May 2022 Business Connection

MAY 2022

business CONNECTION Brought to you by THE

essenger

Q&A: Brenda Angstrom,

Webster County Treasurer

Board Member Spotlight: Shimkat Motor Company

See Inside: CITY, COUNTY & COLLEGE CONNECT

Calhoun, Franklin, Webster & Wright Counties

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May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 3 1

business CONNECTION Terry Christensen

PUBLISHER

tchristensen@messengernews.net

Bill Shea

EDITOR

bshea@messengernews.net

Rachel Rowe

SALES MANAGER

rrowe@messengernews.net

Nick Manwarren

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

nmanwarren­@messengernews.net

Jody Kayser

SALES CONSULTANT

jkayser@messengernews.net

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

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

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

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Reproduction in part or in whole without the expressed written permission of Fort Dodge BUSINESS CONNECTION is

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42 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

CONTENTS

May 2022

on the cover Badger Lake, located inside Kennedy Park, provides fishing opportunities for Webster County residents and visitors

INSIDE: 6

Economic development and quality of life

8

Q&A: Brenda Angstrom

10 Board Member Spotlight: Shimkat Motor Company 13 Shining Star: Avery Bardole 14 City Connect 16 Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance Newsletter 20 County Connect 24 United Way: Positive Communities Have Social Capital 26 College Connect 29 Open for Business 33 Financial Focus May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 3 5

Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance News

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Dennis Plautz

Communities with a higher quality of life

Giving people choices is important to quality

experience both higher employment and

of life. One of the greatest allies of economic

population growth. Our region’s elected

development

officials and leaders understand this and

community.

have invested in improving the quality of life

College is invaluable when it comes to

initiatives, such as trails, arts and culture, and

offering options for adult learning, workforce

the exciting Nature Center/riverfront project.

education and skills development. The more

Understanding that a vibrant business

well-rounded and capable a local workforce

climate also impacts quality of life is in

is, the more attractive that location is to

our wheelhouse at the Greater Fort Dodge

outside companies.

is Iowa

the

higher

Central

education Community

Growth Alliance. Having a solid business climate attracts customers, employs residents,

What qualifies as ‘quality of life initiatives’

and gives consumers more choice for buying

is constantly changing. Decades ago, the

everything from groceries to furniture to car

internet and access to it would not have been

service to haircuts.

a part of the conversation, and now the City of Fort Dodge is preparing to offer broadband as

Reliable infrastructure is a vital part of

a new utility, understanding the importance

maintaining quality of life. Infrastructure

access to internet plays when people are

covers everything from the physical assets like,

looking at relocating, and to offer the citizens

roads and bridges, to basic municipal needs

of Fort Dodge another option.

like water, electricity, gas and broadband.

Economic development and quality of life Economic progress doesn’t happen without

initiatives happen when collaboration occurs

serious

infrastructure.

between stakeholders, and Fort Dodge and

Without infrastructure, there are no new

investments

in

Webster County understand that when one of

neighborhoods, shopping centers or office

us wins, we all win.

parks. City and County leaders have understood the importance of infrastructure and have continued to make improvement where needed, and have invested when needed – due to development projects happening in the area.

6 4 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

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WWW.GREATERFORTDODGE.COM May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 7 5

Q&A

Q&A

WITH

BRENDA ANGSTROM WEBSTER COUNTY TREASURER

WHAT IMPORTANT UPDATES WOULD YOU LIKE TO REMIND WEBSTER COUNTY RESIDENTS ABOUT? Angstrom: The Tax statements are mailed by the end of August for current tax years. The first half of taxes are due September 1st and are payable until September 30th without penalty.

Penalty for September payment starts October 1st. The second half of taxes are due March 1st and payable until March 31st, with penalties beginning April 1st.

Residents can pick up a Rent Reimbursement form from the Treasurer’s office, but we do not have any part in this process.

This form is the responsibility of the renter, and any questions should be directed to The Iowa Department of Revenue. This information is listed on the form.

I would like to update all homeowners in Webster County on the current options the State of Iowa offers to reduce property taxes if you qualify. The Treasurer Association and the Department of Revenue have come together to add to the already in place Iowa Property Tax Credit Claim known as Disabled/Elderly Credit Claim (DSC).

