Midwest Partnership Economic Development Corporation (EDC) recently recognized Dennis Flanery, of Guthrie Center, with the Guy Powell Award for his contributions to the community and organizations he supports. The award was presented at the organization’s annual dinner meeting on January 24th, in Panora.

The Guy Powell Award was established in honor of the late Guy Powell of Greenfield, who served as president of the Midwest Partnership EDC board of directors and was an active volunteer in several other community organizations.  It is intended to recognize excellence in leadership and passion for economic development in the Midwest Partnership EDC region, taking into account vision, leadership, courage, and impact.

Dennis Flanery was nominated for his leadership as President of the Guthrie Center Area Economic Development Corporation, as well as for his vision for the Guthrie Activity Center.  The organization said “Dennis is very active in pursuing potential leads, as well as discussing business retention opportunities with Guthrie Center’s existing businesses.  His work has provided a nearly-full downtown business area.  He has also aided in the retention of a couple of businesses who had opportunities to leave the area.”

It was also noted that, “A couple of years ago, Dennis had the vision of restoring the exterior Guthrie Activity Center to look similar to that of 50+ years ago, providing a consistent downtown façade, as well as remodeling the interior of the building to maximize space for social utilization in an effort to draw consumers and businesses to Guthrie Center.  He stepped forward to lead the project and established a team with a similar shared vision and passion for this goal.  The capital campaign Dennis and his team spear-headed is proving to be very successful and nearing its full goal. ”

Other highlights from MP-EDC’s annual dinner included recognizing outgoing board members Brett Irlmeier of Audubon, John Rutledge of Panora, and Warren Varley of Stuart for their dedication and service to the organization over the years.  Irlmeier served on the Midwest Partnership Board for 8 years, Rutledge 10 years, and Varley served for 12 years.  Scott Tonderum of Greenfield was elected President of the organization for 2019.  Sarah Gomez, Executive Director, provided a recap of the year, and those in attendance had the opportunity to hear from the evening’s guest speaker, Hernan Etcheto, CEO and Owner of Nutriom, in Panora.

Midwest Partnership EDC is the non-profit, collaborative economic development organization formed to strengthen the economic vitality of the communities of Adair, Audubon, Greene, and Guthrie counties in west central Iowa.