February Bridge by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL 21 Â· NO. 6

FEBRUARY 2018

Economic

Outlook Forum February 20, 2018

Community Builders

The Forum O F

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.

On the cover: Economic Outlook Forum event details

Contents

February 2018 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

State of the Cities: Highlights from the event

Nodak Insurance Company

Women Connect: What we learned from Robyn Benincasa

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

11 Events

14 Eggs & Issues

16 Business Training 17 Women Connect

21 FMWF Leadership

23 YPN

Member profile:

10 ChamberChoice Nomination

25 YEA!

26 New Members 27 Member News

30 Ribbon Cuttings

AD INDEX 26 Absolute Marketing Group 31 Boulger Funeral Home 30 Cass County Electric 31 Cole Papers, Inc 24 Consolidated Communications 22 Dabbert Custom Homes 27 Essentia Health 22 First International Bank & Trust 24 Holiday Inn Fargo 20 Indigo Signworks 14 J&M Printing 27 Knight Printing 27 McGough Construction 31 Minnesota State University Moorhead 27 NDSCS 24 Network Center, Inc. 20 Pro Resources 31 Sanford Health 20 Starion Bank 24 The Village Family Service Center

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

THE CHAMBER STAFF BOARD OF DIRECTORS Steve Swiontek Chair

Gate City Bank

Mark Nisbet Chair Elect

Xcel Energy

Tom Dawson Treasurer

Dawson Insurance

Judd Graham Immediate Past Chair Joanna Slominski Member at Large Beverley Adams Ann Christenson Shawn Dobberstein Kyle Dorow Mike Dragosavich Jodi Duncan Steve Halverson Jenni Huotari Peggy Kennedy Sandi Piatz Jeff Volk Craig Whitney

Bremer Bank

@FMWFPrez

Craig Whitney

@FMWFJim

Jim Parsons

Julie Doggett

President/CEO

VP of Finance/Operations

Information Systems Administrator

@FMWFDarren

@FMWFTyler

@FMWFAmanda

Tyler Fischbach

Amanda Hofland

@FMWFKatieM

@FMWFTracyM

Mortenson Construction Sanford Health TMI Hospitality Hector International Airport Essentia Health Spotlight Media Inc. Flint Group Heartland Trust Company Eide Bailly M State Microsoft Moore Engineering, Inc. The Chamber

@FMWFJulieD

Darren Dunlop

Business Development Manager

Multimedia Coordinator

Communications & Marketing Manager

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Nancy Johnson Agribusiness

Jeanna Yaggie

Ambassador Member Relations

Bryan McClean

Ambassador Public Relations

Gregory Wald

Business Training

ND Soybean Growers Association CableOne Farmers Insurance Group, McClean Family

REACH & Dress for Success of the RRV

Brian Shawn

Midco

Military Affairs

Tim Flakoll Public Affairs

Jenny Johnson

Young Professionals Network

Kristi Huber

Women Connect

Katie McPherson

Tracy Meckler

Graphics & Publications Coordinator

Membership & Advertising Sales Manager

@FMWFTracyP

@FMWFAlyssa

@FMWFKatieR

Moore Engineering, Inc.

Kristin Krile

Leadership FMWF

Katie Mastel

Public Affairs Intern

Tri-College University Spotlight Media United Way of Cass-Clay

Tracy Powell

Alyssa Ralston

Katie Ralston

Director of Events & Programs

Professional Development Coordinator

Membership Services Manager

@FMWFBobbiJo

@FMWFMickayla

@FMWFJulieY

Bobbi Rehder

Mickayla Thompson

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.

4 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

Events Coordinator

Member Relations Coordinator

Julie Yourczek

Office Administrator

a note

FROM THE

PRESIDENT Thank You, All Around

Every year around this time, it’s hard not to experience gratitude. We’ve just wrapped a joyous holiday season and closed the books on 2017. We’ve just hosted another sellout State of the Cities to kick off 2018 (find the full recap inside!). But perhaps most excitedly, Operation Thank You was another great success. Our dedicated ambassadors are one of the reasons we do what we do. This group of people rallies together for the support of our member businesses and show such pride in their chamber. I felt their spirit and couldn’t help but smile when I saw them arriving this past month to help unpack boxes, stuff packets, set out in their cars and deliver membership materials. The same week that we hosted Operation Thank You, I sat in on the first of three initial group meetings for a taskforce initiative that is kicking off around here. I can’t tell you much yet, but I am hopeful and excited for what this group of members and business leaders are setting out to accomplish. We will be convening to address several of our community’s biggest issues. As you’re reading this, we’re finalizing an action plan that will be unveiled soon. I hope you stay tuned!