8 6 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

Q&A

WITH THE BRENDA ANGSTROM

HOW DO YOU QUALIFY FOR THE DISABLED/ ELDERLY CREDIT CLAIM? Angstrom: You qualify if you were 65 or older, 18 or older and totally disabled by the December 31st of the year you are filing a claim. Total household income cannot exceed $24,354.00, and when filing your form, you will need to include proof of income. If you fall under being qualified as totally disabled, we will also need a form stating this with a date of diagnosis and your proof of income.

This information is new to the form – If you are 70 years of age and have a household income of less than 250% of the federal poverty level, there is a federal poverty level table to follow to check allowable reduced amount if you qualify.

DOES THIS ALSO APPLY TO MOBILE HOME OWNERS? Angstrom: Yes, and the same qualifications apply - You qualify if you were 65 or older, 18 or older and totally disabled by the December 31st of the year you are filing a claim. Total household income cannot exceed $24,354.00, and when filing your form, you will need to include proof of income. If you fall under being qualified as totally disabled, we will also need a form stating this with a date of diagnosis and your proof of income.

CAN RESIDENTS MAKE PAYMENTS ON THEIR TAXES? Angstrom: Yes, the Treasurer’s office will allow payments on your taxes, unless your property has a tax sale on it.

We will not set up a payment plan for you, that is your responsibility, but you may send a check or stop in the office to make payments. You may also do this online and the payment will automatically be taken out of your account.

Setting up a payment plan does not keep your property from going to tax sale. Anything still owed at the time of the tax sale will go to tax sale.

If you have any questions on any of the information listed, please feel free to call the Webster County Treasurer’s office at 515-573-2731. You can also visit the Webster County Treasurer’s page at iowatreasurers.org.

Something else to note for mobile home owners, for those behind on their mobile home taxes I would like to make you aware of a new stop that will be placed on the renewal of your vehicles. Because a mobile home is titled it allows all Treasurers to place a stop on the renewal of registration until the property taxes are brought current. This process is starting in several other Iowa counties.

9 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 7

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

GREATER FORT DODGE GROWTH ALLIANCE BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

SHIMKAT MOTOR COMPANY Fort Dodge’s oldest car dealership, Shimkat Motor Company, is celebrating their 75th anniversary this June. Shimkat Motor Company specializes in new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Fiat automobiles. They also offer a wide variety of Certified vehicles on the preowned side.

Brothers Edward and George Shimkat opened the dealership’s doors for the very first time on June 1, 1947. The auto brands they sold — Plymouth, DeSoto and REO Trucks — are now just memories and today’s computerized vehicles make the automobiles of the 1940s and 1950s seem quite primitive in comparison.

They operated out of a temporary space while a new building was being built at 1225 Second Ave. S. That address was the home of Shimkat Motor Company for more than five decades.

In 2004, the company moved to their current location on 5th Avenue South.

Today the company is in their third generation with owners Ed Shimkat Jr. and Bill Shimkat. They continued on the tradition

8 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 10

after their father, Ed Sr., and their uncle, Bruce, retired.

Ed Shimkat Sr. retired in 2009, while Bruce Shimkat retired in 2019.

T.J. Pingel, the dealership’s General Manager, is helping carry on the Shimkat Family values. Pingel, who has been with the dealership for almost a decade, said, “Those values have been handed down from one generation to another and can be felt in the culture of the store. We feel even the smallest of things can make a difference. So don’t be surprised to be greeted at the door with a smiling face.”

Shimkat Motor Company is also a Businesslink dealership offering special incentives and services for business owners looking for commercial vehicles. Cameron Nelson joined the Shimkat team almost five years ago to help start the commercial side of the business. In recent years, he has moved into a sales management position but continues to help out businesses with their specialized needs.

Shimkat Motor Co. invites the community to join them in celebrating their 75th anniversary in a couple different ways. First, they are giving away 75 Jeep Power Wheels through a drawing. You can enter the giveaway by clicking on the link at shimkat.com. Every Tuesday at 2pm, they randomly pick two (or more) winners live on their facebook page.

Finally, they will also be bringing back the Raminator Monster Truck! This time it will be crushing cars at Frontier Days on June 4th. To start things off, the monster truck will head down the parade route to help kick off Frontier Days with a bang. After the parade, head to the Fort Museum and ride the Raminator for only $3.

All proceeds will be going to The Fort Museum and the ICCC Foundation. The Car Crush will be at 2pm followed by rides until 3:30.

Stop out to The Fort Museum and see Shimkat Motor Company on June 4th and help them make this year’s Frontier Days the biggest one yet!

11 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 9

In Honor of our 75th anniversary, Shimkat Motor Company is bringing back ...

The Raminator!

Visit us at Frontier Days! We Will be Crushing Cars in the ICCC Parking Lot

h s u r C r a C , y a d r u t a S June 4th at 2PM

RIDE ALONG IN THE RAMINATOR! After the Frontier Days Parade until 3:30 PM

$3 per ride

SINCE

‘47

Jeep

®

www.shimkat.com 10 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 12

All proceeds split between The Fort Museum and ICCC Foundation

shiningstar

Avery Bardole

Age: 19 • Hometown: Jefferson, Iowa College & Major: Iowa Central Community College, culinary arts Future Occupation: I want to own and run my own restaurant

What art and culture classes are you currently taking at ICCC?

I am taking both concert band and choir, and I play in the jazz band as well. I also take meat and fish fabrication, international cuisine, culinary nutrition, culinary math and hospitality professionalism.

How were the arts a part of your life growing up?

The arts were big growing up. Singing in church on Sundays was the start of it, and with all of my family being involved musically and dramatically, it was just natural that I got into it as well.

What has been your favorite cuisine to prepare at Willow Ridge?

What will life be like for you in 25 years?

I hope to be a head chef at a Michelin Star restaurant, or owning my own restaurant working for a star.

You can have lunch with one person, living or dead, famous or not anywhere in the world, who do you choose and, why and where would you go?

I would want to eat a meal with Anthony Bourdain because he has traveled the world many times over in search of the best food and cooking techniques. His knowledge is vast and I hope that I can follow in his footsteps one day to learn all I can about the culinary world.

What do you most enjoy about being a student at Iowa Central I really enjoyed preparing the Moroccan Community College? menu for Willow Ridge because it showed the different things you can do with vegetables and spices, not necessarily relying on meats to make the dish work.

I think the best thing about Iowa Central is the opportunity you get to do whatever you want. I am able to cook all day learning from international chefs, play saxophone in the band, sing songs conducted by the man that composed How will, if any, music be a them, and end the day acting on stage. part of your life in 10 years?

Iowa Central allows me to do all of the I hope that I will be able to participate things that I love to do. in choirs or do stage productions, but no matter if I can participate or not, I will always be looking to go to a concert or musical.

Go to www.fineartsassociation.com for a list of upcoming events and our members…..

Over 60 events each month!

To become a member or let us know about an event contact: Shelly Bottorff, Executive Director • fdfinearts@gmail.com

May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 13 11

City Connect FORT DODGE

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE THIS SUMMER!

ADULT AND TEEN SUMMER READING PROGRAMS Beginning June 6th, adults can come in and pick up a reading log; each log returned gets entered to win a weekly prize, and all logs get entered into a grand prize drawing. Also beginning June 6th, teens can come in and sign up and get a log; the first three logs re-

Tuesday Morning Adventures will be held on Tuesdays at 10:00 for children of all ages and no registration or fee is required. Families can enjoy adventurous morning programs featuring Butterfly Fly tents, Foam Blaster experiments, Bubble making stations and magicians will all be a part of the fun in June and July.

turned get a prize, and any additional logs get entered into a grand prize drawing.

We will also be posting trivia questions each week, for both adults and teens, that are camping/outdoors themed to go with the Summer Reading theme—Read Beyond the Beaten Path. This year also sees the return of Where is Ozworld. Each week we post a picture of Ozworld somewhere in the area, and adults and teens get to guess where he is to win prizes. For teens, we have One Liners, where we post the first line of a book and teens pick the book they think (or know) it’s from.

For programs, we will be hosting a trail mix bar in June so adults and teens can come in and create their own trail mix. We will have a terrarium program in July for adults and teens to make a terrarium to take home. Teens can write their own spooky story, and library staff will read them and pick a winner. Other teen programs being planned are sun print art and rock painting.

Help build a LEGO City- Earn LEGOS when you check books to help build a city that by August will feature thousands of LEGOS. Annual Summer Games- Estimation Jars, Library Exploration Challenge, Friends Summer Art Contest and Grab n’ Go work sheets to practice Math and Literacy skills. These fun and simple activities will be available all Summer.

FORT DODGE PUBLIC LIBRARY CHILDREN’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM “Read Beyond the Beaten Path” is the theme for this year’s Children’s Summer Reading Program at the Library. All activities are fr ee.

Reading and Activity Logs for families and children 0-14 are available to build literacy skills and earn a special reward. Children may visit beginning June 6th to pick up their logs.

Summer Storytime will be held on Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 10:30 for 2-6 years old. Parents may call the Children’s Dept. beginning June 2nd to register for Storytime.

12 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 14

FORT DODGE PARKS AND RECREATION IS OFFERING PLENTY OF FUN ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS FOR KIDDOS OF ALL AGES TO PARTICIPATE IN. From outdoor camp,

soccer, tball, softball, and baseball, or heading to the pool for swimming lessons and our Princess Party we have plenty of options available for all ages! We love getting outside to play so we are kicking off our summer with Kids to Parks Day Scavenger Hunt the weekend of May 20th. Head out to some of our city and county parks to explore and find a word blocks in each park to create a phrase!

That’s not all we will be offering this summer, we have mini camps for ages 2-5 year olds. Outdoors, Soccer, and cooking are just the beginning of our list! 30–45-minute camps available for the littles starting those June Summer Days off right!

Don’t forget to head out to Rosedale Rapids for open swim beginning Memorial Day. Have kiddos that can’t get enough of the pool? Sign up for one of our sessions of swim lessons in June or July. We will be hosting a Princess Party Saturday, June 11 at 7:00pm. Swim and play with the mermaids and then join us for the showing of The Little Mermaid in Rosedale Rapids Parking Lot! We hope you can get out and play with us this summer!

THERE WILL BE PLENTY TO DO THIS SUMMER AT THE BLANDEN ART MUSEUM. Kicking the summer off, the Blanden will be marking a milestone of 90 years of serving the community. The Blanden Art Festival on June 11, 2022, is a great way to help us celebrate this significant anniversary. The art festival is free and open to the community to explore the visual arts. From 9:00 – 4:00, local and regional artists will sell their creative work, free art activities to explore, and free music on stage.

In addition to the festival, the Blanden has a whole schedule of excellent art programming, classes, workshops, and camps for youth and adult learners. To see the full schedule of creative learning opportunities, go to www. blanden.org and like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

If you want to stay in the know, become a member and receive the Blanden quarterly in the mail full of information about exhibits, classes, and more!

May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 15 13

2 0 2 1 2 7

N E WS

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance May 2022

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

STAFF Dennis Plautz CEO

dennis@greaterfortdodge.com

Kelly Halsted

Economic Development Director kelly@greaterfortdodge.com

Jill Nelson

Community Development Director jill@greaterfortdodge.com

Skyla Porter

Organizational Administrator skyla@greaterfortdodge.com

Deena McCaulley

Office Manager deena@greaterfortdodge.com

M I SFrontier SION T A T E Malways E N held T the first weekend in 2022 marks the 47th Annual DaysScelebration, “Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance is an efficient organization whose mission year, the Fortis Museum has a new director at its helm and the group behind the scenes h Communications Specialist to unify and coordinate accountable, economic and community lydia@greaterfortdodge.com development, to enhance thethe quality life with in Fortfun Dodge and the region.” working non-stop to make this year bestofyet for all ages.

Lydia Schuur

16 14 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

Alliance News

Entertainment Crowd favorites are scheduled to entertain the masses over the weekend: 

Cory Waller and Wicked Things



White Sidewalls (inside the Opera House)



Section 7



There will also be karaoke inside the Opera House on Saturday



Hollingsworth dance students will perform inside the Opera House



Polka Dot Entertainment brings together the best acts in the country to provide unforgettable experiences for audiences young and old. Their acts boast dozens of years of performance experience at the highest levels.



Hillbilly Bob



Paul Bunyan Buckskinner



Nick’s Kid Show will provide interactive entertainment for all ages



Chainsaw Artist - get ready to bid on his creations!



Inflatables courtesy of the Iowa Air National Guard

Vendors Visitors will find the selection of food vendors has grown for 2022, with some coming from out of state to offer delicious food. Options include: 

TC Mae’s



Funnel cakes



Tenderloins



Tacos



Ice cream



Cotton candy

Shimkat Motor Company and the Frontier Days organizers have partnered to bring back The Raminator, the word’s fastest monster truck!

The show begins at 2:00. Rides are available after the parade for $3, with all proceeds going back to the Fort and Iowa Central Community College foundation.

20+ retail vendors! Stop out and see everything they have to offer!

Plus, the Buckskinner Camp is bigger and better than ever!

17 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 15

Alliance News An event of this scale takes community collaboration, and the businesses and organizations of the Fort Dodge region have a long history of doing just that. Supports of the Frontier Days celebration include: 

Midwest Fence and Gate



Iowa Central Community College’s Rugby Team



Pepsi



R&J Handling Materials



Iowa Central Community College



Woodruff Construction



Electronic Engineers



Modern Sound and Engineering

Member News The Golden Day Adult Day Program was recently awarded a $1,500 grant from the GreenState Foundation.

Golden Day Adult Day’s mission is to provide safe and caring adult services that will offer meaningful programs to enhance the dignity, independence, and quality of life of older persons and individuals with disabilities.

They currently meet every other Monday from 1:00—4:00 p.m. at Citizens Central, located at 617 Central Avenue in Fort Dodge.

16 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 18

t

Alliance News

RIBBON

Congratulations to Emily and Denny Stucky, new owners of the Community Orchard!

A ribbon cutting was held to celebrate the occasion. Thank you for celebrating with the Growth Alliance Ambassadors!

19 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 17

Webster

County Connect Webster County Conservation Offers Something for Everyone Webster County Conservation boasts over 2,000 acres of public parks, wildlife management areas, trails, water trails, Off-Highway Vehicle trails, nature preserves and historic sites. They offer reservations on yurts, cabins, camping sites and the tiny homes located at the OHV park.

To access the availability calendar and make reservations, you can visit MyCountyParks.com.

stay busy in 2022. You can find all the details in the newest Webster County Conservation Program Guide,

Programs: Programming at Kennedy Park includes:

StoryWalk Trail – Located in the Children’s Forest,

this is an interactive experience with a story broken down into parts that encourages fun outdoor play and learning.

Tree Carvings – Instead of removing trees due to emerald ash borer in the Children’s Forest, Webster County

There is no shortage of programming and activities to

available online and in print.

Things to Do:

Conservation wanted to turn the stumps into art. They have been transformed into characters from The Lorax.

Challenge Course located in the woodlands at Camp WaNoki – Hikers, campers, or other groups can challenge themselves with activities like a giant seesaw, spider web maze, balance beam, and log jam. All activities encourage cooperation, communication, and teamwork.

Kayaking Beginners Class Full Moon Paddle Stand Up Paddle Boarding Free Fishing Weekend Fishing Clinic Nature Day Camps Nature Camp Kits

Camp WaNoki programming includes: Fireside Chat Series Ladies Night in the Outdoors Wilderness Skills Series Summer WILD Camp Toddler Time Outdoor Series Photographer J. Chansler. Photo provided by the Fort Dodge Convention and Visitors Bureau

20 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 18

Geocaching is a great way to mix technology and the out-

a parking area and self-guided interpretive trail. The area is

doors. This “treasure hunt” will provide the opportunities to

a preserve.

explore new areas and see how many caches you are able to find. There are over 50 caches in the Fort Dodge Area alone!

Woodman Hollow State Preserve - The preserve is a satellite

The process is simple…create an account at geocache.com

area of Dolliver Memorial State Park, located 2 miles to the

and start exploring!

south. The original intent of the area was for it to be devel-

Lizard Creek is a designated water trail, offering a 14-mile scenic paddle for experienced paddlers. With four public access points, paddlers can design their own adventure that can last a few hours or all day. Check the river gauge before you go to avoid paddling when the creek is too high or too low.

Thanks to a dedicated group of hardworking volunteers, Fort Dodge is becoming a growing mountain bike destination. The small, but mighty group of single-track enthusiasts have constructed over seven miles of “sweet”, single-track trail near the City’s Lizard Creek Access and Phinney Park. The trails include directional signage with difficulty ratings.

If hiking soft trails and scenic destinations is more your speed, check out these hiking destinations for a

oped as a state park, and in the 1930s the Civilian Conser-

good workout with incredible views.

vation Corps constructed an access road, two latrines, some trails, and the foundations for a trail bridge. The State of Iowa

Camp Wa-No-ki – the camp’s recently completed hiking

later decided to discontinue development of the area and to

trail network provides an opportunity to explore the former

leave it in its natural condition. The land was officially desig-

Campfire Camp. The trails will guide you through the Des

nated as a biological, geological, and archaeological state

Moines River Valley as you travel through woodland, prairie,

preserve on August 12, 1970.

and riparian habitats.

The Gypsum City OHV Park is located in the southeast corner Skillet Creek Indian Mounds - This is the site of a prehistor-

of Fort Dodge and boasts 800 acres with 60 miles of trails

ic Native American ceremonial ground. Five conical burial

for ATVs, side-by-sides, and off-road vehicles. Gypsum City

mounds and one linear ceremonial mound lie on the heav-

also includes a 1.5 mil motocross track, a quarter mile kids’

ily timbered limestone bluff overlooking the Des Moines and

track, and a beginner circle track. Camping is available on-

Skillet Creek Valleys. The mounds were likely built 1,500 to

site, including the addition of rentable tiny homes.

2,000 years ago by an extinct culture of Woodland Indians.

Found in the bottomland of this area is the old mining town of

In 2022, Webster County is ready to see residents and visi-

Hard Scrabble. Once a thriving town in the late 1890’s there

tors alike enjoy all the amenities and activities it has to offer.

are few remains left to indicate such a life existed. There is

21 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 19

What do your kids want to be when they grow up?

Does your child want to be featured in our

‘When I Grow Up’ publication?

A doctor, a fireman, an athlete, a pilot, or maybe even a rock star?

Send your photo to rrowe@messengernews.net Include Name, Age, and what they want to be when they grow up.

Make it fun and dress up!

Send to Rachel Rowe:

rrowe@messengernews.net

by JUNE 15 to be featured in the publication coming out on JUNE 29!

22 20 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

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Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

POSITIVE COMMUNITIES HAVE SOCIAL CAPITAL Economists and sociologists often point out

There are ten indicators that determine the

that communities that are thriving and pros-

amount of social capital within a community;

pering enjoy a high level of social capital.

trust, cooperation, mutual support, caring,

Generally speaking, social capital is defined

consensus, respect, cohesiveness, commit-

as the connections within and between peo-

ment, investment and civic participation.

ple and social networks. Sociologists view

When these ten elements are present, a com-

social capital as a value determined by the

munity vitality emerges and a synergism de-

social cohesion and connectedness among

velops that advances the community’s ability

groups and stakeholders that creates a shared

to overcome challenges and make progress

interest and induces collective action. Put in

even during difficult economic times.

simpler terms, communities with high levels of social capital have citizens that are en-

Thriving and prosperous communities usu-

gaged and willing to get involved. The com-

ally have a high degree of social capital that is

munities that lack social capital have citizens

demonstrated though an ingrained sense of

that are apathetic and only think of their own

connectedness, resourcefulness and resilien-

self-interest rather than promoting the com-

cy. These communities utilize the talents and

mon good.

resources of their local citizens to invest in

24 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 22

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

economic, social and educational opportunity all. They also have a community optimism that inspires a sense of hope and a “can-do” spirit. Their spirit and optimism produces a community energy that creates inspired leadership and engaged citizens who want to work together to advance community vitality, economic prosperity and overall well-being.

Today, all communities are facing challenges. Cultural, social and economic change is coming at us at a pace faster than ever before and communities are striving to adapt to this fast changing world. The communities that are willing step up to the challenge, provide strong leadership, work together and invest in critical social capital will be the ones that grow and prosper.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way works every day to advance this concept of social capital in Fort Dodge and Webster County. It is a crucial part of our mission and it is reflective of our efforts to develop charitable resources for important community causes, projects and programs. It is demonstrated every day through the willingness of citizens to get involved, donate and volunteer to help our community become a great place to live, work and raise our families.

For more information on how you can help, get involved and support the work of the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way, give us a call at 515-573-3171 or stop in our offices at 24 North 9th Street in downtown Fort Dodge. You can also visit our website: www.fd-foundation.org.

23 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 23 25

College Connect Spring Forward with Free Tuition at Iowa Central

As we, finally, see Spring arrive in Iowa, it’s a good time to share the possibility of a new beginning with a degree or certification from Iowa Central. Grow into a career that you will blossom in, without taking on the heaviness of debt, through the free tuition program!

Any recent Iowa high school graduate or adults over the age of 20, are eligible for one of the many Iowa Central programs that qualify for free tuition. Qualification can be accomplished in three easy steps, and Iowa Central offers a wide variety of programs. The list of programs that students can choose from include hands on programs like electrical and diesel technology to programs in the health science and technology fields.

Each area of study is connected to a field that has a high demand for employees in the Iowa Central service area. “What’s great about the free tuition program, is that once students complete their certificate, diploma or degree at Iowa Central, there are jobs available for them. It’s a win-win situation for our students and local workforce,” notes Dr. Jesse Ulrich, president of Iowa Central Community College.

To apply for the program, which is not based on income, students need to complete the FAFSA application form at www.studentaid.gov, apply to Iowa Central at www. iowacentral.edu, and then enroll in one of the programs listed here. The Iowa Central admissions office can answer any questions, and they can be reached at 515574-1005, or simple scan the QR code below!

PROGRAMS THAT IOWA CENTRAL OFFERS FOR AN ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE INCLUDE: Agriculture Business Agriculture Studies Agronomy Animal Science Associate Degree Nursing Automotive Collision Technology Automotive Technology Computer Integrated Fabrication Technology Computer Networking Technology Criminal Justice Dental Hygiene Digital Media Production Diesel Technology Electrical/Mechanical Technician Electrical Technologies Engineering & Design Technology Heating and Air Conditioning Technology Medical Assistant Medical Lab Technician Radiology Technology Securing Information Technology Web Technology

26 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 24

DIPLOMA PROGRAMS THAT CAN BE COMPLETED IN ONE YEAR INCLUDE: Automotive Collision Technology Carpentry Computer Repair Criminal Justice Electrical Apprenticeship Engineering & Design Technology Industrial Machinist Industrial Mechanic Medical Assistant Practical Nursing Web Technology Welding Technology

As Spring rolls into Summer, consider enrolling in one of Iowa Central’s free tuition programs listed here. Whether you are a recent high school graduate, unemployed, or looking to expand your skills, Iowa Central can help you. There are thousands of jobs available in Iowa and Iowa Central is a great first step to pursuing your career goals!

May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 25 27

28 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 26

FOR

BUSINESS! 5 Course Meal Served Wednesday through Friday Summer Menu 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. $30 Weds, Thurs, Fri Nights

• Engagement Sets • Diamond & Gemstone Jewelry

Reservations are not required, but always appreciated

• Seiko Watches • Religious Gifts • Baby Jewelry & Gifts • Add A Pearl

Willow Ridge Golf Course and Restaurant

• Add A Link • Speidel Watch Bands • Watch Battery Replacement

700 Central Ave, Fort Dodge, IA

(Across from Courthouse)

515-576-3751

1788 MADISON AVENUE • WILLOWRIDGEGOLF.COM • 515-576-5711 Willow Ridge Golf Course and Restaurant

1788 • Ford Dodge, IAfor• upcoming 515-576-5711 Go toMadison our websiteAve. www.willowridgegolf.com menu

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Contact your Messenger Sales Consultant to have your business here!

29 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 27

LOCAL NEWS: Delivered to your Inbox!

Step 1

Go to messengernews.net

Step 2 Scroll Down til you see this!

Step 3

Type in your Email Address Click on Daily Newsletter and/or Breaking News Hit Subscribe Enjoy!!

THE

essenger www.messengernews.net

30 28 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

t

RIBBON

Godfather’s Pizza Congratulations to Godfather’s Pizza on your ribbon cutting!

Thank you for your investment in the community!

Godfather’s Pizza is located at 3232 1st Ave South.

You can dine in, pick up, or order delivery online.

31 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 29

Business Connection Economic Pulse Mortgage Interest Rates

Building Permits 150

Source: Edward Jones

125

6%

100

5%

75

Rates average of those reported by Fort Dodge financial institutions

FORT DODGE

J

A

S

O

J

4.03 3.425

2%

3.175 3.88

O

3.15 2.5

59

S

2.90 2.625

77

N D

2.95 2.4

122

M M

65

49

90

3%

2.925 2.35

4%

50 25

Monthly in your Messenger

30 Year Fixed 15 Year Fixed

7%

O

CONNECTION

Source: Fort Dodge Planning Office

Airline Boardings Source: Fort Dodge Regional Airport

To advertise in the Business Connection Contact your Messenger Sales Consultant!

Auto & Truck Sales Cars Source: Webster County Motor Vehicle Dept.

Trucks

125 100 75 50

M

50 32

FD

52 29

J

54 31

D

46 49

10

42 33

25

A

30 32 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022

Edward Jones Financial Focus

CRYPTO: INVESTMENT OR SPECULATION? With cryptocurrencies so much in the news, you might be wondering if you should invest in them. But “invest” may not be the right word – because, in many ways, cryptocurrencies, or “crypto” for short, are more speculation than investment.

But what’s really the difference between a speculator and an investor? Probably the main factor is the differing views of time. A true investor is in it for the long term, building a portfolio that, over many years, can eventually provide the financial resources to achieve important goals, such as a comfortable retirement. But speculators want to see results, in the form of big gains, right now – and they’re often willing to take big risks to achieve these outcomes.

There’s also the difference in knowledge.

Investors know that they’re buying shares of stock in a company that manufactures products or provides services. But many speculators in cryptocurrency don’t fully comprehend what they’re buying – because crypto just isn’t that easy to understand. Cryptocurrency is a digital asset, and cryptocurrency transactions only exist as digital entries on a blockchain, with the “block” essentially being just a collection of information, or digital ledgers.

But even knowing this doesn’t necessarily provide a clear picture to many of those entering the crypto world.

In addition to time and understanding, two other elements help define cryptocurrency’s speculative nature: Volatility – Cryptocurrencies are subject to truly astonishing price swings, with big gains followed by enormous losses – sometimes within a matter of hours. What’s behind this type of volatility? Actually, several factors are involved. For one thing, the price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies depends heavily on supply and demand – and the demand can skyrocket when media outlets and crypto “celebrities” tout a particular offering. Furthermore, speculators will bet on crypto prices moving up or down, and these bets can trigger a rush on buying and selling, again leading to the rapid price movements. And many purchasers of crypto, especially young people, want to see big profits quickly, so when they lose large amounts, which is common, they often simply quit the market, contributing to the volatility.

Lack of regulation – When you invest in the traditional financial markets, your transactions are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the firms with which you invest are typically overseen by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Other agencies are also involved in regulating various investments. These regulating bodies work to ensure the basic fairness of the financial markets and to prevent and investigate fraud. But cryptocurrency exchanges are essentially unregulated, and this lack of oversight has contributed to the growth of “scam” exchanges, crypto market manipulation, excessive trading fees and other predatory practices. This “Wild West” scenario should be of concern to anyone putting money in crypto.

The cryptocurrency market is still relatively new, and it’s certainly possible that, in the future, crypto can become more of an investment and less of a speculation. In fact, Congress is actively considering ways to regulate the cryptocurrency market. But for now, caveat emptor – “let the buyer beware.”

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

33 May 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 31

HAPPY HOUR A Local

Monday thru Friday • 4PM to 7PM

Favorite

Fried Green Beans

• Award Winning Menu

(served with Hot Pepper Bacon Mayo)

Boneless Wings (served with BBQ sauce)

Loaded Fries (Steak Fries with Cheese Sauce, Taco Meat and Jalapenos)

Jalapeno Chips (served with Ranch)

$2 Domestic Beers $2.50 Bush Light Draft

• Craft Beer on tap • Fully Stocked Bar • Catering Available • Can accommodate large groups • Free on-site parking

Located Inside The Best Western Starlite Village Inn & Suites 515-573-2836 1518 3rd Ave. NW Fort Dodge, Iowa

www.bufordsfortdodge.com 34 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • May 2022 32

Click. Snap.

Deposit.

Try Mobile Deposit. It’s just one of the benefits of Mobile Banking.

You can also: • View accounts • Make transfers and pay bills • View location hours and ATMs • Manage your debit card • Use calculators

Deposit 24/7 from anywhere

Fort Dodge • 1608 1st Ave • 515-576-5111 unitedbk.bank

Member FDIC

Mortgage Professionals Meet our

PURCHASE • REFINANCE • CONSTRUCTION With low rates and flexible terms, it may surprise you just how affordable purchasing a home can be.

Call our mortgage professionals to discuss the options.

Sue Sergeant 515-955-0620

Ted Beran 515-955-0619

SueSergeant@GreenState.org

TedBeran@GreenState.org

www.GreenState.org/SueSergeant NMLS# 879514

www.GreenState.org/TedBeran NMLS# 404478

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