Week of August 10th, 2026

... Making It All Happen

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Director’s Message - Week of August 10th 🍑💖

Over the past week, one phrase seems to keep showing up:

“You can be the juiciest peach, but not everyone likes peaches.”

And honestly… there is a lot of truth in that.

Sometimes we can give our very best, show up with good intentions, work hard, care deeply, and still not be everyone’s cup of tea or their favorite fruit. And that's okay.

For me, this week is about SHOWING UP.

Show up for your community.
Show up for your neighbors.
Show up for the businesses you believe in.
Show up for the events that bring us together.
Show up with kindness, even when things aren't perfect.
And most importantly, keep showing up for what you believe is worth building.

Communities aren't strengthened because everyone agrees on everything. They're strengthened because people continue to care, continue to contribute, and continue to find ways to move forward together.

And boy, do we have plenty of opportunities to SHOW UP this week!

Lawn Chair Night is happening this week.
Grab your chair, bring a friend, and enjoy an evening together.

Carousel Sponsor Night gives us another opportunity to celebrate our amazing Story City Antique Carousel and the businesses and organizations that help keep it spinning.

And we're already getting ready for next week's Duck Race! There is plenty happening behind the scenes to get those little quackers ready to race!

This is what community looks like. It's the planning, the volunteering, the sponsoring, the attending, the cheering, the sharing, and sometimes simply showing up.

So, if you find yourself wondering if what you do matters, remember this:

Be the peach. 🍑

Keep showing up. Keep being kind. Keep caring. Keep contributing.

Because somewhere in this community, someone needs exactly what you have to offer.

And together, we're making Story City a pretty amazing place to be. ❤️

Shanon McKinley, Executive Director
Story City Chamber & Main Street

This week...

Get Ready... The Ducks Are Here!

Adopt your lucky duck online and be part of the excitement: www.storycitygcc.org/2026/08/19/315151/annual-duck-race-with-bbq/

1 Duck – $5
6 Quack Pack – $20

Whether you're hoping for bragging rights, supporting your community, or simply joining in the fun, every duck helps make this beloved event possible.

For more information on auditions, please check out JudgeStoryTroupe.org!

Support our Downtown Wireless Sound System Project
by entering our Story City Cornhole Board Raffle!

This one-of-a-kind custom Story City cornhole board set could be yours, and every raffle ticket purchased brings us one step closer to installing a wireless sound system throughout the 500 and 600 blocks of Broad Street.
The new system will enhance community events, parades, festivals, announcements, and downtown gatherings for years to come.

🎟️ Raffle tickets are available now at the Story City Greater Chamber Connection office (524 Broad St).

Thank you for helping us invest in the future of downtown Story City. Good Luck!

Upcoming Events...

Art in the Park Returns September 20 – A Celebration of Creativity & Community!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20, and join us in beautiful Story City for Art in the Park, a day filled with creativity, entertainment, and fun for the whole family!

Stroll through the park as talented artists and makers showcase their handcrafted creations, enjoy live music throughout the day, grab a delicious bite from local food vendors, and take a ride on the historic Story City Antique Carousel. With interactive activities, unique shopping, children's experiences, and so much more, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Calling All Artists!
We're still accepting artist registrations and would love to welcome even more creative talent to this year's event. Whether you create paintings, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, fiber arts, photography, or other handmade works, we'd love to have you join us.

Artist Registration:
https://www.storycitygcc.org/2026/09/20/315183/art-in-the-park/

Calling Young Creators!
Our Mini Makers Market is the perfect opportunity for young entrepreneurs and artists to showcase their talents, build confidence, and experience selling their handmade creations.

Mini Makers Registration:
https://forms.gle/daDEi567YV4fDTJS9

Bring your family, invite your friends, and spend the day celebrating art, community, and small businesses in Story City. From incredible artwork and delicious food to live music, carousel rides, and unforgettable memories, Art in the Park is an event you won't want to miss!

Making it Happen...

Story City Greater Chamber Connection

Story City Antique Carousel

Story City Greater Chamber Connection Website

Story City Greater Chamber Connection
524 Broad Street / PO Box 39
Story City, Iowa 50248
515-733-4214

Shanon McKinley, Executive Director
director@storycitygcc.com

You can email the GCC office at
director@storycitygcc.com
to be added to the list.