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

Volume 23 Number 6 June 2014

The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry is a catalyst for advancing our region’s economy, improving our quality of life and enhancing our members’ success

Get Ready- Muscatine’s Independence Day Celebration Is One Month Away!The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the City of Muscatine and many dedicated volunteers are gearing up for another magnificent Independence Day Celebration on Friday, July 4. This year’s theme is “Proud History, Bright Future”.

New this year is the raffling of a 2014 Chevy Spark, nicknamed “Sparky”. You have probably seen “Sparky” parked around town at different GMCCI businesses and organizations. Each of these organizations have volunteered to host “Sparky” at their businesses in order to sell raffle tickets and get more traffic into their businesses. The proceeds from “Sparky” raffle tickets go towards making the Independence Day Celebration in 2015 a bigger, more spectacular event. . If you have not bought your raffle ticket for a chance to win “Sparky”, there is still time! The drawing of the raffle will be on the riverfront this 4th of July, just after the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra plays. See the graphic on this page for the full day line up.

Also new this year are the availability of riverfront vendors. GMCCI members and area non-profits have been invited to have a booth on the riverfront to sell items during the 4th of July festivities. Items such as glow-in-the-dark necklaces, shaved ice and more. The vendors will set up before the community parade and will be available up until the fireworks. Be sure to visit them on the riverfront!

Sponsors are what drive the success of the Independence Day Celebration. Generous donations are what fund such things as the Independence Day parade, the spectacular fireworks display, and other costs associated with these events. Don’t miss

a chance to help your community put on a fun-filled 4th of July! See the Sponsorship Forms in this edition of Pearl City Progress to see how you can contribute. Note: sponsors at the $100 level and above are entitled to a FREE parade entry, which is transferable. Complete the form and return to GMCCI, 102 Walnut Street, Muscatine, no later than Friday, June 13.

Several local groups will be participating in the parade this year and many of them are returning from last year’s parade. But that does not mean that newcomers cannot join in on the fun! The parade is scheduled for Friday, July 4, beginning promptly at 5:00 p.m. Staging and check-in to begin at Iowa Field located near Fulliam and Iowa Avenue at 3:00 p.m. If you are interested in being a part of the parade this year, you have to act fast! All you have to do is complete the parade entry form enclosed in this edition of Pearl City Progress and return to GMCCI, 102 Walnut Street, Muscatine, no later than Friday, June 13. All applications received after this date will be put at the end of the parade and will be subject to a $50 late fee.

Judging of parade entries will be conducted in the following categories: Best of Show Overall, Best of Show Vehicle, Best of Show Equestrian, Best of Show Float, Best Use of Theme, Best Display of Pride in Community, Best Use of Patriotic Music, Best Use of Recycled Materials and Mayor’s Choice.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of your community Independence Day Celebration!

8:00 to 10:30 AMKids First Fund Pancake Breakfast

at First National Bank’s Walnut Room

9:00 to 9:45 AM

Kids Dress-Up Parade from the Walnut Room to the Musser Public Library for a children’s program. Organized by the

Musser Public Library.

4:40 PM5K Run/Walk start. Check-in at

3:40 PM. Begins and ends on the Riverfront. Sponsored by Trinity

Muscatine.

5:00 PMTown Parade

6:00 to 7:30 PMMusical entertainment by Curtis Hawkins Band on the Riverfront.

Food & Drink vendors will be available.

7:30 PMReading of the Declaration of

Independence

7:45 PMPresentation of Colors

8:00 PM Muscatine Symphony Orchestra Performance on the Riverfront

9:30 PMRaffle drawing to win the 2014

Chevy Spark

Fireworks will follow immediately after the car raffle drawing.

