Bis-Man INC! September 2023

SEPTEMBER 2023

Volume 2 Issue 9

Publisher EDITORIAL Editorial Team Lead

Editors

Art Director Editorial Graphic Designer

Creative Strategist

Content Specialist

Contributors

INTERACTIVE Business Development Manager Business Development Associate Videographer Director of Creative Strategies

Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING VP of Business Development

Sales Representative

Sales & Marketing Advisor

Client Relations

Client Relations Manager

Marketing Coordinator

Operations Assistant DISTRIBUTION Delivery

Mike Dragosavich

Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Geneva Nodland, Grant Ayers

Kim Cowles

Ty Betts

Josiah Kopp

Gary Ussery

Julie Hinker of VBOC of The Dakotas, Arielle Windham of Ladyboss Lifestyle

Nick Schommer

Kellen Feeney

Tommy Uhlir

Megan Bergeson

Ben Buchanan

Paul Hoefer Paul@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Al Anderson Al@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Tori Helland

Tori@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

ClientRelations@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Jenny Johnson

Jessica Mullen

Miranda Knudson

John Stuber

Spotlight, LLC 4609 33rd Ave S Suite #304 Fargo, ND 58104 or info@spotlightmediafargo.com

ADVERTISING: 701-478-SPOT (7768)

A SLICE OF SUCCESS

Just as networking organizations, such as the previously covered 1 Million Cups platform, can inspire innovation across the Bismarck-Mandan business landscape, so too can stories of trailblazers like Nardello who walk their own new road from the start. The journey of entrepreneurship is as diverse as the individuals who embark upon it, and it's my hope that this tale serves as a guiding light, illuminating the paths that lie ahead for readers.

In the pages that follow, immerse yourself in Steven Nardello's journey, along with many other uplifting stories from this community, as they could inspire you to take your own next steps. Embrace the road less traveled, just as he and so many others have, as that's where the seeds of success lie. For any young people unsure of their next steps, Steven's story represents what so many of us go through at one point or another: nobody ever really has it figured out from the start. Paths change, people grow, and new goals are created every day.

n the world of entrepreneurship here in BismarckMandan, it's a true privilege for me to share incredibly inspiring tales of entrepreneurs from all fields. In my eyes, these people have all been visionaries who stepped out and embarked on the road less traveled, pushing their dreams to new heights, many from a young age. To me, Steven Nardello, founder of Nardello's Pizza and Jimmy V's in Bismarck, represents exactly that.

In this issue, we dive into Steven's journey and discuss how he took a small idea to own a pizzeria and ran with it. Fresh out of high school and not wanting to pursue secondary education, he traveled across the country to learn the ins and outs of operating an authentic pizza restaurant. It's a bold move that, to be honest, I could not have imagined doing at 18 years old. Steven did everything that he had to do to impress the citizens of Bismarck-Mandan, and he didn't stop there. Now, ten years since from his initial idea, he has cemented himself in the Bis-Man business landscape with the same great flavor and has even expanded to add Jimmy V's to his list of entrepreneurial pursuits, all in the place he calls "home."

To me, he serves as an inspiration for not just young entrepreneurs, but all entrepreneurs. Whether you're young or old, it's never too early or late to follow through on a passion project to find success and enjoyment in what you do. To this day, he may not have all the details figured out, but neither do most other entrepreneurs. That's exactly why the great part of the journey isn't the destination; it's the road traveled.

Nardello's story serves as a reminder to me that no goal is out of reach if you pursue it with the right mentality. Nardello's story is a prime example of what can be achieved when ambition is nurtured by hard work and dedication, connections and networking, and a desire to make a mark on a community like this one.

Sincerely,

Bis-Man INC! Editor

MEET THE TEAM.

MIKE DRAGOSAVICH

GRANT AYERS

TORI HELLAND

BEN BUCHANAN

MEGAN BERGESON

TOMMY UHLIR JOHN STUBER

MIRANDA KNUDSON

JESSICA MULLEN NICK SCHOMMER

KELLEN FEENEY

GARY USSERY

JENNY JOHNSON

JOSIAH KOPP

PAUL HOEFER

AL ANDERSON

KIM COWLES

TY BETTS

GENEVA NODLAND

BRADY DRAKE

Redefining Rural North Dakota

[Architectural solutions that build community and careers]

Watford City High School and the adjoining Rough Rider Center: Collaborative innovation designed to attract and retain families in western North Dakota.

There is a vast difference between urban and rural communities. While urban centers have the population and budget to build, build, and build—in rural communities, architecture is a once-in-alifetime opportunity. Since 1989, JLG Architects has been leading dynamic change that is redefining rural architecture. JLG’s designers focus on building for better; using space not just for function but to connect neighbors within progressive rural healthcare, multi-use destinations, and STEM and simulated education for students. JLG aims for change that keeps North Dakota’s cities booming and young professionals happy to call it home. JLG’s team of international and regional expertise has been at the heart of countless rural overhauls—a team focused on reshaping education, healthcare, business, and community-centric solutions wherever they grow.

Over the past 34 years, JLG has blossomed from a team of just 2 to 200, all based on strong relationships, trust, hometown work ethic, and a deep-seated passion for inspiring design. “There is nothing more exciting than reimagining Main Street,” said JLG’s Eric Hoffer, an architect and Bismarck's regional manager. “It’s amazing how a well-orchestrated renovation to everyday places can transform an entire community’s way of life. The best part of our job is finding new ways to unlock hidden potential with a big impact that brings a community joy, pride, economic vitality, connection, enhanced access to healthcare and education, and overall well-being.”

BY TRACY NICHOLSON | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JLG ARCHITECTS

Elevated Education

JLG’s team believes in ambitious ways to make change and provide opportunities across the region. The 2014 oil boom brought awareness to western North Dakota, bringing more people, and exposing workforce shortages and educational facilities overdue for an upgrade.

To support the future of communities, JLG is passionate about designing spaces that help communities provide opportunities that support the local workforce, connecting rural communities with the opportunities of larger towns. This starts as early as elementary school and continues through middle school, high school, and into the university system. Spaces that support STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and CTE (Career and Technical Education) programs expose and prepare more students for opportunities in lucrative careers located in their own backyard.

Career-Ready

In addition to classrooms, integrated STEM and CTE programs require more specialized spaces that are flexible to changing needs, encourage hands-on learning, and help connect the dots for students between the core and elective subjects they are taking. This is true-to-life, simulated experiences in commercial kitchens, mechanical and auto shops, labs, greenhouses, manufacturing, and emerging technical advancements.

At Williston’s High School campus, JLG designed a CTE building that accommodates four trade shops, including Vo-Ag, building, automotive, and diesel mechanics. The campus also offers classrooms for a meat lab, tech lab, health/science classrooms, and a 900-square-foot greenhouse—all driven by community engagement and local industry partnerships. Since opening, the need has quickly grown and JLG has assisted the District in a pre-design effort to successfully apply for a $10M state grant.

“Today, everything is connected,” said JLG’s Katie Becker, AIA, NCARB, LEED Green Assoc. “It’s important that students see how the concepts they learn in one class relate to another. Architecture can support that thinking by placing collaborative spaces adjacent to each other and bringing CTE spaces traditionally delegated to the back of the building front and center—encouraging engagement and celebrating workforce learning. A class like construction is where we start to see the application of geometry, and in science, we see how it can support an agriculture curriculum. This is where students make the connection between what’s happening at school and what’s happening in their communities."

At Williston’s ASB Innovation Academy, JLG created a series of “pods” that encourage grades five through eight to independently learn at their own pace while teachers circulate around with assistance. They utilize digital learning tools and project-based instruction, moving away from a one-style-fits-all approach to student-centric learning that relates to real life.

