http://www.bismarckmandan.com/Bismarck Mandan Chamber Newshttp://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rssBismarck Mandan Chamberen http://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=154
The Chamber announces the following students selected to participate in the 2010- 11 LBM program:
Barb Bakken, American Bank Center
Lori Ledahl, Aetna
Karla Buzick, Bismarck State College
Shelle Michaels, Rasmussen College
Blaze Culliton, Agency MABU
Kari Reichert, NISC
Jessica Gietzen, NISC
TJ Rooney, Starion Financial
Kevin Johnson, Advanced Business Methods
Misty Staiger, Bis-Man Transit
Kelly Klemisch, Montana Dakota Utilities
Louie Weigel, NISC
Steven Kilde, Bismarck Police Department
Jason Westbrock, Barr Engineering
Kay LaCoe, Lignite Energy Council

The program kicks off with orientation on Sept. 15, followed by issue days covering natural resources, local issues, arts and leisure, human services, law, economic development, agriculture, education, health, legislative affairs, political involvement, media, faith, ethics and values. The class will celebrate completion of the program with a graduation on March 30, 2011.

The Chamber commends the program's sponsors: Presenting Sponsor - Aetna; Gold Sponsor - MDU Resources Group; and Program Sponsors - Tesoro Mandan Refinery, Cross Country Courier, Basin Electric Power Cooperative and Bartlett & West, Inc.
]]>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=152Foundation Seeks to Raise $50k from Community

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber Foundation (Foundation) announced today that it will assist the city of Bismarck in pursuing a Small Community Air Service Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). If received, this $500,000 grant could be utilized to attract additional air service to the community. To assist the city, the Foundation is seeking to raise $50,000 in private sector funds to support the application.

"Air service to the community is essential," said Todd Steinwand, President of the Foundation Board of Directors. "From our residents wanting to travel to new locations to economic development, air service is a key component to our transportation infrastructure. As the city with the lowest unemployment rate in the nation and one of the few weathering the national economic storm, it seems now is our opportunity to seek additional air service."

Letters of support are also being sought for this project. "Community support is key to receiving the grant and letters of support will make it clear to the granting committee how deserving our community is to receive this support," said Steinwand.

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber Foundation was formed in 2008 to assist the community in pursuing projects that enhance the overall quality of life and support economic development. The Foundation is an IRS 501(C)3 organization making contributions tax deductible.

"The Foundation has assisted projects such as Junior Achievement and the USS North Dakota," said Steinwand. "However, this is the first large scale project the Foundation has undertaken in connection with the City. Our hope is this creates a new model for public-private interaction for the mutual benefit of everyone in the region."

The Foundation is accepting pledges for contributions. Over the next few weeks, the goal is to raise the needed $50,000 in support of the city of Bismarck's application to the FAA. Pledges will come due in mid-2011, if the airport is successful in attaining the grant. If residents are interested in donating, they can do so by calling (701)223-5660.
]]>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=153
The day concluded with a demonstration put on by Olympic shooter Sean McLelland and NRA All-American Camden Clayton. The sharp shooters shared tips and techniques for hunting and breaking clays.



The Chamber thanks all shooters and the following event sponsors that made the day possible.

Long Range Sponsors
HIT
Acme
BEK
Rainbow Gas

Rapid Fire Sponsors
Brock White
Strata
Petro-Hunt, LLC
City Air Mechanical
Gilchrist & Fettis Financial
North American Coal Corp.

Pigeon Sponsors
Starion Financial
Mor-Gran-Sou Electric
Odney
State Bank & Trust
Liberty Business Systems
Advanced Business Methods
McQuade Distributing Co. Inc.

Lunch Sponsors
Weizenegger-Engel Ins/Federated Ins' Co.
Prairie Rose Construction Supply
]]>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=151
Click here to see the latest local economic statistics.]]>Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=150
Marci Narum, from KXMB CBS-12, was the event's emcee and did a wonderful job, as usual. Chaplain Dan Sweeney from the Bismarck Law Enforcement Chaplaincy opened the event with a prayer and Chamber President Kelvin Hullet introduced Gov. John Hoeven, who welcomed the attendees. Chairwoman Melissa Pinks helped to thank the audience and the committees involved in this event.

Cindy Sanford, past-chair of the Chamber's Business Education Partnership Committee, recognized this year's three Outstanding Teachers of the Year: Sister Kathleen Angel from the University of Mary, Jo Ann Miller from Bismarck High School and Vickie Pomonis from Roosevelt Elementary. Sanford also introduced several members of the Student Chamber of Commerce who were in attendance at the lunch.

Three Bismarck-Mandan businesses qualified for the Mike Fink Award for Steady Growth & Profitability awards this year. They were Tricia Arenz from Once Upon a Child, Todd and Candace Muggerud from KAT Communications and Derwin Mann from Mann Signs.

The New Entrepreneur of the Year award was presented to Tricia Arenz from Once Upon a Child.

One of the Chamber's highest honors is the Bismarck-Mandan Small Business Person of the Year award. To qualify for this award, an individual must show staying power through history. The also must show an ability to grow the number of employees at their business. The Small Business Person of the Year was awarded to Shannon Gangl from Seven Seas Hotel & Waterpark. Accepting the award on Gangl's behalf was Karen Summers, company manager. The other wonderful nominees included Mark Peterson from WESTCON Industries, Bob and Lynn Gustafson from the Medicine Shoppe and Justin Theel from Cedric Theel Toyota Scion.

Last, but not least, the Granite Award was presented. The Granite Award is sponsored by Basin Electric and MDU Resources and recognizes a business that has operated in the Bismarck-Mandan area for at least 50 years and has demonstrated a commitment to the community. This year's Granite Award was presented to Northern Improvement Company.

A special thank you to the sponsors of this year's event. Platinum Sponsors: MDU Resources and Basin Electric. Gold Sponsors: American Bank Center, Miller Insulation Co., Inc., BNC National Bank and Dr. Everett E. Heringer, D.D.S. Silver Sponsors: H. A. Thompson & Sons, Inc. and Cross Country Courier. The video sponsor was KAT Communications. The award sponsor was the Bismarck Tribune. Table Sponsors included: Midcontinent Communications, Dakota Community Bank, Tesoro Mandan Refinery, Capital Credit Union, Bank of North Dakota, Northwest Contracting, Starion Financial, Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson, Eide Bailly, LLP, University of Mary, Bismarck Cancer Center, Wells Fargo Bank, Butcher Block Meats, Bartlett & West, Inc., Missouri Valley Petroleum, Ameripride Linen & Apparel Services, Eide Ford Mercury-Lincoln, Inc, Great River Energy and KXMB CBS12.

A very special thank you goes out to Basin Electric for their help on the video, along with KXMB CBS12, Dianna Kindseth for continuing to help with the qualifying businesses for the awards, and Marci Narum for continuing to shine as our wonderful emcee for the event.

Click here to view photos from the event.

Click here to watch the coverage on KXMB.


