Tag Archives: DeWitt Chamber & Development Company

DeWitt Delivers: Clinton County SCORE

DeWitt Delivers, now that is the SCORE!  I am told by this community’s business leaders that local customers are starting to return and there are high hopes for rebounding after the initial shock of the COVID crisis.

Lots of things are coming out of the crisis, not the least of which is the renewed recognition of what a great place DeWitt and the surrounding county is to live. Businesses large and small, customers, students, churches and everyone benefiting from this community can feel good about where they live even in troubled times.

My wife (Shirley Shelton) and I grew up in DeWitt when our area was much different, but both our families had local businesses and we knew that every year presented uncertainty.  I think that is why our area is so resilient. 

What made the uncertainty scary is that we were dependent on our own experiences to make business decisions.  There was a lot of wishing and hoping that went into those decisions.  My dad called it “seat of the pants” management and he often said we had to be a “jack of all trades”.  That brings me to the point of this blog, Clinton County SCORE.

Clinton County SCORE is part of the Quad Cities SCORE Chapter and as such has all the expertise and resources of that organization available to all businesses in this area by adding a local presence…me.  I was born and raised in DeWitt and have lived in Camanche and Clinton where we owned businesses and was active with economic development and chambers of commerce.

Shirley and I left the area over 30 years ago, had successful careers, and unique business and living experiences. We have come back to see that growth and quality of life has improved.  We want to give back.  Making SCORE more available to businesses in DeWitt and Clinton County is one of the ways we have chosen to do that.

SCORE is a completely free service for all small and medium sized enterprises.  SCORE is a completely free service for all small and medium sized enterprises.  All we ask is your support in using our services and reporting on our value to the rest of SCORE so that we can continue to offer these services in Clinton County.

SCORE services are immediately available.  Like our Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/SCOREQuadCities/ and be sure to check out events going on now and available via Zoom.  You can also reach out to me directly at dillon.franks@scorevolunteer.org.

We have subject matter experts in practically all industries.  Particular to me is food and beverage, retail, construction, manufacturing, technology-based, professional services, and agri-business. Whether you are an established enterprise or just dreaming of starting one, reach out, with SCORE you are never alone. We can meet virtually and will be available in-person when the SBA gives us the go-ahead.

Pathways to Leadership

Leadership, as I tell my 8th grade students in our Middle School Leadership Council, is something that should not be turned off and on. It is a characteristic that tugs at you, guides your decision making, and can have the power to help others in our community, school, family, or even world. Some people are born to lead, and others are uncomfortable in the role but know when the right cause or opportunity presents itself, that it has to be done.

My personal pathway to leadership began with great role models, a faith in Christ, and a strong sense of civic responsibility. Parents who were leaders in their professions and the community, coaches and teachers that gave tirelessly of their time, and leaders in this very community, that inspire us to do more by leading in positive ways every day. Our leadership motto at Central DeWitt Middle School is “We Rise by Lifting Others”. Whether that desire comes from a great mentor, our faith tells us to do so, or we feel civically responsible, in the end it is helping others that motivates us all to do something!!

Leadership, like life, has phases. No matter how many boards and committees we sit on or work organizations we have been involved with, sometimes it just isn’t the time. Life happens, and in different phases of our life, our role as a leader takes back seat to things like mother, or caretaker, or student, or just plain tired and can’t right now. Great leaders know when to follow. Great leaders listen. Great leaders change others but also see the importance of others changing them. Great leaders know when something is not their expertise. Great leaders sometimes are so busy doing laundry and changing diapers that being a part of a committee or organization seems light years away. Leaders doubt their abilities at times, and man do they sometimes get burnt out. It is in times like these that I have been so thankful to be a part of a community that picks each other up, supports each other, and continues to grow because so many people have the desire to share their talents and help others.

