December 2019 Bridge by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL. 23 NO. 4

DECEMBER 2019

Voices of Vision recap p.6 Membership benefit spotlight p.11 Local criminal justice p.14

Community Builders

2 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

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

Voices of Vision:

Peyton Manning Recap

Contents

December 2019

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Member profile: Fargo Youth Hockey Association

A look inside criminal justice: Eggs & Issues recap

14 Eggs & Issues

17 Business Training 18 Women Connect

20 Leadership FMWF

23 Professionals of Color

25 Young Entrepreneurs Academy 27 Young Professionals Network 28 New Members 31 Member News

33 Ribbon Cuttings

30 AAA-The Auto Club Group

26 Bell Bank 9 Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND

29 Boulger Funeral Home

30 Cole Papers, Inc.

24 Cornerstone Bank

35 Dakota Carrier Network

Ulteig

11 Membership Matters

AD INDEX

Member spotlight:

10 Operation Thank You

21, 29 First International Bank & Trust

22 Four Points by Sheraton

22 Indigo Signworks

26 InForum

21 J&M Printing

30 Knight Printing

29 Moore Engineering

26 O.K. Tire Store

24 Pro Resources

22 Starion Bank

24 The Village

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

The Chamber

Board of Directors

Committee Chairs

Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance Chair

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

Roger Reierson Flint Group Agribusiness

Sandi Piatz Microsoft Chair Elect

Jessica Broers Bremer Bank

Ambassador Public Relations

Shawn Dobberstein Hector International Airport Treasurer Mark Nisbet Xcel Energy Immediate Past Chair

Scott Berg U.S. Bank

Ambassador Member Relations

Cory Holen Preference Employment Solutions

Business Training

Mike Dragosavich Spotlight Member at Large

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

Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Education co-chair Moorhead

Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Moorhead

Louise Dardis Retired educator

Education co-chair

Kevin Christianson Paces Lodging Corporation, Property Resources Group Kyle Dorow Essentia Health

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES • Establish the region as a fullservice metropolitan marketplace. • Be a bold voice for business through strong thought leadership and a rich policy agenda.

Erica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald Leadership FMWF House Charities Brian Shawn Midco

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Military Affairs

Chad Flanagan Eide Bailly LLP

Trevor Mathew Choice Bank

Steve Halverson Heartland Trust Company

Professionals of Color

Tim Flakoll Tri-College University

Brittany Montecuollo Sanford Health

• Build a place of belonging to best serve members’ interests.

Public Policy

Joanna Slominski Mortenson

Katie Hutton Eide Bailly LLP

Peter Stenehjem First International Bank & Trust

Women Connect

Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank

Danne Doering Choice Bank

Jeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

Young Professionals Network

Craig Whitney The Chamber

Chamber Staff

Craig Whitney President/CEO @FMWFPrez

Tracy Meckler

Membership & Advertising Sales Manager @FMWFTracyM

Jim Parsons VP of Finance & Operations @FMWFJim

Tracy Powell

Director of Events and Programs @FMWFTracyP

Julie Doggett Information Systems Administrator @FMWFJulieD

Mason Rademacher

Intern @FMWFMason

Darren Dunlop

Business Development Manager @FMWFDarren

Alyssa Ralston Lakoduk Professional Development Coordinator @FMWFAlyssa

Darin Feir

Graphics & Publications Coordinator @FMWFDarin

Tyler Fischbach

Multimedia Coordinator @FMWFTyler

Bobbi Rehder

Events Coordinator @FMWFBobbiJo

Amanda Huggett Manager of Communications & Marketing @FMWFAmanda

Casey Sanders Manager of Membership @FMWFCasey

Mickayla Thompson

Member Relations Coordinator @FMWFMickayla

Katie Mastel

Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager @FMWFKatie

Julie Yourczek Office Administrator @FMWFJulieY

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 Forum Communications Printing

a note from the

PRESIDENT

Farewell 2019, hello 2020! The holiday season is always a favorite time of year, as it provides time to pause and reflect. As we look at our chamber and our community, there is much to be proud of and thankful for. We continue to see growth and successes in our metro economy, small business support, educational environment, entrepreneurial ecosystem, workforce solutions and pride for this great region we call home. Within our chamber, we have had another incredible year. We hosted some of our largest events ever in 2019, starting with Rachel Hollis at Women Connect in January and ending with the recent 10th anniversary Voices of Vision with Peyton Manning. We launched new programs, which seem to be resonating positively with the community, from the Professionals of Color, to the Education committee, and worked to reinvigorate things like Business After Hours and membership opportunities. The start of our most recent fiscal year also marked efforts toward a new three-year strategic plan, which you’ll find listed to your left. One major accomplishment we saw come to fruition was our partnership with the Economic Development Corporation for the launch and announcement of the regional Fueling Our Future initiative. As the work has only just begun, they have already been evaluating solutions in the three focus areas of people, prosperity and place. The initiative has been and continues to be engaged in many projects, including supporting career academies, working toward certified shovel-ready site selection and establishing a business accelerator. As we set out to achieve our vision for 2020 and beyond, we hope to continue providing relevant programming, events, benefits and opportunities for our membership and professionals in the region. We are focused on serving the interests of our community through Fueling Our Future and the work of all our committees guided by hundreds of dedicated volunteers. We believe in the power of our region. One region, one community in which we all work together in support of the greater good, without division between cities or a river. This regional approach will propel us all forward and help us truly tackle the challenges that lay ahead. Thank you for your support thus far. We look forward to another prosperous year ahead. Cheers!

Craig Whitney President / CEO The Chamber @FMWFPrez

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 5

Thousands ‘go to’ see Peyton:

Voices of Vision 2019 recap With a sold-out crowd at the

After his presentation, Manning

last month we celebrated our 10th

for Q&A, where he talked about

Sanford Health Athletic Complex,

anniversary of the Voices of Vision event series with an incredible

event featuring two-time Super

Bowl champion and five-time NFL MVP Peyton Manning.

sat down with emcee Dan Michaels his family, best advice, mentors, philanthropic endeavors and

shared some behind-the-scenes stories from his career and commercial projects.

He addressed attendees with

A huge thanks to all our attendees,

success in business and leadership,

thank you to presenting sponsor

various takeaways relevant to learned from his own life

experiences. Some of our favorite quotes were…

sponsors, volunteers, and special Nodak Insurance Company!

See more highlights by searching #VOV19 on Twitter.

“To accomplish lofty team goals, a leader must deliberately and aggressively build trust among teammates. It requires creativity and authenticity.” “Leadership is a choice, not a rank. Authority is not leadership.”

Manning’s 7 Go-To Plays Teamwork requires trust and is more important than ever

6 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

CHAMBER EVENTS More quotes from Peyton

“Leaders have to be willing to pivot to take advantage of new opportunities, and can’t be afraid to listen to the voices in their head that challenge you. Success today requires working as fast as the world changes.”

