THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DECEMBER 2018
VOL. 22 NO. 4
Community Builders
The Forum O F
2 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
F A R G O - M O O R H E A D
Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.
Voices of Vision:
Photos from the event
Contents
7
December 2018
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
Eggs & Issues: What we learned
8
13 Operation Thank You
17 Business Training
19 Women Connect
22 Leadership
23 Young Professionals Network
25 Young Entrepreneurs Academy
26 New Members
27 Member News
33 Ribbon Cuttings
AD INDEX
Member Profile:
Office Sign Company
Member Spotlight:
Houston Engineering, Inc.
14
21
24 Bethany Retirement Living
24 Beverage Wholesalers
10 Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND
32 Boulger Funeral Home
6 Bremer Bank
32 Choice Bank
32 Cole Papers, Inc.
32 Consolidated Communications
24 Cornerstone Bank
18 Dabbert Custom Homes
30 Dakota Carrier Network
35 Delta by Marriott
24 Eide Bailly
16 Essentia Health
16 First International Bank & Trust
32 Indigo Signworks
35 J&M Printing
32 Knight Printing
24 M State
6 Mortenson 27 NDSCS Back Nodak Insurance Company 35 Pro Resources 6 Talecris
Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber
18 The Village Family Service Center
For past issues of The Bridge: issuu.com/fmwfchamber.com
18 Wells Fargo FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 3
Mission
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through leadership in advocacy, education and engagement
Mark Nisbet Xcel Energy Chair
Vision
Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance Chair Elect
The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business and members
Sandi Piatz Microsoft Treasurer
Strategic Objectives
Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank Immediate Past Chair Steve Halverson Heartland Trust Company Member at Large
Stephanie Maier ClayWilkin Corn & Soybean Leadership FMWF Grower’s Association Brian Shawn Midco Military Affairs
Caitlin Stoecker Arvig
Young Professionals Network
@FMWFTracyP
Carrie Carney Eventide Senior Living Communities
Tracy Powell
Printed by J&M Printing
@FMWFJulieD Katie Mastel
Public Policy Coordinator
@FMWFBobbiJo Bobbi Rehder
Events Coordinator
Tracy Meckler
Membership & Advertising Sales Manager
Alyssa Ralston
Katie Ralston
Professional Development Coordinator
@FMWFMickayla
Director of Events & Programs
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.
@FMWFTyler
@FMWFDarin Communications & Marketing Manager
Public Policy
Women Connect
@FMWFJim
@FMWFPrez Amanda Huggett
Tim Flakoll Tri-College University
@FMWFTracyM
Jess Almlie Discovery Benefits
Business Training
Tyler Fischbach
Multimedia Coordinator
@FMWFKatieR
Jan Monda Warner and Company Insurance
Ambassador Member Relations
Darin Feir
Graphics & Publications Coordinator
Membership Services Manager
@FMWFJulieY
Ambassador Public Relations
Darren Dunlop
Business Development Manager
Information Systems Administrator
VP of Finance/Operations
@FMWFKatie
Bryan Kingsley Midco
President/CEO
Julie Doggett
Jim Parsons
@FMWFAlyssa
Nancy Johnson ND Soybean Growers Agribusiness Association
Craig Whitney @FMWFDarren
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
THE CHAMBER STAFF
@FMWFAmanda
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. Jodi Duncan Flint Group Judd Graham Bremer Bank Jenni Huotari Eide Bailly Brittany Montecuollo Sanford Health Joanna Slominski Mortenson Jeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc. Craig Whitney The Chamber
••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
Mickayla Thompson Member Relations Coordinator
Julie Yourczek
Office Administrator
a note from the
PRESIDENT
The stage is set We’ve finished another incredibly impressive year as The Chamber’s fiscal year ended August 31. Now, we rejoice and celebrate the holidays while bringing in the New Year with family, friends and business associates. As we look ahead, we are thankful for a community that continues to grow, prosper and celebrate one of the strongest business communities in our size market. There are too many success stories to realize and recognize. We should pause in our busy schedules to remember how blessed we are to live in a metro on the move. Sure, we have challenges in the year(s) ahead, but stop right there. We have a vibrant economy and enjoy one of the strongest agriculture economies in the land despite struggling commodity prices. According to the North Dakota Department of Commerce, agriculture is still the #1 industry in North Dakota’s economy, and the state typically leads the nation in over a dozen crops. And don’t forget oil and gas, technology, manufacturing and much more that makes ND one of the strongest states in the union. As a region, we now have a major concept to embrace— regionalism! We are a metro on the grow, and it’s high time to embrace it, learn it and live it. As Ronald Regan once said, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” We must say this to our region, our cities and our citizens in regard to our own natural barriers. We must stop letting state and city lines as well as rivers and bridges divide our communities, and instead embrace our region as a whole. Many residents and leaders of the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area have participated in a discussion that expands the vision of our region beyond the charter of such organizations
as The Chamber, the economic development entities and other services groups. While each entity has significant year-to-year goals to budget and pursue, residents, business and elected leaders have advocated for an opportunity to form perhaps a regional platform to nudge decision making a bit into the longer term future. The concept to “fuel our future” has taken shape as a multi-year vision to tackle workforce, growth and asset infrastructure topics that have not been addressed in a satisfactory, multi-year way with a view toward 2030 and our next generation of citizens. The concept of “Fueling Our Future” is a priority for our Chamber and its partners, to promote growth and prosperity for the entire community. As we focus on advancing sound public policy that benefits us all, with renewed effort in our membership services, we believe that participation in the longer term vision falls within the work of our Chamber. We’re not just a place for events and training or networking (but don’t get me wrong, that is also core to our business); but also for representation, for working on behalf of our members, for rolling our sleeves up to be a true resource for businesses, entrepreneurs and citizens to know and trust that we’ve got their backs. We hope you’re on board. Let’s fuel our future with the vision we fully intend to realize.
Craig Whitney President / CEO The Chamber
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 5
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Thursday, December 6 4:30 to 7 p.m. Delta by Marriott
Call for more information.
