Table of ContentsArticle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page

From the President’s Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Featured Member of the Month . . . . . . . . . . .4

We’ve Moved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Professional Development Academy . . . . . . .6

Unlocking Your Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

ImpactCR: A Siren Night at the Museum . . . .8

Community Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Economic Alliance Governance Structure 10-11

MyTern Now: Economic Development Update . 12

Public Policy Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Voice at the Capitol: Legislative Update . . . . 14

Energy Efficiency Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Celebration of Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

New Members & Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . 17

January PM Exchange Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

PM Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Conquer the Corridor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

January 2012Volume 81 No 6 (uSPS558-200)

Economic Alliance Report (ISSN 108-50775) is published monthly by the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, 424 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 .

Subscription price of $35 per year is included in an annual membership .

Periodicals postage paid at Cedar Rapids, Iowa .

Postmaster: Send changes to:Economic Alliance Report Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance424 First Ave . NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-1196

President & CEO: Dee BairdEditor: Mallory Mohwinkle

Contact the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance at 319-398-5317 for reprint permission .

Cedar Rapids is one of the top 12 Best Cities for High Paying Jobs, according to Kiplinger . We are ranked #7 because of our below-average unemployment and above-average income growth . (Source: Kiplinger, January 2012)

Cedar Rapids is one of the Best Places for Business & Careers, according to Forbes magazine . Our city is ranked #11 out of the 200 largest metropolitan statistical areas in the U .S ., based on costs, income growth, educational attainment and projected economic growth . (Source: Forbes.com, June 29, 2011)

Cedar Rapids is one of the Names You Need to Know in 2011, according to Forbes magazine . Our city is expected to see employment expand 14 .2% over the next three years . This is the strongest forecast of any metro area in the country with a population over 100,000 . (Source: Forbes.com, October 29, 2010)

NATIONAL RECOGNITION

2 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

From the President’s Desk:

In our process of transforming our organization in 2011, we heard from many customers and broader stakeholders about designing a governance structure that embraced a future that is distinct from our past . The feedback was overwhelming and literally changed the initial proposed governance structure design to the one you will read about today . In this issue of our Economic Alliance Report we highlight the new policy board and innovation council members . We are so pleased to have a strong mix of diversity among our members, from the type of organization, to gender, race, age, career positions and experience .

The Economic Alliance governance structure is designed to ensure we are hearing from our customers and to be strategic about community development . We will do this by focusing on strong central business districts, providing proactive business support by concentrating attention on small and locally-owned businesses and finally a laser focus on economic development through growing and retaining interstate commerce. The final innovation council is our Large Investor Council which is comprised by the 25 largest contributors to the organization . The Policy Board has the overarching executive management and fiduciary responsibility as well as strategic implementation . However, the Policy Board’s strategic direction will be highly influenced by the Innovation Council’s contributions and direction.

Finally, the structure also imposes shorter term limits, designed specifically to allow for our customers to serve in the organization’s structure . This structure truly represents a sophisticated and complex group of organizations and communities that encompass our customer base and is more inclusive than ever before . This will allow greater access to stakeholder’s needs, sharing of innovative ideas, and a vehicle to achieve our vision to become one of the top economic growth regions in the country!

Sincerely,

Dee Baird CEO/President

3FEBRUARY 2012

Featured Member of the Month

February 13 – 17, 2012LunchboxHorizons Meals On Wheels

2nd Annual

Lunch includes...Gourmet Sandwich Kettle Chips

Sliced ApplesCookie

More than just a lunch...a great meal for a great cause. $10 per meal: $5 for your lunch, $5 to feed a homebound senior!

Order at horizonsfamily.org

Purchase 3 or more

and we’ll deliver to your door!

Choose from...

Italian Ciabatta spicy capicola ham,

provolone, and flavorful asiago artichoke dressing

Turkey Club on Focacciasmoked turkey, bacon, provolone

and sun-dried tomato mayo

California Veggiesweet peppers, onions,

broccoli, and kalamata olives tossed in a basil vinaigrette topped with havarti cheese

Questions? Email us: lunchbox@horizonsfamily.org or call us at 319-398-3943 Ext. 1007

Show some L VE to your team this Valentine’s season!

