The Bridge, August 2015 by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

Bridge August 2015 | Vol. 18 | No. 12

the

Annual Meeting: Who will be the Legacy Leader?

3 State of Technology Full Agenda

Study Results 8 WorkforceThanks to our outgoing board and committees

Message We’ve been hearing a message loud and clear from Chamber members: That area businesses are struggling to find enough qualified candidates to fill job openings. This led us, along with the Economic Development Corporation, the FargoMoorhead Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, the FM Area Foundation and the United Way of Cass-Clay, to commission a Regional Workforce Study to address these concerns. This past June, the results of the study were released. We are so pleased with the work that Tom Stellman and his team from TIP Strategies did. After months of in-depth research, multiple visits to the region (even in the winter!), focus groups and hundreds of surveys with community members and employers, they presented their findings, which include plenty of data and many worthwhile suggestions and strategies that we can use to solve this problem. Of the most interesting information stemming from this report is the fact that our growth is not expected to stop anytime soon.

It is evident that Fargo Moorhead West Fargo is booming – just look at the rapid recent growth in south Fargo, West Fargo and south Moorhead. Add to that the vibrant downtown Fargo scene and continued developments around the region. Our regional economy is expected to grow another 7.6% in the upcoming five years. Despite the incredible growth, we now know that this workforce gap is affecting all sectors. From skilled trades, including nurses and engineers, to food and beverage service, hospitality and manufacturing. This is across the board and affects all businesses. Now, we must get to work. All five organizations are excited to lead committees focusing on practical strategies and solutions to solve this problem. We need all your help to make this successful and to keep Fargo Moorhead West Fargo an attractive, viable place to live, work and do business in. I am confident that with some hard work, dedication and collaboration, we can solve these challenges as a community, and I know that the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo region has a bright future because of it.

Board of Directors

Events

3 State of Technology Get the full speaker lineup and event agenda

4 Annual Meeting

Get geared up for our fifth Annual Meeting and Legacy Leader award

6 Advocacy Events

Get the details of upcoming Eggs & Issues events and the previous Workforce Study

12 Business Training

Lead with emotional intelligence at August's event

14 Women Connect Get future event dates and a recap of our first year

2 | August 2015

Members

19 Profile

Plains Art Museum: Not-forProfit ChamberChoice Winner

18 Spotlight

Find the best spots to wine and dine in town

21 Company News Read about awards and recognition members have received recently

22 People News

See the latest new employees, promotions and awards

28 New Members

Learn about the members that recently joined The Chamber

Doug Restemayer Jon Riewer Judd Graham Bernie Dardis Chuck Driscoll Thomas Astrup Kyle Dorow Jodi Duncan Don Gronke Katie Hasbargen Peggy Kennedy Norm Leslie Kathy Lewin Paul Richard Steve Swiontek Jeff Volk

D-S Beverages, Inc. Chair of the Board Eventide Senior Living Communities Chair Elect Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Treasurer Indigo Signworks Immediate Past Chair Red River Refrigeration, Inc. Member at Large American Crystal Sugar Company Essentia Health Flint Communications, Inc. State Farm Insurance Microsoft Minnesota State Community and Technical College National Hospitality Services City of West Fargo Sanford Health Gate City Bank Moore Engineering, Inc.

Chamber Staff

Craig Whitney President/CEO Jim Parsons Vice President of Finance/Operations Julie Doggett Information Systems Administrator Darren Dunlop Business Development Manager Samantha Gust Professional Development Coordinator Amanda Hofland Marketing and Communications Manager Stephanie Jensen Graphics and Publications Coordinator Tracy Meckler Membership & Advertising Sales Manager Gail Petersen Membership Relations Coordinator Elly Peterson Government Affairs & Advocacy Coordinator Tracy Powell Director of Events & Programs Bobbi Jo Rehder Events Coordinator Mickayla Thompson Administrative Services Coordinator Julie Yourczek Administrative Support Coordinator

THE BRIDGE (USPS 124-430) is published monthly by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber. For each issue received, $3.50 of membership dues are applied toward subscription of the newsletter. Periodicals Postage Paid at Fargo, ND 58102 and at additional mailing offices. Publication No. 124430. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bridge, PO Box 2443, Fargo, ND 58108-2443; 218.233.1100.

The State of Technology

#StateofTech15

August 26 | 8 a.m. to Noon Avalon Events Center West, 2525 Ninth Avenue South

Senator Hoeven John Hoeven

With the technology sector on the rise throughout North Dakota, The Chamber and Senator John Hoeven will offer the business community an opportunity to learn about the latest technology revolutionizing commerce right here in our own community. The event will leave you feeling inspired and excited about the future of technology and its role within your business as you hear from some of the area’s innovative tech-sector business leaders.

Welcome – Craig Whitney Event Emcee – James Burgum, Arthur Ventures Opening Remarks – Senator Hoeven

Craig Whitney

Jake Clark

James Burgum

Jake Clark, a Fargo 3D Printing co-founder, will talk about how 3DomUSA has brought innovative and sustainable materials into the 3D Printing marketplace through cooperation with companies like c2renew. 3Dom USA was developed from the ground up for 3D printing, bringing decades of expertise together to achieve that goal. Through collaboration with local and national companies, they are paving the way for better 3D printing materials through renewable resources and better manufacturing processes.

c2renew is a start-up company that manufactures biocomposite materials used from agricultural processes to serve in various engineering needs. Hear from Chad Ulven and Corey Kratcha as they discuss what major innovations their company has pioneered, including a soil censor for precision farming and more. Chad Ulven

Dean Bresciani

Shawn Muehler

Corey Kratcha

Many new innovations in the tech industry are coming out of colleges and universities, and it’s ever important to foster education and research at these institutions. NDSU president Dean Bresciani and Miguel Danielson of Danielson Legal will discuss how our own higher education institutions are contributing to the conversation between university and student to evaluate and develop useful new technologies and navigate the murky legal waters surrounding licensing and protecting these ideas. Botlink is a new joint venture between Packet Digital and Aerobotic Innovations, led by Terri Zimmerman and Shawn Muehler, who bring together their combined experiences in energy efficiency and drone technology to offer a new cloud-based drone operations platform. Hear from these two innovators as they discuss the technology that Botlink is developing and how they hope to keep growing and contributing to the state’s tech industry.

Registration (includes continental breakfast) Chamber Members: $35 Non-Members: $50 Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Miguel Danielson

Terri Zimmerman

Event Sponsors

Microsoft Midcontinent Communications Sanford Health NDSU Research and Technology Park, Inc. TMI Hospitality Livewire

The Chamber Annual Meeting

Thursday, September 24 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. Holiday Inn of Fargo, 3803 13th Avenue South

Join us as we look back on The Chamber’s 2014-15 year by celebrating our accomplishments and honoring our outstanding volunteers for their incredible contributions. We’ll share our priorities for the upcoming year as well as recognize our 2015 Legacy Leader. The Legacy Leader Award recognizes and emphasizes the important role and contributions of long-time local leaders in both shaping and serving The Chamber, our metropolitan community and region.

Who will be named this yearʼs Legacy Leader

Watch the eBridge and social media for the announcement in August!

Past Legacy Leader Winners

§§ §§ §§ §§ §§ §§ §§ §§

2014 - Alexander Macdonald & Darrol Schroeder 2013 - Margie Bailly 2012 - Bruce Furness 2011 - Ronald D. Offutt 2010 - John Q. Paulsen 2009 - Dr. Roland Dille & James R. McLaughlin 2008 - Frederick B. Scheel & Edward Stern 2007 - William C. Marcil Sr.

#FMWFam15

Presenting Sponsor

Business After Hours Thursday, August 20 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Holiday Inn of Fargo

Sponsored by 4 | August 2015

Spotlightmedia

#FMWFBAH

Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members

The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors serves as the governing body of the organization. The Chamber’s fiscal year concludes on August 31. The following individuals have reached their term limits:

Katie Hasbargen Katie Hasbargen from Microsoft has served on the Board since 2009. During her time on the Board, she also served as a Women Connect liaison.

Kathy Lewin Kathy Lewin from the City of West Fargo has served on the Board since 2010. During her time on the Board, she also served as a Women Connect liaison.

Paul Richard Paul Richard from Sanford Health has served on the Board since 2010.

Sixteen individuals comprise the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and these individuals work for member firms in good standing with The Chamber. Directors are elected to serve a three-year term and can serve two consecutive, full terms in office. To ensure equal representation for each community, The Chamber serves, residency requirements have been included in the by-laws. Terms begin on September 1 to coincide with the start of The Chamber’s fiscal year. The Executive Committee consists of the following positions: Chair, Immediate Past Chair, Chair Elect, Treasurer, Secretary and Director-at-Large.

Thank you to Katie, Kathy and Paul for your contributions to The Chamber during your time on the Board. Watch our September Bridge for the list of new board members and appointments starting September 1.

THERE’S A BANK THAT STILL REMEMBERS WHO IT WORKS FOR. At Bank of the West we like to start banking relationships by listening to our customers. Taking the time to know you and your needs helps us recommend personal banking, business banking and wealth management services that may be right for you. Please visit us at a local branch or bankofthewest.com for more information. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

www.fmwfchamber.com | 5

Workforce Study What are the next steps?

Join us for our monthly Eggs & Issues event as we discuss the recent findings of the Regional Workforce Study, conducted by TIP Strategies. This study shed light on an issue that our business community has been faced with recently: Difficulty finding enough qualified employees to fill current jobs. Leaders of the five local Sherri Thomsen organizations that made up the steering committee for the study will be sitting down to share the highlights of the study and discuss its findings, including the pillars acting as a framework for action to Craig Whitney move forward. We’ll discuss some of the strategies we can collaborate on as a community to tackle these workforce issues.

Tim Beaton

Jim Gartin

Charley Johnson

Join Us

The Railroad’s Regional Impact and Safety BNSF Railway has played an important role in the region’s economy for more than a century. Today, the railroad serves as a vital transportation link for agricultural and energy industries, and it delivers a wide variety of consumer products to retailers and businesses. To meet the growing demand in the region and to operate safely, BNSF is making significant investments in its rail infrastructure in North Dakota and Minnesota. Dale Trepanier, superintendent of operations, and Amy McBeth, Director of public affairs, will give an overview of BNSF operations and efforts to reduce risk and further improve safety on the railroad.

Tuesday, September 1 7:30 to 9 a.m. Radisson Hotel Fargo

& Issues Eggs

Join Us

Advocacy

Stay tuned...

