December Connection

HOLIDAYS IN BISMARCK-MANDAN

Kevin Strege

Wendy Van Duyne

Matt Sagaser

Valerie Weigel

Dave Ehlis

Evan Anderson

Andrea Birst

Nathan Boehm

Dave Ehlis

Fred Fridley

Heather Jones

Joe Camisa

Becky Matthews

Allan Miller

Lee Pierce

Marnie Piehl

Mike Remboldt

Dave Rogstad

Matt Sagaser

Mike Schmitz

Garret Senger

Kevin Strege

Wendy Van Duyne

Valerie Weigel

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair

Brian Ritter

Nate Brown......................................................Sales Coordinator

Maggie Byrd

Coordinator

Past Chair

Treasurer

Spa & Salon

County

Bank

Health

Air Mechanical

of Mandan

County

Inc.

Architects

Inc.

Starion Bank

Bobcat

of Bismarck

Utilities Co.

Foundations

Consulting Services Inc.

Electric Power Cooperative

Parker Decoteau

Ross Frohlich

Chamber EDC Intern

President Cathryn Sprynczynatyk

My final column as Chair of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC is much like the role - overwhelming, satisfying and filled with optimism. Each month, the Chair’s Column has been a chance to inform the membership of the important and impactful work done by volunteers and staff behind the scenes. We see the events and mixers highlighted in The Connection and the Link and 2022 has shown a dramatic increase in attendance, demonstrating our member engagement. However, it is often the less advertised events where the CEDC shapes the future of our community.

Economic development has been the most frequent topic of this year’s columns as we developed a broad strategic plan. We are now in the process of implementing actions that will develop over years and enhance our community for decades. Work force is a longstanding challenge with no obvious solution on the horizon, but with new and innovative approaches in the plan to be vetted. Refocusing on attracting businesses, fine tuned to the current economy’s drivers and our strengths, will revi talize our efforts with the greatest probability of success and community return. Many other opportunities are defined in the plan and will be vetted, prioritized and in some cases handed off to be led by other entities or coalitions. This plan is about the future of our community, not just the CEDC’s role.

Facilitating communication among our political subdivisions and between the business community and the political subdivisions is ongoing, important, and always changing. Topics or issues are addressed and sometimes resolved; new topics emerge. Often those new topics have been years in the making and addressing them is a powerful message that we are making progress. Our elected officials welcome the CEDC as that intermediary, bridging divides and facilitating collaborative solutions. This is an extremely positive indicator of the drive among our local officials to build the communi ty’s future together.

Top of mind is the upcoming legislative session and the tremendous relationship with our local delegation. Our mem bers are active, our positions are respected, and our role is one of resource and support. The history of the CEDC has created mutual respect which amplifies our voice through our legislators.

The wide variety of topics that come to the CEDC in any given week is stunning. We are a trusted resource sought out by local and external contacts and we fill that role, making intro ductions, facilitating meetings, directing to experts, and where appropriate taking on new challenges. We are a nimble and evolving organization focusing on the future of our communi ty, and each board member or volunteer gives freely of their time and expertise for the betterment of all. I am appreciative and humbled to have served as Chair, entrusted to steer the ship for a time and confident in the ongoing leadership which will continue to successfully navigate in the best interests of our members and our community.

Chair

Kevin Strege,

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

HOLIDAY EVENTS FOSTER FUN AND TRADITION

IN BISMARCK-MANDAN

By Mary Cole, Clearwater Communications

The holidays are a special time in Bismarck-Mandan for both residents and businesses, who come together for a number of unique events across the community. From long-time traditions to new events, below are some of the ways to experience the holiday spirit in the community this season.

KIRKWOOD MALL

The Kirkwood Mall’s Santa set, kicked off with the Black Friday Santa Parade, is open for families to visit Santa every afternoon and evening through Christmas Eve. Special events also welcome visitors to the mall throughout the holiday season. Each Saturday, a different princess joins Santa for photos, balloon twisting and other activities. For furry friends, each Monday night from 4-7 p.m. is pet photo night with Santa.

While at the mall, it is also easy to complete Christmas shopping with a focus on local businesses. Almost half of the stores in the Kirkwood Mall are North Dakota-owned, and floor clings mark each of these stores through December, “just to help people shop local during the holiday season,” says Mikalah Auer, Kirkwood Mall marketing director.

A personalized ornaments stand is one of the many businesses that temporarily move into the mall for the season. In addition, weekend vendor shows bring in local artisans and small businesses to display and sell their goods.

Jennifer Wilson, general manager at Kirkwood Mall, says the Santa parade and subsequent events have become part of the local community tradition. “It gives me goosebumps just talking about it,” she says, “That’s one we see very traditionally attended by customers. They’re grateful to create these memories with their family.”

Find more information about holiday events at the Kirkwood Mall visit www.shopkirkwoodmall.com.

Photo Credit: Kirkwood Mall

Almost half of the stores located within the Kirkwood Mall are North Dakota-owned businesses.

PRIDE OF DAKOTA HOLIDAY SHOWCASE

Another great place to shop local for the holidays is the Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcase, Dec. 2 and 3, at the Bismarck Event Center. Pride of Dakota is an identifiable state brand that designates products as made in North Dakota. “Pride of Dakota Showcases are another market for members, and some of them earn a large part of their annual income through them,” says Doug Goehring, North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner.

The Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcase was first held in Fargo in 1993, and a Bismarck location was added the following year. “The showcases are not only a commercial event but a social one as well,” Goehring says. “Families and friends often travel considerable distances to spend the day sampling and buying Pride of Dakota products.”

Pride of Dakota members’ products vary widely and so do the offerings at the showcase. “Shoppers will find thousands of products to choose from, including gourmet food, wine and spirits, books, jewelry, apparel, pottery, quilting, photography and framed art, children’s items and more,” Goehring says. “There are typically over 250 businesses at the Bismarck show, as well as a real-bearded Santa for photos and Pride Inc.’s celebration of trees.”

Learn more about the Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcase at www. prideofdakota.nd.gov.

CAPITAL CITY CHRISTMAS

Another Santa-themed event is the annual Capital City Christmas Breakfast with Santa. On Nov. 25, families enjoyed a hot breakfast and a chat with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as holiday-themed face painting, crafts and activities, and indoor bounce houses at the Bismarck Event Center. “This is a great event for families with kids of all ages,” says Wendy Bakken, Capital City Christmas board member. “Our Santa is the real deal,” she says. “And kids can run around and bounce while they’re waiting in line.”

That evening, the Tree Lighting Ceremony was held at nearby Peace Park, beginning with Santa’s arrival. “Santa comes riding down 4th Street – it’s spectacular,” says Bakken.

After the ceremony is complete, a Holiday Mingle kicked off with free snacks and hot cocoa. “It’s a good way to end the day and really a kickoff to Christmas,” Bakken adds. “We’ve had really positive feedback about this. Especially during [COVID-19] and still now, it’s been a great way to connect the community.”

Capitol City Christmas also hosts a New Year’s Eve Gala on December 31 at 8 p.m. This black-tie event serves as the organization’s largest fundraiser. The 2022 Gala is a 1920s theme, with live music, dancing and stations of food from around the world. “Stonehome brews a beer specifically for our event,” Bakken says, “And at the end of the night, we have fireworks.”

