Tag Archives: Iowa Business

Julien Dubuque International Film Festival Closing film ‘High & Outside : a baseball noir’

DUBUQUE, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- High and Outside, LLC announces "High & Outside : a baseball noir" film is the Closing film at the Julien International Film Festival in Dubuque, Iowa where "Field Of Dreams" was filmed. Moviemaker magazine named it "One of the 25 coolest film festivals in the World."

"High & Outside" is about a minor league baseball player, Phil Harding, who takes desperate measures to fight off the almost certain end to his dream in the big leagues, which threatens to wreck his already fragile family life. The Chicago Tribune says, "This film will stay will you forever."

The film has been nominated for Best Screenplay & Film at the prestigious Raindance Film Festival in London & Austin Film Festival and recently at Cinequest Film Festival. The opening to the film was shot at Lewis and Clark Park, home of the real life "Sioux City Explorers" of the American Association Independent Baseball league in Iowa.

It features Golden Globe nominee Geoffrey Lewis in his last starring role as Phil's domineering father, baseball legend Len Harding. Phil Donlon plays his son, Phil Harding. Joining them is Ernie Hudson (Grace & Frankie) as Phil's manager, Lindsey Haun (True Blood) as Phil's wife, Jason Richter (Free Willy) as Phil's best friend, David Yow (The Jesus Lizard) as Lewis' caregiver, Eddie Jemison (Chicago Med) as Sal, and David Proval (Everyone Loves Raymond) as Don.

"High & Outside" is Director Evald Johnson's second feature. Johnson comes from non-scripted TV, along with Producers John Cook and Ellen Philips. Johnson grew up the son of his once beloved and then befallen MLB father Tim Johnson, which inspired "High & Outside : a baseball noir." Dan O'Dair wrote the screenplay. Music score by Alexander Hacke.

Screening date: Sunday, April 29, 2018.
Screening time: 6:30 p.m.
Screening location: Phoenix Theatres. Kennedy Mall, 555 John F Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, IA 52002. MATURE AUDIENCES.

Q&A with Phil Donlon immediately following.

TICKETS: http://julienfilmfest.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/highoutside

Website: https://www.highandoutside.com/

Twitter: @highandoutmovie @JulienFilmFest

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highandoutsidemovie/

High and Outside, LLC announces "High & Outside : a baseball noir" film is the Closing film at the Julien International Film Festival in Dubuque, Iowa where "Field Of Dreams" was filmed. Moviemaker magazine named it "One of the 25 coolest film festivals in the World."

Related link: https://www.highandoutside.com/

Community Bank Helps Foster Future Leaders with Support of ‘Leader In Me Program’

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Clarke County State Bank, through the John T. Vucurevich Foundation, continues to support Clarke Elementary School as an official school in "The Leader in Me" program. Since 2012, CCSB has been a strong contributor to the program providing the base funding for its launch with foundation grants and bank donations.

Collaborating with Randy Bolton, Clarke Elementary's Assistant Principal on the integration and promotion of the program and making sure resources are available for the kids involved was the basis for the success that has been achieved.

"When we first applied for the Leader in Me program grant in 2011, it was our goal to increase our support of Clarke Community Schools through the Covey program," said Dave Selene, Bank President. "Providing the kids in our community access to these leadership skills has shown impressive results - from better grades and success rates to students taking part in leadership roles throughout the community."

Based on the Franklin Covey book "Seven Habits of Highly Successful People," The Leader in Me is a program designed specifically for elementary students. The program teaches students important life skills that they can utilize every day in the hallways and classrooms, boosting their independence and self-confidence.

The Seven Habits teach students to take initiative in life and responsibility for their choices, how to set life goals, how best to prioritize the week's tasks, to strive for a win-win solution in all relationships, to understand and be understood, to combine the strengths of the group for the benefit of all, and that renewing resources, energy and health is essential for success. By starting in Elementary school, this program provides life-long "habits" and processes to stay organized and to be successful in all business and personal relationships.

"This was a huge undertaking for a school our size," said Randy Bolton, Clarke Elementary School's Assistant Principal. "With CCSB's support we were able to build the core processing language these kids need to succeed as they move on through middle school and high school."

