the bridge march 2015
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Check out what's happening with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber.TRANSCRIPT
BridgetheMarch 2015 | Vol 18 | No. 7March 2015 | Vol 18 | No. 7
94 March and April Eggs & Issues Set
Enjoy Super Time at Chamber Challenge 14 Women Connect: Go
from No to Yes When Pitching Ideas
THREE TIMES AS CHARMINGJAMES CUNNINGHAM BACK TO EMCEE
CHAMBERCHOICE AWARDS
March 2015 Bridge Cover.indd 1 2/17/15 1:47 PM
Message to MembersAt our State of the Cities event in January, we polled our audience members on the number one issue affecting the FMWF region that city leaders should address, and 40 percent responded with workforce while 36 percent responded with comprehensive flood protection. While we recognize the importance of workforce development, I want to make it perfectly clear that the diversion is just as significant.
We hear about workforce challenges nearly every day, so we were not surprised by the result of the poll, to which 200 audience members responded. The issue has been newsworthy for several years now, and our collaboration with other organizations to conduct a regional workforce development study is a testament to its prominence in our thriving metro.
What may not be as visible to people is what’s happening with the diversion; you may see construction on flood projects downtown, and while those are part of the federal diversion project, the bulk of the diversion has yet to begin. Once ground is broken on the diversion channel, it will likely take 8-10 years to build.
Ground-breaking will begin as soon as this fall. In the meantime, The Chamber’s Business Leaders for Permanent Flood Protection Task Force, which was organized more than two years ago with the explicit purpose of lobbying the legislature for support, is back at work. The group has been meeting and has sent representatives to Bismarck already to gather continued support for the diversion project.
The diversion is one of two priorities for The Chamber this year. Just like workforce development, it is a regional issue that affects businesses in Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo. While workforce may have edged out comprehensive flood protection in our State of the Cities poll by a few percentage points, it doesn’t diminish the importance of the diversion even a little.
Thank you for your membership,
Craig Whitney President/CEO The Chamber
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 Engineerig, 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 Sales ManagerGail Petersen Membership Relations CoordinatorElly Peterson Government Affairs and Advocacy CoordinatorTracy Powell Director of Events & ProgramsBobbi Jo Rehder Events CoordinatorKaylyn Stroh Publications & Program Marketing CoordinatorDanielle Teigen Communications & Marketing ManagerMickayla 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.
Vision The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business community
and members.
2 | March 2015
In this Issue
812
2715
36
Military AffairsCommittee Chair Profile: Brian Shawn
Business TrainingSave yourself from becoming a victim of fraud.
Member ProfileBioLife saves lives through plasma donation.
Women ConnectLearn how to develop more productive relationships with women.
Chamber Events
#ChamberChoice15
May 19, 2015Noon to 1:30 p.m.
Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center
James Cunningham, Master of CeremoniesJoin us for an afternoon with the stars!
The ChamberChoice Awards, presented by Dawson Insurance and Flint Communications, Inc., celebrates the success of local businesses and organizations and honors its contributions to our community’s economic growth.
James Cunningham, an award-winning comedian and lecturer, and most recently, bestselling author, will serve as our master of ceremonies. Cunningham is hysterically quick-witted and will have you on the edge of your seat….and not just to hear who has won a ChamberChoice Award.
In addition to serving as emcee for the ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon for three years in a row, his credits include two Gala performances at the world-famous Just for Laughs international comedy festival, two one-hour Comedy Now stand-up specials for CTV and The Comedy Network, two appearances on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, five consecutive years as a writer and actor on the award-winning Canadian television series Comedy Inc.
He can currently be seen hosting Eat St. on The Food Network in Canada, Cooking Channel in the United States and in dozens of countries around the world.
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.
Presented By
luncheonChamberChoice2015
March Bridge Spread.indd 1 2/19/15 1:16 PM
#FMWFGolf#FMWFGolf
Calling all Superheros and Villians! Each year our Facebook followers get to select the theme for the annual golf tournament and this year’s winning theme was Superheros and Villians. Teams and sponsors are invited to participate in the theme but it is not required.
Registration is now open, so shake off the winter blues and get registered. Golfers may register as a foursome or as individuals. Spots are filling quickly so make sure to include this super-fun Chamber Challenge Golf Outing in your summer calendar!
Individual RatesDon’t have a team of four? Register an individual and we can pair
you up with other players. It’s a great way to build relationships and your network.
On or before June 5Chamber member: $115General admission: $135
After June 5Chamber member: $140General admission: $160
Team RatesGet your clients, co-workers and friends together and network the
afternoon away on the golf course with a four-person team.
On or before June 5Chamber members: $440General admission: $520
After June 5Chamber members: $540General admission: $620
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100 for more information.
Wednesday, July 15 | Noon
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4 | March 2015
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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 officeor by calling 218.233.1100. Participants will be assigned a numbered golf ball that corresponds to your purchase. You do not need to golf or be present to win. You can request information about how to purchase tickets online at www.fmwfchamber.com.
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 and become involved in their communities and pursue their dreams by harnessing their creativity and energy.
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CORPORATE CUP
Save the Date!Thursday, May 21, 3:45 to 9 p.m.
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Learn more and join the conversation at:www.facebook.com/fmwf.corpcup
#FMWFCorpCupwww.fmwfchamber.com/corporate_cup
We need your help!Not competing but still want to be part of the fun? Volunteer to get in on the Corporate Cup action!
Contact Sam at [email protected] or 218.233.1000
Brian Heger 702 CommunicationsNatalie Silva Aevenia, Inc.Dan Doeden Alerus FinancialCindy Cole-Softing Altel - Alternative Telecom, Inc.Scot Hagen American Family Insurance - Brent Berg Agency, Inc.Brian Shawn American Red Cross - Red River Valley ChapterChar King AmericInn South 45th StreetNatalie O’Brien Animal Health ClinicJeannie Camarillo Anne Carlsen CenterJim Deutsch Artco Promotional Products, Inc.Lynn Hanson Artco Promotional Products, Inc.Shelly Larson Avenue RightBrian Kingsley Baymont Inn & SuitesBilly Nustad Bell State Bank & TrustSheila Bentz Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North DakotaJanelle Jamison BioLife Plasma ServicesKayla Beehler BioLife Plasma ServicesLorelle Olson Bremer Bank, N.A.John Mason Cambria SuitesBrandon Geffre Coaches Choice Corporate and Athletic ApparelDeb Hersrud Concordia CollegeMark Hensrud Concordia CollegeJodi Buchholz DFC Consultants, Ltd.Ben Woessner Eide Bailly LLPMelinda Snider EnventisCora Turner Fargo Sleep Inn & SuitesKaren Harrington Fargo Sleep Inn & SuitesTrevor Hopkins Fargo Sleep Inn & SuitesPatty Mastel Fargo-Moorhead Area FoundationTom Cook Farmers Insurance Group - District OfficeBryan McClean Farmers Insurance Group - McClean FamilyKylie Seaberg Forum CommunicationsDawnette Rea Forum Communications PrintingKylie Seaberg Forum Communications PrintingJamie Odegaard FRSecure LLCEmmett Worth Gate City BankShane Brewer Gate City Bank - Corporate OfficeDrew Rheault Granites UnlimitedJenne Quarve Granites UnlimitedCasey Cole Hilton Garden Inn FargoKarl Benson Hilton Garden Inn FargoKristine Mutegi Hilton Garden Inn FargoMike Prekel Holiday Inn FargoMary Krage Indigo SignworksJolynn Kaldor InterOfficeJay Schmallen Associate
Brenda Cornell Job Service North DakotaLori Hager JPII Catholic Schools NetworkKyle Reedstrom KLJNeal Beitelspacher Lexstar Real Estate ServicesHeather McEwen Mengedoth DentalMary Mengedoth-Brennan Mengedoth DentalTate Stephens Midcontinent CommunicationsDonn Groth Midwest Communications, Inc. dba
Midwest Radio Fargo MoorheadDanny Fatland Minnesota State University MoorheadTaya Spelhaug NDSCS - FargoJulie Halverson Newman Outdoor AdvertisingJackie Williams Northern Plains Botanical Garden SocietyPatti Cosgriff Northwestern Bank, N.A.Neil Van Dam Northwestern MutualAusten Schauer Park Christian SchoolRandy Clark Park Co. Realtors at West AcresNicole Birnbaum Radio FM MediaJill Carlson Rainbow International Restoration and Cleaning of FargoBob Sulkosky Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference CenterCarol Johnson Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference CenterAmber Nefzger RE/MAX Legacy Realty Kevin Struxness RealTruck.comDerek Drege Red River FinancialLaura Ludwig Residence Inn by MarriottRob Gramer RJ Energy Solutions LLCErica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald House Charities
of the Red River ValleyJill Christopher Ronald McDonald House Charities
of the Red River ValleyMike Wickham Starion FinancialRobby Lundbom Starion FinancialKevin Spaulding Summit Group SoftwareLarry Olson Talent ProductionsDena Bennett Thrivent FinancialSteve Asche Thrivent Financial - Red River Financial AssociatesLisa Koehmstedt Total ImagingKathey Llewellyn TrinSpin IncLindsey Svir Valley Mortgage, Inc.Tammy Askew VISIONBankTom Thompson Vocational Training CenterKriss Burns VOLT Workforce SolutionsJoe Larson Waddell & Reed Financial ServicesJan Monda Warner and Company InsuranceTravis Riffey Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.Jill Mattson Western State Bank
Ambassadors, Volunteers and Members Make For Successful Operation Thank You
Because of the generosity of our Chamber Ambassadors and volunteers from our member businesses, The Chamber had another successful “Operation Thank You.” More than 2,125 membership packets were assembled in under an hour, and our volunteers delivered those packets to our members. The Chamber extends a special thank you to Jenne Quarve from Granites Unlimited for delivering 121 packets!
