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Dear FuseDSM Members,
I hope this message finds you well. As many of you know, I recently faced a significant health challenge that required me to step back for a time. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the outpouring of support, well-wishes, and patience from each of you during this period. Your encouragement and understanding have been a source of strength for me and a reminder of the incredible community we have built together.
I am pleased to share that I am continuing to make a strong recovery. My time away has given me a renewed sense of purpose and an even greater commitment to our mission at FuseDSM. I am more energized than ever to lead this organization forward, ensuring that we continue to provide the valuable resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy that you rely on.
Please rest assured that throughout my absence, the dedicated team at FuseDSM has kept everything running smoothly, ensuring that our programs, initiatives, and services remained uninterrupted.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the many opportunities that lie before us. Together, we will continue to build a thriving business community, foster innovation, and drive economic development in the Greater Des Moines area. Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to FuseDSM. It is an honor to serve you, and I look forward to working with you as we continue to make a positive impact in our community.
Warm regards,
Trish Flaherty-Barnes President/CEO FuseDSM, Your Chamber of Commerce
August 1, 2024
7:45 AM - 9:30 AM CST
AUGUST EVENTS
FuseDSM Quarterly Breakfast Public Charter Schools For DSM- A workforce Development Partner
August 6, 2024
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM CST
August 8, 2024
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CST
August 20, 2024
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM CST
August 21, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CST
August 21, 2024
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST
August 21, 2024
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CST
August 27, 2024
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM CST
August 28, 2024
8:15 AM - 9:45 AM CST
August 29, 2024
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CST
FuseDSM Economic Development Committee Meeting
Feed Your Mind Lunch & Learn - Dancing with Catatrophe
FuseHR Forum
Firestarter Meeting
Ribbon Cutting: YSS Rooftop Gardens
FuseDSM NPO Confidential
Change Your Circle Speed Networking Event
MOXIE Presented by East Village Spa
Spark Your Imagination: Unveiling ImagineDSM - Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success (INFORMATIONAL MEETING)
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
September 3, 2024
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM CST
September 5, 2024
11:15 AM - 1:00 PM CST
September 6, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM CST
FuseDSM Economic Development Committee Meeting
FuseDSM Monthly Luncheon Redefining Community Engagement: The Success Story of Des Moines Parks and Recreation"
Ribbon Cutting: ACME TOOLS
September 12, 2024
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CST
September 18, 2024
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM CST
Feed Your Mind Lunch & Learn - Gaining Traction in 2025
FuseDSM NPO Confidential
September 18, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CST
Firestarter Meeting
September 24, 2024
4:30 PM - 8:00 PM CST
Flourish - Fund Ideas that Matter
September 25, 2024
8:15 AM - 9:45 AM CST
MOXIE presented by East Village Spa
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
FuseHR Forum
Join us every other month at the FuseHR Forum, where small business owners without dedicated HR departments come together to tackle challenges and celebrate wins! This exclusive program is tailored for those who wear the HR hat in their organizations, providing a unique platform to expand your knowledge, connect with peers, and exchange best practices.
Tuesday August 20, 2024
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Change Your Circle Speed Networking Event
Change Your Circle is a FuseDSM event to give our chamber members the opportunity to do just that...Change Your Circle....in a fast-paced and casual environment. It is an opportunity to remove the awkwardness of meeting new people by providing a platform for you in which you don't have to search new connections out. Through an organized process, you'll chat with a single individual for a few minutes at a time, before being prompted to move onto the next person. 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Tuesday August 27, 2024
Ribbon Cutting
Rooftop Gardens
To kick o their membership, we're excited to invite you to a special event: the YSS Rooftop Gardens Open House and Ribbon Cutting. It's a wonderful opportunity to see firsthand the incredible work being done at Rooftop Gardens and to connect with other members of our community. The event will feature light refreshments, and you'll have the chance to take a guided tour of the facility led by the participants of Rooftop Gardens.
Wednesday August 21, 2024
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Feed Your Mind Lunch & Learn Gaining Traction in 2025
Are you ready to accelerate your business into 2025 with clear direction and unstoppable momentum? Join us for an engaging, hands-on workshop that will equip you with the tools you need to gain traction and drive your business forward.
