The Business Connection - June 2016

The Business Connection

June 2016

Inside Eat. Drink. & Be Marion.

Main Street Iowa   Back by popular demand, Uptown Marion
Celebrates 30 Years will host its second annual Eat. Drink. & Be
Marion: Food & Pub Crawl Fundraiser on
Page 4 Thursday, July 14, 2016, from 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. 
  Enjoy a night out on the town for a good
Economic cause! With your ticket, you will receive
Development Week a complementary glass and exclusive
deals from participating businesses in the
Page 10 Uptown Marion District. Also, enjoy live
entertainment and extended shopping hours
Fiesta Block Party as you walk or crawl to each participating
Turns 20 establishment.
  Tickets are $25 per person ($45 for
Page 12 couples) and can be purchased online at
www.uptownmarion.com or in the Uptown
Marion Office (1225 6th Ave, STE 100,
Marion, IA 52302). Proceeds benefit the
ongoing revitalization and beautification
efforts of Uptown Marion - A Main Street
Iowa District. For more information, call
319-743-4726.

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

New Businesses Sprouting in Uptown

  The Uptown Marion District saw a lot of exciting changes this spring. Check out the list of businesses below that have
recently sprouted. Also, visit our online business directory at www.uptownmarion.com to check out more unique and locally
owned businesses within the District.

Ali’s Weeds Floral & Gift Boutique

524 10th St. (Relocation / Expansion)
  Ali's Weeds Floral & Gift Boutique is a full service florist,
featuring an expanded gift shop and outdoor garden area
where events such as showers, receptions and creative classes
will take place.

Another Road Brewing

631 9th St. (Relocation / Expansion)
  Another Road Brewing features an expanded drink and
food menu as well as outdoor seating and bike racks in their
new, larger space.

Cranky's Uptown Bicycles Jeff Patterson, owner of Cranky’s Uptown Bicycles (1170 7th Avenue), on
Friday, May 13, 2016. Photo republished with permission from 2016 The
1170 7th Ave. (New) Gazette, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
  Their name is Cranky's, but they are happy to be in Uptown
Marion. Whether you're looking for a new bicycle or needing Fashion Par Kitchens
service for your old ride, Cranky's Uptown Bicycles is a full-
service shop for all your cycling needs. 1246 7th Ave. (Relocation)
  Fashion Par Kitchens focuses on quality custom cabinetry
Desert Frog for both new constructions and remodels. They are your one
stop shop for the entire process from designing to finishing.
1090 7th Ave., STE 100 (Relocation) Visit their new location in Uptown Marion.
  The Desert Frog specializes in their own line of bath and
body care products as well as the ingredients to make your Google Nail Spa
own. Register for a class or visit them today.
1121 7th Ave. (New)
Eclipse Trading Post   Pamper yourself at Google Nail and Spa the next time you
are in need of a manicure or pedicure. Walk-ins are welcome.
777 11th St. (New)
  Eclipse Trading Post delivers the finest ethically traded, Kazoo Photography
earth-friendly goods from around the world to your door.
1308 8th Ave. (Relocation / Expansion)
Meeting your insurance needs.   Kazoo Photography has partnered with Salon2, a full
service hair salon, inside of their new and expanded studio
space.

360 7th Avenue, Marion, IA 52302 • 319-377-7321 Uptown Snug
www.bouslog.com
760 11th St. (New)
  The Uptown Snug is a classy casual pub located in the
heart of the Uptown Marion. Cozy up to the Snug’s fireplace,
tucked in the back of a restored historic civil war building,
and sip a premium Irish whiskey or share a toast of Guinness
with your friends. Sláinte!

2

First Uptown Marion Sign
and Awning Grant Awarded

  This spring, Uptown in the Uptown Marion 
Marion Main Street was District. Owners and/
pleased to award its first Sign or tenants of existing
and Awning Grant to Eclipse commercial buildings within
Trading Post (777 11th the Uptown Marion District
Street). Launched in March are eligible to apply. The
2016, the Business Sign and maximum grant amount is
Awning Grant Program is $1,000 and requires a 1:1
a local financial assistance match. For more information
program developed by on the Uptown Marion Sign
Uptown Marion Main and Awning Grant Program,
Street to help stimulate visit www.uptownmarion.
improvements to the exterior com.
of commercial buildings

