Get Into Grinnell Blog

This year’s Restaurant/Retailer of the Year award recognizes someone on the food and beverage side of the category. This business has been on the scene in Grinnell for almost five years to the day. This entrepreneur was able to marry her passion with a unique and destination business model which has ensured community interest and support. 

From hosting wacky parties and fancy dinners, to political events, trivia and bingo, she supports and builds community in fun and entertaining ways. Her artistic talents are not only on display throughout her establishment, but she recently assisted with a public art endeavor as well.  

 

With a selection of over 150 different wines and beers, you’re guaranteed to find something that will delight your palate. Over the past year, the wine bar saw a transformation to include more of her delicious homemade desserts (and fresh from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies!) as well as freshly concocted flatbreads focusing on fresh, local foods and flavors. 

The last year has been a tough one for her, but she has made such an impact on this commun​​​​​​​ity that her customers and friends stepped up to help this one-woman dynamo keep the business​​​​​​​es’ doors open during a brief leave. Through this, she’s realized how important it is to support others and recently opened the doors of her home to host a fundraiser for the staff of El Molcajete following their recent fire late last year.  

We are sure it’s places like this that contribute to Grinnell’s recent naming as the ‘Most Badass town in the Midwest’ by Matador Network. World-class wine in small-town Iowa. Colleen, we’re glad you chose Grinnell for this adventure.

​​​​​​​Congratulations to this year’s Restaurant of the Year, Solera! 

Each year, we host the Chamber's Annual Celebration and while it is certainly a time to engage and share about our most notable achievements over the past year and outline the work we're setting out to accomplish in the coming year, it's also an opportunity to celebrate the many businesses, organizations and individuals doing wonderful things in our community. We received many, many deserving nominations this year but ultimately had to narrow the selection. Congratulations to our 2019 award recipients who were recognized Wednesday evening:  

	From left: Wade Stoaks, Paisley Pagliai, Haylee Pagliai holding Greyson, Joey Pagliai holding Camden & Tim Willis.

Business of the Year: Pagliai's

Restaurant of the Year: Solera

Service Business of the Year: Smith Funeral Home

Entrepreneur of the Year: Kevin McAlexander

Community Betterment Award: The Stew Art Studios

Volunteer(s) of the Year: Central Park Holiday Committee led by Jennifer McAlexander and comprised of Michelle Butler, Daniel Clements, Gailanne Dill, Jill Hollingsworth, Kevin McAlexander, Kerri Olson, Dodi & Dennis Reilly & Jim White

One to Watch Awards: 
1. Cheryl Juhl, Hair of the Dog Salon
2. Bill Kostow, Lincoln Savings Bank & Community Youth Volunteer
3. Susan Schmidt, Suzi's Boutique
4. Katy Wells, Double You Marketing

20 Under 40 Awards: 

1. Amy Sebring, Brownells
2. Andy Molison, Grin City Bakery
3. Ashley Schaefer, Grinnell College
4. Chelsey Kolpin, Grinnell-Newburg School District
5. Clay Harrold, Grinnell-Newburg School District
6. Clinton Follette, Charnetski, Lacina & Clower
7. Daniel Rodrigues, TL Baker & Company
8. Dave Arsenault Jr., Grinnell College
9. Erin Bustin, Grinnell Children's Choir and United Church of Christ
10. Felicity Meads, Ramsey-Weeks
11. Jared Tokle, Key Cooperative
12. Jason Carberry, Grinnell State Bank and Sips Coffee Company
13. Jason Inskeep, Peace Tree Brewing Company
14. Jessica Dawson, Re/Max Partners Realty
15. Josh Ellis, Grinnell-Newburg School District
16. Julie Smith, Unity Point Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center and AnnaKayte's Boutique
17. Keira Wilson, Grinnell College
18. Matt Blankenfeld, West Side Family Restaurant
19. Nikki Laug, Grinnell Connected
20. Zach Weiderspon, Unity Point Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center

To read more about the award winners, click here. 

Thanks to Jennifer Weinman Photography who took photos throughout the evening, and of our award winners. Special thanks to Grinnell College, Hotel Grinnell and Unity Point Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center for sponsoring the event. It was a great evening! 

To everyone who attended (award in hand at the end of the evening or not) and to all of you reading this newsletter, thank you for the work you do to make Grinnell an amazing place to call home. 

--Rachael Kinnick

p.s. We debuted a new logo during last night's celebration. Check it out in the header! 