“Winging it is not a good idea. Always have a plan for what might be ahead. … A decision becomes right because you are determined to make it right.”

“Nobody starts out as a leader. You have to earn it, and the ability to influence others… manage hardships and successes.”

“Embrace the collective over the individual, the team over self.” “Winners must remain nimble enough to take whatever life or the marketplace throws at them and remain the same.”

Jim Alexander, Nodak Insurance Company, welcomed attendees as presenting sponsor.

About 3,000 chamber and community members packed the SHAC to see Peyton!

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 7

CHAMBER EVENTS

2020

State of the Cities Thursday, January 16 | 8 to 9:30 a.m. | Hilton Garden Inn Fargo Join us at this annual event that brings our community together to ask questions of our city’s mayors and talk about our region’s growth, goals and priorities. We'll also conduct live polling, and breakfast is included with every registration with the opportunity to network with your peers and our region’s leaders.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

#SOC20

JOIN US

for the

2020 Economic Outlook Forum! Thursday, February 20 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott

“Tech, Trade, Turbulence and the 2020 Elections” In early 2016, Karlgaard predicted Donald Trump would win the presidency. Now, he dons his political-economic lens once more to provide insight on the 2020 elections—and how it will all likely impact the U.S. economy and markets. In this speech, Karlgaard will tackle a number of questions. How strong, really, is the U.S. economy? What will trigger the next recession and when? Is the stock market poised for a crash, and how will we know one is coming? How far will Trump take his trade war, and how will China respond? Why are technologies such as AI speeding up and punishing businesses unable to keep up? Hear his financially grounded advice on how your business should deal with AI, the Cloud, IoT, and digital disruption at this year's keynote. Stay tuned for more plans and speaker announcements soon to come! The Economic Outlook Forum is an opportunity to learn about global economic trends and examine the local landscape and factors that keep us competitive. From workforce issues to regulation and the outlook for the future, we’ll hear how global and local trends affect our business community. PRESENTING SPONSOR

Rich Karlgaard, Publisher and Futurist, Forbes Media, returns!

8 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

#EOF20

N O R T H D A K O TA S T Y L E

Let our experts help you custom-design an employee benefits package that works for you today and helps you get to where you want to be tomorrow. Let’s get started on your employee benefits plan.

EmployerPlansND.com

Jo Hatfield Fargo • 701.282.1153

Mitch Kudrna Fargo • 701.282.1446

CHAMBER EVENTS OPERATION THANK YOU SPONSORS

— January 15–17, 2020 —

OPER ATION

Thank You

Every year, Operation Thank You has a mission to say thank YOU to our members! Watch out, because we’ll be stopping by this January if you’re a local member.

What happens during Operation Thank You? • • • •

Ambassadors and Chamber volunteers assemble new membership packets Then, we hit the town to hand-deliver packets to all area members You’ll receive your new member materials and can visit with our team We love learning about your business and talking about how we can help!

What’s in the packet? • Your new 2020 member window cling • 2020 Metro Profile & Membership Directory • Upcoming Chamber events list

• A letter from the Chamber president • Materials to maximize your membership • And more!

For more information or to become involved and volunteer, contact Mickayla at mthompson@fmwfchamber.com.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

#FMWFBAH

December 5 | 4 to 6:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott

Don’t miss our festive, fun, and largest networking event of the year at the special holiday edition of Business After Hours! Cheers to seeing you there!

SPONSORED BY

10 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Member benefit highlight

Why you should consider The Village for your Employee Assistance Program While many insurers offer employee assistance programs (EAPs), they're often tacked on to existing employee benefit plans as add-ons. The Village Business Institute, a program of The Village Family Service Center, offers a more customized, local approach, whether you’re looking for help with counseling, training, regulatory compliance, or mediation. The Village EAP has its own dedicated staff of professionals who provide the highest quality of counseling, training, consulting, crisis-management and case-management services.

“Village professionals customize training sessions to fit your organization’s needs. We offer a wide array of topics for supervisors, teams and employees, including compliance, interpersonal skill development and wellness issues. Whatever the need, we’re here to help!“

—Denise Hellekson, Program Supervisor

The Village Business Institute

“For a small company like ours, the EAP was

a great opportunity for us to support our employees when they needed it most. We love that it is confidential and open to the employee’s whole household. We also appreciate that they not only provide traditional counseling, but also financial advising and legal counsel options. It’s a tremendous value for the price.“ – Shelby Cochran, Operations Director, dogIDs

1. FACE-TO-FACE PERSONAL COUNSELING The Village Business Institute offers face-to-face counseling to your employees for a variety of relationship, emotional health and workplace issues, either in-person or online.

2. FINANCIAL & LEGAL COUNSELING Financial issues are often at the root of employees’ problems. The Village EAP includes financial counseling as a core employee benefit provided by their NFCC certified credit counselors. Legal counseling services are provided by licensed, practicing attorneys who are members of the Bar Association. Employees receive free 30-minute legal consultation and can choose to retain a network attorney at reduced rates (up to a 25% discount).

3. EMPLOYER SERVICES You will get access to: • Supervisor Helpline staffed by trained professionals available to consult on a variety of HR and workplace issues. • Formal Referral Case Management for performance issues or Drug-Free Workplace/DOT violations. • Comprehensive, customized training solutions to help you build and maintain a high-performing and engaged workforce. • Crisis Management Services for work-related crises, such as accidental death, worksite injury, natural disasters or crime. These on-site crisis services can limit the negative impact and help employees cope. For more information, visit TheVillageFamily.org/ Employee-Assistance-Programs or call 701.451.4900.

Don’t forget to join us for the next Chamber 101! Thursday, December 19 | 9 to 9:45 a.m. The Chamber office, 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 11