Tuesday, August 4 7:30 to 9 a.m. Radisson Hotel Fargo

Registration (includes breakfast) Chamber Members: $20 Non-Members: $30 Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

#FMWFEggs Presenting Sponsor

Breakfast Host

6 | August 2015

On July 30, The FMWF Chamber hosted Military Appreciation Night at the RedHawks. Watch for a full event recap and photos in September’s issue of The Bridge.

Advocacy

Community Safety It's a top priority!

Enventis + Consolidated =

COMMITMENT Enventis is NOW Consolidated Communications Fargo Moorhead West Fargo business leaders and community members gathered in fascination at the facts presented at July’s Eggs & Issues event. Held at the Radisson on July 7, the three area police chiefs were present – David Ebinger from Moorhead, Michael Reitan from West Fargo and David Todd from Fargo – and highlighted exactly what is going on in each city. Recent crime incidents, safety concerns, gang activity, police staffing and taskforces were all addressed. Attendees learned first-hand what the major concerns for our region are, what law enforcement is doing about it and what we all can do to help. Each police chief spoke candidly and with transparency. We learned who the major players are in known area gangs and even saw actual photos and social media messages members have posted. We heard statistics, which served as proof that each city is growing fast, and while there is a lot of good that comes with a higher population, there is also some bad that comes too. “Where you have guns, you have drugs and you have cash,” Ebinger said of the drug trade in Moorhead. He highlighted what the police are doing, along with the drug taskforces to control trafficking in the city. This includes how they were able to seize approximately $211,000 worth of street value methamphetamine in just two days. Each police chief also mentioned the need for more officers. For instance, Moorhead saw a 72.6% increase in calls for service over the past 10 years, but in the same time period, only had an 8% increase in sworn officers. “We do not have the resources to address the issues that are coming at us at an exponential rate,” Ebinger said. “When we’re dealing with all these challenges, it’s important to rely on our partnerships because these challenges don’t just stay in Fargo, or West Fargo, or Moorhead; they go back and forth,” Todd said. This led to discussion over the importance of each city working together as a region to address the issues we’re all seeing. While some of the information was eye-opening and startling, they reminded us there is no cause for panic. “When you see these issues, don’t feel like it is getting out of hand,” Ebinger told the crowd. “We’re addressing them.” The Chamber wants to give a sincere thanks to our sponsors at this event, Xcel Energy and Robert Gibb & Sons, for helping bring these important issues and making the information accessible to the community.

Consolidated Communications has roots going back more than a century and is deeply engaged in the communities it serves, much like Enventis. With our combined team, resources and expertise, we will be a stronger company, offering you the latest technologies, services and increased value for you and your business.

consolidated.com

l 701.356.6000

A better experience altogether.

The Perfect Lunch Break Bring coworkers, friends & family to enjoy chocolate & chili for a cause!

Thursday, September 10, 2015 11am - 7pm | Fargo Holiday Inn live music

silent auction

jar raffle

Get your tickets today!

$15 Adults ($13 online) $5 Children (ages 6-12) (701) 232-2547 or visit www.ywcacassclay.org Chili Sponsor:

www.fmwfchamber.com | 7

Advocacy

Regional Workforce Study Results Revealed

There’s no doubt about it: The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area is booming. We’re seeing new businesses opening up and more housing going up at an incredible rate. At the same time, our unemployment is among the lowest in the country and quality of life is among the highest. It is quite an exciting time to live in this community. Yet, we heard a common problem from many of our member businesses: They’re struggling to find enough qualified candidates to fill all of the current employment openings. When we spoke with other area organizations, they echoed the same sentiments. This was the catalyst for the recent comprehensive Regional Workforce Study that five area organizations teamed up to commission. The Chamber, along with the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, FM Area Foundation and United Way of Cass-Clay, with a group of area investors, hired TIP Strategies to come in, study and strategize how we can collectively tackle this issue. On June 18 at the Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead, we held an event to reveal the study’s findings and suggestions. Tom Stellman from TIP Strategies lead the presentation.

The Facts

As of the study, the area had about 6,700 jobs posted online, which didn’t even include openings that were not posted. The number of jobs in the area increased by 24% in the past 10 years, but nationally there was only a 5% increase in the same period. It’s expected that the regional economy will continue to grow another 7.6% in the next five years. In those five years, the region is expected to see at least 30,000 new job openings. Of those, 11,000 will be new jobs and the rest will be replacements. The majority of all those will be in the lower-end skill and pay level, where typical applicants may struggle with housing, transportation and day care. The area’s labor force participation rate of 75% is significantly higher than the national average of 63%. We also have a higher laborshed, as workers are commuting in from 11 surrounding counties. There is a mismatch between the current job openings and the degrees being awarded at area colleges and universities. The occupational groups with the highest demand in our region are hospitality and tourism, business, marketing, health science and transportation; but the top fields of study are nursing, business and management, liberal arts, educations and psychology. The workforce gap we’re seeing is affecting all business sectors, from skilled trades, including health care and engineering, to food and beverage service, manual labor, hospitality and services, manufacturing, retail and more. There is a particular gap in the manufacturing sector. It could be because those old manufacturing skills are retiring with the older generation who did it until recently, but the manufacturing field now is more technical and no longer an entry level job. Around the country, employers are facing challenges filling jobs. This is not just a local issue.

8 | August 2015

Advocacy The Pillars & Suggestions

The study suggests four main pillars to serve as a framework for action: Cultivate, attract, build and innovate. We’ve recently added another to the list: legislation.

Cultivate

It is important to strengthen who we already have in the region. This includes retaining more graduates encouraging more of the population to enter the workforce, and trying to align job needs with students’ career choices. Among the suggestions is to offer a Community 101 course for college students as part of orientation, which would get students off campus and into the community. TIP also suggested embracing our cold and hosting a winter festival to show that we are still a fun, vibrant community year-round.

Attract

We need to work at bringing new talent into the region and telling our story by making Fargo Moorhead West Fargo an appealing place to others. We must build awareness of what our community has to offer to outsiders and dispel any myths. We could consider a “friends and family” campaign and use alumni networks to bring more people (and former residents) to the area that otherwise might not make it here.

Build

We need to strengthen our current infrastructure to make it easier for lower-income individuals to be able to work, including providing more opportunities and access for them to housing, day care and transportation. Some ideas include a more collaborative non-profit effort to work with these individuals, increase access to and supply of affordable housing and transportation and increase child care spots and offer employer-led child care.

Innovate

We should use what we already have to address this workforce problem. This means tapping into the development of technological and social initiatives across the area. We can engage local social entrepreneurs to have a competition to help solve the challenges lowincome families face, as well as foster the development of technology-based solutions to meet the demand for low-wage jobs.

Legislate

Legislation must reflect the current business and workforce needs, and we should help champion the causes needed to move these needs forward. This could include engaging more directly with policymakers across our city governments, as well as county, state and federal too.

The Plan

Stellman said that he sees the community at a tipping point; one that is “on a cusp of doing something special because there are a lot of really great things going on.” Going forward, each of the five steering committee organizations will lead a team of community and business members to facilitate regular discussions and strategic action plans surrounding each of the pillars of action as we attempt to resolve this gap. Jim Gartin challenged attendees of the event to make a difference and participate, because the time is now. If you are interested in participating, or have suggestions for the committees, please don’t hesitate to contact any of the five organizations. This is a community effort, and we are excited to get to work.

To read the full study and report, please visit our website at www.fmwfchamber.com.

www.fmwfchamber.com | 9

Thank You

Thank You to Our Committees and Committee Chairs!

We are so grateful to the volunteers who serve on our committees, as well as the individuals who step up to lead those groups as chairs. We appreciate your time and commitment to making The Chamber an even better organization and for your help in serving our members well.

Member Relations Ambassadors

Public Relations Ambassadors

“Thank you to Rob Gramer of the Moorhead Youth Hockey Association for serving as chair for the Membership Relations committee. Your guidance and leadership has helped us be a stronger committee to better assist our members.” -Gail Petersen, Membership Relations Coordinator Members of the Membership Relations committee include Austen Schauer, Park Christian School; Charline King; Cora Turner, Fargo Sleep Inn & Suites; Dena Bennett, Thrivent Financial-Red River Financial Group; Derek Drege, Thrivent Financial Red River Financial Group; Emmett Worth, Gate City Bank; Erica Johnsrud, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River Valley; Jan Monda, Warner and Company Insurance; Jeannie Camarillo, Anne Carlsen Center; Jessica Ueland, CHARISM Neighborhood Centers; Jodi Urlacher, Realty Executives North Plains; Jolynn Kaldor, InterOffice; Karen Harrington, Fargo Sleep Inn & Suites; Karl Warner, New York Life Insurance Company/NYLife; Kriss Burns, VOLT Workforce Solutions; Lorelle Olson, Bremer Bank, N.A.; Shane Brewer, Gate City Bank; Tammy Askew, VISIONBank.

10 | August 2015

“Thank you to Kayla Beehler from BioLife Plasma Services for serving as chair for our Public Relations committee. Your commitment and dedication to this committee is truly appreciated!” -Gail Petersen, Membership Relations Coordinator

Smartini̓s Team Captain: Bryan McClean, Farmers Insurance Group Ambassadors: Carol Seefeldt, Wired Up!; Cristina McCoy, Element Fargo; Jason Semerad, NAI North Central; Julie Halverson, Newman Outdoor Advertising; Kathey Llewellyn, TrinSpin Inc.; Lynn Hanson, Artco Promotional Products, Inc.; Mary Johnson, Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center; Emaan Sourjah, Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center; Mike Ronnie, Arvig; Josh Ulrich, Time Communications; Mike Wickham, Starion Financial; Robby Lundbohm, Valley Premier Bank; Scot Hagen; Tate Stephens, Midcontinent Communications.

Curly ̓s Crew Team Captain: Jamie Odegaard, Granites Unlimited Ambassadors: Alicia Stuvland; Trevor Hopkins, Fargo Sleep Inn & Suites; Brandon Geffre, Coaches Choice Corporate and Athletic Apparel; Brian Shawn, American Red Cross-Red River Valley Chapter; Jenne Quarve, Granites Unlimited; Lisa Koehmstedt, Total Imaging; Neil Van Dam, Northwestern Mutual; Lindsey Svir, Valley Mortgage, Inc.; Sandra Buchholz, Sagency; Sheila Bentz; Weldon Roberts, United Blood Systems.

