- West Union Main Street Chamber Newsletter
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- May 2025 Newsletter
May 2025 Newsletter
Your Monthly Hub for Business, Community, and City Updates
Table of Contents
Kicking Off May in West Union!
Happy May from the West Union Main Street Chamber! The community is bustling with activity as we head into warmer weather. This month's newsletter is packed with information to keep you connected.
Don't miss the West Union Block Party happening this Saturday, May 3rd – it's sure to be a fantastic downtown celebration! Also coming up are the city-wide garage sales and the annual spring curbside cleanup.
Inside this issue, we're excited to feature a new local business, welcome many new and returning Chamber members, share updates from our hardworking committees (including the launch of the Challenge Grant pre-application!), highlight important funding opportunities, provide key City updates, and recognize a dedicated community volunteer.
Read on for all the details shaping our vibrant community this May!
Community Events
Want to know what's happening in West Union? Make the online Community Event Calendar your first stop! It's constantly updated with a wide variety of activities – from business promotions and workshops to community gatherings, live entertainment, and civic meetings. Regularly checking the calendar is the best way to stay informed about opportunities to engage, learn, shop, and connect right here in our community. Don't miss out on what West Union has to offer!
Is your business hosting a promotion? Is your organization planning a meeting or fundraiser? Help make our community calendar the best it can be by adding your own events! Submitting your event details ensures maximum visibility, reaching residents and visitors alike, and contributes to a vibrant, well-informed community. It's easy to add your event – simply click the button below or contact the Chamber office for assistance. Share your happenings and help keep West Union connected!
New Business - Element Salon & Spa
Let's give a big welcome to Element Salon & Spa, now open in its beautiful new building at the corner of Highway 18 and North Pine Street! Owner Chelsea Ahlstrom has created a space focused on providing personalized services with client privacy in mind, operating on an appointment-only basis.
Element Salon & Spa offers a range of hair services including cuts, coloring, and extensions. A unique highlight is the Infrared Therapy Sauna, providing relaxation and wellness benefits distinct from traditional steam saunas.
Enhancing the spa experience, Shelby Moore, a licensed esthetician, operates The Beauty Room within Element Salon & Spa. Shelby offers tailored skincare treatments including facials, light chemical peels, full body waxing, spray tans, lash lifts/tints, and make-up application.
Together, Chelsea and Shelby also provide convenient on-site hair and makeup services for wedding parties at the clients' chosen locations.
Contact Information:
Element Salon & Spa (Chelsea Ahlstrom): For hair services, sauna, or bridal hair. Call (563) 380-9417 or book via the Element Salon Facebook page.
The Beauty Room (Shelby Moore): For esthetician services or bridal makeup. Call (563) 379-8651 or visit thebeautyroombyshelby.glossgenius.com.
Stop by their new location to see the space and inquire about appointments!
Committee Updates
Promotion Committee
The Promotion Committee is in the final stages of preparation for the West Union Block Party, and the excitement is building! Our committee members have been hard at work finalizing the event layout, coordinating with participating downtown businesses, lining up volunteers, and tackling all the crucial logistical details to ensure a smooth and fun-filled day for everyone. Alongside event planning, the committee continues its efforts to secure community support and donations that make free events like the Block Party and the upcoming Playin' on the Plaza series possible.
West Union Block Party
Get ready for the West Union Block Party! Don't miss the fun this Saturday, May 3rd, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM right here in Downtown West Union! It's going to be a fantastic community celebration packed with activities for everyone. Enjoy live music from the talented Casey Klein, challenge your friends to hilarious human foosball, let the kids jump in the bounce houses, grab delicious bites from local food trucks, witness the pie-eating contest sponsored by Gus & Tony's Townhouse Cafe, and watch energetic performances by Expressions Dance Studio. Plus, many of our wonderful downtown businesses will be open! Come out, support local, and enjoy a day of music, games, food, and community spirit. Want to hear more? Promotion Committee Chair Zach Smith did a fantastic job speaking about the event – watch his interview via the link below!
Saboe Jewelry Block Party Sale Flyer
Gus & Tony’s Townhouse Cafe Block Party Pie Eating Contest Flyer
beYou Nutrition Block Party Flyer
Playin’ on the Plaza
Get ready for Thursday nights filled with live music! The annual Playin' on the Plaza music series returns every Thursday from June 12th to August 7th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Courthouse Amphitheatre.
