Billings Business Dec. 2013

5 MINUTES WITH

KEVIN WOODS

CTA ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS

December 2013

BRICKS AND MINIFIGS

SPECIAL REPORT: HEALTH CARE TRENDS, FORECASTS & PEOPLE BEHIND THE SCENES

Adult Ed’s Career Advancement programs proving popular

YOUR CAREER

STARTS HERE Billings Business 401 N. Broadway Billings, MT 59101-1242

CONTENTS

december’13

An indispensable business resource On the Cover Anju Bisch prepares to give a medical dummy an injection during a medical assistant class in the Lincoln Center.

Photo By JAMES WOODCOCK

FEATURES

Your career starts here................................................................................................................................................................................. 6 Adult Ed’s Career Advancement programs proving popular

Sweet profits........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Billings distributor becomes industry leader in supplement sales

Global reach.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 At 75 years old CTA is expanding around the world

Cool Blue................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Billings upstart looking to jolt the growing energy drink industry

Growth industry............................................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Health care expected to dominate job growth through rest of the decade

Construction Zone......................................................................................................................................................................................... 29 Lithia Dodge, Lockwood IGA Agri-Best Feeds and SweetPro, Page 12

Columns

Economic Development..........................................................................................................................................................................10 Allison Corbyn - ‘Think Billings’ campaign set to help the Magic City grow

Travel & Leisure.................................................................................................................................................................................................27 Billie Ruff - PreCheck Program makes life easier for frequent fliers

Better Business..................................................................................................................................................................................................28 Erin T. Dodge - Social media span just the latest threat to online users

Sales Moves...........................................................................................................................................................................................................40 Jeffrey Gitomer - Cheapest isn’t always best; learn how to navigate the bidding process billings BUSINESS EVERY MONTH

From the Editor........................................................................................................................................................................................................4

24 Hour Emergency Flood & Fire Restoration Services Commercial & Residential

Flood or Fire, we will restore your property from beginning to end.

Complete Reconstruction Licensed • Bonded • Insured Preferred by Major Insurance Companies.

406-628-0178

—24 hour contact line—

www.alphaomegapros.com

By the numbers......................................................................................................................................................................................................5 The local economy at a glance

Five Minutes with.................................................................................................................................................................................................9 Kevin Woods - Bricks and Minifigs

Chamber News.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 17 John Brewer - We need your help in developing ‘Chamber of the Future’ Page 9 Kevin Woods

Success Stories.................................................................................................................................................................................................41 Business Briefs..................................................................................................................................................................................................42 The Listings............................................................................................................................................................................................................43

2

I December 2013

Billings Business is mailed each month to area business owners, managers and decision makers for $19.95 per year.

To subscribe, please send payment, name, business name, mailing address and phone number to:

Billings Business 401 North Broadway Billings, MT 59101 Billingsbusiness

406-255-7470

Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

3

the editor

M ONTANA WINE LOVERS HAVE REASON

December 2013 • VOLUME 20 • NUMBER 3

TO RAISE THEIR GLASSES IN CELEBRATION

mike gulledge tom howard COPY EDITOR chris jorgensen GENERAL MANAGER allyn hulteng PUBLISHER

EDITOR

Local oenophiles have a few new reasons to raise their glasses. Billings winemaker Clint Peck is putting Montana on the map with wine that has received favorable notice in the national wine press.

Earlier this year, Wine Spectator awarded Peck’s Yellowstone Cellars 2010 Malbec a score of 88 out of 100. The wine has sold out, but Peck says that his 2011 malbec is even better.

Peck started the Billings winery at 1335 Holiday Circle in 2010, using grapes that he trucks in from various vineyards in Washington. The Yellowstone Valley’s climate isn’t ideally suited for growing grapes, so Peck brings in high-quality grapes from Washington.

In a related note, winemakers and wine drinkers got some welcome news earlier this year after the Montana Legislature passed a bill that updates the state’s archaic law regulating mail-order wine sales.

The law, HB402, allows wineries to sell and ship up to 18 9-liter cases of wine per year to an individual for personal use. The new law eliminates a previous requirement in which consumers had to obtain a connoisseur’s license and also pay state taxes on the wine that was delivered to them.

Shauna Helfert, administer of the Montana Liquor Control Division, said the new law is good for consumers, who no longer have to shoulder the administrative

responsibility of obtaining the license.

Rep. Chuck Hunter, D-Helena, sponsor of the bill, also described the new law as welcome news for Montanans who want to buy wine that might not be available locally.

Hunter said the feedback he has received regarding the new law has been widespread and positive.

Peck generally favors the new law. But he wasn’t thrilled about a requirement in which he must report the names and addresses of each of his mail-order customers to the Montana Liquor Control Division.

“When you think about it, what other consumer product is being reported to the government?” Peck said. With that in mind, he plans to let his customers know that he’s required to share that information with the state.

“The bottom line for me is I’m gearing up to have a protocol for shipping wine, and I feel compelled to let the consumers know,” Peck said. “I don’t want anybody to be surprised.”

Officials from the state said the reporting requirements are designed to prevent under-aged people from purchasing wine online.

The law, which took effect Oct. 1, also requires the common carrier to verify a recipient’s age. A person 21 or older must also provide a signature before the wine can be delivered.

SALES

dave worstell ryan brosseau RETAIL SALES MANAGER shelli scott ADVERTISING SALES gail ball ADVERTISING COORDINATOR linsay duty

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR CLASSIFIED MANAGER/ONLINE MANAGER

PRODUCTION

DESIGNER

karen scherting bob tambo

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SUBSCRIPTIONS Billings Business is mailed each month to area business owners, managers and decision makers.

To subscribe for $19.95 per year, please send payment, name, business name, mailing address and phone number to: Billings Business 401 North Broadway Billings, MT 59101 ADVERTISING For retail advertising call Gail Ball 657-1284. For classified advertising, call 657-1212. Advertising deadline for the February 2014 issue is 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 7. You may send material to ads@billingsbusiness.com or FAX to 657-1538.

NEWS If you would like to submit a news tip, story idea, announcement about your business or press release, please e-mail it to: editor@billingsbusiness.com website: www.billingsbusiness.com Information published herein does not reflect the opinion of Billings Business. Contents are the property of Billings Business.

BILLINGS BUSINESS LEADER ADVISORY BOARD Adam Kimmet, president, Cellular Plus; Bill Lucas, US Bank; Greg McCall, McCall Development; Justin Mills, general manager, the NILE and MATE; Nancy Boyer, Boyer and Dimich Associates; Kate Hamlin, Century 21 and Life Launch; Lane Basso, business consultant; Marilyn Floberg, Prudential Floberg Realtors; and Greg McDonald, Wendy’s of Montana.

4

I December 2013

BILLINGSbusiness

By the Numbers

Local and Regional Economic Trends

Unemployment

A healthy pulse

10 8

Montana led the nation with 550,000 acres under cultivation for peas, lentils, chickpeas and other pulse crops in 2012.

6 4 2 0

March

April

May

Montana

June

Source: Montana Department of Labor and Industry

Billings housing starts

National park recreation visitors

40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

372

350

312

300

1,000,000 800,000

400,000

200 150

200,000

100

0

50 May

June

July

August

May 2012 - Oct. 2012

September

October

May 2013- Oct. 2013

2012

Jun.

Jul.

Aug. Sept.

Apr.

Yellowstone National Park

May

Jun.

Jul.

Aug. Sept.

Glacier National Park

Apr. 2012 to Sept. 2012

2013

Ag prices

Apr. 2013 to Sept. 2013

Airport boardings 60,000

Montana Beef Cattle

(per bushel)

(per cwt.)

50,000

$150

$10 8

120

6

90

4

60

2

30

0

0

Jul.

Aug.

Sept.

Oct.

40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 May

Jun.

Jul.

Aug.

Sept.

May. 2012 to Oct. 2012 May. 2013 to Oct. 2013 Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Billingsbusiness

May

Source: National Park Service

Montana winter wheat

Jun.

Apr.

YTD Through Oct. 31

Source: City of Billings

May

U.S.

600,000

250

0

August

Yellowstone County

Source: Montana Department of Agriculture

New single-family home building permits

July

Oct.

April

May

June

July

August

September

Billings

Bozeman

Missoula

Apr. 2012 to Sept. 2012 Apr. 2013 to Sept. 2013

Apr. 2012 to Sept. 2012 Apr. 2013 to Sept. 2013

Apr. 2012 to Sept. 2012 Apr. 2013 to Sept. 2013

Source: Montana Department of Transportation

December 2013

I

5

YOUR CAREER

STARTS HERE Career Advancement programs proving popular

BY TOM HOWARD I N A THIRD - FLOOR CLASSROOM AT THE L INCOLN E DUCATION C ENTER , A NJU B ISCH WRAPPED A BLOOD PRESSURE N ATALIE R EICHENBACH ’ S UPPER ARM , INFLATED THE CUFF WITH A RUBBER BULB AND PLACED THE BELL OF HER STETHOSCOPE OVER THE BRACHIAL ARTERY JUST BELOW R EICHENBACH ’ S ELBOW .

CUFF AROUND

Releasing air from the cuff, Bisch took note of both the systolic and diastolic numbers that comprise the blood pressure reading.

These and other hands-on exercises are all part of the curriculum in the certified medical assistant training program that Bisch and Reichenbach have been taking at the Lincoln Education Center.

During a three-hour evening class, the 10 students answered questions as instructor Brenda Segna delivered a lecture on the endocrine system. The medical assistant program, which takes about one year to complete, is designed to provide skills that the students

6

I December 2013

can put to use in a variety of medical offices once they graduate.

Bisch, 21, said the medical assistant program will allow her to get a job that pays better than most entrylevel jobs available in Billings.

She also plans to use the certification as a stepping stone toward a career.

“I have a passion for the medical field,” Bisch said, mentioning that her mother has a doctorate in nursing.

“I do want to continue with my education. My goal is to become a physician’s assistant, and this has been a great way to work toward that goal.”

Carissa Belless had worked in the office of a national retail store for 14 years but decided that she wanted a change.

“I had heard about the administrative assistant certification program, and I thought I could gain more skills,” Belless said. She hoped to gain experience using Excel, PowerPoint and other office software.

“I was able to list new skills and that helped me immediately,” said Belles, who landed a job with School District 2, where she works in the business office.

Bisch and Belless are among thousands of adults who have improved their employment opportunities by

BILLINGSbusiness

“I have a passion for the medical field. I do want to continue with my education.

My goal is to become a physician’s assistant, and this has been a great way to work toward that goal.”

— Anju Bisch

Photo By BOB ZELLAR Carissa Belless is a secretary in the School District 2 business office.

She improved her job skills by taking courses at Adult Education.

Anju Bisch prepares to give a medical dummy an injection during a medical assistant class in the Lincoln Center.

Photo By JAMES WOODCOCK

BILLINGSbusiness

December 2013

I

7

participating in the Career Advancement programs offered through School District 2’s Adult Education program.

Woodrow Jensen, interim director of adult education for School District 2, said the Career Advancement program got started in 2008. For years, the district’s Adult Basic Education program has helped adults improve their academic skills, complete a GED and perhaps prepare for college.

Jensen said Career Advancement was added to the department’s traditional offerings because employers had expressed a need for providing specific training that could help people earn more and gain access to more rewarding careers.

Jensen retired from the district in 2012 but returned recently on an interim basis.

Reflecting back to 2008, he saw the need for a separate program to provide quick, low-cost and high-quality training.

The programs were designed to emphasize skills that employers need as well as open the door to better opportunities for

8

I December 2013

Photo By JAMES WOODCOCK Instructor Brenda Segna lectures during a medical assistant class in the Lincoln Center.

graduates.

Each course is priced between $400 and $650. Even at those prices, Adult Education makes money on the program, Jensen said.

Workforce development has been a frequent topic of discussion among in the

Billings area in recent months. An unemployment rate of less than 4 percent is generally seen as a sign of economic strength. On the other hand, Yellowstone County’s decision makers have worried whether enough qualified workers are

available to fill hundreds of job openings.

Officials from various agencies have been busy developing a plan that addresses workforce development. Jensen said the Career Advancement program can play a role in the countywide effort.

Five years after Career Advancement was introduced, the programs have proven to be quite popular. The dental assistant program, which is offered each January, is one of the more popular.

“It’s always full,” said Barbara Gustafson, community education coordinator for School District 2. “I tell people to get here early, and there’s always a line out the door when they register.”

Employers like the Career Advancement program because it helps reduce employee turnover and helps limit their training costs. The program is also about seizing opportunity, Gustafson said.

“A lot of people say they didn’t think they had the drive to do something like this,” Gustafson said. “But then they find out they can do it and they’re real pleased.”

Billingsbusiness

Kevin Woods

Growing brick by brick

By TOM HOWARD

Photo By BOB ZELLAR

W hen K evin W oods was thinking about a career change , he decided to harness his longtime fascination with L egos . W oods left a career in information technology and recently opened B ricks & M inifigs , a franchise retail store at 1911 K ing A ve . W., S uite 9.

Bricks & Minifigs (bricksandminifigs.com/ billings) specializes in buying, selling and trading Lego products. Lego, the developer of popular construction toys, has attracted a cult following that bridges generations. Here, Woods discusses how he has put his passion for Lego to work.

tive response and constantly express their hopes that we continue to do well.

Was this move the result of a long-term interest in Legos, or was this a more recent development?

I grew up a huge fan of Lego. While my interQ: How has the business gone so far? est declined during my teenage years and 20s, I A: Our store launch has been fantastic. We began avidly collecting again when Lego licensed have already established a returning customer the Star Wars theme in 1999. I had approximately base, and we still have new customers arriving 150 sets in my personal collection at the time daily. October was a slow month, but NovemI opened the store. The hardest part was the ber is already looking very promising as our transition from being a collector to becoming the first Christmas season approaches. We have owner of Bricks & Minifigs. As used Lego sets been open for a little over two months now, and are the hardest product to acquire that we offer, things continue to progress better than our initial I brought my entire collection into the store and expectations. have since sold 90 percent of the sets. I no longer have a personal collection but am rewarded on a Can you describe the process that led you daily basis with the opportunity to see and build to take the plunge? sets I most likely never would have purchased Admittedly, it was difficult doing research for myself. this kind of venture because no one had attempted such an exclusively Lego store in this region.

