The Bridge: March 2021

March 2021 vol. 24 no. 7

Announcing the June event speaker…

MEL

ROBBINS

JUNE 29, 2021 details p18

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

CONTENTS MARCH 2021

ON THE COVER

18 9 28 30 32

Mel Robbins Women Connect's June speaker Economic Outlook event takeaways City spotlight: Hawley, MN Member profile: CHI Friendship Member spotlight: Indigo Signs

ADVERTISER INDEX 4 AAA-The Auto Club 5 Alerus

15 Bergseth Brothers 16 Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota 15 Boulger Funeral Home 27 Bremer Bank 31 CHI Friendship 21 Cole Papers, Inc. 12 Cornerstone Bank 27 Eide Bailly 29 Enclave Companies Back Essentia Health 31 First International Bank & Trust 27 Forum Communications Printing 31 Indigo Signs 27 Moore Engineering 13 NDSCS 27 PAM Rehabilitation Hospital of Fargo 4 Pinnacle Pediatric Clinic 12 PRO Resources 22 Property Resources Group 12 ReadiTech 22 The Village Family Service Center 29 Ulteig 13 Your CBD Store

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

3 4 6 8 10 11 13–17 15 19 20 20 21 22 23 24 26

Letter from the president CHAMBER NEWS

Membership Matters: SEO Chamber Faces CHAMBER EVENTS

Internship program training ChamberChoice Luncheon Golf Outing Upcoming events Apply to be a speaker PROGRAM UPDATES

Why Women Connect?

Leadership FMWF POC: Two-year reflections MEMBER NEWS

New Members Anniversaries Company News People News GUEST ARTICLES

How men can support women leaders

online

CONTENTS podcast

• Episode 9: Corporate culture with Kurtis Karn

Culture is one of those buzzwords you hear a lot, but what is company culture really? For Kurtis Karn, WEX Health Inc., culture is woven into every aspect of a workplace. Listen in as we discuss exactly how culture plays into talent attraction and retention, how it affects your bottom line, what employees are looking for, and how job-seekers can find the role that fits them best.

Listen at fmwfchamber.com/podcast.

For past issues of The Bridge: issuu.com/fmwfchamber.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 1

MISSION

Board of Directors

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

Sandi Piatz Microsoft Chair

Shawn Dobberstein Hector International Airport Chair Elect

Peter Stenehjem First International Treasurer Bank & Trust

VISION

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

Roger Reierson Flint Group Agribusiness

Patti Cosgriff Northwestern Bank Ambassador Public Relations

Dean Krogen 702 Communications

Tom Dawson Dawson Insurance

Ambassador Member Relations

Jodi Duncan Flint Group

Wyatt Johnson John Deere Business Training Electronic Solutions

Immediate Past Chair Member at Large

Anne Blackhurst Minnesota State University Moorhead Kevin Christianson Paces Lodging Corporation, Property Resources Group

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

Committee Chairs

Louise Dardis Retired educator Education

Dan Cash Midwest Radio of Fargo Moorhead

Leadership FMWF

Brian Shawn Midco

Kyle Dorow Essentia Health

• Establish the region as a full-service metropolitan marketplace.

Mike Dragosavich Spotlight

Military Affairs

Trevor Mathew Choice Bank Professionals of Color

Chad Flanagan Eide Bailly LLP Steve Halverson Heartland Trust Company

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

Kara Jorvig Allegro Group Tami Norgard Vogel Law Firm Brittany Sachdeva Sanford Health

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

Joanna Slominski Mortenson

Tim Flakoll Tri-College University Public Policy

Kirsten Jensen Minnesota State Women Connect University Moorhead Celine Francisco Choice Bank

Young Professionals Network

Chamber Staff Shannon Full

President & CEO @FMWFShannon

Amanda Huggett

Jim Parsons

Business Development Manager @FMWFDarren

Alyssa Lakoduk

Katie Mastel

Manager of Communications & Marketing @FMWFAmanda

Professional Development Coordinator @FMWFAlyssa

Mason Rademacher

Bobbi Rehder

Public Policy & Workforce Development Coordinator @FMWFMason

Darren Dunlop

VP of Finance & Operations @FMWFJim

Events Coordinator @FMWFBobbiJo

Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager @FMWFKatie

Casey Sanders

Manager of Membership @FMWFCasey

Darin Feir

Marketing Design Coordinator @FMWFDarin

Tracy Meckler

Mara Fossum Marketing Assistant @FMWFMara

Tracy Powell

Membership & Advertising Sales Manager @FMWFTracyM

Director of Events and Programs @FMWFTracyP

Mickayla Thompson

Julie Yourczek

Member Relations Coordinator @FMWFMickayla

Office Administrator @FMWFJulieY

THE BRIDGE (USPS 124-430) is published monthly by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber. For each issue received, $3.50 of membership dues are applied toward subscription of the newsletter. Periodicals Postage Paid at Fargo, ND 58102 and at additional mailing offices. Publication No. 124430.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bridge, PO Box 2443, Fargo, ND 58108-2443; 218.233.1100. Printed by Forum Communications Printing.

2 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT

The power of connection and community Throughout my life, I have had so many mentors that have shaped the way I think, the way I act and the way I lead. These mentors have been men and women, older and younger, similar and diverse backgrounds. One thing that each and every one of them has believed in is the power of investing in others. I have instilled this into my personal core values. I believe in empowerment.

I believe that the best thing you can do for someone is to not only believe in them, but have the courage to invest in them.

I share all of this with you because I know one of the greatest assets of a chamber is our ability to bring people together to invest in others – to invest in our future. Our Chamber already has some great programs like Women Connect, Leadership FMWF and the Young Professionals Network that leans into professional and personal development. I am excited to announce that in the future, our team at The Chamber will lean even more into spaces that will push the status quo, will create even deeper connections and allow for greater impact on people’s lives.

As I have been analyzing our current programs and gathering insight from our members and stakeholders, I have come to realize that not only do we have opportunities, but we have a unique responsibility to focus even more on these areas: enhanced and targeted women’s leadership programming; diversity, equity and inclusion conversations, training and programming; business mentorship; and increased, intentional student engagement within our companies and our communities.

The future of The Chamber and this region is exciting and dynamic, but in order to truly achieve ultimate success, I am encouraging— no actually, I am challenging you to get involved with us. I have witnessed first-hand that when dedicated people find passion in the work we do and get involved, we experience unimaginable results.

If this has piqued your interest at all, let me know.

We have great opportunities available just for you.

Shannon Full

President & CEO Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 3

CHAMBER NEWS

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

WTH is SEO?

What does your Chamber membership have to do with it?

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization.

In short, this is the process of enhancing your website to gain traffic from search results (such as Google!). There are many factors that can go into achieving your desired result— including simply being a Chamber member and your listing in our online directory!

Because your business name and website are included in our directory, your business will benefit from more search results, and ultimately, traffic to you.

This works because Google prioritizes search results for companies that have more mentions and content on your own website, and on others.

The more places that link to you, the better!

Want to learn even more?

Here’s what other members had to say.

“I signed up with The Chamber a couple years ago.

With their MIC, it’s actually led to one of the best-performing and highest traffic sources to my website, according to my Google Analytics.”

—Patrick Metzger PM and Associates

We want to help you update, enhance and maintain your listing. You can add unlimited keywords, a 1,600-character description, photos, a video, highlight links, and add company representatives that will all add to your overall SEO.

“By being listed in The Chamber’s online membership directory, and linking back to my website, my local SEO has gone up without me paying for Google Adwords. Being a member helps my brand and my visibility to new clients! Thanks to The Chamber, my last two clients searched for graphic design in Fargo, and chose me.”

