Fort Dodge Today Magazine

From The Managing Editor,

Looking back through the archives, the May issue has alternated between emphasizing Mother’s Day, Memorial Day and graduation as the main theme or cover story. Last year’s stories which lifted up veterans who served had profound impact on my own life. In getting to know a bit better the two men who were featured I gained a new perspective and appreciation for the men and women who have made great sacrifices for the freedom we all enjoy. It was timely because one of those veterans, Marold Miller (the World War II veteran who was one of the first Marines onto Iwo Jima) has since passed away.

Miller’s passing this winter reminded me how fleeting life can be. That’s why we are highlighting one of May’s lesser-know observances this year: Historical Preservation Month. If you’ve ever wondered about how or why buildings and other structures are put onto the National Register of Historic Places, Roger Natte’s article will tell you. You might be surprised to learn which buildings are already on it. Maybe you have ideas in addition to those Roger lists for others.

Another May observation is Arthritis Awareness Month. Our healthWISE article from the Arthritis Foundation can shed some light on the umbrella term “arthritis” and will help to dispel some popular myths about the diseases. Be sure to consider taking part in the local arthritis walk right here in Fort Dodge on April 26th at 8:00 at Kennedy Park.

As for personal, local stories May brings you the opportunity to meet Judy Champa of Fort Dodge, Sheila Bennett of Ottosen, and Ruth Jesse from Pomeroy.

Judy Champa is the local GOD’s CHILD program volunteer who coordinates groups of local volunteers who help orphaned, abandoned, and poverty-stricken children and families in Guatemala and Africa.

Sheila Bennett is a jewelry maker whose artistic creations don wrists, necks and ears of women and girls across the state and beyond.

Ruth Jesse had the opportunity to do what many of us will only dream about: travel to China. You’ll enjoy reading about her 2006 trip to the Far East.

For those of you who carry on the tradition of spring cleaning we offer some tips on making your own natural and non-toxic cleaning supplies. You’ll be surprised how easy and effective it can be and potentially save quite a bit of money too!

As to the traditional May observations: For all the mothers out there, we wish you a very Happy Mother’s Day! To all the veterans I say a personal word of thanks and will be thinking of you this Memorial Day. To all the graduates - Congratulations on a job well done!

Kim Helmick
Manging Editor, Fort Dodge Today