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get up to 3 medium 1-topping pizzas for $7 each

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Providing Premier client focused residential substance abuse treatment for women and women with children. Providing OWI and substance abuse evaluations outpatient substance abuse treatment services for both men and women. Outreach, collaboration and referral services for mental health, housing, education and other programs 826 1st Ave No • Fort Dodge, Iowa 515-573-3931

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Terrence Dwyer

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ADDRESS: PHONE: 713 Central Ave. (515) 574-4418 Fort Dodge, IA 50501 FAX: (515) 571-4529 Fort Dodge BUSINESS REVIEW is published monthly by The Messenger in cooperation with The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2018. Reproduction in part or in whole without the expressed written permission of Fort Dodge BUSINESS REVIEW is strictly prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by return postage. Fort Dodge BUSINESS REVIEW is not responsible for unsolicited photographs, artwork or manuscripts. The opinions expressed in editorial material are not necessarily the opinions of Fort Dodge Business Review.

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CONTENTS

Vol. 29 | Issue 7 Sept. | 2018

Cover Story

main features: 4 Q&A: Charles Clayton

every issue: 7 Ribbon Cuttings 14 United Way 16 City Connect 18 Alliance Newsletter 22 -27 A Closer Look at United Way 30 Economic Pulse 32 Financial Focus

16 SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 3

-Messenger photo by Hans Madsen Charles Clayton, executive director of Athletics For Education and Success, poses in the gym with Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way Chief Executive Officer Randy Kuhlman, at left, program coordinator Amy Bruno and this year’s campaign chair, Mike Johnson, right.

Q&A CHARLES CLAYTON WITH

executive director of AFES

thletics For Education and Success, known as AFES, is one of the many entities supported by the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way. AFES provides after-school and sports programming for children in the community. Executive Director Charles Clayton spoke about what AFES does for the community as well as how the Community Foundation and United Way supports AFES.

Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE AFES? Clayton: If you think of a traditional YMCA and Boys and Girls Club, and you mix them together and put them on steroids, that’d be AFES, because we do a little bit of everything. Transportation and feeding kids, feeding families, buying sports equipment if they need it, etc.

4 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Q&A WITH CHARLES CLAYTON Q: IN WHAT WAYS DOES AFES BENEFIT THE COMMUNITY OF FORT DODGE? Clayton: We’re providing a service for low-income, at-risk minority youth, but also maybe families that are just looking for a more affordable option, or a different option when it comes to maybe sports, or day care, or after-school programs. It’s another valuable option for parents and families here in Fort Dodge.

Q: HOW IS AFES SUPPORTED FINANCIALLY? Clayton: We get grants, local businesses. And those grants are both citywide, statewide, national grants, United Way and Community Foundation being one of those grants we get every year. But there’s grants throughout the United States we apply for every year. And then probably about 10 to 15 percent is actually parent fees. Otherwise, the faith community her in Fort Dodge/Webster County has always been very good to us, the business community here has been very good to us, and then we do some local fundraiseres, things like that.

Q: IN WHAT WAYS HAS THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND UNITED WAY HELPED AFES OVER THE YEARS? Clayton: Since we started — and this would have been back with Laurie Hagie — the United Way and Community Foundation has been instrumental in just making sure AFES had the funding that we needed. They fund gaps sometimes, if there was a shortcoming here or there that we know that we need some extra funds for, we’re trying to spearhead a new program. They’ve always been right there to help us out.

Q: WHERE WOULD AFES BE IF IT DIDN’T HAVE THE SUPPORT OF ORGANIZATIONS SUCH AS THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND UNITED WAY? Clayton: Without the support of Fort Dodge, Webster County in general — that’s counting the Community Foundation, United Way, all the businesses here, individuals here, churches here — we wouldn’t be in business. We don’t get any federal funding. A lot of people wonder how we can build a $1 million gymnasium and have a program that we can see up to 100 kids a day and not get any federal funding. It’s because this community takes care of us. And again, that’s between the businesses here in town, the faith community here in town, Fort Dodge and Webster County. They take care of AFES, and then we, in turn, can take care of the families and youth here in the community. SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 5

Fort Dodge Community School District and United Way: Working together to support our kids and families!

TIRE SALES & SERVICE Courtesy Car Available Check Out Our Everyday Low Prices on a Huge Selection of Name Brand Tires! Tire Rotation & Balancing • Computerized Wheel Alignment Oil & Filter Change Service • Complete Brake Service Courtesy Car Available For When You Have No Transportation.

www.fdschools.org 515-576-1161 104 South 17th Street

1903 1st Avenue North, Fort Dodge 515-955-5828

6 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

RIBBON t Homespun collection Congratulations to Homespun Collection on their recent ribbon cutting! They are a family owned business that offers one of kind furniture, home decor, clothing and

accessories.

They

are

located at 25 S 12th St. Cutting the ribbon is Owner, Bonnie Gerdes.

Main Street Fort dodge

Congratulations to Main Street Fort Dodge on their recent ribbon cutting! Main Street Fort Dodge is playing a pivotal role in the revitalization of the downtown area. The Growth Alliance is grateful for their partnership and investment in the betterment of the community. Cutting the ribbon alongside Kris Patrick (Executive Director), is board president, Jim Bird.

SEPTEMBER 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION â&#x20AC;˘ 7

“Helping the world thrive” ®

Sales•SERVICE•Rentals

Providing the Highest Quality Water Treatment Products and Services to Fort Dodge Since 1949.

Softening Puri�ication Iron Removal Salt Delivery

www.fdwater.com • 576-6481 • 612 S 32nd St, Fort Dodge

8 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Addiction Treatment & Prevention Services for Adults & Adolescents

515-576-7261 866-801-0085

www.cfrhelps.org

Committed to Fort Dodge for Over 85 Years! 515-576-4141 • www.deckertruckline.com SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 9

Caring for

Kids

Every child deserves to have a chance for a healthy and happy life — to grow up with a true sense of hope for a bright future. This is a foundational principle of United Way of Greater Fort Dodge. United Way helps children from disadvantaged families that are coping with the challenges of poverty. United Way works with its partner agencies and local schools to help youth break out of the cycle of poverty that has overwhelmed their families. United Way funds touch the lives of hundreds of youth each year and making a real impact — even a life-changing impact for many of children, adolescents and teens. United Way support is focused on helping all youth reach their full potential by helping them: • Achieve in school • Meet basic needs for shelter, food, medical care and mental health services • Participate in enrichment and positive youth development activities An important measure of the quality of our community is how committed we are to investing in our youth so they will have opportunities to thrive and enjoy a brighter future. Please support the United Way campaign this year.

United Way of

Every dollar donated stays in the Fort Dodge area.

Greater Fort Dodge 24 North 9th Street Suite B Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 515-573-3179 10 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Giving Card Donate $150 or more to the United Way campaign and receive the Giving Card The United Way Giving Card offers attractive discounts at more than 70 local businesses, including your favorite restaurants, retail shops, services for your home and car, and much; much more. And, these discounts are available all year long. Visit our website to get a list of all the discounts: www.unitedwayfd.org

Not only will you receive this exciting Giving Card – but your donation will be used to help underprivileged youth in our community

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 11

Wheels for

Work

Do you have a car that you no longer need?

Please consider donating your vehicle and help a local struggling family that has no transportation You can help a struggling family that has no car or personal transportation

1,2,3

It’s as Easy as

1. Contact Fort Dodge Ford Toyota 515-576-7505 to schedule your vehicle donation 2. Bring your vehicle to Fort Dodge Ford Toyota 3. Fort Dodge Ford handles all the paperwork and provides you with a charitable tax donation document United Way of Greater Fort Dodged identifies and verifies a family in need and the vehicle donation is completed! Thanks to a generous donor, the local hard-working family with four children now has reliable transportation.

12 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Wheels for Work

Helping families that need transportation One of the biggest challenges for a low-income family is owning a car. The cost of purchasing a car, licensing it, paying for maintenance and gasoline can be a financial challenge that is just too much for a struggling family. Most of us get in our car every day to drive to work, take children to school, go to a doctor’s appointment or run many other errands. We all take for granted the luxury of having personal transportation, a luxury that many families in our community do not have. There are numerous young families that just cannot afford a vehicle. Families that don’t have a vehicle often struggle to get their children to appointments or extracurricular activities. This often causes their kids to miss out. These parents and their children often walk to the grocery store, to school and even to work. Not having a car makes the challenges of raising a young family extremely difficult. It also makes it difficult for a parent to get and keep a job if he or she lacks personal transportation. This is why United Way of Greater Fort Dodge administers the Wheels for Work program. In partnership with Fort Dodge Ford Toyota, the Wheels for Work program accepts donated vehicles and then gives them to qualified families that are in desperate need of a car. Fort Dodge Ford Toyota assesses each donated car and services the vehicle to make sure that it is in safe and good running condition before it is given to an eligible family. Families are referred to the United Way program by agencies that are working closely with families that have children and have verified the need for transportation. United Way funds are used to cover costs associated with this important program. It begins with people willing to donate a used vehicle they no longer need. Many vehicle donors donate their used car when they

are purchasing a newer one and their used car doesn’t have significant trade-in value. If you wish to help a disadvantaged family and make a very positive difference in their life, please consider the option of donating your used car to the Wheels for Work program. All donations are tax deductible.

Donating a car is a very simple process. ∫ Take the vehicle to Fort Dodge Ford Toyota. ∫ Fort Dodge Ford Toyota handles the title transfer and donation documentation. ∫ Fort Dodge Ford Toyota checks the vehicle for necessary repairs and, if there are any, per forms them as a donation to the Wheels for Work program. ∫ United Way finds an eligible family and transfers the donated vehicle. If you have a used vehicle that you no longer need, please consider helping a local family by donating your vehicle to the Wheels for Work program. It can make a life-changing difference for a family with children. For more information, contact Amy Bruno at United Way, (515) 573-3180.

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 13

Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

by RANDY KUHLMAN

United Way

is here for a reason

There are a number of reasons why supporting United Way of Greater Fort Dodge makes good sense for our community. Research has shown that in communities like Fort Dodge, over half of the youth will grow up and spend their entire lives in that same community. This means the youth in Fort Dodge today will have an impactful role in the social and economic future of our town and region. They will be our future employees, leaders and parents. A small investment in their well-being today can pay big rewards later. Our local businesses and industries will need highly-skilled workers. If they can’t find them in Fort Dodge and the region, they will go

“

elsewhere. In order to meet the workforce needs and keep these businesses in our community, we must ensure that our future workforce is educated, skilled and prepared to fill these important jobs. To that end, it is imperative that we, as individuals and as a community, invest in the academic and social development of our youth. Statistics show that close to 25 percent of our youth live in poverty-stricken families or families that are close to poverty. So the common question is, “How does helping disadvantaged children and lowincome families benefit our community for the long-term?” The long answer is complex and multifaceted. But in simple terms, the answer is, when communities neglect their poor, social ills continue to grow and eventually become blight on their communities. These social ills include increases in crime, drug abuse, teen pregnancy, and unemployment; property becomes run down and dilapidated, educational systems suffer, health care services become overburdened with charity care, and the social service agencies become overwhelmed. This perpetuates a downward cycle that becomes difficult to reverse.

“

nited Way is all about neighbors helping neighbors. One hundred percent of every donated dollar to the United Way campaign stays in our community to support critical organizations, projects and programs to help our youth and our neighbors who are in need of a helping hand.

Statistics show that close to 25 percent of our youth live in poverty-stricken families or families that are close to poverty.

14 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Randy Kuhlman is the chief executive officer for the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way

The majority of children who live at or close to the poverty level rarely come close to reaching their full potential academically or developmentally, because they have to deal with so much stress and dysfunction in their lives. This impacts their ability to learn, grow and develop with a sense of optimism for their future and can keep them trapped in a cycle of poverty. The future of our community requires that we come together to help support our disadvantaged youth with programs and opportunities for educational, social and emotional growth. In doing so, these youth may be able to break their family’s cycle of poverty and become the catalyst for positive change within their family, among their friends and within the community. Working closing with our partner human service agencies, United Way of Greater Fort Dodge strives to effectively and efficiently target our charitable dollars to make the biggest impact possible. One thing is for sure — this charitable support from caring citizens will be used in ways that will touch the lives of hundreds of children and teens in our community. Yes, United Way is here for a reason; to be a catalyst for strengthening our community and building a brighter future for our youth. After all, our youth are 20 percent of our population, but they are 100 percent of our future.

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 15

FORT DODGE

city connect Recycling 101

by Anne Kersten

Brett Daniel, director; Doug Barkema, operations manager, Nancy Rork, administrative assistant

My eyes were opened after interviewing some of Fort Dodge’s talented Public Works employees. There’s a lot more to recycling than you would ever believe. As the picture indicates here, they advised what not to put in your recycle cart as much as what to put in the cart. Public Works Director Brett Daniel, administrative assistant Nancy Rork and Operations Manager Doug Barkema all agreed that people are not recycling like they should be.

They stressed the importance of not putting plastic bags filled with recycling in the blue topped carts. “Small little bags can be a nightmare,” Rork added. “They get caught in the machine...it’s just very very hard.” She added that the small plastic bags can be returned to all grocery stores in the area. “It’s getting to the point where people’s recycling will not be picked up if the driver can see that there is something in the cart that shouldn’t be,” added Daniel. He said there are Public Works staff that

16 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Fort Dodge City Connect do spot checks all to make sure the properly filled. “If something that we up, we won’t.”

over town carts are they see can’t pick

behind or next to where a vehicle is,” said Rork. “It cannot be reached with the automated trucks.” She said if a neighbor or someone is parking in front of or next to your cart, please

Do Recycle: • Recyclable plastic containers • Metal cans/tin cans/jar lids/foil • Newspapers with no plastic wrap • Junk mail, Catalogs, Phone Books • Wrapping paper • Shredded papers inside cardboard box or paper bag and sealed shut • Magazine without wrappers • Flattened cereal/snack boxes, pop or beer cartons and cardboards • Glass botles such as wine bottles, pickle jars, spaghetti sauce, etc. • Plastic grocery bags - do not use to bag up other recyclables, only other bags. (Bags can also be returned to grocery store bins)

Pizza boxes? No, they cannot be put in the carts, “unless the box has no food or grease whatsoever, they cannot be put in the carts,” Rork said. The importance of where the cart is placed on the curb cannot be emphasized enough. “I encourage people to please not place their cart

In conclusion, Daniel had high praises for both Rork and Barkema and all they do. “I can’t say enough about the drivers. They do a wonderful job.”

Do NOT Recycle: • All plastic package wraps especially food items such as meat • Tyvek or padded brown envelops • Paper Towels, napkins or tissue paper • Ceramic materials • Styrofoam (goes in garbage) • Clothing, shoes, boots, towels, rags, blankets, afghans, etc. • Food Waste • Yard Waste • Hazardous Items (spray paint, ect.) • Small appliances (vacuums, radios, ect.) • Computer or associated equipment • Furniture, patio equipment, garden hose • Tires of any kind, bicycle tire inner tubes • Wood of any kind, Scrap Metal * This is not a full comprehensive list

speak with them. “Carts must have at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides.” Barkema added, “Please remember to not overfill the carts. We will not empty them if the lid does not close.” Daniel stressed, “Some items do not belong in the carts. For example yard waste, tree branches, weeds, garden plants...cannot be put in the carts.” SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 17

2 0 1 8 7 The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance SEPTEMBER 2018

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

STAFF Dennis Plautz CEO

dennis@greaterfortdodge.com

Kelly Halsted

Economic Development Director kelly@greaterfortdodge.com

Jill Nelson

Community Development Director jill@greaterfortdodge.com

Skyla Porter

Organizational Administrator skyla@greaterfortdodge.com

Kate Stucky

Office Manager kate@greaterfortdodge.com

Jon Shields

Communications Specialist jon@greaterfortdodge.com

N E WS Leadership Fort Dodge Now in its 14th year, Leadership Fort Dodge has provided participants the opportunity to learn about our community through professional presentations, tours of businesses and agencies, and interaction with local and state leaders. Since its inception, more than 300 individuals have completed the course. MISSION: A leadership program designed to develop leaders who are informed, dynamic, qualified, and motivated. PURPOSE: Leadership Fort Dodge is a broad-based, interactive experience that seeks to shape future leaders by providing them with the background information and tools to become a positive force in our community.

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.”

18 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • September 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018

Alliance News BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Mike Dewerff VICE PRESIDENT Dr. Dan Kinney BOARD MEMBERS

Availa Bank Beisser Lumber Bemrich Electric and Telephone Best Western Starlite Village Inn & Suites and Buford’s Steakhouse & BBQ Blue Ribbon Pelham Waters C & S Products Cargill Cemstone Concrete Materials Citizen’s Community Credit Union City of Fort Dodge CJ Bio America, Inc. Decker Truck Line First American Bank First Presbyterian Church First State Bank Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way Fort Dodge Convention & Visitors Bureau Fort Dodge Ford Toyota Friendship Haven Gowrie Development Commission Great Western Bank Gunderson Funeral Home Homebuilders Association Humes Distributing Iowa Central Community College Johnson, Kramer, Mulholland, Cochrane, Driscoll & Cochrane, P.L.C. McClure Engineering MidAmerican Energy Mid Country Machinery Inc. Nestle Purina PetCare NEW Cooperative Northwest Bank RoJohn Home Improvement Shimkat Motors Spin Markket / O’Hern Trucking The Messenger TKG Holdings, LLC Town & Country Insurance United Bank of Iowa UnityPoint Health Webster County Weitz Industrial, LLC. Wells Fargo Bank White Transfer and Storage Woodruff Construction

Leadership Fort Dodge (cont’d) Starting in September and ending in May, the members of the Leadership Fort Dodge class spend one full business day (the second Thursday of each month) examining specific topics and aspects of the community. Participants have the opportunity to meet and interact with city, county, and state leaders. The insights participants gain as they network and explore the inner workings of the community, serve as a foundation for increased involvement in the greater Fort Dodge area in a variety of leadership roles. Participants will gain personal and professional skills that increase their effectiveness within their community and business environment. Below is the list of participants for Leadership Fort Dodge 2018-19. Eric Anderson - Blanden Memorial Art Museum Baleigh Ashbrook - Woodruff Construction Josh Carmody - New Covenant Christian Church Jake Crimmins - UnityPoint Health — Trinity Regional Medical Center Ted DuBois - McClure Engineering Company Erika Earp - Fort Dodge Public Library Lynsey Fraser - KHI Solutions Erica Helmers - KHI Solutions Sara Hill - First Presbyterian Church Tiffany Jones - Fort Dodge Family Credit Union Ryan Kehm - Crimmins & Kehm Law Firm Emily Lawler - First State Bank Tyler Lentz - UnityPoint Health — Trinity Regional Medical Center Jordon McCubbin - Fort Frenzy Maria Monahan - UnityPoint Health Gayle Moore - Webster County Public Health Molly Nelson - Fort Dodge Community Schools Foundation Jennifer Nobiling - Friendship Haven Cindy Partlow - Webster County Public Health Kris Patrick - Main Street Fort Dodge Jesseca Pirie - Great Western Bank David Schiefelbein - McClure Engineering Company Trevor Schmitt - Prairie Lakes Church Dawn Siebken - City of Fort Dodge John Sigler - Fort Dodge Regional Airport Tom Ubben - Fort Dodge Fire Department Jason Vandi - Fort Dodge Fire Department Melissa Vorrie - Iowa Central Community College Paige Wheeler - City of Fort Dodge Michael (Chris) Wilson - Shimkat Motor Company Matt Worthen - Decker Truck Line, Inc. SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 19

Alliance News Downtown Country Jam 2018 shellabration presents

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Historic downtown Fort Dodge, September 22nd

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Shellabration is excited to announce Granger Smith (featuring his alter ego Earl Dibbles Jr.) SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, Downtown 2018 â&#x20AC;¢ Gates open at 5:30pM as headliner for the second annual Country Jam on Saturday, September 22nd historic Downtown Fort Dodge (Central ave & 9th street) in Historic Downtown Fort Dodge. Rounding out the lineup will be Iowa country music artist $20 UNTIL SepT. 9 â&#x20AC;¢ $25 begINNINg SepT. 10 â&#x20AC;¢ KIdS 12 & UNder Free Cody Hicks and perennial Fort Dodge favorites, Salty View Acoustic Review. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DCJ tiCkets: hY-Vee, Citizens CoMMUntiY CreDit Union, northWest bank, Great Western bank, aVaila bank, tiCketWeb.CoM, (866) 468-3401 SpoNSored by promises to be even bigger than last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event that drew just over 3,400! pM You can purchase tickets locally for $25 at the following locations: Fort Dodge Hyvee, treet) Citizenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Credit Union, Availa Bank, Northwest Bank and Great Western Bank. & UNder Free iCketWeb.CoM, (866) 468-3401 RASCH They will be available for purchase at the gate for $30. Kids 12 & under are admitted free.

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adoptive parent from active families and Four Oaks Family Connections! Ask questions, hear first-hand stories, talk with other parents, network and learn! The event will be hosted at Prairie Lakes Church (200 Ave. O). The free event will also include kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities, food and family fun! It is sponsored by Four Oaks Family Connections, Shimkat Motor Company and Prairie Lakes Church. DR. JIM & ANN MEYER

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For more information, call 515-291-4071.

