Business Connection • 0123

Jennifer Brown

business CONNECTION

Terry Christensen PUBLISHER tchristensen@messengernews.net

Bill Shea EDITOR bshea@messengernews.net

Leanne Darr SALES MANAGER ldarr@messengernews.net

Nick Manwarren GRAPHIC DESIGNER nmanwarren@messengernews.net

Jody Kayser SALES CONSULTANTS jkayser@messengernews.net Charlene Peterson cpeterson@messengernews.net

ADDRESS: PHONE: 713 Central Ave. (515) 573-2141 Fort Dodge, IA 50501 FAX: (515) 571-4529

Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is published monthly by The Messenger in cooperation with The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2022. Reproduction in part or in whole without the expressed written permission of Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is strictly prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by return postage.

Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, artwork or manuscripts. The opinions expressed in editorial material are not necessarily the opinions of Fort Dodge Business Connection.

Supervisor Dencklau stands at a bridge built over drainage district #1. This drainage district was completed in 1912. Today there are over 400 drainage districts in Webster County. It is the duty of the Supervisors to maintain the systems to their original conditions.

GET INVOLVED BE BETTER FOR IT

2022 has come and gone and like 2021 Fort Dodge and Webster County have continued to grow economically and have continued to outpace comparable areas in economic prosperity and growth. We further continue to recognize some of the reasons behind the economic success, such as good governance, good leadership, continued community development enhancing the quality of life, and outstanding community collaboration and cooperation. The collaboration has not just been within Webster County but also, almost as importantly, throughout the region as well as within State and Federal government levels.

In the past, we did not do as well in becoming involved in building partnerships and good relationships with people and organizations outside our own jurisdictions, but with whom many decisions are made that, directly and indirectly, affect our economy and quality of life. When we participate outside of our own communities, we gain the opportunity to get and see different ways of approaching problems, we can network and

exchange ideas, and we have a better opportunity to effect policy and regulation that is established by others that affects us locally. Only by becoming aware do we gain knowledge, and only by developing relationships with those other decision-makers can we become more influential in their decision-making. These partnerships and relationships enable all of us to become true and valuable leaders.

Any of us can show leadership by being involved and voicing our opinions, but the question is always, is it good or bad leadership, just like having a relationship, is it a good or a bad relationship? Only with good relationships can we affect decisionmaking beneficial to all of us.

The City of Fort Dodge and The Webster County Board of Supervisors have enabled the Growth Alliance to contract with Capital Consultants of Iowa to inform and lobby on our behalf at the Iowa Legislative level which has been very effective in keeping us informed, helping to arrange contacts,

Dennis Plautz

influencing legislation, and generally providing for better local inputs on economic rules and legislation affecting Webster County. We thank them for seeing the value in this. Further, we utilize the influence gained thru membership in The Iowa Chamber Alliance, Professional Developers of Iowa, The Iowa Association of Counties, and The Iowa League of Municipalities. We also have good contact and assistance from our locally elected lawmakers in the Iowa Legislature in Des Moines.

With all this in mind, in order to maximize our potential, it is imperative that we encourage involvement from community members on the local level also. To view the different Boards and Commissions in Fort Dodge, visit the City of Fort Dodge website and click on the Boards and Commissions link under the “Your Government” tab. On the Webster County website, applications for Boards and Commissions can be found under the Board of Supervisors tab. To view openings on Statewide Boards and Commissions visit talentbank.iowagov.

I hope that we continue to grow economically, and I believe we can. I further know that this will be predominantly dependent on the cooperation, collaboration, and involvement of you, our citizens, and your knowledgeable participation in support of that goal. I believe that it is the most important ingredient in what separates areas that are successful most of the time from ones that are never or only occasionally successful economically.

Q&A

WITH

RHONDA CHAMBERS

FORT DODGE REGIONAL AIRPORT

WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF HAVING THE FORT DODGE REGIONAL AIRPORT IN OUR COMMUNITY?

Accessibility to aviation creates time-savings, economic efficiencies, and most importantly, enables human connections nationwide and globally.

Aviation is a tool that contributes to the efficiency and success of many companies in our region. Beyond jobs directly related to aviation, businesses can boost productivity using private aircraft, airlines, and charters. Our airport is an important transportation asset and one worth investing in.

Rhonda Chambers

Q&A

WITH RHONDA CHAMBERS - FORT DODGE REGIONAL AIRPORT

WHAT AIRLINE PROVIDES SERVICE TO FORT DODGE, AND HOW CAN TRAVELERS BOOK TICKETS? HOW MANY FLIGHTS COME THROUGH THE AIRPORT EACH WEEK?

Our air service is provided by SkyWest Airlines operating under a code share agreement with United Airlines. This means that the aircraft and flights are operating as United Airlines.

Tickets are easily booked at United.com or United’s app. Currently, we have two regional jet flights per day except on Tuesdays and Saturday. These flights go to Chicago O’Hare with connections to United’s national and global network.

2022 WAS A BUSY TRAVEL YEAR. ARE THERE ANY EXPECTED TRAVEL TRENDS FOR 2023?

It is expected that demand for air travel will continue to increase. Commercial aviation drives 5% of U.S. GDP—the equivalent of $1.25 trillion in 2022.

Every day, U.S. airlines operate 25,000 flights carrying 2.3 million passengers to/from nearly 80 countries and 66,000 tons of cargo to/from more than 220 countries.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR TRAVELERS AS THEY PLAN THEIR NEXT ADVENTURE?

I encourage travelers to book on the airlines’ website or app. Using the airlines booking network, instead of a third party, allows you to receive critical information such as delays or changes to your flight. It also provides information such as forecasted weather problems at your destination and may allow you to book a different flight with no additional charges.

The airline industry is coping with pilot and staff shortages. As you can see from the number of flights per day, a problem with any one airport will have ripple effects throughout the system. Therefore, I recommend booking flights with ample time to accommodate for delays, cancellations, and changes to your flight and arrival at your destinations. Some situations are more critical than others. For example, if you are attempting to catch a cruise plan a cushion of time in your flight schedule allowing for any unforeseen delays that could prevent you from “missing the boat”.

Finally, when things go wrong try to keep your emotions in check. Understandably your plans are being interrupted and it is stressful for you. But getting upset and angry at a ticket agent or someone on the phone will not fix the current situation. The person you are talking to is not responsible for the disruption. Remember, they are the person who may be able to help you make other arrangements to get you back on track.

artistspot MaryAnn McSweeny-Buhr

Age: Youth is ageless. Hometown: Born and raised in Maynard, Iowa. Have lived in Fort Dodge since 1990. Instruments: Voice & Piano.

used my dance skills, as assistant choreographer. My senior year, Mr. Libke created a new class in modern poetry. During this class, I found one of my passions, poetry. We read, interpreted, analyzed and even wrote poetry. I will be forever grateful for all that he taught me and know that my love of poetry has guided my love of texts in my music career. Mrs. Dora Miehe, my piano teacher from 5th-12th grade was an amazing woman. She had a beautiful baby grand piano in her home. I remember our lessons were filled with the fundamentals of music theory, Hannon Exercises, Bach Inventions, lesson books and of course, lots of laughter. When Mrs. Miehe found out I loved to sing, she even allowed me to play and sing during my piano lessons. She was a delightful woman who allowed me to grow naturally, instilled a love of music in me, and even allowed me to teach her a little bit about rock music. Dr. Jonathan Retzlaff, my voice teacher as an adult, taught me so much about musicianship, artistry, vocal pedagogy, following my heart, and taking risks. I’m sure I went into the field of education because of the impact teachers made in my life. “If just one person believes in you.” So often, that is all it takes. I was fortunate to have been surrounded by amazing people who impacted my life as teachers. My life has truly been blessed by great teachers and for this I will be forever grateful.

If you had a chance to meet any performer/musician, alive or dead, whom

I would love to meet Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, George Frideric Handel and Antonio Vivaldi. Their music speaks to me in so many ways. As a soprano, I have sung many of their arias and art songs.

What are some of your musical accomplishments?

Tell us about your musical background/education.

MaryAnn McSweeny-Buhr is owner of McSweeny’s School of the Performing Arts where she teaches voice lessons, and is music director of the Fort Dodge Area Children’s Chorus. She has over ten years of public school experience and twenty-nine years of private school experience. She is a graduate of Mankato State University and Loras College, and holds a bachelor’s degree in music and a master’s in educational leadership and administration. Buhr has pursued additional graduate work at the University of Iowa, the University of Northern Iowa, the University of Wisconsin, Moorhead State University and Marycrest College. Mrs. Buhr has taught vocal music at the elementary, junior high and high school levels as well as applied voice at the college level. Mrs. Buhr considers herself to be a lifelong learner and has been a voice student of Michael Ricciardone, New York City, former Associate Coordinator of Vocal Studies at New York University Steinhardt School of Education, and Dr. Jonathan Retzlaff, Associate Professor of Voice at the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester, New York. She served a two-year term as President of the Lewis & Clark National Association of Teachers of Singing Chapter (2016-2018). In 2013, MaryAnn assumed the responsibility as coordinator of the Youth Honors Recital co-sponsored by the Fort Dodge Area Symphony and McSweeny’s School of the Performing Arts. McSweeny’s School of the Performing Arts was the host of this yearly event from 2013-2020. Her students are frequent semifinalists and finalists in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) competitions, continue to be consistent recipients of college vocal music scholarships and are frequently cast as musical leads in area school and community musical theatre productions. Younger vocalists and instrumentalists are encouraged to pursue musical excellence through participation in area Bill Riley State Fair Talent Search Shows during the summer with vocalists consistently qualifying to perform at the Iowa State Fair with a Grand Champion Sprout awarded in 2018. Former voice students are currently pursuing music at the college level, teaching music at the elementary, junior high, high school and college levels, pursuing vocal performance careers and teaching voice privately.

Who has had the greatest influence on you musically?

PARENTS. I have been involved in the arts since I was three and have been teaching since I was seventeen years old, so I know firsthand the impact the arts have in a life. I grew up on a dairy farm in Northeast Iowa near Maynard, Iowa and my parents sacrificed so that I could study dance beginning at the age of three and piano lessons at a very early age. The arts were valued, encouraged and important in my family. TEACHERS. My favorite teachers were those who inspired me to use my imagination and creativity, encouraged me to use my heart and to think outside of the box. Mrs. Helen Mills was my fourth grade teacher. For one writing assignment, she allowed our class to choose a picture and write a story about it. I chose a mermaid. I loved being in Mrs. Mill’s class since she brought out the creative, inquisitive, and dreamer in me. Mr. Daryl Libke was my high school English teacher, and speech and drama director. Believe it or not, I was very shy and somewhat of an introvert throughout my formative years. Mr. Libke saw something special in me and encouraged me to participate in speech during my junior and senior years of high school and also encouraged me to try out for the musical “Hello Dolly” my senior year. I really didn’t want to try out for the musical, but after much encouragement, I tried out and was cast as Irene Malloy, a leading role. I also

Teachers had a profound impact on my life, so I continue to dedicate my life to teaching, inspiring and supporting the next generation of musicians and artists. It is truly a privilege to have former students enroll their own children in the children’s chorus and return to study voice as adults. This is a testament to the value of the arts and the impact the arts have and continue to have in one’s life.

What is the most unusual thing to have happened to you, or to a student during a performance?

I remember a number of years ago, accompanying a quintet during an area Bill Riley Talent Show. When we arrived, I checked out the piano and realized the piano was an older piano that had seen it’s better days. As I began accompanying, the ivories started flying off every direction while this young male quintet was singing. All I could do was stay focused! I also remember a Bill Riley Talent Show at the Fort Museum Opera House when there was a tornado warning and everyone had to evacuate to the bathroom areas.

Would you describe the mission of the McSweeny’s School of the Performing Arts?

McSweeny’s School of the Performing Arts mission is to nurture the next generation of artists, musicians, and performers through our example, teaching, mentoring and guidance and enhance the quality of life to all involved in these artistic endeavors. The arts are a lifeline to many, and we have a moral obligation and responsibility to bringing out the performing musician in students of all ages. Every person, deserves an opportunity to pursue the arts. I’ve included a quote from one of my voice students. “Music is what anchors me in the present. It is how I give back, and honor myself and the gifts I have been given to share.”

What has been the hardest lesson to learn when it comes to music and running a performing arts school? We are celebrating our 27th year in business, so there have been many successes and challenges over the years. When we opened McSweeny’s School of the Performing Arts, we opened it so our children and the children in this community and the surrounding area were taught to be active participants in music and life. Our children were very young during that time, so It was a challenge navigating business and family life, but to have our children involved in music making at the studio, made it so much easier. They also made many friends and learned the value of a strong work ethic by helping out in so many ways at both the studio and home. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by the best people, family and friends. Our teachers, my husband, (Michael) and area pianist and best friend, (Michelle HavlikJergens), and extended family, support the studio in so many ways and for this I am immensely grateful. The key to success in any endeavor is to be surrounded by great people, family and friends and to never forget your roots.

What do you most enjoy about the art and culture scene in Fort Dodge? I love attending local and area concerts and musicals and watching my students and their friends perform. There is so much time and energy that goes into each recital, concert, musical or performance so it is essential to support live music and theatre. The arts are truly the lifeblood of any community.

Zach Midtling

Age: 17 • Grade/School: 11 - St. Edmond Catholic School • Hometown: Fort Dodge

What do you want to do after high school?

I would like to major in Music education (preferably choir).

Who are some of your role models and why? Ryan Swedean helps me become a better performer and Jacque Batz inspires me through tough and stressful times, whether it be in music or real life, that it will all be fine.

What other activities do you participate in at St. Ed’s? I participate in The Student Ambassador program, Musical, Jazz Band, Show Choir, Chamber Choir, All-State Music, UNI Festival of Bands, Individual Speech, Large Group Speech, Solo/Small ensemble, Quiz Bowl, Honor Society.

Walk us through a typical day in the life of Zach Midtling. I wake up at 6 each morning to go to either Jazz Band or Show Choir, depending on the day. I then go through a normal school day. After school, I go home and relax or do homework depending on what I have. I usually have an evening practice of some kind or I help at some other school events. Then, I sleep and do it all over again.

Tell us about some of the cultural experiences you have had growing up in Fort Dodge.

I always love seeing shows being put on by Comedia or Stage Door Productions etc. because they have a little bit of the whole town there and they have this stage chemistry even though some people don’t even know the person next to them.

What is your earliest memory performing?

Performing at the Webster City Middle School auditorium in Kindergarten.

What do you most enjoy about performing?

I enjoy being able to express my true self through music when I perform.

Are you in band and choir? If so, what part or instrument do you play or sing?

I am a tenor in choir and I play the trombone in Band.

You’re stranded on a deserted island. What 3 things do you bring?

I would bring a sword to retrieve food and for defense. I would also bring my trombone for entertainment and I need the practice anyway. The last thing I would bring is a journal so I don’t go insane with my thoughts.

Go to www.fineartsassociation.com for a list of upcoming events and our members…..

Over 60 events each month!

To become a member or let us know about an event contact:

Shelly Bottorff, Executive Director • fdfinearts@gmail.com

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

First State Bank has maintained its role as a locally owned and operated community bank since 1935. Becoming a leader among financial institutions in Iowa they can offer customers the latest products and services available from a welcoming atmosphere and a team of bankers made up of your neighbors and your friends!

First State Bank opened its first branch location in Webster City in 1935 and has grown to eight locations throughout Central Iowa, Webster City, Stanhope, Eagle Grove, Fort Dodge, Clarion, Humboldt, Jewell and Lake View.

GREATER FORT DODGE GROWTH ALLIANCE BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Kraig Barber

In May of 2007 First State Bank opened its fourth branch location in Fort Dodge, moving into existing office space at the time and in August of 2009 into a newly built facility where they remain today at 3031 5th Ave S.

Kraig Barber joined the team in Fort Dodge in 2007. He resides in Fort Dodge with his wife, Regina. As an active member of the Fort Dodge community Kraig is a board member and Past-President of Noon Rotary, a board member and Past-President of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, and a board member of the Development Corporation of Greater Fort Dodge. Kraig has served on several other boards in the past as well.

First State Bank offers all the products and services you would expect from a leading financial institution including a full line of business, agriculture, mortgage, and consumer deposit and lending services along with financial

management and the latest in convenient banking technology including online banking and mobile banking.

Our slogan, First for You! means our staff is committed to building relationships and assisting our customers with their individual banking needs and helping you reach your financial goals.

City Connect FORT DODGE

Together we’re building an ultrafast fiber-optic network that connects Fort Dodge to the world and the future! Building this network takes skill and patience as we work to connect every resident and business in Fort Dodge. Along the way, we will ask for your help getting your home or business ready to Welcome Limitless Possibilities!

pal broadband utilities and will be working with Fort Dodge as well,” said Ekel. “They have trained technicians who have begun contacting residents within the first ring to schedule a site survey. These technicians will come to your business or home and meet with the property owner to find where the fiber should be brought in underground to the building. They will install a gray utility box on the exterior of

With Real Internet you’re not just a consumer of downloadable content, you are ready to create a new future for yourself and all of us. With Real Voice you’ve got all the benefits of a traditional landline but carried over strands of glass fiber that have set the standard for reliability.

tute our fiber “ring” around Fort Dodge.

According to Ekel, the technician will also need to enter the building to find the best location to place the optical network terminal should the property owner choose to purchase ser vices through Fort Dodge Fiber.

“Once these site surveys have been completed, property owners will have a waiting period while construction makes it to their neighborhood,” added Ekel.

Residents and business owners are still able to register for a fiber drop by logging on to FortDodgeFiber.com.

“Tenants should reach out to their property manager to find out if their rental property has been registered for a fiber drop as well,” added Ekel. “While Fort Dodge Fiber is in the construction phase, we will cover the costs of the site survey and fiber drop.”

at 617 Central Avenue, is also now open to the public with staff available Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.

“When the city began the process of creating a broadband utility, having a fully staffed customer service center was a top priority,” said Ekel. “We have seen a steady stream of residents coming in to have their questions answered.”

Together we’re building an ultrafast fiber-optic network that connects Fort Dodge to the world and the future! Building this network takes skill and patience as we work to connect every resident and business in Fort Dodge. Along the way, we will ask for your help getting your home or business ready to Welcome Limitless Possibilities!

Fort Dodge businesses have also been registering for the city’s municipal broadband utility as well.

Fort Dodge is now the second largest city in Iowa with a municipal broadband utility.

Together we’re building an ultrafast fiber-optic network that connects Fort Dodge to the world and the future! Building this network takes skill and patience as we work to connect every resident and business in Fort Dodge. Along the way, we will ask for your help getting your home or business ready to Welcome Limitless Possibilities!

20 1 7N E W S 20 23

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance

JANUARY 2023 24 North 9th Street, Suite A Fort Dodge, IA 50501 Phone 515-955-5500 Fax 515-955-3245 www.greaterfortdodge.com

STAFF

Dennis Plautz CEO dennis@greaterfortdodge.com

Kelly Halsted Economic Development Director kelly@greaterfortdodge.com

Jill Nelson Community Development Director jill@greaterfortdodge.com

Skyla Porter Organizational Administrator skyla@greaterfortdodge.com

Deena McCaulley Office Manager deena@greaterfortdodge.com

Lydia Schuur Communications Specialist lydia@greaterfortdodge.com

MISSION STATEMENT

“Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance is an efficient organization whose mission is to unify and coordinate accountable, economic and community development, to enhance the quality of life in Fort Dodge and the region.”

New Member Spotlight

Rejuvenate Health + Wellness is a premier wellness clinic offering Botox, dermal fillers, functional medicine, and IV therapy. They are located at 1728 Central Avenue in Fort Dodge.

Instagram: rejuvenate_fd 515-571 -1955

Your CBD Store is the largest hemp retailer in the US and the exclusive home of award -winning, hemp-derived SUNMED products. Their products are designed to assist the adult consumer to regain, revitalize & improve their quality of life. Get Sunmed Fort Dodge offers USDA Certified Organic and clinically proven products that set the standard for hemp products.

Their products include oil tinctures, water solubles, beverage enhancers, skincare, and gummies, providing a one-stop-shop that fulfills the needs of the wellness customer. All the products are thirdparty lab tested and include a QR code located on the product to see the full -panel certificates of analysis (COA).

Get Sunmed Fort Dodge will be located at 1026 Central Ave and will be opening soon!

Rise Women’s Fitness & Wellness is a place for women of all fitness levels to come achieve their health and wellness goals. They offer personal training, group classes, strength and conditioning, yoga, mobility, nutrition training, and so much more.

Rise Women's Fitness and Wellness is located at 1728 Central Ave, Suite 5 in Fort Dodge.

New Member Spotlight

B.B. Ques Barbecue Store is dedicated to carrying high quality, unique items in their online barbecue store. They offer the finest Rubs and Sauces for your grill and kitchen – all that’s left for you to do is enjoy.

Now offering your favorite meats and sides for all special events with catering! B.B. Ques provides take and go or free delivery - call John at 515 -227 -0779 for more information!

Fort Dodge Physical Therapy's story started in 2022 when two companies, 21st Century Rehab and Home Town Physical Therapy, teamed up to start a clinic in Fort Dodge. They are local to Iowa and therapist-owned. At Fort Dodge Physical Therapy, they reduce and eliminate pain, increase mobility, and get people back to the activities they love through hands-on care, prescribed exercises, and patient education.

You can reach Fort Dodge Physical Therapy by calling 515 -416 -8822. They are located at 102 N 25th St in Fort Dodge.

tRIBBON

UnityPoint Health - Fort Dodge Trinity Lymphedema, Trinity Rehabilitation Services, and Trinity Wound Center

Congratulations to UnityPoint Health - Fort Dodge Trinity Lymphedema, Trinity Rehabilitation Services, and Trinity Wound Center on your ribbon cutting!

This new space, located inside Entrance C at Trinity Regional Medical Center, brings all outpatient therapy inside the hospital, providing convenience for patients and employees.

County Connect Webster

Keith Dencklau

Keith Dencklau was elected to serve as Webster County Supervisor, representing District 1, sixteen years ago. He ran for office because he felt that District 1 should be represented by a farmer because much of that district is agricultural. He grew up in Badger and farmed in that area his entire life, and felt that with his ag background, he would be a good fit for the Webster County Supervisor Board.

While in office, Keith was active with various boards:

• Midas Government Sharing Committee

• Webster County Drug Alliance

• City/County/Growth Alliance

• Drainage District No. 96 Representative

• Squaw Creek Management Authority

• North Racoon River Watershed Coalition

• Beaver Creek Watershed Management Authority

• Convention and Visitors Bureau

• Crime Stoppers

• Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance Board of Directors

• Foster Grandparents

• Iowa Crossroads of Global Innovation

• Conference Board

• President of the Iowa Drainage District Association for 10 years

As one can imagine, there is a multitude of projects that Keith feels most proud of. Serving the Webster County residents for sixteen years, he has had a role in many opportunities for growth.

Keith worked with landowners in District 1 and helped to improve and update district tile systems that were originally installed in the 1900s, updating them to current standards. He also collaborated with the City and Growth Alliance to bring Valero, Cargill, CJ Bio, and Poet to our community. Keith was influential with surrounding landowners at the Ag Park, which helped build the Crossroads of Global Innovation.

Through his auction business, Keith sold thousands of dollars of county-owned property, at no cost to the county. He also played a role in expanding the bike trail system around Fort Dodge, to Kennedy Park, around Badger Lake, and the new trail that will be built to connect to Badger. Keith was a part of the Law Enforcement Center and Courthouse clock tower remodels and worked on the purchase of the building that now houses the Webster County Attorney’s office and Webster County Public Health.

Keith participated in efforts to bring the Wind Farm to the southern part of Webster County, as well as the Solar Farm to the northern portion. The completion of these two projects made Webster County 90% green energy, which is important to attract new businesses to our region.

One of Keith’s special memories involved a dinner hosted for the dignitaries representing CJ Bio, before they became established in Webster County. The purpose of the meeting was to convince CJ Bio to build its first company in North America in the Crossroads of Global Innovation. Later, when the plant was built, a group of people from Webster County was invited to visit Seoul, South Korea and Beijing, China, touring the main offices and facilities. Keith feels honored to have been a part of the dinner and group that traveled.

When asked what advice he would give to another person interested in running for office, Keith says, “If you are elected and realize that you won’t make everybody happy on an issue, just listen to all concerns and try to make the best decision for the people you represent.” He also thinks it’s important for a person to “be able to work and listen to the people that elected you to the position and be able to sit down with fellow county employees and work out the problems and concerns they might be having. Most importantly, try to be fiscally responsible with tax dollars that are collected and spent in the county.”

Keith would like to thank all the employees and people of Webster County. It has been his pleasure to work for them for the past sixteen years. “There are lots of great county employees, from the courthouse to the road crews, to conservation, who handle issues every day; they made my job easy!”

Fellow Webster County Supervisors have parting words for Keith as he enters retirement:

“I’m going to miss Supervisor Dencklau. We’ll all miss him tremendously. Whether he was walking the courthouse stairs in the mornings, bringing up the questions no one else considering during drainage meetings, or not shying away from sharing his opinions as we sat around the desk, he was a constant wealth of knowledge. Thank you, Keith, for all that you have done and continue to do for our community.”

– Niki Conrad, Webster County Chairperson

“Wishing Keith the best on his retirement, although we know he will not truly retire! Keith was a great asset for me as I began my journey into my role as a Supervisor. Congratulations Keith!”

– Nick Carlson, Vice Chairperson

“Keith’s ability to work with anyone is second to none. The historical knowledge and ability to share it will be missed. I will miss seeing him walk his laps in the morning and his music playing throughout the building. Hope you enjoy your travels and time with your family.“

– Mark Campbell

OTIONAL

tRIBBON

Pella Windows and Doors

Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

THE POWER IN GIVING BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY

Everyone can be great because everyone can serve."

Martin Luther King Jr.

Throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood, community is an essential part of everyday existence. No matter where we grew up, it is almost certain that, in some way, your community contributed positively to your formative years. This is why it is so important to return these favors, and to give back, even in small ways.

There are many ways of contributing to your community. Giving back doesn’t have to be a grand gesture, a large donation, or a big show of gratitude. In fact, it is often the small things that can make a big difference. The easiest and most simple way of contributing to your community is through your generosity and willingness to help others less fortunate. Whether donating to your favorite charities or causes or volunteering in ways that help others, contributing to your community is both rewarding and enriching.

Giving back may be one of the most important principles in life. Those who are givers often receive the rewards of giving in many ways. By doing good you feel good, and when you feel good, you inspire others around you to take positive action in their lives too.

We all need a helping hand from time to time. It is often our communities that support us in those hard times, and now it is our turn to support them, as the rewards of pitching in and helping those in need can be one of the most enriching feelings in life.

It’s been written that the poor will always be among us, but in recent times these disparities have grown by leaps and bounds. Today, the importance of giving back has been magnified. Nonprofits and community organizations are feeling the strain of increased demand for services from those in need while funding for many has begun to dry up.

By contributing to a cause, you are working towards making your community a better place. The donation of your money or time can increase your impact by encouraging your friends, family, colleagues, and networks to give as well. Your community is only as strong as the people within it. The more support that can be provided, the better off the community will be.

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” Coretta Scott King

Thriving communities are those that have engaged citizens who get involved and give back to their community. By investing in their community, they enhance the quality of life for themselves, their family, their neighbors and fellow citizens. The communities that are on the decline, maybe even dying, are those in which citizens are apathetic, unengaged and uninterested in supporting vital projects and organizations in their community.

“Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.” …Martin Luther King Jr.

RANDY KUHLMAN UNITED WAY OF GREATER FORT DODGE

"

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Ways mission is to serve as a catalyst for charitable giving to help our community become a place where people will want to live, work, play an raise their families.

There are several ways that you can give through the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way. You can:

• Give to the United Way campaign to help less fortunate and underprivileged families and children that are struggling to meet the most basic living needs for housing, food, clothing, transportation, medical care and programs focused on positive youth development.

• Give to funds that are already established in support of trail systems, parks, education, recreation, environmental and beautification projects, community safety initiatives and even your church.

• Set up your own charitable fund and use it as a convenient tool for managing your charitable giving.

No matter how you give, by using the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way as your charitable giving vehicle, your donations are tax deductible, and some donations can even qualify you for receiving state of Iowa tax credits.

For more information on how the Fort Dodge Community Foundation can help you give back to your community in meaningful ways, contact our office by calling 515-573-3179, or stop in and visit with us at our office located at 24 North 9th Street in downtown Fort Dodge.

College Connect

Find Your Future at Iowa Central Multiple Scholarship Opportunities make Iowa Central Accessible and Affordable

Iowa Central Community College has one common its students: to have them complete their degrees or certifications in the shortest amount of time possible, with the least amount of student loan debt, so that they can have a better life.

Along with more than 100 degrees and certifications to choose from, Iowa Central offers multiple scholarship opportunities to assist students in meeting the financial needs of attending college.

The Iowa Central Community College Foundation oversees 95 scholarships for financially assisting students. These scholarships are made possible by donations from various businesses, organizations and individuals. Foundation scholarships may be based on need or specified donor criteria. For more information on Iowa Central Foundation Scholarships or to apply online see www.iowacentral.edu/foundation/scholarships. asp on the Iowa Central website. To be considered for Foundation Scholarships, applications must be received by March 31, 2023.

Iowa Central is one of many Iowa institutions offering free tuition through the Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship Program. The Last-Dollar Scholarship focuses on increasing opportunities for more Iowans to acquire the skills to fill high-demand jobs and meet workforce needs. The Last-Dollar Scholarship makes obtaining degrees and certifications in high demand fields possible by covering the remaining tuition and institution-wide mandatory fees after non-repayable state and federal financial aid are applied. This scholarship is available for any student who wants to earn a post-secondary credential, up to an associate degree, that leads to a job designated as high demand by the Iowa Workforce Development Board. To be eligible students must fill out a FAFSA Form by August 1, 2023 and be an Iowa resident enrolled full-or-part-time in eligible programs. For more information on the Last-Dollar Scholarship see https://www.iowacentral.edu/ last_dollar/

For students involved in campus activities; scholarships are available for art, dance, newspaper, vocal and instrumental music, drama/theater and student ambassador/student government

and athletics. Activity scholarship amounts may vary based on program and department.

Departmental Scholarships are available to traditional and non-traditional students enrolled in business, education, psychology, health sciences, industrial technology, language arts and humanities, math, science and social sciences. Departmental scholarship amounts may be determined by a student’s academic adviser.

For traditional students, various academic scholarships are available through the Admissions Department. High school class valedictorians who attend Iowa Central are awarded a full-tuition scholarship with proof of class rank and grade point average (GPA). Salutatorians are awarded $3,000 and academic scholarships of $800 are awarded to high school graduates with a 3.75 or above GPA and $600 for graduates who attained a 3.74-3.25 GPA. Housing scholarships are available to resident students in the amount of $1,000 for valedictorians, $800 for salutatorians, $400 for students with a 3.75 or above GPA and $300 for students with a GPA of 3.74-3.25. Housing and academic scholarships are renewable for a second year if students meet the requirements.

More than 40 external scholarships are also available for traditional and non-traditional students.Links to the scholarships with application requirements and application forms can be viewed on the Financial Aid Department website at www.iowacentral.edu/ financial_aid/external_scholarships.asp

Enrollment for the fall 2023 semester at Iowa Central begins on February 20. For more information on Iowa Central, to apply and enroll, or schedule a campus visit contact the Iowa Central Admissions Department or schedule a visit online via the Iowa Central Admissions website at https://www.iowacentral.edu/admissions/visit.asp

Future Ready Last-Dollar

Scholarship Eligible Programs at Iowa Central

Associate of Applied Science (2 year) Programs

• Agriculture Business

• Agriculture Studies

• Agronomy

• Animal Science

• Associate Degree Nursing

• Automotive Collision Technology

• Automotive Technology

• Computer Integrated Fabrication Technology

• Computer Networking Technology

• Criminal Justice

• Dental Hygiene

• Digital Media Production

Diploma (1 year) Programs

• Automotive Collision Technology

• Carpentry

• Computer Repair

• Criminal Justice

• Electrical Apprenticeship

• Engineering & Design Technology

• Industrial Machinist

• Diesel Technology

• Electrical/Mechanical Technician

• Electrical Technologies

• Engineering & Design Technology

• Heating and Air Conditioning Technology

• Medical Assistant

• Medical Lab Technician

• Radiology Technology

• Securing Information Technology

• Web Technology

• Industrial Mechanic

• Medical Assistant

• Practical Nursing

• Web Technology

• Welding Technology

JAM THE GYM VISIT DAY IS SET FOR FEBRUARY 4

High School juniors and seniors and their parents and guardians are invited to come experience the many opportunities Iowa Central has to offer at the annual “Jam the Gym” Visit Day on Saturday February 4.

The day will begin with check-in and breakfast at 8:30 a.m. and visit day activities will begin at 9 a.m. and will include academic sessions, parent sessions, student sessions, campus tours, entertainment and prize drawings.

“Jam The Gym” is Iowa Central’s largest visit day of the year and is an op portunity for students to come visit on a weekend and get the full college life experience. Campus visitors will be able to meet and interact with faculty, staff, coaches and activity directors as well as experience a free lunch in the Triton Café. Following lunch, students will have the option to stay and attend the Iowa Central men’s and women’s basketball games vs DMACC in Hodges Fieldhouse at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Prize drawings will take place throughout the afternoon with drawings for two full tuition scholarship drawings at half time of the basketball games.

For more information or to register for “Jam the Gym online visit www.iowacentral.edu or contact kellogg@iowacentral.edu Registration closes on Friday

Summer Menu Weds, Thurs, Fri Nights

5 Course Meal Served Wednesday through Friday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. $30 Reservations are not required, but always appreciated

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Willow Ridge Golf Course and Restaurant 1788 Madison Ave. • Ford Dodge, IA • 515-576-5711

Go to our website www.willowridgegolf.com for upcoming menu

Lynsey

Simpson

tRIBBON

tRIBBON

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Sioux City

Congratulations to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Sioux City on their ribbon cutting earlier this week, celebrating their new location at 1414 Central Ave.

Catholic Charities empowers and strengthens all individuals and families, through charity, advocacy and mental health services that are inspired by Christ’s love and compassion.

WORRIED ABOUT INFLATION? CONSIDER THESE MOVES

As you know, inflation was big news throughout 2022. But will it continue in 2023? And looking even further ahead, how should you account for inflation in your long-term plans?

In regard to the first question, many experts predict that inflation will cool off this year, though there are no guarantees. The high inflation of last year is thought to have been caused by some unusual factors, such as a spike in the demand for consumer goods as the world came out of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to supply chain issues. Also, the war in Ukraine drove up oil prices, increasing the cost of manufacturing and shipping and driving up the price of wheat and other commodities.

In any case, last year reminded us that inflation needs to be reckoned with as you work toward your financial goals. But how you respond to inflation will depend somewhat on your stage of life. So, here are some suggestions to consider:

If you’re still working …

Contribute more to your retirement plans. If you can afford to put more money away in your IRA and 401(k), you may want to do so. The more resources you’ll eventually have available in retirement, the better protected you are against the rising cost of living.

Adjust your portfolio objectives with your financial professional. Using tools such as “hypothetical” illustrations, a financial professional can show you some different paths you might take with your investments, given different rates of inflation. So, for example, if you feel that inflation may be higher for a longer period than you once thought, you could request a hypothetical showing how you might need to adjust your investment mix to achieve your longterm goals, given your risk tolerance and time horizon.

If you’re already retired …

Consider part-time work or consulting. Once you retire from your career, it doesn’t mean you can never do any paid work again. If you’ve accumulated years of experience and expertise, you could use your skills as a consultant. Also, many parttime jobs are available for retirees. With the added income from employment, you may be able to delay taking withdrawals from your retirement accounts and other investments, possibly extending their longevity. (Once you turn 72, though, you will need to begin taking money from your 401(k) and traditional IRA.)

Delay taking Social Security. You can begin taking Social Security when you’re 62, but your monthly checks will be substantially bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which will likely be between 66 and 67. (You could even wait until 70, at which point your monthly benefits will max out.) Of course, the ability to delay taking Social Security depends on whether you can afford it, but it may be possible if you work longer than you once planned or if you work part time in retirement. But even if you do need to take Social Security before your full retirement age, your payments will be adjusted annually for inflation — in fact, for 2023, benefit checks will rise 8.7% over 2022.

We’ll always have to deal with some level of inflation — so it’s a good idea to be prepared.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.