January 2014 Business Journal

business F o r s o u t h w e s t m o n ta n a

journal

Happy tails Company keeps dogs on the trails while owners are at work PAGE 3

Sweet success Robin Bequet turns love of fine confections into thriving local business B y a m a n da r i c k e r Busi n e s s Jou r na l E di tor

Robin Bequet thought she was going to be able to retire at age 42.

A successful executive in Bozeman, she thought the company she worked for was about to go public. Instead, her 25-year career in sales management and business management ended with the telecom crash of 2001. The company not only didn’t go public, it laid off 80 percent of its workforce. Bequet lost her job. photos by ADRIAN SANCHEZ-GONZALEZ/CHRONICLE “It was a crazy time,” she said.

Bequet Confections owner Robin Bequet, right, launched the gourmet Bequet was left searching to find a way caramel business in 2001, after 25 years in technology management, by pursuing her passion for fine confections and encouragement from the to stay in Bozeman, help support her local business community. family and raise her children. But her luck had far from run out. Out of the blue, a co-worker approached her and write a chapter about something I love,” she said. asked her if she’d start a business with her. The coShe followed her stomach and made the leap into the worker had capital but didn’t have an idea. gourmet caramel business, founding Bequet ConfecSo, Bequet thought about what she did best. For tions the same year she lost her job. And the rest is years, she had been making caramel for her friends and sweet success. In 2012, Prospera Business Network family. She loved entertaining and cooking — particunamed her businesswoman of the year. larly fine confections.

“I was starting a new chapter in my life. I wanted to Bequet Continued on page 6

january 28, 2014

Comings & Goings

to contribute call 582-2635

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A new spin on laundry

newclotheslinecompany.com.

Carol Bildahl, founder of The New Clothesline Company, wants to change what Americans do in the laundry room, one load at a time.

Ninety-percent of the world air dries their laundry. America, the largest developed country in the world, uses more energy on laundry than any other country.

If the average American family does five loads of laundry a week and air dries thee of those loads, they would save between $15 and $20 per month on their energy bill, according to Bildahl.

Bildahl’s grandparents lived in Ireland and they dried their clothes on a clothes drying rack above their stove.

Bildahl has turned to her past for her latest creation. She designed a modern day ceiling mounted clothes drying system, LOFTi/DUO. The wooden system is lightweight, easy to install, colorful and made in Montana.

Bildahl advocates “slow laundry,” take your clothes out of the washer, hang them on the drying rack, bake a cake, walk the dog, take a bike ride. All the while, the clothes are drying – sans energy.

“Throughout my whole life, I’ve always wanted to make a change in society,” Bildahl said. “We all know little changes make a big difference.

Air dry your clothes, the whole rest of the world does it, and so can we.”

For more information, visit the-

H&R Block opens office

business f o r s o u t h w e s t M o n ta n a

Kagy & S 19th 556-4100

Oak & N 19th 556-4130

© 2014 Stockman Bank | Member FDIC 2

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

Belgrade 388-5025

journal

Editor | amanda ricker Advertising manager | Sylvia drain

Income tax servicing firm H&R Block has opened a store in northwest Bozeman near Target.

Located between Radio Shack and Subway at 2855 North 19th Ave, the store celebrated its grand opening in January. This is the second location in Bozeman. The first is located near Kmart.

With tax season upon us, the company helps clients navigate an increasingly complex tax code, while claiming the credits and deductions they are entitled to.

Sidney Sing, a member of the partnership that owns the new franchise store, said H&R Block is urging clients this year to “Get their billion back.” He said a study found that of the people who did their taxes themselves, more than $1 billion dollars was left on the table.

“So we want people to come to H&R Block so they can get their share of the billion back,” Sing said.

The store takes walk-ins, dropoffs and appointments. Clients should bring income information and identification. The store’s hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

C&G Continued on page 4 E-mail:

aricker@dailychronicle.com

Other ways to contact us: PO Box 1190, Bozeman MT 59771 Phone 406 587-4491 Our threecounty region

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www.stockmanbank.com Business Journal is published monthly by Big Sky Publishing, LLC. Contents copyrighted 2012 by Business Journal unless otherwise noted.

Clocking In profiles people with interesting jobs or noteworthy local businesses.

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Busi n e s s Jou r na l E di tor

with Fran Zelenitz, of Go Dogs Go!

F

ran Zelenitz drives a school bus, making her rounds, picking up one passenger after another en route to day camp.

But the passengers on this bus have four legs and a wagging tail.

Founder and owner of the doggie daycare service Go Dogs Go!, Zelenitz picks up between eight to ten dogs every Monday through Friday morning and she takes them hiking for the day.

“It’s all different kinds of dogs,” she said. “I take anything from miniature poodles to Great Danes and they all get along really well.”

It’s a service for busy owners to have peace of mind knowing that their dog is getting exercise and socialization while they’re at work. Some dogs only go to “camp” one day a week, and Zelenitz says the dogs know when it’s their day.

“They’re in the routine,” she said. “The dogs keep track of the days. So, for example, if the owner takes out their garbage in the morning that day, they’re like, ‘Oh, this is the day that Fran’s coming.’ They really do know.”

While she loads up her small green school bus, Zelenitz puts in earplugs to quiet the sound of all the excited, barking dogs behind the partition in the back.

“Once they’re barking and they all start barking, it’s crazy,” she said. “It’s a dog party for sure.”

Zelenitz takes the dogs for a

ADRIAN SANCHEZ-GONZALEZ/CHRONICLE

Fran Zelenitz, owner of Go Dogs Go!, a dog hiking business, is known for her green bus, which she uses to gather her clients’ dogs and take them hiking on local trails.

roughly three-hour, off-leash hike on secret spots on private land that she’s gotten permission to roam over the years. She has selected areas with frequent water stops. And in the winter, she snowshoes and packs down trails for the dogs to walk along.

They follow her in a line.

“I’m just with the dogs alone in the woods, and I’m just constantly talking to them,” she said.

She takes them hiking rain, snow, or shine. Temperatures must dip below negative 20 degrees for her to cancel the outing.

At the end of the day, Zelenitz

loads the dogs back up in the bus, makes her rounds again, and drops off each passenger at home.

And the dogs are tired. The bus is silent. The dogs’ owners often return home from work to find their pooch asleep.

Dogs Continued on page 5

B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l • J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014

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Comings & Goings

Town of Flaxville, $1,000 City of Glasgow, $15,000 Miles City, $15,000 Sheridan County, $18,000 Town of Westby, $10,000 Town of Broadview, $12,000 Butte-Silver Bow, $30,000 Carbon County, $30,000 City of Deer Lodge, $20,000 City of Harlowton, $15,000 Town of Ennis, $30,000 City of Kalispell, $30,000 Lewis & Clark County, $30,000 Meagher County, $29,682 City of Red Lodge, $20,000 Sanders County, $10,000 Toole County, $15,000 Yellowstone County, $30,000

to contribute call 582-2635

Community Food Co-op to improve parking area There’s been a lot of moving and shaking over at the Community Food Co-op’s West Main Street location.

Two neighboring houses were bought and torn down and now the co-op is charging forward with plans to improve its parking area.

Plans call for adding more parking spaces and street parking for a total of 62 spaces and reworking the parking lot configuration to make it easier for customers to navigate, said Allison Grey Germain, the co-op’s marketing and membership manager.

The new plan aims to tackle current parking frustrations at the co-op like tight corners and fighting for spaces, Grey Germain said. “(Parking concerns have) been one of the biggest comments from our member owners over the years,” she said.

Plans also call for creating a buffer for the houses on Babcock Street. A picnic area will be added with an outdoor seating area. Research is currently being done to select edible plants for

the area, Grey Germain said.

The co-op is in the planning phase and hopes to start work in the spring.

Ennis receives $30K for housing, infrastructure The town of Ennis has received a $30,000 matching grant from a state program designed to help communities create long-term plans for housing and infrastructure.

