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PRESIDENT FROM THE

IT’S ELECTION SEASON!

It’s that time of year again! We are in the midst of campaign season, gearing up for what is sure to be a historical election. Between TV commercials and your mailbox filling up with advertisements, it’s hard to miss the importance of what will be happening on November 8. Between the presidential election, congressional races and legislative candidates all the way down to local measures, your ballot is sure to be full next month.

I encourage you to reach out to the candidates you could be voting for and get your questions answered. Find out where they stand on issues important to you and make an educated decision on the candidates for whom you will cast your vote.

When it comes to legislative races in Cass and Clay counties, I invite you to attend our legislative Candidate Cracker Barrel on Tuesday, October 18 at 3:30 p.m. at the Hjemkomst Center. Candidates from Cass County Districts 16, 22, 44 and 46 have been invited to participate along with Clay County District 4 candidates. A cracker barrel style event provides attendees and candidates a way to have informal discussion and interaction on topics versus a formal debate. You will find more information on the event in the Public Affairs section on page 7 of this issue.

A specific measure that will be on everyone’s ballot is the half cent sales tax extension vote in the city of Fargo and in Cass County. The Chamber is a firm supporter of the Fargo Moorhead Diversion Project, and we ask all of our members to please vote “yes” on this extremely important vote. Extending the half cent sales tax is the fairest way to properly fund a project that is so necessary for our region.

It must be made clear that voting “yes” will NOT raise any taxes, and will only extend the tax until the completion of the project and it is fully paid for.

It’s time to get this done, and approving both of these extensions will do just that.

Craig Whitney President & CEO The Chamber

CHAMBER NEWS - New Hires

The Chamber has hired Katie McPherson as graphics and publications coordinator and Tyler Fischbach as multimedia coordinator. McPherson is responsible for directing the design and production of Chamber publications and marketing materials. Fischbach is responsible for The Chamber’s multimedia efforts, including video and online.

McPherson graduated from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design with an emphasis in marketing. She previously worked at Vanity’s corporate office as a graphic designer, and prior to that was a graphic artist at SCHEELS. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, home decorating, fishing, gardening and being at the lake.

Fischbach started at The Chamber in December 2015 as a part-time communications and publications intern, and we’re thrilled to welcome him in a new full-time role. He graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications and an emphasis in interactive multimedia in May. He also works at Tradehome Shoes as an assistant manager.

Power Up Your Business

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

#FMWFEggs EGGS & ISSUES

Back to Basics on Tax Incentives

Close to 20 years ago, the North Dakota Legislature and citizen committees started to take a look at business and development tax incentive programs to bolster progress across the state. It’s important as we look to the future of these programs and evaluate their execution in our community, that we have a clear understanding on the basis of how and why these programs were created.

We will hear from Senator Dwight Cook, chairman of the Senate Tax committee since 2009, along with Fargo City Commissioner, former state Senator Tony Grindberg and Shane Goettle, public affairs director for Odney. With their over 30 years of combined legislative and business development experience, you are sure to gain a strong understanding of why tax incentives were created, what the incentives have done for communities that have utilized them and what the future of these programs looks like.

Tuesday, October 4

7:30 to 9 a.m.

Holiday Inn Fargo - NEW LOCATION THIS MONTH

Flying High: A Look at Fargo’s Air Service

You see them flying overhead, bringing visitors and residents to and from Fargo all day long. But do you know all of what is happening at Hector International Airport? Shawn Dobberstein, executive director of Hector International Airport, will provide us with a full update on construction projects, terminal changes and what to expect in the coming year for local air service. Michael Lum, consultant with Sixel Consulting, will share also an overall view of the Fargo air service market. Through data about passenger trends, fares, load factors, popular domestic and international flights, you’ll gain an understanding into what it takes to gain air service in our region.

Please note: Due to construction in Moorhead, you may need to plan for extra travel time and find an alternate route.

Tuesday, November 1

7:30 to 9 a.m.

Courtyard by Marriott Fargo Moorhead

Registration (includes breakfast)

Chamber Members: $30 in advance | $35 at the door

Non-Members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

COOK

DOBBERSTEIN

GRINDBERG

GOETTLE

LEGISLATIVE CANDIDATE CRACKER BARREL

Tuesday, October 18 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Hjemkomst Center, 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead

The Chamber’s Legislative Candidate Cracker Barrel initiates or inspires routine conversations between our policy makers and business leaders. We’ve designed the event to provide you an opportunity to meet candidates and share the issues you are most interested in. The format is informal, unintimidating and fast-paced. The engaging format allows connections to be made without note cards or scripts so the relationship will last after the election occurs.

A “cracker barrel” is a traditional expression used to describe a habitual discussion among a common group or community.

The event will kick off with brief welcome remarks before candidates begin meeting with small groups for 5 to 7 minutes. Candidates will continue circulating among the groups.

Join a table or invite your colleagues and form your own. Cass and Clay County legislative candidates have been invited to participate.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

AN UPDATE ON AREA K-12 EDUCATION

September’s Eggs & Issues got us in back to school mode as we hosted the K-12 superintendents from Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo to provide us with an update of their systems and share their thoughts on the year ahead.

