Terry Christensen PUBLISHER tchristensen@messengernews.net
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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 2024. 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.
At the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, our mission is clear: “Unifying and coordinating accountable economic and community development to enhance the quality of life in the Fort Dodge region.” As we strive to fulfill this mission, it is crucial to address the evolving challenges and opportunities that impact our community’s growth and well-being.
Last fall, our board of directors engaged in a strategic planning session and identified public safety as a priority for our organization. Ensuring a safe community is essential for growing and attracting a skilled workforce and encouraging private investment. By investing in public safety, we create a secure environment where businesses can thrive, and families can feel confident in their well-being.
For many years, the City of Fort Dodge had the option to impose a franchise fee but chose not to, as there was no need to charge for something unnecessarily. However, recent changes in state property tax legislation in 2023 have introduced new challenges that affect traditional methods of funding essential programs and services.
Due to these legislative changes, if property values increase beyond the city’s growth threshold set by the state of Iowa, a reduction in the new combined general fund levy will be required. This reduction means collecting less revenue than before, impacting Fort Dodge’s ability to fund the programs and services our community values.
To address these funding challenges, the city has proposed implementing a franchise fee for natural gas and electric services—a fee that many cities across the state have been implementing for years. This fee will enable our community to maintain and improve the quality-of-life services we rely on, with 100% of the revenue allocated to the police department, specifically for the addition of more police officers and community resource officers.
Why does this matter? A safer community with robust public services attracts businesses and private investments, leading to economic growth. This growth can translate into more local job opportunities, potentially higher property values, and an improved local economy that benefits all residents. A wellpoliced, economically vibrant community with quality public services fosters a sense of pride and belonging.
These initiatives lay the foundation for long-term community resilience. A safe, economically stable, and well-serviced community is better equipped to face future challenges, whether they be economic downturns or other crises. Even if you do not directly use all the services or feel the immediate impact of these police additions, they play a crucial role in
shaping the overall health, safety, and prosperity of the community we live in. Your support and understanding of these changes contribute to building a stronger, more vibrant community for all of us.
At the Growth Alliance, as we continue to unify and coordinate efforts to enhance the quality of life in the Fort Dodge region, your support is vital. Let’s work together to create a secure, thriving, and vibrant community for current and future generations. By supporting the franchise fee, we are not only ensuring the safety and security of our community but also fostering its growth and prosperity.
Together, we can make Fort Dodge an even better place to live and work.
Please tell us a little bit about the Fort Dodge Community School District.
The Fort Dodge Community School District (FDCSD) is a dynamic and diverse educational community dedicated to providing quality education to students from preschool through high school. FDCSD encompasses multiple schools, including five elementary buildings, one middle school, and one high school, serving thousands of students. FDCSD is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. With a focus on innovative teaching methods, comprehensive extracurricular programs, and strong community partnerships, the district aims to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world.
As of the current school year, the Fort Dodge Community School District has a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 24:1. The district is proud to serve a diverse student body, with this year’s enrollment number totaling 3,450 students.
When is the first day of school, and what are you most excited about for this school year?
Students will be welcomed back to their buildings for the first day of school on August 28th.
“We are thrilled to kick off the new school year on August 23rd. Our dedicated staff has been working hard to prepare for the return of our students, and we are eager to continue our mission of providing exceptional educational experiences. Living our vision of ‘Everyone belongs, Everyone matters, Everyone thrives’ is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported. Our focus is on ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. By fostering a sense of belonging and emphasizing the importance of every individual’s contribution, we strive to build a community where everyone can reach their full potential. Our goal is not only to educate but to inspire and empower our students to thrive both academically and personally.”
What is something you think the general public should know about Fort Dodge Community School District?
Beyond academic excellence, the district emphasizes the importance of character education, mental health support, and community involvement. FDCSD offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and clubs, to ensure that every student has the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents. The district also values strong partnerships with parents and the broader community, recognizing that collaboration is key to creating a nurturing and effective educational environment.
Please tell us a little bit about Saint Edmond Catholic School.
