The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors welcomed April Marnin of Sol Natural Health as a new Chamber member during a visit on Thursday, May 28th at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce office.

Sol Natural Health LLC was founded by Marnin, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner whose passion for natural health began while she was a stay-at-home mom. As her interest in wellness and nutrition grew, she pursued additional education and certifications in nutritional therapy. Since then, she has earned multiple certifications and continues expanding her education, currently completing advanced training in blood chemistry and whole-body wellness.

Through Sol Natural Health, Marnin works with clients to identify and address the root causes of health concerns rather than simply managing symptoms. Her personalized approach recognizes that every person’s health journey is different. She supports clients dealing with fatigue, hormone imbalance, digestive and metabolic concerns, autoimmune conditions, inflammation, and those simply wanting to improve their overall health and lifestyle.

Services offered through Sol Natural Health include functional nutrition and lifestyle support, one-on-one guidance, functional lab testing, and the Back2Basics Program, a step-by-step weight loss and wellness program available in both group and individual settings. Marnin utilizes detailed intake forms, bloodwork analysis, and specialized functional testing such as GI Map testing, hormone panels, metabolic markers, food sensitivity testing, and mineral analysis to help uncover nutritional deficiencies and underlying imbalances within the body.

Marnin shared that many health concerns can often be connected to lifestyle habits, stress, mineral deficiencies, or imbalances throughout the body. By combining nutrition, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplement support when needed, she works to help clients give their bodies the tools necessary to heal and function properly.

Sol Natural Health LLC currently operates through virtual appointments and flexible meeting locations throughout Atlantic, including local coffee shops and community spaces. Marnin has been seeing clients part-time for nearly a year and looks forward to continuing to grow her practice while helping individuals throughout the area improve their health naturally.

For more information about Sol Natural Health LLC, visit solnaturalhealthatl.com or follow Sol Natural Health on Facebook.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated Cass Health Eye Associates on Thursday, May 21st, with a ribbon cutting at their new facility in Atlantic. Chamber Ambassadors, community members, Cass Health staff, and supporters gathered to recognize the completion of the new building and celebrate the continued growth of local healthcare services.

Eye Associates has a long history of serving Atlantic and the surrounding communities. Dr. Thomas Schmidt originally established the practice in 1985 as a private eye clinic before the practice became part of Cass Health in the late 1990s. Today, the clinic continues that legacy under the leadership of optometrist Dr. Jeff Goergen, who shared his appreciation for both the community and the dedicated staff who helped make the practice successful.

Goergen reflected on the importance of teamwork not only within healthcare, but also with completing this new building. He stated, “Honestly, this does not work without staff. I am only as good as our staff, and they make my life so easy.”

During the event, Goergen also shared that Iowa is home to approximately 400 optometrists serving more than 3.2 million people across the state. He noted that the strong demand for eye care services highlights the important role Eye Associates plays in the community and reflects the continued need for accessible, high-quality vision care.

The new approximately 6,900-square-foot facility, featuring state-of-the-art technology, allows Eye Associates to continue expanding services including routine eye exams, medical eye care, glasses and contact lens services. In addition to comprehensive optometry services, Eye Associates partners with specialists from Midwest Eye Care, allowing patients to access specialized eye care services closer to home.

Eye Associates is located at 1501 E 7th Street in Atlantic. For more information about their services or to schedule an appointment call 712-243-7540.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Fireside Lounge on Thursday, May 14th, 2026 to welcome new owners Tim and Ruth Glines and learn more about the updates and new activities taking place at the business.

Tim and Ruth have been part of the Atlantic community for many years, including as owners of Affordable Heating and Air. After selling that business, the couple took some time to decide what their next chapter would look like. When the opportunity to purchase Fireside Lounge became available, they saw it as a fun new venture and a chance to continue investing in the community they call home.

Since taking possession of the business in January of 2026, Tim and Ruth have introduced several new additions and expanded offerings at Fireside Lounge. Updates include increased open hours, the addition of a golf simulator room, karaoke nights, pool leagues, and additional game nights designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers. The couple has also expanded the menu with additional food options, including daily lunch and supper specials throughout the week.

The Glines also shared information their 2-person golf simulator scramble and silent auction fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting The Gathering, a nonprofit volunteer group that organizes, prepares, and delivers free meals to residents in need.

Fireside Lounge is located at 504 W 7th Street in Atlantic. For more information about special, events, and more visit Fireside Lounge on Facebook or call 712-243-2426.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited the Nishna Valley Family YMCA on Thursday, April 30th to learn more about recent programs and events that support families and youth in the community.

