The Bridge: September 2016

BRIDGE THE

120 6

SEPTEMBER 2016 · VOL 20 · NO. 1

Chamber Under Construction Learn About all of the Changes Inside

16 VOICES OF VISION SPEAKER ANNOUNCED

22 MEET THE NEW LEADERSHIP CLASS 22

CONTENTS September 2016

8 State of Technology

Read the highlights from this amazing tech event

10 Welcome New Volunteers

Say hello to our new board and committee chairs this fiscal year

24 Member Profile

24

Great North Insurance

31 Member Spotlight Bytespeed

Also In This Issue

6 12 14 16 17 18 20 22 26 33 35 37 39

Eggs & Issues Last Month in Photos Women Connect Voices of Vision Business Training Young Entrepreneurs Academy Young Professionals Network Leadership FMWF Member News Meet the Volunteers New Members Celebrations Event Calendar

AD INDEX 26 36 21 32 21 35 21 19 32 38 16 39 38

AT&T Blue Cross Blue Shield ND Boulger Funeral Home Bremer Central MN Credit Union Cole Papers, Inc. Dakota Carrier Network First International Bank Gate City Bank Goosmann Law Firm Indigo Signworks J&M Printing Junior Achievement

7

16

8 32 30 34 21 19 38 4 5 5 4 32 26

Knight Printing Marco Midco NDSU Research & Tech Park Network Center Park Company Realtors Pro Resources Ramada Plaza & Suites Starion Financial Talecris Plasma Resources Village Business Institute Wells Fargo

22

FROM THE

PRESIDENT

WE’RE BEHIND BRESCIANI Dean Bresciani has been North Dakota State University’s president since 2010, and for these past seven years, he has transformed the university into a nationally recognized institution for education, athletics and research.

Bresciani may be under fire, but the facts speak for themselves, and the facts show that the university has never been stronger, thanks in large part to the wisdom and experience from this seasoned leader.

Just one of many indicators of Bresciani’s success lies in the university’s fundraising efforts. Through the end of May, the NDSU Foundation and Alumni Association’s fundraising totaled over $33 million. To put this into perspective, that number was just under $7 million at the same time last year, which was the fourth highest fundraising year ever.

The university also secured more than $176 million in current and deferred gifts from July 1, 2010 through June 16 of this year. In the five years prior (fiscal years 2006 to 2010), the total was $58 million.

Numbers like that don’t increase without solid leadership from the top.

Craig Whitney President & CEO The Chamber

Another fact is that North Dakota State University plays an important role in the ongoing issue of workforce in the metro.

Not only is the institution the second largest employer in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo but they produce highly educated and trained employees, many of which stay to work in the region.

Bresciani has been involved in the recent workforce collaborative and has shown his strong support of efforts to attract, train and retain qualified workers in the region. Quite simply, our work in solving the workforce gap would be much harder without the backing of our higher education leaders.

Oh, and I can’t forget to mention that NDSU has upward of an $884 million annual economic impact on the regional economy. These are no small figures.

Find The Chamber Online

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

While colleges and universities around the country struggle with enrollment, under President Bresciani’s leadership, NDSU continues to grow and prosper.

It’s clear that the president has his heart and head in the right place when it comes to serving the citizens of North Dakota and the students of the university. It is inspiring to watch as he and his team continue to pursue excellence in academics and research, with an eye toward the economic success of our region.

I have to applaud Bresciani’s commitment, leadership and vision, and I stand behind him with confidence.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 3

CHAMBER UNDER CONSTRUCTION

YOUR GUIDE TO THE CHANGES IN THIS ISSUE OF THE BRIDGE

You may notice that this issue of The Bridge looks a little different! That’s because with our new fiscal year, we’re unveiling a host of changes around The Chamber. From a revamped newsletter, new eBridge design, new logos and a new website, a lot is in the works. Just like our community is under construction, so are we, and it’s all to make things more effective, efficient and modern. Stay tuned as we roll everything out in the coming months.

Inside the pages of this Bridge this month, you’ll find that some sections have changed, some have gone away, and some new ones debuted.

Monthly event recaps are now being done with photos so that you can see the best moments from the month.

Member profiles have turned into a spread so we can pack even more information and photos into the companies we cover. Member news is now easier to scan, with more emphasis on the people that have news to share. We’re also introducing a Meet the Volunteers section so you can put faces to the names of some of our dedicated supporters.

To see what else has changed, please take a few minutes and flip through the rest of these pages. We hope you like what you see. We welcome your feedback and suggestions as we continue to improve!

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4 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Judd Graham Bremer Bank Chair Elect Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank Chair Elect Mark Nisbet Xcel Energy Treasurer Jon Riewer Eventide Senior Living Communities Immediate Past Chair Peggy Kennedy Minnesota State Community & Technical College Member at Large Craig Whitney The Chamber Beverley Adams Sanford Health Bernie Dardis Indigo Signworks Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance Kyle Dorow Essentia Health Mike Dragosavich Spotlight Media Inc. Jodi Duncan Flint Group Jenni Huotari Eide Bailly Michelle Kommer Western State Bank Doug Restemayer D-S Beverages, Inc. Joanna Slominski Mortenson Construction Jeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Agribusiness Brian Ingulsrud American Crystal Sugar Ambassador Member Relations Erica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald House Ambassador Public Relations Patty Mastel Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation Business Training Angie Ryan Network Center Inc. Leadership FMWF Megan Stoner Marco Military Affairs Brian Shawn American Red Cross - Red River Valley Chapter Public Affairs Marshal Albright Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc. Young Professionals Network Amanda Carlson State Farm Insurance Women Connect Jodi Heilman Coach My Brand

CHAMBER STAFF Craig Whitney President/CEO Jim Parsons Vice President of Finance/Operations

Julie Doggett Information Systems Administrator Darren Dunlop Business Development Manager Tyler Fischbach Multimedia Coordinator

Samantha Gust Professional Development Coordinator Amanda Hofland Marketing and Communications Manager Katie McPherson Graphics and Publications Coordinator

Tracy Meckler Membership & Advertising Sales Manager Elly Peterson Government Affairs & Advocacy Coordinator

Tracy Powell Director of Events & Programs Bobbi Jo Rehder Events Coordinator Katie Ralston Young Entrepreneurs Academy Program Coordinator

Mickayla Thompson Member Relations Coordinator Julie Yourczek Administrative Support Coordinator

THE BRIDGE (USPS 124-430) is published monthly by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber. For each issue received, $3.50 of membership dues are applied toward subscription of the newsletter. Periodicals Postage Paid at Fargo, ND 58102 and at additional mailing offices. Publication No. 124430.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bridge, PO Box 2443, Fargo, ND 58108-2443; 218.233.1100.

From our elegant, impressive Board Rooms, to the grand Crystal Ballroom, you are sure to find the ideal setting for your event. Our meeting spaces are state-of-the-art and designed to meet all of your needs. You can choose from a wide variety of room styles and setup can be customized to meet your specific requirements. Let our experienced Sales and Catering Team plan your next event. 701-281-7164 1635 42ND ST S FARGO | 701-277-9000 | RAMADAFARGO.COM

EGGS & ISSUES A Look at Area K-12 Schools

Flowers

Kovash

Back to Basics on Tax Incentives

As you know, the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metropolitan area is a community on the grow. With an extremely low unemployment rate, high quality of life amenities and an average citizen age in the early 30s, it only makes sense that our school system is feeling the effects of all of the major successes of a thriving metro.

The number of students attending local schools is growing exponentially each year, causing many administrators to examine infrastructure and staffing needs. Dr. Jeff Schatz, superintendent, Fargo Public Schools, Dr. Lynne Kovash, superintendent of Moorhead Public Schools, and Dr. David Flowers, superintendent of West Fargo Public Schools, will be joining us to provide insight into what their school systems are facing, goals for the year ahead and long-term needs.

Schatz

Tuesday, September 6

Cook

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 Grindberg Fargo City Commissioner and former state Senator Tony Grindberg. 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.

Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

7:30 to 9 a.m.

Holiday Inn Fargo - NEW LOCATION THIS MONTH

Registration (includes breakfast) 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.

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.

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

#FMWFEggs Presenting Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

Beverage Wholesalers, Inc. | Bremer Bank | Cornerstone Bank | Home Builders Association of Fargo Moorhead KLJ | Moore Engineering, Inc. | ROERS | Wanzek Construction | Wells Fargo Bank 6 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

What We Learned About the New Overtime Regulations Last month at Eggs & Issues, we learned the details of the U.S. DOL’s new overtime regulations and its impact on both employers and employees. John Kirchner, executive director of the Midwest region for the U.S Chamber of Commerce, joined us to share what Chamber members need to know to be prepared for the change.

Currently, employees are eligible for overtime compensation unless three criteria are met: They must be paid a salary more than the threshold of $455/week ($23,660/year); and they must qualify under an exemption category and meet a primary duties test. The new regulations are effective December 1, 2016, and increases the salary by 100% to $47,476/year. Up to 10% of that salary can come from non-discretionary bonuses and incentive payments.

The salary level will be adjusted every three years. Teachers and doctors are not included. The new regulations also include compensation for working remotely or from home, so employers should think about employees tracking time even answering emails from home.

Kirchner says this will result in a loss of workplace productivity. For instance, new employees likely under this threshold often try and prove themselves by working extra hours, but these rules will now inhibit their ability to set themselves apart. There’s also a loss in flexibility for workplaces that allow lighter workloads one week to compensate for another heavier week.

The DOL estimates that around 5 million people will be affected by the rule, but thinks 1.2 million will see a raise from it.

How could we stop or modify these regulations before they go into effect? Kirchner did reference a couple of legislative responses. The Protecting Workplace Advancement and Opportunity Act and the The Overtime Reform and Enhancement Act. Kirchner suggests that employers be able to demonstrate how the new regulations will affect their workplace productivity by showing, for example, how much less charitable work will get done because they have to comply with the new rules.

To make sure your workplace complies with these new regulations, Kirchner suggests the following steps: • Identify employees who are currently exempt and being paid between $23,660 to $47,476. Reclassify them or increase their salary.

• Develop a new compensation plan for the reclassified employees. Consider the same income in hourly format, a change in benefits and earned OT. • Communicate the changes to employees. Explain that reclassifying is NOT a demotion.

• Train the reclassified employees and their managers. Define what will now be compensable time, how to track time, and define use of electronic technology, remote access, etc.

This is only the tip of the iceberg, though, and there’s a lot of questions left as December 1 comes closer, and how we respond to the changes once they’re in effect. To view Kirchner’s slides from the event, visit The Chamber blog.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 7

The State

Last month, about 300 people joined us and

Senator John Hoeven at the Hilton Garden Inn for the 2016 State of Technology event, in which we highlighted local innovators that are solving global challenges through incredible tech innovation.

Camille Grade and Jake Joraanstad from Myriad Mobile served as emcees for the morning and provided a great overview of just how connected we all are through smart devices, the Internet and exponential technologies.

Hoeven talked about the waves of innovation in the state, counting ag as the first, energy as the second, technology as the third, noting that North Dakota is “absolutely hands-down, unequivocally, without question, one of the leaders in agriculture.”

Seth Arndorfer, CEO of Dakota Carrier Network, took the stage to offer an overview DCN’s fiber infrastructure and share an exclusive announcement to event attendees. Every 12 to 15 months, North Dakota’s Internet consumption doubles, he shared. That’s a lot of growth to support, and DCN is working on an initiative to establish a secure WiFi network across all of North Dakota with access points throughout the entire state. The goal? To give you the same speed and experience on your mobile device like you would get wired in to the network.

Next up was a keynote from Microsoft’s new company-wide president Brad Smith, who shared a fascinating look at the growth of technology historically and how it brought it to where we are today. He offered a glimpse into how Microsoft is leading the way in making the Internet more accessible around the world. This includes a major data center in Pennsylvania that is larger than NDSU’s campus, and a giant fiber optic cable that will connect all of us across the world.

Brad Smith, Microsoft

of Technology in North Dakota

Smith also brought to light a concerning statistic – that nationwide there are 600,000 computing jobs but only 40,000 computer science graduates, and locally 900 jobs but only 116 grads. To fix this, Smith says we shouldn’t just focus on higher education, but also on high schools and offering more AP computer science courses.

Two other presentations from local companies offered attendees a closer look at what initiatives are in the works right here in the metro. Michael Chambers, CEO of Aldevron– a company that works to prevent, treat and cure diseases–shared plans of an expansion and a focus on workforce. Examples of their advancements include a DNA-based malaria vaccine that is in phase 1 of clinical trials; CAR-T cells that fight cancer; and cell gene therapy that can cure things such as inherited blindness.

Neil Brackin of Weather Modification, a company currently housed locally inside the Fargo Jet Center, is making advancements in cloud seeding. This technology can literally make it rain. Water is a critical resource around the world, and this technology is game-changing with proven success. In fact, they’ve seen an average 16% additional precipitation in three particular projects.

Neil Brackin, Weather Modification

The Information Technology Council of North Dakota also presented their annual North Dakota IT Awards. The recipients were:

Premier IT Business: Marco North Dakota IT Champion: Greater Fargo- Moorhead Economic Development Corp.

Technology Innovator: State Historical Society of North Dakota

In the end, Joraanstad offered a challenge to the room to be the leader in autonomous technology.

Presenting Sponsor

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 9

COMMITTEES

Announcing the New Committees and Chairs!

We’re proud to announce and welcome our new 2016-17 committee members and chairs! We look forward to the amazing work we know all you will do in the coming year.

2016-17 Committee Chairs Agribusiness

Ambassadors Membership Relations

Brian Ingulsrud American Crystal Sugar Company

Erica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald House

Ambassadors Public Relations

Business Training

Patty Mastel Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo

Angie Ryan Network Center Inc.

Military Affairs

Megan Stoner Marco

Brian Shawn American Red Cross - Red River Valley Chapter

Public Affairs

Women Connect

Marshal Albright Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc.

Jodi Heilman Coach My Brand

Young Professionals Network Amanda Carlson State Farm Insurance

welcome FROM ALL OF THE CHAMBER STAFF.

10 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

BOARD MEMBERS

Chamber Announces New Board Members Four new faces have joined The Chamber’s Board of Directors for 2016-17. Newly elected board members include Tom Dawson, Dawson Insurance; Mike Dragosavich, Spotlight Media Inc.; Jenni Huotari, Eide Bailly; and Joanna Slominski, Mortenson Construction. Their terms begin September 1, 2016.

2016-17 New Board Members Tom Dawson

Jenni Huotari

Dawson Insurance

Eide Bailly

Mike Dragosavich

Joanna Slominski

Spotlight Media Inc.

Mortenson Construction

We’ve also named new board appointments.

• Judd Graham of Bremer Bank has been named chair.

• Steve Swiontek of Gate City Bank has been named chair elect.

• Mark Nisbet of Xcel Energy has been named treasurer.

• Peggy Kennedy of Minnesota State Community and Technical College

has been named member at large.

• Jon Riewer of Eventide Senior Living Communities is the immediate

past chair after serving as the chair in 2015-16.

Returning board members include:

Beverley Adams Sanford Health

Bernie Dardis Indigo Signworks

Kyle Dorow Essentia Health

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Michelle Kommer Western State Bank

Doug Restemayer D-S Beverages, Inc.

Jeffry Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

The Chamber welcomes our new members and looks forward to another great fiscal year!

Sixteen individuals comprise the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and these individuals work for member firms in good standing with The Chamber. Directors are elected to serve a three-year term and can serve two consecutive, full terms in office.

To ensure equal representation for each community the Chamber serves, residency requirements have been included in the by-laws. Terms begin on September 1 to coincide with the start of The Chamber’s fiscal year.

The Executive Committee consists of the following positions: Chair, Immediate Past Chair, Chair Elect, Treasurer, Secretary and Member-at-Large.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 11

LAST MONTH IN PHOTOS

7 1

1 - 3 Jessica Thomasson of Lutheran Social Services spoke to a Women Connect crowd about courage and finding your voice in a noisy world.

Thanks to attendees, we donated 284 school supplies to United Way! 4 - 5 Kimberly Wold Janke of Flint Group talked branding basics at Business Training to a crowd of over 200 at the Courtyard by Marriott. “A brand is not your logo, mission statement or marketing campaign. Branding is a gut feeling. It’s intangible.”

2

6 - 7 Our first YEA! regional winner Mukai Selekwa had the honor of speaking at 1 Million Cups last month and sharing his business, Webblen. Selekwa shared that he’s looking for developers to help in the final push to launch the service.

3

8 - 9 It’s clear that North Dakota is leading technology innovation. We teamed up with Senator Hoeven to highlight what local companies are doing to revolutionize the world. Find the full State of Technology recap on page 8.

10 - 12 Thanks to Spotlight Media for sponsoring another great Business After Hours last month at the FARGODOME. Attendees were treated to catering from Herd & Horns, great drinks and valuable networking with peers and exhibitors.

4 5 12 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

6

13 The new DOL overtime regulations will impact many area businesses, and Eggs & Issues with John Kirchner highlighted how employers can prepare for the changes. Two legislative representatives also spoke on how you can voice your opinion.

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10

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12 13 FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 13

WOMEN CONNECT Transforming Workplace Relationships with REAL Communication

According to a June 2015 article in the Huffington Post, women are less likely than men to want a woman boss. One Bock study suggests that with very few women at the executive level, they are compared to one another, creating competition, bullying and overcompensation. With all this jockeying going on, how many of those women are able to be REAL in their communication?

Effective communication is a crucial element of leadership success, both at work and at home. At this session, Jodee Bock of Bock’s Office Transformational Consulting will teach the foundation upon which to build a strong culture where everyone has the opportunity to succeed at the highest level.

REAL is an acronym for the areas on which this course concentrates: Radical, Energized, Authentic and LearningBased.

Here, you’ll participate in dialogue about the meaning and application of leadership, develop a deeper understanding of communication basics, become aware of your personal impact on others and an accountability for your choices, and create an action plan of your own.

Tuesday, September 27

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 Gartin 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 self-fulfilling 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

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.

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 American Crystal Sugar Company | Bell Bank | Bremer Bank, N.A. | Choice Financial Dabbert Custom Homes | Discovery Benefits, Inc. | Eventide Senior Living Communities | First International Bank & Trust Gate City Bank | Heritage Homes, LLC/Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Premier Properties | KLJ Minnesota State University Moorhead | Network Center, Inc. | Otter Tail Corporation Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center | Vogel Law Firm | Western State Bank 14 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

SAVETHEDATE The Chamber’s Sixth

ANNUAL MEETING

Thursday, September 22 | Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Ramada Plaza & Suites

Presenting Sponsor

Chairman Sponsor

Join us to celebrate recent accomplishments, look ahead to our new fiscal year and honor the 2016 Legacy Leader.

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Legacy Sponsors

The 2016 Legacy Leader Award goes to Dr. Roger Gilbertson, who has a storied career in medicine in the region. Gilbertson graduated from Concordia College and the University of Minnesota Medical School, serving his residency in radiology at the University of Minnesota and Minneapolis VA Hospital.

In 1971, he joined Radiologist Ltd., which later merged with Fargo Clinic, and Gilbertson served on the Board of Directors from 1988 to 1992. He also became a clinical faculty member of the UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

In 1993, St. Luke’s Hospitals and the Fargo Clinic merged to form the MeritCare Health System. Gilbertson served as a top executive and crucial leader during the transition, later becoming president and chief executive officer. Gilbertson then steered the merger of MeritCare and Sanford Health before retiring.

Sanford and the UND Foundation honored Gilbertson by establishing a $1.5 million Dr. Roger Gilbertson Endowed Chair of Neurology at the UND medical school.

In 1997, Gilbertson was inducted into the Concordia College Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2005, Concordia also honored him with the Alumni Achievement Award.

Gilbertson also served the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community through his involvement in numerous organizations, such as the EDC, DCP and more.

#FMWFAM16

Corporate Table Sponsors

at time of printing

Alerus Bethany Retirement Living Cass County Electric Cooperative Choice Financial Consolidated Communications Dabbert Custom Homes First International Bank & Trust FM Convention & Visitors Bureau Heartland Trust Company KFGO-Midwest Communications Microsoft Moore Engineering Network Center Inc. Ramada Plaza & Suites ROERS Talecris Plasma Resources

U.S. Bank Wanzek Construction Warner and Company

Event Production Sponsor

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 15

Never Quit

Robert O’Neill Former Team Leader,

#VOV16

Naval Special Warfare Development Group

The Story of a Life Built on Successful Missions

An inspiring message from the SEAL Team 6 leader who was part of the team who shot Osama bin Laden.

November 16, 2016 | Noon to 1:30 | Ramada Plaza & Suites Learn more and register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Social

SUPERSTAR! #FMWFBAH

SAVE THE DATE! Business After Hours Thursday, October 20 | 4:30 to 6:30p.m.

Hilton Garden Inn Fargo

EVENT SPONSOR

www.indigosignworks.com Congrats to Jody Hudson from CCRI (@CCRIJody), who won our second Social Superstar contest for our favorite post from last month’s Business After Hours! See if you can be October’s Social Superstar by using #FMWFBAH.

16 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

Lighted Signage | Pole & Monument Signs | Awnings Vinyl Graphics | Neon | LEDs | Interior Signs | ADA Interior & Exterior Digital Displays | | Digital Printing Express Graphics 1622 Main Ave | Fargo, ND | 701.297.9696 | fargo@indigosignworks.com Additional locations in Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, Alexandria & St. Cloud

BUSINESS TRAINING A Little Coffee and a Lot of Hustle

Many of us believe that once we have “paid our dues” we should have the luxury of sitting back and enjoying the ride. However, whether it be in family, work or business, those that truly want to grow as leaders must hustle at every stage. Through acknowledging the need to hustle, leaders take responsibility for both their successes and failures, and through that, grow as leaders.

Ciara Stockeland, founder and COO of MODE, will energize the session audience to keep moving forward and to hustle through whatever stage they are in. Stockeland has owned and operated Stockeland businesses since the age of 12. Her business mindset and tenacity led her to opening her first store, Mama Mia, and shortly after, developed and opened MODE, a designer outlet. In 2008, she chose to merge her two concepts into MODE and has successfully developed the concept into a thriving franchise.

Wednesday, September 14

Registration (includes lunch)

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

Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

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

#FMWFTraining

FLSA Overtime Rule Change - What You Need to Know and 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 and to help you determine what to do about it. Martha Velasco Suarez is a labor & employment attorney, and Michelle Kommer 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.

Velasco Suarez

Kommer

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 is likely yes and will require employers to determine how to respond.

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, including tools available to assist you; and guidance to manage the cultural impact of this change in your workplace.

Wednesday, October 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ramada Plaza & Suites

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 Edgewood Vista | Goldmark Property Management | Network Center, Inc. | Walmart | Wanzek Construction FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 17

YEA!: YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY The Young Entrepreneurs Academy has been gaining attention, not only in the FMWF area, but nationwide!

Although we think our local program is pretty amazing, the fact is that YEA! is a national program that is helping middle and high school students find entrepreneurial success all around the country. Adding to YEA!’s national growth are newly established partnerships with Boy Scouts of America and DECA. We are excited to see interest in YEA! grow with the endorsements it has received from these organizations.

On a local level, we are getting ready to start our second year of the program. We are proud of the success the 2016 YEA! class continues to experience in their business endeavors, with some students even interested in participating in the program again!

If you know a student who is ready to embark on the exciting journey of becoming an entrepreneur, please encourage them to visit fmwfchamber.com/YEA . You can also nominate students by contacting Katie Ralston at 218.359.0511 or kralston@fmwfchamber.com. The deadline to apply is September 30, so act fast!

UPDATE: MUKAI SELEKWA, 2016 YEA! REGIONAL WINNER Mukai Selekwa has been busy with the business he launched in YEA! In July, Mukai was featured in a great article in The Forum and spoke at 1 Million Cups. In August, he spoke at State of Technology and had the opportunity to meet Brad Smith, the president of Microsoft, Senator John Hoeven, and a handful of leaders from our local tech industry. This young man has seen a lot of success since graduating from Davies High School, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for him! We are happy to see that he is staying here to continue his education at NDSU, and we are looking forward to seeing his business grow locally.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

@FMWFYEA #FMWFYEA YEA Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber

18 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

Save the Date 2016 11.02.2016 At the Avalon Events Center

www.netcenter.net

BUSINESS Just Went Mobile

Introducing the ultimate mobile banking app to keep your business moving forward.

5 Convenient F-M Locations Internet-enabled Apple or Android smartphone is required. Message and data rates from your carrier may apply.

0179_05-16

www.firstintlbank.com/BusinessMobile FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 19

YPN: YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK Nominate the Next ‘One to Watch’ The Young Professionals Network strives to promote professional development and social engagement opportunities for young professionals throughout the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. We understand the dedication that young professionals have for our community, and through the One to Watch, we are able to recognize them for the positive impact that they have on our community. Nominate today at http://bit.ly/YPNotwNom. For over 10 years, the Young Professionals Network of Fargo Moorhead West Fargo has provided top-notch programming to YP’s looking to connect with others who are career and community focused. Our monthly Off the Clock Socials provide a venue to do just that. With events held across our community, attendees get to check out brand new and landmark locations alike while expanding their network and brushing up on communication skills. There’s a reason people keep coming back month to month, and we invite you to see what the buzz is all about. Join us at out next event on September 22. We hope to see you there!

Off the Clock

Thursday, September 22

5:15 to 7:30 p.m.

Porter Creek Hardwood Grill, 1555 44th Street South, Fargo Free, no registration required.

Join us for our September Off the Clock at Porter Creek Hardwood Grill, where they feature a fresh contemporary American menu with California-Mediterranean influences and a wide range of wine and spirits to suit any tastes. As usual, apps and networking are provided, but drinks are on your own.

YPN: Time to Socialize

PROGRAM SPONSORS

20 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

ENTREPRENEURS WANTED Business lending centered on you.

Put your ideas to work.

We help entrepreneurs and start-ups in high-tech industries gain a foothold and move onto solid financial and operational ground. For established companies, we help advance their research and development initiatives. Programs include: • Technology innovation, commercialization, licensing and joint venture opportunities • Entrepreneur Development - comprehensive business assistance, market research, educational events, mentoring and networking • Financing, venture capital and strategic partnerships • Access to talent FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT NDSU RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PARK www.ndsuresearchpark.com | 701.499.3603 | john@ndsuresearchpark.com

RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PARK

You have a lot of work ahead of you.

We can help make things easier with customized lending packages to meet your business’ needs.

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

Centered on you.

Originator # 1379824 Equal Opportunity Lender | Federally Insured by NCUA

NEED SPACE? Co-Locate With North Dakota’s Leading Data Center Provider DCN’s co-location services are the best in North Dakota. Period. 24/7 monitoring ensures your data and equipment are safe, secure, and protected. Our new data center addition will open soon, and suites are available.

• 99.999% Network Uptime

• State-of-the-Art Security

• Uninterruptible Power Supply

• Redundant HVAC Units

• 24/7 Customer Access

• And Much More!

Reserve your safe, secure, and protected space by calling DCN today!

Bismarck and Fargo 800-814-3333 www.DakotaCarrier.com

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

Carrier Ethernet | Co-Location/Data Center | Cloud Computing | Dedicated Internet Access | Data Storage & Recovery

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 21

LEADERSHIP FMWF WELCOME CLASS OF 2016-17 Last month, the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class of 2017 started off their 10-month program by diving right in. After hearing from The Chamber President and CEO, they got a crash course in the importance of making a good first impression and how to remember a new acquaintance’s name thanks to Heather Ostrowski, Preference Personnel.

Next up was Jodee Bock, Bock’s Office, who helped our class define what leadership means to us and took us down the path to better understand our communication styles and how to flex them when working with others.

Along with some ice breakers, networking activities and preparing for future sessions, the day was full of fun and excitement. While the class has only just begun, we are certain this group of 40 business professionals will make a lasting impact on our community, and we couldn’t be more excited to see what lies ahead.

A special thanks to Roger Hoyt, Scout Executive/CEO for closing out the session and for providing a great space for our orientation.

Let’s meet the new class!

#FMWFLeadership

PROGRAM SPONSORS

22 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

Adam Ruud Houston Engineering

Allyson Peterson, NDSU Development Foundation & Alumni Assoc.

Amanda Even Dress for Success Red River Valley

Brandon Haney Midco

Caitlin Stoecker The Village Family Service Center

Chad Brousseau Cass County Electric Cooperative

Cortnee Jensen Mind Shift

Dave Bietz Fargo Park District

Jenna Frost American Crystal Sugar Company

Amanda Maslowski Volt Workforce Solutions

Andy Erickson Kinetic Leasing, Inc.

Chantel Carlson Hilton Garden Inn

Chelsey Agather Discovery Benefits

Donna Block Goldmark Property Management, Inc.

Erik Stenehjem First International Bank & Trust

Jamie Grant Microsoft

Jenna Studt Flint Group

Jennifer Swenson TMI Hospitality

Jordan Cook Choice Financial

Kayla Gefroh Wanzek

Kelly Napoli Obermiller Nelson Engineering, Inc.

Kelsey Erbes Eide Bailly LLP

Kevin Mehrer Northern Lights Council, Boys Scouts of America

Kurt Lysne Moore Engineering, Inc.

Maria Steen Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership

Mark Honzay JLG Architects

Matt Gruchalla Bell Bank

Melissa Rystad Rasmussen College

Mitch Johnson Minnesota State University Moorhead

Nikki Berglund Bernie’s Wines & Liquors/Luna Fargo

Paul Jarvis United Capital

Rob Riness Mortenson Construction

Sam Wheeldon John Deere Electronic Solutions

Sarah Arnston Dakota Medical Foundation

Shane Cullen Park Company Realtors

Teran Germscheid Wimmer’s Diamonds

Thomas Loegering Wanzek Construction

Tim Stokka Gate City Bank

Toby Krone Moorhead Police Department

Vanessa Anderson Vogel Law Firm FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 23

MEMBER PROFILE: GREAT NORTH INSURANCE

A GREAT TEAM

TO MANAGE YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS Great North Insurance, Small Business of the Year

24 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

M

ost new insurance agencies would not advise starting with zero clients or prospects and no infrastructure, but that’s exactly what Great North Insurance has done, and quite successfully at that.

The agency’s founder, Nick Killoran, wanted a challenge, and with his prior successes in the banking industry, embraced building a new business in a hard market.

Killoran teamed up with Zach Bosh, whom he worked with at Wells Fargo, and they quickly got to work. “I always knew that we were going to open a business; I just didn’t know what type of business it would be,” he said. “When we got to thinking about something that would play on our strengths, that’s when insurance popped up as a way to provide a higher level of service to our clients.”

After just five years, Great North was able to eliminate all start-up costs, and they proudly run a 100% locally owned independent agency.

Like any great leader, Killoran credits his success to the work of the team and high standards in the workplace.

“My strong suit is connecting the right people together as a team,” he said.

“As far as the heavy lifting and work with our clients, that I attribute to the team. They truly put their best foot forward every single day, which makes it easy to grow as a business when everyone is acting like an owner.”

It’s this great teamwork that has helped Great North Insurance overcome a number of adversities.

Killoran believes in hiring for attitude and training for skill, and with his team bringing together diverse backgrounds, they’ve seen incredible growth.

Great North Insurance also makes sure to treat every customer the right way. High standards ensure that they provide the best care and attention for all, from the smallest client to the largest client. This customercentric model has shown in the

agency’s satisfaction reviews, where they consistently see high marks.

Outside of their client care, Killoran emphasizes a family-first approach in the workplace and encourages vacations, time with children and volunteerism. By having a close-knit team that can step up and share the workload, it means that no client will ever have to wait to receive assistance.

It also means that the Great North team has flexibility. “Our goal is to provide top-notch service, which creates a good business,” Killoran said. “But we also need to be a community partner. If we can provide our people the freedom to attend personal events and not feel guilty, it’s so very important.”

It’s evident that Great North Insurance has immense pride for the region in which they work. “I can’t think of a better place to open a business,” Killoran said.

“The support has been unbelievable, and people are so willing to help support local business. On every level, it’s fantastic.”

If there’s one thing Killoran wants you to know, it’s the difference between an independent insurance agency and a captive agent. Captive agents can provide an insurance quote from one carrier, whereas independent agencies are typically locally owned businesses that provide multiple options for the client to choose from. The key competitive advantage independent agencies have over captive agents are products from multiple insurance carriers. Nationally recognizable brands like Nationwide, Travelers, Safeco, MetLife and Progressive.

“When you call Great North Insurance, you’re going to get multiple quotes from multiple carriers to ensure you get the best policy and the best value,” he said.

“The real difference though is you get local representation through all of it. To me, it’s a win-win.”

WHAT TYPES OF INSURANCE DOES GREAT NORTH OFFER? Commercial, crop, life, health, disability, home & renters, auto, umbrella, ATV, boat and more.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 25

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES Arvig Enterprises, Inc. announced the acquisition of Image Office Services, a call-answering service based out of Waite Park, Minnesota. As an Arvig company, Image Office Services will transition to become part of Time Communications, the existing call-answering center owned by Arvig.

Bell State Bank & Trust shortened its name in August to Bell Bank, simplifying the brand while retaining the familiar “trees” logo. While Bell has gone through several name changes during its 50-year history, the company’s local ownership, service and reputation have stayed constant.

Bell Bank has been rated a five-star bank by BauerFinancial, Inc., an independent bank research firm.

Taking financial data from federal regulators, a fivestar rating means that a bank is financially sound and is operating well above its capital requirements. Bauer’s fivestar rating is the highest rating the firm awards and means that Bell Bank is considered a trusted institution in terms of its financial strength.

Bethany on University has been awarded a Platinum Milestone Certificate of Achievement through the Great Plains Quality Innovation Network and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Bethany on University is the first nursing facility in North Dakota to achieve the platinum level.

The City of Fargo was awarded an Outstanding Achievement Award for City Livability by the U.S. Conference of Mayors during its annual conference recently held in Indianapolis. The City of Fargo received the award for the unique and meaningful work completed by its Native American Commission. While there are many tribal-affiliated organizations that work to address Native American needs, the Fargo Native American Commission was one of the first to be integrated into local 2991602_18699 government.

3.625 x 2.375 4C

connected AT&T proudly supports The Chamber’s Annual Meeting.

© 2016 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved.

26 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

Dakota Certified Development Corporation (CDC) held their Annual Meeting on June 1, 2016, when board elections were held. Board members elected to a threeyear term running from 2016 to 2019 were Michael Connor of Starkweather, North Dakota, Lori Gabriel of Mandan, and Dan Jacobson of Fargo. Officers for the for the 2016-2017 year were also elected: Gabriel as chair, Andy Maragos of Minot as vice-chair, and Jacobson as secretary/treasurer.

EAPC Architects Engineers has received four awards from Zweig Group for 2016 including a Hot Firm (Top 100) award, a Best Place to Work For award, a Marketing Excellence award, and a Trifecta award.

Businesses in northern Minnesota, eastern North Dakota and northwestern Wisconsin will have a new option for health insurance coverage under a plan built on collaboration between Essentia Health and Medica.

It’s called Essentia ChoiceCare with Medica, and it gives employers the opportunity to have their health care provided by an Accountable Care Organization. The plan will be available November 1, 2016, for large group purchasers (51 or more employees) in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin and January 1, 2017, for small group purchasers in Minnesota and North Dakota (2-50 employees).

Record Keepers has achieved AAA Certification status with the National Association for Information Destruction for the ninth consecutive year. To achieve this status, a company must undergo an audit of the security measures of its facility, employee screening and training, insurance coverage, transport vehicles and internal processes and procedures. Record Keepers’ certification is for paper records destruction, computer hard drive destruction, nonpaper media destruction and custodial records storage.

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

Helping build businesses across Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Come see a Wells Fargo business banker about financing the growth of your business today.

All credit decisions subject to credit approval. © 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (2991602_18699)

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

NEW HIRES

Emily Karkoska

Writer/Researcher Absolute Marketing Group

Lauren Kauffman IP Analyst Appareo

Marlee Barry

Manufacturing Assembler Appareo

Dannelle Verghis

Neal Larson, RN

David White

Executive Vice President Border States Electric

Customer Service Rep./ Personal Banker Choice Financial

Sabrina Mayaan

Brit Skolness

Derek Vetsch

Senior Executive of Admins Bethany Retirement Living

Marketing & Research Assis.

Collins and Krank - Raymond James Financial Services

Cinder Buzick

Commercial Lines Account Manager Dawson Insurance

Amy Ulbricht

Nurse Practitioner Essentia Health Walk-In Care

Technology Advantage Account Manager Corporate Technologies

Brett Albrecht

Accountant/Consultant DFC Consultants, Ltd.

Dr. Shruti Kanwar Hospitalist Essentia Health

Purchasing/Warehouse Manager Corporate Technologies

Lynn Green

Accountant DFC Consultants

Dr. Kimberly Kolkhorst Gastroenterologist/ advanced endoscopist Essentia 32nd Ave Clinic

Mike Willers

Manager, Customer Service & Support Appareo

Elle Nelson

Larry Baker

Buyer Specialist Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Premier Properties

Larissa Driscoll

Agent Chris Heise Agency, Inc.

Client Service Assistant Collins and Krank - Raymond James Financial Services

Eric Hase

Matt Snyder

System Engineer Corporate Technologies

System Engineer Corporate Technologies

Sarah Stoops

Katie Prothero

Nurse Practitioner Essentia Health Pediatrics

Nurse Practitioner Essentia Health Walk-In Care

Dr. Stephanie Antony

Char Gust

Pediatrician Essentia Health S University

VP of Product FBS - Creators of Flexmls FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 27

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE NEW HIRES

Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk

Paul Nelson

Superintendent Heritage Homes

Dave Bruns

Eric Greiff

Ryan Heyer

Strategic Program Manager HDR

Daryl L. Braham

Ben Svobodny

Bryan Wolters

Ian Parmenter

Jennifer Rothschiller

Ryan Lee

Tracy Sanger

Zach Ljungren

Tony Grindberg

Kristi Spindler

Trevor Lakoduk

Andrew Rockhold

Daniel Helm

Alex Bray

Angie Twite

Brady Meyers

David Rygh

Financial Advisor Merrill Lynch

Solution Architect Network Center, Inc.

Electrical BIM/CAD Technician Obermiller Nelson Engineering

Infrastructure Architect Network Center, Inc.

Project Manager Network Center, Inc.

Recently joined as a realtor Park Co. Realtors

Partner Heyer Engineering

Purchasing and Inventory Control Specialist Network Center, Inc.

Infrastructure Architect Network Center, Inc.

Environmental Technician Terracon

Partner Heyer Engineering

Application Developer Network Center, Inc.

VP for Workforce Affairs NDSCS

Engineering Technician Terracon

Partner Heyer Engineering

Project Manager Network Center, Inc.

Director of Human Resources Obermiller Nelson Engineering

Corporate Accountant TMI Hospitality

PROMOTIONS

Orlane Benson

Project Coordinator TMI Hospitality 28 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

Sarah Miller

Learning Solutions Partner TMI Hospitality

Laura Ennis

Mortgage Loan Processor II – Lead Opener Cornerstone Bank

Tax Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Tax Senior Manager Eide Bailly LLP

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

Dustin Long

Erica Halverson

Jill Andera

John Peterson

Katie Hutton

Logan Fahnhorst

Luke Evenson

Matthew Neir

Misty Rappuhn

Nicholas Chavez

Shana Beadle

Shane Husar

Sally Jacobson

Amanda Craft

Ashley Kittleson

Audit Manager Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Tax Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Manager Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Manager Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Senior Manager Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Manager Eide Bailly LLP

Executive Director Red River Zoo

Audit Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Insurance Agent Starion Insurance

CERTIFICATIONS

Sara Hanstad

Business Relationship Manager Wells Fargo

Mara Brust

Conmy Feste Law Firm Named to 2016 Great Plains Super Lawyers Rising Stars list

Fredrick Bairn

Eide Bailly LLP Certified Salesforce Admin.

Stephannie Stiel

Conmy Feste Law Firm Selected to the 2016 Great Plains Super Lawyers list

Marketing Manager Eide Bailly LLP

Audit Senior Associate Eide Bailly LLP

Insurance Agent Starion Insurance

OTHER NEWS

Chandler Egbert

Bernie Erickson

Eide Bailly LLP Certified Salesforce Admin.

