April Chamber Connection by Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

CHAMBER CONNECTION Bismarck-Mandan

April 2018

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH BEST PRACTICES

Junior Achievement Business volunteers in the classroom.

Member Profile Roughrider Harley-Davidson

CHAMBER CONNECTION EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Ron Day.............................................................................................................................. Chair Molly Herrington ...................................................................................................... Chair-Elect Wayne Munson............................................................................................................ Secretary Nick Hacker..................................................................................................................Treasurer Brenda Nagel ............................................................................................................ Past Chair BOARD OF DIRECTORS Paul Brucker ...............Railway Credit Union Tracy Kindem ..........H.A. Thompson & Sons Ron Day ............Andeavor Mandan Refinery Kevin Magstadt ...................Kraus-Anderson Wayne Munson .................Indigo Signworks Dr. Blake Feil ....................Feil Orthodontics Heather Fried ..........Fried Financial Services Brenda Nagel ..................University of Mary Nick Hacker ..............ND Guaranty and Title Mike Nathe ............Bismarck Funeral Home Chad Hatzenbuhler ...Bank of North Dakota Lee Pierce ...............Al Fitterer Architect PC Jeff Herman ................................Petro Hunt Jasper Schneider ..................................NISC Molly Herrington ....................................KLJ Garret Senger ..........MDU Resources Group Russ Honeyman ....................Doosan Bobcat Scott Staudinger ..............Cloverdale Foods Tyler Huck ............Schafer Financial Services Valerie Weigel ....Basin Electric Power Coop Chris Jones ....ND Dept. of Human Services Jennifer Wilson .....................Kirkwood Mall Mitch Kaelbaerer .........................TransTrash CHAMBER STAFF Brian Ritter ................................................................................................................. President Ross Frohlich .......................................................................................... Membership Director David Leingang............................................................................ Community Growth Director Mary Masters................................................................................. Office Support Professional Ryan Parsons........................................................................................................Vice President Shay Peterson .................................................................. Membership Engagement Director Rebecca Rattei................................................................................ Communications Specialist Elliot Rust................................................................................................Chief Financial Officer Cathryn Sprynczynatyk Anderson ........................ Communications Specialist/ LBM Director AnneMarie Hansen ........................................................................ Marketing & Events Intern

CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber Welcomes Frohlich as Membership Director Chamber Seeks Nominations for Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan Bismarck-Mandan Lemonade Day Open for Registration

CHAMBER EVENTS

Chamber Spring Mixer April Membership Mixer: Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge Chamber 101: Maximizing Your Membership

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COLUMNS

President’s Corner

FEATURES

Cover Story 4 Member Profile 10 Ask-A-Pro 30 Chamber Perks 32 Chamber Ribbon Cuttings 36 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701.223.5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com CONTACT INFORMATION Content: The Chamber - 701.223.5660 rrattei@bismancc.com

Advertising: David Leingang dleingang@bismancc.com

MISSION STATEMENT: Leaders for prosperity. Advocates for business.

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President’s Corner

s I write this month’s President’s Corner, there is snow on the ground. My hope is that when you read this, that snow will be gone. If that’s true, that means that Spring has finally arrived and with it the start of construction season. Yes, I realize that construction takes place year-round here in Bismarck-Mandan. However, once the snow melts and the ground thaws, that’s when we really see it take off. And this year will be a busy year for construction. Commercially, there are large projects already ongoing and breaking ground. For instance: Mandan Public Schools just completed an expansion to Mandan Middle School, Bismarck Public Schools is wrapping up expansions to Horizon, Simle and Wachter Middle Schools while the Light of Christ Catholic Schools continue work on the new St. Mary’s Central High School. Plus, Bismarck Public Schools will start work this summer on expansions to both Bismarck and Century High Schools while the Light of Catholic Schools will initiate expansions and remodels at St. Mary’s Grade School and Cathedral School. What’s most encouraging about all of those projects is that they are all necessary because of the increasing student enrollments in our public and private school systems. That’s a challenge that most communities would rather face as opposed to that of declining enrollments. Projects related to education aren’t the only ones you’ll see around town this summer, either. Our financial institutions continue to make significant investments in our community. Our restaurant and retailers continue to add new options, locations, etc. And our healthcare community continues to grow as it serves an increasing amount of patients from not only Bismarck-Mandan, but Western North Dakota and beyond. All of that is a testament to the strength, diversity and stability of our local economy. That’s not to say this growth doesn’t come without challenges because it most certainly does. To address those challenges however, most notably those related to infrastructure and workforce, the Chamber is working alongside our members, the public sector and more. I’m confident that by working together, as partners, we’ll be able to successfully address these challenges and whatever others come our way.

- Brian Ritter President

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Chamber Connection | 3

FEATURE

EMPATHY IS KEY TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

Businesses that promote behavioral health in the workplace are more likely to reduce absenteeism, increase productivity and benefit from associated economic gains, according to the World Health Organization.

WHAT IS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH?

Pamela Sagness is the Director of Behavioral Health Division for North Dakota Department of Human Services. Behavioral health is an umbrella term including everything from general wellness to mental health to substance use disorder. Behavioral health isn’t only about treatment. Sagness said across the continuum, they speak of four stages: prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery. Prevention is an attempt to make an impact before there is any problem — before there are any symptoms of mental disease or before any usage of controlled substances. When looking at the prevention level, Sagness talked of risk factors and protective factors. There are risk factors that are targetable. If a child in fourth grade is starting to have academic failure, that is a risk factor for substance abuse. On the other hand, Sagness said they can identify protective factors as well. If a child is in a small community that is very connected, that is a protective factor against substance abuse. “I grew up in a really small town,” Sagness said. “If someone saw you smoke a cigarette, they would call your mom. That’s a protective factor. You can still have that in large communities, too.” After prevention comes early intervention. Sagness said someone could have one or two risk factors. Maybe they have been charged with Minor in Possession. Maybe they have had their first episode of depression. This is an opportunity to intervene before it becomes a full-blown disease. “(Early intervention) is one of the biggest areas in North Dakota where we lack services,” Sagness said. Right now, reimbursement is tied to diagnosis.

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“There is a window of opportunity between a first symptom and a diagnosis,” Sagness said. “What if we could recognize a first symptom of depression in a child in fourth grade, and what if we could wrap around services? What if we could intervene instead of saying, ‘Well, they’re not bad enough yet.’ We should never look at a parent or individual and say, ‘I’m sorry you’re not bad enough yet.’” The third area in the behavioral health continuum is treatment. Treatment is fairly formalized as part of health care. Sagness said substance use disorder is a chronic disease, and yet most of the treatment is acute. “It’s a chronic disease, and yet most of our work so far has been acute,” Sagness said. “When we send someone to treatment for 28 days and then say, ‘You’re cured.’ Does diabetes work like that? We need to change treatment and look at it as the chronic disease that it is.” Recovery, the fourth stage, comes after treatment. Yet Sagness cautioned these four things are not necessarily linear. Sagness said the Behavioral Health Division examines prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery to see where the system is lacking “If we’re missing a component we’re going to over treat, under treat, we’re going to have no prevention,” Sagness said. “We’ll just continue to grow expenses.”

WHAT ARE BEST PRACTICES FOR BUSINESSES?

Chamber Connection asked Sagness what steps a business can take to create good policies for behavioral health. 1. Build a behavioral health-friendly environment. Be non-judgmental, be empathetic, and use terminology that is not offensive. Sagness said it is important to be empathetic when it comes to behavioral health issues. Punitive action shouldn’t be the automatic response. “If we treated addiction like the health condition that it is, people wouldn’t have to feel shame,” Sagness said, “and that wouldn’t be a barrier to treatment.”

www.bismarckmandan.com 2. Have opportunities for early intervention. Have policies and conversations around early intervention and not judgment or punishment. It’s important to have hard conversations. Sweeping it under the rug isn’t going to make things better. Tiptoeing around the conversation or ignoring that conversation is not going to help that individual. Things don’t magically get better. 3. Offer flexible employment options for an employee undergoing treatment for substance use disorder. Employment and housing are two keys to recovery from addiction. However, most treatment today is not conducive employment. A treatment program may run 9:00am - 4:00pm each day. If an employee needs to leave for a month for treatment, consider holding the job for the employee when he or she returns. Keith Schmaltz, who coordinates human resources and safety for Northwest Contracting, said the company had a similar situation last year. Northwest Contracting had an employee going through behavioral health treatment. The employee went to work first thing in the morning and then had to go to treatment immediately. Northwest Contracting offered the same job and the same duties when the employee came back. “We’re willing to work with them if they want to seek the treatment, if they want to better themselves,” Schmaltz said.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

CHI St. Alexius Health offers an Employee Assistance Program that businesses can contract in order to provide services to their employees. The Employee Assistance Program offers individualized counseling on mental health issues, stress, emotional issues, workplace issues, addiction problems, grief, family loss, and martial counseling. In addition to serving Bismarck-Mandan, the program has counselors who travel to Dickinson, Minot, Hettinger, Hazen, Rolla, Harvey, and Ft. Yates. Myron Cullen is Director of the Employee Assistance Program for CHI St. Alexius Health. “We consider our program to be a comprehensive program that is designed to support individual employees with mental health, workplace or addiction problems,” Cullen said. Employees can contact the program directly, and can gain access to counseling services confidentially. On the managerial side, Cullen said the program educates supervisors on how to manage someone dealing with behavioral health issues. For companies contracting with the Employee Assistance Program, Cullen said they sometimes see trends. He said they can see when a company is in trouble. If a company is going through a reorganization, they will see an uptick in counseling services during that time.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, for a typical worksite of 25 North Dakota employees you will find: • 16 are overweight or obese • 13 have two or more risk factors for heart disease • 7 have high cholesterol • 6 binge-drink • 5 smoke • 4 have high blood pressure • 4 get no leisure time physical activity • 3 have had a heart attack or stroke or have been diagnosed with heart disease • 1 has diabetes What steps can a business take? Pamela Sagness is the Director of Behavioral Health Division for North Dakota Department of Human Services. Chamber Connection asked her what steps a business can take to create good policies for behavioral health. 1. Build a behavioral health-friendly environment. Be non-judgmental, be empathetic, and use terminology that is not offensive. 2. Have opportunities for early intervention. Have policies and conversations around early intervention and not judgment or punishment. 3. Offer flexible employment options for an employee undergoing treatment for substance abuse disorder. If an employee needs to leave for a month for treatment, consider holding the job for the employee when he or she returns. Prevention works 72% – The majority (72%) of North Dakota Adults believe alcohol and other drug prevention programs are a good investment because they save lives and money. Source: Behavioral Health Division, North Dakota Department of Human Services.

