,000 for large infrastructure grants to attract, retain and entertain North Dakota citizens and visitors to the state. (First added in 2011) • $2.0 million grant for the Special Olympics, if North Dakota is selected as the site of the next national games.

• $500,000 to match private contributions for image/ workforce recruitment campaign (Find the Good Life in North Dakota initiative).

• $30.4 million for capital improvements and expansions at state parks.

The legislative session begins on January 6th with the commerce budget to be heard in the House of Representative in early January.

Upcoming Legislative Dates: • Early January - Commerce Department budget to be heard in House Appropriation sub committee • January 8th 10 am – Tourism media conference Governor’s conference room State Capitol • January 23rd – Tourism Day at the Legislature Memorial Hall State Capitol • February 27th – Crossover • Early March – Commerce Department budget to be heard in Senate Appropriation • April – Conference Committee appointed to reconcile Commerce Budget • April 29th – Last allowable day of session- Final Budget approval

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• Premier logo recognition in the quarterly newsletter • Premier logo recognition at the Summer Camps or Art & Wine Sessions • Logo recognition in the Annual Garden Walk brochure, program, event advertisements and at each garden • 8 THEO Art School Event Tickets

Silver Sponsor - $300/year

• Logo recognition in the quarterly newsletter • Logo recognition at the Summer Camps or Art & Wine Sessions • 4 THEO Art School Event Tickets

For more information, contact Liliana Norby (701) 222-6452 or theo_art_school@hotmail.com www.highprairiecomplex.com/theo 1810 Schafer St., Bismarck, ND 58501 Chamber Connection | 21

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Opinions of Others Help Mandan Improve for Residents, Visitors & Businesses The Mandan Tomorrow — Leadership, Pride and Image Committee conducted its fourth annual survey of residents from other cities this fall to assess external views of Mandan and help improve the city. As a whole, Mandan’s image is positive to neutral. Only 24 percent of respondents indicated having a negative image of the city.

A majority of the 432 respondents, two-thirds from Bismarck and one-third from other locations, continue to recognize Mandan’s strong sense of community, growth, and quality of life. The parks and recreation system as well as events and activities are also identified assets.

Attributes where potential exists to heighten awareness include: • Sources of fun and adventure for visitors and residents alike, • Desirability as a place to live including continued low crime rates despite population growth, • Mandan’s economic opportunities for businesses and career opportunities, and • Student achievement and the quality of the public school system.

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The topic of property taxes now appears neutralized with very few mentions. Mandan and Morton County officials have made an ongoing effort to reduce property taxes and to communicate that Mandan’s ranks in the middle of the state’s largest cities.

Aspects of the community where a combination of substantive improvement and more marketing is needed include: • Mandan’s appearance, • Mandan as a place to visit and as a place to do business, and • Perceptions of progress, hampered by views that growth is associated with crime.

The LPI committee will use survey results to direct 2015 community marketing activities and other initiatives. Members encourage elected officials and other civic leaders to use findings to address concerns and capitalize on opportunities to increase Mandan’s competitiveness for businesses, residents and visitors.

The committee has a website, www.madeinmandan. com, to provide information on community marketing projects and access to the “Made in Mandan” logo. A “Made in Mandan” Facebook page engages citizens in sharing good news about business openings, events and citizen achievement. Businesses, civic organizations and others are welcome to partner in the community marketing initiative. To learn about ways to participate, visit the website or call the City of Mandan Business Development and Communications office, phone 6673485.

The LPI committee, charged with helping to implement a community strategic plan, is made up of business and citizen volunteers. Members are Laurie Leingang, Kristi Entzi, Melissa Frohlich, Marci Goldade, Damian Huettl, Pam Mack, and Kelly Steckler. Staff liaison is City of Mandan Business Development and Communications Director Ellen Huber. Anyone interested in serving on the committee is encouraged to contact the BismarckMandan Chamber, phone 223-5660.

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BSC and partners receive $9.9 million grant

Bismarck State College and Consortium partners have received a $9.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to support job-driven technical programs related to energy, transportation and construction.

BSC will lead the Training for Regional Energy in North Dakota (TREND) Consortium, including three additional North Dakota colleges. The award provides funding to develop and expand innovative training programs to address skilled labor shortages primarily in the energy sector in partnership with local employers.

The TREND Consortium grant recipients are BSC - $4.1 million, Williston State College - $2.0 million, Sitting Bull College - $1.7 million, and Turtle Mountain Community College - $2.1 million. The TREND Consortium received its first grant of $14.6 million from the Department of Labor grant in 2012.

The grant funding will be used to develop new certificate programs, enhance career navigation services, expand current programs, and design technology-based learning for students. Options include short-term classes and career planning aimed toward high skill and high wage jobs for people who are unemployed, underemployed, and working but trying to get a better job.

”We appreciate the support of our North Dakota Congressional Delegation with this grant award and to be able to build upon the successful foundation that has been established with our first Department of Labor grant,” said Kari Knudson, Vice President of the National Energy Center of Excellence. “This funding provides the consortium with more capacity to support students’ attainment of industry-recognized certificates and degrees through enhanced student support and retention.”

Primary TREND industry partners include the North Dakota Petroleum Council, Tesoro, WBI Energy, Inc., Murex Petroleum, Bakken Safety Training, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Montana Dakota Utilities, and a number of construction and equipment businesses.

Source of the money derives from a $2 billion U.S. government commitment over four years to fund the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training grant program. This is the fourth and final award year of grants offered nationwide through the Department of Labor, which implements the TAACCCT program in partnership with the Department of Education.

“BSC’s target programs include energy programs that are already established. The grant provides an opportunity to expand and enhance lab equipment and simulation and attract more students to energy programs,” said Emily McKay, TREND consortium director.

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Standards Based Education explained

By Tamara Uselman, Bismarck Public School Superintendent In Bismarck Public Schools, we believe it is a social, moral, and economic imperative that all students graduate “choice ready” for college, career, and community. We believe all students must be “skilled up” so they can select the career they wish, the post-secondary education they want, and the citizenship necessary for community life. In other words, our BPS baseline is for ALL to have that choice upon graduation.

Will some still achieve beyond this baseline? Of course. But understand the difference today is the baseline is a higher expectation than existed previously and it is a baseline expected for all students, not just the top one-third.

As one measure of post-secondary readiness, North Dakota juniors take the ACT college readiness exam which has benchmarks in four core areas: English, math, reading, and science. In 2014, 23 percent of ND juniors and 22 percent of our BPS 11th graders met or exceeded the ACT college readiness benchmarks in all four categories. We have work to do to meet the imperative for the 78 percent who are not prepared.

Learning: Part of that work in our district involves a guaranteed and viable curriculum, taught to a standard, regardless of teacher or school. At BPS, we continue to create consistent grade level expectations for students and show their growth or progression towards a learning target. When we do our work right, students and their parents know what the end goal is (proficiency in a certain subject area) and they understand their progress towards that goal. Students become accountable for their learning, and specific learning feedback is available to students and parents. BPS has always given feedback with traditional grading but the feedback was after the fact rather than during the learning.

It is feedback DURING the learning that best increases students’ opportunity to achieve.

Grading: Have you heard of standards based grading? Think of it as “growth based” grading or feedback used to inform the learner about his or her academic growth toward mastery of a high standard of achievement over time. Students may be a “1” at the start of the year or unit because they are just beginning to understand the grade level standard.

It is expected students will grow in their understanding through good teaching, practice, and assessment feedback.

