Pearl City ProgressNewsletter for the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Volume 21 Number 1 January 2012

GMCCI works to improve the business climate and community quality of life by taking a leadership role in the areas of business growth, recruitment, information, advocacy, community marketing, improvement initiatives, leadership

development, and visitor services.

Promoting a Vibrant and Sustainable Economy Will Help Ignite MuscatineOn Tuesday, December 13, The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry kicked-off the 2012-2015 Economic Development Fundraising Campaign held at Geneva Golf & Country Club.

Muscatine is the place where people are changing the world by making things happen. Every day, people in Muscatine are creating products that make the world a better place. Muscatine has always been known for its history of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and its hard-working people. What better place than here for all of us to bring our collective abilities together for the betterment of all.

This is exactly what ignite Muscatine (iM) is all about.

iM - Involved in Muscatine.iM - Interested in improving Muscatine.iM - Intellectually engaged.iM - Indebted to Muscatine.iM - Inspired by Muscatine’s leaders and community members.iM - Invested in Muscatine.iM - Inactive, but want to help Muscatine improve.iM - Insert your own adjective to describe how you can help.

If Muscatine can ignite its huge arsenal of intellectual weapons and focus theircombined power, like a laser, on the problems at hand within our community, nothing will be able to stand in the way of its future. Time and complacency are Muscatine’s worst enemies.

We must act now and ignite our collective spirits, talents, resources and intelligence to set this community on a new trajectory to the future.

iM - not alone in this desire, how can we help ignite the flame?

Greg Kistler, President, Central State Bank, speaks of the future Economic Development Campaign Initiatives, at the Economic Development Campaign Kick-Off, Tuesday, December 13, at the Geneva Golf & Country Club.

Doug Krieger, Krieger Motors, speaks to the crowd at the Economic Development Campaign Kick-Off, Tuesday, December 13, at the Geneva Golf & Country Club.

GMCCI Board of Directors2010-2011

OfficersChair of the BoardDavid Penn, MonsantoChair ElectCara Fuller, Bridgestone BandagImmediate Past ChairScott Ingstad, First National BankTreasurer & Chair-FinanceRick Smith, Stanley ConsultantsChair – MembershipLynn Allison, Ruhl & RuhlChair – Community DevelopmentPam Collins, Musser Public LibraryChair - Economic DevelopmentDoug Krieger, Krieger Motor CompanyChair - Public PolicyCara Fuller, Bridgestone Bandag Chair - Tourism and HospitalityTom Hendricks, Taco John’s of Muscatine

DirectorsLynn Allison, Ruhl & RuhlBob Allbee, Muscatine Community CollegeDoug Buster, Fabricators PlusGary Carlson, HNI CorporationPam Collins, Musser Public LibraryBill Decker, Muscatine Community School DistrictCara Fuller, Bridgestone Bandag, LLCBrenda Garcia-Van Auken, State Farm InsuranceNick Gow, Young Professionals NetworkTom Green, H.J. Heinz, L.P.Kevin Harle, SSABJames Hayes, Trinity MuscatineTom Hendricks, Taco John’s of MuscatineStan Howe, Member EmeritusScott Ingstad, First National BankSteve Jameson, Muscatine JournalGreg Kistler, Central State BankPaul Kraushaar, Muscatine Physical TherapyDoug Krieger, Krieger Motor CompanyJohn Kuhl, Muscatine Foods CorporationSal LoBianco, Muscatine Power & WaterGregg Mandsager, City of MuscatineJay McKee, McKee Button CompanyAnn Meeker, Pearl PlazaDave Mohr, Eastern Iowa Light & PowerBrett Nelson, Musco Lighting, LLCKasey O’Kelly, Hy-Vee DrugstoreDan Paca, Kent FeedsDavid Penn, MonsantoJim Reynolds, Reynolds EngineeringGary Slight, Community BankRick Smith, Stanley ConsultantsNancy Snaadt, Alliant EnergyDave Watkins, Muscatine County

Renewed MembersCongratulations to the following members, who celebrate their GMCCI membership anniversary in January!

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Allbee & Barclay, P.C.Muscatine JournalAlliant EnergyDaufeldt Transport, IncFamily Eye & Contact Lens CenterMonsanto CompanyMuscatine County Abstract CoCity of MuscatineLutheran HomesMuscatine MallGerdau AmeristeelSulzberger Excavating IncWester Drug IncHy-Vee DrugstoreMuscatine Community CollegeDallas Group of AmericaMuscatine Community SchoolsCommunity BankCurtis Financial ServicesEdward Jones Investments-Bob SheetsMusco Sports Lighting LLCNeal’s Vacuum & Sewing CenterCarriage House Carpet OneState Farm Insurance - Bob KeigRiver’s Edge GalleryPrecision Equipment, LLC.CDS GlobalMuscatine Used Parts, IncBurke CleanersInvestment Center of MuscatineCharles J. LewisNepple Law Offices, PLCEnvironmental Services, IncThe Flower GalleryMuscatine Community YRaymond-Muscatine, Inc.Riverside Animal HospitalTeam Staffing Solutions, Inc.Tru Art Color GraphicsFast Ave One Stop #9

68686754515045434141373636353534343232313030282824232222191918181717161616161615

Lucas Communication IncSt. Ambrose UniversityAmeriprise FinancialBiotek Associates InternationaldciPrint.comHolmes Collision RepairKellor & Kellor Landscape IncLouisa-Muscatine Community School Dist.Missipi BrewMuscatine Family RestaurantNelson Electric, Inc.Noble Construction IncQuest Liner IncReynolds Engineering & Equipment, Inc.Strawberry Farm Bed & BreakfastTanTara Transportation CorpVan Meter Industrial IncDirect MaytagLofgren InvestmentsRochelle ConwayWhite Distribution & Supply, Inc.Matthews Office Equipment, Inc.Absorbent Technologies IncSycamore PrintingVillage Profile.comJerry CoffmanState Farm Insurance - Garcia-VanAukenYellow Book USADale Carnegie TrainingThe RendezvousMuscatine Urgent CareSenior ResourcesGrapeTree Medical Staffing, Inc.Voluntary Benefit Services, Inc.Wine-NutzMuscatine Connected Education FoundationQuizno’s SubWomen’s Connection, IncFitzgerald Construction

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YearsYears

January 12Business After Hours5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Plamor Lanes

January 17Muscatine Employer’s Council

Child Labor LawsPresented by: Gail A. Sheridan-Lucht, Attorney for the Labor Commissioner,

Iowa Division of Labor ServicesNoon – 1:00 p.m.

ISU Extension Office

Upcoming GMCCI EventsJanuary 19

YPN’s Third Thursday/Annual Meeting5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The Button Factory Wood Fire Grille

January 24Techno Tuesdays

Smart Phones for Smart BusinessesPresented by: Conn Communications

8:00 – 9:30 a.m.GMCCI Office

GMCCI members got into the holiday spirit during an evening of social networking at Business After Hours on Thursday, December 8, hosted by Conn Communications.

Members had the chance to browse the Conn Communications store, which showcased their U.S. Cellular products and services, along with special holiday specials geared towards their customers.

