AB AMES BUSINESS
MONTHLY M A R C H 2017
March Chamber Update
WORLDLY GOODS SET FOR 30TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS SEE PAGE 20
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2 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | MARCH 2017
AMES BUSINESS
MONTHLY MARCH 2017 Vol. 10, No. 3 AMES TRIBUNE Ames Business Monthly is a publication of the Ames Tribune, 317 Fifth St., Ames, IA, 50010; (515) 232-2160.
2 Brown receives Doane Award from ASFMRA 2 Ginapp named catering manager at Iowa State Center 3 Erbert and Gerbert’s sandwich shop to open Ames location 4 Funeral home now called ‘Schroeder-Reimers’ 5 McFarland to open location at ISU Research Park 6 Conservation Board unveils plans for Research Park nature area 7 March Chamber Update 19 Story County Community Foundation reaches $10 million in funds
19 White appointed to MGMC Board 20 Worldly Goods set for 30th anniversary events 20 REG CEO named among top people in bioeconomy 21 Richard Brimeyer 21 Supervisors take first step toward solar farms in Story County 22 MICA purchases refrigerator, now taking perishable donations 22 Nathan Brammer 23 Local photographer joins Team USA for World Photographic Cup
FARMING
CATERING
Brown receives Doane Award from ASFMRA Ginapp
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oyd Brown, former president of Hertz Farm Management in Nevada, received the D. Howard Doane Award from the American Society of Farm Mangers and Rural Appraisers during the 2016 ASFMRA annual meeting in Indian Wells, Calif., Nov. 7-11, 2016. ASFMRA is the largest professional society for rural property experts in the United States. The D. Howard Doane Award is given annually to a member or nonmember who has demonstrated outstanding qualities and contributions in the field of agriculture with emphasis on farm management and rural appraisal.
Brown
Pringnitz
Wilkinson
Two other employees of Hertz Farm Management also received awards from the ASFMRA. Richard D. Pringnitz, farm manager with Hertz Farm Management in Nevada, received the Farm Manager of the Year Award, which is sponsored by Syngenta, AgProfessional
Magazine and ASFMRA. This award is held in high esteem by ASFMRA and recognizes an accredited farm management designated member who has made a lasting impact on the farm management profession. Eric Wilkinson, farm manager and office manager of Hertz Farm
Management in Kankakee, Ill., received the 2016 Early Career Award, which recognizes “early career” members who are making outstanding contributions to their local chapter, the ASFMRA, and their local communities during their first 10 years of ASFMRA membership.
named catering manager at Iowa State Center
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he Iowa State Center, managed by VenuWorks announces the promotion of Katie Ginapp to Catering/Banquet Manager. Ginapp received Bachelor and Master’s degrees from Iowa State University in hospitality management. In addition to continuing all her current catering responsibilities, she also will coordinate weddings and wedding
Ginapp
receptions at the Iowa State Center. “Katie has been an integral part of our team since she joined VenuWorks at the Iowa State Center,” said Tammy Koolbeck, executive director. “Her experience and knowledge make her a great asset for our team.”
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 3
RESTAURANT
Erbert and Gerbert’s sandwich shop to open Ames location By Dan Mika, Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
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he owner of Brick City Grill is preparing to bring the first Erbert and Gerbert’s sandwich shop to the central Iowa area later this spring. Erbert and Gerbert’s will offer sub-style sandwiches and soup to customers both in-store and for delivery. The Wisconsinbased sandwich franchise has three locations in Iowa City and Cedar Falls, but the upcoming Ames location will be the first in the city or in the Des Moines metropolitan area. Brick City Grill owner Jason Mikkelson said the shop, located about a block from the west Ames Hy-Vee at 3505 Lincoln Way, will price sandwiches around $5 to $7 and
around $10 for a soup-sandwich combination. He said drivers be able to deliver to all of west Ames and as far east as University Avenue, but isn’t completely sure how far north and south deliveries will be able to go. Mikkelson said he decided to work with Erberts and Gerbert’s because of the company’s variety of sandwich dressings and soups, and its use of gluten-free bread on request. He also believes the company will support his venture from a logistics standpoint, useful for any business owner preparing to start a second venture. “I have to wear every single hat,” he said. “From product development, to market, to research, to accounting, I do all of it. With the franchise, you
have a support team behind you.” Mikkelson has begun divesting some of the daily tasks at Brick City Grill to employees as he prepares to leave town for three weeks for training. Erbert and Gerbert’s is moving into a competitive market in the Ames area, as Jimmy John’s owns five locations around the city while Panera has begun delivery service in recent weeks. Mikkelson said the shop can compete with established soup-and-sandwich places with its own products. He also said shop employees will hand out sandwich samples at events to drum up hype for the grand opening. With those together, Mikkelson is confident the new venture can succeed in Ames.
The location of the upcoming Erbert and Gerbert’s in west Ames.
PHOTO
BY DAN MIKA/AMES TRIBUNE
“Some of the haters, if you will, are going to say it’s just a Jimmy John’s ripoff,” he said. “It’s similar, but Erbert and Gerbert’s have been around … just
as long as they have… and I also fire back to just try it.” Mikkelson said he hopes to open the store sometime in midto-late April.
4 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | MARCH 2017
FUNERAL HOME
Funeral home now called ‘Schroeder-Reimers’ By Jason W. Brooks
Boone News-Republican
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esidents of Boone may have noticed a change at Schroeder Memorial Chapel earlier this year. It was on the funeral home’s sign, and represents a change in ownership that occurred last August. Joe Reimers, owner of Adams Funeral Home in Ames, bought Schroeder, and on Jan. 1, the name of the Boone business officially changed to Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel. For Reimers, keeping the Schroeder name as part of the business is a nod to the 85 years of family tradition that Schroeders built. Reimers said he wants to maintain the same high level of service the Schroeders provided to the families they served. “I enjoy helping people,” Reimers said. “One thing Larry (Schroeder) and I have in common is that we like to show people the type of kindness, care and attention to detail we’d want our own families to receive.” Harry W. Schroeder began the Boone business in the building that was located on the east side of Story Street between Sixth and Seventh streets in 1932. It relocated to the house located on the northwest corner of Fifth and Story Streets in 1939. Harry’s sons, James Schroeder and Richard “Sonny” Schroeder, took over the family business.