MarionReachHigher.org 3

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Main Street Iowa Celebrates
30 Years of Outstanding Achievements

Award Winning Projects, Entrepreneurs and Volunteers Honored

  Main Street Iowa   Since 1986, local Main
celebrated 30 years of Street programs have made a
commitment to downtown significant impact on Iowa’s
and commercial district economy realizing a net
revitalization during an gain of nearly 13,000 new
awards celebration held jobs, 11,000 new businesses
Friday, April 29, 2016, in and over $1.6 billion private
downtown Des Moines. dollars invested into local
Attended by approximately Main Street districts. As a
450 individuals representing grassroots program, Main
communities across the Street communities have
state, the event recognized contributed over 2.8 million
local Main Street innovation, volunteer hours in local
leaders, entrepreneurship, revitalization efforts.
private investments and   “These numbers are
the catalytic power of Main only half the story,” stated
Street. Michael Wagler, Main Street
  As part of the awards Iowa State Coordinator.
banquet, Uptown Marion “Each number has a real
Main Street presented business, entrepreneur,
local volunteer and board developer, personality and
member, Michelle Wilson partnership behind it. And
with the 2016 Leadership most importantly, none
Award thanks to her ongoing of these milestones were
commitment to Marion’s reached at once; it has taken
Main Street Program and years of incremental impact
the community as a whole. to get this point.”
Previous local recipients of   “Healthy, historic
this award have been Judy commercial districts are
Hall (2013), Patty Webster a key deciding factor for
(2014), and Gae Sharp Top: Governor Terry Branstad joined by award recipient Michelle Wilson, industrial and business
Richardson (2015). The Uptown Marion Director Ashley Zierath, and IEDA Director Debi recruitment. Main Street
honors were presented by Durham. Bottom, left to right: Ashley Zierath, Jeanne Matthews, Debi brings jobs, investment
Governor Terry E. Branstad Durham, Jill Ackerman, Michelle Wilson, Pat Schmidt, and Karen Hoyt
and Debi Durham, director
of the Iowa Economic in 1985,” stated Governor Approach® to district and new businesses to our
Development Authority Branstad during the awards revitalization by establishing downtowns and historic
(IEDA). program. “Main Street Main Street Iowa within the commercial neighborhoods,”
  “We knew from the very Iowa’s 30th Anniversary is agency that is now the Iowa said Durham. “Taxpayers
beginning that Main Street an opportunity to reflect on Economic Development are certainly getting their
was not a quick-fix solution challenges overcome, the Authority. Since inception, money’s worth. In FY15, for
but rather an incremental successes and the areas of the state program and its every dollar the state of Iowa
approach to fostering opportunity that exist on the communities have been invested in operating the
positive change. It has had horizon.” considered examples of state Main Street program,
far greater impact than we   In 1985, the Iowa excellence in the national the private sector in those
ever could have imagined Legislature adopted the effort to revitalize historic communities invested $54
National Main Street commercial districts across into building improvements
Center's Four Point the country. and acquisitions.”

4

Be The Boss!
Jacobson Entrepreneur Camp Coming to Marion

  The Marion Chamber new friends, have tons of fun! 
and MEDCO are excited to   At the end of the week
announce a new Jacobson camp participants will be
Entrepreneur Camp being able to get direct feedback
held in Marion July 11 - 15, from customers and sell their
2016. products. Each camper will
  This summer camp is present to a panel of judges
for students entering 7th, who award CASH prizes to
8th, and 9th grades in the the top plans!
fall living in the Marion/   Camp cost is $200 for
Cedar Rapids area interested the week. A limited number
in entrepreneurship and of $100 scholarships are
owning a business. Camp available on a first come, first
runs daily from 8:30 served basis. For full camp
a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Campers details or the apply visit
will hear from successful http://jacobsoninstitute.org/
entrepreneurs, tour local mscamps.html
entrepreneurial businesses,   This opportunity is
develop an innovative idea provided in part by Hills
for a product, sell your Bank and Trust Company
product at the camp Biz and the University of Iowa's
Expo, Learn how to give a Jacobson Institute for Youth
great elevator pitch, make Entrepreneurship.

