May Connection

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Wendy Van Duyne .............................................................. Chair

Matt Sagaser ...............................................................Vice-Chair

Lee Pierce .....................................................................Secretary

Kevin Strege ............................................................... Past Chair

Dave Ehlis .................................................................... Treasurer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Evan Anderson ...........................................................Gizmonics

Andrea Birst ...............................................Glance Spa & Salon

Nathan Boehm ....................................................Morton County

Joe Camisa ..........................................................City of Mandan

Dan Eastgate ....................................Venture Real Estate Group

Dave Ehlis ..............................................................Bravera Bank

Fred Fridley .........................................................Sanford Health

Amber Larson .....................................................Bartlett & West

Heather Jones .............................................City Air Mechanical

Wayne Munson ..................................................Burleigh County

Larry Oswald ......................................Montana-Dakota Utilities

Marnie Piehl .......................................................................AARP

Lee Pierce .........................................................ICON Architects

Mike Remboldt ................................................................HIT Inc.

Dave Rogstad ....................................................... Starion Bank

Matt Sagaser ......................................................Doosan Bobcat

Mike Schmitz .....................................................City of Bismarck

Kevin Strege ................................................Credit Foundations

Wendy Van Duyne .....................Stantec Consulting Services Inc.

CHAMBER EDC STAFF

Maggie Byrd ...................................................Event Coordinator

Emily Eback ...Business Development & Marketing Coordinator

Ross Frohlich ............................................Membership Director

Mary Kempenich........................Workforce Marketing Specialist

Christine Nelson ..........................Vice President Sales & Events

Rebecca Pelkey .................................Communications Specialist

Brian Ritter .......................................................President & CEO

Julianne Sauvage .............................................................. Intern

Lyndsey Scheurer .........................Creative Marketing Specialist

Nathan Schneider ................................................Vice President

Emily Seebold ................................................ Sales Coordinator

Cathryn Sprynczynatyk .....................Communications Specialist

Kelsey Wirt .......................Small Business Outreach Coordinator

1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-223-5660 • www.bismarckmandan.com

CONTACT INFORMATION

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To make each and every edition of the Connection unique, our team sits down at the beginning of the year and develops an editorial calendar to outline what topics we should cover to highlight all of the issues facing our communities. So far this year, we’ve touched on a number of topics including the 2023 Legislative Session and the Chamber EDC’s new 2023 – 2025 Strategic Plan. It’s important that we communicate to you what we’re doing to engage your continued support, and these two editions certainly did that. However, it’s also important that we spotlight the great work of our members, and that’s the focus of this month’s issue of the Connection.

During our initial meeting this year, there was an idea to spotlight a segment of our membership that doesn’t often get a lot of recognition: restaurants. But, how do we spotlight some of our restaurant members in a way that hasn’t necessarily been done before? As you’ll read in the following pages, we’ve decided to focus on some of those local business people who have chosen to open and operate a franchise restaurant.

These people are entrepreneurs who have chosen to take a different path in opening their own restaurants and each have a different story for how they got there. For instance, one of our members is brand new to our community-- having chosen to relocate here with his family to operate a location for one of America’s most popular chains. Another one of those members has partnered with other local owners to open a unique restaurant here in Bismarck that has grown so popular, they’re now opening locations in other communities. And yet another of our members chose to come to Mandan with their chain after experiencing success in another market. These are three unique stories and I think you’re going to enjoy reading them.

This month also marks the unofficial ‘kickoff’ to the Chamber EDC’s summer activities, or at least when we start marketing events like Lunch on the Patio, the Chamber EDC’s Outdoor Golf Scramble and others. It’s certainly been a long winter and we’re looking forward to a slate of summer events where we can gather, network and celebrate all of the great things happening at the Chamber EDC and here in Bismarck-Mandan.

One of those causes for celebration is the Chamber EDC’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year Program. For as long as I’ve been involved with the Chamber EDC, and long before that, our organization has solicited nominations from the community for outstanding teachers at the elementary, high school and college levels. A dedicated group of volunteers then comb through all those nominations to select honorees at all three of those levels in both Bismarck and Mandan. Then, thanks to the tremendous support our sponsors, that Committee gets to go into the classroom and present those teachers with their award in front of their students, colleagues and more. If you haven’t ever seen one of these presentations, I can assure you it is well worth it!

There’s lots to be excited about as we head into the summer and to learn more, make sure to keep reading this month’s Connection

Wendy Van Duyne, Chair Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

FRANCHISEES: THE LOCAL FACES OF NATIONAL BRANDS

By Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

In the conversation about eating local, shopping local, and supporting local, there is one key group that is often left out: franchise owners. These are local business owners and entrepreneurs who live and work in our community. They have simply chosen the franchise route for their entrepreneurial ventures.

Chick-fil-A

ANDREW STUBBS Owner/Operator

Andrew Stubbs and his wife come from families of entrepreneurs.

“My dad left a pretty good job at corporate America and decided to become an entrepreneur,” said Stubbs, Owner/Operator of the Bismarck Chick-fil-A. “He would buy businesses, build them up, and sell them for a pretty good profit. I grew up a part of those businesses.”

Since Stubbs describes himself as competitive, he said entrepreneurism is a good fit for his personality. In his 20s, Stubbs owned an international tennis academy based in Orlando. Students all over the world would sharpen their competitive tennis skills while attending college preparatory school.

Next, Stubbs became executive pastor of a church. While living in South Carolina, Stubbs came to a crossroads in his career.

“I was trying to figure out what to do with the rest of my life,” Stubbs said.

He got to know a local Chick-fil-A operator who became his mentor.

“There are roughly 100,000 (potential franchisees) who apply each year, and they select 100,” Stubbs said.

Stubbs quit his job and worked at Chick-fil-A for the next two years. His first day was washing dishes, cutting lettuce, and taking orders over the headset.

“My application process was two and a half years,” Stubbs said. “It’s a lot of different interviews, a lot of different questionnaires, a lot of visits. That process is very much designed to select the candidates who have a great amount of perseverance and a strong desire to own a restaurant.”

Out of roughly 100,000 potential franchisees each year, Chick-fil-A selects 100.

Chick-fil-A corporate had already selected the location on South 3rd Street in Bismarck.

“There is a team at Chick that is a lot smarter than I am,” Stubbs said. “They do a lot of market research to choose the location. We think it’s a phenomenal location next to the mall and Bismarck Event Center.”

All locations are owned and operated locally. Stubbs said the expectation is that the owner is in the restaurant every day. Stubbs applied to operate the Bismarck location.

“No. 1 it’s a great place to raise a family,” Stubbs said. “Being from the southeast, it’s pretty saturated with Chickfil-A locations. Looking at the map, the Midwest looked like the best place for our family. No. 2 is the fact that there is not a Chick-fil-A here within three hours. Where we moved from, there are three Chick-fil-As within 10 minutes.”

Stubbs said opening the restaurant in a brand-new market was both an opportunity and a challenge.

“Any time you’re starting something from the ground up, it’s challenging,” Stubbs said. “Add to that a new market where the brand you’re representing doesn’t exist. It’s a fun challenge and an exciting challenge, and at the same time it is a challenge.”

Stubbs opened the restaurant in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought its own set of hurdles. In addition, Stubbs said the economy is in a challenging position right now.

“The economy comes in cycles, so we know that it won’t always be this way,” Stubbs said.