Booming Business

At the ASB Innovation Academy in Williston, JLG designed a flexible and technology-rich learning environment where students have the freedom to advance to a new topic as soon as they show mastery of the first.

At Bismarck State College (BSC) Allied Health, JLG helped design state-ofthe-art CNA labs that look identical to clinic and hospital settings, complete with simulated patient experiences.

JLG places CTE classes that support one another within proximity and closer to traditional core classes, making it easier for classes to collaborate and build relationships that reflect the post-graduation world. This reimagined space is helping students make the connection between core classes, CTE classes, and postgraduation careers.

JLG works with several industries, including the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC). The firm recently renovated its headquarters and designed a new training center aligned with BSC’s lineworker program. Within an 18,000-square-foot indoor training arena, a simulator room, Cooperative training center, and classrooms, lineworkers and students can safely practice skills required for the construction and maintenance of overhead and underground electrical infrastructure—reinforcing their field’s future workforce.

As with every project of JLG’s, community values are at the core—hometown motivation for real solutions that keep talent local, industries thriving, and communities well-connected.

The benefit of school partnerships with local businesses is helping education and industry boom. “Through CTE, businesses communicate in-demand positions, shape curriculum, and even potentially provide the school with machinery, resources, and equipment to help students succeed,” explained Becker. “Students can learn the right skills on the right equipment— streamlining their college education or taking them directly from high school graduation to a lucrative

Learn

How Steven Nardello Brought East Coast Bites to Bismarck

By Grant Ayers | Photos by Geneva Nodland

recipe for success is not just about the perfect blend of ingredients but also about determination, creativity, and a dash of passion. Meet Steven Nardello, the visionary chef-entrepreneur who took the leap from watching Food Network shows to owning a celebrated New York-style pizzeria in Bismarck. But his journey didn't end there. Discover how he spiced things up with Jimmy V's, a contemporary dining haven that reflects his grandfather's legacy, all while navigating the challenges of a pandemic and coming out stronger on the other side.

Throughout high school, seeds were planted in Nardello’s head regarding entrepreneurship and owning a restaurant. He and his mother would watch the Food Network often, bonding over watching people cook, something that he loved to do as well. Additionally, Nardello’s father and both his grandfathers were business owners themselves, with his father formerly owning a restaurant as well.

“As high school was ending and college was approaching, I knew that I was a bit of a slump. If I pursued college, I'd have to take an additional two years of education, which I didn't want to add on top of the other four to six years of college, so that path just wasn't for me. I've always wanted to do my own thing. I've tried other jobs, including corporate positions, but I’ve always enjoyed taking my own path,” Nardello said.

The Nardello family originally hails from New Jersey, moving to Bismarck nearly 30 years ago. Whenever they returned

home, they always cherished the food. They loved it so much that they believed everyone should try it at least once in their lifetime. Steven always found the idea intriguing and decided to propose opening a New York-style pizza restaurant in Bismarck.

“I thought that it would be very successful, fun, and unique to the area, but I also knew that the restaurant industry had a 50/50 shot at success and involved a lot of risks, especially since I was 18 or 19 at the time. Although my parents were a little uncertain about the idea, they supported me throughout the process. I had no credit to my name, so my parents also put their house on the line for me to pursue this dream. They were willing to take a significant risk for me and this idea, and I know they were just hoping that their kid would follow through and put effort into making it work,” Nardello said.

Steven’s parents supported his idea, but they also wanted him to experience

the industry firsthand to justify any decisions. They made a call to Sal Bonfanti, a family friend and owner of Sal Vito Pizza in Voorhees, NJ, who has owned the renowned pizza shop for decades. Nardello traveled across the country to train for a week under Bonfanti with mentorship and guidance, with the goal of bringing his knowledge back to the food connoisseurs of Bismarck.

“They were very welcoming because we weren't going to be their competition since we lived across the country. I learned everything I could in about a week's span of time. I worked 12-hour days for free, and when my dad asked me how I liked it, I told him, ‘I’m going to love it. I just need some good shoes.’ I started getting things rolling from there,” Nardello said.

When asked why he wanted to bring that specific style of food to Bismarck, Nardello was adamant that the area was craving something different at the

time. “We had a lot of chains and not a lot of local, unique places at the time. At the same time, I didn't want to go to college. It just wasn't a path that I wanted to take since I wanted to start working right away and avoid wasting time. I had to learn the whole nine yards, and a lot of it was teaching myself. I had to figure out how to create a business plan, so I researched online, watched YouTube videos, leaned on my parents a bit for questions, and ran with it.”

They started making significant progress on the business shortly after, and on June 26, 2013, Nardello’s Pizza opened to the public. Confident that he had the quality ingredients and first-rate recipes, but not so sure about their capacity to handle a rush out of the gate, Nardello and his employees made the decision to not advertise at all upon opening. They planned to open on a Monday without posting on social media or telling a soul, to get the basics down, and tell everyone that their grand opening was the following Friday so that

Steven’s Favorites

1. A Classic Cheese Pizza

“There's just something about the cheese pizza that I love. I know it's Plain Jane but you can't go wrong. You're getting the essence of the dough, sauce, cheese, and the perfect little bit of Parmesan on top. It's delicious.”

2. Philly Steak Sandwich

3. Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich

they would be prepared and ready.

“I knew that we were going to make mistakes because we’re brand new, but we still needed to go in strong with our heads held high to have an ace in the hole. We had people lined up at the door at 11 a.m. that Monday. All I could think was ‘Holy shit.’ I didn't advertise at all, so it blew my mind. All we did was open our doors and put a logo up. Monday was successful and Tuesday’s rush was insane. From that point on, it was nonstop,” Nardello said.

When they first opened, Nardello’s mentality was that this would be a make-or-break thing with the BismarckMandan community. He believed that they would either do very well the first time and customers would recommend it to friends and family, or they were going to miss the target and result in no one coming back. Originally, he would be there from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. and open seven days a week, but they made the decision to close on Sundays soon

after when it became too much for the team. Shortly after, some “new in town” news stories came out from local news outlets, promoting the new business, and they had a grand opening with the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC.

“Looking back, if you were to throw me in that situation today, I would have crushed it, but I didn’t know all the ins and outs on the second day. I had an entire staff that I trained, and it was all new to them as well, so we all needed some rest. It was stressful, but it paid off in the long run. We hit the ground running entirely on word of mouth. People kept coming in, loving it, and telling more people. A lot of our first customers were East Coast people and I still see them frequently to this day as regulars,” Nardello said.

After years of growth and success with Nardello’s Pizza, Steven made the leap to launch a second restaurant in the community named Jimmy V’s; a “feelgood, sit-down East Coast restaurant” in downtown Bismarck. Jimmy V’s is somewhat similar to Nardello’s Pizza while offering a unique menu and dining experience.

In a sense, Nardello's is more of a family restaurant, while Jimmy V's offers a more contemporary dining and drinks experience. Nardello said that he felt he had more creative freedom with the menu at Jimmy V’s, along with a full-service bar, making it a different experience from Nardello’s Pizza.

While Nardello’s Pizza was a success from the start, Jimmy V’s had a slower climb, likely due to the pandemic. Steven explained that he had an “itch to start something new and do something fun” with some close friends of his, both of whom had past experience in the bar

industry, and had that itch as well. He wanted to bring them in and give them the same experience of owning and being a part of something, just as he had with Nardello’s Pizza.

“I opened [Jimmy V’s] during COVID, like an idiot, in 2020. We did some more advertising than last time, but since we opened in the middle of a pandemic, nobody was going out and hanging out at a restaurant or bar. They were grabbing takeout and eating it at home. We went through some changes and adapted to the times to get things to where they’re at today,” Nardello said.