What kind of insight have you learned The closest syndicated Lego store is more than about the company?

500 miles away and the closest Bricks & Minifigs The Bricks & Minifigs franchise has existed store is about 900 miles from Billings. We basifor approximately three years. The owner and cally took a huge risk in deciding to move forward co-owner are some of the most amazing people with opening the store and decided to take the I have ever had the pleasure of working with in plunge when we signed our franchise agreement a professional environment. It has truly been a in June. We were confident that even with such blessing. I spent the last 15 years working as an an isolated market we could still be successful. information technologies professional and have We were rewarded with our decision by having had a large learning curve making such a dramatic the best opening month of any franchise that has career change. It has been an amazing experiopened under the Bricks & Minifigs banner. ence, and I am very thankful for all of the support Beyond the sales numbers, our customers they still provide sometimes on a daily basis. The have rewarded us with an overwhelmingly posi- opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream doesn’t

Billingsbusiness

happen very often, and I am making the most of it. I am still making mistakes and am sure I will continue to do so, but the lessons and insights I have gained from those experiences offer nothing but the ability to make Bricks & Minifigs the best store we can be.

How important is Christmas to the store’s success?

This will be the first holiday season we have experienced and my research reflects that it can account for anywhere from 20 to 40 percent of a retailer’s annual sales. It will give us our first real gauge of the success we will be able to achieve. I am very excited for the Christmas season.

Obviously kids love Legos. How many youngsters carry their interest into adulthood?

While the percentage of customers who carry their love of building and collecting Lego from childhood to adulthood isn’t very large, the knowledge base they retain for the value of the toy is incredible. I have had families in the store who have relayed how they have kept their Legos and handed them down through multiple generations.

What are your kids getting for Christmas?

I have two boys who are 2 and 7 years old.

They will definitely be receiving their fair share of Legos. But they also enjoy other things, like gaming systems, train sets, and my youngest never seems to have enough Mickey Mouse toys.

December 2013

I

9

SPONSORED BY THE big sky economic development

‘T hink B illings ’ campaign set to help the M agic C ity grow

All of us have a business relationship that we could leverage to bring about a lead for our community to approach.

Allison Corbyn Allison Corbyn is the Business Recruitment Specialist at Big Sky Economic Development. She can be reached by calling 406-896-8420 or by corbyn@bigskyeda.org.

10

I December 2013

Recruiting new business to Yellowstone County is a dynamic process. Every company has a different set of criteria in which they base their decision on which community to move to — including occupancy costs, quality of life, taxes and even political climate. Workforce availability is top of mind for almost every company.

When working with companies, the saying “patience is a virtue” could not be truer.

Building relationships with company executives and site selectors takes time, as do the projects themselves. A single project may not come to fruition for up to two years, but that doesn’t change the site selector or company’s sense of urgency. Often, the business needed the expansion “yesterday.”

The hurry-up-and-wait nature of the recruitment process has challenged us to look at the much bigger picture. Economists point to a time in the not-so-far-off future where workers will choose where they want to live first, and work second — a reversal of a 50-year status quo. Preparing for this scenario starts now, ensuring that Billings is a “cool” place

to live, work, play and invest — and a place that retains and attracts enough workers to meet business needs.

Just recently, Big Sky Economic Development launched a campaign called Think Billings. The campaign works to accomplish several things.

First, BSED is asking the people of Billings to share what makes them think of our special city — it might be a picture of a favorite landmark or restaurant, a photo that captures the giving spirit of our people or an event that in a snapshot reflects our community’s joie de vivre. We’ll then use these pictures to tell the story of why this is a great place to live — not only to prospective people who may move here, but to companies and site selectors to give them a sense of the community through authentic, genuine messaging.

Think Billings is the message we’ll tell to the person sitting next to us on the plane, our friend who is struggling to find the right job in Seattle, our business partners in Minneapolis, or the tourists we chat with on a Sunday morning at Stella’s.

Second, the campaign will ask our locals to help us make

connections with prospective companies that could be located here in Yellowstone County.

All of us have a business relationship that we could leverage to bring about a lead for our community to approach.

Telling the story of Billings will not only help us attract and retain talented workers, it will attract great paying jobs, companies that value hard, loyal workers, and people who want to be part of our community’s story.

You’ll hear more about our

efforts in upcoming months, but in the meantime, follow us on Facebook at facebook. com/thinkbillings or by posting, tweeting or uploading your photo to Instagram using the hashtag #thinkbillings and encourage others to do the same.

c r e aT i N g M o N Ta N a BuSiNeSS opporTuNiTieS

Business Assistance Big Sky Economic Development is Yellowstone County’s first stop for business assistance. Whether you’re starting, struggling or surging, we have services that can help your business grow. And it starts with just a phone call or visit.

Contact Big Sky Economic Development today!

4 0 6 . 2 5 6 . 6 87 1 222 N. 32nd Street, Billings, MT 59101 www.bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org Billingsbusiness

Billings Clinic ExpressCare Now at Albertsons Our new retail clinics will offer patients quick access in convenient locations to primary care for minor medical issues.

Benefits of ExpressCare include: E-scheduling through your mobile device, online or at the location

Easy parking at convenient locations

Decreased wait time

Simple pricing – service prices range from $25 to $70

Most medical insurances accepted

Opens December 11 Billings West End 3137 Grand Avenue (inside Albertsons) Additional locations are planned to open in Spring and Summer of 2014.

Scan this code with your smartphone to view the app.

Go to www.billingsclinic.com/expresscare for more information.

Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

11

sweet

profits

Billings distributor becomes industry leader in supplement sales

Photo By LARRY MAYER Agri-Best Feeds and SweetPro manufacturers talk about the expansion of their business in Billings. Jordan Thornberg, left, and Bob Thornberg, in the gray jacket, both of SweetPro, talk with, from left, Scott Anderson, Daryl Haidle, Kevin Haidle and Sammy Higgs, all of Agri-Best, at the Agri-Best warehouse in the former Pierce Packing building at 33 N. 15th St.

12

I December 2013

Billingsbusiness

By TOM HOWARD S even years after M ontana livestock producers learned about a feed supplement called S weet P ro N orthern I nternational L ivestock E xposition , the B illings distributor that started the ball rolling is logging double - digit growth and leading the nation in sales . at the

Last year Agri-Best Feeds racked up a whopping 68 percent increase in its Montana sales, matched by a 67 percent increase in Nebraska and 25 percent growth in Wyoming. Despite that impressive track record, company officials aren’t resting on their laurels.

“We’re not there yet,” said Scott Anderson, chief executive officer of Agri-Best Feeds. “We’re not even scratching the surface.”

Anderson said less than 1 percent of the 10 million cattle in the company’s territory are using the supplement. But he sees potential for capturing 20 to 25 percent of the market because the product is so good.

Irv Haidle, Anderson’s father in-law and founder of Agri-Best Feeds, introduced SweetPro at the 2006 NILE show after testing it on his own cattle.

Haidle, a rancher from Fallon, noticed that his cattle consumed about 28 percent less hay when they were offered the supplement. So he decided to become a SweetPro distributor.

He formed a family corporation and hired Anderson and later his son, Daryl. They moved the business to Billings in order to gain access to a larger market and to build a statewide distribution system. SweetPro accounts for the bulk of the company’s sales, but Agri-Best began carrying Redmond Natural Trace Minerals in 2009.

Since 2010 the business has been located at the Kairos Center, 33 N. 15th St., the site of the former Pierce packing plant.

The company suffered a setback when Haidle died in an automobile accident in September of 2011. Despite that loss, the company was able to carry on and grow.

“Irv had a huge impact,” Anderson said. “He had the direction and training in place, and the path was laid, so the transition was fairly smooth.”

SweetPro, based in Walhalla, N.D., uses distiller’s grain, a key byproduct of ethanol production, in its supplement blocks, which are placed as a free-choice supplement for cattle to consume by licking the block.

On average, cattle consume about 1 pound of supplement per head daily.

The added nutrition and a key digestive ingredient included in SweetPro help cattle make more efficient use of grass and hay. Saving on feed costs is an important consideration for producers who are paying in the

Billingsbusiness

Courtesy photo Two Angus cows try a Sweetpro supplement block.

neighborhood of $130 per ton of hay, said Bob Thornberg, president and founder of SweetPro. “One of the biggest inputs for a rancher is feed,” Thornberg said during a recent visit to the Billings company. “If you can improve your feed efficiency, you realize bigger savings and that improves profits.”

Thornberg said Agri-Best Feeds has eclipsed SweetPro’s largest distributors in Texas and Oklahoma.

Ranchers frequently use mineral supplements to help livestock stay healthy and gain weight. Most have molasses as a key ingredient. But SweetPro uses complex carbohydrates that are present in the distiller’s grain.

SweetPro has been in business since 1991. While building a reputation as an innovator, the company se-

cured six patents between 1994 and 2004. One of those innovations is in packaging. The supplement blocks are designed so that they can be moved without using pallets.

Cow-calf operations are the bread and butter for AgriBest Feeds. But Anderson said the supplement is also popular with people who keep horses. The company is also testing the product for use in feedlot operations.

Most ranchers buy SweetPro from a network of retailers that AgriBest Feeds supplies. But some choose to buy directly from the distributor. They may have come to Billings for a medical appointment or to deliver livestock to the auction, and they load up their trailers with SweetPro for the return home, Anderson said.

December 2013

I

13

CTA Architects Engineers The Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center is one of CTA Architects and Engineers’ signature projects. The center opened in 2010.

global

reach At 75 years old, CTA is expanding around the world

14

I December 2013

By TOM HOWARD CTA A rchitects and E ngineers , which celebrated its 75 th birthday this year , is gaining a national reputation , and its influence is spreading across the globe .

Billingsbusiness

The Billings-based firm now employs around 400 people in 17 offices in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Washington, Colorado, Texas, Louisiana, and most recently an office in Vancouver, B.C. “We’ve had jobs off and on in Canada, and we saw an opportunity there,” said Mike Tuss, director of design for CTA. Because Canada’s laws governing corporations are different, the firm’s Canadian office is known as Cushing Terrell, a reference to company founders Ralph Cushing and Everett Terrell. The firm’s offices in the Northwest also go by Cushing Terrell, because another firm had previously used the CTA name.

Many local residents are familiar with the firm’s work in Billings and surrounding communities. But CTA’s list of international clients includes Dell Computers, Target and Whole Foods.

CTA’s growing presence across the globe is a reflection of the international nature of business, said Scott Wilson, CTA’s president.

“Increasingly, it’s becoming one world economy,” Wilson said.

Tuss has worked for CTA long enough to remember the firm’s 50th anniversary. In those days, the firm focused its resources mostly in Montana.

“When you compare that to what we’re doing today, it seems like we always have somebody traveling all over the country,” Tuss said.

Most of CTA’s work in Canada is taking place in Alberta and Saskatchewan, where culture and industry have many similarities to Montana, Wilson said.

CTA has been working on developing a project for Dell in Panama, with involvement from employees in Boston, Billings, Boise and Bozeman. During an earlier era, developing a similar project would have involved booking numerous flights and visiting the site in person. These days, CTA Billingsbusiness

CTA Architects Engineers CTA did this project in San Jose, Calif., for Dell Computers.

employees, working in remote offices, easily keep in touch with conference calls and other forms of electronic communication, Wilson said.

While working on a project in India for Dell, CTA design architect Joel Anderson found himself participating in 4 a.m. conference calls with clients to accommodate the 12-hour time difference between Montana and India. Anderson did make a memorable trip to India as the project moved forward.

Although national and international clients account for much of CTA’s work, the company hasn’t forgotten its Montana roots.

“We invest a lot of volunteer time in our communities. That’s really important to us,” Tuss said.

In an increasingly interconnected world, many firms have chosen to outsource drafting and other tasks to low-wage countries to save money. CTA has chosen not to do that, Tuss said.

The firm’s history can be traced to a fly fishing trip on the Boulder River in 1938.

During that trip, Cushing, a structural engineer, and architect Terrell decided to join forces and work together in Billings.

Such an alliance — architects and engineers working under the same roof — was unusual for the era.

Through the ensuing seven decades, CTA expanded and diversified, adding specialists as building designs and engineering systems became more sophisticated.

CTA has shown up on a number of national lists as it has grown over the years.

It ranked No. 25 nationally on the list of architectural and engineering firms from Building Design and Construction magazine, and No. 75 among the top architectural firms compiled by Architectural Record. CTA also ranked No. 233 among the top 500 design firms, compiled by Engineering News Record. That list includes large, multinational engineering companies, Tuss said.

December 2013

I

15

STRATEGIES for success

T raining , data backup can foil cyber terrorists Computer security is one area where you need to spend money.

Joe Michels Joe Michels, PhD, P.E., C.P.I., is principal of Solomon Bruce Consulting LLC. Contact him at 406-672-6387 or at www.solomonbruce.com.

SEND A LITTLE CHRISTMAS

Employee education and training are key essential elements to precluding problems in your business. During a recent cyber terrorism breakfast in Texas, a panel of computer and telecommunications experts addressed the challenges that many small business owners face with cyber terrorism.

Interestingly, the experts said that sometimes innocent usage of your computer network by your employees can cause problems never before thought possible. Here is an example: An employee uses your network and business computer to connect to a personal social media website. While the employee is reviewing the website, a hacker obtains access to your corporate network.

How? Well, your business

computer is connected to a social media website, allowing the hacker to get to your network and then start to explore and see what files and accounts can be exploited.