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6 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
5/11/18 2:31 PM
Dreaming big with Danica:
VOICES OF VISION 2018 RECAP Famed race car driver Danica Patrick took the stage at our ninth annual Voices of Vision event. Patrick talked about the importance of dreaming big, digging deep and trying harder. She shared her own dreams, and how her early start lead to an impressive career in racing. A career that shattered the gender barrier in racing and set her on a path to success. Even after her recent retirement, Patrick has stayed busy with various entrepreneurial ventures based on following her dreams and things that bring her joy. From a book to a clothing line and winery, Patrick’s success is following her off the track, too. After her presentation, Patrick answered questions from moderator Dan Michaels and from the audience. She talked about her upbringing, retirement, other hobbies and interests, Aaron Rodgers and speeding tickets.
“Learn the difference between letting go and quitting. Sometimes you have to know when to walk away and instead look to what is next.”
“If you want to make a dream a reality, you have to believe it.”
“There’s no ‘i’ in team, but there is in win.”
“Life is short. Find joy. Follow your calling. Be honest. Figure out your truth.” “Looking like a girl and being feminine did not take away from my ability as a driver. Whatever makes you different is what you need to focus on and use. Don’t hide who you are.”
“There are two different laws in life. One is fear; one is love. Work out of love versus fear.” PRESENTING SPONSOR
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 7
EGGS & ISSUES
#FMWFEggs
National Guard Update: Eggs & Issues Recap For November’s Eggs & Issues, we were honored to bring in the leadership of our armed forces for an update on the North Dakota National Guard. We were joined by Brig. Gen. Robert Becklund, Deputy Adjutant General; Col. Darrin Anderson, 119th Wing Commander and Maj. Christopher Olson, Logistics Officer for the 141 Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. Brig. Gen. Becklund kicked off the program, touching on the major legislative initiatives that the Guard will be focusing on for the upcoming legislative session. As he noted, “the biggest issue currently is with tuition assistance.” He went on to explain that the federal government offers tuition assistance to every branch of the military except the Air National Guard as they have never had a national recruitment problem, thus all of our local Air Guard members rely on state tuition assistance while the army can rely some on national assistance. The tuition assistance provided to soldiers is an impressive incentive for our military personal allowing us to recruit the highest caliber individuals. Another priority that was expanded on was a training area expansion at Camp Grafton South, which would prove an asset for not only the National Guard and active duty Air Force, but also other units that come in. Becklund also made note of Governor
Burgum’s established commission, NDCOMPASS (ND Commission on Military Promotion and Strategic Sustainment) meant to explore and address military issues in the state in order to make North Dakota more military friendly. In addition, he outlined the legislative priorities including military retirement from the state taxation; improving cross-state border licensure portability for professionals; academic credits for military acquired skills; and enhancing access to affordable behavior health services in North Dakotas.
“It’s part of our mission to assist in domestic operations as well”
Colonel Anderson informed us that 2018 was a great year for recruiting with a total of 123 accessions, which is a historical record. The retention rate at the 119th is 93%. He touched on the fact that the wing is very much operational every day, flying the MQ-9 mission, and in addition, the intelligence surveillance reconnaissance group supports the global air operations centers all over world. It’s been a busy year for the Happy Hooligans and they have had more people employed than any other time in history. Anderson reminded those in attendance
“the biggest issue currently is with tuition assistance.”
8 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
that in addition to federal missions, the Happy Hooligans also do state missions for things like natural disasters. He then went on to discuss the regional training site out at Hector where 500-600 students rotate through a year. Some of the ongoing goals that Anderson mentioned included facility construction and mobilization. The unit also continues to work hard to gain back a manned flying mission as North Dakota is the only state in the union where the Air National Guard doesn’t have a manned flying mission. Major Olson offered comments on the North Dakota Army National Guard. He opened touching on the 141st MEB footprint being large across the state as a whole. He said that most individuals will be sticking close to home for training and operations in 2019. The largest takeaway from his segment was the fact that in addition to the guard serving oversees they do a lot of work right here at home. As Olson spoke, “It’s part of our mission to assist in domestic operations as well,” going on to explain this would be for flooding and things of that nature. They are also undertaking a large construction project to be completed in 2021. For a full recap and slides, visit The Chamber blog.
EGGS & ISSUES Tuesday, December 11
Thursday, January 3
ND’s Legislative Outlook:
SPECIAL DATE!
A Local Look at U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Legislative Leadership’s Take on the Upcoming Session
Jared Olafson Port Director Warroad, MN
As North Dakota soon heads into a new legislative session, we will be joined by both Majority and Minority leaders of the North Dakota Senate and House. This month the event will be a week later than usual so that legislative leadership can recap the interim and December’s organizational session, as well as provide an outlook regarding the contentious issues expected for the upcoming session.
January’s Eggs & Issues will be centered around U.S. Customs and Border Protection, as we welcome in the Port Director for Field Operations in Warroad, Minnesota, to speak about Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler Programs to include NEXUS and Global Entry. These new technological advancements allow for expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Olafson will discuss the Remote Offsite Arrival mobile application that allows travelers to check in with CBP at the Northwest Angle, MN and in certain remote parts of the country. With both North Dakota and Minnesota being on our county’s border, and national security being a current topic of debate, join us for this timely discussion to hear both local concerns and opportunities.
7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead
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.
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 • 9
N O R T H D A K O TA S T Y L E
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Derek VanDyke Ryan Hartje Minot/Williston • 701.858.5019 Bismarck • 701.255.5562
Nicole Wolla Dickinson • 701.715.9028
Don Kramer Grand Forks • 701.795.5348
Kari Hunt Devils Lake • 701.282.1165
Derek Visit VanDyke EmployerPlansND.com Minot/Williston • 701.858.5019
Visit
EmployerPlansND.com
Election Season Wrap-Up As another election cycle wraps up, The Chamber thanks you for your engagement in the political process this year. North Dakota had a high voter turnout for a midterm election with 329,086 citizens or 57% of eligible voters casting ballots across the state. Cass County followed that trend, with 56.5% of eligible voters heading to the polls. Voter turnout in Minnesota was one of its highest since the early 2000s as the Secretary of State’s Office estimates nearly 64% of eligible voters in the state exercising their right to vote.