Larry began working with his father, Sonny, and his uncle, after he graduated from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1975, opening Schroeder Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall in 1986. Larry Schroeder and his wife, Darcy Pervier Schroeder, have one child, who is not going into the funeral home business, so it became time to look at bringing in someone outside the family succession line. Enter Reimers, a 2005 Humboldt High School graduate and a 2010 graduate of the Des Moines Area Community College of Mortuary Science. Reimers began working at Adams Funeral Home in 2007 and became a licensed funeral director in 2011. Reimers is married and has a daughter and a son and is a member of the Ames Noon Rotary Club and the Main Street Cultural District in Ames. Larry Schroeder, 63, said he still enjoys helping provide quality funeral home service to the community, but he is no longer the primary “‘round-theclock” person to field latenight calls and some of the other more demanding aspects of the business. “It’s tolling to be helping families handle such important matters, sometimes several in a day, and in weeks where we have a service almost every night,” Reimers said. “It’s important to be transparent with people and keep the communication
Larry Schroeder, left and Joe Reimers pose during the fall outside what is now Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall streets in Boone. Reimers purchased the 85-year-old company from Schroeder in August and the name change took effect Jan. 1. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
lines wide open.” Reimers said Schroeder’s expertise, wisdom and knowledge of the community are highly valuable in keeping the business’ legacy going. Both Reimers and Schroeder speak highly of Randy Craven, who will continue in the funeral home’s “assistant chief” role. Craven has worked for the Schroeders
“I enjoy helping people. One thing Larry (Schroeder) and I have in common is that we like to show people the type of kindness, care and attention to detail we’d want our own families to receive.” Joe Reimers, owner of Adams Funeral Home in Ames
for more than 20 years. Reimers said he doesn’t want the spotlight focused on him or the sale of the business. That’s reserved
for the people whose memories are being honored by families. “We’re not here to say no to anyone,” Reimers
said. “We’re here to accommodate as many requests as we can. There is a great reputation here. We hope to maintain it.”
M A R C H 2 017 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY | 5
MEDICAL
McFarland to open location at ISU Research Park By Dan Mika
Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
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cFarland Clinic is preparing to begin construction on their fifth Ames location within the Iowa State Research Park by this summer. The 33,000 square-foot facility will hire 13 medical professionals to practice family medicine, physical therapy and optometry services on-site, McFarland Clinic CEO Andrew Perry said. The upcoming location will also have McFarland’s first sports medicine clinic in Ames. McFarland also plans to lease out 9,300 square feet
of its building to Huxleybased Lily Pad Learning Center. Sara Hillebrand, owner of Lily Pad Learning Center, said the upcoming site will have spots for 124 children ranging from infants to preschoolers. She said interested parents can join the waitlist on the daycare center’s website. Perry said McFarland and the Research Park began discussions on bringing a clinic to the south Ames area last year as part of the Park’s multiyear expansion project. He said both McFarland and Research Park officials believe it is poised for rapid job and population growth. “We see this as an
opportunity to expand our footprint, but also to expand our access so patients can be seen conveniently,” he said. The clinic’s announcement comes during construction of a new Ames Racquet and Fitness location in the park and a week after Story County Conservation revealed initial designs for a 30-acre multi-use park in the area. Perry said building a clinic near an upcoming gym and park makes sense from a health perspective. “There’s a synergy with health and wellness going on there,” he said. Perry expects the clinic to open in the summer of 2018.
Architectural renderings of the proposed McFarland Clinic in the ISU Research Park. Construction is expected to begin this summer. IMAGE PROVIDED BY MCFARLAND CLINIC
6 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | MARCH 2017
NATURE
Conservation Board unveils plans for Research Park nature area By Dan Mika
Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
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he Story County Conservation Board recently revealed its plans to create a multiuse nature park within an unused area in the Iowa State University Research Park over the next several years. The Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor, which would be on the roughly 30 acres between Workiva’s location and the Economic Core Development Facility inside the ISU Research Park, is projected to cost around $4 million over three years, County Conservation director Mike Cox said. The proposed park would be named after conservation board member and former Ames Mayor Ted Tedesco, who backed the project from its inception. He said the park would emphasize the “four C’s:” collaboration between ISU, local conservationists and other
groups, cooperation, conservation and connectivity to the High Trestle Bridge Trail. Landscape architect Andrew Dawson said the park will have several paved trails for walkers and bikers mixed with more narrow trails covered with mulch and natural material. Those smaller paths would lead guests closer to the creek, the three ponds and two wetland areas within the planned park. Another feature of the park plan is the addition of several meeting places, piers and boardwalks to encourage people to gather for field trips, or for Research Park occupants to hold business meetings outside near the water. The proposal also connects its bike trails to already-existing trail systems and has access points from University Boulevard, South Riverside Drive and South Loop Road, by car and bike. Luke Monat, a civil engineer with architecture firm Shive Hattery,
Rendering of the Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor.
said restoring the creek to what it was like decades ago is the first goal of the project because it would reconnect the creek to the floodplains around it. He said much of the creek has bank drops from 5 to 9 feet deep, and when heavy rain comes into the area, the rushing water erodes the banks and brings sedimentary pollutants into the water supply. He said raising the creekbed or lowering the floodplains would also improve local water quality, as the running water and reintroduction of local wetland plants
would dislodge less sediment from the banks and flow more easily into the floodplain. “When we look at our current conditions, we’re in a state of disrepair,” he said. Jean Eells, owner of Webster City-based education consultant E Resources Group, said the plans feature “nodes” where students from first grade to the college level can observe the wetlands and other ecological features up close. She said being able to give input in the early stages of the project
“As an educator, I understand what it takes to have groups of all ages, all sizes, all kinds of activity outside. My ears were on what could be the educational opportunities.” Jean Eells, owner of E Resources Group
allowed her to devise ways to keep students engaged during trips instead of wandering aimlessly from location to location within the park area. “As an educator, I understand what it takes to have groups of all ages, all sizes, all kinds of activity outside,” she said.
“My ears were on what could be the educational opportunities.” He said the board hopes to begin restoring the creek in either the summer or fall of this year. The project is tentatively set to be completed sometime in the second half of 2019.