Conn Communications donated many gift

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6 majors available at MCC Muscatine campus

online and at night!

Bachelor Degrees that fit your schedule!

800.582.2383

See us at www.iwc.edu/exl

Conn Communications Hosted Holiday Themed Business After Hours

items for door prizes, the winners were as follows. Blackberry 9850 Torch Phone, Melanie Hinman, 1862 Mortgage; Travel Charger, Mick Lick, Muscatine Power & Water; Travel Charger, Tom Hendricks, Taco Johns; Can Kooze with Car Charger and Phone Wipes to the following: Charlie & Jean Harper, Harper’s Cycling & Fitness, Warren Schwandke, Muscatine Journal and Jim Stein, Central State Bank.

Members of First National Bank of Muscatine were chosen to be featured as

January’s Member Spotlight. Please read more about First National Bank on page 5.

This month’s Business After Hours will be held on Thursday, January 12, 5 to 7 p.m., hosted by Plamor Lanes, 1411 Grandview Avenue, Muscatine.

Remember if you work for a chamber member, then you ARE a chamber member! Do not miss out on this chance to network and socialize with peers within the business community.

GMCCI members mingle and network at Business After Hours, Thursday, December 8, at Conn Communications.

The staff of Conn Communications gather for a holiday pose before hosting Business After Hours on December 8.

of Muscatine

• Community of adults, 55+ • Maintenance-free living • Benefits of home ownership • 1 & 2 bedroom homes • In-home laundry & storage • Community & club room • Guest suite • Woodworking shop • Secure building • Underground heated parking & car wash

(563) 263-22762206 Cobblestone Dr.,

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Grow Your Business with GMCCI and SCORE

Popular SCORE Online Workshops When Social Goes Local Listen anytime! Using Social Media to Grow Your Business with SCORE and HP Listen anytime! Savvy Social Media with Jeanne Rossomme Listen anytime!

Robbin Block has been evangelizing the benefits of marketing strategy for over 25 years. Part geek, part creative, she’s brought her in-depth knowledge of the Web and its strategic application to business to companies of all sizes and to thousands of readers via her book, Social Persuasion: Making Sense of Social Media for Small Business. This month, Robbin discusses some of social media’s many implications on the crafting and execution of winning small business marketing plans.

What’s the biggest misperception about social media’s role in marketing, and what should entrepreneurs really be doing as they map out a new small business?

Social media can’t solve all your marketing problems. For a business, it needs to be thought of like any other communication tool. You need to understand the fundamentals of marketing — who’s your target audience, where do they get their information, what do they care about, etc.— to find the right media mix that makes sense for you.

What is the most underutilized non-social media marketing method today?

By far, it’s public relations. Many people are afraid of it, or don’t know what it is. Instead they’ll spend money on poorly placed ads that will almost always fail.

What are two or three go-to resources for finding data about your market?

The U.S. Census. A lot of valuable information from the latest census is now being released. Industry associations. Industry trade publications and consumer magazines. Their media kits have great

information about their readers’ demographics and interests.

And many more resources are available at my website, www.blockbeta.com.

Coupons are gaining popularity as a means for luring potential customers. If this option appears right for a small business, what is needed to help turn coupon users into regular customers?

Understand what attracted them in the first place. People who just want a deal are tough to convert. But many customers use coupons to “sample the goods.” To get them to come back and pay full price, use strategic messaging at each touchpoint to help push them down the purchase path. This messaging can be done verbally, through printed materials, online, and even reinforced with “gifts”.

Can you provide an example of how this works?

A Pilates studio I work with has used social coupons to bring in new customers, offering a 7-week program at a discounted rate. Each week, the studio reinforces the benefits of membership and the results the customer would get if they continue taking their classes. Communications include a comprehensive orientation, an introductory gift of a branded water bottle, follow-on emails, etc. It’s a planned program designed to positively reinforce the customer experience. This in combination with excellent service may be enough to convince the customer to continue at full price.

Expert Tips: Beyond Social Media

with Robbin Block: Owner, Blockbeta Marketing

Robbin Block Seattle, WA www.blockbeta.com robbin@blockbeta.com

Why should entrepreneurs work with a SCORE small business mentor to develop and monitor their marketing plans?

Marketing needs to be flexible, because the environment within which a business operates is always changing. And the business itself is evolving as new opportunities or threats come to light. A SCORE mentor can help filter the information and focus the entrepreneur on what’s important.

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Muscatine, Iowa563.263.1695

The MOST is The Least We Can DoCall It What You Will... New Construction >> Phase Inspections >> FHA / VA Inspections

Warranty Inspections >> Pre-listing Inspections >> Investment Inspections

Ken Rogers, OwnerCertified by National Environmental Health Association (N.E.H.A.) for Healthy Homes InspectionsEmail: krogers@homeinspectionplus.biz

A.S.H.I. Associate* Dustin RogersLicensed / Certified InspectorEmail: drogers@homeinspectionplus.biz

A.S.H.I. Associate*

>> Roof>> Plumbing>> Lead Paint

>> Structure>> H.V.A.C.>> Asbestos

>> Foundation>> Grounds>> Mold

>> Interior>> Appliances>> Sand Filter

>> Exterior>> Fireplace>> Septic System

>> Electrical>> Termite>> Radon Testing

...and we are licensed and certified for it ALL!

We Call It A Complete Home Inspection.

www.homeinspectionplus.bizIOWA DNRLicensed for

Septic SystemInspections &Sand FilterSampling

Confidential and Free Business Mentoring Provided by SCORE VolunteersEach year, every SCORE volunteer signs the SCORE Code of Ethics & Conduct. Each new volunteer signs the SCORE code upon joining the organization.

As an organization, SCORE takes pride in its professionalism and assures clients that the confidential details about their business remain confidential.

By affirming the SCORE Code of Ethics & Conduct each year, every counselor nationwide reviews the code and agrees to act in the best interests of clients and to conduct SCORE business by honoring high standards of professionalism and ethics. This written code gives SCORE a way to make tangible the organization’s basic beliefs about acting in the client’s best interest.

SCORE is a resource partner of the Small Business Administration. Volunteer counselors mentor clients in areas of business purchases, growth, start-ups, and transitions to new ownership. For a face to face appointment with a local counselor contact GMCCI at 263-8895. Standing appointments are on Thursdays at 1:30 and 2:30 in the GMCCI office at 102 Walnut Street.

YPN Had Successful Two Weeks of Love Campaign, Looking Forward to 2012

YPN Muscatine was pleased to be involved with Two Weeks of

Love for 2012. Two Weeks of Love began with a food drive at Hy-Vee and ended with a toy drive at Krieger Motor Company. Although Freezin’ For Food and Toy Time has been around for 10 years, the committees considered what the 11th year should look like, and they contacted YPN to see if we would like to participate.

YPN created their own Two Weeks of Love committee consisting of Rose Herrick, First National Bank of Muscatine, Christi Saunders, Grain Processing Corporation, Nick Gow, City

of Muscatine, and Andrea Scott, First National Bank of Muscatine. The YPN committee created a business competition for the largest volume of donations. The generosity of the community and the local businesses was overwhelming. Thank you to all of the businesses that participated in our business competition, we look forward to next year’s challenge.