At Clarke Elementary, students are given leadership roles and responsibilities in the classroom. This teaches the students to be invested in the classroom and that their choices can truly affect their school experience. Students are afforded the opportunity to feel an ownership in their school and their own education through setting their own academic, social and attendance goals.

Clarke County State Bank, through the John T. Vucurevich Foundation, secured a grant of $33,000 to fund The Leader in Me program at Clarke Elementary. CCSB has been a consistent advocate of developing leaders in Osceola and Clarke County who will use those skills to better their local communities.

The Leader in Me continues to equip students with the self-confidence and life skills necessary to be successful today and well into the future. For more information about The Leader in Me, contact Clarke Elementary Principal Jill Kiger or Assistant Principal Randy Bolton.

For more information, you can go to https://www.clarkebank.com/ or follow Clarke County State Bank on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Clarke-County-State-Bank-171725632886859. You can also contact the bank directly at: 641-342-6581 or email: info@clarkebank.com.

Clarke County State Bank (CCSB), through the John T. Vucurevich Foundation, continues to support Clarke Elementary School as an official school in "The Leader in Me" program. Since 2012, CCSB has been a strong contributor to the program providing the base funding for its launch with foundation grants and bank donations.

Related link: https://www.clarkebank.com/

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Scheduled to Honor Veterans at Clarke County Freedom Rock Dedication

MURRAY, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Clarke County, Iowa's favorite daughter, Governor Kim Reynolds will join hundreds of community members, leaders and veterans in a ceremonial dedication of Clarke County's Freedom Rock. On Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., the latest installment by Freedom Rock painter, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, will be the site of a Veteran's Day celebration and dedication. Those in attendance will hear from Governor Reynolds, along with local leadership, military officials, and community members from throughout south-central Iowa.

The dedication ceremony will be held at the recently constructed Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall, located at the Murray Cemetery off Highway 34 and County Highway R16.

Jason Gibbs, member of the Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall Committee said the program should last about 30 minutes, and guests are invited to lunch at the Murray High School following the program.

Seating will be limited, so guests are encouraged to arrive early, use the shuttle services available from Murray, Osceola, and the Bunn Manufacturing locations and to bring their own lawn chairs.

About the Clarke County Freedom Rock:

Sorensen began painting the original Freedom Rock, located north of Greenfield, Iowa, in 1999 after being inspired by the movie "Saving Private Ryan."

His original rock, which was painted with a new design each Memorial Day, quickly garnered local, regional and national recognition. Sorensen soon decided to spread the message of the Freedom Rock by committing to painting a Freedom Rock in each of Iowa's 99 counties and beyond. According to TheFreedomRock.com Web site, the Clarke County Freedom Rock is 67th of 68 current honorary displays.

Since Sorensen designs each rock to represent the military members and history of each county, Sorensen and the Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall committee started conversations in the fall of 2015 to brainstorm ideas and themes for the rock being dedicated on Saturday.

"That usually means finding specific veterans," Sorensen said while working on another Freedom Rock in Cresco. "We landed on killed in action. That's why the front side of that (rock) is a gold star family member clutching a flag that was given to them and the ghost of the fallen soldier touching her."

The front face of the Clarke County Freedom Rock also features a quote from Abraham Lincoln.

The back face of the Clarke County Freedom Rock, facing the Honor Wall, features illustrations of Maxton Daniel, Raymond Harris, George Horton, Herschel Oehlert and Bert Keeler - Clarke County residents who were killed in action.

The west side of the rock features a large red bull logo, signifying the 34th Infantry Division, which Highway 34 is named after.

"There was a guy from Garner, Iowa, driving by and he saw that red bull's face," Gibbs said. "It's got great history. This guy's dad was in the 34th Infantry Division. That was something Bubba added and thought would be appropriate. I'm so glad he did. That's a big deal to tens of thousands of people."

The Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall:

Constructed behind the Freedom Rock is the Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall, which gives individuals the opportunity to have a veteran's name engraved into plaques placed on the wall. To date, the Honor Wall has plaques representing over 450 veterans from Clarke County and surrounding areas. The Honor Wall is not limited to veterans who lived in Clarke County.

Gibbs said the committee wanted to give everyone an opportunity to have their veteran recognized on the wall, especially since there will be people from all over the country visiting the Freedom Rock and Honor Wall.

Plaques for the Honor Wall can be purchased by contacting Gibbs at 641-414-1117.

