Five candidates running for three seats on the LPA board of directors.
By Susan Thompson | Lake Panoraam Times
The 56th annual meeting of the Lake Panorama Association is Saturday, May 10 beginning at 10 a.m. at the Lake Panorama National Resort clubhouse. Each year, the LPA annual meeting provides a formal statement of the association’s financial position, plus reports on activities during the past year and plans for the coming year.
Reports will be given by David Finneseth, LPA board president; Dennis Flanery, LPA board treasurer; and John Rutledge, LPA general manager.
An official announcement of the meeting will be sent to all LPA members in mid-April. Included in this mailing will be a ballot, plus a numbered envelope in which to return the ballot. Ballots must be returned in the numbered envelopes to ensure ballot authenticity. If an envelope is lost, contact the LPA office for a replacement.
On the ballot this year are five candidates running for three seats on the LPA board of directors. Dirk Westercamp is completing his first three-year term on the board and is not running again this year. Dennis Flanery and Mark Jorgensen are completing their first term and running for reelection to the LPA board. Gary Geels, Keith Ketcham and Steven Sidman have filed papers with the LPA and are running for a first term on the board.
Members are asked to deliver or mail their completed ballot in the numbered envelope to the LPA office before Friday, May 9. This allows the majority of the ballots to be counted in advance of the annual meeting. Ballots also can be brought to the annual meeting.
LPA bylaws require each board candidate to provide a 100-word statement. This year’s candidate statements are printed here in alphabetical order. In mid-April, additional information provided by each candidate will be distributed via email to those who are signed up to receive official LPA emails.
Dennis Flanery
Dennis Flanery
“Our family has had a home at Lake Panorama since 1985. I am completing my first term on the LPA Board, currently serving as treasurer. I spent 38 years in banking and switching careers, I am now the foundation director for Guthrie County Hospital. I have held officer/board positions for the GC Development Group, Guthrie Activity Center, Timber Creek Charities, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, GC Lions Club, GC Chamber, Midwest Partnership and the Panora Development Group. Our three children live and work in the Des Moines area. My wife, Diane, recently retired as elementary principal for the ACGC Schools.”
Gary Geels
Gary Geels
“I was born and raised in Sully and later graduated from Calvin College. I spent 42 years in the retirement planning sector, working with Principal, Wells Fargo and Bankers Trust. I have been married to my wife Susan for 46 years. We have three married daughters and five grandchildren. We made Lake Panorama our full-time home in 2009 and appreciate the quality of life Lake Panorama offers. I have served on various community and church boards and currently serve on LPA’s building codes committee. I would be honored to serve on the board and contribute to LPA’s continued success.”
Mark Jorgensen
Mark Jorgensen
“My first three years on the LPA board have been educational, challenging and full of some serious problems to solve. Our board has had to navigate several financial issues by looking at cuts and price increases. Just recently we have filled the restaurant management position with a great option that will start next month. My accounting and business ownership experience gives me a good foundation to solve our problems. I am also very active with our community. Two way communication gives me great perspective into what is important. I would like to ask for your vote. Thank you.”
Keith Ketcham
Keith Ketcham
“As a dedicated member of the Lake Panorama community, I am committed to preserving the charm and beauty that make our community a well-kept secret while ensuring responsible financial decisions for future generations. I will work to balance progress with sustainability, ensuring Lake Panorama remains a place our children, grandchildren and beyond cherish.
“With nearly 15 years of experience as a business development manager at HNI and as a Young Friends of Mercy Executive Board Member, I bring strong business acumen and a strategic approach to decision-making. I would be honored to serve and protect what makes Lake Panorama special.”
Steven Sidman
Steven Sidman
“I am honored to submit my candidacy for the Lake Panorama Association Board of Directors. A member of the LPA since 2016, I have served on the Water Safety Committee and co-hosted the Water Safety Video with my wife, Krista. I have 20-plus years at Wells Fargo in risk management, customer service and data, as well as hold certifications in Six Sigma, Agile Project Management, and Data and Analytics. I bring an extensive background in strategic planning and problem-solving expertise. I am committed to preserving and enhancing our community, and I welcome the opportunity to contribute and appreciate your consideration.”
