By Larry Sparks
Community, connection and growth took center stage at the Eastern Plains Chamber of Commerce’s monthly networking meeting held April 2. The event brought together local professionals for a morning filled with inspiration, practical tools and exciting updates that highlight the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to fostering leadership and civic engagement.
The morning kicked off on a high note with a warm welcome and a delicious breakfast, generously sponsored by Ent Credit Union. Luke Willis, business banker with Ent, spotlighted the organization’s impactful work within the community. The remarks from him and his team served as a reminder of the vital role banks, like Ent, play in supporting regional growth and well-being.
The energy continued to build with the main presentation from Ruth Prentice and Rosie Suerdieck of Falcon Toastmasters Club. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped more than eight million people worldwide become confident speakers and effective leaders. Prentice and Suerdieck brought that legacy to life with a powerful demonstration of communication techniques, including the often-overlooked art of giving meaningful, constructive feedback. The most practical exercise was practice on a 30-second elevator speech that is clear and compelling.
Attendees walked away with practical tools to strengthen their professional communication skills — perfectly timed as the business community gears up for expansion and innovation in 2025.
“This kind of session is invaluable,” said one attendee. “It’s not just about speaking more clearly — it’s about connecting more deeply, leading more effectively and growing with purpose.”
But the Chamber’s commitment to growth does not stop with professionals. On March 29, the Eastern Plains Chamber proudly hosted its Second Annual Civics Bee. This local competition of the National Civics Bee was at the Broadmoor Hotel. Sponsors of the event included the Daniels Fund, The Dakota Fund, Mountain View Electric Association, StratusIQ Fiber Internet, Black Forest Party Rentals, Realtor Nicollette Gordon and Watts Upfitting. The competition included 20 essay finalists from the sixth, seventh and eighth grades. Students answered civic topics in a quiz-show format. The five finalists presented an oral defense of their essay, which was about their idea for making a difference in the community. Finalists will compete for cash prizes and well-earned recognition.
From inspiring the next generation of leaders to sharpening the skills of today’s professionals, the Chamber of Commerce continues to create space for progress, purpose and powerful connections.
The chamber meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Grace Community Church in Falcon. For more information, visit https://www.easternplainschamber.com/.
