In a post in the popular local Facebook group “Eagle Grove Area Good Neighbors” local Ashley Vaala got quite a conversation going with the question, “what is a small business you’d like to see in Eagle Grove?”
Replies ranged from the nostalgic for businesses of the past to the entrepreneurial for the businesses of the future. Those reminiscing about the places they missed mentioned the Twiins Shoppe ice cream parlor and restaurant, Knutzon’s plumbing, the Princess theater, the Tin Lizzie store, Sam’s Chinese, and the old roller skating rink.
Charlie Angelina Buhr was one of those making a more entrepreneurial response. “If I had the money I’d open up a Twiins Shoppe again,” Buhr wrote. “I worked there for 7 years and it was my baby.” Support for that idea came from Crystal Hovland, who responded “I want a Twiins burger so bad”. Stacy Streitilmeir Lenning pined for a Twiin Bacon, “Seriously, I have dreams about it.” Eric Douglas concurred, “Twiin Bacon, that was my jam.” “Yes please,” Kylie Reane Hill chimed in. “My favorite, dipped in nacho cheese,” Whiney Willard said of the beloved, now unavailable sandwich. But there was demand for more than the Twiins Bacon, “the variety of ice cream was great too… Sure miss that,” T Marie Snyder said. “I would agree,” Laura Tincher said.
Kiesha Johnson, also on the entrepreneurial train of thought, said “I thought about opening up a grooming shop.” An idea which got several likes. It is definitely a business in demand, as evidenced by the growth of businesses in nearby towns such as the Wag Swag dog spa in Fort Dodge, the Paw Print Pad in Webster city, and Pampered Pets Retreat & Spa, which just might be the fastest growing business in Kanawha.
Many commenters were surprised to be informed that Eagle Grove already has a business along the lines of what they’d like to see.
“Rails, Casey’s, and B and S all make great pizza,” Douglass said, for those missing the Godfather’s Pizza. Brooke Terwilliger reminded people of Nine & Dine at the golf course for those looking for something other than Mexican, burgers, or pizza, “we have a variety of food options,” Terwilliger said. Which prompted Douglass to point out that while Nine & Dine might be a great place for those looking for something besides pizza, it’s also known for good pizza in it’s own right.
And Jennifer Christ Shild had another option for those craving the old Twiin Bacon, “have you had the Dirty Burger from Rails Bar & Grill? I have dreams about that one!!!”
Ann Shriver pointed out that there are many great breweries in Iowa, and she’d like to see them served locally. “We do have beers from Iowa brewers on tap at Rails,” Mindy Soper responded. “Right now we have Ruthie from Exile, and Easy Eddie from Big Grove! We hope to carry more in the future.”
Those wishing for a drive-through pharmacy were pleased to be told that the Eagle Pharmacy does curb-side delivery for those who call ahead, and home delivery. “They are wonderful” about it, Jason Cooper said. Those looking for a coffee shop were informed that the Naked Bean is open and serving up the caffeinated treats, including through a drive-through window. Though those looking for a drive through fast food restaurant (McDonalds, Dairy Queen, Arbys and Wendy’s were all mentioned) are still out of luck, though there is the Subway, and Casey’s for quick pickup meals.
“We can talk about what we want but we must also support them!” ~Nikki Ricks
Casse Rokes was thirsty for health drinks, “tea bombs are the best,” she remarked. Of course, Rokes can be excused for not knowing about Eagle Grove’s newest business, Slay Nutrition, which opened just a few weeks ago. But that didn’t stop other health drink fans from enthusiastically recommending Slay to Rokes. “It’s soooooo good,” Mollie McGrath gushed.
Those suggesting an antiques shop were reminded of Gramma’s Attic, “like an antique store but more retro,” said Nikki Rick, adding in perhaps the hardest hitting comment in the whole discussion, “we can talk about what we want but we must also support them!” Also mentioned was the antique store in Goldfield. And although it wasn’t mentioned in the discussion, Eagle Grove also boasts Arden Scott Collectibles, which has its share of antiques and is heaven for the music history buffs.
There was a lot of demand for more family friendly entertainment. “Family friendly things,” wrote Shelly Mohr. “Got enough places to drink just my opinion.” Chrystal Hovland, a moderator of the group, was looking for “a family friendly game place. With air hockey, ping pong, foosball, pool, and arcade games and tables for board games and activities.” Heidi Vote was looking for something similar, “a community place for kids to play games (air hockey, pool, ping-pong, etc.),” she wrote, pointing out that it would give the older kids a place to go that they wouldn’t ruin for younger kids. And those missing the skate rink were many. But they were all encouraged to check out the reopened Pinz bowling alley, on the edge of town headed towards Goldfield.
As for businesses that the community seems eager for and there is no current opportunity, there were a few to be sure. There was a strong reaction to the idea of a tanning salon, suggested by Vanessa Hiinckley. “Literally 100% agreed,” wrote Cayal Humphrey. “I 2nd this,” wrote Jessica Ashe. And April Mickelson Mason summed up the demand in one word and three exclamation marks, “Yes!!!”
Other ideas to get a lot of interest that Eagle Grove doesn’t have yet, are a bakery, a community garden, the aforementioned drive through fast food places and dog groomer, a thrift shop, and an art gallery. Clearly, there’s plenty of opportunity for those of an entrepreneurial spirit in Eagle Grove. The demand is there, the only question that remains is, who will supply it?
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