4 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

Well, some of us have moved . As an interim step before our ultimate move to new quarters, the Economic Alliance staff has been co-located into the former Chamber building at 424 First Avenue NE in downtown Cedar Rapids . In addition to the obvious changes for those who used to work in Downtown District offices, there has been quite a bit of internal shuffling of office space and telephone extensions to accommodate the new teams of the Economic Alliance .

If you have go-to staff that you’ve often dealt with, you may want to double-check the phone extensions and e-mail addresses here to make sure you have the most up-to-date contact information . We expect our new structure will make us more customer-friendly than ever, but please bear with us during this transitional time!

Allen Mertaamerta@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1423

Allison Antesaantes@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1422

Dee Bairddbaird@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1420

DeMaris McKeedmckee@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1417

Dennis Hotka319/431 .3461

Dennis Jordandjordan@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1424

Doug Neumanndneumann@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1414

Jeff Rossatejrossate@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1425

Jeff Schambergerjschamberger@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1402

Jill Wilkinsjwilkins@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1400

Joan Bendajbenda@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1416

Julie Stowjstow@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1409

Kelly Slaughterkslaughter@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1411

Lisa Gugelguge@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1401

Mallory Mohwinklemmohwinkle@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1410

Nikki Durhamndurham@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1421

Pam Hinmanphinman@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1415

Quinn Pettiferqpettifer@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1404

Tyanna Stephensontstephenson@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1408

Vanessa Rogers vrogers@cedarrapids .org319/730 .1427

We’ve

Moved!

5FEBRUARY 2012

Inbound Marketing Fundamentals for Local Businesses

Presented by: Chad Gookin Web Content & SEO Strategist, Metro Studios Ed Faber

Business Development Specialist, Metro Studios

Professional Development

Tuesday, March 13

8:00 am to 9:30 am

Economic Alliance Boardroom (former Chamber Boardroom)

$10.00 members $25.00 future members

Selling in the new information age:

Learn how to build your sales funnel and turn website visitors into paying customers . Reach beyond traditional “outbound” methods when expanding your customer base by using more relevant, unique tools discussed in this session . In this academy program, attendees will learn the fundamentals of how to create a sales generating online presence to “get found” by more prospects shopping in your niche and convert a higher percentage into customers .

Ed Faber is a business development specialist with Metro Studios where he works with a variety of eastern Iowa clients providing website development and marketing solutions . He has more than 20 years experience in media advertising sales . He recently completed an inbound marketing training program with Hubspot, an internet marketing company that is the recognized leader this emerging industry .

Chad Gookin is the SEO & Content Strategist at Metro Studios in Hiawatha . He performs a variety of search engine optimization tactics to drive highly relevant traffic to his clients’ websites by ranking well in Google search results . Chad also works with clients to create smart, engaging content that encourages site visitors to take the desired actions . He recently completed an extensive inbound marketing training program through Hubspot, which focuses on proven techniques to generate more sales and qualified leads out of your website traffic.

Wednesday, March 21

12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

Economic Alliance

Boardroom (former

Chamber Boardroom)

FREELunch

will be provided

6 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

Are you a new member business, a new employee of a current member business or want to be updated on your Economic Alliance Membership benefits?

Designed to give you the keys to getting started, Unlocking Your Membership is an orientation to all of our current events, programs and initiatives . Join fellow new members in this informal meeting to learn more about how to take advantage of all aspects of your membership .

Can’t attend? Send a colleague or employee who can!

Unl cking Your Membership

Wednesday, March 21

12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

Economic Alliance

Boardroom (former

Chamber Boardroom)

FREELunch

will be provided

“They’re in tune with what we need.”

Bruce LehrmanCEO, Involta

BANKERS TRUST commercial banker:Pat Deignanprivate banker:Kevin Kingtreasury management:Sara Harrison

“Bankers Trust runs their business the way businesses

should be run. They really work with us to do what’s

right for us, not just what’s right for them. And they

make their decisions locally. If they say they’re going

to do something, they do it.”

221 Third Avenue SE319-896-7777

400 Blairs Ferry Road NE319-221-1230

www.bankerstrust.com

Member FDIC

7FEBRUARY 2012

PLAY HEREShape their future.

