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Issue No. 42 β’ Wednesday, October 16, 2024 β’ www.mbex.org | |
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Five Quick Things To Know / Do This Week:
1.) Registration now open! Join MBEX for a festive night at this year's Holiday Party North on Thursday, December 5 in Duluth.
2.) The newly issued Lead and Copper Rule will require drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years, according to a news release from the EPA.
3.) Six members of the McGough Construction family --- Charles, Leo, Larry, Greg, Tom and Peter McGough --- are among the newest members of the Minnesota Real Estate Hall of Fame.
4.) Equipment Today recognizes the 2024 Contractors' Top 50 New Products, which represent an array of innovative solutions to improve productivity, efficiency, safety and comfort. Winners include Bobcat's E40 Excavator, First Green's Electric Skid Steer Loader, and Studson Inc's SHK-1 Full-Brim Safety Helmet.
5.) Every masterpiece starts with a solid foundation, mate. In celebration of its official opening 51 years ago (on October 20), here's the iconic Sydney Opera House under construction Down Under.
"Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired'" - Jules Renard
IN BRIEF:
β’ Recap: Building connections and prioritizing wellness at the MBEX Fall Social
β’ Workplace Law: Essential items to consider in October
β’ MBEX Blueprint: Read the newest issue online
β’ Wrap Up: Our final innovations highlight - AEC Firm Operations (Part 2)
β’ Planning Activity Softens, Specialty Trade Contractors Propel September Jobs, and Coffee Concrete Makes Its Infrastructure Debut: Five construction-related headlines for your next coffee break
β’ Project of the Week: Big data center project nears construction in Chaska
β’ NPP Member Benefit: The Circle K Pro card packs a big rig fuel-savings punch
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EVENT RECAP: MBEX Fall Social | |
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What a great night!
The 2024 MBEX Fall Social was a fantastic success, bringing together professionals from across the construction industry for an evening of networking, self-care, and celebration. Held at the Hilton Minneapolis / Bloomington, last week's event was buzzing with energy as members connected, shared stories, and took a well-deserved break from their busy schedules.
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A Big Thanks to Our Self-Care Health Fair Vendors
One of the highlights of the evening was the 2nd Annual Self-Care Health Fair, presented by MBEX POWER, where attendees got to learn about ways to improve their mental and physical well-beings. We had a range of health stations offering valuable tips and treatments, from stretch therapy to mental health awareness to jobsite safety.
Special thanks to our health station vendors:
ο»ΏOur members walked away with new ways to stay at the top of their game β both on and off the job site.
Celebrating the Future of Construction
We were also thrilled to introduce a few of our 2024-2025 scholarship awardees, the future leaders of our industry. Thank you Jonas, Ben, Nick, and Paige for taking time out of your busy schedules to join us and meet our members.
Their dedication and hard work are inspiring, and we canβt wait to see what they achieve!
Live It List
A special shout-out to Nicole Middendorf, our guest speaker, whose talk on the Live It List inspired attendees to focus on living their lives with purpose and balance, both personally and professionally.
Heartfelt Thanks to Our Event Sponsors
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Weβre grateful for your commitment to MBEX and the construction industry.ο»Ώ
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DOOR PRIZE SPONSORS
Alliance Bank, Bassford Remele, Dem-Con Companies, Owen Masonry & RJM Construction
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Looking Ahead
The Fall Social was a fantastic reminder that the strength of our industry lies in its people. Weβre proud to provide events that help our members build relationships, invest in their well-being, and celebrate their achievements.
Thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and supported the event. We look forward to seeing you at future MBEX gatherings!
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Workplace Law: Essential Items For Your October To-Do List | |
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It's hard to keep up with all the recent changes to labor and employment law, especially since the law always seems to evolve at a rapid pace.
To help your businesses' stay on top of the latest changes and have an action plan for compliance, here is a quick review of some critical developments tracked in September and a checklist of the essential items you should consider addressing in October (and beyond).
Get Ready for Election Day π³οΈ
Employers have their hands full this election season. Do your employees get time off to vote? What are your rights and responsibilities as an employer during election season? Visit this Election Season Resource Center to review.
Create Your Year-End Checklist π
As the final quarter of 2024 begins, many employers are turning to the year-end review process. While you're planning for raises, bonuses, and other employee incentives this comp season, you'll need to account for new laws at the federal, state, and local level that impact wages for 2025. You'll want to review new minimum wage rates, paid sick leave requirements, and increases to the exempt salary threshold, just to name a few.
Prepare for Cold, Flu and COVID Season π·
For many businesses, the pandemic seems like a distant memory, but COVID-19 is not entirely behind us. Indeed, as the cold and flu season approaches, the CDC predicts that COVID-19 cases will increase across the country. Here's a brief guide with five tips to effectively address respiratory illness in the workplace in today's changing landscape.
Follow Key SCOTUS Cases Impacting the Workplace βοΈ
The Supreme Court began a new term on October 7th, and there are several cases that will likely have a big impact on the work place. The Justices will grapple with wage and hour issues, coverage under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), liability for a failed cannabis test, and more. It's expected more employment and labor cases will be added to the docket, but for now, keep an eye on these issues.
Track Pay Transparency Trends π΅
A patchwork of new state laws is making multi-state compliance complicated, particularly since the details of pay transparency laws vary. Click here to track the latest pay equity developments.
Review Your Accommodation Policies for Pregnant Workers πΌ
Do you know what's required under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)? You should consider fine-tuning your compliance efforts after the EEOC filed its first-ever lawsuit under the act on September 10th. Here's what employers need to know about this groundbreaking lawsuit and eight steps you can take now to ensure compliance.
Keep Informed on New A.I. Developments π»
Federal workplace officials just unveiled a new website on September 24th guiding employers on best practices to avoid artificial intelligence discrimination during the hiring process, including a roadmap of 10 actions you should consider taking if you want to stay compliant.
Don't Forget About Ongoing Non-Compete Compliance Obligations π«
You probably know the federal non-compete ban is on ice for now --- but that doesn't mean employers are free to use non-competes indiscriminately. What remains in the wake of the FTC's ban is a highly complex, constantly shifting patchwork of state laws that regulate the administration and substance of non-compete agreements. Here's your reminder to-do list, including the top 10 state law issues you'll still need to tackle, even though the FTC's non-compete ban did not go into effect September 4th.
Note that the information provided in this MBEX article is intended for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered as legal advice. We strongly recommend consulting with your business's attorney or legal advisor before taking any actions based on its content.
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The New MBEX Blueprint is Here - Explore What's Inside
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The latest issue of MBEX Blueprint is hereβhave you taken a peek yet?
Inside, youβll discover:
β’ Meet Melanie, MBEXβs Event and Membership Coordinator (Page 10)
β’ Introducing MBEXβs 2025 Cornerstone Partners Sponsorship Program (Page 21)
β’ How Contractors are Using A.I. Right Now (Page 25)
β’ Step by Step Updating Your Own Company Profile (Page 29)
β’ And much more!
Our magazine is shared with all current MBEX members, as well as leading general contractors, top architectural and engineering firms, and key city, county, and school district officials across Minnesota.
A Heads-Up:
If youβre contacted by Innovative Publishing on behalf of MBEX, itβs legit! Theyβre our trusted partner, helping share advertising opportunities in both the printed and digital editions of the MBEX Blueprint.
We hope you'll consider placing an ad in an upcoming issue. Either let us know you're interested and we'll pass your information along to Innovative for follow up, or contact Kelly directly at kelly@innovativepublishing.com.
Now, click the image above and dive in!
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Part 2: Innovations in AEC Firm Operations | |
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From AI ChatBots to low-carbon cement to top-down residential building methods, there is no shortage of AEC innovations facing the industry.
This week, we wrap up the innovations highlighted in the Building Design + Construction's 2024 Great Solutions Report.