Earning a “3” means the high standard has been reached or achieved (proficiency). A “4” is earned when student understanding excels beyond the standard for the grade level. Unlike a typical practice in traditional grading, students do not lose points for the rate at which they become proficient. For example, in traditional grading, a student may fail an exam and then grow to understand the material, earning an A the second time she is tested.

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In traditional grading, this student may earn a final grade of C (the average between the F and the A) even though her understanding is now at grade level proficiency.

When the standards based environment is well designed, students know the academic standard they must learn and demonstrate proficiency on and they receive feedback as to their status compared with the standard. This is valuable information because standards are scoped and sequenced across grades. Standards in 8th grade, for example, build upon those in the lower grades, like 5th, 6th and 7th.

Mastering academic standards is important for current and future learning.

Report Cards: Eight years ago BPS started implementing standards based grading in all subject areas with incoming kindergarteners and the goal was to extend standards based reporting through grade eight. We currently use standards based grading in grades K-7 with plans to add grade 8 next year. What will happen at the highs school? Will number grades replace letter grades? No, I don’t see it, not in the foreseeable future. ND Century Code requires letter grades for scholarships. Colleges still use letter grades, though there is an industry suspicion that letter grades are inflated.

So while I believe high schools will use letter grades long into the future, grades will become more indicative of true proficiency. This is because high school classes are using the North Dakota academic standards, faculty are building their skills in standards based instruction, and they are using assessment data to inform teaching and learning in an effort to reach each unique student.

While change is not easy and it is normal to get uncomfortable during the change process, knowing each student’s mastery of academic content is important. It is the best hope we have of preparing ALL students for college readiness and the ACT. There is room for that 22 percent (and more) to excel beyond grade level proficiency just as there is room for the 78 percent to grow substantially in academic skill.

One worry I hear is that work habits such as being prepared for class and good attendance will not matter. Is there room to report on work habits, such as turning in assignments on time and being responsible? Absolutely. Work habits are critical in the real world. We believe task management is so important it should stand outside academic achievement.

Both matter; both should be reported with clarity. In the traditional system, proficiency is not demanded, lack of proficiency is reported, and task management skills are blended into grades without clarity in the reporting of the final letter grade. We work toward the day when parents ask, “Now what? Now what will be done if Billy earned a D in algebra? How will Billy be “choice ready” unless the triad of student, parent, and teacher build proficiency?”

Homework: To excel in sports, music, and academics, students need individual practice as well as guided practice. That’s what homework is—practice. Homework that is “purposeful” provides practice of skills and results in growth in academics, just like it does in sports or music. For example, an athlete might practice 100 free throws at home, go to practice where his level of performance is studied and enhanced by the coach, and he may perform in a game.

A student musician might go to band class where the instructor can see his or her current level of competence and then advise the student about what to practice. The student can practice a difficult piece at home and then practice again in class and finally perform at a concert. The practice at home in sports, music, and academics prepares students for activities in school and for performances on formative and summative assessments. Students should be able to identify areas of strength and work with the teacher and parents to improve weaknesses, practices which prepare students for assessments. “Practice” work done at home and returned to school should receive feedback, but that practice work may not necessarily be scored and averaged into a final grade. From the traditional grading mindset, the immediate question might be, “Why would a student do homework if it doesn’t count?” It does count as a measure of current understanding. If the understanding is grade level proficient, the homework on that part of the standard should cease. If the understanding is not at proficiency, the practice must continue. The incentive, then, becomes “do it as right as you can in a timeframe as quickly as you can because you have to do it anyway”.

This is different from the “I will take a D and move along” paradigm.

Parent Communication: Parents have offered quality feedback about standards based reporting. We have heard there needs to be a change to traditional grading. We have heard we need to refine the “levels of proficiency”, which is a fancy way of saying be clearer about what a “4” means, what a “3” means, etc. Parents have told us they want resources to help their children learn specific standards so they can practice at home. We are working double time to provide additional, deeper, clearer communications about standards and reporting in the form of teacher communications, classroom/team newsletters about the current academic standards, school meetings, and online resources which will improve over time, like PowerSchool.

I began this article by saying “In Bismarck Public Schools, we believe it is a social, moral, and economic imperative that all students graduate ‘choice ready’ for college, career, and community.” I do not mean to imply it is not only people inside the school who want this. Parents want this. Students want this. In order to deliver on this promise for all students, BPS has work to do and communications to improve.

This article outlines the importance of teaching toward a high academic standard and of reporting to parents and students the progress a student is making. Under standard based teaching and learning, the importance of task management increases and should be reported separately so students and parents can see what the child knows and how the child manages his or her work. Practice work done at home becomes very important and feedback from it should be used to personalize learning.

Your child and my child may have different gaps in learning yet both deserve that chance to graduate career, college, and community ready. We will continue our efforts to improve parent communications. In the meantime, if you have additional feedback for me about standard based education and grading, please contact me at my office, 701-323-4054.

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U.S. BANK RANKED IN TOP 100 MILITARY FRIENDLY EMPLOYERS

G.I. Jobs Magazine has named U.S. Bank one of the nation’s Top 100 Military Friendly Employers® for the fourth consecutive year. The 2015 Military Friendly Employers® represent those companies with the strongest military recruiting programs and meaningful job opportunities for transitioning service members and spouses seeking civilian employment. The ranking is featured in the December issue of the magazine, and online at www.militaryfriendly.com.

“I am proud and honored that U.S. Bank is being recognized again by G.I. Jobs for being a Top 100 Military Friendly Employer,” said Richard Davis, chairman, president and chief executive officer of U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB), the parent company of U.S. Bank.

“Seven years ago we developed Proud to Serve, which helps service members identify areas at U.S. Bank where their skills and interests might be a match. We continue to reach out to veterans and those serving in the Guard and Reserve through our Bankers in Boots recruiting program. We also provide resources to help them and their families to help ease the transition to civilian life.”

In addition to its Proud to Serve program the bank operates a Military Leader Development Program; offers newly hired veterans extra paid time off to participate in re-integration activities or attend to service-related medical issues; offers eligible employees up to two weeks paid leave in connection with a family member’s military service; and operates the U.S. Bank Military Service Center, a dedicated customer service line for military members and their families. The center is staffed with bankers familiar with the Service members Civil Relief Act, as well as the unique financial circumstances faced by members of the military and their families.

Approximately 2,000 U.S. Bank employees are veterans, including National Guard and Reserve members. U.S. Bank has been recognized for its hiring efforts and military friendly culture. In 2013, U.S. Bank received the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Military Times magazine named the bank to its “Best of Vets: Employers” list in 2014, the fifth year on the list, and U.S. Veterans Magazine named the bank to its list of “Top 100 Veteran-Friendly Companies” in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

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Basin electric annual meeting ushers in change while staying true to roots

A new CEO. A new Governors Gallery in a new Heritage Center. New technology. New regulations. New power plants and transmission lines.

And time-tested values.

“Member Owned, Member Driven” was the theme for the 2014 Basin Electric annual meeting.

Despite a changing membership, new load growth, and regulatory challenges on the horizon, the values that brought co-ops together to form Basin Electric remain today.

Basin Electric’s 2014 annual meeting brought in more than 1,000 member co-op employees, directors, public officials and utility representatives, and featured several updates on complex issues and developments, but woven throughout the entire two-day meeting was a reminder to all member cooperatives that they own Basin Electric and the co-op’s future is in their hands.

“There is no doubt that there are many external factors putting pressure on our family,” said Paul Sukut, Basin Electric CEO and general manager, during his Nov. 5th address to the membership. “We are responding, we are changing, and we are evolving. But if there is one thing I want to leave you with, it’s that your cooperative is strong.

