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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
Table of Contents Article . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page From the President’s Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Featured Member of the Month. . . . . . . . . . . 4 We’ve Moved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Professional Development Academy . . . . . . . 6 Unlocking Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 ImpactCR: A Siren Night at the Museum . . . . 8 Community Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Economic Alliance Governance Structure. 10-11 MyTern Now: Economic Development Update. 12 Public Policy Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Voice at the Capitol: Legislative Update. . . . 14 Energy Efficiency Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Celebration of Agriculture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 New Members & Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . 17
January 2012
Volume 81 No 6 (USPS558-200) Economic Alliance Report (ISSN 108-50775) is published monthly by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, 424 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. Subscription price of $35 per year is included in an annual membership. Periodicals postage paid at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Postmaster: Send changes to: Economic Alliance Report Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance 424 First Ave. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-1196 President & CEO: Dee Baird Editor: Mallory Mohwinkle Contact the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance at 319-398-5317 for reprint permission.
January PM Exchange Recap. . . . . . . . . . . . 18 PM Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Conquer the Corridor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
NATIONAL RECOGNITION Cedar Rapids is one of the top
12 Best Cities for High Paying Jobs, according to Kiplinger. We are ranked #7 because of our below-average unemployment and above-average income growth. (Source: Kiplinger, January 2012) Cedar Rapids is one of the
Best Places for Business & Careers, according to Forbes magazine. Our city is ranked #11 out of the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas in the U.S., based on costs, income growth, educational attainment and projected economic growth. (Source: Forbes.com, June 29, 2011) Cedar Rapids is one of the
Names You Need to Know in 2011, according to Forbes magazine. Our city is expected to see employment expand 14.2% over the next three years. This is the strongest forecast of any metro area in the country with a population over 100,000. (Source: Forbes.com, October 29, 2010)
FEBRUARY 2012
From the President’s Desk: In our process of transforming our organization in 2011, we heard from many customers and broader stakeholders about designing a governance structure that embraced a future that is distinct from our past. The feedback was overwhelming and literally changed the initial proposed governance structure design to the one you will read about today. In this issue of our Economic Alliance Report we highlight the new policy board and innovation council members. We are so pleased to have a strong mix of diversity among our members, from the type of organization, to gender, race, age, career positions and experience. The Economic Alliance governance structure is designed to ensure we are hearing from our customers and to be strategic about community development. We will do this by focusing on strong central business districts, providing proactive business support by concentrating attention on small and locally-owned businesses and finally a laser focus on economic development through growing and retaining interstate commerce. The final innovation council is our Large Investor Council which is comprised by the 25 largest contributors to the organization. The Policy Board has the overarching executive management and fiduciary responsibility as well as strategic implementation. However, the Policy Board’s strategic direction will be highly influenced by the Innovation Council’s contributions and direction. Finally, the structure also imposes shorter term limits, designed specifically to allow for our customers to serve in the organization’s structure. This structure truly represents a sophisticated and complex group of organizations and communities that encompass our customer base and is more inclusive than ever before. This will allow greater access to stakeholder’s needs, sharing of innovative ideas, and a vehicle to achieve our vision to become one of the top economic growth regions in the country! Sincerely,
Dee Baird CEO/President
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
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Featured Member of the Month Show some L VE to your team this Valentine’s season!
2nd Annual Horizons Meals On Wheels
Lunchbox
February 13 – 17, 2012 Lunch includes...
Kettle Chips Gourmet Sandwich Cookie Sliced Apples
More than just a lunch...a great meal for a great cause.
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e mor door! r o r se 3 to you a h c Pur deliver e’ll nd w
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spicy capicola ham, provolone, and flavorful asiago artichoke dressing
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California Veggie
sweet peppers, onions, broccoli, and kalamata olives tossed in a basil vinaigrette topped with havarti cheese
Questions? Email us: lunchbox@horizonsfamily.org or call us at 319-398-3943 Ext. 1007
FEBRUARY 2012
e v ’ e W
! d e v o M Well, some of us have moved. As an interim step before our ultimate move to new quarters, the Economic Alliance staff has been co-located into the former Chamber building at 424 First Avenue NE in downtown Cedar Rapids. In addition to the obvious changes for those who used to work in Downtown District offices, there has been quite a bit of internal shuffling of office space and telephone extensions to accommodate the new teams of the Economic Alliance. If you have go-to staff that you’ve often dealt with, you may want to double-check the phone extensions and e-mail addresses here to make sure you have the most up-to-date contact information. We expect our new structure will make us more customer-friendly than ever, but please bear with us during this transitional time!
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Allen Merta amerta@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1423
Joan Benda jbenda@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1416
Allison Antes aantes@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1422
Julie Stow jstow@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1409
Dee Baird dbaird@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1420
Kelly Slaughter kslaughter@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1411
DeMaris McKee dmckee@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1417
Lisa Guge lguge@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1401
Dennis Hotka 319/431.3461
Mallory Mohwinkle mmohwinkle@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1410
Dennis Jordan djordan@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1424 Doug Neumann dneumann@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1414 Jeff Rossate jrossate@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1425 Jeff Schamberger jschamberger@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1402 Jill Wilkins jwilkins@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1400
Nikki Durham ndurham@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1421 Pam Hinman phinman@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1415 Quinn Pettifer qpettifer@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1404 Tyanna Stephenson tstephenson@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1408 Vanessa Rogers vrogers@cedarrapids.org 319/730.1427
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
Professional Development
Inbound Marketing Fundamentals for Local Businesses Presented by: Chad
Gookin Web Content & SEO Strategist, Metro Studios Ed Faber Business Development Specialist, Metro Studios
Tuesday, March 13 8:00 am to 9:30 am Economic Alliance Boardroom (former Chamber Boardroom) $10.00 members $25.00 future members
Selling in the new information age: Learn how to build your sales funnel and turn website visitors into paying customers. Reach beyond traditional “outbound” methods when expanding your customer base by using more relevant, unique tools discussed in this session. In this academy program, attendees will learn the fundamentals of how to create a sales generating online presence to “get found” by more prospects shopping in your niche and convert a higher percentage into customers.
Ed Faber is a business development specialist with Metro Studios where he works with a variety of eastern Iowa clients providing website development and marketing solutions. He has more than 20 years experience in media advertising sales. He recently completed an inbound marketing training program with Hubspot, an internet marketing company that is the recognized leader this emerging industry.
Chad Gookin is the SEO & Content Strategist at Metro Studios in Hiawatha. He performs a variety of search engine optimization tactics to drive highly relevant traffic to his clients’ websites by ranking well in Google search results. Chad also works with clients to create smart, engaging content that encourages site visitors to take the desired actions. He recently completed an extensive inbound marketing training program through Hubspot, which focuses on proven techniques to generate more sales and qualified leads out of your website traffic.
FEBRUARY 2012
Wednesday, March 21 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Economic Alliance Boardroom (former Chamber Boardroom)
FREE
Lunch will be provided
Unl cking
Your Membership Are you a new member business, a new employee of a current member business or want to be updated on your Economic Alliance Membership benefits? Designed to give you the keys to getting started, Unlocking Your Membership is an orientation to all of our current events, programs and initiatives. Join fellow new members in this informal meeting to learn more about how to take advantage of all aspects of your membership. Can’t attend? Send a colleague or employee who can!
“They’re in tune with what we need.” Bruce Lehrman CEO, Involta
BANKERS TRUST commercial banker: Pat Deignan private banker: Kevin King treasury management: Sara Harrison “Bankers Trust runs their business the way businesses should be run. They really work with us to do what’s right for us, not just what’s right for them. And they make their decisions locally. If they say they’re going to do something, they do it.”
221 Third Avenue SE 319-896-7777 400 Blairs Ferry Road NE 319-221-1230 www.bankerstrust.com Member FDIC
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
Thursday, March 1 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
A Siren Night at the Museum
with ImpactCR & Cedar Rapids Museum of Art ImpactCR and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art are teaming up to bring you a night of unique entertainment, mingling and local talent! Experience the traditional ingredient of the monthly “Siren Wednesday” by enjoying food, beverages and mixing with ImpactCR leaders. Guests will have an open invitation to explore the museum and discover the museum’s latest exhibit “Lure of the Local”—a collection of more than 65 works of art from 40 area artists, showcasing a variety of media, subjects and styles used in modern day pieces. Local artists from the exhibit will be on site to provide inside perspective on their creative process. Patrons can register at the event for a chance to win a 6 party private vault tour.
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art 410 3rd Avenue SE
Free Admission No RSVP required
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FEBRUARY 2012
Community Calendar February ■■Professional
Development Academy: Green Workplace 101 Tuesday, February 7 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Boardroom Join us as Sheila shares a smart, comprehensive approach to green business practices that will save money, make you more competitive and improve your brand image. Sponsored by
■■ImpactCR
Political Parley with Representative Renee Schulte Wednesday, February 8 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Visit www.impactcr.org and Live Chat from your desk! ImpactCR have brought our elected officials to you. The Political Parley is an opportunity for you to ask questions of your elected officials. These online chats will continue semi-monthly throughout the legislative session.
■■Annual
Corridor & Kolache Day at the Capitol Wednesday, February 15 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM State Capitol 1007 East Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50319
The Annual Kolache Day at the Capitol is a favorite event that has evolved into celebrating all things made in the Corridor. We invite Corridor businesses to participate by donating locally made products to the event. If your business would like to participate in the day’s festivities contact Lisa Guge at 319/730.1401 or lguge@cedarrapids.org for details. Sponsored by D UA N E ARNOLD
■■Legislative
Lunch
Friday, February 17 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Boardroom Join us for an opportunity to discuss policies and priority issues for the 2012 Legislative Session. There is no cost to attend this brown bag luncheon, but registration is requested. Sponsored by
■■PM
Exchange
Thursday, February 23 Fairfield Suites by Marriott 605 32 Avenue SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 No Registration Required Free to Attend
March ■■ImpactCR
Siren Night at the Museum Thursday, March 1 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Cedar Rapids Museum of Art 410 3rd Avenue SE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 This month only, Siren Wedneday moves to Thursday for a special event at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art! Join ImpactCR’s Members & Mixers Committee on the first Wednesday of every month for “Siren Wednesday!” Siren Wednesday provides a casual atmosphere for ImpactCR members and friends to network and meet new people.
■■Conquer
the Corridor
Tuesday, March 6 8:00 AM Cedar Rapids Museum of Art 410 3rd Avenue SE Our community is filled with things to do and ways to get involved, but where do you go to find it all? Join staff and volunteers from the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance as they share their stories of resource triumph through Conquer the Corridor-an interactive presentation designed to get you familiar with everything Corridor. Sponsored by
Community Calendar As an Economic Alliance member, businesses can login at
www.cedarrapids.org
and submit their own event. Visit
www.cedarrapids.org/events to view the numerous events being held by Economic Alliance members throughout the community.
ImpactCR Events ImpactCR hosts a number of committee meetings each month. To learn more about the organization’s various committees or find out when the next committee meeting is visit impactcr.org for details. For the latest listing of events or to register and pay on-line please visit www.cedarrapids.org
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
Introducing our
Policy Board
Barry Boyer of Van Meter, Inc. has been elected the first board chairman of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance. Lon Olejniczak of Transamerica is the board’s vice chairman. Barry Boyer
Lon Olejniczak
The new ten-member Policy Board named Boyer and Olejniczak during its first board meeting on January 9. The other eight members are: Lydia Brown, Skywalk Group Steve Gray, Gray Venture Partners Nancy Kasparek, U.S. Bank Jeanine Penticoff, Alliant Energy Chuck Peters, Source Media Group Jeff Pomeranz, City of Cedar Rapids John Schnipkoweit, RecBob Ted Townsend, St. Luke’s Hospital
The ten-member board institutes the spirit of the new corporate structure of the Economic Alliance, with board representatives for interstate commerce, central business districts, small business and locally-owned business. The initial Board was approved by the pre-merger boards of the Chamber, Priority One and the Downtown District. Innovation Councils of the Economic Alliance will choose future board members.
“The Economic Alliance is fortunate to have such a talented, committed group of community leaders willing to step up and serve as the first board,” said President Dee Baird. “We have a lot of work to do, and this is the right group to keep us focused on our vision of being one of the top economic growth regions in the country.”
Governance Structure
FEBRUARY 2012
Innovation Councils
One of the key features of the Economic Alliance structure is the creation of Innovation Councils that will help connect customers to the organization and ensure broad involvement in the shaping of the strategic focus of the organization. Four Councils of up to 25 members each will provide input and guidance on the organization’s strategic direction. The Councils also appoint members to the Policy Board, further empowering these groups and ensuring alignment between the Policy Board and the strategic direction given by the Councils. Engagement of such a large number of customers in this way also should
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help improve investor communications, as Council members become well-informed messengers for the Economic Alliance. The initial rosters of the Innovation Councils were approved by the pre-merger organizations late last year based on volunteers recruited during Business Input Sessions and other community outreach last fall. The initial Council members will have staggered terms, ensuring continual rotation of members and new opportunities for others to get involved. If you’re interested, watch for news later this year when we begin seeking volunteers to begin terms in 2013.
In a few words... Business Support Council
Community Economic Large Development Council Development Council Investor Council
At the root of growing a region is the need to enhance regional and state trade. This council will be represented by individuals who are passionate about issues related to growing and sustaining small business and locally-owned business. At least half of its members must be from companies employing fewer than 25 people, and at least half of its members must be from locally-owned companies.
In order to develop our region, we must focus on strong central business districts, not just in Cedar Rapids but in all communities in the region that have a central business district. This Council will focus on issues related to developing and maintaining core central business districts. At least 75 percent of its members must live or work in central business districts.
In order to grow our region, we must have growth and expansion of interstate commerce bringing new dollars and investment. This Council will focus on issues related to attracting, retaining and expanding interstate commerce. At least 75 percent of its members must be part of companies that derive the majority of their business from the purchase, sale or exchange of products or services outside of Iowa.
Our largest customers are important to our financial success, as well as key communicators for the Economic Alliance. This Council will represent the 25 largest financial investors of the Economic Alliance, with initial membership determined by investments of former organizations Priority One, the Cedar Rapids Chamber of Commerce and the Cedar Rapids Downtown District.
Innovation Councils Roster Business Support
Community Development
Economic Development
Large Investor
(B) Barry Boyer Van Meter
(B) John Schnipkoweit RecBob
(B) Jeanine Penticoff Alliant Energy
(B) Lydia Brown Skywalk Group
(B) Chuck Peters SourceMedia Group
(B) Lon Olejniczak Transamerica
Lee Belfield Zins
(B) Steve Gray ImOn et al
Dawn Ainger Genova Technologies
(B) Ted Townsend St. Luke’s Hospital
Theresa Bornbach Business Exchange Center
Jill Ackerman Marion Chamber
John Bloomhall Diamond V
Larry Helling Downtown SSMID
Jon Bancks Morgan Stanley
Chris Bright Nordstrom
Jeff Pomeranz City of Cedar Rapids
Mike Esker Coldwell Banker Hedges
Brian Brandt Principal Financial
Ray Brown ESCO Group
Tom Hobson Rockwell Collins
Lois Buntz United Way
Brent Cobb World Class Industries
Vern Gebhart Alliant Energy
Gary Ficken Bimm Ridder
Ryan Buresh Prairie Soup Co.
Susan Corrigan Transamerica
Scott Gasway JP Gasway
Jordan Cohen University of Iowa
Scott Byers Iowa Realty
Steve Caves US Bank
Brad Hart Bradley & Riley
Rod Dooley Rockwell Collins Steve Dummermuth Jr. IDG Industries
John Sheehan St. Luke’s Hospital
Julie Hein Z102.9
Karl Cassell Civil Rights Commission
Keith Hindman Metro Video
Bill Courter Courter Law
Mike Felton Genencor
Kathryn Kunart MidAmerican
Tom Hughes Hughes Nursery
Chuck Hammond Raining Rose
Tim Charles Mercy Medical Center
Brad Kiburz Primus
Heather Fleming Van Meter Industrial
Richard Moffitt Marion Mixers
Tim Hankewich Orchestra Iowa
Tom Hayden Shive Hattery
Jim Hoffman 2001 Development
Ben Rogers Linn County
Mike Monnahan Blue Strawberry
Emily Fritts Schneider Electric
Mike Ivester ITC Midwest
Chuck Peters SourceMedia Group
Brendan Murphy Guaranty Bank
Tim Kintner Bankers Trust
Dan Smith Whirlpool
John Osako Informatics
Kim Johnson Kirkwood Community College
Paul Phelan Phelan’s Interiors
Christine Landa Junior Achievement
Tim Kortemeyer Penford
Mick Starcevich Kirkwood Community College
Bill Prowell Shuttleworth & Ingersoll
Robb Loftsgard Wells Fargo
Bruce Lehrman Involta
Mike Sundall PCI
Emily Meyer Ryan Companies
Mary Meisterling Alliant
Tom Metelmann Quaker/Pepsi Co.
Chad Simmons Pendennis
Charlie Rohde King’s Materials
Randy Ramlo United Fire Group
Chris Skogman Skogman
Dana Nichols Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust
Al Ruffalo RuffaloCODY
Dave Sorg OPN Architects
Kyle Skogman Skogman
DJ Smith Self-employed Attorney
Dan Smith Whirlpool
Pat Stepanek GreatAmerica Leasing
Gary Streit Shuttleworth & Ingersoll
Heather Smith Friedman de Novo Marketing
Duane Smith TrueNorth
Andy Stoll Seed Here
Roger Stone Simmons Perrine
Mark Thoeny American Profol
Charity Tyler Zach Group
Cathy Terukina SourceMedia Group
Joe Trabucco Toyota Financial
TBD City of Cedar Rapids
Larry Helling Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust
Phil Wasta Tallgrass Felicia Wyrick Adfinity Marketing
Bill Vernon Simmons Perrine Bill Vincent CliftonLarsonAllen
TBD Commission Eastern Iowa Airport TBD Interstate Commerce Bus/ MEDCO
Mark Long Wells Fargo
Jack Evans Hall Perrine Foundation
Jeff Beelman Wellmark Rick Benhart Collins Community Credit Union
Internship Directory In order to successfully grow the region and compete in a global economy, the Corridor has to compete on a local, state, national and international level for talent or workforce. If communities can’t provide an available, affordable, and capable workforce, the local economy will suffer. MyTernNow is a program created to educate young people about career opportunities in the Corridor region. The web site www.myternnow.com, is a quick, easy and cost efficient tool that markets your company and builds a workforce pipeline.
Get Involved:
1. Create a company profile on the employer directory
within the MyTernNow website, www.myternnow.com
2. Post your company’s internship opportunities 3. Pass the web site on to your contacts (including
friends, family, children, other parents, colleagues, business partners)!
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance encourages your business to get involved today. If you have any questions about MyTernNow please contact DeMaris McKee at dmckee@cedarrapids.org or call 319/398-5317.
www.myternnow.com
A Sony HVR-S270U 1080P HD Camera, four CL-655P Softlights,
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a Carl Zeiss Vario-SonnarT 1, 6/4, 4 - 52.8 lens and one reflector.
mvpvideoproduction.com | 319-364-8900
FEBRUARY 2012
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Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Reform With legislative leaders promising a short session, the opening weeks of the session have seen a lot of activity. The Economic Alliance legislative team has been analyzing various commercial property tax reform bills, partnering with the City of Cedar Rapids to re-ignite support for the Growth Reinvestment Initiative (the means for state support of flood protection) and watching the debate over education reform. Of our policy agenda items (see www.cedarrapids.org/ advocacy for our complete policy agenda), the issue that has seen the most activity so far has been reform of tax increment financing laws. Several public forums and legislative committee hearings have been held, and Economic Alliance staff has been asked to testify as to the use of tax increment financing in this region. Our answer, in short, is that while we could be open to reasonable improvements in TIF laws, it’s critical that it remain available to us as one of the very few tools in our economic development tool belt. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a method of reallocating property tax revenues produced as a result of an increase in taxable valuation above a “base valuation� figure within a tax increment area. TIF Districts are created as a means
Wednesday, February 15 8:00 am to 5 pm State Capitol 1007 East Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50319
FREE
to maximize property tax dollars within particular areas, in order to pay the cost of public improvement projects (streets, water, sewer, etc.) or to make direct economic development grants or loans to private enterprise as an incentive to locate within the tax increment financing area. In the Cedar Rapids Metro area, from 2006-2011, TIF was used to create/retain more than 3,000 jobs with an average wage of $23.79/hr. It leveraged private investment of more than $344 million in new and expanding operations. Within the Cedar Rapids metro area, TIF is typically leveraged for interstate commerce projects, and has proven to be a positive use for our communities. In the metropolitan area, TIF agreements rarely allow for all new increment to be captured, thus providing new increment to flow to traditional taxing bodies (City, County, Schools, etc). This general policy has allowed for successful use of this tool to the benefit of industry and the communities. In addition, Cedar Rapids traditionally provides TIF in the form of an annual rebate or refund of their taxes based on meeting annual performance measures. This ensures that goals are met, or refunds are not provided. Cedar Rapids is now in the position of having one of the lowest per capita TIF debt ratios in Iowa, contributing to the City of Cedar Rapids receiving a AAA bond rating.
Annual Corridor & Kolache Day at the Capitol Business leaders are invited to join the Economic Alliance as part of a delegation visiting the Capitol for Annual Corridor & Kolache Day on February 15. This FREE event offers business leaders an opportunity to take part in a series of meetings, along with a lunch with legislative leaders. These face-to-face meetings allow our region to advocate for important business issues. This event is also a time to celebrate all things made in the Corridor! We invite Corridor businesses to participate in the festivities by donating your locally manufactured products and goods to Corridor & Kolache Day at the Capitol. If your business would like to participate, please contact Lisa Guge at 319/730.1401 or lguge@cedarrapids.org for details. The Economic Alliance plans to play an active role at the Capitol this legislative session, promoting its pro-business policy agenda and helping members with business-specific initiatives. For details on our policy agenda, please contact Doug Neumann at 319/730.1414 or dneumann@cedarrapids.org.
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
Legislative Update
Stronger Voice at the Capitol Part of the promise of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance has been a more pro-active and comprehensive public policy strategy. The new governance and staffing structure devote significant attention to accomplishing that. However, filling new staff positions and allowing the Innovation Councils and Policy Board to develop the strategies and priorities that will drive our public policy approach will take some time. Time, though, is not a luxury we have when it comes to the Iowa Legislature.
A critical legislative session is underway, and the Economic Alliance needs to be able to represent business interests like an old pro, not an organization in its infancy. Fortunately, we have the people and a game plan to do exactly that. The Economic Alliance has contracted with two professionals to give us a near-constant presence at the Capitol in Des Moines during the current session. They will work as a team, but they also have distinctly different purposes:
Veteran lobbyist Gary Grant, of Cedar Rapids-based Grant Consulting, will lead our traditional lobbying efforts. He will help develop and execute strategies that help achieve specific aims of Economic Alliance members; inform Economic Alliance staff about significant developments related to its legislative priority list; and suggest advocacy strategies related to the major initiatives list. Grant is a former staffer of former Congressman Jim Leach and has been immersed in a variety of public policy lobbying for the last several years. Grant is particularly in tune with local business and local government issues, with extensive experience related to small business flood recovery. Heather Armstrong will team with Grant, with a greater focus on education and awareness. It’s an important time for legislators and other stakeholders in state offices to understand what the Economic Alliance is. Armstrong will work to educate them about the Economic Alliance structure, goals and priorities, as well as working to establish and strengthen relationships at the state level. She also will assist in logistical planning that helps Economic Alliance staff and members have productive visits to the Capitol; and attend legislative meetings and functions at which the Economic Alliance should be present. Armstrong has been a long-time board member of the Iowa Finance Authority, and knows the people and places around the Capitol very well. She also has been involved in local party politics and comes from a politically active family that includes her dad, former State Rep. Ro Foege.
Grant and Armstrong both will help identify times when Economic Alliance staff leadership, board members or businesses should raise their voices in Des Moines. President Dee Baird and Executive Vice President Doug Neumann both plan on several trips to Des Moines to work on the Economic Alliance’s pro-growth and pro-development public policy agenda. Businesses that have legislative issues specific to their industry—and on which they would like assistance from the Economic Alliance—can contact Neumann at dneumann@cedarrapids.org.
FEBRUARY 2012
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Workshop for Homeowners
WORKSHOPS Saving Money Through Energy Efficiency Many people believe that things like death, taxes and high utility bills are inevitable and there’s nothing you can do about them. Not so, says Indian Creek Nature Center. About 15 years ago, the Center converted from incandescent to fluorescent lighting and added occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights off when not needed. Electric consumption—and their energy bill— dropped 41%. “That’s real money we saved, and I did the same thing at my home,” said Nature Center Director Rich Patterson. Thanks to grants from Alliant Energy’s Bright Lights program the Nature Center took efficiency one step further by replacing obsolete lights with modern Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights. “They are bright and pleasant and only use a tiny amount of electricity,” says Patterson. At the same time, the Center replaced older fluorescent tubes with newer, more efficient ones that contain far less mercury.
“Nearly every area business and home can significantly save on utility costs by investing in efficient lighting, insulation, furnaces and appliances.”
Patterson says,
To demonstrate how readily these changes can be made, the Nature Center will host two workshops in February providing specific information on proven techniques that reduce utility bills.
The workshops are sponsored by the Iowa Energy Center. There is no cost to attend either workshop but pre-registration is required by 4 pm on Thursday, February 9th. Call 319/362.0664 to register. Visit www.indiancreeknaturecenter.org for details.
Saturday, February 11 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm To demonstrate changes that will make their homes more energy efficient.
Workshop for Small Business & Nonprofit
Tuesday, February 14 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Will give instruction on building management techniques and efficient lighting.
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
26th Annual
Celebration of Agriculture The 26th annual Celebration of Agricultural Dinner will be held on March 13, 2012, at the Cedar Rapids Marriott Hotel. The dinner provides an opportunity for businesses and individuals to recognize and support the economic impact of agriculture in Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa. The dinner is sponsored by the Celebration of Agriculture Committee in conjunction with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, with over 600 persons attending annually.
This year’s speaker is John Phipps, host of the weekly, nationally televised U.S. Farm Report program. John was raised on a six-generation farm in Illinois. After graduating from college and serving in the U.S. Navy, John returned to the family farm in 1975. John’s been active in county, state and national agricultural organizations for over 30 years. He is a Contributing Editor to Farm Journal and Top Producer magazines with monthly articles providing commentary mixed with humor. John’s presentation is titled “Preparing for a Black Swan Flew.” John Phipps holds a degree in chemical engineering, studied economics, and served as a submarine nuclear engineer, all of which contribute to his unique perspective on rural culture. His farm of 2,200 acres of corn and soybeans is located in East Central Illinois and has been in the family for seven generations. Since 1994 he has written award-winning humor and commentary for Farm Journal and Top Producer magazines. In August 2005, John became the TV host of US Farm Report. In conjunction with his Farm Journal work, he speaks to farm and rural groups on topics ranging from risk to professional development.
In addition to the keynote speaker this year, the program will include a short presentation by “Farmers Feeding the World,” an initiative launched by the Farm Journal Foundation. Farmers Feeding the World is devoted to two endeavors: putting food and the ability to grow food in the hands of the hungry, and educating the public on the critical importance of sustainable commercial agriculture. The Celebration of Agriculture committee and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance applaud this effort. Visit www.FarmersFeedingtheWorld.org to learn more about their programs. Tickets for the dinner are $40 each. A reserved table of ten can be purchased for $400. Contact Lisa Guge at lguge@cedarrapids.org to order tickets.
Tuesday, March 13 Reception 6 pm Dinner Program 7 pm Marriott Hotel Cedar Rapids $40.00 per ticket Reservations Required
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FEBRUARY 2012
New Members
Ribbon Cuttings
Infinite Computing Systems, Inc. 425 2nd Street SE Suite 600 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401 Tami McIntyre: Sr. Sales Manager P: 319/297.7530 ext. 250 F: 319/297.7540 W: www.infinite-usa.com E: tmcintyre@infinite-usa.com Infinite Computing Systems, Inc. is a Cedar Rapids based global company which develops custom software applications and web content management systems for clients around the world. Infinite is a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner, DotNetNuke Gold Partner and is ISO 9000 and CMMI level 3 certified.
Truck Country December 15
Shores Event Center 700 16th Street NE, Suite L100 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402 Mindy Seiffert: Event Coordinator P: 319/521.7287 W: www.shoreseventcenter.com E: info@shoreseventcenter.com Shores Event Center is Cedar Rapids’ newest and most unique venue for weddings, parties, meetings, or events. Housed in the 100 year old Shores-Mueller building, Shores Event Center opened in September 2011. This fabulously restored building provides modern amenities and historic charm, truly making it a one-of-a-kind venue in Eastern Iowa.
True North January 19
Cedar Rapids Titans 1100 Rockford Road SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 Eric George: Director of Business Development P:319/730.6302 F: 319/398.0101 W: www.cedarrapidstitans.com E: egeorge@cedarrapidstitans.com The Cedar Rapids Titans are an indoor professional football team playing our first season in the CR ice arena. Next year we will move into the renovated US Cellular Center.
Enseva November 18
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CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
January PM Exchange Recap
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More than 400 members enjoyed an evening of networking at the January PM hosted by TrueNorth. TrueNorth recently relocated their offices to the former downtown library location at (500 First Street SE). Thank you to all who attended, and special thanks to TrueNorth for hosting such a great event!
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Join us for the Grand Opening & PM Exchange
Thursday, February 23 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
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JOIN US FOR REFRESHMENTS, & HORS D'OEUVRES
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Register to win door prizes. Check-out our brand new rooms. See you there! Visit us at: www.fairfieldinn/cidcr.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott 605 32nd Ave SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 319-247-1000
Contact the Economic Alliance and learn more about the numerous opportunities to maximize your marketing dollars. From PM Exchanges, Featured Member of the Month, newsletter, on-line and more; The Economic Alliance can help you gain exposure and positively impact your bottom line.
FEBRUARY 2012
Tuesday, March 6 8:00 am to 9:00 am Cedar Rapids Museum of Art 410 3rd Avenue SE
Free
Light breakfast & beverages provided RSVP Required
19
Conquer
The
Corridor
O n e C o m m u n i t y. E n d l e s s O p p o r t u n i t i e s . The Corridor is filled with things to do and ways to get involved, but where do you go to find it all? Join staff and volunteers from the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance for Conquer the Corridor, a FREE 45 minute presentation designed to get you connected to “all things Corridor.” From community basics to volunteer opportunities, nightlife, culture and beyond, this high-energy and interactive program will leave you charged up and proud of the place you call home! Light breakfast and beverages provided, along with a calendar of upcoming events and resource packet. Reserve your seat by contacting Quinn Pettifer at qpettifer@cedarrapids.org or 319/730.1404.
MRG is the region’s leading Talent Management firm because we don’t follow the crowd.
Thanks to Presenting Sponsor Bankers Trust and Host Sponsor The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
Stop and think. What’s your most valuable corporate asset? People. At MRG, our professionals go above and beyond to attract, assess, coach and transition the right talent for your company. In business since 1989, we have the local expertise and global resources to ‘think different’ and deliver results beyond what you’d expect. Find us at www.mrgpeople.com
Need Printing or Mailing? Call Chuck at
Cornerstone Press
378-4451
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Cornerstone Press
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