]]>Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=149
The proposal centers on a "Made in Mandan" theme tied to an array of Mandan's positive and inherent attributes, both tangible and abstract. The image campaign is intended to improve Mandan's community pride and external image in support of the broader community objectives.

Recommended key messages and primary purposes are as follows:

•Opportunity - Made in Mandan (Business Recruitment)
•Community - Made in Mandan (Residential Recruitment and Retention)
•Achievement - Made in Mandan (Above purposes with emphasis on quality public education system)
•Adventure - Made in Mandan (Tourist and Visitor Attraction)

The proposal points out the versatility of the Made in Mandan theme, noting that it could be used by both public and private entities in the community. For example:

•A tourist-oriented business like Huff Hills might use the logo in conjunction with the "Adventure" message on its own advertising or partner in a state tourism directory ad.
•Businesses wishing to congratulate a state champion speech, baseball or basketball team might put their business card ad on a newspaper spread with a photo and headline such as "Champions - Made in Mandan."
The detailed proposals offers many other ideas for community attributes that civic organizations, businesses, event coordinators and other potential participants could feature in public information and advertising activities.

The Committee does not intend for the theme and logo to replace any entity or organization's existing logo and motto, but rather to give public entities and community organizations a marketing theme around which to unite.

Formal Adoption Requested
The City Commission is being asked to consider the proposed theme, logo, key messages, marketing plan and a request for a 25 percent cost-share, amounting to $11,250. The funding source would be sales tax dollars allocated to the Business Development Department budget for 2010 and for consideration within the 2011 budgeting process.

The City Commission moved to table the request to adopt, implement and fund the marketing strategy. The Commission requested that the committee conduct research on the feasibility of trade marking the proposed logo, develop usage standards, and staff will examine budgets to determine if it can be implemented without any bottom line increase.

The LPI Committee is tentatively scheduled to present the marketing theme proposal to the Mandan Park Board on Aug. 9 and to the Mandan School Board on Aug. 16. In some instances, the proposal could allow entities to use funds already allocated toward marketing or public information activities to be pooled for a greater impact.

Use the links below to download the LPI Committee's presentation to the City Commission as well as the detailed proposal.

Presentation on Community Marketing Theme Proposal
Marketing Theme Strategy

Mandan Tomorrow is a strategic vision plan co-sponsored by the City of Mandan, Mandan School Board, Mandan Park District and the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce. The goal of this joint effort is to create a unified vision for the community and to prompt public/private sector cooperation in striving toward the identified objectives. For additional information visit www.mandantomorrow.com.]]>Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=148Annual Sporting Clays event will feature Olympic shooter and NRA All-American

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) is aiming to attract approximately 100 marksmen and women for its annual Celebrity Sporting Clays Shootout. Shots will be fired on Friday, Aug. 20 at Capital City Sporting Clays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This year's event features Olympic shooter Sean McLelland and NRA All-American Camden Clayton. McLelland is returning to Bismarck-Mandan after he wowed participants with his smooth technique and sure-fire aim a year ago.

The Celebrity Sporting Clays Shootout is open for registration. The fee is $75 for Chamber members ($100 for non-members) and includes shells and lunch. Visit www.bismarckmandan.com/events or call 223-5660.

The Chamber thanks the following event sponsors. Long Range Sponsors: HIT, Inc., Acme Electric, BEK Business Solutions and Rainbow Gas Company; Rapid Fire Sponsors: Brock White Company, Strata Corporation, City Air Mechanical, Inc., Petro-Hunt, L.L.C., Gilchrist & Fettig Financial and North American Coal Corp.; Lunch Sponsors: Weizenegger-Engel Ins./Federated Ins. Co's and Prairie Rose Const. Supply; and Pigeon Sponsors: Advanced Business Methods, Starion Financial, McQuade Distributing Co., Inc., Odney, MorGranSou Electric and State Bank & Trust.
]]>Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=147
Eden Prairie, Minn. took top honors and three North Dakota cities made the list. They include Bismarck, which was ranked 74, Fargo and Grand Forks at 86 and 97 respectively.

Click here to real the full report.]]>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=146Announcing American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 "B2B" Forum

Contractors, subcontractors, business owners, ARRA-funded state and local contracts/grant recipients and job seekers interested in business opportunities are encouraged to attend the Business to Business Forum on July 28, 2010 at the Jack Barden Center, UTTC Campus.

The B2B Forum will link minority businesses with larger firms and specifically ARRA recipients in an effort to expand the capacity of North Dakota and South Dakota based firms. The event also will enhance the ability of business ventures to successfully compete. In the past two forums, attention was focused on exploring mentor-protégé and joint-venture opportunities and its partners will focus on linking Minority Business Enterprises to the following industries:

- Construction
- Construction Suppliers
- Professional Services

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) opportunities are winding down and the main purpose of this B2B Forum is bring together those individuals interested in networking, information gathering, identify opportunities and discuss challenges.

Organizers are inviting an expert to discuss the key healthcare reform laws and how these new laws are going to impact small businesses. They also are inviting a Federal IRS Agent to discuss Native American issues in regards to taxation of revenues on Native American reservations in addition to speakers from the Federal, State and Tribal departments of Commerce, Transportation and the Aberdeen Area.

For more information contact Janet Thomas, UTTC,
701-255-3285 ext. 1870, jthomas@uttc.edu or visit www.uttc.edu.

]]>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=145Mandan's Art in the Park will be open an extra day during the Mandan Rodeo Days Celebration

More than 30,000 people are expected to make their way to Mandan over the Fourth of July weekend to attend the Mandan Rodeo and accompanying activities. One popular attraction is the Art in the Park Festival.

In response to record numbers of local and out-of-state visitors, event organizers have opted to add an additional day.

"Attendance at Art in the Park is absolutely phenomenal," says event volunteer Susie Kocourek. "In response to the record attendance, the committee has decided to give the public more of what they want and that not only means more vendors than ever but an extra day to shop."

Art in the Park opens at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 2. More than 150 art and craft vendors and 33 food vendors will offer handmade goods through nine that evening. The festival continues from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 3 with a Doll and Pet Parade commencing at 6 p.m. Sunday, July 4 is the final day and vendors will be open from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m.

"Art in the Park has grown from a small show to promote local arts and crafts to a much-anticipated family affair," Kocourek said. "Live entertainment and the parade really round out the festival."

Vendors will stretch across the south side of Main Street in Mandan from Dykshoorn Park to Papa Murphy's. Additional information on all Rodeo Days events may be found online at www.mandanrodeo.com or by calling the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce at 223-5660.

]]>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=144
The following employers (listed alphabetically) exemplify what it takes to attract and retain young professionals in today's economy. The Young Professionals Network would like to thank, congratulate, and recognize them for their achievements.

Aetna, Bismarck State College, Coventry Health Care, HIT, Inc., Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson, Medcenter One, NDDOT, NISC, Odney, and Ressler Chevrolet Inc.

To be eligible, the business must employ young professionals, those under age 40. All entries were anonymously evaluated. The criteria measured against each employer included:

Innovation - Active development and execution of strategies that advance the employment of young professionals in the Bismarck-Mandan community.

