thetheApril 2016 | Vol 19 | No. 8

Bridge

Award designed by Office Sign Company

2 | April 2016

Board of DirectorsJon Riewer Eventide Senior Living Communities

Chair of the BoardJudd Graham Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Chair ElectSteve Swiontek Gate City Bank

TreasurerDoug Restemayer D-S Beverages, Inc.

Immediate Past ChairThomas Astrup American Crystal Sugar Company Member at LargeBernie Dardis Indigo SignworksKyle Dorow Essentia HealthChuck Driscoll Red River RefrigerationJodi Duncan Flint Communications, Inc.Don Gronke State Farm InsurancePeggy Kennedy Minnesota State Community and Technical CollegeMichelle Kommer Western State BankNorm Leslie National Hospitality ServicesMark Nisbet Xcel EnergyJeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

Committee ChairsAgribusiness David BergAmbassador Cora TurnerMember Relations Ambassador Jill ChristopherPublic Relations Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River ValleyBusiness Training Dennis Cooley North Dakota State UniversityLeadership FMWF Brianne Hoffman Bobcat Company/DoosanMilitary Affairs Brian Shawn American Red Cross - Red River Valley ChapterPublic Affairs Jim Roers ROERSYoung Professionals Leslie WoodNetwork Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier PropertiesWomen Connect Pam McGee Minnesota State University Moorhead

Chamber StaffCraig Whitney President/CEOJim Parsons Vice President of Finance/OperationsJulie Doggett Information Systems AdministratorDarren Dunlop Business Development ManagerTyler Fischbach Communications & Publications InternSamantha Gust Professional Development CoordinatorAmanda Hofland Marketing and Communications ManagerStephanie Jensen Graphics and Publications CoordinatorTracy Meckler Membership & Advertising Sales ManagerElly Peterson Government Affairs & Advocacy CoordinatorTracy Powell Director of Events & ProgramsBobbi Jo Rehder Events CoordinatorMickayla Thompson Membership Relations CoordinatorSara Vollmer Administrative Services CoordinatorJulie Yourczek 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.

The Chamber MissionThe Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through advocacy, education and engagement.

The Chamber VisionThe Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business community and members.

The Chamber Objective § Through effective public policy, foster an environment of

economic growth. § Grow jobs and attract investment. § Achieve organization excellence to best serve members. § Provide bold and visionary leadership throughout the region.

4 Call for PresentersDetails on this fun awards ceremony celebrating businesses

12 Leadership FMWFCheck out where our class went in March and how to get involved

6 Eggs & IssuesUpcoming events and a recap of March’s talk on the Minnesota DNR

5 ChamberChoiceWhich businesses are candidates in our fun awards competition

14 Women ConnectDetails on upcoming events and a recap of February and March

8 Business TrainingUpcoming events and a recap of Learning to Lead

11 Economic Outlook ForumGet the highlights of the regional and national economy here

24 Member ProfileGo behind the scenes at Sazerac Alley, Boiler Room & Barbacoa

21 YPNUpcoming event information and the YPN one to watch

22 Member SpotlightLearn more about Dress for Success

27 Member NewsRead about recognition from our member companies and latest company news

33 New MembersFind out which organizations have recently joined The Chamber

34 Member Celebrations & Ribbon CuttingsWhich companies had recent groundbreakings, grand openings and more

35 Calendar of EventsGet the rundown on Chamber and community events taking place in April

Table of Contents

Ad Index

19 YEA!Highlights from our inaugural Investor Panel Shark Tank event

Knight PrintingMarco Midco National MS Society NDSU Research & Tech Park Network Center Pro ResourcesSanford Starion Financial Talecris Plasma Resources TMI Hospitality

ArvigBoulger Funeral HomeCentral MN Credit Union Cole Papers, Inc. Eide Bailly Essentia HealthFirst International BankThe Forum Games Galore Indigo SignworksJ&M Printing

209232633311727133316

97252032232732133234

11 24

fmwfchamber.com | 3

Announcing a New Agribusiness Committee I am incredibly proud and excited to announce the formation of a new Agribusiness committee here for The Chamber.

Agriculture is, and always has been, an extremely important and integral part of our region’s economy. Today, the industry faces many challenging issues as they compete in the global market. We oftentimes forget the far-reaching impact the ag community has on all of us and on so many of our local and regional businesses.

As an extension of The Chamber’s public policy efforts, our goal with this new committee is to bring together a collective voice of businesses and leaders in the ag sector. This is The Chamber’s ninth committee, and we are eager to get to work. The first meeting was held March 8 with close to 40 people in attendance. The committee has established the following mission and vision.

MissionTo promote the strong impact that the agriculture industry has on the Red River Valley while serving as a bridge to engage business leaders from across the community in the evolving agriculture market.

ObjectiveThe Agribusiness committee will be implemented to create an awareness of the impact of agriculture throughout the Red River Valley. The committee will promote agriculture and agri-business for similar relationships with businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead, West Fargo area. The formation of this committee will focus on an understanding of the value of agriculture to the economy, particularly in water, farming, and other ag-related industries.

David Berg, president and CEO of American Crystal Sugar, will serve as the committee’s first chair. American Crystal Sugar Company is a world-class agricultural cooperative that specializes in sugar and sugar-based products and byproducts. We feel especially grateful to have a man of David’s stature stepping up to chair this new venture in its inaugural year. There is perhaps no better person to lead this committee as his over 20-year commitment is nearly unparalleled.

The Agribusiness committee is still open to additional participants, and all employees of Chamber member companies are welcome to join. Meetings are held at 8 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at The Chamber office.

As the ninth Chamber committee has kicked off, I want to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for everything that all of our committees do. Each committee is made up of a group of individuals who graciously give their time and talents to serving the mission of The Chamber and the betterment of the business community. We simply couldn’t do what we do without each and every one of them. The rest of our committees are listed below.

As with the Agribusiness committee, all employees of Chamber member businesses are welcome to get involved through the work of our committees. For more information on any of these opportunities, please visit us online or give us a call.

Message

Ambassadors - Member Relations | Ambassadors - Public Relations Business Training | Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo | Military Affairs

Public Affairs | Women Connect | Young Professionals Network

Craig Whitney President & CEO

The Chamber

Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography

4 | April 2016

Call for Presenters

Share Your Expertise at Business Training or Women Connect in 2016-17 Do you have expertise that other businesses need to hear? Want to make valuable connections and build credibility? Speaking at a Chamber event is a great way to do just that. If you’re interested, please apply today! Any employee of a Chamber member business is invited to submit a proposal.

Applications are now open and close May 31. Apply online at fmwfchamber.com, or contact Bobbi Jo with questions at 218.359.0525.

The Business Training series enhances the success of our community’s businesses, large or small, through top-notch presentations at affordable prices to provide valuable professional development and strengthen your work force. Topics have covered sales, culture, leadership, customer service and more. What do YOU get by presenting?• Two complimentary guest passes to your session.• Promotion of your session and company on The Chamber

website, in our monthly Bridge newsletter and in our weekly eBridge e-newsletter.

• Electronic invitation to 10,000 recipients.• Exposure to a crowd of top business professionals.

If your topics are edgy, empowering and inspiring, Women Connect wants you! We want presenters who can engage the crowd and share practical advice for navigating life as a professional woman while sharing positive messages you simply can’t get elsewhere. We reached about 2,500 people in our first year alone! Topics have included mentoring, leadership, relationships in the workplace, balance and embracing change.

What do YOU get by presenting?• Two complimentary guest passes to your session.• Promotion of your session and company on The Chamber

website, in our monthly Bridge newsletter and in our weekly eBridge e-newsletter.

• Electronic invitation to 10,000 recipients.• Exposure to a crowd of roughly 300 area women.• The opportunity to connect deeper with regional female

professionals and bring light to the topics that matter!

onnectomen. Business. Life.

BusinessTraining

ChamberChoice

2015 Winner ChamberChoice

2015 Winner

ChamberChoice

2015 Winner

ChamberChoice2015 Winner

ChamberChoice

2015 Winner

ChamberChoice

2015 Winner

ChamberChoice]#ChamberChoice16 2016

Spotlight on ChamberChoice Candidates

Get ready to walk the blue carpet, celebrate amazing local businesses and laugh along with us at the 2016

ChamberChoice Awards. Back to emcee is James Cunningham. Be sure to vote for the People’s Choice Award

online May 2 through May 16.

It is with immense pride that we announce the following as candidates for the 2016 ChamberChoice Awards.

Congratulations to all of you on this achievement!

Absolute Marketing Group

AE2S

Alzheimer’s Association MN-ND Chapter

North Dakota Regional Centers

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Premier Properties

Brady Nash - BNG Holdings, Inc.

Children’s Miracle Network

Choice Financial

Cornerstone Bank

Josh Teigen - Crossfox Innovation

Dabbert Custom Homes LLC

Discovery Benefits, Inc.

Dorothy Day House of Hospitality

Dress for Success Red River Valley

Easter Seals Goodwill ND, Inc.

Eide Bailly LLP

Express Employment Professionals

Family Wellness LLC

Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

Gate City Bank

Nick Killoran - Great North Insurance

Erik Hatch - Hatch Realty

Healing Arts Chiropractic

Tyrone Leslie - Heritage Homes, LLC

Homeward Animal Shelter

JLG Architects

Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity

Matt’s Automotive Service Center

MidcoMODE

Mortenson Construction

National Hospitality Services, LLC

New York Life Insurance Company

Ryan Fritz - Office Sign Company

Precision Diagnostic Services, Inc.

Rape & Abuse Crisis Center

of Fargo-Moorhead

Ronald McDonald House Charities

of the Red River Valley

Paula Klein - Smartt Interior Construction

Spotlight Media Inc.

Eric Newell - Stoneridge Software

TMI Hospitality

Trinity Schaff - TrinSpin Inc.

TrueIT

Western Products, Inc.

Western State Bank

YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties

YWCA Cass Clay

ChamberChoice] Awards Luncheon] May 20 | Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Presented By

Award Sponsors

To ReigsterVisit fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100

6 | April 2016

The State of the Agriculture Economy in Our Community

Technological Change and Implications for the Red River Valley and the North Dakota University System

Agriculture has been the backbone of our economy for centuries. The Red River Valley has a rich history of leading the world market as an innovative and pioneering agriculture region. With that being said, the agriculture market is in an interesting state. Great crop yields but a slowdown in the agriculture market provides farmers, lenders and agribusiness institutions with a tough predicament. Please join us as we hear from panelists who will examine this issue: Lynn Paulson, senior VP & director of agribusiness development, Bell State Bank & Trust; Mike Krueger, founder and president of Money Farm; and Andrew Swenson, extension and farm resource management specialist at North Dakota State University.

Make sure to attend and hear all the details of The Chamber’s new Agribusiness committee!

Technology is changing at an accelerating rate. Unmanned systems are beginning to populate the skies above battlefields and big data is changing entire social structures. Cybersecurity threatens companies with financial loss, intellectual property theft, brand/reputation damage, shareholder loss and legal liability, among many others. Our speaker, Dr. Mark Hagerott, is the North Dakota University System (NDUS)chancellor, former distinguished professor of cybersecurity at the Naval Academy, a Rhodes Scholar and was named a “Top Military Thinker” by Foreign Policy’s Future of War Survey. He will discuss the challenge of changing technology and participate in a discussion of how the NDUS, North Dakota State University, University of North Dakota and the Red River Valley business community can effectively engage on this issue. Interim UND President Ed Schafer and NDSU President Dean Bresciani will also provide commentary.

Tuesday, April 5 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

Tuesday, May 3 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

Paulson

Hagerott

Schafer

Bresciani

Krueger

Andrew Swenson

#FMWFEggs

Registration (includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $30 at the door Non-Members: $35 in advance | $40 at the doorRegister at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Registration (includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $30 at the door Non-Members: $35 in advance | $40 at the doorRegister at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Advocacy

Presenting Sponsors

Supporting SponsorsBeverage Wholesalers, Inc. | Cornerstone Bank | Home Builders Association of Fargo Moorhead

KLJ | Moore Engineering, Inc. | Wells Fargo

fmwfchamber.com | 7

Advocacy

Minnesota’s DNR Environmental Impact Study InformationAs the metro continues to grapple with securing permanent flood protection, we took the opportunity at Eggs & Issues in March to hear more about one key next step for the project: the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources final Environmental Impact Study. Greg Nelson, Northwestern regional director for the DNR, joined us to explain the process and provide an update. Among the information that Nelson shared, in total, the DNR received comments from 211 individuals, for a total of about

830 total comments, on the issue. Of those comments, most revolved around five key areas: the purpose and need being too narrow; agricultural impacts not fully described; proposed mitigation for cemetery impacts not sufficient; land use and regulation section of the EIS not adequate; and the use of expert opinion elicitation panel hydrology. Nelson also offered commentary on how specifically the DNR is looking into each of those concerns. According to Nelson, the estimated release

of the final EIS is late spring 2016. Nelson also took questions from the audience, facilitated by Mark Nisbet of Xcel Energy, to address more concerns from audience members. As the conversation circled back to flood protection, Nelson stated: “I don’t think there’s any argument that there needs to be better flood protection for the Fargo Moorhead area. It’s an important economic driver for the region. Flood damages mount continually, and there needs to be permanent protection.”

Meet Our Enterprise Network TeamWe’ve assembled some of the best in the technology industry to help enterprises take their business to the next level.

With an average tenure of 15-20 years of advanced technology experience, our top-notch enterprise network team

has what it takes to help solve your complex technology challenges and uncover faster and better ways for enabling

all lines of your business.

Our performance-driven approach empowers you to make the most of your technology investment. That’s working

smarter. Learn more and get empowered at marconet.com.

marconet.com #mpowering taking technology further

smarter technology

8 | April 2016

Supporting SponsorsGOLDMARK Property Management | Network Center, Inc. | Wanzek Construction, Inc.

Program Sponsors

Connecting with customers has changed dramatically over the past few years. Stop wasting time and resources on messaging that doesn’t click. By aligning your marketing and technology efforts with your customers’ values and expectations, you’ll create a lasting and meaningful experience.

But where do you start? Get to know who your customers really are – and what they really value – and put them at the heart of every decision. During this session, Eric Dukart, COO, and Johnathon Rademacher, CTO, at Sundog, will show you the tools and technology to identify, understand and better engage with your customers for bigger and better results.

As COO, Dukart leads and develops Sundog’s product and service strategies. He has extensive expertise in customer insights, marketing automation, CRM, business operations and leadership. As CTO, Rademacher drives technical direction and implements solutions to achieve business goals at Sundog. He has more than 15 years of experience in the IT industry and has developed extensive expertise in mobile and cloud solutions.

As employees, it’s time to connect our professional goals to social media. We each have unique roles and voices in our organizations. Social media can amplify our voices and help us achieve our professional goals in new and exciting ways. Kirsten Jensen, director of digital marketing at Onsharp, will present at this

Business Training session that will be packed with examples to demonstrate the powerful voice of the social employee.

Get inspired to unlock the content unique to your role and experience. As employees, we interact with customers every day. There are lots of little moments to be thankful for in partnerships and teamwork. Lending your voice to social media unlocks content at the moment of experience. You’ll walk away from this session with a list of “tweetable moments” to look for in your everyday work.

You’ll also learn how to enable social employees in your organization and what the important questions are to consider when creating a culture that supports social employees. Get tips for listening to your team and sharing what they’re saying, as well as what should be included in a training program.

#FMWFTraining

Wednesday, May 11 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn

Tuesday, April 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo

Registration (includes lunch)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the doorNon-Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the doorRegister at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Registration (includes lunch)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the doorNon-Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the doorRegister at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Business Training

Know Your Customer and How They Buy, So You Don’t Get Ubered

The Power of Being a Social Employee

Dukart & RademacherJensen

fmwfchamber.com | 9

Business Training

Leadership Tips from a Respected Leader at March Business Training This past month, Business Training attendees got the pleasure of hearing tips from one of our region’s most respected business leaders, Steve D. Scheel, current chairman of SCHEELS. Speaking on the topic of leadership, he shared with the crowd some of SCHEELS’ own proven tricks based on their leadership model that involved cultivating leaders rather than managers. Scheel recalled a conversation with his father years ago in which they discussed this very idea. “We can only grow this company by growing our people,” he said. “…I believe in the last decade, it’s been our leadership that’s the reason for our success. But it’s also our leadership that is our Achilles heel.” With a model very different than other stores, SCHEELS gives its stores the autonomy to make the best decisions for their own stores, trusting they know the best for their location and market. “People flourish under great leadership,” he said. He also shared his own five favorite books on leadership and some of the nuggets of wisdom from them. The five books were: Some of the other ways SCHEELS ensures its success includes dressing the part, leading with intensity and integrity, hiring for attitude and training for skill, teaching with enthusiasm to help others enjoy their work, holding high expectations and expecting those they lead to become empowered, being on time for every meeting, greeting and smiling at every customer, and being honest. “Every little thing adds up to the growth of the company,” he said. “We have a philosophy at our company no matter what we’re doing,” Scheel said. “We either get better or we fall behind. There’s no plateau.”

701.235.1121 • 888.526.112116 South 16th Street • Fargo, NDwww.knightprinting.comPassion. Quality. Innovation.

What’s your idea?

Plant the seeds with Knight Printing,watch your business grow.

1 2 3 54by Jim Collins by Larry Bossidy

and Ram Charan by Tom Morris by John C. Maxwell by John C. Maxwell

10 | April 2016

Goes

2016

Goes

2016

Teams & teebox sponsors are sold out. To be put on the waiting list, call Bobbi Jo at 218.233.1100. Hole sponsors are still available! Contact Darren at 218.233.1100 for more information.

Chamber Challenge Golf Outing Wednesday, July 13 | Noon to 7 p.m.Edgewood Golf Course

Leader Board Sponsor

Premier Partners - Making a Difference in Our Metro The Chamber draws on the diverse strengths and expertise of more than 2,100 public, private and non-profit member firms to advocate for a pro-business environment, educate the professional community and engage members in the pursuit of a prosperous region.

Premier Partners are an elite group of businesses that recognize the importance of economic development efforts and make a significant commitment to the health of the region. Premier Partners give above and beyond their initial Chamber dues investment through sponsorship and marketing dollars to support the work we do. Premier Partners fall into two levels: Community Builders and Business Builders. In return for this increased support, Premier Partners receive a unique set of privileges and benefits that enhance their business. From increased exposure to heightened networking, Premier Partners gain access to an extensive network of businesses and professionals.Through partnership with The Chamber and their fellow members, Premier Partners make a positive difference for our metro. We are proud to call the following businesses our Business Builders

American Crystal Sugar Company | Avis Rent a Car | Beverage Wholesalers, Inc. | Choice Financial Consolidated Communications | Dawson Insurance | Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management | JLG Architects KFGO – The Mighty 790 | North Dakota State College of Science | NDSU Research and Technology Park | Network Center, Inc.

New York Life Insurance Company | ROERS | Vogel Law Firm | West Acres Development, LLP

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

See the back page for the logos of our Community Builders.

For More Information

fmwfchamber.com | 11

EOF

At the annual Economic Outlook Forum on February 25 at the Holiday Inn Fargo, nearly 600 individuals gathered to hear all about regional and global economic trends. Craig Whitney, Chamber CEO, opened the forum. Scott Handy of Cass County Electric, the event’s presenting sponsor, also gave a brief welcome to attendees. Dan Staller, market president at Starion Financial, took a moment to share the results of our recent FMWF Business Conditions Survey, in which Chamber member companies provided feedback about how the economy has affected their business. Survey results showed that...• The top factor positively affecting

performance was a domestic sales increase, which was second last year.

• The top factor negatively affecting performance was a domestic sales shortfall, which was #4 last year. Interestingly, last year’s top factor of higher operating costs, jumped down to the fourth spot this year.

• Expectations about the national economy compared to the prior year was down. Last year, 54% felt better about it; this year only 34%.

• Regional expectations compared to the prior year were even worse. 75% felt better last year; this year only 43% did.

• However, expectations about each person’s business stayed just about the same.

• For the past four years, the same issue has remained at the top for adversely impacting business: difficulty attracting and retaining qualified employees. “Seventy one percent of us are having a hard time finding employees,” Staller said.

• On whether the FMWF infrastructure is adequate for future expansion, 55.2% said yes. “So what kind of work needs to be done to maintain our growth expectations in the region? Number one reason was expansion of affordable housing. This will continue to be an issue,” Staller said.

