The Bridge September 2014 by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

Bridge September 2015 | Vol 18 | No. 1

the

FLYING ACES

RENOWNED AVIATORS NAMED 2014 LEGACY LEADERS

Young Professionals Network | 10 years of history

Major member announcement at Business After Hours

Board of Directors Doug Restemayer Jon Riewer Judd Graham Bernie Dardis Thomas Astrup Chuck Driscoll Jodi Duncan Don Gronke Katie Hasbargen Peggy Kennedy Norm Leslie Kathy Lewin Paul Richard Steve Swiontek Jeff Volk

Chamber Staff

Craig Whitney Jim Parsons Julie Doggett Darren Dunlop Samantha Gust Jessica Lee Tracy Meckler Gail Petersen Elly Peterson Tracy Powell Bobbi Jo Rehder Kaylyn Stroh Danielle Teigen Mickayla Thompson Julie Yourczek

D-S Beverages, Inc. Board Chair Eventide Senior Living Communities Chair Elect Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Treasurer Indigo Signworks Immediate Past Chair American Crystal Sugar Company Red River Refrigeration, Inc. Flint Communications, Inc. State Farm Insurance Microsoft Minnesota State Community and Technical College National Hospitality Services City of West Fargo Sanford Health Gate City Bank Moore Engineerig, Inc.

President/CEO Vice President of Finance/Operations Information Systems Administrator Business Development Manager Program Coordinator - Leadership FMWF Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager Membership Sales Manager Membership Relations Coordinator Program Coordinator - Young Professionals Network Director of Events & Programs Events Coordinator Publications & Program Marketing Coordinator Communications & Marketing Manager Administrative Services Coordinator Administrative Support Coordinator

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.

In this Issue

4 19 25 27 32

Flying Aces

Renowned aviators named 2014 Legacy Leaders

Member News Member Profile

See what made Kory Anderson the ChamberChoice Entrepreneur of the Year

Community Calendar Chamber Events

2 | September 2014

Message to Members

September marks the start of The Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fiscal year, and this will be our fourth year as a consolidated organization representing this thriving metro. It is my great privilege to step into the Board chair role for the upcoming year, and I especially want to thank Bernie Dardis for his excellent leadership this past year.

Your Chamber has an aggressive agenda for the coming year as we continue our mission of promoting economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through advocacy, education and engagement. Two top priority items that we will continue to advance are permanent flood protection and workforce development. We are excited to see progress on the journey toward protecting our homes and businesses from disastrous flooding with the federal authorization of funding for the diversion project. The Chamber, the Board of Directors and our Business Leaders for Permanent Flood Protection Task Force will continue to advocate for the project until it becomes a reality. With the amazing growth happening in our area workforce availability and development has become a major focus. As the regional representative of more than 2,100 businesses, we hear often that our members are successful but could be even more so if all the open jobs were filled. The Chamber believes our quality of life will attract people to the area but the availability of competitive-pay jobs and abundant amenities will be the factors that keep them in the area. In addition to these community priorities, The Chamber is excited to offer new programs that will focus on two important demographics: women and young people. We believe our community can only improve when we focus on these two groups, and we are excited to see these programs get rolling. Thank you to all the Board members who are currently serving or have served; your commitment to seeing The Chamber grow and prosper is appreciated. I am also grateful to the innumerable volunteers who devote their time and talent to The Chamber. Finally, thank you, members, for believing in the work of this organization and engaging with the organization. We recognize that our success lies parallel with yours, and we continue to evaluate how we can improve our programs, events, and services to ensure they remain valuable to you. Thank you for making The Chamber the strong organization it is today! Sincerely, Doug Restemayer D-S Beverages 2014-15 Chair of the Board

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Flying Aces

Renowned Aviators Named 2014 Legacy Leaders In terms of military achievement and aviation fame, one cannot imagine Alexander “Mac” Macdonald without Darrol Schroeder and vice versa. Both men were raised in Davenport, North Dakota, and both developed a longtime love of aviation and all things airplanerelated. Macdonald enlisted in the military at age 19, becoming a mechanic and pilot who flew 36 combat missions in Korea. He became commander of the guard unit and sent the first woman pilot to Air Force training. He spent 13 years as commander of the North Dakota Air National Guard (NDANG) 119th Fighter Group, the Happy Hooligans. During his time, Macdonald gained national prominence by winning the National Flight Safety Record Award, thrice winning the all-Air Force William Tell air-to-air competition, and the Daedalion Maintenance Award. Macdonald became the first North Dakota Air National Guardsman to assume the state’s top post of adjutant general. Macdonald earned a North Dakota Distinguished Service Medal for safely landing a transport aircraft carrying Governor Bill Guy and First Lady Jean Guy. He earned the highest rating as an air defense pilot — Master of Air Defense — and retired in 1993 after 45 years of military service. Meanwhile, Schroeder began his aviation career when he hitchhiked to Hector Airport to take lessons, eventually flying a 65-horsepower Aeronca Champ solo at age 16. During his senior year of high school Schroeder joined the North Dakota Air National Guard and was commissioned after he graduated from NDSU in 1951. He became an Air Force instructor, flight examiner, and test pilot. He served 40 years of active duty in Germany, France and the National Guard, eventually serving as Major General. At his retirement in 1989, Schroeder had accumulated more than 5,000 fighter aircraft hours. While serving, Schroeder founded Schroeder Aviation, Inc., an agricultural aviation and fixedbase operation in Davenport. He operated a fleet of 12 aircraft and accumulated more than 12,000 aerial application hours serving area farmers until 1989. Schroeder also helped lead the Happy Hooligans, first as flight commander and later as director of group operations, mentoring many young fighter pilots assigned to him. In 1974, Schroeder was promoted to Brigadier General and Chief of Staff of the NDANG. In 1983, he was assigned as ANG assistant to the commander of Air Forces in Europe. After retiring from the military, Schroeder became director of business development for the UND Aerospace program and played a key role in acquiring the first civilian highaltitude pressure chamber in the United States. As a civilian, Macdonald worked as chief executive officer of Dakota First Capital Corporation, a small business investment corporation in Fargo.

4 | September 2014

He and Schroeder combined their aviation passion and business savvy to found the Fargo Air Museum, becoming instrumental players in the effort to keep the organization solvent. In founding the museum, Macdonald and Schroeder helped develop a mission statement and long-term plan, and opened the first hangar in 2001. Both continue to be involved with the museum in a variety of ways; in 2013, Macdonald served as a guide for an aviation history tour at the museum, discussing the Cold War with approximately 150 West Fargo sophomores. Both Schroeder and Macdonald were inducted into the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame in 2009 and 2010, respectively. Schroeder and Macdonald both received Alumni Achievement Awards from NDSU, in 1991 and 1973, respectively. Schroeder is also a member of the NDSU Development Foundation Board of Directors, and Macdonald and his wife are members of the Team Maker’s Silver Club and the NDSU President’s Bronze Medallion Society. Schroeder earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from NDSU; he was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2008.

Schroeder’s other civic contributions include serving as treasurer for the National Agricultural Aviation Association, a member of the National Aviation Hall of Fame Nominating Committee, North Dakota Aeronautics Commission, MeritCare board of directors (a role that led him to initiate the first air medical operation in the area), the governing board and building committee of the North Dakota Veterans Home, and the North Dakota Aviation Association. He also served a four-year term on the Forces Reserve Policy Board after being appointed by the secretary of defense.

For 20 years, Schroeder has served as the co-chairman of the biannual Fargo Airshow, an event that brings people from beyond the region and offers tangible value to the local economy. In 1987, Schroeder received the North Dakota National Leadership Award of Excellence and the FAA Master Pilot Award in 2005 for 50 consecutive years of accident-free flight. Macdonald’s civic contributions include serving on the Municipal Airport Authority for more than 20 years, president of the state Elks Association, commander of the American Legion Post, chair of the North Dakota State Games and chairman of the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery Foundation. In 2013, both Schroeder and Macdonald witnessed the last Learjet leaving the 119th Wing in Fargo, leaving the Happy Hooligans without a manned flying mission for the first time in their distinguished 66-year history, according to an Aug. 27, 2013, Forum article. After returning to Fargo after his tour of duty in the Korean War, Macdonald piloted the P-51 Mustang, the first fighter plane to fly under the umbrella of 2007 - William C. Marcil, Sr. the newly formed NDANG.

Past Legacy Leaders

North Dakota remains the only state in the nation without a manned Air Guard flying mission. Schroeder and Macdonald are active members of The Chamber’s Military Affairs committee and the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Air National Guard Support Group, and as such, both have traveled to Washington, D.C., with Chamber leadership to lobby in support of reinstating a manned flying mission in North Dakota.

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The Fourth Annual Meeting Thursday, September 11 Noon to 1:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo

Thank you to our sponsors! (As of publication date.)

Presenting Sponsor

Join us as we honor the volunteers who help us achieve our work, review our 2013-14 accomplishments and recognize our 2014 Legacy Leader award recipients, Alexander Macdonald and Darrol Schroeder. You will also hear about exciting new Chamber programs being launched this year!

Chairman Sponsor

Event Production Sponsor

Legacy Sponsors

Bankers. Experts. Friends.

Corporate Table Sponsors Alerus Financial Avis Rent A Car - Airport Bethany Retirement Living Bremer Bank Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc. Eide Bailly LLP Fargo Jet Center

First International Bank & Trust Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation Heritage Homes, LLC Holiday Inn Fargo KFGO-Midwest Communications KLJ Midcontinent Communications

North Dakota State University Otter Tail Corporation Prudential Premier Real Estate U.S. Bank Wanzek Construction, Inc. Warner and Company Insurance Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Western State Bank

Craig Whitney | President and CEO Bernie Dardis | 2013-14 Chair of the Board

In July, Chamber President and CEO, Craig Whitney, joined Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker and Doug Restemayer from D-S Beverages, Inc., at the North Dakota Horse Park for a great day of racing. General Manager Mike Schmitz even treated them to a meetand-greet with the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

6 | September 2014

Chamber Competes for National Title of Chamber of the Year Last month, the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce competed against the best chambers in the nation for the title of American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) 2014 Chamber of the Year. This year, ACCE received more than 40 applications and divided the finalists into categories based on five factors: population, number of area businesses, total revenue, percentage of total revenue restricted and current membership. The Chamber competed in Category 3, along with: §§ Asheville Area (NC) Chamber of Commerce §§ Bowling Green Area (KY) Chamber of Commerce §§ Greater Waco (TX) Chamber §§ Hilton Head (SC) Island – Bluffton Hilton Head earned the 2014 award. “While we are sad we didn’t win Chamber of the Year, we are honored to have been named a finalist among so many great organizations,” said Chamber President and CEO Craig Whitney.

Jim Parsons, Tracy Powell and Craig Whitney pose with the award ceremony emcee James Cunningham, who has twice emceed The Chamber’s annual award luncheon.

The process for being considered for the award began in February when chambers submitted their operational information. In March, The Chamber was notified that it qualified to apply for the prestigious award, a process that involved compiling information for four different sections that highlighted organizational excellence, member services and outreach and chamber programs. All applications were reviewed and scored by two judges and the highest scoring applications in each category were named finalists. Each finalist completed a face-to-face interview with chamber leaders during the ACCE annual convention so winners could be determined.

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Tech Trends: Speakers Describe Newest Technology Transforming Commerce U.S. Sen. John Hoeven and Doug Burgum asserted at the State of Technology conference last month that North Dakota is in a prime position to become one of the most technologically advanced cities in the nation. “We can make Fargo the technology and entrepreneurial hub of not just North Dakota, but of this country, and I believe we are already on our way,” Hoeven said during his opening remarks. Burgum’s presentation focused on the technology trends at work in the energy, agriculture, health care and education sectors, while issuing a new challenge regarding workforce development. He cited the more than 23,000 job openings as a challenge to be addressed immediately. “That is work not being done, income not going to a family and progress not being made by a company,” Burgum said. He reissued his challenge to develop the fastest internet service available as a way to attract more workers and companies to the area to fulfill the workforce gap. Other highlights of the event included:

§§A live demonstration of the speed of gigabit fiber compared to the megabit internet commonly used. Use the hashtag #ifihadagig to share what you would do with super speed internet.

§§ A live cardiac exam on stage using a mobile imaging unit currently available in Sanford Health’s mobile health unit in western North Dakota. §§ Learning how Scheels will be a national leader by implementing a locationtracking app Myriad Mobile is developing for the retailer. Every Scheels employee will have a device with the app, so when you ask where to find that Under Armour sweatshirt you’ve been wanting to buy, that employee can point you in the precise direction. §§ Having nearly 700 social media mentions containing #stateoftech14. Congratulations to the following organizations for earning awards from the Information Technology Council of North Dakota (ITCND): §§ Premier IT Business | AgriData Inc. §§ Technology Innovator | Stutsman County §§ North Dakota IT Champion | North Dakota State Patrol Check out photos of the event online through The Chamber's Flickr account.

Gold Sponsors

8 | September 2014

Silver Sponsors

Thank you to all the speakers who contributed to the event, including:

Katie Hasbargen Microsoft

U.S. Senator John Hoeven

Gary Inman ITCND

Kevin Czarnecki General Electric

Susan Brown General Electric

Peter Boesen General Electric

Shane Waslaski Intelligent InSites

Tristan Polluck Storefront

Tim Brookins Microsoft

Jake Joraanstad Myriad Mobile

Supporting Sponsors

Jean Maaske Z!ng

Event Production Sponsor

Social Media Partner Corporate Sponsor

Cornerstone Bank

fmwfchamber.com | 9

Shine a Spotlight on Your Company Put your company in the spotlight by sponsoring a Chamber program or event. Whether your business wants to support young entrepreneurs, business training sessions, emerging leaders, networking opportunities, or just believes in what The Chamber does, we can tailor your sponsorship to your specific interests and goals.

More members have gone above and beyond their annual dues to invest in our events and programs, elevating them to Premier Partner status. Check out the October issue of The Bridge to see what companies have become our newest Premier Partners!

We are proud of the engaged members who attend our events, use our services and participate in our programs, and sponsorship means your company will be in front of thousands of people. Our members represent some of the region’s most important and influential corporate leaders, managers, small business owners, young professionals, entrepreneurs, educators and political figures. Event opportunities include: §§ Annual Meeting §§ Voices of Vision §§ State of the Cities §§ Economic Outlook Forum §§ Chamber Challenge Golf Outing §§ Corporate Cup §§ ChamberChoice Awards and Luncheon §§ Business After Hours

Program opportunities include: §§ Business Training §§ Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo §§ Military Affairs §§ Women Connect §§ Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) §§ Young Professionals Network

For more information, contact Darren Dunlop at ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

We partner with The Chamber on the economic outlook survey because it allows us to use our financial resources in accord with our Chamber membership to reach the largest possible audience. We believe that together we can provide more meaningful information than either could do alone. It's been a wonderful partnership, and we hope the business community can gain from the knowledge that together we assemble and share. Dan Staller, Market President Starion Financial

Marco is among a select group of companies in the nation that is 100 percent employee owned. As a result, we’re pretty passionate about doing things right.

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Our 750 employees think like owners – because they are. That means they are more invested in the success of our business and what’s best for our customers. All this translates to a more positive work environment and a better place to do business.

Connect with Marco — your trusted technology advisor.

10 | September 2014

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Business Training

Military Leadership Lessons Passionate, Engaged for Corporate America Employees Generate Results He can heel kick and sing the national anthem, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not all.

Simplify. Clarify. Inspire. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what leaders do. You can too.

Mark J. Lindquist from Breath is Limited Motivational Speaking, LLC, is also a former sergeant with the United States Air Force and an Afghanistan war veteran who will pull from his experiences to give you a glimpse into the world of military decision-making.

The concept of magnetic companies involved researching more than 100 companies in 10 countries to determine how successful leaders attract passionate, engaged employees, offer incredible customer service and enjoy profitable results.

Having led a military unit through 22 countries and 39 states, Lindquist can highlight aspects of the military culture that can translate to the civilian workplace to help your organization maximize productivity and team member morale.

Join Us

Pam McGee from Minnesota State University Moorhead will highlight the common trends among these companies and how you can apply the principles to your business. Whether you are a senior leader, project manager or team leader, you will leave this training with ideas for shifting your organizational culture to one of engagement, purpose and results.

Join Us

Wednesday, September 17 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead, 1080 28th Avenue South

Thursday, October 9 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cambria Suites, 825 East Beaton Drive, West Fargo

Registration (includes lunch) Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door General Admission: $45 in advance | $55 at the door

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Business Training Sponsors

Program Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

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Member Contributions

Is Your Business Prepared for a Potential Disaster?

Here in the Red River Valley, tornadoes, floods and fires occur frequently and suddenly. Is your business prepared if a disaster or emergency strikes? The American Red Cross – Red River Valley Chapter wants businesses in the area to know that the organization offers a free service called Ready Rating. The program helps businesses, schools and organizations prepare for disasters and other emergencies. Ready Rating members have access to tools, resources and information for assessing and improving their ability to withstand disaster, maintain operations and protect lives and property. In a recent survey of Ready Rating members, more than 90 percent reported that the self-assessment helped them understand how prepared their organization was for an emergency. The Ready Rating program launched in 2008 in St. Louis and has grown into a nationally offered service. What began as a marketing tool to open doors for conversion about businesses preparing for emergencies has become an enhanced tool and streamlined program. The new program is better aligned with the Department of Homeland Security Private Sector Preparedness Guide. Learn more at readyrating.org.

Community Partners Serve As Bedrock to Health Care Reform Questions The way we shop for and buy our health insurance has changed dramatically since the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010. Fortunately, navigators may be a trusted source for in-person assistance when applying or enrolling. Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership, Inc., has several navigators on staff to assist families and individuals through the MNSure System. “All Lakes & Prairies staff have had background checks by the State of Minnesota and passed or they would not be on staff,” explained Joe Pederson, executive director of Lakes and Prairie Community Action Agency. In Minnesota, navigators are not insurance agents or brokers, but they have completed 20 hours of training and passed a required exam. Certified navigators in Clay County, Minnesota, can be located by visiting www.mnsure.org.

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Young Professionals Network

Upcoming Events

Networking to Business Lunch

Tips & Tricks of the Business Traveler Tuesday, September 16 | 11:30 to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead 1080 28th Avenue South, Moorhead $20 YPN Member | $30 General Admission $25 YPN Member Walk-in | $35 General Admission Walk-in Navigating new cities and regional cultures is something that many road warriors and periodic business travelers face. Where do you find the hot spots to eat? How do you deal with last minute travel changes? What are the best ways to balance work life and home life while on the road? Come hear from experienced road warriors Linette Dahl and Brad Thurow, Appareo Systems, as they share their tips and tricks for making the most out of your business travel.

YPN Program Sponsors

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YPN 10 Year Anniversary Celebration Thursday, September 25 | 5:30 p.m. Cambria Suites, 825 East Beaton Drive, West Fargo $45 Admission

Join us for a night of inspiration and entertainment as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Young Professionals Network. We will kick off the night with a social hour to connect with new and old friends. During dinner, we will hear from John Machacek, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, as he shares with us the past, present and future of young professionals in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll round out the event by rocking the night away with a stellar dueling pianos show. This is one event that you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss!

Schedule of Events

Social at 5:30 Dinner served at 6:30 Dueling pianos at 8

Young Professionals Network

Celebrating 10 Years as a Chamber Program

When it comes to The Chamber, most milestone anniversaries are celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. However, celebrating the 10year anniversary of the Young Professionals Network (YPN) requires a bit more pomp and circumstance. This month, YPN members, Chamber members and the Board of Directors are invited to celebrate the program’s growth and achievements at a celebration on Thursday, September 25 at Cambria Suites. The event kicks off with a social before dinner, and the event concludes with a dueling pianos show that is sure to get everyone on their feet. “Our Young Professionals Network has so much to be proud of, and we wanted to make sure we celebrated the program’s success,” said Chamber President and CEO Craig Whitney.

At the Beginning

Ten years ago, Fargo, North Dakota and the Midwest in general were making headlines, but not for the reasons they do today; a decade ago, reasons why young, college educated adults were fleeing in droves were being dissected by the masses. According to a January 01, 2013, Bakken Today article, North Dakota lost more than 24,000 20- to 34-year olds. Between 2000 and 2001, the state’s population dropped 1.2 percent, the only state with a declining population at the time. A May 5, 2005, Economist article surmised that the brain drain problem was a symptom of successfully educating its residents but that the rural nature of the state was not a draw in keeping them.

Justin Forde (right), the first chair of the YPN committee, and other members network at one of the first YPN events.

“Call it the lure of the multiplex. North Dakota’s young people say that what makes for a wonderful childhood can be an inhospitable environment for young adults…Unlike migrants from many northern industrial cities, North Dakota’s youths are fleeing prosperity, not economic decline,” wrote Dennis Cauchon in USA Today in February 2004.

Enter YPN

When it was created, the YPN was the first of its kind in the area and was a direct response to the brain drain occurring. YPN held its first event at a Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks game, and more than 100 people attended the event. The program’s original mission statement included providing opportunities for young professionals to build a network and develop the skills needed to succeed in their chosen profession or occupation. The program also hoped to connect members to the community to encourage them to stay in the area. At the beginning, the program was designed to include up to six training events and six socials each year. As membership grew and young professionals became more involved, the amount of events increased. Today, YPN hosts a monthly social gathering, a monthly training lunch as well as numerous other events. With more than 500 members to date, YPN has matured to a respectable program whose members go on to lead successful professional lives.

Share Your Story

Are you a YPN member with a success story to share? Perhaps you’ve found incredible success through a connection you made in YPN. Or, maybe you met your best friend or spouse. Whatever your story is, we want to hear it. Program Coordinator Elly Peterson is collecting YPN success stories to be shared at the 10 Year Anniversary Celebration. Please send yours to her at epeterson@fmwfchamber.com.

fmwfchamber.com | 15

Young Professionals Network

Meet Your YPN Leaders

The work of the YPN can be attributed to the incredible volunteers who serve as its leaders. The following individuals have committed their time and talent during 2014-15 to creating a program that helps the metro’s young professionals thrive and succeed. “I am honored to serve in a leadership capacity with the Young Professionals Network. I am excited to see where this motivated group of young professionals takes us and how they will affect the future of our great community.” Chair Jamie Fay, Eide Bailly LLP

Vice-Chair Leslie Wood, Lightowler Johnson Associates, Inc.

Past Chair Dustin Dale, Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.

Membership Services Chair Amanda Carlson, State Farm Insurance - Jay Bartley Agency

Corporate Cup Chair Niketa Kusler, MAC's, Inc.

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Your

Chamber Board of Directors Elects New Members Four new faces have joined the Chamber Board of Directors. Newly elected board members include Steve Swiontek, president and CEO of Gate City Bank, and Jeff Volk, president and CEO of Moore Engineering, Inc. Newly appointed board members include Peggy Kennedy, president of Minnesota State Community and Technical College, and Jodi Duncan, president of Flint Communications, Inc. Doug Restemayer, president of D-S Beverages, Inc., has been named chair. Swiontek

Volk

Jon Riewer, president of Eventide Senior Living Communities, has been named chair elect. Judd Graham, market president of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., has been named treasurer. Bernie Dardis, CEO of Indigo Signworks, is the immediate past chair after serving as the chair in 2013-14.

Kennedy

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Returning board members include: Tom Astrup, American Crystal Sugar Company; Chuck Driscoll, Red River Refrigeration; Don Gronke, State Farm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Don Gronke; Katie Hasbargen, Microsoft; Norm Leslie, National Hospitality Services, Kathy Lewin, City of West Fargo; and Paul Richard, Sanford Health.

fmwfchamber.com | 17

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Fargo Armed Forces Reserve Center Visit

Last month, members of the Military Affairs committee and Honor Star program toured the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Fargo. The group was briefed by Lt. Col. Deb Lien on current missions before learning more about weapons systems, Taser capabilities, funeral honors and the 188th Army Band. Steve Larson from Heritage Homes bravely volunteered for the Taser demonstration, while others tested out the rifle simulators. The group was also treated to a barbecue grill-out at the end of the tour.

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Read more about the experience and check out photos by visiting The Chamber blog at www.fmwfchamber.com/blog.

Alpha Sea Trials Complete

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The USS North Dakota was submerged for the first time and completed the Alpha Sea Trials testing propulsion and engineering. The commissioning is set for October 25 in Groton, Connecticut. For more information, J&M Bridge Ad.Final.pdf visit www.usnd.com. 1 12/30/13 9:15 AM

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Advocacy in Action

Chamber Candidate Cracker Barrel Set Thursday, October 22 | 3 to 5 p.m. Hjemkomst Center, 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead

A “cracker barrel” is a traditional expression used to describe a habitual discussion among a common group or community. The Chamber’s Candidate Cracker Barrel initiates or inspires routine conversations between our policy makers and business leaders. We’ve designed the event to provide you an opportunity to meet candidates and share the issues you are most interested in. The format is informal, unintimidating and very fast-paced. Join a table or invite your colleagues and form your own. North Dakota and Minnesota legislative candidates will attend, as will Cass and Clay County Commission candidates.

Time to Speak Up – Member Input Meeting Thursday, September 5 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. The Chamber, 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead

The Chamber’s Public Affairs committee is charged with the task of vetting the policy statements for our annual Public Policy Guide. The statements serve as a roadmap as we consider positions on policy issues. They also are intended to convey to our membership where we stand on priority issues. To get involved in the discussion, contact Jessica at jlee@fmwfchamber. com.

Public Affairs Committee to Consider Post Labor Day School Mandate North Dakotans will be voting on an initiative that would require schools to start classes after Labor Day. Currently, each school district in the state designs their respective school calendar. The Chamber will be studying how the change would affect both education and commerce. If the measure passes in November, the law would be effective for the 2015-16 school year. If you would like to weigh in on this issue from the business perspective, please contact Jessica at jlee@fmwfchamber.com.

Expect the Very Best

Announcing Enventis Cloud Services!

Voice & VoIP • Data & Internet • Cloud Services Give your business an advantage by calling Enventis today.

enventis.com | 701.356.6000 fmwfchamber.com | 19

Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Meet the 2014-15 Class!

Congratulations to the 40 participants selected to be part of the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo 2014-15 class. The next nine months are sure to be full of excitement and education. Please help us congratulate the next group of leaders!

Stephen Astrup JD Legal Planning P.L.L.C.

Keith Bergseth Bergseth Bros. Co, Inc.

Will Brandt Microsoft

Jeney Christensen Courtyard by Mariott Fargo-Moorhead

David Ebinger Moorhead Police Department

Craig Ehrmantraut Cornerstone Bank

Nicole Erickson AgCountry Farm Credit Services

Jackie Erovick Otter Tail Corporation

Deb Gemar Hospice of the Red River Valley

Jen Gompf Winmar Diagnostics

Fred Greer Forum Communications Printing

T.J. Hansen Minnesota State University Moorhead

Chris Heaton West Acres Development, L.L.P.

Nate Hendrickson TNT Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fitness & Gymnastics

Josh Huffman The Village Family Service Center

Chad Jaroszewski Bell State Bank & Trust

Leissa Johnson Serco Global Services LLC

Lindsay Johnson Discovery Benefits, Inc.

Tracy Jordre JLG Architecture

Tyler Klose Border States Electric

Kristin Krile Dress for Success Red River Valley of the Upper Midwest

Courtney Larson Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

Sara Lingwall Essentia Health

Pat Lorenson Ramsey National Bank

20 | September 2014

Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo

Katie Lowry TMI Hospitality

Tim Lystad John Deere Electronic Solutions

Dan Madler Beyond Shelter, Inc.

Jordan McCormick Family Wellness

Matt Oachs Western State Bank

Alycia Peter Rasmussen College

Mike Reitan West Fargo Police Department

Logan Rogers Gate City Bank

Travis Riffey Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Diane Sandven Heartland Trust Company

Val Schwantes Enventis

Joanna Slominski Mortenson Construction

Program Sponsors

Ken Story The Empowerment Project

Kristen Sullivan Goldmark Property Management

Josh Swanson Vogel Law Firm

Shannon Uecker Noridian Mutual Insurance Company

Here for your business needs Starion Financial welcomes Kevin Kragnes as a new Business Banking Officer, VP. Kevin has 20 years of lending and banking experience, and a strong customer service background. He brings the resources of our entire organization to the table to better serve you. Call or stop by to tell him about your goals today.

Kevin Kragnes Business Banking Expert Starion Financial

starionfinancial.com 2754 Brandt Drive S 701-281-5603 Member FDIC

fmwfchamber.com | 21

Member News Adam Kubista was hired as an instrumentation and controls technician at Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. Kubista has eight years of experience as an electrician with two years of experience in electrical automation.

Colville

Kubista

CETEC Engineering Services, Inc. of Rapid City, South Dakota, will be joining the staff of Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. The two firms specialize in environmental and civil engineering services, with a focus on water. CETEC will operate as AE2S going forward and will maintain its current office in Rapid City.

Ebensteiner

Cally Colville was promoted to senior frontline specialist, and Amy Ebensteiner was recently promoted to frontline operations manager at Choice Financial. Colville joined Choice in 2013 as a frontline customer service representative. Ebensteiner joined Choice in 2014 as a frontline customer service representative.

Choice Financial was named to “The Best of the Best” list by the Independent Community Bankers of America, an organization that represents more than 6,500 community banks of all sizes throughout the country. Choice was ranked third for return on equity and fourth for return on assets in the category of a $500 million to $1 billion Subchapter S Corp bank.

Joe Ackerland and Jonathan Donnelly, VP/ branch managers with Bell State Bank & Trust, recently attended the Dakota School of Banking sponsored by the North Dakota Bankers Association and endorsed by the South Dakota Bankers Association. This school is designed to meet the needs of bank personnel.

Callie Thielen has been hired as an interior design assistant at Design Direction. Thielen graduated from North Dakota State University in May with a bachelor’s degree in interior design.

Thielen

Heilman

Knutson

Melgaard

Stensrud

Jodi Heilman was hired as senior vice president of marketing; Heather Knutson was hired as credit officer; Stephanie Melgaard was hired as call center manager; and Karen Stensrud was named vice president of communications and public relations at Bell State Bank & Trust. Heilman earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Knutson earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Minnesota State University Moorhead and has been in the banking field for nine years. Melgaard earned a bachelor’s degree in communication from University of Northern Colorado. Stensrud joined Bell State Bank & Trust in 2003 and previously served as vice president of marketing and communications. For the second straight year, Bell State Bank & Trust has been named among the Top 50 Community Bank Leaders in social media by the Independent Community Bankers of America®. The list highlights community banks regarded as social media “trailblazers” in the financial industry.

dogIDs.com was selected to join the Google Trusted Stores program. To help shoppers identify online merchants that offer a great shopping experience, the Google Trusted Store badge is awarded to e-commerce sites that demonstrate a track record of on-time shipping and excellent customer service. Edgewood Vista and Village raised more than $27,000 in The Longest Day event to earn itself the number five position in the top 10 teams during the 2014 event. The event raises money for Alzheimer’s disease awareness.

Ellefson

Fay

Husar

Jones

Schmitz

Weiss

Brittney Zahradka was named employment coordinator at Bethany Retirement Living. Zahradka earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from North Dakota State University.

Zahradka

Aldana

Lindseth

Twite

Kristi Aldana, Casey Lindseth and Tamara Twite were promoted to residential coordinators for CCRI, Inc. Aldana and Lindseth have been with the company for three years. Twite has worked at CCRI for two years.

Bohanna

Jastram

Blake Ellefson, Jamie Fay, Shane Husar, Zach Jastram, Rachel Jones, Jessica Schmitz and Andy Weiss were promoted to manager at Eide Bailly, LLP. Ellefson, Fay, Husar, Jastram, Schmitz and Weiss serve as audit managers. Jones is a tax manager.

Brian Bohanna, Eide Bailly LLP, attained Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification in Windows Server 2012. MCSA certification requires in-depth technical skill and understanding in Windows Server 2012, including installation and configuration, administration and advanced network troubleshooting, across multiple solution areas in a business environment to reduce IT costs and deliver more business value.

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Dr. Matthew Gerde joined the emergency medicine department at Essentia Health. Dr. Gerde earned a medical degree from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences and completed a residency in emergency medicine at Beaumont Health System. Gerde

Fargo Fire Chief Steve Dirksen successfully completed the process that awards him the professional designation of “Chief Fire Officer” (CFO). The process includes an assessment of the applicant’s education, experience, professional development, technical competencies, contributions to the profession and community involvement. The Fargo Fire Department trained with Specialized Response Solutions, LP (SRS), a Fort Worth, Texas based company that provides hazardous materials training for emergency responders. The training is focused on extinguishing crude oil fires using firefighting foam. BNSF has provided a foam trailer that can be transported throughout the region to assist fire departments with responding to crude oil emergencies. The BNSF foam trailer is housed with the FFD.

Bell

Eckhoff

Erickson

Fandrich

Mary Jerome, Jennifer Johns and Anne Olson were hired as closing officers at FM Title. Jerome spent 15 years in the mortgage loan business and 18 years in the closing business, most recently as closing Jerome Johns Olson manager at Valley Title. Johns, who has a background as a realtor and a retail manager, attended Rasmussen College. Olson, who also has a background as a realtor and in social services, graduated from the University of North Dakota. Shawn Carlson was promoted to mortgage loan origination supervisor at Gate City Bank. Carlson has been with Gate City Bank since 2010 and was previously the mortgage loan underwriter.

Carlson

H2M is partnering with Worldwide Partners, Inc. (WPI), the world’s largest network of independent advertising agencies and eighth largest full-service advertising agency network. H2M has clients across the United States and is the only North Dakota agency in the network. WPI hand selects the agencies that apply to become a partner. Happy Harry’s Bottle Shop on 45th Street added 62 parking stalls, bringing the total parking to 187 stalls for customers. Samantha Everson was hired as business development assistant at HERO, Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization. Everson graduated from Concordia College with a bachelor’s degree in communication-public relations.

Hunter

Johnson

Kressin

McDaniels

Christien Bell was hired as a credit review associate; Andy Eckhoff and Marshall Erickson were hired as community bankers; Breeanna Fandrich was hired as a full-time marketing intern; Nate Hunter was named vice president; Pam Johnson was hired as a loan assistant; Nicole Kressin was hired as a Nelson Pierce corporate trainer; Sharon McDaniels was hired as senior customer service rep; Dennis Nelson was named director of credit risk; and Christina Pierce was hired as a part-time marketing intern at First International Bank & Trust. Bell brings seven years of customer service experience. Eckhoff earned an associates degree in finance from Alexandria Technical College and a bachelor’s degree in finance from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Erickson previously worked for AgCountry Farm Credit Services where he worked as a farm accounting intern. Fandrich is a senior at North Dakota State University where she is pursuing a degree in marketing. Hunter will continue to fulfill the role of branch manager in Moorhead but will also have the title vice president. Johnson brings 18 years of experience as a business banking assistant. Kressin brings a background in human relations counseling, communication, recruiting and teaching. McDaniels brings 28 years of experience in customer service. Nelson previously served as the credit review manager. Pierce is a senior at Minnesota State University Moorhead where she is pursuing a degree in international business.

Everson

Roz Leighton was hired as public affairs coordinator, and Chelsea Smith was hired as communications and office coordinator for the Home Builders Association of FargoMoorhead. Leighton graduated from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s Leighton Smith degree in agricultural economics. Smith graduated from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising. Stephanie Gramlow was hired as volunteer coordinator at Hospice of the Red River Valley. Gramlow earned her master of education degree in clinical mental health counseling from North Dakota State University.

Gramlow

Jonathon McCarthy was hired as community director for the March of Dimes North Dakota Chapter. McCarthy is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a major in business management.

McCarthy

24 | September 2014

Bunker

Purser

Warrey

Galvin

Seter

Lawson

Moe

Matt Bunker was hired as DS delivery specialist; Will Galvin was hired as network administrator; Mark Lawson was hired as project coordinator; Jason Moe was hired as technology advisor; Nathan Purser was hired as DS network copier installer/trainer & delivery specialist; and Shawn Seter was hired as network administrator for Marco, Inc.

Jonathan Warrey, vice president of sales at Marco, Inc., was awarded the 2014 Young Alumni Achievement Award by the University of North Dakota. The award was established in 2002 to recognize UND’s more recent, outstanding alumni as they embark on their chosen paths and strive for greatness. Recipients have demonstrated high levels of achievement in their chosen career, leadership ability and support for the University of North Dakota, as well as substantial commitment to the service of others. Marco, Inc., was recognized by Microsoft as the SMB Partner of the Year for the central region. Awards were presented in multiple categories with winners and finalists chosen from more than 200 organizations across the central region. Marco was recognized for providing outstanding solutions and services, as well as demonstrating excellent engagement. Shannon Simon was hired as an interior designer at Monica Hart Interior Design. Simon is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in interior design.

Koustrup

Sarah Koustrup, vice president of human resources for National Hospitality Services, spoke at the 2014 IHG People’s Summit in Minneapolis. The summit is an event for general managers and human resources representatives of Midwestern IHG properties. Koustrup was selected to be a part of the “Best Practices” panel at the event, along with other human resources representatives.

Tim Huckle was named president and CEO of Noridian Mutual Insurance Company. Huckle has been with the organization for 29 years. Jim Prochniak was hired as alcohol education coordinator for the North Dakota Safety Council. Prochniak joins the NDSC after 27 years with the North Dakota Highway Patrol, where he recently retired from his position as superintendent. North Dakota State College of Science was recently ranked 40th among twoyear colleges for the “100 Best Online Colleges for the 2014 Academic Year” by BestColleges.com.

Loff

Wehlander

Katie Loff was promoted to coordinator of closing services and Carmin Wehlander was promoted to director of client and listing services at Park Co. Realtors. Loff was previously a member of the client services team. Wehlander was previously a coordinator of listing services.

Plains Art Museum is launching a three-year project aimed at expanding opportunities, career development and recognition for Native American artists in the region. The project, Creativity among Native American Artists, will bring visibility to Native artists in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin through expanded exhibition, professional development and programming opportunities at Plains Art Museum. Tammy Enright has been promoted to senior vice president – business manager at Spectrum Aeromed. Enright has been with the company since 2008 and has been an instrumental member of the leadership team.

Simon

Myriad Mobile was selected by Google to serve as North Dakota’s example of a business that is utilizing the Internet to find and connect with customers.

Enright

Heidi Rolon was hired as an executive assistant to the CEO at Ulteig. Rolon brings more than 25 years of experience.

Rolon

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Member Mentions

Ashworth

Berg

Phillips

Peterson

Braden Ashworth was hired as branch manager; Scott Berg was hired as a relationship manager; Austin Phillips and Sloane Peterson were hired as branch leader development trainees; and Todd Scearcy was promoted to personal trust relationship manager at U.S. Bank. Ashworth is a graduate of Minnesota State University-Mankato with a bachelor’s degree in music industry and Minnesota State Fergus Falls Campus with Scearcy an associates degree in music science. Berg is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Phillips is a graduate of Concordia College with a bachelor’s degree in both business and music. Peterson is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Scearcy is a graduate of Concordia College with a bachelor’s degree in business and history.

Sweet Dreams Confections offers candy, homemade fudge, handmade chocolates, gourmet foods, old fashioned soda pops and retro candies. The store offers many Pride of Dakota products, as well as a full coffee bar. Soup and sandwich lunches are served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday and gelato is made fresh in-house.

Tanner Grunewald was promoted to a credit assistant with VISIONBank. Grunewald joined VISIONBank as a teller in 2013 and has been in banking since 2011.

Grunewald

Hoefert

Smith

Tracey Hoefert was hired as a personal banking officer, and Danielle Smith was hired as a customer care banker at Western State Bank. Hoefert has more than five years of banking experience. Smith has more than eight years of customer service experience and four years of banking experience.

Scott Fossum was hired as an audit associate at Widmer Roel PC. Fossum has a bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University.

Real Deals on Home Decor offers quality home decor at affordable prices, and the store is currently full of beautiful seasonal and everyday decor. The store has a wonderful selection of mirrors, lamps, clocks, accent furniture and artwork.

Fossum

26 | September 2014

Great Harvest handcrafts bread daily using only pure and simple ingredients. Each morning they grind premium whole wheat in the bakery and blend it with local ingredients from nature and no chemicals or additives.

Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You Prudential Premier Real Estate is proud to announce that soon we will have a new name: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties. That’s a good sign for the market and a great sign for you. Prudential Premier Real Estate is independently owned and operated and will join the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network, which has grown to nearly 32,000 agents and 949 offices in 46 states since its launch last September. Owner Tyrone Leslie and Broker Betsy Denis are ecstatic to join one of the world’s most trusted and respected corporations. This positive change will bring more resources for agents and opportunity for company growth, and therefore long term prosperity.

Business After Hours Thursday, October 16 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn Fargo

Join Us for a Scary Good Time at October Business After Hours Carmel apples, costumes and trick or treating await you at the October Business After Hours.

Join us at the Hilton Garden Inn for a spooktacular good time! The Hilton will be serving up Halloween-themed fun, so join the ghosts and ghouls for networking and frighteningly good appetizers! Participants are encouraged to participate in the theme but not required.

Sponsored by

2015

Metro Profile & Member Directory

Our 2,100 members and new community members use the profile and directory to find out what’s going on in the community and find the organizations where they want to do business.

Reserve your ad space today by emailing Tracy at tmeckler@fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.359.0527.

Business Relocating to Larger Space Prime Fargo Location

One Year Sublease Act Now $10/sq.ft. 8,500 to 14,000 sq. ft. available -Move in ready November 1st, 2014 HENTGES COMPANIES, INC.

Commercial Real Estate Since 1966 Richard Hentges (701) 238-5430 rahentges@aol.com

fmwfchamber.com | 27

Member Profile

Magic in the Mixture: TNT Kid’s Fitness and Gymnastics Academy Unlocks Gifts, Abilities In the eyes of Executive Director Kim Pladson, every child is a gift just waiting to be unlocked through experience and exploring. That’s why TNT Kid’s Fitness and Gymnastics Academy offers the perfect environment for all children of all abilities from ages 18 months to 18 years to be physically active as they explore the world around them.

TNT has focused on staff training so all programs and activities are suitable for children of varying ages and developmental abilities, and the organization has invested significantly in young professionals to help them prepare for the next step in their careers. “A young professional has to be just as fulfilled in their career as the children are within the program,” Pladson explained. “We focus on consistency and communication to empower our employees so they can provide the most valuable services to parents and children.” TNT opened in July 2006 and served 134 families that year; today, the organization serves 1,600 children each week. Pladson believes that growth is a direct reflection of the focus on young professionals and the excitement they bring. “Our directors have a passion to help kids feel the best they can when they walk in the door,” she said. Pladson created TNT’s programming with the help of parents, educators, donors, community partners and her own experience of being in a school system for 11 years where she saw a lack of physical fitness opportunities for children with special needs. TNT is only one of two facilities in the country to offer the programming it does. TNT is able to maximize donor dollars by sharing its space with other organizations and only charging for its four programs, which include: Recreation, Fitness, Special Needs and Competitive (USA Gymnastics for boys and girls). Programming revolves around the knowledge that brain development is acutely linked to physical activity. Directors tailor lesson plans to keep them consistent across all programs as well as age and ability appropriate. “We help kids problem solve in a way they will understand, and we use a lot of music to teach rhythm and movement,” Pladson explained. TNT partners with 17 schools in the area to allow children with special needs the opportunity to engage in physical fitness. In addition, preschools and after-school programs use the space. The adult program begins in the afternoon and offers adults with special needs the same opportunity. During the summer, TNT focuses on a camp-like setting where each week features a theme and gives children a chance to grow produce in the community garden, visit local swimming pools and prepare for the upcoming school year. Pladson said the wellness program TNT follows is modeled after the school’s so children can expect consistency whether at school or at TNT. For Pladson, success does not rest in the growth of the organization but rather the impact it is having on the individuals it serves. A framed newspaper article about TNT hangs prominently in her office, and she beckons to the photo of an exuberant, wheelchair-bound young woman bouncing on a trampoline. “When I see this,” she said, her eyes misting over, “that is success for me. You don’t even have to put a word to it.”

Learn More

You can read more about TNT Kid’s Fitness and Gymnastics Academy and its programs at www.tntkidsfitness.org or on the organization’s Facebook page.

28 | September 2014

Member Profile

2014 oice h berC Cham inner W

From Passion to Payout: The Success Story of Kory Anderson A recent advertising campaign tells us that great things start in American garages, naming companies like Amazon, Disney and Hewlett Packert.

Add Anderson Industries to that list. At the age of 22, Kory Anderson started the company, which now boasts sales of $16 million per year (and growing) and includes 110 employees. Anderson started his business doing portable welding and machine work for on-site repairs. He first started making foundry patterns as part of his steam building hobby. It didn't take long for the foundry to notice his skills and recruit him to start making patterns for them. That's when Anderson bought his first CNC machine - a computer controlled machining center - which allowed him to make 3D complicated patterns. Anderson didn't have any experience with a CNC machine but taught himself what he needed to know. At this point, Anderson had one employee and was still working out of his garage. That's when he bought the former KO Lee factory. When they first moved in, they were only using a fraction of the space which encouraged Anderson to continue growing. "I was always motivated to take up more of the building so it wasn't so empty," Anderson said.

Bell State Bank & Trust had this sign made for Anderson; it now hangs in the office.

One of Anderson’s biggest challenges has been starting a manufacturing company in the middle of an economic crisis. While companies were moving manufacturing in-house and firing employees, Anderson was looking to get his company off the ground, a task he accomplished by going after the specialty markets and doing the work that was too complicated for companies to do in-house. It worked. In 2011, Anderson made the decision to acquire All Service Manufacturing, expanding their business to Mapleton, North Dakota.

In 2010, Anderson took over as president of Horsch, LLC, a company his father began with the German company Horsch. Anderson saw the new challenge as an opportunity and Anderson Industries began doing a majority of the fabrication for the Joker line, a high-speed compact disc developed for Horsch. If you ask him what’s made him successful, Anderson gives a lot of credit to his employees. Two years ago, he came to the realization that being a “doer” wasn’t enough for his growing company, and he needed to become a “leader.” He set aside time each day to develop the leadership skills he needed to create an exceptional company culture. "It's more motivating for me to look at the number of employees we've grown to," said Anderson. "We want to provide for our team members and also help them develop to reach their full potential." Anderson believes his first responsibility is making his team members successful both personally and professionally. His team members must embody values like accountability, excellence, innovation, professionalism and integrity — the standards he holds himself to every day. When one of Anderson’s mentors asked him what his goal for the company was when he started, he said it was simple: “I want to double every year.” That’s exactly what he’s done, taking his company from a garage shop to a multi-facility, multi-million dollar operation.

Learn More

To learn more about Anderson Industries, visit www.anderson-industries.com.

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Welcome New Members

The Chamber encourages all members to conduct business with each other. Those listed below recently have made an important investment in their businesses and their professional careers by joining The Chamber. Please consider them for your personal and professional needs. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber! Berg Group 1711 Gold Drive South, Suite 130 Fargo, ND 58103 701.893.2817 Real Estate - Development Robbie Lauf Berg Group is a Fargo real-estate development company focused on creating innovative properties that improve the city it’s located in and the lives of its residents. Bottle Barn Veteran’s Blvd 3171 Bluestem Drive West Fargo, ND 58078 http://bottlebarnliquors.com Beverages - Liquors Joel Wold Recruiter: Scott Deutsch, Integra Telecom Bottle Barn offers one of the largest selections of wine, beer and liquor in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. Cash Wise Liquor Fargo 1414 34th Street South Fargo, ND 58103 701.282.2323 www.cashwise.com/liquor-ad-fargo Beverages - Liquors Tim Pausch Cash Wise Liquor offers a great selection of craft beers as well as a large selection of liquor, beer and wine. Center For Pain Medicine, P.A. 2829 University Drive South, Suite 201 Fargo, ND 58103 701.551.6980 www.centerforpainmedicinepa.com Physicians - Surgeons Majid Ghazi The center provides comprehensive treatment for patients with acute, chronic and cancer pain. The company utilizes medications, x-ray guided procedures, surgeries, physical therapy, psychological services and implantable devices such as pain pump and nerve stimulator to manage painful conditions.

30 | September 2014

Ellingson Companies 500 Ellingson Road Harwood, ND 58042 701.893.9030 www.ellingsoncompanies.com Construction Management Levi Otis Recruiter: Karen Harrington, Northridge Hospitality Management Ellingson Companies is a leading provider of agricultural drainage and trenchless construction solutions founded in 1970. The experience of their project managers, engineers and operational managers has allowed them to design, build and complete a wide array of projects throughout North America.

Maple View Memory Care 4552 36th Avenue South Fargo, ND 58104 701.478.8655 www.lifeatmapleview.com Health Care Services Jordyn Haider Maple View communities are changing the way the world views memory care and assisted living. With highly specialized staff and Montessori-based programming, Maple View has created an environment that nurtures independence, self-assurance and positivity in seniors and memoryimpaired individuals, as well as their loved ones.

FRSecure LLC 3487 University Drive South Fargo, ND 58104 952.467.8851 www.frsecure.com Information Security Robb Stiffler FRSecure is a full-service information security management company that protects sensitive, confidential business information from unauthorized access, disclosure, distribution and destruction.

McDonald’s Veteran’s Blvd 5640 23rd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58104 701.234.9040 www.mcfargo.com Restaurants Jim Knutson Since 1955, McDonald’s has been serving the world some of its favorite food.

JD Legal Planning 902 28th Street South, Suite 2 Fargo, ND 58103 701.364.9595 www.jdlegalplanning.com Attorneys Susan Johnson Dreth Recruiter: Samantha Gust, The Chamber JD Legal Planning is a law firm focused on estate planning, elder law, trusts, real estate, oil and mineral rights, probate, guardianship, business succession planning and estate tax minimization planning.

OTA 1100 First Avenue South Sioux Falls, SD 57105 605.413.8436 www.weareOTA.com Clubs - Organizations Hugh Weber Since 2009, OTA has served as a collaborative network for the region’s creative class, offering extraordinary experiences and engagements that educate, empower and serve as a catalyst for community-builders and change agents to improve the lives of all people living in MinnesOTA, North DakOTA and South DakOTA. Romo’s Tacos Downtown 118 Broadway North Fargo, ND 58102 701.364.9757 Restaurants Rodolfo Romo Recruiter: Jeannie Camarillo, Anne Carlsen Center Check out Romo’s Tacos for tasty, quality, authentic Mexican food at great prices and speedy service.

Sandy’s Donuts Downtown Fargo 300 Broadway North, Suite 102 Fargo, ND 58102 701.281.0430 www.sandysdonuts.com Bakeries Ann Olson Now you can enjoy the same great donuts in downtown Fargo at an improved coffee shop. Turn Key Construction 15292 Shore Circle South Lake Park, MN 56554 218.838.9766 www.turnkeyhomebuilders.com Home Builders Kim Abbott Turn Key is a family-run business that builds every home as if it where for a family member. With 35 years of experience, the company prides itself on quality and being present at every job site. Wells Fargo Insurance Services 406 Main Avenue Fargo, ND 58103 701.293.4351 Insurance Deanna Wierima Wells Fargo Insurance was named Best Insurance Broker in the U.S. by Global Finance in October 2013. The company helps you understand and manage the risks that could impact your profitability. For businesses and institutions of all sizes, Wells Fargo Insurance offers access to insurance solutions and consulting services in the following core areas: employee benefits, risk management, property and casualty, professional risk, international, private risk, special risk and industry specific risks.

Looking to do Business?

Check out our online directory at www.fmwfchamber.com to search our full list of 2,100 member businesses. Has your business moved or changed names? Send the information to thebridge@fmwfchamber.com so we can update our records.

September 2014 Community Calendar

Send your events to thebridge@fmwfchamber.com to see them on our community calendar!

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NY Kammermusiker In The Dakotas 216 Broadway North

Art And Social Practice Symposium Plains Art Museum

YWCA Cass Clay 31st Annual Chocolate Fantasy Event Holiday Inn Fargo

Gallery Exhibit: Barbarba Hatfield The Rourke Art Gallery Museum

Walk MS: North Dakota FARGODOME

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Fall Parade Of Homes

Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead

Parent Information & Registration Night Girl Scouts - Dakota Horizons

March Of Dimes Black Bib Affair

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Third Annual Remodeled Home Tour

Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead

Senior Of The Year Awards Dinner Hilton Garden Inn Fargo

We've Modernized Our Look

You may have noticed a few changes throughout The Bridge this month. We have incorporated changes across the publication but especially on the cover, page 2 and back page. We see The Bridge as a great resource for our members, and we are constantly striving to make it better. We'd love to hear your feedback on our new look. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please send them to thebrdige@fmwfchamber.com. Thanks for reading!

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Learning Opportunities

Dale Carnegie Course: Skills for Success

The Dale Carnegie Course begins on September 10 from 1:30 to 5 p.m. and September 11 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. This nine-week training meets one night a week and will power you to move far beyond your comfort zone as you stretch for and attain ambitious new goals. Recognized worldwide, this course will help participants master the capabilities demanded in today’s tough business environment. Learn to: §§ Enhance public and personal communication skills. §§ Become a more effective leader. §§ Display increased levels of courage, confidence and conviction. §§ Control excessive stress and worry. For additional information call 701.476.8811 or go online at www.northdakota.dalecarnegie.com.

Prepare for the Project Management Professional Certification PMP certified professions are high in demand in many different industries. The University of Mary will offer PMP certification preparation classes, starting September 18 and will run on Thursday evenings through November 13. Classes will be offered in Fargo and Bismarck. For class times and registration information, visit www.umary.edu/PMP. For more information, contact Continuing Education at the University of Mary at 701.232.7088. PMP is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.

Grow Your Career by Becoming a More Confident Public Speaker Do you wish you felt more comfortable and confident speaking in front of crowds? Then this is the workshop for you! From September 30 to October 14, join Tasha Rohlfs, Public Speaking Consultant Tuesday evenings at the University of Mary to begin the process of improving your public communication skills. This session will be offered in Fargo. For class times and registration information, visit www.umary.edu/publicspeaking . For more information, contact Continuing Education at the University of Mary at 701.232.7088.

Leadership Development Leadership Training for Managers begins Tuesday, October 7 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. This training meets one morning per week for seven weeks. Dale Carnegie Training is proud to offer participants the chance to: §§ Manage conflict and change. §§ Hold people accountable. §§ Learn effective coaching techniques. §§ Keep meetings on track. For more information call 701.476.8811 or go online at www.northdakota.dalecarnegie.com.

Leading at the Speed of Trust™ Accelerate performance by building leadership trust in the workplace. This interactive workshop from Franklin Covey engages leaders at all levels in the real work of identifying and closing trust gaps. This workshop is designed to help leaders: §§ Choose to make building trust in the workplace an explicit goal. §§ Learn how others perceive your trustworthiness from your personal tQ™ Report. §§ Change Trust Taxes to Trust Dividends, the benefits that come from growing trusting relationships. trainND powered by North Dakota State College of Science brings you this workshop every Tuesday, October 14 to November 4 from 1 to 5 p.m. To register or for additional information, call 701.231.6915 or visit www.ndscs.edu/training.

32 | September 2014

Metro Makes the News

Fargo, North Dakota and Midwest Continue Earning National Headlines North Dakota is the best state for women entrepreneurs, according to the fourth annual OPEN State of Women-Owned Business report, which was published in August. The state tops the list of those with the fastest growth in number, employment and revenues of women-owned firms since 1997. That’s just one of many headlines the region has received recently, and it’s exciting to see the national spotlight trained on an area of the country not frequently lauded.

More Recent Headlines

Last month, Forbes magazine announced that Fargo topped its list of best small places for business and careers, because the metro scored well in areas such as solid job growth, education, low unemployment and a growing economy.

“North Dakota’s entire economy is on fire thanks to the fracking boom, but Fargo, located on the Minnesota border 300 miles away from the nearest oil well, is much more than just a product of the Bakken Shale,” wrote Kurt Badenhausen. “The Fargo metro, which stretches to the Minnesota city of Moorhead, is the industrial center of southeastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. Jobs in healthcare, education and tech are surging and 55% of the population is younger than 35.” Education is paramount in the upper Midwest, as evidenced by Lumina Foundation’s report. Minnesota landed in second place with North Dakota in fourth place on a list of states ranked on the proportion of young adults with at least a two-year college degree. Iowa came in sixth. The article also highlighted that the states with well-educated young residents also offer jobs in growing industries like health care, science and technology. In June, the Star Tribune wrote about Fargo’s downtown as a “vibrant community of artists, tech entrepreneurs, college kids and possibilities.” James Gartin with the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corp. was interviewed for the article, and he talked about the incredible energy and growth in the city. The Plains Art Museum received publicity earlier this summer by landing on The Culture Trip’s annual list for its broad permanent art collection and its 10 annual temporary shows. The article also pointed out that the museum offers a massive 12-panel oil painting in its atrium as well as additional galleries within the Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Center for Creativity.

Keynote Kristen Hadeed! Save Time

Save Money Oct. 12-13, Bismarck

trainingnd.com

fmwfchamber.com | 33

Chamber Around Town

Ribbon cuttings are led by the Public Relations Ambassadors, a group of dedicated volunteers who help Chamber members celebrate their business accomplishments. If you would like more information on ribbon cuttings, visit www.fmwfchamber.com or call Gail at 218.233.1100.

CASH WISE LIQUORS Grand opening on July 2 1414 34th Street, Fargo www.cashwise.com

CHURCHES UNITED FOR HOMELESS New location celebration on July 8 315 34th Street North, Moorhead www.churches-united.org

Z!NG Grand opening on July 14 3241 42nd Street South, Fargo www.zingdinner.com

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RICK ELECTRIC 50-year anniversary on July 2 3010 24th Avenue South, Moorhead www.rickelectric.com

RIVERVIEW CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Grand opening on July 8 3505 Eighth Street South, #6, Moorhead www.riverviewchiromoorhead.com

HERITAGE HOMES Grand opening of design studio on July 15 1815 38th Street South, Fargo www.heritagefargo.com

Chamber Around Town

AVAIL PSYCHOLOGICAL AND ADDICTION SERVICES, PLLC

SKATELAND

Grand opening on July 15 112 University Drive North, Suite 200, Fargo www.availpsych.com

DAKOTA FLUID POWER INC.

New ownership on July 22 3302 Interstate Boulevard South, Fargo www.sk8nd.com

TOWN & COUNTRY CREDIT UNION

New location celebration on July 25 2210 Main Avenue West, West Fargo www.dakotafluidpower.com

New location celebration on July 29 5181 38th Street South, Fargo www.townandcountry.org

Brilliant Talent, Vibrant Careers

Fargo 701 298-8300

Bismarck 701 250-1111

We’re Spherion®, Red River Valley’s job search experts. We’ve been serving the professional placement needs of Cass and Clay Counties for 20 years! Gaining the attention of top employers in our area is not so challenging when you have a workforce partner who knows them personally. From mid-level careers to the executive suite, Spherion places professionals in accounting, finance, engineering, legal, HR, technology, sales, marketing and non-clinical healthcare roles. In our business, it’s all about who you know. Gain a local career advantage—call Spherion!

Minot 701 839-7660 www.spherion.com

fmwfchamber.com | 35

Bridge the

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

September 2014 Chamber Events

11 16

The Fourth Annual Meeting Noon to 1:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo

YPN: Tips & Tricks of the Business Traveler 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

17 25

Military Leadership Lessons for Corporate America

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

YPN 10 Year Anniversary Celebration 5:30 p.m. Cambria Suites

Spotlight on You | American Crystal Sugar Company

Community Builders

36 | September 2014