Enjoy a diverse lineup of talented musicians, including:
June 12: David Woods
June 19: Brittany Sword
June 26: Chet Reagan (feat. Miss West Union Crowning)
July 3: Angela Meyer
July 10: The Buck Hollow Band
July 17: Denny & Bernie
July 31: Bruce Bearinger
August 7: Patsy & the Plum Street Jam
This year, we're excited to offer local food delivery directly to the plaza, allowing you to enjoy delicious food from West Union restaurants while you listen to the music.
Support Playin' on the Plaza!
Playin' on the Plaza is a FREE community event, made possible by the generosity of our community. If you'd like to contribute to the music series, please consider making a donation. Your support helps us bring live music to downtown West Union.
Design Committee
The Design Committee continues its work enhancing the visual appeal and experience of West Union. Here’s what they’ve been up to:
Downtown Gardens
Successful Spring Cleanup: A big thank you to all the volunteers who came out on April 12th for the "Rakes and Rolls" downtown garden cleanup! Your hard work made a noticeable difference in preparing our downtown gardens for the season. Information about the cleanup effort has also been submitted to Keep Iowa Beautiful. (See photos from the cleanup below!)
 Design Committee Member Mallory Hanson giving instructions to the volunteers  Bank 1st gardens  Robin Bostrom and a volunteer working on her gardens |  West Union Main Street Chamber President Chris DeBack and volunteer Sandra Marsala working on the Chamber’s garden  Rod Marlatt & Mallory Hanson work on the Fayette County Conservation gardens  Volunteers working on the Girl Scout Troop 1873 garden |
Spring Scavenger Hunt
West Union Spring Scavenger Hunt Buzz: The West Union Spring Scavenger Hunt has seen great community engagement, with many submissions received already! Haven't played yet? There's still time! Explore downtown, identify the photo locations using the app, and submit your guesses. Remember, answers will be revealed on June 1st via the Chamber's Facebook page, and they'll include interesting facts or history about the locations pictured. Keep playing and testing your knowledge of West Union!
West Union Spring Scavenger Hunt Flyer
Trail Signage
Exploring Trail Signage Enhancements: The committee is exploring trail signage options, working to assist the City. This includes potential solutions including directional markings, creative 3D art, and parking/directional signs, while also investigating grant opportunities to fund additional signage.
Economic Vitality Committee
The Economic Vitality Committee has been working to support local development opportunities, and we're excited to announce one key initiative is now active:
2025 Challenge Grant Pre-Application
Local Challenge Grant Application Now Live!
The pre-application process to select the ONE project West Union Main Street Chamber will nominate for the 2025 Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant is now open.
This state grant offers up to $100,000 (with a required 1:1 cash match) for significant "bricks and mortar" rehabilitation projects or compatible new construction within our designated Main Street district.
The goal of this local process is to identify the project with the highest likelihood of receiving funding at the state level.
Interested property/business owners with eligible projects must submit the local pre-application by 12:00 PM on Monday, June 30th, 2025.
The West Union Main Street Chamber Board, with input from the Economic Vitality Committee, will select the project to move forward to the state application round.
Please contact the the West Union Main Street Chamber office if you have questions about the Challenge Grant or the local application process. We’ve included the flyer for this year’s Challenge Grant below.
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Organization Committee
15th Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser
Golf Tournament - Sponsors & Teams Needed! Preparations are underway for the 15th Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, June 14th, at Pleasant Valley Sports Club. The committee is actively seeking sponsors and teams for this fun event supporting the Chamber. Please contact the Chamber office to learn about sponsorship levels or to register your 4-person team!
Date: Saturday, June 14th, 2025
Registration: 8:00 AM
Shotgun Start: 9:00 AM
Format: 4-Person, Best-Shot, 8-Inch Cup
Location: Pleasant Valley Sports Club
Team & Sponsorship Opportunities:
Basic Team ($160):
$160 per team
Includes lunch and green fees.
Premium Team ($300):
$300 per team
Includes Basic Team benefits and free drinks.
Hole Sponsor ($100):
$100 per business
Includes signage with name & logo at a hole.
Tournament Sponsor ($250):
$250 per business
Includes Basic Team and Hole Sponsor benefits, social media recognition, formal event recognition, and Mulligans & Flag Events.
Marquee Sponsor ($500):
$500 per business
Includes Premium Team and Tournament Sponsor benefits, and signage at registration.
Main Street Data Initiative - BOOMS Tracker
Main Street Data Initiative (BOOMS Tracker): The committee is working diligently to complete the Building Opportunities on Main Street (BOOMS) Tracker for West Union. This Main Street America tool helps inventory buildings and lots within our district, tracking data like vacancy, current use, and building conditions. Compiling this information helps identify development opportunities, attract investment, and support advocacy efforts for our downtown.
City of West Union Updates
Upcoming Alley Paving West of Vine Street (May 5-7)
Please be advised that Heartland Asphalt will be performing milling and asphalt paving in the alley located west of Vine Street, specifically between Maple Street and Plum Street (behind the block including Old City Hall/Brynn's Bargains).
This work is scheduled for Monday, May 5th through Wednesday, May 7th.
The alley section behind the Post Office and Kerndt Brothers block (Adam St to Maple St) will not be affected.
Businesses, residents, tenants, and suppliers in the affected block (Maple to Plum) should anticipate disruptions and are advised to coordinate deliveries or access needs accordingly and avoid the work area during this time. The City apologizes for any inconvenience and notes this project will greatly improve the alley surface. For questions, contact City Hall.
City Wide Garage Sales (May 7-10)
Get ready for the City Wide Garage Sales happening May 7th through 10th! As part of the event, the Fayette County Thrift Store will provide a donation trailer for items you wish to donate after your sales. A big thank you to the Boy Scouts and Lion’s Club volunteers who will be manning the trailer on Saturday (10 AM - 4 PM) and Sunday (Noon - 4 PM).
City Curbside Cleanup (May 12-13)
Mark your calendars for the annual City Curbside Cleanup! Pickup for residents north of Highway 18 is scheduled for Monday, May 12th. Pickup for residents south of Highway 18 is scheduled for Tuesday, May 13th. Please note that certain items require a fee sticker for pickup.
Nuisance Ordinance Enforcement
The West Union Police Department will be actively enforcing city nuisance ordinances throughout the spring and summer. This includes addressing issues such as junk or unlicensed vehicles, junk accumulation in yards, grass/weeds exceeding height limits, and dilapidated structures needing repair or removal. Citations may be issued for violations. Let's all work together to keep West Union looking its best!
Fayette County Updates
Master Gardener Plant Sale
Best Practices for Food Entrepreneurs
Best Practices for Food Entrepreneurs Flyer
New Member Spotlight
Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank (Gold)
We are thrilled to welcome Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank as a Gold Member! Serving Iowa communities since 1856, Kerndt Brothers is a family bank committed to helping customers achieve their financial goals. Their West Union branch, located at 205 N Vine Street, offers a full spectrum of services including personal and business checking and savings, home, auto, agricultural, and commercial loans, as well as insurance and investment services. Stop in to see how their experienced local team, including Market President Matt McCallum and Branch Manager Tracy Nydegger, can assist you!
Contact (West Union Branch):
Phone: (563) 422-6072
Website: https://www.kerndtbrothers.com/
Fahr Beverage (Gold)
A big welcome to Gold Member Fahr Beverage, Inc.! Fahr Beverage is a key beverage distributor serving Northeast Iowa, ensuring that favorite drinks are available locally. As an Anheuser-Busch wholesaler and distributor of other beers and beverages, they supply numerous retailers, restaurants, and bars throughout the region from their local West Union distribution center. We appreciate their investment in our community!
Contact (West Union Location):
Address: 101 S. Industrial Parkway, West Union, IA 52175
Phone: (563) 422-6095
Company Website: https://www.fahrbeverage.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FahrBeverage
Kerndt Brothers Storage (Silver)
We're happy to welcome Silver Member Kerndt Brothers Storage! Providing convenient self-storage solutions, they operate multiple facilities within West Union, including locations on N Washington St and Hwy 150 South. Kerndt Brothers Storage offers a variety of unit sizes with features like 24-hour access, drive-up access, and the convenience of online rentals and bill pay. Whether you need short-term or long-term storage, check out their options!
Contact:
Phone: (319) 313-4499
Websites: Kerndt Brothers Storage | West Union Storage
Anytime Fitness (Bronze)
Let's welcome Bronze Member Anytime Fitness to the Chamber! Located conveniently at 313 Hwy 150 North, Anytime Fitness offers members 24/7 access to a wide range of fitness equipment, including cardio machines, strength training, free weights, and functional gear. Their supportive, locally owned environment, personalized coaching options, and free fitness consultations help members reach their health and wellness goals. Plus, membership includes access to thousands of Anytime Fitness locations worldwide!
Contact:
Phone: (563) 422-3100
Website: Anytime Fitness West Union
Dillon Law P.C. (Bronze)
We are pleased to welcome Dillon Law, PC as a Bronze Member! With an office conveniently located at 103 N Vine St in West Union, Dillon Law is a general practice firm serving clients across Northeast Iowa. Attorney Pat Dillon and his team focus on providing responsive service tailored to the needs of individuals, farmers, and businesses in our region. Their practice areas include Agricultural Law, Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate, Tax Preparation, Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense, and Family Law. They offer free initial consultations to discuss your legal needs.
Contact (West Union Office):
Address: 103 N Vine St, West Union, IA 52175
Phone: (563) 422-3859
Website: https://dillonlawpc.com/
Gage & Gage Plumbing & Heating, Inc. (Bronze)
Gage & Gage Plumbing & Heating Logo
Please join us in welcoming Gage & Gage Plumbing & Heating, Inc. as a Bronze Member! Located at 609 Hwy 150 South in West Union, they are your local source for essential plumbing, heating, and air conditioning contracting services. For assistance with your residential or commercial needs, reach out to Travis Scholbrock and the team.
Contact:
Address: 609 Hwy 150 South, West Union, IA 52175
Phone: (563) 422-5691
Vogel Insurance Agency (Bronze)
A warm welcome to Bronze Member, Vogel Insurance Agency! As an independent insurance agency established in 1960, they offer a comprehensive suite of insurance products to meet diverse needs. Whether you require personal coverage (like auto, home, renters, or powersports), commercial/business insurance, farm policies, or life and health insurance, their experienced agents work with multiple carriers to find tailored solutions. While their primary office is located in Oelwein, they are ready to serve clients in the West Union area.
Contact (Oelwein Office):
Address: 34 W Charles St, Oelwein, IA 50662
Phone: (319) 283-1836
Website: https://www.vogelins.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vogelinsuranceagencyoelwein
Foundations Wealth Partners | Raymond James (Bronze)
Please welcome Bronze Member, Foundations Wealth Partners, an independent wealth management practice affiliated with Raymond James Financial Services. Located at 105 E Main St in West Union, Financial Advisors Amanda Schneider and Brian Gibson offer a team approach to provide comprehensive financial planning and wealth management services. They assist individuals, families, and businesses with retirement planning, portfolio management, education planning, risk management, and more.
Contact (West Union Office):
Address: 105 E Main St Ste 1, West Union, IA 52175 | 128 N Main St, Elkader, IA 52043
Phone: (563) 422-6250
Website: https://www.raymondjames.com/fwp
Lilac Lanes (Bronze)
We're delighted to welcome Bronze Member Lilac Lanes Bowling Center! Located at 614 W Bradford St, Lilac Lanes is West Union's fun, family-friendly destination for bowling. Whether you're joining a league, looking for open bowling fun, or planning a party, they've got the lanes ready. They also feature a sports bar offering food and drinks. Lilac Lanes is a great community partner, recently hosting the Chamber's successful bowling tournament!
Contact:
Phone: (563) 422-3594
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057258379338
Bethany Lutheran Church (Non-Profit)
Please welcome Non-Profit Member, Bethany Lutheran Church! Located nearby at 29746 Iris Road outside Ossian, Bethany Lutheran has served the community for roughly 80 years, sharing God's love and truth through worship centered on the Word and Sacraments. Led by Pastor Zach Smith, who is also an active member and volunteer within our West Union community, the church offers Sunday worship at 10:30 AM (in-person and online), Sunday School at 9:30 AM, and Wednesday Bible Study at 7:00 PM.
Contact:
Address: 29746 Iris Road, Ossian, IA 52161
Phone: (715) 505-2228
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.bethanychurchonline.com/
Echo Valley Archers (Non-Profit)
We're excited to welcome Echo Valley Archers as a new Non-Profit member! This local archery club is dedicated to promoting the sport of archery in Fayette County. They host various events throughout the year, including leagues and 2D/3D shoots, primarily held at the Show Barn at the Fayette County Fairgrounds in West Union during the winter or at Volga River State Recreation Area during the summer. Whether you're a seasoned archer or interested in learning more, Echo Valley Archers provides opportunities for participation and competition.
Contact:
Phone: (563) 380-7417
Website: http://www.echovalleyarchers.com/
Business Updates
Koch Real Estate
Joel Koehn - Koch Real Estate
Spencer Koch - Koch Real Estate
Koch Real Estate Team Expands
Congratulations to Koch Real Estate on their recent growth! They are excited to welcome Joel Koehn as their newest licensed agent. Joel, a Fayette resident also known for his work as a local Paramedic EMS, brings his dedication to serving the community to his new role as a Realtor while continuing his EMS career.
Additionally, Spencer Koch is now licensed in Iowa and has officially joined the team alongside Emily Koch. When clients hire Emily or Spencer, they benefit from having both agents working together to sell their home or find the perfect property.
The full Koch Real Estate team now includes Emily Koch, Dillon Baumler, Spencer Koch, and Joel Koehn. Congratulations to the growing team!
Tindell Shoes
Loomis Plumbing & Heating
Loomis Plumbing & Heating Logo
Don't forget your annual AC check-up as summer approaches to ensure a cool and comfortable season.
Fehr Graham
Fehr Graham Logo
Fehr Graham climbs the Engineering News Record Top 500 Design Firm list
Fehr Graham, a leading Midwest engineering and environmental firm, continued its successful streak of ranking on the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm list, ranking No. 435.
The firm climbed 39 places from its 2024 ranking of No. 474. It ranked No. 471 in 2023 and No. 494 in 2022, reflecting a consistent trend of growth. ENR ranks firms based on annual revenue data collected from engineering companies across the country. Fehr Graham's steady rise signals the firm's continued expansion and success in serving communities throughout Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin.
Fehr Graham President Kyle Saunders credits the achievement to the firm's people-first approach.
We're committed to the people and communities we serve – and to solving their complex problems. Our position on the ENR Top Design Firms list shows not just our talents and dedication to service, but also the positive impacts we're having on the communities we call home.
Founded in Freeport, Illinois, in 1973 by Al Fehr and Joe Graham, the firm has grown from five employees to 250 people across 13 offices in three states. Growth has come organically and through strategic acquisitions.
Fehr Graham partners with private and public clients on projects ranging from water and wastewater treatment facilities to roads, bridges and highways. The firm also designs stormwater solutions, sanitary sewer collection systems, water distribution, production and storage facilities, parking lots, residential and commercial developments, parks and more.
Gus & Tony’s Townhouse Cafe
Gus & Tony’s Townhouse Cafe Closed May 9th Flyer
Gus & Tony’s Townhouse Cafe Mother’s Day Menu
beYou Nutrition
NAPA Auto Parts
NAPA Auto Parts 2025 Show & Shine Schedule
Join NAPA Auto Parts every 4th Thursday (6-8 PM) for their Show & Shine!
May 22nd: Kick-off with Gary Smith DJ (5:30-9 PM)
July 24th: At the Fairgrounds!
Support local and enjoy the shine! Questions? Call Lloyd at 563-422-1817.
Emplify Health by Gundersen & Euphoria Coffee
Healthy Hustle 5K is an annual Family-Friendly Fun Run/Walk in West Union Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 8 a.m. Participants registered before April 30 will be guaranteed a t-shirt and are eligible for prizes! Water and refreshments will be provided post-event at the hospital where the run/walk will start and end.
PLUS Participating moms will get a flower for Mother's Day and the first 50 to register will get $1 off coffee and/or waffles the day of the event thanks to our friends at Euphoria!
Online registration: https://bit.ly/5K-Regisration
Registration Fee: $20
American Legion Post 15
National Poppy Day®
May 23, 2025
Poppy Day is celebrated in countries around the world. The American Legion Family brought National Poppy Day® to the United States by asking Congress to designate the Friday before Memorial Day, as National Poppy Day.