At this Lunch & Learn, you'll dive into a powerful set of simple, yet e ective tools designed to help you: - Craft a 1-Year Plan: Define your key objectives and create a roadmap to success.
- Set Quarterly Goals: Break down your year into actionable, achievable steps.
Thursday April 6, 2023
- Establish a Meeting Pulse: Build a rhythm of accountability that keeps your team focused and on track.
11:15 AM - 1:00 PM CST
Thursday September 12, 2024
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Loraine Hardin, Professional EOS Implementer
theIOWA STAT E FAIR presents
Fair Fever Fair Fever
First Time Fairgoers Must See and Do at the 2024 Iowa State Fair
First Time Fairgoers Must See and Do at the 2024 Iowa State Fair
From livestock to food on a stick, to rides and games, to industry and machinery, there’s something for every Fairgoer to taste, see or hear. For those visiting for the first time, it can be overwhelming. Here are some of the must see and dos of the Iowa State Fair!
Culture and History: For those interested in arts and history, go to Pioneer Hall and the Cultural Center! Located at the top of Expo Hill, Pioneer Hall o ers various Heritage contests such as, Mom Calling, Husband Calling, Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest, Beard Growing Contest and so many more. The Cultural Center is full of artist’s creations and demonstrations throughout the Fair! Go to the Agriculture Building to see the famous butter cow and her famous companions, Johnny Carson, Jimmy Fallon and Steve Higgins, all crafted in butter! Learn more about Iowa’s great outdoors in the DNR Building next to the Grandstand.
Contests: Every year thousands of Fairgoers and exhibitors compete for first place in various contests, ranging from Ugliest Cake in the Elwell Family Food Center to the Bubble Gum Blowing Contest on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage. The Iowa State Fair has one of the largest food departments and quilt shows in the country! Competition and special contests vary each day and many are free to enter, such as the Pedal Tractor Pull and the Pigtail Ponytail, Braid, Mullet and Mohawk Contest.
Livestock: The Iowa State Fair is one of the oldest livestock and agricultural exhibitions in the country. On average 25,000 exhibitors compete for top honors, and many national breed shows are held at the Fair. Livestock shows include cattle, sheep, swine, poultry and rabbits, as well as draft horse pulling competitions and llamas. There are livestock competitions featuring animals of all shapes in sizes! See the iconic super bull in the Cattle barn, the big boar in the Swine Barn and the big ram in the Sheep Barn. Kids: Kids can find their own adventure at the Iowa State Fair! Watch 4-H and FFA members show their livestock, present demonstrations and share their static exhibits in the 4-H Exhibits Building and FFA Display Building. Or, get hands-on at the Little Hands on the Farm, Blue Ribbon Kids’ Club or Animal Learning Center, where you get a chance to make Fair crafts to take home or see baby animals. It’s all part of the fun at the Iowa State Fair!
Games and Rides: People of all ages can find a thrill at the Iowa State Fair Thrill Parks! From amusement park rides to games, there’s some excitement to be found. Scream your way down the Giant Slide, see the Fair from above while riding the Sky Glider or take a slow ride through the historic Ye Old Mill, one of only three remaining in the United States.
Entertainment: Are you a music lover or prefer variety? Go to the Bill Riley Talent Search at the Anne and Bill Riley Stage, or find free music entertainment options at the Iowa State Fair’s three main stages featuring rock, tributes, Christian, country or kid-friendly shows.
Food: Are you hungry? With more than 84 new foods to choose from and our increasing list of food on a stick, you won’t be hungry for long. Traditional favorites of corn dogs and lemonade can be found, but check out the new food and drink list, too!
There is something for everyone at the Iowa State Fair! Adults and children alike can find wonder in the di erent sights and exhibits at the Fair. Whether you are a first time Fairgoer or a seasoned visitor, there is so much to do at the 2024 Iowa State Fair!
Ben Page Director of Parks and Recreation
REGISTER
SEPTEMBER MONTHLY LUNCHEON
Redefining Community Engagement: The Success Story of Des Moines Parks and Recreation
Join us for an inspiring presentation that delves into the exceptional services, programs, facilities, and volunteer opportunities provided by Des Moines Parks and Recreation.
Learn how this dynamic department, recognized in 2022 as the top-performing parks and recreation department in the United States, has masterfully navigated challenges to deliver outstanding value to our community.
Discover the innovative strategies that have enabled Des Moines Parks and Recreation to do more with less, harnessing the power of innovation, volunteers, and numerous public-private partnerships.
Hear the compelling story of how this department has redefined service delivery, ensuring that our community continues to thrive.
Thursday September 5, 2024 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM CST
Spark Your Imagination: Unveiling ImagineDSM - Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success
Join FuseDSM and Bookpress Publishing for an informational meeting to explore the upcoming 2nd Cohort of the ImagineDSM™ Entrepreneurship Program!
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, this meeting is your opportunity to discover how ImagineDSM™ can reignite your passion, inspire innovation, and equip you with practical tools for long-term success.
The ImagineDSM™ Entrepreneurship Program, in collaboration with FuseDSM and Bookpress Publishing, is designed to address the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and small business managers. From idea development to financial management, each session is carefully crafted to provide actionable insights that can be applied immediately to your business. During our Friday morning sessions over six months, you'll dive into key topics such as creativity, innovation, building networks, marketing, conflict resolution, financial management, and e ective time management. Led by industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs, these sessions will empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship with confidence. But the learning doesn't end there. Following the program, cohort participants will have the opportunity to stay connected through periodic mentoring meetings. These meetings will provide a supportive environment for participants to share experiences, address challenges, and celebrate successes together. Don't miss this chance to take your business to new heights and reconnect with your passion for entrepreneurship. Join us at the Informational Meeting and learn how ImagineDSM™ can help you unlock your full potential.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 29 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
“This well-designed course seamlessly integrated essential topics like branding, creativity, networking, and accounting, o ering a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to thrive in the business world. One of the most invaluable aspects of the class was connecting with fellow local business owners. The collaborative atmosphere fostered during the sessions opened doors to potential partnerships and collaborations that I never would have imagined otherwise. I cannot recommend this class highly enough to anyone looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey. Whether starting or seeking to take your business to the next level, this course equips you with the tools, knowledge, and connections you need to succeed.”
Hacks for Healthy Back-to-School Habits
BY: ANNE CUNDIFF, RD, LD, FAND CORPORATE HY-VEE DIETITIAN
As summer ends, it’s time to start planning for going back to school. This can bring a long list of to-dos as you try to set your kids up for a successful school year. It’s also the perfect time to start implementing new healthy habits. Consuming enough fruits and vegetables can be challenging, especially during a busy school year. The best way to make an action stick for the long term is to turn that action into a habit. First, let’s learn how to turn actions into habits, then review some healthy hacks that make consuming enough fruits and vegetables simple and easy!
So, how do you turn an action into a habit? Consider these three steps in the process of habit formation.
1. Ease. Easy actions are more likely to be repeated. For example, keep fresh cut-up fruit at eye level in the fridge so your kids are more likely to grab it for a snack.
2. Reward. A simple benefit increases the likelihood of repeating a behavior. For example, when you eat nutritious foods, you feel your best.
3. Repetition. Actions that are easy and rewarding are more likely to be repeated. The more frequently an action is repeated, the more suddenly it becomes a habit. Get the whole family on board for encouragement and accountability!
Regarding a successful school year, eating habits can make all the di erence. Try these healthy hacks you can easily repeat all school year long:
BY: ANNE CUNDIFF,
Buy pre-cut fruits and vegetables, such as our Hy-Vee Short Cuts, in the refrigerated produce section to make consuming fresh produce easy. Plus, save time in the kitchen by having nutrient-dense fruits and veggies already prepped and ready to go in the fridge. Instead of buying whole, fresh produce, set aside some time at the beginning of the week or on the weekend to chop up the produce, and store them in containers in your fridge. You can also choose finger foods that don’t require any preparation, such as cherry tomatoes, grapes, clementines, sugar snap peas, or baby carrots.