St. Edmond is a single-site, 3 year-old PS though 12th Grade Catholic School system that focuses on faith-based education. We strive to provide high academic standards while partnering with parents to develop their child’s faith formation. Catholic education exists to aid in the Salvation of Souls by nurturing our students in mind, body and soul. We work to incorporate virtues and discipleship throughout the entire learning process. Our faculty and staff provide a safe environment where high quality learning can take place. We have many extra-curricular activities that we encourage our students to get involved with to make them a well-rounded individual.
Currently the average student-to-teacher ratio is 18:1. Our PS classrooms have Teacher Associates in the room to assist our youngest learners. We are still accepting students for the upcoming year, but currently have 768 students enrolled for the 2024/2025 school year. This is around 100 more students than last year, so we are thrilled!
When is the first day of school, and what are you most excited about for this school year?
We look forward to welcoming our students back on Friday, August 23. We will have one day of learning followed by our Back to School Bash for students and families on the 24th.
What is something you think the general public should know about your school?
Saint Edmond Catholic School is like a great big family. We encourage our parents to get involved and partner with us to make their student’s school experience as best as possible. We have a whole community of supporters who help to ensure that Catholic education is a possibility for those who wish to attain it. One thing that may surprise people is that over 35% of our students are not Catholic. Students will be exposed to the Catholic faith and participate in daily religion classes and weekly Mass, but it is not a requirement to be a member of our congregation. We welcome all to visit and see if we are the best choice for your family.
“Of all the investments we make as a parents to prepare and protect our family, none is greater than the investment in their education and their Christian faith. We choose to invest in a Catholic education for our children for many reasons, but the main one is we want our children’s formative years to be spent in a place where prayer is accepted, abundant, unrestricted and encouraged. We want them to have not only an academic education, but a faith education that is fully integrated in their everyday lives. We want them to have a home away from home in a place that will help keep them grounded, humble and merciful to others.
The faculty at St. Edmond have a great love for the students. They truly believe in the importance of including Christ in the classroom. Their love for our school is shown in their dedication and commitment to shaping the hearts and minds of our youth.
-Kate Stucky Director of Operations and Finance
In today’s rapidly evolving urban landscape, ensuring public safety is critical to fostering a thriving community. The Case for 8 initiative, aimed at adding eight additional police officers to our force, represents a strategic investment in both safety and economic prosperity. By exploring the economic benefits of this initiative, we can gain a better understanding of how increasing our police presence not only strengthens community safety but also stimulates economic growth and stability.
One of the most direct economic impacts of increasing the numbers within the Fort Dodge Police Department is the anticipated long-term reduction in crime rates. Studies consistently show that, over time, higher police presence correlates with lower crime rates. This is particularly relevant in areas struggling with property crimes and violent offenses. By adding eight officers, we can expect a more effective response to incidents and a proactive approach to crime prevention. This reduction in crime not only improves the quality of life for residents but also enhances economic stability.
Lower crime rates result in reduced costs for law enforcement, healthcare, and criminal justice proceedings. Additionally, businesses and property owners suffer fewer losses
due to theft or vandalism, and taxpayers bear a lighter burden. The economic savings from decreased crime can then be invested in other areas, such as community development projects and infrastructure improvements.
A safer community directly translates to a more attractive environment for local businesses. When crime rates are low, businesses are more likely to invest and expand in Fort Dodge, knowing they will be operating in a secure environment. Increased police presence helps build confidence among business owners and potential investors, creating a more inviting atmosphere for economic activity.
In addition, businesses may benefit from decreased insurance premiums due to lower crime rates. Insurers will often offer reduced rates for businesses located in safer areas, resulting in considerable savings for local entrepreneurs. These cost savings can be reinvested into the business, promoting growth and generating new job opportunities.
Property values are another area where the impact of increased police presence is evident. Higher crime rates can negatively affect property values, as potential buyers are deterred by concerns over safety. By investing in the Fort Dodge Police Department, we signal our commitment to maintaining a secure environment, which can have a positive effect on property values.
As property values rise, Fort Dodge homeowners benefit from increased equity, and the local tax base expands. This additional revenue can then be used to fund community projects, support local services, and further enhance the quality of life in our area. The ripple effect of higher property values extends to various sectors, including retail, real estate, and local government finances.
A well-resourced police force fosters stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community. Increased visibility of police officers can lead to more effective community policing, where officers engage with residents, address concerns, and build trust. This trust is crucial for effective crime prevention and intervention.
When community members feel safe and supported, they are more likely to participate in local events, support community initiatives, and engage in civic activities. This heightened engagement contributes to a more vibrant and cohesive community, which in turn supports local economic growth. Engaged residents are more likely to support local businesses, volunteer for community programs, and contribute to a positive economic environment.
The cumulative effect of these factors creates a positive feedback loop. As the community becomes safer and more economically vibrant, it attracts even more investment and business activity, further enhancing the local economy. This growth benefits everyone—from local entrepreneurs to large investors—and contributes to a thriving, resilient community.
The economic benefits of a safer community extend far beyond crime reduction. For both existing and new businesses in Fort Dodge, a lower crime rate creates a more favorable economic environment. When a community is perceived as safe, it attracts more business activity and investment.
Current businesses see immediate benefits as reduced crime lowers operational risks and potential losses. With fewer incidents of theft or vandalism, these businesses can operate more efficiently and predictably, leading to increased profitability. This stability encourages local business owners to invest in expanding their operations, hiring additional staff, and improving their facilities.
For new businesses considering Fort Dodge as a location, a safer community is a significant draw. Entrepreneurs and investors prioritize safety when choosing where to establish their ventures. A reduction in crime makes Fort Dodge a more attractive destination for new businesses, leading to increased competition, innovation, and job creation.
Additionally, a safe community boosts consumer confidence. Residents are more likely to spend money locally if they feel secure, which benefits businesses ranging from retail stores to restaurants and service providers. This increased consumer spending stimulates economic growth and can lead to the emergence of new business opportunities.
The Case for 8 initiative is more than just a proposal for increasing the number of officers with the Fort Dodge Police Department; it is a strategic investment in the safety, stability, and economic prosperity of our community. By reducing crime rates, boosting business confidence, enhancing property values, strengthening community trust, and creating jobs, the addition of eight police officers will yield significant economic benefits for ALL of Fort Dodge.
Investing in our police force is an investment in the overall health of our community. Residents and businesses can anticipate not only a safer environment but also a more vibrant and economically robust community. The benefits of this initiative are far-reaching, providing a foundation for continued growth and success in our area.
On September 10, 2024, Fort Dodge will hold a special election to vote on the Case for 8 initiative, a proposed 5% franchise fee for gas and electric services provided by MidAmerican Energy. This fee would apply to both gas and electric customers in Fort Dodge. Absentee ballots for this election will be available through the Webster County Auditor’s Office beginning August 21, 2024. You can learn more about the Case for 8 at a Town Hall meeting scheduled on September 3, 2024, starting at 6:30 pm, in City Council Chambers.
Making life better for animals makes life better. Elanco Animal Health Incorporated (NYSE: ELAN) is an independent global animal health leader with a unique ability to reach the world’s animals through a diverse, durable product portfolio sold in more than 90 countries. With a deep 70-year history, we are at the forefront of innovation serving veterinarians, farmers, pet owners and the animals in their care. Our corporate vision, “Food and Companionship Enriching Life,” connects the animal health outcomes we support to the positive environmental, social and economic impact we create. Our products and services help veterinarians and pet owners improve care for pets and enable farmers to raise healthier livestock more sustainably — creating value for farmers, pet owners, veterinarians, community stakeholders and our shareholders.
Elanco’s Fort Dodge, Iowa manufacturing and quality site was established in 1912 and has over 400 employees. This site is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and produces animal vaccines for livestock and companion animals.
Age: 11 • Hometown: Lehigh, IA • Instrument: Singing
concerts. It makes me feel special to be able to do that. Another moment that I will remember forever is having 20 family members supporting me at my Fourth of July performance.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is getting invited to the Bill Riley Talent Show at the Iowa State Fair by performing
I look up to my Momma. She was a performer when she all of my dreams.
in your life in 25
I see myself having a successful signing career, married and teaching my children to perform.
If you could take a trip anywhere in the world,
I would love to go to Hawaii. I love their culture,
Walk us through a day in the life of Lydia. It’s currently summer, so I sleep in till around 8:00, wake up and find some breakfast. Then I watch TV and play some games with my brothers outside. We like to swim, jump on the trampoline and swing. I like to annoy my like to annoy me. Then we just chill time for dinner. Then I get ready for bed.
The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance
AUGUST 2024
24 North 9th Street, Suite A Fort Dodge, IA 50501
Phone 515-955-5500 Fax 515-955-3245 www.greaterfortdodge.com
Astra Ferris CEO astra@greaterfortdodge.com
Jill Nelson
Community Development Director jill@greaterfortdodge.com
Skyla Porter
Marketing Specialist skyla@greaterfortdodge.com
Emily Ayres Operations Coordinator emily@greaterfortdodge.com
Jefferson Fosbender Economic Development Director jefferson@greaterfortdodge.com
Kamisha Mosley
Administrative Assistant kamisha@greaterfortdodge.com
“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.”
Invenergy is a leading privately-held global developer and operator of sustainable energy solutions, focusing on renewable energy projects including wind, solar, and natural gas power generation, as well as energy storage and transmission.
Marker 126 is a multifaceted travel center located at mile marker 126 on HWY 20, offering a range of amenities including a restaurant, coffee shop, boutique, convenience store, and fuel station.
Martin Marietta is a leading American supplier of building materials, including aggregates, cement, readymixed concrete, and asphalt, operating across 28 states, Canada, and the Bahamas.
Bemrich Electric celebrated 40 years! Thank you for being a board member of our organi
Tranquility Touch Massage celebrated its membership with us!
First Baptist Church - The SALT Center celebrated its membership with us Thank you for being a member!
Smitty’s Lawn • Landscape • Garden celebrated 20 years and the opening of their floral shop!
Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics celebrated their remodel and grand re-opening!
Foot & Ankle Center of Iowa celebrated their membership and the opening of their Fort Dodge location!
August 21 | 4:00 PM 24 North 9th Street Open House 3:00-4:30 PM Celebrating Membership
August 27 | 4:30 PM 721 South 25th Street New Ownership/Name
August 22 | 4:00 PM 1584 Paragon Ave New Wine Production Facility
September 10| 4:00 PM 2339 Poplar Ave, Duncombe, IA New Member
United Way of Greater Fort Dodge is working hard to help homeless children in our community. Inflation is difficult to deal with for most families, but it is devastating for low-income families. In Webster County, the data shows that food costs have risen 21% to 30% since 2019, and gas prices are up 65% and rental rates for houses and apartments have increased by 31.9%.
Because of this, eviction rates have increased dramatically. The Des Moines Register reports housing evictions statewide increased nearly seventy-five percent (75%). Other national statistics indicate the number of homeless families has increased forty to fifty percent (40% to 50%) in the past two years. Fort Dodge is no exception. The actual number of homeless women and children in the greater Fort Dodge area is not known, but the number of homeless families or families that are close to eviction and are just one bill away from becoming homeless is in the hundreds.
In Iowa, single-parent families, headed by mothers with children, make up the largest group of people who are homeless, and this number is increasing. A statewide homeless study shows that families with children make up 61% of the total homeless population in Iowa. A study by the US Federal Reserve shows that 42.9% of households with children in Webster County are headed by a single parent. Most homeless families don’t sleep under bridges. Some sleep in their cars and many others move from one friend’s home or apartment to another, sleeping on couches or on floors.
There is no doubt that family homelessness in the U.S., in Iowa and in Fort Dodge is on the rise at an alarming rate. And the ever-tightening supply of affordable housing in our community makes the homelessness problem even greater. National housing statistics show that Iowa ranks in the Top 10 of all the states in the nation for the highest increase in rental rates in the past two years.
It is estimated that 90% of families experiencing homelessness are female-headed and close to half of all homeless children are under the age of eight. The typical homeless family is comprised of a mother in her late twenties or early thirties with two to three children. These young families are often forced to spend fifty percent or more of their monthly incoming on rent. This burden means they will have to sacrifice other items such as food, utilities, clothing or medicine.
As one can imagine, the experience of being homeless is traumatic for children. The instability of having to sleep in a different place every night places a tremendous amount stress on children. Research shows that homeless children often face a constant barrage of stressful and traumatic experiences as they are twice as likely to experience hunger, three times more likely to be physically abused and four times as likely to have delayed development. Homeless children also experience more mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and withdrawal. We also know that when children become homeless, their school attendance drops significantly.
