DEWITT, Iowa – The DeWitt Chamber & Development Company (DCDC) recognized its strong partnerships as it celebrated the past year of achievements at an annual meeting, Tuesday, July 1.
More than 200 members, partners, and community leaders gathered for the event at TYCOGA Winery & Distillery in DeWitt. The evening included networking, dinner, and the evening’s highlight — the presentation of DCDC’s annual Member Choice Awards. The event honored outstanding local businesses and individuals while reflecting on what chamber leaders called “a highly impactful year for the DCDC.”
“It’s been an outstanding year. From welcoming 18 new members, responding to 20 business expansion inquiries, to selling the last two industrial lots in the Crossroads Business Park, we’ve been busy,” DCDC President and CEO Angela Rheingans said in her Year in Review address. “But more than that, we’ve been effective – because of the strong partnerships we’ve built with our members, volunteers, and community leaders.”
The DCDC’s work this past year spanned business recruitment, housing development, workforce initiatives, advocacy at the state level, and hosting or supporting over 800 local events. Stressing the importance of a vibrant community, Ms. Rheingans added in an event release “DeWitt is a place where business and quality of life thrive together.”
The evening also included a special Dessert Dash to support Light Up DeWitt. It’s a campaign to refresh downtown holiday lighting. In addition, DCDC presented a tribute to two beloved community volunteers, Darwin Andresen and Jim Clark, who were honored posthumously as the 2025 Volunteer Citizens of the Year.
Member Choice Awards
The event also included the presentation of DCDC’s 2025 Member Choice Awards. The winners are:
- Excellence in Marketing & Social Media: Emma Rae’s Antiques & Uniques was honored for its dynamic and effective use of multiple marketing platforms, including social media and billboards that attract customers from across the country. Community members celebrated its visibility and warm service, describing it as a unique destination that brings people to DeWitt.
- Excellence in Customer Service: Farm Bureau Financial Services – Bridget Miller.
Voters commended Ms. Miller and her team for their responsiveness, professionalism, and personal care. One member shared, “Whether it’s adding coverage or changing it, Bridget always provides top of the line service.” - Best Workplace: First Central State Bank. This award reflected the heartfelt appreciation from long-term employees who described the bank as a supportive, family-oriented workplace where leadership is engaged and opportunities for personal and professional growth abound. One employee said “It’s my home away from home. They are my work family.”
- Nonprofit of the Year: Kids Business of DeWitt. Praised for its safe and high-quality child care, it was recognized for being essential to working families in DeWitt. As one parent shared, “They provide childcare so parents can provide for their families. I’ve always felt welcomed.”
- Business of the Year: Smilee’s Ice Cream and More. A local favorite, Smilee’s was described as “greeting every customer with a happy, smiling staff” and known for its generous community involvement. Owners Matt and Corina Cavin were applauded for creating a joyful environment and consistently giving back to DeWitt.
- Most Promising New Business: Calico Consignment & Resale Shoppe. The shop was recognized for its rapid growth and excellent customer service. It offers affordable fashion with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and a commitment to sustainability and community.
- Volunteer Citizens of the Year: Darwin Andresen & Jim Clark (awarded posthumously). The pair were honored for their quiet leadership and boundless generosity which left a lasting mark on the community. Mr. Andresen was remembered for decades of volunteer service and behind-the-scenes leadership with the DeWitt Nite Lions, Central DeWitt FFA Alumni and the DCDC. Mr. Clark was recognized for his selfless service across multiple organizations, his role as Santa Claus for 30+ years, and his unwavering support for children and families through his tenure on the Kids Business Board of Directors.
Looking ahead
As the DCDC enters a new fiscal year, plans are underway to expand the Crossroads Business Park, increase housing development, launch a new website, and publish the next edition of the DeWitt Community Profile & Member Directory in partnership with The Observer.
Ms. Rheingans also noted her continued advocacy work through her statewide leadership role as board chair of the Professional Developers of Iowa.
“With all of us working together, I know DeWitt’s momentum will only continue,” she told the crowd.