Gov. Steve Bullock announced more than $400,000 in grant to 20 communities on Wednesday.

The federally funded grants are awarded by the state commerce department’s Community Development Block Grant program. The program awards up to $30,000 per award, and each grant requires a 1:3 match with local or other funds.

Since the Legislature authorized the program in 1982, the state has received $191 million in block grant funds.

The full list of grants is as follows: Custer County, $15,000 Dawson County, $30,000

the bottom line

The Mint reopens after closing for few months After shutting down for a few months, the Mint in Belgrade is back in business.

When Mike Rosenberger and his wife Shawn took over ownership in September, they closed down the restaurant and remodeled it to bring it “back to what the Mint was several years ago,” Mike Rosenberger said.

“It’s a community gathering spot with great food. It had a tremendous following of locals,” he said.

Rosenberger, who has been in the restaurant business since he was 9 years old, has been visiting the area since the 1980s. Recently, he was looking for a restaurant to purchase

in the Belgrade or Bozeman area.

When the Mint came up for sale, it was the right fit, he said.

Rosenberger said the menu “lays heavy on the steak side,” but also includes vegetarian and gluten-free options. It also features the “original Mint burger,” an 8-ounce burger served on a toasted English muffin.

The newly reopened Mint also serves lunch, offering a variety of salads, wraps and burgers.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week.

Red Tractor Pizza opens on Main Street If you’ve driven down West Main Street recently, you may have noticed a big red tractor in front of Sola Café’s downtown location.

That’s because a new pizzeria is opening up there next week.

As Adam Paccione puts it, the Main Street Sola oven was idle for about 12 hours a day, so they decided to take advantage of the time and resources and start making pizzas in the woodfired oven. Paccione is the pizzeria’s “manager and pizza magician,” said Sola owner Tiffany Lach.

Late nights and early mornings will still be spent baking for Sola’s Kagy Boulevard location, but during the day, they’ll be slinging pies under the name Red Tractor Pizza at the 1007 W. Main St. location.

“We want to stay as local as pos-

Monthly economic indicators

Airport boardings Aug.

Sept.

Oct.

Nov.

Year to Date

50,000

450,000

40,000

400,000

30,000

350,000

20,000

300,000 N/A

10,000 Billings

4

Dec.

Bozeman

Missoula

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

250,000

N/A

SOURCE: dept. of Transportation, Montana Aeronautics Division

Montana Elevator Cash Grain prices $10 $9 $8 $7 $6 $5

U.S. 2 Feed Barley U.S. 1 Dark Northern Spring Wheat 14% U.S. 1 Hard Red Winter Wheat 12% 12/23 12/30 1/6 1/13

Average Price per bushel for winter and spring wheat. Average Prince per CWT for feed barley

SOURCE: Usda-WY Dept. of Agriculture Market News Service, Torrington, WY

sible, as seasonable as possible,” Paccione said.

The “high-end, gourmet pizza” will have unconventional toppings like wine-braised mushrooms, caramelized onions and fire-roasted red peppers, with crusts garnished with truffle oil.

Bozeman Running Co. moves The Bozeman Running Co. trotted down the street from its old home at 448 E. Main St., and has settled in at 126 E. Main St. The new location is more in the heart of downtown and lends itself to more foot traffic, especially in the summer, said Tim Whiton, who introduced himself as “one of the guys” at the store.

The new location opened on Jan. 2 and is more than just a shoe store, Whiton said. The new space sports a community room in the back for workshops, race packet pickup, training meetings and other gathering opportunities.

The guys at Bozeman Running Co. plan to bring in more speakers this year, and they’re gearing up for weekly pub runs.

ADRIAN SANCHEZ-GONZALEZ/CHRONICLE

Zelenitz picks up a clients’ dog to go for a hike on a local trail.

Sushi counter at Montana Fish Co. Bozeman sushi lovers now have another option.

On Jan. 1, the Montana Fish Co. opened up its new sashimi bar inside its Main Street store.

From noon to 5 p.m., patrons can sidle up to the bar or order a platter to go. Private parties and sushi classes are also on the menu.

As for the actual menu, it has a variety of sashimi and nigiri and other favorites like miso soup. The company uses fresh seafood that it gets in, like mackerel, Scottish salmon, octopus and a variety of other ingredients, said creative director Jared Byerly.

Byerly said the company’s outside tables are always popular in the summer, so the business decided to expand its offerings year-round inside.

— By Chronicle Staff

Feeder cattle Prices

dogs Con t.

f rom page 3

“It’s just people who are dog lovers, who just want their dogs to have a great day,” Zelenitz said. “That’s petty much what it comes down to. It’s nice to have your dog pass out one day a week.”

Zelenitz started the business eight years ago after hearing about a similar service in Missoula. A single mom with two kids, she was a trained pastry chef, but she had trouble finding a job with flexible hours in Bozeman that would allow her to get her kids on and off the school bus each day and to be with them in the evenings. Now, Go

Dogs Go! is her sole profession. She operates the business out of her home.

“I started with no dogs, and within a couple of weeks, I had a few people call me,” she said.

Dog owners who are interested in the service first meet with Zelenitz to introduce their dogs, discuss their pet’s individual needs, arrange pickup times and fill out paperwork.

Then, it’s off to camp.

“The dogs are just people’s kids, so it really means a lot to me to make sure they’re doing OK,” Zelenitz said.

For more information, contact Zelenitz at 209-1479.

Amanda Ricker can be reached at aricker@dailychronicle.com. She is on Twitter at @amandaricker.

Unemployment rate

Yellowstone National park visits SOURCE: National Park Service

$200 STEERS

$150

500-599 lbs

$100 Week Week Week end end end 1/3 1/10 1/17

HEIFERS 500-599 lbs

Dec. . .......... 63,220

8%

Nov. . .......... 58,339

6%

Oct. . ........ 122,060

4%

U.S. Montana Gallatin Co.

Sept. .......... 673,597 August . ..... 885,260 July . ........ 983,063

Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. 2013 SOURCE: Montana Department of Labor & Industry

B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l • J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014

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Workers sprinkle salt or other toppings onto the hot caramel while it sets.

Bequet Cov e r s t or y con t.

Batches of caramel cook for about two hours before being spread across large baking sheets.

6

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

Bequet started small. She began making caramels at the kitchen in the preschool at Temple Beth Shalom, where she was a congregant. Normally, a licensed commercial kitchen costs about $100 a day, she said. Beth Shalom offered her its space for $50 per month.

“There’s a white cloud that kind of follow us and that was the first white cloud event,” she said.

Now, Bequet Confections’ manufacturing facility at Four Corners makes about 25,000 pieces of caramel per day. There are 11 varieties of caramels — soft, chewy, chocolate, chipotle, Celtic sea salt, espresso, salt chocolate, butterscotch, green apple, cinnamon swirl

and salted mocha, which was introduced last June. The company tries to introduce a new flavor every year.

Bequet’s caramel recipe started with a failed batch of almond rocha.

She had gotten a candy making cookbook, tried the rocha and botched it miserably.

“It came out horrible … complete garbage. It was powdery,” she recalled.

But she couldn’t give up. She tried another page out of the cookbook for caramel. That recipe, though, “felt uncomfortable” so she adjusted it to her liking. And that was it.

The company produces Bequet’s creation by the truckload. Bequet Confections employs 24 people year-round and another 24 people seasonally.

Visitors to the facility can watch the caramel being made through large picture windows.

Workers in aprons and hats bustle between copper candy stoves, watching butter, cream, brown sugar and other ingredients simmer to a shiny tan liquid.

“We really try hard to use all natural ingredients so when you read the label on the package, you recognize all the things on the list,” said Lyndsey Althans, manufacturing and support specialist. “So, it’s things your grandmother would have used.”

Batches of caramel cook for about two hours before being spread across large baking sheets. Workers sprinkle salt or other toppings onto the hot caramel while it sets.

