Sunday, March 25, 2012 | PAGE 3E
an advertising supplement to the
the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area
spring 2012
sunday | march 25
Helena Eye Clinic
( 4 0 6 ) 4 43 - 4 0 4 0 3116 Saddle Drive South Helena Exit, next to the Sussex building BH-20192779
Thoreau once wrote, “The eye is the jewel of the body.” Like a precious jewel, a person’s eyesight must be taken care of and treasured. Helena Eye Clinic’s goal is to provide this care in its new and expanded facility. On February 1, Helena Eye Clinic moved to a new location at 3116 Saddle Drive. Though only less than a mile from its previous location, it is a world apart in terms of features and convenience. The clinic is located directly off the South Helena interchange. The doctors and staff of Helena Eye Clinic have been serving the community for seven years, and for the past three years, have worked to expand their level of care. Ophthalmologist, Dr. Craig Wilkerson, MD and optometrist, Dr. Chad Swanson, OD are Helena’s only dual-profession eye care team. This combination makes Helena Eye Clinic the most comprehensive eye care facility in the area. It provides detection, diagnosis, correction and treatment of vision conditions for all ages and for multiple levels of care. The clinic was able to design the clinic according to their expectations and goals. “We wanted the new clinic to stand out and be unique,” said Dr. Wilkerson. With help from experts both locally and around the country, their vision was brought to life. Upon first walking through the doors, patients are met with a relaxing atmosphere in the reception area that has comfortable chairs, local art work, two salt water reef tanks, light streaming through the windows and views of the surrounding mountains. There is even a special children’s area complete with a magic floor and a jelly fish aquarium. The sterile, cold environment one might expect to find in a doctor’s office doesn’t exist. Another advantage of the new facility is the expanded optical department. “We want Helena to consistently have the most extensive and exclusive lines of frames available and to offer those lines in a boutique-like setting that maintains affordability,” says Dr. Swanson. The Helena Eye Clinic now features brands like Gucci, Koali, Coach, Nike, Ray-Ban, Vera Wang, BCBG, Kate Spade and Jimmy Choo. They also have fun and fashionable frame options for kids and teens. The clinic even added a frames stylist to the staff to help make the right selection for a patient’s face, activities and personal style. The floor plan and expanded building design allows for more efficient patient interaction with pre-testing areas in one location. It creates a seamless patient flow process and allows for additional health care providers and specialists to work from this location in the future; an option not available in the previous building. What’s next on the horizon? A free-standing surgery center will be moving into the space directly below Helena Eye Clinic this fall. This will allow all of the clinic’s procedures, from glasses to surgery, to be done in one location. Dawn Lopach, clinic manager, explained that “our goal through this whole process has been to create an environment that made people feel good about staying in Helena for their health care.” Bricks and mortar are just a small part of the story. Helena Eye Clinic’s dedication and mission will always reside with its patient care. Dr. Wilkerson explained that being able to see the changes and improvements through his patient’s eyes and knowing he had a hand in that is very rewarding for him. “I never run out of opportunities to do that and I never get tired of it,” said Wilkerson. “I’m very lucky to do what I do.” — by Lacey Middlestead
NorthWestern Energy As a NorthWestern Energy customer, you expect and deserve top quality at a reasonable cost — in other words, great value. NorthWestern Energy has one of the most reliable electric and natural gas distribution systems in the country and we want to keep it that way. That’s why we created a multi-year project to aggressively replace aging infrastructure to prepare our network to support the next generation of new technology. Based out of the Helena NorthWestern Energy office, the Distribution System Infrastructure Project (DSIP) management team is planning the replacement of electric and natural gas lines throughout our Montana service territory. Dan Kuchtyn, Manager of Infrastructure Construction, has built a team of engineers specialized in planning the replacement of the electric and natural gas lines. The goal of DSIP is to maintain and invest in future reliability by restoring more capacity into the system through targeted proactive equipment replacements. NorthWestern Energy has determined that now is the time to launch this project so we can maintain reliability and safety, and over time, reduce the number of
power outages and hit gas lines in the state. NorthWestern Energy is fortunate in that it has the time to deal with aging infrastructure in the right way. At the same time, new technologies are emerging that promise to offer many benefits in the future. A modern, adaptable infrastructure will be a prerequisite for seizing those opportunities, and we have the obligation to
Big Sky Big Smiles At NorthWestern Energy, we help power the lifestyle folks love here in Montana. You’ll get the safe, reliable energy you need, along with energy efficiency programs, tips and rebates. www.northwesternenergy.com | (888) 467-2669 Join us on Facebook!
assure that our system is ready to accept new, proven and cost-effective technologies, as they become available to help support our customer needs and Montana’s economic foundation. This technical plan describes a thoughtful, measured approach that accelerates our distribution infrastructure management program over the next seven years. It is designed specifically to result in electric and natural gas distribution facilities that will meet the long term customer needs, while maintaining stable and competitive utility rates. Arriving at this balance involves both science and art — there are no easy formulas that can produce universally accepted solutions. In all cases, however, the application of science and art has been governed by sound engineering judgment and industry practices. The plan details can be found at www.northwesternenergy.com by searching on DSIP. The details of the document are to clearly explain the process and why we believe that the technical plan for the maintenance and investment of our electric and natural gas distribution facilities is the right thing to do, and now is the right time to do it.
PAGE 4E |
Sunday, March 25, 2012
an advertising supplement to the
the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area
spring 2012
Taco Del Sol With walls infused with vibrant shades of purple, turquoise and orange; easy-going tunes humming from the radio; and the aroma of black beans and carne asada in the air, you can only be at one place—Taco del Sol. For nearly eight years, Taco del Sol has provided the Helena community with a quick, casual meal at a great value within a lively atmosphere. Owner, Shalon Hastings, realized the restaurant would be a perfect fit for Helena while studying marketing and business at the University of Montana in Missoula. It’s been a success story ever since. While Taco del Sol has always been located on the Downtown Walking Mall, Hastings made the decision recently to relocate the restaurant a hop, skip and a jump away in the Placer building. The grand re-opening was held on February 22. The move came with numerous benefits. For starters, the restaurant has moved up to the ground level and is more visible to people passing by on the mall. Customers can also now bask in the abundant daylight streaming through the windows all around. For Hastings and the staff of Taco del Sol, the new space provided a more efficient and workable kitchen layout. Hastings admitted that she has received nothing but rave reviews of the new restaurant from customers. But she adds that it wouldn’t have been possible without her construction and design team. Hastings is very grateful for the work done by Paul Jenkins of Jenkins Construction, Skip Gee with One Way Electric, Steve Davis with Shedhorn Plumming and Christine Mills with Finstads Flooring. But while the location is slightly different, Taco del Sol’s the customer service and fresh Mexican food is as good as ever. “The staff is tremendous in customer service,” said Hastings. “They are dedicated to making sure the customer is getting what they are looking for.” The same veggie and fish tacos you crave and mission burritos you love wrapped in their signature tin foil are never in short supply. Hastings encourages everyone to check out Taco del Sol’s new location and enjoy their freshly made Mexican food at a value you can’t beat. — by Lacey Middlestead
in
BUSINESS for 26 years
sunday | march 25
Treat your family, friends, colleagues ~ and yourself to the delicious, fresh flavors of Helena’s
TaCo del SoL!
Located in the PLACER BUILDING on the Walking Mall
GREAT FOOD! GREAT VALUE! We are committed to providing you with just what you want at a great price.
Hours: Monday - Saturday: 11:00am - 8:00pm
Advertise in Business Newsmakers • Are you a new business? • Have you recently moved or expanded? • Have you added a new or exclusive product? With your scheduled advertisement you have the opportunity to have an exclusive story written about your exciting business news. To participate in this quarterly publication call 447-4003. 2012 Schedule June 17 September 23 December 16
406.443.3978 • TaCodelSoLhelena.com
NOW with Brokers First Real Estate
Christie Killeen Broker, GRI
801 North Last Chance Gulch 442-4644 www.bigskybikes.com
WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED! • BIKE RENTALS • FULL-SERVICE REPAIR SHOP • SELL ALL STYLES OF BICYCLES
Visit us today
Christie, comes from a long line of Helena natives. Including Gertie Richeson; founder of Gertie’s Drive Inn, Bob Richeson; former Helena Fire Chief, Gene Richeson; former owner of the Red Meadow Bar. Christie cut her teeth in real estate in the Seattle area. Earning her real estate associates license in 2003. Returning to Helena in 2005 and continuing her real estate career, she has been dedicated in growing her real estate business and establishing a network of repeat customers and clients. She wants her customers to “Experience real care and concern about their real estate needs”. She understands the importance and impact real estate transactions have on peoples’ lives. Christie earned her Brokers License in 2008, and then went deeper to earn her GRI designation in 2011. Education is very important to Christie and she plans to continue to grow in her knowledge by participating in the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) program. Christie invites you to call her with your real estate needs and feel confident that you have made the right choice. Christie graduated from Helena High School in 1980 & then attended Helena Vo-Tech for Accounting and Business classes. After moving to Washington State, Christie continued her Accounting/Business Management education at Edmonds Community College and Everett Community College. Christie’s philosophy is that there is no greater knowledge then the knowledge learned by doing what you love, and Christie loves real estate! Christie’s Professional Affiliations are: Member of Helena Association of Realtor (HAR), Member of National Association of Realtor (NAR), Member of Graduate Realty Institute (GRI). Christie’s hobbies include: volunteer for Lost and Foundation, volunteer for Family Promise of Helena, gardening, camping, water skiing and most important p to Christie is her family. y
“Experience Real Care & Concern About Your Real Estate Needs”
461-6463
Sunday, March 25, 2012 | PAGE 5E
an advertising supplement to the
the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area
spring 2012
sunday | march 25
Capital Collision Center As Bob Dylan wrote, “The times they are a changin.’ ” Capital Collision Center’s dedication to the collision repair industry is reflected in the shop’s highly trained staff, recent building addition and stateof-the art equipment. Having served Helena for over 35 years, Capital Collision is committed to providing top-quality collision repair to its customers. Bruce Halcro bought Capital Collision 13 years ago, but has been in the collision repair business for 34 years. He admits to being a car guy and says working in the automotive field was a natural fit. If there is one thing Halcro has learned over the years it is the importance of staying current with the industry’s technology through training. Making sure the technicians have the latest training and knowledge to repair today’s vehicles is a priority. That is why Capital is the only collision repair shop in town that is I-CAR Gold Class certified. This is one of the highest recognitions available to businesses in the collision repair industry. Each technician at Capital Collision is platinum certified, which is the highest classification they can get. Halcro also requires that his employees receive annual training. Captial takes pride in staying on top of their game and providing
the highest level of service possible. “Our employees do things right and don’t take shortcuts,” said Halcro. This past August, Capital Collision expanded into a newly acquired building directly west of them. This new building allows for not only more car storage and parking, but also added work space. This a shorter time between when a customer’s car is dropped off to when it’s ready to pick up. The additional space also allowed Capital to install a new state-of-the-art, drive-through paint booth. The booth is equipped with the technology to spray the new waterborne paints and has its own bake system. All the paint colors are mixed using a computerized colormixing system. This technology enables the technician to mix the precise formula to match the exact color of the customer’s car. The new paint system was installed to better replicate what is being used at the car factories and to comply with new environmental standards. Capital Collision also has the latest frame equipment, including a computerized measuring system. This allows the technician to receive a factory blueprint of the vehicle so it is perfectly repaired to pre-accident condition. They also have a water-cooled resistance spot welder to properly weld and repair the
high strength steels used in today’s vehicles. Capital Collision not only offers professional, skilled technicians, the latest technology and equipment, but they strive to make the repair process as pleasant and hassle-free as possible for its customers. Halcro admitted that after notifying a recent customer that his car was done earlier than expected, the staff was graciously thanked with several pizzas for lunch. And if you think of repair shops as dusty, dirty places, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness of Capital Collision’s shop — another noticeable feature that sets this shop apart. When getting your vehicle repaired, Halcro recommends choosing a shop you are comfortable with — and ask questions. Ask about the technician’s training, the shop equipment, and what will be needed to repair your vehicle. Halcro also encourages people to take a tour to see where their car will be fixed. “I love it!” said Halcro about showing people around his shop. He knows vehicles are a big investment and wants customers to feel comfortable with who is repairing it. Located on the west end of town on Euclid Avenue, Capital Collision is your one-stop shop for all your collision repair needs. — by Lacey Middlestead
1006 EUCLID AVENUE HELENA, MT 59601-2454 406.442.8611 capitalcollisionmt.com/
COLORECTAL CANCER. It has been estimated that 141,000 people will be diagnosed with
colorectal cancer in 2012, and an estimated 49,000 people will die from it. Medical experts believe colonoscopy screenings can prevent more than 60 percent of those deaths. Helena SurgiCenter has state of the art equipment and qualified experienced staff and physicians. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month.
Call to schedule your screening today with Dr. Galt or Dr. Harper 442-0099
Managed by physicians for patients.
BH-20193368
(406) 457-4200 2440 Winne Ave • Suite 100 Helena www.helenasurgicenter.com
PAGE 6E |
Sunday, March 25, 2012
an advertising supplement to the
the ir’s quarterly look at new and growing businesses in the Helena area
spring 2012
sunday | march 25
Alpine Animal Clinic
Come see the beautiful new expansion at Alpine Animal Clinic!
1801 Cedar Street, Helena
(406) 449-7155
alpineanimalclinic.com
We have added many NEW services and features to serve our hospital and surgery patients like never before.
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 - 6:00 Saturday 9:00 - Noon
Fantastic New Dog and Cat boarding: Come see our amazing new boarding facility! A gorgeous new indoor exercise area for the dogs is now offered in addition to the outside grassy yard with trees, and we have greatly increased the number of available boarding rooms due to popular demand. The new indoor exercise yard is surrounded by individual private rooms for the dogs, complete with central music created specifically for dogs. Each room boasts glass doors with raised beds and individualized
attention for each dog. Play sessions with ropes, balls, or frisbees are offered, or you can even request “play dates” and group play for your dog while you’re gone. In addition to one-on-one daily play sessions, your dog will get brushed each day and cookies are always a great way to cap off a busy day with friends. Due to high demand, early reservations are recommended to ensure availability
Specialty Cat Boarding: Located well away from any areas occupied by dogs, is a private, quiet cat boarding room. Each cat is housed in a private and luxurious 2-level glass condo. Cat boarding has a special one-way mirror in to a private aviary housing finches
so the cats can be entertained while you’re away. While the birds enjoy a large enclosure, complete with live plantings, they are completely unaware of the viewers on the other side of the mirror. This provides endless entertainment for
boarding cats and makes their stay an enjoyable one, while they, too, get brushed daily and enjoy fresh catnip while you’re away.
New Rehabilitation Therapy Facility Alpine Animal Clinic has built a new state-of-the-a state-of-the-art Canine Rehabilitation Therapy Center, re complete with Water Treadmill, to help your dog recover from injury, surgery, muscle loss, and nerve dysfunction, or to get conditioned for hunting season, for weight weigh loss, for arthritis, or for simple exercise and playtime. accurately and specifically target the needs The Water Treadmill is used to accu of your dog by pinpointing the dept depth of water and thereby the amount of weight-bearing, resistance, and stren strength training as your pet recovers. Simple floating and swimming in a pool does not allow for changes in your pet’s condition by increasing increasin resistance and ability to bear weight gradually gradually, but simply floats them passively in a life jjacket. A water treadmill allows passive flotation, too, for any size patient, but has tthe great advantage of allowing careful and gradual return to weight-bearing and resistance to effectively increase muscle tone, coordination, and condition. This improves recovery and strength far beyond a simple swimming pool. Dr. Michelle Richardson, Helena’s only Veterinarian Certified in Canine Rehabilitation, is also Certified in Veterinary Acupuncture. Acupuncture targets specific conditions such as nerve and muscle degeneration and neuromuscular pain. Therapeutic massage, conditioning, strength training, and rehabilitation therapy can help your dog regain function and strength faster and with better results. Combine this with acupuncture and you’ll find resources at Alpine Animal Clinic that are truly outstanding and exceptional.
Professional Grooming: You can schedule your pet to be professionally groo groomed while you wait and watch through the larg large windows in to our new grooming facility, or tthey can scheduled to be dropped off while you’re busy around town. They can even be
ile they’re boarding! groomed by appointment while Alpine continues to offer, by appointment, soft-paw nail cover application for catss that scratch and lion on to regular drop-in shaves for cats, too, in addition nail trims for dogs.
Pick-Up and Delivery Service:
Now you can have your pet picked up, dropped off, or both with delivery service from Alpine Animal Clinic! For a small fee, we can pick up your pet in the morning for any type of service at our clinic, grooming, or boarding facilities and bring them back to you in the late afternoon. Service is available within the immediate Helena area and by reservation only. Watch for the Alpine Animal Clinic delivery van... we’re happy to make your day easier by transporting your pet for you.
EMERGENCIES 24 HOURS | 449-7155 Exceptional, Affordable, Care