Measures 1, 2 and 4 pass; Measure 3 fails
The Chamber, upon recommendation from the Public Policy committee and an official vote from the Board of Directors, opposed North Dakota Statewide Measures 1 and 3. Measure 1, pertaining to transparency of funding sources, lobbyists, conflicts of interest, and the establishment of an ethics commission, passed with 54% in favor of the language and 46% against. We plan to keep following this newly approved measure and will provide more information on the enactment process when it becomes available Measure 2, pertaining to the elections in which a qualified elector may vote, had votes 66% in favor of the measure and only 34% opposing, thus this measure also passed. Measure 3, pertaining to the legalization of marijuana, was the only measure that failed on North Dakota’s statewide ballot. This measure also had the highest voter turnout of the four with 324,550 ballots cast on the measure. 41% of votes were in approval of recreational marijuana with 59% in opposition.
Public Policy Guide coming soon!
Legislative sessions in both Minnesota and North Dakota are quickly approaching in January. Watch for The Chamber’s online 2019 Public Policy Guide, highlighting the important issues that The Chamber is advocating for including workforce, infrastructure, education and more. The guide will also include helpful information in regards to legislative session and elected officials.
2018 PUBLIC POLICY GUIDE A guide to the area’s political and legislative landscape and overview of The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber’s public policy views and efforts.
Measure 4, pertaining to establishing personalized vehicle plates for volunteer emergency responders, passed with 64% voting yes and 36% voting no with a total of 315,161 voters weighing in on the matter. Fargo’s measure 1, approval voting, passed with 63.5% in favor of the new voting method and 36.5% against. The Chamber would like to extend a thank you to all candidates on both sides of the river who worked extremely hard this election cycle and were willing to serve their communities. Congratulations to all newly elected officials! We look forward to working alongside you on various opportunities.
PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAM SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 11
Tax Reform is Reality: What You and Your Business Need to Know for Year-End Planning and Beyond Tuesday, December 4 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Courtyard by Marriott Congress has passed the largest and most comprehensive tax reform legislation in the past 30 years. Businesses and individuals alike have struggled to figure out what this means for their current situation and moving forward. Now, as year-end approaches and 2019 is on the horizon, tax reform is no longer talk. It’s a reality. Businesses must take into account new rules and regulations, both as they wrap up the current year and begin to plan for future years. Without correct planning and an understanding of the law’s impacts, businesses could be left holding hefty tax bills. PRESENTING SPONSOR
Join Eide Bailly and The Chamber as we discuss the impact of tax reform and next steps to consider with your business. We’ll cover: •• What
you need to know about tax reform
•• What
can you do before year end to manage your 2018 tax liability
•• This
is not simplification! — Additional information you will need to file your 2018 income taxes
•• How
you can plan for 2019 and beyond
REGISTRATION
(includes lunch)
Chamber Members: $30 in advance/$35 at the door Corporate Table Sponsors: $650 (table of eight) Non-Members: $40 in advance/$45 at the door
The event will feature Adam Sweet, who works in Eide Bailly’s National Tax Office. Adam has a talent for distilling tax rules into concepts that can be understood by non-tax professionals. He specializes in partnership taxation rules and has become a regular speaker on the subject of tax reform.
Agribusiness Recap Keith Peltier, State Board of Agricultural Research and Education (SBARE) chair, as well as Greg Lardy, Associate VP-Ag Affairs at NDSU, joined the Agribusiness committee for their November meeting to give a SBARE update. They shared information about their current campaign to explain the board and promote research initiatives. In addition, they explained the high ROI of agriculture research, citing North Dakota’s benefitcost ratio as 20:1. They also touched on several SBARE priorities and initiatives including enhancing research capacity and requesting capital improvements.
AGRIBUSINESS PROGRAM SPONSOR
12 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
OPERATION OPERATION THANK YOU SPONSORS
THANK YOU January 16-17, 2019
Every year, our Operation Thank You has a mission to say thank you to our members! Watch out, because we’ll be stopping by this January.
What happens during Operation Thank You? •• Ambassadors and Chamber
volunteers gather to assemble new membership packets
•• Then, we hit the town to hand-
deliver packets to all local members
•• Receive your new member
materials and visit with our team
•• We love learning about your business
and talking about how we can help
What’s in the packet? •• Your 2019 window cling •• 2019 Metro Profile &
Membership Directory
•• 2019 Chamber events list •• Metro Map •• And more!
For more information or to become involved and volunteer, contact Mickayla at mthompson@fmwfchamber.com.
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 13
MEMBER PROFILE
Young Professionals Best Place to Work
You might not think that a company that makes signs is exciting, but one look inside Office Sign Company, and you’d be surprised. This signage company has only been around for 10 years, but has experienced tremendous growth and success thanks to its founder Ryan Fritz, who has built not just a successful business, but a company culture that rivals the best. Of its 47 full-time employees, over three-quarters of those are young professionals. And with a specific strategy in place to attract, retain and reward employees, it’s not hard to see why Office Sign Company has positioned itself as a desirable place to work for those early in their careers. What makes work so enjoyable there? Well, it starts with their philosophy that happy employees are their most valuable
resource. Nearly every day at the office, you could engage in a range of activities beyond your desk. You might find yourself involved in a Spikeball or Ping Pong tournament. Or visiting the in-house kegerator. Or attending a RedHawks or Force game, participating in office Olympics or a having a picnic. Fun and games aside, they also offer a generous benefits package, encourage education and training, volunteerism and career development. Managers conduct one-on-one interviews, asking employees where they would like their career to go, and how OSC can help “Being a sign-maker is challenging them get there. and incredibly fun. My cohorts “Whether Office are unbelievably creative and Sign Company is hardworking, which pushes me just a stop along the
to better myself.”
—Stefan Robinson
Engraving Supervisor
14 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
“The people and the culture here are amazing. Along with that, I love that we are Chamber members. I get to go into the community and attend events like Business After Hours, Corporate Cup and Women Connect. It’s important to me to grow both professionally and personally, and I feel that OSC pushes me to do this well.” —Sandie Kuehn
Art Department Manager
way for our young professionals, or it is their end destination, we create positions and opportunities that align with our employees’ desires, and few organizations in this area can say that and stand behind it,” Fritz said. OSC also encourages staff to attend career building opportunities including networking groups, Chamber or Dale Carnegie luncheons and trainings, etc. “If they can help build their professional network, all while taking away some valuable information that will benefit them at OSC and beyond, we think it’s a winwin for the company and staff,” Fritz said.
