FuseNews_May 2021_FuseDSM Your Chamber of Commerce Online Publication

YOUR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN PERSON EVENTS ARE BACK | MAY 2021

GET READY TO GOLF JUNE 11, 2021

THINGS TO DO IN AROUND DES MOINES

GET TO KNOW OUR MEMBERS

FuseDSM's Annual Golf Tournament Registration Opens

Discover places to explore, attractions

Non-Profit, Retail, Restaurant and Ambassador Spotlights

UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday May 13, 2021

Monthly Luncheon- Mental Health Awareness Month Living & Thriving with Mental Illness

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Morning Fuel Networking - IN PERSON at Copycat Prints

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8:30 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Non-Profit Forum - Power, Privilege, Leadership, & Moore

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Thursday May 20, 2021

RIBBON CUTTING - Trixies Salon & Spa

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT

Tuesday May 18, 2021 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Wednesday May 19, 2021

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CDT

Wednesday May 26, 2021

MOXIE presented by East Village Spa

8:15 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Thursday May 27, 2021 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT

Feed Your Mind (IN PERSON) - Text Marketing Reaching People in their Pockets

Thursday May 27, 2021

Fusing The Community Together: Kelly's Little Nipper

4:15 PM - 6:00 PM CDT

Thursday May 27, 2021

May Firestarter Meeting

3:30 PM - 4:15 PM CDT

Thursday May 27, 2021

Fusing The Community Together: Kelly's Little Nipper

4:15 PM - 6:00 PM CDT

Thursday May 27, 2021 4:15 PM - 6:00 PM CDT

Fusing The Community Together: Kelly's Little Nipper

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UPCOMING EVENTS Friday Jun 4, 2021

RIBBON CUTTING - Pennie Carroll & Associates

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT

Tuesday Jun 8, 2021

Morning Fuel - Virtual

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Wednesday Jun 9, 2021

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RIBBON CUTTING - Stowe Heights Challenge Course | Community Youth Concepts

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11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT

Monthly Luncheon- Greater Des Moines is 100% Awesome!

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Friday Jun 11, 2021

2021 FuseDSM Annual Fore! Golf Tournament

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CDT

Thursday Jun 10, 2021

8:30 AM - 2:00 PM CDT

Tuesday Jun 22, 2021 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Morning Fuel Networking - IN PERSON at Runway Studios by Curated Growth

Wednesday Jun 23, 2021

MOXIE presented by East Village Spa

8:15 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Thursday Jun 24, 2021

June Firestarter Meeting

3:30 AM - 4:15 PM CDT

Tuesday Jun 29, 2021 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM CDT

Chamber.edu

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

MAY 2021

CONTENTS MEMBER NEWS //

STRAUB MARKETING 50 YEARS INSTAGRAM TIPS THINGS TO DO IN DES MOINES BIKE & BEER TOUR MEDIACOM RECOGNIZED RETAIL SPOTLIGHT RESTARAUNT SPOTLIGHT APRIL MARKETING TIP

ON THE COVER //

FORE GOLF TOURNAMENT EXPERIENCE DSM WITH ERIN HUIATT BIKE & BEER TOUR BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT FIRESTARTER SPOTLIGHT

IN THE COMMUNITY //

IN THE CHAMBER //

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY RETAIL SPOTLIGHT RESTARAUNT SPOTLIGHT

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

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Restaurant Spotlight: Coa Cantina

p.20-21

Event Spotlights: FuseDSM Award Celebration

MAY 2021

FROM THE CEO The chamber is so excited with the energy that has come from our first few in person events this year. Celebrations of our community through ribbon cuttings, Firestarter Meetings, Morning Fuel in person, and of course our Award Celebration pods have inspired even more excitement for this coming season.

We will soon have our first in-person monthly luncheon, and then our much anticipated annual golf tournament, FORE! Whether you're a golfer, a sponsor, volunteer, or just want to find a way to get involved in our community, FuseDSM has something for you.