Benefits - Quality and type of benefits offered to employees.

Inclusion - Active development and execution of strategies that result in the inclusion of young professionals in the workplace.

A selection committee comprised of six individuals from diverse backgrounds reviewed the applications and collaborated to select this year's list of Top 10 Places to Work in Bismarck-Mandan.

]]>Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=143Committee members will publicize progress on the Mandan strategic plan on July 21

The public is invited to attend the Mandan Tomorrow Mid-Year Update on Wednesday, July 21 starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Mandan Fire Station on Collins Avenue. Committee chairpersons will present progress made on the Mandan Tomorrow strategic plan and detail upcoming projects.

"We're committed to 'making things happen' in Mandan, and this update will showcase the obvious and not so observable changes that the committees have made to move Mandan forward," said Chamber President Kelvin Hullet.

Representing each of the four strategic plan initiatives, which include Leadership, Pride & Image; Economic Opportunity & Prosperity; Quality Places & Destinations; and Education & Workforce, the chairpersons will lead a discussion about their respective projects, encourage participant feedback and outline their committee's next steps.

"I really encourage members of the Mandan community to attend Wednesday's event," said Chairwoman Kirsten Baesler. "I'm confident that the community will be proud of the work that volunteers are doing to make things happen in Mandan."

Mandan Tomorrow is the result of a joint effort between private businesses and public entities to create a community vision plan. The project began in early 2009 and included community polls, surveys and focus groups to determine the direction residents want their city to take. The project has now moved into the action phase of implementation.

The Mandan Tomorrow strategic plan and other vision plan documents are available online at www.mandantomorrow.com.

]]>Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=142
Employers who hire unemployed workers this year (after Feb. 3, 2010 and before Jan. 1, 2011) may qualify for a 6.2-percent payroll tax incentive, in effect exempting them from their share of Social Security taxes on wages paid to these workers after March 18, 2010. This reduced tax withholding will have no effect on the employee's future Social Security benefits, and employers would still need to withhold the employee's 6.2-percent share of Social Security taxes, as well as income taxes. The employer and employee's shares of Medicare taxes would also still apply to these wages.

In addition, for each worker retained for at least a year, businesses may claim an additional general business tax credit, up to $1,000 per worker, when they file their 2011 income tax returns.

"These tax breaks offer a much-needed boost to employers willing to expand their payrolls, and businesses and nonprofits should keep these benefits in mind as they plan for the year ahead," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman.

The two tax benefits are especially helpful to employers who are adding positions to their payrolls. New hires filling existing positions also qualify but only if the workers they are replacing left voluntarily or for cause. Family members and other relatives do not qualify.

In addition, the new law requires that the employer get a statement from each eligible new hire certifying that he or she was unemployed during the 60 days before beginning work or, alternatively, worked no more than 40 hours for anyone during the 60-day period. The IRS is currently developing a form employees can use to make the required statement.

Businesses, agricultural employers, tax-exempt organizations and public colleges and universities all qualify to claim the payroll tax benefit for eligible newly-hired employees. Household employers cannot claim this new tax benefit.

Employers claim the payroll tax benefit on the federal employment tax return they file, usually quarterly, with the IRS. Eligible employers will be able to claim the new tax incentive on their revised employment tax form for the second quarter of 2010. Revised forms and further details on these two new tax provisions will be posted on IRS.gov during the next few weeks.

See HIRE Act: Questions and Answers for Employers
]]>Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=141
The Granite Award is presented to a local business that has been a stable force within the community for the past 50 years. "Northern Improvement Company has been part of Bismarck-Mandan for 75 years" explained Kelvin Hullet, president of the Chamber. "Being able to not simply recognize great businesses within our community but highlight those that have given back to the community makes giving this award an honor."

NIC's strong commitment to the community, as well as its ability to become a sustainable and solvent business within the community, is what qualifies this fine institution for the award. Their innovation and philosophy of "there is no job we can't do and there is always a better way to do it" gives NIC their solid past and the ability to continue to grow and change for the future.

"We are very excited and honored to receive this prestigious award," said Molly Barnes, Assistant Vice President and Assistant Equipment Manager in NIC's Bismarck office. "The Bismarck-Mandan area has been a great community in which to live and work.

"Northern Improvement has been involved in the business community, as well as the community at large. These are the pivotal reasons for their receiving this honor," said Melissa Pinks, chair of the Excellence in Business Committee at the Chamber.

NIC is a leader in the construction industry, expanding into various types of construction throughout the years. They have also continued to build off their base philosophy and pioneering innovative ways of working, such as the use of continuous flow drum dryers in asphalt paving and the "Plow Train" which allows waterline pipe to be plowed at a depth of seven feet or more.
"The list of community involvement projects NIC submitted was substantial," said Pinks. "This company is involved in everything from United Way to local education to the Chamber and the Bismarck-Mandan Development Association and many more."

The Granite Award will be presented to Northern Improvement Company on August 12, 2010, during Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan, an annual event hosted by the Chamber. This event recognizes local businesses and business leaders for their achievements. Tickets to the event are available at www.bismarckmandan.com/events or by calling 223.5660.
]]>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=139Showcasing the best in early aviation

The dazzling aircraft and the dashing men and women of the era dubbed "The Golden Age of Aviation" will be in Bismarck this summer, as the American Barnstormers Tour travels through the Western Great Plains on their seven-city biannual tour from June 17 through July 5, 2010. The 2010 American Barnstormers Tour displays as many as 20 meticulously restored vintage aircraft from the 1920s and 1930s in an exceptional collection of airplanes and aviators. Admission is free and these rare aircraft can be seen at the Bismarck Airport from June 27-29.

Spectators can even experience the thrill of open cockpit flight for themselves and go barnstorming in a beautifully restored Travel Air, New Standard, or Stearman vintage biplane. Biplane flights will be available daily weather permitting. All Barnstormers will participate in recreating the era with period costumes, aircraft signage, historical information, and vintage props.

"These aren't airplanes, they're Time Machines" said tour organizer Clay Adams. "Our tour gives people from all over the country the chance to travel back in time and experience the same sights, sounds, and excitement they would have felt some 80 years ago as they looked out across the fields and saw the Barnstormers on the horizon."

The period between the end of World War I and the United States' entry into World War II is remembered as "The Golden Age of Aviation," and it truly was. Barnstorming tours, trophy races, and record-setting flights all captured the public's attention as they raced to see the daring flocks of birdman, and take their first flight in an open cockpit airplane.

Each afternoon (weather permitting) the aircraft will take to the sky for the "Barnstormers Parade of Flight" with master of ceremonies, EAA Radio on-air personality, Jeff Montgomery. Jeff will entertain the crowd with his unique announcing style while they hear tall tales of barnstorming and learn the history of each biplane as the pilots parade overhead.

The tour aircraft will be on display daily from approximately 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (weather permitting). Biplane rides in a Travel Air or New Standard are available for $60.00 per passenger, no reservations. "Hands-on" flights in the Stearman are available for $200.00 and reservations are accepted. For more information, visit the American Barnstormers web site at www.americanbarnstormerstour.com.

Junior Achievement will be serving beverages and treats. Famous Dave's will be serving up their award winning Bar-B-Que.

]]>Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=138Chamber encourages businesses to participate in "Power Hour"

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) is encouraging employers across the community to stagger their employees to leave between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on June 8 to encourage voting.

"The primary election in June is critical for the community. It is with this election that we decide who will be spending our local tax dollars as well as how Bismarck-Mandan will be poised for the future," said Kelvin Hullet, president of the Chamber. "By finding avenues to encourage citizens to learn more and to cast their vote, we are ensuring the future of Bismarck and Mandan."

This event, dubbed the "Business Power Hour" is designed to encourage participation in the process and increase the number of people going to the polls. In the 2008 primary election, 8694 ballots were cast in Burleigh County, a decrease from the 13,882 ballots cast in 2006. Similarly, results can be seen in Morton County, where only 3536 ballots were cast in 2008 and 4732 in 2006.

As an added incentive, employees are encouraged to bring their "I have voted" sticker to work with them the next day. All employers that participate in the "Business Power Hour" will be entered to win a set of four tickets to a Chamber Dinner on the Plaza in 2010. It is the responsibility of each business to contact the Chamber about participation. The drawing will take place on June 11.

"Voting is the way our forefathers gave us a voice in our community. It is our civic duty to participate," said Hullet.

The Chamber has hosted candidate forums, a candidate meet and greet, and published responses from candidates to simple platform questions. All this can be found at www.bismarckmandan.com/news/election. ]]>Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=140
The video will enable those who cannot attend the viewing to feel part of the event honoring the former commander in chief of the North Dakota National Guard. Furthermore, it will document for historical purposes the North Dakota Guard's involvement in the public viewing; it will be the first time in the four-year history of the Guard's Military Funeral Honors team that it has stood guard over a former head of state during a public memorial viewing.

The video stream will be available from 10:45 a.m. tomorrow, when the processional arrives at the Capitol, until 11:45 a.m. To view the stream, go to www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil/news/videos/Pages/default.aspx. There also will be a link from the Guard's home page, www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil.

WHAT: Public viewing of former N.D. Gov. Arthur Link

WHERE: Streamed live from the Capitol to www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil/news/videos/Pages/default.aspx

WHEN: 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Friday, June 4, 2010

]]>Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=136
Using the theme of "Still Serving," retired military members will fulfill key roles Monday, including keynote speaker retired Maj. Gen. C. Emerson Murry, former North Dakota adjutant general (1975-84). Retired Brig. Gen. Robert Udland, former North Dakota National Guard assistant adjutant general - Army (2005-08) will emcee the event. Chaplain (Maj.) William Rushford, who retired from the North Dakota National Guard, will offer the opening prayer while retired Col. Curtis Juhala, U.S. Army Reserve, will sign the national anthem.

Just four minutes after the ceremony begins, a B-52 Stratofortress from the Minot Air Force Base will fly over the cemetery. It will be followed by remarks from Gov. John Hoeven, Sen. Kent Conrad, Congressman Earl Pomeroy and Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, adjutant general for the North Dakota National Guard.

Other highlights include Taps in Echo played by Century High School students Dillon Parker and Matthew Gerenz, and ceremonial rifle and cannon volleys fired in honor of military heroes by American Legion Post 40, VFW Post 707 and the North Dakota Army National Guard Ceremonial Platoon.

Local Veterans' organizations - including the 17th U.S. Infantry, Company H (Fort Lincoln), the U.S. Army Reserve color guard from Bismarck and the North Dakota Honor Platoon - will post colors. Additionally, several hundred motorcyclists from the North Dakota Patriot Guard, Second Brigade Motorcycle Club, The Vietnam Vets Motorcycle Club and the Freedom Riders will ride into the cemetery carrying patriotic colors in honor of the fallen, prisoners of war and those who went missing in action. The Bismarck Mounted Police will carry colors and have a caparisoned riderless horse with boots reversed in the stirrups to symbolize a fallen warrior that will no longer ride into battle.

Participants should arrive early due to anticipated crowds. Lawn chairs are encouraged due to limited seating. Shuttle vans will be available to help transport people from parking areas to the cemetery. ]]>Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=137
Michael Ziesch, Research Analyst for Job Service stated, "April rates are always considerably lower than March in North Dakota as the month benefits from the usual start of construction projects. The between month change is normal in size."

The nation's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 9.9 percent for the month. This is 1.0 percentage point above the same month a year ago (8.9 percent) and 0.2 percentage points above prior month (9.7 percent). The seasonally adjusted rate for North Dakota was 3.8 percent in April, also 0.2 percentage points less than prior month (4.0 percent), and 0.6 percentage points below last year (4.4 percent). The seasonal adjustment process utilizes a statistical adjustment to accommodate predictable fluctuations between months; such as length of daylight and typical weather. Seasonal adjustment allows for comparison between all months of a year.




Notes:
1. The unemployment rate is the percentage of people actively seeking work compared to those in the labor force (employed plus unemployed).
2. Data are subject to revision.
3. These statistics, produced by the JSND Labor Market Information Center, utilize standard methodology developed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as a requirement for use by all states.
4. County and substate areas will be posted on 5-26-2010 to the JSND Labor Market Information website: http://www.ndworkforceintelligence.com]]>Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=135
The report, titled "Enterprising States: Creating Jobs, Economic Development and Prosperity in Challenging Times," combines metrics for each economic development policy area to identify the top overall growth performer.

The study states that, "While North Dakota's low unemployment and recession resistance is often attributed to healthy agriculture and energy sectors, its construction and manufacturing sectors are relatively healthy and the state has seen 42 percent job growth in professional and technical services and 36 percent in management of companies since 2002. North Dakota is the top job performer since the 2007 peak and is fifth since 2000."

North Dakota ranked first in growth of gross state product per job; second in gross state product growth; and third in per capita income growth.

The study used the following timeframes for ranking the states:

· Job growth rate between 2000 and 2007.
· Gross State Product (GSP) measures: real GSP growth since 2000, GSP per job 2008, growth in GSP per job 2000-2008.
· Income: per capita personal income growth 2000-2009 and median four person family income adjusted for cost of living, 2009.

"We have taken an aggressive approach to economic development over the past 10 years with a strategic plan that built on our strengths, diversified our economy and worked to create one of the best business climates in the nation," said Gov. John Hoeven. "We have cut taxes for our hard-working citizens and businesses. By partnering with the private sector and investing in research and development, we set the stage for North Dakotans to use their natural ingenuity and hard work to lift our state up to a whole new level."

"This report is more evidence that our efforts are getting results," said Shane Goettle, commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce. "The most important indicators, however, are that North Dakotans are working, their wages are increasing and our population is growing."

The study also states that recent investments in research and development infrastructure are beginning to pay off for North Dakota which is the fastest growing state in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics job creation.

