February 2020 Business Connection

The Business Connection

March 2020

Connecting Students
to Career Resources

Inside Community Promise begin pursuing their interests.
intentionally connects Students in grades 10th-12th are eligible for
Kern Joins MEDCO students to careers in the
community. Throughout job shadows and internships. Additionally,
Page 3 the 2019-2020 school students are encouraged to browse job
year, MEDCO staff has profiles on medcoiowa.org/jobs-board. We've
Employment Law visited with middle and identified high demand jobs needed in our
Mistakes to Avoid high school students community over the next two years. These
to share local career aren’t necessarily jobs that are open today.
Page 6 opportunities and how Think of them as careers where future talent
they align with student is always being pursued. We want to expose
Explore Uptown interests. and inspire youth about careers they might
one day pursue.
Page 14 Students are often
asked: “What do you Additionally, to showcase career fields,
want to do when you grow up?” It’s quite a
daunting question to answer at a young age. community promise, continued on page 7
Long before adulthood they’re asked to choose
one thing to be, incur debt to train in that
one thing, and stick to that choice for a long
time. We know there is a lot of learning and
investigation into how each individual passion
and interest morphs into a career.

Some people are indeed geared to dedicate
their lives to one career. Many of us are not
wired that way and are multi-passionate people.
There’s not a set blueprint for discovering your
life work. While each individual journey is
its own adventure, there are a wide variety of
tools students can take advantage of now to

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MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

A Note From Nick
How do we measure the
success and impact of the Nick Glew, MEDCO President. • Growth of personal joining us for several of
work we do? I recently income our 2020 events that are
participated in a professional • For the first time in at geared to deliver value to
development summit that least the past decade, • Decline in poverty rate you and your team as we
outlined the measurement new commercial/ • Increased education work hard to maintain the
of social impact. In other industrial tax valuations great momentum in this
words, how do we quantify exceeded the new attainment community.
the true community value of valuations of residential • Increased median home
capital investment and new property. On behalf of our entire
jobs that our team supports values team, thank you for your
throughout the year. The projects that MEDCO • Higher percentages of partnership and your trust
supports are paying in the work that we do.
As we reflect on yet dividends and producing owner-occupied homes
another remarkable year of results. Companies continue • Reduced Nick Glew, President
investment in Marion, we to invest and grow alongside [email protected]
are continuously reminded new commercial and multi- unemployment rate
of how blessed we are to family projects. When we As your economic
be leaders in a growing talk about social impact, development team leads
community. we begin to define perhaps into the next decade, we’ll
the most important metrics continue to seek new ways
• In 2019, new that define success for a of best communicating the
construction in the community. Some of these value of the work we do.
community surpassed measurements may include: Ultimately, it’s about people
$119M and their overall quality of
life. Watch for more to come
• Our seven-county labor as we enter the new year.
force grew 2.5% in 12 I hope you’ll consider
months

• The unemployment rate
of our Marion citizens
ended the year at 2.8%,
slightly lower than the
countywide rate.

• Our 2020 pipeline
remains strong with
several large projects
ready to commence this
Spring.

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2

Kern Joins the MEDCO Team
Let me formally introduce to venture into one or two new on in 2020 is a Business
myself. My name is Dustin markets in the Midwest. After Retention and Expansion
Kern and I am the “new guy” many travels and thorough due strategy. Critical to this plan
at MEDCO. I joined the team diligence, I was able to land is engaging as many of our
in November and serve as the a project in the great place of local businesses in Marion as
Business Retention Specialist. Marion. Looking back now 15 possible. In order to maintain
I was born in Minneapolis years, it was the inviting and a stable business environment,
and raised in Mankato, MN. open-minded nature of the I’m working to identify needs,
I spent the first 10 years of City of Marion staff that really opportunities, barriers, and
my professional career in sealed the deal on us moving issues facing local enterprise.
the Minneapolis/St. Paul forward and entering the local
metropolitan area working for marketplace. A couple years In addition to basic company
two of the largest homebuilders down the road my wife and engagement, the plan is
and developers in the area. I Dustin Kern I decided to make Marion to perform a Community
am beyond thankful for the our home. We currently have Interview Survey with our
opportunities and mentors I the value of creating long two children in the Linn Mar Marion businesses and
had while employed for those lasting relationships. School District. MEDCO investor partners.
businesses as I truly learned In 2005, I was given the task The purpose of this survey is to
My position at MEDCO is obtain data on the businesses,
focused on business retention and to dive deeper into a more
and small business support. thorough understanding and
Additionally, I will be assisting corporate outlook. If we find
the MEDCO team on new that many of the businesses
building and expansion have mutual concerns, we can
projects in the community. then strategize collectively on
how to address those issues and
One very important improve the Marion business
initiative that I will be focusing environment. Obviously, we
are hoping that most of the
Wednesday, May 6th | 11:30 - 1 PM adno=106352 responses received are positive
in nature, but we can always
Join us to celebrate last season’s wins and do better by reaching higher to
equip your team to knock it out of the park! succeed. This initiative will be
in partnership with the Marion
PLUS, a Home Run Derby! Chamber of Commerce.
Together we’ll interview more
than 200 companies in 2020.
I look forward to visiting with
you soon!