Governor Reynolds and Clarke County:

Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, has a special connection with the community in Clarke County. A southern Iowa native, Reynolds started her political career serving four terms as the Clarke County Treasurer before moving on to the Iowa Senate representing district 48 in 2008. In 2011, Governor Terry Branstad hand-picked Reynolds as Lieutenant Governor where she served until Branstad's departure in 2016.

For more information on the Clarke County Freedom Rock Project and the Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall, contact Jason Gibbs Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall Committee at 641-414-1117.

Learn more about Clarke County at: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Drone Video footage of the Clarke County Freedom Rock site can be found at: https://vimeo.com/241939685

Video and photos provided by Andrew Clark and SPOKE Communications, LLC.

Clarke County, Iowa's favorite daughter, Governor Kim Reynolds will join hundreds of community members, leaders and veterans in a ceremonial dedication of Clarke County's Freedom Rock. On Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., the latest installment by Freedom Rock painter, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, will be the site of a Veteran's Day celebration and dedication. Those in attendance will hear from Governor Reynolds, along with local leadership, military officials, and community members from throughout south-central Iowa.

Related link: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Southern Iowa Mayor Issues Life-Changing Challenge to His Community

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- How often are you asked, "How far would you go for what you need?" Would you ever answer, "Across the entire state?" That's exactly what Thomas Kedley, Mayor of Osceola in Southern Iowa, has challenged himself to do through Operation Recreation.

A run across the entire state of Iowa certainly takes serious commitment, but, true leadership also takes commitment - and Mayor Kedley understands that. These days, it's not just the duties as Mayor, coach, educator, and new father that Kedley focuses on, but how to harness the success of his own personal evolution from overweight teenager to a healthy, passionate leader of a growing community that finds itself in desperate need of its own health and wellness guidance.

Osceola, Iowa is a sleepy manufacturing city in the heart of south central Iowa. The people work hard and, as Mayor, Kedley wants to see their hard work pay off. In 2016, Clarke County Iowa, of which Osceola is the county seat, was ranked 98th out of all 99 counties in Iowa for health and wellness. This news, received shortly after his election, shook Mayor Kedley to the core -- literally.

"Growing up as an overweight kid in Iowa, I know the struggles families face when it comes to the availability of health and wellness options," Kedley stated. "If it weren't for the local Rec Center where I grew up, who knows where my life would be today."

Tipping the scales at over 300 pounds by age 17, young Thomas Kedley had to cut weight to wrestle as a heavyweight in high school. His blood pressure was equal to that of people twice his age and his knowledge of nutritional values was based on what he received through subsidized school lunches and quick meals at home.

Once Thomas had a public facility to go to on a regular basis, and through the support and education from around his community, he started his path to wellness. While it didn't happen overnight, Mayor Kedley now works daily on his health and, at almost half his heaviest weight, considers his life saved and the best it has ever been.

Elected in 2015, one of the first items Mayor Kedley had on his agenda was the development of a new Recreation Center for the City of Osceola. Currently without public fitness facilities, the community is forced to share time and space with the middle school, the high school and their sports teams. This, for a growing community, has become quite a challenge and consequently a detriment to the school's aging facilities.

"I understand the challenges working families face when it comes to being healthy," said Kedley. "Not everyone is able to join a club, hire a personal trainer, or participate in organized sports. That's why we need to provide low-cost, year-round public access to the building blocks of good health and an improved quality of life."

Moving quickly on his plan, Kedley, his wife Becca and other leaders in the community established Operation Recreation, a non-profit dedicated to raising funds needed to build a recreation center capable of supporting the thriving community. It's the team's goal to have funding enough to break ground and start development as soon as 2018 with council approval.

"That's where the challenge developed," said Kedley. "To get shovels in the ground on a timeline this community needs, my goal is for Operation Recreation to raise over $250,000 by the end of the summer. If we can do it, I'll run the entire state of Iowa, from the Minnesota border to the Missouri border, to show my gratitude."

While Kedley knows he can count on the dedication to the Rec Center from his friends and family, his associates, and those throughout the community, his hope is also to raise awareness for health and wellness across the state of Iowa. From townships to cities around the state, Kedley knows the challenge rural Iowa faces keeping health and wellness as a priority mindset.

By issuing this life-changing challenge, he hopes his personal evolution and success will impact and motivate others to do the same.