Dr. Jeff Schatz, superintendent of Fargo Public Schools, focused on the steady growth of Fargo. Although Fargo isn’t seeing the large growth numbers of neighboring districts, there is a small, steady increase with more on the horizon. Schatz shared a personal story of his time spent in Grand Forks during the devastating floods of 1997. Through his time working at Grand Forks Central, he saw firsthand the catastrophic devastation that can happen in a community that is taken under by flooding. The completion of the Fargo Moorhead Diversion Project will be an integral part of the success of our community.

Dr. Lynne Kovash, superintendent of Moorhead Public Schools, shared with the audience all of the progress and plans being made on the new construction and renovations that are happening across the district. Last fall, Moorhead residents approved a referendum that allowed funds to be utilized to adjust to the growing number of students and also update the current security systems at all schools in the district.

Dr. David Flowers, superintendent of West Fargo Public Schools, has been hard at work keeping up with the exponential growth that has happened across the district. Multiple new schools have been added to the system to accommodate the growing number of students and there are already plans to add more.

All three superintendents expressed the importance of their collaborative working relationships as they try to make their schools districts some of the best in Minnesota and North Dakota. We are reminded once again how connected all of our communities are in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metropolitan area.

Welcome to Our Newest Community Builders!

The Chamber is proud to introduce seven new Community Builders in our Premier Partner program. These companies have made a commitment to improving the area by investing in our programs and events. Their inclusion in the Premier Partner program also entitles them to specific benefits. All of our Community Builders are represented on the back page of each issue of The Bridge.

AMERICAN CRYSTAL SUGAR COMPANY - crystalsugar.com

American Crystal Sugar Company is a world-class agricultural cooperative that specializes in sugar and sugar-based products and byproducts.

BEVERAGE WHOLESALERS - (701) 293-7404

Provides the following products: Lite, Miller Genuine Draft, High Life, Hamm’s, Leinenkugel’s, Corona, Boulevard, Big Sky, Wood Chuck, Mickey’s, Molson, Black Oak Wines, Fat Tire, Shiner, Deschutes, Crispin, Redd’s, Big Wood and Third Street.

CHOICE FINANCIAL - choicefinancialgroup.com

Choice Financial is a premier provider of financial solutions in our region with a complete array of financial products and services that include both business and personal banking, insurance and investments. They are a local community bank that offers customers great choice and service.

DABBERT CUSTOM HOMES - dabbertcustomhomes.com

Dabbert Custom Homes has over 25 years’ experience in the building industry. They offer a variety of home styles to suit your needs. Their quality and attention to detail will exceed your expectations.

FORUM COMMUNICATIONS PRINTING - forumprinting.com

Providing you with the most comprehensive printing and mailing capabilities in our region. Specializing in daily mail pick-up, calendars, statements and invoices, direct mail, post card, brochures, magazines, catalogs, manuals, directories, and digital color printing. Now offering digital editions, custom QR code design, PURLS, SMS texting, mail list rentals, fulfillment and online ordering.

NETWORK CENTER, INC. - netcenter.net

Since 1986, Network Center, Inc. has been providing technology solutions for virtualization, VoIP-communications, mobility, disaster recovery, network infrastructure, 24x7 help desk, website development, and much more. Our mission is to deliver proactive technology solutions and support that ensure our customers achieve the highest level of business success.

TALECRIS PLASMA RESOURCES - grifolsplasma.com

Grifols is a global health care company whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. They accomplish this mission by producing lifesaving protein therapies for patients and by providing hospitals, pharmacies and health care professionals with tools they need to deliver expert medical care.

We believe strong businesses are built with strong communities. Eide Bailly has proudly been headquartered in Fargo since 1917.

701.239.8500 | www. eidebailly .com

Homes for Our Troops

PROGRAM SPONSORS

On September 10, Homes for our Troops, a national organization whose mission is to provide mortgage-free specially adapted homes to severely injured post 9/11 veterans, held a community kickoff event to recognize retired Master Sargent Eric Marts. He was selected to receive a home after suffering from a traumatic brain injury which resulted in blindness while serving in Fallujah, Iraq. The home that will be constructed will be adapted to have wider hallways and doorways and voice-activated controls. Keep a look out for updates as this project progresses!

passionate employees

Our performance-driven attitude empowers our customers to work smarter, dream bigger and take technology further. That’s a partnership everyone will love. Learn more and get empowered at marconet.com.

marconet.com #mpowering taking technology further

Sue Swanson ManagerManaged IT Service Marco

Annual Meeting IN REVIEW

Last month, The Chamber’s Sixth Annual Meeting allowed us to honor all our amazing volunteers, recap our year, look ahead to the next one, and recognize the 2016 Legacy Leader.

Outgoing board chair Jon Riewer shared our accomplishments from the prior fiscal year, while incoming chair Judd Graham explained our priorities for the next year, which include workforce efforts and advocating for a convention center.

Roger Gilbertson accepted the Legacy Leader award with an introduction from former Fargo mayor Bruce Furness

We want to thank everyone who has volunteered and supported our efforts.