JJ Lifesavers Team Captain: Janelle Jamison, BioLife Plasma Services Ambassadors: Ben Woessner, Eide Bailly LLP; Zach McBeain, Eide Bailly LLP; Brian Heger, 702 Communications; Brian Kingsley, Baymont Inn & Suites; Joe Larson, Waddell & Reed Financial Services; Kira Odenbach, Homewood Suites by Hilton; Kristine Mutegi, Home2 Suites by Hilton; Casey Cole, Hilton Garden Inn Fargo; Kevin Spaulding, Summit Group Software; Larry Olson, Talent Productions; Melvin Whitney, Consolidated Communications; Melinda Snider, Consolidated Communications; Sara Hawes, Forum Communications Printing; Kylie Seaberg, Forum Communications Printing; Steve Asche, Thrivent Financial-Red River Financial Associates.

Thank You #Winners Team Captain: Patty Mastel, Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation Ambassadors: Brenda Cornell, Job Service North Dakota; Carey Fry, Job Service North Dakota; Donn Groth, Midwest Communications; Jared Ferguson, ND Division of Vocational Rehabilitation; Jill Carlson, Rainbow International Restoration and Cleaning of Fargo; Jill Mattson, Western State Bank; Kathy Olson, Western State Bank; Jodi Buchholz, DFC Consultants Ltd.; LuAnn White, Coldwell Banker First Realty; Meagan Margheim, FM Real Estate Team; Megan Grote, FM Real Estate Team; Patti Cosgriff, Northwestern Bank, N.A.; Tom Thompson, Vocational Training Center.

Experience Counts! Team Captain: Randy Clark, Park Co. Realtors Ambassadors: Billy Nustad, Bell State Bank & Trust; Jay Nelson, Archer Real Estate Services; Jim Deutsch, Artco Promotional Products; Kevin Struxness, RealTruck.com; Lori Hager, JPII Catholic Schools Network; Mark Schlader, NorthStar Technology Group, Inc.; Melissa Stiel-Paul, Fargo Country Club; Michael Charest, Fargo Country Club; Neal Beitelspacher, Dakota Commercial; Nicole Birnbaum, Radio FM Media; Tanya Reis, TMI Hospitality.

Business Training “Thank you, Lindsie Schoenack, of Discovery Benefits, Inc. for serving as chair of the Business Training committee this year. Lindsie has been a valuable member of the Business Training committee for the past five years. Her knowledge has been invaluable to the group. Under Lindsie’s leadership, along with the committee, they planned 12 successful trainings and had nearly 1,600 people attend one or more trainings throughout the year. Thank you Lindsie for your support of the Business Training committee and your commitment to enhance the success of our community’s businesses through a variety of targeted, practical and cost-effective training events.” -Bobbi Rehder, Events Coordinator

Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo “As chair, Amber Vogel, Sundog, has inspired the committee to create quality programming and experiences for our participants like never before. Her hands-on style of leading generated excitement for the rest of the planning committee, which could be seen through the development of one-of-a-kind sessions with interesting topics, great speakers and creative locations. Having served on the committee for the past four years, she is one of the reasons the program only continues to increase in value. I couldn’t be more appreciative for Amber’s leadership and support.” -Samantha Gust, Professional Development Coordinator

Military Affairs “The Military Affairs committee continues to be one of the largest volunteer committees that The Chamber has, and we are fortunate to have Brian Shawn of American Red CrossRed River Valley Chapter at the helm. His steadfast dedication to serving the community and honoring the men, women and families of the Armed Forces is second to none. I am thankful to Brian for his leadership and service to the committee as we continue to grow and support our service members and their families.” -Elly Peterson, Government Affairs and Advocacy Coordinator

Public Affairs “Under the leadership of Jim Roers of ROERS, the public affairs committee has grown in size and activity. This year we have launched the monthly event series, Eggs & Issues, that strives to offer timely and relevant public affairs topics to our engaged Chamber members. Jim continues to be invaluable as we discuss the right topics and bring the right people to the table to provide our Chamber and committee members with top-notch information.” -Elly Peterson, Government Affairs and Advocacy Coordinator

Young Professionals Network “There are no words to describe how valuable Jamie Fay, Eide Bailey LLP, has been to the Young Professionals Network. Her even keeled approach has allowed for the YPN to continue growing in a positive direction. Her dedication to the development of quality educational programming, excellent networking events and one of-a-kind volunteer opportunities are only a few of the reasons she is a treasured member of The Chamber and YPN. It has been an honor to work side by side with you since taking on this program.” -Samantha Gust, Professional Development Coordinator

Women Connect “Thank you, Tonya Stende, Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND for serving as chair of the Women Connect committee. Sharing your ideas and expertise has made this a rewarding and successful inaugural year for Women Connect. Since the roll out of the program in January and under Tonya’s leadership, the committee has experienced continuous success and have had 1,200 attendees. Thank you Tonya for your support to connect women in a unique forum that will build connections, foster long-term relationships and encourage leadership in business and in life.” -Bobbi Rehder, Events Coordinator

www.fmwfchamber.com | 11

September, 2 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn Fargo

Every one of us is a leader, whether it is at home, in the workplace or in our communities impacting and influencing those around us. When it comes to business, 71% of hiring managers say EQ (Emotional Quotient) is more important than IQ (Intelligence Quotient). We now know how important it is to know, choose and give ourselves for optimal success and happiness. Renee Lura and Mike Mitchell from Infuse Solutions will talk about leading with Emotional Intelligence and how emotional intelligent individuals, teams and organizations not only increase revenue and high performance results, but also provide satisfying workplace environments that drive a company’s success. There are key components of emotional intelligence, which once melded together, creates powerful leaders. Emotionally intelligent leaders make effective decisions, communicate with vision, drive innovation and creativity all while connecting with people through fueling energy, modeling positive attitudes and inspiring others to their highest potential. Join us to learn how emotional intelligence can make ourselves and our organizations more successful!

Join Us

Wednesday, August 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Baymont Inn & Suites

Business Training Emotions Drive People. Saying Yes When You People Drive Performance. Want to Say No

In today’s world, so many people are busy. It seems we tend to wear the word “busy” as a badge of honor. Being highly involved in our workplaces, family and community is the new expectation. But let’s be honest: It can feel like being a hamster on a wheel! Both men and women alike may struggle to say no even when we’d rather not commit to something. Why do we do this, especially when the urge to please others can be a significant barrier to personal and professional success? Rebecca Undem, transparency advocate for the Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND and How Mommy Got Her Groove Back, will talk to attendees about saying no, including the common factors that keep you from saying no and the impact people pleasing has on our success. We’ll learn a process to be more selective with opportunities and leave feeling renewed and able to re-prioritize our lives. It’s time to take back your time and make decisions for you, not others! Undem’s authentic delivery style is the perfect mix of heart and strategy, and attendees can plan to leave with a plan for lasting results.

Registration (includes lunch) Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door

Business Training Sponsors Program Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors Bell State Bank & Trust Eventide Senior Living Communities GOLDMARK Property Management InterceptEFT Network Center, Inc. Wanzek Construction, Inc.

12 | August 2015

Annual Chamber Challenge Golf Outing Features Superheros Fun

Last month, we hosted our annual golf outing at Oxbow Golf & Country Club. The sold-out event featured a superheroes theme that members celebrated by wearing fun costumes. Unfortunately, we were rained out midway through the event, but that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop participants and sponsors from having a good time!

Helicopter Golf Ball Drop Winner Casey Cole

Thank You to Our Sponsors! Leader Board Sponsor

Driving Range Sponsor

Snack Cart Sponsors

Beverage Cart Sponsors

Consolidated Communications InterceptEFT

JLG Architechts Wanzek Construction, Inc.

Tee Box/Hole Sponsors

702 Communications Anderson & Fercho, PLLC Arvig Cass County Electric Cooperative, Inc. Choice Financial DFC Consultants, Ltd. D-S Beverages, Inc. Eide Bailly LLP Eventide Senior Living Communities

Express Employment Professionals Fargo Force Fargo Jet Center, Inc. First International Bank & Trust FRSecure, LLC GOLDMARK Property Management Healing Arts Chiropractic Home2 Suites by Hilton McGough Construction

Valet Sponsor

Helicopter Golf Ball Drop

Minnesota State University Moorhead Mortenson Construction Network Center, Inc. Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center Sanford Health Stoneridge Software Town & Country Credit Union VOLT Workforce Solutions

www.fmwfchamber.com | 13

Women Connect

The construction industry has been stereotypically dominated by men. With a changing workforce and specifically the challenges in the construction industry, more women are entering these roles and challenging the stereotype. One such example is Joanna Slominski, construction executive for Mortenson Construction, who is in charge of the Sanford Fargo Medical Center. Find out more about the challenges of being a “Woman in a Man’s World.” Slominski has been a leader in the construction industry for 11 years. Despite the fact that less than 3% of the construction workforce is made up of women, Slominski has risen through the ranks at Mortenson and is currently one of four female construction executives. She is currently managing the new Sanford Health, Fargo Moorhead’s largest construction project and one of the top 10 largest health care construction projects in the nation. As a construction executive, Slominski plans, organizes, staffs and oversees construction and manages the $375 million construction budget. The project is expected to involve 700 to 800 workers throughout construction.

Dr. Anne Blackhurst, president at Minnesota State University Moorhead, has more than 30 years of higher education and leadership experience, and this September she brings her expertise to Women Connect. Blackhurst served as provost and senior vice president at MSUM before becoming the 11th president in 2014. She is a marathon runner who uses running as a metaphor for understanding and enhancing leadership. This event will focus on taking a long-term perspective on career and leadership development. Blackhurst will share the insights she wishes she had known early in her own career and how she has incorporated those lessons into her current leadership role to increase her effectiveness and longevity. She will also discuss lessons learned through training and running marathons and how those lessons apply to leadership and leadership development. Join us and learn strategies to help you prioritize and gain tools to maintain physical, mental and emotional stamina for great leadership.

Join Us

Tuesday, September 22 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m. Avalon Events Center West

Leading for the Long Run

Tuesday, August 25 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m. Avalon Events Center West

Woman in a Manʼs World

Registration Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door

onnect

#FMWFWC

omen. Business. Life.

