August 2019 Bridge by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL. 22 NO. 12

AUGUST 2019

Steve Swiontek 2019 Legacy Leader

p.6

Higher education update p.12

State of Technology p.10 Agenda and speakers inside

Community Builders

2 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.

ON THE COVER

Legacy Leader:

Honoring Steve Swiontek

Contents

August 2019

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE 7 Chamber Events

State of Technology:

Agenda and speakers inside

12 Eggs & Issues 11 Public Policy 17 Member Spotlight: Starion Bank 21 Business Training 22 Women Connect 24 Leadership FMWF 25 Professionals of Color 27 Young Professionals Network 28 Young Entrepreneurs Academy

2019 Golf Outing: Photos and winners from the event

30 New Members 32 Member News 35 Ribbon Cuttings AD INDEX

Member Profile:

Games Galore Party Rental

7 Cole Papers, Inc.

26 Consolidated Communications

29 Cornerstone Bank

11 Dakota Carrier Network

32 First International Bank & Trust

7 Four Points by Sheraton

22 Homewood Suites by Hilton

26 Indigo Signworks

31 J&M Printing

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

31 Boulger Funeral Home

7 Knight Printing 31 NDSU - College of Business 9 O.K. Tire Retail Fargo

26 Pro Resources

14 Sanford Health Occupational Medicine

20 Sanford Health Plan

26 Starion Bank

For past issues of The Bridge: issuu.com/fmwfchamber.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mark Nisbet Xcel Energy Chair Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance Chair Elect Sandi Piatz Microsoft Treasurer Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank Immediate Past Chair Steve Halverson Heartland Trust Company Member at Large Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Moorhead Kevin Christianson Paces Lodging Corporation, Property Resources Group Shawn Dobberstein Hector International Airport Kyle Dorow Essentia Health

Mike Dragosavich Spotlight Media Inc.

MISSION The Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through leadership in advocacy, education and engagement

VISION The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business and members

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES ••Establish the region as a recognized destination marketplace ••Be a thought leader for the business community and other interests ••Promote business advancement through a bold public policy program ••Achieve organizational excellence to best serve members

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Chad Flanagan Eide Bailly

THE CHAMBER STAFF

Judd Graham Bremer Bank

Brittany Montecuollo Sanford Health Joanna Slominski Mortenson

Jeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

Craig Whitney The Chamber

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Nancy Johnson ND Soybean Growers Association

@FMWFPrez

@FMWFJim

@FMWFJulieD

Craig Whitney

Jim Parsons

Julie Doggett

President/CEO

VP of Finance/Operations

@FMWFDarren Darren Dunlop

Information Systems Administrator

Business Development Manager

@FMWFKatie

Agribusiness

Bryan Kingsley Midco

Ambassador Public Relations

Jan Monda Bell Insurance

Ambassador Member Relations

Jess Almlie Discovery Benefits, a WEX company

Business Training

Stephanie Maier ClayWilkin Corn & Soybean Leadership FMWF Grower’s Association Brian Shawn Midco Military Affairs

Tim Flakoll Tri-College University

@FMWFDarin

@FMWFTyler

@FMWFAmanda

Darin Feir

Tyler Fischbach

Amanda Huggett

Katie Mastel

Graphics & Publications Coordinator

Multimedia Coordinator

Manager of Communications & Marketing

Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager

@FMWFTracyM

@FMWFTracyP

@FMWFAlyssa

@FMWFKatieR

Tracy Meckler

Tracy Powell

Alyssa Ralston

Public Policy

Thomas Jefferson State Farm Insurance Professionals of Color

Carrie Carney Eventide Senior Living Women Connect Communities Caitlin Stoecker Arvig

Young Professionals Network

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. Printed by J&M Printing

Membership & Advertising Sales Manager

Professional Development Coordinator

Katie Ralston

Education Initiatives and YEA! Manager

@FMWFBobbiJo

@FMWFCasey

@FMWFMickayla

@FMWFJulieY

Bobbi Rehder

Casey Sanders

Mickayla Thompson

Julie Yourczek

Events Coordinator

4 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Director of Events & Programs

Manager of Membership

Member Relations Coordinator

Office Administrator

a note from the

PRESIDENT

Reflections on an incredible year It’s August, which means it’s the last month of another fiscal year for us at The Chamber. As our team is full steam ahead on planning the Annual Meeting, it’s impossible to not be proud of what our chamber has done this past year, and excited for what is to come. But first I want to talk about the man on the cover of this newsletter. One of my favorite things as Chamber president each year is being a part of selecting the Legacy Leader award. It’s an annual award that recognizes the great accomplishments of an individual who has influenced positive change for our region, business climate and Chamber. We are absolutely thrilled to name Gate City Bank’s Steve Swiontek this year’s recipient. I have learned an even greater respect than I had for Steve by witnessing first hand his role as the chair of the Chamber board. He has in many ways been a mentor to me. His involvement and leadership in the community speaks volumes, and I can think of no better recipient this year for the year’s highest award. Congratulations, Steve! (Learn more about him on page 7!)

As I mentioned, it’s been another fantastic year. The past 12 months have brought so many new and exciting offerings to us, our members and the community. None of this would be possible without the hard work of our staff, volunteers, and support of members. I can’t wait to share them and celebrate with you! What’s new this year? • A relaunched website with enhanced features • Exciting upcoming events (Psst, did you hear about Peyton Manning on Nov. 5?) • Professionals of Color programming

Being part of a membership organization is an investment no business should take lightly. That’s why we’ve worked harder than ever to evaluate what we do and what we offer to you. While we’re proud of these new offerings, we remain dedicated to being the best advocate for business in town, so going forward you can continue to expect cuttingedge programming, informational events and top-notch networking opportunities, in addition to being a part of a network of others working for the good of the region. So, will I see you soon? I hope so!

• Education committee • Increased advocacy efforts and a variety of public policy stances • Fueling Our Future community initiative • Deals and special offers from other members just for you

Craig Whitney President / CEO The Chamber

• Job postings board • Even more discount programs to save you $$

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 5

2019 Legacy Leader

Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank’s Executive Chair and Chair of the Board, Steve Swiontek, is this year’s Legacy Leader recipient

This prestigious award recognizes and emphasizes the important role and contributions of long-time local leaders in both shaping and serving The Chamber, metropolitan community and region. Steve was selected by a nomination committee based on his involvement in North Dakota’s business climate. A member of The Chamber’s Board of Directors since 2014, Steve also served as president from 2017–18. Steve has spent more than 42 years living and breathing Gate City Bank’s mission of providing a better way of life for customers, communities and team members. A native of North Dakota, he grew up in Edgeley, where he graduated high school before moving to Fargo to attend North Dakota State University. He graduated from NDSU with a bachelor’s degree in economics and military science. While there, he held the title of Student Body President and served as a member of the North Dakota House of Representatives for eight years. It was at NDSU where he met the love of his life, Mary Anne. A management trainee at Gate City Bank, Steve began his first job out of college in 1978. Between 1978 and 2001, he served in various positions at the bank, including personnel manager, branch coordinator and director of administration. From 2001 to 2019, he served as chair, president and CEO. Currently, Steve serves as Executive Chair at Gate City Bank. He oversees the Bank’s strategic investments in philanthropic giving and is dedicated to inspiring the mission of providing a better way of life for customers, communities, and team members. In addition, he chairs Gate City Bank’s Board of Directors. The bank, which was founded in 1923, had 24 locations in 2001. Under his leadership, it has expanded to $2.3 billion in assets with 38 locations across 19 communities in North Dakota and west central Minnesota.

