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The Bridge: July 2022

Page 1


COMMUNITY BUILDERS

Community Builders are businesses committed to enhancing our community by investing in our programs and initiatives.

Ignite FMWF

Ignite FMWF is

MISSION

The

Board of Directors

CORNERSTONES

Chamber Staff

A note from the President

I hope you have been able to find some time to enjoy this longawaited summer weather in FMWF. I am always pleasantly surprised at all of the fun things happening around town seemingly every day of the week - we truly live in the best community there is.

Speaking of our community, July marks the month that The Chamber is publishing our annual Metro Profile magazine; and it has a whole new life this time around. We are ramping up our efforts in attracting individuals, employees and families to our region, and acclimating them once they arrive. This new Metro Profile magazine is a 64-page showcase and collection of stories about the unique, unexpected and unrivaled aspects of life in the FMWF community – as told by the people who call this place home. We built this tool not only for our community to enjoy, but for our businesses and recruiters to intentionally use for their employment and recruitment needs. The Chamber will be distributing this across our metro, as well as the Twin Cities metro. It is time to let everyone know how incredible this place is. Enjoy this tiny sneak peak of the Metro Profile, as well as some fun recaps of a couple of our recent signature events.

I am also excited to announce that The Chamber will be moving forward with a new building and business resource hub. This is going to be a major and crucial project for us, and we will need the support of our great members to help us bring this to fruition. We dive into the matter a bit deeper in this issue of The Bridge, but if you have expertise or services that you think could be a valuable asset for this project, please reach out to me.

Thank you all for reading this issue of The Bridge, enjoy this great weather, and we will be seeing you soon!

Welcome to the Fargo-Moorhead

We’re excited to offer this guide of all things Fargo, but before you dive in too deep, check out these facts!

With a population of 243,966, Fargo is home to many diverse ethnicities, age groups and more.

AGE GROUPS

HIGHER EDUCATION

Wondering about higher education? There are numerous options!

Concordia College

Minnesota State University – Moorhead MState

North Dakota State College of Science

North Dakota State University

Rasmussen University – Fargo Campus

University of Jamestown

University of Mary – Fargo Campus

Plus innovative learning options such as the Moorhead High School Career Academy and Cass County Career Innovation Center!

VALUES AND RENT

Fargo-Moorhead community

So, what do you think? With endless options for entertainment, dining, schools, jobs, parks (dog parks too!), activities and so much more – Fargo Moorhead is ready for you to call it your home.

Career options in Fargo are endless. With several companies having regional or national headquarters here, such as Microsoft, Horsch, Doosan Bobcat and more, you’ll have no problem finding a company to grow with. Plus, it won’t take you that long to get to work.

Average commute time to work: 14.9 minutes

US average is 27.6 minutes.

We have a strong Midwest work ethic. In fact, we have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at: 2.7%

Looking to travel? Fargo offers several options: Amtrak

Hector International Airport Bus services

Car rental companies

Fargo Jet Center

If traveling isn’t your thing and you want to stick around, you’ll be able to enjoy all four seasons and the fun that comes with each. Do you like hot and sunny? Enjoy building snowmen? Maybe raking leaves is your favorite past time. Whichever season you prefer, FM has them all.

We also have a robust healthcare system. With two major hospital systems, the Fargo VA and many specialized clinics and centers, your family will always be healthy and well taken care of.

TURN THE PAGE AND MEET YOUR COMMUNITY TOUR GUIDES!

CRISTINA MCCOY

Married to Sam; two children • My job: Director of Sales, KAJ Hospitality

I have lived in the FMWF community my whole life; 38 years. My husband and I met in college during a night out with friends and have been in each other’s lives now for about 16 years. We decided to stay in the area because we absolutely love it here. My entire life started here and I wanted a place to build a foundation like my parents did with my sister and me.

Fargo has so much to offer as a ‘little big city’ and is continuing to grow and thrive, with more diversity than ever before. We have some of the best schools in the state, a strong economy, a very low crime rate… and it is just overall a great community to raise a family in.

JACK AND RYLEE

Engaged • Where we work: AdShark Marketing | Razor Consulting Solutions

We are always talking about what a great sense of community we have in the Fargo-Moorhead area, and we have wonderful friends here. It’s hard to imagine picking up, moving and replicating that elsewhere. This community is incredibly inclusive, and has opened up our lives to some of the most meaningful relationships. We both view it as a great place to have a growing career, and a great place to raise a family in the future.