Presenting Sponsors

14 | August 2015

Supporting Sponsors

Eide Bailly LLP Essentia Health Gate City Bank

Sanford Health Vogel Law Firm

Women Connect

First Year a HUGE Success! As we wrap up the first year of hosting The Chamber’s new Women Connect event series, we are overwhelmed at the response it has gotten. Within announcing the first event and kick-off in January, we had over 1,200 unique attendees. Our speakers have included a host of amazingly talented women sharing their stories and secrets to success with us. It’s safe to say that they’ve inspired attendees and helped to pursue their passions, be effective business leaders and be the best in our workplaces and in our lives. We give a huge thank you to all the speakers, attendees, sponsors, committee members and supporters of Women Connect. We also owe a special thank you to Tonya Stende from the Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND for serving as chair of the committee, and Pam McGee from Minnesota State University Moorhead for serving as vice chair. Their hard work and dedication has no doubt helped Women Connect be such a success. We are so proud of the successes Women Connect saw in its first year and are even more excited to roll out another year of great speakers and events. Watch our website as we announce future events!

Here’s what a few attendees had to say about our first year of Women Connect events:

AMAZING women

The speaker was , full of Also, the connections I was able to make with other were

energy!

great!

CONNECTING with people helps you find your .

passion

June Women Connect Cris Linnares inspired the crowd and spoke about Connecting with Passion at June’s Women Connect event at the Avalon Events Center West. Linnares, founder of Women’s Impact and Brazilian psychotherapist, shared her own struggle with depression and loneliness upon her move to Fargo, was able to overcome and learned to live a passionate life. Engaging and funny, Linnares shared – and laughed – with attendees tips on building your passion, what questions to ask yourself, challenges to connect with others, and had plenty of inspiring takeaways for all that came. The event was topped off with delicious cupcakes and a fun social hour. We thank the Avalon for hosting the event, Linnares for sharing her wisdom, Tonya Stende for the introduction, our planning committee and all the sponsors. It was another great event for the books!

EVERYTIME we go, I feel like I

take a little strenth and

empowerment with me.

www.fmwfchamber.com | 15

YEA!

National YEA! Winner Visits Area

Kayla Abramowitz,Chief Kid Officer of Kayla Cares 4 Kids, steals the hearts of Fargo Moorhead West Fargo.

The Chamber is thrilled and honored to have hosted the national winner of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) in our area last month. On July 8, Kayla Abramowitz and her mom Andrea had a full day’s worth of activities and events around the FMWF region. Kayla is just 13 years old and lives in Palm Beach Garden, Florida. She created Kayla Cares 4 Kids two years ago as a non-profit to collect and donate entertainment and educational materials, such as DVDs and video games, to hospitals around the country. She started it as a way to help other kids have more fun and be less bored during their hospital stays, which is something she has first-hand experience with herself. Her organization grew quickly, and even though it started in her home state, before long she had more items to donate than places to give them to in Florida, so she expanded. Kayla Cares 4 Kids has now donated in 45 states, but she has a plan to soon be in all 50. During her visit here, Kayla first spoke at 1 Million Cups, which was held at The Stage at Island Park in Fargo. She gave a presentation about her company and then had a Q&A with host Greg Tehven and audience members. The event was high-energy, fun and inspirational. It was Chamber Day and Kid’s Day at 1 Million Cups, and free coffee and juice boxes were served. To say Kayla wowed the crowd would be an understatement. In fact, she even earned a standing ovation – only the second one at that event! Kayla spoke with the confidence, eagerness and the professionalism that many adults can only wish they had, and she engaged the crowd with her savvy business sense. Her words elicited much applause, including this quote about how she prepares for speaking in front of a big group of people: “A lot of people tell me to imagine people in their underwear and that does not work, so don’t do that. I just imagine everyone on my level, and that they’re all here to support me and not go against me. If I imagine everyone being here for me, then I am open to speaking about my organization because I love it and others will love it too.” She then came back to The Chamber offices and got to spend time with our current local YEA students over lunch and share her experience with the program. Kayla then met up with Chuck Armstrong, the chief legislative officer for Pawn America, who she previously met at the national YEA competition in Washington, D.C. Because of the relationship that formed from there, he now serves as ambassador for Kayla Cares 4 Kids in the four-state region here. He was instrumental in the second half of Kayla’s visit, as he collected and delivered all the items for the day’s donations. Together, they delivered DVDs, video games and gaming systems to both Sanford Children’s Hospital (where Kayla even got to meet and spend some time with a current 4-year-old patient) and Ronald McDonald House in Fargo. During her donations, Kayla said that when she sees somebody light up because of a game or DVD, it makes her world go ‘round knowing that she helped make someone happy because of her organization. After the day’s promotional events, Kayla got some down time to see the FMWF area and have some fun at Scheel’s All Sports, Inc. and Sky Zone. Kayla made the news in several different outlets and definitely helped to spread a lot of cheer and inspiration throughout our region. She repeated to us several times how great of an experience she was having here, and we thank everyone who helped make her visit possible. We are so happy she came and we wish both her organization, and Kayla herself lots of success in her very bright future.

About YEA! The Chamber’s YEA program is the first in the state and one of few in the region. YEA partners with Chambers across the country to help young entrepreneurs start their business from the ground up. Students in the program get to develop the skills necessary to launch their own real business or social movement and hear from local entrepreneurs to develop their ideas. Our program is still accepting applications and will begin in September. If you know a great student in grades 6-12 or are interested in learning more, please contact Elly Peterson at epeterson@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0512.

16 | August 2015

YPN Program Sponsors

Events

YPN at Eggs & Issues: Next Steps After Workforce Study Tuesday, August 4 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Radisson Hotel Fargo, 201 Fifth Street North

Recently, the Regional Workforce Study shined a light on a very unique problem: difficulty finding employees to fill current jobs. The leaders of five local organizations that made up the steering committee for the study will be sharing the findings and action steps for moving forward. We’ll discuss strategies we can collaborate as a community to tackle these workforce issues. Registration (includes breakfast) YPN Members: $20 | Non-Members: $30 Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Third Annual YPN Golf Scramble

Thursday, August 13 | 5:30 p.m. sign in | 6 p.m. start The Meadows Golf Course, 401 34th Street South, Moorhead Meet at 5:30 p.m. to be placed in a group of four. Not a golfer? No need to worry! We’ll place you with an experienced golfer to help you learn the game. This is a perfect opportunity to build your network, play golf and have a good time. Scramble starts at 6 p.m. on the nose.

#FMWFYPN

Off the Clock Sponsor

Registration YPN Members $45 | Non-Members $50 Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Off the Clock Wednesday, August 19 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Frank̓s Lounge, 2579 53rd Avenue South, Fargo Come check out one of south Fargo’s newest hot spots, Frank’s Lounge! Join us for socializing and networking as we check out this fun location. As usual, appetizers will be provided, but drinks are on your own. Registration Free, no registration required.

One to Watch

Niketa Kulser, Accounting Manager, CPA at MAC’s Inc. Were you one of the lucky ones who was able to participate in this year’s Corporate Cup? If so, then it’s high time you find out why the event was so successful: the 2015 planning committee chair, Niketa Kusler! Kusler’s eye for detail and pride in providing great programming were highlighted at this year’s event. Active not only on the Corporate Cup Planning committee, but also the YPN Leadership committee, she continues to offer her bright ideas to make our organization even better.

YPN

Young Professionals Network engage

develop

connect

www.fmwfchamber.com | 17

Member Spotlight

Dining Around the Town.

The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Metro area is growing fast with new businesses, especially restaurants and night clubs. Our region has many great offerings to eat, drink and socialize. Check out our list of options for the next time you wine or dine! CASUAL DINING Alibi Lounge & Casino vistainnfargo.com

Herd & Horns Bar and Grill herdandhorns.com

Sideststreet Grille & Pub sidestreetpubfargo.com

Osaka Sushi & Hibachi osakausa.com

Hi Ho South 701.280.9505

Smiling Moose Deli smilingmoosedeli.com

Panda Express pandaexpress.com

Hi Ho Tavern & Café hihotavern.com

Space Aliens Grill and Bar spacealiens.com

Qdoba Mexican Grill qdoba.com

J L Beers jlbeers.com

Spitfire Bar & Grill spitfirebarandgrillfargo.com

Romo’s Tacos 701.364.9757 | 701.364.9757

Labby’s Grill & Bar labbys.com

Usher’s House ushershouse.com

Longhorn Steakhouse longhornsteakhouse.com

Tailgators tailgatorsfargond.com

Speak Easy Restaurant & Lounge speakeasyrestaurant.com

Mill’s Lounge 218.233.9871

TNT’s Diner 701.277.7062

Mom’s Kitchen, Inc. 701.235.4460

The Toasted Frog toastedfrog.com

Dempsey’s Public House dempseyspublichouse.com

Moorhead Billiards/ Rail Bar & Café 218.205.2328

Village Inn villageinnrestaurants.com

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit dickeys.com

Noodles & Company noodles.com

COFFEE – TEA Babb’s Coffee House babbscoffeehouse.com

The District Warehouse & Kitchen TheDistrictND.com

O’Kelly’s okellys.net

Beans Coffee Bar beansfargo.com

Old Broadway theoldbroadway.com

Luna Coffee & Tea Co. lunacoffeefargo.com

Pepper’s Sports Café peppersfargo.com

Sandy’s Donuts and Coffee Shop sandysdonuts.com

B.T. Pub & Grille 701.277.1968 Barbacoa greatplainshospitality.com Blarney Stone Irish Pub blarneyirishpub.com The Boiler Room boilerroomfargo.com Chili’s Grill & Bar chilis.com CJ’s Kitchen cjskitchen-fm.com Cracked Pepper crackedpepperdaily.com

Divots, Inc. divotsinc.com Doolittles Woodfire Grill doolittlesrestaurants.com Famous Dave’s famouscatering.com Fargo Billiards & Gastropub fargobilliards.com Frank’s Lounge facebook.com/ franksloungefargo Fryn’ Pan Family Restaurant frynpan.net Granite City Food & Brewery gcfb.com Green Mill Restaurant greenmill.com Grizzly’s Wood Fired Grill grizzlysgrill.com/moorhead-mn

18 | August 2015

Pub West 701.356.9378 Rookies Sports Bar & Grill rookieswf.com

ETHNIC Acapulco Mexican Restaurant acapulcofargo.com

Rustica Eatery & Tavern dinerustica.com

FINE DINING Basies Restaurant basies.com D’Vine dvinefargo.com Fargo Cork’n Cleaver fargocork.com HoDo Lounge & Restaurant hoteldonaldson.com Hotel Donaldson hoteldonaldson.com