As I look ahead, there is much more to get excited for in the coming months. The Economic Outlook Forum is once again approaching, and we’re excited to welcome back national economist Stephen Moore. Nominations have been collected and applications have opened for the 2018 ChamberChoice Awards. The YPN is busy planning and prepping for the Corporate Cup. Our staff is planning even more programming, events and activities to serve you better. Even as I type this, Frostival is just days away, and will just be over by the time you read this. I have no doubt that our friends at the CVB have hosted another spectacular winter event. As we come into the spring, we’ll be hosting several special events to help prepare for the area’s and state elections, and we will remain engaged in our public policy and advocacy initiatives. Thank you, once again, to all that support us through this work. Here’s to a great 2018!

Craig Whitney President / CEO The Chamber

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 5

The Chamber is proud to introduce three new Community Builders in our Premier Partner program. These companies have made a commitment to the area by investing in our programs and events. Their inclusion in the Premier Partner program entitles them to specific benefits. You can find all Community Builders in each issue of The Bridge.

Welcome to our newest

Community Builders!

McGough Construction Co., LLC McGough is a premier construction firm with full-service real estate capabilities and offices throughout the Upper Midwest. Specialties include health care, education, office, industrial, civic, science, cultural, and worship space construction.

Minnesota State Community and Technical College The Moorhead campus of Minnesota State Community and Technical College serves as the comprehensive community college for Fargo Moorhead. It offers both liberal arts/transfer and technical programs. Over 40 programs are available in various technical fields, including allied health, business, computer and information technology, construction and transportation.

Scheels SCHEELS is a 27-store operation with stores in 12 states including North Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Nevada, Utah, Colorado and Kansas. Providing SCHEELS’ customers with first-class customer service and the world’s largest selection of sports, sportswear and footwear are the priorities throughout the organization. SCHEELS is an employee-owned, privately held business that owes its consistent success to its empowered associates, leaders and partners who think and make decisions for their individual stores and the entire company.

Premier Partners

Making a Difference in Our Metro The Chamber draws on the diverse strengths and expertise of more than 2,100 public, private and non-profit member firms to advocate for a pro-business environment, educate the professional community and engage members in the pursuit of a prosperous region. Premier Partners are an elite group of businesses that recognize the importance of economic development efforts and make a significant commitment to the health of the region. Premier Partners give above and beyond their initial Chamber dues investment through sponsorship and marketing dollars to support the work we do.

Community Builders

Business Builders

In return for this increased support, Premier Partners receive a unique set of privileges and benefits that enhance their business. From increased exposure to heightened networking, Premier Partners gain access to an extensive network of businesses and professionals. Through partnership with The Chamber and their fellow members, Premier Partners make a positive difference for our metro.

For More Information 6 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

If you have any questions on becoming a Premier Partner, contact Darren Dunlop at 218.359.0514 or email ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com.

Economic Outlook Forum Tuesday, February 20, 2018

#EOF18

Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Don’t miss national economist Stephen Moore at this year’s Economic Outlook Forum who will deliver an engaging and thoughtful keynote address. Starion Bank’s Scott Green will also present on the results of the economic survey for a look at our local outlook and trends. REGISTRATION (includes lunch) Chamber members: $35 in advance | $40 at the door Non-members: $45 in advance | $50 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

MOORE

Presenting Sponsor

Business Outlook Survey Sponsors

Executive Sponsors

Production Sponsor

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 7

State of the Cities On a stormy winter morning, over 600 people gathered at the Holiday Inn for an update on our metro cities from four local mayors at the 2018 State of the Cities. The mood was once again positive, and we celebrated themes of growth and prosperity. Joel Heitkamp, KFGO, and Mark Nisbet, Xcel Energy, served as emcees.

Chad Olson

Dilworth

Del Rae Williams Moorhead

In our easternmost city, mayor Olson lamented the closing of their local Dairy Queen, but noted the silver lining in the opening of Kool Kone. Casey’s is expanding, and is even in talks of buying the city hall. “In 2018, we have to have a larger look to how we effectively use space and maximize tax dollars,” he said. It’s big news that some industry giants like BNSF and ALDI are investing in building in the town. Looking at housing in Dilworth, mayor Olson noted that an outside company will build approximately 20 lots in the Summerwood 3rd addition and an extension to the East was approved to build a Keystone development. These will provide a nearly a 100-acre property.

In Moorhead, we heard about population growth to near 45,000, and the building of 640 new single family homes and 964 new multi-family apartments. The schools grew as well, with the new Dorothy Dodds opening, as well as West campus for Horizon Middle School, and expansions on the college campuses. Moorhead is also proud to boast about its new diverging diamond interchange on 8th Street and I-94. We now look ahead to the railroad grade separation. The city debuted a new recycling program, and an upcoming materials recovery facility in Clay County will save on recycling transportation costs. A new law enforcement center coming soon will also increase efficiency, safety and effectiveness of police efforts.