GOWRIE DOWNTOWN MARKET Make plans to head to Gowrie and enjoy the Downtown Market! On Thursday, September 27th from 4:00-8:00 pm you will have the opportunity to enjoy numerous vendors, live music, and delicious food. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not able to attend the September market, then mark your calendars for the third and final market on October 25th. 20 â&#x20AC;¢ FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION â&#x20AC;¢ SEPTEMBER 2018

Alliance News EMPLOYMENT LAW You won’t want to miss out on this extremely valuable opportunity to be updated on the latest information pertaining to employment law. Stu Cochrane has years of experience in Employment Law and will provide valuable insight and practical knowledge for small and large business alike. If you would like to participate, please RSVP to Lynn Pedersen at lpedersen@qpsemployment.com or to Jill Nelson at jill@greaterfortdodge.com

ELECTION FORUM

NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Homespun Collection: Homespun Collection is a family-owned and operated business featuring custom-made furniture, farmhouse home decor, and gifts. We also have many unique clothing pieces and accessories in our P48 Boutique. We were located in the Crossroads Mall for 13 years and recently moved to the downtown area in March 2018. Our new address is 25 S. 12th Street.

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 21

United to Read and Succeed The ability to read effectively can be the difference between success and disappointment in life. Lacking vital reading skills holds people back at every stage of life.

As children, they aren’t able to succeed at school; as adults they are locked out of the job market, and as parents they aren’t able to support their own child’s learning. The children of parents with low reading and literacy skills are likely to be at the lowest levels themselves. For these children, this often leads to poorer grades, disruptive behavior, high absentee rates, and high drop-out rates. The intergenerational cycle of low reading ability makes social mobility and breaking the cycle of poverty almost impossible. Educational research indicates that children who are not proficient readers by the end of third grade are much more likely to struggle academically and not reach their full learning potential. Helping our youth reach their full potential academically and developmentally requires that they become proficient readers. Leaders in education understand that from birth through third grade, children learn to read; from fourth grade and throughout the rest of their lives, they read to learn. Students at all grade levels, as well as adults, can learn to read proficiently. In our fast-paced, ever-changing world today, everyone must become proficient readers in order to succeed. The mastery

of reading requires developing four interconnected component skills: decoding, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. Building these skills is important, but simply put, becoming a proficient reader takes practice. The more you read, the better reader you will become. That is why getting books in the hands of kids, adolescents, teens, and even adults, is so important. National studies indicate that 61 percent of low-income families do not have one book in their home. To this end, United Way of Greater Fort Dodge sponsors the Fort Dodge Little Free Library program with the goal of getting books in the hands of people. There are 14 Little Free Libraries in Fort Dodge. The philosophy of the program is “Take a Book, Leave a Book.” Anyone can help themselves to a book and enjoy reading it. It is a simple and free way to bring the enjoyment of reading to our community. Little Free Libraries can be found at locations around Fort Dodge including almost every park and elementary school. Check out our website at littlefreelibraryfd.com. The Joy of Reading program, started by Katie Averill in memory of her daughter Emily, is now managed by United Way. It provides free books to children. The JoyMobile has distributed thousands of free books to kids over the summer — at sporting events, church events, camps and a myriad of children’s activities. The JoyMobile is the first Little Free Library on wheels in the world. We have a large inventory of donated books that are continually used to restock the JoyMobile and the Little Free Libraries with the goal of bringing the Joy of Reading to all in our community.

22 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Offering OurKids A Bright Future Comments from the campaign chair If you’re like me, it is hard to imagine a child living in our community today who lacks hope for a better life. Every child deserves to have a chance for a healthy and happy life — to grow up with a true sense of hope for a bright future. This is a foundational principle of United Way of Greater Fort Dodge. This year, I have the privilege of serving as the chairperson for this year’s United Way campaign. Our 2018-2019 campaign has kicked off and our theme is “Offering our Kids a Brighter Future.” As a board member of the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way, I donate to the United Way campaign because I have seen the impact that United Way funds have on underprivileged children in our community; in some cases, in life-changing ways. Too many children in the Fort Dodge area are coping with the challenges of living in poverty-stricken homes. United Way support is focused on providing these kids a “helping hand” so they can overcome the hurdles they face every day. Today in Fort Dodge, 25 percent of our youth live at or close to poverty and another 40 percent live in families that struggle to meet basic living expenses. The hurdles these youth have to overcome are enormous. Many of these kids grow up in homes where housing is unstable, nutritious food is scarce, abuse and neglect are common, depression is pervasive, and resources for health care, clothing and transportation are very limited.

As a businessman and lifelong Fort Dodge citizen, I believe an important measure of the quality of our community is how committed we are to investing in our youth. We know that at least half of the youth in Fort Dodge will never leave the area. They will be our future workforce and our future parents, community and business leaders. This year’s campaign goal is $425,000. One hundred percent of every dollar donated stays right here in our community. United Way supports more than 25 agencies and programs that provide services to children and their families each year. These programs and services are focused on a wide range of basic needs for children, adolescents and teens that address such challenges as fighting hunger, preventing homelessness, increasing access to medical services and mental health care, supporting education, advancing positive youth development and much more. This year, I hope you will join me in supporting the United Way campaign. Be it $50, $100, or $500, your support will be pooled with the contributions of hundreds of others to make a real difference in the lives of underprivileged youth, offering them hope for a better and brighter future. Mike Johnson, campaign chair

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 23

Fighting hunger In Fort

Dodge and are unable to consistently access nutritious and adequate amounts of food necessary for a healthy life.

Most of us have seen the television ads about fighting hunger in various poverty-stricken nations around the world. It is a tragic problem, yet, we often don’t realize that hunger exists right here in Fort Dodge. It doesn’t matter if you live in an urban, suburban or rural setting — hunger has no boundaries. Nutrition experts agree that good nutrition and having enough food to eat is important in establishing a good foundation that has implications for a child’s future physical and mental health, academic achievement, and economic productivity. Unfortunately, food insecurity is an obstacle that threatens that critical foundation. In fact, research has shown that children who are food insecure: ∫ Are more likely to become ill and require hospitalization. ∫ Are at a higher risk for chronic health problems. ∫ Are more likely to fall behind in their academic development c ompared to other children. Hunger in America and in our community can be an invisible problem, meaning that children right in our own neighborhoods can be food insecure, and we wouldn’t even know it. These food insecure children do not always know where they will find their next meal

For Fort Dodge and Webster County, the percentage of children that are food insecure is close to 17 percent. This means that one in six children in Iowa are not getting enough food to eat. Right here in Fort Dodge, the “bread basket of the world,” we have more than 1,000 children that aren’t getting the nutrition they need to thrive. In fact, we have children that go to bed at night hungry and wake up hungry in the morning with no food in their home. By working together, United Way of Greater Fort Dodge is trying to change this very heartrending statistic in our community. United Way funds from our campaign are granted to various organizations and programs in our community that are working diligently to help children who are living in food insecure homes. We work with our local food pantries, our schools, the Backpack Buddies program, and other programs to help address this issue. We also have a food voucher program for families that find themselves in an emergency situation and are in desperate need of food. All of us want Fort Dodge to be a vital community; a place where citizens have an ingrained sense of connectedness, resourcefulness, resiliency and concern for the welfare of youth. We know Fort Dodge has these qualities. Citizens that understand this challenge of hunger can help by supporting this year’s United Way campaign. Who knows — your support might help a hungry child living in your neighborhood.

24 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Helping OurKidsSucceed

There is only one thing that proves to be more expensive than education in life; the lack of it. For our children to succeed in today’s fast-changing world, getting a good education is absolutely critical. We all understand that a good education is a foundational part of life. Without it, success in life will be almost impossible. A good education helps a young person develop personally, socially and economically. It gives them the necessary skills and knowledge to earn a good wage and gain a higher standard of life. A good education enables people to use critical thinking skills while making important life decisions. It is a gateway that opens up their creative and imaginative capabilities. Life gives all of us various challenges. However, education combined with character gives young people the ability to cope with obstacles and overcome the challenges that life will bring. With this understanding, United Way of Greater Fort Dodge places the education of our youth at the top of our priority list. The future of our community lies in today’s youth here in Fort Dodge and the surrounding region. In order for our youth to succeed in today’s fast-changing, globalized world, they have to achieve in school. That is a must. And, for children in poverty-stricken families, getting a good education is the vehicle that will help them break out of the cycle of poverty that has entangled their families. United Way of Greater Fort Dodge supports a number of programs that are focused on helping our youth achieve in school so they will have productive adult lives. Preschool and after school programs are extremely important. We help support the Dodger Academy after school program, the St. Edmond After

School Program and the Community Early Childhood Center. Youth mentoring is a proven activity that can positively impact lives of at-risk youth. United Way provides support for the BRIDGES Mentoring Program with the Fort Dodge Community Schools. In addition, we provide financial support for the Credit Restoration Program at Fort Dodge Senior High. This program provides students who have fallen behind on their academic credits the chance to catch up by taking online academic classes after school to earn the credits they need to graduate from high school. United Way also provides basic needs assistance for kids from poverty-stricken families. These basic needs may include assistance for housing and preventing homelessness, assistance for food, clothing, access to medical or mental health services, and support for many other services. If a child’s basic needs are not being met, his or her ability to learn is greatly diminished. United Way of Greater Fort Dodge is committed to helping our youth reach their full potential by getting the education they will need to become productive and contributing members of our community. A good education will provide them with a strong foundation for personal growth. Without it, our children won’t gain the knowledge, the skills or the understanding they will need to become successful in their careers or as productive citizens and parents.

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 25

Helping Hand for the Working poor

The 2018 ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) Report details a national study conducted by United Way of America that conducted extensive research on the percentage of people in every state of our nation that fall into the category of “the working poor.” This means people who are working as many hours per week as they can but still fall short on making enough money to pay for their monthly basic living expenses. For the state of Iowa, this report has found that 37 percent of households are unable to afford the state’s cost of living. In Webster County, 44 percent of households struggle to meet their basic living needs. In the city of Fort Dodge, this percentage is 49 percent. The ALICE Report shows that meeting basic living expenses in Webster County, a family of four would need to have an annual household income of $55,224. In the majority of these households that do not meet this threshold, people are working, but are not able to make enough income to pay for all of their basic living expenses. This report spotlights those who work at low-paying jobs, have little to no savings and are considered one emergency away from falling into poverty. About 16 percent of households in Webster County live at or below the Federal Poverty Level and an additional 28 percent — while considered above the poverty threshold — are unable to pay for all of their basic living expenses such as rent or mortgage payment, utilities, food, clothing, transportation, child care, health care, insurance, and taxes. For the youth in Webster County, more than 60 percent live in households that struggle to meet all of their monthly basic living expenses. Often times, it is the children who suffer the most when their families experience financial challenges. Despite stronger labor markets with record low unemployment rates, the number

of people included in the working poor has remained stubbornly constant over the past 10 years. And the probability of becoming a member of the working poor is dangerously high because increases in wages for working people remains relatively sluggish while the cost of living is increasing each year. The ALICE Report really shows that many families are struggling, even if they’re hard-working and trying to make the best of their lives every day. The fact that these numbers are increasing indicates that despite low unemployment rates, earning enough income to meet basic living needs is still a big issue in Iowa, and more specifically, Fort Dodge and Webster County. United Way of Greater Fort Dodge is focused on helping children in their families that fall into the category of the “working poor” and are struggling to remain financially stable and self-sufficient. Having strong, stable families is a foundational building block for a strong and vibrant community. United Way campaign funds support a number of programs and services that are helping these families in their time of need.

26 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

“

There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.

“

John Holmes

Having the

Vision To Learn Vision and learning are intimately related. In fact, experts say that roughly 80 percent of what a child learns in school is information that is presented visually. Whether it is seeing the board in the front of the classroom, or reading a book or a computer at their desk, good vision can make all the difference in the world for a child.

Studies by the American Optometric Association indicate that when vision problems go undetected, children almost invariably have trouble reading and doing their schoolwork. In the classroom, they often display fatigue, fidgeting, frustrations and even disruptive behavior — traits that can lead to a misdiagnosis of dyslexia or other learning disabilities. The Vision Council of America states that an estimated 80 percent of children with a learning disability have an undiagnosed vision problem. Education and public health experts agree that, on average, 25 percent of elementary school children have visual problems that are serious enough to impede learning. In the Fort Dodge elementary schools, there are about 1,330 students and it is estimated that more than 325 students need corrective lenses. It is also estimated that more than 160 of these students in kindergarten through fourth grade lack the corrective lenses they need to see properly. Most of the time this is due to their family not have

the financial ability to pay for an eye exam and the needed glasses. Providing young students with the glasses they need for 20-20 vision will make a significant difference in their ability to learn. Because of this critical need, United Way of Greater Fort Dodge has contracted with the Vision to Learn organization to provide glasses for low-income children who are going without the corrective lenses they need. Children who have vision issues and qualify based on the income of their family can receive free eye exams and glasses. All students in kindergarten through fourth grade will be given a free eye exam. The students from low income families that indicate subpar vision will be given a free eye exam by a certified optometrist to determine the need for corrective lenses. If the student needs glasses but cannot afford them, they will be fitted with two pairs of glasses; one for school and one for them to use at home. One of United Way’s highest priorities is helping youth achieve their fullest potential in school. For all youth, getting a good education is crucial — without it, success in life will be almost impossible. United Way, in partnership with Vision to Learn and the Fort Dodge Community Schools, is bringing enhanced “vision and focus” to the interrelationship between good vision and academic achievement, so all students can see 20-20 and achieve academically to their full capability.

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 27

Meals onWheels helping the hidden hungry

Can you imagine being home alone, 24 hours a day, with very little or no interaction with other people and not having the physical ability to prepare a meal for yourself?

This scenario is not an uncommon one in Fort Dodge. There are many frail, elderly seniors living in their homes, alone, and are coping with food insecurity and a lack of personal safety. Many of these seniors are living in our neighborhoods and we often don’t even realize their plight. This is why United Way reconstituted the Meals on Wheels program in Fort Dodge. A nutritious meal delivered with a warm smile and a safety check has made a positive impact in the lives of the elderly and other homebound individuals in our community. Since delivering the first meal on March 1, 2017, gracious Meals on Wheels volunteers have delivered more than 12,000 meals to a vulnerable, and often overlooked, population in our community. Meals on Wheels plays an important role in allowing frail, elderly seniors to remain in their homes while maintaining, or in some instances improving, their quality of life. Meal recipients ap-

preciate a warm, nutritious meal delivered by volunteers that also offer them some social interaction and a safety check. A Meals on Wheels volunteer may be the only person the meal recipient talks to that day s or they might be the first person to discover a fall or health problem and can quickly get help. There have been instances when a Meals on Wheels volunteer has discovered a meal recipient on the floor because she fell, was injured and unable to get up. All meals are priced on a sliding fee scale in order to make it affordable for everyone. No one is denied service for lack of resources. More than 65 percent of recipients receive meals free or at a reduced cost. The Fort Dodge Hy-Vee is a great partner and the food provider for our Meals on Wheels program. Meals on Wheels in Fort Dodge does not receive government assistance, and relies solely on the generous support of the community for volunteers and for funding. Volunteers deliver meals Monday through Friday and it doesn’t take long — only an hour a day for a few weeks out of the year. Volunteers often say it is the best hour of their day. Contributions, volunteers, and referrals are always welcome and much appreciated. To refer a recipient or inquire about volunteering, contact Barbara Michaels, program coordinator, at (515) 570-0965, or bjmichaels@frontiernet.net. Contributions to Meals on Wheels Fort Dodge can be made to United Way of Greater Fort Dodge at 24 N. Ninth St., Suite B, Fort Dodge, IA 50501.

28 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

Manufacturing Day Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufactures. The purpose of the day is 1. To inspire the next generation by showing how they can make a difference through manufacturing, 2. Give guidance on how to take the first step toward starting a career in modern manufacturing, 3. Make it clear that manufacturers need the next generation, 4. Show students, parents and educators the opportunity, creativity, possibility and accomplishment that comes with a career in manufacturing. This year it lands on October 5th. There will be thousands of events throughout the nation celebrating and recognizing manufacturing. In fact, C&S Products will open its doors to students on a to be determined day in October to provide tours of their facility. So what does manufacturing mean to Webster County and the region? There are 2,442 employed in the manufacturing sector in 2018 which is a 7% growth over the last 5 years. Webster County’s manufacturing employment is growing faster than the State of Iowa, which grew only 2%. That stated, Iowa has the third largest percentage, 8.4%, in the nation working in the manufacturing sector behind Wisconsin (9.3%) and Indiana (9.0%) respectively.

are higher than Iowa and the US employee. The average earnings of a person working in manufacturing employed in Webster County is $85,555 and $73,377 in Iowa, demonstrating manufacturing jobs in Webster County are great paying jobs! Now, from what sectors in Webster County are these jobs? Below is a graphic of the manufacturing sectors in which make up our Gross Regional Product (GRP). Gross Regional Product is the market value of the final goods and services in Webster County. Yes, you read it correctly, almost 50% of Webster County comes from the pharmaceutical industry. This sector would be classified under companies like Elanco and AML Riverside. Basic Chemical Manufacturing would be attributed to companies like Poet, Valero and Cargill, which manufacture ethanol or a petrochemical. One manufacturing sector that didn’t quite reach the top 10 in Webster County, Ship and Boat Building – Misty Harbor, contributes to over 30% of the state’s overall GRP. So next time you see a friend or relative who works in the manufacturing sector, pat them on the back and thank them for their contribution to our region’s economy. Sources: EMSI, US Census Bureau and National Association of Manufacturers.

What is even more important to point out is that Webster County wages in the manufacturing sector on average

SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 29

Your

business connection in Fort Dodge

business CONNECTION Contact us today to advertise! Call 515.573.2141 Ext. 418 or email TWinninger@messengernews.net

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30 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

955-4190

Business Connection Economic Pulse Mortgage Interest Rates

M A M

A M

4.725 4.275

4.5 4.25

4% 4.675 4.275

Source: Edward Jones Rates average of those reported by Fort Dodge financial institutions

4.725 4.20

30 Year Fixed 15 Year Fixed

4.55 4.10

100

125

140

150

4.475 4.075

Building Permits

Airline Boardings

Auto & Truck Sales

M A M

73 30

68 34

78 26

94 39

25 54 23

691

M A M

712

50 687

600 699

668

800

688

100

200

Cars Source: Webster County Motor Vehicle Dept. Trucks

125

152 37

Source: Fort Dodge Regional Airport

1000

400

FORT DODGE

CONNECTION

Source: Fort Dodge Planning Office

1200

Monthly in your Messenger

To advertise in the Business Review Call Tricia at 515-574-4418 twinninger@messengernews.net Special issues and holidays may have early deadlines. Editorial calendar subject to change.

Stocks. Bonds. CDs. IRAs. Mutual funds. MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING William D Kent, AAMS® Financial Advisor

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SEPTEMBER 2018 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 31

Edward Jones Financial Focus

IS YOUR

“DIGITAL ESTATE”

IN ORDER? If you spend a lot of time on the internet, you’re not just shopping or being entertained, or following the news or participating in an online community. You’re probably also dealing with accounts and information that eventually can become part of your digital “estate.” And if this estate isn’t properly looked after, it can lead to confusion and conflict among your survivors, as well as an opportunity for hackers to try to get at whatever resources they can touch.

Given all these areas, how can you protect and preserve your digital estate? Here are a few suggestions: Create a detailed inventory of digital assets. Following the categories listed above, draw up a list of all your digital assets.

Name a digital executor in your last will and testament. A digital executor can accomplish a variety of tasks related to your digital estate, such as transferring online assets to your heirs; closing accounts you don’t want transferred; managing personal materials by archiving or deleting files, photographs, videos and other content you have created; and, finally, informing online communities of your passing. When choosing a digital executor, you’ll want someone you can trust, of course, but you’ll also want to make sure that person is skilled enough in technology to search your computer properly and navigate the internet and multiple websites. Not all states recognize a digital executor, so you may want to consult with a legal professional to learn about the laws governing digital estate planning in your state. Also, even if you have a digital executor, online platforms enforce their own rules about who can or can’t access a deceased person’s accounts. If you are concerned about this, you may want to contact the customer service areas from these types of providers – Google, PayPal, Facebook, etc. – to learn their policies. Review your plans. Review your digital estate plans on a regular basis, just as you do with your physical/ tangible estate plans. The digital world is a fast-moving one, so you’ll need to stay current with changes.

Document your wishes for how you want your digital assets managed. If you don’t specify how you want your digital assets managed upon your death or incapacitation, you might be opening the door to lengthy legal In some ways, managing a digital If you haven’t stopped to think battles over access to these assets. estate can be more challenging than about it, you might be surprised at In a worst-case scenario, your heirs dealing with a physical estate. But by the number of assets that could and beneficiaries might never get the following the above suggestions, you  become part of your digital estate. assets you had intended for them. can help reduce any “cyber-angst” You may have financial accounts  your loved ones may feel when it’s (banking, brokerage and bill-paying); time to deal with the digital presence virtual property accounts (air miles, you’ve left behind.   “points” for hotel bookings); business  accounts (eBay, Amazon, Etsy);   e-mail accounts (Gmail, Outlook,  Yahoo); social networking accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram); online This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your storage accounts (Google Drive, local  Edward Jones Financial Advisor. iCloud, Drobox); and application accounts (Netflix, Kindle, Apple). 

32 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • SEPTEMBER 2018

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