Funds raised from ticket sales and the night’s auctions support future holiday events, as well as “grants for local nonprofit organizations who support arts and humanities,” notes Bakken. Learn more about Capital City Christmas at www. capitalcitychristmasnd.com.

Capital City Christmas caps off six week's worth of holiday activities with the New Year's Eve Gala on December 31.

Get your Christmas shopping done early at the Pride of Dakota Showcase on December 2 & 3.

Photo Credit: Capital City Christmas

Photo Credit: Department of Agriculture

MANDAN PROGRESS ORGANIZATION

The organization behind some of Mandan’s most beloved events is bringing a new holiday celebration to downtown Mandan. Holiday Lights on Main is a new lights display spanning three blocks of downtown Mandan from the Morton Mandan Public Library to Heritage Park, and is open every night from 5-10 p.m. through Jan. 7.

“We’re really focused on those unique experiences that bring people to the community,” says Matt Schanandore, executive director of the Mandan Progress Organization. “The new light setup is really bigger than life. It isn’t just a drive-by attraction, it’s a get out and walk around experience to feel the magic of the holidays through a Christmas display.”

Local businesses have sponsored various nights to provide concessions or other items, while Mix 92.9 plays Christmas music throughout the park.

Schanandore hopes this event will become part of the community’s holiday traditions. “Our hope is to span the test of time, and this is something that will be a unique winter holiday attraction that draws people to downtown Mandan.”

He says he also hopes to see the display expand with time. “We foresee this becoming a much larger attraction,” he adds.

Admission to the park is free, though guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to local nonprofits. “It’s really important for part of this to be giving back to the community,” Schanandore says.

The Mandan Progress Organization is also thrilled for the return of Santa during Santa's Arrival on Friday, November 25th!

Start the day welcoming Santa to town as he travels down Main Street at 12:30. Children are invited to share Christmas wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Morton Mandan Public Library. We have a variety of Mandan merchants offering Shop Small Saturday deals.

For more information, visit www.visitmandan.com.

Photo Credit: Mandan Progress Organization

Photo Credit: LPT Images

New to downtown Mandan is the Holiday Lights on Main which officially opened on November 24.

Santa returned to Mandan during Santa's Arrival on November 25.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOURS

During the holiday season, Executive Air and Bismarck Aero Center take light tours to new heights. “If you love to drive the streets [to see] the displays of lights, you will truly enjoy the all-encompassing perspective you get from a thousand feet in the air,” says Clint May, lead certified flight instructor at the Bismarck Aero Center.

Kim Sauter, sales and marketing director at Executive Air, notes the company’s tours are popular with “dating couples, grandparents and grandkids, or even businesses that want something different for employees or clients.”

Both companies offer the ability to personalize tours to fly over customers’ houses or neighborhoods. “Getting to see the city from the vantage point of Santa and his reindeer leaves a lasting memory for everyone who partakes,” says May.

Bismarck Aero Center offers 30-minute Christmas light tours for up to two passengers for $125, and Executive Air offers 30-minute tours for two to three passengers for $50 per passenger. To make reservations, contact Executive Air at 701-258-5024 or Bismarck Aero Center at 701-223-4754.

For a unique experience seeing the lights from the ground, Nightlife Limousine offers driving tours in a variety of vehicles, from limousines to party buses. “We see families, couples and large groups of friends who just want to enjoy each other's company listening to Christmas music looking at all the lights. It's a very special thing to get your family and friends together and enjoy a nice night of touring lights, which turns into a tradition for a lot of families.” For reservations, call 701-222-0202.

Photo Credit: Chmielewski's Christmas Corner Facebook

THE IMPORTANCE OF SHOPPING LOCAL: SMALL BUSINESSES THRIVE ON LOCAL SUPPORT

By Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications

Ask a small business owner what is important to their businesses’ success, and they will often say support from the local community. “People are definitely moving toward shopping locally and supporting local businesses,” says Melanie Lennie, owner and lead designer at Beyond the Blooms in Mandan. “I have a large walk-in group of customers that always come in person.”

With the rising popularity of online shopping, local support is becoming even more important to many small businesses in the Bismarck-Mandan community. “There are so many online services that are not brick and mortar stores, and those can be harmful to our industry,” Lennie notes, adding these services may be lower in price but often carry additional fees, lack personal service and hide unknowns in product quality. “Flower shops are a lot of online shopping, with people out of town sending locally, but we can still provide that one-on-one, personal relationship through our online store.”

Tammy Wahl, owner of Uptowne Loft Boutique in Bismarck, says her store, which she owns with her daughter, Kalene Ell, started online and then moved to a storefront. “People still love coming in and feeling and trying on the clothes, but we have our customers who still shop online,” Wahl notes.

During the holidays, Wahl says Uptowne Loft Boutique sees more customers shopping in store and looking for local gifts. “There are a lot of new people we see that are asking for local products, and it starts earlier each year,” she notes. “We hand pick everything in our store and customers are getting help from us personally. We know the quality of our product.”

Lennie says Beyond the Blooms, which has been in business for four years, sees more customers in store during the holidays because of workshops and events hosted at the store. “People want to do these things during the holidays and want to get together as a group when they can,” she notes.

Throughout the year, Wahl says, it is also important to her to support other local businesses in the community. “We know how hard it is to build a business from the ground up,” she notes. “It definitely takes a village to keep a small business open.”

Uptowne Loft, located within the Kirkwood Mall, has seen a higher demand for more local products.

Lennie agrees, noting most small businesses in BismarckMandan are “mom and pop” establishments that also want to support the community. “Having the community support us is so important, because then we can give back to the community and support those other businesses and organizations in town,” she says. “By supporting the families that are running small businesses, it gives them the opportunity to give back.”

Both business owners say the challenges they are currently facing as small businesses include supply chain issues, supply cost increases and workforce. “Small businesses are definitely struggling with the supply chain and cost of supplies,” says Lennie. “We haven’t seen these types of price increases in 10 to 15 years.”

“Last year, our product wasn’t coming in very quickly, but our customers remained loyal,” says Wahl of the challenges. “This year, it is trying to find people to work.”

While the holidays bring in more customers to shop local, Lennie says it remains important to continue to support community businesses throughout the year. “People are always going to shop online.

Walmart, Amazon and Etsy, they are all there. We just have to do our best to make people want to visit us,” she says. “We want to keep businesses going and strong, and we don’t want to see anymore close. We may be a little more expensive than online, but we give back to our community.”

says the community has been instrumental to the success of Uptowne Loft Boutique. “We have continued to grow over the past seven years, and our customers have supported us from day one and they still do,” she notes. “I want to thank our community and our loyal customers that have

Wahl

supported us from the beginning.”

Melanie Lennie, owner of Beyond the Blooms in Mandan, says it's important to have community support because then it allows them

back to the community.

DAWISE-PERRY/MANDAN CREMATORY

Tell us about yourself and your role within your business.

A: My name is David Wise, I am the Owner and operator of DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory. I am a North Dakota native and have strong ties to the community and state. I originally purchased Perry Funeral Home in 2011 from Joe Perry. I have over 28 years in the Funeral Industry serving families at their time of need.

MEMBER SINCE 1992

Briefly tell us the history behind DaWise-Perry Mandan Crematory and how you got started.

A: Since 1912, Perry Funeral Home, and now DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory, has been offering full-service funerals and attending to the needs of our community with compassion, care, and efficiency. Our family-owned business prides itself on growing with the families it serves and having deep roots in the community. Embracing both traditional values and diversity in honoring the individual spirit.

DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory has been a Chamber EDC member since 1992.

David Wise

How has the growth of Bismarck-Mandan impacted DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory?

A: As the community and region has grown so has our business. In 2019 we expanded and built the first Crematory in Mandan. Our new facility is state of the art, bridging traditional offerings with modern technology, such as digital forms and other technology.

What trends are taking place in your industry?

A: As we all know the last few years have been challenging in our country, state, and community with the pandemic. We took that time and reflected on the importance of service and being able to offer families a wide range of choices and options, while still remaining affordable. Cremation has become a more common choice, and our new location was built with the highest quality equipment and is the only on-site crematory in Mandan.

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

A: As mentioned in the previous answer, the pandemic was a monumental change for a period of time in how we as Funeral Directors were able to serve families. But in this industry and profession it is a calling, and we were there for our families every step throughout.

What does the future DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory look like and the industry as a whole look like to you?

A: The future for DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory is one of growth while remembering and honoring our roots. As our business grows and changes we always keep our guiding principles in mind. We are in the service industry and guide people through a very difficult time.

DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory became a member in 1992, why do you continue to renew?

A: I believe the Chamber EDC promotes and enhances the welfare of business and stimulates economic vitality in the area. The resources and networking is beneficial and we view it as an asset to be a member of.

What should other Chamber EDC members know about DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory that may assist them?

A: DaWise Perry Mandan Crematory is a independent and locally owned and operated business. We are stewards in the community and are always interested in collaborating with others to make our community thrive. Small business is critically important for our communities and we thank our customers for their trust in us.

CHAMBER EDC STAFF TOURS NEW GATEWAY TO SCIENCE FACILITY

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC staff got a sneak peek at the new North Dakota’s Gateway to Science Center. While the building is still under construction it will more than double the space available in the old building, allowing for more exhibits, activities, classes, and even areas available to be rented by the public.

The North Dakota’s Gateway to Science Center is sched uled to have a soft open at the end of February for members, and a public grand opening in March.

To learn more about the new Gateway to Science facility and activities and classes check their website at gateway toscience.org.

BUSINESS PITCH APPLICATION OPEN

Entries are open for Mandan’s fifth Business Pitch Challenge scheduled for March 23, 2023. Prizes include the chance to be eligible for up to a $10,000 forgivable loan from the Mandan Growth Fund plus other cash awards, services and mer chandise useful to new businesses. The competition overview, prize list and application are posted at www.cityofmandan. com/businesspitch.

The Mandan Tomorrow - Economic Opportunity and Prosperity Committee is hosting the challenge to assist prospective and start-up businesses in fine-tuning ideas and plans to secure investment, financing and other support needed to advance businesses from concept to launch, form early stage to success and profitability.

Application deadline is January 26th.

Chamber EDC staff got a tour of the new North Dakota Gateway to Science.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OF THE MONTH

The SBA 504 LOAN PROGRAM provides long-term, fixed rate financing for major fixed assets that promote business growth and job creation.

504 loans are available through Certified Development Companies (CDCs), SBA's community-based partners who regulate nonprofits and promote economic devel opment within their communities. CDCs are certified and regulated by the SBA. Bismarck Mandan has two CDC options through Dakota Business Lending and the Lewis & Clark Development Group.

The program is meant to reduce the upfront cost of a project. For questions regarding the SBA 504 loan program or any business assistance programs contact Nathan at the Chamber EDC.

BISMARCK MANDAN FEATURED

Bismarck Mandan was re cently featured in Expansion Solutions. The publication is an economic develop ment trade publication and viewed by site selectors and company executives across the country. BismarckMandan was a part of a North Dakota spotlight in the issue.

The article highlighted Bismarck-Mandan’s pro gressive higher education institutions, available resourc es, and quality of life amenities. The Expansion Solutions article will be in the November/December issue.

CITY OF MANDAN WINS GOVERNOR'S MAIN STREET EXCELLENCE AWARD

Gov. Doug Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford announced on Oct. 26 the recip ients of the 2022 Governor’s Main Street Awards during the closing event for the 2022 Main Street ND Summit.

The Governor’s Main Street Awards are a collaborative effort of the Office of Gover nor and the North Dakota Department of Commerce. A selection committee made up of collaborating agencies and part ners evaluated entries to determine final awards.

Mandan won the Main Street Excellence Award for communities with a population greater than 5,000. This award recog nized Mandan's Main Street for creating a vibrant and engaging environment by focusing on downtown revitalization.

The City of Mandan accepted the Governor's Main Street Excellence Award in October.

REGISTER FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SERIES

Join us for the next virtual Chamber EDC Business Develop ment Series (BDS) on Tuesday, Dec. 6th from 10:00am–11:00am via Micro soft Teams.

This latest edition of BDS will feature Small Business Admin istration (SBA) District Director Al Haut, who will provide an overview of SBA programs including what free resources from SBA can help you start, grow, and expand your small business; how to access SBA’s various lending programs; and how SBA can help you get into government contracting with the most up to date information on SBA Loan Programs, new developments and more. There will also a Q&A and discussion following the presentation.

All previous editions of BDS are FREE for all Chamber EDC Members to access online in our professional development section. To register, please contact Lyndsey at (701) 2235660 or RSVP online at www.bismarckmandan.com

WE'RE HIRING –JOIN OUR TEAM!

Do you or someone you know have a passion for seeing Bismarck Mandan continue to grow?

Our Business Development and Marketing Coordina tor’s primary job role is to assist the Chamber EDC in growing our business com munity. This job is one-of-akind where you get paid to help businesses!

As the Business Development and Marketing Coordinator, your role would be to focus on assisting businesses grow their presence in Bismarck Mandan by assessing their needs and identifying resources and programs to help.

Other duties include:

• Developing and distributing marketing pieces as part of our business attraction efforts

• Analyze impacts of economic development marketing efforts

• Develop and maintain economic developmentrelated content on the Chamber EDC’s website

• Conduct business visits to learn about opportunities and concerns of local businesses

• Working with new and expanding businesses

If you are a person who enjoys a fast-paced fun environment and favors working on a smaller team with a family-style culture, then this job is for you! This person will make connections and build relationships with business leaders across Bismarck Mandan.

You can apply by sending a resume and cover letter to Nathan Schneider at nschneider@bmcedc.com

To learn more about this position you can visit the job post ing found on our website at www.bismarckmandan.com on the “Job Postings” section under the “News & Media” tab.

Kickoff the new year with the first Chamber EDC event of 2023! The Chamber EDC Indoor Golf Tournament will take place on Friday, January 13th, 2023, at Golf Etc. (511 Airport Road, Bismarck). Don’t wait to sign up, as number of spots available is limited!

On this Friday, two-person teams will compete in a 9-hole tournament over the following flights.

3 FLIGHT TIMES

• Flight One: 12:00pm

• Flight Two: 2:00pm

• Flight Three: 4:00pm

$150 for a team of two and $75 for an individual player. Entry fees include: Pizza and one free drink per player, along with the chance to win one of three big door prizes!

Don’t have a team put together? No worries! We’ll get you connected with a teammate for the tournament!