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 7
Chamber Update MARCH 2017
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
2017 Ames Day at the Capitol - March 7th
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he 2017 Ames Day at the Capitol is but days away, and will be held from 11:30am-1:00pm on Tuesday, March 7th at Iowa’s beautiful State Capitol. Along with the famous lunch from Hickory Park, exhibitors will have an excellent opporWXQLW\ WR HQJDJH /HJLVODWRUV RI¿FLDOV DQG lobbyists from throughout the state. Following the Community Showcase in the Capitol Rotunda from 11:30am-1:00pm, Ames and Story County business, community, and institutional leaders will meet with Legislative Leadership from both Parties and both Chambers to discuss policy priorities of the Ames Chamber of Commerce and our community partners and member organizations. At the time of drafting of this article, Ames Day at the Capitol Day Sponsors include: Barilla, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, City of Ames, Des Moines Area Community College, Renewable Energy Group, and Workiva. Booth sponsors include: Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau, Ames Laboratory, Iowa State University, Progress Industries, and Story County. Those interested in learning more about the event can contact Drew Kamp at drew@ ameschamber.com or 515-817-6311 for additional information. The Ames Chamber of Commerce thanks Converse Conditioned Air, Des Moines Area Community College, First National Bank, Renewable Energy Group, and Workiva for their support as 2017 Taking Leadership Legislative Sponsors. The Chamber also thanks Harold Pike Construction; Roseland, Mackey, Harris Architects, P.C.; and VenuWorks for their generosity as 2017 Legislative Lunch Sponsors. Without the continued support of our sponsors, the Ames Chamber of Commerce would not be able to provide great events such as this.
The mission of the Ames Chamber of Commerce is to provide our members services that strengthen the economic vitality in Ames and enhance the quality of life in our community.
8 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | MARCH 2017
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
ANNUAL EVENT
2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CASEY JOHNSON, Chair of Board of Directors Ames Ford Lincoln LUKE JENSEN, Vice Chair Real Estate Service Group, Inc. ANDREW PERRY, 2nd Vice Chair McFarland Clinic, PC SCOTT BLUM, Divisional Chair, Community Development Accord Architecture / Henkel STACY DREYER, Divisional Chair, Government Affairs & Treasurer First National Bank NATE EASTER, Divisional Chair, Membership Iowa State University Research Park DAVE TUCKER, Immediate Past Chair Workiva DAN CULHANE, President / CEO Ames Chamber & Economic Development Commission BOARD MEMBERS Vanessa Baker-Latimer, City of Ames Bret Bartholomew, Bartholomew Chiropractic Lindsey Beecher, Gilbert Community School District Scott Blum, Accord Architecture/Henkel Construction Nathan Buss - YPA Past President, VisionBank Matt Converse, Converse Conditioned Air Lawrence Cunningham, Iowa State Daily Media Group Stacy Dreyer, First National Bank Nate Easter, ISU Research Park Sara Hunter, Vermeer Corporation Luke Jensen, Real Estate Service Group, Inc. Casey Johnson, Ames Ford Lincoln Dr. Sonya Stoltze Newstrom, Stoltze and Stoltze Family Dentistry Andrew Perry, McFarland Clinic, PC Cliff Smith - MSCD Past President, GlobalVetLink Jason Schwenneker, Renewable Energy Group Trevin Ward - CAA President Elect, Workiva Jill Wellman, Danfoss Dave Tucker,Workiva The Chamber Update newsletter is published by the Ames Chamber of Commerce 304 Main Street,Ames, IA, 50010; phone: (515) 232-2310; fax: (515) 233-3203 www.ameschamber.com.
Chamber hosts largest-ever event
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he biggest event of the year (and the largest Chamber event ever!), the 2017 Annual Event, presented by Des Moines Area Community College, was a HUGE success with over 650 people in attendance. The event showcased the past year’s accomplishments for the Ames ChamEHU DQG LWV DI¿OLDWH RUJDQL]DWLRQV ZLWK D VKRUW video recap of the Annual Award winners. Best-selling author and speaker Jon Gordon inspired the entire audience with his presentation on the power of positive energy. After the program guests enjoyed a delicious meal by Tasteful Dinners & Catering. The Youth Leadership Ames Group raised $744 for their “Skip One” project! Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible. Presenting: Des Moines Area Community College Gold Sponsors: Ames Ford Lincoln, Iowa State Athletics, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Nyemaster Goode PC Law Firm, Workiva Silver Sponsors: First National Bank, 3M Bronze Sponsors: Coca Cola Atlantic Bottling Company, Celebrations Party and Rental, Exchange State Bank, Windmill Coffee Roasters Table Sponsor: Central Iowa Transit and Signature Transportation Program Sponsor: Mediacom Bookstore Sponsor: University Bookstore Sign Sponsor: Sign Pro of Ames
Hannah Hoglund Photography
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 9
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
2017 ANNUAL EVENT PHOTOS
Hannah Hoglund Photography
Hannah Hoglund Photography
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AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
ANNUAL AWARDS
Service and business excellence in Ames
BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR: TOM POHLMAN
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AWARD: YVONNE KINZLER
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR : KEITH ARNESON
MSCD VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: TERI VEYSEY
CAMPUSTOWN ACTION ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: JUDI EYLES
AMES MAIN STREET FARMERS’ MARKET CONTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR: IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY
AMES FOUNDATION DIFFERENCE MAKER: KATHY DUBANSKY
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF AMES: “4 UNDER 40” AWARD: Tera Lawson, Jason Mortvedt, Luke Jensen, Heather Johnson
AWARD : YVONNE KINZLER, Kinzler Construction Services ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR : KEITH ARNESON, Pinnacle Properties of Ames ECONOMIC IMPACT AWARDS: CITY OF AMES, DITCH WITCH, IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PARK, MARY GREELEY
MEDICAL CENTER, STORY COUNTY, VERMEER MSCD VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: TERI VEYSEY, Country Landscapes CAMPUSTOWN ACTION ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR : JUDI EYLES, Iowa State University AMES MAIN STREET FARMERS’ MARKET CONTRIBUTER OF THE
YEAR: IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY AMES FOUNDATION DIFFERENCE MAKER: KATHY DUBANSKY, Workiva YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF AMES: “4 UNDER 40” AWARD: LUKE JENSEN, RESGI, HEATHER JOHNSON, The Octagon Center for the Arts, TERA LAWSON, Iowa State University, JASON MORTVEDT, Kinzler Construction Services
Annual Award winners were honored at a reception held at Ames Golf and Country Club in conjunction with the Chamber’s February Business After Hours event sponsored by Ames Golf and Country Club. BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR: TOM POHLMAN, Ames National Corporation COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
THANK YOU TO OUR 2017 INNER CIRCLE SPONSORS
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AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
March calendar Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
Thursday
2
Friday
Saturday
3
4
10
11
12 noon: Mike Louis Body & Paint (R/C)
5
6
7
4:30 p.m.: B Fabulous BBQ & Catering (R/C)
8
9
11:30 a.m.: Ames Day at the Capitol
12
Leadership Ames
13
14
15
16
17
18
20
21
22
23
24
25
29
30
31
Daylight Savings Time beings
19
4:30 p.m.: Progress Industries (R/C)
26
27
28 4:30 p.m.: Green Hills Retirement Community (R/C)
Youth Leadership Ames
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AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Celebrate with a ribbon cutting If your business has completed a major remodeling project, moved to a new location, changed ownership, or reached a milestone, you need to take advantage of the Chamber’s Ribbon Cutting service that brings members and the media to you. With each Ribbon Cutting, your business will be exposed to the Ames community and Story County. Event photos of your Ribbon Cutting will be published in the Chamber’s Weekly E-mail Update and the Ames Business Monthly. A Ribbon Cutting is a great way to invite people to your location and showcase your business.