6 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Gate City Bank’s culture and philanthropy, nurtured with Steve’s innovative vision, has transformed the bank into a leading financial institution and an employer of choice with over 700 team members. In addition to his role at the bank, Steve has shared his industry knowledge with various banking organizations through his involvement on the American Bankers Association Mutual Institutions Council and Board of Directors, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Community Bank Advisory Council, Independent Community Bankers of America Mutual Bank Council, North Dakota Bankers Association Board of Directors and Legislative Committee, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Mutual Savings Association Advisory Committee. Throughout his career, Steve has had many notable achievements and is the recipient of awards including the NDSU Development Foundation Service Award, NDSU Beta Gamma Sigma Chapter Honoree, NDSU Honorary Doctorate Degree, NDSU Masters Award, UND Beta Gamma Sigma Chapter Honoree, Outstanding Young North Dakotan by ND Jaycees, ND Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Award and Prairie Business Leaders & Legacies award, among others.

Business and career achievements aside, Steve continues to remain active in a variety of community organizations as part of his personal commitment to make a difference and provide a better way of life. Together, Steve and Mary Anne co-chair the NDSU Capital Campaign. An organization with which Steve is deeply involved, he also serves on the Board of Trustees for the NDSU Foundation and served as chair of the Executive Governing Board from 2015 to 2018. Additionally, Steve is a member of the City of Fargo Renaissance Zone Authority, a member of the Board of Directors at Noridian Healthcare Solutions and an active member at Hope Lutheran Church in Fargo. Those who know Steve say he is passionate, creative, caring…and just a little mischievous with a deep admiration for his family. Steve and Mary Anne live in Fargo close to their daughters and sons-in-law, Julie and Jason, and Laura and Reid. They are also known as Papa and Gama to three grandchildren, Amelia, Miles and Prescott.

Join us!

The Chamber’s Ninth Annual Meeting and Legacy Leader presentation Thursday, September 12, 2019 Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Holiday Inn

#FMWFam19 PRESENTING SPONSOR

Join to hear updates and accomplishments, honor Chamber volunteers, look ahead, and celebrate our 2019 Legacy Leader! Register online at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

MEETINGS MADE SIMPLE At Four Points by Sheraton Fargo, we offer meeting space for up to 100 attendees*, on-site catering, and wall mounted TV with HDMI connection. Everything you need to make your meeting simple. BOOK MEETING SPACE TODAY! CALL 701 364 0000 Four Points by Sheraton Fargo 5064 23rd Avenue South | Fargo, ND 58104 701 364 0000 | www.fourpoints.com/fargo *Number of attendees depends on desired seating style.

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Fulfillment Center Variable Data Printing Direct Mailing Service I-printNow Storefront

Fargo, ND 58103 USA ph: 701.235.1121 knightprinting.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 7

PEYTON MANNING

Featuring…

—Two-Time Super Bowl-Winning Quarterback & Five-Time NFL MVP— Legendary quarterback Peyton Manning has earned his place among the greatest quarterbacks in league history as one of the leaders in nearly every statistical passing category. When he retired in 2016, Manning held numerous records including the most career touchdown passes in league history in addition to ranking first all-time in completions and passing yards.

He has also received numerous awards for his philanthropic work off the field. Manning is a longtime supporter of The Pat Summit Foundation, a nonprofit with a mission to find a cure for Alzheimer’s. He and his wife, Ashley, established the PeyBack Foundation in 1999 to promote the future success of disadvantaged youth by assisting programs that provide leadership and growth opportunities for children at risk.

Tuesday, November 5

Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Sanford Health Athletic Complex

Introducing

Chamber 101:

Connect. Engage. Maximize. Tuesday, August 20 | 4 to 4:45 p.m. | The Chamber office FREE registration. RSVP at fmwfchamber.com. If you’re not familiar with The Chamber, are a new member, new contact, new hire, or just want to reengage with us, this session is for you! Chamber 101 is a laid-back discussion designed to share some of the benefits of Chamber membership and what you need to know. We will walk through events, programs, discounts, online tools and more, so you can begin maximizing your membership right away. Come as you are. Optional networking will follow.

Want us to come to you?

Contact Casey at 218.233.1100 or csanders@fmwfchamber.com to set up a time where she can bring the presentation to your workplace!

8 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

#FMWFBAH

Games of Skillz

Starting this August, Chamber members registered for Business After Hours will be eligible to win real money (!) just by participating in the Game of Skillz at the event. In October, December, March and June, for every Business After Hours registration, The Chamber will donate $1 to the monthly prize based on number of attendees per event. The winner of that month’s Game of Skillz will receive half of the total amount. The other half will go to the final cash pool in June, when we award the total dollar amount accumulated. Please note that we will be moving from six to four events for this new fiscal year. In addition, the time for each will be from 4 to 6 p.m.

Join us! October 7 | Hilton Garden Inn December 5 | Delta by Marriott March 19 | Delta by Marriott June 18 | Courtyard by Marriott, Mhd

Hear Manning’s inspirational story and message at this year’s 10th anniversary event!

The buzz has begun

#VOV19

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Corporate table sponsorships are now sold out. Contact Tracy Powell at tpowell@fmwfchamber.com or 218.233.1100 to be placed on the waiting list. Arena seats are still available—but they’re going fast! Catch your seat now at fmwfchamber.com.

coming soon!

fall 2019

new location 3324 47th St S, Fargo

In the meantime, stop by and visit us anytime at 2224 Main Ave, Fargo! FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 9

2019 #StateofTech19 STATE of TECHNOLOGY Wednesday, August 14 | 8 a.m. to noon | Doors and networking at 7:30 a.m.

Avalon Events Center

In collaboration with and featuring U.S. Senator John Hoeven, join us to hear the latest innovations in technology happening right here in North Dakota. A full morning of speakers will present on the amazing tech being developed and deployed in our own backyard, and businesses will learn what they need to know to keep up in this ever-changing time.

Hear remarks and comments from these exciting presenters. U.S. Senator John Hoeven – Comments on and an overview from our nation’s capitol.

