FuseNews_April 2021_FuseDSM Your Chamber of Commerce Online Publication

news FIND US ONLINE @ FUSEDSM.ORG/FUSENEWS

YOUR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FUSING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER 130 East 3rd Street, Suite 301 / Des Moines, IA 50309 P / 515.829.4189 / fusedsm.org

SUSTAINABLE READING: 9

Des Moines Public Library BLANK PARK ZOO WILD LIGHTS: 14

Blank Park Zoo CELEBRATE EARTH DAY BY EATING THE RAINBOW: 26

Hyvee HOW TO STAY ACTIVE AS A FAMILY: 27

Dillon Anchor Fitness

FUSENEWS APRIL 2021

FUSING THE COMMUNIT Y TOGETHER FuseNews is an online publication delivered to our entire chamber membership every month, and consumed far beyond that reach. The publication contains timely & relevant information from local Des Moines voices that range from large to small businesses and entrepreneurs alike, addressing the issues specific to our community.

PART_01 / OUR MEMBERS

PART_02 / OUR COMMUNITY

PART_03 / OUR EXPERTS

FuseNewsis a collectionof updates and spotlightsfrom our FuseDSM, Your C hambero f Commerce, members. Join us as we highlight t he businesses within our Des Moines E ast, South and Northside, and connect a little along the way.

FuseDSM,Your Chamberof Commerce, containst he l argest footprint of businesses in D es Moines. E ncompassingt he E ast, South and Northside,follow along as w e connect our community with w ays t o give back, and f use people together .

FuseNews is a lwaysl ookingf or great expertarticlematerial.If you, or your businesshas helpfultips for our over 10k uniquev iewers,w e welcomeyou to share your story.

Visit fusedsm.org/fusenews or our socialm edia channels for more information.

Apply for a spotlight at fusedsm.org/fusenews, or contact us on any of our social channels for more information.

APPLY

INSIDE // FEB 2021 ON THE COVER //

MEMBER NEWS //

SUSTAINABLE READING: 9

COVID-19 UPDATE

Des Moines Public Library

COMMUNITY MARKETING

ZOO NIGHT LIGHTS: 14

RETAIL SPOTLIGHT

Blank Park Zoo

RESTARAUNT SPOTLIGHT

EATING THE RAINBOW: 26

APRIL MARKETING TIP

HyVee Dietician STAY ACTIVE AS A FAMILY: 27 Anchor Fitness

IN THE COMMUNITY // GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY 8 RETAIL SPOTLIGHT RESTARAUNT SPOTLIGHT

IN THE CHAMBER // CHAMBER UPDATES PAGE NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT PAGE HEALTHY HABITS VIRTUAL EVENTS PAGE AFFILIATE BENEFITS PAGE MEET THE BOARD PAGE

FUSEDSM // FROM THE CHAMBER Randy Sackett // Chair, Yellow & Capitol Cab Company Spring has sprung and the things are beginning to look brighter as the world begins to reopen. Iowa’s economy is looking to flex its muscle and our people are getting back to work.

Now, it appears the biggest challenge to employers seems to be finding people to fill the positions they are offering. Iowa’s unemployment rate is 3% and finding workers is like trying to find a house – the markets are hot and it is a sellers’ market.

FuseDSM recognizes this issue and in our recent strategy meeting we identified and formed a group specifically to address this challenge. Over the next few months we will be bringing employers large and small to the table to work together for FuseDSM to be your partner in workforce development and identifying ways to support the attraction and recruitment of talent for our members.

We look forward to continuing to serve our members and meet their everchanging needs. Be watching for more news in the upcoming weeks.

All this to say, we are here, working for you. Let us know how we can support or connect you within the community. And as always, let’s keep #FusingTheCommunityTogether.

Join us for our next event simply by checking our chamber calendar and registering today- We look forward to continuing to ignite your growth in 2021!

Let’s keep #FusingTheCommunityTogether

Randy Sackett

Randy Sackett, Chair, - FuseDSM

HOW CAN FUSEDSM HELP

ARE YOU READY TO CELEBRATE OUR MEMBERS? We’ve developed a super fun INTERACTIVE zoom event, where businesses will sponsor breakout room activities and then come back together to celebrate.

Our emcee, Jackie Schmillen, will be announcing the award winners for each category, sprinkling in success stories to really celebrate our triumphs.

Networking: 4pm-5pm Awards: 5pm-6:30pm

FUSEDSM AWARD CELEBRATION APRIL 29TH, 2021 AT 4 PM REGISTER

GET INVOLVED // CHAMBER EVENTS

PRESENTING MORNING FUEL IN PERSON! // Presented by Trixies Salon Join FuseDSM and Trixies Salon as we return to the first IN PERSON morning networking event since 2019! The Morning Fuel networking event is simple - no program, outside of a few words from our monthly host, a simple gathering with heavy connecting and relationship building. The chamber has missed you and we know you have missed connecting in real time.

Date: Tuesday APRIL, 20th 8AM-10AM Sign Up: fusedsm.org

REGISTER

MORNING FUEL VIRTUAL // Presented by Empowered Bridge Join FuseDSM and Empowered Bridge Mindset Coaching for the monthly ONLINE Morning Fuel networking event!

This monthly virtual event is a chance to stay connected with your fellow chamber members for those that are not yet comfortable being at in person events just yet, however, anyone is welcome to join in to get additional networking time in!Date: Tuesday May 4, 2021, Tuesday June 8, 2021 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM CDT Sign Up: fusedsm.org

REGISTER

FEED YOUR MIND // Elizabeth Coonan, Davis Brown Law Firm As the World begins to phase in re-opening and businesses are weighing when to begin bringing employees back in to the office, or if they will at all, navigating the pandemic and safety of employees in the workforce continues to be an ongoing issue for employers, no matter their size. Beth Coonan, an attorney specializing in employment, will provide insight and key considerations to support businesses as they weight decisions around employee COVID-19 vaccination policies and the variety of workforce issues that arise due to the pandemic.

Date: Wednesday April 14th, 11:00 am-12:00 pm

REGISTER

Heidi Kroll / Wine Guide

IN PERSON MONTHLY LUNCHEON // Living & Thriving with Mental Illness May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we are thrilled to welcome Gina Skinner-Thebo to share her story. Gina will share her experience of living with chronic to severe depression and how it has impacted her life. She speaks candidly about her experiences and she works to educate others about how mental illness impacts everyone.

Date: Thursday May 13, 2021 Embassy Suites Downtown 101 E. Locust Street Des Moines, IA 50309

REGISTER

NON-PROFIT FORUM // Non Profit Employee Development & Training Employee Development and Training is a pain point for all businesses, but especially so for non profit organizations that often do not have the budget that larger for-profit organizations have.

Add a world wide pandemic to the mix, along with the needs of stakeholders and requirements in meeting industry standards, never before has the need for proper employee development and training in the non profit sector been so important. Join FuseDSM in learning how to navigate these pain points for our non profit organizations.

Date: Wednesday April 21, 2021 Time: 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM Sign Up: fusedsm.org

REGISTER

WELCOME // NEW MEMBER

Caseys General Store3200 sw 9th st.

International Paper Recycling

US Small Business Administration

Des Moines Parent

MARKETING SERVICES $1200

WEBPAGE FOR YOUR BUSINESS

$650

VIDEO CLIP

$650

EVENT PROMOTION

LIBRARY CORNER // DMPL SUSTAINABLE READING // DMPL This Earth Month, check out a book – in print, or in digital eBook or eAudiobook form – at the Des Moines Public Library and contribute to sustainable practices. The library also features a large collection of books exploring nature, climate change, and more. Below is a sampling of perfect Earth Month reads. You can find an even larger list of suggested Earth Month reads at dmpl.org/blog.

Down From the Mountain: The Life & Death of a Grizzly Bear, by Bryce Andrews Andrews follows the struggles of real-life grizzly bear Millie and her cubs in the rural American West as the climate warms and humans settle terrains that were previously untouched.

Floating Coast: An Environmental history of the Bering Strait, by Bathsheba Demuth Demuth provides a fresh and fascinating perspective on what once was one of the most important land bridges in human history. It’s a resonant tale of dynamic changes and unforeseen consequences.

Fathoms: The World in the Whale, by Rebecca Giggs Giggs takes us on a journey to learn about whales so rare they’ve never been named, whale songs that sweep across entire hemispheres, and whales that have changed the composition of our atmosphere.

The Future Earth: A Radical Vision for What’s Possible in the Age of Warming, by Eric Holthaus Hopeful and prophetic, The Future Earth invites readers to imagine how we can reverse the effects of climate change in our own lifetime and encourages us to enter a deeper relationship with the Earth.

Owls of the Eastern Ice: A Quest to Find and Save the World’s Largest Owl, by Jonathan C. Slaght Slaght and a team of field scientists set out to locate and protect the highly endangered and elusive Blakiston’s fish owls of eastern Asia, which can grow up to two feet tall with a wingspan of six feet, in this powerful reminder of the beauty and vulnerability of nature.

The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate – Discoveries from a Secret World, by Peter Wohlleben Wohlleben presents the science behind the unknown life of trees, including how tree parents live with their children and in what ways eco-friendly practices benefit both trees and humans.

Looking for more options? You can also get more great suggestions for books and stories by going to dmpl.org/ book-chat.

SIDEBAR: DMPL is open again!

For the first time since March 2020, all six locations of the Des Moines Public Library are now open for full days Monday through Saturday. Available services include browsing, holds pickups, copy/printing, public computer usage, and more.

For a full list of hours and available services go to dmpl.org/reopen.

READ MORE HERE

MEMBER NEWS // DENTONS DAVIS BROWN DAVIS BROWN LAW FIRM NOW DENTONS DAVIS BROWN // Denton March 29, 2021 – Dentons has launched a previously announced combination with Iowa’s leading law firm, Davis Brown Law Firm, now known as Dentons Davis Brown. In 2020, in the midst of a global pandemic and economic crisis, Dentons accounted for 85% of all cross-border combinations around the world in an environment where other law firms were standing still, contracting or withdrawing from key markets.

In the New Dynamic Decade, clients will continue to be confronted with constant, accelerated change and want to work with a law firm that has the experience and confidence to help them thrive wherever they are located. Dentons is the first law firm to institutionalize growth and the combination with Davis Brown continues the momentum of Project Golden Spike, a series of combinations dedicated to advancing the first truly national US law firm capable of helping clients across 44 US locations and 200 locations in 79 countries around the world.

“We are thrilled to be launching Dentons Davis Brown in Iowa, a location with a diversified economy and a priority market for our clients,” said Elliott Portnoy, Global CEO of Dentons. “Like Dentons, Dentons Davis Brown continues to be recognized for its high-quality legal service and focus on inclusion and diversity initiatives and together, we will be better positioned to not only meet but to exceed our clients’ needs.”

“As we enter a New Dynamic Decade, our clients will continue to face constant, accelerated change,” said Joe Andrew, Global Chairman of Dentons. “We are committed to scaling our presence through combinations with exceptional firms such as Davis Brown, the leader in the Iowa market, who have the experience and confidence needed to help our clients thrive.”

Iowa and Des Moines in particular are experiencing a wave of momentum in economic growth, population growth, and development. The state serves as a business hub for a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, agrobioscience, data centers, insurance, financial services, and technology. This combination expands Dentons’ geographic offering and further strengthens Dentons’ existing Midwest offices.

Dentons Davis Brown will enhance the depth and breadth of services available to clients among highly regarded practices, including Corporate, Employment, Healthcare, Insurance, Litigation, Construction, and Real Estate, as well as opportunities for growth through smart collaboration in areas including Immigration, Intellectual Property, Agriculture, Energy, Cross-Border M&A, Public Law, and Finance.