Sweeto Burrito sweetoburrito.com

Max Lounge maxloungend.com

Vinyl Taco vinyltaco.com

Maxwells maxwellsnd.com

Wurst Bier Hall wurstfargo.com

Mezzaluna dinemezzaluna.com

FAST FOOD Culver’s culvers.com

Monte’s Downtown montesdowntown.com

Erbert & Gerbert’s Subs and Clubs erbertandgerberts.com McDonald’s mcfargo.com Moorhead Dairy Queen moorheaddairyqueen.com Pat’s Treats 701.232.4453

Seasons at Rose Creek seasonsatrosecreek.com PIZZA Blackbird Woodfire Pizza blackbirdwoodfire.com Chuck E. Cheese’s chuckecheese.com Godfather’s Pizza godfathers.com

Pita Pit pitapitusa.com

Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor happyjoes.com

Cajun Café cajuncafefm.com

Smashburger smashburger.com

Marco’s marcos.com

Scobey’s Tavern & Grill 218.299.5484

Grazies Italian Grill graziesfargo.com

Sonic sonicdrive-in.com

Ole & Lena’s Pizzeria oleandlenaspizzeria.com

The Shack on Broadway shackonbroadway.com

Hennessy’s Irish Pub hennessysfargo.com

Subway Sandwiches & Salads subway.com

Papa John’s Pizza papajohns.com

Shotgun Sally’s Rock-n-Roll Saloon shotgunsallys.com

Johnny Carino’s prairiepasta.com

Taco Johns tacojohns.com

Leeann Chin leeannchin.com

Tutti Frutti facebook.com/tuttifruttifargo

Rhombus Guys Pizza rhombuspizza.com/locations/ fargo

The Olive Garden olivegarden.com

The Yogurt Place theyogurtplace.net

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews sickiesnd.com

Spicy Pie spicypiepizza.com Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint unclemaddios.com

Member Profile

Plains Art Museum: Dedicated to the Arts

Plains Art Museum Wows Visitors & Community Even a brief visit to the Plains Art Museum in downtown Fargo is sure to wow any visitor, with the building’s gorgeous atrium, vaulted ceilings and warm wood beams inviting you to explore a host of art exhibits displayed throughout its halls and galleries. A visit wouldn’t be complete without a stop by the Blue Goose Café for a sophisticated and expertly plated lunch from chef Granville Wood, or a trip to the museum’s store for gifts to bring home. The museum’s commitment to the area arts scene and community is what earned them a recent ChamberChoice Award. In fact, they tied with Hospice of the Red River Valley for Notfor-Profit of the Year. Becky Dunham, the museum’s curator, said that they were thrilled to share the award with Hospice as they have collaborated in the past. She sees the recognition as a reflection on the community here and confirmation that they are servicing the area well. As a recent transplant from Texas, Dunham compliments the dynamic arts scene here—and even likes the winters. “When our organization got the award, it was recognition that we are contributing to the visual arts and cultural scene in the area, and that’s exactly why I came here,” she said. “To me, that’s what the award stood for: That what we’re doing is making a difference and that art does matter.” As curator, Dunham oversees exhibitions and growth of its permanent collection and engages in community outreach. She shared that about 75% of the art collection are donations; the rest were purchased from its acquisition fund. The museum has nearly 4,000 works in its permanent collection and an average of 20 exhibitions per year. Last year the museum saw almost 62,000 in total attendance. Longtime area residents may remember when the Plains wasn’t always what it is today. It actually began as the Red River Art Center in 1965 in Moorhead and was incorporated into Plains Art Museum in 1975. It wasn’t until 1996 that it began the move from Moorhead into downtown Fargo. Its current location was previously a turn-of-the-

century International Harvestor warehouse that was originally built to showcase agricultural equipment. In 1997, after a renovation, the Plains opened into what we know it as today. Even since its move, the Plains Art Museum has seen positive changes, furthering its position in the community. The Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Center for Creativity, which opened in 2012, offers art classes, as well as studio and exhibition space. A skybridge walkway now connects the original museum with this 25,500 square foot expansion. The museum also became accredited and a member of the American Alliance of Museums, which means they must meet certain standards such as having climate-controlled exhibitions to monitor temperature and humidity settings to best preserve and display various types of artwork. One thing many in the area may not realize is that the museum offers art experience classes upon request and can host unique teambuilding retreats for local businesses. It’s also available to rent. Some of the most popular exhibits over the past few years at the museum have featured artists Andy Warhol, Rodin, Rembrandt, Red Grooms, Toulouse-Lautrec and a retrospective by local photographer Wayne Gudmundson. The museum is currently showing an exhibition called Bakken Boom: Artists Respond to the North Dakota Oil Rush, which is Dunham’s personal favorite, and runs through August 15. This year also marks the Plains Art Museum’s 40th anniversary, and they have several celebrations planned to mark it this summer and into the coming months. Kicking this off will be two shows opening this fall and running from October 3 to January 2: Picasso: Passion for Clay – Ceramics from the Rosenbaum Collection and Star Wallowing Bull: Transformer. They’re also excited to announce a reunion event for all past employees, board members and volunteers on September 10. As for the future, aside from showcasing more great art, expanding its community offerings and celebrating their anniversary, Dunham says that they hope to collect and exhibit more ceramics, inspired by our region’s rich history in clay.

www.fmwfchamber.com | 19

happier IT Does your busy IT staff need some relief? Marco’s Managed IT Services free up your staff and empower you to run your business more effectively by proactively managing your IT infrastructure and troubleshooting issues. Less IT chaos is better for everyone. Get empowered at marconet.com.

taking technology further marconet.com

#mpowering

A Rewarding Career is Within Reach

TV Production • Ad Sales

Unsatisfied in your job? Daydreaming of an opportunity that will take your career farther and compensate you accordingly? If you answered yes, it’s time to call Spherion® and embark on an exciting new career path! Since 1946, Spherion has been helping individuals connect with rewarding opportunities that keep them progressing in their career. While we are nationally known, we are locally owned and able to provide the personalized job search support you need to be successful.

Midcontinent Business Solutions™ Ad Sales.

Focused. Like me. “As a caterer, my focus is food. So when it comes to finding new customers,

Life is a lot more fulfilling when you work in a job you love. Discover yours today—call Spherion!

word of mouth works fine. Advertising on Midcontinent cable works wonders. My Midcontinent Business Solutions™ rep learned about my clients. Then she placed my commercial on big-time networks that people like my customers are watching. I look like a major player, next to national advertisers, on some of the biggest shows. And business has never been better. Like I said, my focus is food, so when I want to talk to new customers, I talk to Midcontinent.”

See our work at midco.com/business

20 | August 2015

701.298.8300 1.800.888.1300 | midco.com/business

spherion.com/fargo

News

Companies

Choice Financial announced that pending regulatory and other approvals, it is acquiring Northland Financial, with locations in Bismarck, Steele and Medina, through an ownership agreement jointly approved by the board of directors of both entities. Combined, Choice Financial will have $1.15 billion in assets and be positioned as the sixth largest community banking organization (by asset size) in North Dakota. Customers will have access to 19 locations in North Dakota and be served by 250 team members across the state. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter. Teleflora recognized Dalbol Flowers & Gifts for their outstanding contributions and for being one of the top 500 floral operations in the Teleflora Network. This puts them in the top 5% in the United States and they are very honored. Enventis a Consolidated Communications Company, was recently named the Central Break Away Partner of the Year at the Cisco 2015 Partner Summit, held in Montreal, Canada. Cisco recognized Enventis for its exceptional performance in expanding and growing their business the past year. Financial services firm Edward Jones was recognized as one of the 100 Best Workplaces for Millennials in the country by Great Place to Work and Fortune magazine, according to Matthew De Vries, an Edward Jones financial advisor in West Fargo. Edward Jones ranked the No. 10 best workplace for millennials, a generation defined from the early 1980s through 2001. This ranking comes from an anonymous survey of associates administered by the workplace culture experts at Great Place to Work. Edward Jones and the 99 other winning companies were selected based on the evaluations of nearly 90,000 millennialaged employees who were surveyed using the Trust Index, Great Place to Work's employee assessment survey. High Point Networks “Always Connected” announced, has been named to The Channel Company’s 2015 CRN® Solution Provider 500. The annual list, spanning eight categories, from hardware and software sales to managed IT services, recognizes the top revenue-generating technology integrators, MSPs and IT consultants in North America. Solution providers are ranked based on revenue, determined by product and services sales during 2014. High Point Networks placed #417 in the annual ranking. JLG Architects has been named one of the 2015 Engineering News-Record Top 500 Design Firms in the United States. JLG was the only architecture firm in both North Dakota and South Dakota, and one of three architecture-only firms in Minnesota to make the list.

On May 12, Joanne Vieweg, president of the Red River Valley Asperger-Autism Network (RRVAN), presented a plaque to Greg LaFrancois, CEO of Prairie St. John’s. Upon presenting the plaque, Vieweg shared these words: “On behalf of the Red River Valley Asperger-Autism Network, we thank Prairie St. John’s for the support given to those individuals on the autism spectrum and their caregivers and families. There has been increased awareness of the needs of those on the autism spectrum and improved services for them and their families. This is in no small part a result of the support Prairie St. John’s has given and the programs they have developed. RRVAN wants to acknowledge Prairie St. John’s not just for financial supports such as sponsoring the ND ASD conference, bringing speakers to educate the community, and hosting the monthly Lunch-andLearns, but also the willingness to try new programs such as the ASD summer camps which partner with RRVAN for scholarships and the new ASD day treatment and intensive outpatient programs. RRVAN looks forward to a long relationship with Prairie and presents this plaque in appreciation of your support and leadership.” Stoneridge Software has earned the distinction of being named to Bob Scott’s Insights Top 100 VARs for 2015. Bob Scott’s Top 100 resellers are chosen from organizations across the country specializing in the sale and implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and accounting software. VAR is an acronym for Value Added Reseller in the software industry. The selection is based on annual revenue generated by each reseller. The revenue generated by the company in 2014 earned a rank of 56 on this year’s Bob Scott’s Top 100 list. TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics celebrated First International Bank & Trust (FIB&T) as their Third Quarter Ambassador “Corporate Champion.” The TNT ambassador program allows TNT to recognize corporate champions in our community and thank them for their support and partnership. As an ambassador to TNT Kids Fitness & Gymnastics, FIB&T is sharing their employees’ talents with TNT through collaboration. In appreciation for their service to TNT, FIB&T employees will be receiving many benefits of TNT’s program services United Savings Credit Union is excited to be open for business in its brandnew 6,000 square foot facility in downtown Fargo. A ribbon cutting with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber was held on Thursday, June 4 to celebrate the grand opening. Western State Bank has been recognized by Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) as a top performer in 2014. Western ranked 17th and 14th, respectively, on the list of Community Banks with assets of $500 million to $1 billion.

