Partnership
The
APRIL 2015
GREATER BURLINGTON PARTNERSHIP NEWSLETTER VOL. 95 NO. 4
PRESIDENT & CEO’S LETTER
Kay Sackville Breuer
Vice President
319-208-0041
kbreuer@greaterburlington.com
Belinda Colwell
THE VISION
Administrative Assistant
319-208-0042
bcolwell@greaterburlington.com
Mark Foster
FOR SCC’S FUTURE
Program Dir. Govt. Relations
and Young Prof. 319-208-0050
mfoster@greaterburlington.com
by Jason Hutcheson
Steve Frevert
Downtown Partners, Inc.
Exec. Dir. 319-208-0056
sfrevert@greaterburlington.com
As we look toward the future of economic development, talent will be the number one driver of projects. Those
communities that can train and attract talent will prosper. Those that can not will have very difficult days ahead.
For this reason and many others, Southeastern Community College has perhaps been an underappreciated gem
in Southeast Iowa.
Jason Hutcheson
President & CEO
319-208-0043
jhutcheson@greaterburlington.com
One could argue that despite strong efforts, our community college has not been successful enough in
developing tomorrow’s talent. Challenges and limitations in funding have forced the college to make difficult
decisions in recent years, and low cost academic programs have often overruled higher cost trades training. SCC
has always been an option for our area’s youth when it comes to education, but many would suggest that this
campus has not been viewed as the preferred option by some young people.
Sherri Krause
Since his arrival as president two years ago, Dr. Michael Ash has spent considerable time outlining a renewed
vision for the college’s future. It is not my place to outline his vision, but I would like to share with you some of
the prevailing concepts as I have interpreted them:
blevitt@greaterburlington.com
1.
Finance Manager
319-208-0044
skrause@greaterburlington.com
Brenda Levitt
Econ. Development Research
Coordinator 319-208-0047
Julie Meloan Bell
Welcome Ctr & Group Travel
Coordinator 319-208-0052
jmeloanbell@greaterburlington.com
hen talent leaves the area, the odds are against us. Although there are numerous success stories of
W
individuals returning to Southeast Iowa after being educated and gaining years of experience, many have left
never to return. If SCC can play a greater role in training and educating local talent, that talent is more likely
to take a local job and spend a lifetime in Southeast Iowa.
Rachel Lindeen
Dir. Member Services
319-208-0046
rlindeen@greaterburlington.com
2. Potential students must view SCC as a center of excellence. In order to effectively recruit students, the
college must position itself as a preferred institution among young people. There must be pride in the
campus and parents must be convinced that an education at SCC will result in long-term financial stability.
Chelsea Tolle
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Exec. Dir. 319-208-0045
ctolle@greaterburlington.com
3. Students want the college experience. There is something about campus life that helps develop young
people into career-ready individuals. Modern student housing, activity centers, and state-of-the-art
classrooms are all important considerations. Academic institutions must provide each of these elements if
they are to be relevant in the future.
Dr. Ash and the Board of Trustees have a bold vision for the future. It includes enhancements to facilities,
programs, messaging, and recruitment. While the vision includes the construction and renovation of buildings,
it is not simply about buildings or offices or classrooms. Rather, it is about positioning the college to be as
successful as possible.
The war for talent is intense. We have no option but to ensure SCC is a successful pipeline of talent development.
The Greater Burlington Partnership fully supports the vision of the college. I hope you’ll join the cause as we
collectively transform our community college into something to be envied.
David Toyer
Dir. of Economic Development
319-208-0053
dtoyer@greaterburlington.com
Brenda Wischmeier
Director of Marketing
319-208-0040
bwischmeier@greaterburlington.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Price is $24, which is
included in annual events fees. Non-members: $3
per issue. Periodicals postage paid at Burlington,
Iowa. POSTMASTER: The Partnership is published
monthly by the Greater Burlington Partnership 610
North Fourth Street, Suite 200, Burlington, Iowa
52601. POSTMASTER send address changes to
Greater Burlington Partnership (USPS 001-692) 610
North Fourth Street, Suite 200, Burlington, Iowa
52601
page 2
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • 319-752-6365
Partnership
The
APRIL 2015
GREATER BURLINGTON PARTNERSHIP NEWSLETTER VOL. 95 NO. 4
ON THE COVER
The volunteers manning the Port of Burlington Welcome Center
are the force that keeps the Welcome Center on course. The
dedicated volunteers are knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, fun
and love what they do. With 18 active volunteers on the roster,
the Welcome Center is able to run smoothly seven days a week.
Greeting the visitors that come through the doors is one of the
many volunteer duties. Most volunteers go above and beyond
what is expected. They offer coffee, have the guest book signed,
and give directions and/or recommendations. In 2014, 47 states
and more than 30 countries were represented at the Welcome
Center, creating many opportunties to showcase all that Greater
Burlington has to offer. Welcome Center volunteer Dennis
Fitzgibbon says it best. “Volunteering at The Port of Burlington
Welcome Center is a really fun way to help promote the Greater
Burlington area. Plus, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting interesting
people from all parts of the U.S. and from many other countries.
For example, I have chatted with visitors from Japan, Australia,
Germany, Denmark, Northern Ireland and Wales, just to name a
few. Where else but the Welcome Center provides such a unique
opportunity?”
If you would like to have this unique opportunity, we would love
to have you join our exceptional team of volunteers. Please contact
Julie Meloan Bell, Welcome Center & Group Travel Coordinator,
at 319-208-0052 or jmeloanbell@greaterburlington.com.
Pictured Left to Right:
Seated are Mary Marsh, Lou Harter, Shirley Wiley
Standing are Joe Neubel, Ed Minard, Milt Paule, Bob Petzinger
and Diane Sweeden
Not Pictured:
Barbara Sutter, Florence Paterno, Jeanette Fisher, Joann
Beckman, Joanne Hamilton, Julane Hugg, Al and Sue Kristensen,
Joyce Kuster, Dennis Fitzgibbon, Carol Hass and Cindy Brown
Photo Credits: Phil Pool, Omni Photography
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
page
3
SCOTT SIEPKER
IOWA NICE GUY
Scott Siepker, host of the Emmy nominated Iowa Outdoors on Iowa Public Television
and adjunct professor of acting at Drake University, will give the keynote at the
Small Business Appreciation Breakfast. Scott was the star of numerous viral videos
including Iowa Nice, Cyclone Nice and Hawkeye Nice. In addition, ESPN drafted him
to play the character “Iowa Nice Guy” on College Football Daily.
We encourage you to welcome Scott and honor area small businesses.
Chamber of Commerce members are encouraged to attend and honor small businesses.
Members receive four complimentary breakfasts. Additional breakfasts can be
purchased for $15.
To RSVP, contact Belinda Colwell, Administrative Assistant, by May 8 at 319-752-6365 or
bcolwell@greaterburlington.com. No cancellations or refunds after May 8.
SMALL BUSINESS APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
COMFORT SUITES CONFERENCE CENTER - MAY 15, 7:30 am
NOMINATE A SMALL BUSINESS
Do you know a small small business that has demonstrated outstanding achievements?
If so, take a moment and nominate them for Small Business of the Year.
You can nominate a business at www.greaterburlington.com
and click on the button “Nominate a Small Business”.
Questions regarding nominations? Contact Brenda Levitt, Economic
Development Research Coordinator, at blevitt@greaterburlington.com
or 319-208-0047.
Nominations are due by April 20. All for-profit entities in Des Moines
County who are members of the Chamber of Commerce and have
fewer than 100 employees are eligible.
page 4
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • 319-752-6365
DOWNTOWN BURLINGTON HELP
WELCOMES SPRING
WITH EVENTS AND MUCH MORE!
BEAUTIFY
BURLINGTON
SPRING SIP, TASTE & STROLL
With spring in the air, it’s time to enjoy the Spring Sip, Taste & Stroll
in downtown Burlington! The event takes place on April 24 from 5
to 8 pm. Representatives will be on hand at participating businesses
to provide samples from wineries and distributors throughout the
region. It’s a perfect way to try some new tastes and browse some
great shops.
Discounted advance tickets are $15 at the Iowa Store or Weird
Harold’s through April 23. The cost will be $20 the day of the event at
registration, located at the Iowa Store and at 500 Jefferson. Tickets get
you a map of locations and a complimentary glass. The event is open
to those 21 or older. Thank you to Country Friends for sponsoring
the Sip, Taste & Stroll.
DECORATE A COUNTY SEAT
The Downtown Partners Design committee is again seeking
creative entries for the popular “County Seat Project”
to decorate wooden benches that will be placed around
downtown this summer.
The Downtown Partners Design committee will pick the
best designs, and the winning entrants will paint the benches.
Applications may be downloaded at www.greaterburlington.
com/downtown/things-to-see/county-seat-project.
www.greaterburlington.com/downtown
On April 18, participants of all
ages are invited to come out for
the 15th annual Earth Day Clean
Up. Volunteers can register at the
Port of Burlington at 8:30 am.
After picking up litter, return to
the Port for a free lunch, music,
door prize and a group photo.
In 2014, hundreds of volunteers
picked up over 4 tons of trash.
Join your fellow citizens and lend
a hand in caring for our
piece of earth.
FOLLOW US ON
www.greaterburlington.com
319-752-6365
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
page
5
HWY 61 COALITION
AREA STUDENTS
LEARN ABOUT A VARIETY
SHOWS SUPPORT FOR
INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING OF CAREER OPPORTUNITES
It’s been more than two decades in the making, but Iowa will see a much
needed increase in infrastructure funding thanks to the signing into law
of Senate [File Bill] 257. Cognizant of the fact that the remaining miles
of Highway 61 will not be completed without additional dollars, the
Highway 61 Coalition has been leading the charge for a gas tax increase for
many years. In 2014, the coalition hired Jeff Boeyink, LS2 Group, to lobby
on behalf of the fuel tax increase. With his leadership as the former
chief-of-staff for Governor Branstad, he along with many others, relayed
the major needs for the additional dollars.
Even though greater revenue will be going toward Iowa’s roads and
bridges, the Highway 61 Coalition still has work to do as they continue
to lobby for making the remaining 36.2 miles four lanes.
How your legislators voted on SF257: Senator Tom Courtney, nay.
Representative Tom Sands, nay. Representative Dennis Cohoon, yea.
LOBBYING ON YOUR BEHALF
Des Moines County students recently had the opportunity to discover
new interests and ask questions about current careers at the annual
5th and 8th grade Career Fairs. Each fair was hosted by the Future
Workforce committee of the Greater Burlington Partnership and held
at Southeastern Community College March 16 and 17.
A total of 462 students from Mediapolis, West Burlington, Aldo
Leopold and Edward Stone participated. The students learned about
careers in six different career pathways including agriscience, arts/
communication, human services, health sciences, business/marketing
and engineering.
Each year more than 40 area business people volunteer their time to
give students a look at a multitude of careers. We greatly appreciate
their time and efforts. Thank you also goes to the sponsors Hawkeye
Pedershaab, Iowa Fertilizer Company and PPG Industries for making
this event possible.
Have you ever wanted to see Washington, D.C.? The monuments, the
Capitol Building, the White House? Consider joining the Great River
Region for the annual lobbying trip to D.C. June 24-26.
Join members from all over Southeast Iowa as they travel to meet
with Senators Grassley and Ernst and Congressman Loebsack. In
addition to the Iowa delegation the group is looking to spend time
with prospective Presidential candidates. Finally, significant time is
spent with staff members discussing area projects and federal issues
that impact the region.
“We meet with a lot of people in a few days,” said Mark Foster,
Government Relations Director. “Voicing the opinions and concerns
of Southeast Iowa is a must, and this trip is just one of the many times
we interact with our federal delegation.”
For more information, about this program contact Mark Foster at
mfoster@greaterburlington.com or 319-208-0050.
page 6
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • (319) 752-6365
GREATER
BURLINGTON
YOUNG
PROFESSIONALS
LUNCH & LEARN
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE MONTH
THE LOFT ON JEFFERSON
APRIL 7, 12-1 pm
Eva Castillo, Hope Haven Area Development Center
Buying a home is one of the most important purchases of your life.
Consult our expert panel to learn some helpful tidbits about going
through each step of the process.
BIZ TOUR
WINEGARD COMPANY
APRIL 22, 5:15 & 5:30 pm
Get an inside look at this world class designer and manufacturer of
antennas. This is your chance to tour the facility and meet with top
company officials, expanding your network.
All events are free for Young Professionals members, $15 for nonmembers. First event is complimentary for prospective members.
RSVP’s are required via the Facebook events or contacting Mark Foster,
YP Program Director, at youngprofessionals@greaterburlington.com.
Hometown: Dallas City, Illinois
YP Member: 3 Years
“Joining YP is a great way to network and be a part of all
the amazing things happening in Greater Burlington.”
How do you encourage YP involvment: “Talking to
members of YP and attending events to learn more about it.”
Fun Fact: “When co-workers are away on vacation, I like to
“redecorate” their office space. Most recently it involved a three
foot by four foot poster of my co-worker and me.”
2015
PRESENTING
SPONSOR www.midwestonebank.com
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
page
7
PICTURE YOUR BUSINESS DOWNTOWN
With Main Street Iowa and the Iowa Economic Development
Authority, Downtown Partners announces a new program to boost local
business development efforts. The Open 4 Business competition is a
chance for entrepreneurs to try out their business ideas for downtown
Burlington. Each of the state’s 52 Main Street organizations can submit
one business to represent their program. The business can be either
new or expanding, but it must be for-profit and plan to locate within the
Main Street district.
In Burlington, the Downtown Partners Business Development
Committee will select three applicants to pitch their ideas. The winner
will be awarded a rental assistance grant if they open in downtown.
In addition, they will go on to one of five regional competitions in June
for a chance at $8,000. The five regional finalists will present their ideas
in a statewide contest in August for an additional $20,000 in funding.
For more information and an application, contact Steve Frevert,
Executive Director of Downtown Partners, at
sfrevert@greaterburlington.com or 319-208-0056.
DOWNTOWN SPACES
FEATURED IN OPEN HOUSE
Could downtown Burlington be in your business future? Here’s a way
to find out! Downtown Partners is holding a Commercial Space Open
House to introduce entrepreneurs to available locations for lease or
purchase. People interested in relocating, expanding, or opening a
business in downtown Burlington will be able
to visit the spaces and explore the opportunities.
The Open House is free and takes place on April 19 from 12 to 4 pm.
Register in the lobby of the Burlington Apartments, 206 N. 3rd, to
pick up a directory map to the locations, as well as information about
incentives, business support activities, and recent and future downtown
projects. Property representatives will be on hand at each location to
show the space and answer questions.
If you are a downtown property owner interested in having your
marketable space included as a location, contact
sfrevert@greaterburlington.com or 319-208-0056 prior to April 10.
FARMERS MARKET VENDORS SOUGHT
Downtown Partners is gearing up for the 2015 season of the Riverfront
Farmers Market. The market, supported by Great Western Bank, will
take place at the Port of Burlington on Thursdays from 5 to 7 pm
beginning May 7. Several special markets will also take place on
Jefferson Street.
Vendors selling produce, food, baked goods or crafts interested in
being part of the region’s most successful farmers market can download
an application and guidelines at www.greaterburlington.com or contact
Steve Frevert, Executive Director of Downtown Partners at
sfrevert@greaterburlington.com or 319-208-0056.
page
8
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • 319-752-6365
LEADERSHIP SERIES
PROMOTES GROUP PROJECT
The 2014-2015 Greater Burlington Leadership class needs you
to Volunteer Now! Volunteer Now! hopes to raise awareness for
local non-profits and increase volunteer hours in order to have a
lasting, positive impact in Des Moines County and the surrounding
communities.
Volunteer NOW! is excited to partner with local organizations to get
this information into the community. The class decided that raising
awareness for these organizations is vital to the project. Volunteer
NOW! is committed to completing 5,000 new volunteer hours over
the next calendar year. In addition, the class members pledged 1,000
hours of their own time. One hour of volunteer time in Iowa was valued
at $20.93 in 2013. If Volunteer NOW! is able to meet its goal of 5,000
hours pledged, $104,650.00 of service would be generated, giving back
to Des Moines County and improving quality of life.
HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE?
• “Like” Volunteer NOW! on Facebook
• Pledge your time to volunteer. Pledge new additional volunteer
hours for the next calendar year. Fill out the pledge form at
www.greaterburlington.com under the Volunteer NOW! box
or on Facebook on the Volunteer NOW! page.
• Stop by a Volunteer NOW! booth. Booths will be manned by
organizers during various times and locations from March
through May.
• Be on the lookout for more information including a website that
connects volunteers and a brochure with contact information,
basic needs and prerequisites needed to volunteer.
VOLUNTEER NOW!
SIGN UP BOOTHS
Young Professionals Lunch
April 7, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Eagles #150 Breakfast
April 12, 9 - 11 am
Burlington High School Health Fair
April 15, 8:30 am -1:15 pm
YOU CAN
MAKE A
DIFFERENCE
VOLUNTEER NOW!
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
page
9
NEW MEMBERS
Glik’s
550 S Gear Ave, Ste 40, West Burlington, 618-576-6717, www.gliks.com
Kristi Ham, Director of Marketing, kristiham@gliks.com
Glik’s is a family owned 118 year old apparel and footwear store chain with 60
locations in nine Midwestern states .The Westland mall store location features
Juniors and Crossover women’s fashions. Additionally, men’s and young men’s
fashion will also be featured.
CELEBRATING
BUSINESS SUCCESSES
J.D. Electric/J.D. Solar
715 Valley St, Burlington, 319-754-7686, www.jdelectriciowa.com
Troy Dodge, Vice President, jdelectric@jdelectriciowa.com
J.D. Electric has built livelihood on designing and providing quality solutions
from the simple to the lavish, they have experienced it all and can help you every
step of the way. No job is too small or too big for their knowledgeable crews.
J.D. Electric has happily done it all for 26 years now!
Seither and Cherry Company
2537 Henkel Ave, Keokuk, 319-524-5472, www.seithercherry.com
Corby Hawkins, Business Development, info@seithercherry.com
Since 1872, Seither & Cherry Company has used constructive technology to
create a long list of satisfied customers. Capabilities include turn-key projects,
steel erection, heavy rigging, millwright precision alignment, equipment
installation, mechanical, instrumentation, electrical work and concrete work.
Our long relationship with the building trades enables us to provide our
customers with a productive and dependable labor force.
QUARTERLY COFFEE
CELEBRATES MEMBERS
The Quarterly Coffee is a fantastic way to market your business and
network! Members receive time on the agenda to inform the crowd
about what’s happening at their business.
The Quarterly Coffee offers you and your business the spotlight.
Members can promote a new employee, awards and honors,
expansions and moves, events and new Chamber of Commerce
memberships.
GREAT RIVER CARDIOLOGY
Great River Cardiology staff and Chamber of Commerce
Ambassadors celebrate the Grand Opening of Great River
Cardiology located at 1221 S Gear Ave, Ste 109, West Burlington.
The Quarterly Coffee will be April 10 at 8:30 am at the Greater
Burlington Partnership. If you are unable to join us, mark your
calendar for August 11. The Quarterly Coffee is open to all Chamber
of Commerce members and their employees.
To be placed on the agenda for April 10, contact Rachel Lindeen,
Director of Member Services, at rlindeen@greaterburlington.com.
The Board of Directors asks fellow business and organizational leaders to help the Chamber of Commerce
by renewing their memberships. The renewing members are listed as of March 13.
Members listed in bold also made voluntary contributions.
Access Energy Cooperative
Alcohol & Drug Dependency Service
of SE Iowa
Alter Metal Recycling
Alzheimer’s Association
American Ordnance
Anytime Fitness
Arnold Refrigeration, Inc.
Beckman Law Offices, P.L.C.
Bella Ragazza
Bob Dodds Insurance Agency
Bridgeway
Burke Installed
Burlington Bees Baseball Association
Burlington Kennel Club
Casa Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
Diamond Vogel Paint Center
page 10
Dolores’ Resale Shop
Ebert Supply
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Farm King Supply
Farmers & Merchants Bank & Trust
First United Methodist Church
Fleck Sales Co.
Formalities
Flynn & Boyle’s Co.
Gibbar Electric
Guaranteed Clean
Halo Hair Studio
Hawkeye Pedershaab
Home Caring Services
Ideal Ready Mix Company
Industrial Motors
Industrial Service Corp.
ITC Midwest
J & A Printing
J & S Electronic Business Systems
Jonescapes
Life Solutions Behavioral
Health Services
Luv Ya Like A Sister
Michael J Monfils Training
and Development
Mississippi Valley Callers Association
Parties Unlimited
Per Mar Security Services
Pizza Hut WingStreet
Speed Queen Fabric Care Center
E.G. Staats & Co.
Super 8 Motel
Swanson, Gordon, Benne, Clark &
Kozlowski, L.L.L.P.
Dr. Larry Taylor
Tenderfoot Carpets, L.P.
Tyson Fresh Meats
U.S. Cellular
Vernon Company - Andrea Riley
Vetter’s, Inc. - Culligan Water
Technologies
Video Production Services of Iowa
Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Wendi Riggens Photography
West Burlington Honda
Wireless Central
WorkSource
Wunderlich Excavating & Plumbing
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • 319-752-6365
80th ANNIVERSARY AFTER HOURS
CELEBRATING 80 YEARS
RHEINSCHMIDT’S FLOORING AMERICA
APRIL 2, 5-7 pm
Join us with your co-workers to build your
network at Rheinschmidt’s Flooring America at
1201 N. Roosevelt Ave. Help them celebrate doing
business in Greater Burlington for 80 years.
www.rheinschmidtsflooringamerica.com
ITALY AWAITS YOU
BOOK BY APRIL 6 AND SAVE $200
It’s not too late to take the trip of a lifetime! Reflections of Italy awaits you and offers
a breathtaking experience.
You will enjoy guided tours and tastings of Italy, October 12-21, 2015. The trip includes
round trip airfare, taxes, fees and surcharges, hotels, transfers, guided tours and 14 meals.
Your itinerary includes guided tours and visits to Rome, “The Eternal City,” the
Colosseum, a visit to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis, a visit to the world-famous
academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s incredible statue of David, a lunch tour at a
historic winery, an up-close glass making demonstration on Murano Island and many
magnificent cathedrals.
Your experience can also include optional tours to the Vatican, a Tuscan feast, Rome
by night and a Venetian serenaded gondola cruise.
For more information, contact Kay Sackville Breuer at kbreuer@greaterburlington.com
or 319-208-0041 or Marcia Luers, Burlington Trailways at 319-753-2864 ext. 135.
WHAT ARE THE
BENEFITS OF A
CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
MEMBERSHIP?
Rachel Lindeen, Director of Member Services
Can Answer That Question!
rlindeen@greaterburlington.com
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
page
11
To Submit Calendar Information
APRIL
www.greaterburlington.com/events_submission.cfm
3 - Devin Clemons Band
The Boogaloo Cafe - 10 pm
www.thepzazz.com
19 - Buy, Sell & Trade Flea Market
Southeastern Community College - 6 am
319-392-8177
3 - Slocum 50 Kickoff Party
Roederers Pit Stop- 5:55 pm
www.brentslocumfoundation.com
20 - Civic Music Presents: Maureen McGovern
Memorial Auditorium - 7:30 pm
www.burlcivicmusic.com
3 & 4 - Young Frankenstein: The Musical
Capitol Theater - 7 pm
www.burlingtoncapitoltheater.com
25 - STEM Festival
Southeastern Community College - 10 am - 2pm
www.iowayoungbirders.org
6 - Leadership Training for Managers w/Dale Carnegie
RiverPark Place/CBIZ
www.scciowa.edu
25 - Iowa Young Birders Field Trip
Starr’s Cave Nature Center - 9 am - 12pm
www.iowayoungbirders.org
10 & 11 - Genealogy Workshop
Burlington Public Library & Capitol Theater
www.burlington.lib.ia.us
Multiple Dates:
Bees Schedule, visit www.gobees.com
Burlington RecPlex, visit www.burlingtonrecplex.com
10 - Mullet River Boys
Starr’s Cave Nature Center - 7:30 - 9 pm
www.dmcounty.com
2015
COMMUNITY
GUIDES
PARTNERSHIP
HAPPENINGS
12 - Father Daughter Dance
PZAZZ! Event Center - 2 pm
www.facebook.com/FatherDaughter
DanceBurlingtonIA
2 - 80th Anniversay After Hours
Rheinschmidt’s Flooring America - 5 - 7 pm
13 - 17 - OSHA 10 & OSHA 30
RiverPark Place/CBIZ
www.scciowa.edu
7 - Young Professionals Lunch & Learn
The Loft on Jefferson 12 pm
14 - Alcohol & Drug Awareness for Managers
RiverPark Place/CBIZ
www.scciowa.edu
17 - ‘80s Rock & Pop Band: Members Only
The Boogaloo Cafe - 10 pm
www.thepzazz.com
18 - Earth Day Clean Up
Port of Burlington - 8:30 am
319-753-8131
10 - Quarterly Coffee
Greater Burlington Partnership - 8:30 am
16 - Business After Hours
Drake Hardware & Software - 5 - 7pm
18 - Eggs & Issues
Greater Burlington Partnership - 7:15 am
19 - Commercial Space Open House
Downtown Burlington - 12 - 4 pm
18 - Slocum 50
34 Raceway - 6 pm
www.brentslocumfoundation.com
Contact Chelsea Tolle to order your
supply at 319-208-0045.
BE SOCIAL
Get updates on recent news
and events from the Greater
Burlington Partnership via
social media. For links, visit
www.greaterburlington.com.
22 - Young Professional Biz Tour
Winegard - 5:15 & 5:30 pm
18 - Iowa Rock ‘n’ Roll Celebration
PZAZZ! Event Center - 7 pm
www.thepzazz.com
24 - Spring Sip, Taste & Stroll
Downtown Burlington - 5 - 8 pm
ETHANOL IS
CLEAN.
Big River Resources
Highway 34 & Beaverdale Rd
West Burlington
319-753-1100
www.BigRiverResources.com
page 12
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • 319-752-6365
The SE Iowa STEM Festival will be held April 25, 10 am - 2 pm
at Southeastern Community College in West Burlington. STEM
stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
A STEM festival is an awe-inspiring day featuring educational and
entertaining activities, performances and exhibits to boost children’s
interest in STEM. The goal of the festival is to nurture interest in
children and families in the exciting fields of science, technology,
engineering and math.
The SE Iowa STEM Festival is being produced by the Governor’s
STEM Advisory Council in partnership with the Greater Burlington
Partnership, Southeastern Community College, Great Prairie
AEA, ISU Extension and local businesses and community leaders.
Activities will be developed and presented by STEM experts from
business, higher education, community organizations and informal
education venues
While this fair targets 5th thru 8th graders, all ages are welcome.
Pre-registration is not required. Students are encouraged to
preregister at www.se.iowastem.org/southeast-ia-stem-festival.
Students may also register at the event.
NOTRE DAME LAUNCHES CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
Burlington Notre Dame Catholic School launched its first capital
campaign since 1995. “Faith in Our Future,” a two-tiered campaign,
hopes to raise $2.4 million for Notre Dame. With the highest
enrollment in more than 10 years and a 100% graduation rate,
Notre Dame serves a vital role in the community. Campus-wide
improvements are needed to keep pace with 21st century education.
Several years of study and strategic planning helped shape and
organize the plan and a Steering committee will direct the projects.
The Notre Dame Foundation is overseeing the capital campaign and
asks that community members help them reach their goal.
For more information on how you can make a donation, contact Val
Giannettino, Development Director, at val.giannettino@bnotredame.org
or 319-754-8431 ext. 385.
SMALL BUSINESS RECYCLING
NOMINEES SOUGHT
If your business has 100 or fewer employees and you have
a recycling or waste reduction program in place, we want
to hear about it! Nominations are being accepted for the
2015 Small Business Waste Reduction and Recycling
Awards to be presented at the Small Business Appreciation
Breakfast on May 15 at the Comfort Suites Conference
Center. Last year’s recipients were Bickel’s Cycling and
Fitness and Summer Street Animal Clinic.
For nomination materials and information, contact
Darven Kendell at dkendell@dmcwaste.org. Nomination
deadline is April 30.
NEW LOCATION FOR CLEAN OUT YOUR
FILES DAY
Des Moines County Regional Solid Waste Commission
hosts the 17th annual Clean Out Your Files Day on
April 16, 8 am - 4 pm at the Area Recyclers facility at
1818 W. Burlington Ave. Area businesses and residents
are encouraged to review their files and recycle old or
unused paper (unlimited amounts per person). Hope
Haven will be on site for collection of confidential
documents such as bank statements, tax forms,
credit card statements and similar documents (2 bag
maximum per person).
For more information contact Darven Kendell at
dkendell@dmcwaste.org or 319-753-8126.
GENEALOGY WORKSHOP AT LIBRARY
Burlington Public Library Foundation is sponsoring its 13th
annual Genealogy Workshop on April 10 and April 11.
Call the Burlington Public Library at 319-753-1647 or
visit www.burlington.lib.ia.us to register. Seating is limited,
and advance reservations are required.
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
Member Information
SE IOWA TO HOLD STEM FESTIVAL
page
13
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
DRAKE HARDWARE &
SOFTWARE
APRIL 16, 5-7 pm
Join us with your co-workers to build your network at
Business After Hours and grow your business!
Brought to you by the Greater Burlington Partnership
Drake Hardware & Software
211 N. 5th St.
Burlington
www.drakehs.com
EGGS & ISSUES
APRIL 18, 7:15 am
HOW NOT
TO SUCK AT
POWERPOINT!
BE A MARKETING NINJA
MAY 12 at 12 - 1 pm (DATE CHANGE)
Winegard Board Room
It’s your final opportunity of the legislative session. Meet with
Senator Courtney, Representative Cohoon and Representative
Sands at 7:30 am, April 18 in the Winegard Board Room.
Breakfast will be ready at 7:15 am for $5.
RSVP to Mark Foster, Government Relations Program Director,
at mfoster@greaterburlington.com or
319-208-0050 by April 18.
Your powerpoint can make an impact in two ways: it can suck or
it can rock. Which would you prefer? Let Jeff Ebbing, Marketing
Director at Southeastern Community College give you some tips
on how to WOW colleagues and customers with a presentation
that has both power and a point.
Free to Chamber of Commerce members. Bring your lunch,
listen, share and learn. Business owners, marketing staff, human
resources and administrative staff are encouraged to attend.
RSVP to Belinda Colwell, Administrative Assistant at
bcolwell@greaterburlington.com or 319-752-6365 by May 11.
Sponsored by: Des Moines County Republicans
Sponsored by: Edward Jones - Joel Sieren
www.greaterburlington.com
www.greaterburlington.com
page 14
RiverPark Place • 610 North 4th Street, Suite 200 • Burlington, Iowa 52601 • 319-752-6365
COST OF LIVING
LEVITT GOES OUT AND
ABOUT COMPARING
Ever wondered when you hear a cost of living comparison how
they arrive at those numbers? You might be surprised to find out
there is usually one person searching for those numbers. If you are
picturing someone walking around town with a clipboard you are
right! In Greater Burlington, Brenda Levitt, Economic Development
Research Coordinator, is that person. The cost of living index
compares more than 50,000 prices covering 60 different items at
various locations. There are six components that are considered
including housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, health care
and miscellaneous goods and services.
The good news is among the 281 urban areas, Greater Burlington
ranked almost 12% below the national average. The highest
composite index, at more than twice the national average, is New
York (Manhattan). Greater Burlington also has the lowest cost of
living out of the seven other participating communities in Iowa.
So how does Greater Burlington compare to cities across Iowa and
nationally? Visit www.greater burlington.com, under the business
and industry tab and you will find a cost of living calculator where
you can make comparisons with any of the 281 participating cities.
The Cost of Living Index is published quarterly by C2ER–The
Council for Community and Economic Research.
PARTNERSHIP
HOSTS BLOOD DRIVE
In 2000, the Chamber of Commerce held its first mobile blood drive
at the previous office on Jefferson St. In the many years since then, the
Chamber of Commerce and Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center
have held numerous drives together.
The Greater Burlington Partnership is sponsoring a month-long blood
drive at the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center at 3407 Agency St.,
April 1–30. As an extra incentive, all presenting donors will be entered in
a drawing to win a one-night pass to Burlington Steamboat Days.
“Greater Burlington shall be a growing center
of commerce, industry, education, healthcare,
entertainment and culture, providing a great place
to live, work and operate a business.”
Vision of the Greater Burlington Partnership
MEET JULIE MELOAN BELL
The Greater Burlington Partnership is pleased to welcome Julie Meloan Bell as the new Welcome Center
& Group Travel Coordinator of the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Julie will be working with the staff
and volunteers at the Port of Burlington Welcome Center, as well as promoting Greater Burlington to the
group travel industry.
Julie was born in Monmouth, Illinois and grew up in Henderson County. Throughout her life, she has
had the opportunity to explore different communities while working in the fields of education, health
care and sales. Most recently, Julie has been serving as a Visitor Information Counselor at the Port of
Burlington Welcome Center. In her free time, Julie enjoys spending time with her three children who
live in Iowa City and California. She is also a volunteer for the Great River Hospice.
If you have visitors in town or are looking for travel related information, stop down at the Welcome
Center and Julie will be happy to assist you. “I truly look forward to working every day with our
knowledgeable volunteers, meeting the visitors and promoting the Greater Burlington area,” said Julie.
Julie can be reached at jmeloanbell@greaterburlington.com or 319-208-0052.
info@greaterburlington.com • www.greaterburlington.com
page
15
RiverPark Place
610 N. Fourth St., Suite 200
Burlington, Iowa 52601
TELEPHONE 319-752-6365
FAX 319-752-6454
E-MAIL info@greaterburlington.com
WEB SITE www.greaterburlington.com
BIKE RENTALS ARE BACK
GREATER BURLINGTON PARTNERSHIP
BIKE GREATER BURLINGTON!
APRIL - OCTOBER
Do you wish there was a new way to explore Greater Burlington? Do you dream of riding
the Flint River Trail, but don’t own a bicycle? Well, wish no more, because bike rentals are
available at the Port of Burlington Welcome Center!
Take advantage of this opportunity to explore Crapo or Dankwardt Parks, Downtown
Burlington, Flint River trial or many other possibilities. Regular and tandem bicycles are
offered through a partnership with Nick’s Cycling and Fitness. Choose to use the bike for
an hour, half-day or full-day rental. Trail-a-bike and kiddie trailers are also available to allow
for a family outing. All rentals include the use of a helmet and bike lock. Bring a form of
identification to the Welcome Center to start your adventure today!
Bike rentals are available April – October during normal business hours of the Welcome
Center. For more information, visit www.greaterburlington.com or call 319-752-8731.
HOURLY
HALF DAY
FULL DAY
Follow Us On
BIKE
$7
$18
$28
TANDEM
$13
$30
$50