The Bridge May 2015

BridgetheMay 2015 | Vol 18 | No. 9

3 ChamberChoiceAnnouncing the 2015

ChamberChoice candidates

12 Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo

Class partners with area nonprofits

Corporate CupTeams are sold out but

volunteers are still needed

May 2015 Bridge Cover.indd 1 4/17/15 12:31 PM

For more than 20 years, The Chamber has recognized the outstanding businesses and organizations within the community that make a difference in our region every day. The ChamberChoice Awards are an opportunity for us to shine a befitting spotlight on all the incredible member businesses that help our economy grow and thrive.

Applying for the awards involves a rigorous process that begins with nominations, and

I’m ecstatic to announce we received nearly 300 nominations—an incredible testament to the engagement of our members and the vitality of our member businesses. As the 59 applications came pouring in at the end of March, we soon realized how lucky our community is to be home to so many exciting, worthwhile businesses, nonprofits and entrepreneurs. I do not envy the judges or their difficult task of evaluating the applications to determine the 2015 winners.

Recognizing our members is a crucial component of our job as your Chamber of Commerce. We know how hard you all work, and we all enjoy one of the best local economies in the nation because you have mastered your work yet continue to innovate and inspire. Our hope is that all businesses, nonprofits and entrepreneurs involved with

ChamberChoice — from nominees to candidates to finalists to the eventual winners — feel honored for the recognition received; it is well deserved and well placed.

We work hard to ensure the benefits of winning a ChamberChoice award don’t stop after everyone has left the award show. The seven winners are featured in their own member profile in The Bridge and on our blog. For the first time this year, the 2014 ChamberChoice winners had the opportunity to present their best practices at one of our Business Training sessions.

We have also discovered that some past participants found unexpected benefits in the process. The rigorous application process gives applicants an in-depth look of their organization, drawing attention to details they often overlook. Applicants, and especially winners, have also been impressed by the relationships that can develop from the exposure they receive throughout the process.

Please consider joining us on May 19 as we recognize the stars of our business community. The ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon promises to be a thrilling event with surprises, laughter and maybe even some tears.

Board of DirectorsDoug Restemayer D-S Beverages, Inc. Chair of the BoardJon Riewer Eventide Senior Living Communities Chair ElectJudd Graham Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. TreasurerBernie Dardis Indigo Signworks Immediate Past ChairChuck Driscoll Red River Refrigeration, Inc. Member at LargeThomas Astrup American Crystal Sugar CompanyKyle Dorow Essentia HealthJodi Duncan Flint Communications, Inc.Don Gronke State Farm InsuranceKatie Hasbargen MicrosoftPeggy Kennedy Minnesota State Community and Technical CollegeNorm Leslie National Hospitality ServicesKathy Lewin City of West FargoPaul Richard Sanford HealthSteve Swiontek Gate City BankJeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

Chamber StaffCraig Whitney President/CEOJim Parsons Vice President of Finance/OperationsJulie Doggett Information Systems AdministratorDarren Dunlop Business Development ManagerSamantha Gust Professional Development CoordinatorTracy Meckler Membership & Advertising Sales ManagerGail Petersen Membership Relations CoordinatorElly Peterson Government Affairs & Advocacy CoordinatorTracy Powell Director of Events & ProgramsBobbi Jo Rehder Events CoordinatorKaylyn Stroh Publications & Program Marketing CoordinatorMickayla Thompson Administrative Services CoordinatorJulie Yourczek Administrative Support Coordinator

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

8 16 20

2 | May 2015

20 ProfileSmartt Interior Construction designs for tomorrow

14 Business TrainingLearn about leadership excellence from past ChamberChoice winners

28 New MembersLearn about the members that recently joined The Chamber

16 Women ConnectUnderstand how to connect with presence

33 Community EventsCheck out all the fun things happening in our community

21 SpotlightFind out which members can help with your outdoor spaces

4 Chamber ChallengeRegister to be a sponsor or purchase tickets for the golf ball drop

22 Company NewsRead about awards and recognition members have received recently

8 Advocacy EventsFrom Kegs & Issues to Legislative Wrap-Ups, it's a full month

24 People NewsSee the latest new employees, promotions and awards

Message

Events Members

May 19 | Noon to 1:30 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

James Cunningham Master of Ceremonies

In true awards show fashion, James Cunningham will again have us laughing and on the edge of our seats waiting to hear who the 2015 ChamberChoice award winners are.

Be sure to vote for the People’s Choice Award online May 1 through 15. Watch for more details in the eBridge and on social media.

Register at 218.233.1100 or at www.fmwfchamber.com.

Presented By

Corporate Table SponsorsAlerus Financial

The Apartment Movers, Inc.Bank of the West

Bell State Bank & TrustBethany Retirement Living

BlackRidgeBANKCass County Electric

Cooperative Inc.Choice Financial

Cornerstone BankDiscovery Benefits, Inc.

Eide Bailly LLPEnventis

Games Galore Party RentalGate City Bank

GOLDMARK Property Management

Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development

CorporationHeartland Trust Company

InterceptEFTKFGO-AM Mighty 790

KLJMicrosoft

Moore Engineering, Inc.North Dakota State University

ROERSTNT Kid’s Fitness &

GymnasticsU.S. Bank

Western State Bank

Event Production Sponsor

#ChamberChoice15

Spotlight on ChamberChoice CandidatesWe have so much to be proud of when it comes to our dynamic,

thriving business community, and we are pleased to recognize so many deserving companies, nonprofits and entrepreneurs who are making a difference in the region.

It is with immense pride that we announce the following as candidates for the 2015 ChamberChoice Awards. Congratulations to all of you on this achievement!

Amanda McKinnonAmerican Red Cross - Red River

Valley ChapterAnimal Health Clinic

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier PropertiesBlackRidgeBANK

Border States ElectricBrady NashByteSpeed

Choice FinancialCourtyard by Marriott Fargo-

MoorheadDan Hurder

Discovery Benefits, Inc.Emergency Food Pantry, Inc.

Erik HatchFargo Air Museum

Flint Communications, Inc.Gate City Bank - Corporate OfficeGreater Fargo Moorhead Economic

Development CorporationHatch Realty

Heritage Homes, LLCHistorical & Cultural Society of

Clay County Homeward Animal Shelter

Hospice of the Red River ValleyHotel Donaldson

International Marketing Systems, LTDJLG ArchitectsKelly Norton

Make-A-Wish Foundation of North Dakota

Mark LindquistMatthew Lachowitzer

Matt’s Automotive Service CenterMedical Weight Loss SpecialistsMidcontinent Communications

Minuteman PressMoore Engineering, Inc.

NetWork Center, Inc. Nor-Son, Inc.

Office Sign CompanyOnsharp

Plains Art MuseumRobert Gibb & Sons, Inc.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River Valley

Ryan FritzStarion Financial

The Apartment Movers, Inc.Thrivent Financial

TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics Total Imaging

TrueITYouthworks

luncheonChamberChoice2015

Award Sponsors

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

Bankers. Experts. Friends.

Sponsors as of publication date.

May Bridge Spread.indd 1 4/23/15 10:06 AM

#FMWFGolf#FMWFGolfWhy so serious?

Wednesday, July 15 | Noon

Oxbow Country ClubGOLF!

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! NO! It’s the Helicopter Golf Ball Drop!Proceeds to benefit the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!)

Buy a golf ball for a chance to win $1,000!

Individual Golf Ball Tickets - $55 Golf Balls - $2012 Golf Balls - $50

For every ticket sold, a numbered golf ball will be placed randomly in a bucket and dropped from a helicopter between 6 and 6:30 p.m. while it hovers over the driving range at Oxbow Country Club. The first participant whose numbered golf ball goes into the hole or closest to the hole will win the grand prize of $1,000! The contestant who purchased the winning golf ball will be announced at the social.

Raffle tickets can be purchased at The Chamber office; online at www.fmwfchamber.com; or by calling 218.233.1100. Participants will be assigned a numbered golf ball(s) that corresponds to their purchase.

