Business Newsmakers Summer 2011

Page 1

sunday | June 26

an advertising supplement to the

PAGE 1

the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area.

special

WOMEN IN BUSINESS summer 2011

Arcadia Clinic

Deidre Smith always knew she wanted to do something different in her life. It wasn't until after graduating in psychology from Carroll College and working as a social worker and licensed massage therapist that she finally discovered that something different in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. Today, Smith is the owner of Arcadia Acupuncture Clinic in Helena. Smith explained that a friend encouraged her to pursue acupuncture, especially since she had a good base with her medical massage therapy and science background. Taking that advice, Smith pursued her masters degree at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine. After receiving her masters, Smith pursued additional training in Nanjing, China. During her stay, she studied at three different hospitals specializing in oncology, women's health and fertility, and cardiac health. Smith noted that the Chinese hospitals were unique in that they blended Western medicine with traditional Chinese medicine. Smith brought back the concept of an integrative medical model combining different forms of medicine into her own practice at Arcadia. “I don't think medicine should be all or nothing. You shouldn't have to chose one treatment or medicine over the other because what works may be a combination of modalities,” said Smith. At Arcadia, Smith offers services in acupuncture, Chinese herbology, moxibustion, trigger point therapy and the HCG diet protocol. Smith has a particular interest in fertility and is currently studying to take the board exam in ABORM (American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine). Once certified, Smith will become the only ABORM diplomat, not only in Montana, but in this region of the U.S. Her pursuit of the ABORM certification is a testament to Smith's belief that continuing education is key to medicine. But at the end of the day, it is the patients’ reactions that inspire Smith to continue her work. Smith admitted that “having someone call me up and say they're pregnant when they were never supposed to get pregnant without medical intervention or finally finding lasting relief from their chronic pain” are some of the most rewarding parts of her job. Traditional Chinese medicine has been practiced for over 2,500 years, treating all types of conditions. If you've tried every treatment available through allopathic medicine without success, then looking outside that scope may provide success in treating your condition. –By Lacey Middlestead

features page 5-8

Big Sky Cycling & Fitness

Sewing Palace

Big Sky Cycling & Fitness is celebrating 25 years in business. During this time they have grown from a small bike shop into a large, full service store at 801 N. Last Chance Gulch. Jim Barnes started working in a bike shop in Illinois in high school and has worked in a bike shop every year since. Barnes originally opened Big Sky Cyclery on 11th Avenue with a staff of two, in February 1986. Since then, it has grown to a staff of 10 during the spring and summer and moved to a larger new location. Big Sky Cycling & Fitness carries a large selection of bicycles, clothing and accessories. They offer a trade-in program when you’re ready to upgrade to a new bike or when your child outgrows his/her bike. The full-service repair shop repairs all brands and types of bikes. They keep a large variety of parts, tires and tubes on hand. In addition to bicycles, the store carries fitness equipment and hockey gear, including ice skates. Other services provided by Big Sky Cycling & Fitness include professional bike fittings. There are three different options, from a basic handlebar adjustment to a deluxe fitting to help make your bike fit more comfortably. The locally owned company sponsors many bike events throughout the summer, including the Queen City Triathlon and the Unravel the Scratch Gravel mountain bike race. Each summer they teach beginning and advanced mountain biking classes to 8-10 year olds. Students learn the fundamentals of shifting, braking and trail riding. Jim teaches safety and helmet use around the community to schools, Boy Scout troops and 4-H groups. Big Sky Cycling also offers public rides. Mountain bike rides for beginner and intermediate riders start at the store at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays and intermediate/advanced riders meet on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Melinda Barnes, Jim's wife and co-owner, also leads a women’s ride on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. “We want bikes out of the garage with people riding them,” Jim said. For the last 25 years, Big Sky Cycling has done their best to help Helena do just that. –By Marianne Hansen Rencher

Helena’s community of quilters and sewers now has a new home to unleash their creative juices in with The Sewing Palace’s recent relocation. According to Jenny Yannone, owner of The Sewing Palace, the decision to move was spurred by their previous building being sold and the lease not renewed. Yannone saw this as a prime opportunity to purchase a building of her own and make an investment of it. The decision proved to be a positive one, and Yannone couldn’t be happier at the perks of her new building. The new location is located right off of busy Lyndale Avenue, which will no doubt route more customers to the store. One interior feature that particularly interested Yannone was the building’s tall ceilings, which better allow for the hanging of quilts along the walls with fabric displays underneath. The space reserved for sewing classes is not only larger but provides natural light through skylights, better electrical capacity for machines and irons, and a projector screen for demonstrations. A kids room with a playhouse was set up to enable hassle free shopping for parents. The sales floor for the store’s prized Bernina sewing machines has also been upgraded and expanded. The Sewing Palace’s logo also received a makeover and is now more sophisticated and fun. Despite all the changes, The Sewing Palace still offers the same great service and products. The store features quilting cottons, new 100 percent organic cotton fabrics, home décor fabrics, high-end embroidery accessories, a large selection of threads, sewing kits and the full line of Bernina sewing machines. The store employs two Bernina-certified technicians who service all brands of sewing machines. A variety of classes are also offered for all levels of sewers. “Everyone from a 7-year-old to a 90-year-old can find something here,” said Yannone. On July 8, 9 and 10, The Sewing Palace will host a grand re-opening featuring great discounts and lots of giveaways, including a $1,000 sewing machine and a suitcase organizer. “Sewing is very therapeutic for me and it brings me a lot of joy to give handmade gifts away,” said Yannone. To find out more about classes offered at The Sewing Palace, visit www.thesewingpalacebernina.com or find them on Facebook. And stop by to check out the new store; just look for the red stripes on the building. –By Lacey Middlestead