We look forward to seeing you very soon.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

p.2-3

Don't Miss: Upcoming Chamber Events

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Get to Know Members: Non-Profit Spotlight

p.22

Get to Know Members: Restaurant Spotlight

Trish Flaherty-Barnes

TRISH FLAHERTY-BARNES CEO, President of FuseDSM, Your Chamber of Commerce

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Get to Know Members: Retail Spotlight

MAY 2021

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT

DANIEL ZINNEL Power, Privilege, Leadership & More: Privilege is about access and those who have the power to provide that access within the organization. Most of the people who have access to leadership development often reflect privilege in their personal identity and sometimes harbor it for their own benefit. Being a leader is about what you do with that privilege in the role you hold.

In this session, participants will reflect on their own experiences and identities as a starting point. Participants will then learn about best practices and tools related to antiracism and diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and how to guide your non-profit to identify and leverage their privilege and power for good.

About Daniel Daniel Zinnel, EdD - Founder and President, Growth & Joy: Dr. Daniel Zinnel is a thought leader, facilitator, speaker, and learner. In 2020, he launched Growth and Joy, LLC to help individuals, businesses, and organizations develop proactive, practical, and purposeful leaders. He has trained and spoken to over twenty thousand individuals on a variety of topics including leadership, power and privilege, LGBTQ inclusion, and building your personal brand. Daniel was previously on faculty as an adjunct at Des Moines University and Iowa Central Community College. Zinnel has over 10 years of nonprofit administration and leadership including currently serving as the CEO of Proteus, Inc. and previously as the Executive Director of One Iowa. Daniel serves as Tri-Chair of the Social Capital within Capital Crossroads and is on a variety of other community boards and advisory councils. He has a Doctorate of Education in Leadership from Creighton University, M.A in Health Studies from the University of Alabama, B.A. in Liberal Arts with Psychology and Sociology Minors from Grand View University, and A.A. from Iowa Central Community College. You can learn more about Growth & Joy at https://growthandjoy.com.

Learn More From Daniel:

May Non-Profit Forum Sponsored by:

Wednesday May 19, 2021

8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

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8:30-9:00 – Introductions/Share a Win 9:00-10:00 – Presentation

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER

MAY 2021

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Inspire Me Mr. V

International Paper Recycling

IMPROV: NOT JUST FOR ACTORS ANYMORE

HKR Communications & Marketing REACH THE AUDIENCES YOU SEEK

Taylored Benefits Inc

RECYCLING AND DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION CENTER

AN IOWA EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PROVIDER

Invest DSM

TeeHee's Comedy Club INDEPENDENT COMEDY CLUB AND EVENT SPACE

Mid-American Energy SAFELY MEETING THE ENERGY NEEDS OF MORE THAN 1.6 MILLION CUSTOMERS

Green State Credit Union

IOWA’S LARGEST CREDIT NONPROFIT SPECIALIZING UNION AND ONE OF THE TOP IN NEIGHBORHOOD FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS REVITALIZATION

Ruby B's Kitchen

Gray Financial Solutions

LOVE IS WHAT WE PUT INTO OUR FOOD AT RUBY B'S KITCHEN.

ACCOUNTING FIRM. WE PREPARE INCOME TAX RETURNS & BOOKEEPING.

Pro Circular

Fort Des Moines Museum and Education Center MANAGE RISK, IMPROVE SECURITY READINESS, MEET REGULATORY COMMITMENTS,

Love Local BUILD A COMMUNITY OF LOYAL CUSTOMERS THAT LOVE YOUR BRAND

PROMOTE THE SACRIFICE OF THE BLACK OFFICERS OF WORLD WAR I

READERS CORNER

MAY 2021

RELEASE THE STIGMA MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH Mental Health Awareness Month (also referred to as

The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to

"Mental Health Month") has been observed in May in

raise awareness and educate the public about: mental

the United States since 1949. The month is observed

illnesses, such as the 18.1% of Americans who suffer

with media, local events, and film screenings.

from depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder;[9] the realities of living with these conditions; and

Mental Health Awareness Month began in the United

strategies for attaining mental health and wellness. It

States in 1949 and was started by the Mental Health

also aims to draw attention to suicide, which can be

America (MHA) organization (then known as the

precipitated by some mental illnesses. Additionally,

National Association for Mental Health). Each year in

Mental Health Awareness Month strives to reduce the

mid-March Mental Health America releases a toolkit of

stigma (negative attitudes and misconceptions) that

materials to guide preparation for outreach activities

surrounds mental illnesses. The month came about by

during Mental Health Awareness Month. During the

presidential proclamation.

month of May, MHA, its affiliates, and other organizations interested in mental health conduct a number of activities which are based on a different theme each year.

LEARN MORE BY REQUESTING A READING LIST FROM VISIT

MAY 2021

MEDIACOM COMMUNICATIONS RECOGNIZED AS A US BEST MANAGED COMPANY Mediacom Communications Corporation is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2021 US Best Managed Company.

Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies and the achievements of their management teams.

The 2021 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people and fostering a dynamic, resilient culture, as well as strong financials, all while facing the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite major challenges and immense pressure, they continued to lead with purpose and the vision to make significant contributions to their industries, communities, workforces and the economy.

CONGRATULATIONS

“For over a quarter of a century, the dedicated men and women of Mediacom have worked tirelessly to ensure the smaller markets we serve receive the same or better telecommunications services as America’s largest cities,” said Rocco B. Commisso, Mediacom’s founder, Chairman and CEO. “During this past year, the team at Mediacom has gone above and beyond for our communities by rapidly connecting thousands of homes with lowcost internet services, supporting local food banks and preparing our advanced broadband network to meet the demands of more people than ever before working and studying from home. To be recognized as a 2021 US Best Managed Company in the midst of the economic and operating challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic is a testament to our employees’ steadfast commitment to the core tenets of our business, and I thank them for making this honor possible.”

Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 30 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

COPYCAT PRINTS COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY As highschool students start to celebrate the 2021 graduation season, Copycat Prints announces a further commitment to the community.

For every graduation invite, yard sign, or poster purchased to celebrate this year’s seniors, 10% of the proceeds will be donated to the school of their choice when this promotion is mentioned at checkout, and agree to display “printed locally at Copycatdm.com”.

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Owner Dennis Goering, married to a school teacher himself, said “Our community, and especially those serving our children deserve as much support as they can get through what has been a pivotal time in history.

School districts were faced with hard decisions, teachers forced to get creative, and students proved adaptability time and time again throughout this past year. Copycat Prints is proud to support our Central Iowa schools with a small donation for every purchase made for graduation celebrations until June 30th, 2021.”

COMMUNITY MARKETING

MAY 2021

3 WAYS TO MAKE INSTAGRAM WORK FOR LOCAL BUSINESS 1.Engage > Everything If you use Instagram like a billboard, consumers will tune you out. The more you spend time engaging in comments, in DMs, or by creating content that starts or continues a conversation in Stories, the more people will enjoy seeing your content in their feed. Tell someone why you appreciate them, write a meaningful comment on someone’s post that resonated with you, congratulate someone on their recent award. Engagement isn’t hard and it leaves a lasting impression when done with intention.

2.Stop Focusing on Follower Counts & Likes Follower counts and likes are vanity metrics! They don’t mean anything when it comes to how successful you can be on Instagram, especially if you do #1… engage! If you’re looking at metrics that move the needle for your company it’s likely shares, saves, and DM messages. If I have 2000 followers who only like my pictures, what does that do for my business. If I have 200 followers and 25 always share my posts, I’m now getting introduced to their networks of thousands of people and have content people feel connected with enough to hit that share button (what an honor!). If I have 1500 people save my posts, they find it valuable enough to refer to later. That says way more than likes and comments and thankfully Instagram tracks it for you.

