News
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
WEST DES MONES, IA (MARCH 20) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the 2023-24 program. The West Des Moines Leadership Program is designed to help aspiring leaders develop their leadership skills and capabilities to make a positive impact on the community. The Leadership Academy is an intensive nine-month program that provides participants with practical training, hands-on experience, and
FAREWAY HOSTS RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY FOR NEW WEST DES MOINES STORE ON MILLS
Fareway Stores, Inc. hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony today for a new store located at 9080 Mills Civic Parkway in West Des Moines. The 21,00 square foot store provides for a full-service butcher counter and the highest level of customer service. An impressive grocery selection, with fresh-cut produce, healthy varieties, and locally sourced items, in addition to a variety of craft beer, fine wines, and top-shelf spirits will be available. The store will provide for Fastlanes, a self-service checkout option,
Drake University announces $3.15 million philanthropic commitment from Sammons Financial Group
The gift will support the construction of an Intercultural Center, priority scholarships (DES MOINES, Iowa—February 23, 2023) Drake University announced today that Sammons Financial Group® has committed $3.15 million to Drake to support the development of the Sammons Intercultural Center and Sammons Plaza, along with support for two scholarship funds that will create a total of 14 endowed scholarships. Beginning in 2024, Drake will use $1.75 million of the Sammons Financial Group gift to renovate
WDM Chamber Announces Keynote, Mentors for Sixth Annual Mentoring for Women Event
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is proud to announce its keynote speaker and mentors for its sixth annual Mentoring for Women Conference in partnership with the Clive Chamber of Commerce. The event will take place on March 8th from 7:00am – 11:00am at The Rewind Hotel in West Des Moines, Iowa featuring keynote speaker Renee Hardman - Chief Diversity Equity Inclusion Officer & Vice President of Human Resources, Broadlawns Medical Center
WDM Chamber Announces 2023 Citizen, Emerging Citizen of the Year Nominations are Now Open
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, FEB 7, 2023) – For the 78th 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 nominations are now open through March 8, 2023.“This is the longest running program within the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce,” said Katherine Harrington, President & CEO of the Chamber. “As we lead up to our 100-year anniversary in 2024, this award is more important than ever.”Over the
Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics Spine Expert Lynn Nelson, MD Seeing Patients In Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa (January 31, 2023) – Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics is pleased to announce that Dr. Lynn Nelson, Spine Surgeon, will begin seeing patients in its Iowa Weight Loss Specialists Des Moines location. Dr. Nelson is an Iowa native who joined Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics in 2020. He was previously with DMOS Orthopedic Centers after completing his fellowship training at Kansas University Medical Center in the treatment of spinal injuries and disorders. Over the past 28 years, Dr.
2023 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition presented by Bank of America Now Accepting Applications
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is accepting applications starting Wednesday February 1 for the 2023 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (BBBS) pitch competition, brought to you by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of America. Deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, 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
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces New Team Members
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 1, 2023WEST DES MONES, IA (WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is proud to announce three new team members joining the organization: Tiffany Piper, Richard Salas, and Everett Mullican.Tiffany Piper joined as the WDM Chamber’s events & experiences coordinator. She has an extensive background in event planning including experience as sales & events services manager at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Des Moines, vice president of
Call for Applications: Nonprofit Organizations Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Fundraiser 2023
WEST DES MONES, IA (THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announced that applications are now open through January 27, 2023, for nonprofit 501©3 organizations who help to support social justice programming in Greater Des Moines Iowa. Fundraising efforts held in conjunction with the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (the Athene Summit): Get ACTIVE for the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (Get ACTIVE Fundraiser). Bike, walk, run, or get active the week
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced its 2023 Board of Directors, a diverse group of leaders that will guide, serve, and shape the WDM Chamber and West Des Moines community. “Our 2023 Board of Directors is made up of key leaders in our city and region who represent a wide range of industries and businesses from small, medium, and large.” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of
Lay a Strong Foundation for Your Des Moines Business's 2023
The fourth quarter is upon us, which means it's time to start wrapping up the year and preparing for the next one. For small businesses, that means taking stock of what you've accomplished this year, setting new goals for next year, and planning your holiday marketing strategy. It also means reviewing your inventory, accounting, and tax paperwork, as well as making sure your website and social media profiles are up to date. From the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, here's a rundown of what you need to
WDM Chamber’s Tom Florian Honored as 2022 ACCE 40 Under 40 Recipient
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2022) – West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Senior Director of Membership and Strategic Marketing, Tom Florian, was named a 2022 40 Under 40 honoree by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) on Monday, November 21, 2022. The program recognizes the top emerging leaders in the chamber of commerce industry who have demonstrated success in their careers and made significant contributions in the communities they represent. “Tom is a rising star who is
WEST DES MOINES NAMED 2022 TECHNOLOGY COMMUNITY OF THE YEAR
WEST DES MONES, IA (FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022) – West Des Moines, Iowa has been named 2022 Technology Community of the Year by the Technology Association of Iowa (TAI). The recognition was revealed at the 2022 Prometheus Awards presented by UHY LLP, Certified Public Accountants on Thursday, November 3, 2022 at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center Ballroom in Des Moines, IA. Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, presented the award. The qualifications for the
Six Methods to Encourage Better Collaboration and Communication in Your West Des Moines, IA Small Business
Good collaboration and communication are essential for any business, but they're especially important for small businesses. When everyone is on the same page and working together toward a common goal, amazing things can happen. But when communication breaks down, it can have a ripple effect that negatively impacts every area of the business. Encouraging open communication and idea sharing, encouraging cross-team collaboration, not micromanaging people, seeking regular feedback from staff, using
VOTING FOR WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE THIRD ANNUAL BEST OF THE WEST AWARDS PRESENTED BY AUREON SET TO OPEN OCTOBER 1
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) will open voting for the third Annual Best of the West Awards presented by Aureon on October 1. The Best of the West Awards is a West Des Moines-focused, community vote contest featuring 50 categories. “We are thrilled to launch the third annual Best of the West Awards presented by Aureon,” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber. “This is one of our favorite programs and we
Alice Jensen Honored by Iowa Bankers Association for 50 Years of Service
Jensen one of 24 bankers to receive IBA 50-Year Banker designation September 23, 2022 – Alice Jensen of West Bank, West Des Moines, was recently honored by the Iowa Bankers Association for more than 50 years of service at a bank. The award was presented to Jensen during the IBA Annual Convention on Tuesday, Sept. 20, in Des Moines. Jensen was one of 24 individuals recognized for reaching the 50-year service milestone. “Each year, it’s amazing to hear these bankers’ stories of dedication to their
RECIPIENTS OF 2022 WDM CHAMBER DEI EXCELLENCE AWARDS ANNOUNCED
WEST DES MONES, IA (MONDAY, AUGUST 15, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is holding its second annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workplace Excellence Awards (DEI Awards) on September 1 from 4:30 – 7:30 PM at the Community Choice Convention Center. It will be a night full of learning, growing and celebrating the work being done to make Central Iowa more inclusive. Award recipients of 10 categories will be honored, have the chance to share their story to inspire others, and
MHCS Announces Appointment of New Shareholder
WEST DES MOINES, IOWA (JULY 18, 2022) - MHCS, a certified public accounting and business advisory firm, announces the promotion of Nick Finkenauer, CPA from Tax Principal to Shareholder. Nick joined MHCS in November 2012 and leads the Construction and Real Estate practice. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Nick specializes in partnership taxation, state and local tax (SALT), and closely held businesses. He is originally from Sherrill, Iowa and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa
SHIVE-HATTERY ACQUIRES KdG ARCHITECTS St. Louis Acquisition Grows its Metropolitan Presence in Midwest
Cedar Rapids, Iowa (July 22, 2022) – Shive-Hattery announces that it has acquired KdG Architects, a 20-person architecture, engineering and interior design firm in St. Louis, Missouri. Positioning itself in one of the major metropolitan areas in the Midwest, the St. Louis acquisition further deepens Shive-Hattery’s reach in the regional and national markets while strengthening its design capabilities for hospitality, gaming, commercial and government clients. “KdG Architects’ strong national portfolio in
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Recognized at 2022 ACCE Annual Convention
WEST DES MONES, IA (THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2022) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) attended the 2022 Annual Convention hosted by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) July 26-29, 2022. The WDM Chamber was recognized as a finalist for the 2022 Chamber of the Year award, presented by 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
IowaWORKS.gov Website Restored, Job and Work Search Services Resume
DES MOINES – The IowaWORKS.gov website that was recently impacted by a website outage has been restored, Iowa Workforce Development announced. The outage, caused by a cyberattack on third-party vendor Geographic Solutions Inc. (GSI), was resolved after close coordination between GSI and the state. Iowans can utilize the IowaWORKS.gov website to search for a new job and record their work search activities. The delivery of unemployment benefit payments was not impacted by the outage, but the need for
Iowa Workforce Development Awards Over $3.6 Million to Grow and Expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs Across Iowa
DES MOINES – Iowa Workforce Development announced it has awarded over $3.6 million in funding designated to create or expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs across Iowa. Benefiting both employers and high schools, Registered Apprenticeship Programs are a critical tool for building new workforce pipelines in high-demand fields and allowing young Iowans to earn while they learn. The state’s support of these programs is provided through the Iowa Apprenticeship Act (15B) and the Iowa Registered
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
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
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,