For more information, visit: medcoiowa.org/luncheon

Presenting Sponsor:

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MarionReachHigher.org 3

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

U.S. House of Representatives Approves $428 Billion Tax Cuts Package

On December 17, the U.S. for propane used in as an effective planning
House approved a tax cuts forklifts – extended tool. Also included in
package that addresses tax through 2020, the Act are other RMD
extenders, retirement savings, applicable retroactively beginning date changes
2017 TCJA fixes and more.  to fuel sold or used in (changed from the year
The U.S. Senate is expected to 2018 and 2019 the owner reaches age
approve the tax cuts package • Employer credit 70 ½ to the year the
and President Trump has for paid family and owner reaches age 72)
indicated he will sign the bill. Mitch Estling medical leave extended and maximum age
through 2020 (was set limitation.
In this legislation, the U.S. to expire in 2019) • 401(k) Changes –
House revived a package of • WOTC extended under the new law,
expired tax breaks, known as through 2020 (was set employers with 401(k)
tax extenders. Below is a list of to expire in 2019) plans must offer
what is included: • Credit for health employees who work
insurance costs of between 500 and 1,
Tax Extenders CPA eligible individuals 000 hours per year an
Retroactive and current BerganKDV extended through 2020 additional means to
renewal of over two dozen tax participate in the plan.
extenders which have expired applicable for costs SECURE Act – Retirement Changes to safe harbors
or are soon-to-be expired, incurred after 12/31/17 Savings for contributions are
spanning from 2017 to 2019, • Nonbusiness energy also included.
including the below key items. property credit ($500 Also included in the • Retirement Plans
• $1-per-gallon biodiesel lifetime credit for appropriations legislation is the for Small Employers
residential doors, Setting Every Community Up – Several changes are
tax credit and railroad windows, insulation, for Retirement Enhancement included in this Act
maintenance credit heat pumps, furnaces, (SECURE Act) which was to make it easier for
extended through 2022, air conditioners, effective January 1, 2020. The smaller employers to
applicable retroactively and water heaters) SECURE Act makes several offer retirement plans
back to 1/1/18 extended through 2020, important changes to the to their employees
• Exclusion from gross applicable retroactively rules for retirement savings including employer
income from discharge to property placed in and employer retirement credit for plan start-up
of qualified principal service in 2018 and contributions, as well as costs and a new class
residence indebtedness 2019 changing the kiddie tax rules. of Multiple Employer
extended through 2020, • Energy efficient homes Below is a recap of the major Plan (MEP) service
applicable to discharges credit for homebuilders provisions of the Act: providers to offer
after 12/31/17 extended through 2020, pooled plans.
• Treatment of mortgage applicable retroactively • Contributions and • Kiddie Tax Changes
insurance premiums to homes acquired in Distributions – the – A child’s unearned
as qualified residence 2018 and 2019 most significant change income is generally
interest extended • Energy efficient made by the SECURE subject to the kiddie
through 2020, commercial buildings Act is to replace the tax. The Act will
applicable for amounts deduction (Sec. 179D) 5-year rule for required fix an unintended
paid after 12/31/17 extended through 2020, minimum distributions consequence in the Tax
• Reduction in medical applicable retroactively (RMD) from qualified Cuts and Jobs Act by
expense deduction to property placed in retirement plans and calculating the kiddie
floor of 7.5% extended service in 2018 and IRAs made to non- tax by computing the
through 2020 (was to 2019 spouse beneficiaries child’s share of the
go to 10% for 2019) • Extension of excise with a 10-year window.
• Deduction of qualified tax credits relating to This change will tax cuts,
tuition and related alternative fuels – part severely limit, if not continued on page 5
expenses extended of which is the $0.50 eliminate, the use of a
through 2020, per gallon credit so-called “stretch IRA”

4

MEDCO Hosts Another Year of Collaborative Training

Kirkwood Corporate and still honoring of the
Training has partnered work of the company was
with Marion Economic focus throughout the day.
Development Corporation Participants also learned
for the past five years to about the motivating forces
bring cutting edge training behind the toxic actions of
opportunities to the Marion people and evaluating ways to
business community. The move forward with success.
Business Leadership Series
(formerly Innovate Marion) December’s session brought
includes hands-on, engaging a lively morning with Lisa
and interactive training Schaefer. She discussed the turnover affects many levels who is on which team and
sessions aimed at equipping surprising truths behind what in an organization. Leaders how they work together. Gen
local businesses with the tools motivates us. “We really look need to be self-aware and Z, the youngest members of
and resources to become their at best strategies in creating understanding of how to the workforce, bring unique
best. workplaces that motivate cultivate trust. Those who perspectives and challenges
The series started in employees, how we’re attended this workshop that stretch your thinking in
October with a session taught communicating expectations, learned the core elements of new ways. Participants in this
by Heather Woody, it was the shared vision and why trust and how to apply them session will walk away with
centered on toxic attitudes appreciating staff is so to transform their teams. a new understanding for this
in the workplace and how crucial,” says Schaefer. generation of workers and
to deal with those difficult The final session of this how to build an even stronger
situations. Being upfront February’s session included series happens in April and team with them involved.
with these issues and tackling discussion on employee will be focused on Gen
them straightforward in ways trust. Conventional wisdom Z. Who are they and what Planning for the 2020-2021
that are effective, efficient, tells us that employees don’t does it mean for our work? sessions will begin this spring,
leave companies, they leave Organizations are under with registration opening late
bad managers. The cost of relentless change, including summer.

tax cuts continued from page 4 parking being subject • Repeal of 40% excise improvement property
to a 21% UBIT for non- tax on the most • Caps on state and local
“allocable parental tax” profits generous and expensive
which is affected by not • Raises the age for health insurance plans tax (SALT) remain
only the tax situation tobacco purchases to 21 (“Cadillac tax”) which unchanged
of the child’s parents • Repeal of 2.3% excise would have hit in 2022. Bergan KDV is a business
but also the unearned tax on medical devices investor in Marion Economic
income of any siblings. (would have taken Not Part of the Bill Development Corporation
Other Provisions effect next year) • No fix for qualified
• Repeal of employee

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Owner
610Tenth Street
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Marion, Iowa 52302 888 10th St., Suite 2 Ph: 319 447 4429
319-377-4861 Marion, IA 52302 Fax: 319 447 4434

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MarionReachHigher.org 5

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Employment Law Mistakes to Avoid

After months of long employees. The handbook
hours, pinching pennies informs employees of the
and perhaps a bit of hand workplace expectations
wringing, your business and also defines their
launched. The advertising legal obligations to the
and networking you have business, as well as explains
worked so hard to develop the employees’ rights and
has paid off and revenues are benefits. It introduces
increasing as your customer employees to your culture,
base grows. Up to this point, mission, values and vision.
you have run the show, but as Beyond serving as a
your business expands you guidebook for employees,
will have to hire employees. Holly A. Corkery Amy L. Reasner the handbook is also one of
Employees are a necessary best shields the employer can
component for the growth Attorney Attorney have when defending against
of any business, but poor Lynch Dallas, P.C. Lynch Dallas, P.C. wrongful termination,
employee management is harassment, discrimination,
detrimental to any business. prevention is worth a pound The Business has an old or other employee related
Thankfully, some of the of cure.” Although not a (or non-existent) Employee claims. One of the first things
most common employment complete list of employment Handbook. that attorneys on both sides
pitfalls can be avoided with a law issues your business may
bit of proactive planning. As encounter, these are three of The employee handbook mistakes to avoid,
the saying goes, “An ounce of the top mistakes we regularly is one of the first items continued on page 7
encounter: an employer should have
in place before hiring

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6

MISTAKES TO AVOID, continued from page 6

of an employment lawsuit position. It will also provide inaccurately. plan for promotions, plan
will look at is the employee management with a basis for Performance evaluations for additional training,
handbook to see if there was measuring job performance are your opportunity to and make informed hiring
an applicable policy in place, and completing employee privately outline areas of decisions. There is a balance
whether it was followed, and evaluations. If your job improvement for your to performance evaluations
the impact on the strengths descriptions are old, employee while also though: if you are too
and/or weaknesses of each incomplete or non-existent, encouraging them to ask generous, it damages your
party’s position. they are useless as a tool to questions to ensure they ability to coach deficient
measure job performance understand the duties of performance and if you
The Business has old, and to complete performance their position or how to are too harsh, it damages
incomplete, or non-existent evaluations. Current, improve their performance. employee morale.
Job Descriptions. complete job descriptions Performance evaluations
are also important in the should be a constructive For more information
Much like the employee event you are faced with an experience, which means on these issues and other
handbook, job descriptions employee that may have a taking an opportunity general employment law
are another great way of disability or wants to return to praise and encourage issues, attend On the Menu
informing your employees to work from an illness or an employee’s good or on April 7, 2020 from 11:30-
of the expectations of injury who may require even great performance. 1:00 p.m. at the Marion City
their position with the reasonable accommodations. Regularly completing Council Chambers in City
company. A good job accurate and thoughtful Hall. We look forward to
description provides a The Business does not performance evaluations seeing you there!
clear understanding of the
purpose, essential job duties conduct Performance allows management to
and responsibilities of a
Evaluations or does them

community promise, continued from page 1

we’ve gone behind the scenes now about a future career. We We’d love to see you.
and interviewed individuals hope that the resources and
holding the careers in our tools Community Promise April 16th
community. Each month offers are used to connect 5-7 pm
these stories are shared in our future employers to valuable
once a month newsletter that relationships. 727 Oakbrook
you can sign up for by going Drive, Marion
to CommunityPromise.org Students must have the
and completing the form. courage to walk their own
paths and the curiosity to ask
There are many questions relevant to their
opportunities for students career interests. Learn more
and families to begin learning at CommunityPromise.org.

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MarionReachHigher.org 7

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Member Milestones

Infinity Medical Freund-Vector Corporation

Chamber Ambassadors helped Dr. Larae Stemmerman celebrate the opening of Freund-Vector Corporation, 675 44th St, celebrated the completion of their new
Infinity Medical, 905 29th Ave. Dr. The office is a single-provider family medicine global laboratory adding 2,000 sq ft for conference space, offices, and demonstration
clinic offering a personalized approach to patient care. rooms.

Marion Airport Goldfinch Tap + Eatery

A ground breaking ceremony was held for the Marion Airport Runway Expansion Chamber Ambassadors gathered at Goldfinch Tap + Eatery, 740 10th St,
at 1690 Marion Airport Rd. The project will expand the runway from 23-feet to 60- to celebrate the opening of the restaurant. Goldfinch features thoughtfully
feet wide and add lighting and other safety improvements. crafted American classics with chef inspired twists.

Miles of Smiles Edward Jones

The annual Miles of Smiles car giveaway took place in December. This Edward Jones celebrated the opening of a new office at 295 Tower Terrace Rd. The
event is a collaboration between The Red Cross, Marion Tire, Accel Group, new location is led by Financial Advisor Bob Eustice, ChFC®CLU®.
Hy-Vee Marion, Mt. Vernon Rd Tire, Deery Brothers Ford, Barron Motor
Supply, New Finish Automotive & Aviation.

PHELAN’S

Our interior design ex-
perts provide service you
won’t find anywhere else.

728 Third Ave. SE, adno=106363 Short’s Burger & Shine
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Congratulations to Short’s Burger & Shine! The restaurant celebrated
319-363-9634 their opening at 780 11th St. Short’s is known for its signature list of
burgers, black bean burgers and chicken sandwiches.
www.phelansinteriors.com

8

Timberline Manufacturing

Timberline Manufacturing celebrated the completion of their new manufacturing facility at 1029 Blairs Ferry Rd. The 88,500 sq ft facility nearly
doubled the company’s footprint and poised the company for future growth.

Interested in serving as a YMCA
Chamber Ambassador?

This group helps welcome new businesses and
celebrate milestones by lending support during
ribbon cuttings and ground breakings.
Visit marioncc.org/ambassadors for more info

YMCA Directors, City staff and leaders, and community members
gathered to celebrate the ground breaking of the New Marion YMCA
which will be located at 3740 Irish Drive.

Wake Up Marion

Join us each month for representatives. Meet new • Free computerized estimates
networking with other contacts, learn about new
Marion Chamber members! businesses or services, and • Repair all makes and models
Wake Up Marion is hosted share your business with
the first Thursday of each others. Mark your calendar • Work with all insurance companies
month from 8-9:00 a.m. at for these 2020 dates! Thank
a different host location. It’s you to this year’s hosts. Watch
a chance to connect – or re- for our weekly e-Update for
connect with other business registration.

March 5 Travel & Transport • Uni-body and full frame repairs
April 2 Coldwell Banker Hedges Realty
May 7 Bickford Cottage • Laser measuring system
June 4 Michelle Havener State Farm
July 9 D-BAT Marion (note date) • Heated semi-downdraft paint booth
Lily and Rose Floral Design
August 6 Hills Bank (near Goodwill) • Lifetime warranties 3415 3rd Ave. Marion
September 3 TrueWealth Stewardship
Ohnward Bank & Trust wadesautocollision.com
October 1 Juice Plus
November 5 adno=140673
December 3

MarionReachHigher.org 9

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Welcome New Chamber Members

Beans, Teas & Boys & Girls Clubs of the Service Restoration D-BAT Marion
Other Things Corridor
2264 Bison St 1783 Red Fox Way
593 62nd St, Ste 109 420 6th St SE, Ste 240 Marion, IA 52302 Marion, IA 52302
Marion, IA 52302 Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
319-206-6500 319-409-9000
319-270-9846 319-363-5766 servicerestoration.com dbatmarion.com
beansteas.com bgccr.org
HMGE

3170 22nd Ave
Marion, IA 52302

Edward Jones – Lynch Dallas, P.C. Simonson Financial
Bob Eustice Services
526 2nd Ave SE
295 Tower Terrace Rd, Ste C Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 3075 Covey Run Ct
Marion, IA 52302 Marion, IA 52302
319-289-0731 319-365-9101
lynchdallas.com 319-377-4378
edwardjones.com/bob-eustice simonsonfinancialservices.com

Upcoming Events

Wake Up Marion Uptown Real Estate Showcase MEDCO 35th Annual Luncheon

March 5, 8 to 9 a.m. April 2, 4:30 to 8 p.m. May 6, 11:30 to 1 p.m.
Travel & Transport Uptown Marion Prospect Meadows
1317 7th Ave, Marion 1890 County Home Rd, Marion
On The Menu:
Marion Legislative Day Wake Up Marion
Employment Law
March 12, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 7, 8 to 9 a.m.
State Capitol April 7, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bickford Cottage
City Hall, Rm 136 1100 Linden Dr, Marion
Loft Startup Exchange MeetUp 1225 6th Ave, Marion
BizMix
March 19, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Loft Startup Exchange MeetUp
TownePlace Suites by Marriott May 21, 4 to 6 p.m.
2823 7th Ave, Marion April 16, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Joint Corridor, location TBD
TownePlace Suites by Marriott
BizMix 2823 7th Ave, Marion Loft Startup Exchange MeetUp

March 19, 4 to 6 p.m. Ladies Day Out May 21, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
TBD TownePlace Suites by Marriott
April 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 2823 7th Ave, Marion
Wake Up Marion Uptown Marion
Marion Arts Festival
April 2, 8 to 9 a.m. BizMix
Coldwell Banker Hedges Realty May 16, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1104 7th Ave, Marion April 16, 5 to 7 p.m. City Square Park
GreenState Credit Union
727 Oakbrook Dr, Marion

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

10

Marion Arts Festival Celebrates 28 Years

Celebrate fine art and flip have engaged students in of Corridor Woodturners. marathon and 5K runs,
flops by joining friends old more than 20 area schools All proceeds go to area food which take a flat, fast course
and new Saturday, May 16th, through the creation of over banks, with over $105,000 through Marion, inviting
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. in Marion's 1,000 ceramic bowls, to be raised and donated over the runners to experience
City Square Park for the 28th donated to the festival, and program's history. innovative race technology
annual Marion Arts Festival. sold day-of. Also offered features (along with the
through the sale will be Professional artists from best finish-line party in the
The nationally recognized masterfully crafted wooden the Iowa Ceramics Center metro area). Registration
event will feature 50 bowls made by members will invite families to enjoy info at https://runsignup.
exhibitors selected from the festival's "Art in the com/Race/IA/Marion/
applications representing Depot" activity, with pottery MarionArtsFestivalHalfMar
32 states and Canada while wheels spinning toward atonand5K
offering a range of hands-on the creation of bowls to be
art experiences. The MAF is offered through the 2021 In total, the festival offers a
free, family-friendly, come- "Empty Bowls" sale. high caliber, fully accessible
as-you-are culture – whether cultural experience – a day of
browsing or buying, festival Highlighting the abilities of fine art and families, browsers
attendees will experience a college artists, the emerging and connoisseurs, fun
wide range of one-of-a-kind artist program will present and education. Presenting
objects, with the additional five young talents selling their sponsor of the Marion Arts
opportunity of getting to work alongside the festival's Festival is Farmers State Bank.
know the artists behind the slate of juried exhibitors. Full event info can be found
art. at www.marionartsfestival.
In partnership with com.
Preparations for the Corridor Running, this
festival's "Empty Bowls" sale year marks the return of
the MAF's fundraising half
319-377-6326
2201 7th Ave, Marion, IA 52302 Anytime, Everyday!

OUR SERVICES 377-6325

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✓ Glass Replacement
✓ Windshield Chip Repairs

MarionReachHigher.org 11

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Uptown 2019 Accomplishments

DDEESSIIGGNN Getting Main Street into top physical shape, while preserving our historical character
and creating a safe, inviting environment for shoppers, workers and visitors:

• Awarded5localgrantstotaling$3,053fortheSignageandAwningGrantProgramandbusinessimprovement
initiatives

2019 Accomplishments• Secured a $75,000 Iowa Challenge Grant for the Owen Building

• Added 77 new heroes banners totaling 128 banners ($6,250 raised for veteran services)
• Created a Virtual Reality History Tour of the Uptown District in conjunction with the Marion Public Library
• PrDoEvSidIGedNd| eGse�ignng cMoainnsSutrleteint igntsoetorpvpicheyssicaalnshdapdee, wsihgilne prreevseirevwingfoourr hUisptotroicwal nchadreacvteerloanpdmcreean�nt gparosajfee,citnsvi�ng
• Conduct•eednvA3irwoCnamrldeeeandtn5fUolorPcsahtloogpwrpaennrtssD,twoatoayrlkisnegtros$a3sn,0pd5rv3uisfioctorertshu:epSitghnaegedaisntdrAicwtning Grant Program and business improvement ini�a�ves
• Worked •witShectuhreedCai$t7y5,o00f0MIoawraioChnalolenngeaGnraunmt fobrethreoOfwpenroBjueilcditnsg including the removal of obsolete signage in the

Uptown•AreAadded 77 new heroes banners totaling 128 banners ($6,250 raised for veteran services)

• Created a Virtual Reality History Tour of the Uptown District in conjunc�on with the Marion Public Library

EECCOONN•••OOMMPCWrooonIrvICdkCidueecdtdewVddVite3hsIiICtTgThlneeAacACnoiUntyLsPLuotlof�IwIMTnTngaYsDrYeiaorynvsicotenosasapnnruduSdmcdetiebvruseeeiprgnrnotgshfreipetfhvrdyoieieijsnewtncrgiitfcnsotirigtnsUcolpeutudcoirwongcnnotdohememvremeilocmpuobmnvaaeitslnyoet’fps:oreobjsxeocilstestteinsgigneacgeoinnothme UicptaoswsneAtrseawhile

• Expanded Uptown Marion’s Commercial Real Estate Showcase to include residential living
• HoEsCtOedNfOifMthICloVcaITl AOLpITeYn|4StBreunsgitnheensinsg(oOur4cBom) mCuonmityp’seextiist�iongn,ecgornaomnticinagsse$t1s,w0h0ile0dsiveeresdifyifnugnitds iencognotomiRc obaoset:s in Bloom
• Complet••ed EHaxops2atenddpefiad�rUhtploctocoawlmnOMpmeanuri4onnBit’usysCinowemsismd(eeOr4csiBau)l CRroevmaelpEyes�tta�otoendS,higorrewancc�atnsefgut$ot1ui,n0rc0el0udisneeeirtdeiasfiudtnievdnei�nsagltlaoivsRinogpoatsritn Bolofotmhe Market Study MSI

Program• Completed a 2 part community wide survey to direct future ini�a�ves as part of the Market Study MSI Program
• Met with•29Mpertowsitphe2c9tpivroespbecu�svienbeussisneessselos loookkiinnggtotololcoatceainteUpintowUnpMtoarwionn Marion
• Celebrat•ed Ctheleeborapteedntihnegopaennidngeaxndpeaxnpsaniosionnooff 1122nnewewcomcmoemrcmial eterncainatlst(e3 nReasntatusra(n3tsR, 7eSsetravuicer,a2nRtest,ai7l) Service, 2 Retail)

PPRRPROOOMMM••OOOTITHCTOooINmsIOtOpeSdlNeN|t1eCS0Sdrceaoam�sunmcgcuaenspisCstofyuusrelier�v4raveQoentuiHtinmsnogaldidgaieanytpgoSohraeosrnpietepiwaivnsegc:oCimmammapuganiiegtnytptoorirdbeeoonasnetdwsatelecllsooumr smtouryntiotysuprrroiudnedinagnadretaes:ll our story to
• Hosted 1••0 cIConotm-rhoodmsutcueedndsititxhyeaneficrvhsteoUrncptotsomwmnuFnaitllyFeevsetn&tsDwogithFatshheioMnaSrhioonwChamber and Pla�num Community Partners
• Completed a successful 4Q Holiday Shopping Campaign to boost sales

• CoO-RhGosAtNedIZsAixTIaOnNch|oEsrtacbolismhimng uconnisteynseuvs eanndtcsowopietrha�tohnebMy baurilidoinng pCahrtanemrsbhiepsraamnodngPvlaaritoinusugmrouCpsotmhatmhauvneiatystaPkaerintnoeurrs
• Introduced the hfiisrtsotriUc cpotmomwernciaFladlilsFtreicst:t & Dog Fashion Show

• Re-accredited by Main Street Iowa and the Na�onal Main Street Center

OORRGGAA•••NNIIRSAZZoeclccduemioAvAueutdla�TT3tcekSdIeItOOat1st,eN0tNo6A82w0vao1r9ldusEnfatvEoets.raeDttrrahrhiieobnoVkuuli.ersss&th,egwBrianreitnoghMBuacaaprntoiosnontenatsr,hlsrev,aaanlietlsusaihnedugaeosorvfsva$ehe2nirp7ad$,,1a1s5cn1t9daKokeoceponienormaoituciogrrnhowibsttyhobriucilcdoinmgmpearrctniaelrdsihsitpriscat:mong

• RSoe-ldacocuret••dtiictekPCedarert�abstceyitpdoaMtth2eaed0iM1inn9atSihnEteraS2ettr0.ee1eDt9tIrCFoioanwmmkimal.yu&aFnrniiBteydneEdtxlMhychecaaonrmNigomaentiP�i,roeoregnartaaiosmlmiMnwagakitehionUMvpSoettourrwne$tne1V1aterpKCnlaoecnne tfoerrall ages
•

• Accumulated 1,068 volunteer hours, with a total value of $27,159

• Received 3 State Awards for the Veteran Banners, leadership, and economic growth

• Participated in the 2019 Community Exchange Program with Mount Vernon

• • Created the Main Street Family Friendly committee to make Uptown a place for all ages

12

Roots in Bloom O4B Winner

Celebra�ng New Businesses Dog Fashion Show Winner

“The Mission of the Uptown Marion Main Street Organiza�on is to drive con�nued revitaliza�on,
growth, and preserva�on of historic character through appropriate DESIGN, PROMOTION, and
ECONOMIC STRATEGIES that improve our community.”

Community Events

A Family Friendly Uptown

Since Becoming a Main Street District in 2013
+20M District Investments | 89 Business Starts & Expansions | 855K State Grants | +10K Volunteer Hours

Veteran Banner Program

Main Street Iowa Awards

Virtual Reality Historic Walking Tour Volunteers Cleaning-up Uptown

MarionReachHigher.org 13

MEDCO • MARION CHAMBER • UPTOWN MARION

Military Tribute Banners to Adorn Streetlights

The City of Marion, to local veteran programs. sponsorship opportunities Requests will be filled on a
Marion Chamber of This will be the 3rd year of become available, visit first-come, first-served basis
Commerce and Uptown the program with already http://tinyurl.com/ or until availability runs out.
Marion Main Street District over $6,000 donated to the marionmilitarybanners.
will again invite residents American Legion to assist
and local businesses to with veteran programs.
honor a veteran or active Each year a limited number
duty service member with of banners are available for
a military tribute banner on purchase and remain up for
city streetlights. two years during the time
frame noted above. Once
The banners will go up installed, a map will be
around Memorial Day published of the location of
and remain up through each veteran or active duty
Veterans Day. In addition service member sponsored.
to covering the cost of the
banner, a portion of the To be notified
sponsorship will be donated when 2021 banner

Explore Uptown Marion through Virtual Reality

Uptown Marion Main or anyone that may have
Street, in partnership with challenges physically walking
the Marion Public Library, around the district. On the
has developed a new platform tour, users can learn about
to explore the history of historical monuments,
Uptown Marion. In 2019, general Marion history,
Uptown Marion received a and see historic photos
$1,000 grant from the Linn superimposed over the
County Historic Preservation current day facades.
Commission to develop a A soft launch was held at
new historic walking tour the Uptown Farmers Market
through the use of Google during the 2019 Swamp Fox
Cardboard goggles. From festival. About 40 people of
there Brooke Prouty, program all ages tried out the tour
director of Uptown Marion and loved the experience.
Main Street, and Madeline To experience the tour for Uptown is currently looking opportunities to showcase
Jarvis, adult services manager yourself there is both a desktop for additional funding to it to Marion residents and
at the Marion Public Library, and virtual reality goggles expand the program and students.
created a virtual walking tour version. Go to Poly.Google.
of Uptown Marion with the com and search for Uptown adno=106362 Trust Us with your
help of University of Iowa Marion, for the desktop tour. Furnace& HVAC Needs!
student, Katie Chalstrom. For the virtual reality tour,
Google Cardboards can be
Through the virtual reality borrowed from the Marion
tour anyone can explore Public Library and utilize
Uptown Marion without your personal cell phone.
having to physically be there. With your phone you can
This allows for a broader download the Expeditions
audience to learn about app and search Uptown adno=106151
the history of Marion such Marion.
as schools, senior centers,

14

Save The Date For
These Uptown Marion Events!

WWeeee PPaarraaddee Saturday, March 14
1:30 p.m.

Come to Uptown for the 3rd annual St.Patrick's day miniature parade through the Uptown Artway.

Uptown Real Estate Showcase Thursday, April 2
5 to 7 p.m.

Whether you are a business owner, real estate professional or entrepreneur, join us for a look at the opportunities
in Uptown Marion. The showcase will begin with a short program followed by properties tour.

DDiinnee OOuutt ffoorr SScchhoooollss Thursday, April 16
All Day

Check out Uptown restaurants for lunch and dinner to support your local schools! A portion of the sales is
donated back to the Linn-Mar and Marion school districts. A list of participating locations can be found on
either school districts website.

Ladies Day Out Saturday, April 25
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Enjoy in-store specials throughout the day! Prizes will be handed out to the first 50 and 100 attendees.

Marion Arts Festival & 5K Saturday, May 16
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This one-day event showcases 50 high caliber artists from across the country. Admission is free to the public.
This competitive Half Marathon and 5K is a favorite for serious amateurs and recreational runners alike!

UUppttoowwnn MMaarriioonn MMaarrkkeett Saturday, June 13
8 a.m. to noon

Shop locally sourced goods and get to know local farmers and artisans while enjoying a festival-like
atmostphere.

Eat, Drink & Be Marion Thursday, July 8
5:30 to 9 p.m.

This Pub Crawl is a fun evening out in Uptown Marion to support the Main Street District's annual fundraiser.
Tickets will be available in June.

For future events visit UptownMarion.com

MarionReachHigher.org 15

1225 6th Avenue, Suite 100, Marion, Iowa 52302 PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
MARION, IA
PERMIT NO. 52

Willow Gardens
Care Center

“cozy and compassionate”

(319) 377-7363 NursiNg CAre adno=140675

455 31st Street, marion, ia Skilled, intermediate,
reSpite and HoSpice care
American Health Foundation, A Not-for-Profit Corporation Rehab Home or Stay long term

A Name You Can Trust Therapy Programs...
Physical, Occupational & speech
Care You Can
Count On cardiopulmonary program
Social Services • counseling

Specialized diets
recreational/Spiritual activities
Medicare • Medicaid • Private Pay

Most Private Insurances