You can purchase canned or frozen fruits or vegetables if you can’t get to the fresh produce before it goes bad. You won’t compromise on nutrition and won’t have to worry about a short shelf life. (Tip: When buying canned fruit, look for the “no sugar added” or “canned in water” label on the front of the can.) Throw a bag of steamable broccoli in the microwave to add to dinner or put some frozen berries into a smoothie for a nutritious after-school snack.
Set up a “smoothie station” for preschool fuel with various fruits, yogurt, and Fairlife milk. Include walnuts to boost brain health with omega-3 ALA. Allow kids to blend their concoction in a blender or smoothie maker. Making these options fun and rewarding for kids and adding them to your weekly routine are sure-fire ways to keep kids eating their produce into adulthood. For example, throw veggies into a delicious, simple, breakfast such as these Veggie Loaded Egg Mu ns. Want more dietitian-approved healthy hacks? Join our Hacks for Healthy Back-to-School Habits Challenge for a chance to win 1 of 5 $100 Hy-Vee gift cards! During this 1-week challenge, our team of dietitians will highlight the benefits of fresh produce and simple hacks for an easier and healthier back-to-school. Throughout the challenge, you will receive reminders to track and self-reflect on your progress meeting your produce goals. Visit Hy-Vee.com/Health to sign up today. Brought to you in partnership with the Foundation for Fresh Produce.
Scan this QR code to find your Hy-Vee dietician
RD, LD, FAND CORPORATE
All you need:
• 2 jarred roasted bell peppers
• 1 green onion
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 12 Hy-Vee large eggs
• ¼ cup Hy-Vee low-fat milk
Veggie Loaded Egg Mu ns
• ½ cup Soiree reduced-fat feta crumbled cheese
• 1 tsp Hy-Vee Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
All you do:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously spray the cups of a 12-cup mu n pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Finely chop roasted bell peppers, green onion and spinach; divide evenly among mu n cups. Top with Soiree feta cheese.
3. Whisk eggs with milk, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper in a large bowl.
4. Divide the egg mixture evenly among the mu n cups and bake until the eggs are set, about 22-25 minutes.
5. Cool in a mu n tin for 5 minutes before removing.
Recipe source: Veggie Loaded Egg Mu ns - American Egg Board (incredibleegg.org) Shop all of these ingredients at Hy-Vee Aisles Online.
The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
Spotlight on Repinned Luxury Upholstery Workroom
Riana LeJeune's journey into the world of upholstery began with a deep-seated passion for craftsmanship and a keen eye for detail. Born and raised in a family that appreciated artistry and creativity, she found herself drawn to the intricate work involved in restoring and enhancing furniture through upholstery.
After gaining hands-on experience and recognizing the lack of formalized training opportunities in the field, Riana embarked on a mission to change the status quo. She envisioned a structured apprenticeship program that would not only preserve the art of upholstery but also professionalize it to meet contemporary standards. With unwavering determination, she collaborated closely with the United States Department of Labor and Iowa Department of Apprenticeship to develop and implement the nation's inaugural Registered Apprenticeship for professional custom upholstery.
The program Riana crafted was comprehensive, blending traditional techniques with modern practices to equip apprentices with a well-rounded skill set. It emphasized the importance of precision, creativity, and sustainability in upholstery, reflecting Riana's own values and commitment to excellence.
Through her leadership and advocacy, Riana LeJeune is transforming the perception of upholstery from a niche skill into a respected profession. Her program set benchmarks for quality and professionalism, ensuring that apprentices emerged not only as skilled artisans but also as ambassadors for the craft. Graduates of the program will go on to contribute significantly to the preservation of historical furniture pieces and the enhancement of contemporary interiors.
Beyond her role in education and training, Riana remains actively involved in promoting the art of upholstery and supporting emerging craftsmen and women. Her dedication to elevating the industry continues to inspire individuals across the country, sparking a renewed appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry behind every upholstered piece.
Owner & Luxury Artisan
Riana LeJeune's pioneering spirit and innovative approach have left an indelible mark on the upholstery profession. Her legacy serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in the skilled trades.
Riana LeJeune
0 9 . 2 4 . 2 4 0 9 . 2 4 . 2 4 T H E T E A R O O M T H E T E A R O O M
REGISTER
Flourish is an annual event that provides a space for community investment in ideas that women-owned, gender non-conforming, and non-binary-owned business owners have to serve customers in the greater Des Moines community.
Flourish is an annual event that provides a space for community investment in ideas that women-owned, gender non-conforming, and non-binary-owned business owners have to serve customers in the greater Des Moines community.
We’re seeking innovative ideas that will spark, grow, or revamp businesses; importantly, ideas that people can get excited about!
We’re seeking innovative ideas that will spark, grow, or revamp businesses; importantly, ideas that people can get excited about!
Apply by July 31
Apply by July 31
Three finalists will present their ideas at the Flourish event on September 24 at The Tea Room.
Three finalists will present their ideas at the Flourish event on September 24 at The Tea Room.
Based on community votes, one finalist will earn the funds to be used for their business.
Based on community votes, one finalist will earn the funds to be used for their business.
Drinks will be available for purchase.
Drinks will be available for purchase.
APPLY TO PITCH
Divorce is hard.
Finding a great attorney shouldn’t be.
Miller, Zimmerman & Evans is the largest metro law firm focused on family law issues. Our experienced attorneys know family law inside and out. Whether you are dealing with divorce, custody, child support, adoption, or financial matters, we provide clients with the best advice to help them make confident decisions about their future. We make prompt communication a priority, and have the experience and insight to help with most di cult challenges.
Manufacturing is Iowa’s most innovative, creative, and productive sector. Delivering the lion’s share of Iowa’s GDP, the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast tells the story of our state’s economic heroes.
Subscribe for a weekly deep dive with leaders in manufacturing, those who support them, and leaders who empower their infrastructure.
Guests include Iowa Economic Development Authority Director, Debbie Durham. Gentry Collins, CEO of American Free Enterprise Chamber of Commerce, and BJ Spyksma, CEO of Aplos, and many others.
GREAT BENEFITS. LARGE NETWORKS.
FuseDSM offers dental and vision plans from Delta Dental of Iowa that are sure to make a big difference to your employees and their overall heath. And with a large network of both dental and vision providers, your employees could continue to see their same dentist or eye doctor.
TWO DENTAL NETWORKS, MORE CHOICES
Delta Dental’s unique dual network gives you more choices from a broader selection of dentists by utilizing two networks — Delta Dental PPO™ and Delta Dental Premier®
Of course, you are free to go to any dentist, but you’ll have the greatest benefit and lowest out-of-pocket costs by seeing a PPO dentist. Delta Dental Premier gives you a wider selection of dentists while keeping out-of-pocket costs economical.
When you see an out-of-network dentist, your out-ofpocket payment will be the higher because the dentist can charge you for billed amounts over the Delta Dental reimbursement.
DELTA DENTAL PREMIER DENTISTS
Includes 92% of Iowa dentists1 , with lower out-of-pocket costs and reduced benefits.
DELTA DENTAL PPO DENTISTS
Includes 41% of Iowa dentists1 , with the lowest out-of-pocket costs and best benefits.
VISION CARE WITH DELTAVISION
Routine vision exams aren’t just for those who need vision correction. Vision care is important to everyone’s overall health, and DeltaVision makes eyecare easy. With the largest network of vision providers, coverage is accepted at 125,000+ providers nationwide2, including a choice of independent and retail providers.
Scan the QR code or contact our Small Business Team to learn more.
jlenz@deltadentalia.com | (888) 337-5160
OUT-OF-NETWORK DENTISTS
Allows you to see an out-of-network dentist at higher costs with reduced benefits.
Choose a FuseDSM dental and vision plan through Delta Dental of Iowa and encourage your employees to take advantage of the preventive benefits your plan provides. To learn more about your benefits or find a provider, visit www.deltadentalia.com For your smile. For your health. For your community.
