B2B Fall 2013

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fa l l 2 0 1 3

business to business connection

helena’s

green leaders

plus

HOW’S HELENA DOING? PAGE 37

GRADUATION MATTERS TO MONTANA BUSINESSES PERSONALITY TYPE INDICATORS CHAMBER MEMBER RIBBON CUTTINGS


3180 N. Washington St. • Helena, MT • (406) 495-0505 www.comfortsuiteshelena.com


INDIVIDUALS/FAMILIES

BUSINESS OWNERS

PROVIDERS

A NEW CHOICE FOR AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE There’s a spirit in Montana. It’s part of who we are — and how we care about one another. Now there’s a healthcare plan that shares these values. Introducing Montana Health CO -OP — offering health insurance with an elusive quality other healthcare plans can’t match: trust. Trust because Montana Health is a CO -OP — as a member you have a voice and a vote in how it’s run. Regain your trust in healthcare with the new Montana Health CO -OP. To learn more, call 855.447. 2900 or visit mhc.coop.

A F F O R D A B L E H E A LT H I N S U R A N C E B Y M O N TA N A N S F O R M O N TA N A N S

Community Roots. National Strength.

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When you’re ready to build on your achievements, our trusted experts are ready to support your personal and professional goals. With our customized tools and services, we can help you grow your enterprise and build a legacy of wealth and success. Helena • 350 North Last Chance Gulch Terry Spalinger Senior Business Relationship Manager • 406-447-2008 Steve Louttit Principal Business Relationship Manager • 406-447-2005 Jake Doubek Business Relationship Manager • 406-447-2010 Sheli Jacoby Business Associate • 406-447-2073 wellsfargo.com

© 2013 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (792344_07301)

2

792344_07301 7.5x5 4c.indd 1

1/14/13 8:19 AM


b2b contents

graduation matters to montana Businesses

Montana business leaders tell me they are looking for workers F a l l 2 0 1 3 / V o l . 2 /who N o. 2 possess critical thinking and communication skills, creativity,

adaptability, resilience and the ability to work in teams. Helena’s business community can play a key role in supporting Graduation Matters Helena: the local school district’s effort to ensure every student graduates from high school with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college or the workforce.

Pacific Steel & Recycling Diamond Products Collision Pro Natural Grocers Intermountain Tri County Disposal Montana State Fund

helena’s

22

Graduation matters to montana businesses

26

montana state fund

37

2013 business barometer: the first six months

24

BY DENISE JUNEAU, Superintendent of public inStruction

Read about local businesses that have committed to protect, preserve, and improve the environment. 7

07–17 & 26

JANUARY 2013 JUNE 2013

From environmental responsibility to consumer safety to good old-fashioned warm feelings, greening one's business practices has become a worthwhile choice. Read about some local businesses that have deepened their approach to sustainability.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE 04 FROM THE president/ceo 04 New Chamber faces 20 Ribbon Cuttings 40 B2B CONVERSATION

31

PERSONALITY TYPes

3


BROUGHT TO YOU BY

welcome

225 Cruse Ave, Suite A Helena, MT 59601 (406) 442-4120 1-800-7HELENA Fax: (406) 447-1532 helenachamber.com

magazine layout and design by

1131 Poplar St Helena, MT 59601 (406) 996-1361 edgemarketingdesign.com

Contributing Authors

I hope you enjoy and find value with this B2B Magazine from the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce. This is our 4th edition and we are striving to bring you news and business information that is pertinent and interesting to you. We are always looking for ideas for stories or themes for stories – so feel free to get your ideas to us! The Helena Chamber has been busy over the summer with two new additions to our staff (Jacob Dysart – Marketing and Communications Director, and Tammy Andridge – Membership Director) – please stop by the office and meet them! (Their bios and photos are below.) We are also excited to roll out several new benefits for members that should be very valuable to you for your marketing plans! We will have the Hot Deals feature that will be sent to 3000+ emails and also on our highly visited website for a very affordable price of $25.00 per deal. Another big savings to those of you who, like me this past summer,

Denise Juneau OFFICE OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION

are recruiting new staff members, is our Jobs Listings. This will allow you to reach the already employed, not especially looking, but great potential candidates. (In a low unemployment city like Helena, sometimes it means attracting someone else’s good help!) These job listings will only cost $50.00 per listing and, if your business is in one of our higher investment tiers, may even be included in your membership for free. Also, we are adding banner ads to the business pages. Keep an eye out for details on these new benefits “only for members.” Hope to see you at the next chamber After Hours Event or other events!

Sincerely, cathy burwell: Chamber President/ceo

Patricia Spencer

n ew f ace s at the chambe r

Marc Scow synergy Institute

Jacob Dysart has joined the

Tammy Andridge

Helena Area Chamber of Commerce

has joined the

as the new Director of Marketing/

Helena Area

Communications. A Kansas City

Chamber of

native, Jacob relocated to Helena

Commerce as the

document may not be reproduced in

in June. He was most recently the

new Membership

whole or in part without the express

Internal Communications Specialist

©2013 All rights reserved. The information contained within this

written permission of the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of information in this publication. However, due to the passage of time and the anomalies inherent in the publishing process, we cannot be responsible for errors or incorrect information. 4

Director. Tammy

for Bayer CropScience’s Kansas City manufacturing facility.

comes to the Chamber with an extensive

Before Bayer, Jacob was the Marketing Coordinator for

background in sales and management,

XIKAR, Inc. He graduated from the University of Kansas in

most recently as the Assistant General

2007 with a BS in Strategic Communications of Journalism

Manager of the Wingate by Wyndham

and a BA in French.

of Helena.


Good news travels fast!