Once cooled, the caramel is sent through cutting and packaging machines. The machines can wrap more than 400 pieces of caramel per minute. Then, workers inspect each caramel by hand before the candy is bagged and shipped to stores.

Bequet supplies about 700 gourmet food markets and stores, similar to Joe’s Parkway or the Community Food Coop, across the country.

Bequet credits much of the company’s success to her employees. Montanans are passionate about their jobs, they hold a high standard and they care about what they’re doing, she said.

“I don’t know that this business would have been successful anywhere else,” she said.

Amanda Ricker can be reached at aricker@dailychronicle.com. She is on Twitter at @amandaricker.

photos by ADRIAN SANCHEZ-GONZALEZ/CHRONICLE

Bequet supplies about 700 gourmet food markets and stores, similar to Joe’s Parkway or the Community Food Coop, across the country.

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[ Quarterly advice for business and life from a revolving cast of three columnists ]

▲

Business Matters

Five marketing ideas to improve your business By doug weber

Marketing can be a mystifying and nebulous task for businesses. Everyone knows that effective marketing is vital to survive in an often hyper-competitive business environment, but where do you start?

Marketing is all about communicating your products’ or services’ value to the market. This can be achieved through various approaches and activities, and encompasses everything from traditional advertising to sales channel management. Even the overall culture of your organization can be considered a marketing function.

So, taking on marketing is a little bit like eating an elephant… one bite at a time. In that spirit, here are five marketing ideas you can look at to improve your business.

Is your marketing consistent? When it comes to marketing your business, make sure you are taking a consistent approach. Are you using the same tagline throughout all of your promotions? Do you have a color scheme that is consistent across the brand? Are you using the same logo or family of logos in all of your marketing efforts? Make sure your business is using every possible avenue and opportunity to consistently market who you are and what you do.

What is your social media strategy? It can be argued that every business should have a social media presence. According to Pew Research, 71% of online adults now use Facebook. I’m not sure every business absolutely needs it, but if you are going to use social media, use it well. A poor representation on social media only hurts your business and reputation, so if you can’t keep a valuable and consistent presence, don’t bother. Social media (in Bozeman and across the country, Facebook is the dominant tool) should be updated regularly (at least twice a week) to give your audience good quality content and updates on your business, products, 8

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

and services. You can build your audience organically (best) or through paid audience building strategies. Although social media is time intensive, once you have your audience built it is (for the most part) a free communication channel to help strengthen your relationships and revenue stream from customers. The more value you can provide your audience, the better the results you’ll see from social media.

Are you getting the most out of your existing customers? Businesses sometimes forget to market to their current customers. As a business, if you can increase the average expenditure of your returning customer base year after year, you are in a fantastic position. So, make sure you are actively marketing to your current customer base. Collect information on your current customers, especially e-mail addresses. As mentioned above, social media is another great way to market to current customers. Offer “add

on” services or specials to encourage people to try things they haven’t in the past. If you can increase the frequency that customers use your products or services, you’ll be money ahead at the end of the year.

Where is your business coming from? It is important to know who your customers are, and why they do business with you. If you can pin down who your primary demographic is and why they frequent your business, you can continue to “mine that vein” by marketing to that specific group. Another question is to understand potential new demographics. What group would you like to be attracting, and what can be done to bring this group in to your business? What product would you like to sell more of and who typically buys it? Market research projects can be conducted with your current customer base to understand why they do business with you. Once you have this important information,

you’ll have a clearer idea what your “niche” is, and possibly where you are falling short.

What does your digital presence look like? Consumers are using the web more and more to gather information and help with buying decisions. Make sure your business has an attractive digital presence. Your website should be functional and attractive. If your industry has online directories, make sure your business is accurately listed (an example is UrbanSpoon for restaurants). Be aware of review sites like Angie’s List and try to address negative customer comments proactively. Do an SEO audit to see what your visibility is through search engines.

Marketing can be a daunting task.

These simple activities should give you more than enough to chew on in the New Year.

Doug Weber is the head grunt at Mammoth Marketing in Bozeman. www.mammothmontana.com

Now in Bozeman & Helena, KR Office Interiors is here to help you create your vision in the workspace.

Our experienced designers and installers will help you to Love How You Work!

Visit our showroom at 119 N. 7th Ave., Bozeman to see what’s new in the work place.

(Locally owned and operated for over 30 years)

▲

Financial tips

The acceleration of knowledge

By Steve hample

Calculus is a way of thinking which revolutionized mathematics in the late 1600s. It involves making successively better estimates and seeing a way to skip ahead to an exact mathematical answer.

Who invented calculus? If you speak primarily English you were probably taught that Englishman Sir Isaac Newton invented it. If German is your native tongue, the answer would likely be Gottfried Leibniz with his Infinitesimal Calculus. Debate over who was the inventor lasted for decades with the final resolution that both separately thought of it without any stealing of ideas or collaboration between them. However, another person (Madhava of Sangamagrama) apparently thought of it 250 years earlier, in India where the knowledge was recorded in an obscure language.

When those early mathematicians were doing their thing, messages were sometimes carried by pigeons or by relatively crude books shipped on boats. Today, modern information can travel at internet speed to all parts of the world and language differences can be bypassed (at least roughly) via computer translation programs.

Science fiction is becoming science fact. The 1960s Star Trek series provides great examples. Flip open cell phones resemble Captain Kirk’s “communicator”. Tasers correspond to “Phases set to stun”.

Doctor McCoy’s “tricorder” is almost in existence via cell phone apps with tiny sensors already transmitting medical readings.

Regeneration of damaged human body parts has already been achieved, aided by 3D printing.

In 2006 cultured human cells were used to create a new bladder

that was surgically implanted with excellent results.

The pace of discoveries and technological improvements is accelerating. Consider this modern example: On Sept. 10, 2013 Dutch designer Dave Haakens uploaded a Youtube video showing his design for customizable smartphones, which he called “Phonebloks”, consisting of components that could be snapped together almost as if putting together Legos blocks. Interest and support followed rapidly.

On Oct. 28, 2013 Motorola Corporation announced that it had spent more than a year working on a nearly identical product.

The Nov. 4-10, 2013 issue of Bloomberg BusinessWeek reported that Motorola is teaming up with Hakkens on the project.

We might say that “warp speed” transmission has broken a time barrier for the spreading of new knowledge.

Geographical barriers have also been broken. On a flight from Bozeman I mentioned that after Chicago I was connecting to a flight to Frankfurt and then to Spain. My seemingly long flight was trumped when the person next to me mentioned he was also connecting to

Frankfurt, then to India and from there to Nepal and that he’d been in Asia a few weeks earlier. Though he travels worldwide, his business is based in Bozeman.

Knowledge based businesses can be located almost anywhere and hence will continue to gravitate toward areas such as Beautiful Bozeman. Dr. Ray Rasker, Executive Director of Headwaters Economics, stated “The checklist for economic success in Bozeman is long, but at

the top are these: our airport, education rate, and high quality of life.

To do well in the future we have to safeguard and improve all three.”

We live in an amazing time and place.

Dr. Stephen R. Hample, CFP, of Hample & Peck, owns an investment advisory business and a trust/banking corporation and is a registered representative of KMS Financial Services, Inc. Opinions expressed are his own.

Comments or questions may be sent to Steve.

Hample@KMSfinancial.com.

Super Weekend Sale! ~ Jan. 28-31st Wow your guests with specialty meats and cheese from the Chalet Market!

15% OFF Sausage • 20% OFF Cheese 10% OFF Meat & Cheese Trays* *order by 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 30th for pick-up on the 31st.

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The Chalet Market

6410 Jackrabbit Lane • Belgrade Chaletmarket.com / 406.388.4687 Open 7 Days a Week B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l • J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014

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â–˛

Real talk

Latest good news for the real estate market By robyn erlenbush

The real estate market for 2013 met or exceeded all expectations that we had a year ago while on the quest for a return to normal. This summary compares 2013 to 2012 sales information using the Southwest Montana Multiple Listing Service (SWMLS) as the source.

