To the editor:

A quick thank you to the people of Fort Dodge. I have just returned from a weekend trip to your city. May I say, Fort Dodge has it going in the right direction. The Hawkeye Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club spent June 18-20 touring in and around Fort Dodge. What a great time we had.

The Guido van Helton Silo Mural was worth the trip by itself! I am a car guy not a art person, but the detail on that painting is unbelievable. Grain silos are a necessary evil in Iowa. I have never seen any the least bit attractive until now. You have a nice little parking lot there. Maybe some seating, or better yet something to lean back against and take it in. I have heard it said art touches people, and this piece of art sure touched me.

It is complemented well by the solitude and somberness of Veterans Memorial Park. We were lucky enough to have Terry Moehnke speak to our group about the start and progress of the park. Let me give you some great advice Fort Dodge, do not let this guy leave town! The space he and other volunteers have created for reflection and respect tugs at one’s heart strings.

My 11-year -old loved the Fort Museum. The ride through Dolliver Park was scenic. The Tonka Toys and shoes and boots on the fence posts were whimsical. The OHV park looked really cool. I loved the Iowa Hall of Fame and Racing Museum! The locally owned restaurants, bar& grills we ate at all had great atmosphere and food. There was some art work down town I saw driving by.

I am sure there is work to do. All towns and cities have areas that need improvement. My family had a great time. You should all be proud of Fort Dodge.

Gary Thoren

Vice President

Hawkeye Chapter Studebaker Drivers Club