A look at local workforce efforts | Education committee Update on events & programs
Community Builders
Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.
The
The Chamber Board of Directors Committee Chairs
VISION
The
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
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Chamber Staff
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
Member benefit highlight: Business Services
Member mailing lists
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.
• Master set includes all main contacts, partners, and other officers within member firms (approximately 2,700 names with addresses) - $150
• Key contact set includes one contact per member firm (approximately 2,000 names with addresses) - $125
• 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.
Certificates of origin
Bulk mail marketing
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.
• The mailer must all be the same size, weight, etc.
• This option cannot be used for political mailings or to solicit donations.
• 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.
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!
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.
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
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
Announcing the candidates for the 2020
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
Beyond Realty
Choice Bank
Cornerstone Bank
Enclave Companies
First International Bank & Trust
Heritage Homes
High Point Networks
Keller Williams Inspire Realty
Ohnstad Twichell
Slumberland Furniture
Tech Mahindra
Thomsen Homes LLC
TrueNorth Steel
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
AdShark
Beans Coffee Bar
Centre for Hair and Wellness
Dabbert Custom Homes
Fargo Center For Dermatology
Fremstad Law
Great North Insurance
Harmon Entertainment
Hatch Realty
Ignite Chiropractic
Luna Fargo
Maple Family Dentistry
Mojo Fit Studios
Regency Title, Inc.
Sagency
Saving Smiles Dentistry
Shack on Broadway
Vance Thompson Vision
American Gold
Gymnastics
Audubon Dakota
CAPLP - Lakes & Prairies
Community Action Partnership
CCRI, Inc.
CHI Friendship
Ethos Home Care & Hospice
Eventide Senior Living Communities
Fargo-Moorhead
Symphony Orchestra
FirstLink
Jeremiah Program
Homeward
Animal Shelter
Make-A-Wish
North Dakota
ND Assistive
North Dakota Autism Center, Inc.
Ronald McDonald
House Charities of the Red River Valley
The Great North Pole
Valley Senior Services
YMCA
YWCA Cass Clay
2020 ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon
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.
Vote for the People's Choice from June 15 to 26 at fmwfchamber.com.
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Casey Absey Blackbird Pizza
Joshua Albrecht Ignite Chiropractic
Tanya Bale The Shack on Broadway
Nikki Ness Berglund
Luna Fargo
Kristi Bixby
Fargo Antique & Repurposed Market
Jonathan Bultema
Maple Family Dentistry
Don Dabbert Dabbert Custom Homes
Erik Hatch
Hatch Realty
Nicholas Killoran Great North Insurance
Tom McDougall
High Point Networks
Brady Nash BNG Team
Dr. Rachel Ness
Fargo Center for Dermatology
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
BEST PLACE TO WORK
AdShark
Bolton & Menk
Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices Premier Properties
Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND
BNG Team
Cornerstone Bank
Dabbert Custom Homes
KLJ
Preference Employment Solutions
Vogel Law Firm
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.
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.
Goals and opportunities
• 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
?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.
Rep. Michael Howe, R–ND, District 22
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.
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:
• 47% of North Dakota hiring managers stated their company’s growth is limited by an inability to attract and retain qualified workers.
• 80% of job openings in North Dakota take more than 1 month to fill. 28% take more than 3 months.
• 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.
Minnesota’s SciTech Program
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.
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.
Further program information and grant applications can be found at workforce.nd.gov/workforce/ operationintern
The Chamber’s Education committee
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.
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.
FOF visits potential sites in preparation of Shovel-Ready Site Program efforts.
The Farm Economy –Stable, Rebounding or Declining?
Tuesday, May 12 | 7:30 to 9 a.m.
Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead
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
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
PLANNED TOPICS: workforce and rare diseases
Watch our website, emails and social media for further updates.
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.
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 Senior VP, West & South Central Franchise & License
How to Lead from Any Seat
Wednesday, June 10
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
TAK Music Venue, Dilworth
Spherion Staffing Services
Business leaders today must address new questions relating to ethics, 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.
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?
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 REGISTRATION includes lunch
These events qualify for 1.5 CPE credits through SHRM Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100
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.
Amanda Brannan Learning and Talent Management Specialist WEX Inc.
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
Tuesday, May 26 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.
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.
What do others say about Women Connect?
“ ...As a young professional juggling a career, relationship, philanthropy efforts and much more, 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."
Alexandra Floersch Bell Bank
“ 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
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.
The day ended with participants practicing their CCI presentations and attending a social at BLVD!
Photo: Border States Electric
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
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota GOLDMARK Property Management | Midco Minnesota State Community and Technical College
OFFICE WITHOUT LIMITS
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.
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
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
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK
The following YPN events were either cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19:
• Morning Buzz at Thunder CoffeeMarch 20 CANCELLED
• Business Tour - Four Star Ninja AcademyMarch 30 NEW DATE TBD
• Lattes with Leaders - Dr. Rupak GandhiMarch 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
Wednesday,July22 12:30to7:30p.m. EdgewoodGolfCourse
LEADERBOARD SPONSOR
Sponsorship opportunities are available For information, contact Darren at 218.359.0514 or ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com
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!
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 #FMWFGOLF
March’s Business After Hours was cancelled due to COVID-19, and all registrants have been moved to June.
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Thursday, June 11 | 4 to 6 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott, Moorhead
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!
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.
Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now?
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
Fast Facts
Total employees
30
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
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
Social Services
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
learfield.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 borderconstruction.net
Contractors - General Border Construction provides pre-construction, general construction, design-build and construction management services.
Casa Mexico
casamexicofargo.com
Restaurants
Come on in for the best Mexican food around! Where the food is made fresh daily.
Covis Properties (701) 478-9660
Apartments
Covis Properties offers commercial and residential investment business with properties throughout the metro.
Diabetes Care Clinic
dccfargo.com
Health Care Services
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
Education - Training
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 facebook.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.
Four Elements Therapy fourelementstherapy.com
Counseling Services
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.
G&M DIVERSITIES LLC (720) 212-4436
Consultants
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 iaplaytoinspire.com
Sports Training
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.
ND TOUGH gear ndtough.co
Retail - Stores/Ecommerce
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.
Rookery Rock Winery (701) 280-2470
Winery
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 skillcutzbarbercollege.com
Education - Training
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
Beauty Salons & Barbers
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 windsorwaffles.com
Caterers
A wonderful world of waffles! Delicious British street waffles catered at business events and local markets near you!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
June 30
Outdoor
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!
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Tickets to the game in The Chamber’s reserved section are $12 and includes $3 in Hawks Bucks.
Appareo Systems
Kiki Sjol, Production Planner
Beyond Realty
Jackie Bruenjes, Realtor®
Capital Credit Union
Andrea Berg, Branch Manager, Veterans Blvd
Concordia College
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
Kristi Martin, REALTOR
Kim Ziemer, Platinum Services Associate
ReadiTech
Justin Farkas, Regional Manager
BRUENJES BERG
SJOL
LANGEMO
EKHOLM MESS
GRIMM LEIER
BECK ROESCH NOLTE
LANG
BOE
SANDIN
CULLEN
CRONIN
HOLAND MARTIN
LORENTZ ODNEY
STREMICK VOLLAN
ZIEMER FARKAS PROMOTED
Roers
Mark Frosaker, Chief Financial Officer
Sterling Management, LLC
Randy Johnson, Asset Manager
Ingrid Scantlebury, Executive Manager
Town & Country Credit Union
Emily Brick , Branch Manager
The Village Family Service Center
Darren Carter, EAP Clinical Supervisor, Fargo
Samantha Plumski, Therapist, Moorhead
Widmer Roel PC
Arnold Bolland, Staff Accountant
Craig Hashbarger, Senior Audit Manager
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.
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.
FROSAKER JOHNSON
HASHBARGER
BOLLAND
4150 19th Avenue South Suite 302, Fargo FargoHome.com
1650 45th Street South Suite 105, Fargo cbdrx4u.com
4500 36th Avenue South Suite 300, Fargo thetitleteam.com
2761 12th Avenue South, Fargo tricitystorm.org
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