YEA! is a year-long program that teaches middle and high school students how to start and run their own real businesses. The YEA! program puts students on a path to college and career success and enables students to transition successfully to adulthood; achieve higher financial literacy; develop business acumen; build character based on personal principles and values; connect to local business leaders; become involved in their communities; and pursue their dreams by harnessing their creativity and energy.

The program also creates a culture of innovation in schools and communities across the nation as well as fosters an innovative and entrepreneurial mindset in young people, educators and community members.

Leader Board SponsorSponsored by

4 | May 2015

Superheros and Villians is the theme for this year’s annual golf tournament. Teams and sponsors are invited to participate in the theme but it is not required. Prizes will be given for the best themed Tee Box or Hole Sponsor and best theme-dressed team.

Teams and Tee Box Sponsorships have sold out but Hole Sponsorships are still available and include:§Two complimentary golf passes and admission to the 19th

Hole Happy Hour where you can provide a door prize.§Opportunity to greet and network with each foursome as

well as give away prizes and specialty items or gifts.§Recognized on event web page with a link to your

company’s website.§Company name recognition in The Bridge.§Signage on printed materials and exclusive signage at

the hole.Please call 218.233.1100 to reserve your hole sponsorship or be

put on the waiting list for a team or tee box sponsorship.

GOLF!2015-16 Call for PresentersShare your expertise at Business Training or Women Connect

The Chamber needs presenters for numerous ongoing professional development and networking programs and events. Speaking at a Chamber event is a great way to network, and to build credibility and name recognition in the community.

The application can be found at www.fmwfchamber.com or you can request one by contacting Bobbi Jo at 218.359.0525. Deadline to apply is Friday, May 29.

Benefits of being a presenter include:§Two complimentary guest passes to your session.§Promotion of your session and company on The Chamber

website.§Two-month promotion of your session and company in our

monthly newsletter, The Bridge, to nearly 3,000 recipients.

§Promotion of your session and company in the weekly eBridge to more than 10,000 recipients.

§Electronic invitation to 10,000 recipients that includes a video of you describing your session.

§Publication in the corresponding program calendar online.

onnectomen. Business. Life.

Business TrainingThe Business Training series is

a 12-month program designed to enhance the success of our community’s businesses through a variety of targeted, practical and cost-effective training events.

Women ConnectWomen Connect sessions address

distinct challenges professional women face in today’s business environment.

“As president of a busy communications agency, it can be a challenge to squeeze speaking engagements into my schedule but participating in the 2014-15 Business Training series was well worth it. I was fortunate enough to be asked to speak on generational marketing and was thrilled to have just shy of 150 attend. The presentation generated a lot of good buzz for us and even resulted in some new business inquiries.The Chamber staff made it so easy. I felt like all I had to do was show-up! It’s one of those events that demonstrates what a well-run, engaged Chamber can do for business!”

Jodi DuncanFlint Communications, Inc.

“As someone who is committed to helping women achieve goals in their personal and professional lives, I was honored to speak at the Women Connect event in March. Although I've spoken at conferences nationally, this presentation gave me the opportunity to empower people in my own community about a topic that really matters to me.I encourage you to consider sharing your expertise with others in the Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo community. These local connections provide a unique opportunity to see the outcomes of your work (or presentation) first-hand.”

Jodi HeilmanBell State Bank & Trust

www.fmwfchamber.com | 5

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

#FMWFBAH

Thank You!Business After Hours was a huge success

We had a terrific crowd at last month’s Business After Hours! Nearly 700 attendees enjoyed an evening of business-building conversations and a huge selection of delicious appetizers and drinks.

Thank you to Heritage Homes, LLC for sponsoring and to the Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center for hosting and, as always, providing a great atmosphere and great food!

Business After HoursThursday, June 11 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

RegistrationMembers Only$22 in advance | $32 at the doorRegister at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

6 | May 2015

Eggs & IssuesND Water Issues and Trends: Industrial, Ag, and Energy

Steve Burian, CEO of Advance Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. (AE2S) and co-chair of the Valley Prosperity Partnership, will discuss water issues and trends in North Dakota with regards to how H2O impacts everything from our domestic and

industrial growth, to sustained agricultural success, to keeping the energy industry booming.

Burian is a North Dakota native who has devoted his career to water consulting. He co-founded AE2S in 1991 and grew it from a two-person environmental, civil and geomatics firm into a company that employs more than 300 people with offices throughout the Upper Midwest and Upper Rocky Mountain Region, including the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo region. He has received several regional and national awards recognizing his leadership and dedication to the water and engineering profession.

Eggs & IssuesImpact of changing oil prices

Last month, Niles Hushka, CEO of KLJ Solutions, assured a crowd of over 160 attendees that although Bakken oil production may be slowing at the moment, North Dakota has a strong future in the energy industry.

Hushka provided an in-depth and informative talk about the barriers the Bakken and North Dakota face in the oil industry, including one of the top issues: difficulty accessing refineries. He also shared an optimistic outlook on growth and job creation across the state, explaining that the Bakken oil formation will be in play for years to come.

Check out what one of the attendees had to say:

Kegs & IssuesLearn about the Minnesota Vikings stadium

You don’t want to miss Kegs & Issues, a very unique and special event where we will host Michele Kelm-Helgen, chair of the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA). The MSFA will own and operate the new Viking stadium. Michele leads the

Authority in its role of planning and designing the new world-class stadium and will be giving us the insiders scoop on the new facility.

After the presentation, stick around to ask questions and network while enjoying hot dogs and cold drinks.

EggsIssues&

#FMWFEggs

Presenting Sponsor

Breakfast Host

Registration (includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $20 General Admission: $30Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Registration$20 in advance | $25 at the doorRegister at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Presenting Sponsor

“Very interesting presentation on the reasons the Bakken will continue to

affect North Dakota for many years. Great explanation on price trigger points.”

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Advocacy

Legislative Wrap-UpsNorth Dakota

With fluctuating oil prices and unpredictable production numbers, the state budget has been a hot topic this session. From infrastructure to flood protection to tax relief, the North Dakota legislature is passing significant legislation that will impact your business. Join us to hear from key legislators what you need to know about the 2015 session and beyond.

The event will feature Sen. Judy Lee, Sen. Tim Mathern, Rep. Thomas Beadle, Rep. Al Carlson and Rep. Ben Hanson. They will share their insights and opinions on the last session. Chris Berg, host of KVLY 6:30 Point of View, will serve as the moderator for this event.

Because we have a full public affairs calendar for May, the North Dakota Legislative Wrap-Up will replace the monthly Eggs & Issues forum.Jo

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Registration per Wrap-Up (includes lunch)Chamber Members: $25 General Admission: $40Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Legislative Wrap-Up Sponsors

MinnesotaAs a representative of two border cities, The Chamber

works to advocate across state lines. The Minnesota legislature is working to pass

key legislation that will impact your business. The Minnesota Legislative Wrap-Up will bring key lawmakers and special guests who will tell you what you need to know about what happened during the 2015 session.

The event will feature Sen. Kent Eken, Rep. Ben Lein and Rep. Paul Marquart. They will share their insights and opinions on the last session. Berg will also moderate the Minnesota Legislative Wrap-Up.

Lee Mathern

Carlson

Eken

Lein MarquartBeadle Hanson


Advocacy

Program Sponsors Congratulations!

2014-15 Leadership classOver the last nine months, the participants of the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class have

developed the skills necessary to continue down their paths of leadership, explored various aspects of our community and given back to the place they call home through nonprofit projects.

LEADERSHIPFargo Moorhead West Fargo

Stephen Astrup JD Legal Planning P.L.L.C.

Craig Ehrmantraut Cornerstone Bank

Jennifer GompfWinmar Sleep Wellness Center

Nathan Hendrickson TNT Kid's Fitness & Gymnastics

Keith Bergseth Bergseth Bros. Co., Inc.

Nicole Erickson AgCountry Farm Credit Services

Fredrick Greer Forum Communications Company

Joshua Huffman The Village Family Service Center

William BrandtMicrosoft

Jacquelyn ErovickOtter Tail Corporation

Tonya HansenMinnesota State University Moorhead

Chad JaroszewskiBell State Bank & Trust

Lindsay JohnsonDiscovery Benefits, Inc.

