Main Street Minute
By: Ron Reischl

Why do we think Manning is refreshing?  Here are 5 reasons Manning is unique.  Future articles will include more.  When we add up Manning’s accomplishments and assets, we realize that Manning is refreshingly unique from other small towns and we can be proud.  As a result of involved businesses and an involved citizenry, we have an active volunteer force but more are needed.  Do you have a passion for Manning?   Do you want to see it succeed – for your children and grandchildren?  I encourage you to volunteer!  Please visit our website to get a listing of some of the Manning organizations:  http://www.manningia.com/organizations.html.  If you want your organization listed, please send an email to mainstmanning@mmctsu.com with the name, contact  information and a description of your mission/activities.  Additional volunteer opportunities are listed at: http://www.manningia.com/community-life.html or call the Main Street Manning office.  THANKS to each of you for all you do for Manning!!!

Main Street Minute
Ron Reischl

Why did the branding consultants consider Manning to be refreshing?  Here is the brand statement as published on www.ManningIA.com: 

We are Manning, Iowa and we are a proud progressive community.

From the cultivated rows of local agriculture to our brick-lined Main Street, we have a deep-rooted history of thinking ahead, stepping up to the plate, and getting things done…together. And that is refreshing.

Manning is a West Central Iowa community whose residents care for one another and welcome newcomers…it is a natural part of our DNA. Manning is not only something to see, but something to live…to breathe…to experience. Whether watching our Wolves compete, shopping at our locally-owned businesses, worshipping freely together, or coming together to support friends in need, Manning is a true community…where neighbors are family and a handshake is a promise…this is our way of life. And that is refreshing.

Manning is proud of our heritage...and of the people it has forged us to become. We are humble, with a considerable vision and the stubborn determination to accomplish what we set our minds to…whether supporting a new, modern, community-owned hospital or the transplant of a 400-year-old Hausbarn from a world away. This heritage thrives yet today in a 24-hour recreation center, lush community parks, a vibrant downtown, exceptional commercial expansion potential, and through the young families moving back to fill our neighborhoods. Manning is a terrific place to call home with a unique vision and innovative way of thinking. And that is refreshing.

We invite you to be our guest…visit…come live...and you'll see why we say, “Manning, Iowa…It’s Refreshing.”

Main Street Minute
Ron Reischl

Manning's Aug 2nd launch of its new website and “Manning, Its Refreshing" branding campaign was excellent.  Over 120 people attended the launch at the VFW Hall.  In an article in the Carroll Daily Times Herald, comments from reporter Douglas Burns included: "Manning, home to the oldest town celebration in Iowa, long has had a separating quality among the Hawkeye State’s small cities”.   WOW – what a compliment!!   He goes on to say “The town of 1500 people has a brand, carefully cultivated phrasing and images aimed at creating an inviting sensation.  Manning, It’s Refreshing….. The mission of the message: brand Manning as a place to live a life less ordinary.  Whether its dealing with local merchants instead of cold chains, hearing your name in the grocery aisle or at the local welder or not living as an anonymous drone in the cookie-cutter suburbs of larger cities, life in Manning, in ways large and small, is just, well, refreshing….  The brand relies on a lifestyle and quality of residents”.  Douglas caught the essence of our launch event and our marketing campaign.  All in all, the launch showcased Manning’s assets and Manning’s caring forward-thinking residents.  Check out the new Branding campaign and website at www.ManningIA.com!!