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The Art of Leadership: Guiding the Grinnell Area Arts Council to an Artsy Future

Posted on 09/09/2025 at 2:54 PM

Monica St. Angelo was always a lover of the arts. As a classically trained dancer, she taught ballet at Grinnell College and choreographed for the Grinnell Community Theatre for musicals like the Music Man. So it was no surprise she began working at the Grinnell Area Arts Council (GAAC).

The GAAC is a community favorite, known for hosting local artist exhibitions, theatre performances, and Music in the Park. When St. Angelo came across the operations manager position at the GAAC, it was the perfect time for a new career — she had gathered experience as an owner of a yoga studio and had been a former GAAC board member in the early 2000s. But after 7 years in her operations role, she recently stepped into a leadership role as GAAC’s newest executive director. 

“It was a natural promotion,” says St. Angelo. “I was already doing a lot of the work of an executive director and because of that, I know the organization well.”

Ten years ago, establishing the role of an executive director became a focus within the board. The role would 1) solidify the GAAC as a pinnacle of the Grinnell community, 2) be a point person for the organization and gather new ideas, and 3) ensure that GAAC programming fit with community needs.

What does the role mean for St. Angelo? “It means to make sure the bills are being paid,” laughs St. Angelo, “but in all seriousness, the executive director just has that freedom to think about the future, what we can do today, and what we can do next.” 

Much of what is currently programmed at the GAAC are long-time community favorites such as Music in the Park and Studio 6 Afterschool Program. In her new role, St. Angelo says that she and her board are focused on what the community loves so far and expanding arts-focused opportunities in the community.

Most recently, GAAC celebrated with an opening reception of A Breath of Line / A Body of Color by local artist John Weave, who grew up in Gilman, Iowa, and now splits time between Grinnell and the Netherlands. During other times of the year, the GAAC showcases art from Grinnell College’s art majors, too, as well as art from local elementary, middle, and high schools. 

In October, the GAAC will also launch their first-ever Spooky Town exhibit, which will showcase artwork from students from Studio 6 and run in conjunction with their children's Spooky Haunted House on October 25.

“I strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity and freedom to be creative. We all start when we are kids — everyone is simply an artist in some way. I’m excited to offer opportunities for people to be involved, whether watching performances by the Grinnell Community Theatre, joining the Community Band, or making art at the Stew Makerspace.”

At the GAAC, the art never stops. Over the summer, St. Angelo procured artwork from different community events and hubs, such as Storytime Art in the Park, LINK, and Drake Community Library. Together, the pieces will serve as part of a larger scavenger hunt in the spring. The public art project is inspired by how loved the wheat paste murals were by the Grinnell community

If you would like to support the Grinnell Area Arts Council, consider contributing a monthly recurring payment of as low as $10, or attending events or workshops that help cover costs for staffing, supplies, and more. Plus, businesses can sponsor GAAC’s programming. Watch out for fundraising efforts, such as the Stew Fest Fundraiser, or support local artists directly through events like the local artist market. 

“Many people have spent years and energy in keeping the Arts Council thriving,” says St. Angelo, “but most importantly, keeping its legacy going.”

 

Chamber Ambassadors from left to right:

  • Nikki Armstead — Grinnell Chamber
  • Rachel Arseneault — Ramsey-Weeks Inc. Real Estate
  • Erin Bustin — Grinnell School of Music
  • Trent Arment — MCG - Mahaska Communication Group
  • Sarah Smith — Grinnell College
  • Ashley Sorensen — Volunteer Iowa
  • Donnette Ellis — Grinnell College
  • Monica St. Angelo — Grinnell Area Arts Council
  • Stephanie Lair — UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center
  • Kody Bigelow — Walmart Grinnell
  • Tom Lacina — GAAC Board Member
  • Mary Lindberg — GAAC Board Member
  • Chris Hunter — GAAC Board Member
  • Nicole Donnelly — Poweshiek Insurance Agency
  • Bill Menner — GAAC Board Member
  • Craig Gibbens — Grinnell Area Arts Council
  • Lisa Cirks — Cirks Financial Services
  • Alesia Lacina — Grinnell Area Arts Council
  • Yesenia Mozo — Grinnell Chamber 
  • Lauren Emge — Grinnell Area Arts Council
  • Fran Conn

Alta Bella: A Glamorous Experience for the Books

Posted on 09/02/2025 at 4:54 PM

When you walk into Alta Bella by the The Edge Hair Studio's, the experience is electrifying — a beautiful lavender smell, rows of colorful shampoo bottles, and a makeup section that reminds you a bit of Sephora.

This morning, the Chamber Ambassadors celebrated Alta Bella’s name change and service additions with a ribbon cutting. Alta Bella means “total beauty” in Italian, explained owner Laura Maurer, and that is exactly what her hair salon delivers.

Maurer was always into beauty. Starting in 8th grade, she styled her sister’s hair, cut her stepdad and cousins’ hair, and trimmed many loved ones’ bangs. “I always liked making people feel good about themselves,” says Maurer. “When someone first comes in, I usually ask first: ‘What bothers you when you look in the mirror?’”

Her current hair salon is drastically different from the little salon she owned on the farther side of town. But after the 2020 derecho storm in Grinnell, she decided to move to Commercial St.“I decided to expand to a bigger space and hoped that the market would join us,” recalls Maurer.

And expand they did — Maurer and her staff bought new hair and makeup products, invested in high technology facial treatments, and delved into the future of skin care and rejuvenation by hiring a medical director.

Maurer highlighted one of their newest services – the Exion Face Applicator machine and EMFACE to the Ambassadors, products they recently began offering from a cutting edge company in Prague in the Czech Republic. The EMFACE machine primarily uses radiofrequency heating to stimulate collagen and elastin production, as well as build up facial muscles for optimal rejuvenation.

The EMFACE machine can treat different parts of the face, from the eyes to cheek bones to foreheads — whether to build collagen back up or reduce fine lines and puffiness. “With your cheeks, it builds your muscles up but doesn't burn fat, so you don’t look so hollow afterwards.” Collagen is a molecule that the body naturally produces, explains Maurer, but with a boost of production, it helps to fill in fine lines and wrinkles.

“The Exion machine is not to make you look twenty years younger than you actually are,” says Maurer, “but to help you look fresh using non-toxic treatments throughout the body.” The machine is also a “muscle builder” and works to give areas more volume, such as lifting cheeks, and eliminating jowl. Exion helps produce more elastin, preventing sagginess in the skin.

The medical director helps choose which treatments are right for Alta Bella clients — signing off on treatments and helping clients feel secure when undergoing these noninvasive treatments. Maurer’s staff is also incredibly talented, not only equipped with extensive hair styling experience, but are certified in conducting treatments using the EMFACE and Exion machines.

And if you are looking for a glamorous beauty experience, the staff at Alta Bella have a makeup section to shop from. Plus, they can do your makeup — whether for bridal showers, prom, or just a simple touchup after an appointment.

Ready to jump into your beauty journey? Visit Maurer and her team at 804 Commercial St. to set an appointment, or view their services on their website: https://mysite.vagaro.com/theedgehairstudios. They are also looking to hire an esthetician, so if you are skilled and available, reach out to join their team!

Chamber Ambassadors, from left to right:

UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Brings Services to You!

Posted on 08/30/2025 at 5:17 PM

Happy Saturday, Grinnell residents! Here are some fun facts and tricks from our sponsor, UnityPoint Health — Grinnell Medical Regional Center, as part of our New Resident Welcome #SponsorshipSaturday series! 

UnityPoint Health - Grinnell (UPH) is made up of a huge team that cares for the Grinnell community. But three gals work diligently behind the scenes to show the world what happens on the inside. Meet the UPH marketing team: Steph Lair and Christina Prevette, senior marketing communications specialists, and Maddy Turpin, marketing communications specialist. Together, they promote UPH’s upcoming events, news, and services, such as their new machinery, external partnerships, and emergency care services. 

On September 25, 2025, they will greet new residents at the Grinnell Chamber’s New Resident Welcome event! In the meantime, they want to share some news and hidden gems around the Grinnell community to both new and long-standing residents alike:

  1. UPH - Grinnell has a variety of specialty clinics, a couple of which include orthopedics and bariatric surgery. “The care you need is so close to home,” says Lair. “This way, people don’t have to travel to reach different services available in Des Moines or Iowa City.”
  2. If you have any questions about the services and care UPH provides, different providers partner with the Grinnell Farmers Market to spread information about their general (plus free) services! You can also catch staff members hosting community events, like the upcoming Unity in the Community 5K/3K run/walk on October 4!
  3. Workout at the Paul W. Ahrens Fitness Center on 824 Commercial St., where they offer weekly and monthly passes! There are also group classes available, like gentle yoga, spinning, and aquatic fitness. Plus, add personalized training sessions.
  4. UPH - Grinnell recently received the Center of Excellence award, meaning they were awarded a grant as a rural dessert to expand their maternal health services and allow them the opportunity to travel once a week to Marshalltown to spread services. Fun fact: their maternal services include the only delivery option in a 4-county radius!
  5. Visit the UPH website for up to date information — from closures to adjusted hours. You can also schedule an appointment online and see what works for you in real time. 
  6. UPH just bought a new mammograph machine — this means comfortable paddles, less radiation, and efficient breast cancer screening experiences right here in Grinnell.
  7. Attend the New Resident Welcome and get connected! “There are so many well-known people here that would love to help connect you with others,” says Lair. Registration link found here and below! 

At the New Resident Welcome, expect a few things from the UPH Marketing Team! Get information pamphlets about UnityPoint physicians and services, and walk away with free giveaway items, like bandaid holders, hand sanitizer and more! Long-standing residents, make sure to follow UPH and the Poweshiek Public Health page for announcements of new services, pointers in taking care of your health, and free support groups or primary care.

“It’s great meeting new people in town,” says Lair. “And we don’t need to talk about healthcare [at New Resident Welcome], so just come and say hi!” Make sure to register today: /en/events/new_resident_welcome/.

Converge Chiropractic PLLC: Home of the Chiropractor Who's All He's “Cracked” Up to Be

Posted on 08/26/2025 at 3:57 PM

Crack, snapple, pop! That’s how your back will sound when you visit Converge Chiropractic PLLC with Dr. Blake Pearson… just kidding, of course! Dr. Pearson is a well-known *gentle* chiropractor in Grinnell, and we celebrated his inauguration to the Grinnell Chamber with a ribbon cutting!

When Dr. Pearson was younger, he was rear-ended in a car accident, emerging with a whiplash injury he mitigated by using muscle relaxers. But when he couldn’t move his body as well, even with this treatment, he decided to visit his first chiropractor, Dr. Ford. “I thought at the time, ‘wow, this isn’t a bad career path,’” he tells the Chamber Ambassadors. 

Eventually, Dr. Pearson opened his chiropractic and wellness clinic in 2020, after purchasing the building in the fall of 2019. Despite the many obstacles thrown his way while trying to open his doors, Pearson is celebrating 5 years of doing business in Grinnell!

“Chiropractic essentially means using your hands to help heal the body by moving the vertebrae,” explains Dr. Pearson. “We use our spine often, so there is naturally a lot of wear and tear on it — essentially, we move the nervous system from misalignment to make us feel better.” At his clinic, Dr. Pearson has several adjustment rooms, a sauna, and a massage room for those seeking a massage therapist. Plus, Dr. Pearson has an arsenal of tools at his clinic, such as the tens tool, a portable unit that helps with muscle spasms and to distract the brain from pain.

Most of the time, many of Dr. Pearson’s clients come in with generic lower back pain. However, his areas of care extend beyond that. Not only does he treat muscle spasms or trauma-related cases from accidents, but he also treats people with headaches, scoliosis, arthritis, and disc issues. As someone who specializes with most muscular skeletal issues, he also coaches clients on strengthening weaker muscles in the body and develops personalized care plans. “A lot of the time, we see people who either overdo it with their back muscles, or don't use their core or glute muscles enough.” 

Alongside Dr. Pearson is his wife, Megan, who works part-time at the practice. Megan grew up receiving chiropractic care as part of her regular healthcare — ever since she was 7 years old! “When I started dating Blake, I got a little nervous. What if he is not a good chiropractor? I’ll have to put up with adjustments I don’t want for the rest of my life!” She laughs as she tells the story, confirming with the Chamber Ambassadors that Dr. Pearson gives great adjustments and is the (chiropractic!) one.

Together, the Pearsons experienced an infrared sauna in Des Moines and Seattle and decided to bring it to Grinnell. “We thought, well, we have our own wellness clinic, so why not?” says Megan. The Pearsons’ infrared sauna is different from a typical sauna — instead of hot air that wafts around at 200 degrees, this one uses infrared waves to penetrate body tissues at 145 degrees in the cabin. “It really isn’t as oppressive,” says Megan, “and there is a ton of research about its benefits — it helps with heavy metal detox, promotes hormone health, alleviates joint pain, and stress.” 

Although many of Dr. Pearson’s clientele skews a bit older, he regularly sees patients as young as 2 years old. Noting that often women are the primary driver for family healthcare, he funnily adds that eventually the husbands can’t resist and opt in to care, too! Plus, cost shouldn’t deter you from stopping in to see him. “Health care isn’t a luxury; we make sure to make our services affordable so more people can receive care,” shares Pearson. His practice takes virtually all insurances; set an appointment by calling 641-236-9852!

In late September, Converge Chiropractic will also host an open house to celebrate their five-year anniversary! Stay tuned on the Chamber’s communication channels for more details.

Chamber Ambassadors, from left to right:

  • Yesenia Mozo — Grinnell Chamber
  • Matt Moyer — Bayer Crop Science
  • Stephanie Lair — UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center
  • Claire Burch — Temp Associates Grinnell
  • Hannah O’Polka — Cleanfoodfix Wellness Studio 
  • Blake Pearson — Converge Chiropractic
  • Kody Bigelow — WalMart Grinnell
  • Megan Pearson — Converge Chiropractic
  • Nicole Donnelly — Poweshiek Insurance Agency
  • Jennifer McAlexander — JM Consulting & Hawkeye Lock & Security
  • Fran Conn
  • Trent Arment — MCG - Mahaska Communication Group
  • Monica St. Angelo — Grinnell Area Arts Council
     

Grinnell Mutual: A Company Insuring Community Vitality and Support

Posted on 08/23/2025 at 10:51 AM

This is not a drill! It’s a new #SponsorshipSaturday with Grinnell Mutual — don’t miss their fun facts and tips to “get into Grinnell!” And if you’re a new resident, come celebrate at our New Resident Welcome event on Thursday, September 25, 2025!

Barb Baker is the director of advertising and community relations at Grinnell Mutual. Simply put, she manages corporate advertisements on a local and larger scale…more specifically, across 13 states! Grinnell Mutual is a property and casualty company, meaning any Grinnell resident can buy auto, home, or small business insurance through local independent agents — like Chamber member Ramsey-Weeks, Inc.  — and request Grinnell Mutual insurance to cover accidents! Larger businesses, like Poweshiek Insurance Company, can also come to Grinnell Mutual directly to purchase reinsurance coverage.

But Baker’s work isn’t all insurance related — as the person in charge of community relations, she manages the Grinnell Mutual Group Foundation, which puts money directly into the community, including hospitals, schools, and non-profit organizations! Some fun facts and tricks from Baker on behalf of Grinnell Mutual:

  1. Grinnell Mutual is one of the biggest employers in Grinnell, with over 700 people working within their company. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Grinnell Mutual’s generous flexibility allowed many employees to transition into a hybrid model where they can work from home and from the office.
  2. Much of Grinnell Mutual’s philanthropy work goes into schools, hospitals, and non-profits. They also support local businesses and purchase advertising on local radio stations and newspapers. 
  3. The Grinnell Mutual website has a nifty tool to locate local, independent insurance agents in Grinnell. Manipulate it to find an agent a 10 or 15 mile radius near you by entering your zip code!
  4. Grinnell Mutual partners with the local middle school to do highway clean ups and helps do occasional Community Days of Caring and Cleaning. 
  5. Check out the Grinnell Mutual Family Aquatic Center — the last day for this season is Sunday, August 24!
  6. Follow Grinnell Mutual’s Facebook page for tricks to stay safe and healthy, like using strong passwords, staying safe from mosquitoes, and proper backyard swimming pool safety.
  7. A personal tip from Baker to residents: “The recreational opportunities are rich, so enjoy the neighborhood parks and bike trails! I enjoy them with my four grandchildren.”

Overall, Baker wants people to know what a great place Grinnell is to work and raise their families, “whether you're a customer, employee, or someone involved in a community initiative Grinnell Mutual is involved in,” says Baker. If you see her in the community, introduce yourself! Her husband works at the local school district and she loves living in Grinnell with her family.

On behalf of Grinnell Mutual, Baker invites you to attend the New Resident Welcome event in September! “We love to participate because it feels like actively supporting Chamber efforts and being a strong business partner to the community.” Don’t be a stranger and say hi!
 

Flavors Of 50112: First Year and Renfrow Hall Residents to Meet Grinnell with the Chamber of Commerce

Posted on 08/21/2025 at 10:40 AM

By Yesenia Mozo ’22

Students met fellow Renfrow Hall residents last year at the inaugural welcome event for new downtown Renfrow Hall residents.

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With the new academic year bubbling on the horizon, the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to partner with Grinnell College’s Office of Community Partnerships, Planning and Research, and Division of Student Affairs to welcome college students into town! On Monday, August 25, first-year students and Renfrow Hall downtown residents are invited to experience a taste of Grinnell.

As part of the Grinnell Chamber’s warm welcome, the event will feature yummy bite samples from some of its members, including Prairie Hospitality Group, Grin City Bakery, and Dari Barn. Not only will students meet fellow first-year students and the Chamber staff (one of which is a Grinnell College alumna!), but they will also meet local business owners and discover resources to connect with local community events and volunteer opportunities.

“There is no doubt that the atmosphere in the town is different when the college students are back in town,” says Julie Smith, owner of the charming McNally’s grocery store. McNally’s is one of many businesses participating in the Grinnell Chamber’s discount program this year. 

At the upcoming event, first-year and Renfrow Hall students will receive a Student Discount Card, courtesy of the Chamber and its members. Participating restaurants and retailers will provide discounts and deals to students who present their discount cards at their businesses, including members like CleanFoodFix Wellness Studio, Anna Kayte’s Boutique, and Witte’s Home Decorating. “We are excited to see the students, and the discount program is our way of saying thank you for the vitality they bring to downtown,” adds Smith.

Fostering a strong connection between college students and the Chamber’s local businesses is a key focus for Rachael Kinnick, president and CEO of the Grinnell Chamber. “We want students to build relationships with not only our office at the Chamber of Commerce but also with all our downtown businesses,” she says. “We want them to know they are welcome here and that we are excited to have them.”

Last year, when the Chamber of Commerce held a similar event for new Renfrow Hall residents, the discount program debuted to help students explore local retailers and restaurants as they began settling into the greater Grinnell community. About 95 students came to interact with the town’s local business owners and employees, making it no question that the event would return again to greet a new portion of the town’s residents.

Monica Chavez-Silva, Grinnell College’s vice president of community engagement and strategic planning, is excited to support the Chamber after the successful inaugural event. “Wonderful collaborative events like this between the College and the Chamber highlight the shared opportunities and collective energy that come from working together,” she shares, “while also giving our students meaningful ways to connect with the place they call home during their time here. We are excited to welcome new students and returning students to campus and the community of Grinnell.”

With the help of Grinnell College, the Grinnell Chamber has also been able to incorporate current student experiences, like using their Dining Dollars meal plan, into the greater Grinnell community. Chamber members, such as Pagliali’s Pizza and McNally’s, accept dining dollars for students to regularly dine and enjoy study snacks beyond campus.

“It is so important to have students in the community, whether at shops or restaurants,” remarks Smith. “When students see people they know work at McNally’s, for example, or meet a fellow college student working there for the first time, it builds a sense of community. Then they really are seeing what it is like to live here.”

Explore, connect, and “Get Into Grinnell” with the Chamber on Monday, August 25, at the Katherine Howell Weingart ‘61 Civic Innovation Pavilion on 1033 Broad St. Truly experience the full array of flavors that Grinnell has to offer you during your time living in the heart of downtown or throughout your four years on campus. To learn more about the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce, explore their website, grinnellchamber.org, or visit their social media platforms, @GrinnellChamber on Facebook and @grinnelliowa on Instagram.

About the Author

Yesenia Mozo graduated from Grinnell College with a psychology degree and a policy studies concentration. After graduation, she stayed at her alma mater as a content specialist within the Communications and Marketing Office. As the current Marketing and Communications Coordinator with the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce, she helps advance economic growth within local businesses, and coordinates local programming and community events to help make the Grinnell community a great place to live, learn, work, and play. Yesenia is originally from New Jersey, and in her free time, she loves to travel, read, and play board games. She is also a NJ SEEDS alumna from 2014 and a School Year Abroad France graduate from 2017.

A Match Made in Heaven: RSVP a Volunteer Opportunity Today!

Posted on 08/19/2025 at 3:50 PM

Ashley Sorensen is a matchmaker — but not exactly for love! As the new RSVP Volunteer Coordinator for Poweshiek County, Ashley Sorensen is looking to match volunteer opportunities with one specific demographic in the county: retired, senior individuals!

This morning, Sorensen visited the Chamber Ambassadors and shared what her last four months have been like in her new role. She has been “getting into Grinnell,” discovering local spots to find older (55+) Grinnell residents and helping them find their dream volunteer opportunities.

“There are so many benefits to volunteering,” emphasizes Sorensen. “Not only do you get out of the house, but studies show that those who volunteer tend to live longer, find purpose, and be happier.”

In her role, Sorensen matches retired and senior individuals to local organizations across Poweshiek County, such as non-profits, public schools, and health-related sectors. Since she entered her new position, she has doubled the number of active volunteers in her program — by the end of the year, she hopes to have recruited at least 150 people in the area!

As Sorensen explores how people spend their time in the Grinnell community, she has found a few interesting things. She has found that older folks enjoy visiting McNally’s for morning coffees and spend time learning new topics through the Drake Community Library’s bucket courses. When she meets people in these community spots who are interested in volunteering, she matches them! 

“Match is very important,” shares Sorensen. “There are so many cool volunteers with different skills and interests, so we want to fit them in organizations that match those skills.” She currently has one volunteer in Montezuma who delivers books to homebound individuals, and in the upcoming school year, she will have a volunteer who writes pen pal letters to elementary school students. Sorensen also noted that folks can volunteer to drive people to their doctor’s appointments or grocery store shopping — volunteer opportunities with RSVP can range from providing social connection to other people, improving access to food, or providing youth support. Sorensen works with each organization and identifies ways each location would utilize their volunteers — this way, she has the best opportunity to create a perfect volunteer match. She already has relationships with organizations like LINK Grinnell and the Mayflower.

“One great part of RSVP is that people can be reimbursed for their mileage when they volunteer,” says Sorensen. “We also have insurance if, for example, you break your glasses during a volunteering shift.” As her group of volunteers are trained and begin new work schedules, their hours are recorded to know the amount of impact they are having on their local communities.

Currently, Sorensen is looking for volunteers and friendly faces to help out at places like Farm to Table, the Grinnell Historical Museum, and for the occasional one-time special events. If you are older than 55 years old or if you have an older friend, encourage them to volunteer through RSVP! The process is pretty simple — fill out a volunteer application and walk through the RSVP handbook. Then, Sorensen will match your skills and interests with those of local organizations. Contact Ashley Sorensen at 641-888-0989, or email ashley.sorensen@volunteeriowa.org. If you are a new resident to Grinnell, Sorensen is excited to greet newcomers who are ready to jump into volunteer opportunities at the Chamber’s New Resident Welcome event being held September 25!

Chamber Ambassadors from left to right: 

  • Claire Burch — Temp Associates Grinnell
  • Lisa Cirks — Cirks Financial Services
  • Matt Moyer — Bayer Crop Science
  • Rachel Arseneault — Ramsey-Weeks Inc. Real Estate
  • Fran Conn
  • Jennifer McAlexander — JM Consulting & Hawkeye Lock & Security
  • Joni Schmidt — The Mayflower Community
  • Kody Bigelow — WalMart Grinnell
  • Ashley Sorensen — Volunteer Iowa
  • Nikki Armstead — Grinnell Chamber
  • Dedee Lehman — All In Real Estate Inc
  • Blake Pearson — Converge Chiropractic
  • Monica St. Angelo — Grinnell Area Arts Council
  • Trent Arment — MCG - Mahaska Communication Group

What Grinnell College Has to Offer to New Residents: Explore Local Resources and Events

Posted on 08/15/2025 at 11:55 PM

Over their years working at Grinnell College, Sarah Smith and Donnette Ellis have seen a lot of new residents move into Grinnell. As connectors of the College and town community, they will both greet newcomers at the upcoming New Resident Welcome event, hosted by the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce, on September 25, 2025!

As part of their positions in the Community Partnerships, Planning, & Research office, Smith and Ellis work side by side to foster College and community connections all year round. As the Director of Community and Government Relations, Smith cultivates strong relationships with elected officials and policymakers to support institutional and regional goals and initiatives. She also helps coordinate programming at the new Renfrow Hall and the Katherine Howell Weingart ’61 Civic Innovation Pavilion. Ellis, the Community Relations and Grant Coordinator, is a friendly face at the new faculty orientation for Grinnell College and welcomes them into local volunteering programs or giving initiatives. She also facilitates Grinnell College’s mini-grants program, helping distribute funds to places such as the Grinnell School of Music, the Drake Community Library, and more, which new and long-standing residents alike can take advantage of. 

“I love when I meet new faculty and staff members and see them out and about in town and in the community,” shares Smith. Together, Smith and Ellis will gift pamphlets and handouts with all information about Grinnell College! You can also sign up with them for campus tours, as well as a look into the Conard Environmental Research Area. As a sponsor of the New Resident Welcome event on behalf of Grinnell College and their Community Partnerships Office, Smith and Ellis want to share some tips and tricks to new and long-standing residents alike:

  1. Most Grinnell College events are free and open to the public. Take a peek at Grinnell College’s community calendar, events.grinnell.edu, or peek at their Instagram’s Story highlight on Mondays to find public events — including sporting events, singing and music recitals, and educational lectures.
  2. To stay up to date on Grinnell College news, take a peek at their Newsroom site on the College website.
  3. If you have a library card at the Drake Library, use it at the Burling Library! No extra cost.
  4. Explore free places during open hours or tours, such as the Grinnell College Museum of Art, the Grant O. Gale Observatory, and the Conard Environmental Research Area.
  5. Purchase a membership to the Charles Benson Bear '39 Recreation and Athletic Center and use their facilities! They cost $125 per year, or receive a special discount if you are 60 years of age and older.
  6. The dining hall, the Spencer Grill, and the Global Cafe are open to the public. Anyone can purchase hot meals, drinks, and delicious side foods during open hours. Plus, individuals can order from Grinnell College’s catering services.
  7. The public Grinnell College Golf Course hosts annual events, such as their Halloween Party, Fourth of July celebration, and a Super Bowl watch party. Join in on the fun!
  8. Opt into as many newsletters as you can, suggests Ellis. Sign up for the Chamber of Commerce and Community Connections email newsletter.

“Like we tell our new students,” says Smith, “we want to invite our new residents to get out and do things — eventually you’ll find your people! Go to the Grinnell Farmers Market or eat at local restaurants. Say hi to our Grinnell College students as they move in while you continue to settle in!” Whether you are a long-standing resident or a brand new one, Grinnell College will make sure you fit right in!
 

Holiday Planning in August? Yes, Please!

Posted on 08/12/2025 at 4:41 PM

It is never too late to think about holidays in Grinnell! With summer about to end, our (creative) Chamber Ambassadors met this morning to discuss the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Jingle Bell Holiday and general “holidays in Grinnell” festivities!

Jingle Bell Holiday is a grand Grinnell event, with hundreds of people packed in a chilly downtown with hot chocolate and treats in hand. Though the event is always a major hit, our Ambassadors pitched ideas to take the event to the next level, including creating more holiday photo opportunities throughout town and developing a mini holiday scavenger hunt. 

In the weeks leading up to the holiday season, the Chamber Ambassadors brainstormed ways to keep the holiday feel into town after Jingle Bell Holiday, starting with the local businesses' annual extended hours. One key takeaway? Incorporating different aspects that fit multiple demographics: one for kids, one for adults, and a general free event for all to enjoy — whether a pub or food crawl, or a retail business scavenger hunt with an “Amazing Chase” theme. 

Plus, the Ambassadors considered ways that businesses and organizations could collaborate and benefit through potential fundraising opportunities. For example, the Ambassadors pitched joint activities to complement the free sponsored holiday merchant movies at the Strand, or the festival of trees held at the Drake Community Library. Whether that means creating a gigantic winterland with a local open space or having little igloos scattered around Central Park, we are trying to gauge community interest and ideas!

What would you like to see? Roping in carolers from the Grinnell School of Music or Grinnell College? Or perhaps you would want to be involved with a downtown activity, such as a holiday decoration contest to help adorn local retail shops and businesses? 

Or would you like to see us extend some Jingle Bell Holiday activities into our extended hours days, like additional activities at some of our retail establishments?

Finally, the Chamber is preparing for a grand hand off of the beloved Central Park holiday decorations [tradition]. For eight years, the beautiful display has been led and organized by Jennifer and Kevin McAlexander and put into place by a team of volunteers, but now we are looking for their successors. If you are interested in the passing of the torch, or wish to contribute with a small role, email communications@getintogrinnell.com or message our social media platforms.

If you have more ideas about the holidays in Grinnell and potential activities, drop them in the comments below — we would love to read them and share with our business community! 
 

Chamber Ambassador (Brainstormers), from left to right:

  • Nikki Armstead — Grinnell Chamber
  • Desi Strayer — German Plumbing & Heating
  • Rachael Kinnick — Grinnell Chamber
  • Donna Fischer — UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center Foundation
  • Fran Conn
  • Jennifer McAlexander — JM Consulting & Hawkeye Lock & Security
  • Yesenia Mozo — Grinnell Chamber (not pictured)
  • Blake Pearson — Converge Chiropractic (not pictured)
  • Trent Arment — MCG - Mahaska Communication Group (not pictured)
  • Ashley Sorensen — Volunteer Iowa (not pictured)

Find A Realtor Who is All In: Who Else But All in Real Estate Inc?

Posted on 08/05/2025 at 3:50 PM

Dedee and David Lehman don’t do things halfway. When they opened their real estate agency about a year and a half ago, they wanted their business name to be representative of how they approach their work — all in. Now, they are celebrating their agency, All in Real Estate Inc., as one of the newest members of the Chamber of Commerce!

Dedee had always wanted to be a real estate agent, but money had stopped her years ago. “I just couldn’t give up a paycheck and take a leap of faith in a field where my income is not guaranteed,” she recalls. But after twenty-five years of corporate life, Dedee and David turned to real estate as they helped their own children find rental properties. As the whole family searched together, Dedee and David were inspired to buy small homes, creating a little portfolio of rental properties that would grow into something more.

By this time, David had already retired for the second time, and so when Dedee asked him what he wanted to do post-retirement, he exclaimed, “I’m retired! I can do anything I want.” As Dedee shared the story with the Chamber Ambassadors during their ribbon cutting, she laughed, saying, “He is the only retired person I know who thought, ‘Let me run my own business!’”

Three months later, their real estate agency was born. Dedee and David currently work for multiple owners, managing over 60 rental units. They help with a wide range of tasks — from ensuring payment of utility and insurance bills, moving tenants in and out, and assisting with maintenance. On the backend, David focuses more on recording accounts receivable and payable. And in line with her true passion, Dedee focuses on showing beautiful homes and rental properties. 

Dedee has had her license for 7 years, and was elated when David volunteered to get his license, too. As a true partnership, the Lehmans rotate between being in the office, showing houses, preparing marketing materials, or completing miscellaneous errands for their clients.

“We bail each other out,” says Dedee. “It’s great!” Though they are both licensed in Iowa, they love to sell and list properties that are local within the Poweshiek and Jasper county area. As connoisseurs of the local area and market, the Lehmans mainly sell residential homes and local commercial properties on the side.

The Lehmans’ advice for both buyers and sellers? “Find the best fit for you. Personalities have to mesh, and at the same time, find someone who will put in the effort for you — to do the marketing, to do the open houses, and make sure you’re not leaving any money on the table.” Showing houses on the weekends or after 5 PM on the weekdays is not unfamiliar territory to the Lehmans. Their commitment is so impenetrable that they’ve shown houses for over four years before finding a perfect fit for their client.

“We have a background in the corporate world, so we approach our work very seriously, from our meetings, to documentation, to being transparent with our market analysis,” shares David. The Lehmans always perform market research and analysis to ensure their clients won’t have their house stale in the market, or lose money selling for too low a price. “We show our clients about 3 to 6 houses comparable to theirs in a similar location, and show those numbers,” adds Dedee. 

From school district employees to college students who cycle in and out of Grinnell, Dedee and David offer a cute extra touch for their clients moving in, supplying quick essentials 24 hours before move-in, like frying pans and blankets if needed.

If you’re looking for your next dream home, or are ready to rent or part with yours, contact the Lehmans at homes@allinrealestateinc.com or call them at 641-659-6500. They are also keeping an extra office in their building warm, in case a new or experienced agent wishes to join their team! To stay up to date with All in Real Estate Inc’s rental properties or listings, visit their website, allinrealestateinc.com, or visit their Facebook page.

Chamber Ambassadors from left to right:

  • Nikki Armstead — Grinnell Chamber
  • Hannah O’Polka — Cleanfoodfix Wellness Studio
  • Bri Guant — Community 1st Credit Union
  • Kody Bigelow — WalMart Grinnell
  • Donnette Ellis — Grinnell College
  • Joni Schmidt — The Mayflower Community
  • Jennifer McAlexander — JM Consulting & Hawkeye Lock & Security
  • Jess Dawson — RE/MAX Partners Realty
  • Blake Pearson — Converge Chiropractic
  • David Lehman — All in Real Estate Inc.
  • Donna Fischer — UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Regional Medical Center Foundation
  • Dedee Lehman — All In Real Estate Inc
  • Monica St. Angelo — Grinnell Area Arts Council
  • Fran Conn
  • Dan McCue — McCue & Associates and American Family Insurance
  • Lisa Cirks — Cirks Financial Services
  • Trent Arment — MCG - Mahaska Communication Group
  • Jack Matthews — Our Grinnell
     
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