Service is one of the backbone values at Office Sign Company, and they aim to hire young professionals that are equally invested in giving back. The OSCares team is a committee that offers volunteer opportunities in the community every four to six weeks. Some of the opportunities have included bell-ringing for Salvation Army, preparing meals for RMHC, participating in the membership drive phonathon for Prairie Public, and leading a “build your own sign” activity for Charism’s after school program. The company’s leadership makes a point to give back to those same employees by offering an inclusive community
where everyone feels that they have a place. Raises and promotions are commonplace, but their favorite way to reward employees is through small acts that show appreciation, such as “Rising Star Awards” each quarter, “OSCar Awards” in December, or random Dilly Bar and ice cream social days. Office Sign Company is much more than a signage industry; it’s a place for young professionals to learn and grow in their careers and a ground for teaching. It’s a company that fosters service and culture, and will continue to do so in the next 10 years!
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 15
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800 30th Ave S (218) 359-2100
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Proud to call this place home.
LIKE NOWHERE ELSE In this place, we face challenges head on, believing that with community and commitment, we can build something better. Live healthier. Take care of each other. This is our role in the story. With top physicians and providers, world-class technology and personalized care, Essentia Health helps you realize your best health where you live. Schedule an appointment online at EssentiaHealth.org.
16 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
West Fargo
1350 13th Ave E (701) 281-2700
BUSINESS TRAINING Wednesday, December 12
Failure is Not an Option; it is a Necessity Daniel Klug
Wednesday, January 9
From Untapped to Optimized: How to Engage, Lead and Inspire Today’s Workforce Andrea Hochhalter
Culture & Change Management Lead Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota
Emily Porter
Founder Beyond Facilitation
Have you ever experienced a failure or a loss? Not a simple mistake, but rather an event that left you defeated and full of self-doubt? You are not alone. Failure and losses are experiences everyone will go through at some time in their life. However, successful individuals have found a way to learn from, overcome and leverage these negative experiences for future success. At this session, attendees will be able to implement a practical approach to self-reflection, emotional intelligence and maturity; understand the root cause of failures; cope with criticism; and become motivated to learn from and overcome past failures for future success.
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Delta by Marriott
Chief Marketing Officer Beyond Facilitation
We’ve long known that employees tend to prefer to work toward the top of their skill set, and they want to be engaged and have a sense of purpose at work. What’s different now? The lion’s share of today’s workforce (68%) is comprised of Gen Xers and Millennials, who value these elements even more than previous generations. This generational shift is putting a different demand on leaders and managers. In fact, approaches that have worked in the past may have the opposite effect now: causing tension, stifling innovation, and driving turn-over. The good news is there is an approach that can improve morale and performance: facilitative leadership. In this presentation, learn trends driving the change, a practical approach to the facilitative leadership style, and why and how it works.
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo
REGISTRATION (includes lunch)
• 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.
HIGHLIGHTS from last month
#FMWFTraining
Dean Froslie knows content and how it can help the customer experience. November’s Business Training took a look at digital marketing and how to create cohesive and effective messages online. After lunch, Froslie guided attendees through activities to identify their current channels, build an empathy map and identify gaps in their efforts. PROGRAM SPONSORS
EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR
Consolidated Communications | Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management Moore Engineering | TrueIT | Wanzek Construction, Inc. FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 17
Charlie Lindberg Zaundra Bina
Bank with a relationship team that knows your business
The Village Business Institute offers solutions to help your employees and your organization succeed! • Employee Assistance Programs • Leadership and Employee Training • Human Resources Consultation • Workplace Mediation • Crisis Management Services Who are you going to trust to help you take care of your people?
www.TheVBI.com 800-627-8220
701-205-4979 DABBERTHOMES.COM
18 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
Your business is our business. Wells Fargo Business Banking offers the knowledge, products, and services to meet your company’s needs now, and in the future. No matter where your company is in the business cycle, we can help. Learn more at wellsfargo.com.
© 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. PDS-1313966
ENJOY THE HOLIDAY IN A
New Custom Home
WOMEN CONNECT Tuesday, December 18
Building Belonging: Cultivating a Culture of Inclusion
Tuesday, January 22
ANNUAL CELEBRATION featuring Rachel Hollis
Sandi Piatz
Rachel Hollis
Director Microsoft Fargo Site Leader
Author
msrachelhollis
SandiPiatz
Studies show the positive impact a diverse workplace has on an organization. Supporting diversity by fostering a sense of belonging is one of the most valuable attributes for leaders to engage and retain team members. Through proactive, intentional and focused leadership, we can build belonging. Join the journey and learn more about building belonging and cultivating a culture of inclusion at this session of Women Connect. Please consider bringing art supplies or children’s word find books for the Hospice Youth Journeys Program.
3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center
REGISTRATION
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Rachel Hollis, author of the best-selling book Girl, Wash Your Face will headline Women Connect’s fifth anniversary event! This incredible woman has been taking the best seller lists and speaking circuit by storm, and she recently premiered a documentary, Made for More, nationwide, including two local showings! Hear from her first-hand, live in Fargo this January as we celebrate another year of Women Connect. Gather your girlfriends and help us ring in a new year at this afternoon outing!
N ATIOTING C O EW L SEA
All attendees receive a free copy of her book!
3 to 5 p.m. Sanford Health Athletic Complex
!
N
WITH
E
MOR
• Chamber members: $25 in advance | $30 at the door • Non-members: $35 in advance | $40 at the door
Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.
HIGHLIGHTS from last month
#FMWFWC
Have you had the project of your career yet? Susan Jarvis has! She shared her experience moving to our metro from the south, and then executing on the new Sanford hospital, at October’s Women Connect. Plus, we collected 180 pairs of socks for women and children at the YWCA Cass-Clay!