The Ames Foundation 304 Main Street
Not only does this opportunity get people to your place of business, but it offers a unique networking environment in addition to some great marketing. So what are you waiting for? Contact Jan Williams at jan@ameschamber.com or call 232-2310, to schedule your Ribbon Cutting today!
✂ Chocolaterie Stam 230 Main Street
M A R C H 2 0 1 7 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | 13
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AMBASSADORS
Cindy Albin, Hunziker & Associates Tess Ashley,Global State Mortgage Alli Azbill, Global State Mortgage Don Borcherding, Greater Iowa Credit Union Steve Bock, RE/MAX Real Estate Center Laura Brassell, Bank of the West Nathan Buss, VisionBank Tara Carlson, Tom Randall Real Estate Team Kelsey Carper, Re/Max Real Estate Center John Coder, VisionBank Zack Cregeen, Re/Max Real Estate Center Lisa Downs, EXIT Realty Stacy Dreyer, First National Bank Pam Fleener, First National Bank Teresa Garman, Individual Member Leslie Ginder, ISU LAS Career Services Ashlee Goetsch, Waterford at Ames Chris Helland, George White Chevrolet Sherry Hosteng, RE/MAX Real Estate Ashley Howe, Xpanxion Sharon Johnson, RE/MAX Real Estate Michelle King, The Krell Institute Greg King, South Duff Matt Koehler, Greater Iowa Credit Union Paul Livingston, Hunziker & Associates, Realtors Danielle Minde, EXIT Realty Brandon Mumm, Ames Tribune David Orth, Spirited Giving Matthew Pacha, Hy-Vee Lincoln Center Mike Peckis, Sam’s Club Sarah Powers, RE/MAX Real Estate Tom Randall, Tom Randall Real Estate Team Tim Rasmussen, Alfred’s Carpet & Decorating Molly Redenbaugh, Danfoss Power Solutions Matt Roghair, Exchange State Bank Dorothy Schumer, Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau Tim Tryon, First National Bank Daryle Vegge, Ames Morning Rotary Allyson Walter, Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau Cherie Wandling, Wilson Toyota of Ames Michelle Wild, Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau Keathen Winter,Northridge Village
Landus Cooperative 2321 N Loop Drive
South Duff 416 Billy Sunday Road
14 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | MARCH 2017
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
Welcome, new Ames Chamber members Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, one of the newest eateries in Campustown! Plan to stop in and taste flavorful menu choices, while their staff gives full attention to prompt and efficient service, in a fun atmosphere. Check out their catering, too. Stop in at 2420 Lincoln Way, #103 , or visit www.fuzzystacoshop.com for more information. Hicks Tax & Accounting, located at 2519 Chamberlain St, #104, provides tax preparation, payroll and planning services, and general bookkeeping services. Owner Chris Hicks, a certified CPA, specializes in real estate and small business relations. Contact him at 515.460.3615 or visit www.hickstax.com for more information. Nite Owl Print & Copy, Inc., a printing business tradition for 35 years, is located at 526 Main St. They offer friendly, quality copy and print services Monday – Friday. Visit them in the old Train Depot or visit their website at www.niteowlprintshop.com. Ames Outdoor Supply, specializes in residential and commercial mowing equipment, trimmers, chainsaws and leaf blowers. They pride themselves on excellent customer service, and welcome all brands of equipment for repair work. Find them at 205 E Lincoln Way, give them a call at 515.232.2028, or visit www.amesoutdoorsupply.com to learn more. Dashing Boutique, located in the heart of the Main Street Cultural District at 218 Main St., is your destination for jewelry, accessories, gifts and more. Whether buying for yourself or for your loved ones, dash in for unique items at affordable prices. Visit www. shopdashing.com or call 515.233.6179
Join the Chamber. Make new connections, promote your business, take advantage of professional development programs and more when you join the Ames Chamber of Commerce. Contact Jan Williams at (515) 232-2310 for more information on how you or your organization can become a Chamber member. When you join, here are some of the many benefits you can take advantage of right away. s 0OST COUPONS on our Web site for FREE. s!TTEND MONTHLY Business After Hours, First Shot Sessions, Legislative Luncheons and more for FREE. s 4AKE ADVANTAGE of reasonably priced ways to promote your business such as ribbon cuttings and mailing labels, just to name a few. s $ISCOUNTED 9OUNG Professionals of Ames membership (ages 21 to 40).
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 15
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
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Thank you to the following members who have donated 10 percent more than their annual dues for Chamber projects. Because of contributions from members like these, the Ames Chamber can maintain a level of excellence in the services we provide. Please note: This represents only a portion of the Chamber’s Gold members. All Gold members will be listed one time during the year.
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Ames Chamber and AfďŹ liate staff ‡ Dan Culhane, President and CEO ‡ Peter Ampe, Director, Project Management ‡ Sarah Buss, Director, Sponsorship and Membership Events ‡ Karin Chitty, Campustown Action Association Executive Director
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‡ Edana Delagardelle, Event Coordinator, Main Street Cultural District
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Marketing ‡ Ron Hallenbeck, Executive Vice President, Existing Business and Industry ‡Kelly Hendrick, Client Services Coordinator
‡ Lauren Frandsen, Director, Communications & Marketing
‡ Cindy Hicks, Main Street Cultural District Executive Director
‡ John Hall, Director, Business Development &
‡ Amy Howard, Vice President, Finance &
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Operations ‡ Drew Kamp, Director, Story County Community Outreach and Government Affairs ‡Lojean Petersen, Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market Manager ‡Jan Williams, Director, External Business Relations
16 | A M E S B U S I N E S S M O N T H L Y | MARCH 2017
AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
Young Professionals of Ames
G
et involved with Young Professionals of Ames for opportunities to build and foster relationships though:
s,EADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT s0ROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT s#OMMUNITY /UTREACH s#ULTURAL AND SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES Visit www.ypames.com to learn more and join us!
90! 1UARTERLY %XCELLENCE !WARD IS BACK Mission: To reward members who positively represent YPA in their workplace and community. Guidelines: YPA members warrant recognition when they have achieved excellence in the areas of career advancement, community service projects, community leadership roles, or YPA leadership roles. Actions that merit recognition could include but are not limited to professional promotions, internal company awards, community awards, leadership positions, etc. Tell Us More: Any member can complete the form each quarter to be in consideration for recognition. The YPA Marketing Committee will approve and vote for each quarterly winner prior to publishing. Information provided may be posted among YPA social media outlets.
Actions that merit recognition include, but are not limited to: 6HUYLFH WKDW EHWWHUV WKH $PHV &RPPXnity and/or people in the community &DUHHU $GYDQFHPHQW RU DZDUG <3 6LOHQW /HDGHU ,QGLYLGXDOV ZKR are ‘behind the scenes’ promoting the YPA mission and outreach to community
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Lunch and Learns: Young Professionals of Ames has a long-standing history of quality lunch and learn sessions for members to take part in. Combining networking time with a topic of interest means members can maximize their lunch hour. In February, Coach Campbell spoke to Building and being part of a team culture in your organization and how it is one of the most important contributions we can make as young professionals. 9LVLW ZZZ \SDPHV FRP WR ¿QG PRUH ways to get involved and check the calendar for future events!
#ONGRATULATIONS TO THE @ 5NDER !WARD 7INNERS
2017 YPA Board Jessica Mortvedt, President, Haverkamp Properties Nathan Buss, Past-President, VisionBank Megan Vollstedt, PresidentElect, Workiva Charmian Stewart, Hilton Garden Inn Ames Taylor Hopper, Fox Engineering Heather Johnson, Octagon Adam Halbur, Grandgenett Family Dental Jason Mortvedt, Kinzler Construction Bri Anderson, Ames Public Library Justin Moorman, Moorman Clothiers Megan Filipi, Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau Chamber Liaison/Staff: Sarah Buss, Ames Chamber of Commerce
Thank you to our 2017 YPA sponsors
Ames Ford Lincoln First National Bank Global Reach Internet Productions Hunziker & Associates, Realtors ISU MBA Kingland Systems Mary Greeley Medical Center Munn Lumber North Grand Mall Story Construction VisionBank Hy-Vee Converse Conditioned Air
Connect with YPA From Left to Right: Tera Lawson, Jason Mortvedt, Luke Jensen, Heather Johnson The YPA '4 Under 40' Awards capture the spirit of extraordinary young professionals in our community by recognizing those individuals who take the mission of YPA to heart, which is to be leaders committed to improving the quality of life in Ames, and to establish a community of young professionals dedicated to building and fostering relationships through leadership development, professional development, philanthropic involvement, and cultural and social opportunities. These young professionals have demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, and community involvement in Ames, Iowa.
Visit www.ypames.com for upcoming events, committee openings and volunteer opportunities.
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AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
MAIN STREET CULTURAL DISTRICT
Local garden expert Teri Veysey named Main Street Cultural District Volunteer of the Year
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eri Veysey, Garden Designer with Country Landscapes, has been named the Main Street Cultural District (MSCD) 2016 Volunteer of the Year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many members of the community FRPPHQW RQ KRZ EHDXWLIXO WKH Ă&#x20AC;RZHUV are on Main Street,â&#x20AC;? said Cindy Hicks, MSCD Executive Director. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have Teri to thank for that.â&#x20AC;? Teri is a life-long Ames resident and one of the driving forces behind the EHDXWLIXO Ă&#x20AC;RZHUV LQ WKH SODQWHUV RQ 0DLQ
Street since 2010. She helps plan the annual planting in the Spring, then comes downtown on a weekly basis, all SumPHU WR FDUH IRU WKH Ă&#x20AC;RZHUV %XW ZKLOH she doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind doing the work, she isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t so quick to take credit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are all in this together,â&#x20AC;? said Veysey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great when you go to plant and there are people following behind you ready to help out. They are the ones you really should be thanking.â&#x20AC;? While a large group of volunteers helps out on planting day, Terri spends
her early morning hours during the summer single-handedly pulling weeds, pruning and mulching. She does it, not because she was asked to, but because she enjoys making downtown a beautiful place for the entire community to enjoy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teri is an Ames treasure,â&#x20AC;? said Jim Mason, Landscape Designer at Country Landscapes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Her plant knowledge is second to none and she will outwork anyone. We are lucky to have her in Ames.â&#x20AC;? Veysey was presented with her award at the Ames Chamber of Commerce annual event on February 7.
The Main Street Cultural District is a nationally accredited Main Street Community and a member of Main Street Iowa since 2009. Its mission is to advance and promote downtown as the destination district in the heart of our community. To keep updated on MSCD happenings, become a fan of the Main Street Cultural District on Facebook, bookmark www.AmesDowntown.org, RU FRQWDFW RXU RIÂżFH DW 06&' LV DQ DIÂżOLDWH RUJDQL]DWLRQ RI WKH Ames Chamber of Commerce.
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AMES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MARCH 2017
CAMPUSTOWN ACTION ASSOCIATION
CAA proposal hopes to improve accessibiliy, cleaniness in district
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he Campustown Action Association is currently working on a proposal to create a Campustown SSMID. SSMID stands for Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement District and is a mechanism for property owners and businesses in a GH¿QHG DUHD WR IXQG GLVWULFW VSHFL¿F improvements and services. Under SSMIDs, commercial and industrial property owners in a district formally organize and pay a fee along with their regular property taxes for services, projects, and district operations in order to LPSURYH D GH¿QHG DUHD 660,'V DUH established to deliver a variety of services above and beyond the level of existing municipal services. All funds pro-
vided by the SSMID levy are invested within the district and can serve as an economic development tool to revitalize neighborhoods and spur business growth and retention. CAA will hold three public meetings in February to gather input from property owners and businesses in the Campustown district. Anyone interested in learning more about the proposed Campustown SSMID is encouraged to contact the Campustown Action Association.
Interested in being a part of Summerfest 2017? Call or email us to find out how you can join the fun! 515.292.4528 director@amescampustown.com
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 19
COMMUNITY
Story County Community Foundation reaches $10 million in funds By Dan Mika
Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
T
he Story County Community Foundation now holds more than $10 million in funds after a flurry of donations late last year. The foundation reached the milestone after a massive holiday donation season from local nonprofits and residents who hold funds with the group, executive director Jennifer Garst said, along with a local nonprofit moving its money to the group. “We basically had $900,000 in donations at the end of last year,” Garst said. “It was the
last-minute rush, and ours was particularly big this year.” Contributions to those individual funds are eligible to the Endow Iowa tax credit, a state program designed to encourage citizens to retain their money to benefit their communities instead of leaving it to their family or from moving out of state if they leave Iowa to retire. Up to 25 percent of money donated to Endow Iowa-eligible groups can be used as a tax credit in addition to federal tax deductions. Garst said the foundation manages the money within those individual funds and helps fundholders make their own
Total market value of donations and community spending by the Story County Community Foundation from 2010 to 2016. GRAPHIC BY DAN MIKA/AMES TRIBUNE
contributions to causes of their choosing. “They might be buying new hymnals for their church, they might be buying groceries for the food shelf,” said Chuck Glatz, chairman of the foundation’s board. The foundation itself disbursed $540,570 in competitive grants to local companies last year, mostly from gambling revenue dividends the state gives to counties without casinos. State law restricts foundations using the Endow Iowa tax credit from spending more than 5 percent of their fund on their own grants per year. Glatz said the Foundation’s
“We basically had $900,000 in donations at the end of last year. It was the last-minute rush, and ours was particularly big this year.” Jennifer Garst, Story County Community Foundation executive director
major donation in 2016 was a $25,000 for an expansion to the Cambridge Fire Station, along with donations for legal services to mentally ill Story County residents, refrigerators and ovens for local food banks, emergency rent and utility assistance for the Ames Emergency Residence Project and more. Garst said it’s unlikely the
Legislature will consider the credit for dissolution to remedy the state’s $110 million budget shortfall this year. She said as long as the tax credit is in place, Story County nonprofits will continue to reap the Foundation’s benefits. “This $10 million will shed $500,000 a year forever,” she said. “These dollars will outlive us.”
MEDICAL
White appointed to MGMC Board
P
amela White, former dean of the College of Human Sciences at Iowa State University, has been appointed to the Mary Greeley Medical Center Board of Trustees. White will fill out the term of Dr. Louis Banitt, who retired from the board in January after 11 years of service. White’s current term will run through 2017. “Pam White is an
excellent addition to Mary Greeley’s board,” said Sarah Buck, board chair, in a news release. “She is a respected and involved member of our community and, thanks to her academic focus in food science and leadership as dean of the College of Human Sciences, she will bring a strong perspective on community health.” White was a member of the faculty in the
Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Iowa State from 1975 until she retired in 2016. During this time, she achieved the rank of university professor, served as interim chair of her department, and finally as dean for the College of Human Sciences. While dean, she chaired the national Board on Human Sciences. She also
served her field of food science through many leadership positions in professional societies, including American Oil Chemists’ Society, the Carbohydrate Division of the American Association of Cereal Chemists and the Institute of Food Technologists. She earned fellowship status in each of these professional organizations. White currently serves on the board of the
White
Banitt
United Way of Story County, and was a member
of the Rotary Club of Ames.
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SHOPPING
Worldly Goods set for 30th anniversary events By Dan Mika, Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
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orldly Goods, a fair trade store on Main Street, is preparing for a year of events as it celebrates 30 years in
Ames. The shop will host a fair trade film screening with Ames Public Library, hold a wine tasting at Wheatsfield Cooperative and hold a “reuse, repurpose and recycle” market throughout the spring and summer. The store is also inviting current and past volunteers to a celebration dinner in early October. Andrea Gronau, who has been the store’s manager for about five years, said running the store has been extremely rewarding. “It’s special to me that I get to be a part of it since I’ve been here for only a brief part of the history of Worldly Goods,” she said. “You get to work with our volunteers, we have the customers and we get to work with the artisans, so what better job could you have?” Worldly Goods was founded in 1987 by former Ames residents Holly and Larry Burkhalter. The couple grew up Mennonites and eventually became Unitarians, daughter Karol Crosbie said, which gave the store an ecunemical sense. After a few years in Campustown, the store moved to a basement underneath the now defunct Roy’s TV on the western end of
Main Street. Rae Reilly, who has volunteered for the store since 1994, recalled the basement as a pleasant location to work in despite not being very inviting. “We had a few windows, and it was a nice place,” she said. “But people kind of had to make a commitment to walk down the stairs to our shop and that I think that probably scared off some people.” Reilly said the move to Worldly Good’s current spot in 1997 was exciting but stressful, as the store remained open while volunteers moved its wares down to the new location. She said working with a fair trade shop was her previous experience working in retail. That was strengthened by a trip Reilly and others involved in the shop took to visit fair trade workers in Guatemala, where she saw local workers making living wages in safe working conditions. “The passion for fair trade has been what’s keeping me going for 23 years,” she said. Gronau believes the future is bright for the store at 30 years if it continues to draw community and volunteer support. She hopes to see aspects of fair trade and concern for everyone in the supply chain to become the standard over the next 30 years. However, she believes the decline of brickand-mortar sales to online shopping sites
Worldly Goods manager Andrea Gronau arranges products on a display rack. The fair trade shop is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. PHOTO BY DAN MIKA/AMES TRIBUNE
pose a challenge not just to her store, but to Main Street shops across the country. “People love to come put their hands on items, but they also like the convenience of buying stuff from their homes,” she said. “It’s
going to be important that all of the stores, all of us stick together to make sure people remember that we’re here.” For a full list of dates and events, visit worldlygoods.org.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
REG CEO named among top people in bioeconomy By Dan Mika
Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
R
Oh
enewable Energy Group CEO Daniel Oh has been named the secondmost influential person in the advanced bioeconomy by a leading biofuels news outlet. Oh is No. 2 on the list published by trade publication Biofuels Digest, up from his third position last year and from his
seventh position in 2015. Renewable Energy Group, which focuses on developing alternatives to petroleum among other bioscience initiatives, is headquartered in Ames. Jim Lane, editor and publisher of Biofuels Digest, said Oh moved up one position after former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack left the USDA to head the U.S. Dairy Export Council. However, Lane said Oh’s position rise wasn’t based solely
on Vilsack’s departure from the industry. “Dan’s been around for quite some time and is visible on the international stage because of REG’s growth, and the popularity of biodiesel around the world, and a track record of success,” he said. Oh said his position on the list reflect the efforts of the entire company and its position not only in biofuels, but in life science products in general.