3.Integrate yourself People do business with people…it’s why you joined Fuse, right? Leverage the best asset you have in your company: you! Show us behind the scenes of your day, who you work with, what your go-to morning routine is, your dogs, your new shirt. It sounds wildly superficial, but the small things are the ways we connect with people. “Oh I also have two cats!” is a me too feeling that draws the right people into your ecosystem.

Want to learn more on how to build a community of loyal customers who love your brand? Watch our free training and learn how hundreds of local business owners are using the Local Business Growth Method to simplify their marketing & amplify their impact. https://www.love-local.co/training

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NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

ANAWIM HOUSING DEVELOPING STABLE HOMES AND STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES THROUGH SAFE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR FAMILIES Since 1987, Anawim Housing has been building homes, hope and community. From

A well-established leader in affordable housing development and management, Anawim Housing is sought out by public entities, community organizations, faith communities and for-profit & non-profit owners.

ANAWIM EXPERTISE INCLUDES:

its start as a vision of Sister Stella Neill,

- Real estate development

Anawim Housing has become a local leader

- Family support services

in affordable housing - working tirelessly to

- Comprehensive property management

end homelessness and ensure the most

services

vulnerable in our community have a safe

- Community engagement and expertise

place to call home.

- Strong reputation as a trusted partner - Entrepreneurial approach to our social

Today, Anawim Housing is the largest

mission

provider of Permanent Supportive Housing in the state of Iowa. Managing over 220 housing units, Anawim provides stable housing to 386 individuals who have experienced homelessness and live with a mental illness, substance use disorder, physical disability, diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, or are fleeing domestic violence.

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MARKETING COLUMN

MAY 2021

MAKE MARKETING HUMAN AGAIN CREATIVE DSM | DIGITAL & SOCIAL MARKETING

Anyone who has worked with Creative DSM knows that we stress the importance of community marketing. Involvement in your chamber of commerce is a great first step. But there are so many ways to expand past that.

May's Marketing Tip: Find Shouldering Industries VISIT

So what are shoulder industries you wonder? Shouldering industries are other local companies that have a shared interest with your core mission.

Shouldering industries share your same ideal customer, but should not be a competitor. Examples are a complimentary product, an accessory to the ultimate goal, or a service that is part of your customer's journey.

By partnering with shouldering industries, you are making marketing human again. You are building relationships that can refer business, but even better, you are creating connections that your clients care about. Give those connections away freely and often. Find and network and support it.

Want some free marketing advice? We're always down for a discovery call: creativedsm.as.me/marketing-discovery-call

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

EXPERIENCE DSM SMALL BUSINESSES

BY ERIN HUIATT OF DES MOINES PARENT May is Small Business Month and while we should always be celebrating and supporting small businesses I invite you to make it a priority in the month of May. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business. That means more than half of Americans rely on your business and support to thrive and make a living.

This may sound like a lot of pressure, but growing up in the Des Moines area I have witnessed our communities come together and rally for each other time and time again. Just recently I had a phone call with a business owner in the Twin Cities area. She enjoys visiting Des Moines with her family several times a year and every time they visit they are extremely impressed by the community's love and support for small businesses. If someone traveling through our beautiful city notices this, then we are doing something right.

The Des Moines Metro area is filled with amazing businesses selling, offering services, and making a huge impact within our community. I am excited to share 10 fun ways you can continue to show your support for small businesses during the month of May. Art Terrarium in Downtown Des Moines.