EMCEE

Josh Teigen, Mind Shift – Josh Teigen is a local entrepreneur, ChamberChoice winner, and current President of Mind Shift. Seth Arndorfer, Dakota Carrier Network – Presenting on the technology behind unlimited mobility and wireless connection infrastructure, and why in an ever-increasing wireless world we still need wires. James Brown, Aldevron – Hear how Aldevron is “growing cures in North Dakota” with the expansion of its facilities, workforce and innovative biotechnology products. Dante Battochi and Holly Anderson, Elinor Coatings – Hear about their new developments and breakthrough coatings that protect surfaces more effectively and set the industry standard for environmental friendliness for both commercial and personal property. Dr. Greg Wettstein, idFusion – How their technology addresses the cybersecurity challenges with an estimated 7 billion connected devices and the importance of securing transfer of data.

10 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Greg Tehven, Emerging Prairie and Barry Batcheller, Appareo – An update into the technology and developments of the Grand Farm Initiative, an effort to power the world's first ever 100% autonomous farm.

Peter Chamberlain, WalkWise – How they developed the smart walker attachment that helps seniors, families and caregivers track wellness and screen for infections. Jeff Young, WEX Health, Inc. – Hear how WEX simplifies the business of healthcare through WEX Health Cloud, the impact of business intelligence and mobile technology, and their incredible growth story. Joel Honeyman, Doosan Bobcat North America –

Behind Bobcat’s innovation program, their investment in downtown Fargo, and enhancements to the compact equipment industry.

KEYNOTE

Dana Peterson, Research Education and Extension, USDA – An overview of the USDA’s vision to integrate next-generation technology into agriculture, including how the industry is changing and what challenges and opportunities are ahead.

Also featuring the TechND Awards presentation. PRESENTING SPONSOR

PUBLIC POLICY

Minnesota leaders discuss legislative session Around 100 area business leaders gathered for a Minnesota Legislative Wrap-Up event mid-June to hear from three district 4 legislators, Revenue Commissioner Cynthia Bauerly and Governor Tim Walz. Senator Kent Eken, Representative Paul Marquart and Representative Ben Lien, all gave remarks relating to the previous session. All three shared a positive sentiment about the outcomes of the session, with Marquart summing it up by stating, “We had a very productive, successful session.” Bauerly spoke to the hard work of the legislators and governor during the session, especially complementing the collaboration on the tax bill. Walz echoed the success of the session, but added that he felt he was not satisfied enough to be done. He explained to attendees that many of the areas still need to be addressed in upcoming sessions. The Chamber was honored to have these legislators address our members, and we appreciate the work that they do on behalf of our communities and state.

PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAM SPONSORS

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FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 11

EGGS & ISSUES

Higher education update: July Eggs & Issues recap

We are thankful to have five wonderful higher education institutions right here in our backyard. Over 35,000 students occupy the FMWF area, contributing to our workforce and stimulating the economy. We brought in the institution’s leaders to learn about their work and what partnerships help maximize resources and educate the workforce.

Minnesota State Community and Technical College: Dr. Carrie Brimhall, President M-State Operates nine physical spaces with an annual placement rate of about 92% with a majority of students getting a job in the field they studied. New changes include five ways students can take credit-based courses, to aid in their retention, in 6 to 10 months. “We know that if we are going to meet the workforce needs of the future, we will have to be prepared and continue to be prepared to offer education anywhere and anytime,” Brimhall said.

North Dakota State College of Science: John Richman, President NDSCS is the second oldest two-year college in the country and was recently recognized as a national leader in educating and training. They stay competitive through focusing on outcomes, remaining data driven, responsive to the area’s needs as well, and affordable. An incredible 80% of students graduate or transfer to another college or university, and their placement rate is 99%. NDSCS offers 38 different programs and partners with 200 businesses, entrusting over $6 million in equipment at the campus to enhance learning. They aim to match students with businesses based on what they want to do and where they want to live. Another exciting initiative is their work on a Workforce Career Academy for Cass County to create awareness and career exploration opportunities for junior high students.

Concordia College: Dr. Jill Abbott, Deputy to the President This past year, Concordia significantly grew its integrative learning program. One of these new spaces, a student success center, has been a popular hub for students to learn, connect and build relationships. Another celebration at Concordia came after the success of the college’s RISE campaign, which turned out to be the most successful in the college’s history. Echoing the importance of student focus, Abbott noted that one of the core focuses going forward is increasing scholarships for students. They are also focused on enrollment growth. Abbott told attendees that they have had the fortune of growing the past three years, welcoming one of the largest classes in the fall of 2018. Abbott closed by sharing their new strategic plan, which centers on four goals: transformational learning, excellence through diversity, financial foundation, and wholeness and health of the community.

12 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

“M State’s vision isn’t about the success of our institution, but about the success of each individual student we serve,” Brimhall said. One way student success is maximized is through relieving the financial burden. Around 51% of students attend the institution tuition free due to grants and scholarships.

Minnesota State University Moorhead: Dr. Brenda Amenson-Hill, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs MSUM is focused on transformations and is one of seven universities and 30 colleges in the fifth largest system in the United States. MSUM has an impact of 6,000 students, 1,400 graduates and 700 faculty and staff members, making them the second largest employer in Moorhead. Amenson-Hill was extremely proud of the diversity that the students, graduates and staff contribute to the region. She also shared that the number of students has remained stable at about 6,000. There has been an increase in graduate students, online students and non-degree seeking students. Graduate enrollment has doubled since 2013, and 34% of students are first-generation.

North Dakota State University: Dr. Dean Bresciani, President “Higher education options in the area may be one of, if not the strongest, economic catalysts we have for this area and for this region,” Bresciani said, as he distinguished NDSU for its emphasis on research and need to compete for students on a national level. He also said that out-of-state students are key to success. NDSU has a strong focus on retention and graduation. As Bresciani explained, many times they look at a six-year graduation rate, as many of their programs are longer than four years. He noted that they are increasingly focusing on getting students done faster to help with the workforce issues we face. One way they do this is by minimizing the amount of time students spend in classes after switching their major by putting together major packages that have common courses. NDSU is also in tune to college affordability and is working on ways to see students continue through graduation and into the workforce. They also strive to be attentive to what the economy needs in the area.

EGGS & ISSUES Tuesday, August 6

The Future of Farming: A Look at Autonomous Ag

Kevin Biffert, Fargo Automation; Jake Joraanstad, Myriad Mobile/Bushel; Taya Spelhaug, Microsoft; Greg Tehven, Emerging Prairie

Tuesday, September 10

K–12 Update with our A+ Superintendents

Rupak Gandhi, Fargo Public Schools; Brandon Lunak, Moorhead Area Public Schools; Beth Slette, West Fargo Public Schools

You have probably heard the buzz around The Grand Farm, but join us for this Eggs & Issues to take a deep dive into the initiative! The Grand Farm aims to capitalize on the region’s potential in the agriculture and technology industries to create a fully autonomous farm that will impact the FargoMoorhead Community and beyond. Through collaboration among businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs this initiative will help develop new opportunities and accelerate change to bring this idea to reality by the year 2025. As always, this lively discussion with include time for questions from the audience and we’ll have coffee and conversation to go along with hot breakfast!