— Sue Skavlem Skavlem Designs

Questions or comments?

Reach out to your Chamber membership team by calling 218.233.1100 and check out the Member Information Center to ensure you are maximizing this benefit!

Make sure to visit The Chamber’s social media for a video from Sue about this benefit!

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MARCH 2021

4950 13th Avenue S., Ste. 15 Fargo ND 58103 701-282-6222

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CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER FACES

Meet the Chamber staff— Your Events team

Tracy Powell

Bobbi Jo Rehder

Director of Events & Programs

Events Coordinator Women Connect 2016

Voices of Vision 2017

Chamber Challenge Golf Outing

At YWCA's Women of the Year Awards

What we do:

Fun event facts

What we love about our roles

Develop, plan and execute 12 signature events along with the Business Training and Women Connect programs.

• A memorable torrential downpour at Oxbow Country Club during the 2015 Chamber Challenge Golf Outing.

• The friendships and connections that have been made over the years.

• Last year was the first year we have had to cancel an event due to weather.

• The challenges and variety that each and every event offers.

Interesting fun facts Together, Bobbi and Tracy have 40+ years’ experience. They each have held the same three positions in their years at The Chamber. They both started out at the front desk, then transitioned into working with the Ambassador team and now work together on events.

Most memorable moment Planned and executed the largest Chamber event in history when Rachel Hollis was featured at the annual Women Connect celebration in January 2019 with 4,000 in attendance.

#ChamberCrew 6 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

• One of our annual Women Connect speakers, Fawn Germer, who was from Florida wanted to experience a few of the things the community offered during the winter months, so Bobbi and Tracy organized a little ice fishing expedition and also tried a little curling. The trip wasn’t complete without a trip to the woodchipper!

• The Women Connect name was designed during a brainstorming session on a bar napkin at the Radisson.

• It is rewarding to see members networking and connecting with each other through events.

• We are privy to quality local speakers through our trainings—we have amazing local talent in our community!

• We are honored to work with our Business Training and Women Connect committees; they are invaluable resources to our programming.

CHAMBER NEWS

Meet a board member

Meet a committee chair

Jodi Duncan

Kirsten Jensen

President, Flint Group Year joined the board: 2014 Other Chamber involvement: Leadership program graduate, Women Connect and Business Training speaker, and event sponsor

Chief Marketing Officer, Minnesota State University Moorhead Women Connect committee chair Other Chamber involvement: Speaker at both Business Training and Women Connect in previous years.

As president of Flint Group, I oversee day-to-day operations, health of the business, team and cultural excellence, strategic planning and business development.

We also recently acquired Ladyboss Midwest that roles up to Flint Group as a business unit.

What do you like best about serving on The Chamber board?

What do you do for fun when you’re not working?

What would you like others to know about the work of your committee?

I have learned so much from serving on the BOD and met many incredible people. The Chamber is deeply involved in the success of businesses in our community and dedicated to ensuring we have a vibrant and active business community.

Serving on the Board opened my eyes to all of the great work our Chamber does. Prior to being on the Board, I was less aware of how successful our Chamber is and what an incredible resource they are for our businesses.

Over COVID, we decided our nest was too empty, so we got a puppy from 4 Luv of Dog. She is keeping me busy and entertained. I also run most mornings with my friend, which we consider five miles of therapy!

The Women Connect committee is dedicated to bringing women together for important conversations that impact our professional and personal lives.

We’re always looking to learn more about the topics that women in our community want to hear about. And, we want to lift up as many new voices as we can. If you have an idea, please reach out.

What’s your best piece of advice for future leaders?

Over the years, I’ve been a Chamber member as part of a large organization, a small organization and as a solopreneur, and I’ve found value in every one of those roles. I’ve made deep professional connections from getting involved in The Chamber.

How else are you involved around the community?

One of our company values at Flint is to give back. I am most involved in United Way and will be chairing the 2021/2022 campaign. We do a lot with Special Olympics and support Fans in the Stands for the summer games, which is one of my all-time favorite things to do.

Our team also works closely with The Arts Partnership, advocating for arts in our community.

If you want to be a leader and want to change something, you need to come with solutions. Once you dedicate yourself to solving issues and stop complaining, you will be invaluable to your employer. It’s a much better feeling being part of the solution rather than perpetuating the problem.

What do you like most about being involved with The Chamber?

What is the best professional advice you have ever received?

Start every day with gratitude. It paves the way for the best possible day.

What do you do for fun when you’re not working?

I’m an avid learner/reader and I’ve been a part of a book club for more than 20 years. My newest obsession is soup-making. Weekly soup deliveries to my parents and my in-laws have helped us feel connected while we’re keeping distance due to the pandemic.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 7

CHAMBER NEWS

Next internship training cohort launches in April This internship training program has been designed as a hands-on, interactive educational experience where you can expect this nine-week, seven-part, virtual training series to equip you and your organization with the tools necessary to develop, grow or enhance your own internship program. The training series will be offered through live virtual sessions.

Session topics & training dates • Training 1: Introduction to Total Internship Management, April 6 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Training 2: Organizational Readiness & Team Commitment, April 13 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Training 3: The Intern Work Plan, April 20 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Discuss & Reflect with Dr. Shindell, April 27 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Training 4: Effective Recruiting & Onboarding, May 4 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Training 5: Selection & Training, May 11 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Training 6: Transitioning to “What’s Next” & Assessment, May 18 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Training 7: Wrapping Up | Putting it All Together, May 25 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

• Discuss & Reflect with Dr. Shindell, June 1 | 1:30 to 3 p.m.

COST: Chamber member: $215 | Non-chamber member: $250

Building Successful Internship Programs is now launching a new method to receive the training!

Sign up today for access to all training information and navigate through the program individually and at your own pace!

COST: Chamber member: $160 Non-chamber member: $200

What did participants in the first training say?

Building Successful Internship Programs has been great so far. The resources they provide are worth it alone.

The facilitator does a great job keeping everyone engaged and the discussion topics are beneficial. I would recommend this to anyone whose organization has an informal internship program or doesn't have an internship program.

I was able to participate in the FMWF Chamber Internship Training program in early 2021. Even in a virtual format, the information was engaging and helpful as we seek to create a more robust internship program at Wanzek Construction. The content shared in the training combines workforce data and program framework backed by research to help employers deliver a meaningful internship program that benefits both the employer and the intern. Whether you’re an employer looking to host your first intern or looking to grow an already established program, I would highly suggest attending this training.

What you’ll receive • Access to all training content for one year • Two supplemental books: • Total Internship Management: The Employers Guide to Building & Sustaining the Ultimate Internship Program • Total Internship Management: Supervisors Handbook • Additional training webinar: Internship Legal Update • Prepared binder with all supplemental documents and guiding content *only for cohort style training

Building Successful Internship Programs is presented by The Chamber and Intern Bridge, and brought to you by the financial support of Fueling Our Future.

8 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

Registrations close Monday, April 5.

Learn more and sign up at fmwfchamber.com/ internship-development.

CHAMBER NEWS

Highlights from the 2021 Economic Outlook Two recent events have no doubt shaped the current climate of our community, state and nation. We dove into these at last month’s Economic Outlook event. Joining us for a virtual discussion, two experts presented on data and trends, and offered analysis and insight to those in attendance.

Rob Engstrom, chief political strategist, American Bankers Association, and founder, Wolfe Street Partners, provided an overview of the past, current and future political climate and discussed how it affects economic climate.

