April 2020 Bridge

THE FARGO MOORHEAD WEST FARGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL. 23 NO. 8

APRIL 2020

A look at local workforce efforts | Education committee Update on events & programs

Community Builders

2 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

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

Contents

10

April 2020

ON THE COVER

A look at local workforce efforts

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

7

Announcing the

2020 ChamberChoice candidates

6 Membership Matters

8 Education committee 9 Public Policy: Asking the Expert

12 Eggs & Issues

13 Business Training 14 Women Connect

15 Leadership FMWF

17 Professionals of Color

18 Young Entrepreneurs Academy

8 Education committee:

19 Young Professionals Network

20 Business After Hours

20 Golf Outing

22 New Members 23 Member News

26 Ribbon Cuttings

Goals and efforts

AD INDEX

16 Blue Cross Blue Shield ND

26 Boulger Funeral Home

21

Member Spotlight: FirstLink

19 Cole Papers, Inc. 27 Cornerstone Bank 27 Dakota Carrier Network 17 Face and Jaw Surgery Center 11 First International Bank & Trust 19 Indigo Signworks 19 Knight Printing 23 Mengedoth Dental 25 North Dakota State College of Science 26 Otter Tail 25 Pro Resources

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

17 ReadiTech

For past issues of The Bridge: issuu.com/fmwfchamber.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 3

The Chamber MISSION The Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through leadership in advocacy, education and engagement

Board of Directors

Committee Chairs

Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance Chair

Roger Reierson Flint Group Agribusiness

Sandi Piatz Microsoft Chair Elect

Jessica Broers Bremer Bank

Ambassador Public Relations

Shawn Dobberstein Hector International Airport Treasurer Mark Nisbet Xcel Energy Immediate Past Chair

Scott Berg U.S. Bank

Ambassador Member Relations

Cory Holen Preference Employment Solutions

Business Training

Mike Dragosavich Spotlight Member at Large

VISION The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business and members

Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Education co-chair Moorhead

Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Moorhead

Louise Dardis Retired educator

Education co-chair

Kevin Christianson Paces Lodging Corporation, Property Resources Group Kyle Dorow Essentia Health

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES • Establish the region as a fullservice metropolitan marketplace.

• Be a bold voice for business through strong thought leadership and a rich policy agenda.

Erica Johnsrud Ronald McDonald Leadership FMWF House Charities Brian Shawn Midco

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Military Affairs

Chad Flanagan Eide Bailly LLP

Trevor Mathew Choice Bank

Steve Halverson Heartland Trust Company

Professionals of Color

Tim Flakoll Tri-College University

Brittany Montecuollo Sanford Health

Public Policy

Joanna Slominski Mortenson

Katie Hutton Eide Bailly LLP

Peter Stenehjem First International Bank & Trust

Women Connect

Steve Swiontek Gate City Bank

• Build a place of belonging to best serve members’ interests.

Danne Doering Choice Bank

Jeff Volk Moore Engineering, Inc.

Young Professionals Network

Chamber Staff

Jim Parsons

Interim CEO, VP of Finance & Operations @FMWFJim

Tracy Meckler

Julie Doggett Information Systems Administrator @FMWFJulieD

Darren Dunlop

Business Development Manager @FMWFDarren

Darin Feir

Marketing Design Coordinator @FMWFDarin

Tracy Powell Mason Rademacher

Membership & Director of Events Advertising Sales Manager and Programs @FMWFTracyM @FMWFTracyP

Public Policy & Workforce Development Coordinator @FMWFMason

Tyler Fischbach Multimedia Marketing Coordinator @FMWFTyler

Amanda Huggett

Manager of Communications & Marketing @FMWFAmanda

Bobbi Rehder Casey Sanders

Events Coordinator @FMWFBobbiJo

Manager of Membership @FMWFCasey

Erica Solberg Public Policy Intern

Alyssa Lakoduk

Professional Development Coordinator @FMWFAlyssa

Katie Mastel

Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager @FMWFKatie

Mickayla Thompson Julie Yourczek

Member Relations Coordinator @FMWFMickayla

Office Administrator @FMWFJulieY

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.

Printed by Forum Communications Printing 4 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

A note from

The Chamber We will persevere COVID-19 continues to alter the way we live and do business on literally a minute-to-minute basis. What this means for our families, our friends and our co-workers is still being sorted out, of course, and will be for weeks or months to come. What we do know for sure is that things will be different once we get past this crisis. And, we will get past it.

As of this press date, we are still open for business, actively monitoring the situation, sorting through the many resources available, and doing our best to support our members.

Government officials on both sides of the river have acted quickly to the continuing threat of COVID-19. Our governors, mayors, city commission and council members, as well as county commissioners, have made this their #1 priority. Both ND Governor Doug Burgum and MN Governor Tim Walz have formed teams working on the issue around the clock.

Where does this leave your Chamber? Committed, as always, to the continued success of you and your businesses. We will keep you informed on the issues with helpful resources for you to utilize. Online tools and communication will be vital for us to maintain the spirit of our business community. We know these are hard times, especially for our smaller businesses feeling real pain right now, but we will continue to do whatever we can to help.

We are an organization based on relationships. Those relationships have never been more important, and we encourage you to reach out to each other during this time of uncertainty, as we will reach out to you.

We have created a page to house all the information we have so far, with links we believe are most helpful to you at this point from the CDC, SBA, OSHA, and state and local agencies. This page will be continuously updated with the most recent information as we receive it. Again, we will continue to monitor available resources, and stay in regular touch on our website, through further email and social media, with what we find.

These are unprecedented times, and above all, our health and well-being are paramount.

If you have any questions, concerns or resources to share, please contact us. Find our COVID-19 page at fmwfchamber.com/covid-19-updates.

To follow recommended guidelines and practice social distancing, we have canceled or postponed all previously scheduled Chamber events through the end of April. Current event status is noted on the pages to follow. Please stay tuned on further event updates as this situation develops. Our website will be the best place to find the most current information. Thank you for your support and understanding.

Stay safe,

Tom Dawson, Dawson Insurance Chair, Chamber Board of Directors

Jim Parsons, The Chamber

Interim CEO

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 5

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Member benefit highlight: Business

Services

Member mailing lists

Bulk mail marketing

The Chamber offers member mailing lists for purchase so you can connect with your fellow Chamber members. To protect our member’s privacy and information, we create the mailing labels (or send an Excel file to your printer) and give to you for your onetime use. This is a great way to gain access and share new services to the main contact at a local business for a cost-effective price.

This benefit is for members only.

Currently, a first-class stamp is 55 cents per piece and guarantees your mail to deliver between 1–5 business days.

•

•

•

With bulk marketing mail, the per piece cost ranges from $.292–$.302, which is approximately a 24-cent per-piece savings.

Save on mailings by using The Chamber’s mail marketing permit: •

The mailing must be 200 pieces or more.

Master set includes all main contacts, partners, and other officers within member firms (approximately 2,700 names with addresses) - $150

•

The mailer must all be the same size, weight, etc.

•

This option cannot be used for political mailings or to solicit donations.

Key contact set includes one contact per member firm (approximately 2,000 names with addresses) - $125

•

Members are responsible for applying permit to all pieces, sorting mailing, complete the USPS 3602 postal form, delivery to the West Fargo Post office and payment at drop off.

Custom set by business categories, ZIP codes, or employee count - $75 minimum; also depends on custom set information report Note: Mailer content is subject to pre-approval by The Chamber.

Interested in learning more details about how to get started with a bulk mail option?

Contact Julie Yourczek at 218.233.1100 to learn more about how to take advantage of these savings!

Certificates of origin We provide stamping and sealing of certificate of origin documents at no charge while non-members may purchase for $50 per page.

What is a certificate of origin?

• Document that certifies a shipment’s country of origin.

• It is used between members of a trading block or where special privileges are granted to goods produced in certain countries.

• Certificate of origin is commonly issued by a trade promotion office, or a chamber of commerce in the exporting country.

APRIL CHAMBER ANNIVERSARIES Congrats to these members for celebrating the following milestone Chamber anniversaries this month!

20 YEARS MOOG, Inc. Payroll Professionals Principal Financial Group

15 YEARS Advanced Business Methods, Inc. Corporate Technologies, LLC Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop H&R Block John Deere Electronic Solutions Small Business Administration

10 YEARS Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. Interstate PowerSystems

5 YEARS Archer Real Estate Services Foss Spine and Wellness

Many of you are probably adapting to working at home and navigating new challenges.

No matter your situation, know that we are here for you. Please reach out if you need any assistance! Our team is ready and willing to help you get the resources you need.

Here for you,

Here for business 218.233.1100 | info@fmwfchamber.com

6 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

Frank’s Lounge GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo Icehouse Fit Moen Portable Toilets Moorhead Youth Hockey Association Obermiller Nelson Engineering Skaff Apartments Sparklight Business Three Lyons British Pub

Announcing the candidates for the 2020

Vote for the People's Choice from June 15 to 26 at fmwfchamber.com.

The following businesses and entrepreneurs successfully submitted applications for this year’s ChamberChoice Awards, and are now considered candidates in their respective categories.

All of these candidates can truly be proud to be in such good company. Help us congratulate them all!

NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Animal Health Clinic BNG Team

#ChamberChoice

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

American Gold Gymnastics

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

AdShark

Audubon Dakota

Casey Absey

Beans Coffee Bar

CAPLP - Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership

Joshua Albrecht

CCRI, Inc.

Tanya Bale

Centre for Hair and Wellness

Blackbird Pizza

Ignite Chiropractic

Dabbert Custom Homes

CHI Friendship

The Shack on Broadway

Choice Bank

Fargo Center For Dermatology

Ethos Home Care & Hospice

Nikki Ness Berglund

Cornerstone Bank

Fremstad Law

Eventide Senior Living Communities

Beyond Realty

Enclave Companies

Great North Insurance

First International Bank & Trust

Harmon Entertainment

Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra

Heritage Homes

Hatch Realty

FirstLink

High Point Networks

Ignite Chiropractic

Jeremiah Program

Keller Williams Inspire Realty

Luna Fargo

Homeward Animal Shelter

Ohnstad Twichell

Maple Family Dentistry

Slumberland Furniture

Mojo Fit Studios

Tech Mahindra

Regency Title, Inc.

Thomsen Homes LLC

Sagency

TrueNorth Steel

Saving Smiles Dentistry

Make-A-Wish North Dakota

Luna Fargo

Kristi Bixby

Fargo Antique & Repurposed Market

Jonathan Bultema

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BEST PLACE TO WORK AdShark Bolton & Menk Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND

Maple Family Dentistry

BNG Team

Don Dabbert

Cornerstone Bank

Dabbert Custom Homes

Erik Hatch

Dabbert Custom Homes

Hatch Realty

Nicholas Killoran

ND Assistive

Great North Insurance

North Dakota Autism Center, Inc.

Tom McDougall Brady Nash

Shack on Broadway

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River Valley

Vance Thompson Vision

The Great North Pole

KLJ Preference Employment Solutions

High Point Networks

Vogel Law Firm

BNG Team

Dr. Rachel Ness

Fargo Center for Dermatology

Valley Senior Services YMCA YWCA Cass Clay

2020 ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon

PRESENTED BY

DATE CHANGE Wednesday, August 26 Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Because the spread of COVID-19 remains a concern and out of an abundance of caution, The Chamber has made the decision to move this event. Please let us know if you have already registered and cannot make this new date.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 7

Inside The Chamber’s Education committee Why an education committee?

The Chamber recognizes the vital importance of promoting partnerships between educators and employers to address the workforce, economic and business development needs of our region.

With thousands of open jobs in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metro, the need to develop new programs and highlight those that already exist to train and retain workers has never been greater to ensure we achieve our economic growth and prosperity aspirations.

Goals and opportunities

We are working to affect:

•

•

Communication between business leaders and educators by providing monthly meetings for them to develop and foster relationships while discussing committee initiatives.

•

Positively impact the perceptions that exist regarding the investment, and return on investment, for internship programs by tracking hire-on rates of newly developed internship programs.

•

The understanding and awareness among PK-12 students and parents regarding the vast array of career options and the pathways to pursuing those careers by providing exposure to various career opportunities.

•

The ability of K-12 educators to ensure students on the “career” track get 75 hours of meaningful workplace learning by working to provide additional experiential learning opportunities.

•

Purpose statement

The Education committee will work to cultivate relationships between educators and employers to expand experiential learning opportunities (internship, job shadow, apprenticeship, etc.) for PK12 & higher education students as well as develop sound workforce retention programs for our region.

•

Increase the number of Chamber members who provide experiential learning opportunities.

• Develop intern criteria guidelines for businesses to follow when developing and enhancing internship programs.

Educate employers on already existing statewide programs to help them capitalize on services, grants or funds already provided, through conversational roundtables with program-specific experts Provide additional career exploration and exposure tools to introduce PK-12 students to various career opportunities

Want to join?

This committee meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 a.m. in the Chamber board room, and is open to any employee of a Chamber member organization. For more information, contact Mason Rademacher, Public Policy & Workforce Development Coordinator, at mrademacher@fmwfchamber.com.

About Experience Fargo Moorhead West Fargo As The Chamber focuses on workforce efforts, we are always exploring options for programming relevant to developing talent and connecting education to business. One idea, born out of a past Leadership FMWF Community Change Initiative, is called Experience Fargo Moorhead West Fargo. Experience will aim to bridge the gap between students, Chamber member businesses and our region to create a community where engagement and service are an integral part of life. The goal is to increase area workforce by retaining local higher-education students through community engagement, exposure to local businesses, and service learning.

Watch for more information to come on this effort.

8 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

ADVOCACY

ASKING THE EXPERTS

About ND’s Career Workforce Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program In conjunction with the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program roundtable with Commerce Commissioner Michelle Kommer (info on the next page), The Chamber talked with Representative Michael Howe (R – 22) on why he sponsored HB 1171, the legislation that created the program.

Rep. Michael Howe, R–ND, District 22

Give us an overview of the Skilled Workforce Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program and why you supported it.

The program was developed to serve as a private-public partnership between the state and private sector businesses seeking to hire skilled workers across the state. Every dollar invested by the private-sector will be matched, 1-1 by the state. Broadly, there are two aspects to this program: providing student scholarships and repayment of student loans.

With nearly 30,000 open jobs across the state, many of which are skilled positions, I supported this legislation to help encourage students to attend college in North Dakota, incentivize them to stay here, and even encourage some individuals to go back to school. As a state, we need to do everything we can to recruit more people to live and work within North Dakota and if we can attract and retain highly skilled workers, it creates the potential to open up new opportunities and attract new businesses to our state. The state of Washington created a program similar, and it is estimated that by 2025 nearly 16,000 students will be served and nearly 81% of those individuals will live in the state following graduation. Regardless if you are Republican or Democrat, live on the East or West side of the state—solving the workforce shortage of the state is something we can all unite behind.

How much has the state invested in the program?

Additionally, of the dollars appropriated, how much has been utilized?

Between the two options of the program, the state has invested $6 million: $3 million for scholarships and $3 million for loan repayment. Every dollar that the state commits, requires a match from private-sector businesses, meaning the total program value is $12 million. For scholarships, the dollars a student receives cannot exceed the cost of attendance and has a lifetime student maximum of $17,000. For the loan repayment, it cannot exceed the maximum of $5,667/year with a lifetime maximum of $17,000 per student. There is no maximum that an employer can contribute to the program.

With the program in such an infancy state, since the program went live in July of 2019, there have been 30 approved applications for scholarships totaling $201,214 and three approved applicants for loan repayment totaling $43,505.16.

Will this program need to be renewed again next biennium?

No, this program will not need to be renewed next biennium as it is a continuing appropriation. The money appropriated will remain available until all of the funds have been exhausted.

Who can take advantage of this program? Specifically, in regard to programs, majors and college institutions.

As mentioned, there are two different aspects to the program: student scholarship and student loan repayment. To be eligible for either of the options, the individual must live and work within the state of North Dakota. The career must also be defined as ‘skilled’ or in a high demand and emerging occupation (the list can be found at ndus.edu/career-builders).

To specifically qualify for the scholarship option, the student must commit to live and work within the state for at least three years following graduation, or else they would be subject to paying the money back. To qualify for loan repayment, the employee must have been hired as of 2019.

?

Got a question for a legislator, public official or other expert? Let us know what’s keeping you up at night and we just might help get you answers. Email mrademacher@fmwfchamber.com to submit a suggestion.

PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. Moore Engineering

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 9

Minnesota’s SciTech Program

Workforce programs across states and our region

At the end of February, North Dakota Commerce Commissioner Michelle Kommer visited The Chamber and held a roundtable conversation with business and education leaders from across our Fargo and West Fargo communities to help them learn how they can take advantage of the North Dakota Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program.

To learn more about this program, please see this month’s Asking the Experts section with Representative Michael Howe on the prior page.

SciTech is a Minnesota-based program that works to connect students in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) with Minnesota’s small businesses (less than 250 worldwide FTEs).

This connection is created through paid, hands-on internships that provide students the opportunity to gain experience in their desired field and businesses the opportunity to receive financial assistance for approved internships and students. The program offers companies a one-to-one wage match, up to $2,500 per intern.

Examples of STEM related fields that have been able to capitalize on this workforce program include: aerospace, defense, agriculture, food science, biotechnology & life sciences, engineering services, fuels, energy, it/computer technology, mining, materials, and manufacturing & processing.

Further program information and grant applications can be found at scitechmn.org.

North Dakota's Operation Intern Operation Intern is a North Dakota based program designed to expand the number of internships, workplace experiences and apprenticeship positions within North Dakota in the state’s targeted industries.

For the 2019–2021 biennium, there is a total amount of $855,000 available and employers can receive up to $4,000 per intern, up to five interns, in each year of the biennium. All grant dollars provided by the state must also be matched by the business one-to-one.

Commissioner Kommer also spoke to the need of the state to continue to dedicate time and resources to solving the workforce needs of North Dakota, outlining key facts that face our state:

The grant process for the May 1, 2020 funding cycle will be open from March 25 to April 12. Priority is given to small businesses in the targeted industries of energy, advanced manufacturing, added-value agriculture, tourism, and technology-based business.

If your industry is not on this list, it does not exclude you from potentially receiving a grant.

• 47% of North Dakota hiring managers stated their company’s growth is limited by an inability to attract and retain qualified workers.

Further program information and grant applications can be found at workforce.nd.gov/workforce/ operationintern.

• 80% of job openings in North Dakota take more than 1 month to fill.

28% take more than 3 months.

The Chamber’s Education committee

• In 2017, North Dakota had the largest percentage gap between the number of highly educated people who left the state and the number who moved to North Dakota (19.9%), meaning ND is suffering the largest relative loss of home-grown talent of any state in the nation.

• In 2019, the North Dakota population grew by just .53%— down from an all-time high of 2.98% in 2013.

• Over the next 10 years, 21% of North Dakota businesses expect to lose at least half of their staff to retirement.

10 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

The Chamber recognizes the vital importance of promoting partnerships between educators and employees to address the workforce, economic and businesses development needs of our region. With thousands of jobs open across our metro, the need to develop new programs to train and retain workers has never been greater to ensure we achieve our economic growth and prosperity aspirations. The Education committee works to cultivate relationships between educators and employers to expand experiential learning opportunities (internships, job shadow, apprenticeship, etc.) for PK-12 and higher education students in our region.

Fueling Our Future update With the first quarter of the year coming to a close, Fueling Our Future (FOF) has a lot to be proud of, with great progress on multiple projects. Below are updates on just a few of the ongoing efforts. Visit fuelingourfuture.net for more information.

Campus FM This new project, approved in January, has proven exciting with extreme potential impact for our community. Addressing the workforce shortage, this program engages various community partners who are already working hard to retain talent, in a region-wide collaborative plan to increase the retention rate of college graduates. A group of dedicated community leaders have already met, starting initial conversations and formulating a plan. More to come on this large-scale collaborative project.

Business Accelerator In early February, Plug and Play kicked off their Fargo business accelerator focused on agriculture technology. This is great news for our community! FOF continues to support this initiative as we are thrilled to welcome Plug and Play to our community and look forward to the companies they will attract to our region. We are excited to connect with, support and grow the various emerging ag-tech startups that go through the accelerator program. Fargo operations are expected to begin in late May.

FOF visits potential sites in preparation of Shovel-Ready Site Program efforts.

Shovel-Ready Site Program A powerful economic growth tool soon to be added to our region’s toolbox is FOF’s Shovel-Ready Site Program. This program will improve our ability to attract new business and support regional companies critical to the overall growth of our community. FOF has engaged Schneider Strategy Consulting for this program. Initial work kicked off in early February with Phil Schneider visiting our region for stakeholder meetings and site visits. The initial phase of work includes creating the program, identifying sites, and marketing two to four locations.

What’s your next move?

Blaze a new trail.

You started your business to shake things up. To offer a better, more efficient solution for your customers. Why would you expect any less of your bank? Our experts can offer you solutions to help you bank smarter.

BANKING | MORTGAGE | INSURANCE* | TRUST & INVESTMENTS*

FIBT.com *Not FDIC or any federal agency insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value 0274_11-19

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 11

EGGS & ISSUES

The Farm Economy–Stable, Rebounding or Declining?

Tuesday, May 12 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

!

April’s Eggs & Issues was cancelled due to COVID-19. This event was moved to May, with a new date to follow the CDC’s recommendations. Please join us on the 12th for this agriculture-focused event!

Future Eggs & Issues plans June 2 and July 7

workforce and rare diseases

PLANNED TOPICS:

Watch our website, emails and social media for further updates.

Agriculture is known to be the backbone of our economy.

This session will hone in on the current farm economy with debate if it is stable, rebounding or declining. Our speakers will discuss the fiscal, political, related industry and environmental variables associated with the farm economy. They will dive into how these areas are impacting the economic state of the agriculture industry, as well as how they are being affected by the agriculture economic situation. Join us for a lively discussion surrounding one of our area’s largest industries—agriculture—as well as hot breakfast and networking.

REGISTRATION includes breakfast Chamber members: $32 in advance | $42 at the door Non-members: $52 in advance | $62 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Want to suggest another topic or speaker?

Tell us your Eggs & Issues suggestions by emailing kmastel@fmwfchamber.com.

At Eggs & Issues, we strive to provide topical and timely events to keep you in the know. Every month, you can expect to hear from local experts sharing information relevant to our region and business community. And you can always count on a hot breakfast and networking.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Bank of the West | Beverage Wholesalers | Bremer Bank | Cornerstone Bank Dabbert Custom Homes | Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead | Houston Engineering KLJ | Livewire | Midwest Radio of Fargo Moorhead | Minnesota State Community and Technical College Moore Engineering | ROERS | Sparklight | Wanzek Construction | Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. 12 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 12

!

April’s event with Jodi Duncan has been cancelled due to COVID-19.

Workforce Transformation: Navigating the New Normal Wednesday, May 13

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

Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

Not since the advent of the Industrial Revolution has the workplace undergone greater transformation than it has in the last 25 years.

Lynn Billing Business leaders today must address Senior VP, West & South Central new questions relating to ethics, Franchise & License Spherion Staffing Services transparency, diversity and inclusion, purpose-driven business initiatives and more. Amid a continuously shrinking pool of talent, employers need new approaches as they face an everwidening array of challenges in how to effectively recruit, engage and retain the talent they need to grow and prosper.

Attendees at this session will learn why shifts in where and how work is performed can influence corporate culture, communications and collaboration.

REGISTRATION includes lunch

BUSINESS TRAINING

How to Lead from Any Seat Wednesday, June 10

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

TAK Music Venue, Dilworth

So often we think that in order to be a leader, we must have a certain title, “this many” years of experience, or a particular level of knowledge. How often does this belief stop you from speaking up, sharing ideas, politely pushing back, or asserting yourself day-to-day?

Amanda Brannan Learning and Talent Management Specialist WEX Inc.

Leadership is not a position, it’s a mindset—and the mindset of leadership can be adopted by anyone regardless of position, tenure or expertise. At this session, attendees will learn how to assert their own leadership within their current position, and walk away with practical tips on how to lead up, down and across their organization.

Chamber members: $32 in advance | $42 at the door Non-members: $52 in advance | $62 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

These events qualify for 1.5 CPE credits through SHRM

#FMWFTraining

About Business Training

Looking for opportunities to advance your career and skill set? That’s exactly what Business Training sessions are all about. Each month, you can expect a new topic tailored to the issues you need to know from local experts. This educational programming seeks to develop the professional, personal and leadership skills of Chamber member employees, and networking events foster connections with thousands of others in the business community, all over lunch.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Discovery Benefits | GOLDMARK Property Management Minnesota State Community and Technical College | Wanzek Construction, Inc. FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 13

WOMEN CONNECT

!

April’s event on coaching has been rescheduled due to COVID-19. The event will now take place on August 25.

Why NOT Me? Overcoming Self-Doubt

What do others say about Women Connect?

Tuesday, May 26

this event is often the only time of the month I get to slow down and do something just for me. Without this program, my commitment to personal and professional growth wouldn’t be possible.

3:30 to 5 p.m.

Delta by Marriott

There is an old saying that you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

Self-doubt is often a primary driver for not taking that shot. This session will explore key motivators of self-doubt, and challenge women to get out of their own way and feel confident that they deserve success, happiness and fulfillment.

...As a young professional juggling a career, “ relationship, philanthropy efforts and much more,

"

—Alexandra Floersch Bell Bank

Jessica Fyre

SVP General Counsel AgCountry Farm Credit Services

/jessicafyre-674773a

This session will explore the key motivators of self-doubt; challenge individuals to have the courage to risk disappointment; discuss how to overcome and move on from disappointment; and explore the importance of sponsorship (people who are actively advocating for your next promotion or raise).

Charity of the month: Red River Children's Advocacy Center - Please consider bringing journals/notebooks, art supplies, Playdoh, bubbles, or stress-reducing items, to donate to them.

REGISTRATION Chamber members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door Non-members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

What is Women Connect?

Monthly events with local speakers to bring women together through targeted topics. A PUSH program also aims to offer outside-the-session small group meetings and support.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

I’ve attended Women Connect “ events since the beginning and found them to be inspiring and impactful. ... Being a part of planning and seeing these events come to fruition was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career thus far, all because I would walk into each event and there was the positive energy of women meeting for the first time, sharing stories and ideas, connecting one another and helping one another in their careers and personal lives— THAT is powerful.

"—Carrie Carney

Eventide Senior Living Communities

“

My experience with Women Connect was life changing. The application process was easy, the speaker support was phenomenal, the venue fully supportive of their mission to connect women. Ironically, my topic – Self-Doubt – created a lot of self-doubt leading up to the event. When I say ‘life changing,’ I conquered a fear of speaking publicly, but made significant relationships with other women going through difficult seasons of life. Their feedback is the gift that will continue forever. Sharing experiences and stories is not easy—especially on a stage. Women who attend these events will undoubtedly leave stronger, more knowledgeable, empowered and connected.

"

—Briana Scearcy Stoneridge Software

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Bell Bank | Bremer Bank | Choice Bank | Delta by Marriott | Discovery Benefits | Essentia Health | Eventide Senior Living Communities First International Bank & Trust | Gate City Bank | Microsoft | Minnesota State Community and Technical College | Office Sign Co. Otter Tail Corporation | Rasmussen College | Vogel Law Firm | WDAY | Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. | Western State Bank 14 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

LEADERSHIP FMWF

Leadership class learns about local culture

March’s Leadership FMWF session was focused on both organizational and community culture. We spent the day at Border States Electric’s new facility and were able to start with a tour. It was a great opportunity to see a brand-new facility and learn more about the organization and culture at BSE. After our tour, we had the opportunity to hear the story of an organization that is a staple in our community, Sandy’s Donuts.

Mark Ostlund, second generation owner of Sandy’s, joined us to talk about the history of Sandy’s and the expansion Sandy’s has seen in recent years. Following this presentation, Jill Staffne, Scheels, joined us to talk about the history of Scheels and their organization culture.

The afternoon started with a presentation on organizational culture and values from Brianne Hoffman, Wanzek. This was a great opportunity to see how an organization is working to maintain their culture and understand when values change for an organization. Our final presentation of the afternoon was Joe Burgum, Folkways. Joe gave a great presentation on how Folkways is building community with their programming and events.

Photo: Border States Electric

The day ended with participants practicing their CCI presentations and attending a social at BLVD!

Get ready…

Applications for the 2020–21 Leadership class are now open!

Be one of 40 professionals focused on leadership development, community exploration, community change and networking! Monthly sessions and community-based group projects will empower current and emerging leaders, expose you to issues facing our region and explore professional development and civic engagement.

Apply by May 15 at fmwfchamber.com.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 15

N O R T H D A K O TA S T Y L E

Let our experts help you custom-design an employee benefits package that works for you today and helps you get to where you want to be tomorrow.

Let’s get started on your employee benefits plan.

EmployerPlansND.com

Jo Hatfield Fargo • 701.282.1153

Mitch Kudrna Fargo • 701.282.1446

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

AN OFFICE WITHOUT LIMITS

As we continually evaluate COVID-19 information, to follow recommended guidelines and practice social distancing, we have cancelled all POC events through the end of April:

• Networking Before 9 at Sandy’s Donuts, Osgood - March 20 CANCELLED

Please watch our website, social media and email to receive the latest updates on this situation and future event information. Thank you for your understanding.

POC MISSION STATEMENT To impact the FMWF community by creating inclusive opportunities for Professionals of Color to develop personally and professionally through meaningful engagement and a sense of belonging.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

Made possible with a phone system from ReadiTech.

Our phone system includes apps for Android and iOS which allow you to take your office extension with you anywhere. Answer calls via the office phone extension and transfer to colleagues without asking customers to call another number. Increase your productivity and make sure you never miss a call again.

Call us today for your new business phone system.

800.279.4796 www.readitech.com 4870 Rocking Horse Circle S. Fargo, ND 58104

Specialists in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Face & Jaw Surgery Specialists

Ask your doctor or dentist for a referral for the following services:

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota GOLDMARK Property Management | Midco Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Charles Crago Jonathan Gray DMD, MD, FACS

DDS

Tuan Bui

MD, DMD, FACS

Wisdom Teeth • Dental Implants Bone Grafting • Oral Pathology Orthognathic Surgery Facial Trauma • TMD

Fargo, ND 4344 20th Ave. S. 701.239.5969 • 800.565.5969 www.faceandjawsurgery.com FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 17

YEA! YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS ACADEMY

YEA! Update Due to concerns with COVID-19 and the semi-finals competition being rescheduled, our local YEA! Investor Panel Shark Tank has been postponed. It is currently set for May 13, but please watch our website and social media for the most up-to-date information.

About this year’s businesses Sheyenne High School juniors Cayden Anderson and Michael Toy love to give back to our community, and wanted to find a way to make volunteer opportunities easier to access. Ty Boutwell, an 8th grader at Ben Franklin Middle School, had two problems: his dog had trouble picking up the frisbee after he threw it and when she did, it was wet with slobber. Tate Jacobson, Discovery Middle School 7th grader, has a passion for running, and loves to be fast. Maddy Christensen, a West Fargo High school Junior, wanted to create something that made her feel confident, and helped others feel confident as well. Seventh grader Gavin Keller needed a safe and fast way to haul equipment. Isabelle Sunderlin, a sophomore at

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Davies High School, is looking to help her peers have great photos, without needing a reason. Seth Hansen, a Davies High School Senior, knows you take great footage on your family vacations, and he knows just how to make those memories last. Sheyenne High School Freshman, Ameera Gaal, wanted to find an affordable way to jazz up her hijab. Allison Koetz, a Central Cass senior, is a believer in holistic healing and essential oils, but doesn’t love the price barrier. Evelyn Gould, Ben Franklin Middle School 8th grader, knows giving cards can be meaningful, and has an idea to make this timely tradition even more special. Spring Ma, a sophomore at Fargo North High School, is fed up with the amount of plastic silverware that is wasted at her school daily. Jadyn, an 8th grader at Ben Franklin Middle School, is looking to keep her hair tame.

Join us at the Investor Panel to find out how each of these students addressed a problem, created a solution or followed a passion!

Fun fact: Did you know YEA! is actually an international

organization, with programs all over the U.S, India and China?

Ours is the first and only program in North Dakota!

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Aldevron | Bremer Bank | Concordia College | Dawson Insurance | Eide Bailly LaQuinta Inn & Suites | Minnesota State University Moorhead | National Hospitality Services North Dakota State University | Office Sign Company | Radio FM Media | TrueNorth Steel 18 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

Friends of YEA!

American Crystal Sugar Dabbert Custom Homes Talecris Plasma Resources Inc. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

The following YPN events were either cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19:

• Morning Buzz at Thunder Coffee March 20 CANCELLED

• Business Tour - Four Star Ninja Academy March 30 NEW DATE TBD

• Lattes with Leaders - Dr. Rupak Gandhi March 31 NEW DATE TBD

• Networking to Business: Financial Wellness Roundtable - NEW DATE TBD

Please watch our website, social media and email to receive the latest updates on this situation and event reschedule information.

ABOUT YPN It is our belief that a community influenced by young professionals is a community that attracts and retains them. Core to the Young Professionals Network’s strategic agenda is the belief that the more informed, involved and networked young professionals are, the more influence they will have on the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community.

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Delta by Marriott

Four-Color Printing Specialized Coatings Foil & Embossing Die Cutting

Fulfillment Center Variable Data Printing Direct Mailing Service I-printNow Storefront

Fargo, ND 58103 USA ph: 701.235.1121 knightprinting.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 19

CHAMBER EVENTS

2 ly 2 u J . y, sda 7:30 p.murse e n o d o

We 12:30 t e Edg

d wo o

Go

lf C

Step right up and get ready for the summer’s annual golf tournament for Chamber members where Edgewood Golf Course serves as the big top. It’ll be a balancing act as we juggle fun, networking and friendly competition. There might not be an elephant or bearded lady, but we invite you to have a fair time with this year’s circus theme!

LEADERBOARD SPONSOR

Sponsorship opportunities are available

For information, contact Darren at 218.359.0514 or ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com.

!

Sponsors and golfers are invited to get creative! The best themed golfer and Tee Box sponsor will be named at the awards presentation following the tournament.

Only a few team spots remain; hurry and sign up today!

Registration is open at fmwfchamber.com.

March’s Business After Hours was cancelled due to COVID-19, and all registrants have been moved to June.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

#FMWFBAH

Thursday, June 11 | 4 to 6 p.m.

Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead

JUNE CO-SPONSORS

#FMWFGOLF

Join us for a summertime evening of networking, exclusively for Chamber members. Business After Hours is the place to meet after work and relax in a casual environment where you can mingle with your peers, make new connections, visit with vendors, enter to win door prizes, and enjoy hors d’ourves and drinks. Learn more about other organizations in the region and end your day on a great note.

Booth space is currently sold out.

Contact Bobbi at 218.233.1100 or brehder@fmwfchamber.com to join the waiting list.

Bring your best shot for June's Game of Skillz!

The exciting Game of Skillz commences here, where the ultimate award awaits one lucky attendee. Depending on the number of attendees, the cash pot is around an estimated $1,000! Bring a friend, because the more people there, the higher the value!

20 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT FirstLink

FirstLink is your 24/7 local community resource helpline. Anyone can call/ text if they need someone to listen, to help support them, if they need

resources, or are worried about themselves or a loved one. FirstLink started as a “hotline” and during that time served the Cass-Clay communities

with volunteers. In 2010, they began supporting the entire state of North Dakota and parts of Minnesota. The call center is celebrating their 50th year of providing help and hope this year-2020. In 2019, FirstLink had

another record year. They handled 60,148 contacts. (That is calls and texts, ingoing and outgoing. 13,446 of those contacts were suicide related.)

— Cindy Miller, Executive Director

What makes your organization unique?

We are the only organization that answers the National Suicide Lifeline in North Dakota and in parts of western Minnesota, and are the only 2-1-1 helpline in the state.

Fast Facts

Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now?

Total employees 30

We have two programs that we need more financial assistance for: The Community Addiction Navigator and the Caring Contact Program. Outcomes from these programs are so encouraging. Some people need extra help when dealing with addiction and suicide, and we support and encourage them to reach out for help and hope.

What is one thing you most want others to know about you?

You never know what life may have in store for you. A perfect example is the flood and COVID-19 virus! We are an essential service here. We are assisting with all kinds of disasters and with daily life concerns 24 hours a day. Just remember if you need resources…call us. If you are struggling with an addiction, behavioral health or suicidal concerns for yourself or for a loved one…call us!

"Working at FirstLink has given me the opportunity to cause a meaningful difference in someone's life every time I work. That feeling is so rewarding and I know the services and people here are truly valued by FirstLink and the surrounding community" FirstLink Team Member

Year founded 1970 Office locations Fargo Leadership Cindy Miller Executive Director Jennifer Illich, Director of Helpline Operations Ashley Ladbury Hrichena, Training and Education Coordinator FirstLink has two national certifications: Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS) and the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). In 2019, FirstLink was chosen the winner of North Dakota Association of Nonprofit Organizations (NDANO) Partnership Building Award for FirstLink’s Caring Contacts program. FirstLink is providing follow up care to those who have been discharged from a hospital, emergency room, public health care facility, or has self referred to get extra support after struggling with suicidal thoughts or attempts. Around 27 ND health care facilities and FirstLink have partnered to help provide continuity of care.

We love sharing the cool things Chamber members are doing! We’re looking for more businesses with an interesting history, cool story or just doing something spectacular. Tell us who deserves to be featured— you can submit your own company! Send us your suggestion at bit.ly/BridgeSpotlight or email ahuggett@fmwfchamber.com.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 21

NEW MEMBERS We welcome the following businesses who have invested by joining The Chamber. We encourage all members to conduct business with each other. When you do, let them know you learned of their business through The Chamber!

Benson Psychological Services, PC bensonpsychologicalservices.com ocial Services S Benson Psychological Services is an outpatient mental health clinic serving ages 5 and up. We provide individual, group and family therapy, addiction services, as well as psychological and forensic evaluations.

Bison Sports Properties l earfield.com/partner/northdakota-state-bison-sportsproperties Marketing Services NDSU Athletics’ multimedia rights holder, manages all aspects of the rights relationship providing corporate partners numerous opportunities in which to bolster their own brand through such assets as venue signage; event sponsorships and promotion; corporate hospitality; radio and television; as well as digital engagement and visibility via the official athletics website, GoBison.com.

Border Construction orderconstruction.net b ontractors - General C Border Construction provides pre-construction, general construction, design-build and construction management services.

Casa Mexico c asamexicofargo.com estaurants R Come on in for the best Mexican food around! Where the food is made fresh daily.

Want to find all our members?

Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com.

22 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

Covis Properties ( 701) 478-9660

Four Elements Therapy f ourelementstherapy.com

ND TOUGH gear dtough.co n

partments A Covis Properties offers commercial and residential investment business with properties throughout the metro.

ounseling Services C No matter who you are, where you came from or what your story is, you’re welcome here. Your mental health is what matters to us. They provide diagnostic assessments including DC05 and ongoing therapy services for early childhood, families, couples, adolescents, adults and the elderly. They also offer Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Incredible Years, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, ParentChild Interaction Therapy and Trauma-Informed Child-Parent Psychotherapy.

etail - Stores/Ecommerce R ND Tough gear offers customized screen print items and affordable boutique items.

They focus heavily on giving back to the community as well as to the AO1 Foundation as Carson Wentz is the inspiration for their business.

Diabetes Care Clinic ccfargo.com d ealth Care Services H Diabetes Care Clinic is a nurse practitioner owned and operated specialty clinic serving those living with diabetes. Christina Dahl NP is board certified in Advanced Diabetes Management and has four years of experience providing excellent diabetesrelated care.

Elite Steering Driving School elitesteering.com ducation - Training E Elite Steering Driving School offers a range of driver services for residents of North Dakota. Their goal is to supply new and/or experienced drivers with supportive driving experiences to enhance their operational driving skills and knowledge.

Fargo Masonic Lodge f acebook.com/ FargoMasonicFamily Associations Built in 1970, the Fargo Masonic Center is home to Shiloh Lodge, Sunrise Lodge, East Gate Lodge, and Daylight Lodge, as well as appendant Masonic bodies including the Scottish Rite, York Rite and Order of the Easter Star. It is also the location of the Scottish Rite Children’s Language Center, which provides free speech therapy to qualified children in need.

G&M DIVERSITIES LLC ( 720) 212-4436 onsultants C G&M DIVERSITIES LLC offers diversity consulting in leadership, management and diversity consulting; diversity training and education; diversity and organizational culture consulting; diversity consulting for school districts, local governments, police, military, colleges and universities; diversity consulting and conflict resolution and diversity and inter-cultural competence consulting.

Inspired Athletics i aplaytoinspire.com ports Training S Inspired Athletics is a basketball program that offers more than just onthe-court workouts. They go the extra mile and offer an “Athlete’s Lifestyle Program.”

This program helps enhance the mental and physical development of the athlete.

Rookery Rock Winery ( 701) 280-2470 inery W Located adjacent to Agassiz Shores Orchard and Vineyard, Rookery Rock Winery offers domestic winery featuring locally sourced grapes, fruits and berries. Their tasting room and event venue sits on the shoreline of Lake Agassiz.

Skill Cutz Barber College s killcutzbarbercollege.com ducation - Training E Skill Cutz Barber College provides hair cutting, facial treatment, head massage services, and barbering training classes to the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area.

Skill Cutz Barbershop & Salon skillcutz.com eauty Salons & Barbers B Skill Cutz Barbershop & Salon is filled with Fargo/Moorhead’s most passionate barbers and stylists; they provide a full range of services for every hair type and all ethnicities.

Windsor Waffles indsorwaffles.com w aterers C A wonderful world of waffles!

Delicious British street waffles catered at business events and local markets near you!

MEMBER NEWS: COMPANIES Congrats to the following Chamber member companies for their exciting announcements! Make sure to congratulate their achievements and recognition next time you see them around town. Want to see your own company news here? Send your press releases to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com. We want to share your good news (for free!) just because you are a valued member.

702 Communications announced its acquisition of Computer Wrench, a Managed Service Provider based in Moorhead. Computer Wrench opened in 2004. They offer computer repair, networking, and managed IT services, as well as computer sales. Computer Wrench operates out of Moorhead and has customers in 10 states.

With careful and thoughtful planning, both organizations and their respective Board of Directors for CHARISM and the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley, have agreed on a merger of the two organizations under Boys and Girls Clubs of the Red River Valley name and organizational structure.

The merger of the two organizations is set to take place in June 2020 with the start of summer programs and activities.

For the 21st time, Edward Jones is named one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For by Great Place to Work and FORTUNE Magazine.

Edward Jones took the No. #7 spot on the prestigious list, the 16th year the firm has ranked in the top 10.

KLJ announced that three projects have recently been recognized with award recognition. One, the recent reconstruction of Sheyenne Street and the Interstate 94 Interchange has received the award for “Outstanding Engineering Design” by the Fargo-Moorhead Engineers Club and North Dakota Chapter 4 NDSPE.

A new report by Minnesota Community Measurement (MNCM) names Essentia Health as a high performer in several quality and safety measures for the second consecutive year. MNCM’s annual report ranks Essentia among nine medical groups out of 213 from Minnesota and neighboring states that achieved high performance on at least half of the measures for which each organization is eligible. Essentia also was ranked a high performer among chroniccondition measures, with aboveaverage rates on five of the six.

Marco’s workplace culture was recognized by The National Association for Business Resources by being named to the organization’s Best and Brightest Company to Work For list. The Best and Brightest Program honored 540 national-winning organizations from a pool of 5,000 nominations that showed dedication to workplace engagement and commitment to promoting a happy and healthy workplace.

DEDICATED TO THE COMPLETE HEALTH OF EVERY SMILE WE SEE!

Media Productions is merging with Super Studio. Effective February 1, 2020, the enhanced Super Studio is positioned to produce all forms of advertising and marketing content across all channels. The combination of companies creates a true production studio with a range of services.

Dawn Koranda will assume the director role for the new enhanced Super Studio as Lee Massey moves toward retirement. With this merger, Media Productions will relocate their offices to the Pioneer Plaza building in downtown Fargo.

SAVE THE DATE FOR

Military Appreciation Night at the RedHawks • •

Partner with patients to provide custom oral health goals!

On time appointments Preferred Provider

•

2585 23rd Ave. S. Suite C, Fargo 701.356.1280

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

7am - 3pm

drdanmengedoth.com

Tuesday, June 30

Newman Outdoor Field

Honor our military members and their families at this patriotic evening that is fun for the whole family.

A pregame show will feature special events before a swearing in ceremony for new recruits and first pitch from a veteran, then it’s an evening of baseball!

Tickets to the game in The Chamber’s reserved section are $12 and includes $3 in Hawks Bucks.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 23

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE Appareo Systems

Kiki Sjol, Production Planner

Beyond Realty

Jackie Bruenjes, Realtor®

Capital Credit Union

Andrea Berg, Branch Manager, Veterans Blvd

Concordia College

SJOL

BRUENJES

BERG

LANGEMO

BECK

ROESCH

NOLTE

SANDIN

LANG

GRIMM

LEIER

BOE

CRONIN

CULLEN

EKHOLM

MESS

Bree Langemo, Director, Entrepreneurship Center & Assistant Professor

Dakota Plains Realty Tara Beck, Realtor Eddy Roesch, Realtor

FM Area Foundation

Gary Nolte, New Board Member Toni Sandin, New Board Member Katrina Turman Lang, New Board Member

First Western Insurance

Jennifer Grimm, Insurance Agent Paul Leier, Insurance Agent

Flint Group

Kelsey Boe, Media Planner

Horace High School Dr. Pam Cronin, Principal

KW Inspire Realty

Michael Cullen, Realtor Jessica Ekholm, Realtor

Network Center, Inc.

John Mess, Senior Security Advisor

Office Sign Company

Katy Lorentz, Director of Customer Success Ian Odney, Account Manager Kaley Stremick, Sales & Marketing Manager Sam Vollan, Vinyl & Print Specialist

Onsharp

Reid Holand, Software Developer

Park Co. Realtors

PR

O

M

O

LORENTZ

TE

D PR

O

M

O

ODNEY

TE

D PR

O

M

O

TE

STREMICK

D

VOLLAN

Kristi Martin, REALTOR Kim Ziemer, Platinum Services Associate

ReadiTech

Justin Farkas, Regional Manager PR

HOLAND 24 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

MARTIN

ZIEMER

O

M

O

FARKAS

TE

D

MEMBER NEWS: PEOPLE Roers

Mark Frosaker, Chief Financial Officer

Sterling Management, LLC

PR

FROSAKER

JOHNSON

SCANTLEBURY

O

M

O

T

ED

Randy Johnson, Asset Manager Ingrid Scantlebury, Executive Manager

Town & Country Credit Union Emily Brick, Branch Manager

BRICK

The Village Family Service Center

Darren Carter, EAP Clinical Supervisor, Fargo Samantha Plumski, Therapist, Moorhead

PR

O

M

O

CARTER

Widmer Roel PC

D TE

Arnold Bolland, Staff Accountant Craig Hashbarger, Senior Audit Manager PLUMSKI

BOLLAND

How to submit Email your company or people news to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com or visit fmwfchamber.com/member-news.

HASHBARGER

OTHER NEWS Dustin Mitzel, CEO of Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops has been appointed to the Wine & Spirits Guild of America Board of Directors. The Wine and Spirits Guild of America is comprised of about 40 primary members who are the leading wine, spirits and beer independent retailers.

Jessica Westgard Larson, Principal Financial Group, has earned membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table. She is an 11 – year qualifier of the MDRT.

Great for owners

Two West Fargo Public Schools’ elementary principals have been awarded the 2019-2020 North Dakota Association of Elementary School Principals Golden Apple Award: Tabatha Joyce, Eastwood Elementary School, and Jerry Standifer, Harwood Elementary School. Additionally, four West Fargo Public Schools’ elementary principals have been awarded the 2019-2020 North Dakota Association of Elementary School Principals Bell Ringer Award: Andree Hayes, Early Childhood Center & Special Programs; Chris Kalsow, Westside Elementary School; Brian Peterson, L.E. Berger Elementary School; and Jody SjolinNelson, South Elementary School.

North Dakota State College of Science TRAINND | APPRENTICESHIPND | SKILLSND

NDSCS.EDU/TRAINING FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 25

CELEBRATIONS: FEBRUARY RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS

FpG Realty / Flom Property Group

Guaranty & Title Co.

1-year anniversary

Relocation

4150 19th Avenue South Suite 302, Fargo

4500 36th Avenue South Suite 300, Fargo

FargoHome.com

thetitleteam.com

Sanford Health

Tri-City Storm Soccer Club

Grand Opening of Hospice Unit

Remodel

737 Broadway North, Fargo

2761 12th Avenue South, Fargo

sanfordhealth.org

tricitystorm.org

Thank you to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating a sweet treat to each of our ribbon cuttings!

Your CBD Store Grand opening 1650 45th Street South Suite 105, Fargo

cbdrx4u.com

Our streamlined operation as a two-platform company delivers shareholder value through our high-performing, low-cost electric utility and disciplined manufacturing companies.

MANUFACTURING

ELECTRIC

OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY BTD MANUFACTURING T.O. PLASTICS NORTHERN PIPE PRODUCTS VINYLTECH CORPORATION

NASDAQ:OTTR | www.ottertail.com

26 THE BRIDGE • APRIL 2020

DELIVERING

Confidence PROUD TO SERVE NORTH DAKOTA’S CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FOR OVER 20 YEARS, including government, schools, health care, finance, business, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Reliability

Responsiveness

99.999% Network Uptime

24/7 Network Support

CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION WITH OUR NETWORK ENGINEER TODAY AT

DakotaCarrier.com CARRIER ETHERNET | DATA CENTER | CLOUD COMPUTING | DEDICATED INTERNET ACCESS | DATA STORAGE & RECOVERY

FMWFCHAMBER.COM • 27

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Post Office Box 2443 Fargo, North Dakota 58108-2443 fmwfchamber.com

ISO: Big Ideas

Apply to speak at a Chamber event.

We’re looking for presenters at Business Training and Women Connect events for The Chamber’s upcoming 2020–21 fiscal year. Do you or someone you know have big ideas, proven successes, tips and tricks or an inspirational message to share with others?

We want to hear about it! Share your expertise with the community by submitting a proposal to present at a Chamber event.

Applications will be open throughout the month of May at fmwfchamber.com.

Watch for more information to come in next month's Bridge and online!