The Bridge: October 2020 by The FMWF Chamber of Commerce

Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s General Election preview p.12

Meet the Ambassador teams p.28

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

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2020

FEATURE:

A look inside area K–12 schools

6 12 18 28

Election 2020: The November races and dates

Ambassadors: Announcing the new teams

Member profile: Valley Senior Services

ADVERTISER INDEX AAA-The Auto Club 17 Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND 10 Boulger Funeral Home 17 Cole Papers, Inc 25 Cornerstone Bank 5 Dakota Carrier Network 22 First International Bank & Trust 21 Heritage Homes 15 Indigo Signworks 18 Knight Printing 25 Microsoft 15 Midco 22 ND Secretary of State 13 Network Center 17 Pro Resources 21 ReadiTech 21 Sanford Health Plan 9

Find The Chamber online @fmwfchamber

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

2 3 4 5 14 16 16 17 17 20 23 24 25 26

Meet the volunteers Letter from leadership CHAMBER NEWS

Shop local Membership matters CHAMBER EVENTS

Upcoming events Annual Celebration highlights PROGRAM UPDATES

Leadership FMWF Professionals of Color Young Professionals Network MEMBER NEWS

New Members Anniversaries Ribbon Cuttings Company News People News

WEBSITE

CONTENTS podcasts

• Episode 5: Louise Dardis, 2020 ND Census co-chair on this year’s Census efforts and importance

• Episode 6: Highlight on hunger in our area

with the Cass Clay Hunger Coalition and Great Plains Food Bank Ending Hunger 2.0 Initiative.

Listen at fmwfchamber.com/podcast.

videos

Taking Care of You and Your Team During COVID-19—In this free

video with The Village, learn helpful strategies for better mindset, routines, gratitude, balance, resources and more. Watch at fmwfchamber.com/covid-19-updates.

NEW Member Spotlight videos • Gundersons Jewelry • Heritage Homes

Watch these videos to hear the great things happening around our metro, and what your fellow Chamber members are up to. Watch at fmwfchamber.com/member-spotlight.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 1

The Chamber has hundreds of volunteers giving their time and talents. Meet two of them below! 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

Board of Directors Sandi Piatz Chair

Shawn Dobberstein Chair Elect

Microsoft

Hector International Airport

Peter Stenehjem Treasurer

First International Bank & Trust

Tom Dawson Immediate Past Chair

Dawson Insurance

Jodi Duncan Member at Large

Flint Group

Anne Blackhurst

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Kevin Christianson Kyle Dorow Mike Dragosavich Chad Flanagan Steve Halverson Kara Jorvig Brittany Montecuollo Mark Nisbet Tami Norgard Joanna Slominski

Paces Lodging Corporation, Property Resources Group Essentia Health Spotlight Eide Bailly LLP Heartland Trust Company Allegro Group Sanford Health Xcel Energy Vogel Law Firm Mortenson

Agribusiness

Flint Group

Patti Cosgriff

Northwestern Bank

Dean Krogen

702 Communications

Ambassador Public Relations

Ambassador Member Relations

Wyatt Johnson Business Training

John Deere Electronic Solutions

Louise Dardis

Retired educator

Dan Cash

Midwest Radio of Fargo Moorhead

Education

Leadership FMWF

Brian Shawn Military Affairs Trevor Mathew

Professionals of Color

Midco

Tri-College University

Kirsten Jensen

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Women Connect

Celine Francisco Young Professionals Network

Darren Dunlop Business Development Manager @FMWFDarren Darin Feir Marketing Design Coordinator @FMWFDarin Tyler Fischbach Multimedia Marketing Coordinator @FMWFTyler Amanda Huggett Manager of Communications & Marketing @FMWFAmanda Alyssa Lakoduk Professional Development Coordinator @FMWFAlyssa

Tracy Meckler Membership & Advertising Sales Manager @FMWFTracyM Tracy Powell Director of Events and Programs @FMWFTracyP Mason Rademacher Public Policy & Workforce Development Coordinator @FMWFMason Bobbi Rehder Events Coordinator @FMWFBobbiJo

Choice Bank

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

The FMWF Chamber is a leader in the region as it advocates for business, education and members. This organization lives and breathes its mission, vision and strategic objectives to create and ensure growth and prosperity in our region.

What is the best professional advice you have ever received?

Be authentic, respect others and their contributions, work hard, always do your best to make a difference in your organization/business, and genuinely enjoy your career.

What do you do for fun when you are not working? Read, cook and spend time with family and friends.

Mickayla Thompson Member Relations Coordinator @FMWFMickayla Julie Yourczek 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 of fices. 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

The committee members from K-12 and post-secondary education and business sectors are keenly invested in assisting students’ exposure to the world of work and basic workplace skills, as well as students’ and parents’ understanding and awareness about the vast array of career options and the pathways to pursuing careers. This should inform decisions that result in students’ preparation and employment readiness and businesses have employee hiring options—a win-win for both sides.

Casey Sanders Manager of Membership @FMWFCasey

Choice Bank

Tim Flakoll

Public Policy

Jim Parsons Interim CEO, VP of Finance & Operations @FMWFJim

Katie Mastel Government Affairs & Advocacy Manager @FMWFKatie

Committee Chairs Roger Reierson

Chamber Staff

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

OCTOBER 2020

Louise Dardis

• Education committee, Chair • Retired Assistant Superintendent, West Fargo Public Schools • North Dakota Census 2020 Co-chair

I’ve worked in higher education for nearly 40 years. Since 2014, I’ve served as the 11th president of MSUM. Prior to that, I was the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at MSUM. In addition to MSUM, I’ve worked at a large research university, small private liberal arts colleges, and comprehensive regional universities.

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

Serving on The Chamber board is an opportunity to give back to a community I love and learn from other leaders as we strive to create the strongest community possible. At every board meeting, I learn more about how MSUM can partner with the business community in ways that benefit students, employers and the community at large.

How else are you involved around the community?

I serve on several other boards of directors, including Eventide Senior Living, Downtown Moorhead, Tri-College University, and the EDC. I have also served on the board for United Way.

What do you do for fun?

For me, work is fun. There is nothing more rewarding than preparing the next generation of scientists, artists, educators, leaders and entrepreneurs. I enjoy attending university events and witnessing firsthand the talent and resilience of our students. I also enjoy spending time with my dogs, running, and being the best grandma I can be.

What’s your best advice for future leaders?

Be intentional about your leadership development. Take every opportunity to learn from other leaders, reflect on your own successes and failures, and build new skills that will help you meet the challenges and opportunities of our changing world.

Anne Blackhurst

• Board of Directors: 2018–present • President, Minnesota State University Moorhead • 2018-20 Co-chair, Education committee

A letter from The Chamber As I write this, we have just wrapped up our Annual Celebration event. Despite moving to a virtual format, our entire Chamber team was thrilled to celebrate with you. This annual event serves as a reflection on the past year and the kickoff to what’s ahead, plus honors the accomplishments of local leaders. This year we were honored to name Steve D. Scheel the Legacy Leader. We are gearing up for a smashing 2020-21 fiscal year, with many exciting plans in the works. While we don’t yet know what COVID-19 has up its sleeve, regardless, we will remain poised to get involved in important policy work, stay tuned to workforce development, explore educational opportunities, offer professional training, and be ready to serve our members and our region. In this issue of The Bridge, we are diving into two important topics: area education and the upcoming election. No matter which side of the aisle—or river—you are on, we encourage you to research the issues, learn about the candidates and measures, and show up to vote. Being civically engaged is so important to exercising your rights and influencing the change that you believe in. October 22 is national Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day. But we want to use this month to turn it around and say thanks to you. We are constantly inspired by the ingenuity and resilience of the people and organizations that call the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area home. We truly believe that together, we can do more. And your trust and support means the world to us. Next month, we’re fired up to support Small Business Saturday, and want to remind everyone the importance of buying local, shopping small and choosing Chamber members. We invite you to join us in visiting the businesses right here so that your dollars can stay and make a difference in the lives of the business owners and employees who share their spaces with us. We are filled with gratitude and hope as we think about what is next. We are still searching for the next Chamber president, and can’t wait to welcome a new leader soon to share in all that is great about our Chamber and our community. Stay tuned for more, and thank you.