• 43% of Chamber members said that the drop in oil prices impacted their businesses, whether positively or negatively.

Jim Paulsen, chief investment strategist at Wells Capital Management, was next up as the keynote speaker to explain some national trends.

His comments were seemingly in line with what Staller touched on locally. “The list today of things to worry about is about as bad as it’s been since the Eurozone prices,” he said. “Fears are higher than they’ve been for the last several years.”

However, his gut feeling is that we’re not going to have a recession any time soon. “I think the increase in fears is doing some good things in the financial markets.”

“We’re struggling with the slowest-growing recovery ever is mainly because you guys got old,” Paulsen said to a chuckle from the crowd.

Other reasons he cited for low risk of a recession is because we’ve returned to full employment, balance rates and current interest rate and money supply policies. The last reason? “I find that the biggest risk to the next recession is when players get overly confident. When we get confident and we’re in a big boom, we start to do really stupid things. None of that is evidenced.”Transitioning to growth in the U.S. and abroad, he stated that he doesn’t believe that we’ll have rapid growth anywhere soon, but does think we’ll have a synchronized balance in 18 months. Paulsen explained that there are five forces for U.S. growth:• Credit creation• Better household world• Capital spending cycle still coming• Housing starts rising another 50%• Better growth abroad Talking about fiscal stimulus and economic fear, Paulsen says that looking around the globe, it’s clear that this is not just a U.S. phenomenon. The Eurozone volume has just collapsed, he said. This is an across the board, across the world issue. Some other themes Paulsen discussed included China’s economy, commodity prices, income distribution, trade value of the U.S. dollar, crude oil, inflation, stocks and more. It was a highly insightful presentation, and attendees walked away learning what’s really going on around the metro and the world, with Paulsen’s (oftentimes humorous) analysis of it all. You can find the full FMWF Business Conditions survey report online at fmwfchamber.com.

Economic Outlook Forum Looks at Local & National TrendsNearly 600 gather to hear recent economic trends

I think we’re going to lift productivity over the next few years, which may

result in elongating this recovery into the longest one in post-war history. One of the reasons we’ve got a good shot is

because it’s growing so slow, and when you have a slow-growing recovery,

you don’t have excesses. – Jim Paulsen

“

12 | April 2016

Leadership FMWF

Looking for Leaders! LFMWF Program Applications are Open Now!If you want to grow both personally and professionally, and believe in giving back to your community, then we invite you to join the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo program! This 10-month program runs August through May and meets once per month at various locations throughout the community, along with other special events. You’ll participate in fun events, special talks and tours and work on team projects, all while building lasting connections, learning more about FMWF and developing your own leadership role.

Applications open on April 4 and close on May 26. You can apply at fmwfchamber.com/LFMWF.

For more information, contact Sam Gust at sgust@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0529.

Busy March for the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Class Starting the day off at the West Fargo City Commission Chambers, the Leadership class gave their final update on how their Community Change Initiatives have been progressing. Next month, they will be presenting on their successes, challenges and outcomes to an audience made up of their supervisors, project stakeholders and other Chamber members. Once updates wrapped up, we started on our hidden gems tour with Josh Teigen and Cooper Bierscheid of Protosthetics sharing how they are changing the world of prosthetics, all before they turn 25. Next, we took a trip to the Sons of Norway for lunch and a slice of their famous rommegrot pie! Shifting gears, we headed over to the Red River SWAT Team where Lt. Ahlfeldt shared what it takes to be a member of their team, the average day on the job and how thankful they are for the supportive community they get to work in. Having visited locations in West Fargo and Fargo, we crossed the river to take a tour of Bytespeed. There we learned more about what it takes to be successful in the ever-changing world of computer technology. To finish the day, Evan Workin of the F-M Curling Club gave the class a private lesson, where we did our best to stay on both feet while throwing a few rocks.

For More Information

Program Sponsors

#FMWFLeadership

fmwfchamber.com | 13

Military Affairs

North Dakota Air National Guard has Nearly $100 Million Impact on RegionWe’re proud to have recently commissioned a study on the Economic Effects of the 119th Wing of the Air National Guard on the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metropolitan area. Conducted by North Dakota State University’s Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics researchers Dean A. Bangsund and Dr. Nancy M. Hodur, the study shows an overall impact of $97.1 million on the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metro. According to the study, the Air National Guard’s direct spending was about $51.9 million in the region, using an average of fiscal years 2014 and 2015, and including various inflation-adjusted figures. Of the

$51.9 million, $46.6 million was for payroll and $5.3 million was for procurement of locally supplied goods. The presence of the Air Guard supports 764 FTE jobs, creates $63 million in personal income, contributes $97.1 million value-added activity and generates $93.4 million in gross business volume. In addition, the Air National Guard was estimated to generate $600,000 annually in property tax and local option sales tax collections. With 425 FTEs, the 119th Wing is a major employer, within the top 35 in the metro area.

“Recently the 119th Wing of the Air National Guard received its 17th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA) during a ceremony at the Air National Guard Base in Fargo,” Air Guard Commander Colonel Kent Olson said. “While we are proud of what we contribute to our nation’s defense, we are equally proud of what we contribute to the communities in which we live and work. While our mission has changed over the years, we are still here making major contributions to the region’s economic life.” To view the full report, please visit us online at fmwfchamber.com.

Special OpsObstacle Course

Vertical Rush

Contact us for your corporate picnics and team building, block parties and backyard birthdays.

Also, our Party Zone offers all the fun of Games Galore Parties - indoors. Our Zone is fully furnished with a Big Screen TV, Pizza

OVens, Refrigerator & Three Inflatable Games.

Call Dave Lerud or Corey Heiser at 373-0104.

Make one decision easier

Let Starion finance the purchase or building of your new home.

• Freepre-qualification

• Easilyapplyonlinerightnow Visit starionfinancial.com/mortgage.

Member FDIC

Doug LeeMortgage Banker | 701-281-5628dougl@starionfinancial.comNMLS # 1117840

14 | April 2016

Change - Don’t Fear It; Embrace It! There is nothing more constant in life than change – from beginning to end, there is constant change. So why are so many people afraid of change, or resistant to it? We get comfortable and set in our routine and habits. We feel secure in our comfort zone. How

do we react when something happens to upset our comfort zone? New job, new boss, new husband, new child, new co-worker, new family members, etc. When we understand and accept the fact that change is constant, and nothing good or bad lasts forever, we are more apt to embrace change and enjoy the challenges and learning opportunities that come with it. Join Lisa Borgen, vice president of administration at American Crystal Sugar Company, as we discuss our experiences with changes in our lives, our careers, our families and ourselves. Also hear from Michelle Kommer, Western State Bank, and Kristi Ulrich, Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota. Hopefully you will discover the key to embracing changes both big and small in your personal and professional life. Change is opportunity to grow and learn. It is constant, so it’s better to roll with it than resist it!

Shattering Gender BarriersFour Generations of Women In Our Community A significant body of research shows that for women, the subtle gender bias that persists in organizations and in society disrupts the

learning cycle at the heart of becoming a leader. It’s not enough to identify and instill the “right” skills and competencies as if in a social vacuum. The context must support a woman’s motivation to lead and also increase the likelihood that others will recognize and encourage her efforts—even when she doesn’t look or behave like the current generation of senior executives.

Join us for an interactive panel discussion led by Tamara Anderson, team performance strategist at Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND, that will feature four generations of women in our community who have successfully shattered gender barriers to become successful by standing for what they believe, charting their own path and supporting other women to help them do the same. Representing the Boomer generation will be Margie Bailly, retired; representing GenX will be Chris Thompson, Microsoft; representing Millenials will be Michelle Killoran, SCHEELS; and representing GenZ or iGen will be Isabelle Chambers, a high school student. Panelists will share what it takes to break through gender barriers, how to go confidently in the direction of your dreams and take a stand for what you believe in and support others along the way.

RegistrationChamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

RegistrationChamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Tuesday, May 24 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m.Avalon Events Center

Tuesday, April 26 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m.Avalon Events Center

Please consider bringing new stuffed animals to donate to the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center.

Please consider briging household cleaning supplies to be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

BorgenAnderson

#FMWFWCWomen Connect

Presenting Sponsors

Supporting SponsorsAmerican Crystal Sugar Company | Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota | Bell State Bank & Trust | Bremer Bank, N.A.

Discovery Benefits, Inc. | Eventide Senior Living Communities | First International Bank & Trust | Gate City BankHeritage Homes, LLC/Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Premier Properties | Microsoft

Minnesota State University Moorhead | Network Center, Inc. | Otter Tail Corporation Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center | Vogel Law Firm | Western State Bank

fmwfchamber.com | 15

Women Connect

Leadership Lessons from Two Military Women At the February session of Women Connect, we heard from two military women who shared their incredible experiences with us and how it helped shaped them as leaders. Lieutenant Colonel Teresa Luthi McDonough and Major Penny Ripperger of the 119th Wing of the North Dakota Air National Guard, took attendees through their backgrounds, what brought them to the military and how they grew throughout those experiences. They touched on topics like the importance of mentoring, courage, communication styles, confidence and femininity. Once again, we thank the inspirational speakers, attendees and sponsors, and Avalon Events Center for a beautiful room and delicious dessert.

Changing the “Mean Girls” Label: March Women Connect At the March Women Connect, Jodi Duncan of Flint Communications tackled the topic of “mean girls.” Making the case that it’s a label that women can embrace rather than having a negative connotation, she said the misnomers of being a mean girl include being blunt, not sharing personal information, having an opinion, speaking up in meetings, not smiling enough and being confident and assertive. Duncan shared helpful tips such as formulating your own personal board of directors to support you and giving yourself compassion and credit. “Instead of considering ourselves mean girls, let’s use our own personal inputs and power to champion the women that are in your company, your profession and your community,” she said.

PUSH Groups Get Off the Ground We’re excited to see several PUSH groups starting to meet and develop valuable connections outside of Women Connect sessions. So far, 30 women have been placed in groups, 10-plus groups have started, and the Facebook group has almost 200 members. For more information, visit fmwfchamber.com/PUSH or email push@fmwfchamber.com.

Through my PUSH Group, I’ve been connecting with a great group of successful women on a regular basis. We discuss challenges and opportunities and hold each other accountable to reach our goals. It’s been a great experience and so much fun!

– Lisa Gulland-Nelson, VP Marketing & PR, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation

“

16 | April 2016

Save the Date for This Summer’s Competition!

