Business Connection • Nov 22

Danielle Michalski

business CONNECTION

Terry Christensen PUBLISHER tchristensen@messengernews.net

Bill Shea EDITOR bshea@messengernews.net

Rachel Rowe SALES MANAGER rrowe@messengernews.net

Nick Manwarren GRAPHIC DESIGNER nmanwarren@messengernews.net

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

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

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

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

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

THE HOLIDAY SEASON

With the Holiday shopping season upon us there are a number of things we should be appreciative of but also aware of. The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance is proud of our members and the strength they bring to the area. Most goods and services we need are available within our region. In fact, from a retail standpoint, Fort Dodge has had one of the top four pull factors, as demonstrated by Iowa State University’s annual retail report, over the past forty years and continues to be high in the area of 1.6 to 1.8.

While we are fortunate, we should remain mindful of certain things, especially with the new pressures to shop outside of our region. Shopping locally keeps more money in the local communities and precludes the loss of unnecessary leakage from our economy. In 2020 a civil economics study found that local retailers return approximately 50% of their revenue to the local economy and recirculate an average of 55.7% of their revenue locally. This is due to spending more on local labor, goods, goods procured locally for resale, and services from local providers.

When shopping locally, you’ll get to know your local merchants, and they’ll get to know you. Shopping small truly helps you feel more connected to your community. Shopping with local businesses doesn’t always mean boutiques; it can mean gift cards to restaurants, coffee shops, and self-care services like massages and manicures.

Just as a primary sector company does, having a strong base of local retailers and restaurants provides job opportunities and in the United States, today provides roughly 2/3 of private-sector jobs. A strong local business community leads to more retail and business opportunities community-wide and a strong local business community makes it more likely to get national retailers to come to the community. Most corporate real estate teams and real estate brokers evaluate the health of a market by looking at the current real estate landscape, its pull factor, as well as any significant leakage in the market. A healthy local economy with successful local retailers and restaurants makes it more likely that they’ll see opportunities in the community. That in itself makes it additionally easier to recruit a workforce and, ultimately, new primary sector manufacturing and service industry companies.

Dennis Plautz

In some ways, e-commerce has contributed to less local retail interest except that recently local e-commerce is now making it easier to shop locally and still shop online. With more and more local businesses investing in e-commerce and online ordering (local e-commerce), it’s easier than ever to purchase things locally while still being able to shop on-line. Most local stores now have options for buying or ordering on line and picking up locally. Many retailers are starting to deliver and ship locally as well, so you can find many of the retail items you might purchase on Amazon or from large on-line sellers from local stores.

In any case, please remember during the holiday season that most retailers have from 50% to 60% of their annual sales during this period and a loss of sales can hurt local economies. SHOP IN THE AREA AND PRESERVE AND GROW OUR LOCAL ECONOMY! We all work to bring new discretionary income into our region so please help to keep it here.

Q&A

WITH

SHARON STROH

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MAIN STREET FORT DODGE

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.

I grew up in a military family and have lived around the world. I went to kindergarten in Taiwan and high school in Honolulu. I am the mother of twin daughters attending Central College where they are Juniors majoring in Engineering and Computer Science respectively. My favorite leisure activity is reading a good book.

HOW DOES FORT DODGE BENEFIT FROM BEING A MAIN STREET COMMUNITY?

The whole premise of the Main Street movement is to reclaim downtown as a purposeful and prosperous commercial district with vibrant retail, office, or even residential spaces with little to no vacancy. That’s a big ask of any Main Street community, but there are many resources available- both locally and at the state levelthat can assist us in that mission. Change is incremental, and that is how Main Street Fort Dodge approaches it.

Q&A

WITH THE SHARON STROH

WHAT ARE YOUR PRIORITIES AS YOU TAKE OVER AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR?

Several:

1) To provide for our own organizational sustainability

2) Examine the organizations priorities and adjust if necessary

3) To become knowledgeable in the grant and loan programs available to the district’s property owners

4) Build relationships with Main Street businesses

5) Work cooperatively with other local stakeholders Not necessarily in that order.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MAIN STREET FORT DODGE?

Getting familiar with a whole new community. It’s exciting to learn about the history and progression of Fort Dodge. Every day I read a headline that has interest to me as a Dodger; past, present and future. It isn’t often one can see a place through a newcomer’s eyes; and it’s a joy to discover what Fort Dodge has to offer. There is so much here to appreciate!

