Business Connection • July 2022

JULY 2022

business CONNECTION Brought to you by THE

essenger

Q&A: Fort Dodge Fiber Groundbreaking

Board Member Spotlight: Fort Dodge Fiber

See Inside: CITY, COUNTY & COLLEGE CONNECT

ABSTRACTING PROGRESS

FOUR Counties of Service of Calhoun County

of Webster County

of Wright County

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Where You Belong.

Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way

CENTRAL FINANCIAL GROUP

Investing in our community to enhance quality of life and to build stronger youth - stronger families – and a stronger community

515-955-0607 • 301 South 25th St • Fort Dodge We support our Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance!

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July 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

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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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42 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

CONTENTS

July 2022

on the cover Fort Dodge Fiber Groundbreaking

INSIDE: 6

The Most Essential Ingredient In Economic Growth

8

Q&A: Jeremy Pearson: Director, Fort Dodge Fiber

10 Artist Spotlight: Mark Gales 11 Shining Star: Lea Chua Chiaco 12 Board Member Spotlight: Fort Dodge Fiber 14 City Connect 16 Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance Newsletter 20 County Connect 24 United Way: Building a Safe Community 26 College Connect 29 Open for Business 33 Financial Focus July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 3 5

Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance News

THE MOST ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT IN ECONOMIC GROWTH We spend great amounts of time evaluating

You don’t have to be an elected leader. You just

and developing plans and projects centered

have to truly care and decide to contribute by

around community infrastructure and other

being involved and work with others toward

local resources, but too often we ignore the

common goals. All credit belongs to those

most important ingredient to economic

local people who choose to put their time

growth. The most important and essential

and effort towards improving their and their

ingredient is really not measurable and can

neighbor’s community. That is what truly

change from time to time. That ingredient so

separates successful from less successful

necessary is community wide LEADERSHIP.

communities in my belief. Opportunities like this are part of the core mission of The Greater

Dennis Plautz

Leadership takes a willingness to get and stay

Fort Dodge Growth Alliance. Opportunities

informed and then be willing to step up and

are here for those of you that are willing to

take risks and step up toward decisions and

exercise leadership and are willing to commit

positions for the greater good. It is very easy

to making our area a better place to live and

to sit back and be uninformed and yet take

work. The more people that are willing to

positions on all kind of issues, but that is not

step up will clearly differentiate our future

true leadership. It’s easy to be critical but it

successes.

is harder to actually participate and actually have some setbacks but yet keep going for

It is that leadership growth in Webster County

the greater good of all citizens. Successful

that has been the driver in the last decade

people will always have some failure because

of economic and community development

without it there will never be the opportunity

success. THANK YOU for the past decade

for success. True leadership is having the

and I hope even more of you will step and

determination to keep participating when

make the next decade even better than the

others may tell it is a lost cause or it’s not

last decade.

worth it.

6 4 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

PROMOTIONAL TOOLS My Business, My Alliance Ad Get a $300 ad in The Messenger for a member rate of $35

Enewsletter Weekly electronic newsletter for members to submit business updates, information about events or community involvement

Contact us at 515.955.5500 or visit our website for more information!

Mailing List Extend your marketing reach with access to the mailing information for our members

Business Connection Publication An opportunity for a business spotlight or feature in the Messenger's monthly Business Connection publication

Member News Distribution Submit your business news to us and have it featured on our website, Enews and/or social media

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

Q&A

Q&A

JEREMY PEARSON

WITH DIRECTOR, FORT DODGE FIBER

WHEN WILL I BE ABLE TO HOOK UP TO FORT DODGE FIBER? Pearson: Construction is set to begin later this month. Keep an eye out as you’ll soon be seeing construction crews working in the community.

They will begin installing underground conduit, fiber lines, and other necessary facilities throughout the community.