Thursday, May 26 | 3:15 to 8 p.m. Alex Nemzek Hall, 649 17th Street South, Minnesota State University Moorhead

LET’S BUILD YOUR BUSINESS!

Rich Marasrmaras@jmprint.net701-730-1623

Austin Roederaroeder@jmprint.net701-680-1466

J & M Printing has worked with a number of engineering �rms throughout the region. We have what you need to help you build your business.

• Brochures • Direct mail• 2, 3 & 4-part forms • Variable data • Signage • Promotional products• Trade show materials and more

We’ve been in business for over 50 years and are ready to help your team!

A Top 400 U.S. Printing Company

for 2015 in Printing Impressions.

JMPRINT.NET • CONNECT FOR A QUOTE • 701-476-0311

Corporate Cup

Calling All Volunteers!Teams are sold out, but you can still get in on the action at Corporate Cup! 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 Sam at sgust@fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

Join the Facebook page at facebook.com/fmwf.corpcup to stay up-to-date on event announcements.

Presenting Sponsor

#FMWFCorpCup

fmwfchamber.com | 17

Budweiser Clydesdales

Come see the

Save the Date for This Summer’s Competition!

Thursday, May 26 | 3:15 to 8 p.m. Alex Nemzek Hall, 649 17th Street South, Minnesota State University Moorhead

Military appreCiation night at the redhawksJune 30 | 7 p.m.Newman Outdoor Stadium A celebration of our region’s military men and women.

Save the Date!

www.firstintlbank.com

For All Your Business Banking NeedsGreg Mastrud, West Fargo President 1350 13th Ave E • West Fargo, ND gmastrud@firstintlbank.com701-499-7604

0188_02-16

18 | April 2016

Don’t just PLAN for your future,

START it now!The Young Entrepreneurs Academy teaches 11-18 year olds

the skills they need to start and run their own successful business.

Please contact Tracy Powell at 218.359.0515 or tpowell@fmwfchamber.com. Or visit us online at fmwfchamber.com/YEA and facebook.com/YEAFargo.

Start a student, finish a CEO of your own company.For More Information

Sparks Innovation!of

fmwfchamber.com | 19

YEA! Investor Panel Shark Tank

From Headbands to Hoverboards, YEA! Students Pitch Ideas From headbands to hoverboards, samosas to social media, our first class of YEA! students finally got the chance to publicly announce their business ideas to the community and compete for funding in a Shark Tank-style event on March 16 at the Offutt School of Business. Dan Michaels, president of Dan Michaels Audio, served as emcee and kicked the evening off with a welcome, handing it over to Craig Whitney, who provided a background of the YEA! program and how this event came to fruition. Josh Teigen, a local entrepreneur who served as the class instructor for the year, told us about his own young entrepreneurial story, as well as an introduction to each of this year’s students. Each student gave an overview of their company and business plan, including start-up costs and monthly operating expenses, competitors, marketing plans, business goals and sales projections. Sydney Ulrich of Davies High School presented on Headbands for a Cure, which sells spandex headbands to help fund breast cancer research. Ameera Mire of Horizon Middle School presented on Ameera, which sells fashionable clothing to Muslim teens in the U.S. Dalad Oday of Moorhead High School presented on Samosa Empire, which produces and sells samosas. Keller Lee of Cheney Middle School presented on TailTraders, which is an app to sell tailgating spots for NDSU Bison games. Olivia Schroeder of Cheney Middle School presented on Pick-Pack Pantry, a meal kit delivery system for the FMWF area. Tanner Paler of West Fargo High School presented on Find Me, a GPS for bicycles so they aren’t lost or stolen. Josh Gronneberg of Discovery Middle School presented on EvoHover, a hovercraft with a unique propulsion design to make it more environmentally friendly. Mukai Selekwa of Davies High School presented on Webblen, a social media management website. Juanaiga Okugas of Davies High School presented on White Rabbit, which makes virtual reality games. After each presentation, the sharks were able to ask questions of the presenters to find out more information to help them decide how to divvy up the available funding. In the end, each student received varying amounts of funding, ranging from $300 to $2,400, and the big winner of it all was Mukai with Webblen. All of our young entrepreneurs have a very bright future ahead of them, and it will be exciting to see where their journeys take them. In the meantime, they all will proceed with their businesses, and Mukai can look forward to presenting Webblen at the YEA! semi-finals in Rochester, New York, in May.

Presenting Sponsor Program Sponsors

Supporting SponsorsBarbacoa | The Boiler Room | Concordia College | Eide Bailly LLP | The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead | Gate City Bank

La Quinta Inn & Suites | Mezzaluna | Microsoft | Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moore Engineering, Inc. North Dakota State University | Radio FM Media | Sazerac Alley | Starion Financial | TrueNorth Steel | Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

20 | April 2016

Treat Your Team

Save the Date for Treat Your Team Luncheon! Join us in celebrating those who make our everyday work so much easier and more organized. Treat your staff to lunch at the annual Treat Your Team Luncheon on Administrative Professionals Day. You can enjoy great food and a relaxing atmosphere, without the wait! All proceeds from the event will benefit the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!). Seating is limited, so register early at fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100 for more information.

Wednesday, April 27 Seatings at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Barbacoa, The Boiler Room and Sazerac Alley $17 per person

Sponsored by

DO IT’S SO EASY TO CUSTOMIZE BUSINESS> PHONE SYSTEMS

701.373.1001 | arvigbusiness.com

> THE POWER OF CHOICE

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. ©Arvig 2016

CUSTOM PHONE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS FOR ANY SIZE BUSINESS.

Your communications system is more than the lifeline to connect with colleagues, customers and vendors. It also projects an image, sending a message about the organization’s efficiency, productivity and professionalism. With an on-premise or cloud-based telephone solution from Toshiba, every location, every branch office—from a handful of users to thousands of users—can present an enterprise-class face to the world.

SATURDAY

APRIL 30Veterans Memorial

Auditorium

REGISTER TODAY! WALKMS.ORG855-372-1331

HAYLEY (L), DIAGNOSED IN 2015; LYNNE (R), DIAGNOSED IN 2008

THANK YOU TO OUR PREMIER NATIONAL SPONSOR

fmwfchamber.com | 21

#FMWFYPN

Off the Clock Wednesday, April 20 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Rustica Eatery and Tavern, 315 Main Avenue, Moorhead Join us for our April Off the Clock at Rustica Eatery and Tavern, where they boast a cozy neighborhood atmosphere in the historic 1898 Kassenborg Block building. Dedicated to offering high-quality, seasonally focused products, they have created the diverse menu based on traditional American fare with European influences. As usual, apps and networking are provided, but drinks are on your own.

Free. No registration required.

Volunteer Opportunity: Corporate Cup Thursday, May 26 | 2:30 to 8 p.m. Minnesota State University Moorhead, 1104 Seventh Avenue South, Moorhead Looking to score points for the event before the day even starts? Each team that provides a volunteer will be awarded automatic additional points. Is your company not competing, but you still want to be involved? You can volunteer as well! Contact Sam for more information at 218-791-5806 or sgust@fmwfchamber.com.

Volunteer Opportunity: Pitch, Hit and Run Saturday, April 30 | 9 to 11 a.m. Centennial Park, 2600 15th Avenue North, MoorheadFor the fifth year running, the YPN is hosting Pitch, Hit and Run, a free event that provides boys and girls the opportunity to work on skills in pitching, hitting and running through competitions, and we need your help! We are looking for volunteers to help register, run competitions and assist where needed. For more information, visit mlb.com/phr and to sign up to volunteer, contact Sam at 218.359.0529 or sgust@fmwfchamber.com.

Events

Program Sponsors

YPN Young Professionals Network

Off the Clock Sponsor

Brenna Naseer, Scheels Home & Hardware We are excited to announce Brenna Naseer as the April YPN One to Watch! Chair of the Member Engagement committee, Naseer has an infectious attitude that gets people excited to be part of her committee and the Young Professionals Network. Full of great ideas and excitement, we are thankful Brenna is involved with our organization!

One to Watch

22 | April 2016

Member Spotlight

Suggested by a fellow Chamber business for this spotlight, Dress for Success recently won the Power of 100 money and hosts several great events in the region. Here’s what else Amanda Even, program director, shared with us.

Q: In your own words, briefly share your company history and what you offer today. A: Dress for Success Red River Valley is a non-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Dress for Success worldwide was founded in 1997 and was brought to the Red River Valley in 1998 with a boutique in Hawley. Dress for Success Red River Valley has also had a second boutique in downtown Fargo since 2012. Today, Dress for Success has expanded to almost 150 cities in 20 different countries around the world. Q: How many employees do you currently have? A: Three Q: What makes your organization unique?A: We serve women from all walks of life. Many times women who have utilized our services reemerge as donors. Other women who were once donors end up utilizing our services. Over half of women we serve have attended college and most are mothers. Some have been staying at home with their children and just need support when reentering the workforce. Others are victims of domestic violence looking to put their lives back together. There have also been a number of retired women having to reenter the workforce due to excruciating circumstances.

Q: Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now?A: We are currently building our sponsorship and volunteer base. We have events throughout the year with corporate sponsorship opportunities and love to work with businesses for clothing and accessory drives. Whether it is in on an individual or team level, we always have plenty of volunteer opportunities from creating displays and organizing the boutique, to working with women as a personal shopper or in the Career Center.

Q: What is one thing you most want our area or other Chamber members to know about you? A: We are always looking for new partnerships and creative ways to expand our services. Over the past year we’ve doubled the number of women served and our program is continuing to rapidly grow. Q: What do you like most about being a member of The Chamber? A: The Business Training events are very informative with great presenters. Also, the networking opportunities through Women Connect and Business After Hours are unparalleled.

Q A&

Interested In Having Your Business Highlighted In This Section? We’ve redone the Member Spotlight section of The Bridge! This section now profiles various member companies with unique stories to tell. We’re looking for small businesses in current good standing with The Chamber that have a unique offering, interesting history or are just doing something spectacular. Tell us who you think deserves to be featured! Fill out the form at bit.ly/BridgeMS to suggest a business, or email ahofland@fmwfchamber.com.

fmwfchamber.com | 23

Save the Date

Business After HoursThursday, April 21 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Event Sponsor

#FMWFBAH

Innovative IT Solutions

Equipment lending centered on you.