PROGRAM SPONSORS
EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR
Bell Bank | Bremer Bank | Choice Bank | Delta by Marriott | Discovery Benefits, Inc. Eventide Senior Living Communities | First International Bank & Trust | Gate City Bank Otter Tail Corporation | Vogel Law Firm | Wanzek Construction, Inc. | Western State Bank
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 19
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Bernie Dardis Mayor of West Fargo
Tim Mahoney Mayor of Fargo
#SOC19
Thursday, January 10 | 8 to 9:30 a.m. | Holiday Inn Fargo
PRESENTING SPONSOR
ECONOMIC #EOF19 OUTLOOK FORUM
Wednesday, February 20 Noon to 1:30 p.m. Delta by Marriott
Our annual economic event is back! Stay tuned to find out who will present the keynote address. We’ll also present the results of an economic survey from Chamber members to examine our local outlook and trends.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
20 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
Johnathan Judd Mayor of Moorhead
Chad Olson Mayor of Dilworth
With the election now in the rear view and eyes on the future, where is our region headed? What challenges do we face and what successes can we celebrate? For the first time in four years, we will have two new faces join our panel at the annual State of the Cities. Congrats to newly elected mayors Bernie Dardis in West Fargo and Johnathan Judd in Moorhead. They’ll be joining Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney and Dilworth Mayor Chad Olson for a community-wide discussion. Drop in to hear all these leaders’ take on their respective cities and our region.
Regist er for these at fmw events fcham b e by call r.com ing 21 or 8.233. 1100.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI) is a private consulting firm that offers civil engineering, environmental, planning, surveying and technology services. HEI was founded in Fargo 50 years ago, and their mission is to improve the quality of life in our communities through responsible infrastructure solutions.
What makes your organization unique? We uniquely integrate technology, engineering and science through custom programming, proprietary software and web solutions. We accomplish this by seeking and retaining professionals who are hungry, humble and smart. These characteristics help our staff stand out and provide better services to clients while serving as both leaders and team players internally.
Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now? HEI recently opened offices in Sioux Falls and West Des Moines. We are also in the process of adding new types of consulting expertise. As these offices and services grow, our staff right here in Fargo will help provide those professional services. In fact, all of our offices utilize each other’s staff—cross office work share, or COWS, as we call it. This collaboration has allowed us to provide services to more than 32 states as well as in Mexico and Canada.
What do you like best about doing business here? There is an immense amount of talent in our community, and it continues to grow. The universities and colleges produce exceptional engineers, scientists and other professional staff. This pool of
talent makes it easier for us to ensure we have the staff we need to best serve our clients. That’s not a small feat because of the wide range of services we provide our clients.
What is one thing you most want others to know? HEI has worked hard over the past 50 years to create a successful culture that values, empowers and rewards its employees. This isn’t something that happens by accident. Although we plan to continuously improve and promote a healthy culture, we believe we’ve already had some success—Prairie Business has recognized HEI in its “Top 50 Places to Work” five years in a row now. That’s a streak we intend to keep going.
What do you like most about being a member of The Chamber? The Chamber provides learning opportunities that keep us informed about current trends and activities. There are also opportunities for self-improvement through various forms of training and education. The Chamber also represents our business well and provides networking opportunities to develop relationships with other businesses.
—Jeff LeDoux, President/CEO
What’s your best business tip? Value people, not assets. Plan to be in a constant state of change, adapting to the needs and the world around us. And never stop innovating. It’s never easy to embrace new techniques or the latest technology when you already have a familiar way of doing things, but innovation is what will keep you competitive into the future.
Employees: More than 200
(100 in FMWF)
Year founded: 1968 Office locations: •• Fargo
•• Bismarck •• Minot
•• Grand
Forks
•• Dickinson
•• Maple
Grove River Falls •• Sioux Falls •• West Des Moines •• Thief
FAST FACTS Company awards/certifications: •• Prairie
Business’ “Top 50 Places to Work” five years in a row •• ENR (Engineering NewsRecord) 2018 Top 500 Design Firms in the US •• Numerous design awards throughout the region FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 21
LEADERSHIP
Leadership class learns non-profits
The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metro has a number of non-profit organizations that serve diverse populations in our community. For many, gaining exposure to gather funds or volunteers for their organization is important. For our November session, the Leadership class had the opportunity to learn about a variety of different non-profit organizations in the community. The day stared at the Red River Zoo with a welcome and some background on the zoo from executive director Sally Jacobson. Then Greg Diehl and Lexi Oestreich from the FM Area Foundation spoke about what the foundation does and the impact it has on our community. They also talked about their newly launched Caring Catalog, which provides a new opportunity for non-profits to raise funds to fit specific needs and allows individuals to donate through the FM Area Foundation at a smaller amount! After our time at the zoo, participants split into group to tour non-profits in the community. This year, participants had the opportunity to tour the Ronald McDonald House, the Vocational Training Center,
22 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
Habitat for Humanity’s RESTORE and Churches United for the Homeless. This provided the class with the opportunity to get an insider’s look at the difference these organizations are making to the individuals and families they serve.
“What a great day. I learned so much and was able to see the challenges we have in our community.” To finish the day, the class headed to Drekker Brewing Company—Brewhalla to hold our non-profit roundtables. Roundtable leaders were Troy Davis, Prairie Public; Billi Jo Zielinski, Make A Wish; and Danella Myers, Emerging Prairie. Our participants were able to learn about these non-profits and learn about the work their boards do to help these organizations function.
“It was a great day! It’s a major reason why I wanted to get involved in Chamber Leadership .. to learn more about our community and to get involved into our nonprofits and volunteer my time.”
PROGRAM SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
Midwest Radio of FM
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK YPN Holiday Party
Wednesday, December 5 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Drekker Brewing Company-Brewhalla 1666 First Avenue North, Fargo Registration Required $25 members, $30 non-members (includes drink ticket)
Corporate Cup Registration
Mark your calendars! The 2019 Corporate Cup is set for May 23 at Minnesota State University Moorhead. Registration opens February 4 at 10 a.m.! This event sells out fast; you don’t want to miss out.
Join us for this festive and fun evening at the annual YPN Holiday Party at Drekker Brewing Company’s new Brewhalla! 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!
Off the Clock
Tuesday, January 15 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Hi Ho Burgers and Brews 3051 25th Street South, Fargo Need something to do after work instead of heading home? After you clock out, pop in to see us! The YPN will be gathering this month at Hi Ho Burgers and Brews for fun networking in a relaxed setting. Connect with your peers while checking out one of the great organizations in our region. *You must be 21 to attend Off the Clock events*
A Call for YPN’s One to Watch
YPN is looking for nominations for our One to Watch Award. Recipients of this award will be featured in The Bridge and on our social media outlets.
