The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Publishes New 515 WEST Magazine for City and Region
Leverages as a vital talent attraction tool with national advertising campaign WEST DES MONES, IA (June 7th, 2022) – As part of the 2022 Economic Development Tour, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) in cooperation with the City of West Des Moines, published a premium, glossy, 88-page magazine that highlights why West Des Moines is the best American city to live, work, and play. The magazine tells the story of West Des Moines and people with articles including “Movers & Shakers”,
V.I.P. Mortgage Launch Party on June 16th
VIP wasn’t started as a company, but as an idea. An idea that the mortgage lending process could be simplified. An idea that the dream of homeownership is very much alive and well. And an idea that the people working on your loan understand what you are going through because they have been there themselves. Founded by Marine veteran Jay Barbour in 2006, VIP has grown from a single office with two loan officers in Scottsdale, AZ, to over 26 brick and mortar branches (across many states) with a few
We’re celebrating women in business with the Ivy Women in Business Awards
Do you know a rising star who deserves recognition? Has a mentor made a difference in your life and career? Does your organization support and develop female leaders? Nominate them for an Ivy Women in Business Award. It’s not just for women. The Ivy College of Business is now accepting nominations for the fifth annual Ivy Women in Business Awards. The awards celebrate women in business, and their champions, and serve as an opportunity to inspire college women as they prepare for a bright future in
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Named Finalist for Prestigious Chamber of the Year Award
WEST DES MONES, IA (THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has been named a finalist for the 2022 Chamber of the Year award, presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Va., that has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry. The award is the most prestigious and competitive
WDM Chamber to host inaugural Tina Talks; speaker lineup announced
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) will host the inaugural Tina Talks, an afternoon featuring eight of the top female leaders in the region, at West48 on Tuesday, June 7. The event, co-sponsored by Christopher’s Fine Jewelry, will begin with a formal program at 2 p.m. followed by an exclusive cocktail social for attendees from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. “We are thrilled to introduce this new event to our community featuring eight of our region’s top
WDM Chamber Announces 2022 Citizen, Emerging Citizen of the Year
WEST DES MONES, IA (THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022) – For the 77th consecutive year, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the annual West Des Moines (WDM) Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year, Steven and the late Kent Gaer and Gianna Pugliese. Steven Gaer recently completed 14.5 years of service as the Mayor of West Des Moines in 2021. Prior to his service as Mayor, Steven served 8 years on WDM City Council. Under his leadership as mayor, the City of West Des Moines experienced
Stivers Ford Lincoln Expands with Addition of Stivers Midwest Pro Upfitters
Broadens Services to Provide Law Enforcement, Safety and Commercial Vehicle Upfitting May 3, 2022 — Waukee, Iowa Stivers Ford Lincoln of Waukee, Iowa, is expanding with the addition of Stivers Midwest Pro Upfitters. With this addition comes expanded service offerings such as law enforcement, safety, and commercial vehicle upfitting. Stivers Midwest Pro Upfitters provides innovative industry leading products for law enforcement. It also specializes in the upfitting of safety vehicles, such as those used
SUMMER CONFERENCE OFFERS ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING AND RESOURCES FOR VETERANS
AMES, Iowa (April 20, 2022) – Are you a Veteran planning to start or grow your own small business? There are a few basic things you must know to get started down a path to success.Home Base Iowa, America’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Iowa, and the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship at Iowa State University will be co-hosting a first-ever Iowa Veterans Entrepreneurship Conference that will take you through all aspects of starting a business, including topics such as insurance, intellectual
WEST BANCORPORATION, INC. ANNOUNCES RECORD FIRST QUARTER NET INCOME, DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND
West Des Moines, IA - West Bancorporation, Inc. (Nasdaq: WTBA; the “Company”), parent company of West Bank, today reported first quarter 2022 net income of $13.2 million, or $0.78 per diluted common share, compared to first quarter 2021 net income of $11.8 million, or $0.70 per diluted common share. On April 27, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.25 per common share. The dividend is payable on May 25, 2022, to stockholders of record on May 11, 2022. The
10 Pitch Competition Winners Receive Collective $42,000 in Winnings
WEST DES MONES, IA (THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2022) – Last week’s second annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo saw two days of packed programming, all aimed at assisting minority business owners and entrepreneurs in building a legacy of wealth. Programming on Thursday was highlighted by a pitch competition, supported by Exclusive Pitch Competition Partner Bank of America. Ten businesses competed at the end of the day for a share of the $42,000 grand prize. Lumena Energy Inc. won
Eight Fellows Join Mid-Iowa Health Foundation’s HealthConnect Fellowship
Des Moines, IA (April 7, 2022) – Mid-Iowa Health Foundation welcomes eight advocates to its HealthConnect Fellowship, expanding the current network of more than 20 fellows who are leading system-change efforts to improve children’s health and well-being in central Iowa. “Mid-Iowa Health Foundation is proud to foster a unique opportunity to support change makers in our community,” said Dr. Nalo Johnson, President & CEO of the Foundation. “Our staff and Board are focused on providing resources for time,
24/7 BLAC to host “Vitality” Conference and Expo on Economic Prosperity
WATERLOO, Ia. -- The Big Ten Conference’s senior vice president, people & culture officer, Omar Brown, will be the keynote speaker for “Vitality,” a conference and expo on economic prosperity hosted by the 24/7 Black Leadership Advancement Consortium (BLAC) June 23-24 at the Waterloo Convention Center. Also featured will be U.S. Bank’s Eva Brown, segment leader - minority and women-owned businesses; and Vanessa Gail Perry, professor of strategic management and public policy at the George Washington
FAREWAY BREAKS GROUND ON TWO, NEW METRO STORES
Construction begins on new locations in Clive and West Des MoinesNEWS RELEASE (Clive/West Des Moines, IA) – Fareway Stores, Inc. hosted ground breaking ceremonies today for two, new stores to be located at 16035 Hickman Road, Clive and 9080 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines. The Clive location will provide for an approximately 24,000 square foot Fareway grocery store and the West Des Moines location will provide for an approximately 21,000 square foot Fareway grocery store. “We are excited to
DMOS Orthopedic Centers Outperforms National Averages for Total Joint Replacement Surgeries
The accomplishment is among several identified using patient-reported outcomes data CHICAGO, April 7/PRWeb/ - DMOS Orthopedic Centers (DMOS), a multi-faceted orthopaedic specialty center in the heart of Central Iowa, outperforms national averages for one-year post-operative outcomes for total hip and total joint replacement surgeries. This accomplishment is one of several quality improvements identified using patient-reported outcomes data and is part of an organization-wide effort to standardize quality
FAREWAY TO BREAK GROUND ON NEW METRO STORES
MEDIA EVENT (West Des Moines/Clive, IA) – Fareway Stores, Inc. will host ground breaking ceremonies for two new metro store locations:LOCATION: 232-West Des Moines WHEN: Monday, April 11 1 p.m. WHERE: 9080 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines SPEAKERS: Mayor Russ Trimble Katherine Harrington, West Des Moines Chamber President/CEO Debi Durham, IEDA Executive Director Reynolds W. Cramer, Fareway CEO LOCATION: 233-Clive WHEN: Monday, April 11 2:30 p.m. WHERE:
Dr. Hijinio Carreon named one of Becker’s Hospital Review’s chief medical officers to know
Clive, Iowa; April 5, 2022 – MercyOne Chief Medical Executive, Hijinio Carreon, DO, is one of 88 chief medical officers of hospitals and health systems to know in 2022, as selected by Becker’s Hospital Review. Dr. Carreon is the only Iowa-based health leader to be recognized. In its announcement, Becker’s acknowledged the vital role of chief medical officers and executives stating, “They are the link between physicians and administrators of hospitals and health systems. They bring an important clinical
WDM Chamber Announces 10 Finalists for Pitch Competition
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, April 5, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has identified the 10 finalists that will be competing for part of the $40,000+ grand prize at the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (Athene Summit) pitch competition. Funds were raised through the generous support of the Athene Summit sponsors, George Herrera, the keynote speaker from the 2021 Summit and Travel & Leisure. The Athene Summit is brought to you by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of
Governor Reynolds Awards $2.26 Million in Summer Youth Internship Grants
DES MOINES – Governor Kim Reynolds today awarded 35 projects with $2.26 million in state grants to launch valuable youth internships across Iowa this summer. Future Ready Iowa’s Summer Youth Internship Program grants are being awarded for the fourth consecutive year to help youth gain access to meaningful work experience while exploring and preparing for high-demand careers. The grants will directly support efforts to increase the career opportunities available for Iowa’s youth, including in areas with
DEI Workplace Excellence Awards’ Calls for Nonprofit Applicants
WEST DES MONES, IA (MONDAY, APRIL 4, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is now accepting nonprofit applications to be the recipient of 10% of sponsorship funds raised from the second annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Workplace Excellence Awards (DEI Awards). To be considered, applicants must be an Iowa based 501©3 tax exempt nonprofit organizations that supports social justice. The purpose of the DEI Awards is to learn from and to also elevate those who have created inclusive
MercyOne launches matching tool to personalize your search for a primary doctor
Connect with a primary care provider that’s your perfect match Clive, Iowa; March 30, 2022 – Meeting your health goals is easier when you have the right doctor. When it comes to establishing a connection with an expert you trust, MercyOne’s new matching tool removes the guesswork - just take the quiz, view your matches, and schedule an appointment. MercyOne’s matching tool is the first of its kind in the state of Iowa. By taking a short quiz, individuals in need of a primary care provider share how they
West Bank named on list of top performing banks in the nation
S&P Global just released its annual list of America's top 50 performing banks during 2021. West Bank is listed as the #13 top performing large community bank in America. West Bank is the only Iowa bank and one of very few from the Midwest to make the list. S&P Global Market Intelligence analyzes the financial performance of community banks $3-$10 billion in asset size, including both publically and privately owned banks. Six metrics are used to rank banks, among them a return on tangible common
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WORKFORCE TRENDS & OCCUPANCY STUDY CAPTURES INSIGHTS TO HELP ADVANCE GREATER DES MOINES & DOWNTOWN DSM
GREATER DES MOINES, IA (March 8, 2022) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership, Bâton Global and Reworc have released the results of the DSM Workforce Trends and Occupancy study as it relates to the regional workforce, including Downtown Des Moines (DSM). The study included nearly 5,200 participants from 18 organizations to identify trends specific to the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region and Downtown DSM. This is the first-of-its-kind community-level study of knowledge workers in the world. Insights will be
Daymond John, Dr. Pamela Jolly, Additional Speakers Announced for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is proud to announce their speaking lineup for the 2022 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (the Athene Summit), presented by Wells Fargo. The lineup, which includes over 40 individuals, features two keynote speakers, Dr. Pamela Jolly and Daymond John. The Athene Summit is a two-day conference hosted at Athene. Day one features a pitch competition supported by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of
Iowa’s premier Business Analytics Symposium returns to Des Moines
The annual Business Analytics Symposium, hosted by the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business at Iowa State University, will return to Des Moines on April 5. Registration is open through March 29. Iowa’s premier analytics event, the Business Analytics Symposium brings together analytics professionals and decision makers from some of the nation’s leading insurance, financial services, marketing, and manufacturing companies. This year’s symposium features three keynotes from industry leaders:Helene
Zirous announces the launch of a formalized managed services offering
West Des Moines, IA – March 14, 2022 – Zirous announces the launch of a formalized managed services offering with a cloud-based solution for email, file storage, collaboration, backup, security, workstation management, anti-virus, firewall, and network management. After 35+ years solving customer’s issues around user management, access and security, Zirous created a managed services offering tailored to customer needs and protection. As organizations struggle with managing the business while conducting
How to improve your sales through customer segmentation and target marketing
WEST DES MOINES, IOWA — StoryStruck Marketing is pleased to announce that CEO Mackenzie Walters will present at the Small Business Success Summit Friday, March 11 at the FFA Center at DMACC Ankeny Campus. The conference is hosted by the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Walters’ presentation, “Know your audience to increase sales,” will focus on the power of customer segmentation and target marketing. In fact, the best way to improve your sales closing rate is to improve your sales funnel — by focusing your
Attorneys Clark Butler and Riley Coy recently joined Dentons Davis Brown
Clark J. Butler is an associate in the Litigation Division, assisting in a number of general litigation areas, including divorce and family law, real estate litigation, labor and employment, and commercial litigation. Before joining Dentons, Clark practiced at Whitfield and Eddy Law. “Coming to Dentons Davis Brown as a Litigation associate is incredibly exciting, as I not only get to continue gaining experience both in and out of the courtroom but also because I get to observe and learn from the years
Denman & Company, LLP is pleased to admit Robert Endriss, CPA as partner
Robert provides audit services and consulting for a wide range of entities including for profit, nonprofit, construction and governmental entities. Endriss received his BA in Accounting and Economics from Simpson College. He is a member of the AICPA and ISCPA. He also serves in leadership roles throughout the community. About Denman & Company, LLP Denman & Company, LLP, one of Des Moines metro area’s largest locally owned CPA firms, located in West Des Moines. Denman & Company has been
ithrive31® Announces New Professional Coach
Iowa – Melissa Wagner has joined the ithrive31® team as a certified leadership and transitions coach. She specializes in guiding leaders to find their purpose and increase their performance, and will focus on providing one-on-one coaching for all levels of professional leaders. She enjoys watching people step into their full potential and achieve their goals towards living a more purposeful life. Melissa brings vast experience working with multiple large corporations as a leader in Marketing, Digital
Iowa Based Thought Leader Recognized by SUCCESS Magazine
Since 1897, SUCCESS Magazine has been the leading voice for people who take full ownership of their personal and professional growth. And for the sixth time, they have researched to find the most influential leaders in the space of coaches, speakers, authors, mentors and thought leaders. In honor of the 125th anniversary of SUCCESS in 2022, they are shining the spotlight on everyday leaders who reflect the true value of their magazine: impacting others in a positive way. Readers of the magazine nominated
WDM CHAMBERS BRINGS ON NAMING RIGHTS, PRESENTING SPONSOR FOR BLACK & BROWN BUSINESS SUMMIT
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2022) – Athene and Wells Fargo have subsequently come on as the naming rights and presenting sponsors of the second-annual Black & Brown Business Summit (the Summit).“The inaugural Black & Brown Business Summit was an incredibly successful event, and we are proud to continue our sponsorship this year,” said Grant Kvalheim, CEO and president of Athene USA. “As a company, it is imperative that we use our voice and leadership position to advance economic opportunity for
DMOS Orthopedic Centers and Landmark Companies, Inc., announces land purchase in the far western Waukee area, known as Stratford Crossing
“Since 1955 DMOS has been committed to providing the very best orthopedic care to Central Iowa. We are very excited to join the Waukee Community and expand our services to Western Iowa,” said Rich Green, COO of DMOS. Stratford Crossing, a 237-acre Landmark Development Services, Inc project that was master concepted in 2018, is a half mile North of Hickman on the west side of N. 10th St. Backing up to the Raccoon River Valley Trail, this development is across the street from Waukee Northwest High School,
Iowa Healthiest State Initiative Receives $25,000 through Bank of America COVID-19 Employee Booster Initiative
To help fight hunger in Des Moines, Bank of America donated $100 for each bank employee who recorded a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot in addition to a company contribution DES MOINES – Bank of America today announced a $25,000 donation to Iowa Healthiest State Initiative, supporting the organization’s Double Up Food Bucks program to address food insecurity in the region. According to Feeding America, 297,800 people face hunger in Iowa with 94,270 of them being children. As the pandemic continues,
Solidarity Microfinance Receives $300,000 Grant from Bank of America
Funding will be distributed for loans and services which help local entrepreneurs raise capital and gain additional business resources Des Moines, Iowa — Solidarity Microfinance today announced a grant from Bank of America that will allow the organization to further invest in Iowans working toward personal financial goals and entrepreneurial expansion through $300,000 in additional funding spanning three years. Solidarity Microfinance, a non-profit program of Iowa Community Capital, creates economic
Grant Opportunities Now Open for Summer Youth Internship Projects
DES MOINES – Governor Kim Reynolds today announced the opening of another round of funding opportunities for employers, nonprofits, educational and community groups seeking to provide high school youth with internship opportunities. Now available for the fourth consecutive year, Future Ready Iowa’s Summer Youth Internship Project grants are designed to help youth explore and prepare for high-demand careers while gaining work experience and developing the personal attributes necessary to succeed in the
Tony Dickinson Named to Board of Trustees for Boys & Girls Clubs of America
CLIVE, IA — (Jan. 31, 2022) — NCMIC is proud to announce that Tony Dickinson, president of NCMIC Finance Corporation, has been named to the national board of trustees for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He is the first Iowan to ever serve on the Boys & Girls Clubs of America board at the national level. Dickinson has volunteered and served on the board of directors for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa for over 12 years and most recently held the position of vice president of support services. He
Don’t Feed the Elephants! Overcoming the Art of Avoidance to Build Powerful Partnerships by Sarah Noll Wilson
WEST DES MOINES, IA January 24, 2022 - The COVID-19 crisis has shed light on just how critical internal communication is to a company’s success. As business leaders look toward 2022, they’re reevaluating how to best support their teams. Don’t Feed the Elephants! by Sarah Noll Wilson is a deep dive into the human ability to avoid addressing conflict within a relationship, and in doing so creating a harmful barrier to success. Great relationships aren’t the ones where there’s no conflict, but the ones where
Statement by Administrator Guzman Applauding President Biden’s Appointees to Lead Two SBA Regions
With newest appointees, SBA’s experienced regional leadership team will collectively strengthen the agency’s impact and outreach to millions of small businesses across 44 states, three U.S. territories, and Washington D.C. WASHINGTON – Today, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice for America’s 32.5 million small businesses in President Biden’s Cabinet, issued the following statement praising President Biden’s appointment of Geri Sanchez
Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition Now Accepting Applications
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is now accepting applications for the 2022 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (BBBS) pitch competition, brought to you by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of America. Deadline to submit applications is Tuesday, March 1 by 5 p.m. “The West Des Moines Chamber Black & Brown Business Summit pitch competition is a great opportunity for minority-owned businesses to propel towards success,” said Annie
Heather Townsend-Macan joins BKD as partner in Des Moines
DES MOINES, IOWA – Heather Townsend-Macan has joined BKD CPAs & Advisors as a partner in the firm’s Des Moines office. She joins BKD National Commercial Services Group, where she will provide leadership for audit and advisory services for clients in a wide variety of industries, including manufacturing and distribution, food and agriculture, telecommunications, technology, transportation, energy and retail. “It is a privilege to be joining such a wonderful group of talented individuals in the Des Moines
24/7 Hosts Business, Philanthropy and Financial Leaders for Impactful Black History Month Virtual Programming, February 2022
WATERLOO— The 24/7 Black Leadership Advancement Consortium (24/7 BLAC) is excited to host a virtual series of events on topics ranging from entrepreneurship and finance to philanthropy and talent acquisition, February 2022. On February 11, the group plans to kick off the month with a virtual pitch competition where BBEA (Black Business & Entrepreneurship Accelerator-a partnership with UNI John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center, Iowa C.O.R.E. and Red Cedar) participants compete for opportunities such as
Lauren Burgeson Named President of Iowa State Bank
Lauren takes helm long held by her late father, John Des Moines, Iowa (January 2022) - The Iowa State Bank Board of Directors had the distinct honor of installing Lauren Burgeson as the President of Iowa State Bank at their January 18th board meeting. Burgeson is the first woman to hold this position at Iowa State Bank. “I am honored to continue my dad’s legacy and lead Iowa State Bank into the future,“ said Burgeson. Burgeson is a Des Moines native and graduated from Roosevelt High School before
TWO CENTRAL IOWA COMPANIES JOIN FORCES IN SMALL BUSINESS MERGER
Triplett Office Solutions purchases Primary Source Urbandale, Iowa — January 17, 2022 — CEO Dick Triplett of Triplett Office Solutions announced a merger with another privately held central Iowa company, Primary Source, Inc., effective today. This partnership will allow the Primary Source work force to join the Triplett Office Solutions Team providing effective and efficient results in business to business promotions, marketing initiatives, printing, and office furniture and supplies. “With both
Family Law and Litigation Shareholder Tyler Coe Joins Dentons Davis Brown
Tyler L. Coe recently joined Dentons Davis Brown as a Litigation shareholder. Coe most recently practiced at Whitfield & Eddy Law. “We are thrilled to welcome Tyler, with his passion for family law and strong involvement in the community,” said Dentons Davis Brown Board of Directors member Elizabeth Meyer, “The firm strives to provide a full spectrum of legal services to its clients, and we know that Tyler will serve our clients well during trying personal times.” Coe represents high and medium net worth
WDM Chamber Welcomes 2022 Board of Directors Slate
WEST DES MONES, IA (Wednesday, January 19, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) added seven new members and representatives to its Board of Directors (BOD) for 2022. The BOD is composed of 25 individuals, including 13 Board Members who are elected by WDM Chamber membership, eight representatives and four appointees. Elected Board Members beginning their two-year term in 2022 includes: Thomas Bosch, Vice President and Director of Des Moines Operations for Shive-Hattery Maria Davis,
Dentons Davis Brown Elects Four New Shareholders
Thursday, January 13, 2022Dentons Davis Brown Elects Four New Shareholders Dentons Davis Brown is excited to share that lawyers Joni Ploeger, Sean Raisch, Jonathon Schroeder, and Breanna Young were elected by their peers to become shareholders, effective January 1, 2022.Joni Ploeger guides and defends businesses in worker’s compensation defense, employment, and insurance defense matters.Sean Raisch is focused on real estate, finance, construction, and transactional business matters. He advises clients as
BUSINESS EDUCATION WEBINAR FOR VETERANS AND FAMILY MEMBERS FEBRUARY 15, 2022
The Iowa District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), invites all veterans and their family members to a one-day free virtual Reboot to Business Course. This Boots to Business: Reboot is a (virtual) half-day training program that provides participants an overview of business ownership as a career vocation, an outline, and knowledge of the components of a business plan, a practical exercise in opportunity recognition, and an introduction to available public and private resources. Please
Governor Reynolds Awards $36.6 million in Child Care Grants Projects Will Create 5,191 New Child Care Slots Across the State, Removing Obstacles to Work
DES MOINES, IOWA – Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds today awarded nearly $37 million in Child Care grants to projects that will create nearly 5,200 new child care slots across Iowa. The money will fund 108 innovative projects in 72 Iowa communities. It will be matched by another $9.7 million in private investment that has been generated through community-based partnerships to alleviate a local child care need. “I am thrilled to be able to make this substantial investment to expand access to child care for working
Iowa Launches First Statewide Program Recognizing Family-Friendly Employers
Best Place for Working Parents® designation is now available to qualifying employers January 12, 2022 (Des Moines, Iowa) – Iowa is the first state to recognize employers with family-friendly policies, such as workplace flexibility and child care assistance, with a “Best Place for Working Parents” designation, the Iowa Economic Development Authority announced today. The designation is now available to employers of all sizes in Iowa who qualify through an online assessment. “Iowa faces an ongoing workforce
ATHENE GAME CHANGER SCHOLARS PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 2022
Athene USA (“Athene”), a leading provider of retirement savings products, announced today that the application period is now open for the 2022 Game Changer Scholars Program. In its second year, the program has expanded and will award $80,000 in scholarships on an annual basis through 40 individual scholarships. The Game Changer Scholars program is designed to support students with financial need to reach their educational goals. The scholarships will be awarded based on multiple criteria. Applicants must
Carrier Access, Inc. and Entrepreneurial Technologies Announce Strategic Partnership
Carrier Access (CA) is pleased to announce its partial ownership and strategic partnership with Entrepreneurial Technologies (ET), combining CA’s connectivity and network expertise with ET’s deep skills in custom application and software solutions. “We are proud to partner with Entrepreneurial Technologies and offer custom solutions to fit the needs of the technology landscape. With technology playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of business, this allows us to deliver customized digital
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce will launch the Latino Trade Network with a Happy Hour
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) will launch the Latino Trade Network with a Happy Hour event at La Cuscatleca Southon Thursday, January 27. The event is presented by Turner Construction and supported by Granite Solutionsand Innov8 Home Solutions and will take place 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Programming will consist of complimentary food and beverage, networking, and addresses from key program stakeholders and community leaders.“We are
Spare Time Entertainment to open January 6th, 2022!
West Des Moines, Iowa - After several months of construction, Spare Time Entertainment is proud to bring Games, Lanes, Food and Fun to West Des Moines. The brand-new luxury entertainment venue will open at 340 Jordan Creek Parkway, marking Spare Time’s seventeenth location and first in Iowa. The new, 50,000 square-foot facility is the perfect place for friends and family to come together, relax, and celebrate. The venue features amenities and entertainment for groups of all sizes, ages, and abilities,
LWBJ Joins UHY
West Des Moines (January 6, 2022) – LWBJ joins UHY and expands UHY’s presence into Iowa for the first time. The combination of firms, effective January 4, 2022, adds 65 employees to UHY’s Midwest region. UHY is the 31st largest accounting firm in the U.S. with 25 offices and more than 1,200 team members. Regarding the combination, Paul Juffer, Managing Partner of LWBJ commented, “We are very excited to join UHY. Our firm has enjoyed significant growth over the past 30 years because of our talented
Monte Wyatt Receives Brainz Global 500 Award
December 20, 2021 – The annual Brainz 500 Global Awards is a prestigious list of companies, entrepreneurs and influential leaders who are recognized for their success in the business world and commitment to helping others. Monte Wyatt joins an impressive list of influencers like Jay Shetty, Mel Robbins, Jessica Alba, Oprah Winfrey, and Gary Vaynerchuk. To add to the honor, Monte was featured on the cover of the December 23rd, 2021 edition of the Brainz Magazine. Read the interview here
Blake Crow Named to Faculty at Graduate School of Banking at Colorado
Blake Crow, Partner-in-Charge of the Des Moines office of regional CPA and business advisory firm Eide Bailly, has been named to the faculty at the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. The Graduate School of Banking at Colorado is one of the premier graduate schools for those in the community banking industry. Hosted each July at the University of Colorado Boulder, this 25-month program delivers a relevant and challenging curriculum that deepens students' understanding of community banking and helps
LWBJ is excited to welcome Tyler Gerstandt, CPA and Kyle Woiwood, CPA as the newest partners and shareholders
WEST DES MOINES, December 28, 2021 – LWBJ is excited to welcome Tyler Gerstandt, CPA and Kyle Woiwood, CPA as the newest partners and shareholders. Gerstandt joined LWBJ in 2009 as part of the audit team and specializes in manufacturing, real estate, technology, and communications and he leads the employee benefit plan practice. Gerstandt also leads college recruitment at LWBJ and works with accounting students across the country. Gerstandt received his BA from the University of Iowa. He is a member of
The Samuels Group, a leading commercial construction company in Wisconsin and Iowa, is excited to announce the promotion of Jeff Curtis
Jeff Curtis has been promoted to General Superintendent of the Iowa market. With nearly 20 years of experience and a diverse portfolio of government, healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality projects, Curtis is well-versed in all aspects of construction and managing jobsites. He will use his experience in managing and supervising day-to-day activities at the construction site, and his talent for building team rapport, to mentor and oversee The Samuels Group’s superintendents to ensure professional field
West Bancorporation Foundation announces grants to local food pantries
The Board of Directors of the West Bancorporation Foundation, the charitable branch of West Bank, awarded $71,500 in grants to 18 community organizations for the 2021 fourth quarter. 6 of the 18 organizations that received grants were food pantries. The emphasis to donate to food pantries during the holidays demonstrates our commitment to the communities we serve in these difficult times. West Bancorporation grants are awarded to local community organizations in the areas of Human Services, Arts and
WDM Chamber and City of West Des Moines Announce 2021 Best of the West Award Winners Presented by Aureon
WEST DES MONES, IA (DECEMBER 13, 2021) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) and City of West Des Moines are proud to announce the winners of the second annual Best of the West Awards (BOW) presented by Aureon. BOW is a West Des Moines (WDM) focused, community-voted contest featuring 50 categories showcasing the people, places and businesses within our community. “Aureon was proud to be the presenting sponsor for the 2nd Annual Best of the West Awards,” said Anthony Kottke, Account
PWB CPAs & Advisors to Join Eide Bailly
Union boosts top 25 firm’s expertise and presence in the Twin Cities Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area firm PWB CPAs & Advisors will become part of certified public accounting and business advisory firm Eide Bailly on December 6, 2021. The combination will add two offices to Eide Bailly’s downtown presence in the Twin Cities, one in Bloomington, Minn., and another in Plymouth, Minn. PWB’s strong reputation for client service and specific industry expertise will help Eide Bailly continue to offer
BANK OF AMERICA SIGNS ON AS PRESENTING SPONSOR OF BLACK & BROWN BUSINESS SUMMIT PITCH COMPETITION FOR
WEST DES MONES, IA (NOVEMBER 30, 2021) – Bank of America has signed on as the exclusive, three-year sponsor of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s (WDM Chamber) annual Black & Brown Business Summit (BBBS) pitch competition. In its first year, BBBS amassed over 400 attendees from a hybrid audience. In total, the event donated $15,000 back to the community, $10,000 of which came from the pitch competition. “The pitch competition is a great opportunity for minority small businesses to learn from top
UScellular Pledges Up to $13 Million to Help Youth Connect, Close Homework Gap
Company Launches After School Access Project for Eligible Nonprofits to Receive Free Hotspots, Service DES MOINES, Iowa (Nov. 17, 2021) – Access to reliable connectivity causes a divide between youth who have access and those who do not. Currently, 35% of low-income households lack any access to broadband service at home.[1] This leads to an issue known as the “homework gap” among students who lack proper internet access. To close this gap, UScellular has launched the After School Access Project, a
DMOS Commits to Pro Iowa Initiative DMOS Orthopaedic Sponsors
(Des Moines, Iowa) November 16, 2021 – DMOS Orthopedic Centers is pleased to announced that it is partnering with The Iowa Soccer Development Foundation to support Professional Soccer in Iowa . Its $100,000 contribution will go towards the development of the Pro Iowa Stadium and Global Plaza in Downtown Des Moines. We value what Professional Soccer will brings to the Des Moines Community,” said Nick Honkamp, Board President of DMOS. The partnership will highlight positive community impact and bring a
Athene Earns 2022 Military Friendly® and Military Friendly® Spouse Employer Designations
West Des Moines, Iowa — November 11, 2021 — Athene Holding Ltd. through its U.S. insurance subsidiary, Athene USA, has earned both the 2022 Military Friendly® and Military Friendly® Spouse Employer designations, representing the top tier of institutions who provide the best opportunities for military service members and spouses. “At Athene, we believe that our service members have the leadership skills and values that are transferable to our business which can help drive our success. That’s why we are
Wright Tree Service Appoints Wade Myers as President
The Wright Service Corp. Board of Directors has appointed 34 -year industry leader Wade Myers as president of Wright Tree Service. Promoted from the position of senior vice president of operations, Wade will continue to focus on the company’s mission of safety and operational excellence while bringing a wealth of leadership experience and passion for the industry. He will continue to work from the corporate headquarters in West Des Moines, Iowa. Wade joined WTS as a groundworker in 1987. He advanced
National Million Women Mentors Summit Inspires
Million Women Mentors successfully hosted the National MWM Virtual Summit on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 for over 500 registered attendees. With a myriad of inspiring speakers, the attendees were able to hear about different initiatives currently going on locally, as well as success stories from many of the global partners. Million Women Mentors (MWM) is an initiative of STEMconnector to spark the interest and confidence in women and girls to pursue STEM careers and leadership opportunities through the
Eide Bailly 2021 Webinar Series
Evaluating Employee Ownership as an Exit Strategy or Growth StrategyIf you’re a business owner evaluating your options for growth, business succession or exit, employee ownership and ESOP can have notable benefits for you, your employees and your community. Read More How COVID-19 is Impacting the Potential Sale of Your BusinessMergers and acquisitions have always been part of the history of corporate America. Now, more than ever, the market stands poised to help organizations navigate through economic
VERNICE “FLYGIRL” ARMOUR ANNOUNCED FOR 2021 CENTRAL IOWA CONFERENCE
DES MOINES, Iowa - America’s first Black female combat pilot, former Marine, author and consultant, Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour will headline the 2021 Women Lead Change Central Iowa Conference on Oct. 27-28, 2021, at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. Virtual registration is open until Oct. 22 at https://www.wlcglobal.org/events/2021-central-iowa-conference.Vernice “Flygirl” Armour replaces previously announced closing keynote speaker Luvvie Ajayi Jones.A gutsy trailblazer, her resume is an impressive
WDM CHAMBER PROMOTES MATHESON TO SENIOR DIRECTOR OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2021) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is excited to announce that Kara Matheson has been promoted to senior director of workforce development effective immediately. Prior to this promotion, Matheson served in two different roles with the WDM Chamber as the director of workforce development and as the events and marketing communications manager. Matheson will celebrate her third year with the WDM Chamber on September 25.“Kara is a highly
Export Finance: Solutions and Resources for Exporters
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Live-Work-Playbooks: West Des Moines
Vila-Nova Mitchell to lead DEI Impact at IMT Insurance
WEST DES MOINES, IOWA, September 7, 2021 —Gilmara Vila-Nova Mitchell has joined IMT Insurance as director of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The new position will be instrumental as IMT moves forward with its commitment to integrating DEI into every aspect of the company’s core and culture. For the past two decades, Vila-Nova Mitchell has helped organizations become more inclusive through her engaging DEI sessions, transformative executive coaching, and innovative systems redesign. Through her
AMERICA’S SBDC IOWA ANNOUNCES NEW SHOP SOONER INITIATIVE
AMES, Iowa – America’s SBDC Iowa is excited to announce their new Shop Sooner initiative that encourages consumers to “Shop Sooner” before the holidays to help alleviate some of the supply chain and other issues that businesses face during the holiday season and are still being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are extremely excited to launch this campaign and to try to help businesses alleviate some of the disruptions they experience during the holiday season. We understand that small businesses
Inspired Perspectives Tips and Tools for Continued Success
MAKE 2021 YOUR YEAR By getting your mind focused on growth and success through our informational and educational webinars designed to keep our clients, colleagues and friends informed on innovative business and tax strategies. The tools and resources presented will help businesses and individuals make informed decisions and remain successful and compliant in a competitive marketplace.Sept. 8 Data Analytics in Internal Audit: The information that can be found from analyzed data trends can help you
Glen Meadows Retirement Community to Host Groundbreaking Ceremony August 25
Ceremony to begin at 11:00 a.m. 1401 Glen Oaks Drive, West Des Moines, IA West Des Moines, IA – Resort Lifestyle Communities (RLC) invites the business community in West Des Moines and surrounding areas to celebrate the groundbreaking of its unique all-inclusive resort-style independent living retirement community at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 25 at Glen Oaks Country Club in West Des Moines. Glen Meadows representatives, chamber members, and local dignitaries will speak during a short program. Local
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New Chief Underwriting Officer at Merchants Bonding Company David Hewett moving from Marsh to Merchants
The managing director of largest surety broker in North America will become the new chief underwriting officer at Merchants Bonding Company. Merchants’ board of directors approved the addition of David Hewett as CUO and member of the executive committee at its meeting Tuesday. Hewett will officially join Merchants in mid-September. “David will assume leadership of our underwriting departments and bring new perspectives and energy to enhance our culture, serving associates and our agent partners,” said
Groundbreaking Glen Meadows Retirement Community
Des Moines-Based ServiceMaster by Rice Included in National Disaster Recovery Network Expansion
ServiceMaster by Rice was announced this week as part of a major expansion of the ServiceMaster Recovery Management (SRM) network. SRM is a national leader in large-loss commercial disaster remediation and restoration. The SRM expansion more than doubles the size of the network, from 9 to 21 approved providers nationwide. Applicants for the network had to meet stringent requirements involving experience in commercial loss recovery projects, equipment, staffing and capabilities. “Achieving the SRM brand