Artfull located in Valley West Mall

When you walk into their shop you feel like you are walking into an oasis. Purchase a plant and pot it yourself in their Potting Bar. This is a fun outing for kids too! (106 11th St, Des Moines)

Grab the kids or your best friend and get crafty at Artfull located in Valley West Mall. They have everything to offer from pre-made kits, classes, and more. (1551 Valley West Dr, Ste 162, West Des Moines)

Snookie’s Malt Shop in Beaverdale

Smashpark in West Des Moines

Summer is just around the corner. Who doesn’t love an ice cold sweet treat? Grab your favorite ice cream treat at Snookie’s Malt Shop in the Beaverdale area. (1810 Beaver Ave, Des Moines)

Enjoy fun cocktails, delicious eats, and fun games at Iowa’s largest patio Smashpark Des Moines. One of our places to play as a family on a sunny day! (6625 Coachlight Dr, West Des Moines)

Candle Bar DSM in Valley Junction

Storyhouse Bookpub

Create a candle at the Candle Bar DSM in Valley Junction. This is a unique, hands-on experience that you can keep for yourself or a gift for someone you love. (130 5th Street, West Des Moines)

Trixie’s Salon & Spa Uptown If you are looking for some self care head to Trixie’s Salon & Spa Uptown for a facial and a new hairstyle. Do not leave without grabbing a cute gift from their small boutique shop. (4118 University Ave, Des Moines)

Sacred Health in Des Moines Take time to relax and take one of many classes offered at Sacred Health located in the heart of Des Moines. (4123 University Avenue, Des Moines)

Support a local independent bookstore and catch a story time with Storyhouse Bookpub. Storyhouse Bookpub does not have a set location, but you will find her traveling around doing fun events around Des Moines. Keep tabs on events and more at https://storyhousebookpub.com/

Kinship Brewing Our furry friends can support small businesses too, right? Kinship Brewing not only offers great brews and tasty pizzas, but they also offer a dog park in Waukee. (255 NE Sunrise Dr, Waukee)

Blank Park Zoo The Blank Park Zoo is a great place all year round but right now they are offering Wild Night Lights a visually stunning light display. You will want to visit soon because it ends May 31st. (7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines)

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

IOWA STATE BANK 80 YEARS LOCAL This year marks the 80th anniversary for Iowa State Bank. Our story began in 1941, when local business leader George O’Dea saw a need for a community bank to serve the residents of Des Moines. With five employees and one office, Iowa State Bank opened its doors and has been serving the community ever since.

O’Dea’s vision continues today under the leadership of the Burgeson Family. Owner and Chairman of the Board, John Burgeson, passed away last year and we honor John as a great leader of our bank and a visionary in our community. John’s daughter, Lauren Burgeson, is currently Executive Vice President and serves on the Board of Directors for the bank. John left a legacy that will continue to guide the bank into the future and the Burgeson Family remains committed to keeping the bank locally owned and serving our community.

Iowa State Bank has grown and prospered due to our dedication to customer service and community. For over 25 years, the bank has achieved the highest rating a bank can earn from the FDIC for Community Reinvestment. Iowa State Bank is committed to the needs of this community and has invested millions of dollars back into Central Iowa.

Currently, Iowa State Bank has five metro banking locations, along with Investment and Trust Departments providing strong wealth management services. 80 years is a milestone Iowa State Bank is proud to achieve and celebrate with our community. Although a lot has changed since we opened our doors in 1941, some things never will: the bank’s commitment to this community and giving our customers the best possible banking experience.

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CONGRATULATIONS

MAY 2021

HELP US CELEBRATE INTRODUCING THE AWARD WINNERS The virtual award celebration went off

Presented by:

Awards Sponsored By:

CHAR AUSTIN REALTOR

MAY 2021

CONGRATULATIONS

CANTINA SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

COA CANTINA A TEQUILLA BAR LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN DES MOINES At FuseDSM, your chamber of commerce, getting to know members is perhaps the best part of being a part of the chamber. That's why we're ecstatic to share a new favorite spot downtown.

MARGARITAS MIXED TO PERFECTION If you missed our margarita mixing class earlier this year, that's ok, we have a youtube video! Follow along as the pro bartender, and co-owner shares her expertise.

A PATIO READY FOR YOU Spring has sprung, and drinks are pouring at Coa Cantina. Stop by to enjoy the drinks, the beautiful decor, and NOW; the patio!

