News

Smith named executive director of finance for UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge

UnityPoint Health — Trinity Regional Medical Center announced AJ Smith as the executive director of finance. “AJ brings extensive experience in health care finance, business transformation and strategic planning,” said Leah Glasgo, president of UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge. “In his role, AJ will partner closely with our senior leadership to drive financial performance, strategic planning and operational excellence.” Smith most recently served as director of business transformation at Mary Greely Medical Center in Ames. He also works as an adjunct professor at the ...

The making of America’s first president

Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of 12 weekly stories focusing on America’s 250th birthday, as told through the lens of our communities and the role many of the places we call home played in shaping the nation before, during and after the Revolutionary War. This week we ...

Deuel named March Employee of the Month at UnityPoint Health

Kia Deuel, infection prevention coordinator in Quality Improvement, was named the March Employee of the Month at UnityPoint Health — Trinity Regional Medical Center. Deuel was nominated by Jacquelynn Lawrence, accreditation and performance improvement specialist, for her commitment to quality and for the wealth of knowledge she shares with others. “During major projects, Kia ensures each person involved is seen and heard,” Lawrence said. “She goes out of her way to support any organizational needs and has been instrumental in timely responses to events.” Lawrence says ...

Soldier Creek plans more bubbly wine

Soldier Creek Winery plans to increase its production of bubbly wines and hard cider. A recently awarded state grant will help the Webster County business pay for the machine that will enable it to do that. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship gave the winery a ...

Go Big, Go Dodgers

Kent named to wealth advisors honor

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Ryan Kent, of Fort Dodge, was named among the 2026 Best in State Wealth Advisors in Iowa by Forbes|SHOOK. This is his fourth time being named to this ranking. Kent has served area investors for 10 years. “I am honored to receive this recognition,” he said in a written statement. “Our priority is to be a trusted, hands-on resource for clients as they make important financial decisions.”