To donate to Operation Recreation, go to http://www.OperationRecreation.org or you can contact Mayor Thomas Kedley directly at (563) 249-1330, email him at kedleyt@gmail.com.

For additional information on Operation Recreation or the Osceola rec center program, you can contact Mayor Kedley or Ty Wheeler, Osceola City Administrator at: Osceola City Hall, 115 N Fillmore St, Osceola, IA 50213, phone: 641-342-2377 or email twheeler@osceolaia.net

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/17-0503s2p-Thomas-Kedley-300dpi.jpg

*Photo Caption: As a high school senior, Kedley weighed in at over 300 LBS. His commitment to a healthy future for Osceola stems from personal experience.

How often are you asked, "How far would you go for what you need?" Would you ever answer, "Across the entire state?" That's exactly what Thomas Kedley, Mayor of Osceola in Southern Iowa, has challenged himself to do through Operation Recreation.

New Tech Advisory Board Helps Launch Career Academy Program in Rural Iowa

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- 2017 marks the inaugural year for the Clarke Community Schools Career Academy program in the rural town of Osceola, Iowa. School administration, instructors, and local businesses have set forth a program focused on helping local students build a deeper understanding of how their education is integrated into future career options as well as learning the skills needed for trades available outside "traditional" secondary education tracks.

Education trends and academic planning have evolved a great deal throughout the past decade. With funding for Iowa public schools becoming more limited* (*note:1) and costs for student administration continually on the rise, manipulating the models in which schools can best affect the learning for each student has forced participants to innovate and grow or suffer. Programs implemented throughout the 90's and 2000's have shown to be less effective* (*note:2) on student preparation, and for smaller communities like Osceola, this comes as a particularly tough challenge.

These types of programs continue to force school administrators as well as teachers and parents to find alternative answers to educating their students by moving student and curriculum focus from rote test score achievement and class rankings to a more "hands-on" approach, offering career-focused programming for students from kindergarten through high school.

"While we understand testing is an integral part of benchmarking and measuring progress for our students and faculty, it can't be the sole curriculum focus for a learning child," explained Steve Seid, Clarke Community Schools' (CCS) Superintendent. "Creating a better understanding of how specific coursework is applied in real-world scenarios builds on the achievement of the students, encouraging a deeper engagement and commitment to a future-focused perspective."

A policy research study performed by the National Council of Teachers of English* (*note:3) found results of standardized or high-stakes testing not only affects the nature of how instructors administer course information, but also narrows curriculum and limits student learning. Much of the information in the study led researchers to suggest policy changes that include diversifying assessments for student achievement as well as helping the students understand how the testing functions in determining future successes and opportunities.

"That's where our Career Academy really hits," said Jean Bahls, CCS Curriculum Director, "We realize not all kids will be college-bound. Some see that financially and logistically impossible. But through this Career Academy, students can discover a broader world beyond the halls of Clarke Community Schools and have the opportunity to prepare for it."

Local businesses and associations have answered the call for support of the Clarke Community Schools Career Academy. With connections fostered through Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC), the administration and Mr. Dave Lydon, the Industrial Tech Courses Instructor, an Industrial Tech Advisory Board - the first of such advisory boards planned for the Career Academy program - has been assembled to start the development of a system for helping students prepare for careers in the industrial sector. With that, the board will also work with the school, administrators, and instructors on procuring modern equipment and teaching the skills needed to be successful in the trades.

"With the District taking on all the challenges associated with the Career Academy, the CCDC wanted to facilitate ongoing communication between the business community and the District Staff," said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the CCDC. "As we reached out to the business community for membership in this first Advisory Board, we found a real willingness to participate in this very important process."

Clarke Schools' Career Academy Industrial Tech Advisory Board members are:
* Susan Miller - Altec, Inc. (www.Altec.com).
* Dave Opie - Clarke Electric Cooperative (www.cecnet.net).
* Jason A Gibbs - Clarke Electric Cooperative (www.cecnet.net).
* Joe Greving - Iowa Steel (www. IowaSteelFabrication.com).
* Dan Zielke - Hormel Foods (www.HormelFoods.com).
* Kerry Richardson - Miller Products, Co. (www. MillerProductsCo.com).
* James Rawson - Paul Mueller Company (www.PaulMueller.com).
* Tom Kober - Salford Group (www.SalfordGroup.com).
* Doug Hamilton - Simco Drilling Equipment, Inc. (www.SimcoDrill.com).
* Dave Lyden - Clarke Community Schools (www.clarke.k12.ia.us).
* Jean Bahls - Clarke Community Schools (www.clarke.k12.ia.us).
* William Trickey - CCDC (www.clarkecountyiowa.com).

