Wednesday January 7th, 2026 | | |
Greetings Growth Alliance Members,
As we kick off the new year, we are energized by the opportunities ahead and inspired by what we can achieve together. This year promises continued growth, meaningful collaboration, and a shared commitment to delivering value for our members. We look forward to building on our momentum, strengthening partnerships, and embracing new ideas that will shape a successful and impactful year ahead.
We invite you to join us for our 1st Member Meet & Eat Luncheon of 2026 on Thursday, January 15th, from 12:00–1:00 PM, at the Fort Dodge Community School District Administration Office.
This casual luncheon is a great opportunity to connect with fellow members while enjoying a meal. Get the insights on the progress and exciting developments taking place across our region.
Our Meet & Eat Luncheons are designed to help members stay informed, engaged, and connected. Join us to learn what’s happening in our community and be part of the conversation shaping our region’s future.
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Astra Ferris
Astra Ferris, IOM
Chief Executive Officer
| | The Newsletter is growing, and we need your help to keep the flow of things going smoothly. If you are wanting to submit a flyer please click HERE to complete the NEW process making sure to include all the details needed for your submission. *Reminder: Deadline to submit is 12:00PM the Tuesday before the Newsletter releases. | |
New episode dropped today, take a listen:
| | **Spots available for the My Business, My Alliance Ad in the Fort Dodge Messenger! Click HERE to find out how to advertise your business! | | Our ribbon cuttings are open to the public! | |
Coffee & Conservation
Learn all about Iowa’s oldest known archaeological sites from guest speaker, Mark Anderson, an Archaeologist from the Sanford Museum.
✨Saturday, January 10th at 10:00AM
📍River's Edge Discovery Center
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Gone Country
Get ready for a big night of boots, belts, and all your favorite country hits. Gone Country brings the sound, spirit, and storytelling of modern and classic country music to the stage in one unforgettable live concert experience.
Featuring Alyssa Allbee, Malaney Butrick, Mikeal Campbell, Mason O’Brien, Reese Pederson, and Jake Rossow
✨Saturday, January 10th
Doors open at 6:30PM
📍Laramar Ballroom
💵General Admission tickets $15 online or at the door, VIP options available
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Journey Thru Parkinsons
To learn about Parkinson’s disease, its effects, and possible treatments, register now to participate in “A Journey Through Parkinson’s Disease” an educational series from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Webster County Extension, along with Iowa State’s Department of Kinesiology, and Human Sciences Extension and Outreach are sponsoring the series in Fort Dodge at Friendship Haven beginning January 13, 2026.
Register Here
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Proof That Works: Using Data to Justify
This virtual workshop is designed for elected officials, city and county staff, nonprofit professionals, and community partners involved in community decision-making. Participants learn how to gather, interpret, and use information to justify next steps for grants, council discussions, and planning decisions.
📅January, 15th 2026
10:00AM-12:00PM
Register Here
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Annie’s Inspired: Grain Marketing
What is the Annie’s Inspired: Grain Marketing Class? With unpredictable crop prices and fluctuating input costs, effective marketing can significantly impact the profitability of corn and soybean operations. In many cases, a few key marketing decisions can determine how well a producer is compensated for an entire year’s work. This women-centered course is open to all, and is designed to help participants manage price risk using proven tools such as forward contracts, futures, and options. The program offers an in-depth exploration of how options function, including when and why to use them, and guides participants through the process of developing a comprehensive marketing plan tailored to their operation.
✨Classes start Thursday February 5th
6:00PM-9:00PM supper at 5:30
Register
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Beginning Beekeeping Classes
Hamilton, Webster, Humboldt, and Pocahontas County Extension are inviting aspiring and early-stage beekeepers to join the Virtual Beginning Beekeeping Class, a five-week series designed to build strong, confident, and knowledgeable beekeepers before spring arrives. The course runs February 2–March 2 from 7-8:30 PM. The total cost is $40 per person, and book and materials are included. Each session will be led by experienced professionals, including Roy Kraft, former president of the Iowa Honey Producers Association, area beekeepers, and Andy Joseph, apiarist with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
More Info
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For a list of all events,
click here.
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Join The Magic Behind The Scenes!
Iowa Central Community College is offering an exciting volunteer opportunity with The Prince of Egypt stage production—the epic Bible story of Moses reimagined for the stage!
We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the Stage Crew for this unforgettable musical. This is your chance to:
Work with ZFX Flying Effects, the same company that brings Broadway shows to life!
Help create jaw-dropping special effects and Broadway-caliber magic right here in Fort Dodge.
Be part of a dynamic team bringing one of the most powerful stories ever told to the stage.
📅Show Dates: February 25 – March 1
✨First Crew Rehearsal: February 5
📍Location: Iowa Central Community College
✨Volunteer Perks: Hands-on experience, 2 comp tickets, networking with creative professionals, and bragging rights for helping make something spectacular happen!
No experience? No problem! We’ll train you. All you need is a willingness to learn and a passion for live theatre.
Ready to make theatre history in Fort Dodge?
Sign up today or get more info: email Sean Mulvihill, Iowa Central Theatre Director at mulvihill@iowacentral.edu or call 515-574-1206. Spots are limited—don’t miss out!
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Talk Fort Dodge - Recapping 2025
Talk Fort Dodge Todd and Jeremiah sit down to discuss their favorite parts of Talk Fort Dodge in 2025. Who was your favorite guest in 2025?
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Turning Pages in Fort Dodge: The Green Dragon Bookshop with Cori Theroux
The Spin Markket Report Cori Theroux is the owner of The Green Dragon Bookshop in Fort Dodge, Iowa. We discuss her decision to open a bookstore in downtown Fort Dodge, why she loves reading, her favorite genres, upcoming events at The Green Dragon Bookshop, book recommendations, and more!
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