Fargo Youth Hockey Association: People’s Choice winner Local non-profit Fargo Youth Hockey Association scored the title of People’s Choice at the ChamberChoice Awards last May. About eight years ago, three associations consisting of the Fargo Raiders, Fargo Flyers & Fargo All-City merged under the name Fargo Youth Hockey Association - Fargo Freeze and created one large association that feeds five high school hockey teams. Today, the Fargo Youth Hockey Association offers programs for youth and teaches the fundamentals of hockey, sportsmanship, teamwork and selfdiscipline. Kids learn to compete within a set of established rules, accept the decisions of authorized officials and develop sound minds and bodies. About 1,000 players from Fargo alone participate in youth hockey each year. A few of their core values are to create a safe, fun and rewarding hockey experience, and a setting where sportsmanship and good behavior are stressed at all times. One letter of recommendation wrote that they are not just a competitive organization developing elite athletes. Rather, they’re in the business of giving every child an opportunity to play. And, knowing that hockey can be expensive, they strive to make it more accessible and affordable. Reduced fees from scholarships 12 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

and the First Shift program has introduced more than 1,500 kids to the sport since 2010. The association does more than just develop area youth, though. Over the past four years, their events have resulted in direct visitor spending of more than $9.1 million from the hundreds of teams and families traveling here to play in tournaments. Fargo Youth Hockey Association has seen substantial growth in its membership, tournaments and partnerships. This year they hosted the most teams ever, with 384 teams participating over eight weekends in January and February. And, they celebrated the 35th anniversary of the Squirt International hockey tournament, hosting 224 teams in February. The association’s 2018–2019 president DJ Rieger says that with a staff of just five full-time employees, they rely heavily on their membership and board of directors. For their tournament season alone, their membership volunteered over 500 hours, filling 3,101 tournament shifts. FYHA staff, coaches and volunteers undergo Safe Sport training, and coaches receive training through USA Hockey to receive their level certifications. Community partnerships are paramount for the youth hockey association. They’re proud to

work with the Fargo Park District, Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, the Metro Sports Foundation, local hockey associations, and many local sponsors. “Our partnership with the Metro Sports Foundation helped bring the building of the Farmers Union Insurance Center, hockey arena attached to SCHEELS Arena, to fruition resulting in additional ice in our community to benefit our local high schools and youth,” Rieger said. The Fargo Youth Hockey Association also owns the H.A. Thompson & Sons Arena in north Fargo. It is not only home to the Fargo Freeze but is also used for private rentals, hockey camps and adult leagues. The youth hockey camps serve players in the entire Red River Valley with some of these camps being the Fargo Freeze summer hockey camps, North Fargo Hockey Skills, ASE Shooting/Checking Camp and the International Hockey School. H.A. Thompson & Sons Arena is also used by Hope Inc., area figure skaters, and is considered by many to be the best playing surface in the area due to its hard fast ice sheet, and it year-round availability. There’s no doubt that Fargo Youth Hockey Association assists in contributing to this community.

MEMBER PROFILE

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Current hockey program levels: • Termites (boys and girls age 4-6) • Mites and 8U Girls (age 6-9)

• Squirts and 10U Girls (age 9-11)

• PeeWees and 12U Girls (age 12 and under) • Bantams and 14U Girls (age 14 and under)

• Junior Gold and 19U Girls (age 19 and under)

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Freeze celebrate name change, new entrance and 35th Anniversary of the Squirt International

Al Hintz, former FYHA Squirt International Tournament Director, was presented with the CVB's Tourism Champion Award in 2014

First Shift program has introduced more than 1,500 kids to the sport since 2010

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 13

EGGS & ISSUES

#FMWFEGGS

A look inside local criminal justice: November Eggs & Issues recap Last month, we learned about incarceration and rehabilitation efforts in our community from three expert panelists who shed light on facilities, programs and collaborative efforts. The event was moderated by Gerri Leach, executive director of the Jail Chaplains. Speakers included Capt. Andrew Frobig, Cass County Jail; Leann Bertsch, ND Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; and James O'Donnell, West Central Regional Juvenile Center. Bertsch provided an overview of current policies and changes to the state’s system, which has taken cues from Norway’s facilities that aims to eliminate an us vs. them mentality and eliminate barriers to build a context of respect. An ‘import model’ brings people in to volunteer and offer services, and they ask inmates to also give back to their communities. In an effort to avoid institutionalization, they take residents shopping, and move them to units that more closely resembles a traditional housing unit as they approach the end of their sentence.

State policy goals

• Use corrections as the last resort • Use the least restrictive environment • Less punitive and more supportive • More resources in the community • Use real-time data Frobig shared some local stats. Total inmates housed from 2012 to 2019 has been stable from year to year. However, the Cass County jail is seeing individuals stay longer, which leaves some uncertainty for administrators planning for the long-term. They see about 25 individuals taken in per day, and about 24 released. In 2019 so far, 7,250 were booked in, with 106 to state prisons.

14 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

Contributors to increase

• Metro population growth • Longer stays • Court backlogs and delays • Legislative changes • Increasing mental health and substance abuse challenges • Legislative changes to Century Code • Jail utilization for additional populations O'Donnell admitted that when he began working in the juvenile system, he assumed that the kids just needed some discipline, but instead he witnessed an underlying current of love and empathy. He shared that the most common reasons juveniles enter the system are due to personal crimes, property crimes, and society/other (i.e., probation violations, drug-related crimes or disorderly conduct). The West Central Regional Juvenile Center is in the middle of a remodel and expansion to accommodate a growing population, set to be complete in February. They work with the Moorhead k-12 school system to offer public schooling so no kid falls behind in their education. Bertsch commented that it’s refreshing to see a new wave of support in the last few years, where organizations and individuals are stepping up to offer robust services and programs. “We have to work as a system … and things need to start with the juvenile piece first. Bad outcomes for kids results in bad outcomes for adults,” she said. Bertsch mentioned that they are aware racial disparity is an issue, and often starts at the arrest point. They are looking at data and asking further questions to address it. “We have a real opportunity

with some programs put in place, funding and peer support is catching on. In future years I think we will see an impact.”

Cass County jail efforts

• Religious programming • Faith based support/education curriculum • Health/wellness and recreational programming • Abuse support • Life skills and motivational programming • Job skills and treatment referrals • MAT access • GED opportunities • Inmate marriages • Mental health access Frobig also spoke to some collaborations, mentioning working with county commissioners get a bus stop near the jail to address the transportation barrier. He also shared that a Promise app is now being piloted and offers court notifications, which has significantly reduced the number of no-shows and communicates information to select groups. The panelists reminded the audience that people can change and need a second chance, encouraged attendees to think ways they can help make a difference in the system, and invited everyone in to visit their facilities. ND Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation 3100 Railroad Avenue Bismarck, ND 58502 Phone: 701.328.6390 West Central Regional Juvenile Center 729 11th St N Moorhead, MN 56560 Phone: 218.299.5150 Cass County Jail 450 34th St. S. Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: 701.271.2900

Have an idea for Eggs & Issues? Tell us what you would like to hear more about. Email Katie at kmastel@fmwfchamber.com.