On the Friday before Memorial Day, wear a red poppy to honor the fallen and support the living who have worn our nation's uniform.
The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice worn by Americans since World War I to honor those who served and died for our country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our veterans while protecting our freedoms.
Led by the American Legion Auxiliary, each year members of The American Legion Family distribute poppies with a request that the person receiving the flower make a donation to support the future of veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with medical and financial needs.
Anyone interested in attending or sponsoring a delegate for Iowa Boys State—a weeklong leadership and government program for high school juniors—should reach out to Dennis Soppe with the American Legion. He can be contacted at (563) 379-1397 for details on participant eligibility, sponsorship opportunities, and application deadlines. This is a valuable chance to invest in the next generation of civic leaders while supporting a time-honored program that builds knowledge, confidence, and community engagement.
The Union Newspaper
Show Your Support for Local Graduates! Graduation season is just around the corner! The Union newspaper invites West Union businesses to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025 by placing a congratulatory ad in their upcoming special feature. Please reach out directly to The Union for more information.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (563) 422-3888
Euphoria Farmer’s Market
Summer evenings are about to get exciting! Get ready for the 2025 Euphoria Farmer's Market season, kicking off Thursday, June 5th! Join the fun every 1st and 3rd Thursday from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, running through September at 124 E Elm St. Expect an amazing lineup of vendors, live music, and fantastic community fun with unique themes each market night – including Touch a Truck, Barnyard Night, Christmas in July, and more! Mark your calendars for a fun-filled market season!
June 5: Touch a Truck Night
June 19: Barnyard Night
July 17: Christmas in July
August 7: Back to School Night
August 21: Princess and Prince Night
September 4: Hero - Safety Night
September 18: Senior-Health Night
West Union Hardware
West Union Hardware Greenhouse Announcement
Reierson Retirement & Investment
Brynn’s Bargains
West Union Event Center
B & B Construction
Driftless Knives
Spring is here, don’t forget to get your garden tools sharpened
Neighborhood Home
Funding Opportunities
Workforce Housing Tax Credits
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is currently accepting applications through June 10 for workforce housing tax credits. The program is designed to develop new housing opportunities in communities across the state, focusing on projects that use abandoned, empty or dilapidated properties. IEDA has $35 million available for the current round with a limit of $1 million per project. A portion of the total allocation has been set aside for developments in small communities, defined as those within Iowa’s 88 least-populated counties. Project applications are scored competitively based on readiness, documented financing, community impact and developer experience. Awards will be announced in August. Learn more: This recording provides an overview on the program and application process. Apply now. Questions, contact [email protected].
New Levitt Foundation Live Music Grant
You're invited to a live webinar on Thursday, May 15, at 12 PM Central Time, to learn about an exciting, multi-year-matching grant opportunity of up to $120K (up to $40K each year) for towns and cities of all sizes to present a free outdoor concert series. Applications open May 1 through June 30, 2025, for the 2026-2028 Levitt Music Series Grants to activate underused public spaces and build community through the power of free, live music. This webinar will cover key details about the program. Registration for the webinar is located here.
T-Mobile Hometown Grant Program Applications
Apply Now: Up to $50,000 Grants for Small Towns (communities under 50,000 pop.) This program provides funding to help build stronger, more prosperous small towns and rural communities! Application deadline: 11:59 p.m. (CT), Monday, June 30. To learn more, click here.
Applications and instructional video will be released on June 23.
Design assistance requests must be submitted by July 30 to ensure assistance before the grant deadline.
Applications are due August 27.
Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Grant Program
Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and will be awarded as funds are available. For more information, click here.
Destination Iowa
Destination Iowa grant program is designed to bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s communities and attract visitors and new residents to the state. Destination Iowa funds will be awarded to cities, counties and non-profit organizations investing in vertical infrastructure to create or expand existing primary destinations. Pre-applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until May 15, 2025, with full application due by July 15, 2025.
Inspire Iowa Cultural Tourism Grant
Inspire Iowa Cultural Tourism Grant program is accepting new applications on a rolling basis. This program supports a limited number of highly visible and high-impact arts, culture and heritage events, performances, productions or exhibitions that attract new visitors and showcase Iowa as a cultural tourism destination. Learn more and apply by June 30, 2025.
City of West Union Revolving Loan Fund
Purpose: The purpose of the City of West Union’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is to provide “gap” financing to new and expanding businesses for which credit is not otherwise available on terms and conditions, which permit completion and/or the successful operation of proposed business activities.
Eligible Projects: Any business improvement or start-up project in the City of West Union is an eligible project. Project activities which can be funded with RLF funds include, but are not limited to: land acquisition, site preparation, building acquisition, building construction, building remodeling, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, and working capital for business start-up and expansion activities.
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West Union Main Street Chamber Revolving Loan Fund
Purpose: The West Union Main Street Chamber Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) funds are available to provide financial assistance to start-ups or expansions to small businesses in West Union.
Eligible Projects: The creation of jobs is a fundamental consideration. Applicants eligible for RLF funds include, but are not limited to, individuals, partnerships, businesses, corporations, and non-profit organizations. Municipalities and county governments are ineligible applicants.
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Volunteer Recognition
Anessa Jones
Anessa Jones
Anessa, originally from Hawkeye, is a proud mother of three – celebrating her youngest graduating from NFV High School this month – and a grandmother to an active little granddaughter. Professionally, many know Anessa from Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank, where she serves as a Business Relationship Manager and has dedicated nearly 30 years, starting right back in high school!
Beyond her work, Anessa is deeply woven into the fabric of Fayette County through numerous volunteer roles and activities:
Fayette County 4-H: She's a passionate leader for the Windsor Sparkplugs 4-H club (having started as a Clover Kid Leader years ago) and actively helps during the County Fair at the Clover Café and Exhibit Hall.
Fayette County Fair: You can often find her assisting with grandstand events during fair week.
Fayette County Speedway: She enjoys spending Friday nights working or watching the races.
Community Life: Anessa attends Holy Name Church here in West Union and even serves at Sips and Savors in St. Lucas during the winter months. She loves spending time outdoors camping, kayaking, and enjoying campfires with family and friends.
Anessa joined the West Union Main Street Chamber in January 2024 and quickly stepped up into key leadership positions. She currently serves as our dedicated Treasurer and is an active member of the Design Committee.
Anessa's commitment to our community is truly remarkable, and we are incredibly grateful for her contributions and leadership within the Chamber. Thank you, Anessa!
Get Involved
Join the Promotion Committee and Create Memorable Experiences in West Union!
Do you want to be part of the excitement that brings our community together? The West Union Main Street Chamber is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our Promotion Committee, led by chair Zach Smith!
The Promotion Committee plays a key role in re-establishing West Union as a vibrant place for everyone. This involves:
Sparking community excitement and involvement.
Organizing and executing popular events.
Promoting local businesses.
Creating a positive image of West Union.
Key Events:
The Promotion Committee coordinates a variety of beloved community events, including:
Trunk or Treat: A safe and fun Halloween event for families, bringing together businesses and community members for trick-or-treating and games.
Miracle on Vine Street: A magical holiday shopping experience featuring unique gifts, Santa Claus, cookie decorating, a toy drive, hayrides, live music, and community spirit.
Playin' on the Plaza Music Series: (As previously mentioned)
West Union Block Party: (As previously mentioned)
Miss West Union Program: A program that selects a community ambassador and awards a college scholarship.
Volunteer Opportunities:
We need help with various tasks related to these events, such as:
Event planning and organization.
Event setup and execution.
Marketing and promotion (social media, flyers, etc.).
Securing sponsorships.
Logistics and coordination.
Working directly with the community during events.
Benefits of Volunteering:
Make a direct impact on West Union's vibrancy and community spirit.
Meet new people and connect with residents and business owners.
Gain valuable experience in event planning, marketing, and community engagement.
Contribute your skills and talents to a fun and rewarding cause.
Be a part of creating cherished memories for families and individuals.
Work alongside dedicated community members like Zach Smith to make a difference.
Meeting Information:
The Promotion Committee meets monthly on the second Wednesday from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM.
Get Involved!
If you're passionate about West Union and want to help make our community even better, please contact the West Union Main Street Chamber office to learn more about volunteering with the Promotion Committee. We'd love to have you on board!