And check out our year-end videos on the FMWF Chamber YouTube page!

It’s been a great year, thanks to all of YOU!

Photos courtesy of Sean Coffman

LAST MONTH IN PHOTOS

September’s Eggs & Issues afforded attendees the chance to get an update on our region’s K-12 education systems, as we were joined by each city’s school superintendents. For the full recap, see page 6.

In August, Pam McGee and Jodi Heilman spoke to the Women Connect crowd about the importance of personal branding. And thanks to attendees, 46 packages of pens and pencils were donated to CHARISM.

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.

Silencing Self-Doubt:

Living to Thrive

Studies indicate that women are more likely to feel they don’t deserve to be as successful as they are, and experience crippling self-doubt. Recent research confirms it: Women face a particular crisis – the confidence gap that separates the sexes.

Often times the biggest barrier women have is their own underlying self-doubt. It is easiest to stay in our default mode, our comfort zone. But when we decide not to listen to the critic within and push beyond what we think is possible, magic happens and we discover our real potential, allowing us to thrive.

Whatever comes after the words “I am” is up to you. Redefine and take ownership of your life by moving past self-doubt, fear and perceived limitations. At this session of Women Connect, Bethany Gartin, performance consultant at Dale Carnegie, will focus on the power of the selffulfilling prophecy, offer tools to overcome barriers and inspiration to conquer self-doubt.

Gartin is a native Texan and University of Texas at Austin alum. Her experiences have developed a passion for helping others discover and utilize their unique strengths and potential. After five years in the non-profit sector, she transitioned into a new role at Dale Carnegie Training, where she is lucky to actively live her purpose every day.

Tuesday, October 18

3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m. Avalon Events Center

From the Bottom to the Top: One Woman’s Story of Entrepreneurial Success

As women, it is our responsibility to help and support other women. When we do this, incredible things can happen. We can change the future and enrich the lives of others and ourselves.

Edie Ramstad, owner of Weave Got Maille, will share how this philosophy has helped take her from the bottom to the top. From feeling like she would never be able to do anything, to owning two million-dollar companies and helping numerous other women reach their goals and better their lives, her story is one that is inspiring and encouraging.

Weave Got Maille is the third largest supplier of chainmaille supplies in the world. Trained as a goldsmith, Ramstad has a love of all things crafty and can’t remember a time she wasn’t making something. And entrepreneurship has always been in her blood. She has mentored, helped start or started over 65 different business in everything from jewelry stores to garbage companies and coffee house to a dude ranch. When she retired in 2011, she had a thought that she should have a hobby business to fill a little time. That thought became Weave Got Maille. Ramstad is opening a second business, an aluminum anodizing and processing company.

Register now for your seat to hear her story and how you can transform the lives of yourself and others around you for the better.

Tuesday, November 22

3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m. Avalon Events Center

Registration

Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $30 at the door Non-Members: $35 in advance | $40 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

GARTIN

RAMSTAD

NEVER QUIT

SEAL Team Six Leader Robert O’Neill to Headline 2016 Voices of Vision

An inspiring message from the SEAL Team Six leader who was part of the team that shot Osama bin Laden.

Decorated combat veteran Robert O’Neill will bring his expertise and insights to the seventh annual Voices of Vision. O’Neill’s presentation, “Never Quit: The Story of a Life Built on Successful Missions” focuses on what he learned during his more than 400 combat missions across four theaters of war.

O’Neill has served America as a SEAL team leader and senior chief petty officer at Naval Special Development Group in some of the most challenging, storied, clandestine military roles of our time. A highly-trained Navy SEAL, he led the military’s most elite and was involved in our nation’s most important campaigns.

One of the nation’s most decorated veterans, O’Neill has been decorated more than 52 times with honors.

Since leaving active duty, O’Neill is a co-founder of Your Grateful Nation, which provides individualized transition support for Special Operations heroes and their families. He is also a contributor to Fox News.

“During Robert O’Neill’s leadership of SEAL Team Six, perhaps his most important mission was the one that took out the leader of Al Qaeda, Osama bin Laden,” Chamber President and CEO Craig Whitney commented. “Additionally, considering his role in the rescue of Captain Phillips, his unique perspective on leadership in training is one I know will resonate with Chamber member firms and their employees.”

Please join us to hear from one of the legends of our nation’s military as he shares his views on the ingredients to a successful mission: the right people, preparedness, decision making under pressure, and, above all, a commitment to never quit.

November 16, 2016

Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Ramada Plaza & Suites

at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

#FMWFTraining

FLSA Overtime Rule Change

What You Need to Know & Do Right Now

Join two “sisters-in-law” who happen to be real-life sisters to discuss the impact of the new U.S. DOL Overtime Rule change on your organization. Martha Velasco Suarez is a labor & employment attorney, and Michelle Kommer of Western State Bank has served as in-house counsel and HR executive with several organizations. From their two unique perspectives, you will be equipped with knowledge, information and tools to manage this unprecedented change.

The highly anticipated change to overtime regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act will become effective on December 1, 2016. Among other things, the new rule more than doubles the salary level required for some of the most common exemptions from $23,660 to $47,476 annually. If you are wondering if this change impacts your company, the answer likely is yes.

Join us for this practical session to help you prepare for this change. You’ll hear an overview of the FLSA white collar exemptions and changes, guidance to determine how your company may be impacted financially, and what tools are available to assist you.

Continuing education credits approved:

· ND State Bar - 2 credits /ND CPA - 2 credits

Continuing education credits with approval pending:

· HCRI - 2 credits

· MN State Bar - 2 credits

Wednesday, October 12

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Ramada Plaza & Suites

BUSINESS TRAINING

Cyber Security You Can Outsmart a Con-Artist

Scams and fraud are all around us, even in places we least expect to see it. Because cyber security affects all areas of our lives – personal, business and financial – learn from experts in each of these three areas at this training. Lisa Jemtrud of the Better Business Bureau, Rick Davis of Insight Technologies, and Jesse Van Nevel of First International Bank & Trust, will share important information regarding scams and fraud in a society where data security threats are front and center. Moderated by Heather Johnson of the Better Business Bureau.

We’ll start with an overview of cybersecurity threats and online consumer safety. We’ll also discuss the cyber threats businesses face and how to stay safe everywhere from the front door to your business’s firewall, with practical tips to keep your business’s data and your customers’ secure.

Come with questions and learn how to prevent scams from taking a toll on your business.

Continuing education credits approved: · ND State Bar - 2 credits /ND CPA - 2 credits

Wednesday, November 9 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo

Registration (includes lunch)

Chamber Members: $27 in advance | $32 at the door

Non-Members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) kicks off on October 19, and we couldn’t be more excited for the 2016-17 class and the 30-week adventure that is about to begin! This year we will once again hold our classes at North Dakota State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College. Hosting YEA! at these three institutions gives middle and high school students the opportunity to spend significant time on a college campus before they graduate high school, and we are fortunate to have access to some of the resources these universities provide.

Throughout the last month and a half, we made great strides in recruiting students and have our local schools to thank. Our YEA! program coordinator, Katie Ralston, was invited to speak to student audiences big and small, in various formats and in all three cities. Superintendents, counselors, principals and teachers did a fantastic job of promoting YEA! and encouraging their students to get involved. Stay tuned as we introduce the area’s newest (and youngest) up and coming entrepreneurs next month!

Finally, we are fortunate to have the support and expertise of local businesses and professionals who believe in helping the youth of our community achieve success. This summer, we announced that we needed volunteers to help with this program, and the response was amazing! Thank you to the individuals who have answered the call to contribute to this program as instructors, guest speakers, mentors and field trip hosts.

OFF THE CLOCK

Thursday, October 19

5:15 to 7:30 p.m.

Rookies Sports Bar & Grill

715 13th Avenue East, West Fargo - FREE, no registration required.

Join us for our October Off the Clock at Rookies Sports Bar & Grill. Locally owned and operated, Rookies is tagged as “West Fargo’s neighborhood sports bar” with plenty of great food and drink options no matter what you’re looking for. As usual, apps and networking are provided, but drinks are on your own.

Thank you to everyone that came to last month’s new member social, Off the Clock and Scavenger Hunt!

The YPN Gives Back

After 11 years, the Young Professionals Network continues to develop skills and enrich the lives of young professionals in the area by focusing on three pillars: giving back, professional development and building connections.

The YPN believes that there is no better way to build a connection to your community than to give back time and resources to those in need. Over the past 11 years, we have partnered with a number of organizations including the YWCA, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, United Way of Cass-Clay, Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic, Prairie Public Broadcasting, Inc. and many more. By offering these volunteer opportunities, we believe that we are not only providing a service to our non-profit community, but we allow our members to gain professional experience outside of the workplace, make connections with like-minded individuals and become a part of our greater community. We thank all those who have given their time and look forward to continue offering these opportunities in the future.

PROGRAM

Small Business SATURDAY

- November 26, 2016 -

It is a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which feature big box retail and e-commerce stores respectively. By contrast, Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers to patronize brick and mortar businesses that are small and local. Small Business Saturday always falls on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Launched in 2010 by American Express, Small Business Saturday® is dedicated to encouraging customers to get out and shop at small businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It’s since grown into a much larger movement, with many businesses and communities embracing the concept, offering specialized shopping experiences to show support of local goods and business.

Becoming a Neighborhood Champion means you can help raise awareness and support for local small businesses in your community. Looking for ideas and inspiration to get started? As a Neighborhood Champion, you will receive monthly emails with resources leading up to the day to help plan your Small Business Saturday event. You will also receive a Small Business Saturday Event Kit (while available) with Shop Small merchandise, including items like bags, balloons and more to support your activities.

There are many Chamber-member businesses, large and small, that offer outstanding products and services and work hard to better the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community. We hope you will consider shopping local in any of these merchants this holiday season. Are

Please shop small and shop local at Chamber member businesses!

Visit fmwfchamber.com for a full list of businesses.

The new 2016-17 LFMWF class hopped on the bus and headed west for a fun day at the Wesley Acre’s ropes course! Matt Weis, EDGECRAFT, facilitated a day full of teambuilding, leadership development and fun.

