Destiny Benavidez, ILTA 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.
Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance
SHOP LOCAL THIS 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON: INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY
As we reflect on the past year, we at the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance are filled with gratitude for the incredible business community that makes our region so vibrant. Thanks to your hard work, collaboration, and commitment, 2024 has been a remarkable year of progress and achievement. Together, we’ve witnessed substantial growth, celebrated milestones, and continued to advance our mission-driven efforts to make Webster County and the Fort Dodge Region a thriving hub of opportunity.
Our collective work in fostering economic development, supporting local businesses, and enhancing quality of life has yielded significant results. From new business openings to innovative project expansions and investments in key sectors, the momentum in our region is undeniable. These achievements are a testament to the strength of our continued partnerships and the shared vision we have for a prosperous future. Growth is on the horizon.
As we approach the end of 2024, we want to take a moment to thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Your support and dedication are the foundation of our success. We also extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a joyful holiday season filled with peace, happiness, and cherished moments.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this year’s accomplishments and continue driving growth and opportunity in our community. The future holds tremendous potential, and with your continued partnership, together; we are poised to achieve even greater things yet to come.
Happy Holidays and cheers to a prosperous New Year!
With Delight,
and the Greater Fort Dodge Staff and Board of Directors
THE CITY OF FORT DODGE INVITES YOU TO A
OPEN HOUSEHoliday
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 4:30 PM TO 7:00 PM 819 1ST AVE S, FORT DODGE, IA 50501
Celebrate the season with us.
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT CITY DEPARTMENTS, EXPLORE RECENT RENOVATIONS, VISIT SANTA, ENJOY FUN ACTIVITIES AND CRAFTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY, AND INDULGE IN A HOT CHOCOLATE BAR WITH ALL THE TOPPINGS & DELICIOUS COOKIES!
WITH
Q&A SHELLY BOTTORFF
FORT DODGE FINE ARTS
With the holidays approaching, can you share some exciting local events or activities happening this season?
Fort Dodge has so many wonderful opportunities to get you into the Holiday Spirit this year. The schools always provide high quality concerts from elementary age students through college as well as our other performing arts organizations and theatre groups. Please refer to our calendar at www.fdfineartsassociation.org for more information. In the meantime, check these out:
First Covenant Church will perform their Christmas Cantata, “ Come Emmanuel on Saturday, December 14 @ 5:00 and at 10:30 on Sunday, December 15.
Shaun Johnson(from Tonic Sol Fa) will bring his Big Band Experience to Historic Phillips Auditorium on Sunday, December 15 for a show not to be missed. “Cool Yule Holiday Show”
Friday, December 20, Brady O’Brien LIVE presents “A Very Merry Christmas” at Decker Auditorium at 6:00pm
Sunday, December 22 the FD Choral Society presents “The Joys of Christmas” at St. Olaf Lutheran Church at 3:00pm
These don’t include the over 30 additional live music events in town during the month of December.
Shelly Bottorff
WITH SHELLY BOTTORFF - FORT DODGE FINE ARTS
Where can community members find a schedule of these events, either online or in person?
Discover the vibrant arts scene in our community by exploring our calendar at www. fdfineartsassociation.org, where you’ll find all our members’ upcoming events. Stay updated by following our social media pages for the latest posts and highlights. Plus, tune in to 94.5 every Wednesday morning to hear our weekly radio spot, sharing what’s happening in the world of fine arts right here in Fort Dodge.
How can we encourage more people and businesses to participate in and support existing community events?
The arts and culture in our community thrive through the active participation and support of individuals and businesses. By attending events, sponsoring programs, or volunteering your time, you help create a vibrant cultural scene that enriches our lives and strengthens our local economy. Your involvement ensures that creative opportunities remain accessible, inspiring future generations and fostering a sense of pride and connection. Together, we can continue to build a community where the arts flourish and bring people together in meaningful ways.
What is something you are most excited about this holiday season?
I’m thrilled about all of the wonderful holiday events happening in our community this season – it’s such a joyful time to celebrate creativity and connection. Personally, I’m looking forward to a few days of downtime to recharge and prepare for an exciting year ahead. 2025 promises to be spectacular, especially as we gear up to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association. It’s going to be an incredible milestone, and I can’t wait to share all of the amazing things we have planned for the year to come.
