the bridge june 2014

June 2014 • Vol. 17, No. 10 A National Award Winning Chamber

PROUDLY SERVING MEMBERS IN FARGO, MOORHEAD, WEST FARGO, DILWORTH, CASS AND CLAY COUNTIES AND BEYOND

Business After HoursThursday, June 124:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

Corporate CupThursday, June 5

3:45 to 9 p.m.Minnesota State University Moorhead

Art of the StealWednesday, June 18

Noon to 5 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Sponsored by

Presenting Sponsor

Seminar Sponsors

Small Not-for-Profit

of the Year

Small Businessof the Year

Entrepreneurof the Year

Kory AndersonAnderson Industries

People’s Choice

Award

Businessof the Year

Congratulations to Our 2014 ChamberChoice Winners!

Young Professionals

Best Place to Work

Not-for-Profitof the Year

President's CornerDear Chamber Members,

In March and April, we held our annual membership campaign to raise awareness about The Chamber and gain new members. We welcomed 81 new organizations to The Chamber, and you can see the list on FMWFChamber.com. These new members will help us foster additional success and prosperity for our entire region.

One of those new members is Deckmasters, and for that organization, joining The Chamber came down to the opportunities

we offer to expand their business opportunities.

Showroom Manager Paul Kamrud said Chamber membership offered the company “an excellent way to meet other successful business owners and help spread our name and services. The additional advertising package being offered during the campaign motivated us to join now as we work to market our company locally in a variety of avenues, and being a Chamber member will help us achieve that goal.”

The advertising package he mentioned was donated by our campaign sponsors, KFGO and WDAY. If your organization is ever looking to refresh itself on all the benefits you are entitled to as a Chamber member, please call our office at 218.233.1100 or visit FMWFChamber.com/member_benefits. We want to make sure your company is making the most of your Chamber membership.

Speaking of sponsors, I would like to take this opportunity to thank campaign sponsors as well as the members that donated prizes to the campaign to entice people to refer organizations to join The Chamber. These generous organizations have our sincere gratitude, and I hope you will take a look at page 17 to see what companies made our successful membership campaign possible.

While we are always excited to have new organizations join our engaged membership, we also look forward to hearing from our members on what they value regarding their membership. Last month, we sent our annual membership satisfaction survey, and we anticipate learning much from the feedback regarding our programs and services. Keep an eye out for future messages regarding what we learned and how we intend to use the feedback that you, our valued members, provided to us.

Thank you for your membership,

Craig WhitneyPresident/CEOThe Chamber

Board of DirectorsBernie Dardis Indigo Signworks Board ChairDoug Restemayer D-S Beverages, Inc. Chair ElectJon Riewer Eventide Senior Living Communities TreasurerWayne Bradley Bradley Business Advisors Immediate Past ChairDoug Vang Essentia Health Director-At-LargeThomas Astrup American Crystal Sugar CompanyRenee Bourdeaux North Dakota State UniversityChuck Driscoll Red River Refrigeration, Inc. Judd Graham Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.Don Gronke State Farm InsuranceKatie Hasbargen MicrosoftNorm Leslie National Hospitality ServicesKathy Lewin City of West FargoPaul Richard Sanford HealthEdna Szymanski Minnesota State University MoorheadPaul von Ebers Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

Chamber StaffCraig Whitney President/CEOJim Parsons Vice President of Finance/OperationsJulie Doggett Information Systems AdministratorDarren Dunlop Business Development ManagerSamantha Gust Program Coordinator - Leadership FMWFJessica Lee Government Affairs & Advocacy ManagerTracy Meckler Membership Sales ManagerGail Petersen Membership Relations CoordinatorElly Peterson Program Coordinator - Young Professionals NetworkTracy 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

Committee ChairsAmbassador Public Tom Thompson Relations Vocational Training CenterAmbassador Member Jeannie Camarillo Relations Anne Carlsen CenterBusiness Training Dawn Kaiser The Village Business InstituteLeadership Fargo Jessica Shawn Moorhead West Fargo Discovery Benefits, Inc.Military Affairs Steve Blazek First International Bank & TrustPublic Affairs Jim Roers ROERSYoung Professionals Dustin Dale Network Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.

For editorial questions, please call 218.233.1100 or email [email protected].

For advertising and learning opportunity inquiries, please contact Tracy Meckler at 218.359.0527 or [email protected].

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.

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

www.colepapers.com

Strategic Objectives § Through effective public policy, foster an environment of economic growth.

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

The Art of the StealFraud & Scams Seminar

Wednesday, June 18 | Noon to 5 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center, 1635 42nd Street South, Fargo

Former con artist extraordinaire Frank Abagnale is one of the world’s most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement and secure documents. His exploits and fi ve-year international crime spree inspired the memoir, Catch Me if You Can, which later became a fi lm directed by Steven Spielberg and starred Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Between the ages of 16 and 21, Abagnale successfully posed as an airline pilot, an attorney, a college professor and a pediatrician; he also cashed $2.5 million in fraudulent checks in every state and 26 foreign countries. After serving time in the French, Swedish and U.S. prison systems, Abagnale was released on the condition that he would help the federal government, without remuneration, by teaching and assisting federal law enforcement agencies.

For more than 30 years, Abagnale has worked with hundreds of fi nancial institutions, corporations and government agencies around the world.

In this two-hour seminar, Abagnale will describe the latest protections against embezzlement, forgery, counterfeit currency, check fraud, identity theft and Internet fraud for institutions, associations and corporations. He will explain the newest crime techniques made easy by technology as well as your organization’s potential liability under the new Uniform Commercial Code.

Abagnale’s presentation will be followed by a panel of regional law enforcement experts and the Better Business Bureau who will give real-life examples of local fraud schemes and what your organization should be on the lookout for. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask these experts questions about how you can protect yourself and your business.

Business Training Seri

es

The Chamber

Registration (includes lunch)Chamber Members: $49 | General Admission: $59

Register at FMWFChamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

#FMWFTraining#FrankStealsFargo

Seminar Sponsors Corporate Table SponsorsAlerus Financial

Border States ElectricBW Insurance Agency Inc.

Cargill Global Business ServicesEide Bailly Technology Consulting

Evolution1First International Bank & Trust

Globe University

Hebron Brick Supply Co.InterceptEFT

Premier Benefi ts GroupRecord Keepers, LLC

ROERSSwanson Health ProductsWallwork Truck Center

Wanzek Construction, Inc.

ScheduleFrank Abagnale Presentation | 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Fraud Panel Discussion | 2:45 to 5 p.m.

Social Media Partner Sponsor Event Production Sponsor

Thank You, Sponsors!

2 • The Bridge | June 2014

Business TrainingThe Art of the StealFraud & Scams Seminar

Wednesday, June 18 | Noon to 5 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center, 1635 42nd Street South, Fargo

Former con artist extraordinaire Frank Abagnale is one of the world’s most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement and secure documents. His exploits and fi ve-year international crime spree inspired the memoir, Catch Me if You Can, which later became a fi lm directed by Steven Spielberg and starred Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Between the ages of 16 and 21, Abagnale successfully posed as an airline pilot, an attorney, a college professor and a pediatrician; he also cashed $2.5 million in fraudulent checks in every state and 26 foreign countries. After serving time in the French, Swedish and U.S. prison systems, Abagnale was released on the condition that he would help the federal government, without remuneration, by teaching and assisting federal law enforcement agencies.

For more than 30 years, Abagnale has worked with hundreds of fi nancial institutions, corporations and government agencies around the world.

In this two-hour seminar, Abagnale will describe the latest protections against embezzlement, forgery, counterfeit currency, check fraud, identity theft and Internet fraud for institutions, associations and corporations. He will explain the newest crime techniques made easy by technology as well as your organization’s potential liability under the new Uniform Commercial Code.

Abagnale’s presentation will be followed by a panel of regional law enforcement experts and the Better Business Bureau who will give real-life examples of local fraud schemes and what your organization should be on the lookout for. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask these experts questions about how you can protect yourself and your business.

Business Training Seri

es

The Chamber



#FMWFTraining#FrankStealsFargo

Seminar Sponsors Corporate Table SponsorsAlerus Financial

Border States ElectricBW Insurance Agency Inc.

Cargill Global Business ServicesEide Bailly Technology Consulting

Evolution1First International Bank & Trust

Globe University

Hebron Brick Supply Co.InterceptEFT

Premier Benefi ts GroupRecord Keepers, LLC

ROERSSwanson Health ProductsWallwork Truck Center

Wanzek Construction, Inc.

ScheduleFrank Abagnale Presentation | 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Fraud Panel Discussion | 2:45 to 5 p.m.

Social Media Partner Sponsor Event Production Sponsor

Thank You, Sponsors!

And the 2014 ChamberChoice Winners Are..

Last month we were honored to recognize seven winners for their outstanding contributions to our business community at the ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon. Tom Dawson of Dawson Insurance and Roger Reierson from Flint Communications, Inc., set a celebratory tone by kicking off the event followed by master of ceremonies James Cunningham, who called the event “a culmination of formidable business acumen and incredible attention to detail.” Winners in six categories were named, and the inaugural People’s Choice Award was bestowed on Rape & Abuse Crisis Center of Fargo-Moorhead after the more than 4,500 votes were tallied.

Not-for-Profit of the YearAccess of the Red River Valley

Anne Carlsen CenterCCRI, Inc.

Small Not-for-Profit of the YearTNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics

United Way of Cass-ClayYouthworks

Entrepreneur of the YearKory Anderson, Anderson Industries

Ryan Raguse and Jake Joraanstad, Myriad Mobile

Tom McDougall, High Point Networks, LLC

Young Professionals Best Place to WorkBorder States Electric

Marco, Inc.Sundog

Small Business of the YearAbsolute Marketing Group

Office Sign CompanySpectrum Aeromed

Business of the YearDiscovery Benefits, Inc.

Integreon Managed SolutionsPark Co. Realtors

Presented by

Award Sponsors Spotlight SponsorsBremer Bank, N.A.

Eide Bailly LLPEnventis

Essentia HealthGate City Bank

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Corporate Table SponsorsAlerus Financial

American Federal BankAnderson Industries

Bank of the WestBell State Bank & Trust

Bethany Retirement LivingBorder States Electric

ByteSpeedCass County Electric

Cooperative Inc.Choice FinancialCornerstone Bank

D-S Beverages, Inc.Discovery Benefits, Inc.

Evolution1Games Galore Party Rental

H2MHannaher’s, Inc.

Heartland Trust CompanyInterceptEFTJLG Architects

KLJMoore Engineering, Inc.

North Dakota State UniversityOffice Sign Company

OnsharpROERS

Starion FinancialTecton Products LLC

TMI HospitalityU.S. Bank

Vistage International

Event Production Sponsor

This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors. Thank you!

The FinalistsThe organization or individual with a star next to their name are the winners in each category.

June Spread.indd All Pages 5/23/14 9:41 AM

Business Training

Customer journey mapping involves examining your organization from a bird’s eye view to truly understand how your customer experiences your company at various points along the way. By doing so, you can identify areas for improvement and highlight where your organization shines when it comes to the customer’s experience. Andrea Morrow, direct marketing strategist for Flint Communications, Inc., will help you understand how to truly assess the entire experience a customer or prospect has with an organization and explain a few sample journey maps. By understanding the touch points your customers or prospects experience as well as their expectations, you can provide a more positive experience. Learn how to identify:

§ Components of your customer experience ecosystem and ways to assess the quality of key customer interactions.

§ People, processes, policies and technologies that affect key customer pain points.

§ Root causes of customer experience problems and learn to resolve them.

Customer Journey Mapping: Improve Your Customer Experience

Wednesday, July 9 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Hilton Garden Inn Fargo, 4351 17th Avenue South

Registration (includes lunch)Chamber Members: $25 per person in advance | $35 at the doorGeneral Admission: $45 per person in advance | $55 at the door


Business Training SponsorsSupporting Sponsors

Bell State Bank & Trust Eventide Senior Living Communities

Hilton Garden Inn Fargo NetWork Center, Inc.

Starion Financial

Program Sponsors

701.282.8195 | marconet.comConnect with Marco — your trusted technology advisor.

MEET YOUR LOCAL FARGO TEAMWhen it comes to designing, implementing and supporting the most innovative technologies for your business, you can count on your local team at Marco. Our sales, service and support team consists of the most highly trained, extremely dedicated people in the industry. We do everything we can to match you up with the right technology and keep it running smoothly.

Audio/Video Systems • Business IT ServicesCopiers/Printers • Document Management Managed Services • Phone Systems

Dan P� epsen, Kevin Spaulding, Heather Swanson, Adam Suchan


2014 Health Care SummitTuesday, July 22 | 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Holiday Inn Fargo, 3803 13th Avenue South



Presenting Sponsors

Social Media Partner Sponsor

Is your business subject to the Affordable Care Act’s employer responsibility provision? More than 90 percent of employers are not, but those that are may face steep penalties for noncompliance.

Make sense of this and more at this half-day summit, which will be kicked off by former lieutenant governor, Dr. Betsy McCaughey. She’s read every page of the health care law and expertly dissects it by explaining it in plain English.

Once McCaughey has wrapped up, you can attend a variety of breakout sessions that will help you understand how to navigate the complexities of ever-changing health insurance landscape.

ScheduleNoon - Keynote Address

Betsy McCaughey

1:15 to 2:15 p.m. - Breakout SessionsBreakout #1:

Health Insurance Industry Panel: Navigators, Grandfathers, Mandates and More

Moderator: Ross Manson, Principal, Eide Bailly LLP Panelists: Ruth Krystopolski, Sanford Health Plan Representative from Medica Health Plans Representative from Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

Breakout #2: Worksite Wellness Strategies that Work

Moderator: Pete Seljavold, Director, Healthy North DakotaPanelists: Diana Barta, KLJ Laurie Lundstrom and Tammy Enright,

Spectrum Aeromed Linda Otterson, Cass County Electric Cooperative, Inc.

2:30 to 3:30 p.m. - Breakout SessionsBreakout #3:

“We’ve Got a Plan Panel” for Employers with 50+ EmployeesModerator: LeAnn Moos, PHR, Fargo Moorhead Human Resource

Association Panelists: Jeffry Volk, Moore Engineering, Inc. Sarah Koustrup,

National Hospitality Services LLC Alisson Partee, Integrity Windows

Breakout #4: Challenges, Questions and Decisions

Unique to Small EmployersModerator: Ross Manson, Eide Bailly LLPPanelists: Luther Stueland,

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Jim Nyhof, Dawson Insurance

3:45 to 5 p.m. - Closing PanelResponding to the Transformation of Health Care

Moderator: Ross Manson, Eide Bailly LLPPanelists: Dr. Joshua Wynne, UND Medical School Ruth Krystopolski, Sanford Health Tim Sayler, Essentia Health

June Bridge.indd 1 5/23/14 10:44 AM

Young Professionals Network

YPN Program Sponsors

Upcoming EventsHappy Hour

Wednesday, June 18 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.Moorhead Country Club, 2101 River Drive North

Free, no registration required.

Golf season is finally here! Join us for some socializing, networking and golf putting fun at the Moorhead Country Club for the YPN June Happy Hour. You may bring your own golf clubs or clubs will be available for use. If the weather cooperates, we will be able to enjoy the beautiful outdoors on the putting green. Appetizers will be provided, but drinks are on your own nickel.

Networking to Business Lunch: Professional Relations: Family, Friends and Networks

Wednesday, June 25 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Cambria Suites, 825 Beaton Drive East

$ 20 YPN Member | $30 General Admission Have you ever had one of your friends or family members turn into a business client? Ethical practices in professional relationships are important to keep in mind, but what happens when friends or family become professional relationships? Come listen to Mike Meagher, Sagency LLC, and Kara Jorvig, MAC’s Inc., give us some tips on how to deal with those evolving relationships.

One to WatchEach month, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) highlights a member who is making a name for him or herself in the business community. The complete profile is online and published in Making Connections, an electronic newsletter distributed to the YPN.

Kate Draxten, Director of Sales at Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

Draxten has a passion for people, so she loves that her job involves working on business relationships and meeting new people on a daily basis. She’s in the business of service excellence, and

she strives to ensure the reputation of the Courtyard by Marriott proceeds itself.

A few years ago, Draxten would have said the snow was her favorite part of living in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community, but this past winter changed her mind. What hasn’t changed is the warmth and friendliness of the people here, and that’s something Draxten is thankful for all year.

Read more about Draxten online at FMWFChamber.com/YPN/onetowatch.

Looking for Corporate Cup Results?

Our July issue will have the full wrap-up including which teams took home the trophies, as well as some fun photos from the event; make sure you get your copy! Can't wait that long? Check our website in the weeks following the

event to see the full results.


Military Matters

Presenting Sponsor

Program SponsorsBeverage Wholesalers, Inc.

First International Bank & Trust MicrosoftU.S. Bank

Military Affairs Sponsors

Register for the Camp Ripley ExperienceThursday, June 19

Spend the day in the boots of a member of the Minnesota Army National Guard as they conduct their annual training at Camp Ripley. This behind-the scenes, VIP opportunity will provide Honor Star members with a unique perspective and appreciation for the members of our Armed Forces.

Free for Honor Star Members | $60 for Chamber MembersRegistration is limited so sign up today for this unforgettable experience. Register at FMWFChamber.com.

Salute to Chamber Honor Star MemberCongratulations to Wayne Shields and Advanced Auto Body & Glass for receiving the Air National Guard’s Hometown Hero Salute medallion. Air National Guard unit members receive the medallion in recognition of their service during a deployment. Airmen often pass the medal onto someone who has supported them in serving their country. The medal was presented to Shields and Advanced Auto Body for the way they treated the airman while he was in uniform and brought his vehicle in for work. The Chamber is proud to hear stories of our Honor Star members doing all they can to support our service members.

Still Time to Contribute to USS ND

In April, the US Navy announced the commissioning ceremony of the USS North Dakota, scheduled to take place in May in Groton, Connecticut, was being delayed. Although the new date for the ceremony has not been set, there is still time to support the nuclear powered submarine or host our model replica at your business.

Once operational, the USS North Dakota will be the Navy’s most technologically advanced warship. With new technologies come new challenges, but The Chamber and the USS North Dakota’s many supporters stand prepared to celebrate its commission once it is deemed ready to serve our country around the world.

To request the USS North Dakota replica contact Jessica Lee at [email protected].

chamber military appreciation night at

the redhawks Tuesday, July 8 | 7:02 p.m.

Cost is $8 and includes a ticket to the game and $3 in RedHawks Bucks. Th e 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. Th ree diff erent sponsorship levels are available.

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

grand slam sponsor

home run sponsors

fargo

moorh

ead west fargo ch

amber

honor star

Honoring Our Service Members

FMWFChamber.com • 9

Advocacy in ActionChamber Holds Candidate Forums

The Chamber hosted candidate forums for three contested municipal elections to address the important issues our elected officials will be responding to as community leaders. Forums were held with candidates for the Fargo city commission, Fargo mayoral race and West Fargo city commission. Special thanks to our moderators, Roger Reierson, Flint Communications; Mark Western, Nilles Law Firm; and Bernie Dardis, Indigo Signworks.

Chamber Opposes Proposed Conservation MeasureThe Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Board of Directors voted unanimously to oppose the Clean Water, Wildlife and Parks Measure petition currently being circulated in North Dakota.

The constitutional measure would commit an estimated $300-$400 million per biennium into a new fund and mandates 75 percent of the funds to be spent at the end of the biennium, regardless of whether projects are warranted.

“The Chamber is on record in support of responsible environmental stewardship. We supported the creation of the Outdoor Heritage Fund, which was passed by legislature in 2013 to address these types of concerns,” said Chamber President and CEO Craig Whitney. “This pro-posal is way too expensive and could have significant negative impacts on agriculture, economic development, education and taxes.”

For more information on the proposal visit ndcommonsenseconservation.com.

Minnesota Legislative Session Wrap-UpSenator Kent Eken, along with Representatives Ben Lien and Paul Marquart provided Chamber members an in-depth recap of the Minnesota Legislature’s “unsession” of 2014. Moderated by long-time Moorhead public servant Morrie Lanning, the event featured a review successes and challenges of the legislative session, which included a litany of benefits for border cities. Beth Strinden Kadoun, director of tax and fiscal policy for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, noted lawmaker’s accomplishments such as repealing the business-to-business taxes and vowed to continue to work to roll back the burden on Minnesota businesses during the upcoming session.

Sponsored by


Statewide Ballot Measure – HCR 3034A concurrent resolution to change the filing deadlines for the submission of initiated measure petitions from 90 days to 120 days before a statewide election and provide that challenges to decisions of the secretary of state regarding measure petitions must be filed with the Supreme Court no later than 75 days before the election.

West FargoWest Fargo Mayoral Candidate

(one seat, four-year term)Incumbent Rich Mattern

West Fargo City Commission Candidates (two seats, four-year term)

Incumbent Duane Hanson Bradley Olson

Incumbent Mark Wentz

West Fargo Park Board Candidates(three seats, four-year term)

Incumbent Jeff McCracken Incumbent Sharon Odegaard

West Fargo Sales Tax IncreaseCity leaders in West Fargo anticipate more than $120 million of infrastructure projects that need to be constructed during the next 20 years. Additional revenue of the sales tax is expected to reduce the reliance on special assessments and utility rate increases on projects necessary in all areas of the city. The sales tax is projected to yield approximately three million dollars per year. To approve the 1 percent increase for infrastructure projects, voters must also approve a change in the city charter.

Advocacy in ActionElection Day is June 10

Municipal general elections and statewide primaries will be held on June 10. State law requires voters to show identification that includes residential address and date of birth. To be eligible to cast a ballot in North Dakota, a voter must meet the following qualifications:

1. Must be a US citizen.2. Must me at least 18 years old.3. Must be a resident of North Dakota.4. Must have resided in the precinct for at least 30 days preceding the election.

For a complete list of races, more information about voting or to find your polling location, visit www.vip.sos.nd.gov.

Cass County CommissionTwo candidates from each district who earn the most votes in the June primary, each with a minimum of 300 votes, advance to the November 4 election. Commissioners are elected by a county-wide vote, but must live in their respective district.

Cass County Commission District #2 Candidates(one seat, four-year term)

Dawn Morgan Rick Steen

Cass County Commission District #4 Candidates(one seat, four year term)

Arland RasmussenJustin Vega

FargoFargo Mayoral Candidates

(one seat, four-year term)Incumbent Dennis Walaker

Brad Wimmer

Fargo City Commission Candidates

(two seats, four-year term, elected at-large, top vote-getters win seats)

Vern Bennett Mara Brust

Tony Gehrig Incumbent Timothy Mahoney

Dave Piepkorn John Strand

Scott Wagner

Fargo School District #1 Candidates

(four seats, four-year term)Tyler Jon Anderson

Jennifer BensonIncumbent Linda Boyd

Scott DahmsIncumbent Dinah Goldenberg

Teri-Lee C JamesAhmed Kamel

Rebecca KnutsonMarty Livingood

Brian MartinDavid Paulson

Fargo Park Board Candidates(three seats, four-year term)

Joe DeutschRick FlacksbarthMary C JohnsonMatt MagnessTerry Waltz


Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo2013-14 Leadership Fargo Moorhead

West Fargo Class GraduatesNearly 40 business professionals concluded the Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo program with an opportunity to reflect on their accomplishments and growth to help inspire them to further enhance professional results. Tamara Anderson, team performance strategist with Dale Carnegie Business Group of North Dakota, led the session. A graduation luncheon and program at Bluestem Center for the Arts followed.

Congratulations and thank you to the participants of this year’s Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class.

LFMWF Program Sponsors


Leadership Fargo Moorhead West FargoGust Hired to Lead Leadership Program

In April, Samantha Gust joined the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber staff as Program Coordinator for Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo. Gust is responsible for working with the LFMWF committee to plan and implement the annual leadership program.

Gust graduated from the University of North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. Before coming to The Chamber, she worked as the community and evaluation specialist for a nonprofit called Community Violence Intervention Center in Grand Forks.

Gust saw the opportunity to work a leadership program outside of higher education and quickly realized the rare chance. “I’m excited to get to learn even more about the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area and get to meet a great group of people who are all interested in the expansion and well-being of our communities,” she said.

When she isn’t at work, Gust enjoys cooking, baking, antique shopping, going to concerts and spending as much time with friends and family, which includes her parents, who live in East Grand Forks. She also keeps busy by serving on the planning committee for Relay for Life.

In the May issue of The Bridge, we printed a photo that was incorrectly labeled as Brie Corfman, one of our 2013-14 Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo participants. We also spelled her last name incorrectly. We apologize for the mistakes and congratulate Corfman on her accomplishment of completing the leadership program.


Chamber Challenge Golf Outing & SocialWednesday, July 16 | 12:30 p.m.

Edgewood Golf Course, 19 Golf Course Avenue North, Fargo

Four-person team spots are sold out. Hole sponsorships are still available. Call 218.233.1100 to reserve a sponsorship or to be put on the waiting list.

Thank You Sponsors(as of publication date)

Leader Board Sponsors Beverage Cart SponsorWanzek Construction, Inc.

Snack Cart SponsorsEnventis

InterceptEFT

Tee Box Sponsors702 Communications

Avis Rent A CarBank of the West

Candlewood Suites Fargo @ NDSU

Cellular Communications, Inc.

Choice FinancialDFC Consultants, Ltd.

D-S Beverages, Inc.Essentia Health

Eventide Senior Living Communities

Fargo Jet CenterFirst International

Bank & TrustGlobe University

Mortenson ConstructionNetWork Center, Inc.

Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

Stoneridge SoftwareTravelodge Winnipeg East

Hole SponsorsArvig

Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc.Eide Bailly LLP

Moore Engineering, Inc.VOLT Workforce Solutinos

Western State Bank

Valet Sponsor Driving Range Sponsor

NO FEES (with 1,000 or fewer items monthly)

America s Best Free Checking™

FOR BUSINESS!

Switch from FEES . . .

to NO FEES with . . .

bellbanks.com | Member FDIC

Fed up with business banking fees?

Call me to find out how you can lower your business banking fees!

6228

Warren Hilde Business Banker 701.298.1504


$100 Savings for Chamber MembersUntil August 31, 2014, reference this ad and receive $100 off Digital Marketing Discovery

Does Your Digital Marketing Need a Jump Start?

onsharp.com | 701.356.9010 | #OnsharpJumpStart

How big should my Facebook community be? Should I be using hashtags? Do I need to redesign my website? Where do I start? How do I know if it’s working? How do I get there faster?

If your digital presence is in need of a spark, #TeamOnsharp can help. As your partner, we’ll help you accelerate your strategy by adapting to your specific needs and providing strategies, tools, and tips to help you reach your goals faster.

Our Digital Marketing Discovery process is designed to help you:

Compare your digital footprint to your peers/competitors

Identify your top digital marketing priorities

Define your measures of success

Welcome to Our New Community Builders!The Chamber is proud to introduce two new Community Builders in our Premier Partner program.

Heritage Homes, LLC, has been building dreams and homes in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo since 1995. The staff works closely to ensure each home built meets a client’s goals, budget and needs. The company is also the area’s only licensed Woman-Centric home builder. Heritage Homes joined The Chamber in 1998.

TMI Hospitality is an innovative development and property management company. What began as a small hotel franchising company has evolved into a hospitality industry leader that manages nearly 200 hotels in 26 states. TMI Hospitality employees dedicate themselves to offering an impressive experience to all guests. The company joined The Chamber in 1998.

What is a Premier Partner?Premier Partners are the companies who give beyond their initial membership dues to invest in Chamber programs.

The investment also brings a distinct array of membership benefits. Contact Darren at 218.359.0514 or [email protected] to learn more. Turn to the back page to see all our Community Builders.


Members Get It!Member Pop-Ins

Visto’s Trailer Sales offers a variety of products, prices, service, parts and trailers to meet specific needs. Do you need a customized unit? Special parts or accessories? Their service and parts department can help.

Grazies Italian Grill uses the best ingredients to make from scratch food that is true to the Italian spirit. These principles allow Grazies to treat their guests to a dining experience similar to those you’d find in Italian neighborhoods in cities like New York and Chicago.

West Fargo Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary medical facility that provides medical care, surgical care and dental care for highly valued pets. The hospital is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for clients.

Committee Chair Profile The Member Relaitons committee serves as the member retention arm of The Chamber, assisting with retention of member firms as well as special events designed to promote member involvement. Member Relations ambassadors help retain members through personal contact, information, encouragement and support.

Jeannie Camarillo, associate development director with the Anne Carlsen Center, has served as the Member Relations committee chair for two years.

What have you enjoyed most about serving as committee chair for the Member Relations committee?

Member Relations has changed its focus a couple of times in the last couple of years. We evaluated the committee’s goals and implemented a process to support and increase The Chamber’s member retention.

What is one thing you would like other people to know about the Member Relations committee? We get to build a relationship with businesses for two years so you really get to know them. The value of this committee far outweighs our volunteer time; the opportunity to network and speak one on one with business owners is invaluable.

What do you believe is the greatest benefit of serving as a Member Relations ambassador for The Chamber?I have been able to network with the businesses plus the committee members. I feel connected to this community, know what is happening, what is new and continue to learn as the community grows. You stay in the know!

You choose.


Congratulations Membership Campaign Prize Winners!

We would like to thank all our members who provided referrals during our annual membership campaign. Our great members are the best way to find other great members. Thanks again for your support!

membersgetit!

Sponsored by Sponsored by

Sponsored by








$1000 Wine Package awarded to Julie Halvorson, Newman Signs

Kindle Fire HD awarded to Nicole Birnbam, Radio FM Media

Kindle Fire HD awarded to Annette Ambuehl, BW Insurance Agency, Inc.

One night stay at The Lady Slipper Bed and Breakfast awarded to Shawn Dobbstein, Municipal Airport Authority - Hector International Airport

Microsoft Surface awarded to Jeannie Camarillo, Anne Carlsen Center

iPad awarded to Taya Spelhaug, NDSCS - Fargo

Ramada Night on the Town package awarded to Julie Yourczek, The Chamber

Pandora bracelet awarded to Michelle Byrum, Cornerstone Bank

1-hour simulator rental and cooler on wheels awarded to Darren Dunlop, The Chamber

Best Buy gift card awarded to Julie Doggett, The Chamber

Nook HD awarded to Lynn Hanson, Artco Promotional Products, Inc.

Four weeks of advertising in Talking Points newsletter awarded to Jay Nelson, Keller Williams Roers' Realty

Golf day for two awarded to Brian Heger, 702 Communications

Party package awarded to Michelle Durensky, Elle Hair

Night out downtown awarded to Carmen Hoefts, Carmen’s Gardens

Full page ad awarded to Dan Hurder, Monte’s Downtown

Pandora bracelet awarded to Elly Peterson, The Chamber

potlightmediaS

Bradly Business Advisors


Member ProfileSpreading Health and Happiness Through

Community Supported AgricultureBluebird Gardens can trace its roots back to 1978 when Mark and Diane Boen had only a tiller, some acres of land and a dream — to raise vegetables and fruit for people. For 30 years, the literal fruits of their labor were sold at roadside stands until they discovered the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model that involved people becoming members of the farm in order to receive produce.

The model requires members to sign up for a share that fits best with their needs during the 20-week season; shares are based on family size and include:

§ Family share (family of four) § Share (family of two) § Mini-share (family of one) § Double family share (family of eight) § Juicing share

In addition, Mark Boen added, CSA members can attend a variety of harvest events to further personalize what they receive through their membership. One of the best parts about harvest events is the excitement. “Kids get so excited to see where their food comes from,” Boen said. “Harvest events are a great opportunity for our members to make food memories with their families.”

That type of connection is what drives Boen in his daily work — he wants people to connect with farming, with each other and with nutritionally dense food that will keep them healthy. Keeping the food nutritionally dense involves adding nutrients to the soil to create the perfect growing environment for the fruits and vegetables, known as biological farming.

Connecting with members is easy during the summer; boxes are delivered each week to designated drop-off sites and harvest events bring hundreds of people to the farm on an ongoing basis. What Boen focuses on is maintaining that connection in the winter through email communication; he also sends a weekly email during the harvest season to explain to members what is in the weekly box as well as growing tips and interesting recipes for the items. Last year, a personal chef blogged about how she used her items, and this year, members can participate in best recipe contests for a discount on next year’s membership.

Boen said Bluebird Gardens is constantly evolving and shaping its offerings to maximize member experience. “The goal is that our farm becomes their farm,” Boen explained. That is why boxes are only delivered to within an hour of the farm, and why harvest events are flexible and accommodating to even the busiest schedules. “People are busy, so we’re open 7 days a week during harvest events to make it possible for our members to come,” he said.

That type of flexibility is what helps bring new members to Bluebird Gardens. Last year, more than 2,100 members enjoyed fresh fruits and vegetables from the farm, and Boen hopes to hit 2,500 soon. More members means more opportunities to connect—with farming, food and each other. “Last fall, a member at a harvest event said this (farm) is like a big family,” Boen said. “And it is. CSA is like one big family.”

To learn more about how to become a member of Bluebird Gardens and biological farming, visit bluebirdgardens.net.

Entrepreneurs Wanted

Put your ideas to work. We help entrepreneurs and start-ups

in high-tech industries gain a foothold

and move onto solid financial and

operational ground. For established

companies, we help advance

their research and development

initiatives. Programs include:

research and technology Park

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT NDSU RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PARKwww.ndsuresearchpark.com | 701.499.3603 [email protected]

• Technology innovation, commercialization, licensing and joint venture opportunities

• Entrepreneur Development - comprehensive business assistance, market research, educational events, mentoring and networking

• Financing, venture capital and strategic partnerships

• Access to talent


Member ProfileCreating Community

Through Culture and Recreation

The first word that comes to mind when describing the staff of the Fargo Park District? Passionate. When talking with Roger Gress, executive director of the Fargo Park District, and two of his department directors, you can’t help but want to share in the excitement they have for our community.

In addition to all the amenities the park district already offers, they have plans to add a new baseball/softball complex this summer, creating an additional 12 playing fields. They are also working on nine new parks and three additional nature conservatories to add to their 2,000 acres of existing green space

The park district does a lot more than just maintain green spaces in Fargo. Carolyn Boutain, director of cultural activities, talked about some of the many programs the park district holds year-round: block parties, the Butterfly Ball and outdoor movie nights. This year, the park district will be expanding their block parties to include 11 neighborhoods. The parties provide a free venue for neighbors to connect and spend time outdoors.

The Butterfly Ball, which took place at the beginning of April, sold out all three nights in a matter of days. The ball is a formal father-daughter dance for girls, ages 4-12. It’s a great opportunity for fathers to connect in a special way with their daughter.

Clay Whittlesey, director of recreation, shared some of his programming highlights, including two programs he thinks every child in the metro should take: swimming lessons and hunter safety. Whittlesey said that while both programs are fun, they are also vital for encouraging safe habits and in some instances, saving lives.

The park district makes accessibility for all community members a priority, from special programming for new Americans to scholarships that help pay programming fees for families who wouldn’t be able to afford them without assistance.

Running such a robust schedule of programming couldn’t be done without good working relationships with the neighboring park districts in West Fargo and Moorhead, as well as the schools, city governments and community partners. “We couldn’t do these things without collaboration,” Gress said.

To see a full list of upcoming events and to register, visit www.fargoparks.com.

2,000Acres ofGreen Space

16Fall &Winter

SpecialEvents

13Pools

69�Average SummerTemp

11�Average WinterTemp

56Spring &Summer

Special Events

44Baseball& SoftballFields

90Miles ofTrails

4DogParks

Facts


The Art of the StealWednesday, June 18 | Noon to 5 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center, 1635 42nd Street South

Frank Abagnale, former con artist extraordinaire, with panel discussion to follow.

Registration (includes lunch) Chamber Members: $49 per person in advance | $59 at the door General Admission: $59 per person in advance | $69 at the door

Mark Your CalendarsJuly 9 Customer Journey Mapping: Improve Your Customer Experience Andrea Morrow, Flint Communications, Inc.

August 7 Change, Challenge, Charles (Darwin) Cole Carley, Cole Carley Communicates

MIL

ITA

RY

AFF

AIR

S

Honor Star Camp Ripley ExperienceThursday, June 19 | 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead, 1080 28th Avenue South, Moorhead

Honor Star members will have an opportunity to spend a day with Minnesota National Guard members as they conduct their annual training at Camp Ripley, a 53,000-acre regional training facility. This full-day excursion kicks off at 7:30 a.m. when the bus departs for Camp Ripley and is packed with exciting experiences.

CA

NC

ELL

ATIO

NS

CancellationsDue to costs incurred and commitments made to vendors, the deadline to cancel a registration and/or to receive a refund will be no later than noon one week prior to the event for booth registrations and noon the day prior to the event for individual registrations. Any cancellations received after those deadlines will be billed whether or not the participant attended. If the event or meeting is canceled by The Chamber due to insufficient registration, act of nature or other reason beyond its control, a refund or credit on account will be provided for any paid registrations.

YOU

NG

PR

OFE

SSIO

NA

LS N

ET

WO

RK

Corporate CupThursday, June 5 | 3:45 to 9 p.m.Minnesota State University Moorhead, 1104 Seventh Avenue South

Corporate Cup is a series of competitive events promoting physical fitness and friendly competition among the business community. Teams will battle for points in activities such as basketball, rock climbing, tug of war and more. The event is open to all employees and fitness levels. Teams are currently sold out.

YPN Happy HourWednesday, June 18 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.Moorhead Country Club, 2101 River Drive North

Golf season is finally here! Join us for some socializing, networking and golf putting fun at the Moorhead Country Club for the YPN June Happy Hour. Free, no registration required.

YPN Networking to Business LunchWednesday, June 25 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Cambria Suites, 825 Beaton Drive East$ 20 YPN Member | $30 General Admission

Mike Meagher, Sagency LLC, and Kara Jorvig, MAC’s Inc., will offer tips on how to deal with situations that evolve from personal friendship to professional relationships.

BU

SIN

ESS

AFT

ER

HO

UR

S

Business After HoursThursday, June 12 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead, 1080 28 Avenue South

Business After Hours is a members-only event, participants must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Receive the $22 admission price by registering by midnight on June 11. All registrations received after that time and at the door will be billed the $32 rate. Includes appetizers and two drink tickets.

Mark Your CalendarsAugust 14 Holiday Inn Fargo Sponsored by Spotlight Media Inc.

October 16 Hilton Garden Inn Fargo Sponsored by Heritage Homes

December 4 Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center Sponsored by Avis Rent A Car and Bernie’s Wines & Liquors

Calendar of Chamber Events SPONSORS

Program Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

Co-Sponsored by


The Art of the StealWednesday, June 18 | Noon to 5 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center, 1635 42nd Street South

Frank Abagnale, former con artist extraordinaire, with panel discussion to follow.

Registration (includes lunch) Chamber Members: $49 per person in advance | $59 at the door General Admission: $59 per person in advance | $69 at the door

Mark Your CalendarsJuly 9 Customer Journey Mapping: Improve Your Customer Experience Andrea Morrow, Flint Communications, Inc.

August 7 Change, Challenge, Charles (Darwin) Cole Carley, Cole Carley Communicates

MIL

ITA

RY

AFF

AIR

S

Honor Star Camp Ripley ExperienceThursday, June 19 | 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead, 1080 28th Avenue South, Moorhead

Honor Star members will have an opportunity to spend a day with Minnesota National Guard members as they conduct their annual training at Camp Ripley, a 53,000-acre regional training facility. This full-day excursion kicks off at 7:30 a.m. when the bus departs for Camp Ripley and is packed with exciting experiences.

CA

NC

ELL

ATIO

NS

CancellationsDue to costs incurred and commitments made to vendors, the deadline to cancel a registration and/or to receive a refund will be no later than noon one week prior to the event for booth registrations and noon the day prior to the event for individual registrations. Any cancellations received after those deadlines will be billed whether or not the participant attended. If the event or meeting is canceled by The Chamber due to insufficient registration, act of nature or other reason beyond its control, a refund or credit on account will be provided for any paid registrations.

YOU

NG

PR

OFE

SSIO

NA

LS N

ET

WO

RK

Corporate CupThursday, June 5 | 3:45 to 9 p.m.Minnesota State University Moorhead, 1104 Seventh Avenue South

Corporate Cup is a series of competitive events promoting physical fitness and friendly competition among the business community. Teams will battle for points in activities such as basketball, rock climbing, tug of war and more. The event is open to all employees and fitness levels. Teams are currently sold out.

YPN Happy HourWednesday, June 18 | 5:15 to 7:30 p.m.Moorhead Country Club, 2101 River Drive North

Golf season is finally here! Join us for some socializing, networking and golf putting fun at the Moorhead Country Club for the YPN June Happy Hour. Free, no registration required.

YPN Networking to Business LunchWednesday, June 25 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Cambria Suites, 825 Beaton Drive East$ 20 YPN Member | $30 General Admission

Mike Meagher, Sagency LLC, and Kara Jorvig, MAC’s Inc., will offer tips on how to deal with situations that evolve from personal friendship to professional relationships.

BU

SIN

ESS

AFT

ER

HO

UR

S

Business After HoursThursday, June 12 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead, 1080 28 Avenue South

Business After Hours is a members-only event, participants must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Receive the $22 admission price by registering by midnight on June 11. All registrations received after that time and at the door will be billed the $32 rate. Includes appetizers and two drink tickets.

Mark Your CalendarsAugust 14 Holiday Inn Fargo Sponsored by Spotlight Media Inc.

October 16 Hilton Garden Inn Fargo Sponsored by Heritage Homes

December 4 Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center Sponsored by Avis Rent A Car and Bernie’s Wines & Liquors

Program Sponsors

Co-Sponsored by

SPONSORSCalendar of Chamber EventsProgram Sponsors

Supporting SponsorsBell State Bank & TrustEventide Senior Living

CommunitiesHilton Garden Inn Fargo

NetWork Center, Inc.Starion Financial

fargo

moorh

ead west fargo ch

amber

honor star

Honoring Our Service Members


Member Contribution Reminder: E-Cigarettes Follow Same Law

as Regular Cigarettes in North DakotaFargo Cass Public Health would like to remind e-cigarette users and North Dakota businesses that e-cigarettes are prohibited in all places where smoking is not allowed under the law; and that smoking is prohibited outside within 20 feet of entrances, exits, operable windows, air intakes and ventilation systems of an establishment where smoking is prohibited by law. Also, smoke-free signs must be posted at all entrances to indoor public places and places of employment including where smoking is not allowed. Examples of public places and places of employment include, but are not limited to, the following: restaurants, bars, truck stops, hotels and motels, health care facilities, long-term and assisted living centers and licensed adult day care facilities.

Fargo Cass Public Health Tobacco Prevention Coordinator Holly Scott said they have been receiving reports of violations of the use of e-cigarettes in businesses in Cass County. “There seems to be confusion about indoor use of electronic cigarettes in ND. The law is clear: use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, is prohibited in the same locations as smoking is,” Scott said. “The confusion could stem from the fact that the MN smoke-free law does not include electronic cigarettes.”

The fine for not complying with the law by an owner, manager, or person of general supervisory responsibility of an establishment is not to exceed $100 for the first violation, not to exceed $200 for a second violation within one year and not to exceed $500 for each additional violation within one year of the preceding violation.

To assist the public and businesses with the transition into the smoke-free law, Fargo Cass Public Health has educational resources and complementary signage available for local businesses. In addition, links to downloadable signage templates and educational resources are available at fargocasspublichealth.com/tobacco.

Fargo Cass Public Health also has information and tools for those wanting to quit their tobacco use. We recognize that smoking is a difficult addiction, and urge compassion and support for smokers. To help combat the addiction, tobacco users can visit www.ndhealth.gov/ndquits or call 1.800.QUIT.NOW (1.800.784.8669). For more information about the smoke-free law, contact Fargo Cass Public Health at 701.241.8576.


Member Contribution How To Fuel “Word-Of-Mouth” Marketing

Ask a small business owner what their primary means of attracting customers is, and they’ll likely reply “word-of-mouth.” While it is true that consumers rely heavily on recommendations from friends and family, waiting around for your customers to spread the word about you is not a marketing strategy.

Instead of passively hoping for customer recommendations to take place, you need your products and services to be worth talking about. Getting there is easier than you think.

Here’s how you do it:

Write out every single step of your sales process (customer calls in, sets up an appointment, service is performed, billing, etc.) Once you have a complete list, you need to build three simple things into each one: reliability, surprise, and recovery.

1. Reliability: Ensure your processes are as efficient as they can be (if the phone rings, answer it). Design the delivery method to avoid and anticipate potential problems. This step is about identifying and simply meeting expectations.

2. Surprise: Have you ever recommended a brand of ketchup to someone? Of course not. People don’t talk about ketchup because ketchup is boring. It does exactly what you expect and nothing more. You need to deliver an unexpected extra. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; this is about having several small ‘wows’ throughout the experience. Once you’ve identified the expectations above, you need to find a way to exceed those expectations just a small amount.

3. Recovery: Don’t be surprised by a bad customer experience; anticipate what can go wrong and have a plan in place to make it right. If you leave your frontline workers scrambling to address a disappointed customer, you’re unlikely to turn that experience around.

Sound simple enough? Now go through and make sure that these three concepts are built into every step of your customer’s experience that you outlined at the beginning. If you break down your sales process and apply reliability, surprise, and recovery into each step you will be taking a proactive approach in generating word-of-mouth marketing and encouraging repeat business.

Clayton Kraby is a marketing manager for Pedigree Technologies. Follow him on Twitter: @ClayKraby

Save Money Save Time

P TF

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO SWITCH TOMIDCONTINENT

BUSINESS SOLUTIONSTM?

So easy, you’ll only notice the improvement.At Midcontinent Business SolutionsTM we’re the experts

at delivering custom phone, data and video for our customers. We’re also experts at making the switch painless.

We do the legwork up front, then make the transition during your non-peak times, so other than faster data

and more reliable service, you won’t notice a thing.

Learn more about the benefits of switching. Call 1.800.888.1300 or visit midcontinent.biz

> PHONE > DATA > VIDEO > TELEVISION ADVERTISING


Breyer Collins

Correction: We accidentally ran the wrong photos for Breyer and Collins of AAA North Dakota in our May issue of The Bridge. We apologize for the mistake.

Donna Breyer, a senior travel agent, received a Premier Performer Award for leisure travel sales, and Kim Collins, territory manager for North Dakota and Nebraska, received the

President’s Elite Award, the highest level of recognition for managers in the AAA club.

Stattelman

Nick Stattelman, surveyor at Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc., earned the status of Certified Federal Surveyor (CFedS). The CFedS program was designed specifically to enhance the level of knowledge and expertise in the professional land surveying community for survey work performed on federal lands.

Colter

DJ Colter, American Family Insurance – DJ Colter Agency, Inc., was named District 386 agent of the month. He received the honor for outstanding sales of American Family Insurance products during the month of April.

Helpful Tips for Employers Outsourcing Their PayrollMany businesses streamline their operations by outsourcing payroll duties to third-party service providers, but the IRS reminds employers that they are ultimately responsible for paying federal tax liabilities.

Recently, individuals and companies acting under the guise of a payroll service provider have stolen funds intended for payment of employment taxes and have been prosecuted for the crime. That’s why employers who outsource payroll should be aware of the following three tips from the IRS:

1. Employer Responsibility: The employer is ultimately responsible for the deposit and payment of federal tax liabilities despite forwarding payments to a third party to make the tax deposit. If the third party fails to make the federal tax payments, the IRS may assess penalties and interest, but the employer is liable for all taxes, penalties and interest due. The IRS can also hold you personally liable for certain unpaid federal taxes.

2. Correspondence: If there are any issues with an account, the IRS will send correspondence to the address of record. Do not change the address of record to that of the payroll service provider; that could limit your ability to stay informed of tax matters involving your business.

3. Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS): Choose a payroll service provider that uses the EFTPS because you can register on the system for your own PIN to verify the payments.

For more information on the responsibilities of employers outsourcing payroll, payroll service providers and EFTPS, visit www.irs.gov.

More Than 30 Companies Treat TeamsIn April, 32 companies brought their teams to The Chamber’s annual Treat Your Team Luncheon, an event held in conjunction with Administrative Professionals Day. Nearly 200 people dined on fare provided by Mezzaluna, and attendees were also treated to an exclusive handout regarding a new Chamber youth entrepreneurial program to be launched in the near future.

Young Professionals Learn What Is Beyond the Blue LinksLast month, The Chamber hosted an event for YPN members called Beyond the Blue Links. Chamber Board of Directors, staff members and volunteers discussed new initiatives The Chamber is working on and ways for young professionals to become more involved. Many YPN members left feeling much more educated about the great opportunities available to them through The Chamber. Be sure to watch for upcoming events to learn more about The Chamber or visit FMWFChamber.com.


What’s New with You? We’re pleased to offer our congratulations to the following individuals and organizations for their accomplishments.

Breyer Collins

Correction: We accidentally ran the wrong photos for Breyer and Collins of AAA North Dakota in our May issue of The Bridge. We apologize for the mistake.

Donna Breyer, a senior travel agent, received a Premier Performer Award for leisure travel sales, and Kim Collins, territory manager for North Dakota and Nebraska, received the

President’s Elite Award, the highest level of recognition for managers in the AAA club.

Stattelman

Nick Stattelman, surveyor at Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc., earned the status of Certified Federal Surveyor (CFedS). The CFedS program was designed specifically to enhance the level of knowledge and expertise in the professional land surveying community for survey work performed on federal lands.

Colter

DJ Colter, American Family Insurance – DJ Colter Agency, Inc., was named District 386 agent of the month. He received the honor for outstanding sales of American Family Insurance products during the month of April.

Bundy

Sarah Bundy was hired as preparedness and recovery manager for the American Red Cross – Red River Valley Chapter. Bundy earned a Ph.D. in emergency management from North Dakota State University, a masters’ degree in international affairs from Norwich University and a bachelor’s degree in government from the United States Coast Guard Academy.

Bartelt Bellefeuille Brilz Dvorak

Gange Hermanson Szafranski Thornton

Kristi Bartelt was hired as a recruiter and training specialist; David Bellefeuille was hired as SMT operator; Janet Brilz was hired as a manufacturing assembler; Kavin Dvorak was hired as an internal tools developer; Bernell Gange was hired as a manufacturing assembler; Derick Hermanson was hired as a software engineer; Mike Szafranski was hired as a manufacturing engineer; and Laura Thornton was hired as a supply management specialist for Appareo Systems. Bartelt earned her associates degree in human resources from Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Bellefeuille served in the US Navy as an electronic technician and became a chief of sonar advanced COTS submarine maintenance technician. Brilz has more than 20 years of experience in manufacturing. Dvorak graduated from North Dakota State University in May with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Gange is currently working toward her degree from Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Hermanson earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Szafranski earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University. Thornton earned her associates degree in liberal arts from North Dakota State College of Science and her bachelor’s from North Dakota State University emphasizing in manufacturing technology/industrial engineering.

Applied Engineering, Inc., acquired Quiet Waters Engineering of Ottertail, Minnesota, in a strategic move to increase capabilities and efficiencies to serve their collective customers, which are mostly located throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Texas.

Rizzo

Joseph Rizzo was hired as a developer for Beyond Shelter, Inc. Rizzo has more than 19 years of experience in the residential mortgage and finance industry.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, along with Flint Communications, was named a finalist for the 2014 Silver Anvil by the Public Relations Society of America. Only 156 of the 843 organizations who submitted applications were selected as finalists.


Gary Hedin

Dana Gary was hired as a commercial lines account manager, and Brandi Hedin was hired as a commercial lines producer for Dawson Insurance. Gary has been working for 27 years in the insurance industry. Hedin has more than seven years of sales experience.

Smith Stolle

Rachel Mitchell hired as administrative assistant; Michael Smith hired as reimbursement senior manager; and Nicole Stolle hired as administrative assistant for Eide Bailly LLP. Mitchell is a graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead. Smith has a master’s degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Stolle attended the University of Montana.

Bohanna Hanel Ronken Cossette

Stolpman Yonke

Brian Bohanna, Adam Hanel and Lorin Ronken, Eide Bailly LLP, attained Cisco certifications. Bohanna received the Cisco SMB Specialization for Engineers and Account Managers. Hanel received the Cisco SMB Specilization for Engineers. Ronken received the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician certification. Ronken also attained certification

in Lenovo Hardware & Support in both desktop and notebook systems. Brian Bohanna, Ryan Cossette, and Nick Stolpman, Eide Bailly LLP, achieved CompTIA certifications; and Kari Yonke, also of Eide Bailly, received the Certified Search Consultant designation from the American Staffing Association.

Wayne Stack, Eide Bailly LLP, received a Patriot Award nomination. Stack was recognized for positively contributing to national security by supporting his employee’s participation in the National Guard and Reserve Force.

Essentia Health is providing patients with a new option to battle liver cancer. TheraSphere works by inserting millions of beads filled with radioactive material directly into liver tumors. When the beads make their way to the tumor, they destroy it from the inside out.

Manickaavasagam

Dr. Saraswathy Manickavasagam (Dr. Sara Mani) has joined the cardiac electrophysiology department at Essentia Health’s Heart and Vascular Center. Dr. Mani earned a medical degree from Trivandrum Medical College at the University of Kerala Trivandrum in Kerala, India.

Fargo Cass Public Health received $389,503 to build local substance abuse prevention infrastructure to combat underage drinking and adult binge drinking. This funding is granted under the federal Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant, through the North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse.

www.indigosignworks.com

Indigo Signworks’ headquarters is located at:1622 Main Avenue | Fargo, ND 58103701.297.9696 | [email protected] locations in Bismarck, Grand Forks & Minot, ND and Alexandria & St. Cloud, MN

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

Express Graphics

Matt Ahonen was hired as a business banker for Bremer Bank. Ahonen has more than 10 years of banking and financial services experience and will work with business clients in the Moorhead area.

Brown & Saenger was awarded with the 2013 top growth award at the NeXus 2014 joint TriMega and INTEC show. Brown & Saenger was recognized for the greatest dollar growth.

Beneke Cronin Ebensteiner Farkas

Granlund

Matt Beneke was promoted to deposit and eservices specialist; Becky Cronin was promoted to director of transaction services; Amy Ebensteiner was hired as frontline customer service representative; Seth Farkas was promoted to loan assistant; and Chris Granlund was hired as credit analyst at Choice Financial. Beneke joined Choice Financial in 2012. Cronin and has been with Choice Financial since 2006 serving in various roles. Ebensteiner brings eight years of experience serving customers.

Farkas joined Choice in April 2013. Granlund brings nearly six years of finance/accounting experience.

Choice Financial earned the top place in SNL Financial’s ranking of the top-performing community banks of 2013 with assets between $500 million and $5 billion. Choice Financial recorded double-digit loan growth bolstered by its acquisition of Great Plains National Bank.

Lund Mastera Sharpe

Breezie Lund was hired as administrative assistant; L. Peyton Mastera was hired as city administrator; and Ty Sharpe was hired as the police chief for the City of Dilworth. Lund brings 16 years of administrative professional experience. Mastera previously

worked for the City of Murray, Kentucky, with a primary focus in city planning, grant administration and project management. Sharpe has more than 20 years experience in law enforcement.

Andrea Eide was hired as credit administration specialist at Cornerstone Bank. Eide has been working with Cornerstone Bank on the Accuaccount conversion.

Narveson

Paul Narveson was named commercial glass manager at Fargo Glass and Paint Company. Narveson has a background in construction, including fourteen years spent in commercial glass and glazing.

Toy

Michael Toy was named chief operating and strategy officer at First International Bank & Trust. Toy began his career at First International Bank & Trust in 2007.

FirstLink received $1,000 from the Milton and Evelyn Larson Fund of the Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation.

Nolte

Caleb Nolte was hired as project assistant for G & R Controls. Nolte holds a construction management degree from North Dakota State University.

Bertschi Duberowski

Barb Bertschi was promoted to senior vice president of retail banking, and Scott Duberowski was promoted to office manager at Gate City Bank. Bertschi has been employed at Gate City Bank for 18 years and was most recently the bank’s office manager for the West Fargo Market. Duberowski has worked at Gate City Bank since 2009 and was previously the office manager of the Alexandria location.

Gate City Bank donated more than $173,000 from January through March to organizations across North Dakota and western Minnesota as part of its ongoing commitment to support local communities and causes.

High Point Networks earned a ShoreTel® partner customer experience award. ShoreTel partners specialize in delivering ShoreTel’s solutions portfolio and training and supporting end-customers.

Seter

Curt Seter was named development officer for Hospice of the Red River Valley. Seter was previously employed by Minnetonka Public Schools as a special education teacher.

Schuer

Chris Otterness and Jeff Lansink were named stockholders, and Heidi Schuer was hired as marketing coordinator at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI) Otterness, PE, is a native of Wisconsin and is a graduate of the University of Minnesota. Lansink, PE, has been responsible for numerous transportation projects for HEI throughout the past 11 years. Schuer received her bachelor’s degree in mass communications from North Dakota State University.


Gary Hedin

Dana Gary was hired as a commercial lines account manager, and Brandi Hedin was hired as a commercial lines producer for Dawson Insurance. Gary has been working for 27 years in the insurance industry. Hedin has more than seven years of sales experience.

Smith Stolle

Rachel Mitchell hired as administrative assistant; Michael Smith hired as reimbursement senior manager; and Nicole Stolle hired as administrative assistant for Eide Bailly LLP. Mitchell is a graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead. Smith has a master’s degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Stolle attended the University of Montana.

Bohanna Hanel Ronken Cossette

Stolpman Yonke

Brian Bohanna, Adam Hanel and Lorin Ronken, Eide Bailly LLP, attained Cisco certifications. Bohanna received the Cisco SMB Specialization for Engineers and Account Managers. Hanel received the Cisco SMB Specilization for Engineers. Ronken received the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician certification. Ronken also attained certification

in Lenovo Hardware & Support in both desktop and notebook systems. Brian Bohanna, Ryan Cossette, and Nick Stolpman, Eide Bailly LLP, achieved CompTIA certifications; and Kari Yonke, also of Eide Bailly, received the Certified Search Consultant designation from the American Staffing Association.

Wayne Stack, Eide Bailly LLP, received a Patriot Award nomination. Stack was recognized for positively contributing to national security by supporting his employee’s participation in the National Guard and Reserve Force.

Essentia Health is providing patients with a new option to battle liver cancer. TheraSphere works by inserting millions of beads filled with radioactive material directly into liver tumors. When the beads make their way to the tumor, they destroy it from the inside out.

Manickaavasagam

Dr. Saraswathy Manickavasagam (Dr. Sara Mani) has joined the cardiac electrophysiology department at Essentia Health’s Heart and Vascular Center. Dr. Mani earned a medical degree from Trivandrum Medical College at the University of Kerala Trivandrum in Kerala, India.

Fargo Cass Public Health received $389,503 to build local substance abuse prevention infrastructure to combat underage drinking and adult binge drinking. This funding is granted under the federal Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant, through the North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse.

Narveson

Paul Narveson was named commercial glass manager at Fargo Glass and Paint Company. Narveson has a background in construction, including fourteen years spent in commercial glass and glazing.

Toy

Michael Toy was named chief operating and strategy officer at First International Bank & Trust. Toy began his career at First International Bank & Trust in 2007.

FirstLink received $1,000 from the Milton and Evelyn Larson Fund of the Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation.

Nolte

Caleb Nolte was hired as project assistant for G & R Controls. Nolte holds a construction management degree from North Dakota State University.

Bertschi Duberowski

Barb Bertschi was promoted to senior vice president of retail banking, and Scott Duberowski was promoted to office manager at Gate City Bank. Bertschi has been employed at Gate City Bank for 18 years and was most recently the bank’s office manager for the West Fargo Market. Duberowski has worked at Gate City Bank since 2009 and was previously the office manager of the Alexandria location.

Gate City Bank donated more than $173,000 from January through March to organizations across North Dakota and western Minnesota as part of its ongoing commitment to support local communities and causes.

High Point Networks earned a ShoreTel® partner customer experience award. ShoreTel partners specialize in delivering ShoreTel’s solutions portfolio and training and supporting end-customers.

Seter

Curt Seter was named development officer for Hospice of the Red River Valley. Seter was previously employed by Minnetonka Public Schools as a special education teacher.

Schuer

Chris Otterness and Jeff Lansink were named stockholders, and Heidi Schuer was hired as marketing coordinator at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI) Otterness, PE, is a native of Wisconsin and is a graduate of the University of Minnesota. Lansink, PE, has been responsible for numerous transportation projects for HEI throughout the past 11 years. Schuer received her bachelor’s degree in mass communications from North Dakota State University.

Houston Engineering, Inc., along with BNSF Railway Company and Minneapolis-based TKDA, received the Outstanding Engineering Design award from the North Dakota Society of Professional Engineers. The award recognized the BNSF Devils Lake Subdivision Track Raise project.

Vangsness

Don Vangsness was hired as lead developer for Implementation Specialists, Inc. Vangsness has 20 years of experience including, software engineer/development.

Schenatzki

Elizabeth Schenatzki was named production specialist at John Deere Electronic Solutions.

Flom

Beau Flom was named 2013 Rookie of the Year at Keller Williams Roers' Realty.

Marco, Inc. was named the Cisco 2013 Central Area Small to Medium Business Partner of the Year. The award was presented to Marco for taking a leadership position in implementing unified communications and cloud networking systems amongst other Cisco technologies.

Bitz

Kari Bitz was hired as the non-credit program coordinator at NDSU Distance and Continuing Education. Bitz graduated from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication.

NetWork Center, Inc. was named to CRN’s annual list of the Tech Elite 250. These companies represent an elite group of IT solution providers that have invested in the training and education needed to earn the most advanced technical certifications from leading vendors.

Ascheman

Larry Ascheman, John Deere Tech and Diesel Technology associate professor at the North Dakota State College of Science, was awarded the National Postsecondary Agricultural Student Organization (PAS) Outstanding Advisor Award. The award recognizes advisors/instructors at local postsecondary institutions who have gone above and beyond in contributing to and making the PAS organization worthwhile and special to both students in agriculture and fellow PAS members.


Gladen Peterson Priebe Schuler

The following North Dakota State College of Science faculty and staff were awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award for demonstrating competence and sincere interest in their subjects, present material in a suitable, well-integrated fashion and encourage participation from students: Ruth Gladen, nursing associate professor; John Peterson, diesel technology associate professor; Sybil Priebe, English and humanities associate professor; and Charlotte Schuler, social and behavioral assistant professor.

Meyer Pauly Pellman

The following North Dakota State College of Science faculty and staff were awarded the Meritorious Service Award for consistently going above and beyond every day and exemplify the college’s values of learning, integrity, flexibility and excellence:

Chelsie Meyer, distance education administrative secretary; Samantha Pauly, information technology services enterprise systems coordinator; and Susan Pellman, facilities management building services technician.

North Dakota State University’s Center for Professional Selling and Sales Technology was named a top sales programs on a new list prepared by the Sales Education Foundation. The center is an associate member in the University Sales Center Alliance, a consortium of university sales centers dedicated to advancing the sales profession via teaching, research and outreach. The center is the only member within North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho.

Chrystal Deringer was named head volleyball coach at Park Christianson School. Deringer competed as a student-athlete at North Dakota State University from 1994-97.

Goldader

Angie Goldader was hired as a sales associate at Park Co. Realtors. Goldader earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Minot State University.

Park Co. Realtors was named to the RISMEDIA Top 500 Power Broker Report, an annual research report ranking the top 500 brokerages in the United States. Park Co. Realtors ranked 417 in closed transaction sides and 490 in closed sales volume among and was the only North Dakota real estate company identified the report.

Kautzman

Blaise Kautzman joined Preference Personnel as an industrial staffing consultant.

IT Consulting

Network Security

Web/App Development

Mobility Solutions

PremierBusinessPartner

To learn more about NetWork Center, Inc. visit www.netcenter.net/NCIvideos

Toft

Kathleen Toft, Spherion Staffing, was recognized nationally at Performance Forum as a top recruiter. Each year, Spherion recognizes one recruiter across the nation for exceptional performance.

Berg

Spherion Staffing in North Dakota and West Central Minnesota, led by Jill Berg, president and owner, was named top franchise for outstanding performance in 2013. Criterion for qualification includes consistent sales growth and profitability over the past three years and a diverse business portfolio.

Wickham

Mike Wickham was named business banking officer at Starion Financial. Wickham has more than 11 years of experience in the banking industry.

Larson

Frank Larson, founder of Starion Financial, received the Greater North Dakotan Award. The award is the Greater North Dakota Chamber’s highest honor and was presented to Larson in acknowledgement of the business and philanthropic impact he has had on the state of North Dakota.

Stoppler

Kathy Stoppler was hired as a closing agent for TRN Abstract & Title. Stoppler has been in the mortgage industry for 20 years and has been a closing agent for the past two years.

Holkesvig

Greg Holkesvig was hired as a land surveyor in land services at Ulteig. Holkesvig has more than 16 years of experience in land surveying.

Hendrickson

Jason Hendrickson, assistant parts manager at Valley Imports, Inc., was honored for his service to The Outdoor Adventure Foundation. The foundation provides outdoor adventures to children and young adults with life-threatening illness, as well as to combat-disabled Veterans that have lost a limb or are wheelchair bound.

For the second year in a row, Valley Imports Volkswagen has been named the Midwest Region’s Top Volume Select Dealer. There are 21 dealers in the Midwest Region vying for this award based on total retail sales and population base.


Toft

Kathleen Toft, Spherion Staffing, was recognized nationally at Performance Forum as a top recruiter. Each year, Spherion recognizes one recruiter across the nation for exceptional performance.

Berg

Spherion Staffing in North Dakota and West Central Minnesota, led by Jill Berg, president and owner, was named top franchise for outstanding performance in 2013. Criterion for qualification includes consistent sales growth and profitability over the past three years and a diverse business portfolio.

Wickham

Mike Wickham was named business banking officer at Starion Financial. Wickham has more than 11 years of experience in the banking industry.

Larson

Frank Larson, founder of Starion Financial, received the Greater North Dakotan Award. The award is the Greater North Dakota Chamber’s highest honor and was presented to Larson in acknowledgement of the business and philanthropic impact he has had on the state of North Dakota.

Stoppler

Kathy Stoppler was hired as a closing agent for TRN Abstract & Title. Stoppler has been in the mortgage industry for 20 years and has been a closing agent for the past two years.

Holkesvig

Greg Holkesvig was hired as a land surveyor in land services at Ulteig. Holkesvig has more than 16 years of experience in land surveying.

Hendrickson

Jason Hendrickson, assistant parts manager at Valley Imports, Inc., was honored for his service to The Outdoor Adventure Foundation. The foundation provides outdoor adventures to children and young adults with life-threatening illness, as well as to combat-disabled Veterans that have lost a limb or are wheelchair bound.

For the second year in a row, Valley Imports Volkswagen has been named the Midwest Region’s Top Volume Select Dealer. There are 21 dealers in the Midwest Region vying for this award based on total retail sales and population base.

Stock

Katie Stock, LMT, joined the Venture Chiropractic team as a massage therapist. Stock has been a licensed therapist since 2006.

Meier Stark Trochman

Chris Meier, Chad Stark and Byron Trochman have been named as members of the Wells Fargo Advisors’ Premier Advisors Program, a distinction that reflects their achievement of professional success by meeting or exceeding Wells Fargo

Advisors’ high standards as measured by one or more of the firm’s criteria for revenue generation, educational attainment and client-service best practices.

Coronato Holaday Jendro Kommer

Naas Reome Riegel Schwarz

Liz Coronato was hired as a part-time customer care banker; Cindy Holaday was promoted to customer care banker; Mary Jendro was promoted to customer care banker; Michelle Kommer was hired as chief administrative officer/general counsel; Marcie Naas was hired as a customer care banker; Mara Reome was hired as a customer care banker; Matthew Riegel was named assistant vice president/customer care manager; and Josh Schwarz was hired as a credit analyst at Western State Bank. Coronato has more than six years of customer service experience. Holaday has been with Western since 2002, serving as a customer service representative. Jendro served as a personal banking officer/good neighbor club co-director in West Fargo since 2006. Kommer previously served in executive leadership positions at Noridian Healthcare Solutions/BlueCross BlueShield of North Dakota and Otter Tail Corporation. Naas has more than 15 years of customer service experience and more than five years of banking experience. Reome has more than a year of banking experience in a call center environment and more than six years of customer service experience. Riegel has more than 13 years of customer service and banking experience. Schwarz has more than nine years of experience in the banking industry, previously serving as business development manager at Deere Employees Credit Union.

Western Products donated 12 wall-mounted, flat-panel televisions to the Ronald McDonald House of the Red River Valley. The TVs will be installed in homes run by the non-profit throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Schell

Andrew Schell was hired as an audit associate for Widmer Roel PC. Schell has a bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University.


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

Abode Decor & Gift4340 13th Avenue SouthwestFargo, ND 58103701.238.5422 www.shopabodedecor.comRetail StoresBobbi BrickerRecruiter: Carmen Hoefs, Carmen’s GardensAbode Décor & Gift is a locally owned home decor and gift store in the TJ Maxx Plaza. Along with home decor, Abode sells jewelry, handbags and other accessories. Audio Garage2012 First Avenue South Moorhead, MN 56560218.284.5365 http://theaudiogarage.netSound SystemsNick Paulson Recruiter: Michelle Byrum, Cornerstone Bank For the past 10 years, Audio Garage has been offering quality service and installation for auto starts, window tinting and custom audio and video systems for anything from a boat to a vehicle to even a golf cart. Audio Garage Fargo5257 51st Avenue South Fargo, ND 58104701.353.7266 http://theaudiogarage.netSound SystemsNick Paulson Recruiter: Michelle Byrum, Cornerstone Bank For the past 10 years, Audio Garage has been offering quality service and installation for auto starts, window tinting and custom audio and video systems for anything from a boat to a vehicle to even a golf cart.

Azure Construction Inc.2045 52nd Street South Fargo, ND 58103701.893.8741 www.azureconstructioninc.comConstruction ManagementBrian AzureWith more than 20 years of experience, Azure Construction Inc. has been providing roofing, siding and home improvement services to Fargo and the surrounding areas. Our licensed contractors perform professional quality work for a reasonable price, working with all insurance companies to simplify the claims filing process and save you the hassle.

Bailey’s PDR Inc.3302 Fourth Avenue South, Suite A Fargo, ND 58103701.730.3368 www.baileyspdr.comAutomobile Repair - ServiceKevin BaileyBailey’s PDR provides Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) services for door dings, hail damage and minor collisions. They service dealerships, body shops and any vehicle owner. They do not sand, apply bondo or paint. They are locally owned and trusted, with a lifetime warranty backing their work. Bed Bath and Beyond 4340 13th Avenue South, Suite 1 Fargo, ND 58103 701.282.0222 www.bedbathandbeyond.com Retail Stores Cheri Stegman Recruiter: Julie Doggett, The Chamber Sells goods primarily for the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, dining room and beyond.

Blackbird Woodfire Pizza206 Broadway NorthFargo, ND 58102701.478.1968 www.blackbirdwoodfire.comRestaurantsCasey AbseyRecruiter: Jay Nelson, Keller Williams Roers’ Realty Locally owned and operated, Blackbird Woodfire provides woodfire pizza, salads and small plates, using locally produced ingredients.

The Boiler Room210 Broadway North, Suite 90 Fargo, ND 58102701.478.1990 www.boilerroomfargo.comRestaurantsPaul McMahonFull-service bar, restaurant and private dining in the heart of downtown Fargo. Enjoy scratch cooking and classic cocktails in our basement lounge or our alley patio.

Bolton & Menk Inc.4165 30th Avenue South, Suite 100 Fargo, ND 58104701.566.5339 www.bolton menk.comEngineeringBarry GlienkeRecruiter: Elly Peterson, The Chamber Provides professional services to meet the needs of municipalities. During the past 65 years, the firm has provided a broad range of engineering, planning, environmental and surveying services to more than 250 communities and agencies throughout the upper Midwest. Boulevard Square I, LLC745 31st Avenue East West Fargo, ND 58078701.852.3045 Real Estate - Commercial/IndustrialRuby RauReal estate ownership and management as well as general business purposes. Their multi-purpose buildings consist of approximately 15,000 square feet of commercial retail space and 36 apartment units. Boulevard Square II, LLC745 31st Street Avenue East, Suite 101 West Fargo, ND 58078701.852.3045Real Estate - Commercial/IndustrialRuby RauReal estate ownership and management as well as general business purposes. Their multi-purpose buildings consist of approximately 15,000 square feet of commercial retail space and 36 apartment units.

Buyer at Large18 Eight Street South Fargo, ND 58103701.566.8776 www.buyeratlarge.comRetail StoresChristine JaegerSpecializes in unique and meaningful gifts for every taste and personality.


Carmen’s Gardens2600 52nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58104701.371.0879 facebook.com/CarmensGardensFargoGreenhousesCarmen HoefsIn addition to offering specialty plants like succulents, miniatures and water plants, the store offers a wide variety of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and hanging baskets. Carpet Mill Club, Inc.2402 Seventh Avenue North Fargo, ND 58102701.293.8738 www.showcasefloorsfargo.comFloor CoveringsJeremiah JohnsonFull-service retail flooring showroom for commercial and residential spaces.

Cloud 9 Salon & Day Spa3330 Sheyenne Street, Suite 100 West Fargo, ND 58078701.277.9772 www.cloud9salonanddayspa.comSpa Services - Beauty & DayRebecca WoodRecruiter: Michelle Durensky, Elle HairFull-service salon and spa that offers bridal and spa packages including custom spray tanning, airbrush make up and more.

DalyWorks LLC1445 Fifth Avenue North Fargo, ND 58102701.219.3323 www.dalyworks.comConsultants - ManagementSean DalyDalyWorks provides logistics management consulting. From a single document or box needing domestic overnight service to a container of finished goods heading for foreign markets, DalyWorks has the resources to fit your needs.

Drekker Brewing Company630 First Avenue North, Suite 6 Fargo, ND 58102952.232.9801 www.DrekkerBrewing.comBeverages - Wholesaler - DistributorsMark BjornstadDestination craft brewery with a taproom located in downtown Fargo. Element Fargo925 19th Avenue East West Fargo, ND 58078701.281.9500 Hotels - MotelsDave Schultz Element Realty4610 Amber Valley Parkway South, Suite E Fargo, ND 58104701.478.3390 www.elementrealtyfm.comReal EstateNick OlsonRecruiter: Lynn Hanson, Artco Promotional Products, Inc.

Elle Hair3330 Sheyenne Street, Suite 100 West Fargo, ND 58078701.361.8636 Beauty Salons & BarbersMichelle DurenskyElle Hair offers Halo Couture Extensions that are the finest quality Remy hair to add luscious volume and length without damaging clips or glue. It is one piece that fits temple to temple with a selection of 20 colors and four lengths. Flatland Guitar and Lutherie, LLC1623 University Drive South Fargo, ND 58103701.205.3627 www.flatlandguitar.comMusic StoresPaul HvidstenFlatland Guitar and Lutherie is an authorized Taylor dealer/repair center specializing in acoustic guitar sales and offer repair service on all fretted instruments. The store also offers all parts and accessories your guitar may need. Freya Salon and Suites3140 Bluestem Drive West Fargo, ND 58078701.532.3222 www.freyasalonandsuites.comBeauty Salons & BarbersNikki WitteFreya is 10 single suites where you can have personal attention from getting your haircut, to getting a pedicure/manicure, massage and/or facial. They also provide spray tanning, eyelash and hair extensions. And, when you get hungry, Freya Nutrition is located in the back, ready to serve you.

Office/Retail Sites – 3 Lots Remain

§ Ready-to-Build – Zoned, Light Commercial § Adjacent to Microsoft’s Campus,

Woodhaven Plaza, DCN, Swanson Health, Shotwell Floral and Kennedy Elementary

§ Lots from 52,585 to 310,113 Square Feet § Includes Regional Storm Water Retention

Commercial Expertise. Service Excellence. TM

40th Street South and 40th Avenue South

WOODHAVEN PLAZA ADDITION

Matt Durbin Konrad Olson www.konradolson.com

701-‐280-‐1606


Go Promo1137 Sommerset PlaceWest Fargo, ND 58078701.261.6625 www.justgopromo.comAdvertising - Promotional ProductsCasey GlandtRecruiter: Taya Spelhaug, North Dakota State College of Science Fargo Go Promo sells custom apparel and promotional items to businesses and schools at the best prices around. The company can put your logo on pretty much anything or create a logo for you. Grizzly’s Wood Fired Grill3333 Highway 10 East Moorhead, MN 56560218.233.3110 http://grizzlysgrill.com/moorhead-mnRestaurantsChris ImpolaGrizzly’s Wood Fired Grill is the place for wood fire food, friends and family.

Hammers Construction, Inc.1712 Main Avenue Fargo, ND 58103701.367.6950 www.hci mn.comConstruction ManagementClark HagenRecruiter: Dan Hurder, Monte’s DowntownHammers Construction are builders first and foremost, offering first class construction services such as design/build, construction management and general contracting to provide turnkey project deliveries.

Home Federal Bank4650 38th Avenue South, Suite 120 Fargo, ND 58104 800.244.2149 www.homefederal.comFinancial InstitutionsBrent WersingerFounded in 1929, Home Federal Bank operates dozens of banking centers in South Dakota and Minnesota. The commercial lending office in Fargo expands the company’s reach into North Dakota.

HotSpring Spas & Pool Tables 21620 13th Avenue East West Fargo, ND 58078701.364.3725 www.fargohotspring.comPools - Spas - SaunasJeremy BingerAuthorized local dealer for HotSpring Spas, Olhansen pool tables, Finnleo saunas, splash above ground pools and Tropitone outdoor furniture; offering only the best for the Fargo Moorhead area.

Imperial Flooring3306 Sheyenne Street West Fargo, ND 58078701.281.6440 www.imperialflooringdesign.comFloor CoveringsAaron JohnsonImperial Flooring is a start-to-finish store. Experienced and creative staff will help you with the vision you have for your home.


Indian Triumph of Fargo2745 Main AvenueFargo, ND 58103701.277.4584 www.indiantriumphfargo.comMotorcyclesTari BirkeloIndian Triumph provides motorcycle parts, sales, service, apparel and accessories. Featured brands include Indian and Triumph, and there’s a bike here for every rider and style. They service most makes with a preference of model year 1990 and newer. Matt’s Automotive Service Center Fargo Location3307 Main Avenue Fargo, ND 58103701.478.3838 www.mattsautoservicecenter.comAutomobile Repair - ServiceKelly GrowMatt’s Automotive is the area’s premier full-service automotive and diesel maintenance and repair facility. With two locations serving the community, the company continues to strive for excellence. Max Lounge1410 Ninth Street East, Suite 501 West Fargo, ND 58078701.356.7464 Night Clubs - BarsNicolette BergeThe Max Lounge is the new FM hot spot. The lounge offers a comfortable, alluring atmosphere, affordable small plates and quality beverages. It’s the perfect place for an after work cocktail or to meet up with friends for a night to enjoy live entertainment.

Midwest Aquarium Services745 45th Street South, Suite F Fargo, ND 58103701.680.3990 www.midwestaquariumservices.comPet Supplies - ServicesJohn EasterdayMidwest Aquarium Services is the FM area’s premier provider of marine aquarium livestock, supplies and services. The store has everything you need to setup, maintain, stock and feed your marine aquarium.

Doug Mjolsness Construction, Inc.11557 Highway 10 Glyndon, MN 56547701.361.0254 www.mjolsnessconstruction.comContractors - GeneralKarleen MjolsnessDoug Mjolsness Construction has been building custom homes to fit homeowner needs in the FM area for more than 30 years with homes in the range of $250,000 to $1,000,000. MODE4302 13th Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103701.478.9969 www.shopmodestore.comRetail StoresCiara StockelandHome of the $40 designer jean! MODE is a vibrant retail store with a unique concept and proven retail operation. The exclusive franchise allows access to purchase designer clothing at deep discounts.

Moorhead Electric, Inc.3451 University Drive South Fargo, ND 58104701.364.5678 www.moorheadelectric.comContractors - ElectricalRich RossMEI is a full-service electrical, technologies and underground contractor specializing in commercial, industrial and institutional construction. Additional services include: professional engineering and design build services, BIM modeling, prefabrication and maintenance. NAWIC National Association of Women in Construction No. 246P.O. Box 763 Fargo, ND 58108-0763218.234.6633 www.nawicfm246.orgAssociationsAmy BergNAWIC is an Association for women employed in the construction industry and helps to advance the causes of all women in construction, from tradeswomen to business owners.

The Otter Lodge306 Highway 78th North Otter Tail, MN 56571218.367.2525 www.ottersupperclub.comHotels -MotelsPatty WambachThe Otter Supper Club and Lodge is the place to be all summer long with full-service restaurant, bar and liquor store and hotel. The lodge is located 10 miles south of Perham on Hwy 78.

Precision Tune Auto Care2101 University Drive South Fargo, ND 58103701.461.7313 www.precisiontune.com/fargondAutomobile Repair -ServiceBryce DerouinLocally owned, family-run business that offers more than 30 years of full automotive repair experience, with ASE Master Certification and GM world class certified. The company is committed to complete customer satisfaction. Qi Shiatsu Therapeutic Massage1612 Tom Williams Drive South, Suite B Fargo, ND 58104605.310.2733 www.qishiatsund.massagetherapy.comMassage TherapyJessica WilsonRecruiter: Brian Heger, 702 CommunicationsQi Shiatsu Therapeutic is a licensed massage therapist that provides unique and highly therapeutic Shiatsu massage. Shiatsu means “finger pressure” in Japanese, and is an acupressure style massage that addresses muscle tension and ailments at precise points, making it efficient and relaxing. Located within Xtreme Measures Fitness Facility. Riverview Family Dental100 Fourth Street South, Suite 304 Fargo, ND 58103701.235.6075 www.riverviewfamilydental.comDentistsDerek HarnishRiverview Family Dental is committed to providing the finest dental care available using state-of-the-art technology. Their passion is helping every patient make the very best decisions for their personal oral health.


Romo’s Tacos3402 13th Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103701.364.9757RestaurantsRodolfo RomoRecruiter: Jeannie Camarillo, Anne Carlsen Center Homemade nachos, quesadilla, tostados and tacos in a bag; catering is available and a portable truck will be downtown in the summer. Skateland Skate Center 3302 Interstate Boulevard South Fargo, ND 58103 701.235.0555 www.skatelandfargo.com Recreation Ann Carroll Recruiter: Darren Dunlop, The Chamber Skateland offers roller skating, private parties, birthday parties, fundraisers, discounted rates for church groups, youth groups and large groups. Skateland participates in the Summer Passport program through the YMCA.

Sky Digital Advertising3931 37th Avenue South Fargo, ND 58104701.318.1700 www.skydigitaladvertising.comAdvertisingPaul HiltSky Digital Advertising is North Dakota’s largest outdoor digital billboard network. The company gives local businesses new and innovative ways to showcase their brand with the most time sensitive and flexible form of advertising. Sola Salon3475 45th Street South Fargo, ND 58104605.881.5541 www.solasalonstudios.comBeauty Salons & BarbersSteve SchoeppSola Salon studio provides salon professionals with premium salon spaces to own their individual boutique. The concept empowers experienced hairdressers, nail stylists and skincare professionals to quickly and easily elevate their career.

Spare Key2021 Hennepin Avenue East, Suite 475 Minneapolis, MN 55413952.406.8872 www.sparekey.orgSocial ServicesErich MischeSpare Key provides rental and mortgage grants to families in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin with critically ill or seriously injured children in the hospital. Their goal is to help families “bounce and not break.”

Sungods Lash Salon1132 28th Avenue South, Suite 104 Moorhead, MN 56560701.318.2170 www.sungodstanning.netBeauty Salons & BarbersBrian AzureSungods Lash Salon specializes in semi-permanent eyelash extensions. They are eyelash extension professionals specializing in this premier service that will extend your natural eyelashes and draw attention to your eyes. All lash extensions are applied by a Certified Lash Technician. Certified and trained by E’Lan Lashes.

Sungods Tanning Salon 1617 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 701.232.5433 www.sungodstanning.net Tanning Jody Rurup Full-service tanning salon specializing in UV and mystic spray tanning and professional teeth whitening. Semi-permanent eyelash extensions are offered at their Moorhead Lash Salon. Sungods carries a full line of salon quality tanning lotions, tan extenders, sunless lotions and sprays.

Sylvan Learning Center3033 Brandt Drive South, Suite A Fargo, ND 58104701.499.4300 www.sylvanfargo.comEducation - TrainingRyan WeigelRecruiter: Julie Yourczek, The Chamber Sylvan believes in the power of education to transform children’s lives. Learning should be personal; at Sylvan, it is.

Treasure Island Coins, Inc.1429 42nd Street South Fargo, ND 58103701.282.4747 www.treasureislandcoins.comFinancial ServicesChristina PattersonTreasure Island Coins is a major dealer in precious metals. Since 1976, the company has helped thousands of people diversify and protect their wealth with gold, silver, platinum and palladium. Valley Oral and Facial Surgery3187 Bluestem Drive, Suite 4 West Fargo, ND 58078 701.235.7379 www.valleyofs.com Dental SpecialistsSadie RipleyValley Oral & Facial Surgery promises to provide their patients with the ultimate care in oral surgery by delivering the highest quality of technical care and treating patients with respect, courtesy and compassion. VoIP Value4302 13th Avenue South, Suite 4-191 Fargo, ND 58103701.540.3422 www.voipvalue.comComputer Software - ServicesSeif AbdelrahmanVoIP Value provides solutions and services for your business needs in business technology systems, call center systems, customer management software and IT integration services.


Membership Directory UpdatesPlease update your 2014 Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Metro Profile and Member Directory, as the following businesses have recently undergone change:

Former Name: Courtyard by Marriot and Moorhead Area Conference Center

Member Name: Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

Member Name: Green Street Promotions, Inc.Member Address: 1613 Main Avenue East, Suite 3, West Fargo

Member Name: One Hour Heating & Air ConditioningMember Address: 900 Page Drive South, Fargo

Member Name: ProRehab CenterMember Address: 3105 North Broadway, Suite 7, Fargo

Former Name: Tech MahindraMember Name: Tech Mahindra (Americas) Inc.

Former Name: UCareMember Name: UCare for Seniors (Medicare Advantage Plan)Member Address: 15144 360th Street, Eagle Bend, MN

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

June 2014 Community Calendar

4 Wine And Beer On The Red Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

10 Life After Breast Cancer Conference Holiday Inn Fargo

13 AARP to Present Retirement Summit Holiday Inn Fargo

18 55th Midwestern Art Invitational The Rourke Art Gallery Museum

Mark Your Calendar

State of TechnologyWednesday, August 20 | 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Ramada Plaza & Suites and Conference Center

1635 42nd Street South, Fargo

Technology is rapidly changing our world, and North Dakota continues to earn national attention for being a technological hotbed. Join us on August 20 as our speakers dive into the details of what is happening. Watch for future announcements of our full speaker line up.

Register at FMWFChamber.com or call 218.233.1100.


Learning OpportunitiesDale Carnegie Course: Skills for Success

The Dale Carnegie Course begins September 10 (which runs from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.) and September 11 (which runs from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.). This nine-week training meets one night per week and will power you to move far beyond your comfort zone as you stretch for and attain ambitious new goals. Recognized worldwide, this course will help participants master the capabilities demanded in today’s tough business environment by learning to: § Enhance public and personal communication skills.§Become a more effective leader.§Display increased levels of courage, confidence and conviction.§Control excessive stress and worry.

For additional information, call 701.476.8811 or go to www.northdakota.dalecarnegie.com.

Grow your career by preparing for the Project Management Professional ® certification

PMP certified professions are high in demand in many different industries. The University of Mary will offer PMP certification preparation classes, starting September 18 and will run on Thursday evenings through November 13. 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.

• Commercial Printing• Digital Printing• Graphic Design• Variable Data Printing• Direct Mail• Banners/Booth Displays

Business ServicesBusiness Services

196450TH ANNIVERSARY

• Docutech Printing

• Mailing Services - Mailing List Management

• Display Signage

• Promotional Products

And much more!

As we celebrate 50 years in business, J&M Printing has grown with the times and changing technological advancements. Our history in the printing industry has taught us much and combined with the varietyof flexible printing options today, we are able to offer you an impressivecollection of professional business services to make you successful.

Rich MarasRegional VP of Sales

[email protected] us or “Like” us on Twitter and Facebook

Get a Free Quote on your next project! Contact Rich or visit www.jmprint.net

4666 S. Amber Valley Parkway | www.jmprint.net | Local 701-476-0311 | Cell 701-730-1623

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

162612 J&M Bridge Ad.Final.pdf 1 12/30/13 9:15 AM


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

Chamber Around Town

HARLEY-DAVIDSON OF FARGO

SAM'S CLUB

VILLAGE INN WEST FARGO GREEN TEAM REALTY

TWIN OAKS HEALTH SOLUTIONS

CROSSFIT FARGO

Grand opening on April 24900 13th Avenue South, West Fargowww.villageinn.com

Grand opening on April 3 2800 27th Avenue South, Moorheadwww.samsclub.com

New ownership on April 4 600 Main Avenue, West Fargowww.hdfargo.com

Five-year anniversary and remodel on April 2 3301 13th Avenue South, Suite 102, Fargowww.greentmrealty.com

Grand opening on April 4 5292 51st Avenue South Fargowww.crossfitfargo.com

Grand opening on April 8 4141 31st Avenue South, Suite 105, Fargo www.twinoakshealth.com


Chamber Around Town

HORSCH LLC

INTEGREON MANAGED SOLUTIONS KARL'S TV & APPLIANCE

CAPITAL CREDIT UNION

Ground breaking on April 1447th Street and 33rd Avenue, Fargo www.integreon.com

New location celebration on April 16200 Knutson Street South East, Mapletonwww.horsch2.com

DIOCESE OF FARGOGroundbreaking on April 242820 Bluestem Drive, West Fargo www.fargodiocese.org

Grand opening on April 16 3515 West Main Avenue, Fargo www.Karlsonline.com

Remodel celebration on April 224900 13th Avenue South, Suite 5, Fargowww.capcu.org

16 South 16th Street • Fargo, ND 58103701.235.1121 • 888.526.1121 • www.knightprinting.com

This is sand,

not snow...Making it happen.

Summer...Don't blink. You might miss it!

488948_06june_kp.indd 1 4/10/14 3:40 PM


Chamber Around Town

MATT'S AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE CENTER-FARGONew location celebration April 29 3007 Main Avenue, Fargo www.mattsautoservicecenter.com

BELL STATE BANK & TRUSTGrand opening on April 3015 Broadway North, Fargowww.bellbanks.com

THOMSEN HOMESGroundbreaking for “the house that likes built” on April 29 4252 Ponderosa Place South, Fargo www.ThomsenHomesLLC.com

GOIN' POSTALGrand opening celebration on April 2519 Eighth Street South, FargoFacebook.com/goinpostaldowntownfargo

It’s for you. It’s for your people. It’s for your business.

You believe a thriving organization is only as strong as its people. You’re right. But you can’t flex those muscles without the right training, tools and time. Even the strongest among us need maintenance and motivation to keep us at the top. At VBI, we are the only organization that can custom-fit personal and professional solutions for you, your people and your business. VBI is a place you can feel good about sending yourself and your employees for help when it’s needed most.

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

www.TheVBI.com


Routing Box

June 2014 Chamber Events

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

FMWFChamber.com

Please route to:

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

Community Builders

Done with your Bridge? Pass it on! Use this routing box to share the wealth with your team members.

5 4 p.m. Corporate Cup Minnesota State University Moorhead

12 4:30 p.m. Business After Hours Courtyard by Marriot Fargo-Moorhead

18 Noon The Art of the Steal Ramada Plaza & Suites and

Conference Center

18 5:15 p.m. YPN Happy Hour Moorhead Country Club

19 7:30 a.m. Honor Star Camp Ripley Experience Camp Ripley

25 11:30 a.m. Networking to Business Lunch: Professional Relationships: Family, Friends and Networks

Cambria Suites


the bridge june 2014

Documents