Our Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community has always been known for providing great K-12 education to our children, and it’s important to hear from those who lead our districts. Join us for this Eggs & Issues to hear from the superintendents of our three area school districts, as each shares updates on their district and looks ahead to what we can expect in the future. We will learn more about how the massive growth our community is seeing is being handled and how each district plans to continue to provide a highquality education to our students as enrollment continues to grow. This lively discussion will also include time for questions from the audience. As always, we’ll have coffee and conversation flowing and hot breakfast served!

7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

REGISTRATION includes breakfast

Chamber members: $30 in advance | $35 at the door Non-members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Please note: Event prices will change with the next fiscal year in September.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Bank of the West | Beverage Wholesalers, Inc. Bremer Bank | Cornerstone Bank | Essentia Health Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead Houston Engineering | Livewire Entertainment Media Services Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead Minnesota State Community and Technical College Moore Engineering, Inc. | ROERS Wanzek Construction, Inc. | Wells Fargo Bank

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 13

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CHAMBER NEWS

A special

Thank You

to our board, committees and committee chairs

Thank you, outgoing board of director We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Judd Graham, who has served on The Chamber board of directors since 2013. He completes his term as a board member this month. We appreciate all he has brought to The Chamber and appreciate his expertise and service to us and our members.

Thank you, outgoing committee chairs We are grateful for the volunteers who serve on our committees, as well as the individuals who lead those groups as chairs and vice chairs. We appreciate your time and commitment to making The Chamber an even better organization and for your help in serving our members. Thanks to the hard work of each committee’s leadership and members, we’ve been able to grow all our events and programs and support the FMWF business community. The service from each of these individuals is invaluable to the work we do.

Agribusiness

Business Training

Public Policy

Ambassadors Public Relations

Leadership FMWF

Women Connect

Ambassadors Member Relations

Military Affairs

Young Professionals Network

Nancy Johnson North Dakota Soybean Growers Association

Brian Kingsley Midco

Jan Monda Bell Insurance

Jess Almlie Discovery Benefits, a WEX company

Stephanie Maier ClayWilkin Corn & Soybean Grower’s Association

Brian Shawn Midco

Tim Flakoll Tri-College University

Carrie Carney Eventide Senior Living Communities

Caitlin Stoecker Arvig

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 15

2019 Chamber Challenge

Golf Outing

We had a ton of fun at last

Congratulations to this year’s winners!

month’s sold-out Chamber Challenge Golf Outing at Edgewood Golf Course!

1st place

Thank you to all our sponsors, teams

Network Center Inc.

and participants!

Ben Nelson, Ryan Andel, Lori Johnson, Cody Klug

On-course contests

—Longest Drive #4—

2nd Place

Women Chelsey McGinnis

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Cass County Electric Cooperative Chad Sapa, Steve Ratti, John Kuhn, Marshal Albright

Men Steve Ratti

Cass County Electric Cooperative

—Closest to the Pin #12—

3rd Place

Women Chelsey McGinnis

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Moorhead Jon Wepking, Alex Nelson, Chelsey McGinnis, Erika Hochgraber, Blake Hermanson— Hermanson Exterior

Men Jake Lieser

Payroll Professionals Team

LEADERBOARD SPONSOR

DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR

VALET SPONSOR

PHOTO SPONSOR

702 Communications

Consolidated Communications

Fremstad Law

RE/MAX Realty 1

Aspire Optical Co. of Fargo

DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center

GOLDMARK Property Management

Starion Bank

Eide Bailly LLP

Holiday Inn on the Lake

Stoneridge Software

Mortenson

Western State Bank

Network Center, Inc.

Young Professionals Network

Brandt Hospitality Group Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc. Clarity Brain Centers/Cereset Fargo

16 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Express Employment Professionals First International Bank & Trust

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

In 1969, Frank and JoAndrea Larson bought a bank in Oakes, N.D., because they saw an opportunity to help a community full of young entrepreneurs prosper. The bank had $5 million in assets. Today, Starion has $1.3 billion in assets with 16 branches (three in Fargo). We provide a full menu of services for business, private, personal and agricultural banking including investment and insurance services.

What makes your organization unique?

What do you like best about doing business here?

Our strong focus on community is one of our big differentiators. This means empowering our bankers to make decisions locally and giving back to the communities we serve with our time and money — whether it’s participating in Go Purple for Alzheimer’s, serving at a United Way event, or sponsoring the Starion Bank Field at Tharaldson Baseball Park.

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo has a quality workforce and strong infrastructure, making it an exciting place to live and work!

Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now? Innovation and excellence are a large part of our current focus. With the opening of the downtown Fargo branch, we are launching a new chapter in Starion’s story. Our “people + technology” strategy means rethinking the role of the branch in order to keep up with the speed, ease and convenience our customers want and, frankly, expect. All of our branches will undergo a remodel over the next few years, fully integrating this new way of banking.

What is one thing you most want others to know about you? We are a full-service bank that strives to take care of our customers, employees and the community. We like to say that we're not too big to be small, and not too small to be big; we offer all the products and services of a large, national bank, along with the personal service of a community bank.

What’s your best business tip? We all need partners we can trust! Find experts you can count on—a banker, lawyer, or other professional— to assist where you need added expertise.

Member FDICFDIC Member

FAST FACTS Total employees: 249

(36 in Fargo) Year founded: 1969 Office locations: In Fargo:

• 2754 Brandt Drive S • 2525 S University Dr • 309 Broadway N Overall 13 in North Dakota and three in Wisconsin

Leadership:

Craig Larson, CEO Arnie Strebe, President Dan Staller, Chief Banking Officer Scott Green, Fargo Market President

Company awards/certifications:

Prairie Business magazine “50 Best Places to Work” recipient four consecutive years, Vicki Clarke Prairie Family Business of the Year Award from the Prairie Family Business Association, named “The Best of the Best” by the Independent Community Bankers of America, consistently receive 5-star rating (the highest awarded) by BauerFinancial

What do you like most about being a member of The Chamber? The Chamber provides opportunities for businesses to stay connected, learn from outside experts, and integrate into the community. FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 17

Small Business of the Year—

Games Galore Party Rental Offering fun for all ages Bringing an element of fun to events around the region and proving that games aren’t just for kids, Games Galore is the party rental destination for organizations or families planning their next gathering sure to be the talk of the town. They offer inflatable and interactive games, bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses, a photo booth or mechanical bull, as well as banquet tables and chairs. They received numerous recommendations from area events and facilities speaking to the great experience working with president Corey Heiser and his team. Games Galore has been an active chamber and community member since they opened their doors in 2006. They serve customers in eight states and partner with various businesses, schools, fairs, churches, nonprofits and fundraising groups. Just last year, they

18 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

operated over 800 events and partnered with popular local names such as the FARGODOME, RedHawks, NDSU, Red River Zoo, the parks districts and more. Recent expanded efforts include casino nights in the off season and inflatable winter carnivals branded “Fight the Frost.” The latter operated in the four largest cities in North Dakota in 2019, with all rebooking for 2020. Games Galore is guided by values of punctuality and customer service. Corey maintains that those simple principles have been key to their success. And, they continually investigate and purchase new equipment to have an inventory that is the envy of the industry. “Being competitive and driven, I look at each day as trying to win whatever is in front of us,” Corey said. “We want to do better than yesterday.”

MEMBER PROFILE

“We support a lot of non-profits and fundraising groups. We believe that you have to, because it’s what drives our community. Without a strong community, Games Galore doesn’t exist.”

To make sure they serve the markets of their customers well, part of their strategy is to belong to associations that represent the industries they serve. Corey even serves on the board of directors for the North Dakota Association of Fairs and Events. They also believe in giving back to those in need. In 2018, they supported 82 nonprofits and fundraisers with contributions and equipment donations, as well as 270 hours of staff volunteering time in the community. “Our roots are in Fargo,” Corey said. “We support a lot of non-profits and fundraising groups. We believe that you have to, because it’s what drives our community. Without a strong community, Games Galore doesn’t exist.”

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 19

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with Sanford TRUE Save on monthly rates in select counties and zip codes.

Live Life Covered. Call (888) 535-4831 or visit sanfordhealthplan.com/employers At participating providers only; certain restrictions may apply.

SVHP-3543 6/19

BUSINESS TRAINING Wednesday, August 21

Wednesday, September 11

My Job is Easy…Until People Get Involved: Mastering Teams and Co-workers

What Would Bill Murray Do?

How to infuse spontaneity and joyfulness into your world to help yourself and others thrive

Erik Hatch

Owner/CEO Hatch Realty

erikhatch Nicole Turchin

Let’s face it. The people we work with can make or break us in far too many ways. Learning how to connect and interact with your co-workers is essential to future success. You’ll spend up to 40+ hours a week with these people – and you rarely, if ever, get to choose them! At this session, you’ll learn some great ways in which to help one another be your best selves. Erik’s energetic and poignant tips will leave participants with immediate takeaways for implementation. Through humor, insight, and applicable experiences, Erik delivers the right recipe to help professionals throughout the community.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. TAK Music Venue, Dilworth

ON CATI O L EW

These events qualify for 1.5 CPE credits through SHRM

REGISTRATION includes lunch

CoreLink Administrative Solutions

/nicoleturchin

Kurtis Karn

Discovery Benefits, a WEX company

kurtiskarn

Some believe the world has lost its sense of humor in the workplace. Some believe that predictability and routine are the keys to getting the most out of their life. You know who doesn’t believe this? Bill Murray. So, what can Bill Murray teach us? A heck of a lot! It’s really, really simple to have fun in our professional lives (and outside of the office – duh!), make those we see every day feel a little better about themselves, and create the confidence in ourselves to step outside of our comfort zones and do the things we never thought we could do!

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

Chamber members: $30 in advance | $35 at the door Non-members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Please note: Event prices will change with the next fiscal year in September.

HIGHLIGHTS from July

#FMWFTraining

July’s Business Training was all about Generation Z! Heather Ostrowski, Gate City Bank, presented information on this incoming group that will soon be entering the workforce, and a panel of Gen Z’ers shared their own insights into how employers can plan to recruit, retain and engage them. PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

WOMEN CONNECT

Women Connect makes a difference!

Each month, the Women Connect committee chooses a charity to collect donations for so that event attendees can truly make a difference in our community. Over the past year, you have graciously donated over 2,500 items! These donations go directly to area non-profits and back into the hands of the people who need it most.

This year, we collected…. SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

180

coloring books for Rainbow Bridge

JANUARY

540 winter items and 600 books for Path ND and LSS

MAY

socks for the YWCA

FEBRUARY

MARCH

paper towels and garbage bags for the Ronald McDonald House

300+ 3

gift cards and

DECEMBER

APRIL

toys for FirstLink Giving Tree/ Toys for Tots

JUNE

personal hygiene products for Fraser

NOVEMBER

180

towels/ kitchen items

for Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership JULY

cans of kitten food for Homeward Animal Shelter

art supplies for the Jeremiah Program

427

art supplies for Hospice of the Red River Valley

frames/generic purple gift bags for the Alzheimer’s Association

AUGUST

Cleaning supplies for Habitat for Humanity

Thank You

for your generosity!

NEXT ON THE AGENDA:

some time to relax

At Homewood Suites by Hilton®, we know you need your downtime. Especially when you’re away on business. That’s why we offer: • • • •

Spacious suites with full kitchens Free full hot breakfast every morning Complimentary evening social Mon-Thurs* Free Wi-Fi

We know there’s no place like home. But with comforts and conveniences like this, you can still feel at home even when you’re on the road. *Service of alcohol subject to state and local laws. Must be of legal drinking age.

HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON - FARGO 2021 16TH ST N, FARGO, ND 58102 701.235.3150 / CORA.TURNER@HILTON.COM

22 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

WOMEN CONNECT Tuesday, August 27

Tuesday, September 24

Owning Your Wealth

Reinventing Recovery:

Women Connecting to Bring Addiction out of the Shadows

Hannah Sorenson

Kathryn Burgum

Business Advisor, Alerus

First Lady, North Dakota

HSorensenFargo

Your money shouldn’t be sitting around doing nothing, and neither should you! Evaluate your financial health and figure out where you want to be and how to get there. Set financial goals, discover how to make your money work for you and learn how to put it all together to create a financial plan. Attendees will learn why they should care about wealth, understand key terms fancy financial folks throw around, gain confidence and freedom to handle their financial futures, and establish a roadmap for retirement.

firstladynd

Addiction is a disease that can ravage the lives of those suffering from its hand. Its effect goes beyond the addicted though, as family members, friends, co-workers and managers all can feel the effects of someone facing their battle. But there is hope, and the key lies in eliminating the stigma by simply talking about it. At this special session, North Dakota’s own first lady stops by to share her own powerful story. Through her leadership, she will humanize these challenges and inspire innovation, hope and collaboration to end stigma and promote a culture of recovery.

Please consider supporting Habitat for Humanity by bringing cleaning supplies (spray cleaners, wipes, paper towels, etc.) to donate to people moving into their new home.

3:30 to 5 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center

REGISTRATION

Chamber members: $25 in advance | $30 at the door Non-members: $35 in advance | $40 at the door

HIGHLIGHTS from June

3:30 to 5 p.m. Delta by Marriott Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

DONATION

PROGRAM SPONSORS

update

Thanks to attendees in June, we were able to collect three gift cards and 54 cans of kitten food to donate to animals at the Homeward Animal Shelter.