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WORKPLACE UNIFORMS & MATS

Cle d simple.

A Siren Night at the Museum with ImpactCR & Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

ImpactCR and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art are teaming up to bring you a night of unique entertainment, mingling and local talent!

Experience the traditional ingredient of the monthly “Siren Wednesday” by enjoying food, beverages and mixing with ImpactCR leaders . Guests will have an open invitation to explore the museum and discover the museum’s latest exhibit “Lure of the Local”—a collection of more than 65 works of art from 40 area artists, showcasing a variety of media, subjects and styles used in modern day pieces . Local artists from the exhibit will be on site to provide inside perspective on their creative process . Patrons can register at the event for a chance to win a 6 party private vault tour .

Thursday, March 1

5:00 pm to 7:00 pmCedar Rapids Museum of Art 410 3rd Avenue SE

Free Admission

No RSVP required

8 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

February Professional Development Academy: Green Workplace 101 Tuesday, February 78:00 AM - 10:00 AMCedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Boardroom

Join us as Sheila shares a smart, comprehensive approach to green business practices that will save money, make you more competitive and improve your brand image .

Sponsored by

ImpactCR Political Parley with Representative Renee SchulteWednesday, February 812:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Visit www .impactcr .org and Live Chat from your desk!

ImpactCR have brought our elected officials to you. The Political Parley is an opportunity for you to ask questions of your elected officials. These online chats will continue semi-monthly throughout the legislative session .

Annual Corridor & Kolache Day at the CapitolWednesday, February 158:00 AM - 5:00 PMState Capitol1007 East Grand AvenueDes Moines, IA 50319

The Annual Kolache Day at the Capitol is a favorite event that has evolved into celebrating all things made in the Corridor . We invite Corridor businesses to participate by donating locally made products to the event . If your business would like to participate in the day’s festivities contact Lisa Guge at 319/730 .1401 or lguge@cedarrapids .org for details .

Sponsored by

Legislative LunchFriday, February 1711:30 AM - 1:00 PMCedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Boardroom

Join us for an opportunity to discuss policies and priority issues for the 2012 Legislative Session . There is no cost to attend this brown bag luncheon, but registration is requested .

Sponsored by

PM ExchangeThursday, February 23Fairfield Suites by Marriott605 32 Avenue SWCedar Rapids, IA 52404

No Registration Required Free to Attend

Community CalendarAs an Economic Alliance member,

businesses can login at www .cedarrapids .org

and submit their own event . Visit www .cedarrapids .org/events to view the numerous events being held by Economic Alliance members

throughout the community .

ImpactCR EventsImpactCR hosts a number of

committee meetings each month . To learn more about the organization’s various committees or find out when the next committee meeting is visit

impactcr .org for details .

For the latest listing of events or to register and pay on-line please visit

www .cedarrapids .org

Community CalendarMarch

ImpactCR Siren Night at the MuseumThursday, March 15:30 PM - 7:30 PMCedar Rapids Museum of Art410 3rd Avenue SECedar Rapids, IA 52401

This month only, Siren Wedneday moves to Thursday for a special event at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art! Join ImpactCR’s Members & Mixers Committee on the first Wednesday of every month for “Siren Wednesday!” Siren Wednesday provides a casual atmosphere for ImpactCR members and friends to network and meet new people .

Conquer the CorridorTuesday, March 68:00 AMCedar Rapids Museum of Art410 3rd Avenue SE

Our community is filled with things to do and ways to get involved, but where do you go to find it all? Join staff and volunteers from the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance as they share their stories of resource triumph through Conquer the Corridor-an interactive presentation designed to get you familiar with everything Corridor .

Sponsored by

D UA N E A R N O L D

9FEBRUARY 2012

Barry Boyer of Van Meter, Inc . has been elected the first board chairman of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance . Lon Olejniczak of Transamerica is the board’s vice chairman . The new ten-member Policy Board named Boyer and Olejniczak during its first board meeting on January 9. The other eight members are: Lydia Brown, Skywalk Group Steve Gray, Gray Venture Partners Nancy Kasparek, U .S . Bank Jeanine Penticoff, Alliant Energy Chuck Peters, Source Media Group Jeff Pomeranz, City of Cedar Rapids John Schnipkoweit, RecBob Ted Townsend, St . Luke’s Hospital

The ten-member board institutes the spirit of the new corporate structure of the Economic Alliance, with board representatives for interstate commerce, central business districts, small business and locally-owned business . The initial Board was approved by the pre-merger boards of the Chamber, Priority One and the Downtown District . Innovation Councils of the Economic Alliance will choose future board members .