Within the city of Bozeman, single family home sales increased by 13%. There were 489 single family homes sold in 2013, compared to 431 in 2012. There was a very minimal increase to 341 condo/ townhomes sold in 2013 which equaled 2% growth over the 334 sales in 2012. This was mostly due to the lack of available attached housing for sale in this area. The average sales prices for single family homes also showed further recovery with a 6% increase to $310,099 in 2013 from $293,913 in 2012, while attached housing showed a nice 12% appreciation from an average of $167,510 in 2012 to $187,224 in 2013. The median sales price was $277,710 for single family homes, up 9% from $255,000 in 2012 and $174,900 for condo/ townhomes, up 15% from the $152,200 of 2012.

Last year the supply of single family homes within Bozeman stabilized and actually increased a small 5% at year-end compared to the prior year. At the end of 2013, there were 111 active residential properties listed for sale compared to 106 in 2012 and 279 at the end of 2007, which has long since been considered the peak. Once again, homes that are priced under $350,000 are selling quite well. Based on current supply and the number of homes sold in this price range in the last 12 months, there is 10

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

less than a 3 1/2 month supply of inventory.

The subdivisions and rural areas immediately surrounding Bozeman also had healthy growth with single family sales up yet again from 305 units in 2012 to 350 in 2013, a 15% increase. The average sales price showed a 13% increase from $403,916 in 2012 to $454,893 in 2013, as well as a 9% median price jump from $329,900 in 2012 to $358,862 in 2013. This area contains both price extremes of properties from entry level housing to the luxury second home market.

Belgrade and the surrounding market showed a very strong 27% increase with 190 single family homes sold in 2012 versus 242 in 2013. The average sales price increased by 19% from $199,093 in 2012 to $236,868 in 2013. The condo/ townhome market has stayed relatively flat with 47 sales in 2013 compared to 48 in 2012, but with an average sales price up 24% to $107,492 in 2013 from

$86,472 in 2012. In the Belgrade area, the supply of homes available for sale remains very low with only 56 single family homes and 12 condo/ townhomes available at the closing of 2013.

Within the Manhattan/ Three Forks region, single family home sales increased 31% from 81 sales in 2012 to 106 in 2013. Average sales price rose 16% from $209,692 to $243,750, while the median increased 21% to $218,555.

Big Sky, including Gallatin Canyon and West Yellowstone, once again showed market gains with a 15% increase in sales of single family homes sold from 73 in 2012 to 84 in 2013. The average sales price increased from $790,777 in 2012 to $828,200 in 2013. Condo/townhome sales rocketed 60% to 189 sold units in 2013 versus 118 units in 2012. There was an average price increase from $310,831 in 2012 to $370,710 in 2013.

The market in Livingston and surrounding Park County showed a 19% increase in sales with 191 single family homes sold in 2013 compared to 160 in 2012. Average sales price increased 36% from $202,603 in 2012 to $275,867 in 2013. Condo/ townhome sales in Livingston fell from 17 to 16 units in 2013 with essentially a flat average price from $122,687 in 2013 versus $122,420.

Vacant land sales experienced another very positive year as a whole. Bozeman sales within the city limits were up 14% from 202 sales in 2012 to 231 in 2013, with average sales prices increasing 42%

from $66,296 to $93,888. Rural Bozeman increased 5% from 199 to 208 sales units with an average sales price rising from $159,981 to $176,104. Belgrade land sales climbed sharply from 15 to 76 parcels, a jump of 407%. Yet the average price dropped from $166,186 to $129,613. Manhattan and Three Forks increased 61% from 49 to 79 sales units with a small decrease in average price to $71,534 in 2013 from $77,372 the previous year. The Big Sky area showed a 75% jump from 57 to 100 sales, and an increase in average price from $271,682 to $297,292. Park County saw the sales units increase from 36 to 47, but with the average price declining from $322,997 in 2012 to $152,288. One point to keep in mind is that there are all types of acreage included in these totals from city lots to large parcels.

So where do we go from here?

All signs point to a strong sales year for 2014, with a renewed emphasis on new construction and increased sales prices. Our numbers of sales should keep pace with 2013 or increase slightly.

Our local area, as well of the entire state of Montana, has all the variables present for a very positive year. The resort and second home buyers have reappeared and may bring stabilization to higher price point residential and vacant land.

Robyn Erlenbush is a downtown business owner and the broker/owner of ERA Landmark Real Estate (with offices in Bozeman, Big Sky, Livingston and Clyde Park), NAI Landmark Commercial and Intermountain Property Management. She can be reached at robyn@eralandmark.com.

On the Record Vixen, Michelle Catherine Mayer, 16 N. Tracy Ave., Bozeman, December 11.

licenses

New Service—Auto & RV Repair/Maintenance Bozeman Community Auto, Eric Godwin-Austen, 2006 Gilkerson Dr. Unit B, Bozeman, November 12.

New Service—Computer Consulting/System Development Nicholas Bishop, Nicholas George Bishop, 112 S. 20th Ave., Bozeman, December 19.

New Service—Health & Beauty Champu Emporium LLC, Dolores Cooney, 2718 Edwards, Butte, December 10.

New Service—Health Care Out of the Cocoon Natural Healing, Katelyn Kay Coon, 689 Professional Dr. Ste. A, Bozeman, December 19.

New Service—Interior Design Northern Supply Co., Nicholas S. Lieb, 3508 Laramie Dr. Ste. 2B, Bozeman, December 19.

New Service—Other Capital Tower & Communication, Patrick William Reed, PO Box 273, Waverly, Nebraska, December 3.

Elevation Design LLC, Robert Lee Riviere, 22 Chestnut Grove

permits filings patents Bankruptcies

Ave., Bozeman, December 19.

Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson Inc., KLJ Solutions Holding Co., PO Box 4130, Bismarck, North Dakota, December 3.

Precision Edits, Amy Lynn Bekkerman, 3020 Teslow Dr., Bozeman, December 19.

Sacagawea, Marlene Denny, 777 E. Main St., Bozeman, December 19.

New Service—Personal Fitness Coach Jen’s Swim School LLC, Jennifer L. Kanewske, 49 Michael Grove, Bozeman, December 4.

New Retail—Arts & Crafts Bozeman Weavers Guild, Anita G. Krueger, PO Box 1782, Bozeman, December 2.

New Retail—Art Studios & Galleries Catching Breezes, Helen Paulette Donvan, 214 E. Story St. #1, Bozeman, December 19.

Legacy Galleries Inc., Bradley Richardson, 7178 E. Main St., Scottsdale, Arizona, December 5.

New Retail—Furniture/Home Interiors Home Base Montana, Andrew Duane Holloran, 20 N. Tracy Ave., Bozeman, December 16.

New Retail—Other Collin Letts Functional and Fine Art, Collin Michael Letts, 414 S. 12th Ave., Bozeman, December 3.

Ferguson Enterprises Inc., F. Thomas Carmine Jr., Attn. Business License PO Box 2778, Newport News, Virginia, December 20.

New Retail—Pets & Supplies/ Feed Stores Petco #1268, Petco Animal Supplies Stores, 654 Richaland Hills Dr., San Antonio, Texas, December 13.

New Contractors—Drywall Scott Peabody, Scott Peabody, 400 High K Rd., Belgrade, December 3.

New Contractors—Electrical Gray’s Electric, David D. Gray, 324 Pine Crest Rd., Columbus, December 3.

New Contractors—General Conductive, Barton B. Churchill, 1015 W. Dickerson St., Bozeman, December 19.

Ferrellgas, No Owner or Address Listed, December 3.

Hardin Construction and Maintenance, Dane Thomas Hardin, 17 W. Lamme Apt. 105, Great Falls, December 3.

Precision Painting and Drywall, John Junter Holland, 7 Cloninger Ln., Bozeman, December 19.

New Contractors—Wood Working Walker Specialty Woodworks, No Owner or Address Listed, December 3.