David Ebinger Moorhead Police Department

Debra Gemar Hospice of the Red River Valley

Chris Heaton West Acres Development, L.L.P.

Leissa Johnson Serco Global Services, LLC

Tracy Jordre JLG Architects

10 | May 2015

LFMWF

“My favorite part is the opportunity to share ideas with a diverse group of people. Everyone is committed to the community and making sure we’re doing our part to ensure a bright future. We want to continue what’s been done in the past so when we’re in positions of leadership we have that same forward-thinking, progressive vision for the community.” Josh Swanson

Tyler Klose Border States Electric

Katie Lowry TMI Hospitality

Alycia Peter Rasmussen College

Kenneth Story Homeward Animal Shelter

Kristin KrileDress for Success Red River Valley

Timothy LystadJohn Deere Electronic Solutions

Travis RiffeyWells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Kristen SullivanGOLDMARK Property Management

Sara LingwallEssentia Health

Jordan McCormickFamily Wellness, LLC

Valerie SchwantesEnventis

Shannon UeckerEssentia Health

Courtney Larson Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

Daniel Madler Beyond Shelter, Inc.

Diane Sandven Heartland Trust Company

Joshua Swanson Vogel Law Firm

Patrick Lorenson Ramsey National Bank

Matthew OachsWestern State Bank

Joanna Slominski Mortenson Construction


LFMWF

Giving BackLeadership class serves local nonprofits through program projects

Each year, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo (LFMWF) partners with local nonprofit organizations who have applied for assistance from the class. Seven nonprofits are selected, and class members learn about each nonprofit’s needs before selecting which organization they would like to give their time. Since last November, each of the LFMWF groups have devoted countless hours to their nonprofit and during this session, they shared their accomplishments with the class.

Executive Director Pat Traynor kicked off the day with a welcome at the Dakota Medical Foundation. Traynor shared with the class the integral role the Leadership class played in the creation of the DMF Lend A Hand program.

The class ended the day hearing from one of FMWF’s finest, Margie Bailly. She shared with us how to find leadership lessons in everyday life, whether it’s from your mother, your children or even the movies. They left knowing that just because the class is nearing its end, doesn’t mean their journey as a leader is ending, it’s just beginning.

Emergency Food PantryWill Brandt, MicrosoftDeb Gemar, Hospice of the Red River ValleyTracy Jordre, JLG Architects Tyler Klose, Border States ElectricVal Schwantes, EnventisShannon Uecker, Essentia Health

Project Vision: Improve and revitalize the waiting room of the Emergency Food Pantry to change the entire experience of coming to food distribution, creating a friendly, welcoming space where client dignity, comfort and overall experience are prioritized.

Faith Lutheran ChurchStephen Astrup, JD Legal Planning P.L.L.C.Nicole Erickson, AgCountry Farm Credit ServicesNate Hendrickson, TNT Kid’s FitnessCourtney Larson, Fargo-Moorhead Area FoundationSara Lingwall, Essentia HealthKen Story, Homeward Animal Shelter

Project Vision: Increase annual giving and service attendance through research and the creation of a budget strategy, development plan, communication plan and implementation schedule.

Farm in the Dell Craig Ehrmantraut, Cornerstone BankT.J. Hansen, Minnesota State University Moorhead Matt Oachs, Western State BankKristen Sullivan, GOLDMARK Property ManagementJosh Swanson, Vogel Law Firm

Project Vision: Increase “friend-raising” through the development of a marketing plan for the annual Friends of the Farm fundraising event.

FM Coalition for Homeless PersonsDave Ebinger, Moorhead Police DepartmentJen Gompf, Winmar Sleep Wellness CenterFred Greer, Forum Communications Company Dan Madler, Beyond Shelter, Inc.Alycia Peter, Rasmussen College

Project Vision: Gain an understanding of the business community’s knowledge and attitude of poverty and homelessness in the FMWF community through a survey, followed by the development of a marketing campaign to inform the community of the issues surrounding these topics and to increase involvement of the business community with the coalition.

12 | May 2015

LFMWF

Make-A-Wish Foundation of North DakotaKristine Krile, Dress for Success Red River Valley Pat Lorenson, Ramsey National BankKatie Lowry, TMI Hospitality Tim Lystad, John Deere Electronic SolutionsJordan McCormick, Family Wellness, LLCTravis Riffey, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

Project Vision: Gain professional perspective in talking with current volunteers, establish baseline data and develop an effective volunteer management structure to enhance engagement and provide a sense of community for the volunteers to improve retention.

The Red River ZooKeith Bergseth, Bergseth Bros. Co., Inc.Chris Heaton, West Acres Development, L.L.P.Joshua Huffman, The Village Family Service CenterLeissa Johnson, Serco Global ServicesDiane Sandven, Heartland Trust Company Joanna Slominski, Mortenson Construction

Project Vision: The zoo wanted to gain an understanding of the views residents have of the organization by surveying the FMWF community and, in turn, develop a marketing strategy to raise awareness and attendance.

YouthworksJackie Erovick, Otter Tail Corporation Chad Jaroszewski, Bell State Bank & TrustLindsay Johnson, Discovery Benefits, Inc.

Project Vision: Improve and expand the “We’ve Got You Covered” event which provides gently used clothes at no cost for students, by partnering with local businesses, securing storage for donations and assisting with marketing of the event.

Apply TodayApplications for the 2015-16 program now available

Become the leader you want to be and connect with your community in a way you never have before. Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo is a nine-month leadership program that runs August through April, followed by a commencement ceremony in May, which meets monthly. Participants will:§Develop long lasting relationships with other leaders. §Discover the inner workings of their community and

challenges facing the region. §Define their individual role and responsibility as a leader

within their organization and their community.Applications close May 28. Check out www.fmwfchamber.com

for more information. Questions? Contact Sam at 218.359.0529 or [email protected].

Program ScheduleAll sessions are Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. unless

otherwise noted. August 13 - OrientationFriday, September 11 - Ropes Course | 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.September 24 - The Chamber’s Annual Meeting

Noon to 1:30 p.m.October 8November 13December 10January 14February 11March 10April 14May 12 - Graduation


LFMWF

mailto:[email protected]

Leadership ExcellenceSavvy Strategies used by ChamberChoice Winners

Want answers to your burning questions about leadership? Our panelists will answer a variety of questions about effective leadership, identifying great employees, mentorship and more.

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

#FMWFTraining

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Shannon Bock CCRI, Inc.

Jason Boutwell Marco, Inc.

Chad Kost Spectrum Aeromed

Julie Laufenberg Integreon Managed Solutions

Sher Thomsen United Way of Cass-Clay

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14 | May 2015

Business Training

Business Training SponsorsSupporting Sponsors

Bell State Bank & Trust Eventide Senior Living

Communities GOLDMARK Property

Management

InterceptEFTNetwork Center, Inc.

Wanzek Construction, Inc.

Program Sponsors

“Aaron has the unique ability to make you think while making

you laugh at the same time.”Ivan Benson, Pepsi Bottling Group

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Lights, Camera, Action!Every year, we bring a national speaker

to be one of our 12 Business Training presenters. This year, Aaron Davis will bring his dynamic presentations to a special venue, Marcus Theatres - West Acres 14. It's a great chance to see the theatre from a whole new perspective. See you June 10!

Aaron Davis


More than one million people have experienced the presentations given by Aaron Davis. His presentations, which focus on the characteristics of championship teams, leadership and performers have been received with overwhelming success. As a member of the 1994 national championship Nebraska football team and working with numerous corporations and organizations, he understands firsthand what it takes to perform like a champion.

Perform Like a ChampionAttitude, mental toughness and the ability to change and

adapt quickly are just a few characteristics that all champions possess. As a member of what some considered one of the best teams ever assembled, Davis has a keen understanding of what it takes to achieve incredible results.

9:30 a.m. | Registration and Networking10 a.m. to noon | Session

Championship Teams Have No Bench Warmers

It’s impossible to obtain any sort of long-lasting success without the help of others. Championship teams don’t just preach teamwork; they cultivate and foster it every day so it permeates their entire organization. Davis shares the best practices of successful teams and characteristics of being an amazing teammate.

1:30 p.m. | Registration and Networking2 to 4 p.m. | Session

Business Training

Registration Per Session (includes popcorn and soda)Chamber Members: $45 in advance | $55 at the doorGeneral Admission: $65 in advance | $75 at the doorRegister at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Connecting with Passion

When it comes to the secrets of the most successful leaders, passion is always mentioned as a must-have quality. Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric and one of the most well known business leaders in the world, said that before hiring a person for a job he always

looked for the “Final P,” Passion - a heartfelt, deep and authentic excitement about work and life.

As women, we know how important it is for us to be passionate leaders in our family, work and communities. But the reality is, we don’t always make time in our busy schedules for passion.

In this fun and uplifting talk, Brazilian psychotherapist and founder of Women's Impact, Cris Linnares, reveals three powerful and practical tools to be a passionate leader in your personal and professional life.

As a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, mom, stepmom and wife, Linnares created this talk that

is inspired by her own experience of being a woman in dire need of reclaiming her own passion after moving from Brazil to Fargo and dealing with depression.

She hasn’t shared her three secrets to a passionate leadership with anyone... Until now!

Connecting with Presence

We have all come across people who possess a strong personal presence. They exude confidence, appear comfortable in their own skin and have the ability to make others feel at ease too.

The good news is personal presence can be learned, but it must be authentic.

Tonya Stende from Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND and Kristi Huber of Alerus Financial will help you understand how having an assertive personal presence can open doors for you in business as well as make you stand

out from the crowd. Presence gets you in front of people you would

otherwise never meet, creates incredible opportunities and ensures you leave a lasting impact wherever you go.

Presenting Sponsors Supporting SponsorsEide Bailly LLPEssentia HealthGate City Bank

Sanford HealthVogel Law Firm

RegistrationMembers Only $25 in advance | $35 at the door

Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

onnectomen. Business. Life.

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Thank you!Thank you to Danielle Paulus, ROERS, and Jodi

Heilman, Bell State Bank & Trust, for leading our March Women Connect session. They taught us how to pitch an idea and get to a yes. The afternoon was filled with great conversation and table activities where participants were able to determine if they were blockers, champions or decision makers. Real life scenarios were played out in front of the audience using each type of personality to determine the outcome.

16 | May 2015

PresencePassionate

Confident Enthusiastic

CaptivatingComfortable

Authentic


Senator HoevenVisits with Happy Hooligan supporters

In early April, The Chamber hosted Sen. John Hoeven for a general briefing on what’s been happening at the 119th Wing of the North Dakota Air National Guard at the Fargo Air Museum. Attendees included the Chamber’s board of directors, the Air National Guard Support Group, Col. Kent Olsen of the 119th Wing and many top officials of the Happy Hooligans.

As a member of the Military Construction Appropriations Subcommittee, Hoeven announced his efforts to secure a new permanent facility to house the intelligence-targeting group at the 119th Wing. “I’m working to get the $7.3 million facility through the appropriations process so that the building can be constructed and occupied by 2017,” said Hoeven.

“The Chamber is committed to supporting the members of the 119th Wing of the Air National Guard. The Happy Hooligans are once again on the leading edge of national security through the missions they conduct. It is imperative we support the men and women who serve in the Air National Guard in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo,” said Craig Whitney, Chamber President/CEO.

Military Matters

chamber military appreciation night

at the redhawks Thursday, July 30 | 7:02 p.m.

Cost is $10 and includes a ticket to the game and $3 in

RedHawks Bucks. The Chamber will have a reserved section.

sponsor a familyLast year, more than 650 members of our military community were guests of honor at the event. Three diff erent

sponsorship levels are available.

Visit www.fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100 to purchase tickets or sponsor a military family.

grand slam sponsor

Presenting Sponsor

YEA! is a nine-month program that teaches middle and high school students how to start and run their own businesses. Nominated students should have a strong work ethic and should demonstrate high levels of

effort on a consistent basis.

Please contact Sam at [email protected] or 218.359.0529 to nominate or for more information.

A limited number of scholarships are available.

Interviews begin May 11th | Application deadline May 29th

Sparks of Innovation!

Nominate Students TodayWe are looking for energetic students interested in

starting their OWN real company!

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Events

Wednesday, May 20 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.Granite City Food & Brewery

It’s time to take advantage of our beautiful weather! Join us on Granite City’s patio for networking, fun and a few drinks. Don’t forget to bring your business cards!

Free, no registration required.

Corporate CupThursday, May 21 | 3:45 to 9 p.m. Minnesota State University Moorhead

Looking to score points for the event before the day even starts? Each team that provides volunteer(s) will be awarded an automatic 100 points. Is your company not competing, but you still want to be involved? You can volunteer as well! Contact Sam from more information at 218.359.0529 or [email protected].

One to WatchAmanda Carlson, Agency Manager, State Farm Insurance - Jay Bartley Agency

“Amanda knows how to get the job done. As the chair of the YPN membership services committee, she continuously strives to make YPN members’ experience great, new and old alike. A current member of the United Way’s 35 under 35 program, it’s clear that Amanda is not only an asset to the YPN, but the community well.”

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Young Professionals Network

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Congratulations, Area Grads!

Passion. Quality. Innovation.

Find Your Passion.

Networking to Business: A Healthy Young ProfessionalWednesday, May 27 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics

Your health is an important aspect of your success as a young professional. Nate Hendrickson, TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics, will share tips and tricks on living a healthful life, physically and emotionally. There will be the opportunity to be active during this session but it is not required.

Registration Free for YPN Members | $20 Non-MemberRegister at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.


Paula Klein isn’t your typical general contractor. For starters, she’s a woman in a fairly male-dominated field. Second, she doesn’t hold a degree in construction management or another related field; she majored in mass communications. Third, she works exclusively in modular design.

Being one of a few women in the field doesn’t faze Klein. “It’s fun being a female in a male-dominated industry,” she said. “There are a lot more women architects, construction managers and engineers now, and it’s fun to be a part of that.” She explained that the increasing number of women is good for everyone. “We bring a different perspective. It’s all about different styles,” she asserted.

So how did Klein end up in the construction business instead of becoming a reporter? After college, Klein started a small business with her mom. “That dumped me into the design world, which led to commercial furniture, design and construction,” she explained. Klein thinks this may have been what she was always meant to do. As a child, she would draw floor plans for fun. It’s also one of the reasons she now encourages students to taste a variety of industries before choosing one.

Modular design, the third aspect that sets Klein apart from her peers, is where things start to get really exciting. DIRTT, the company Smartt Interior Construction partners with, stands for “Doing It Right

This Time.” The company created their whole concept of modular design with technology as the foundation. One of the biggest advantages of DIRTT construction is the ability to easily install, move and update technology right in the wall.

“One of my favorite examples comes from an architect I presented to,” said Klein. “They had this beautiful conference room with amazing TVs in the wall, and I couldn’t hook up to the display because my new computer wasn’t compatible with their technology. If they had DIRTT walls, they could easily access the wiring in the wall and make the necessary updates.”

DIRTT also utilizes technology in the design phase. ICE, the program used to design DIRTT projects, was inspired by 3D video games. “This generation of decision makers don’t want to see a 2D drawing,” Klein said. “They want to be able to see the space like it is.” Klein also talked about the latest technology advancement for DIRTT, using virtual reality to allow people to actually walk through a space that has just been drawn.

Klein sees modular design as the future of construction. With the ability to quickly change and update not only what your walls look like but also where they are, the possibilities are endless. ”It’s like future-proofing your building,” she said.

Designing for Today and TomorrowSmartt Interiors Construction

Saving the Environment

Here are a few ways traditional construction impacts the environment that DIRTT construction helps combat:

§ 15 to 25 percent of all landfills consist of construction, renovation and demolition waste.

§ For every square foot of brand new construction, one pound of drywall is disposed.

§ There is over 45 billion feet of abandoned, home-run cabling (with decomposing lead and PVC) in the ceilings of North American offices.

Sources: EPA, Cornell University, National Electrical Code all via DIRTT

Member Profile

20 | May 2015

Lush Lawns and Outdoor LivingPrepare your outdoor spaces for summer with help from these Chamber members

Member Spotlight

As temperatures heat up, it’s natural to begin thinking about summertime activities – dinner on the deck or patio, lawn games, backyard swimming, etc. Businesses may start thinking about employee barbecues or company picnics. The common denominator here is the space in which these activities will take place, so you’ll want to properly prepare your yard to maximize its ability to provide a lush playground for your family, employees or customers. The following businesses offer a variety of services and products to help get your yard ready for summer.

Greenscape Companies Inc.www.greenscapecompanies.com For more than two decades, Greenscape Companies has created beautiful outdoor environments for clients, both residential and commercial. The company specializes in retaining walls, patio design/construction, irrigation, sod production and landscaping projects of all sizes.

Hoglund Landscape Inc.www.stanhoglund.comHoglund Landscape offers custom design and construction in all phases of interior and exterior landscape projects, no matter how big or small.

Johnsons Pest Control & Lawn Service, Inc. www.johnsonspest.comJohnsons Pest Control & Lawn Service offers a variety of pest control and lawn services for the metro as well as the surrounding area. Pest control is offered for both residential and commercial atmospheres, and estimates are free.

Land Elementswww.landelements.com Land Elements is a landscaping architecture firm that focuses on conceptual design to create a unique sense of place. The company offers residential and commercial landscape architecture and design, property development, master planning and owners representation.

MGI Landscapes Outdoor Living www.mgilandscapes.com MGI Landscapes specializes in creative design for both residential and commercial customers through quality installation of outdoor living spaces: patios, plants, decorative rocks and mulches.

Opp Construction Patio World www.oppconstruction.com Opp Construction offers concrete paving, landscaping, erosion control, irrigation, sod, foundations and more. The company was founded in 1978 and has offices in Fargo and Grand Forks.

TruGreen www.trugreen.com TruGreen is one of the nation’s largest lawn service companies, with an office in Fargo. The company, which was established in 1960, offers fertilization, weed control and aeration services.

Tyler’s Tree Servicewww.tylerscut.comTyler’s Tree Service provides a variety of tree service needs such as removal, trimming, stump grinding, branch hauling and more. The company services residential, commercial and rural property owners in the metro as well as the surrounding area.

Valley Landscaping www.valleylandscaping.com Valley Landscaping is a full-service landscaping company specializing in the installation of patios, outdoor living kits and continuous curb edging as well as lawn care and snow removal services for commercial properties.


www.indigosignworks.com

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

News CompaniesH. Goerger & Associates Inc. dba AskHG is now a member of Network

Connect. Network Connect works to connect its 12,000 individual investors and 500 investment groups to business owners looking for funds.

Bergstrom Electric Inc. earned an Eagle Award in the Electrical: Commercial - Less than $2 million category of Associated Builders and Contractors’ Excellence in Construction Awards for their work on the Barnes County North School project. Bergstrom crews overcame a six-month winter-weather delay to complete the electrical work for a new 85,000-square-foot,

K-12 school in rural North Dakota. The Excellence in Construction awards program is the industry’s leading competition, developed to honor innovative and high-quality merit shop construction projects.

Capital Credit Union received a Diamond Award, which recognizes outstanding marketing and business development achievements in the credit union industry. Capital Credit Union won the community/public relations category for its entry, titled Loan Rescue. The goal of this campaign was to help borrowers save money by refinancing higher interest loans from other financial institutions to lower interest rates at Capital Credit Union. Choice Financial was also recognized as a 2014 Best Place to Work Runner-Up by the North Dakota Young Professionals (NDYP). NDYP recognizes businesses that provide high quality jobs and a work environment enticing to and in support of young professionals.

EAPC Architects Engineers opened a branch office in Sioux Falls. Leap Chear, architect and employee of EAPC for nine years, is the office manager for the downtown Sioux Falls office.

Forbes magazine rated Edward Jones the highest-ranking financial-services firm out of the list of 500 companies spanning 27 industries in the magazine’s “America’s Best Employers 2015” edition. The firm’s overall ranking was No. 24. Edward Jones also ranked No. 6 on Fortune magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For 2015” list in its 16th appearance on the prestigious list.

Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops launched a new website, www.happy-harrys.com. The new site features weekly specials, party planning, articles and more.

Thanks to two Minnesota Historical Society Cultural Heritage grants, the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County was able to capture a variety of newspapers, some dating back to 1881, on a total of 43 rolls of microfilm. Access to issues of Moorhead Daily News, Hawley Herald, Barnesville Record Review, Clay County Union, Dilworth News and several others are now easily available on microfilm at the Clay County Archives in the Hjemkomst Center.

Dakota MEP has changed it name to Impact Dakota. The rebranding comes as the company continues to grow its programs and services for the North Dakota manufacturing community, increases its outreach to educate the public about the manufacturing industry and expands their expertise to other industry sectors. Impact Dakota also launched a new website, www.impactdakota.com, to support the rebrand.

Polar Communications entered into a partnership with Insight Technologies, Inc., Dickey Rural and Dakota Central Telecommunications. The affiliation will bring new opportunities to Polar customers such as network monitoring and maintenance, security, vulnerability scanning, remote support, virtualization and more.

Marco, Inc. purchased Better Business Equipment (BBE), a copier and printer company located in Omaha. The purchase allows Marco to further expand its geographic footprint nationally and provide technical services in the state of Nebraska. This is the 12th acquisition the company has completed over the past two and a half years.

The “Making Student Success a Priority” program at North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) was named as the 2015 Grand Silver winner of the NASPA Excellence Awards. Each year, NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, recognizes the outstanding contributions of members who are transforming higher education through exceptional programs, innovative services and effective administration. The program was selected by a peer review process.

The first fully endowed chair at North Dakota State University was established to continue potato pathology research. Neil Gudmestad, who is the current potato pathologist at NDSU, announced his plans to step down by 2019 and wanted to ensure the program continued after he was gone. Working with potato growers and companies he has helped over the last 30 years, he helped secure the endowment.

Park Co. Realtors received a Five Star Award from the Cartus Broker Network. The award recognizes brokers who have met or exceeded their individual objectives for outgoing broker-to-broker referral closings during the calendar year.

ROERS received the United Way’s annual award for “Outstanding New Campaign.” ROERS implemented its first corporate giving campaign last year and raised just over $51,000 through employee giving, several company events and a largely successful chili feed to support the United Way of Cass-Clay.

Showplace Kitchens ND was named a President’s Club Award winner for exceptional cabinetry sales by Showplace Wood Products. The achievement places them among the top Showplace dealers nationwide. This is the eighth year they have been recognized with the award.

Fargo Sleep Inn & Suites was named a recipient of a prestigious 2015 Platinum Hospitality Award from one of the world’s largest hotel companies, Choice Hotels International, Inc. Platinum Award status represents a tremendous accomplishment for a hotel and its entire staff. Each year, only the very top hotels in each brand are eligible to receive this elite distinction.

Spherion Staffing local franchisee Jill Berg received an award for Franchise Sales Growth and Professional Placement. In order to be eligible, franchise owners are ranked in their revenue category for sales and profitability growth year-over year.

U.S. Bank was recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as a 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company®. The designation recognizes those organizations that have had a material impact on the way business is conducted by fostering a culture of ethics and transparency at every level of the company.

22 | May 2015

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News People

Churchill Evans Oswald Portillo

Richardson

Steve Churchill was hired as director of project management; John Evans was hired as an ag sales support specialist; Darren Oswald was hired as a facilities engineer; Julie Portillo was hired as marketing coordinator; and Tucker Richardson was hired as a business analyst at Appareo Systems. Churchill earned his master’s degree in electronics and computer-controlled systems. Evans earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from UND. Oswald earned his associate degree in heating, ventilation and air conditioning technology from MSCTC. Portillo earned a

bachelor’s degree from U of M, Crookston in hotel, restaurant and tourism management and marketing. Richardson earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and management from NDSU.

Frankenberger Paulson

Susie Frankenberger was promoted to cash management online support team lead, and Jeffrey Paulson was hired as a credit officer at Bell State Bank & Trust. Frankenberger completed various banking courses through American Institute of Banking, Stephens College and earned the designation of Accredited ACH Professional in 2012. Paulson earned his MBA from the University of Mary.

Blair

Gail Blair, VP/trust officer at Bell State Bank & Trust, was awarded the Certified Trust & Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation from the Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB), a subsidiary of the American Bankers Association. The CTFA designation is awarded to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of wealth management and trust.

Heinz Olson Schock

Brad Heinz was named director of building services, and Mark Olson and Les Schock were promoted to building services leads at Bethany Retirement Living. Heinz joined Bethany in July 1995 after working in maintenance at

MeritCare. Olson joined Bethany in May 2009 after six years of maintenance experience at Rosewood on Broadway. Schock was hired by Bethany in February 1998 with a background in farming.

Seventeen certified nursing assistants (CNAs) at Bethany Retirement Living have been accepted into the 2015 CNA Advancement Program. The program is designed to promote positive morale, foster increased longevity in their position with Bethany and reward excellence in job performance. Those selected this year include Brianne Anderson, Nicole Bayliss, Shari Bjorland, Vanessa Bryn, Amanda Fangsrud, Kim Friese, Gale Graphenteen, Rebecca Hamilton, Christine Huus, Melany Jenkins, Cody Johnson, Toni Larson, Chelsa Mitchell, Lois Ness, Carol Schroeder, Roxanne Young and Joleen Zwack.

Isakson

Peggy Isakson, a residential REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker First Realty, earned membership in the company’s International President’s Premier. This award represents the top one percent of all sales associates worldwide in the Coldwell Banker® system.

Byrum Hinschberger Larson Lebahn Michelle Byrum was promoted to AVP/retail manager for the Fargo market; Kathryn Hinschberger was hired as a cash management sales officer; Matt Larson was promoted to credit analyst; and Todd Lebahn was hired as a compliance specialist at Cornerstone Bank. Byrum joined Cornerstone in 2007 as a personal banker and was promoted to personal banking officer/customer service manager in 2011 and AVP in 2013. Hinschberger has more than 33 years of banking experience including positions in cash management and corporate bank training. Larson joined the bank in 2013 as a teller. Lebahn brings more than 14 years of banking experience.

Capener Clark Milne White Eide Bailly LLP employees Daniel Capener, Paul Clark, Dan Milne and Jeff White became NetSuite Certified ERP Consultants. NetSuite ERP certification recognizes expertise in the implementation and integration of NetSuite ERP solutions to meet business requirements.

Hanel Sornsin

Adam Hanel and Joseph Sornsin, Eide Bailly LLP, attained Cisco specialization for small and midsize business. Cisco SMB specialization provides Cisco partners with the knowledge and understanding of strategic technologies for small to midsize businesses, including cloud concepts, virtualization and data center switching.

Cordes Lindberg

Katie Cordes and Mark Lindberg, Eide Bailly LLP, achieved Sage ERP X3 certifications. The Sage ERP X3 implementation consultant certification provides Sage partners with the knowledge and skills to successfully prepare, install and configure an on-premise implementation of Sage ERP X3 and its integrated solutions on a client server.

24 | May 2015

Varma

Dr. Rochak Varma joined Essentia Health. Dr. Varma earned a medical degree from Maulana Azad Medical College in New Dehli, India. He completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in nephrology at the Metropolitan Hospital Center in New York City.

Rohne

Tammy Rhone, RN, was promoted to director of nursing at Eventide Senior Living Communities. Rhone received her associate degree in nursing from Northland Community College.

Mary Phillippi was named director of the Red River Regional Dispatch Center. Phillippi was previously the assistant director.

Thomasson

Shawn Thomasson, PLS, joined the small group of professional land surveyors nationwide to become a Certified Federal Surveyor. Thomasson serves as a professional land surveyor at Houston Engineering’s Fargo office and has been with the company since 2012.

Kornkven Wills Zarak

Thomas Kornkven was hired as a civil engineer; Nancy Wills, PE, was hired as a project manager; and Cody Zarak was hired as a civil technician at Houston Engineering, Inc. Kornkven attended UND where he earned his degree in civil engineering.

Wills attended college at Kansas State University where she earned her civil engineering degree. Zarak earned his land survey and civil engineering technology degree from NDSCS.

Ugelstad

Daniel Ugelstad was hired as a software design engineer at John Deere Electronic Solutions. Ugelstad received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering with a computer engineering emphasis from NDSU.

Bakken

Sara Bakken was hired as a marketing coordinator at Flom Property Group, a team within Keller Williams Roers’ Realty. Bakken earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing and retail merchandising from NDSU and has three years of experience in marketing.

Josh Peterson was hired as an e-commerce specialist at One Herd. Peterson is currently attending NDSU for public relations and advertising.

Abbott

John Abbott was named president of Varistar, the entity that provides operational and talent support for Otter Tail Corporation’s manufacturing portfolio. Abbott has more than 30 years of strong sales, marketing and operating experience and more than 15 years in president or group president roles in manufacturing-based companies, including acquisition and integration experience.

Miller

Andrew Miller was named manager of financial planning at Otter Tail Corporation. Miller has an extensive background as a finance and budget professional, having most recently served as CFO of Vector Windows.

Keller

Kim Keller, Park Co. Realtors, was granted the highest level of service achievement in the real estate industry, Quality Service Certified® Platinum. The award is in recognition of earning 100 percent client service satisfaction in 2014 as measured by Leading Research Corporation.

Westgard Larson

Jessica Westgard Larson, Dakotas Business Center of the Principal Financial Group, qualified for the company’s Premier Club. Producers who qualify for Premier Club represent the company’s very best producers nationwide. Westgard Larson also earned membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT). Achieving membership in MDRT is a distinguishing career milestone, attained only by those who have demonstrated exceptional professional knowledge, expertise and client service.

Hale

David Hale was hired as a commercial agent at Property Resources Group. Hale brings a strong work ethic formed during his professional hockey career.

Klein

Kaley Klein was promoted to front office manager at Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center. Klein graduated from NDSU with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management.

Bartell Roers

Dave Bartell was promoted to vice president of construction operations, and Rick Roers was promoted to vice president of field operations at ROERS.


Congratulations!The following companies and individuals received Addy Awards from the

North Dakota Advertising Federation: § Odney, best in show for “ND Tourism 2014 Print Campaign” done for

ND Tourism § Absolute Marketing Group, judge’s choice for “ExpressBagger” Website

done for ExpressBagger § Shawn Tennyson, Bell State Bank & Trust, silver medalist.

Doppler Johnson Opp

Stephanie Doppler was hired as a registered nurse, and Janna Johnson and Rod Opp were hired as licensed addiction counselors at ShareHouse, Inc. Doppler earned a bachelor of social work and gerontology from MSUM. Johnson earned a

bachelor’s in social work from MSUM. Opp earned a bachelor’s in social work from MSUM and an associate in arts from MSCTC.

Ken Kovarik, media consultant for SmartSearch, was recognized as the top performer for directory sales in 2014.

Rajput

Nisa Rajput was hired as an account representative at Spectrum Aeromed. Rajput graduated from Mayville State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in psychology and marketing specialization.

Toft

Kathleen Toft, senior professional recruiter at Spherion Staffing, was recognized for exceptional performance as a professional recruiter. Toft received the award for 2014. This is her second consecutive year as a winner in this category.

Hamre Koehler

Mark Hamre was hired as an account representative; Laura Ingalls was hired as office manager; and Ryan Koehler was hired as a graphic designer at Spotlight Media, Inc. Hamre graduated from Brown Institute and worked at KFGO for close to 15 years. Ingalls graduated from Concordia College with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science. Koehler attended MSCTC for graphic design.