“The Economic Alliance is fortunate to have such a talented, committed group of

community leaders willing to step up and serve as the first board,” said President Dee Baird. “We have a lot of work to do, and this is the

right group to keep us focused on our vision of being one of the top economic growth

regions in the country .”

Barry Boyer

Lon Olejniczak

Policy BoardIntroducing our

Governance Structure

10 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

Business Support (B) Barry Boyer Van Meter

(B) Lydia Brown Skywalk Group

Lee Belfield Zins

Theresa Bornbach Business Exchange Center

Mike Esker Coldwell Banker Hedges

Gary Ficken Bimm Ridder

Scott Gasway JP Gasway

Brad Hart Bradley & Riley

Julie Hein Z102 .9

Keith Hindman Metro Video

Tom Hughes Hughes Nursery

Brad Kiburz Primus

Richard Moffitt Marion Mixers

Mike Monnahan Blue Strawberry

Brendan Murphy Guaranty Bank

John Osako Informatics

Paul Phelan Phelan’s Interiors

Bill Prowell Shuttleworth & Ingersoll

Chad Simmons Pendennis

Chris Skogman Skogman

DJ Smith Self-employed Attorney

Heather Smith Friedman de Novo Marketing

Charity Tyler Zach Group

Phil Wasta Tallgrass

Felicia Wyrick Adfinity Marketing

Community Development(B) Chuck Peters

SourceMedia Group

(B) Steve Gray ImOn et al

Jill Ackerman Marion Chamber

Jon Bancks Morgan Stanley

Brian Brandt Principal Financial

Lois Buntz United Way

Ryan Buresh Prairie Soup Co .

Scott Byers Iowa Realty

Karl Cassell Civil Rights Commission

Bill Courter Courter Law

Heather Fleming Van Meter Industrial

Tim Hankewich Orchestra Iowa

Jim Hoffman 2001 Development

Mike Ivester ITC Midwest

Tim Kintner Bankers Trust

Christine Landa Junior Achievement

Robb Loftsgard Wells Fargo

Emily Meyer Ryan Companies

Dana Nichols Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust

Dave Sorg OPN Architects

Pat Stepanek GreatAmerica Leasing

Andy Stoll Seed Here

Cathy Terukina SourceMedia Group

Bill Vernon Simmons Perrine

Bill Vincent CliftonLarsonAllen

Economic Development

(B) John Schnipkoweit RecBob

(B) Lon Olejniczak Transamerica

Dawn Ainger Genova Technologies

John Bloomhall Diamond V

Chris Bright Nordstrom

Ray Brown ESCO Group

Brent Cobb World Class Industries

Jordan Cohen University of Iowa

Rod Dooley Rockwell Collins

Steve Dummermuth Jr . IDG Industries

Mike Felton Genencor

Chuck Hammond Raining Rose

Tom Hayden Shive Hattery

Emily Fritts Schneider Electric

Kim Johnson Kirkwood Community College

Tim Kortemeyer Penford

Bruce Lehrman Involta

Mary Meisterling Alliant

Charlie Rohde King’s Materials

Al Ruffalo RuffaloCODY

Dan Smith Whirlpool

Duane Smith TrueNorth

Mark Thoeny American Profol

TBD City of Cedar Rapids

TBD Commission Eastern Iowa Airport

TBD Interstate Commerce Bus/MEDCO

Large Investor(B) Jeanine Penticoff Alliant Energy

(B) Ted Townsend St . Luke’s Hospital

Larry Helling Downtown SSMID

Jeff Pomeranz City of Cedar Rapids

Tom Hobson Rockwell Collins

Vern Gebhart Alliant Energy

Susan Corrigan Transamerica

Steve Caves US Bank

John Sheehan St . Luke’s Hospital

Mark Long Wells Fargo

Kathryn Kunart MidAmerican

Tim Charles Mercy Medical Center

Jack Evans Hall Perrine Foundation

Ben Rogers Linn County

Chuck Peters SourceMedia Group

Dan Smith Whirlpool

Mick Starcevich Kirkwood Community College

Mike Sundall PCI

Tom Metelmann Quaker/Pepsi Co .