Nardello knew that failure wouldn’t be an option when the pandemic impacted businesses. He was adamant that there wasn’t the slightest chance that he was going to jeopardize all of his employees’ livelihoods, as well as his career, eight years in at the time. They did whatever they had to do to stay alive, and adapted however was needed to stay open,

including alternative delivery methods and curbside pickup.

“When third-party food delivery systems shut down, two of my friends were out of a job, so I hired them so we could do our own deliveries. We did everything that we could to ensure that we remained busy, successful, and profitable during that time because, at any point, it could have been a loss of business. In my mind, I have these great people who rely on me now. I'm their source of income that's keeping them going. Sure, they can go find another job, but I need to make sure that they’re okay and that I’m doing what I can to make sure that everyone, as well as the business, is taken care of. If someone has a spouse and two children, they’re going to do whatever they have to do to make sure they’re taken care of. These employees, and these businesses, are like my kids,” Nardello said.

Steven’s Favorites

1. Italian Reuben Sandwich

2. French Fries

“Our French fry menu options are to die for. We have an entire section dedicated to loaded French fries. We use this unique style of fry that not many other people do, if any, that I know of. Imagine a steak fry, but cut thin, not like a potato chip. They hold up well when fried, making them perfect for loaded fries and other dishes. We offer mouthwatering options like Buffalo Chicken, Reuben, and Philly Cheesesteak fries—all of which are super delicious.”

3. Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich

the key, but they adopted an all-ages policy until 8 p.m., with 21+ hours from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. shortly after opening. Now, they have more options for fun, all-ages events for the whole family.

“We realized that we were shooting ourselves in the foot by turning away customers just because they wanted to bring their kids to try it out. I thought, 'What are we doing to ourselves? If customers want us to be a restaurant where they can bring their kids, hang out, and have fun, we should do that.'

Bismarck-Mandan is a very tight-knit community that likes to do things with their families. People in this community jump at the opportunity to do or try something new. We’re constantly adapting and pivoting, which is the nature of this business,” Nardello said.

Did You Know?

“Jimmy V’s is named after my grandfather, who hasn’t been with us since 2003. He was always someone who loved to talk over a Manhattan, and that’s the environment that I want people to experience here. We wanted to make an environment where everyone's welcome to come in, hang out, have a good time, and feel like they're part of something bigger than what they expected when they first walked in the door."

- Steven Nardello

“I never expected 99% of the things that were thrown at me when we started. There were a lot of curveballs and things you don't realize are going to happen, but I like getting thrown to the wolves. I thrive on that so throw me in and let me figure it out. I knew how much work it was going to be because everyone reminded me, ‘You know, you're giving up everything for this, right?’ and I'm like, ‘I understand that.’ I'll do what I have to do and I'm going to enjoy doing it. Let's see what we can do to solve it and push forward from there. It makes the monotony of a day-to-day basis much more exciting and fun. The drive was almost like an adrenaline rush 24/7 for me, and I loved every second of it.”

- Steven Nardello

Q: After your time learning the ropes in New Jersey, what surprised you in the pizza industry or running a business in general?

A: The biggest takeaway is how much really goes into a restaurant or business. There's a lot more that goes into it than I anticipated and didn't quite fully comprehend at the time. People walk into a restaurant and order, but there’s so much more that goes into it than meets the eye. The gentleman who showed me the ropes of everything showed me the “hidden” parts of the restaurant industry that aren’t seen at first glance. We were there early in the morning to pick up fresh rolls and produce and had to have everything prepped before lunchtime, which was nonstop. You're always doing something and always on your toes, which is what I was looking forward to because I knew that this would be perfect for me.

Q: What do you believe is the main obstacle that both Nardello's Pizza and Jimmy V's face right now?

A: Supply chain problems are a big issue, but we adapt. For instance, we're short on five ingredients this week because we can’t get them, but we come up with alternative solutions and different ideas. Goods got pricier, so we adjusted operations to save costs for us and our customers. In tough times, with unemployment

and limited finances, as a business owner, especially in hospitality, it's so important to understand the economy. We changed because I knew overcharging wouldn't succeed, and failing wasn't a possibility without adaptation. Balancing quality and affordability was definitely the biggest challenge since the beginning.

Recently, it's been tougher due to staffing problems. I had better luck hiring during COVID than post-COVID, which surprises me. It’s hard to find anyone now, no matter how we try and get people in. I wish that I could pay everyone starting at $30/hour, but razorthin margins in this industry make it impossible. We’re focused on providing a great, cost-efficient product that’s harder to bring to the table in today's expensive world.

When we lost some kids to college in places like Fargo, Minnesota, and Arizona, which was expected, we had to have a conversation about how to move forward. It's just the nature of the beast and there's a light at the end of the tunnel. It'll get better, but we have to keep pushing through. We've been through worse crap and that's just the mentality you have to have. If you sit around and focus on the negatives, then that’s how life is really going to be.

Q: How often are you replacing or trying out new menu items?

A: At Nardello's, we stick to what we know, keeping it fresh by experimenting with occasional specials like Chicago Italian beef, a true Chicago specialty. We maintain our core menu, valued by customers, as we’re careful not to risk what already works well.

Jimmy V's is a bit more challenging, but my goal is a rotating menu. We'll keep our staple menu consistent, introducing new items or rotating dishes around every six months. For example, now I'm working on burgers and other items. After six months, we'll offer some different choices for customers to try. If the response is positive, we'll keep them.

Staff comfort is my priority, however, as I don’t want to push them wildly past their comfort level. I want them to enjoy their work, and I want us to work well together so we can keep having these conversations and collaborate on new ideas. The menu concepts are not mine; they come from the team. They bring me all these ideas, and I respond with, 'Okay, I'll build it. I'll figure it out, and then we'll run with it.' So, in a way, they are building the menu for me. I want them to take pride in their work, find enjoyment in what they do, and feel a sense of ownership, as this place is theirs just as much as it is mine.

Q: How do you approach new creations?

A: There's not as much fear as there was, say, 10 years ago, when it comes to trying something new or different. I trust my instincts with recipes. If I love it, I share it, hoping others will enjoy it too. Before adding to the menu, I get honest feedback. If it's positive, we'll go for it. I want to serve what I believe is good. It's about sharing something that I genuinely like and, chances are, a few others will feel the same way. This community itself has been very, very, very good when it comes to creating and trying new things, so it makes it a lot easier for us.

I always make the joke that this area is like the Gordon Ramsay of people. It's either a huge hit or a huge miss, and they're gonna tell you all about it, either way. That's fine, though, because if you can't take criticism, learn from it, and strive to improve, you'll end up kicking yourself. Even during challenging times like COVID, the community has come together to support each other. I can't speak for other states, but I feel like North Dakota really embraces and supports local businesses wholeheartedly. It's incredible, and it makes a tremendous difference.

Q: What brings you the most satisfaction or fulfillment as the owner of both Nardello's and Jimmy V's, and being a restaurant owner for 10 years now?

A: My biggest focus now is supporting the people I work with and care about. I'm grateful for the ability to contribute to the community in so many different ways. In my career and businesses, I take pride in helping others in numerous ways. It could be as simple as being there to listen or offering valuable advice. Witnessing past employees thrive and knowing I played a role in their journey is incredibly rewarding and means more to me than any material wealth. Being in this position, actively engaging with different people, and contributing to the community has become a passion for me. It's a unique experience that I would have never imagined a decade ago. It's truly amazing how life can surprise us!

Q: Do you think that 10 years from now, you might have a different answer?

