Clayton County Development Group holds annual meeting

The Clayton County Development Group (CCDG) annual meeting was held at the Elkport-Garber Community Center on July 22. Johnson’s Restaurant & Reception prepared a delicious meal for the evening. 

The theme for the 31st year annual dinner was “Unplug & Recharge.” CCDG President Michael Erickson shared the mission of the organization, and the 2025 annual report highlighting the past year’s accomplishments was given by executive director Darla Kelchen. County and community leaders, lenders, industries, businesses and organizations were recognized for their partnership with CCDG to accomplish goals together. 

Additionally, CCDG recognized those who impact their communities and the county with awards. This year’s award winners were:   

Erickson presented Attraction of the Year to Umbrella Arts, a creative group that brings energy, imagination and community pride to Guttenberg. For years, this group has united neighbors and visitors through inspiring programs—from River of Music concerts to public sculpture projects—that make art accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Umbrella Arts’ commitment to arts education, collaboration and beautification enriches the cultural landscape and fosters a genuine sense of belonging. Juanita Loven shared the impact and vision from Jane Stabler of Umbrella Arts to get music instruments in the city park for all ages to enjoy.  

Bill Robinson honored Roger Balk at the Garnavillo Mill for a business career of 50 years. Balk was recognized as a cornerstone of the community that has been shaping the local economy and supporting agriculture for decades. Balk’s dedication of 50 years to the Garnavillo Mill has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and service, becoming a trusted partner for many in the region. That dedication extends beyond business, as Garnavillo Mill actively contributes to the community’s well-being and growth. Balk shared about his career of learning all the aspects of the business, taking ownership and expanding the business into the next generation.

Tasha Henkes presented the Customer Service of the Year Award to The Store on Main & Coffee Bar in Monona. Owner Diana Parker was recognized for creating a beloved gathering place that has become a hub of warmth, community and connection. For locals and visitors alike, this spot is more than just a place to grab a drink; it is where friendships grow, creativity flows and every visit feels like coming home. With its inviting atmosphere and dedication to quality, The Store on Main enriches the heart of the town. Parker shared about her dreams of expanding the business with a coffee bar to bring people together in Monona.  

Mary Kuehl celebrated Moser School of Dance & Gymnastics for 40 years in the U.S. Tumbling Association. This business in Edgewood has consistently and powerfully shaped lives for 55 years, nurturing athletes from sub-beginner to elite levels in both tumbling and gymnastics. With 40 years of active involvement in the United States Tumbling Association (USTA), their influence extends beyond medals and championships to building confidence, discipline and values that last a lifetime. Moser’s unwavering commitment to excellence speaks for itself, with 26 state titles and an impressive 134 athletes qualifying for nationals in 2024 alone. They were nominated as the USTA National 2025 Coaches of the Year. Debbi Moser reflected on the business journey, beginning with founder Bernita Moser, and which now involves four generations of family members in Carmen Moser Payne, Kattie Payne Schulte and Jorgie Schulte, who work together to enrich the lives of others.  

Steve Doeppke honored Jayco Fish and Cheese Market in McGregor with the Expansion of the Year Award. Rooted in passion, heritage and a deep connection to community, this business has quickly become a treasured part of the region. It is a place where fresh-caught fish, artisanal cheeses and locally sourced goods come together to enrich and connect the community. Founded by Brooks and Chawna Niedziejko, Jayco has a commitment to quality from river to table and offers far more than products, but an experience. Chawna shared their story of starting as a commercial fishing operation to expanding to a food truck and now into a storefront in McGregor to serve their customers and the community.  

Erickson presented the Community Betterment of the Year Award to Volga City Library.  Iowa’s first library is located in a newly renovated location in the community, serving as both a hub of knowledge and gathering place for all ages. It’s a space where the past, present and future converge, offering resources and opportunities for everyone. The Volga Public Library has been a beacon of learning and connection, continually evolving to meet the needs of its patrons.  Mayor Elaine Follon and librarian Karla Duff shared about the renovation and the addition of a nook to enjoy reading a good book, opportunities to use technology and computers to gather information, programs for children and a museum section on Volga history.

Sara Hertrampf recognized Old Crow Mercantile in Elkader as New Business of the Year. This boutique was established in 2024 and has become more than a shop, but a place where people feel welcome, inspired and connected. It’s a thoughtful mix of fashion, décor and small-town charm that elevates the downtown. Owner Monica Rowden spoke about her dream of wanting a mercantile store and how the Old Crow spirit guided her to Elkader to open Old Crow Mercantile.

Amy Roepke of Roepke Law Office in Strawberry Point was honored as Entrepreneur of the Year by Robinson. Roepke’s expertise turns complex challenges into clear solutions for the business community in Strawberry Point. She has a commitment to personalized service in areas such as mergers, estate planning,and tax matters, and has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many. Under Roepke’s leadership, the office blends sharp legal insight with practical business experience to empower clients at every stage of growth. Amy Roepke shared her journey to Strawberry Point, after starting her business in Denver, Colo., in 2016. In Strawberry Point, she has found a place of fulfillment and support from people in the community. 

Erickson concluded the evening by calling the annual meeting. He later reviewed the group’s 2025-2026 goals, which include promoting small business programs, hosting one-on-one business consulting, facilitating a county-wide marketing plan, hosting business training workshops, utilizing state and regional partnerships, providing gap financing with revolving loan funds and launching a Housing RLF Loan program.