Member FDIC 240 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids • 319-247-5721
3905 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, Cedar Rapids • 319-294-2444
3610 Williams Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids • 319-654-9595
800 11th St, Marion • 319-337-6066

MarionReachHigher.org 5

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

On-Boarding Orientation for
New Marion Leaders

  This spring, Robotics Club and
MEDCO hosted the Career Explorer
an On-Boarding after-school club
Session for new at Vernon Middle
Board members, School. These
City Council programs align with
members, and new MEDCO’s vision
members of both of an environment
the Linn-Mar and where exceptional
the Marion Board companies compete
of Education. The and thrive with a
purpose of the event skilled and well-
was to introduce educated talent
these new Marion pipeline. Attendees
leaders to MEDCO were encouraged
by providing an This May, MEDCO held an orientation for new Board members and invited new Marion to go to MEDCO’s
City Council members and new School Board members from both the Marion and Linn-Mar
overview of the districts. website to learn
o r g a n i z a t i o n’s more about a
history, their role in the that MEDCO completed in demonstrating the long- laborshed study done in
community, an update of 2015. term funding benefits to the area describing the
development activity in   MEDCO President Nick school districts using actual commuting patterns of our
Marion and insight into the Glew provided examples of data affecting each district. region’s workforce.
strategic planning process Tax Increment Financing Glew showed photos of   MEDCOisthankfulforthe
(TIF) projects in Marion, the progress being made leadership provided by these
at the Marion Enterprise elected officials. Equipping
Center and explained the them with knowledge and
competitive advantage a better understanding of
that this park provides our the economic development
community for companies environment in the
looking to expand. community is just one way
  Glew shared that that MEDCO works to help
MEDCO is actively involved the Marion community
in helping to educate and Reach Higher and Achieve
equip tomorrow’s workforce More.
through sponsoring activities
such as the Linn-Mar

6

A Note From Nick

  Writing a timely column Prospect Meadows Economic Impact
around the momentum
of an exciting economic • Annual out of town visitors: 60,000
development project is • Annual hotel-room nights: 80,000
difficult to do. From a • New hotel revenue generated in the
traditional economic
development perspective, region: $7,200,000
the Prospect Meadows • New hotel-motel tax revenue: $500,000
baseball/softball complex • New retail spending: $25,000,000
isn’t the type of high impact • New local option sales tax revenue: $250,000
manufacturing or industrial • New Iowa sale tax revenue: $1,500,000
user that we talk about most • New job creation – 150 full-time and part-time jobs

often. However, I believe that Terry Branstad, whom we Prospect Meadows team,
Prospect Meadows has the visited in mid-May and I need to specifically
potential to provide one of received positive feedback. thank Senator Liz Mathis,
the most powerful economic Nick Glew, MEDCO President. Once signed into law this Representative Ken Rizer,
boosts that this community legislation will provide a and Senator Dan Zumbach
has experienced in many in Major League baseball rebate of sales tax dollars for their hard work during
years. Let me tell you a bit went through Perfect generated by the operations this legislative session.
about the project. Game’s development system. of the Prospect Meadows Without their leadership
  The Prospect Meadows Each year, Perfect Game project. It’s a unique and dedication to navigating
complex will be a operates the largest full- incentive that is no risk to the “politics” in Des Moines,
destination for regional and field baseball events in the the state of Iowa or local this project would not be
national baseball/softball nation with nearly all of their tax payers while providing positioned where it stands
tournaments and events. tournaments now hosted a powerful return for our today.
The project includes 17 in other states across the community.   Much work remains to
baseball/softball fields, a country. Quite simply, the   Prospect Meadows is not getting the final financial
miracle field for players state of Iowa lacks adequate just a win for Marion, it’s a pieces to fall into place, but
with a variety of disabilities, facilities to host this caliber win for our region. That’s momentum is on our side.
and many other amenities. of events here at home. why the City of Marion is Let’s look forward to hitting
Located at the intersection Perfect Game is providing a joined by the Linn County a home run together!
of County Home Road and guaranty of bringing more Board of Supervisors, City of Nick Glew, President
Highway 13 on the north than 1,024 teams annually Cedar Rapids, Linn County [email protected]
side of Marion, the facility to the complex. We know Conservation and many
is within driving distance that 80% of these teams will private donors in providing
from many major markets travel from outside of the critical financial backing.
and is projected to attract state of Iowa.   While we continue to
more than 120,000 attendees   Making a project of this diligently work with the
each year, including 60,000 magnitude happen is taking a
visitors filling up to 80,000 true team effort. Over the past
hotel-room nights. 60 days, Marion Economic
  The power of this project Development Corporation
is anchored by Perfect Game has invested countless hours
USA, a local company in supporting the passage
that recently located to of a critical piece of state
new offices in the Marion legislation. As I write, we
community. Perfect Game know that “Senate File 2312”
is the world’s largest baseball has successfully passed both
scouting service. In 2015, the Iowa House and Senate.
80% of all players drafted We anxiously await the
signature of Iowa Governor

MarionReachHigher.org 7

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Marion Economic Development Progress Update

  This summer, Marion transportation and heavy
is seeing some increased equipment industries.
activity with two businesses Offering services for
opening up east of Highway precision milling, lathe and
13. Victory Gymnastics, Swiss turning of various
located on the corner of steels, aluminum, brass,
Gateway Drive and 62nd plastics and composites,
Street, opened for lessons ESM can offer its customers
and parties in May. Electric fast turn arounds for high
Specialty Manufacturing and low volume work. ESM
(ESM) has a June move-in currently has 12 employees
date to their new building ranging from 30 plus years of
in the Marion Enterprise service to those entering the
Center on the corner of workforce directly from the
MEDCO Dr. and Partner CNC program at Kirkwood
Ave. Community College.
  ESM is a CNC machine Owned by Jim Eipert and Electric Specialty Manufacturing is located at the corner of Partners Ave.
shop previously located on Todd Heying, the shop is and MEDCO Dr. in the Marion Enterprise Center.

5th Street. ESM manufactures run by Marion resident Tim the world changed, so did opportunities.
ESM, moving away from   Business has grown 50%
parts for a diverse clientele Atwood, whose children the mechanical and into the since 2011, meaning that
base including medical, attended Linn-Mar Schools. computerized age.
aerospace, scientific, Eipert believes that Marion   The direction of the their facility on 5th Street
company shifted when would no longer hold them.
remains the right place to Eipert and Heying purchased They purchased a site at the
grow the business. “The City the business in 2011. Prior
of Marion and the Marion to that, Eipert stated that Marion Enterprise Center
with ESM’s focus on small in 2015 and broke ground
Economic Development parts, previous owner Greg shortly after. Eipert explains
Corp did a great job helping Wilson professed “if it hurts
us through every step of when you drop it on your that a new location provides
foot, it’s too big” Adding them the space to increase
the process to grow our larger products along with efficiency and improve
business!” investing in training and
  ESM began its life in advanced machines to productivity. Also, with a
improve efficiencies and newer and updated work
the late 1800’s, primarily quality has resulted in new environment, they expect to
making telephone
switchboard and systems attract top-notch talent as
they grow in employment
supplies, underground numbers. And, if history
pipe & cable locators, and
later on, telegraph keys. As continues to repeat, they’ll
need to do so as they are
predicting another 30-40%
sales growth over the next
five years.
  Victory Gymnastics,
owned by Eric and Stephanie
Phillips, is a newer enterprise
in the Marion community.
“We chose Marion because it
such a growing community,
and there was really nothing
out here like this for the
families with children,” said
Ms. Phillips. “I love how the
people of Marion support

8

MEDCO Career Explorers

Victory Gymnastics is a new gymnastics training facility in Marion, now
open for business.

their local businesses. The you to Lon Pluckhahn, the Vernon Middle School's Career Explorers Club toured Linn County
people who live here are very City Manager. Both he and REC to hear about the wide variety of careers at their organization.
proud of their community the City Council Members Here, the students learn about the tools and a typical day-in-the-life
and they take pride in have been so supportive of of a lineman.
supporting it. That is why we our project from the very Hames Homes hosted students from the Vernon Middle School Career
were so excited about being beginning. Also, Charlie Explorers Club this school year. T. Curtis Hames talked to students
able to bring such a state of Potter with Potter Real Estate about the variety of careers that his company offers and then let them
the art gymnastics facility to helped us with our land see some of their manufactured homes. Hames explained that they
this area. We believe Victory purchase and could not have hire people with general contractor skills and a few of the students said
Gymnastics Training Center been easier to work with! He they'd be interested in getting a summer job there in a few years!
will be of great benefit to even showed up to several
the City of Marion and the City Council meetings just
families who call this home. to be there and support us!”
It will be a place the families MEDCO works on behalf
of this community can be of the Marion community
proud that their city has to to create an exceptional
offer! We cannot say enough environment for businesses
amazing things about Kevin to compete and thrive.
Boge with Farmers State Look for more growth and
Bank. He has walked us development at the Marion
through this entire process. Enterprise Center in the
We also owe a huge thank near future.

MarionReachHigher.org 9

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Economic Development
Week in the Corridor

  Economic development   In addition, MEDCO in the Corridor Business the workforce does not
is work that happens highlighted short video Journal in conjunction with depend on a ZIP code.
year-round and mostly vignettes from a few of our five other regional economic MEDCO knows that
behind the scenes. One investors talking about the 1 development organizations. employees are willing
week this May, the 8th- Thing that people might not   The work of the Marion to travel to the right
14th, was dedicated to know about their company. Economic Development job and remain in their
shine a light on the work You can find those videos at Corp positions our community of choice.
of economic developers #Medco1Thing on Twitter, community to attract and   The Creative Corridor
in the Corridor. During or on MEDCO’s YouTube grow business, ensure enjoys an environment of
this week, the profession of channel. MEDCO also employment options and collaboration among local
economic development and wrote a guest editorial in help create a diversified tax development organizations.
the professionals that work the Cedar Rapids Gazette base through coordinating, One example of this is the
to create opportunity for all and a full-page ad was run promoting, advocating Creative Corridor Regional
citizens and communities Vision Rising project. This
within the corridor was project will build on regional
highlighted through a social strengths, preserve local
media campaign using identity, and add value to the
#CorridorEDWeek shared existing efforts of individual
on Twitter, Facebook and organizations throughout
LinkedIn accounts. the region. Several local
organizations are represented
for and assisting business on the Steering Committee,
opportunities. MEDCO including the Cedar Rapids
creates strategic relationships Metro Economic Alliance,
with the business the Corridor Alliance, the
community, educators, local Iowa City Area Development
General Contractor | Design Built government, and state-wide Group, and the Marion
economic development Economic Development
Proud to be partners to do the work. Corporation.
constructing   MEDCO invests in   MEDCO encourages
Legacy’s new tomorrow’s workforce you to keep informed, stay
building in through partnerships with connected, and get involved
Marion’s new the Linn-Mar and Marion in of all of the amazing
Industrial Park. Independent K-12 school things happening in Marion.
system, as well as with Stay in touch with MEDCO’s
319-362-3221 Kirkwood Community social media platforms
College and area colleges and through Facebook, Twitter,
1619 F Ave NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 universities with the intent and / or LinkedIn.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 to develop a strong pipeline   www.facebook.com/
to drive future business medcoiowa.com
success. Our region recently   www.twitter.com/
collaborated on a Laborshed medcoia
Analysis through the Iowa   www.linkedin.com/
Department of Workforce company/marion-
Development. This study economic-development-
measured the commuting company
patterns in the Corridor
labor market, verifying that

10

Upcoming Events Platinum Community
Events Kick Off in June

High Five! Marion Wake Up Marion Billy Heller on July 9 and
acoustic guitarist Matt Gogel
June 8, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. August 4, 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. on August 13.
Marion Airport Marion Heritage Center
1710 Marion Airport Rd., Marion 590 10th St., Marion