Renowned for its personal and academic excellence, creativity, integrity, and motivation, Dentons Davis Brown is ranked Band 1 by Chambers and Partners in all five practice areas available in the Iowa chapter of Chambers USA, and the firm has also been recognized as the Best Law Firm in Des Moines for 15 consecutive years by the Business Record, the preeminent business journal in Iowa.

“We are excited to be coming together with Dentons as we look to build a truly national law firm in the US - the world’s largest legal market,” said John Pietila, President of Dentons Davis Brown. “This launch speaks to our commitment to our clients, and a demonstration of our focus on continuing to provide exceptional client service in Iowa, the US, and beyond.”

“The Golden Spike model is game-changing for firms like Davis Brown because we can offer comprehensive services to our clients not only nationally but also globally,” said Lori Chesser, Chair of the Immigration Department of Dentons Davis Brown. “Our clients will continue to work with the lawyers they know and trust while taking advantage of the resources and expertise Dentons provides.”

Project Golden Spike also enables outstanding US legal practices like Dentons Davis Brown to maintain their defining characteristics and provide in and of the community insight wherever clients need it.

“Now more than ever before, law firms need to adapt to the accelerated change that they face to meet the needs of their clients,” said Toby McClamroch, Managing Partner of Dentons United States Region. “This combination represents the next step in our journey to better serving our clients across the 100 largest legal markets in the US.” So far, in 2021 Dentons has announced combinations with Ecuadorian law firm, Paz Horowitz Abogados, and Bolivian law firm, Guevara & Gutierrez, and launched Dentons EALC East African Law Chambers in Tanzania.

Arts & Culture, Inc.

April 1 - May 31, 2021 Arts & Culture, Inc.

Presented by:

In Partnership with: Arts & Culture, Inc. Arts & Culture, Inc.

Media Partner:

NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT // BLANK PARK ZOO GET TO KNOW THE ZOO // BLANK PARK ZOO It costs $19,000 a day to operate Blank Park Zoo and the significant financial impacts of COVID on nonprofits and countless businesses and individuals, has had that same impact on your local Zoo, particularly during the time of our state-mandated closure and since we have been under capacity restrictions. We are truly humbled by the generous community support we have received during such an unprecedented and challenging time for everyone and deeply appreciate the words of encouragement and gratitude from community members who have turned to our organization as a place to reengage with nature and escape the pandemic to the extent possible during their visits here.

We look forward to welcoming all to our inaugural Wild Lights Festival in partnership with Tianyu Arts and Culture and presented

by MidAmerican Energy starting April 1st and continuing through May 31st (nightly Wednesdays through Sundays from 7-10pm, excluding May 1). The Tianyu artisans have carefully crafted a truly magical visual and interactive experience throughout Zoo grounds and we hope people come and enjoy it! Enjoy a stunning festival of over 35 larger-than-life illuminated animal shaped Asian lanterns designed and fabricated by artisans.Coming to Blank Park Zoo this April and May, immerse your family in light and culture in a limited capacity, social distance friendly festival. There are lots of other fun things planned throughout the year, so please check out blankparkzoo.com and our social media for more details.

Quick Facts: April 1-May 31 (nightly, Wednesday – Sunday plus Memorial Day) Time: 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. (last admission at 9:30 p.m.)

Cost: $20/person; $18/Zoo member (ages one and under are free) Packages: Gour pack tickets: $72 or $64/member Group tickets: Group ticket discounts for groups of 40 or more. Call 515-974-2506 for more information.

Ticket Sales: Member ticket sales start February 19; Public ticket sales begin on February 25

LEARN MORE HERE

HEALTHY HABITS // WHOLE HEALTH CHIRO SUPPRESSED IMMUNE SYSTEM // WHOLE HEALTH CHIRO Our society is deficient in numerous ways; we want to explore with you avenues that can be taken to reduce your personal deficiencies.

To start, immune health is HUGE. With the rise of COVID-19, science has dedicated more time to finding out what underlying conditions are and how they can be treated. Nearly 80% of COVID-19 patients were found to have Vitamin D deficiency and a lower immune system function. The immune system can be suppressed in various ways, each of which lower immune system function, or the ability to fight disease.

In order to start reducing the negative effects on the immune system, we need to look inward at changes we can make in our own lifestyles!

What can you do at home?

Immune system function can be increased with a combination of a balanced diet, ample exercise, taking vitamins and supplements and more.

What do supplements do and why should I take them?

The biggest nutrient deficiencies in the United States are iron, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, calcium and magnesium. The start to your health journey and at home care is regulating those deficiencies with supplements.

Supplements help regulate your immune system function with some added benefits. Vitamin D increases help facilitate immune system function and promote bone growth. Vitamin B12 helps keeps nerves and blood cells healthy and is even involved in the process of making DNA. Calcium and magnesium are both also wonderful to promote bone strength and overall immune system health.

Can I still eat good food with a balanced diet?

A common misconception is that healthy food is bland or just not as good as that fried drive-thru food. We understand that getting in your fruits and veggies can be boring at face value, it is why we use Zestful Kitchen for wonderful recipes. Need a healthy Meatless Monday meal or some healthy cookies? Go to zestfulkitchen.com!

What else can I do to help the immune system?

Water. Water. Water. Consuming enough water throughout your day helps protect your tissues and spinal cord, regulate your body temperature, excrete waste and harmful bacteria and more! But drinking more water isn’t the only small change you can make.

Sleep. Sleep. Sleep. Make sure you are replacing your pillows once a year, any longer than that can produce a strain on the spine and in turn reduce immune system functioning.

What can Whole Health Chiropractic do for you?

