Mills County. My community, my home, my investment. I have been involved with
this area since 1994 after my mom, who accepted a position in Omaha and moved
us from Indiana, wanted a smaller town to raise her family. I not only feel fortunate
to have grown up here and forged lifelong friendships, but also to have attended
high school here. I was mentored by high-quality educators who are still dedicated
to our community’s success, some even after their retirement from teaching. The
things they taught me went well beyond multiplication and long division, and more
into life lessons. Because of that support, I went on to operate my own small
business, learned how to excel in marketing and business development, and (most
importantly) understood how to create relationships and connections within our
community. This experience led me to the Chamber of Commerce position.
In the last month of being at the Chamber, I’ve met with even more community
leaders. And while I don’t like to play favorites, my conversation with John Dean,
the former president of Glenwood State Bank (although he probably needs no
introduction to most of you), is one that I keep coming back to. John, with decades
of community activism and investment under his belt, reminded me that “things
don’t just happen” and that there’s no such thing as an outlandish idea. With that,
I will be announcing some of the Chamber’s future directives with you very soon!
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the
world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
This quote from anthropologist Margaret Mead has hung on my refrigerator for over
15 years. It is a favorite of mine and one I read every day (or night, depending on
if I’m getting a late-night ice cream out of the freezer). My new position has
confirmed that things truly “don’t just happen” and we need more “thoughtful,
committed citizens” involved. This is the kind of community I want to continue to
cultivate. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer and to continue moving
Mills County in a positive direction. Please reach out to me if you’re interested in
learning more!
Mills County. OUR community, OUR home, OUR investment. I look forward to
serving here & hope you do, too. ~ Jennie
Upcoming events:
● Cultivate Community: Wednesday, August 10, 5-8 PM on the Glenwood
Square. Fun for all ages! Sponsored by local law enforcement & EMS, local
businesses, and the Glenwood Area Chamber of Commerce
● Malvern Bank’s 130th Year Anniversary Party: Thursday, August 4, 4:30-
6:30 PM at 404 Main St. Food, drinks, activities, prizes, and more
● AgriVision’s Dog Days of Summer Tractor Show: Saturday, August 6, 8 AM –
1 PM at 58668 190th St., Pacific Junction
● Malvern Concert Series: August 6 & 13, 6:30-9:30 PM at Heritage Park
● Davies Amphitheater Concerts: Aug 6, 14, 20, 7:00 PM at Glenwood Lake Park