Join YPN as a 2012 member for a chance to win an iPad 2! Sign up for membership on or before January 19 and attend the annual meeting that evening from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at The Button Factory Wood Fire Grille. You must be present to win. The annual meeting will be combined with Third Thursday this year, so join us for great food, networking, a short presentation, and a chance to win an iPad 2!

YPN Committee Members help gather food in the Hawkeye Hauler, during the Two Weeks of Love Freezin’ For Food campaign.

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Staff

Bill PhelanPresident & CEObphelan@muscatine.com

Jane DaufeldtVice President, Community Developmentjdaufeldt@muscatine.com

Greg JenkinsVice President, Economic Developmentgjenkins@muscatine.com

Ally BillhornMarketing & Communications Coordinatorabillhorn@muscatine.com

Heather ShoppaCVB Managerheathershoppa@muscatine.com

Sarah BannEvent Coordinatorsbann@muscatine.com

Shea EitmanOffice Coordinatorseitman@muscatine.com

Bill Phelan President & CEO bphelan@muscatine.com

Kerri McKim Marketing & Communications Coordinator kmckim@muscatine.com

Greg Jenkins Economic Development gjenkins@muscatine.com

Jane Daufeldt Executive Director jdaufeldt@muscatine.com

Heather Shoppa CVB Manager heathershoppa@muscatine.com

Bill Phelan President & CEO bphelan@muscatine.com

Kerri McKim Marketing & Communications Coordinator kmckim@muscatine.com

Greg Jenkins Economic Development gjenkins@muscatine.com

Jane Daufeldt Executive Director jdaufeldt@muscatine.com

Heather Shoppa CVB Manager heathershoppa@muscatine.com

LYNN ALLISON 563.260.4520

LynnAllison@RuhlHomes.com www.LynnAllison.RuhlHomes.com

M U S C AT I N EF O O D S C O R P O R AT I O N

High quality, research tested, food ingredients, ethyl alcohol, packaged goods, pet products and animal feed.

www.muscatinefoods.com

Member Spotlight: First National Bank of MuscatineWho: First National Bank of MuscatineWhat: First National Bank is a full service banking organization. They offer an array of services to businesses and individuals designed to meet their competitive and ever-changing needs with specialized delivery options and personalized financial portfolios. Where: All six locations and their hours can be found at: https://www.fnbmusc.com/about_us/hours_locations/Member Since: October 10, 1944

First National Bank of Muscatine began in 1870, just five years after the end of the Civil War, as a private banking business under the name Silverman, Cook & Company, with the prominent P.M. Musser named as its first president.

Muscatine has seen many changes since First National Bank said “Hello” in 1870. For instance we now have telephones, cars, electric lights and running water. And, the Bank’s main office has moved a few blocks from its original location, but one thing remains the same, the enthusiastic support of the community from which they were built.

First National Bank has always been known as a leader in investing in our economic community through funding start-up, inventory, construction, operating, and equipment needs for countless businesses, from sole-proprietorships to local global businesses. And, through this aggressive reinvestment in our community, First National Bank has supported sustainable, business growth and job creation.

Generosity to the community and involvement in the community is one of the cornerstones First National Bank was built from 140+ years ago. Annually they make financial contributions to more than 150 area activities and organizations. You will consistently see the 90 local people the Bank employs actively giving back to the community through boards, drives, church affiliations, clubs, and every major initiative occurring within the community. First National Bank also focuses on area schools by offering generous financial support to classroom and extra-curricular activities, as well as a variety of financial education tools.

When asked how and why First National Bank has been such a committed member to GMCCI, the answer was simple.

“We believe GMCCI provides a critical communication source for local economic success, by providing networking, collaboration, and support. From this foundation, ideas take root to create business growth and positive change for our community landscape.”

Please extend a big thank you to First National Bank of Muscatine for continuing to serve the Muscatine community and for being a proud GMCCI member. Want your chance in the spotlight? Be sure to attend this month’s Business After Hours, hosted by Plamor Lanes, 1411 Grandview Avenue, on January 12, from 5-7 p.m.

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COMING SOON: Free Google Websites for Muscatine Area BusinessesNo business in today’s economy can afford to be without a website.

There is now a way for every small business to build a FREE website and you do not have to know

how to write html code or have any web experience necessary.

If you are familiar with Microsoft Word or similar programs you can create your own

customized web pages with your own text and pictures. It is as simple as knowing how to cut, paste and supply your own content.

On February 21, from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m., SCORE will co-host a workshop with Google, Muscatine Community College and The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry, being held at MCC, Gaekle Hall, 2nd floor.

Iowa Get Your Business Online, is a new program offered by Google, which allows businesses a free, easy and fast way to get their business online. If your business is already online, you’ll find tools and resources to help your business succeed online.

During this workshop you will receive a free website and Google Places listing, get one on one advice and tips to better your website, learn more about online marketing, all the while networking with fellow small business owners. Additionally, you will receive a free customized domain name and free hosting for one year.

This Iowa Get Your Business Online event is free, but limited to the first 25 registrants, so don’t miss out on this opportunity. We are expecting this event to sell out quickly, based on other sessions that have been held throughout Iowa.

To register and get information about Iowa Get Your Business Online, visit www.iowagetonline.com.

Make the Most of Slow Sales Periods By Rieva Lesonsky

Most businesses go through varying periods of really busy times alternating with periods of slower sales. If you can predict when the slower times occur to some degree, you can plan to make the most of your downtime. Here are some ideas to stay productive during the slow times:

Get social! You’ve been meaning to get out in the community and make some important connections, and a slower sales period is the perfect time to do it. Local networking groups, your Chamber of Commerce, association meetings and business social groups are all great places to meet fellow business owners and see what everyone’s up to. Attend some town hall meetings to see what’s go-ing on with business development in your city; volunteer as a speaker at local schools or business groups. Jump on the social media bandwagon and make new connections through Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Start some conversations online and see what your customers want from your business. Work on your marketing plan. If you’ve been in business for a while, take a look at all your marketing materials to see if you need a branding makeover. Think about new logos, slogans, angles, target markets…whatever areas you think need a fresh, new approach. Also take a look at what your competitors are doing with their marketing, including how they’re using social media. If your business is just starting out, take time to hone your marketing approach and plan the best ways to call attention to your business.

Take a class. Maybe you think you know enough about websites and SEO, or you need to update your computer skills. SCORE has webinars and online courses that you can take anytime. Also check out your local SCORE office to see what classes and workshops are being offered there.

Tackle your to-do list. Now is a great time to take care of all the tasks that have been wasting away on the to-do list. Been meaning to go green? Replace all those light bulbs with energy-efficient ones. Meant to research new business insurance? Considering changing your business structure? Talk to your attorney and accountant. Now is the time to take care of the little (and not-so-little) things that we all tend to put off, but that can add up to big improvements in your business. Rieva Lesonsky is CEO of GrowBiz Media, a media company that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Follow Rieva at Twitter.com/Rieva and visit her blog at SmallBizDaily.com. Visit her website SmallBizTrendCast to get the scoop on business trends and sign up for Rieva’s free TrendCast reports.