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Save - The - Date Upcoming GMCCI

Events

June 12Business After-Hours

Hosted by: Muscatine History and Industry Center

117 W. 2nd Street, Muscatine5 to 7 PM

June 19Ribbon Cutting and Reception

River Rehabilitation2008 Cedar Plaza Drive, Muscatine

8:30 AM

June 27GMCCI Full Board Meeting

Hy-Vee Club Room2400 Second Street, Muscatine

Noon to 1 PM

www.facebook.com/GMCCI www.twitter.com/GMCCI_Muscatine

CompanyWalgreens Drug StoreSSAB Steel, Inc.Fresh Idea Foods, Inc.Iowa State University Extension-MuscatineCommunity Foundation of Greater MuscatinePrudential FinancialLutheran Services in IowaFlowers on the Avenue

Renewed MembersYears43191110101098

New MembersJunior Achievement fosters the future success and economic health of over 55,000 area young people and the communities in which they live. They do this by providing hands-on elementary and secondary programs

focused on work readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship. Through these programs and the support of businesses and individuals, JA reinforces the relevancy of schools' curriculum and empowers young people to own their economic success. Junior Achievement is the only nonprofit organization in the world dedicated to youth, education and economic development.

CompanyToyota of MuscatineUnited Way of Muscatine, Inc.Farm Bureau Financial Services - Steve BermelGoodwill of the HeartlandZachry Industrial, Inc.Francesca Vitale’sSimply SoothingWendi Ingram - Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors

Years887

55211

Put Us on Your Calendar!Save-the-Date for GMCCI’s 50th Annual Harold Ogilvie

Musca-Fu-Da golf outing! The event will be held on Tuesday, September 9, at Muscatine Municipal Golf Course.

There will be 18 holes of golf, prizes and more. Stay tuned for more information!

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The Business After-Hours on Thursday, May 8, was held even though there was a forecast of rain. May’s BAH was held at Kellor & Kellor Landscape, Inc., 1301 Washington Street, and was co-hosted by Phoenix Products, who were on hand to give out free samples and answer questions about their merchandise, Muscatine Tax Service, who graciously let guests use their parking lot and A Guy and A Grill, who catered the event with their delicious food. The event was attended by over 50 members, who enjoyed an evening filled with networking and socializing.

When the sprinkles stopped, guests enjoyed walking around the grounds of Kellor & Kellor, and enjoyed a spring evening with their fellow GMCCI members. All four co-hosts provided exciting door prizes for the guests. The winners of the door prize drawing were Denise Gaeta, who won a $50 gift certificate from Kellor & Kellor and Charlie Harper, who won $50 cash from Muscatine Tax Service. Mary Ohge took home a $50 gift certificate to Phoenix Products, and Holly Thomas-Koehler, Michael Gaeta, and Mike Schulte all took home certificates for a free lunch buffet from A Guy and A Grill. Congrats to the winners!

June’s Business After hours will be hosted by the Muscatine History and Industry Center, 117 West Second Street, on Thursday, June 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. Hope to see you there!

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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.

6001 49th St. S. | Muscatine IA | 563.263.4733

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www.hoffmanninc.com

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STEEL FABRICATION INDUSTRIAL SERVICES

INDUSTRIAL SILOS, CHIMNEYS, AND STEEL STACKS

There are numerous lessons here for all of us in the busi-ness world:

1. Try new things. The road to continual improvement is the willingness to try new and

different things. There is the element of risk- yes. When that risk pays off, it is immensely gratifying.

2. One never learns, or is successful in a vacuum. One needs to be willing to share, learn, ask questions and do the research.

3. Plan. When one does a house remodel, planning becomes a priority for all efforts to be implemented.

A success story from the SCORE website…

“When my business partner, Kari Koch, opened Circle Studio: Pilates and Gyro-tonic in 2006 she came to SCORE for help with managing 6 staff members, a quickly growing clientele and all aspects of day to day operations that were both exciting and overwhelming for a brand new business owner.

Kari credits SCORE for 6 successful years, which included weathering a reces-sion, but ultimately building a thriving business and strong team.

When Kari had a baby in 2012, she asked me to partner with her so that she could continue with the business, but have time to spend with her new family. Kari had such a great experience at SCORE that of course we used them to help us with details of solidifying the partnership;

guiding us to take the steps necessary to build a strong foundation and see our staff through the change.