If this happens at your company, positive, not negative, punitive motivation solves many of these challenges, the experts said. If this were to happen at your company, educating the employees on what has happened, how it happened and why they should not be using company equipment to check personal accounts goes a lot further than initiating immediate disciplinary action on the employee for failing to follow the rules.

Law offices are another highly vulnerable target for computer hackers. Law offices

Montana Evergreen Wreath Plus $69.95

Montana Evergreen Centerpiece $44.95

have files regarding trial matters, bank accounts and other highly confidential material that can be exploited for significant monetary value. This is one area where law firms should use professional service providers to install and continually check their systems to ensure that those systems are safe from hackers and outside cyber penetration.

With the increased use of computers, tablets and smart phones, the demand for telecommunications bandwidth is rising by 40 percent every year.

More bandwidth equals more business growth. However, this also means that you, the business owner, need to more carefully manage your computer system.

Frequent and periodic data

Montana Evergreen Wreath $39.95

backup is another area that will help if your business experiences a cyber-terrorism attack.

We recommend that all data be backed up daily, if not weekly, if not monthly. This is an area where “more is better.”

We worked with an entity that failed to back up their accounting data and lost about $45,000 in eight months.

Although the answer given by the bookkeeper was the “computer got fried,” our consultants suspected that the entity was the victim of embezzlement by the bookkeeper. Sadly, the time to reconstruct the records was significantly more expensive than the $45,000 which was lost. Data backup is another form of good internal financial controls.

If you decide to use a cloud

Amaryllis Kit $44.99

computing service, perform substantial due diligence before you engage their services. The experts at the cyber terrorism breakfast told a story that will curl your hair. A company elected to use an outsourced cloud computing service to process their data. All was fine until the system crashed one day about four months into the engagement. The cloud computing company never performed any backup, so all of the firm’s data was lost and destroyed.

Computer security is one area where you need to spend money. Saving money and not paying attention to the outside environment in the cyber arena will ensure that you will lose money when your system is hacked.

Paperwhite Kit $34.99

FREE SHIPPING AND DELIVERY to 48 states on orders of 10 or more of these items SAVINGS OF AT LEAST $129.50 FEEL FREE TO MIX AND MATCH

Snack Basket $59.95

Pear & Apple Snack Basket $39.95

Pear Basket $34.95

Apple & Caramel Basket $29.95(5)/$24.95(3)

ORDER 24 HOURS 800-755-7576 AND GAINANS.COM 16

I December 2013

Billingsbusiness

Upcoming Chamber/ CVB Functions More details and RSVP: www. billingschamber.com or call 245-4111

SPONSORED BY THE BILLINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND CVB

December Business After Hours Ag Appreciation Banquet 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 11 Historic Northern Hotel 19 N. Broadway

W E NEED YOUR HELP IN DEVELOPING ‘C HAMBER OF THE F UTURE ’ Billings and your Chamber of Commerce are very well positioned.

Therefore, it’s fair to ask: “If it ain’t broke, why fix it?”

John Brewer John Brewer, CAE, is president of the Billings Chamber of Commerce/ Convention and Visitors Bureau.

BILLINGSbusiness

As Benjamin Franklin once said, “When you are done changing, you’re done.” Change should be embraced, and as a community we can lead the change we want to see.

Billings is in great shape, our economy is strong and poised for incredible growth. There’s a reason that Kiplinger, Fortune Small Business and Family Fun magazines have ranked Billings as one of the the best communities to start a business and to raise a family. We are a great community.

Further, the Billings Chamber is in great shape.

We are in the top 1 percent of all U.S. Chambers with our 5-Star Accreditation; we have never been more fiscally sound; we have a record number of members; and our membership satisfaction rating has never been higher. Billings and your Chamber of Commerce are very well positioned. Therefore, it’s fair to ask: “If it ain’t broke, why fix it?”

We are a growing community with increasing needs and growing pains that need to be proactively addressed.

And your Chamber wants to continue to be a relevant organization that leads our business community and quality of life initiatives. When things are strong is the right time to start questioning everything and looking for opportunities — and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

The Billings Chamber/CVB

recently launched a campaign called “The Billings Chamber of the Future: Defining Tomorrow.” This is a strategic realignment initiative to answer the question: Why do we exist?

We invite you to join us on a journey of reinvention as we help businesses understand tomorrow while the chamber navigates opportunities to better serve our membership and our community.

The core of this initiative is discovery. What is the future of your business? Remaining relevant to your customers in the rapidly changing terrain is made easier by aligning with partners who have a passion for your success. The Billings Chamber/CVB is no different: striving to meet your needs while remaining an integral and relevant tool for your future growth. Our aim this year is to examine the changing business environment and our regional economy. With your help, we will adapt to become a Chamber/CVB that serves your needs in an ever-changing market, while providing the programs, community leadership and great service you’ve come to expect.

Thus, we look to each of you: Share your ideas, your thoughts and your questions about our community. What ideas do you have to improve Billings? How do you see our Community of the Future? We want to put your ideas into ac-

tion. Share ideas on education, tourism, workforce, entertainment, energy development … or whatever is on your mind.

Now is the time to focus on intentional growth and to put all our heads together to explore avenues that need our attention and focus.

Sharing your ideas is simple: Just log on to ChamberListens. com and start sharing.

Our goal is to gather 1,000 creative ideas to lead us into the

January Business After Hours

6-10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17 Montana Convention Center at the Holiday Inn Live music w/ Baxter Black

5-7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 8 The Red Door 3875 Grand Ave.

future. Help us shape the future of Billings and business so we can become even better than we are today.

Over the next year we will analyze these ideas and work with community leaders to determine which subjects should rise to the top.

We’re also staging discussion groups within the business community, engaging a variety of businesses and demographics to canvass a wide variety

of perspectives. Ultimately, this exploration will result in a realignment of the Chamber/ CVB and our efforts in the business community as well as our impact on the community.

We’re encouraged with the progress already in motion and eager to continue the momentum and inspire positive change in Billings.

Let’s work together to keep Billings moving in the right direction.

BillingsChamber.com

Shop Local at

MONTANA’S TRAILHEAD This Holiday Season, and always, support small business and our local economy.

Find a list of Chamber member businesses to shop with at BillingsChamber.com.

December 2013

I

17

CoolBLUE

Billings upstart looking to jolt the growing energy drink industry

BY TOM HOWARD

D AVID H OBBS WAS CONVINCED HE HAD A WINNER WHEN HE LOOKED

AROUND THE ROOM AT A MEETING OF THE

N ATIONAL B EER W HOLESALERS

A SSOCIATION AND NOTICED THAT EVERYBODY WAS DRINKING THE BEVERAGE HE BROUGHT .

It’s called Cool Blue, an upstart energy drink with Montana roots that comes in a clear, one-of-a-kind plastic can.

Hobbs, president of Billings-based EEG Inc., is trying to carve out territory in the supercharged, multibilliondollar energy drink segment.

He is promoting Cool Blue as the first energy drink for adults. The market has long been dominated by Red Bull, which has racked up $3.4 billion in sales in 2013 and commands about 43 percent of the market.

Red Bull has a multimillion-dollar marketing budget and spends a fair amount of that sponsoring extreme sports. Monster is second, with $3.1 billion in sales and 39 percent market share.

Hobbs doesn’t have Red Bull’s vast marketing war chest. But he has worked tirelessly to get his product out to consumers by visiting trade shows and through faceto-face sales calls. He was excited when Intermountain Distributing Inc. of Billings recently agreed to carry Cool Blue.

Because the product is so new, sales information hasn’t been readily available. But the initial response from independent retailers in the Billings area has been encouraging, said Dan Gonzales, sales execution coordinator for Intermountain Distributing.

18

I December 2013

Photo By LARRY MAYER David Hobbs hopes to carve out territory in the popular energy drink market with Cool Blue.

“Our gentleman who works with Town Pump said they’re going to carry it,” Gonzales said. Getting picked up by corporate-owned stores generally takes longer, but Intermountain Distributing is working on that angle, Gonzales said.

Energy drinks tend to be popular with a younger, mostly male clientele — a group that hasn’t formed a lot of brand loyalty.

“They’re trying to decide what their brand is going to be, so something has to stand out to them,” Gonzales said.

To successfully sell a product in a grocery store or a convenience store, a manufacturer must do battle against a variety of competitors and fight for shelf space.

Hobbs said Cool Blue will likely sell for around $2 per can, about the same price as other energy drinks.

The beverage’s taste, color and packaging differentiate

BILLINGSbusiness

SPECIAL REPORT: HEALTH CARE TRENDS, FORECASTS & PEOPLE BEHIND THE SCENES

Learning consultant Shelly Hayes addresses new employees at Billings Clinic.

Health care is expected to be Montana’s fastest-growing industry for new jobs through the end of the decade.

Photo By LARRY MAYER

20

I December 2013

Growth

industry BILLINGSbusiness

HEALTH CARE BY THE NUMBERS SPONSORED BY

Health care expected to dominate new jobs through rest of the decade

BY TOM HOWARD M ONTANA ’ S HEALTH CARE INDUSTRY WILL CONTINUE TO DRIVE EMPLOYMENT THROUGH THE END OF THE DECADE , WITH UP TO 15,000 NEW JOBS ADDED STATEWIDE BETWEEN 2010 AND 2020.

406-247-3200 - www.riverstonehealth.org The projected 25 percent increase in the number sanitation reduced threats from those diseases. But as of health care jobs — from 62,548 in 2010 to 78,185 in people lived longer, new maladies such as heart disease 2020 — was one highlight of a recent presentation by and stroke cropped up. Thanks to new treatments develLarry Swanson, director of the O’Connor Center for the oped over decades, doctors have more tools to treat heart Rocky Mountain West in Missoula. Swanson spoke at the disease. But now the focus has shifted to other types of annual meeting of the Billings Chamber of Commerce diseases.

Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Barker said St. Vincent purchased an interest in the Adding 15,000 heath-related jobs seems like Frontier Cancer Center about a year ago because a tall order. But when one considers that the inresearch showed that additional cancer treatdustry experienced a similar growth rate between ment would become necessary.

2000 and 2010, the projection doesn’t seem too “This is an area where more intensive, more far fetched, health professionals say. collaborative care is needed, and it’s going to It’s well established that health care is a major grow,” Barker said. “It’s probably not surpriscontributor to Yellowstone County’s economy. ing, but we look to other services that tend to be Jason Barker The industry accounted for about $728 million associated with the aging population. We expect in labor earnings during 2011, and that figure is to see fairly significant growth in the need for expected to grow as expenditures on health care increase. orthopedic services,” such as joint replacement.”

Montana’s aging population may be the biggest conBarbara Schneeman, vice president of communicatributor to the increase in future medical expenditures. tions for RiverStone Health, said the public health agency By 2030, more than 30 percent of Montana’s population will continue to emphasize disease prevention. will be older than 60, an increase of 43 percent from 2012, “We’re trying to turn health care into a well-care according to estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. versus a sick-care system,” Schneeman said. “So the emOlder people use health care more frequently than phasis is on the primary care. That means we’re looking the young, and they often have chronic conditions that at primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, physician require more extensive treatment. assistants and behavior health specialists, all people who Meanwhile, the industry is undergoing a fundamen- can manage in a team environment.” tal transformation with emphasis on wellness and early Dr. Virginia Mohl, family medicine physician and intervention. medical director for physician recruitment and profes“One area of change is where we see traditional health sional education at Billings Clinic, said one reason the care providers be more proactive about identifying medical industry is growing is that many parts of the people who are at risk of developing chronic conditions. state remain underserved for medical services.

We work with them to prevent that from happening,” said “Part of our mission is to look at how we can improve Jason Barker, president and chief executive of St. Vincent the health of our communities. We partner with other Healthcare. organizations across the state to do that, and there’s a gap A century ago, infectious diseases such as typhoid and to what we know to be best practices,” Mohl said. polio claimed thousands of lives. Vaccines and improved In an earlier era, a physician in private practice often

BILLINGSbusiness

Jobs in health care on the rise Twenty-six of the 50 fastest-growing occupations are in health-related fields, according to a new study from CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialists. Here are some fast-growing occupations and the projected number of openings nationwide: Personal care aides 273,898 Home health aides 200,067 EMTs and paramedics 30,234 Dental hygienists 22,576 Health care social workers 17,721 Mental health counselors 15,786

Source: CareerBuilder, Economic Modeling Specialists.

December 2013

I

21

SPECIAL REPORT: HEALTH CARE TRENDS, FORECASTS & PEOPLE BEHIND THE SCENES

worked at all hours and his practice might have included delivering babies and taking out a patient’s gallbladder.

“Now medicine is a team sport,” Mohl said. For example, if a patient has an abnormal kidney test, that information is shared with a variety of professionals who work together.

“Is there something wrong with their kidney or could it be other parts of the body?”

Mohl said. “You actually provide better care if you have a team.”

The new federal heath care law aims to provide insurance coverage to many people who lacked it. As a result, the nation could face a shortage of up to 90,000 physicians — both general practitioners and specialists — by the end of the decade, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Billings Clinic has started a first-of-itskind internal medicine residency program in an effort to address a shortage of primary-care physicians. The residency program is expected to produce about six new doctors per year.

The evolving health care system is also

“We’re trying to turn health care into a well-care versus a sick-care system. ... That means we’re looking at primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and behavior health specialists, all people who can manage in a team environment.”

are also in demand.

As technology continues to play a larger role in health care, there’s growing demand for analysts and technology workers, said Karla Stauffer, executive director of people resources for Billings Clinic.

“Some areas people don’t often think about in terms of health care include our analysts and information systems technical support,” Stauffer said. “As we become more automated and utilize more computer systems, including electronic medical records, we need people to — Barbara Schneeman help us manage those systems, to troubleshoot vice president of communications for RiverStone Health and be the experts in that area.”

Analysts play an important role in the system by helping to managers to retrieve and increasing demand for physician’s assistants, trends in heath care to be held in Billings next interpret information as it pertains to patient population or how the organization is perMay. nurse practitioners and other so-called midBillings Clinic’s physician recruiting efforts forming, Stauffer said. level providers. They work as part of a team There’s also continued need for managehave gone well. “We have hired a boatload of of professionals, and they aren’t designed to physicians this year,” Mohl said. “We’re fortu- ment positions, such as nurse managers replace physicians, Mohl said. to other managers, and there’s consistent nate that we have one of the lowest turnover Health care will continue to be a topic demand for medical assistants and certified rates for physicians in the country.” of conversation in 2014. Big Sky Economic nursing assistants, Stauffer said.

Hospital officials said other professionals Development is putting together a seminar on

Get to know the bank that The kind of personal service you just don’t get anywhere else

At Rocky Mountain Bank we believe when a community bank gets to know you, great things happen. Like quick and easy loan approvals, and products and services that make banking more enjoyable. Our wide variety of accounts and loans are backed by experienced, knowledgeable professionals ready to help with all of your business and personal banking needs. So come on in or log on to www.RMBank.com and get to know the bank that gets to know you.

Great Things Happen!™ www.RMBank.com | 406.655.2800 Rocky Mountain Bank a subsidiary of Heartland Financial, USA, Inc.“A Forbes Best Bank 2013.” From Forbes.com December 18, 2012 © 2012 Forbes. All rights reserved. Used by permission and protected by the Copyright Laws of the United States. The printing, copying, redistribution, or retransmission of this Content without express written permission is prohibited.

SHIRLEEN FELLER | Private Banker | SHARON CLARKE | Treasury Management

22

I December 2013

| Billings Downtown

Billingsbusiness

If your business needs a forklift, you need a loan from US. U.S. Bank works hard to tailor the right solutions for your business. With the help of a trusted U.S. Bank Business Banking specialist, you can manage your cash flow, payments, and loans for future growth. Straight business talk that speaks to your business, so more business owners like you can get what they need to move forward.

RATES AS LOW AS

2.99

%

APR*

QUICK LOAN

Call Megan Stovall Business Banking 406.657.8048

branch

usbank.com/smallbusiness

*Applications subject to credit approval. The 2.99% rate applies to new or used vehicles & equipment loans up to 80% LTV and terms up to 36 months for credit qualified applicants. Disclosed rate reflects 0.50% discount based on automatic monthly payments from a U.S. Bank Business Checking account. Standard fees apply. Advertised rate is as of October 1, 2013 and subject to change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Deposit products offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2013 U.S. Bank

Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

23

best

call the experts callyourthe marketplace for local professionals.

AM

Commercial C eaning Service References Available Combined Experience over 20 years

AdvAnced employment ServiceS

Commercial/Office Complete Floor Care Construction Clean Up Window Cleaning Move-In/Move-Out Parking Lot Clean Up

2115 Broadwater Billings, Mt 59102 652-8808 locally owned & operated www.advanced-employment.com

do you need an employee for a day or forever?

• We cover all Workers Compensation, Payroll plus Payroll taxes and Unemployment • We work with all types of companies including roofing

406-697-3379

Family Owned and Operated Licensed, Bonded & Insured Member of Billings Chamber of Commerce

call for a free estimate

Not Just Forms Anymore!

SinCe 1997

We CleAn for You

ER 30 YEAR R OV S! FO

259-5432

www.eagle-printing.com 4148 First Avenue South • Billings

•Locally Owned & Operated • • Business & Laser Forms • • Commercial Printing • • Promotional Products • • Laser Checks • • Spiral Binding • Check Out Our New Website

Is Your House Making You Sick?

√ Air & Dryer Ducts √ Permanent Electrostatic Air Filters √ Drapery

√ √ √ √

Carpets Upholstery Tile & Grout Sanitizing

-Since 1963

MondAY - tueSdAY

406-248-3866

residential Commercial bonded insured regular one time Move outs

SpeCiAl!

3 hrs for $75 “billings only”

Maid Service

All SupplieS provided Gift CertifiCAteS AvAilAble www.purple-cactus.com

Q360 Health

The Body Achieves What The Mind Believes • • • •

PERSONAL TRAINING • HEALTH COACHING

Creative, Fun & Result Oriented Programs Setting Realistic, Safe & Attainable Goals Personal & Small Group Training Have The Courage To Change. Call Today!!

Suzie Eades,

NSCA-CPT, ACE-HC Offices: 777 15th St. West Billings Athletic Club

252-6952 www.steristeam.com

406-208-1167

suzie@Q360health.com www.Q360health.com

Over 18 years of experience developing tailored physical activity plans and providing science based nutritional education

FOR THOSE WITH THE COURAGE TO CHANGE

Celebrating More Than 55 Years of Service Free Local Delivery, Exceptional Customer Service, Qualified Service Techs

• Office Supplies • Office Furniture • Computers & Printers • Digital Dictation

• Shredders • Copiers & Fax Machines • Time Systems • FP Mailing Machines

514 North 32nd Street • 245-3029 • Westernoffice.net Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

25

best

call the experts callyourthe marketplace for local professionals.

KEN HElgESoN

BURNS INSURANCE business insurance

work comp insurance

auto insurance

Branch Manager/ Agent

“Your Source For Warmth”

life insurance

711 North 27th Street - Billings, MT 59101 Office: (406) 256-5838 E-mail: kenh@burnsia.com - www.burnsia.com The Geering Company has been selling only the finest quality wood, coal, gas & pellet stoves & fireplaces since 1975.

Janitorial Services & Carpet Cleaning At Its BesT!

homeowners insurance

We Also CleAn: Tile – GrouT – upholsTery residenTiAl & CommerCiAl sTATe of The ArT equipmenT! peT & odor ConTrol!

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • Satisfaction Guaranteed

Family Owned for Over 25 Years! www.gdrjanitorial.com

406-259-3112

Billings’ 1st Choice for Over 26 Years!

Home & Business Re-Keying

Ask About Our WINTER CLEARANCE SPECIALS

We are known for helping you reduce your heating costs w/alternative heating ideas. We offer quality brand names, professional installation & our entire staff is friendly & knowledgeable, not because it’s their job, but because it is the way we choose to do business.

We invite you to visit us before you make a buying decision... you’ll notice & appreciate the difference!

Dead Bolt Install Auto & Home Lockouts • Safe Work Master Key Systems

656-4111

We Guarantee Our WOrk!

www.geeringco.com • 3823 Montana Ave., Billings, MT • (406) 252-2068

Same Day Appointments...

Same Day Results • Diagnostic Ultrasounds for Men, Women & Kids • 3D/4D Ultrasounds for Pregnancy • Family Friendly Atmosphere • Referrals Accepted from all Providers • Licensed Physicians Interpret All Ultrasounds 1216 16th Street West Alpine Village Suite #21 Billings, MT 59102

ients New Pat ! e Welcom

LUMBER CO.

roofing • siding • windows • doors

406-969-4340

PicturePerfectUltrasound.com IHS, Insurance, Medicare, Medicaid & Self Pay Accepted

LocaLLy owned • deLiveRy avaiLabLe • M-F 7-5:30

www.zentzlumberbillings.com

2775 Roundup Rd. • 252-4810

This could be your Place your business card here

and get noticed!

26

I December 2013

business

Call Gail Ball: 406.657.1284

and be in the next issue of Billings Business Billingsbusiness

TRAVEL &leisure

P re C heck P rogram makes life easier for frequent fliers

Starting later this year, U.S. citizens will be able to apply for PreCheck online and visit an enrollment site to provide identification and fingerprints.

Billie Ruff Billie Ruff is owner of Travel Cafe.

Reach her at travelcafeonline.com.

Billingsbusiness

When we survey our travelers, the issues that cause stress include flight delays and cancellations and long security lines.

While there is not much we can do about flight delays and cancellations other than reaccommodate our stranded passengers, there is some good news regarding long security lines.

The Transportation Security Administration PreCheck Program allows select frequent flyers of participating airlines and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler programs who are flying on participating airlines to receive expedited screening benefits. Eligible participants use dedicated screening lanes for screening benefits which include leaving on shoes, light outerwear and belts, as well as leaving laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags.

Since 2011, TSA has enrolled more than 13 million PreCheck passengers. The goal is to process 25 percent of individual travelers through expedited screening by the end of the year. That equates to approximately 1.8 million travelers per day. Starting later this year, U.S. citizens will be able to apply for PreCheck online and visit an enrollment site to provide identification and fingerprints.

TSA will start the program at two sites — Washington Dulles International Airport and Indianapolis International Airport — with plans to expand nationwide.

The PreCheck application requires a background check, fingerprints and an anticipated enrollment fee of $85 for a fiveyear membership.

The application will be a two-step process:

n Fill out an online application. n Verify identity and provide fingerprints at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center.

Applicants may pay the enrollment fee online, or at an enrollment center. There is a five-year term of eligibility, after which members re-apply. TSA expects the vetting process to take two to three weeks. A U.S. passport is not required to enroll.

Applicants receive a confirmation letter via U.S. mail.

Approved applicants are issued a ‘Known Traveler Number’ to be used when booking travel.

Passengers enter their Known Traveler Number in the ‘Known Traveler Field’ when booking their travel reservations.

Passengers may also enter their number to their frequent flyer airline profiles, where it is stored for future reservations.

Current TSA PreCheck participants, including those eligible via a CBP Trusted Traveler Program such as Global Entry, will continue to receive TSA PreCheck eligibility. Participants who opted in through their airline frequent flyer program may want to consider applying for TSA PreCheck, as they are more likely to be selected for TSA PreCheck expedited screening more often if they are vetted via the TSA PreCheck application process. Enrollment locations, contact information and hours of operation will be available this fall.

TSA PreCheck is available at 40 airports nationwide and for eligible passengers on the following airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America.

Thank You

For your Business!

May you have a peaceful and prosperous 2014 from your friends at stockman Bank.

King Ave 655-2700 Downtown 655-2400

Hilltop & Main 896-4800 14th & Grand 371-8100

Shiloh & Grand 655-3900 Worden 967-3612

www.stockmanbank.com © 2013 Stockman Bank

Member FDIC

December 2013

I

27

BETTER business

S ocial media spam just the latest threat to online users

Social media spam is different in how it reaches its targets.

Due to the nature of social networks, social spam is a one-to-many threat.

Erin T. Dodge Erin T. Dodge, is an editor for the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Washington, Northern Idaho and Montana in Spokane. Contact the bureau at spokane.bbb.org.

28

I December 2013

Spam on social media networks has risen 355 percent in just the first six months of 2013, according to a recent Nexgate research report. The greatest motivation for spammers is financial gain. With social spam, they want to drive online traffic to a website where advertisers pay them for the number of visitors or to increase a web page’s search ranking, also known as spamdexing, or they want to phish users’ personal information for profit.

Spammers have been trying to exploit unsuspecting people for as long as online technologies have existed. We are all familiar with email spam. It is a one-to-one threat, meaning that the spam sent to you is seen only by you. You can control the email message by deleting it or interacting with it. Of course, email spammers usually send these one-to-one threats to many people.

Social media spam is different in how it reaches its targets. Due to the nature of social networks, social spam is a one-to-many threat. A single post, link or comment has the potential to reach everyone with access to the account. The more public the account, the greater the reach and threat will be. And since businesses usually want their marketing efforts, even when targeted, to be as public as possible, this can become an ongoing problem for any business.

Social spam can hijack your audience, your message or promotions and the return on your investment in social media marketing. Once spammers have your customer’s attention, they can fraudulently collect user information while posing as your company. This hurts your customers in very real ways. And it mars your reputation.

Comment spam is also a very common occurrence.

When your good content is overrun by spammy comments, it tarnishes the user’s experience with your business or brand. Overall decrease in user engagement is another effect of

the report.

So how can your business deal with the realities of social spam?

You can choose to not engage in social media marketing.

For small or local businesses that wouldn’t see much gain from the effort, this is a viable choice. The less beneficial and possibly more damaging choice would be to engage in social media marketing and do nothing about the spam.

If social media marketing has been identified as a need for your business, then monitoring social networks is important.

Monitoring can be done by your staff or outsourced to a company that provides manual or automatic monitoring. The effort will likely outweigh the cost and contribute to higher comment spam. Overwhelmed or malware. Twenty percent returns on the investment. with the spam surrounding your of these are found on brandWhenever we use techcontent, users will be less likely owned accounts. nology, spammers will find a to post comments and engage n Facebook has four times way to exploit it. This creates with your other content. Much the phishing attacks and pera dichotomy. The wonderful like an obnoxious party crasher, sonally identifiable information aspects of technology, including comment spam is never a welthan other social networks. greater reach and brand awarecome addition to the mix. n YouTube has five times ness, are coupled with the need The research from the Nex- more risky content — that con- for more diligence in protecting gate report shared the following taining profanity, threats, hate your business, your brand and statistics: speech or insults — than other your customers. n The amount of social social networks.

If you have questions about media spam is rising faster than Nexgate offers an autohow your business can be good content. mated social spam monitoring safe and secure online, visit n 15 percent of all social and removal service, so their the Better Business Bureau at media spam contains a link to report does provide supporting www.bbb.org and the Stay Safe adult content, pornography or evidence for their services. Even Online website from the Namalware. taking that into account, my tional Cyber Security Alliance n Five percent of all social personal experience with social at www.staysafeonline.org/ media apps are spam-focused media spam mirrors the spirit of business-safe-online.

Billingsbusiness

special advertising section

LOCKWOOD IGA IS A

Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

29

special advertising section

Lithia Dodge Service Center

‘Assured service,’ quAlity cAre And convenience hAllmArk new express lube center.

By Brittany Cremer • Photos By Larry Mayer

Running the boys to football practice.

Shuffling Susie to dance class.

Eleven trips to Miles City to visit grandma.

Your car is tuckered out.

Before the “check engine soon” light comes on, hinting at your vehicle’s beleaguered state, consider taking it in to Lithia Dodge’ new-and-improved Express Service Center. It’s like a spa day for your car.

With three service lanes available and no appointment ever necessary, their technicians will have you in and out before you can say, “I think she’s a quart low.””

Above:LoyalcustomerstoLithiashouldtakenotethattheentrancetothenewLithiaServiceCenterisnowonthesouthsideofthe buildingfacingKingAvenue.Left: “Pullupandhonk” attheentranceofLithia’snewExpressLubeCenter,andaservicepersonwill beoutquicklytotakecareofyou.

30

I December 2013

Billingsbusiness

special advertising section

Above:ThecustomerwaitingareaisgreatlyexpandedfromthepreviousspaceandfeaturesampleseatingandaflatscreenTV.

Service with a smile

Dave Principe lives life in the fast lane.

As service manager for Lithia Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Billings, Principe oversaw the transformation of the previous service center to the businesses’ state-of-the-art Express Lane drivethru.

“The area serves “The area serves a dual purpose,” Principe said. a dual purpose, “Customers can pull into one of three stations for a cusTomers can speedy oil change, or the vehicle is tagged and moved pull inTo one of Three if it requires more extensive service work.” sTaTions for a As business demand began to grow, the team speedy oil change, at Lithia needed to expand the service area to or The vehicle accommodate. The solution: expanding into the space next door that was previously a kitchen cabinet is Tagged and store. The transformation also included expansions of moved if iT Lithia’s parts department, showroom, business office requires more and waiting area. exTensive The dealership’s previous service area is now fully service work.” dedicated to repair work.

“The challenge was meshing all these areas together —dave principe service manager, into one cohesive design,” Principe said. liThia dodge General contractor Dick Anderson Construction went to work.

Melding old and new

In early February, builders began demolishing portions of the pre-existing showroom and break area, creating a conduit between Billingsbusiness

Congratulations lithia DoDge on your new serviCe Center

We are proud to have been chosen as your general contractor Dick Anderson Construction

406-443-3225

December 2013

I

31

the new lube center and showroom. The space between, now a comfortable waiting area, is outfitted with a flat screen TV, smartly-appointed coffee nook and enclosed kids’ play area.

The expansion also allowed for additional vehicles to be put on display and showcased on the dealership’s main floor.

“The overall layout just flows better now,” Principe said.

Oversized pelican-grey tile and Lithia’s signature cerulean blue further embellish the crisp, clean space. Design specs, which are regulated by Lithia’s corporate office, helped cut out much of the guess work when it came to selecting design specs, according to project manager Regan Meredith with Dick Anderson Construction.

Meredith added that there were several moving parts to this particular build.

“During the project, we touched just about every part of the building,” she said. “It had its challenges but overall, we were incredibly pleased with the finished product.”

Principe couldn’t agree more.

“Hats-off to the construction crew and their ability to accommodate our requests on the fly,” he said.

24 HOUR SERVICE

• Remodel • Commercial • Data Cabling

• Service Work • Residential

Congratulations

LITHIA DODGE

ON YOUR BEAUTIFUL NEW SERVICE CENTER!

406.245.9551

www.ACTIONELECTRICINC.com

536 Moore Lane Billings, MT 59101

406.252.8990

Congratulations Lithia Dodge!

Top:AtechnicianattheExpress LubeCenterwillenteryour vehicle’sinformationintoa computeratthefrontdesk.

Commercial Glazing Contractor Aluminum Storefront & Doors Horton Automatic Doors AAADM Certified Steel Doors & Frames Marvin Windows Therma Tru Doors Glass & Glazing 32

I December 2013

Middle:Threeteamsoftwo technicians work inconcertto getyourvehiclein,outandback ontheroadsafely.

Left:Asecluded“kidsroom” offersaroomforthelittleones toroamandplaywhileyourcar isbeingserviced.

Oppositepage,top:Anupdated customer serviceareafeatures several podsofemployees eager toassistwithanyofyour transportationneeds.

Billingsbusiness

Lithia DoDge invites You to see their

new serviCe Center

buiLt with You in minD!

Petrol portal

A set of sliding glass doors separates the new lube center from the customer service and waiting areas. It was in this space where the pre-existing cabinet store once stood—a space that Dick Anderson Construction had to completely demolish and build back from scratch.

The only portion of the pre-existing structure that remains in the new service area is the concrete. Shined and polished with such precision that the actual aggregate in the concrete is now visible, you’d never know it was the original flooring.

A sweeping panel of windows lining the service center’s entrance floods the space with natural light, a design feature that makes all the vehicles sparkle.

Customers should take note of the new location of the service entrance.

While the old service area was located on the west side of the dealership, the new Express Lube Center is located on the south side of the building.

“Just pull up to the door, honk and we’ll take care of you,” Principe said.

A technician is at-the-ready to greet customers as they pull into the bay, and customers are offered respite in the dealership’s comfortable waiting area.

One of the biggest draws for customers is the rate at which Lithia is now able to perform their standard oil changes and lube jobs.

We’re now able to perform around 75 a day,” Principe said, “about double the capacity we were able to offer in our old service area.”

Three teams of two technicians man each express lane; in the past, one technician handled this.

“The new setup melds speed and efficiency,” Principe said, noting that he enjoys working in such a fast-paced industry.

After the entire project was completed in August, Principe said he was especially pleased with the building’s clean lines and sharper image—even the building’s front façade received a facelift.

“We had a great time working with Dave and his team at Lithia,” Meredith said. They are professional, cooperative and make their customers number one.”

Billingsbusiness

Come in toDaY

Gas Vehicles Oil chanGe

$24.95

Expires 12/31/13

December 2013

I

33

special advertising section

Small Town, Bright Lights

Lockwood IGA remodeL mAkes for brIGhter,

more spAcIous store, but smALL-town frIendLIness remAIns.

By Brenda Maas • Photos By Larry Mayer

When Shayne Meskimen, owner of Lockwood IGA for the past 21 years, decided to remodel the store, he had two main objectives in mind: create space for greater product selection and increase the building’s energy efficiency.

To accomplish the latter, Meskimen first “re-lamped” the entire store using the expertise from McCabe Electric.

“We went from T12 to T8 bulbs for energy efficiency,” noted Meskimen.

It was quite an expense, but customers have already commented about the brighter lights, he added.

TheLockwoodIGA,locatedat1960OldHardinRd.,wasremodeledthispastyear.Thestoreisnow30percentlargerwithagreatervarietyofofferings.

34

I December 2013

Billingsbusiness

special advertising section

“I wanted to add more varIety Into the store, so we

added a new sIx-foot delI cooler, more

beer and beverage space and Increased the frozen food sectIon. we also brought In a new produce case—It’s the fIrst of Its kInd In

montana.”

—shayne meskImen, owner of

lockwood Iga

The next item on the energy efficiency docket is completely out of sight. Using experts from Air Controls, he swapped out the existing 13 refrigeration compressors for a computerized rack of just five smaller and highly-effective compressors, all installed in an added room, dedicated to the high-tech, multi-compressor rack system by Zero Zone.

Compressors numbers 1-3 run all the time, Meskimen explained, and numbers 4-5 only run “on demand,” meaning that if the system only needs 10 percent more, that’s what number 4 will provide, for example. In addition, the lead compressor is a variable speed compressor; under low-load conditions it will run at 25 or 50 percent. This eliminates frequent cycling, which, in turn, increases efficiency and longevity.

Duringtheremodelingproject,theoldvestibulewasremovedtomakewayforanewonethatismorespacious,brighter,andheated.

Itincludesautomaticslidingdoors.

commitment what does

look like?

DSN2650 - Red Lodge Coloring Contes 7.5x4 Proud to finance the new lockwood iga Full Color visit your local branch or firstinterstate.com

Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

35

special advertising section

Congratulations On Your New Advanced Refrigeration System, Lockwood IGA!

36

I December 2013

Billingsbusiness

special advertising section

Add-ons

After the re-vamped lighting, the next phase addressed the store’s west-facing vestibule.

The existing one was removed, and a new, larger vestibule was built in its place, complete with automatic sliding doors, better lighting, heat and more space for grocery carts. The renovated space offers easy, welcoming access into the store.

With that phase completed, the project turned to the east-side of the existing store.

Over the course of about six months, S-Bar-S completed a building addition that increased the entire store’s square footage by 30 percent. Although the store had been remodeled 12 years ago, this project was more extensive and helped Meskimen with his goal of more space for a greater product selection.

“I wanted to add more variety into the store,” he said, “so we added a new six-foot deli cooler, more beer and beverage space and increased the frozen food section. We also brought

CongratLockwood ulatioIGA! ns Oppositepage,left:Thechangesinthefreezersectionaremostnoticeable,withbrightcolors,high-efficient lightingandnewfreezersthatallowcustomerstobetterviewtheselections.OwnerShayneMeskimenmadea consciousdecisiontokeeptheareaopensothatcustomershaveroomtomaneuverandvisitinthiscommunitybasedstore.Above: Thenewproducecooler,designedtomimicstallsatafarmer’smarket,makesproduce moreaccessibletocustomerswhileallowingemployeestobettercontrolqualityandstock.Thelimegreenwalls pullcolorsfromtheproduce.

Meskimen can also remotely input changes and alerts, essentially controlling the entire system from his smart phone.

Steve Stokes, project/service manager with Air Controls, noted that installation was tricky because they had to keep the old system working—the store was open as usual— while installing the new system and bringing it “on line.”

“We’ve done this before, but it still takes a coordinated effort,” he said, “and sometimes you have to be creative to make it all work.”

“This system and installation is perfection,” added Meskimen. “I wouldn’t use anyone other than Air Controls to do something like this.”

Hometown proud

As a community grocer, Meskimen follows his own philosophy of keeping work local whenever possible. For example, Tom Stichman, president and CEO of S-Bar-S, served as the general contractor for the remodel. Stichman and Meskimen have been business neighbors for more than two decades. McCabe Electric is another Lockwoodbased business.

“All the other contractors are owned by Billings people,” Meskimen said. “I do not use out-of-town and out-of-state corporations—that’s very important to me. It’s who I am.”

The neighboring business owners have a solid working relationship.

“We are very happy to be part of the design and new modern look of the store,” noted Stichman, who designed and constructed the additions as well as coordinating subcontractors. “It was a challenge for us as a general contractor because the store needed to stay open during the construction. IGA did not lose hours for business, and we were able to complete the project per contract.”

Flexibility was another important component in selecting a contractor, noted Meskimen. He did not have a strict timeline because he anticipated changes along the way.

Billingsbusiness

Job Well Done!

• Fabricated Steel • Structural Steel Erection • Steel Design 415 Albert Street • 406-256-3200

Congratulations

Shane & Dani!

You make Lockwood Proud Thanks for choosing S Bar S as your general contractor!

Building the West: Serving Billings & Surrounding Area www.s-bar-s.com

Visit our 20,000 sq. ft. store at 2032 Old Hardin Rd. December 2013

I

37

special advertising section

Amajorityoftheremodel includedchangingout13 refrigerationcompressors foranultra-efficient 5-compressorrack system—allwhilekeeping theentirestoreopenand “on-line.”

in a new produce case—it’s the first of its kind in Montana. I can increase produce variety and count while this case makes it easier to restock fresh produce.”

The new open-air produce cooler features individual baskets for each type of product—from oranges to watermelon, coconuts to cranberries—that resembles streetbased farmer’s markets and a more personal shopping experience.

Each basket can be removed to keep the cooler super-clean, or even replaced if necessary.

Everybody loves this new case, Meskimen said.

The bright, invigorating colors in the produce are also subtly reflected in the energetic colors that Meskimen selected for the walls—lemony yellow, pure plum, deep blueberry and lime green are just a few.

“Our customers really like these new colors, too,” he noted.

The bakery now has a new proofing box/steam oven that increases the variety of fresh-baked goods the IGA can offer, and the deli has a new six-foot cooler that offers specialty cheeses, lunch meats, salads and other delicious items.

In addition, the meat department service cooler was moved out four feet, allowing the butcher to have more space to operate.

“We are famous for our meat department,” Meskimen pointed out. “It’s just like old school—you point to what you want and we make the cut for you, just the way you want it. People come from all over to buy from our meat department.”

The open-air beer/beverage cooler increased from 18 feet to 30 feet, which allows for an increased product selection for customers. The old coolers had doors that limited the product visibility for customers.

All about community

At the far eastern end the store stands the new freezer section. Meskimen proudly shows that the 40 new freezer “doors,” which replaced 28 older ones, are also designed

Congratulations

Congratulations

Lockwood IGA!

Lockwood IGA

We are proud to be involved with this project!

Industrial

ercial

Comm

2915 Hannon Rd.

tial

406-245-6100

en sid

Re

Congratulations

Lock wood

IGA

Thanks

lD

Roy RRy

Ha

Donald W. McCabe

406-860-5225

Creating Images Since 1906

715 Central avenue • (406) 252-5172 • www.bigskylinen.com I December 2013

Dona

McCabe Elec tric, Inc.

for Choosing Big sky Linen To serve you!

38

DavID

l a n o s r e P cian r u Yo lec tri E

Four Generations of Electricians Serving Montana Since 1917

Roby

n

Billingsbusiness

special advertising section Meskimenadded twonewsigntowers thatarevisibleto trafficalongtheI-90 corridor.

to increase the sight line into the freezer while the LED lighting makes it easier for customers see their options.

The new lighting makes the boxes just about jump out, he noted.

In addition, Meskimen points out the spaciousness of the freezer section, which lines the east wall in an oblong U-shape and won’t crowd customers with the carts. He is also very conscious of those with special needs like wheelchairs or mobility assistance.

“I could have had longer aisles and more products on the shelves, but I went totally against the grain and tried something different,” he noted about the shortened aisles and end caps.

“We are a community store, and I want people to have the space to talk and visit,” he said. “That’s what we are about.”

Very ImpressIVe remodel!

Best of luck AlwAys!

