Wildman

“Our town, our people” is a weekly Q&A with a local resident who is active in the community. Have a suggestion for someone we should talk to? Email news@timerepublican.com

Kara Wildman is owner of Happy Tails Pet Grooming, Boarding and Day Care. She has lived in Marshalltown 17 years.

Q: What are you passionate about?

I’ve always been passionate about being a business owner and when in college, I didn’t know what kind of business owner I wanted to be. I thought about going into photography but ultimately, dogs. Animals and pet care got me moving.”

Q: What community activities do you participate in?

I love all the downtown events, like Oktemberfest and the art fair, but I have really become involved with the Animal Rescue League’s annual auction, “Whiskers Wine and Something Divine.” I was on the committee for the first five years, and my business became so busy in recent years I’ve had to step back and just be a sponsor. However, I really love fundraising.”

Q: What do you enjoy about this community?

The people, seeing all the good. It always gives me goosebumps when I participate in fundraisers and not just ARL fundraisers, I’ve done fundraisers for individuals with either unexpected disabilities or hospital stays that they didn’t anticipate. I’ve helped with a few individual fundraisers and seeing the number of people that will blindly write a check to someone they’ve never met because they feel they’re a worthy cause. That makes you feel good about Marshalltown. When the tornado happened, I put one post on Facebook about dropping off dog food (to our business). Then, within days, we had not only dog food but money to buy dog food.

Q: What changes do you feel need to be made in the community?

I think we have a great community of people that come out and do it. We need to keep coming out and actually get personal with each other … maybe get off our phones a little more often. One thinks you’re being more involved, but actually one is not.

Q: What advice would you pass on to young people?

Work ethic. Be on time, be respectful, and show up ready to work. When one enters the workforce, being driven will get one a lot farther than just doing the minimum to get by.

Q: What is your favorite Marshalltown activity?

I love the annual Oktemberfest celebration, because the kids have enjoyed the race and parade.

Q: What social activity or event would you like to see come Marshalltown and why?

“Paint N’ Sip” parties, where artists organize people to paint and sip wine. I think we should do that on the Courthouse Square, and paint the Courthouse as it’s under construction.