To nominate an employee, team member or peer that goes above and beyond to make a positive impact in their workplace and our community, visit bit.ly/FMWFOTW or email aralston@fmwfchamber.com with the nominee’s name and company and a brief explanation why you think they should be YPN’s next One to Watch.
HIGHLIGHTS from last month
Thank you to Labby’s Grill and Bar for hosting our monthly Off the Clock in November! We also want to thank those who attended our October Networking to Business event and Sami Eidinschink for facilitating the event!
#FMWFYPN
YPN has been busy! Thank you to all that joined us last month at West Acres for our Business Tour! Thank you to Brad Schlossman and his team at West Acres for the fun and educational event.
PROGRAM SPONSORS
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 23
EIDE LIKE I’D LIKE TO SUPPORT MY COMMUNITY
When communities work together, we all win. We’re proud to support The Chamber.
What inspires you, inspires us. 701.239.8500 | eidebailly.com
Come to any M State campus between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Thank You! reside. relax. rehab.
24 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
for voting us “BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY” 8 years in a row!
January 8-9
At 1Stop2Enroll, you can apply, get accepted and register, all in one day! Visit minnesota.edu/1stop2enroll for more information. Spring semester begins January 14. Minnesota State Community and Technical College, A member of the Minnesota State system, is an affirmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer.
YEA!: YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY
local members and begins business plans
Thank you to Puzzled Escape Rooms for hosting our class again! We had so much fun! Thank you, Scoop N Dough for the sweet treat during our field trip last month!
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.
#FMWFYEA
YEA! students are off! Class visits
We also started welcoming guest speakers to our classroom. We are so grateful for the information they provided to our class.
Looking Ahead At this point in the program, the students have solidified their business ideas and have started working on their business plans. They will also start meeting with their mentors this month, which is earlier than ever before! Year after year we see really promising and exciting ideas come through our program, and this year is no different. We look forward to seeing these ideas take shape as they evolve into real businesses.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
PROGRAM SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS Friends of YEA! American Crystal Sugar | Dabbert Custom Homes Office Sign Company
Aldevron | Bremer Bank | Concordia College Dawson Insurance | Eide Bailly | LaQuinta Inn & Suites Minnesota State University Moorhead | National Hospitality Services North Dakota State University | Radio FM Media | TrueNorth Steel
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 25
NEW MEMBERS Barks & Recreation
barksandrecfargo.com Pet Supplies & Services Barks & Recreation is Fargo‑Moorhead’s premier pet resort offering pet sitting, dog lodging, day care enrichment, training and pet photography.
Brite‑Way Window Cleaning, Inc.
kellersbriteway.com Window Cleaning – Residential/Commercial Brite Way Window Cleaning is the Fargo‑Moorhead area’s premier window cleaning company. They guarantee they will provide the highest value in window cleaning with 100% customer satisfaction every time. On location at your business or home, you will experience timely, clean and professional service.
Choice Bank
choicefinancialgroup.com Financial Institutions Choice Bank focuses on providing a complete array of financial solutions, including banking, investments, insurance and mortgage.
Construction Engineers
constructionengineers.com Consultants & Construction Management They provide general contracting services in North Dakota and Northwest Minnesota. Their broad experience provides the basis for the best service in the industry for your commercial offices, educational establishments, health care centers and public facilities, as well as industrial projects.
Design Resources Group
drgteam.com Architects Design Resources Group is an architectural firm specializing in commercial office space, retail centers, multi‑family housing and hospitality, from program development and master planning through construction completion.
Want to find all our members? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com.
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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!
Farmers Insurance Scott Peters Agency
agents.farmers.com/nd/west‑fargo/scott‑peters Insurance As your local Farmers® agent in West Fargo, Scott Peters help customers like you identify the insurance coverage that best fits your needs. This process is straightforward and personalized to help make you smarter about insurance. Peters has the knowledge and experience to help you better understand your coverage options, whether that’s auto, home, renters, business insurance and more.
Griswold Home Care of North Dakota
griswoldhomecare.com/fargo‑grand‑forks Home Care Services Griswold Home Care supports families by referring professional caregivers for personal care, safety assistance, homemaking and companionship services. They provide non‑medical in home‑care anywhere from one hour a day to 24/7 care.
Innovative Employee Benefit Solutions Inc.
innovativeemployeebenefitsolutions.com Insurance ‑ Investments ‑ Employee Benefits Innovative Employee Benefit Solutions Inc. (IEBS) is “The Missing Piece to Every Puzzle.” As an employers’ nocost employee benefits arm of their HR department, IEBS averages saving new clients 30% resources such as a custom benefits webpage and a call center for new hires add value and save time.
Maple Creek Apartments
fargomoorheadliving.com Apartments Maple Creek Apartments has a friendly and helpful staff that will strive to provide you with prompt, quality and professional service.
Meadowlark Logistics, LLC
www.mdolark.com Transportation Services Meadowlark Logistics, LLC is a courier network providing logistic and transportation services. They can move and manage shipments within our ground transportation network across ND, SD, MN and IA. They also provide flight options with endless shipping and receiving destinations. Warehousing is available.
Metro by T‑Mobile (three locations)
metropcs.com Cellular & Wireless Communications Introducing Metro by T‑Mobile, a new brand and new mission to give value‑conscious consumers a trade‑off free wireless experience. And, because Metro by T‑Mobile is T‑Mobile, you get the latest and greatest Android and iOS smartphones on the same advanced network that covers 99% of the population.
Olive Street
shopolivestreet.com Retail ‑ Stores/Ecommerce Olive Street was founded to provide sophisticated and trend‑driven shoes and accessories to women of all ages. They take pride in being the finishing touches on your already curated outfit to make you feel your most confident and best self.
Panda Express
pandaexpress.com Restaurants Panda Express is famous for wokking up delicious, one‑of‑a‑kind entrees such as signature Orange Chicken and zesty Beijing Beef. A large menu of other traditional Chinese dishes like spicy Kung Pao Chicken and savory Broccoli Beef are also freshly made every day as well.
Project Phoenix
pxdbproject.com Computer/Mobile App Software & Services Project Phoenix offers the drone‑service industry a home for remote pilots to sell their work online and be contracted to fly: AegisFlow connects people to pilots.
