October 2019 Bridge

THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL. 23 NO. 2

OCTOBER 2019

Announcing Women Connect's national speaker:

Marissa Orr on January 21

Community Builders

2 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.

On the cover:

Details for Women Connect’s anniversary event

Contents

18

October 2019

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Annual Meeting:

Highlights and photos from our year's celebration

6

Member profile:

Eide Bailly LLP

Ambassadors of the Year:

Congrats to these Chamber volunteers

12

35

7 Membership Matters 8 Business After Hours

14 Eggs & Issues

17 Business Training 19 Women Connect

21 Leadership FMWF

23 Professionals of Color

25 Young Entrepreneurs Academy 27 Young Professionals Network 28 New Members 32 Member News

34 Ribbon Cuttings

AD INDEX

27 Bell Bank

16 Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND

31 Boulger Funeral Home

22 Bremer Bank

30 Christianson's Business Furniture

31 Cole Papers, Inc.

24 Cornerstone Bank

26 Dakota Carrier Network

31 Eide Bailly LLP

27 Essentia Health

20 First International Bank & Trust

9 Four Points By Sheraton 22 Homewood Suites by Hilton 9 Indigo Signworks

30 J&M Printing

23 Knight Printing

24 Midco

23 Minnesota State University Moorhead

26 North Dakota State University

29 Network Center, Inc.

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

20 O.K. Tire Store

26 Pro Resources

For past issues of The Bridge: issuu.com/fmwfchamber.com

29 Starion Bank FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance Chair Sandi Piatz Microsoft Chair Elect Shawn Dobberstein Hector International Airport Treasurer Mark Nisbet Xcel Energy Immediate Past Chair Mike Dragosavich Spotlight Media Inc. Member at Large Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Moorhead Kevin Christianson Paces Lodging Corporation, Property Resources Group Kyle Dorow Essentia Health

MISSION The Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through leadership in advocacy, education and engagement

VISION The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business and members

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES •• Establish

the region as a full-service metropolitan marketplace.

•• Be

a bold voice for business through strong thought leadership and a rich policy agenda.

•• Build

a place of belonging to best serve members’ interests.

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Chad Flanagan Eide Bailly LLP

Steve Halverson Heartland Trust Company

THE CHAMBER STAFF

Brittany Montecuollo Sanford Health Joanna Slominski Mortenson

Peter Stenehjem First International Bank & Trust Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank

Jeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

Craig Whitney The Chamber

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Roger Reierson Flint Group

Craig Whitney President/CEO

@FMWFPrez

Jim Parsons

VP of Finance/Operations

@FMWFJim

Agribusiness

Julie Doggett

Information Systems Administrator

@FMWFJulieD

Darren Dunlop

Business Development Manager

@FMWFDarren

Jessica Broers Bremer Bank

Ambassador Public Relations

Scott Berg U.S. Bank

Ambassador Member Relations

Cory Holen Preference Employment Solutions

Business Training

Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Education co-chair Moorhead Louise Dardis Retired educator

Education co-chair

Erica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald Leadership FMWF House Charities

Darin Feir

Graphics & Publications Coordinator

@FMWFDarin

Tyler Fischbach

Multimedia Coordinator

@FMWFTyler

Amanda Huggett

Manager of Communications & Marketing

@FMWFAmanda

Katie Mastel

Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager

@FMWFKatie

Brian Shawn Midco Military Affairs

Trevor Mathew Choice Bank

Professionals of Color

Tim Flakoll Tri-College University Public Policy

Katie Hutton Eide Bailly LLP Women Connect

Danne Doering Choice Bank

Young Professionals Network

Tracy Meckler

Membership & Advertising Sales Manager

@FMWFTracyM

Tracy Powell

Director of Events & Programs

@FMWFTracyP

Alyssa Ralston

Professional Development Coordinator

@FMWFAlyssa

Katie Ralston

Education Initiatives and YEA! Manager

@FMWFKatieR

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.

Printed by Forum Communications Printing

Bobbi Rehder Events Coordinator

@FMWFBobbiJo 4 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Casey Sanders

Manager of Membership

@FMWFCasey

Mickayla Thompson Member Relations Coordinator

@FMWFMickayla

Julie Yourczek

Office Administrator

@FMWFJulieY

a note from the

PRESIDENT You’ve heard me reference The Chamber’s new fiscal year, which started September 1. As we’ve begun heading into this year, we have exciting plans we can’t wait to share with you.

Voices of Vision Typically our biggest event of the year is once again upon us. A series we started 10 years ago is certainly a concept that is working for our region.

Voices of Vision is consistently sold out and the speaker quality continues to raise the bar.

This year we’ve got a touch down with Peyton Manning headlining the 2019 event. Many members that have already heard Peyton speak say he is bright and witty, and we know he will impart much wisdom—and probably some laughs—when he takes the stage next month. A few arena seats are still left, so we hope you can join us!

Reflections on the Annual Meeting Last month we hosted our Ninth Annual Meeting, which serves as a celebration of our chamber’s and community’s accomplishments, honors volunteers and recognizes the Legacy Leader. This year was our largest Annual Meeting yet, with 800 attendees. We try to make this event exciting and informative. Rather than a report of financials or voting agendas, it’s truly about shining light on the successes of those who make our region great by sharing the work of our committees and volunteers.

With another record year of membership and events, we’re so proud to represent this community and will keep striving to offer the best programs, events, networking, community advancement, business representation, advocacy and membership benefits.

Find our newest strategic goals just to your left, and a brief recap of some of our proudest accomplishments on the next page.

Women Connect You probably noticed our latest announcement on this month’s cover.

We’re excited to welcome another outstanding speaker to the stage for January’s Women Connect event.

Last year, Rachel Hollis rocked the SHAC with our biggest crowd ever— and this year, Marissa Orr is bringing her fresh perspective on women in the workplace to the Delta by Marriott. We believe we have another great plan that has the potential to inspire women in our community.

This program is one that fills a unique niche for our region. Prior to the launch of Women Connect, we took our time to survey if this program had a need in the region, and the answer was a resounding yes. The mission of Women Connect is to bring women together in a unique, courageous forum that will build connections, provide a space to be brave and explore what leadership means both personally and professionally.

Marissa has a message that many have talked about, but in a new, unique way. The reviews of her new book are extremely positive as she tackles diversity and female leadership. Her book is top of the Amazon best-seller lists, and we hope your team can make it out to see her this January.

Craig Whitney President / CEO The Chamber @FMWFPrez

Of course, much more is in the works, so stay tuned to see even more work from our programs, events and membership offerings.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 5

Highlights from the 2019 Annual Meeting

Our biggest Annual Meeting yet was a great success and celebration of our chamber, community, volunteers and members. About 700 at the Holiday Inn heard highlights of our past fiscal year from the chamber president and board chair, covering events, program, membership, advocacy and more.

Here are just a few highlights: • We held 102 events over 365 days— that’s one every 3.5 days!

