The Bridge, January 2016

2 | January 2016

Board of DirectorsJon Riewer Eventide Senior Living Communities

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

Chair ElectSteve Swiontek Gate City Bank

TreasurerDoug Restemayer D-S Beverages, Inc.

Immediate Past ChairThomas Astrup American Crystal Sugar Company

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

Committee ChairsAmbassador Cora TurnerMember Relations Northridge HospitalityAmbassador Jill ChristopherPublic Relations Ronald McDonald House Charities

of the Red River ValleyBusiness Training Dennis Cooley

North Dakota State UniversityLeadership FMWF Brianne Hoffman

ROERSMilitary Affairs Brian Shawn

American Red Cross - Red River Valley ChapterPublic Affairs Jim Roers

ROERSYoung Professionals Leslie WoodNetwork Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier PropertiesWomen Connect Pam McGee

Minnesota State University Moorhead

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

THE BRIDGE (USPS 124-430) is published monthly by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber. For each issue received, $3.50 of membership dues are applied toward subscription of the newsletter. Periodicals Postage Paid at Fargo, ND 58102 and at additional mailing offices. Publication No. 124430. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bridge, PO Box 2443, Fargo, ND 58108-2443; 218.233.1100.

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

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

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

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

4 State of the CitiesDetails on this gathering with four metro mayors

18 Economic Outlook ForumEvent details for this February forum

5 ChamberChoice 2016Get the dates and details for nominations

6 Eggs & IssuesUpcoming events and a recap of December’s talk on EPA

13 Military MattersHappy Hooligans receives Outstanding Unit Award

14 Women ConnectDetails on upcoming events and a recap of November and December

8 Business TrainingUpcoming events and a recap of customer service tips

20 YPNUpcoming event information and the YPN one to watch

12 Leadership FMWFFind what our Leadership class learned about non-profits in December

22 Member ProfileHow TNT Kid’s Fitness is truly a community partner

21 Member SpotlightSee our changes to this section and how to suggest someone for a future profile

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

29 Ambassador SpotlightWhere our member and public relations ambassadors are making a difference around town

30 New MembersFind out which organizations have recently joined The Chamber

31 Member MentionsSpotlight on four membersʼ offerings

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

34 Metro in the NewsCatch up on recent headlines in the metro region

36 Community EventsGet the rundown on events taking place in the area in January

Table of Contents

Ad Index

17 YEA!Event information for the first-ever investor panel Shark Tank

NDSCSNetwork CenterPark Co RealtorsPRO ResourcesRamada Plaza & SuitesSanford HealthSmartSearchStarion FinancialTalecris Plasma ServicesVocational Training Center

ArvigBoulger Funeral HomeColdwell BankerCole PapersEide BaillyFargo Public SchoolsFirst International BankIndigo SignworksJ&M PrintingKnight Printing

2630302812122935933

10341124243513132628

7 22

fmwfchamber.com | 3

One thing that is extremely important to me as president/CEO of The Chamber is to keep a keen eye on public policy issues affecting our metro area. Because roughly 90% of our members are small businesses, we realize that those organizations often don’t have the time or manpower to monitor all legislation, and as a Chamber, we do our best to watch those issues for our membership.

One issue that has many concerned is the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new Clean Power Plan, which could invoke onerous and excessive regulation on business, and is a noteworthy threat.

You’ll find more background on this issue in our recap of a recent Eggs & Issues forum on page 7. I can’t state enough that this issue will not only affect consumers, but all businesses. This makes me concerned not just for our members, but our community and our state. The fact is, overregulation can put small businesses out of business, and that is not something that benefits anyone.

Don’t underestimate the work that we do as a Chamber in regard to public policy. While there are countless other benefits to

Chamber membership, this is just one example of how we go to work for you by keeping our fingers on the pulse of legislation and regulation affecting the business community here in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo.

Our Public Affairs committee meets often to monitor various local, state and national issues that can either positively or negatively impact our region, and I am grateful for the work that they do for us. The committee then brings recommendations to the Board of Directors for final approval for support or non-support.

I encourage you to find a copy of our just-released 2016 Public Policy Guide that outlines our stance on a range of measures and issues and serves as a guide to our local and state government. It’s a publication that I take much pride in, and I sincerely hope that our membership and community finds it helpful.

We look forward to continuing to fight for the betterment of the business community in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo. And as Minnesota will be kicking off its legislative session shortly, it is that much more important. Stay tuned.

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Eggs & Issues7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

YPN - Off the Clock5:15 to 7:30 p.m.Proof Artisian Distillers, 414 Fourth Avenue North, Fargo

Business Training11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Holiday Inn Fargo

Chamber Day at 1 Million Cups 9:15 a.m.The Stage at Island Park 33 Fourth Street South

Operation Thank You - Celebration Finale4 to 6 p.m.D-S Beverages, Inc.201 17th Street North, Moorhead

State of the Cities 8 to 9:30 a.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Women Connect 3 to 5 p.m. | Social to followRamada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Operation Thank You 10 a.m. to Noon | 1 to 4 p.m.Hjemkomst Center

Craig Whitney President & CEO

Message

Chamber Events January 2016

Tell Us How We’re Doing!We want to make sure we’re delivering the best newsletter possible, and we need your honest feedback. Please share your opinions on The Bridge in a brief survey to tell us what we can do better.

http://svy.mk/1MksxIw

4 | January 2016

State of the CitiesThursday, January 14 | 8 to 9:30 a.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

#SOC16

Join us with the mayors of Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo and Dilworth during the 2016 State of the Cities address. Learn their priorities for leading their respective cities in the upcoming year and weigh in with your own opinions through live polling!

Xcel Energy’s Mark Nisbet and area radio host Scott Hennen will moderate.

Submit your question(s) to the mayors by emailing [email protected].

Registration (includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-Members: $40 in advance | $50 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Mayor Chad Olson City of Dilworth

Mayor Del Rae Williams City of Moorhead

Mayor Rich Mattern City of West Fargo

Mayor Tim Mahoney City of Fargo

Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.

AlerusApex Engineering Group

Bank of the WestBell State Bank & Trust

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Partners

Bethany Retirement LivingBremer Bank, N.A.

Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc.Choice Financial

Consolidated CommunicationsCornerstone Bank

Eide Bailly LLPEventide Senior Living Communities

Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitors Bureau

First International Bank & TrustFlint Communications

The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead Gate City Bank

Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation

Houston EngineeringJLG Architects

KFGO-AM Mighty 790Kilbourne Group

McGough ConstructionMinnesota State University Moorhead

North Dakota State UniversityRamada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Robert Gibb & Sons, Inc.ROERS

U.S. BankWanzek Construction

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Western State Bank

Presenting Sponsor

Executive Sponsors

Corporate Table Sponsors

Event Production Sponsor

2016

Awards

ChamberChoice

Presented By]

Who Do I Nominate]?

Nominations are Open]!

#ChamberChoice16

Your Business A majority of nominations received each year are self nominations!

• Does your staff work hard? • Is your business a hidden gem in the community that others should know about?

Here is your opportunity to get the recognition your company deserves.

Your Client or Another Well Deserving OrganizationShow appreciation for your clients, vendors or fellow business owners by nominating them for a ChamberChoice award.

All nominations are confidential unless you give us permission to provide your name. Nominations will remain open until February 1.

You may nominate more than once and in multiple categories!

How Do I Nominate]?

Online: fmwfchamber.com | Email: [email protected] | Mail: The Chamber, P.O. Box 2443, Fargo, ND 58108-2443

ChamberChoice2015 Winner


Small Business of the Year]


Small Not-for-Profitof the Year]


Entrepreneur of the Year]


Business of the Year]


Not-for-Profitof the Year]


Young Professionals Best Place to Work


The ChamberChoice Awards recognize the best of the best when it comes to businesses in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. These organizations make a significant impact, drive economic growth and help make this region a better place to work, live and do business. Winners exemplify excellence through proven growth or stability, innovation, creativity, community leadership and achievements.

Join us for The ChamberChoice Luncheon May 20 from Noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center.

For a full list of the nomination criteria and process, please visit us online at fmwfchamber.com

State of the CitiesThursday, January 14 | 8 to 9:30 a.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

#SOC16

Join us with the mayors of Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo and Dilworth during the 2016 State of the Cities address. Learn their priorities for leading their respective cities in the upcoming year and weigh in with your own opinions through live polling!

Xcel Energy’s Mark Nisbet and area radio host Scott Hennen will moderate.

Submit your question(s) to the mayors by emailing [email protected].

Registration (includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-Members: $40 in advance | $50 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Mayor Chad Olson City of Dilworth

Mayor Del Rae Williams City of Moorhead

Mayor Rich Mattern City of West Fargo

Mayor Tim Mahoney City of Fargo

Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.

AlerusApex Engineering Group

Bank of the WestBell State Bank & Trust

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Partners

Bethany Retirement LivingBremer Bank, N.A.

Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc.Choice Financial

Consolidated CommunicationsCornerstone Bank

Eide Bailly LLPEventide Senior Living Communities

Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitors Bureau

First International Bank & TrustFlint Communications

The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead Gate City Bank

Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation

Houston EngineeringJLG Architects

KFGO-AM Mighty 790Kilbourne Group

McGough ConstructionMinnesota State University Moorhead

North Dakota State UniversityRamada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Robert Gibb & Sons, Inc.ROERS

U.S. BankWanzek Construction

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Western State Bank

Presenting Sponsor

Executive Sponsors



2016

Awards

ChamberChoice

Presented By]

Who Do I Nominate]?

Nominations are Open]!

#ChamberChoice16

Your Business A majority of nominations received each year are self nominations!

• Does your staff work hard? • Is your business a hidden gem in the community that others should know about?

Here is your opportunity to get the recognition your company deserves.

Your Client or Another Well Deserving OrganizationShow appreciation for your clients, vendors or fellow business owners by nominating them for a ChamberChoice award.

All nominations are confidential unless you give us permission to provide your name. Nominations will remain open until February 1.

You may nominate more than once and in multiple categories!

How Do I Nominate]?

Online: fmwfchamber.com | Email: [email protected] | Mail: The Chamber, P.O. Box 2443, Fargo, ND 58108-2443



Small Business of the Year]


Small Not-for-Profitof the Year]


Entrepreneur of the Year]


Business of the Year]


Not-for-Profitof the Year]


Young Professionals Best Place to Work


The ChamberChoice Awards recognize the best of the best when it comes to businesses in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. These organizations make a significant impact, drive economic growth and help make this region a better place to work, live and do business. Winners exemplify excellence through proven growth or stability, innovation, creativity, community leadership and achievements.

Join us for The ChamberChoice Luncheon May 20 from Noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center.

For a full list of the nomination criteria and process, please visit us online at fmwfchamber.com

6 | January 2016

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

Preview into Minnesota’s Legislative Session

On March 8, Minnesota legislators will gather in St. Paul to kick off what is sure to be an interesting session. With close to a $2 billion surplus, there will be some big decisions to be made. From tax relief to infrastructure investment to the continued conversation of universal pre-k education, legislators will have their plates full as they rank priorities to support Minnesota residents across the state.

Join us on Wednesday, February 3, to hear from Senator Kent Eken and Representative Ben Lien as they share their views and priorities heading into the upcoming session.

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

Eken

Lien

EggsIssues&

#FMWFEggs

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

A Look at ND’s Oil MarketWith a new year comes a new outlook on one of North Dakota’s most valuable commodities. We’ve seen the numbers slowly decline in production and exports, but what does that mean? The uncertainty of the market, created by all sorts of economic and social stressors, is felt across the state.

Join us on Tuesday, January 5, to hear from Ron Ness, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Council, and Tax Commissioner Ryan Rauschenberger on what should be expected with the oil market this year.

Advocacy

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

Ness

Rauschenberger

Public Policy Guide Now AvailableThe 2016 Public Policy Guide is now available! Put forward by The Chamber’s Public Affairs committee, this document sets the policy priorities for The Chamber in the upcoming year. The annual guide is a collaborative effort that brings together stakeholders from a cross-section of our membership. Be sure to register for State of the Cities on Thursday, January 14, to reserve your copy. Or, view it online today at fmwfchamber.com.

fmwfchamber.com | 7

Advocacy

Presenting Sponsors Supporting SponsorsBeverage Wholesalers, Inc.

Cornerstone BankHome Builders Association of Fargo Moorhead

KLJMoore Engineering, Inc.

Wells Fargo

Eggs & Issues Looks at the EPA’s Clean Power PlanThe new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Clean Power Plan is sparking much concern and debate around the nation, but especially so in North Dakota as a state so reliant on coal. This was the topic of December’s Eggs & Issues forum.

We were joined by Commissioner Julie Fedorchak, chair of the North Dakota Public Service Commission, Dave Glatt, Environmental Health Section chief, North Dakota Department of Health, Mac McLennon, president and CEO of MinnKota Power, and Assistant Attorney General Maggie Olson, to learn more about what these regulations mean for the state.

The background is that in 2014, early EPA proposals indicated that the state of North Dakota would need to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 11% by 2030. One year later, and with little explanation, they are now requiring North Dakota to implement a 45% reduction instead.

Glatt explained that these regulations are about greenhouse gases and climate change, and that is important for us to take a critical look at moving forward as a state regarding this reduced carbon future.

He went on to explain the differences between the proposed rule and the final rule.

It’s important to note that over 70% of North Dakota’s electricity is coal-based; 15-18% wind, and the rest is renewable. The impact of the North Dakota plan has the potential to affect nine different states.

McLennon explained that for consumers, the cost of their electricity will rise because of these new regulations – even up to an estimated $400 to $450 million annually, and it may also see some North Dakota assets shut down.

Olson then gave us an update of the litigation and shared that in less than 12 hours, this became the most litigated environmental rule. North Dakota has filed a stay motion and is trying to show that these rules will lead to an economic loss, is a deprivation of our sovereign authority, interest and policies and will lead to irreparable harm.

After the information from our panelists, Mark Nisbet from Xcel Energy shared what his own company is doing in regard to this topic, and then conducted a Q&A with the audience in which we got some answers to how we can keep up with such quickly changing regulations and the possible impact of a new president on these rules.

It was our last month at the Radisson, who was a spectacular host to our Eggs & Issues events in the first year. We hope to see you in future months at the Courtyard by Marriott!

Everybody has to be part of this because this issue will affect everybody for

decades to come. If we do it right, we can lead the nation and maybe the world

in how to do this and maybe even still use coal. That is the challenge.

- Dave Glatt

“

The thing that hit us the hardest was that the proposed rule gave us credit for existing wind power. In the final rule, they said you only get credit for things built after January 1, 2013. That was a significant blow and a tough pill to swallow.

- Dave Glatt

“

8 | January 2016

Supporting SponsorsGOLDMARK Property Management

Network Center, Inc.Wanzek Construction, Inc.

Program Sponsors

Last year Merriam Webster’s dictionary stated that “culture” was the most popular word of the year. Now it has become one of the most important words in corporate board rooms, and for good reason. We have a retention crisis. New Dale Carnegie Training research shows that culture, engagement and employee retention are now the top talent challenges

facing business leaders. More than half of business leaders rate this issue “urgent” – up from only around 20% last year.

Join us for an interactive discussion with area leaders who are placing an emphasis on culture and learn the business results they’re seeing. Tonya Stende, chief engagement officer at Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND, will help attendees define culture and what it means for their organization, as well as understand the connection between an individual’s actions and organizational culture. You’ll be able to identify steps you can take to be the chief culture officer of your organization by living your business values daily.

Are you tired of being misunderstood? Do you want to speak with clarity, credibility and confidence? Power Up Your Message isn’t just finding the right words; it’s about finding the right approach.

Dawn Kaiser, inspirational speaker and author of Joy Notes: 90 Days of Delight joins

us for February’s Business Training to help attendees take a deeper look at themselves as communicators and explore how to make sure the interpretation of their message matches their intention. They’ll discover how to connect their head to their heart when opening their mouths. Attendees will walk away able to enhance their daily interactions with new thoughts, different approaches and a fresh outlook on communicating with others.

#FMWFTraining

Wednesday, January 13 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo

Wednesday, February 17 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn

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

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

Business Training

Join the Culture Club Why Culture is the Hottest Topic in Business Today

Power Up Your Message What to Say, How to Say it & When to Shut Up

Stende

Kaiser

fmwfchamber.com | 9

Business Training

Customer Service Tips Shared at December EventDecember’s Business Training was a special one where instead of having one speaker, the session was made up of audience participation. After a few prompts around the topic of customer service, each table discussed their answers and ideas together and then shared with the whole group. Moderated by Leann Wolff of Great Outcomes Consulting, the event also heavily

relied on Twitter, where attendees shared all of their tips that were displayed on screens at the front of the room at the Courtyard by Marriott. We had hoped to get to 60 tips total, but by the end, we had 75 tips that were shared! One of the favorite tips shared was called LAST, which stands for listen, ask, solve, think. Some others were to answer

customers’ questions before they even have to ask them, and to never take your frustrations out on the customer. To find more of our suggestions from the event, search #FMWFTraining on Twitter. Thanks to all that came out for this fun, interactive event!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! J & M Printing wishes you a prosperous and productive 2016. Thank you to our loyal customers for your continued trust in us. We’ve been in business for over 50 years and couldn’t do it without you.

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

Erick [email protected]

Rich [email protected]

Austin [email protected]

10 | January 2016

Transform Your Customer Experience with

Marketing + TechnologyAlign your marketing and technology

efforts and better engage your customers for bigger and better results.

Hilton Garden Inn

Power Up Your Message What to Say, How to Say it

& When to Shut UpLearn to enhance your daily interactions with new thoughts, different approaches and a fresh outlook on communicating.

Workplace Conflict Managing Awkward Moments

Understand your motivations and the impact of your actions within the workplace and learn communication skills to navigate difficult discussions.

