Danielle Michalski, CLTP General Manager
Abby Dorsey, CLTP Assistant Manager
Jennifer Brown, CLTP Abstractor
Hannah Campbell, CLTP Abstractor
Pam Haack, CLTP Abstractor
business CONNECTION
Terry Christensen PUBLISHER tchristensen@messengernews.net
Bill Shea EDITOR bshea@messengernews.net
Leanne Darr MARKETING DIRECTOR ldarr@messengernews.net
Jody Kayser SALES MANAGER jkayser@messengernews.net
Nick Manwarren GRAPHIC DESIGNER nmanwarren@messengernews.net
Jessica Nemechek SALES CONSULTANT jnemechek@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 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.
SHOP LOCAL THIS 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON: INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY
With the holiday season around the corner, it’s easy to get swept into the convenience of online shopping—trust me, we’ve all been there. The demands of family, work, and packed to-do lists can push us toward quick solutions when it comes to holiday gifts. But this season, I encourage you to pause and consider the impact of shopping local. Every dollar spent at our local neighborhood shops is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in our shared community.
For example, revenue from local businesses goes directly back into the community, supporting essential services like street and infrastructure improvements. When you shop at a local business, you’re not only helping sustain a local dream, you’re fueling a ripple effect that strengthens the entire region we call home.
Here are five reminders on why “shopping small” matters this holiday season:
1. One-of-a-Kind Gifts – Our local shops often carry unique, hand-selected items you won’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s a handcrafted necklace, original artwork, or a gift card for a local experience, shopping local means finding something special that your loved ones will truly cherish.
2. Boosting Our Local Economy –Dollars spent locally are more likely to stay in our community, supporting local jobs, families, and businesses. Choosing to buy local is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to the economic health of our region.
3. Supporting Innovation & Entrepreneurship
– Local businesses are the heart of creativity and entrepreneurship, bringing fresh ideas and new products to our area first. When you support these businesses, you’re fostering a culture of innovation that makes our community more vibrant and resilient.
4. Environmental Impact – Shopping local often means shorter travel distances for products, leading to fewer emissions and a lower environmental impact. This holiday season, choosing nearby shops is an easy step toward sustainability.
5. Preserving Community Character – Local businesses are more than just shops; they reflect the character and culture of our community. They’re gathering spots, meeting places, and venues for shared experiences, all of which contribute to the unique sense of belonging we feel and directly impacts our quality of life.
So, as you start your holiday shopping, consider the lasting impact of choosing local. It’s more than just gift-giving, it’s supporting a region and local economy that you care about, an investment that will continue to benefit us all long after the season is over.
WITH Q&A
MARY GREEN-WARNSTADT MAIN STREET FORT DODGE
Provide some background information about Main Street Fort Dodge and its mission?
The Downtown Fort Dodge Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (SSMID) became a Main Street Iowa district in 2017. Our mission is “Working to reclaim the downtown’s historical purpose and prosperity by revitalizing the culture and character of its original merchant district.”
Affiliated with Main Street Iowa and Main Street America, the district encompasses 33 blocks, making Main Street Fort Dodge the 3rd largest district in the state.
Mary Green-Warnstadt
WITH MARY GREEN-WARNSTADT - MAIN STREET FORT DODGE
What specific events or activities are planned to promote shop small and shop local?
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, consumers spend an estimated $184 billion on Small Business Saturday nationwide. In Fort Dodge, Small Business Saturday is one of the biggest sales days for our downtown merchants. Green State Credit Union and Main Street Fort Dodge will again be sponsoring the “Merry Money” Giveaway on Saturday, November 30. The first 40 shoppers arriving at 10 a.m. at Green State’s 1207 Central Avenue location will receive a $25 gift certificate to spend at any participating downtown business all Saturday.
Other returning events in 2025 are Sister Saturday in February and Mother’s Day Downtown in May.
Why is shopping locally important during the holiday season?
Shopping locally helps you find unique quality gifts while supporting small businesses. The dollars spent in downtown Fort Dodge stay locally in our area. Approximately 50 percent of employees nationally work for a small business.
In our downtown, many merchants give back to the community by assisting with the Main Street Fort Dodge Promotion Team. This group hosts free family-oriented activities like the upcoming Santa Family Fun Night on December 2, and the Trick or Treat event in October.
Are there incentives, like discounts, gift cards, or loyalty programs, that make shopping locally even more rewarding?
Yes, our holiday shopping punch cards are available at participating businesses on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. Every $10 spent equals one punch on the card. After five punches, you can turn in your punch card for a chance to win a gift basket.
How can the community get involved in supporting these local initiatives?
Event sponsors, monetary donations, and in-kind donations of prizes or gift basket items are always needed. In addition, we are actively looking for volunteers to help plan and execute our Main Street Fort Dodge initiatives. Besides our Promotions Team, we also have teams focused on Economic Vitality, Design, and Organization. Our volunteers play a crucial role in revitalizing our downtown and fostering a vibrant community.
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
In 2006, when Tim and Kellie Guderian won the Iowa Powerball Jackpot, they understood their lives would change forever. What Fort Dodge did not anticipate was the couple’s commitment to using their newfound wealth to positively impact their community. From the beginning, Tim and Kellie were resolute in their decision to share their fortune, stating, “It’s the right thing to do.”
Since launching Fort Frenzy in 2013, their first business venture, the Guderian family—alongside relatives Todd and Joyce McCubbin—have infused their entrepreneurial spirit into enhancing entertainment for the residents of Fort Dodge. Under the umbrella of TKG Holdings, they oversee Fort Frenzy, Godfather’s Pizza, and Northland Travel.
Fort Frenzy is a dynamic family fun center dedicated to being experts in all things fun. With both indoor and outdoor attractions, a large arcade and the versatile Cardiff Event Center, Fort Frenzy has become a cherished venue for family outings, school groups, and community events, providing countless lasting memories. The Cardiff Event Center hosts everything from wedding receptions to fundraisers and concerts, all benefiting from a recent remodel.
In April 2022, TKG Holdings revitalized a beloved local staple by reintroducing Godfather’s Pizza onsite at Fort Frenzy. This establishment offers dine-in, delivery, catering, online ordering, and a drive-thru window, featuring the same cherished recipes. The addition has quickly become a favorite for birthdays and celebrations, especially during the holidays when families gather to enjoy time at the fun center.
Inspired by Kellie’s passion for travel, TKG Holdings acquired Northland Travel, a full-service travel agency specializing in group tours and individual travel. Located in Friendship Haven, their friendly and experienced guides are dedicated to delivering unforgettable adventures, meticulously planning every detail to ensure each vacation is not just a trip, but a remarkable journey filled with treasured memories.
Through their businesses, Tim, Kellie, Todd, and Joyce continue to show their strong devotion to the Fort Dodge community and remain committed to providing engaging entertainment and memorable experiences. With a focus on the future, they aim to expand their services and explore new ways to enhance local events and foster connections among families and visitors.
City Connect FORT DODGE
GET INVOLVED IN FORT DODGE: SERVE ON A CITY BOARD OR COMMISSION!
Fort Dodge is a city that thrives when its residents get involved, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the community. One way to make a meaningful impact and help shape our city’s future is by joining one of our boards or commissions. The City of Fort Dodge relies on a wide range of boards and commissions to provide guidance, make recommendations, and take actions on important issues that affect our community. From arts and culture to infrastructure and economic development, there’s a place for everyone to share their passion and expertise.
WHY GET INVOLVED?
1. Make a Difference: By joining a board or commission, you can have a direct influence on the policies, programs, and projects that shape Fort Dodge. Your insights can help solve challenges, address local issues, and promote improvements that benefit everyone.
2. Learn and Grow: Serving on a board or commission provides a unique opportunity to expand your understanding of how city government works. You’ll learn about topics like planning, zoning, budgeting, and public safety—all while building new skills in areas such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
3. Strengthen the Community: When you participate in city governance, you’re not just helping to shape the city’s futureyou’re also building stronger connections with your neighbors, city staff, and other residents. Working together, we can make Fort Dodge an even better place to live, work, and play.
TYPES OF BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Fort Dodge offers a variety of boards and commissions to suit different interests, and each plays a vital role in guiding city policies and programs. Here are a few examples:
Blanden Memorial Board of Trustees: Passionate about art? The Blanden Museum Board of Trustees handles trusts and donations as well as acquiring, caring for, and interpreting and exhibiting works of art to the public on a regular basis. This is an excellent opportunity for those who want to make art and culture more accessible and impactful for residents and visitors alike.
Historic Preservation Commission: Help protect and celebrate our city’s historic sites and buildings by joining this commission. Members contribute to the preservation of Fort Dodge’s rich history, maintaining its unique character for generations to come.
Human Rights Commission: Dedicated to promoting equal rights and preventing discrimination, this commission works to ensure that Fort Dodge is an inclusive and welcoming community for all.
Parks & Recreation Commission: Interested in improving parks, green spaces, and recreational activities? This commission guides the development of our parks and recreational programs, promoting health, well-being, and community engagement.
Planning & Zoning Commission: Help shape Fort Dodge’s growth and development by advising on land use, zoning, and city planning issues. This commission ensures that our city’s development aligns with community needs and long-term goals.
These are just a few examples—Fort Dodge offers many other boards and commissions, including those focused on economic development, public safety, and environmental sustainability. A full list can be found on the City’s website at https://www.fortdodgeiowa.org/boards/.
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to make a difference in Fort Dodge, applying is simple. Most boards and commissions have an open application process and welcome new members with diverse perspectives and experiences. You’ll find application details, eligibility requirements, and contact information on the City’s Boards and Commissions page, https://www.fortdodgeiowa.org/boards/. Keep in mind that some boards require special qualifications or experience, while others simply ask for your time, passion, and commitment to our community.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need any special qualifications?
For most boards and commissions, the main qualification is a passion for serving the community. Some may require specific expertise or experience, but many simply look for residents who are eager to make a positive impact.
How much time is required?
Time commitments vary, depending on the board or commission. Typically, meetings are held monthly, and additional time may be needed for research, discussions, or projects. Details are available on the application page.
Is there an age requirement?
Most boards and commissions require members to be at least 18 years old, though a few accept younger members. Check the specific board or commission requirements for more details.
JOIN US IN SHAPING FORT DODGE!
When residents participate in local governance, everyone benefits. By volunteering on a board or commission, you’re not only helping our city thrive, but you’re also setting a powerful example of civic responsibility. Fort Dodge is a community of engaged, thoughtful individuals—let’s continue building a brighter future together. Whether you’re passionate about history, parks, economic development, or social issues, there’s a place for you to contribute.
Take the first step today - visit our boards and commissions page to learn more, find the right fit, and apply.
shiningstar
Drake Wertz
Age: 17
Grade/School: Senior at Fort Dodge Senior High • Hometown: Fort Dodge
When was your first performance on stage?
Do you remember how you were feeling?
My first performance on stage was my 7th grade musical, Wizard of Oz. It was scary being on stage for the first time but I really enjoyed it.
What do you most enjoy about performing?
Being able to express myself and it’s very fun because I get to be with my friends, and I get to learn new things
What was your first role? And, what has been your most favorite role to play?
My first ever role was the doctor in my 8th grade musical
The Rockin’ Tale of Snow White, and my favorite role was Alex the Lion in Madagascar Jr.
What is the most challenging part about performing?
Having to get in front of tons of people, but after a while it becomes normal.
Who is your favorite musician/performer and why?
Nick Cartell, because he is a great singer and great actor and does an amazing job at playing Jean Valjean in Les Misérables.
If you could attend any concert, who would you see and why?
I would want to see Wicked on Broadway because it is such a good musical.
Do you plan to be involved in music after high school? If so, in what ways?
I plan to be in choir and participate in musicals and plays
What activities are you involved in at school and in the community?
I’m in Band, Choir, Dodger Senate, Performers Club, Spring Musical, Fall Play, Speech, Green Team, and NHS.
The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance
NOVEMBER 2024
24 North 9th Street, Suite A Fort Dodge, IA 50501
Phone 515-955-5500 Fax 515-955-3245 www.greaterfortdodge.com
STAFF
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
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.”
NOvember 19 | 12:00 PM
MATT COSGROVE RIVER’S EDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
$20 - INCLUDES LUNCH
NEWMembers
Bickford Realty is Fort Dodge’s local family-owned and operated real estate office. Helping clients navigate the buying and selling process since 1977 with honesty, integrity, and dedication to providing top-tier service. Here at Bickford, we are a full-service real estate team that provides both traditional and more modern marketing and sales approach to help you accomplish your real estate goals!
Healing Restorative Touch
Olivia Jensen L.M.T
Olivia Jensen is a licensed massage therapist who graduated from PCI Academy in August 2024. She offers a variety of massage services, including Therapeutic, Swedish, Prenatal, and Hot Stone massages, as well as cupping and facial cupping. Olivia is passionate about helping people feel better and alleviating the tension that causes pain.
Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to Elderbridge Agency on Aging on their ribbon cutting and celebrating 50 years of service. The agency aims to advocate for and empower older adults, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities to pursue independent, healthy lives.
Congratulations to DEV Partners on your ribbon cutting, marking the completion of the stunning 2nd Ave Rowhomes! These newly developed rowhomes at 910/920 2nd Ave S are a wonderful addition to Fort Dodge's vibrant community.
p n of the trail connecting Fort Dodge to Badger with a ribbon cutting. This trail is now the fourth largest in the state of Iowa. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making this possible!
Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to Shoe Sensation of Fort Dodge IA on their ribbon cutting! Their new location is open in the new Corridor Plaza at 2818 3rd Ave South!
Congratulations to Healing Restorative Touch on your ribbon cutting. Olivia Jensen is a licensed massage therapist who offers various massage services, including Therapeutic, Swedish, Prenatal, and Hot Stone massages, as well as cupping and facial cuppi ng. Olivia is passionate about helping people feel better and alleviating the tension that causes pain.
County Connect
Webster COUNTY UPDATES
Webster County Board of Supervisors named a new chief medical examiner.
Dr. Chris Carzoli, who has previously served as deputy medical examiner since January 2024, has been named to the chief role.
Dr. Dan Cole had served as chief medical examiner for nearly 50 years before his death last month.
Carzoli is an emergency medicine specialist at UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge, where he has been employed since June 2015.
CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS IN WEBSTER COUNTY
Gowrie has a festive lineup of holiday events, including Pink Friday, Small Business Saturday, a 5K Turkey Trot, and a Firemen Fish Fry. December’s celebrations continue with Santa visits, holiday open houses, a lighted parade, and a community tree lighting. Don’t miss out on the holiday fun—check out the full event list by scanning the QR Code.
All you can eat Pancakes, Sausage, eggs, Biscuits and Gravy! Santa will be bringing along a toy for all of the kiddos also! $5 each with $20 max per family!
Iowa Central Community College
College Connect
Iowa Central Hosts Career Discovery Days for High School Students
If your high school student is curious about what career is right for them, Iowa Central is providing a number of opportunities to help shed light on different options. The college is hosting Career Discovery Days on the Fort Dodge Campus and high school students from the nine-county region are encouraged to attend. Registration is free.
The list of options ranges from theater to transportation, and Counselor to carpenter among many others. The face-to-face events will begin at 9:00 AM and wrap up at 1:00 PM. To register, simply scan the QR code below.