As members of the Clarke Community Schools Industrial Tech Advisory Board, their input, support, and experience will help Clarke Community Schools facilitate and foster a deeper understanding of future career options and skills for trades available outside secondary education. The success of the Career Academy program hinges on full, community-wide engagement and support. With school administrators, staff, and students on board as well as a diversified group of local Osceola and Southern Iowa businesses lending their knowledge and expertise, the future of the program looks bright and poised for growth.

If you would like more information on the Clarke Community Schools Career Academy program or have questions or comments, please contact Steve Seid, Superintendent, or Jean Bahls, Curriculum Director for Clarke Community Schools at 800 N Jackson St. Osceola, IA, 50312 or call (641) 342-6505.

1: Des Moines Register, "After Contentious Words, Iowa State Senate Passes 1.1 Percent K-12 School Aid Increase" - http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2017/02/02/after-contentious-words-iowa-senate-passes-11-percent-k-12-school-aid-increase/97384150/

2: National Education Association, "Parents and Educators to Lawmakers: Testing is Not Learning!" - http://neatoday.org/2015/03/12/parents-educators-lawmakers-testing-not-learning/

3: National Council of Teachers of English. "How Standardized Tests Shape - and limit - Student Learning" [PDF-STUDY] http://www.ncte.org/library/NCTEFiles/Resources/Journals/CC/0242-nov2014/CC0242PolicyStandardized.pdf {http://www.ncte.org/}

2017 marks the inaugural year for the Clarke Community Schools Career Academy program in the rural town of Osceola, Iowa. School administration, instructors, and local businesses have set forth a program focused on helping local students build a deeper understanding of how their education is integrated into future career options as well as learning the skills needed for trades available outside "traditional" secondary education tracks.

Heritage Group Named Des Moines Metro’s Fastest-Growing Company on Inc. Magazine’s Top 5000 List for 2016

DES MOINES, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Heritage Group in Des Moines, Iowa, has been identified as the #1 Top Environmental Service Company and the #2 Top Iowa Company for 2016, according to Inc. Magazine's 2016 annual 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Companies. In addition to these honors, Heritage Group was also listed as #573 on the list, boasting an astounding 683 percent three-year revenue growth.

"In addition to ranking so high in Iowa, as well as nationally, Heritage Group was listed by Inc. 5000 as the fastest-growing janitorial company in the U.S.," Heritage Group CEO Greg Theroux said. "This outstanding recognition indicates we are building a company that has become known as a leader in the janitorial services industry."

The Inc. 5000 list represents a unique look at the most successful companies among America's independent small businesses. Companies such as Microsoft, Dell, Domino's Pizza, Pandora, Timberland, LinkedIn, Yelp, Zillow and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees of the Inc. 5000.

Heritage Group, which is comprised of Heritage Building Maintenance and Heritage Microbial Control LLC, is a central Iowa-based commercial janitorial company dedicated to providing superior contract custodial services through the use of the most advanced products and technologies available. Theroux founded Heritage Group in Des Moines just over five years ago after returning to Des Moines with more than 30 years' experience leading janitorial /building maintenance companies in the Midwest and on the West Coast.

Joseph Johnson, President of Heritage Group, joined the company in 2014 after nearly 20 years leading and consulting with janitorial companies in the Des Moines metro area and throughout the Country. Once competitors in the market, Theroux and Johnson have melded their vision and passion for service into success in the fast-paced janitorial industry. The company is led by core values that include a deep commitment to caring for and building value in the lives of both clients and employees. It has found a welcoming and responsive home among both familiar and new networks in the Des Moines area.

"We are so thankful for the many building owners and managers that have trusted us and allowed us the opportunity to make a difference in the health of their employees, customers and visitors," Johnson said. "Our rollout of Science-Proven Healthy Cleaning in 2012 has received such an incredible reception in the Greater Des Moines commercial real estate market. We have only scratched the surface of the many applications for our comprehensive approach to cleaning that focuses on the indoor health and safety of buildings. We just want to make a difference in the health and well-being of the people in the communities we serve."