Brand Architecture Building Brand Identity and Value

Hear about common pitfalls organizations make when branding, plus action items to help kick off your own brand development and positioning.

Learning to Lead

Learn proven habits that good leaders build into their leadership.

Onboarding Employees What’s My Role as a Manager?

Learn to provide an orientation that enhances employees’ success and helps

the organization to retain staff.

The Power of Being a Social Employee

Connect your professional goals to social media with examples to demonstrate the powerful voice

of the social employee.

Score Greater Insight into Your Bottom Line with a

Weekly ScorecardLearn what a weekly scorecard

consists of, and how every business can gain greater insight by using one.

Join The Culture Club Why Culture is the Hottest Topic

in Business today Learn to define culture and understand the connection between an individual’s

actions and organizational culture.

Holiday Inn Fargo Hilton Garden Inn Fargo Ramada Plaza & Suites Holiday Inn Fargo

Of Steel and Velvet The Two Sides of AccountabilityExplore common myths associated with

accountability and consider practical steps to get back on track for long-term success.

Holiday Inn Fargo

January 13

May 11

July 13

Tonya Stende

Eric Dukart & Johnathon Rademacher

John E. Trombley

Dawn Kaiser

Eric Piela

Kimberly Wold Janke

Steve D. Scheel

Jane Pettinger

Kirsten Jensen

Eric Newell

February 17

August 10

March 9 April 12

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Courtyard by Marriott

June 8

Business Training 2016 Event Calendar

North Dakota State College of Science

.edu

fmwfchamber.com | 11

Holiday Business After Hours Another Great Time What a great time we had at last month’s holiday Business After Hours! The treats were scrumptious (and the shrimp tree was a big hit once again!), the drinks were refreshing, the company was spectacular and a good time was had by all. Thank you to our sponsors Avis and Bernies Wines & Liquors, as well as to all our exhibitors and attendees. We also want to thank our ambassador Donn Groth for playing Santa. We hope to see you next month!

Business After HoursThursday, February 4 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo Moorhead

BAH

#FMWFBAH

Event Sponsor

Event Sponsors

701.237.5031 | 1.800.288.7316ParkCompany.com

Discover

fargo Moorhead West Fargo

It takes a story.

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

Let our relocation team help...

Relocation Services

12 | January 2016

Leadership Class Focuses on Innovation & Entrepreneurship

The above quotes are just a few sentiments expressed by the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class at our December 10 session hosted at the Red River Zoo. Focusing on diversity and the non-profit landscape, the Fargo Moorhead Coalition for Homeless Persons spent the morning guiding our participants through an impactful, and some may even say stressful, activity called the CRACKS Simulation. Each participant was given an identity of a homeless or poverty stricken area resident who had to navigate every day expenses such as a mortgage, rent, health care, food, etc., without having the means to pay for everything we so often take for granted. While they were only putting on an act, it really helped the class understand that homelessness and poverty are a real issue in our communities.

The second half of our day was spent at the new Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota building where we heard from Sara Stolt, a 2014 LFMWF graduate and the director of strategy and initiatives at Dakota Medical Foundation. She led us through a discussion on the non-profit landscape of the metro and state as well as discussed the world of fundraising.

While the day may have been trying, it certainly made an impact on each and every one of our participants.

Special thank you to Lisa Tate, executive director of the Red River Zoo, and her staff for being such gracious hosts.

Program Sponsors

Leadership FMWF

FA

RG

O

PU B L I C S C H

OO

LS

Annual Report As evidence of Fargo Public Schools commitment to our families

and community patrons, we offer the 2014-15 Annual Report, so you may learn more about the students,

staff, programs, and results achieved by our District.

Thank you for your continued support as we serve the citizens of Fargo by providing its students an excellent educational experience.

Access the full document at www.fargo.k12.nd.us/AnnualReport

I am so thankful for what I have. This can happen to anyone at any time.

I had absolutely no idea how hard it can be to stay afloat for some people in our community.

“


Military MattersAir National Guard 119th Wing, “Happy Hooligans” Receives 17th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Sixty years ago, with the formal authorization of the 119th Wing of the Air National Guard, the state of North Dakota began its journey with one of the most storied Air Guard units in the nation. Whether flying F-16 fighter jets to help secure our nation’s capital city after 9/11 or fulfilling a global mission remotely piloting aircraft in support of warfighters

throughout the world, the 119th continues to be recognized for its excellence.

In fact, our Air Guard Wing, known affectionately and respectfully as the Happy Hooligans, recently received its 17th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA) during a ceremony at the Air National Guard Base in Fargo. Seventeen times the Air Force has recognized what we have known for 60 years. The Happy Hooligans will always be at the top of their game when our country needs them.

Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota adjutant general, presented the unit award to the Happy Hooligans.

According to the Guard, the AFOUA recognizes units across the active-duty Air Force, Reserves and Air National Guard that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement, including successful involvement with combat operations or exposure to hostile actions by an opposing foreign force.

Despite the lower visibility that comes from no longer piloting jets above our city, the members of the 119th Wing of the Air National Guard remain a critical part of the fabric of our community.

fargo

moorh

ead west fargo ch

amber

honor star

Honoring Our Service Members

(701) 239-1700 | SMARTSEARCH.INFO

CAN CUSTOMERS FIND YOU ONLINE?WE CAN HELP!

14 | January 2016

featuring

FawnGermer

Tuesday, January 19 | 3 to 5 p.m.Social to follow after the eventRamada Plaza & Suites

Work-Life RESET

RegistrationChamber Members: $40 in advance | $50 at the door Non-Members: $60 in advance | $70 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

Why Attend?Germer is a high-energy speaker you can’t missCelebrate Women Connect’s one-year anniversarySpecial event surprises plannedNetwork with other area businesswomen Forge new connections and make an impact Learn about a new connection program within Women Connect

What if you stared down everything that isn’t working for you in your life—whether it involves work, home, relationships or your deepest self—and did a reset? What if you unleashed all the untapped power inside of you and let ‘er rip? Instead of avoiding uncomfortable situations and conversations, you could expect them and use them to define your boundaries.

Get ready for the call-to-action that will move you to a greater inner balance and perspective. Join best-selling, Oprah-featured author Fawn Germer to learn how to deal with with obstacles, make decisions, take charge of your self and reboot your life by marking a turning point.

receive a

copy!


featuring

FawnGermer

Tuesday, January 19 | 3 to 5 p.m.Social to follow after the eventRamada Plaza & Suites

Work-Life RESET

RegistrationChamber Members: $40 in advance | $50 at the door Non-Members: $60 in advance | $70 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

Why Attend?Germer is a high-energy speaker you can’t missCelebrate Women Connect’s one-year anniversarySpecial event surprises plannedNetwork with other area businesswomen Forge new connections and make an impact Learn about a new connection program within Women Connect

What if you stared down everything that isn’t working for you in your life—whether it involves work, home, relationships or your deepest self—and did a reset? What if you unleashed all the untapped power inside of you and let ‘er rip? Instead of avoiding uncomfortable situations and conversations, you could expect them and use them to define your boundaries.

Get ready for the call-to-action that will move you to a greater inner balance and perspective. Join best-selling, Oprah-featured author Fawn Germer to learn how to deal with with obstacles, make decisions, take charge of your self and reboot your life by marking a turning point.

receive a

copy!

Leading Outside of Your Comfort Zone Being a leader in a military environment can be challenging, exciting and rewarding. When it comes to leadership, there is a difference in how one leads in the military versus the civilian world, but the lessons derived from these unique experiences can be applied in all leadership capacities. Lieutenant Colonel Teresa Luthi McDonough and Major Penny Ripperger, both members of the 119th Wing of the North Dakota Air National Guard, will share their experiences of what it is like to be a female officer in the male-dominated environment of the U.S. military and how these experiences have

shaped them as leaders and taken them outside of their comfort zone on more than one occasion.

McDonough and Ripperger will touch on several topics during their presentation, such as their personal views on how to earn respect, overcome the sometimes negative stereotype of being a

confident woman and most importantly, staying true to oneself. A woman does not have to act like a man to be an effective leader in the military (or civilian world). You can be an amazing leader by recognizing and appreciating the differences between men and women leaders and having the courage to accept yourself and your female leadership style.

McDonough has been a member of the ND Air National Guard for 26 years and was deployed to Baghdad, Iraq in 2006, where she was responsible for coordinating the security for the Prime Minister of Iraq and the president of the Council of Representatives. Today, McDonough serves in the Air National Guard as the commander of the newly formed 176th Intelligence Squadron.

Ripperger will celebrate her 20-year anniversary with the ND Air National Guard in 2016 and served as the youngest commander in the history. In 2010, she transitioned to the Fargo Veteran Affairs healthcare facility as a communication specialist. Today, Ripperger is the communications and change management manager at CoreLink Administrative Solutions and continues to serve as the public affairs officer of the Guard in a part-time capacity.

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

Tuesday, February 23 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m.Avalon Events Center

Presenting Sponsors

Supporting SponsorsAmerican Crystal Sugar Company

Bell State Bank & TrustBremer Bank, N.A.

Discovery Benefits, Inc.Eventide Senior Living Communities

First International Bank & TrustGate City Bank

Heritage Homes, LLC/ Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Premier PropertiesMicrosoft

Minnesota State University MoorheadNetwork Center, Inc.Otter Tail Corporation

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Vogel Law Firm

Please consider bringing unused shaving cream or razors to be donated to the New Life Center.

McDonough

Ripperger

Women Connect

#FMWFWC

16 | January 2016

Talking About Mentoring: November’s RecapTwo days before the Thanksgiving holiday, about 250 women gathered at the Avalon to learn about mentoring. November’s Women Connect panel brought in Tami Norgard and Jade Rosenfeldt from Vogel Law Firm, who shared their own mentor-mentee story together.

They shared surprising facts, like statistics that show mentoring makes you more successful, including:

▪ 93% of men with mentors were more likely to end up in middle or upper management than those without mentors. For women, that number is 56%.

▪ People with mentors are 5x more likely to be promoted.

▪ If you are a mentor, you are 6x more likely to be promoted!

Rosenfeldt shared some good advice to be the mentor you wish you had, as well as the five attributes of a great mentor relationship, which includes being trusting, honest, supportive, engaged and fun.

Norgard then shared her five tips for being the mentee, which is is to ask for time, demonstrate initiative, don’t fear tough subjects, admit when you’re struggling and ask for opportunities. Each provided many real-life examples for how to apply this.

They also provided some group discussion activities for attendees, and at the end, held a Q&A to address questions from the audience, including the fear of favoritism and how to balance mentoring someone of the other gender.

Attendees enjoyed trays of cookies, flash drive gifts from Vogel and probably most of all, the invitation to join in five recommended mentor activities, including hot yoga, a book club/knitting group and a happy hour gathering.

Women Connect

#FMWFWC

Insights on Self-Empowerment in December The Avalon was looking merry and bright for the December Women Connect session with Darcy Simonson of Insights with Darcy. Speaking on You-Turn: Get on the Road to Self-Empowerment, Simonson’s soothing voice took attendees through a host of tips for freeing their inner self critics.

Simonson took us through a few exercises to examine our own experiences and beliefs and work on taking a “you-turn” on critical thoughts.

Attendees also were able to enjoy a festive hot cocoa bar and delectable brownie fudge sundaes before a social following the session and an announcement of next month’s event.

It takes consciousness and compassion to catch that critical voice in action and reframe it in a way that is kind and more accurate.

- Darcy Simonson

“


YEA!

First YEA! Investor Panel Shark Tank Taking Place in March Everyone is invited to attend and support the event of the year for the inaugural Fargo Moorhead Young Entrepreneurs Academy. A panel of 12 investors from local businesses will hear pitches from the remarkable local high school and middle school students in a competition based on ABC’s “Shark Tank” series. The aspiring CEOs will be thrown into the “Shark Tank,” where they will vie for real funding from the panel of local investors. One company will be chosen to move on to the semi-finals. Winners of the semi-finals will be flown to Washington, D.C., to compete in the national finals at the opening event of America’s Small Business Summit, hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with support from Sam’s Club. These young entrepreneurs will compete to win college scholarships ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 and a variety of business startup packages.

YEA! is an intensive entrepreneurship training where students develop business ideas, write business plans, conduct market research, pitch their plans to a panel of investors, and actually launch and run their own real, legal, fully formed companies and social movements. Complete with dynamic guest speakers from the business community and exciting behind-the-scenes trips to local companies, the fun, projects-based YEA! approach empowers students to take charge of their futures in a profound way.

The enthusiasm and success of the students are empowering for the entire community. YEA! strengthens the community, and the community strengthens YEA!

Presenting Sponsor Program Sponsors

Supporting SponsorsConcordia College

Eide Bailly LLPThe Forum of Fargo Moorhead

Gate City BankLa Quinta Inn & Suites

Mezzaluna Microsoft

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Moore Engineering, IncNorth Dakota State University

Radio FM MediaStarion FinancialTrueNorth Steel

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Wednesday, March 16 | 5:30 to 7 p.m.MSUM, Gaede Stage

Attendance is free. Registration required.

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

If you know a student who would like to be involved in the 2016-17 Chamber’s Young Entrepreneurs Academy, contact The Chamber at 218.233.1100 or go online at fmwfchamber.com. Applications are being accepted now!

18 | January 2016

ECONOMICOUTLOOK2016

February 25 | Noon to 1:30 p.m.Holiday Inn Fargo

#EOF16

Catch up on global and local economic trends at the 2016 Economic Outlook Forum and learn how it affects our business community. You’ll hear an informative keynote address and get the results of the recent Economic Trends Survey.

Paulsen to Keynote at Economic Outlook Forum 2016Jim Paulsen is the chief investment strategist at Wells Capital Management. An investment management industry professional since 1983, Paulsen is nationally recognized for his views on the economy and is a frequent contributor to both CNBC and Bloomberg TV.

Registration (Includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $35 in advance | $45 at the door Non-Members: $50 in advance | $60 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Presenting Sponsor

FMWF Business Conditions Survey Sponsors

AlerusBank of the West

Bell State Bank & TrustBethany Retirement LivingBeverage Wholesalers, Inc.

Bremer Bank, N.A.Choice Financial

Consolidated Communications

Cornerstone BankFirst International Bank & Trust

Flint Communications, Inc.JLG ArchitectsGate City Bank

Goldmark Property ManagementKFGO-AM Mighty 790

Midcontinent Communications

Moore Engineering, Inc.North Dakota State University

ROERSU.S. Bank

Wanzek ConstructionWells Fargo Bank, N. A.

Western State Bank

Executive Sponsors




Operation Thank YouOTY

Watch out for Chamber volunteers on January 20-21 as we hit the town to deliver packets to all member businesses. Our biggest ambassador-driven event of the year, our goal is to personally thank each member while delivering our 2016 Metro Profile & Directory, new window clings, flyers and more. See you soon!

For more information on Operation Thank You or to find out how to become involved, contact The Chamber at 218.233.1100.For More Information

Join usJanuary 20 & 21

Event Sponsors

20 | January 2016

#FMWFYPN

Program Sponsors

Off the Clock Sponsor

Off the Clock Thursday, January 20 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Proof Artisan Distillers, 414 Fourth Avenue North, Fargo It’s time for your monthly fix of networking! Come check out one of downtown Fargo’s newest hot spots, Proof Artisan Distillers. Join fellow young professionals and be sure to bring your business cards. Appetizers will be provided, but drinks are on your own.

No Registration Required

Networking to BusinessFinancial Wellness: The Importance of Credit Scores Tuesday, January 19 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Boy Scouts of America, Northern Lights Council, 4200 19th Avenue South, FargoWhy is your credit score so important? When you apply for a credit, mortgage or even a phone hookup, your credit rating is checked. Credit reporting makes it possible for stores to accept checks, for banks to issue credit or debit cards and for corporations to manage their operations. Eric Miller, Capital Credit Union, will share the ins and outs of credit scores and how to keep yours in check. If you’re ever looking to make any big purchases, this event is for you.

RegistrationChamber Members: $15 | Non-Members: $25 Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Erick Roder - Account Executive, J&M PrintingThere is no other way to put it: Erick Roder is awesome! Whether he is cracking jokes at socials or helping out at one of the many events he volunteers at, things are always a little brighter when Erick is around. He joined the YPN’s member services committee earlier this year and is now taking the lead finding new and exciting volunteer opportunities so our members can give back to the community. Because of all he does, we are very excited to have Erick as a YPN member.

Events

One to Watch

YPN Young Professionals Network

Sign Up for Corporate Cup! Registration opens up for this fun team activity on Monday, February 8 at 8 a.m.

Save the Date!This year’s event is on May 26 from 3:15 to 8 p.m.

at Minnesota State University Moorhead.CORPORATE CUP


Member Spotlight

Sign Up for Corporate Cup! Registration opens up for this fun team activity on Monday, February 8 at 8 a.m.

Save the Date!This year’s event is on May 26 from 3:15 to 8 p.m.

at Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Fargo Linoleum Co., Inc. is a long-standing business in the metro area and a long-time Chamber member as well. Here’s what President and Owner Jana Bye shared with us.

Q: Please share your company history and what you offer today. A: Fargo Linoleum was founded in downtown Fargo in 1926 as a full-service retail floor covering company. Today, we continue to be a full-service floor covering company offering carpet, hardwood, sheet vinyl, ceramic tile, custom showers, laminate, luxury vinyl tile and, of course, linoleum. As we begin our 90th year in business, we continue to offer residential and commercial floor covering expertise, free estimates, design advice, a full range of floor covering products and full-service guaranteed installation.

Q: What do you like best about doing business in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo? A: It has been exciting to be a part of the revitalization of downtown Fargo, our home since 1926, and we enjoy the loyal relationships we have with so many people and businesses in the Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo communities.