Bicycles Clothing Accessories Repairs Rental Bikes

GRAND OPENING

CELEBRATION

July 8th - 10th Register daily to win prizes GRAND PRIZE BERNINA 215 25% OFF store wide*

*See store for details

Value $1,099

Grand Opening Hours: Early Bird Hours Friday 7am - 6pm Saturday - 10am - 5pm • Sunday - Noon - 4pm

801 North Last Chance Gulch (next to the Bagel Company, downtown)

442-4644 www.bigskybikes.com

124 E. Lyndale Avenue

443-5724

thesewingpalacebernina.com

sunday | June 26

an advertising supplement to the

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the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area.

summer 2011

American Federal Savings Bank

LOCK IN a great rate Pam Charlton, AVP operations officer, Lisa Nelson, Neill branch manager and Hayley Emly, Skyway branch supervisor. Eliza Wiley Independent Record

HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT (HELOC)* Fund education, travel, home remodel/repair, debt consolidation & more! Predictable—no interest rate hikes Interest may be tax-deductible** Interest-only payment plan available

1400 Prospect s 28 Neill, downtown s 2090 Cromwell Dixon, across from Costco americanfederalsavingsbank.com *On approved credit. Certain restrictions may apply. Applicant responsible for closing costs, which may range from $45-$200, additional charges for appraisal and title insurance where applicable. Property insurance required. **See your tax advisor for details.

From the outside, American Federal Savings Bank is just another bank in Helena. But to its employees, it is a “home away from home,” according to Pam Charlton, assistant vice president of Helena operations. Charlton began her journey with American Federal as a humble part-time teller. Now, 19 years later, Charlton is not only still working there but holds the esteemed position as one of its operations officers. American Federal is home to many long-standing employees and Charlton attributes that to the bank treating its employees like “extended family members.” Ali Mandell, American Federal’s marketing director concurred saying: “It’s refreshing to see the fact that people stay here so long. It’s a real testament to the bank culture and how they grow their individuals.” When it comes to the bank’s customers, it is all about building relationships. Charlton explained that the bank makes all of its decisions locally, since the bank headquarters are located at the Prospect Avenue branch in Helena. American Federal doesn’t have to reach out to a larger company to get approval on anything. The bank is always willing to go that extra mile, too. According to Charlton, American Federal has gone so far as to pick up deposits for individuals who aren’t able to travel to the bank. American Federal not only makes its employees and customers feel like family, but the Helena community as well. Charlton admitted that most of American Federal’s officers belong to some kind of service organization because “we are passionate about giving back, building relationships and fostering growth in our communities.” American Federal donates to and/or sponsors over 200 charities, events, and non-profit organizations in the Helena community alone. Alive at Five, Strutt Your Mutt, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Spirit of Service, and Buck Night at the Brewers baseball field names just a few. The Neill Avenue branch also recently held a diaper drive in support of the Florence Crittenton Home. The staff of American Federal also put their customer service to work in the bank products they offer. Both consumer and commercial lending products are available along with a special line of value checking accounts that include lifestyle benefits. These value accounts are classified as Eagle, Golden Eagle and Golden Eagle Plus, based on a customer’s age. Golden Eagle and Golden Eagle Plus accounts are for customers 50 years and older while Eagle is open to those younger than 50. The lifestyle benefits include rewards and discounts on things ranging from travel and recreation, dining, online shopping, roadside assistance and travel accidental death insurance. Whether helping the community, their customers, or their employees, American Federal never fails to proudly uphold its slogan of “Banking with a Personal Touch.” “When we say we love our jobs, we truly mean it,” said Charlton. –By Lacey Middlestead

Best Western Great Northern Hotel

If you need a quick getaway, the finest solution is Montana’s only Best Western Premier hotel: The Great Northern. Whether you have come to the Great Northern Hotel many times before or if this is your first time, your experience is the same: you continue to awe at the small details the Hotel has and the service you receive. The first thing you notice when you walk into the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel is the welcoming atmosphere. Although eight years old, guests comment how new and fresh the Hotel looks. The warm colors are relaxing and the immediate greeting from the staff makes you feel right at home. When you step up to the front desk, you see the Great Northern Railroad décor, beginning with the model train running above you. Best Western has recently named the Great Northern Hotel the 10th hotel to become a Best Western Premier in the United States. The Hotel’s top concern is

guests’ comfort. Each guest room has inroom safes, Bath and Body Works amenities, iHome clock radios, and umbrellas for convenience and comfort. Next to the lobby is a gift shop with all the easy-to-forget items, but it also focuses on local gifts. You can find locally made pottery, cards, and jewelry and if your sweet tooth wakes you up in the middle of the night, you can sneak down for

some Parrot Confectionery candy. The staff at the Great Northern Hotel works together to take care of any guest’s needs. “Our staff has a ‘we’ attitude,” Marti Bara, general manager said. Recently a guest whose son graduated from Carroll College commented that what he will miss most about visiting the Helena area is the Great Northern Hotel. He writes “…the entire staff always

made the stay extra comfortable and were always willing to help with anything.” Best Western has recognized the Great Northern as being in the top 20th percentile in guest satisfaction, customer care, and quality assurance and has given the Hotel numerous awards for this detail to service. Guests at the Great Northern Hotel often want to learn more about Helena. From the housekeepers to the conference staff, many personnel “spent a day touring so that they could see the places of interest in Helena and share that information with guests,” said Carol Eichler, Director of Sales. Even the van drivers can share Helena’s history on the drive from the airport to your room. The Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel excels in customer service and amenities. Whether you are planning a convention, a wedding, a reunion or just want to get away, this is the place to meet all your needs. –By Marianne Hansen Rencher

GREATNORTHERN GREATEXPERIENCE HELENA’S MOST DELUXE HOTEL. 835 Great Northern Blvd

406.457.5500/800.829.4047

bestwestern.com/helenagreatnorthernhotel

sunday | June 26

an advertising supplement to the

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the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area.

summer 2011

J4 Automotive

Remember that catchy jingle ‘Falling in love with your car again… at J4 Automotive’? Well, at J4, they are doing just that. Helena Valley’s No. 1 Auto Care Center has recently completed a huge expansion to better serve the Helena Area and its customers. Owners Kit and Vi Johnson have given their shop a face lift, added 2,000 square feet to their business, and have purchased $50,000 worth of alignment system. Their total space now equals 6,000 square feet with 10 bays and room for more. Valley Bank of Helena and Diamond Construction helped complete the project that is satisfying both the owners and their customers. Kit can’t say enough about their work.” I know that everyone’s saying building and construction is tough now, but Valley Bank was easy to work with and Diamond Construction did a great job for us.” The Johnson’s hard work for the last 17 years has been recognized by the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce. J4 Automotive received the 2010 Small Business of the Year Award. “To be recognized by your peers is incredible—definitely an honor on the same level as the National NAPA Technician of the Year, which is like the Heisman Trophy of the automotive industry. Affirmation of your work and efforts you put in to the community, there’s just no bigger honor,” states Kit. J4 Automotive owners Vi and Kit Johnson are finalizing their newly expanded auto shop in East Helena, which The family owners are vested in community. Their philosophy is to give back to the includes an automated hydraulic lift and two extra bays. Dylan Brown Independent Record community where they live and do business. Kit has served two terms on the school board of East Helena District #9, is a member of the East Helena City Council and is counted to help the customer stretch their dollar. a planning board member. Vi has been a recipient of the Red Cross Volunteer Award. Since their inception, J4 Automotive’s technicians have been recognized over a dozBoth are involved in Veteran’s affairs with Kit having served in Desert Storm and en times for outstanding community and customer service. J4 Automotive is proud to both Kit and Vi as officers in the Marine Corps League and Auxiliary. Kit is quick to be the first AAA Approved Auto Repair facility in the Mountain West region and the give credit to his wife Vi for her business savvy, marketing techniques and day-to-day first ASE Blue Seal of Excellence shop in the greater Helena area. They are a member accounting in the growing hometown Helena business. of the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce, and the business has an A+ rating and is Located at 3 S. Lane Avenue in East Helena, J4 Automotive offers their customers a a member of the Northwestern region Better Business Bureau (BBB). Find out more full service, total automotive repair facility that provides all inclusive auto and light about J4 by visiting j4automotive.com. Trained technicians are on hand to answer any truck repair and maintenance for every make and model vehicle on the road today. of your questions or make an appointment by calling 406-227-8622. In addition, they offer packaged maintenance items and specials that are deeply dis–By Mary Duede

Come see the all new J4 Automotive Alignments

$37 Mention this ad to get alignment special *Call for details Expires: 7/31/11

#3 Lane Ave • East Helena www.j4automotive.com Kit & Vi Johnson

227-8622

Voted best Small Business by Chamber of Commerce

SUNDAY OPEN HOUSE 1- 3PM 3640 Green Meadow Dr.

$20,000 price reduction. Victorian “Doll House” in a beautiful setting. Only minutes from town. Huge 3 car garage with heated workshop and office. All this on a beautiful 1 1/2 acres. Small horse barn ready to go. MLS# 279561

SELECT REALTY WELCOMES JACK RHODES My background in sales and communication can help you sell your home. I’m a former high school teacher and coach. I owned a retail business on the Hi-Line for fifteen years before selling it to work as a sales manager for Jim Taylor Motors. When my wife, Jane, retired from teaching, we moved to Helena to be closer to our two granddaughters. I launched RelyLocal, an internet business directory and became a realtor at Select Realty. I also have my own website. www.wesellmontana.com • jack@wesellmontana.com

“It’s all about choices” 27 Neil Ave Suite 102 • Helena, MT (406) 449-8831 www.selectrealty.com

PASSION • KNOWLEDGE • EXPERIENCE Eric Grove

Cole Johnson

Aubrey Curtis

Great Divide Cyclery Owner

Great Divide Cyclery Service Manager

Great Divide Cyclery Inventory/Special Orders

Trail Rider Road Rider Single Speeder

Expert Class Downhill Competitor

Elite Triathlete/Coach/Trail Rider/Commuter

Thanks Helena for selecting us Helena’s Best Bike Shop

sunday | June 26

an advertising supplement to the

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the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area.

summer 2011

Mountain Surgical Arts

Real Deals

Growing up, one of Denise Wolf’s favorite things to do was to go to her parents’ furniture store on Saturdays and help redecorate and rearrange the inventory. “It was the most fun thing I could think of doing,� said Wolf. One year ago, Wolf found a similar decorating niche for herself when she assumed ownership of Real Deals on Home Decor in Helena. Real Deals is a franchised business that started in Twin Falls, Idaho in 2003 and today has over 70 locations nationwide. The stores, which are only open Thursdays and Saturdays, offer a variety of items to adorn and dress up your home. Items include mirrors, clocks, pottery pieces, candles, rustic mahogany furniture, and so much more. In staying true to its name, Real Deals offers all of its products at prices that are a “real deal.� “Everyone wants to make their home pretty but not everyone wants to pay a high price for it,� said Wolf. Wolf was first attracted to Real Deals on Home Decor because it was something she was already familiar with having grown up in her parents’ furniture store. She also recognized that the store’s concept fit a niche that Helena didn’t have but really needed. That belief must be true because, according to Wolf, the Helena store fan base has only grown with time. “Our fans have really embraced the Helena Real Deals store when they’re looking for something new and different,� said Wolf. Wolf, who also co-owns an insurance company in town with her husband, says she loves both businesses, but that Real Deals is her fun job. Her love for redecorating still gets fulfilled as Wolf brings in new, fun items to fill the store walls and displays each week. “I try to keep everything new and fresh,� Wolf said. But even greater than her love of redecorating, is Wolf’s love of her customers. “I meet so many people and when they walk through the door, it’s like having a party with friends,� said Wolf. Real Deals recently celebrated their two-year anniversary in Helena as well as being recognized as the most improved Real Deals store this year out of the 70 stores nationally. Helena’s Real Deals is located at 1400 Joslyn St., Unit B, and open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturdays. –By Lacey Middlestead

DR. KONTNY Oncoplastic Surgeon Fellow, American College of Surgeons Is here to support women’s breast heath in Helena. Providing minimally invasive breast biopsy in the comfort of her office with a knowledgeable team of support staff. She offers advanced breast cancer surgery and treatment options. Now offering laser facial rejuvenation, laser hair removal, Botox and medical grade skin health products. Come in and relax with a therapeutic massage or rejuvenating facial.

Spring Meadow Life Coaching

Everyone needs a life coach. Anyone who wants to stop making the same choices over and over or who is frustrated with a part of their life can be helped through coaching. Life coaching helps you take positive action to find a career you enjoy or to live life to its fullest. “Everyone has the power and ability to move forward,� Dr. Carla Williams, MD and life coach, said. Two years ago, Williams, an obstetrician and gynecologist, realized that what she enjoys most is connecting with people and helping them reach their potential. She knew she had to make a change and saw how life coaching would help her reach her goals. She trained for a year at Accomplishment Coaching with over 190 hours of training and is certified with the International Coaching Federation. Her training focused on ontology or the study of “being.� Once you can understand how you act or think, you can change your life. Williams doesn’t give advice, judge your actions or tell you what to do. She motivates, offers support, and helps you discover the strengths that help you live the life you would like to live. She enjoys seeing “people make the connection that they truly have control of their lives, in ways that they don’t always think about,� she said. At Spring Meadow Life Coaching, you learn how to understand what you need and want and how you have been stopping yourself from getting it. You learn how to look at responsibility in your life without blame or judgment so that you can make big changes. Spring Meadow Life Coaching offers group and individual coaching sessions. You can take a sample session which usually lasts 1.5 hours and often focuses on seeing yourself in a positive light and recognizing your gifts and power. Sessions can occur in person, on the phone, or on Skype. Whether you need a life or career change or want to make your environment and accomplishments better, Carla Williams can help you ask the questions and set the goals you need to achieve the life you deserve. –By Marianne Hansen Rencher

Spring Your Life

Forward

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Don’t Miss The Fun Every Thursday & Saturday! Mirrors • Lamps • Clocks • Candles • Stars • Trunks • Seasonal •

Metal Wall Hangings Pottery • Vintage Furniture Pieces • Vintage Vanities • Signs •

3130 Saddle Drive, Suite 2 Helena 513-1962

With Life Coaching Enhance your life Learn to operate from your true essence Stop procrastinating Recharge your relationships Improve your work environment

•

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Real Deals on Home DĂŠcor

1400 Joslyn St., Unit B • Helena, MT 59601 • 406-513-1022 Thursday 10–6, Saturday 10–3 • www.realdeals.net/helena

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Change careers or up your game in your current career

Forever transformations start here! Spring Meadow Life Coaching Carla Williams, MD, Life Coach springcoach@gmail.com

461-6621

sunday | June 26

an advertising supplement to the

PAGE 5

women in business summer 2011

No longer squeaking by By JEFF WINDMUELLER Independent Record

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n a rainy Wednesday in Pipsqueak Second Hand Boutique, store owner Sarah Cook stands in front of the checkout counter, instructing Nicole Newman on the way to secure a baby in a Moby Wrap. “You bring it behind you, then pull across ...� Cook says as she twists and turns, wrapping the soft green fabric around her body to hold her “demo baby,� a plastic child to train with. “Ultimately, the last one is the seatbelt, and you want to wrap it around your baby.� While Cook continues to show the mother of two products around the store — from the latest state-ofthe-art breast pumps to the “preloved� consignment children’s clothing — Celeste McElderry and Ronda Pekovitch chit-chat as they pull infants’ apparel off the metal racks with their sleeping children in tow. “We just met actually because of the babies,� says Pekovitch, who has 6-week-old Cooper sleeping in a baby carrier. She made friends with McElderry, who recently moved to Helena from Tampa, Fla., during pre-birth classes at St. Peter’s Hospital. “The clothes are very good priced and the kids just grow out so fast, I’d hate to buy new ones for 10 or 12 bucks apiece,� Pekovitch says. This is the end of the morning rush at Pipsqueak, when the mothers of newborns from across Helena are making their rounds among the consignment store’s numerous shelves, which house just about everything baby-related. There are walkers and jogging strollers, basinets and tray tables and, of course, plenty of toys and baby books. And, for the mom concerned with their own comfort and style, there’s even a line of

maternity clothes from Kel’s Collection in the corner. “It’s a relief that they’re carrying cloth diapers and nursery supplies,� says Newman, who is expecting her third child in December. “It’s hard to order that stuff online. It’s very personal; you want to touch and feel.� And, of course, have someone like Cook to show you how to use it and answer questions, she says. Having come from Missoula, Newman was used to having plenty of places to shop for children’s clothing on the cheap. But, when she came to Helena, there weren’t many options until she heard about Pipsqueak, where she was able to pick up a pair of rainboots for one of her sons. Little does she know that nearly two years ago the Capital City’s lone consignment store dedicated solely to newborns and their mothers (well, fathers too), was told it should shut its doors forever. Having stepped into the new world of owning a business, Cook was shocked to hear when her loan specialist suggested to close shop after the store had run out of working capital. “I asked them ‘what would be a good strategy to overcome this obstacle?’ � Cook recalls. “They told me, ‘we really recommend you close and file for bankruptcy.’ � She couldn’t understand why an institution that had helped her secure funding in the first place would be so quick to let the business flounder. “I talked to my husband about it, we talked about the idea of quitting,� she says. “We’re young, we don’t want to ruin our credit for however many years, and we’re not ready to give up on this plan. We’re going to find a way.� And they did. Two years later, Pipsqueak’s

sales are stronger than ever and what was just a single consignment store has grown into three businesses under one roof. As she sees more people walk through her doors from Great Falls, Bozeman and Missoula, Cook is no longer looking to be just another store offering her services in the Capital City. “I’m trying to switch my marketing to the ‘best consignment store in Montana,’� she says.

Cook views her original business plan as a little bit of a fairy tale. Like Newman, she had moved to Helena from Missoula and struggled to find used baby products, searching the thrift stores and garage sales across town. “We moved to Helena when my youngest son was a few days old. In the move, I had gotten rid of all my baby stuff and I was looking for more,� she said. “I said, ‘Kevin, this town needs a second-hand (baby) store, and I’m the woman to do it.’ � The couple began talking about the possibility and planning a marketing strategy — things like whether the store would be buying clothes outright or working on consignment — but it wasn’t until the location on Helena Avenue opened up that they knew they were going to go for it. Though she had been selling a line of jewelry for years, she was able to do it while remaining a stay-at-home mom. Becoming a store owner would be a drastic change. In her first plan for the store she would be the lone employee, with her two children (then under 5 years old each) playing in one of

Once told to close up shop, Pipsqueak Second Hand Boutique is now operating better than ever thanks to some grit and keen business sense by owner Sarah Cook.

the shop’s open areas as she tended to customers. The very optimistic plan didn’t take into account just how improbable that would be. “The reality of it is this is 2,000 feet of retail space with constant inventory work and that’s too much for one person to do by themselves,� she said. She had to hire on employees, an unexpected cost, and though she advertised in numerous medias she struggled More PIPSQUEAK, page 8

Helena’s Full Service Catholic

Book & Gift Store

Maureen Batey & GG Grotbo, Owners

Connie Jacobson and Zach Robinson

The Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern is proud of our influential women managers and the longevity they have with us. Customer Service is a top priority and these managers lead the team! The entire management team has been instrumental in achieving the Premier designation. Marti Bara General Manager 8 years, Carol Eichler Director of Sales- 9 years Caryn Walsh Conference Coordinator – 6 years, Chantelle McDuffie Accountant/HR Manager – 1 ½ years, Mary Kessinger Catering Coordinator – 8 years, Rae Nickerson Executive Housekeeper – 6 years.

Our mission is to spread the love of the Father, Son & Holy Spirit through the inspiration of Catholic books and gifts, and to enhance the spiritual journeys of Catholics and other Christians of all ages. â?– NEW Garden Art

â?– Jewelry

â?– Catholic Books & Bibles â?– Medals â?– Rosaries of All Kinds

â?– Statues

â?– Greeting Cards

â?– Religious Art

â?– Crosses/Crucifixes

â?– and much more

Gayle Grimsrud has been a local State Farm agent in Helena for the past 26 years. Gayle offers a wide variety of products ranging from auto, homeowners, life, health, retirement and financial products. Commitment to quality customer service is important to Gayle. Connie Jacobson, a fourth generation Helenan, has been with Gayle’s office since 1992. Connie is dedicated to providing quality customer service. She is licensed in all lines of insurance and her years of experience make customers feel at ease when dealing with their own insurance needs.

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GREATNORTHERN GREATEXPERIENCE HELENA’S MOST DELUXE HOTEL.

Open Tues - Fri 9:30 am to 5:30 pm • Sat 10 am to 4 pm

1530 Cedar Street, Suite A, Helena 406-449-4GOD(4463) t-sales@trinitybooksgifts.com

GayleGrimsrud Grimsrud Gayle dC

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Zach Robinson, a current Carroll College student, has joined Gayle’s agency to help provide the good neighbor service people have come to expect from State Farm. d

Please feel free to stop by and meet Gayle, Connie and Zach to see how they can help you with your insurance needs. 1303 11th AVENUE s (ELENA -4 s GAYLE GRIMSRUD B STATEFARM COM

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an advertising supplement to the

sunday | June 26

women in business Bringing business to reservations Q&A with Sue Woodrow Interview by Jeff Windmueller

Q A

What is your primary mission with the Federal Reserve?

Woodrow: My primary work is in low- and moderate-income communities. The mission of community development at the Minneapolis Fed is to support the Federal Reserve System’s economic growth objectives by promoting community development through fair, impartial and efficient access to credit and related financial services. This involves establishing public and private partnerships, providing technical assistance and resources, and sharing innovative models that foster access to credit and investment in low- and moderateincome communities. In the Minneapolis Fed’s District (Montana, North and South Dakota, Minnesota, northwestern Wisconsin, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan), we have 43 American Indian reservations, so our community development area has a significant focus in these communities.

Q A

Q

What are the difficulties with establishing businesses on the reservations? Woodrow: There are many challenges, such as limited access to

business practices and culture, but I see a lot of good work being done. For me, it’s a tremendous privilege to support my colleagues in our tribal communities.

Q A

What is the progress we’re seeing?

What kind of initiatives have you worked on to have an impact on the reservations?

Woodrow: I am very encouraged by the growth in Native-owned small businesses in Montana. And I am particularly happy to see growing numbers of Native youth seeking business education and entrepreneurship training opportunities.

A

Q

Q

Woodrow: One significant effort has been my long-term involvement with the Uniform Law Commission (ULC), a national organization that drafts model laws for state legislative consideration. I served as an adviser to a ULC committee for several years drafting a model tribal commercial law, and continue to do outreach and training with tribes across the country on that model law.

What does that work entail?

Woodrow: The legal development work I do with tribes has taken me across the country, from upstate New York to Oregon to Oklahoma, working with many tribes and Native American organizations. I’m also one of the cofounders and an active board member of the Montana Indian Business Alliance (MIBA). MIBA’s overarching mission is to foster Native entrepreneurship and small business development in our reservation communities. I also work closely with MIBA’s sister Indian Business Alliances South Dakota and Minnesota, together with colleagues from our Minneapolis office.

A

business credit and capital, and restrictions on use of land held in trust by the federal government. An important development for breaking down some of the barriers is for tribes to adopt sound, comprehensive commercial and business laws. The tribes in Montana are in varying stages of modernizing their legal infrastructure and adopting policies that support entrepreneurship and small business development.

Q

With high rates of unemployment and poverty, are there cultural barriers to expanding economic opportunities?

A

Woodrow: Perhaps some; however, some of the most enterprising people I know live in Native communities. I am privileged to work with many bright, highly-educated Indian people dedicated to eliminating barriers to economic growth in their communities. There are many initiatives underway on every reservation in Montana. Change may appear to be slow, but people within the tribal communities are working hard to find an appropriate balance between adapting and adopting dominant culture business practices while retaining their sovereignty and traditions — traditions which include, historically, engaging in vast trading and enterprise networks. Sovereignty is really key to success. Sometimes its difficult for tribes to find an appropriate balance between modern

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Can you give us an example of an individual business success story at a reservation, inside or outside of the state?

A

Woodrow: There are so many successful Indian businesses I could talk about. One notable Native business woman is Rae Ann Cline who owns The Mane Event of Browning, LLC, a fullservice salon and cosmetology center that also hosts a sauna, tanning booth and boutique gift shop, housed in a lovely log cabin setting in Browning. She started her business in 2002, expanding to her current size in 2007 with a commercial loan and a grant from the Montana Department of Commerce Indian Equity Fund. Despite the economic downturn over the last couple of years, Rae Ann’s business has grown, and she and her staff are busy 10 to 12 hours a day. Rae Ann exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that is growing in our Native communities, and is helping to diversify and strengthen Montana’s Indian Country economies.

Sue Woodrow has been an employee of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis for 21 years. After nearly a decade as an attorney in the Minneapolis office, Woodrow transferred to the Helena branch in 1999. She now serves as community development adviser where much of her work involves assisting Native American tribes in Montana and across the nation to develop their commercial and business laws, and to support the tribes’ efforts to enhance their business environments and develop their economies.

Woodrow is also a co-founder and vice president of the Montana Financial Education Coalition, a broad-based alliance of organizations across Montana that advocates for and supports personal financial literacy. She resides with her husband, Gabe, in the Helena Birdseye community, and is active in music ministry at Last Chance Chapel.

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women in business Leaving a leader’s legacy By JEFF WINDMUELLER Independent Record

Michelle Johnston is trying to do Mi the tthings retired seniors are supposed to do. pose She’s joined a health club and Sh likes to exercise to Zumba classes or w with a personal trainer. She’s infat infatuated with her new granddaughter (she has three now), and d spends more time at home than she did traveling the state as the former district director of the Small Business Administration. After 36 years in government work, the woman formerly in charge of one of the most important economic programs in Montana finally decided to reap the benefits of retirement. She was replaced by new director Joe McClure in April. “Truly, I had my druthers about leaving, I’ll be honest,” she said. Though she was a little apprehensive about a life devoid of the work, she’s been thoroughly enjoying it since. “I don’t have to get up so early,” she said. Johnston took over as the acting director of the SBA in 2001 having already established herself as a forward-thinking manager. She began government work as early as 1974, when she was with Veterans Affairs. And, having received an SBA loan in 1979 for an autobody shop she started with her husband, Johnston was familiar with the program and the way it benefited the state’s business community when she joined the group in 1987. The daughter of a former beauty salon owner had found her calling and quickly began delving into new programs. “I had a true passion for small businesses,” she said. “I found my niche.” She started WNET (Women’s Network for Entrepreneurial Train-

ing) in the late 1980s, connecting former business owners and CEOs with up-and-coming proteges. She was then the first to get out to the Native American reservations with the hopes of establishing new business opportunities. “I did that by going through the colleges and tribal governments,” she said. “I was the first person they put in as the Native American coordinator.” In 2000, she took over the acting director position and was appointed the full-time spot by the next year. “It was a wonderful position, and in my other positions at the SBA, I had gotten to meet people all over the state,” she said. “I got to travel Montana. I went from Libby and Eureka all the way down to Broadus and Baker and those areas.” While she pushed for new commercial and industrial enterprises, she also knew to keep the new businesses grounded. “Sometimes the best thing we could do was to give them a little homework, to have them go home and discover that maybe they needed to keep their day job,” she said. “It’s not always the best business for that area. We had to let them come to their own conclusion. “I don’t want to see people put their life savings into something and fail.” Still, the SBA often surpassed expectations. After a scorecard for SBA offices came out in 2004, Montana’s ranked the highest for its market, having exceeded 125 percent of its goals. Robert Much, the supervisory business development specialist, said Johnston’s personality and business sense were her biggest benefits to the job.

“The lending commmunity really embraced her,” Much said. “Customer service was really on her mind continually. She always believed if you give them customer service they’ll always come back.” He said that her experience as a business owner and in government work helped with her decisions. Johnston’s decisions were often based on business logic, not something that was by the book. Her management style, meanwhile, was to let people do their work and only intercede when necessary. “Throughout my career, I had some excellent bosses as well as some not-so-good bosses and I learned as much, if not more, from the not-so-good bosses as to how not to be,” she said. “As the boss, I always kept an open door policy and gave employees as many tools as possible to do their job. If they had questions or problems with any task, they could always come to me, and if I didn’t know the answer I found out. “ She also never felt a task was too small. She was willing to answer the main line and respond to questions individually from all types of business people. The ripples could be felt across the state. Betsy Pennington, the owner of Outside In, said that Johnston’s WNET program helped her to keep her plant store running the last 18 years. “When she was in charge of that, it was extremely wonderful, really supportive,” Pennington said. “I remember sitting there just about in tears, and it was obvious to every one else that I was ready to hire my first employee.”

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While WNET has had a number of spin offs and its name has been just about forgotten, Pennington said the original group that began meeting nearly two decades ago is still offering support. Johnston plans to be giving more advice soon. She said she has plans to join SCORE — a group of mostly retired business owners who volunteer their advice for entrepeneurs — and could be involved with the district export council. “I would hope my lasting legacy was that I made a difference in some lives,” she said. Few would doubt she has. Reporter Jeff Windmueller: 4474005 or jeff.windmueller@helenair. com

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women in business Shooting a head JEFF WINDMUELLER Independent Record Few teenagers know what they want to be when they grow up. Many wander through their years after high school in the college ranks or work to pay the rent until something comes along to grab their attention. For Kaylin Ishak, there was little doubt what she wanted to do in the real world. In fact, she couldn’t wait to get a jump start. But as she’s been filling appointments and taking photos for the recent high school graduations, the 18-year-old entrepreneur and owner of Kaylin Ishak Photography has felt a little awkward. “I feel like I should be the one graduating and going to college with all my friends,” she said. Ishak sped up her high school career, jamming her final two years into one to graduate early and concentrate on her business. The artist, very much self-taught with exception of photography classes in high school, has certainly been busy since the days she was dressing up her friends for impromptu photo shoots in their middle school days. “My friends and I would always take pictures of each other for MySpace,” she said, explaining that the process often left her room a mess from

all the clothes and makeup they tried on. “Then, I started taking some senior pictures for some of my friends.” One or two senior photos led to more. Once word of mouth spread, there were baby pictures and weddings, sports photos and the occasional awards ceremony — she was hired to take photographs for the Small Business Administration’s annual banquet on June 2 — and, of course, graduations. “I was running my own business, taking eight classes and then after school I had to go to cheer practice,” she recalled of her busy schedule. “After cheer practice, I would go to take pictures.” At 16 years old, she had a full-time schedule. Her father, Mike Ishak, had always encouraged her to continue her aspirations, even sectioning off a corner of his old business, Elliot Transportation Company, for a studio. She had just two backdrops then — black and white — but it made it possible to work in the cold winter months. Graduation and birthday presents were cameras or lap tops to help her expand her style and learn new editing programs. After a while, however, Mike and Angie Ishak — Kaylin’s mother who also works part-time as a bookkeeper for

the studio — began encouraging her to take a break. “The first year and a half, until about this last September, I didn’t have days off,” she said. Things have been smoother since she left school and opened her new studio at 919 Euclid Avenue. While her mother works alongside her, the business is in Kaylin’s name for a reason. “We were partners in the beginning because she was too young, we couldn’t say she owned her own business,” Angie said. “I was on all of the paperwork with her. Now she’s 18, so it’s her business.” Angie spends her days in the office making appointments and keeping track of Kaylin’s schedule — particularly on the busy weeks when she might have a dozen or so appointments in just a few days. Still, it isn’t unusual for the 38-year-old to be confused for the artist when customers walk through the door. Some are even shocked to find out how young Kaylin is. It’s something the young businesswoman has to endure as she ages. She said some of her peers assume she’s simply a spoiled girl whose parents have given her everything in her business. Angie can guarantee that’s not so. Her daughter pays all

KAYLIN ISHAK, SELF-POTRAIT of her own bills, lives on her own and could probably manage the shop without her. “Sometimes they feed me when I come over,” Kaylin conceded with a laugh. Kaylin’s connections to the Capital City’s youth can be a boon and a bane. She attended both Capital High and Helena High, graduating from the latter, and her earliest business came from her association with her young customers and their parents. But, she tries to remain outside the divisions that often occur between teenage cliques and the drama that ensues. “That’s one of the reasons I graduated early,” she said. Her nickname among friends — “Mama K.K.”

—draws on her responsibility. She knows that her name represents a business, and she has been like a mother to many of her friends. Perhaps that’s why she’s been able to deal with the pressure of running her own business while still learning what it’s like to be an adult. If it ever becomes too much, she knows she still has plenty of time to move on to something new and has the support of her family. “This is what I’m doing presently,” she said. “You never know, I’ll be here for awhile.” Reporter Jeff Windmueller: 447-4005 or jeff.windmueller@ helenair.com

PIPSQUEAK continued from page 5

to get the word out about the store. The added expenses and slow start drained her capital, forcing her to apply for a second loan. Cook said that when she received her first loan she had asked for more money, but was advised to take a smaller amount to keep monthly payments lower. She would be able to come back and ask for more if she needed it later. However, when she asked a second time around, she was denied — even told to close. “You helped me get all this financing, there must be some other way than just closing the store,” she recalled saying. “I really wanted to make it work for the Helena community.” She and Kevin weren’t ready to give up. Instead, the woman who is always finding new ways to improve her business, began changing her plans. She cut down on employees, which meant less time with her kids, and cut nearly all forms of traditional advertising. “There were some bills that went unpaid each month, but we got through it,” she said. “We started grassroots advertising.” That meant reaching out to the public in new ways, “Guerrilla advertising” she likes to call it. She started off by creating an e-mail list, offering a coupon for signing up to hear about future deals, and a Facebook site. “In the three years we’ve been open, our marketing strategy has changed dramatically,” Cook said. “There’s a really big climate of change when it comes to social networking” “Three years ago, I didn’t think Facebook would be a viable tool for advertising. Now, I think you’d be missing out without Facebook.” Cook would also contact friends like Holly Hauskins, a neighbor and member of a MOPS group (Mothers of PreSchoolers), to ask what other mothers might need and to let them know about products in the store. “When she first started up and there would be a coveted used item, we would send out texts,” said Hauskins, who is also a regular consigner at the store. Even if one mother wasn’t looking for the particular item, they might know of

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another that could use it. When there were events downtown, Pipsqueak found ways to get families in the store. There are always toys to play with, and activities like face-painting at the Kids Springfest. When she could no longer afford employees, she held wine parties for friends who would be willing to help her with inventory at night. “We spent many, many evenings here laughing and working to put out more inventory,” Cook said. “I paid them in wine and gratitude (I hope) and although it isn’t as frequent, we continue to have our ‘wine and work’ nights at the Squeak.” Cook even expanded her store to include new items. When she read about a new business, “Nursing Nook,” in Missoula started up by registered nurse and lactation specialist Jennifer Stires, Cook immediately gave her a phone call. The result was a business deal that would allow Stires to sell her products and conduct classes in a rented room in the store. “The classes we offer are a big draw,” Stires said. “There’s a preparation for breastfeeding class — that generates the most interest — then from there it’s breast pumps and parts. “And then nursing bras, which is something in Helena that’s really hard to find.” Stires said Helena was even more receptive to her business than the Garden City and that she still receives an average of three to five phone calls per day for lactation consultation in Helena, even though she can’t always make it in town. Later, Kelli Eveland of Kel’s Collection also began renting space in the store to feature her line of maternity clothing. Though Cook receives a small commission on the items, it really is only enough to cover the costs of fees for credit card transactions. The addition of the new products, more importantly, helps complete the store so it provides everything a mother could want. “It’s a one-stop shop,” Newman said. All of the changes seem to have worked. Cook now has over 1,100 people signed up on the e-mail account (the amount was too large for her old Gmail address, so she made a new

Sarah Cook bags up clothing for a customer at her downtown location and thanks her with a warm smile. Eliza Wiley Independent Record

one through iContact), and sales rose roughly 17 percent from about $85,000 to $100,000 in 2010. What was once a store about to go under is staying afloat thanks in large part, Cook said, to the community of friends, family and mothers around her.

There’s a constant in the community of mothers. It’s a sense of camaraderie, a mutual care for those who have experienced the pains and pleasures of childbirth. “Mommies just want a community with other mommies to feel validated and not alone,” Hauskins said. “I think that’s neat about the store, we all know what those key items are and when we can get them at a cheaper price, it’s a blessing.” That’s why Cook made the decision to offer consignment instead of outright purchasing used items for her store. With the system in place, a person can hand over their child’s old clothing, books and toys to be sold by the store. The consigner does not immediately receive payment for the items, but instead waits until it is sold. Forty percent of the sale is placed on the consigner’s account, and they can either receive that money in a form of a check or for store credit. Some customers, like Hauskins, simply try to make enough from their own sales to purchase other items from

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the store. In order to receive that credit, they know their items first have to sell. That means it’s in their best interest to tell other mothers about it. As it turns out, there’s been no better form of advertising for Pipsqueak than word of mouth. “Shopping local doesn’t get any more real than supporting consignments stores because all of the money stays in the community since our suppliers are our neighbors,” Cook said. That’s why the store owner credits her customers and consigners the most with helping her business when it needed it the most. She said she also turned to other business leaders like Amy Barrett-Gilleran, owner of Lasso the Moon, and Paula Bonar, owner of Elements Consign & Design, for business advice and support. She’s doing the same for other businesses in the Helena community as the vice president for Downtown Helena Inc. What would she tell someone getting into a new business? “The hardest part for me was going from a written business plan to the reality of it,” she said. Always an important key is “revisiting it and figuring out what your business plan is. “It took a long time to get here. It didn’t happen when we first started.” Jeff Windmueller: 447-4005 or jeff. windmueller@helenair.com

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