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FEATURE “If your (Employee Assistance Program) is working with your safety program, your occupational medicine program, if they’re involved with these things, there seems to be a better return on investment for all aspects when you have an Employee Assistance Program involved,” Cullen said.

FACE IT TOGETHER

Community Options provides services to individuals with physical or mental disabilities. Kevin Iverson is Vice President for Administrative Services at Community Options. The organization offers an Employee Assistance Program.

Chamber Connection spoke with Tim Ryan, Director of Business Development for Face It Together in Sioux Falls. “Our missions is to get drug and alcohol addiction sufferers well,” Ryan said. “We provide free peer-to--peer addiction management coaching.”

“I think it comes back to the mission that Bryan Wetsch, the owner of the company, had — to help individuals meet the challenges they face and provide them with a path to being active in their community and be an individual in their community so that they can stand on their own two feet,” Iverson said. “That same mentality carries over to our employees. How we can help our employees be successful is, I think, one of the company goals.”

Face It Together monitors addiction recovery using their recovery capital index. It’s the main tool the organization uses to measure if an individual is getting well. The index measures cultural capital, personal capital, and societal capital.

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Face It Together offers addiction services that complement Employee Assistance Programs. Face It Together was founded in Sioux Falls, S.D. It recently expanded to Bismarck-Mandan, with Jennifer Horning as the director.

“Addiction is a chronic disease,” Ryan said. “In most cases unfortunately, it’s treated like an acute disease. People are often sent to treatment for 30 days, and then they’re done. It’s a chronic disease like diabetes that they need to learn to manage.”

www.bismarckmandan.com Ryan said stigma and shame are the top barriers to a person seeking treatment. “If you are, sick people send you a get well card,” Ryan said. “If you are sick with addiction, people send you a ‘get sober now card.’” Face It Together provides training to workplaces. Ryan said they are trying to get people to be more empathetic toward the disease. They train managers how to deal with someone with addiction. “We are trying and have been successful in changing the culture of these workplaces so that if you have a chronic disease, it will be treated as a chronic disease, and you won’t be fired,” Ryan said. Before Ryan joined Face It Together, he owned his own business in Sioux Falls. His business was a distributor for pet grooming supplies.

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Ryan said his business went from seven employees to 55 employees within a two-year period. In all-out sprint, he said the first thing to go was the focus on people. Suddenly, he had three employees quit abruptly or stop showing up. Later, when an individual approached Ryan to say they had a drinking problem, Ryan had no idea what to do. “As a business owner you never not want to have an answer,” Ryan said. Ryan’s company began offering the services of Face It Together. Ryan had an employee, whom he described as his most valuable employee. The employee worked in global sourcing, spoke fluent Mandarin Chinese, and was willing to work at 3 a.m. The employee told Ryan she needed to quit. Her son was suffering from substance use disorder, he was on the streets, and he was going to jail. “She was at that point where most loved ones get when the disease is in full cycle; she was expecting a phone call to come identify a body,” Ryan said. “As a team, we were able to help. It’s one thing to (talk), but it’s another thing to be able to offer real help. It changes the conversation from human capital back to human beings.”

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FEATURE

BUSINESS VOLUNTEERS BRING JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT TO THE CLASSROOM

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

To parents of school-age children, there is a familiar pattern to how much a child talks about school. When they are young they may talk a lot as they are bubbling with excitement. As they get older, it may get harder and harder for parents to pull answers from children. Erin Hill-Oban, the new District Manager for Junior Achievement in Bismarck-Mandan, recently gave a presentation on Junior Achievement at NISC. One of the employees in the room spoke about having a child in the program. “When kids reach the age when they’re asked what’s going on at school, (parents) don’t get a response,” Oban said. “That’s different with Junior Achievement. (Kids) want to talk about their experiences in the program. That’s the impact that the program has.” Junior Achievement of Bismarck-Mandan is now an independent program, part of Junior Achievement of the Upper Midwest. In the 2017-2018 school year, the program will reach more than 3,400 students in 163 classrooms.

First graders from Nicole Nodland’s class at Northridge Elementary work on a Junior Achievement lesson taught by community volunteer Renae Orstad.

Junior Achievement has programs at public elementary schools in Bismarck and Mandan as well as private institutions such as Catholic schools, Shiloh Christian School and Theodore Jamerson Elementary School at United Tribes Technical College. Junior Achievement also has programs in Bismarck-Mandan at the middle school and high school levels. The Junior Achievement curriculum is based around three pillars: financial literacy, entrepreneurship and career and college readiness. All curricula from kindergarten through high school will touch on those pillars according to LaChelle Williams, Senior Vice President of Operations for Junior Achievement of the Upper Midwest. “In third grade, they have the opportunity to live out the life of running a restaurant,” Williams said. “They are hiring staff. They have to balance a checking account. They understand it at an elementary level. “When they are in eighth grade, they are assuming a job position, so they might be a graphic designer making $40,000 a year with two children and a spouse. They have to make 18 budget decisions that you and I would have to make.”

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8 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com At the high school level, Junior Achievement’s flagship program is the JA Company Program. The program is a 14-week course in which students divide into groups and create their own businesses. Students come up with a business plan and create a product line or service. They have to find investors. Students determine as a company what they want to do with their profits including saving, spending or donating. They manage the company all the way through liquidation at the end. JA Company Program is at Legacy High School and St. Mary’s Central High School in Bismarck. At SMCHS, one group is selling bath bombs. Oban said the group had to learn about regulations on their product in the real world. “They have learned there are restrictions on what we can do, because (Junior Achievement) insures these companies,” Oban said. “They wanted to make (bath bombs) themselves. There are restrictions on things that can cause allergic reaction such as food or (skin) products. Initially, they were denied their application for the idea. They decided to stick with the idea and pre-purchase these bath bombs and sell them.” At the end of JA Company Program, the high schoolers’ companies are liquidated. However, Junior Achievement gives them the option opening their own LLC based on their company. “They’ll understand their level of grit and perseverance,” Williams said. “Running a business is never easy, but it is something they can absolutely succeed in.” Katie Anderson, Agency Manager for Bismarck Motor Company Insurance, has been volunteering this year with a third grade classroom at Northridge Elementary in Bismarck. “I think it’s really important that kids learn different things going on in our city, how to manage money, and financial literacy,” Anderson said. “When I was in school, I always thought it was so cool having someone else come in. I really, really enjoyed it and I’ll definitely do it again.” Oban said the volunteers who teach Junior Achievement bring professional and life experience to the lessons. “More and more in the education community and business community we’re hearing the need for both soft skills and a better understanding and readiness to enter the workforce,” Oban said. “What Junior Achievement offers is the ability to match up those two worlds.”

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Chamber Connection | 9

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Backr row, left to right – Dean Kadramas, Dj Wallace, Mike Rauser, Josh Boehm, Chris Smith, Mike Emineth, Aaron Sebastian. Front row, left to right - Ben Grinsteiner, Michelle Brennise, Carol Stork, Bill (Coyote)Stork, April Starkweather, Jennifer Lyon, Kelly Gehring.

MEMBER PROFILE Featuring Bill & Carol Stork

ROUGHRIDER HARLEY-DAVIDSON

Q: Tell us about yourself and your role within the organization. A: I spent 27 years working in the automobile industry in Rapid City and Pierre SD. In 2007, my wife Carol and I sold our Ford/Toyota dealership in Pierre, SD. We moved our family here with intention to buy out my parents. In 2013, they said, “we are ready to sell.” The process started and by March 1, 2014 the sale was complete. After racing motorcycles for over 40 years, this is a natural fit for me.

Q: Briefly tell us the history of Roughrider HarleyDavidson. A: Roughrider Harley –Davidson formerly Midway Harley-Davidson opened in 1976. In 2000, the owner of Midway Harley-Davidson built the new building at the current location, 3708 Memorial Highway. My parents Bill and Marge Stork bought the Harley-Davidson dealership in 2002. It was renamed Roughrider HarleyDavidson at that time. 10 | Chamber Connection

Q: How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted Roughrider Harley-Davidson? A: Our sales numbers hit an all-time high in 2014. I am sure that increase was fueled by the growth in the Bismarck-Mandan area. Q: What industry trends are taking place? A: Motorcycle ridership is declining. Our biggest customer base comes from the Baby Boomer generation. This core customer segment is now aging. Now our challenge is to grow the sport of motorcycling. We will be focused on reaching young adults and training a new generation of riders. Q: Have there been any monumental changes in the industry that you’ve had to deal with? A: Our product is always evolving. In just a few short years, we have an all new engine and frame design. There have been several advances in high tech electronics with audio and navigation systems.

www.bismarckmandan.com Q: What does the future of Roughrider HarleyDavidson look like and the industry as a whole look like to you? A: The future looks promising. We have a stable local economy. The oil production is picking up. The percentage of North Dakota population that ride motorcycles is strong. We have a very capable and experienced staff. With all that on our side, were excited for the future. Q: Roughrider Harley-Davidson became a member in 2003, why do you continue to renew each year? A: We believe there is strength in numbers. It will only benefit us to be connected to other local business. The Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus is on growth in the Bismarck-Mandan area. That will benefit the business community. Q: What should Chamber members know about Roughrider Harley-Davidson that may assist them? A: Our experienced staff can help you with any questions you might have. We have many different two and three wheeled models to choose from. They will focus on helping you make the right buying decision. The approach is the same with our MotorClothes, Parts & Accessories, and Service Department. To become a Harley-Davidson owner is to become part of a very large family. The Harley-Davidson Owner Group (HOG) is the largest motorcycle club in the world. There are 625 dealers in the United States. Harley-Davidson is the only American made brand to be in business for 115 consecutive years.

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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER ROSS!

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The BismarckMandan Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Ross Frohlich as the organization’s new Membership Director. Born and raised in Mandan, Frohlich’s roots run deep throughout our communities.

CHAMBER AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE PLANTS SEED This past February, the Chamber’s Agricultural Committee, in partnership with Farm Credit Services of Mandan, kicked off their Ag Awareness program with their first installment of Planting the Seed: ND Agriculture and its Impact on Bismarck-Mandan. Guests were invited to hear from Deputy Commissioner for the ND Department of Agriculture, Thomas Bodine, as he went through the economic impact our Ag Industry has on North Dakota. Details of the industry, such as, how it supports almost 25% of our states workforce; or how North Dakota is the national leader in spring/durum wheat, canola, flaxseed, honey, and of course sunflowers amongst many others.

