Episode 245 of the Grow Clinton Podcast features an exciting conversation with Hillary Karben and LeAnn Schaefer of Legends Draft Haus, one of Clinton’s most dynamic destinations for food, entertainment, and community gatherings.

Hillary and LeAnn share the story behind the new ownership journey and how they are building on Legends’ strong foundation while introducing new energy, ideas, and experiences for the community. Their vision is already taking shape in a big way with the launch of The Yard, a brand-new outdoor music and event space designed to bring people together all summer long.

Introducing The Yard

The Yard is Legends’ newest addition, offering a vibrant outdoor venue for live music, social gatherings, and special events. Designed to be both family-friendly and adult-friendly, the space creates a flexible environment where everyone can find something to enjoy, whether it is a casual evening with friends, a live performance, or a community celebration.

The official grand opening of The Yard is scheduled for July 17 through July 19, with a full weekend of entertainment and activities planned to showcase everything the space has to offer.

A Summer Packed with Activity

Beyond the grand opening, Legends Draft Haus is hosting a full lineup of live music and special events throughout the summer. Their approach blends entertainment with community engagement, creating consistent opportunities for residents and visitors to connect, unwind, and experience Clinton’s growing social scene.

In addition, Legends will host its Golf Tournament on August 28, adding another signature event to their calendar and further expanding their role as a community hub.

Supporting Community & Growth

Legends Draft Haus continues to be an important partner in local economic development, and we want to extend our sincere thanks for their investment in Grow Clinton.

To explore upcoming events, learn more about The Yard, or plan your next visit, go to https://www.legendsdrafthaus.com

If you are interested in hosting an event at Legends Draft Haus, you can reach their team at legendsevents2118@gmail.com

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email podcast@growclinton.com.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

High-quality childcare is one of the most important, and often overlooked, drivers of economic development in any community.

In Episode 244 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we sit down with Lee and Hannah of the Goose Lake Learning Center to talk about how their work is making a meaningful impact in Goose Lake and across the Greater Clinton Region.

The Goose Lake Learning Center is more than a childcare provider. It is a critical community asset that supports working families, strengthens workforce participation, and helps ensure that local employers can attract and retain talent. By offering dependable, high-quality care, Lee and Hannah are helping remove one of the biggest barriers facing today’s workforce.

During the conversation, Lee and Hannah share their journey, the challenges and rewards of operating a childcare center, and their vision for continued growth. Their passion for early childhood development and commitment to creating a safe, engaging environment for children is evident throughout the episode.

Access to childcare is a key piece of the economic development puzzle. When families have reliable options, businesses benefit, communities grow, and young people get the strong start they deserve. The Goose Lake Learning Center plays a vital role in making that happen in our region.

Grow Clinton is proud to partner with and support organizations like the Goose Lake Learning Center that are investing directly in our community’s future. Their continued commitment to quality childcare helps strengthen the foundation of our regional economy.

To learn more about the Goose Lake Learning Center or to inquire about childcare availability, contact them directly at 563-577-2499.

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email podcast@growclinton.com.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Episode 243 of the Grow Clinton Podcast highlights one of the community’s favorite summer traditions—Finally Friday! Andy and Jenny sit down with Lori, Susie, and Barb Jacobsen of the Finally Friday Board of Directors to talk about what makes this event such a staple in Clinton and why it continues to bring people together year after year.

Finally Friday takes place on the first Friday of June, July, and August from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., offering a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere along the riverfront. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of live music, great food, and refreshing beverages.

Please note that outside coolers are not permitted, as a variety of food and drink options are available for purchase on-site. Admission is by donation, making it an accessible event for everyone in the community.

Lori and Barb share the behind-the-scenes work that goes into organizing Finally Friday, how the event has evolved, and its impact on local businesses, tourism, and community pride. Their passion for creating welcoming, vibrant experiences shines through, reflecting the broader mission of strengthening Clinton as a place to live, work, visit, and invest.

Whether you are a longtime attendee or have yet to experience Finally Friday, this conversation offers a great look at why the event continues to thrive.

For more details and updates, visit the Finally Friday Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FinallyFridayAtTheRiverClintonIa/

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email podcast@growclinton.com.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

In episode 242 of the Grow Clinton Podcast, we’re proud to spotlight an organization that embodies the very best of community, inclusion, and long-term impact in the Greater Clinton Region: The Arch.

We sit down with Lynne Hilgendorf and Devin Land to explore the mission, growth, and future of The Arch, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) through intentional community living and meaningful relationships.

Building Community Through Inclusion

The Arch is part of the international L’Arche network, founded on the belief that people with and without disabilities can live, work, and grow together in shared community. In Clinton, that mission comes to life through residential homes, day programs, and opportunities for individuals with I/DD to build independence, purpose, and connection.

What makes The Arch unique is its emphasis on mutual relationships. It is not simply a service provider; it is a community where everyone contributes, belongs, and is valued. This model has created a deeply rooted culture of inclusion that continues to shape lives across the region.

Growth and Expansion in Clinton

Over the years, The Arch has steadily expanded its presence and impact in Clinton. From its early beginnings to its current programming, the organization has grown to meet increasing needs while staying grounded in its core mission.