Before moving to Fargo from the Twin Cities, Jack thought it was going to be too small here. Before Rylee moved here from a small town in North Dakota, she thought Fargo was going to be too big. As we’ve rooted ourselves here and made it our home, we’ve come to realize that it’s the perfect size for both of us. It’s a large enough metro to have opportunities and entertainment, but a small enough community to see many familiar faces everywhere you go. In our eyes, you get the best of both worlds.

DARREN AND DONNA

Married • Where we work: The FMWF Chamber | Spherion Staffing

We met at a local health club, and after several months of bantering back and forth about “you owe me a beer” jokes, we finally went to Ground Round to true-up our bets on beers and burgers. We married almost five years later and have enjoyed 31 years of fun and travels as a married couple.

Fargo has a small town feel with big town activities. We take full advantage of going to more concerts than we can count, attending community events, enjoying high school and collegiate sporting events, volunteering, dining out, golfing, hiking and much more.

ZOE BUNDY

High school student

My family moved to Fargo in 2009 from Dallas, Texas. We came up here for my dad’s job and have really enjoyed living in this community. I am a student at Davies High School, and am interested in social work and aviation – NDSU and UND both have great social work programs. Through ND Center for Distance Education, I have been able to learn more about aerospace in high school classes, and will also be taking a few social work classes this fall at my high school.

I have enjoyed my youth groups through two different churches, and other high school groups that involve comedy, trivia and live music each week. In my free time I enjoy playing guitar, singing, fishing, hunting, volunteering and getting to meet people in Fargo.

EMMA MCINTYRE

A parent… if her dog counts as a child • My job: Director of Community Development, Chezy (A video startup out of West Fargo)

I grew up in Fargo, and moved back after graduating from the University of Northern Colorado. I think my favorite thing about Fargo is the ability to be a starter in the community. We’re small enough that you get to be a part of building the community you want to exist in, but large enough that there is access to people and resources that can have a major effect on what comes next for you, as well as the future of our region.

RICKY PALLAY

Married to Jelsa • My job: Director of Care Coordination, F5 Project

I moved to Fargo from Pasadena, California in the Spring of 2011. Jelsa and I met at a holiday party in December of 2011, and we have been married for 6 years now. I have conquered 11 winters here so far, and I continue to stay in Fargo not as a glutton for punishment, but because the warmth and kindness from the genuine community here is like no other. Sometimes I laugh when I think that everyone who lives here must have seen that old Olive Garden commercial and took it to heart, “When you’re here, you’re family.”

I love our art, music and events scene. Whether it’s the coldest day of the year or the hottest temps of the summer, there will be an activity going on to keep you entertained.

TAMI NORGARD

Mother of three • My job: Attorney, Vogel Law Firm

Fargo-Moorhead has been home for 23 years. I moved to Moorhead from Minneapolis in 1999, and built a home in Fargo in 2012. I am thankful to be raising three kids in this great community; Piper is in 7th grade in West Fargo, Sebastien is a junior at NDSU, and Avery graduated from Concordia College last year and will be going to law school this fall. In fact, it is largely because of my now 23-year-old daughter that I decided to move to the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Living in the FMWF community provides a great opportunity to have a balanced life. Great work opportunities abound, yet we prioritize family and time to recharge and enjoy life.

DAVE HARMON

Married to Allison; two children • My job: Owner and MC/DJ, Harmon Entertainment

I have been in the area since 1994, when I was a student at NDSU. In the late ‘90s I started getting into swing dancing, and I started teaching couples how to dance in the Fargo area. A handful of years later I met my wife while dancing downtown, and “it was love at first swivel!” If I’m not out working at a wedding, you can find me hanging out on my deck with friends and family, golfing, volunteering at our church, working out at Orangetheory Fitness, or binging Stranger Things or Ozark at home.

People are generally friendly here and would help their neighbor if asked… there is definitely less road rage here as well.

LIVING IN FARGO - MOORHEAD 2022-23 METRO PROFILE

Whether you are on the search for a c-suite executive at your business, you need to acclimate a new full-time employee from outside of our region, or you simply want to show off how great our community is – we have the tool for you.

The 2022-23 Metro Profile is a 64-page showcase and collection of stories about the unique, unexpected and unrivaled aspects about life in the FMWF community – told by the people who call this place home. Topics include entertainment, outdoors, lake life, community and culture, business and job opportunities, education and schools, neighborhoods, travel and more. Use the QR code to not only explore the entire magazine, but to order physical copies for your recruitment needs.

https://www.fmwfchamber.com/metro-profile

Sponsored content

YOUR BUSINESS HAS OUTGROWN YOUR BANK

SIGNS YOUR BUSINESS HAS OUTGROWN YOUR BANK

relationship is one of the key professional for your business. Your banking partner is not just for protecting and managing your assets, helps arrange financing to leverage your strategic provides you with insights that come from working range of businesses.

Your banking relationship is one of the key professional partnerships for your business. Your banking partner is responsible not just for protecting and managing your assets, but also helps arrange financing to leverage your strategic plan and provides you with insights that come from working with a wide range of businesses.

A PRODUCT LINE-UP NOT AS BROAD AS YOUR NEEDS

Any bank can provide you with deposit accounts and some degree of credit, but what if you looking for more? Some financial institutions might not be able to offer the full range of solutions your business can use. Banking, and other benefits through a single source can help your business gain efficiencies and operate more smoothly.

But your bank also needs to be the right size to support your needs. For fast-growing and dynamic businesses, it is possible to outgrow a bank. How will you know when that happens? Here are five signs to watch for:

bank also needs to be the right size to support your fast-growing and dynamic businesses, it is possible bank. How will you know when that happens? signs to watch for:

LACKS THE SCALE TO SUPPORT YOUR CREDIT OR FUNDING NEEDS

A PRODUCT LINE-UP NOT AS BROAD AS YOUR NEEDS

Any bank can provide you with deposit accounts and degree of credit, but what if you looking for more? Some financial institutions might not be able to offer the full range of solutions your business can use. Banking, and benefits through a single source can help your business

to outgrow a bank. How will you know when that happens? Here are five signs to watch for:

to outgrow a bank. How will you know when that happens? Here are five signs to watch for:

FUNDING NEEDS

FUNDING NEEDS

LACKS THE SCALE TO SUPPORT YOUR CREDIT OR FUNDING NEEDS

TECHNOLOGY THAT DOESN’T SUPPORT YOUR GEOGRAPHIC GROWTH

TECHNOLOGY THAT DOESN’T SUPPORT YOUR GEOGRAPHIC GROWTH

TECHNOLOGY THAT DOESN’T SUPPORT YOUR GEOGRAPHIC GROWTH

TECHNOLOGY THAT DOESN’T SUPPORT YOUR GEOGRAPHIC GROWTH

It used to be that a business that grew geographically would keep its business with a bank that matched its footprint. These days, having a bank around the corner where you can deposit your daily receipts isn’t nearly as important. As transactions have moved virtual, your bank should be able to support your cash management needs from wherever you do business. If your bank doesn’t support that experience as you grow, you may need a new partner.

that a business that grew geographically would business with a bank that matched its footprint. having a bank around the corner where you your daily receipts isn’t nearly as important. As have moved virtual, your bank should be able to cash management needs from wherever you do your bank doesn’t support that experience as you may need a new partner.

It used to be that a business that grew geographically would keep its business with a bank that matched its footprint. These days, having a bank around the corner where you can deposit your daily receipts isn’t nearly as important. As transactions have moved virtual, your bank should be able to support your cash management needs from wherever you do business. If your bank doesn’t support that experience as you grow, you may need a new partner.

It used to be that a business that grew geographically would keep its business with a bank that matched its footprint. These days, having a bank around the corner where you can deposit your daily receipts isn’t nearly as important. As transactions have moved virtual, your bank should be able to support your cash management needs from wherever you do business. If your bank doesn’t support that experience as you grow, you may need a new partner.

A LACK OF EXPERTISE IN

THE ISSUES FACING YOUR BUSINESS

EXPERTISE IN THE ISSUES FACING YOUR

Especially for businesses that are making big moves, working with a bank that has the resources and flexibility to support your plans is critical. Being able to access increased financing in a timely manner is critical. You want to work with a bank that understands your business and vision and has the capability and risk tolerance to provide the financing.

Especially for businesses that are making big moves, working with a bank that has the resources and flexibility to support your plans is critical. Being able to access increased financing in a timely manner is critical. You want to work with a bank that understands your business and vision and has the capability and risk tolerance to provide the financing.

Especially for businesses that are making big moves, working with a bank that has the resources and flexibility to support your plans is critical. Being able to access increased financing in a timely manner is critical. You want to work with a bank that understands your business and vision and has the capability and risk tolerance to provide the financing.

Especially for businesses that are making big moves, working with a bank that has the resources and flexibility to support your plans is critical. Being able to access increased financing in a timely manner is critical. You want to work with that understands your business and vision and has the capability and risk tolerance to provide the financing.

NOT ABLE TO ANTICIPATE YOUR CHALLENGES OR PROPERLY MATCH SOLUTIONS

NOT ABLE TO ANTICIPATE YOUR CHALLENGES OR PROPERLY MATCH SOLUTIONS

NOT ABLE TO ANTICIPATE YOUR CHALLENGES OR PROPERLY MATCH SOLUTIONS

NOT ABLE TO ANTICIPATE YOUR CHALLENGES OR PROPERLY MATCH SOLUTIONS

A LACK OF EXPERTISE IN THE ISSUES FACING YOUR BUSINESS

A LACK OF EXPERTISE IN THE ISSUES FACING YOUR BUSINESS

As businesses grow, they need bankers who can provide advice as much as service. If your business is reaching a size where you are engaged in succession planning and repositioning of equity, complex acquisitions or expansion, or doing more business internationally, your bank may not have the experience to provide the level of guidance you need. Working with business advisors who have been there and done that is a powerful asset for expanding companies.

businesses grow, they need bankers who can provide much as service. If your business is reaching a you are engaged in succession planning and repositioning of equity, complex acquisitions or expansion, more business internationally, your bank may not experience to provide the level of guidance you need. with business advisors who have been there and a powerful asset for expanding companies.

As businesses grow, they need bankers who can provide advice as much as service. If your business is reaching a size where you are engaged in succession planning and repositioning of equity, complex acquisitions or expansion, or doing more business internationally, your bank may not have the experience to provide the level of guidance you need. Working with business advisors who have been there and done that is a powerful asset for expanding companies.

As businesses grow, they need bankers who can provide advice as much as service. If your business is reaching a size where you are engaged in succession planning and repositioning of equity, complex acquisitions or expansion, or doing more business internationally, your bank may not have the experience to provide the level of guidance you need. Working with business advisors who have been there and done that is a powerful asset for expanding companies.

Sometimes it’s not that a bank lacks a certain product or capability, but that your contacts don’t have experience creating solutions from scratch or working with a broad array of resources to suggest options that may benefit your business. U.S. Small Business Administration loans are a notable example. Many SBA loans have specific guidelines, and only an advisor with SBA experience may recognize that you are eligible before you even ask.

Sometimes it’s not that a bank lacks a certain product or capability, but that your contacts don’t have experience creating solutions from scratch or working with a broad array of resources to suggest options that may benefit your business. U.S. Small Business Administration loans are a notable example. Many SBA loans have specific guidelines, and only an advisor with SBA experience may recognize that you are eligible before you even ask.

Sometimes it’s not that a bank lacks a certain product or capability, but that your contacts don’t have experience creating solutions from scratch or working with a broad array of resources to suggest options that may benefit your business. U.S. Small Business Administration loans are a notable example. Many SBA loans have specific guidelines, and only an advisor with SBA experience may recognize that you are eligible before you even ask.

Sometimes it’s not that a bank lacks a certain product capability, but that your contacts don’t have experience creating solutions from scratch or working with a broad array of resources to suggest options that may benefit business. U.S. Small Business Administration loans are notable example. Many SBA loans have specific guidelines, and only an advisor with SBA experience may recognize you are eligible before you even ask.

Finding a good banking match is about understanding your own needs and the capabilities of your banking partner. It’s also about finding a bank you trust, one that takes a personal interest in your business, and helps you build a holistic plan. Alerus offers a team of highly experienced advisors to tailor your plan, with a wide range of technology and solutions. To experience the Alerus difference contact us today.

Finding a good banking match is about understanding your own needs and the capabilities of your banking partner. It’s also about finding a bank you trust, one that takes a personal interest in your business, and helps you build a holistic plan. Alerus offers a team of highly experienced advisors to tailor your plan, with a wide range of technology and solutions. To experience the Alerus difference contact us today.

Finding a good banking match is about understanding your own needs and the capabilities of your banking partner. It’s also about finding a bank you trust, one that takes a personal interest in your business, and helps you build a holistic plan. Alerus offers a team of highly experienced advisors to tailor your plan, with a wide range of technology and solutions. To experience the Alerus difference contact us today.

Finding a good banking match is about understanding own needs and the capabilities of your banking partner. also about finding a bank you trust, one that takes a personal interest in your business, and helps you build a holistic Alerus offers a team of highly experienced advisors to your plan, with a wide range of technology and solutions. experience the Alerus difference contact us today.

5...4…3…2...1!

Mel Robbins brought energy and inspiration to the big stage last month at our eighth annual Women Connect Celebration! We had deep and meaningful moments throughout the afternoon with a healthy dose of laughing, crying, connecting and strengthening relationships with over 1,600 inspirational women from our community. Be sure to check out The Chamber’s Facebook page to see all of the moments that were captured from the day.

Do you know who our September Women Connect Celebration speaker is yet? Flip toward the back of this Bridge to find out!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

DIAMOND SPONSOR

CORPORATE SPONSORS

Alerus | Alliance Management Group

American Crystal Sugar Company | Bell Bank

Bethany Retirement Living | Beth’s Place

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Security Division

Bobcat Company | Bright Futures Learning Center

CNH Industrial

Cass County Electric Cooperative

Catalyst Medical Center

Center for Plastic Surgery | Choice Bank | Cole Papers

Concordia College | Consolidated Communications

Crane Johnson Lumber Co. | Dacotah Bank

Dakota Wealth Management

Dale Carnegie Training of ND & NW MN

Delta by Marriott | Eide Bailly LLP

Eventide Senior Living Communities

First International Bank & Trust

First Western Bank & Trust | Flint Group

FM Area Foundation | Gate City Bank

Gate City Bank Investment Services

GOLD SPONSORS

Gateway Chevrolet Cadillac

GOLDMARK Property Management

Haga Kommer Ltd. | Heritage Homes KLJ Engineering LLC

Marsh McLennan Agency | Microsoft | Midco

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Minnesota State University Moorhead

MINT Brand Marketing | Mortenson

National Hospitality Services

OnPoint Insurance Services | Otter Tail Corporation

PARK CO., REALTORS | Rasmussen University

Razor Consulting Solutions

R.D. Offutt Company / RDO Equipment Co.

Red River Commodities, Inc. | ROERS

Samantha Kelly LLC | Sanford Health

SCHEELS | Thomsen Homes | The Title Company

Vogel Law Firm | Wallwork Financial

Wallwork Truck Center | West Acres Shopping Center

Western State Bank | Xcel Energy

Zerr Berg Architects, Inc.

YPN - CORPORATE CUP

We had a lively day with our members this year at Minnesota State University Moorhead for another fun event with beautiful weather, friendly competition and a lot of laughs. Thank you to all of the teams for coming out to enjoy the day, and a special thank you to our volunteers and sponsors for making it all possible. Head to The Chamber’s Facebook page to see the full photo album from the event!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!

COMPETITIVE DIVISION

1. Title Company / Dakota Fence

2. Wanzek

3. TrueNorth Steel

RECREATIONAL DIVISION

1. Ohnstad Twichell

2. Beyond Realty

3. Alliance Management Group

TEAM SPIRIT

AdShark Marketing

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PARTNER SPONSORS

FACILITIES SPONSORS

There’s fast. And then there’s fiber.

Hold on to your hat! With our Fiber ForwardSM network, you can live stream, binge, post, game, shop and everything in between without limits – on all your devices – thanks to multigigabit-level speeds. Whoooosh! All day, every day with Midco®.

THE CHAMBER’S NEW BUILDING – A BUSINESS RESOURCE HUB

In the summer of 2021, The Chamber underwent a significant exploration process for potential expansion at the current site in Moorhead and released a formal RFP to the community and membership to identify new opportunities for The Chamber’s space.

Of the 21 responses to the RFP, the proposal to colocate on the same property as the FM Convention and Visitors Bureau best reflected the creative nature of the project and alignment with The Chamber’s priorities. In early 2022, The Chamber brought this proposal to the Fargo City Commission, as The City owns the parcel. On Tuesday, May 31, The Fargo City Commission voted to lease this land to The Chamber at $1,000 per month for 20 years, with an option for three 10-year extensions.

The Chamber will be seeking expertise, labor, materials and in-kind services and materials for this major project. Please submit your information to this form if you have any questions regarding the project, involvement, in-kind work or materials, or interest in co-locating. Formal RFPs are forthcoming.

This summer we have three very special Chamber departures from three incredible staff members: Tracy, Casey and Mason! Please join us in giving them a well-deserved congratulations for the impactful work they have done for our organization and the community, and for the BIG things that they will be accomplishing personally and professionally during their next stages. We are extremely proud of all three of them and can’t thank them enough for their enthusiasm and dedication, and wish them a successful future. Scan the QR code to find out what they are up to next.

Marketing solutions for businesses serious about growth.

We believe in the strength of our community. We are proud to help local businesses reach their goals. Our business and marketing consultants have years of experience helping local businesses grow utilizing a multimedia approach.

Working together, we create strategies that will attract your target audience and get them to convert. We customize each and every campaign based on your goals and unique business needs.

Midwest Cybersecurity & Technology Summit

Tuesday, August 2 | 8 to 11 a.m.

Delta by Marriott Fargo and livestream

The intersection of technology across Midwestern industries is crucial to sustaining the region’s competitive advantage, as well as our everyday life. Communities must continue to prioritize new technology and innovation to remain stable and secure. Whether it be on the farm, in the warehouse or in the storefront, industry leaders must continue to take steps forward. The Midwest Cybersecurity & Technology Summit will bring together key lawmakers, industry leaders, and economic experts to take part in a cutting-edge discussion.

Monday, July 25 - 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Fargo

Contact Kelly Hegney at 701.451.7536 or khegney@bell.bank to register by July 12!

Author and speaker

DR. DAVID KOHL defines the challenges and opportunities for managing shockwaves in the economy.

Buckle up & proceed with caution. Learn how to manage what you can, while preparing for unexpected bumps and potholes, as you journey along agriculture’s rocky road.

LYNN PAULSON, Bell’s director of agribusiness development, shares his thoughts on how many “oncein-a-lifetime” events a person can actually experience.

DAVID MEYER of Titan Machinery and DARYL SHELTON of RDO Equipment

Co. take the AVL Hot Seat to answer your burning questions about farm equipment trends and hot topics.

Member FDIC

EGGS & ISSUES BUSINESS TRAINING

Inside Out: Reflecting on ourselves so we can better see others

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

Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream * Diversity, equity and inclusion session

What does it mean to be seen? This is a human desire that is important to all. It might look different to each of us, but it speaks to “belonging” and ultimately inclusion. Much of the conversation around diversity and inclusion is noticing the “differences,” and while differences do make a differencethere is something compelling about being known and the shared hope of belonging.

WOMEN CONNECT

Becoming Rejection Proof

Tuesday, August 23 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. Avalon Events Center and livestream

Everyone has big goals and dreams! We want to achieve so many great things, but along the way there are a few roadblocks we’ll experience, one being rejection. For many, rejection is scary! Nobody wants to hear “no,”, especially in a business setting. In this session, I’ll talk about my experiences with hearing the word “no” and give a few practical tips for becoming confident in your skills and abilities, simply by going for no.

I’ve had so many incredible opportunities just by asking crazy questions. I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences, experiences from women on my team, and tips to help others achieve their goals!

Childcare: The Workforce Dilemma

Tuesday, July 12 | 8 to 9:30 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream

Wait lists stretching for months. Costs that are overwhelming for families. Wages that are falling behind for childcare staff. More and more often we are hearing stories about struggling families and employers as it relates to childcare in the FMWF metro. At this session we are going to get childcare providers, policymakers and employers in the same room to discuss the causes and effects of this dilemma and how our community can begin to move forward with necessary and innovative solutions to our childcare situation. The FMWF metro is growing at a rapid pace, and cannot afford to have such a major workforce barrier. Join us for this crucial discussion as we actively work to solve this issue.

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

Discuss, Connect & Reflect

Tuesday, July 27 | Noon to 1 p.m.

Virtual

Join us for our monthly Discuss, Reflect, Connect event as we engage in learning about our Muslim neighbors in our community. We look forward to hosting Cani Aden as our guest speaker to share the significance of the Eid Al-Adha celebration, which falls on July 9 this year. Bring your curiosity and as always, we invite you to bring along a friend!

Community Gathering

Tuesday, July 12 | 5 to 7 p.m. Gooseberry Park in Moorhead – large shelter

POC is excited to host a family potluck picnic! This is a great opportunity to connect with other members and meet other families. Although this event is organized as a potluck picnic, there will be plenty of food and snacks for everyone. Please come even if you are unable to bring a dish.

The Chamber will provide hot dogs, veggie burgers, beverages and chips.

Colette Campbell Bremer Bank
Nancy Jost West Central Initiative
Senator Judy Lee State of North Dakota
Chelsey Steinlicht Bright Futures Learning Center
Robin Nelson Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley
MODERATOR
Zoe Bundy

Midwest Cybersecurity & Technology Summit

Tuesday, August 2 | 8 to 11 a.m.

Delta by Marriott Fargo and livestream

The intersection of technology across Midwestern industries is crucial to sustaining the region’s competitive advantage, as well as our everyday life. Communities must continue to prioritize new technology and innovation to remain stable and secure. Whether it be on the farm, in the warehouse or in the storefront, industry leaders must continue to take steps forward. The Midwest Cybersecurity & Technology Summit will bring together key lawmakers, industry leaders, and economic experts to take part in a cutting-edge discussion.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Military Appreciation Night at the RedHawks

Tuesday, August 16 | 5 to 10 p.m.

Newman Outdoor Field

Honor our region’s military through a fun, family-friendly night of baseball and patriotism. Military Appreciation Night extends an opportunity to active military personnel, veterans and their families to enjoy a night at the ballpark, complete with a picnic, inflatables, photo opportunities, entertainment and so much more. Last year, our community, Chamber members and sponsors provided over 1,000 tickets for military family members; we invite you to join us for another exciting year full of fun and gratitude.

Visit fmwfchamber.com to get your tickets or sponsor a family.

GRANDSLAM SPONSOR

Women Connect Celebration

Tuesday, September 27 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Delta by Marriott Fargo and livestream

Taking the stage this fall to deliver a captivating keynote address will be Carey Lohrenz, author, speaker and aviator. Carey Lohrenz is a dynamic communicator with an incredible story. As the first female F-14 Tomcat pilot, she was a pioneer in military aviation. Having flown missions worldwide as a combat, mission-ready United States Navy pilot, Carey Lohrenz is used to working in fast-moving, dynamic environments where inconsistent execution can generate catastrophic results. Carey is uniquely qualified in the fundamentals of winning under pressure, reducing errors, and overcoming obstacles.

As a high content Keynote Speaker, who is both motivational and inspirational, Carey Lohrenz inspires Fearless Leadership and increased team performance. Carey is often requested by name from many of the top Fortune 100 businesses. We look forward to having Carey in our community for what is sure to be another action-packed Women Connect Celebration.

Welcome to the following businesses who joined The Chamber in May! We thank each of them for their support in our mission and investment in their business and community. Please consider doing business with Chamber members first.

Apex Physical Therapy & Wellness Center –

Fargo apextwellness.com

Health Care Services

We are an outpatient private practice physical therapy clinic offering patients a more personal touch, convenience and caring than a larger medical institution. We offer all types of physical therapy with an emphasis on orthopedics, chronic pain management, manual therapy, and women’s health.

Botanical Brothers botanicalsfargo.com

Greenhouses

Our goal is to offer the best houseplant and pottery selection in North Dakota while providing a space that brings the community together. Our plant paradise will serve as a local hangout where plant enthusiasts and collectors can meet over a cup of coffee while sharing plants, knowledge, and conversation.

Checkable Medical

checkablehealth.com

Health Care Services

Checkable was founded to address the lack of options parents have when it comes to diagnosing Strep Throat.

Checkable is working to bring the first At-Home Strep Test Kit to the market, and aims to help keep you and your family out of the doctor by optimizing your health with home supplements, diagnosing with at home tests, and preventing illness and injury through expert advice.

Fargo Climbing fargoclimbing.com

Recreation

A rock climbing gym that offers bouldering walls, a climbing training zone, moon board, party room, as wells as a fitness and lifting zone.

Landon’s Light Foundation

landonslight.org

Foundations

Landon’s Light directly supports children battling a medical condition such as cancer and provides financial assistance to organizations benefiting children in similar situations. We also inspire children to grow academically, in their faith and physical well-being through scholarships and sponsorships.

Meat & Potatoes

Organizing, LLC

meatandpotatesorganizing.com

Moving – Storage

Meat and Potatoes Organizing is a professional organizing company that specializes in functional and beautiful spaces. With our proven system for decluttering and organizing, our clients are guaranteed an organized space that will simplify their daily life. Let’s get down to basics together!

Merchants Bank

merchantsbankmapleton.com

Financial Services

Merchants Bank is an FDIC insured bank committed to providing safe and sound banking practices. Merchants Bank offers the products and services of a large bank and offers the individual attention you expect from a community bank. We pride ourselves on top quality customer service and respect the confidentiality of our customers.

National Association of Manufacturers

– Upper Midwest

nam.org

Manufacturers

The National Association of Manufacturers is the voice for all manufacturing in the USA, the largest manufacturing association representing small and large manufacturers in every sector and in all 50 states.

Neo Interior Design Studio

neointeriordesignstudio.com

Design – Interior Residential/Commercial NEO specializes in all aspects of interior design with an emphasis on commercial projects ranging from retail to multi-family/mixed use.

Prairie Pest Control

prairiepestcontrol.com

Contractors – Specialty Services

Prairie Pest Control is a locally owned business serving the Fargo-Moorhead area as well as much of eastern North Dakota and lakes area in Minnesota.

Tommy’s Express Car Wash

tommys-express.com

Car Washing – Cleaning

Tommy’s Express gives you everything you need to keep your vehicle clean inside and out. Our locations open early and stay open late, so any time is a great time to shine!

Downtown Fargo

10th Ave. E., West Fargo westfargofire.org

Congrats to these members for celebrating the following milestone Chamber anniversaries!

25 YEARS

• Bremer Bank, N.A. - Moorhead

• Breadsmith

• Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead

20 YEARS

• Dakota Mailing and Shipping Equipment Inc.

• New Century Press / The Extra Newspaper

15 YEARS

• Energy Tech Systems, Inc.

• Junior Achievement

• ROERS Property Management

• North Lakes Property Management

10 YEARS

• Aerotek

• Corwin Honda

• Capfirst Equipment Finance, Inc.

• Century 21 FM Realty

• FedEx Express

• Lucky’s 13 Pub

5 YEARS

• One Oak Place

• Corwin Toyota

• Pladson Law Office, PLLC

• Meats By John & Wayne

• Runnings

• Sanford Fargo

• Window World of Fargo

Find all #FMWFMembers at our online directory at fmwfchamber.com/list.

Daren Pladsen Partnership Ryan Renner Partnership Dr. Steve Johnson Family Medicine Physician
Cyndee Thormodson Chief Financial Officer
Reid Mattson Partnership Scott Braun Partnership
Leslie DiOrio Director of Data Analytics
David Cook President Trever Kaiser Client Services Associate
Dr. Teri Johnson Family Medicine Physician
Jordan McCormick Executive Director
Lori Schmidt Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
Tami Kilzer Senior Executive Recuiter & Career Coach
Tyler Betts Editorial Graphic Designer
Jonathan Chicka Director of Digital Advertising
Alicia Rokusek Transaction Coordinator
Kayla Aipperspach Operations Manager
Savana Miller Designer – Interiors
Melissa Wright Assistant Branch Manager
Joshua Dahl Assistant Principal
Levi Dinh Magazine Designer
Kim Pladson President & CEO
Paige Anderson Special Events Manager
NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY
Steven Hay Assistant Principal
Jennifer Spitzner Assistant Principal
Ericka Urnes, Assistant Principal
Dr. Matthew Lonn Assistant Principal
Erin Spies Assistant Principal
Meghan Nelson Assistant Principal
CO., REALTORS
KID’S FITNESS AND GYMNASTICS

Nurturing Abilities, Achieving Dreams.

CHI Friendship is a nonprofit organization that supports people with disabilities. We provide the full spectrum of developmental disability services which include individualized comprehensive residential and vocational supports, allowing for full community participation.

Thank you to the community for embracing our mission by supporting all people to have meaningful employment, integrated environments, and community inclusion.

You can get involved with CHI Friendship by volunteering, donating and/or applying for employment

AGRIBUSINESS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Choice Bank

EDUCATION

PROGRAM SPONSOR

MILITARY AFFAIRS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

PUBLIC POLICY

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Beverage Wholesalers, Inc.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Bremer Bank

Cass County Electric Cooperative Essentia Health

First International Bank & Trust

MWC Advertising of Fargo Moorhead Sanford Health

Ulteig

Xcel Energy

PROGRAM & EVENT SPONSORS

Thank you to all of our sponsors that make The Chamber’s regular events and programs possible.

BUSINESS

TRAINING

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EGGS & ISSUES

PRESENTING SPONSOR

WOMEN CONNECT

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Dale Carnegie of ND & MN Enclave

Forum Communications Printing

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Bremer Bank | Choice Bank

Concordia College | Cornerstone Bank

First Western Bank & Trust

Home Builders Association of FM

Houston Engineering, Inc.

Moore Engineering, Inc.

MWC Advertising of Fargo Moorhead

ROERS | Ulteig | Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

LEADERSHIP FMWF

PROGRAM SPONSORS

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Bobcat Company

Gate City Bank

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Advanced Business Methods | Bell Bank

Bremer Bank | Choice Bank | Concordia College

Dale Carnegie of ND & MN | Delta by Marriott Eventide Senior Living Communities

First Western Bank & Trust

Gate City Bank | Microsoft

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Otter Tail Corporation | Rasmussen University

Sanford Health | Vogel Law Firm

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. | WDAY | Western State Bank

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSOR

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

Concordia College | Essentia Health | Marsh & McLennan Agency

Midco | Minnesota State Community and Technical College

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