Thursday evening an event took place that was a good deal more than just a social occasion.

More than 350 community leaders gathered at the Best Western Starlite Village Inn & Suites for food and camaraderie at the annual meeting of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance.

A major focus of the event was the vigorous economic growth that is taking place in our community through the collaboration of a wide array of private and public sector groups. The collective goal is to build a strong economic future for Fort Dodge and the surrounding communities.

The Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance is an effort to unify and coordinate economic and community development efforts to enhance the quality of life in Fort Dodge and the region. The promise this partnering holds for the future is truly exciting.

The slower than desired economic recovery nationally is on everyone’s mind. It’s important to recognize, however, that business trends locally are much more positive than in many other locales. Significant strides are being made in building a prosperous future for Fort Dodge and the nearby communities. The stage has been set to accomplish dramatic additional progress in the years just ahead.

The Growth Alliance reflects a spirit that is becoming evident throughout the community as planning for tomorrow proceeds – cooperation. That sense of common purpose is rapidly turning what were once just dreams into tangible realities.

The master of ceremonies for the evening was Dennis Plautz, chief executive officer of the Growth Alliance.

Deborah Durham, who has been the director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority since 2011, was the keynote speaker. Her upbeat message made it clear that in the Hawkeye State generally and in Webster County in particular there are strong reasons to be bullish about the business climate.

As is customary at these annual meetings, the recipient of the prestigious Catalyst Award was announced. Kraig Barber, market president of First State Bank, is this year’s winner. The award recognizes citizens who contribute to the betterment of the community.

The Messenger congratulates Barber on this well-deserved recognition.

An additional highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards recognizing the enormous contribution small businesses make to the local economy. Each year the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance honors at least two such businesses. A Small Business of the Year is selected. A business, established within the last five years, is deemed the Rookie of the Year.

Abstract Associates of Webster County, 822 Central Ave., was named the Small Business of the Year. It is owned by Ted Hugghins and Jerry Schnurr III.

There were two recipients of the Rookie of the Year Award: Modern Day Floral by Kristin, 1414 Central Ave., owned by Kristin Kenyon and Faiferlick Martial Arts, 567 S. 25th St., owned by Justin and Deann Faiferlick.

Businesses given these awards must demonstrate a unique marketing strategy, excellent corporate citizenship, create new jobs and have a plan for long-term growth and survival.

Additionally, Darcy Kaufman was announced as the winner of the Alliance’s photo contest.

The Messenger congratulates the winners on their accomplishments. Their successes help this community thrive.

To move forward, a town needs citizens willing to expend the energy and make the sacrifices necessary to build a stronger, more vibrant community. Fort Dodge is blessed with an uncommonly large number of people who are committed to a better tomorrow for their hometown. Many of them were present Thursday evening. The Messenger applauds their commitment to this community’s future.