The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Akin Building Center on Friday, January 23rd, 2026, to celebrate new ownership and learn more about the vision for the Atlantic location moving forward.

New owners Ryan and Michele Draper, alongside long-time owner Adam Bock, shared updates on the positive changes being implemented across the business. Many of the improvements are driven directly by feedback from customers and employees, with a strong focus on enhancing the overall customer experience while continuing to support the team members who make the business successful.

Ryan Draper brings a strong background in the building industry, having worked as a contractor before joining Akin Building Center seven years ago. Michele Draper has spent the past 24 years in the insurance industry, bringing valuable experience in customer service and business operations. The Drapers are based in Creston, Iowa, and understand the importance of investing in the communities where they live and work. Together, they now own four Akin Building Center locations in Creston, Corning, Atlantic, and Clarinda.

During the visit, Ryan highlighted recent enhancements at the Atlantic location, including updated displays showcasing new siding options, decking materials, and other building technologies. He also shared improvements to the Rent-A-Center, which offers a wide selection of tools such as jackhammers, saws, and carpet cleaners to support both homeowners and contractors.

Akin Building Center has been a trusted part of southwest Iowa since 1927, known for its quality products, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to customer service. The new ownership team emphasized their dedication to continuing that legacy by supporting employees, listening to customers, and remaining actively involved in the communities they serve.

Akin Building Center in Atlantic is located at 110 E. 3rd Street. For more information, call (712) 243-4385 or visit https://akinbuildingcenters.com/

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors were hosted by the Masonic Pymosa Lodge on Thursday, January 15th, 2026, where they learned more about the organization’s long-standing commitment to philanthropy and its upcoming fundraising events.

During the visit, Donnie Drennan shared the rich history of the Masonic organization’s charitable efforts, with a strong focus on supporting local education. For more than 30 years, Pymosa Lodge has awarded annual scholarships to graduating seniors from the Atlantic and CAM school districts, helping offset the cost of tuition. The lodge’s primary fundraiser supporting this effort is its annual Irish Stew Feed.

The 10th Annual Masonic Scholarship St. Patrick’s Day Stew Feed Fundraiser will be held Tuesday, March 17th, from 5:00–7:30 PM at the Masonic Lodge. The event will feature beef stew, vegetable stew, and Irish soda bread, served for a free-will donation. Meals may be enjoyed inside the lodge or through a drive-through option located alongside the building.

The Ambassadors also learned about a new fundraising event the lodge is hosting to support Vision Atlantic. Building on a tradition once held by the Atlantic Shriners, the Masonic Lodge will host a Chicken Noodle Dinner at the United Church of Christ (1607 Hazel Street, Atlantic). Udderly Delicious will prepare the chicken and noodles, with the Masonic Lodge providing desserts. The meal will be offered for a free-will donation, and the Grand Lodge has agreed to match the funds raised the night of the event. While delivery and take-out will not be available this year, the lodge may consider those options in the future if demand is strong.

In addition to meal fundraisers, Pymosa Lodge supports its scholarship program through can and bottle recycling. Drop-off locations include the Masonic Lodge, Boes Repair Inc., and the Cass County Landfill, and community members may also contact a Mason to arrange pickup from their home or business.

Pymosa Lodge #271 is located at 1010 SW 7th Street in Atlantic. For more information about upcoming fundraisers, the scholarship program, or ways to donate, contact 402-740-1717