We are financially strong, we are managing your assets well, we have excellent people, and we are growing in the right way.”

Basin Electric board president Wayne Peltier, representing District 9 of Minnesota Valley Cooperative Light and Power, Montevideo, MN, underscored the importance of holding true to Basin Electric’s cooperative roots. “While we have been busy with many new projects, I’d like to emphasize the common thread through all our efforts – our cooperative culture. I think embracing our cooperative roots is more critical than ever. As we lose the folks who remembered when the lights came on, and as we rebuild Basin Electric’s workforce, we must always remain true to the tie that binds us – we’re a cooperative.”

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Congratulates Financial Advisor - Troy Nelson on being named No. 1 in North Dakota on the Barron’s “Top 1200 Financial Advisor Rankings” for the THIRD consecutive year.

Troy has been a Financial Advisor since 1998 and is proud to serve the Northern Great Plains.

Troy Nelson 1701 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck, ND 58503 701-255-1196 PLR-7854-A

Barron’s Magazine, “America’s Top 1200 Finaicial Advisors, State by State.” Feb. 22, 2014. Financial Advisors’ rankings were based upon various criteria including but not limited to: industry experience, assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, regulatory/compliance record, quality of practice and philanthropic work.

The rating may not be representative of any one client’s experience because it reflects a sample of all the experiences of the Financial Advisor’s clients and is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future preformance. Neither Edward Jones nor any of its Financial Advisors pay a fee to Barron’s in exchange for the rating. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved. For more information on ranking methodology, go to www.barrons.com

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Sprynczynatyk honored with Army Engineer Association Award The North Dakota National Guard’s adjutant general, Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, was awarded the U.S. Army Engineer Association’s “Silver Order of the de Fleury Medal” at the Guard’s Raymond J. Bohn armory on Dec. 5, 2014. This prestigious engineer award was in recognition for Sprynczynatyk’s exceptionally meritorious service to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Army National Guard spanning more than three decades.

Sprynczynatyk was at the armory briefing about 200 Guard Soldiers on the first stop of his annual holiday command visits and was unaware of the award until Brig. Gen. Al Dohrmann, deputy adjutant general for the North Dakota National Guard, stepped forward and began reading a brief history of the de Fleury medal.

Dohrmann then followed up with a brief narrative of Sprynczynatyk’s achievements that earned him the medal.

Sprynczynatyk was surprised as family members entered the area carrying the medal and a large wooden frame that contained the award citation.

Sprynczynatyk’s spouse Connie Sprynczynatyk, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, placed the “The Silver Order of the de Fleury Medal” around his neck as the award citation was read aloud.

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After the presentation, a letter from North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple was read offering his and the North Dakota first lady’s congratulations. An excerpt from the letter read “As a citizen-Soldier and skilled state engineer, you have represented the best in public service. Please know that your dedicated service and leadership have enhanced the lives of citizens throughout North Dakota.”

Sprynczynatyk thanked the North Dakota National Guard family and his mentors and said “It is truly an honor to serve as the adjutant general and to be able to represent all of the great Soldiers and Airmen of the North Dakota National Guard when working with government officials and other agencies.” He also saluted the efforts of National Guard and the North Dakota Department of Emergency employees for their dedication and hard work on behalf of the nation and the citizens of North Dakota.

Among Sprynczynatyk’s achievements that earned him the award was his efforts in leading the North Dakota National Guard and Department of Emergency Services during the state’s major flood events of 2009 and 2011 in which the Guard spent 98 and 142 days on flood duty, respectively.

A traditional Guardsman, Sprynczynatyk is a registered professional engineer in North Dakota and has served in a number of key engineer positions during his civilian career prior to assuming the full-time duties as the adjutant general in 2006. The civilian engineer positions included tours as North Dakota State Engineer, North Dakota State Water Commission, 1989-2001; and Director, North Dakota Department of Transportation, 2001-2006. During his tenure in these two agencies he successfully coordinated and worked many projects with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers particularly in waterresourced endeavors.

The de Fleury medal traces its origins to the American Revolutionary War and was named after French engineer Francois Louis Tesseidre de Fleury. In 1779, de Fleury, who had volunteered to serve in the American Army, demonstrated extraordinary heroism at the Battle of Stony Point, a major defeat for the British Army and a turning point in the war. According to the U.S. Army Engineer Association, the Second Continental Congress awarded de Fleury a medal “struck in his honor” for his “intrepid behavior.”

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KUPPER SUBARU CHI St. Alexius Health PARTICIPATES IN 2014 Occupational Clinic “SHARE THE LOVE” new name and Kupper Subaru will be participating in the 2014 “Share expanded services the Love” program and selected Central Dakota Humane Society as their “hometown charity” to be added to the list of organizations that customers can select to receive the 2014 Subaru “Share the Love” donation. “Share the Love” will run from Nov. 20, 2014 to Jan. 2, 2015 and allows Subaru retailers the opportunity to select charities operating in their community to be included in a list of organizations that new owners can select from to receive a $250 donation from Subaru of America (SOA) up to $15 million. In the last six years of this program, SOA has donated $35 million to a number of charities through the “Share the Love” campaign. The seventh-annual “Share the Love” program will deliver donations to the following four national charities:

CHI St. Alexius Health’s Occupational Health and Wellness Clinic has changed its name to Occupational Medicine. Along with the name change, the clinic has expanded and now offers a full-range of occupational health services including a physicals, drug testing, occupational screenings, rehabilitation services and physical testing.

CHI St. Alexius Health Occupational Medicine is conveniently located in the Center of Excellence building on the CHI St. Alexius Health campus at 310 N 9th St. in Bismarck. For more information or to schedule services, please call CHI St. Alexius Health at (701) 5308103.

• ASPCA®

• Make-A-Wish®

• Meals On Wheels Association of America® • National Park Foundation

In addition to the national charities that are participating, the Central Dakota Humane Society will be gifted a donation check with money raised from new Subaru owners at the end of the program. “Subaru of America, Inc. and our local retailers are excited to support all of our charities on both national and local levels in this year’s “Share the Love” program,” said Thomas J. Doll, President and Chief Operating Officer, Subaru of America, Inc. “Our customers have a philanthropic spirit and giving back to the communities in which we live and work in is important to all of us at Subaru of America.”

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SpareKey Program Benefits from REALTOR Support

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The SpareKey Program received over $8,300 from Realtors, Affiliates, and guests who attended the 2014 REALTOR Convention of the Dakotas. The contributions were collected following a short presentation by Erich Mische with the Spare Key program at one of the convention functions. The collection was taken with a simple pass-of-thehat which brought in the phenomenal response.

Convention Chair, Lynnell Strothman said, “I knew our people would be generous, but I did not imagine we would reach this number.” Approximately 500 people were in attendance and it is estimated that most participated at some level.

Realtors support home ownership and wanted to help families who might be struggling to make their mortgage payment during challenging times. As a result, the Real Estate Affiliates Care Team (REACT) of the Bismarck Mandan Board of REALTORS® brought the suggestion to support the Spare Key effort to the convention committee. Mary Shelkey-Miller with MSM Realty oversaw the collection efforts at the convention.

Universal Playground Committee Announces Title Sponsor The Otto Bremer Foundation recently announced a $50,000 contribution to the Bismarck-Mandan universal playground project. The donation makes Otto Bremer Foundation the playground’s Title Sponsor. The playground, tentatively scheduled to open in the fall of 2015, will allow people of all ages and abilities to play together.