To learn more about Heritage Group and Science-Proven Healthy Cleaning(R), contact Greg Theroux at greg@heritagebldg.com, Joe Johnson at joe@heritagebldg.com, call 515-868-0842 ext. 202, or visit us online at http://heritagebldg.com/ or http://heritagemicrobialcontrol.com/.

Heritage Group in Des Moines, Iowa, has been identified as the #1 Top Environmental Service Company and the #2 Top Iowa Company for 2016, according to Inc. Magazine's 2016 annual 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Companies. In addition to these honors, Heritage Group was also listed as #573 on the list, boasting an astounding 683 percent three-year revenue growth.

Free Land and Incentives for Builders Looking to Develop in Osceola, Iowa

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- As part of a new housing development initiative, Osceola, Iowa's Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) is offering home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects as well as reimbursements on interest for construction loans for a 12-month period. The CCDC launched the Zero-Cost Development initiative in an effort to capitalize on the recent growth trends and development throughout south central Iowa. While tax abatements and other incentives are offered throughout the state, the concept of Zero-Cost Development offers builders and developers a bigger opportunity for establishing profitable programs throughout Osceola.

Even with Iowa's housing bubble leveling out and market prices becoming steady, builders are still seeing costs of materials and equipment climb. Tax abatements offered to buyers still leave builders struggling to cover the gap costs between development and sale of the homes. If a home sits on the market longer than 60 or 90 days, many builders can see a considerable loss of revenue and even end up losing profit altogether on the development. By offering the builders and developers Zero-Cost, shovel-ready land, the initial investment for the building is considerably lower and gives an advantage back to the builder before the sale. By also providing reimbursements for construction loans over a 12-month period, the builder can better manage their investment risks - enabling faster return and reinvestment of moneys for additional development.

Over the last decade, Osceola and Clarke County's population and workforce have steadily grown at a time when many rural areas are losing residents in droves. With a population of over 5,000, Osceola offers over 4,400 non-farm jobs, making it a hub for commerce for southern Iowa counties. As commerce continues to expand, a sense of community is growing and the urgency to build homes to suit the burgeoning workforce has become a priority.

"Development Land in Des Moines, Waukee and Ankeny as well as surrounding communities can cost builders upwards of $80,000 to $200,000 per lot. By offering developers free, shovel-ready lots, they're given the opportunity to build quality homes at an affordable price and pass that savings on to the buyers," Bill Trickey, Executive Director of Clarke County Development Corporation stated. "With Osceola's proximity to metropolitan amenities added to a quality of life you can't find in larger cities, developing in Osceola offers safe neighborhoods for children, a sense of community among neighbors, and peace of mind for growing families."

The goal of the Zero-Cost Development initiative is to encourage an economical connection to an estimated 2,500 commuters in Osceola, helping them become not only a permanent asset to the local workforce but be part of the community as well. Research has shown, when families put down roots in Osceola, their children and generations to follow are likely to remain a part of the community.

"The key is giving them the resources to plant roots," Trickey continued.

Employment opportunities and a quality school district are two of the city's bigger selling points. At just under 1,400 students, the Clarke school district is small but advanced beyond even some suburban Iowa schools. The district recently integrated over 1,500 Chromebooks, offering each student a chance to take this technology home. It's an attractive option for families who'd prefer a smaller district without sacrificing quality of technology and curriculum.

Families in Osceola also benefit from several new recreational developments, including an expanding trail system, city parks, and the future development of a community Recreation Center.

Officials hope the Zero-Cost Development initiative will continue to strengthen the area's neighborhoods, encouraging families to call Osceola home.

If you're a builder who is interested in the Zero-Cost Development initiative and would like to see if your project qualifies, contact Bill Trickey at the Clarke County Development Corporation at info@clarkecountyiowa.com or 641-342-2944.

More information: http://www.clarkecountyiowa.com/.

As part of a new housing development initiative, Osceola, Iowa's Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) is offering home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects as well as reimbursements on interest for construction loans for a 12-month period. The CCDC launched the Zero-Cost Development initiative in an effort to capitalize on the recent growth trends and development throughout south central Iowa.