Chamber endures through pandemic

Even though the pandemic is still influencing parts of the country and cases are still reported in Union County, Creston Chamber of Commerce representatives were proud of how the town has worked through all of the related issues.

“It’s definitely been a challenge,” said outgoing chamber President Chris Lane Tuesday during the chamber’s 82nd annual meeting at Supertel Inn and Conference Center. “We have to think outside the box to get through the time we are in.”

Lane said it was “eye opening” from the perspective of the chamber to see how the town and chamber members operated since March 2020. He encouraged the audience to remain positive.

“It’s too easy to talk about the other,” he said.

Chamber Executive Director Ellen Gerharz saw a positive through the pandemic from volunteers at the visitor’s center. Even though the center delayed its opening this year until June, she was appreciative of those who wanted to volunteer. The center had visitors from 10 different states.

Creston Mayor Pro Tem Richard Madison Jr. spoke for Mayor Gabe Carroll who was unable to attend. Madison relayed the mayor’s message.

Carroll called the city a “progressive, dynamic community,” and was impressed with the additions and improvements to the town over the past year. Other than noting places like Hot Air Brewing, Willy’s and Brick and Bell, the mayor noted how the $1 million facade project to Uptown Creston has been just one of the improvements to the part of town. Madison said anticipation is great for the renovation of the McKinley Park Aquatic Center and the voters’ approval last week of improvements at McKinley Lake.

The message also included the city’s tax abatement incentive for multi-residential properties.

Creston’s volunteer, youth and citizen of the year winners were also recognized. Avery Fuller, a Creston High senior, was chosen for his contributions through various school activities and as a Boy Scout, including being named an Eagle Scout.

“Give back to the Christmas Basket,” he said after accepting the award.

Held annually, Creston Boy Scouts organize donating, non-perishable foods for Creston families in need during the holidays. Those items can be left at Hy-Vee, Fareway and Walmart in Creston. Financial donations can be left at the Creston News Advertiser, 501 W. Adams St. or mailed to PO Box 126 in Creston.

Steve Francis was named volunteer of the year. His work has ranged from cleaning up Pioneer Cemeteries across the county to improvements at facilities at the Union County Historical Village.

“There’s lots of good role models,” Francis said, noting the past recipients sitting in the audience. “It’s been a pleasure.”

Dick Anderson was named citizen of the year for his volunteer work at hospice, Creston Community Betterment Foundation, Southern Prairie Family Fitness Center and others.

“Support Creston,” he said. “Keep improving the standard of living.”

Chamber officers for 2022 were approved: President, Karen Berry, Bunn-O-Matic; first Vice President, Darin Goins, Walmart Vision Center; second Vice President, Bruce Pearson, Pearson Family Funeral Services; treasurer, Adam Snodgrass, Iowa State Savings Bank; past President, Lane, Hartsock Insurance Services and Carter Agency.

Board members nominated for a three-year term were Danna Buls, MATURA; Tori Hanson, HF Nutrition/Hanson Fitness; Loretta Harvey, Harvey Law Office; Caitlyn Maitlen, Southwestern Community College; Josh Thompson, Vanmark Equipment.

Retiring board members: Elizabeth Green, Green Accounting and Tax; Austin Smith, Garden and Associates; Kyle Huck, Vanmark Equipment; Tyra Stull, Everystep Visiting Nurses.

Incoming chamber President Berry was enthusiastic starting her term as the chamber had 14 new business members join and the help for chamber projects.

“Our volunteers have made this a better place to live,” he said.