The playground project is being led by the Mandan Park District and a group of community volunteers. Including Otto Bremer Foundation’s title sponsorship, funds raised for the project total $189,340. Additionally, Mandan Parks & Recreation has committed $100,000 to the project in its 2015 budget.

The total estimated cost of the project is $500,000.

“We are excited to have Otto Bremer Foundation on board,” said Cole Higlin, Mandan Parks & Recreation director. “This donation puts us over the halfway mark in reaching our goal and bringing a much-needed universal playground to our community.”

Playgrounds created with a universal design meet the needs of everyone. Limited pieces of accessible playground equipment exist in scattered locations around Bismarck-Mandan, but they can be difficult to access and the location of the equipment often segregates users. Universal playgrounds allow everyone to interact and play together.

Concept render by Playworld Systems

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Leland Olds Station employees surpass 2.5 million safe work-hours Employees at Basin Electric’s Leland Olds Station, located near Stanton, N.D., have worked without a major workplace injury since October 2006, and the record continues to grow.

Employees at the station surpassed 2.5 million workhours without a DART incident on Nov. 3. DART refers to injuries resulting in days away, restricted or transferred, and is a measure of the severity of an injury that occurs in the workplace.

Employees have reached the 1-million work-hour milestone twice, with 1.3 million being the highest tally reached before the current run.

The 669-megawatt power plant employs about 166 people. The plant utilizes the DuPont™ STOP™ program, a behavior-based safety process that encourages employees to conduct peer reviews and give feedback without a disciplinary feel.

Volunteers urgently needed at AARC

The Abused Adult Resource Center (AARC) has an urgent need for volunteers.

One of the pressing needs is for answering the office phone at AARC at 218 W. Broadway. Another urgent need is for volunteer advocates to carry AARC’s crisis line phones during off-hours. An advocate’s role is to listen, offer support and give options. Training is provided free and covers such subjects as abusive relationships, domestic violence, sexual assault, crisis intervention and active listening skills.

AARC also needs volunteers for working at its thrift store, providing childcare at shelters, helping at special events and other activities.

Anyone interested should contact Trish Pitts at 222-8370 or by email at trishp@btinet.net

Bismarck’s Legal Team

FRONT: Levi Andrist, Amanda Peterson, Leslie Bakken Oliver, Brenda Blazer, R.J. Pathroff BACK: Jeffrey Nelson, James Cailao, Monte Rogneby, Seth Thompson, John Kapsner, Joel Gilbertson, Diane Wehrman

www.vogellaw.com 200 North 3rd Street, Ste. 201 Bismarck, ND 58501 701-258-7899 • 877-629-0705 Offices also in Fargo and Williston, ND, and Moorhead and Minneapolis, MN

Since 1978, K & L Homes has been building custom homes on a strong foundation of quality and professionalism.

Chad Moldenhauer - Builder Office: 701-258-4584 Cell: 701-220-1821

www.k-lhomes.com Chamber Connection | 31

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Bakken oil company funds BSC training equipment A donation from Hess Corporation will go toward the purchase of two hydraulic system trainers for the Mechanical Maintenance program at Bismarck State College.

Ask About Our Corporate Rates! www.expresswayhotels.com

Representatives of the company presented a check for $29,621 to the BSC Foundation Friday, Dec. 12 at the BSC National Energy Center of Excellence.

“Hess and BSC are good partners,” said Steve McNally, Hess North Dakota general manager. “The training programs help energy employers meet workforce needs with qualified, competent employees. We are proud to be part of growing North Dakota’s workforce.”

Bismarck • (701) 222-3311 180 E Bismarck Expressway

Growth of western North Dakota has created high demand for maintenance technicians. BSC’s Mechanical Maintenance program has expanded to meet that demand, but maximum class size makes it difficult for students to spend quality time on current equipment. Adding trainers will allow more students to receive hands-on training and one-on-one instruction.

“We want to make certain we can train enough students to meet the needs of industry, from our traditional employers, as well as positions created by the Bakken development,” said Gordon Binek, BSC Foundation executive director and vice president for college advancement.

Fargo • (701) 239-4303 4303 17th Ave South

Grand Forks • (701) 757-7000 4040 11th Ave South

Bismarck Expressway Inn (701) 222-2900 200 E Bismarck Expressway

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Advanced reservations required. Not valid during conventions, tournaments or special events.

Excludes economy singles. No other discounts apply.

Code 75 Expires: 4/6/2015

32 | Chamber Connection

Arriving at the Mechanical Maintenance campus in Mandan will be a basic hydraulic system (85-BH) for learning fundamental hydraulic principles, and a basic pneumatics learning system (85-BP) for introducing pneumatic principles. Both are designed and manufactured by Amatrol.

The devices will train students on mechanisms they will encounter on the job using industry standard components. The hydraulic system trains students on pumps, gauges and valves, while the pneumatic trainer teaches how those components fit into real-world applications such as robots, rock drills and truck brakes.

January Televised LIVE Government Meetings

Monday, 5th 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission

Monday, 5th 5:30 pm Mandan School Board (recorded)

Interested in selling or buying a business?

Fred Koenig can help!

Tuesday, 6th 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission Monday, 12th 4:30 pm Mandan Park Board (recorded) Monday, 12th

5:15 pm Bismarck School Board

Tuesday, 13th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission Wednesday, 14th 5:15 pm Burleigh County Planning Commission

Transworld Business Advisors of Bismarck 513 E. Bismarck Expy Suite 24 Bismarck, ND 58501 701-751-5829 www.tworld.com/bismarck

Thursday, 15th 5:15 pm Bismarck Park District Board Tuesday, 20th 5:00 pm Mandan City Commission Tuesday, 20th

7:00 pm Mandan School Board

Wednesday, 21st 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission Monday, 26th

5:15 pm Bismarck School Board

DESIGN | FABRICATE | INSTALL | SERVICE

Tuesday, 27th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission Tuesday, 25th 5:30 pm Morton County Commission (recorded) Wednesday, 28th 5:00 pm Bismarck Planning Commission Thursday, 29th 3:30 pm Burleigh County Social Services Meetings can be viewed LIVE (unless otherwise indicated) and are replayed several times on Government Access, cable channel 2. Government meetings are also available for online viewing (LIVE and Video on Demand) at www.freetv.org.

701.250.9696 3521 Memorial Hwy Mandan, ND bismarck@indigosignworks.com

Lighted Signage | Pole & Monument Signs | Awnings | Vinyl Graphics Neon | LEDs | Interior & Exterior Digital Displays | Interior Signs | ADA Digital Printing | Express Graphics

Chamber Connection | 33

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Ask a Pro with

with

at

at

Dr. Dufan

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

Q: What are the side effects of radiation therapy?

A: The side effects of radiotherapy (x-ray treatments) are generally dependent upon the part of the body treated, and also the dose required to treat the tumor.

Short-term side effects typically occur after several weeks of daily treatments; for example, treatment of the breast can result in skin dryness and a “sunburnlike” reaction, while treatment of the prostate will not result in any skin change but may result in irritation of the rectum or bladder. These symptoms generally reverse within 1-2 weeks after treatment completion.

Late side effects are uncommon, with symptoms and risk also specific to the area treated and dose employed.

34 | Chamber Connection

Pat Brunelle

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

Q: How important is folic acid to our health?

A: Folic acid, also known as Vitamin

B9, is one of the families of eight watersoluble B-complex vitamins and is found in green, leafy vegetables, broccoli, peas, corn, oranges, grains, cereals, and meats.

Folic acid is essential in the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. Low levels of folic acid have been implicated in chronic depression and mental disorders, as well as birth defects that affect the neural tube.

Positive effects of folic acid also include protection of the heart and it may help combat Alzheimer’s disease as well as protect against certain cancers.

Recommended doses of folic acid range from 400 mcg (for general adults over 18 years old) up to 800mcg (for women of childbearing age and those women that are pregnant). Talk to your doctor about conditions you have that may require higher doses. Folic acid is of great importance to our health, so much so that January is folic acid awareness month. Talk to your pharmacist or health care practitioner about supplementing folic acid.

with

Beth SchatzKaylor at

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

Q: How do I optimize for SEO? A: Want to be on the top of the

Google search results page? Then you need to fine-tune your Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy.

Search engines uses a complex set of algorithms to crawl the web for information that best relates to a user’s search query. While the methods for determining search results are mathematically complex, optimizing your SEO strategy doesn’t need to be complicated.

Cover the basics by conducting keyword research – the likelihood of strong SEO increases if you know exactly which keywords to target. Then make your digital content WORK, ensuring it is written, tagged, formatted, and linked with your SEO strategy in mind. Search engines love rich media and frequently updated pages, so keep your site fresh with new content in different mediums.

Consider running a paid search ad campaign, an economical way to jumpstart your SEO efforts.

While SEO is a key principle to keep in mind while designing your website, your page’s content should ultimately be designed to satisfy your customers, not just the search engines. SEO simply helps suggest your web content to a viewer; it is your job to deliver.

Ask a Pro with with

Chris walters at

112 3rd Street West, Suite 202, Dickinson, ND 58601 701-225-4824

Q: Why is Design-Build Delivery a good option for commercial projects?

A: Design-build has emerged as

a top choice in today’s commercial construction industry. Realizing the benefits the design-build model can provide, many construction professionals today brand themselves as design-build even though they are in “partnership” with a separate design company. A “genuine” design-build firm employs in-house architects and engineers who team with construction professionals to work together in one company under one contract. This collective knowledge and experience can provide the key differences that positively impact the overall cost and duration of the schedule. The benefits of a collaborative design-build model for business owners include single source responsibility, a guaranteed price, alternate value engineering, time savings and potential for quality enhancement. Executing a single contract for design and construction provides greater transparency of the entire process and allows for early decision making from the beginning when it is most impactful. Financial risk is reduced by using one firm that is genuinely committed to meeting the owner’s needs and budget. DesignBuild is defined by its collaborative efforts making it an optimum choice for owners looking to build or renovate on schedule and within budget.

with

Billy Ericksen at

1112 Missouri Avenue Bismarck, ND 58504 701-223-1170

Q: Should I Buy or Lease My Next New Vehicle?

A: Deciding whether or not to buy

or lease a vehicle can be a confusing process. There are many pros and cons to both options; however, many people don’t know the difference between the two.

A lease on a vehicle typically lasts two to three years and your monthly payments are lower because you are only paying for the depreciation of the vehicle while it’s in your possession. Plus, there’s a warranty on the vehicle while you’re leasing it. At the end of the lease, you are given the option to give the vehicle back or purchase it for the current value.

However, since there’s a chance you’ll be giving the vehicle back, you aren’t able to make any major modifications to it.

If you’re looking to keep your next new vehicle for a long time, buying is probably the option for you. Once you have the title for the vehicle, you can make any modifications you want to it.

Another plus to buying is that there are no mileage restrictions like the ones that come with leasing a vehicle. Therefore, if you travel often, buying is most likely the best choice. The best way to determine whether to buy or lease your vehicle is to sit down with a calculator and be honest with yourself when considering your budget, driving needs, and lifestyle.

Brynn Luger

Licensed Professional Counselor/National Certified Counselor

at

701 E Rosser Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501 • 701-751-9500

Q: I seem to get more depressed in the winter.

Why is that?

A: There can be a seasonal pattern to

some people’s depression. Commonly called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, it’s diagnosed when there’s a regular connection between the onset of depression and the season. The most common cycle is for winter or fall depression; however don’t rule out the possibility of summer or spring depression. It’s more rare to have SAD with a summer/spring component, but it is possible.

SAD is often mistaken for simple “winter blues”. It is normal to have days when you don’t feel yourself, or you feel sad or down. However, if you’re depressed for days at a time, cannot get motivated to do things you normally enjoy, if you’ve noticed changes in your eating and sleeping habits, or if you become hopeless or begin to contemplate suicide, then it is possible that you are experiencing depression and you should see a doctor as soon as you can.

Chamber Connection | 35

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McKinzie Takes AARC Volunteer/ Staff Appointed to New Roles at Special Events Post Bismarck Cancer Center

Kristen McKinzie has been hired as the new volunteer and special events coordinator at the Abused Adult Resource Center (AARC).

McKinzie has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Kristen McKinzie business management from Minot State University. Since 2010, she has worked at the Family Safety Center operated by AARC.

The Bismarck Cancer Center recently appointed three staff to new roles at the Bismarck Cancer Center.

Charity Rogstad is now The Joint Commission Coordinator.

In addition to her Radiation St. Alexius ER and Charity Rogstad Therapy duties, Charity will Trauma Nurse serve as the expert resource on The Joint Commission and Receives National expectations for compliance.

Recognition Charity has been a Radiation Rebecca Busch, RN, BSN, Therapist with the Bismarck Johnson and Misavage Join KK NREMT-P, St. Alexius Medical Cancer Center for six years.

Center trauma nurse and BOLD Rebecca Busch, RN Melissa Klein has been paramedic, has been recognized Nolan Johnson and Brad named Lead Radiation by the Board of Directors of the Misavage have joined KK BOLD Therapist. In her new position, National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Melissa Klein in its Bismarck office. she will be responsible for the for achieving 20 consecutive years as a nationally Johnson is an audio/video supervision, coordination and registered EMT paramedic. producer. Before joining KK evaluation of the radiation To maintain her status as a nationallyBOLD, he was a videographer therapy staff and the facility registered paramedic, Busch completed the most and reporter for KXMB comprehensive, recertification program for emergency maintenance and linear TV. A native of Washburn, Nolan Johnson medical technicians in America every other year. accelerator engineer. Melissa N.D., Johnson graduated Additionally, she attended a minimum of two hours has been a Radiation Therapist from the University of Mary per month of training education courses to advance with the Bismarck Cancer with a bachelor’s degree in her knowledge on new life-saving skills.

Center for eight years.

Amy Gross communication.

Busch was nationally-registered as an EMT Amy Gross is now the paramedic in 1994. While working as a paramedic

Misavage is a web developer.

Assistant Director of Operations in Garrison, she completed her Bachelor’s of Science Before moving to Bismarck, he for the Bismarck Cancer Center. She will be and Nursing degree from University of Mary. She worked in Pennsylvania and responsible for managerial, clinical and business then worked at Mercy Medical Center in Williston West Virginia, most recently as functions related to the Center’s operations. In as a nurse and a paramedic at Williston Ambulance. a systems analyst for Siemens addition, she will provide oversight and guidance to Brad Misavage She began her career at St. Alexius Medical Center in Charleston, W.Va. Misavage the Leadership Team by supporting and promoting in 2003. She also is an instructor for multiple area received associates degrees in the vision and operational direction of the Executive emergency rescue squads and teaches several lifesoftware development and web development from Director. Amy has been with the Bismarck Cancer for saving and trauma courses in the community.

Kanawha Valley Community & Technical College in 17 years.