Finance new or used equipment with rates as low as 3.25%APR.

Talk to Angie Baumann about your options today:218.779.4563 | mycmcu.org |

Centered on you.

Subject to credit approval. Membership qualification required. Rates based on past credit history. Does not apply to loans already financed with CMCU. Limited time offer. Other restrictions apply. Ask for details. Equal Opportunity

Lender. Federally Insured by NCUA

24 | April 2016

Behind three of the region’s most popular restaurants is a small team committed to offering a unique dining experience in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. Dan Hurder, CEO, and his business partner Christian D’Agostino, executive chef, run Great Plains Hospitality, the management company behind The Boiler Room, Barbacoa and the soon-to-be-opened Sazerac Alley restaurants. While all three establishments are new to the dining scene, the two men behind them certainly are not. Hurder started his career with the Hilton Garden Inn hotels, coming to the FMWF metro as general manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Fargo. After figuring out he wanted to work for himself, Hurder’s first business venture was the purchase of The Otter Supper Club and Lodge in Ottertail, Minnesota, which he and D’Agostino still run today. Next was the purchase of a long-time downtown Fargo dining staple, Monte’s, in 2012, which only recently announced was shutting down to reopen and rebrand as Sazerac Alley. The next addition to their restaurant portfolio was The Boiler Room, which quickly became a favorite in downtown, and opened nearly two years ago, followed by Barbacoa, which opened in south Fargo in October 2015. Each establishment is equally delicious, while having its own unique identity and story.

The Boiler Room’s concept was created specifically to fit the space after they were approached by Kilbourne Group. Wanting to stray away from the typical “bar” or fine dining offering, Hurder explained that, “We started looking around at what we felt downtown was lacking, and it was that middle-of-the-road option. Clean, comfortable, casual, with good quality food at a reasonable price. We knew we wanted to work in the comfort food wheelhouse, but put our own unique twist on it.” Barbacoa was actually pitched as an idea from former Monte’s sous chef Ian Berry, who is now executive chef there. Boasting a Southwestern barbecue concept, Barbacoa offers a wide range of gluten-free options and perfectly paired bar menu to accompany the rich tastes found in their food.

Sazerac Alley (not yet open, but coming soon as of the time of publishing this article) will be inspired by New Orleans. Offering yet another experience you can’t get anywhere else in town, Hurder is hopeful that Sazerac Alley will resonate with FMWF diners. Capitalizing on both Hurder’s and D’Agostino’s prior experiences there, they’re confident they can bring the cuisine of New Orleans up north. “I think it’s a testament to what people’s dining expectations are,” Hurder said of the change. “We all work hard in our lives. You don’t want going out to dinner to also feel like work.”

Of all the dishes at each of the restaurants, Hurder says his favorites are the biscuits and gravy from Boiler Room because “they’re delicious and warm and comforting but a little spicy.” He’s also really excited to debut the char-grilled oysters at Sazerac Alley, which are cooked in their shells on the grill and topped with garlic butter and breadcrumbs. The latter will only be available at happy hour, and he hopes they become a hot commodity. While every day is different and dining trends are ever-evolving, Hurder says he pulls his motivation from his investment into the restaurants, in terms of time, energy and emotion. “I can’t imagine not doing everything we can to make sure that this succeeds.”

What’s most rewarding for him is simply seeing a full house. “It’s always awe-inspiring to see how many people have chosen to spend their time and money with their friends and family in your establishment, of all their options,” Hurder said. As for what’s next, Hurder said they’re not done growing their portfolio yet, though what is next is yet to be decided. He would like to get outside the FMWF market at some point. Ultimately though, “as long as I’m happy, I think it’s a success and I’m reaching my goals.”

Member Profile

A Tasty Trio: The Boiler Room, Barbacoa & Sazerac AlleyBehind the scenes at three of the region’s most popular restaurants

“We all work hard in our lives. You don’t want going out to dinner to also feel like work.

– Dan Hurder

“

fmwfchamber.com | 25

Let’s get to work.There are no “small” businesses.

If it’s your business, it’s big — simple as that. Go with Midco® and get to work making something great. Just like you, we’re driven by innovation, grounded by reliability and built for success at any size. Get the technology that takes you places. Contact us today.

1.800.888.1300 • Midco.com/Business

Internet | Networking | Phone | Cable TV | Advertising

© 2016 Midcontinent Communications. All rights reserved.

26 | April 2016

Member News CompaniesDakota Medical Foundation Members Elect New Directors; Honors Leaders with Star Awards Eric Monson is a newly elected director to the governing board of Dakota Medical Foundation. Monson is executive director of the Anne Carlsen Center. Sindy Keller, administrative division controller at Brandt Holdings, was re-elected to the governing board. Individuals elected as officers are: Dr. Susan Mathison, chair; Seth Novak, vice chair; Sindy Keller, secretary; Mike Warner, treasurer and finance/investment committee chair; Chris Kennelly, governance committee chair; and Dr. Richard Vetter, strategic platforms committee chair. Dr. David Clutter and Dr. Fadel Nammour join them on the executive committee. Dakota Medical Foundation presented Phil Hansen, business owner and NFL retiree; Kim Pladson, executive director of TNT Kid’s Fitness and Gymnastics; Minnesota Flyers Gymnastics, Eric Monson, CEO of the Anne Carlsen Center; Jason Markusen, principal at Legacy Elementary in West Fargo; Team Chip members and Stick it to Cancer leaders with Star Awards. The Star Award honors people or organizations who demonstrate exemplary leadership in impacting health in our region.

dogIDs Receives Employee Recognition Award from Tinypulse On February 9, dogIDs was recognized by TinyPulse as one of the Best Companies to Work For. dogIDs received this title for winning the “Tinypulse Employee Recognition Award” in the ECommerce and Retail industry. TinyPulse is an employee retention software that dogIDs uses on a weekly basis where they can get employee ideas or feedback and can encourage employees to recognize each other’s accomplishments.

Far From Normal Acquires Imager’s Supply Far From Normal has acquired Imager’s Supply. Both companies are licensed by Roland DGA, the world’s leading provider of wide-format inkjet printers for the durable graphics market. Imager’s Supply has locations in Indianapolis and Louisville, Kentucky.

Manston Slough Project Receives Engineering Excellence Award The American Council of Engineering Companies of Minnesota (ACEC/MN) recognized Houston Engineering, Inc. and other partners with the 2016 Engineering Excellence Award for the Manston Slough Restoration

project in the environmental category. The annual Engineering Excellence Awards competition recognizes engineering firms for projects that demonstrate an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement and value. This is the fourth award the Manston Slough project has received.

MinnKota Achieves Certification from NAID The National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) has recognized MinnKota Secured Document Destruction with its “AAA” Certification for the eleventh consecutive year. NAID’s “AAA” certification recognizes MinnKota for undergoing an audit and meeting all requirements for the security measures of its facility, employees, transportation vehicles and processes, including the actual destruction of documents.

Spaeth

HBA Announces 2016 Board of Directors, Officers The Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead is pleased to announce the officers of, and those members elected to, its 2016 board of directors: President Tom Spaeth, Accent Contracting; President elect Tyrone Leslie, Heritage Homes; Treasurer Dustin Murray, Dustin Murray Construction; Associate vice president Paul Krabbenhoft, Coldwell Banker First Realty; Secretary Robin Swanson, Superior Insurance; and Past president Clay Dietrich, Dietrich Homes, Inc. Krabbenhoft and Swanson were elected to serve second three-year terms on the board beginning this year. Gary Orth, Cornerstone Specialties, Inc., was elected to a second three-year term and the following members were elected to the board for a first term: Dawn Cruff, Green Team Realty, and Stephanie Lindemann, Revive Contracting LLC. The HBA held the board of directors and officer installation as part of its Member Meeting in January at the Radisson in Fargo.

Marco Hires Specialized Enterprise Network Team; Named Winner of the 2016 Bold Awards Marco announced the addition of a new Enterprise Network Team focused exclusively on providing business enablement technology solutions to enterprise businesses. The hires are

part of Marco’s growth strategy to expand its business by investing in highly experienced and technically competent specialists. The addition of the new team provides more depth to Marco’s growing roster of technology experts. Eight of the 10 new hires were former Cisco employees and include Sales Director Todd Erne; Account Managers Bill Peterson, Tom Gust, Jered Schock and Brett Dahlof; Solution Architects Steve John, Matt Erickson, Mike Burgard and Justin Jongbloedt; and Consulting Specialist Justin Bigger. Marco also announced that it is the recipient of the 2016 BOLD Award in the Middle Market Category, presented by the Minnesota Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth®. The program celebrates the corporate leaders and teams that are behind successful mergers and acquisitions, financing and extraordinary strategies that led to sustainability, remarkable performance and/or accelerated growth in 2015. All nominations were reviewed, ranked and awarded by a peer panel of judges representing the middle market Marco’s BOLD Move is that in October 2015, Marco was sold to Norwest Equity Partners after being an employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan for almost 30 years. This transaction created a significant realization of retirement assets for its ESOP participants. Following the transaction, the company remains as Marco, a privately-held company and all employees retained their jobs.

Leslie

OrthDietrich

Krabbenhoft

Lindemann

Murray

Cruff

Swanson

Your complete distributor for all your paper, plastic, janitorial, packaging, equipment & supply needs since 1918.

www.colepapers.com

fmwfchamber.com | 27

Member News CompaniesNDSU Researcher Earns Award for Game-Changing Wind Energy Study A North Dakota State University assistant professor is conducting research that could change the way the world gets its energy and put North Dakota at the forefront of a more eco-friendly national power grid. Nilanjan Ray

Chaudhuri has received a $502,810 National Science Foundation CAREER award to study an innovative system that could more reliably and efficiently integrate wind energy into the grid. The CAREER program recognizes junior faculty members for outstanding research, excellent teaching and the ability to combine education and research to further the mission of their university. Ray Chaudhuri’s research focuses on connecting U.S. wind farms to the power system in an alternate way to the current standard. The replacement technology would be more economical, reliable and efficient when transmitting power over long distances.

Top 25 Women in Business Named Congrats to all the women that were recently named the Top 25 Women in Business by Prairie Business magazine! Each year, Prairie Business selects a group of extraordinary women who show exemplary leadership, motivation, ambition and talent at work, at home and in their communities. This year, the seven women who are Chamber members that made the list are:

▪ Anne Blackhurst, Minnesota State University Moorhead ▪ Julie Peterson Klein, Bell State Bank & Trust ▪ Michelle Kommer, Western State Bank ▪ Amanda McKinnon, MSPIRE ▪ Becky Newell, Stoneridge Software ▪ Tami Norgard, Vogel Law Firm ▪ Kya Schroeder, LJA ▪ Debbie Stang, Midco

$8.2 Million Raised During Giving Hearts Day for Area Non-profits The Giving Hearts Day fundraising event held February 11 across North Dakota and Minnesota raised $8,272,304 for 326 charities through 37,109 donations at impactgiveback.org. The $1.3 million increase over last year’s $6.9 million represents nearly a 19% jump.

The top large charity fundraisers that are members of The Chamber, with operating budgets above $500,000 are: Oak Grove Lutheran School $328,665; Churches United for the Homeless $321,366; YWCA Cass Clay $314,786; TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics $286,955; Great Plains Food Bank $176,943; Anne Carlsen Center (Jamestown) $172,096; Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch $167,160; Park Christian School $146,517 and Service Dogs for America (Jud, N.D.) $110,823. The top 10 smaller charities that are members of The Chamber, with operating budgets under $500,000 are: The Arts Partnership $105,203; Red River Children’s Advocacy Center $76,646; Gigi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Center $48,364; Jail Chaplains $45,008; HERO, Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization $41,012. Dakota Medical Foundation and other generous people and businesses matched donations of $10 or greater to at least $4,000 on Giving Hearts Day. Organizations interested in becoming part of Giving Hearts Day 2017, to be held February 9 next year, please email sarastolt@dakmed.org or contact 701-271-0263.

www.forumnewspaper.com

Since 1991

28 | April 2016

Karkoska Smalt Knudson

Absolute Marketing Group has announced the 2016 spring client relations interns: Emily Karkoska, Lee Smalt and Abby Knudson. Karkoska is double majoring in management communication and

strategic communication, with an emphasis in public relations and a minor in history at NDSU. She is originally from Mankato, Minnesota. Smalt is majoring in cultural anthropology at MSUM with a minor in media analysis. He is originally from Warroad, Minnesota but grew up moving throughout Texas. Knudson is pursuing a degree in strategic communication from NDSU with an emphasis in public relations and a minor in management communication. She is originally from Grand Forks.

Stafford

Aldevron has appointed Jenny Stafford as vice president and general manager. Stafford’s responsibilities include overseeing the company’s manufacturing and client relations operations in Fargo. Prior to Aldevron, Stafford worked at LifeCell Corporation, Merck Pharmaceuticals and PRACS Institute.

Astrup

The Board of Directors of American Crystal Sugar Company has elected Tom Astrup to be president of the company, assuming responsibilities immediately. Since January 2014, Astrup has held the position of vice president – operations. He previously held the positions of vice president–finance and chief financial officer, vice president–agriculture, and vice president–administration. Since 2007, he has also served as chief operating officer of Sidney Sugars, Incorporated. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of ProGold, LLC, as a Trustee of the United States Beet

Sugar Association and on the Board of Directors of The Chamber, and recently was named to the Board of The Greater North Dakota Chamber. Astrup received a degree in accounting from the University of North Dakota. David Berg, who has served as American Crystal’s president and chief executive officer since 2007, has announced his intention to retire on August 31. Berg will retain the title of CEO until his retirement. Upon Berg’s retirement date, Astrup will also assume the position of CEO.

Babik Hensley Ford Harris

Stevens

Appareo has hired Brian Babik, Eric Hensley and Laython Ford as territory managers, John Harris, as a test engineer, Cord Palmer as an SMT engineer and Teresa Stevens as a material handler. Babik earned his Bachelor of Arts in zoology from Miami University. He previously worked at ON24, Inc. Hensley earned a Bachelor of Science in marketing from Oklahoma State University and a master’s in business administration from Texas State University. He previously

worked at Chesapeake Energy Corporation. Ford is a native of Irma, Alberta, and previously worked at Kenlar Insulations. Harris earned his Ph.D. from NDSU and previously worked at NDSU Materials and Nanotechnology. Palmer earned his associate degree in electrical technologies from NDSCS and previously worked at Deere & Company. Stevens is a native of Fargo and previously worked at Droplet Measurement Technologies.

Palmer

Aarsvold Brantner Tollefson Messerschmidt

Bell State Bank & Trust announced the promotion of Jon Aarsvold to EVP/corporate finance risk manager, Laine Brantner to EVP/director of operations, Katrina Tollefson to vice president/branch manager, Brenda Messerschmidt to vice president/branch manager and Derrick Lewis to assistant branch manager. Originally from Blanchard, North Dakota, Aarsvold received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and economics from UND and has been in the banking field for 29 years. Brantner previously worked at Evolution1 and is originally from Fargo. Tollefson is originally from Thief River Falls, Minnesota, and has 14 years of banking experience. Messerschmidt has been in the banking field for 31 years and is originally from Mountain, North Dakota. Lewis earned his bachelor’s degree in mass communications with an emphasis in broadcast journalism and a minor in business administration from MSUM.

Jaster Perala

Josh Jaster and Linda Perala have recently joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties. Both are licensed Realtors® in North Dakota and Minnesota. Originally from Grafton, North Dakota, Jaster graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in business and public administration. Before joining BHHS, he worked at Gate City Bank. Outside of work, Jaster volunteers

for the local American Cancer Society and Junior Achievement of Fargo-Moorhead. Perala lives in West Fargo and comes to BHHS with more than 10 years of real estate experience, most recently working at Realty 2000 in Fargo. Outside of work, Perala is involved with the St. Benedict of Wild Rice, North Dakota, church service group.

Jaeger Ehrmantraut Carlson

Cornerstone Bank has hired Kristin Jaeger as marketing director and promoted Craig Ehrmantraut to AVP/business banking officer and Eric Carlson to SVP/finance director. Jaeger received her Bachelor of Science from

South Dakota State University and her master’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary. Ehrmantraut has been with Cornerstone Bank since 2009. Carlson earned his Bachelor of Science in business administration and his master’s degree in business administration.

Albright

Cass County Electric Cooperative’s board of directors has selected Marshal Albright as the next president and CEO of the company. Albright began his career at Cass County Electric in 1986, serving in various positions before taking the role of vice president of member and energy services in 2010. His 29 years of experience and leadership will serve the cooperative well in his new role.

Stai

Dakota CDC Board of Directors elected Jim Stai as a board director to represent the Economic Development sector. Stai spent 10 years teaching business at Lake Region Jr. College before joining the U.S. Small Business Administration in 1979. Stai has over 34 years of experience serving North Dakota and promoting development through small business growth.

Lewis

Member News People

fmwfchamber.com | 29

Anglin

Dawson Insurance has hired Brooke Anglin as a commercial lines account assistant. Anglin previously worked for First International Insurance and Essentia Health, and earned her medical secretary degree from Minnesota State Community & Technical College in Moorhead.

Dahl

Daphne Dahl has joined the DFC Consultants as a business solution consultant. Dahl previously worked as a purchasing and inventory manager, and has worked with Microsoft Dynamics GP for 14 years.

Bickel

Physician Assistant Matthew Bickel has joined the Orthopedics department at the Essentia Health 32nd Avenue Clinic in Fargo. Bickel earned a master’s degree in physician assistant studies from the University of Nebraska College of Medicine. He is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

Sevy

Eide Bailly LLP congratulates Jessica Sevy on becoming a Salesforce Certified Pardot Specialist. Salesforce Pardot certification recognizes one’s expertise in designing, building and implementing marketing automation workflows using the Pardot platform. Testing strategic marketing processes, this certification requires demonstrated skill and thorough understanding of leveraging data-driven marketing techniques to generate leads with the Salesforce CRM solution suite.

Henrikson James McFarland Wilson

FBS - Creators of Flexmls hired Crystal Gilson as a senior user experience researcher, Marcy Henrikson as a project manager, Casey James as a QA analyst, Wendy McFarland as an API data conversion developer and Michael Wilson as a software engineer. Gilson completed her undergraduate education at Goucher College in Towson, Maryland, and her graduate studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. She previously worked for Microsoft for 14 years. Henrikson is a graduate of Concordia College. She previously worked in St Cloud, Minnesota, for Capital One Financial as a scrum master/project manager and for ING DIRECT as a scrum master and software quality test analyst. James is a graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead. McFarland is a graduate of Wheaton College in Massachusetts. She previously worked at the National Academies Press as an internet production developer. Wilson holds degrees in educational psychology and anthropology from the University of Houston and has led multiple open-source projects and been a part of startups.

Eidem Krueger

The Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County has hired Matt Eidem as the new director of museum operations and promoted Markus Krueger to programming director. Eidem holds a liberal arts degree from Concordia and a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. Prior to joining HCSCC, Eidem spent three years as the first archivist

in the 130+ year history of a public library in New Albany, Indiana. Eidem joined the HCS staff in March of 2015 as a project archivist. Krueger holds a degree in art and art history from MSUM and started with HCS when he was in college as a volunteer tour guide for the Hopperstad Stave Church. He was hired as a museum assistant in 2007.

Kasper

Homewood Suites by Hilton GM Tom Kasper was selected to participate in the Extended Stay MVP program at Hilton Worldwide Operations Center in Memphis, Tennessee. Homewood and Home2 Suites by Hilton Brand Sales and Brand Performance Support Teams review nominations and invite the “Best of the Best” of the hotel brands each year to participate in the program. Candidates are brand advocates and leaders in extended stay in their local communities. Candidates demonstrate their leadership qualities not only at the hotel, but also by advocating new community initiatives,

participating in brand wide sales programs, and driving extended stay sales and revenue at their hotel. During this three-day event, participants received training to develop personally and professionally through presentation, listening and communication exercises, and competed in sales simulations.

Nies

Adam Nies, PE, of Houston Engineering’s Fargo office has successfully completed the process and examination to become an ASFPM Certified Floodplain Manager. The Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) grants this certification only to those professionals who meet the requirements and complete a comprehensive examination on the programs and standards to reduce flood losses in the nation.

Rome Nygaard

Brianne Rome has been hired as a sales coordinator and Jenna Nygaard has been promoted to new home sales specialist at Heritage Homes. Originally from Breckenridge, Minnesota, Rome graduated from the Minnesota School of Business as a paralegal. Prior to joining Heritage Homes, she held a sales manager position at The Source Salon for nearly eight years. Originally from Bismarck, Nygaard

graduated from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Before joining Heritage Homes, she held marketing and sales positions for more than 14 years. She also owns Jenna Lenertz Photography.

Versen Sayler

The North Dakota State University Foundation and Alumni Association has hired Mark Versen as major gift officer and Kari Sayler as executive assistant. Versen previously worked as director of development for the college of engineering at the University of Nebraska Foundation in Lincoln. He brings six years of experience in the field of higher education development and alumni relations at both private and

public institutions. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Dickinson State University. Sayler previously worked as a customer service representative at Forum Communications Printing. She also brings development and alumni relations experience, having worked at the NDSU Foundation and Alumni Association as a program. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mass communication from NDSU.

Member News People

30 | April 2016

Ohm Olson Dragt Houser

MAC’S, Inc. has hired Chris Ohm as director of finance, controller, and Terri Olson as assistant store manager of their Fargo location, and promoted Ryan Dragt to senior manager of store operations, Jeni Houser to assistant manager of inventory control, and Niketa Kusler to senior manager of accounting, CPA. Ohm joins MAC’S with over 22 years of professional accounting experience. Olson comes to MAC’s with 33 years of retail management with Wilson Leather and, most recently, Gander Mountain. Dragt has been with MAC’S for two years; he was most recently the facilities & operations manager. Houser has been with MAC’S for two years, and has held several positions with the company, most recently as inventory control supervisor. Kusler has worked for MAC’S for two years, most recently serving as corporate manager of HR & accounting, CPA.

Lund Timmreck Gantzer

The North Dakota Safety Council (NDSC) has welcomed Sarah Lund as an office coordinator, Chelle Timmreck as First Aid coordinator and Gus Gantzer as safety consultant. Lund has over 12 years of experience in customer service and

management, including six years as the manager for Applebee’s in Bismarck. As a graduate of Dickinson State University, she obtained her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management. Timmreck brings a wealth of knowledge to the NDSC in management, sales, communication and marketing. Prior to the NDSC, Gantzer worked for 20 years as a journeyman electrician and has eight years of experience as a controls technical expert for the U.S. government. He also has prior experience as a certified course instructor.

Tyson

The North Dakota Autism Center, Inc. has promoted Jessica Tyson to a full-time behavior therapist. She started working with the Autism Center in April 2014 and has worked in both the behavior service and in-home support programs. Tyson graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a degree in early childhood education and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in autism and early childhood special education though the University of North Dakota.

Sobiech Blosser Vethanayagam

North Dakota State University’s Information Technology Division has selected Steve Sobiech as assistant vice president for Enterprise Computing and Infrastructure and Jason Blosser as assistant vice president for Information Technology

Services, and hired Suhan Vethanayagam as a system administrator in the Enterprise Computing and Infrastructure department. Sobiech has 14 years of experience working in information technology. He earned a bachelor’s degree from NDSU. Blosser has 20 years of leadership experience in higher education at Manchester Community College in Connecticut and NDSU . Blosser earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational communication from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff and a master’s degree in religious studies from Hartford Seminary in Connecticut. Before coming to NDSU, Vethanayagam was an operating system engineer for Wells Fargo and a UNIX engineer for TIAA-CREF in Charlotte, North Carolina. He earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in computer science at NDSU.

Kusler Ostrowski

Preference Personnel has hired Heather Ostrowski as a client relations manager. Prior to joining Preference Personnel, Ostrowski was a performance consultant at Dale Carnegie Training in Fargo. She brings over 20 years of experience in management, recruiting, marketing and connecting with people. Ostrowski will help support business growth and the needs of clients in the ever changing employment industry.

Rich Kelsh Heck

Park Co. Realtors welcomed Samantha Rich as an accounting and administrative services coordinator, Katie Kelsh as a REALTOR® and Holly (Kurth) Heck as a real estate agent. Rich was recently employed at TMI Communications in Fargo

as the inventory manager. She graduated from the Minnesota School of Business with her MBA in accounting/finance. Kelsh earned a bachelor’s degree in science at Minnesota State University Moorhead. She previously owned Magnum Manufacturing, LLC. Heck comes with three years’ experience in real estate in the Twin Cities. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Jamestown.

Swenson Larson Aarsvold Mapes

Park Co. Realtors announced that Jamie R Swenson has earned the Consumer Safety and Security Specialist designation to provide safety resources to help protect her clients, Nathan Larson has been awarded the e-PRO® certification by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the Accredited Buyer’s Representation designation by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council, Michelle Aarsvold has been awarded the At Home with Diversity® certification from the National Association of REALTORS, Kelly Mapes has been awarded the Accredited Buyer’s Representation designation by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council and Amanda Midthune has been awarded the national Graduate REALTOR® Institute designation.

Edwards

Ramada Plaza & Suites announced the appointment of Phillip Edwards to their executive chef position. Edwards is originally from Arkansas. He graduated from The School of Culinary Arts at the Art Institute of Colorado and studied at the Chiang Mai School of Thai Cooking in Thailand. His career has expanded as a sous chef for McMurdo and South Pole Stations, Antarctica, with further culinary experience in Reno, Pittsburgh, Chicago and Minneapolis, before moving to this area as the chef at Concordia College.

Blankenship

Jared Blankenship has joined RE/MAX Legacy Realty, Fargo, as a licensed Realtor in North Dakota and Minnesota. Blankenship has five years of mortgage lending experience in addition to his four years in the real estate field. Blankenship specializes in new construction, working with Dabbert Custom Homes, along with helping existing home buyers and sellers.

Midthune

Member News People

fmwfchamber.com | 31

Johnson

Kevin and Lora Elfstrum, owners of Sir Speedy in Fargo, recognize Neil Johnson for his 20 years of service to their company. Johnson’s excellent customer service combined with his extensive printing industry experience has helped the Elfstrum’s Sir Speedy remain a top franchise in the worldwide network. Johnson joined the company one year after the business opened in 1995.

Johnson

Scheels Home & Hardware, Fargo, has hired Steve Johnson as a design consultant. Johnson received bachelor’s degrees in art and public history from North Dakota State University. He has over 30 years experience in custom framing, interior decorating, and paint and wallcovering consultations, both in commercial and residential applications.

Michalski Wilson Erickson Klefstad

Tyson Maynard

ShareHouse, Inc. has hired Amber Michalski and Kendra Wilson as licensed addiction counselors, and Hannah Erickson, Meagan Klefstad, Amber Mutalipassi and Jamie Tyson as licensed social work case managers, and promoted Josh Maynard to clinical supervisor. Michalski earned a master’s of art in clinical psychology from MN School of

Professional Psychology at Argosy University, and a bachelor of science in community psychology from St. Cloud State University. Wilson earned a bachelor’s of science in chemical dependency and community psychology from St. Cloud State University. She completed her internships at Journey Home and Community Addiction Recovery Enterprises. Erickson earned a bachelor’s in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead. She completed her internship at ShareHouse Robinson Recovery Center. Klefstad earned a bachelor’s in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Mutalipassi earned a bachelor’s in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead and an associate of applied science in Human Services from Rasmussen College. Tyson earned a bachelor’s in social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead and an associate of arts degree from M-State. Maynard has been promoted to clinical supervisor. He earned a bachelor’s of science in criminal justice and minor in psychology from North Dakota State University and a bachelor’s of social work from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Maynard has been employed at ShareHouse since 2005.

Asche

Steve Asche, a wealth advisor with Thrivent Financial, has qualified to attend the Summit Circle conference by providing outstanding financial guidance, solutions and service to members of the organization in 2015. Only 226 of Thrivent Financial’s more than 2,300 financial representatives qualified for this honor. Asche will be recognized by his peers from across the country at Thrivent Financial’s annual conference in Nashville. Asche has been with Thrivent Financial for 24 years.

Schumaker

TMI Hospitality announced that Crissa Schumaker has been hired as national talent advisor at its Fargo corporate office. She comes with many years of recruiting experience with a local architecture and engineering firm, and management experience with a local staffing agency. Schumaker earned her bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University in hospitality and tourism management.

Mutalipassi

Neuschwander Monson LaMont EnnisWanzek Construction, Inc. has hired Steven Sand as business development manager, Samuel Miller as business development manager, Thomas Loegering as business development manager, Janet Ritchie as construction support specialist, Jeffrey Creel as senior safety manager, Neal Detert as a project manager, Darin Neuschwander as a project manager, Chase Monson as accounting specialist, Sharon LaMont as office support coordinator, Jennifer Kraiter as HR generalist and Kimberly Simpson as business systems analyst; and promoted Kent Ennis to executive account manager. Sand holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mayville State University. He was previously a key account manager for Dean Foods. Miller holds a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics. He was previously employed with Molstad Excavating Inc. Loegering holds a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. He was previously director of corporate development with TMI Hospitality. Ritchie holds a certification in supply chain management from the Institute of Supply Chain Management. She was previously employed as a vendor acknowledgment associate for Border States Electric. Creel holds a Bachelor of Arts in emergency administration management/fire science from Northwest Florida State College as well as an Associate of Arts in emergency medical management/EMT-P from Gulf Coast Community College. Detert holds a Master of Arts degree in international development from the International University of Japan, a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of Minnesota and a Project Management Professional certification from the Project Management Institute. He was previously chief operating officer for the Bodi Group in Mongolia. Neuschwander has 28 years of experience in the construction industry. He holds a degree in construction electricity from Moorhead Technical College. Monson holds an Associate’s of Applied Science degree in computer programming from MSCTC. He was previously employed with Volt as a Microsoft Dynamics GP support specialist. LaMont holds a diploma in business/administration from Interstate Business College. She has over 25 years of experience in administration and was previously employed with O’Day Equipment, LLC. Kraiter holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Mary. She was previously a HR specialist for the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Simpson holds Associate of Applied Science degrees in accounting and business entrepreneurship from Minnesota State Community and Technical College in Moorhead. She was previously a CRM/GP/Sharepoint specialist at National Joint Powers Alliance. Ennis previously held the position of senior development manager at Wanzek.

Member News People

IntroducingWALK-IN WORK INJURY CAREMonday-Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Essentia Health-West Fargo ClinicOccupational Medicine1401 13th Avenue East | West Fargo701.364.5757

32 | April 2016

Hauer Smith Kloos RudeWestern State Bank has hired Ashley Hauer as a mortgage loan processor, Kelsey Smith as a human resources director and Kelsey Kloos as a customer service representative, and promoted Riley Rude to assistant vice president/business banking officer. Prior to joining Western, Hauer worked at Park Company Realtors in Fargo as a coordinator of accounting and administration services. Hauer also served as a property accountant at Goldmark Property Management in Fargo. Hauer received her Associates of Applied Science degree in accounting from Alexandria Technical and Community College and her Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Rasmussen College. Prior to joining Western, Smith worked at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota as the manager of Total Rewards and human resources. Smith has also served as a human resource officer at Bank of North Dakota and a personal banker at Wells Fargo. Smith attended North Dakota State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration. Prior to joining Western, Kloos worked at the University of North Dakota Post Office in Grand Forks and coached soccer for the West Fargo Park District. Kloos attended the University of North Dakota, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Prior to joining Western, Rude served as a commissioned examiner for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Rude earned his Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Martinez Prante

Juan Martinez and Zach Prante have joined the audit department of Widmer Roel as staff accountants, providing audit and accounting services. Martinez has a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota. Prante has a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota.

Ezekwem

Zerr Berg Architects has hired Ken Ezekwem as a project manager. Ezekwem has his Bachelor of Science in architecture from University of Nigeria and has completed his course work for a Master of Science in construction management from North Dakota State University.

Member News People

Find out how becoming a plasma donor can make adifference for patients and help you earn extra money.

Talecris Plasma Resources218-287-2700

800 Holiday Dr., Ste. 140, Moorhead

New donors earn up to $150 in a week.Bring in this ad for a $10 bonus.

grifolsplasma.com

My one reason?

To show Icare about my

community.You only need one reason to donate plasma.

ENTREPRENEURS WANTED

Put your ideas to work. We help entrepreneurs and start-ups in high-tech industries

gain a foothold and move onto solid financial and operational

ground. For established companies, we help advance their

research and development initiatives. Programs include:

RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PARK

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT NDSU RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PARKwww.ndsuresearchpark.com | 701.499.3603 | john@ndsuresearchpark.com

• Technology innovation, commercialization, licensing and joint venture opportunities

• Entrepreneur Development - comprehensive business assistance, market research, educational events, mentoring and networking

• Financing, venture capital and strategic partnerships

• Access to talent

GROW. TOGETHER.

SANFORD MEDICAL CENTER FARGO

As you grow. We grow. Together.Opening 2017

030002-00131 3/16

fmwfchamber.com | 33

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!

A-One Business Solutions, LLC a-onebusiness.comAccounting ‑ Accounting ServicesA-One Business Solutions provides professional outsource bookkeeping services to startups, small businesses and CPA firms. No matter the project size, their Intuit Certified Quickbooks Pro-Advisors have the solution.

Beans Coffee Barbeansfargo.com Coffee ‑ TeaBeans Coffee Bar lovingly serves all your favorite coffee or non-coffee beverages, homemade mini donuts and fresh, local treats in a classy, comfortable getaway spot – perfect for business or pleasure.

Collins and Krank/Raymond Jamescollinskrank.com

Financial ConsultantsCollins and Krank/Raymond James is a full service financial boutique located in downtown Fargo. They advise select families and institutions, providing holistic wealth management and investment services.

Ignite Chiropracticr ignitefargo.comChiropractorsIgnite Chiropractic is a state-of-the-art neurologically based chiropractic practice. They allow you to achieve optimal health through gentle, specific chiropractic care.

Ira’s Custom Cabinets, Inc.701.428.3389CabinetryIra’s Custom Cabinets manufactures high quality custom cabinets, vanities, bookcases and mantels for residential and commercial properties.

Lida Communications, LLC701.347.5985ConsultantsAgricultural marketing consultant working with farmers and others associated with agriculture.

LTA Marketing Group, LLCLTAmarketing.com InsuranceLTA Marketing Group is a national wholesaler of insurance products supporting carriers, agencies, and agents in the design, distribution, and administration of life insurance, fixed annuities, income solutions and care programs. M & D Sweet Treats 701.367.4155BakeriesM & D Sweet Treats is a mother/daughter duo who specializes in German kuchen, cookies, bars, sweet breads, scones, along with many other goodies.

Pinnacle Communications West pinnaclecommunications.comTelecommunications ServicesPinnacle is the nation’s number one telecommunications solutions provider, specializing in hospitality industry solutions while expanding into other sectors including health care, enterprise and industrial applications.

Plains Title LLCplainstitlellc.comTitle CompaniesPlains Title is a real estate title insurance and closing company. They are licensed to issue title insurance in North Dakota and Minnesota. Plains Title can also close cash sales, FSBO, ag land, commercial transactions and construction loans. They have a licensed attorney on the staff to handle all legal needs.

Rosey’s Bistroroseysfargo.comRestaurantsRosey’s Bistro is a grilled cheese restaurant, a seafood market, a cheese and charcuterie market, a full bar, an event center and more. It features a piano bar and live entertainment, in the heart of downtown Fargo.

TIAAtiaa.comFinancial ConsultantsThe expert consultants at TIAA-CREF can give you a personalized analysis of your portfolio, designed to help you plan and invest for a more successful retirement, based on your career stage and retirement income goals.

New Members

701.239.8500 www.eidebai l ly.com

Eide Bailly is proud to support the ChamberChoice Awards and to be a part of a community with each of these nominees, who are leaving a lasting legacy in the Fargo Moorhead area.

A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE STARTS WITH THE LEGACY WE BUILD TODAY www.indigosignworks.com

1622 Main Ave | Fargo, ND | 701.297.9696 | fargo@indigosignworks.comAdditional locations in Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, Alexandria & St. Cloud

Lighted Signage | Pole & Monument Signs | AwningsVinyl Graphics | Neon | LEDs | Interior Signs | ADAInterior & Exterior Digital Displays | | Digital Printing

Express Graphics

34 | April 2016

ROSEWOOD ON BROADWAY

ND DIVISION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION

TUBS OF FUN

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SOCIETY OF CLAY COUNTY

TCI INSURANCE

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 fmwfchamber.com or call Mickayla at 218.233.1100.

New ownership celebration on February 9 4021 Main Avenue, Fargotubsoffun.com

Exhibit grand opening celebration on February 16 202 First Avenue North, Moorheadhcscconline.org

30-year anniversary on February 3 158 West Beaton Drive, Suite 100, West Fargotciteam.com

Remodel celebration on February 11 1351 Broadway North, Fargorosewoodonbroadway.com

Relocation celebration on February 26 1655 43rd Street South, Suite 208, Fargond.gov/dhs/dvr/index.html

Celebrations

www.tmihospitality.com | 866.586.8326

200 HOTELS25 STATES

fmwfchamber.com | 35

Calendar of EventsEggs & Issues: The State of the Agriculture Economy in Our CommunityTuesday, April 5 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-MoorheadAgriculture has been the backbone of our economy for centuries, and at this upcoming event three panelists will shed some light on the market currently – plus find out about our new Agribusiness committee!

Business Training: The Power of Being a Social EmployeeTuesday, April 12 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo It’s time to connect our professional goals to social media. This Business Training will be packed with examples to demonstrate the powerful voice of the social employee.

YPN - Off the ClockThursday, March 20 | 5:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Rustica Eatery and Tavern, 315 Main Avenue, MoorheadJoin us for our April Off the Clock at Rustica Eatery and Tavern, where they boast a cozy neighborhood atmosphere in the historic 1898 Kassenborg Bock building. Dedicated to offering high-quality, seasonally focused products, they have created the diverse menu based on traditional American fare with European influences. As usual, apps and networking are provided, but drinks are on your own.

Business After HoursThursday, April 21 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Ramada Plaza & Suites Come out to our spring Business After Hours to promote your own business and network with other business leaders in a relaxed social atmosphere.

Women Connect: Shattering Gender Barriers - Four Generations of Women in Our CommunityTuesday, April 26| 3:30 to 5 p.m.Avalon Events Center, FargoFor women, a persistent subtle gender bias can disrupt the learning cycle at the heart of becoming a leader. Hear from four women who have shattered those gender barriers.

Treat Your Team LuncheonWednesday, April 27 | Seating Times: 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.Barbacoa, 3241 42nd Street South, FargoThe Boiler Room, 210 Broadway North, Suite 90, Fargo Sazerac Alley, 220 Broadway North, FargoTreat your staff to lunch at the annual Treat Your Team Luncheon on Administrative Professional Day to say thanks for all their work. Proceeds to benefit the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!).

reGroup: “Recovery Transformed My Life” Friday, April 8 | 7:30 a.m. to Noon Baymont Inn and Suites FargoDaniel Maurer will present on the power of narrative and why your story matters to recovery. Addictions steal people but stories can reclaim them. Learn how to help others here!

Refresh Leadership LiveWednesday, April 13 | 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn, FargoExpress Employment Professionals presents “Refresh Leadership Live,” a leadership event you won’t want to miss! Hear a distinguished lineup of inspirational speakers sharing how to lead and inspire.

2nd Annual Homeward Animal Shelter Fundraising LunchThursday, April 21 | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Holiday Inn FargoHomeward Animal Shelter is hosting their 2nd Annual Spay-ghetti & No Balls Lunch with raffle. Free-will donation with proceeds going to the spay/neuter fund at Homeward Animal Shelter.

Midwest Sales SymposiumFriday, April 22 | 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Holiday Inn FargoNDSU presents a conference focused on sales, the sales industry and sales technology with keynote speaker Sam Richter, an internationally recognized expert on sales intelligence and online reputation management.

ND Autism Center’s 7th Annual “AuSome” Evening Gala and Fundraising EventFriday, April 29 | 5:30 p.m. Avalon Events CenterThe North Dakota Autism Center’s annual “AuSome” evening gala and fundraising event will feature Kerry Magro, a 27-year-old motivational speaker, disability advocate and consultant. With a social hour, fundraising games, silent auction, dinner and program.

Chamber - April 2016

Community Events - April 2016

Would you like to see your events here and on our online community calendar? Send your events to info@fmwfchamber.com!

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo ChamberPost Office Box 2443Fargo, North Dakota 58108-2443

fmwfchamber.com

Bridgethe

Community Builders