Helping Businesses

PRoSPER aND GRow

The Women's Leadership Network is the leading organization in Helena for women in business to network, educate themselves, and help other women realize their full potential. The organization has been empowering women since 1985. The Mission of Women's Leadership Network is to foster association among women, to educate and encourage them to exert their influence and to achieve personal and professional growth. Join our noon luncheon held the third Women’s Leadership Network Tuesday of each month at the Montana Club. Women’s Leadership Network, P.O. Box 1275, Helena, MT 59624 www.wlnhelena.org

BUSINESS CHECKING | BUSINESS LoaNS LINES oF CREDIT | CaSH MaNaGEMENT oNLINE & MoBILE BaNKING SBA Preferred Lender

Helena: 447-9000

www.stockmanbank.com © 2012 Stockman Bank

Member FDIC

Use the Best that Montana has to Offer Montana’s Full Service Human Resource Management and Employment Agency 210 E. Lyndale

(406) 443-7169

www.westaff.com

Locally Owned by Nancy and Jim Nys 5


w w w. f c b a n k . n e t L E N d I N G I N M O N TA N A F O R OV E R 1 2 0 y E A R S

Competitive rates. Professional service. For all your home buying and banking needs 2987 Prospect Avenue Helena, MT 59601 406-449-9300

FULL SERVICE BRANCH

6

28 N Last Chance Gulch Helena, MT 59601 406-449-9800 NMLS #613382

REAL ESTATE LOAN OFFICE


Pacific Steel & Recycling Diamond Products Collision Pro Natural Grocers Intermountain Tri County Disposal Montana State Fund

helena’s Read about local businesses that have committed to protect, preserve, and improve the environment. 7


Pacific Steel & Recycling

1530 National Ave / Helena / (46) 442-7851 / pacific-steel.com

S

ustaining natural resources for current and future generations is at the heart of Pacific Steel and Recycling’s mission. As a company, Pacific Steel and Recycling strives to find ways to keep recyclable materials out of our solid waste streams and reclaim secondary materials for reuse into new products. “This is a vital step in conserving natural resources while making better use of landfill capacity,” explains Rick Farrow, branch manager of Helena Pacific Steel and Recycling. “By purchasing products at the end of their life and processing them back into raw materials, we reduce the need for virgin materials, such as iron ore, trees and other natural resources. Beyond energy savings, there are equally significant environmental savings as

well, including air emissions, water pollution, water usage and mining waste generation.” Pacific Steel and Recycling is dedicated to using new innovation and technology in maximizing resource recovery and “clean processing.” This process begins in-house, with state of the art drainage racks and environmentally conscious housekeeping methods. Additionally, Meredith explains that Pacific Steel and Recycling is committed to developing management practices that “prevent pollution, conserve resources and mentor stakeholders on how to pursue and achieve similar results. By ‘being green’ we’re creating and maintaining sustainability for the conditions under which we and nature exist.” As an employee owned and operated company, Pacific Steel & Recycling is committed to providing the best possible service and supporting its customers by providing quality steel products and recycling services that fit the needs of the community. Besides Montana, Pacific Steel has offices in Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, North and South Dakota, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, and Canada. For more information on the local Pacific Steel & Recycling operation, log onto http://pacific-steel.com/ locations/helena-mt.

By ‘being green’ we’re creating and maintaining sustainability for the conditions under which we and nature exist. Rick Farrow, branch manager

8


323 N Last Chance Gulch • Helena, MT 406.422.1065 • signsnowhelena.com

SERVING HELENA FAMILIES and surrounding communities within a 60 mile radius

Dedicated to promoting business, quality of life, and economic development through local business alliances.

www.helenachamber.com

HELENA 442-2214 SKILLED NURSES - RNs and LPNs | CERTIFIED NURSES’ AIDES | LICENSED SOCIAL WORKERS PASTORAL COUNSELORS | BEREAVEMENT SERVICES | VOLUNTEER SERVICES | NUTRITIONAL COUNSELORS COMPLEMENTARY THERAPISTS | SPEECH, OCCUPATIONAL and PHYSICAL THERAPISTS Offices in Billings | Bozeman | Butte | Helena

You have a CHOICE.

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22 N. Last Chance Gulch * Helena, MT 59601 Breakfast Lunch Dinner 71 Sleeping rooms *6,000 sq ft of meeting space *Indoor Swimming Pool *Jacuzzi *Fitness Center *Free Wi-Fi

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Holiday Inn Conference Center Downtown Located on Historic Last Chance Gulch

New 2013 Menu!

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Hours: 6:30am– Close 406-443-8515 9


w) and

v

Built for Big Sky Living. Count On Me!

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Luxurious suites • Indoor pool and hot tub Free, hot breakfast buffet Microwaves and fridges in every room Complete conference facilities

2007 N Oakes at Airport Exit (193) Helena 866.300.7100 406.449.3000 2007 North Oakes at Airport Exit (193) Helena, MT

| tub406.449.3000 866.300.7100 Luxurious suites / Indoor pool & hot / Free, hot breakfast buffet Microwaves & fridges in every room / Complete conference facilities

20113862.INDD 1

10

3/22/2010 12:23:31 PM


Diamond Products

1216 Bozeman Ave / Helena / (406) 449-6570 / diamondproductsinc.com

E

ffectiveness, concentrated, environmentally-friendly: these are the three guiding principles behind which Diamond Products, Inc. was founded in 1988. Tom Joehler, a chemist with a degree in environmental science, founded Diamond Products on his belief that it was essential for cleaning products to be designed for environmental soundness to minimize the impact on the environment, but they also had to retain their effectiveness. This is what led him to not only strive to balance these factors, but specifically design products that are highly concentrated so that the packaging required would be minimized. Joehler believes that it is essential for Diamond customers to get the best possible value; therefore, Diamond Products has committed to price products fairly, and package them in an effective, concentrated form. Diamond sells their products locally through a retail store as well as wholesaling them regionally to distributors throughout Montana and the neighboring states. Most products are commercial in nature, but many are suitable for household use as well. They feature a wide variety of products from laundry products to dishwashing products to janitorial products, such

diamond products has committed to price products fairly, and package them in an effective, concentrated form. as floor finish, degreasers, bathroom cleaners, etc., to car wash products and pressure washing compounds. You can find their products in many hotels, restaurants, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and businesses of all sorts throughout the region. Diamond Products distributors are located statewide and can be reached by calling 1-800-398-6457.