Randy Ramlo United Fire Group

Kyle Skogman Skogman

Gary Streit Shuttleworth & Ingersoll

Roger Stone Simmons Perrine

Joe Trabucco Toyota Financial

Larry Helling Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust

Jeff Beelman Wellmark

Rick Benhart Collins Community Credit Union

Innovation Councils Roster

One of the key features of the Economic Alliance structure is the creation of Innovation Councils that will help connect customers to the organization and ensure broad involvement in the shaping of the strategic focus of the organization .

Four Councils of up to 25 members each will provide input and guidance on the organization’s strategic direction . The Councils also appoint members to the Policy Board, further empowering these groups and ensuring alignment between the Policy Board and the strategic direction given by the Councils . Engagement of such a large number of customers in this way also should

help improve investor communications, as Council members become well-informed messengers for the Economic Alliance .

The initial rosters of the Innovation Councils were approved by the pre-merger organizations late last year based on volunteers recruited during Business Input Sessions and other community outreach last fall . The initial Council members will have staggered terms, ensuring continual rotation of members and new opportunities for others to get involved . If you’re interested, watch for news later this year when we begin seeking volunteers to begin terms in 2013 .

Business Support Council At the root of growing a region is the need to enhance regional and state trade . This council will be represented by individuals who are passionate about issues related to growing and sustaining small business and locally-owned business . At least half of its members must be from companies employing fewer than 25 people, and at least half of its members must be from locally-owned companies .

Community Development CouncilIn order to develop our region, we must focus on strong central business districts, not just in Cedar Rapids but in all communities in the region that have a central business district . This Council will focus on issues related to developing and maintaining core central business districts . At least 75 percent of its members must live or work in central business districts .

Economic Development CouncilIn order to grow our region, we must have growth and expansion of interstate commerce bringing new dollars and investment . This Council will focus on issues related to attracting, retaining and expanding interstate commerce . At least 75 percent of its members must be part of companies that derive the majority of their business from the purchase, sale or exchange of products or services

outside of Iowa .

Large Investor CouncilOur largest customers are important to our financial success, as well as key communicators for the Economic Alliance . This Council will represent the 25 largest financial investors of the Economic Alliance, with initial membership determined by investments of former organizations Priority One, the Cedar Rapids Chamber of Commerce and the Cedar Rapids Downtown District .

Innovation Councils

In a few words...

11FEBRUARY 2012

mvpvideoproduction.com | 319-364-8900

A Sony HVR-S270U 1080P HD Camera,

four CL-655P Softlights,

a Carl Zeiss Vario-SonnarT 1, 6/4, 4 - 52.8 lens

and one refl ector.

In order to successfully grow the region and compete in a global economy, the Corridor has to compete on a local, state, national and international level for talent or workforce . If communities can’t provide an available, affordable, and capable workforce, the local economy will suffer . MyTernNow is a program created to educate young people about career opportunities in the Corridor region . The web site www .myternnow .com, is a quick, easy and cost efficient tool that markets your company and builds a workforce pipeline .

Get Involved:

1 . Create a company profile on the employer directory within the MyTernNow website, www .myternnow .com

2 . Post your company’s internship opportunities

3 . Pass the web site on to your contacts (including friends, family, children, other parents, colleagues, business partners)!

Internship Directory

The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance encourages your business to get involved

today . If you have any questions about MyTernNow please contact DeMaris McKee

at dmckee@cedarrapids .org or call 319/398-5317 .

www.myternnow.com Wednesday, February 15

8:00 am to 5 pmState Capitol

1007 East Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50319

FREE

Wednesday, February 15

8:00 am to 5 pmState Capitol

1007 East Grand Avenue Des Moines, IA 50319

FREE

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Reform

With legislative leaders promising a short session, the opening weeks of the session have seen a lot of activity . The Economic Alliance legislative team has been analyzing various commercial property tax reform bills, partnering with the City of Cedar Rapids to re-ignite support for the Growth Reinvestment Initiative (the means for state support of flood protection) and watching the debate over education reform .