Contact Maggie Byrd, mbyrd@bmcedc.com, or call the Chamber EDC, 701-223-5660,

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN AGRICULTURE & ENERGY DAY

AGRICULTURE DAY

The class started Agriculture Day at Bismarck State College. Assistant Professor of Agriculture, Marko Davinic, provided a presentation on modern ag practices and sustainability in agriculture. The class then had presentations from Harlee Kilber and Nicole Wardner who presented on Farm Management and Beef production respectively.

The class then traveled out to Menoken Farms where there was a presentation on soil health and sustainability in agriculture as well as a tour of the farm.

ENERGY & NATURAL RESOURCES DAY

The Leadership Bismarck-Mandan class stands in the bucket of payloader at BNI Coal’s Center mine. The mine tour was part of Energy & Natural Resources Day on Nov 2nd.

OUR MANY THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING:

The Leadership Bismarck Mandan class participated in a full day of topics during Energy & Natural Resources Day. Jean Schafer of Basin Electric kicked off the day with an “Energy Markets Overview.” She explained how power enters the market and how the power markets work.

Lignite Energy Council sponsored a bus that took the class to tour the Bison Wind Energy Center where the class received a presentation on the power generated at the wind farm and where it is transmitted to. The class then boarded the bus and received a tour of the BNI Coal mine at Center, N.D.

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsor: Scholarship Sponsors: Program Sponsors: Bartlett & West, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, KLJ Engineering

Agriculture co-chairs:

Jennifer Klesalek – Bismarck State College

Dr. Lynette Borjeson Painter – Bismarck State College Destiny Voth – Gate City Bank

Orientation co-chairs: Julie Fedorchak – N.D. Public Service Commission

Kay LaCoe – Lignite Energy Council

Retha Mattern – Lignite Energy Council

Bus, Lunch and Breakfast Sponsors: Bismarck State College - Agriculture Day

Gate City Bank - Agriculture Day

ND Beef Commission - Agriculture Day

Lignite Energy Council - Energy & Natural Resources Day

BNI Coal - Energy & Natural Resources Day

FOCUS ON BISMARCK-MANDAN RETURNS

Back for 2023, the Chamber EDC's premier Economic Development event, Focus on Bismarck-Mandan.

Join the Chamber EDC at the Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center on Thursday, February 23rd to listen to Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D., as he discusses the latest data about the current and expected condition of the economy. You'll learn the most recent statistics on a multitude of key topics such as: current economic growth prospects, the likelihood, timing and magnitude of any upcoming recession, auto manufacturing activity, inflation, and more, as well as looking at construction activity including home construction and non-residential construction.

Focus on Bismarck-Mandan is February 23, 2023.

THANK YOU SPONSORS:

Check-in is from 2:30pm to 3:00pm, with the event to follow from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. Immediately following the event will be a social with appetizers and refreshments for guests to network after hours from 5:00pm to 6:30pm!

Admission is $40 for Chamber EDC Members, and $75 for General Admission Non-Members.

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

Presenting Sponsor: Gold Sponsor: Silver Sponsor: Table Sponsors: AE2S, Amy Hullet with Century 21 Morrison Realty, Bank of North Dakota, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bismarck Cancer Center, Bismarck State College, Bravera Bank, Capital Credit Union, Capital Electric Cooperative, Choice Bank, Dakota Carrier Network, First International Bank & Trust, Gate City Bank, Kirkwood Bank & Trust, KLJ Engineering, KX News, MDU Resources Group, National Information Solutions Cooperative, Sanford Health, University of Mary

THE DATE FOR THE CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER!

Get ready for a night full of music! The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC’s largest premier event is right around the corner, and we want you to save the date. The Annual Dinner is scheduled for Thursday, March 30th at the Bis marck Event Center.

This highly anticipated event is sure to impress! We will hear of the Chamber EDC’s great success in 2022 and what we have to look forward to in 2023.

Be on the lookout for more information including entertainment and agenda! Formal invitations to follow, but it’s never too early to mark your calendar and plan your evening out with us!

Save the date for the 2023 Chamber EDC Annual Dinner for Thursday, March 30, 2023.

THANK YOU SPONSORS!

To reserve a table please contact Nate at nbrown@ bmcedc.com or purchase individual tickets online at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or contact the Chamber EDC at 701-223-5660.

Presenting Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors:

Silver Sponsors: Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Consolidated Construction Company, Inc., Eide Bailly LLP, JLG Architects, MDU Resources Group, Inc.

Media Sponsor: Livewire

Table Sponsors: AE2S, Amy Hullet with Century 21 Morri son Realty, Bain Agency, Bank of North Dakota, Bismarck Cancer Center, Bismarck Event Center, Bismarck Larks, Bismarck State College, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, Capital City Construction, Capital Credit Union, Capital Electric Cooperative, Inc., CHI St. Alexius Health, Choice Bank, Cloverdale Foods Company, CornerStone Bank, Crowley Fleck PLLP, DCI Credit Services, EAPC Architects Engineers, EngTech, EMC Insurance, Environ mental Services Ltd./Huck Financial, Fabricators Unlimited, Fireside Office Solutions, First International Bank & Trust, First Western Bank & Trust, Gate City Bank, ICON Archi tectural Group, KFYR-TV, Kirkwood Bank & Trust, KK Bold, Knife River Corporation, KX News, McGough Construction, MIDCO, Missouri Slope, Moore Engineering, Inc., Nardini Fire Equipment, Inc., NISC, Northwest Tire Inc., Odney, OK Tires, Railway Credit Union, Schmitz-Holmstrom CPAs, Schwan Buick GMC Cadillac, SEH, Inc., Silicon Plains, Stantec Consulting Services Inc., Starion Bank, The Painters, Inc., U.S. Bank, United Printing, University of Mary

STUDENT LEADERSHIP NETWORK CLASS OF

2022-2023

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC is proud to pres ent the 2023-2024 Student Leadership Network class. 12 Juniors and Seniors from Bismarck-Mandan will participate in this 8-month program, consisting of meetings with local businesses and community leaders, as they explore what it takes to be a leader, learner, and innovator. In November, their first meeting took place with Bravera Bank, and consisted of a brief presentation on banking literacy followed by a panel discussion consisting of a variety of Bravera employees.

The 2022-2023 Student Leadership Class

Ella Strutz — Senior, Shiloh Christian School

Lauren Beck — Junior, Legacy High School

Alectra Erhardt — Junior, Legacy High School

Strydar McMahon — Junior, Legacy High School

Marcus Butts — Junior, Legacy High School

Alyssa Olson — Senior, Century High School

Kelbi Pritchett — Junior, Mandan High School

Michael Storsved — Junior, Mandan High School

Cassidy Mosset — Senior, Mandan High School

Alexis Ritzman — Senior, Mandan High School

Jenna Stein — Senior, Mandan High School

Thanks to our presenting sponsors, Bravera Bank and MDU Resources, and our program sponsors, BEK Communications, Basin Electric Power Corporation, and Capital Electric, for their continued support of this valuable program!

The Chamber EDC’s Government Affairs Committee hosted a meeting with the Bismarck-Mandan Legislative Delegation on November 14 to review the organization’s 2023 Legisla tive Agenda.

For the past 18 months, the Government Affairs Committee and Legislative Delegation have met quarterly to discuss those issues, topics, etc. impacting Bismarck-Mandan’s busi ness community. More specifically, the group has discussed: healthcare, energy, infrastructure, workforce & education and economic development. The ‘highlights’ of each meet ing were brought back to the group this past summer to be reviewed with those most pressing becoming the basis for the organization’s 2023 Legislative Agenda.