Chiropractic adjustments have been found to reduce subluxations through spinal manipulations and thus create a healthier immune system. Specifically, adjustments can increase white blood cell count. Here at Whole Health Chiropractic, our slogan is Live the Life you Love. Our goal is to help you live the life you love through proper immune health! Feeling your best requires being your best, call our office at 515-277-0366 to schedule an appointment!

Want more information about what chiropractic can do for you? Visit our website at https://wholehealthdesmoines.com!

LEARN MORE HERE

COMMUNITY MARKETING // LOVE LOCAL 6 DIGITAL MARKETING MOVES YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS SHOULD MAKE IN 2021// LOVE LOCAL As the world continues to become more and more digital, your online presence absolutely must be on point in 2021. Consumers are making decisions about you all the time and the more clarity and strategy you have behind a strong, solidified presence, the more business you will generate.

1. Email Marketing You own the email addresses you collect. From brand new leads who are curious about your offerings to loyal customers who can’t wait to hear what you’re launching next, email marketing is still a fantastic avenue to generate new and repeat business.

2. Instagram If you attended the workshop we hosted earlier this year, you know how important Instagram is for local brands. The ability to search, share, and create a wide-range of content is unlike any other social platform.

By using Instagram strategically & consistently, you can build a large audience of people who are ready to take the next step with you!

3. Facebook Groups If you are an expert on a topic or you want to create a “challenge” for your customers (where they can invite a friend), Facebook Groups are one of the best tools to use on Facebook, outside of your personal profile.

Not keen on starting a group? If you know your ideal customers are hanging out in Facebook Groups, be part of the conversation. Add value in comments, post relevant, engaging content. Position yourself as the expert in your field.

4. Personal Brand It’s easy to hide behind a beautiful product or stunning website, but in local markets we oftentimes do business with PEOPLE we know, like, and trust. How are you using social media to connect with people? How do you show up on your personal Facebook profile? Your LinkedIn? Humanize your business brand by leverage your personal brand.

5. Collect Reviews Make sure you’re always asking for reviews on Google or Facebook and then getting the most mileage out of them by sharing them on Instagram posts, Instagram Stories, Facebook Posts, and on your website. You never know who is going to see that their 4th grade teacher left a positive review about you and then decided to say YES to your offer because they trusted their old teacher.

6. Partner with Local Influencers Talking to your own audience all the time won’t get you as far as partnering with other people, like the Des Moines hummingbirds! Working with other bloggers or local brands with similar audiences to you will increase your visibility in cost-effective ways.

Listen to Episode 12 of Local to Legend where we break down specific examples of clients using these strategies to grow their business.

LEARN MORE HERE

COVID-19 UPDATE // MEDICAP PHARMACY CREATING A SAFE WORKPLACE // Medicap Pharmacy

Creating a safe workplace for employees has always been important, but now it is more important than ever! The COVID-19 pandemic has created several new challenges, especially for businesses looking to reopen. Medicap Pharmacy is helping local employers bring their employees back to work, safely and confidently by offering onsite COVID vaccine clinics. Medicap Pharmacy has offered flu clinics to employers for many years and realize the role they play to help keep employees healthy.

“As a community pharmacist, we have an established relationship within our community, and we have been a trusted healthcare resource throughout the year, especially during flu season and the pandemic. And now it’s time to offer a shot of hope to local businesses who want to open their doors and bring their workforce back safely. We are equipped and ready to serve employers by offering electronic consent forms and convenient online scheduling,” said Cheri Schmit, Director of Clinical Pharmacy.

LEARN MORE HERE

WHAT MOVES YOU? A song? Fresh coffee? Going places?

What moves us is getting you where you need to be.

What do you wish public transit could do for you and your organization?

Think big. Think about yourself. Think about our region.

DART is creating a new long-term transit plan that will determine how its service can adapt to meet the evolving transportation needs of organizations and individuals in central Iowa. Complete our survey and tell us how well DART’s service is meeting your travel needs and what you’d like to see in the future.

See the list of virtual meetings – and take our survey: ridedart.com/plan

INK AND RECYCLING // SIEGWERK How does ink play an essential role in recyclability?

Packaging plays a major role in everyone’s lives, such as food and household packaging products that you find in any store, but have you ever considered the recyclability of these items?

The goal in recyclability is to create a closed and regenerative loops of material – or “reduce – reuse - recycle”. This approach calls for new packaging structures that increase utilization rates and recyclability of materials. But making a packaging recyclable isn’t just the structure itself, as inks and coatings also play an essential enabling role to support this initiative.

Siegwerk, a global manufacturer of printing inks, believes in the benefits of a Circular Economy and protecting the environment by using the methods of reduce, reuse and recycle. We are actively driving innovations that specifically address the needs to help increase recyclability or reduce the need for plastic use and other non-renewable raw materials, enabling the development of innovative sustainable and circular packaging solutions.

One innovative solution is deinking, this is where bottles are placed in a special caustic solution that will remove the ink from the label, leaving the bottle clear of ink and contamination. This enables the plastic to have a second life to possibly become a bottle again (See the video for further explanation). There are also other opportunities to close technical performance gaps of certain materials, such as paper and mono-plastic, improving their properties and therefore allowing their use for new applications. Inks and coatings allow the switch from multi-material layered to mono-material layered plastic packaging while maintaining the functionality of the original packaging such as the protection of food and thereby create recyclability of packaging components.

We actively cooperate with various associations within the industry, as it is not just about ink when speaking about circular economy, but about the integrated solutions as part of an overall framework of the whole packaging supply chain. We are working with several industry initiatives that focus on enhancing recycling properties such as CEFLEX (Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging) and Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), just to name a few, that are trying to help shape the inks and packaging markets with their conclusions, which are driving the achievement of set recycling targets.

Siegwerk is committed to becoming a circular solutions provider by 2025 and is committed to rethINK packaging. Learn more at https:// www.siegwerk.com/en/circulareconomy.html

YOUR EMPLOYEES ARE LIKE FAMILY, TREAT THEM THAT WAY.

RESTARAUNT SPOTLIGHT // KLN AN INCREDIBLE SANDWICH // KELLY’S LITTLE NIPPER The Trevor sandwich is an incredible sandwich named after one incredible kid named Trevor Schwager. Trevor is alive & well today, but only in our hearts & minds, as God wanted him even more than we enjoyed him when he lived on this earth.

Trevor was taken from all of us on this earth in December of 2017, shortly after his 18th birthday in an auto accident. The specific date is not important because what is important was the life he led, the people he touched, & the overwhelming spirit he left behind. He is like no other young man you ever knew or will ever know.

Trevor is an athlete. Trevor is the hardest working person you ever knew. He is a grass cutting, lawn mowing, mechanically inclined working machine (notice I did not say kid, but person).

Trevor is in FFA & is one of the best listeners to your story if you are a toddler, a kid or, an adult.

Trevor is handsome & full of muscles. Trevor is just plain ornery.

Trevor is the favorite student at Dowling High School. Today & forever, Trevor is the favorite in the neighborhood with kids & grownups alike.

Trevor buys his mom a puppy after being told not to do so. Trevor will come fix your tire or bring you gas if you are on the side of the road needing help if you are a friend or even a complete stranger.

Trevor has a nose for the brisket & would wander over to the house & ask, “What ya got cookn there?” knowing all well it was the famous jalapeño smoked brisket. He is always welcome to have some, & somehow he timed it out to show up again when it was coming off the grill. I smile now just thinking of his grin as he chowed down a piece . . . or ten.

Appreciate what you have in life with your family, your friends, & all those you touch. I know Trevor does. He lived life to its fullest every single day & each person he knew would tell you the same. Trevor Schwager is one of a kind & we are all blessed to have him in our lives.

READ MORE HERE

RETAIL SPOGLIGHT // DSM MERCANTILE A LITTLE ABOUT US // DES MOINES MERCANTILE Des Moines Mercantile is reminiscent of the one-stop-shop general store. We are located in the historical Highland Park business district on the North side of Des Moines, Iowa.

Our merchandise celebrates simpler times through quality craftsmanship of everyday goods. You will find useful items for your home, kitchen, desk, and even your belly. We strive to provide an experience that feels like home; where everyone is welcome and where anyone can find something to treasure.

We want to give you an experience that feels like home and we don’t want that to stop within the walls of our brick and mortar shop. The goods we cary in our shop (and here online) have potential to help tell your story. Our hope is that our products contribute simplicity, slowness, and belonging to your life.

READ MORE HERE

MONTHLY LUNCHEON SPEAKER

// GINA SKINNER

LIVING AND THRIVING WITH MENTAL ILLNESS // GINA SKINNER

Join FuseDSM for our Feed Your Mind prsentation on Thursday May 13. In the presentation, Gina shares her experience of living with chronic to severe depression and how it has impacted her life. She speaks candidly about her experiences and she works to educate others about how mental illness impacts everyone.

Gina Skinner-Thebo is a Senior Employment Investigator in which she specializes in Title VII protections. Gina has volunteered with NAMI (National Association for Mental Illness) and is an advocate for mental health awareness.

Gina serves on the Board of Directors for Dental Connections and enjoys coaching soccer. She is married to her high school sweetheart and lives in Ankeny, Iowa with her husband and children. Most often, she can be found at the gym or grocery store.

MEET THE NOMINEES // AWARD CELEBRATION Central Iowa Center for Idependent Living // Starts Right Here // St. Vincent de Paul This award is given annually to a 501(c) organization that is a member of FuseDSM, and demonstrates strong ethical standards, leadership among employees, and is actively engaged toward helping those in the East, North or South Des Moines community.

Dr. Jon Van Der Veer, Exemplar Care // Cassie Sampson, East Village Spa // Chris Manning, Photos by Manning This award is given annually to an entrepreneur who has demonstrated excellence and extraordinary success in such areas as innovation, risk and personal commitment to their businesses and community. We are seeking to recognize a member who exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit exhibited by former East Des Moines Chamber President, Jim Goodman.

Bill & Pam Thompson // Tricia Rivas // Linda Westergaard This award is given annually to an individual that has given freely and selfishly of their time, talent, and energy to the East, North or South Des Moines community. This individual does not need to be a member of FuseDSM, but their impact must be one that can be seen within the East, North and South areas of the City of Des Moines.

Siegwerk // Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company // Kemin Inudstries This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM and recognizes a manufacturer or distributor demonstrating exemplary customer service and excellence in its industry.

Considerations are, but not limited to, company growth, technological advances, corporate citizenship, green efforts/ sustainability and workforce excellence.

Food Bank of Iowa // Broadlawns Medical Center // Central Iowa Center for Independent Living This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM and recognizes a business or organization that is a “force” for good in making a positive difference in our community. The recipient will be selected for their demonstrated success, innovation and contributions to the community.

West Bank // Iowa State Bank // Kemin Industries This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM that exhibits the following criteria in the workplace: Positive values and reinforcement; relaxed and productive atmosphere; commitment to excellence; open and honest communication; cooperation, support & empowerment of their employees; sense of humor; compassion, respect & understanding; flexibility; emphasis on health, family & the environment.

Kwik Star // Casey's // HyVee // Fareway This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM that exhibits the following criteria in the workplace: Positive values and reinforcement; relaxed and productive atmosphere; commitment to excellence; open and honest communication; cooperation, support & empowerment of their employees; sense of humor; compassion, respect & understanding; flexibility; emphasis on health, family & the environment.

Captain Roy's // Latin King // Mullets This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM and recognizes a restaurant or bar demonstrating exemplary customer service and excellence in its industry, while also making an impact in the community.

West Bank // Creative DSM // Yellow Cab Co. This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM and recognizes a business or organization who has gone above and beyond in support and encouragement of FuseDSM, Your Chamber of Commerce. Contributions will include, but not be limited too, length of membership, devotion to the chamber, financial investment in support of FuseDSM programs and events, encouragement to the community to be involved with the chamber.

Tyler Miller // Andi Fagen // MaeLee Rahm This award is given annually to a member of FuseDSM and recognizes a young professional making outstanding contributions in their industry and give back to the community encompassing the East, North and South areas of the City of Des Moines.

Creme & ChaCha's Confections // Baratta's // Jasper Winery This award is given to a member of FuseDSM and recognizes a restaurant, retail or bar with an amazing ToGo product, whether signature cocktail, activity kit, take and bake or meal for pickup.

Trixies Salon // East Village Spa // HyVee // Fareway // Unity Point // Broadlawns This award celebrates a FuseDSM member who's business was significantly impacted, but responded with new creative ways of survival. This award goes to a true survivor of 2020.

DIET COLUMN// HYVEE CELEBRATE EARTH DAY BY EATING THE RAINBOW // HYVEE Thanks to this wonderful earth and its rich soil, warm sunshine and plentiful rain, we have opportunities to grow, harvest and eat nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. Celebrate Earth Day by enjoying 5 different shades of fruits and veggies throughout the day. Here’s a reminder of the health benefits received by eating the rainbow of colors found in the produce aisle of your Hy-Vee. Red Examples: strawberries, raspberries, apples, tomatoes, red peppers, red onions Nutrient-rich in: vitamin C, vitamin A and lycopene Benefits: All 3 nutrients are powerful antioxidants involved in preventing disease or its progression, slowing down the aging process and aiding our immune system response.

Orange & Yellow Examples: oranges, peaches, mangos, carrots, spaghetti squash, pumpkin Nutrient-rich in: carotenoids which convert to vitamin A, vitamin C Benefits: Eye-health and vision, disease prevention, slows down aging process, helps our immune system

Green Examples: spinach, lettuce, kale, peas, broccoli, green beans, Brussels sprouts Nutrient-rich in: chlorophyll, lutein, vitamins A, C, E and K, folate Benefits: Eye-health and heart health, helps the blood clot, helps transport oxygen in the blood, helps the immune system, helps prevent birth defects, helps the bone marrow make red and white blood cells, repairs DNA to help protect against cancer, helps convert carbohydrates to energy

Blue or purple Examples: blueberries, blackberries, plums, purple cabbage, eggplant, purple potatoes Nutrient-rich in: natural plant compounds - anthocyanins and polyphenols, vitamins C, E and K Benefits: Heart health, cancer prevention, urinary tract health, improves memory and brain health, helps prevent blood clotting, improves digestion, helps the immune system and slows down aging process

White Examples: cauliflower, onion, potatoes, mushrooms, turnips, bananas, pears Nutrient-rich in: potassium, magnesium, fiber-like compounds beta-glucans and lignans Benefits: helps lower elevated blood pressure, helps lower the bad cholesterol and with overall heart health, supports digestive system, helpful in prevention of colon cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer

You are invited! Reach out to a Hy-Vee dietitian for ideas on how to incorporate these fruits and vegetables into your daily intake. You can connect with a Hy-Vee dietitian on our virtual nutrition services platform: Go to www.hy-vee.com/health and schedule a complimentary Discovery Session. We offer a variety of services to help you meet your health goal, lower your cholesterol or learn more about controlling your blood pressure or blood sugars. Options include individual nutrition counseling, Healthy Habits menu plan program, virtual nutrition store tours and more!

Celebrate Earth Day on April 22. Here’s a nutrient-rich pesto recipe to include in your quest to eat five shades of nutrient-rich fruits and veggies.

Purple Pesto Makes 1 cup All you need: 2 tbsp + 2 tsp Gustare Vita olive oil // 1 cup shredded red cabbage // ¼ cup finely chopped red onion, plus onion slices for garnish // ¼ cup chopped Red Delicious apple // 2 cloves garlic, minced // 2 tsp Hy-Vee apple cider vinegar // ¾ cup Hy-Vee grated Parmesan cheese Optional: serve with whole-grain bread or crackers

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HOW TO STAY ACTIVE AS A FAMILY// DILLON ANCHOR FITNESS I GET IT! It’s hard to get everyone together and to find time to commit movement every day as a family.

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But hard doesn’t mean impossible. There’s a word above that I want you to focus in on here: MOVEMENT. Notice I said “movement” and not exercise, or fitness, or workout, or training, etc.

Movement.

This can literally be anything you want it to be, so long as you are being active and moving.

Lets back up a bit so I can prove to you that I have street-cred in the areas of speaking to families and time management.

I’m a dedicated husband, father of three amazing little mini-me’s: Maximus is six, Maverick is two, and Zeppelin-Rose is eight months; two boys and a girl, all six and under. As if this isn’t enough proof, this is [just] my family. Along with these amazing humans I have in my life, I also own and operate two businesses, Anchor Fitness & Nutrition for adults as well as AnchorKIDS for youth; I also have a personal brand where I do public speaking, just launched a lifestyle apparel line, and work with individuals to help optimize their lives through five distinct pillars - The Dillon Burns Method, Inc. There’s more, but you get the gist of what I’m trying to say here. Yes, I do have a family and yes, I do have endeavors outside of my family that take away a majority of my time. So trust me when I say that I get it, it’s tough to get the family together and move.

Here’s what I do to bring my family together and help to keep us active all year round. Please feel free to do exactly this with your family or chop it up and make it your own so that it fits into your day to day timeframes and life.

“Absorb what is useful, discard what is useless, and add what is specifically your own.” - Bruce Lee My wife likes to workout in the morning and she doesn’t have a gym membership. If you read my article last month, then you know that we have a decent (budgeted) set up in our garage that was mostly found on Facebook Marketplace. To that end, I create a workout for us every day and put it on the board for her. If we have time to do it together that day, then we’ll get it in together and more to the point, I have a theory about this: Couples that #SlayTogetherStayTogether. All in all, this is about an hour in total of moderate to vigorous physical activity for the adults.