fmwfchamber.com | 7
Military MattersJoin Honor Star Program, Support
Local Military CommunityThree years ago, The Chamber created what is known as the Honor Star program as a way for businesses and
individuals to say thank you to the men, women and families who have answered the call to serve our nation. Through an annual $100 investment, members contribute to funds that help foster a community of support for our local military and their families. These funds have been used to provide uniforms for the Junior ROTC program, and the program recently signed on
to support WDAY with their organization of the Honor Flights focusing on local Korean and Vietnam War veterans. The Honor Star program is also involved with The Chamber’s Annual Military Appreciation Day with the Fargo-
Moorhead RedHawks as a way to say thank-you to our service members and their families.
If you are interested in becoming an Honor Star member, please contact Elly Peterson at [email protected] or 218.359.0512.
fargo
moorh
ead west fargo ch
amber
honor star
Honoring Our Service Members
Military Affairs Committee Profile: Brian Shawn
Brian Shawn, regional communications officer for American Red Cross - Red River Valley Chapter, has served as the chair for the Military Affairs committee since September 2014, after serving as vice chairperson in 2013.
How long have you been involved with the Military Affairs committee? I have been
involved with the Military Affairs committee for about four years. I was excited that The Chamber brought the committee back, and it has been a great group to be a part of.
What have you enjoyed most about working with the Military Affairs committee? I have enjoyed getting to know all the people that serve and lead our military branches around the area. We have a lot of committed and dedicated service men and women who take a great deal of pride in the work they do both in our communities and throughout the entire world. It’s great to be on a committee that helps supports our military because they are true heroes in the work they do and play a critical role in keeping us safe and supporting local businesses.
What is one thing you would like other people to know about the Military Affairs committee? We are a group that really strives to advocate and support our service members and their families. We are always looking for new people throughout the business community to join us, get involved and learn more about what is going on with our local military branches and how we can best support them in Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo and Dilworth. Thanks to all of our Honor Star members that help support us as well!
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8 | March 2015
Advocacy in Action
Breakfast Host
EggsIssues&
Cities For PeopleTuesday, March 3 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.
Radisson Hotel Fargo, 201 Fifth Street South
Attend the March Eggs & Issues to learn what the future of city planning looks like, featuring an update of what’s happening with permanent flood protection, riverfront concepts and the new city hall and parking options from City of Fargo Commissioner Mike Williams. Next up will be Mike Zimney, an urban planner with Ulteig, who will discuss future city development trends as well as highlight how those trends have changed over time. The event will wrap up with a panel discussion with area land developers Steve Iverson and Steve Stoner on how these trends and projects will affect the metro’s landscape in the future. Downtown Community Partnership President/CEO Mike Hahn will moderate the discussion.
Registration (includes breakfast)Chamber Members: $20General Admission: $30
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.
#FMWFEggs
Eggs & Issues Featuring Niles HushkaTuesday, April 7 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.
Radisson Hotel Fargo, 201 Fifth Street South
Join Niles Hushka, CEO of KLJ Solutions, the parent organization for KLJ, as he discusses energy development in the state and across the Bakken, as well as the impact changing oil prices brings to our region.
Hushka is recognized throughout the region for his innovative philosophies and creative solutions in the engineering industry and business community. His dedication to high ethical standards, quality work and entrepreneurial spirit has propelled him to lead KLJ, through record growth and revenue.
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701.235.1121 • 888.526.112116 South 16th Street • Fargo, NDwww.knightprinting.com
fmwfchamber.com | 9
Advocacy in ActionNearly 100 Members Attend Chamber Day at the Capitol
Two buses filled with engaged Chamber members traveled to Bismarck last month to see lawmakers in action and network with elected officials. The full day of activities included committee hearings, floor sessions, updates from legislative leaders and the governor and a reception with legislators. More than 30 legislators found time in their busy schedules to spend the evening talking with Chamber members and hearing what issues are most important to Fargo business professionals.
During the floor sessions, Chamber members could sit with legislators or view the action from the gallery as lawmakers debated and discussed amendments to bills and the bills themselves.
“The Chamber leadership program continues to provide experiences that enhance our personal and professional lives,” said Diane Sandven, Heartland Trust Company. “Having the opportunity to sit with a representative on the floor while the House of Representatives held session was definitely one of these experiences. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to observe the political process from this unique perspective.”
Gov. Jack Dalrymple briefed the group in the afternoon, explaining that the state has continued interest in funding levy construction projects in the Fargo area to protect the city from future flooding. He also explained that recent dismal forecasts about falling oil prices may change once new analytics are available later this month. “Yes, we are going to recover,” Dalrymple asserted. “It’s just a question of how fast.”
Those thoughts were echoed by other legislators who addressed the Chamber group such as House Minority Leader Kenton Onstad (D) and House Majority Leader Al Carlson (R). “The sky is not falling but we need to be good managers of the state’s money,” Carlson said.
While flood protection is a major issue for the metro, another concern is the availability of water in dry times. Sen. Rick Sorvaag spoke about the need for a water supply project that will ensure the metro has constant access to clean, safe water. “We can fight a flood but we can’t fight a drought,” Sorvaag said.
Sen. Rich Wardner said that while the priority may be on the western part of the state right now, legislators have not overlooked the eastern half. “The state of North Dakota can’t afford to have Fargo flood,” he said. “Fargo is too big of an economic generator for our state.”
Other individuals who addressed the group included Senator Minority Leader Mac Schneider (D), Sen. Tim Flakoll and Laney Herauf, government and regulatory affairs specialist for the Greater North Dakota Chamber. Herauf discussed six major bills the state chamber is tracking throughout this legislative session.
The Chamber extends a special thank you to the CVB for its warm welcome and complimentary coffee and snacks.
Succulent Steaks and Seafood | Basies Loyalty Program Two Private Dining Rooms
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10 | March 2015
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Applications for 2015-16 LFMWF Program Open in April Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo is a great way to grow as an individual and a member of the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo business community. This nine-month leadership program runs September through May and meets once per month at various locations throughout the community.
Participants will:§Develop lasting relationships with other leaders.§Discover the inner workings of their community.§Define their individual role and responsibility as a leader within
their organization and their community.
Applications open on April 1.
For more information, please contact Sam at [email protected] or 218.359.0529.
fmwfchamber.com | 11
Business Training
Registration for Business Training sessions (includes lunch)Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $35 at the doorGeneral Admission: $45 in advance | $55 at the door
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.
#FMWFTraining
Business Training Sponsors
Supporting SponsorsBell State Bank & Trust
Eventide Senior Living Communities GOLDMARK Property Management
InterceptEFTNetWork Center, Inc.
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Program Sponsors
Data Breaches, Credit Card Fraud, Front Page News…Are You Next?
Don’t fall victim to fraud. Know what the hackers are up to when it comes to stealing your personal data to commit fraud. Unfortunately, skilled thieves need only a minute, sometimes a second to steal your credit card data and commit fraud.
Just as technology has advanced, so have the hackers. Purse snatching is a thing of the past. So are the days of kids spending all night in the basement on dial-up. These situations have been replaced with organized crime hacker and government-sponsored cyber warfare.
Why do companies get “hacked,” and who suffers from the results? The answer to protect yourself was established as early as the 1950s, but the ways to protect yourself change with technology every day.
Computer Forensics Manager Calvin Weeks from Eide Bailly LLP will cover the latest fraud and security control concepts to help prevent tomorrow’s compromise to keep you from being the next front page story.
Join UsWednesday, March 11 | 11:30 to 1 p.m.
Holiday Inn Fargo, 3803 13th Avenue South
Improve the Health and Productivity of Your Employees
and Your OrganizationSign up for the Affinity Employee Assistance Program
for Chamber Members provided by The Village Business Institute (VBI).
EAP benefit services include:
• Free personal counseling• Counseling regarding workplace issues• Financial and legal counseling• Supervisor tools and resources
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Implementing VBI’s employee assistance program in your company will increase employee productivity, job satisfaction, and wellness.
For more information, call The Village Business Institute at 701-451-4900.