• Fueling Our Future community initiative was launched in May, with 80% of the $5 million secured in funding • New committees—Education and Professionals of Color—started programming and efforts

Tom Dawson presents outgoing board chair Mark Nisbet a silly gift

• Public policy efforts included hosting a press conference on the importance of the Diversion, and opposing two ND statewide measures • Military Affairs committee hosted Joes for GIs for our first time, and helped area military with recruitment efforts, also growing our Honor Star program • Debuted a new and enhanced website

• Women Connect hosted the biggest event to date with Rachel Hollis and collected over 2,500 donations to local non-profits • YPN held the biggest yet Corporate Cup, debuted two new series, and hosted the first YP Week • Enhanced membership benefits and experiences, including Chamber 101 events

Steve Swiontek accepts the Legacy Leader award

Tom Dawson, incoming board chair, also offered a look ahead at our priorities and plans, shedding light on our membership initiatives, upcoming events and strategic plan.

We also honored our 2019 Legacy Leader, Steve Swiontek of Gate City Bank. Steve’s innovation, creativity, determination— and fun sense of humor—were highlighted through a video with remarks from his colleagues, friends and family. Just some of his accomplishments include serving in the ND legislature, financial giving to NDSU and the YWCA, leadership and programming for the financial industry, and his commitment to The Chamber and our community as a whole. Steve is a true champion and leader, and he received a standing ovation. In his own remarks, Steve encouraged everyone in attendance to seek need and create solutions for a better way of life.

Thanks to all our sponsors, attendees, volunteers and members!

We wouldn’t be what we are, or do what we do, without you!

Catch the full year in review video and Legacy Leader video on our Facebook or YouTube pages, or at www.fmwfchamber.com/2019-annual-meeting-report.

6 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

2018–19 committee chairs

Justin Forde, Midco PRESENTING SPONSOR

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

— MEMBER BENEFITS — Tips to maximize your membership through our online Member Information Center Through our new Member Information Center (we call it MIC for short), all employees of Chamber-member organizations can access this benefit and tool. You can create accounts to get more control of your information that is stored in our database and update your business name, address, logos, add staff members, and more. Log in at fmwfchamber.com/member-login.

From there, you can use this area to ensure that other members have the most up-to-date information to connect with you! If you are the main contact for your organization, you can enhance your company’s profile—here are just a few tips to get started.

1. Ensure your keywords are current.

This helps support your SEO efforts!

2. Include up to five highlights that your

business offers by using the 120 characters to describe a link out to your website. This will help generate more traffic to the areas you want others to learn about you.

3. Get back to the basics and ensure that you have a good business description to be displayed in the about section on your public directory page. You get up to 1,600 characters to share your story.

Chamber 101: Connect. Engage. Maximize.

Tuesday, October 15 | 4 to 4:45 p.m.* Thursday, October 17 | 9 to 9:45 a.m.* * 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead If you’re not familiar with The Chamber, are a new member, new contact, new hire, or just want to re-engage with us, this session is for you! Chamber 101 is a laid-back discussion designed to share some of the great benefits of Chamber membership and what opportunities you need to know about. No need to dress in business attire; come as you are!

Casey Sanders will walk you through events, programs, discounts, online tools and more, so you can begin maximizing your membership right away.

Can’t make these dates? Don’t worry! Chamber 101 will be back in December, February, April, June and August. Check our website or Facebook page for event details.

We can also bring Chamber 101 to you! Contact Casey at 218.359.0528 or csanders@fmwfchamber.com to set up a time where she can bring the presentation to your workplace.

FREE registration. Light refreshments provided. Optional networking at the end. RSVP at fmwfchamber.com.

SPONSORED BY

4. Is your business on social media?

Be sure to add an updated Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or LinkedIn link on your profile.

5. Add a search result description

to appear beneath your business name in the public directory, hours of operation, and if applicable, driving directions to help others know how to find you.

An example of a business profile enhanced through the MIC

+

BEFORE

and AFTER! FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 7

Tuesday, November 5

Sanford Health Athletic Complex

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

#FMWFBAH

Thursday October 17

Hilton Garden Inn Fargo

NEW TIME! 4 to 6 p.m.

See you at Business After Hours!

Bulls eye!

Connect with your peers and network with other businesses, snack on spooky snacks and devilishy good drinks at this month’s event.

October’s Game of Skillz is the Archery Target.

All attendees have the chance to win real money (!) just by playing at the event.

For every registered attendee, we donate $1 to a monthly prize. The winner of the Game of Skillz will receive half of the total amount.

The other half will go to the next month’s prize, until June when we award the total dollar amount accumulated.

8 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

SPONSORED BY

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CHAMBER EVENTS

A note from our sponsor Insurance Company "isNodak proud to once again be the

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presenting sponsor for The Chamber's Voices of Vision. We are excited to have one of the greatest NFL quarterbacks in history join us in Fargo. Peyton is known for his work ethic, philanthropy and his study of the game. We are looking forward to hearing his message and how his success on the field has turned into success off the field.

"

—Nodak CEO Jim Alexander PRESENTING SPONSOR

2

MEETINGS MADE SIMPLE At Four Points by Sheraton Fargo, we offer meeting space for up to 100 attendees*, on-site catering, and wall mounted TV with HDMI connection. Everything you need to make your meeting simple.

BOOK MEETING SPACE TODAY! CALL 701 364 0000 Four Points by Sheraton Fargo 5064 23rd Avenue South | Fargo, ND 58104 701 364 0000 | www.fourpoints.com/fargo *Number of attendees depends on desired seating style.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 9

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 nonprofit 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 a 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.

Welcome to our new Business Builder

Rasmussen College, LLC is a private college regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our diverse communities through in-demand, flexible, accessible and affordable educational programs. A pioneer in career-focused education since 1900, the college leads advancements in innovations such as employer-led and expert designed curriculum and comprehensive student support services to help working adults advance their educations.

Additionally, Rasmussen College is a nationwide leader in competency-based education. Rasmussen College offers undergraduate and graduate programs online and across its 23 Midwest and Florida campuses. The college encourages its students, faculty and staff to strive for academic excellence, community enrichment and service to the public good. rasmussen.edu

We are proud to call the following businesses our Business Builders:

Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. | Avis Rent A Car | Concordia College Heartland Trust Company | Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead | McGough Construction | Mortenson NDSU Research & Technology Park, Inc. | Network Center | Property Resources Group | Rasmussen College | ROERS Talecris Plasma Resources, A GRIFOLS Company | Vogel Law Firm | Walmart | West Acres Development, L.L.P.

Welcome new Community Builders!

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

GOLDMARK Property Management helps more than 30,000 residents thrive in their apartment communities. Founded and headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, Goldmark manages residential properties throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska. Goldmark is committed to creating a better way of living for customers and the communities served. goldmark.com Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI) is a multidisciplined consulting firm providing engineering, surveying, and environmental consulting services for more than 50 years. Founded in Fargo, HEI has 9 offices throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa, offering a full range of services that cover water resources, environmental issues, water supply, municipal, transportation, surveying, land and site development, waste management, and GIS. We utilize the latest technology to provide innovative solutions that produce results now and continue to provide value well into the future. houstoneng.com Office Sign Company creates affordable, professional office signs, door signs and conference room signs with a clean and contemporary look that will easily elevate your business's professionalism, efficiency and communications. officesigncompany.com

For More Information 10 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

To learn more about becoming a Premier Partner, contact Darren Dunlop at 218.359.0514 or ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

FAST FACTS

Total employees: 20 Year founded: 2005 Office location: Hawley, MN

Established in 2005, Implementation Specialists is a Hawley, Minnesota-based Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner with Advanced ERP Competency and Source Code Provider. We work with clients to select, implement and support Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) accounting software, KEY2ACT Signature Job Cost, Service Management & Mobile Tech, and other Dynamics GP ISV solutions. We work with clients across the United States with a focus on companies in our local area of Fargo and Moorhead, but work with companies as far as Australia. We specialize in financials and multi-state payroll/human resource implementations for mid to large enterprise companies.