11


Collision Pro Auto Body Repair

420 Dorothy St / Helena / (406) 442-4472 / collisionpro.com

F

or owner Barry Reddick, being environmentally conscience is a part of his everyday business plan. Since he opened his first Collision Pro office in Helena in 1993, his aim and mission was to make his business as environmentally efficient as possible. In 1997 Reddick served on the board of EcoStar, a pollution prevention program hosted through Montana State University to recognize businesses that strive to take environmentally responsible steps to reduce solid and hazardous waste, maximize efficiencies, conserve energy and water, improve air quality, and create a more sustainable business model. Through his involvement on the EcoStar board, Reddick learned how to make his business more efficient and environmentally responsible. His efforts were rewarded in 1999, when the Small Business Administration recognized Reddick and Collision Pro with the Outstanding Achievement in Pollution Prevention award. The award recognizes businesses that “voluntary commit to incorporate environmentally sound technologies and practices and for efforts to advance pollution prevention and energy conservation.” In the years since, Reddick has expanded both his business to include a second location and his efforts to make his business more environmentally aware. “We recycle all cardboard, steel, and plastics whenever possible, and we can recycle on site 12

all solvent-based paints,” explains Reddick. In addition, Reddick began using a waterbased paint base coat that has fewer volatile organic compounds, or VOCs: “It is very environmentally friendly and a great product for our customers.” Reddick has also made changes internally to achieve more environmentally efficient operations in his shops. “About two years ago we changed all of the internal lighting to a more energy efficient system and five years ago we went paperless company wide,” explains Reddick. The end result is that the customer receives the best possible service in the most environmentally conscience manner possible. For more information on Collision Pro and Reddick’s efforts to be an environmentally conscience company, check out their website at www.collisionpro.com.

We recycle all cardboard, steel, and plastics whenever possible, and we can recycle on site all solvent-based paints. barry reddick, owner


Natural Grocers

3061 N Montana Ave / Helena / (406) 442-1000 / naturalgrocers.com

Because our actions affect our employees, our customers, our communities and the Earth, we strive to do business in an honest, supportive and sustainable way that benefits everyone. Natural Grocer's mission

O

riginally known as Vitamin Cottage, Natural Grocers was established in 1955 by Margaret and Philip Isely in Golden, Colorado. The Isely’s sold whole-grain breads door-to-door and shared nutrition information with those they met. They found that the more health and nutrition knowledge their neighbors possessed, the healthier the food they wanted. Their door-to-door business was successful enough that within a short time they were able to open their first retail location. Since that time, their operation has expanded to include stores throughout Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. As their website states, Natural Grocer’s mission “goes far beyond the walls of our stores. Because our actions affect our

employees, our customers, our communities and the Earth, we strive to do business in an honest, supportive and sustainable way that benefits everyone.” As such, maintaining a sustainable environment is at the cornerstone of the company’s mission. “Our business practices have a direct effect on the land, waterways, air and sea, and all the creatures that depend on the Earth. We make every effort to understand our impact on the global environment, and to adapt our practices to minimize the use of resources and the creation of pollution and waste.” Natural Grocers offers a full array of natural and organic food products, dietary supplements, natural body care products, and household and pet products. For more information about Natural Grocers and their mission, log onto http://www.naturalgrocers.com. 13


Intermountain

500 S Lamborn St / Helena / (406) 442-7920 / intermountain.org

O

perating for more than 100 years, Intermountain has provided mental health and educational services to meet the needs and challenges of children and their families. It accomplishes this through a relationship-based approach supported by an array of therapeutic services and directed treatments on both the residential campus and in communitybased settings. In 2012 alone, more than 1300 children and families were assisted with a variety of services including psychological evaluation, psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, home and school support and special services for adoptive and foster families. In building its new Community Services Center at 3240 Dredge Drive and the new cottages still under construction on its residential campus at 500 South Lamborn, Intermountain has chosen to affirm its commitment to healthy children and families, with attention to the environmental as well. From doors made of renewable bamboo to staff recycling facilities, Intermountain makes conscientious efforts to reduce its global foot print. Energy is conserved through the use of high-efficiency systems, natural lighting and carefully planned landscaping while materials are conserved with the 14

use of renewable products and cost-efficient, durable exterior materials. Intermountain’s effort to incorporate good environmental practices is a natural extension of its long time commitment to help create a community that supports healthy choices and lifestyles for children and families.

Intermountain has chosen to affirm its commitment to healthy children and families, with attention to the environment, as well.


Imagine a bank that actually helps you get what you need. Work with one of Montanans Top SBA lenders who has

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The Only Vet Clinic of Its Kind in Montana. And it ’s right here in Helena.

www.montanavetspecialists.com

406.449.3539

(406) 422-1008

1660 Euclid Ave

828 Great Northern Blvd, Helena, MT

IT’S MORE

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449.2680 Helena  586.1505 Bozeman/Belgrade  www.rmcu.net 16


Tri County Disposal

3630 York Rd / Helena / (406) 227-6300 / ccsanitation.com

Tri County's mission is to supply their customers with the best possible customer service while ensuring a healthy, sustainable organization that is concerned about the environment.

F

or over 47 years Tri County Disposal, also known as CityCounty Sanitation, has been a locally owned and family operated full-service waste removal business with a true dedication to customer service. In addition to the “traditional” solid waste removal services that Tri County offers, they also offer all commercial customers corrugated cardboard recycling. Working with Helena Recycling LLC, Tri County Disposal offers to their residential customers door-to-door recycling. This program allows individuals the opportunity

to recycle newspaper, magazines, aluminum and tin from the convenience of their own curb. Tri County Disposal donates time and equipment to all SAVE sponsored recycling drives. For owners Donna Tenneson, Doug Sparrow, and Deanna Linkenbach, the emphasis of Tri County’s mission is on supplying their customers with the best possible customer service while ensuring a healthy, sustainable organization that is concerned about the environment.