#FMWFWC

In June, two powerhouse women of Pam McGee, MSUM, and Tonya Stende, Dale Carnegie of ND and MN, inspired attendees to dream big, set goals and take risks. All attendees received “Team Pam” t-shirts to wear in support of McGee who is fighting a cancer diagnosis. Thanks to all that made this event uplifting and simply incredible.

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

LEADERSHIP FMWF

Announcing the new Leadership class We are thrilled to announce and welcome the below individuals into our 2019–20 Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class. Watch our Bridge next month for their class photo!

Jessica Heilman

Alerus

Sarah Fuchs

Anne Carlsen Center

Matt Bushard Bell Bank

Jessie Azure Beyond Realty

Kristin Gille

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

Lindsey Cernik

Border States Electric

Rammie Olson Bremer Bank

Kristina Martz Cardinal IG

Steve Sjoberg

Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc.

Evan Balko

Concordia College

James Hand

Naomi Disrud

Scottie Knollin

Hayley Johnson

Construction Engineers

CoreLink Administrative Solutions

Megan Grote

Dabbert Custom Homes

Michelle Larson

Discovery Benefits

Robert Hoffman Doosan Bobcat

Abbey Benson

EagleRidge Development

Kilbourne Group

Ashley Manly

Limelight Builders

Stefan Wills Microsoft

Brian Kingsley Midco

Amber Ertelt

Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead

Daniel Macintosh

Brandon Oye

McKenzy Olson

Amanda Reil

Eide Bailly LLP

EPIC Companies

Moore Engineering

NDSU Career Center

Chris Helmick

Jack Yakowicz

Jacob Whiting

Anne Schmaltz

Fargo Police Department

First International Bank & Trust

Bruce Powlish Gate City Bank

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Houston Engineering

Office Sign Company

Paces Lodging Corporation

Machelle Velaski

Mandy Ohman-Zastre Rasmussen College

Charles Lang Sanford Health

Jill Andera

Sterling Management

Darin Feir

The Chamber

Erin Stegman Ulteig

A.J. Sitzer

Union Bank Fargo

Jenna Bixler

Wanzek Construction

Ty Day

Wells Fargo Bank

Anna Sather

YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties

Ashley Mitchell YWCA Cass Clay

Park Company Realtors

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Midwest Radio of FM

24 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

Race: Why are we so different Exhibit tour and dialogue

HIGHLIGHTS

Minnesota State University Moorhead, Livingston Lord Library

In June, POC program and committee members gathered at Lindenwood Park for a fun summertime picnic. Over tasty snacks and lawn games, we were able to kick back and enjoy making new connections. And earlier that month, we were glad to spend time at Fargo Brewing Company for a networking social.

August 21 | 4 to 6 p.m.

Join the Professionals of Color as we tour the Science Museum of Minnesota’s Race: Why are we so Different exhibit. Members will be able to view the RACE exhibit and listen to short talks by leaders around campus. We’ll get a chance to unpack the exhibit and talk openly about identity and experiences as Professionals of Color in the FMWF metro. Registration (includes refreshments) POC members: $17 POC non-members: $27

Program cost per year: $45 Chamber members $75 non-members

from June

For more information about upcoming events, visit fmwfchamber.com.

#FMWFPOC

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 25

Clover Go

the all-in-one payment system It goes wherever YOU work – use with your smartphone or tablet. Get started today! starionbank.com/clover

Nicholi Knutson Cash Management Officer 701-281-5608

2019 First Data Corporation. All rights reserved. The Clover® name, logo and related trademarks are owned by Clover Network, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of First Data Corporation, and registered or used in the U.S. and many foreign countries.

26 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Member FDIC

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

Off the Clock

YPN Business Tour | BNG Team

Moorhead Dairy Queen 24 Eighth Street South, Moorhead

BNG Team 3285 47th Street South, Fargo

Thursday, August 15 | 5:15 to 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 27 | 4 to 5 p.m.

YPN is switching things up this month! Join us for networking and ice cream outside of one of the FMWF area’s staple establishments, the Moorhead Dairy Queen. Don’t forget to bring your business cards! *Apps will not be provided this social; ice cream on your own*

YPN is excited to tour BNG Team’s new building, which opened in March of 2019! Their new office space is ultra-cool, with slides, a game room and basketball court. Take a look inside their space and learn more about what this growing company offers to our community.

HIGHLIGHTS from YP WEEK “The first annual YP Week was a huge success! Throughout seven days of jam-packed events, we gathered to celebrate an awesome community of young professionals. We also saw a lot of new faces and we're excited to learn more about our new members! YPN is one of the best ways for YPs to connect in Fargo-Moorhead and it was great to feel the energy of everyone who checked out an event. Hope to see you again soon!" —YPN Leadership Committee

Share A Meal

Morning Buzz

Killbourne Tour

Picnic and Social

PROGRAM SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 27

FMWFYPN

Lattes With Leaders

YEA!: YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY

Celebrating the FIFTH year of YEA! We’re currently recruiting our fifth Young Entrepreneurs Academy class, so we thought we’d highlight the top five reasons students should consider joining the program this year!

Five reasons to join the fifth year of YEA!

1 • 2 • 3 •

Develop important skills like public speaking, critical thinking and collaboration Learn how to network and create an elevator pitch Gain unique access into the business community and make meaningful connections with more than 50 industry professionals who volunteer with the program

4 • 5 •

Learn in a unique setting, under the instruction of a real entrepreneur Write a business plan—we don’t require students to launch their business, but they’ll be equipped to do so if they choose to embark on that journey!

Who we’re looking for

Do you know a student who is a creative problem solver? A whiz in STEM classes? A talented artist? Maybe someone who has a savvy business and marketing mind? Or one who is looking for mentorship, a network of friends from diverse backgrounds, different schools or even other communities in our region?

#FMWFYEA

We’re looking for all of the above! All students need in YEA! are an open mind and a willingness to work hard. We help them brainstorm and develop ideas, connect them with a network of students and business professionals in the community, and give them the tools they need to be successful!

About this year of YEA

YEA! meets on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m., October through May, on the campuses of Concordia College, Minnesota State University Moorhead and North Dakota State University. Students in 6th through 12th grades are encouraged to apply. Applications can be found at fmwfchamber.com/YEA. If you have questions about this program, please reach out to Katie Ralston at kralston@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0511.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

28 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Friends of YEA!