— Chelsey Freng, Marketing Manager

What makes your organization unique?

Not only do we implement Microsoft Dynamics GP, we also have a development team that creates a series of tools for Dynamics GP and Key2Act Signature called wsTOOLS. With these tools, you can automate processes, intuitively find information quickly, easily make adjustments without affecting accuracy, improve visibility, and empower the workforce that uses Microsoft Dynamics GP, Job Cost, Service Management, and MobileTech. Our Dev team also provides custom development for custom tools.

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

We are currently working on social outreach and community participation.

What do you like best about doing business here?

What we like best about doing business locally is the small-town community with big-town goals. We also like to give back to the community that we do business out of, as well as supporting the local economy.

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

We are a woman owned company and more than 50% of employees are women.

What’s your best business tip?

A handwritten thank you note goes a long way with customers.

What do you like most about being a member of The Chamber?

What we like most about being a member of The Chamber is the sense of community and the knowledgeable events that we are able to attend.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 11

Young Professionals Best Place to Work

12 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

MEMBER PROFILE

At Eide Bailly,

accounting may be the game, but relationships remain supreme. And this top 25 CPA firm puts its young professionals at the core of its culture.

Eide Bailly promises a work experience like none other, and they deliver by encouraging growth, promoting from within and celebrating achievements.

Core values are built into their culture statement, and focus on respect, integrity, trust, innovation and creativity.

New hires receive an “Eide Guide” and career advisor to coach them through their development.

Their professionals are encouraged to take part in their EB Xchange program, which are experiences that last from six weeks to six months and provide exposure to new insights and knowledge in other firm specialties, with participants returning to their original service area on completion.” We have great YPs, and we want to give them the ability to explore opportunities within the firm,” said Chad Flanagan, Fargo Partner in Charge.

Eide Bailly’s YPs are highly involved in decision-making. They’re able to train new staff and interns, mentor, or serve as Career Advisors on initiatives like the Ambassador Program or First Focus Committee for advancing women in the accounting profession.

They offer unique benefits such as Tuition Reimbursement, Wellness Benefits, Flex Time, Infertility Coverage, Milk Delivery for Traveling Mothers, Pet Insurance and more.

Even in the busy season, they never lose sight of fun. That means having office parties with bingo, trivia, cookouts and the infamous Ten Key challenge.

Plus, a Corporate Responsibility initiative encourages giving back. Full-time employees are given a $200 corporate match to donate to a non-profit of their choice. This year, the Fargo and Bismarck offices matched over 80 donations for a total of nearly $14,000 on Giving Hearts Day. Employees are also given eight hours of paid time off to volunteer, and unlimited time to serve on boards and committees.

“We enable our employees, including our YPs, to utilize Eide Bailly’s influence in the market to better the community and quality of life,” Flanagan said. “We actively focus our community investments on the areas of education, leadership, community growth and economic development.” Just some of the causes their professionals volunteer with are Junior Achievement, the United Way of Cass Clay, YWCA Cass Clay, Rebuilding Together, Great North Pole, The Chamber, and service clubs including Rotary and Kiwanis.

Eide Bailly encourages giving back and offers volunteer hours to its employees.

A focus on their young professional development stems from planning for the future of the firm, as they know that their younger staff will soon become partners and owners. And, they know that a workplace that delivers a better experience for their staff will deliver a better experience for clients.

New hires and interns receive specific trainings for audit, tax and outsourced services, while managers attend specialized training known as NextGen, which prepares them for the next step in their career. Once named partner, professionals embark on a two-year program that allows partners across the firm to discuss questions and challenges associated with transitioning from employee to owner. They learn expectations of staff development, business development, ethics, client relationship development and more.

The Fargo office offers an internal lunch and learn series on services and industries within Eide Bailly. The Ambassador Program also helps professionals grow within the firm and develop necessary skills.

Behind Eide Bailly’s Women’s Initiative

In 2008, Eide Bailly developed a women’s initiative. The vision of the initiative, First Focus, was to nurture a culture where women are as likely to succeed as men. The need was identified after analyzing hiring and retention statistics. While they historically have hired new associates at a fairly even rate, the firm's partnership was only 21% women in 2008. Now, efforts include general communications awareness to the firm as a whole, as well as targeted communications to specific groups. Women are invited to a Focus Forum series, which dives deeper into these issues impacting women and gives them an outlet to discuss these topics. Today, the firm’s partnership sits at 30% women.

What do YPs at Eide Bailly have to say?

a culture of giving “ Fostering back means businesses build

a strong sense of community and become more attractive employers. @EideBaillyLLP matches donations, and we get time off to volunteer! Pretty sweet. Beyond that, the firm is always supporting local events, fundraisers, etc. I work with generous people!

”

—Anna Larson Social Media Strategist

my first day as an “ From intern I could tell that Eide

Bailly was different from any company that I had worked for previously. The firm not only had a clear mission of maintaining a work/life balance while providing outstanding service to our trusted clients, but they also lived that mission.

“

—Dustin Long

Audit Senior Manager

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 13

EGGS & ISSUES

Report card on area k-12 education from our local A+ superintendents

Our schools are on the grow and looking to collaborate! These were the themes from all three k-12 superintendents representing our public school districts at September’s Eggs & Issues. These local learning leaders sat down with nearly 200 attendees to share updates, strategies and plans for their respective districts. Here’s what we learned.

Rupak Gandhi

Beth Slette

• 1,100 students graduated through adult education program

• Grows between 4 and 600 students a year

• 23 facilities

• 20 schools currently, but a new school has opened every year for the last several years

• 11,513 students, sitting as the second largest district in ND

• 11,501 enrolled—only 12 students behind Fargo • 3,100 employees—and 100 new professional staff hired this year

• Fourth largest employer in the region with 3,364 employees

“There are no two learners that are the same,” Gandhi said. “We’re looking at how to provide different environments for each child… a nurturing, supportive environment.”

“Students do better when they have ownership over their learning, so you’ll see our districts moving toward personalized learning and offering choice.”

Brandon Lunak • 8 facilities

“It is challenging to keep up with the growth,” Slette said. “This is a time of growth and a time of opportunity.”

West Fargo saw just over 1,000 kindergartners come in this year, but have the biggest growth in the middle schools. A portion of sixth graders are being served at the new Deer Creek, then will be the first students in the upcoming Heritage Middle School. They also have the first electric school bus in the state— but need more bus drivers. They’re looking at personalized curriculums as well, and have had many upgrades at their facilities.

