A journal of history?

I never intended for CITYVIEW to be a journal of history. I still don’t. We tend to focus much of our editorial efforts on things that are going to happen rather than things that already have happened. Even so, we all must have some idea of where we have been in order to determine where we are going. As such, I found this month’s cover story on the trailblazers who built Des Moines to be a fascinating read. Jim Duncan pitched the idea to me with an initial focus on the buildings that define Des Moines, but the theme changed as the story progressed. A ferryman. A rail baron. A swashbuckler. A chief. These four individuals helped shape Des Moines in different ways and in different times, creating the structure for the city we know and love today. Did others have similar or greater impacts? Possibly, and this feature may spur additional stories down the road. 

Spirit in a bottle

When Iowa farmers wanted to pour a stiff drink, a liter of Black Velvet was often soon in hand. As such, the blended Canadian whisky was the top-selling liquor in Iowa for many years, and not just for farmers. But, in the last few years, the title has changed, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka has become the new king. Times change, and so do liquor trends. Dark liquors. Light liquors. Flavored liquors. Brands get hot. And then not. Even so, Black Velvet remains a strong seller in Iowa and likely will for years to come. 

Beers, seltzers and ciders have seen change, too, some based on new flavors and others on political influences. Any way you pour it, though, you will find alcoholic beverages in Iowa that are trendy and tropical and others that are tried and true. Be sure to check out Cyote Williams’ feature on liquor trends in this issue. 

Employing seniors

Talk to most any small business owner or manager, and you will be told that hiring isn’t easy. Although it never has been, when the pickings are slimmer, the odds of finding that “right” employee becomes more difficult. Throw in the frequent job changes that many of our younger generations partake in, and hiring becomes a seemingly never-ending task. 

In this month’s business feature, Colson Thayer interviews several small business owners who have found the value in hiring those of an older generation. They share their insights on the opportunities that are available for those who are hiring to seek out those who aren’t quite ready for retirement. 

As always, I thank you for reading. ♦

Shane Goodman 
Editor and Publisher
CITYVIEW
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.dmcityview.com