W R OlsOn

M a s o n r y

CommerCial – residential • BloCk & BriCkwork wayne olson • 406-698-4357 or 406-256-5433

conGratulationS Shane & Dani on your remoDel lockwooD iGa iS a Great Store!

Billings Insulation Service

we Guarantee your SatiSfaction

New Construction - Residential - Commercial

www.billinGSinSulation.com | 406-256-1956 Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

39

SALES moves

C heapest isn ’ t always best ;

L earn how to navigate the bidding process The major flaw with the RFP process is that the people conducting the bidding are not the people who use the product or service once the bidding is complete.

Jeffrey Gitomer Jeffrey Gitomer is the author of The Sales Bible and The Little Red Book of Selling.

Reach him at 704-333-1112 or email salesman@gitomer.com

40

I December 2013

“They get bids for everything and always take the lowest bid.”

“They send out an RFP and I can never speak to the decision maker.”

“We’re becoming a commodity. All they do is take the lowest bid.”

“It’s the government. They have to take the lowest bid.”

Many companies have become smart buyers, but many have become too smart.

They’ve refined the buying process so far that they have precluded the words “quality” and “value” from the buying process and they have taken the words productivity, ease of use, and morale out of the delivery process.

The typical request for proposal has a bunch of standards about what has to be offered by the vendor, but far too little (or nothing) about what happens after the company takes ownership. They have the “specs” in the RFP, but not the details of use, value, productivity or morale.

The major flaw with the RFP process is that the people conducting the bidding are not the people who use the product or service once the bidding is complete. Nor, for the most part, do they care.

The main goal of bidding is not to get the best product.

The main goal of bidding is to get the cheapest price. And oftentimes that precludes the best product. It also lowers the profit of the company doing the bidding. Long term, this is not good for the survival of a

company.

Reality: “The customer took the lowest bid” is as bogus as “the dog ate my homework.”

The fact is you let the customer control the selling/buying process. Not good.

Reality: If you follow the customer’s RFP requirements you will lose even if you win. If you win, it’s likely you did at a severe reduction of price and loss of profit. Not good.

That’s the bad news. Let me give you the good news, and the sales news. There are several strategies you can employ to get around the bidding process, or legally and ethically change the bidding process. Here are some ideas you can begin to use immediately: 1. Ask for a clause to be put into the RFP that states all claims must be backed up with customer testimonial videos as proof. Any procurement department should be happy to add this clause into their bidding process. It will assure them that everything being claimed will come to pass. This will also help in establishing the reality of installation, easeof-use, and long-term serviceability. Prove it to win it.

2. Request that the people who actually use the product or service you’re selling be more involved in the selection process. Especially as it relates to their actual experience and their projected needs. This is not as difficult as it sounds, especially if you can apply internal pressure to senior management where your product will be used. Keep in

mind that procurement and purchasing don’t actually use what they purchase. They just buy. They’re relying on the person or people who made the internal request, and will often get their input before making a final decision.

3. Make an appointment with the CFO. He or she is most interested in making a profit, not just saving a dollar. Make your case against taking the lowest price and in favor of making a profit. Rule of sale: The higher you go to make your presentation, the easier the sale becomes.

4. Have an active socialmedia presence that is easily findable, so your reputation is both visible and impressive. The customer will check you out before you get there, and may use it as part of the decision-making process.

4.5. Gain better insight to the purchase of your products and services. Talk to the person who makes the budget, not the person who spends it.

Make service response time a mandatory part of the bid. Talk to those responsible for what happens after purchase, not the people buying it. Make certain

that third-party proof, in video, is a major part of your proposal.

Caution: The bidding process is often tightly controlled by those who execute it. The only people likely to influence change are C-level executives.

Get with them as part of your normal selling process.

Note well: Every company, even the government, has “preferred vendors.” People who have achieved a “higher than equal” status. Become one of them.

Make the connection connect to the world while SAVinG time, trAVel, And money.

Vision Net has been a leader in video conferencing throughout Montana since 1995. Thanks to our state-of-the-art solutions, universities, K-12 schools, the legal community, and private industries have made important connections all over the world without ever having to leave town. You can rent a studio, own your own fully-integrated system or get mobile or desktop conferencing as a service.

If you don’t have enough tech support in house, you can try our Managed Video Services and let us take care What’s your vision? www.vision.net | 1-866-334-8638 | sales@vision.net of it for you.

Billingsbusiness

Business Success StoriesBriefs Recognizing People and Local Achievements Commerce at a Glance

Rickhoff named digital director

He will also assist in developing programs and approaches for other media companies in Kyle Rickhoff has been pro- Lee Enterprises, the parent moted to digital director at Bill- company of Billings Gazette ings Gazette Communications. Publisher Communica- Mike Gulledge promoted tions. He will Rickhoff because of his ability be responsible to innovate in Billings as well for all digital as throughout the company. production, Previously, Rickhoff served as including digital editor for The Gazette. content, Kyle Rickhoff developPeterson receives ment and sales integration.

Rickhoff will work with the industry honor Gazette departments to ensure Nikki Peterson, a sanitarhigh-quality digital content is ian-in-training at RiverStone presented in a way that reaches Health, received the Vernon E. readers and serves advertisers. Sloulin, Registered Sanitarian,

TM

Billingsbusiness

Rookie of the Year Award at the annual meeting of the Montana Environmental Health AsNikki Peterson sociation. The MEHA rookie award is given to a Montanan who has worked less than 18 months in the field.

Peterson graduated from Montana State University in Bozeman in 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in cell biology and neuroscience. A member of the RiverStone Health team since 2011, she joined Environmental Health Services in March of

2013. In December, Peterson will take the national exam to become a registered sanitarian.

by his family in 1952. “There is no business in America, in Montana and in our communities like ours. Not only do we employ great people and help Laurel’s Fichtner them provide for their families, named top dealer but we are involved in our comKenneth Fichtner of Fichmunities.” tner Chevrolet in Laurel has Fichtner, a 1978 graduate been nominated for the 2014 of Laurel High School, earned TIME Dealer of the Year award. a bachelor’s degree in business Fichtner is one of 57 dealer administration and accountnominees from across the ing at Eastern Montana College country who will be honored (now Montana State Univerat the 97th annual National sity Billings) in 1982. Despite Automobile Dealers Associaoffers to work at large national tion Convention and Exposiaccounting firms, he decided tion in New Orleans on Jan. to join the family business and 25. The announcement of this attended the Chevrolet Dealer year’s nominees was made by Management Academy in WarJed Hartman, group publisher, ren, Mich. “My love was for the Time Inc. News and Business, retail automotive industry,” he and Tim Russi, president of said. “I began in 1964 washAuto Finance for Ally Financial. ing insects off of headlamps at In its third year as exclusive Fichtner Chevrolet in Bridger, sponsor, Ally will recognize Mont. I spent every afternoon dealer nominees and their after school, every Saturday community efforts by contrib- and every summer in the dealuting $1,000 to each nominee’s ership learning and working in charity of choice. Nominees every department.” will also be recognized on the Fichtner became a dealer in website AllyDealerHeroes.com, 2005 and owns the dealership which highlights the philwith his father, mother and two anthropic contributions and sisters. achievements of auto dealers across the U.S. Lender joins The TIME Dealer of the Year award is one of the automobile Universal industry’s most prestigious and Dona Losett is Universal highly coveted honors.

Lending Corporation MonFichtner, 53, was chosen to tana’s newest retail mortgage represent the Montana Autoloan originator. Losett has an mobile Dealers Association in extensive the national competition — one mortgage of only 57 auto dealers from banking 17,000 nationwide. background “I am privileged and honwith more ored to be a third-generation than 25 years automobile dealer,” Fichtner experience said of the dealership founded in product Dona Losett

and program knowledge. She also has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Montana State University Billings and is a graduate of PCB Graduate School of University of Seattle.

Losett may be reached at dlosett@ulc.com, 294-2663 or at the office at 2619 St. Johns Ave., Suite A.

Seedhouse earns new designation

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans financial representative Vicki Seedhouse, CFP, CLU, FIC, earned the designation of Retirement Income Certified Professional after completing an intensive three-part course offered

by The American College of Vicki Bryn Mawr, Seedhouse Pa., in conjunction with LIMRA International and GAMA International.

The course focuses on various risks and solutions that can impact retirement and includes ways to create a retirement income plan based on identified income needs and objectives so individuals can maintain a desired lifestyle. The course also offers a deep dive on sources of retirement income such as Social Security benefits, annuities, life insurance and federal and military employee benefits.

Seedhouse serves Lutherans and their family members in Billings and surrounding areas by providing financial guidance and solutions to help them achieve their financial goals.

December 2013

I

41

Montana patents Below are listed U.S. patents issued to Montana inventors Sept. 24 through Oct. 22. For assistance in patent filing, call Billings patent attorney Antoinette M. Tease at 406-294-9000.

Hugh E. Heatherington of Bozeman: Injection control device with gearing mechanism.

8,540,681. Sept. 24. BSECS Holdings, LLC of Bozeman.

Jason Rye and Kyle M. Hanson, both of Kalispell: Processing assembly for semiconductor workpiece and methods of processing same. 8,541,309.

Sept. 24. Applied Materials Inc. of Santa Clara, Calif.

Daniel W. Price of Love-

land, Ohio; William E. Clem of Bozeman; Matthew C. Miller, Cory G. Kimball, Brennan G. McCabe and Jeffrey D. Messerly, all of Cincinnati, and Shawn C. Snyder of Greendale, Ind.: Claiming the ornamental design for an electrical connector adapter. D690,267. Sept. 24.

Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. of Cincinnati.

Jayhong A. Chong of Brookline, Mass.; Christopher Fanger of Bolton, Mass.; Glenn R. Larsen of Sudbury, Mass.; William C. Lumma Jr., of Helena; Magdalene M. Moran of Brookline, Mass.; Amy S. Ripka of Reading, Mass.; Dennis John Underwood of Jamaica Plain, Mass.; Man-

fred Weigele of Cambridge, Mass.; Xiaoguang Zhen of Newton, Mass.; Anu Mahadevan of Westford, Mass., and Peter Meltzer of Lexington, Mass.: Substituted pyrimido 4.5d pyrimidin-4-one compounds for modulating TRPV3 function.

8,552,009. Oct. 8.

Gary D. Bies and Raymond R. Emery, both of Lincoln, Maine., and Donald Martin Perkins of Ronan: Method of treatment of wood in preparation for manufacture of wooden items. 8,555,521, Oct. 15. HotWoods, LLC of Ronan.

Edward J. Trout, Adam J. Trout and Andy Breke, all of Billings: Telescoping frame system for portable home or other

structure. 8,555,558. Oct. 15.

Eco-Built Homes LLC of Billings.

Ed Austin of Mountain View, Calif., and William J. Ritter and Martin Albini, both of Bozeman: Deployable and disposable container assemblies with bendable support members.

8,556,100. Oct. 15. Evergreen Innovation Partners LLP of Englewood, Colo.

Michael A. Dube of Great Falls; Frederick Marciano, Randall Porter and Nicholas Theodore, all of Phoenix, Ariz.; Eeric Truumees of Southfield, Mich.; Christopher McDonnell of Sandy Hook, Conn., and Daniel F. Justin and Chad W. Lewis, both of Logan, Utah: System and method for vertebra

body plating. 8,556,944. Oct. 15.

Stryker Spine of France.

Steven M. Nitz of Billings: Duplex outlet with current indicator. 8,558,710. Oct. 15.

Paul Beard of Bigfork: Method and apparatus for reducing control communication delay in a remotely controlled apparatus.

8,559,420. Oct. 15. Unmanned Systems Inc. of Henderson, Nev. John A. Gu of Rockaway, N.D., Chuck-yan Wu of San Gabriel, Calif., Matthew K. Donnelly of Gallatin Gateway and Jerry C. L. Kwok of Kew Garden, N.Y.: Electrical power system sensor devices, electrical power system monitoring methods and electrical power system monitoring systems.

8,560,256. Oct. 15. Nexlent, LLC of Rockaway, N.J. Dan Wright Gleason Jr. of Bozeman: Backpack frame system. 8,561,866. Oct. 22. Mystery Rand Ltd. of Bozeman.

Daniel J. Woodruff of Kalispell: Single workpiece processing chamber for processing semi-conductor wafers.

8,562,752. Oct. 22. Applied Materials, Inc. of Santa Clara, Calif.

Helene Bazin-Lee of Hamilton, and Diane Mary Coe, Linos Lazarides, Charlotte Jane Mitchell, Stephen Allan Smith and Naimisha Trivedi, all of Stevenage, United Kingdom: Adenine derivatives. 8,563,717.

Oct. 22. GlaxoSmithKline LLC of Philadelphia, Pa.

Ave. C, 794-6429.

High Definition Studios, 111 N. 30th St., 208-1159.

Montana Local Radio, 111 N. 30th St., 371-5476.

Hunter Douglas Construction LLC, 930 Rochester Drive, 633-0846.

Sir Paints a Lot, Laurel, 6335779.

Livnit Apartments, 5750 Old Montana Road, 256-0732.

Big Sky Blue, 2702 Minnesota Ave. Nicros Inc., St. Paul, Minn., 651-209-0604.

CMC Consulting LLC, 2491 Aspen Way, 647-3715.

Martin Excavation, 1415 River Point Loop, 698-4997.

TM Concrete, 1030 Harvard Ave., 660-0117.

H.J. Martin & Son Inc., Green Bay, Wis., 920-490-3125.

Todd Rosin Construction, 2020 Clark Ave., 656-6533.

BNH Construction, Park City, 860-6969.

Reliable Cleaning Services, 2928 Stinson Ave., 850-8800.

Bohannon Construction, Shepherd, 672-7690.

Noddings Waterworks Inc., 547 S. 20th St. W., Suite 1, 6332316.

Sbarrow Construction Inc., 551 Tabriz Drive, 250-4807.

Big B Construction, 3819 Drury Lane, 208-4140.

Kahuna Shave Ice, 5220 Bell Ave., 927-2051.