We have six great examples of that diverse talent and leadership that were recognized as Leaders Under Forty by the LincolnWay Foundation this fall. All of them and their involvement in our community help remind us of how everyone’s talents and pathways to leadership are different. While I may be able to help organize a beef dinner and coral 120 wild 7th graders every day. Justin Butt, owner of Butt’s Meat, is busy selling the beef, working on preservation and looking to corral “actual” wild animals. Rachel Neilsen, Investment Assistant at Cetera Advisor Networks at DeWitt Bank & Trust, can obviously dance; I just pretend to know how. She knows how to run go carts. I, on the other hand, can drive a mean golf cart! Jon Thiel, owner of Thiel Motors, and I both put out fires, but he has sold cars to people in 17 foreign countries, I work hard just to get 13 year- old’s to be able to identify, heck even name, 17 foreign countries. April Carpenter, the Administrative Assistant at the DeWitt Chamber & Development Company, and I have never even met but apparently, we are the same person. She is hanging out at the UCC church, mowing, working on a summer lunchbox program, and volunteering at the school in Wheatland while I am doing much of the same in DeWitt. Stacie Cronkleton, owner of the Photography Mill, is running for school board and is an award-winning photographer; I am serving on other boards while still trying to figure out how the camera on my phone works! And last but certainly not least my dear friend Sharae Huff, Director or Quality at Community Health Care. Her passion for bringing quality healthcare to all people and dedication to those in our community who need it most is second to none, but just the names of the conferences she attends and classes she is taking make my head spin.

Six different pathways to Leadership, six great examples of how to take your passions and do something with them for the betterment of our community.

It is through organizations like the LincolnWay Community Foundation and countless others in this community that we are reminded of what can be done for others when people give of their time, talent, and resources. Everyone has something to offer, and each of us is just a small piece of the puzzle that when put together makes this area of Iowa such a special place to be.

Jen Froeschle

DeWitt Resident & Community Volunteer

Central DeWitt Middle School Social Studies Teacher

2012 LincolnWay Foundation Leader Under Forty


Partnering with Peanut Butter

My name is Andy Sokolovich, and I serve as the Existing Industry Manager for the Clinton Regional Development Corporation. I have been involved in the creation of the Clinton County Community Student Loan Assistance Program for over a year. In that time, we have fostered a collaborative environment focused on the growth and wellbeing of our county. A strong member of that collaboration has been the DeWitt Chamber & Development Company. Angela, Molly, and April have been supportive from the start and will serve as valued partners in the promotion and expansion of the program. Their involvement has been the linchpin to our continued success, and I am thankful to have such a dedicated and responsible team within Clinton County.

The Clinton County Student Loan Assistance Program launched on August 1st, 2019. The program aims to attract talent to the county through a first-of-its-kind student loan payback initiative.

The idea was sparked after I read an article featured in Crain’s Business highlighting a Chicago-based entrepreneur assisting private companies in the development of a student loan payback incentive. The report stated that “When [student] loan repayment is offered, people are 85% more likely to accept a job.” That statistic was shared by the CEO of Peanut Butter, David Aronson.

With that amount of success, could the same result apply to talent attraction within a county?

I contacted David Aronson and posed the same question over the phone. David had not yet considered applying the tactic to community growth but was willing to partner in investigating the possibilities. Over 12 months, David and I coordinated with Clinton County Auditor, Eric Van Lancker, to design a program built around collaboration and the common goal of growing our county’s tax base. With $1.5 trillion in national student loan debt and 45 million Americans paying toward that debt, the need for assistance was evident.

The conversations which ensued revealed a collaborative desire from other organizations interested in expanding the program.

Our partners now include:

City of DeWitt

City of Clinton

City of Camanche

Central DeWitt School District

Clinton Community School District

Camanche Community School District

The layering of partners allowed us the ability to adjust the program to reduce administrative expenses while providing a more robust and attractive incentive.

The return on investment we will receive far surpasses the financial stake in the program. Taking action to expand our population supports the workforce demands of our county-based employers, encourages new construction and home purchases, increases student enrollment in our schools, and ensures the growth of a healthy economy. The economic multiplier resulting from the attraction of one family is massive!

Plus, we can now leverage the program to recruit our sons and daughters back to the communities that helped raise them. If an individual leaves our county seeking a form of post-secondary education and creates unpaid student loan debt; as a result, they will qualify for the program upon their return.

The development of this program is progressive and outside the box. It’s this type of action that will shine a light on the many benefits associated with calling Clinton County home.

For more information, please visit the Clinton County Student Loan Assistance Program.

Please help us by sharing the program with your friends, family, and peers.

~ Andy Sokolovich, Industry Manager at Clinton Regional Development Corporation

Musings of the Iowan of the Day

I am an Iowa girl through and through.

I was born in Davenport. I spent summers on my grandpa and grandma’s farm near the Quad Cities.  I am Iowa State University educated. And I have lived all but two years of my adult life in the great state of Iowa. My husband passed away years ago, and our four children have grown and flown, but I am still here. I will always be an Iowan. I really cannot imagine living anywhere else. Simply put, I love this state.

Nevertheless, it came as a total surprise to me when I received a phone call telling me I had been selected as Iowan of the Day at the Iowa State Fair. I was one of 10 state residents who were chosen by the Blue Ribbon Foundation for recognition each day of the fair, based on  their “strong work ethic, loyalty to helping others and an exceptional sense of Iowa pride.”

A lot of people have personal profiles that are similar to mine, so I am not certain why my name managed to float to the top of the nominations. After all, there are about 3.5 million residents in this state.

What I do know is this: Iowa is great because of her people. Iowans care about each other and are quick to step up and help fellow citizens and causes when there is a need. Some might say Iowa’s strength is her volunteers.

Iowa has been good to my family and me. Our children all received their K-12 educations in the Central DeWitt Community School District (CDCSD), have gone on to higher education and have careers that are rewarding and meaningful to them. They have had a strong work ethic modeled for them all their lives. They experienced “Iowa Nice” in the form of support, encouragement, and kindness from their teachers, “first job” employers, Sunday school teachers, scout leaders, coaches, mentors, friends, neighbors –and even people who didn’t know them particularly well but still cared about them.

The greater community of DeWitt was absolutely the best possible place my husband, Al, and I could have chosen to make our home back in 1972. I am so glad we did. And the longer we stayed, the more we realized we needed to be a part of giving back to make sure the community didn’t lose its hometown feel.

Like many families, we have had our share of crises as the result of accidents, illnesses, Al’s death, and our grandson’s life-threatening heart defect. Each time, we have been wrapped in DeWitt’s love and caring culture. That is something we can never repay.

And so, volunteering is my small way of paying it forward for all the blessings and kindnesses we’ve been shown. All the wonderful, thoughtful, kindhearted and helpful people who live in Clinton County inspire me. They are the reason I try each day to do my best to make our small part of the state the best it can be. It is why eastern Iowa is the best place to live, work, do business and raise a family.

I am humbled and proud to have been recognized as a volunteer, but it really all boils down to the advice Central DeWitt grad, Dean Banowetz offered to the Central DeWitt graduating class at commencement last May. “If you see something that needs to be done, do it,” Banowetz challenged.

Do what you can, when you can. Practice the Golden Rule. Share what you have to share. Be helpful instead of hurtful. Know that even a small act of kindness that seemingly may go unnoticed can give someone the boost they need to go on with their day.

There are big and small ways to be get involved. It doesn’t take a huge time commitment to raise your hand and say, “I can bring a pan of bars,” or “I’d like to help with that project.”

But the more you do become involved, the more you will want to do a little more —because that is what living in a small community is all about.* 

Mary Rueter, Community Volunteer Extraordinaire

* If you’d like to volunteer or get involved in the DeWitt area, reach out to the DCDC staff for suggestions, download our list of Clubs & Organizations, or visit our Employment & Volunteer Opportunities page on the DCDC website.  If you have a volunteer opportunity your organization would like to share, you can post it on that page as well.

Supporting DeWitt, Growing A Business

In the DeWitt community, Krieger’s has been a longstanding community leader helping to raise tens of thousands of dollars for various projects in DeWitt. Currently, the dealership has raised nearly $20,000 for the Frances Banta Waggoner Community Library.  We also do a yearly drawing on prom night, giving some lucky student their first vehicle.  Other projects that we are proud to be part of are the yearly cake auction and the annual golf tournament sponsored by the Lions club. Krieger’s through the years has been a donor to many other silent auctions and private fundraisers.  We do this because we love being part of DeWitt and know that a strong community supports its local businesses.

Krieger Auto started way back in the 1920’s when two young automobile mechanics worked together at the local Ford dealer in Muscatine, Horst and Strieter. Joseph Krieger and Charles Henderson were the mechanics. Charles opened his own garage in 1931, known as Henderson’s Garage in downtown Muscatine. Joe joined Charles in 1932 and they became equal partners in the garage. Soon after, Chevrolet stopped by the garage and asked them to take on Chevrolet, and as time went along during the 30’s, the two partners acquired numerous other franchises, including Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac. The original dealership operated out of a 3 story building, with service on the first floor, the second story was the showroom, and a body shop utilized the third floor.

In 1951, General Motors wanted to separate the Pontiac – Cadillac franchise from Chevrolet and Oldsmobile. Marvin Krieger then designed a new building at the corner of Sycamore and Mississippi Drive that would house Henderson’s Chevrolet – Oldsmobile. After a few tough years running the two garages together, they decided to go their separate ways. Henderson’s Chevy Olds continued to run out of the new building and Krieger’s Pontiac Cadillac out of the three-story garage.

The beginnings of Krieger’s in 1956 were a tough going. A young Marvin Krieger struggled to operate the business. Marvin invested in hiring quality employees to help run the operation. Hiring great folks like Warren Tutt, Carson Schwandke, John Sprouse and Evie Lange, the business started to flourish. This started the principles of the “Krieger Way” of doing business.

Hiring Quality employees and treating them as such, providing exceptional Customer Service, and staying true to our small town values will add up to a bright future for everyone.

You will find a breath of fresh air blowing through every Krieger’s location. It is a new spirit of service that starts with a good neighbor approach and a renewed dedication to listening. Krieger Auto Group has been serving customers since 1956. Selling and servicing new and pre-owned Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Lincoln, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram vehicles. Hiring quality employees and treating them as such, providing excellent customer service, and staying true to our small town values will add up to a bright future for everyone.

We are excited to work with the DCDC in strengthening our ties to the community.  This summer we plan to sponsor one of the outdoor movie nights and other events to give back to the community that has given so much to us.

Whether you are looking for a new or a high quality used car, truck or SUV Cross-Over, quality mechanical service or repair, an experienced detail department to clean and freshen up your vehicle, you can depend on the decades of experience at Krieger’s of DeWitt. Krieger’s Auto Group, a proud partner in the Muscatine and DeWitt communities.  “Shop us once you are Family for life”.

~Mark Christenson, Sales Manager at Krieger’s DeWitt 

OPPORTUNITY – Iowa Small Business Owners

What I’m about to tell you will all sound “too good to be true” and you’ll keep waiting for the “catch” when you learn that this Small Business Program will cost you $0. It is my belief that the intention is to simply help small businesses grow.

We are fortunate to live in a town that fosters great connections to the people and businesses in it. We are able to share our successes and work together to find ways to help small businesses grow in DeWitt. The DeWitt Chamber & Development Company is one of the organizations that supports and encourages those business and personal connections. That’s why I reached out to them to help me share this opportunity with our small business, with the hope that a few of our small businesses become even better, which would impact the overall vibrancy of our DeWitt economy.

I am Mary Sandry, co-owner of Sandry Fire Supply in DeWitt. Last year I participated in a program called 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB), a collaborative training program sponsored by Goldman Sachs.  The goal is to put existing small businesses through a business education program which fosters business growth.  I am excited to share that this program is now going to be available to up to 60 small businesses in Iowa through a “state-wide” collaboration between Iowa Community Colleges.  It will cost nothing for these businesses to participate.

I learned about 10KSB when I was looking for someone/something to help Bob and I evaluate our business and assist us with planning for its future. My experience was without a doubt, the best thing I’ve ever done for myself and our business.

Although I will admit that I was completely skeptical and particularly cautious, it turned out to be a great decision.  The program consists of a combination of online and in-person sessions, along with training in such things as financial statements, hiring practices, marketing, negotiations, etc., I ended up gaining so much more. The networking opportunities and the shared experience with like-minded business owners were invaluable.

The opportunity to work side by side with business owners who experience the same challenges with business operation and growth was incredible.  I have established what I hope to be life-long relationships with contacts who truly want to help me grow my business.

We have used the guidance from the program to develop a new marketing plan for Sandry Fire which gives us the reach we needed to establish new connections and ultimately grow.  We have enhanced numerous in-house processes and software programs that allow for continued growth and improved customer support. Best of all, 10KSB has given me the confidence and courage to take the steps to grow and develop ourselves into the company that supports our core values.

Since completing the program in November 2017, our business has experienced an almost 50% growth.  Although we cannot attribute all of that to this program, I do believe that it has made a difference in the future of Sandry Fire Supply.  We have the knowledge and resources to continue to grow.

Participation in this program will be a significant commitment of your time.  Time to learn and grow – while continuing to operate your business.  But the opportunity to make your business better is truly one you shouldn’t pass up.

Please consider applying for this opportunity.  If you have any questions or would like to hear more about 10KSB, feel free to contact me (mary@sandryfire.com) or check out the 10KSB Iowa website (www.10KSBapply.com/iowa) to learn more about their mission and what other businesses have gained through this opportunity.

Good Luck – and “Let’s Make Small Big” in Iowa!

 

Mary Sandry

Sandry Fire Supply LLC

Serving Those Who Serve Our Communities

Paul Skeffington Memorial Race: More Than Just A Road Race

The first running of the Paul Skeffington Memorial Race took place on June 11th, 1988. It was started by the family of Paul Skeffington, a popular local businessman, who passed away in January of 1988. At that time, I was the Director of the DeWitt Chamber of Commerce Chamber so when the family asked for ideas for a memorial we proposed a race/run/walk with proceeds to go towards community projects.  Paul had been an avid walker and huge supporter of the community, so this seemed like a natural fit.  So how did we “run a race”?  Well, with the help of a group of runners, along with the Skeffington family, other volunteers, and business sponsors we put on a race that had 330 participants…but who would have thought that 31 years later the race would still be running!!!  Over the years, this race, under the direction of a hardworking group of volunteers, has grown in popularity.  The postrace party has evolved into a community, family friendly event.  In fact, this will be the first time our postrace party will be listed on the Tunes in Town schedule and promoted as the only Saturday night concert with music by Wild Oatz, food by the DeWitt Nite Lions, and a beer garden sponsored by Hall of Fame Pizza & Wings & Scott Drug. You can find additional information on our web site http://skeffrace.com/

And true to its original mission, the Paul Skeffington Memorial Race continues to support improvement projects for our community. The race annually provides two $500 scholarships to Central DeWitt High School seniors. The race has also made significant contributions to DeWitt Parks and Recreation projects that include a $30,000 donation towards the new bridge at Westbrook Park and $25,000 for the Paul Skeffington Memorial Trail expansion that will be part of this year’s race course.  I was actively involved with the race for the first 10 years.  At that point in time, I felt it was time for new leadership and stepped back.  Three years ago, I was approached to serve as the race director – Thinking back to the legacy of Paul, his commitment and support of the community and to fitness, I found myself saying yes…And I also found that some things haven’t changed.  The race is still organized by an excellent group of volunteers.  The Fun Run is still FREE and we’ve gone back to having a bike give away for the youngsters who take part.  And the cost of the race has stayed the same since the first one which is due to the phenomenal sponsorship support we get from area businesses!  And post party keeps evolving into a community gathering of runners, walkers, spectators, with family friendly events, food, and FREE entertainment!

I moved to DeWitt in 1977 as a newlywed and I’ve never looked back.  DeWitt has Delivered my hometown…it’s where my 3 kids were all born and raised. It’s where I had the opportunity to  help DeWitt grow while serving as the first full time Executive Director of the DeWitt Chamber and Development Corporation.  I’ve served on numerous local, state, and national boards that helped keep DeWitt in the spotlight. I’ve traveled the world but always look forward to coming back to DeWitt, my home.

Ilene Deckert – Paul Skeffington Memorial Race Director 

 

 

 

DeWitt is More Than a Place to Live, It’s Home

Florida girls really seems to “have it all.” Flawless tan skin, 24/7 access to the beach, and a countless number of things to do. This “have it all” Florida girl was me—until about three years ago. Today, I live in DeWitt, Iowa.

Moving to DeWitt was initially a culture shock, everything was completely different from the big city of Fort Lauderdale. However, throughout my time here I have managed to get involved in soccer, cheerleading, Future Business Leaders of America, Student council, and gain an internship at the DeWitt Chamber & Development Company, that has greatly expanded my knowledge of the real world.  On top of all this, I worked two jobs during my senior year; waitressing at Sunrise Café and teaching at a local daycare. Through it all, I’ve found my passion for writing, which I plan to further pursue, majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Iowa next fall. A decision made possible by moving to DeWitt.

I have found that living in a small town is a unique experience. Previously living in the big city of Fort Lauderdale, Friday Night Lights was just a movie to me. Once I moved to DeWitt, it became a lifestyle. The way the town comes together under the stadium lights every Friday night in the fall is something uniquely special.  I believe it’s an experience that many people who’ve lived here their entire life forget to cherish. An entire community with members from every generation coming together decorated in our purple and gold attire, displays the tight knit community we live in, something that is not experienced in every town. I was also able to become involved with many quirky traditions, like spelling out the phrase, “Go Sabers” with purple paint across the chests of eight, over-excited boys on Football game days, and “seniorizing” the freshmen by taking them to Walmart at 5 AM. Both of which, are memories that will last a lifetime.

With help from members of the community, I’ve found a home through Sunday morning breakfasts with regulars at Sunrise, through taking the scenic route at Westbrook with my two petite puppies, and, most importantly, through my friends becoming a family.

Overall, since arriving here I’ve learned many things: The terrible two’s prefer to be called terrific, no one moves faster than a busy waitress, and making a goal in soccer is much more complicated than the human eye can make it out to be (at least for me). Most importantly,  I’ve learned it doesn’t matter where you are as long as you have people who support you by your side, and that DeWitt is much more than just a place to live, it’s a home.

Brianna Jorge, Central DeWitt High School Senior & DCDC Intern   

Thankful I “Was Born In a Small Town” with BIG Opportunities

I am a Central DeWitt Alumni double majoring in Marketing and Event Management at Iowa State University. I proudly tout my I <3 DeWitt koozie with me around Ames and I love having my friends visit my hometown. Although DeWitt is a small town, we have so much to offer! After working at various places in DeWitt, and as Marketing and Events Intern at First Central State Bank this summer, I have had the opportunity to experience many different roles within the community.

When I look back, growing up in DeWitt was perfect. I wouldn’t change ANYTHING. I attended St. Joes K-8th and learned so much about community, being a friend, and being a productive student. As a kid, there were so many ways to be active in DeWitt. Although sports weren’t always my thing, in a small community they were a way to learn how to be a team mate and see community members support each other. 4-H taught me how to work hard, apply myself, and give back to my community.

In high school, I found my passion for business. Mr. Petsche encouraged me to join Future Business Leaders of America and enroll in various business courses. He was an amazing mentor and opened my eyes to all the opportunities DeWitt has for young professionals. Once I reached my senior year of high school, I became the Dewitt Chamber and Development Company’s very first intern. The DCDC now hosts an intern each year and continues to give them the tools necessary to be successful.

Although I have been a Cyclone my entire life, it became real the fall of 2015 when I packed up my belongings and made the trip to Ames to embark on my college journey at Iowa State University. I realized how fortunate I was that my hometown school, Central DeWitt Community School District, provided so many amazing duel credit opportunities.   Because of this I began my college career with a plethora of credits and could jump right into my core business classes and continue on pursuing my dreams. Freshmen are typically told it is hard to get an internship, not impossible but uncommon. I wasn’t going to let that stop me. I had seen various Facebook posts about the Ohnward Leadership Program and was eager to apply.  What’s better than being able to come back to your hometown AND have an adult job?

Guess What?  I got the job! The Ohnward Leadership Program helped me find my strengths and nurture my passion for social media marketing, design, and event planning. Learning about community banks only strengthened my dedication to my hometown and my views of pursuing a career within a small community. I was able to attend many different community based committee meetings for the Central DeWitt Performing Arts Center, DeWitt Chamber & Development Company, LincolnWay Foundation of Greater Dubuque and the DeWitt Crossroads Triathlon. Sitting in on these committee meetings gave me a new perspective on community involvement and a great appreciation for everyone who continues to volunteer their time to make our community thrive.

Fast-forward to THIS year! You may have seen me out and about representing First Central State Bank!  Throughout the summer months I served as a Marketing and Events intern. Aside from managing First Central’s various social media platforms, I assist in the planning and implementation of various events that we sponsor throughout the year.  Having the opportunity to donate my time and efforts into making events like the Clinton County Fair successful and exciting, is extremely rewarding. For example, this year I designed and implemented fun Snapchat filters to use at the fair! This was something outside of the box for First Central.  Piloting this idea at First Central and seeing the results was very exciting and rewarding.  First Central State Bank has been receptive to new ideas, continues to offer opportunities to put ones passion, and interests to work.  This in turn continues to benefit our local communities in various ways.

I have determined through the years that, without exceptional teachers, parents, mentors, and employers I would not be the young professional that I am today. My education and these various local opportunities have shaped my knowledge and experience, but my mentors have encouraged my passions and interests. Ultimately, Central DeWitt Community School District, First Central State Bank, Ohnward Bancshares, Inc., Iowa State University, my friends and family and the DeWitt Community provided me with opportunities for growth.  I will be forever thankful that I was born in a SMALL town with BIG opportunities.

Thank you, DeWitt!

Madeleine Blandin –  Central DeWitt Alumni, Class of 2015                                                                 Junior Double Majoring in Marketing and Event Management at Iowa State University

Community Gallery is a Labor of Love

The DeWitt Operahouse Theatre was built in 1876 and underwent a renovation/restoration in 1979-1982.  The DeWitt Theater Company bought the building next door and began the second renovation and expansion that included a larger lobby, handicapped accessibility, main floor restrooms along with gallery space for display of artist’s work.  The project had been a labor of love for the DeWitt Theater Company, many of whose members had been involved in the first renovation.  After 3 years of planning, fundraising, and finally construction, the Operahouse Theater was ready to reopen! Interest in building a gallery based on the John Bloom legacy, the Grant Wood byway corridor, and nationally known DeWitt artist, Ellen Wagner, became a reality.  With the generous contributions and the major sponsor, First Central State Bank, the new First Central Art Gallery resulted.

As former art teachers and members of the DeWitt Area Fine Arts Foundation Gallery Committee, we arrange for area artists to exhibit their work in the gallery.  The goal is to enrich the quality of life in our community by encouraging, supporting and promoting the fine arts.  Our mission is to provide and coordinate fine art exhibits for the community.  The committee acquires lists of artists by attending area art events, visiting specific artist’s exhibits or by recommendations of other artists.  We also communicate with Central DeWitt art teachers to schedule displays of student’s work.  Each exhibit has a 2 month slot in our bi-yearly schedule. Photos and information about the artist is also published in The Observer to help promote the works.

We have been fortunate to show a variety of mediums (watercolor, acrylic/oil on canvas, pastels, pencil drawings, graphics, collages, photographs) and genres (nature, abstract, wildlife, portraits, cityscapes, landscapes, whimsical, and calligraphy).  This year we are including the old American art form of quilting, running between July 3rd and August 1st in the gallery.

We are privileged to use time and talent to serve on the Gallery Committee and encourage everyone to enjoy and support this cultural and educational addition to our great community!

Carol Beck and Elaina Lomsdalen – DeWitt Area Fine Arts Foundation Gallery Committee Members