Ross Frohlich

Frohlich’s background is diverse, including warehouse management, phlebotomy, clinical research, skilled laborer recruitment and most recently electrical sales. “My experiences have allowed me to see not only the wide array of talent and industries that we have in Bismarck-Mandan, but also what opportunities could be developed,” said Frohlich. “I believe the Chamber is the perfect place to help cultivate ideas and assist in supporting these new opportunities.” Frohlich lives in Mandan with his wife, two daughters and their dog, Otis. In his free time, he enjoys watching his daughter play soccer, camping, riding motorcycle and being on the water.

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These luncheons have been designed to help educate the Bismarck-Mandan community on the importance of Agriculture, and how prominent North Dakota is in the overall Ag Industry. Thank you to iHeart Media and K-FYR Radio for allowing this program to take place during their 41st Annual Agri International Tradeshow! For information on upcoming Ag Awareness programs, or the next installment of Planting the Seed, please contact the chamber, 701-223-5660, or email, dleingang@bismancc.com. Program Sponsor:

Thomas Bodine addresses guests at Ag committee luncheon on February 6th.

www.bismarckmandan.com

CHAMBER RECOGNIZES TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce has officially closed its window for nominations and letters of support for the 2018 Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award!

For 31 years, educators in Bismarck and Mandan have been receiving the Crystal Apple, a symbol for outstanding passion and accomplishment in the teaching field. Five winners of the Crystal Apple will be selected by the Excellence in Business and Education Committee, and are awarded at special surprise events. Those five awards go to a primary educator in both Bismarck and Mandan, a secondary educator in both BismarckMandan, and an individual from higher education institutions from around our area. This year we would like to recognize: Rose Hetzel – Red Trail Elementary Mary Kautzman – Mary Stark Elementary Katie Babcock – Sunrise Elementary Olivia Becker – Rita Murphy Elementary Kendall Bergrud – Lincoln Elementary Amanda Bettger – Rita Murphy Elementary Ellen Eckroth – Prairie Rose Elementary Jennifer Ellertson – Lincoln Elementary Shelly Feeney – Dorothy Moses Elementary Desiree Johnson – Jeannette Myhre Elementary Doris McKay – Liberty Elementary Justin Miller – Pioneer Elementary Julie Seifert – Shiloh Christian School Jann Andring – Mandan High School Lindsey Bauer – Mandan High School Thai Haggin – Mandan Middle School Shawna Huber – Mandan Middle School Melissa Long – Mandan Middle School Randi Fuchs – Shiloh Christian School Sara Kincaid – Legacy High School Dan Seifert – Shiloh Christian School Dr. John Tufte – Legacy High School Cory Volk – South Central High School Dayna Zins – Wachter Middle School Bradley Anderson – Bismarck State College Joe Ellefson – Bismarck State College Matt Frohlich – Bismarck State College Dr. Heather Lundeen – University of Mary Dr. Margaret Nordlie – University of Mary Jaylia Prussing – University of Mary Todd Seibel – Bismarck State College Dr. Karel Sovak – University of Mary

The Chamber and its Excellence Committee would like to thank Spartan Nash/Dan’s Supermarket for their support in recognizing and honoring our teachers! If you are interested in learning more about the Teacher of the Year award, and or how your organization can help us recognize these educators, please call the Chamber, 701-223-5660, or contact David Leingang, dleingang@bismanncc.com. Presenting Sponsor:

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COMMUNITY GATHERS FOR ANNUAL ECONOMIC OUTLOOK FORUM On Thursday, March 15th, the BismarckMandan Chamber of Commerce along with Starion Bank and University of Mary hosted our 6th annual Economic Outlook Forum at the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center in Bismarck, ND.

Entrepreneurship Panel

Over 280 members attended our half-day forum. We started the morning with a warm breakfast Dr. Karel Sovak Dr. Ernie Goss and a great invocation from Dr. Karel Sovek, Associated Professor of Business with Reverend Lester Wolfgram from Crisis Care Chaplaincy. the University of Mary, followed with the reveal of our Opening the forum, Lee Weisbeck, Bismarck-Mandan survey results from the local business community. Topics Market President with Starion Bank, introduced our highlighted were business changes from 2014 – 2017, Entrepreneurship Panel with our moderator, Stacey expected changes for 2018. Our results are posted online Thomas of Specialized Cleaning & Restoration Inc. The at bismarckmandan.com and starionbank.com. You individuals on this panel were Dr. Leah Brady, DDS, can also receive a publication with more details at the Ideal Image Dentistry & Spa; Edgar Oliveira, owner of Chamber office. Harvest Brazilian Grill; Tana Trotter, CEO of Proximal 50; and Justin Walsh, CTO and Co-Founder of CoSchedule. The closing keynote. Ernie Goss, Ph.D., MacAllister Chair One of the main topics that stood out in this session is & Professor of Economics Creighton University, covered the challenges they face when starting a business in the topics on inflation, interest rates, and tax reforms in his state of North Dakota. The panelist all agreed without presentation titled “The Regional Economy – Black Swans the support from their family and friends it would not be & Golden Geese” with strong emphasis focused on the possible. importance of North Dakota’s agriculture and energybased economy. After a short break, Dave Rogstad, Business Banking Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsors: Manager, SVP with Starion introduced our Industry panel with moderator Shane Goettle, co-owner of Odney. This panel included: Sara Otte Coleman, Director-Tourism Division, North Dakota; Matt Reichert, Broker and Partner, Production Sponsor: Aspen Group LLP; Matt Sagaser, Director of Innovation Accelerated, Doosan Bobcat North America and Garret Senger, Executive VP Regulatory Affairs, Customer Table Sponsors: Service & Gas Supply with Montana Dakota Utilities. Amy Hullet - Century 21 Morrison Realty, Bank of North Dakota, Topics discussed in this session included energy, real Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bismarck-Mandan Home estate, tourism and manufacturing. Along with each of Builders Association, Capital Credit Union, Choice Financial, the panelist giving their thoughts on what 2018 will hold Doosan/Bobcat, First International Bank & Trust, Great River for their industry. 14 | Chamber Connection

Energy, Indigo Signworks, Inc., KX News, Liberty Business Systems, NISC, Starion Bank, United Tribes Technical College, University of Mary.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN:

www.bismarckmandan.com

POLITICS AND FAITH

LEGISLATIVE & POLITICAL INVOLVEMENT The Leadership class convened at the North Dakota State Capitol for Legislative & Political Involvement Day. Bismarck Sen. Dick Dever guided the class through a mock hearing for a bill on concealed carrying of firearms. Dever recruited classmates to testify in favor of the bill and classmates to testify against the bill. The senator walked through how to read and understand the legislative language of the bill. Dever acted as committee chair, and the class acted as members of a House committee. The volunteers testifying for and against the bill acted as members of the general public.

Sen. Dick Dever leads the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class in a mock House committee hearing for Legislative & Political Involvement Day at the North Dakota State Capitol.

FAITH, VALUES & ETHICS The day convened with a panel on “Our Expanding Faith Community.” Dakota Goodhouse represented Native American faith. Goodhouse said he grew up Episcopalian, but the pastor supported those who wished to practice traditional ways such as the annual sun dance. Goodhouse quoted his grandfather who used to say, “We were born Lakota, and we chose to be Christian.” Pastor Craig Schweitzer, pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, represented Christian faith. Good Shepherd is located at Divide Avenue and Washington Street in Bismarck. Schweitzer said when Good Shepherd was founded in 1961, it was on the northern edge of Bismarck, and Divide Avenue was a gravel section line road. In the 9,500 Evangelical Lutheran Churches of America, Good Shepherd is in the top 50 in congregation size. Dr. Nadim Koleilat spoke on behalf of the Muslim faith. Koleilat said Bismarck-Mandan’s Muslim community used to meet for Friday prayers in the basement of CHI St. Alexius Health with four or five participants. The group began meeting in the chapel at CHI St. Alexius and the group increased to 50 people. At that point, the group opened the Bismarck Muslim Community Center, which has a resident imam and a community of 70-80 Muslims.

Joy Wezelman spoke on behalf of the Jewish faith. Wezelman said the Jewish community is shrinking in North Dakota. In the 1930s, the Jewish community founded a formal Bismarck Hebrew Congregation. They built a synagogue. However, the building was eventually sold as the congregation shrunk. That building is now a Christian Church.

OUR MANY THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING: Presenting Sponsor

Gold Sponsor: Program Sponsors: BASIN ELECTRIC POWER COOPERATIVE A Touchstone Energy Cooperative ®

Legislative & Political Involvement Co-Chairs: Jason Anderson — Bank of North Dakota Karie Mischel — Starion Bank

Faith, Valules & Ethics Co-Chairs: Teresa Grothe — Aetna Rev. Gary Heaton — Sanford Health

Breakfast/Lunch Sponsors:

Starion Bank (Media Day) Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (Faith, Values & Ethics) Awesome Two Products (Faith, Values & Ethics) Chamber Connection | 15

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CELEBRATING BISMARCK-MANDAN On September 6th 2018, the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce will honor local businesses and their accomplishments for the 14th annual Celebrate BismarckMandan Award Ceremony.

From now until June 2nd, we will be accepting nominations for the following awards: GRANITE AWARD This award is presented annually to a company that has been in business for at least 50 years, has been a Chamber member for the last five years, and has shown a commitment to the community. NEW ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR Any individual who serves as a majority owner and operates or bears principal responsibility for operating a small business with a 3-year record of accomplishment and not more than 10 years. SMALL BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR Any individual who owns and operates or who bears principal responsibility for operating a small business. Partners who jointly own and operate a small business can be nominated as a “team,” so long as the number of individuals in the team nomination does not exceed four. MIKE FINK AWARD FOR STEADY GROWTH AND PROFITABILITY This award honors small businesses that have been in business for at least 5 years, have shown revenue growth over the last three years by at least 20 percent, and are currently members of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber. GOLDEN EAGLE AWARD The Golden Eagle is awarded to a Chamber member that has displayed a great deal of support for our Armed Forces. Whether it is through employee support, or directly showing appreciation to the military, organizations who feel it’s important to support the military are eligible. Past winners include – Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Burleigh County Senior Adults Program, and Kupper Chevrolet to name a few.

16 | Chamber Connection

Deadline for nominations is end of day, Friday June 1st. You may nominate a qualifying business by going to the Chamber website at www.bismarckmandan.com/pages/ EBEC, or by contacting David Leingang at 701-223-5660 or dleingang@bismancc.com.

www.bismarckmandan.com

REGISTRATION OPENS STUDENT CHAMBER FOR LEMONADE DAY! SPENDS DAY AT CAPITOL Lemonade Day BismarckMandan is around the corner on June 16th and it’s time to register area youth for this Entrepreneurial experience.