According to the report, "The message of Enterprising States is that the 50 ‘little Republics' matter. State policies matter. Governors, state legislators, and local officials matter. Although the Federal government has been driving stabilization policy during the recent recession, it is the states [and territories] that will lead a crucial new growth strategy in the next decade."

The report focuses on proactive state policies and best practices with proven impact. It also identifies top-performing states in five specific policy areas:

· Entrepreneurship and Innovation
· Exports
· Infrastructure
· Workforce Development and Training
· Taxes and Regulation

In addition to being named the top overall growth performer, North Dakota was ranked number five in the area of taxes and regulation.

The complete report is available online at http://ncf.uschamber.com/enterprising-states/.
]]>Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=134Former 2004 presidential candidate is a widely recognized renewable energy advocate

Sen. Dorgan announced today that Gen. Wesley Clark, one of the leading executives in renewable energy, has been added as a featured speaker at the upcoming 2010 Renewable Energy Action Summit.

Clark is the co-chairman of Growth Energy and chairman of Solar Energy Squared, and he is a member of the Clinton Global Initiative's Energy and Climate Change Advisory Board. He also is a four-star U.S. Army general who previously led a peacekeeping force that helped to prevent ethnic cleansing in Albania. Clark ran for U.S. president in 2004.

"General Clark is a well-known figure throughout the world and is a leader in America's renewable energy industry," Dorgan said. "His participation is a very exciting addition to this event, and I'm pleased he'll be a part of the conversation about how we drive North Dakota's renewable energy industry into the future."

Energy industry stakeholders, elected officials and educators from around the region will gather on June 14 at Bismarck State College for the 2010 Renewable Energy Action Summit to discuss North Dakota's role in America's renewable energy future. The summit will emphasize the importance of reducing America's dependence on foreign oil, increasing energy diversity, expanding job creation and be an opportunity to showcase the latest innovations in energy development.

Dorgan previously announced that Dr. Kristina Johnson, the U.S. under secretary of energy at the Department of Energy (DOE), will also be a keynote speaker. Dr. Johnson plays a critical role in managing the nation's renewable energy programs as a part of her duties at the DOE.

The 2010 Renewable Energy Action Summit is open to the public. To register, visit http://www.bismarckstate.edu/energysummit, e-mail BSC.CETI@bsc.nodak.edu or call 1-877-846-9387. The cost is only $35. ]]>Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=132
The Chaplaincy was founded in 1980 by Rev. George Walker. Chaplain Walker served until his untimely death in 1999. In its infancy the Chaplaincy served only the Bismarck Police Department. Soon, however, the Burleigh County Sheriff became involved with the program. Over the years the Chaplaincy has grown to serve also the Bismarck Fire Department, the N.D. State Highway Patrol, the Bismarck/Burleigh County Emergency Management and Combined Communications Center. The Chaplaincy is also instrumental in training chaplains around the state to serve their own emergency services departments.

Today the Chaplaincy is headed by Senior Chaplain Dan Sweeney and there are seven volunteer chaplains who give of their time in serving our agencies. Chaplain Les Wolfgram, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Chaplain Sam Saylor, Gateway Community Fellowship. Wolfgram and Saylor have served since 1999. Sister Agnes also serves as a parish worker for Cathedral of the Holy Spirit; Chaplain Lonnie Grabowska is from Corpus Christi parish and is studying to be a deacon. Chaplain Nathan Keith is an associated pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church. Chaplain Cecil Stanton is from the Faith Center at 2303 E. Divide. Chaplain Terry Kern of the First Evangelical Free Church has been with the Chaplaincy program for over 20 years. For more information about the Bismarck Law Enforcement Chaplaincy www.chaplainsnd.org

For more information visit www.bismarck.org.
]]>Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=133
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased by calling 400-4978.]]>Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=131
Having accepted the Outstanding Teacher of the Year nomination, Pomonis is a wonderful recipient for this award. She has taught for 25 years; 4 years in Grand Forks and 21 years in the Bismarck Public Schools.

"As a first year administrator, it only took me a few days to realize the quality of teacher we have in Vickie Pomonis," said Shawn Oban, Roosevelt Elementary Principal, about Pomonis. "She has so many strengths as a person as well as an educator, it will be difficult to include all of them here."

Vickie does a great job in teaching curriculum, but goes well beyond by teaching her students life skills that go well beyond the classroom. The students learn to recycle, appreciate the arts, and communicate with one another. She not only teaches the skills, but is a wonderful example for her students. Vickie is always an excellent role model as she "walks the talk."

Pomonis has been married for 30 years. They have two children, Andrew who is 23 and is going to be a fireman and Peter, who is 19 attending UND. Her passion is gardening and she loves to be outdoors. Her husband says her main "hobby" is school.

The Outstanding Teacher of the Year is sponsored by Tires Plus, Northland Financial, Sykes and Carpet Award.

Pomonis received gifts from the following area Chamber members, along with the award: Neuromuscular Massage & Detox Center, Butcher Block Meats, Northland Financial, Medora Foundation,

Brunos Pizza, Race Day Lube & Wash, Ground Round, Ulteig Engineers, UND, Center for Technology & Business and Peacock Alley.

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce congratulates Vickie Pomonis on being the recipient of the 2010 Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year.

The "Outstanding Teacher of the Year Awards" was started in 1987 and designed to honor an outstanding educator in elementary education. Criteria considered when selecting the recipient are:

1) They must have direct contact with students for at least 51% of their normal working day
2) Their achievements, accomplishments, awards, and innovative methods used in their field of education
3) Contributions made within their profession
4) Community involvement

The winners are chosen by the Chamber's Business Education Partnership Committee. ]]>Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=130
An article published in the Bismarck Tribune states, "The Los Angeles area had the nation's worst ozone pollution. Bismarck, N.D., was listed as the best in the nation as far as ozone pollution is concerned."

Click on the headline below to read the entire article.

North Dakota tops Lung Association's clean air list]]>Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=128
Business owners, employers, employees and interested parties are encouraged to attend each of the forums and ask questions of the candidates.

"It is part of our responsibility as voters to learn about the candidates and what they stand for," said Kelvin Hullet, president of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce (Chamber). "As organizations that want to see the best for the Bismarck-Mandan area, the Chamber partnered with the Tribune to provide an avenue that will enable the business community to learn more about the candidates and make an informed decision come June."

The series kicks off with the Mandan City Commission Candidate forum on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. in the cafetorium of the Mandan Middle School. Dot Frank, Francis Herauf, Dennis Rohr and incumbent Gerald Serhienko will discuss various forum topics. This forum is free and all are welcome to attend.

On May 11, John Warford and Steve Schwab will come together, over the lunch hour, for a friendly discussion about what each envisions for the future of Bismarck. The forum will take place in the auditorium at the National Energy Center for Excellence (NECE) on the Bismarck State College (BSC) campus. There will be a $10 charge for this forum with a boxed lunch provided. Registration at bismarckmandan.com/events.

The final forum will be on May 13 in the auditorium of the NECE at BSC. At 6:30 p.m., the six Bismarck City Commission candidates will meet up for a conversation about Bismarck. The forum is free and all are welcome to attend.

To round out the series, there will be a "Candidate Meet & Greet" on May 20 for all people running for office. It will begin at 5:15 p.m. at the Chamber, which is located at 1640 Burnt Boat Drive in Bismarck.

Members of the community are encouraged to come to all events. Register at bismarckmandan.com/events. For more information, please call 223-5660.

]]>Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=129
According to the article, "North Dakota (ND) is the only state to currently have a higher level of economic activity year over year. Its February 2010 economic activity was 1.1% higher than February 2009, as shown by the green dot in the chart below."

Read the entire article online by clicking the headline below.

CHART OF THE DAY: 49 Out Of 50 State Economies Are Still Underwater]]>Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 29 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=127www.surveymonkey.com/surveys/mandanrecreation. The deadline for responses is June 1.

Norm Clark, co-chair of the Quality Places and Destinations Committee, explains. "We are conducting the survey to build on information gained through a youth survey about the types of activities they would like to participate in." Clark says a survey of the broader community will help the committee prioritize ideas.

A Chamber of Commerce leadership team surveyed Mandan High school juniors and seniors earlier this year about a variety of events, activities and venues. The leadership team provided a report in March that recommends additional exploration of a hot air balloon festival, snowmobile trails and races, a sledding hill, a drive-in movie theater or outdoor screen in a park setting, and enhanced canoeing and kayaking opportunities on the Missouri River. The complete report is posted on www.mandantomorrow.com.

The overall goals of the Mandan Tomorrow Quality Places and Destinations Committee are to:

· Enhance the development, coordination and marketing of recreational amenities.

· Leverage Mandan's current - and potential - array of indoor and outdoor sports facilities to attract year-round tournaments to the community.

· Capitalize on and enhance Mandan's ability to attract adventure tourism visitors.

The Quality Places and Destinations Committee is co-chaired by Lee Pierce. Other members are Terry Kraft, Annette Behm-Caldwell, Lisa Quintus, Matt Schanandore, Del Wetsch and Cole Higlin.]]>Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=126North Dakotans encouraged to celebrate Earth Day

Gov. John Hoeven has proclaimed April 22, 2010, as Earth Day.

Earth Day celebrates the efforts of young and old alike who strive to improve our environment for the benefit of today and for generations to come. On Earth Day, residents are encouraged to conserve natural resources by recycling, taking public transportation or carpooling, turning off the lights when they leave a room, and utilizing renewable resources when possible.

"Protecting and preserving the state's natural resources is important to the citizens of North Dakota," said Steve Tillotson, manager of the North Dakota Department of Health's Solid Waste Program. "Earth Day is an opportunity for North Dakotans to adopt conservation habits that will bring about a cleaner, safer and healthier environment for present and future generations."

Along with concerned citizens of North Dakota, organizations involved in the promotion of Earth Day include the North Dakota Department of Health, the North Dakota Solid Waste and Recycling Association, the Coalition for Conservation and Environmental Education, the Earth Day Planning Committee, Keep North Dakota Clean, and Valley Earth Week.

Click here to see the Governor's proclamation.]]>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=125
"This connection provides more efficient travel options for Delta customers flying to Westerly destinations," said Bismarck Airport Manager Greg Haug. "We always encourage travelers to explore their airline options at the Bismarck Airport as new service is added. Some travelers still do not realize the Bismarck Airport has direct service to Chicago on United which began almost a year ago." Haug also recommends checking the airport Web site frequently for current schedules and airfare deals.

The flight departs from Bismarck Airport at 6:40 a.m. and arrives in Salt Lake City at 8 a.m. The return flight departs Salt Lake City at 7:45 p.m. and gets into Bismarck Airport at 10:55 p.m. On June 10 a second flight begins, which opens up more possibilities than ever. The second flight will operate in the afternoon.

For current airfare specials, visit www.bismarckairport.com. For more information about the Delta Air Lines service to Salt Lake City or to book travel, visit www.delta.com or contact your local travel agent.

]]>Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=124Forbes' annual "Best Small Places for Business and Careers" ranks Bismarck-Mandan fourth within its smaller metros category this year, up from sixth place in 2009.

The smaller metros list ranks 184 MSAs with populations ranging from 55,000 to 245,000. With a 2009 estimated population of 106,000, the Bismarck-Mandan MSA is larger than only 34 other metros on the list.

The "Best Small Places for Business and Careers" are determined by 12 metrics including costs (business and living), job growth (past and projected), income growth, educational attainment and projected economic growth. Also factored in are quality-of-life issues like crime, cultural and recreational opportunities as well as net migration patters. Lastly, the percentage of subprime mortgages handed out over a three-year stretch and the number of highly ranked four-year colleges in the area were examined.

Click here to read Bismarck-Mandan's ratings.

Click here to see the entire smaller metros list.
]]>Sun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTSun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTSun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=122Retail Development Update Scheduled for May 4

The City of Mandan will host a conversation with the community on the topic of retail development on May 4 at City Hall. The forum will run from 7 to 8 p.m. following a City Commission meeting scheduled for that evening. The public is encouraged to attend.

Business Development Director Ellen Huber will present information on typical retail site requirements, Mandan's statistical profile, targeted retail list and recruitment efforts, and steps to becoming more retail ready. There will also be a question and answer period. For those who can't attend the forum, questions may be submitted in advance to ehuber@cityofmandan.com.

The forum will be carried live on Government Access, cable channel 2, and online at www.freetv.org. It will also be available for subsequent online viewing.

Representatives of partner organizations will be invited to attend and be available for questions. Those partners include the Bismarck-Mandan Development Association, Lewis and Clark Regional Development Council, Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce, Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Mandan Progress Organization.

For more information, call the City of Mandan Business Development Office at 701-667-3485.
]]>Sun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTSun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTSun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=123
The following link will take you to "An Employer's Guide to Health Care Reform." The document explains the portions of the legislation that impact business and provides a timeline for implementation.

An Employer's Guide to Health Care Reform]]>Sun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTSun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTSun, 18 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=120
Check the Chamber news section often to find the most recent release of information. To access the March 2010 Bismarck-Mandan Economy-At-A-Glance please click here.

For questions or additional information, please contact Judy Sauter at jsauter@bmda.org or 701-222-5530.

]]>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=121
Currently, North Dakota, along with the other 49 states and 5 territories, is working on a project to map broadband services in the state to increase broadband access and adoption through enhanced data collection and planning. Ultimately, this project will help identify and improve broadband access in areas that really need it.

Citizens and businesses are encouraged to participate in one of two ways:
1. From your home or business, log into the Speed Test Site located on ITD's website at http://www.nd.gov/itd/ to capture the speed of your internet connection; or
2. Anyone who does not have broadband internet service available at their home or business, should report their location by calling the toll free number 1-877-811-0471.

Funding for the project is provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications Infrastructure Administration (NTIA) under its State Broadband Data and Development Program. The data collected from states will be displayed on NTIA's national broadband map, a tool policy makers can use to plan for employment, education, and broadband services. The North Dakota Information Technology Department (ITD) is overseeing the planning and mapping project and needs your assistance in completing the statewide evaluation.