12 | March 2015
#FMWFTraining
Business Training
Join UsWednesday, April 11 | 11:30 to 1 p.m.
Hilton Garden Inn Fargo, 4351 17th Avenue South
From Followers to Brand Advocates: How NDSU Athletics Harnesses the Power of Social Media
NDSU Athletics have not only won Division I championships on the field, they’ve also been national leaders in the social media realm, helping turn the Bison into America’s favorite school on the tundra. Find out how the Herd has used social media to help tell their story, boost department revenue and control their message all while bringing national attention to NDSU, Fargo and the state.
During this session, you will§Learn how NDSU converted casual fans into passionate brand advocates through effective social media messaging.
§Discover how the Bison use social media to solicit real-time feedback that has helped the Herd make meaningful decisions.
§Find out how the Bison leveraged great content on a limited budget to achieve an incredible ROI with an understaffed marketing/social media department.
Justin Swanson joined the North Dakota State University athletic department as the director of marketing and promotions in May 2012. He oversees the marketing and promotion of all 16 Bison varsity sports.
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fmwfchamber.com | 13
Women ConnectPitching Your Idea and Getting to Yes
What happens when you pitch your brilliant idea, and you’re told “no”? How do you recover and realize that “no” can be temporary? Understanding the motivations or fears behind “no” can lead to creative flanking strategies that make your ideas stronger and help you overcome objections to get to “yes!”
Jodi Heilman, senior vice president of marketing at Bell State Bank & Trust, has built her 20-year career pitching creative marketing and advertising strategies, while passionately working to change the game for women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Danielle Paulus, director of residential property management at ROERS, has built a team that is committed to providing a premier living experience as well as a culture focused on the core values of honesty, relationships, service, creativity, forward thinking and courage.
Attend Women Connect on March 24 and find out how “no” can be the most powerful step on your way to “yes.”
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Tuesday, March 24 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.Social to follow from 5 to 6 p.m.
Avalon Events Center West, 2525 Ninth Avenue South, Fargo
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.
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14 | March 2015
Women Connect
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Women For Women: Female Relationships in the WorkplaceDo you wish for healthier and more genuine relationships with women in the workplace? Are you exhausted by comparing yourself to other women and coming up short? Do you wonder why, no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to achieve the vision of what is expected of you? Do you long to be released from the requirement of living someone else’s definition of success?
If these questions resonate with you, and you are prepared to discover how to live a life where comparison no longer steals your joy, and where women, including YOURSELF, are seen not as competition but as sources of inspiration, wisdom and support, then this session is for you.
Presented by Michelle Kommer, chief administrative office/general counsel at Western State Bank, this session will explore the dynamics of women’s relationships with one another in the workplace and provide actionable strategies to generate personal and professional satisfaction.
Join us in a journey to live life as we were designed to live it, and not as it has been designed for us!
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Supporting SponsorsEide Bailly LLPEssentia HealthGate City Bank
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Tuesday, April 28 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.Social to follow from 5 to 6 p.m.
Avalon Events Center West, 2525 Ninth Avenue South, Fargo
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.
#FMWFWC
fmwfchamber.com | 15
Women Connect Program Kicks Off With Sell-Out Crowd, Phenomenal Speaker
More than 500 women packed the Hilton Garden Inn Fargo last month for a chance to be inspired by author and businesswoman Lynette Lewis, the author of “Climbing the Ladder in Stilettos.” Lewis served as the keynote speaker for the new program’s inaugural session, and she did it with panache, humor and humility.
Her message about dreams and the power of connection resonated with attendees, who left with Lewis’s book, new connections and motivation to pursue what they most want to achieve. Lewis shared her 1-1-1 strategy, which encourages taking one step once a week toward one dream, a principle busy women who balance work, home life and community involvement can relate to.
Lewis also worked in reflection and connection moments throughout her presentation to ensure attendees would leave with well-defined steps as well as individuals to help them move forward in those steps.
“Your dream is someone else’s answer,” Lewis said. “If you don’t move forward on your dreams, that person will never realize theirs.”
Intertwined in her presentation were heartfelt, touching stories about her own trials of re-evaluating her life plans in college to counseling to marrying later in life to dealing with the death of a beloved stepson to adopting twin girls.
“Don’t ever quit dreaming,” she said. “Dreams are what tell our hearts that we’re living, not dying.”
A social after the event offered attendees the opportunity to continue networking and discussing the content.
Attendees also donated more than 100 pairs of shoes to Dress For Success Red River Valley, a local nonprofit that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and career development tools to succeed in work and life. Dress for Success Red River Valley was a nonprofit partner for last year’s Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo program, which helped the organization develop a professional women’s group.
Check out all the great observations from the event by searching #FMWFWC, and be sure to join the FMWF Chamber Women Connect Facebook group to continue the conversation. Photos from the event on available on The Chamber’s Flickr page as well as in the Facebook group.
Women Connect
During the social, Lewis signed books, taking time to get cell phone photos along the way.
16 | March 2015
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Treat Your Team Luncheon Wednesday, April 22 | Seating at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
$17 per person, includes tax and gratuityMezzaluna, 309 Roberts Street North, Suite 100, FargoRustica Eatery & Tavern, 315 Main Avenue, Moorhead
April 22 is Administrative Professionals Day, so join your Chamber in celebrating those who make our everyday work lives so much easier and more organized. Treat your staff and recognize them for lunch at the annual Treat Your Team Luncheon.
You have two locations to choose from to enjoy great food and a relaxing atmosphere, without the wait!
Proceeds from the event will benefit YEA! a new and exciting entrepreneurial program for middle and high school students.
Seating is limited so register early at www.fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100 for more information.
Sponsored by
Building for you.Sanford Fargo Medical Center
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fmwfchamber.com | 17
Young Professionals Network
YPN Program Sponsors
One to WatchKarl Warner, New York Life Insurance Company
“Karl has been an instrumental addition to the Membership Services committee and to YPN as a whole. He is always sharing new ideas and great things that the committee can focus on, and he has an awesome way of inviting new people to the Young
Professionals Network and making sure everyone is feeling included. We are lucky to have Karl so involved in YPN.”
Benefits of Social Media in Personal and Professional Life
Tuesday, March 17 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Baymont Inn & Suites, 3333 13th Avenue South, Fargo
YPN Member: $20 | Non-Member: $30
Utilizing social media outlets such as Twitter and Facebook is second nature for young professionals. Are you using them to the best way you know how? Learn from Whitney Nelson from Onsharp how Twitter can be used in many positive ways including personal brand development and building professional relationships.
Upcoming YPN Events
#FMWFYPN
Special Volunteer OpportunitiesSaturday, March 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
YWCA Cass Clay, 3000 University Drive South, Fargo
Looking for a way to give back to your community? Join us as we cook a spaghetti lunch for the YWCA residents. We are invited to join in on the meal and visit with the families once the cooking is complete. If you are interested in the opportunity, please contact Sam at 218.359.0529 or [email protected].
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Thursday, March 19 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.Bordertown Bar & Grill, 807 Main Avenue East, West Fargo, ND
Free, no registration required.
Time for another monthly fix of stellar networking! Come check out this unique hotspot with some fellow young professionals, and be sure to bring your business cards. Appetizers will be provided, and beverages are available.
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18 | March 2015
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.
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Metro Area Libraries Launch Arts Pass Program
The Fargo Public Library, the Moorhead Public Library, the West Fargo Public Library and The Arts Partnership launched the Metro Arts and Culture Pass program last month. The program allows library cardholders at all three metro-area public libraries the ability to enjoy an array of cultural resources in the community.
With coordination from The Arts Partnership, 12 local arts and culture organizations have extended either special offers or free admission to cultural events to local residents who check out one of the limited number of arts passes.
For more information, visit theartspartnership.net/metro-arts-pass.
FM CVB Unveils New Brand
Last month, city officials, stakeholders and the community experienced the new Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) branding platform, “North of Normal,” which presents the metro as a naturally cool and unique destination for visitors around the region and beyond.
Brand presentations cited developments like contemporary art exhibits, independently-owned and -operated boutiques, trendy eateries, business startups, and the population’s hard-working and energetic spirit as evidence that the F-M area is set a bar higher than the norm found in many American destinations.
A video highlighting the new brand and its meaning is available on the CVB’s Facebook page (Visit Fargo-Moorhead).
Save the DateKegs & Issues Thursday, May 7 | 4 to 5 p.m.
Social to follow from 5 to 6 p.m.D-S Beverages, Inc., 201 17th Street North, Moorhead
Michele Kelm-Helgen, chair of the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, is leading the charge in planning and designing the new Minnesota Vikings stadium.
During this special presentation, Kelm-Helgen will talk about the project as well
as partner roles, what the new facility may look like, how the surrounding area would be impacted, the various uses for the stadium before wrapping up with an update on progress of the construction.
Don’t miss this chance to get the insider’s scoop on this new facility!
Register at www.fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.
fmwfchamber.com | 21
Member News702 Communications was chosen as the basic television provider for Valley Rental Service, Inc., properties. Residents in more than 1,200 units will receive 702’s Dish Network services.
Jason Sanden, instrumentation and controls division manager, and Richard Wagner, project manager, were among 13 employees who were given ownership in 2014 of Advanced Elements, the holding company of Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. (AE2S). Ownership of Advanced Elements is offered to entity employees by invitation from existing shareholders. The invitation is extended to those who exemplify commitment to a broad spectrum of criteria, including financial understanding and ability, client management, contribution to business development, leadership, character, maturity and technical ability.
Johnson
Kelsey Johnson was hired as a digital marketing coordinator for Arvig. Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications and marketing from Minnesota State University Moorhead. She recently earned her Google AdWords certification.
Boroski Duncan
Dawid Boroski was hired as a technology consultant, and Elijah Duncan was hired as a network analyst at Blueprint IT Solutions. Boroski has more than 15 years of experience in business, hospitality and technology sales. Duncan has more than five years experience in network technology and is currently studying information technology at Minnesota State University Moorhead.
Boyer
Wade Boyer, a wireless network engineer at Blueprint IT Solutions, passed the Certified Wireless Network Administrator exam. As a CWNA professional, Boyer has demonstrated the skills necessary to successfully survey, install and administer enterprise WiFi networks.
Choice Financial donated $6,451.53 to the Great Plains Food Bank in conjunction with their “Swipe Out Hunger” campaign. During the six-week campaign, Choice donated 25¢ for each debit card ‘swipe’ a customer made and an additional 25¢ for every new Facebook ‘like’ received on their Choice Financial Facebook page.
Coffee News was ranked seventh on Franchiserankings.com’s Best Home Based Franchise list. Coffee News has been operating in Fargo for two years.
Murch Stiel
Douglas W. Murch and Stephannie N. Stiel were named shareholders at Conmy Feste, Ltd. Murch joined the firm in 2008. Stiel joined the firm in 2004.
Corporate Technologies hired 18 new employees. Three of the new hires will be working as service sales executives selling managed IT services to small and mid-sized businesses. The remaining 15 employees will join Corporate Technologies’ Technical Support Team. The new hires have a variety of skills and experience and will be performing Tier I and Tier II technical support for Corporate Technologies customers all over the region.
DFC Consultants was accredited as a Pearson VUE testing center where candidates can achieve certification in IT programs such as Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle and Adobe. Pearson VUE is the sole exam delivery provider for Microsoft certifications.
Ihry
Keely Ihry joined Dakota Medical Foundation as the strategic initiatives lead. Ihry most recently spent eight years at Clay County Public Health.
Edward Jones is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the firm’s first partnership offering. Today, Edward Jones has expanded the partnership to more than 20,000 limited partners.
Rose Abraham and Matthew De Vries accepted limited partnerships with Edward Jones. Abraham increased her current limited partnership holdings while De Vries accepted an initial limited partnership offer. Abraham joined Edward Jones in 2001. De Vries joined Edward Jones in 2008.
Chavez Fahnhorst Grant Stai-Johnson Nicholas Chavez was hired as an audit associate; Logan Fahnhorst was hired as an audit associate; Jamie Grant was hired as a business applications manager; and Dee Stai-Johnson was hired as an accounting services senior associate for Eide Bailly LLP. Chavez holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration – finance from Colorado State University, a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Colorado – Denver and is working toward an MBA from the University of Colorado – Denver. Fahnhorst has a bachelor’s degree in professional accountancy and finance from Northern State University. Grant has more than 17 years of experience in the technology market. Stai-Johnson is a graduate of Montana State University.
Cline Richardson
Kara Cline was hired as psychologist; Vicki Hanson was hired as drug testing coordinator; Dr. Shoshone Richardson was hired to be part of the emergency medicine department; and Chuck Ulrich was hired as manager of the occupational medicine program Essentia Health. Cline earned a master’s degree in counseling and a doctorate degree in
counseling psychology from the University of North Dakota. Hanson brings 24 years of experience working with drug and alcohol programs. Richardson earned her medical degree and completed a residency in emergency medicine at Ohio State. Ulrich brings more than 11 years of experience in the field.
The Fargo Public Library made history in its organization by lending more than 1 million items in 2014. The library’s total circulation was 1,000,024 items. Books and magazines accounted for 46 percent of the overall circulation, while assorted non-print items and media, including ebooks, DVDs and CDs, accounted for 36 percent of the circulation numbers last year.
Borland Fraase Christ Wood Jay Borland and John Fraase were hired as staff accountants, and Ashley Christ and Steve Wood were hired as in-charge accountants at Fiebiger, Swanson, West & Co., PLLP. Borland previously worked in internal audit at a local company. Fraase earned a bachelor’s degree from Concordia College and a Master of Accountancy degree from North Dakota State University. Christ and Wood both have four years of public accounting experience prior to joining Fiebiger, Swanson, West & Co., PLLP.
Culver Morris Neal Troxell Philip Culver was hired as a project manager; David LaDuke was hired as a conversion programmer; Chris Morris was hired as an iOS developer; Phillip Neal was hired as a software developer; and Adam Troxell was hired to join the tech support team at Financial Business Systems Inc. Culver is a Certified Scrum Master (CSM) and Certified Project Management Professional (PMP). LaDuke earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Bemidji State University. Morris brings more than 20 years overall software development and more than three years iOS development experience. Neal graduated from UC Berkeley and earned a master’s degree at the University of Washington. Troxell has years of experience supporting end users on a number of highly specific products, such as Microsoft Sharepoint and Exchange servers.
Germandson Monson Nicholson
Jake Germundson was hired as a community banker; Nate Monson was hired as a mortgage loan officer; and Norman Nicholson was hired as a community banker at First International Bank & Trust. Germundson earned a
degree in accounting from North Dakota State University. Monson brings 27 years of mortgage lending experience within the Fargo-Moorhead area. Nicholson earned a degree in agribusiness from North Dakota State University.
22 | March 2015
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The Fargo Public Library made history in its organization by lending more than 1 million items in 2014. The library’s total circulation was 1,000,024 items. Books and magazines accounted for 46 percent of the overall circulation, while assorted non-print items and media, including ebooks, DVDs and CDs, accounted for 36 percent of the circulation numbers last year.
Borland Fraase Christ Wood Jay Borland and John Fraase were hired as staff accountants, and Ashley Christ and Steve Wood were hired as in-charge accountants at Fiebiger, Swanson, West & Co., PLLP. Borland previously worked in internal audit at a local company. Fraase earned a bachelor’s degree from Concordia College and a Master of Accountancy degree from North Dakota State University. Christ and Wood both have four years of public accounting experience prior to joining Fiebiger, Swanson, West & Co., PLLP.
Culver Morris Neal Troxell Philip Culver was hired as a project manager; David LaDuke was hired as a conversion programmer; Chris Morris was hired as an iOS developer; Phillip Neal was hired as a software developer; and Adam Troxell was hired to join the tech support team at Financial Business Systems Inc. Culver is a Certified Scrum Master (CSM) and Certified Project Management Professional (PMP). LaDuke earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Bemidji State University. Morris brings more than 20 years overall software development and more than three years iOS development experience. Neal graduated from UC Berkeley and earned a master’s degree at the University of Washington. Troxell has years of experience supporting end users on a number of highly specific products, such as Microsoft Sharepoint and Exchange servers.
Germandson Monson Nicholson
Jake Germundson was hired as a community banker; Nate Monson was hired as a mortgage loan officer; and Norman Nicholson was hired as a community banker at First International Bank & Trust. Germundson earned a
degree in accounting from North Dakota State University. Monson brings 27 years of mortgage lending experience within the Fargo-Moorhead area. Nicholson earned a degree in agribusiness from North Dakota State University.
Bishop McCloud O'Tremba Roerick
Smith Watson Krueger Hallaway
Schmidt
High Point Networks honored the following employees at its annual meeting and company party: Kyle Bishop, the Extra Mile Award, recognizing an individual who makes every interaction count by going above and beyond what is expected of them; Tyler McCloud, the Teamwork Award, recognizing an individual who puts team first; Jared O’ Tremba, the Outstanding New Comer Award, recognizing an individual who is new to High Point Networks and has made an
immediate impact; Dan Roerick, High Point Award, recognizing the person who lives the mission and values upon which High Point Networks is founded and goes out of their way to highlight the value of partnering with High Point Networks; Chad Smith, the Growth Award, recognizing the person who has shown the most growth in the past year; and Chris Watson, The Lewis & Clark Award, recognizing an individual who explored new markets and new technologies in order to achieve their goals and increase HPN market share. Dan Roerick was recognized for 10 years of service, and Allen Krueger, Merrilee Hallaway and Meghan Schmidt were recognized for five years of service.
Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County was awarded a grant from Minnesota Historical Society to hire a project archivist. This addition to the HCS staff will spend 2015 and half of 2016 systematically organizing manuscript collections, paper records, documents, letters, scrapbooks, newspapers, pamphlets, maps, posters, photographs, tapes, films, disks, genealogical and related ephemera and other relevant print or electronic material of an archival nature that reflects primarily Clay County history.
Hook
Serrao
Megan Hook was hired as the director of sales and James Serrao was hired as the general manager for the new Holiday Inn Express Fargo SW opening in March 2015. Hook previously was the sales manager for the Fargo Holiday Inn and will now be selling for all three First Call Hospitality locations. Serrao has more than 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry.
Your complete distributor for all your paper, plastic, janitorial, packaging, equipment & supply needs since 1918.
www.colepapers.comfmwfchamber.com | 23
Barber Dilliplane Doyle Eilertson Brett Barber was hired as a civil technician; Doug Dilliplane, PE, was hired as a transportation project manager; Megan Doyle was hired as a receptionist; Cody Eilertson was hired as the director of operations at Houston Engineering, Inc. Barber earned his associates degree in land surveying from NDSCS and his bachelor’s degree in English from St. Olaf. Dilliplane earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Drexel University. Doyle earned degree in hospitality tourism management from North Dakota State University. Eilertson brings more than 15 years of professional experience.
Langan Schlieman Schultz Schwengler Jeff Langan, Jim Schlieman, Bart Schultz and Dave Schwengler were named company shareholders at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI). Langan, PE, is currently the office manager has been with the company since 2005. Schlieman, PLS, CFedS, has been with HEI for 13 years. Schultz, PE, has been with the company for 15 years. Schwengler has been with HEI for 11 years.
JLG Architects announced the opening of a new branch office in Brookings, South Dakota. It is the firm’s first office in the state.
Lee Flom
Shonda Lee was hired as executive assistant for Keller Williams Roers Realty. Beau Flom, Keller Williams Roers Realty, was named top closed volume for December.
Marco, Inc. has been selected as a 2014 Elite Dealer by ENX magazine and The Week in Imaging, a print and online publication for dealers and resellers of office technology, solutions and services. Marco was chosen for their innovative marketing and sales programs and special initiatives. Marco, Inc. was also selected as the North Dakota Young Professionals 2014 Best Place to Intern and runner-up for the 2014 Best Place to Work. The awards are a reflection of the creativity and innovation that businesses offer young professionals.
Engels
Chad Engels, a professional engineer and certified floodplain manager at Moore Engineering Inc., received the Red River Joint Water Resource District 2014 Steamboat Award. The Steamboat Award is presented for distinguished service of management of water resources in the Red River watershed of North Dakota.
Jean Taylor, Mosaic Catering, succeeded in earning the title of Certified Sommelier by Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas. This is a huge honor and a step forward for the hospitality industry in North Dakota and western Minnesota.
Reger
Dallas Reger was hired as a service technician at Nardini Fire Equipment of ND. Reger most recently worked for Johnson’s Lawn Care.
Tonya Milbrandt was hired as a staff accountant at National Hospitality Services. Milbrandt has more than 15 years of accounting experience.
NetWork Center, Inc., announced they will be a 100 percent employee-owned company. NetWork Center, Inc. implemented an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that allows NCI employees to share in the company’s growth and success.
Hedberg
Emalee Hedberg was hired as a graphic design and marketing coordinator at NetWork Center, Inc. Hedberg graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications and a minor in mass communications.
Bruce Donarski, NetWork Center, Inc., achieved VSP 5.5 certification from VMware.
Monilaws Nelson
Terri Monilaws was promoted to manager of the Part A and Part B provider call center, and Melissa Nelson was promoted to manager of provider enrollment in Jurisdiction E (JE) and Jurisdiction F (JF) at Noridian Healthcare Solutions. Monilaws began her Noridian career in 1998 as a correspondence examiner. Nelson began her Noridian career in 2004 as a
customer service representative.
Andres Axtman Brekke
Josh Andres was hired as a controller; Sera Axtman was hired as a donor relations coordinator; and Kelly Brekke was hired as event and program coordinator at NDSU Alumni Association and Development Foundation
and Alumni Association. Andres most recently worked for Eide Bailly, where he worked with not-for-profit, healthcare and benefit plan clients. Axtman is a graduate of Minnesota State Community and Technical College and also has a degree in desktop publishing and design. Brekke was previously the community development manager for the Arthritis Foundation Upper Midwest Region, planning and managing events and health promotion programs.
In 2014, 98 percent of North Dakota State College of Science graduates were employed or continuing their education with 67 percent in a field related to their program of study. Sixty-nine percent have accepted employment in North Dakota, while 88 percent of those pursuing additional education have chosen to do so at a college or university located in North Dakota.
Ockhardt Realty, LLC, purchased Fargo Homes Buyer Agency, expanding their reach in the area.
Suchy
Rachel Suchy was hired as a digital marketing intern at Onsharp. Suchy is an international business and Spanish student at Concordia College in Moorhead.
Halvorson
Sedi Halvorson was hired as general manager at the Oxbow Country Club. Halvorson has been in the hospitality profession since 2000.
Heck
Holly (Kurth) Heck was hired as a real estate agent at Park Co. Realtors. Heck comes to Park Co. with three years experience in real estate in the Twin Cities.
Sobolik Youngbird
Melissa Sobolik was hired as development director, and Laura Youngbird was hired as program director for an outreach project with Native American artists at Plains Art Museum. Sobolik was previously director of agency and client services at the Great Plains Food Bank where she directed programs statewide for food pantries, shelters and soup kitchens. Youngbird
previously taught at Circle of Nations School, an inter-tribal, off-reservation boarding school for grades 4-8.
Erbstoesser Ochsner
Jerry Erbstoesser has been named banquet manager, and Peter Ochsner was hired as banquet sous chef at Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center. Erbstoesser began his hospitality career at the Village Inn where he held various positions before being promoted to general manager. Ochsner began his culinary career by attending LeCordon Bleu and working at Kincaids.
Jensen Ulmer
Andrea Jensen was hired as safety manager, and Dustin Ulmer was hired as human resources manager at ROERS. Jensen brings extensive knowledge of safety policies and procedures in a large trucking company. Ulmer previously worked in human resources for a large digital information company.
Peterson
Ashley Peterson was hired as senior accountant at SK Food International, Inc. Peterson holds a business administration degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead.
24 | March 2015
Reger
Dallas Reger was hired as a service technician at Nardini Fire Equipment of ND. Reger most recently worked for Johnson’s Lawn Care.
Tonya Milbrandt was hired as a staff accountant at National Hospitality Services. Milbrandt has more than 15 years of accounting experience.
NetWork Center, Inc., announced they will be a 100 percent employee-owned company. NetWork Center, Inc. implemented an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that allows NCI employees to share in the company’s growth and success.
Hedberg
Emalee Hedberg was hired as a graphic design and marketing coordinator at NetWork Center, Inc. Hedberg graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a bachelor’s degree in graphic communications and a minor in mass communications.
Bruce Donarski, NetWork Center, Inc., achieved VSP 5.5 certification from VMware.
Monilaws Nelson
Terri Monilaws was promoted to manager of the Part A and Part B provider call center, and Melissa Nelson was promoted to manager of provider enrollment in Jurisdiction E (JE) and Jurisdiction F (JF) at Noridian Healthcare Solutions. Monilaws began her Noridian career in 1998 as a correspondence examiner. Nelson began her Noridian career in 2004 as a
customer service representative.
Andres Axtman Brekke
Josh Andres was hired as a controller; Sera Axtman was hired as a donor relations coordinator; and Kelly Brekke was hired as event and program coordinator at NDSU Alumni Association and Development Foundation
and Alumni Association. Andres most recently worked for Eide Bailly, where he worked with not-for-profit, healthcare and benefit plan clients. Axtman is a graduate of Minnesota State Community and Technical College and also has a degree in desktop publishing and design. Brekke was previously the community development manager for the Arthritis Foundation Upper Midwest Region, planning and managing events and health promotion programs.
In 2014, 98 percent of North Dakota State College of Science graduates were employed or continuing their education with 67 percent in a field related to their program of study. Sixty-nine percent have accepted employment in North Dakota, while 88 percent of those pursuing additional education have chosen to do so at a college or university located in North Dakota.
Ockhardt Realty, LLC, purchased Fargo Homes Buyer Agency, expanding their reach in the area.
Suchy
Rachel Suchy was hired as a digital marketing intern at Onsharp. Suchy is an international business and Spanish student at Concordia College in Moorhead.
Halvorson
Sedi Halvorson was hired as general manager at the Oxbow Country Club. Halvorson has been in the hospitality profession since 2000.
Heck
Holly (Kurth) Heck was hired as a real estate agent at Park Co. Realtors. Heck comes to Park Co. with three years experience in real estate in the Twin Cities.
Sobolik Youngbird
Melissa Sobolik was hired as development director, and Laura Youngbird was hired as program director for an outreach project with Native American artists at Plains Art Museum. Sobolik was previously director of agency and client services at the Great Plains Food Bank where she directed programs statewide for food pantries, shelters and soup kitchens. Youngbird
previously taught at Circle of Nations School, an inter-tribal, off-reservation boarding school for grades 4-8.
Erbstoesser Ochsner
Jerry Erbstoesser has been named banquet manager, and Peter Ochsner was hired as banquet sous chef at Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center. Erbstoesser began his hospitality career at the Village Inn where he held various positions before being promoted to general manager. Ochsner began his culinary career by attending LeCordon Bleu and working at Kincaids.
Jensen Ulmer
Andrea Jensen was hired as safety manager, and Dustin Ulmer was hired as human resources manager at ROERS. Jensen brings extensive knowledge of safety policies and procedures in a large trucking company. Ulmer previously worked in human resources for a large digital information company.
Peterson
Ashley Peterson was hired as senior accountant at SK Food International, Inc. Peterson holds a business administration degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead.
TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics has named Alerus Financial as an ambassador. The ambassador program allows TNT to recognize corporate champions in the community and thank them for their support and partnership. Alerus Financial shares employee time and talents with TNT’s events such as Giving Hearts Day, In Their Shoes and the Winter Challenge Gymnastics meet.
TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics announced the expansion of their current facility. The new space will be a home to multiple organizations sharing one space including the Anne Carlsen Center and Haley’s Hope organizations. The new sharing space will include the nation’s first public sensory gym.
Ulteig was named the 2015 winner of the Award for Engineering Excellence in the category of Structural Systems by the American Council of Engineering Companies of North Dakota (ACEC/ND) for the Sixth Street Parking Ramp in Downtown Bismarck. This project is unique because it not only symbolizes both economic and population growth for the western part of North Dakota, but it’s an indicator of the revitalization of Bismarck.
Bartholomay Bervik
Megan Bartholomay was hired as a marketing communications specialist, and Paul Bervik was hired as a graduate engineer at Ulteig. Bartholomay previously worked as a proposal writer for Houston Engineering. Bervik most recently worked for the Clay County Highway Department as an intern.
Valley Imports is celebrating their 40th anniversary. Valley Imports has been serving the region since 1975.
Rosenfeldt
Jade Rosenfeldt has become a shareholder in at Vogel Law Firm. Rosenfeldt graduated from Concordia College with a bachelor’s in sociology and social work. She then graduated from the University of North Dakota School of Law.
Stubbs
Ciara Stubbs was hired as a customer care banker at Western State Bank. Prior to joining Western, Stubbs worked at Gate City Bank as a customer service representative.
Erickson Huus Veum
Tim Erickson, Andrew Huus and Kyle Veum were hired as staff accountants at Widmer Roel, PC. Erickson has a bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Huus has a bachelor’s degree from the
University of North Dakota. Veum has a bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University.
Avard Fagerland
Matt Avard and Leah Fagerland were hired as project managers at Zerr Berg Architects. Both Avard and Fagerland earned a Masters of Architecture degree from NDSU.
fmwfchamber.com | 25
Member Profile
AgCountry Farm Credit Serviceswww.agcountry.com
Ameriprise Financialameripriseadvisors.com/dennis.a.draeger
Bank of the West Investment Serviceswww.bankofthewest.com
Bennett Financial Services
BNG Holdings, Inc.www.bngteam.com
Breath Is Limited Motivational Speaking, LLCwww.breathIsLimited.com
Cargill Finance Shared Serviceswww.cargill.com
Century Financial Advisors Inc.www.centuryfinancialadvisors.com
Choice Financial Health Savings Accounts Choice Financial Mortgage Serviceswww.choicefinancialgroup.com
CollegeSmartwww.gocollegesmart.com
Contego Capital Advisorswww.jamiesoncapital.com
COUNTRY Financialwww.countryfinancial.com
Discovery Benefits Inc.www.discoverybenefits.com
Dougherty Company LLCwww.doughertymarkets.com
Eide Bailly LLPwww.eidebailly.com
Edward Jones Investments - Matthew De Vries CFP www.edwardjones.com
Edward Jones Investments - CindyMagnusonwww.edwardjones.com
Edward Jones Investments - Alisha Milanderwww.edwardjones.com
Edward Jones Investments - Sarah Niklewww.edwardjones.com/en_US/fa/index.html&CIRN=524353
Edward Jones Investments - Jana Thielgeswww.edwardjones.com
Eide Bailly Financial Serviceswww.eidebailly.com
Financial Strategies Groupwww.finstrat.com
First International Bank & Trust – Fargo and West Fargowww.firstintlbank.com
First International Investmentswww.investmentcenters.com
Foster Klima Company, Inc.www.fosterklima.com
Heartland Trust Companywww.heartlandtrust.com
InterceptEFTwww.intercepteft.com
Mark E Larson CPA, PLLCwww.marklarsoncpa.com
Legacy Wealth Managementwww.legacywealthfargo.com
Merrill Lynchwww.local.ml.com/fargo-nd
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, Inc.www.morganstanleysmithbarney.com
New York Life Insurance Company www.northdakota.nyloffices.com
Northwestern Mutualwww.northwesternmutual.com
Ohio National Financial Serviceswww.ohionational.com
Ranstrom Berg Wealth Management, LLCwww.ranstrom.com
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.www.raymondjames.com
Red River Financialwww.redriverfinancialgroup.com
Starion Financial – two locations in Fargowww.starionfinancial.com
State Farm Insurance – Don Gronkewww.dongronke.com
Sycorrwww.sycorr.com
Thrivent Financialwww.thrivent.com
Thrivent Financial Red River Financial Associates www.thrivent.com
Treasure Island Coins, Inc.www.treasureislandcoins.com
United Capital Financial Advisors LLCwww.fargo.unitedcp.com
US Bank Private Client Groupwww.usbank.com
Waddell Reed Financial Serviceswww.waddell.com
Wells Fargo Advisors, LLCwww.wellsfargoadvisorsinfo.com
Wells Fargo Banker ConnectionWells Fargo Institutional TrustWells Fargo Treasury ManagementWells Fargo Wealth Management Advisorswww.wellsfargo.com
Widmer Roel PCwww.widmerroelcpa.com
Get Financially Fit With the Help of Chamber MembersWith the deadline for filing your tax return looming on the horizon, many of you reading this feel mired in the details of where your hard-earned money goes. If you’re interested in learning more about financial planning, the following Chamber members offer a variety of consultative financial services.
26 | March 2015
BioLife: Saving Lives One Donation at a TimeEvery week, more than 7,000 people donate life-saving plasma at one of BioLife’s three locations in the metro.
Plasma, the fluid that carries blood components throughout the body, accounts for 55 percent of total blood composition. During donations, the plasma is separated and the remaining parts of the blood are put back into the body. Plasma, unlike whole blood, is replaced quickly in the body, taking only 48 hours to replenish after a donation. This allows donors to give multiple times a week versus every eight weeks with whole blood donations.
Before BioLife’s plasma makes it’s way into a hospital, their parent company, Baxter International, converts the plasma into life-saving therapies. The products help patients suffering from hemophilia, immune deficiencies, kidney disease and other disorders. Many times, the therapy allows patients to have a normal life, free them from debilitating symptoms of their chronic disorders.
Kayla Beehler, senior regional marketing representative, said customer service is what sets BioLife apart from their competitors. “We try to make it as convenient as possible,” Beehler said. Some of the things BioLife does to make the experience more convenient are free supervised childcare, Wi-Fi access and appointments that are run efficiently so donors can be in and out in on time (usually about an hour.)
BioLife has operated in the metro for more than 12 years, and, prior to that, operated as FM Community Bio Resources. BioLife has 73 centers across the country with 9-10 new facilities planned for 2015.
As an organization, BioLife believes in investing in the communities where they have facilities. The new West Fargo facility was a $7 million investment. Every year, they inject $2-3 million into the local community through compensation to donors; the company also employs 240 full- and part-time employees in the local market who have full health and dental benefits. When it comes to hiring, experience always helps but it’s not necessary as BioLife trains all their technicians on-site.
Member Profile
Who Can Donate?People in generally good health, ages 18 to 69 who weigh at least 110 lbs.
Every electric co-op member has a say in what’s best for the cooperative. Power to the people, from the people. Doesn’t that sound good? Learn more about the power of your co-op membership at kWh.com
EVERY MEMBER HAS A VOICE.TOGETHER THEY WORK IN HARMONY.
www.kWh.com • 701.356.4400
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!
Welcome New Members
Absolute Insurance Agency, LLC1241 Prairie Parkway, Suite 120 West Fargo, ND 58078701.365.0515 www.absoluteinsure.comInsuranceJalissa HovlandAbsolute Insurance Agency, LCC offers professional insurance packages at affordable prices, with several years of insurance experience. Agents can help you find the proper insurance coverage for you, your family and your business.
Advanced Asset Alliance3500 First Avenue South, Suite 100 Sioux Falls, SD 57105605.978.9698 www.advancedassetalliance.comCollection AgenciesLisa SchultzAdvanced Asset Alliance is an alliance of companies dedicated to the delivery of safe and compliant financial payment solutions for its clients. Each company stands ready to meet the needs of its clients from point of sale payment processing to bad debt resolution. Commitment to excellence, compliance and technology are the foundation of these companies. They understand that their clients are the reason for being.
Algorithme Pharma USA4837Amber Valley Parkway South Fargo, ND 58104701.356.4000 www.fargostudies.comResearch and DevelopmentJohn WickenheiserAlgorithme Pharma is an internationally recognized research company specializing in clinical trials.
American Advertising Federation of North DakotaP.O. Box 1051 Fargo, ND 58107-1051701.478.1111 www.aaf-nd.orgClubs - OrganizationsMacDalton BernsAAF ND is an inclusive club open to anyone in a communication related field, such as corporate communicators, public relations practitioners, journalists, freelance writers, designers and multimedia specialists, advertising sales representatives, musicians and printers. For more than 50 years, the organization has provided members professional development and networking opportunities, recognized creativity and excellence in advertising and marketing, and contributed to the vitality, economies and cultures of Red River Valley communities.
Anytime Fitness 52nd Ave5101 Prosperity Way South, Suite 116 Fargo, ND 58104701.566.8507 www.anytimefitness.com/gyms/1655/fargo-nd-58104Fitness CentersAmanda BuchholzAnytime Fitness is a 24-hour, 7-days-a-week, 365-days of the year safe and secure private health club. The organization offers top-of-the-line equipment, cardio-theater, free weights, weight machines, group fitness classes and national access to 2,500 clubs.
Backup Power Source1202 Westrac Drive South, Suite 310 Fargo, ND 581031.800.221.1734 www.backuppowersource.comEnvironmental ConcernsAndy HendersonBPS develops and manufactures the next generation of energy storage systems for homes, small businesses and government agencies. When the grid goes down, BPS powers critical appliances and electronics.
Center for Technology and Business3333 Broadway Avenue East, Suite 1219 Bismarck, ND 58501701.223.0707 www.trainingnd.comConsultantsDeidre HillmanCTB’s programming develops leaders, builds rural communities and mentors women business owners.
CoCo LLC122-1/2 Broadway NorthFargo, ND 58102701.478.3722 www.cocomsp.comBusiness ServicesRachel SternhagenCoCo is a business center that gives you an alternative to working from home or meeting at the local coffee shop. Memberships are available for individuals, small businesses and corporate workgroups.
DAYTA Marketing415 Third Street North, Suite 200 Waite Park, MN 56387320.345.7307 www.daytamarketing.comMarketingAndrew LeintzDAYTA Marketing is a social media marketing agency conducting social media strategies for businesses and organizations. They post, pin, tweet and blog as well as grow large social media audiences for their clients.
Leadergized Consulting LLC4302 13th Avenue South, Suite 4-245 Fargo, ND 58103701.729.4667 www.leadergized.comConsultantsSteve CluteLeadergized Consulting will mentor, motivate and support individuals and groups to deliver a lasting impact. They help people win by doing good things in ways that work. Start-ups to mid-sized companies will benefit from analysis, benchmarking, support and the personal development services offered.
Media In Motion5980 57th Avenue South Fargo, ND 58104701.261.7973 www.mimdisplays.comAdvertisingChris SchoenbornRecruiter: Brandon Geffee, Coaches Choice Corporate Apparel and Athletic ApparelBringing the latest trend in digital advertising to FM Market, Media In Motion partners with FM Taxi to allow signs visibility throughout the entire community.
MediaUSA, Inc.35th Fourth Street East Litchfield, MN 55355701.318.0831 www.theinfotouch.comAdvertisingJoshua LeaseMediaUSA provides advertising on the infoTouch Guest Information Smart Boards, installed in business/leisure class hotels located throughout the upper Midwest. Perfect for businesses looking to reach visitors and guests coming into the Fargo area.
Midcontinent Foundation3901 Louise Avenue North Sioux Falls, SD 57107605.357.5491 www.midcocomm.comFoundationsTom SimmonsThe Midcontinent Foundation was established to provide funding assistance to charitable entities as defined by the IRS that assist in achieving socially desirable goals within the communities served by Midcontinent Communications.
Northland Truss Systems, Inc.4025 Fourth Avenue South, Suite 2 Fargo, ND 58103701.282.4477 www.northlandtrusssystems.comBuilding Materials - SuppliesChristopher LangeNorthland Truss Systems supplies engineered wood roof and floor truss systems in addition to posts, columns, steel and/or wooden beams to meet all your structural building component needs.
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Looking to do Business?Check out our online 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] so we can update our records.
Welcome New Members
Send your events to [email protected] to see them on our community calendar!
March 2015 Community Calendar
Ockhardt Realty, LLC624 Main Avenue, Suite 11 Fargo, ND 58103701.200.3458 www.ockhardtrealty.comReal EstateDirk OckhardtOckhardt Realty understands that real estate is personal, and they look forward to be interviewed by all of their clients before they get hired to serve them best.
Pub West3140 Bluestem DriveWest Fargo, ND 58078701.356.9378Bars/Lounges/Night ClubsLarry HaugerPub West is West Fargo’s Premier sports bar/grill, featuring a full bar, specialty sandwiches and burgers, signature sauces and extensive appetizers. Several 26-inch flat-screen televisions and on-site charitable gaming are available.
Red River Valley Chefs Association69 Fourth Street NorthFargo, ND 58102701.371.3279AssociationsEric WatsonRed River Valley Chefs is a national and local chef collaboration association providing education and networking opportunities for chefs, culinary students and food service professionals.
Regus3523 45th Street South, Suite 100 Fargo, ND 58104701.885.1064 www.regus.comOffice Suite RentalChristine PantherCustomers of all sizes, across a diverse range of sectors use Regus (small businesses to large international companies). Their workplaces provide your business with a professional environment, fully equipped ready to use private offices, virtual offices, meeting rooms and video communication suites.
Supervalu, Inc.3501 12th Avenue North Fargo, ND 58102701.293.2180 www.supervalu.comFood DistributorsDennis SteinmanRecruiter: Doug Restemayer, D-S Beverages, Inc.Supervalu is a grocery industry leader, serving customers through more than 3,400 stores across the country. The Fargo DC serves Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota.
The Toasted Frog305 Broadway North Fargo, ND 58102701.478.7888 www.toastedfrog.comRestaurantsSarah EriksonThe Toasted Frog is an eclectic restaurant/lounge in the heart of downtown featuring wood-fired pizzas, hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood. They also offer an extensive selection of wine, beer and cocktails.
TruGreen417 Fifth Street North Fargo, ND 58102701.232.9454 www.trugreen.comLawn and Garden CareDavid PiepkornRecruiter: Bernie Dardis, Indigo SignworksTruGreen provides lawn fertilization, weed control and core aeration. Established in 1960, TruGreen is the nation’s largest lawn service company.
U Motors, Inc.2600 Main Avenue Fargo, ND 58103701.232.5000MotorcyclesJill ArnesonU Motors is the area’s premier power-sports and marine dealer for the following brands: Honda, Yamaha, KTM, Starcraft, Sylvan, Nautique, Supra, Bad Boy Buggies and EZ GO Golf carts.
EssentiaHealth.org/JustOneThing
from our experts, for your health
JUSTONETHING
“Pay it forward.Giving back to yourcommunity feelsgood and it’s goodfor your health.”Farooq Shahzad, MDPlastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
fmwfchamber.com | 29
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17West Fargo Legislative ForumsWest Fargo City Commission
2015 PRCA Pro RodeoFARGODOME
Bacon & Beer FestivalFARGODOME
2015 ND Cyber Security ConferenceNorth Dakota State University
Learning Opportunities
This two-day program will be held June 10-11 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 presentations skills training seminar is as close as you can get to having a personal, public speaking coach. Learn how to:§Lead effective Q & A sessions.§Motivate and persuade every audience, every time.§Be more relaxed and natural when making presentation.
For additional information call 701.476.8811 or visit www.northdakota.dalecarnegie.com.
High Impact Presentations
Leadership Training for Managers begins April 15. This training meets one morning per week for seven weeks from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Dale Carnegie Training is proud to offer participants the chance to:§Manage conflict and change.§Hold people accountable.§Learn effective coaching techniques.§Keep meetings on track.
For more information, call 701.476.8811 or go online at www.northdakota.dalecarnegie.com.
Leadership Development
Learn how to leverage natural talents, promoting a happier, stronger and more effective personal and work life. Participants will receive the Strengths Finder 2.0 book along and the opportunity to take a web-based assessment that identifies their greatest natural talents well as as:§Gain understanding of strengths and Strengths Finder concepts.§Understand how to maximize strengths in work teams and partnerships in order to increase
effectiveness.§Identify individual action items for personal strengths development.