He said the company has been steadily growing in Europe, and has taken ownership of two ethanol plants in Germany and are working towards opening a production plant in Amsterdam. The company also recently completed an expansion of the Ames location. The company is also working towards bringing other life science and synthetic chemical products to market this year, Oh said.
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 21
BRIMEYER
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Living on a fi xed (time) income Supervisors take I
recently read an article explaining how the pressures on family relationships have shifted throughout the economic cycle. During the Great Recession, families understandably felt the strains of economic hardship resulting from lost jobs or reduced hours. No big surprise there. As the economy has slowly but steadily recovered, however, the source of strain for many families has switched to a scarcity of time. A 2011 survey by Gallop supports that observation by concluding “the more cash-rich working Americans are, the more ‘time-poor’ they feel.” Time-poor is an interesting term; I would argue a misnomer. While increasing income disparity is an issue of concern for many, Father Time is the ultimate egalitarian. We all get the same amount of time each day (24 hours, 1440 minutes, or 86,400 seconds), save for our two partial days … the day we are born and the day we leave this planet. (I once had a guy in my time management workshop jokingly argue that one’s anniversary should be added to those two days; he may have a point.) So unless informed of an advanced fatal illness, time-poor seems inappropriate. What varies tremendously are the constraints on one’s time and their skills in choosing how to use it. Let’s discuss constraints first. Anyone who has cared for an infant child understands the very real schedule of feedings, coddling and diaper changes. The baby’s occasional two-hour nap does little to offset their nearly constant needs and the corresponding exhaustion that befalls the caretaker. As that child grows tending for their physical needs becomes less demanding, while nurturing their intellectual, emotional and spiritual growth requires more time. Every valued relationship requires a significant investment of time. Likewise, our own physical bodies have real needs for nourishment, sleep, relaxation, exercise, learning and spiritual development.
Rick Brimeyer Each takes time and can be neglected, but not without eventual negative consequences. Finally, every job requires time. Based on the type of work, that time may be tightly structured with set start, stop and break times or it may be highly flexible. Caring for children, developing relationships, taking care of ourselves and holding a job all require real constraints on our available time. The challenge is to avoid adding unnecessary perceived or self-imposed constraints on top of those real constraints. That is where choice enters … Ironically, despite advances in time-saving technologies and an overall standard of living, people generally find themselves busier than ever before. Wealth and technology haven’t led to more leisure time, just more choices. So how do we go about making better choices with our precious time? Start by identifying and prioritizing the various roles in your life … both at work and away (spouse, parent, supervisor, Cub Scout leader, volunteer firefighter, etc.) Identify measurable goals for each role against which you can hold yourself accountable Regularly schedule the necessary activities to reach those goals Your roles and goals above change infrequently, requiring
them to be revisited perhaps semiannually. Regularly scheduling the supporting activities, however, should occur weekly. Here’s an example. One of my highest priority roles when we were raising our three children was to be a father. After missing my son’s first high school swim meet due to a work conflict, I set a goal to attend every high school extra-curricular event. That meant contacting school officials to get the athletic, band and choral schedules on my calendar months in advance. I don’t recall another missed event during the ensuing 25 sports, nine choral or four band seasons unless two kids had simultaneous events. Establishing that proactive plan took many things competing for my time off the table. I wasn’t available to work late, travel for work, volunteer, play golf or watch Survivor on those evenings. Now as an empty nester, there is more time for golf and volunteering … for everything there is a season (except for watching TV and social media). It’s important to note that those conscious time choices effectively placed a ceiling on my career while working for a global company. But that’s what choices are all about and I’m fine with that. The dilemma helped me realize that the more flexible lifestyle of an entrepreneur was a better fit for me. And while work is important to me, I’m relatively certain that when my time is up I will not regret spending too little time working. We all know someone who chooses carefully and monitors their expenses closely because they’re on a “fixed income.” We can learn from them as we budget our fixed time. RICK BRIMEYER is the President of Brimeyer LLC, an independent management consulting firm located in Ames which guides organizations to higher performance by focusing on process improvement and leadership development. Further information is available at www.brimeyerllc.com or by calling (515) 450-8855.
fi rst step toward solar farms in Story County
By Austin Harrington
Staff Writer aharrington@amestrib.com
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he Story County Board of Supervisors has made a change in county regulations that could make Story County a leader in solar energy production over the coming years. The adopted regulations create a path to allow the construction of commercial solar farms in unincorporated Story County. For several years, Story County has adopted regulations to address “non-commercial” solar projects for residential and commercial properties, outlining standards for building or roofmounted and freestanding solar panels that serve a particular property. The newly altered regulations allow for solar panel systems to be designed solely for direct distribution to the electrical grid, according to a press release. That makes it possible for the county to evaluate and act on commercial solar farms, just as the county has been on the forefront of other forms of green energy in the state, according to Rick Sanders, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We are ahead of the game now with solar, just as we were with wind farms,” Sanders said
in a press release. Sanders said he believes the county will likely be held up as a model for other counties hoping to move in the same direction with solar farms. “I fully expect that other jurisdictions in Iowa, and well as throughout the Midwest, will review our regulations and use them as they develop their own strategies,” Sanders said. Sanders also noted that wind farms in Story County have had a similar effect in the region. The development and approval of commercial solar farm regulations is the first of many tasks identified in the board’s Cornerstone to Capstone Plan Implementation Matrix. The C2C Plan is Story County’s comprehensive long-range plan, looking forward to 2036. The plan includes economic prosperity goals, such as adopting strategies that support and encourage a strong, vibrant economy, while also creating a balanced approach to environmental sustainability. The implementation of solar farm regulations is the first product to come forth towards achieving those goals, according to the press release. To apply for the permits necessary to create commercial solar farms, follow the conditional use permit application process through the Story County Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment.
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FOOD PANTRY
MICA purchases refrigerator, now taking perishable donations By Dan Mika, Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
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he Mid-Iowa Community Action (MICA) food pantry in Ames can now accept non-perishable food donations thanks to an industrial refrigerator donated by the
Story County Community Foundation. MICA received the refrigerator early last week after winning one of 18 competitive grants from the Foundation last year, Foundation board vice chairman Daryle Vegge said. The grant was worth $5,000, but MICA
purchased a unit for $3,200. MICA spokeswoman Jaimie Adkins said the donation not only increases its food storage capacity, but also allows it to store perishable food such as milk, eggs, butter for those who use the pantry. Those foods can supplement the staple foods recipients get from the pantry. “It really increases our ability to give families fresh and nutritious options,” Adkins said. Adkins said the refrigerator can store fresh fruits and vegetables donated by
local farmers during the summer months for long periods of time. She said the pantry has already received some cheese and a few cartons of eggs, but doesn’t expect a situation where an influx of donations would cause the refrigerator to completely fill up. “We get enough families through here where that probably won’t happen,” she said. Donors can give to the pantry by visiting the Ames location at 230 SE 16th St., or by calling (515) 956-3333.
MICA family services worker Keliena Caldwell, left, and Story County Community Foundation board member Daryle Vegge stand with the food pantry’s new refrigerator. The refrigerator can store perishable food donations for long periods of time. PHOTO BY DAN MIKA/AMES TRIBUNE
BRAMMER
What Separates PAWs (Prodigious Accumulators of Wealth) from UAMs (Under Accumulators of Wealth)?
W
e all know someone like Suzy. She is an used car driving, brown-bag eating coworker who was hired at the company the same year as you. Did you know Suzy owns a lake place? Or the Foster’s, who live down the street in house just like yours. All four of their kids graduated from college and they didn’t borrow a dime. Thomas Stanley calls them the “Millionaires Next Door.” Families who made the most of what they earned over the years. These families and individuals have similar traits or habits. They have left clues for us to follow. Let’s check a few out: Do not spend more than you make — This is the obvious yet often ignored wisdom that has been handed down to every generation, but lived out by the PAWs. They shy away from conspicuous consumption. They are value shoppers whether it is for a car or college. They are less frequent travelers or diners. They invest the money they saved from these decisions.
Nate Brammer Education — PAWs believe in education and they invest in themselves. Our earning power is rooted in our education and job skills. If the stock market crashes, we still have our skills. In the same vein, they are lifelong learners. They are looking for ways push up their earnings through additional degrees or certifications. Keep Yourself Covered
— Although not the most exciting thing to address, PAWs do not see insurance is a discretionary budget item. It is very important to be insured against the uncertainties in life. A disability or expensive medical procedure can quickly derail all the hard work of saving. Also, utilizing an umbrella liability policy as your net worth grows will cover you in the event someone trips over your dog at the end of the sidewalk. Your Major Matters — There is big difference in earning potential even among careers with similar training and education requirements. They gravitate toward degrees that will reward their educational investment and encourage their children to do the same. They Save (and Invest) Early — Much like voting in Chicago, PAWs start saving early and often. They begin investing soon as they earn money. They are part of the get rich slowly crowd. By starting early, their money starts to work for them. They take full advantage
of the tax savings and employer matches (free money) provided through their retirement plans. If you can save and invest with your starting salary; paying yourself first, then it is likely a habit that will stick with you throughout your career. Also, they use 529 plans to save for their children’s education. Get Rich Schemes/Don’t Swing for the Fence — PAWs keep things simple when investing especially when their higher net worth opens door for risky investment options. They avoid concentrated portfolios for the inherit risk involved and they avoid complex investments because of the associated high fees. They almost always use a professional. I won the Lottery — Sorry, the PAWs don’t play the lottery, but they are very smart when financial rewards or windfalls happen such as raise, bonus or inheritance. They invest the found money instead of spending it on a trip to Europe or the cool red Maserati. They use it to improve their finances
House and Cars — PAWs are not what they drive or where they live. They typically drive American cars and they drive them longer than average. They also tend to stay put when it comes to their homes with wise upgrades. They understand the frictional costs of trading in or trading up such as broker’s fees, transfer taxes, origination fees or construction costs. A great example of this is Warren Buffett, who has lived in the same Omaha home since 1957. PAWS Avoid Debt — When they do use it, PAWs use debt wisely. PAWs use debt on things that increase and/or have a lasting value such as their home and their education. They pay cash for everything else including their cars. PAWs use Advisors — They understand and are believers in using advisors including attorneys, CPAs, and financial advisors. PAWs seek out advice from professionals to help them continue to be successful and to think through the pitfalls and risks on the horizon. Marrs Wealth Management can be the trusted advisor you need to help you navigate toward and in retirement. NATHAN D. BRAMMER MBA, AIF is a Principal and Investment Advisor at Marrs Wealth Management. He can be reached at Nate@MarrsWealthManagement.com.
MARCH 2017 | AMES BUSINESS MONTHLY | 23
PHOTOGRAPHER
Local photographer joins Team USA for World Photographic Cup By Dan Mika, Staff Writer dmika@amestrib.com
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n Ames photographer has been selected to join Team USA in the World Photographic Cup next month. McClanahan Studio co-owner Dan McClanahan was selected to a group of 18 American photographers whose work will be judged in the Cup final in Yokohama, Japan. His photo “Obsidian Dream” depicting rolling fields in front of an Icelandic mountain range will be up against nature and landscape submissions from photographers around the world. McClanahan learned he had been chosen for the team at a Professional Photographers of America event in
San Antonio. He didn’t anticipate being selected to the team, but said it was an honor to be chosen at an event he called “the Oscars on a micro scale for photographers.” “My image popped up (on the screen),” McClanahan said. “It was pretty trippy,” he said, while gesturing as if his head was exploding. McClanahan said he isn’t sure how much of Team USA’s hopes are riding on his photo, but the team has won twice in recent years in a competition where some of the best teams in the world are separated only by decimal points. However, getting recognition as a Midwest photographer is already an honor, McClanahan said. He and his wife are both Iowa natives and Iowa
State University graduates, and he said being in the mix with photographers in cities with large art scenes is the best of both worlds. “The work I’ve always admired and strived to be like was made in Los Angeles and New York,” he said. “But we’ve always liked the midwestern vibe. The fact that we’re able to live here and shoot that type of work and have clients that value it is a really good feeling.” Local photographer Dan McClanahan poses with a print of his photo “Obsidian Dream.” The photo is one of 18 American images that will be judged as part of the World Photographic Cup next month. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
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