To learn more about this project, please visit http://www.stagenet.nd.gov/projects/broadband.html or call Deborah Mosset, Public Information, or Dirk Huggett, Project Manager, at (701) 328-3190.

]]>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=119health care tax credit, which is new for 2010.

Common questions addressed online include:
1. Which employers are eligible for the small employer health care tax credit?...4. What is the average premium for the small group market in a State (or an area within the State)?...and 8. Can premiums paid by the employer in 2010, but before the new health reform legislation was enacted, be counted in calculating the credit?

Find the entire list of FAQs online at http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=220839,00.html.
]]>Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=118Committee members will meet March 31 to share progress on strategic plan

Mandan Tomorrow committee chairpersons will meet on Wednesday, March 31 at Mandan City Hall from 7-8 a.m. The committee leaders will provide updates regarding their 2010 action plan to Chamber President Kelvin Hullet, Mandan Tomorrow Chairwoman Kirsten Baesler and several local government and business liaisons.

Representing each of the four strategic plan initiatives, which include Leadership, Pride & Image; Economic Opportunity & Prosperity; Quality Places & Destinations; and Education & Workforce, the chairpersons will lead a discussion about their respective projects, encourage participant feedback and outline their committee's next steps.

This informal event is intended to bring each committee up-to-date on the progress of others. A larger, public forum, the Mid-Year Update, is scheduled for Wednesday, July 21.

"Mandan Tomorrow" is the result of a joint effort between private businesses and public entities to create a community vision plan. The project began in early 2009 and included community polls, surveys and focus groups to determine the direction residents want their city to take. The project has now moved into the action phase of implementation.

The Mandan Tomorrow strategic plan and other vision plan documents are available online at www.mandantomorrow.com.
]]>Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=117
In addition to their monthly report, BMDA releases an annual review of the local economic condition. To access the 2009 Bismarck-Mandan Economy-At-A-Glance please click here.

Check the Chamber news section often to find the most recent release of information. For questions or additional information about the report, please contact Judy Sauter at jsauter@bmda.org or 701-222-5530.]]>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTFri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTFri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=116
The site, www.ndfloods.com, is set-up in a Facebook fashion to connect people to each other and flood fighting efforts. Visit www.ndfloods.com to learn more.]]>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=115
Leadership Bismarck-Mandan (LBM) will graduate 15 students during a commencement program on March 24 at the Seven Seas Hotel & Waterpark in Mandan, N.D. The ceremony, which begins at noon, will celebrate the accomplishments of 15 community members that charted a course to leadership through an exclusive seven-month program.

"Each year, a Chamber committee chooses 15 community members to complete the Leadership program," said Susie Kocourek, program director. "We keep the class small so that we can expose the students to items that are difficult for large groups. Like intimate discussions, business tours and skill building activities."

Students emerging from the program possess strengthened skills and a broadened awareness to be effective, progressive community leaders.

"Leadership Bismarck-Mandan has been an excellent experience," says student David Mason, business banking officer at American Bank Center. "Not only have I met some wonderful leaders in our community, but I have also been exposed to the numerous challenges and opportunities in the Bismarck-Mandan area. I would strongly recommend this program to anyone who wants to start giving back and being involved in the community."

Those graduating this year include:
Alicia Berger, Bismarck State College
Mary Cooper, Aetna
Brian Fettig, MDU
Kara Geiger, ND Community Foundation
Dr. Beth Holwegner, Pathways Chiropractic & Wellness
Melinda Lloyd, ND Guaranty & Title
David Mason, American Bank Center
Emily McKay, Basin Electric
Jeffrey Nelson, Vogel Law Firm
Barb Schantz, Rasmussen College
Tonya Schlaht, Eide Bailly LLP
Mike Schoepp, MDU
Kayla Shafer, Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson
Peter Thiessen, MDU
Randy Ziegler, Bismarck Police Dept.

The 2010 Leadership Graduation ceremony includes a presentation of certificates, student representative speech and lunch. Tickets are $20 each and may be purchased online or by calling 223-5660.

The Chamber congratulates the 2010 class and commends the program's sponsors: Presenting Sponsor - Aetna; and Program Sponsors - Tesoro Mandan Refinery, Tvenge Associates Architects & Planners, P.C. and Al Fitterer Architect P.C. Graduation Sponsors include: Silver Sponsor - North Dakota Guaranty & Title Company; and Table Sponsors - LBMAA, Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson, Eide Bailly LLP, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bismarck State College, Vogel Law Firm, Rasmussen College and Pathways Chiropractic.]]>Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTMon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=114
The Department of Health needs both medical and nonmedical volunteers who are interested in helping out with the public health flood response, if needed. Anyone interested in volunteering would become part of the Public Health Emergency Volunteer Reserves/Medical Reserve Corps (PHEVFR/MRC), which is a group of both medical and nonmedical volunteers who provide assistance during a public health emergency.

"It's really important that we have both medical and nonmedical volunteers ready to go in case they are needed," Vossler said. "One good example is if shelters need to be set up for evacuees, we will need medical volunteers to help with any medical needs people may have, and we will need nonmedical volunteers to help out with things like registration, setting up cots, handing out food, answering phone calls and many other things."

Anyone interested in volunteering should visit www.ndhealth.gov/EPR/volunteer. After registering, volunteers will be asked to complete a short online training. There will be an orientation training held for anyone interested in volunteering or for anyone who wants to learn more before registering. That training will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, at 7 p.m. CST. Anyone interested can participate by telephone by calling 866.888.3385 or by Internet at www.ndhealth.gov/WebcastHigh.asx.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and live, work or go to school in North Dakota. Anyone deployed as a PHEVR/MRC volunteer will be covered under North Dakota Worker's Compensation if injured while assisting in an emergency situation.

"It's very important that people interested in volunteering take the time to register on the website," Vossler said. "Knowing how many volunteers we have and what their special skills and talents are allows us to plan much more efficiently for an emergency. It also ensures that volunteers have received proper training, and that licensure checks for medical volunteers are completed. If all this is complete before an emergency, we can place that volunteer in a position quickly when needed."

More information about the PHEVR/MRC program can be found by visiting www.ndhan.gov/PHEVR/phevr.asp.

For more information, the media can contact Brenda Vossler, North Dakota Department of Health, at 701.328.2270.
]]>Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=113
This pitch fits the "Too Good to Be True," model, according to the N.D. Attorney General's Consumer Protection and Antitrust Division. Red flags include creating a false sense of urgency with artificial deadlines for response and requests for money up front. Other red flags include "homemade" websites (hosted by do-it-yourself, quick services) and recently established businesses. While the company may offer a money-back guarantee, that type of guarantee is often hard to act upon, because the guarantor will often blame the business applicant for not following through with information correctly or completely.

Grants for businesses are not as easy to obtain as purported by the solicitors. Grants are generally not awarded to businesses or individuals, but rather to state or local government entities or non-profit organizations that, in turn, provide assistance to businesses and individuals.

Business owners are urged to consider such offers for grant-writing services with caution. Contact the N.D. Attorney General's Consumer Protection and Antitrust Division at 328-3404 and check out the company on the Better Business Bureau website at www.bbb.org.
]]>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=112
"The Great Plains Young Professionals Summit was created to bring together young professionals to focus on personal and professional development, enhancing one's leadership skills, and the importance of giving back to our communities," said Jerry Haas, chairman of the Great Plains Young Professionals Summit. "We are very excited to have this opportunity to host other young professionals from around the upper Midwest."

Nationally and internationally recognized speakers are lined up to share their expertise with attendees of the Summit. The cost to attend the Summit is $79 until May 3rd. After May 3rd, the cost will be $99.

For more information or to register for the Summit, visit the Great Plains Young Professionals Summit website at www.GPYPsummit.com.]]>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=110Mandan and Morton County residents invited to learn about a run for local government offices

The Leadership, Pride & Image Committee (LPI), of the team implementing the Mandan Tomorrow strategic plan, is conducting a candidate prep course. Intended to provide information about elected, public-service positions and to encourage candidacy, the Candidate Information Forum will occur from 7-8:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 9 at the Mandan Community Center.

"Mandan is a city known for its community support," said LPI Committee Chairwoman Laurie Leingang. "The Candidate Information Forum is just one way that we can support individuals interested in running for public office."

Forum attendees will have the opportunity to hear about the various positions, determine if a public-service stint is something they should pursue and learn about the requirements to file for candidacy. Presenters include current elected officials. Anyone interested in running for a position on the Mandan Public School Board, Mandan Park Board, Mandan City Commission or Morton County Commission should attend.

The forum is free and sign-up is not required. If you have any questions, please contact Laurie Leingang at 400-8631 or leingangl@bis.midco.net.
The LPI committee is charged, among other things, with fostering citizen interest in serving in local government offices. For more information on the Mandan Tomorrow Plan, visit www.mandanvisionplan.com.
]]>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=109
While the report indicates an increase in unemployment for the area, city sales tax collections are up and taxable sales and purchases are steady.

On the home front, the average sale price of a single family house is up and so are residential new home permits. Airport boardings also have experienced an increase.

Click here to see the full report.]]>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTWed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=111
"There are numerous national issues that impact our members," said Kelvin Hullet, Chamber president. "From health care and energy issues to international trade, headlines across the county always have a local impact in Bismarck-Mandan."

March's luncheon is the first in a series of three National Hot Topic events that the Chamber will host throughout 2010. Scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., participants will learn about two important pieces of energy policy that will affect us locally and nationally. Pat Day, partner at Holland & Hart from Cheyenne, Wyo. will be present to discuss the endangerment finding the EPA recently issued regarding carbon as a pollutant. The EPA is proposing to regulate carbon under the Clean Air Act. If the EPA moves forward with this regulation, it will have a far-reaching economic impact across the business community including Bismarck-Mandan's small businesses.

Also attending the luncheon will be Canadian Consul General Martin Loken. Loken will engage the audience in a conversation about the relationship between Canada and North Dakota, discussing how the two can cooperate on energy development.

"The development of the Bakken Formation is important to the state of North Dakota. It also is a shared resource with Canada," Hullet said. "Mr. Loken will bring an interesting perspective to the luncheon."

All National Hot Topic events are intended to educate members on and facilitate open discussion around the latest national news that will affect local business. Attendees will be seated at tables of eight for small-group discussion and a panel of speakers will be situated at the head of the banquet hall.

Tickets are required to attend any of the National Hot Topic Luncheons and may be purchased at the Chamber office, located at 1640 Burnt Boat Dr. in Bismarck, online or by calling 223-5660. The cost to attend is $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Lunch is included. Seating is limited and registration ends March 9.]]>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=108Nominees sought for the 2010 Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award

The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) and the Business Education Partnership Committee (BEPC) are calling on the community to nominate an educator that influenced their life or the lives of others for the 2010 Teacher of the Year Award.

The Chamber will present one Bismarck-Mandan teacher from the elementary, secondary and post-secondary education level with the distinguished honor in April. Anyone, from current students to past, parents, co-workers and the public, can submit a nomination.

"Teachers have such a profound impact on their students," said Sally Paulson, Chamber program director and staff liaison for the BEPC. "The success of current and former students can often be traced to an outstanding educator and it's important that they are recognized for that."

Nomination forms are available at the Chamber located at 1640 Burnt Boat Dr. in Bismarck, online or via e-mail request by contacting Sally Paulson at spaulson@bismarckmandan.com. March 19 is the deadline for nomination submissions.

Nominees must have at least 51% of their working time directed to student instruction. A panel of judges chosen by the BEPC will rate the nominees on the following:

· Sense of dedication to their students and the profession.

· Spirit of classroom innovativeness.

· Respect of their students, peers and the staff with whom they work.

"I was humbled to be nominated by two of my students and it was truly gratifying to then be selected as the 2009 Secondary Outstanding Teacher of the Year," said Brad Lick, Bismarck High School teacher .

Last year's post-secondary and grade school award recipients were Brenda Whitman, Medcenter One College of Nursing, and Jo Lynde, Northridge Elementary, respectively.

Additional information about the Teacher of the Year award and program are available by contacting the Chamber at 223-5660.

]]>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=107Saturday marked the 5th Annual JA Monopoly Tournament. The fundraiser attracted 90-plus players who had the chance to see firemen suit-up for real fire calls.

The tournament was hosted at the Mandan Fire Station on Collins Avenue in Mandan. "Most of the day's action took place on Boardwalk and Park Place, but several "calls" took the players attention away from the spaces to watch the firefighters dress and drive off to help someone," said event organizer and JA Director Sally Paulson.

The tournament occupied the space typically filled by two fire trucks. With Ladder 14 and Engine 17 in the backdrop, players participated in two tournament rounds before the event winners were announced.

Taking the 4th-8th grade grand prize was Jaden Brandner; the 9th-12th grade winner was Cole Kuester and the adult award winner was Jeff Nygaard.

To view photos of the tournament, visit www.bismanja.org.
]]>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=106
People 65 years and older are now encouraged to seek vaccination against H1N1. Other vaccination priority groups encouraged to get vaccinated include:

• Pregnant Women and New Moms
• College students
• 2nd dose for children 9 years and under if it has been 28 days since 1st shot
• People ages 25-64 with chronic medical conditions

People presenting influenza symptoms are asked not to attend. In addition, participants should wear short sleeves and obey posted parking signs.

Please visit www.bismarck.org or www.ndflu.com/FluClinic.aspx for ongoing information about Flu Clinics, dates and times.


]]>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTThu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - Newshttp://www.bismarckmandan.com/news/detail.asp?newsID=105are not part of the official census being conducted by the US Census Bureau.

To find out what makes a document part of the official US Census 2010, the Chamber has uploaded the INFOGRAM, which is an information service of the Denver Regional Census Center. Please click here to access it.
]]>Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTTue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMTBismarck Mandan Chamber - News