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RETAIL SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

FLEET FEET

Whether you walk, run, or simply need a good fitting pair of shoes, the educators at Fleet Feet Des Moines will work with you to

HELPING DES MOINES STAY ACTIVE

evaluate your foot’s gait and natural biomechanics to help you select a shoe that

Fleet Feet Des Moines is a welcoming hub for runners and walkers in Des Moines. We provide

fun,

encouragement

fitness, through

education

and

service

and

products that enable people to enjoy active lifestyles. At Fleet Feet Des Moines, you will find an environment where all ability levels receive unparalleled service and support.

Fleet Feets' Fitlosophy is to help you find

offers the best fit and function for you.

Fleet Feet Des Moines is committed to enhancing and growing our local running and walking communities, and offering educational

resources

and

training

opportunities to assist you in achieving your fitness goals. Each store is locally owned and operated.

the right ''FIT'' in every facet of your active lifestyle.

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GET READY TO GOLF JUNE 11, 2021 FuseDSM's Annual Golf Tournament

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

GOLF WITH FUSEDSM FRIDAY JUN 11, 2021 8:30AM - 2:00PM CDT

REGISTER

sponsored by:

7:15AM- 8:20AM - Registration 8:30AM - Shotgun Start 12:30PM - Lunch / Awards

$125 / Individual (Members) and $140 / Non-Members $425 / Foursome (Members) and $475 (Non-Members) Registration includes breakfast treats, lunch by Ruby B's Kitchen, 2 beer/drink tickets, and a swag bag filled with treats from member businesses!

DID YOU KNOW PROCEEDS FROM FORE HELP FUND SCHOLARSHIPS? While we enjoy hosting these wonderful and fun events for our members and the community, they do have a purpose in raising funds to fund those scholarships. When you register or sponsor our annual golf event, you are supporting students and the Fuse Philanthropy program. Our goal is to increase and provide additional scholarships for our youth, so we thank you for your participation in the annual golf tournament!

MAY 2021

HY-VEE DIETICIAN

KEEP A HEALTHY ROUTINE PACK AND PLAN YOUR LUNCH “Packing” or planning your own lunch may seem like more work at times, but it can end up saving you time and money. It can also be a healthier option than running through the drive-thru or grabbing random items in the kitchen during your workday.

With a little planning, you can have delicious and healthy lunches put together in no time, even if you are working from home. If you continue the routine of packing or planning a lunch, it will help you make time to eat lunch. The following are some suggestions for creating a variety of lunches so you don’t have to eat the same thing day after day.

Sandwich Switch-Up

Choose a bread option, preferably whole-grain, such as pita, English muffin, tortilla, bagel or crackers. Then pick your filling; good choices include chicken salad, tuna salad, peanut butter and banana, veggies and fresh mozzarella, or sliced deli meat and cheese. You can also get creative with spreads; instead of mayonnaise try avocado, hummus, pesto or chutney.

Go Green

Salads are a great choice for lunch. Packing your salad in a jar lets you put all of the ingredients in one container and it’s easy to grab and go.

Start with a glass jar or plastic container. Put your favorite dressing on the bottom; this keeps the delicate greens from getting too soggy. For the next layer, add a protein like chicken, tuna, edamame or nuts. Add hardy vegetables and/or fruits at this time, such as celery, apples or pears. The third layer may include cheese, dried cherries or seeds.

The fourth layer may include fruits such as berries, mandarin oranges or grapes. Finally, add your salad greens.

Lovely Leftovers

Leftovers from the previous night’s dinner also make a great lunch. If you plan ahead, you can make extra servings of a dish so you have enough left over for lunch the next day. For example, if you’re baking chicken, cook an extra chicken breast or two and use the extras to make a chicken salad sandwich or to toss in a salad.

If you’re eating out, ask for a to-go box when they bring out your entrée. Put half the meal in the box before you start eating. You’ll save some calories at dinner and will already have your lunch packed for the next day.