That Legislative Agenda will be presented to the Chamber EDC’s Board of Directors for formal adoption at their December meeting after which, Staff will advocate the Agenda at the Capitol during the 2023 Legislative Session. Chamber EDC Staff is also planning for two forums with our Legislative Delegation during and after the Session.

The Chamber EDC is grateful for the positive working relationship we enjoy with the Bismarck-Mandan Legislative Delegation and their support of our business community.

DEC 1

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

TASTES OF CHRISTMAS

Date: Thursday, December 1 Check-In: 4:30pm - 5:00pm Event Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm

JAN 12

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: TOUCHMARK ON WEST CENTURY

Date: Thursday, January 12 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Touchmark on West Century — 1000 W Century Ave, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

This mixer is a great way to meet other Chamber EDC members and kick off the new year with networking.

INDOOR GOLF TOURNAMENT

Location: NECE 4th Floor of Bavendick Stateroom – BSC Campus — 1200 Schafer Street, Bismarck Admission: $25 for Chamber EDC members; $50 for General Admission Enjoy a festive evening with other Chamber EDC members as we taste test the latest holiday beverages. JAN

Date: Friday, January 13 Time: Flight 1 — 12:00pm; Flight 2 — 2:00pm; Flight 3 — 4:00pm

Location: Golf Etc — 511 Airport Road, Bismarck Admission: $75 per person, $150 for 2-person team Please arrive 30 minutes before flight time for check-in.

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP

MIXER:

BANK OF NORTH DAKOTA

Date: Thursday, February 2 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Location: Bank of North Dakota — 1200 Memorial Hwy, Bismarck Admission: Free to Attend Come by Bank of North Dakota for an after hour event with the opportunity to chat with other Chamber EDC members.

FEB 23

MAR 30

APR 13

FOCUS ON BISMARCK MANDAN

Date: Thursday, February 23 Check-In: 2:30pm - 3:00pm Event Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Social: 5:00pm - 6:30pm Location: Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center

Admission: $40 for Chamber EDC members; $75 for General Admission Join us as we hear from speaker, Elliot Eisenberg, as he forecasts the 2023 economy.

BISMARCK MANDAN CHAMBER EDC ANNUAL DINNER

Date: Thursday, March 30

Check-In: 5:30pm - 7:00pm Event Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Location: Bismarck Event Center, Hall B — 315 S 5th Street, Bismarck

Admission: $75 for Chamber EDC members; $125 for General Admission This black-tie affair is one to remember. The Chamber EDC reflects on the past year and anticipates the year ahead.

APRIL MEMBERSHIP MIXER: AMERICAN ROOFING SUPPLY

Date: Tuesday, April 13 Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: American Roofing Supply — 1600 Industrial Drive, Bismarck

Admission: Free to Attend

This mixer is a great way to meet other Chamber EDC members and enjoy a little business after hours.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN GRADUATION

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

Location: University of Mary — 7500 University Drive, Bismarck Admission: TBD Help us celebrate our Leadership Bismarck-Mandan graduates.

2 REGISTER FOR THESE EVENTS AND MANY MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BISMARCKMANDAN.COM

There’s no one-sizefits-all solution here.

Small and local. Big and global. No matter the size and scope of your business, Midco® provides the quality services and personalized support to keep you connected and in control.

Midco.com/Business

Internet. Phone. TV. Advertising.

Gusaas Signs, the areas truly locally owned and operated outdoor advertising company has expanded into Mandan. Their newest digital billboard location will be on Main St in Mandan at 605 E Main St.

This location has an extremely high traffic count and will provide all the newest in technology to include dayparting, Lucit and more! The Main St Mandan Billboard was com pleted October 1, 2022.

Gusaas Signs is now offering short-term and long-term ad vertising leases. Companies can either choose to advertise on this site-specific location, or network with their other digital billboard location on Main Ave in Bismarck. Gusaas Signs prides itself in customer relations and is proud to be able to keep expanding in the Bismarck/Mandan commu nities.

UNIVERSITY OF MARY UNVEILS PLANS FOR NEW MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR MARAUDERS ATHLETICS COMPLEX

The University of Mary is bringing football, baseball, soccer, and outdoor track and field competition back to campus for the ultimate student, fan, and athlete gameday experience. The University of Mary unveiled its master plan for its new multi-million-dollar athletics complex that includes new facilities for the aforemen tioned sports, and softball, which already plays on campus.

University of Mary President Monsignor James Shea, Ex ecutive Vice President Jerome Richter, and Interim Athletic Director Dan Huntley unveiled official architectural ren derings showing the new athletics complex spanning the length of campus, between the north and south entrances, parallel to Highway 1804.

The Game Day Plaza is at the center of the new athletics complex, a place for gathering before entering the ticket ing area, football stadium, baseball field, and softball field. It will be adjacent to a parking lot that serves as the main tailgating area. Fans enter the plaza from the west along a lighted commemorative walk linked to the Lumen Vitae University Center (LVUC), and it will be generously scaled to accommodate tents and food trucks or vendors for fes tivals and sporting events. This hub links the new football Stadium and Research Pavilion to the north, with the new baseball and softball complex fanning out to the south and east, respectively. Next to the diamonds to the south is a new gameday soccer field enclosed by an eight-lane track and field. Nestled between the soccer and track and field complex and south entrance to the campus are intramural tennis courts and multi-use practice field. All the playing fields will have artificial turf surfaces, while the multi-use practice field will have natural grass.

The new Stadium and Research Pavilion is truly a multipurpose facility for use year-round and where athletics and academics come together. On football gameday, the east side of the pavilion will be multi-tiered seating including suites that in total will accommodate approximately 2,500 fans on the main grandstand. The berm surrounding the football field will provide room for thousands-more spec tators and students providing an up-close, intimate, and exciting gameday experience and atmosphere guarantee ing home field advantage for the Marauders football team. Inside the Pavilion will house the press box, coaches’ offic es and locker rooms, team meeting rooms, Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences research laboratories, the Institute for Faith, Virtue, and Sport, and more.

A seasonal air dome will enclose the football field once the season is over so all sports teams can practice inside the dome during the offseason.

The athletics complex is under Phase II of University of Mary’s broader three-phased Vision 2030 Capital Cam paign totaling $272-million worth of new campus facilities, renovations, infrastructure, roads, parking, and landscap ing. In 2020, Mary announced it surpassed its Phase I goal of $96 million by raising over $100 million for the new Roers Residence Hall for women, Fieldhouse, Lumen Vitae University Center, Warford Grotto, and the Hamm School of Engineering. The current Phase II of the campaign includes four pillars: the expansion of the Hamm School of Engineering, Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences, the Welcome Center, the Master Landscaping Plan, and the athletics complex for a goal of approximately $90 million.

Overall complex view to the South.

MANDAN MOVES FORWARD WITH YOUTH BASEBALL RENOVATIONS

On November 14 the Mandan Park Board approved KLJ Engineering and Planning Services to design new concepts for Mandan’s Youth Baseball Diamonds and Faris Field.