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COMING SOON: Free Google Websites for Muscatine Area Businesses Trinity Muscatine Physicians Clinic Welcomes VetschTrinity Muscatine Physicians Clinic is pleased to welcome Michelle Vetsch, nurse practitioner, to the medical staff. Michelle will be practicing at the Wilton location.

Michelle earned her Master of Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees from the University of Iowa. Michelle has experience in intensive care units, emergency departments as well as family practice settings. She is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

Michelle will be collaborating with Dr. Sojka at the Wilton Clinic, 400 Oveson Drive, Wilton, (563) 732-2121.

Take the Pledge, Make Muscatine a Blue Zone CommunityAnyone who has ever made a healthy New Year’s resolution knows the challenges of maintaining it over time. Circumstances and the environment can conspire against us, so the goal can be difficult to achieve. This same challenge is faced by traditional health improvement programs that rely on behavior change alone.

The Blue Zones Project is different because it takes an environmental approach to improve our well-being. By optimizing our environments - where we spend our time and things that influence our behavior – we can make the healthy choice be the easy choice so that we naturally adopt healthy behaviors.

Blue Zone Communities share common lifestyle behaviors that have a direct impact on peoples increased well-being and longevity. These behaviors center on moving naturally, eating wisely, knowing your life’s purpose, and belonging to a social community.

Muscatine’s full application to become a Blue Zone Community has been submitted. In the next few weeks we’ll find out if Muscatine is one of the finalists which will have a site visit. It’s not too late to pledge for Muscatine. Pledges can be completed by signing up at http://www.bluezonesproject.com/citizens/signup or by texting “BZP” to 772937.

The path to becoming a Blue Zone Community is a journey that will reap rewards of healthier and more vibrant families, closely connected communities, and an effective and productive workforce. Muscatine is ready.

Advertise Here!

Call GMCCItoday at

263-8895!

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eFile For a Fast Income Tax Refund85% of Iowans filed their income tax return electronically last year! Join your friends and neighbors – get your Iowa income tax refund in 10 days or less when you file electronically. eFiling is fast, safe, and easy!

You may qualify to eFile for free! Beginning in mid-January, the Iowa Department of Revenue Web site (www.iowa.gov/tax) will feature links to software companies offering online filing of income tax returns. File your federal and Iowa income tax returns together from the Department’s Web site.

File electronically. Good for the environment. Good for you.

Chamber Chat

Have recent company photos to share? Submit to abillhorn@muscatine.com, with the headline Chamber Chat.

Employees at Harper’s Cycling & Fitness

show off their Christmas tree making skills,

building one out of bike rims and tires.

The entrance to HON Company is filled with a large, beautifully lit tree, adored by guests and members.

Clients and visitors alike feel the holiday spirit in Ruhl & Ruhl’s welcoming lobby.

Guests are greeted warmly into Stanley Consultants by a Christmas themed lobby.

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We’ve expanded! Place your advertisement here. Reach

hundreds of Muscatine business professionals for as low as $50 per

month. Call GMCCI, 263-8895, to reserve your spot.

Advertise Here!

Call GMCCItoday at

263-8895!

Frye Builders Receives General Excellence Award in ConstructionFrye Builders & Associates, Inc. received a 2011 Award of Excellence in the General Construction - Commercial & Institutional $500,000 to $2 million category from Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa.

The award was presented based on the company's work on Immanuel Lutheran Church – Rock Island. Kelly & Associates was architect for the project. Criteria for the award included complexity of the project, attractiveness, unusual challenges, innovation, safety, and budget compliance.

Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa is a non-profit construction trade association representing more than 450 member firms throughout the state. he association represents general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and associates.

Nepple Law Makes Best Law Firm List in U.S. News & World ReportNepple Law, P.L.C. has been selected by its peers for inclusion in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms for 2011-2012. Nepple Law is the only law firm in the Quad Cities region to be ranked as Best Law Firm in Tax Law. It is one of 6,983 law firms to receive first-tier national and/or metropolitan ranking.

To be eligible for a ranking, a law firm must have at least one lawyer who is included in Best Law-yers as part of the annual peer review assessment. James A. Nepple is one of a distinguished group of attorneys who have now been listed in Best Lawyers for twenty years or longer. To achieve this ranking, peer lawyers vote on expertise, responsiveness, integrity, cost-effectiveness, whether they would refer a matter to a firm, and whether they consider a firm a worthy competitor. According to The American Lawyer, Best Lawyers is the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice, since peers recommend peers.

Nepple Law, P.L.C. has six attorneys and five legal assistants with offices in Muscatine, Davenport and Rock Island. Their Muscatine office is located at 216 Sycamore Street, Suite 500.

James A. Nepple

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Make A 2012 Commitment to Buy LocalWith the holiday season now officially behind us, retailers are taking a deep breath, compiling receipts and hoping their efforts during the holiday months paid off.

After the long holiday retail season many retailers take a small break during the first part of the New Year and hope that sales continue to grow. Often this is not the case. January can be one of the hardest times in retail due to low promotion and high amounts of returns.

Many retailers’ saving graces come in the form of gift cards, which are often redeemed shortly after Christmas, with the purchaser more often than not buying more than their gift card redeems at. These extra dollars are greatly appreciated in small businesses that struggle in the down months.

As with Small Business Saturday, the highly promoted event, directly following Black Friday, the need to support our local businesses is essential to a community’s growth. Not just during the holiday months, but year around.

All cities, large and small, Muscatine

included, rely heavily on local business growth to keep dollars within the community.

Muscatine has always been known for its vast history, entrepreneurial spirit and excellent work ethic. Continuing this tradition and supporting a community like Muscatine will reap benefits in the future.

Let us all take a pledge to support local businesses with the Muscatine area in 2012.

Need painting supplies? Buy them here. Need a new outfit for a company party? Buy it here. Need a gift for that special someone? Buy it here.

Success is in our hands.

The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry will host its Annual Meeting and Dinner on Tuesday, March 27 at the Clarion Hotel. A cocktail reception will be held from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. The dinner and awards presentation will follow from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Stay tuned to all GMCCI emails and future publications as more information will be coming regarding this year’s Annual Meeting.

Save the Date: GMCCI Annual Meeting

Handled Press Release and Hosted • Reception for “The Kraken”Welcomed Sorority Sisters Meeting • ParticipantsResponded to 400+ RFI’s Generated • from Iowa Tourism Co-Op Ad ProgramPrepared Budgets & Funding • Requests to Present to Muscatine County and the City of MuscatineWelcomed Iowa Latino Conference • AttendeesSupported the Efforts of the Travel • Federation of IowaMaintained Membership in the Iowa • Group Travel AssociationCreated Multiple Itineraries for Group • Tour Planners

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Muscatine Convention and Visitors Bureau 2011 - A Year in Review

Advertise Here!

Call GMCCItoday at

263-8895!

Please take a moment and look at all of the events, groups, reunions and visitors that the Muscatine Convention & Visitors Bureau hosted or helped bring to Muscatine in 2011. Take advantage of the MCVB, they are here to host and welcome all participants and visitors to the Muscatine area.

If you need information about the area, are planning a trip for out-of-town visitors or would like to bring members of a group/association you belong to, to Muscatine, please call the MCVB for assistance.

Welcomed Preservation Iowa • Conference AttendeesWelcomed the Dodge Brothers • National Car Club MembersWelcomed Participants in the Iowa • Girls High School State Soccer TournamentHosted the Visitor Information Station • for Major Soccer Tournaments

Welcomed the Passengers and • Spectators for Train Festival 2011Contributed Photos and Content to the • Chamber’s New WebsiteContinued for Support Travel • Mississippi River.orgAttended Eastern Iowa Tourism • Association Meetings as Muscatine County’s RepresentativeAttended the CenStates Travel • & Tourism Research Association ConferenceWelcomed the MHS Class of “61• Supported MCC Baseball and Softball • Regional TournamentsHosted Members of Citizens State • Bank Travel Club (Monticello, IA)

A visitor, from Citizens State Bank Club, browses the selection of knitting supplies available at Serendipity Yarn Shoppe.

“The Kraken” drew attention everywhere it was displayed, residents and visitors alike, enjoyed the soft-sculpture.

Passengers boarding the rail car as they make their return trip, all part of Train Festival 2011.

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

102 Walnut Street

Muscatine, Iowa 52761-4027

563-263-8895 Fax: 563-263-7662

Address Service Requested

The Pearl City Progress (USPS391-430) is published monthly by the:

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry102 Walnut StreetMuscatine, Iowa 52761-4027Email: chamber@muscatine.com

Periodical Postage Paid at Muscatine, IA.

POSTMASTER: Send address change to Pearl City Progress 102 Walnut Street Muscatine, IA 52761-4027

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2 JanGMCCI Office Closed

3 JanEconomic Development Committee Meeting7:30 AM

5 JanSCORE 1:30 and 3:30 PM

12 JanSCORE 1:30 and 3:30 PM

Business After Hours5:00 to 7:00 PMPlamor Lanes

17 JanEmployer’s CouncilNoon to 1:00 PMISU Extension Office

January19 JanSCORE 1:30 and 3:30 PM

YPN Third Thursday/Annual Meeting5:30 to 7:30 PMThe Button Factory Wood Fire Grille

20 JanGMCCI Executive Board MeetingNoon to 1:30 PM

24 JanTechno Tuesdays: Smart Phones for Smart Businesses8:00 to 9:30 AMGMCCI Office

26 JanSCORE 1:30 and 3:30 PM

More advertising has become available! Reserve your spot

today. Contact Ally at 263-8895.

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Promoting a Vibrant and Sustainable Economy for the Muscatine Area

2012-2015

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry102 Walnut StreetMuscatine, IA 52761

563-263-8895 ph563-263-7662 faxEmail: chamber@muscatine.com

www.muscatine.com.

Printed on the Ricoh Pro C651EX Color Production System courtesy of Ricoh Production Printing

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Muscatine is the place where people are changing the world by making things happen. Every day, people in Muscatine are creating products that make the world a better place. Muscatine has always been known for its history of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and its hard-working people. What better place than here for all of us to bring our collective abilities together for the betterment of all.

This is exactly what ignite Muscatine (iM) is all about.

iM - Involved in Muscatine.

iM - Interested in improving Muscatine.

iM – Intellectually engaged.

iM - Indebted to Muscatine.

iM – Inspired by Muscatine’s leaders and community members.

iM – Invested in Muscatine.

iM – Inactive, but want to help Muscatine improve.

iM – Insert your own adjective to describe how you can help.

If Muscatine can ignite its huge arsenal of intellectual weapons and focus their combined power, like a laser, on the problems at hand within our community, nothing will be able to stand in the way of its future. Time and complacency are Muscatine’s worst enemies. We must act now and ignite our collective spirits, talents, resources and intelligence to set this community on a new trajectory to the future.

iM – not alone in this desire, how can we help ignite the flame?

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

GREATER MUSCATINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

2011-2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bob Allbee Muscatine Community College

Lynn Allison Ruhl and Ruhl

Doug Buster Fabricators Plus

Gary Carlson HNI Corporation

Pam Collins Musser Public Library

Bill Decker Muscatine Community School District

Cara Fuller Bridgestone Bandag, LLC

Brenda Garcia-Van Auken State Farm Insurance

Nick Gow 2010 YPN Chair Person

Tom Green HJ Heinz

Kevin Harle SSAB Americas

James Hayes Trinity Muscatine

Tom Hendricks Taco Johns of Muscatine

Stan Howe Member Emeritus

Scott Ingstad First National Bank of Muscatine

Steve Jameson Muscatine Journal

Greg Kistler Central State Bank

Paul Kraushaar Muscatine Physical Therapy Services, PC

Doug Krieger Krieger Motor Company

John Kuhl Muscatine Foods Corp

Sal LoBianco Muscatine Power & Water

Greg Mandsager City of Muscatine

Jay McKee McKee Button Company

Ann Meeker Pearl Plaza, LLC.

Dave Mohr Eastern Iowa Light & Power

Brett Nelson Musco Sports Lighting

Kasey O’Kelly Hy-Vee Drugstore

Dan Paca Kent Feeds

Dave Penn Monsanto Company

Jim Reynolds Reynolds Engineering

Gary Slight Community Bank

Rick Smith Stanley Consultants

Nancy Snaadt Alliant Energy

Dave Watkins Muscatine County

“The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry (when they were still known as the Muscatine Development Corporation) played a pivotal role in attracting SSAB (formerly IPSCO Steel) to Muscatine County in the early 1990’s and have been helping the Company ever since that time. Each time we have either considered or have implemented expansion or investment plans, including the recent addition of a new Research & Development facility on our site, they have been there to support our needs. GMCCI is one of the reasons we have been able to double our employment levels from 300 to 600 since first starting operations in Muscatine County in 1997. They not only meet, but exceed our expectations.” Bill ZinkewichDirector of HR and Community RelationsSSAB Americas

“We have been a Muscatine business for 9 years. We have worked closely with businesses in Muscatine to sustain our growth, and have expanded in the last few years. GMCCI’s Industrial Revolving Loan helped us to continue the growth of our company. We look forward to the partnership between Fabricators Plus and GMCCI for many years to come, and fully support their economic development initiatives.”

Douglas R. BusterPresidentFabricators Plus

Dear Community Partner,

I am honored to be the 2012-2015 Chair of the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and

Industry’s Economic Development Fundraising Campaign. I would like to share the work of

GMCCI as it assists and ignites the growth of our business community, and ask you to support this

organization’s efforts.

A community wide entrepreneurial spirt is alive in the Muscatine business climate. We have strong,

diverse businesses and a hard-working, capable workforce that has long been the envy of many

communities. One of the keys to Muscatine’s success has been the efforts of the Greater Muscatine

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GMCCI) to provide professional economic development

leadership and assistance to Muscatine’s businesses both large and small. GMCCI is here to help

this great community by striving to grow our local economy whenever and however possible. This

organization works tirelessly to insure a strong public-private partnership that fosters a business

climate conducive to growth and expansion. GMCCI works to assist businesses through the often

complicated process of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, formally known as the Iowa

Department of Economic Development. GMCCI provides on-going support to grow and strengthen

our workforce through the efforts of the Young Professionals Network and Leadership Muscatine

and assists Muscatine businesses to fulfill training needs.

GMCCI utilizes a strategic approach to accomplish its Economic Development mission to be

the catalyst for advancing our region’s economy, improving our quality of life and enhancing our

members’ success. The primary means of fulfilling the mission are 1) The Business Retention and

Expansion Program in support of Muscatine’s existing business 2) The recruitment of new businesses

and 3) a re-doubled effort to assist businesses to realize growth through an Economic Gardening

program currently under development. GMCCI depends greatly on collaboration with economic

development partners like the Eastern Iowa Economic Development Alliance, Iowa Economic

Development Authority, and the Bi-state Regional Commission to help with its mission. Further

collaboration with city and county officials enables GMCCI to reach out to the right organizations at

the right time to insure they provide the needed support to strengthen and grow the economy of our

community.

GMCCI is engaged in many efforts that have and will continue to result in economic development

in Muscatine. These efforts have helped sustain Muscatine through some trying economic times.

I believe we need to support this organization so it can not only continue its efforts on our behalf,

but to also allow them to improve their abilities to serve Muscatine. I encourage everyone to help

GMCCI ignite Muscatine by investing in this economic development campaign so Muscatine

becomes an even a better place to live, work and grow our businesses.

Sincerley,

Gage KentChairman & CEOMuscatine Foods Corporation

Bill PhelanPresident & CEOGreater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

_________________________________________________________________ Name (Company or Individual)

_________________________________________________________________ Authorized Signature Date

_________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address

_________________________________________________________________ City State Zip

_________________________________________________________________ Phone Email

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry102 Walnut Street • Muscatine, IA 52761

563-263-8895 ph • 563-263-7662 faxEmail: chamber@muscatine.com • www.muscatine.com.

YOUR SUPPORT IS VITALIn order to ensure a prosperous future for the Muscatine area a strategic and committed plan of economic development must be actively pursued. All of us who live or work in the Muscatine area contribute to the plan’s success. Your interest and support are the foundation of a successful Muscatine area. Please make your pledge to the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry today.

PLEDGE COMMITMENTI support the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s plans and would like to invest in a prosperous future for Muscatine by contributing the following amounts:

Pledge Payment Schedule

$___________________in 2012 ❑ Annually

$___________________in 2013 ❑ Semi-Annually

$___________________in 2014 ❑ Quarterly

❑ Monthly

2012-2015CAMPAIGN CHAIR

Gage KentMuscatine Foods Corporation

VICE-CHAIRSGreg Kistler

Doug KriegerScott Ingstad Gary Carlson Gary Slight

Brenda Garcia Van AukenDave Penn

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce (GMCCI) has been involved with many projects during the last five years. What follows is an overview of our accomplishments.

Much of our work has been tending to the retention and expansion of the strong businesses that call Muscatine home. Efforts to retain and grow existing industries generally provide approximately 75% to 85% of a community’s growth and Muscatine is not an exception to this rule.

During this period, even with a struggling economy, Muscatine has kept pace with significant projects that GMCCI has been proud to support.

• Capitalexpendituresofapproximately$37million.

• Impactedthejobgrowthorretentionof371jobs.

• GMCCImade150existingindustryvisitsduringthisperiod.Thesevisitsprovide opportunities to understand the business community’s needs while also learning ways to serve them through ongoing projects.

• ThebusinessclimateinMuscatineisconducivetosuccess.Thepublic-privatepartnerships that have been fostered over time are worth maintaining and strengthening. GMCCI’s role in these efforts has taken clear form and will continue to be seen as a key part of what we do to support business.

• OurparticipationattheStatelevelwiththeIowaChamberAlliancetoprovidethe voice of Muscatine business to one of the most influential entities in the state has positioned GMCCI to assist our legislators to understand those issues that impact Muscatine’s businesses and our community.

• OureffortslocallytoshepherdtheRefuseFlowControlCommitteetoaidbusinesses and the city to develop a plan that all parties support is a great example of GMCCI’s efforts to work on the behalf of business for the good of the city. We work hard to maintain an open and beneficial relationship in the public sector at all levels of government and recognize the strength and value of the relationships we have with both city and county officials.

• OurcontinuedsupportofbusinessthroughtheLegislativeForumsGMCCIco-sponsors with Muscatine Community College.

• WecontinuetosupportMuscatine’sYoungProfessional’sNetwork.Ourlocal YPN has been one of the fastest growing in the state and continues to provide opportunities for the YPNs to network with others and to value our community.

• ThelongstandingprogramofLeadershipMuscatinecontinuestoprovideopportunities for those individuals identified as future leaders of the community to gain a better understanding of their community and how they might be more engaged.

“GMCCI is an excellent partner, providing community leadership and economic development capabilities that match the needs of both businesses and the greater community. HNI supports GMCCI’s efforts and believes a strong organization is vital for the long term future of our community.”

Gary CarlsonVice President, Member & Community RelationsHNI Corporation

“When the Muscatine business community needs an organization to provide leadership they can count on GMCCI. The organization is engaged in the right efforts at the right time to help make Muscatine a great place to live, work and play and we at Monsanto appreciate their efforts.”

Dave PennPlant Manager, Monsanto Company

CAMPAIGN INITIATIVES BUILD GROWTH FROM WITHIN

Existing Business Retention: Work closely with existing business, large and small, to understand needs and road blocks to growth and expansion. Work with all necessary financial, educational/training, governmental bodies, and other organizations needed to make expansion and growth possible.

•ConductannualvisitstoMuscatine’sexistingbusinessestodocument positive and negative business trends and capitalize on or reverse the trends

•Communicatewithexistingbusinesses’managementondevelopment, expansion opportunities and other business related issues

•Engagecity,countyandstatedepartmentstohelpresolveissues that impact Muscatine’s business climate

•Facilitategrowthandexpansionofexistingbusinessesthrough financial incentives and assistance

Innovation/Entrepreneurship: Develop a robust channel, including funding streams, educational capabilities, assistance with marketing and sales abilities for advanced innovation within Muscatine and the region.

•ProvidecontinuedsupporttotheMuscatineSeniorCorpsofRetiredExecutives(SCORE)toenableentrepreneurialgrowth.

BUILD GROWTH THROUGH ATTRACTION

Targeted External Marketing: Working with the members of Eastern Iowa Economic Development Alliance (EIEDA), the business community, the City and the County, target priority industries/businesses that are a fit for Muscatine.

•RespondtoleadsgeneratedbytheEIEDAandIEDA

•MarketcompetitiveadvantagesoftheMuscatineareatotargeted firms, trade shows, events and expand marketing efforts.

BUILD READINESS FOR GROWTH

Workforce Development: In collaboration with local business, networking organizations, and educational institutions, continue to work to ensure an adequate supply of a technologically savvy, well trained, diverse, and capable workforce; a workforce prepared to meet the needs of both existing and future employers within Muscatine and the region.

•ProvidesupportandguidancetoYoungProfessionalsNetwork

•Partnerwithlocalbusinessesandeducationalinstitutionstodevelop a Workforce Partnership Program

•Buildonthestrengthofthelocaleducationalinstitutionstoenable timely training for the skills needed for Muscatine’s workforce

•Participate with and fund updates of the Iowa Workforce Development analysis of the Muscatine workforce

BUILD PARTNERSHIPS FOR GROWTH

Coalitions: Build and leverage coalitions to connect organizations and businesses with resources in the region, the state and beyond to support growth.

•MaintainaleadershiprolewithinEasternIowaEconomicDevelopment Alliance

•EngagewithelectedofficialsandstaffofMuscatinecounty,generating support for community and area projects

•GrowrelationshipswiththeIEDA,IowaEconomicDevelopment Authority, Iowa Workforce Development and Eastern Iowa Community College District while maintaining a strong understanding of their programs and initiatives

BUILD STRENGTH FOR OPPORTUNITY

Develop and Maintain a Marketing Toolbox: Develop and deploy those tools necessary to effectively market Muscatine both internally and externally

•Design,developanddeployarevisedGMCCIwebsiteincluding economic incentives and industry ready properties

•Createandmaintainarepositoryofinformationvaluabletobusinesses considering Muscatine as a location

•DevelopandrefinenewsourcesofassistancetobusinessesinMuscatine to encourage growth

2012-2015CAMPAIGN CHAIR

Gage KentMuscatine Foods Corporation

VICE-CHAIRSGreg Kistler

Doug KriegerScott Ingstad Gary Carlson Gary Slight

Brenda Garcia Van AukenDave Penn

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce (GMCCI) has been involved with many projects during the last five years. What follows is an overview of our accomplishments.

Much of our work has been tending to the retention and expansion of the strong businesses that call Muscatine home. Efforts to retain and grow existing industries generally provide approximately 75% to 85% of a community’s growth and Muscatine is not an exception to this rule.

During this period, even with a struggling economy, Muscatine has kept pace with significant projects that GMCCI has been proud to support.

• Capitalexpendituresofapproximately$37million.

• Impactedthejobgrowthorretentionof371jobs.

• GMCCImade150existingindustryvisitsduringthisperiod.Thesevisitsprovide opportunities to understand the business community’s needs while also learning ways to serve them through ongoing projects.

• ThebusinessclimateinMuscatineisconducivetosuccess.Thepublic-privatepartnerships that have been fostered over time are worth maintaining and strengthening. GMCCI’s role in these efforts has taken clear form and will continue to be seen as a key part of what we do to support business.

• OurparticipationattheStatelevelwiththeIowaChamberAlliancetoprovidethe voice of Muscatine business to one of the most influential entities in the state has positioned GMCCI to assist our legislators to understand those issues that impact Muscatine’s businesses and our community.

• OureffortslocallytoshepherdtheRefuseFlowControlCommitteetoaidbusinesses and the city to develop a plan that all parties support is a great example of GMCCI’s efforts to work on the behalf of business for the good of the city. We work hard to maintain an open and beneficial relationship in the public sector at all levels of government and recognize the strength and value of the relationships we have with both city and county officials.

• OurcontinuedsupportofbusinessthroughtheLegislativeForumsGMCCIco-sponsors with Muscatine Community College.

• WecontinuetosupportMuscatine’sYoungProfessional’sNetwork.Ourlocal YPN has been one of the fastest growing in the state and continues to provide opportunities for the YPNs to network with others and to value our community.

• ThelongstandingprogramofLeadershipMuscatinecontinuestoprovideopportunities for those individuals identified as future leaders of the community to gain a better understanding of their community and how they might be more engaged.

“GMCCI is an excellent partner, providing community leadership and economic development capabilities that match the needs of both businesses and the greater community. HNI supports GMCCI’s efforts and believes a strong organization is vital for the long term future of our community.”

Gary CarlsonVice President, Member & Community RelationsHNI Corporation

“When the Muscatine business community needs an organization to provide leadership they can count on GMCCI. The organization is engaged in the right efforts at the right time to help make Muscatine a great place to live, work and play and we at Monsanto appreciate their efforts.”

Dave PennPlant Manager, Monsanto Company

CAMPAIGN INITIATIVES BUILD GROWTH FROM WITHIN

Existing Business Retention: Work closely with existing business, large and small, to understand needs and road blocks to growth and expansion. Work with all necessary financial, educational/training, governmental bodies, and other organizations needed to make expansion and growth possible.

•ConductannualvisitstoMuscatine’sexistingbusinessestodocument positive and negative business trends and capitalize on or reverse the trends

•Communicatewithexistingbusinesses’managementondevelopment, expansion opportunities and other business related issues

•Engagecity,countyandstatedepartmentstohelpresolveissues that impact Muscatine’s business climate

•Facilitategrowthandexpansionofexistingbusinessesthrough financial incentives and assistance

Innovation/Entrepreneurship: Develop a robust channel, including funding streams, educational capabilities, assistance with marketing and sales abilities for advanced innovation within Muscatine and the region.

•ProvidecontinuedsupporttotheMuscatineSeniorCorpsofRetiredExecutives(SCORE)toenableentrepreneurialgrowth.

BUILD GROWTH THROUGH ATTRACTION

Targeted External Marketing: Working with the members of Eastern Iowa Economic Development Alliance (EIEDA), the business community, the City and the County, target priority industries/businesses that are a fit for Muscatine.

•RespondtoleadsgeneratedbytheEIEDAandIEDA

•MarketcompetitiveadvantagesoftheMuscatineareatotargeted firms, trade shows, events and expand marketing efforts.

BUILD READINESS FOR GROWTH

Workforce Development: In collaboration with local business, networking organizations, and educational institutions, continue to work to ensure an adequate supply of a technologically savvy, well trained, diverse, and capable workforce; a workforce prepared to meet the needs of both existing and future employers within Muscatine and the region.

•ProvidesupportandguidancetoYoungProfessionalsNetwork

•Partnerwithlocalbusinessesandeducationalinstitutionstodevelop a Workforce Partnership Program

•Buildonthestrengthofthelocaleducationalinstitutionstoenable timely training for the skills needed for Muscatine’s workforce

•Participate with and fund updates of the Iowa Workforce Development analysis of the Muscatine workforce

BUILD PARTNERSHIPS FOR GROWTH

Coalitions: Build and leverage coalitions to connect organizations and businesses with resources in the region, the state and beyond to support growth.

•MaintainaleadershiprolewithinEasternIowaEconomicDevelopment Alliance

•EngagewithelectedofficialsandstaffofMuscatinecounty,generating support for community and area projects

•GrowrelationshipswiththeIEDA,IowaEconomicDevelopment Authority, Iowa Workforce Development and Eastern Iowa Community College District while maintaining a strong understanding of their programs and initiatives

BUILD STRENGTH FOR OPPORTUNITY

Develop and Maintain a Marketing Toolbox: Develop and deploy those tools necessary to effectively market Muscatine both internally and externally

•Design,developanddeployarevisedGMCCIwebsiteincluding economic incentives and industry ready properties

•Createandmaintainarepositoryofinformationvaluabletobusinesses considering Muscatine as a location

•DevelopandrefinenewsourcesofassistancetobusinessesinMuscatine to encourage growth

“The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry (when they were still known as the Muscatine Development Corporation) played a pivotal role in attracting SSAB (formerly IPSCO Steel) to Muscatine County in the early 1990’s and have been helping the Company ever since that time. Each time we have either considered or have implemented expansion or investment plans, including the recent addition of a new Research & Development facility on our site, they have been there to support our needs. GMCCI is one of the reasons we have been able to double our employment levels from 300 to 600 since first starting operations in Muscatine County in 1997. They not only meet, but exceed our expectations.” Bill ZinkewichDirector of HR and Community RelationsSSAB Americas

“We have been a Muscatine business for 9 years. We have worked closely with businesses in Muscatine to sustain our growth, and have expanded in the last few years. GMCCI’s Industrial Revolving Loan helped us to continue the growth of our company. We look forward to the partnership between Fabricators Plus and GMCCI for many years to come, and fully support their economic development initiatives.”

