Community Builders
Community Builders are a level of Premier Partner businesses committed to improving the area by investing in our programs and events.
MISSION
The Chamber promotes economic growth and prosperity for business and its members through leadership in advocacy, education and engagement
VISION
The Chamber is the leader in ensuring the growth and prosperity of our regional business and members
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES
• Establish the region as a full-service metropolitan marketplace.
• Be a bold voice for business through strong thought leadership and a rich policy agenda.
• Build a place of belonging to best serve members’ interests.
Board of Directors
Chamber Staff
A note from the President
Dear members,
This month we are shining a light on the vibrant, young talent we have in our great community. Young professionals are the heart of our organizations, neighborhoods and community culture, and they play an integral role in the future of our region.
In my early 20s, I started engaging with my local chamber of commerce as a member and volunteer. This involvement allowed me to form meaningful relationships and connections with peers and leaders throughout the community, and I was eventually approached by the chamber president who insisted that I apply to take over her president/CEO position at the Fridley Chamber. I didn’t feel ready or qualified in the slightest, yet she took me under her wing for six months of mentorship, and at age 24, I was officially running that chamber of commerce. I share this story because it was her commitment, mentorship and investment in me as a young professional that shaped and elevated my life and career path. I’m sure that many of you reading this have a similar story or memory, and we must emphasize our commitment to the young leaders in our organizations and community. At The Chamber, we believe that a community influenced by young professionals will be more globally competitive, thriving and successful. We are extremely fortunate to have five universities in our region with over 35,000 students, and we are committed to creating opportunities to further connect, engage and develop these students to retain and intertwine them into the future fabric of our community.
In this July issue of The Bridge, we are highlighting some of our dynamic programs for young professionals and are looking forward to expanding and broadening these opportunities for our YPs. So if you are one of these future community or business leaders and you have an interest in engaging with us, please reach out. We look forward to working alongside each and every one of you.
Shannon Full President & CEO
Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce
Announcing a new partnership between The FMWF Chamber and SCORE
(Senior Core of Retired Executives)
With small businesses in focus, we are excited to share that we will be working together to create strategic and intentional opportunities for businesses to gain mentorship opportunities through SCORE trained and vetted mentors. We are so excited to collaborate with SCORE to help small businesses gain access to leaders, resources, and trainings that will help our overall business community.
What is SCORE?
SCORE, America’s premier source of free and confidential small business advice for entrepreneurs and small businesses, is a nonprofit resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). We have over 300 SCORE offices across the country offering free business mentoring and low- or no-cost workshops.
For over 50 years, SCORE’s thousands of working and retired business professionals have volunteered to support the success of small business nationwide. SCORE business mentoring is free and confidential.
Mentorship
STEP ONE: Connect with Casey Sanders, VP of Engagement, at 218.359.0528 or csanders@fmwfchamber.com to set up your discovery conversation. During this conversation we will discuss your needs, goals, questions, and gather some information.
STEP TWO: A SCORE representative will assist in matching you with a mentor based on the initial discovery conversation.
STEP THREE: Connect. Yes, it really is that simple as 1,2,3
The discovery conversation and mentorship through SCORE is offered at no cost to you the member.
Becoming a Mentor
Connect with Casey Sanders to get on the list of potential mentors in our area. There are many ways you can support this effort through mentorship such as business mentorship, subject matter expertise, marketing support, or as a presenter.
Score website: fargo.score.org
Public Policy Update
Thank you for supporting and investing in The Chamber’s policy work. Your ongoing engagement and investment in this work enable us to continue to be a catalytic leader and enhance Fargo Moorhead West Fargo’s vibrant business community. We are proud to represent you and your interests at all levels of policymaking.
Our public policy program of work centers around advocacy and education, and we have big plans in the works to further elevate our impact. Going forward, we will continue to be engaged in policymaking in both North Dakota and Minnesota, as well as federally. In order to further support our efforts in all three locations, we have recently employed a government affairs agency, Primacy Strategy Group, to serve as our on-the-ground advocates.
To maximize our advocacy influence, we are committed to holding our elected officials accountable for their votes by developing a legislative voting report. This will further bring attention to which legislators are steadfast supporters of business-friendly policies. Our team is also dedicated to supporting employers who encourage their employees to serve as elected officials. Through a candidate identification program, The Chamber will present the business
case for supporting these employees and provide preliminary campaign navigation tools to encourage business-minded individuals to run for office.
Our Public Policy Guide is a staple of our policy education efforts. In addition to this publication, we plan to create a small business advocacy guide with resources designed to empower small businesses and individuals to use their own voice and experience to cultivate policy change. Other policy education efforts include our Eggs & Issues series, Legislative Preview Summit and Legislative WrapUps. We will continue to host such events to educate and connect business leaders and elected officials.
Once again, thank you for supporting and investing in the policy work we do at The Chamber. Together we are stronger.
Nurturing Abilities, Achieving Dreams.
Thank you to the community for embracing our mission by supporting all people to have meaningful employment, integrated environments, and community inclusion.
You can get involved with CHI Friendship by volunteering, donating and/or applying for employment
CHI Friendship is a nonprofit organization that supports people with disabilities. We provide the full spectrum of developmental disability services which include individualized comprehensive residential and vocational supports, allowing for full community participation.
Meet the board members
What do you like best about serving on The Chamber board?
Tom Dawson
Chairman, Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Company
Year joined the board: 2016
Other Chamber Involvement:
Fueling Our Future Governance Board
Please briefly share your professional experience.
I was born and raised in Fargo and began my 48 year insurance career the day after graduating from college when I joined my dad and uncle in the insurance agency that my grandfather started. My main responsibilities have been bringing new clients to the agency and caring for their servicing needs, as well as the day-to-day management. I also focus on finding the right people, driving our strategy and building and maintaining our culture. My son Alex is now the fourth generation in our business.
I consider the FMWF Chamber one of the preeminent organizations in the Upper Midwest, so serving on the board has not only been energizing and fun but an honor. Certainly one of my favorite things about serving on the board is getting to know and interact with other board members who are leaders in the community and listening to and learning from their opinions. The Chamber is a loud and respected voice for all businesses, large or small, and I take a lot of pride in making decisions and taking actions that positively impact these businesses that drive our economy.
How else are you involved around the community?
I have also been active with The Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, The Fargo Moorhead Area Foundation, The YMCA, The Plains Art Museum and my church, First Presbyterian.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
Much of my spare time is spent with my family, which includes my wife, our three sons, their spouses and six precious grandchildren.
What’s your best piece of advice for future leaders?
There is nothing more important than integrity and surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you.
Chad Flanagan
Partner in Charge, Fargo Office, Eide Bailly LLP
Year joined the board: 2019 Other Chamber Involvement: Fueling Our Future Governance Board
Please briefly share your professional experience.
I’ve served in a variety of roles at Eide Bailly including as a CPA and business appraiser. In my current role as Partner in Charge of the Fargo office, I focus on client experience, working with the community, and fostering culture at Eide Bailly. Driving employee engagement and development is also a priority for us.
What do you like best about serving on The Chamber board?
I’ve learned a lot about how much work goes into making this community a great place to live and work. The business climate, Chamber and other community organizations are top notch. We are fortunate to have this level of talent and dedication in our community.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
I enjoy family time, running, golf and watching baseball in the summer time. I try to take in some Redhawks games whenever I can.
What’s your best piece of advice for future leaders?
Mentors can be so important for career development; seek one that you respect and admire, but in the end, be yourself and play to your strengths.
Tami Norgard
Managing Partner, Vogel Law Firm Year joined the board: 2020 Other Chamber Involvement: FMWF Leadership, Speaker at Women Connect
Please briefly share your professional experience.
My legal practice includes water projects and energy issues. I’ve worked on the Red River Valley Water Supply Project for 20 years, which will deliver water from the Missouri River to this region during droughts. I’ve been involved with the FM Diversion Project, the Oakport Dike project and have lived on the river, so understand flood control. I work with electric cooperatives and utilities that face huge challenges to keep a reliable and affordable power supply in the current regulatory environment. Originally from Arnegard, I’m particularly proud of my work supporting water projects for Western North Dakota communities and fracking. I also help landowners and mineral owners with oil and gas easements and disputes with oil companies. The state leaders play a key role in the future of these projects and, in turn, our community. Being engaged with legislative initiatives is particularly enjoyable.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
I run the Maah Daah Hey Half Marathon in Medora each summer in late July. The mountain biking is unbelievable!
What’s your best piece of advice for future leaders?
Seek out opportunities to be part of things much bigger than you. The personal development, connections made, and future opportunities that can arise are well worth the time and energy invested.
Meet a committee chair
Celine Paulson
Cash Management Officer, Choice Bank Chamber committee: Young Professionals Network Other Chamber involvement: YPN Subcommittees
What would you like others to know about the work of your committee?
YPN’s Leadership Committee strives to provide a welcoming environment for young professionals to network, develop professional skills, tour local businesses and volunteer in our community.
What do you like most about being involved with The Chamber?
I enjoy being involved with The Chamber because of all the people I get to work with and the opportunity we have to make a positive impact on our community.
What is the best professional advice you have ever received?
“You didn’t get here by luck, you earned it.” A mentor once told me this—It is my constant reminder to always work hard and everything else will work itself out.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
My husband, Tanner, and I enjoy being outside—whether that is walking our dog at the park, going biking, being on the water, or simply sitting out on our deck.
Meet the Chamber staff—New hires!
Malinda Olhoft Engagement Support Specialist
Please briefly describe what you do in your position.
I am responsible for front desk operations, including answering calls and assisting office visitors. I maintain and support the membership management database, as well as coordinate and send monthly member communications following the membership retention plan. I also assist with internal admin duties and attend events as necessary.
Shane Olmscheid Engagement Strategist
Please briefly describe what you do in your position.
As an Engagement Strategist for The Chamber, my primary roles include the scheduling, organization and implementation of ribbon cutting ceremonies, membership engagement and advertising sales.
What do you love about your role so far/ what are you looking forward to?
What do you love about your role so far/ what are you looking forward to?
Everything, including being a part of helping the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area grow as a community of cooperative businesses, schools, and people.
How else are you involved around the community?
Therapeutic Horseback riding horse handler volunteer for NDSU Bison Strides Therapeutic program. My horse is used for people with disabilities for physical therapy, behavioral therapy for comfort and for military veterans with PTSD.
What are a few fun facts you can share about yourself?
I love horses, people, and helping others learn new things. I am an adventurous and outgoing person who likes to try new things—skydiving with my son for Mother’s Day was one of my favorites.
What is something interesting or unexpected you learned about The Chamber since starting?
There is always something going on and something new being planned for the future. It is a busy place and I love being busy and getting to help and greet people both on the phone and in person that come into the Chamber; I love to help people any way I can!
As I finish up my second week with The Chamber, my favorite part so far has been attending each ribbon cutting ceremony and building relationships with our Member & Public Relations Ambassadors. I love being out in our community meeting new people and learning about the businesses in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area.
How else are you involved around the community?
Aside from working at The Chamber, I am also on the Member Services Team at the YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties and a volleyball official for Fargo Parks and Rec. Health/Wellness and volleyball are two big passions of mine, so I’ve enjoyed meeting people and making connections in those aspects of my life as well.
What are a few fun facts you can share about yourself?
I placed in the Top 10 of the Midwest WE Fest Karaoke Contest, I played college volleyball on the NDSU Men’s Club Team, and my dream vacation would be to Sydney, Australia.
Why would you recommend businesses or professionals get involved in The Chamber?
Whether you’re a huge corporate company or a single owner of a small business, The Chamber provides a phenomenal opportunity to connect you with other businesses and professionals in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area. Becoming a part of The Chamber not only benefits you, but our community as a whole.
Spirit of the Sandbagger
A Public Art Project
THE INSPIRATION
In Spring of 1997, preparation efforts began for what would turn out to be one of the most threatening floods in recorded history. Volunteers answered the call to help with sandbagging efforts that would help fight the flood that came. The community again answered the call and raised sandbag dikes to protect Fargo-Moorhead in 2001, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2019 and prepared sandbags as recently as 2020. During each of these years and in many of the previous years, ‘the spirit of the sandbagger’ brought everyone together to save the community.
ABOUT THE ART
This project is meant to honor those who played a role in protecting our city from historic flooding, with a lasting structure to be placed on two existing pillars at Riverside Gardens to the east of City Hall. A Request for Proposal was issued in 2020 by the Fargo Lions Club, resulting in the selection of professional artist Karen Bakke and metal artist/fabricator Brock Davis, to further develop the vision and create a gateway arch between the existing city-owned pillars to celebrate the spirit, determination and success of the city’s residents of all ages, sexes, and backgrounds in fighting the floods. It will highlight the importance of the community’s relationship with the river - through turmoil and calm—and provide a lasting legacy for the community as a whole.
Once completed and installed, the artwork and bridge structure will be over 28 feet long and 17.5 feet high.
The pillars as they currently exist Artist rendering of the finished product
STRATEGIC BUSINESS INSIGHTS FROM ALERUS
REIMAGINING YOUR PLACE OF BUSINESS
When rapidly changing economic or consumer trends hit a business’s bottom line, they might need to reimagine their business plan as well as their space. Businesses may find themselves wrestling with questions like: What is the role of the physical space my business occupies – to make things, sell things, or provide a place for individual work? Are space requirements different today than they were in the past?
Owners also may discover that unprecedented events also often bring with them a chance to reimagine how they operate and can even bring opportunity. The key is creativity and flexibility. Owners who are just starting or who are transforming their business plans have a chance to re-imagine their place of business to adapt with the times.
Consider the role of a place of business and if it is changing
Do you need to make more of a product and need more factory and warehouse space? Are more people working remotely, reducing office needs? Is delivery a bigger part of your restaurant’s business? If these changes are permanent, or even long-term, investing in relocation or renovation may make sense.
Get creative about how your business uses space
Some offices can operate well remotely and may reduce office space while maintaining headcount and output. Others are experimenting with sharing space between people with staggered work schedules. Perhaps a restaurant will reduce seating space, but add a dedicated pick-up area. Experimentation may lead to advantageous evolution.
Look for opportunity in the midst of change
Big shifts in how businesses operate open gaps that savvy businesses can fill. More online shopping means more real estate devoted to distribution; changing health codes could drive a surge in certain services or renovations; needing less office space could actually reduce overhead and increase margins. Look for ways to capitalize on these changes.
Have a solid plan in place as you seek financing
Reinvention isn’t just trying new things. Like any new business decision, it requires research, intuition, and a plan that makes sense. If you are seeking a new location or capital to upgrade your business, be ready to show how your future cash flow can be improved with this investment to give lenders the confidence to offer the best terms possible.
Be patient and deliberate with investments
In some cases innovation needs to be tempered by patience. Some changes to business and consumer behavior will be permanent, others temporary. Talk with advisors about how to balance temporary, reversible adaptations with long-term investment. Lines of credit and short-term loans may help you weather a month of uncertainty, while a new mortgage may be the right tool for a major transformation.
Transformative times call for partners who can help a business navigate uncertainty. Alerus has the tools and expertise to help businesses not only think through possible courses of action, but can provide the financing necessary to make that next phase of the business a reality. Talk to an Alerus advisor today.
Parks and Rec: Exploring FMWF
July is National Park and Recreation Month!
We hope you get out and celebrate by visiting your favorite park in our region. Parks are also the space in which kids get to be kids and parents get to watch and play along as their children learn new skills, play with others and make memories. These spaces are designed to be fun, challenging, and serve as a convener of community where all are welcome to come to a shared space and play!
To celebrate our parks this month, we sat down with local mom, Sarah, and her children, Maura (10), twins Elsie and CJ (8), and Juliana (6) to hear about the park challenge that she and her kids have taken on and the impact it had on her and her family.
Sarah is a creative stay-at-home mom who quickly realized that structure, especially in the summer, is important. She knows how much physical activity, the ability to run, jump, climb and play outside of their home, contributes to the overall health of her children. After posting a picture each day on social media of their experience, she started
getting responses and questions from other moms. They started to ask Sarah what the park pick was and that is when she decided to try and visit 50 different parks in one summer!
Sarah began posting the kid pick of the day and welcoming other moms to join them. She realized how much she ended up looking forward to these daily outings, as being a stay-
If you want to learn more about National Park and Recreation Association check out their website at nrpa.org. The Association is asking for others to support this month by sharing a story about your favorite park memory—just don’t forget to include #OurParkAndRecStory
Park Facts
(QR codes go to each city’s parks directory)
40 + parks
150 + parks
30 + parks
Dilworth
Oakport
Horace
Parks & Rec: Connect, Network, Explore with YPN
At The Chamber, we love utilizing these parks to bring young professionals together to network, try new activities, experience our community parks and enjoy time outdoors together. Check out some of our recent gatherings in these spaces and learn more about the YPN program!
Why does YPN exist?
We believe that a community influenced by young professionals is a community that attracts and retains them. The more informed, involved and connected young professionals are, the more positive influence they have on the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community.
What to Expect
The Young Professionals Network will give you the opportunity to meet exceptional people, explore businesses you may not have known about and participate in engaging and rewarding events around the community. You will also have access to numerous professional development opportunities with your peers, as well as with established and accomplished leaders. Get ready to expand your network!
Did you know?
Our Young Professionals Network and Professionals of Color (POC) programs have reciprocity; visit our website at fmwfchamber.com/poc to see what events are coming up next with the POC group!
During my time as a YPN member I have gained useful professional skills, grown my network of professionals who I can work with and call upon as experts, learned about the Fargo-Moorhead community and the opportunities available here, and have also met incredible people who have become long-term personal friends. I am so grateful my first boss encouraged me to challenge myself and join YPN because my career has been positively impacted and my personal life is richer because of my membership!
Caitlin Stoecker, Razor Consulting Solutions
POC picnic
YPN golf & network
First
Success is about progress, and is founded on hard work. First International Bank & Trust can bear some of the load, taking the work out of managing your accounts. Our experts can custom tailor banking solutions to best suit your operations, so you can get back to business.
ULTEIG ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS
Turning on a light. Filling a glass with water. Taking the long way home. Behind these simple acts is an enormously complex infrastructure network. And for over 75 years Ulteig has been an engineering partner to the essential heroes responsible for building, maintaining, and revitalizing our essential infrastructure. Our industry-defining, innovative solutions don’t just transform and modernize vital infrastructure, they help to make communities safer, stronger, cleaner, and healthier. START YOUR NEXT PROJECT WITH ULTEIG.
2021 Young Professionals Best Place to Work:
HISTORY AND GROWTH
Border States started in 1952 at one location in North Dakota and has grown to include more than 100 locations in 22 states. We are one of the largest 100% employee-owned companies in the United States.
The
award and what it means
for Border States
We were honored to be recognized as the Young Professionals Best Place to Work—we work very hard to attract, retain and develop young professionals. To be recognized like this in a community with so many outstanding organizations in really something.
“While we have more than 2,400 employee-owners across the country, we understand that our strong culture of ownership and giving back means we each have a stake in one another’s success,” said Lindsey Cernik, Organizational Development Consultant.
Border States has built a strong commitment to helping employeeowners grow in their careers. We focus on learning and development and are big believers in a “work hard and have fun” mentality. We use engagement surveys to listen to employee-owners and learn how we can improve, make action plans and execute them.
At Border States, you can start at an entry point, such as in the warehouse, and continue to learn and grow your career at Border States, like Jon Becker, who started as a Warehouse Associate at our Fargo branch in 2008. He has served in several roles and now serves as the Branch Operations Manager, overseeing daily operations for the branch.
“I have had the opportunity to watch the company grow along with my opportunities,” Jon said. As a young professional with a family, Jon said he appreciates the ability to build personal wealth for retirement through Border States’ Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
“Beyond all this, I have always felt valued. I am very fortunate to be a part of an organization that cares about the people who work there.”
Creating hygiene kits
United Way school supply drive
DIVERSITY
Employee-owners from across the country and diverse backgrounds serve on our grassroots Unity Council to promote diversity, equity and inclusion.
Soedie Torres Correa is a Unity Council member who moved to the United States in 2016 from Puerto Rico. Soedie struggled to find a job doing work she loved—accounting.
“I started to put my resume’ on online pages, filled 81 applications for jobs and…nothing,” Soedie said. “No one wanted to give me a chance because my English was rough.” Then she received an email from HR at Border States.
“I started to read about Border States, and I fell in love with what I read,” she said. “I thought, this is perfect—more than what I wanted.” Soedie received an offer for the accounts payable job. “Border States gave me a chance when no one else would,” Soedie added.
COMMUNITY
Our Volunteer Policy provides 16 hours annually dedicated to volunteer service for every employee-owner to the nonprofit of our choice. Our young professionals are encouraged and mentored to serve on community boards, lead projects and volunteer. The company also makes community investments of nearly $1 million in nonprofit support each year.
What are your long-term goals and vision for Border States?
During our nearly 70 years in business, our mission and values haven’t changed. We provide value to our customers by delivering innovative product and supply chain solutions. We treat our customers’ businesses like our own and focus on doing the right thing. If we take care of our customers, vendors, each other and the community, the rest will take care of itself.
Border States employees pose “5” for five years without an OSHA-recordable injury
Corporate Cup 2021
We are grateful to have had another fun and competitive YPN Corporate Cup this year with 44 teams and over 650 individuals. Thank you, to the teams, committee members, volunteers and sponsors for making this such a great day. Congratulations to this year’s winning teams…
RECREATIONAL DIVISION
COMPETITIVE DIVISION
SECOND PLACE Choice Bank
THIRD PLACE Starion Bank FIRST PLACE WEX
THIRD PLACE Cornerstone Bank
SECOND PLACE BNG Team
ULTIMATE
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
FOOTBALL TOSS
OBSTACLE COURSE
FRISBEE
KICKBALL
RAINBOW ROAD RELAY
HUMAN FOOSBALL
TARGET CHIPPING
VOLLEYBALL
TUG O WAR
10th Annual
Appreciation
This annual event brings together hundreds of military members and supporters allowing our community to honor and recognize them and their families with a night full of patriotism and fun for the whole family.
The evening will kick off with a picnic for our military families, a pregame show featuring patriotic events, a special first pitch and an evening of baseball with many surprises in store!
Purchase your ticket and sit with us in The Chamber’s reserved section. Tickets are $12 and include $3 in Hawks Bucks.
Register to attend the game or sponsor a family at fmwfchamber.com.
THE URGENCY OF CYBERSECURITY
Thursday, August 19 | 8 a.m. to noon | Holiday Inn Fargo and livestream
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
How the FBI is
Tackling the Cyber Threat— What
We
Are Seeing and What is of Concern
John Bonhage, FBI Minneapolis
John Bonhage has been a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation for over 25 years and has worked on criminal, counterintelligence, counterterrorism, environmental, white collar crime, insider threat and aviation security matters at FBI Minneapolis. He also served on the FBI SWAT team for 20 years and is an FBI certified Firearms Instructor.
SA Bonhage is currently the Private Sector Coordinator for Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota and serves as the conduit for critical infrastructure protection information exchange between the FBI and corporate entities in the Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota area. In addition, SA Bonhage is the InfraGard coordinator for the Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota chapters
InfraGard is an alliance for national infrastructure protection that provides a secure environment for information exchange between the government and private and public sectors.
HOW TO PROTECT AND PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS AGAINST BIG THREATS.
The average cost of a single data breach was $3.86 million in 2020 according to IBM. Get real-world advice to avoid getting hacked. Small businesses are not immune, and cybercriminals know that smaller businesses rarely have the resources to defend themselves against ransomware and cyber extortion.
IT HAPPENED TO ME.
Hear from local organizations who have experienced cyber intrusions and what they could have done to stop them.
Cass County Electric
Choice Bank
Concordia
Eide Bailly
Flint Group
CORPORATE SPONSORS
Heartland Trust
Houston Engineering
Midwest Radio of F-M
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Nodak Insurance
Wanzek
Western Bank
BUSINESS TRAINING
Creating a Successful Project Environment
Wednesday, July 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Inn Fargo and livestream
Have you ever been assigned to lead a project, but don’t have experience in project management? In the ever-changing world we live in, projects will become an integral function within companies. People will need to have the capabilities and skills to turn vision into reality, and deliver financial and societal value. This training will focus on four key principles related to project management: begin with the end in mind, stakeholder engagement, project team dynamics and good processes.
Developing a Comprehensive Communication Strategy
Thursday, August 5 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream
Today’s communication channels make it easier than ever to tell your business story; however, you need to be smarter than ever in how you tell your story. Learn the best way to craft a comprehensive communication plan that will serve as a roadmap to your business success. Attendees will learn the basic structure needed for a successful strategic approach.
CHAMBER 101
Connect. Engage. Maximize.
• In person: Tuesday, August 17 | 4 to 5 p.m. | The Chamber office
• Virtually: Thursday, August 19 | 9 to 10 a.m. | Zoom
If you’re not familiar with The Chamber, are a new member, new contact, new hire, or just want to reengage with us, this session is for you! Chamber 101 is a laid-back discussion designed to share some of the great benefits of Chamber membership and what opportunities exist that you need to know.
EGGS & ISSUES
The Housing Dilemma: Solving an Obstacle to Community Growth
Tuesday, July 13 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream
Extreme disproportion of housing supply and demand coupled with inflated housing prices cause great concern, especially for a community like ours experiencing tremendous growth and a significant workforce shortage. The Home Builders Association will share current trends in homeownership and how critical the housing supply is to attracting a workforce. You will also hear directly from an economist on how we got into this current housing situation and how we compare with other regions. In addition, you will hear Metro COG and our area cities on the housing programs they offer and the planning/ zoning plans they have for our growing communities.
Parks and Recreation: A Community Cornerstone
Tuesday, August 3 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream
Vibrant communities are home to a variety of attractions, but parks and recreation facilities are cornerstones of community development and planning. As we look towards the future and prioritize placemaking in our workforce and livability conversations, it is imperative that our local and state governments continue to incorporate affordable spaces for kids and adults to explore and enjoy. While our FMWF community grows, we must set ourselves apart by creating attractive communities to live, work and play.
Join North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department Director, Andrea Travnicek, leaders of the local park districts, and businesses supporting recreational opportunities, as we discuss the importance of communal spaces, opportunities for growth, current and future offerings and demand for revitalization.
Thank you to the sponsors that make these events and programs possible. Find them on page 33.
Andrea Travnicek State of ND
Dr. Scott Beaulier NDSU Bryce Johnson Home Builders Association of Fargo Moorhead
Jason Orloske Concord
Jodi Duncan Flint Group
WOMEN CONNECT
PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR
Discuss, Connect &
Reflect
Thursday, July 15 | 11 a.m. to noon | Location TBD
Join us for a professional conversation focused on how to create social change through inspiring people, powerful stories and compelling design. This will be a Discuss, Connect & Reflect you won’t want to miss!
Find Creative Leadership and Building Our Capacity for Compassion with Vera Leung wherever you listen to podcasts!
Networking Before 9
Friday, July 30 | 8 to 9 a.m. | Location TBD
Grow your personal and professional network by joining this Networking Before 9 socializing opportunity. Make sure to invite a friend to join us as well! We look forward to you joining us.
Fearless: An inspiring experience featuring Kat Perkins
Tuesday, July 27 | 3:30 to 5:45 p.m. | The Lights at Sheyenne Making fearless choices, taking leadership and following the lead, becoming the most successful person you can be, and how attitude can help you rise above. Kat Perkins will share an engaging, powerful message about being brave, staying positive and taking chances in life.
Kat will perform an hour-long concert following her keynote presentation.
Follow Kat online: @katperkinsmusic
Thank you to the sponsors
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK
YPN Golf Outing
Wednesday, July 28 | 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Rose Creek Golf Course | 1500 East Rose Creek Pkwy S, Fargo
YPN is hosting a nine-hole golf scramble! Whether you are new to the game or an expert, this event is for you. We will pair you up with other YPN members for a fun night of networking and golfing. More details about golf groups will be sent after registration.
For more details visit fmwfchamber.com/ypn.
Find them on page 33.
Eggs & Issues: Midwest Energy Summit recap
We are proud to have partnered with 13 other chambers in June to host a successful Midwest Energy Summit for our community and business leaders. Attendees heard directly from executives of leading energy companies across the Midwest, policymakers and national industry experts. Discussion topics included: The Future of Energy, Power Supply and Grid Reliability, Federal and State Energy Legislative Policy, Deconstructing the Texas and California Energy Crisis and much more. Your Chamber constantly endeavors to convene leaders around topics and issues that affect our members, community and region. Thank you to our Eggs & Issues and Energy Summit Sponsors for making this special event possible.
Fueling Our Future update
Fueling Our Future (FOF)—a joint venture between The Chamber and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation—provides a platform to bring leadership together to understand, discuss and identify actionable steps and outcomes that are major issues with a broad regional impact. In short, we are working to intentionally build a thriving and viable community for generations to come.
To prepare our region for the opportunities ahead of us, FOF reached out to more than 150 regional business and elected leaders and invited them to a regional leadership retreat that was held at the end June. The retreat provided education about the regional economy and how we compare to other markets, determined the pressing issues and opportunities for our own market, and began structuring a way forward that will give us the best chance at being a leading economic and vibrant market of the future.
Welcome to the following businesses who joined The Chamber in May! We thank each of them for their support in our mission and investment in their business and community. Please consider doing business with Chamber members first.
701 Eateries
701eateries.com
Restaurants
We will meet you in the kitchen, where all the good parties and storytelling happen! Whether it’s singing 90s rap at the top of our lungs after some cocktails with wooden spoons for microphones (because that’s what we do EVERY holiday) or eating lefse, hot dishes, a great steak straight from the farm or making traditional Romegrott, we will share our traditions of growing up in the midwest and we hope you share yours. 701 is all about Midwest nostalgia...help us tell the stories of our heritages.
Convenient Care Clinic, PLLC
caring-clinic.com
Medical - Clinics
Convenient care close to home. We only accept walk-in patients and treat simple conditions without extensive testing to save you time and money.
Fit My Feet
fifty feet.com
Shoes
We are a sit and fit shoe store! We help you choose footwear and/or orthotics that will serve your needs as well as give you exceptional comfort!
Liberty Mutual Insurance
prudential.com
Insurance
Our office provides property and casualty insurance through Liberty Mutual Insurance and offers Financial Services through Prudential. Please call for an appointment to get a free home and auto quote!
Village Cooperative
villagecooperative.com
Assisted Living
Village Cooperative senior housing communities are designed for active seniors who want an entirely maintenance free lifestyle with all the financial benefits of home ownership. In a Village Cooperative, you can enjoy a connection with your neighbors at one of our community activities, a gathering with friends or family in your own home, or travel without any worries of upkeep back home
Congrats to these members for celebrating the following milestone Chamber anniversaries this month!
25 YEARS
Strehlow Construction Co. Vaaler Insurance, Inc.
20 YEARS
Jefferson Lines Fargo Air Museum
Alzheimer’s Association MN-ND Chapter
North Dakota Regional Centers
15 YEARS
WE Ortho
Anytime Fitness Moorhead Padgett Business Services
10 YEARS
Bodyworks Physical Therapy and Bliss Massage Therapy
Churches United
Smartt Interior Construction
5 YEARS
Eventide Fargo - 32nd Ave
Profile by Sanford
Aldevron to be acquired by Danaher Danaher Corporation announced in June that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Aldevron, for a cash purchase price of approximately $9.6 billion. Danaher expects to finance the acquisition using cash on hand and/or proceeds from the issuance of commercial paper. Founded in 1998 by Michael Chambers and John Ballantyne, Aldevron is headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota and employs approximately 600 people. Aldevron manufactures high-quality plasmid DNA, mRNA, and proteins, serving biotechnology and pharmaceutical customers across research, clinical and commercial applications. Aldevron will operate as a standalone operating company and brand within Danaher’s Life Sciences segment.
Bethany Retirement Living earns Pinnacle Quality Awards
Bethany Retirement Living has been awarded ten Customer Experience Awards from Pinnacle Quality Insight. Qualifying for the awards displays a continued dedication to providing best in class senior healthcare services. By qualifying for the Pinnacle Customer Experience Award, Bethany Retirement Living has satisfied the rigorous demand of scoring in the top 15 percent of the nation across a 12-month average.
Moore Holding Company acquires Communication Network Engineering, Inc.
Moore Holding Company, a 100% employee-owned holding company, recently acquired Communication Network Engineering, Inc. (CNE). Blake Griffin, PE, will remain CNE’s president. The Fargobased company will retain its name and current locations in Fargo and New London, Minn.
CNE employees will become part of the Moore Holding Company employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) upon eligibility, joining the employees of Moore Engineering, Inc., headquartered in West Fargo, N.D., and Holly Beck Surveying and Engineering in Bismarck, N.D.
NEW HIRES & PROMOTIONS
Alerus
Katie Behrend, SBA Loan Servicing Specialist
Terri Fleming, SBA Lending Advisor
Tadd Johnson, SBA Loan Product Specialist
Angela Kazmierski, SBA Lending Advisor
John Kimball, SBA Lending Director
Apex Engineering
Travis Miranowski, Survey Technician
Matt Mohagen, Graduate Engineer
Appareo
James Borud, PCB Designer
Moses Condon, IT Help Desk Specialist
Gannon Gilbraith, Certification Analyst
Bennett Nass, Customer Support Specialist
Central Minnesota Credit Union
Mike Edenborg, Mortgage Lender
Laura Grefsrud, Branch Manager
Tim Stokka, Commercial Banking Officer
CORE Property Group
Brett Saladin, Commercial Realtor
Cornerstone Bank
Jake Lind, AVP/Business Banker
Dakota Business Lending
Lexi Hendricks, Servicing Specialist & Office Manager
Dawson Insurance, a Marsh and McLennan Agency LLC Company
Kiley Skuza, Client Coordinator
Houston Engineering, Inc.
Gunnar Cowing, Engineer
Zygmund Fursa, Engineer
Carter Haman, Survey Technician
JLG Architects
Mike Wekesser, Practice Studio Leader
The Krabbenhoft
Real Estate Team
David Moll, Realtor
SKUZA
CROCKETT
LOCHTHOWE
Mead & Hunt
Travis Hirschey, Civil Engineer (picture on previous page)
Bryan Jacobson, Project Manager
Jason Ness, Land Surveying Department Manager
Tom Schauer, Senior Aviation Consultant
Steve Synhorst , Aviation Senior Project Manager
NetCenter Technologies
Al Bultman
Michael Reprogal
Gerry Ulrich
North Dakota Safety Council
Megan Hansen, Senior Accounting Manager
Alex Heiser, Director of Operations
Don Moseman, Training Director
Marnie Piehl, Senior Marketing Manager
Kristin Wilson, Development and Marketing Director
Office Sign Company (not pictured)
Robby Anderson, Quality Control
Carly Erickson, Brand Engagement Coordinator
Heaven Harding, Sign Production Specialist
Tiffany Ktytor, Senior Account Executive
Porter Ludwig, Bookkeeper
Luke Pecka, Business Development Specialist
Belle Wei, Customer Success Manager
Anna Erickson, Senior Layout Artist
Jenny Junker, Shipping Coordinator
Scott Syverson, Production Logistics Supervisor
Kali Vinson, Account Manager
Onsharp
Sydney Crockett , Digital Strategist
Adam McNevin, Python Developer
Ganesh Padmanabhan, Python Developer
Jon Raugutt , Software Developer
Park Co Realtors
Julie Nelson Wanzek , REALTOR ®
Ronald McDonald House
Charities of the Red River Valley
Jakelle Hoffmann, Development Director
Town & Country Credit Union
Jessica Lochthowe, VP Mortgage Underwriting
Stephen Sanford, Assistant Branch Manager
The Village Family Service Center
Bradi Holy, EAP Clinical Supervisor
JoDee Knipfer, Fargo Counseling and IOP Supervisor
West Fargo Public Schools
Candida Braun, Assistant Principal
Widmer Roel
Jared Belisle, Tax Associate
PADMANABHAN
HOLY
SYNHORST
MOSEMAN
RAUGUTT
KNIPFER
BULTMAN
PIEHL
NELSON
BRAUN
BELISLE REPROGAL
WILSON
HOFFMANN
Choice’s journey began in 2001 as a small group of people driven by a People First mindset. We are now 441 team members strong. As a Midwest-based bank, we have strong ties with agriculture and have been the #1 ag lender in North Dakota since 2014. We have been recognized as one of the fastest growing banks in America, and one of the best banks to work for in the U.S.!
Guided by our People First approach, we’re proud our roots, decisions, and leadership is local. Whether you’re saving for your children’s education or buying your first home, we want to be part of the significant moments in your life.
Are there any initiatives you’re focusing on right now or plans coming up you can share?
Every day, people in our communities face unseen challenges. They may be our neighbors, coworkers, or even our family. We asked ourselves how we could help. This is how the Wishing Well program was born. Inspired by our #PeopleFirst philosophy, the Wishing Well betters the places we live by giving to those most in need.
We have granted dozens of wishes since this program launched in 2019. From a school library that needed more books, to Jody with muscular dystrophy who needed a new electric scooter to give her freedom of movement—no wish is too big or small.
What do you like best about doing business in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo?
The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo community embraces the same People First values that are at the heart of everything we do. We put our customers first and it’s incredibly easy to do that in a community like ours that is so eager to help their neighbor. Banking in this community has given us many opportunities to better the place we live, from volunteering with local charities to providing financial support to our resilient business owners and customers.
What is one thing you most want others to know about you?
We’re dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic viability of local families and businesses. Through our annual hospice fundraising events, charitable giving campaigns, and partnerships with programs that provide financial assistance in low-tomoderate income areas and underserved markets, reinvesting in our communities and bettering the places we live has always been a focus of ours.
What do you like about being a member of The Chamber?
The community engagement and education opportunities the Chamber organizes are invaluable to our community and team members. The Chamber provides the opportunity for our team members to build connections and grow personally and professionally, which is why Choice is a supporting sponsor for the Chamber’s Agribusiness committee and Women Connect event and many of our employees are involved in the Young Professionals Network.
Bettering the places we live is something we are deeply passionate about at Choice.
Members of Choice Bank’s West Fargo office made wheelchair ponchos and dialysis blankets for local nursing home residents.
Choice Bank’s Moorhead location celebrates Giving Hearts Day.
Choice Bank’s Wishing Well program gives to those most in need in our communities.
Program & Event Sponsors
Thank you to all of our sponsors that make The Chamber regular events and programs possible.
BUSINESS TRAINING
PROGRAM SPONSORS
EGGS & ISSUES
PRESENTING SPONSOR
WOMEN CONNECT
PROGRAM SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Forum Communications Printing
Minnesota State Community and Technical College WEX Health, Inc.
EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Bremer Bank | Choice Bank
First Western Bank & Trust
Houston Engineering | KLJ Engineering
Midwest Radio of Fargo Moorhead
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Moore Engineering | ROERS
Super Studio | Ulteig
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
LEADERSHIP FMWF
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Bell Bank | Choice Bank
Eventide Senior Living Communities
First Western Bank & Trust | Gate City Bank
Microsoft | M State | Office Sign Company
Otter Tail Corporation | Rasmussen College
Sanford Health | Vogel Law Firm | WDAY
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. | Western State Bank WEX Health, Inc.
EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR DESSERT SPONSOR
PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR
PRESENTING SPONSORS
PROGRAM SPONSORS PUBLIC
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
Gate City Bank
PROGRAM SPONSOR
PROGRAM SPONSOR
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency
Essentia Health | Midco
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
MILITARY AFFAIRS
PROGRAM SPONSOR