Engstrom described election cycles and how just decades ago, Congress was close to a governing middle and compromise was possible. Now, the middle represents more of a Q-tip, and fewer races are competitive. “Our country has gone through what I call a protracted period of disruption,” he said. “People in the business community need certainty…in our politics that goes beyond our last four years and our recent and current administrations.”

Marshal Albright, Cass County Electric Cooperative, moderated the event discussion

Engstrom also stressed the importance of understanding the impact of federal policy in local communities, which can range from a talent pipeline and infrastructure funding. “It’s imperative that the business community, in a non-partisan and bi-partisan way, assert clarity and assert their voice in primary elections,” he said.

Despite the challenges we face and a political climate that remains bitterly divided, Engstrom said he is bullish in what the future looks like.

Ron Wirtz, regional outreach director, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, presented on data collected from Minneapolis Fed surveys, including unemployment, labor force participation, revenue trends, recovery levels and more. He also discussed covid-related impacts on business and how the supply chain has been affected.

In terms of employment, North Dakota did not see the same dip as Minnesota, but had a much flatter rebound. “While there are some positives in the economy, this is one that is worrying because the trajectory for getting back to pre-pandemic levels is really soft,” he said. However, there is some optimism as active cases decline and the vaccine makes its rounds.

“I would be hesitant to say that we're almost on the other side of this, because there have been so many changes and so much volatility,” he advised. “Be careful of taking that exhale. What we have to think about is how do we build the base higher to get to the other side, we are ready for launch.”

Thanks to these local restaurants for participating in our gift card offer for all attendees!

• Boston's Pizza • Buffalo Wings and Rings • Fargo Cork'n Cleaver • Legends Sports Bar and Grill • Luna Fargo • Ole & Lena's Pizzeria • Pepper's Sports Cafe • Sol Ave. Kitchen • Space Aliens Grill and Bar • Spicy Pie

PRESENTING SPONSOR

• The Boiler Room • The Piggy BBQ Restaurant • Three Lyons British Pub • Traditions Restaurant & Bar Inc. • Twist

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 9

UPCOMING EVENTS You’re invited to join us for the…

2021 ChamberChoice

Awards Luncheon Friday, May 21 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott and livestream It’s time to honor and celebrate the visionary and communitydriven organizations that are leading the way and contributing to the vitality of our region! Join us at the ChamberChoice awards luncheon this May, where we'll honor this year’s outstanding candidates in each of the eight categories and name the 2021 award winners. Attendees will be the first to hear the year’s honorees at this upbeat luncheon, and kick back at this fun awards show—whether you join us in person or via livestream.

Watch the Bridge next month to find out which businesses become candidates in each of the categories!

• • • • • • •

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR BUSINESS OF THE YEAR NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BEST PLACE TO WORK DIVERSITY & INCLUSION AWARD – NEW this year!

EMERGING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – NEW this year!

RESILIENT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – NEW this year!

Patrick Kirby returns as emcee!

A local favorite and passionate community leader, Patrick Kirby of Do Good Better Consulting, is back for a high-energy and fun luncheon presentation!

To register, visit fmwfchamber.com or call 218.233.1100.

PRESENTED BY

#ChamberChoice 10 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS

2021 Chamber Challenge Golf Outing Wednesday, July 21 Edgewood Golf Course Get ready for the summer’s annual golf tournament for Chamber members!

Join us for fun, networking and friendly competition in the sun!

Entry fee includes 18 holes of golf; cart; food and drinks provided by sponsors on the course; 19th Hole Happy Hour Social (includes heavy hors d'oeuvres); on-course contests and giveaways from sponsors. Then stick around for the 19th Hole Happy Hour Social at the clubhouse after the tournament! Awards will be given for men’s and women’s team best score, and individual prizes for closest to the pin and longest drive.

#FMWFGolf 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. You pick your own theme!

—Individual Rates—

—Team Rates—

Don’t have a team of four? Register as an individual and we’ll pair you up with other players. It’s a great way to build relationships and your network.

Get your clients, co-workers and friends together and network the afternoon away on the golf course with a four-person team.

On or before June 1

On or before June 1

$125 Per Golfer-Chamber Member

$500 Foursome-Chamber Members

$175 Non-Members

$700 Non-Members

After June 1

After June 1

$135 Per Golfer-Chamber Member

$540 Foursome-Chamber Members

$175 Non-Members

$700 Non-Members

Sponsorship opportunities are available.

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

LEADERBOARD SPONSOR

Registration is now open at fmwfchamber.com.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 11

PROTECT YOUR CUSTOMERS

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800.279.4796 | www.readitech.com 4870 Rocking Horse Circle S. Fargo, ND 58104 12 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS

Business After Hours Thursday, April 8 | 4 to 6 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Fargo Get ready to network again, because Business After Hours is back this April! Social distancing and limited capacity are at the top of the list to keep you safe. Three separate rooms will be open at the Delta, with themes, vendors and amazing hors d’oeuvres in each. Stay tuned for details about how to win a small business support package, valued at $500.

Interested in exhibiting? Booth spaces are now sold out, but you can sign up to get on a waiting list!

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:

• Vendors will be placed 6 feet apart in each room

• Capacity will be limited to 200 at a time in each room

For more information, contact Bobbi Jo at 218.359.0525 or brehder@fmwfchamber.com.

• There will be sanitation • Hand sanitizer stations and masks available will be available at the registration • We will conduct extra sanitizing of table and at every restrooms, touch points and public vendor booth spaces throughout the event

#FMWFBAH SPONSORED BY

Voices of Vision Wednesday, August 25 | Noon to 1:30 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Fargo This year marks the 11th anniversary of The Chamber's Voices of Vision event, and we’re pulling out all the stops. This year’s speaker is Admiral William McRaven, U.S. Navy veteran and author of Make Your Bed speaking on “Leadership and Risk Management: Taking Command.”

If you're interested in sponsorship opportunities, contact Darren Dunlop at ddunlop@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0514.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SPONSOR YOUR NEXT EMPLOYEE

125+ PRODUCTS OILS, TOPICALS, WATER SOLUBLES, PET, BEAUTY, AND EDIBLES

ONLY STORE

IN AREA WITH USDA CERTIFIED ORGANICS

Learn more about Student Sponsorships and find your future employee match.

NDSCS.edu/Sponsorships

1650 45th St S, Fargo | 701-532-0416

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 13

UPCOMING EVENTS

Business Training Axe These Axioms: Break the Old Rules and Thrive as a Modern-Day Marketer

Eggs & Issues Agriculture’s Economic Impact Tuesday, March 2 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. | Livestream

Wednesday, March 10 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Holiday Inn Fargo and livestream

By 2007, the way people interacted with content, technology and brands changed.

Facebook was open to the general public.

Google kept growing YouTube as the world’s second-largest search engine.

Netflix started streaming content. And we Jason Jacobson engaged with all this from a device that H2M fits in our pocket. More than 10 years later, marketers and professional communicators still cling to rules and practices—axioms—from a different era, which continue to seem more distant every day. This presentation will refute several common marketing conventions still held by many.

Leading with an Entrepreneurial Mindset Wednesday, April 21 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DoubleTree by Hilton and livestream

The world has changed in ways that now requires everyone to think Bree Langemo Concordia College and act like an entrepreneur. An entrepreneurial mindset shifts our perspective in a way that exposes opportunities, ignites ambition and fosters innovation. And, in today’s rapidly changing world, an entrepreneurial mindset is essential for both individuals and organizations to adapt and thrive.

Chamber 101 Connect. Engage. Maximize.

Two options to register in April!

Dr. Greg Lardy

NDSU | Moderator

Dr. Bryon Parman

NDSU

Drew Combs North Dakota Trade Office

Barry Batcheller Appareo

Amy McBeth BNSF

The economies within our Fargo Moorhead West Fargo metro are heavily impacted by agriculture, but by how much? The phrase “agriculture is the backbone of our economy” is often said, but how do we know this? To what degree does the agriculture industry impact our state and local economies? Join us at this Eggs & Issues to hear from prominent leaders across various sectors of the agriculture industry as we answer these questions.

Our Refugee Workforce

Tuesday, April 6 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. | Courtyard by Marriott and livestream

Mike Arntson Cardinal Glass Industries

Adam Broers Bethany Retirement Living

Anisa Hajimumin Minnesota DEED

• In person: Tuesday, April 20 | 4 to 5 p.m. | The Chamber office • Virtually: Thursday, April 22 | 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.

Casey Sanders, The Chamber's manager of membership, will walk you through events, programs, discounts, online tools and more, so you can begin maximizing your membership right away. It's a great way to get introduced to what is available.

Laetitia Mizero Hellerud New American Consortium for Wellness and Empowerment

Chris Jones North Dakota Department of Human Services

Refugees are critical to our area’s workforce, economy and community. Both state departments in North Dakota and Minnesota are integral to our state’s success in resettlement, as well as our local workforce in their hiring practices, and local non-profits in their support. Join us for a robust conversation centering around current resettlement practices for refugees in our area, and what we can do to assist in creating community and filling jobs.

Register for these events at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Thank you to the sponsors that make these events and programs possible. Find them on page 33.

14 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS

Get ready to take the stage— Apply to speak at a Chamber event!

Go ahead; be brave! We’re looking for presenters at Business Training and Women Connect events for The Chamber’s upcoming fiscal year. Tell us your big ideas, proven successes, tips and tricks or inspirational message, and you could be chosen to speak to a crowd of local professionals. We welcome experienced speakers and brand-new voices alike. Applications will open soon!

Applications received by May 31 will be considered for the 2021–22 calendar of events.

Learn more at fmwfchamber.com/call-for-presenters.

What we’re looking for: • Diverse thought leaders and professionals who can command a stage and inspire others • Interactive and energetic presentations with practical takeaways that others can use • Innovative ideas and strategies around leadership, skill development, workplace topics or women’s empowerment

What do our speakers get?

• Exposure: A room full of engaged business professionals will hear your message • Promotion: We’ll share your session and bio online, on social media and in print to thousands • Credibility: Position yourself as a thoughtleader in your area of expertise • Training: Dale Carnegie is offering 1.5 hours of coaching for any speaker. Learn to elevate your confidence, engage the audience and review best practices.

Questions?

Contact Bobbi Jo at 218.359.0525 or brehder@fmwfchamber.com.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 15

NORTH DAKOTA STYLE

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

Let’s get started on your employee benefits plan.

EmployerPlansND.com

Jo Hatfield Fargo/Jamestown 701.282.1153

Derek Van Dyke Fargo/Jamestown 701.282.1446 16 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Women Connect

Professionals of Color

Tales from a Recovering Jealous Female

Discuss, Connect & Reflect

We hear and see a lot about women supporting other women. But there’s just something about the woman who appears to “have it all’ that can sometimes fill us with the green-eyed monster we don’t care to acknowledge. As a recovering jealous female, Nicole Turchin acknowledges the downward spiral that can happen when women focus on pushing other females down instead of raising them up.

At this session, Nicole will inspire you to recognize that a change in mindset and in life is possible, and how we can use others to become better leaders.

Join us for another great Discuss, Connect & Reflect as we now highlight a new podcast series, The Diversity Gap! We will discuss the first episode, Increasing the Volume of Your Action, presented by Kay Fabella, who specializes in helping underrepresented minorities leverage their unique stories for social impact and cultural change.

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

Nicole Turchin BNG Team

Find Increasing the Volume of Your Action with Kay Fabella wherever you listen to podcasts, and come ready to discuss.

Mindful Self-Compassion: The Science Behind Being Kind to Yourself

Networking Before 9

Tuesday, April 27 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Avalon Events Center and livestream Mindful self-compassion is a tool and a skill that can be taught. Self-compassion is the relationship we have with ourselves, and is often the motivation behind failure or success. Learning how to be kind to yourself is a tool that you can take with you the rest of your life. Self-compassion decreases anxiety and depression and increases overall mental health and well-being.

Wednesday, March 17 | Noon to 1 p.m. | Virtual

Thursday, March 25 | 8 to 9 a.m. | Virtual Melissa Dahl Mindful Healing & Consulting, PLLC

Join us for what is sure to be a great, entirely virtual, Networking Before 9!

Through breakout room options, you’ll be able to have multiple great conversations in smaller groups to get to know everyone on the call. We look forward to you joining us!

Young Professionals Network YPN Book Club: Podcast Edition Jocko Podcast Wednesday, March 24

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Virtual via Zoom YPN will be staying digital for our March book club discussion. Join us as we center our discussion around the Jocko Podcast. Jocko Willink is a decorated retired Navy SEAL officer and author of “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALS Lead and Win.” The conversation will be around episodes: 114, 115, 118, 192, 219 and 221. Episodes can be streamed on Apple, Spotify or from the Jocko Podcast website jockopodcast.com.

Micro Off the Clock West Fargo Thursday, March 25

5:15 to 6:15 p.m. | West Fargo location TBA

Downtown Fargo Wednesday, March 31 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. | Downtown Fargo location TBA

Are you ready to ease back into inperson events? YPN is bringing inperson events back, on a smaller scale!

Join fellow YPN members for a smaller version of our networking happy hours!

Sign up for the day and area of town that works for you and look for the YPN table tents. This will be a great way to connect with a small group of YPN members while staying safe and healthy!

Location details will be sent in the registration confirmation. No charge to attend, but registration is required.

Corporate Cup SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE! There are spots still available for the 2021 Corporate Cup! Protocols will be put in place to ensure the safety of all participants. These protocols will be changed and updated as required by the current state of the pandemic in May. • Participants will be asked to be masked when moving between events.

• Teams will be encouraged to stay 6 feet away from other teams.

• Equipment will be sanitized between each game.

• Participants will be asked to use hand sanitizer before entering their court/playing field.

• Most events are already planned to take place outside, but all events may be moved outdoors if needed for fresh air.

• Only participants will be allowed at the event.

Register for these events at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

Thank you to the sponsors that make these events and programs possible. Find them on page 33.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 17

Announcing the 2021 Women Connect Celebration speaker…

Mel Robbins!

Tuesday, June 29 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Delta by Marriott Join us in the seventh anniversary of Women Connect at this special event with the most-booked female motivational speaker in the world! Delivering this year’s keynote message is Mel Robbins, serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, internationally recognized social media influencer, and one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in the world. One of the world’s leading experts on behavioral change, Mel Robbins’ research and tools have helped millions of people overcome procrastination, self-doubt and anxiety.

About Mel Robbins Mel Robbins is the host of the new daytime syndicated talk show, The Mel Robbins Show. She has spent the past decade coaching, teaching and motivating millions of people around the world.

Her practical, no-nonsense advice and life strategies provide tangible results and skills that help people push through the everyday challenges we all face in life, work and love.

She is the most-booked female speaker in the world and an international best-selling author. In 2017, Mel broke selfpublishing records with her international best-seller, “The 5 Second Rule.” It was named the #1 audiobook in the world and the fifth most-read book of the year on Amazon.

She is the creator and host of three #1 audiobooks on Audible and the co-founder and CEO of 143 Studios. In January 2019, a quarter of a million people took part in her free 30-day Mindset Reset program online. Her social media platforms inspire more than 60 million people, and her TEDx talk “How to stop screwing yourself over” is one of the most popular of all time.

Follow Mel on Twitter at @melrobbins and learn more about her at melrobbins.com.

WOMEN CONNECT ANNUAL CELEBRATION PRESENTED BY

Registration is now open at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218.233.1100.

18 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

“Your life is defined by the gap between what happens to you and your reaction to it.” – Mel Robbins “The 5 Second Rule is a simple, one-size-fits-all solution for the one problem we all face—we hold ourselves back. The secret isn't knowing what to do—it's knowing how to make yourself do it.” – MelRobbins.com

Mel Robbins, author of ‘The 5 Second Rule’ to keynote Women Connect Annual Celebration

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Why Women Connect?

Women Connect is a vital extension of The Chamber’s mission to build a place of belonging and serve members’ interests. This program brings women together to intentionally build connections and explore what courageous leadership means both personally and professionally. Monthly events are targeted to the needs of professional women, carefully planned by a committee. Monthly charity partnerships encourage donations from attendees to further impact our community.

And, the PUSH program allows women to meet in smaller, intimate groups in their own time outside structured events. Women Connect goes beyond events; it provides a place for women to find their purpose and grow together.

Don’t take our word for it!

Here’s what other are saying:

Women Connect is a monthly event that is not (and cannot) be matched in our community. Each month, hundreds of women look forward to spending an afternoon listening to a new speaker presenting on topics ranging from overcoming self-doubt and owning your own wealth to work-life fusion and the importance of self-care. 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.”

Women Connect is such a valuable asset to the Fargo Moorhead community. Female professionals within Eide Bailly enjoy hearing from local speakers and leaders and making valuable community connections. But most important, Women Connect allows our professionals to talk about topics that impact their daily lives and pushes our professionals to explore leadership in a courageous manner, both personally and professionally. For an organization who prides itself on creating an environment where all staff have equal opportunity to succeed, this is a great program that helps us accomplish exactly that. Programming like this is essential to shaping female leaders who will then impact our community, region and metro. We are honored to support Women Connect.

—Alexandra Floersch, Bell Bank

—Chad Flanagan, Fargo Eide Bailly

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.”

I’ve attended Women Connect events since the beginning and found them to be inspiring and impactful. When I was asked to be a part of the Women Connect committee, I jumped at the chance. Not only was I excited, but honored. Being a part of the committee allowed me to help choose event speakers and topics that would inspire and empower women, based on feedback we obtained. 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.

—Briana Scearcy, Stoneridge Software

—Carrie Carney, Eventide Senior Living Communities

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 19

PROGRAM UPDATES

Health, wellness, and a meeting with the mayors February’s Leadership session focused on community and personal wellness.

The day started with a physical wellness focus with Michelle Cody and Allison Grippe from Fly Fitness, who led the class through a chair yoga session.

Elizabeth Magee, Blue Cross Blue Shield, also presented on mental wellness and the important of self-care.

Over lunch, the class streamed Business Training with Patrick Metzger, PM and Associates. After, Crystal Nelson from Fargo Ergonomics joined us for a presentation on ergonomics, both at the office and in the makeshift home offices that many participants have made in the last year.

After the first portion of our morning focused on personal wellness, we switched to a focus on community wellness. The panel was comprised of local organizations that have helped in the global work to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Greg Kempel, MinnDak Market; Sarah Greterman, Aldevron; Kim Peterson, Lillestol Research; and Jennifer Bredahl, Vitalant, offered great insight on the decisions and transitions that took place to put them in a position to be a community leader in this space.

The day ended with our annual meeting with the mayors, where the class was joined my Mayor Tim Mahoney, Fargo, Mayor Bernie Dardis, West Fargo; Mayor Kory Peterson, Horace; and newly appointed Mayor Shelly Carlson, Moorhead, for a conversation on community leadership. Thank you to all of our speakers for taking time out of their day to join our session!

POC PROGRAM PILLARS • Networking: Social events to provide members opportunities to interact and develop connections.

• Professional development: Learning and development resources members can apply to their daily work.

Celebrating two years of POC It’s been two years since the launch of the Professionals of Color (POC) program, and what a great two years it’s been! Take a look at what POC has become and where we plan on taking it in the future.

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.

20 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

• Education: Opportunities to learn more about the diverse populations in our community and help educate our greater community the importance of embracing DE&I initiatives.

• Service: Philanthropic opportunities for members to serve in our community.

The Professionals of Color program has been dedicated to providing spaces for members to actively engage with one another in an impactful way. To this extent, POC hosts two events each month: • Networking Before 9 to provide opportunities for members to develop professional relationships.

• Discuss, Connect & Reflect, which serves as an opportunity for members to engage in meaningful conversations with each other focused on either a book or podcast.

Get ready… Applications

for the 2021–22 Leadership class open April 1!

Learn more and apply by May 14 at fmwfchamber.com.

Professionals of Color has also taken steps to develop community-wide education programs to help promote, train and foster diverse, inclusive and equitable workplaces through: • The launch of a new community resources page focused on the topic of diversity, equity and inclusion.

• The launch, and completion, of a free six-session training program, Building Inclusive and Equitable Workplaces.

As we look to the future, we have big goals in mind to continue impacting not only our members, but also our greater community: • Launch a mentorship program to connect POC members with regional college students.

• Expand the number of impactful POC networking, professional development and service opportunities provided.

• Launch additional community-wide education programming and resources.

MEMBER NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the following businesses who joined The Chamber in January!

We thank each of them for their support in our mission and investment in their business and community. Please consider doing business with other Chamber members first.

Day Dental Implants & Dentures

University Vacuums

General dental practice with an emphasis on implant and dentures.

Sales and service of new and used vacuums for commercial and retail use.

Mindful Healing & Consulting

Off Color Media

daydentalfargo.com Dentists & Orthodontists, Dental Specialists

themindfulhealing.org Health Care Services

Mindful Healing & Consulting offers Professional Counseling Services in the Fargo Moorhead community.

Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practices.

Ackerman-Estvold ackerman-estvold.com Engineering

Ackerman-Estvold is a North Dakota headquartered consulting firm providing Civil Engineering and Architecture services to public and private clients throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana and Idaho.

ICS

ics-builds.com Consultants & Construction Management

At ICS, we specialize in providing innovative facility solutions that help you plan, build and operate your building well.

Our customized services integrate the planning, funding, construction and ongoing operations of your facilities as we help you throughout all phases of a building project.

Thomas Beadle treasurer.nd.gov Government - Relations

Thomas Beadle is the current treasurer for the State of North Dakota.

facebook.com/UniversityVacs Vacuum Cleaners

offcolormedia.com Photographers/Videographers

Professional video production team. Social media driven advertising, elevating brands, people, businesses and places.

Jay Evans and his team believe in creating meaningful imagery and ads with businesses who believe in investing in themselves.

Red E LLC gorede.com Engineering

In a sea of engineering companies, Red E stands out with an ability to deliver in all aspects of engineering, program and technical requirements. Our goal is to help you be successful, because we know that your success is our success. Trust, confidence, and integrity are important to us. We want our customers to know that when we say we will deliver on something, we will deliver better.

CoreCounts LLC corecounts.com Business Services

CoreCounts is one tool to help you define, measure, train and grow your culture with purpose. It is a continuous performance management tool built for top-performing companies. This tool will increase and measure employee engagement and retention. The four steps to getting results: 1) Mission & Values, 2) Gather Data, 3) Train your Team, 4) Grow your Culture!

Replay Games Downtown Fargo replaygames.us Retail - Stores/Ecommerce

Replay Games is Downtown Fargo’s only customer supported video game store and arcade. Featuring thousands of games ready to play across 40 years of gaming history from Nintendo Switch to Atari 2600. If it involves video games, we want to be a part of it.

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

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 21

MEMBER NEWS

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

10 years 25 years

Advanced Striping and Seal Coating

Mark R. Jung, DDS, P.C.

Apex Engineering Group

20 years

5 years

Chuck E. Cheese’s

CoBank, ACB

Fargo Cork’n Cleaver Hi Ho Burgers & Brews

New American Consortium for Wellness and Empowerment

Newman Quality Fences

Northridge Properties

Old Broadway

Tharaldson Ethanol Plant 1 LLC

Glass Doctor of Fargo-Moorhead

15 years Habitat Restore J & M Printing The Evergreens of Fargo The Evergreens of Moorhead

Pepper’s Sports Cafe

Wagner Window Cleaning LLC

Shaggy’s Dog Wash & Grooming Thomsen Homes, LLC Wired Up!

Charlie Lindberg

Jara Enger

The Village Business Institute offers solutions to help your employees and your organization succeed!

• Employee Assistance Program

• Workplace Mediation

• Crisis Management • Training and Services Consultation Who are you going to trust to help you take care of your people?

TheVillageFamily.org/VBI 800-627-8220 22 THE BRIDGE

MARCH 2021

MEMBER NEWS

COMPANY NEWS Downtown Community Partnership Announces 2020 Broadway Monument Award Winners The DCP announced the 2020 Broadway Monument Award recipients. This award is presented annually to community members and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding service to Downtown Fargo through the giving of their time, talents and resources to further the goals and objectives of the DCP. The 2020 award recipients are: James Gilmour, director of strategic planning and research at the City of Fargo; Ron Ramsey, associate professor of architecture at NDSU; and Community Champion US Bank, accepted by Darin Daby, regional president.

Eide Bailly Ranks on Top 100 Internship List and Vault’s “Best to Work for” Eide Bailly has been ranked No. 18 in Vault’s 2021 Top 100 Internships rankings.

Vault surveyed thousands of current and former interns about their internship programs. Vault’s 100 Best Internships reflect the highest-rated internship programs across the survey pool. In addition, Eide Bailly was ranked No. 6 for Best Accounting Internships, No. 10 for Best Internships for Diversity with Respect to Women, and No. 11 for Best Internships for Quality of Assignments.

Eide Bailly also ranked among the top 10 firms in several categories under Vault’s “Best to Work for” listings including best for Client Interaction and Internal Mobility.

EHP Performance is now open as a Medical Fitness Facility EHP Performance, formerly EHP Crossfit in Moorhead, has opened their doors to new members as a Medical Fitness Facility. This has been a longtime goal of owner Karla Wolford.

What’s the difference between a gym and Medical Fitness Facility? EHP Performance prescribes exercise and a healthy lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal health instead of prescription drugs and medications.

ND Bonding Bill Ensures Commitment to FM Area Diversion Project

Fargo Jet Center Flight School Soared to Record-High Training Accomplishments in 2020 Fargo Jet Center’s flight school reached a total of 5,059 training hours, including 2,980 hours of flight training and 2,079 hours of ground training in 2020. These numbers are up 36% from 2019, which had a total of 3,711 training hours. In 2020, FJC’s flight school had a total of 161 students with 60 flight training accomplishments. The flight training accomplishments include 26 first solo flights, 22 private pilot certificates, and a mixture of advanced ratings and certificates including instrument, multiengine, commercial pilot, certified flight instructor, and multi-engine instructor.

MinnKota Secured Document Destruction achieves certification from NAID The National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) has recognized MinnKota Secured Document Destruction with its “AAA” Certification for the 17th consecutive year. NAID’s “AAA” certification recognizes MinnKota for undergoing an audit and meeting all requirements for the security measures of its facility, employees, transportation vehicles and processes, including the actual destruction of documents.

MinnKota also has an endorsement from NAID for Hard Drive Destruction and Non-Paper Media Destruction.

The Metro Flood Diversion Authority, together with Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney and West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis, thanked legislative leadership in North Dakota for their innovative approach to funding major infrastructure in the State, specifically their commitment to the FM Area Diversion Project (Project).

With the introduction of House Bill 1431, related to bonding, in the North Dakota 67th Legislative Assembly, $435.5 million in additional funding is specifically identified for the Project.

NDSCS Graduates Report 97 Percent Placement North Dakota State College of Science’s 2020 Graduate Placement Report has revealed that 97% of the college’s 2020 career and technical education (CTE) graduates are employed or continuing their education. Of the 31 CTE programs, 21 reported 100% placement. The beginning average annual salary of a 2020 graduate is $39,480. Sixty-eight% of the employed graduates are employed in the state of North Dakota, finding employment in 27 of the state’s 53 counties.

The NDSCS Graduate Placement Report is compiled each year by the NDSCS Student Success and Career Services office.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 23

MEMBER NEWS

PEOPLE NEWS

PROMOTED

TANGEN

KORNACHUK

QUANRUD

FLAAGAN

GARBERG

JOHNSON

MURPHY

MEADOWS

COSSETTE

EMERSON

GEORGE

SARABAKHSH

SOCIA

STRAUTZ

YEADO

SCHREIBER-BECK

WATNE

GIOBRES

PROMOTED

MUUS

TIFFANY

MORGAN

KOMMER

PLANTE

MILLER

New Hires & Promotions Advanced Business Methods Matthew Tangen, Customer Service Representative

Allegro Group

Connect Interiors

Michael Murphy, Operations Manager

Dakota Plains Realty Svetlana Meadows, Realtor

Phil Kornachuk, Managing Director Leadership Development

Anne Carlsen Center

Dr. Myra Quanrud, FT Medical Director

Appareo

Kari Flaagan, Digital Marketing Specialist Matt Garberg, Manufacturing Assembler

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties Brian Johnson, REALTOR®

Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company

MARCH 2021

Nick Giobres, Construction Manager Charlie Muus, Vice President of Building Operations

Essentia Health

Hallie Tiffany, NP, Pediatric Hospitalist

Jess Cossette, Client Coordinator Kelli Emerson, Client Advocate Jessica George, Client Advocate Sina Sarabakhsh, Client Advocate Michelle Socia, Client Executive Chris Strautz, Business Insurance Marketing Specialist Caitlin Yeado, Client Representative

Fargo Rentall (Tents and Events Rentall)

Emerging Prairie

Friendly Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry

Rep. Cynthia Schreiber-Beck, New Board Member, Grand Farm Mark Watne, New Board Member, Grand Farm

24 THE BRIDGE

EPIC Companies

Ashley Morgan, Sales Representative

First International Bank & Trust Michelle Kommer, New Board Member

First Western Bank & Trust

Kelsey Plante, Human Resource Officer

Dr. Emily Miller, Associate Dentist

MEMBER NEWS

PROMOTED

EBINGER

QUIBELL

ELHARD

PROMOTED

SEYMOUR

AAKRE

NIKLE

FOSSUM

KOTCHIAN

MANNEY

PROMOTED

WOLD

PROMOTED

CHAFFEE

KATZENMAIER

FRANCO

GALBREATH

PROMOTED

PROMOTED

KOSSAN

PROMOTED

GERLACH

SCANTLEBURY

PROMOTED

SMITH

Want to see yourself here? Email your company or people news to us at thebridge@fmwfchamber.com or visit fmwfchamber.com/member-news.