Douglas R. BusterPresidentFabricators Plus

Dear Community Partner,

I am honored to be the 2012-2015 Chair of the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and

Industry’s Economic Development Fundraising Campaign. I would like to share the work of

GMCCI as it assists and ignites the growth of our business community, and ask you to support this

organization’s efforts.

A community wide entrepreneurial spirt is alive in the Muscatine business climate. We have strong,

diverse businesses and a hard-working, capable workforce that has long been the envy of many

communities. One of the keys to Muscatine’s success has been the efforts of the Greater Muscatine

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GMCCI) to provide professional economic development

leadership and assistance to Muscatine’s businesses both large and small. GMCCI is here to help

this great community by striving to grow our local economy whenever and however possible. This

organization works tirelessly to insure a strong public-private partnership that fosters a business

climate conducive to growth and expansion. GMCCI works to assist businesses through the often

complicated process of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, formally known as the Iowa

Department of Economic Development. GMCCI provides on-going support to grow and strengthen

our workforce through the efforts of the Young Professionals Network and Leadership Muscatine

and assists Muscatine businesses to fulfill training needs.

GMCCI utilizes a strategic approach to accomplish its Economic Development mission to be

the catalyst for advancing our region’s economy, improving our quality of life and enhancing our

members’ success. The primary means of fulfilling the mission are 1) The Business Retention and

Expansion Program in support of Muscatine’s existing business 2) The recruitment of new businesses

and 3) a re-doubled effort to assist businesses to realize growth through an Economic Gardening

program currently under development. GMCCI depends greatly on collaboration with economic

development partners like the Eastern Iowa Economic Development Alliance, Iowa Economic

Development Authority, and the Bi-state Regional Commission to help with its mission. Further

collaboration with city and county officials enables GMCCI to reach out to the right organizations at

the right time to insure they provide the needed support to strengthen and grow the economy of our

community.

GMCCI is engaged in many efforts that have and will continue to result in economic development

in Muscatine. These efforts have helped sustain Muscatine through some trying economic times.

I believe we need to support this organization so it can not only continue its efforts on our behalf,

but to also allow them to improve their abilities to serve Muscatine. I encourage everyone to help

GMCCI ignite Muscatine by investing in this economic development campaign so Muscatine

becomes an even a better place to live, work and grow our businesses.

Sincerley,

Gage KentChairman & CEOMuscatine Foods Corporation

Bill PhelanPresident & CEOGreater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

_________________________________________________________________ Name (Company or Individual)

_________________________________________________________________ Authorized Signature Date

_________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address

_________________________________________________________________ City State Zip

_________________________________________________________________ Phone Email

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry102 Walnut Street • Muscatine, IA 52761

563-263-8895 ph • 563-263-7662 faxEmail: chamber@muscatine.com • www.muscatine.com.

YOUR SUPPORT IS VITALIn order to ensure a prosperous future for the Muscatine area a strategic and committed plan of economic development must be actively pursued. All of us who live or work in the Muscatine area contribute to the plan’s success. Your interest and support are the foundation of a successful Muscatine area. Please make your pledge to the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry today.

PLEDGE COMMITMENTI support the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s plans and would like to invest in a prosperous future for Muscatine by contributing the following amounts:

Pledge Payment Schedule

$___________________in 2012 ❑ Annually

$___________________in 2013 ❑ Semi-Annually

$___________________in 2014 ❑ Quarterly

❑ Monthly

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Muscatine is the place where people are changing the world by making things happen. Every day, people in Muscatine are creating products that make the world a better place. Muscatine has always been known for its history of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and its hard-working people. What better place than here for all of us to bring our collective abilities together for the betterment of all.

This is exactly what ignite Muscatine (iM) is all about.

iM - Involved in Muscatine.

iM - Interested in improving Muscatine.

iM – Intellectually engaged.

iM - Indebted to Muscatine.

iM – Inspired by Muscatine’s leaders and community members.

iM – Invested in Muscatine.

iM – Inactive, but want to help Muscatine improve.

iM – Insert your own adjective to describe how you can help.

If Muscatine can ignite its huge arsenal of intellectual weapons and focus their combined power, like a laser, on the problems at hand within our community, nothing will be able to stand in the way of its future. Time and complacency are Muscatine’s worst enemies. We must act now and ignite our collective spirits, talents, resources and intelligence to set this community on a new trajectory to the future.

iM – not alone in this desire, how can we help ignite the flame?

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

GREATER MUSCATINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

2011-2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bob Allbee Muscatine Community College

Lynn Allison Ruhl and Ruhl

Doug Buster Fabricators Plus

Gary Carlson HNI Corporation

Pam Collins Musser Public Library

Bill Decker Muscatine Community School District

Cara Fuller Bridgestone Bandag, LLC

Brenda Garcia-Van Auken State Farm Insurance

Nick Gow 2010 YPN Chair Person

Tom Green HJ Heinz

Kevin Harle SSAB Americas

James Hayes Trinity Muscatine

Tom Hendricks Taco Johns of Muscatine

Stan Howe Member Emeritus

Scott Ingstad First National Bank of Muscatine

Steve Jameson Muscatine Journal

Greg Kistler Central State Bank

Paul Kraushaar Muscatine Physical Therapy Services, PC

Doug Krieger Krieger Motor Company

John Kuhl Muscatine Foods Corp

Sal LoBianco Muscatine Power & Water

Greg Mandsager City of Muscatine

Jay McKee McKee Button Company

Ann Meeker Pearl Plaza, LLC.

Dave Mohr Eastern Iowa Light & Power

Brett Nelson Musco Sports Lighting

Kasey O’Kelly Hy-Vee Drugstore

Dan Paca Kent Feeds

Dave Penn Monsanto Company

Jim Reynolds Reynolds Engineering

Gary Slight Community Bank

Rick Smith Stanley Consultants

Nancy Snaadt Alliant Energy

Dave Watkins Muscatine County

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Promoting a Vibrant and Sustainable Economy for the Muscatine Area

2012-2015

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry102 Walnut StreetMuscatine, IA 52761

563-263-8895 ph563-263-7662 faxEmail: chamber@muscatine.com

www.muscatine.com.

Printed on the Ricoh Pro C651EX Color Production System courtesy of Ricoh Production Printing

Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Tour of Facility (5:15pm) Drinks in Nitelife 48 bar (5:30pm) Preview of the NEW catering menu 2 Hours of Bowling