Mandan Baseball Club plans to make updates to the exist ing Diamonds 9 and 10 located at Mandan’s Youth Baseball Complex. Plans include a new press box, new grandstand, upgraded dugouts, back stop and fencing on Diamond 9. Diamond 9 will be home to the Junior Varsity and Babe Ruth teams. Diamond 10 renovations will consist of installing a turf infield that will allow all levels of baseball to play. Other upgrades include installation of a batting cage between Diamond 9 and 10. Other alternates consist of: turf outfield for Diamond 9, turf infields for Diamonds 11 and 12, new scoreboard for Diamond 9 and netting system for left field line on Diamond 9.

The Mandan Park District has committed $500,000 for upgrades at Faris Field. These updates consist of two dirt infields with grass outfields and putting in Diamonds 14 and 15. Diamonds 14 and 15 will be placed on the south side of the property. Mandan Park District also committed $280,000 to upgrade fencing on Diamonds 9, 10, 11 and 12.

DACOTAH SPEEDWAY PRESENTS CHECK TO BISMARCK CANCER CENTER

Dacotah Speedway, in conjunction with the BismarckMandan Stock Car Association, presented a donation check to the Bismarck Cancer Center for over $7,500 in October 2022.

Back in August, Dacotah Speedway hosted it’s 14th Annual Drive to Survive night. Fans who purchased a special Drive to Survive t-shirt and/or hat got free admission into the rac es that night. The speedway also hosted a live auction at in termission and the fan favorite high heel race. All proceeds raised from the activities went directly back to the Bismarck Cancer Center.

“Dacotah Speedway is proud to make a positive impact in our community,” said Dacotah Speedway Marketing and Sales Coordinator, Jane Link. “I think everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer and we are honored to partner with the Bismarck Cancer Center on Drive to Survive. Each year, it blows me away how gener ously our fans give back to this great cause.”

In the past 13 years, Dacotah Speedway has raised over $65,000 for the Bismarck Cancer Center.

Dacotah Speedway Marketing & Sales Coordinator Jane Link, along with Dacotah Speedway drivers, presented a check for $7,600.

SANFORD HEALTH AND FAIRVIEW HEALTH SERVICES ANNOUNCE INTENT TO COMBINE

Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, and Fairview Health Services, one of the leading providers of health care in Minnesota, have signed a non-binding letter of intent to combine and create a new health system. Together, the combined system will bring together Sanford Health’s experience serving rural popu lations with Fairview Health Services’ experience in serving urban populations across complementary geographic foot prints. The combined system will be uniquely positioned to provide more people access to high-quality, equitable health care, accelerate population health and value-based care, and drive clinical innovation to benefit rural, urban and indigenous communities across the Midwest.

“Our organizations are united by a shared commitment to advance the health and wellbeing of our communities,” said Sanford Health President and CEO Bill Gassen. “As a combined system, we can do more to expand access to complex and highly specialized care, utilize innovative technology and provide a broader range of virtual services, unlock greater research capabilities and transform the care delivery experience to ensure every patient receives the best care no matter where they live.”

“With Sanford Health, Fairview Health Services has found a partner that shares our midwestern values and our commit ment to affordable, accessible and equitable care delivery,” said Fairview Health Services President and CEO James Hereford. “Our complementary capabilities mean that together, we are uniquely positioned to improve clinical outcomes, develop new care delivery models, expand opportunities for employees and clinicians across our broader operational footprint, and apply our combined resources to positively impact the wellbeing of our patients and communities today and for decades to come.”

The combined system will:

• Drive value through quality care and improved outcomes;

• Support health equity;

• Improve the patient experience;

• Help support more affordable care in the communities we serve;

• Provide opportunities for continued employee growth and clinical advancement; and

• Foster a culture of innovation that enables us to recruit and retain the best and brightest across our operational footprint.

Sanford Health and Fairview Health Services will remain nonprofit entities, each with their own regional presence, leadership and regional boards in the markets they serve. Upon close of the transaction, the name of the parent company will be Sanford Health. Sanford Health CEO Bill Gassen will serve as President and CEO of the combined system, and Fairview Health Services CEO James Hereford will serve as Co-CEO for a period of one year post-closing.

The governing boards of both health systems have ap proved proceeding with necessary steps, such as due dil igence and review processes, with the goal of organizing Fairview Health Services and Sanford Health under a single integrated health system. The intention is for a definitive agreement to be signed and the closing of the transaction is anticipated in 2023, pending antitrust and other neces sary reviews and closing conditions.

Sanford Health, Fairview Health Services and their partners are committed to ensuring the patients, residents and communities they serve continue to have access to excep tional care from their clinicians during the completion of this process.

LOLLY at

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

COLLIN KUDRNA at

AMBER SCHRIOCK at

A: The Bismarck Cancer Center Founda tion provides fully furnished apartments to individuals undergoing radiation therapy treatment for very low rates ($15 a night) through the duration of their treatments at BCC. Currently, BCC owns 23 apart ment units and houses to accommodate individuals and their families/caregivers who must travel from out of town for treatment. Units are reserved through the Cancer Center once your treatment dates are scheduled and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All units are furnished through donations and volun teer work. If being away from home is not an option for you, BCC provides several forms of transportation assistance includ ing gas cards, transit coupons, and taxi vouchers. The Bismarck Cancer Center is proud to be able to provide these services for those we serve. Visit with BCC staff for more information on lodging & transporta tion assistance.

4204 Boulder Ridge Rd, #100, Bismarck, ND 58503 701-751-3064

Q: CAN JUST A FEW MONTHS OF INACTIVITY BE THE CAUSE OF MY NECK AND LOWER BACK PAIN?

A: Neck and back pain can have many causes and should be checked by a phys ical therapist that is skilled in evaluating the cause of your pain and/or movement issue. Your physical therapist may find that the cause of your pain is due to the recent inactivity caused by changes in your daily schedule. You might be hunched over your laptop in a makeshift home office or unable to find time to exercise as you had in the past. This inactivity prolonged over weeks and months can cause our body to decondition, where our muscles begin weakening along with decreased heart and blood vessel function.

The good news is deconditioning can be reversed! It is critical that you don’t let common life changes keep you from moving more and sitting less. Together with your PT a plan can be implemented to keep you moving and maintain your muscle strength.

If you need help to get moving safely again contact us. There is no referral needed to access quality physical therapy. See your Movement Specialist today! Visit Optimum Therapies at www.optimumther apies.com.

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

Q: HOW DO I SECURE MY HOLIDAY CHEER?

A: The holidays bring families together, meaning lots of laughs, delicious food and of course, gifts. Whether you are on the giving or receiving end of those gifts, you can take steps to stay safe this holiday season.

Only use trusted online vendors. Some websites may look legit but are actually malicious sites designed to steal your cre dentials and credit card information. URLs that begin with https are more secure than http. If you see the padlock icon on your web browser, the information is encrypted. Keep the software up to date. Phones, computers, toys, even appliances! Outof-date software can have security holes that leave your devices open to attackers. Enable the automatic software updates whenever possible to keep it up to date without taking up your time. Devices that have default passwords need to be changed; try to use complex passwords that are different for each device. Check device privacy and security settings, only share information that is necessary.

Holiday shoppers are a prime target for phishing emails, if it looks suspicious, don’t click it. Don’t use an unsecure public Wi-Fi to complete your transactions or access your banking accounts. If your bank and credit card accounts have two-factor au thentication, use it!