• 7,066 students enrolled—the highest since 1972!

What can we do as the business community to help our schools? The panel said to build connections, recognize the scope and value of education, partner with them, and offer a voice for what employers today need.

“We’re all in this room together,” Lunak said.

We’re trying to build strong communities. It doesn’t start and end with us; we’re all pieces in a puzzle.”

The superintendents also discussed revenue and funding, expenditures, diversity, mental health and safety, and took questions from the audience.

#FMWFEGGS

• Largest employer in Moorhead with 1,018 employees An underrepresented area is the homeless population, and Moorhead schools are looking at ways to identify those families to get those students the services they need.

Updates from Congressman Armstrong Congressman Kelly Armstrong visited with Chamber members during the beginning of September to share with us what it has been like in his first year serving in the United States House of Representatives for North Dakota.

Armstrong’s term began January 3, 2019, and he serves on the House Judiciary Committee and House Oversight and Reform Committee for the 116th Congress.

One of the highest priorities for Rep. Armstrong is getting the United States Mexico Canada Trade Agreement passed. Speaking to the importance of agriculture in the Midwest, 14 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Armstrong assured this is one of the key issue’s he is pushing for. When asked what the challenge with getting this passed was, the Congressman explained the politics behind getting it to the floor for a vote. He felt confident many of his colleagues are on board with the passage of this trade agreement, however Democratic House leadership will need to allow it to come to the floor for a vote. Some of the other issues that the Representative discussed were in relation to affordable housing, the budget deficit, criminal justice reform and procedures relating to the legislative process.

EGGS & ISSUES Tuesday, October 1 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. —NEW LOCATION DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center

Carey Fry

Workforce Manager Job Service ND

Thomas Hill

VP Community Impact, United Way of Cass-Clay

Kelsey Kasten HR Manager, Cardinal IG

Matthew Peterson Fargo Asst. Director of Transportation MATBUS

Wednesday, November 6

7:30 to 9 a.m. | Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

Capt. Andrew Frobig Cass County Jail Administrator

Leann Bertsch Director, ND Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

The Route to Removing Barriers for Employment: United Way Workforce Transportation Project

Incarceration and Rehabilitation: A Look into our Criminal Justice System

With nearly 20,000 jobs, the Fargo Industrial Park is an important driver for the local, regional and statewide economy. More than 40 businesses manufacture and create goods that are exported all over the globe, and the need to fill more positions is needed to keep this economic engine running. One consistent barrier was the lack of reliable public transportation, which hadn’t been available since the 1990s…until now.

Join us as we bring in experts on our criminal justice system. Our speakers will address where we currently are in regard to public policy, occupancy rates, services and collaborative efforts, and speak to the direction they anticipate we are headed in these areas. It is important that we as the business community understand this issue as it affects our workforce challenges and personal relationships.

Come join the conversation about what work is being done to ensure individuals in our criminal justice system are reintegrated into society as productive citizens in our community. Along with an interesting and informative discussion, you can count on hot coffee and breakfast at this morning event!

Through an innovative collaborative effort among United Way of Cass-Clay, MATBUS, the City of Fargo and private businesses and investors, an on-demand bus service via TapRide technology launched in August. Join us to learn about the genesis of this collaboration and how United Way is working collaboratively to increase access and remove barriers so more people can access good jobs, and employers can fill their workforce needs. As always, we’ll have coffee and conversation flowing, and hot breakfast served!

REGISTRATION includes breakfast

Chamber members: $32 in advance | $42 at the door Non-members: $52 in advance | $62 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Bank of the West | Beverage Wholesalers | Bremer Bank | Cornerstone Bank Dabbert Custom Homes | Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead | Houston Engineering KLJ | Livewire | Midwest Radio of Fargo Moorhead | Minnesota State Community and Technical College Moore Engineering | ROERS | Sparklight | Wanzek Construction | Wells Fargo Bank NA

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 15

Worksite Wellness Summit

Monday, Oct. 21, 2019 • Fargo, ND

An event to inspire healthier employees The 2019 Worksite Wellness Summit by BCBSND will help you cultivate greater employee health. Four inspiring speakers will share fresh ideas on integrating employee well-being strategies into your workplace. As a wellness champion, you won’t want to miss this event to help you start a wellness program or improve the one you have.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Patty de Vries

Dr. Jill Nelson

Stanford University

North Dakota State University

Leading with Psychological Safety

Creating a Culture of Courage

Sarah Nikle Edward Jones Investments

Kat Perkins

Financial Wellness

Living Fearlessly

Learn more and register at BCBSND.com/Summit

Powered by Blue Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross & Blue Shield Association

The Worksite Wellness program is part of BlueElements, a broad spectrum of programs and services focusing on the six elements that affect health and well-being.

Caring

FOUNDATION

BUSINESS TRAINING

Building Cohesive Teams:

A Roadmap to Effective Teamwork in Today’s Workplace

Wednesday, October 9 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

(Note: this is an extended two-hour training)

Holiday Inn Fargo

In today’s high-paced and diverse workplace, many leaders, teams and organizations find it difficult to effectively work together and execute on their projects and strategic plans. This workshop Ole Rygg builds on Patrick Lencioni’s Five Corporate Elements LLC Behaviors of Cohesive Teams. olerygg In this interactive two-hour session, you will receive a roadmap and practical advice on how to improve organizational results by building truly cohesive and effective teams in your business.

REGISTRATION includes lunch

Wednesday, November 20

The Focus Mindset: How to Stay on Task in a Distracted World

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hilton Garden Inn

We live in a world with 70,000 thoughts that travel through our head a day. Thoughts that come and go no matter what we do. Of those thoughts, 80% are either rooted in the past or the future, with only 20% in the present. More alarming is that only half of those thoughts are positive, and half of those are relevant to what you are doing. With a human attention span only lasting 8 seconds, how do we ever accomplish anything?

Karla Wolford

Elevate Human Potential and EHP CrossFit

This session will equip you with the tools to know what thoughts to keep in your focus window so you can stay on task at work and hit the goals you set out to reach. Attendees will also learn to identify common workplace distractions, triggers, and action steps to take to regain focus.

Chamber members: $32 in advance | $42 at the door Non-members: $52 in advance | $62 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

These events qualify for 1.5 CPE credits through SHRM

A LOOK AT last month

Thank you to all that attended the most recent Business Training!

#FMWFTraining

SPEAKERS:

Nicole Turchin, CoreLink Administrative Solutions

AND

Kurtis Karn, Discovery Benefits, a WEX company

TOPIC:

What Would Bill Murray Do?

LOCATION: Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management Minnesota State Community and Technical College | TrueIT | Wanzek Construction, Inc. FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 17

2020 Annual Celebration featuring Marissa Orr Tuesday, January 21, 2020 3 to 5 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Every attendee gets a FREE copy of her book!

Marissa Orr

Author of Lean Out: The Truth About Women, Power and the Workplace

An Amazon best-seller!

About Orr

Why Lean Out?