Of our policy agenda items (see www .cedarrapids .org/ advocacy for our complete policy agenda), the issue that has seen the most activity so far has been reform of tax increment financing laws. Several public forums and legislative committee hearings have been held, and Economic Alliance staff has been asked to testify as to the use of tax increment financing in this region. Our answer, in short, is that while we could be open to reasonable improvements in TIF laws, it’s critical that it remain available to us as one of the very few tools in our economic development tool belt .

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a method of reallocating property tax revenues produced as a result of an increase in taxable valuation above a “base valuation” figure within a tax increment area . TIF Districts are created as a means

to maximize property tax dollars within particular areas, in order to pay the cost of public improvement projects (streets, water, sewer, etc .) or to make direct economic development grants or loans to private enterprise as an incentive to locate within the tax increment financing area.

In the Cedar Rapids Metro area, from 2006-2011, TIF was used to create/retain more than 3,000 jobs with an average wage of $23 .79/hr . It leveraged private investment of more than $344 million in new and expanding operations . Within the Cedar Rapids metro area, TIF is typically leveraged for interstate commerce projects, and has proven to be a positive use for our communities . In the metropolitan area, TIF agreements rarely allow for all new increment to be captured, thus providing new increment to flow to traditional taxing bodies (City, County, Schools, etc) . This general policy has allowed for successful use of this tool to the benefit of industry and the communities. In addition, Cedar Rapids traditionally provides TIF in the form of an annual rebate or refund of their taxes based on meeting annual performance measures . This ensures that goals are met, or refunds are not provided . Cedar Rapids is now in the position of having one of the lowest per capita TIF debt ratios in Iowa, contributing to the City of Cedar Rapids receiving a AAA bond rating .

13FEBRUARY 2012

Annual Corridor & Kolache Day at the Capitol

Business leaders are invited to join the Economic Alliance as part of a delegation visiting the Capitol for Annual Corridor & Kolache Day on February 15 . This FREE event offers business leaders an opportunity to take part in a series of meetings, along with a lunch with legislative leaders . These face-to-face meetings allow our region to advocate for important business issues .

This event is also a time to celebrate all things made in the Corridor! We invite Corridor businesses to participate in the festivities by donating your locally manufactured products and goods to Corridor & Kolache Day at the Capitol . If your business would like to participate, please contact Lisa Guge at 319/730 .1401 or lguge@cedarrapids .org for details .

The Economic Alliance plans to play an active role at the Capitol this legislative session, promoting its pro-business policy agenda and helping members with business-specific initiatives . For details on our policy agenda, please contact Doug Neumann at 319/730 .1414 or dneumann@cedarrapids .org .

Legislative UpdateStronger Voice at the CapitolPart of the promise of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance has been a more pro-active and comprehensive public policy strategy. The new governance and staffing structure devote significant attention to accomplishing that.

However, filling new staff positions and allowing the Innovation Councils and Policy Board to develop the strategies and priorities that will drive our public policy approach will take some time .

Time, though, is not a luxury we have when it comes to the Iowa Legislature .

A critical legislative session is underway, and the Economic Alliance needs to be able to represent business interests like an old pro, not an organization in its infancy .

Fortunately, we have the people and a game plan to do exactly that .The Economic Alliance has contracted with two professionals to give us a near-constant presence at the Capitol in Des Moines during the current session . They will work as a team, but they also have distinctly different purposes:

Veteran lobbyist Gary Grant, of Cedar Rapids-based Grant Consulting, will lead our traditional lobbying efforts . He will help develop and execute strategies that help achieve specific aims of Economic Alliance members; inform Economic Alliance staff about significant developments related to its legislative priority list; and suggest advocacy strategies related to the major initiatives list . Grant is a former staffer of former Congressman Jim Leach and has been immersed in a variety of public policy lobbying for the last several years . Grant is particularly in tune with local business and local government issues, with extensive experience related to small business flood recovery.