Your complete distributor for all your paper, plastic, janitorial, packaging, equipment & supply needs since 1918.

www.colepapers.com

Western State Bank also recently made a $3,142 contribution to the West Fargo Packer Backer Association. Western State Bank developed a program to give back to the Packer Backers throughout the school year. During the West Fargo High School varsity boys and girls basketball season, Western donated $2 for each West Fargo Packer point scored at regular season home games. The Packer Backers will use the donation for various school activities throughout the year.

www.fmwfchamber.com | 21

News

People

Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. (AE2s) has hired Clarence Zimmel as construction service engineer at their Moorhead office. Before joining AE2s, Zimmel was a field engineer at John T. Jones Construction Company, and A field engineer on the Water Reclamation Facility and Influent Pump Station projects in Dickinson, North Dakota. Zimmel

Waylon Thomas has joined Appareo as a manufacturing engineer. Thomas earned his bachelor’s of industrial engineering at management from North Dakota State University. Prior to his role at Appareo, Thomas held a position at Tecton.

Thomas

Sabrina Lippincott has joined Absolute Marketing Group as web producer. Lippincott has an associates degree in general studies, math and science from Riverside Community College as well as a bacherlor’s degree in web and social media technologies from the University of Advancing Technologies.

Lippincott

McGuire

Holzbaurer

Tobin

Dukart

Bishop

Absolute Marketing Group announces 2015 summer interns - Michael McGuire, Meaghan Tobin and Brady Dukart hired as client relations interns. McGuire is a marketing major at NDSU. Tobin is a public relations major at NDSU. Dakart is a business administration major at Minnesota State University Moorhead. Adam Bishop was also hired as graphic design intern. Bishop studied landscape architecture at NDSU. Mikel Hess, Novo Nordisk diabetes care specialist, joined the American Diabetes Association community board. Hess has held the position of diabetes care specialist for Novo Nordisk for the past eight years.

Brantner

Bailey Holzbaurer has been hired by the Barnesville Economic Development Authority as the director of the Barnesville main street program. Holzbaurer is a 2015 graduate from Minnesota State University Moorhead where she majored in business administration with an emphasis in marketing and minor in advertising. Holzbaurer also holds a certificate in professional writing. Holzbaurer previously interned at Peterson Farms Seed and worked at Lil’ Bloomers Child Care and Preschool. Laine Brantner returned to Bell State Bank & Trust as SVP - administration and president of healthcare bank. Brantner joined Bell in 2002, left in 2008 to join Lighthouse1 as chief operations officer, became executive vice prisident after merger of Lighthouse1 and Evolution Benefits in 2011 while continuing to consult with Healthcare Bank. Brantner earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Iowa and a master's degree from Baylor University. Christopher Miller joins Beyond Shelter, Inc. as asset manager. Miller has over 15 years of experience of accounting and finance in non-profit and private sector businesses.

Miller

John Samson joined the staff of Boulger Funeral Home. Samson graduated from the University of Minnesota with a major in mortuary science. Samson is a licensed funeral director in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. Samson is a licensed insurance agent in both North Dakota and Minnesota.

Hess

Chris J. Johnson, Choice Financial market president joined the American Diabetes Association North Dakota/ Northwestern Minnesota diabetes community board.

Samson

Johnson

The American Diabetes Association office serving North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota hired Hannah LeTexier as manager of fundraising and special events. Prior to joining the ADA, LeTexier held a position at Microsoft focusing on marketing, finance, event planning and project management.

Exner

Kari Grafstrom has joined the Cornerstone Bank team as a mortgage loan officer. Grafstrom has over 14 years of mortgage experience, most recently holding a position as a mortgage loan officer in Coon Rapids. Prior to that, Grafstrom also was a mortgage loan processor and processing supervisor.

LeTexier

Kris Garberg has joined Appareo as director of sales. Garberg earned his bachelors of marketing from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Prior to his role at Appareo, Garberg held a position at Titan Machinery.

Garberg

22 | August 2015

Clarke

Kay Exner was hired as resource manager and Brody Clarke was named a check & connect mentor at CHARISM Neighborhood Center. Exner has extensive experience in human resources and higher education. Clarke has worked at CHARISM as the strength project facilitator for five years.

Grafstrom

People Jerry Caulfield, Courts Plus community fitness tennis director, will be inducted to the North Dakota Tennis Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 1 at 11:30 a.m. at Tom O’Leary site in Bismarck. In case of rain, the ceremony will be held indoors at Capital Racquet and Fitness in Bismarck. Caulfield

Batajoo

Christy Brink recently joined Express Employment Professionals as a staffing consultant. Brink has a degree in psychology and several years of experience in sales, human resources and customer service.

Brink

Dr. Sagar Batajoo a hospitalist, has joined Essentia Health-Fargo as a part of the hospitalist team. Dr. Batajoo earned a medical degree from the Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. Dr. Batajoo completed his residency in internal medicine at St. Barnabas Hospital in Bronx, New York. and fellowship in infectious disease at North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System in Manhasset, New York. Dr. Batajoo is certified by the American Board of Medical Specialists in internal medicine.

FBS - Creators of Flexmls hires Tim Kramer as software developer for their API Data team. Kramer is a graduate of Gonzaga University. Kramer is the owner and manager of The Thinkery LLC and formerly serviced as director of marketing for UC4 Software and AppWorx Corporation. Alex Popkin has joined FBS-Creators of Flexmls as RETS support and QA specialist. Popkin is a graduate of Harvey Mudd College and Vanderbilt University. Prior to working for FBS, Popkin previously worked as a middle and high school mathematics teacher for eight years.

Dakota CDC recently hired Tyler Byron as an assistant commercial load officer. Byron is a graduate of the University of North Dakota, and has five years of experience in the insurance and banking industry. Prior to joining Dakota CDC, Byron worked at TMI Hospitality as a procurement analyst and Northwestern Mutual as a financial representative. Byron

Dalzell

Ben Armrest has joined Dawson Insurance as a commercial lines advisor. Armrest, a graduate of North Dakota State University, obtained a degree in business management. Armrest joins the Dawson team with several years of experience in the service industry working at Mezzaluna and Rustica restaurants. Armrest

Alex Job has joined he Eide Bailly LLP team as a technology consulting intern. Job is a projected spring 2016 graduate of North Dakota State University where he is currently working toward his bachelor’s in computer science.

Hoffman

Johnson

Toy

Wieser

First International Bank & Trust hires Kayla Dalzell as a loan assistant, Paige Hoffman and Kelsey Toy as marketing interns, Healther Johnson as human resources administrative assistant, and Kristen Wieser as marketing design specialist. Dalzell previously held a position at Bank of the West with the specific knowledge of consumer and commercial loan precessing. Hoffman recently completed her freshman year at Arizona State University, where she is working toward a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Toy recently finished her sophomore year at the University of North Dakota, where she is working toward her bachelor’s degree in marketing. Johnson previously held a position at West Fargo Public Schools in human resources. Wieser was most recently employed at Border States Electric as a web designer. Mike Speicher was recently promoted as general manager at Ground Round in Fargo. Speicher has 20 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, and customer service. Speicher has been with Ground Round for six years in many different roles including cook, kitchen manager and assistant manager.

Job

Eide Bailly LLP congratulates Ross McKnight and Orrian Rich on achieving IBM Professional certifications. McKnight and Rich completed the required tasks to receive IBM Midrange Storage Technical Support V3 Certification. McKnight

Speicher

Rich

Danne Verghis was recently promoted to specialized recruiting group - search specialist for Express Employment Professionals. Verghis specializes in professional accounting, human resources, and sales placements and has been in the customer service field for five years.

Von Hagen

Joyce

Rollins

Holt

Houston Engineering, Inc hires Emily Von Hagen, Martin Joyce and Hannah Rollins as civil engineers, and Gary Holt as professional land surveyor. Von Hagen previously worked for the Moorhead Water Treatment Plant. Joyce previously worked for Interstate Engineering at MnDOT. Rollins holds a bachelor’s degree in byproducts and biosystems engineering and environmental and ecological engineering. Holt has 36 years of experience in the field of engineering.

Verghis

www.fmwfchamber.com | 23

News

People Rachel Nelson hired by OnSharp as a digital marketing intern for the summer. Nelson, a Fargo native, recently graduated from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities this spring, earning her degree in marketing, as well as human resources and industrial relations.

Beckermann

Isley

Nies

Luke Beckermann, Matt Isley and Adam Nies of Houston Engineering, Inc. recently earned their professional engineering registrations in North Dakota after successfully completing the eight-hour Principles and Practices of Engineering exam. Beckman, Isley and Nies are all civil engineers at Houston Engineering, Inc.’s Fargo location. JLG Architects announces the addition of 10 new employees; Dennis Bukowski, Josh Donnely, Samuel Erickson, Brian Glur, Amber Grindeland, Shawn Senescall and Jen Upcraft as project support, Seth Morken as construction services project support, Tom Schultz as constructions services specialist and Kyle Swenson as system administrator/SharePoint manager.

Nelson

Shannon Bienek recently joined the Park Co. Realtors team as a realtor. Bienek earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Concordia College. Prior to Park Co. Realtors, Bienek was recently employed with The Limited as store manager.

Bienek

Dawn Lahlum of Park Co. Realtors was recently named the Prairie Business Magazine’s Top 25 Women in Business in the Northern plains.

Lahlum Chung

Haidous

Hoagland

Tyler Cossette joined the payroll department at Preference Personnel. Cossette earned his associates degree in business administration from North Dakota State College of Science. Prior to Preference Personnel, Cossette started his professional career as a fraud specialist for a bank.

John Deere Electronic Solutions announces the addition of three new teammates: Phuc Chung as product test engineer, and Ali Haidous and James Hoagland as software design engineers. Chung has a bachelor’s of science in computer engineering from Montana State University. Haidous earned his bachelor’s of science in electrical and computer engineering as well as minor in computer science and pure mathematics from Lipscomb University. Hoagland earned his bachelor’s of science in electrical engineering from North Dakota State University. Marco CEO, Jeff Gau, has been named an EY Entrepreneur of the Year in the upper Midwest. Gau joined Marco as a sales representative in 1984, held various management positions before becoming president in 2003 and CEO in 2007. Network Center, Inc. announces the addition of help desk technician, Tyler Sanders. Sanders graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in natural resources management-biotics. Prior to working for Network Center, Inc., Sanders was in the United States Army working for L-3 Communications as a satellite communications field technician and a full time student.