Entrepreneur -- it can be a tricky word to say but you'd better practice it often because in small communities we have the privilege of saying it a lot! And this week, during National Entrepreneurship Week, we want to take the time to give all our amazing entrepreneurs in Grinnell and surrounding areas a shout-out. Entrepreneurs are forward-thinking, hard-working, dedicated, passionate and resourceful. They often spend as much time anticipating the 'next big thing' as they do in the daily grind but they always spend an incredible amount of time and passion bettering themselves, their business and their communities.

During this week of recognition, I encourage you to take a quick minute to nominate an Entrepreneur(s) for the hard work they're doing in their business or organization -- maybe it's a start-up or a long-standing entrepreneur that deserves recognition. Whoever it may be, we want them to be nominated to receive the Entrepreneur of the Year award during the Chamber's Annual Business Celebration. Nominate an entrepreneur (and all other award categories) here. 

It truly takes a village of entrepreneurs to make small communities so successful and I'm incredibly grateful to live in a community that values and encourages entrepreneurship.  

--Rachael Kinnick 

p.s. The nomination period for the Annual Celebration Awards closes This Thursday, February 28 at 5pm - submit your nominations today! 

Have you had the opportunity to explore the Smithsonian in Washington D.C.? Is it a favorite destination for you? We all have favorite vacations we've taken, places we're excited to visit next or trips we're currently planning. We often look to get out of town for the weekend, but did you know that many of us find ourselves doing more stay-cations in the State of Iowa? The Iowa Tourism Conference was held last week, and statistics were released showing that 62.4% of 'tourism visits' are from Iowans alike! We know we have unique places to see and things to do across our great state and we take time to check them out. 

Speaking of interesting things to do and see, I invite you all to become tourists in our own community over the next couple months. Grinnell College is excited to announce a new partnership with the Smithsonian to bring SITES (Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service) exhibitions to Grinnell this spring and summer! This partnership will allow Grinnellians and Iowans to have access to the cultural resources of the Smithsonian. 

'Hometown Teams' is the first exhibition and will be on display beginning tomorrow, February 15 through Saturday, April 20. Nowhere do Americans, and Iowans, connect more intimately than sports in their hometowns. This exhibition will be at Drake Community Library in Grinnell, and features photographs, artifacts and interactive components to capture the stories that have unfolded for decades on neighborhood fields and courts, recognizing the underdogs and the legends, and the rivalries. 

The opening ceremony celebration will be held tomorrow from 4:30 to 6:00 PM at Drake Community Library with remarks from Grinnell Mayor Dan Agnew, Grinnell College President Raynard Kington and Grinnell High School Football Coach Brian Sauser. Docents will be on-site during this time to answer any questions and guide guests through the display. 

I hope you'll take time from now through mid-April to become a tourist and explore the Smithsonian! 

--Rachael Kinnick

With our busy lives, we often to forget to take time to appreciate those who make our lives worthwhile. Valentine’s Day is a great reminder to take a few minutes and recognize the loved ones in your life. This year as you look to show your love to your partner, family, friends, four-legged buddies, or neighbors, we want to remind you to show some love locally as well. Winter in the Midwest can be harsh as we’ve all seen the last few weeks. What many of us forget about is how that harsh weather can affect many of our small businesses in revenue and foot traffic. So don’t forget to share a little love with our wonderful shops and services in town; many have special promotions going on just for Valentine’s Day!

Week long promotions:

Bates Flowers by DZyne: Of course you can always get your loved one flowers but don’t forget their great selection of plants, chocolates, candles and other home decor!

Bill’s Jewelry: Get a gift certificate to Vonda’s for a free rose with every purchase.

Brown’s Shoe Fit: $14 off any regular price item $80 or more (excluding Birkenstock) and they’ve got new sandals for spring and summer. And for the gift that always fits, a gift card!

Hair of the Dog: Get your four-legged friend some Valentine’s Day themed treats!

Hotel Grinnell: Get tickets to Saturday’s show featuring comedy by Mike Marvell and music by The Sundogs. They’re also offering buy one menu item at full price and get a 2nd at 1/2 price on Valentine’s Day!

Lil’ Miss Chic Children’s Boutique: Get additions on your purchases February 9th - 16th with their “heart drawing”!

Loralei’s Giftshoppe: Valentine’s Day cards and many heart themed gifts. If you’ve got an Iowa lover, stop by and check out their great Iowa themed gifts!

Medicap Pharmacy: Find the perfect Valentine’s Day card and a great selection of tea for your loved one.
 