17


jobpostings

s i m p l e Su b mi t & M an a g e D a te s e f f e c t i v e Re a c h T h o u sa n d s o f L o c al s & Vi si to r s s av e M o n ey & Ti me Your employees are your life-blood, so why not pick them from the best talent-pool. The Chamber’s new Job Listing feature will allow you to tap into a huge talent pool of locals and relocations without the mess of some huge career website.

B e st o f a l l , at $ 5 0 p e r j o b l i st i n g, yo u wo n’ t b rea k t h e b a n k . Contact Tammy Andridge for price details: 447-1945 tandridge@helenachamber.com

New West simplifies the Medicare process so you can focus on what’s important to you. Our knowledgeable local representatives offer straightforward information with personalized service. Contact us and we will help you understand your options. New West Makes Medicare Simple.

888-873-8044 · TTY 711 newwestmedicare.com

New West is Here for You. 18

New West Health Services is a health plan with a Medicare contract. Phone hours of operation 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefits. For more information, contact New West Medicare. Benefits may change on January 1 of each year. H2701_NW#469A-11-12 CMS Accepted


Providing a return on the trust you invest in us i n n o v at i v e

|

experienced

|

d e d i c at e d

(you know. a little embarrassing. expensive to remove.)

start right w w w. e d g e m a r k e t i n g d e s i g n . c o m

4 0 6 . 9 9 6 .1 3 6 1

Helena

www.ghg-cpa.com 910 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena 406.442.5520

The math is simple. Healthy Employees = Lower Insurance Costs Companies that have established worksite wellness programs to help employees get healthier show a

25% decrease in sick leave and health care costs*

It’s all in the numbers. If you’d like to see how a wellness program can make your budget healthier, call 444-2128.

*source: American Journal of Health Promotion

www.stpetes.org

19


ribbon cuttings Through September 12, 2013

20

C ro wl e y F l eck , Hele n a O rtho d o n t ics , S tate Fa rm - Mi k e Mi lle r, a nd Q ui n n Er wi n D e n tal

Cal l ĂŠ is Sal on & Spa

Ja cob y & D ee I n sura n ce, LLC

Littl e Caes ars

Stockman Bank, Sanders Branch

T he D eal e rs h ip Al te rnative


Hel e na Co mmun i ty Cred i t U n i o n , Sa n d e rs Bra n ch

Hel e na Food Share Sharing Shel te r

Mo nta n a I n d e pe n d e n t Li v i n g P ro ject

Moons hine G ril l

S t ra teg i c Acco un ti n g Soluti o n s

Sl eek Phys iq u e

Tou ch m a rk o n Sa d d le D ri v e

Ul tra Vac Se r vices 21


graduation matters To Montana Businesses Montana business leaders tell me they are looking for workers who possess critical thinking and communication skills, creativity, adaptability, resilience and the ability to work in teams. Helena’s business community can play a key role in supporting Graduation Matters Helena: the local school district’s effort to ensure every student graduates from high school with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college or the workforce.

BY DENISE JUNEAU, Superintendent of Public Instruction 22


I

n today’s economy, a quality public education is the key to economic prosperity for our young people. As parents, taxpayers, business owners and educators, we cannot ignore the long-term economic consequences of students not graduating from high school. Each year, more than 1,800 students drop out of high school in Montana – that’s too many. In response to our dropout challenge, I launched Graduation Matters Montana (GMM), a multi-pronged, statewide effort to ensure Montana’s public schools are meeting the goal of graduating students who are prepared for college and the workforce. Since starting the initiative in 2010, 33 communities have joined Graduation Matters. Seventy percent of high school students currently attend a Graduation Matters school, and nearly 8,000 students have pledged to graduate. Graduation Matters is vastly aided by key Montana employers, including a grant

from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation for $450,000 so communities can work together to lower their dropout rates over the next three years; grants from State Farm Insurance, the Student Assistance Foundation and Steel-Reese Foundation; and support from Montana United Way chapters, Optimum Cable, First Interstate Bank, and Northwestern Energy. In the last year, more than 250 businesses and community organizations have joined local GMM teams. These businesses are actively involved in promoting local GMM work, including: + Displaying GMM posters in their offices; + Participating in career fairs, speaking to classes about their industry, and inviting teachers to visit their offices to see innovative new business trends; + Increasing summer internships and schoolyear job shadowing opportunities;

+ Giving employees time off during work hours to volunteer at the school or attend their child’s school events; and + Leading GMM program initiatives, like a leadership development class for middle school students. Montana business leaders are at the table, and it’s easy to see why. These business leaders understand the link between an educated workforce and a strong economy. According to the Alliance for Excellent Education, the lost lifetime earnings in Montana from dropouts this year alone total nearly $830 million. The economy of Montana would see a combination of crimerelated savings and additional revenue of about $19.6 million each year if the male high school graduation rate would increase by just five percent. Simply put, improving the graduation rate makes dollars and sense. More and more, our kids are going to need training after

high school to compete for jobs in today’s 21st century economy. By 2018, it is estimated that more than 60 percent of jobs will require training and education beyond high school. Compare that to 1973, when only 28 percent of jobs required education after high school. Workers in Montana who didn’t finish high school make on average $9 per hour, while college graduates make on average $17 per hour. We cannot expect to have a booming economy on $9 per hour wages. The changing demands of our economy require greater collaboration between K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and businesses. Each of us has a role to play and a stake in the success of today’s students. Montana students are capable of developing the skills necessary to succeed in a global economy. We need to challenge them, provide them with opportunities for relevant, engaging classes and work experiences, and allow them to rise to the challenge.

To learn how you can get more involved in your local Graduation Matters initiative, contact Deborah Halliday, Office of Public Instruction, at 406-444-3559 or dhalliday@mt.gov, or visit our website: www.graduationmatters.mt.gov 23


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CenturyLink is proud to call Montana home. For home 1.800.475.7526 For business 1.877.744.4416 Click centurylink.com

Services may not be available everywhere. CenturyLink may change, cancel, or substitute offers and services, or vary them by service area, at its sole discretion without notice. Requires credit approval and deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions – All products and services listed are governed by tariffs, terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at www.centurylink.com. High-Speed Internet (HSI) – Private, direct connection and speed claims are based on CenturyLink providing High-Speed Internet subscribers with a dedicated, virtual-circuit connection to the CenturyLink central office. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc. All other marks are property of their respective owners. ©2013 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

CONTACT US:

Morrison-Maierle, Inc. 1 Engineering Place Helena, Montana 59602

406.442.3050

ENGINEERS SURVEYORS PLANNERS

m-m.net

Providing resources in partnership with clients to achieve their goals.

Quality, affordable health insurance solutions

Visit chamberchoices.com for more information

CONTACT US:

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Applying knowledge, creativity and information technology to improve your business.

Clear Answers. Practical Solutions. 24

getsystems.net

SCIENTISTS

Helping small businesses solve the health insurance puzzle


SHD Chmb rep 0112

1/12/12

4:38 PM

Page 1

A history of caring. Commitment to the future.

GE LLE O C

ND U BO

We’re your roadmap to your future.

• Residential and acute psychiatric care for children • Clinical and laboratory medical genetic services for people of all ages

No matter where you are on your path to higher education... let nonprofit Student Assistance Foundation be your guide. Let us help you stay on track as you navigate the roadblocks on the route to college.

Caring for Montana's Families Since 1896

www.shodair.org

406-444-7500 1-800-447-6614 2755 Colonial Drive Helena, MT 59601

(877) COLG4ME

SmartAboutCollege.org

experience what does

look like?

COMMERCIAL LENDING JACK BERRY V. President, Commercial Loan Officer 3401 N. Montana Avenue 406-457-7183

DAVID PERETTO V. President, Commercial Loan Officer 25 East Lyndale Ave. 406-457-7141

GUY ALMQUIST V. President, Commercial Loan Officer 25 East Lyndale Ave. 406-457-7143

Competitive Rates • Flexible teRms Cash management • meRChant pRoCessing expeRienCed and knowledgeable lendeRs

visit your local branch or firstinterstate.com

25


montana state fund:

A sustainable

Business Decision

26


Montana State Fund

855 Front St / Helena / (406) 495-5000 / montanastatefund.com

Every decision made has an impact on how an insurer, like Montana State Fund (MSF), sustains itself and is able to fulfill its long term mission. Almost ten years ago MSF had outgrown their current leased building and they had another 60 employees working at locations leased off-site. They needed a better option, one that would allow the entire staff to work in a single location and improve, rather than impede, their ability to serve customers.

Ultimately, the organization decided to build a new office. “But like all important decisions we make, said Laurence Hubbard, President and CEO of Montana State Fund, it was a deliberative process.” After more than a year of study and public meetings, the management team, the Montana State Fund Board of Directors and the Montana Board of Investments determined the smartest most sustainable option, financially and operationally, was for Montana State Fund to invest a small percentage their portfolio into a new office building. As owner, Montana State Fund would be adding an asset to its books that would appreciate and provide a benefit over time. The building would be located in downtown Helena to keep their 300 employees working, eating lunch and running errands downtown. And the structure would be sustainable in construction and beyond — incorporating Montana-made materials, being energy efficient and allowing for growth over time. 855 FRONT STREET It has been over three years since MSF moved into 855 Front Street in the Great Northern Town Center area, and it is living up to its goal of being a smart, sustainable investment. The three-story floor plan is open and emphasizes natural light. It is a Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified building which means it is about as energy efficient and sustainable as a building can be. “We’ve created a work environment that is team oriented and encourages collaboration. We have a workforce that is more productive and satisfied, which delivers even better customer service,” said Hubbard.

Sensors actually measure available daylight and adjust the office lighting to reduce energy usage. The climate control system is built around an in-basement heat exchanger that is highly efficient year-round. Heat from the data closets is captured and used to keep sidewalks free of ice to reduce falls by employees and visitors in winter. Rain water is captured from a green roof and used to irrigate landscaping. The natural light in the building also creates a better environment for serving staff and our customers. And, according to Hubbard, MSF’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond the building: “Our day to day operations are also in step with our ‘green’ mission to help the environment. The majority of our newsletters are now paperless, we have recycling bins set up throughout the building, we encourage employees to bring their own dishes and silverware to employee potlucks, and we have an employee Green Committee that seek environmentally-friendly solutions for the organization. We realize that our actions today will affect the future of Montana, and we want to ensure we have done our part.”

27


THE HELENA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE invites you to join us for a dynamic presentation aimed at board members and executives to answer the questions and challenges faced by non-prot organizations. To RSVP please call 442-4120 or e-mail rretz@helenachamber.com. Seating is limited so reserve your spot early!

B E S T

B O A R D S

OCTOBER 29, 2013

I N

A M E R I C A

P R E S E N T E R

10:00 - 12:00 p.m. Intermountain Community Center 3240 Dredge Drive, Helena, MT

Cost: $99 per organization send up to 10 board members

GET ANSWERS Who should serve on boards? You? Me? Or the person behind the tree? What are the best qualications to serve on a non-prot board? Where can I nd my true role and list of responsibilities? When should I serve and how long should I serve? How can I manage my volunteer, professional and personal time all at once? Plus! How can I spread my time, talent and treasure equally and fairly? Plus! If we can’t afford the money and time to plan, the last plan failed. Plus! Without vision we are blind. Without mission we are mute. Plus! Much more! 28

Patrick McGaughey CPF, IOM Consultant / Speaker, ActivatingPeople.com President, ChamberMentor.com Faculty member, U.S. Chamber of Commerce - Institute for Organizational Management Renown motivational speaker and trainer, Patrick McGaughey is a faculty member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management and is well regarded for his ability to entertain while sharing his knowledge and expertise with business executives and their teams.