I continued working with a mentor (and still do!) and taking classes at SCORE to build my management skills, learn more about business and educate myself to be a better business partner and owner. What I got was so much more than that.

Kari and I both love Pilates and Gyrotonic because they help keep our clients strong, balanced and aligned; informing all aspects of their daily lives. But you need more than passion for what you do to be a successful business owner.”

I would love to share your success story.

Doctor John, Local SCORE Counselor

YPN Muscatine Member Referral ProgramIntroducing the YPN Muscatine Member Referral Program! For each new member that signs up for a membership, the current paid YPN member that referred them will receive a $5 gift card! The member that refers the most new members by the end of 2014 will win $200 in cash! It's a great time to join YPN so get out there and spread the word!

Becoming a member of YPN Muscatine is easy! YPN offers the opportunity to share your experiences with others like you. Meet new people, make new friends, identify common interests, and begin building a professional network. Members enjoy different discounts each month to various Muscatine restaurants and businesses, receive weekly email updates and more. Visit www.ypnmuscatine.org to join the fun!

5

Staff

Greg JenkinsPresident & CEO gjenkins@muscatine.com

Ken Rogers - Owner A.S.H.I. Associatekrogers@homeinspectionplus.biz

Dustin Rogers - Inspector A.S.H.I. Associatedrogers@homeinspectionplus.bizwww.homeinspectionplus.biz

004 MUS-IA-MO-11 ad.qxp:004 MUS-IA-M

Member Spotlight: Muscatine Art CenterWho: Muscatine Art Center What: Accredited art gallery and historic mansion museum, facility rentalWhere: 1314 Mulberry Avenue, Muscatine, IA 52761 Website: www.muscatineartcenter.orgMember Since: July 21, 1999

Susan FultonOffice Coordinatorsfulton@muscatine.com

Janet MorrowDirector of Community & Member Development jmorrow@muscatine.com

Katy LoosMarketing & Events Coordinatorkloos@muscatine.com

At Kent Corporation strong family values guide us. We are deeply committed to the health, safety, and

well-being of our employees and Muscatine citizens who share this community we call home.

Grain Processing CorporationKent Nutrition Group, Inc.

Kent Pet Group, Inc.Kent Precision Foods Group, Inc.

kentww.com/newsKent Worldwide

The Muscatine Art Center (MAC), which was once the private home of heiress Laura Musser, welcomes visitors to 1314 Mulberry Avenue. The historic home connects to the modern Stanley Gallery which features changing exhibitions.

Peter Musser, a lumber baron in the early days of Muscatine’s history, had the home built for his daughter, Laura, who lived in the two-story Edwardian mansion with her husband Edwin McColm. The mansion, completed in 1908, was designed by Muscatine architect Henry W. Ziedler, who was also supervised the construction of many significant buildings in Muscatine, including City Hall.

The death of Laura Musser in 1964 at the age of 87 began the chain of events that provided Muscatine with an art gallery and museum. Her heirs, Mary Catherine McWhirter, a step-daughter, and Mary Musser Gilmore, a niece, donated the home and grounds to the City of Muscatine in Laura’s memory in 1965, along with a $100,000 endowment to assist in the mansion’s maintenance.

Today, the Muscatine Art Center is a gathering place for the community to come together and find their creative side. The Muscatine Art Center has several types of programs and activities such as guided tours, art history lectures, exhibit talks, art classes, and so much more. The Muscatine Art Center also boasts award-winning exhibits, such as the Civil War exhibit, “Muscatine and the Civil War: A Sesquicentennial Commemoration”, which was awarded the 2011 Loren Horton Community History Award by the State Historical Society of Iowa Board of Trustees, and world-traveling exhibits such as “Springs, Sprockets & Pulleys” by renowned Iowa-born artist Steve Gerberich.