Cossette

Emaan Sourjah was recently hired as outside sales manager at Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center, Fargo. Sourjah has previous sales experience in the hospitality industry and most recently was employed at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota in their marketing department.

Sourjah

Keegan Ahem has been promoted to project manager at ROERS Construction. Ahem has worked at RCI since 2007 and recently graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a degree in construction management.

Sanders

Network Center, Inc. would like to congratulate the following for certifications achieved: Mike Orcutt achieved Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Network certification, Mike Pagan achieved Designing Cisco Date Center Unified Computing certification and Kyle Riveland achieved Managing Office 365 Identities and Requirements certification.

Ahem

Russell Landphere EIT has joined Stantec Consulting as project manager and engineer in-training with experience in both transportation and water infrastructure planning and design. Landphere has worked throughout North Dakota since his graduation from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s of science in civil engineering. Ask

Knain

Noridian Healthcare Solutions, Fargo has promoted Fran Ask to administration project manager and Todd Knain to director of planning. Ask began her career with Noridian in 1994 as an executive assistant in medical management. Ask joined the legal department in 1997 as executive assistant. Ask was named executive assistant to Noridian president and board of directors in 2002. Knain began working for Noridian in 2003 as technical support intern. Knain was promoted to application developer in 2004, team leader in 2005, then to manager in planning in 2013.

24 | August 2015

Landphere

People Jenny Heck has taken a new role at Starion Financial as a compliance specialist in the risk management department. Heck began her Starion career in 1999 as a proof operator and has held various roles in the bank since, including bookkeeper, lead bookkeeper and accounting officer.

Heck

Ulteig has hired Emily Alexander as an intern in marketing. Alexander most recently worked for Clear Channel Radio as promotions intern. Alexander is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Alexander

Dobler

Hetland

Holmstrom

Lee

Liebl

Mitchell

Plowman

Singh

Stephen

Southworth

Stoneridge Software has hired Jeremy Dobler as a developer, Ruth Hetland and Tim Holmstrom as senior project managers, Joshua Lee as senior technical consultant, Dan Liebl as functional consultant, Holly Mitchell as office manager, Tammy Plowman and Ramesh Singh as senior consultants, Larry Stephen as director of project management and Bob Southworth as senior developer.

Larsen

Miller

Schindler

Ulteig has hired Robert Larsen as a graduate engineer in transmission, distribution and communications, Jay Miller as a graduate engineer in substation and Mary Schindler as a graduate engineer in civil. Larsen most recently worked for Bolton and Menk, Inc. as an intern. Miller most recently worked for the Clay County Highway Department as a seasonal engineering aide. Schindler most recently worked for Ulteig as an intern. United Blood Services announced Andrea Hatle as district director of field operations. Hatle has over 20 years of leadership experience in the blood banking industry. Hatle previously held the position of donor care manager, community center director, and regional director of center operations with United Blood Services. Hatle

Gary Ullrich has recently been hired as an insurance advisor at TCI Insurance. Ullrich joins TCI with 11 years of experience in the insurance industry.

Ullrich

Nikle

Steven W. Asche, ChFc, CLU, FIC, LUTCF, a wealth advisor with Thrivent Financial - Red River Financial Group, has qualified to attend the Thrivent Asset Management Regional Investment Retreat. Asche has been with Thrivent for 24 years.

Asche

Nyland

Wanzek Construction, Inc. has promoted Concepcion Mendoza as quality manager, Jake Nikle to division manager – O&M services and Levi Nyland to project manager. Mendoza joined Wanzek in 2011 as field engineer. Mendoza holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from New Mexico State University. Nikle joined Wanzek in 2008 as a project engineer and was promoted to lead project engineer, assistant project manager and project manager. Nikle holds a bachelor’s degree in construction management from North Dakota State University. Nyland joined the Wanzek team in 2009 as a field engineer and has held positions as lead field engineer and estimator before being promoted to project manager.

Peter Johnson has been hired as executive mortgage officer at Town & Country Credit Union. Johnson has 18 years of experience in the financial industry and has worked the last 10 years as a mortgage officer. Johnson holds a degree in business administration from North Dakota State University.

Johnson

Trevor Keney has joined Town & Country Credit Union as vice president business development. Keney has nearly 13 years of experience in the financial industry with 10 years of consumer lending experiences. Keney earned a bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead in business management and a minor in management information systems. Keney

PASSION QUALITY INNOVATION 701.235.1121 • 888.526.1121 16 South 16th Street • Fargo, ND Passion. Quality. Innovation.

www.knightprinting.com

www.fmwfchamber.com | 25

EXPERIENCE Dr. Womack has performed over 40,000 procedures

COMMITMENT

20/20 or your money back*

Larry Womack, MD is one of the most well-known refractive surgeons across the Dakotas. FREE CONSULTATIONS. 0% financing* available. * FOR QUALIFIED APPLICANTS

SAFETY

701-205-4175 Fargo 701-552-1714 Bismarck

The latest Bladeless LASIK technology at an affordable price

ASK ABOUT THE LOCAL BUSINESS DISCOUNT

northernlightslasik.com

Sept. 26

Fargo

Walk MS is a community event that gives hope to everyone affected by multiple sclerosis.

walkMS.org | 855-372-1331

26 | August 2015

DO SECURE

DURING AND AFTER HOURS BUSINESS > SECURITY

> PROTECT YOUR CUSTOMERS, EMPLOYEES, EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES FROM ANYWHERE AT ANYTIME. + + + + + +

Access Control Building Automation Digital Video Fire Alarm Integration Identity Management Intelligent Video

+ Intrusion Detection + Logical Security + Multi-Tenant Property Management + Visitor Management

CUSTOM SECURITY SYSTEMS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE FOR ANY SIZE BUSINESS. 888.992.7844 | arvigbusiness.com This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. ©Arvig 2015

Jensen Hired as Graphics & Publications Coordinator Stephanie Jensen has joined the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber staff as the graphics and publications coordinator. Jensen directs design and production of Chamber publications and marketing materials and assists with managing social media platforms. Jensen graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s of science degree in graphic communications with an emphasis in digital design and print production. She previously worked at Matt’s Automotive Service Center as the marketing communications manager, and prior to that was a graphic artist and prepress technician for Forum Communications Printing in Detroit Lakes. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, running marathons, hiking, fishing, traveling and cooking new and exotic recipes. Jensen is originally from Hutchinson, Minnesota. She fell in love with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community and all it has to offer. Jensen is excited in her new role to utilize the passion she has for the region and contribute to the community and Chamber efforts.

Building a business takes time. At Home Federal Bank, your time is our priority. Our commercial banking services include mobile payroll and account management, remote deposits, wires, cash management and other time-saving tools. But we also take the time to meet with you personally in order to understand your vision and plan for your future.

Brent Wersinger Vice President Business Banking

It’s your time...

for a new bank! Take a moment today to discover how we can help your business.

5675 26th Avenue South Suite 156 Fargo, ND 58104

HomeFederal.com 701-639-0615 | 800-244-2149

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

www.fmwfchamber.com | 27

New Members The Chamber encourages all members to conduct business with each other. Those listed below recently have made an important investment in their businesses and their professional careers by joining The Chamber. Please consider them for your personal and professional needs. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber!

Alliance Truck and Trailer, Inc.

Fargo Antiques & Repurposed Market

Happy Harry's Bottle Shop South Fargo

www.alliancetruckandtrailer.com

www.farmantiques.weebly.com

www.happy-harrys.com

Shopping Centers Fargo Antiques & Repurposed Market offers 50+ vendors selling a variety of antique/vintage or repurposed items.

Beverages - Liquor Happy Harry’s has been a part of the North Dakota landscape and lifestyle for over 70 years with three locations in Fargo and two locations in Grand Forks, including membership in the “Wine & Spirits Guild of America,” an organization of America’s and Canada’s leading 29 beverage retailers. they can effectively advise their clients on the financial matters that face them throughout their lives.

701.282.4116

Trucks - Equipment - Parts Alliance Truck and Trailer is a dealer for new and used semi trailers in the construction, oil and agriculture industries. Alliance also manufactures several lines of custom built trucks. Alliance offers a full service and repair for all lines of trucks and trailers.

AT&T

701.793.3333 | 701.264.9211 www.att.com

Cellular & Wireless Communications AT&T has two retail stores.

Barbacoa 701.318.1080

www.greatplainshospitality.com

701.388.1676

Fargo Escape Room 701.261.5559

www.fargoescaperoom.com

Arts - Entertainment Eight friends, a locked room and only one hour to solve the puzzles and get out! The Fargo Escape Room is the FM metro’s first, best and only clue room!

Future Bright LLC 701.306.7631

www.futurebright4u.com

Restaurants Full service restaurant featuring fusion of southwest, barbecue and Central American cuisine, craft cocktails and unique beer selection.

Financial Services Future Bright is America’s first motif advisor firm. They provide financial planning and investment management on an innovative platform with a strong emphasis placed on client education.

Butler Business Park

Gate City Bank - Azool

612.904.1513

www.butlerbusinesspark.com

Real Estate - Development Butler Business Park is a commercial real estate developer.

Dakota Commercial 701.772.3101

www.dakotacommercial.com

Real Estate - Commercial/Industrial Dakota Commercial specializes in real estate brokerage and leasing, development, property management, construction management, business brokerage and real estate developments. Office, industrial, multi family, retail and land encompass their expertise in an ever changing industry.

Dwyer Law Office, PLLC 701.235.2040

www.dwyerlawofficend.com

Attorneys Dwyer Law Office is committed to excellent service. Through years of experience, they’ve handled simple to complex matters. They pride themselves in responsiveness, which allows you to get your legal needs handled quickly and discreetly; it is their mission to provide practical advice for cost conscious clients.

28 | August 2015

701.298.2870

www.gatecitybank.com

Financial Institutions Gate City Bank has 34 locations in 19 communities across North Dakota and western Minnesota, and has been serving customers since 1923. At Gate City Bank you’ll always receive a warm welcome and friendly personalized service that only a hometown bank can provide.

Great Plains Financial Group 701.282.3100

www.greatplainsfinancialgroup.com

Financial Services Great Plains Financial Group’s mission is to provide the best personalized service to each of their clients, to offer clean and candid advice and to develop long-term, personal relationships so that they can effectively advise their clients on the financial matters that face them throughout their lives.

