One of the things I enjoy at a county or state fair is perusing the area with all the information vendors. To me, the fun is in discovering something new or novel. I enjoy learning and will often stop to chat with the people who sit at the tables. Not only do I find interesting new items or ideas, I often come away with a free yardstick, flyswatter or other give-away item.
Fort Dodge residents have the chance to enjoy a similar fair-like atmosphere on August 3 for National Night Out. National Night Out, together with the Back-To-School Bash, is an evening of games, information, demonstrations, food, music and moreall centered on safety issues and strengthening our community. See what the fun is about in photos from last year's event and plan to attend. Details are in the cover feature article this month.
August is the month when families prepare to send children of all ages back to school. Robert Wolf brings us the story of the youth from First Presbyterian Church who have had a busy summer serving in some urban ministry settings in St. Louis, Missouri. Fort Dodge Today found some great school supplies to fill your student's backpack with. Check them out in the photo montage on page 39.
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The Webster County Health Department reminds everyone that back-to-school might mean it's time for immunizations or booster shots. This month's Health Wise article brings you details of the clinics they will be offering.
Finally, Amanda Helmick found one Iowa Central student who's happy to be coming "home" to Fort Dodge for school. Meet Tiffany Terwilliger in this month's ICCC Student Spotlight.
If summer has a few more outings in store for you, especially those which might involve a potluck, Fort Dodge Today scoured some local church cookbooks in search of popular dishes to take along. We think you'll enjoy these favorites from St. Olaf Lutheran, First Congregational and First Covenant churches here in Fort Dodge.
Fort Dodge schools (public and parochial) resume classes on Tuesday, August 24th. Don't forget Iowa's upcoming "Tax Free Holiday" on August 6th and 7th when many of the things you need for heading back to school will be tax-free. Please shop local retailers!
Enjoy the rest of your summer!