Stubbs said the part he is proudest of is developing the team of employees: “(Chick-fil-A founder) Truett Cathy used to say, ‘We’re not just in the chicken business, were in the people business. That’s how I judge success is by our people.”

Stubbs said the restaurant has just begun to make its mark on the community.

“We’re just really beginning,” Stubbs said. “I’m excited to see where this brand goes.”

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DICKEY'S BARBECUE PIT

AMANDA BABB ZACHMEIER Owner

Amanda Babb Zachmeier knew that when she opened her business, she wanted it to be located in Mandan. She and her former husband used to have backyard barbecues with the neighbors that involved waking up at 3 a.m. to tend the smoker. They knew they wanted to open a Texas-style BBQ restaurant, and they found the franchise model was a good fit.

“People don’t understand mom and pop joints versus a franchise,” Babb Zachmeier said.

Babb Zachmeier was a physician assistant before she became an entrepreneur. She said some days she wishes she was located on South 3rd Street in Bismarck, but she likes how her location is central to the Bismarck-Mandan metropolitan area.

“There are a lot of people who don’t venture this direction because it’s Mandan,” Babb Zachmeier said.

She does have a Bismarck location ready, but that is on pause for the moment. She said she would rather have one strong location than divide energy between two. Babb Zachmeier also had a location in Minot, which she sold recently.

Babb Zachmeier said she enjoys the family aspect of her business. Her 11- and 12-year-old children will sometimes work with her. Her 8-month-old grandson will be sitting right next to the register while the family is working.

“It’s a family effort, because they are willing to help out mom,” Babb Zachmeier said.

“I don’t compliment myself very often,” Babb Zachmeier said. “I think I’m still working on that absolutely proud moment. It’s a business that didn’t fail during hard times or COVID. We’re still standing strong.”

The idea for Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Mandan started when Amanda Babb Zachmeier and her neighbors got into backyard smoking and BBQ.

Blarney Stone

JIM POOLMAN President of Slainte Holdings

After creating a local restaurant concept from scratch and running a hotel franchise, Jim Poolman, President of Slainte Holdings, is in a position to start his own franchise if he and his partners decide to go that direction.

Poolman partners with Chad Wachter and Dustin Hollevoet to run Slainte Holdings.

After leaving the political arena, Poolman and partners founded The Blarney Stone in 2009. Their building in downtown Bismarck was for sale. It had been a Chinese restaurant called The Golden Dragon, and Poolman was attracted to the high ceilings and mezzanine-level balconies. The partners wanted to find a restaurant concept that fit the architecture. They looked at franchising an English pub concept headquartered in Toronto but concluded they could create it themselves.

“Little did we know we would have four of them,” Poolman said. “Little did we know that they would be as popular as they are.”

Around the same time, he and his partners began looking at a hotel franchise. There was a parcel of land available in northwest Bismarck that they felt would be a prime location for a hotel. They franchised Hampton Inn, a mid-level hotel brand in the Hilton hotel family.

At the time, there were no other hotels in that area. They liked the proximity to Bismarck State College and the North Dakota Capitol.

After five years, the partners built a Blarney Stone freestanding location in West Fargo.

“We took a chance there in an underdeveloped part of West Fargo right off the interstate,” Poolman said.

“Right after we built came three brand new hotels which immediately gave us a customer base. It’s very difficult in Fargo to get a liquor license. They are super expensive. West Fargo gave us a liquor license at 5 percent of the cost.”

The Sioux Falls, S.D., location came another five years later. Sioux Falls has a vibrant downtown, and Poolman said it took longer for the Blarney Stone concept to take hold.

“Sioux Falls didn’t really know our brand,” Poolman said. “It took a while for people to break away from their old habits and give us a try. Once they did, it really took off.”

Last year, the partners bought the Hotel Donaldson in downtown Fargo. They remodeled the hotel and brought their Blarney Stone restaurant concept to the ground floor. Poolman said people are protective of the Hotel Donaldson brand identity in Fargo.

“We worked very hard in downtown Fargo to respect the concept that had been created,” Poolman said. “When Karen Stoker had done that place, she essentially started the renaissance of downtown Fargo. That to me was important since we had essentially done the same thing (with Blarney Stone) in downtown Bismarck.”

Poolman said if the partners were to franchise The Blarney Stone, they would want to be involved in owning the real estate.

“I’m super proud when people from different parts of the state and different parts of the country ask when we’re going to put a location in their town,” Poolman said. “We’ve heard requests for Minot, Grand Forks, Omaha, Neb., Arizona. We put money aside every month for growth, so we’re not done yet.”

Nearly 15 years after founding The Blarney Stone in Bismarck, Jim Poolman and partners have four locations across two states.

MANDAN SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES

DARREN HAUGEN

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR SCHOOL BOARD AND WHAT QUALIFIES YOU FOR THE POSITION?

My entire immediate family members are products of the Mandan School System and after serving my first term on the board I believe there are many areas of continued success to build upon. The two new schools, the class size structure, the growing enrollment, and ever-changing education delivery methods are just to name a few.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD TO ADDRESS IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS? WHAT CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE? Mandan is growing. With that comes challenges such as enrollment and facilities. My top priorities going forward will be to ensure a strong opening for our kids in the new schools of Lakewood and the High School, the financial commitments to the public regarding costs, taxes, and maintenance. We have asked a lot of our citizens to support the construction of these new schools. The voters overwhelmingly supported the effort for our youth, and it is our responsibility to ensure the taxpayers are getting what was promised in terms of facilities, tax increase limits, and class size accountability. I intend to work hard to ensure those commitments are kept and be good stewards of the public funds.

KAMA HOOVESTOL

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR SCHOOL BOARD AND WHAT QUALIFIES YOU FOR THE POSITION?

I am running for another term on the school board after serving the board for seven years. I love seeing the progress that the students and staff make in our district. It is a privilege to watch our district grow in such a positive way. I worked for Mandan Public Schools as a certified teacher prior to becoming a board member. I have three children that are currently in the school system.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD TO ADDRESS IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS? WHAT CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE? My top priority is to continue to work with the district to address the growth and development of our district. We are moving in a great direction addressing our growth with the opening of a new elementary school this fall and new high school in the fall of 2024. Staffing new schools and making sure all of our schools have adequate staff will be an issue. I want to be able to support our staff members the best we can in order to provide the best education for students. Keeping class numbers small and providing resources to our staff members is very important to me.

MANDAN SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES

MANDAN SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

MARNIE PIEHL

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR SCHOOL BOARD AND WHAT QUALIFIES YOU FOR THE POSITION?

I'm running for my fourth term because I want to see this exciting era through. During my three terms I have worked with district leaders and my school board peers to pass a bond issue, build two elementary schools and a high school, navigate the pandemic, and engage in the ongoing challenges and joys faced by our dedicated teachers, staff and administrators. The completion of the new high school and the opportunities it will bring to our students is truly an epic moment for Mandan.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD TO ADDRESS IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS? WHAT CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE?

In addition to an excellent education, we need to make sure students have the mental health resources, safe spaces and supportive leaders they need to thrive.

We have to continue to competitively compensate our teachers and staff. We say Mandan is where the best begins – that would not be possible without outstanding teachers ensuring our kids are clear, critical thinkers prepared for life. Every year that passes, teachers face greater responsibility and pressure.

And finally, Mandan’s continued growth is both a challenge and an opportunity. We must continue to look forward and proactively plan to meet the needs of the community.

POLLING HOURS: 7:00am - 7:00pm

POLLING LOCATION

Mandan Brave Center 901 Division St NW, Mandan

THREE CANDIDATES FOR THREE AT-LARGE POSITIONS

• Darren Haugen

• Kama Hoovestol

• Marnie Piehl

For more information and resources for the upcoming election, visit www.cityofmandan.com elections or call the Mandan School District at 701-751-6500.

EAPC ARCHITECTS ENGINEERS

Briefly tell us the history behind EAPC Architects Engineers and how you got started.

A: EAPC was founded in 1967 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, as an engineering firm. Several years later EAPC merged with an architecture firm, sharing a vision for providing comprehensive, integrated design services. Over the past half century, EAPC has grown into a multidisciplinary firm with 10 offices and 185 staff throughout the region. We have had a strong presence in the Bismarck-Mandan area since 2006.

MEMBER SINCE 1973

How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted EAPC Architects Engineers?

A: The growth of Bismarck-Mandan has had a significant impact on EAPC, particularly in the K-12 and healthcare sectors. As these industries have expanded to serve the growing population, we continue to have opportunities to provide design services to clients, including Bismarck State College, Missouri Slope, Basin Electric, Bismarck Public Schools, Family Wellness Bismarck Mandan, and our local healthcare organizations. In addition, this growth has allowed us to solidify further our reputation as one of the largest multi-disciplinary firms in the region.

EAPC Architects Engineers has been a Chamber EDC member since 1973.

What trends are taking place in your industry?

A: Some notable trends in our industry include supply chain challenges and rising building material costs due to the pandemic. This has led some clients to scale back or postpone their projects. On the other hand, the pandemic has also driven increased efficiency in our firm with video conferencing and remote inspections, reducing costs for clients and streamlining our operations.

Have there been any monumental changes within your industry that you’ve had to deal with?

A: The pandemic has indeed brought about significant changes in our industry, both in terms of challenges and opportunities. As we navigate these changes, EAPC continues to grow and adapt with a focus on our sectorbased expertise and geographic diversity.

What does the future EAPC Architects Engineers look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: Looking ahead we anticipate continued growth for EAPC, particularly in our Phoenix, Arizona office, which is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country. Our sector-based approach and geographic diversity enable us to weather economic fluctuations and focus on the development of our local teams and expertise in key sectors such as healthcare, K-12 education, higher education, industrial, site entitlement, and civic projects.

EAPC Architects Engineers became a Chamber EDC member in 1973, why do you continue to renew?

A: In 2006, EAPC merged with AWBW Architects of Bismarck, who had been a Chamber EDC member since 1973. The Chambers' commitment to keeping businesses informed and connected through various economic conditions has been instrumental in our growth and success. In addition, it provides valuable networking and governmental affairs support.

What should other Chamber EDC members know about EAPC Architects Engineers that may assist them?

A: Fellow Chamber EDC members should know that EAPC is a well-established and experienced firm, with a vast portfolio of projects throughout the BismarckMandan area. Our multidisciplinary approach and sectorbased expertise allow us to provide innovative solutions to complex challenges.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OF THE MONTH

The city of Mandan currently offers the FIRE SPRINKLER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. The program is offered through the Mandan Growth Fund and administered by the City of Mandan’s Business Development Office. Interested commercial property owners may apply for a forgivable loan, not to exceed $10,000, for up to 50% of their investment in the installation, upgrade or retrofit of fire sprinkler systems.

The program is available citywide. The interest-free loan will be pro-rated and forgiven over the course of five years contingent upon project completion and sprinkler system remaining intact and operable during this period, subject to annual inspection and verification by the Mandan Fire Department.

MANDAN KICKS OFF HIGH SCHOOL REDEVELOPMENT PLANNING

In February, the Mandan City Commission voted to move forward with the creation of a placemaking plan for the existing Mandan High School site once construction is complete on the new high school. Together with stakeholders from Mandan Public Schools (MPS) and Mandan Parks and Recreation, the City is working with the project team of Stantec and ICON Architects to identify future redevelopment opportunities for the 18-acre site. As part of this process, the team will consider redevelopment opportunities for the high school site and surrounding parking lot, while also incorporating the Brave Center and All Seasons Arena, which will remain community and school facilities. Between now and mid-August, multiple opportunities for community feedback will be announced. A public information and input meeting was held in March. There will also be opportunities at many upcoming community events such as Touch a Truck, Art in the Park, and others coinciding with the study schedule. There is also an online survey that community members can take at the project website. The website has been created for the public to learn more about this effort and follow along as the plan progresses.

Funding for this planning effort is provided through the U.S. Economic Development Administration Public Space Initiative – Placemaking Planning Grant. In 2022, Mandan was awarded $100,000 of this funding from the North Dakota Main Street Initiative specifically for this plan's creation.

SEND IT! 24/7 CORNHOLE WINS MANDAN BUSINESS PITCH CHALLENGE

Send It! 24/7 Cornhole was announced as the winner of Mandan’s 2023 Business Pitch Challenge. Send It! 24/7 Cornhole is a cornhole event center with a full bar, axe throwing and more.

The winning business received monetary prizes, the chance to be eligible for up to a $10,000 forgivable loan from the Mandan Growth Fund, plus a host of other prizes to assist on their entrepreneurial journey. Audience members also selected them for a people’s choice award.

It! 24/7

First runner-up was Inside Park an indoor park geared towards young children planned by Brittany Kennedy. Third place honors go to Just You Studios, a home office and entrepreneurial community connecting local creative entrepreneurs with area resources by Katie Bowers. The other finalist is Josette Dupree of Big Stick Cigars, a vintage tobacconist’s shop. Judges evaluated applications and executive summaries of business plans submitted by finalists as well as their live pitch presentations and responses to questions.

The Mandan Tomorrow - Economic Opportunity and Prosperity Committee hosted the competition with assistance from the City of Mandan Business Development Department, North Dakota Small Business Development Center, and the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC.

CHAMBER EDC BOARD SUPPORTS

AIRPORT GRANT

At its April Board meeting the Chamber EDC Board of Director’s voted unanimously to support the Bismarck Airport’s application for the Small Community Air Service Development Grant (SCASDG).

In addition to supporting the application the Chamber EDC Board also agreed to provide $2,500 towards the community contribution. The grant program is designed to help small communities address air service and airfare issues.

If the Bismarck Airport is selected and awarded the grant, the dollars will be used to attract a carrier that will provide a route to the southeast United States.

Send

Cornhole was named the Mandand Business Pit Challenge winner.

LET’S KICKOFF LEMONADE DAY!

Calling all parents, mentors, teachers, and youth leaders! Join us at this year’s first Lemonade Day Kickoff event on May 24th in the Dakota Zoo parking lot from 3:00pm –6:00pm to get your kiddos registered for Lemonade Day. Lemonade Day is a FREE entrepreneurial experience that teaches kids how to become the founder and CEO of their own business in the form of a lemonade stand.

The Kickoff Event is a great opportunity for young entrepreneurs and their mentor/parent to register either in person (or online beforehand) and then receive their business kit, including a FREE children's pass with a paying adult to the zoo! If you’re part of Clark’s Kids Club with the Bismarck Larks, you can also gain one of your four stars for your lanyard and membership card by registering for Lemonade Day at this event.

To learn more or to register, visit www.lemonadeday.org/ bismarck-mandan; call the Chamber EDC office at 701-2235660, or email Maggie Byrd, mbyrd@bmcedc.com

THANK YOU SPONSORS! Main Squeeze Sponsors:

Fresh Squeeze Sponsors: Lime-Light Sponsors:

Lemon Head Sponsors: ABRA Auto Body & Glass, Bravera Bank, Dakota Fence, Doosan/Bobcat, DK Orthodontics, Gary Tharaldson School of Business-University of Mary, Gizmonics, LLC, Grand Junction Grilled Subs, Huck

REGISTER “FORE” THE CHAMBER EDC GOLF SCRAMBLE

Join us for the Chamber EDC Golf Scramble, presented by Eide Bismarck | Mandan, on Monday, June 5th at Hawktree Golf Club.

Don’t wait to get yourself or your team registered for a fun day on the green as the number of spots available is limited!

Cost to attend is $175 for an individual and $700 for a team of four. Player fees include: golf fee, golf cart, driving range, lunch and dinner, and the opportunity to win a door prize!

Check-in starts at 10:30am with a shotgun start to follow at 11:30am. There will be plenty of prizes, contests, food, and refreshments, so register your team of FORE today at www.bismarckmandan.com!

For more information, contact Maggie Byrd at mbyrd@ bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC office at 701-2235660!

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsors:

Hole Sponsors: Advanced Business Methods, Amy Hullet with Century 21 Morrison Realty, Baymont Inn & Suites, Bismarck Cancer Center, BNC National Bank, Consolidated Construction Company, Inc., Dakota Carrier Network, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, First Western Bank & Trust, ICON Architectural Group, Prairie Knights Casino & Resort, Scheels, Silicon Plains, Vue Community Credit Union

Driving Range/Chipping Area Sponsor: Tires Plus

Putting Green Sponsor: Vogel Law Firm

Golf Cart Sponsor: Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

Drinking Cart Sponsor: ConocoPhillips

Lunch Sponsor: Bismarck Municipal Airport

Welcome Sponsors: Amy Hullet with Century 21 Morrison Realty, Tommy's Car Wash

20 UNDER 40 NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR BISMARCK-MANDAN

Who among the Bismarck-Mandan’s young movers and shakers stood up and stood out to you this past year?

It's time to nominate those who continue to make positive changes in Bismarck-Mandan. The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC presents to you the 2023 20 Under 40 Awards.

Nominations can be submitted at www.bismarckmandan. com/20under40.

The deadline for nominations is May 31. If you have any questions, please contact Cathryn Sprynczynatyk at 701-223-5660 or cathryn@bmcedc.com

Awards will be presented at Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan on Thursday, September 28th at the Bismarck Event Center.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN FIELD PROJECTS

Each year the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class breaks into multiple groups to work on field projects addressing community needs. The class will be presenting their projects Wednesday, May 10 at the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC.

9:00am - 9:45am - Sledding Hill

This proposed project would create a multipurpose winter recreation space in Mandan, which could also be utilized for summer recreation.

• Gabrielle Abouassaly

• Greg Owen

• Joe Rinaldi

• Destiny Sisk

• Teri Sovak

• Andrew Stromme

• Marcus Wagner

10:00am - 10:45am - Financial Literacy

The purpose of this project is to create an educational platform to allow high school students the ability to have hands-on experience learning about real life financial literacy skills and how these skills will be applied in their future.

• Nick Guarcello

• Denae Johnson

• Kim Kuipers

• Tom Oakland

• Elliot Rust

11:00am - 11:45am - Blue Light Security

The group would like to enhance public safety and security on and around Bismarck State College’s campus by implementing safety and security features (e.g. blue light safety).

• Sherri Anderson

• Courtney Hamilton

• Tiffany Hodge

• Katie Johnke

• Devin Melvie

If you would like to attend any of these presentations, please RSVP to Cathryn Sprynczynatyk at 701-223-5660 or cathryn@bmcedc.com.

WATER. WASTEWATER TREATMENT. WATER RESOURCES.

SOLVING YOUR MOST PRESSING WATER CHALLENGES.

VOTE TODAY FOR YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES IN BISMARCK-MANDAN!

Voting is still open for the Chamber EDC’s Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan event! Every year, the Celebrate Ad Hoc Committee, along with the help of the community, recognizes businesses and business professionals who have excelled in Bismarck-Mandan over the years! Recipients of the below awards will be announced at the annual award ceremony on Thursday, September 28th at the Bismarck Event Center, Hall A (315 S. 5th St., Bismarck).

At this year’s event, we will honor those who have been nominated in the following categories:

• Golden Eagle Award

• Small Business of the Year Award

• Large Business of the Year Award

• Women Owned Business of the Year

• Service Award of the Year

• Granite Award (announced at 2024 Annual Dinner)

Voting ends May 31st, so don’t wait too long to nominate! Submit your nomination today at: www.bismarckmandan. com.

For any questions regarding the awards or nomination process, please contact Maggie Byrd, mbyrd@bmcedc. com, or call the Chamber EDC office, 701-223-5660.

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsors: Award Sponsors:

Table Sponsors: Apex Engineering Group, Inc., Bank of North Dakota, Bismarck Cancer Center, Bismarck State College, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, Brady, Martz &

FIRST LUNCH ON THE PATIO IS NEXT MONTH!

The Chamber EDC can’t wait for summer to finally be here! In just one month, the Chamber EDC will have the first Lunch on the Patio appreciation lunch for the summer of 2023! The organization greatly appreciates our members and all the support YOU give throughout the year, so please, stop by and accept our small token of appreciation. Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Daniel Companies, and Lunch Sponsor, Brady, Martz & Associates, P.C., we are able to bring this event to you for FREE!

Join Chamber EDC staff for a fun way to network on Thursday, June 1st, from 11:30am – 1:00pm on our beautiful patio while we serve burgers, brats, a choice of sides, along with ice cold refreshments and a sweet treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Lunch on the Patio is FREE for Chamber EDC members to attend. No RSVPs are necessary!

Contact Maggie Byrd, mbyrd@bmcedc.com, or call 701-223-5660 for questions about this fun afternoon in the sun!

THANK YOU SPONSORS: Presenting Sponsor:

Gold Sponsor: Brady, Martz & Associates, P.C.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION

Join us Wednesday, May 17 at Chick’s Place in University of Mary with the 34th class of leaders as they graduate from the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan program.

You are invited to attend and celebrate the Class of 2023. Registration and networking begin at 11:30am, lunch and program and noon.

Leadership Bismarck-Mandan, Class of 2023:

Gabrielle Abouassaly – Sanford Health

Sherri Anderson – Starion Bank

Nick Guarcello – Security First Bank of North Dakota

Courtney Hamilton – Bismarck Title Company

Tiffany Hodge – Quills Corporate Consulting, Inc.

Katie Johnke – Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health

Denae Johnson – KLJ Engineering

Kimberly Kuipers – Dakota Eye Institute

Devin Melvie – Legacy Financial Partners

Tom Oakland – North Dakota Department of Commerce

Greg Owen – Capital Electric Cooperative

Joseph Rinaldi – Nexstar Media Group - KX News

Elliot Rust – Sea Foam International

Destiny Sisk – Touchmark Retirement Community

Teri Sovak – Montana-Dakota Utilities

Andrew Stromme – City of Mandan

Marcus Wagner – University of Mary

The cost for attending is $35.00 per person and includes lunch. Table sponsorship is $350. Register online at www. bismarckmandan.com/events or by calling the Chamber EDC at 701-223-5660.

THANK YOU SPONSORS:

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsor: Scholarship Sponsors:

Program Sponsors: Bartlett & West, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, KLJ Engineering

Table Sponsors: Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Alumni Association, Sanford Health

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2023 OUTSTANDING TEACHER NOMINEES!

Throughout February, many nominations for excellent teachers in Bismarck-Mandan were collected for the 2023 Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award and we wanted to take a moment to recognize all the wonderful teachers who were nominated. Congratulations to the following teachers!

BISMARCK PRIMARY EDUCATION

Becky Echelbarger – St. Mary’s Grade School

Eliza Bullock – Centennial Elementary

Heather Kaiser – Silver Ranch Elementary

Julie Ward – Elk Ridge Elementary

Karen Uhler – St. Mary’s Grade School

Libby Barrett – Grimsrud Elementary

Marnie Speidel – Shiloh Christian School

Paige Guy – Moses Elementary

Sarah Clark – Cathedral of the Holy Spirit

Siri Coleman – Shiloh Christian School

Tara Stolldorf – Shiloh Christian School

MANDAN PRIMARY EDUCATION

Alyssa Pesicka – Red Trail Elementary

Amber Kocourek – Lewis & Clark Elementary

Amy Kautzmann – Lewis & Clark Elementary

Lauren Lingen – Red Trail Elementary

BISMARCK SECONDARY EDUCATION

Alexis Kuhn – Legacy High School

Alicia Overbeck – Horizon Middle School

Andrea Weikum – Horizon Middle School

Angela Myerchin – Horizon Middle School

Annmarie Decoteau – Horizon Middle School

Brittany Ramlo – Legacy High School

Cari Thompson – Simle Middle School

Evan Ericksmoen – Shiloh Christian School

Jackson Grad – Simle Middle School

Jeanne Metzger – Wachter Middle School

Jessica Schmeichel – Legacy High School

Joan Breitbach – Simle Middle School

Karmen Wahl – Bismarck High School

Kate Skibicki – Horizon Middle School

Kayla Ekart – Legacy High School

Kendall Bergrud – Wachter Middle School

Lauri Dschaak – Bismarck High School

Leah Wheeling – Simle Middle School

Margaux Braun – Legacy High School

Phill Harr – Legacy High School

Ross Baumgardner – Horizon Middle School

Sharol Hagen – St. Mary’s Academy

Wendy Hafner-Bakken – Bismarck High School

MANDAN SECONDARY EDUCATION

Alexis Rasset – Mandan High School

Chantel Williams – Mandan Middle School

Isaiah MacDonald – Mandan High School

James Gustafson – Mandan High School

Jamie Wenstrom – Mandan Middle School

Janae Miller – Mandan High School

Jurene Levadney – Mandan High School

Megan Schaff – Mandan High School

Seth Peterson – Mandan High School

Steven “Henry” Lau – Mandan High School

Taylor Hellman – Mandan Middle School

HIGHER EDUCATION

Alexander Mains – University of Mary

Katie Krukenberg – University of Mary

Kim Crowley – Bismarck State College

Michael Tomanek – Bismarck State College

Mike Chamberlain – Bismarck State College

Sarah Barreth – University of Mary

Shirley Wilson – Bismarck State College

William Fleck – United Tribes Technical College

THANK YOU SPONSORS: Presenting Sponsor: Award Sponsors:

Kyle Herman Agency

MAY 10

MAY 11

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN FIELD PROJECT PRESENTATIONS

Date: Wednesday, May 10 Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm

Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC — 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

MAY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: DAKOTA MEDIA ACCESS

Date: Thursday, May 11 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Dakota Media Access — 1101 E Front Ave, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

Stop by Dakota Media Access for an opportunity to meet and chat with other Chamber EDC members.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION

MAY 17

MAY 24

JUNE 1

JUNE 5

Date: Wednesday, May 17 Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Location: University of Mary — 7500 University Drive, Bismarck

Admission: $35 per person

Help us celebrate our Leadership Bismarck-Mandan graduates.

LEMONADE DAY KICK-OFF

Date: Wednesday, May 24 Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Location: Dakota Zoo — 602 Riverside Park Rd, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

Help us kickoff a sweet summer and register your young entrepreneurs for this free program!

JUNE LUNCH ON THE PATIO

Date: Thursday, June 1 Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Patio — 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

Kick off the Summer right by attending the first Lunch on the Patio for 2023.

CHAMBER EDC OUTDOOR GOLF SCRAMBLE

Date: Monday, June 5 Check-In: 10:30am - 11:30am

Location: Hawktree Golf Club – 3400 Burnt Creek, Bismarck

Admission: $175 per person/ $700 per team

JUNE 8

JUNE 14

Event Time: 11:30am - 5:00pm

This annual golf scramble is known to sell out quickly so don't wait to sign up you and your team.

JUNE MEMBERSHIP MIXER: STONEHOME BREWING COMPANY

Date: Thursday, June 8 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Stonehome Brewing Company – 1601 N 12th Street, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

Network with fellow Chamber EDC members on the Stonehome Brewing Company patio overlooking our beautiful community.

LEMONADE DAY KICK-OFF 2.0

Date: Wednesday, June 14 Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Location: Dakota Zoo — 602 Riverside Park Rd, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

Missed the first kick-off? No worries, come register your young entrepreneurs for this free program!

FORTUNE NAMES SANFORD HEALTH ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES

Fortune has named Sanford Health one of America’s Most Innovative Companies for 2023. The list honors 300 companies who do business in the United States and “transform industries inside and out.”

Sanford Health ranks in the top 200 and is the only South Dakota or North Dakota-based company recognized on the list, which includes businesses from a multitude of sectors across the United States. Other health care companies named to the list include Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, UnitedHealth Group, Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer.

“It is an honor for Sanford Health to be recognized among these pioneering companies that have had such a dramatic and influential impact on our lives,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “Innovation is central to our mission to deliver world-class care to our patients and residents no matter where they live or the challenges they face. We are also committed to investing in innovation to support our dedicated caregivers and strengthen resiliency.”

In the fall of 2021, Sanford Health announced a $350 million virtual care initiative. As part of the initiative, Sanford Health will focus on expanding access, improving the patient experience, advancing innovation through new research, attracting and training a new generation of clinicians and sharing learning opportunities through an education institute.

Sanford Health has already provided more than 650,000 virtual consults with patients over the last decade –amounting to roughly 25 million miles saved by patients who did not have to travel great distances on country roads or through harsh winter weather to get world-class care.

Sanford Health also has several innovative nursing initiatives that are empowering nurses to do their most fulfilling work including using predictive analytics to manage clinical staffing, leveraging technology to support patients at the bedside and automating workflows to build a more resilient workforce and improve patient care.

Sanford Health ranks in the top 25% among peers in the health care industry for meaningful work and inclusiveness as a strength based on employee experience survey results.

Fortune partnered with market research and data company Statista to compile America’s Most Innovative Companies. They reviewed more than 15,000 eligible companies to create the inaugural list. The list is built on three pillars: product innovation, process innovation, and innovation culture.

Each category compiles a third of the overall score. The surveys were conducted between Aug. 16, 2022 and Dec. 23, 2022 and reached thousands of employees and experts, including management consultants, patent attorneys, recruiters, and HR experts.

FIRST WESTERN INSURANCE NAMED A ‘CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE AGENCY’ BY WESTERN NATIONAL INSURANCE GROUP

Western National Insurance Group today announced that Minot, N.D.-based First Western Insurance has been named one of Western National’s Circle of Excellence Agencies for 2023.

The Western National Circle of Excellence recognition is announced annually to spotlight an elite group of partners who have excelled based on performance and growth over the past five years (2018 - 2022). An agency must also demonstrate that they meet high standards of professional excellence and integrity in order to be considered for this recognition. First Western Insurance’s place among this list is a testament to the overall quality of the agency’s insurance professionals and their commitment to meeting the needs of their insurance clients.

This recognition places First Western Insurance in the 90th percentile of all Western National partners for overall performance, growth, and partnership over the past five years.

Western National Insurance, headquartered in Edina, Minn., is a super-regional group of property-and-casualty insurance companies. The Group writes business through five active insurance companies—Western National Mutual Insurance Company, Western National Assurance Company, Pioneer Specialty Insurance Company, Umialik Insurance Company, and American Freedom Insurance Company — and is affiliated with Michigan Millers Mutual Insurance Company. Together, the affiliated Group writes over $800 million in personal and commercial direct premium in 19 states across the Northern, Midwestern, and Western U.S. as well as in Alaska; and surety bonds in 38 states. All of the companies’ products are sold exclusively through professional Independent Insurance Agents.

HEALTH PLANS THAT SHOW YOU MEAN BUSINESS.

BISMARCK CAREER ACADEMY RECEIVES FLIGHT SIMULATOR DONATION

The Bismarck Career Academy has received the generous donation of a Redbird Full Motion Flight Simulator from the K.G. Carpenter Foundation. The simulator was donated with hopes of providing greater access to training and exploration for students with an interest in the field of aviation.

As a result of the donation, the Bismarck Career Academy is now one of the only schools in the upper Midwest to offer students training opportunities with an onsite full motion flight simulator. The Redbird simulator is one of the few advanced aviation training devices that are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This FAA endorsement means that students who utilize the simulator with aviation technology instructors at the Career Academy may apply training time towards their pilot’s license. Under current regulations, 2.5 simulator hours count towards a private pilot license, 20 hours are applicable to instrument training, and 50 hours may be applied towards a commercial license. As a full motion simulator that offers a complete cockpit setup with functioning buttons and switches, students are offered deep immersion that physically feels very similar to flying a real aircraft. Recent snow storms experienced in the area inspired instructors to program weather conditions from the Bismarck region into the simulator, with students then attempting to land. Career Academy Director Dale Hoerauf stated, “I watched two students this morning fly the simulator in a snow storm and land. The sensation of the landing is exactly the same sensation you would feel in an airplane when the wheels touch down on the runway. You almost have to see to believe.”

The Redbird simulator will be an excellent addition to existing tools the Career Academy utilizes to help students learn – the facility is also one of the only in the country to own a certified airplane for students to fly. Student participation in the aviation program currently culminates with them attaining a private pilot license, but the ultimate goal of the aviation program is to allow students the opportunity to graduate with more pilot ratings and credentials. The district would like to express the most sincere gratitude to the K.G. Carpenter foundation for their generosity in helping to cultivate a future generations of aviators. Throughout the school year, the aviation program partners with the Bismarck Municipal Airport, the National Guard, and the Mandan airport to bring in speakers to educate students about jobs and opportunities within the field. The Redbird simulator will expand the meaningful aviation experience students receive at the Career Academy and help provide them with the foundation for potential post-graduation career paths.

The Bismarck Marathon presented by MDU Resources Group is looking for local businesses looking to get involved in this amazing community event through the Marathon Relay presented by BNSF Railway.

This opportunity to showcase your business against other businesses in town is not only a great way to give back to the community but also gives employees a fun team-building experience.

Teams are made up of five participants who run five different legs of the Full Marathon (26.2 miles) on Saturday, September 16. Legs vary in distance but average out to be approximately the distance of a 10K. The registration fee is $200 per team ($40/per person). Since the event is part of the Bismarck Marathon, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the registration fee can be a tax write-off for their business.

The winning corporate relay team will receive a $500 donation in their name to the charity of their choice on behalf of the Bismarck Marathon. Since 2007, the Bismarck Marathon has given back over $325,000 to local charities that support the race’s mission of benefiting youth, health, and wellness.

This competition is more than just a race. It's an opportunity to promote fitness, health, and community involvement in the Bismarck-Mandan area. Bring your team together, promote healthy competition, and show your community that your business is a leader in promoting health and wellness.

You can register your team now at thebismarckmarathon. com or by calling (701) 877-4386

Q: DO I NEED TO FORM AN LLC FOR MY NEW BUSINESS?

A: It depends. A limited liability company (LLC) is the most popular legal structure chosen for new businesses. The primary purpose of an LLC is to insulate the owners of the company from personal liability in the event any claims are brought against the business or its employees. So, for example, if your business is selling a product which is found to be defective and causes injury to persons or property, you, as an owner of the company, cannot be held personally liable for damages resulting therefrom. However, the limited liability protection afforded to owners of an LLC is not absolute. In order to preserve limited liability protection, owners of an LLC must ensure that certain business formalities are followed and treat the LLC as a separate and distinct entity.

If your business involves a higher level of risk or exposure due to the services or products being provided, a limited liability company is one of several business structures worth exploring. An experienced corporate attorney will be able to assist you with choosing the appropriate legal entity for your business and provide you with the tools and resources necessary to protect you from personal liability.

Q: HOW DO I ATTRACT THE RIGHT PART-TIME EMPLOYEES?

A: Finding part-time employees can be hard. That’s why using the right methods to attract part-time employees is important. Many employers spend countless hours recruiting, and many still fall short when it comes to hiring the right people. Here’s a few ways to help:

Get the Word Out. Finding the right platforms to promote jobs is critical. Every platform’s user base varies. LinkedIn may be good for more specialized roles whereas Indeed may attract candidates looking for a second-job or seasonal job.

Create Incentives. Design incentives and reward programs that make a part-time role feel like an actual job. This could be a raise schedule or bonus to reward employees who stay over a period of time. These rewards help attract and retain employees. Ask for Referrals. Current employees typically understand your company, the roles and skills needed. They may be able to help direct you toward candidates who would be a good fit. Referral candidates are typically better than those you find through traditional recruitment tactics.

Interested in a part-time job or know someone who is? Join the Larks seasonal team this summer! Contact Kaitlyn at kaitlyn@larksbaseball.com.

Q: IS THERE AN ABUNDANCE OF VACANT OFFICE SPACE IN BISMARCK/MANDAN?

A: After Covid hit and we retreated to our home offices to avoid contact, many lease tenants abandoned their space. Businesses realized that their employees could work remotely from home without an office. It was a pretty bleak outlook for office vacancies in 2020. Go back to 2012-2015 during the peak of the boom when office demand was high and developers constructed large quantities of commercial office space locally. Then the slow-down and the available vacant space was abundant with supply high and demand low. We conducted a survey in 2016 of all of the office space listed for lease by the Commercial Real Estate agencies and the total was over 808,000 square feet available. Not much office space has been built since then and we have been back-filling that space right up to 2020. Then Covid happened until July 2021, when people were fed-up with working from home. And requests started pouring in for office space, especially small offices of less than 2,000 SF. Those landlords that divided their large space into smaller offices leased them. And now small and large office space up to 5,000 square feet is leasing again. Today’s available space is 342,000 square feet. We work every day matching tenants to great spaces. We’d welcome your call at (701) 222-0232 or email to george@ risepropertybrokers.com.

DR. KREOFSKY at

MCKENZIE KELLY at

DAVE REIS at

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

Q: HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH PROSTATE CANCER AND WILL SOON START RADIATION TREATMENT. WHAT OPTIONS DO I HAVE TO MINIMIZE SIDE EFFECTS OF RADIATION?

A: Radiation therapy can be extremely effective in treating prostate cancer, but as with any procedure, there are potential side effects. The Bismarck Cancer Center is excited to provide additional information on a procedure when treating men with prostate cancer. SpaceOAR Hydrogel is used during prostate cancer radiotherapy, creating a protective barrier between the prostate and rectum. It has been clinically proven to reduce the risk of rectal/lower GI side effects during and after radiation treatment. SpaceOAR Hydrogel is an FDAcleared gel-like synthetic material placed during a minimally invasive injection between the prostate and the rectum before the start of external beam radiation treatments. SpaceOAR Hydrogel stays in place, separating the prostate and rectum. After about six months, the hydrogel is naturally absorbed into the body and removed in the urine. SpaceOAR is a common option for doctors and individuals treated with radiation therapy for prostate cancer. For more information, visit their website at spaceoar.com.

Q: I HAVE A WEBSITE BUT I DON’T REALLY DO ANYTHING WITH IT. SHOULD I?

A: Have you ever visited a website that was outdated, difficult to navigate, and overall left you wondering if you were even in the right place? If so, you probably left it quicker than anticipated and hopped over to a competitor’s website.

According to Forbes, it takes 0.05 seconds for users to form an opinion about your website - with this opinion ultimately influencing whether they stay or leave. If they remain on your website, they will be impacted by the readability, usability, and overall design, all of which directly reflects your business’ credibility. Another thing for business owners to be mindful of is how their target market is viewing their website - typically on their phones. With roughly 51% of web traffic coming from mobile devices, it’s vital to make sure visitors have a smooth mobile experience, too.

It’s more important than ever to find a way to stand out amongst the crowd of competitors – and we’re here to help you build a website that does just that! Email info@ hexahive.co to schedule your free consultation.

1519 Continental Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-751-7400

Q: WHAT IS A PROJECT IN THE COMMUNITY ROERS HAS COMPLETED RECENTLY?

A: Roers has partnered with Capital Credit Union for a renovation. The project consisted of redoing all four floors. Major work was done on the first floor with a complete demo of the new lobby. New teller lines and offices are two key features to the project.

The project is in the final stages and Capital Credit Union is able to occupy the remodeled areas now. The project was completed two months early.

Roers is proud of the partnership we have created with Capital Credit Union and uphold our promise of delivering the project on time and within budget. We look forward to continuing to Build Success in the Bismarck and Mandan communities.

811 E Interstate Ave, Ste B, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-409-0488

TRIO JOINS DCN TECHNICAL TEAM

Dakota Carrier Network (DCN) has hired two new employees Nathan Briggs and Andrew Geigle, and team member Tara Taylor has assumed a new role.

Briggs, Geigle, and Taylor are all serving as Ethernet/IP technician I. As such, they are part of the Network Operations Center team, supporting DCN’s state-of-the-art carrier Ethernet and IP networks.

Briggs has worked as an information systems specialist in the mining industry since 2016. He has worked in a variety of areas including server and network administration, network design, system security, and technical support. Briggs earned an associate degree in computer information systems from Bismarck State College and a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from the University of Mary in Bismarck.

Geigle has been an information systems maintainer for the U.S. Army/North Dakota National Guard since 2017. Duties have included work with information systems and equipment, managing networks, operating diagnostic equipment, and ensuring continuity of power to equipment. With the NDNG, Geigle completed Advanced Individual Training in network management. He is currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in cyber security systems through Southern New Hampshire University.

Taylor joined DCN in 2015 as an application administrator and late in 2021 shifted to application analyst. Her previous roles at DCN included responsibilities for administering software applications to create reports based on statistical information, configuring and maintaining network monitoring, and creating and maintaining custom dashboards for external and internal users. Prior to joining DCN, she served as a technical support trainer and application analyst. Taylor earned an associate degree in computer support from Bismarck State College and is a certified MEF Carrier Ethernet Certified Professional (CECP).

MISSOURI SLOPE ANNOUNCES THREE POSITION CHANGES

Missouri Slope is pleased to announce three position changes in the Ancillary Departments.

Jayne Hovland has taken on the new role of Vice President of Ancillary Services. Jayne has been at Missouri Slope since 1995 and has over 35 years of experience in the long-term-care field. Prior to stepping into her new role, Jayne was the Director of Nutritional Services.

Loren Fuhrer has accepted the position of Director of Environmental Services. Loren has been at Missouri Slope for 16 years. He began as a tray carrier, transitioned to cook assistant, then became a cook before taking on the position of Nutritional Services Personnel manager in 2020.

Delanie Anderson has accepted the Director of Nutritional Services role at Missouri Slope. Delanie graduated from NDSU in 1996 with a degree in Food and Nutrition. Her experience at Missouri Slope began in 1995 working as a dietary aide. From there she became a clinical dietitian and Assistant Director of Nutritional Services before beginning her new role as Director of Nutritional Services.

SANFORD HEALTH WELCOMES NEW RHEUMATOLOGIST

Nowarat Songsiridej, MD, has joined the internal medicine team at the Sanford Northern Sky Clinic in Bismarck, North Dakota.

Dr. Songsiridej received her medical degree from Siriraj Medical School in Bangkok, Thailand and completed her residency in internal medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. She is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine for rheumatology and internal medicine.

BPS WELCOMES NEW STAFF

Bismarck Public Schools is pleased to announce that the following staff members have been selected to serve as principals for the 2023-2024 school year:

Sharon Espeland has been named principal of Wachter Middle School. She will be replacing current principal Lee Ziegler, who will be retiring at the end of this school year.

Ms. Espeland is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, with a degree in Social Studies education. She holds a master’s degree from Minnesota State, Moorhead, in Counseling and Student Development and an administrative credential from the University of Mary. She began her career teaching and coaching 7-12 grade students in Brooklyn Center, MN. Currently, she is an assistant principal at Century High School in Bismarck, where she previously taught and coached. Ms. Espeland is pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership through the University of St. Thomas.

Christopher Narum has been named an elementary principal. His future building assignment is yet to be determined.

Mr. Narum has over twelve years of experience with the district in multiple roles, including instructional aide, counselor, and assistant principal. He previously has worked at Miller, Grimsrud, Roosevelt, Centennial, and Liberty. He currently serves as the assistant principal of Northridge Elementary School.

Jessica Nichols has been named an elementary principal. Her future building assignment is yet to be determined.

Ms. Nichols holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Dickinson State University, and a master’s in Education Leadership from the University of Mary. She began her teaching career with Bismarck Public Schools 16 years ago at Moses Elementary. During this time Ms. Nichols has been an instructional aide, elementary teacher, middle school teacher, volleyball head coach, and assistant principal. Ms. Nichols is currently in her seventh year as an assistant principal at Simle Middle School.

Nathan Briggs

Andrew Geigle

Jayne Hovland

Loren Fuhrer

Delanie Anderson

Sharon Espeland

Christopher Narum

Tara Taylor

Nowarat Songsiridej

Jessica Nichols

Sydney Kopp

KIRKWOOD BANK & TRUST WELCOMES KOPP AND MALSAM

Kirkwood Bank & Trust is pleased to announce Sydney Kopp and Randi Malsam have recently joined our team.

Sydney Kopp, a Mandan native, has been named Compliance Officer. She earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from Dickinson State University. Sydney has been in the financial industry since 2015, and was most recently a bank examiner before joining our team.

Randi Malsam recently joined our team as a Loan Assistant. Randi is a Bismarck native, but grew up in Gillette, Wyoming. She has been in the financial industry since 2015. She graduated with both Associate of Arts and Associate of Science from Bismarck State College in 2011.

DAHL RECEIVES BEHAVIORAL FINANCIAL ADVISOR DESIGNATION

Travis Dahl, BFATM, APMATM a financial advisor with Legacy Financial Partners, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Bismarck recently obtained the Behavioral Financial Advisor professional designation from Kaplan University and think2perform®.

Dahl successfully completed the rigorous requirements, including training and an examination, teaching ways to mentor clients in their financial decisions and increase the value provided in a holistic advice relationship. The program emphasizes how financial decisions are influenced by psychology and neuroscience.

Dahl graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in Investments. He has nice years of experience in the financial services industry.

TOMLINSON NAMED PRINCIPAL AT MANDAN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Mandan Public School District is excited to announce that Amanda Tomlinson has been named Principal at Mandan Middle School. Tomlinson will replace Ryan Leingang, who was named Principal at the district’s Fort Lincoln Elementary. Tomlinson is a current assistant principal at Mandan Middle School, a position she has held since 2018. Prior to her current position, she was a middle school teacher for Bismarck Public Schools for 10 years.

Tomlinson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science Education from Dickinson State University (2007) and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of North Dakota (2014). She is currently pursuing an advanced degree of Educational Specialists in Educational Leadership through Liberty University.

MAY LIVE GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

Provided on Government Access cable channels 2 & 602HD FreeTV.org, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV Radio Access 102.5FM and RadioAccess.org

Mon, 1st 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission 5:30 pm Mandan School Board *

Tues, 2nd 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

Thurs, 4th 5:00 pm Bismarck Board of Adjustment *

Fri, 5th 9:00 am Bismarck-Burleigh Commission Comte. *

Mon, 8th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board * 5:30 pm Mandan Park Board *

Tues, 9th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 10th 8:00 am Burleigh Water Resource District * 5:15 pm Burleigh Planning & Zoning

Thurs, 11th 9:00 am Bismarck Parking Authority * 4:00 pm Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority *

Mon, 15th 10:00 am Met. Planning Org. – Tech Advisory Comte. * 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission 5:30 pm Mandan School Board *

School Board * 5:30 pm Mandan Planning & Zoning *

Tues, 23rd 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 24th 5:00 pm Bismarck Planning & Zoning

Meetings are replayed on Government Access channels and are archived online at FreeTV.org

* Not available on Radio Access

Randi Malsam

Travis Dahl

Amanda Tomlinson

Ribbon cuttings are conducted by a committee of Chamber EDC 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 find out how you can get a free ribbon cutting from the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC, please call Ross at 701-223-5660.

701-955-3921. Member.

701-663-2345. Member.

OF EVENTS

For more information on these events visit bismarckcancercenter.com

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

June 3

June 3

June 15

June 26

June 26

July 2-4

July 4

July 29

Carz-n-Cures

Tractor Trek

BCCF Charity Golf Open

BCC Night at the Larks

Survivorship Celebration

Mandan Rodeo Days

Mandan 4th of July Road Race

Blue Grass Goes Pink

Mandan Tennis Center celebrates its Grand Opening at 520 16th Street NE in Mandan. Phone: 701-751-0809.

MANDAN TENNIS CENTER

Alpha Lit celebrates becoming a member of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC. Phone:

ALPHA LIT - BISMARCK

KNDR celebrating their acquisition of their new Christian Country radio station KXRP “Heartland” 91.3FM Broadcasting from Mandan. Phone:

KNDR / KXRP - FM RADIO

Send It! 24/7 Cornhole celebrating their Grand Opening of their Cornhole recreation facility with full-service bar located at 1700 E Main Street in Mandan. Phone: 701-202-0119. Member.

The Chamber EDC 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 EDC. Please consider them for your professional and personal needs. To find a complete listing of Chamber EDC members, view the Member Directory online at www.bismarckmandan.com.

Lander Group

500 N 3rd Street

Bismarck, ND 58501

701-595-0067

Gail Mollner

Lander Group is a Minneapolis based real estate development firm specializing in urban infill projects. Known for creating thriving urban spaces where people live, work and play, Lander Group incorporates time-tested principles of urban planning, high quality design and construction, and a commitment to the public realm into commercial, residential and mixed use developments that reflect the unique character of the neighborhoods in which they are located.

Renaissance Lofts and The Grove Apartment Homes are Lander Group’s newest additions to the downtown Bismarck community.

Founder Michael Lander has held planning roles for many major new urban developments. Michael has led the way in forming new approaches to building liveable communities and has received awards and recognition for his work from the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHA), American Institute of Architects, Minneapolis Historic Preservation Commission, Saint Paul Heritage Preservation Commission, Committee on Urban Environment, and is one of the original signers of the Charter of the Congress for the New Urbanism.

Dakota Printing & Embroidery LLC

3138 N 10th Street, Ste 2

Bismarck, ND 58503

701-471-0401

Mike Samuelson

Custom garment printing and embroidery shop located in Bismarck, ND. Our dedicated staff members have over 60 years of combined industry experience providing quality garment decorating in North Dakota

Capital City Young Guns

12951 71st Ave NE

Bismarck, ND 58503

701-527-0007

Scott McCarthy

Capital City Young Guns is a 501(c)(3) organization that was created to teach youth gun safety and how to shoot clay targets for recreation or competition. Capital City Young Guns provides instruction.

Big Dog Beverages/Big Dog Distillery

307 S 3rd Street

Bismarck, ND 58504

701-751-8454

Scott Beierle

Distillery and Tiki Bar Tasting Room

Fettig Millwork & Windows, Inc.

800 W Main Street

Mandan, ND 58554

Janelle Fettig

701-751-0407

We do sales and service for all home improvement projects plus outdoor spaces!

Send It! 24/7 Cornhole

1700 E Main Street

Mandan, ND 58554

701-202-0119

Jedidiah Geer

Cornhole recreation facility with full service bar.

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Connection

1640 Burnt Boat Drive

Bismarck, ND 58503

UPCOMING CHAMBER EDC EVENTS

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN FIELD PROJECT PRESENTATIONS

Date: Wednesday, May 10, 2023

BISMARCK MANDAN

Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm

Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC – 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

MAY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: DAKOTA MEDIA ACCESS

Date: Thursday, May 11, 2023

Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Dakota Media Access – 1101 E Front Ave, Bismarck

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION

Date: Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Location: University of Mary – 7500 University Drive, Bismarck

LEMONADE DAY KICK-OFF

Date: May 24, 2023 • Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm

Location: Dakota Zoo – 602 Riverside Park Road, Bismarck

LUNCH ON THE PATIO

Date: Thursday, June 1, 2023

Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Location: Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Patio – 1640 Burnt Boat Drive, Bismarck

CHAMBER EDC GOLF SCRAMBLE

Date: Monday, June 5, 2023

Check-In: 10:30am - 11:30am Time: 11:30am - 5:00pm

Location: Hawktree Golf Club – 3400 Burnt Creek Loop, Bismarck