Zimney Foster PC
northdakotalaw.net Attorneys The attorneys at Zimney Foster P.C. specialize in variety of legal areas including banking and commercial law, business law, construction law, family law, insurance law, mediation, personal injury law, real estate law and estate planning.
MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) announced that Bergstrom Electric received a 2018 IEC National Award of Excellence in Electrical Construction in the Commercial Construction category. Bergstrom Electric submitted for award consideration their work on the Four Winds Alternative & CTE High School project located in Ft. Totten, North Dakota, the Minnkota Power Cooperative’s new campus in Grand Forks, and the North Dakota Surgery Center, also in Grand Forks. The Four Winds School project was selected by the national committee for an Eagle award. Choice Bank was named one of the Best Banks to Work For by American Banker for the fourth year in a row. Some highlights featured by American Banker include how Choice Bank values career development and training for employees, how employees enjoy flexible schedules for family activities and events, and convenient and forward-thinking technology like video phones. The Best Banks to Work For program identifies, recognizes and honors U.S. banks for outstanding employee satisfaction. Doosan Bobcat North America has partnered with SafeAI – a startup company located in Silicon Valley—to explore how advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies could be incorporated into Bobcat® equipment. Through this pilot program, SafeAI plans to demonstrate how the latest AI technologies, Deep Neural Networks and Deep Reinforcement Learning, can be used to perceive complex dynamic environments around equipment and provide automated control.
Two projects by JLG Architects have earned design awards, including the top Honor Award, from the North Dakota Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The awards were presented at the annual AIA North Dakota Awards Conference in Grand Forks “for distinguished accomplishments in design and the profession of architecture.” JLG holds over 50 AIA North Dakota design awards, and a JLG project has received the Honor Award for the past three years in a row.
First International Bank & Trust Rugby, ND – Merit Award Kensington Rune Stone Visitor Center Kensington, MN – Honor Award
Marco announced that it has purchased ETC ComputerLand, a business IT services company headquartered in Quincy, Illinois. Locals of Fargo have voted, and a winner has been chosen. The 2018/2019 award for “Best Siding Contractor” in Fargo from LocalsLoveUs.com goes to Western Products! LocalsLoveUs.com chooses winners based on compiled votes from locals, collected over the year. The website encourages locals to vote for businesses they’ve had great experiences with and want to support.
EAPC announced that their marketing submission for “Special Events” category received the People’s Choice award at the recent Zweig Group Hot Firm + A/E Awards Conference in Dallas. EAPC also received a Marketing Excellence award in the “Internal Marketing” category for their new Intranet site. Thanks to a partnership with North Dakota State University College of Health Professions, Family HealthCare opened an additional pharmacy at their south Fargo clinic. Patients will now be able to receive their medication there, or at the downtown clinic, regardless which clinic they receive their care.
Want to see your news here? Email your announcement to thebridge@fmwfchamber.com. For info and rules, visit fmwfchamber.com/member_news.
LEARN SMARTER. EARN FASTER. College Classes ■ Workforce Training ■ Facility Rental NDSCS.EDU/FARGO
1305 19th Ave. N. • 701-231-6900
FARGO FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 27
MEMBERS NEWS: PEOPLE Absolute Marketing Group
David Erickson, Client Relations Intern Emma Garton, Client Relations Intern Dustin Gire, Digital Designer
Beyond Realty
Steve Olson, REALTOR®
Absolute Marketing Group
ERICKSON
GARTON
GIRE
OLSON
METZGER
DAWSON
David Erickson, Client Relations Intern Emma Garton, Client Relations Intern Dustin Gire, Digital Designer
Beyond Realty
Steve Olson, REALTOR®
Beyond Shelter, Inc.
Randy Bach, Asset Management Director Lisa Rotvold, Development Director
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Bodyworks Physical Therapy and Bliss Massage Therapy Sara Metzger, Physical Therapist
Border States Electric
Kelly Dawson, Senior Vice President HR
Capital Credit Union
Vance Reinbold, Chief Executive Officer
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VENKATSAMMY
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Dawson Insurance
Justin Venkatsammy, Business Insurance Account Manager
Eide Bailly
Jean Luke Arel, Senior Associate Britta Boe, Senior Associate Alex DeConcini, Senior Associate Katie Frank, Senior Associate John Hagen, Senior Associate Dan Hume, Senior Associate Michael Smith, Senior Associate Lindsay Thompson, Senior Associate
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Family HealthCare
Jeff Goodrich, DDS Kali Luecke, PA-C Sue Korman, MSSW, LICSW Kinsey Nelson, MD Denise Rondeau, MD, FACOG Cheryl Ross, FNP-C Amanda Terveen, DDS (pictured on the next page)
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MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE Keller Williams Inspire Realty Kaia Ehrmantraut, Realtor Allie Lott, Realtor Mindy Rodke, Realtor Ashley Sornsin, Realtor
MBN Engineering TERVEEN
EHRMANTRAUT
LOTT
Joel Luing, Civil Engineer, EIT
RODKE
Moorhead Business Association
Sheri Larson, Executive Director
NorthStar Technology Group
Brandon Haggerty, Director of Security & Professional Services
Onsharp
SORNSIN
LUING
LARSON
Megan McInroy, Digital Marketing Specialis
HAGGERTY
Sanford Health
Andrew Mas Aoshima, M.D., Internal Medicine Hospitalist Timothy Beiswenger, M.D., Maternal Fetal Medicine Kristin Brandt, M.D., Anesthesiology Sepehr Hamidi, M.D., Pathology Brianna Leigh, M.D., Neonatology Dustin Leigh, M.D., Emergency Medicine McINROY
AOSHIMA
BEISWENGER
Severson, Wogsland & Liebl, PC
BRANDT
Tara Anderson, Personal Injury Attorney Adam Justinger, Criminal Attorney
Spotlight Media, Inc.
