August Bridge

Bernie Dardis 2017 Legacy Leader

Community Builders

Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.

AUGUST AUGUST

THE CHAMBER STAFF

PRESIDENT FROM THE a note

Why we gave Shaq the thumbs up

About a week before we announced this year’s Voices of Vision speaker, I started teasing the BIG news on Twitter. Of course, now that you’ve (probably) heard it is Shaquille O’Neal, it makes sense why we used the “big” catchphrase. Not only is Shaq literally big, but so is his name recognition, so is his persona, so are his accomplishments, and so is this news.

We’re not sure we’ve ever had so much excitement over a speaker for a Chamber event ever! We sold out floor seats within 24 hours and had to open up arena seats. Shaq’s name is so recognizable, and it’s been a joy for our Chamber staff to have this level of fun promoting something.

Of course, you also know Shaq mostly for his accomplishments in the NBA. He’s a four-time NBA Champion, 15time All Star and three-time Finals MVP. He’s played for 20 years with six teams and was named one of the most influential athletes by Forbes

The thing about Shaq is that he seems to transcend sports. It may be his first claim to fame, but now he’s proven himself as such a busy and recognizable entrepreneur that even your grandma probably knows who he is. I see him on a commercial almost every time I turn on the TV! But when I started learning more about his business accomplishments, that’s when I was really impressed. His list of accomplishments as an entrepreneur, philanthropist and family man are worthy of attention. And there are several surprises in that mix! Did you know that he owns more than 150 Five Guys restaurants, just bought a Krispy Kreme, and was an early investor in Google? I invite you to check out my column in the August issue of Fargo INC! magazine to learn more of these fun facts.

But one thing I wanted to make clear was that we decided on Shaq not because he’s another sports guy. Yes, in prior years, Joe Theismann and Terry Bradshaw graced the Voices of Vision stage.

We searched high and low for the right fit for this year’s Voices of Vision speaker. We tossed around so many names and ideas that I lost track. The one name that continued to stand out was Shaq.

I have no doubt that Shaq will not disappoint. The level of buzz over this news already is encouraging. We hope that you sign up to hear from this amazing businessman, investor, mentor and all-around star. This series has big shoes to fill, and clearly, Shaq’s size 23 shoes do just that.

What Lies Ahead for the Regional Workforce Shortage

Tuesday, August 1

7:30 to 9 a.m.

Courtyard by Marriott

Every day in our region, we have dedicated individuals trying to find effective solutions to quell the workforce shortage our region has been facing for years. This shortage is dampening future growth and opportunities for existing and new businesses. This issue isn’t one that is going to be solved overnight, but with partnerships created, programs supported and community leaders advocating for the success of our region, it is sure to be remedied.

Recently, the Fargo Moorhead Career Academy project has made headlines, and we want you to be among the first to hear the research that has gone into the development of this exciting project. Please join us to hear from a panel of experts who have been diligently working at creating partnerships and building support to help calm the skilled workforce shortage. John Richman, president of North Dakota State College of Science; Denise Jonas, Fargo Public Schools; Perry Lubbers, Trail King; and Tony Grindberg, North Dakota State College of Science; will share an overview.

REGISTRATION (includes breakfast)

Chamber Members: $30 in advance | $35 at the door

Non-Members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

FUTURE EGGS & ISSUES

Save the date! Please join us for the following Eggs & Issues events during The Chamber’s 2017-18 fiscal year.

September 6 *No event in October*

November 7

December 5

January 2

February 6

March 6

April 3

May 1 at Delta by Marriott

June 5

July 10

August 7

All events will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott in Moorhead from 7:30 to 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted. All dates are subject to change. Watch fmwfchamber.com and future newsletters for topics and speakers.

Noon

to 1:30 p.m. | SANFORD HEALTH ATHLETIC C

Prepare for Greatness

A courtside chat with Shaq

Few individuals ever become iconic enough to be known by one name—Shaq. A cultural icon, Shaquille O’Neal is best known for an NBA career spanning nearly two decades and earning him the sport’s highest honors, being named one of the most influential athletes by Forbes magazine.

But O’Neal isn’t only a legendary athlete; he has also established himself as a powerful media personality, businessman and philanthropist. He was an early investor in Google, owns a host of franchises, has numerous endorsement deals, starred in movies and TV shows, is an honorary U.S. Deputy Marshal, earned his doctorate, is a podcast host and sports analyst, partners with the Boys & Girl’s Club, and was the first celebrity to have a verified Twitter account.

Now, this larger-than-life personality is coming to the metro to share his story and advice as a seasoned businessman. You don’t want to miss this Shaqtastic opportunity.

All floor seats are sold out, but arena seats are still available.

- 2017 LEGACY LEADERBERNIE DARDIS

Bernie Dardis, a long-time Chamber member with strong roots in the region, has been named this year’s Legacy Leader. Dardis has been integral to the work of The Chamber, advocating on behalf of business interests in Bismarck, working for the entire Fargo Moorhead West Fargo region, and serving a key role in the merger between the West Fargo Chamber and Fargo Moorhead Chamber in 2010. Dardis has served on the Chamber Board of Directors since 2010, and as chair in 2013-14.

Dardis grew up in Killdeer, N.D., and moved to Fargo to attend NDSU, earning a Bachelor of Arts in sociology, with minors

in psychology and criminal justice. During his college years, he was involved in football, student government, Blue Key Honor Society and fraternity leadership.

He has humble beginnings, with his first jobs as a grave digger and working on a family ranch and feedlot. But he’s always had an interest in business, politics and people, and went on to become CEO of Indigo Signworks, a company in which he still serves as consultant. He says his proudest professional accomplishment is growing the company to six locations and the acquisition of five companies.

He also holds his community and political involvement near and dear to his heart. Dardis has held numerous positions on area boards, committees and clubs, ranging from the West Fargo Exchange Club to Sanford Health Foundation Board, Governor’s Judicial Nominating Committee, and North Dakota Republican Party. Within The Chamber, he also serves on

Chamber, he also serves on our Public Affairs and Flood Taskforce committees.

This isn’t Dardis’ first award or recognition, either. He’s also earned the Book of Golden Deeds Award from the West Fargo Exchange Club, made the Theta Chi Fraternity Hall of Fame, was the first recipient of the Elephants Remembered award for the ND Republican Party, was the recipient of the Liberty Bell Award from the ND Bar Association, and received the Masters of Success Lifetime Achievement Award from NDSU.

Those who know Dardis say he is genuinely kind, caring and savvy, and deeply adores his family. He and his wife, Louise, will be celebrating 41 years together, and together they have two sons and three grandchildren, with one more on the way.

Seventh Annual Meeting and Legacy Leader Presentation

Tuesday, September 19 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo

PRESENTING SPONSOR

LEGACY SPONSORS

2017 Chamber Challenge Golf Outing

Last month, we hosted our annual golf outing at Edgewood Golf Course with a fun pirate theme. Thanks to all our teams and sponsors!

Congratulations!

1 place st

Town & Country Credit Union team:

Trevor Keney

Jake Klobuchar

Mike Gillund

Joe Braun

2 place nd

Eide Bailly team:

Patrick Kautzman

Daren Pladson

Shane Alderman

Kelly Geiger

Best Themed Tee Box Sponsor - Town and Country Credit Union

3 place rd

U.S. Bank team:

Derek Harris

Scott Berg

Ann Schulze

Valerie Benson

Leaderboard Sponsor

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: AUGUST 2017

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

Eggs & Issues

Regional Workforce Shortage

Tuesday, August 1 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

Business Training

Preparing for the Active Shooter

Wednesday, August 9 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead

Business After Hours

The State of Technology

Wednesday, August 16 | 1 to 5 p.m.

Sanctuary Events Center

Holiday Inn Fargo August 17 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Register at fmwfchamber.com

Business After Hours

Thursday, August 17 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Holiday Inn Fargo

Women Connect

Serving with Confidence

Tuesday, August 22 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Sanctuary Events Center

Preparing for the Active Shooter

Wednesday, August 9

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

Courtyard by Marriott

The thought of an active shooter in our business or on our campus strikes fear. What motivates the shooter? How do we respond? Moorhead Police Department

Lt. Chris Carey will deliver a presentation on the history of active shooters and the lessons we learned from past events.

What should you expect as a response from the police? Knowing the five stages of an active shooter can assist in prevention. Is your business or campus attentive to employee behavior and doing everything they can to prevent being a target? Do you know how to “harden a target”? Knowing when to run, hide or fight should be a part of every employer’s plan. If the time comes to fight, you will find your inner warrior. Does the media influence how we feel or how we prepare for an active shooter? This presentation will provoke emotion and emotion will provoke action. Be prepared!

This training qualifies for 2 CPE credits for the North Dakota CPA Society.

REGISTRATION (INCLUDING LUNCH)

Chamber Members: $27 in advance | $32 at the door

Non-Members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Keys to Effective Communication

Wednesday, September 13 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Radisson Hotel Fargo

The importance of communication is paramount in the workplace, as we deal with clients, customers and co-workers. In this session, Jill Berg, president/owner of Spherion Staffing, will teach about the various forms of communication: phone, email, voice mail, face-to-face and social media, and how to make it more effective. You will learn listening skills with a chance to practice. Also included will be learning steps to diffuse negative communication.

In this session, you’ll learn:

• That communication comes in many different formats: spoken, written and non-verbal.

• To assess your listening skills and take away areas for improvement.

• How to grasp the impact of communication as it relates to technology.

Who should attend? Everyone who works in an organization and has interactions with others, whether co-workers, customers or manages people.

REGISTRATION (INCLUDING LUNCH)

Chamber Members: $30 in advance | $35 at the door

Non-Members: $40 in advance | $45 at the door

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Serving with Confidence: Making an Impact on a Board or in Public Service

Tuesday, August 22

3:30 to 5 p.m.

Sanctuary Events Center

Gender diversity is good for all, especially when it comes to leadership positions for women in corporate America. Whether on a board of directors or in a public service role, women bring value to the table – and to their companies and communities.

Gone are the days of the “male, pale and stale” leadership. Today we know that organizations function best when they accurately represent their jurisdictions, and that a diverse board is better positioned to thrive in today’s global economy.

But how can we as women add substantial value and not just be the token woman for a checklist? Here, we’ll discuss how you can step up and serve confidently. We’ll discuss how to find opportunities in our own community, how to break into these roles and how to effect positive change once you’re there.

We’ll also hear from an expert panel of local women who have served on boards, who will share their stories and offer attendees a look inside their roles.

Panelists include: Shara Fischer, chair of the City of Fargo Planning Commission; Michelle Lawson, Clay County Judge; Susan Mathison, MD, Catalyst Medical Center; and Shannon Roers Jones, attorney at ROERS and State Representative, District 46. Moderated by Lisa Borgen, American Crystal Sugar.

Please bring children’s books to donate to the Jeremiah Program.

Calibrating the Inner Compass: How to Lead in Alignment with your Guiding Principles

NEW LOCATION!

Tuesday, September 26

3:30 to 5 p.m. | Social 5 to 6 p.m.

DoubleTree by Hilton & West Fargo Conference Center

Do you know what really ignites your soul?

Research shows this is a crucial question to answer. Individuals who are living in alignment with their guiding principles are more likely to feel fulfilled and achieve the loftiest of goals. Yet, less than 20% of leaders report having a strong sense of their own individual purpose.

When we identify what really drives us, we regain the fuel needed to tackle the demands of our daily lives that can so often leave us deflated, overwhelmed and uninspired. But with today’s scheduling demands, where do we begin and how do we make the time?

This session will take you on a mini journey of self-discovery. Bethany Berkeley, performance consultant for Dale Carnegie, and Chelsea Monda, team lead of client consulting from Sundog, will provide resources to identify your true north and tools to begin leading with intention in all aspects of your life.

Note: This is part 1 of a 2-part series. Come back October 18 for part 2 “Living Your Most Authentic Life: It Means Taking Risks” to hear from a panel of community risk-takers on confronting self-doubt to put your purpose to action. You don’t need to attend both sessions – but we hope you do!

REGISTRATION

Chamber Members: $25 in advance | $30 at the door

Non-Members: $35 in advance | $40 at the door

Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

“YEA!

was a great experience!”

“YEA! was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in my life. I was given the chance to meet others who had the same passion as myself. The classes helped give me the courage to start my own business without being afraid to fail.”

“This program is a challenge… but if you stick it out and work hard, it turns out to be one of the greatest things you’ll do.”

“I made tons of new friends while gaining skills and knowledge that I’ll have for the rest of my life.”

“I learned things in YEA! that I wouldn’t have learned at school and I was able to apply those lessons to my business class. When we started learning about entrepreneurship in school, I already knew what my teacher was talking aboutthat was cool.”

If you know a student who is creative, goal-oriented and interested in business, please encourage him/ her to apply. Or nominate that student by contacting Katie Ralston at kralston@ fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0511.

We have been planning another exciting year of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) and now we need students to fill the class! Past students have seen success through their involvement in YEA! and many continue to apply what they learned through this program in school, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs and in the businesses they developed.

As we prepare to embark on the third year of YEA! locally, we hope you’ll help us spread the word about this unique program to the students you know. Here are a few rave reviews provided by some of the students in the YEA! class of 2017.

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy provides an educational experience like none other, and we are eager to find out who will be in the 2017-18 class.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

2016-17 SPONSORS

2017 State of TECHNOLOGY

from Every Corner of the State-

Keynote

Presenters

SENATOR HOEVEN ARNDORFER

U.S. Senator John Hoeven – with opening comments Emcee: Sandi Piatz, Site Leader, Director Fargo Campus Microsoft Seth Arndorfer, CEO Dakota Carrier Network – with a welcome message

Delivering a keynote address: ND Governor Doug Burgum. Presenters include (L to R) Betty Gronneberg, uCodeGirl; Brian Kalk, Energy and Environmental Research Center; Justin Walsh, CoSchedule; James Froberg and Fataneh Karandish, NDSU Innovation Challenge Winners; and Dakota Outerwear. Each will share about their company’s amazing innovations – including some advancements you haven’t even heard about yet! Also featuring the ITCND Awards Ceremony

`

Welcome to Our New Leadership Class!

We are thrilled to announce and welcome our 2017-18 Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo class. The following 40 individuals were selected from a pool of applicants and will start with orientation on August 10. Watch our Bridge next month for their class photo!

• Jeffrey Arntson, Doosan Bobcat

• Maggie Aslakson, Rasmussen College

• Bethany Berkeley, Dale Carnegie Business Group of ND & MN

• Angela Berntson, ROERS

• Craig Bjur, Fargo Park District

• Aaron Buffington, Microsoft

• Christine Bushy, The Village Family Service Center

• Carrie Carney, Eventide Senior Living Communities

• Laura Caroon, Concordia College

• Dan Cash, Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead

• Brandon Chapman, Midco

• Danne Doering, Choice Financial

• Ryan Downs, Thomsen Homes, LLC.

• Michelle Enockson, Essentia Health

• Tyler Fischbach, The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

• Matthew Gehrtz, Gehrtz Construction

• Tifanie Gelinske, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation

• Brian Halverson, Heartland Trust Company

• Max Hanft, Netrix Information technology

• Liv Helm, CoreLink Administrative Solutions

• Wes Heyen, American Crystal Sugar Company

• Holly Hoeschen, Minnesota State University Moorhead

• Brenda Johnson, Razor Consulting Solutions

• Brett Johnson, Eide Bailly LLP

• Mitchel Kudrna, Blue Cross Blue Shield ND

• Ryan Mullikin, Park Co. Realtors

• Michael Opat, Moore Engineering

• Shawn Paschke, Xcel Energy

• Josh Payne, John Deere Electronic Solutions

• Caley Perleberg, First International Bank & Trust

• Kristen Peterson, Wanzek Construction

• Melissa Reichert, Flint Group

• Meghna Roehl, John Deere Electronic Solutions

• Charlotte Rusch, Vogel Law Firm

• Angie Ryan, Dynamic Communities

• Alexis Schermer, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River Valley

• Megan Surdo, TMI Hospitality

• Robert Wilson, Cass County Government

• Anthony Wolf, Zerr Berg Architects

• Rhonda Young, Hornbacher’s

2016-17

James Hand

Project Engineer

Mortenson Construction

After spending a few years post-high school in Arizona, James Hand knew that he was meant to be in the Midwest. He packed his bags and moved to the FMWF community to attend North Dakota State University to earn a degree in Business Management. After a few years in real estate, James took a chance on a completely new industry; construction. James has been working with Mortenson Construction since 2014 and currently serves as a project engineer.

When not on the worksite, James can be found studying for his MBA at the University of Mary, serving on the Moorhead Park Board as a member at large, providing guidance as the chapter

The One to Watch award is given to a Young Professionals Network member who goes above and beyond, not only within their place of employment, but also within the organization and the community as a whole.

JAMES HAND

advisor for the Sigma Chi fraternity at NDSU and being an active member of the YPN leadership and Corporate Cup committees.

Because of his extensive community and professional involvement, his nominator, Samantha Gust with The Chamber, states that “while some may have a hard time juggling all these commitments, James holds each with high regard and successfully fulfills all duties assigned. James has an even keeled approach to all he does and is always looking for ways to improve the current process. He is an excellent addition to whatever he involves himself in.”

In his down time, James enjoys spending time with his wife, Tessa, two sons, David and Tucker and the family dog, Kota. They can be found at the lake during the summer or enjoying all the things the community has to offer. A self-

proclaimed gadget guy, he also enjoys “nerd-stuff” especially his drone.

When asked if there has been a piece of professional advice he has received that really stuck with him, James quoted Michael Scott of The Office, saying “I knew exactly what to do, but in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do”. While funny, it helps him remember that there is always an opportunity to learn and find new ways to solve a problem.

Speaking from personal experience, the best advice James can offer any young professional is to be open. Three years ago, he would have never thought he would get the chance to have a hand in building large, interesting commercial projects but taking the leap has lead him to new experiences and opportunities to learn.

2016-17 PROGRAM SPONSORS

June’s Women Connect featured Stephanie Ahlfeldt from Concordia College on crucial conversations. Ahlfeldt shared a bundle of information on identifying your values to help guide tough situations.

The next month, Nukhet Hendricks from Homeward Animal Shelter and She Leads Fearlessly took the stage to discuss leadership. We learned how to step up as leaders and live authentic and meaningful lives at the same time.

Last month, the YPN hosted a Networking to Business event on How to Rock your Performance Review with Amanda Maslowski from U.S. Bank. We learned how to set goals, self-evaluate and navigate tough conversations.

LAST MONTH IN PHOTOS

Fittingly after Military Appreciation Night, July’s Eggs & Issues took a look at the state of our military. We were joined by Alan Dohrmann, adjuntant general for the state of North Dakota, for an update on the current happenings for military men and women in our region.

It’s a digital world, and we’re all living in it. July’s Business Training brought together a panel of experts who shared tips and tricks for delivering exceptional customer service in today’s digital age. We heard from Mark Youngblood, Discovery Benefits; Becky Moch, Sanford Health; Deanne Trieglaff, Swanson Health Products; and Ryan Aldrich, GoodBulb.

Thank You

to Our Committees and Committee Chairs!

We are so grateful to the volunteers who serve on our committees, as well as the individuals who lead those groups as chairs and vice chairs. We appreciate your time and commitment to making The Chamber an even better organization and for your help in serving our members. Thanks to the hard work of each committee’s leadership and members, we’ve been able to grow all our events and programs and support the FMWF business community.

The service from each of these individuals is invaluable to the work we do as a Chamber. thank you. thank you. From all of The Chamber staff, a sincere

Agribusiness

Brian Ingulsrud

American Crystal Sugar Company

Ambassadors - Membership Relations

Erica Johnsrud

Ronald McDonald House

Ambassadors - Public Relations

Patty Mastel

Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

Business Training

Angie Ryan

Dynamic Communities

Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo

Megan Stoner

Marco

Military Affairs

Brian Shawn

Midco

Public Affairs

Marshal Albright

Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc.

Women Connect

Jodi Heilman

Coach My Brand

Young Professionals Network

Amanda Carlson

State Farm Insurance

Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members

The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors serves as the governing body of the organization. The Chamber’s fiscal year concludes on August 31.

The following individuals have reached their term limits:

Eventide Senior Living Communities

Board member since 2011

Board Chair 2015-16

D-S Beverages, Inc.

Board member since 2011

Board Chair 2014-15

Board member since 2010

Board Chair 2013-14

Thank you to Jon, Doug and Bernie for your contributions to The Chamber!

Watch our September Bridge for the list of new board members and appointments effective September 1.

Sixteen individuals comprise the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and these individuals work for member firms in good standing with The Chamber. Directors are elected to serve a threeyear term and can serve two consecutive, full terms in office. To ensure equal representation for each community the Chamber serves, residency requirements have been included in the by-laws. Terms begin on September 1 to coincide with the start of The Chamber’s fiscal year.

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

Our business banking professionals offer customized financial solutions to fit your strategic goals.

We are committed to long-term relationships  built on trust that is earned, through proven financial guidance.

Give us a call today, let’s get started.

GRAND SLAM SPONSOR

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT

We had another amazing time at our seventh annual Military Appreciation Night last month at Newman Outdoor Field with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks.

The evening opened with a picnic, inflatable games and photo opportunities with RedHawks players for military families.

The U.S. Navy SEAL team of Patriot Parachuters did an incredible display delivering the flag for the National Anthem from the sky. Vocalists representing the American Legion Post 2 sang “Star Spangled Banner,” and recruits representing all branches of the military took part in a swearing in ceremony.

Lawrence Karels, an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, delivered the first pitch. Karels also won a giveaway for a year’s worth of groceries from Hornbacher’s.

Another emotional moment during the game was when David K. Halcrow, a Vietnam War veteran who served in the United States Army, was awarded medals he earned during his service that he had not yet received. He also received a new Green Beret, which had been shot right off his head during battle.

We want to thank our Honor Star members, Military Affairs committee, all sponsors and attendees, for supporting this great event and coming out to celebrate our region’s military.

Around 1984, a local group of parents of children with disabilities became determined to keep their children out of institutional care and in private homes. This grassroots effort gave rise to the agency we know as Access of the Red River Valley. Today, they continue with this mission of supporting children and adults in leading dignified independent lives.

They do this through independent living services, in-home family support, corporate foster care, children’s mental health case management, and more. Collaboration with families, schools and resources in the community help make it all possible.

For non-profits with governmentcontrolled budgets, it can be hard to get the word out, and that’s what makes this humble organization so proud of receiving a 2017 ChamberChoice Award. For staff at Access, it’s a 24/7 job where every day is different and they get to change people’s lives. From college students to those needing a part-time job, their employees come from all walks of life.

Which fits perfectly into their guiding principles to treat everyone with respect and to appreciate differences.

Though most of their budget goes to payroll for their around 130 employees, it’s clear their focus is on providing the best care possible, offering 1-on-1 care for every client. Their goal is to treat each client as they would want their own children to be treated, and with the same opportunities as anyone else. “We are dealing with human beings, and every situation is different,” Krista Svobodny, HR manager, said.

All clients at Access live in a safe home with their own bedroom and their own space. Currently, they have eight sites where clients live alone and a few others with only two clients sharing a home. In 2007, they opened a triplex unit in Moorhead, which houses six clients, as well as the Michael Czichotzki Learning Center, where staff and clients can come for classes and activities.

Community integration is vital at Access. For their clients, community inclusion creates value for everyone’s uniqueness and abilities. They believe it is important for everyone to feel they are part of an event, and not just observe. Community outings also teach valuable social skills. Bill Smith, services director, says there is rarely an event going on around town that Access clients do not attend.

Smith has a unique take on his work at Access. In his 15-year career there, he first started as a case manager and has been able to watch clients grow when they start with the agency as children through adulthood. He says being able to witness their young clients become successful 30-year-olds is what he loves most. “We take care of them, from teaching them how to cook, do laundry and take care of themselves, and then see the progression of them becoming independent and knowing you’re part of that.”

Playing an important role in our community for over 30 years, Access hopes to maintain the same quality of service going forward, but hopes to see growth in employees and awareness. Kathy Potter, executive director, says she just wants people to know that Access is there and provides a much-needed service for our community. She often refers to a slogan Smith says, which is that we are all just one accident away from a disability, and it can happen to anybody. If something happens to you or someone you know, you can at least rest assured that the individuals at Access will step in to help.

NEW MEMBERS

Aggregate Industries

aggregateindustries.com

Concrete & Asphalt Products

A leading player in the construction industry, Aggregate Industries is committed to creating a better built environment through sustainable approaches. They produce and supply a range of construction materials including aggregates, asphalt, ready-mixed concrete and blocks. They also import and supply cement materials and offer national road surfacing/contracting services.

Arneson Holdings

701.277.1518

Real Estate

The Auto Spa theautospa.biz

Car Washing – Cleaning

The Auto Spa is locally owned and operated, was established in 2004 with a dream, a vision and a passion for the auto detailing and reconditioning industry. They pride themselves on outstanding customer service and maintain the highest level of quality and dedication. They have 30-plus years in the car industry.

Balance Restored Chiropractic balancerestoredchiro.com

Chiropractors

Balance Restored Chiropractic’s vision is to give quality vs quantity care by focusing on a whole body approach and taking time to originate the cause of your issue each and every visit.

Haga Kommer Ltd hagakommer.com

Accounting - Accounting Services

A locally owned accounting firm that provides personal service in all areas of tax, accounting, payroll, and 401(k) administration for small business and individuals.

Lion’s Way Consulting, Inc.

218.331.5979

Consultants

People get stuck and overwhelmed. Lion’s Way helps them get unstuck! They are a fun and enthusiastic firm who educates trains and coaches entrepreneurs and business owners who want to improve their performance and grow.

North Dakota Humanities Council ndhumanities.org

Education - Training

North Dakota Humanities Council provides people opportunities to engage with and debate powerful ideas, because democracy demands wisdom and vision in its citizens.

Rapid Refill Ink rapidrefillfargo.com

Office Equipment & Supplies

Rapid Refill Ink and Toner of Fargo stocks an extensive lineup of print solutions products including Rapid Refill brand laser toner cartridges and popular brand name inkjet cartridges for virtually every printer on the market, all backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

Tickel Chiropractic tickelchiropractic.com

Chiropractors

Tickel Chiropractic uses chiropractic as our primary source of health care. They not only teach others about natural health care, but practice it in their own family. They are an active family and are able to remain active because of chiropractic.

We encourage all members to conduct business with each other. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber!

Want to find all our members? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com

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

DFC Consultants has been named one of the best workplaces nationwide by Inc. Magazine. Inc.’s Best Workplaces celebrates companies that actively strive to build vibrant and engaging cultures. The Best Workplaces award recognizes U.S. companies based on a third party administered employee satisfaction survey from Quantum Workplace. Each participating company administered an employee survey on issues like career development, communication, trust in leadership, team dynamics and individual needs. Survey scores account for employer size to level the playing field between small and large businesses.

Ninety percent of Edward Jones financial advisors say they will be working at the firm in one to two years from now, according to a survey by J.D. Power, which ranks Edward Jones “Highest in Employee Advisor Satisfaction among Financial Investment Firms” for the ninth time in as many studies. The industry average was 51%. Edward Jones financial advisors gave the highest satisfaction ratings in all of the seven study categories, with a score of 925 points out of 1,000. This compares to the industry average of 719. Edward Jones was among seven firms captured in the study.

Just as financial advisors scored Edward Jones’ technology support very high, a different recent study validates an element of client-facing technology. The search engine optimization study from Hearsay Systems and Moz ranked wealth management firms for their effective digital presence, or clicks. It ranked Edward Jones highest for the firm’s success at attracting online traffic to its websites.

Family HealthCare Pharmacy, NDSU, recently received two awards. It was recognized as the top provider of medication therapy management services in North Dakota through the Outcomes platform of Cardinal Health. Family HealthCare Pharmacy also received the Best Practices Award from the North Dakota Society of Health-System Pharmacists. The award recognizes outstanding practice, demonstrating best practices in health-system pharmacy. The staff of Family HealthCare Pharmacy, NDSU works closely with the staff and medical providers of the Family HealthCare Center. The pharmacy and clinic provide additional services to assist uninsured and underinsured patients and provide health care to persons who are homeless.

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES

Flom Property Group of Keller Williams Inspire Realty was named Top Listing Volume Team and Top Written Volume Team for April.

Liberty Business Systems, Inc. announced that they have received the Dealer of Distinction Award from Great America Financial Services, a nationwide provider of commercial equipment and technology financing. Liberty Business Systems, Inc. was recognized for its unparalleled customer commitment and dedication to excellence.

Luther Collision & Glass has been officially Certified by Assured Performance, a non-profit consumer advocacy organization for maintaining the right tools, equipment, training, and facility necessary to repair the participating Automaker brand vehicles according to the manufacturer’s specifications. In achieving their certification, Luther Collision & Glass is now an integral part of the most advanced repair capable and efficient auto body repair network in the world. Adding to their credentials, Luther Collision & Glass is officially recognized by Assured Performance, GM, Ford, Nissan, FCA, and Hyundai. The certification criteria is based upon auto manufacturer requirements. These are critical to ensure the vehicle fit, finish, durability, value and safety following an accident.

Matt’s Automotive Service Center earned the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence’s (ASE) Blue Seal of Excellence for the seventh year in a row. Matt’s is one of the only two shops in the area to have earned this award. All the technicians at Matt’s Automotive are ASE certified with eight technicians being ASE Master Technicians. “Businesses that have earned the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition have gone the extra mile in support of their customers. Employing ASE certified professionals is an important element in their overall customer satisfaction program. We salute those businesses who achieve this goal and thank them for helping promote quality automotive repair and service,” says Timothy Zilke, ASE president.

BauerFinancial, Inc., a leading independent bank rating firm, released its bank and credit union star-ratings for the 2017 first quarter. Western State Bank received a 5 star rating for the 50th consecutive quarter. BauerFinancial has been providing the public with these rating since 1983.

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

Absolute Marketing Group

Elle Anderson, Client Relations Intern

Trent Petersen, Client Relations Intern

Aldevron

Madeline Arneson, Client Relations Coordinator

Daniel Asa, Intern

Elizabeth Ellens, Biomanufacturing Operator

Jessica Haugen, Biomanufacturing Operator

Samantha Havran, Talent Acquisition and Development Manager

Chris Miller, Lab Tech I

Graham Stoltenow, Biomanufacturing Operator

Meghan Syrstad, Biomanufacturing Operator

Alexandra Thom, Client Relations Specialist

Samuel Vinje, Biomanufacturing Operator

Shelby Wunderlich, Biomanufacturing Operator

American Diabetes Association

Rachel Collier (Bell Bank) Community Leadership Board Member

Apex Engineering Group

Kyle Koterba, Professional Electrical Engineer

Appareo

Patricia Anderson, Warehouse Associate

Andrew Brown, Project Manager

Dawn Crowe, Assembler

Peter Crowley, Embedded Software Engineer

Wyatt Dick, Mechanical Design Engineer

Kyle Erickson, Project Manager

Nathan Hawk, Senior SMT Engineer

Joel Kern, Field Test Engineer

Cole Mehring, Electronics Design Engineer

Michelle Ryan, Assembler

Ben Wolbaum, Mechanical Design Engineer

Bell Bank

Kari Bloomquist, VP/Virtual Bank Manager

Bryce Jorgenson, Personal Banking Officer

Darin Mulcahy, Facilities Maintenance Manager

Dalton Rolland, Personal Banking Officer

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties

Maureen Bartelt, Realtor®

Tahnee Young, Realtor®

Bethany Retirement Living

Alyssa Blumler, RN, Director of Quality and Education

Beyond Realty

Danielle Leitheiser, REALTOR® (no headshot)

Bremer Bank

Iby Nemati, Mortgage Loan Officer

Capital Credit Union

Matt Ratchenski, Securian Financial Advisor

Cass County Electric Cooperative

Stephanie Lupkes, Member Accounts Specialist

Choice Financial

Haley Weber, Frontline Specialist

Cornerstone Bank

Jessica Eagan, Business Banking Associate

Julie Erickson, Operations Assistant

Austin Thom, Mortgage Operations Assistant

Kathy Weiss, Home Mortgage Consultant

Downtown Community Partnership

Jonathan Holth, Interim President & CEO

Dynamic Communities

Angie Ryan, Product Marketing Manager

Essentia Health

Dr. David Bradley, Pain Medicine Department

Dr. Michelle Bradley, Family Medicine Physician

Amanda Brodeur, Certified Nurse Midwife

Dr. Venkata Dandamudi, Interventional Neurology

Kayla Glanz, Physician Assistant

Janell Kjos, Nurse Practitioner

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE

Dr. Daniel Levin, Optometrist

Dr. Marline Sangnil, Physiatrist

Dr. Adam Stibbe, Radiologist

Dr. Kiron Thomas, Interventional Neurology Dept

First International Bank & Trust (no headshots)

Tina Key, Personal Banker III PROMOTED

Jessica Mears, East Market Retail Banking Supervisor

Blair Miller, Information Technology Security Analyst

Kari Tews, Learning & Development Retail Instructor

Fargo Inn & Suites

Justin Schreiber, General Manager

High Point Networks, LLC

Shane Bryn, Project Manager

Nate Bush, System Engineer

Merrilee Hallaway, Controller

Dustin Oakland, Network Engineer (no photo)

Jordan Sanger, Systems Engineer (no photo)

Ashley Sather, Help Desk Dispatcher (no photo)

Peyton Wegleitner, Marketing Coordinator

Houston Engineering, Inc.

Gabe Brien, Civil Engineer

Julie Capasso, Safety Specialist

Clay Jorgensen, EI, Civil Engineer

Kilbourne Group

Nicholas Chavez, Staff Accountant

KLJ

Jessica Wagner, Engineer

Liberty Business Systems, Inc.

Cody Klug, Sales Associate

Abby Odamtten, Customer Service Representative

My Professional Concierge

Danielle Brewer, Client Marketing

Mara Lopez, Client Marketing

North Dakota Autism Center

Genna Joyce, Community Relations Manager

Obermiller Nelson Engineering

Taylor Green, Marketing Coordinator

Andrew Honeyman, Mechanical Engineer

Property Resources Group

Dane Tollefson, Commercial Agent

Send your employee announcements to thebridge@fmwfchamber.com., and we’ll feature you here in an upcoming month! Free, and for members only.

Sanford Health

Thaslim Kassim, M.D., Cardiology

Casey Swenson, M.D., Radiology & Neuroradiology

Swarna Yadlapalli, M.D., Eating Disorders and Weight Loss Management

Spotlight Media

Hillary Ehlen, Staff Photographer

Tatiana Hasbargen, Business Operations Intern

Anushree Kesurvala, Sales Intern

Ruth Olson, Sales Intern

Stoneridge Software

Mike Gast, President

Briana Scearcy, Chief People Officer

TF Powers Construction

Anna Erickson, Executive Assistant/Marketing Coordinator

TMI Hospitality

Adam Laskey, Hotel Accountant

Vanessa Mardaus, Office Operations Assistant

The Village Business Institute

Darren Carter, Employee Assistance Program Counselor

Widmer Roel

Brian Christensen, Staff Accountant

Nick Evin, Staff Accountant

OTHER NEWS

Apex Engineering Group announced that Michael Quamme, Alex Ausk and Craig Tschida have all earned their Professional Engineer licensure.

Christopher Miller of Beyond Shelter, Inc., in Fargo, ND has earned the designation of Housing Credit Certified Professional™ from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and NAHB Multifamily.

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Matthew De Vries was one of 383 financial advisors out of the firm’s more than 15,000 to receive the Top Talent Acquisition Award. He also won the firm’s Jim McKenzie Award for his exceptional achievement in building client relationships.

Dean Rindy, attorney at O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss of Fargo, has been honored by Chambers USA Guide in his practice area: real estate.

Liberty Business Systems, Inc. announced that Nick Gustafson, service field supervisor, achieved certification under the Strategic Partnership In Ricoh Education (SPIRE) Program to become an authorized SPIRE Instructor.

Matt’s Automotive Service Center Technicians Jamey Cossette and Dave Erickson received his ASE Master certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.