Q: What is one thing you most want our area or other Chamber members to know about you? A: At Fargo Linoleum, we strive to be informed about the best floor covering products to fit the needs of our customers, and equally to help you choose from the wide array of products to best suit your project.

Q: What’s your best business tip? A: It’s very important to learn what your customer wants and how they perceive the project will unfold and work within your structure to make that happen. Quality communication with your employees and customers is important to long-term success.

Q: What do you like most about being a member of The Chamber? A: The Chamber has been a driving force in the quality business climate of our communities over the years and continues to be a promoter and visionary organization as we move forward. It’s great to be a part of such a strong Chamber.

Q A&

The Chamber is redoing our Member Spotlight section of The Bridge! Starting in January, this section will now profile various member companies with unique stories to tell (with the aim of one or two a month). 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 [email protected].

Chamber Profile & Directory Now AvailableThe 2016 Metro Profile and Member Directory is now available! This annual publication is an informative and valuable resource for our members. The directory serves as a guide to the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area that includes both alphabetical and categorical listings of all our members as well as important community information. Our Chamber volunteers will deliver the Profile & Directory during our Operation Thank you event January 20 & 21. Can’t wait that long? No worries! View it online today at fmwfchamber.com.

22 | January 2016

If there’s one word that captures what TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics does for our community, it’s collaboration. Well, that and fitness, anyway.

To say that TNT is busy would be an understatement. So would saying that they’re making a big impact on the needs of our

community. In a nutshell, TNT works with children 18 months to 18 years and adults with special needs to deliver physical activity experiences. In fact, they serve 2,000 people a week via onsite programs like gymnastics, cheer, fitness, open gyms and birthday parties, and also through offsite programs in 21 area schools, 26 Head Start classes and nine daycare centers a week. When people come to them, they are able to use TNT’s facility; when they go offsite, they bring a mobile fitness program to kids during their day.

Even though TNT is a non-profit, that doesn’t mean their services aren’t expert. They employ professionals with exercise science and adaptive physical education degrees to run their programs, as well as hire students currently studying these fields in area colleges for part-time help. Thirty five students from the Jamestown School of Physical Therapy and some from Wahpeton come in for hands-on experience working in the schools and child care centers for their doctorate programs. Not to mention that TNT is the first area gymnastics center with an occupational therapy staff person.

TNT was formed in 2005 and officially opened in July 2006. At first, they served 134 kids a week, but they’ve grown steadily since. “It’s been a great journey teaching our community about who we are and who we service,” Kim Pladson, executive director, said. “That’s always an obstacle because it’s new and different.

While their offering is unique, it’s definitely filling a big need in the region, which was evidenced by their 2015 ChamberChoice win for Small Non-Profit of the Year. Pladson says they were honored to win the award, and that it validates that they have good business practices.

Aside from their partnerships with area schools and child care centers, they’re also excited about two new partnerships – ones that will coincide with their soon-to-be-expanded facility that will double the size of their existing building. Scheduled to be complete in March 2016, this new 20,000 square feet space will bring in permanent partnerships with Haley’s Hope and the Anne Carlsen Center. This will also open a new child care center there with 55 spots. “Think about what that can do for our community and captivating our resources together for a one-stop shop,” Pladson said.

It goes right along with the values she says are most important to them as an organization—collaborating and working with private and public agencies. “We were built on collaboration,” Pladson stated. “It’s rewarding to see people utilize our facility that otherwise wouldn’t have access to us because of our partnerships.”

But their involvement in the community involvement doesn’t end there! TNT staff also makes a point to volunteer their time around the region. They like to volunteer with Streets Alive and the Fargo Marathon youth run. “Some people may not understand how much people on the non-profit side give up their time too because we want to reinvest back into our community and make these events fun,” Pladson shared.

Even with all these amazing programs in place and plans in the works, TNT still has more to come. One new initiative they’re working on launching is a worksite wellness program. Led by Nate Hendrickson, TNT’s COO who completed The Chamber’s Leadership program last year, they are looking to offer teambuilding and wellness offerings through new partnerships.

Other goals going forward are simply to maximize the new space, layer programs to impact the community and serve populations in the community that are underserved, Pladson said. “We really look at what we can be to our community. That’s always our first goal. At the end of the day, there are people that want to be physically active, and that’s what we help them do. We help them find their potential through movement.”

If you’d like to help TNT help the community, save the date for their annual “In Their Shoes” event, January 28 at Holiday Inn Fargo. Proceeds from this event go into running TNT’s programs and operations and funds 60% of their Head Start program partnership.

TNT Kid’s Fitness A True Community PartnerSmall Non-Profit of the Year Award Winner

Member Profile


Northwest Auto Body Certified by Assured Performance Northwest Auto Body has been officially certified by Assured Performance, a non-profit consumer advocacy organization for maintaining the right tools, equipment, training and facility necessary to repair the participating Automaker brand vehicles according to the manufacturer’s specifications. In achieving their certification, Northwest Auto Body is now an integral part of the most advanced repair capable and efficient auto body repair network in the world. Adding to their credentials, Northwest Auto Body is officially recognized by Assured Performance, FCA, GM, Ford and Hyundai. To become certified and officially recognized by the various automakers, Northwest Auto Body passed the rigorous certification process essential to help ensure a proper and safe repair of the new generation of advanced vehicles. Less than 5% of body shops across the nation are able to meet the stringent requirements to become officially certified and recognized.

Record Keepers Receives Certification Record Keepers has achieved AAA Certification status with the National Association for Information Destruction for the eighth 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, non-paper media destruction and records storage. They are currently the only company in North Dakota to have custodial certification for records storage.

Spotlight Media Launches New Business Magazine Spotlight Media, the publishing company that produces Fargo Monthly, Bison Illustrated and Design and Living Magazine, announced the launch of a new magazine focused on the booming business scene in our region. This monthly publication, which will be called Fargo INC!, has been two years in the making and will promote the surrounding business community’s growth with quality and creative content. Fargo INC! will run

in place of Spotlight Media’s former fitness publication, Stride, which will now do a special run two times a year. In addition to the region’s staple industries such as education, health care and agriculture, Fargo INC! will focus on startups, entrepreneurs, business leaders, the booming technology industry, and new developments and economic news in our region.

Western State Bank Wins Award, Donates to Boosters Western State Bank recently made a $1,300 contribution to the West Fargo Sheyenne Mustangs Booster Club. Western State Bank developed a program to give back to the Sheyenne Mustangs throughout the school year.

During the Sheyenne Mustang’s varsity football season, Western donated $10 for each point scored by the Mustangs during regular season home games. The Sheyenne Mustangs will use the donation for various school activities throughout the year.Western State Bank also recently received Rebuilding Together’s 2015 Builder Award. This award is given to local organizations that have served and supported Rebuilding Together throughout the year. Western State Bank was among five local organizations that received the award. Kelly Engstrom, mortgage loan officer at Western State Bank, was awarded the 2015 Builder Award for individuals. Engstrom was recognized for her involvement with Claws for a Cause, an annual event held by Rebuilding Together. Engstrom was among four individuals who received the individual Builder Award.

CompaniesDawson Insurance Agency Acquired Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC (MMA) announced it has acquired Dawson Insurance Agency. Dawson Insurance generates $10 million in revenue and has 58 employees, all of whom are joining MMA’s upper Midwest region. It will continue to operate out of its two existing offices in Fargo as Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company, under the existing leadership of Tom Dawson and Dan Armbrust.

Great Plains Food Bank Receives Donation Land O’Lakes, Inc. donated 40,000 pounds of frozen LAND O LAKES® Macaroni & Cheese to the Great Plains Food Bank. This is the Land O’Lakes First Run Program’s 84th donation since it was established in 2010. The program is committed to donating truckloads of fresh product year round, made specifically for food banks to help alleviate hunger nationwide. “We rely greatly on our food industry partners who so generously give of their product,” said Marcia Paulson, director of marketing and development for the Great Plains Food Bank. “This Land O Lakes donation comes at a perfect time during this Thanksgiving season, and will be distributed immediately to seniors and families in need across North Dakota and Clay County, Minnesota.”

Heartland Trust Company Gives $25,000 for 25 Years Heartland Trust Company held a ribbon cutting and open house on December 1 at its office in Fargo to celebrate the company’s 25th year of business. To commemorate the occasion, the company gifted $25,000 in $5,000 increments to

five local non-profits. Recipients included YWCA Cass Clay, North Dakota 4-H Foundation Inc., Fargo Public Schools Development Foundation, The Village Family Service Center and FM Area Foundation.

Moore Engineering to Open Bismarck Office Moore Engineering President and CEO Jeffry Volk, PE, announced the company will open an office in Bismarck in December. Bismarck will be the West Fargo-based company’s fourth location, joining West Fargo and Minot in North Dakota, and Fergus Falls in Minnesota. Moore’s Bismarck office will occupy space in the Kirkwood Bank and Trust building.

NDSCS Honors with Steeple Awards; Releases Graduate Placement Report North Dakota State College of Science recently honored a number of employees with the annual Steeple Award. Presentations were made in Wahpeton to Building Services staff involved with the “Building Services Innovation and Teamwork”

project and NDSCS-Fargo staff involved with the “Building for the Future at NDSCS-Fargo” project. The Steeple Award honors those who have “Climbed New Heights” and is presented to an individual, employee group or committee for using new and innovative methods to accomplish the recipient’s role on campus.

NDSCS 2015 graduates are benefitting from the strong North Dakota economy. According to the NDSCS 2015 Graduate Placement Report, upon completion of their program of study, the majority of NDSCS career and technical education graduates are employed in the state of North

Dakota. The report revealed that 99% of career and technical education graduates are employed or continuing their education with 69% in a field related to their program of study. 66% have accepted employment in North Dakota, while 88% of those pursuing additional education will do so at a college or university in North Dakota.

Member News

24 | January 2016

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Member News People

Schaeffer Olson

Absolute Marketing Group chose Jamie Schaeffer and Nick Olson to be client relations interns for the fall semester. Both have made outstanding impressions since coming to Absolute. Schaeffer is a marketing major at North Dakota State University. She is originally from Beulah, North Dakota, and enjoys photography and baking. Olson is a business administration major at Minnesota State

University Moorhead. Originally from Karlstad, Minnesota, he enjoys football, hunting and fishing.

Breen

AE2S (Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.) has hired Paul Breen as a project coordinator in the firm’s Fargo office. His primary focus is property acquisition and management services related to the FM Area Diversion Project. Breen brings more than 32 years of professional experience in managing and coordinating projects. Before joining AE2S, he was vice president of operations at Maintenance Engineering in Fargo. Breen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from North Dakota State University in Fargo.

Stark

Jessica Stark has recently joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties as sales associate. Stark is a licensed Realtor® in Minnesota and North Dakota, and will concentrate on residential real estate sales. Originally from Erskine, Minnesota, Stark attended Minnesota State University Moorhead for early childhood education. Prior to joining BHHS, she worked at Buffalo Wild Wings in Fargo.

Anderson Schmidt Cook Choice Financial in Fargo has hired Heather Anderson as a frontline specialist, Honey Bueno as an accounting specialist and Brian Schmidt as a personal banker, and promoted Jordan Cook to assistant vice president – business/ag banker and Kristina Holtgard to client account manager I with Choice Financial Insurance. Anderson graduated from North Dakota State College of Science with an associate’s degree in liberal arts. Anderson has previous experience in the customer service industry. Bueno graduated from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Bueno has previous experience in the insurance industry. Schmidt graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s of science in finance. Schmidt has previous experience in the banking industry. Cook joined Choice Financial as credit banker in January 2013. He previously was a credit analyst with a local financial institution and was also an FDIC bank examiner. Cook graduated from North Dakota State University with a major in finance and minor in economics and is involved in the Young Professionals Network. Holtgard joined Choice Financial in 2012 as a customer service representative. Holtgard earned a Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree in marketing and management from the University of North Dakota.

Becker

Dabbert Custom Homes has named Julie Becker as the office manager. She will focus on advancing and guiding the company’s growing office staff along with maintaining her current role in the client services department. Becker has been with DCH for over two years and has 10-plus year of experience in management and customer service.

Holtgard

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Our Sales and Catering Team has built a reputation for excellent service and complete attention to detail.

Call 701-281-7164 to start planning your next special event.


Member News People

Nordquist Roll

Essentia Health has hired Nurse Practitioner Susan Nordquist in the Walk-In Care Department at the West Acres Clinic and Clinical Nurse Specialist John E. Roll in the Pain Management Department at the 32nd Avenue Clinic. Nordquist earned a master’s degree in nursing from Minnesota State University Moorhead. She is certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Nurses

Credentialing Center. Roll’s previous experience includes an extensive background in hospice. Roll earned a master’s degree in nursing from the University of North Dakota. He is certified as an adult health/gerontology clinical nurse specialist by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Carpenter

Terry Carpenter, lead service engineer at Far From Normal Supply, Inc. recently won the title of world champion at the Roland DG Global SE Awards in October in Hamamatsu, Japan. Carpenter competed against 20 other service engineers from 18 countries during the two-day event. Carpenter qualified for the world championship event after winning the national competition in June. During the event, Carpenter and his competitors participated in a variety of challenges ranging from timed written tests to hands-on troubleshooting exercises to test their knowledge

of Roland printer hardware and software.

Mayo

Fargo Sleep Inn & Suites has hired Emily Mayo as sales manager for the hotel. Mayo has over five years of sales and customer service experience. Previously, she worked as sales manager for a cellular provider, as well as an insurance advisor for an insurance agency.

Schroyer

FBS - Creators of Flexmls has hired Kristina Schroyer as the QA lead for the Native Applications development team. Schroyer is a graduate of Frostburg State University. She previously worked at Automic Software as a senior QA engineer. She will be working remotely from her home in southwest Florida.

Shao Haarstick Schiller

Fiebiger, Swanson, West & Co., PLLP announced that Pan Shao has been promoted to in-charge accountant, Cheri Haarstick to manager and Mark Schiller to senior manager. Shao graduated with a master’s in accountancy from North

Dakota State University in 2011. She received her CPA designation in 2013. Haarstick graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and earned her Master of Business Taxation degree from the University of Minnesota in 2011. Schiller graduated from Concordia College in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts, accounting. He also received graduate certificates in estate planning and financial analysis from the College of Financial Planning. Schiller previously was a partner for a CPA and investment advisory firm in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Deplazes

First Class Mortgage welcomed Jodi Deplazes to its team as a mortgage consultant. Prior to joining the First Class Mortgage team, Deplazes was a mortgage loan officer at local credit unions for over 10 years. She held a real estate license in North Dakota and Minnesota from 2005 to 2008. She earned an associate’s degree from North Dakota State College of Science.

Walker

Gehrtz Construction Services and Zerr Berg Architects, both of Fargo, have hired Donna Walker as a construction accountant. Walker has an Associate of Arts degree in accounting/business administration from Lake Region State College in Devils Lake.

Doll Eidenschink

Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead has hired Tahra Doll as office coordinator and Sami Eidenschink as membership & marketing coordinator. Doll studied education at Northern State University and Minnesota State University Moorhead. Most recently, she worked as a paraprofessional with the West Fargo School District. Eidenschink holds bachelor’s degrees in public relations and advertising and

women and gender studies from North Dakota State University. Most recently, she worked in retail sales and as an intern with Sanford Health and Veteran’s Affairs Medical Hospital.

Motteberg

Lynn Motteberg is the new team leader with Keller Williams Roers Realty Market Center in Fargo. Motteberg ran a top retail company for 10 years with a store in the top five in the nation in sales. She was named Store Manager of the Year out of 1,600 stores in 2011 and chosen to be part of the culture team for the company. Motteberg was the Fargo Moorhead Woman of the Year in 2012. She has successfully run the FM Team of Keller Williams Roers Realty for the past two years and has helped to create one of the top five teams in Keller Williams North Central Region.

Tri Phan, Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota’s certified representative for the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), has received the agency’s first annual Dove Award for outstanding service and dedication. The dove is the symbol for LSSND and stands for dedication, outstanding service, value and excellence. Phan, a native of Vietnam who arrived in the United States as a refugee in 1990, has been with LSSND since 1991. He became certified as an accredited representative for the BIA in 1998.

Brownlee

Moore Engineering hired Jim Brownlee as a municipal administration specialist. Brownlee graduated from Moorhead State University with a degree in accounting and became a certified public accountant in 1985. He was an audit manager for the local government division at the North Dakota state auditor’s office for 17 years, the director of finance and tax for Grand Forks county for two years and the City of West Fargo’s city administrator for the past 11 years.

Law

Bill Law, assistant director of North Dakota State University’s Division of Performing Arts, has been named the division’s director of development. Law also holds the position of executive director of BisonArts, an organization working in support of the Division of Performing Arts. Law has a bachelor’s degree in music from NDSU and a master’s in music from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Dolan

The North Dakota University System has filled a position that was opened after a departmental reorganization took place in November. Tammy Dolan has taken on responsibilities as the system’s chief financial officer, beginning November 2, 2015. Dolan previously served as the management and fiscal analyst at the Office of Management and Budget. She has 25 years of experience in state government.

26 | January 2016

Member News People

Nelson

Carl Nelson has joined Nexus Innovations in the Fargo branch as a solutions specialist. Nelson graduated from Concordia College with a Bachelor of Arts in business management information systems.

Lautt Chevalier

National Hospitality Services (NHS) announced Tanner Lautt as accountant and Michelle Chevalier as regional director. A West Fargo native, Lautt earned his associate’s degree in accounting from Moorhead Tech in 2013. His previous accounting experience includes both auditing and accounts payable. NHS worked with Chevalier for years in her previous role as regional sales director for InterContinental Hotels Group.

Hammond Nettleton Hansey

Brent Hammond, Sarah Nettleton and Alisia Hansey have joined Park Co. Realtors as REALTORS®. Hammond specializes in residential real estate and is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and the

North Dakota Association of REALTORS®. Nettleton earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from Minnesota State University Moorhead. She specializes in residential real estate and is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and the North Dakota Association of REALTORS®. Hansey is a graduate of North Dakota State University. She specializes in residential real estate and is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and the North Dakota Association of REALTORS®.

Pedigree Technologies has hired Joseph Johnson as a senior engineer, Baron Smart as a QA engineer, Amber Willenburg as a software intern, Sam Wagner as a product technician and Alex Martinez as a market development specialist. Additionally, Daniel Damico has moved into a new position of implementation manager. Johnson, Smart and Willenburg will each be responsible for different aspects of evolving and maintaining the OneView Software. Wagner’s new responsibilities include testing and shipping hardware devices. Previously, he worked as a unit training manager with the North Dakota Air National Guard. Martinez will be assisting the sales team by generating and qualifying leads. Previously, he worked as an account manager. Damico has worked with Pedigree since 2011 as an account manager and since 2013 as a software consultant.

Plains Art Museum announced the selection of Andrew J. Maus as the new museum director and CEO. Maus is currently the executive director of the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona, Minnesota, and will assume his new duties at Plains Art Museum on January 25, 2016. Maus attended Minnesota State University Moorhead, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in studio art in 2002 and a Master of Science in public administration/nonprofit management in 2011. Maus first worked at Plains Art Museum while in college. Upon graduation, he joined The Village Family Service Center in Fargo. His next job brought him back to Plains Art Museum in a series of roles as director of education, curator of public programming, and curator for the museum from 2006 to 2010.

Herman

Jeff Herman, MBA, RN has been hired by Prairie St. John’s as chief executive officer. Herman has 25 years of experience in the health care field. He was previously the CEO and managing director for The Meadows Psychiatric Center and Universal Community Behavioral Health in central Pennsylvania. He also served as the CEO for the Human Development Center in Duluth, Minnesota.

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Member News People

Pesek

The Principal Financial Group announced Jamey Pesek has joined its Dakotas Business Center as a financial advisor. Pesek has more than 15 years working in the insurance/financial services industry, most recently serving as a financial planner at Gate City Bank.

Glaoui Hillier

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center in Fargo has hired Aladin Glaoui as food and beverage director and Amanda Hillier for inside sales and administrative support. Glaoui began his hospitality career in New York City and has extensive background from his experience at various hotels and resorts on the East Coast before moving to this area. Hillier graduated from North Dakota State University with

bachelor’s degrees in journalism/mass communications, public relations and natural resources management. Along with previous experience in these fields, she also operates a pet sitting business in the Fargo Moorhead area.

Murdoch

Laura Murdoch has joined Record Keepers as customer support specialist for their Bismarck and Fargo Records Storage and Document Destruction operations. Murdoch earned a bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University and has over eight years of customer service experience.

Schempp Hedstrom

Roers Property Management Residential has hired Naomi Schempp as a site manager and Jenna Hedstrom as a property management coordinator. Schempp graduated from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication. She was previously employed with an expansive church based out of the Fargo Moorhead area, and before that she spent several years as a supervisor in

the banking industry. Hedstrom has been with ROERS as an intern over the last year. She received her associate’s degree from Alexandria Technical and Community College and holds a bachelor’s degree from NDSU in management communication.

Danzey

Tanner Danzey is the newest addition to Onsharp and will be working as a developer. Danzey started his career as a systems engineer in Fargo after graduating from West Fargo High School. He has an extensive background in the development field.

Wollitz Lipson

Western State Bank hired Darrin Wollitz and Heather Lipson as customer service representatives. Prior to joining Western, Wollitz worked at Best Buy and Frandsen Bank & Trust in Grand Forks. Lipson previously worked at Best Buy as a home theater sales consultant and Target as a front desk/guest service shift leader in Fargo. She is currently studying business at Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Lexen Greene Nguyen Jobe

Wold Crabtree Kawlewski Krug TMI Hospitality announced the following new hires at its Fargo corporate office: Rachael Lexen as a purchasing analyst, Fantasy Greene as a director of regional sales, Derek Nguyen as a revenue manager, Katie Jobe as a talent acquisition coordinator, Tyler Rafteseth as a technical support I, Travis Wold as a property support manager, Alyssa Crabtree as human resources assistant, Joseph Kawlewski as project manager and Lynne Krug as telecommunications billing analyst. Lexen previously worked as a project manager and has a degree in economics and business from South Dakota State University. Greene has over 10 years of sales experience with extensive continuing education in sales, marketing, team development, high-level revenue achievements and strategic planning. Nguyen previously worked the hospitality revenue field and holds a hospitality management degree from University of Central Florida. Jobe previously worked in restaurant management and has a human resources degree from Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Rafteseth has prior experience in transportation and holds a degree in information and communication technology from North Dakota State College of Science. Wold has an extensive hospitality background and previously worked in hotel management. Crabtree previously worked in restaurant management and holds a degree in human resources from Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Kawlewski has a drafting background in construction and holds a degree in architectural technology from Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Krug has extensive experience in the IT industry and holds a network engineering and management degree from Computer Learning Centers, Inc. in Alexandria, Virginia.

Miller Fatz Roberts

United Blood Services has hired Rob Miller as its new donor recruitment manager based out of Fargo and Jennifer Fatz and Weldon Roberts as donor recruitment representatives in the Fargo-Moorhead area and eastern and central North

Dakota communities. Miller has been with United Blood Services for 12 years and previously held the position of senior donor recruitment.

Green

Volt Workforce Solutions hired Stephen Green as a technical business development manager. Green brings high energy and over nine years of sales, account management, information technology and telecommunications experience to the team. He is originally from Ulen, Minnesota, and attended Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Fisher Marihart

Zerr Berg Architects has hired Jake Fisher as a BIM manager and Samantha Marihart as a student intern architect. Fisher has a Bachelor of Science in construction management with a minor in business administration from North Dakota State University. Marihart is attending the architecture program at NDSU, where she is pursuing a masters in architecture.

Rafteseth

28 | January 2016

Integrity, Advocacy and Empowerment

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Chamber Day at 1 Million Cups Wednesday, January 6 9:15 a.m. | The Stage at Island Park Join us for Chamber Day at 1 Million Cups on January 6 and hear from long-time Chamber member Howard Dahl, founder of Amity Technology.

Amity Technology follows in the proud tradition of a family that has been involved in the manufacturing business in North Dakota for more than 50 years.

1 Million Cups is a free, weekly national program designed to educate, engage and connect entrepreneurs. Developed by the Kauffman Foundation, it is based on the notion that entrepreneurs discover solutions and network over a million cups of coffee.

The Fargo 1 Million Cups focuses on the ideas and innovations from tech community. Each Wednesday, a local startup gives a presentation to the audience, followed by a question-and-answer session to move their ideas forward and help them grow their business.

No registration required. For more information, visit 1millioncups.com/fargo.

Dahl


Ambassador Spotlight

What were The Chamber Ambassadors Up to this December?Jeanna Sender from Cable One Business and Derek Drege from Red River Financial from The Chamber’s Membership Relations Ambassador team volunteered for yet another great organization: the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program and Nokomis Child Care Centers of The Village Family Service Center. Drege is also one of the big brothers for the organization. Great people make a great community!

Our very own Public Relations Ambassador Richie Maris was able to give a personal tour of the Roger Maris museum to Rudy Giuliani, who is a big fan of the New York Yankees, when he was here for the Voices of Vision event.

Our Public Relations Ambassadors help out at many Chamber events. Here, Brian Kingsley from Midcontinent Communications and Jill Christopher from the Ronald McDonald House lent a hand at our Voices of Vision event. We appreciate all of their help!

www.firstintlbank.com

For All Your Business Banking NeedsSean Elsner, Commercial Loan Officer 3001 25th St S • Fargo, ND [email protected]

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30 | January 2016

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!

BC Contracting bccontractingco.comContractors - GeneralBC Contracting is a full-service general contractor active in multi-family, commercial and mixed use construction. Their team has the relationships in place, the knowledge and proven ability to complete your project successfully.

Cognosante, LLCcognosante.com Healthcare ServicesCognosante provides high-quality contact center and operational services for state and federal governments. Their services manage enterprise communications for health care providers, members and patients through multi-channel, multimedia communications and management services.

Energy Media Groupenergymediagroup.com

MarketingEnergy Media Group Inc. was founded on the principle that “energy powers everything.” They are a world-class digital marketing agency, combining proven marketing strategies at the highest levels of execution to ensure their clients realize measurable results across digital, social and mobile platforms.

Farmers Insurance Group - District Office farmers.comInsurance - Investments - Employee BenefitsThe Farmers Insurance Group of Companies make up one of the country’s largest insurers of vehicles, homes and small businesses and provide a wide range of other insurance and financial services products.

Goodyear Building, LLC612.242.8224Real Estate - Commercial/Industrial

Haaby Real Estatehaabyrealestate.comReal EstateHaaby works with buyers and sellers of residential real estate in the Fargo Moorhead and surrounding areas.

Lodging Opportunity Fund Reitlodgingfund.com Real Estate – InvestmentThey acquire and operate hotels in the heartland offering opportunistic and agile, hands-on management and income and growth.

N3 n3results.comConsultantsN3 delivers large scale, outsourced sales and marketing campaigns with proven success in technology demand gen. They employ highly skilled, customer focused people and a performance based approach. Headquartered in Atlanta, N3 has offices in Costa Rica, Dublin, London, Seattle, Singapore and Fargo.

North Dakota Grain Growers Association ndgga.comAssociationsNDGGA’s mission statement is to serve North Dakota wheat and barley producers with education, leadership, information and representation to increase profitability and enhance value added opportunities.

Pam Matchiepammatchie.comExecutive CoachingMatchie offers Fortune 100 soft skills training for employee satisfaction and client commitment specializing in executive retreats and customer service and sales training for medium and large organizations. She is an engaging keynote speaker.

Porter Creek Hardwood Grillportercreek.comRestaurantsIn the spirit of wine country, Porter Creek offers a fresh contemporary menu. Signature dishes include fire-roasted meats and rustic vegetables such as rotisserie chicken, duck, oven roasted halibut, salmon and handcrafted flatbread. Porter Creek offers 50+ wines by the glass, tequila and scotch flights. Inspire, Create, Explore!

Precision Plumbing, Inc. precisionpe.comPlumbing ContractorsPrecision Plumbing, Inc. is a steadily growing company that has been serving the FM area for over a decade. Their reputation matters to them and their work is trustworthy. They provide their customers with the highest level of quality services at fair and competitive prices.

Proof Artisan Distillersproofdistillers.comBeverages - LiquorsProof Artisan Distillers is Fargo’s first production distillery and tasting room. Handcrafted gin, vodka, whiskey and specialty liquors are created on-site using local ingredients in our beautiful copper hybrid still. Proof ’s tasting room offers their unique spirits and gourmet tapas selections.

New Members

FIRST REALTY

F A R G O , N D 581032731 12TH AVE. S 701-293-3423

www.coldwellbankerfm.comF A R G O , N D 581032731 12TH AVE. S 701-293-3423

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Red River Dance & Performing Company strives to provide a safe and fun learning environment that stimulates students to achieve their personal best. At Red River Dance & Performing Company, not only will you find quality dance instruction, but also a deeper passion and

appreciation for the arts.

NAWIC is an association for women employed in the construction industry and helps to advance the causes of all women in construction, from tradeswomen to business owners.

Monica Hart Interior Design is a full-service design studio offering interior design services including space planning and product selection for new construction and remodels. Retail products and services that include flooring, blinds,

bedding, accessories and artwork!

Originating as a coffee shop, Luna Fargo has grown into a neighborhood kitchen and wine and beer lounge, providing an ever-evolving menu of

real food that honors our local providers and your Midwest tastes. Have your experience with them or enjoy it at home. Begin

your day with coffee, stay for dinner and leave with some great cheese and fresh baked bread. Celebrate the “every day” with their thoughtful wine and beer selections, paired with your favorite comfort foods and made from scratch with the finest local, organic and sustainable

ingredients whenever possible. Bring the kids or leave them at home. They accommodate all sorts and all appetites.

Member Mentions

Red River Dance & Performing Company

NAWIC

Monica Hart Interior Design

Luna Fargo

32 | January 2016

SPHERION STAFFING

LODGING OPPORTUNITY FUND REITNATIONAL HOSPITALITY SERVICES

FARGO ANTIQUES & REPURPOSED MARKETAVALON EVENTS CENTER

DESIGN DIRECTION

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

Relocation on November 52730 Seventh Avenue South, Fargospherion.com

10-year anniversary on November 12 3211 Fiechtner Drive South, Suite 1, Fargo designdirectionfargo.com

Grand opening on November 51635 43rd Street South, Suite 305, Fargo lodgingfund.com

Grand opening on November 4 5258 51st Avenue South, Fargofarmantiques.weebly.com

Grand opening on November 3 2525 Ninth Avenue South, FargoAvalonFargo.com

Relocation on November 5 1635 43rd Street South, Suite 305, Fargonationalhospitality.biz

Celebrations


KINETIC LEASING, INC.

HATCH REALTY

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE - DJ COULTER AGENCY, INC.

Relocation on November 20 4215 31st Avenue South, Suite B, Fargodjcolter.com

Relocation on November 192575 41st Street South, Fargokineticlease.com

Relocation on November 24 4215 31st Avenue South, Fargo livefargomoorhead.com

RIDING ON ANGELS WINGS BATTERY GIANT OF FARGOGrand opening on November 19 3402 13th Avenue South, Suite G, Fargobatterygiant.com/battery-stores/fargo-battery-store

Grand opening on November 13 5062 120th Avenue North, Felton ridingonangelswings.org

Celebrations

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

Have A Gallant

New Year!

34 | January 2016

Metro in the NewsThe Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community continues to receive recognition nationwide for its high quality of life and standard of living. Here are just a few of the acknowledgements from recent months.

Best Performing Small MetroMilken Institute’s annual Best-Performing Cities report named Fargo, ND-MN the #1 best small metro for the second year in a row. They reported that our well-diversified economy with strength in finance, insurance, health care and higher education helped offset declines in shale-oil exploration. While more recent job growth tapered off, Fargo outpaced the national average in both job and income gains. The Milken Institute report identifies the latest trends and most relevant factors powering regional growth. The index uses a comprehensive, fact-based set of criteria to rank the nation’s metropolitan areas.

Fargo Second Most Diverse City in the United StatesFargo was named the second most diverse city in the U.S. by HomeInsurance.com. To find the most diverse cities, analysts looked over U.S. Census Bureau statistics that include the number of residents self-identifying as being of multiple ancestries and also looked at the different mixes in each city. Fargo holds the second spot with 43% of residents reporting multiple ancestries. About 27% reported being of German descent.

Moorhead Best Small City in AmericaNerdWallet named Moorhead the best small city in America. They looked at places that hit three key areas: economic health, affordability and quality of life. They examined over 1,300 cities with fewer than 75,000 residents and used data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. Moorhead topped the list because of its affordable housing, low unemployment and a good work-life balance, plus the added economic boost from Fargo.

Fargo Best College Town to Find a JobFargo was named the #1 best college town to find a job by ZipRecruiter. To find out which 20 college towns had the best job markets, they looked at anonymized application actions from their database of job postings, calculated the ratio of job applicants to open positions, and ranked U.S. college towns according to the level of competition.


Thompson

Announcements

GROW. TOGETHER.SANFORD MEDICAL CENTER FARGO

As you grow. We grow. Together.Opening 2017

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1622 Main Ave | Fargo, ND | 701.297.9696 | [email protected] locations in Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, Alexandria & St. Cloud

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

Express Graphics

Chamber Hires Communications & Publications Intern Tyler Fischbach has joined The Chamber as a communications and publications intern through the spring 2016 semester. Fischbach is a current senior at Minnesota State University Moorhead and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications with an emphasis in interactive multimedia. He also works at Tradehome Shoes as an assistant manager and at Ramada Plaza & Suites as a guest service representative.

In his spare time, Fischbach enjoys spending time with friends, exercising, playing guitar and watching documentaries. He is originally from South Saint Paul, Minnesota, but Fargo’s growing community and balmy weather will surely keep him around here for a while.

Fischbach will be assisting the communications team with various duties, such as social media, production and layout of printed and electronic marketing materials, and video production. We are glad to have him on board!

Chamber Promotes Thompson Mickayla Thompson was promoted to membership relations coordinator. In her new role, Thompson will manage and coordinate the activities of the Public Relations and Member Relations Ambassador committees, including organizing ribbon cuttings and overseeing the annual Operation Thank You event. Thompson first joined the Chamber staff in 2014 as administrative services coordinator after having worked for 10 years as an office specialist at Sanford Health.

Petersen Moving Into New Role Gail Petersen will be starting a new role, effective February 1, 2016, as YEA! program coordinator. In this position, Petersen will recruit new students for the 2016-17 Young Entrepreneurs Academy program. She previously served as membership relations coordinator and administrative services coordinator with The Chamber.

Petersen

Fischbach

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

fmwfchamber.com

Community Builders

Bridgethe

Send your events to [email protected] to see them on our community calendar!

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Free Craft Projects at Awesome Art AfternoonRDJ Recreational Center

Lunch and Learn: Ethical Issues at the End of LifeHospice of the Red River Valley

In Their ShoesHoliday Inn Fargo

North of Normal FrostivalOpening Kickoff - U.S. Bank Plaza

Girl Scout Open House Info NightDakota Horizons

Bravely Done: See Beyond Your LimitationsMicrosoft Commons Building

Community Events - January 2016

Documents

The Bridge, January 2016