Chamber awards members during annual banquet

There were several chamber-member businesses recognized during this year’s Monticello Area Chamber of Commerce Member Celebration & Annual Banquet. 

The annual event was held on Jan. 29 at the Monticello Eagles Club. 

Chamber Board President Chris Brokaw performed the duty of emcee, with assistance from vice presidents Jared Lasley and Jake Thompson. 

“Board members serve a vital role in the life of the chamber, ensuring the viability of our organization,” said Brokaw. 

Recognizing two new board members, those who make up the board include: Brokaw, Lasley, Thompson, Maureen Gronstal, Monica Gray, Angie Meyer, Ashley Faust, Lisa Folken, and Rae Ann Manternach. Manternach and Gronstal are the two new members. 

Retiring board members Mark Spensley and Denise Nealson received certificates for their years of service. 

Brokaw also thanked Chamber Director Jan Hoag for her dedication. 

“Jan works under the chamber board’s direction to plan, organize, coordinate, and direct the chamber,” said Brokaw. “She brings an enthusiasm and energy to all she’s involved in as we continue to strive to meet the needs of our members in the areas of economic development, member services, and community development.” 

Thanks to the chamber’s “Shop Smart. Shop Local. Shop Small.” campaign, over the past three years, $55,040 has been purchased and spent locally via Chamber Bucks. Five chamber member businesses have been responsible for close to $30,000 of that total: Polo Custom Products, Monticello Nursing and Rehab, Citizens State Bank, Spahn & Rose Lumber Company, and Freese Motors. 

Multiple Community Service Awards were handed out, covering new construction, renovations, community services, and economic development. 

The City of Monticello received an award for construction and community revitalization for Willow Trail, N. Sycamore Street Reconstruction Project, and bringing the fountain back to life. 

Accepting the award were Council member Tom Yeoman and City Administrator Doug Herman. 

BE Strong Fitness & Yoga received an award for community services and bringing back and reviving the Panther Prowl. Accepting the award was BE owner Andrea Hall. 

Bradley & Riley, PC law firm received an award for economic development. Accepting the award was employee Maureen Gronstal. 

“When you think about economic development, it doesn’t have to be new buildings or the addition of new staff,” said Brokaw. “Sometimes it’s simply continuing what’s already been created in order to retain jobs and keep services in your community.” 

Bradley & Riley took over for Shimanek, Shimanek & Bowman law firm. 

Frontier Feeds received an award for economic development as well. New owners Jim and Cathy Heavens accepted the honor. 

Jim Heavens said when someone like himself looks to buy a business in any community, the one thing to look for is how successful the business community is. “Frontier Feeds is a very successful business in a very successful business community,” praised Heavens. “It’s a great place to do business.” 

Cobblestone Inn & Suites also received a Community Pride Award for economic development. Accepting was manager Jennifer Hewitt. Ownership of the hotel changed from Boulders to Cobblestone. 

The Prescription Shoppe and Family Chiropractic were honored for renovations to both businesses. Linda Nightingale and Erin Dietz accepted on behalf of Prescription Shoppe; Melissa Carstensen accepted for Family Chiropractic. 

“We thank Monticello for your support over the years,” said Nightingale. “We appreciate it very much.” 

WIN-Monticello, Amanda Hackney and Melissa Ehrisman, received the final award of the night for community pride and community services. WIN has created several events that brought the community together last year: Relay For Life, Monti Days, and Christmas Tree Walk. 

Brokaw also honored the chamber ambassadors for their support of the chamber. In 2019, the ambassadors visited more then 30 businesses. Ambassadors Kimberly Kremer and Sandy Moats were recognized for their 10 years of volunteer service. Ambassadors Judy Tuetken and Angie McDonough were honored for perfect attendance and never missing a single ambassador visit in 2019. 

To find out how to become a chamber member, contact the chamber at 319-465- 5626 or visit Hoag at 204 E. First St., inside City Hall.