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personality types I'M NOT CRAZY! I’M JUST NOT YOU! BY marc scow, synergy institute

Let me ask you a question: Do any of you have ‘people problems’ in your life? In your home life? In your work life? In your businesses? In your churches? In your communities? So this is a pretty common occurrence, you say. “People problems” … they seem to be common among all of us! So can we all agree that if it weren’t for people, there would be a lot less tension, there would be a lot less strife … a lot less conflict in our world? Oh wait, there would be no “OUR.” OK, never mind! SO, I’m guessing that none of us would choose to be in a world without people. Which leaves us with, “How do we work with people, even though a lot of ‘them’ seem to be crazy?”That’s what this is all about!

B

riefly, it’s about the personality preferences that we’re all born into according to Carl Jung, the famous Swiss psychologist. Let’s demonstrate. I want everyone to fold his or her arms. Now, change the one that’s on top. Or, fold your hands. Now, change them so a different thumb is on the outside. Feels strange and weird doesn’t it? Our personalities operate the same way. Although there are a number of “personality type” tools available, one highly regarded and extensively used method for measuring preferences is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator assessment, or MBTI. I have used this tool for over 30 years

in a variety of situations with great success. MBTI measures how people perceive the world and how they make decisions. According to this type theory we are all born with four distinct personality preferences, that when taken together, form one of 16 (4X4) possible “personality” types. Now, that’s not to say that environment, experience, birth order and other variables don’t also influence our personalities, but those influences revolve around our innate core personality that is defined by our four preferences. There are no right or wrong answers, merely a preference, similar to righthandedness or left-handedness. > continued on page 33

Greater cooperation and harmony should be possible if we can learn to understand and appreciate the ways in which others differ from ourselves. – Peter Briggs Myers 31


the myers-briggs type indicator ISTJ

“DOING WHAT SHOULD BE DONE” Organizer - Compulsive Private - Trustworthy Rules and Regs - Practical MOST RESPONSIBLE

ISTP

“READY TO TRY ANYTHING ONCE” Very Observant - Cool and Aloof Hands-on Practicality - Unpretentious Ready for What Happens MOST PRAGMATIC

ESTP

“THE ULTIMATE REALIST” Unconventional Approach - Fun Gregarious - Lives for Here and Now Good at Problem Solving MOST SPONTANEOUS

ESTJ

“LIFE'S ADMINISTRATORS” Order and Structure - Sociable Opinionated - Results Driven Producer - Traditional MOST HARD CHARGING

ISFJ

“A HIGH SENSE OF DUTY” Arrivable - Works Behind the Scenes Ready to Sacrifice - Accountable Prefers “Doing” MOST loyal

IS FP

“SEES MUCH BUT SHARES LITTLE” Warm and Sensitive - Unassuming Short Range Planner - Good Team Member In Touch with Self and Nature MOST ARTISTIC

ESFP

“YOU ONLY GO AROUND ONCE IN LIFE” Sociable - Spontaneous - Quip Master Loves Surprises - Cuts Red Tape Juggles Multiple Projects/Events MOST GENEROUS

ES FJ

“HOST AND HOSTESSES OF THE WORLD” Gracious - Good Interpersonal Skills Thoughtful - Appropriate Eager to Please MOST HARMONIZING

INFJ

INTJ

“AN INSPIRATION TO OTHERS” Reflective/Introspective Quietly Caring - Creative Linguistically Gifted - Psychic MOST CONTEMPLATIVE

“EVERYTHING HAS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT” Theory Based - Skeptical - “My Way” High Need for Competency Sees World as Chessboard MOST INDEPENDENT

INF P

“PERFORMING NOBLE SERVICES TO AID SOCIETY” Strict Personal Values Seeks Inner Order/Peace Creative - Non-Directive - Reserved MOST IDEALISTIC

ENF P

ENTP

“GIVING LIFE AN EXTRA SQUEEZE” People Oriented - Creative Seeks Harmony - Life of Party More Starts Than Finishes MOST OPTIMISTIC

ENFJ

INTP

“A LOVE OF PROBLEM SOLVING” Challenges Others to Think Absent-minded Professor Competency Needs - Socially Cautious MOST CONCEPTUAL

“ONE EXCITING CHALLENGE AFTER ANOTHER” Argues Both Sides of a Point to Learn Brinkmanship - Tests the Limits Enthusiastic - New Ideas MOST INVENTIVE

“SMOOTH TALKING PERSUADER” Charismatic - Compassionate Possibilities for People Ignores the Unpleasant - Idealisting MOST PERSUASIVE

ENTJ

“LIFE'S NATURAL LEADERS” Visionary - Gregarious - Argumentative Systems Planners - Take Charge Low Tolerance for Incompetency MOST COMMANDING