This week: AEC Firm Operations (Part 2)
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Shawmut Design and Construction shows its dedication to supporting DEI initiatives with its Diverse Partnerships Program. The four-session, eight-course accelerator program is designed to provide greater opportunities for vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers that represent diverse communities. | | |
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To execute the restoration of a 288,600-square-foot building, the Order of Saint Francis HealthCare system and engineering firm Dewberry created (at the time) the first-of-its-kind construction delivery process that included OSF forming its own in-house construction company called PointCore. | | |
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Ambient computing --- a concept that seamlessly integrates the digital into the physical world --- offers the potential to increase workplace collaboration, efficiency, and flexibility among teams. Little Diversified Architectural Consulting teamed up with Metaform to explore the potential of ambient computing for hybrid work environments. | | |
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During the construction of the largest healthcare construction project in the U.S., Gilbane Building Company introduced Kadeya, the world's first fully closed-loop beverage system, to its project team. Operating like a vending machine, the system dispenses high-quality water and other water-based beverages in custom stainless-steel bottles. | |
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In January 2024, the Building Design + Construction editorial team invited the nation's largest architecture, engineering, and construction firms to submit their single-biggest innovation from the past 24 months. More than 80 firms responded with well more than 100 submissions. The editors selected the 41 Great Solutions.
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A valuable benefit of an MBEX membership is invitations to our social and educational events; by being an employee of a member company, you too can take advantage and attend any and all MBEX-sponsored events.
** indicates a newly added event
October 14-18 - Construction Inclusion Week
Construction Inclusion Week (CIW) amplifies awareness while celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the industry to spearhead change. Become involved and participate by planning your company's and firm's own internal activities. Learn More
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October 17 - MBEX Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders lists, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Time is saved at the end of the demonstration for questions and answers. Register Now
November 21 - MBEX Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders lists, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Time is saved at the end of the demonstration for questions and answers. Not yet open for registration
November 28 & 29 - MBEX Closed - Thanksgiving
MBEX will be closed on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. We'll return to regular business hours on Monday, December 2.
December 3 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
Attendees will learn interface navigation including menu dropdowns, toolbars, various tool panels, keyboard shortcuts and a few recommended settings. While learning various markup and measurement tools, several tips and tricks will be shared to increase accuracy and speed. Register Now
December 4 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
Attendees will go through the standard measurement tools and settings, then move into various customization options and discuss the results in the Markups List. Register Now
December 5 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
After finishing the Bluebeam Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic) course, attendees will move into creating custom columns, embedding formulas, and information organization. Register Now
** December 5 - Holiday Party North
As winter blankets the Northland in its snowy splendor, come gather with fellow construction industry professionals for an evening of celebration and camaraderie as we close out another business year and look ahead to 2025. Register Now
** December 25 & 26 - MBEX Closed - Christmas
MBEX will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25 for the Christmas holiday. Our office location will be closed on Thursday, December 26 and Friday, December 27 as staff will be working from home.
** December 31 & January 1 - MBEX Closed - New Years
MBEX will be closed on Tuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1 to celebrate the end of 2024 and welcome the start of 2025. MBEX will return to regular business hours on Thursday, January 2.
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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ECONOMIC REPORTS
π§ Planning Activity Softens After Months of Growth
Nonresidential construction planning cooled in September after months of strong growth, according to Dodge Construction Network. Commercial planning, which includes office, industrial and hotel projects, declined 7.8% while institutional planning, which spans education, life sciences and healthcare projects, increased 5.2%, according to the report. (Construction Dive)
LABOR + WORKFORCE
π Specialty Trade Contractors Propel Industry to September Jobs Gain of 25K
In its latest monthly employment report, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that construction jobs continued their upward trend. The largest contribution to construction's overall jobs gain came from specialty trade contractors, which added an estimated 22,800 positions overall. Nonresidential specialty trade contractors had the strongest results. (Engineering News-Record)
CONCRETE
β Coffee Concrete Makes Its Debut in a Major Infrastructure Project
An innovation developed at RMIT University has been used for the first time in a major infrastructure project, being laid into a footpath along a busy road in Pakenham as part of Victoria's Big Build. Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) and project contractor BildGroup have used concrete mixed with biochar made from spent coffee grounds, as a replacement of a portion of the river sand that is normally used. (RMIT University - RMIT Australia)
MACHINE AUTOMATION
π¦Ί Strabag Trials Fully Autonomous Asphalt Paving
The system uses a special module for autonomous control of the machinery. It is connected directly to the digital CAN bus interface of the asphalt paver and feeds the machine target data for the paving section. The machine also features object recognition sensors and satellite navigation (GNSS) to keep it on the right course. The machine also has a newly developed paver attachment that integrates a sensor-equipped fiber optic cable directly into the surface course during paving. (Construction Briefing)
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
π 4 Ways A.I. Impacts Building Design Beyond Dramatic Imagery
While A.I.-generated futuristic visuals make for stunning eye candy and can help communicate design intent, the true potential of artificial intelligence in architecture extends far deeper. AI-powered tools and workflows fundamentally transform how we design and deliver buildings, focused on cost and schedule efficiencies, risk mitigation and improved sustainability performance. (Building Design + Construction)
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Big Data Center Project Nears Construction in Chaska | |
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Read More on Finance & Commerce
CloudHQ will go before the Chaska Planning Commission with plans to build the 1.4-million-square-foot facility on a 70-acre site north of Engler Boulevard and west of Clover Ridge Drive.
The commission will consider CloudHQ's requests for preliminary site and building plan, preliminary plat, zoning ordinance amendment and conditional use permit approvals.
The project has been in the works since at least 2022, when CloudHQ received concept plan approval from the city, an initial step toward construction. A year ago, the city granted a conditional use permit to allow construction of a 30-foot berm along the north and east edges of the development site, a project requirement.
According to a staff report:
- The building would have two stories with 715,000-square-feet of space on each floor.
- Additional plans include a penthouse and "architectural screen wall" on top of the second story to house generators and mechanical equipment.
- Proposed building materials include "insulated precast concrete panels with aluminum-embedded icicle accents, glass and architectural paneled steel louver screen wall systems."
- Building plans also reveal "vine walls to help provide a 'softer' edge to the concrete panels."
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PICTURED ABOVE: Rendering of CloudHQ's proposed 1.4-million-square-foot data center in Chaska (via CloudHQ). | |
Building Better Construction Contracts: Crafting Effective Arbitration Clauses | Presented by Construction Executive | |
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DATE: Wednesday, October 30
TIME: 2:00pm CT
LOCATION: Virtual Event
COST: Free
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This webinar is perfect for construction pros looking to get a better handle on the ins and outs of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in construction contracts. It'll help you navigate the complexities of ADR, so you can manage disputes without letting time and costs spiral out of control.
In this session, you'll learn:
β’ How to tailor ADR processes to fit construction projects and keep things running smoothly.
β’ Tips on using standard forms (like AIA and ConsensusDocs) or customizing ADR clauses to suit your project's specific needs.
β’ Strategies for keeping costs down and staying on schedule by setting clear time and cost rules.
β’ Key factors in choosing where and when ADR happens, how many people need to be involved, and what qualifications they should have.
β’ The pros and cons of certain contract clauses, like leaving key decisions to arbitrators or using carve-out clauses that could impact the ADR process.
β’ Advanced topics, like dealing with multiple parties in a dispute and how to handle awards or even private appellate review for extra oversight.
β’ How technology, including AI tools, can speed up dispute management and improve decision-making during ADR.
It's a great opportunity to level up your skills and get better prepared for handling disputes in your construction projects.
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The Construction Economy Outlook: 2025 Starts Now
Presented by ConstructConnect
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DATE: Thursday, November 14
TIME: 1:00pm-2:30pm CT
LOCATION: Virtual Event
COST: Free
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Featuring economic leaders from ConstructConnect, the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), and the American Institute of Architects (AIA), get the knowledge and information you need to:
- Better understand and take action around the 2025 economic forecast;
- Understand economists' thoughts on recession;
- Reduce uncertainty by filling your bid pipeline now;
- Interpret current inflation trends; and
- Get the down low on interest rates.
Speakers include:
- Ken Simonson - Chief Economist, AGC of America
- Kermit Baker - Chief Economist, AIA
- Morgan Stinson - EVP / Business Operations, ConstructConnect
- Michael Guckes - Chief Economist, ConstructConnect
- Paul Hart - Vice President / Product Marketing, ConstructConnect
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Benefit of the Week: Circle K Pro | |
Whether your fleet drives cars, vans, limos, semis, or all of the above --- the Circle K Pro card packs a big rig punch. | |
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MBEX Members can take advantage of 30-cents off every gallon for the first 90 days, then 7-cents off every gallon after that.
If your fleet of vehicles fuels up at Circle K's network of 6,000+ company owned and operated locations, the Circle K Pro Fleet Card will save you thousands of dollars on fuel costs and simplify your operations with easy online account management.
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No Monthly Card Fees
Goodbye monthly card fees. The more you fuel, the more you save. There are never monthly or annual fees with the Circle K Pro Fleet card.
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ο»ΏDedicated Support
Circle K makes business fueling easy for drivers along their route. Your team can grab a bite to eat and refresh while they fuel up in between stops at Circle K store locations across the country.
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Easy Stops
Circle K's team of U.S.-based fueling experts understand the challenges that come with fleet operations. They partner with businesses to reduce costs and maximize savings.
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Get a customized quote today to claim exclusive enrollment offers and everyday savings.
Contact Brian Korb, Inside Sales and Keys Accounts Rep, to take advantage of your members-only savings: (984) 389-1759 or brian.korb@circlek.com.
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PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | |
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β’ Total Projects Received at MBEX from 10/7/2024 - 10/11/2024: 81
β’ Total Projects Leads Reported on at MBEX from 10/7/2024 - 10/11/2024: 18
β’ Total Active Projects Received/Reported on at MBEX as of 10/15/2024: 306
β’ Total Projects in the Online Plan Room Year-To-Date as of 10/15/2024: 3,703
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 10/9/2024-10/15/2024.
For information about the Bulletin's content, technical issues, or to place an ad (such as a Minority
ο»ΏNotice, Job Posting, or Event Notice), contact Ashlee, Membership + Communications Manager.
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UPCOMING MBEX EVENTSο»Ώο»Ώ
β’ October 14-18 - Construction Inclusion Week 2024
β’ October 17 - Online Plan Room Demo
β’ November 21 - Online Plan Room Demo
β’ November 28 & 29 - MBEX Closed for Thanksgiving
β’ December 3 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
β’ December 4 - Bluebeam 2: Materials Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
β’ December 5 - Bluebeam 3: Materials Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
β’ December 5 - Holiday Party North
β’ December 19 - Online Plan Room Demo
β’ December 24 & 25 - MBEX Closed for Christmas
β’ December 31 & January 1 - MBEX Closed for New Years
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Connect with the Builders Exchange: | |
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Information within the MBEX Weekly Bulletin are obtained from sources deemed reliable. The Minnesota Builders Exchange (MBEX) does not assume responsibility for its completeness or accuracy. You are urged to check your own sources in addition to the information contained in this publication. This issue contains plans and other bidding information received prior to and including the date noted above. The project data within this newsletter is intended for member company's and their employees use only.
2024 BOARD OFFICERS: President - Mike Carlson, Max Gray Construction; Vice President - Heidi Sedlacek, KLJ Engineering; Treasurer - Brian Kalla, St. Cloud Acoustics; Past President - Greg Grazzini, Grazzini Brothers | 2024 DIRECTORS: Allie Brady, Veit; Kevin Bohrer, Donlar Construction; David Brandt, Schadegg Mechanical; Jason DuVal, Tenet; Chuck Geisler, Iron Eagle Industrial Services; Chris Niemand, Frattalone Companies; Sean Ochis, Northern Industrial Insulation; Jason Rentmeester, Kraus-Anderson Construction; and Nate Sapik, Benson Electric Company | STAFF: David Siegel - Executive Director; Julie Miller - Executive Assistant/Project Coordinator/Accounting; Ashlee Hartwig - Membership & Communications Manager; Melanie Hendrickson - Events & Membership Coordinator; Don O'Connor - Duluth Director; Jeff Boelter - Project Acquisition & IT; Shauna Baska, Peggy Esboldt, Madison Gentil, Michelle Siegel & Ka Yang - Project Reporters
You are receiving this email because you are employed by a current member company in good standing or have indicated you wanted to receive MBEX's Weekly Bulletin. Unsubscribe from the Weekly Bulletin
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