American Crystal Sugar Dabbert Custom Homes Office Sign Company

NEW MEMBERS The 9th Street Group, LLC 7 01.235.0049

Kipp Harris Realtors k ippharris.com

Prairiewood Estates ( 701) 293-7492

eal Estate - Investment R Real Estate

eal Estate R Kipp Harris Realtors does real estate differently. They’re focused on what matters to you. They value personal connections more than the bottom line. They strive for balance and respect the time and needs of clients. Their team has been hand-picked based on their experience and knowledge. Their clients will have the same quality experience, no matter which agent is assisting them. Clients have the benefit of an entire team guiding them, working with them and doing real estate differently.

eal Estate - Property Management R Prairiewood Estates offers dog and cat friendly two-bedroom, one bath apartments for rent in Fargo. Located in a lovely, mature tree lined residential neighborhood, Prairiewood Estates features in-unit washers and dryers, private garage parking, off-street parking, balconies and fireplaces in select apartment homes. With easy access to Hwy 29, Hwy 94, West Acres Shopping Center, South High School, and numerous dining options makes Prairiewood Estates the perfect location for anyone! Want to get outside? Prairiewood Estates offers a great picnic area with grills and is within walking distance of Boler Park and Prairiewood Golf Course. Call and schedule your personal tour today!

BNI bnimn.com lubs & Organizations C BNI of Minnesota & North Wisconsin is the world’s largest BNI region with about 3,000 members. The ~70 members in Fargo-Moorhead have given each other over 2,400 referrals, resulting in $1.8 million in business in just the past 12 months. Driven by the spirit of Givers Gain, they’re changing the way the world does business.

Buffalo Wings and Rings-West Fargo buffalowingsandrings.com/locations/ west_fargo Restaurants West Fargo Buffalo Wings & Rings is a sports restaurant and bar on East 32nd near Cash Wise Foods. It is the perfect place to kick back, relax and bring your friends and family together. With their large group seating, they can fit the whole party. In fact, they have a private banquetmeeting room for your next party. Their family-friendly restaurant is a great place to catch the game or unwind.

Mai’s Alterations m aisalterationsfm.com lothing - Alterations/Accessories C Mai’s Alterations provides clothing alterations for bridal, formal, casual and military uniform.

Metz Co Inc. m etznd.com achine Shops M Metz’s company offers custom trailers and repair. They also provide all types of metal fabrication and welding services.

inancial Institutions F Starion Bank offers the products you would expect from a national bank with the service you expect from a community bank: flexibility, access to decision-makers and great customer service.

Office Depot Officemax o fficedepot.com

Tactical Action Gaming t acticalactiongaming.com

onsultants C Do Good Better Consulting helps small and medium sized non-profits raise more money, have more fun doing it, and simplifies the process of fundraising, special events and all things philanthropy.

Retail - Stores/Ecommerce The retail division operates a chain of retail stores, which offer office supplies; technology products and solutions; business machines and related supplies; print, cleaning, breakroom, and facilities products; and furniture in the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Drumconrath Brewing Company d rumconrathbrewing.com

Potty Shacks p ottyshacks.com

Do Good Better Consulting D oGoodBetterConsulting.com

ars/Lounges/Night Clubs B Brewery

Dust Busters Cleaning Service d ustbustersfm.com ome Care Services H Dust Busters Cleaning Service is a locally owned cleaning service. They provide basic residential cleaning, deep cleaning, move in/out cleaning/ new construction cleaning and office cleaning. Their hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

30 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

Starion Bank - Broadway Location s tarionbank.com

eptic Tanks & Portable Toilets S Portable toilet rental and service for construction sites and large or small events. Regular, handicap, handwash, elevator & crane units. septic pumping. They service Fargo/Moorhead and surrounding areas.

ntertainers/Entertainment Agencies E Tactical Action Gaming (TAG) is the region’s first indoor nerf sports and tactical laser tag arenas. They’ve got advanced facilitated mission-based games for family, friends and walk-ins. Whether it’s a battle with nerf blasters or missionbased tactical laser tag all our activities are fun, competitive and different every session. They provide all the equipment and supervision needed for great parties or walk-in fun.

Ten 11 Auto LLC t en11auto.com | (218) 303-1733 Automobile Dealers Ten 11 Auto LLC is a family owned and operated vehicle dealership that sells quality pre-owned cars, trucks, SUVs and golf carts.

Want to find all our members? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com.

NEW MEMBERS We welcome the following businesses who have invested by joining The Chamber. We encourage all members to conduct business with each other. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber!

Thies & Talle Management t hiestalle.com | (701) 429-1558

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER

Real Estate - Property Management With properties encompassing urban, suburban, and rural areas, and ranging from high-end luxury housing to governmentassisted housing, Thies & Talle Management continues to focus on the long-term quality of its properties and superior service to residents. Thies and Talle Management knows their customer service is their best amenity. They want your experience to be the best it can be and they do this by making sure residents come first. They offer a wide variety of apartments and townhomes for rent. With 113 locations in Minnesota, North and South Dakota, Montana and Michigan, they know they have the right apartment home for you.

EARN AN MBA DEGREE

Valley Christian Counseling Center v alleychristiancounselingcenter.com ounseling Services C Valley Christian Counseling Center’s vision is to create a place where individuals can feel safe to express themselves, learn coping skills and continually grow and mature.

PRINT, PROMOTE & PROPEL

That’s what we do for you! J & M Printing has been helping clients for over 50 years and we are ready to do the same for you. Call up Rich to get ideas, get a quote and propel your business!

CONNECT FOR A QUOTE! JMPRINT.NET

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

4666 Amber Valley Parkway Fargo, ND 58104

PRINTING

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

MAILING SERVICES

GRAPHIC DESIGN

SIGNAGE & BANNERS A Top 400 U.S. Printing Company for 2015, 2016 & 2017 in Printing Impressions

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 31

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES Heritage Homes and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties have been recognized as “Infant Friendly” by the North Dakota Department of Health. According to research, breastfeeding also benefits the employer. Such benefits include lower health care costs because breastfed babies are healthier, lower absenteeism, and lower turnover rates since woman are more likely to return to their previous jobs if the company provides support for breastfeeding mothers. These benefits can provide considerable cost savings to employers. Bethany Retirement Living’s two campuses in Fargo have both been recognized as 2019 recipients of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) for their commitment to improving the lives of residents through quality care. The distinction is the first of three progressive award levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. The program, presented by the leading association in long term and post-acute care, honors association members across the country that have demonstrated their dedication to improving quality of care for seniors and persons with disabilities. Matt’s Automotive Service Center has acquired a long-time local service center, Todd’s Alignment & Repair, in Moorhead. The location transitioned from Todd’s Alignment on June 28, 2019 and opened as the fifth FM area Matt’s Automotive Service Center in July 2019.

32 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

The Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program has released The Workforce Playbook: A Community College Guide to Delivering Excellent Career and Technical Education. After researching community colleges across the country, The Aspen Institute selected North Dakota State College of Science as one of six institutions they visited to learn what the best colleges do to build effective workforce programs. The Workforce Playbook recognizes NDSCS as a highperforming community college that has excelled in delivering excellent career and technical education. The Workforce Playbook highlights NDSCS in several areas, including: assessing who’s being left out of the local economy, making partnership building an explicit expectation, effective K-12 outreach and engagement, and matching employers with students who are interested in their industry. S&S Promotional Group announced its merger with SampsonMiller Advertising, located in Minneapolis. Sampson Miller, a third-generation family business, has served a wide range of clients throughout the Upper Midwest for nearly 90 years. Its owner, Paul Miller, will serve as the regional VP of sales for the Minnesota region for S&S Promotional Group.

