Fort Dodge Today Magazine

From The Managing Editor,

My how time flies It was with the July issue last year that the new look of Fort Dodge Today started. It is difficult to believe twelve months, and twelve issues, have passed. Some of our writers have gone on to other ventures. This has meant some features have come and gone. It has also given us the opportunity to try new things.

This month we are tweaking the contents just a tad once more. For many years the magazine has offered readers a “how-to” article. When we reformatted the layout, this article became part of our “The Good Life” section. For the next few months this article is being replaced by a new series called “My Hometown.” The article will highlight one of the surrounding communities each month. I am pleased to kick off this new series with our friendly neighbors to the north: Humboldt. I am also looking forward to exploring other communities and discovering what makes living in them terrific.

For many people across our great state, July is the month when bicycling comes to the center of the stage. Our cover feature this month is all about the Dodger Cyclists. This is a club full of folks who ride every day and are anxious to spread the cycling lifestyle. Many of them have ridden across Iowa more than once. When they’re not cycling, you might spot them kayaking on area creeks, rivers or lakes. (Or, if there is snow everywhere, cross-country skiing ) Perhaps you’ll be inspired to hop on a bike and join the group for their beginner rides on Wednesday evenings. Details can be found inside.

This month Robert Wolf introduces us to Arnold Clausen of Fort Dodge. Clausen served in WWII and has kept serving ever since. You can read about the many ways Clausen gives of himself in this month’s volunteer spotlight. Tom Atwood visited with Kathy Messerly, a local artist whose inspiration comes straight from nature. Messerly casts her art using leaves she has collected. Those who love outdoor adventures will be drawn to Tom’s travel spotlight this month. Tom met Brad Banwart from Ottosen who followed the call of the wild to Canada with his son in search of luring in a great catch. Look inside to find out what they caught

Pour yourself a cold beverage, find a shady spot and enjoy the issue. Drop us a line and let us know what you think and how we’re doing. You can find us on the web at www.fdtoday.com. Thanks for reading

Kim Helmick
Manging Editor, Fort Dodge Today