Jim Parsons

Interim CEO, VP of Finance & Operations The Chamber

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 3

CHAMBER NEWS

THE

importance OF

buying local

Small Business Saturday is coming November 28! When you shop local, you do far more than get items you need quickly and conveniently. Buying local actually stimulates the economy in our community, helps benefit local schools and charities— and it even helps the environment. During these times especially, small businesses need our support more than ever. According to research conducted by American Express, 62% of U.S. small businesses reported that they need to see consumer spending return to preCOVID levels by the end of 2020 in order to stay in business. Fortunately, the Small Business Recovery Research shows that three-quarters of U.S. consumers are looking for ways to Shop Small® and support their community. Find information and tools at ShopSmall.com, including educational resources for small business owners navigating COVID-19 and special savings on curated solutions to help owners market their business. Next month, we will be recognizing current and local Chamber member small businesses about what your support means to them. Want to be included? Let us know if you’d like to be featured by emailing csanders@fmwfchamber.com.

Buying Local Keeps Money in Our Community When you buy local, the small business you’re making your purchase from certainly benefits, but the benefits keep growing. A small business that does well is likely to hire more people, who then spend more money in the community. Buying locally also pours money into the local institutions who need it. Taxes are paid locally, boosting the community’s libraries, schools, and infrastructure. Local businesses are also more likely to donate

In fact, when independent think tank The New Economics Foundation compared similar purchases made at chain stores vs. those made with local businesses, the experts determined that buying locally puts double the money into the community than occurs when you make a purchase at a chain store.

Buying Local Results in More Diverse Choices for Customers When you go to one big box store after another, you’ll see the same product choices, over and over. The only real difference is in price — and often that difference is a matter of pennies.

the offerings at chain stores, which all seem to look the same. Local artisans and craftspeople can show off their wares and build a following when you shop locally.

Buying locally is a whole different experience. Each small business in our community is unique, offering a true connection with customers and a real understanding of their visitors’ needs. Think about the diversity of stepping into a local boutique to do some clothes shopping versus perusing

In addition, local businesses are typically far more flexible, adjusting to meet the immediate needs of customers much more quickly than giant national chains can do. They can also do a better job of stocking the products our community members want, since they’re part of the community.

Buying Local Is Better for the Environment Whether you buy online or from a major chain store, it typically requires some major effort to get your item to you. Trucks have to haul products across the country, burning up fossil fuel and contributing to pollution. In addition, products that have to be packaged for shipping typically end up requiring extra packaging to survive the journey intact. Compare buying, say, a pre-packaged set of

nails at a big box store — with your purchase sealed in one of those packages that practically require power tools to open — to picking out just the nails you need at your local hardware store, with the friendly local owner popping them into a simple paper bag (or even into the bag you brought yourself). All that extra packaging typically ends up in landfills or the ocean, adding to environmental damage.

Buy Local to Help Keep Our Community Unique Related to the previous reason to buy locally is the idea that those unique products lead to a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. No one goes to a big box store to browse or to enjoy recreational shopping. But when your local shopping district is filled with local retailers, you create a sense of self-image that help defines our community. Our unique businesses are something to be proud of, and when we all support them, they create a reason for other shoppers to come visit our community. By supporting local businesses, we can also help entrepreneurship thrive, which adds to

4 THE BRIDGE SMALL OCTOBER 2020 WE SUPPORT

to charities in the local community, helping make improvements that all can enjoy.

local prosperity and innovation. Every local retailer is one of our neighbors who has taken a risk to try to make our region a better, stronger place, boosting the economy and helping lift friends and neighbors into the middle class. When we all look for ways to buy local, we tell all our neighbors that we believe our community is worth investing in. We put our money into things we care about, including our local schools, and we enjoy a better purchasing experience overall personally. Shopping and buying locally is a win-win for you, for small businesses, and for our community as a whole.

CHAMBER NEWS

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Membership poll In the eBridge, we asked our members to respond to a poll about member benefits. Here’s what they had to say: Poll question: Your Chamber membership includes many benefits.

Of the three listed below, which do you find most valuable?

16% Use of the MIC (job postings, deals and member connection) 28% Access to Chamber publications 56% Member pricing at Chamber events Thanks to everyone who participated! We’ll be back with more poll questions in future eBridges. Want to get yourself on the list? Sign up for Chamber emails at fmwfchamber.com/communication.

Save with Chamber hot deals! Did you know that you can redeem deals from Chamber member businesses on our website? And, if you’re a member, you can submit your own deal to share with the community!

Check out these current deals: • Patrick Metzger Professional EOS Implementer, Coach & Speaker:

FREE 90-Min EOS® Leadership Team Meeting

Write for us!

• Gunderson’s Jewelers:

All members of The Chamber are invited to submit guest articles to be published in Chamber communications! These may appear on our blog or in The Bridge newsletter. To find out guidelines and how to submit, click the “write for us” button at fmwfchamber.com/bridge-archives.

$4 off with code

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• Puzzled Escape Rooms:

See them all at fmwfchamber.com/hotdeals. Remember, you can reach out any time to connect with a Chamber staff member or discuss how to maximize your membership. Call us at 218.233.1100 or email info@fmwfchamber.com.

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FMWFCHAMBER.COM 5

2 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVERVIEW - FEATURE - K–12 EDUCATION OVE

EDUCATION FEATURE

K–12 Education Overview

We are lucky to have a strong educational system for both K-12 and higher ed in our region. Our schools continue to have high standards, receive national attention and are seeing incredible growth. Our educational community has proven a vital link to filling area workforce needs, preparing students today for the jobs of tomorrow and readying them for success. This month, we’re looking at the school districts other than the three largest (Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo, which you’ll find on the Eggs & Issues recap page). We asked each district to answer a series of questions about challenges, successes, plans, growth and goals. Find all of their answers on our blog, or keep reading to see how they answered the following question:

Central Cass

Superintendent: Morgan Forness Current enrollment: 999 Central Cass is committed to making data-driven decisions to ensure continuous improvement and accountability. To achieve this, we have developed a strategic plan that serves as a compass to maintain the priorities, goals, and achievements of the school district. Engaging community stakeholders about what is the most comprehensive approach to providing educational experiences for students we serve is essential to understanding what is critical to the community. This plan responds to growth and opportunity, sustainability of programs, and community needs.

Grace Lutheran School Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton School District Interim Principal: Susan Jahnke Current enrollment: 80 students, K-8

Superintendent: Bryan Thygeson Current enrollment: 1,570 Employees: 240 As a district, we align our district goals to support student needs. We are excited to have successfully passed our referendum in Fall of 2019 that will provide many additional opportunities to students.

6 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

Grace Lutheran School is owned and operated by the Red River Lutheran School Association, ministry of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, and serves students pre-K through 8th grade in a Christ-centered, family atmosphere. Grace Lutheran School is committed to assisting parents in educating their children in the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Students at Grace are nurtured individually according to their unique talents, with emphasis on building Christian character, allowing them to reach their highest potential academically, socially, emotionally and physically.

EDUCATION FEATURE

Northern Cass School District

Superintendent: Dr. Cory J. Steiner Current enrollment: 665 Pre-K to 12 We are a district in the midst of a major transformation to a personalized competency-based learning (PCBL) system. We have eliminated letter grades and grade levels, and have begun building in learner agency (voice and choice) in all our learning centers. The traditional model of ‘sit and get’ no longer is a norm in our district. We are a small school with big school opportunities. Our learners earn college credit that our district pays so every learner has a chance to reach their goals. We have provided paid internships for our learners in partnership with businesses in the metro area. We believe every learner can change the world; therefore, we will provide a world-class education.

