The Tale of Two Cities. “It was the best of times and the worst of times”. Growing up it was one of those books that my parents strongly encouraged my siblings and I to read. Being an avid reader, I figured no problem. However, this book was an unstartable and unfinishable book for me. However, the title of it has stuck with me. I am sure many of you have seen the comments on facebook or maybe you’ve said something to this effect “oh that’s a Malvern event not a Glenwood one” (or vice versa), or “why can’t we have more decorations or art like Malvern.” or “why can’t there be a shop hop in Malvern”. We like to pit Glenwood and Malvern against one another. Which at times leaves me baffled. Not because I don’t understand it, but more so because at my core I am all about collaboration. Especially when it comes to building communities to encourage people to come visit.
Both towns have some amazing things to offer: from restaurants, to boutiques, to hair salons, to vet clinics and more. Both have a deep sense of pride and history. Malvern has an artistry, progressive, and quaint vibe. Glenwood is known for its homecoming and has seen growth around the downtown square. When you peel back the differences you find that these towns have more in common than they do different.
I recognize though that they have some inherent differences. Maybe the biggest difference is that Malvern has a dedicated betterment organization, where Glenwood does not. And this is the opportunity. We all have our opinions about the communities that we live in. But what are you doing about those opinions? What are you doing about the concerns you have? Or the big audacious ideas you have for your community?
Malvern Area Betterment Association is always looking for people who want to help. And in Glenwood there is a group working at forming a betterment organization.This Tale of Two Cities doesn’t need to be one of competition. Both towns can thrive and grow and support each other. We just need to shift our focus from a fixed mindset of this how it has always been to a growth mindset. Imagine, what if all the towns in Mills County worked together to support each other and Mills County became the best County in Iowa? Will you join me in this effort?
Events this Holiday Season
Keep the Cheer Here: There is still time to get your Bingo card and participate!
MABA Festival of Trees Dec 3rd and 4th: check out their facebook page for a full list of times
Glenwood Rotary December 5th Spaghetti Dinner 11-1 at the Mills County Museum. This is a fundraiser that goes to support local nonprofits across Mills County