“The Muscatine Art Center is a real treasure for the community,” states Muscatine Art Center Director, Melanie Alexander. “The historic house and the collections found inside have been donated for the enjoyment of the local people. The Muscatine history collection is also extensive so the Art

Catnip Choir is an installation featured in Steve Gerb-erich’s “Springs, Sprockets & Pulleys”. The exhibit of mechanical and kinetic sculptures was exhibited at the Muscatine Art Center from March through December, 2010. Audiences got to interact with the exhibit by pushing buttons and watching the installations move.

continued on page 9

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Muscatine E-Center is Open for Business

Are you ready to start a business? Do you know someone with a small business that could use some technical assistance on running a business? Muscatine’s E Center is open for business and ready to support the Entrepreneurial Spirit that made Muscatine the great city it is.

The E-Center Assists Muscatine Entrepreneurs

The Muscatine Center for Business Development, The E-Center, is a central hub for entrepreneurs to develop sound, marketable business ideas and comprehensive business planning. The center serves entrepreneurs through one-on-one business counseling; educational workshops; access to market research tools and online support resources; state-of-the-art technology, meeting and co-working space. The E-Center is aligned with local organizations, experienced entrepreneurs and professional advisors to participate in these consultation and workshops.

Business Plan Counseling

The E-Center helps small business owners, aspiring small business owners, or those seeking to grow their business by conducting free, confidential counseling. Counselors from the Eastern Iowa Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

& SCORE are available for Business Planning assistance. Additionally, the E-Center Advisory council provides discipline-specific advice and counsel. Experts in accounting, banking, finance, foodservice, insurance, IT, law, logistics, marketing and retail are available.

Classes & Workshops

The E-Center, SBDC and Muscatine Community College offer an array of classes and workshops from introductory courses to specific topics. Business Plan Jumpstart, Social Media Marketing and Quick Books Accounting are just a few of the classes offered. The next Smart Start class is scheduled for July 22, from 1 – 3pm at The E-Center. To register, call 563-288-6100 and reference section # 142773. The cost is $35.

Mentoring Programs

The E-Center also offers Mentoring Programs and opportunities to its members, such as networking events that give Mentors and Mentees informal opportunities to meet and connect,

informal mentoring relationships, where Mentors and Mentees meet on a one-to-one basis as they agree, and the MEMO Mentorship Program, which pairs MCC student entrepreneurs with local entrepreneur mentors to create a structured, five-month mentoring relationship.

The Eastern Iowa SBDC schedules appointments at the E-Center on the 2nd Tuesday of each month between 1 and 4 PM. Call the SBDC at 563-336-3401.

The Muscatine SCORE Chapter schedules appointments at the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry on Thursday afternoons. Call SCORE at 563-263-8895.

The E-Center is located at Muscatine Community College, 103 Loper Hall, 152 Colorado Street, Muscatine, IA. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM, or by appointment. For more information about the E-Center, call 563-288-6055 or visit www.muscatinebusiness.org.

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.

Jim Elias, President and Executive Director of the E-Center, cuts the ribbon for the grand opening of the E-Center on November 18, 2013, as members of the E-Center Board of Directors look on. Pictured L-R: Gary Slight, David Meloy, Travis Sheets, Bob Allbee, Jim Elias, Marsha Rinetti and Greg Jenkins. Members of the E-Center Board of Directors not pictured: Ann Meeker.

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Grain Processing Corporation Awarded Lab Accreditation Contact: Janet Sichterman, Sr. VP, Human Resources & Communications, Kent Corporation

Grain Processing Corporation (GPC) was awarded ISO 17025 lab accreditation from the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation. The ISO 17025 accreditation is the most noteworthy standard for testing and calibration laboratories worldwide. This voluntary certification proves the competency of the staff and successful operation of the Maltrin® and microbiology labs.

“Quality is very important, not only to the Quality group, but the entire organization. Our goal is to meet and exceed customer expectations. The success of GPC is due to the quality of our products,” said Rani Thomas, VP of Quality and Regulatory Affairs for GPC.

This endorsement proves that the testing in Kent Corporation laboratories is trusted and accurate. Additionally, it verifies that the equipment used at GPC is calibrated and up to date, that the staff is properly trained, and that the company has passed proficiency tests for accuracy.

This certification is one of many voluntary accreditations that Kent Corporation and its subsidiaries have earned. Additional certifications include an internationally recognized quality and food safety certification from Global Food Safety Initiative certification for the Alcohol and Maltrin® divisions, GMA Safe certification for GPC’s starch division, GMP B+ for the Co-Products division, and additional certifications for GPC’s alcohol Lab from the Tax Tariff Bureau.

“These certifications show our customers that we are the best at what we do. They see the proof of these certifications and they continue to work with us.”

GPC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kent Corporation, is an essential part of the Muscatine and Washington communities, supplying hundreds of jobs to local workers. Each year, the company purchases more than $400 million of corn annually from regional farmers. This local commodity is used to produce GPC’s products including food and pharmaceutical grade alcohol, starches, fibers, corn oil, and maltodextrins for functional food ingredients and ingredients for livestock and pet foods.

8

Chamber Chat

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

UnityPoint Health-Trinity Muscatine sponsored

another successful Community Health Fair on Wednesday, April 30. Hundreds of members of the community came to Calvary Church to visit

with representatives from over 100 participating

organizations.

Megan Johnson of Bickford Senior Living and Kelly

Mortensen of Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors, spent their afternoon on Friday, May

23 volunteering to sell raffle tickets at Hy-Vee for “Sparky”, the 2014 Chevy Spark being raffled off by

GMCCI to support the 4th of July activities for 2015.

Members of the community came out to enjoy the Muscatine Area Farmer’s Market on Saturday, May 24. The market was held on the corner of 3rd and Cedar Streets, in the parking lot across from City Hall. Vendors sold bread, jams, art, books and more. The Muscatine Area Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the parking lot across from City Hall, and Tuesdays from 2:30 to 5:30 in the O’Donnell Ace Hardware store parking lot.

9

Center is a great resource for learning about the community’s past.”

The Muscatine Art Center is funded in part by the Iowa Arts Council, a division of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. They are one of only 775 museums in the nation that is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), and one of only 18 museums in Iowa to have earned accreditation. This honor signifies that the Muscatine Art Center has undergone a rigorous and lengthy process involving intensive self-examination, peer review and a thorough examination by the Accreditation Commission. Accreditation by the AAM means the Muscatine Art Center is recognized for demonstrating excellence and operates in accordance with the best practices and highest standards in the museum field.

Outreach programs are also a part of the Muscatine Art Center’s offerings. Through the years, the Muscatine Art Center has partnered with the Muscatine Community School District to provide school-aged children with special tours, programs and supplemental curriculum materials. Other groups that have benefited from Muscatine Art Center outreach programs are Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine County, the Diversity Service Center of Iowa, and the Muscatine County 4-H Club, just to name a few.

As a non-profit organization, the Muscatine Art Center provides free, family-friendly programs and events, such as “Sunday with Santa”, “Spring Fever Family Festival” and “Once Upon a Time in Iowa”. The Friends of the Muscatine Art Center’s Annual Ice Cream Social is held every year on the Sunday before the 4th of July. The free event features live music and kids’ games and crafts. For a small donation, you can enjoy delicious homemade pies, cakes and ice cream. Proceeds from these donations, and other contributions throughout the year, help support the Muscatine Art Center’s numerous programs.

The Muscatine Art Center has a little bit of something for everyone, so be sure to add it to your summer “must do” list. If you have never visited, you will be surprised by what they have to offer! If you have visited, there is always something new and interesting to explore!The Muscatine Art Center is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is always free, and donations are appreciated.

Continued from page 5

The projection shows an actor in Civil War period costume, reading one of the letters Pvt. Daniel J. Parvin wrote home to his wife Sarah. The letters written by Parvin served as the basis for a portion of the exhibit, “Muscatine and the Civil War: A Sesquicentennial Commemoration”, which was on display from June 2011 through May 2012.

