May Bridge by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

Special Event:

Frank Abagnale A Fraud Seminar

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.

Contents

On the cover: Frank Abagnale’s special fraud seminar

May 2018

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

YEA!

Recap of the Investor Panel event

Member Profile: Maxwells

Leadership Community change initiatives unveiled

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

11 Member Spotlight 15 Eggs & Issues

17 Business Training 19 Women Connect 27 YPN

30 New Members 31 Member News

35 Ribbon Cuttings

AD INDEX

16 28 26 26 18 25 10 9 24 26 9 26 26 18 26 14 31 16 16 29 31 29

Arvig Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND Boulger Funeral Home Cole Papers, Inc. Cornerstone Bank Dabbert Custom Homes Eide Bailly Essentia Health First International Bank & Trust FM Area Foundation Heritage Homes Holiday Inn Fargo Indigo Signworks J&M Printing Knight Printing Midco Business Solutions Network Center, Inc. Prairie St. John’s Pro Resources Starion Bank Time Communications Video Arts 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 Huggett

@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 Policy

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 Policy 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 · MAY 2018

Events Coordinator

Member Relations Coordinator

Julie Yourczek

Office Administrator

a note FROM THE

PRESIDENT A look at the upcoming races

Once again, another election season is upon us. Some interesting races are in order for North Dakota’s national congressional delegation in the Senate and House. Locally, we are gearing up to host a series of debates for both the local and statewide races. As election dates approach, we’ll highlight and engage with legislative and city races for both Cass and Clay counties. As June 12 approaches, we will kick off our debates beginning with the Fargo City Commission, where nine candidates are vying for two open seats. As election rules haven’t undergone a change to institute run off voting, it is likely that the two elected will win with a small percentage of votes. As for Fargo mayor, there is only one candidate, incumbent Tim Mahoney. In West Fargo, there will be a contested race between current Mayor Rich Mattern and challenger Bernie Dardis. Mattern is seeking his fifth term after retiring from the North Dakota State University Extension Office in 2015. Dardis is former CEO of Indigo Signworks, an active Chamber member, longtime businessman and resident of West Fargo.

As election season rolls around, we look forward to hosting debates in order to help our members learn about the candidates, encourage them to vote and provide information to make informed decisions. The Chamber continues to work hard to get involved in public policy issues. We advocate for our members through lobbying and engaging in discussion with policymakers and stakeholders. We emphasize education through questionnaires for candidates, debates and forums. The final leg of public policy is political action, where we grade elected officials and endorse candidates. However, we don’t currently partake in those activities. We are currently working on finalizing dates and locations for the aforementioned upcoming debates. Stay tuned for those details. We look forward to an exciting election cycle!

Craig Whitney President / CEO The Chamber

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 5

EVENTS

Wednesday, June 27

MILITARY APPRECIATION Night at the RedHawks Tickets are $10, which include entry to the game and $3 in Hawks Bucks. The Chamber will have a reserved section.

SPONSOR A FAMILY

Last year, more than 800 members of our military community were guests of honor at the event. Help thank another family for their service through a VIP experience at this year’s event. Five sponsorship levels are available. Contact The Chamber at 218.233.1100.

Grand Slam Sponsors

6 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

Join us for a special Chamber event!

Stealing Your Life: A Fraud Seminar with Frank Abagnale

Tuesday, July 24 | 3 to 5 p.m. Delta by Marriott Author, lecturer and consultant, Frank Abagnale is one of the world’s most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement and secure documents. You probably know his story from the acclaimed movie Catch Me If You Can. Now, see him in Fargo! Abagnale will provide the latest information to protect businesses and individuals from identity theft. His advice is invaluable. Chamber members: $30 | Non-members: $50 Register online at fmwfchamber.com.

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

GOLD SPONSOR:

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 7

To register, visit fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

Friday, May 11 Noon to 1:30 p.m. Delta by Marriott

Join us for another exciting ChamberChoice Awards luncheon as we celebrate the achievements of our business community and name this year’s winners. Make sure to vote for the People’s Choice Award through May 4.

Small Not-for-Profit Sponsors

Not-for-Profit Sponsors

YP Best Place to Work Sponsors

Business of the Year Sponsors

People’s Choice Sponsors

Corporate Table Sponsors

True IT Smal Business of the Year Sponsors

Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsors

Event Production Sponsor 8 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

Presenting Sponsors

Alerus Bell Bank Bethany Retirement Living Border States Electric Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc. Choice Financial Consolidated Communications Cornerstone Bank Dakota Carrier Network Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitors Bureau Fargo Public School District 1 First International Bank and Trust Fraser Ltd. Gate City Bank GOLDMARK Property Management Great Plains Food Bank Heartland Trust Company JLG Architects Legacy Children’s Foundation Luna Fargo Maxwells Microsoft Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead Minnesota State Community & Technical College Moore Engineering, Inc. Network Center, Inc. North Dakota State College of Science North Dakota State University Office Sign Company Rape and Abuse Crisis Center U.S. Bank Western State Bank

uting O f l o G e g r Challen FGolf

Chambe

#FMW

Wednesday, July 11 12:30 to 7:30 p.m. Edgewood Golf Course Hole and tee box sponsorships are still AVAILABLE. For more information, contact Darren at 218.359.0514 or ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com.

HH_May.indd 1

Leaderboard Sponsor

Proud to be North Dakota’s FIRST Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center.

4/9/18 1:51 PM

Valet Sponsor EssentiaHealth.org

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

#FMWFBAH

Social Superstar Congrats to Fargo Parks for winning the title of Social Superstar last month! See if you can be next month’s winner by posting to social media with hashtag #FMWFBAH.

We had a great time at April’s Business After Hours at the Delta by Marriott as warmer temperatures finally sprung. Thanks to Heritage Homes for sponsoring and to all that came out!

Sponsored by: FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 9

WE WANT

You...

... to speak at a Chamber event! Apply to be a presenter at either a Business Training or Women Connect session for The Chamber’s 2018-19 fiscal year.

What do our speakers get? • Exposure: A room full of engaged business professionals will hear your message. • Promotion: We’ll share your session and bio online, on social media and in print to thousands! • Credibility: Position yourself as a thought-leader in your area of expertise. Apply by May 31 at fmwfchamber.com. Questions? Contact Bobbi Jo at 218.359.0525 or brehder@fmwfchamber.com.

EIDE LIKE I’D LIKE TO BE INSPIRED

Brittany Dunn

Ryan Havick

Shane Husar

Travis VanDyke

Tax

Regulatory Insurance

Financial Institutions

Tax

10 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

Congratulations to our newest partners! We’re a team of collaborators and innovators at Eide Bailly, and our people and culture are the heart of our firm. We are proud to introduce our newest partners who live our culture, inspire our people and lead our firm.

What inspires you, inspires us. 701.239.8500 | eidebailly.com

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

The Fargo-Moorhead, ND Chapter #246 of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) was chartered in 1978. We are one of 122 chapters in the United States whose core purpose is to “enhance the success of women in construction” through our monthly education programs. Members support and encourage each other to grow and become leaders in their professional and personal careers. — Amy

Berg, CBT, CIT

2017-2018 Chapter President Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney presents a proclamation claiming March 4-10 as Women in Construction Week in the city of Fargo.

What makes your organization unique?

Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on?

NAWIC is unique in the fact that it is the only

Growing our membership through our monthly programs and sponsoring K-12 programs that promote the construction industry as a viable career choice.

organization that cuts across all facets of the diverse construction industry. Members are women employed in all levels and fields of the construction industry. We

What is one thing you most want others to know?

are architects, general contractors, subcontractors,

Since chartering, the Fargo-Moorhead, ND Chapter has presented scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,000 each year to students enrolled in a construction-related course at one of the many local colleges and universities.

material suppliers, engineers, construction news services, construction trade associations and those that provide support services for the construction industry.

What do you like most about being a Chamber member? Total employees: All volunteers Year founded: 1978 Office location: 657 2nd Ave N, Unit 763, Fargo Online: nawicfm246.org or NAWIC Fargo-Moorhead on Facebook

The many opportunities to share NAWIC with the community such as at Business After Hours and listing our events on the monthly event calendar. Want to see your business here? Tell us who you think deserves to be featured! Fill out the form at bit.ly/BridgeMS, or email ahuggett@fmwfchamber.com.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 11

YEA!: YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY

Last month, our Young

Entrepreneurs Academy students took to the stage to pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors and nearly 200 audience members during the Investor Panel Shark Tank.

their involvement and support of our academy. We also got to hear business updates from three YEA! graduates, Mukai Selekwa, Bridget

McManamon and Joanna Lin. These former YEA! students represent just a few success stories that have come out of our program. Adding to the excitement of the evening, audience members got to submit their votes for our first ever

These students have spent countless

People’s Choice award! Thanks to

hours working on their businesses,

the generous sponsorship of Office

and they impressed everyone with

Sign Company, our People’s Choice

their poise and confidence during

and Saunders Scholar award winners

their five-minute presentations. We

were given trophies and prize

are very proud of the 14 students

packages valued at over $250 each!

who made it to this point in the

Each package includes promotional

program!

materials such as mugs, t-shirts,

Once again, Dan Michaels kept

coasters and more, all with the

Brainy Ladies, on May 4.

winning students’ logos.

Thank you to our panel of investors! George Sinner, Cornerstone Bank; Kevin Christianson, PRG; Kim Meyer, GCB; Jennifer Quast Johnsrud, Microsoft; Dean Bresciani, NDSU; Brewer Doran, Concordia College Offutt School of Business; and Denise Gorsline, MSUM.

the show moving as our emcee, and we welcomed Jeff Thomas

Our event culminated with $7,500

from YEA!’s presenting sponsor,

being invested in our students’

Cornerstone Bank, lead instructor,

businesses; Oak Grove junior, Jack

Josh Teigen from Protosthetics, and Marsha Weber from our event’s

host site, MSUM to all speak about

Machacek, earning the People’s Choice award with his business Unprofessional, and Discovery

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Middle School seventh grader, Zoe Bundy, being named our 2018 Saunders Scholar! Zoe will advance to the YEA! Saunders Scholars National competition in Rochester, New York to pitch her business,

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD SPONSOR

Tyler Niemi

Red River Auto Marketing

Isabelle Chambers NerdSport

Jack Stoppleworth

Stoppleworth Defense

Amber Brekhus & Abril Arce

Ivy Mastrud

AllHere

LIFT

Hannah Slater

Paradox Archery

Derek Johs DEV

Books For Tommorow

Ameena Jovonovich Books For Tomorrow

Jake Monson & John van Litsenburg Simplistic Solutions

Raini Endicott

Big Picture Project

Brainy Ladies

2018 YEA! WINNER Zoe Bundy Brainy Ladies

Photos courtesy of J.Alan Paul Photography

Jack Machacek

Congrats to our winners!

Unprofessional

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 13

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EGGS & ISSUES

Tuesday, May 1 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Delta by Marriott (Note the change in location this month!)

The State of Local Child Care & Its Impact on Workforce Development Tuesday, June 5 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott

Tom Quaadman U.S. Chamber

HILL

QuaadmanT

Join us for a special event with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for a discussion on businesses ability to access capital and other financial tools needed to grow and sustain competitive operations. Tom Quaadman, executive vice president of the U.S. Chamber Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, will provide updates on efforts to modernize America’s financial regulatory structure and restore main street lending.

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.

PALMER

HUBER

PROCHNOW

THOEMKE

When business owners and employers hear the words “child care,” they most often think of the care, safety and education of young children. What we often don’t think about is the impact that child care has on our entire community, especially our workforce. Access to highquality and affordable child care is vital to the success and economic development of our business community. Join us to hear from collaborating industry leaders who will share research, current data and information on how strategic initiatives to improve access to quality child care elevates and helps businesses and employers meet workforce demands: Thomas Hill and Kristi Huber, United Way of Cass Clay; Pam Palmer, Bright & Early North Dakota; Erin Prochnow, YWCA Cass Clay; and Lorrie Thoemke, YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

In the coming months, The Chamber will be hosting a variety of debates for mayoral, city commission, city council, and legislative races across Moorhead, Fargo and West Fargo. This will be a great opportunity to hear from many candidates. Stay tuned for more details! FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 15

#FMWFEggs

Financing America’s Economic Growth

Mental Health in the Workplace

Prairie St. John’s knows that life can be overwhelming, and when you suffer from mental illness, it’s heightened. This can all lead to issues in the workplace: • Lost productivity • Low Morale • Increased PTO/Sick Time • Increase in healthcare expenses • Strained work environment We are here to support your employees and their families with mental health and substance use needs. Flexible programming with day and evening options is available. Call us at 701.476.7200 to learn more. Confidential assessments are available 24/7.

www.prairie-stjohns.com

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BUSINESS CONTINUITY WITH HOSTED PBX. 701.373.1001 arvigbusiness.com/hostedpbx ©Arvig 2018

16 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

Since 1991

BUSINESS TRAINING

Tuesday, May 8 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott

Teamwork in the Workplace: Tools to Keep the Peace

Thursday, June 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn

Jennifer Schillinger Founder & CEO Strengths Advantage strengthsjenn

Mentoring is often viewed as a nice to-do, but not necessary to the way we develop and manage our people. Research shows a growing percentage of the workforce is looking for a coach more than a supervisor, and is more interested in development than perks. Now more than ever, mentorship is becoming a vital way to attract, develop and retain talent. Learn the role of mentoring in the workplace, what makes for quality relationships and the implications of doing it poorly. Uncover the art and science of blending supervision and mentorship to get the results you want. Discover the different models of mentoring and figure out what could work best for you and your company.

Mike Henke Mike Henke Inc., Business Training & Consulting mikehenkeinc

#FMWFTraining

Mentoring: Why it Matters

Amidst a shifting culture in society, there is also a shift in the workplace. From generational and personality differences, to varying work styles, it’s important to keep all your key players pulling the rope in the same direction. At this special session of Business Training with national speaker Mike Henke, learn how to create a positive workplace environment and teamwork in all situations. We’ll talk about how to decrease stress and provide a culture that employees are looking for. You’ll walk away knowing how to identify and overcome challenges and leave with instant solutions.

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

April’s Business Training welcomed a panel of presenters who shared all about workplace wellness. Attendees learned how physical health and activity affects every aspect of our lives. Thanks to Pete Seljevold, Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND, Andrew Scott, Dakota Medical Foundation, and Karen Nitzkorski, PartnerSHIP 4 Health.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Consolidated Communications | Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management | Moore Engineering | Wanzek Construction, Inc. FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 17

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WOMEN CONNECT The Business Case for Women’s Leadership Programs

Tuesday, May 22

Tuesday, June 26

3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m.

DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center

3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m.

DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center

Amanda McKinnon

Jenni Huotari

Bodacious Brander & CEO

Director of Business Outsourcing & Strategy

MSPIRE BodaciousBrands

Eide Bailly LLP

“Wow, she’s so lucky! I could never do what she’s doing.” Have you ever said those things to yourself? Cut the crap! She’s not lucky. She’s confident. She’s got courage. Whether it’s a career change, launching a business, saying no to one more freaking volunteer request or yes to the one you’ve been waiting for, only you can cultivate the confidence that will take you where you want to go. Here, Amanda McKinnon will share her story on how she went from a bullied girl with a bad perm to a bodacious businesswoman with the courage to stand up for herself. Learn to unleash the confidence that resides within you and gain the courage to share it with the world.

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

The statistics are clear: Inclusive organizations outperform other organizations, and the impact of women leaders is essential to business success. Many organizations have invested in women’s leadership or empowerment programs. But what makes for a successful, sustainable program? And why should businesses care about implementing these initiatives? Jenni Huotari will talk about the case for such programs and how to implement them in your own organization. A panel will share tips and tricks for building a successful program that will empower and encourage the women in your workplace and make a lasting impact on your business. We’ll hear from Lisa Borgen, American Crystal Sugar Company; Camille Grade, Myriad Mobile; and Heather Silseth-Karels, John Deere Electronic Solutions.

HIGHLIGHTS from last month

At Women Connect last month, Erin Prochnow of the YWCA spoke to

one of our biggest crowds yet about being bold and assertive, providing attendees with practical tips for navigating tricky situations with confidence. We also gathered over 100 donations for the YWCA. Thanks to all that came and donated!

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 19

#FMWFWC

Courage + Confidence: It’s Time to Have Both

“We wanted to bring something classy to West Fargo, but still have a casual cuisine and inviting presence.” – Mike Wald, co-owner and executive chef

Not many restaurants stand the test of time, but one West Fargo gem has just celebrated its 10th anniversary. Maxwells operates at 1380 Ninth Street in West Fargo, and just two years ago celebrated new ownership. The building previously was Littlefields and owned by Mike Marcil, where Mike Wald served as executive chef. It was renovated and reopened as Maxwells in April 2008, and sold to Wald and general manager Ramon Sosa. Today, the duo continues to operate Maxwells as a fine dining establishment unique to

the area. “We knew that West Fargo was on the grow, and we felt there was a market there to offer something more high end for the food scene,” Wald said. “No matter what it takes, we want to deliver the best.” What’s next for the restauranteurs? They’ve discussed some other concepts and locations, but feel that it’s best to stay focused on Maxwells to maintain high standards and monitor trends. Wald expressed how proud they are to be part of the West Fargo community. And while he couldn’t name just one favorite dish, he encourages you to stop by to try the lively menu and sample some of the locally sourced ingredients.

MEMBER PROFILE

Max Burger

Bison Meatballs

Ahi Tuna

Cheese Plate

Beef Tenderloin

Mike Wald Co-owner and executive chef

Ramon Sosa Co-owner and general manager

CCI Projects Unveiled This past month, the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class unveiled their group projects. These Community Change Initiatives (CCIs) apply and reinforce the skills and insights gained throughout the Leadership program while allowing participants a chance to envision, develop and bring to fruition real and lasting community change in collaboration with others. Having worked on these projects for the past seven months, each group gave a 20-minute presentation to the community at Cass County Electric, offering a first look into their hard work and dedication to

Melissa Reichert, Holly Hoeschen, Rhonda Young, Robert Wilson, Maggie Aslakson, Craig Bjur The Technology Empowerment Initiative has been established to support a variety of technology needs for the Jeremiah Program Fargo-Moorhead campus. Focused on a mission to transform families two generations at a time, Jeremiah Program prepares single mothers to excel in the work place, readies their children to succeed in school, and reduces generational dependence on public assistance. This year, the Technology Empowerment Initiative donated 11 Surfaces to the Jeremiah Program. Mark your calendars for July 20 for Lunch for a Cause at Rasmussen College, where the proceeds will go to the Technology Empowerment Initiative!

helping find a solution to a number of our community’s issues.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Jeremiah Program: Technology Empowerment Initiative

Alexis Swenson, Liv Helm, Brett Johnson, Christine Bushy, Josh Payne

FMWF Letter Exchange 22 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

A pen pal project of sorts, the FMWF Letter Exchange promotes positive community, connection and letter writing through the process of exchanging letters bi-monthly between members in the area. Ultimately, the FMWF Letter Exchange encourages a return to the timeless art of writing to a pen pal. By matching young students with residents of senior living communities, the hope is that their written exchange will inspire joyful connection, a sense of unity in the community, recognition of the value of learning how to send handwritten letters and remembering the power a written letter holds.

LEADERSHIP

This group’s goal is to provide an event that invites local non-profits and local professionals the opportunity to get introduced to one another. This offers an opportunity to build new connections and expand networks, help professionals find rewarding volunteer opportunities where they can leverage their skills, and provides non-profits an opportunity to introduce themselves to our local professional community. The first Professionally Paired event was held on April 5 and was a success!

Professionally Paired

#FMWFLEADERSHIP

Danne Doering, Aaron Buffington, Mike Opat, Angie Berntson, Kirsten Peterson

Angie Ryan, Bethany Berkeley, Matthew Gehrtz, Meghna Roehl, Brenda Johnson, Shawn Paschke

Mentorship Matters

While numerous leadership programs and opportunities to network are available in our community, it can be challenging to initiate a formal mentoring relationship, especially when you aren’t already plugged into our community network of professionals and don’t know where to start. The Mentorship Matters toolkit is accessible to businesses and post-secondary institutions throughout the community. The toolkit is a guide to developing and managing a mentorship program to match college students and seasoned professionals and new hires within an organization; help equip students and professionals with valuable leadership insight and soft skills; build the talent pipeline in our community; increase employee engagement; and enhance company culture.

Charlotte Rusch, Carrie Carney, Brandon Chapman, Ryan Mullikin, Tifanie Gelinske, Megan Surdo (NP) As new parents are welcoming a baby into their homes, they should be experiencing many positive feelings; joy, excitement and love. However, some parents experience feelings of worry or doubt at not being able to provide for their new family member. This goal is to provide items to first-time parents that will help them care for their child. Bundle of Joy hopes to make the transition into parenthood an easier, more joy-filled experience.

The Bundle of Joy Project

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 23

Jeff Arntson, Brian Halverson, Laura Caroon, Michelle Enockson, Cal Perleberg (NP)

The City of Moorhead successfully launched single sort recycling in residential areas in July 2017, increasing monthly recycling pickup loads by 400%. The Commercial Recycling Action Group has been working with Moorhead Public Works to pilot an affordable and convenient single-sort recycling solution for the city’s commercial customers as well. The result of this collaboration will be realized this summer as Moorhead will launch a 6-month commercial recycling pilot program for 30 local businesses free of charge. Goals of this pilot program include evaluating the operational and economic feasibility of commercial single sort recycling in addition to soliciting feedback from the selected participants.

Commercial Recycling Action Group

Does your bank move as fast as your business? We understand that timing is everything in business. You need a financial partner that can keep up with your ambition. Whether you need a new construction loan, are fitting up additional office space, or simply need a line of credit, start with us.

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Moorhead

800 30th Ave S (218) 359-2100 24 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

Fargo North

3101 N Broadway (701) 232-6508

Osgood

4501 40th Ave S (701) 277-8558

Fargo South

3001 25th St S (701) 232-1700

West Fargo

1350 13th Ave E (701) 281-2700

Dan Cash, Wes Heyen, Tony Wolf, Mitch Kudrna, Tyler Fischbach Each spring the community is littered with paper, building materials and other trash that has blown in the wind and remained underneath the snow. As it melts, it leaves behind an unsightly amount of garbage that can be unsafe and causes our beautiful parks to look unnecessarily messy. The Clean Community Initiative teamed up with Concordia College during Earth Week to assist in the cleanup. Concordia students, along with other community volunteers, cleaned areas in two Moorhead parks adjacent to the Red River.

Clean Community Initiative

Be a part of next year’s class! Applications are open for the 2018-19 Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo program through May 17. Apply online at fmwfchamber.com. For more information, contact Alyssa at aralston@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0529.

Discover

THE DABBERT DIFFERENCE

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26 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

8th Annual Great American Picnic

Tuesday, June 19 | 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.

Tuesday, June 19 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.

Lindenwood Park, Main Shelter

Roger Maris Drive, Fargo

FREE | Registration required

Join the YPN, family and friends for our seventh annual Great American Picnic! Food and beverages are provided along with lawn games for those who are looking for friendly competition.