Featured in Forbes, Fox, Yahoo! Finance and CNBC, Lean Out is not simply a retort to Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In, but a revolutionary path forward with the power to change the lives of men and women in the corporate world and beyond. With her unique insight, Marissa brings an entirely new and fresh perspective on diversity and female leadership. Blending humor and irreverence with deeply researched points of view, she is mercilessly on point and quickly endears herself to any audience.

Orr’s vision is a revolutionary path forward that has the power to change the lives of men and women in the corporate world and beyond. Blending poignant and humorous insights from her time in the corporate trenches with in-depth research, and as a New Jersey-based single mom of three young children, Orr calls for a complete overhaul to the business world’s limited, carefully constructed paradigm of what constitutes a successful leader in today’s day and age.

Marissa Orr is a former Google and Facebook executive, bestselling author and leadership speaker. Spending 15 years working at today’s top tech giants, she has conducted talks for thousands of people in the U.S., Europe and Asia-Pacific. Her debut book, Lean Out, The Truth About Women, Power, & the Workplace, was released by Harper Collins Leadership in June 2019 and is an Amazon bestseller.

Follow Marissa on Twitter and Instagram @marissabethorr and on Medium @marissaorr.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

18 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Orr spent 15 years working at today’s top tech giants, forming her views on leadership, gender and teamwork. More than 50 years since the passage of the Equal Pay Act, the wage gap still hovers at 80%. Half a billion dollars are spent annually on corporate diversity programs, yet only 5% of CEOs in the Fortune 500 are women. So we ask: What have we gotten wrong about women at work?

What have others said about seeing Marissa live?

“With humor and grace, she challenged us to look at things from a wholly new and useful perspective; one which we’d not heard before, and one we’ve been talking about ever since.”

—David Mishkin MD, FACEP Chief Innovation Officer, Sheridan Health

WOMEN CONNECT

Integrated Leadership:

Friday, October 25

How to Use Mindfulness Practices to Lead with Intention

The sheer frenetic pace of our lives and global landscape in our work contributes to the complexity of leading well. Leading in the 21st century must address the human need for connectedness. Doing so has the potential to empower our individual and collective future.

3:30 to 5 p.m.

Delta by Marriott

Lonnie Pederson Executive Director Jeremiah Program

JeremiahFargo

This session will explore the attributes of Midwest leaders and has the potential to inform your leadership practice from the inside out. Learn to build the case for viewing life and livelihood as integrated elements; nurture the attributes of integrity, respect, compassion; develop HR and policy implications to build connectedness to organizational mission, vision and values; and consider initiatives that respect each employees' unique needs.

Charity of the month: Boys and Girls Club of the Red River Valley— Please consider bringing boxes of Kleenex to donate to them.

REGISTRATION

Tuesday, November 19 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Delta by Marriott

Women frequently express that they don’t feel they deserve their job and are “imposters” who could be found out at any moment. Many recent studies (and self-experiences) have found that women worry more about being disliked, appearing unattractive, outshining others or grabbing too much attention. So Briana Scearcy Chief People Officer how can you get around that, how Stoneridge Software can you overcome those times of bscearcy self-doubt so that you can move forward? This session will explore various habits that can help decrease that destructive inner voice and seize opportunities.

In this session, learn how to say stop so that when inner doubts bubble up, you don’t let them grow; how to look behind with dedicated reflection; and learn the idea of course-correction and its benefits in eliminating self-doubt.

Charity of the month: YWCA Cass Clay—Please consider bringing disinfectant wipes or hand soap to donate to them.

Chamber members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door

A look at last month

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Women Connect making a difference #FMWFWC

Thank you to all that attended the most recent Women Connect!

SPEAKER:

Shut Up, Self Doubt!

CHARITY OF THE MONTH:

Hannah Sorenson, Alerus TOPIC: Owning your wealth LOCATION: DoubleTree by Hilton, West Fargo

Habitat For Humanity

ITEMS COLLECTED: Cleaning supplies WHO THIS HELPS: People moving into

their new homes

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Bell Bank | Bremer Bank | Choice Bank | Delta by Marriott | Discovery Benefits | Essentia Health | Eventide Senior Living Communities First International Bank & Trust | Gate City Bank | Implementation Specialists | Microsoft | Minnesota State Community and Technical College Office Sign Co. | Otter Tail Corporation | Rasmussen College | Vogel Law Firm | WDAY | Wells Fargo Bank NA | Western State Bank

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 19

coming soon!

fall 2019

new location 3324 47th St S, Fargo 20 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

In the meantime, stop by and visit us anytime at 2224 Main Ave, Fargo!

LEADERSHIP FMWF

After last month’s orientation, the new 2019-20 LFMWF class had their session out west in Dazey, North Dakota! Participants hopped on a bus early on Friday, September 13, and headed out to Wesley Acres Camp and Retreat enter ropes course. Matt Weis from EDGECRAFT facilitated a day full of team building, leadership development and fun.

#FMWFLeadership

New Class Hits the Ropes

Special thank you to Matt Weis of EDGECRAFT The 2019 ropes course day marked Matt Weis’ 20th year of facilitating the Leadership FMWF ropes course!

For two decades, Matt has been building our Leadership participants leadership skills and finding ways to apply the lessons to both their personal and professional lives. The ropes course day is one of the favorite days of the Leadership program every year, and that is in large part because of Matt’s facilitation! A huge thank you to Matt, for continuing to provide excellent training and value to our Leadership participants of the past, present and future!

PROGRAM SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 21

We’ll help you do more, and do better We see you working hard every day to ensure your business, your employees and your community thrive. We see you evolving to meet the demands of a changing marketplace.

At Bremer Bank, we know what it takes to juggle the financial needs of today with your plans for tomorrow, and we’re here to help.

Let’s see what we can do together. Learn more at bremer.com.

Member FDIC

NEXT ON THE AGENDA: NEXT ON THE AGENDA: NEXT THE AGENDA: NEXT ON ON THEtime AGENDA: some to relax

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22 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

Jazz Reception

POC Mission Statement

Thursday, October 17 Reception: 6:30 p.m., Performance: 7:30 p.m.

MSUM - Hansen Theatre | Cost: $15

To impact the FMWF community by creating inclusive opportunities for Professionals of Color to develop personally and professionally through meaningful engagement and a sense of belonging.

Join POC for a pre-performance reception leading up to the Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra at MSUM’s Hansen Theatre! MSUM is offering members of The Chamber’s POC program discounted tickets to the performance. Cost includes ticket to the performance and light appetizers at the reception. Cash bar will be available. *Not sure if you are a member or want to bring a non-member guest with you? Contact Alyssa at aralston@fmwfchamber.com to learn about POC membership opportunities and pricing options.

$45 Chamber members | $75 non-members For more information about upcoming events, visit fmwfchamber.com.

Highlights from August

In September, the Professionals of Color hosted their first Network Before 9, morning networking over coffee. The event was held just after this Bridge was printed, so watch for photos next month!

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota | GOLDMARK Property Management | Midco

MSUM PASEKA SCHOOL OF BUSINESS PRESENTS

Transforming Workplaces: Getting Ready for Gen Z Thursday, October 24, 2019 8 a.m. - Noon | Center for the Arts Hansen Theatre, MSU Moorhead Featuring Jason Dorsey, Gen Z & Millennial Authority, Global Researcher, and Best-selling Author Register at mnstate.edu/tickets Minnesota State University Moorhead is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Four-Color Printing Specialized Coatings Foil & Embossing Die Cutting

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

Fargo, ND 58103 USA ph: 701.235.1121 knightprinting.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 23

#FMWFPOC

Program cost per year:

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT Put Midco® Business’ state-of-the-art, weather-hardened data centers to work for you, and sleep soundly knowing your IT capital is secured.

READY TO MIDCO? LET’S GO. Midco.com/DataCenters • 1.800.888.1300 © 2019 Midcontinent Communications. All rights reserved.

24 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

YEA! YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY

YEA! Gets Underway!

We're ready to kick off our fifth Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) class this month and we can't wait to see the ideas that emerge from the program this year.

Follow @FMWFKatieR and @fmwfyea on Twitter for updates throughout the year.

We continue to be grateful for the partnership we have with area schools and we wouldn't have students to fill the class without the support we've received from administrators, teachers and counselors. Over 2,000 students learned about YEA! this year through classroom presentations and back to school night booths. With so many YEA! graduates still in middle and high school, we were even able to utilize them in our marketing efforts to share their firsthand experiences of the program!

Once again, we'll kick off our classes at the Concordia College Offutt School of Business before moving to North Dakota State University and Minnesota State University Moorhead. Stay tuned as you'll get to meet the YEA! class of 2020 next month!

See our YEA! video that was shown to students!

bit.ly/FMWFYEA19

#FMWFYEA

YEA! in the News During our fall recruitment, we were fortunate to have great media coverage of our program. We really appreciate the opportunity to talk about YEA! on North Dakota Today, AM Fargo-Moorhead with Mike Kapel, and It Takes Two with Amy and JJ. YEA! graduate, Ivy Mastrud, even got to take part in one of the interviews!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Aldevron | The Boiler Room | Bremer Bank | Concordia College Dawson Insurance | Eide Bailly | LaQuinta Inn & Suites | Maxwells Minnesota State University Moorhead | National Hospitality Services North Dakota State University | Office Sign Company Radio FM Media | TrueNorth Steel

Friends of YEA!

American Crystal Sugar | Dabbert Custom Homes Talecris Plasma Resources Inc. | Wells Fargo Bank NA

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 25

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Whether you have a one- or multisite network, we serve as your business’s single point of contact and provide 24/7/365 support from our highly trained technicians.

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ADVANCE YOUR CAREER

EARN AN MBA DEGREE THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

We make human resources easy Statement of Ownership, Management & Circulation This form signifies The Bridge’s periodical status. Please contact us with any questions at 218.233.1100 or email us at thebridge@ fmwfchamber.com.

26 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Other Things We Make Easy: Recruiting & Retaining Staff Workers’ Compensation Employee Benefits Payroll & Tax Administration Government Compliance Safety & Wellness Cloud-Based HR Technologies

Call Today— 800-776-4671 218-847-9277

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

Volunteer with YPN

Lattes with Leaders

October 3 | 3 to 5 p.m.

October 15 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

CHARISM Painting Party

Steve Swiontek

CHARISM, 612 23rd Street South, Fargo

Join YPN as we help CHARISM finish up their summer project of painting their Youth Center. We will be painting (weather permitting) outside, so please wear proper painting attire!

CHARISM Neighborhood center provides outreach programs for at-risk youth and families through skill-based enrichment programs and community activities.

Four Points by Sheraton 5064 23rd Avenue South, Fargo

Start your day with networking and learning from a prestigious local business leader, all while getting your morning caffeine boost. This quarter's Lattes with Leaders welcomes The Chamber's 2019 Legacy Leader, Steve Swiontek of Gate City Bank! Steve will share this story, life lessons, and take questions.

Networking to Business

Off the Clock

Morning Buzz

October 17 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Drumconrath Brewing Company 630 First Avenue North, Ste 6, Fargo

Luna Fargo 1545 University Drive, Fargo

360 Degree Leadership Dakota Medical Foundation 4141 28th Avenue South, Fargo Cost: Member $5 | Non-member $15

Don't wait for that promotion! Start leading now, right where you are! Join YPN as we learn how to overcome challenges and learn skills to help you become a 360 Degree Leader. Join Amanda Brannan, Discovery Benefits, Inc., as we learn to exercise influence in all directions-up, across and down. Networking will begin at 7:30 a.m., business begins at 8!

October 23 | 5:15 to 7 p.m.

October 24 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Must be 21 to attend Join YPN for our monthly networking happy hour at Drumconrath Brewing Company.

Network with other young professionals while checking out one of the metro's newest food and beverage establishments. Drinks are on your own, apps are on us, and networking is free (don't forget your business cards)!

Come and network with other young professionals before you start your work day and get your morning caffeine boost. Coffee on your own; networking is free!

HIGHLIGHTS from September

PROGRAM SPONSORS

Thank you to everyone that came to last month’s New Member Social and Off the Clock at Brewtus Clubhouse at Osgood Golf Course! We also got a sweet treat with morning networking at Sandy’s Donuts in late August.

Thank you Sandy's, and thank you, Brewtus, for hosting us!

#FMWFYPN

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Delta by Marriott

FREEs, not fees.

CARE

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Member FDIC

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 27

NEW MEMBERS We welcome the following businesses who have invested by joining The Chamber. We encourage all members to conduct business with each other. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber!

Arthritis Foundation of North Dakota a rthritis.org/north-dakota

Fusion Electric, LLC f usionelectric.co

ealth Care Services H The Arthritis Foundation is boldly pursuing a cure for America's #1 cause of disability while championing the fight against arthritis with life-changing resources, science, advocacy and community connections.

ontractors - Electrical C As an electrical contractor, Fusion Electric, LLC is proud of their small-business roots, which helped them develop an eye for detail and a commitment to customer satisfaction. They got their start in 2010 as a two-man operation handling small commercial projects for local companies. Since then, they’ve grown to a team of 38 employees and include well-established companies specializing in multi-family construction. They provide new construction electrical work for small to medium-sized residential and commercial construction projects, including upgrades and remodels, and service for homeowners and businesses.

Allegiance Fundraising Group LLC a llegiancefundraising.com omputer/Mobile App Software & Services C Allegiance Fundraising Group delivers end-to-end fundraising solutions that are easy to use and well supported so non-profits can acquire, nurture and retain more donors.

Buena Vista/Meadow Park MHC m ymhcommunity.com/Communities/NorthDakota/BuenaVista entals R Buena Vista is a family-friendly mobile home community. They offer two car off-street parking pads, a fun half-court basketball court and a great playground. Buena Vista is an affordable cost of living place and is conveniently situated within 1 mile from local shopping and dining opportunities. They offer excellent amenities and a great place to raise a family!

Conquer Ninja Gym c onquerninja.com Fitness Centers Conquer Ninja Gym is a ninja warrior training and obstacle course facility located in Fargo. They are the premier gym in the region dedicated to individuals seeking ninja warrior and obstacle adventure race training.

Davis davishre.com eal Estate R Davis is the only real estate firm that focuses exclusively on healthcare providers. For over 30 years, they have provided a greater range of services and completed more negotiations than any other healthcare real estate firm in the market. The foundation of their long-term client relationships is built upon our success in optimizing real estate objectives and establishing the bar for lease and sale terms. Their comprehensive service array provides an unmatched ability to meet the needs of our clients.

Want to find all our members? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com.

28 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Full Circle Pediatric Solutions f ullcirclepediatric.com ealth Care Services H Full Circle Pediatric Solutions is a private practice located in Fargo, within the West Fargo Public Schools boundaries, servicing Fargo-Moorhead and surrounding areas. The team is comprised of highly trained behavior analysts, registered behavior technicians and speech-language pathologists offering center-based ABA therapy, speech-language therapy, schoolbased behavior consultation, and professional development.

They are dedicated to serving children with varying needs and abilities, along with their families, to reach their full potential.

Imagine Home Lending i maginehomelending.com ortgages M Imagine Home Lending strives to provide you with a small town, quality, attentive service that you can't get with bigger banks.

At Imagine Home Lending, they only do mortgage lending.

They strive to do with the best possible quality.

Midwest Motors & More m ymidwestmotors.com Automobile Dealers Their friendly, knowledgeable staff is ready to serve all of your used car, truck and SUV needs. They also provide an extensive inventory of used recreational vehicles, including but not limited to, RVs, ATVs, golf carts, boats and trailers. Their lot is ready to serve all your needs and their team is always ready to help.

Amanda Nelson State Farm a mandanelsoninsurance.com I nsurance Amanda Nelson is a second-generation State Farm agent, licensed in Minnesota and North Dakota since 2008. Nelson is centered around insuring families experienced in coverage for young adults making insurance easy to understand. State Farm Insurance Agency protecting the lifestyles of the Fargo Moorhead community!

Ole & Lena's Pizzeria o leandlenaspizzeria.com estaurants R Ole and Lenas pizzeria is Fargo’s finest “NorwegianItalian” restaurant! Known for their unique and flavorful pizzas, we also specialize in pastas, salads and our famous “Uffda” lefse quesadillas! Stop in soon and enjoy great food in our family owned and operated business.

Sandy’s Donuts and Coffee Shop s andysdonuts.com akeries B WE DO DONUTS, and we do a lot of them. Sandy’s has over 75 different varieties every single day. They are also constantly coming up with new fun donuts that are changed out seasonally. While you’re there, grab yourself a great cup of Stumbeano’s coffee as well.

GIVE YOUR DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS A

performance review.

If they’re not working as hard as you do, hire us. We’re experienced. Local.

And ready to go!

Let’s talk. Choose your banker at starionbank.com/business/bankers.

Skavlem Designs s kavlemdesigns.com arketing Services M Freelance graphic designer and brand consultant who believes creativity is at the heart of problem solving. Sue works best getting to know you, your business and what you need, then custom-fitting a variety of services to best meet your needs. She’ll show how to best invest in your brand, market and reach, while balancing cost with impact.

Triple Ax t ripleax.com Recreation Triple Ax is Fargo / Moorhead’s first ax throwing destination. This is a great option when looking for things to do in Fargo. Ax throwing is fun for corporate events, bachelor parties, date nights, family nights. Fun for beginners through those signing up for the leagues.

Voxtelesys LLC v oxtelesys.com elecommunications T Their services include SIP Trunking, Cloud PBX, SMS Messaging, Hosted IVR, faxing and TCPA compliance services and more. Voxtelesys offers a world class VoIP Network that is designed for performance, high availability and intense security.

Member FDIC

REGISTER NOW

11.06.19

HOLIDAY INN • FARGO, ND

nVision focuses on envisioning the future of technology while bringing together leaders from the region to collaborate, strategize and discuss new and hot topics in technology.

Register at: www.netcenter.net/nVision19

Follow #nVision18 on Twitter for more updates leading up to nVision!

64839_10_NCI_nVision_Register_3-625x4-75_FMWF_Ad.indd 1

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 8/8/19• 29 4:26 PM

PRINT, PROMOTE & PROPEL

That’s what we do for you! J & M Printing has been helping clients for over 50 years and we are ready to do the same for you. Call up Rich to get ideas, get a quote and propel your business!

CONNECT FOR A QUOTE! JMPRINT.NET

Rich Maras rmaras@jmprint.net 701-730-1623

4666 Amber Valley Parkway Fargo, ND 58104

PRINTING

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SIGNAGE & BANNERS A Top 400 U.S. Printing Company for 2015, 2016 & 2017 in Printing Impressions

OCT 23 FOLLOW US FOR MORE DETAILS

DOOR PRIZES

30 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

8-5 COME SEE WHAT THE BUZZ IS ALL ABOUT AT OUR NEW SHOWROOM! #samefacesfreshspaces

2828 13TH AVE S FARGO

OPEN HOUSE

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES Congrats to the following Chamber member companies for their exciting announcements! Make sure to congratulate their achievements and recognition next time you see them around town. Want to see your own company news here? Send your press releases to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com. We want to share your good news (for free!) just because you are a valued member.

In August, Animal Health Clinic passed the onsite Fear Free evaluation, making them the first Fear Free Certified Practice in the Dakotas, and currently 1 of only 98 worldwide! This coveted certification proves they have successfully incorporated Fear Free in all aspects of the practice.

Marco announced its acquisition of the customer base of Executive Technologies, a copier/printer and IT services company located in Iowa. Marco’s sales and service team will continue to serve and support Executive Technologies’ clients from its current locations in Sioux City, Mason City and Des Moines. The company has six locations throughout Iowa.

True|IT announced that the company has been recognized by Inc. magazine as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. With a three-year growth rate of 397 percent and a 2018 revenue of $12.1 million, True|IT has been ranked number 1057 on the magazine’s annual Inc. 5000 list. Representing the most successful companies within the U.S. economy’s most dynamic segment—independent small businesses—the Inc. 5000 has become the hallmark of entrepreneurial success.

Pictured is the Fear Free Committee, which worked diligently to provide staff training, updating processes and procedures, providing client education, and eliminating stressors to improve the patient and client experience.

Determined by annual revenue, EAPC Architectural Engineers has been named a Top 40 design firm for nonresidential buildings and multifamily buildings work, as reported in Building Design+Construction's 2019 Giants 300 Report. EAPC, established in 1967, is an award-winning multi-disciplinary design consulting firm with offices in North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Arizona, and Colorado. EAPC currently employs over 130 professionals.

Town & Country Credit Union unveiled their expanded partnership with Banzai, a nationwide financial education provider. Town & Country has been supporting financial education in the schools through the Banzai program for 5 years, serving 4,380 students in rural Northwestern North Dakota and the Fargo area in that time period. Now, this impactful program is open to anyone with access to the internet due to Town & Country Credit Union’s support of Banzai Direct.

Inc. magazine revealed that Jeff Shipley Enterprises is No. 1,327 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. This placement puts the Fargo company in the top 26% of this year’s nationally recognized companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses.

EIDE LIKE I’D LIKE TO SUPPORT MY COMMUNITY

Communities thrive when we work together. We’re proud to support The Chamber.

What inspires you, inspires us. eidebailly.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 31

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE 702 Communications

Brian Crommett, Chief Executive Officer Rachel Weber, Customer Relations Manager (not pictured)

Apex Engineering Group

Tyler Madsen, Civil Engineer - Municipal Sam Ruppert, Civil Engineer - Municipal

Appareo

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Josh Hahn, Fargo Branch Business Services Officer

Dakota Business Lending

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CROMMETT

MADSEN

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ANDERSON

CLARK

FOWLER

PEDERSEN

XIONG

HAHN

HOLMSTRON

KAUTZMAN

McQUADE

Christopher Anderson, Electronics Technician Jesse Clark, Engineer I, Software Design Alan Fowler, Business Operations Manager, IoT Alex Pedersen, Engineer I, Electrical Engineering Xou Xiong, IT Support Specialist

Capital Credit Union

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Tonya Holmstron, New Board of Director Kim Kautzman (Bank of North Dakota), New Board of Director Paige McQuade, Credit and Underwriting Specialist

The Diversion Authority

Joel Paulsen, Executive Director, FM Area Diversion Project

EAPC Architects Engineers

Noah Fischer, HR and Organizational Development Manager Steven Stalboerger, Senior Architect and Medical Planner

Eide Bailly LLP

Angelina Akers, Business Outsourcing & Strategy Manager Luke Evenson, Audit Senior Manager Dustin Long, Audit Senior Manager Matthew Neir, National Assurance Senior Manager Ryan Renner, Audit Senior Manager Ryan Sperling, Business Valuation Manager Anne Stoll, Tax Manager Tommy Ward, Microsoft Cloud Services Manager Brian Zerface, Tax Manager

Did you know

that we run news announcements from all our members in every newsletter, at no charge? It’s just one perk of your Chamber membership! Whether for a new hire or exciting news about your company, we want to share our members’ milestones with our readers and the community.

Just send your news to us, and we’ll publish it in the next available edition of The Bridge.

Note: Due to our publishing cycle, all news is run two months out from when it was received.

32 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

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MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE FM Area Foundation

Carrie Feigum, Donor Services Assistant

Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre

Judy Lewis, Education Director

Fredrikson & Byron

FEIGUM

LEWIS

PERLEBERG

Katie A. Perleberg, Shareholder David B. Tibbals, Associate Attorney

TIBBALS

Gunderson’s Jewelry

Samantha Bergman, Store Manager/Sales Professional Alice Bjerk, Sales Professional

Houston Engineering, Inc.

Mike Opat, Senior Project Manager

KW Inspire Realty

BERGMAN

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Cory Bertram, Realtor Christine Reimel, Realtor Rachelle Slotten, Realtor

BERTRAM

Spotlight Media Inc. Jay Borland, Controller

Town & Country Credit Union Michael Sylskar, Branch Manager

Town & Country Insurance Agency, LLC

REIMEL

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BORLAND

Brent Gerber, Agent

SYLSKAR

West Fargo Public Schools

Sarah Anderson, Special Education Coordinator Levi Bachmeier, Business Manager

Widmer Roel

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How to submit Email your company or people news to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com or visit fmwfchamber.com/member-news.

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Nick Evin, Senior Staff Accountant Juan Martinez, Audit Supervisor Matthew Nelson, Tax Supervisor Andrew Schell, Audit Manager

OTHER NEWS

Hector International Airport Executive Director Shawn Dobberstein was named the 2019 Airport Professional of the Year by the Great Lakes Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives. He was honored for 28 years of selfless leadership and professional accomplishments to the airport industry.

Traci Tarnasky, health sciences teacher at West Fargo High School, was named the North Dakota Association of Career & Technical Educators New Teacher of the Year in Health Science Education Award.

The National Math & Science Initiative announced that Shaina Eagleson, a science teacher at Sheyenne High School, has been selected as their Teacher of the Month.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 33

CELEBRATIONS: AUGUST RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

Archer Real Estate Relocation 2600 Ninth Avenue South, Fargo archerfargo.com

Beyond Shelter Grand opening of Homefield II 4245 28th Avenue South, Fargo beyondshelterinc.com

Dale Carnegie New ownership/relocation 1100 NP Avenue North Suite 201, Fargo northdakota.dalecarnegie.com

BeeHive Homes Grand opening 1001 Caddy Avenue, Moorhead beehivehomes.com

Conquer Ninja Gyms Grand opening 3207 Main Avenue, Suite A, Fargo conquergyms.com

First International Insurance New ownership 1730 30th Avenue South, Moorhead firstintlins.com

Want your own ribbon cutting?

We want to help your business celebrate its important milestones! Chamber ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings are available FREE to any member business. If you have opened your doors within the past year, changed ownership, relocated, remodeled, expanded or are celebrating a milestone anniversary, we would love to help commemorate the occasion.

For more information or to schedule, contact Mickayla at 218.359.0517 or mthompson@fmwfchamber.com, or fill out the form at bit.ly/FMWFRibbonRequest. *One ribbon cutting per year per member

34 THE BRIDGE • OCTOBER 2019

Northern Pipe Products 40-year Anniversary 1302 39th Street Northwest, Fargo northernpipe.com

CELEBRATIONS

Patrick Metzger

Rustica Eatery & Tavern

Grand opening Casselton, ND patrick-metzger.com

New ownership 315 Main Avenue, Moorhead dinerustica.com

University of Jamestown

YWCA

Expansion 4143 26th Avenue South Suite 100, Fargo uj.edu

Grand opening of Grace Garden 1480 16th Street East, West Fargo ywcacassclay.org

Announcing the Ambassadors of the Year

Each year, we honor two incredible ambassadors who go above and beyond in their commitment to members.

This year, we named Scott Berg of U.S. Bank the Member Relations Ambassador of the Year, based on his committee involvement, contacts made to members and professionalism. Scott currently has 16 members in his book of business that he meets with regularly. He’s been on the committee 3½ years and provides motivation to help keep the rest of the ambassadors on track while chairing the 2019–20 fiscal year.

We also named Tom Thompson of Freedom Resource Center for Independent Living the Public Relations Ambassador of the Year, who was chosen by his fellow ambassadors to receive this award. This particular award is named after longtime ambassador Wayne Saar and is based on attendance, professionalism and committee involvement. Tom has been on the committee for 12 years and has made it to 90 out of the 107 ribbon cuttings this year.

Thank you Scott and Tom for your dedication and hard work!

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 35

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

Two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time NFL MVP

S E T A E S ABL A N ARE L AVAILamber.com STILnow at fm1w8f.2ch33.1100.

2 r iste i ng Reg by call or

Tuesday, November 5 | Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Sanford Health Athletic Complex

Why Manning? Every year, we ask who you want to see as the next Voices of Vision speaker.

Every year, Peyton Manning is near the top of the list. He’s funny, he’s accomplished, he’s iconic, and he has so much to share with an audience. Join us for this unforgettable event.

Manning knows how to build successful teams and overcome adversity. He shares his real-world tips on how you can adapt to change and come out on top. We’ll hear how he creates a winning team culture and leads with passion.