Chamber Dollars Ideal for Summer Entertaining!Chamber Dollar$ FAQ’s

How does a business process this check?

The business receives it exactly like a check good for its total face value. It works just like a gift certificate, if the total is $27 and they hold a $25 Chamber Dollar$ check, the business receives the check as primary payment and the customer pays the difference. If their total is $23 and they hold a $25 check, the business gives them change for the difference. It is good for its face value to the business at the time of deposit.

What exactly is this document?

This is a check distributed by GMCCI and works just like a gift certificate, but it is an actual check given to the buyer. Chamber Dollar$ are issued in the amounts of $5, $10, $15, $20 or $25.

Who can purchase Chamber Dollar$?

Anyone can purchase these checks from GMCCI and use them for a variety of reasons: company gifts, personal gifts, incentives, etc. Chamber Dollar$ are a great way to encourage people to shop locally and support Muscatine businesses.

Where can Chamber Dollar$ be used?

Any business that is a Chamber member accepts Chamber Dollar$. When purchasing Chamber Dollar$, the buyer will be given a list of GMCCI members who accept these checks.

What is the benefit of accepting Chamber Dollar$ in my business?

By accepting Chamber Dollar$ as payment, you will be listed as a participating business for all community

members to see. They encourage citizens to spend their dollars locally, which in turn helps to strengthen the economy.

If you have any questions regarding Chamber Dollar$, please call GMCCI at

10

Blue Zones Project® - Muscatine Updates

Bridgestone Bandag Celebrates Becoming a Blue Zones Worksite®!Bridgestone Bandag Learning Center celebrated their Blue Zones Worksite® designation on Friday, April 25. The

celebration included a program on healthy eating by Hy-Vee dietitian Lindsey Gross. Bridgestone's Wellness Advisory Council discussed their rollout of future activities

for employees. Way to go!

Madison Elementary School is now a Blue Zones School®!

Madison Elementary School celebrated becoming a Blue Zones School® on Friday,

May 2. Students assembled for a ribbon cutting and songs performed by 1st and

2nd grade classes. The giant blue scissors were held by members of the Lighthouse

Club and there were wild cheers when the ribbon was cut. Congratulations!

McKinley Elementary School Celebrates Becoming a

Blue Zones School®! McKinley Elementary School officially

became a Blue Zones School® on Thursday, May 22. Students gathered in the gymnasium to get their blue t-shirts and celebrate becoming a Blue Zones

School®. There was singing and laughter and a big round of applause when they

were awarded their certificate. Great job!

11

Place your ad here!

Call GMCCI today!263-8895

Blue Zones Project® - Muscatine Updates

Avenue Subs Is Now a Blue Zones Restaurant®!Avenue Subs, located at 113 Iowa Avenue, Muscatine,

celebrated becoming a Blue Zones Restaurant® on Monday, May 19. Check their menu for new and

healthier options, including a “lite” version of “The Works” sandwich toppings. Congratulations!

Guadalajara Achieves Designation as a Blue Zones Restaurant®!

Guadalajara Restaurant, 208 East 2nd Street, celebrated becoming a Blue Zones Restaurant ® with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, May 23. They presented their new menu which includes healthy children’s meals and delicious options such as veggie fajitas with corn tortillas. Yum!

City of Muscatine Awarded Plaque for Blue Zones Community Policy® Designation!

On Thursday, May 1, Muscatine City Council, Mayor and City of Muscatine staff received a Blue Zones Community Policy® Designation

plaque in recognition of the City’s completion of built environment and policy action requirements

for the community to qualify for Blue Zones Community® Certification.