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Q: I LIVE IN LINTON, ND, AND START RADIATION TREATMENT AT THE BISMARCK CANCER CENTER. WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS TO EASE THE BURDEN OF TRAVELING TO AND FROM MY TREATMENTS EVERY DAY?

KAITLYN MACK

at

SALLY CHERNENKO at

201 W Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 701-557-7600

Q: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LEAD WITH EMPATHY?

A: We asked everyone in our office if they would rather be led by an empathetic or sympathetic leader. The results were exactly what we expected. 100% of our employees said they would rather be led with empathy vs sympathy.

So why do we resort to sympathy instead of empathy in an office setting? How do we change our mindset when leading our employees?

Let me give you an example. Someone comes into your office after receiving an email about a company policy change. They are upset, angry, and emotional. It’s natural to respond with the exact same emotion, agree with them or even pass blame to the company. This is leading with sympathy.

Many leaders use sympathy to connect with employees. It comes from a good place but it doesn’t lead the person in the right direction. It reinforces the person’s feelings or perspective.

An empathetic leader, in this same situ ation, would respond by acknowledging how the person feels and then navigate them in a direction that will ensure their success. The leader will help build a solu tion to the problem the person is facing, by listening and appreciating the person’s point of view.

109 N 4th Street, Bismarck, ND 58501 701-751-1698

Q: ARE IMAGES CREATED BY “AI” THE NEXT EVOLUTION OF ART?

A: In 2016, computer scientists created an algorithm capable of analyzing the works of Dutch master, Rembrandt, and synthesizing authentic looking new pieces in his style. This certainly makes AI “art” an interesting new invention.

I think an important point is that AI gener ated work is backward facing. The recently generated “Rembrandt” piece is more his torical statement than new evolution. One of the most important things about new art is that it often has a visionary component which is only fully appreciated retrospec tively.

In ART AND PHYSICS, author Leonard Shlain cites pairings of contemporaneous artists/scientists like da Vinci and Newton or Picasso and Einstein, who simultaneous ly pointed to the same kinds of perceptual shifts from alternatively right and left-brain perspectives. AI would seemingly lack any such zeitgeist.

I think calling AI images an “evolution in art” goes too far. It could arguably be called another form of art despite the lack of originality. Perhaps someday AI will “dream of electric sheep” and develop actual creativity. For now, the fountainhead of visions and dreams that spurs us to endless renewal remains the sole domain of the human imagination.

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

Q: WHAT IS REASONABLE SUSPICION?

A: Reasonable Suspicion Drug and Alco hol tests are requested when a DOT Driver or Safety Sensitive employee displays specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning the appearance, behavior, speech, or body odors of an employee.

Are they under the influence of drugs and alcohol? This needs to be ruled out. A trained supervisor must follow these steps: observe, confirm, document, and confront the employee to discuss the event and decide to test.

At that point, the employee is required to submit to a Reasonable Suspicion test when it is believed the employee has violated the rules that prohibits the use of drugs and or alcohol in the workplace. DOT follows the Code of Federal Regu lations: 49 CFR part 40 regarding Rea sonable Suspicion (Subsection 382.307). Non-DOT companies are encouraged to follow the same regulations. Supervisors must be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of use to include 60 minutes of alcohol training and 60 minutes of drug training.

Sanford OccMed has Reasonable Sus picion Training available. Visit https:// occmed.sanfordhealth.org and search for Training for Purchase.

DCN TEAM EARNS CPSP CERTIFICATION

Six Dakota Carrier Network (DCN) team members have earned the Certified Professional Sales Person (CPSP) designation, awarded through the National Association of Sales Professionals. DCN recipients are:

• Mark Aslakson, wholesale sales manager

• Todd Domres, manager of Owners and government relations

• Jennifer Guthmiller, commercial sales manager

• Valerie Schwantes, account executive

• Troy Walker, director of sales and marketing

• Craig Walz, account executive

The CPSP teaches participants the cycle a client or prospect goes through in the purchase process and teaches how to identify a client’s preferred style of communication and how to speak to that. The program focuses on skills such as improving communication one-onone, in groups, and in meetings; helping guide prospects through the process; and effectively utilizing customer-centric communication. To earn the certification, each person had to complete modules for 45 consecutive days and pass a written exam.

RETIREMENT

Dr. Jason Hornbacher announced that he will be retiring, effective June 30, 2023. He shared the following message with his coworkers:

BPS Colleagues,

I will be retiring as Superintendent of Bismarck Public Schools, effective June 30, 2023. This notification is early to ensure the Bismarck Public School Board has sufficient time to hire a replacement. BPS will always be home to me and has provided me every opportunity to learn and grow as a student and educator. I will miss working with, laughing with, and learning with all of you!

The collective work BPS has accomplished over the past 4 years is only surpassed by the incredible relationships we have forged with each other, this community and most importantly the relationships we have with students and parents that call BPS home.

I enter this next phase of my life with a deep commitment to being the best husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother possible. It has been a privilege working with you and serving this community for over three decades. When I was first hired by BPS the slogan was BPS is #1, I believe that slogan still rings true today! Thank you for allowing me to serve you!

Dr. Hornbacher has provided advance notice to allow time for the Bismarck School Board to determine who will serve as the next superintendent prior to the next school year.

BIANCO REALTY SALES AWARDS

Bianco Realty has announced their top 10 REALTORS® for October: Judy Maslowski, Shirley Thomas, Amber Sandness, Amy Asche, Darcy Fettig, Pam Schafer, Justin Sackman, Duane Bentz, Tori Meyer & Blayn Auch. These 10 REALTORS® had the highest sales totals at Bianco Realty in October 2022.

SANFORD HEALTH RECOGNIZES EXCEPTIONAL PHYSICIANS

During Sanford Health’s annual Physician Recognition Gala in Bismarck, several physicians were honored and awarded for their impacts on patients, colleagues and the profession.

Physicians who received special recognition include:

• New to Sanford: Sri Krishna Arudra, MD, Pathology

• Innovator: Coridon Huez, MD, Orthopedic Surgery

• Doctor’s Doctor: Peter Kurniali, MD, Hematology/ Oncology

• Clinician Leader of the Year: Christina TelloSkjerseth, MD, Radiology

• Pioneer: Susan Wink, MD, Ear, Nose and Throat

“We are honored to celebrate and show appreciation to our talented physicians,” said Mubashir Badar, MD, vice president of clinic for Sanford Health, Bismarck region.

As an organization, Sanford Health has more than 1,500 physicians, 240 of which are located in the Bismarck region.

BISMARCK PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT DR. JASON HORNBACHER ANNOUNCES

Mark Aslakson

Todd Domres

Jennifer Guthmiller

Valerie Schwantes

Troy Walker

Craig Walz

Dr. Jason Hornbacher

Sri Krishna Arudra

Coridon Huez

Peter Kurniali

Christina Tell-Skjerseth

Susan Wink

ARTZ PROMOTED TO DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AT KLJ

KLJ Engineering LLC (KLJ), is pleased to announce that Jon Artz has been promoted to Director of Information Technology (IT). In this position, he will oversee the company-wide IT operations, implement technological strategies, provide quality and timely end-user service, and lead the Technical Services staff. Artz and his team will continue to maintain the efficiency, functionality, and security of KLJ’s IT infrastructure.

Artz joined the company in 2003 and has been involved in various roles and initiatives. With more than 19 years at KLJ, he has invaluable experience and knowledge of the company’s operations, core values, and personnel. He earned two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Mary, one in Computer Information Systems and the other in Business Administration. Most recently, Artz served as a Senior Technology Analyst with KLJ.

THIELE JOINS DAKOTA CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER

Alissa Thiele joined the Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center team in November of 2022 as their Communications and Event Coordinator.

She was born and raised in Turtle Lake, ND and majored in Mass Communications at NDSU.

Alissa has worked in marketing for nonprofits for the last seven years. She looks forward to raising awareness and shining a light on the vital work that the staff at Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center do every day to support children and families suffering from abuse and trauma.

SUBRAMANIAN EARNS CISSP CERTIFICATION

Aparna Subramanian, information systems manager at Dakota Carrier Network (DCN), has earned the prestigious CISSP certification.

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is one of the most globally recognized certifications in cybersecurity. CISSP validates a cybersecurity professional’s deep technical and managerial knowledge and experience to effectively design, engineer, and manage an organization’s overall security posture. Created by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), earning this vendorneutral, accredited certification requires both practical knowledge and professional experience.

In addition, following successful completion of the exam, individuals must subscribe to the consortium’s Code of Ethics and have an endorsement from another ISC2 professional who can verify their professional experience.

DECEMBER 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

Thurs, 1st 5:00 pm Bismarck Board of Adjustment *

Mon, 5th 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission

Tues, 6th 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

Thurs, 8th 9:00 am Bismarck Parking Authority * 4:00 pm Bismarck Renaissance Zone Authority *

Mon, 12th 5:15 pm Bismarck School Board

5:30 pm Mandan Park Board *

Tues, 13th 3:30 pm Burleigh County Human Service Zone Board *

5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 14th 8:00 am Burleigh Water Resource District * 5:15 pm Burleigh Planning & Zoning

Thurs, 15th 5:15 pm Bismarck Park Board

Mon, 19th 10:00 am Met. Planning Org. – Tech Advisory Cmte. * 5:00 pm Burleigh County Commission 5:30 pm Mandan School Board *

Tues, 20th 1:30 pm Met. Planning Org. – Policy Board * 5:30 pm Mandan City Commission

Wed, 21st 3:00 pm Bismarck Historic Preservation * 5:00 pm Bismarck Planning & Zoning

Tues, 27th 5:15 pm Bismarck City Commission

Wed, 28th 5:30 pm Mandan Planning & Zoning

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

* Not available on Radio Access

Jon Artz

Alissa Thiele Aparna Subramanian

CORE REAL ESTATE ADVISORS

Celebrating their Grand Opening at their location 200 E Main Ave in downtown Bismarck. Phone: 701-390-1331. Member.

PRO MARINE

Congratulations to Pro Marine on the Groundbreaking of their new location being built at 2702 Morrison Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 701-751-9911. Member.

NODAK INSURANCE COMPANY

Celebrating

Phone: 701-214-7614. Member.

3ANDME, LLC

Celebrating

BB'S BATH BAKERY

Congratulations to BB's

on their new storefront located in 324 E Broadway Ave in Bismarck. Phone: 701-426-8275. Member.

LEADERSHIP BISMARCK-MANDAN

Bath Bakery

becoming new members of the Chamber EDC and their new location at 3801 Lockport Street, Suite #3 in Bismarck.

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.

joining the Chamber EDC and their three year anniversary of business. Phone: 701-425-3163. Member.

Congratulations to Bismarck Parks & Recreation and the Leadership Bismarck-Mandan Class of 2020 on the official launch of their field project, BisParks BCycle!

Dvorak Motorsports & RV Center

404 Airport Road

Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 751-7547

Austin Roller

Powersports and RV Dealer. Arctic Cat, CFMOTO, Vanderhall, Keystone RV

Mr. X-Terior

8325 42nd Street NE

Bismarck, ND 58503 (701) 471-1180

Shawn Keena

Power washing commercial residential and industrial. Houses, decks, driveways, fleet washing, restaurants, etc.

Pearsons Green Acre Meats

10950 318 Ave NW Wilton, ND 58579 (701) 734-6670

Debbie Pearson

Butcher shop 100% USDA Farm Raised Angus beef and custom slaughtering.

Eden Med Spa

2525 Railroad Ave Bismarck, ND 58501 (701) 934-2553

Shelly Sack Medical Spa

Almost Home Real Estate Solutions

1515 Burnt Boat Rd, Ste C 237 Bismarck, ND 58503 (701) 696-9022

Kevin Kellan

Almost Home specializes in Rent to Own programs that make homeownership possible when buyers can't qualify, and marketing solutions for sellers when agents can't sell their homes.

Pro Marine

2702 Morrison Ave

Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 751-9911

Jordan Bosch

Marine Dealership, with full line of new and used sales; including Caymas boats, Tige/ATX surf boats, Bentley Pontoons. Full service and parts department.

WeClean

200 W. Main Street

Bismarck, ND 58501 (800) 687-4267

Sarah Omicioli Modern cleaning company with hassle-free booking, fivestar rated service, and all-natural products.

Bismarck Nothing Bundt Cakes 4401 Coleman Street, Suite 103 Bismarck, ND 58503 (701) 220-6510

Kayla Green Bakery

Bread Poets Baking Co. 106 E Thayer Ave Bismarck, ND 58501 (701) 222-4445

Peter & Jessica Dargis Specialty bread company specializing in freshly milled whole wheat products

JE Dunn Construction 766 Elks Drive, Ste B Dickinson, ND 58601 (701) 761-0157

Joshua White Commercial Construction Company

Clooten Property Management 110 N 5th Street Bismarck, ND 58501 (701) 425-2655

Alyencia Morales

Our company sets the standard for property management in the Bismarck/ Mandan area. We manage various properties such as: apartments, single/ multi-family homes, and workshops.

Unbound Physical Therapy

1615 Capitol Way Bismarck, ND 58501 (701) 391-9773

Jacob Retzer

Provide our community with a one of a kind approach to physical therapy and your health. Building trust, utilizing a comprehensive and inclusive treatment style using the latest treatment techniques.

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.

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Connection

1640 Burnt Boat Drive

Bismarck, ND 58503

UPCOMING CHAMBER EDC EVENTS

TASTES OF CHRISTMAS BY THE CHAMBER EDC

Date: December 1, 2022 • Check-in: 4:30pm • Event Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm

Location: BSC - NECE (4th Floor Bavendick Stateroom) – 1200 Schafer St, Bismarck

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: TOUCHMARK ON WEST CENTURY

Date: January 12, 2023 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Touchmark on West Century – 1000 W Century Ave, Bismarck

CHAMBER EDC INDOOR GOLF TOURNEY

Date: January 13, 2023

Flight Times: 12:00pm - 1:30pm; 2:00pm - 3:30pm; 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Location: Golf Etc – 511 Airport Road, Bismarck

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP MIXER: BANK OF NORTH DAKOTA

Date: February 2, 2023 • Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Location: Bank of North Dakota – 1200 Memorial Hwy, Bismarck

FOCUS ON BISMARCK-MANDAN

Date: Thursday, February 23, 2023 • Check-in: 2:30pm • Event Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm

Social: 5:00pm - 6:30pm

Location: Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center – 800 S 3rd Street, Bismarck

BEK TV is recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit within North Dakota!

Host Lori Hinz travels across the state to introduce us to the people who made good on their dream of creating a business out of state-made goods.