During the visit, Monica Brandt shared about the Parents as Teachers program, which partners with families to support early childhood development. Through home visits and community connections, the program helps strengthen parenting practices, improve school readiness, support family health and well-being, and connect families to resources. It also plays an important role in early detection of developmental delays and building stronger community connections.

The Ambassadors also heard from Leslie Haynes, Director and Head Teacher of Jack & Jill Preschool, who shared that enrollment for four-year-old preschool is now open. Four-year-old preschool is free in the state of Iowa, while three-year-olds may enroll for a small fee. Jack & Jill provides a safe, engaging environment where children grow physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally, with a focus on well-rounded learning and family connection.

Staff also highlighted the After School Snack Program, which provides nutritious snacks to children after school five days a week, helping bridge the gap between school dismissal and supper. While supported by Jack & Jill staff, the YMCA is seeking volunteers to help prepare, serve, and clean up while creating a welcoming space for kids.

The Ambassadors also heard from KiKi Roland, Fitness Coordinator, who shared information about a new program called Above + Beyond Cancer. This program’s mission is to elevate the mind, body, and spirit of patients, survivors, and caregivers throughout the cancer journey. Above + Beyond Cancer offers evidence-based, free programs designed to support recovery and prevention for cancer survivors and the broader community. The program includes a variety of opportunities such as fitness classes, yoga, meditation, nutrition education, a book club, and a cancer education series, all aimed at promoting overall wellness and connection.

Executive Director Dan Haynes also shared details about an upcoming Community BBQ & Skate Night on May 8th at the Nishna Valley Family YMCA. The event will include live music, yard games, and food prepared by Noble Provisions and the Cass County Cattlemen. The BBQ will be served from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with skating from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Meal tickets are $5 per person which includes a hamburger or hot dog, chips, beans, and a drink. Skating is $2 per person for members or $5 per family. For non-members, skating is $5 per person or $20 per family.

The Nishna Valley Family YMCA is located at 1100 Maple Street in Atlantic. For more information about programs, events, or membership information, visit www.nishnavalleyymca.com or call 712-243-3934.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors were hosted by Vision Atlantic board members at Camblin Hills Development on Thursday, April 16th to tour several newly completed homes and learn more about the progress of this major housing project in Atlantic.

During the visit, the Ambassadors toured recently constructed single-family homes and short-term rental units, often referred to as “tiny homes,” and learned more about the overall vision for the 49-acre development.

Vision Atlantic is planning to build 48 homes in 2026, with 31 single-family homes, along with the 10 tiny homes, currently under construction and an additional seven larger custom homes expected later this year. The custom homes will range from 1,800 to 1,900 square feet, while the single-family “cottages” the Ambassadors toured range from 1,250 to 1,373 square feet on the main level and include two-car garages.

In addition to single-family homes, the development includes 10 “tiny homes” that will be owned by Vision Atlantic and used as short-term rentals. These units are designed to accommodate visitors to the community, including families, wedding guests, and traveling professionals.

The first homes are expected to be available for offers beginning May 1st through local realtors. Ambassadors noted that this level of residential development has not been seen in Atlantic since 1978, highlighting the significance of the project for the community’s growth.

Once complete, Camblin Hills Development will feature approximately 140 homes, along with a 300-spot childcare center, a playground, and two miles of walking trails, creating a neighborhood designed to support families and enhance quality of life in Atlantic.

Vision Atlantic’s Project Committee is actively working to secure the remaining $4.8 million needed to meet their fundraising goal. Those interested in helping transform Atlantic, whether through monetary donations or volunteer efforts, are encouraged to contact Vision Atlantic at visionatlanticiowa@gmail.com. For updates and additional information about the project, visit www.visionatlantic.org or follow Vision Atlantic on Facebook.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors celebrated Ridge Top Tree Service on Thursday, March 19th at the Rock Island Depot, recognizing the business as a new addition to the local community.

Ridge Top Tree Service is based out of Anita, Iowa and is owned and operated by Zack Wahlert and Blake Butcher. The business was established in October of 2025 and is fully licensed and insured, providing reliable and professional tree care services to the area.

Ridge Top Tree Service offers a variety of services including tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding, storm cleanup, and land clearing. They also provide free estimates, making it easy for customers to plan and budget for their projects. Blake shared that winter and early spring are ideal times for tree work, as frozen ground conditions help minimize impact to lawns and surrounding property during service. Looking ahead, Zack and Blake plan to continue growing the business by working toward becoming certified arborists.

