Blog

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  Shop Local. Shop the Cedar Valley.

  posted on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 in Live the Valley

  This holiday season, Live the Valley is encouraging everyone to get out, explore, and support local businesses across the Cedar Valley. We've scattered 600 festive shopping bags throughout downtown shops in Waterloo and Cedar Falls, with some bags hiding surprise gift cards worth up to $100! Here's the fun part: find a bag in Waterloo, and you might score a gift card for Cedar Falls, or the other way around!  Ready to discover what's waiting just across the way? Read the full story in the blog.

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  November 2024 Cedar Valley Leadership Institute

  posted on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

  The Cedar Valley Leadership Institute's November session focused on community engagement and giving back. Beginning at Hawkeye Community College's Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center, participants explored board service with Dr. Julianne Gassman and connected with 12 local non-profits during a Power-Networking Fair. After lunch and team project planning, the group volunteered at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, wrapping up with networking at Jameson's Public House.

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  Friday Forum November 2024

  posted on Friday, November 1, 2024 in Government Affairs

  The November Friday Forum, featuring Dr. Chris Larimer from UNI, gave attendees insights into understanding election outcomes ahead of Tuesday's vote. Dr. Larimer discussed polling accuracy, the impact of growing partisanship on straight-ticket voting, and Iowa's unique competitiveness in congressional elections.

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  Made in the Cedar Valley: SciPlay's Story

  posted on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

  The Cedar Valley is full of surprises, including a growing hub of game development. In this Made in the Cedar Valley series, we're featuring SciPlay, a company that's been making waves in the world of mobile gaming right here in our own backyard. From a small startup to a global developer and publisher of free-to-play games, SciPlay's journey is an inspiring example of the Cedar Valley's innovative spirit.

• Hear from the Candidates: Iowa House of Representatives

  posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 in Government Affairs

  Advocacy is a central part of Grow Cedar Valley's mission to support economic development in the region. As part of these efforts, we reached out to Iowa House of Representatives to understand their perspectives on key economic issues impacting the Cedar Valley.  Grow Cedar Valley received a joint response from Iowa House Representatives Bob Kressig (District 75), Jerome Amos Jr. (District 62), and Timi Brown-Powers (District 61).

• Hear from the Candidates: Iowa State Senator for District 38

  posted on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 in Government Affairs

  Advocacy is a central part of Grow Cedar Valley's mission to support economic development in the region. As part of these efforts, we reached out to Iowa Senate candidates to understand their perspectives on key economic issues impacting the Cedar Valley. Below, we've provided their unedited responses side by side.

• Hear from the Candidates: Iowa's Second Congressional District

  posted on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 in Government Affairs

  Advocacy is a central part of Grow Cedar Valley's mission to support economic development in the region. As part of these efforts, we reached out to Iowa Congressional candidates to understand their perspectives on key economic issues impacting the Cedar Valley. Below, we've provided their unedited responses side by side.

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  Civility in the Workplace

  posted on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

  Creating a workplace culture rooted in respect, empathy, and understanding requires a clear and intentional approach. Grow Cedar Valley invited Scott Raecker, Executive Director of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University and former Iowa House Representative, to discuss how integrating civility into daily interactions can strengthen teams and support a positive environment. His talk offered a framework and specific actions that any organization can implement.

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  Made in the Cedar Valley: Spotlight on OMJC Signal

  posted on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

  OMJC Signal has been a leader in portable traffic solutions since 1985, growing from refurbishing equipment to developing cutting-edge traffic systems. Based in Waterloo, OMJC provides advanced solutions that enhance safety and efficiency in work zones nationwide. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and employee growth is at the heart of their success. Learn more about OMJC's journey and the people who make it all possible.

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  Connecting Talent to Opportunity Through the Community Champion Program

  posted on Monday, August 26, 2024 in Grow Cedar Valley

  The Community Champion Program is designed to create connections by linking prospective residents directly with local experts who can provide real-world advice and support. Stephanie Detweiler, PHR, Director of Workforce and Talent at Grow Cedar Valley, is at the forefront of this initiative. Whether it's offering information on job opportunities, helping navigate housing options, or sharing the unique lifestyle benefits of the Cedar Valley, Stephanie and other champions provide the expertise an