BISMARCK-MANDAN

Parents, mentors, teachers and youth leaders are encouraged to register their youth online at http:// bismarckmandan.lemonadeday.org, or call the Chamber of Commerce for more information! Once registered, each participant will get a confirmation email that they are registered. Then head to one of the following Backpack Pickup Locations, beginning April 23rd: • Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce; Monday – Friday from 8am – 5pm • •

Mandan Public Library

Bismarck Public Library

Lemonade Day Bismarck-Mandan will be June 16th; our goal is to register 400 youth who in turn will start new businesses all across Bismarck and Mandan - on a single day. If you are interested in learning more, or have any questions, please contact David at dleingang@ bismancc.com or call the Chamber at 701-223-5660. MAIN SQUEEZE SPONSOR: LIME-LIGHT SPONSORS:

Members of the 2017/2018 Student Chamber spent a day in March at North Dakota’s State Capitol. Thank you to an action packed agenda, put together by MDU Resource’s Cory Fong and KLJ’s Molly Herrington, the Chamber’s Student Board had the opportunity to interact with many state officials. Topics ranged from Internet scams, the opioid crisis with Attorney General, Wayne Stenehjem, to the landscape of education with Superintendent of Public Instruction, Kirsten Baesler. While both had different avenues of conversation, both presenters expressed the concern for our students safety in light of recent school shootings. Discussion on the role of legislature followed with area Representatives Jason Dockter (District 7) and Pat Heinert (District 32), as well as Senators Nicole Poolman and Erin Oban. Students learned the process in making/passing laws as well as how they can begin getting involved in North Dakota politics. Students then heard from Dane Ferguson and Scott McNeil, both Executive Directors for the ND Republican and Democratic parties. Each did a great job of encouraging students to attend each respective convention. To wrap the day up, each student learned the role of Lobbyists and the difference between education and persuasion when it comes to their work. Levi Andrist, Kayle Effertz Kleven, Megan Houn, Carlee McLeod, and Kayla Pulvermacher had good humor to the answers students gave when asked what words they think of when they hear the title “lobbyist.

FRESH SQUEEZE SPONSORS:

With other guest appearances from ND Insurance Commissioner, Jon Godfread, and the YMCA’s Senior Program Director and Youth Government Coordinator, Christy Cameron, the students had one heck of a full day!

LEMON HEAD SPONSORS:

The Chamber would like to thank Montana Dakota Utilities for providing lunch and refreshments for the students.

American Bank Center, Bartlett & West, Dakota Eye Institute, Doosan/Bobcat, Edgewood, Exploring Leadership Soulutions, First Western Bank & Trust, Grand Junction Grilled Subs, Mr. Squeegee Window Cleaning, Northern Improvement Co., University of Mary

OUR MANY THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING: Presenting Sponsor:

Program Sponsors: Carpet Inc.

@bismanlemonadeday twitter.com/BisManLemonDay facebook.com/lemonadedaybismarckmandan

BASIN ELECTRIC POWER COOPERATIVE A Touchstone Energy Cooperative ®

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CHAMBER SPRING MIXER

Date: Tuesday, April 3, 2018 Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center 800 S. 3rd Street, Bismarck Time: 5:00PM - 7:30PM Admission: $5.00 plus a Business Card Gold Sponsor: Join us this month for the 18th Annual Chamber Spring Mixer on Tuesday, April 3rd at the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center. This event runs from 5:00pm – 7:30pm and is open to the community, Chamber members or not; so grab your family, friends and coworkers, and enjoy an evening of awesome networking opportunities, chances to win some great door prizes, hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and visit festive booth exhibits.

18 | Chamber Connection

APRIL MEMBERSHIP MIXER: ELKS LODGE

Date: Thursday, April 12, 2018 Location: Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge 1199 900 S. Washington Street, Bismarck Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend Chamber members are invited to attend April’s Membership Mixer hosted by Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge 1199 at 900 S. Washington Street on Thursday, April 12th from 4:30pm – 6:30pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to network and connect with other Chamber members in the Lodge’s beautiful gathering space! Mixers are free to attend, and anyone that works for a business member is welcome to come network and enjoy some delicious food and refreshments. RSVP’s are appreciated and can be made by emailing David at dleingang@bismancc.com or by contacting the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

www.bismarckmandan.com

MAY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: AMERICAN BANK CENTER

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN FIELD PROJECTS

Date: Thursday, May 10, 2018 Location: American Bank Center 101 E Main Street, Mandan Time: 4:30PM - 6:30PM Admission: Free to Attend

Date: Wednesday, May 16, 2018 Location: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 8:30AM - 12:00PM Admission: Free to Attend

Join members of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce during May’s Membership Mixer hosted by American Bank Center on Thursday, May 10th at their Mandan location; 101 E Main Street in Mandan. Enjoy refreshments, hors d’oeurves, and some business after hours.

Each year the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class breaks into several groups to work on a field project addressing community needs. The class will be presenting this projects Wednesday, May 16th at the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce.

Ex pe rie nc e

A ug m en te d

R ea lit y

Mixers are free for Chamber members to attend. RSVP’s by contacting the Chamber at 701-223-5660.

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LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION

Date: Wednesday, May 23, 2018 Location: Baymont Inn & Suites 2611 Old Red Trail, Mandan Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM Admission: $25.00 Presenting Sponsor: Join us Wednesday, May 23 at Baymont Inn & Suites with the 29th class of leaders as they graduate from the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program. You are invited to attend and celebrate the Class of 2018. Registration and networking begin at 11:30am., lunch and program and noon. Leadership Bismarck-Mandan, Class of 2018: Steven Allard, Kirkwood Bank & Trust Andrea Birst, Glance Spa & Salon Jason Byram, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Tracy DeForest, Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Assoc. Olivia Emmel, North Dakota Process Serving, LLC Landon Feil, Starion Bank Lynnette Horn, Anne Carlson Center Alicia Koenig, Ameriprise Financial Kayla Kraus, BlackRidge Bank Amber Larson, Bartlett & West Daniel Nairn, City of Bismarck Curtis Reule, Montana-Dakota Utilities Tim Sass, Bismarck Police Department Hope Sisk, Odney Tony Spilde, MDU Resources Group Andrea Sutheimer, Sanford Health Jessica Wetsch, Aetna Alison Zarr, Bismarck State College Gold Sponsor: Program Sponsors: BASIN ELECTRIC POWER COOPERATIVE A Touchstone Energy Cooperative ÂŽ

Table Sponsor: Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Assoc. 20 | Chamber Connection

CHAMBER 101: MAXIMIZING YOUR MEMBERSHIP

Date: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Location: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 12:00PM - 1:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Join us Tuesday, May 22nd for our next Chamber 101 presented by BlackRidge Bank. This class is geared towards any new members, existing members looking to get more active, members in new roles or any member looking to maximize your membership. We will have a brief presentation discussing Chamber programs, events, benefits and committees. Then we will be diving into a Q&A session. Space is limited. Please register above or by contacting Dave at dleingang@bismancc.com.

www.bismarckmandan.com AT THE

FRIDAYS AT THE CHAMBER

Date: Friday, June 8, 2018 Location: Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM Admission: Free to Attend Presenting Sponsor: Join fellow members for a fun and informal way to network on one Friday each month this summer from 11:30am - 1:00pm. Chamber staff will serve brats, refreshments and all the fixings. We appreciate our member support, so please accept our small token of appreciation. There is no cost to attend, but free-will donations will be accepted. So come stop by, network, and enjoy some warm summer weather. Please RSVP above or by calling Shay Peterson at 701-223-5660.

CHAMBER GOLF SCRAMBLE

Date: Monday, June 11, 2018 Location: Apple Creek Country Club 8912 County Rd 10, Bismarck Time: 10:30AM - 4:30PM Admission: $175.00 per player

* Includes 18 holes, golf cart, lunch, dinner, driving range and tee prize.

Presenting Sponsor: The Chamber’s Annual Golf Scramble is scheduled for Monday, June 11th at Apple Creek Country Club. There is a limited number of spots available so don’t wait to get registered. It’s $175.00 an individual which includes your golf fee, golf cart, driving range, your lunch and dinner, and an opportunity to win some great door prizes! Registrations starts at 10:30am and shotgun start at 11:30am. There will be plenty of prizes, contests, food and refreshments. So mark your calendars and start thinking about putting your teams together today! Individual registrations are welcome (teams will be assigned). Please contact Shay at 701-223-5660 or email speterson@bismancc.com to register yourself or team.

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CAPITAL CREDIT UNION RECEIVES SBA DIRECTOR’S AWARD Capital Credit Union recently received the 2017 Director’s Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s North Dakota District Office. The credit union has received this award eight times since 2009, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the growth and expansion of small businesses in communities across the state.

In foreground, left to right: Al Haut, district director of SBA North Dakota’s District Office, presents Myron Aune, business services manager, and staff with Director’s Award.

“I appreciate Capital Credit Union’s willingness to make smaller SBA loan guaranties. These small loans help individual entrepreneurs start small businesses that begin to hire employees as they grow larger,” shared Al Haut, district director of SBA North Dakota’s District Office. “Ultimately, these small loans end up having a significant impact in driving our economy.” Reflecting on the department’s success, Business Services Manager, Myron Aune, shared, “We’re fortunate. We’ve got a fantastic department with really, really good people.”

In addition to Aune, the department has employees located at its Main Office in Bismarck as well as its Fargo Branch, making it convenient to serve member businesses located at each end of the state. These employees include: • • • • • • • •

Chris Barry, business services officer, Main Office Misty Benske, business services associate, Main Office Kacie Iglehart, business services associate, Main Office Austin Kahler, business credit analyst, Main Office Brad Shetler, business services officer, Main Office Caryn Warden, business services associate, Main Office Ryan Welder, business credit analyst, Main Office Paul Leier, business services officer, Fargo Branch

CELEBRATE project HOPE WITH US! WEEK OF MAY 7-11, 2018

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Join area businesses in supporting project HOPE, a community wellness event providing awareness about prevalent cancers in North Dakota as well as prevention and wellness information.

project HOPE

A COMMUNITY WELLNESS EVENT BISMARCK CANCER CENTER

2018

GREAT PLAINS FOOD BANK OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ENDING HUNGER 2.0

Focused on identifying long term solutions to hunger, the Great Plains Food Bank officially launched Ending Hunger 2.0 on Wednesday. With the unveiling of the innovative initiative, the Great Plains Food Bank’s work of food recovery and distribution will continue, while Ending Hunger 2.0 will simultaneously work to decrease the need.   For the first time in its 35 year history, the Great Plains Food Bank will begin work to examine methods to reduce food insecurity with the long-term goal of solving hunger in the region. Ending Hunger 2.0 is a fresh approach to ending hunger focused on addressing its root causes through new solutions. Specifically, the program will work to bring sustainable, long term answers to hunger through advocacy, research and community based solutions. The initiative will operate in addition to the work already being done by the Great Plains Food Bank that provides food assistance to more than 97,000 individuals each year. “If food alone was the answer to ending hunger, we would have done it by now,” said Melissa Sobolik, director of Ending Hunger 2.0. “We know it’s going to take more than food to end hunger. Ending Hunger 2.0 will work upstream on a long term approach. We’ll be working with nontraditional partners interested in finding new innovative ideas and solutions to address not only hunger, but its root causes as well.”

www.bismarckmandan.com

CENTURY 21 MORRISON REALTY RECEIVES PRESIDENT’S AWARD Gerald J. Schlosser, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Morrison Realty is pleased to announce that in recognition of its outstanding sales production, CENTURY 21 Real Estate LLC recently honored CENTURY 21 Morrison Realty with the CENTURY 21(r) President’s Award. The annual award is bestowed upon those independent CENTURY 21(r) offices that earn the CENTURY 21 CENTURION(r) award and the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Pinnacle award in the same calendar year.

“Earning significant production in the competitive real estate industry is extraordinary but combining that with top-rated third-party testimonials, now that is CENTURY 21 Morrison Realty; a relentless team of go-getters who will not stop until home buyers’ and sellers’ needs are met,” said Nick Bailey, president and chief executive officer, Century 21 Real Estate LLC. “This is an outstanding honor since only a small percentage of C21(r) franchisees receive this award.” The CENTURION Award is presented to CENTURY 21 offices that achieve or surpass sales production of $2,399,000 or 472 closed transaction sides within a calendar year.

Specifically, Ending Hunger 2.0 will tackle the root causes of hunger through:  • Advocacy: Ending Hunger 2.0 will make efforts to advocate for a strong and accessible nutrition safety net and for legislation that addresses the many factors that contribute to food insecurity. These efforts will target elected officials at the local, state and federal level to change policies and systems to eliminate barriers for those needing food assistance. • Research: Having accurate data and trends will allow Ending Hunger 2.0 to identify needs, gaps in services and highlight successes.  • Community-based solutions: Ending Hunger 2.0 will work one-on-one with communities to identify trends and issues, facilitate conversations, design and implement solutions to hunger and its root causes.    Chamber Connection | 23

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WILLISTON BASIN PETROLEUM CONFERENCE ANNOUNCES KEYNOTES, SPEAKER LINE-UP FOR ITS 2018 CONFERENCE The Williston Basin Petroleum Conference, the largest oil and gas conference focused on the Williston Basin and the Bakken, today announced its keynotes and headlining speakers. The conference will be held May 22-24, 2018 at the Bismarck Event Center in Bismarck, ND.

The WBPC will feature a lineup of more than 40 speakers and presenters, each sharing their insights on the latest issues impacting oil and natural gas development and what the future holds for the Williston Basin. The conference’s extensive speaker line-up includes: J.C. Watts, former U.S. Congressman (R-OK) and now chairman of the J.C. Watts Companies; Miss America Cara Mund; Harold Hamm, CEO of Continental Resources; Greg Hill, president and COO for Hess Corporation; Brad Holly, CEO for Whiting Petroleum; Don Hrap, President of the Lower 48 for ConocoPhillips; Thomas Nusz, CEO for Oasis Petroleum; Mark Pearson, President and CEO for Liberty Resources; Jack Stark, President, Continental Resources; and, other key decision makers and industry experts. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke has also been invited to speak. www.BNCbank.com

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The Conference agenda will look closely at big picture trends, including natural gas capture and infrastructure, Williston Basin breakthrough technologies, energy markets, potential untapped formations, the regulatory environment, and more. “As activity in the Bakken picks up, we will be looking closely at the impending crunch that will be faced by both communities and companies as they look for a skilled and qualified workforce,” said Ness. “After a few years of recovery, our core communities are once again facing a housing shortage as the workforce transitions to a more permanent one. This, however, presents tremendous opportunity for developers who are looking to get in on the next phase of the Bakken, and our panels will help provide the information they need to take advantage of those opportunities.” Another panel will be targeted at investors who may be looking to get involved in the industry. Financial experts will take the stage to share their insights on energy prices, global markets and the Bakken’s contribution to the regional economy and world oil supply. Speakers include: • Neel Kashkari, President, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis;

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24 | Chamber Connection

“The WBPC is the most important conference focused on oil and natural gas development in the state and especially the Bakken and Three Forks,” said Ron Ness, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Council (NDPC), the lead organizer of this year’s conference. “The technologies that helped turn the Bakken into the world-class resource that it is today were discussed here, and the technologies and topics that are discussed this year will help take the Bakken and Williston Basin to the next level.”

• Dr. Edward Lewis Morse, Managing Director and Global Head of Commodities Research at Citigroup Inc., Research Division.

Additional speakers will be announced in coming weeks to round out the WBPC agenda. For more information, visit www.wbpcnd.org.

BSC PARTNERS WITH FRONTIER PRECISION TO EQUIP SURVEYING LAB

Frontier Precision Geospacial Sales Engineer Nathan Kupfer, Frontier Precision CEO and President Dennis Kemmesat, BSC President Larry C. Skogen and BSC Associate Professor of Civil Engineering Technology Dave Sagsveen.

Starting in the fall of 2018 Bismarck State College Engineering Technology students will be trained using only the most up-to-date equipment thanks to a new partnership with a leading regional sales company of surveying technology and equipment. Frontier Precision, a company headquartered in Bismarck with offices in Minnesota, Colorado, Alaska, Montana, Idaho, and Hawaii, has partnered with the BSC Engineering Technology program to equip their surveying lab with state-of-the-art technology and equipment at no cost to BSC each academic year. “This allows us to maintain a modern surveying lab and that would be very difficult for us to do otherwise,” said BSC Associate Professor of Civil Engineering Technology Dave Sagsveen. “This gives us the opportunity to put the newest equipment available in the hands of our students.”

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JLG ARCHITECTS NAMED ONE OF THE MOST ADMIRED COMPANIES IN THE US

JLG Architects has been selected by MSN Money, through BestLife, as one of the 50 most admired companies in the United States. According to BestLife, the designation was drawn from “interviews, local business trade magazines, major outlets like Forbes and Fortunes, and other statistics.”

The MSN Money/BestLife list identified one organization from each of the 50 states. JLG was elected to represent North Dakota, where the firm was founded, and was one of two architecture firms on the list. From MSN Money: “One of Inc’s 50 Best Places to Work, JLG is not only an innovator in architecture, winning several awards for its remarkable designs, but it also donates 1 percent of its billable hours to nonprofits.”

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Each school year BSC students will have access to $100,000 to $150,000 worth of brand new tools and equipment. “We wanted to be able to participate in the education side of the industry,” says Frontier Precision President and CEO Dennis Kemmesat. “We want BSC students to have the opportunity to train with the most advanced technology, giving them an advantage in the field.”

MIDCO WORKS FOR BISMARCK-BURLEIGH PUBLIC HEALTH

Frontier Precision will also provide trainings for students alongside their own employees as a type of mentorship program. Kemmesat, a BSC alumnus, says “I like to stay engaged with BSC and we wanted to partner with them from a community aspect. It’s exciting to introduce new technology to new students.”

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CHILL-N-BOWL RAISES MANDAN PARKS AND MORE THAN $2,200 REC NEWS

Twenty two teams participated in the 10th Annual Young Professionals Network (YPN) Chill N Bowl on Saturday, February 3rd at Midway Lanes.

The event raised a whopping $2,268 through team entry fees, games and a 50/50 raffle, for our 2017-18 non-profit partner, Tracy’s Sanctuary House. The 50/50 raffle was won by YPN member Becca Rattei, who very graciously donated half her winnings back to Tracy’s Sanctuary House. The 10th Annual YPN Chill-N-Bowl Grand Champion winners for the Best Overall Chili and Bowling Score was team Strike a Bowl: featuring Rob Nagle, Shane Johnson, Steven Richard and Dan Gillitzer. Numerous other awards were given out including: Best Bowling Score, Best Chili, Best Costume, Best Team Name and the grand trophy going to Best Overall Chili and Bowling Score.

In February, Mandan Baseball Club received a $10,000 donation from Mandan American Legion Post 40 for the Veterans Memorial Ballpark. The donation will help fund a monument honoring our military and local Veterans at the ballpark. Veterans Memorial Ballpark name will not be compromised and it will always be dedicated to our service members, but funding from the local businesses is important to ensure it stays this way. Other Veterans Memorial Ballpark sponsorship opportunities include naming rights to the various areas of the ballpark including dugouts, press box, locker rooms, umpire room, seating, storage and grandstands and are also available throughout the ballpark. The Mandan Park Board approved the naming rights for the Dacotah Centennial Park Soccer Field, now officially named Dakota Community Bank & Trust Soccer Field, on Wednesday, February 14. The agreement includes official naming rights of the high school competitive field and high school crow’s nest structure in exchange for $125,000. Mandan Girls Soccer Boosters secured the sponsorship with Dakota Community Bank & Trust along with a contribution from Mandan Public School and the Mandan Park District each in the amount of $10,000. Mandan Park District will develop a timeline of construction that meets weather conditions and coordinate the construction project.

26 | Chamber Connection

www.bismarckmandan.com

“WE ARE MESSENGERS” CONCERT TO BENEFIT THE BISMARCK CANCER CENTER FOUNDATION

Christian music band We Are Messengers will bring their tour to Bismarck on April 12th at Bismarck Community Church in Bismarck. Proceeds from this concert benefit the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation. The Foundation provides financial support and assistance to ease the burden and stress cancer has on patients and their families. All donations stay local and help make a meaningful difference to patients by funding programs that assist the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. “We are pleased to have this tour come to Bismarck,” said Amy Gross, Executive Director of the Bismarck Cancer Center. We are especially delighted to have the opportunity to bring some of the best Christian music artists to our city and to have this venue as a meaningful way of providing help for area cancer patients.”

Seeing lives radically transformed with the desire to serve God is the heartbeat behind We are Messengers. Since their debut release in 2016, the band received BMA Dove Award nomination for the 2017 New Artist of the Year. The band’s lead single, “Everything Comes Alive”, became a Top 5 hit and one of the fastestgrowing radio singles. Joining We are Messengers for the concert are David Dunn and JJ Weeks.

The concert starts at 7:00pm on April 12th at Bismarck Community Church, with a meet and great session with the band before the concert beginning at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 and meet and greet tickets are available for an extra $10. Tickets are now on sale and available at the Bismarck Cancer Center, the Rainbow Shop, and online at itickets.com.

MARIE BITTNER BISMARCK 701-255-5565

RYAN HARTJE BISMARCK 701-255-5562

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CHOICE FINANCIAL HOLDINGS, INC. TO ACQUIRE TWIN CITIES-BASED VENTURE BANK Choice Financial Holdings, Inc. is pleased to announce that pending regulatory approval, it has entered into an agreement to acquire Venture Bank, a bank specializing in business banking with four locations in the Minneapolis area including Bloomington, Golden Valley, Eagan and Roseville. Choice Financial Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of Choice Financial Group (“Choice Financial”), a community bank with 19 locations in 17 communities in both North Dakota and Minnesota. This partnership will mark Choice Financial’s first expansion into the Twin Cities market and the combined banks will have approximately $2 billion in total assets.

“It’s such a unique opportunity to be able to partner with an organization that in so many ways is similar to our own. From our shared PeopleFirst approach that focuses on partnering with local businesses to our belief in employee-focused values that better the places we live,” says Brian L. Johnson, CEO at Choice Financial.

“In addition to our cultural alignments, we have similar performance records as strong and fast-growing community banks, and we share a vision for growth and financial strength.” “This partnership allows us to diversify and grow,” says Deb Eiseman, Choice Financial Bismarck President. “Many of us have family and friends in the Minneapolis area who we are excited to be able to serve in person. And even as we expand into a new market, our core values remain the same. Our PeopleFirst culture will continue to drive our decisions and how we treat people in our Bismarck community and beyond.” As part of this transaction, Choice Financial is also pleased to announce that it has secured commitments for over $100 million in capital locally to help finance the transaction. “We continue to be committed to North Dakota and the communities we serve,” says Johnson. “We are proud that 100% of funding will come from local investors in our communities and that they share our vision for growth.”

EIDE LIKE I’D LIKE PERSONAL SERVICE AND ACCESS TO RESOURCES

Eide Bailly’s national-firm resources and small-firm approach to service ensure you receive the solutions you need, when you need them. Our services go beyond tax and audit, too. From technology consulting, to valuation and estate planning, we can help you make business decisions with confidence.

What inspires you, inspires us. 701.255.1091 | eidebailly.com 28 | Chamber Connection

KLJ RECEIVES PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARD

KLJ was awarded with the North Dakota Society of Professional Engineers Chapter 3 Project of the Year while Tom Neigum was awarded with the Bruce Nelson Distinguished Service Award

KLJ is proud to announce that our team has been awarded the North Dakota Society of Professional Engineers Chapter 3 Project of the Year. In addition, Tom Neigum, an engineer with KLJ, has been awarded the Bruce Nelson Distinguished Service Award.

Our team was awarded the Chapter 3 Project of the Year for the work completed on the Starion Sports Complex in Mandan, ND. The complex was built on approximately 25 acres to provide the Mandan Park District with two ice rinks, a gymnastics facility, an outdoor football field, with running track and field events, and a practice field. The team helped with site research, plot the property and completing the site design. We also ensured all underground systems were not disturbed and designed a roadway to the new complex that allowed traffic to flow smoothly in and out of the parking lot. As the original project neared completion, the team completed the Old Red Trail roadway design in front of the sports complex for the City of Mandan, creating a safer route to exit and enter the complex. Brad Krogstad served as the project manager. Tom Neigum received the Bruce Nelson Distinguished Service Award. This award is the most prestigious award given by NDSPE Chapter 3 and is voted on by chapter officers. The award recognizes excellence in and dedication to the engineering profession, NDSPE, and the community. Neigum has been with KLJ since 1995 and is a registered PE in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, and Wyoming.

www.bismarckmandan.com

ODNEY WINS 11 ADDY AWARDS

At the 2017 North Dakota American Advertising Federation (AdFed) ADDY awards held February 23 in Fargo, Odney earned a total of 11 awards including six top honors. The People’s First Award Best in Public Service went to Odney’s campaign for the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). Odney’s integrated brand campaign for First Western Bank & Trust (FWBT) earned a Gold ADDY, the top local campaign award given at the 2018 award ceremony. Odney also won Gold ADDY awards for their work for North Dakota Tourism and for our work for EGO Soap Company. “It is both humbling and invigorating to earn these awards this year from North Dakota AdFed, particularly the People’s First Award for best in public service,” said Pat Finken, Odney president. “While our first priority is helping our clients achieve their marketing and advertising goals, it is always nice to earn recognition for a job well done. Our team of professionals works very hard to ensure our clients have access to the best research, creative, media mix, and important trends. We are honored every day to do the work that we do.”

INTERNET & NETWORKING DATA CENTER PHONE CABLE TV ADVERTISING

MIDCO WORKS FOR H.A. THOMPSON & SONS

Chamber Connection | 29

COMMUNITY

NEWS

ASK-A-PRO

Perks

Ask a Pro with

with

CASSIE STAIGER-JETER

Bismarck • Mandan, ND 58554 701-751-7060

JASON HANLON

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

Q: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT Q: CAN I MAKE MY DREAM REFURBISHING AN OLD VACATION AN AFFORDABLE STRUCTURE: VACATION? A: There are Dream Vacations and there A: When refurbishing an older are Affordable Vacations. My job is to combine the two. If you have your heart set on a specific destination but budget could be an issue the trick is in the timing. Let’s send you during off-season or the months surrounding peak season so that you can enjoy the combination of low hotel/resort rates, local weather and quieter hot spots. Since air and hotel rates ebb and flow with travel demands there is a good chance we can find you lower airfare and hotel or hopefully both! This option holds true to most all destinations such as Disney, cruises, all inclusive Mexico and Caribbean destinations, Europe…. the list goes on.

I know we are barely into 2018, however, we’re already finding great rates for January of next year and Fall/early Winter travel is pricing out wonderfully. If a vacation is your horizon make sure to give us a call!

30 | Chamber Connection

structure, you will want to know the general conditions of multiple building components. One component that can dictate the extent of what can be done in the building is the floor structure and its loading capacity. Load capacity determination is not the same from structure to structure. The answers can be found by utilizing the expertise of an engineering and testing firm who specializes in evaluating structures. Evaluations can range from taking existing historical documents and comparing them with the as-built conditions, taking samples of building material back to a lab to perform mechanical testing to “reverse” engineer the floor structure, and performing full-scale load tests on the structure. If the capacities determined do not meet certain requirements that are desired, the results from the analysis and testing will be beneficial in developing construction details for rehabilitation and will help identify the economic feasibility of the extent of rehabilitation. This type of assessment is very beneficial for buildings in areas that are undergoing a “rebirth” to repurpose or revitalize commercial or multi-use districts.

DR. KREOFSKY

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

Q: I AM A 22-YEAR OLD MALE COLLEGE STUDENT AND I HAVE A NODULE ON MY TESTICLE. COULD THIS BE CANCER? A: Although testicular cancer is less

common compared to other cancers, it is the most common cancer in males ages between 15 and 40 years old. Men with testicular cancer may experience a variety of symptoms, but remember these symptoms may not mean it’s cancer. Symptoms may include: • Painless lump in either testicle (*most common). The tumor may be about the size of a pea or a marble, but it can grow much larger • Discomfort in a testicle or scrotum

• Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum • Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin • Sudden buildup of fluid in the scrotum

• Lower back pain, shortness of breath, chest pain, and phlegm • Swelling of 1 or both legs

In most cases, the individual finds the cancer themselves. Sometimes, it is discovered by doctors during a routine physical exam or noticed by a sexual partner. Fortunately, with modern treatment practices, testicular cancer is highly curable, even when found in advanced stages. Anyone who notices an unusual nodule or mass of testicle(s) should see their healthcare provider.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Ask a Pro with

with

BREA ZINS

120 W Thayer, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-751-6477

Q: IS NOW THE RIGHT TIME TO BUY? ARE INTEREST RATES GOING TO RAISE? A: If you are in the market to buy a

home, this is a great time to start your process. First and foremost it is spring and so many people are toying with the idea of upgrading, selling, buying-so the inventory definitely increases this time of year. After our long North Dakota winters, spring cleaning isn’t just for the hallway closet! In our area, when the sun starts shining we all start to think of warmer weather and all of the bbq’s we want to have in our back yard. So this is a great time to list and sell your home AND to start the buying process. Second, interest rates are starting to rise. And even though it maybe only a half of a percent, that could increase your payment on your home. Leaving you with a few options, either buy a more inexpensive home or save more for a down payment. According to Realtor. com®, one example: “On a $300,000 house with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and 20 percent down payment, the difference between a 4 percent and 5 percent mortgage rate is $142 a month. Calculated over the life of the loan, that is more than an extra $51,000.”

STEVE KELSCH

1661 Capitol Way, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-250-9400

Q: SHOULD I LET 3RD PARTY VENDORS PLUG EQUIPMENT INTO MY NETWORK? A: At times, the vendors you work with

such as the security camera pros, or the HVAC pros have equipment that needs an internet connection to take advantage of some of the functionality of their systems. The easiest way to get that connectivity is to just plug into your existing network. The problem lies in the fact that nobody is generally in charge to make sure that security patches are being taken care of on this equipment. Allowing them to connect directly to your network has the potential of causing major problems down the road.

Think of the Target breach—Target, who spends millions on network security every year, was hacked because an HVAC system was plugged directly into their network. This allowed a back door for hackers to get in. Though it is usually not feasible to purchase a separate internet connection just for these vendors, there are fairly inexpensive options that allow you to maintain your network security while giving them the access they need. It involves segmenting your network into two or more sections giving your vendors access to what they To avoid loosing out on the home of your need and blocking them from what they dreams, first find a realtor who can point don’t. Things like your network servers or workstations. It requires additional you in the direction on a great lender to planning and configuration up front, but work with. Then you can make sure you it could avoid a potential future disaster. are pre-approved and know your exact budget, and when your agent calls you with the perfect home-your ready and prepared to buy!

JENIFER McGREGOR

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

Q: IS PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING A NECESSITY IN TODAY’S WORKPLACE? A: Drug use is a common issue in

today’s workplace. Over 70 percent of substance users are employed and need to maintain employment to support their substance use. Employers need to take a pro-active approach to address the problem. Establishing a pre-employment drug screening program is the first step to success. When an employer promotes a drug-free workplace and preemployment drug testing, employees know in advance that substance use is not tolerated. Some employers actively promote their drug test to deter people who use substances from applying. If someone still takes the pre-employment test, the person is taking significant risk that could affect current and future employment opportunities. Once pre-employment testing is established, adding random, postaccident and reasonable suspicion testing is recommended. Additional focus should be placed on supervisor and employee education to ensure everyone understands his or her responsibility in keeping the workplace substance free.

Chamber Connection | 31

COMMUNITY

CHAMBER Perks Great North Dakota Chamber Names Spencer New President and CEO

The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) is pleased to announce that Arik Spencer has Arik Spencer been selected as GNDC’s new President & CEO. The Board of Directors approved the selection after the organization conducted an extensive nationwide search. Spencer is currently executive vice president of the North Dakota Motor Carriers Association (NDMCA), which represents North Dakota’s trucking industry. He will begin his new duties with GNDC on April 1. Spencer joins GNDC with extensive experience in public policy, business advocacy, organizational management, and state government. Prior to joining the NDMCA in 2013, Spencer spent seven years with the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, where he worked on public policy issues impacting the state’s recreational industry and program development and event management. His experience in state government easily translated into his effectiveness as NDMCA executive vice president where he has focused on promoting common sense transportation legislation that lessens regulatory burdens without sacrificing highway safety, increased transportation funding, workforce development, and reasonable taxation.

32 | Chamber Connection

ASK-A-PRO

NEWS

PERKS

MDU Resources Board of Directors Elects Dennis W. Johnson as Vice Chair

The board of directors of MDU Resources Group, Inc. announced that it has elected director Dennis W. Johnson, 68, to the position of vice chair for the corporation. Johnson has been an independent director Dennis Johnson of MDU Resources since 2001 and chairs the Audit Committee. Johnson has more than 40 years of experience in business management and finance. He has held chairman, president and CEO positions with TMI Corp., headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota, for 35 years. He also served as president of the Dickinson City Commission from 2000 to 2015 and as a director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis from 1993 to 1998. He has served on numerous industry, state and community boards and advisory committees. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering and a master’s degree in industrial engineering from North Dakota State University. He and his wife reside in Dickinson.

Meltzer Earns Million Dollar Round Table Distinction

Rob Meltzer of the Dakotas Business Center of Principal Financial Group®, has earned membership in the prestigious Rob Meltzer Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT). Meltzer is a six-year qualifier. Achieving membership in MDRT is a distinguishing career milestone, attained only by those who have demonstrated exceptional professional knowledge, expertise and client service. The Round Table’s membership represents the top life insurance and financial service professionals worldwide.

Anderson and Uhlich Earn Promotions

Precision Wood Finish, a Division of The Painters Inc., is proud to announce that Michael Anderson has been promoted to Division Manager Michael Anderson for Precision Wood Finish. Prior to this position Anderson worked in our facility as a team leader. Anderson has five years of previous experience as a Forman with a local mill shop/lumber yard. Anderson is responsible for the overall production and management Ella Uhlich of our facility. Anderson graduated from BSC with an AS Degree in Computer Science and has lived in the Bismarck/Mandan area since 1999. The Painters Inc. is proud to announce that Ella Uhlich has been promoted to Office Manager for The Painters Inc/Precision Wood Finish. Prior to this position Uhlich was the Administrative Assistant to the President and Business Manager for two years. In this new roll Uhlich will be responsible for scheduling estimates and projects, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Fleet Management and Customer Relations. Uhlich came to The Painters Inc with ten years of experience at a local hospitality/ rental company. Uhlich is a native of Bismarck and graduated from BSC with an AS Degree in Information Processing.

Bianco Realty Sales Awards

Bianco Realty has named Shirley Thomas and Amber Sandness “REALTORS® of the Month”! Thomas and Sandness had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty for the month of February 2018. Thomas has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Sandness has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2010.

www.bismarckmandan.com Capital Credit Union Promotions Misty Benske was recently

promoted to business services associate at Capital Credit Union. In this role, she will deliver products and services to the credit union’s business members and administer Misty Benske existing portfolios while assisting business loan officers in all phases of processing and servicing of commercial loans. Erin Luedtke was recently promoted to processing specialist at Capital Credit Union. In this role, she will process, review, and maintain Erin Luedtke loan and new account documents, and titles and related documents. Kirsten Solway was recently promoted to contact center representative at Capital Credit Union. In this role, she will assist members over the phone or through Live Chat online Kirsten Solway with general questions, account opening, and loan processing. Kayla Hardy was recently promoted to senior human resources specialist at Capital Credit Union. In this role, she will act as a lead in administering activities related to all aspects of human Kayla Hardy resources including recruitment and staffing, benefits administration, employee relations, recordkeeping and regulatory compliance. She’ll also serve as a resource to managers and staff on human resources related topics and as a project lead to other Kelly Nagel department staff. Kelly Nagel was recently promoted to human resources specialist at Capital Credit Union. Nagel has been with Capital Credit Union since 2008, serving as executive assistant, a role she will continue to fulfill in addition to her new duties. Tiffany Lacher Tiffany Lacher was recently promoted to universal services associate at Capital Credit Union’s Main Office. In this role, she will serve new and existing members with account maintenance and loan applications. Lacher was voted Best Teller honorable mention in the Bismarck Tribune’s 2017 Best of the Best Awards.

Sanford Health Welcomes New Nurse Practitioners Tanya Guthmiller, FNP, pain

management, recently joined Sanford Seventh & Rosser Clinic in Bismarck. As a family nurse Tanya Guthmiller practitioner, she will be seeing patients by appointment for back and neck pain, nerve pain, spasticity, intrathecal pump therapies and phantom pain. Guthmiller graduated from the University of Mary in Bismarck with her masters in nursing practice. Whitney Mariner Whitney Mariner, FNP, cardiology, recently joined Sanford Clinic in Bismarck. She will be working as the cardiac heart failure nurse practitioner with the Sanford Heart team in Bismarck, specializing in cardiology and cardiovascular disease, including heart failure. Mariner graduated from the University of Cincinnati with her masters in nursing.

Ver Helst Joins Housing Finance Agency Kayla Ver Helst has joined the

North Dakota Housing Finance Agency as director of public affairs. Ver Helst will oversee the agency’s communications, marketing and public affairs Kayla Ver Helst program including strategies for positioning the agency in the housing industry and accomplishing federal and state policy goals. Prior to coming to the NDHFA, Ver Helst worked in business operations at the North Dakota Department of Transportation. She replaces Max Wetz, who resigned his position to return to his home state of South Dakota.

Starion Bank promotes in BismarckMandan Starion Bank has promoted

Lee Weisbeck

Dave Rogstad

Todd Neurohr

Lee Weisbeck, Dave Rogstad and Todd Neurohr. Weisbeck has been promoted to market president for Bismarck-Mandan. He works from both the downtown Bismarck and Mandan branches, and will continue to serve as a member of the bank’s management and leadership committees. Weisbeck began his career with Starion in 2007 as a business banking officer. He was promoted to assistant vice president of business banking in 2009, vice president of business banking in 2011 and named Mandan market president in 2015. Weisbeck holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary, and is a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado and the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce Leadership Bismarck-

Mandan program. Rogstad is business banking manager, senior vice president, for the Bismarck-Mandan business banking line. In addition to working with a roster of clients, he supervises the business banking officers and serves as a member of the bank’s leadership committee. Rogstad has more than 17 years of banking experience. He joined Starion in 2014 as a business banking officer and had previous Starion experience as a credit analyst. Rogstad earned bachelor’s degrees in agricultural economics and accountancy from North Dakota State University and is a graduate of the Wisconsin School of Banking. He is located at the downtown Bismarck branch. Neurohr has been promoted to ag banking Wald Attends Private manager, senior vice president, for the BismarckBriefing Mandan ag business line. He will continue to work out of the Mandan branch. As part of his new role, Neurohr David Wald with Securian will supervise members of the ag banking team and Financial Advisors of ND, Inc. affiliated with Securian Financial serve on the bank’s leadership committee. Neurohr has more than 24 years of agricultural lending experience. Network attended Private He began his career with Starion in 2013 as a business Briefing in Baltimore, MD. This David Wald is an invitation-only event held banking officer, vice president, and was promoted to by Securian Financial Services, senior vice president in 2014. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from Inc. that recognizes 25 investment advisor for their the University of Mary and is a U.S. Army veteran. production. It features in-depth information and education on investment portfolios including economic updates, portfolio manager presentations and practice management strategies. It’s also an opportunity for successful advisors to network, share ideas and learn from industry leaders and experts.

Chamber Connection | 33

COMMUNITY

Security First Bank Promotions

Security First Bank of North Dakota is proud to announce TJ Rooney, Cary Anderson, Jenna Fleck, Sarah Getzlaff have been promoted. TJ Rooney Rooney has been promoted to Bismarck President. Rooney joined Security First Bank as a Commercial Loan Officer in 2011. In 2017, he also became a licensed Financial Advisor with Security First Wealth Management. In his role as President, Rooney will continue Cary Anderson to serve his customers as both a Commercial Loan Officer and as a Financial Advisor. The role of President was previously held by David Ludwig, who retired after 17 years with Security First. Anderson has been promoted to Mandan President. He joined Security First Bank’s Mandan Jenna Fleck office as an Agricultural and Commercial Loan Officer in 2014. In his role as President, Anderson will continue to serve his customers as an Agricultural and Commercial Loan Officer. Security First is proud to name Anderson as our first ever Sarah Getzlaff Mandan President. Fleck has been promoted to Chief Operations Officer. She joined Security First Bank’s operations team in 2012 and is currently also responsible for the banks financial reporting. In her role as COO, Fleck will be responsible for daily operations, long-term projects, compliance and financial reporting. Getzlaff has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer. As a third-generation banker, she joined Security First as a teller in our Center office in 1995. In her role as CEO, Getzlaff will work closely with the bank’s Chairman to ensure Security First continues its dedication to its employees, its customers and to the communities we serve.

Dakota Center for Independent Living Hosts Benefit Fundraiser Auction

Dakota Center for Independent Living will be hosting a Benefit Fundraiser Auction on Friday, April 13th starting at 5:00pm. Bring the whole family and enjoy a delicious meal provided by the Eagles Auxiliary while bidding on fantastic auction items such as Medora Musical tickets, golf passes and so much more. All proceeds will be used to benefit youth with disabilities. For more information, search for Dakota Center for Independent Living on Facebook or go to www.temchackauctions.com. 34 | Chamber Connection

ASK-A-PRO

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Eide Bailly Hires New Associates

Andrew Beyer

Mitch Hersch

Ruth Jorritsma

Jared Mack

Megan Odegard

Brittani Reim

Troy Ressler

Eide Bailly LLP, a regional certified public accounting and business advisory firm, has expanded their Bismarck office audit, tax and business outsourcing and strategy departments with the addition of Andrew Beyer, Mitch Hersch, Ruth Jorritsma, Jared Mack, Megan Odegard, Brittani Reim and Troy Ressler. Beyer serves as an Audit Associate and is a graduate of University of Mary. He holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting. Hersch serves as an Audit Associate and is a graduate of University of North Dakota. He holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting. Jorritsma serves as a Business Outsourcing and Strategy Senior Associate and is a graduate of Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting. Mack serves as an Audit Associate and is a graduate of University of Jamestown. He holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting. Odegard serves as an Audit Associate and is a graduate of Minot State University. She holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting and finance and management Reim serves as a Tax Associate and is a graduate of Dickinson State University. She holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting. Ressler serves as an Audit Associate and is a graduate of North Dakota State University. He holds a bachelor’s of science degree in accounting.

Sanford Health Announces First DAISY Award Winner

Sanford Health registered nurse Kayla Ehrlich was recently presented with the DAISY award. The Daisy Award is a program Kayla Ehrlich that recognizes exceptional nurses for the care and expertise they demonstrate. Ehrlich works in the Sanford Children’s Hospital in Bismarck. This is the first Daisy Award Sanford Bismarck has presented to one of its nurses. Sanford Health partners with the DAISY Foundation to celebrate extraordinary nurses. The award is presented to nurses who are recognized as outstanding role models and consistently demonstrate excellence through clinical expertise and compassionate, extraordinary care.

Melvie and Bird Honored as Top Advisors by Forbes Magazine

Loren Melvie and Joel Bird, Private Wealth Advisors with Ameriprise Financial in Bismarck, were named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” published by Forbes Magazine. The list Loren Melvie recognizes financial advisors who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism and success in the business. The rankings are based on data provided by over 11,000 of the nation’s most productive advisors. Melvie and Bird Joel Bird were chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, regulatory and compliance record and revenue produced over a three-year period. Melvie and Bird are part of Legacy Financial Partners, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

BSC Student Chosen for D.C. Reporting Fellowship

Hunter Andes, a native of Makoti, N.D., and a current Bismarck State College student, has been selected by the North Hunter Andes Dakota Newspaper Association to attend a reporting fellowship program in Washington, D.C. Andes is also one of the founding members of the North Dakota Student Media Association. He is studying mass communications and secondary English education, and plans to transfer to Minot State University to complete a bachelor’s degree after graduating from BSC. He has already earned an associate degree in engineering technology, also from BSC.

www.bismarckmandan.com DCN hires Barth and Drennen

Kristin Barth recently joined Dakota Carrier Network’s team as NOC Administrator in its Bismarck office. In this role, she will provide administrative support for the Network Operations Center (NOC) Kristin Barth technicians, manager, and director of operations. Barth brings 10 years of telecommunications experience to DCN, and she also holds degrees from Bismarck State College and Dickinson State University. Joanna Drennen recently Joanna Drennen joined Dakota Carrier Network’s team as marketing manager in its Bismarck office. In this role, she is responsible for creating, publishing and measuring the effectiveness of DCN’s external marketing, advertising and public relations initiatives, and internal communication. Drennen brings eight years of marketing experience to DCN and holds bachelor’s degrees in English and communications from the University of Mary. She serves as a marketing team co-lead for the Bismarck-Mandan Young Professionals Network and has volunteered for Special Olympics North Dakota and Missouri Slope Areawide United Way.

Morey joins Bismarck- First Western Bank & Trust Hires Mandan Convention new Marketing & Graphic Design Specialist and Visitors Bureau

Lindsey Morey has joined the staff at the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau. Morey’s background in sales Lindsey Morey and event coordination prepared her well for this position. Morey works with meeting and event planners, matching their needs with the facilities and services available in Bismarck-Mandan. Prior to joining the CVB, Lindsey spent the past eight years as the Sales & Event Coordinator for the Bismarck Event Center.

First International Bank & Trust Welcomes Fluhrer

First International Bank & Trust (FIB&T) is proud to announce the new hire of Jed Fluhrer, Commercial Loan Officer. Jed has a Master’s Degree in Natural Resources Management from NDSU, and is a graduate of Jed Fluhrer the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. Additionally, Jed is a graduate of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber Leadership Program.

First Western Bank & Trust is proud to announce Karly Palczewski as the new Marketing & Graphic Design Specialist. Palczewski was raised in Bowman and is a graduate of Bowman County Karly Palczewski High School. She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Marketing from the University of Mary in December of 2017. Palczewski has interned with the BismarckMandan Chamber of Commerce for the past year and half and also owns her own photography business, KP Photography.

Sheriff Heinert presented AARC award Burleigh County Sheriff Pat Heinert was presented the Abused Adult Resource Center’s 24th annual “Love Without Fear” Award at Pam’s House, AARC’s emergency shelter for battered women and their children Feb. 14. The award honors someone who has made a difference in the community regarding domestic violence. Presenting the award were Christine Hogan, chair of the AARC Board of Directors, and Diane Zainhofsky, AARC executive director.

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

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

Mon, 2nd

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

Tues, 3rd

5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

Thurs, 5th Mon, 9th

5:00 pm Bismarck Board of Adjustment

Tues, 10th

5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

5:30 pm Mandan Park Board

Wed, 11th 8:00 am Burleigh County Water Resource District 5:15 pm Burleigh County Planning Commission Thurs, 12th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board 5:30 pm Morton County Commission* Mon, 16th

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

Tues, 17th 1:00 pm Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Board 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission Thurs, 19th

5:15 pm Bismarck Park Board

Mon, 23rd

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

Tues 24th

5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission 5:30 pm Morton County Commission*

Wed, 25th

5:00 pm Bismarck Planning Commission

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

Chamber Connection | 35

Ribbon Cuttings

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

SANFORD POWER Craig Lambrecht and Mark Salwei at their new location on 3401 14th Street in Bismarck. 701-751-7655. Member.

HERITAGE PARK Chad Moldenhauer, Developer, 1003 Community Loop, Bismarck. 701-258-4584. Member.

CONNECT WIRELESS Brandon Fjelstad, Owner, at his new business located at 1493 E. LaSalle Drive. 701-751-3247. Member. 36 | Chamber Connection

BLARNEY STONE PUB Tim Conover, General Manager, at their remodeled location on 408 East Main Avenue in Bismarck. 701-751-7512. Member.

PANCHEROS Mary Armstrong, Owner, at her new business located at 1485 E. LaSalle Drive, Bismarck. 701-751-3255.

THE SCAPEGOAT BAR Tosha Niewsma, Owner, at her new business located at 202 E. Main Street, Mandan. 701-751-2213.

www.bismarckmandan.com

Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!

POPPYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PROMISE Lorena Poppe, Owner, at her new business located at 1500 E. Capitol Avenue, Bismarck. 701-204-7870.

DESIGNER GENES Roxane Romanick, at her new location at 1500 E. Capitol Avenue, Bismarck. 701-391-7421.

COMIC REALMS Beau and Lesley Frohlich, Owners, at their new business on 106 N. Mandan Street. 701-751-4540. Member.

THE ARC OF BISMARCK Kirsten Dvorak, Executive Director at her new location at 1500 E. Capitol Avenue, Bismarck. 701-222-1854. Member.

ND STATE COUNCIL ON DEVELOPMENT DISABILITIES Julie Hornvedt, Director at their new location on 1500 E. Capitol Avenue, Bismarck. 701-328-4847.

MIGHTY MISSOURI COFFEE COMPANY Brian Jackson, DJ & Jamielee Kramer, Owners at their new location on 1608 N. Washington Street. 701-751-2949. Chamber Connection | 37

Welcome new members

The Chamber of Commerce encourages all members to do business with each other. The following companies and organizations have recently made an important investment in their business by joining the Chamber. Please consider them for your professional and personal needs. To find a complete listing of Chamber members, view the Member Directory online at www.bismarckmandan.com.

Innovations International Bismarck, ND Jeffon Seely (206) 384-0274 Presentations and workshops centered around millennials, engagement, productivity, performance, diversity, inclusion and mindfulness.

Comic Realms 106 N. Mandan Street Bismarck, ND Lesley Frohlich (701) 751-4540 Comic book shop offering comic books, graphic novels and collectibles.

Cruise Planners 5651 Niagara Dr. Bismarck, ND Kathy Cambridge (406) 219-2081 Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative, has a tremendous reputation for quality, service and competitive pricing for ALL travel needs, land and sea.

KooKoo’s Nest 114 N 5th Street Bismarck, ND Kinzey Fockler (701) 955-4083 Retail sales - Women’s Clothing, Formal Wear tuxedo rentals, prom dresses and women’s accessories.

Welcome

Jed Fluhrer Commercial Lender Jed Fluhrer, a leader in commercial and ag lending, has joined First International Bank & Trust as our new Commercial Lender in Bismarck. Jed’s 10 years of experience and expert approach will help you achieve your Live First goals. Give Jed a call at (701) 751-8580 to discuss your financial future.

NOW OPEN AT THE CORNER OF STATE AND DIVIDE New state-of-the-art building to open early 2018 1533 North 12th Street | Bismarck, ND

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INTERNET & NETWORKING DATA CENTER PHONE CABLE TV ADVERTISING

MIDCO CAN WORK FOR YOU, TOO Midco® Business has the technology that works as hard as you do. From custom internet and networking solutions to secured data centers, phone and more – Midco takes the work out of running your business. We also bring you closer to your customers with targeted digital and cable TV advertising. Put Midco Business to work for you, and let us focus on your technology, so you can focus on growing your business.

READY TO MIDCO? LET’S GO. Midco.com/Business • 1.800.888.1300

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

Upcoming Chamber Events CHAMBER SPRING MIXER Date: Tuesday, April 3, 2018 • Time: 5:00pm - 7:30pm Location: Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center – 800 S. 3rd Street, Bismarck

The Chamber

APRIL MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BISMARCK-MANDAN ELKS LODGE Date: Thursday, April 12, 2018 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Bismarck-Mandan Elks Lodge – 900 S. Washington St, Bismarck MAY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BISMARCK-MANDAN ELKS LODGE Date: Thursday, May 10, 2018 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: American Bank Center – 101 E Main Street, Mandan

BISMARCK - MANDAN

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN PROJECT PRESENTATIONS Date: Wednesday, May 16, 2018 • Time: 8:30am - 12:00pm Location: Chamber of Commerce –1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck CHAMBER 101: MAXIMIZING YOUR MEMBERSHIP Date: Tuesday, May 22, 2018 • Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm Location: Chamber of Commerce –1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION LUNCHEON Date: Wednesday, May 23, 2018 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm Location: Baymont Inn & Suites –2611 Old Red Trail NW, Mandan

Premium banking solutions FOR BUSY PROFESSIONALS

Member FDIC

Private Banking can deliver unique benefits for executives, entrepreneurs and other busy professionals. From loans to deposits to home financing and more, a Starion Private Banker is your single point of contact to manage your financial needs and objectives.

Contact Beth or Alicia today or learn more at starionbank.com.

Beth Simek

Alicia VanBuskirk

250 -1413

250-1468

Private Banking Officer, AVP