701.492.7480

HERO Moorhead 218.477.1924

www.heromoorhead.org

Medical Equipment - Supplies HERO, Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization, collects and redistributes donated health care materials to benefit those in need.

Hy-Test Safety Shoe Service 701.277.4891

www.htsafetyshoes.com

Shoes Hy-Test Safety Shoe sells and service safety shoes and boots to all industrial companies that require their employees to wear them. Hy-Test Safety footwear is an exclusive company. They also carry a wide variety of other name brands including Wolverine, Timberland, Keen, Caterpillar, Carolina and Doc Marten to name a few.

Imagine Thriving 701.318.2046

www.imaginethriving.org

Foundations Imagine Thriving, an action project of Goetz Mental Wellness Initiative, educates students, parents, and communities about the signs and symptoms of mental illness and how students can take care of themselves and each other to THRIVE!

Livewire

320.815.1288 www.livewiredj.net

Looking to Do Business?

Check out our directory at www.fmwfchamber.com to search our full list of 2,100 member businesses.

Audio Visual Services - Rentals Livewire provides world class audio, video, lighting, staging and scenery for corporate meetings, concerts and theatrical events throughout the country. They also offer equipment rental, sales and design and installation services.

Northland Fire Protection 218.277.0605

www.northlandfire.com

Fire Safety Equipment Providing sales and service of fire protection equipment including fire extinguishers, fire alarm systems, 24hour monitoring, kitchen suppression system, emergency exit lights, clean agent, industrial fire protection and industrial vehicle fire protection.

Radco

701.235.6671

www.radcotrucksaccessories.com

Automobile Parts - Supplies Bumper to bumper, Radco has the accessories you need for your vehicle. Radco’s website is designed to offer all the high-quality vehicle accessories they sell in their stores.

Realty 2000 701.298.0000

www.tommckinnon.com

Real Estate Realty 2000 specializes in the purchase and sales of single family residences and income properties within the FM area. Tom McKinnon has been a top producing real estate agent in the area market for the past 25 years.

Rookies Sports Bar & Grill 701.492.3456

www.rookieswf.com

Bars/Lounges/Night Clubs With great food and drinks, and our continued focus on service, they strive to be your locally owned West Fargo neighborhood sports bar!

Spartan Staffing 218.233.3691

www.spartanstaffing.com/moorhead

Employment Services - Temporary Spartan Staffing helps companies meet their production goals with high quality temporary employees and best in class service. They specialize in the manufacturing and logistics industries and deliver a metrics driven approach, with customized staffing programs.

Strive Chiropractic 701.893.4200

www.strivechiropractic.com

Chiropractors Curious if they can help you and your family? Find out today...Your first visit is just $47! A Fargo-Moorhead leader in pediatric and family chiropractic care.

You UPLOAD. We GET TO WORK. J&M Printing is excited to announce our new uploader!

This is our version of the easy button. The uploader allows you to add, store, retrieve and manage your files 24/7. You can also proof files through this simplified system. Give us the opportunity to bid a project and we’ll give service like no other... MAILING SERVICES • List Management • Direct Mail

PRINTING • Commercial • Digital • Variable Data • Docutech • Large Format

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS & MORE!

GRAPHIC DESIGN • Print Design • Digital ads & more

CONNECT FOR A QUOTE Erick Roder eroder@jmprint.net 218-205-6671

Austin Roeder aroeder@jmprint.net 701-680-1466

Rich Maras rmaras@jmprint.net 701-730-1623

jmprint.net

Work Smarter Grow Faster Make More Money T PRICING BES

YMENT

EMPLO

BES T SERV

ICE

• Human Resources • Payroll & Payroll Taxes • Workers’ Compensation • Benefits Management • Compliance • Health Care Reform

Call Today— p: 701-298-0226 tf: 1-800-776-4671

Since 1991

FARGO | MINNEAPOLIS | GRAND FORKS | BISMARCK | DETROIT LAKES

www.fmwfchamber.com | 29

Learning More Dale Carnegie Course

Leadership Development

The Dale Carnegie Course begins on September 9 from 1:30 to 5 p.m. and September 10 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. This nine-week training meets one day per week. Recognized worldwide as the flagship course of Dale Carnegie Training, this course will help participants to: • Enhance public and personal communication skills • Become a more effective leader • Display increased levels of courage, confidence and conviction • Control excessive stress and worry

Leadership Training for Managers begins Tuesday, October 6 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. This training meets one morning per week for seven weeks. Dale Carnegie Training is proud to offer participants the chance to: • Manage conflict and change • Hold people accountable • Learn effective coaching techniques • Keep meetings on track

For more information, call 701.476.8811 or go online at www.northdakota.dalecarnegie.com.

Community Events

August 2015

1 5 6

8 12

Rise Above Seizures Walk Scheels Arena

5th Annual Fargo Force Golf Scramble Maple River Golf Club

Working the Land: New Rural Photographs by Jon Solinger Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County

Health Care Reform Update - Employer Reporting Requirements Eide Bailly LLP

Community Partners Picnic Edgewood Vista & Village

Primus with Dinosaur Jr. Bluestem Center for the Arts

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo 35th Anniversary

13 15 20 28 30

Oil Project presented by Theatre B Plains Art Museum

Mental Health First Aid Training First Link

Bike MS: Sanford Health Fargo Ride 2015 Great Northern Bicycle Co.

Creative Voices Artist Talk With Denise Lajmodiere Plains Art Museum

Barnesville Potato Days Main Street, Barnesville

Happy Together

Bluestem Center for the Arts

Send your events to thebridge@fmwfchamber.com to see them on our community calendar!

30 | August 2015

Member Mentions

Quality Auto Body Shop, Inc. offers auto body repair and painting, glass repair and replacement, air conditioning service, brakes and suspension, wheel alignments, computerized measuring for frame and unibody straightening, loaner cars, towing and a lifetime guarantee on all repairs.

The UPS Store offers digital printing, 3-D printing, offset printing and document services. They also offer packing and shipping, freight services, mailbox service, moving supplies and materials, notary, passport photos and all postal services.

Want to learn more? Want to learn more about The Chamber and have a visit from one of our staff members? Contact Gail Petersen at 218.359.0517 or gpetersen@fmwfchamber.com.

Prairie Petals customers are the great beneficiaries of locally grown and gathered wildflowers and prairie grasses. Prairie Petalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; motto is to â&#x20AC;&#x153;keep doing something uniqueâ&#x20AC;? with wild, classic and exotic flowers and plants. No two arrangements or bouquets will ever look the same!

www.fmwfchamber.com | 31

Celebrations Ribbon cuttings are led by the Public Relations Ambassadors, a group of dedicated volunteers who help Chamber members celebrate their business accomplishments. If you would like more information on ribbon cuttings, visit www.fmwfchamber.com or call Gail at 218.233.1100.

ARCHER REAL ESTATE SERVICES Grand opening on June 3 3270 20th Street South, Fargo www.archercommercial.com

ROBERT GIBB & SONS, INC. 100-year celebration on June 4 205 40th Street South, Fargo www.robertgibb.com

NORDIC NEEDLE, INC. 40th anniversary on June 5 1314 Gateway Drive South, Fargo www.nordicneedle.com

32 | August 2015

TLC LASER EYE CENTERS Remodel celebration on June 3 3003 32nd Avenue South, Suite 8, Fargo www.tlcvision.com

UNITED SAVINGS CREDIT UNION Grand opening of new location on June 4 1001 First Avenue North, Fargo www.unitedsavingscu.org

ESSENTIA HEALTH Grand opening on June 9 3000 32nd Avenue South, Fargo www.essentiahealth.org

Celebrations

BELLERUD TRUCKING 60th anniversary on June 9 4520 19th Avenue Southwest, Fargo www.bellerudtransport.com

WEST FARGO PARK DISTRICT Grand opening of new pool on June 11 131 Sixth Avenue East, West Fargo www.wfparks.org

REGUS Grand opening on June 11 3523 45th Street South, Suite 100, Fargo www.regus.com

BETHANY RETIREMENT LIVING Groundbreaking on June 10 4255 30th Avenue South, Fargo www.bethanynd.org

OTHERS Relocation celebration on June 11 18 Eighth Street South, Fargo www.othersshop.com

LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES OF NORTH DAKOTA Grand opening on June 15 3911 20th Avenue South, Fargo www.lssnd.org

www.fmwfchamber.com | 33

Celebrations

SIR SPEEDY 20-year anniversary on June 16 123 University Drive North, Fargo www.sirspeedyfargo.com

GATE CITY BANK Grand opening on June 17 950 40th Avenue South, Moorhead www.gatecitybank.com

DRESS FOR SUCCESS RED RIVER VALLEY Relocation on June 18 219 Northern Pacific Avenue North, Fargo https://redrivervalley.dressforsuccess.org

34 | August 2015

HORNBACHER'S Grand opening on June 17 950 40th Avenue South, Moorhead www.hornbachers.com

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS Grand opening on June 17 4711 19th Avenue South, Fargo www.holidayinnexpress.com/fargondsw

WEST FARGO PARK DISTRICT Groundbreaking of Rustad Recreation Center on June 23 501 26th Avenue East, West Fargo www.wfparks.org

Celebrations

TRINSPIN INC. Groundbreaking on June 24 5625 51st Avenue South, Fargo www.trinspin.com

FANTASIES IN FROSTING Relocation celebration on June 26 4501 15th Avenue South West, #110, Fargo www.fantasiesinfrosting.com

WESTEND SPINE AND REHAB PLLC Grand opening on June 25 3575 45th Street South, Suite 112, Fargo www.facebook.com/westendspineandrehab

SANFORD HEALTH PLAN Grand opening on June 29 1749 38th Street South, Fargo http://sanfordhealthplan.org

PRAIRIE ST. JOHN'S Remodel on June 30 510 Fourth Street South, Fargo www.prairie-stjohns.com

www.fmwfchamber.com | 35

Bridge the

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Post Office Box 2443 Fargo, North Dakota 58108-2443 www.fmwfchamber.com

August 2015 Chamber Events

4 12 20

Eggs & Issues

7:30 a.m. Radisson Hotel Fargo

Emotions Drive People. People Drive Performance. 11:30 a.m. Baymont Inn & Suites

25 26

Woman in a Manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World 3:30 p.m. Avalon Event Center West

State of Technology

8 a.m. Avalon Event Center West

Business After Hours 4:30 p.m. Holiday Inn of Fargo

Community Builders