October 2013
Timber Tour
to Focus on
Energy and
Manufacturing
Government
Affairs Local
Report
The 2013 Timber Tour will feature the
ribbon cutting ceremony of the newly
constructed FH Stoltze 2.5 MW woodfired combined heat and power facility
and tour. The event will also feature a
tour of Plum Creek’s Evergreen Plywood
Plant where 160 of their 750 Montana
employees work. The program is
produced by the Kalispell Chamber
of Commerce in association with the
Associated Chambers of the Flathead
and with the Montana Forest Products
continued on page 8
>>
October Luncheon
Promotes Small
Business Saturday;
Buy Local
The October luncheon program will
inform business owners about Small
Business Saturday on November 30,
and how America’s small business
owners can utilize the partnership
between the Chamber and American
continued on page 11
>>
At a Glance
Community rallies in support of bypass
completion. On Sept 30, 25 business
and civic leaders attended the MT
Transportation Commission meeting
in Helena to rally support for the
completion of the bypass. All three
county commissioners, Mayor Fisher,
Councilman Guiffrida, Police Chief
Nassett, Sen. Tutvedt, and Rep. Cuffe
were present. Additionally, there was
representation from 15 local businesses
continued on page 7
Chamber Snapshot
Visitor’s Center Information
August ‘13
YTD
Phone Calls:
201
983
Walk-ins
1,594
4,767
VACATION
Packets
Email Inquiries
RELOCATION
Packets
Phone Books
>>
145
54
1,088
474
57
1
348
3
Web Activity
Page Views
510,374 2,861,641
Top six pages
Bus. Directory 18,034 139,011
Events 16,911 322,272
Hot Deals
51,373 540,969
Jobs
51,916 543,377
Info Request
705
8,973
News
51,184 533,986
Total
514,279 4,769,622
UNWINDS
>> Wednesday,October 16
5-6:30 PM
UNWIND
JCCS
35 Three Mile Drive, Suite 101
Kalispell
LUNCHEON
>> Tuesday, October 15
Noon-1:30 PM
October Luncheon
Small Business Saturday
Red Lion Hotel
20 N Main
Kalispell
In This Issue
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
12 13
14
New Members
New Directors & Officers
Renewals
Annual Banquet
October Calendar
UNWIND’s
Ribbon Cutting
Chamber Choices
Government Affairs Local Report
Timber Tour, continued
Shop Small Saturday
BEAR
Building Blocks
Destination Flathead
Government Affairs State Report, cont.
Leadership Flathead
New Directors & Officers, continued
October Luncheon, continued
Destination Flathead
Presenting Tuscany, Italy 2014
Past Great Chief, Businessman /
Businesswoman of the Year Award
15 Depot Park Kalispell, MT 59901 Phone: 406.758.2800 Fax: 406.756.2805 Visit Us Online: www.KalispellChamber.com
Officers
Reed Gunlikson, Chairman of the Board, R.
Gunlikson CPA
Brian Pelc, Vice-Chairman of the Board, First
Interstate Bank
Lisa Brown, Secretary/Treasurer, Red Lion Hotel
Dave Mitchell, Immediate Past Chairman of the
Board, CTA Architects and Engineers
Directors
Kris Carlson, A+ Plus Healthcare
Mark Gronley, Northwestern Energy
Scott Hagel, Crowley Fleck Law Firm
Mark Johnson, Flathead Electric Cooperative
Kristen Jones, Flathead Valley Community College
Jason Manger, Applied Materials-Semitool
Denise Nalty, Nalty Real Estate and Property
Management, LLC
Chris Ohler, Insured Titles
Jim Oliverson, Kalispell Regional Healthcare
Bob Nystuen, Glacier Bank
Jim Peterson, Valley Ford
Loren Sallee, Loren’s Automotive
Jerry Sorensen, Plum Creek Timber Company
Holly Walsh, Western States Insurance
Dave Waldenberg, Central Heating & Cooling
Rick Weaver, Daily Inter Lake
Ex-officio Directors
Mike Pence, Flathead County Administrator
Doug Russell, Kalispell City Manager
Professional Staff
Joe Unterreiner, President and CEO . . . . 758-2804
Chris Parson, Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . 758-2801
Diane Bebee, Administrative Specialist. . 758-2803
Rob Brisendine, KCVB Group Sales. . . . . 758-2820
Vonnie Day, Travel Counselor.. . . . . . . . . . 758-2809
Diane Medler, KCVB Director. . . . . . . . . . 758-2808
Michelle Drager, Kalispell Chamber
Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 758-2810
DeAnn Thomas, Business Expansion
and Retention. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250-8077
Consulting Staff
Anderson, Baker & Swanson - Government
Relations
Edge Communications - Media & Public Relations
Janet Schwalk - Bookkeeping
JCCS - Tax & Audit Counsel
Partners Creative - Creative Agency
Kalispell Chamber of Commerce
Mission Statement
The central mission of the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce is the
cultivation and development of entrepreneurs and communities
through the spirit of enterprise.
New Members
Please welcome these new members with your business.
American Express OPEN Small
Business Credit Cards
200 Vesey Street
New York, NY 10285
212-640-0088
Alice.Wong1@aexp.com
http://www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/credit-cards/
American Express OPEN is the leading payment card issuer for small businesses in
the US and supports business owners with products and services to help them run
and grow their businesses.
Big Sky Lawn & Landscaping
282 N. Many Lakes Dr
Kalispell, MT 59901
(406) 250-2078
russsorenson@hotmail.com
Offering all phazes of lawn maintenance, pruning. All phazes
of landscaping & snow plowing.
Certified Rolfing Kalispell
159 N Main
Kalispell, MT 59901
(406) 407-8220
john@certifiedrolfing.com
http://www.certifiedrolfing.com
Certified Rolfing facilitates & reintegrates the tissue,
bone & nervous system to release, realign & balance the
whole body thus relieving pain, reducng compensatons
&enabling a more authentic expression
The WAVE
1250 Baker Ave
Whitefish, MT 59937
(406) 862-2444
art@whitefishwave.com
http://www.whitefishwave.com/
Welcome to the Wave, Flathead Valley’s premiere aquatic and fitness center. Our
friendly staff, clean facility, award winning design and world class equipment are
just a few of our offerings.
2
New Directors & Officers Named
Four new directors have been nominated for terms to begin in 2014: Bob Nysteun,
president of Glacier Bank is filling the term of Jim Ness who moved to Bozeman to
become president of Glacier’s affiliate there. Jerry Sorensen, the lands manager
for Plum Creek is filling the term of Kelly Robinson who is heading the southeast
lands division of Plum Creek. Mike Mower, owner of Northwest Drywall and, Joe
Carbonari, owner of Carbonari and Associates, will begin their terms in January. The
2014 officers proposed for the approval of the membership are:
Chairman of the Board:
Reed Gunlikson, R Gunlikson CPA’s
continued on page 12 >>
Renewals
20 Plus Years
Culligan Water Conditioning
Flathead FFA
Glacier Jet Center
LC Staffing Service
Mergenthaler Transfer & Storage
Montana Environmental Lab
Plant Land
Wakefield Beauty Connection
10 to 19 Years
Airworks, Inc
Blue & White Motel
BMC West
Bojangles Diner
Complete Pest Services Inc
CTA Architects Engineers
Discovery Developmental Center
Distinctive Countertops & Cabinetry
Dr Stephen P Johnson DDS, Inc PC
Five Star Rentals & Property
Management
Flathead Village Greens, LLC
Gardner’s RV & Trailer Center
Glacier Eye Clinic
Hammerquist Casalegno Inc
Hub International
Insured Titles
Jordahl & Sliter
Kalispell Toyota
Majestic Valley Arena
Max Media of Montana 23/42
Northwest Cabinet Works
Orthopedic Rehab Inc
Parenting With Dignity
R Gunlikson & Associates CPA PC
Re/Max Glacier Country
Trails West Real Estate
Trinity Lutheran School
Vista Linda Restaurant and Catering
5 to 9 Years
Dr Thomas Pittaway DMD, PC
Lowes of Kalispell
Moore Hearing
Mountain Valley Foods
Roger G. Brown MD
Silverbrook Estates
Three Rivers Bank of Montana Meridian Road
Torrent Technologies Inc
Ziplocal
1 to 4 Years
David C. Keim D.D.S./Glacier Dental
Group, PC
Ewing Sales
Federal Protection of Montana
Grouse Mountain Lodge
John’s Angels Catering, LLC
Kalispell Business Improvement District
Lucky Lil’s
Magic Diamond
Montana Community Development
Corporation-MCDC
Montana Lil’s
Montana Raceway Park, Inc
Tamarack Alehouse & Grill
Town Pump
Vision Net, Inc.
3
Flathead Regional Business Center
15 Depot Park, Kalispell, MT 59901
(406) 758-2800
(406) 758-2805: Fax
Business Expansion and Retention
DeAnn Thomas, Director
(406) 250-8077
deannthomas5@gmail.com
www.nwmontanabear.com
Flathead Community Foundation
Lucy Smith, Executive Director
lucy@flatheadcommunityfoundation.org
www.flatheadcommunityfoundation.org
Flathead Job Service Workforce Center
Mora McCarthy, Business Resource Consultant
Mike Jackson, Business Resource Consultant
(406) 758-6241
mmccarthy@mt.gov
www.employflathead.com
Kalispell Chamber of Commerce
Joe Unterreiner, President
(406) 758-2804
joe@kalispellchamber.com
www.kalispellchamber.com
Kalispell Chamber Foundation
Michelle Drager, Director
(406) 758-2810
michelled@kalispellchamber.com
Kalispell Convention & Visitor Bureau
Diane Medler, Director
(406) 758-2808
dianem@kalispellchamber.com
www.discoverkalispell.com
Manufacturers Alliance
manufacturersalliance@kalispellchamber.com
406-758-2800
Northwest Montana SCORE
Liz Scholter, Chapter Chair
(406) 756-5271
nwmtscore@montanasky.net
Procurement Technical Assistance Center
Doug Bolender, Director
(406) 755-4221
dougb@mtcdc.org
Join Us for the 109th Annual Banquet
We invite you to join us in support
of the Kalispell Chamber initiative,
“Destination Flathead” at the 109th
Annual Banquet on Thursday,
November 14, 2013, at the Hilton
Garden Inn in Kalispell. Heidi Olsen,
producing sales manager, Rocky
Mountain Bank, is the chair of this year’s
event and serving as the co-chair is
Dorinda Gray, business development,
Insured Titles. This is the Flathead Valley
business marquee event of the year
with over 400 community business
leaders and professionals. Enjoy a
celebratory evening featuring awards,
entertainment, auction and new this
year a “wine grab,” featuring an array of
fine wines and vineyard favorites.
The Kalispell Chamber chose
“Destination Flathead” as the initiative
for the event. “A portion of this year’s
sponsorship and ticket price goes
toward the “Destination Flathead”
initiative that supports greater
access to the Kalispell area, through:
securing completion of the Kalispell
Bypass, expanding commercial air
service at Glacier National Airport
to and from Arizona and California,
developing the Kalispell Rail Park, and
strengthening passenger rail service,”
said Joe Unterreiner, Kalispell Chamber
president and CEO. “I encourage you to
join us in the cause to support access
to our area and our businesses by
attending and securing a sponsorship,”
he added.
Individual tickets are $100 and tables of
8 are also available for $750.
The live auction packages are being
assembled and include a Rose Bowl
Package, Dragon Boat/Spartan Race
Package, Winter Wonderland Package,
Holiday Trolley Tour, Glacier Experience,
Golf Enthusiast Package, College Sports
Package, Get Fit and Wellness Package,
Outdoors and Sportsman Package, and
more. If you are interested in donating
something to make these package
themes outstanding, we would
welcome your donation!
We need 200 bottles of wine for the
“Wine Grab!” If you would like to share
a bottle or case of your favorite wines or
a monetary donation to purchase wine
for the “wine grab”, please let us know.
As a kick off for the holiday season, a
great selection of fine wines will bring
good cheer. Tickets for the wine grab
will be sold the evening of the event
and you will be able to take your grab
for some amazing red or white wines.
For information on the Annual Banquet
opportunities, please contact Diane
Bebee at 406-758-2803 or email her at
info@kalispellchamber.com for ticket
and table information, or contact
Michelle Drager, Kalispell Chamber
Foundation Director at 406-758-2810
or at michelled@kalispellchamber.com
for sponsorship, auction, wine, and
monetary donations for the event.
Sponsorship opportunities are still
available starting from $250 - $5,000,
as well as specialty sponsorships
for Great Chief, Business Man and
Business Woman of the year and more.
Richard Anderson (r), CEO of Delta
Airlines speaks to the audience at the
MT Economic Development Summit in
Butte.
A manufacturers business breakfast
with Sen. Baucus was held at Applied
Materials on Sep 13 featuring the
Ambassadors from China, Germany,
Japan, and Peru. Sen. Baucus
announced a $46 million gift of
production software from Siemens to
FVCC.
Sixteen business men and women
travelled by bus to Helena on Sep 26
to push for completion of the Kalispell
Bypass at the MT Transportation
Commission.
4
Chamber Calendar
Sunday
Monday
1
All Meetings
are at The
Chamber
unless
otherwise
stated.
6
Tuesday
7
Noon-1 pm
Government
Affairs
8
3-5 pm
BEAR Meeting
8-9 am
Ed/Co Meeting
14
21
9
3
8:30-9:30 am
Building Blocks
Series
10
7-8 am
Agri/Business
Meeting
4-5 pm
Ambassadors
15
11:45 am-1:30 pm
October
Luncheon
Small Business
Saturday
Red Lion Hotel
Columbus Day
Chamber Closed
20
2
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
4
5
11
12
18
19
25
26
Deadline for
Annual Award
Nominations
10:30-noon
Associated
Chambers
3-5 pm
Leadership
Flathead
13
Wednesday
October 2013
22
7:30-8:30 am
Executive Board
16
Noon
Gov. Affairs
Meeting
5-6:30 pm
UNWIND-JCCS
35 Three Mile
Drive, Suite 101,
Kalispell
23
8:30-9:30 am
Building Blocks
3-4 pm
Great Chief
Nomination Meeting
4-5 pm
Businessman/
Businesswoman
Nomination Meeting
17
8:30-9:30 am
Building Blocks
5:30-6:30 pm
Tuscany
Informational
Meeting
24
8:30-9:30 am
Building Blocks
1-5 pm
Timber Tour
3-5 pm
New Member
Orientation
27
28
29
2-5 pm
Board Retreat
30
318:30-9:30 am
Building Blocks
Halloween
5
6
Look for these events in November:
Nov 14 – 109th Annual Banquet
Nov 20 – UNWIND-Pizza Hut
Nov 21 – Final Tuscany Informational
Meeting
UNcover What’s Interesting, New and Developing
The Daily Inter Lake Building was
bursting at the seams as UNWIND
attendees spilled through the offices
visiting and sampling the variety
of munchies provided by Super
One Foods. Allison Rold, Wild Horse
Limousine went home with the Split
the Pot for the evening. Other door
prize winners included Loren Sallee,
Loren’s Auto Body; Christy Doty, Daily
Inter Lake; Allison Rold, Wild Horse
Limousine; Stan Watkins, Kalispell
Athletic Club; Clint Ekern, Three Rivers
Bank; Kara Krause, Daily Inter Lake; Dan
Makowski, Stillwater Christian School;
Mark Niemeyer, Rural Dynamics; David
Peterson,Goodale & Barbieri; and Pam
Carbonari, KBID.
Short notice and
uncertain weather
did not deter folks
from attending the
UNWIND at Certified
Rolfing Kalispell,
159 N. Main Street.
John Barton set up
his table in the main
room of his practice
in order to demonstrate rolfing.
Several people were lucky enough to
be selected to receive an abbreviated
treatment for demonstration purposes.
Prize winners for the evening included
Connie Gomez, Pets Plus; Deb Coulson,
MarketingLever; Don Shanklin, Bear
Springs, Inc and Pam Carbonari,
Carbonari Associate, Inc.
Upcoming
UNWINDS
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
5-6:30 PM
Junkermeier Clark Campanella
Stevens PC
35 Three Mile Drive, Suite 101
Kalispell, MT 59901
Chris Parson, Chamber Vice President,
Patti Carlson, Daily Inter Lake
Marketing Director look on as Rick
Weaver, Editor, Daily Inter Lake thanks
everyone for attending the UNWIND.
John Barton, Certified Rolfing Kalispell,
demonstrates his technique on John
Shanklin.
Ribbon Cutting
John Agnew (Chamber
Ambassador) and
Stefanie Lefevre hold
the ribbon while Girl
Scouts Elizabeth
Opalka and Stephanie
Reis (with the scissors)
get ready. Amy Hicks
and Sue Dow lend their
moral support.
6
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
5-6:30 PM
Pizza Hut
55 N Main
Kalispell, MT 59901
Government
Affairs Local
Report
>> from cover
October is Breast Cancer
Awareness Month This month has been designated as
an international health campaign to
raise awareness of Breast Cancer and
raise funds for research into its cause,
prevention diagnosis, treatment and
cure. This month also reminds women
to be aware and remember that early
detection is important.
There are various factors that affect
your risk of getting breast cancer. In
fact, the causes of breast cancer are not
fully known. However, researchers have
identified many risk factors associated
with a person’s chances of getting the
disease. A risk factor does not cause
the disease but may put you at a higher
risk. Some risk factors include: being a
woman, getting older, a family history
of breast or ovarian cancer, and never
having children, to name a few.
Some ways to offset these risk factors is
to make healthy lifestyle choices. A few
examples of healthy lifestyle choices
are to maintain a healthy weight, add
exercise to your routine, limit alcohol
intake, limit postmenopausal hormones
and breastfeed if you can. Physical
activity not only burns calories but
helps lower your risk of breast cancer.
Breast self-awareness is also extremely
important. It is important to know your
own risk factors. Make sure you get
screened on a regular basis. There are
two types of breast cancer screening
tests. The first is a Mammogram. A
Mammogram is recommended for
women age 40 and older once a year.
The other screening test is a clinical
breast exam which is recommended for
women age 20-39 at least every three
years. (www.komen.org)
Montana Chamber Choices is a big
supporter of prevention practices.
That is why we offer many preventive
benefits to our members. Chamber
Choices provides 100% of the allowable
fee on preventive screens such as
mammograms and colonoscopies. So
be aware this month and go and get
your screening!
October is an
important month to
be aware of what is
going on with Health
Care Reform and the
ACA (Affordable Care
Act). Please refer to
the details below.
Health Care Reform (aka the Affordable
Care Act) includes a mandate that
most employers will find they need to
comply with: The Notice of Exchange
requirement. This Notice must be given
to ALL of your current employees no
later than October 1st and will need
to be given to new hires within 14
days of employment. * On September
11, 2013 the DOL announced that it
will not penalize employers that do not
provide this notice. However, for legal
reasons, we suggest the notice should be
sent.
The Notice informs employees that
the Health Insurance Marketplace
(Exchange) is another option for health
coverage and that it will go live on
October 1st for effective dates as early
as January 1st. Here are some facts
about the Marketplace:
• It is a website where citizens can go
to purchase health coverage;
• You will see familiar carriers on
Montana’s Marketplace: Blue Cross,
Pacific Source, and a new company
called Montana Health CO-OP;
• It is the ONLY place where an ‘eligible’
person can receive an immediate
tax credit to reduce their health
insurance premium each month,
o An ‘eligible’ person is defined
as someone who does NOT have
affordable/minimum value coverage
available to them through their
employer or their spouse’s employer,
and whose household income is at
or below 400% of the federal poverty
level. For more information on this
notice please go to the Department of
Labor website at
http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/newsroom/tr13-02.html.
7
and organizations. Further, 150 signed
a multi-industry coalition letter urging
the Commission to proceed with the
completion of the bypass at the earliest
possible date.
The Commission took action to add
Four Mile Drive to Kalispell’s Urban
Highway System. The decision about
the sequencing and funding of highway
projects for the next five-year period
will be in front of the Commission in the
next 30-days. We will continue to keep
you informed on this important topic in
the weeks ahead.
Chamber advocates a “no” position
on initiative to roll-back airport
improvements. The Chamber board
supports the City Council decision
to accept Airport Improvement
Funds to improve safety, reduce
noise, and provide for the long-term
financial stability of this important
city asset. This “no” vote would direct
City leadership to move with these
necessary improvements using
the funds created for US airport
infrastructure improvements. Should
the referendum succeed, city taxpayer’s
are at risk for being stuck with an
estimated $1.6 million of runway
repairs without a source of funds to
make those fixes .
The Election Office is scheduled to mail
ballots on Oct 16. Election Day is Nov 5.
Timber Tour
>> from cover
Industry Week celebration across the
state.
Scheduled stops along the tour include:
1:00 Leave from the Kalispell
Chamber
Program:
• FH Stoltze co-generation
facility tour
Plum Creek Evergreen Plant
tour
5:00 Return to Chamber
The event will be held on Thursday,
October 24, 1-5 pm, leaving and
returning to the Depot Building. To
register for the Timber Tour, call 406-7582803 or info@kalispellchamber.com or
go to Events on www.kalispellchamber.com
Sign Up Now
To Participate in
Small Business
Saturday
Register by Oct. 14 for a chance
to win $125 in AMEX Gift Cards
Small Business Saturday, set for
November 30, is gaining momentum
as the 2013 holiday shopping season
approaches. Be a part of the action
and increase sales this Thanksgiving
weekend at no cost. Participation in
Small Business Saturday is free, easy
and will include strong promotional
support from the Kalispell Chamber.
Members who would like to benefit
from this “Shop Small” initiative must
sign up by November 1 by contacting
Courtenay Sprunger at 406.270.2949 or
at Courtenay@bigskypublicrelations.com.
Businesses registered by October
14 will be entered to win five $25
American Express gift cards, for a
total value of $125. There will be five
winners, each taking home five $25
American Express gift cards. Winners
will be announced at the October
luncheon and gift cards will be awarded
in early November.
8
NW MONTANA BUSINESS AND
EXPANSION AND RETENTION PARTNERSHIP
Mission
Assisting businesses with the tools and support to
become a successful, vibrant part of the local economy
“My Experience with BEAR…Outstanding”
Owner: Connie Surmack, Social Nectar
What Connie says about BEAR: The BEAR Partners had the expertise
to help me strengthen my business by focusing my services, re-think
and decide what I want my business to become…then they help me
develop the strategies, estimate budgets, and build a plan to launch
my business, really move forward and IT WORKED! My experience with BEAR was exceptional. They listened
and asked many questions until they understood my very unique business – they are visionary and helped me
to become more visionary.
Social Nectar: In very simplistic terms, Social Media Marketing is recognizing the opportunity to acknowledge
the people who are already loyal to your brand while taking the time to meet new people who will get to know
you, become interested in your product or service and ultimately invest in you.
Owner: Mike Wilson, Timberlake Landworks, Inc.
Office Manager: Kristen Lee
What Kristen says about BEAR: One of best things about Mike Jackson’s
and Mora McCarthy’s BEAR visit is his great follow up email letter to our
meeting. Mike and Mora were great; the whole tone of the visit was “How
can we help you by understanding your business and matching the right
resources to help you grow your business?” However, I still have to come back to Mike’s follow up email letter.
The summary he sent us with all the resources; who they are, what they can do for us and how to contact each
resources – and all of this information in one place – it’s exceptional! We look forward to working with the
other BEAR partners; it was a very good and helpful experience.
Timberlake: Timberlake Landworks, Inc. is a Montana owned and operated company that specializes in
providing environmentally sound forestry, excavation, land management, and property services. We serve
residential and commercial customers throughout Northwest Montana.
Owners: Loren and Travis Sallee, Loren’s Auto Repair
What Travis says about BEAR: BEAR and their resources absolutely
made a difference. We have received a lot more training than we could
have ever offered our employees on our own. Mike Jackson worked with
me personally to apply for IWT (Incumbent Worker Training) Funds. He
made sure we got the application right the first time. His knowledge of
the application and finances plus his time at our business really helped
out. I look forward to working with BEAR again.
Loren’s: At Loren's Auto Repair, our goal for over 28 years has been the same: to provide the best quality auto
repair with a highest level of service available in Northwest Montana. We like to call it "Service with
Integrity".
If you would like to know how BEAR can help your business at little or no cost please call 406.758.6252 or
406.250.8077 or email www.kalispellchmber.com or mjackson2@mt.gov. We can help you no matter what size
business and we look forward to hearing from you.
9
Kalispell Chamber of Commerce September 2013
Government Affairs State Report
Children, Families, Health and
Human Services Interim Committee
met in Butte and Boulder on
September 16 and Warm Springs at
the State Hospital on September 17.
The objective of the meeting was to
tour four state-operated institutions
which provide mental health and
developmental disability services: the
MT Chemical Dependency Center in
Butte; the MT Developmental Center
in Boulder; the Montana State Hospital
in Warm Springs and the MT State
Prison in Deer Lodge. CFHHS will be
reviewing how these institutions could
be changed to result in more effective
treatment delivery. The next meeting
is scheduled for November 15, 2013 in
Helena. Rep. Scott Reichner (R-Bigfork)
serves on this committee.
Economic Affairs Interim Committee
will meet on October 22 in Helena.
The committee will begin to look at
issues as directed by HJR 25 – study
of workers’ compensation insurance.
There will be a panel discussion on
actuarial reviews for the MT State Fund
(MSF) and the funding options for the
Old Fund, administered by MSF. The
committee will consider options for
restructuring the MSF and receive
a report on private insurer and selfinsured perspectives. An update on the
Health Insurance Exchange presented
by the MT Hospital Association, the
Independent Insurance Agents and the
Navigator representatives (primary care
association, rural health network and
PPMT) is also on the agenda. Senator
Bruce Tutvedt (R-Kalispell) chairs this
committee.
The Education and Local Government
interim committee met in Helena
on Monday and Tuesday, September
23-24 to finalize it work plan and hear
updates from the Office of Public
Instruction and the MT University
System. The committee reviewed
shared policy goals and accountability
measures for K-20 education systems
with the goal of increasing interagency
cooperation and the quality of
education policymaking. Some of the
measures discussed include aligning
high school outcomes with college
readiness expectations; expanding
distant learning opportunities;
promoting data-driven policy
decisions and improving student
achievement. ELG also began work on
HJR 2 – the investigation of state and
local government electronic records
management. Rep. Dan Salomon (RRonan) serves on ELG.
Energy and Telecommunications
interim committee met in Harlowton
on September 12-13 to get a close
up view of wind farms in Montana,
consider the value of qualifying small
power facilities, and discuss the
renewable energy requirements. ETIC
learned about Montana’s renewable
portfolio standards (RPS) as passed
in 2005. It requires 15% of a public
utility’s portfolio include renewable
power by 2015 and beyond. Idaho
and Wyoming do not have any RPS
requirements, while North and South
Dakota have a stated goal of 10% but
no requirement. Utah’s goal is 20% by
2025.
On the second day of the meeting, the
committee received an overview of
qualifying facilities (QFs) and a tour of
the Two Dot LLC. In response to the
issue, ETIC voted unanimously to object
to the Public Service Commission’s
proposed rulemaking pertaining to
qualifying facilities. The committee
has a panel discussion on Green
Schools and received an update from
the PSC on its Broadband survey and
an update on interoperability. The
PSC has worked closely with the MT
broadband mapping group to identify
areas underserved by broadband and
encourages companies to complete
build-out plans in those areas. The
10
next ETIC meeting will be November
8, 2013 in Helena and the committee
will continue to work on the RPS study
and receive an update from the Public
Service Commission. Representative
Keith Regier (R-Kalispell) serves on this
committee.
Environmental Quality Council met in
Helena on September 11 and 12. The
committee finalized its work plan and
received updates on the state water
plan, the current fire season, the bison
management plan, and the sage grouse
advisory council. The committee
also focused on SJ15-a study of
federal land management and survey
results from a number of counties.
Survey results covered issues from
economic productivity to conflicts with
jurisdiction and road management.
The agenda included a tour of Reader’s
Alley, a state owned asset in downtown
Helena. Representatives Ed Lieser
(D-Whitefish) and Jerry Bennett (RLibby) and Senator Jennifer Fielder
(R-Thompson Falls) serve on EQC. The
next EQC meeting is scheduled for
January 8-9, 2014.
Law and Justice interim committee
met in Helena on September 19-20
to review the funding and operation
of the Office of Public Defender and
begin work on the study of the Board
of Pardons and Parole. Presentations
focused on providing an understanding
of the current correctional process
especially as it relates to parole
philosophy and background, how
offenders flow through the programs
and facilities, and how information
is shared about an offender. The
committee also had a panel discussion
with local judges and attorneys on
family law and alternatives to improve
the current system as required in SJ 22.
The next Law and Justice meeting is
scheduled for December 5 in Helena.
continued next page >>
Building Blocks to
Strengthen Your Business
Government
Affairs State
Report >> from page 10
An educational series to help employers understand the
tools to grow your business and your employees provided
at No Cost!
Representative Steve Lavin (R-Kalispell)
serves on Law and Justice.
Dates: October Thursdays
Time: 8:30am-9:30am
Location: Kalispell Chamber
Revenue and Transportation interim
committee meets on October 1 & 2 in
Helena. Senator Janna Taylor (R-Dayton)
serves on RTIC.
Oct 03: STRATEGIC GROWTH: 1 HOUR 2 PLAN
Bill Nicholson, MT Manufacturing Center
Oct 10: DISPELLING THE MYTHS SURROUNDING THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
FOR SMALL BUSINESS
Jim Nys, Personnel Plus! Consulting Services
Oct 17: UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE RISKS FOR EMPLOYERS
Joseph Reiner, Unemployment Insurance Division
Oct 24: FRONT OFFICE SAFETY & SECURITY
Deputy Travis Bruyer, Fltd County Sheriff’s Office
MADE POSSIBLE BY:
State Administration and Veterans
Affairs Committee will meet on October
21 in Helena. Senator Dee Brown (RHungry Horse) chairs SAVA.
Water Policy Interim Committee met on
September 9-10 in Helena. Senator Chas
Vincent (R-Libby) chairs this committee
that focuses on the complex issue of
water. At the two-day meeting, WPIC
had presentations by the Montana State
Water Center and the Water Court/DNRC
on updates on water adjudication. It
addressed the HJ26 study of intersecting
interests of estate owners and ditch
owners; had a wildfire and forestry project
update by representatives from the Forest
Service; received a demonstration on
hydrology by the MT Bureau of Mines
and Geology; and brief updates on water
compact commission work.
The Reserved Water Rights Compact
Commission will present a report
answering questions about the proposed
compact with the Confederated Salish
and Kootenai Tribes at its next meeting
on January 6-7 in Helena. Public
comments an the compact are available
on the committee website.
Legislative Council held its biennial
strategic planning session in Helena on
August and will reconvene on October
23 in Helena. Senator Chas Vincent
and Speaker Mark Blasdel serve on the
Council.
Legislative Finance Committee
is scheduled to meet in Helena on
September 26-27 to look at wildfire costs;
state pay plan updates; and the fiscal year
end report on revenue.
11
Leadership
Flathead
Welcomes
Class of 2014
New Directors &
Officers Named
>> from page 3
The Leadership Flathead’s Class of 2014 assembled for the
start of their adventure together with an overnight retreat at
the Glacier Camp & Conference Center on Flathead Lake on
September 20 and 21, 2013. The Class of 2014, guided by class
officers Kelly Bilau, Katie Fries, and Josh Kroll from the class of 2013, is comprised of
an impressive array of professions and personalities. Please join us in welcoming the
following individuals to the Leadership Flathead program:
Terry Aubrey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flathead Job Service
Brad Bennett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Applied Water Consulting
Karena Bemis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton Garden Inn
Joe Bilau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kalispell Regional Medical Center
Scott Blodgett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wells Fargo
Margaret Bumgarner. . . . . . . . . . North Valley Hospital
Melissa Brickl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MT Dept. of Natural Resources & Conservation
John Briggs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mission Builders International, YWAM
Donna Briggs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mission Builders International, YWAM
Katy Brooke. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flathead Valley Community College
Jennifer Carrier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NXGEN Payment Services
Noreen Cady. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Park Side Federal Credit Union
Kelly Cuffe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Interstate Bank
Robert Davies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flathead National Forest, Hungry Horse-Glacier View
Lindsey Simpson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . City of Kalispell
Teri Dugan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flathead County Library System
Kelly Gallipeau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kalispell Regional Medical Center
David Gibson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plum Creek
Katie Halling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jackola Engineering & Architecture, PC
Mark L. Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glacier Bank
Sally Johnson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flathead Valley Community College
Brien Kreps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Swiftcurrent Consulting and Accounting, PC
Jonathan R. Kuntz. . . . . . . . . . . . . Applied Materials, Semitool BU
Lacie Angel, LMT, CNMT. . . . . . . Angel Massage Therapy, LLC
Michelle Lam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Interstate Bank
Erick Moy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plum Creek
Mikel Parrish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flathead Electric Coop
Kristal Reed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rocky Mountain Bank
Holly Riffe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NPS-Glacier National Park
Rebecca (Becky) Shoemaker. . . Valley Bank of Kalispell
Tenis C. Tennyson. . . . . . . . . . . . . Immanuel Lutheran Communities
Carol Treadwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation
Tammy Walker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Montana State University Cooperative Extension
Matt Waldenberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . Central Heating Cooling Plumbing & Electrical
Philip Wilson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glacier National Park
Carla Wilton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buffalo Hill Terrace
Jennifer Winters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glacier Bank
Erica Wirtala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Northwest Montana Association of Realtors
12
Vice Chairman of the Board:
Brian Pelc, First Interstate Bank
Secretary/Treasurer:
Lisa Brown, Red Lion Hotels
Immediate-Past Chairman:
David Mitchell, CTA Architects
Engineers
Two directors are leaving the Board
after outstanding contributions. Mark
Johnson, Merrill Lynch, is running
unopposed for Mayor of Kalispell.
Denise Nalty, Nalty Real Estate, served
as a director for two terms. Please be
sure to thank these two for their good
service when you see them. They will
be missed!
October Luncheon
>> from cover
Express to support buying local during
the holiday season. The luncheon
will include Kalispell businesses
showcasing unique, local offerings
and sharing their “Shop Small”
success stories.
Businesses signed up to participate by
October 14 will be entered to win five
$25 American Express gift cards, for a
total value of $125. There will be five
winners, each taking home five $25
American Express gift cards. Winners
will be announced at the luncheon and
cards awarded in early November.
This luncheon is sponsored by Flathead
Electric Cooperative.
The luncheon is scheduled for noon
- 1:00 pm on Tuesday, October 15 at
the Red Lion Hotel. Luncheon tickets
are $19 each. Tables of eight may
be reserved for $140. Tickets are
purchased in advance by calling 406758-2803 or register on-line at
www.kalispellchamber.com.
Don’t miss out on of the biggest events of the year! Be part of
the ceremonies for the induction of our new Chairman of the
Board and our 2013 Great Chief and Business Man/Woman of
the year!
Tickets are $100/seat or $750/table of 8. Reservations must
be received by 5 PM 11/8/2013.
For reservations or information about how you can contribute
to the auction & wine grab contact Diane: 758-2803 or
info@kalipsellchamber.com
Title Sponsorship: $5,000 (1 available, non-compete)
Gold Sponsorship: $3,000 (5 available)
Silver Sponsorship: $1,500 (Unlimited available)
Business Person of the Year Sponsorship:
$1,500 (2 available)
Great Chief Sponsorship: (1 available)
Dinner Wine Sponsor: $2,500 (1 available)
Table Sponsorship: $950 (unlimited)
General Sponsorship: $250 (unlimited)
You can also register online with a credit card at
www.kalispellchamber.com
Destination Flathead Initiative
A portion of this year’s sponsorship and ticket price goes
toward the Destination Flathead Initiative that supports
greater access to the Kalispell area, through: securing
completion of the Kalispell Bypass, expanding commercial air
service, developing the Kalispell Rail Park, and strengthening
passenger rail service.
13
Presenting Tuscany, Italy
2014
Pre-tour informational meeting
October 17,
2013
5:30ó6:30 PM
Join us for the next Chamber international trip to Tuscany, Italy in
spring 2014! The adventure begins March 30 for 9 days/7 nights and
returns on April 7. Highlights include:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Round trip airfare from Kalispell to Florence, Italy via connecting flights
7 nights at the 4-star, first class Hotel
Cappugi (one hotel stay)
14 included meals: Breakfast and dinners daily.
Deluxe air-conditioned motor coach
Four included tours: a full day in Florence, a full day in Siena and San
Gimignano,a full day in the Chianti region, and a half-day in Pistoria
Optional tours to Pisa/Lucca and Cinque Terre and Rome Extension
Tour escort upon our arrival in Italy
Baggage handling outside the secure area at the arrival airport
The cost is $3,249 per person double occupancy. Add $650 for a single supplement.
A pre-tour informational meeting will be held on October 17, at 5:30 pm in the
Chamber conference room. Join us for the beautiful landscapes and the rich
cultural and artistic heritage of Tuscany.
14
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YOUR CUSTOMERS ARE LOOKING
with CenturyLink Yellow Pages Online and Print Services.
How your customers search
for local businesses:
75%
use Search Engines
66%
use Print Yellow Pages
52%
How CenturyLink Yellow Pages
gets your business noticed:
`
Effective
`
Social
Websites
Media & Mobile Presence
`
Online
Listing Monitoring
`
Search
Engine Optimization (SEO)
`
Search
Engine Marketing (SEM)
`
Eye-catching
Print Ads
use Internet Yellow Pages
34%
use Social Networks
Get your business the
exposure it needs to succeed.
CALL 1-888-9-CTL BOOK
VISIT CenturyLinkYellowPages.com
REAL. AFFORDABLE. RESULTS.
Prestige Assisted Living at Kalispell
Coming Soon!
You are invited
to attend a
special premiere
preview of
Expressions!
Please join the team at Prestige Assisted Living
at Kalispell for a wine and cheese social
Wednesday, October 2nd, at 3:00 p.m.
to learn more about
A new memory care community opening Spring of 2014.
For more information call us at (406) 756-1818
www.PrestigeCare.com
Prestige Senior Living
Prestige Assisted Living at Kalispell
125 Glenwood Drive
Kalispell, MT. 59901
Building Blocks
to Strengthen
Your Business
TIME:
8:30 am - 9:30 am
LOCATION: Kalispell Chamber of Commerce
15 Depot Park, Kalispell
RSVP:
Mora McCarthy - MMcCarthy@mt.gov
NOTE: SEATING IS LIMITED
An educational series to help employers
understand the tools to grow your business
and your employees.
These sessions are provided at No Cost!
S CHEDULE FOCUSES ON H UMAN R ESOURCE SESSIONS DESIGNED FOR B USINESS OWNERS ,
H UMAN R ESOURCE A SSISTANTS , MANAGERS , SUPERVISORS WHO WOULD LIKE TO INCREASE
THEIR KNOWLEDGE TO MANAGE B USINESS & PERSONNEL ISSUES .
October 3 STRATEGIC GROWTH: 1 HOUR 2 PLAN Business planning does not need to be complicated to be
Week 1
effective. Develop a business growth plan that fits on a single sheet of paper that helps you chart an
immediate course & action plans. Quickly identify strategies, priorities, actions & available resources to
move your business forward. Who should sit in? Any individual who wants to set the direction of their
organization.
Presenter: Bill Nicholson, Field Engineer, Montana Manufacturing Extension Center
October 10 DISPELLING THE MYTHS SURROUNDING THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT (OBAMACARE) FOR SMALL
Week 2
BUSINESS For many small businesses, providing health benefits is the key to recruiting and retaining
the best employees. The law creates some new tax incentives to help small businesses with 49 or
fewer employees to offer health insurance coverage to their employees for the first time — or maintain
the coverage you may already be offering.
Presenter: Jim Nys, Human Resource Management Consultant, Personnel Plus! Consulting
Services
October 17 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE RISKS FOR EMPLOYERS Find out what puts your business at risk for
audits and fines & what causes increases in your unemployment insurance. Learn cost saving tips &
what you can do to prevent improper payments.
Week 3
Presenter: Joseph Reiner, Field Representative, Unemployment Insurance Division
October 24 FRONT OFFICE SAFETY & SECURITY Unexpected negative events impact organizations of all types
Week 4
and can have devastating effects, and it is likely that your role in responding to these events is greater
now than ever. Yet, few people have received formal emergency management education or training in
how to best fulfill their responsibilities when there is a threat to safety and security. You just can’t
afford to be unprepared when people’s safety and the security of your business is on the line.
Presenter: Deputy Travis Bruyer, Community Resource Officer, Flathead County Sheriff’s
Office
MADE POSSIBLE BY:
Flathead
Invites you to attend the 2013 Timber Tour
Produced in association with
Montana Forest Product Industry Week
and the
Associated Chambers of the Flathead
Thursday, October 24, 2013
1:00—5 PM
12:30
12:45
1:00
1:30
3:00
3:15
4:45
5:00
Bus arrives at Kalispell Chamber, 15 Depot Park, Kalispell
Start boarding
Travel to FH Stoltze,
Grand Opening of FH Stoltze co-generation facility and tour
Travel to Plum Creek Evergreen
Tour Plum Creek Evergreen Plant
Return to Kalispell Chamber
Arrive Kalispell Chamber

Bus departs and returns from the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce

Due to limited seating, your reservation is required by Friday, October 18,
2013. You can register online, call 758-2803 or
email info@kalispellchamber.com
The purpose of the Timber Tour is to inform the public about the value and importance of natural
resources to our economy and quality of life.
Timber management provides multiple benefits, including forest health and community prosperity.
NOMINATION FORM
BUSINESSMAN and
BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Information about Nominee:
Name: ________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________
Occupation: ____________________________________________
Information about Nominator:
Name: ________________________________________________
Contact Phone Number: __________________________________
Businessman and Businesswoman
This award recognizes a man and woman who are outstanding
business leaders. As owners or managers of member businesses, these
individuals and their businesses have made a positive contribution to our
local economy. They utilize sound business practices with their clientele,
employees, and vendors, and are respected among their peers.
Directions
Describe on the reverse of this form the reasons you believe your nominee deserves to be
recognized as Businessman or Businesswoman of the Year. Use additional sheets if
necessary. Nominators are encouraged to submit nominations from other persons who
support selection of the Nominee. Submissions must be legible and complete in order to
be considered.
The Selection Committee will consist of representatives of the Chamber and past
Businessmen and Businesswomen of the Year. The Selection Committee reserves the
right to reject incomplete nomination forms and its selection is final.
Deadline for submitting forms: Friday, October 4, 2013
Return form to: Kalispell Area Chamber of Commerce
15 Depot Park
Kalispell, MT 59901
PLEASE
COMPLETE
REVERSE
SIDE OF NOMINATION
FORM
Please complete
reverse
side of nomination
form or click here.
INFORM ABOUT NOM INEE
NOMINEE IS AN OWNER OR MANAGER OF A MEMBER BUSINESS:
YES / NO (circle one)
NOMINEE'S ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS A BUSINESS PERSON:
NOMINEE'S POSITIVE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY AND LOCAL
ECONOMY:
ORGANIZATION(S) THE NOMINEE BELONGS TO AND POSITIONS HELD:_ __
EXAMPLES OF OUTSTANDING BUSINESS/COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP: _______
HONORS RECEIVED BY NOMINEE FOR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:
WHICH ACTIVITES WERE OUTSIDE SCOPE OF EMPLOYMENT ____________
PHILANTHROPIC CONTRIBUTIONS:
OTHER FACTORS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED: ________________________
R e v i s e d A ug us t , 2 0 1 3 NOMINATION FORM
42nd GREAT CHIEF
Information about Nominee:
Name: _____________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________
Occupation:
Information about Nominator:
Name:
Contact Phone Number: ______________________________________
Great Chief
The oldest and most prestigious award given by the Chamber,
the Great Chief Award honors civic and volunteer spirit that spans
a lifetime that created a legacy for the community. Great Chiefs have
made Kalispell and the surrounding area a better place to live and work.
Directions
Please complete each category on the reverse side of this form. You may add additional
categories and submit information beyond what is requested on this form. Nominators
are encouraged to submit forms from members of the community who support selection
of the Nominee. Submissions must be legible and complete in order to be considered.
The Selection Committee will consist of representatives of the Chamber and past Great
Chiefs. The Selection Committee reserves the right to reject incomplete nomination
forms and its selection is final.
Deadline for submitting forms: F r i d a y , O c t o b e r 4 , 2 013
Return form to: Kalispell Area Chamber of Commerce
15 Depot Park
Kalispell, MT 59901
Please complete
reverse
side of nomination
form or click THIs
SITE.
PLEASE
COMPLETE
REVERSE
SIDE OF NOMINATION
FORM
INFORMATIONABOUT NOMINEE
ORGANIZATION(S) THE NOMINEE BELONGS TO AND POSITIONS HELD:
NOMINEE'S ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS ORGANIZATION MEMBER:
INDIVIDUAL (versus organizational) COMMUNITY ACCOMPLISHMENTS: ________
DESCRIBE THE COMMUNITY LEGACY(IES) CREATED BY NOMINEE: ________
HONORS RECEIVED BY NOMINEE FOR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:
WHICH ACTIVITES WERE OUTSIDE SCOPE OF EMPLOYMENT ______________
PHILANTHROPIC CONTRIBUTIONS: ________________________________________
OTHER FACTORS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED: