Recognition at 124th Annual Banquet held Wednesday
UnityPoint Health-Marshalltown was awarded the 2022 Community Impact Award at the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce 124th Annual Banquet on June 22, 2022 at the Midnight Ballroom. The award recognizes the impact UnityPoint Health has had following uncertainty in healthcare in Marshalltown several years ago, to maneuvering through a pandemic, then transitioning to a brand new facility this past year. “To see the incredible investment they continue to make and have made in our community is absolutely outstanding,” said Chamber President and CEO John Hall. Keynote speaker at the annual banquet was Jason Duff, founder and CEO of Small Nation. Duff met with community leaders that day and toured our downtown to help imagine what the future holds for Marshalltown. Duff was part of a downtown transformation in Bellefontaine, Ohio, which faced similar challenges to Marshalltown. He said Marshalltown is on a great path and has momentum and he sensed the pride of the town from its people.
Summer is here and if you’re looking for something to do in Marshalltown here is a quick list of ways to enjoy the season.
Take a day on the Linn Creek Recreational Trail
You can’t beat some time on the trail, head through the wooded area by Grimes Farm, meander through town, hear the rolling creek water underneath the train bridge by Lennox or ride by the Iowa River at Riverview Park.
Take in live music at Grimes Farm amphitheater
The Live and Local monthly concert series is back starting June 23. It’s a perfect setting for live music and they plan on shows monthly through October.
Fair time
The Central Iowa Fair is a must-visit for my family every summer. Take a tour of the livestock areas, check out the live music, games, food and more. There’s even a mud volleyball tournament if that’s your thing. There’s always something to do for everyone. This year’s fair is July 13-16.
Take up tennis or pickleball
The Marshalltown Court Complex is more than a year old and it’s a popular place for tennis with plenty of room for all with the 12 tennis courts. If tennis is too fast for you, take up pickleball, a favorite of all ages. The three new pickleball courts there are a blast.
Don’t miss downtown
Stroll along Main Street, enjoy the Gallery Garden mixed in with downtown shopping and food.
Hiking at Grimes Farm
My family likes to take a hike to the observation tower at Grimes Farm and have a picnic at the top of the tower. There are also other trails along Linn Creek to enjoy nature at its best.
Try out your golf game
Oftentimes when I do community tours for people thinking of moving to Marshalltown they are amazed that we have three nice golf courses right in town here. So dust off the clubs and try your hand at the American Legion, Elmwood Country Club or Wandering Creek courses in town.
Explore the vast Riverview Park
Many people don’t realize the sheer size of Riverview Park until they get out there. And there’s plenty of things to do at the north side park. You can walk, ride bikes, fish, take in the dog park, play tennis, basketball or disc golf. Or take your camper or tent for your own little staycation along the Iowa River.
13th Street revival
Take in the Marshalltown Municipal Band at West End Park and stroll through the shops.
Aquatic Center
The perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. Take your sunglasses and sunscreen and make a day of it.