A: Certainly. In another 10 years, I hope to have even more experience, knowledge, and notoriety in this field with both restaurants, along

Steven’s Tips for Success

#1: The only thing holding you back is yourself

“If you have an idea, do whatever you have to do to see it become an established entity, or whatever it may be. You can't let anyone tell you 'No' or that you can't do something because they’ll hold you back and it will eat at you. You have to pursue it, roll with the punches, and see where it goes. The biggest thing for me is ‘at least you tried.’ If it succeeds, awesome. If you fall on your butt, it is what it is. You tried, and that's much more than many people do.”

#2: Don’t be scared to try something different

“The other thing is not being afraid. You know, just be yourself, experiment, and show the world your new, crazy, awesome ideas. Try something unique and different—go for it. Just be yourself and be unique. Trying something new would be my other piece of advice. In today's world, if you want to stand out, you have to show people what you've got. It might seem overwhelming with so much going on, but going the extra mile will surely make a difference.”

#3: Ask questions

“Remember, no question is dumb. Seek advice from experts in the field, or anyone who might have insights. Asking questions leads to success and it's never a bad thing. Don't feel embarrassed about asking because it can only help you. If you don’t, you're only hindering your progress. There are people out there with the knowledge and willingness to assist you. Asking for help and clarification is crucial. I personally had to overcome my stubbornness and ask for assistance, and it ultimately benefited me.”

with any future projects. It seems that over time, my knowledge and experience have been growing. The core mentality is still intact, though I think that I can contribute more than before. Comparing myself to a decade ago, significant changes have occurred— personal growth and a constantly changing mindset. Not having kids at the moment is another factor that might influence things further. Honestly, my response would likely be similar, but with many positive additions. However, who knows what the future holds?

A decade is a substantial timeframe, and when I look back in ten years, I'm amazed at the progress and changes that have occurred. Life's progression is astonishing. As one goes through different stages, the mentality evolves, and figures things out along the way. It's a strange and fascinating journey. I have customers who visited me eight to nine

years ago, and now, some of their kids are working for me. It's a remarkable and somewhat surreal experience.

Q: What’s something that you remind yourself of often?

A: ‘Never forget your roots.’ Our family friends helped me learn everything; I wouldn't be here today without them and that's huge for me. I’m extremely grateful for my wife as well. We attended the same school, but we grew closer while working together at Nardello’s Pizza every day. That's how things naturally unfolded. Although she hasn't worked with me for quite some time, we've been together ever since. My family, friends, and wife have been crucial in supporting me. Without their support, I wouldn't be where I am

today. My parents, my brother-in-law, sister, and wife are all involved in the business in some shape or form. They are incredibly supportive, patient, and understanding. When I get upset or things become stressful, they talk to me and keep me level-headed. Not every day is perfect, but they provide a strong support system. In short, the last 10 years wouldn't have been possible without the people who've been there for me, and I’m so thankful for that. My business partners and I have been friends for a very long time. Having them as my support structure keeps me grounded and on the right path. We spend a lot of time together, joking around and having fun, and I truly value that. It's essential to have people like them in your corner to keep you balanced and focused. I owe a lot of my success to the wonderful people I surround myself with.

Under Big Blue Couch Coaching, Anderson and Perman were continuously asked by their clients if they would do training at corporate events. When they tried to sell that service under the former brand, they realized that their Big Blue Couch Coaching brand was standing in their way.

“It didn’t scream 'leadership' to us and was very femaleidentified. We weren't afraid to ask the hard questions. We were willing to listen and learn from clients to get a good understanding of what image we were putting out there. We took some time and decided to rebrand our name to RAYMA Team™, LLC. Now, we’ve finished the branding and have been getting it out to our corporate clients and people that really care about leadership,” Anderson said.

“The name itself, RAYMA, couples together our names, Raychel and Mandy. In a spiritual context, Rhema means 'any spoken word.' We care about writing our own content and speaking from our own experiences and lessons learned, so we thought that it would be cool to blend the two meanings together."

With the new brand up and running, RAYMA Team™, LLC launched their inaugural coach certification program this last March.

Meet Mandy B. Anderson, Co-Founder of RAYMA Team™, LLC

• Certified L.E.A.N. Health Coach from Dr. Sears Wellness Institute (2012)

• Certified Life Coach from Light University (2014)

• Certified Executive Coach from IAP Career College (2022)

• TEDx Speaker (2021)

• Top 25 Women in Business for 2020 by Prairie Business Magazine

• Co-Host of the Fearless Feminine Leadership Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

• Best-Selling, Award-Winning Author

“With over a decade of experience in the coaching industry, I specialize in helping leaders become Rockstar Leaders of strong teams and businesses. Meaning, I help you navigate hard choices and team issues, speak up, get noticed, unleash your creativity, and, ultimately, accomplish your goals.

When I'm not working you can find me reading a good book, running or biking while rocking out to Taylor Swift, or going on outside adventures with my husband, Nate, and our furbaby, Indigo—a petite Goldendoodle with a big personality. I love to sip my coffee every morning and watch the sunrise, while most likely searching for the next perfect pair of stilettos.

I was born with a life-threatening disease called Cystic Fibrosis, and have spent my life turning disappointments into meaningful experiences and overcoming the obstacles life throws at me. Because of this, I’m passionate about helping leaders and entrepreneurs become more confident, with a fierce belief in themselves and the future they want to create.”

- Mandy B. Anderson

At RAYMA Team™, we're on a mission to revolutionize the world of leadership development by bringing a feminine perspective to an industry that has been mostly curated by men—because all perspectives matter when it comes to leadership development."

- RAYMA Team™, LLC

Meet Raychel Perman, Co-Founder of RAYMA Team™, LLC

• Certified Life Coach from Light University (2012)

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University (2012)

• Co-Host of the Fearless Feminine Leadership Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

• Licensed Esthetician (2002-current)

• Board Certified Biblical Counselor (2012-2014)

• Amazon Best-Selling Author

“I have worked in the counseling and coaching space for over 10 years and I specialize in helping people become confident leaders of healthy teams and businesses. I want to help you make positive change and leave a legacy—no matter your title! Meaning, we can work on anything from communication and conflict resolution skills to managing stress and overwhelm and creating boundaries. When I’m not working you can find me playing mom taxi to our three busy kids, reading a good novel, digging in my flower beds, watching Netflix with hubby, or playing with my two fur babies. We are a blended family. So, sometimes our house is full and sometimes it’s just me, hubs, and the dogs when the kids spend time with their Dad.

I’m an INFP, Enneagram 4w5, LGBTQIA2S+ ally, and incredibly proud of my Indigenous roots. I'm an advocate and involved in my community and the causes I care about. I love coffee, gemstone jewelry, Britain's royal families and history, and a big fan of rocking the boat. Especially when it comes to empowering people to become confident world-changing leaders.”

- Raychel Perman

Tips from Raychel Perman

Don’t take it personally.

From a small business perspective, when you're willing to ask both your clients and yourself the hard questions, you have to have a thick skin. There's nothing sacred when going through a rebrand. Everything should be looked at with a fine tooth comb and seen from your client's perspective because if you want to stay in business, you’re going to have to make sales. It’s important not to take anything personally.

When a rebrand goes live, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the rebrand is over.

It took so much longer than we expected, and I don't think it was just because of the pandemic. There’s a lot of internal, behind-the-scenes work leading up to a rebrand. Then, there’s another rebrand when it goes public, and you almost need a mini-rebrand a year later, just to keep reexamining and fine-tuning your operation. There are always going to be better processes in any business, so it’s important to always be open to pivoting with new concepts.

The duo currently holds up to 10 people per class, as they prefer to keep the class size small to provide more customized training. The first half of the year-long program focuses on those enrolled learning and living out the leadership curriculum for themselves before they learn how to teach it to others. There, they will observe how to work in a group coaching atmosphere before diving into leading themselves.