Jennifer McColm, Business Development Assistant Patrick J Thompson, Videographer
The Village Business Institute
Andrea Hanson, EAP Counselor HAMIDI
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Town & Country Credit Union
Amber Andersen, Internal Auditor Laura Bryson, Branch Manager, 32nd Avenue D. Michael Mulwani, Senior VP, Retail Market President Cody Schafer, Branch Manager, Eagle Run
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MEMBERS NEWS: PEOPLE Town & Country Credit Union (continued) Kirsten Solway, Assistant Branch Manager Tyler Ventzke, Assistant Branch Manager Matt Voltz, AVP Contact Center Manager
Wallwork Truck Center
Jon Krabbenhoft, Ford Truck Sales Representative
Western State Bank
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Dean Froslie, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications
Widmer Roel
Scott Fossum, Audit Supervisor, Agricultural Dept Jarrett Galbreath, Senior Accountant Rachel Myhre, HR Generalist
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Nick Woodard, CEO at United Savings Credit Union has been recognized by CUNA’s Credit Union Magazine as one of its 2018 Credit Union Rock Stars.
Teambuilding doesn’t have to stop just because of a little snow! On January 26, get your co-workers together to compete in one of the many outdoor events during Frostival. Build some elaborate cardboard sleds and race them downhill, or prep for the Olympics and test your curling skills—but use a team member as the rock instead in the brand-new human curling event. For more traditional sports, you can compile a team for kickball, snow golf, snow volleyball, or disc golf. Otherwise, pit your departments against each other in the Frosty Cup competitions, which includes flip cup, beanbag toss, dizzy hockey stick and hammerschlagen. You can see the full schedule of events at frostival.com.
KEEP YOUR DATA CLOSE
Co-locating your business’s technology equipment or transitioning to a cloud environment is a big move. But in terms of distance, it doesn’t have to be. DCN’s hardened data centers in Bismarck and Fargo are built to help keep your data safe and maximize uptime.
CO-LOCATION
CLOUD SERVICES
800-814-3333 www.DakotaCarrier.com Coleman Data Center, Bismarck Great Plains Data Center, Fargo
30 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
99.999% NETWORK UPTIME
24/7/365 SUPPORT
METRO IN THE NEWS
The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community continues to receive recognition nationwide for its high quality of life and standard of living. Here are just a few of the acknowledgements from recent months.
West Fargo makes 2018’s Best Small Cities in America List The City of West Fargo was recently named by WalletHub as the 10th best small town to live in America! WalletHub compared more than 1,200 U.S. cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 across 40 key indicators of livability.
Fargo makes fourth in list of best U.S. metros for its job market According to a report from CNBC in October 2018 that ranked Fargo the fourth best market for jobs: “The conventional wisdom is that the jobs boom has been better for coastal areas than in Midwestern and farm states. But a closer look at the data shows that's not the case at all. …The economic strength in the Midwest shows up in low jobless rates in dozens of other metro areas.”
#6 safest city for women in 2017 The website SecurityChoice.com recently did research to rank 2017’s safest cities for women, gathering data from 478 cities in five main categories to determine which areas are considered safest overall for women. Fargo landed in the #6 spot!
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Fargo Ranks as Best City to Live on a $55,000 Salary The average American family earns about $55,000 per year, according to five-year estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, but where does that salary provide a more comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle? In a new study, SmartAsset looked at metrics reflective of affordability and livability to uncover the best cities to live on a $55,000 salary, and Fargo ranks in the #1 spot. The article writes: “Fargo city scores in the top 15 in all of our economic metrics, making it a secure place to live and work. For the most part, residents in Fargo don’t have to worry about losing their jobs and falling into poverty. This city has an unemployment rate under 3%. Fargo also scores well in some livability metrics. For example, few cities offer residents better commute options than Fargo. The average commute here is under 15 minutes.”
FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 31
#PeopleFirst • Bettering the places we live. bankwithchoice.com • 888.894.1357 Member FDIC • Choice Bank is a division of CFG.
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
32 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
CELEBRATIONS: OCTOBER RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS
Aldevron Grand opening 3030 24th Avenue South Moorhead annecenter.org
Allstate Premier Insurance Grand opening 4040 42nd Street South Suite M, Fargo agents.allstate.com/kellyshipman-fargo-nd.html
Apex Physical Therapy & Wellness Center
Aspire Optical Co. of Fargo
10-year anniversary / expansion 1420 9th Street East, Suite 401 West Fargo apexptwellness.com
Grand opening 3265 45th Street South #104, Fargo aspireoptical.com
Busch Agricultural Resources, LLC 40-year anniversary of Budweiser malting facility 2101 26th Street South, Moorhead Suite 100 Fargo www.buschagbarley.com
Kvamme Travel Relocation 1500 30th Avenue South Moorhead traveltravelgroup.com
Drekker Brewing Company Grand opening of Brewhalla 1666 First Avenue North, Fargo drekkerbrewing.com
Metro by T Mobile Grand opening 3226 Highway 10 East, Moorhead metropcs.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 33
CELEBRATIONS: OCTOBER RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS
Moorhead Public Service
My Best Friend’s Closet
Expansion of Community Solar Gardens 2200 28th Street North, Moorhead mpsutility.com
Perfectly Beautiful Boutique
15-year anniversary 1617 32nd Avenue South Suite J, Fargo mybestfriendscloset.biz
RealCom Solutions
Grand opening 4302 13th Avenue South Suite 13, Fargo perfectlybeautifulboutique.org
Rural Minnesota CEP, Inc.
Relocation 102 Broadway North, Fargo realcomsolutions.com
Shoppes at BLU
50-year anniversary 715 11th Street North Suite 302, Moorhead rmcep.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. For more information or to schedule, contact Mickayla at 218.359.0517 or mthompson@fmwfchamber.com, or fill out the form at bit.ly/FMWFRCRequest. *One ribbon cutting per year per member
34 THE BRIDGE • DECEMBER 2018
Grand opening 3233 45th Street South, Fargo propertyresourcesgroup.com
Holiday Parties at
Delta Hotels by Marriott Fargo There’s still time to plan your 2018 holiday get together with us here at Delta Fargo! Enjoy flexible event spaces, creative catering options and award-winning service - sure to make your festivities merry and bright!
Since 1991
Contact us to learn more!
701.281.7164
Gift certificates for hotel & Urban 42 also available!
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 • 35
BRIDGE THE
Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Post Office Box 2443 Fargo, North Dakota 58108-2443 fmwfchamber.com
For your business, insurance answers should come easy.
Whether you’re working at your agribusiness, commercial property or your customer’s kitchen table, the answers are right in front of you—and they come from a local professional. One who knows North Dakota and businesses like yours. Talk to your local Nodak Insurance agent.
nodakins.com