It is unrealistic to think we can end homelessness in Fort Dodge, but there are opportunities to leverage our resources and develop a synergistic approach to attacking the issue that will help reduce the problem, impact lives, use limited resources more efficiently.
United Way in Fort Dodge is focused on helping our youth thrive, especially those that are struggling to overcome major obstacles like poverty and homelessness. United Way funds provide emergency support for homeless families or families that are on the verge of becoming homeless, to help them overcome this horrendous challenge and find affordable housing that will help lead to family stability. Without this support, the children just don’t have a chance.
Citizens interested in helping support our efforts to help families that are homeless or very close to becoming homeless can make donations today. Charitable gifts can be made payable to United Way of Greater Fort Dodge Homeless Fund and mail it to United Way of Greater Fort Dodge, 24 North 9th Street, Suite B, Fort Dodge, IA 50501. You can donate online as well at https://unitedwayfd.org. For more information on United Way of Greater Fort Dodge, please call our office at 515-573-3171.
The Dayton Championship Pro Rodeo, celebrating over 85 years of thrilling rodeo action, stands as a pillar of Central Iowa’s cultural and community life. Originating from humble beginnings on a local farm, the event has grown into a beloved annual tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each Labor Day weekend to the small town of Dayton, Iowa.
The Dayton Rodeo’s journey began 87 years ago when three young cowboys entertained locals with riding tricks and stunts. The first organized rodeo, held on George Porter’s farm, set the stage for what would become a cherished annual event. Over time, the rodeo moved locations, eventually finding a permanent home at a natural amphitheater north of Oak Park. This venue, carved out of a hillside, offers excellent seating and a clear view for thousands of spectators.
The Dayton Rodeo Celebration Committee, composed of volunteers from the Dayton Community Club and the Dayton Wranglers Saddle Club, works tirelessly to enhance the rodeo experience. Recent projects include upgrading seating with new bleachers, improving accessibility with a cement walkway, and constructing state-of-the-art facilities for par-
ticipants and spectators alike. Future plans aim to further enhance seating and ticketing processes, ensuring that the Dayton Rodeo remains a top-tier event.
The Dayton Rodeo is more than just a rodeo; it’s a community celebration. It brings together approximately 10,000 attendees each year, making it one of the most well-attended rodeos in Iowa. The event attracts professional rodeo cowboys and cowgirls from across the United States, competing for over $44,000 in prize money. The rodeo’s success relies heavily on sponsorships from local businesses, whose support is crucial in keeping ticket prices affordable and ensuring the event’s continued growth and success.
As the 87th Annual Labor Day Dayton Championship Pro Rodeo approaches, the Dayton Rodeo Celebration Committee is hard at work preparing for four big performances from August 30 to September 2, 2024. This year’s rodeo promises exciting events with renowned stock contractor Cervi Championship Rodeo Company, announcer Boyd Polhamus, and specialty acts like Cowboy Kenny’s Steel Rodeo.
The Dayton Rodeo offers a unique blend of tradition, community spirit, and top-tier rodeo action. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Dayton Rodeo Celebration Committee and the many volunteers who make it all possible. As the committee gears up to “Fill the Hill” once again, spectators can look forward to an unforgettable experience that continues to honor the legacy of this storied event. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, the Dayton Championship Pro Rodeo is an event not to be missed.
For more information, visit the Dayton Rodeo website (daytonrodeo.com) or contact the Dayton Rodeo Celebration Committee at daytonrodeocc@gmail.com.
The Iowa Central Community College Rodeo team is a force to be reckoned within the world of college rodeo and you can see them in action at the upcoming Triton Stampede Rodeo. The team will saddle up to compete against seventeen other colleges on Friday, October 4th, and Saturday, October 5th. The Rodeo will be held at the Webster County Fair Grounds in Fort Dodge.
The team, which has 44 athletes this year, has a strong tradition of success and has produced numerous champions over the years. At the 2024 Rodeo, spectators can watch two local students showcase their talents in the arena; Morgan Nelson of Fort Dodge and Madeline Teague of Webster City.
Competing in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA), the Iowa Central Community College Rodeo team consistently performs well in regional and national competitions. The team members compete in various events such as bull riding, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and breakaway roping. Iowa Central’s Cash Owens was the Regional Champion in saddle bronc last season, Drew Lind took the individual bareback riding champion spot, and Sage Vance placed 3rd overall in the season for bull riding. In barrel racing, Rachel Werkman placed 3rd and qualified for nationals.
One of the key factors behind the team’s success is the outstanding coaching staff. The coaches at Iowa Central Community College are dedicated to developing the skills of their athletes and helping them
reach their full potential. They provide expert guidance and support to the team members in and out of the arena. “We work hard as a team to stay competitive, including being mentally tough in the arena. There is a lot of pressure when our athletes compete, and they need to be ready for that part of the competition too,” says Bridget Coleman, Head Rodeo Coach.
In addition to their success in the arena, the team members are also known for their academic achievements. Iowa Central Community College strongly emphasizes academic excellence, and the rodeo team is no exception. “The student-athletes are encouraged to excel in their academic pursuits while also pursuing their passion for rodeo,” shares Coleman who was 2023 National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Coach of the Year.
Tickets to see the powerhouse college rodeo team are $10 for adults and $5 for kids and are sold at the gate. Food will be available for purchase from the Iowa Central Culinary students. For the full Rodeo schedule, go to https://www.ictritons.com/sports/rodeo/2024-25/schedule.
Friday, October 4th Saturday, October 5th
Webster County Fair Grounds
Fort Dodge, IA
Tickets: $10 Adults $5 Kids
Tickets sold at the gate
AUGUST 16
Oleson Park Bandshell- Movies Under the Moon: Trolls Band Together, 8:30 p.m.
AUGUST 16-17
Sports Park Raceway- Iowa Motocross Series
AUGUST 17
Stella’s Coffee Bar- Stella’s Summer Market, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
AUGUST 17
Best Western Starlite Village- Author Amber Rodgers Meet and Greet, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
AUGUST 17
Blanden Memorial Art Education Center- Free Art Saturday, 1:30 p.m.
Willow Ridge Golf Course and Restaurant 1788
AUGUST 17
5 Course Meal Served Wednesday through Friday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. $30 Reservations are not required, but always appreciated Go
The Community Orchard- Guitar & Grill-Out with Lone Tree Revival, 6 to 8 p.m.
AUGUST 17-18
The Community Orchard- Annual Flower Festival and Back of the Barn Sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
AUGUST 19
The Sports Page- Prairie Rivers Trail Full Moon Bike Ride with Live Music by Jesse Wilson, 7 p.m.
AUGUST 22
Camp WaNoKi- Fireside Chat: Geocaching, 6 p.m.
AUGUST 23-25
Webster County Fairgrounds- BK Promotions Gun Show
AUGUST 24
Lakeside Golf Course- FDPD Association Golf Tournament, 9 a.m.
AUGUST 24
Amigos- Bikers Against Child Abuse Fun Run, 10:30 a.m. (Ride starts at 12)
AUGUST 24
Soldier Creek Winery- Mimosas and Nathan & Clay Workshop, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
AUGUST 24
Sports Park Raceway- Season Championship (All Classes), Gates open at 5:30 p.m. with races at 7 p.m.
AUGUST 24
The Fort Museum and Frontier Village All Glown Up 18+ Foam Party, 7 p.m.
AUGUST 28
ShinyTop Brewing- Wood Sign Class, 6 p.m.
AUGUST 30
Summer Menu Weds, Thurs, Fri Nights
September 2- Dayton Arena- Dayton Championship Rodeo
Willow Ridge Golf Course and Restaurant 1788 Madison Ave. • Ford Dodge, IA • 515-576-5711
AUGUST 31
The Community Orchard Guitar and Grill-Out with Salty View’s Acoustic Review, 6 to 8 p.m.
I have been performing in various capacities for right around 20 years. I started taking violin lessons when I was 11 years old. That’s when my love for performing began. Throughout my middle school and high school years I played violin in school ensembles and at church. It wasn’t until I was attending Iowa State University for Music Education that I began working my way into the country music scene. That is also when I worked my guitar, keys and vocal abilities up to a level that I felt comfortable performing. During my college years I played fiddle and sang harmony in the Royce Johns Band. I moved back to Denison after graduating college to pursue my teaching career and my own performance life took a back seat for a few years. In the winter of 2022 I came across the opportunity to audition for the female vocalist role in Salty View’s Acoustic Review. I was asked to join the band and made my debut in the spring of 2023. That spring, Renegade Soul evolved. In addition to the band gigs, I have launched my solo performance career in the spring of 2023.
Age:
• Hometown: Denison Instrument: Violin/Fiddle, Guitar, Keys, Mandolin & Voice
I truly enjoy every aspect of performing. Whether it’s singing lead and delivering a favorite song, or adding supplemental elements such as harmony or fiddle to a song in a band setting. Making music and watching an audience take it in
The most challenging part of performing live is reading the crowd and delivering a performance that speaks to them. My primary goal is to tailor my performances to the audience in front of me. Figuring out exactly what a specific crowd wants to hear on the fly can be challenging at times.
By far my most memorable gig was opening for Josh Turner at the Downtown Country Jam in Fort Dodge with Renegade Soul last September. The crowd was amazing and we had the opportunity to spend time with Josh’s bandmates throughout the day. The whole experience was out of this world. A close second was my first solo show last year that
took place at Shiny Top Brewing in Fort Dodge. I had such a wonderful group of supporters come out, including other members of the Fort Dodge music scene. The support that fellow musicians show other musicians in the Iowa Music Scene is really something special.
My sound is a mix of traditional and contemporary country with a hint of rock. Heavily influenced by the likes of Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert and Alison Krauss.
Most of my life revolves around music, whether I am teaching, performing, leading worship at my church or working on a musical project. But if I am not working on music, you will probably catch me working on a Real Estate Transaction for a client, doing a project in my house or spending time with friends and family.
I started taking violin lessons at the age of 11. A few years later I started taking piano lessons. Throughout my highschool years I played violin in school musicals and on the worship team at my church.
You
When you invest, you’ll find that knowledge is power. The more you know about your investment choices, and who is offering them, the better prepared you’ll be to make good decisions. And this diligence can also help protect you against investment scams.
How widespread is this activity? Consider this: Investment fraud losses totaled more than $4.5 billion in 2023, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report.
Here are some common types of scams:
Cryptocurrency – Not all cryptocurrency offers are scams, but many are. The scammers will contact you via social media, claiming they’ve made a lot of money in crypto and are willing to help you do the same. They may direct you to a website or app to invest, but the “company” taking your money may not even exist, and, after taking your money, may disappear.
Investment programs – These programs claim to have “proven” strategies that can enable you to get rich by investing in financial products. But these strategies are dubious at best and can cost you thousands of dollars that could otherwise go into an investment plan based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon.
Real estate – Typically, a real estate scam tries to get you to invest in a “world-class” or “luxury” property development, but
these properties may take years to build, if they’re built at all. Also, various real estate “seminars” claim they can teach you how to get wealthy by buying and selling real estate, but these programs are expensive and usually worthless.
Gold and other precious metals –Scammers who call themselves “rare coins” merchants may try to sell you gold coins, bullion or other types of precious metals, claiming that these assets will always go up in value (which isn’t true) and that “now is the best time to act.” You can find legitimate ways to invest in precious metals, possibly through mutual funds, but you’ll need to determine whether these assets can be an appropriate part of your investment portfolio.
So, how can you avoid these scams? Here ae some suggestions from the Federal Trade Commission:
Don’t be pushed into snap decisions. Scammers will pressure you to act quickly because “space is limited” in an investment offering or a “special deal” won’t last long. If someone won’t give you time to consider an offer, it’s not worth considering.
Be suspicious of “risk-free” claims. All investments carry risk, and no variable investments can claim to provide “guaranteed returns.” If an individual or organization downplays the risk of an investment and doesn’t want to provide risk disclosures, just walk away.
Ask about licensing or registration. Legitimate investment professionals must be registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and be licensed by your state’s securities regulator before they can sell you any investment product. You can check the status of an individual or firm by using FINRA’s BrokerCheck tool at brokercheck.fina.org. Do some research. You can search online for the name of the company or individual offering you an investment opportunity. By entering terms such as “review,” “scam,” “fraud” or “complaint,” you may well find that other people have experienced problems or been victimized.
To achieve your financial goals, you’ll likely need to invest for decades — so, be wary of scammers who claim to offer a shortcut to success.