South Charleston, W. Va.

Credit Collections Bureau Promotions

Mandi Smith (Bismarck) to Collection Representative and Ashlei Murphy (Bismarck) to Collection Advisor.

Make a difference in the community you live in.

Find a remarkable career with HIT! - Competitive Wages - Great Benefits -

- Variety of Shifts -

HITcareers.org 2640 Sunset Drive NW • Mandan, ND 701-663-0379 36 | Chamber Connection

REALTORS® Install Leadership, Give Awards

Kristin Oban

Amy Hullet

Tricia Schlosser

Tom Wellin

Jamie McLean

Kristi Bohl

Dennis Kraft

Kristin Oban, Century 21 Morrison Realty was installed as the 2015 President of the Bismarck Mandan Board of REALTORS® at the association’s Awards Ceremony and Inaugural Celebration on November 20. Also installed is Amy Hullet, Century 21 Landmark as President-elect; Tricia Schlosser, Century 21 Morrison Realty, as Vice President; and Bob Johnson with Venture Real Estate will continue to serve as Immediate Past President.

Tom Wellin, Century 21 Morrison Realty; and Jamie McLean with Integra Realty Group were installed as new Directors for the association.

They will serve three-year terms on the Board of Directors Awards Kristi Bohl, Venture Real Estate, was awarded the coveted REALTOR® of the Year Award by the Bismarck Mandan Board of REALTORS®. Bohl was recognized for her involvement in the REALTOR Association, in the community, and in business accomplishments including serving as President of the association in 2013 and serving as Vice Chair of the REALTOR Convention of the Dakotas in 2014.

Dennis Kraft, Security First Bank, received the Affiliate of the Year Award from the Bismarck Mandan Board of REALTORS® recognizing his involvement and many contributions to the REALTOR® association and in the community.

New Director of Nursing at Good Samaritan Society

Seth Fisher has been hired as the Director of Nursing at the Good Samaritan Society- Bismarck. Seth is a graduate from the University of Concordia. He comes to us from Hettinger, ND where is he was Seth Fisher the Director of Nursing at the Western Horizon Care Center.

Seth has worked at the Good Samaritan Society- Mott for eight years. We welcome Seth and are glad to have him as part of our team.

Schlittenhard Receives CHI St. Alexius Health Leadership Award

DuWayne (Dewey) D. Schlittenhard, MBA, RPh, vice DuWayne Schlittenhard president Heart/Vascular and Professional Services was presented the 2014 Sr. Boniface Timmins Leadership Award at CHI St. Alexius Health’s associate award banquet on Tuesday, October 28.

The Sr. Boniface Timmins Leadership Award is presented to a person in leadership who typifies or emulates the qualities of servant leadership demonstrated by Sister Boniface Timmins, administrator of St. Alexius Medical Center for nearly Herzig Named 40 years. Recipients of this recognition are ones North Dakota who personify the qualities of Benedictine servant Guaranty & Title Marketing Manager leadership which are characterized as being mission driven, innovative and visionary.

Jenna Herzig has been Schlittenhard has been a vice president at CHI St. promoted to Marketing Alexius Health since 1999. He oversees the Heart & Manager at North Dakota Jenna Herzig Vascular Center, Respiratory Care, Radiology, Heart Guaranty & Title Co., Bismarck, & Lung Clinic, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Rehabilitation N.D. Services, Anesthesia, adult critical care specialists, Herzig earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in the specialty clinics, Mandan Clinic and the Minot Marketing from the University of Mary. She worked Clinic. Dewey’s professional memberships include the for the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation in American College of Healthcare Executives, American the Group Sales Department as well as the Marketing Pharmaceutical Association, National Community Department before joining NDGT as the Marketing Pharmacist Association, American Society of Health Assistant in November 2013.

System Pharmacists, North Dakota Pharmaceutical Association and the National Association of Boards of Smith Joins Division of Pharmacy. Dewey is a board member of the Bismarck Vocational Rehabilitation Cancer Center, Heart & Lung Clinic Operating Board The North Dakota Department and is chairman of the board of directors of the Health of Human Services’ Division of Industry Business Communication Council.

Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) has hired Cosette Smith for Simmers Joins Bismarck Aero the new position of business Center services representative and

Joshua Simmers joins BAC counselor at their Bismarck with over 10 years of aviation Cosette Smith Regional Office. experience. He has served in

Smith will implement DVR the aviation industry in both strategic plans in the Bismarck region to promote pilot and administrative roles. awareness of services and benefits to private and During his 2.5 year tenure at public-sector employers, develop collaborative the North Dakota Department of relationships with employers, and work as a liaison to Joshua Simmers Commerce, Simmers’s role was facilitate opportunities for DVR counselors and their to promote aviation business consumers to meet employment goals. She will also opportunities within the provide vocational rehabilitation counseling to people state through various sectors including UAS, ADS-B with disabilities. and manufacturing. He also served with the North Smith earned a bachelor’s degree from Concordia Dakota Aeronautics Commission for approximately three years in the role of promoting Education and College in Moorhead, Minn. She graduated with a master’s degree from North Dakota State University’s Awareness activities within the state of North Dakota as well as piloting their Cessna 206. Most recently, (NDSU) Human Development and Family Science Program, Couples and Family Therapy option in 2013. Simmers returned from a one year tour serving our country as a Blackhawk PIC in Kosovo.

Smith is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family At Bismarck Aero Center, he will be taking over as a Therapist and has completed internships at NDSU’s Commercial Pilot in our Pilot Services Department and Family Therapy Center and Children’s Consultation will work closely with the Director of Flight Operations Network in Fargo. to meet and exceed customer expectations.

Credit Collections Bureau Announcement

Credit Collections Bureau announces that Matt Ray has been named collector of the month.

Chamber Connection | 37

COMMUNITY

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Zins Joins Integra Realty Group Inc.

Integra Realty Group Inc. is pleased and excited to announce that Brea Zins has joined our team.

Brea brings with her a wealth Brea Zins of experience and knowledge and specializes in residential sales and is looking forward to working with all of her past, current and future clients to make their real estate transactions an enjoyable experience.

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North Dakota Safety Council Hires New Office Coordinator

The North Dakota Safety Council (NDSC) has hired Dee Stanley as their new Office Coordinator. Stanley joins the NDSC with 25 years’ experience Raumi Kudrna in office and business management, including five years as the business manager Dee Stanley for the North Dakota Republican Party, and 20 years managing businesses in Detroit Lakes and Fargo.

As the NDSC’s Office Coordinator, Stanley will oversee all administrative tasks for the company, including supervising administrative staff and managing day-to-day operations. She and her team Kristen Renner will play an integral role in the membership, first aid and traffic safety departments.

Kudrna, Renner Receive Patriot Award

CHI St. Alexius Health Clinical Coordinators Raumi Kudrna, BSN, RN, CCRN, and Kristen Renner, BSN, RN, CCRN, recently received the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR).

Kudrna and Renner were nominated by Staff Sergeant Lance Good, North Dakota Sanford Therapists Receive National Guard, State Medical Detachment. SSG Good is an Sequential Oral Sensory ICU registered nurse at CHI St. Certification Alexius Health.

Kirsten Gieser, speech pathologist, and Brittany The ESGR Patriot Award reflects Jossart, occupational therapist, recently received the efforts made to support certification in the Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) citizen warriors through a wideApproach to Feeding through Toomey and Associates.

Kirkwood Bank & range of measures including With this certification, Gieser and Jossart will help flexible schedules, time off prior Trust Welcomes parents and caregivers identify and resolve medical, to and after deployment, caring Allard behavioral, and/or developmental factors that may be for families and granting leaves contributing to feeding difficulties for children.

Kirkwood Bank & Trust of absence if needed. In return, welcomes Steve Allard as a the soldier brings responsibility, Bianco Realty Sales Awards Credit Analyst. He is a native maturity and technical skills to Lance Good of Devils Lake. He graduated Bianco Realty has named Shirley Thomas and the workplace.

Steve Allard from University of North Dakota Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve is a Judy Maslowsi associates of the month. Thomas and with Bachelors of Business Maslowsi had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty Department of Defense office that was established for the month of November 2014. Thomas has been Administration in Finance and Investments. Steve in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding joined the banking industry in 2011. He and his wife, between Reserve Component Service members and a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Maslowsi has Danica, recently moved to Bismarck from Grand Forks. their civilian employers. been a licensed REALTOR® since 2007.

He will be working out of Kirkwood Bank & Trust North Bank.

Erickson Receives Highest Award

Wentz Named NDGT South Region Sales & Business Development Manager

Brent Erickson has won the highest award for achievement for his participation in the Dale Carnegie Course he completed in Bismarck, ND. The recipient for the award is voted on by class members upon completion of the course series. The criteria for this award is to exemplify the principles of Dale one of two certified hand therapist within Sanford Carnegie training throughout the course, demonstrate Health in North Dakota. Vatnsdal-Geck received this significant personal and professional development, certification through the Hand Therapy Certification careful preparation and are showing leadership Commission (HTCC). In order to achieve this certification, Vatnsdal-Geck was required to document in the class. Brent is a Project Manager with HDR Engineering located in Bismarck, ND. For more five years of occupation therapy practice, 4,000 information on the next Dale Carnegie opportunity hours of experience in upper extremity trauma and treatment and will be required to be recertified every contact Michelle Wall at 701.255.8476 or by email at mwall@eidebailly.com three years.

In addition to these requirements, Vatnsdal-Geck has been an occupational therapist for 24 years and Reep Earns North has more than 10,000 hours experience in direct Dakota Water patient hand therapy.

Wheel Award

Sanford Occupational Therapist Becomes Certified as a Hand Laurie Wentz has been Therapist promoted to the South Region Sales & Business Development Cory Vatnsdal-Geck, occupational therapist, is

Manager at North Dakota Guaranty & Title Co., Bismarck, N.D. Wentz brings more than 14 years of mortgage, business development, and real estate Laurie Wentz experience to NDGT. Wentz joined NDGT in September 2003 as an Escrow Closing Agent. In 2009 she became the Closing Department Manager. In 2011 her focus shifted to employee development and training. She has been extremely involved in planning events, sales calls, charitable donations, business development and promoting community involvement while at NDGT. Wentz has served on the Bismarck Mandan Board of Realtors’ program committee for the past eight years. She is a licensed title insurance agent and a member of the North Dakota Land Title Association.

She has been involved with the Realtor Political Action Committee, the Title Industry Political Action Committee, the North Dakota Builders Political Action Committee and REACT. Wentz is also the 2013 Bismarck Mandan Board or Realtors Affiliate of the Year.

38 | Chamber Connection

HDR’s Dennis Reep receives North Dakota Water Wheel Award. On December 4th, Cornerstone Bank as Full-Time Dennis Reep, PE received the Dennis Reep IT Help Desk at our Bismarck North Dakota Water Wheel South Branch. Don comes to award in recognition of his us with over eight years of IT distinctive leadership and perseverance in motivating experience. Cornerstone Bank and development of the state’s water resources has four locations in Fargo and thereby fostering a better quality of life for our people.

Bismarck and Loan Production Dennis has more than 29 years of experience in water Offices in Dickinson, Minot, and resources engineering including 25 years with the Grand Forks.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). He is currently the Water Resource Program Lead for HDR Engineering in North Dakota.

Haag Joins Cornerstone Bank

Don Haag has joined

Don Haag

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AE2S’ Ansley Receives Patriot Award

AE2S (Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.) congratulates Lisa Ansley, PE, Operations Manager of the Lisa Ansley AE2S office in Bismarck, ND, for receiving the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR).

Ansley was nominated by Eric Lothspeich, AE2S Engineer, who serves as Captain in Company A, 1-112th Aviation, of the North Dakota National Guard.

The ESGR Patriot Award is an Eric Lothspeich avenue for the citizen soldier to say “thanks” to civilian supervisors for accommodating military schedules with flexibility and support. In return, the soldier brings responsibility, maturity, and technical skills to the workplace.

When Captain Lothspeich was tasked with duty at the southwestern border of the United States for 11 months, Ansley assured him that he had the support of AE2S. Ansley stayed in communication with Lothspeich throughout his time on duty and made sure he continued to receive company benefits and newsletters.

BNC Announces New Mandan Location

BNC National Bank is pleased

Jason Arenz

Jayme Renner

Travis Hirsh

Capital Credit Union Earns Award Capital Credit Union was recently presented with

a Small Business Association Directors Award for funding the most SBA loans in the state. This award is presented annually to lenders who show commitment to financing small businesses.

Capital Credit Union approved 19 SBA loans which totaled nearly $900,000 in financing for small businesses.

Kaitlin Moran

Hetletved, RN, Selected

Beth Hetletved, BSN, RN,

director of nursing at CHI St. Alexius Health - Garrison was recently selected as a volunteer Item Reviewer for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Licensure Examination ( NCLEX). NCSBN, Beth Hetletved headquartered in Chicago, is responsible for developing and administered the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN licensing exams.

Hetletved was approved be the North Dakota Board of Nursing and selected by NCSBN to participate on the NCLEX item development panel of subject matter experts held October 22-24, 2014 in Chicago, Ill. She was one of six nurses from across the nation to be selected for this assignment. Hetletved was nominated on the basis of her clinical specialty and nursing expertise.

Hetletved began working at Garrison’s hospital and nursing facility in 2003. She is certified in pediatric advanced life support, adult cardiovascular life support, trauma nurse core course, mass fatalities and TeamSTEPPS.

Betty Kirschmann

to announce the opening of its new branch, located in north Mandan at 2711 Sunset Dr NW. Mandan native, Jason Arenz, will serve as Bank President.

Arenz has worked in the financial services industry for over 18 years and is a board member of the BismarckMandan YMCA, member of the Mandan Economic Opportunity and Prosperity Committee and currently serves as President of the Mandan Park Board.

Jayme Renner, Loan Originator, Travis Hirsh, Personal Banking Officer, and Kaitlin Moran, Loan Portfolio Administrator, have relocated to the new Mandan branch.

The fulltime deposit staff includes Betty Kirschmann, Deposit Operations Supervisor, who has eight years of experience in the financial industry. Kirschmann graduated from Dickinson State University in Business Administration. Jennifer Froehlich and Stacey Roehl are Personal Bankers and will assist with lobby and drive-up clients.

This new 4,000 square-foot branch offers full-service banking solutions for both business and consumer clients including a drive-thru and 24 hour ATM.

Fleck Joins CHI St. Alexius Health

Chelsey Fleck has joined CHI St. Alexius Health’s marketing team. As a marketing specialist, she is primarily responsible for ensuring a positive public Chelsey Fleck image of the Medical Center to associates, the Board of Directors, customers and the community, through publications, public relations, and marketing activities that effectively communicate CHI St. Alexius Health’s services, Mission, Vision and Values.

Fleck, a native of Flasher graduated from Shiloh Christian School in 2007. In 2012, she received her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration with a focus on marketing from Montana State UniversityBillings. Prior to her graduation, Fleck completed a three month marketing internship at Bismarck Event Center.

Bourgois Earns National Certification

JoDell Bourgois, Trust Officer,

Kirkwood Bank & Trust, was recently awarded the Certified Trust & Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation from the Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB), a subsidiary of the American Bankers Association, in JoDell Bourgois Washington, DC. The CTFA designation is awarded to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of wealth management and trust. To qualify for the CTFA certification, individuals must have certain levels of experience and education in the trust profession, pass an exam, and agree to abide by the code of ethics.

Bourgois attended Cannon Trust School offered by Cannon Financial Institute. CFI’s School is a three year school, consisting of 38 hours of classroom instruction each year. Additionally, Bourgois successfully completed the Cannon Trust School with the Honor Graduate designation, Cannon’s highest academic distinction.

Bismarck Aero Center Hires New Flightline Technician

Dan Fitzner comes to Bismarck Aero Center with over seven years of experience and education in Dan Fitzner Jennifer Froehlich Stacey Roehl aviation. His passion for flying led him to the Aviation Branch upon joining the Military where he has gained over 600 flight hours as a crew chief and over 400 flight hours as Wald Named Advisor of the a pilot on a UH-60 Blackhawk. During his service, Fitzner Month completed multiple leadership courses and worked Securian Financial Advisors of ND, Inc. is pleased to as an Aircraft Technician at the Army Aviation Support announce that David Wald is Advisor of the Month for Facility, doing aircraft inspections, parts replacement November. David has been an advisor with Securian and troubleshooting. Currently, Fitzner is working on his since August 2008 and is located at 207 East Front Private Pilot’s License and is still an active member of Avenue, Suite B in Bismarck. the ND Army National Guard.

Chamber Connection | 39

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 Susie Kocourek at 701-223-5660 or email skocourek@bismancc.com.

Big Apple Bagels Essie Wright in their new business located at 408 East Bowen Avenue in Bismarck.

Phone: 751-6312. Member.

Fundamental Furniture Mike and Robert in their new business located at 412 East Bowen Avenue in Bismarck.

Farm Credit Services of Mandan Mike O’Keeffe, staff and directors in their new addition located at 1600 Old Red Trail in Mandan. Phone: 663-6487. Member.

40 | Chamber Connection

Escape on Third Teresa Felch, new owner, and staff located at 424 South 3rd in Bismarck. Phone: 471-7576. Member.

Brown & Saenger LynDee Bowers and staff in their new business (formerly Crescent Printing) located at 206-4th Avenue NW in Mandan.

Phone: 663-5603. Member.

Total Wellness Chiropractic Alicia Vollmers in her new location at 1401 Skyline Blvd. in Bismarck. Phone: 224-9500. Member.

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!

NRG Tech Services Mark Johnson, Board President, and Steve Kelsch, Vice President, in their new location at 1661 Capitol Way in Bismarck.

Phone: 250-9400. Member.

MVP Contracting Michael and Larry Visner, owners of a new home based business. Phone: 715-891-7222. Member.

Horizon Financial Bank John Vollmer, President, and staff in their new business located at 1207 West Divide in Bismarck. Phone: 751-7274. Member.

Momentum Medical Wellness Dr. Kline and staff in their new business located at 310 South 5th Street in Bismarck. Phone: 751-2709. Member.

Chamber Connection | 41

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.

Athena’s Touch 1500 Interchange Ave. Bismarck, ND (701) 354-7474 Beauty and Wellness Distributor. Developing, distribution of skincare, spa and salon and medical products and equipment. Makeup, Microderm, Eyewear.

Big Apple Bagels 408 E. Bowen Ave. Bismarck, ND Essie Wright (701) 751-6312 Our complete menu spans from breakfast to dinner.

We offer deli sandwiches, salads, soups, Freshens® smoothies, My Favorite Muffin® and Brewster’s® specialty coffees. Catering services available.

J’z Fashions 410 E. Bowen Ave. Bismarck, ND Essie Wright (701) 751-6311 Contemporary chic women’s and men’s apparel and accessories.

Dakota Outdoor Advertising 418 E Rosser Ave, Ste #101 Bismarck, ND Alice Meier (701) 590-0992 Dakota Outdoor Advertising offers advertising on digital and static billboards in Bismarck, Mandan, Underwood, Wilton, Minot, Dickinson, Williston, Watford City, Alexander, Sidney and Glendive, MT. Horizon Financial Bank 1207 West Divide Ave. Bismarck, ND John Vollmer (701) 751-7274 Horizon Financial Bank provides a comprehensive suite of banking products and prides itself on being a ND owned and operated community bank since 1905. Its main office is in Munich, ND and has three branches.

The UPS Store North 1515 Burnt Boat Dr. Suite C Bismarck, ND JoDee Hanson (701) 751-6036 We have the knowledge and expertise to handle all of your mailbox, packing, shipping, and professional printing needs and we are passionate about what we do!

Stop by and visit us today.

Come see our new addition at Edgewood Vista Mandan!

Call 701-663-5664 for your personal tour of new 1 and 2 bedroom assisted living apartments.

This is home!

42 | Chamber Connection

www.edgewoodseniorliving.com 2801 39th Avenue SE, Mandan

TV Production • Ad Sales

Midcontinent Business Solutions™ Ad Sales.

Focused. Like me.

“As a caterer, my focus is food. So when it comes to finding new customers, word of mouth works fine. Advertising on Midcontinent cable works wonders.

My Midcontinent Business Solutions™ rep learned about my clients. Then she placed my commercial on big-time networks that people like my customers are watching. I look like a major player, next to national advertisers, on some of the biggest shows. And business has never been better. Like I said, my focus is food, so when I want to talk to new customers, I talk to Midcontinent.”

See our work at midcontinent.biz

1.800.888.1300 | midcontinent.biz

Chamber Connection | 43

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

Upcoming Chamber Events A Night In

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner

2015 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL DINNER Date: 1/8/2015 • Time: 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Location: Bismarck Event Center Hall A & B, Bismarck

LUNCH & LEARN PRESENTED BY SR. THOMAS WELDER Date: 1/13/2015 • Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Gary Tharaldson School of Business, Rm 212 – U-Mary

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: KLJ

Date: 1/22/2015 • Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Location: KLJ - 4585 Coleman St, Bismarck

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BANK OF NORTH DAKOTA

Date: 2/5/2015 • Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Location: Bank of North Dakota - 1200 Memorial Hwy Bismarck

LUNCH & LEARN PRESENTED BY MS. ROXANA SABERI Date: 2/10/2015 • Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Gary Tharaldson School of Business, Rm 212 – U-Mary

JA MONOPOLY TOURNAMENT

Date: 2/21/2015 • Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Location: Sunrise Elementary School - 3800 Nickerson Ave, Bismarck

MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BISMARCK-MANDAN ELKS LODGE

Date: 2/26/2015 • Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Location: Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge - 900 S Washington Street, Bismarck

At Marco, we know how overwhelming technology can feel.

So we do everything we can to match you up with the right technology and keep it running smoothly.

We’ll keep an eye out for solutions and processes that could save you precious time and money. And, we’ll help you avoid the ones that won’t.

We’re big enough to offer you premium quality and selection.

And we’re small enough to give you personalized service grounded in Midwestern values.

Connect with Marco — your trusted technology advisor.

Jason Lantz, Network Specialist

701.222.2222

807 E Century Ave, Bismarck | marconet.com

Marty Presler, Document Solutions Sales Manager