PROMOTED

THOMAS

PROMOTED

Please note: All submissions are run two months after they are received.

PANGRAC

Recognitions & Certifications Houston Engineering, Inc. Jakob Ebinger, Engineer I

KLJ

Cindy Quibell, Project Control Specialist

KW Inspire Realty Cody Elhard, Realtor Heidi Kotchian, Realtor RyAnn Manney, Realtor

PARK CO., REALTORS®

Emma Wold, Accounting Coordinator

Southeast Human Service Center Dr. Tom Seymour, New Board Member

Sterling Management, LLC

Ranae Aakre, Senior Manager of Quality Assurance & Risk Management Erica Chaffee, President Matt Katzenmaier, Director of Construction Mason Kossan, Real Estate Financial Analyst Ingrid Scantlebury, Chief of Staff

West Fargo Public Schools

Brittnee Nikle, Director of Human Resources

Widmer Roel

Scott Fossum, Audit Manager Danny Franco, Audit Associate Jarrett Galbreath, Audit Supervisor Jennifer Gerlach, Senior Audit Associate Rebecca Smith, Senior Audit Associate Renelle Thomas, Senior Audit Associate

Collins and Krank | Raymond James Jeffrey M. Collins, financial advisor, member, 2021 Executive Council

Town & Country Credit Union

Melissa Kellerman, Branch Manager 32nd Avenue, Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor Stacia Sanders, Financial Services Officer, 52nd Avenue, Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor Kirsten Solway, Assistant Branch Manager Eagle Run, Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor

YHR Partners, Architects Adam Pangrac, Partner

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 25

Guest article

GUEST ARTICLE

The importance of men championing women at work

By Jodi Duncan, President, Flint Group

Many women will tell you; they already have a tough hill to climb, and 2020 simply made it worse. The past year will pile on to an already challenging environment and present new challenges. For example:

• It is estimated that four times as many women than men dropped out of the workforce in September 2020. That’s roughly 865,000 women compared to 216,000 men.

• CNBC estimated in November 2020, nearly 2.2 million women left the workforce between February and October 2020.

Additionally, men already outpace women in leadership positions by a significant margin. Men and women have vastly different experiences when it comes to work and leadership. Ask any woman in a leadership position and you will hear consistent themes of what was different for her compared to her male colleagues. Many obstacles are self-imposed resulting in a mindset where “women feel they must be 100% qualified to apply for a position while men will apply if they are 60% qualified.” The bar is set differently for women. The expectations are different for women. Judgement is different for women.

Consider this, “men are judged based on their potential; women are judged on their past performance.” Countless studies show how women are judged more harshly than men when it comes to business, employment, and leadership. Where men need to consider competency and masculinity, women have a plethora of relevant and non-relevant criteria that come into play. Appearance, clothing, weight, hairstyle, are evaluated very differently for women than men. Furthermore, women are often doing the “judging” of other women so this isn’t a “men versus women” problem. It’s an “everyone” problem.

About the author As president of Flint Group, Jodi Duncan has a 10,000-foot view of business and the ability to identify where and how it can grow. She is a strategist and communicator known for solving complex challenges.

She also is a leader, fostering a fast-paced, challenging work environment that (the right) employees thrive in. She leads by example, working alongside the Flint team pushing for each client’s success. Always pushing for the best, Jodi’s extensive marketing and business background drives Flint Group to discover what sets clients and industries apart – applying knowledge and insights to generate effective communications solutions for clients.

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MARCH 2021

How do we fix it?

• Understanding and talking about gender barriers and

considering solutions for your business is a great place to start. Honestly evaluate your organization on this. It’s easy to assume it’s not an issue. There are countless articles and resources available to help you evolve your company.

• Consider implementing leadership development programs for women in your organization.

• Think like a parent of daughters. Research shows that both male and female leaders that have daughters are more likely to champion gender diversity.

• Invite women into the conversation. It can be challenging for some women to jump into a male-dominated conversation for a variety of reasons including a simple, biological factor of having a quieter voice.

• Ensure your Board of Directors has balanced

representation that includes women. Women accounted for less than 20% of board positions in 2019. Women bring a unique perspective to male dominated boards especially in business. Non-profits typically have a higher number of women serving on their boards.

• Men in the workplace need to support women’s

professional growth. Many men want to champion women, but they aren’t sure how. If you sincerely want to know, ask another woman you know in a leadership position.

Most are more than willing to support your effort.

• Women need to support women. Far too often women

spend energy on tearing other women down. This makes us all weaker. Empowered women empower women.

Read the full version of this guest article on The Chamber blog at fmwfchamber.com/blog.

Are you a Chamber member and want to submit your own guest post? Find guidelines and instructions on the “write for us” button at fmwfchamber.com/publications.

100% Employee Owned

mooreengineeringinc.com

Bismarck • Minot • Valley City • West Fargo • Wahpeton • Williston

MOTIONLESS MOTIVATED

Let’s see what we can do together.

A TRUSTED ADVISOR CAN HELP YOU KEEP MOVING FORWARD.

bremer.com

What inspires you, inspires us.

Member FDIC

701.239.8500 | eidebailly.com

OPEN AND HIRING FOR ALL POSITIONS PAM REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OF FARGO Providing comprehensive, individualized treatment that fosters meaningful improvement and recovery for people with injuries, illnesses and disabilities.

4671 38th Street S. • Fargo, ND 58104

Apply online at PostAcuteMedical.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 27

CITY SPOTLIGHT

City of

HAWLEY

MAYOR: James Joy | CITY CLERK/TREASURER: Lisa Jetvig | CURRENT POPULATION: 2,143

Tell us about the history of your city.

Hawley went through several name changes until 1872, when it was named after Thomas Hawley Canfield, an officer with Northern Pacific Railway. Hawley was originally settled by a colony of immigrants from Yeovil in England, which is about 130 miles from London.

What kind of growth have you seen throughout recent years in your community?

Hawley’s location along Highway 10 has served it well attracting new businesses and families. With proximity to outdoor sports and the lakes area, Hawley is a natural home for outdoor enthusiasts, and Hawley Golf and Country Club is one of the best courses in our area.

Hawley hosts 124 successful small businesses, featuring commercial and industrial success stories. The business climate is only getting better, with new incentives in place and shovelready lots available in great locations.

Hawley is only minutes away from Fargo (and Hector International Airport) as well as Interstates 29 & 94.

Hawley’s schools are among the highest-rated in Minnesota—a state known for great schools. This is part of the attraction for young families moving to Hawley.

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MARCH 2021

What makes your community unique?

What is your vision for the future of your city?

Remember the town you grew up in? Hawley is still that town. Hawley has stayed small enough to stay safe and friendly, but still has something for everyone. There are several restaurant choices, great parks, wide streets—and Hawley is one of the few places left where you can build a brand-new home just a short walk from K-12 schools. Hawley hosts its own golf course, frisbee-disc course, and miles of walking/biking paths.

Hawley will continue to grow—and yet remain the kind of place you’d love to raise kids or start that new business.

What issues are city leadership paying close attention to right now?

Hawley continues to focus on economic development (for both new and existing businesses) and improving the quality of life for our residents. Hawley is continually adding options for highspeed Internet service, improving services (like our fire hall facility), and modernizing our infrastructure.

What success and challenges have you faced in recent years?

With many new families and new businesses calling Hawley “home,” expectations are higher than ever for bigger-town amenities and stores, like a local hardware store, pizza delivery and a sports bar-like hotspot.

How do you partner or work collaboratively with other nearby communities?

Hawley often shares emergency services with our neighboring communities.

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

Everything is closer in Hawley— closer families, closer outdoor activities, closer neighborhoods and a closer school family.

Anything else we should know?

We recently updated our website, which now includes a 360-degree “bird’s eye view” of Hawley, showcasing our great neighborhoods and school.

Check it out at CloserInHawley.com.

ENGINEERING CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS IS OUR JOB. BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES IS OUR PASSION. ULTEIG ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS Ulteig works in the Lifeline Sectors of power, renewable energy, water, and transportation, but our passion lies in strengthening the communities we serve. Whether it’s a new roadway or windfarm, substation or water treatment facility, we take our commitment to improving, maintaining, and revitalizing essential infrastructure seriously. Because we don’t just engineer sophisticated infrastructure solutions, we help to build stronger, safer, cleaner, and healthier communities. START YOUR NEXT PROJECT WITH ULTEIG.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 29

MEMBER PROFILE

PEOPLE’S CHOICE

CHI Friendship is a nationwide leader in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities, and in 2020, Chamber members voted them the People’s Choice award winner.

CHI Friendship has been providing individualized support to people with disabilities since opening in 1974. They encourage people to live life just like everyone else, including living, working and connecting with their community.

This work allows for people to have more control and choice in their lives. In Fargo, Friendship has four group homes and several apartment settings where people may be supported 24/7. They also provide vocational services, assisting people to work and volunteer.

Family Guardian Picnic

The mission at CHI Friendship calls for employees to “make the healing presence of God known in our world…” Healing comes in a variety of sizes and actions, and can be individualized or company-wide. Healing or a sense of well-being occurs when a person supported finds the job they’ve been looking for.

Healing occurs when we sit down to ask someone how their day is going. It can occur when a person supported is fully included into a group, congregation or a community. Living out their mission is a continuous journey for CHI Friendship.

In 2020, Friendship witnessed many accomplishments across the organization. The year was filled with rights being reinstated for many people, dreams coming true, organizational changes, remaining active and connected during COVID-19, and so much more. Their dedicated staff have done an incredible job at doing what needed to be done while strengthening their programs and services.

Community employment is a focus at Friendship as they believe all people they support can work and should have the same opportunities for employment. Educating business owners on the benefits of employing people with disabilities has created several long-standing jobs with area businesses.

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“Partnerships and education have led to meeting the needs of both parties by filling vacant positions with an untapped workforce,” said Dori Leslie, president of CHI Friendship.

Friendship also promotes inclusion within our community.

They are often educating others in the area of developmental disabilities. Friendship has partnered with local colleges, schools and other community organizations to educate others about the field of developmental disabilities. The organization has a strong awareness of community needs. They teach staff and people supported to contribute to their community, which paves the way for important relationships. Some of their community involvement includes United Way Day of Caring, Boy Scouts, holiday parades, backpack drives, volunteering at Bluestem concerts, donation drives, and hosting blood drives.

In turn, Friendship relies on donations to continue carrying out their work. Giving Hearts Day is one such opportunity.

Support on this day helps increase the quality of life for people with disabilities and helps people achieve their goals and dreams. Thanks to donors, they can make sure everyone remains safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reflecting on the last year, Leslie said: “Despite all the challenges throughout the year, Friendship has never been stronger – thanks to our staff, parents, guardians, board members, team members, community members, business partners, donors and friends. I have never doubted that we would persevere and prosper the way we did, thanks to all of you! The year 2020 has been a test for us all and Friendship is an organization that is built on a bedrock of faith, which remains a guiding light for us all.”

Looking forward, Friendship will continue to pioneer creative, individualized services for each person they support.

They will identify ways to continue to positively impact each person they support with the highest quality, and continue to do the good work that began so many years ago.

Nurturing Abilities, Achieving Dreams.

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

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

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

801 Page Drive in Fargo

Apply on-line at

Supporting People with Disabilities

chifriendship.com

(701) 235-8217

Life is for taking chances What do you live for?

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.

BANKING | MORTGAGE | INSURANCE* | TRUST & INVESTMENTS*

See Us First.

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See Us First. *Not FDIC or any federal agency insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 31

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Indigo Signs (formerly Indigo Signworks) was founded in 1996 by a passionate group of sign professionals dedicated to bringing a reliable local source of signage design, manufacturing, installation and service to the Red River Valley region. In the almost 25 years of service to our local communities, Indigo Signs has grown to over 140 employees in seven offices spanning the upper Midwest, serving our regional clients.

We have the largest staff of any sign company in the area, with offices in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, Minneapolis, Alexandria and St. Cloud. Our products are fabricated right here in Fargo, along with Minot and Minneapolis.

Our installation and maintenance crews cover the upper Midwest states, including North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Western Wisconsin, and Eastern Montana.

—Matt Brasel, General Manager ND Region

What makes your business unique?

Having a single source for all your signage needs reduces your stress and hassle completing your project on time and on budget. So, you can focus on what is important: your business. From interior signs to large pole signs, we have you covered with the most effective sign solutions.

We strive for excellence in all aspects of our working lives, from design, fabrication techniques, installation and service work. The commitment to excellence is shown through various awards Indigo Signs has received over the years ranging from Sign Builder Magazine Sign of the Year to Fargo-Moorhead Addy Award Winner for Best Sign Design.

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.

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What initiatives are you focusing on right now?

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

In 2020 Indigo Signs was focused on four critical initiatives: talent acquisition, manufacturing strategy, national/regional account growth & rebranding all of Indigo Signworks.

Although COVID-19 challenged all organizations to change and adapt on the fly at a moment’s notice, we stayed committed to always learning, innovating and growing to provide world-class customer service to our customers.

Community stewardship – After spending the past 10 years in Kansas, it is great to return to the ND/MN area, where I was born and raised. During my 37-year career in the sign industries, it has been paramount to give back to all the communities these organizations have been a part of.

Community involvement and stewardship helps us all to develop the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Fast facts • Total employees: 142

• Year founded: 1996

• Office locations: Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Minot in North Dakota; Minneapolis, Alexandria, and St. Cloud in Minnesota

• Company awards: Fargo-Moorhead Addy Award Winner for Best Sign Design, Sign Builder Magazine Sign of the Year

Program & Event Sponsors Thank you to all of our sponsors that make The Chamber regular events and programs possible.

BUSINESS TRAINING

EGGS & ISSUES

WOMEN CONNECT

PROGRAM SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR SUPPORTING SPONSORS SUPPORTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Forum Communications Printing Minnesota State Community and Technical College WEX Health, Inc.

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.

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

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

LEADERSHIP FMWF

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Gate City Bank

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency Essentia Health | Midco Minnesota State Community and Technical College

AGRIBUSINESS

EDUCATION

MILITARY AFFAIRS

PUBLIC POLICY

PROGRAM SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Choice Bank

AE2S Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Bremer Bank First International Bank Moore Engineering, Inc. Sanford Health

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

Daughter – Sister – Friend – Grandma

CARING FOR WOMEN AT EVERY AGE Trusted care for every age and stage of life. When it comes to gynecological care, it can be hard to know what’s normal and when it’s time to ask a compassionate provider. From periods to menopause, our women’s health teams are here to answer all your hard to ask questions.

Women’s health care like nowhere else.