Mayor Mahoney used four key words to describe the city of Fargo: innovative, responsive, efficient and strategic. In 2017, Fargo signed wastewater agreements with West Fargo and Horace.

Tim Mahoney

Fargo

Rich Mattern West Fargo

We’ll also be seeing work to improve the landfills, and single-sort recycling program is now in motion. On the roads, the 32nd Avenue corridor project was completed last year with the NDDOT. In 2018, we’ll see work on improving University Drive, 10th Street North, Roberts, Fourth Street South and 13th Avenue. The new city hall is expected to be completed in 2018, and the F-M Diversion remains a top priority for the city. In our westernmost update, the city of West Fargo now boasts a population of 35,000, with 9,000 people coming into town for work. Mayor Mattern mentioned various infrastructure improvement projects, including the major Sheyenne Street reconstruction and the partnership with Fargo for sewage treatment. The city is also seeing major growth in its schools. The 13th elementary school opened last year. A 14th is being built now, and a 15th is planned. Veteran’s Blvd continues its development, and Sheyenne Plaza was completed. More developments are providing infill growth. Plans for Lights at Sheyenne 32 were unveiled for even more mixed-use buildings. A West Fargo Convention Center at the fairgrounds is another major project coming soon.

Live Poll Results We conducted two live polls to engage the audience at the event. On question 1, we asked which community issue you thought was most important right now. With 37% of the vote, the top answer was once again workforce, followed by permanent flood protection. In question 2, we asked if you think the cities should continue to take advantage of business tax incentive programs. 70% of you said YES. 8 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

OPERATION

SPONSORED BY:

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 11

If you follow NDSU Bison football, you’ve probably noticed one local company consistently in support as a major sponsor of the region’s favorite team. And we’re sure you saw them splashed on our own materials as we promoted Voices of Vision with Shaquille O’Neal this past fall. But their support for their community goes far beyond sports.

12 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

You can trust that Nodak Insurance Company has North Dakota’s insurance needs covered. In fact, the company is

recognized as one of the top 50 property/casualty companies in the nation by The Ward Group. They are also an A (Excellent) rated company from A.M. Best. They want you to know that they’re not just agents. They’re your friends and neighbors. And more importantly, they’re agents with answers. The company’s roots go back to the 1940s, when a group of farmers and ranchers got together to insure their buildings and livestock in response to a need from the North Dakota Farm Bureau. It

MEMBER PROFILE began as a mutual insurance company and over time, grew to cover auto, home, farm and ranch, and commercial needs. After a few acquisitions and affiliations that allowed them to diversify and spread, the business today is wellequipped to handle all your insurance needs. Nodak’s agents are multi-line. But one of the best things about working with a Nodak agent is that they’re not just there to sell a policy. They are also knowledgeable, and encourage all clients to use them as a resource for questions and information. Nodak takes pride in their home state seriously. Fargo serves as their home office, and overall they have 135 employees across all companies, as well as over 70 agents and over 60 locations in North Dakota. Another plus, according to Jim Alexander, president and CEO, is that Nodak offers consistency.

So what can you expect from Nodak Insurance Company next? It’s all about continued growth and expansion of their offerings and a focus on increasing shareholder value. A change from being a mutual to a stock insurance company last year allowed them to raise more capital to do this. You may think of insurance as a slow-to-change industry, but Nodak has evolved and changed with the times. From the use of technology to improve the customer experience, to use of big data, and cyber protection for customer’s data, and simple web portals to cut down on paper. “You have to look for ways to provide outstanding service and never settle,” Alexander stated. “We work every day to get better, and we’re excited for the future.”

Mission To meet the lifetime financial needs of our North Dakota Farm Bureau member clients by providing competitive products and superior service. Vision To be North Dakota’s choice as the single source for its insurance and financial needs. Values • Customer-Driven • Quality-Focused • Strive for Excellence • Success through Teamwork

Not only has the company been named to The Ward’s 50 for five of the past six years, but many of the business’ senior management have been on board since 2005. Alexander credits the Nodak employees as a key to their success. There’s something about the people in North Dakota,” he said. “You see hard-working and loyal employees who want to make this a career, and that makes us unique.”

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 13

EGGS & ISSUES

#FMWFEggs

A Look at Area K-12 Education: Eggs & Issues Recap All of the metro’s schools are seeing major growth. From new buildings to expansions and bonds, there’s no doubt that the metro is booming, and an influx of young minds will soon be entering the workforce. To prepare for this, we sat down with three superintendents for an update on our major K-12 systems.