“That hardly ever happens in our industry. Much of the coaching industry is filled with 12-week courses to get a certification, but none of it truly prepares you to handle working with clients or growing a business. By the time they’re certified, they’ll already have significant experience with coaching and leading others in larger organizations. They’ll be able to use this experience with their team and in other parts of their life,” Anderson said.

The second half of the course focuses on the hands-on experience where Perman and Anderson assist them in developing their story, keynotes, and the opportunity to practice both one-on-one and group coaching sessions. We teach them to shift on a dime and adapt quickly, especially with technology.

“Mandy and I do our entire program virtually via Zoom. We have people enrolled in the course from Bismarck, but part of it is teaching our clients that using technology is a great way to stay on top of your time and continue evolving forward. These people are building their own internal leadership trainers in their own corporations,” Perman said.

“Once they get certified, they don't have to become a coach. They can take these leadership skills anywhere. We’ve noticed that the more a coach or a leader actively implements what they learned into their lives, it eventually becomes a part of them. The more they actively train and practice, the better they can handle the ups and downs in both of those industries.”

Looking ahead, Anderson and Perman have the goal of training and influencing 10,000 leaders within the next 5 years. While it is a daunting number (and task), the duo found an attainable method of reaching their goal number of people impacted.

“We realized that we needed to train other people so they could go out and train others. Mandy and I have used that one-to-many model to do business successfully in the past. When there are only two people in a small business, the capacity will be whatever we can handle and the company will only grow as much as we can, so we're really trying to train our own workforce,” Perman said.

In May of this year they expanded to a new physical office and hope to add more coaches to their team in the next 12 months. From the beginning, however, Anderson and Perman have had the long-term goal to be on a level of success similar to brands such as John C. Maxwell and Dale Carnegie within the next 10 to 15 years.

“We focus on helping staff with handling life, whether it be mental or emotional health, stress management, or any

Mandy B. Anderson teaching a leadership training from their RAYMA Foundations™ Leadership Curriculum.

Stay Tuned!

Check out the website for upcoming fall leadership program dates or reach out to bring one, or all, of the programs to your organization!

other workplace stressor. We want to eventually be able to offer training credits for all kinds of things like Dale Carnegie does, so that any employee that needs continuing education can use our program and get credits," Anderson said.

Perman and Anderson have set up various price points and methods to consume the program’s content. Whether it’s through hiring them for Corporate Mentor Groups (via Zoom or in-person), designated one-on-one coaching, or doing it at a pace that’s comfortable for the leader-in-training.

What are Corporate Mentor Groups?

Corporate Mentor Groups are monthly or seven-week groups focused on an individual module, rather than all five modules at hand. Furthermore, they receive a copy of the book and podcast access for supplemental learning.

RAYMA Foundations™ Leadership Curriculum by RAYMA Team™, LLC.

"We just launched our first coach certification class in March, which will be graduating and certified next spring. The next coaching certification class opens Spring 2024."

- Raychel Perman

The Origins of RAYMA Team™, LLC

“We originally decided to create our leadership curriculum because of a personal experience in 2018, when I was in a six-month leadership program for women in Bismarck. The assigned books were out of touch and few people there could truly identify with them. I told Raychel that there’s an opportunity to fill a need in leadership development training for women. We wanted to create our own curriculum because we didn’t see others getting the depth of leadership training that we’ve hoped for in the past.”

- Mandy B. Anderson

"We invite you to take our free quiz to get the most up-to-date picture of what you're struggling with right now as a leader, what you're doing well, and where you might need some accountability to lead better."

raymateam.com/leaderquiz

- RAYMA Team™, LLC

“Our coach certification program is perfect for anybody that has ever dreamed of becoming a coach and wants to have a solid set of curriculum. We figure out what the best possible way is for people to learn and stay sharpened, which won’t always be attending training seminars a handful of times throughout the year to stay certified like other companies,” Perman said.

“We noticed, especially with millennial women and men, that they weren't training in the fastest or most economical way possible. We want to make sure that each client is getting the most effective training for their needs.”

Tailoring a leadership development experience to the client at hand is one of the most important ways for Perman and Anderson to ensure that their information and experience are being shared secondhand effectively to pass down to others. As they hope for information to be passed on after receiving the certification, the duo provides continuous education and monthly for continuing personal growth and mentorship.

“You can stay with us for as long as you want to, even though it’s not necessarily required. We provide a supplemental way to not only stay connected to your own coaches, but a way to ask questions if needed. Technology has advanced enough for us to be able to work from home, but it’s also increased loneliness as we do things on our own and be our own leaders. Having access to your coaches after after your program is finished can make a world of difference,” Perman said.

Sample Coaching Certificate for the RAYMA Foundations™ Coaching Certification Program.

A Sample of RAYMA Team™ Media’s Book Selection

Perman and Anderson made the bold decision to launch their own media company, RAYMA Team™ Media. Selfpublishing keeps their publishing process very internal and has given them significant experience to assist others interested in sharing their story. Now having navigated the self-publishing space and selling their personal books on Amazon, our certified coaches will have an easier path to take should they want to write and publish books, too.

Dear Female Leader: 30 Days of Encouragement for Female Leaders (and the Women Who Think They Aren't)

By Mandy B. Anderson and Raychel Perman

“Whether you proudly step into a leadership role, or you struggle to see yourself as a leader without an official title, this book is the encouragement you didn't know you needed. To put it simply: Dear Female Leader is a timely book for women. Inside this book are 30 letters written for women by Certified Life Coaches and Best-Selling Authors, Mandy B. Anderson and Raychel Perman. Each letter includes a journal page and is designed to help you rise up as the leader you can be and already are. When a woman defines leadership for herself, and overcomes the obstacles keeping her stuck, she can become unstoppable.”

- RAYMA Team™ Media Description

Mandy B. Anderson and Raychel Perman at a team training at the IDEA Center in Bismarck.

“Being a women-owned business sets us apart from other leadership development programs on the market currently, as we offer a very different perspective of leadership training.”

- Mandy B. Anderson

Dangerous Hope: Planting Something Meaningful in the Soil of Disappointment

By Mandy B. Anderson

“Our first best-selling book since we launched RAYMA Team™ Media, 'Dangerous Hope,' is my story of overcoming cystic fibrosis and learning how to plant something meaningful in the soil of disappointment. There are a lot of leadership principles in there that we’ve drawn into our leadership curriculum.”

- Mandy B. Anderson

Unbroken: Embracing the Cracks that are Making You Whole

By Raychel Perman

“We both wrote books that were more Bible studies when we were Big Blue Couch Coaching and did some spiritual faith coaching. We decided to release the second edition with a surprise, new ending, which has since become an Amazon bestseller.”

Raychel Perman

-

Raychel Perman teaching from the MOTIVATED Leadership Module of the RAYMA Foundations™ Leadership Curriculum.

“It's really important to Mandy and I that the content we teach stands the test of time. It’s important that we learned it and passed it on to our certified coaches, and they’ve passed it on to others just as they were taught.”

- Raychel Perman

She Who Overcomes: Rising Out of the Ashes of Your Circumstances

By Mandy B. Anderson

“Tragedy sweeps through like wildfire. When the dust settles, it's hard to focus on anything but the pain. Believing that one can rise up from the ashes is nearly impossible. But what if this is the best time to stand up? What if this is the best time to fight back? And the best time to believe that there will be goodness on the other side of tragedy? ‘She Who Overcomes’ is for any woman who wants to live the authentic life of an overcomer. Using Biblical truths from the book of Revelation, and personal stories of overcoming painful circumstances, ‘She Who Overcomes’ equips those who want to stand firm when others crumble, persist and find purpose in their lives, and embrace the hope that only God provides. This second edition includes a foreword written by Raychel Perman, CEO of RAYMA Team™, LLC.”

“Currently,

happening

more

- Raychel Perman

- RAYMA Team™ Media Description

Mandy B. Anderson and Raychel Perman, Co-Creators of the RAYMA Foundations™ Leadership Curriculum.

Step into the fascinating world of Pavewise, an upand-coming asphalt software startup that's on the path to success! In this monthly feature, we'll be right there alongside Pavewise, cheering them on as they grow and face various challenges. From their victories to the obstacles they encounter, we'll witness it all. Get ready to be inspired by their journey as they strive to make a difference in the asphalt industry. Join us as we explore their exciting story and how they navigate their way to the top!

Did you know that the distinct smell of fresh asphalt can be strangely appealing to some people? Just like the whiff of fresh-cut grass or the smell of bacon. That's right, the scent of freshly laid asphalt has a fanbase of its own! Known as "petrichor," the aroma comes from the release of certain compounds, such as bitumen, during the paving process. While the smell may not be everyone's cup of tea, some individuals find it oddly satisfying and invigorating. It's even been said that people associate the smell with a sense of adventure and the promise of new roads ahead. Bryce is one of these unique individuals. So the next time you catch a whiff of that unique asphalt aroma, take a moment to appreciate the sensory experience and the diverse ways that people find enjoyment in unexpected places!

Pavewise’s web-based software maximizes productivity and improves project quality resulting in increased incentives and profits for paving contractors. Variables such as weather, project specifications, and equipment operations impact every paving project. By efficiently managing project variables and integrating paving solutions, Pavewise develops a strategy for success for every paving project. In 2022, Pavewise helped contractors generate over $1.5 million dollars in quality incentives on asphalt paving projects, resulting in over $362,000 in revenue.

We are the first intelligent construction software built for improving asphalt paving efficiencies and profits.

Bryce Wuori CEO/cofounder Brittany Wuori

WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

We are excited to introduce our Pavewise team as we have made a few key hires since our last update: Please meet Jase Kraft our CTO, Michael Howey our Product Manager, and Aaron Motacek our Full Stack Engineer. We are so grateful to have them on our team!

HELP WANTED/ASKS

• Always looking for connections with state DOTs and Infrastructure Agencies.

• Looking to connect with any paving contractors or asphalt professionals.

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS

• We are so close to closing our current seed round. We're just working on making the right decisions on whom to partner with now and for future rounds with what will benefit Pavewise the most.

• Bryce was in Fargo working with our advertisement team at Tellwell doing videos on the job sites with Pavewise.

• We were featured in the Fargo INC! as gener8tor’s first ND accelerator cohort. issuu.com/fmspotlight/docs/fi_july23_1/48

• Bryce and Pavewise were featured in the NDLTAP newsletter.

• Pavewise was featured in the Asphalt Pro Magazine on July 28th, 2023.

• We were accepted for the ND Lyft Fund.

RECENT LOWLIGHTS

• We transferred our domains from a .pro to a .com, and during this transformation, we experienced a few hiccups.

• Trying to decide who to partner with to finish closing out our current seed round.

• Trying to onboard customers in the middle of construction season.

HIRING

• We will be looking to hire another software engineer for our team in the near future. If you have referrals, please send them to Brittany:

brittany.wuori@pavewisepro.com

Jase Kraft CTO

Michael Howey Product Manager

Aaron Motacek Full Stack Engineer

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

KPIS/CORE METRICS

• We have locked down 53 companies that will run the Pavewise software in the 2023 season. Our new target is 250 users by 2Q 2024.

• We have shifted from tracking the number of seats per company to just tracking the number of users in the software.

• We currently have onboarded 19 users since the release of the software on July 1st.

• Bryce was down in Chicago for Builtworlds 2023 Construction Tech Conference. He was asked to return in September for the 2023 Americas Summit and be one of the companies chosen to pitch during the demo day.

• Bryce just got back from Pennsylvania presenting at the PAPA annual meeting and working on a turnpike paving project with New Enterprise, one of the largest paving contractors.

• Invited by the president of ISIC to present on paving technologies in Orlando, FL this fall.

• We currently have a list of 132 active callbacks that will be contacted as we start implementing new users into the software.

KUDOS

pavewisepro.com

bryce.wuori@pavewisepro.com

/company/pavewise app.pavewisepro.com

• Thank you to Gary from Bis-Man INC! for making the drive all the way from Fargo to capture our picture for the August feature. We also want to thank Grant for putting together the piece. The cover and story have turned out absolutely fantastic, and we couldn't be happier with the result!

• Thank you to all of our initial customers that have been onboarded into the Pavewise software and provided feedback.

• Thank you to the Asphalt Pro Magazine for the new article on Pavewise!

• Thank you to the M25 Team for the hospitality while in Chicago.

• Thank you to anyone who has continued to support Pavewise through texts, emails, and phone calls. These mean a lot to the team!

Tracy's Sanctuary House

Providing Compassionate Support to Families in Need

Nonprofit organizations are oftentimes overlooked in the community due to a lack of promotional funds and advertising, amongst other reasons. To help spread awareness of these efforts being made, we feature a local nonprofit in each issue that we believe deserves a spotlight shined on the great work that they’ve done and continue to do within the community.

I spoke with Kelsey Zottnick, Executive Director of Tracy’s Sanctuary House, in which she discussed this extraordinary initiative, its evolution, and the many services that Tracy’s Sanctuary House offers to the Bismarck-Mandan community.

A Beacon of Hope

Tracy's Sanctuary House emerged from a personal tragedy that struck Tracy and her family. On August 9, 2004, over 200 miles from home, Tracy, along with her husband, her eleven-year-old daughter, and another passenger were returning from a trip when their vehicle rolled. Tracy, who was not wearing a seatbelt, did not survive.

“While Tracy was fighting for her life far from home in an area hospital near the accident, Tracy’s husband and young daughter paced the cold hospital halls and waiting room. Distraught and overcome with waves of emotion, they desperately needed a private place to go and find sanctuary through their anguish. They needed a place to await the arrival of Tracy’s

college-bound daughter. And later, after Tracy’s passing, they needed a place to make phone calls to family, to make necessary immediate arrangements, and to openly grieve. So far from home, they needed a sanctuary…there was no such place,” Zottnick said.

The turmoil highlighted the pressing need for a private and compassionate haven for families in similar predicaments. Tracy's family, with unwavering determination, set out to create that sanctuary—a place where loved ones could find respite, support, and solace during the most trying times.

“In 2005, Tracy's Sanctuary House opened as a temporary home to people who find themselves in similar situations as Tracy’s husband and daughter faced during their anguishing hours in the hospital halls alone and far from home,” Zottnick said.

By Grant Ayers | by Josiah Kopp

A Journey of Compassion

Since its inception, Tracy's Sanctuary House has undergone a transformative journey. In 2016, the organization witnessed an influx of families due to the oil boom in Western North Dakota. With heightened demand, Tracy's expanded its services to accommodate families for stays ranging from 24 hours to over six weeks.

“A lot more serious injuries and accidents happened that were transferred to our local hospitals. We also saw an influx of out-ofstate families using our facility. Also, we had to tighten up our policies and procedures so we continue to review our safety guidelines and admittance to entry at Tracy's Sanctuary House,” Zottnick said.

Their commitment to helping anyone seeking medical care from out of town, whether for appointments or longer-term treatments, became a cornerstone of their mission. Tracy's Sanctuary House has also forged partnerships with local hospitals, refining their safety protocols and admission processes to better serve the community.

“We've expanded our reach to the surrounding communities and have made large strides with the hospital and the referral process. We help anyone seeking a medical professional from out of town, whether it’s for appointments, long stays, or even families visiting loved ones in retirement and nursing home facilities. We do require a key deposit now at check-in but work with families on a fee-based scale that fits their needs,” Zottnick said.