NEW CLASS HITS the Ropes

PROGRAM SPONSORS

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

McCulley Optix Gallery started 10 years ago when Dr. Melissa McCulley, owner and president, returned home to Fargo to establish a premier eye clinic and optical. Today, they provide eye exams for patients of all ages and carry a fabulous selection of designer eyewear and sunglasses. They perform patient eye exams three days a week and are open six days a week to help people find their perfect glasses.

Q: What makes your organization unique?

Many of the frame lines we carry are exclusive to our office, and in some cases we are the only office in North Dakota that carries them! We carry Dior, Jimmy Choo, Tom Ford, Tiffany & Co, Oliver Peoples and Lafont to name a few. Our entire staff strives to make the process of buying glasses fun. I see patients of all ages; infants to age 101 (my grandmother is my oldest patient!).

Q: Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now?

We are celebrating our 10-year anniversary this year! To celebrate this milestone, we are giving away $10,000 to local non-profits, nominated by the community. Our recipients so far have been BIO Girls, North Dakota Autism Center, Emergency Food Pantry, American Diabetes Association-Camp Sioux, and FM Sheltering Churches. We love having this opportunity to give back to the community that has been central to our success. More information about our giveaway can be found on our website and Facebook page.

Q: What is one thing you most want others to know about you?

This is such a great community that supports local business so well. Our best advertising comes from word-of-mouth referrals and the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community does just that!

Q: What’s your best business tip?

Always be honest with people and try to have a smile on your face when you can!

FAST FACTS

Total employees: Six Year founded: 2006

Office location: 2553 Kirsten Lane S., Fargo (corner of 25th St & 32nd Ave) Online: optixgallery.com facebook.com/McCulleyOptix

Interested in Having Your Business Highlighted in This Section?

The Member Spotlight section of The Bridge 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.

Keeping the Out of

Next time you turn on the tap, think of AE2S. This

More specifically, Advanced Engineering and Environmental water expertise for the greater good of the community. solutions provider, doing master planning, capital development and more.

This also includes specialized environmental engineering and Rocky Mountain region, as well as assistance information technology.

This busy group was first founded in 1991 in Grand 17 offices in six states and 44 employees in its Fargo

Since then, there is no doubt the organization has the AE2S team for the great quality of Fargo’s drinking water to West Fargo residents.

Community Hot Water

ONE DROP AT A TIME

This engineering firm quite simply, keeps the water running.

Environmental Services, or AE2S for short, focuses on providing community. From drinking water to wastewater, the AE2S team is a capital improvement, study and reporting, surveying, mapping, site

engineering consulting to clients throughout the upper Midwest assistance with funding assistance, public information, marketing and

Grand Forks by Steve Burian and Charlie Vein. AE2S currently has Fargo and Moorhead offices.

has been integral to our community in many ways. You can credit drinking water as well as the project that recently delivered Fargo

Their work has also helped protect our cities from recent floods. They’re extensively involved in the Fargo Water Treatment Plant improvements and expansion, the F-M Area Diversion, and the Red River Valley Water Supply projects.

Eric Dodds, program manager, says this is one of the reasons the work is so rewarding. “All of these projects have a community aspect to them,” he said. “They touch the lives of everyone across the community. It’s unique, fun, challenging, and so important.”

“All of [our] projects have a community aspect to them. They touch the lives of everyone across the community.”

– Eric Dodds, Program Manager

One of AE2S’ hallmarks is “extreme client service,” meaning they intend to provide service so outstanding that their clients will think of them as an extension of their own staff. “If our clients are happy, if we’re responsive to their needs and exceed their expectations, it means we can provide more services,” Dodds said. “That culture is paramount here, and within our team, it means that we can lean on each other, collaborate and build trust.”

AE2S gives back to our community in many ways, from its leaders serving on steering committees and boards, to participation in fundraisers and community events.

There are many faces at AE2S working behind the scenes, but folks like Daron Selvig, Heather Syverson, Tammy Jo Anderson Taft and Rocky Schneider are able to publicly represent the company by advocating for the issues and educating the community. Schneider has played an integral role in our own Public Affairs committee.

AE2S wants you to know that they appreciate the business community’s support of the Diversion and understanding of the importance of good infrastructure.

In short, you can always count on AE2S to keep our community out of hot water … but you can also count on them to keep that hot water running and keep up with community growth.

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES

Bell Bank has again been named by American Banker Magazine as one of the “Best Banks to Work For.” Bell was number one among banks with $3 billion to $10 billion in assets, and ranked third overall among only 60 banks to achieve “Best Bank” status. This is the fourth year for the program, a project of American Banker and Best Companies Group.

BlackRidgeBANK announced an endorsement agreement with Carson Wentz, former NDSU standout quarterback and the number two overall pick in the 2016 NFL draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. Under the agreement, Wentz has agreed to play an important role in the positioning of BlackRidgeBANK, BlackRidgeMORTGAGE, and BlackRidgeINSURANCE in their markets. He will appear in a range of promotional media primarily in the Fargo and Bismarck regions including radio, TV, billboards and print.

Midway through the year, housing activity looks strong in the F-M metro area encompassing Dilworth, Moorhead, Fargo and West Fargo. The Home Builders Association of F-M’s second-quarter building permit report shows housing permits down just 7% compared to last year’s second quarter, which was the best since 2005. Compared to last year through June, single-family permits increased by 29 community-wide, while twin-home construction decreased by 52 permits. Row-house permits decreased by 32, and duplexes went from zero to 12. Housing permit values increased 5 percent over last year, from $130 million to $135.7 million through July.

“Every time we release a building permit report, we mention that the Home Builders Association of F-M supports the F-M Area Diversion project. The sustained economic growth of our region demonstrates a continued need to protect our communities. The Diversion doesn’t only protect Fargo, it ensures vitality for our entire metro area and everyone who lives and works here,” Tom Spaeth said.

InterOffice Workspace Furniture was awarded the HermanMiller Healthcare Dealer Performance Award for 2016. This is the second year in a row that InterOffice has received this honor. InterOffice is a commercial furniture and interior design firm located in downtown Fargo.

Marco announced that it has purchased Document & Network Technologies (DNT), a copier/printer and business IT services company located in St. Louis. Their 80 employees have joined the Marco team. DNT has been providing their clients with copiers/printers, managed services, IT services, shredding and imaging services for over 15 years. This purchase allows Marco to further expand its geographic footprint and technical services in the state of Missouri. This is the 14th acquisition the company has completed over the past three years.

The September issue of Prairie Business magazine celebrated the 50 Best Places to Work in the northern Plains. Companies were nominated through an anonymous employee survey that outlined work environment, employee benefits and employee happiness. Now in the third year of conducting the Best Places to Work contest, Prairie Business received nearly 950 surveys. The following Chamber members all made this year’s 50 Best Places to Work list.

• Alerus

• Border States Electric

• Cornerstone Bank

• Corporate Technologies LLC

• Dakota Supply Group

• DFC Consultants Ltd.

• EAPC Architects Engineers

• Eide Bailly LLP

• First International Bank & Trust

• Gate City Bank

• Great North Insurance Services

• H2M

• Houston Engineering Inc.

• ICON Architectural Group

• Integrity Windows and Doors

• JLG Architects

• KLJ

• Liberty Business Systems Inc.

• Marco

• MetroPlains Management

• Midco

• Minnkota Windows

• Mortenson

• Network Center Inc.

• Nexus Innovations Inc.

• Obermiller Nelson Engineering Inc.

• Odney

• Preference Personnel

• RDO Equipment Co.

• Starion Financial

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

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

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

AARP

• Josh Askvig, State Director

Absolute Marketing Group

• Elisabeth Krabbenhoft, Web Project Manager

AE2S

• Benjamin Hamilton, Web Designer/Developer

• Joe Herbst, Real Estate Program Coordinator

Bell Bank

• Carrie Nett, VP/Facilities Manager

• Joshua Schwarz, Credit Officer

• Tom Scheid, Personal Banking Officer

Bell Bank Wealth Management

• Jonny Berg, Trust Officer

• Angie LeClair, Trust Officer

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Premier Properties

• Kathryn Anderson, Realtor

• Collin Hegerle, Realtor

Border States Electric

• James Sipe, Strategy Enablement Director

Cornerstone Bank

• Ryan Walen, Compliance Specialist

Dawson Insurance

• Kelli Emerson, Commercial Lines Account Assistant

DCN

• Dana Eckart, Account Executive

Eide Bailly LLP

• Kirsten Henagin, Technology Advisory Associate

Essentia Health

• Tadeu Ambros, Hematolotist & Oncologist

• Brent Ancona, Hospitalist Department

• Melissa Blom, Rheumatologist

• Aubrey Hess, Family Medicine Department

Essentia Health

• Aaron Jones, Radiologist

• Neil Karjalainen, Anesthesiologist

• Marwan Abu Minshar, Nephrology Department

• Nicole Wielandt, Anesthesiologist Fargo Country Club

• Martin Hayes, Sommelier & Assistant Food and Beverage Director

First Class Mortgage

• Kari Kleingartner, Marketing Director

• Chantel Nye, Mortgage Loan Processor Gehrtz Construction Services

• Jeff Lekatz, Construction Manager

• Ben Naylor, Construction Manager Great North Insurance

• Stephanie Dosmann, Accounting Specialist

• Jamie Hartje, Client Care Specialist

• Naomi Schempp, Account Executive Great Plains Food Bank

• Stacey Belka, Secretary

• Nancy Johnson, Chair-Elect

• David Maring, Chair

• Marti Sunderlin, Treasurer Hospice of the Red River Valley

• Sue Sorensen, Community Relations Specialist IPAT

• Carol Gunkelman Anhorn, Representative

• Sister Kathleen Atkinson, Representative

• Kathy Hogan, Representative

• Mike Keller, Representative

• Marshall McCullough, Vice Chair

• Pete Silbernagel, President

• Kevin Warner, Secretary/Treasurer

minshar

JONES

nye

belka

sorensen

silbernagel

wielandt

KARJALAINEN

dosmann

johnson

atkinson

warner

hayes

hartje

maring

hogan

kleingartner

schempp

sunderlin

mccullough

uglem

BECKSTROM-PILON

Network Center, Inc.

• Ashley Dyste, Business Dev. Manager

• Kody Krier, Support Specialist

• Joshua Roberts, Support Specialist

• Katie Schuler, Software Developer

• Alex Paulson, Application Developer

Paces Lodging Corporation

• Michael Lopez, Systems Administrator Park Co. Realtors

• April Leinen, Realtor Starion Financial

• Dan Staller, Chief Banking Officer Learn’n Move Childcare Center/ TNT Kid’s Fitness

• Heidi Uglem, Director Western State Bank

• Stephanie Beckstrom-Pilon, Customer Care Banker

Awards, Certifications and Other News

Two Bell Bank employees, Shelly Kegley and Doug Burchill, both senior vice presidents and commercial loan officers, finished graduate school of banking programs. The schools provide bankers with an opportunity for advanced study and research in banking, economics and leadership.

Cornerstone Bank Home Mortgage Consultant Josh McMenamy was voted Affiliate of the Year for the Fargo/ Moorhead Area Association of Realtors. McMenamy serves on the association’s programs committee and mentors new agents.

Jared Maher has been named a member of the 2016 President’s Council of New York Life. Members of the President’s Council are among the top 5% of New York Life’s elite force of 12,000 licensed agents. Maher has been a New York Life agent since 2001.

Bobbi Munkeby CLU, ChFC has been named a member of the 2016 Executive Council of New York Life Insurance Company. Members of the Executive Council are among the most successful of New York Life’s elite sales force. Munkeby has been a New York Life agent since 1997.

Kevin and Lora Elfstrum, owners of Sir Speedy in Fargo received a Century Club award, placing them in an elite group of Sir Speedy franchises worldwide. The Century Club sales achievement award recognizes 100 of the top franchises in the entire network for outstanding sales achievement in 2015.

Bill Tweten, the lead designer at Western Products in Fargo, has been accredited as a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Tweten is the only designer in the FargoMoorhead area to earn this prestigious certification.

dyste

paulson krier leinen roberts staller schuler

NEW MEMBERS

The Chamber encourages all members to conduct business with each other. Those listed below recently have made an important investment in their businesses and their professional careers by joining The Chamber. Please consider them for your personal and professional needs. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber!

Altaire Medical Spa

altairemedspa.com

Medical - Clinics

Altaire Medical Spa delivers real results using the highest level of training, knowledge, products and state-of-art technology. Altaire Medical Spa believes beauty comes from within. They work to enhance your natural, unique appearance to reveal your best self.

Bank of North Dakota

bnd.nd.gov

Financial Institutions

BND is an agile partner that creates financial solutions to current and emerging economic needs. Through student loans or loans for entrepreneurs, infrastructure support, agriculture or business expansion, BND strives to make North Dakota better.

Bully Brew Coffee House

bullybrewcoffeehouse.com

Coffee & Tea

Bully Brew’s mission is to enrich as many lives as they can by serving great coffee and great food with a smile. They have found success with the connection of people, coffee and dogs. They are a local coffee house serving fresh baked goods and freshly roasted coffee beans.

Cass County Farm Bureau

701. 361.7844

Agriculture Products

The Cass County Farm Bureau is an association of people interested in rural affairs. Farm Bureau preserves the freedom of the individual farmer to think, say or work for what he believes, yet unites the power of all its members in support of one decision made by a majority vote. Thru FB, farmers make their convictions heard.

Cass County Irrigation

701.781.4416

Landscape - Contractors & Designers

CCI provides complete lawn care/irrigation/landscaping service in the Red River Valley and lakes country.

Deep Blue Seafood

dbseafood.com

Retail Stores

Now, seafood fans in Fargo can dive into Deep Blue Seafood: the metro’s first independently sourced fresh fish market. You’ll find all your favorite varieties and some you may not know. They have live lobsters, oysters, Alaskan salmon, crabs, sea scallops, plus an ever-changing selection of season varieties. Everything Amish

everythingamishnd.com

Furniture - Home

Welcome to the world of hand-crafted Amish furniture. Their Amish builders specialize in custom-designed furniture to fit any need. Choose the design, wood type, and stain color of your choice and their builders do the rest. Their furniture is built to last a lifetime and they stand by their products.

FM Antiques and Repurposed Market

farmantiques.weebly.com

Retail Stores

FM Antiques and Repurposed Market have 50+ vendors selling a variety of antique/vintage or repurposed items.

FM City Development bisonblockfargo.com

Apartments

FM City Development is a limited liability company that owns the Bison block development across the street from NDSU. It is a mixed-use building of commercial spaces as well as apartments that caters to NDSU students, staff and faculty.

Green House Cafe facebook.com/GreenHouseCafeFargo

Restaurants

Green House is a family restaurant offering delicious food from scratch, with options for everyone. They look to use local products to give back to the community, while serving the community.

Heritage Insurance Services heritageinsservices.com

Insurance

Heritage Insurance Services works with over 60 insurance providers to give you the best home, auto, business, farm, crop and life insurance policies, at an affordable price!

Insperity

insperity.com

Employee Benefit Plans

Insperity is dedicated to helping businesses succeed by helping control expenses, minimize risk exposure and maximize opportunities for revenue generation.

Logo 2 Promo logo2promo.com

Advertising - Promotional Products

Logo 2 Promo is here as advisers to help you choose the best logo branded promotional items, clothing or other items for your business advertising needs. They are a locally owned and family operated business.

Monitor Marketing monitormarketing.com

Advertising

Monitor Marketing is a digital media company offering dynamic advertising solutions to all types of businesses, through an indoor digital advertising network throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Music Therapy In Motion musictherapyinmotion.com

Health Care Services

Music Therapy in Motion, LLC offers effective treatment and therapy via music interaction, stimulation, and relaxation to individuals of all ages and abilities. They offer services throughout the F-M areas, individual and group settings, services are provided at their clinic, at home or on location.

North Dakota Farm Bureau

ndfb.org

Associations

NDFB is an independent, statewide, non-governmental, voluntary organization dedicated to improving opportunities and prosperity for all North Dakotans by advocating for our state’s largest, renewable, economic sector: agriculture.

Protosthetics LLC protosthetics.com

Manufacturers

Protosthetics designs, manufactures, and distributes affordable prosthetic and orthotic devices in order to improve the lives of people suffering from limb loss across the world.

Tutor Doctor

tutordoctor.com/fargo Education - Training

Tutor Doctor provides one-on-one in home tutoring service to all ages and all subjects.

Vance Thompson Vision vancethompsonvision.com

Medical - Ophthalmologists - Optometrists

Vance Thompson Vision changes lives by creating vision. They do this by always doing the right thing, only using the world’s most advanced technology and creating a customer experience second to none.

CELEBRATIONS August Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreakings

Ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings 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.

CITY OF WEST FARGO

Demolition ceremony for Sheyenne Street Project Fourth Avenue East & Sheyenne Street, West Fargo westfargond.gov

Grand opening celebration 3225 51st Street South, Fargo eventide.org

FARGO PUBLIC SCHOOLS HOCKEY FACILITY Sixth Street and 32nd Avenue West, West Fargo west-fargo.k12.nd.us

Grand opening celebration 4720 Seventh Ave. S., Suite B, Fargo fivestarcallcenters.com

DAKOTA COMMONS

Grand opening celebration 3865 Fourth Street East, West Fargo metroplains.com

FARGO PARK DISTRICTRUSTAD RECREATION CENTER

Grand opening celebration 601 26th Avenue East, West Fargo wfparks.org

Grand opening celebration 1900 28th Avenue South, Moorhead minnesota.edu

Grand opening celebration 855 12th Avenue Northeast, West Fargo auersteel.com

10-year anniversary celebration 3357 39th Street South, Suite 1, Fargo sbsnd.com

Groundbreaking 200 Third Street North, Fargo cityoffargo.com

Remodel celebration 1400 Elm Street North, Fargo fargoparks.com

Grand opening celebration 749 23rd Ave East, Suite B, West Fargo profileplan.net

Grand opening celebration 68 Broadway North, Suite 101, Fargo facebook.com/GreenHouseCafeFargo

GREEN HOUSE CAFE

MEET THE VOLUNTEERS

Learn more about some of our dedicated committee members. This is just one of the many people who help us do all that we do. We thank all for their support and service.

AMANDA CARLSON

Young Professionals Network committee chair

Agency Manager/ State Farm Insurance, Jay Bartley Agency

Q: What do you do when you’re not working?

I love to bake: pies, cookies, bars – anything. I also have gotten into running quite a bit over the past year.

Q: What is best about living and working in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo?

There is a strong sense of community and support throughout our region. Raising a family and being a young professional in this area has caused me to appreciate the opportunities that me and my family are given by living here. Great schools, safe neighborhoods, leadership opportunities for young professionals such as the Leadership program and YPN – there are a lot of things we should be proud of that our community offers.

Q: What do you like most about being involved with The Chamber?

Having been involved with the YPN for the past three years, I have really appreciated the friendships and the business connections that I have made with others that are outside my industry. It’s not often you have the ability to meet hundreds of others in your age group that are also interested in sharing professional insight and camaraderie.

Q: What is one thing you would like other people to know about your committee?

I am the chair of the YPN and I just have to say that our entire Leadership team is amazing. It is full of go-getters who are excited to make this the best year yet for the YPN. They are leaders within their businesses and within our community. They all care about running each committee efficiently and effectively. This is going to be a great year to be a part of the YPN!

Q: What is the best professional advice you have ever received? Be confident. My boss is great at lifting me up and constantly telling me that I am great at what I do and I should be proud of that. He has shown me that exuding confidence at work and in life is important because it creates trust and respect.

It’s never too early to start planning this year’s holiday celebration.

We have the perfect space whether your business family is large or small. With signature service and exquisite cuisine, our Sales Team treats each event uniquely and will assist you with every detail to make your holiday party a true success! Call 701-281-7164 to reserve the date for your Holiday Party.