Michael A. Baird, MFA Age: 45

What inspires you?

Creativity. It may sound strange, but that is the core of all things that inspire me. I have become a bit of a creativity snob, though. If something isn’t particularly creative, like zombies, I am not terribly interested. But if something is wildly creative, like the snallygaster, I cannot get enough. I study folklore creatures from around the world, but predominantly those in American folklore. I have found that the most intensely creative thing in all human experience is monsters. I could talk all day about what the word “monster” means and how it is the pinnacle of creativity, but for the sake of brevity, I can safely say that monsters are the coolest thing ever.

What most appealed to you about Fort Dodge, when you were considering your move?

Hometown:

I… am not quite sure what to say in response to where my hometown would be. I suppose, statistically, I would have to say “Cape Girardeau, MO.” I was not born there, but I lived there for the most years so far.

Profession: Instructor of Art, Iowa Central Community College

Preferred Artistic Medium:

As a sculptor, I am diametrically opposed to choosing any one medium. Sculptors, I find, tend to believe that any medium that will do the job best is the best answer. But I do rather like using various plastics, furs, and animal remains. I am also a graphic designer and illustrator, so I use a lot of soft pastels and PhotoShop to make things, too.

In what ways were you exposed to art and culture as a child? : Both of my parents were artists throughout my young life. I grew up under the folding table my folks brought to wood carving shows. My father was a very talented wood carver and my mother was a painter and various other art media, too. Both of my parents were educators, too, so they have always encouraged me to explore whatever academic field of interest I desired. But more specifically, I would say that some of the most influential aspects of my childhood art exposure would be looking through art books from my parents’ bookshelves, watching my parents make artwork, and the day I was Stan Lee’s personal assistant. (That’s the kind of day that sticks with a guy.)

Tell us about your educational path through college.

I graduated from a community college in Neosho, Missouri, Crowder College, with an associate’s degree in art. I went on to obtain an MFA (sculpture) from Southeast Missouri State University before I earned my terminal degree from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. It took me approximately twelve years to complete my higher education due to working through college as a sign-maker.

What do you most enjoy about being an art instructor?

I love helping students find those “aha” moments. Those moments when a student who was struggling with some aspect of their project finally has a revelation. Seeing the excitement when a student finally overcomes their struggles and suddenly begins to develop their skills much more quickly than before is one of the best feelings in the world.

I did not know Fort Dodge existed before I found the job listing at Iowa Central, honestly. I grew up visiting my grandparents in Ames nearly every year, but I never knew much about any other cities in Iowa. But once I did my research into all the jobs that were looking for art instructors, Fort Dodge immediately rose to the top. But as an educator, I have to admit that the selling points that sold me on coming to Fort Dodge was Iowa Central itself. I was immediately impressed with the college and could tell that it was not only a great place to work but a great place for students to succeed and proceed in their education.

What is something you’d like us to know about you?

I love monsters. I know that is a shocking revelation for anyone who has made it this far through my interview.

Favorite Artist & Why?

Ugh! This is always the worst question for me. Anyone who makes artwork is inspired by a myriad of artists who could be considered favorites. If I were forced to answer this with one name, it could be different each time I answer. So,… I’ll go with Jim Lee, the iconic comic book artist, today.

Favorite Food?

Rhubarb pie. Not strawberry rhubarb, mind you. No, no. I want none of that ruining my rhubarb’s bite, thank you very much.

Favorite Musician?

Oh, geez. This is the same case as “favorite artist.” So today I will choose The Midnight, a synthwave band I have been particularly fond of for quite a while.

shiningstar

Owen Obrien

Age: 18 • Hometown: Fort Dodge Area of Artistic Interest: Music, Songwriting, Sound Production

Tell us about the gig you’ve played that has left the biggest impression?

The gig that’s left the biggest impression?

Hm. For me, Honestly it was quite recent. The band I’m in, Aka The Tank Anthony Band, recently played at the downtown country jam, which is an event put on by shellabration. I have to say, playing that show, with the amazing musicians and people I play with made me feel on top of the world in that moment.

What inspires you? What inspires me? Creative people. People that want to inspire the world through their art. The thing I love about music, or art, is that they can bring all people, from any ethnicity or believe system, together. Not many things can do that. I find that inspiring.

What are your plans after Iowa Central Community College? After Iowa Central, It’s been my dream for a while to go to the Berklee College of Music. The things they offer there, I mean it would perfect

In what ways were you exposed to art and culture as a child?

I was first exposed to music because of my Grandfather, Tracy Ernst. In fact, he was the one that made me become passionate about music in the first place. So my main exposure to music was through him showing me all kinds of music, and watching him play live shows when I was growing up. I owe it all to him.

How did you learn to play bass? What other instruments do you play?

I learned how to play bass about 5 years ago. When I began, I pretty much just learned the instrument via several YouTube videos, and trying my best to learn difficult basslines. I definitely tried to go way over my skill level when it came to learning techniques but, I think it worked out. Trying to learn hard songs made me more determined. I also play drums and guitar, but bass is definitely my main focus.

What do you most enjoy about being a musician?

Being a musician, I think, is one of the greatest feelings you could have. Creating music, learning music, playing live shows, I mean it almost gives you this euphoric feeling. Being a musician means you express your creativity and emotions in a way that anyone can hear it, whether it be through an instrument, or your voice. It’s incredible.

Go to www.fineartsassociation.com for a list of upcoming events and our members….. Over 60 events each month!

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

Shelly Bottorff, Executive Director • fdfinearts@gmail.com

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota has been a part of our com munity since 1996, when Deb and Casey Johnson opened the dealership at 11 N 25th St. Before long a bigger space was needed, and in 2002 they acquired a large parcel of land along the Corridor of Commerce on Fifth Avenue South. The doors opened in 2003, and the business has since grown into a family affair that includes their sons Matt and his wife Abigail, along with their children Isabella and Max, and Nick and his wife, Jordan.

In 2012, the Johnsons expanded to the Ames. Ames Ford Lincoln sells new and pre-owned vehicles and provides a full service center. Matt leads the team in Fort Dodge, while Nick leads the team in Ames.

Fort Dodge Ford Toyota has received the President’s Award from both Ford Motor Corporation and Toyota Motor Cor poration multiple times. The recipients of these awards are judged on factors such as customer satisfaction, sales vol ume, market share, and service after the initial sale.

GREATER FORT DODGE GROWTH ALLIANCE BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

“We are blessed to call Fort Dodge home and thankful for such a wonderful team of employees and outstanding customers!”

- The Johnson Family

The Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota dealership offers a service department that can provide services to new and preowned vehicles such as:

• General automotive repair

• Preventative car maintenance

• Air conditioning and heating services

• Cooling system and radiation repair

• Synthetic oil replacement

• Brake repair

• Engine diagnostics

• Tune-up

• Transmission Services

• Batteries

• Headlights

• Electric vehicle repair and maintenance

Abra Auto Body and Glass, housed in the dealership, offers complete auto body and glass repair services. Everything from damaged fenders, twisted frames, and dented doors to auto glass and windshield repair. They also provide paint and refin ishing services. The technicians are I-CAR Gold Standard certified and use the latest auto body and colli sion repair technology.

The Quick Lane ® Tire & Auto Cen ter provides quick maintenance ser vices, all done by factory-trained experts. An appointment is never needed, and services are done while you wait, even on evenings and weekends. Technicians will inspect your vehicle and give you an in-depth report, enabling you to easily monitor your vehicle’s maintenance needs.

Community involvement has long been a priority for the Johnsons. They host an annu al Thanksgiving meal in their Fort Dodge showroom, partnering with various businesses and the Iowa Central Community College Culi nary Arts program. This past year, nearly 2,000 meals were served,

providing both nourishment and fellowship to peo ple alone or in-need. Through collaboration with the United Way of Greater Fort Dodge, Fort Dodge Ford Toyota has been a vital component of the Wheels for Work program. They service the donated vehicles, making sure they are safe for driving, and with their participation the Wheels for Work program has giv en over 100 vehicles to individuals who need reliable transportation but may otherwise not be able to afford a vehicle. Wheels for Work has since expanded to the Ames location.

The Johnson family has been heavily involved in sup porting and expanding Meals on Wheels Fort Dodge. Last year alone, 11,000 meals were served to elderly

service provides a warm, nutritious meal and wellness safety check. Deb Johnson has served in a leadership role for an annual Breast Cancer Awareness luncheon in both Fort Dodge and Ames. Casey and Matt are both past presidents of the Fort Dodge Chamber of Commerce, before it became the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, with Matt serving as a past president of the Growth Alliance. The Johnson family also sup ported the American Heart Association’s Sweetheart Gala for over 20 years, with Deb and Abigail being the past chairs.

City Connect FORT DODGE

RENTAL CODE UPDATES – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Several years ago, the City of Fort Dodge in spectors were faced with a challenge – make the rental inspection process more efficient than it had been in previous years. Missed or rescheduled appointments, failure to fol low through with necessary corrections and creative excuses plagued the process and wreaked havoc with days tightly scheduled with inspections. In a government where LEAN practices are encouraged and expect ed, rental inspections were ripe and easy picking when evaluating what areas could be significantly improved for the benefit of both City employees and our residents.

Easy picking doesn’t always mean the pro cess is going to be fast. Inspection leader ship worked with Fort Dodge Housing to see if streamlining the inspections processes into one inspection for both agencies was feasi

ble. In the end, it wasn’t, but what came out of the discussions led to the new four-star system created by front-line staff that now makes up the City’s Rental Inspections or dinance. The updated ordinance became effective on October 1, 2022, and classifies properties using a four-star system.

The four-star system allows City inspectors to focus on the properties that truly need the most attention – those one- and twostar properties, while rewarding the prop erty owners and managers who maintain four- and three-star properties, giving them a longer time span between inspection cycles. Landlords are able to promote their four- and three-star properties and tenants have an other tool at their disposal when choosing a property to rent.

Single units are pretty self-explanatory. The number of stars is determined by the num ber of visits it takes to pass a property. A visit is defined as any occasion in which City staff is physically present at a property or has allotted time in their schedule for an appointment during the course of an inspec tion cycle. So, if a property passes on the first visit, you have a four-star property. If a property passes on the fourth visit, you have a one-star property. Properties that require more than four visits to pass automatically go into suspension and property owners will need to remedy all violations and pay a re instatement fee. Once those conditions are met, the property will be deemed one-star and be scheduled for re-inspection one year from the initial inspection date.

passed inspection. Think of them like a chain – a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Let’s say a landlord has a 20-unit complex that is being inspected. 10 units pass on the first inspection (1st visit); 5 more pass on the re-inspec tion (2nd visit); 4 units pass on the second inspection (3rd visit); and the final unit passes on the third inspection (4th visit). Half the units passed on the first inspection, but the property as a whole receives a one-star rating and will need to be inspected again the following year.

Current landlords that may have unregistered properties will be given until December 30, 2022, to get the properties properly registered. Any rental property that is found to be unregistered and rented will be assessed the $300 fee AND be a one-star property. New property owners are required to have their units registered no later than thirty (30) days after purchase. If the property will be vacant for rehab or remodeling, property owners need to request an exemption form. This ensures the property is registered as required but can be removed from the rental program until it is ready to be rented. Failure to register in a timely manner will result in a $300.00 late fee. The property will also automatically be deemed a one-star property until the following year’s in spection cycle.

The Inspections team wants to make the process as easy as possible and that includes an open line of communication. They understand there are season issues and supply chain issues that can impact a property manager’s ability to com

ply with necessary repairs. They don’t want to come back to a property for a small violation – keep extra smoke detec tors, batteries, light switch covers or any other small items handy. In some cases, the inspector will even help install the batteries. It seems simple, but sometimes just an email can keep a property from losing a star on its rating.

Another step they’ve taken in keeping open communica tions going involves the complaint-driven inspections. Too often, calls were coming in from disgruntled tenants wanted something done immediately when they had failed to com municate their concerns to the landlords. They may have been facing eviction or been behind on rent and were at tempting to use the process to delay proceedings. Moving forward, tenants who wish to file a formal written complaint with the Inspections office must do so on a standard form provided by the department. Additionally, the complainant must be a current tenant, must not have an eviction in prog ress and must be current with their rent. The complainant must also be able to provide proof that they have already addressed their concerns with the property owner or man ager.

As much as we hope we cover 100% of all scenarios when passing ordinances and resolutions or establishing stan dard operating procedures, we know we’re going to miss something – the one thing that would NEVER happens ac tually happens. Anyone who has questions is encouraged to reach out to our inspections team. We’re happy to hear constructive feedback and be a resource where possible.

• Troy Brandt, Building Official tbrandt@fortdodgeiowa.org

• Shawn George, Building Inspector I sgeorge@fortdodgeiowa.org

• Tim Breon, Nuisance & Rental Inspector tbreon@fortdodgeiowa.org

• Jennelle Jobe, Neighborhood Wellness Coordinator jjobe@fortdodgeiowa.org

20 1 7N 20 22

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance

November 2022 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

When you invest money in your local economy, you ’re not just helping local business owners helping yourself. You ’re making your town a better place to live in, with a rich character, thriving and tightly knit community. And the more local businesses prosper, the more new ones will even easier to continue shopping locally in the future.

Deena McCaulley Office Manager deena@greaterfortdodge.com

Lydia Schuur Communications Specialist lydia@greaterfortdodge.com

will open, making it even easier to continue shopping locally in the future.

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.”

Shop Local with some of our member businesses!

Party Productions

Browse their vast selection of party supplies and rentals, food, decorations, and more. You can find scrapbooking supplies, small toys and magic tricks, Melissa and Doug toys, novelty and gag gifts, and local wines. Party Productions has practically everything you could need this holiday season under one roof.

Rush Hour Clothing Co.

At Rush Hour, shoppers can find trendy women’s clothing and accessories, with new items available weekly. They also offer live videos each Wednesday night, featuring items in the store, at 6:00.

The Green Dragon Bookshop

The Green Dragon Bookshop is located at 9 N 11th St in Historic Downtown Fort Dodge. They curate books and trinkets focused on science and fantasy fiction for all ages and can order any book currently in print.

Blanden Art Museum

Stop into the Blanden Art Museum to see unique pieces of art for purchase, as well as clothing. You will definitely find one of a kind gifts created by local artists!

Luminess Spa and Candle Co LLC

Luminess Spa and Candle Co was created to benefit the community with self care options, which in today's world is so important with the intention to create and promote relaxation and calmness in a comfortable space.

Their facial and body wrap sessions calm the body and mind to help melt away the stress of every day life. They also offer nail enhancement and manicure services. Their body care products are made in house using all natural organic products, with a variety to choose from, from bath bombs to whipped body butter. You can also find fashion jewelry and sunglasses.

’

Brown

s Shoe Fit Co.

Brown’s Shoe Fit Company has been fitting people like you with comfortable footwear for over 100 years. In their store you ’ll find high quality footwear from the best brands that will be good to your feet so you look and feel great.

Iowa Outdoors Store

The Iowa Outdoors Hardware Store is a unique retail store that provides you everything you need for work or play. They take pride in the hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation lifestyle. They can help you get your work done quickly so you have time to get outdoors.

Mary Kay

’

s Gift and Home Décor

Mary Kay's Gifts & Home Decor not only offers a wide variety of gift items, home decor, and accessories, but also interior design expertise. Mary Kay has a degree in Interior Design and offers consultation when it comes to buying items and how to arrange each item once you get it home. Mary Kay's Gifts & Home Decor has everything from candles, diffusers, baptism, confirmation, bereavement, Iowa/ISU, wall decor, tabletop decor, furniture, and more.

tRIBBON

Lincoln, Des Moines, Kansas City, Denver, Vail, Seattle, Connecticut, San Diego, Tennessee, Texas, North Carolina, Sioux Falls, Atlanta, and Montana. Their financial and human resources leadership helps their clients improve profits, grow revenues, and strengthen both their balance sheets and their organizations.

Cutting the ribbon is Molly Varangkounh. Molly is based out of Humboldt and has over 20 years of executive accounting and finance experience primarily in the agricultural, manufacturing, and distribution industries that includes serving as the president of a multigenerational family business.

County Connect Webster

Gowrie 2022 Holiday Event Schedule

The holiday season is upon us, and with that comes oppor tunities to support your local businesses and experience the festivities in Webster County communities. With the collab oration of local organizations and small businesses, Gowrie provides many opportunities for shopping and celebrating this year.

PINK FRIDAY – NOVEMBER 18TH

Shop Local before the Big Box stores

Addison James Boutique and Ally J, open 10am-2pm

Lost Grove Mercantile, open 9am -2 pm

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY – NOVEMBER 26TH

Lost Grove Mercantile 1108 Market Street, open 9 am - 2 pm

ANNUAL 12 DAYS OF T-SHIRTS DECEMBER 1ST - 12TH!

Addison James Boutique & Ally J, open 10 am - 2 pm

Throughout the month, Wag’n Wheel Boarding and Groom ing will take donations for the Almost Home Humane Soci ety - canned/dry cat and dog food, kitty litter, etc.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2ND

Security Savings Bank - refreshments and door prizes Angel Tree donations to be returned by December 9th!

Heartland Bank, open 9 am - 4 pm lots of food, hot apple ci der, guessing games with prizes and plenty of holiday cheer!

Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association Fri day, open 9 am - 4 pm providing refreshments, giveaways and door prizes.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2ND

Lost Grove Mercantile, open 9 am - 6 pm

Farm & Town Insurance, open 9 am - 3 pm with refresh ments and door prizes!

Gowrie Public Library, open 1 - 5 pm

Town Vet Clinic, open 11 am - 2 pm with drawing for gift certificates

Donation Drive for local animal shelter

Hometown Tax, open 9 am - Noon

Mission Pop-up Shop at Gowrie Community Center 1206 Market Street, open 9 am - 4 pm, featuring unique and dif ferent gifts supporting local and global missions.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3RD

Lost Grove Mercantile, open 9 am - 4 pm for their Holiday Open House

Gowrie UMC Women’s Bazaar and Coffee, 9 am - 11 am. Includes homemade noodles, rye bread, candy, crafts and more. Don’t miss the cookie walk and fellowship!

Gowrie Public Library, open 9 am - 12 pm

Gift Basket Drawing

Security Savings Bank will be providing refreshments and children can see Santa from 9 - 11 am

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3RD

Foxtail Floral, open 10 am - 2 pm

Mission Pop-up Shop at Gowrie Community Cen ter 1206 Market Street, open 9 am - 1 pm featuring unique and different gifts supporting local and global missions.

Saturday, December 10th

Stop by Lost Grove Mercantile for Breakfast with Santa from 9am-12pm. Bring the kids to have break fast with Santa! Enjoy complimentary pastries/juice/ coffee with the big guy himself.

Addison James Boutique & Ally J, open 10 am - 2 pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11TH

Turn on your lights!! Christmas Lighting Contest sponsored by Gowrie Municipal Utilities and Gowrie Development Commission

DECEMBER

17TH

Skate with Santa At Wheels of GYC Skate Center from 1 - 4 pm

OTIONAL

tRIBBON

Congratulations to Level Up Nutrition - Fort Dodge on your ribbon cutting, celebrating the opening of your new business and membership with the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance!

Thank you for your investment in the Fort Dodge region!

Level Up Nutrition is located at 118 S 12th Street and offers healthy teas and meal replacement shakes in various flavors.

Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

2022 UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN

ONE PERSON MIGHT BE THE WORLD FOR A CHILD

Today, even after coming out of the COVID pandemic period, there are many low income families that are really struggling to meet their basic living needs. With high gas and food prices, there are hundreds of families that are working but are really struggling financial ly. In fact, the 2020 Census indicates that 17 percent of households in Fort Dodge live at or below the federal poverty level.

on a single income. In addition, another forty percent (40%) of children in Fort Dodge qual ify for free or reduced lunch in our schools and are in families that struggle every day to meet their basic living needs.

These statistics are staggering and demon strate why United Way support is so import ant. Children living in poverty fight an uphill battle every day. United Way’s top priority is to help these youth overcome the challenges they face in their young lives so they can thrive and

RANDY KUHLMAN

You may be surprised to know that in Fort Dodge today one out of every four kids lives in a household that is at, below or close to the poverty level. Many of these children and adolescents are at risk of becoming homeless. Most of the homeless children are in single parent families headed by the mother living

reach their full potential academically, emo tionally and developmentally.

These children and adolescents that are living in poverty lack very basic living needs. Some are homeless. Others live in homes or apart ments without power or water and are unsafe. Many are hungry and do not have enough nu

“To the world you might be one person, but to one child you might be the world.”

UNITED WAY OF GREATER FORT DODGE

tritious food to eat. Others lack adequate clothing. Some go without medi cal care. Numerous children are dealing with trauma in their lives including abuse and domestic violence. Many lack hope for a better future and are cop ing with serious depression, including harboring suicidal thoughts.

These children and adolescents are dealing with these social ills of pover ty every day which can create toxic stress that often leads to harmful, longterm impacts on their learning, healthy development, self-esteem and overall well-being. United Way works collaboratively with our partner agencies to provide support for our low income youth to help meet their basic needs and overcome these challenges they face so they can have hope for a brighter future.

Helping our youth raise themselves up and out of poverty is the moral and right thing to do. Today’s youth will be tomorrow’s workforce, parents, and business and community leaders. We must not turn a blind eye to them. The future of our community will be in the hands of these children. Investing in our youth today is an investment in them and our community’s future.

This year’s United Way’s campaign theme is “Building Hope – Changing Lives.” One-hundred (100) percent of every dollar donated to the United Way campaign stays right here in our community and county and is used effi ciently in ways that make the greatest impact on the lives of so many children. We are in the midst of our campaign, and we are asking for our community’s support to help children in need of a “helping hand.” Every donation, be $50, $150 or $500, can help us make a real and positive impact on so many children in important and meaningful ways. The quote at the top of this article is so apropos for our society today and for our community. One person can help make a difference.

For more information on United Way and how you can support our cam paign, please contact us by calling us (515-573-3179). Donations to the cam paign can be mailed to our office at 24 North 9th Street, Suite B, Fort Dodge, IA 50501. You never know how your support might touch the life of a child in a life-changing way. Who knows – you may be “the world for one child.”

Randy Kuhlman, C.E.O. United Way and Community Foundation of Greater Fort Dodge

College Connect

Iowa Central Culinary Students Give Back to Community though Thanksgiving Dinner

brought Chef Michael and the culinary students on board.”

The students prepared and served a traditional Thanksgiving meal for around 250-300 people that first year, and it has grown significantly each year since its inception, according to Hirst.

“We started this 14 years ago and we were and are happy to do it,” said Hirst. “We knew then that it had the potential to become something big and it has grown exponentially every year.”

In the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, culinary students will begin prepping nearly 1,600 pounds of turkey, with every piece going into the meal.

“We start with the turkey, we roast them, debone them and from that we get about 500 to 600 gallons of turkey stock from scratch that we use to make dressing and gravy,” said Hirst.

Students in the Culinary Arts Program at Iowa Central Community College are gearing up for their largest hands-on assignment of the year: preparing a meal for nearly 2,000 people while also giv ing back to the Fort Dodge Community.

Since 2009, the Culinary Students, under the direction of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Program Coordinator Chef Mi chael Hirst, have been partnering with local auto dealership Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota to prepare a free Thanksgiving dinner. The partnership with Iowa Central began when Fort Dodge Ford owners Casey and Deb Johnson and their family decided to host a dinner in the showroom of their dealership but knew that such a large-scale event would require more resources and labor than the four of them could provide solely on their own.

“We knew we wanted to have Thanksgiving dinner in the show room, but we also knew that would require some different sourc es to make it happen,” said Casey Johnson. “That’s where we

In addition to turkey, students will prepare a homemade traditional English sausage dressing from more than 300 pounds of bread, over 650 pounds of corn, green beans and brussels sprouts, 450 pounds of potatoes and 900 servings of homemade pie complete with 64 quarts of fresh whipped cream.

Iowa Central does not hold classes the week of Thanksgiving, but Hirst expects that many of his students will volunteer their time to remain on campus during the week to prepare and serve the meal.

“When everyone else goes home, these students will stay and put in around 30 hours of volunteer time per student,” said Hirst.

On Thanksgiving Day, kitchen work begins at 6 a.m. as Hirst, culinary students and an army of Iowa Central volunteers prepare approximately 800 meals to be delivered to those who cannot attend the meal at the dealership.

“The Iowa Central Family comes together on Thanksgiving to help

make the whole operation happen,” said Hirst. “Everyone from employees and their families to our athletes, they all show up to help out and many hands make for light work.”

Hirst and Johnson expect an additional 700-900 meals will be served at the dealership on Thanksgiving.

The meal is the largest in Fort Dodge and is expected to fulfill an even greater need this year as food prices increase and other local programs have been discontinued.

“We will serve close to 2,000 total meals this year,” said Hirst. “We probably have one of the largest community Thanksgiving dinners in Iowa. Everything is homemade from scratch, just like if it were a meal at home.”

Johnson said the partnership provides an opportunity for both organizations to give back to the community, and also a real-world learning experience for the culinary students.

“This is the single largest amount of food these students will prepare for anything,” he said. “It gives them the expe rience of what it takes to feed 2,000 people on one given day.”

Hirst said at the end of the day, when the meal is prepared and served, the greatest reward is seeing everyone come together to dine as a community.

Share What You Wear

“What started as a way to feed people in need has grown,” said Hirst. “We’ve created a unique family atmosphere that has become a great community gathering, really a cele bration of Fort Dodge. When we come together there is no hierarchy here, we all sit down to dine together.”

Each year, Iowa Central students, faculty and staff come together in a joint effort for the annual “Share What You Wear” event.

The 18th annual event is set for Saturday, December 3 from 9 a.m. until noon in the Career Education Building on the Iowa Cen tral Campus. Donations are currently being accepted and may be dropped off on designated days throughout the month of Novem ber.

A campus-wide community focused event designed to assist those in need over the holiday season, Share What You Wear will accept donations of new or gently used clean clothing, boots, shoes, coats, gloves, hats, toys, school clothes, baby items, usable household items, men’s and women’s work clothes, sheets, towels, blankets, travel-size soaps and shampoos and school supplies. The cam paign allows those in need or experiencing tough economic times to provide some holiday cheer for their loved ones. It is also the largest community event of the year for Iowa Central. Donations may be brought to the drop-off location at the Career Education Building where the storage trailer is located on Tuesdays and Thursdays in November (Except Thanksgiving, November 24) from 4-6 p.m. and December 1. On Friday December 2, items may be dropped off during set-up in the Career Education Building anytime between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Any new items that can be wrapped as gifts will also be accepted. For more information, contact Jenny Shivers at (515) 574-1252 or Brandon Bush at (515-574-1039).

700 Central Ave Fort Dodge • 515-576-3751 Across from Courthouse Hours: T-F 9:30am-5pm, Sat 9:30am-12pm Family Owned since 1932

Lynsey Simpson

tRIBBON

Luminess Spa and Candle Co LLC

Congratulations to Luminess Spa and Candle Co LLC on your ribbon cutting, celebrating your business and membership with the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance! Thank you for your investment in the community!

Luminess Spa and Candle Co, LLC offers a variety of services such as mud wraps, paraffin dips, ear piercing, and more! They also sell body butter, bath bombs, and candles, all made in-house. Luminess is open Monday - Thursday, 10a - 5p.

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Shoe Sensation

PROTECT FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS FROM “CYBERTHIEVES”

Cybercrime is booming. In 2021, the FBI reported that cybercriminals scammed nearly $7 billion from Americans — a figure slightly higher than the gross domestic product (GDP) of Switzerland for that year, according to research organization World Economics. How can you protect yourself from cyberthieves?

Here are some suggestions that can help:

Watch out for “phishing” attempts. You may receive emails that appear to be from a legitimate firm, requesting information your financial institution would never request online — confirmation of an account number, password, Social Security number, credit card number and so on. These notes can look official, often incorporating a firm’s logo, so pay close attention to what’s being asked of you.

Think twice before clicking or downloading. If you are suspicious about a communication, don’t click on a link or download an attachment — instead, go to your financial firm’s website or use their app to verify they sent the information or request.

Become adept with passwords. Use a different password for each of your accounts and change your passwords regularly. Of course, maintaining multiple passwords can be confusing, so you might want to consider using password management software, which generates passwords, stores them in an encrypted

database and locks them behind a master password — which is the only one you’ll need to remember.

Use your own devices. Try to avoid using public computers or devices that aren’t yours to access your financial accounts. If you do use another computer, clear your browsing history after you log out of your account.

Be cautious about using Wi-Fi when traveling. When you’re on the road, you may want to use public hotspots, such as wireless networks in airports and hotels. But many people don’t realize that these hotspots reduce their security settings to make access easier, which, in turn, makes it easier for cyberthieves to intercept your information. In fact, some hackers even build their own public hotspots to draw in internet-seekers in an effort to commit theft. So, if at all possible, wait until you can access a trusted, encrypted network before engaging in any communications or activity involving your financial accounts. Don’t give up control of your computer. Under no circumstances should you provide remote access to your computer to a stranger who contacts you, possibly with an offer to help “disinfect” your computer. If you do think your device has

an issue with malicious software, contact a legitimate technician for assistance.

Know whom you’re calling for help. If you need assistance from, say, a customer service area of a financial institution, make sure you know the phone number is accurate and legitimate — possibly one from a billing or confirmation statement. Some people have been scammed by Googling “support” numbers that belonged to fraudsters who asked for sensitive information.

Review all correspondence with your financial services provider. Keep a close eye on your account activity and statements. If you see mistakes or unauthorized activity in your account, contact your financial institution immediately.

Advanced technology has brought many benefits, but also many more opportunities for financial crimes. By taking the above steps, and others that may be needed, you can go a long way toward defending yourself against persistent and clever cyberthieves.

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