For more information about Ridge Top Tree Service or to request an estimate, contact 712-249-3273 or visit their Facebook page.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors joined Scott Bennett and the NISHNANET team on Thursday, March 12th to celebrate the completion of the business’s new office with a ribbon cutting.

Scott shared that the new location, 205 State street, has been a long time coming. He had been searching for a space that would allow the business to store equipment, supplies, and vehicles in one central location. Scott thanked the many local businesses that helped make the renovations possible, noting that services and materials for the project were sourced locally whenever possible.

Scott and his family moved to Atlantic in 2012 to pursue the small-town dream and start a business focused on serving rural communities. NISHNANET has been in business since that time, providing reliable internet service to rural residents and business customers. The Ambassadors first visited the business about eight years ago when they celebrated NISHNANET connecting its very first customer.

Today, NISHNANET continues to grow while staying committed to its goal of providing consistent pricing, dependable service, and reliable internet. In addition to internet service, NISHNANET also provides a range of IT solutions, including copiers, televisions, door access systems, security cameras, audio/video installations, and more.

Scott also shared that supporting the community is an important part of NISHNANET’s mission. The business regularly provides technology and internet services to nonprofit organizations and community events. Examples include free Wi-Fi and technical support during the Cass County Fair, RAGBRAI events, and public Wi-Fi in downtown Atlantic, though these are just a few of the many ways the business works to give back to the community.

NISHNANET is located at 205 State Street in Atlantic. For more information call (712) 243-2497 or visit- https://www.nishnanet.com. Be sure to keep up with NISHNANET on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nishnanet.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited with Grace McAfee, Cass County Wellness Coordinator, and Megan Roberts, Director of Public Health, on March 5th, 2026, to learn about a new opportunity designed to strengthen volunteerism and community engagement across Cass County.

During the visit, McAfee shared details about the Cass County Volunteerism Grant, a new program that will provide $4,000 in funding to selected nonprofits, schools, government agencies, and community groups. The program was developed after feedback from recent Community Health Needs Assessment surveys, where many local organizations repeatedly identified a shortage of volunteers as a major hurdle to expanding their impact and services.

In addition to funding, participating organizations will receive support through training sessions, staff assistance, and increased visibility for their volunteer efforts. The program includes 12 hours of required in-person training, with at least two team members from each participating organization attending the sessions. Organizations will also have access to optional one-on-one coaching through Volunteer Iowa and Healthy Cass County to help strengthen their volunteer programs.

A key component of the initiative will be a community Day of Service, planned for late summer. Participating organizations will host volunteer opportunities and track community participation, encouraging residents to work together in service to Cass County.

Applications for the Cass County Volunteerism Grant are due by noon on April 1, 2026. Grace emphasized that the goal of the program is to provide organizations with tools and resources that help turn funding into lasting community impact while strengthening the culture of volunteerism across Cass County.

Organizations interested in learning more about the grant opportunity are encouraged to contact Grace McAfee at 712-250-8170 or mcage@casshealth.org

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors were hosted by the staff of Cass County Extension on Thursday, February 26th, where they welcomed a new team member and learned more about the organization’s programs and services.

During the visit, Kate Olson, Director, introduced the Ambassadors to Judy Sandbothe, who joined the Extension team as office assistant at the end of 2025. Olson also shared an overview of the structure and purpose of Cass County Extension, explaining that the organization is funded through property tax support, program revenue, grants, and partnerships. As a tax-levying body, Extension works to provide research-based education and resources to residents across the county.

Extension programming supports individuals and families through a wide range of opportunities, including agriculture and natural resources education, youth development, family and consumer science programming, nutrition and wellness education, and community leadership initiatives. These programs aim to strengthen local farms, families, businesses, and communities by connecting residents with trusted information from Iowa State University.

Katie Bateman, Youth Coordinator, highlighted the impact of local 4-H programming, which operates under the motto “Making the Best Better.” Cass County 4-H currently serves 194 youth in grades 4 through 12, along with 68 younger participants in Clover Kids for kindergarten through third grade. The county is home to 10 4-H clubs and five Clover Kids clubs, all made possible through the dedication of 35 volunteers who support youth development and hands-on learning experiences.

The Ambassadors appreciated learning more about the educational programs, leadership opportunities, and community partnerships supported by Cass County Extension and the important role the organization plays in serving residents of all ages.

For more information on Extension programming visit their website at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/cass or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CassCoIAExt.

The Cass County Extension office is located at 805 W. 10^th St., Atlantic and is open Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM.