Volume 27 I December 2014 I Number 12

In this issue...Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Member Spotlight . . . .3

Renewing Members . . .4

Chamber Calendar . . . .5

New Members . . . . . . . .6

Biz Bits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Event Wrap Up . . . . . . .12

ACCREDITATIONUNITED STATES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CHAMBERNewsCHAMBERNewsLife with a river viewLife with a river view

CHAMBER STAFF

Nathan SondgerothPresident

Joni KrogmanDirector, Chamber Operations

Karen FriisAdministrative Services Coordinator

Jennifer RogersBusiness Manager

Carrie DonaireDirector, Convention & Visitors Bureau

A Message from the President...

December 2014CHAMBERNews www.clintonia.com2

By Nathan Sondgeroth, Chamber President

During November 2014, I was privileged to be part of two ribbon cuttingswhich reminded me of the idea of stewardship. We are all responsible forClinton and the surrounding area for a finite time and it is up to us tomake the best of the time we have.

The two ribbon cuttings I am referring to are:1) 100TH Anniversary celebration of the Lyons Fire Station; and2) The opening of the new Clinton Middle School (CMS).

Both of these events reinforced that Clinton and the surrounding areahave been here long before my time here and will be here long after.

The Middle School opening reminded me of a recent tour I had of the Roosevelt building with a devel-oper looking to convert it to housing in the Clinton downtown. In the basement of Roosevelt, was a longforgotten rendering of what was titled “Clinton's New Middle School.” When you looked closer at therendering, the picture and plans drawn was actually the building which entered service as Lyons MiddleSchool in north Clinton.

During the Middle School opening, standing in that beautiful building, I remembered that rendering andreflected on the fact that I will always think of Clinton Middle School (CMS) as “the new middle school.”Even after generations of students pass through, that will be a touchstone for me and the 2,000+ peoplewho were there to celebrate the grand opening.

Part of being the stewards of this community is to remember the past to help focus where we should begoing in the future. 2015 has so many important and historic anniversaries to celebrate. Some of theseanniversaries we know about, but other we don't. As a Chamber, one of the things we do is record thecollective memories of our members and our community. If your group or organization is celebrating amilestone anniversary in 2015, please let me know at nsondgeroth@clintonia.com so I can include it in alist as part of a future newsletter article.

As always, if you would like to meet in person, I would be happyto come to your place of business to introduce myself. You caneither email me at nsondgeroth@clintonia.com or call my col-league, Karen Friis, at 563-242-5702 to set up a time.

Until next time, I'm at your service,

Nathan

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Member SpotlightStaff Management | SMX

Founded in 1988, Staff Management | SMX is a recognized leader ofcomprehensive workforce solutions that deliver best talent, drive compliance, yield tangible savings and build sustainable value. Ourexpertise in supporting clients within the manufacturing, distributionand logistics industries, combined with our proven centralized servicemodel, award-winning Workforce and Vendor Management System(WVMS), and precision recruitment processes are key differentiatorswithin the industry. Staff Management | SMX also received Inavero's2014 Best of Staffing Award for yielding a client satisfaction rate ninetimes greater than the industry average.

As the pioneer of Outsourced Workforce Management (OWM), StaffManagement | SMX is the expert in exclusive recruitment and vendoron premise manage-ment of an industrialfacility's contingentworkforce. Our OWMservice modelimproves productivity while lowering risk and cost for our clients. Asone of the world's top-rated Managed Service Providers (MSP), StaffManagement | SMX also provides third-party vendor management serv-ices to improve process efficiencies, compliance and quality whilereducing spend on staffing initiatives.

As part of TrueBlue Outsourcing Solutions, Staff Management | SMX hasthe ability to provide best-in-class solutions for your individual businessneeds. Together with TrueBlue, the largest industrial staffing provider inthe US, we can offer our clients a broader range of industry leadingservices. TrueBlue is recognized as one of Forbes' 100 Most TrustworthyCompanies for their solid corporate governance and accounting transparency.

In our area Staff Management | SMX currently operates as an on-sitedivision for Metform, a Maclean-Fogg Company in Savanna. To applyvisit apply.smjobs.com or call us at (815) 273-1399.

New Member SpotlightShaklee - Anne and R.G. Boone

In 1977 we were introduced to Shaklee bya friend who believed we would beimpressed by a biodegradable cleaningproduct called Basic-H. We had viewed adocumentary by Jacque Cousteau titled “The Death of Lake Erie” whichshowed the pollution in just one of America's Great Lakes. We hadassumed any pollution in the Great Lakes must be the result of manu-

facturing and big industry. It wasshocking to discover that the majori-ty of pollution was coming fromhousehold cleaners poured down thedrains of homes just like ours!

So we listened to our friend anddecided to switch brands to Shaklee'sall-natural, biodegradable cleanerswith a money-back guarantee. Wewere skeptical, but soon discovered

they worked effectively and we $aved on our budget! With two smallchildren in our home, we valued even more the concept of SAFE clean-ing products! “Changing brands changed our lives!” Our experience ofThe Shaklee Effect has been: the products work!Shaklee Corporation was founded by Dr. Shaklee in 1956. He taughtthat we should do all we can to be In Harmony with Nature and TheGolden Rule. Today, Shaklee is the #1 Natural Nutrition Company andone of America's most trusted brands. Under the leadership of RogerBarnett, Owner & CEO, we hold the premise that our mission is to offer a“healthier life for everyone and a better life for anyone”.

We are honored to represent Shaklee! Shaklee uses science to unlockthe secrets of nature: not based on fads or hype! More than 100,000ingredient quality tests annually! More than 121Olympic Medals earned by athletes fueled byShaklee! More than 100 scientific papers, 90 ofwhich are in Peer Reviewed publications! All prod-ucts are 100% money-back guaranteed! NASAAstronaut Mark Kelly took Shaklee “Vitalizer” withhim on the final mission of the Space ShuttleEndeavour.

Shaklee products are life-changing. The earningopportunity is exceptional. What you earn depends on what youdecide. The freedom to decide how, where and when -- it's great tohave that much control, but with Shaklee being our own boss is a truereality!

For more information please contact Anne and R.G. Boone atannerg@bestlifestyle4u.com and check out the website athttp://bestlifestyle.myshaklee.com/us/en/

December 2014CHAMBERNews www.clintonia.com4

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

The Chamber would like to thank the following members for renewing their memberships during the month of November 2014.

50+ yearsAlbert's Jewelers 55

30+ yearsClinton Printing Co. 35Clinton Floral Shop 32Electric Service of Clinton 32

20+ yearsKenneth P. Carlson, DDS 29Air Control, Inc. 27Lockhart & Law Insurance Agency 25Quad City times 25Burke Cleaners 21Miller Electric Supply 20

10+ yearsMidwest Vision Clinic 15Group Services 14Captain Clean 12Unity Christian School 11Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center 10Kaplan University 10

1+ yearsGifts Galore 8Sweet Woodruff 6Make-a-Wish Foundation of Iowa 6Timber Lake Playhouse 6Triple Play 6Clinton Occupational Health &

Midwest Therapy Centers 5déjà vu Furniture and Accessories 5Planet Auto 4Wolfe Law Office 4Johnson Oil Company 3Mississippi River Distilling Company 3Rally Appraisal 3Richard J. Phelan - Management Consultant 3Clinton Back and Neck Family Wellness 1Fluid Cue Solutions 1I WIRELESS 1

Purpose: To recognize peoplewho have provided excellent

customer service by awardingthem the Clapper Award for

Excellence in Customer Service.

Do you know of an employee at an area business who goes above and

beyond in the area of customer service?Nominate that person for the Clapper

Award by contacting the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce at

(563) 242-5702 or chamber@clintonia.com.

You can also pick up a nomination card at the Chamber.

A couple things to remember when making a nomination:

• Nominations should be for employees, not thebusiness manager or owner.• Nominations can not be from the employee’ssupervisor or co-worker.• They can be nominated more than once butcan only receive an award one time.

If you have any questions, please give us a call.

Your Clapper Committee is allChamber member volunteers

Tara Bellich – Clinton National BankJim Clark – Couple DeVille ‘The Cadillac of Rock & Roll’

Becky Edwards – Citizens First BankLaura Howard – Gateway State Bank

Marcia Larson – Clinton Community CollegeBarb Olsen – Citizens First Bank

Marsha Smith – RetiredAndy Sokolovich – Bent Business Marketing

Kathy Ottens – NestlePurina PetCare Co.Wayne Larkey – Miss Clinton County Scholarship Program

Clapper Award

T hank you!

Ribbon Cuttings

19th Avenue North Extension to Main AvenueCelebrating with a groundbreaking and

collaboration of between the City of Clinton,the Clinton Business Park DevelopmentCorporation (CBPDC), the State of Iowa

through the Iowa Department ofTransportation RISE Program, and

the Clinton County Development Association (CCDA).

Lyons Fire Station (Picture not available) – Congratulations on 100 years. Thank you!

Clinton School District Middle School (Picture not available) – Celebrating the grandopening of the new middle school. Congratulations!

December 2014CHAMBERNews www.clintonia.com

December Chamber Calendar 2014 - 2015Executive CommitteeDr. Karen VickersClinton Community CollegeChairperson

Nate KreinbrinkNelsonCorp Wealth Management1st Vice Chair

Tom MoserMedical Associates2nd Vice Chair

Jennifer BoysenClinton National BankTreasurer

Sara MisiewiczClinton National BankCVB Board Chair

Dr. Mark SchroederIowa State University ExtensionPast Chairperson

Board of DirectorsShane BuerMercy Medical Center

Dean BrainerdADM Corn Processing

Diane ChristensenThe Insurance Group

Gerry FreudenbergIowa-American Water Co.

Lori FreudenbergSisters of St. Francis

Eric HeldingNestle Purina PetCare Co.

Daniel HousengaLyondellBasell

Charlie MinnickAshford University

Rich PhelanNelsonCorp Wealth Management

Mike RastrelliRastrelli's Restaurant

Kevin SteinesHonkamp & Krueger & Co., P.C.

Breton WilliamsFirst Wealth Financial Group

Meetings are subject to change. Watch your mail for details or check with Karen at (563) 242-5702 before attendingany regularly scheduled Chamber event. Reservations are required for most noon meetings held at the Chamber office.

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1 Nestle Purina, 8:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.

2 Women in Business Committee, 8:00 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.LEAD, 11:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.Leadership Committee, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.

4 ABC's of Essential Oils, 6:00 p.m., Chamber of Commerce

5 Medical Associates, 8:00 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.CVB Technology Committee, 9:00 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.

8 Miss Clinton County Board, 6:00 p.m., Chamber of Commerce.

9 Dale Carnegie, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.CVB Wayfinding Committee, 10:00 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.LEAD Graduation, 11:30 a.m., Location TBD.

10 Local & Government Affairs Committee, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.

11 Board of Directors, 7:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.Business Park Corporation, 10:00 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.Events Committee, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of CommerceRibbon Cutting, 5:00 p.m., Clinton Municipal Airport.

12 Ambassadors, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.

16 Tri-City Building & Construction Trades Council, 9:30 a.m., Chamber of Commerce.Executive Committee, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.Young Living Essential Oils, 6:00 p.m., Chamber of Commerce.

17 Clinton County Development Association, 7:30 a.m., Wild Rose Casino.CRDC Board of Directors, 11:30 a.m., Rastrelli's Avanti Room.Gateway Area Foundation, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.Des Moines Day Planning Meeting, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.

18 CVB Board, 12:00 Noon, George Curtis Mansion.

19 Budget & Finance Committee, 12:00 Noon, Chamber of Commerce.

24 Christmas Eve, Chamber office closes at Noon.

25 Christmas Day, Chamber office CLOSED.

30 Essentials4u, 6:00 p.m., Chamber of Commerce.

CHAMBERNews is published by theClinton Area Chamber of Commerce, anot-for-profit corporation, serving thebusiness communities of Clinton and

Camanche, Iowa and Fulton, Illinois.

Phone: 563-242-5702Fax: 563-242-5803

E-Mail:chamber@clintonia.com

Web Address:www.clintonia.com

6 December 2014CHAMBERNews www.clintonia.com

New MembersW elcomeW elcomeChamber Website

Information

Did you know that yourmembership includes

the following:

Job PostingsHot Deals

News Releases

Call for more informationon how to put this on

our website.

Like us on facebook –look for Clinton Area

Chamber

American Business Woman's Association - Midwest Heartland Chapter

My name is Kristi Cannon, and I moved to Fulton in November 2013. In my quest to build a local and professional network, I saw an opportunity to bring anew local chapter into the immediate area for the American Business Woman's Association (ABWA). The purpose of this group is to bring working womentogether to strengthen business relationships and to provide educational and professional development for personal and professional growth. We will beholding local monthly meetings in the Fulton and Clinton areas for our members. Our local chapter is called the Midwest Heartland Chapter and our goalis to have 35+ women join our local chapter within the next 6 months. We are excited to launch this new local chapter for the national ABWA organiza-tion. I work as a national sales director for InVentiv Health, supporting national Tylenol sales teams. I am confident that my association with this organiza-tion and local professional women will only enhance my own professional development and career growth. For more information about ABWA, pleasecontact me at kristicannon2009@yahoo.com or 404-694-6699. We also have a business page on Facebook and a Linkedin profile under ABWA MidwestHeartland Chapter.

Beckridge Hunting Preserve

Jim and Coralie Beck opened Beckridge Hunting Preserve, located just south of Sabula, Iowa, in 1990. They, along with their two young children at the time,purchase day old pheasant chicks and raise them to maturity for upland hunting on their 450 acres. Being a preserve, they are licensed through the state.Therefore, they are given an extended hunting season. Open from October 1st through March 31st. Morning, afternoon and all day hunts are available.Guides with dogs can be furnished - or bring your own dog. The preserve has grown throughout the years and we are now up to 24,000 pheasants raisedannually. Reservations are required to hunt Bechridge, but it is not a membership club. You are welcome to come as you can and enjoy the great outdoors!They can be reached at 563-687-2985, or check them out online at www.beckridge.com.

Buchanan

Buchanan is a contemporary clothing brand for the everyday woman. We feel that dressing great shouldn't be uncomfortable, time consuming or difficult.Buchanan is for all women who want to look good no matter where they go or what they do, whether that's the grocery store or the office. We believe inflattering, versatile, easy to wear pieces in the highest quality fabrics. Buchanan is based in Clinton, IA and is sold primarily online through our e-commercesite: www.lesliebuchanan.com Leslie Friedman (nee Buchanan) is the designer and creative force behind Buchanan. She attended the University of Georgiaand Parsons School of Design and has worked in almost every facet of the fashion industry.

Commit to be Fit, Lifestyle Fitness

Darcie Sweeney is a certified personal trainer and registered nurse that will provide health education and exercise programs to clients in the privacy oftheir home. Darcie specializes in education & exercise programs for chronic disease management and/or prevention, muscle building & toning, balance &stability, diet/nutrition, weight loss and general health & wellness. Call her at 563-212-3991 or email sweeneyd_3@hotmail.com.

Community Health Care, Inc.

Beginning in summer 2015, Community Health Care, Inc. will provide Clinton and the surrounding communities with excellence in patient-centered med-ical, dental and behavioral health care that is compassionate, affordable and accessible.

From the common cold to chronic disease management, we care for patients with Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance and those without insurance.Patients with and without insurance can use our Sliding Fee Program. This program is based on a patient's household income and family size, and youmay be able to see a medical provider for as little as $20 and visit a dentist for as little as $40.

CHC is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and the community through high-quality accessible health care. For moreinformation, contact Amy Jones at amjones@chcqca.org or 563-336-3002.

Ribbon Cuttings

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Staff Management | SMX Celebrating their new company name (formerly

Spartan Staffing). Great job!

Clinton Back and Neck Family Wellness, PCCelebrating their one year anniversary. Congratulations!

Ashford UniversityCelebrating recent improvements to Ashford’s

campus facilities. Looks great!

Rastrelli’sCelebrating with a ribbon cutting for their 75 years in business. Way to go!

DHCU Community Credit Unionelebrating with a groundbreaking for the constructionof their second branch location. Looking forward to it’s

opening!

December 2014CHAMBERNews www.clintonia.com8

Watch the Januarynewsletter for a

complete listing ofour 2015 events

Legislative PreviewBreakfast

Friday, January 9th7:00 a.m.

Ashford University

Clinton County Day in Des Moines

Thursday, February 5th

Legislative CoffeeSaturday, February 15th

9:00 a.m.Chamber of Commerce

Legislative CoffeeSaturday, March 15th

9:00 a.m.Chamber of Commerce

Legislative CoffeeSaturday, April 12th

9:00 a.m.Chamber of Commerce

Legislative Wrap-UpSaturday, May 10th

9:00 a.m.Chamber of Commerce

Lori Freudenberg

Lori is the Community OutreachDirector of the Franciscan PeaceCenter, a center developed 10years ago by the Sisters of St.Francis in Clinton, Iowa, to workon social justice issues. Shechairs the Clinton FranciscanAnti-Trafficking committee, theMicrocredit Committee and par-ticipates with the Share OurSandwiches project.

Prior to coming to the FPC, Lori was the Executive Director of theYWCA for 10 _ years. She graduated from Marycrest College with aBA in merchandising/marketing/public relations in 1983 and fromClinton High School in 1979.

Her community activities include Gateway State Bank Board ofDirectors, Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors,Clinton Herald Editorial Board and member of Clinton Rotary.She is married to Gerry, Superintendent at Iowa American Water Co.,and is the mother of Anne, 26, who lives in Denver, Colorado andZach, 23, who lives in Chicago, IL.

Meet Our Board Members...

Richard J (Rich) Phelan

Rich has been a business and communityleader in Clinton for over 30 years. Rich hasan undergraduate degree in communica-tions from St. Joseph's College and a MBAfrom St. Ambrose University.

Rich is retired from LyondellBasell after 34years serving in various managementcapacities. Rich recently joined NelsonCorpWealth Management as BusinessDevelopment Officer.

Rich has a great deal of experience in general management of large andsmall companies, financial management and as an entrepreneur.

Rich is married to Carolyn and has two grown daughters, Bridget Owen andMolly Nelson and three grandchildren.

Some of Rich's community involvement includes: Chair of the ClintonRegional Development Corporation, Director of the Iowa Association ofBusiness and Industry; Chair of the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce;Campaign Chair for the United Way; Board of Directors of Firstar Bank;President of the Clinton Baseball Club; Director of the Mt. St. Clare CollegeBoard of Trustees.