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32


> continued from page 31

Overview of the Four Preferences In a nutshell, a brief description of the four personality preferences: Do you prefer to focus on the outer world or on your own inner world? Do you get energy from your inner world or outer world? This is the preference for Extroversion (E) or Introversion (I). How do you prefer to gather or take in information? Do you prefer to focus on what’s right here, right now using “just the facts” as evidenced by your four senses or do you prefer to use your intuition, interpret and add meaning? This is the preference for Sensing (S) or Intuition (N). How do you tend to make decisions? Do you tend to look at logic, fairness and consistency or look at the people and individual circumstances? This is the preference for Thinking (T) or Feeling (F). How do you relate to the outside world? Do you prefer closure, to get things decided sooner than later, or do you prefer to remain open to new options and information? This is the preference for Judging (J) or Perceiving (P). Now, before we go much further, it’s important to recognize that all of us can and do use our opposite preferences. “Thinkers do feel and feelers do think!” BUT, most of us do have a clear preference for one over the other. Extroversion or Introversion Let’s focus on the first pair of preferences: Extroversion and Introversion. Extroverts like to think out loud to process information. Introverts like

to think through information to process. If you want to know what an Extrovert thinks, just listen. If you want to know what an Introvert thinks, just ask. A common regret of Extroverts: “Whoa, I can’t believe I said that!” Of Introverts, “Darn, I wish I would have said that!” To recharge and renew their energy, Extroverts like to be out and about in the world of people and things; Introverts like to find quiet and solitude. A Personal Example: Extroversion and Introversion Run Amuck! There are a lot of stresses, tensions and misunderstandings in our lives just based around personality preferences and types. As an example, to demonstrate the Extrovert/Introvert difference, I’ll tell a story on my wife - an Introvert and I - an Extrovert. For the first few years we were married I thought we were making decisions together. It was an honest mistake… we’d have a decision to make and we’d be “brainstorming.” She’d be nodding. I thought she was agreeing with me. SO, full steam ahead, I’d go forward with “our” decision. A couple weeks later it would turn out to be a lousy decision. She would look at me and say, “I thought it was a stupid idea in the first place.” I’d say, “What do you mean, we made that decision together! Don’t you remember, we were brainstorming and you were agreeing?” She replied, “Number one, we weren’t brainstorming; I couldn’t get a word in edgewise! Number two; we weren’t agreeing, I needed time to think about it!” That’s a distinct difference between Introverts and Extroverts. As an Extrovert, I

MBTI: Four Preferences Source of Energy

E

Extrovers ion

S

Sens ing

T

Thinking

J

Judgment

Introve rsi o n

I

I nt u i t i o n

N

Fe e l i n g

F

Perce p t i o n

P

Way of G atheri ng Informati on

Deci si on M a ki ng

Rel ati ng to the Externa l Worl d

don’t know what you Introverts do inside there, or why you’d want to … BUT, I’ve come to really value your internal processing. So now when my wife and I are in our “right minds,” I’ll preface my remarks with “I’m thinking out loud, I’m brainstorming, these are random thoughts, this is flow of consciousness.” And, she’ll take it all into her human biocomputer as raw data. And then we’ll “sleep on it” for two hours or two days, whatever – whatever you Introverts do with that raw data – and she’ll come up with ideas I never would have come up with. AND, she couldn’t have done it without my raw data. Do you see the synergy in that? Real World Implications and Applications Now that’s just one of the pairs of preferences. When we add in the other three to the mix we come up with a rich and complex diversity of people. There is no better or best type, we need all 16 types in the world. Just a few of the benefits that an understanding of personality type can bring: + Helps you to better understand yourself and others + Helps leaders understand how best to lead people

through change + Helps teams work more effectively together + Helps teams adapt their communication style to the needs of their audience A Final Word of Caution Type can be misused and abused! It’s not meant to “pigeon-hole” or judge people. AND, it’s not meant to be a “cop-out.” “My type doesn’t do details.” Or “I don’t have to talk to people, I’m an Introvert.” “I don’t have to listen to people, I’m an Extrovert.” These are all cop-outs! We are all called to be who we truly are and to develop over a lifetime our opposite preferences. “I’m not crazy, I’m just not you!” AND, “You’re not crazy, you’re just not me!” About the author: Marc Scow’s range of services includes training, mediation, facilitation, motivational speaking and coaching. For over thirty years Marc has provided these services for non-profits, government agencies (federal, state, county, city), schools, universities, churches, hospitals and private businesses. He works effectively with individuals, small and large groups of all ages. He brings experience working with issues ranging from interpersonal, family, workplace, business, and community; state, regional, national and international. One of his many tools includes certification as a trainer for Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Contact Marc: marcscow@ gmail.com 406-459-0075 33


teens

at the library

Get Involved!  F irst Friday Movie Nights  Teen Tech Tutors  Anime Club  Teen Writers Group  Teen Advisory Group

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Deloitte is here to serve. 350 North Last Chance Gulch Suite 301 Helena, MT 59601

www.deloitte.com As used in this document, “Deloitte” means Deloitte Consulting LLP, a subsidiary of Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/ about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Copyright © 2012 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved. Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

34


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MWB_Helena Chamber B2B magazine


J ANUARY 2 0 1 3 J UNE 2 0 1 3

F IRST SI X MONTHS

business barometer

37


business barometer F IRST SI X MONTHS

employment trends January 2013-June 2013

LEWIS & CLARK COUNTY LABOR FORCE

EMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYED

RATE

Jan

35,218

33,344

1,874 5.3%

Feb

35,206

33,462

1,744 5.0%

Mar

35,314

33,603

1,711 4.8%

April 35,339

33,876

1,463 4.1%

May

35,319

33,231

1,387 3.9%

June 35,894

34,286

1,608 4.5%

MONTANA LABOR FORCE

EMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYED

RATE

Jan

502,257

468,158

34,099

6.8%

Feb

503,669

471,244

32,425

6.4%

Mar

504,712

473,157

31,555

6.3%

April 508,805

480,744

28,061

5.5%

May

511,750

486,533

25,217

5.4%

June

515,994

487,821

28,173

5.5%

residential real estate January 2013-June 2013

(Research Compiled by Mark Simonich, HAR)

J an Feb Ma r A p r i l May J une 38

homes sold

average sale price

Average days on market

5 6 $ 2 0 9 , 9 3 5 3 8 $ 1 9 9 , 2 7 5 5 6 $ 2 2 7, 2 1 6 6 6 $ 2 3 1 , 4 9 8 8 7 $ 2 1 2 ,1 2 0 8 6 $ 2 2 0 , 8 3 7

133 151 133 166 109 116


10K

air passenger traffic January 2013-June 2013

ON OFF TOTAL %2013 VS. 2012 Jan 7,270 6,965 14,235 4.2% on vs. 4.6% off 4.4%

100K

POPULATION Estimate Dec. 2012

state

Feb 6,657 6,462 13,119 0.4% on vs. - 1.6% off -0.6% Mar 8,081 7,877 15,958 -4.3% on vs. 0.2% off -2.1% April 7,266 7,692 14,958 1.4% on vs. 0.4% off 0.9% May 8,125 8,464 16,589 -1.8% on vs. - 0.2% off -1.0%

1,005,141 L&C C ounty

June 8,299 8,767 17,066 0.9% on vs. 3.2% off 2.1% YTD

45,698

46,227

91,925 0.0% on vs. 1.1% off 0.5%

68,876 helena (city limits)

construction permits January 2013-June 2013 City of Helena

Commercial Jan Feb Ma rch Apri l May Jun e

1 4 • $ 2,93 1 ,5 53 1 2 • $ 1 ,03 2 ,4 8 1 1 0 • $ 1 ,03 4 ,28 8 1 7 • $ 2 ,9 4 3 ,9 1 6 24 • $ 2,3 3 1 ,93 1 1 9 • $ 3 ,3 89,3 0 4

residential Jan 8 • $ 1 ,3 02,8 61 Feb 1 0 • $ 1 ,1 02,8 49 Ma rch 1 6 • $ 3 ,1 3 8 ,5 4 5 Ap ri l 1 7 • $ 2 ,5 0 9,2 9 6 May 1 8 • $ 9 61 ,04 5 Ju n e 2 1 • $ 2 ,1 76 ,9 0 6

residential electrical permits

January 2013-June 2013 (Unincorporated Area)

Lewis & clark county July...... 17 au g . . ..... 11 se pt . . ... 29 o c t...... 36 n ov . . .... 32 de c ...... 25

29,134 surrounding south & east

8,227 surrounding west & valley

7,883

jefferson county July......... 5 au g.......... 2 se pT......... 5 o c t....... 4 n ov . . ..... 7 de c ....... 2

total helena area

45,244 39


Conversation the marlow theater

Robert F. Morgan While in high school, Morgan went to work for Fligelman’s Department store as a store window designer, where he worked until he took a job with the Montana Historical Society in 1952. A self-taught artist and fourth generation Montanan, Morgan has become a world renowned artist. He is one of the founding members of the Western Rendezvous of Art, originating the popular “Quick Draw” event. Morgan is one of only two artists whose work has been selected for every C.M. Russell Auction. He served the Montana Historical Society for more than 20 years as exhibit designer, Curator, and one year as acting director. Among the many awards he has received include the Governor’s Award for the Arts, the Bob Scriver Award, the Trustees Award from the Montana Historical Society, and the Community Service Award from Carroll College. His works are deep-seated in local and Western history.

ming opera house Thomas Marlow, a prominent banker in Helena for nearly fifty years, was the nephew of entrepreneur Colonel Broadwater. Marlow came to Montana in 1881 to work for his uncle at Fort McGinniss. He moved to Helena in 1890 to help reorganize his uncle’s failing bank. Marlow became president of the Montana National Bank. When the Montana National merged with Hauser’s First National, Marlow was appointed president of the new First National Bank and Trust Company. In addition, Marlow played a key role in the organizing and managing of the Helena branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis that opened in 1921. He developed the War Finance Corporation and the Montana Livestock Finance Corporation, programs that were instrumental in helping many Montana ranchers during the depression years. He invested in the construction of the Marlow Theater, the Placer Hotel, and Canyon Ferry Dam.

40

Well known throughout the Northwest as a first class opera house, the Ming Opera House hosted many famous performers in its short thirty year tenure. Built in 1880 under the guidance of John Ming, the opera house featured ornate handpainted scenery drapes which are still used from time to time. Ming died in 1887 and the opera house became The Helena Theater and could seat 1,000. The Masons, who acquired the building in 1912, commissioned architects George Carsley and C.S. Haire to remodel the facility in the Egyptian Revival style in 1915. The elaborate remodel included the installation of a $10,000 pipe organ in the auditorium which is still used occasionally.

edwards street

Edwards Street was a densely populated, twoblock business area that once ran from North Main (now Last Chance Gulch) west to Olive Street. Historic maps of Helena show that by the early 1880s, Edwards was already crowded with businesses lining both sides of the street. Originally livery-related businesses populated the tiny two block area, but those businesses were quickly replaced by many of Helena’s well known, but now gone, landmarks. Edwards Street was home to the Montana National Bank (now site of the Livestock Building); the Union Bank; the Merchants Bank; Eddy’s Bakery (now the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Downtown Conference Center); Dr. Everett Lindstrom’s Helena Clinic; the Cummings School of Dance; the Helena Meat Company; the Union Bus Depot; the first location of the Helena Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis; an assay office; an electrical supply shop; numerous state and federal offices; and the majestic Marlow Theater.


Feeling useful feels good. Work heals. That’s why Montana State Fund is dedicated to working with employees, employers and physicians to get injured employees back on the job as soon as medically possible. Our Return to Work programs include modified duties, physician-approved task sheets and processes for reporting. Ask your insurance agent about Return to Work programs or visit www.safemt.com.

RetuRn to WoRk PRogRams


Helena Area Chamber of Commerce 225 Cruse Ave, Suite A Helena, MT 59601

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Helena, MT 59601 Permit No. 205

business to business connection

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A n i n d e p e n d e n t l i c e n s e e o f t h e B lu e c r o s s A n d B lu e s h i e l d A s s o c i At i o n , A n A s s o c i At i o n o f i n d e p e n d e n t B lu e c r o s s A n d B lu e s h i e l d p l A n s .


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