Park Christian School

President: Chris Nellermoe Current enrollment: 400

Oak Grove Lutheran School

President: Mike Slette Academic Dean: Aimee Zachrison Current enrollment: 726 Pre-K to 12 The learning experience for students at Oak Grove is grounded in strong academics, faith formation and service to others. While satisfaction levels with distance learning last spring were high, we know that students thrive best in a face-to-face setting. The profession of teaching is a connection of heart and mind, and that is what we see coming through in our classrooms between teachers and students. The resiliency and the adaptability of our kids is amazing—their energy and the excitement for school has not diminished in spite of students being spread out, wearing masks and not having a “normal” school routine. Our teachers are in the classrooms, working hard, navigating new scenarios every day with students both face to face and synchronously with students online. Our teachers are doing things we have not yet perfected as part of our pedagogy, and all are doing it with great success.

Since 1981, Park Christian School has been educating the next generation of leaders in the Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo region. PCS’s core values embrace a biblical worldview while partnering with Christian parents and the local church to equip students to be a Christ-like influence and to develop Christ-like character. Park Christian’s thoroughly Christian education, veteran teaching staff, 14:1 student to teacher ratio, and commitment to academic excellence has resulted in a confident tradition of student success. Students graduate from PCS strong in their faith and well prepared for the rigors of college, career and relationships. PCS is accredited through Cognia (formerly AdvancED) and ACSI and is guided by these governing bodies to continue to enhance student learning within our Christ-centered academic community.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 7

EDUCATION FEATURE

St. John Paul II Catholic Schools

St. Joseph’s School

President: Mike Hagstrom Current enrollment: 1,147

Principal: Andrew Hilliker Current enrollment: 225

The mission of St. John Paul II Catholic Schools is “to inspire excellence by teaching the total person and fostering the following of Christ, as taught by the Catholic Church.” JPII Catholic Schools serves the families of its eight sponsoring Catholic parishes in the Fargo-West Fargo area as well as Catholic families from Moorhead with that holistic, faithintegrated approach to education. We also welcome non-Catholic families who seek to be a part of our tradition of excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, and service. From the first Catholic school in Fargo in 1882 to our five schools today (Shanley High School, Sullivan Middle School, Holy Spirit Elementary School, Nativity Elementary School, and Trinity Elementary School), we have been teaching and forming good citizens for this world and the next. Currently, we have more than 6,700 living alumni.

An independent school in Moorhead, St. Joseph’s School is the oldest school in the Red River Valley. Opening in 1880, St. Joe’s has experienced significant change in the last 140 years, but the constant has been an exceptional academic and spiritual option for families in the Fargo-Moorhead area. St. Joe’s is blessed to be the Parish School of both St. Francis de Sales’ Parish and St. Joseph’s Parish. Currently, St. Joe’s School serves students in preschool through 8th grade with a total enrollment of about 230 students.

Want to get involved in area education efforts? The Chamber has an Education committee focused on connecting educators and employers together as we seek to address the workforce needs of our community and region. This committee is open to any Chamber member employee, and meets the second Wednesday of each month. For more information, contact Mason Rademacher at mrademacher@ fmwfchamber.com or 218.233.1100. EDUCATION SUPPORTING SPONSOR

8 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

For the full answers and more information on each school district, visit The Chamber blog at fmwfchamber.com/blog.

About Campus FM Campus FM is an initiative to grow our area’s workforce capacity and capability by retaining college students in the metro. It follows the collective impact philosophy, aimed at coordinating previously unconnected efforts to maximize each of their end results. Campus FM will serve as the backbone organization to converge the work already being done to engage students, creating one system of student engagement. Campus FM is currently in the coalition-building and context discovery phase. Folkways has been hired to meet with and bring to the table staff focused on student engagement from the Tri-College University system with the intent to create a coordinated network of student engagement professionals. Slotted for the future is the development of an index to serve as a leading indicator of student engagement and the creation of additional networks from areas outside of the higher education system. Fueling Our Future is proud to have contributed funding to Campus FM.

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EDUCATION FEATURE

K–12 update with our area superintendents EGGS & ISSUES RECAP

This year’s school session started out a bit differently than usual. As schools across the country debated in-person versus virtual learning and considered safety precautions amidst a pandemic, parents were also faced with deciding what path to put their family on. In early September, we sat down for a livestream Eggs & Issues discussion with the superintendents

of our three largest school districts to talk about what plans looked like across our metro schools and how they are prepared for protecting the health and safety of staff and students. Each district is still seeing signs of growth in terms of increasing enrollment and the need for new buildings.

Rupak Gandhi

Beth Slette

“As we get ready to reopen schools, it’s important to us to make sure that regardless of which school you attend, you have an opportunity for an equal and equitable education,” Gandhi said. “What that means to us, is to be successful in not only in academics, but around the whole child, and focusing on social-emotional learning as well.”

Slette echoed many of the same sentiments Dr. Gandhi shared, adding that while they did not have a 1:1 device initiative in their elementaries, they did in secondary levels, to ensure that all children had access to devices in the case of moving to a fully distanced model.

Fargo Public Schools

“Recognizing that we are going into this school year without a vaccine and potentially fluid instructional models, it was important for us to invest our CARES dollars into bridging the technology gap and bought a learning device for all students in K-12. The remainder of funds were used for PPE and professional development needs.”

MISSION: Achieving excellence

by educating and empowering all students to succeed.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:

• Student achievement and growth • STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts & mathematics • Positive school culture & safety • Engagement and experiences in co-curricular activities • Community outreach and communication • Equitable resources and planning • Continuous improvement and accountability

NUMBER OF SCHOOLS: 23 ENROLLMENT: 2020–21: 11,376 2019–20: 11,410 STAFF: 3,179 employees

West Fargo Public Schools

“We want zero close contacts,” Slette said. “We know we will have students and staff that come down with COVID-19, so when it does, we want to ensure that they are able to physically distance, and wear their masks to reduce the likelihood of infection. We are listening to medical experts and trying to understand what people’s needs, hopes and fears are for their children, and give them the best experience we can. Our goal is to have 100% of students in school full time, while doing everything we can to mitigate spread and be strong and healthy.”

MISSION: Educating today’s

learners for tomorrow’s world.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:

• All students will be empowered to continuously develop, improve, and connect 21st century skills and academic proficiency in all content areas. • All students will graduate ready to pursue lifelong learning, find their passion, and contribute to society. • All students will be engaged in nurturing and safe learning environments that allow them to grow and develop their physical, social, and emotional wellbeing.

NUMBER OF SCHOOLS: 21 ENROLLMENT: 2020–21: 11,931

Brandon Lunak Moorhead Area Public Schools

Mentioning that many of the same measures are being taken in Moorhead, Lunak talked about limiting contact. In K-4 and 5-8 buildings, music and various rooms have been converted to classrooms, and lunches will be served in those rooms. “Our motto is we never want to let a crisis go to waste,” Lunak said. “This will force us to think differently in terms of how we deliver education in the future. We will continue to move forward and make the changes necessary as this pandemic moves through.”

MISSION: Develop the maximum potential of every learner to thrive in a changing world.

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:

• Support the needs of the 21st century learner • Build responsive communication systems • Provide equitable educational facilities and technology tools • Provide equitable programs and services to all students • Create a safe and caring environment for all students

NUMBER OF SCHOOLS: 8 ENROLLMENT: 2020–21: 7,081

2019–20: 6,836 STAFF: 1,637 employees

2019–20: 11,443 STAFF: 2,796 employees

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 11

November 2020 General Election Preview The Chamber is dedicated to providing election resources to our members and the community. We encourage you to take advantage of these materials and opportunities as you prepare to cast your vote. Below you will find what is

on your ballot, information about North Dakota’s statewide constitutional measures, opportunities to get to know the candidates and how to vote early or on election day. Find more information at fmwfchamber.com/local-elections.

Candidates on the Ballot NORTH DAKOTA President & Vice President of the United States • Joe Biden & Kamala Harris (D)

• Jo Jorgensen & Jeremy “Spike” Cohen (L)

MINNESOTA State Treasurer

State House

DISTRICT 46 LEGISLATORS

• Mark Haugen (D)

• Ben Koppelman (R)*

Insurance Commissioner

• Andrew Marschall (R)*

State Senate

• Thomas Beadle (R)

• Jon Godfread (R)*

• Donald Trump & Mike Pence (R)*

Public Service Commissioner

Representative in Congress

• Brian Kroshus (R)*

• Kelly Armstrong (R)* • Steven James Peterson (L) • Zach Raknerud (D)

Governor & Lt. Governor

• Shelley Lenz & Ben Vig (D) • Doug Burgum & Brent Sanford (R)* • DuWayne Hendrickson & Joshua Voytek (L)

State Auditor

• Joshua C Gallion (R)* • Patrick Hart (D)

• Casey D Buchmann (D)

Superintendent of Public Instruction (Non-Partisan) • Kirsten Baesler* • Brandt J Dick

Legislative Races

(One Senator and two House members will be elected) DISTRICT 16 LEGISLATORS

• Hamida Dakane (D)

• Tracey L Wilkie (D)

• Jim Roers (R)*

DISTRICT 22 LEGISLATORS

• Ben M Hanson (D)

• Joe Biden & Kamala Harris (D)

State House

• Jo Jorgensen & Jeremy “Spike” Cohen (L)

State Senate

• Ben W Hanson (D)

• Donald Trump & Mike Pence (R)*

• Mark Weber (R)

• Shannon Roers Jones (R)*

• Laetitia Hellerud (D)

State House

• Michael Howe (R)* • Jodi Meisch (D) • Brandy L Pyle (R)* • Will Thompson (D) DISTRICT 44 LEGISLATORS

State Senate

• Tim Flakoll (R) • Merrill Piepkorn (D)*

State Senate

State House

• David A Clemens (R)*

• Karla Rose Hanson (D)*

• Joshua A Boschee (D)*

• Kari Breker (D)

• Terri Hedman (D)

President & Vice President of the United States

• Scott Wagner (R)

• Jim Kasper (R)*

Cass County Commissioner District 1

• Chad Peterson* • Lydia Tackett

District 3

• Jim Kapitan • Ken Pawluk*

District 5

• Marty Johnson • Mary Scherling*

Education amendments

This measure would amend the North Dakota Constitution in regards to the State Board of Higher Education. Some of the noteworthy changes include expanding the board, increasing the term length of members, prohibiting consecutive terms and disallowing legislators and state employees from serving. 12 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

• Matthew Gilbertson • Ryan T. Jensen • Alexa Dixson-Griggs • Quindlynn Overland

• Tina Smith (D)*

• Laura Caroon

• Jason Lewis (R)

Ward 2

Representative in Congress – District 7

Ward 3

• Collin C Peterson (D)*

Ward 4

• Michelle Fischbach (R) DISTRICT 4 LEGISLATORS

• Larry Seljevold* • John Bell • Steve Lindaas*

State Senate

• Dave Anderson

• Mark Larson (R)

• Jeremiah Jones

• Kent Eken (D)*

CLAY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

State House – 4A • Edwin Hahn (R)

• Heather Keeler (D)

State House – 4B

• Brian Anderson (R)

Note: Other races may be on your ballot for judgeships, district roles, school board and more. Check your state’s sample ballot for an accurate full listing of races (vote.nd.gov or myballotmn.sos.state.mn.us).

The Chamber Board of Directors voted to oppose this measure as expanding the board will only compound the foundational issues the board faces. A one-size-fitsall model doesn’t work for such varying institutions that the board oversees, and the pool of candidates would slim to a concerning extent due to the requirement of only two individuals holding a bachelor’s degree from the same institution.

Ward 1

U.S. Senator

* indicates incumbent

NORTH DAKOTA MEASURE 1 — State Board of Higher

each ward will be elected)

• Kristine A Thompson

• Paul Marquart (D)*

North Dakota Statewide Ballot Measures

Moorhead Council Members (One from

NORTH DAKOTA MEASURE 2 — Constitutional amendments approval process amendments

This measure would amend the North Dakota Constitution in regards to the process of approving citizen-initiated constitutional amendments. The measure would require any voter approved initiated constitutional amendment to be approved with a majority vote by the legislature in the following legislative session before becoming enacted. If the legislature failed to

District 1

• Benjamin Hammer • Jenna Kahly

District 2

• Frank Gross*

District 5

• David Ebinger

approve the constitutional amendment, it would be placed on the ballot at the next statewide general election and would be enacted only if approved by voters again. Currently, after being approved at a statewide election, a constitutional amendment becomes effective. The Chamber Board of Directors has not voted to take an official stance on this ballot measure.

ELECTION 2020

Meet the Candidates

Virtual Candidate Forums

The Chamber does not endorse candidates for political office; however, we are dedicated to sharing educational opportunities for our community to be educated engaged citizens when they head to the polls. This year, for the safety of the candidates, Chamber members and community, instead of an in-person option, we will be going all virtual with our election resources! The week of October 12, we will hold five separate candidate forums for the legislative districts in the region.

These virtual events will allow all candidates to provide opening and closing remarks, as well as answer prewritten questions, and live questions from you. Joining these forums is easy. Watch the eBridge or our website for a link to join live, or check our social media and website for recordings. We will post forum times on our website, social media, eBridge and evites. Have a question for the candidates? Email Katie at kmastel@fmwfchamber.com.

• Early voting begins October 19 at 9 a.m. • Vote in person at any of the six voting sites in metro Cass County or Casselton.

We are again providing you with written questionnaires from the candidates. Check our webpage to learn more about the candidates across our metro!

Moorhead City Council Candidates

Just as we did with Fargo and West Fargo City offices, we will be releasing a video featuring our Moorhead City Council Candidates. Check our virtual election resources in late October to find this resource.

All candidates will be invited to participate in their respective race resources; however, resources will be published excluding those that wish not to participate or fail to meet deadlines.

CASS COUNTY

• Mail-in/absentee voting: Request your ballot at vote.nd.gov. USPS recommends returning a ballot at least a week before the election.

Candidate Questionnaires

How to vote

CLAY COUNTY

Check the Cass County election page for early and election day voting times and locations.

• Mail-in/absentee voting period September 18 to November 2: Request your ballot at mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us. USPS recommends returning a ballot at least a week before the election.

Find your polling location and times on the City of Moorhead’s election page.

Note: Voting locations may have changed due to COVID-19.

• Vote in person at your polling location on election day.

Note: Voting locations may have changed due to COVID-19.

Voting in North Dakota:

Early Voter Ed

It takes ALL kinds.

Vote-By-Mail Marie

Election Day Dave

There are all kinds of voters. Like Early Ed, Vote-By-Mail Marie or Election Day Dave. They have one thing in common: they want to have a say in this election. They verified their voter information and figured out how and when to cast their votes. Having a plan ensures their voices will be heard.

What’s your plan to make your voice heard?

VOTE.ND.GOV FMWFCHAMBER.COM 13

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & EVENTS — Thank you to the sponsors that make these events and programs possible. Find them on page 29. —

Business Training

Eggs & Issues

Workforce Transformation: Navigating the New Normal

The Lowdown on the Downtowns Wednesday, October 7 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. | Livestream

Wednesday, October 14 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Livestream Not since the advent of the Industrial Revolution has the workplace undergone greater transformation than it has in the last 25 years. Beyond the not insignificant impacts of economics, technology and demographics, the workplace is influenced by the rising power of workers whose demands have gone well beyond traditional concerns about pay and benefits, work/life balance and community outreach.

Melissa Brandt

Lynn Billing

Spherion Staffing Services

Treating Your Customers Like NonProfits Treat Their Donors Wednesday, November 11 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Livestream

We’re in a bizarre new reality where there is an expectation and desperate need for personalization from clients Patrick Kirby and customers. So how do you, as a Do Good Better Consulting business, transform the way you interact with those you serve? Look to the non-profit world.

Women Connect

Fortitude & Resilience in a Time of Extraordinary Change Tuesday, October 27 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Livestream

Undoubtedly, COVID-19 is one of the most extraordinary events of our lifetime. It has generated exceptional financial, social and economic challenges for individuals, families and corporations. Women’s roles as professional, parent, spouse and caregiver, have become ever so demanding. At this session, we will address the many ways in which women are being called upon to work harder due to COVID-19.

Dr. Gladys Antonio Concordia College

Tuesday, November 24 | 3:30 to 5 p.m. | Livestream

Failure. It’s not a word that most of us are comfortable with. It’s certainly not something most of us would choose to experience. Nobody Dayna Del Val likes to fail, but women seem to be particularly The Arts Partnership terrified of it. Perhaps that’s because we get so many fewer chances to take risks than men do. But we all will fail. How do you pivot to get past the failure to discover the joy that can come of the new path you find yourself on, the joy that can only happen because of the failure?

OCTOBER 2020

Derrick LaPoint Downtown Moorhead Inc.

Tim Solberg City of West Fargo

At this session, get the lowdown on our downtowns. Our speakers will share about the current business, entrepreneurial and cultural spirit of their downtowns and the successes they are most proud of! We plan to cover infrastructure updates, strategic plans, and, of course, current and predicted future effects of COVID-19.

Homelessness & Hunger: Impacts on Our Community

Tuesday, November 3 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. | Livestream It is estimated that more than 1,000 individuals in our community experience homelessness each night. For many, homelessness is just one of many concerns. And this issue runs much deeper than what many of us can see or imagine. At this session, we will explore the impacts homelessness and hunger have on our community, possible solutions, and why it’s so socially and economically critical.

Building Inclusive & E quitable Workplaces

Unconscious Bias: Self-Awareness Leads to Organizational Awareness

You Failed? Just Get Up. Again and Again and Again.

14 THE BRIDGE

Downtown Community Partnership-Fargo

Thursday, October 8 | 10 to 11 a.m.

As individuals, each of us has unconscious biases, and if they remain unchecked, these biases show up in our organizations in our hiring practices, policy development and workplace culture. Here, we will talk about unconscious bias from an individual and an organizational perspective, and how these biases become barriers to innovation, differentiation and employee engagement.

Webinar 4: Cultural Competencies: What They are & Why They are Important Thursday, October 22 | 10 to 11 a.m.

As employers step into becoming a diverse, equitable & inclusive organization, they start thinking differently about talent attraction. They become intentional about recruiting talent with diverse worldviews. It’s important for businesses to equip themselves with cultural competencies to set everyone up for success. Learn the skillset and mindset of cultural competency and strategies for its development in your workplace.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Chamber 101

Young Professionals Network

Tuesday, October 20 | 4 p.m. | The Chamber Thursday, October 22 | 9 a.m. | Virtual

If you’re not familiar with The Chamber, are a new member, new contact, new hire, or just want to re-engage 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.

Professionals of Color

YPN Service Opportunity: Great Plains Food Bank

Thursday, October 15 | 4:30 to 6:15 p.m. Great Plains Food Bank, 1720 Third Avenue North, Fargo Looking to give back during this time? Join YPN at The Great Plains Food Bank! *Masks are required*

Lattes with Leaders

Friday, October 30 | 8 to 9 a.m. | Zoom

POC Discuss, Connect & Reflect: Walking with the Wind by John Lewis

Start your day with networking and learning from a prestigious local business leader, all while and getting your morning caffeine boost. This month’s Lattes with Leaders welcomes Tom Dawson, president of Dawson Insurance, Tom Dawson a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company, and The Chamber’s immediate past chair of the board! Tom will share his story and life lessons, and take questions from attendees.

Wednesday, October 7 | Noon to 1 p.m.

Join us for Professionals of Color’s book club, where together we will discuss readings, connect on topics and reflect on how content resonates with you! For our first meeting, please read to the end of Part IV or Chapter 12 of “Walking with the Wind” by Congressman John Lewis and come prepared to discuss. Don’t forget to check with your local library if you’d rather borrow the book! POC Members: Free | Non-Members: $10

YPN Book Club: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” Thursday, October 29 | 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Zoom

October Networking Before 9 Date TBD | 8 to 9 a.m. | Zoom

Join us for another great Virtual Networking Before 9 this month! Our local speaker will share their personal and professional story; come prepared to ask questions and learn! Bring your own breakfast and cup of coffee. Attendees will receive the Zoom link and instructions following registration. Stay tuned online to find out who this month’s speaker is!

Enjoy reading and discussing books on leadership and professional development with like-minded individuals? Join us for YPN Book Club! Each month, YPN will select a book and meet over lunch to discuss it. Amazon says, “In The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” author Stephen R. Covey presents a holistic, integrated, principle-centered approach for solving personal and professional problems.” More details about this book discussion to come soon! Save the date for November’s book, “Welcome to Adulting” by Jonathan Pokluda on November 17.

REGISTRATION

OUR REGION’S FIRST ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITY oF ITS KIND! FITNESS FACILITY

POOL

CLUBHOUSE

Life, lived your way!

PICKLEBALL COURT

GOLF SIMULATOR

CONNECT WITH US TODAY, 701-281-7184. HeritageFargoRanch.com

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 15

Chamber 1/8 page Ad October Issue.indd 1

9/10/20 11:23 AM

OCTOBER 2020

EVENT & PROGRAM UPDATES Highlights from our 10th Annual Celebration It was a virtual party last month as we rang in our 10-year anniversary as a merged chamber and celebrated with a new format for our ‘Annual Meeting,’ where we shared laughs, reflections and inspiration and honored some of the amazing individuals in our community. Taking a look at the last fiscal year, we all were hit with challenges, but are so proud of our region for pulling together to overcome and still have much to celebrate. After opening comments from our staff, Justin Forde representing presenting sponsor Midco shared remarks. Past president Tom Dawson took the stage to talk about the work of Fueling Our Future, public policy efforts, pivoting through COVID, and event and program accomplishments. Looking ahead, new board chair Sandi Piatz, shared a few sneak peeks into our plans for the next year and introduced special keynote speaker, Governor Doug Burgum.

Burgum talked to attendees about navigating a crisis and uncertainty. “It’s an opportunity for all of us during these times of great challenge to embrace change, shift gears, press ahead with a newfound purpose and take the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and our businesses,” he said. He also talked about servant leadership, the importance of putting people first, and the four values he thinks are most important for leaders today: curiosity, humility, gratitude and courage. He challenged us to grab hold of these values in our daily work. We also recognized Steve D. Scheel as the 2020 Legacy Leader through a touching video tribute with stories from his friends and colleagues. “I feel like I’ve never gone to work a day in my life because I so enjoy our business and our people,” he said. “I enjoy kicking off our leadership trainings and to impress upon our next generation of leaders how important culture is to a business.”

Leadership class hits the ropes The Leadership FMWF class took our annual trip to Wesley Acres in September, where the participants were able to participate in a number of team-building activities, and of course, tackle the ropes course. Thank you to Matt Weis, Edgecraft, for leading this year’s class through a safe and socially distanced event!

16 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

We want to give a huge thank you to all our volunteers, sponsors, Board of Directors, and members. We couldn’t do what we do without you. Thank you! Check out more moments by searching hashtag #FMWFCelebrate. And visit our blog to view all the videos from the event.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

OCTOBER 2020

EVENT & PROGRAM UPDATES Takeaways from MSUM’s Dr. Earnest Lamb We want to thank Dr. Earnest Lamb, MSUM’s Dean of the College of Arts, Media and Communications, for dropping by a late August Networking Before 9. Dr. Lamb shared his personal and professional journey and reflected on how experiences and history has shaped opportunities and access to education for him and his family. He recounted his moves across the country based on following music and academics, the instances of racism encountered along the way and the teachable moments that followed. Dr. Lamb talked about the questions we should be asking as we consider other populations and how to prevent educational inequality. For those finding themselves as the lone person of color in a place or organization, he advised them to think of it as being a trailblazer. And as we build diverse and inclusive communities, we should look at resources already out there and find ways to come together for a common goal and create a pipeline for future opportunity.

THERE’S NO STOPPING THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY.

JOIN US VIRTUALLY ON NOVEMBER 12, 2020 The first virtual nVision event is taking place this November. Don’t miss discussion and learning on data analytics, digital workspaces, security, cloud computing and more. Three session tracks to choose from: Business

Technical

Cybersecurity

Final agenda and event links are coming soon! Follow #nVision2020 on Twitter for updates and info.

YPN committee spots open! Looking to get more involved in YPN? Would you like to help guide YPN and our future programming? Apply to be on one of our committees!

• MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

Greet new members and connect with current members. Keep our members engaged in the program!

• SOCIAL

Coordinate YPN’s social events (both virtual and future in person events).

• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Select monthly book club picks, as well as the topics for our professional development trainings.

• CORPORATE CUP

Plan the annual Corporate Cup Event to be held in May.

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Plus, we have two new committees that are just beginning! • MEMBER RECRUITMENT

Help identify new and exciting ways to get new members interested in YPN.

• MARKETING

Help guide the marketing strategy for YPN. Learn more at fmwfchamber.com/YPN or contact Alyssa at alakoduk@fmwfchamber.com.

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 17

PROGRAM UPDATES

AMBASSADOR NEWS

Naming the Ambassador of the Year and announcing the new teams 2019–20 Ambassador of the Year:

2020–21 Member Relations Committee

Larry Olson

This year, Larry Olson of Talent Productions was chosen by his fellow ambassadors to receive the Public Relations Ambassador of the Year award. Talent Productions has been a 28year member of the Chamber! This particular award is named after long-time ambassador Wayne Saar, to honor someone who lives up to Wayne’s leadership, integrity, Chamber involvement and ribbon cutting attendance. Larry is one of our most dedicated ambassadors, serving on the committee for 15 years and making almost every meeting and ribbon cutting. Larry’s passion for this role is evident, as he is always a smiling face and enthusiastically gets to know every member he meets. Thank you, Larry for your dedication and hard work!

Left to right: Scott Berg, U.S. Bank (on screen); Erica Johnsrud, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River Valley; Dean Krogen, 702 Communications; Sheila Neuleib, Vitalant formerly United Blood Services; Kriss Burns, Pro Resources-Fargo; Dan Helm, Sir Speedy; Theodore Swiontek, Thrivent Financial-RFO; Kenneth Rosson, Arvig Media; Paul Balega, NAI North Central; Jody Rurup, Country Financial. Not pictured: Andy Streiff, Brokers Commercial Property; Lorelle Olson, Bremer Bank, N.A.; Sara Granger, Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley; Karleen Anderson, Midwest Radio of Fargo-Moorhead; Matt Nagel, HealthPartners.

2019–20 Team of the Year: BROOKS & FUNN

Front row: Captain Brooke Coauette, NAI North Central; Billy Nustad, Bell Bank. Back row: Dave Dondoneau, Midco; Nicole Birnbaum, Radio FM Media; Brandon Geffre, Aspire Bank; Angie Heil, Fargo VA; Patty Mastel, FM Area Foundation; Brad Aune, Job Service of ND; Nick Nupdal, Bank of the West. Not pictured: Michelle Donley, Bushel; Brenda Cornell, Job Service of ND; Jessica Hed, Fargo VA

18 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

PROGRAM UPDATES

2020–21 Public Relations Teams A big thank you to the C’Mon Inn for hosting the Public Relations Ambassadors as they kick off the new fiscal year! Front row: Brooke Coauette, NAI North Central; Brandon Geffre, Aspire Bank; Scott Steinmetz, Microsoft; Addie Long, City of West Fargo; Brittney Weber, Preference Employment Solutions; Captain Cora Turner, Homewood Suites by Hilton; Patty Mastel, FM Area Foundation. Back row: Aaron Hill, Fargo Brewing Company; Cody Klug, Network Center; Steffen Isane, Preference Employment Solutions. Not pictured: Amy Hannaher-Overby, Connect Interiors

TURN DOWN FOR WHAT

WE JILL ROCK YOU Left to right: Nicole Birnbaum, Radio FM Media; Captain Jill Mattson, Western State Bank; Lori Hager, JP Catholic Schools Network; Donn Groth, Midwest Radio; LuAnn White, Dakota Plains Realty; Brady Hersch, Starion Bank; Jessica Broers, Bremer Bank. Not pictured: Bryan McClean, BeMobile; Jamie Odegaard, Griswold Home Care of ND; Jodi Buchholz, Stoneridge Software; Julie Halverson, iDigital Media; Lindsey Gunderson, Dakota Plains Realty.

AHMANN NUTS Left to right: Scott Peters, Farmers Insurance; Dave Dondoneau, Midco; Captain Candice Ahmann, Express Employment Professionals; Angie Heil, Fargo VA; Larry Olson, Talent Productions. Not pictured: Barb Sizer, Eide Bailly; Dustin Long, Eide Bailly; Bryan Shinn, SaveCoin; Carol Seefeldt, Wired Up!; Taylor Danielson, iDigital Media; Trish Enger, HUB International Insurance; Jessica Hed, Fargo VA.

HANSONATORS Seated: Captain Levi Hanson, InterOffice. Left to right: Steve Asche, Thrivent Financial; Mitch Kudrna, Bell Insurance; Billy Nustad, Bell Bank; Alex Lacey, Gate City Bank; Tom Thompson, Freedom Resource Center; John Ross, Tri-City Storm Soccer. Not pictured: Jerry Christiansen, Freedom Resource Center; Shara Fischer, Heartland Trust Company; Chloe Reichel, First International Bank & Trust; Alisha Jacobson, Bottle Barn Liquors.

MITCH PLEASE! First row: Brian Heger, 702 Communications; Nick Nupdal, Bank of the West; Brad Aune, Job Service of ND. Middle row: Jace Holm, BlackRidgeBANK; Kathy Skramstad, AVI Systems. Back row: Captain Mitch Taralson, Bremer Bank. Not pictured: Brenda Cornell, Job Service of ND; Michelle Donley, Bushel; Kevin Spaulding, True|IT; Melissa Paul, Advanced Business Methods; Meredith Pittenger, American Gold Gymnastics; Jill Christopher, Ronald McDonald House. FMWFCHAMBER.COM 19

MEMBER NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Burian Associates, LLC urianassociates.com b

E ngineering urian & Associates, LLC is an engineering consultant B

with emphasis in planning, program management, project management, financial consulting, public relations, and government relations. We strive to provide our clients with best-in-class engineering and consulting services to ensure great opportunities are not missed, complex challenges are overcome, and infrastructure investments are smart and sustainable.

DakMinn Technologies, LLC akminntech.com d

C ontractors - General 5 Years Combined Experience: We have been servicing and 3

installing business solutions in the Red River Valley of the North since 1997. Diverse Yet Focused: We maintain a Power Limited Tech license, fully complying with Minnesota rules and regulations. We have maintained industry certifications from Mitel, Panasonic, and Symetrix. Over the years we have obtained manufacturer certifications from Toshiba, Ruckus, Panduit, AT&T Systimax, and Polycom. Serving Schools, Churches, Small and Medium Business: We are a small shop that provides a uniform presence and a one-on-one experience. Despite that we have managed systems with 99 sites in nine states and nearly 2,000 end points.

Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley f urnituremissionrrv.org F urniture - Home he Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley, a North Dakota T

non-profit corporation and 501c(3) tax-exempt organization, became a reality when a group of compassionate men and women discovered a vital need in the West Fargo/Fargo/ Moorhead area and surrounding communities to provide gently-used furniture and household items at no cost to people in crisis. These people in crisis include, but are not limited to, individuals or families who have suffered loss of their household belongings due to fire, storms, or flood or people starting a new life after homelessness, significant financial loss, abusive situations, or even incarceration. This organization is Christianbased and serves the needs of people regardless of religion, race, or sexual preference.

Henson Group ensongroup.com h

C omputer/Mobile App Software & Services he Henson Group is an award-winning Gold Certified Partner T

focused on the deployment of Microsoft technologies for U.S. and international companies. For over 17 years, Microsoft and its partners have recommended the Henson Group for licensing, consulting, and managed services to corporations large and small. From cloud and on-premise support to licensing the Henson Group consistently delivers world-class results for its clients worldwide.

20 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

Welcome to the following businesses who have invested in joining The Chamber. We encourage all our members to do business with each other.

Jade + Jasper s hopjadeandjasper.com

R etail - Stores/Ecommerce J ade + Jasper is a women’s clothing and accessories boutique

based in West Fargo.

JEM Coaching j oshmarineau.com/leader-coaching.html

E xecutive Coaching e help successful people or teams achieve a positive, W

measurable, long-term change in leadership behaviors. Real change takes discipline, courage, and humility. We are certified in the Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coaching process. This process involves these steps: 1) the leader develops a clear leadership goal they share with their stakeholders; 2) the leader builds an action plan based on stakeholder input; 3) the leader follows up with stakeholders regularly seeking feedback and suggestions for improvement; 4) results are formally measured over time with mini-surveys. Stakeholder Centered Leadership Coaching is designed to provide measurable results. This is unique to the coaching world and is why we chose this process over all the others to best serve leaders who desire real, lasting change. Dr. Marineau is also a tenured professor of Management at North Dakota State University College of Business.

Health Support Systems, LLC ealthsupportsystems.us h

B usiness & Professional Services ealthy Food Ingredients is an on-trend specialty ingredient H

supplier bringing food safety and supply assurance to protect your brand promise. We start with a sustainable supply chain, backed by IntegriPure®, our innovative micro reduction process, to offer a full portfolio of ingredients including non-GMO, organic and gluten-free pulses, grains, seeds, flax, expeller oils, and signature product Suntava Purple Corn™, with unique processing capabilities for milling, flaking and blending and consumer-ready products. Looking for a private label brand? We can help with that too! We are dedicated to delivering safe, healthy, premium-quality ingredients in partnership with our diverse grower network.

Want to find all our memebers? Search our online directory at fmwfchamber.com.

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22 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

Cable TV

Advertising

Midco.com/Business

MEMBER NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Nature of the North atureofthenorth.co n

Northland Vapor Company orthlandvapor.com n

The Piggy BBQ Restaurant t hepiggybbqofwestfargo.com

the outdoor community in the Fargo/ Moorhead metro area. We do this by breaking down the barriers that prevent people from going out into nature. We break down those barriers through education, gear rentals, trip planning, indoor rock climbing, and regular outdoor events/gatherings.

several different things such as a large array of CBD products, vapor products to get people off cigarettes, candles and much more. Northland Vapor Company was started by two brothers in efforts to help smokers quit. The eldest brother quit and their father quit using electronic cigarettes.

in May 2020. Legendary BBQ from Walker, MN. Featured in The New York Times, Minnesota Monthly, Lake Bride Magazine & More.

R ecreation ature of the North exists to build N

R etail – Stores/Ecommerce e are a retail vape shop and sell W

R estaurants, Food & Beverages he Piggy BBQ West Fargo opened T

OCTOBER CHAMBER ANNIVERSARIES

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

20 Years

15 Years

Lignite Energy Council

Town & Country Credit Union

Susan Mathison MD Ltd

Trader Law Office

10 Years

Trane

ADESA Fargo

Elmwood Family Dentistry

Sanford West Fargo Clinic

Arvig Media

Family Fare Supermarket

Sherwin Williams

Bethel Church

Goldstar Services

Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley / Youth Commission

Ihry Insurance, Inc.

State Farm Insurance David Eggers

Busek Olson and Associates Cargill, Inc. – North American Multiseed Division

Jemco/Max Air Kava Construction, Inc. Kinder Kloset

Taxman The Clinic: Family Health & Sports Chiropractic The UPS Store

M.J. Dalsin Co of N.D.

(13th Ave Location)

MTW Towing

Thrifty White Pharmacy #046

City of Mapleton

Northern Bag and Box Company

Total Imaging

City of West Fargo

NorthStar Safety, Inc.

Visto’s Trailer Sales

Cornerstone Bank

Payroll Express, Inc.

West Fargo Exchange Club

Dave’s West Fargo Tire & Service Center

Petro Serve USA (North)

West Fargo Fire Department

Doolittle’s Woodfire Grill

Red River Drywall & Decorating Services, Inc.

West Fargo Park District

Edward Jones Investments – Matthew De Vries CFP

Sandy’s Doughnuts and Coffee Shop

Choice Financial Health Savings Accounts

5 Years

Bank of the West Center for Special Surgery

West Fargo Police Department West Fargo Public Library

Jacobs

Senator Tom Campbell

Kennelly Business Law

TCF Home Loans

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 23

MEMBER NEWS

RIBBON CUTTINGS & GROUNDBREAKINGS AUGUST 2020

Balance Restored Chiropractic

Beyer ATA Inc

5454 51st Avenue South, Suite A, Fargo br-chiro.com

665 32nd Avenue East, West Fargo atafargo.com

RELOCATION

Custom Express Car Wash

Prosperity Health Pharmacy

1702 40th Street South, Fargo customexpresscarwash.com

5180 Prosperity Way South, Suite 106, Fargo prosperityhealthpharmacy.com

GRAND OPENING

Rough Cut Social

Vanne / Epic Companies

1100 Northern Pacific Avenue, Fargo roughcutsocial.com

1530 First Avenue North, Moorhead epiccompaniesnd.com

GRAND OPENING

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

GROUNDBREAKING

1. Publication Title

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

The Bridge

2. Publication Number

3. Filing Date

09/21/2020

4. Issue Frequency

5. Number of Issues Published Annually

6. Annual Subscription Price

The Bridge

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4 ®)

Contact Person

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443 Amanda Huggett

Telephone (Include area code)

218-233-1100 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443 Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443

Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Amanda Huggett, PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Amanda Huggett, PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443

10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Full Name Complete Mailing Address

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

PO Box 2443 Fargo, ND 58108-2443

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or None Other Securities. If none, check box Full Name

Complete Mailing Address

12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (Check one) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement) PS Form 3526, July 2014 [Page 1 of 4 (see instructions page 4)] PSN: 7530-01-000-9931

24 THE BRIDGE

OCTOBER 2020

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MEMBER NEWS

COMPANY NEWS Inc. magazine revealed that AdShark Marketing is No. 1179 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, a prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. AdShark Marketing makes its debut on the list with a 3-year revenue growth rate of 384% and ranks #1179 out of 5000 U.S. based companies. AdShark ranks No. 3 in North Dakota and joins this list with 9 other North Dakota companies this year. Hannaher’s Workplace Interiors announced that Paul Hannaher, CEO, and Joe Stanger, CFO, have sold their commercial furniture business to a group of long-time executives of the company, along with female investors from Atmosphere Commercial Interiors. Omni Workspace Company is a minority investor and Atmosphere’s parent company—both are headquartered in Minneapolis. The new company, known as Connect Interiors, will continue operating three locations in Fargo and Grand Forks, and Detroit Lakes, and has applied for a women-owned business certification. The Fargo Air Museum received an MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft, which was originally a North Dakota Air National Guard aircraft, on loan from the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The 119th Wing, known as the Happy Hooligans, operated the MQ-1 Predator from 2007 until 2018, when it was replaced with the MQ-9 Reaper. You may have seen the MQ-1 Predator flying around town for training purposes in years past, but now you can see one up-close and personal. The MQ-1 Predator is operated by a crew, consisting of a pilot and a sensor operator, from a ground control station (GCS). The aircraft stands 7 feet tall, measures 27 feet in length and has a wingspan of 48 feet 7 inches. Although equipped with surveillance technology for the primary purpose of reconnaissance, the Predator can also be armed for light attack in warzones.