EGGS & ISSUES

National Guard Briefing and a New Service for Our Veterans

Career Academies: Training our Local Workforce

Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

Tuesday, December 3 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Maj. Derek Kuntz Col. Darrin Anderson Capt. Jordan Dibich 2nd Battalion, 136th 141 Maneuver Enhancement Commander, 119th Infantry Regiment, OIC Wing, ND Air Brigade, OIC, ND Army MN Army National Guard National Guard National Guard

Dr. Angela Collins Chief of Mental Health Fargo VA Health Care System

Tyler Einarson Cpl USMC, Ret. Hyperbaric Clinic

Dr. Jeffrey Rondeau Acting Chief of Staff Fargo VA Health Care System

Join us for a National Guard briefing from our local Air and Army leaders. Colonel Anderson, Captain Dibich and Major Kuntz will share about the current strength of their units, retention rates, economic impact, missions, trainings and deployments. Along with their protection, the military brings a large economic impact and proves a great ability to attract a strong workforce, making supporting our military a priority for many business leaders. This event will also feature a panel focused on veteran services and the new Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) service for veterans in our area. The recent addition of the Fargo VA Health Care System to the HBOT clinical demonstration program gives veterans access to this unique treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. Hear more about this service from Dr. Collins and Dr. Rondeau from the VA, as well as Tyler Einarson, a veteran who has benefitted from the service and works at the Hyperbaric Clinic.

Tuesday, January 7 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Denise Jonas Tom Shorma Director CEO/President Cass County WCCO Belting Inc Career & Tech Ed

Cory Steiner Tamara Uselman Superintendent Asst. Superintendent Northern Cass Moorhead School District Public Schools

At this career academies-focused Eggs & Issues, we are bringing in the leaders of both the Cass and Clay projects to get a better idea of what the Career Academies are expected to do for our region’s workforce. We’ll also discuss how they will affect our local businesses and the timeline we can expect. If you have never heard of Career Academies, are familiar with the term but not exactly sure what it means, or are already a strong advocate for them, this session is for you!

REGISTRATION includes breakfast Chamber members: $32 in advance | $42 at the door Non-members: $52 in advance | $62 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

At Eggs & Issues, we strive to provide topical and timely events to keep you in the know. Every month, you can expect to hear from local experts sharing information relevant to our region and business community. And you can always count on a hot breakfast and networking.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 15

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Celebrating their 75th anniversary this year,

Ulteig is an employee-owned company that delivers engineering and design, program management and technical and field services that strengthen infrastructure vital to everyday life. Founded by Melvin Ulteig in Fargo in 1944, the company's earliest efforts focused on bringing electricity to rural North Dakota. Through the decades, Ulteig has expanded their presence and adapted their expertise in industries that serve a wide range of clients across the country who operate in the Lifeline Sectors® of power, renewables, transportation and water.

What makes your organization unique? On the surface, the act of turning on a light, driving through a busy intersection or pouring a glass of water all seem like simple tasks. But our clients manage incredible complexity to keep these tasks simple and routine for the communities they serve. They rely on our decades of experience to maneuver through the difficulties of aging infrastructure, complex regulatory environments, limited funding and catastrophically high cost of failure. We have a mandate to expand our capabilities in new ways and harness new technologies to continue to help our clients bring vital services to millions.

Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now? Growth! We are committed to serving more clients and offering even greater value to our current clients. This year alone we have increased our workforce by 30% and opened two new office locations. We continue to execute a thoughtful approach to growth – our strategic plan includes our vision to be among the most highly regarded engineering and technical services firms in North America.

FAST FACTS

TOTAL EMPLOYEES: 575 YEAR FOUNDED: 1944 OFFICE LOCATIONS: Fargo (corporate HQ in ND); Austin (TX); Billings (MT); Bismarck (ND); Cedar Rapids (IA); Denver (CO); Detroit Lakes (MN); Minot (ND); Sioux Falls (SD); St. Paul (MN); and Williston (ND). COMPANY AWARDS/CERTIFICATIONS: In 2019: winner of top workplace awards in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Colorado; #211 on the Engineering News-Record annual Top 500 Design Firms list; recognized with American Council of Engineering Companies awards for engineering excellence.

16 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

What is one thing you want us to know about you? At Ulteig, we’re proud to be an employee-owned company. Our collective efforts not only benefit our clients, but directly contribute to our energizing culture and dynamic work environment – and the formula works, as demonstrated by our high employee engagement and retention rates and our multiple top workplace awards.

What’s your best business tip? Develop strong core values and live them every day. At Ulteig: • We dedicate ourselves to our clients’ success • We pursue excellence in our work • We act with integrity — Doug Jaeger, President & CEO

Ulteig employees volunteering

BUSINESS TRAINING

Imposter Syndrome and How to Overcome It Do you find yourself secondguessing your accomplishments? Do you ever get the feeling that you’ve fooled people into believing you are competent or talented, and fear that you’re going to be “found out”? If so, you may be experiencing the Imposter Syndrome – and you’re not alone! Research shows that Imposter Syndrome affects approximately 70% of us.

Wednesday, December 11 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DoubleTree by Hilton

photo credit: FATcat Studios

Laura Gariano

Senior Community Engagement Program Manager United Way of Cass-Clay

/lauragariano

Here, we’ll learn more about Impostor Syndrome, why it can affect certain individuals, behaviors it can cause, and methods to overcome it. Learn from others’ stories and share your own in small group discussions.

REGISTRATION includes lunch

Emotional Intelligence–Building

Awareness and Influence

Wednesday, January 8 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Delta by Marriott

Life is full of moments—from big distractions, frustrating occurrences or micro incidents you barely even recognize. How you interpret and react to these moments is key to success. Regardless of how smart you are, emotional intelligence is a mindset and a set of skills that help you control and express your emotions, and help you handle interpersonal relationships.

Jill Stafne

Vice President of Human Resources SCHEELS

This session will help you take a hard look at your own reactions to highly emotional situations. It will walk you through everyday tools and tips to get a handle on responding to situations professionally. We’ll learn the science behind emotional intelligence and leave with a heightened awareness about the prevailing success that comes in life when you develop these skills.

Chamber members: $32 in advance | $42 at the door Non-members: $52 in advance | $62 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

These events qualify for 1.5 CPE credits through SHRM

About this series

#FMWFTraining

Looking for opportunities to advance your career and skill set? That’s exactly what Business Training sessions are all about. Each month, you can expect a new topic tailored to the issues you need to know from local experts. This educational programming seeks to develop the professional, personal and leadership skills of Chamber member employees, and networking events foster connections with thousands of others in the business community, all over lunch.

Mission Statement Enhance the success of our community’s businesses through a variety of targeted, practical and cost-effective training events.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management Minnesota State Community and Technical College | TrueIT | Wanzek Construction, Inc. FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 17

Don’t miss the 2020 Annual Women Connect Celebration Tuesday, January 21 | 3 to 5 p.m. | Delta by Marriott

featuring

Marissa Orr

Author of Lean Out: The Truth About Women, Power and the Workplace

Hear an engaging keynote message from this former Google and Facebook executive, bestselling author and leadership speaker and help us celebrate another year of Women Connect programming! Lean Out is an ambitious attempt to answer the question few dare to ask: What have we gotten wrong about women at work? Follow Marissa on Twitter and Instagram @marissabethorr and on Medium @marissaorr. Charity of the month: BIO Girls. Please consider bringing rolls of Scotch tape, gallon-sized Ziploc bags or paper towels to donate to them. PRESENTING SPONSOR

QUOTES FROM MARISSA'S BOOK:

THE WINNERS OF THE CORPORATE GAME ARE SIMPLY THE ONES WHO PLAY IT BEST. IT DOESN'T MEAN THEY'RE LEADERS.