New to YPN or thinking about joining? Then this event is for you. Connect with new and current members, learn more about the program and all the ways that you can be involved. We always make time to do some networking, so don’t forget your business cards.

Highlights from last month

Calling All Volunteers!

April brought the YPN to Fargo Brewing for a benefits education panel with our monthly Off the Clock following. Thank you to our panelists for educating our members and to Fargo Brewing for hosting us!

Not competing but still want in on the action at Corporate Cup?

Then, Maxwells welcomed us for an Off the Clock, where we wined and dined at a West Fargo gem. We also swung by D-S Beverages, Inc., where Doug Restemayer hosted Beer 101 and showed YPN members his facility and we sampled his favorite products.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Get the best seats in the house by volunteering! Not only will you get prime spots for spectating, but all volunteers also receive a free T-shirt, and extra points are awarded to competing teams that send volunteers. To join the fun, contact Alyssa at aralston@fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 27

@FMWFYPN

New Member Social

Passion. Grit.

DETERMINATION. A comprehensive benefits package

Some essential elements of business success arise from within. Others come from a trusted network of advisors. Let our experts help you custom-design an employee benefits package that works for you today and helps you get to where you want to be tomorrow.

Let’s get started on your employee benefits plan.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross & Blue Shield Association Noridian Mutual Insurance Company

JO CARNEY

FARGO • 701.282.1153

MITCH KUDRNA

FARGO • 701.282.1446

Tools to simplify your daily business Starion Bank’s Cash Management services provide essential payment options for all types of businesses and organizations. We offer solutions to easily pay bills, collect payments or manage payroll, all with the most advanced security measures available to keep your money safe. We’ll take the time to understand your unique banking needs and find the right solutions.

Call Nicholi or learn more at starionbank.com. Nicholi Knutson Cash Management Officer 701-281-5608 nicholik@starionbank.com Member FDIC

WE’RE ANIMATED

STORYTELLERS.

701.232.3393 videoartsstudios.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 29

NEW MEMBERS

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

Blue Sky Benefit Solutions blueskybenefits.com Insurance ‑ Investments ‑ Employee Benefits Blue Sky Benefits has over 70 combined years of experience in the insurance/benefits industry. They are a leading-edge company that puts YOU first. There are many challenges with health care, employee benefits, and the rising medical deductibles and they offer solutions for you and your company.

Mattress Firm mattressfirm.com Mattresses ‑ Beds Mattress Firm is locally owned but nationally known as America’s #1 mattress retailer. They focus on creating a mattress buying experience unlike any other and carry the best brands at the best prices. Their focus is on helping you find the right mattress, not just selling you a bed.

Building Concepts buildingconcepts.us Home Builders Building Concepts has been designing and building custom homes in Fargo, Moorhead and surrounding areas since 1989. They are architects, designers and a builder’s firm. They focus on the details and make sure their clients enjoy the process and have no surprises.

Pifer’s Auction & Realty pifers.com Farm Management ‑ Appraisals ‑ Sales Pifer’s Auction & Realty is a full-service auction and real estate firm specializing in land auctions, machinery auctions and land management. Pifer’s has several offices in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Arizona to serve you.

COUNTRY Financial countryfinancial.com Insurance ‑ Investments ‑ Employee Benefits You have a lot to protect. From your auto and home, to your family and your farm, Country Financial is here to help you find the right insurance to feel secure.

Prairie Practice Management Professionals, LLC PPMPpro.com Health Care Services Prairie Practice Management Professionals provide a variety of services to their clients including practice start‑up, revenue cycle management, medical billing & coding, practice management, business consulting services, provider & facility credentialing notary public services, EHR services and administrative services.

Dakota Gastroenterology Clinic dakotagi.com Medical ‑ Clinics Dakota Gastroenterology Clinic is an independently owned clinic specializing in digestive disorders. They’re made up of medical professionals who value the personal satisfaction of truly helping patients find answers and relief. Golden Dragon Tattoo 701.297.7570 Retail ‑ Stores/Ecommerce They are a tattoo shop filled with talented artists with many years of experience. They take pride in their work. Every customer of theirs is considered the GDT family. Grain Designs graindesigns.com Furniture ‑ Office Grain Designs is a Fargo-based custom furniture company. They specialize in dining tables, sliding doors, corporate office furniture and more. Each piece of reclaimed wood furniture is thoughtfully designed and well-crafted with your specific needs in mind. Lend A Hand Up lendahandup.org Foundations Lend A Hand Up inspires and compounds generosity to uplift local families through a medical crisis. Lend A Hand Up is community powered and guided by Dakota Medical Foundation. 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. 30 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

Realcom Solutions realcomsolutions.com Consultants RealCom Solutions is a vendor neutral, technology services company that completes infrastructure analyses and provides customized solutions to its clients. They advocate on your behalf to negotiate best‑priced contracts to ensure you are getting the best value for your technology spend. RLN Business Park LLC reiles9th.com Real Estate Residential lots ready for your custom home on the north side with plentiful space for gardening, garage and green space. They have wide streets, great parks and community areas, plus lower taxes! Sheyenne Plaza sheyenneplazawf.com Apartments Sheyenne Plaza is a mixed‑use building located in downtown West Fargo. It’s home to 22 residential units, Ohnstad Twichell Law Firm, Moore Engineering Water Resources Department, the West Fargo VFW and 3,800 square feet of available commercial space. The Bridges | Student Edition bridgesnd.com Real Estate ‑ Property Management The Bridges offers more than a place to live; it’s a student lifestyle. The Bridges focuses on the needs of students by offering all‑inclusive pricing and individual leases. The Bridges‑Student Edition offers students amenities that help support their need to learn and live a healthy lifestyle.

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES As part of a contract extension with the North Dakota Information Technology Department, Dakota Carrier Network and its 15 owner companies will upgrade the internet service of all North Dakota K-12 schools, higher education institutions and government to one gigabit by August 2019. The upgraded connection will allow internet traffic over STAGEnet, the state’s network, to travel faster, ensuring a higher quality experience for

Find the perfect Technology solution to fit your business needs.

students, teachers, state employees and the public. JLG Architects has been selected by MSN Money, through

• Business Continuity

BestLife, as one of the 50 most admired companies in the United

• IT Consulting

States. According to BestLife, the designation was drawn from

• Network Security

“interviews, local business trade magazines, major outlets like

• Technology Support

Forbes and Fortunes, and other statistics.” The MSN Money/

• Digital Strategy

BestLife list identified one organization from each of the 50

• Website/App Development

states. JLG was elected to represent North Dakota, where the

• Creative Design

firm was founded, and was one of two architecture firms on the

• Mobility Solutions

list. Marco has purchased Governor Business Solutions, a leading Managed Print Services, wide format, copier, barcode and

Reach out to an IT expert at Network Center, Inc. 80 0.723.5353

netcenter.net

A/V solution provider in Michigan. The company will continue to operate as Governor Business Solutions for a short time. Its employees have joined Marco’s team and will be serving clients from their current headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan. This purchase allows Marco to further expand its geographic footprint nationally and provide technical services in the state of Michigan. This is the 11th acquisition that the company has completed over the past two years. The Noridian Healthcare Solutions, LLC Provider Contact

Time Communications is here for your business

24/7/365.

Center has been certified as a Center of Excellence by BenchmarkPortal. BenchmarkPortal awards the designation to customer service contact centers that rank in the top 10% of the contact centers surveyed. They are judged against a balanced scorecard of metrics for efficiency and effectiveness. Those contact centers that demonstrate superior performance on both cost-related metrics and quality-related metrics compared with their industry peers earn the award. The local Spherion Staffing services team was recognized for a national Service Excellence Award. The award was presented

• Call Answering Service

• Customer Support Call Center

• Outbound Call Center

• Emergency Dispatch Services

• Tech Support

• Order Taking

at the recent National Owner’s Meeting held in March. This award exemplifies outstanding service delivery to their candidate and client stakeholders. This is shown through both customer

Award-Winning Customer Service.

MONEY-BACK

satisfaction surveys and online reviews, where this team has consistently received top scores, including the categories of overall satisfaction, ‘Would you recommend us’ and their Google review scores.

866.235.8995 | TimeCommunications.biz FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 31

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

The following individuals have been hired or promoted.

Absolute Marketing Group Drew Dalgren, Client Relations Intern Emily Goetsch, Client Relations Intern Karen Ishii, Client Relations Intern

Advanced Business Methods Melissa Paul, Territory Manager Tony Satter, Territory Manager

DALGREN

GOETSCH

ISHII

PAUL

Appareo Daniel Bjertness, Field Test Engineer Eva Blanchard, R&D Engineer Alex Boone, Product Engineering Team Lead Jared Forst, Solutions Engineer Todd Meidinger, Staff Engineer, Mechanical Colton Parks, Electrical Engineer Gregg Ripley, Product Engineering Team Lead Sean Seifert, Product Engineering Team Lead Jesse Trana, Senior Engineer, R & D Mike Zietz, Embedded Software Manager

SATTER

BJERTNESS

Collins and Krank | Raymond James McKayla Glasser, Client Services Assistant

BOONE

FORST

BLANCHARD

PARKS

RIPLEY

Conmy Feste Ltd. Ryan McCamy, Associate Attorney

Corporate Technologies Aaron Jacobson, SharePoint Administrator Matt Morgan, Systems Engineer Bronson Winkler, Service Sales Executive

SEIFERT

TRANA

ZIETZ

GLASSER

McCAMY

JACOBSON

MORGAN

WINKLER

WAGNER

BENEDICT

CLAUSON

DFC Consultants Robert Wagner, Principal Developer

First International Bank & Trust Kathy Conklin, Loan Associate II (no photo)

Flint Group Rachel Benedict, Project Manager Taylor Clauson, Media Coordinator

32 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

MEIDINGER

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

Please help us welcome each of them in their new roles!

Heidi Shaffer Reisenauer, Social Media and Content Strategist Kristen Rheault, Media Planner Allison Wilson, Account Manager

Heritage Homes Lindsey Little, New Home Specialist REISENAUER

RHEAULT

WILSON

LITTLE

Houston Engineering, Inc. Bridget Kessler, Administrative Assistant

ICON Architectural Group

KESSLER

BETLOCK

FRAASE

HENSLEY

Michael Betlock, Senior Interior Designer Danielle Fraase, Procurement Specialist Becky Hensley, Procurement Manager Becky Muller, Interior Designer Mark Sundet, Architect, AIA

Indigo Signworks Rick Schomburger, Chief Executive Officer

Jeremiah Program Fargo-Moorhead MULLER

SUNDET

SCHOMBURGER

MATHERS

WEST

ALLEN

OUREN

BRAZEROL

(not all photos provided) Jan Anderson, Child Development Center Cook Danielle Goraczkowsk, Child Development Center Teacher Amy Klein, Family Services Manager Angela Mathers, Board of Trustees Member Ashley Morris, Child Development Center Teacher Casey Morton, Office Manager Kristin Nelson, Child Development Center Director Julie West, Board of Trustees Member

JLG Architects Michelle Mongeon Allen, Chief Executive Officer

Media Productions Amy Ouren, Experience Manager GODWIN

LOPP

ROLLER

BEITO

Network Center, Inc. Ken Brazerol, Senior Project Manager Brandon Godwin, Support Specialist Robert Lopp, Director of Healthcare Practice Jon Roller, Support Specialist

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

North Dakota Autism Center, Inc. Amy Beito, Finance Director

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 33

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

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

North Dakota State University David Bertolini, Dean, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

Park Co. Realtors Machelle Velaski, REALTOR®

The RLE Group

BERTOLINI

VELASKI

HOFF

ALI

ARMSTRONG

MANICKAVASAGAM

PATTA

REGULAGADDA

SAUER

GIBBINS

PETERSEN

CHAPUT

Danielle Hoff, Project Manager

Sanford Health Zulfiqar Ali, M.D., Pulmonology Leonard Armstrong, M.D., Colorectal Surgery Saraswathy Manickavasagam, M.D., Cardiac Electrophysiology Annie Patta, M.D., Internal Medicine Ashish Regulagadda, M.D., Nephrology Erica Sauer, M.D., Pediatric Hospitalist

Spotlight Media Darren Gibbins, Distribution Manager

Super Studio Andrew Petersen, Production Artist

TCI Insurance Ashley Chaput, Financial Operations Manager Carrie L. Norby, Personal Lines Client Manager

The Village Family Service Center Gail Nelson, First Step Recovery Director Kelly Olson, Chief Clinical Officer

NORBY

OLSON

NELSON

LARSON

Town & Country Credit Union Tyler Larson, Executive Mortgage Officer

Wanzek Construction Rob Lee, Executive Vice President

YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties Tia Farnsworth, School Age Coordinator MacKenzie Hamm, School Age Coordinator Misty Nelson, Accountant Sarah Piersol, Group Fitness Coordinator Heather Sauer, Aquatics Director

LEE

PIERSOL

SAUER

NELSON

HAMM

FARNSWORTH

Britt Selbo, Vice President of Member & Program Services

34 THE BRIDGE · MAY 2018

SELBO

CELEBRATIONS: March Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings

BeMobile Grand opening 815 23rd Ave E, Ste 101, West Fargo bemobile.com

Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County Grand opening of exhibit: War, Flu and Fear: World War I and Clay County 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead

Midwest Nest Magazine Grand opening 4150 40th Avenue SW, Ste 310, Fargo midwestnestmagazine.com

Starion Bank

Duluth Trading Company Grand opening 2261 Rustad Lane East, West Fargo duluthtrading.com

LFP Partners Relocation 2731 12th Avenue South, Suite A, Fargo lfppartners.com

Saving Smiles Dentistry Grand opening 3210 18th Street South, Suite B, Fargo savingsmilesdentistry.com

Ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings are led by the Publics Relations Ambassadors, a group odf dedicated volunteers who help The Chamber members celebrate their business accomplishments. If you would like more information on cuttings, visit fmwfchamber.com or call Mickayla at 218.233.1100.

10-year anniversary 2754 Brandt Drive South, Fargo Starionbank.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 35

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