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11

On the Record con t.

Joseph L. Byers of Inman, SC, Flint W. Toriran of Ashville, NC, Samuel R. Shuman of Belgrade, and Tony W. Koons of Fletcher, NC. Day International Inc. of Dayton, Ohio. Printing blanket construction. 8,623,774. January 7.

New Professional/Occupational Madison Engineering LLC, Christopher Budeski, 895 Technology Blvd.

Ste. 203, Bozeman, December 19.

New Food Service—Restaurant Mikey’s NotSoFamous Barbeque, Michael Timothy Dobbs, 225 E. Main St., Bozeman, December 3.

New Food Service—Takeout Sooyoo Sushi, Shane Patrick Parlier, 1801 W. Main St., Bozeman, December 17. patents

Ethan F. Imboden of San Francisco, Calif. and Jeff Wyatt of Bozeman.

Jimmy Jane Inc. of San Francisco, Calif.

Personal massager. D697,222. January 7.

Daniel W. Price of Loveland, Ohio, William E. Clem of Bozeman, Matthew C. Miller of Cincinnati, Ohio, Cory G. Kimball of Cincinnati, Ohio, Brennan G. McCabe of Cincinnati, Ohio, Jeffrey D. Messerly of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Shawn C. Snyder of Greendale, IN. Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio. Electrical connector. D696,631.

December 31.

Ethan F. Imboden of San Francisco, Calif. and Jeff Wyatt of Bozeman.

Jimmy Jane Inc. of San Francisco, Calif.

Massaging sleeve. D696,412. December 24.

Ethan F. Imboden of San Francisco, Calif. and Jeff Wyatt of Bozeman.

not a Member?

Join Today!

ContaCt: Karri Clark (406) 922-0446 kclark@bozemanchamber.com

Wednesday, February 12, 2014 Bozeman Deaconess Health Services Sponsored by Holiday Inn ~ 5 Baxter Lane Presentation By: Kevin Pitzer 11:15-11:45am - Registration/Lunch 11:45am-1:00pm - Presentation Topics to be covered: Health System’s Expansion Plans • Workforce Expansion and Concerns Health Care’s Economic Impact on Community and Region Impact of the Affordable Care Act • Opportunity to Meet Kevin Pitzer The Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce and MSU Alumni Foundation Presents:

Tuesday, February 18, 2014 MSU Awards for Excellence

Montana State University Grand Ballroom ~ 5:30pm This event recognizes the top students at MSU in their field of study and two outstanding community members who give time to the Bozeman Community and Montana State University.

Questions, please contact Karri Clark, Director of Sales & Membership Operations, 406-922-0446 12

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

Jimmy Jane Inc. of San Francisco, Calif.

Compact vibratory massaging device.

D696,411. December 24. permits

Commercial Addition 212 S. Wallace, Olive & Wallace LLC, Langlas & Associates Inc., $1,099,800.

Commercial Tenant Improvement 421 N. Broadway, Charles Brodie, Oasis Telecom, $20,000.

855 S. 29th, Mitchell Development, Mitchell Development Group, $17,000.

1500 S. 19th, Shelly Johnson, Jones Construction Inc., $20,000.

901 W. Main, MRH Partners LLC, Walker Construction, $150,000.

204 N. Black, Joe Newman, Owner is General, $2,000.

801 W. Main, Snowload Master LLC, Gerald Brunckhorst Contracting, $3,000.

416 W. Main, Ryan Jackson, Nistler Homes LLC, $17,000.

708 N. Rouse, Bozeman Creek Proper-

ties LLC, Drycreek Drywall, $3,000.

1216 W. Lincoln, Chris and Hill Brown, Langlas & Associates Inc., $150,000.

17 S. 5th, James Salter and Ann Altemus, Owner is General, $3,600.

121 E. Main, Robert O. Evans, Kleimer Electric Inc., $10,000.

602 W. Hemlock, Mitch and Maria Billis, Owner is General, $20,000.

3810 Valley Commons, SBL Enterprises, Guardian Restoration Inc., $5,959.

801 W. Main, Snowload LLC, Weppler Construction Inc., $4,000.

Commercial Reroof 627 E. Peach, Media Station Inc., Dark Horse Contractors, $12,000.

Fire Systems Permit 4769 W. Babcock, Springhill Presbyterian Church, Sprinkler Technology Design Inc., $170,000.

501 N. 11th, Bozeman School District 7, Systems Northwest LLC, $10,920.

Sign Permit 1733 W. Oak, Bridger Peaks LLC, Gal-

SCORE OPEN HOUSE “Counselors to america’s small Business”

Business Owners -or people wanting to start a business– meet our volunteer business experts and learn how they can help your business thrive POtential new MeMBers - retired or employed – learn how you can share your experiences by counseling small business owners. we would like to meet you!!!

wednesday, January 29th – 4-6 PM Bozeman Chamber – 2000 Commerce way Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages sCOre counseling is a free service to your business. sCOre is a non-Profit Organization

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Realizing Potential

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Whether you’re looking locally or thinking globally, our associates have the knowledge, experience and network to bring you real estate solutions.

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Asset Management 1031 Exchanges Development Opportunities Office/Multi-Family Retail/Industrial

CONTACT US Steve Olson Broker, Director Kasey Harte Sales Associate Ryan Springer Sales Associate Cam Holt Broker Jason Leep Sales Associate Rick Ojala Sales Associate Chris Pope CCIM, Sales Associate Robyn Erlenbush Broker/Owner 1811 W Dickerson #17 Bozeman MT 59715 406 556 5005 nailandmark.com B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l • J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014

13

On the Record con t. latin Valley Signs, $5,500.

1019 E. Main, Langlas, Gallatin Valley Signs, $3,000.

7 W. Main, Summit Properties LLC, Gallatin Valley Signs, $1,100.

115 E. Main, Robert O. Evans, Signs West, $900.

4769 W. Babcock, Springhill Presbyterian Church, Schafer Construction Inc., $700.

270 Automotive, J&D Family Partnership, Western Neon Inc., $1,700.

777 E. Main, Delaney & Company Inc., Dwelling, $1,500.

777 E. Main, Delaney & Company Inc., Gallatin Valley Signs, $800.

126 E. Main, Allied Manufacturing Corp., Gallatin Valley Signs, $2,897.

Residential Attached Single Family Dwelling 7 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,189 Sq Ft, $305,223.

5 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,189 Sq Ft, $305,223.

9 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,760 Sq Ft, $358,637.

202 N. Tracy, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 4,242 Sq Ft, $410,819.

17 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,189 Sq Ft, $305,223.

201 N. Black, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 4,242 Sq Ft, $410,819.

15 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,760 Sq Ft, $358,637.

19 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,189 Sq Ft, $305,223.

11 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,760 Sq Ft, $358,637.

13 E. Lamme, Block M LLC, Rotherham Construction Inc., 3,760 Sq Ft, $358,637.

Residential Single Family Dwelling 4801 Alpha, Cottage Craft Homes LLC, Elliott Management Consultants, 2,905 Sq Ft, $260,135.

1025 Boylan, Mark E. and Marinell Burnham, Shane Collins Construction Inc., 2,967 Sq Ft, $257,977.

946 Knolls, Larry G. and Constance

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1921 West Main • Bozeman, MT www.PierceFlooring.com • 406.587.5428

Hours: Mon - Fri: 8 AM to 6 PM • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM • Closed Sundays 14

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

Blackwood, Chase-Skogen Homes Inc., 3,321 Sq Ft, $319,707.

4404 Morning Sun, David and Tiffany Coletta, St. Custom Homes LLC, 4,517 Sq Ft, $419,195.

2263 N. Ferguson, Travisties International Inc., Lifespace Homes, 2,050 Sq Ft, $182,124.

4886 Vine, Covenant Investments Inc., Mountain High Homes Inc., 3,839 Sq Ft, $352,199.

1358 Post, Margaret M. and Barbara Sirovatka, Bozeman Deaconess Real Estate, 2,397 Sq Ft, $222,781.

1306 Pinnacle Star, Peder and Jessica Anderson, Third Street Development Inc., 2,772 Sq Ft, $249,219.

Residential Duplex 4204 Brenden, Jason M. Lovelace, Ascent Home Builders Inc., 3,634 Sq Ft, $341,720.