If you have questions, please reach out to Sara Scharf at scharf@iowacentral.edu
DISCOVERY DAYS CAREER
EDUCATION & HUMAN SERVICES
Coaching (All levels and types of coaches) - Counseling/Social Work - Teaching - Government & Public Administration
PUBLIC SAFETY
Firefighting - Law Enforcement - Paramedic/EMT
HEALTHCARE – TRACK 1
Dental Hygienist/Assistant - Medical Assistant - Nursing
HEALTHCARE – TRACK 2
Medical Lab Technician - Nursing - Radiology Technician/Ultrasound Technician
BUSINESS & ACCOUNTING
Accounting - Business Administration - Management
COMPUTER NETWORKING
Computer Network - Cyber Security - Computer Science
STEM – SCIENCE
Biology - Chemistry - Conservationist - Veterinary
STEM – MATH
Engineering - Math - Physics
STEM – CAD/ROBOTICS
CAD (EDT) - Robotics
CULINARY
MUSIC & THEATER
Instrumental - Theater - Vocal
DIGITAL & VISUAL ARTS
AGRICULTURE/TURF GRASS
Agronomy - Animal Science - Landscape Design/Turf Grass
BUILDING TRADES
Carpentry - Electrical - HVAC - Plumbing MANUFACTURING
Machinist - Industrial Maintenance - Welding
Career Discovery Days will be held at Iowa Central’s main campus in Fort Dodge from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM.
Students will choose one track within the day. For questions or more information, please contact the CCTC at your high school or scharf@iowacentral.edu.
Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY
UNITED WAY IS HELPING SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES
Parenting can be one of the toughest jobs to have. But for a single parent, the difficulty of parenting increases exponentially. Today, 42 percent of households with dependent children in Fort Dodge are single parent households. And ninety (90) percent of them are headed by the mother.
Being a single parent mother is a challenging journey, to say the least. This journey encompasses a myriad of hardships and emotional complexities. Single parents often find themselves navigating a landscape filled with financial strain, emotional burdens, and social isolation, all while striving to provide a nurturing environment for their children.
One of the most pressing issues faced by single parent mothers is financial instability. In Iowa, 35 to 40 percent of single parent families live at or below the poverty level. With only one income to support the family, many find it very difficult to make ends meet. Single parents may struggle to cover their family’s basic needs for food, utilities, housing, childcare, clothing and transportation. Navigating these struggles alone — and with limited resources — can send stress levels soaring. High parental stress, in turn, can spark even more challenges and adverse outcomes among the children involved. Many single parents have to juggle multi-
ple jobs or long hours at work, which can lead to exhaustion and stress. With the lack of time, single moms struggle to be able to help their children engage in extracurricular activities, access educational resources, and transport them to other youth social activities.
Many single parent moms are working lower paying jobs which leads to serious challenges in paying their bills and covering expenses. Their financial hardships often create emotional challenges. The responsibility of raising children alone can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Many single parents miss the companionship and support that a partner can provide. This lack of support can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and depression. The emotional toll of managing household duties, parenting responsibilities, and personal well-being can lead to significant stress and mental health struggles. Anxiety and depression are common among single parents, who may feel overwhelmed by their circumstances.
Between work, household chores, and parenting duties, single parents can face severe fatigue and burnout, diminishing the quality of parenting and leading to a cycle of stress that is difficult to break. This constant balancing act can make it hard for single parents to find time to
RANDY KUHLMAN
C.E.O FORT DODGE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND UNITED WAY
connect with their children meaningfully, which is crucial for their much-needed nurturing and healthy emotional development.
Despite these challenges, many single parents exhibit remarkable resilience and strength. They often develop strong bonds with their children and foster an environment of love and support. Despite the financial strain, emotional challenges, and social isolation that single parents must navigate, many single parents continue to provide loving and nurturing environments for their children, demonstrating incredible strength in the face of adversity.
United Way of Greater Fort Dodge is helping single parents when they find themselves facing a financial crisis that puts them and their children at risk of eviction and becoming homeless, or not being able to pay their utility bills and risk having the water disconnected or their electricity and heat turned off. United Way support helps these families during their time of crisis so they can avoid eviction, and they can keep their water on in their homes.
For information on how you can help these single parent moms and their children, contact our United Way office at 515-573-3171. Donations can be mailed to United Way of Greater Fort Dodge, 24 North 9th Street, Suite B, Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501.
UPCOMINGEVENTS
NOVEMBER 16
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.- Fort Museum Opera HouseDickens of a Christmas Vendor Event
NOVEMBER 16
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.- Webster County FairgroundsFlea Market
NOVEMBER 16
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.- Faiferlick Martial Arts Central Iowa Tae Kwon Do Championships
NOVEMBER 16
4 to 9 p.m.- Webster County Fairgrounds Gun Show
NOVEMBER 16
7 to 11 p.m.- The Laramar Ballroom Fort Dodge Fireman’s Ball
NOVEMBER 17
1 to 3 p.m.- St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Friendsgiving
NOVEMBER 23
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.- Cardiff Event Center Cardiff Holiday Expo
NOVEMBER 23
1 to 6 p.m.- Soldier Creek Winery Nouveau Fest
NOVEMBER 30
1 to 4 p.m.- Soldier Creek Winery Art and Craft Supply Swap
NOVEMBER 30
All day- Downtown Fort Dodge Small Business Saturday
DECEMBER 2
5-7 p.m.- Downtown Fort Dodge Santa Family Fun Night
DECEMBER 5-7
Hawkeye Community Theatre The Enchanted Bookshop Christmas
DECEMBER 6-8
6 to 9 p.m.- Lights at Kennedy
DECEMBER 6
8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Holy Trinity Catholic Church- Steve Angrisano
DECEMBER 6
7 p.m.- Phillips Auditorium Brad and Kate’s Little Holiday Spectacular
DECEMBER 7
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
St. Edmond High SchoolFriends of St. Ed’s Craft and Vendor Show
UPCOMINGEVENTS
DECEMBER 7
5-9 p.m.- Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Steve Angrisano
DECEMBER 7-15
Citizens Central
Christmas Tree Walk
DECEMBER 7-8
Webster County Fairgrounds
Farm News Show
DECEMBER 8
3 p.m.- Fort Dodge Middle School
Fort Dodge Area Symphony “Joy to the World” 75th Season Celebration
Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way
Summer Menu Weds, Thurs, Fri Nights
Willow Ridge Golf Course and Restaurant 1788 Madison Ave. • Ford Dodge, IA • 515-576-5711
artistspot
Stephen Kelleher
Age: 72 • Hometown: Native Fort Dodger Instrument: Have performed on guitar, lute, electric bass, drums, viola da gamba, rebec, recorders, and krumhorn
How did you first become interested in making music?
I started band on snare drum the summer after 4th grade. I got my first guitar in 7th grade and was in a garage band in 8th grade. Band was always my favorite subject. In high school I performed with my brother as the Kelleher Brothers and appeared in the Bill Riley Talent Search on television and at the state fair.
Did you grow up in a musical household? If so, in what ways. We had a piano in the house and both of my parents, as well as some of my siblings, had taken piano lessons. I taught myself some chords and played by ear.
What has your educational & career path been?
After high school, I first attended St. Ambrose College and majored in Music Education with classic guitar as my major instrument; I had a scholarship to play timpani. After one year, I transferred to the College of St. Teresa in Winona, MN, where
I also had a scholarship to play timpani. I added Renaissance lute my junior year at St. Teresa’s. I started teaching elementary vocal music after graduation in the Fort Dodge Catholic Schools and also earned certification in Orff-Schulwerk Music from DePaul University in Chicago. Later, I earned two teaching endorsements in Special Education from Iowa State and Morningside.
Who has had the greatest influence on you musically?
I really wanted to play music after hearing the Beatles in 1963. I decided to study music formally after playing in a jazz band the summer of 1969; I intended to become a jazz guitarist, but somehow I ended up as a classic guitarist and lutenist.
If you had a chance to meet any performer/ musician, alive or dead, whom would you choose?
I would say that George Harrison would be at the top of the list. He was not interested in playing long, intricate solos; he played only what fit to make the song work.
What are some of your musical accomplishments?
I played with Musica Antiqua of Ames from 1977 until 2019 as Iowa Artists and in several other Midwest states. I played drums with the Vern Claussen Orchestra for several years, bass and guitar with the Sonshine Singers, and in numerous musical pit orchestras at Iowa Central and St. Edmond.
Why is it important for people to learn about instruments from other countries and in what ways have you worked to educate others about these instruments?
The history of music, including the instruments, is part of our culture and part of all cultures. I have demonstrated Renaissance instruments in several school systems, as well as at Iowa Central and Iowa State.
What keeps you busy, musically, now?
I try to practice lute, guitar, and bluegrass banjo daily; I play bass regularly in local churches, and occasionally guitar or percussion.
What are your hobbies outside of music?
I spend as much time as possible with my grandchildren and that involves travel to the west coast. I tune pianos, but that has become more than a hobby lately. I do maintain a raspberry patch.
What has been the hardest lesson to learn when it comes to music and performing?
Music performance involves keeping up your technique and your instruments, and I have a lot of instruments. You have to be ready when an opportunity arises.
Edward Jones
ARE YOUR PROTECTION PLANS IN PLACE?
Have you ever thought about how much you have to protect? Between your family, your finances, your independence and your legacy, it can be quite a lot — and that’s why it’s important to have the right protection plan in place.
Let’s look at these areas of need and some possible protection solutions:
• Protecting your income – An injury or severe illness could prevent you from working for some time. And if that happened, your family’s finances could become strained. To help guard against this possibility, you may want to consider disability insurance. Your employer may offer some type of coverage, but it’s likely to be short term and may not be enough to help close the income gap you might face, so you may want to consider purchasing your own policy.
• Protecting your family – If you were no longer around, how would your family’s lifestyle be affected? Could they stay in the same house? Could your children afford college or another type of postsecondary education? If you have adequate life insurance, the answer to these questions can be “yes.” Again, you might get some coverage from your employer, but it may be insufficient, so you may want to explore additional protection through a personal policy. In determining
how much coverage you’ll need, you’ll want to weigh several factors: size of mortgage and other debts, number of children, spouse’s income and needs, and the legacy you’d like to leave.
• Protecting your goals – You may have some important financial goals, such as sending your children to college and achieving a comfortable retirement. To protect these goals, you’ll need strategies to help prepare for them, which could include investing in an education savings plan and contributing regularly to your IRA and 401(k) or other retirement plans.
• Protecting your financial independence – Hopefully, you will be able to remain financially independent your entire life. But this independence could be threatened by the need for some type of long-term care. Consider this: A private room in a nursing home costs, on average, more than $116,000 a year, while the services of a home health aide are more than $75,000 a year, according to Genworth, an insurance company. Medicare generally does not cover these costs or types of needs and would typically only pay for a short period. You might be left with
significant bills or creditors and possibly dependent on family or loved ones. To help protect yourself from these threats, you may want to consult with a financial professional, who can offer long-term care solutions.
• Protecting your legacy – When you work hard your whole life, you may want to leave something behind to your loved ones. A comprehensive estate plan can help ensure your family — and the charitable groups you support — will receive the resources you’d like them to have. An estate plan can be somewhat complex, involving various documents and arrangements, including a will, living trust and various powers of attorney, so you’ll need to work with a qualified legal advisor, and possibly your financial professional.
As we’ve seen, “protection” can take many forms. So, try to follow all the protection strategies you need to enjoy the life you’ve envisioned for yourself and your family.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Mon-Sat 6am - 9pm Sun - 6am - 2:30 pm
Enjoy: Our Famous FRIED CHICKEN
• Burgers • Salads • Breakfast • Tenderloins • Taco Salads • Ice Cream • Fish • Fries
JA-MAR
Drive-In Restaurant
325 S. 25th Fort Dodge
Since 1967
Ja-Mar Drive-In Restaurant has been a favorite place to bring the family.
Did you know GreenState is consistently ranked in the Top 1% Nationally for returning profits with better rates & lower fees? That means one of the Top financial institutions in the country, is here in Fort Dodge.