Brady O’Brien Live is Celebrating Five Years
After donating $34,000 into the community, Brady O’Brien Live is proud to announce:
CELEBRATING HIS 5 YEARS of LIVE CHRISTMAS SHOWS, Brady O’Brien will next be at Decker Auditorium in Fort Dodge, Iowa on December 20th. This show will feature Grace Casciato, Elle Clark, Malaney Butrick, Emma Davis plus new surprise vocalists to be announced soon! Tickets are available at www.bradyobrienlive.com. You must have a ticket to attend the event, they may go fast so don’t wait! This is a seated and assigned show. Ushers will be throughout the venue to help you find your seats. Tickets will be available at the door UNLESS the event sells out prior to December 14th.
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
United Bank of Iowa is a full-service community bank offering a wide range of deposit and loan products to help both personal and business customers succeed. We have the capacity to meet the lending needs of large agricultural and commercial businesses while maintaining the personalized service you expect from your hometown bank.
United Bank of Iowa has been serving customers in the Fort Dodge area since June, 1990, when they acquired the former Sun Savings. Headquartered in Ida Grove, Iowa, United Bank of Iowa has grown into a regional bank with 36 locations in west central Iowa and assets totally over 2.4 billion.
Known for their strong commitment to rural Iowa, United Bank of Iowa has been recognized as the #1 Ag Bank in Iowa for the past 20 years! This success is the result of loyal customers, dedicated employees, local ownership, and understanding the importance of the agriculture industry. With a goal to build lasting customer relation-
Member FDIC
ships, you can count on United Bank of Iowa to look at all available financing options and find a plan that’s best for each customer’s individual operation. United Bank of Iowa is proud to finance premier ag producers and watch them achieve success and grow. Their ag producers are not just customers, they are friends, neighbors, and fellow community members.
United Bank of Iowa is more than “just an ag bank”. They offer competitive rates and terms for mortgage and consumer loans and a full menu of deposit products including retirement products and trust services to protect and manage your assets. Their Ubi Kids Saving Club has some nice perks for children age 12 and under. Customers age 55 and better may join the Emerald Club and enjoy special benefits, social events and travel opportunities.
The bank’s history of growth and success has allowed them to give back to the communities they serve building strong connections for mutual success. Their UNITED TOGETHER Makes the Difference Cause Day effort recently donated to its 100th cause since September, 2020, with total donations of
over $212,000 which includes employee donations and matching funds from the bank. Read more about this effort at unitedbk.bank.
Their tagline, “The Difference is Here”, means they strive to work hard to bring customers that difference every day. You can count on United Bank of Iowa to stay focused on their mission of creating and maintaining personalized customer relationships delivering an outstanding banking experience for our current customers and future generations. The staff at United Bank of Iowa is excited for the future of United Bank of Iowa and continuing to build relationships to help customers and communities grow and succeed.
City Connect FORT DODGE
The Ongoing Evolution of Fort Dodge’s Municipal Building
In 2007 and 2008, the Building Evaluation and Recommendation Team (BERT) was tasked with evaluating the future of the Municipal Building. Their findings were clear: the City should remain in the current structure. However, significant work was required to address the building’s aging infrastructure. BERT recommended that the City move forward with repairs to exterior amenities, interior spaces, and mechanical systems, with a particular focus on making the building more accessible and ADA-compliant. These recommendations set the stage for a series of strategic renovations designed to preserve the building’s historical charm while ensuring it met the needs of the modern city.
renovation also introduced an at-grade ADA entry, a new lobby, expanded Council Chambers, and ADA-compliant restroom facilities. With attention to detail and respect for the original vision of the building, this renovation enhanced accessibility while preserving the integrity of the structure.
The following years saw continued improvements. In 2018, the focus shifted to Priority 3 renovations, which included work on the utility billing area, second-floor restrooms, and improvements to security and the Parks & Recreation Department. Renovations to the first and second floors included updated plaster wall repairs, new flooring, and modernized mechanical and electrical systems. The public lobbies and the central stairway also saw major upgrades, ensuring the building was functional and welcoming to all who entered.
In 2019, the building’s masonry received much-needed attention. The masonry restoration project was completed in two phases: tuck-pointing, brick replacement, and repairs to terracotta trim. The second phase involved work on the building’s light wells, ensuring that both the interior and exterior of the building maintained their structural integrity while enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
The renovations continued in 2020 with Priority 4 and Priority 5 projects, addressing interior and exterior improvements. The City Manager’s Office, Human Resources Office, and IT/Server areas were all renovated, while exterior improvements included replacing old windows, damaged garage door panels, and the west staff entrance. These efforts were part of an ongoing commitment to improving the building’s energy efficiency and security while maintaining its historical character.
By 2021, Priority 5 renovations focused on the interior of the Business Affairs and Community Growth offices. These updates included new carpet tiles, LVT flooring, custom wood trim, and modernized HVAC, mechanical, and electrical systems. Asbestos abatement was also carried out prior to construction to ensure the safety and well-being of employees and visitors.
As the building continued its transformation, 2022 saw further improvements to the HVAC system, the Broadband Administration Office, and second-floor Engineering East Wing. New conference rooms, engineering offices, and roof access ladders were added, ensuring the building’s functionality met the evolving needs of the City. This renovation also included fire alarms, CCTV, and plumbing improvements.
The most recent renovation project, the 2024 Parking Lot Reconstruction, focused on improving the area surrounding the Municipal Building. The project addressed pavement removal, subgrade preparation, storm sewer installation, and the construction of ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps. The improvements to the parking lot ensure accessibility
and safety for all who visit City Hall. Looking ahead, the Priority 7 renovations in the basement, south and west exterior, and main floor levels will continue to improve the building’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. These updates will create more efficient spaces for storage, office areas, and meeting rooms, while also addressing exterior repairs to prevent further wear and tear. The creation of a conditioned storage space and the renovation of the west staff entry stair are just some of the planned enhancements.
Through these ongoing renovations, Fort Dodge’s Municipal Building is not just being preserved but revitalized. Each project reflects the City’s commitment to providing a safe, accessible, and efficient space for residents and employees alike. As the building transforms, it remains a symbol of the City’s rich history and bright future.
The City of Fort Dodge invites residents to a Holiday Open House at City Hall on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, meet your neighbors, and see the continued transformation of the Municipal Building firsthand. There will be activities and treats for the family, tours and even a visit from Santa himself. We look forward to celebrating the season with you!
shiningstar
Iris McAtee
Age: 13
Grade/School: Fort Dodge Middle School • Hometown: Fort Dodge
In In what ways do you participate in the arts in Fort Dodge?
I have participated in 9 theatre productions including shows with The Comedia Musica Players, Stage Door Productions, and the Fort Dodge Middle School. I also sing in the FDMS Choir and Honor Choir as well as play percussion with the FDMS 8th grade band. Additionally, I have gotten a chance to help with back stage work including set and costuming alongside my parents in their theatre work.
What do you most enjoy about music, theatre and/or performing?
I enjoy getting to meet new people because new people create new opportunities. I love getting to share my love for music and theater and making others happy.
What have you learned from being involved in musical productions?
I have learned to become a better singer as well as learned confidence on stage. I have also learned how much work and dedication actually goes into making a show or performing for an audience.
What do you want to be when you are an adult?
I would like to be a professional photographer and continue to do musicals and plays as well.
What is your favorite musical and why?
“Six” is my favorite because I love how it tells the woman’s side of the story of Henry the 8th. They were all strong confident women. I also like the powerful music of this show.
If you could play any part in a musical, who would you play and why?
I would like to play Anna of Cleves from the musical “Six”. She feels like the most confident woman who didn’t need Henry the 8th to validate who she is. I hope to have that type of confidence in life.
Walk us through your typical school day.
I ride the bus to school and usually take a few moments to visit with friends. Then I go to homeroom, ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies. I get to end the day with my two favorite classes: band and choir! Depending on the time of year, I may stay late to play sports or participate in musical practice.
What other activities are you involved in?
I have played volleyball in both 7th and 8th with the FDMS, and I am excited to join the FDSH swim team next year.
If you could meet anyone famous, who would you want to meet and why?
I would like to meet Emma Watson or Evanna Lynch, who played Hermione Granger and Luna Lovgood in the Harry Potter movie series. They were my favorite characters in the books and the movies because they are fun and silly but also smart and brave.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go, who would you take and why?
I would like to visit Europe, specifically, Rome, Paris, and Greece. I would like to visit Rome and Paris for their architecture and Greece because I have always been fascinated by Greek Mythology. I would take my friend, Lauren, with me because even though I have only known her for a few years, we have become very close and always have a great time together.
The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance
DECEMBER 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
THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE
HOME
Greater Fort Dodge Region Greater Fort Dodge Region
Whether you left for only a few years or a few decades, moving back to the place where it all started can be a life changing experience. After all, your hometown is your past and possibly your future all tied up into one. It's chocked-full of memories, old friends and close family.
SHORT COMMUTE
THE AVERAGE COMMUTE TIME IN FORT DODGE IS 16.8 MINUTES, ALMOST HALF THE US AVERAGE OF 26.7 MINUTES!
LOW COST OF LIVING
THE NATIONAL AVERAGE HOME COSTS ABOUT $412,000 COMPARED TO FORT DODGE’S $168,200.
RECREATION FOR MILES
WE HAVE WHAT FLOATS YOUR BOAT! THE REGION HAS 70 MILES OF WATER TRAILS & HARD SURFACE TRAILS FOR RUNNING, RIDING BIKES, OR TAKING THE POOCH FOR A WALK.
JOBS, JOBS & MORE JOBS
NUMEROUS JOB OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT YOU IN FORT DODGE AND WEBSTER COUNTY. WE HAVE THE PERFEC JOB TO SUIT YOUR SKILLS AND INTERESTS!
EATERIES, BREWERIES, WINERIES
YOU WILL FIND A VARIETY OF NATIONAL CHAIN ESTABLISHMENTS ALONGSIDE LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED RESTAURANTS, PUBS AND FINE DINING.
SPORTS FANS
IF YOU'RE A PLAYER OR A FAN, THERE ARE A VARIETY OF OPPORTUNITIES TO ENJOY LOCAL SPORTING EVENTS OR CATCH A CHEAP FLIGHT TO WATCH YOUR CLOSEST PRO TEAM.
FAMILY & FRIENDS
BUILT-IN BABYSITTERS, CHEAP DATE NIGHTS AND SUNDAY DINNERS, OH MY!
ABUNDANCE OF ART
WITH AN AVERAGE OF 70 FINE ARTS OPPORTUNITIES PER MONTH & 3-4 LIVE MUSIC EVENTS PER WEEK, THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
FORT DODGE IS HOME
It was in October of last year that my husband Alex and I decided that we were going to move our family back home to Fort Dodge We put our house on the market in Kingwood, TX (a suburb in Houston) and it ended up selling within a month By January 2024, we were pulling our U-Haul back into town to our new house right before the first snow of the year
Lots of people ask me why we decided to come back to Fort Dodge after living in Houston for a couple of years The main reason we moved back was the desire to be back around our family and friends We missed the spontaneous meetups, the weekend gatherings, and the holidays getting to visit with everyone Our family would fly down to see us once or twice a year, but it was hard only having a short time together Our youngest son was missing out on special times with his grandparents Moving back home has allowed us to reconnect with all our loved ones and now we get to build more memories together
Fort Dodge offers a much slower, more relaxed pace of life In a big city, traffic is a constant headache, and getting around here is refreshingly simple We don’t have to check for accidents and navigate through nine lanes of traffic in each direction In Fort Dodge, a trip to the grocery store is quick, and crossing town doesn’t take 30 minutes of intense bumper-tobumper driving. Meeting up with friends is effortless, and the convenience of getting around makes life here that much easier There are also a lot of hometown things to do here which you don’t find in cities We take for granted localized radio and newspapers, not every area has those things There is more communication here which leads to more connections People are not strangers
Another major factor in moving was the cost of living Fort Dodge has cheap water, gas, and electric bills compared to other areas And let’s not forget insurance prices and the cost of groceries We came from an area where our water bills ranged from $300-$800 a month. Home and car insurance was triple what we pay here. We saved a significant amount of money by moving back to Fort Dodge This is truly an affordable place to live
Professional opportunities also played a role in our decision There are good jobs in Fort Dodge that pay very well You would think in a place like Houston, it would be easy for people to find work There are so many people, which creates unbelievable competition for jobs Because of this competition, wages there are lower It has a totally different dynamic than Fort Dodge Small businesses have a greater opportunity to thrive here, and having a specialized career can make a bigger impact than it would in a large city. We had moved away for more opportunities when maybe they were here in our small town all along
Finally, the sense of peace and security that comes from being in a familiar environment cannot be overstated There’s something reassuring about living in a place where everyone knows each other and looks after each other And even though I really miss the weather, in the end, moving back to Fort Dodge has been a rewarding decision, one that I’m grateful for every single day
While living in Colorado, we would often visit Fort Dodge for the holidays – many of those trips were followed by conversations about the possibility of moving to Iowa someday After the birth of our daughter, the idea of raising a family in a large city, with its ever-increasing cost of living, seemingly non-stop traffic, and fast-paced lifestyle, lost its appeal Being a part of a tight-knit community where we can live a calmer pace of life, and where we can prioritize time with family and friends, is something we really value – it is that thing we always experienced when we would visit Fort Dodge So we decided to make our move in Sp ring 2024! Being back in town has been a blessing; having family and friends nearby, being welcomed into the strong Catholic community at Holy Trinity Parish, and experiencing so many fun activities in the area has brought us tremendous joy! We’re so excited to be a part of this wonderful community! THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
SARAH KENNEBECK
ANTHONY & JULIE FLATTERY
Thank You!
Thank You!
Thank you to our dedicated board members for your leadership and investment in making our community thrive!
Availa Bank
Baker Group
Beisser Lumber
Bemrich Electric and Telephone
Blue Ribbon Pelham Waters
C&S Products
Cargill
Citizens Community Credit Union
City of Fort Dodge
CJ Bio America
Decker Truck Line
Elanco
Fort Dodge Community
Foundation and United Way
First Interstate Bank
First State Bank
Fort Dodge Fiber
Fort Dodge Ford Toyota
Friendship Haven
Gowrie Development
Commission
GreenState Credit Union
Gunderson Funeral Home and
Cremation Services
Humes Distributing
Iowa Central Community College
Kemna Auto of Fort Dodge
Koch Fertilizer
McClure Engineering
Mid Country Machinery
MidAmerican Energy
Midwest Fence & Gate Company
Mineral City Mill and Grill/Olde
Boston’s Restaurant and
Pub/Sports Page Bar and Grill -
Restaurant Group
Nestle Purina PetCare
NEW Cooperative
Northwest Bank
One Vision
Rasch Construction
RoJohn Home Improvement
Shimkat Motor Company
Spin Markket + Digital/O’Hern
Trucking
The Messenger
TKG Holdings
United Bank of Iowa
UnityPoint Health - Fort Dodge
Visit Fort Dodge
Webster County
White Transfer & Storage
Woodruff Construction
Ribbon Cuttings
Veterans Bridge
Trinity Heart Center
Central Iowa Pain & Wellness
Bickford Realty
Northwest Bank
County Connect
OUTDOORS WINTER EQUIPMENT RENTALS IN WEBSTER COUNTY
Winter is the perfect time to embrace the outdoors, stay active, and explore the beauty of Webster County. The Webster County Conservation is making it easier than ever with affordable winter equipment rentals available through the River’s Edge Discovery Center (REDC). Whether you’re interested in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, this opportunity provides everything you need to enjoy the snow-covered trails and natural wonders of the season.
Rental packages include skis, boots, and poles, with options to fit your schedule and budget: $10/day, $20/weekend, or $30/week. To get started, simply visit mycountyparks.com to reserve your equipment. Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early reservations are encouraged. Equipment must be picked up at the REDC by scheduling a time between 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM, Monday through
Friday. All rentals must be returned by 3:30 PM on the scheduled return date.
What’s even better is that kids aged 15 and under can enjoy the experience for free with an accompanying adult rental, making this an affordable and family-friendly way to spend time outdoors. For those new to skiing or snowshoeing, the REDC also offers occasional clinics to help you get started. Equipment used for the clinic is available for rental afterward, with updates posted on their Facebook page.
Take advantage of this opportunity to improve your cardiovascular fitness, build muscle strength, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Webster County’s winter landscape. Gather your friends or family and make lasting memories this winter with equipment rentals from Webster County Conservation!
Thank you to First Interstate Bank for the donation to the Matt Cosgrove River’s Edge Discovery Center. Their generous donation of $2,500 will go towards future exhibits.
Stay Informed This Winter with Webster County/Alert Iowa Alerts
With winter approaching, now is the time to sign up for Webster County/Alert Iowa Alerts. This free service keeps you informed of emergencies and severe weather with notifications sent via voice, text, or email. While the service is free, standard message rates may apply.
To ensure you receive alerts, watch for text messages from codes like 226787 or voice calls from (515) 911-9111.
Sign up today and stay ahead of the storm—your safety is just a click away!
Pictured left to right: Cameron Nelson, Matt Cosgrove, Megan Moore, and Shari Burke
Iowa Central Community College
College Connect
FEEDING FORT DODGE AND BEYOND
Iowa Central Students Spread Holiday Cheer and Meals Through Community Service
As the holiday season continues, students at Iowa Central Community College are making a meaningful impact, exemplifying a commitment to service both locally and globally. With many students originating from the surrounding area— and a significant number intending to remain in the region post-graduation—their efforts underscore the college’s dedication to fostering strong community connections and supporting the communities it serves. “We fully understand that our institution is only as strong as the communities we serve,” said Iowa Central President Dr. Jesse Ulrich.
THANKSGIVING WITH FORT DODGE FORD
While most students traveled home for a restful week, students in the Culinary Arts, Baking, and Hospitality programs stayed in town to tackle their largest preparation yet—the Fort Dodge Ford Thanksgiving meal. Established in 2009 by Fort Dodge Ford owners Casey and Deb Johnson, this cherished tradition has grown from serving 200 guests to more than 2,500.
Planning for the meal begins months in advance, with instructors and students ordering eighty 30-pound turkeys as early as the summer. The real work intensifies in the week leading up to the event, as hundreds of pounds of potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables are peeled and prepared.
Participation in this event is voluntary, with students who remain in the area during the break or who wish to give back eagerly stepping up. Many of the participants are alumni of the culinary or baking programs and are now pursuing studies in the Hospitality program. For several students, this was their second year contributing to the effort.
“When everyone else goes home, these students stay and put in around 30 hours of volunteer time per student,” said Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Program Coordinator Chef Michael Hirst. The students embrace the challenge because it not only tests their skills but also fosters a sense of teamwork.
Chef Hirst expressed his gratitude for providing this opportunity to his students, emphasizing its value in building confidence. “They will never fear preparing a 200- to 500-person meal after accomplishing a 2,500-person meal,” he said. Some totals for the 2024 meal include, but are not limited to:
• 80- 30lb turkeys
• 250 lbs sausage meat stuffing
• 250 lbs bread stuffing
• 250 lbs cranberries
• 600 gallons of turkey stock
• 25 lbs fresh sage
GLOBAL IMPACT: FIGHTING HUNGER WORLDWIDE
Iowa Central students are extending their impact beyond local service to make a difference on a global scale. On December 7, members of the Iowa Central Student Government and Intervarsity collaborated with local community members in a 500-volunteer initiative to package meals for the organization Feed My Starving Children.
The event, hosted in the gymnasium of Community Christian School, marked the final MobilePack™ event in Iowa for 2024 and the 8th annual event in Fort Dodge. Over the course of three shifts, community volunteers transformed the school gym into a bustling assembly line to prepare MannaPacks ®.
Before entering the gym, volunteers donned hairnets, reviewed the packing process, and completed handwashing procedures. The MannaPack ®, a “fortified rice and soy blend,” include rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables, and vitamin powder. Each bag was carefully weighed, sealed, and boxed before being loaded onto a semitrailer for global distribution.
The atmosphere was electric, with community groups uniting under a shared goal: packing as many meals as possible to help feed children in need worldwide. Each time a box was filled with 36 MannaPacks ®—equivalent to 216 meals—volunteers cheered to celebrate their progress.
Iowa Central students contributed to packing a total of 105,850 meals during the event, enough to provide food for 290 children for an entire year.
BUILDING A LEGACY OF SERVICE
The combined efforts of Iowa Central students illustrate a deep connection to the values of service and leadership. Through preparing meals for thousands in Fort Dodge or helping fight hunger globally, these students and faculty/staff are making a meaningful impact.
Their efforts not only brighten the holidays for countless families but also underscore the importance of giving back—a tradition that will likely continue as they carry these lessons into their futures, after Iowa Central.
Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY
USE YOUR RMD TO START A CHARITABLE FUND?
To alleviate the tax burden of required minimum distributions from IRAs, many people are using their RMDs to make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) to their favorite charities. These tax-free distributions are a financially advantageous way for clients age 70 ½ or older to turn their retirement savings into a meaningful gift.
Normally, distributions from a traditional IRA are taxable when received. With a QCD, however, these distributions become tax-free as long as they are paid directly from the IRA to an eligible charitable organization.
Each year, an IRA owner age 70½ or over when the distribution is made can exclude from gross income up to $100,000 of these QCDs. For a married couple, if both spouses are eligible, they can exclude up to $200,000 per year.
Unfortunately, QCDs often create headaches for donors who must process their distributions to charities individually – sometimes issuing several checks per year. One solution is to establish a charitable fund at a qualified community Foundation. (The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is a qualified community Foundation.)
Designated Funds: Designated funds can be a good choice for clients who prefer to support the same charities every year. These funds streamline the giving process by automatically awarding annual grants to one or more charities selected by you. You simply choose the charities you would like to support and make a tax-free transfer directly from your IRA to establish the fund. The Fort Dodge Community Foundation then handles all administration and check writing, simplifying the paperwork and automating the distribution process for you.
Field of Interest Funds: Another attractive charitable giving option the Fort Dodge Community Foundation can offer is a field of interest fund which can be created with a QCD from your RMD. Field of Interest Funds allow your gift to make a real impact in the charitable organizations and causes you are most passionate about.
RANDY KUHLMAN
C.E.O FORT DODGE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND UNITED WAY
By establishing a Field of Interest Fund, you can target your gift to address needs in an important area of community life. You simply have to identify your personal interest or cause, and the community foundation will award grants to community organizations and programs that are making a difference in that area. Your gift will stay flexible over time to continually meet the community needs in your defined field of interest.
