The Week in Social rounds up the best of Iowa’s uplifting stories, exciting initiatives and fun events from all 99 counties discovered through social media. In a time where every bit of good news is cherished, this series is devoted to being a fun, lighthearted way to stay informed about Iowa’s good news.
Iowa Is the First State to Honor Family-Friendly Employers
Iowa now the first state in nation to honor family-friendly employers https://t.co/5b4Tt8ttx6
— Local 4 WHBF (@WHBF) January 12, 2022
Iowa has long been known as one of the best states to raise a family and continues this distinction by being the first state to honor family-friendly employers. The Iowa Economic Development Authority announced that Iowa will recognize employers with family-friendly policies with a Best Place for Working Parents designation. This designation recognizes employers with family-friendly policies such as workplace flexibility, paid time off and childcare assistance. Employers of all sizes can quickly determine whether they qualify for the designation through a confidential online self-assessment.
“This new program recognizes employers for their investments in childcare, helps them attract and retain working parents, and encourages competition and continued investment in Iowa’s families,” said Gov. Kim Reynolds.
Visit the Castle Overlooking the Mississippi
I spy ... a castle tower overlooking the Mississippi River. ?? Do you, too? That's the Julien Dubuque Monument at Mines of Spain Recreation Area, a scenic hiking spot in northeast Iowa. (And it's a #midwestmoment too.) ??: @elevated_images @traveliowa @minesofspain @TravelDubuque pic.twitter.com/hJsXTIbKgS
— Midwest Living (@MidwestLiving) January 14, 2022
Known as the land that Iowa settlers once discovered, Dubuque’s Mines of Spain Recreation Area offers the perfect mix of outdoor recreation and history. A short hike in the area will lead you to a spot that sits above the edge of the Mississippi where the castle-like Julien Dubuque Monument stands. The monument is a landmark built in 1897 and displays late gothic revival architecture.
While in the area, you can also visit the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center to see exhibits and displays about the history of the park. Before heading out, visit the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Trail and the surrounding nature area which offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
A Good Excuse to Eat Pizza
#Roadtrip to celebrate National #Pizza Week with Quad Cities style pizza. What's QC-style pizza? It's all about the crust, the sauce, the sausage, the assembly, and the cut. Here's where you can try this special pie for yourself! @visitqc #foodie https://t.co/qvQp6hx5DV pic.twitter.com/tHdsHzFO8M
— MidwestTravelJournalists (@J1Midwest) January 11, 2022
In recognition of National Pizza Week, our friends at Visit Quad Cities shared recommendations on some of the best QC pizza places to try out. Food & Wine named Quad Cities’ style pizza as the “best pizza you’ve never tried” thanks to its hand-tossed crust, zesty sauce, flavorful sausage and a heavy layer of mozzarella cheese to create a rich finish. If you want to order a local favorite, try the taco pizza topped with refried beans, spiced meat, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and Doritos chips. Whatever your choice of toppings may be, Quad Cities’ pizzerias are sure to offer some brag-worthy pizzas.
Experience a Dairy Barn Getaway
Sleep with the Cows at New Day Dairy Guest Barn: A True Iowa Experience - https://t.co/mfqiNyz0Q7 via @FlintKaty #thisisiowa #traveliowa #MWTravel
— Flint & Co (@FlintKaty) January 12, 2022
Curious as to what life on a dairy farm is like? You can get firsthand experience by visiting the New Day Dairy GuestBarn located in Clarksville. This unique bed and breakfast offers a cozy and comfortable stay on a working dairy farm. The lounge offers a view of the 150 cows in the barn through two large loft windows, perfect for cow gazing while enjoying a continental breakfast. Plus, every stay comes with a tour of the barn where you can pet a cow, take some great pictures and learn about life on the farm. The stay is perfect for families, complete with farm toys, evening stargazing and a warm firepit. While you are in the area, you can also enjoy biking, white water rafting and exploring historic sites.