Uptown Marion Market Uptown Getdown   Warmer weather signals Uptown Getdown
the start of free community
June 11, 8:00 a.m. – Noon August 4, 6:00–9:00 p.m. events in City Square Park. Thursdays in August
City Square Park City Square Park Gather with friends and 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Bob Dorr & The Blue Band family, shop local fresh   Bring your chairs and
Biz Mix - F&M Bank produce and artisan items, friends and spend the
Uptown Getdown enjoy great music! evening with some of
June 16, 4:00–6:00 p.m. the areas greatest bands
2350 Edgewood Rd. SW August 11, 6:00–9:00 p.m. Uptown Marion Market returning from last year! And
Cedar Rapids City Square Park we are thrilled to welcome
The Pork Tornadoes June 11, July 9 and August 13 Alisabeth Von Presley to
Wake Up Marion 8:00 a.m. - Noon play Uptown Getdown first
Uptown Marion Market   Fresh produce, flowers, time. Food vendors and a
July 7, 8:00–9:00 a.m. baked goods, Iowa wines, beautiful park setting make
Farm Bureau Financial Services August 13, 8:00 a.m. – Noon honey and wide variety of this a fun, summer family
808 6th St., Ste. 3, Marion City Square Park artisan items – all from local tradition.
vendors. Kids activities and   August 4 - Bob Door &
Uptown Marion Market BizMix – Storey community programming The Blue Band
Kenworthy round out the day featuring   August 11 – The Pork
July 9, 8:00 a.m. – Noon Papa Balloon, Linn County Tornadoes
City Square Park August 18, 4:00–6:00 p.m. Trails, Master Gardeners,   August 18 – Alisabeth Von
1495 Boyson Rd, Hiawatha Blue Zones, Creative Presley
Be The Boss! Corridor, and City of   August 25 – 8 Seconds
Jacobson Entrepreneur Uptown Getdown Marion. Enjoy the sounds of
Camp steel drum band Pandelirium
August 18, 6:00–9:00 p.m. on June 11, acoustic guitarist
July 11–15 City Square Park
City Hall, Marion Alisabeth Von Presley These free community events are made possible by Marion
Chamber Platinum Community Partners
Marion Chamber Golf Uptown Getdown
Outing Thank you
August 25, 6:00–9:00 p.m. Marion Chamber Platinum Community Partners
July 12 City Square Park
Hunters Ridge Golf Course 8 Seconds

Eat. Drink. & Be Marion Wake Up Marion

July 14, 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. September 1, 8:00–9:00 a.m.
Uptown Marion District Ali’s Weeds & Gift Boutique
524 10th St., Marion
Ribbon Cutting
BizMix – CRST
July 21, 2:00 p.m.
Hupp Electric Motors Sept. 15, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
500 57th St., Marion Downtown Location

BizMix – Fiesta Block Swamp Fox Festival
Party Fall Marion Market

July 21, 5:00–7:00 p.m. Sept. 24, 7:30 – 1:00 p.m.
700 11th St., Marion

For a complete list of Chamber and community events,
visit www.marioncc.org.

MarionReachHigher.org 11

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Fiesta Block Party Celebrates 20 Years

  Years of networking, in hosting a PM Exchange partners were brought on and roof of my car.” The hat was
margaritas and amigos will event for the businesses the Fiesta Block Party was used for several years before
be celebrated this summer located near his 11th Street born. “Farmers State Bank it disappeared. “I don’t know
when the Fiesta Block building. Martin had was getting ready to celebrate why someone would want
Party turns 20. This iconic recently served as Chair a 70th Anniversary and we that,” she added.
event, hosted by Carlos of the Marion Chamber had partnered with Martin   Martin recalls, “when
O'Kelly’s, Farmers State of Commerce, which at
Bank and Martin Gardner that time was located on
Architecture, represents the 11th Street. “We wanted to
epitome of partnerships. get more visibility in the
  The history of this community and provide the
event goes back to the opportunity for Uptown
1990’s when Dave Martin, businesses to get to know
President of Martin Gardner one another.”
Architecture, was interested   By 1996 the other two

Gardner Architecture on we started this, Bill Kuba
previous projects. This was was still serving beers, Fred
a natural way for us to give Weber was shaking paint and
It’s Our back to the community,” said the Marion Iron relocation
20th Year! Lynn Ciha, VP of Marketing was a crazy idea.”
at Farmers State Bank.    This year extra fun is in
It’s Our   Since the start, this store to help celebrate the
20th Year! partnership has provided event on July 21. A 5:00 p.m.
the opportunity for each ribbon cutting will be held
22001166Please join us for our 20th Annual Summer Fiesta Block Party on Thursday, organization to have their at the entrance to the block
staff engaged and interacting party and will signal the
PleaJsuelyjo2in1sutsfrfoomr o5u-r72p0.mth.AEnnnjouyaflrSeuemmmaergraFriietastsa, bBeloecr,ksPalasratymounsicThaunrdsday, with the business community start of the event. Enjoy a
catJeurliyng2b1ystCfarorlmos5O-’7Kepl.lmy’s.!EFnejostyivfirtieees mloacargteadriatats7,0b0ee1r1, tshaSltsraeemtuinsicMaanridon while at the same time giving complimentary photo booth
catearicnrogsbsyfrCoamrlMosaOri’oKneSllqyu’sa!rFeePstairvkit.ieVsisliot cwawtewd.mata7ri0o0nc1c.1otrhgSftoreredteitnaiMlsa. rion back. (complete with props) to
  Lisa DeWees, Marketing commemorate the event and
across from Marion Square Park. Visit www.marioncc.org for details. Manager with Carlos Another Road Brewery will
O’Kelly’s, spends a lot of be tapping their latest brew.

  time in area businesses. She   These three businesses

  states “everyone talks about have not only created a
this event. You can really see great working partnership,
the impact you have in the but it’s undeniable when
community.” sitting in a room with Lisa,
  The event has endured Lynn and Dave, they are
extreme weather over the also great amigos. Cheers
years, from severe storms
to intense heat. But with to all three and their teams
the help of a giant sombrero at Carlos, Farmers State
fiesta goers could keep their Bank and Martin Gardner
cool. “We’ve had a lot of fun Architecture for making the
over the years,” said DeWees fiesta happen each year! And
remembering the sombrero if you happen to stumble
that served as an ice bath across a six foot fiberglass
for pop and water. “I bought sombrero, we know a block
it from Mondo’s when they party that would do a happy
closed and hauled it on the dance.

12

March Joins Chamber for Internship

  We are pleased to welcome home football and basketball Harrison March, Chamber Intern there as a communications
Harrison March as an intern games. intern.
at the Chamber this summer.   Before his current only person from Iowa State   Harrison has lived in
Harrison just finished his position, Harrison worked to get injured at the 2015 Big Marion since he was around
junior year at Iowa State as a reporter and assistant 12 Tournament for women’s one year old and is looking
University, where he is editor at the Iowa State Daily basketball, despite being forward to returning home
majoring in Public Relations newspaper and spent two this summer to work with
and has a General Business years as a producer and host local businesses and the
minor. on Iowa State’s student-run community. He hopes to
  At Iowa State, he radio station, 88.5 KURE. drink lots of coffee with
works in the Athletic   His favorite work his friends, break out his
Communications office experiences include being telescope a few times and
as the sports information on the floor of Hilton enjoy his last summer
director for the swimming Coliseum when the men’s of quasi-freedom before
and diving program and basketball team beat No. 1 joining the real world next
works with the media at Oklahoma and being the spring.

Welcome New Chamber Members

Adamas, Inc. Marion Dairy Queen ServiceMaster by Rice

305 2nd Ave SE, Ste 200, Cedar Rapids 2100 7th Ave., Marion 915 Blairs Ferry Rd, Marion
1-888-674-6882 | www.adamastech.net 319-377-1054 | www.dairyqueen.com 319-365-9265 | www.servicemasterbyrice.com
  Adamas, Inc is a leader in digital services   A pillar in the community since 1952, the   Service Master By Rice is Iowa's leading
with a team of technology experts and decades Marion Dairy Queen offers the BEST ice cream disaster cleanup service. Whether you are
of experience in the mobile and embedded cakes around. Dairy Queen recently underwent recovering from a natural disasters, fires, floods,
software industry. a complete rebuild of their building and added thunderstorms or traumas.
drive-thru access.

Indian Creek Nature Center Masters Masonry & Landscape Skywalk Group

6665 Otis Rd. SE, Cedar Rapids | 319-362-0664 Marion, IA | 319-214-3483 221 2nd Ave. SE, Ste. 240, Cedar Rapids
www.indiancreeknaturecenter.org www.masonrylandscapes.com 319-743-9830 | www.skywalkgroup.com
  Masters Masonry & Landscaping provides   Skywalk Group offers comprehensive HR
  The Indian Creek Nature Center promotes a exceptional Home Improvement, Hardscapes professional services including recruiting,
sustainable future through education, providing (concrete, brick, stone & tile), & Repair Services. consulting and training.
leadership in land protection and restoration,
and encouraging responsible interactions with
nature

MarionReachHigher.org 13

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Member Milestones Annual Marion Chamber

Golf Outing July 12

Chamber Ambassadors assisted with the Grand Opening of South Miami
Formal Fashions, 786 8th Avenue. Owner Maria Gilbert is helping keep
boring at bay with unique, latin-inspired gowns, prom and homecoming
dresses, jeans, shoes, accessories and lingerie.

City of Marion staff were joined by elected officials at a ground breaking to   There is still time to register and be a part of
mark the start of the 7th Street & 7th Avenue Roundabout. The project will the annual Chamber Golf Outing. This day of
implement a long-term traffic management plan for Marion’s core. networking and fun will be Tuesday, July 12 at
Congratulations to Goodwill of the Heartland on the Grand Opening of Hunters Ridge Golf Course. There are three ways
their new store location and dedication of the Hills Bank Retail Training to get involved!
Room, located at 3207 7th Avenue.   Team Registration – This outing is a 4-person
best shot, 1/2 day play options available. Get
together for fun, use as a team building experience
or entertain clients. The morning session begins
at 7:30 a.m. and afternoon session at 1:00 p.m.
Registration includes 18 holes of golf, 2 drink
tickets, continental breakfast, catered lunch and
great prizes. Cost per golfer is $125 or team of four
is $500, tax included.
  Hole Sponsorship – Limited availability!
Sponsorship includes a sign with your logo and
an opportunity to be at your designated hole
promoting your business.
  Prize Donation Sponsor – We are looking for
donations for team prizes and anything $50 in
value or more is included in the raffle. This is a
great way to promote your business with a gift
card, promotional or retail item.
  Visit bit.ly/GolfMarionChamber or contact Tami
Schlamp at [email protected] to register your
team, become a hole sponsor and prize donation
sponsor.
Thank you to our corporate sponsor, 380 Companies!

Kettel House Bakery & Café, 945 6th Avenue, celebrated the start of their
5th year in Marion with a ribbon cutting. So much more than pecan rolls,
Kettel House is a great stop for a ladies brunch or business lunch.

14

Operation Snowflake a Success

  In December the 2015- would like to thank those • F & M Bank • Agri-Management
16 Marion Leadership In who have pledged funding • Guaranty Bank & Trust Services
Action (MLIA) class began for the campaign that will • Hill and Williams Bros.
a fundraising campaign to help create a wonderful sense • Ali's Weeds Floral & Gift
add decorative winter lights of place for both residents Trucking Boutique
to enhance the light poles and visitors. Together we are • Hogan Hansen
and banners along major reaching higher! • The Nathan Caraway • DDM Landscape and
thoroughfares throughout Irrigation
Marion. This project was Platinum Level Company
selected to follow previous • Brian Rosteck, Skogman • Daoud Real Estate, LLC
MLIA classes and their • Alliant Energy • Heartland Animal
donations of new brand • Central Iowa Power Commercial
banners last year. • Summit Point Senior Hospital
  The MLIA group, which Cooperative • ICAN, Inc.
is comprised of 12 local • Fosters Heating and Air Living • Marion Dental
business leaders, raised a • US Bank • Rinderknecht Associates,
total of $15,200 through Conditioning
business donations and • Hills Bank and Trust Silver Level Inc.
securing a match from • Marion Water Department • Skogman Realty
The City of Marion. This • Qdogs BBQ Company • Nick and Cristiane • Wit’s End Coffeehouse
will purchase Winter Light • Quintin and Sara AbouAssaly • YMCA – Marion
displays for 40 poles. • Zio Johno’s
  This project wouldn’t be Shepherd • Adams Tile
possible without the support • University of Iowa Partner Level
from the local business
community. The Marion Community Credit Union • Heather Morris Realty
Chamber of Commerce and • Farm Bureau Financial
the 2015-16 MLIA class Gold Level
Services – Chris
• The Esco Group Oberbroeckling
• Ramsey’s Wine Bistro
• Randy Strnad Insurance
Inc.

Marion Leadership In Action
Class Registration

  Registration is now open for next year’s Marion
Leadership In Action class which will begin September
2016. This Professional Development and Community
Engagement series covers everything from history and
culture to economic and community development. It’s a tool
designed for community and business members who want
to strengthen their leadership skills and put them to use in
the community.
  Classes for this 10-month program are held the
third Friday of each month from Noon – 5:00 p.m. at
various locations in Marion. For more information visit
www.marioncc.org/2016-17-mlia-application or contact
[email protected].

MarionReachHigher.org 15

1225 6th Avenue, Suite 100, Marion, Iowa 52302 PRSRT STD
U.S.Postage

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Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
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