Funds can be named in your name or your family’s name or anonymously. A field of interest fund can be as broad or as narrow as you desire. Field of Interest funds are popular because of the flexibility they offer donors. Examples of Field of Interest funds include support of education, healthcare, the arts, environment, public safety, at-risk youth, animal rescues, community betterment, helping the underprivileged, etc.
In future years, you can simply direct your annual RMD to your designated or field of interest fund, allowing you to support multiple charities with just one QCD. Charitable dollars in your fund can be invested to grow tax-free, or they can be placed in a money market ac-
count, so they are readily available for grant-making. Many funds are invested and permanently endowed to ensure your legacy lives on long after you are gone. Others are non-endowed and short-term for more immediate grant-making.
To learn more about how you can maximize the impact of your retirement assets through charitable giving, contact Randy Kuhlman, C.E.O. of the Fort Dodge Community Foundation, at 515-573-3171 or email at: rk@fd-foundation.org.
UPCOMINGEVENTS
DECEMBER 15 - 6 P.M.
Phillips Auditorium- “Cool Yule Holiday Show” with Shaun Johnson and the Big Band Experience
DECEMBER 15, 29, JANUARY 12- 3 P.M.
Soldier Creek Winery- Bingo for DSAOC
DECEMBER 17 - 5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.
Ardys Mae Coffe & Dessert- Becker Florist Holiday Centerpiece Workshop (Registration required)
DECEMBER 18 - 4:30 P.M.
City Hall- Holiday Open House
DECEMBER 18 - 6:30 P.M.
Fort Museum Opera House
Wacky Tacky Winter Weather Sweater Throw Down- Line Dance Party
DECEMBER 19 - 4 P.M.
Laramar Ballroom- Operation Ornament
DECEMBER 19- 7 P.M.
Eagles Hideout Lounge- Third Thursday Jam Session
DECEMBER 20- 7 P.M.
Decker Auditorium- “A Very Merry Christmas” with Brady O’Brien
DECEMBER 21 - 9 TO 11 A.M.
FD Play and Learn Center
Music Class (Registration required)
DECEMBER 22- 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.
Fort Museum Opera House- Winter Wonderland Festival
UPCOMINGEVENTS
DECEMBER 22- 2 TO 5 P.M.
River Hops Brewing- Fort Dodge Pride
Holiday Social and Gift Exchange
DECEMBER 28- 6:30 P.M.
Fort Museum Opera House
Holiday Gala with the Whitesidewalls
DECEMBER 31 - 5 TO 8 P.M.
Soldier Creek Winery
New Year’s Eve at the Winery
MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS - 5 P.M.
Fort Museum Opera House Bingo
THURSDAYS - 7 P.M.
River Hops Brewing - Trivia Night
THURSDAYS - 7 P.M.
Creekside Restaurant- DJ Bingo
Summer Menu Weds, Thurs, Fri Nights
Season’s Gre ings
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artistspot
How did you first become interested in making music?
Music was in our household in different forms. I recall as a youth patiently waiting for my parents to be done with church choir practice and many Sundays seated in the choir loft. My first drumset started when we purchased a small bass drum and pedal at a garage sale, and then I completed the set by adding Schwan’s plastic ice cream buckets. They were strategically kept in the basement.
How long have you been performing?
While like most participating in the grade school music programs, my instrumental career started in the 5th grade – 40 years ago.
Jeremy J. Smith
Age: 50 • Hometown: Fort Dodge, IA
Instrument: Percussion
Profession: Director of Athletic Bands – Iowa Central Community College
Tell us about a couple of your most memorable performances?
One of my first weeks of the college semester, I was approached by Lance Lehmberg, the chair of the music department at Morningside College, saying that we (jazz band rhythm section) had a trio gig at the National Guard base in Sioux City. Only having participated in the school band setting, I wasn’t sure what I was getting into or what to expect. Eric Riley, the bass player, reassured me with “not to worry, we’ll tell you how fast to go.”
That was my first paying gig, and also came back to the college that night with a large meat and cheese tray. I was hooked.
Weekly jazz combo gigs at Winnavegas Casino in Sloan, IA, and soon after various dance band jobs taught me so much about playing with others, the styles and improvisation that comes in jazz and so much more.
While still in college, I was able to have a “solo scream” with the Sioux City Symphony, and was featured soloist with the Morningside Symphonic Wind Ensemble as Gerald McBoing Boing, the Dr. Seuss story.
Who has the greatest influence on you musically?
Being involved in a variety of styles and events, I’ve taken from many influences. For the individual applied percussion realm, from building “chops” to drumset styles and more, Tommy Igoe and the theories he shares from his father Sonny Igoe are a constant conversation. Jazz legend Roy Haynes passed away recently. He’s the reason I love flat ride cymbals for my drumset playing. I credit Lance Lehmberg for giving me performance opportunities and memories that I carry with me and continue today.
If you had a chance to meet any performer/musician, alive or dead, whom would you choose?
Stanton Moore. I’m still bummed that I was going to spend a weekend learning from him once and the event was cancelled. His knowledge of New Orleans – style drumming and other players is endless.
What are some of your musical accomplishments as an instructor?
All accomplishments I give credit to the students as could not do anything without them. During my time at Iowa Central, we’ve stared the Percussion Ensemble, “Legion of Boom” Drumline, and the Triton Marching Band. We also started the Triton Jazz Festival, which this year will expand to four days of bands coming to town for clinics and performances.
We don’t do what we do for ratings or trophies. The best accomplishments occur when former students share where they’ve gone in life, whether careers or family, and especially ways they’ve found to continue playing.
What is the most unusual thing to have happened to you during a show/ performance?
Have had lots of strange little things, like breaking a mallet that strikes a member of the audience, to once playing the ending of Great Gate of Kiev, and the button coming off my jacket mid-song and striking a tympani head – almost in time with the piece.
These days, where would we see you playing throughout the year?
On stage at the middle school and Oleson Park Bandshell as I play regularly with the Karl L. King Municipal Band. The last few years I’ve also begun to play “dance jobs” again, picking up a few sub gigs with the Al Welsh Orchestra . Will still pick up an occasional gig when and where they fit into the work/ life balance, but I am picky about it. I used to play regularly most weekends, but have backed down for life balance, and my old bones don’t like to cart around drums like I used to.
What has been the hardest lesson to learn when it comes to music and performing?
The harshest critic is often yourself. Even with more than adequate preparation and 100% effort into a performance, mistakes will occur. Most of the time the audience won’t even know they happened. However, you must be able to do a self-evaluation to truly understand and respect the art form.
What do you tell a student who is interested in pursuing a career in music/music education?
I often start by asking what their knowledge and work-ethic is. So many people enjoy music, and in wanting to have a career they enjoy think of music. I applaud them for that thought. However, quite often, many will experience “work takes the fun out of it” when working to music as a career. Like many paths, one needs to make a few wrong notes before properly making a chord.
Edward
TIME FOR NEW YEAR’S FINANCIAL RESOLUTIONS
Now that the calendar has flipped, it’s time for some New Year’s resolutions. You could decide you’re going to exercise more, lose weight, learn a new skill, reconnect with old friends — the possibilities are almost limitless. This year, why not add a few financial resolutions to your list?
Here are a few to consider:
Reduce your debts. It may be easier said than done, but if you can cut down on your debt load, you’ll increase your cash flow and have more money available to invest for your future. So, look for ways to lower your expenses and spending. You might find it helpful to use one of the budgeting apps available online. Boost your retirement savings. Try to put in as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan. If your salary goes up this year, you’ve got a good opportunity to increase your contributions to these retirement accounts. And once you turn 50, you can make pretax catch-up contributions for your 401(k) and traditional IRA. You might also want to review the investment mix within your 401(k) or similar plan to determine whether it’s still providing the growth potential you need, given your risk tolerance and time horizon.
Build an emergency fund. It’s generally a good idea to maintain an emergency fund containing up to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Without such a fund, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments to pay for shortterm needs, such as an expensive auto or home repair.
Keep funding your non-retirement goals. Your traditional IRA and 401(k) are good ways to save for retirement — but you likely have other goals, too, and you’ll need to save and invest for them. So, for example, if you want your children to go to college or receive some other type of post-secondary training, you might want to invest in a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan. And if you have short-term goals, such as saving for a wedding or taking an overseas vacation, you might want to put some money away in a liquid account. For a short-term goal, you don’t necessarily need to invest aggressively for growth — you just want the money to be there for you when you need it.
Review your estate plans. If you haven’t already created your estate plans, you may want to do so in 2025. Of course, if you’re relatively young, you might not think you need to have estate plans in place just yet, but life is unpredictable, and the future is not ours to see. If you have already drawn up estate plans, you may want to review them, especially if you’ve recently experienced changes in your life and family situation, such as marriage, remarriage or the addition of a new child. Because estate planning can be complex, you’ll want to work with a qualified legal professional.
You may not be able to tackle all these resolutions in 2025. But by addressing as many of them as you can, you may find that, by the end of the year, you have made progress toward your goals and set yourself on a positive course for all the years to come.
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.