This workshop is brought to you by trainND, powered by North Dakota State College of Science. The workshop will be held Wednesday, March 25 from 1to 5 p.m. To register or for additional information, call 701.231.6915 or visit www.ndscs.edu/training.
Strenghts Finder Workshop
Project Manager certified professionals are high in demand in many different industries. The University of Mary will offer PMP® & CAPM® certification preparation classes, starting March 23 and will run on Monday evenings through May 18. Classes will be offered in Fargo and Bismarck.
For class times and registration information, visit www.umary.edu/PMP. For more information, contact Continuing Education at the University of Mary at 701.232.7088.
PMP is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.
Project Management Certification Prep Classes Available
Growing Forward is proud to again offer more than 250 leaders in the metro the opportunity to raise their standard of leadership. The theme of this year’s live simulcast - The Brave Ones - will challenge us to focus on the courage necessary to lead.
This year’s speaker lineup includes Andy Stanley, Malala Yousafzai, Ed Catmull, Seth Godin, Rudy Giuliani, Aja Brown, Bill McDermott and CMDR Rorke Denver.
Leadercast Fargo-Moorhead provides more than 250 community leaders the chance to interact, network and discuss leadership - an idea that will raise the caliber and impact of our community. For more information, visit www.leadercastfm.com.
Hear World-Renowned Speakers at 12th Annual Leaderscast Fargo-Moorhead
30 | March 2015
Member ContributionWorkforce Design Matters
Article by Kari Rasmus, Designing Women 2
Technology is changing more than how we work; it is changing the look of offices.
Gone are the days of hierarchical brainstorming sessions where the power sits behind a desk. A new generation of workers who grew up working on group projects in coffee houses and researching on their laptops no longer feels productive sitting all day in a cubicle. People want to tear down the walls to create a flat management structure that encourages interaction, collaboration and brain-storming.
Many offices are creating a mix of rooms that includes:§Pathways that create chance meetings to encourage conversation.§Smaller conference rooms and nooks where employees can continue conversations that
lead to creative problem-solving.§Quiet rooms for concentration, skyped meetings and private calls.§Collaborative areas that may be configured like lounges and include
presentation abilities.§Bench-style workstations.§Common areas for lunch and breaks.
Proponents of activity-based working (ABW) design claim that this new floor plan not only improves teamwork, but creates a greater enjoyment of the workplace. Employees are less sedentary throughout the day and enjoy greater freedom in where and how to work. This, in turn, improves productivity and job satisfaction.
In addition to the layout, the “office furniture” is also changing in these spaces. Couches, chairs, end tables and art all help create an atmosphere that exudes professional warmth. It’s been shown that good design positively affects client confidence, consumer purchasing, and customer satisfaction.
Executive Summary: don’t skimp on your environment; good design positively affects your bottom line.
Gloria Palm ConnorRelocation Specialist
Community Tours ● Home Tours Guides to Social & Cultural Events ● Area Maps
Recreational Activities ● School ToursCommunity Statistics ● School Information
Let Us Help You Recruit Employees to Our Communities
Area Tours for New RecruitsWhen recruiting new employees to the area, our Relocation Services team can assist with area tours for your transferees. Our Realtors® are trained to conduct area tours and are excellent at selling the benefits of our remarkable communities. Employee TransfersWhen transferring employees in or out of the area, Relocation Services works hand-in-hand with your company’s relocation department.
701.237.5031 | 1.800.288.7316RelocationFargo.com 701.298.8300 spherion.com/fargo
Stuck in a humdrum job that keeps you going through the motions rather than reaching the career goals you once dreamed about? Discover a job that makes you happy! Since 1946, Spherion has helped millions of job seekers find exciting career opportunities.
Rediscover Happiness with a job that puts the joy
back in your day.”
Rediscover
fmwfchamber.com | 31
Staying Ahead of Affordable Care Act PenaltiesArticle submitted by Eide Bailly LLC
“Pay or Play” penalties for employers who offer inadequate, unaffordable, or no insurance to their employees are not the only potential penalties under the Affordable Care Act in 2015. There are certain market reforms in place that have two specific requirements: preventing group health insurance from placing annual limits on certain benefits, and requiring non-grandfathered plans to provide certain preventative care without cost-sharing requirements.
Additional penalties are associated with businesses who reimburse employees for individual health insurance. Whether that reimbursement is done pre-tax or post-tax, businesses will be subject to the costly $100-per-day per-person excise tax under Code Section 4980D. Keep in mind these excise taxes are considered penalties, which are non-deductible when it comes to filing income tax returns.
The problem gets worse when it comes to 2 percent S corporation shareholders. Shareholders who had individual health insurance plans are required to have the company reimburse them for their premiums paid personally in order to take the self-employed health insurance deduction on their individual tax return.
The S corporation will then be subjected to the $100-per-day penalty per shareholder who was reimbursed. However, it should be noted that these market reforms do not apply to plans with “less than two participants.”
The new tax rules and market reforms are obviously in conflict with each other. For now, businesses need to weigh the potential benefits of pre-taxing or post-taxing individual coverage or subjecting themselves to a penalty of $36,500 per employee per year.
The recommendation is to stop offering reimbursement of insurance premiums for individual coverage, regardless if that reimbursement is done pre-tax or post-tax.
For full details on these penalties, check out the blog post on www.fmwfchamber.com.
Member Contribution
Business Security
888.99.ARVIG | arvig.com/business
We can show you how to protect your customers, employees, heating/cooling systems and more no matter where you are in the office or even in the middle of the night—anywhere, anytime.
32 | March 2015
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bellbanks.com | Member FDIC
Fargo Moorhead
$169,800Seattle, WA
$357,400
Denver, CO
$316,300
Baton Rouge, LA
$170,000
Rochester, NY
$128,100
Greenville, SC
$165,200
Chicago, IL
$218,000
Source: National Association of Realtors®second quarter 2014 statistics
Average Home Prices
Fargo Boasts Healthy Housing Marketing
Last month, SmartAsset.com named Fargo’s housing market is one of the 10 healthiest in North Dakota. The study examined healthy-housing indicators such as stability, risk, ease of sale and affordability. Fargo ranked sixth in the state, while Wahpeton landed in the number one spot. The entire article is available online.
fmwfchamber.com | 33
Member Mentions
If you can’t make it to Babb’s Coffee, Babb’s Coffee will come to you! They now deliver as well as offer a unique, fun, relaxing atmosphere that features coffee roasted and air-lifted fresh from Seattle each week, teas, iced summertime drinks, bagels, muffins, fruits, soups, croissant sandwiches and gourmet desserts baked fresh. Live music and poetry readings are held, and meeting space for up to 60 people is available.
Steam Masters is a true Fargo original. From humble beginnings in 1981 with one man and one van, Steam Masters has provided quality cleaning and restoration services to homes, offices, restaurants and hotels through professionalism, quality and reliability.
Nodak Mutual Insurance with Chad Iwen offers a full line of insurance, including auto, commercial, home, life, disability, health, farm and ranch, crop/hail and long-term care. Investments, mutual funds and annuities are also available.
Element Fargo 925 19th Avenue East, West Fargo, ND 58078
elementhotels.com 1 877 element
Stay close to home at Element Fargo, openingearly 2015. A LEED certified hotel, with spaciousrooms and fully socked kitchens.
To make a reservation call 1-701-478-LEED (5333)or go to elementfargo.com.
Space to live your life
©2009–2012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Element and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. For full terms & conditions visit elementhotels.com/legalcopy
34 | March 2015
GOLF ADDICTIONTHOMSEN HOMES
BIOLIFE PLASMA SERVICES
Relocation celebration on January 15 3168 41st Street South, Fargo www.thomsenhomesllc.com
One-year anniversary on January 14 4474 23rd Avenue South, Fargo www.golfaddiction.biz
Grand opening of additional location on January 22801 East Beaton Drive, West Fargowww.biolifeplasma.com
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 www.fmwfchamber.com or call Gail at 218.233.1100.
OLE & LENA'S PIZZERIABLUE DAISY BOUTIQUEGrand opening on January 9 1650 45th Street South, Suite 105, Fargo www.shopbluedaisy.com
Grand opening on January 13 3330 Sheyenne Street, #108, West Fargo www.oleandlenaspizza.com
Chamber Around Town
fmwfchamber.com | 35
March 2015 Chamber Events
Fargo Moorhead West Fargo ChamberPost Office Box 2443Fargo, North Dakota 58108-2443
www.fmwfchamber.com
Community Builders
Bridgethe
Spotlight on You | Moorhead Parks & Recreation
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YPN: Benefits of Social Media in Personal and Professional Life11:30 a.m.Baymont Inn & Suites
Women Connect: Pitching Your Idea and Getting to Yes3:30 p.m.Avalon Events Center West
Eggs & Issues7:30 a.m.Radisson Hotel
Data Breaches, Credit Card Fraud, Front Page News... Are You Next? 11:30 a.m.Holiday Inn Fargo