We will make sure to update Fort Dodge residents when construction begins so that everyone is aware as to whether or not they will have crews in their neighborhoods. As network construction continues throughout 2022, we are hoping to begin hooking up a limited number of customers by the end of 2022 for internet and phone services.

Most areas will be ready for connections in 2023, unless of course, we run into weather or other unforeseen factors that could impact the construction timeline.

8 6 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

Q&A

WITH THE JEREMY PEARSON

WILL FORT DODGE FIBER SERVICE BE RELIABLE? Pearson: Yes! Our goal is to serve Fort Dodge with reliable service both in service and customer experience! Fiber networks are, by their very nature, extremely reliable.

There’s fewer things that can go wrong in a fiber network that can cause a service interruption. Of course, some things can’t be planned for, like someone accidentally cutting a buried fiber cable. But that’s exactly why we have a welltrained and experienced local staff. We want to ensure that our customers have the best possible experience and that if there’s any issue, that we’re aware of it immediately and can resolve it quickly. You won’t wait days for repairs with Fort Dodge Fiber. We are municipally owned which means that we also use the very same service in our homes and businesses, so like you, we understand how necessary it is in today’s world.

WILL I HAVE TO SIGN A LONG-TERM, YEARSLONG CONTRACT FOR SERVICE? Pearson: No. Fort Dodge Fiber will not require a contract for service. We’re confident in the quality of our services and customer experience, that if you’re not satisfied, you’re free to switch providers with no early termination fees.

Fort Dodge Fiber will also not charge any installation or activation fees for first time customers.

I’VE REGISTERED FOR UPCOMING SERVICE AND WAS TOLD I’D HAVE A SITE SURVEY. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? Pearson: During a site survey, a technician from Fort Dodge Fiber will visit your home or business to determine where best to run a service line. On the outside of the building, that will include determining the best path for the fiber to be run to avoid any obstacles on your property like trees, underground pet fences, irrigation systems, etc., as well as to determine the connection point on the building. Inside, they will determine the best location for the fiber interface device and wireless router, as well as determine what wiring might be needed inside the home or business. Due to the fact that the technician will need to access your home to make these observatory determinations, we will need someone over the age of 18 to be present during the appointment.

WILL THERE BE DATA LIMITS ON FORT DODGE FIBER SERVICES? Pearson: No. All Fort Dodge Fiber internet plans will include unlimited data. You’ll have plenty of bandwidth for all of your streaming and surfing needs.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO HAVE A FIBER SERVICE DROP INSTALLED AT MY HOME OR BUSINESS? Pearson: During the construction phase, installation of the fiber service line and whatever services you choose will be at no cost to our customers. It is easier to run these service drops during the construction phase than later on, so we encourage residents to register for services now. Registering does not obligate you to have services once construction has finished and customers are being hooked up.

AS A RENTER, SHOULD I REGISTER FOR FORT DODGE FIBER OR SHOULD MY LANDLORD? Pearson: Even if you are renting, you should still register for Fort Dodge Fiber. On the questionnaire during the registration process, please list the name of your landlord, an email address, and phone number. We will need to get the landlord’s permission to run a fiber service line to your building or home.

We know that there are many more questions that residents have about Fort Dodge Fiber, service drops, construction, service plans, and more. If you have questions, please the City of Fort Dodge or email us at Fiber@FortDodgeFiber. com. Our goal is to provide residents with the best customer experience possible, and that includes answering all of your questions!

9 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 7

artistspot

Did you grow up in a musical household?

I grew up listening to music. No one really played instruments in our household but Mom and Dad always listened to country music. Back in the 70s, they followed a band around the band’s name was the Steve Bledsoe Band. I would tag along and I just loved listening to their music. I watched my Dad help them equalize their mix during their gigs and I loved it!

I also watched him during his time at ICCC when he was teaching broadcasting so I learned so many different aspects of the electrical part of engineering.

At what point did you take an interest in sound engineering?

When I was kid, I actually wanted to be a performer.