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

USPS 391-430PERIODICALS

POSTAGE PAID AT MUSCATINE, IOWA

June

Bob Allbee, Muscatine Community CollegeLynn Allison, Re/Max ProfessionalsPam Collins, Musser Public Library

Kevin Harle, SSAB SteelGreg Harris, Bridgestone BandagJames Hayes, Trinity Muscatine

Tom Hendricks, Taco Johns of MuscatineBob Howard, Central State Bank

Robert E. Howard, Muscatine County Board of Supervisors

Stan Howe, Member EmeritusScott Ingstad, First National Bank

Steve Jameson, Muscatine JournalPaul Kraushaar, Muscatine Physical Therapy

Services, P.C.Doug Krieger, Krieger Motor Company

John Kuhl, Kent CorporationSal LoBianco, Muscatine Power and Water

GMCCI Board of Directors 2014-2015

Jeff Lorenger, HNI CorporationGregg Mandsager, City of MuscatineJay McKee, McKee Button CompanyAnn Meeker, Downtown Muscatine

Renovations, LLCDave Mohr, Eastern Iowa Light & PowerBrett Nelson, Musco Sports Lighting

Dan Paca, Kent FeedsMark Post, Carver Pump CompanyJim Reynolds, Reynolds Engineering

Jerry Riibe, Muscatine Community School DistrictShawn Schrader, Monsanto Company

Christi Saunders, Young Professionals NetworkJim Simmons, Hy-Vee Food Store

Gary Slight, Community BankNancy Snaadt, Alliant Energy

Tiarr Sweere, Stanley, Lande, Hunter P.C.

OfficersChair of the Board

Doug Krieger, Krieger Motor Company Past Chair

Sal LoBianco, Muscatine Power and WaterChair Elect

Bob Allbee, Muscatine Community CollegeTreasurer & Chair-Finance

Bob Howard, Central State BankChair – Membership

Ann Meeker, Downtown Muscatine Renovations, LLCChair – Community DevelopmentSteve Jameson, Muscatine JournalChair - Economic Development

Doug Krieger, Krieger Motor CompanyChair – Public Policy

Mark Post, Carver Pump Company

Directors

5 JuneSCORE1:30 to 3:30 PM

12 JuneSCORE1:30 to 3:30 PM

Business After-HoursHosted by: Muscatine History and Industry Center117 W. 2nd Street, Muscatine5 to 7 PM

19 JuneSCORE1:30 to 3:30 PM

Ribbon Cutting and ReceptionRiver Rehabilitation2008 Cedar Plaza Drive, Muscatine8:30 AM

26 JuneSCORE1:30 to 3:30 PM

27 JuneGMCCI Full Board MeetingHy-Vee Club Room2400 Second Street, MusctineNoon to 1 PM

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PARADE RELEASE, WAIVER, AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

I, ____________________________________, do hereby agree that I am participating in the

Independence Day, 2014, parade, voluntarily and of my own free will. I acknowledge that certain risks may

be associated with this type of activity and I voluntarily assume the risks. I have had an opportunity to be

acquainted with the regulations outlining the parade, ask questions, and have been notified of the route

where the parade will occur. I do hereby waive any claim I may have against the Muscatine Independence

Day Parade Organizers*, their employees, volunteers, or members, for injuries I may sustain as a result of

this parade. I further agree to indemnify the Muscatine Independence Day Parade Organizers* for any and

all injury caused by or suffered to, anyone associated with my entry. Said indemnification shall include all

costs associated with any claim to include Attorney fees and expenses, court costs and actual damages or

judgment entered.

I have attached a copy of the valid driver’s license and proof of insurance for the person that will be

operating the vehicle in the parade.

READ BEFORE SIGNING. YOUR SIGNATURE CREATES A BINDING CONTRACT.

By my signature, I acknowledge that I agree to the above terms and that I have read the

same.

_______________________________________________ Signature Date ____________________________ Print Name ____________________________ Group Name (if any) (Muscatine Independence Day Parade Organizers*) denotes the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Muscatine Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and the City of Muscatine and volunteers for the organizers.

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Muscatine Go Red for Women LuncheonDate: June 19, 2014

Location: Geneva Golf Course & Country Club3100 Bidwell Rd,Muscatine, IA, 52761

Tickets are on sale at muscatinegored.ahaevents.org

Questions, contact Brenda Schmidt at: Brenda.Schmidt@heart.org or call 952-278-7925

Presenting sponsor: