Dear Iowa,
When I visited you for the first time, I knew I wanted to live here. So, I packed up my family and skateboard business Street Plant from California and moved to Des Moines. As someone who’s traveled across the world and pays attention to cities, this is such an exciting place to be.
The four seasons make Iowa a great recreational destination, and Iowa’s commitment to bike trails across the state is unparalleled in the U.S. And, having my business be centrally located is much better for the company and e-commerce. Iowa natives have since embraced Street Plant and are excited to have a Midwest-based skateboard company.
Nevertheless, you continue to impress me. I was most surprised by the state’s restaurant and brewery atmospheres, and some of my favorite restaurants of all time are now here. The quality of food and service is incredible, and we eat out maybe more than we should.
I’m embracing Iowa and the Midwest with all my heart and soul, and I’m proud to have been accepted as an Iowan.
Sincerely,
Mike Vallely
Mike Vallely was born in New Jersey and moved to California to follow his dream of becoming a professional skateboarder. Throughout his career, he competed across the country and world. A trip to Des Moines placed the Iowa capital on his list of favorite places and inspired him years later to officially make the move.