Professional Dent Repair, 708 12th St. W., 861-9001.

HSW Pharmaceutical Solutions LLC, 1726 Gleneagles Blvd., 424-777-9129.

Hair By Brittany, 1139 N. 27th St., Suite C, 307-272-4160.

Swipey’s Old Town Tattoo, 649 Main St., 690-6349.

Teresa Donato, Professional Counselor, 1925 Grand Ave., Suite 123, 696-2096.

D.M.D. Services LLC, 738 Miles Ave., 697-1421.

John Fontaine, Glasgow, 228-4955.

Dine in Delivery LLC, 111 N. 30th St., 888-303-3463.

Beyond Average Joe’s Fitness, 1142 Grand Ave., 671-5798.

Harvest Sunshine, 1926 Mullowney Lane, 281-0364.

Lynch Construction, 8 Cavalier St., 353-1001.

Old European Arts, 4017-1/2 First Ave. S., 272-2393.

Akers Precision, 234 Rene Place, 701-713-0295.

McGowan Construction, 33 Wyoming Ave., 671-8436.

Merry Maids, 4188 Vaughn

Lane, 969-5775.

Airefco Inc., 1305 S. 27th St. W., Suite 2, 206-4402.

JM’s Cleaning Service, 611 Oakmont Road, 698-5076.

MLB Construction LLC, 2618 Silver Blvd., 850-8833.

VSI Development Corp., 612 N. 31st St., 702-5908.

Nybo Construction, 628 Ave. F, 794-9600.

Georgia Michael, 2117 Green Valley Drive, 855-5575.

Todd Reichenbach Construction Inc., 1921 Chickadee Circle, 698-7764.

Angela Matta LCSW, LAC, PC, 1925 Grand Ave., Suite 123, 969-5930.

Home Inspection Services, 4531 Phillip St., 860-9514.

1st Class Carpet Care, 912 S. 28th St., 697-5720.

Spotless Solutions, 316 S.

30th St., 208-9675.

Hallett & Sons Expert Movers Inc., Summit, Ill., 708-458-8600.

R & R Personal Services, 300 N. 25th St., 694-7586.

Kleinsasser Construction, 4311 Trailmaster Drive, 839-5029.

Newset Construction, Roundup, 208-8463.

Billings Counseling LLC, 1220 Ave. C, Suite F, 896-1000.

From the Ground Up Enterprises, 2212 Golden Blvd., 694-6967.

An Octopus Garden, 4015 Second Ave. S., 855-8576.

Alyssa Kocher Pierce, 1538 Howard Ave., 230-1447.

Top Notch Concrete LLC, 1136 Alderson Ave., 839-8094.

Blue Diamond Construction, 207 Lewis Ave., 697-8137.

R Vogel Consulting Inc., 1634 Lewis Ave., 698-7887.

Business licenses The following business licenses were issued during October of 2013. The information is provided by the city of Billings.

M&S Construction, 1032 Lake Elmo Drive, 850-9175.

Xtreme Safety and Work Wear Inc., 204 N. 13th St., 670-1926.

Doug Rosin Construction, Roundup, 323-2758.

Legendary Tattoo Studio & Art Gallery PLLC, 1207 Yellowstone River Road, 623-0900.

My Mama’s Way, 1294 Yellowstone Ave., 696-6979.

Jeanna’s Salon, 715 Sixth St. W., 861-6758.

Marlow Carpet Cleaning, 6842 Highway 312, 861-2555.

Spiritually Speaking, 111 N. 23rd St., 208-8860.

Tolman Technologies, 1127 Billingsbusiness

December 2013

I

43

Bankruptcies Billings area barnruptcy petitions filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court Oct 1-31, 2013.

Addresses are Billings unless otherwise noted.

81455, Oct. 7.

Solomon Samuel Neuhardt II, P.O. Box 1744, Oct. 8.

James N. Fletcher, Yolanda Angela Fletcher, 7925 Alderson Ave., Oct. 14.

Donald Edwin Artz, Henrietta Chapter 7 Matthew Alan Simmons, Jac- Levka Artz, 1903 Dogwood Drive, lyn Raquel Simmons, 1144 Central Oct. 15.

Angela Kay Amith, P.O. Box Ave., Oct. 2.

Mandie J. Mckittrick, P.O. Box 525, Park City, Oct. 16.

Richard J. Campodonico, 1400 Poly Drive No. 2a, Oct. 17.

James Clyde Carsner III, 8907 Kautzman Road, Oct. 18.

Kelly Angela Zinnecker, 4513 Morgan Ave., Oct. 19.

Theodore A. Shinneman, 6820 Kirby Road, Shepherd, Oct. 20.

Walter Joseph Johnson, 532 Custer Ave. No. 1, Oct. 21.

Susan Marie Smith, 310

Lavender St., Oct. 21.

Anthony R. Squier, Susan J. Squier,515 Colorado Ave., Oct. 22.

Robin Denise Poole, 2222 Main St., Oct. 23.

Debra Lynn Udelhoven, 490 El Paso St., Oct. 24.

Tiffeny Marie Kline, 3900 Olympic Blvd. #D102 Kimberly Nethercott, 2108 Central Ave., Oct. 28.

1022 N. 22nd St., Hardt, Mark D. and Beverly Fische, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $5,500 4560 Toyon Drive, Neary, Steven G. and Tracy F., L. Quast & Son Inc., $8,000 1980 Gleneagles Blvd., Kaas, Heiko, Handy Pro, $8,860 61 Gold Pan Lane, Fink, Chad S., $13,000 2517 Longfellow Place, La Mont, Evelyn M., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $13,000 3308 Reimers Park Drive, Shelton, Steven L., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $12,000 1022 N. 22 St., Hardt, Mark D. and Beverly Fische, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $12,000 2009 Parkhill Drive, Linder, Lori, Lynnrich Inc., $4,568 1849 Fantan St., Stockton, Larry D. and Ardis K, Lynnrich Inc., $179 9 Jefferson St., Woods, Lynda J., Van Arsdale Construction, $6,000 1048 Parkhill Drive, Bangert, Leroy W. and Jane E., $6,000 1203 Colton Blvd., Dailey.

Leonard L. Jr. and Kathy C, $1,500 4076 Rifle Creek Trail, Powers, Kenneth T. and Terry L., G.M. Con-

struction & Roofing, $15,000 735 Park Lane, Stoner, Patrick T. and Pearl L, Tom Hennessy Construction, $7,000 3955 Trailwood Drive, Scott, Steve A., Shamrock Exteriors, $12,000 2818 Michigan St., Dalke, Dean D., Aaron Johnson Construction, $3,000 1945 Custer Ave., Malek, Jean M., All Action Construction LLC, $7,000 3222 40 St. W., Evanson, James E. and Candace F, Lynnrich Inc., $10,740 4180 Iron Horse Trail, Brooke, Kevin V, $10,000 4005 Rifle Creek Trail, Burrows, Shellye K., Moonlight Construction, $8,900 608 Cairo Place, Riffle, Ray L. (etal), Halverson Home Improvement, $3,000

Gary Steven Rath, Marina Anatolyevna Rath, 1723 Howard Ave., Oct. 28.

Kristy Anne Bohl, 3733 Lava Circle, Oct. 28.

Timothy M. Zimbelman, Debra D. Zimbelman, P.O. Box 92, Bridger, Oct. 29.

Vickie Lynn Lafurge, 3805 Sandpiper Lane, Oct. 30.

James Howard Duggins, Sinda

Marie Duggins, P.O. Box 173, Broadview, Oct. 30.

Gerald R Theis Jr., 2048 Overland Ave. Suite 202, Oct. 31.

Chapter 13 Daniel Dean Dart, Melanie Renee Dart, 816 W. Maryland Lane, Laurel, Oct. 25.

Residential Permits Demolition Permit Residential

O. and Julie, $12,000 2708 Yellowstone Ave., Nau2936 Upper Highwood Drive, man, Barbara C., Artisan Builders, Dawson, Mark A., BTS, $20,000 $10,000 707 N. Wagner Lane, Clay, 2539 Custer Ave., Morris, Margaret, Finish Line Construction, Larry P. and Nancy L., Ray Meyer $2,000 Construction, $4,042 934 Aronson Ave., Barry, Lou W. Addition Single/Duplex/Garage Revocablei, Williams Construction, $8,300 4302 Laredo Place, Harris, 845 Alderson Ave., Holbrook, James R. and Janice K., Hanna Robert V., Williams Construction, Construction, $14,000 $8,000 209 Ave. D, Wade, Anne-Marie, 5206 Rimrock Road, Woody, Jean, $80,000 William J., Property Improvements 3402 Perth Circle, Hamm, Co, $9,350 Bruce and Marilyn, Les Nouveau 671 Garnet Ave., Omo, Roy E. Milieux-Bob Habeck, $900 and Julie A., B&K Roofing, $11,500 2602 Lyndale Lane, Beers, Kent 2115 Broadwater Ave., SchO. and Julie, $1,620 weigert, Lori and John, Rambur 3721 Ave. F, Hensel, Craig C., Construction, $5,000 $3,450 3127 Edmond St., Hendricks, 3238 Durland Drive, Ronald, Commercial Roof Water Heyneman, Charles and Valeria L., Proof, $7,360 Ty Nelson Construction, $1,000 3115 Saddleback Trail, Mills, Richard A. and Christine L., Tom Fence/Roof/Siding Hennessy Construction, $7,200 602 Cairo Place, Brister, Donald 4546 Laredo Place, Dallner, T. and Rosemary A., Halverson Roger F. and Constance L., KirkHome Improvement, $2,800 ness Roofing & Supply, $23,018 508 17 St. W., David Foster, 169 Norris Court, Gass, William Donahue Roofing, $6,000 R. and Ruth A., All Seasons Roof4234 Toyon Drive, Salmi, ing, $9,480 Lyle M. and Shelley, Steve Jones 2602 Lyndale Lane, Beers, Kent Construction LLC, $3,600 44

I December 2013

tion Roofing Division, $15,000 4440 Pine Cove Road, McDowell, Joshua S. and Alison, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $10,000 30 Jackson St., Muhs, Darryl J., Fisher Roofing, $5,880 3511 Timberline Drive, Eaton, Seth W., $3,000 1702 Ave. C, Ellsworth, Thomas J. and Nora J., Horgdal Construction LLC, $12,000 1065 Hemingway Ave., Keith Deivincenzi, L J Roofing, $4,500 450 Pinon Drive, McDevitt, Martin and Pamela A., L J Roofing, $6,500 2811 Missouri St., Elaine Higgins Family Ltd Ptnr, B&W Builders, $7,000 2955 Myrtle Drive, Zelaya, Annabelle M., C’s Construction of Billings, $7,450 1403 Cook Ave., Davis, Marsha Kay, Donahue Roofing, $6,500 Fence/Roof/Siding 3033 Demaret Place, Tussing, Ronald H. and Darlene R., Donahue 716 Moon Beam Lane, Billy Roofing, $10,777 McBee, $10,000 1519 Burlington Ave., Lechner, 4536 Pine Cove Road, Brilz, Michael B., K-Designers, $15,232 James M. and Tina C., Sprague 3015 Melrose Lane, Hamre, Construction Roofing Division, Allan E. and Marge G., Tom Hen$8,000 nessy Construction, $7,500 2490 Ridgewood Lane, Stan2228 Ash St., Cloutier, Margaaway, Doline A., Sprague Construc- ret, C’s Construction of Billings,

$9,161 3061 Ave. D, Bishop, Robert E. and Janelle C., Tom Hennessy Construction, $9,000 4636 S. Woodhaven Way, Streiff, Gordon and Suzanne, Tom Hennessy Construction, $9,000 3108 Zimmerman Place, Bross, Brian A., Kreiter Construction, $25,000 1108 Lewis Ave., Egan, Douglas C., B&C Homebuilders, $7,000 1207 Juneau Drive, Kostelecky, Kenneth G. and Lorett, TJ Construction Inc., $5,500 2426 Ave. B, Anderson, Gordon L., $300 6135 Calloway Blvd., John S. Poling Revocable Trust, Residential Roofing, $5,000 3468 Spalding Ave., Joseph and Linda Hoppman, $10,000 3115 Stone St., Hullinger Sherri L, Finish Line Construction, $1,600 947 Dixon St., Stecher Wilfred J. and Jeanne R., Kristian Nickol Construction, $7,500 1217 Crystal Lake Lane, Myers, Lona Craft, Kristian Nickol Construction, $3,500 415 Hansen Lane, Brownell, Craig D., Reule Builders, $3,500 1105 Evergreen Drive, Owen, Gary L. and Dona Jean, Norse Billingsbusiness

Builders, $7,500 2801 Treasure Drive, Lee, Finish Line Construction, $5,750 463 Caravan Ave., Staples, Eric D., B&K Roofing, $10,500 3525 Dunlop Ave., Hoffman, Kerry P. and Carol J., Handy Pro, $13,110 2321 Yellowstone Ave., Haynie, Nathan, $12,800 4134 Blackpool Trail, Hilbert, Mark A. and Michelle L., Finishing Touch Paint & Raingutter, $11,000 3182 Shotgun Trail, Oliphant, Gregory C. and Denise A., Finishing Touch Paint & Raingutter, $17,000 2323 Rimrock Road, Richardson, Robert W. and Jane L., L J Roofing, $10,000 2708 McCormick Lane, Brown, Holly C., Donahue Roofing, $7,397 4458 Loma Vista Drive, Vancleeve, Rick L. and Cindy L., Donahue Roofing, $32,150 504 Ave. E, Gerrells, Donahue Roofing, $9,225 3011 Cove Creek Circle, Uhrich, Michael and Becky, Donahue Roofing, $10,880 312 Lewis Ave., Josh Hill, $2,000 931 Aronson Ave, Banka, Cynthia S., Ekle Construction, $7,500 2209 Sunnyview Lane, Lane, Robert S. and Kimberly F., Williams Construction, $6,700 751 Antelope Place, Morton, Clark W. and Sylvia A., Dustin Davison Construction, $8,000 3021 Zimmerman Trail, Davidson, David B. and Cynthia O., One Source Construction LLC, $678 836 Agate Ave., Unruh, Don T. and Jermaine J., $2,000 6131 Calloway Blvd., J.C. Bower Properties LLC, Residential Roofing, $8,500 730 Agate Ave., Ball, Christopher Lee, $3,500 737 Oasis Drive, Carey, Michael D. and Cari L., Kirkness Roofing & Supply, $7,160 Billingsbusiness

121 Lexington Drive, Whelan, Joan M., Kirkness Roofing & Supply, $7,364 201 S. 36th St., Flynn, Benjamin C. and Marjorie K., Vannoy Metal Works, $4,100 2928 Parkhill Drive, Bryan, Kevan F. and Cynthia, Cerouski Construction, $7,200 526 O’Malley Drive, Walker, Lori J., Dustin Davison Construction, $8,000 5040 Rimrock Road, Lester, Daniel V., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $16,000 2603 Huckleberry Lane N., Bolin, Brent P. and Mary K., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $12,500 4602 Stone St., Sy Ellard, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $5,000 2420 21 St. W., Smith, Jimmy Lee, $6,000 2500 Keel Drive, Harrison, Gerald L. and Brenda L., J&T Roofing, $7,200 1255 Patriot St., Hill, Bruce J. and Jacqueline A., Dave Spitzer Construction, $6,000 3126 37th St. W., Shelton, Christopher W., Makhanov Installation, $9,000 2541 Broadwater Ave., Vanhoozer, Sharon K. and Ranetta, Mark Lahey, $6,500 931 Sargeant at Arms Ave., Langager, N. Dennis and Rita E., $2,908 118 N. 29th St., Temple, Gary L., Pella Window Store, $975 3206 Nolana Drive, Higgins, Dane R. and Angie L., Moonlight Construction, $8,000 44 Yellowstone Ave., Birdwell, Weldon J. II and Luann, Bradford Roof Management Inc., $10,200 338 Monroe St., Frank, Rena C., 1,500 6161 Masters Blvd., R&M Stultz Family Trust, All Seasons Roofing, $18,270

1824 Wyoming Ave., Jansma, Derek L, and Lourdes D,, J&T Roofing, $4,400 6130 Aviara Blvd., Wallace, Roger L., J&T Roofing, $18,000 2451 Rimrock Road, Dan Curtis, Good Roofing-Valerie GoodFree, $7,650 60 Jonquil Circle, Schmidt, Michael A., Billings Steel Siding, $5,185 6208 Gray Hawk Court, Mercer, Jay A., Paul Perry Construction, $14,000 1075 Lincoln Lane, Brewington, Gerald Edward, JT Exteriors LLP, $6,000 2240 George St., Rae Lee LLC, Turning Leaf Construction, $2,000 4151 Smohawk Trail, Fink, Dana M., G.M. Construction & Roofing, $3,000 3916 Bushwood Drive, Christianson, David F. and Pamela, B&K Roofing, $19,000 5830 Summerwood Circle, Krieger, B&K Roofing, $18,000 3245 Turnberry Circle, Olson, James D. and Sandra L, Wanner Roofing, $8,000 3959 Rimrock Road, Krause, Colleen G. Tom Hennessy Construction, $9,000 38 Broadwater Ave., Schmalz, David W. and Barbara K., $1,500 801 Governors Blvd., Wuest, Ronald L. and Sharon A., Aftermath Reconstruction, $5,000 3121 Mcbride St., Reed, Henry E. and Mary H. Trustee, Kovash Construction LLC, $1,500 1824 Bridge Stone St., Schloss, Susan Ann, Residential Roofing, $8,000 539 Parkhill Drive, NA, Residential Roofing, $3,500 4235 Iron Horse Trail, Jakes, Duane A., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $15,000 4515 Palisades Park Drive, Fleming, Frank R. and Lori A., Sprague Construction Roofing

Division, $15,000 2403 Ash St., Wheeler, Marilyn, Nelson, Dunmore LLC, $20,000 624 Park Lane, Nordquist, Helen B., Billings Window & Siding Specialists, $17,672 2234 Remington Square, James A. Rawlings Revocable Trust, Pella Window Store, $900 1252 Mossman Drive, Harmon, Robert T. and Loreen M., Kyle Kring Construction, $1,100 128 Jefferson St., Barrett, Fred C., Ray Meyer Construction, $2,280 1206 Princeton Ave., Petrie, Shawn, Tom Hennessy Construction, $4,200 2714 Palm Drive, NHC Rentals LLC, Ketchum Construction & Woodworks Inc., $8,000 3957 Palisades Park Drive, Lee, James R. and Mary J., Finish Line Construction, $8,500 3608 Fort Laramie Drive, Foos, Randolph J. and Leland E., Marstaeller Construction, $5,000 1014 Nutter Blvd., Watson, Anthony C. and Angela C., Chapel Custom Handywork, $6,500 1076 Babcock Blvd., Emard, Robert H. and Elizabeth, $3,200 1320 Mading Drive, Rademaker, David A. and Shauna L., 4M Construction Inc., $3,000 1022 24th St. W., Robin Dangerfield, $1,500 1022 24th St. W., Robin Dangerfield, $500 11 Gold Pan Lane, Myhre, Margaret, Tom Hennessy Construction, $6,500 2203 St. Andrews Drive, Keen Larry, Property Improvements Co, $6,100 2976 Monad Road, Bonini, Bonini Enterprises LLC, $1,800 501 S. 33th St., Vallie, Timothy and Julie, Lynnrich Inc., $7,502 3447 Timberline Drive, Barbara A. Herda Revocable Trust, C’s Construction of Billings, $9,175 120 S. Santa Fe Drive, Shawn,

Highsmith Construction, $12,000 3042 E. Copper Ridge Loop, Leone, Erik D. and Kari, Peak Contracting, $7,000 5525 Sweetgrass Creek Drive, Watters, Marybelle J., Peak Contracting, $7,000 232 Birchwood Drive, Cull, Chris and Paula K., Donahue Roofing, $6,000 1531 Lynn Ave., Johnson, Eddy C. and Steve, Jones Construction LLC, $7,200 4526 Loma Vista Drive, Wall, J. Michael and Christine, T Davis Construction Inc., $10,000 3737 Rimrock Road, Unruh, Jason Douglas and Janeen, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $7,000 1331 Clark Ave., Otto G. Miller Trust, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $6,000 3929 Pine Cove Road, Hicks, Gary W. and Romona F., Rocky Mountain Roofing, $6,300 3954 Pine Cove Road, N/A, Rocky Mountain Roofing, $11,685 2929 Boulder Ave., Vassen, Bryon J. and Michelle L., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $6,000 4347 Palisades Park Drive, Denegre, John G. and Corinne B., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $10,000 720 24th St. W., Warren, Joanne Alex, Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $7,000 2605 Aspen Way, Gallup, Rosalind M., Sprague Construction Roofing Division, $14,000 235 Alderson Ave., Bohn, Crystal K., $3,000 770 Garnet Ave., Bernadette Blaylock, Highlands Construction Inc., $6,600 5416 Gene Sarazen Drive, Reineking, Jeff E. and Patricia, All Seasons Roofing, $6,885 2711 Custer Ave., Deem, Carla G., LJ Roofing, $5,300

2044 Yellowstone Ave., Reich, Philip and Anetta, Steve Jones Construction LLC, $4,800 New Garage 2814 Poly Drive, Capser, E. Michael, Shop/Studio, $22,000 3230 Rimrock Road, Polette, Thomas L., Polette Construction, $20,160 1950 Country Manor Blvd., Worstell, David C., $2,400 109 16th St. W., Heinz, Mary L., $3,980 4401 Morgan Ave., Schwarzrock, Wesley E. and Ellen, $6,300 3111 Myrtle Drive, Cantrell, Russell M. and Michelle, $27,300 1711 W. Thunder Mountain Road, Jeff Junkert Construction, Jeff Junkert Construction Inc., $35,700 436 Miles Ave., Verseman, Michael D., $3,150 1611 14th St. W., Michele Krieg, $3,315 New Single Family 3432 Lucky Penny Lane, Copper Ridge Development LLC, Infinity Homes LLC, $209,440 582 Cherry Hills Road, Baker, Daniel J. and Kimberly D., Brown Builders Inc., $373,845 5952 Foxtail Loop W., BTS, BTS, $169,410 5223 Golden Hollow Road, McCall Development Inc., McCall Development, $132,016 5844 Autumnwood Drive, Breen, Thomas B. Jr. and Sheila A., Cougar Construction, $421,495 5308 Sacagawea Drive, Infinity Homes, Infinity Homes LLC, $219,550 1736 Savona St., Ray and Dave LLC, R&R Builders, $155,225 4238 Woodgrove Drive, Image Builders, Image Builders, $323,235 4206 Woodgrove Drive, December 2013

I

45

Billings Commercial Building Permits Fence/Roof/Siding

1405 S. 32 St. W.

King Avenue Properties LLP

Tom Hennessy Construction

Fence/Roof/Siding

1925 Central Ave.

Black Holdings LLC

Sprague Construction Roofing Div

Fence/Roof/Siding

1030 Central Ave.

Iconnect Montana LLC

Commercial Roof Wtr Proof

Fence/Roof/Siding

801 14 St. W.

Virginia I O’Brien Trust

L J Roofing

Fence/Roof/Siding

2250 King Ave. W.

Footing/Foundation

$5,500

New Other

615 N. 19 St.

Head Start Inc.

S Bar S Supply Contractor

$41,000

Remodel

2251 Belknap Ave.

City Of Billings

Dick Anderson Construction

$110,000

Remodel

300 S. 24 St. W.

Rimrock Owner LP

$82,000

$28,280

Remodel-Change In Use 1603 Grand Ave.

Bob Mc Donald

$560,000

General Mills Restaurants Inc. Broken Arrow Construction Inc.

$18,333

Addition

205 Moore Lane

Crescent Electrical Supply Co. High Tech Const. & Properties,

$175,000

2900 Central Ave.

Bill Hanser

$40,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

3307 Central Ave.

Emerson Patricia A.

Rambur Construction

Remodel

1500 University Drive

MSU Billings

$65,757

Fence/Roof/Siding

624 N. 27 St.

Lyndes Jay C.

American Dream Homes Inc.

Remodel

2255 Overland Ave.

Veeder Homestead LLC

$50,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

1937 Clubhouse Way

Schneiter Enterprises

Kirkness Roofing & Supply

$15,904

Fence/Roof/Siding

1407 Custer Ave.

Billings Junior Woman’s Club Donahue Roofing

$50,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

500 Josephine Drive

Stan-Fuhr Inc.

Braaton Construction

$40,405

Fence/Roof/Siding

723 N.24 St.

Debtor Co.

Debtor Co Trust

$2,400

Fence/Roof/Siding

504 Josephine Drive

Stan-Fuhr Inc.

Braaton Construction

$11,881

New Hotel/Motel

5720 S. Frontage Road

Kelly Inns Ltd.

Langlas & Assoc. Inc.

$7,342,202

Fence/Roof/Siding

504 Josephine Drive

Stan-Fuhr Inc.

Braaton Construction

$11,881

New Other

3605 Hesper Road

Suncap

Harco Services LLC

$408,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

3301 1 Ave. N.

Market Place 3301

Empire Roofing Inc.

$26,000

Parking Lot/Non-Bldg

2209 Central Ave.

Equality Investments LLC

Wharton Asphalt

$65,000

Fence/Roof/Siding

3955 Olympic Blvd.

N/A

Rambur Construction

$21,000

Warehouse/Storage

2152 Grand Ave.

U Haul Real Estate Company MCM Inc/Big Trees Construction

$136,775

Fence/Roof/Siding

2040 Central Ave.

Moonrise Properties LLC

4M Construction Inc.

$5,000

Remodel

300 S. 24 St. W.

Rimrock Owner LP

$500

Fence/Roof/Siding

3007 Montana Ave.

Mitchell Golf

4M Construction Inc.

$32,000

Remodel Multi-Family

14 S. 27 St.

Michael Lee Investments

$10,000

Remodel

1038 Main St.

Reichenbach Properties LLC

$9,000

Addition

951 S. 29 St. W.

Goodwill Partners LLC

Langlas & Assoc. Inc.

Brett Scott

$500

Fence/Roof/Siding

2223 Central Ave.

Sundog Land Company LLC

Stone Home & Garden Service

Fence/Roof/Siding

2055 Woody Drive

Roman Catholic Bishop

Kirkness Roofing & Supply

Fence/Roof/Siding

100 W. Wicks Lane

Intermtn Planned Parenthood Empire Roofing Inc.

Fence/Roof/Siding

701 Beverly Hill Blvd.

NA

Sprague Construction Roofing Div

Fence/Roof/Siding

602 N. 16 St.

Milan LLC

Fence/Roof/Siding

2255 Overland Ave.

Veeder Homestead LLC

Billingsbusiness

Jones Construction Inc.

$819,000

Remodel-Change In Use 520 Wicks Lane

$51,000 $1,100,000

$10,300 $3,215

$1,200

New 3/4 Family

1525 Bench Blvd.

Marsich Investments

Marsich Investments

$269,784

$32,480

New Office/Bank

2900 Central Ave.

Hanser Capital Holdings LLC

Jones Construction Inc.

$885,000

Warehouse/Storage

2120 Lampman Drive

Lampman

$48,000

Remodel

3137 Grand Ave.

Albertsons

Langlas & Assoc. Inc.

$55,000

Rambur Construction

$2,400

Remodel

1305 S. 27 St. W.

Triamic Development LLC

Hulteng Inc.

$78,500

Lennick Bros. Roofing

$3,500

$7,000

$715,905

December 2013

I

47

48

I December 2013

Billingsbusiness