MEMBERS NEWS: PEOPLE Alerus

Sean Sather, Senior Financial Advisor

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

Jon Warner, Financial Advisor

Appareo

SATHER

WARNER

BERBESI

DURICK

GIESE

HARDEBECK

HUMPHREY

JONES

Jorge Berbesi, Manufacturing Assembler David Durick, Director, Mechanical & Component Design Chris Giese, Senior Project Manager Emily Hardebeck, SMT Operator Brittney Humphrey, Engineer I, Embedded Software Design Brandon Jones, Inside Sales & Customer Support Specialist Traci Krabbenhoft, Accounting Associate Nicholas Moe, R & D Technician Andy Moen, SMT Operator Stephani Rindy, Quality Inspection Technician

Cornerstone Bank

Kristin Jaeger, VP/Director of Marketing and Communications Lindsay Mack, VP/Human Resources Director Stacey Tronson, SVP/Compliance Officer

Dawson Insurance, A Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Company

Nathan Parry, Account Manager Lydia Zaharia, Risk Management Specialist KRABBENHOFT

MOE

MOEN

RINDY

Doosan Bobcat

Mike Ballweber, President, North America Troy Kraft, Senior Vice President, Global Engineering

First International Insurance

JAEGER

D PR

MACK

Chris Strautz, Commercial Lines Market Placement Specialist

TRONSON

PARRY

Flint Group

Jenna Fischer, Junior Web Developer Jennifer Larson, Account Manager Alex Werk, Junior Account Manager

Friendly Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Susan Althoff, Associate Dentist

D PR

Great Plains Food Bank

ZAHARIA

BALLWEBER

KRAFT

STRAUTZ

FISCHER

LARSON

WERK

ALTHOFF

Stacy Ackerman (Wells Fargo) New Board Member (not pictured) Pat Gulbranson (Family HealthCare) New Board Member (not pictured)

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 33

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE Gundersons Jewelry

Mirela Celikovic, Sales Professional Katie Goetz, Office/Sales Assistant

KW Inspire Realty

Tanya Cowart, Realtor Mina Mohamed, Realtor Jason Wisniewski, Realtor

Midwest Nest Magazine

CELIKOVIC

GOETZ

COWART

MOHAMED

WISNIEWSKI

TRONIER

CARLSTROM

GIBBS

CHRISTIANSON

GILLESPIE

SCHERLING

COLLINS

RICHARDS

Jana Tronier, Business Development

NDSU Research & Technology Park

Ian Carlstrom, Business Adviser, North Dakota Small Business Development Center

Onsharp

Steve Gibbs, Software Developer

Red River Commodities

Eric Christianson, CEO

Sterling Management, LLC

Kyle Christianson, Transaction Coordinator Amber Gillespie, Financial Accountant

U.S. Bank

Terry Scherling, Community Advisory Board

West Fargo Public Schools

Casey Collins, Educational Equity Coordinator Andrea Richards, Behavior Specialist

OTHER NEWS Matthew De Vries of the financial services firm Edward Jones in West Fargo recently won the firm’s A.F. McKenzie Award for his exceptional achievement in building client relationships. The Great Plains Food Bank has selected officers for its 12-member board of directors. Former North Dakota state legislator Nancy Johnson will serve as board chair with Zack Dawson (Bell Insurance) serving as chair-elect. Bill Tweten, lead cabinetry designer at Western Products, has received a certificate from the National Kitchen and Bath Association acknowledging his 20+ years as a certified designer. Tweten is the only Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Did you know that we run news announcements from all our members in every newsletter, at no charge? It’s just one perk of your Chamber membership! Whether for a new hire or exciting news about your company, we want to share our members’ milestones with our readers and the community. Just send your news to us, and we’ll publish it in the next available edition of The Bridge. Note: Due to our publishing cycle, all news is run two months out from when it was received.

How to submit Email your company or people news to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com or visit fmwfchamber.com/member-news.

34 THE BRIDGE • AUGUST 2019

CELEBRATIONS: JUNE RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

Border States Relocation 2400 38th Street South, Fargo borderstates.com

Matt's Automotive Service Center 10-year anniversary 1150 43 1/2 Street South, Fargo mattsautoservicecenter.com

Post 400 Legion Baseball / Fargo Youth Baseball Expansion Expansion 2401 42nd Street SW, Fargo fargoyouthbaseball.com

Spherion Staffing 25-year anniversary 2730 Seventh Avenue South, Fargo spherion.com/fargo

EPIC Companies / Block E Grand opening 801 Main Avenue, Moorhead blockemoorhead.com

OK Tire Store, Inc. Groundbreaking 3324 47th Street South, Fargo oktireinc.com

Sanford Health Grand opening of Veterans Square Clinic 3955 56th Street South, Suite D, Fargo sanfordhealth.org

Starion Bank Grand opening 309 Broadway North, Fargo starionbank.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 35

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

A look inside—and recap of— the new Chamber website and MIC

All new features of the chamber website have now launched! We are so excited to have new opportunities for members to engage and connect through this tool.

A look at the numbers, so far

• 101 community events added to the calendar • 29 hot deals created (Travel Travel has submitted the most deals!)

• 121 job postings listed

(Preference Employment Solutions, followed by Western State Bank, sent the most jobs in)

What are members saying about the MIC?

“The MIC portal is another great way to get your company’s information out to individuals in the community. It is userfriendly and easy to set up. We use it to list our contact information, office hours and social media pages.”

– Ben Robers

Clarity Brain Center

“I signed up with The Chamber in May. With their MIC, it's actually led to one of the best-performing and highest traffic sources to my website, according to my Google Analytics.” – Patrick Metzger

Patrick Metzger Life & Health Coaching & Speaking

Haven’t checked out the MIC yet?

“The Member Information Center (MIC) has been a wonderful upgrade. It’s enabled our company to post events, jobs, coupons and communications directly to other members without needing to go through the middle man. Plus, our employees are now able to register themselves for member events, training & committees at member rates without needing go through admin; all they need is their company email. So simple!”

The Member Information Center (MIC, for short) brings so many benefits to members. Through features designed to help you do and get more – Morganne Stinsman, business, you can interact with other members Marketing Associate, True|IT through the forum, create deals to share with other Chamber and community members, post your open jobs, add your own events and spice up your organization’s look in the directory. And, certain representatives can view reports of how many view and clicks your deals and job postings have received, and how much web traffic has been generated to your page from our directory. Best of all, all of these features and benefits are totally FREE! Get started by logging in using the “Member Login” button at the top of our website. Don’t have an account yet? You can create one to get access to these features. If your email address isn’t yet in our system, or you need help creating and accessing your account, please call us at 218.233.1100 or email info@fmwfchamber.com.