1029 Forest Glen, Bonnie S. and Samuel K. Martin Jr., Great Western Investments LLC, 4,650 Sq Ft, $425,813.

Residential Alteration 519 E. Fridley, Rebecca and Erin Taylor, No Contractor Listed, $2,500.

609 S. Grand, Robert Keith and Marisa Bueno, Davidson Builders Inc., $11,500.

3006 Westridge, Andrew and Genevieve Sherman, Owner is General, $9,970.

705 E. Orange, Daniel Ruggles, Dan Mott Construction, $7,000.

3035 Teslow, James D. and Tanya L. Cotterell, Owner is General, $6,500.

411 W. Story, William and Margot Zell, Owner is General, $8,750.

3007 Teslow, Thomas and Carrie Jinneman, Penny Lane Home Builders LLC, $50,500.

215 S. 5th, Joel D. Lindstrom, No Contractor Listed, $6,000.

2401 Fairway, Richard and Rachel Weaver, Sustainable Masonry, $50,000.

Window Replacement Permit 1065 Harmon, David and Amanda Ashburn, Montana Construction Works, $1,200.

Cit y filings

12/20, South University District Ph. 1 MiSUB, PREL PLAT. 12/20, Westbrook, ZMA. 12/20, Westbrook MaSUB, PREL PLAT. 12/20, Boulder Creek MaSUB, PREL PLAT. 12/23, Townshends Tear., RE-USE. 12/23, Tandem Enterprises, ZMA. 12/24, City Water Tank Antennas, MODS TO COA. 12/24, U.S. Bank Antennas, MODS TO COA. 12/24, Farmstead Pizza, SIGN/COA. 12/27, Townshends Teahouse, SIGN/ COA. 12/30, Kavanagh Windows, COA/ ADR. 1/2, Dairy Queen, MODS TO COA. 1/2, Billion Auto Antennas, MODS TO FSP. 1/8, Sub. Review Process, ZCA. 1/8, Cameron Remodel/Addition,

COA/ADR. 1/8, Coldsmoke Coffeehouse, CUP. 1/9, Hacot MiSUB, PREL PLAT. 1/9, MT Import Group Remodel, COA/ADR. 1/9, Safeway Amend Plat Boundary, EXEMPT. 1/9, Brailsford Apartments, SP. 1/10, Billion Auto Used Cars Lighting, MODS TO FSP. 1/10, Town Pump #8, FSP. 1/10, Beverly Court Condos, FSP. 1/14, Smith Window Replacement, COA/ADR. 1/14, Nix Residence, COA. 1/14, Accola Residence ADU, Site Plan.

1/14, Meadow Cr. Blk 4 Lot 1 MaSub, Final Plat.

1/15, Stuart Mill Commercial, CUP. Bankruptcies

Vicki Stenberg. 71 North Shore Dr.

#11, Belgrade. Chapter 7. December 23.

Richardson.

Rolling Glen Ranch Corporation. PO Box 384, Belgrade. Chapter 7. December 26. Womack.

Rocky Del McPherson. 401 E. Gallatin St., Livingston. Chapter 7. December 30. Womack.

Alexander Scott McMahan and Caprice Athena McMahan (fka Caprice Athena Tolley). 3689 Pipestone St., Bozeman. Chapter 7. December 31.

Womack.

David Dwayne Simonson. 810 West Park, Belgrade. Chapter 13. December 31. Drummond.

Gregory Ruff. PO Box 160012, Big Sky. Chapter 7. December 31.

Richardson.

River Dr., Sheridan. Chapter 7. January 10. Crum.

Amanda Michelle Burke. 507 Centenial Dr., Sheridan. Chapter 7. January 11. Richardson.

Amanda Michelle Burke. 507 Centenial Dr., Sheridan. Chapter 7. January 11. Womack.

Kathryn Marie Cassaro. 1215 Durston Rd. #102, Bozeman. Chapter 7. January 13. Richardson.

Brian William Raines and Kari Jane Langley. 100 Ridgeline Ln., Bozeman.

Chapter 13. January 14. Drummond.

L. Myron Tanner and Michele Doris Tanner (fka Michele D. Longwell). PO Box 797, Livingston. Chapter 7. January 16. Richardson.

Stuart Michael Simonsen. 1121 Ruby

B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l • J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014

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Photonics industry forms trade group B y j a s o n B ac a j c h r o n i c l e s ta f f w r i t e r

Another industry tabbed by the city of Bozeman and the state of Montana as having high-growth potential has formed a trade group.

Leaders in the local photonics industry — identified a year ago by the city as an industry poised to create new jobs and strengthen the local economy — met last October to create the Montana Photonics Industry Alliance.

The group held its first get-together for members Tuesday evening at the Beall Park Recreation Center.

“There’s a lot of excitement right now. There’s a lot of momentum,” said Larry Johnson, president of the alliance and founder of ILX Lightwave.

“You’re going to see some interesting growth in the area. I’m guessing that if we get 20 years into the future and look back, we’re going to say this was a really important time.”

The alliance’s focus is currently on the Bozeman area because it has the highest concentration of photonics companies.

One of the alliance’s top goals, Johnson said, is to promote optics and photonics jobs in the state.

Job openings are listed on its website, montanaphotonics.org.

The alliance also plans to help launch and grow new companies, and Johnson said he hopes to make training available for interested members.

Another goal is to discern the size and economic impact of the state’s photonics industry.

Johnson believes it consists of roughly 30 companies employing 300 to 500 people.

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Johnson said the industry group was a long time coming. He credited Montana State University professor and Optical Technology Center director Joe Shaw with initially connecting local photonics companies through an annual conference.

Over time, though, attention from local and state governments and area economic development groups motivated people in the industry to form the alliance.

“I think it was just the right time,” said Stuart Leidner, alliance board member and executive director of the nonprofit Prospera Business Network. “All the key people were ready to make (the alliance), help it move forward.”

Jason Bacaj may be reached at jasonb@dailychronicle.com or 582-2635.

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ja n. 28

Bozeman Area business calendar

-

f eb. 25

To contribute the Business Calendar email srandrus@dailychronicle.com

Bozeman Events

$36 for non-members. Register at www.bozemanchamber.com.

2/4 • Downtown Bozeman Association Board Meeting, 8:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., Downtown Bozeman Partnership Office, 222 E. Main St. Suite 302. All are welcome. Visit www.downtownbozeman.org for more information.

2/6 • Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce Business Before Hours, 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at First American Title Co., 924 Stoneridge Dr. Ste. 1. Free for members, $25 for non-members. Register at www. bozemanchamber.com.

2/11 • Prospera Business Network presents TechAlliance: Growth for the MSU College of Engineering, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., at Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, 2310 University Way, Building 2. $15 for members, $25 for non-members. Register by February 7 at www.prosperabusinessnetwork.org.

2/12 • Bozeman Deaconess Health Services – Present & Future Development, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Holiday Inn, 5 Baxter Ln., $18 for members,

2/12 • Bozeman Business and Professional Women Luncheon “Status of Montana Women”, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Holiday Inn, 5 E. Baxter. $9 for members, $12 for non-members. Register at www.bozemanbpw.org.

2/13 • Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce 4:44 @ 4C, 4:44 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Location To Be Decided. More information and registration at www. bozemanchamber.com.

2/15-2/16 • Wild West WinterFest, at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds. Visit www.wildwestwinterfest.com for more information.

2/17 • Tax Increment Fund Board Meeting, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Downtown Bozeman Partnership office.

2/18 • Business Improvement District Board Meeting, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Downtown Bozeman Partnership office.

Business Benefit Solutions • Funding for buy-sell agreements • Succession planning • Salary continuation

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Contact me for assistance with any of your insurance questions.

2/21 • Bozeman Business and Professional Women Board Meeting, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., at the Bank of Bozeman Conference Room. Members welcome. Visit www.bozemanbpw.org for more information.

3 p.m. on Sunday., at the Park County Fairgrounds. Call Brian Gillette at (406) 580-5458 for more information.

2/14 • Sweet Night at the Depot, 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., at the Livingston Depot Center. Tickets are $40 and available at the Livingston Chamber of Commerce, Sax and Fryer, and American Bank. Visit www. livingston-chamber.com for more information.

belgrade Events 2/4 • Belgrade Chamber of Commerce President’s Circle, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Meeting open to past presidents and past board of directors of the Belgrade Chamber of Commerce.

2/14 • Wilsall Valentines Day Dance, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., at the Wilsall Dance Hall, West Clark St, Wilsall. Admission is $10. Call (406) 578-2257 for more information.

2/7 • Belgrade Chamber Annual Dinner, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Express. Visit www. belgradechamber.org for more information.

2/20 • Network Live! 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Senior Citizens Center of Park County, South Main Street, Livingston. Visit www.livingston-chamber.com for more information.

2/18 • Belgrade Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., at the Belgrade Chamber.

Visit www.belgradechamber.org for more information.

madison county Events

2/20 • Belgrade Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visit www. belgradechamber.org for more information.

2/4 • Ruby Valley Chamber Monthly Board Meeting, 5:15 p.m., at Ruby Valley Bank, Sheridan. Visit www.rubyvalleychamber.com for more information.

park county Events

1/16 • Ennis Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5 p.m to 7 p.m. Visit www.ennischamber. com for more information.

1/29 • Prospera Business Network, Montana Women’s Business Center, Livingston Job Service, and MSU Park County Extension present Fwd Business Series, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at MSU Park County Extension, 119 S. 3rd St., Livingston. No cost. Register by January 28 at www.prosperabusinessnetwork.org.

2/6- 2/9 • Big Sky Big Grass Festival, in Big Sky. Visit www.bigskybiggrass.com for more information.

2/11 • Ennis Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, 9 a.m., at First Madison Valley Bank, Ennis.

Visit www.ennischamber.com for more information.

2/6 • Network Live! 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Big Brothers Big Sisters, South 2nd St., Livingston. Visit www.livingston-chamber.com for more information.

2/11 • Ruby Valley Chamber Annual Membership Meeting, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Wagon Wheel Restaurant, 207 N. Main St., Twin Bridges. Visit www.rubyvalleychamber.com for more information.

2/7- 2/9 • Livingston Gun Show, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m on Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to

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c a l l t o d ay t o p l a c e y o u r a d in the classifieds

Barnard Construction Company, Inc., a national, heavycivil construction company headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, seeks a Human Resources Director.

call 582-2600

Successful candidate will respond to, investigate and resolve a variety of employee relations questions and issues; administer benefit plans; coordinate corporate social events; oversee personnel management and drug abuse prevention programs; ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and laws; oversee corporate Ethics and Compliance Program; oversee Office of Federal Contract Compliance Program (OFCCP program); provide HR management training to supervisors; help develop, record and publish company policies and procedures; and travel to remote projects as required.

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Customer-Focused Sales Professional You are perfect if you are...

Provide full-cycle recruitment function for college and university hiring. This recruiting requires extensive travel l to universities throughout the United States.

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Must possess personnel management experience or related area, have a minimum of five years of HR experience, and preferably have experience in/considerable knowledge of the heavy-civil construction industry.

Part time 20-25 hours/week, most Sat & Sun, summer required. Deliver resumes to Heyday, 7 West Main, Boz.

Send resume with cover letter and salary requirements to: hr@barnard-inc.com or Barnard Construction, ATTN: Ron Holden, P.O. Box 99, Bozeman, MT 59771. EOE.

MECHANIC GALLATIN COUNTY LOGAN LANDFILL Responsible for conducting maintenance and repair of specialized equipment and vehicles to ensure the ongoing operation of the Landfill. Ed & exp equivalent to 2 years of post-secondary ed or formal training plus 4 years of related exp.

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J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

Chemist; The individual will perform all functions involved in routinely analyzing water and soil samples for inorganic and/ or organic constituents as requested by clients.

These analyses are performed in support of ongoing projects within the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, including fundamental research and operation of remediation and treatment facilities.

A bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field and one year of laboratory experience are required.

For more information and to apply for this position, visit .

For more information about the MBMG, potential applicants are advised to visit its website at www.mbmg.mtech.edu.

EEO/AA

PROFESSIONAL HARLOWS BUS SERVICE Location Manager.

Responsible for managing the school bus routes, service department and some bus sales for Harlow's School Bus Service Inc at our Whitehall, Mt location. The successful candidate will provide leadership to achieve and maintain success in the areas of customer/ employee relations, safety and financial performance.

Must possess a commitment to providing excellent customer service and a strong safety culture.

Send contact information and we'll call you or reply by email to adverTise

here

The besT place To be c a l l t o d ay t o p l a c e y o u r a d in the classifieds

call 582-2600

BUSINESS & SERVICE

DIRECTORY 84.9% of Bozeman and Belgrade Business Owners read the Business Journal every month (Alta Marketing Research Survey)

inSurance

window treatmentS

Need New Blinds?

Call Today!

Inc.

broker/owner

18

Professional

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE • Business Vehicles • Worker’s Comp

• Builder’s Risk • Contract Bonds

We have the whole package Contact Doug 585-3527 or 579-6444

Tyler Barnwell Owner

FREE In-Home Estimates

Draperies | Shutters | Shades |

585-7299

Professional Distribution Engineering Supervisor / Mission Valley Power Office located in Pablo, Montana. Starting salary $79,269-$84,933.

Engineering degree required and PE license in MT preferred. On line application and full position description at cskt.org. Closes 2/27/14 Medical

PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Professional

Professional

General

We are growing!

Nurse's Aides Needed

Civil Group Leader

Seeking an experienced civil engineer with project management skills who is ready to lead and grow their own diverse group of civil professionals in an integrated team matrix.

PE with 15+ years experience.

Engineering Revit/CADD Tech

Seeking an experienced CADD technician for drafting and design support for multi-discipline engineering teams. Proficiency in Revit preferred. Visit www.ctagroup.com for complete description.

Submit resume to AA/EOE Dental

ATS Dental Assisting School. Incredible oppty!

Held on Wed & Thurs nights 6-9 p.m. Starts March 5th.

Rewarding career change.

Regular tuition $4399 (books & supplies included). $500 Early Bird Discount for 1st 6 students. 12 month, no interest payment plan avail.

OAC. Call 406-599-9717 or email: atsofbozeman@gmail.com

Advertise here This is Where you WanT To be

call 582-2600

We are a Montana-born company, built on western values, focused on creating long-standing relationships through integrity, expertise and results. Our Belgrade Office is looking for a:

F/T SALES Appliance or lawn & garden sales experience preferred.

Tiered incentive plan + benefits. Pick up application @ Sears in GV Mall.

To view job opportunities, visit us and apply on-line at www.stockmanbank.com EOE Government Associate Director Montana Facility Finance Authority, #65166108, Dept. Commerce, Helena, Salary $39-$55,000 Originating and underwriting loans & program promotion; professional work environment; GREAT benefits.

Contact Job Service or: http://mt.gov “employment”.

This position is Open Until Filled, first review 1/27.

Education

Like to teach Math?

Full-time Faculty position available. Visit website: or call 1-800-446-2698 ADA/AA/EEO

or call 551-2273 General

General

Head Teller

2-3 years Teller experience preferred.

Take great care of our clients, we'll take great care of you.

Aides start $12-$13/hr email Suzette Gackle at

New Year, New Start!