Stepping Stones Christian Bookstore: Save $5 with a $25 purchase, $10 with a $50 purchase, $15 with a $75 purchase or $20 with a $100 purchase when you mention you saw this listing or their Facebook ad!

Suzi’s Boutique: 20% off in store Tuesday through Friday, Free rose with every $50 purchase!

Tassel Ridge Winery: Make reservations for Saturday’s Valentine’s Day Wine Dinner or join them early Saturday for their Wine and Chocolate Pairing event!
 

Total Choice Shipping & Printing: Customized Photo Canvas Prints and Photo Prints, Sweet & Snarky Valentines Cards, or ship Grinnell's famous pizza to your out of town loved ones!

UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center: Register your loved one for the Winter Wellness Getaway to get them recharged and refreshed.

Valentine’s Day!

Grinnell Chamber of Commerce: Register the business owner, blogger, phone photo lover in your life to our Photography and Videography Marketing Power Hour course!

Los Griasoles Mexican Restaurant: Valentine's Day special is mixed Fajitas for two, two glasses of home-made sangria and a small so papilla all for $24.95!

Peace Tree Brewing: Valentine’s Day Cupcake & Beer Pairing starting at 4pm.

Relish: Live music by Violinist Esme. Specials include; Brie melt with marmalade, surf and/or turf, Lamb chops, fish of the day, and passion fruit mousse in chocolate cups.

Solera: Stop by for a pre-dinner drink, try one of her tasty pizzas, or finish your night with a great glass of wine and a turtle cake or fresh baked chocolate chip cookie!

Strand Theater: Spend the evening catching a great new movie. Click here for showtimes.

Did you know the average small business invests about 1% of its revenues into advertising each year, with about half of that spent on traditional marketing and the other half spent in digital platforms? As marketing avenues continue to change it is important for businesses to change their approaches at the same time which is why the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce will again be hosting our Marketing Power Hour with the first event kicking off February 14. 

This quarterly event focuses on different marketing techniques and is intended for business owners, marketing directors or anyone with an interest in learning more about marketing options for their business or organization. This year's sessions will focus on a variety of topics including phone photo/videography, blogging and e-newsletters, social media updates, and how to get the best customer reviews. All sessions will be taught be an expert in the industry, and it is our goal that attendees leave the hour with a couple tips or tricks to improve their marketing strategy. 

The first session will focus on phone photo/videography and be taught by Drake University professor Chris Snider. Snider teaches courses in social media strategy, multimedia, digital media and web design. He has spent his career pushing for innovative and creative ways to tell and present stories and has previously worked with the Des Moines Register as editor of Juice magazine, and with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and the Baltimore Sun. 

All businesses and organizations are invited to attend. Sign-up today for this year's Marketing Power Hour series and click here to find more details on February's event. 

Tomorrow kicks off a new 10 Days of Kindness initiative in Grinnell, celebrating the power and importance of intentional kindness in our community. Inspired by a Grinnell College alum, Lori Myren-Manbeck, community members are invited to a number of 'kindness' events throughout the community over the next ten days. These events are intended to provide an opportunity to bring community members together in unique and meaningful ways and encourage kindness through conversation. 

Whether you're able to attend the events or not, would you please take a few moments each of the next ten days to practice intentional kindness? Whether it be personally, professionally, or both it's safe to say our world would be a much better place if we made a purposeful choice to be more kind to our friends and neighbors. Kindness can be interpreted and shown in a number of ways -- please take a few moments to choose kindness in the days to come, and make an effort to keep the momentum going long after these ten days are over. 

To find more details on all the events and activities planned by a number of community organizations and individuals as part of the 10 Days of Kindness, click here. 

--Rachael Kinnick

p.s. Show kindness to businesses by  nominating them or individuals for our Annual Awards Celebration! 

Hello all! I am Mariah and I recently started as the Member & Special Projects Coordinator for the Chamber. I grew up in Montezuma and following high school moved to Indianola to pursue a degree in public relations at Simpson College. After graduating it only took me a few months to decide home is where the heart is.

Before moving back to the area, I spent time exploring career opportunities while trying to decide what to do with my life. I knew I wanted to make a difference while using my degree, I just didn't know how to get there. When I came across the posting for this position, I knew exactly where I wanted to be.

Even though I've only spent a few weeks at the Chamber, I can tell I have found a career I love. Being able to put my passions in communications, event planning and social media towards the community of Grinnell has been rewarding already. I have loved meeting new people and look forward to building connections with many of you.
 

I am excited to be in the area and get to know the people and city of Grinnell more and more. I love being part of a nonprofit that puts so much effort into serving the community. Rachael and Kendra's love towards Grinnell and the chamber is evident and I enjoy working with their enthusiasm every day. 

I am grateful and excited for this new chapter in my life and look forward to being a part of and learning more about this community!

--Mariah Hirsch

Struggling to find that perfect gift for your loved one this holiday season? We’ve pulled together some great suggestions that you can pick up right here in Grinnell!
 

Give the Gift of Adult Indulgence

• Atmosphere Vapors has nearly anything and everything related to vaping. Not sure where to start? Their friendly staff can help you pick the perfect product or they also have gift cards available for purchase.
• Peace Tree Brewing Companyhas all your favorite flavors of Iowa beer. Get a six-pack or growler along with a t-shirt, bottle opener, or hat so they can represent their favorite beer anywhere.
• Solera has a number of wines and beers available for purchase perfect for gifts or the holiday parties on your calendar. They’ll also gift-wrap your presents or gift baskets if you need it!
• Tassel Ridge Winery is just a short drive south from Grinnell but with nearly 40 wines on their list it’s the perfect gift for the wine connoisseur on your list. They also have a great selection of wine related gifts and food! 
• Van Wijk Winery is just down the road in Sully has a great selection of wine and beer with the addition of specialty coffee and tea! Treat your special person to an afternoon out at their cozy tasting room or join them for one of their weekly events. 

Give the Gift of Green

• Bates Flowers by DZyne can create a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers or pick up a succulent for those who like to grow their own. With the addition of great home decorations, Bate’s has a little something for everyone. 
• Grinnell Farmers Market vendors have product available locally in the off-season. Check out the list of participating vendors at www.grinnellfarmersmarket.com You can also purchase Farmers Market gift certificates to be used for the 2019 market at the Grinnell Chamber office. Call 641-236-6555 for more details. 
• Theisen’s offers everything you need for the gardener in your life. Grab outdoor supplies available now or pick up a gift card they can use on flowers come spring.

Give the Gift of Health and Wellness

• Acupuncture Clinic of Grinnell offers everything needed to get your mind clear this holiday season. From acupuncture, to Feng Shui to Herbal Medicine, Anne Stephens can provide personalized treatment programs for anyone.
• Anytime Fitnessis currently running a special with 2 months of membership free when you sign up for a full year! They’ve got brand new equipment, personal trainers, and supplements available to help your loved ones achieve their fitness goals. Gift certificates are available.
• Bikes to You has all the gear your bike rider will need for 2019. With options like clothing and headlights, bike locks and water bottles, or maybe even a new bike, there’s something for every skill level available. 
• Brown's Shoe Fit has a great selection of running shoes for your loved one to step into the new year in style!
• Grinnell College Golf Course can help you get your golfer ready for the 2019 season. Their pro-shop has all the latest gear and can be shopped in person or online! You can also purchase 2019 season passes or pick up a gift card online.
• Oakland Acres Golf Club has 2019 membership on sale or purchase a gift certificate for your future PGA golfer to practice their swing on the indoor simulators.
• Paul W Ahrens Fitness Center & Crossfit Poweshiek are conveniently located downtown with access to personal trainers and nutritionists to help you get back on track this holiday season. 
• Postel’s Community Health Park offers a variety of services from massage and relaxation therapies to salt scrubs, body wraps and more. They also have essential oils available for purchase! Give the gift of relaxation with a gift certificate. They’re currently running a special, buy $100 for $80!
• Sadler Acupuncture specialized in pain treatment. With patient-centered care, Danielle can help you or your loved one start the year off feeling less pain.

Give the Gift of Iowa Pride

• Awards Unlimited has all the GHS gear your friends and family need to cheer on the Tigers in 2019.
• Giggles and Bows can keep your little Cyclone or Hawkeye ready for game day with a huge selection of ISU or Iowa gear. 
• Loralei’s Giftshoppe has unique Home Sweet Iowa decorations and Iowa made candles so you and your loved ones can sport your Iowa Pride in every room of the house! 
• Pioneer Bookshop brings Pioneer Pride downtown with their great selection of Grinnell College gear. They also have a cool new Grinnell, Iowa sweatshirt. Stop by and pick one up – supplies are limited!

Give the Gift of an Updated Look

• Anna Kayte’s Boutique has all the latest fashion for the ladies in your life. Shop online and pick up in store! 
• Bill’s Jewelry has you covered if you’re looking for something a little sparkly under the tree this year. Spend $500 and get $50 off!
• The Glass Gift Box gives you the ability to pull double duty this holiday season. The latest in-home décor and women’s fashion with proceeds going to the hospital’s Auxiliary it’s a perfect place to shop and give back.
• Lil’ Miss Chic Children’s Boutique will make sure your girls are perfectly dressed with great casual pieces and runway ready outfits for all those holiday parties.
• Phase 2 Consignments brings men and women’s gently used fashion to downtown Grinnell, making it convenient to pick up a few pieces this holiday season. They also have a great selection of kids’ clothes and jewelry! 
• Wagon Wheels West has all your men’s and women’s western wear, accessories, and home décor. 

Give the Gift of a Full Stomach

• Pick up a gift certificate to Los Girasoles, Pagliai’s, Relish, Periodic Table, Pizza Ranch or Peppertree at the Depot Crossing and give the gift of a night out and a happy belly this holiday season.

Give the Gift of Lunch

• Treat your friend of coworker to a well-deserved lunch on you at 1854 Deli, Chuong Garden or Frontier Café!

Give the Gift of a Full Fridge

• Pick up a gift card to Hy-Vee, Fareway, or McNally’s for those who love to do their own cooking.

Give the Gift of Cherished Memories

• Give the gift of forever memories with a photo package by Cory Hall Photography, Jennifer Weinman Photography or Jessica Greenwell Photography. All our local photographers do studio portraits or travel to where your family is most comfortable!
• Total Choice Shipping & Printing can put those new photos on beautiful canvases or photo cards for you to share this holiday season. Don’t forget they can ship all of your gifts as well!
• Ballyhoo in Ink can personalize nearly anything you can imagine (they often hand out their logo printed on a walnut shell) along with custom t-shirts, mugs, signs, and more. If you can dream it, they can make it happen.
• Beckman Gallery & Gifts has beautiful custom frames for all those new family photos so they can be displayed in your loved one’s home.
• Stepping Stones Christian Bookstore has a great selection of unique gifts this holiday season. From ornaments to home décor, books and calendars, to cards and gift bags, stop by and find that perfect gift for your loved one.

Give the Gift of DIY

• Looking for the ever-popular chalk paint? Perhaps a new set of tools or planters are on someone’s wish list. Paul’s Ace Hardware has all the supplies and gear your DIY-er needs this holiday season. Not sure what to get? Gift cards are always a great selection!
• Malcolm Lumber has the materials for all your woodworking projects (including pallets)! After touring their new kitchen and bath studio you may want to give yourself a big something this holiday season.
• Village Decorating Studio will be your go-to stop for the HGTV lover in your home. Flooring, window treatments, cabinetry, paint and more, Lori and her team will help you design the house of your dreams this holiday season.

Give Man’s Best Friend a Gift

• Hair of the Dog Salon can pamper your best friend with a wash, a groom or you can pick up a new toy and treat to keep them busy while everyone else is opening presents. With a great selection of healthy dog food, your best bud is sure to be wagging their tail this holiday season.
• Poweshiek Animal Shelter’s PALS Park membership is the perfect gift to get your buddy out and playing in 2019. Their 2.5 acre space features a wooded walk area, agility training equipment and a separate space for small dogs!

Give the Gift of a Car Refresh

• If your loved one is traveling this holiday season, treat them to a tune up and check with Linder Tire to make sure they make it to their destination safely! 
• Arnold Motor Supply and Napa Auto Parts have all the pieces your gear head needs to do their own work. Gift cards are available at both locations!
• We haven’t had snow yet but we’re sure to get some this winter so give the gift of safety with new winter tires from Grinnell Firestone this holiday season!
• Give the gift of the ultimate garage update – a new car! Steve Link Ford Lincoln and Wes Finch Auto Plaza have great options for those looking to drive into 2019 in style.

Give the Give of Usefulness

• New furniture from Uhlmann’s Home Furnishings will ensure your loved one (or yourself) is perfectly comfortable while unwrapping gifts or watching your favorite movies this holiday season.
• Trying to stay in touch more in 2019? A new phone or tablet from US Cellular or Verizon would be a perfect fit. They also have a great supply of accessories for all your electronic devices!
• Give the gift of new appliances from Starnes TV & Appliance! 

Still aren't sure what to get them? Grinnell Bucks always make a great gift!