I learned guitar and would put on my own shows in my mind and in our basement but, I was just way too shy. I couldn’t do it. I tried to play Christmas songs for our family during the holidays but I just froze . So, I learned I’m most comfortable behind the board.

What are some of your most memorable moments during a gig?

Around 1995, I was at the Laramar Ballroom when the Ski Band was opening for Fog Hat. Ed Wilson was running sound for the Ski Band. I watched him like a hawk. He taught me about the balance of a show. Making sure the vocals are always at the forefront and adjusting the bass and treble as needed. I knew in that moment, on that night, that this is what I wanted to do.

I was also fortunate to work with Andy Anderson from 1998 – 2021. He helped me learn more about multiple monitor mixes.

Mark Gales

Hometown: Fort Dodge • Profession: Live Sound Engineer

What type of show is your favorite to work?

Head East, Atlanta Rhythm Section, The Byrds, Spencer Davis Group, Rick Derringer, Delbert McClinton, Samantha Fish, and many many others.

10. What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in sound production over the years?

Going to digital with lighting and sound gear has been a game changer. Not only being compact but more energy efficient and just lighter weight.

You still going to be doing this in 25 years?

I will do it as long as my body allows!

What would you tell a student or young adult, interested in getting their feet wet in your career field?

First of all, you have to be passionate about doing this kind of work. You have to be able to take what you can get for work and try anything and everything. It never hurts to have a second job while you’re getting started. Start training your ear. Listen for instrumentation, listen for highs/lows, bass/ treble and the various drum kit pieces just learn it all.

What is the most challenging thing to happen during a gig?

The first national act that I ever ran monitors for was Blue Oyster Cult. To say I was scared doesn’t even describe it. Before the band arrived, we had spent some time getting everything dialed in. I was in control of their monitors and made some adjustments throughout and the show went off without a hitch. After I survived this show, I knew that I could make it through any gig.

What type of show is your favorite to work?

I really enjoy motorcycle rallies. It’s fun to work monitors for their events. Sometimes there are as many as 10 – 12 monitor mixes and I like the challenge.

8 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 10

shiningstar

Lea Chua Chiaco When did you first become interested in learning music?

At age 4, I started learning to play the violin. I also began voice lessons with Mrs. MaryAnn McSweeney last summer of 2021.

Do you have a musical family?

My grandpa and brother play the violin and piano. My dad used to play the euphonium.

What do you think about while performing?

I mostly try to focus on my violin. I check my that my bow is straight and my fingers look good.

Do you get nervous on stage? If so, how do you overcome your nerves?

I do not get too nervous because I have been on stage a lot of times. When I do get nervous, I try not to look at anyone and just look at my fingers and my violin.

What do you most enjoy about playing in front of other people?

And why?

I get to show people how I am improving at playing the violin. I practice a lot at home, so it is fun to play in front of other people too. They get surprised when they hear me play because I am very little.

Age: 7 Grade/School: 3. 2nd Grade in St. Edmond Catholic Hometown: Fort Dodge • Instrument: Violin

What’s the hardest part about playing in front of other people?

And why?

Sometimes, when there are a lot of people, then I feel like there are way too many eyes on me. I cannot see my mom or dad, so I try to just focus on my violin.

What are some of your other hobbies?

I love to sing and dance. I like to read books about animals and Junie B. Jones. I also love to go swimming, and hangout with my friends.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to visit, where would you go and who would you take with you? Why?

I would go to a super nice beach like Maui. I would take my mom because she will make things better all the time.

If you could go to any live music performance, who would you like to see?

I would love to see Justin Bieber and hear him sing Ghost.

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

11 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 9

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

GREATER FORT DODGE GROWTH ALLIANCE BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Construction for Fort Dodge Fiber, the city’s new municipal broadband utility, is anticipated to begin this month, bringing Fort Dodge residents and business owners the opportunity to experience lightning-fast internet paired with exceptional customer service.

“Construction crews are expected to begin installing underground conduit, fiber lines and setting up other necessary facilities throughout the community,” said Jeremy Pearson, Executive Director of Fort Dodge Fiber. “As soon as this begins, we will update the community so that everyone is aware of what’s taking place and who the crews are in your neighborhoods. This is an exciting new step for us.”

The construction process is highly anticipated after thousands of residents began the registration process in April to make the switch to local broadband service. The registration process is the first of four steps that residents and business owners can make to be hooked up but does not constitute a binding service agreement. It is instead a planning tool as leaders continue the process of surveying properties for service hookups and to ensure that enough materials and staffing are available.

As network construction continues throughout 2022, Fort Dodge Fiber will begin hooking up a limited number of customers for internet and phone services. Most areas will be ready for connections in 2023.

“Fort Dodge Fiber is a fantastic, reliable, and local option for internet for residents,” said Pearson. “Our goal is to serve with reliable service and customer experience. Fiber networks are, by their very nature, ex-

10 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 12

tremely reliable. If something were to happen, like an

“It’s easier to run these service drops during the con-

underground buried fiber cable is cut, we’re local and

struction phase than later on, so we encourage resi-

would know about it right away and would be able to

dents to register now, even if they’re only considering

get to work fixing the problem. We aren’t just offering

Fort Dodge Fiber for the future,” said Pearson. “Reg-

a service; we’re using it ourselves too.”

istering now does not require you to sign up for actual service when it comes time to hook up your neigh-

Registration for Fort Dodge Fiber continues online at

borhood.”

FortDodgeFiber.com. Throughout the initial registration period, residents are asked to complete the form

Fort Dodge is now the second largest city in Iowa with

and won’t be charged a fee to have a fiber service drop

a municipal broadband utility. Cedar Falls is the larg-

installed at their home or business.

est in Iowa at this time.

July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 13 11

City Connect FORT DODGE

GIRLS STATE SOFTBALL Fort Dodge is gearing up to host the 2022 Iowa Girl High School

themselves to the tournament teams and spectators.

State Softball Championship on July 18-22. This tournament

Dodge Parks and Recreation staff does a great job providing

Fort

is the largest special event Fort Dodge hosts and we have had

services for the tournaments with the assistance of funding from

the honor of hosting it since 1970. The tournament hosts the 40

the Fort Dodge Convention Visitors Bureau. Many dedicated

best teams within the state of Iowa and spectators can watch

volunteers and employees work in the hot July heat to provide

the best of the best play this American summertime tradition.

the needed services for the tournament to run smoothly. Iowa

Teams from every corner of the state strive for years to get a

Central Community College’s commitment to providing lodging

chance to play at the Iowa Girls High School Softball Champi-

and meals for the teams is also extremely important. Local me-

onships. It is a summertime tradition that Fort Dodge is proud to

dia such as the Messenger assists by providing excellent cover-

host. During the five days of the tournament, 14,000-15,000+

age of the tournament. The volunteer organization, PICA (Pride

players and spectators, including media from across the state,

in Community Appearance), works diligently to beautify Rogers

will be at Rogers Sports Complex. Many hotels, restaurants, gas

Sports Complex and the community in general for our residents

stations and retail businesses see a significant uptick in traffic

to enjoy and our visitors to see. These are just some of the ser-

during this week, creating an economic impact of approximately

vices that are critical to the tournament staying in Fort Dodge.

$1 million from this tournament alone.

Following the 2021 tournament, Lori Branderhorst, Parks, RecEven with our long history of hosting the Iowa Girls High School

reation and Forestry Director, praised everyone who makes Har-

State Softball Championships, Fort Dodge should not take the

lan Rogers the destination for State Softball over the past 51

tournament for granted. Our community must sell itself each

years. “We’ve had a terrific week, which is a testament to the

and every year by providing top-notch facilities

staff and the people who keep the tradition alive at

and services to the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union while our businesses

sell

the park,” Branderhorst told Messenger Sports Editor Eric Pratt. “We value the little things so much, and it (collectively) makes a difference. I can’t thank them enough for the work they do, both before and during state week.”

12 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 14

“I think what makes it work above all else, though, is the fact that we are never satisfied with where we stand. Our goal is always to grow and figure out ways we can improve as the tournament host. It’s about the personal touches and relationships we build and maintain. So, I look at this (then recently announced) five-year extension (through 2025) as a challenge to both the city and the community in general.

What will we do over these next five years to keep this tournament in Fort Dodge for the long term?”

In the same article, Branderhorst said “We have to separate ourselves in that way — not just at the park or through Iowa Central (who annually provides housing to nearly 30 teams on campus), but as a community-wide effort. What kind of experience are the teams having, not just when they play and where they stay, but in Fort Dodge as a whole? It’s healthy to always assess what we are doing and where we can improve, both individually and collectively.”

To keep this tournament Rogers Sports Complex needs to be one of the premier softball facilities in the state. These improvements require investment by the City of Fort Dodge as well as private funding. These investments not only impact the State Softball Championships, but also other various baseball and softball tournaments held at Rogers Sports Complex throughout the season. These tournaments are critical to bringing in tourism dollars to the community. Rogers Sports Complex is a venue to be proud of and continues to get better every year. “This complex is still one of the premier complexes, not only in the state but in the Midwest,” Fort Dodge City Council member David Flattery said at the 50th-anniversary celebration for the park in 2019. “We’re very fortunate to have this facility, but we can’t just sit back,” he said. “We’ve got to continue to move forward. We see a lot of competition throughout the state and the Midwest for this type of facility.” His words continue to hold true today.

Our residents have the opportunity to see all the fun firsthand by going out to watch their favorite teams or any of the outstanding softball teams here from throughout the state. We encourage everyone to show the teams coming into town for the tournament what makes Fort Dodge great.

Let’s put our best foot forward and keep the tournament coming back from now through 2025 and beyond.

July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 15 13

2 0 2 1 2 7

N E WS

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance July 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

We love celebrating our members and so far in 2022 we have had many organizations and businesses join the Growth Alliance.

Skyla Porter

We want to thank each one and look forward to working together on our goals of economic and community development.

Deena McCaulley

If you’d like to learn more about membership with the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, visit our website at www.greaterfortdodge.com or contact Jill Nelson at jill@greaterfortdodge.com.

Community Development Director jill@greaterfortdodge.com Organizational Administrator skyla@greaterfortdodge.com Office Manager deena@greaterfortdodge.com

Lydia Schuur

Communications Specialist lydia@greaterfortdodge.com

MISSION STATEMENT “Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance is an efficient organization whose mission is to unify and coordinate accountable, economic and community development, to enhance the quality of life in Fort Dodge and the region.”

16 14 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

Alliance News

Burbank Insurance Association, Inc. 17 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 15

Alliance News

16 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 18

Alliance News

The Fort Dodge Civitan club had a picnic on June 26th at Lakeview Shelter, Brushy Creek Recreation Area.

This was a covid-friendly style event where everyone enjoyed the 76 degree weather and light wind.

Ninety residents from area group homes involved with Lifeworks (also including the Humboldt location), One Vision, and individuals that live on their own treated themselves to playing two games of Bingo. Each participant won two gifts.

Bingo seems to be their favorite game!

A potluck was held afterwards with food brought by club members and each home. The club provided grilled hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and hot dogs for the main course! And there were plenty of desserts.

About 17 members were involved in this project.

The clubs' efforts of providing the Bingo gifts and meat, etc are raised from their fundraising efforts throughout the year. The year round fundraiser is the Civitan International Candy Box project. This is the blue box with peppermints in it, of which one is located at the Growth Alliance and area restaurants in town. A percentage of those funds is kept here and rest is sent to International. Other fundraisers have been the recent Puffin Pastry fundraiser and selling bird feeders.

19 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 17

Webster

County Connect Badger Lake Restoration Project

Beginning in the Spring of 2021, multiple re-

light reaching vegetation. Typically, a lake can

ports of dead fish at Badger Lake were made to

rebound from winterkill, but this particular year

the Webster County Conservation Department,

resulted in a loss of the majority of the predato-

prompting them to work with Ben Wallace, Fish-

ry fish, resulting in an imbalance in the species

eries Biologist, and the Iowa Department of Nat-

composition of the lake.

ural Resources Fisheries Bureau to survey the lake and work out the best options to improve

The Webster County Conservation Department

water quality and the fishery.

held a public meeting, in partnership with the DNR to inform the public about this issue and

It became clear, after reviewing survey data, that

discuss potential solutions. Through this meet-

the majority of the lake’s game fish had been lost

ing, it was determined that the Conservation

to the recent winterkill. Winterkill is a term used

Department will begin a lake restoration project

to describe the loss of fish in winter because

in August 2022, after the Dragon Boat Races.

oxygen was lacking in a waterbody. Submerged

This project will lower the level of the lake by

vegetation and algae create oxygen through the

fifty percent, at which point a chemical called

process of photosynthesis. During the winter,

Rotanone will be applied, killing the remaining

oxygen production is often reduced because ice

fish – mostly Common Carp and small Crappies

and snow on the lake limit the amount of sun-

– in the lake. This is necessary to re-establish

20 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 18

balance in the predator/prey structure of the lake. Restocking the fish population will then create a new balance.

Fish renovation is not the only change coming. Badger Lake will also see improved fishing access, construction of fishing jetties, vegetation management, shoreline protection, sediment removal, and water quality improvements.

Protect the lake for future generations

Park dedication

Reduce siltation

1988: Silt Pond Install

Reduce nutrients

1991: Badger Lake Dredging Project

Stabilize shoreline and streambanks Improve fishery

2007: Watershed Development

Improve access to fishing and boating

Grant Award

All projects are scheduled to be completed by the Summer of 2023.

1963: Badger Lake Dam Completed 1965: Badger Lake filled and Kennedy

The Badger Lake project has several goals:

Improve overall water quality perception

LAKE HISTORY

2008: Prachased 6.65 Acres Along Badger Creek 2008-2009: Water Monitoring – Depth, Flow, Testing of nitrates, phosphorous, e.coli, sediment 2016: SRF Steambank Stabilization Every 5-7 years: Silt Pond Maintenance

21 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 19

t

RIBBON

Blanden Art Museum Congratulations to the Blanden Art Museum on your ribbon cutting, celebrating your 90th Anniversary!

The Blanden Art Museum is located at 920 3rd Ave South in the Historic Oak Hill District of Fort Dodge. They are open Tuesday Saturday from 11am-5pm.

22 20 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

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Fort Dodge Community Foundation and UNITED WAY

BUILDING A SAFE COMMUNITY Our community is an important aspect of our

drugs and the harmful impact they are having

lives. We live, work and play here, and we raise

on individuals, families and communities. Law

our families here. We want our community to

enforcement professionals estimate that 90% of

be a safe, welcoming and robust place to live. In

crime in communities is usually drug related.

building a better and stronger community and

The scourge of drug use among our youth is a

improving our quality of life, preventing crime

very serious concern and substance abuse treat-

plays a very important role.

ment centers nationwide are seeing significant increases in youth addiction to illicit drugs in-

In every community, quality of life is directly

cluding marijuana, methamphetamine, and opi-

linked to how safe the residents feel. When fear

oids.

of crime exists, quality of life drops significantly.

When people feel safe with their kids playing in

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation and

their yards, families walking in their neighbor-

United Way has begun implementing a plan for

hoods, enjoying our parks, or jogging on our

establishing a coalition for supporting local law

trails, the community becomes more vibrant and

enforcement agencies and advancing prevention

prosperous.

and safety initiatives that are focused on enhancing public safety, educating the public and our

Preventing crime and protecting ourselves and

youth on how to be safe and make good deci-

our family members is always high priority.

sions, and mobilizing our community to prevent

Crime affects not only the emotional, physical,

and reduce the use of illegal drugs among our

financial, and psychological status of people, but

youth and young adults. This community-based

it also impacts our businesses, our economic sta-

coalition will promote cooperation and collabo-

bility and the growth of the community.

ration among local organizations, businesses and the general public and work together toward the

Community safety and well-planned crime pre-

common goal of making Fort Dodge and Web-

vention requires collaborative strategies and a

ster County a safer place to live, work and raise

proactive approach to prevent crime and vic-

our families.

timization. It begins with supporting our law enforcement officers, but it also includes citizens

To learn more about this safe community coali-

being proactive as well. Our police and sheriff

tion and how you can get involved, contact the

deputies are our partners in preventing crime,

Fort Dodge Community Foundation by calling

but they need our help and commitment to im-

515-573-3171, or stop in our offices at 24 North

prove our community’s safety.

9th Street in downtown Fort Dodge.

Unfortunately, every community in our country, including Fort Dodge and Webster County, are facing the destructive consequences of illegal

24 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 22

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

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 23 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 23 25

College Connect

Transfer Majors Make Iowa Central A Great Place to Start Whether you are interested in Agriculture or Theater, or anywhere in between, Iowa Central offers numerous pathways for students to choose from which directly transfer to a four-year university. “When a student enrolls in one of the transfer majors we offer, it is a seamless transition from Iowa Central to our state universities,” points out Dr. Jesse Ulrich, President of Iowa Central Community College.

Transfer majors, which include a wide range of programs at Iowa Central, have articulation agreements with the three Iowa regent universities as well as several four-year private colleges. The agreements specifically align each class in the pathway with the requirements of the courses required at the university. “When a student chooses a transfer major, we provide the student with the specific list of required courses to complete at Iowa Central for that particular program so there’s no guess work for the student. It’s a clear path to the next step,” shares Dr. Stacy

26 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 24

IOWA CENTRAL TRANSFER MAJOR PROGRAMS Agriculture Business, Transfer Major AS Agriculture Education, Transfer Major AS Animal Science, Transfer Major AS Biology, Transfer Major AA Biology, Transfer Major AS Business, Transfer Major AA Chemistry, Transfer Major AS Mentzer, Vice President of Instruction. “Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible,” adds Dr. Mentzer.

Financially, there is a significant cost savings for students and their family. Based on 12 credit hours, the average cost of tuition between the three state universities is around $8,500 per year. Iowa Central is approximately $4, 600. “The Transfer programs directly align with our purpose which is to help students earn their degrees in the shortest amount of time possible with the least amount of debt so they can go on to have a better life,” shares Dr. Ulrich. Iowa Central has strategically focused on growing the number of transfer majors they offer and now offers the most of any community college in Iowa.

Enrollment for the upcoming fall semester is underway with classes starting on August 22nd . To enroll or learn more about one of the transfer majors or one of the many other programs Iowa Central offers, call the Iowa Central admissions department at 1-800-362-2793 or learn more online at https://www. iowacentral.edu/admissions/. You can also use the featured QR code to take you directly to our site!

Communication, Transfer Major AA Criminal Justice, Transfer Major AA Early Childhood (Teacher Licensure), Transfer Major AA Elementary Education, Transfer Major AA English, Transfer Major AA Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Transfer Major AA Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Transfer Major AS Fine Arts, Transfer Major AA History, Transfer Major AA Journalism, Transfer Major AA Mathematics, Transfer Major AA Physics, Transfer Major AA Physics, Transfer Major AS Political Science, Transfer Major AA Psychology, Transfer Major AA Secondary Education, Transfer Major AA Social Work, Transfer Major AA Sociology, Transfer Major AA Theater, Transfer Major AA

July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 25 27

28 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 26

FOR

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

• Engagement Sets • Diamond & Gemstone Jewelry

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29 July 2022 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • 27

t

RIBBON

First Interstate Bank Congratulations to First Interstate Bank, formerly known as Great Western Bank, on their ribbon cutting.

First Interstate Bank in Fort Dodge, IA offers a comprehensive suite of personal and business products to take care of your diverse financial needs. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer looking for a mortgage, an established business looking to streamline your payment methods, or someone who is ready to plan your financial future, their local banking experts at will help you reach your goals

30 28 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

t

RIBBON

Community and Family Resources Congratulations to Community and Family Resources on your ribbon cutting celebrating the new location of your Men’s Recovery Housing Program!

The recovery house program focuses on helping the men get back out into the community, find employment, learn to budget money and pay bills, and manage their recovery. They also continue with six hours of treatment each week.

31 July 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

Stocks. Bonds. CDs. IRAs. Mutual funds.

Ryan C Kent, CFP®, ChFC®, ABFP Financial Advisor 1411 First Avenue South Fort Dodge, IA 50501-4950 515-576-2771

50

M

54 21

A

48 20

D M

50 32

F

52 29

10

54 31

25

J

> edwardjones.com

MKT-5894M-A

30 32 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022

Member SIPC

Edward Jones Financial Focus

WHEN CAN YOU CHOOSE RETIREMENT? If you’re like most people, your work has been a central part of your life. So, wouldn’t it be nice to have the flexibility to decide when you no longer want to work?

Many people of retirement age have achieved this type of control. In fact, two-thirds of workers ages 65 and older say they work primarily because they want to, not because they have to, according to a 2021 study by Edward Jones and Age Wave. But that means that one-third of workers in this age group feel financially compelled to work. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike the work they do — but it’s probably fair to say they would have liked the option of not working. How can you give yourself this choice?

You can start by asking yourself these questions: When do I want to retire? You’ll want to identify the age at which you wish to retire. You may change your mind later and move this date up or back, but it’s a good idea to have a target in mind.

What sort of retirement lifestyle do I want?

When you retire, do you anticipate

staying close to home and pursuing your hobbies, or do you hope to travel the world? Would you like to spend your time volunteering? Open your own business or do some consulting? Clearly, some of these choices will require more resources than others, so you’ll want to follow a financial strategy that aligns with the retirement lifestyle you intend to pursue.

Am I saving and investing enough?

As you chart your course toward your retirement journey, you’ll want to assess the sources of income you’ll have available. If you think you may be falling short of achieving your retirement goals, you may need to consider saving more.

When should I start taking Social Security? You can begin collecting Social Security benefits as early as 62, but your monthly payments will be much bigger if you wait until your “full” retirement age, which will likely be between 66 and 67. Your decision about when to take Social Security will depend on several factors, including

your other sources of income and your family history of longevity. Of course, as you’re probably aware, the Social Security system is facing significant financial stress, so it’s possible that we may see changes to Social Security, based on actions Congress could take.

In any case, you might want to be fairly conservative in estimating how much Social Security can contribute to your retirement income.

By addressing the above questions, you can get a clearer sense of when you might reach the point at which work is optional. But you’ll also need to consider other factors, too, such as how much you enjoy working or when your spouse or partner is planning to retire. In any case, the sooner you start planning for this next phase of your life, the better position you’ll be in when it’s time to make the transition.

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

33 July 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

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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 • July 2022 32

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

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

Member FDIC

Did you know GreenState is consistently ranked in the Top 2% Nationally for returning profits with better rates & lower fees?

That means one of the Top financial institutions in the country, is here in Fort Dodge.

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