Ribbon CuttingsWQAD News 8

Celebrating recently joining the Chamber.Great job!

Hy-VeeCelebrating a grand re-opening for thecompletion of their remodeling project.It’s great!

Rejuvenation Station Day SpaCelebrating becoming Chamber members.Thank you!

Biz Bits

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Do you have a “Biz Bit” to share? Submit your 100-150 word article to Karen Friis at chamber@clintonia.com by the 10th of the month for possible inclusion in the following month’s newsletter. We reserve the right to edit for space.

2014 Miller Appreciation DinnerThe annual appreciation dinner for the Volunteer Millers who, during the past year,gave their time and talents to the maintenance and operation of “de Immigrant,”Fulton's authentic Dutch windmill, was held on Monday, October 13. The FultonMeat Market catered the dinner in the outreach center of the Presbyterian Churchof Fulton. Chief Miller Ron Koehn served as master of ceremonies and welcomedthe millers and their guests to the event.

Following the dinner, Nancy Kolk read the 2014 review of miller activities that shecompiled. She was followed by Joyce Daehler, the compiler of visitor statistics,who reviewed the number of visitors to the mill thus far in 2014 as well as thestates of the United States and the foreign countries represented by those visitors.Assistant Miller (or “Miller Light”) Certificates were presented to Larry Russell andPam Van Zuiden. Several tongue-in-cheek awards were presented to ArnieHuizenga, Phil Hook, and Ed Kolk in honor of their special services. And specialcontributions by Heidi Kolk, Judy Holesinger, and Rick Daehler were recognized.Appreciation gifts of windmill coozies and Krumpets gift certificates were present-ed to the millers present and their special guests. The evening concluded withChief Miller Ron Koehn expressing his personal gratitude to the officers and rank-and-file volunteer millers for all the time and effort they have donated to thewindmill during the past year: conducting tours, milling grains, bagging flour,painting and making repairs, cleaning the mill, etc.

Jennifer Garner among inductees to Hall ofFame at Timber Lake Playhouse's Annual Dinner;Company kicks off a season to Dream BiggerTimber Lake Playhouse hosted its annual donor appreciation dinner on Saturday,November 8th at the Plumtree Lodge at Lake Carroll. Since 2008, the event hasincluded the induction of notable members of the TLP family into the company'sHall of Fame. This year's honorees included film and television actress, JenniferGarner, three-time board member and former president, Diane Olds, original com-pany member and former managing & artistic director, Gary Vitale, and longtimebenefactors, Drs. Norman and Carmelita Teeter.

Robin Wilhems Saar, TLP board president, hosted the evening, which included asurprise video message from Ms. Garner for the TLP sponsors. Speaking of thefamily dynamic, Mrs. Olds, who served as board president in 2006 and 2007, spokefirst, talking about the positive influence Timber Lake had on her children andthousands more in the Northwest Illinois region.

Jennifer Garner began her career at TLP while still a student at Denison Universityin Ohio, performing in shows like Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?and Fiddler on the Roof. Her recorded video message was a surprise for those inattendance.

Beaudry added,“All of our inductees spoke of the importance of TLP in one way oranother-to the region, to families, to artists. And both Jennifer and Gary said thatour survival as a professional theatre company for 54 years is something of a mira-cle in itself. But, yes, we're still here!”

The evening also included a look back at last summer's shows, financial reportsfrom the board of directors and a preview of 2015's “big” season. In addition tosome special events, the 54th Season at Timber Lake Playhouse includes PeterPan, Hairspray, Big Fish, Greater Tuna, Big River and The Big Meal, as well asPinocchio and James and The Giant Peach for kids.

TLP is currently selling “I Made Peter Fly” shirts through indiegogo.com to fund theflying effects in Peter Pan. 2015 subscriptions, gift certificates and sponsorshipsare available. More information can be found at www.timberlakeplayhouse.org orby calling the office at 815-244-2035.

Area schools, Children's Miracle Network big winners of the “Switch to Ascentra”With school budgets feeling the pinch throughout our region, Ascentra CreditUnion decided to help alleviate some of the financial burdens our schools systemsare experiencing. From January through June, all qualifying new members thatjoined Ascentra were given the option to have the credit union donate $25 toeither the school of their choice or the Children's Miracle Network.

Ascentra has tallied up the donations and started to surprise the school districts,colleges, and private schools with their donation checks. A total of $14,775 will begiven out to schools. An additional $10,400 will be donated to the Children'sMiracle Network University of Iowa Children's Hospital.

“This was a great way to let our new member owners know that they have a sayin how Ascentra gives back to the community,” President & CEO Dale Owen said.“Ascentra has been committed to education, literacy initiatives and giving back inunique and meaningful ways.”

Recently Ascentra presented Clinton Community School District with $1,375 andthe Bettendorf Community School District with $1,525. Other presentations arescheduled to take place at area school districts soon.

Evan Trenkamp Joins Citizens First BankCitizens First Bank announces that Evan Trenkamp has recently joined its staff spe-cializing in Ag and Commercial lending.

Evan was formerly employed with Clinton National Bank and has 4 years of realestate, consumer, agriculture and commercial lending experience. Evan graduatedfrom University of Wisconsin Platteville with a degree in Agriculture Business andis currently attending Upper Iowa University for a degree in Accounting. He hasalso completed certification requirements for the Iowa Banker's Association'sConsumer and Ag Credit Schools.

“We are excited for Evan to further his banking career at Citizens First Bank andhappy he has chosen to be a member of the Citizens First Bank team,” states KeithHook, Sr. Vice President Lending.

Evan, his wife Leslie, and their 2 year old daughter live in Clinton. Evan enjoys timewith his family, golf, and farming.

Deadline for 2015 Flikkema Grant Inquiries isJanuary 9As part of their process of determining grants, the trustees of the D.S. FlikkemaFoundation review information received from groups interested in being consid-ered for such grants. The grant cycle for 2015 D.S. Flikkema grants is fromNovember 17, 2014, to January 9, 2015.

Any charitable organization serving Fulton can submit an application onlinethrough the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend (CFGRB) website. Thisyear the D.S. Flikkema Foundation, as an affiliate foundation of Fulton Assocationfor Community Enrichment (FACE) and CFGRB, will be using an online grant appli-cation system. This allows applicants to complete, save, and submit applications inone place and have ongoing access to them. Organizations will first need to createan organizational profile and login information on the system. Organizations whocreated login information for a 2014 FACE grant may use that same login informa-tion for the D.S. Flikkema Foundation grants. To create a login and apply for agrant, go to fultonface.org and then select “Get a Grant.” When ready to apply,scroll through the list of grant opportunities and select “D.S. Flikkema FoundationGrants” to bring up the correct grant application.

The main focus of grants for the D.S. Flikkema Foundation are science, education,history, libraries, cultures, theology, classical music, and literature. Priority will begiven to organizations and schools who focus on these particular interests. Pleasenote that the D.S. Flikkema Foundation does not fund salaries, building mainte-nance, or projects that are not already established. Organizations and schoolsrequesting more than one grant should prioritize their needs. When submitting arequest, information on the organization's budget helps the trustees. Please indi-cate the total expected cost and what other sources of funding, if any, may applytoward the requested project or need.

All correspondence about the D.S. Flikkema Foundation grants should be directedto the FACE board. The FACE board will pass along all questions and inquiries tothe D.S. Flikkema Foundation trustees. No public communication should go direct-ly to the trustees. The majority of D.S. Flikkema Foundation grants will be issued bythe end of March 2014. For more information, contact Heidi Kolk at 815-589-3160or email inquiries to FACEaCommunityFoundation@gmail.com. (FACE is an affiliateof the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend.)

New WCC Adult Research AreaFulton's Windmill Cultural Center continues its evolution as a learning center with

a new adult research area designated in the educational wing of the facility. WCCreceived a D.S. Flikkema grant to develop this mill research section. The space willhouse material from The International Molinological Society (TIMS), the Society forthe Preservation of Old Mills (SPOOM), slides and books from Henk Hielema whoconstructed the mills of the permanent exhibit, and mill enthusiasts with variousbooks on mills.

A bookcase and cabinet to match the other shelving was constructed andinstalled by Riverside Custom Woodworking of Fulton. The new piece adjoins acorner section that houses cultural and geographic information on the tenEuropean countries of the 23 model windmills. Signage leads researchers to thedesignated area. The previously installed shelving is primarily set aside for use bychildren.

D.S. Flikkema was a Fultonian who spent most of his working years in research atArgonne National Laboratories. His endowment allows annual grants to be givenwhich promote his values. The Windmill Area Steering Committee members over-see the windmill area and applied for this grant.

Dutch Millwright Visits Fulton, IllinoisGerard ("G") Kleijn, a millwright from Verbij Hoogmade BV in the Netherlands,spent three days in Fulton, Illinois, at the end of October. He thoroughly investi-gated weaknesses in Fulton's authentic Dutch windmill, repaired problems, andoutlined future maintenance schedules. Several of Fulton's Volunteer Millersworked with him. He had previously worked at the Fulton windmill in 2008 andhas been with Lucas Verbij's architecture and restoration company for 15 years.The company also does historic building maintenance in the Netherlands andthroughout the world.

Prior to his October assignment in Fulton, "G" had worked three days at theFabyan windmill in Geneva, Illinois. After his Fulton experience, he flew toEscondido, California, for similar windmill diagnosis and repair. He has also workedextensively on windmills in San Francisco, California, Little Chute, Wisconsin, Pella,Iowa, Holland, Michigan, and Sakura, Japan.

Fulton's Windmill Steering Committee members decide what annual maintenancemust be done on the mill. In 2014, the mill was painted and checked for neededrepairs. The Windmill Area is run by volunteers, and donations are always appreci-ated. For more information about Fulton's Windmill Area, contact Nancy Kolk at815-589-2691.

2014 Officers for the CorporationSteve Howes (Howes & Jefferies), CHAIRRon Gutierrez (Clinton Herald), VICE CHAIRJohn Eisenman (Abstract & Title Guaranty Co.), VICE CHAIRTom Fullerton (Retired), VICE CHAIRBruce Christensen (U.S. Bank), OFFICERSteve Shupp (Alliant Energy), OFFICERBob Simpson (Big River Packaging), SECRETARYBrig Tubbs (Gateway State Bank), TREASURERRich Phelan (Management Consultant), PAST CHAIR

2014 Board of Directors:Curt Allen (Clinton County Farm Bureau)Jeff Beckwith (Beckwith Commercial Roofing)Christopher Cain (LyondellBasell)Terry Callahan (Agri-King)George Chamberlain (Direct Packaging)Pete Clausen (Clausen Companies)Mary Connell (Air Control)Tom Determann (Retired)Lou Egging (Egging Company)Gerry Freudenberg (Iowa-American Water Co.)Rick Gustafson (Leslie Electric)Bill Hare (Clysar)Eric Helding (Nestle-Purina)Thomas Hesselmann (Retired)Bob Holesinger (Quality Concrete)Charlie Minnick (Ashford University)Casey Moore (Union Pacific Railroad)Tom Moser (Medical Associates)Eric Rant (Rock-Tenn)Thomas Soenksen (Citizens First Bank)Steven Thacker (Clinton National Bank)Jon Thoms (Honkamp Krueger & Co., P.C.)Ryan Veenstra (Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory)Dr. Karen Vickers (Clinton Community College)Sean Williams (Mercy Medical Center)Jim Woll (ADM Corn Processing)City of ClintonCity of CamancheCity of FultonCity of Low MoorClinton CountyClinton Community SchoolsDavid Rose (Iowa DOT Commissioner)

Ex-Officio'sCity of Low MoorCamanche Community SchoolsIowa State University ExtensionClinton Area Chamber of Commerce

December 2014CHAMBERNews www.clintonia.com10

Fight vs. Failure

During the past several weeks, I've been inspired by the grassroots effort to save the ClintonTarget store. Tracking the issue on Facebook and other social media venues, I've observed thatthe vast majority of posts are supportive of the effort and committed to pursue every oppor-tunity to reverse the corporate decision to close the store.

Of course, sprinkled throughout the positive and supportive comments are comments whichfocus on the negative. To paraphrase - “Our region is in a continuous state of decline. There'sno point in trying to save the store; it's a waste of time. Why should we help save Target?Nobody did anything for (insert business name here) when it closed.”

Such negativism is a significant factor in promoting the continued decline of an area. Whenbeginning from this point of view, the battle for the future is already lost.

Will a change.org petition affect the corporate decision to close the local Target store? Howabout appeals from the Mayor or the Chamber of Commerce or letters of support from neigh-boring municipalities? Or will a “shop-in” to demonstrate the market's support for the local

store provide sufficient impact to change the mind of corporate leadership? It's difficult to say whether any of these efforts will beeffective, but one thing is certain: if we don't try, we've already failed.

Renowned author and philosopher Elbert Hubbard said,“There is no failure except in no longer trying. There is no defeat exceptfrom within, no really insurmountable barrier save our own inherent weakness of purpose.”

The Clinton Regional Development Corporation strongly supports the efforts of Mayor Vulich, the Clinton Area Chamber ofCommerce, and local residents to retain the Clinton Target store. Although the CRDC's focus is industrial development, we knowthat all companies evaluating a potential location consider many factors, including quality of life. In addition to housing, recreationoptions, schools, and other quality of life factors, shopping options and commercial density are important factors. Consequently,critical mass in the commercial sector is essential to success in expanding other economic sectors such as industrial, which makesretaining and expanding our commercial sector essential.

Certainly, we face challenges. But as we enter the Thanksgiving season, it's important to pause and recognize those things in ourlives for which we are particularly thankful. Good family, friends, health, and other aspects of our personal lives are especially goodreasons to give thanks. But so are community assets and opportunities. Here's part of my list:

- Great hiking/biking trails- The beautiful area in which we live- Recreational opportunities offered by the river and area parks- The year-over-year increase in our county average wage- Great co-workers and partner organizations- Continued strong interest in the Clinton Region by prospective companies- An engaged and talented CRDC Board of Directors- Strong business assets throughout the Clinton Region- A lower unemployment rate- And much more

In addition to the list above is my appreciation for the passionate and persistent grassroots leadership that has developed inresponse to the announcement of Target's closing. So many folks have stepped forward to exercise leadership - from creating apetition to promoting the effort on social media to organizing events to demonstrate the Region's desire to retain the Target store.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said,“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Withineach of us lies the choice to either fight for a future that we help craft or resign ourselves to a future which only happens to us. Tothese leaders and our partners at the City of Clinton and the Chamber of Commerce, the CRDC says “keep fighting!” And weencourage others in the Clinton Region to join the effort. Visit and post on the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/save-clintoniowatarget), use the hashtag #keeptargetclintonia, and join the effort! Together, we can impact our future.

News From the CRDC

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Carrie Donaire, CVB Director

Holiday Train to Visit December 5!

The Clinton Convention & Visitors Bureau is proud to have a role in hosting the CanadianPacific Holiday Train again in our community. On Friday, December 5, at 4:15pm, the train will roll intothe Lyons District with its festive lights and live entertainment -- all while promoting a cause that is close to our hearts as the holidaysapproach.

The train, which tours communities to raise awareness about hunger, has come to Clinton severaltimes before, and we hope will continue to visit us every other year. Clinton has been recognized forour great turnout and community support of this attraction, so the Holiday Train is quickly becoming

a winter tradition for all of us.The CP Holiday Train is North America's longest rolling food bank fundraiser. Since it started in 1999, the program has raised closeto $9.5 million and 3.3 million pounds of food. Over the three weeks of the program, musicians will play more than 150 concertsfrom a boxcar that's been turned into a travelling stage.

The concerts are free, but please bring a donation for the local food banks -- either a non-perishable food item or a cash donation.All contributions will stay in the greater Clinton community.

Spectators are encouraged to gather north of the Sawmill Museum at 3:30pm onFriday, December 5, 2014 to enjoy refreshments provided by Sweetheart Bakery andRastrelli's Restaurant. Join us for caroling while we await the arrival of the Holiday Train to Clinton. …and dress warmly!

A Little HistoryThe Freezin' for Food program originally brought the Holiday Train to Clinton about 8 years ago. Chris Streets, of Prairie Communications and Mac 94.7 FM and KCLN1390AM, had the idea for Freezin' for Food when he moved back to Clinton in 2000.

According to Streets,“I wanted to help my hometown and was told we had a need in our local pantries. I came up with the idea of living in a moving truck and not goinghome until the truck was full! I spent 6 days and 5 nights the first year and raised about 13,000 pounds of food donations. Ashford University has become our corporatepartner on the Food Drive for the past 5 years, and they bring THOUSANDS OF POUNDS of food themselves, every year. They have campus competitions and the studentshave walked door to door around town asking for donations! They are a perfectpartner for this program.” Ashford University is joined by over 20 other local busi-nesses who sponsor Streets' Freezin' for Food program, which is now in its 15th year.Freezin' for Food has given local pantries a combined 130-150 thousand pounds offood over the past 15 years. They have always worked with the Benevolent Societyand the Fulton Food Pantry. This year, the program will help new pantries as well, inorder to reach as many families as possible. Information Referral helps to coordi-nate with the different pantries.

There continues to be a need for canned goods, baby diapers, toiletries, peanut but-ter, formula, and cash donations, too. The pantries can take $1 to the Quad CityFood Bank and purchase 4-5 pounds of food. So a $5 donation becomes 25 poundsof food for our pantry! (The Food Bank sells as low as $.15 per pound) Make checkspayable to Freezing for Food and your donation will be shared among all of thelocal pantries. ALL FOOD AND CASH DONATIONS STAY LOCAL!!!

The EntertainmentCanadian country music artist, Kira Isabella, will perform in Clinton on the HolidayTrain stage. The Convention & Visitors Bureau looks forward to welcoming Kira, andthe train, to town!

News From the Convention & Visitors Bureau

P.O. Box 1024, Clinton, IA 52733-1024

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Building our community through membership.CHAMBERNews

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The Elf Before ChristmasMixpo is huge success!On November 20th we kicked off the holiday season atthe Chamber with a new event combining Jingle Bell Jamand our fall expo. We had an ugly sweater contest, sup-ported 15 local businesses, had the elf there live andenjoyed food provided by the Candlelight Inn. Thanks tothe Clinton Jaycee’s for serving refreshments and to theChamber Events Committee members.

Also thanks to our sponsors as we cannot do this eventwithout you: Title - Candlelight Inn; Gold - Colony Brands,Inc. and 1st Gateway Credit Union; Silver – LyondellBaselland Nestle Purina

Have a happy and safe holiday season from the ClintonArea Chamber of Commerce.