Unveiling the Impact

The statistics associated with Tracy's Sanctuary House speak volumes about its dedication and reach. Since opening its doors, the organization has provided temporary housing for over 4,000 families, translating into an estimated 10,000 individuals who found comfort within its walls. The average stay duration since 2022 has been two weeks, reflecting the vital support extended to families during their most challenging moments. Operating the sanctuary incurs an annual cost of $115,000, which covers expenses such as utilities, maintenance, insurance, and staffing.

Behind the Scenes

At the helm of Tracy's Sanctuary House is Kelsey Zottnick, the Executive Director who wears multiple hats, including managing day-to-day operations, grant writing, organizing fundraisers, and even tending to housekeeping duties. Together with a dedicated group of volunteers, Tracy's thrives as a tight-knit, family-run endeavor.

“The house takes a lot of work, as we don’t receive any government funding and aren’t sponsored by any local hospitals. We're a small family that's made up of seven board members, four of which are family members who launched Tracy's, along with three local community members. We have seven beds and five rooms in the house to look after,” Zottnick said.

The house itself accommodates up to five families at a time, offering a range of amenities such as fully furnished rooms, two kitchens, a serene chapel, and various common areas where families can come together with one another during challenging times.

What sets you apart from other organizations in your community, or other organizations with similar missions?

There is no other house like ours in the surrounding community. We offer a place to stay for kids and adults. Ronald McDonalds house is only for parents of children but we offer a place to stay for anyone who has a loved one in the hospital no matter age or family affiliation.

Tracy’s Sanctuary House offers multiple common areas to gather and spend time with one another, especially during a time of need.

Setting a Unique Standard

Tracy's Sanctuary House stands apart from other organizations with its distinctive focus on accommodating individuals of all ages. While Ronald McDonald House serves as a haven for parents with hospitalized children, Tracy's offers support to anyone with a loved one in the hospital, regardless of age or family affiliation. This inclusivity sets them apart in the community, ensuring that no one feels alone during their challenging journey.

Services that Uplift

Tracy’s Sanctuary House will provide everything for an emergency night stay. Dubbed a "medical Airbnb," the organization provides comprehensive services to ease the burden on families in need. The house is fully stocked with food and amenities, eliminating worries about essential supplies. Families can rely on Tracy's for stays ranging from emergency overnight visits to prolonged periods extending over six weeks. With facilities that include a full-service

washer, cable TV, and Wi-Fi, Tracy's ensures that families can focus on supporting their loved ones while finding comfort within their temporary home.

The Power of Donations

Donations to Tracy's Sanctuary House play a pivotal role in sustaining their mission. Contributions directly contribute to the organization's operations, which encompass utilities, groundskeeping, maintenance, insurance, mortgage payments, staffing, and other essential expenses. While families staying at Tracy's are encouraged to donate within their means, no one is turned away due to an inability to contribute.

Tracy’s Sanctuary House provides seven beds for multiple families to make use of when they’ve fallen on hard times.

We needed a place like Tracy's in a time of need. Something that was private and provided compassion to our situation, and that was also not an expensive hotel.”

Kelsey Zottnick, Executive Director of Tracy’s Sanctuary House

Support Beyond Monetary Contributions

Tracy's Sanctuary House welcomes support in various forms beyond financial donations. Individuals can volunteer their time, organize drives to meet the house's specific needs, and spread awareness about the organization's services within churches, hospitals, and the surrounding community.

Empowering Readers to Make a Difference

Readers seeking to support Tracy's Sanctuary House can engage in numerous ways. Sponsoring a family for a night, a week, or even a month can make a profound impact. Alternatively, they can choose to sponsor specific expenses such as utility bills, yard care, or mortgage payments.

Volunteering at Tracy's is an excellent opportunity to get involved in person and show support. Looking ahead to next January, stay tuned for their annual Winter White Party for a Purpose fundraiser!

A Lasting Legacy

Tracy's Sanctuary House represents an enduring tribute to the memory of Tracy and her spirit of love and giving. The organization remains committed to spreading awareness about its services, engaging with clubs, churches, and community groups to create a network of support.

“We are always looking for ways to spread the word about Tracy's Sanctuary House. We speak at clubs, churches, and groups that will have us. The mission was started in memory of my mother, Tracy, and I plan to continue her love and giving through Tracy's Sanctuary House as long as we can and the community continues to support us,” Zottnick said.

Tracy’s Sanctuary House provides five bedrooms for those in need.

Tracy’s Sanctuary House provides not one, but two kitchens for families in need to use.

Tracy's Sanctuary House shines as a testament to the profound impact a small, compassionate organization can have on a community. From its humble beginnings to its far-reaching services today, this nonprofit has become a sanctuary for families facing unimaginable challenges. Through donations, volunteer efforts, and spreading the word, individuals can empower Tracy's Sanctuary House to bring solace and support to countless families in the Bismarck-Mandan community for years to come.

Support Tracy's Sanctuary House

tracyssanctuary.com

701.258.5889

tracyssanctuary@gmail.com

/TracysSanctuaryHouse

@TracysSanctuaryHouse

908 North 8th Street

Bismarck, ND 58501

By Julie Hinker, VBOC of The Dakotas Director Photo Courtesy of VBOC of the Dakotas

About the VBOC

The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) program is designed to provide entrepreneurial development services such as business training, counseling, and resource partner referrals to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has 22 organizations participating in this cooperative agreement and serving as VBOCs.

yber threats aren’t just a major threat for big corporations and government, small businesses are main targets now too. In fact, they have become prime targets for cybercriminals due to perceived vulnerabilities and limited resources for cybersecurity measures.

Cybersecurity for Your Small Business C

Protecting your small business from cyberattacks is vital to safeguarding your data, financials, and overall success. However, with the ever-evolving cyber landscape, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This guide is provided to help your small business navigate the realm of cyber threats and implement essential cybersecurity practices to defend against potential attacks.

Why Cybersecurity Matters for Small Businesses

The consequences of a successful cyberattack on a small business can be severe. Cybercriminals can gain access to critical data such as customer information, credit card details, banking information, and proprietary business plans. Moreover, the interconnected nature of supply chains makes small businesses a stepping stone for hackers to breach larger networks. As more businesses rely on cloud-based technologies and remote work, the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses has surged. It is essential to protect data and cloud-based systems from unauthorized access or breaches to preserve your business’s financial standing and reputation.

The Impact of Cyber Attacks on Small Businesses

The repercussions of a cyberattack on a small business can be devastating. Studies show that approximately 60% of small businesses that fall victim to an attack shut down within six months after the breach. Aside from potential closure, businesses may face financial losses due to theft of banking information, disruption of operations, and high costs associated with cleaning the network from threats. Additionally, damage to a company’s reputation after informing customers of compromised information can result in a loss of trust. Safeguarding against cyberattacks is, therefore, imperative for the survival and growth of small businesses.

Essential Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses

Conduct Risk Assessment

Identify potential security risks that could compromise your business’s networks, systems, and data. Determine where data is stored, who has access to it, and potential methods attackers might use to breach your network.

Regular Software and Patch Updates

Most people never consider that software or systems need to be manually updated because they are used to

automatic updates on their PCs and laptops, especially from Windows or Windows-based programs. However, some software, such as the Wi-Fi router’s firmware, needs to be manually updated. Software updates include security patches, which are necessary in the fight against cyber threats. Without these new patches, a router—and the devices connected to it—remain vulnerable. As such, businesses should update their wireless router’s firmware, in addition to all the devices in the workplace—printers, scanners, and the like.

Train Your Employees

Invest in cybersecurity training for your employees to prevent insider threats and educate your staff about recognizing phishing attempts and the importance of strong passwords. Clear policies on handling and protecting customer information should be established.