Dr. Jeffrey Schatz, Fargo Public Schools, shared that they’re seeing growth of about 100 to 150 students a year and have engaged in building projects to set the table for the future, including Eagles and Ed Clapp Elementaries. And they’re collaborating with others in the region, such as the career academy, to address area workforce needs. Brandon Lunak, interim superintendent, Moorhead Area Public Schools, told us that they are the largest employer in Moorhead. With almost 7,000 students and 1,000 employees, they’ve worked to secure all school entrances, add classroom and learning spaces, and build and renovate facilities.

Dr. David Flowers, West Fargo Public Schools, shared that two bond referendums have helped address their rapid growth, but still the district’s actual enrollment continues to be above projections. Two taskforces have been established to tackle this and will recommend boundary changes and solutions for crowding at schools.

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EGGS & ISSUES

Tuesday, February 6 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Community Safety Update

Tuesday, March 6 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott

Tim Mahoney Mayor of Fargo

Dave Ebinger City of Moorhead

cityoffargo

cityofmoorhead

David Todd

Del Rae Williams Mayor of Moorhead

City of Fargo

fargopolice

DelRaeWilliams

You’ve heard talk of the F-M Diversion on the radio and read about it online; now, hear updates firsthand from the individuals most closely involved in the efforts. This largescale project has had ups and downs since talks of it first surfaced as a solution to permanent flood protection in the metro. From feasibility studies and funding setbacks to taskforces and permits, where does the project currently stand? At this event, we’ll be joined by the mayors of Fargo and Moorhead for an update. Both will have the latest scoop as outgoing and incoming chairs of the Diversion Authority, respectively. A panel of experts will also join us to share their perspectives into the past, present and future of our region’s flood protection.

Heith Janke City of West Fargo

westfargopolice

The topic of community safety is ever changing with new challenges presenting themselves daily. As the metro area is on the grow, safety continues to play a vital role in the conversation. Join us to hear the latest community safety update from Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo Police chiefs. These individuals will share information on some of the most pressing issues we face within our communities, and how we can work to combat them.

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.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 15

#FMWFEggs

The Lowdown on the Diversion

BUSINESS TRAINING

Uncovering Leadership Blind Spots

and Discovering the Pathway to Motivating Your Employees

Wednesday, February 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott

Tamara Anderson Team Performance Strategist Dale Carnegie of ND and MN DCNDMNtamara

We’ve all had great leaders who we have respected and wanted to do our best work for, and then we’ve had not-so-great leaders who lacked what it takes to motivate us to do our best. Here, we’ll gain a broad perspective on leadership characteristics that motivate people to do their best work and stay with their employer. Backed by groundbreaking research, participants will discover potential blind spots for how employees across cultures prioritize the importance of various leadership characteristics.

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.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Consolidated Communications | Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management Moore Engineering | Wanzek Construction, Inc. EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

16 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

HIGHLIGHTS from last month With examples and interactive discussion, Heather Ostrowski from Preference Employment Solutions walked our Business Training attendees through the employee value proposition process. From benefits to culture and everything in between, we learned how to create a dynamic and engaging work environment to help all team members thrive.

BUSINESS TRAINING

Please note: Please choose from one of these three training sessions, each held on March 14 at the Delta by Marriott in adjacent rooms. Each individual may only register for one session, but feel free to come in a group and split the trainings up.

Successfully Navigating Change

TROMBLEY

John E. Trombley Consulting & Training Manager The Village Business Institute

The dynamic organizations at which we work often change. How do we as individuals adjust and successfully handle those changes? At this training, we’ll consider the transition zones of change and walk you through where you are personally, as well as explore healthy ways to deal with change through RICE (Reality, Identify, Communicate and Engage).

@vbinews

How to Measure Your Marketing ROI

HONEYMAN

Tiffanie Honeyman Founder/CEO OpGo Marketing

OpGo’s team will share best practices for developing a measurable marketing plan at this training session. We’ll provide the steps needed to start measuring with manual tools (templates), some online resources and plenty of examples. Together, we’ll learn how to put value on every marketing dollar, add accountability to your marketing team and make future marketing decisions with confidence.

@ opgo_digital

Purpose & Philanthropy: Discovering Transformational Living through Giving

HOLDMAN

@Scottholdman

Scott Holdman Director

Impact Institute

Giving is good and has the power to both transform how we live and impact the world around us. We are spending a fortune trying to find happiness as a country and are coming up short, but there is hope and a role for each of us. You won’t want to miss this opportunity that will enrich your life and those around you. Join Scott Holdman as he lays out a path for finding meaning in a material world and how to positively impact yourself, your business and your community.