Park Co. Realtors Certified as a Resort & Second Home Property Specialist by National Assoc. of Realtors

Craig Ehrmantraut

Natalie Schultz

Associate VP of Business Banking, Cornerstone Bank Graduated from Dakota School of Banking

Dawson Insurance Accepted into State Auto Insurance Companies’ PaceSetter program

Kim Brust

Conmy Feste Law Firm Selected to the 2016 Great Plains Super Lawyers list

Tracy Lyson

Firm Partner, O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Included as a 2016 Rising Stars on the Great Plains Super Lawyers list FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 29

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE OTHER NEWS

Morgan Reinke

O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Included as a 2016 Rising Star on the Great Plains Super Lawyers list

Scott Breidenbach

Park Co. Realtors Named to the REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents in partnership with The Zillow Group

Sean Foss

Firm Partner, O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Included as a 2016 Rising Stars on the Great Plains Super Lawyers list

Stephen Welle

O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Included as a 2016 Rising Star on the Great Plains Super Lawyers list

Diane Nordhougen

Kari Myhre

Park Co. Realtors Named to the REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents in partnership with The Zillow Group

Park Co. Realtors Named to the REAL Trends America’s Best Real Estate Agents in partnership with The Zillow Group

Tracy Lyson Tatum O’Brien

Firm Partner, O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Selected to be on the 2016 Great Plains Super Lawyers list

Erik Opdahl

TCI Insurance Recognized as New Business Winner for second quarter sales

Firm Partner, O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss Included as a 2016 Rising Stars on the Great Plains Super Lawyers list

NEW HIRE NOT PICTURED Kristin Nelson Transaction Coordinator Flom Property Group, Keller Williams Roers Realty

happier IT Does your busy IT staff need some relief? Marco’s Managed IT Services free up your staff and empower you to run your business more effectively by proactively managing your IT infrastructure and troubleshooting issues. Less IT chaos is better for everyone. Get empowered at marconet.com.

30 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

taking technology further marconet.com

#mpowering

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

ByteSpeed is a technology solutions company located in Moorhead. Since 1999, they’ve provided custom-built Intel-based servers, desktops and laptops, ByteSpeed offers a wide variety of infrastructure products such as wireless solutions, high performance web caching appliances, data storage, content security solutions, disaster recovery, networking solutions including switches, routers and firewalls, and much more! Here’s what else Anna Hanson, ByteSpeed sales director, shared with us.

Q: What makes your organization unique?

While anyone can sell you a computer, it’s the exceptional service and support after the purchase that sets ByteSpeed apart. Rather than simply being a computer hardware supplier, ByteSpeed strives to be a “partner of choice” and resource for our customers. We are dedicated to helping our customers understand new technologies and become more efficient, and our passion for the industry shows in everything we do.

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

ByteSpeed launched Gravity Gaming (gravitygaming.com) in April, which is a new division focused on providing high-end, custom-built gaming PCs. Combining a passion for PC gaming with 17 years of computer industry experience, ByteSpeed created Gravity Gaming to bring users the ultimate gaming experience through high performance hardware, as well as outstanding customer service and support. Like ByteSpeed, all Gravity Gaming systems are built and supported at our headquarters in Moorhead.

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

Very few people in the Fargo-Moorhead area realize that a rapidly growing national computer manufacturer is based in the heart of their local community. We currently have customers in 48 of the 50 states nationwide.

FAST FACTS

Total employees: 60 Year founded: 1999 Office locations: Moorhead Leadership: Charles Homme, President; Scott Bleth, Vice President; John Tupa, Vice President;

Jason Redfield, General Manager.

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.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 31

For businesses that just need to get down to business.

You need to stay on top of your goals. We want to help. Our business banking experts will prepare you for what’s ahead.

Fargo • 492-2600 North Fargo • 239-5935 Moorhead • 299-7600 800-908-BANK (2265) Bremer.com Member FDIC. © 2016 Bremer Financial Corporation.

All rights reserved.

BRD 139 Fargo 0816.indd 1

Improve the Health and Productivity of Your Employees and Your Organization Sign up for the Affinity Employee Assistance Program for Chamber Members provided by The Village Business Institute (VBI).

EAP benefit services include: • Free personal counseling • Counseling regarding workplace issues • Financial and legal counseling • Supervisor tools and resources Implementing VBI’s Employee Assistance Program in your company will increase employee productivity, job satisfaction, and wellness.

For more information, call The Village Business Institute at 701-451-4900.

www.TheVBI.com

32 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

8/5/16 9:47 AM

Tailored To Fit Your Business Needs Business Banking Made Easy • Business Checking • Real Estate • Construction Loans

• Equipment Financing • Operating Lines of Credit • Business Vehicles

We’re ready to make your life better.

Stop by a Gate City Bank location, call us at (701) 293-2400 or (800) 423-3344, or visit gatecitybank.com for more information.

36 locations in North Dakota and western Minnesota.

Equal Housing Lender

Member FDIC

PASSION QUALITY INNOVATION 701.235.1121 • 888.526.1121 16 South 16th Street • Fargo, ND Passion. Quality. Innovation.

www.knightprinting.com

MEET THE VOLUNTEERS Learn more about some of our dedicated committee members. These are just two of the many people who help us do all that we do. We thank them for their support and service.

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

Paint, photography, BBQ competitions Q: What is best about living and working in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo?

The community. I have traveled the world over my career, and the one thing I love is the fact that I come home to Fargo. There are beautiful places to see, but Fargo is beautiful inside and out.

MEGAN STONER Chair, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Project Management Office, Manager, Marco Inc.

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

The relationships I have gotten from the Chamber community, such an amazing group of people involved to keep our community relevant and working to enhance our community in so many ways.

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

We are the funniest, best, most creative group. Everyone truly cares about the leadership program because we have all been through it and seen the drive and impact it has on the individuals that go through it.

Q: What is the best professional advice you have ever received?

There are really two things. 1, Do what you say you are going to do. 2, Fail fast – failing is OK as long as you don’t fail to continue.

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

I like to spend time with family and friends at the lake, on the Missouri River, hunting or traveling.

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

The variety of things to do! Art, culture, concerts, biking, hiking, family-friendly, and sports abound – a big city with a small town feel.

STEPHANIE MAIER Committee Member, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Executive AssistantDeputy Clerk, City of Moorhead

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

The chance to meet new people and get a different perspective on our community. I learn something new every time and hope I can share my perspective, as well.

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

We are fun, passionate, and we get to spend time with the cream of the crop in the business community!

Q: What is the best professional advice you have ever received?

To give everyone in the room your time and attention – from the doorman to the millionaire – we all have something to contribute and that should be valued.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 33

From bright ideas to bottom lines.

Let’s talk

business.

Whether you’re looking to do more, grow more, sell more or relax more (yes, that’s allowed) – Midco® Business can help you get there. Count on reliable, innovative communication tools backed by responsive service.

That’s technology that takes you places. Contact us today.

1.800.888.1300 • Midco.com/Business

Internet | Networking | Phone | Cable TV | Advertising © 2016 Midcontinent Communications. All rights reserved.

34 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

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!

Dakota Commons

metroplains.com Real Estate ‑ Property Management Dakota Commons is a 55+ senior affordable community located in West Fargo and is professionally managed by MetroPlains Management.

The property includes 30 two bedroom units with upscale amenities including a movie theatre, LED lighting, granite vanity bathroom and much more.

Eventide Fargo ‑ 32nd Ave

eventide.org Senior Housing with Services Eventide believes that quality of life is the cornerstone of quality care.

Eventide Fargo offers skilled nursing care, short‑term transitional care and spacious senior living apartments along with many amenities, like a pub, movie-theater, beautiful outdoor space and many activities.

Finley on the Roof

facebook.com/finleyontheroof Lighting Design Services Finley on the Roof offers custom holiday and event lighting at an affordable rate. While providing exceptional value and diligence, Finley on the Roof takes pride in a personalized approach to your lighting needs!

Immeasurably More Life + Business Coaching

immeasurablymorelifecoaching.com Consultants They coach and consult with individuals and business professionals to help them make lasting transformational change that allows them to reach their goals and bring more impact, balance and joy to their lives.

This is strength training for your mind, body and spirit.

Mind Shift

mindshift.works Employment Services Mind Shift works with business and employers to identify detail‑oriented jobs and tasks that people on the autism spectrum can do with greater accuracy and productivity. They recruit, assess, train, employ and contract with the company for that work.

Next Action Digital

nextactiondigital.com Marketing Services Kirsten Jensen believes that social media is meant to be a person‑to‑person exchange and that our brand stories are best told in social media by empowering our employees to connect, build relationships and share their experience. Jensen offers training programs that help organizations life up individual voices.

Nora Salon

norasalonfargo.com Business Services Nora Salon is an upscale beauty booth rental and retail salon located at 3800 Veterans Boulevard, Fargo.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

potbelly.com Restaurants A neighborhood sandwich shop specializing in toasty warm sandwiches, shakes, salads and soup. They have a drive thru, inside seating, patio and an awesome catering department.

The Private Collection

privatecollectionfargo.com Rentals Stage your home to sell quickly! Co‑owners Susan Hozak‑Cardinal and Trever Hill have hand-selected furniture and accessories to fit any space or style. Furniture rental is monthly and inventory includes items for living rooms, kitchens, family rooms, bedrooms, offices, bathrooms and outdoor areas.

Profile by Sanford

profileplan.net Health ‑ Nutrition Profile by Sanford helps you check all the boxes of what it means to live a healthy life. They combine nutrition, activity and lifestyle into a weight loss plan that is easy to follow and made just for you. This way you can stick with your new, healthier life and keep it going well into the future.

Sodexo MSUM

msumdining.com Caterers Sodexo MSUM’s philosophy is to provide a meeting and dining environment specialized to not only meet, but also exceed your expectations. Their team is committed to providing service and menu flexibility so that your event will be uniquely your own.

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

www.colepapers.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 35

BUSINESS IS GOING WELL. Good health can be your business advantage.

You have to keep your workforce healthy. You also need to attract them to your company in the first place. We can help you do both.

JO CARNEY FARGO • 701.282.1153

Contact our agents and build a competitive and affordable employee benefit plan.

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

36 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

MITCH KUDRNA FARGO • 701.282.1446

CELEBRATIONS

July 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.

BIOLIFE PLASMA SERVICES 25-year anniversary celebration 2617 12th Avenue South, Fargo biolifeplasma.com

IGNITE CHIROPRACTIC Grand opening celebration 5050 Timber Parkway S, Suite 120, Fargo ignitefargo.com

NETWORK CENTER INC. 30-year anniversary celebration 3487 University Drive South, Fargo netcenter.net

GATE CITY BANK Grand opening celebration 3800 51st Avenue South, Fargo gatecitybank.com

LIBERTY BUSINESS SYSTEMS 30-year anniversary celebration 3431 Fourth Avenue South, Fargo libertybusiness.com

RED BANTY BOUTIQUE Grand opening celebration 1133 19th Avenue North, Fargo redbantyboutique.com

VALLEY MORTGAGE, INC.

WOODSPRING SUITES

Groundbreaking 3315 45th Street South, Fargo valleymortgageinc.com

Grand opening celebration 1090 35th Street North, Fargo woodspring.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 37

New Fargo Location!

Sarah Barry Nupdal

It takes more than a job offer and housing options to make a move.

It takes a story.

Attorney

701.532.4000

Let our relocation team help...

Discover fargo Moorhead West Fargo

Business & Estate Planning Relocation Services www.GoosmannLaw.com 3523 45th Street South, Suite 100, Fargo, North Dakota, 58104 Fargo, ND • Sioux Falls, SD • Spencer, IA • Sioux City, IA

Your most important meeting of the day.

701.237.5031 | 1.800.288.7316

ParkCompany.com

They’re eager to learn about the business world, and acquire the knowledge needed to succeed in life after school. Junior Achievement volunteers serve as role models while inspiring the next generation of business leaders. Become a Junior Achievement volunteer today.

Your skills. Their future.

Contact Lisa Metzger at 701.241.8628 or lisam@jaum.org.

jaum.org/volunteer 38 THE BRIDGE · SEPTEMBER 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: SEPTEMBER 2016

Eggs & Issues: A Look at K-12 Schools Tuesday, September 6 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

YPN Off the Clock

Thursday, September 22 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.

Porter Creek Hardwood Grill

Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

Business Training: A Little Coffee and a Lot of Hustle

Transforming Workplace Relationships with REAL Communication

Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

Avalon Events Center

Wednesday, September 16 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sixth Annual Meeting

Thursday, September 22 | Noon to 1:30p.m.

Tuesday, September 27 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.

To find all of the upcoming Chamber and community events, visit fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Find all of our upcoming events online at fmwfchamber.com.

WE ARE YOUR PRINTING+ POWERHOUSE! J & M Printing has been in business for over 50 years and we are ready to help your team!

PRINTING • Commercial • Digital • Variable Data • Docutech • Large Format

MAILING SERVICES • List Management • Direct Mail

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS & MORE

GRAPHIC DESIGN • Print Design • Digital ads

JMPRINT.NET • CONNECT FOR A QUOTE • 701-476-0311 Rich Maras rmaras@jmprint.net 701-730-1623

Russell Martinson rmartinson@jmprint.net 701-866-2212

A Top 400 U.S. Printing Company for 2015 in Printing Impressions.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM · 39

BRIDGE THE

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

Community Builders

Bankers. Experts. Friends.

The Forum O F

F A R G O - M O O R H E A D