Heather Armstrong will team with Grant, with a greater focus on education and awareness. It’s an important time for legislators and other stakeholders in state offices to understand what the Economic Alliance is . Armstrong will work to educate them about the Economic Alliance structure, goals and priorities, as well as working to establish and strengthen relationships at the state level . She also will assist in logistical planning that helps Economic Alliance staff and members have productive visits to the Capitol; and attend legislative meetings and functions at which the Economic Alliance should be present . Armstrong has been a long-time board member of the Iowa Finance Authority, and knows the people and places around the Capitol very well . She also has been involved in local party politics and comes from a politically active family that includes her dad, former State Rep . Ro Foege .

Grant and Armstrong both will help identify times when Economic Alliance staff leadership, board members or businesses should raise their voices in Des Moines . President Dee Baird and Executive Vice President Doug Neumann both plan on several trips to Des Moines to work on the Economic Alliance’s pro-growth and pro-development public policy agenda . Businesses that have legislative issues specific to their industry—and on which they would like assistance from the Economic Alliance—can contact Neumann at dneumann@cedarrapids.org.

14 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

Saving Money Through Energy EfficiencyMany people believe that things like death, taxes and high utility bills are inevitable and there’s nothing you can do about them . Not so, says Indian Creek Nature Center . About 15 years ago, the Center converted from incandescent to fluorescent lighting and added occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights off when not needed . Electric consumption—and their energy bill—dropped 41% . “That’s real money we saved, and I did the same thing at my home,” said Nature Center Director Rich Patterson . Thanks to grants from Alliant Energy’s Bright Lights program the Nature Center took efficiency one step further by replacing obsolete lights with modern Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights . “They are bright and pleasant and only use a tiny amount of electricity,” says Patterson . At the same time, the Center replaced older fluorescent tubes with newer, more efficient ones that contain far less mercury.

Patterson says, “Nearly every area business and home can significantly save on utility costs by investing in efficient lighting, insulation, furnaces and appliances.”To demonstrate how readily these changes can be made, the Nature Center will host two workshops in February providing specific information on proven techniques that reduce utility bills .

The workshops are sponsored by the Iowa Energy Center. There is no cost to attend either workshop but pre-registration is required by 4 pm on Thursday, February 9th. Call 319/362.0664 to register.

Visit www.indiancreeknaturecenter.org for details.

WORKSHOPS

Workshop for Homeowners

Saturday, February 112:00 pm to 4:00 pm

To demonstrate changes that will make their homes more energy efficient.

Workshop for Small Business & Nonprofit

Tuesday, February 149:00 am to 3:00 pm

Will give instruction on building management techniques and efficient lighting.

15FEBRUARY 2012

26th Annual Celebration of Agriculture The 26th annual Celebration of Agricultural Dinner will be held on March 13, 2012, at the Cedar Rapids Marriott Hotel . The dinner provides an opportunity for businesses and individuals to recognize and support the economic impact of agriculture in Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa . The dinner is sponsored by the Celebration of Agriculture Committee in conjunction with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, with over 600 persons attending annually .

This year’s speaker is John Phipps, host of the weekly, nationally televised U .S . Farm Report program . John was raised on a six-generation farm in Illinois . After graduating from college and serving in the U .S . Navy, John returned to the family farm in 1975 . John’s been active in county, state and national agricultural organizations for over 30 years . He is a Contributing Editor to Farm Journal and Top Producer magazines with monthly articles providing commentary mixed with humor . John’s presentation is titled “Preparing for a Black Swan Flew .”

John Phipps holds a degree in chemical engineering, studied economics, and served as a submarine nuclear engineer, all of which contribute to his unique perspective on rural culture . His farm of 2,200 acres of corn and soybeans is located in East Central Illinois and has been in the family for seven generations . Since 1994 he has written award-winning humor and commentary for Farm Journal and Top Producer magazines . In August 2005, John became the TV host of US Farm Report . In conjunction with his Farm Journal work, he speaks to farm and rural groups on topics ranging from risk to professional development .

In addition to the keynote speaker this year, the program will include a short presentation by “Farmers Feeding the World,” an initiative launched by the Farm Journal Foundation . Farmers Feeding the World is devoted to two endeavors: putting food and the ability to grow food in the hands of the hungry, and educating the public on the critical importance of sustainable commercial agriculture . The Celebration of Agriculture committee and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance applaud this effort . Visit www .FarmersFeedingtheWorld .org to learn more about their programs .

Tickets for the dinner are $40 each . A reserved table of ten can be purchased for $400 . Contact Lisa Guge at lguge@cedarrapids .org to order tickets .

Tuesday, March 13

Reception 6 pmDinner Program 7 pm

Marriott Hotel Cedar Rapids

$40.00 per ticket

Reservations Required

16 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

Infinite Computing Systems, Inc .425 2nd Street SE Suite 600Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401Tami McIntyre: Sr. Sales ManagerP: 319/297.7530 ext. 250F: 319/297.7540W: www.infinite-usa.com E: tmcintyre@infinite-usa.com

Infinite Computing Systems, Inc. is a Cedar Rapids based global company which develops custom software applications and web content management systems for clients around the world. Infinite is a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner, DotNetNuke Gold Partner and is ISO 9000 and CMMI level 3 certified.

Shores Event Center700 16th Street NE, Suite L100Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402Mindy Seiffert: Event CoordinatorP: 319/521.7287W: www.shoreseventcenter.comE: info@shoreseventcenter.com

Shores Event Center is Cedar Rapids’ newest and most unique venue for weddings, parties, meetings, or events .

Housed in the 100 year old Shores-Mueller building, Shores Event Center opened in September 2011 . This fabulously restored building provides modern amenities and historic charm, truly making it a one-of-a-kind venue in Eastern Iowa .

Cedar Rapids Titans1100 Rockford Road SWCedar Rapids, IA 52404Eric George: Director of Business DevelopmentP:319/730.6302F: 319/398.0101W: www.cedarrapidstitans.comE: egeorge@cedarrapidstitans.com

The Cedar Rapids Titans are an indoor professional football team playing our first season in the CR ice arena . Next year we will move into the renovated US Cellular Center .

EnsevaNovember 18

Truck Country December 15

True NorthJanuary 19

New Members Ribbon Cuttings

Tuesday, March 13

Reception 6 pmDinner Program 7 pm

Marriott Hotel Cedar Rapids

$40.00 per ticket

Reservations Required

17FEBRUARY 2012

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Join us for the Grand Opening &PM Exchange

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott605 32nd Ave SWCedar Rapids, IA 52404319-247-1000

Thursday, February 235:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott605 32nd Ave SW,Cedar Rapids

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Register to win door prizes.Check-out our brand new rooms.See you there!

Visit us at:www.fairfieldinn/cidcr.com

January PM Exchange Recap

More than 400 members enjoyed an evening of networking at the January PM hosted by TrueNorth . TrueNorth recently relocated their offices to the former downtown library location at (500 First Street SE) . Thank you to all who attended, and special thanks to TrueNorth for hosting such a great event!

Contact the Economic Alliance and learn more about the numerous opportunities to maximize your

marketing dollars. From PM Exchanges, Featured Member of the Month, newsletter, on-line and more; The Economic Alliance can help you gain exposure

and positively impact your bottom line.

18 CEDAR RAPIDS METRO ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

The Corridor is filled with things to do and ways to get involved, but where do you go to find it all?

Join staff and volunteers from the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance for Conquer the Corridor, a FREE 45 minute presentation designed to get you connected to “all things Corridor .”

From community basics to volunteer opportunities, nightlife, culture and beyond, this high-energy and interactive program will leave you charged up and proud of the place you call home! Light breakfast and beverages provided, along with a calendar of upcoming events and resource packet .

Reserve your seat by contacting Quinn Pettifer at qpettifer@cedarrapids .org or 319/730 .1404 .

Thanks to Presenting Sponsor Bankers Trust

and Host Sponsor The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

ConquerTheCorridor

O n e C o m m u n i t y . E n d l e s s O p p o r t u n i t i e s .

Tuesday, March 6

8:00 am to 9:00 am

Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

410 3rd Avenue SE

Free Light breakfast &

beverages provided

RSVP Required

Need Printing or Mailing?

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378-4451

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19FEBRUARY 2012

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