Everywhere you look, Iowans are uniting like never before. While times may be tough right now, we’re seeing it won’t stop the great people in the state from supporting one another. Many have taken to social media to help those in their communities, share helpful resources or to simply highlight something positive to bring joy to others. The Week in Social will round up the best of #IowansUnite and share these uplifting stories.
.@vidalung in Coralville was recognized by @Forbes as one of the top 15 companies saving the world from COVID-19. Learn more: https://t.co/AfWEhIuPai pic.twitter.com/Nz8gjB01mx
— Iowa Economic Dev (@BusinessIOWA) July 10, 2020
VIDA Diagnostics, a Coralville-based biomedical software company that specializes in the evaluation and treatment of pulmonary diseases, has been making a difference in the field of respiratory illness far beyond Iowa. Forbes recently named VIDA as one of the 15 Companies Saving the World from COVID-19, saying that their work in respiratory illness has become even more important in the past few months.
Author Mark Minevich wrote, “The ability to diagnose respiratory disorders during this pandemic will save countless lives. [VIDA’s] LungPrint uses medical data, including chest CT scans ... integrated with radiology workflows, automatically evaluating lung density that may be indicative of emphysema and interstitial lung abnormalities.”
Though Iowa is home to many great small towns, only one in each state was chosen for Thrillist’s list of The Must Visit Small Town In Every State. A certain town in northeast Iowa happened to take that title.
Decorah is described as “a jumping-off point for the best wilderness in the Hawkeye State; canoeing, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, fishing, and bird-watching are a short drive out of town.” Thrillist also mentioned Toppling Goliath Brewing Co., home to the Kentucky Brunch, an imperial stout aged in whiskey barrels. It was once named the best beer in the world by RateBeer users.
Guess which town was just named the must-visit place in Iowa?! Hint: It's home to #LutherCollege. ?? https://t.co/dreiCvB66z
— Luther College (@luthercollege) July 9, 2020
Thinking about doing some camping this year for your summer vacation? Our campgrounds are open! ?? Visit https://t.co/qf52CqCult for info on what camping will look like this year and how to register. ?? #nothingcompares pic.twitter.com/FYAChPlE2o
— Iowa State Fair (@IowaStateFair) July 9, 2020
While the Iowa State Fair may be cancelled this year, Iowans can still have fun in Des Moines at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The campsites are open through mid-October and are mere minutes from city shopping, dining and entertainment. Prices range between $28 and $40 depending on utilities selection including water, electric, bathhouses and a safe shelter.
The fairgrounds are easily accessible from various Iowa locations. You’ll also be able to talk with an expert planning staff that can help deliver all the details to make any family event extra special, all for a low cost.
Everyone is looking for ways to keep themselves entertained these days and Iowa PBS has created a few easy ways to do exactly that. Their Wander & Wonder Summer Fun Pinterest boards include some of Iowa’s treasures, great shows for parents and their children and fun activities which can be completed from home. Their ideas can help keep you and your family amused during these hot summer months.
Learn something new, find fun activities and explore Iowa with our Wander & Wonder Pinterest boards. These ideas can keep you entertained all summer long!https://t.co/ogL8Yt6cO9
— Iowa PBS (@IowaPBS) July 5, 2020
Here’s a full list of Black-Owned businesses in Iowa! https://t.co/cCMkZEMr2I
— Des Moines Black Lives Matter (@DesMoinesBLM) July 7, 2020
More than 120 Black owned businesses were compiled by the Director’s Council Des Moines in partnership with the Financial Empowerment Center. The directory has a search feature so you can easily find any of your favorite local businesses and a filter to select from more than 30 business types including financial services, catering, construction and real estate. Black-owned businesses that would like to be added to the directory can apply here.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced awards totaling more than $29 million would be provided to eight historic preservation projects throughout the state. The Historic Preservation Tax Credit program provides a state income tax credit to projects for rehabilitation of historic buildings. The program is designed to promote the retention of unique, character-defining buildings and building features that contribute to a community and neighborhood.
“It’s exciting to see Iowa’s historic buildings find new life with assistance from this program,” said Debi Durham, IEDA and Iowa Finance Authority Director. “These projects – from residential housing to commercial office space and a restaurant/bar – will not only preserve the past, but also ensure our communities are attractive places to live and work into the future.”
$21.9 million was awarded to 15 Iowa historic preservation projects through @BusinessIOWA https://t.co/r8HnHvl330 #DSMstrong
— DSMpartnership (@DSMpartnership) July 7, 2020