Here’s what the actual Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans says for kids: “Children ages 6-17 should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Children ages 3-5 should be physically active throughout the day for proper health and development.”

I know we’re not currently talking about nutrition, but I wanted to put this out there for you as well and it comes directly from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and myself: “Children should be eating fruits & veggies, nuts & seeds, lean proteins, some starchy carbohydrates and good fats, and little to no sugar. Minimize beverages other than water as much as possible.”

Okay, now we’ve got that knocked out (important stuff to know as parents), back to what I do in hopes that you can make it your own.

When my Maximus gets home from school, NO TABLET. We’re outside if it’s nice and playing together for at least an hour. If the weather is bad, we’re in the garage or our studio doing some sort of movement. If babies are sleeping and we can’t jam out to his favorite tunes, I’m literally chasing him through the house (quietly) and wrestling around with him. None of this involves a gym membership or even leaving the house and it call be done with the whole fam.

When Maverick gets home from daycare, he’s usually pretty exhausted already. But if not, we run around with him too before bath time.

Parenting PRO-TIP: We always toss a handful of lavender bath salt (magnesium sulfate) into the water if it’s before bed. Try it! You can pick up a 5lb bag from most any health market.

And now for what you’ve all been waiting for! When we are actually all together, here’s exactly what we do: We go on walks! It’s that simple. The hardest part is breaking through the habits that have already been built in place for years of inactivity or whatever else may take up your time when together as a family.

Get the kiddos on their bikes if they’re old enough to ride, pack the rest up in a stroller or two, and head out on an adventure with the whole fam!

Here’s my challenge to you though, in all seriousness parents. The next time your whole family is together, take inventory of what you’re doing with your time. If you are spending time on your phone, “working from home” in the off hours, not interacting with your family for no good reasons, then here’s what I want you to do.

Be the leader your kids need you to be and get the whole family active!

Those other things will literally always be there. Your family might not be. Use your time wisely.

Our website is currently under construction, but when it’s up and running you can go to https://www.anchorkidsorg.com for all the ways to stay active with your family, our podcast built for parents, The LEGACY Leaders Podcast, and a ton more.

In the meantime, you can follow us on Instagram @anchorkidsorg or join our community on Facebook @AnchorKidsOrg

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT // SHALLEE KEENAN SHALLEE KEENAN // KEMIN In 1961, Kemin Industries was founded in Des Moines, Iowa. From the humbling beginnings on a sheep farm on the southeast side, Kemin has been committed to the growth and development of our community. FuseDSM works to do just that, build a strong community, strong businesses, strong employers, strong people.

Kemin is proud to be a part of that community growth and support those efforts.

“As the world’s population continues to grow at a rapid rate, so does the need for solutions to assist producers and consumers to address issues such as food insecurity. As originators of countless ingredients that improve the health and lives of humans, pets and animals, Kemin strives to do more and has set a new global vision to take the company to 2042 and beyond: We strive to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with our products and services.

For Kemin to transform 80 percent of the world’s population – approximately 8 billion – people must encounter Kemin products five times each day. From sunrise to sunset, a person may have eggs for breakfast, feed their pet, wear jeans, take a supplement and purchase bakery items or meat at the market – all opportunities that include Kemin ingredients.

Along with this vision, the new Kemin logo reflects the company’s focus on future growth while respecting our history through a thoughtful evolution of the Kemin brand identity. With a new vision and transformed logo, we are focused on expanding Kemin’s global reach. By incorporating a triple-bottom-line approach into all aspects of our business, and with Kemin’s expertise on how to nourish, protect and innovate on a global scale, we are

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT // ATHLETICO We started with one therapist trying to make a difference in his community. Our Founder and Executive Chairman, Mark Kaufman was a physical therapist and athletic trainer with a vision to help as many people as possible. He started by providing rehabilitation services for student athletes at various organizations, with his first two being Francis W. Parker High School and Chicago Lions Rugby. Through his work with these athletes, he recognized the need for a dedicated sports rehabilitation and physical therapy facility in Chicago which led to our first clinic opening in 1991. Years later – we’ve opened more than 500 neighborhood locations and added more services to help people of all ages recover from pains, strains and injuries. We employ more than 4,500 expert clinicians, athletic trainers and other team members. In addition to physical therapy, we also provide athletic training, occupational therapy, specialty programs and fitness services to high schools, colleges and professional sports teams. Our expertise also includes evaluating workers’ compensation issues, like work conditioning, job-site analysis and ergonomic assessments.

Everything we do is focused around our core purpose of enhancing people’s health and quality of life.

When you choose us for your rehabilitation needs, you will discover our dedication to exceptional, compassionate care.

MARKETING COLUMN // CREATIVE DSM ARE YOU A USED CAR SALESMAN? // Andi Fagen If the answer is no, then stop writing like one. You know what I am talking about: “ON SALE NOW - NOW ONLY $79.99 - GET A FREE X WITH PURCHASE.” Guess what, we are definitely sick of being SOLD. The modern consumer wants to curate their own life. They are savvy and want to research up on their problem, and make the decision without you screaming in their ear.

My April Marketing Tip: Learn Your Buyers Journey Learn where your customers are, provide value that meets their needs, educate them on your USP, THEN close the deal. Competing on price is not the way to do business. Providing value is the way of the future.

Let’s keep #FusingTheCommunityTogether

Andi Fagen

Andi Fagen - Founder - Creative DSM | Digital & Social Marketing

FREE ADVICE HERE

FIRESTARTER SPOTLIGHT // EMILY CORY SPOTLIGHT // EMILY CORY My favorite part about being involved in the FuseDSM Chamber would have to be TOSS or the monthly Lunch and Learns. TOSS is always a fun evening to relax and try foods from our local, Des Moines restaurants that maybe I haven’t been to yet. Not to mention the opportunity for silent auction prizes! The Lunch and Learns are a great networking and professional development opportunity that allows me to walk away with more knowledge and/or perspective than I came in with.

This year will be my 8th year at Lamar Advertising as an Account Executive. I’ve had so many awesome opportunities to meet new people and help them to grow their businesses. It means the world to me when I get to hear about the success a billboard campaign has brought them!

I love all that Des Moines has to offer! The bike trails might be my favorite, but visiting a good, local restaurant is a close second.

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Let’s #BeVisionary together!

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CHAMBER BENEFIT // EXPERT EXPOSURE

How do you stand out from the competition? Show your expertise.

The chamber provides members with multiple opportunities to demonstrate their expertise. Whether that is through an expert article in FuseNews, a Feed Your Mind Seminar, or even getting involved in one of our many committees.

The chamber is here as a resource for your business growth.

COACHES CORNER // MCCRAINE ASSOCIATES Over the next few posts we’re going to talk about how to take a hard look at your current resources and get the most out of them. This can help your capital go further and increase your profit margin.

Today we’ll cover three different ways to maximize what you already have. These include: Recognize the obvious Unconventional breakthroughs Face the facts Recognize the Obvious Sometimes when you are too close to something, you can’t make out the big picture. You need to step back and really take a hard look at the resources you currently have in front of you. You are surrounded by opportunities that can boost your career and help your business become more successful.

Read more here.

READ MORE HERE

Your organization can support the fight against hunger, and Food Bank of Iowa is asking for your assistance.

Would you consider sponsoring an event or program to help Iowans facing hunger?

Together, we can raise awareness while providing food and hope for our neighborhoods.

THINGS TO DO IN DSM // CATCHDSM Catch a traveling exhibit at the Science Center of Iowa. Fireworks at a baseball game on Friday nights.

Spin on the ice at Brenton. Shop for edgy, locallymade t-shirts. And hidden gems. Catch live music.

And stretch your legs on recreational trails. It's easy to "do" in Des Moines.

Des Moines attractions are ever changing. New exhibits and IMAX movies at Science Center of Iowa. New additions like an Australian Outback at Blank Park Zoo. Stand up paddling is now available at Gray's Lake throughout the summer. And you can hit the slopes at Sleepy Hollow throughout the winter.

If you think you know all there is to do in Des Moines. You might be surprised. The landscape of things to do is always growing. Whether you're looking for family fun. Or a getaway with girlfriends. A night on the town. Or a reunion destination.

Greater Des Moines is the city to catch more.

READ MORE HERE

GDMP // APRIL PARTNERSHIP PERK April Partnership Perk – DSM Forward Playbooks DSM Forward is a compilation of playbooks devoted to helping businesses and industries prepare for next steps related to economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

These playbooks are intended to support organizations and leaders who must make the incredibly difficult decisions about reopening and ongoing operations. The expertled, data-driven playbooks have been guided by input from the DSM Forward Task Force made up of Greater Des Moines Partnership Board Members, Capital Crossroads leadership and other industry leaders. The Partnership worked with Bâton Global to guide this this process, which included extensive feedback from business, industry and community leaders and the community at-large.

Recommended practices for each business function and selected industries across DSM have been collected and curated from and developed in alignment with numerous trusted sources – leveraging international, national, state and local sources, and following federal, state and local public health official recommendations — to help guide businesses and organizations as they determine pathways toward the future in an everchanging landscape.

The industry playbooks include industry-specific recommendations to help guide businesses and organizations as they determine pathways toward the future in an everchanging landscape. The business function playbooks include takeaways that are specific to professional functions that could be present in any business, regardless of industry.

Industry playbooks can be found at https://www.dsmpartnership.com/dsmforward/ industry-playbooks.

Business function playbooks can be found at https://www.dsmpartnership.com/dsmforward/ business-function-playbooks.

LEARN MORE HERE JOIN A CHAMBER PROGRAM There are many ways to get involved in the chamber, but one of the best ways to make genuine connections is to join a chamber group. Ask us about our Non-Profit Forum, focusing on issues specific to 501c3 organizations. Or practice your business development skills by building relationships with other members through becoming a Firestarter, the volunteer ambassador arm of the chamber. And if you are a business owner looking to connect with others to bounce ideas off of, join MOXIE.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS // 2021 FuseDSM’s Board of Directors serve a three-year term with a maximum of two terms. Members of the Board focus on the development of Board policies that govern the implementation of institutional plans and purposes. The role is separate and distinct from the role of the staff, to whom are delegated the implementation of these policies.

RANDY SACKETT //

DR. RYAN ANDERSON //

CAROLYN JENISON //

LAURA GIBSON //

TOM WELCHANS //

DANIEL WILLRICH //

JEREMY MERRILL //

FERNANDO AVEIGA //

BILL RAINE //

MICHAEL BIRD //

MEGAN FLETCHER //

PAM THOMPSON //

GINA VITIRITTO //

PATRICK RUPE //

DWANA BRADLEY //

SHALLEE KEENAN //

JAMES WALFORD //

DANNY BEYER //

Yellow & Capital Cab Co, Chair

Central Iowa Center for Independent Living Secretary

Lubinus Law Firm Board Member

Spindustry Board Member

Prairie Meadows Board Member

Kemin Industries Board Member

No Coast Consulting Immediate Past

Denman & Company, CPA Treasurer

Hacha & Machete, Inc. Board Member

Siegwerk Board Member

Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company Board Member

James Walford State Farm Board Member

SpeakPR Vice Chair

Pelds Design Services 2nd Vice Chair

Raine Recruiting, LLC Board Member

Parks Area Foundation Board Member

Iowa Urban Media Board Member

Iron Horse Wealth Management, LLC Ex Officio Board Member

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