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. FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 17

#FMWFTraining

Wednesday, March 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Delta by Marriott

Robyn Benincasa

“Why Winners Win”

Last month at the Delta by Marriott, over 500 women had the privilege of hearing from national keynote speaker and the inspiring and engaging adventure racer Robyn Benincasa for a special anniversary celebration. Committee members Kristi Huber, United Way, and Carrie Carney, Eventide, welcomed attendees and played a video recapping the past year of Women Connect programming. When Robyn took the stage, she immediately engaged the crowd with her high energy, intriguing stories and relatable jokes. The presentation featured numerous video clips of her adventures around the world that illustrated her key takeaways, and there were countless inspirational quotes. Throughout the talk, Robyn shared the four essential elements that make winners win. 1. Courage The way you show courage is by finding a way to bring your best self even on your worst day, she said. “You don’t have to stop crying; you just have to keep walking.” 2. Luck “When I say luck, I mean the moment where opportunity meets preparation. Great winners are always scanning the horizon for opportunities.”

18 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

PRESENTING SPONSOR

3. Adversity management This refers to the ability to adapt and respond to change. “It’s not about the setback; it’s about the comeback. … Do the best you can with what you’ve got.” 4. We-thinking vs. me-thinking Learn to work with a team. If your goal can be accomplished alone, it’s too small. “Being a winner isn’t about a particular outcome. It’s about who you are and what you do.” All attendees were also treated to cute desserts from the Delta, takehome inspiration coasters, and a challenge from Robyn herself: Set one huge personal goal to achieve in the next 60 days and tell two people about it. Here are a few esponses from attendees in the survey.

“I was so inspired by Robyn. She had a strong message yet was relatable enough to make me believe it was achievable.” “She was AMAZING!!!!! and INSPIRING!!!”

WOMEN CONNECT Finding Your Voice in the World

Tuesday, March 27

3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton

Laetitia Mizero Hellerud Founder/Owner

Erin Prochnow

UBUNTU Consulting

CEO

dearlaetitia

YWCA Cass Clay

Life comes in cycles with ups and downs, highs and lows. Our life experiences affect how we carry ourselves and interact with others. How do you make the decision to carry on and put your best foot forward after encountering challenges? The response is in your hands. After all, the only thing we can control is ourselves. Author Laetitia Mizero Hellerud will share her life journey and how she overcame adversity. From learning to adapt in new countries multiple times as her family fled her native war-torn country of Burundi to reclaiming herself after a painful divorce, losing her employment and more. She will candidly talk about finding her voice in the midst of chaos and life’s hardships.

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In this fast-paced world, there is limited time for uncertainty and ambiguity. We need to say what we think to get what we want. Being assertive can be a win-win. Women need to use their strengths and wisdom to dictate their future. Learn and practice prioritizing what’s really important to you at this session. Participants will learn what it means to be assertive, tips for how to be assertive, why it is important, things to avoid while earning the respect of others and how to use the ever-important two letter word: No.

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

HIGHLIGHTS from last month Heather Ostrowski from Preference Employment Solutions stepped up as our December Women Connect speaker. Talking about various stages of life, attendees learned the corresponding “shoe” and reflected on each of our journeys.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 19

#FMWFWC

Tuesday, February 27

Be Original, Brave & Bold: Assertiveness that Works

Starion Bank proudly supports

2018 ECONOMIC

OUTLOOK FORUM

Tuesday, February 20 | Noon–1:30 p.m. Delta by Marriott, Fargo Join Starion Bank market president Scott Green as he presents the survey results on local business trends. Results will also be available on

starionbank.com.

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CELEBRATING

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Since 1991

20 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

LEADERSHIP Meeting with

Throughout this year’s Leadership class, we have focused on the different sectors of the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo business community. January’s session shifted focus onto community development. Understanding where we are at as a community now, and where we are growing, is important for both our class participants as leaders in their organizations and as employees in this metro. The class started the day at the State of the Cities event. Immediately following, they had a one-on-one meeting with the mayors to ask questions on leadership and more in-depth questions about our community. After we wrapped up our time at the Holiday Inn, we traveled to the Moorhead Center Mall for the second part of our class. We started the afternoon with Steve Stark and one of his Illustrated History presentations, learning about the history of the Red River Valley and the founding of the Fargo and Moorhead communities. Following Stark’s presentation, the class transferred to the Moorhead City Council Chamber’s for a Metro Area Economic Development Panel. A special thank you goes to Cindy Graffeo, Moorhead Economic Development Authority; Matt Marshall, West Fargo Economic Development; Mark Vaux, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation; and Mike

Allmendinger, Kilbourne Group, for sharing their knowledge with the class.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 21

#FMWFLEADERSHIP

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Give us a call today.

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22 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

VISIT US AT THE HOME & GARDEN SHOW

FEBRUARY 23-25, 2018

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK Looking ahead

The Young Professionals Network is currently seeking

Networking to Business: Know Your Benefits

applications for the second One to Watch of 2018! Recipients of this award will be featured in our monthly

Coming this March

Bridge newsletter, on our social media outlets, will be

Sure, earning a paycheck from your employer

featured in Fargo INC! magazine, will receive a letter

is pretty great, but that’s not the only “perk”

from Craig Whitney, a plaque and a complimentary ticket

of employment! Every business offers a

to a Business Training, Women Connect or Business

unique set of benefit options. Join the YPN

After Hours event.

for a special panel discussion all about

Nominate a deserving young professional at bit.ly/FMWFOTW.

employment benefits. Experts from various areas of benefits will be present to share everything you need to know about HSAs, FSAs, EAPs, cafeteria benefits, retirement

Save the date for Corporate Cup!

Corporate Cup registration opens Monday, February 5

plans and more. Stay tuned for more details coming soon!

at 10 a.m. And, save the date for the 2018 Corporate Cup on May 24, 2018 at MSUM.

Off the Clock

Wednesday, February 21 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Urban 42, 1635 42nd St S. Fargo Come enjoy one of Fargo’s newest restaurants located inside the Delta by Marriott. Enjoy food and drinks

Questions? Contact Alyssa Ralston at aralston@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0529 or visit fmwfchamber.com/ypn.

HIGHLIGHTS from last month

Thanks to all that came to January’s Off the Clock at the Speak Easy in Moorhead!

inspired from around the globe and made with locally sourced ingredients! Special this month, Urban 42 will be providing a free drink ticket to everyone that signs in at the event. Be sure to stop the registration table before taking advantage of this month’s free apps, free drink and free networking!

New Member Social

Wednesday, February 21 | 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Urban 42, 1635 42nd Street South, Fargo Registration required New to YPN? Thinking about joining the YPN? Then

PROGRAM SPONSORS

this event is for you! Connect with new and current members, learn more about the program and how to get more involved. We will be doing a little speed networking, so don’t forget your business cards! Then stick around for our Off the Clock immediately following. FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 23

@FMWFYPN

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Guiding a successful business takes guts. So does changing service providers. Who can you trust to deliver the speed, agility, and reliability you need in a world plagued by security threats? For businesses today, the answer is Consolidated Communications. Data & Internet Voice Cloud Services Managed & Hosted Security

Call 701.356.6000 or visit consolidated.com

24 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

YEA!: YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY Meet the mentors

Below are the individuals who are volunteering their time and expertise to helping our YEA! class succeed. Adam Kusler, Implementation Specialists PRESENTING SPONSOR

Ben Keen, McNeilus Steel Betty Gronneberg, uCodeGirl Blayne Magfradeu, Scheels Brianne Hoffman, Doosan Bobcat Gregory Wald, Moore Engineering Jack Yakowicz, Office Sign Company

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Josh Christy, Codelation Kim Hoeschen, Xcel Energy Kristi Ulrich, Face It Together Luke McShane, Fargo Parks Nate Mickelberg, Spotlight Media Sam Gust, Hospice of the Red River Valley Sara Hanstad, Wells Fargo Tiffanie Honeyman, OpGo Marketing

Bremer Bank | Concordia College Dawson Insurance | Delta by Marriott Eide Bailly | Intercept EFT LaQuinta Inns & Suites Minnesota State University Moorhead North Dakota State University Radio FM Media | Starion Bank TrueNorth Steel

In addition to all of our mentors, we’ve also brought two new instructors into the mix! We’re excited to have Jeff Thomas from Cornerstone Bank and Andrew Abernathey from Ritaway Investment Group working with our class during the second segment of the program. Thank you ALL for the commitment you have made to our students! You play a tremendous role in their overall experience in this program. FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 25

@FMWFYEA

One element that really sets YEA! apart from other youth programs is the mentorship we provide to our students. Each student or team is paired with a mentor who works alongside them as they complete their business plan and prepare for their Investor Panel Shark Tank presentation. Without our mentors, our students couldn’t accomplish their goals within this program.

NEW MEMBERS

We welcome the following businesses who have invested by joining The Chamber.

The Arthur Companies

arthurcompanies.com Agriculture Products The Arthur Companies operates agribusinesses including grain elevators, a birdseed company and a fertilizer company. Their mission is to enable their customers to prosper by providing superior products, services and markets while benefiting the communities they serve and safeguarding their environment.

techonemsp.com Dental Specialists TechOne Technology Solutions is the Red River Valley’s preferred choice for dental technology integration. From service to sales‑trust, their team finds a solution to fit your practice’s needs.

Unity Mortgage

Children of Hope Childcare LLC

cohchildcare.com Child Care Children of Hope Childcare focuses on family and children. They strive to provide exceptional care to children, while bringing together the diversity of the area in the families they serve.

Five Star Storage

TechOne Technology Solutions Inc

fivestarstorage.biz Storage - Self Five Star Storage provides their communities with viable residential and commercial storage solutions by taking the selfstorage experience to the next level with modern amenities and exceptional service their customers have come to expect.

unitymortgage.com Mortgages Unity Mortgage provides financial institutions the opportunity to expand their borrowers’ home financing options by offering a full menu of competitively priced residential mortgage products and services. Unity Mortgage provides a variety of loan programs for all income levels.

West 13th Salon

west13thsalon.com Beauty Salons & Barbers West 13th Salon is fully committed to delivering exceptional hair, massage and spa services. Their team of highly educated professional artists, invest time into building lifelong relationships with each and every guest.

We encourage all members to conduct business with each other. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber! Want to find all our members? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com.

WE SEE THE

BIG PIXEL Websites By Absolute

Online Video That Captures Your Vision

CreativeThatClicks.com 26 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES

North Dakota State College of Science TRAINND | APPRENTICESHIPND | SKILLSND

NDSCS.EDU/TRAINING

Dress for Success Red River Valley was awarded affiliate of the year, the highest honor given to an affiliate from Dress for Success Worldwide. Of affiliates spanning 150 cities and 28 countries, this award was given due to the organization’s growth in women served, funds raised and volunteer commitment.

Walk-In Work Injury Care West Fargo Clinic Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:00pm 701.364.5757

McGough is a proud sponsor of the State of the Cities in support of the FMWF Chamber.

Learn how we can help you build your future! www.mcgough.com

Four-Color Printing Specialized Coatings Foil & Embossing Die Cutting

This past summer, Courts Plus Community Fitness started Fargo’s first United States Tennis Association (USTA) one doubles 4.5 men’s league. Each team consisted of two to four players at the 4.5 USTA rating level. The team first won the local Courts Plus Community Fitness league this summer to qualify for sectionals. Team players are Oliver Summer, David Youngs and Adam Gustad. Recently, the team won sectionals. The team will now represent the Northern Section at Nationals in Indian Wells, California in March. Courts Plus Community Fitness Tennis leagues, including the summer USTA league, are open to anyone wanting to play.

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

Fargo, ND 58103 USA ph: 701.235.1121 knightprinting.com

The City of Fargo has been named the winner of the Georgetown University Energy Prize (GUEP), a twoyear, nationwide competition that brought together 50 communities in rethinking the way America’s small-to medium-sized towns, cities and counties use energy. Over a two-year period, Fargo reduced overall energy consumption by over 172 million BTUs, to earn a ranking of fourth among the 50 semifinalists’ overall energy scores. In the final round, 10 top-performing cities and counties were evaluated by a panel of judges representing academia and industry. The 10 finalist communities were scored in weighted categories, including innovation, potential for replication, likely future performance, equitable access, community and stakeholder engagement, education and overall quality and success. Fargo was selected as the winner based on a combination of energy performance scores and the creation and advancement of new best practices over the course of the two-year energy-saving period. Fargo developed efargo, a community partnership that mobilized efforts through a dedicated web portal. FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 27

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE The following individuals have been hired or promoted. Please help us welcome each of them in their new roles!

Aldevron

Marina Ariño Martin, Quality Control Analyst Lindsay Bogardus, Quality Assurance Analyst Lyndsay Bye, Quality Control Receiving Inspector Caitlin Halter, Client Relations Coordinator Jeff Himle, Document Specialist Gwen Thomas, Quality Systems Manager Shelli Turner, Quality Control Analyst

ARIÑO MARTIN

BOGARDUS

BYE

HALTER

HIMLE

THOMAS

TURNER

BJORKLUND

Appareo

Chrissy Bjorklund, Test Engineer

Bell Bank

Rock Messerschmidt, SVP/Regional Sales Director Mike Wagner, Personal Banking Officer Mark Wallace, VP/Ag Commercial Lender Joe Watzke, President, Moorhead branch

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties

MESSERSCHMIDT

WAGNER

WALLACE

WATZKE

BOUSHEY

STAFFORD

WAVRA

FEVIG

STEVAHN

WILLIAMS

ARVIDSON

AL SAUDI

Heidi Boushey, Real Estate Agent

Choice Financial

Kristy Estad, Frontline Customer Service Representative (no photo)

Dabbert Custom Homes

Tammi Stafford, Project Assistant Lynette Wavra, Marketing Coordinator

Essentia Health

Mariah Fevig, Nurse Practitioner Amy Stevahn, Nurse Practitioner Dr. Elisa Williams, Anesthesiologist

Express Employment Professionals Mack Arvidson, Staffing Consultant

Network Center, Inc.

Mohaymen Al Saudi, Network Systems Analysts Paul Dahlen, Network Infrastructure Team Lead Nadja Finch, Sales Operations Assistant Dustin Kremer, Support Team Lead Matt Painter, Network Systems Analysts

DAHLEN 28 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

FINCH

KREMER

PAINTER

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE North Dakota Army National Guard

LIEN

Command Sgt. Maj. David Lien, StateCommand Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Officer 4 Kiel Skager, Command Chief Warrant Officer

North Dakota Safety Council

SKAGER

KADRMAS

Miranda Kadrmas, Traffic Safety Coordinator Lindsey Narloch, Information Manager

NARLOCH

Park Co. Realtors

Tracy Griffis, REALTOR®

Pro Resources

Kriss Burns, Business Consultant

The RLE Group GRIFFIS

BURNS

MARCHAND

Micah Marchand, Graphic Designer Heather Olivieri, Project Manager

OLIVIERI

Reach Partners

Sean Kelly, Project Manager

Sanford Health

KELLY

FANAI

GRINDEL

Sarah Fanai, D.O., Internal Medicine Scott Grindel, M.D., Sports Medicine Gautam Sachdeva, M.D., Neurology Ellen Vogels, D.O., Bariatric and General Surgery Harry Weiser, M.D., Neurosurgery Alex White, M.D., Orthopedic Trauma

SACHDEVA

Smart Business Solutions

Jordan Houselog, Administrative Assistant

Starion Bank VOGELS

WEISER

WHITE

Tom Boyer, Mortgage Banking Manager, Vice President

HOUSELOG

Ulteig

Jeremy Alinder, Vice President of Finance

Western State Bank

Cindy Byklum, Mortgage Loan Officer

YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties

BOYER

ENKERS

ALINDER

ENGELTER

BYKLUM

KELLERMAN

MARCIL

Karen Engelter, Financial Development Coordinator Tessa Enkers, School Age Coordinator – Freedom Ely Mercil, VP of Buildings & Grounds Ali Kellerman, Youth & Adult Program Coordinator Dana Sell, Early Learning Center Site Director – South

SELL FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 29

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

Other News

Carman Swenson, RN, of Bethany Retirement Living has received board certification in Gerontological Nursing. She is a nurse manager at Bethany on 42nd. Travis Koch, region manager for U.S. Bank Wealth Management, has taken the position of chair of the Downtown Community Partnership board of directors. Cole Wagner from Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI) earned his professional engineer registrations (PE) for Minnesota and North Dakota. Wagner serves out of HEI’s Fargo office specializing in transportation and hydraulic structures. Steve Dusek, president and CEO of Dakota Business Lending, previously Dakota CDC, has been re-elected to serve another two-year term on the National Association of Development Companies (NADCO) board as an at-large director.

KLJ announced that Brady Haussler, Mike Bittner, Brian Moser and Tim Olson earned professional engineering (PE) licenses in the states of North Dakota, Colorado, North Dakota, and Texas, respectively. Jessica Wagner earned her PE in two states, Montana and South Dakota. Two Noridian Insurance Services Inc. (NISI) employees have received long-term care certifications. NISI Sales Account Executives Maggy Pederson-Henderson and Christi Martel have both fulfilled the requirements for the certification.

Want to see your news here? Email your announcement to thebridge@fmwfchamber.com.

FOCUSED ON YOUR STREET. NOT WALL STREET.

Our members’ energy mix, consisting of more than 40 percent renewables, is produced right here in North Dakota. Cass County Electric Cooperative, local energy for local people.

Renewable. Reliable. Responsible.

30 THE BRIDGE · FEBRUARY 2018

W W W. K W H .C O M

CELEBRATIONS: December Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings

Northland Vapor, LLC

Mrs. Field’s Cookies New ownership celebration 3902 13th Avenue South, Fargo West Acres Mall mrsfields.com

Grand opening 115 Eighth Street South, Moorhead northlandvapor.com

Salt2o Float Spa Grand opening 3285 Fiechtner Drive S., Suite A, Fargo salt2ospa.com THINK HEART. THINK US.

Get ahead of heart disease 033000-00219 1/18

FEBRUARY IS HEART MONTH

MSU Moorhead Graduate Programs Nationally accredited, flexible, personal & affordable Learn more at mnstate.edu/graduate

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 31

BRIDGE THE

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

Together,

We Can Do More. The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce fmwfchamber.com