Four-Color Printing Specialized Coatings Foil & Embossing Die Cutting

Fargo has won the 2020 Most Educated Cities Award for the state of North Dakota from Insurify. The Most Educated Cities Award recognizes communities across the United States that have proven their dedication to quality education. Fargo was also the recipient of Insurify’s 2019 Most Educated Cities Award. A special report by 24/7 Wall Street has named West Fargo the best city to live in North Dakota. The report gives the City of West Fargo high marks for population growth, median household income and median home value. West Fargo is the second fastest growing community on the list and is adding jobs rapidly, with the unemployment rate in the city 75% lower than the national rate. The report also notes West Fargo’s poverty rate is nearly half the 14.1% national rate. “It’s an honor to have the City of West Fargo named the best city to live in North Dakota,” said Commission President Bernie Dardis. “We know our residents, schools, parks and businesses make us an amazing place and it’s great to have that nationally recognized. It also shows the dedication our staff has for the community to continue to make West Fargo the best city possible.” The Career Development program at Sheyenne High School has received the Director’s Award of Excellence from the North Dakota Department of Career & Technical Education. The award is an acknowledgement of superior career and technical education programs in the state. The Sheyenne High School program was selected for providing and promoting service-learning experiences, offering timely occupational information to students concerning employment and labor market data, promoting gender equity, and the supporting nontraditional students.

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

Fargo, ND 58103 USA ph: 701.235.1121 knightprinting.com

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MEMBER NEWS

PEOPLE NEWS

PROMOTED

YAKOWICZ

ADAMS

PROMOTED

HOFFMAN

PROMOTED

ZAHARIA

PROMOTED

OLSON

SAMEK

SCHULER

SPELHAUG

GOOD

PROMOTED

BALSDON

PROMOTED

SIZER

HELLER

RHEAULT

PROMOTED

HONEA

PROMOTED

SEYMOUR

PROMOTED

HUOTARI

DAWSON

PROMOTED

LEE

PROMOTED

WALLIN

WILSON

DERHEIM

KOVATCH

MKPOZI

MUNRO

New Hires & Promotions AdShark Marketing

Jack Yakowicz, Business Development Manager

Beyond Realty

Chelsea Adams, REALTOR® Brady Good, REALTOS® Ally Rheault, REALTOR®

Cass County Electric Cooperative Dr. Tom Seymour, Board Member

Dawson Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company Alex Dawson, Private Client Team Leader Ryan Hoffman, Managing Director Fargo Operations Lydia Zaharia, Business Insurance Marketing Manager

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OCTOBER 2020

Eide Bailly LLP

Dawn Balsdon, Health Care Reimbursement Manager Matt Honea, Marketing Operations Manager Heather Huotari, BOS Manager Abby Lee, Tax Manager Sam Olson, Health Care Consulting Manager Shari Samek, Administrative Manager Barb Sizer, Tax Manager Kari Strube, Administrative Lead (not pictured) Justin Wallin, Health Care Reimbursement Manager Mackinzie Wilson, Audit Manager

Emerging Prairie

Mike Derheim, Grand Farm Board Member Jay Schuler, Grand Farm Board Member Taya Spelhaug (Microsoft), Grand Farm Board Member

Essentia Health

Dr. Michaela Heller, OB/GYN 32nd Avenue Clinic Dr. Jennifer Kovatch, Pediatric Hospitalist and Pediatric Oncologist Dr. Celestine Mkpozi, Hospitalist Dr. Jessica Munro, Optometry South University Clinic (pictured on next page) Dr. Mario Rivera Bernuy, Endocrinologist South University Clinic Andrea Solberg, CNP, Obstetrics and Gynecology, 32nd Avenue Clinic

MEMBER NEWS

PEOPLE NEWS

PROMOTED

RIVERA BERNUY

SOLBERG

JOHNSON

WIEDMAN

BENNING

PAUL

REYNOLDS

ANDERSON

BOSAK

HERZ

BONNET

SPRAGUE

CARLSON

JELLEBERG

SCHUMAKER

ANDERSEN

SANGER

PROMOTED

First International Bank & Trust Jason Johnson, Chief Financial Officer

H2M

Adam Wiedman, Art Director

KLJ

Jordan Benning, Help Desk Team Lead

KW Inspire Realty Benjamin Paul, Realtor Andrea Reynolds, Realtor

NetCenter Technologies

Bailey Anderson, Marketing Manager

Onsharp

Kevin Bosak, Senior Python Developer Krystle Herz, Client Success Manager

Spotlight

Emma Bonnet, Social Media Content Specialist Brady Sprague, Senior Leader Digital Solutions

Sterling Management, LLC

Michael Carlson, Assistant General Counsel Samuel Jelleberg, Director of Acquisitions & Investments Kira Schumaker, Financial Accountant

Town & Country Credit Union

Amber Andersen, Assistant Branch Manager Danielle Sanger, Assistant Branch Manager

Awards and Recognition O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Foss

Sean Foss, Super Lawyers, Top-Rated Litigation Attorney in Fargo Tatum O’Brien, Super Lawyers, Top-Rated Personal Injury Attorney in Fargo Morgan Reinke, Super Lawyers, Rising Star Dean Rindy, Super Lawyers, Top-Rated Real Estate Attorney in Fargo

West Fargo Public Schools

Dr. Denise Jonas, North Dakota Career & Technical Education Association, Administrator of the Year Lila Subba, North Dakota School Nutrition Association Employee of the Year Award Wanda Miller, North Dakota School Nutrition Association Manager of the Year Award

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

FMWFCHAMBER.COM 27

MEMBER PROFILE

Not-for-Profit of the Year For some senior citizens, getting to and from appointments, keeping up with friends, and eating healthy meals, can be a challenge. That’s where Valley Senior Services steps in. Since 1971, this organization has helped thousands of seniors each year in a variety of ways. Most notably, they manage our local Meals on Wheels program, delivering hot meals to over 1,200 people a day. In 2019, they served more than 250,000 meals across six North Dakota counties. But Valley Senior Services is more than just Meals on Wheels. Their mission is to promote independence and better health for seniors 60 years and older by reducing malnutrition and isolation. They also help clients find a sense of community by fostering friendships at senior centers, providing transportation services and connecting them with supportive resources. They do this through the strength and generosity of volunteers and businesses. Respect, sincerity, solution engineers, kindness and compassion, guide their staff, volunteers and supporters. As with many non-profits, flexibility and partnerships help them continue to meet demand. Valley Senior Services takes part in the Coalition of Service

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OCTOBER 2020

Providers for the Elderly in Cass and Clay Counties. They collaborated with low-income housing facilities to provide community dining options for seniors and individuals with disabilities. They partnered with the YMCA to create a Pen Pal program, as well as additional community dining options at the Fercho branch. And, the cities of Fargo and West Fargo helped secure annual donations that provide vehicles to accommodate the growing number of seniors using the Metro Senior Ride program. But that’s not at all. Valley Senior Services assisted nearly 400 clients enroll in Medicare Part D, saving them money by switching their prescription plans. And in 2019, their Secret Santa for Seniors program provided Christmas gifts to 150 low-income seniors. Illustrating their incredible community impact, one letter of recommendation said this: “I could inundate you with a mountain of statistics that show how VSS has assisted many people in our region. But, when you peel back the data and delve into personal stories, you will quickly become enveloped in one heartwarming story after another. Each demonstrating how VSS has truly made a difference. One individual at a time, for our entire community.”

Metro Senior Ride Service

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PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

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

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

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The Bridge: October 2020

Articles inside

K–12 Education Overview