Cedar Valley Spotlight: Where Jewelry Gets Personal
Alloy Custom Jewelers is a great example of local entrepreneurship in action. Founded by father-son team Aram and Sam Susong, the Cedar Falls business has built its reputation around creativity,
News
Maoko Umeda: A Voice of the Valley
“Life here feels comfortable, and I feel like I can be myself.” Maoko Umeda never expected Iowa to feel familiar. Before moving to the Cedar Valley, she had spent most
Why Your Budget Goes Further in the Cedar Valley
Living in a place where everyday life is affordable changes the way people experience their community. You can grab coffee downtown before work, spend the weekend at a local concert
Beyond the Blue Bin
Some companies talk about sustainability. Rite Environmental is out on the road doing it every day. On Earth Day, it feels fitting to talk about a Cedar Valley business that
The People Who Help Good Happen
Think of them as the “we know a place” friend of community service. You know the type. Need a great coffee shop? They have three ideas. Need a trusted mechanic?
Hidden Gems of Waverly, Iowa
By Chelsea Petersen, Executive Director, Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street Waverly, Iowa has a way of surprising people. Visitors often arrive for a tournament, a college visit, or
A Voice of the Valley: Simon Campbell
“What we didn’t expect was how quickly this community would make us feel like we belonged here and that we had something to give.” Hi, my name is Simon Campbell,
Count Me In: A Local Response to a Statewide Talent Challenge
New research from the Common Sense Institute (CSI) confirms what many communities across Iowa have felt for years. Too many graduates are leaving the state, and the economic consequences are
New Hampton, Iowa: Best Kept Secrets
New Hampton may be small, but its charm runs deep. From locally loved restaurants and family-friendly attractions to peaceful nature escapes and unique shopping experiences, these best-kept secrets are what
A Voice of the Valley: Haley Hamm
“Somewhere between my first day of college and my first coffee run downtown, the Cedar Valley became home.” Hi, my name is Haley Hamm, and this is why I Live
Brrr-illiant Things to Do in Buchanan County
Winter in Buchanan County is full of charm, cozy spots, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking to get outside, try something new, or enjoy a warm drink, there’s something for
Cedar Valley Spotlight: Not Your Typical Orchestra
The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony is redefining what it means to be a truly local orchestra with world-class sound. As the only fully professional symphony in this part of Iowa, it plays an
Why Live the Valley
When people think about what makes a community successful, they often think of jobs, businesses, or new developments. And while those things matter, they all depend on one critical factor:
11 on 11: Our Favorite Local Finds
There’s something about fall in the Cedar Valley! The cooler air and bright colors are a perfect excuse to slow down and get outside. 1.) Hartman Reserve Nature Center (Black
The Future of Work in Cedar Valley: Preparing for the Next Generation of Talent
Have you ever tried walking up on a down escalator? As the treads drop beneath your feet, your best strategy for reaching the top is quick-shifting steps combined with a