Strong Passwords

Strong passwords that are hard to figure out—20 characters in length, including numbers, letters, and symbols—are a must in the fight against cyber threats. The more difficult to crack a password, the less likely a brute-force attack will be successful.

Photo Courtesy ofVBOCoftheDakotas

Authentication

As an additional measure, small businesses should incorporate multi-factor authentication (MFA) into their employee’s devices and apps. There are password keepers, apps for storing and managing passwords, that not only keep track of passwords but also set reminders when they are due for an update.

Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) enables employees to access a company’s network securely while working remotely or during travel. This is important because employees frequently rely on the Internet for connectivity, which may not offer the same level of security as the company’s internal network. By encrypting data, VPNs not only enhance security but also act as a valuable defense against potential cyberattacks. This added layer of protection is particularly significant when employees are utilizing their home Wi-Fi, connecting to networks at different locations, such as cafes, restaurants, or alternate work sites, or accessing public internet hotspots.

Use a Firewall

The implementation of a firewall ensures comprehensive security for your business’s network traffic,

encompassing both inbound and outbound data. By blocking specific websites, it acts as a barrier against hackers attempting to breach your network. Additionally, it can be configured to restrict the transmission of sensitive information and confidential emails from your company’s network. Once your firewall is installed, remember to keep it up to date. Check regularly that it has the latest updates for software or firmware.

Secure Your Wi-Fi Networks

A small business must secure their wireless networks in as many ways as they can. Two easy things they can do is change the router’s default name and password. It is important to change the router’s name to a name that does not automatically give the name of the business away. Next, encrypt the wireless network to the strongest protocol available, which is currently Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3), as advised by the W-Fi Alliance. One additional way to ensure that the Wi-Fi network remains secure is to constantly check that all the devices connected to the network are also secure—using strong passwords and data encryption—as mentioned above.

Implement Best Practices on Payment Cards

Small enterprises place their trust in financial institutions and

card processors to ensure the enforcement of robust anti-fraud mechanisms. Beyond handling customers’ cards with the utmost caution, it’s crucial to bolster the security framework of the business’s wireless network, opting for the strongest safeguard, WPA3. Retailers are prohibited by the PCI Security Standards Council from processing credit card data through the outdated Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) protocol, which was abandoned back in 2003.

Limit Physical Access to Computers

While you need to be mindful of hackers trying to breach your network, don’t forget that your hardware can be stolen too. Just as one safeguards access to a building or tangible resources, it’s imperative to hinder unauthorized individuals from potentially gaining entry to business-owned laptops, PCs, scanners, and other devices. This could involve physically securing the device or incorporating a physical tracker to facilitate retrieval in case of theft or misplacement. In instances where devices are shared among several employees, businesses ought to contemplate establishing distinct user accounts and profiles, thereby enhancing protective measures.

Don’t Overlook Mobile Devices

Mobile devices pose security challenges, particularly when they contain sensitive data or have access to the corporate network. However, they are occasionally neglected during a business’s cybersecurity planning. It’s essential to remind your employees to password-protect their mobile devices, install security applications, and employ data encryption to stop cybercriminals from stealing information when the phone connects to public networks. Additionally, establish clear reporting protocols in the event of lost or stolen phones and tablets.

Verify the Security of Third Parties

Exercise caution when dealing with external entities such as partners or suppliers who might require access to your systems. Ensure that they adhere to comparable security measures as your own. Don’t hesitate to conduct thorough assessments before granting any form of access.

When seeking cybersecurity assistance, consider reputable companies with a track record of independent testing and positive reviews. Avoid opting for cheap options that lack comprehensive protection and support. Look for companies that provide extra support, navigate threats, and offer a full range of security systems suitable for your business’s growth.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, small businesses must prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard their data, finances, and reputation. By implementing the essential tips

outlined in this guide and choosing the right cybersecurity partner, small businesses can strengthen their defense against cyberattacks. Investing in employee training, risk assessment, and robust security measures can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber threats. Protecting your business from cyberattacks is an ongoing process, but with the right strategies in place, you can mitigate potential risks and focus on growing your business with confidence.

VBOC of the Dakotas

(701) 738-4850

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@DakotasVBOC

4200 James Ray Dr Grand Forks, ND 58201

Women You Should Know

Stephanie Miller

CHEF AND OWNER OF BUTTERHORN

Photo by Geneva Nodland

By Arielle Windham

Empowered by Ladyboss Lifestyle

When chef Stephanie Miller took the stage in the 2022 season of Top Chef, she was prepared for a tough competition. It had already taken years to get through the audition process. When she got to the show, she found herself going headto-head with renowned chefs from across the globe. Through several rounds, she raced against the clock and the discerning judges’ palates.

“Top Chef was an exciting experience,” Miller said. “Stressful, but exciting. The drama on the show is intense. Stress is just a natural part of the job in the kitchen, but this was no joke. It was amazing to see my fellow contestants’ caliber under stress.”

The most important lesson Miller learned from her time on Top Chef, though, was a personal one. “I’m a Midwesterner,” Miller said. “I love taking traditional Midwestern flavors and elevating them. In the show, I wasn’t cooking what I wanted to cook. Doing that round after round helped me discover where my heart is. Right here.”

Recipe for Success Bismarck Chef Elevates Midwest Flavors to the World Culinary Stage

Grandma’s Kitchen

Like most Midwesterners, Miller’s first cooking memory is sitting on the counter at her grandma’s house during the holidays. The dishes were quintessential Midwestern comfort food and always delicious. During her culinary training, she immersed herself in techniques and dishes from around the world, but at the end of the day, she always came back to the flavors of home.

Butterhorn, Miller’s flagship restaurant in downtown Bismarck, is a prime example of how she looks to blend traditional and fine dining.

“Butterhorn is a traditional Norwegian yeasted bread, usually with icing,” Miller said. But skipping the sweet drizzle and serving it at the start of the meal allows this soft, buttery bread to shine. Midwest— elevated.

Miller takes a similar approach to the rest of the dishes on the menu, pairing fresh, locally sourced ingredients with the comforting flavors of grandma’s kitchen for a unique fine-dining experience.

Learning to Stand the Heat

While she’s become somewhat of a celebrity chef in the region, and locals and visitors alike make sure to eat at Butterhorn, Miller admits being a chef and restaurateur in the current economy isn’t easy. An explosion of cooking shows and the rise of celebrity chef culture puts a somewhat glamorous shine on the hard, often physically demanding reality of life in the kitchen.

“It’s a difficult profession,” Miller said. She admits that equality in the kitchen has come a long way in a short time, with more and more women taking lead roles in the kitchen and in facility management, but the long hours and inconvenient schedules make culinary life challenging for both women and men.

“Anyone who wants to be a chef or own a restaurant, I try to help them understand how time-consuming it is,” Miller said. “You’re working 12-hour days, nights, and weekends. You end up missing all the holidays because it’s your busiest time.”

That’s not to say she wants to discourage those interested in the culinary path. Only caution them. The chef yelling obscenities at his staff is pure Hollywood, but it is a profession that values the experience you gain working your way up the culinary ladder. She recommends spending time in the trenches—washing dishes, bussing tables, peeling vegetables. Get to know the industry before jumping in feet first.

Tastes of Success

So why do it? The stress. The long hours. The challenges of rising food prices and labor shortages. Love. A love of sharing good food with good people. Of providing a fine-dining experience that takes Grandma’s comfort food to exciting new levels of flavor.

People’s tastes change. A good chef needs to think on their feet, adapting to meet the needs of their guests. This was something Miller learned long before Top Chef. It was knowledge she honed in the heat of competition, though. Most nights, the kitchen at Butterhorn is quiet compared to the studio stage, but the concentration, effort, and attention to detail are as sharp as ever.