18 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

COMPANY CULTURE IS A REFLECTION OF ITS LEADERS.

"Lean Out: Spotlight on Marissa Orr" —A publishersweekly.com article, May 03, 2019 “Six years after Sheryl Sandberg's blockbuster Lean In motivated women to work toward closing the gender gap in corporate leadership, many women are choosing to embrace their own path rather than follow prescriptions for success that involved acting more like men. Central to this new movement is Marissa Orr, a Google and Facebook veteran whose first book, Lean Out: The Truth About Women, Power, and the Workplace, boldly claims that the gender gap persists largely because of corporate dysfunction and an obsession with competition and winning. “The book is for anyone who's interested in a new perspective not just on women at work,” Orr says, "but on the corporate world in general." While navigating her career in tech as a single mom of three, she found that women received mixed messages. "In some roles, I had a lot of flexibility with my schedule and was able to work from home when needed. In others, my performance reviews pointed to these kinds of things as evidence that I was not doing well in my job.”

WOMEN CONNECT

Thriving:

Tuesday, December 17

The Mindfulness of Imperfections

3:30 to 5 p.m. Delta by Marriott

Perfectionism can be one of the most destructive traits to both an individual and to others’ motivation and worker self-esteem. Perfectionism is also the leading fatal disease among women 18 to 100 (Pennsylvania Conference for Jessica Thomasson Women 2019). Whether it is in the President & CEO workplace environment or everyday Lutheran Social Services life, attendees at this session will North Dakota benefit from learning how to enable lssndjessica the presence of imperfection and thriving. Thriving is not the absence of imperfections, but rather the mindfulness of such. Charity of the month: North Dakota Autism Center—Please consider bringing sensory toys, large exercise balls, flip sequence boards, diffuser(s) with calming oil or bean bags, to donate to them.

REGISTRATION

Women’s Role in Leadership: What

Men and Women Need to Pay Attention to

In this #MeToo era, it can be difficult to understand how to navigate for female and male leaders. What is acceptable? What is unacceptable? How do you foster an open environment without crossing a line? And why does it matter?

Mission Statement

To bring women together in a unique, courageous forum that will build connections, provide a space to be brave and explore what leadership means both personally and professionally.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Charity of the month: CCRI—Please consider bringing diapers (all sizes), personal hygiene items (razors, shaving cream, shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrushes), or cleaning supplies such as laundry soap, bleach, hand soap, dish soap, Clorox wipes, to donate to them and help support the individuals they serve.

Women Connect making a difference Every month, a local charity is chosen, and attendees bring donations to help support our non-profits and the individuals they serve.

#FMWFWC

Monthly events with local speakers to bring women together through targeted topics. A PUSH program also aims to offer outside-thesession small group meetings and support.

3:30 to 5 p.m. Delta by Marriott

As a woman in the workplace, understanding the behaviors that can advance your success and watch-outs for how we sabotage our own “wins” can bring success just as easily as working hard.

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

What is Women Connect?

Thursday, February 27

Last month, we collected boxes of Kleenex for the Boys and Girls Club of the Red River Valley.

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 19

LEADERSHIP FMWF

Leadership class focuses on education For over a decade, the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class has partnered with Junior Achievement to teach hands-on, experiential lessons to local students. For the second year, the participants entered high school classrooms in West Fargo and Fargo to speak to business and marketing classes. The Leadership class participated in Junior Achievement’s Launch Lessons, where each participant had the opportunity to teach students about their career and the organizations they work for. After all of our participants wrapped up their classes, they had the opportunity to experience a mini Junior Achievement lesson with Liza Metzger and Karen Berntson from Junior Achievement, as they joined the class to talk a little more about opportunities with Junior Achievement and the benefit it brings to students. After touring the space, the class spent the afternoon at the Rustad Recreation Center and started off their time with a session focused on opportunities that exist outside a formal education setting. Lance Belisle, West Fargo Park District, Robin Anderson, Boys and Girls Club, Bethany Berkeley, Dale Carnegie of ND/MN, and Beth Postema, Fargo Public Library, served as our panelists and talked about the opportunities each of their organizations bring to the community. We ended the day with a hands-on learning experience furthering our training on communication from Matt Skoy, North Dakota State University.

About Leadership FMWF For more than 30 years, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo has connected and developed leaders who greatly impact the community through dedication and service. Each year, emerging and existing leaders from all sectors of the community participate in the nine-month program. It is designed to expose them to the issues that face our region while challenging and engaging them to strengthen the community through service and leadership. Applications for the next class will open in the spring of 2020.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

20 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 20

Trust can be earned in the smallest of moments while making the most impact for your financial well-being.

For you. For your future. For your legacy.

For over a century our customers have relied on First International Bank & Trust for expert advice and sound financial solutions.

See us first. 5 Convenient F-M Locations (800) 359-8092 | FIBT.com

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

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

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 21

A MUST-SEE Checking Offer!

Frostival is back for its fifth year and is cooler than ever!

starionbank.com Live well. Bank Smart.

888-258-6050

Member FDIC

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.

22 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

Rather than cramming all the fun into a two-day celebration, activities will take place from January 15 to February 22. Expect many of the same events you've come to know and love over the years such as cardboard sled races, winter kickball, disc golf, the undie run, as well as with many new editions! Keep yourself up-to-date by following Frostival on Facebook, or by visiting frostival.com.

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

New benefit for POC members!

Join us! Network Before 9

Friday, December 13 | 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Hornbacher’s Gateway West 2050 Sheyenne Street, West Fargo Join us for a special Network Before 9 this December as we combine POC’s monthly coffee networking hour with YPN’s Morning Buzz! Come meet new members of the POC program and meet members of The Chamber’s YPN. This is a great opportunity to expand your network even further while getting your morning caffeine boost! Don’t forget to bring your business cards!

Are you interested in attending a YPN event? YPN and POC now have reciprocity for their events. Join the YPN Holiday Party, or a Networking to Business event and pay the YPN member price! This new initiative will provide members of both programs the opportunity to further engage in our Chamber community and get more out of their membership dues!

Sign up for the POC email list to be notified of events, announcements and opportunities! Visit fmwfchamber.com/communication.

Mission Statement To impact the FMWF community by creating inclusive opportunities for Professionals of Color to develop personally and professionally through meaningful engagement and a sense of belonging.

HIGHLIGHTS from November

#FMWFPOC

Thank you to Red River Coffee for hosting our Network Before 9 once again in November! What a great way to kick off the holiday season by networking over coffee in your great location! PRESENTING SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota | GOLDMARK Property Management Midco | Minnesota State Community and Technical College

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 23

Team up

for success

Business solutions to improve performance and productivity. Check Out the Affinity Plan, available only to FMWF Chamber Members! • Employee Assistance Program • Workplace Trainings • Consulting Services • Crisis Management Services

www.TheVBI.com • 800-627-8220 24 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

We make human resources easy Other Things We Make Easy: Recruiting & Retaining Staff Workers’ Compensation Employee Benefits Payroll & Tax Administration Government Compliance Safety & Wellness Cloud-Based HR Technologies

Call Today— 800-776-4671 218-847-9277

YEA! YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY

YE A ! students

are off!

Class visits local members and begins business plans November was a busy month for the YEA! class. They had a great field trip to Puzzled Escape Rooms, which has become an annual activity for our program. We enjoy seeing the students bond, work together and think creatively. Engaging in this activity helps the students prepare for the next few classes when more emphasis is placed on idea generation. It also gives them a chance to practice providing and accepting constructive feedback as they all share their perspective on how to best solve their puzzle. We would like to thank Patrick Kirby, Do Good Better Consulting, for joining us to kick of our first class of the year, and Jay Peltier, Dale Carnegie Consulting, who has been serving as our instructor for our Big Idea segment of the class! Both individuals bring great energy and a wealth of business knowledge to the class and we are so thankful they have volunteered their time with YEA!

About YEA!

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) teaches middle and high school students how to start and run their own real businesses. YEA! is a national program, and our chamber is the first and only organization to host a YEA! program in North Dakota and one of few in the entire Midwest. Learn more at fmwfchamber.com/YEA.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

#FMWFYEA PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Friends of YEA!

American Crystal Sugar | Dabbert Custom Homes Talecris Plasma Resources Inc. | Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 25

FREEs, not fees.

GET LOCAL. GET NOW.

Get News. Become a member!

Happy Holidays from your local journalism team!

Darren and Dawn– Bell Customers

inforum.com/subscribe 24559

Member FDIC

new location now open!

2 locations in fargo 3234 47th St S | 2224 Main Ave 26 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

—UPCOMING EVENTS—

E! T A D E TH E V SA

YPN Holiday Party

Tuesday, December 3 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.

Sidestreet Grille & Pub – 404 Fourth Avenue North, Fargo YPN Members: $20 | Non-members: $30 | Registration required

Join us for this festive and fun evening at the annual YPN Holiday Party at Sidestreet Grille & Pub’s new event space above the bar! Come to enjoy great food, a cash bar and the famous naughty or nice paddle game with awesome prizes. This is our biggest bash of the year; you don’t want to miss the fun!

Corporate Cup Registration opens February 3 at 10 a.m.!

*Must be 21 to attend the YPN Holiday Party*

Want to learn how to secure your spot early?

Networking to Business Lunch Volunteering, the Next Step:

Contact Darren at ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com to learn more about our priority registration opportunity!

Non-Profit Boards—What They Do, How They Work, and How to Get Involved

A look at last month

Wednesday, December 4 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Gigi’s Playhouse, 3224 20th Street South, Fargo YPN members: $15 | Non-members: $25 | Registration required

Morning Buzz

Thanks to everyone that came to Off the Clock at Drumconrath Brewing Company and Morning Buzz at Luna in October, and November’s Off the Clock at Urban 42 and Morning Buzz at Sandy’s newest location in south Fargo.

Why YPN?

Friday, December 13 | 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Hornbacher’s Gateway West, 2050 Sheyenne Street, West Fargo

Join us for a special Morning Buzz this December, as we combine YPN’s monthly coffee networking hour with POC’s Network Before 9! Come meet network with YPN members new and old and meet members of The Chamber’s newest program, Professionals of Color. This is a great opportunity to expand your network even further while getting you morning caffeine boost! Don’t forget to bring your business cards!

We believe that a community influenced by young professionals is a community that attracts and retains them. Core to YPN’s strategic agenda is the belief that the more informed, involved and networked young professionals are, the more influence they will have on their community. In YPN, you can connect with your peers, make new friends, learn about business and participate in events. Learn more or join the program at fmwfchamber.com/YPN.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Delta by Marriott

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 27

#FMWFYPN

Are you ready to take your volunteering to the next step? Beyond giving your time and treasure to a non-profit, you may have talents that can help an organization run smoothly and make the biggest impact on the public. Join YPN to learn from non-profit volunteers and employees about what it means to sit on a board, how to know if that is the right space for you in the non-profit world, and how to get involved in that capacity.

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!

Advertise Edge a dvertiseedge.com

Fargo Moorhead Chiropractic and Wellness PA f mchirowellness.com

dvertising A Advertise Edge is an award-winning full-service video marketing agency with a focus on creativity and ROI.

hiropractors C Health and wellness chiropractor focusing on making the community a healthier place through educating individuals on living a healthy lifestyle and preventing injury and maintaining health.

All Things Finance a llthingsfinance.org inancial Services F Through social media, workshops and public speaking, Stephanie Lauritsen teaches everyday people how to get a handle on their money.

Bank Forward b ankforward.com inancial Institutions F Founded in 1927, Bank Forward offers a complete line of personal and commercial financial services.

BRAVE teambrave.co Marketing Services BRAVE is a brand strategy and creative design studio. They work with executive teams at the intersection of creativity, culture, teamwork and customer perception. They listen, they plan and they act.

Cooper Commissioning (CCx) c oopercx.com onstruction Equipment - Supplies C Cooper Commissioning pride themselves on offering their clients a true 3rd-party technical commissioning process. They are completely independent of architects, engineers and contractors. Their main objective is to ensure that their clients receive a building that functions as per the design intent to meet their operational needs. They work closely and proactively with the project team members throughout the commissioning process. They place the responsibility to complete pre-functional checklist verifications and functional testing directly with CCx staff rather than adding to contractors’ work-loads.

Digital Plains LLC d igiplains.com omputer Networking - Services & Equipment C Information technology experts providing cyber security, managed services, help desk, engineering, project, management, staff augmentation and recruitment.

Fargo Air Charter f argoaircharter.com ransportation Services – Airlines T On-demand air charter services and air taxi. They will take you where you need to go on short notice in style and comfort.

28 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

The Great North Pole t hegreatnorthpole.org ocial Services S The Great North Pole utilizes corporate relationships and community partnerships to help turn financial donations into retail goods, multiplying many times the original monetary donation. This allows them to help more families in need and provide not only basic needs to their community members, but also gifts to the children of these families. Their annual Week of Giving is scheduled for the first week of December 2019. Their non-profit is 100% volunteer operated and helped over 2,700 people in 2018!

JBC Commercial Real Estate j bccommercial.com | (701) 929-6000 Real Estate - Commercial/Industrial

Commercial real estate brokerage and developer.

La Fiesta Mexican & American Grill LLC ( 701) 478-3330 Restaurants La Fiesta is a casual Mexican restaurant. With a variety of food including beef, chicken and seafood options, they offer a full bar menu and a few desserts. A cozy atmosphere for a family, a couple on a date or a group. They also offer to-go orders and catering.

Northland PACE N orthlandPACE.com ealth Care Services H Northland PACE Senior Care Services has at its core the goal of helping people age 55 and older stay healthy, independent and remain in their homes and communities as long as possible. PACE stands for: Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. Northland PACE helps aging individuals and their family caregivers by providing and coordinating a full range of healthcare and in-home services.

Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy Inc. o spti.net edical - Physical/Occupational Therapy M OSPTI is dedicated to providing optimal physical therapy in a comfortable, fun setting. They want what is most important for their patients - getting them back to their active lifestyles. Whether it is accomplishing daily activities, work activities, sport or recreational activities, they have what is necessary for success. OSPTI has specialized equipment and therapists to improve any condition in anyone from infancy to 100+ years of age.

Red River ReCell r edriverrecell.com ellular & Wireless Communications C One stop-shop for all mobile device needs. They repair, buy, sell and insure all of types of mobile devices like phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches and more.

ServiceMaster Cleaning Professionals r estorationmasterfinder.com/west-fargo-nd J anitorial Services - Home & Office ServiceMaster Cleaning Professionals provides a range of disaster restoration and janitorial cleaning services for commercial businesses and residential homes. Services include water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, janitorial cleaning 24/7, mold remediation, commercial restoration and much more!

Small Wonders Preschool & Child Care Center, Inc. ( 701) 356-4180 hild Care C Small Wonders is a non-denominational Christian center sharing the love of God while educating the whole child’s emotionally, socially, physically, creatively and cognitively. Their program promotes Christian values and is presented in an atmosphere of love and mutual respect. Their primary focus is to teach educational concepts to children in a caring and loving environment. Developing these concepts will prepare each child to successfully make transitions in every step of his/her life.

Tzadik Management t z-m.com Real Estate - Property Management Tzadik Management has been creating communities to live and play for over 10 years. No matter what you’re looking for, they serve up just the right mix of amenities, conveniences and community programmed activities to keep neighbors connected and families entertained. They are committed to their valued residents and partners who place their trust in Tzadik Management to exceed their expectations.

What’s your next move? Give Back. Move Forward. At First International Bank & Trust, we help dreams come true, one customer, one family, one moment at a time. Making your banking life easy, so you can focus on what matters most. If you are looking for a community bank that puts you fi rst - call, click or stop in and experience our style of banking.

BANKING | MORTGAGE | INSURANCE* TRUST & INVESTMENTS*

5 Convenient F-M Locations (800) 359-8092 | FIBT.com

*Not FDIC or any federal agency insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value

VTI Security v tisecurity.com ecurity - Systems & Services S VTI provides engineering, installation, project management, strategic planning, and service for physical security systems to commercial, industrial, medical, educational and government facilities. Built on their core values of Trust, Mutual Respect, and Accountability, VTI strives to be your trusted business partner to help guide your business in the physical security world.

Want to find all our members? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com. FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 29

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES Congrats to the following Chamber member companies for their exciting announcements! Make sure to congratulate their achievements and recognition next time you see them around town. Want to see your own company news here? Send your press releases to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com. We want to share your good news (for free!) just because you are a valued member.

The City of West Fargo was awarded the Main Street Excellence Award by Governor Doug Burgum and Lt. Governor Brent Sanford during the 2019 Main Street Summit in October in Bismarck. The City of West Fargo was selected in the large city category for this award in recognition of the downtown revitalization efforts that started in 2016 and have transformed Sheyenne Street from Main Avenue to Seventh Avenue West. Emerging Prairie announced a partnership with Microsoft as our community works toward making Grand Farm a reality. This creates a one-of-a-kind partnership between farmers, businesses, government and entrepreneurs. Microsoft is investing $1.5 million in the project and will be bringing the talent of the company’s technologists and data scientists to help realize the vision and ambition of the Grand Farm to be the first fully autonomous farm. Fargo Jet Center Flight School has been recognized for its high standard of accomplishment in flight training by The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the world’s largest aviation association. Fargo Jet Center Flight School has been awarded a spot in the 2019 Flight Training Experience Awards as a Distinguished Flight School, a title given to high scoring flight schools from AOPA’s annual Flight Training Experience Survey.

Four-Color Printing Specialized Coatings Foil & Embossing Die Cutting

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

Fargo, ND 58103 USA ph: 701.235.1121 knightprinting.com

Northwest Truck & Trailer was awarded the distinguished 4 Star Dealership Rating from Aurora Parts & Service Network. This is Aurora's top honor and is awarded based on 25-point criteria including customer satisfaction, year-over-year growth, total parts volume and overall customer support.

Give AAA Gift Memberships

The gift that shows you care. For every AAA Gift Membership you give, your recipient saves $20 on his or her next renewal. If you’re a member of AAA, you save $20 on yours, too! 701-282-6222

AAA.com/Gift

Visit your AAA office

AAA Gift Membership program and availability are subject to change without notice at any time. Visit AAA.com/Gift for full terms and conditions. 17-MS-2518K

30 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

In September, Jeff LeDoux, President/ CEO of Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI), and Shawn Soehren, President and founder of Boundary Engineering, finalized HEI’s acquisition of Boundary Engineering with a handshake and a signature. HEI and Boundary Engineering saw an opportunity to serve their collective clients better together than apart.

Special Olympics North Dakota honored 16 individuals, organizations, and businesses throughout the state for their outstanding commitment and support. From the awards, West Fargo High School was named the 2019 Outstanding School. YWCA Cass Clay has been awarded $10,000 from the seventh annual Eide Bailly Resourcefullness Awards, which recognize nonprofit organizations for their creative and sustainable revenue generating initiatives across five states. Eide Bailly also awarded $2,500 to the Family HealthCare Center for their No-Show Rate Reduction program.

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE Apex Engineering Group

Chloe Anderson, Civil Engineering Intern - Water Duane Waklee, CADD Technician - Water

Appareo

ANDERSON

WAKLEE

BROWN

FLYNN

O PR

ISAKSON

JEE

Breeanna Brown, Digital Marketing Specialist Gabby Flynn, Quality Inspection Technician Paul Isakson, Director, Sales Justin Jee, R&D Engineer Cory Otto, Solutions Engineer April Steffan, Director, Marketing Kory Weckman, Senior Engineer, Mechanical Brenda Wyland, VP, Government Relations Mike Zietz, Staff Engineer, Embedded Software Design

OTTO

STEFFAN

Audubon Dakota

Marshall Johnson, VP of Conservation Ranching Joshua Lefers, Working Lands Programs Manager

Choice Bank

LeRoy Adams, President South Fargo office Eddie Sheeley, President West Fargo office

Dale Carnegie of ND & MN

Katie Munion, Vice President of Training and Quality

WECKMAN

LEFERS

D PR

WYLAND

ED PR

D PR

ADAMS

JOHNSON

ZIETZ

SHEELEY

ED PR

Eide Bailly LLP

Kevin Fraase, Director of Technology Integration Dan Metzger, Director of Support Nathan Novacek, Director of Infrastructure Paul Olson, Director of Information Security Angie Roy, Director of Finance Laura Sokness, Director of HR Operations Dave Winkels, Director of Platform Development

Houston Engineering, Inc.

Benjamin Hengel, Scientist I Chris Papenfuss, Safety Coordinator Paul Strong, Engineer II

MUNION

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

METZGER

NOVACEK

OLSON

ROY

SOKNESS

WINKELS

HENGEL

PAPENFUSS

STRONG FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 31

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE KW Inspire Realty

Megan Carlson, Realtor Mitzi Nowacki, Realtor

North Dakota Safety Council

Michael Adams, Safety Consultant and oil, gas expert Brenden Dockter, Safety Consultant Jared Erling, Program Coordinator, ONE BASIN - One Way! Kristy Goodall, Safety Consultant LaRayne Haakenson Lovgren, Office Assistant

D PR

CARLSON

NOWACKI

ADAMS

DOCKTER

Onsharp

Austin Vanraden, Website Support Coordinator

Park Co. Realtors

Kathy Kemper, REALTOR

Red River Dance & Performing Company

Caitlin Killoran, Executive Director

Spotlight

ERLING

HAAKENSON LOVGREN

GOODALL

VANRADEN

Brady Drake, Editorial Assistant Kirsten Lund, Inbound Marketing Strategist

TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics Elizabeth Maher, New Board Member

Town & Country Credit Union

Emily Brick, Assistant Branch Manager

True|IT

KEMPER

KILLORAN

DRAKE

LUND

LINDGREN

Kelvin Daniels, MSP Sales Professional

Wallwork Truck Centers

Casey Lindgren, General Manager

West Fargo Public Schools

Alyssa Kellas, Aquatics Director

Western Products, Inc.

D PR

Ty Hedman, Marketing Intern Hunter Rademacher, Marketing Intern

MAHER

BRICK

DANIELS

OTHER NEWS

KELLAS

HEDMAN

RADEMACHER

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties Agent Bryan Buhr was named Realtor of the Year by the Lakes Country Association of Realtors as a top performing 2019 member. Tony Gudajtes, EVP & Ag Market President of Choice Bank, has begun his 2-year term on the USDA Beginning Farmers & Ranchers Advisory Committee. He’ll be advising them on policies and programs related to beginning farmers and ranchers across the United States. 32 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

The North Dakota State University Foundation welcomes seven new trustees: Lisa Edison-Smith, Virginia Clark Johnson, Hugh McDonald, Ron Nichols, Ann Noble, Danielle Paulus, and Ron Zink. Foundation trustees are appointed to five-year terms. West Fargo School’s Andrew Potter and Gretchen Peterson received the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching award, which is the nation’s highest honor for U.S. K–12 mathematics and science teachers.

CELEBRATIONS: OCTOBER RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

Amanda Nelson State Farm Grand opening 600 Eighth Street South Suite 100, Moorhead amandanelsoninsurance.com

Beyond Realty Relocation 4832 Amber Valley Parkway, Fargo beyondrealtyfm.com

Christianson’s Business Furniture Remodel/Expansion 2828 13th Avenue South, Fargo cbfplus.com

Crossroads Dental Grand opening 1918 Ninth Street East West Fargo crossroadsdentalnd.com

Audubon Dakota 5-year anniversary/ Grand opening of trails 2315 University Drive North Suite 15, Fargo dakota.audubon.org

Brady Martz New ownership 2537 University Drive South, Fargo bradymartz.com

City of Fargo Main Avenue reconstruction 225 Fourth Street North, Fargo fargond.gov

Floor to Ceiling Carpet One Remodel 360 36th Street South, Fargo floortoceilingcarpetone.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 33

CELEBRATIONS: OCTOBER RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

Foss Swim School Grand opening 1615 38th Street South, Fargo fossswimschool.com/swimminglesson-locations/foss-swimschool-in-fargo-nd/

Marblelife of Fargo Grand opening marblelife.com

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

Rustad Recreation Center Expansion 601 26th Avenue East, West Fargo wfparks.org

34 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2019

Hotdog! Pet Salon Relocation 814 Center Avenue, Moorhead hotdogpetsalon.com

Moorhead Public Service Expansion of Capture the Sun Solar Garden 2200 28th Street North, Moorhead mpsutility.com

ReadiTech IT Solutions Relocation 4870 Rocking Horse Circle South, Fargo readitech.com

Sandy’s Donuts & Coffee Osgood Grand opening 4215 45th Street South, Fargo sandysdonuts.com

CELEBRATIONS: OCTOBER RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

Valley Christian Counseling Center

Wallwork Financial

Relocation 1112 Nodak Drive South, Fargo valleychristiancounselingcenter.com

Remodel 401 38th Street SW, Fargo wallworkfinancial.com

Want your own ribbon cutting? We want to help your business celebrate its important milestones! Chamber ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings are available FREE to any member business. If you have opened your doors within the past year, changed ownership, relocated, remodeled, expanded or are celebrating a milestone anniversary, we would love to help commemorate the occasion.

Walmart

For more information or to schedule, contact Mickayla at 218.359.0517 or mthompson@fmwfchamber.com, or fill out the form at bit.ly/FMWFRibbonRequest. *One ribbon cutting per year per member

10-year anniversary 3757 55th Avenue South, Fargo walmart.com

Your business’s success has been DCN’s business since day one. Whether you have a one- or multisite network, we serve as your business’s single point of contact and provide 24/7/365 support from our highly trained technicians.

Connect to more today! Call us at 800-814-3333.

MORE SPEED. MORE RELIABILITY. MORE SERVICE. Carrier Ethernet

Data Center

Cloud Computing

Dedicated Internet Access

DakotaCarrier.com

Data Storage & Recovery

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 35

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

Corporate Cup is coming! May 21 | Minnesota State University Moorhead Team registrations open February 3 at 10 a.m.! Learn how to save a spot early on page 27 inside.

#FMWFCorpCup