Boll Gentz Graser Irsfeld

Meissner Moos Nelson Ring

Ruelle

David Boll was hired as a senior developer; Nicole Gentz was hired as a senior developer; Adele Graser was hired as a functional consultant; Tom Irsfeld was hired as a senior functional consultant; Eric Meissner was hired as a developer; LeAnn Moos was hired as human resources and recruiting manager; Mark Nelson was hired as a senior developer; Wendy Ring was hired as a senior functional consultant; and David Ruelle was hired as a principal consultant at Stoneridge Software. Boll previously spent seven years at Microsoft as both a tester and a development

engineer. Gentz has been a software developer for more than 14 years working on a variety of systems. Graser was previously a software consultant focused on supply chain. Irsfeld is a software consultant with specialization in finance. Meissner has more than eight years of experience in development and business intelligence. Moos brings 15 years of experience in the financial and communications industry. Nelson spent 18 years as a developer and the last 11 years at Microsoft. Ring spent 16 years at Microsoft and has a bachelor’s degree in finance from MSUM. Ruelle previously served as a director of finance and IT and as a software consultant focusing on the areas of finance, trade and logistics.

Enderle

Nathan Enderle was promoted to web acquisition and marketing manager at Swanson Health Products. Enderle has been with Swanson since 2013, most recently serving as lead ecommerce business analyst.

Heinze

Kyle Heinze was hired as a mobile movement fitness instructor at TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics. Heinze has a degree in physical and heath education from MSUM.

Peterson

Martin Peterson was promoted to business loan officer at Town & Country Credit Union. Peterson graduated from NDSU with a degree in agricultural economics.

26 | May 2015

Hanley Schoenherr

Jennifer Hanley was promoted from senior engineer to technical manager for the civil transportation team, and Adam Schoenherr was promoted from senior engineer to technical manager for the civil transportation team at Ulteig. Hanley, who joined Ulteig in 2008, brings more than 15 years of engineering experience to the team. Schoenherr earned a bachelor’s in civil engineering from SDSU and has been with Ultieg since 2007.

Jeff Richmond, general manager at Valley Imports, Inc., attended the National Auto Dealers Association General Dealership Management Academy. The year-long program included six intensive, week-long classroom sessions as well as self-study and web based homework. All aspects of dealership operations were taught, including: financial management, fixed operations, variable operations and business leadership.

Helmers

Dr. Travis Helmers joined Venture Chiropractic. Dr. Helmers received his doctorate of chiropractic from Northwestern Health Sciences University College of Chiropractic.

Robinson

Andy Robinson was hired as eBusiness manager at Wallwork, Inc. Robinson attended St. Cloud Technical College and St. Cloud State University with studies in information technology and finance.

Erlandson B. Larson J. Larson

Kayley Erlandson was hired as a WordPress and digital marketing specialist; Brad Larson was hired as manager of information systems; and Jeanine Larson was hired as digital marketing manager at Western Products, Inc. Erlandson

completed her master’s degree in mass communication at NDSU and also holds a bachelor’s degree in professional media communication from Valley City State University. B. Larson earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Concordia College. J. Larson earned bachelor’s degrees in broadcast journalism and communication arts and sciences from Penn State University.

Bannach

Mike Bannach was named market president at Western State Bank. Bannach has more than 20 years of banking experience, most recently serving as senior vice president/business banking manager at Bremer Bank, N.A.

Peter Johnson, vice president/mortgage loan officer at Western State Bank, was recently selected as one of Minnesota Housing’s Top Producing Loan Officers by Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. The Top Producing Loan Officer Program is designed to recognize individual loan officer production for first mortgage loan programs.

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FargoNewsletterTheBridge.indd 1 3/25/15 1:57 PMwww.fmwfchamber.com | 27

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!

Looking to do Business?Check out our directory at www.fmwfchamber.com to

search our full list of 2,100 member businesses. Has your business moved or changed names? Send the

information to [email protected].

New Members

APM, LLLP www.APM4ME.COMApartmentsAPM provides quality, well-built and well-managed college apartments in north Fargo and downtown.

Bell State Bank - Mortgage Divisionwww.bellbanks.com/mortgageMortgages Bell State Bank & Trust knows how to get you the best rate on your loan. With 130 plus years of mortgage experience, their home loan experts will help you take advantage of record-low interest rates.

Bell Wealth Management www.bellbanks.com/trust investmentFinancial Consultants Bell Wealth Management provides a wide array of products and services providing a lifetime of investment solutions to their clients; including professional investment management services for institutional assets, including pension funds, endowments, insurance reserve funds and special purpose corporate funds; individual retirement accounts (IRAs); trust and estate planning services to individuals; retirement planning and investments; and qualified and non-qualified employee benefit programs including 401(k)s to employers across the U.S. and Canada.

Big Valley Properties LLC701.306.9101 Real Estate - InvestmentBig Valley Properties LLC invests in residential and multi-family properties in and around the Fargo Moorhead area.

Bock’s Office Transformational Consultingwww.bocksoffice.comConsultantsBock’s Office provides keynote speeches, executive coaching, facilitation and corporate learning events that engage and challenge through a three-step process of awareness, artful action and transformation. Bock’s Office specializes in the areas of effective communication, leadership development and personal accountability.

Elevate Human Potentialwww.elevatehumanpotential.comFitness CentersElevate Human Potential provides performance crossfit recovery. They strive to empower people to move their bodies in a way that is fulfilling and optimal for them.

Exposure Creative Group www.fmexposure.comMarketingExposure Creative Group is an all-inclusive production, marketing and design agency that provides services to help enhance the way businesses and people promote their company, product or story through the use of creative visual media marketing, interactive design and consulting.

Face It TOGETHER Fargo Moorheadwww.wefaceittogether.orgHealthcare ServicesFace It TOGETHER is working to solve addiction in Fargo Moorhead. They are dedicated to saving lives and reducing the tremendous social, human and economic costs of this chronic disease.

Institute of Diagnostic Imaging www.idifargo.comHealthcare ServicesInstitute of Diagnostic Imaging provides high-quality outpatient diagnostic imaging services to patients and physicians, utilizing the most advanced technologies available. Their goal is to efficiently care for their patients, treating each patient with kindness and compassion.

Lowry Engineeringwww.lowryeng.comEngineeringLowry Engineering provides exceptional surveying, planning and civil engineering services to private and public clients in North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota.

McNeal and Friendswww.mcnealfriends.comDesign - Interior & ResidentialMcNeal and Friends is a lifestyle boutique and interior design studio in the heart of downtown Fargo. Their signature style begins with a soft neutral palette and grows with layers of beautiful vibrant accessories. Their passion is in the details.

MSPIREwww.mspire.comMarketingMSPIRE is an expert in brand development, customer experience analysis, marketing, advertising, writing and editing, graphic design, social media management, website services, public relations, media relations and event planning.

Novo Nordiskwww.novonordisk us.comHealthcare ServicesNovo Nordisk is a global healthcare company with more than 90 years of innovation and leadership in diabetes cases.

Pine View First Addition218.790.2239Senior HousingPine View First Addition is a nonprofit senior homeowner association for 55 or older common interest community.

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Tobacco PreventionWhat to know about your communityArticle submitted by Holly Scott, Community Health Educator at Fargo Cass Public Health

Did you know that the North Dakota smoke-free law requires that all entrances into smoke-free public places and workplaces have a sign stating they are smoke-free? If you didn’t know, don’t worry!

The tobacco prevention program at Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) would like to remind Cass County businesses that in order to meet this requirement, a variety of free signs are available through their office.

In addition to working with the state smoke-free law, tobacco prevention coordinators are also available to assist smokers who wish to kick their nicotine addiction. Those ready to quit are referred to the NDQuits program first. Ex-smokers often say that quitting smoking is one of the biggest achievements in their lives. NDQuits has helped thousands of smokers become proud quitters and has experienced a 31 percent success rate throughout North Dakota.

When individualized treatment is more appropriate, the team at FCPH will set up a plan for each individual. With these types of programs, available on an individualized basis, the problem of tobacco use can be addressed at the local level.

Tobacco prevention coordinators also work to provide community education on smoke-free multi-unit housing and electronic cigarettes. The smoke-free multi-unit housing initiative provides resources to property managers and owners, along with renters, to educate them on the advantages of becoming smoke-free. Resources for property managers and landlords include sample lease language and tips on how to communicate a policy change to

tenants. Tenant resources include talking points on the benefits of smoke-free apartments.

There are many concerns surrounding electronic cigarettes and their lack of regulations at the federal, state and local levels. Some of these devices can contain the highly addictive drug nicotine. The lack of federal regulation means an absence of laws regarding age restrictions for purchasing and using e-cigs, widespread lack of safety regulations of packaging including child-proof caps and no regulations for advertising and marketing these products to minors. The public, and especially parents, need to be informed about electronic cigarettes.

Tobacco prevention coordinators are available to speak on any of the above topics or provide additional resources and information.

Businesses are welcome to request signs by calling Holly Scott at 701.241.8576.

Contributions

E N V I R O N M E N TSmokeFree!

Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes,is prohibited by law indoors& within 20 feet of entrances.

N.D.C.C. 23-12-9 to 23-12-11

This two-day program will be held on June 10 and 11 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Eide Bailly LLP in Fargo.

Whether you are persuading colleagues, selling a client or energizing a team, the power of your presentation makes the difference between success and failure. The experience in this presentation skills-training seminar is as close as you can get to having a personal,

public speaking coach. In this two-day program you will walk away with these valuable tools:

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Practicing MindfulnessIncrease efficiency and decrease stress by being in the momentArticle was written by Denis Hellekson for The Village Business Institute’s “Good People, Good Business” blog.

Remember the days when summer seemed to stretch ahead of you like a blank canvas waiting to be filled with adventures and magical moments? Childhood summers were a time to slow down, relax and enjoy being in the moment.

Then we grew up.Now most people’s summers are just as busy as the rest of their

lives. Daily planners are overflowing with projects and activities vying for our attention like an endless treadmill without an “off” switch.

Is this how you want your life to be? If not, there is a simple approach that can help you bring balance back and reclaim some of the joy of childhood. Children are experts at being in the moment. Whether it’s splashing through a summer shower or watching fireflies flashing their mysterious signals, they aren’t thinking of what is ahead but reveling in what is here now. They are masters of mindfulness.

As adults, we can recapture that feeling and it can begin with only a minute a day. One of the most quoted books on mindfulness is The Miracle of Mindfulness, by Thich Nhat Hanh. This noted Zen Master’s book is just over 100 pages (paperback version) yet packed with wisdom on how to savor the special moments in your life and let them fill you up with happiness. His approach is the opposite to the frenzied multitasking that is prevalent in today’s workplace where responding to endless emails, phone calls and deadlines often finds people trying to do multiple things simultaneously.

Recent research has shown that focused attention can actually increase efficiency and decrease stress. Mindfulness is the opposite of multitasking. Mindfulness is deeply focusing on one person or task at a time. Quieting our mind and focusing on the present moment can help us to find a sense of balance. As Joel and Michelle Levey state in their book, Living a Balanced Life, “Developing mindfulness gives you an internal guidance system that helps you know when you’re heading off the course of balance, so you can self-correct and

find your way back on track. It’s like having an inner compass or radar, advising you of your present reality and the direction you’re heading in, then lighting your way home.”

Practicing mindfulness for just a few minutes a day can make a big difference, especially if you do it at the beginning of the day. Focus on your breathing; with your inward breath, say “return” and with your outward breath say “home” repeat this for two to three minutes. This short meditation is both calming and centering, and can help you face the day feeling more centered; helping you to respond to the day rather than react to it. As Amit Ray stated in his book Om, Chanting and Meditation, “If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.”

When you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stressed or lost in thoughts of the past or future, take a few moments to pull your attention back to your current surroundings and just be present. The website Wisdom Commons describes it this way, “Mindfulness lets us absorb the richness of the moment instead of going through life with half of our attention on the past or future or our own mental chatter. The self-knowledge that comes from mindfulness lets us be more intentional in choosing priorities and actions that fit our life mission.”

Every day and every moment is a chance to practice mindfulness. When sending an email, focus your attention on the person receiving it and what they are needing to hear. When listening to a colleague or a friend, give them your full attention. Listen to the words and the feelings between the words and see what a difference it makes. Turn your awareness to yourself as well, what are you feeling? What are you experiencing?

Making time for mindfulness is practicing being in the moment, and the moment is where the magic is. If you don’t believe me, just ask a kid on summer vacation.

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Electronic format No cost to participate Discounted purchase price for participants Over 200 positions surveyed

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32 | May 2015

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

Community CalendarMay 2015

Special OpsObstacle Course

Vertical Rush

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

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

OVens, Refrigerator & Three Inflatable Games.

Call Dave Lerud or Corey Heiser at 373-0104.

1217611_13323

3.625x4.75

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Growing your business is easier when you have a dedicated teamAt Wells Fargo, we take time to get to know Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo businessesBy getting to know you and your business, our experienced business bankers can offer financing options tailored to meet your financial needs.Visit us at a location near you.

wellsfargo.com

All credit decisions subject to credit approval.© 2014 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (1217611_13323)

1217611_13323 3.625x4.75 4c.indd 1 10/1/14 3:12 PMwww.fmwfchamber.com | 33

5 18

14 31

2 16

16

7 20Stroke Awareness LuncheonEssentia Health

Women's Health Conference Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

DAYTA University on Social MediaDAYTA Marketing

Hawley Rodeo FestCity of Hawley

2015 Spring Gala: CarnavalPlains Art Museum

Third Annual Hometown Tourist CampaignFargo-Moorhead Convention and Visitors Bureau

Salute to Women Veterans Cragun's Resort and Conference Center

Annual MeetingHistorical and Cultural Society of Clay County

CULTIVATE.you Arthur Ventures, LLC

mailto:[email protected]

Homeward Animal Shelter provides compassionate care and treatment for all companion animals needing protection; advocates the prevention of cruelty to and the relief of suffering among animals; and provides education and encourages stray-pet adoptions. The shelter has taken 51 percent of all adoptable cats and dogs from local pounds. A total of 810 animals were rescued in the Fargo Moorhead area in 2014.

Buyer at Large has changed their name to Pastiche and has moved to 303 Broadway North, Fargo next to Toasted Frog. Pastiche is a boutique filled with a curated mix of fun, unique gifts and fashionable home decor, selected just for you. If you’re going to spend the money, why not get something unique? Pastiche has seasoned buyers who are passionate about helping you find a truly meaningful gift or that perfect home décor piece. They search the globe to bring you this simplified, sure-fire selection and make your shopping easier and faster.

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RBZ BARBERSHOPGrand opening on March 13 109 Seventh Street South, Moorheadwww.rbzbarbershop.com

WIRED UP!Relocation celebration on March 19808 36th Street South, Moorheadwww.iamwiredup.com

BOTTLE BARNCAMBRIA SUITESOne year anniversary on March 5 825 East Beaton Drive, West Fargowww.kajhospitality.com

Grand opening on March 12 3171 Bluestem Drive, West Fargowww.bottlebarnliquors.com

CelebrationsRibbon 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 www.fmwfchamber.com or call Gail at 218.233.1100.

Untitled-12 1 3/6/15 12:55 PM


May 2015 Chamber Events

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

www.fmwfchamber.com

Community Builders

Bridgethe

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Minnesota Legislative Wrap-UpNoonHjemkomst Center

Women Connect: Connecting with Presence3:30 p.m.Avalon Events Center West

YPN Networking to Business: A Healthy Young Professional11:30 a.m.TNT Kid's Fitness & Gymnastics

Corporate Cup3:45 p.m.Minnesota State University Moorhead

ChamberChoice Awards LuncheonNoonRamada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

North Dakota Legislative Wrap-UpNoonHilton Garden Inn Fargo

Leadership Excellence11:30 a.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

YPN Off the Clock5:15 p.m.Granite City Food & Brewery

Kegs & Issues 4 p.m.D-S Beverages, Inc.

Documents

The Bridge May 2015