Lynne and Devin share how The Arch has evolved, expanding services, strengthening partnerships, and increasing awareness of the importance of inclusive living environments. Their work reflects a broader trend in community development: recognizing that quality of life and accessibility are essential components of a thriving region.

Investing in the Future: A New Accessible Home

A key focus of this episode is The Arch’s capital campaign to construct a modern, fully accessible home for community members with I/DD. This project represents a major step forward in ensuring that residents have safe, comfortable, and adaptable living spaces that meet today’s standards and tomorrow’s needs.

The new home is more than a building; it is an investment in dignity, independence, and long-term sustainability. It also highlights how infrastructure projects in the human services sector contribute to broader economic and community development goals, from job creation to improved quality of life.

A Valued Community Partner

The Arch has long been a strong supporter of community and economic development efforts throughout the Greater Clinton Region. Their commitment to collaboration, advocacy, and inclusive growth aligns closely with the mission of Grow Clinton and many of our regional partners.

We are grateful for their continued leadership and the role they play in making Clinton a more welcoming and equitable place for all.

For more information, visit The Arch online at https://larcheclinton.org/.

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email podcast@growclinton.com.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Grow Clinton is proud to highlight the people and businesses driving our local economy forward, and Episode 241 of the Grow Clinton Podcast does exactly that.

In this episode, we sit down with Darrick Bickford, owner of Bickford’s Hometown Store in Clinton, Iowa, to talk about small business ownership, community investment, and what makes a hometown hardware and supply store so essential.

Located in Clinton, Iowa, Bickford’s Hometown Store has become a trusted destination for residents and contractors alike. Under Darrick Bickford’s leadership, the store offers a wide-ranging inventory designed to meet the everyday needs of homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals.

Customers can find a comprehensive selection of hardware, tools, home improvement supplies, lawn and garden products, and seasonal items. In addition to its product selection, Bickford’s Hometown Store emphasizes competitive pricing and regular sales that help customers get the most value for their money.

Customers can learn more about current inventory, promotions, and store hours by visiting https://www.bickfordshometownstore.com/index.html.

Do you have an idea for a certain topic or special guest to feature on the Grow Clinton Podcast? Email podcast@growclinton.com.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

At Grow Clinton, we are proud to celebrate the people and organizations that help shape our region’s success. Episode 240 of the Grow Clinton Podcast does exactly that, featuring a special conversation with Ryan Birney, President of Clinton Engineering Company (CEC), as they mark an incredible milestone—100 years in business!

For a century, Clinton Engineering Company has played a vital role in building and strengthening communities across the region. From infrastructure design to innovative engineering solutions, CEC has consistently delivered the expertise and reliability that projects and communities depend on. Reaching 100 years in operation is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about the company’s leadership, adaptability, and commitment to excellence.

For more information, visit CEC online at https://clinton-engineering.com.

In this episode, Ryan Birney shares insight into CEC’s rich history, how the company has evolved over the decades, and what continues to drive their success today. The conversation also explores the future of the construction industry, workforce development, and the role firms like CEC play in supporting sustainable community and economic growth.

As an organization focused on advancing economic development, Grow Clinton is especially grateful for partners like Clinton Engineering Company. Their ongoing support of our mission and their direct contributions to community development projects make a meaningful and lasting impact.

Do you have a show topic or special guest you'd like to request? Please email podcast@growclinton.com.

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!

Workforce development remains a top priority for our region, and episode 239 of the Grow Clinton Podcast highlights an exciting opportunity already making an impact locally.

If you have an idea for a special guest or topic, email podcast@growclinton.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas Bitting and Brian Conzett of Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) to discuss the Process Technician Program now available through Clinton Community College. This innovative program was developed in partnership with Grow Clinton, ADM, 3M (Cordova), and LyondellBasell, bringing together education and industry to address real workforce needs in our community.

The Process Technician Program is designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and industrial operations. Participants gain the technical skills and hands-on experience necessary to succeed in roles that are critical to some of our region’s largest employers. Whether you are entering the workforce, changing careers, or looking to upskill, this affordable program offers a direct pathway into well-paying, stable employment.

One of the most exciting aspects of this initiative is its accessibility. Scholarships are available to help reduce financial barriers, making it easier for individuals to take advantage of this career-building opportunity. If you are interested in enrolling, be sure to ask about scholarship options during the application process.

This program represents what is possible when education, industry, and economic development partners work together with a shared goal: creating opportunity and strengthening our local workforce pipeline.

We extend our sincere thanks to Nicholas Bitting and Brian Conzett for joining us on the podcast and sharing their insights, and to Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, ADM, 3M (Cordova), and LyondellBasell for their collaboration and commitment to workforce development in the Clinton region.

To learn more about the Process Technician Program or to get started, visit: https://eicc.edu/classes-programs/pathway/industrial/process-technician/

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a conversation with the people who make the Greater Clinton Region AWESOME!

- Apple Music
- Spotify
- Amazon Music
- Buzzsprout
- Overcast
- YouTube

For more information about the Grow Clinton Podcast, visit https://www.facebook.com/growclintonpodcast.

Have an idea for a podcast guest? Send us a message!