To the editor:

On Oct. 15, Linking Families and Communities presented “KIDZMANIA, A Fun Family Adventure” at the Crossroads Mall. This was the fourth KIDZMANIA held by Linking Families and Communities, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to young children and their families. The organization’s purpose is to empower parents in raising happy, healthy children by providing families with education and support through programs and by coordinating community resources. KIDZMANIA certainly fit the mission as it showcased local businesses and services available in a fun festival atmosphere.

KIDZMANIA had something for everyone. Over 1,200 children engaged in activities and learned about local businesses and services. They also enjoyed meeting Herky the Hawkeye, Cy the Cyclone as well as popular movie characters. Children and parents alike had fun experiencing the ISU Insect Zoo, Science Center of Iowa, Bluedorn Science Imaginarium and several Iowa State STEM booths. Thanks to all who attended the event.

As with anything, there is so much that goes on behind the scenes to make KIDZMANIA successful. I would like to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the committee members who worked hard to plan and carryout the event. Committee members included: Joe Kuhlman, Amy Bruno, Joy Thoma, Andrea Harrison, Jamie Ferguson, Gina Cone and Paul Gibbins. Thanks to the Crossroads Mall for hosting the event, all of the businesses and organizations that provided fun activities and information in an effort to support and assist the families of our community, as well as those providing entertainment. Thank you to Fort Dodge Senior High Cheer Squad, Golden Kiwanis, Rusty McNeil, St. Edmond Cheer Squad and to the many volunteers that helped things to run smoothly.

Our community is very fortunate that local businesses are involved and supporting efforts aimed at making children, families and the community stronger. I wish to thank the United Way of Greater Fort Dodge, Central Iowa STEM Region, Iowa Central Community College, Boehringer-Ingelheim, Tjaden Electric, Casey’s General Store, The Rec, UnityPoint Health, Valero Renewables, Cargill, Kemna Auto of Fort Dodge, C&S Products, Fort Frenzy, La’ James International College, Amerigroup, Papa Murphy’s, Electronic Engineering, Huseman Chiropractic Clinic, Spin Markket and Creative Signs & Graphics for your generous support and sponsorship. The commitment of these business to the children and families of our community is nothing short of amazing.

Elizabeth Stanek

Linking Families

and Communities

Fort Dodge