Soup’s On

Soup is a great option, especially on chilly days. If you’re having canned soup, watch the sodium. You can cut down the sodium on canned soup by adding extra water and frozen or no-salt-added canned vegetables. Better yet? Make your own. Include lots of veggies and a protein source, such as meat, beans or edamame.

On the Side

Stock up on sides that are easy to throw in your lunch bag when you’re in a hurry. Some choices include applesauce cups, fresh fruit, raw veggies, string cheese, yogurt and hard-boiled eggs. For an occasional sweet treat, try graham crackers, trail mix or a granola bar.

Keep the Bag

My favorite thing about packing my lunch is that it gives me an excuse to buy a fun lunch bag. If you struggle with remembering to take a lunch break, pack your lunch in an insulated bag, put a bottle of frozen water in the bag to keep your lunch cold until it’s time to eat and take it with you to your at-home or at-work office.

Need more inspiration? Check out the recipe section on hy-vee.com for lots of lunch-friendly recipes here: https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes?q=lunch&sortBy=relevance The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.

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MAY 2021

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MEET GINA VITIRITTO INTRODUCE YOURSELF Gina Vitiritto is the Assistant Director of Human Resources at Prairie Meadows and have been with the company since 1989. She is the newest member of the FuseDSM Board of Directors in 2021.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT PRAIRIE MEADOWS Prairie Meadows has played an important role in central Iowa since we opened in 1989. That’s because we are a nonprofit, locally-managed business, one of only two nonprofit casinos in the nation. We began with the goal of lessening the burden of government by promoting economic development, jobs, agriculture, and tourism in the state of Iowa.

Outstanding entertainment offerings have made Prairie Meadows the No. 1 entertainment destination in Iowa.

Prairie Meadows offers nonstop casino action, live and simulcast horse racing, sports wagering, big-name entertainment, local and regional musical acts, and full-service dining amenities. Additionally, Prairie Meadows Hotel provides our guests with a convenient, comfortable place to stay. And our Events Center facilities are ideal for hosting large community gatherings, weddings, business meetings, trade shows, and celebrations with friends and family.

FIRESTARTER SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

MEET TYLER MILLER FIRESTARTER CO-CHAIR

TELL US ABOUT BEING A FIRESTARTER My favorite part about being a Firestarter is making connections. We welcome new members and give them some helpful tips on member

TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT WEST BANK

benefits. We introduce them to other members

I am a good example of a person who didn't think

and make sure they feel part of the organization.

that they'd be working in banking their whole life.

FuseDSM is an excellent place to find referral

I worked for West Bank as a teller while I was a

sources and collaborate with other members. I

student at the University of Iowa and was able to

also enjoy reaching out to renewing members to

transfer to a job at the West Bank offices in West

thank them for their participation and

Des Moines after I graduated. Because West

contributions to FuseDSM.

Bank promotes from within, I have been able to grow and learn the business from the entry level

TELLL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE EVENT

up. I recently became a branch manager, so that

My favorite FuseDSM event is Change Your

is another step in my career. I love working with

Circle Speed Networking. In a very short time,

people from all walks of life and helping them find

you can meet a lot of new people! Everyone

solutions to their financial pain points. I like that

there is ready to connect and help each other. It’s

West Bank is a community bank that encourages

a warm, welcoming and supportive environment.

employees to become involved with non-profits

That’s why I would recommend it to others.

of their choice in our community.

CONNECT

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

MAY 2021

MEMBERSHIP PERKS LOOKING FOR A WAY TO GET INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY?

At FuseDSM, your chamber of commerce, connections come first. But beyond the professional connections to resources and other businesses, we encourage our members to be involved in the community. We achieve this through our events, encouraging everyone to shop local, and providing recommendations to and for all of our members.

COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS In addition, each year, we donate 3 local scholarships to the high schools in our footprint; Lincoln, North and East High School. You can help donate to these funds ($1-$1000) using our easy paypal button. Set it recurring, celebrate a monument, or just because.

DONATE

THINGS TO DO IN DES MOINES

MAY 2021

A PINT SIZE TOUR

Exile Brewing Company (4) Des Moines’

A CATCH DSM BIKING TOUR

flavorful and easy-drinking German-style

largest craftbrewing operation features ales and lagers savored in Exile’s American Beer Hall.

Downtown Des Moines is fortunate to have four craft breweries and two nationally

Confluence

recognized beer bars within a 6.2-mile loop.

Downtown’s newest brewery, Confluence is

Each establishment offers 6-ounce or half-pint

the dream of two award-winning home

pours. Bicycle parking available at each stop.

brewers, John Martin and Ken Broadhead,

Brewing

Company

(5)

who took their hobby to the next level.

Court Avenue Brewing Company (1) Des Moines’ first brew pub (1996) serves nine or

El Bait Shop (6) El Bait boasts more than 120

more house and premium brews.

U.S. craft beers on draft with another 150 bottled choices, earning Draft magazine’s

Royal Mile (2) Park your bike and stroll into

title of “The Most American Craft on Draft

this Britishstyle pub, which has earned Draft

in the U.S.”

magazine’s recognition among the “100 Best Beer Bars in America.”

Route Scout Scott Dennis, founding member of the Iowa Brewers Union and nationally

Raccoon River Brewing Company (3) A must-

certified

stop for hop heads; go directly for Bandit IPA, a

iowabrewersunion.com

beer

and

mead

local favorite.

MAP

judge

MAY 2021

GREATER DES MOINES PARTNERSHIP

PUBLIC POLICY RESOURCES MEMBERSHIP PERKS WITH GREATER DES MOINES PARTNERSHIP

The Partnership's Public Policy team engages with local, state and federal officials to create public policy that generates economic growth, business prosperity and talent development in Greater Des Moines (DSM). The Partnership provides opportunities for its Members to connect, build relationships and continue dialogue with their elected officials. At the start of each legislative session, The Partnership hosts a pre-session Legislative Reception and Day on the Hill. Each year The Partnership leads a delegation of nearly 200 business, civic, community VISIT and local elected leaders to Washington, D.C., dubbed DMDC, to advocate with one voice — one of the largest chamber of commerce fly-ins in the nation.

DID YOU KNOW THIS INCLUDES: Access to the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Policy Team Andrea Woodard, Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Public Policy (awoodard@DSMpartnership.com) and Ryan Moon, Public Policy Manager (rmoon@DSMpartnership.com) to voice issues, ask questions and take advantage of other public policy resources.

Check out more info you want to add here: DSMpartnership.com/publicpolicy.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

MAY 2021

JUNE MONTHLY LUNCHEON GREATER DES MOINES IS 100% AWESOME Greater Des Moines is 100% open and 100% awesome. Join Greg Edwards, the President & CEO of Catch Des Moines, to learn about some of the region's biggest events happening in Greater Des Moines this summer and how we are welcoming events safely and responsibly. 2021 is set to be a strong year. You won't want to miss this session on how Des Moines continues to land some of the most prestigious events, Dew Tour, IRONMAN, and more!

Greg Edwards, President/CEO of Catch Des Moines Greg Edwards has over 35 years of hospitality experience. He began as President & CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau (Catch Des Moines) in 2000, previously leading convention & visitors bureaus in Illinois and Kansas. Greg has championed many accomplishments while in Des Moines. He reorganized the Des Moines Area Sports Commission and his team has tripled convention and event bookings since 2000.

Learn More About the Luncheon Sponsored by:

Thursday Jun 10, 2021

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT

REGISTER

11:30 -11:55am - Networking 11:55 -1:00pm - Program/Lunch

MAY 2021

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OUR FUEL TRUST INVESTORS

INFLUENCE INVESTORS

EMERGE INVESTORS