Start the New Year right with a job that is fast paced, challenging and rewarding! Strong office, phone and customer service skills required; Join our team today! _____________________ Students welcome to apply!! (20hrs min/week) $11/hr to start + Excellent Benefits in 60 days Please send resume and cover letter to:

Skilled Trades Ambient Air Solutions, Inc is looking for a full-time, selfmotivated installer for both residential and commercial applications. Must be detailed-oriented with a willingness to learn and advance in a growing company. Please email resume to

F/T Delivery Driver: Looking for long-term employee to grow with expanding business. Must have clean, valid MT license, be able to lift 80lbs regularly, good customer service skills. Mon-Fri, 8-5, $10-12.50/hr DOE. Apply in person at Culligan Water, 15 Shawnee Way, Bozeman MEDICAL

Full-time / Part-time Certified Nurse Aides The Gallatin Rest Home is looking for dependable, pleasant, sensitive, conscientious individuals to work with aged and handicapped people.

We offer: The opportunity to help make a difference in peoples' lives. $12.98/hr + competitive benefits!

Evening hours, 2:00 P.M. to 10:30 P.M. Hours to be discussed at interview.

Any questions can stop by Rest Home, 1221 W Durston or call 582-3300. Contact: Bozeman Job Service

Professional

Childcare 406-587-2429

Technical

Position focuses on education and outreach of the Health Department's cancer prevention and screening programs. Ed & exp equivalent to a BA in nursing, public relations, community health, communications or social services, plus 1yr of related work exp. FT, $2,851.86 to $2,928.42/mo based on an hrly rate of $16.39 to $16.83+Benefits Apply at the Bozeman Job Service or General Building Maintenance F/T position in Bozeman, MT. Plumbing & electrical experience required, HVAC experience a plus. Will also be responsible for lawn care & snow removal.

Send resume to: Building Maintenance P.O. Box 30603, Bilings, MT 59107 or call 406-652-7200 Professional

Travel Agent

Bozeman's leading full service travel agency is looking for a full time, experienced, Corporate Travel Agent. A minimum of three years' experience on Worldspan is preferred.

Salary and Benefits DOE. Email resume to: ed@thetravelstation.com

Be a part of our awesome IT team and have fun supporting technology and coordinating the implementation of new technology systems.

We are looking for IT related experience with MS OS, AD, VMWare, email, telephony, document imaging, MDM, web development, networking, vendor relations and project management.

Financial industry and/or IT security background a plus.

Requires bachelor's degree in technical or engineering discipline; or at least 5-10 years of experience with items listed above. Also required are outstanding troubleshooting; written & verbal communications; as well as customer support skills.

Exceptional benefits including health, dental, vacation, sick leave, 401(k) and much more!

Acceptable credit and criminal histories are required to be considered for position.

Learn more about American Bank at

.

Send resume and letter of application to

the

best plAce to be c a l l T o d ay T o p l a c e y o u r a d in The classifieds

call 582-2600

or mail to American Bank, Attn: Human Resources, P.O. Box 2290, Livingston, MT 59047-2290 Applications accepted through February 15, 2014 or until position filled.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l • J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014

19

Professional

General

Medical

Controller for Central Asia Institute

cars

Classifieds

Homes for Sale!

Ambient Air Solutions, Inc is looking for a full-time, selfmotivated receptionist with extensive computer and communication skills. Must be detailed-oriented with a willingness to learn and expand within a growing company. Please email resume to Medical

adveRtise heRe

Furniture

ReseRve youR ad spaCe today call 582-2600

20

the best plaCe to be c a l l t o d ay t o p l a c e y o u r a d in the classifieds

call 582-2600

J a n u ar y 2 8 , 2 014 • B u s i n e ss j o u r n a l

Seeking a Dental Assistant who believes in our mission of health and wellbeing for all for CHP Bozeman Dental. Collaboration, motivation, attention to detail and organization all highly valued. If you are interested in this position please send a letter of interest, resume, and references to Emily Duffy, . or 120 N 19th, Ste H, Bozeman, MT 59715.

CHP is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

5822600 to a New Job!

Seeking a patient-centered .45 FTE (2 days/week) RN/LPN who believes in a mission of health and wellbeing for all for Community Health Partners Belgrade.

Collaboration, motivation, and attention to detail are all highly valued. If interested, please send your letter of interest, resume, and references to Buck Taylor, taylorb@chphealth.org, or 19 E Main St., Belgrade, MT 59714. CHP is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Medical

www.thejobnetwork.com

Pets

Clerical

Seeking a patient-centered .45 FTE (2 days/week) Medical Provider (FNP/PA) who believes in a mission of health and wellbeing for all for Community Health Partners Bozeman. Collaboration, motivation, and attention to detail are all highly valued. To apply, please send a resume, letter of interest, and references to Buck Taylor taylorb@chphealth.org or 19 E Main St, Belgrade, MT 59714. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Your Ticket

Boats

10:00am-2:00pm, $10.00/hour following school schedule. Download application materials at .

Return application to Gallatin Gateway School, Dr. DeBruycker, PO Box 265, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 Closing date: Feb 7, 2014.

5822600

Central Asia Institute (CAI) seeks a full time dynamic and sophisticated Controller to provide oversight of all finance, accounting, and reporting activities. The Controller leads finance operations including budgeting, reporting, cash management, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.

The Controller assists management with policies, procedures, and systems to support effective financial operation and implementation and to meet the requirements of government laws and regulations. Degree in accounting or finance and CPA required. Salary is commensurate with experience. A full job description is posted on our website: www.ikat.org Please send cover letter, resume/CV, and salary requirements by January 31, 2014 to Jennifer Sipes at: careers@ikat.org

Professional BRANCH MANAGER NEEDED Fast paced, high volume rental store seeking store manager. Applicant should have a minimum 2 years management experience in the rental industry, construction industry, and/or retail industry.

Applicant must possess strong customer services skills and must be able to multitask and be able to think on their feet.

The store manager's duties include but are not limited to: -Accountability for overall branch operations including revenue, profit & loss.

-Management of branch staff, facilities, and equipment (sales, rentals and product support).

-Managing vendor invoicing and rental and merchandise inventories.

-Answer phones and assist customers by writing contracts within our computerized point of sales system along with loading and unloading of equipment.

Regulates/reviews, makes decisions, and strategically plans for the following: -Branch profit & loss, staffing, employee development and training -Equipment utilization, equipment maintenance and safety practices.

-Assist with sales management activities which will include staying abreast to market condition and performing joint sales calls with top customers/ projects.

-Must be able to work some weekends and some holidays.

-Must be able to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 75lbs.

Computer experience helpful. Benefits include paid vacation and holidays.

Applicants must have a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record.

Salary DOE. Candidates will apply by email @

Professional

As a City of Bozeman employee, you will be part of a team that is committed to impacting and serving the community. This great opportunity also provides enrollment in an established retirement system, with significant employer contribution, generous vacation and sick time accruals, and excellent medical/dental/vision benefits.

Join us at the City of Bozeman, the Most Livable Place!

Assistant City Attorney The City of Bozeman, Montana is growing!

We are in need of an experienced attorney to accept a challenging position addressing a wide diversity of legal and organizational matters. We seek an attorney with a lively work ethic, an appreciation for collaboration, qualities of leadership, and an affinity for change. This is a new position with a primary emphasis on civil matters.

Full-Time position with excellent benefits. $64,588 to $70,976 per year as earned depending on experience and qualifications.

PREFERRED APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, February 10, 2014 @ 5:00 p.m.

EOE/ADA/Vet Pref.

Questions can be emailed to gsullivan@bozeman.net.

No phone calls please.

TO APPLY Go to http://www.bozeman.net to view the complete job description and required materials.

The City of Bozeman Application and applicable materials will need to be submitted on-line at http://www.bozeman.net.

IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED, APPLICANTS MUST FOLLOW THE APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS AND SUBMIT COMPLETE AND TIMELY APPLICATION MATERIALS.