Daily Newsletters
Account
Washington Evening Journal
111 North Marion Avenue
Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
Small businesses care in big ways
As Mt. Pleasant prepares to crown its Small Business of the Year, five standout finalists show how hometown hustle keeps the local economy thriving
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT — In the heart of Mt. Pleasant, the community is coming together this week to honor the driving force behind its local economy: small businesses. As part of the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Week celebrations, five local companies have been named finalists for the 2025 Small Business of the Year award. The winner will be announced Friday morning at the Chamber’s annual Small Business Breakfast.
Among this year’s finalists is Family Medicine of Mt. Pleasant, a longtime fixture in local health care since 1990. At a celebration hosted Monday afternoon at their clinic on South White Street, staff and physicians reflected on their decades of service.
Dr. Kent Rynders and Dr. Kent Metcalf spoke warmly about their journeys from residency to practicing medicine in Mt. Pleasant as they welcomed guests to celebrate their nomination Monday, May 5.
“Every year it gets more and more exciting,” said Metcalf, who joined the clinic in 1999. “It’s an investment of time. You’re raising your family here, seeing families in the community, and you’re all going to Hy-Vee for the weekend specials. I love it.”
Metcalf and Rynders both came to Mt. Pleasant directly out of residency and credit their early mentors and a strong professional culture for the clinic’s longevity and impact.
“It would be neat to get an acknowledgment,” said Rynders, “but really, we’re just grateful to serve.”
Other finalists include Capstone Pharmacy, American Hair Academy, CrossFit Teo, and Quality Equipment Inc. — each representing different facets of the local economy, yet all exemplifying community-minded entrepreneurship.
Capstone Pharmacy, founded in 2015, operates on North Jefferson Street and has become a go-to source for personalized, accessible pharmaceutical care. Known for its convenient drive-through and knowledgeable staff, the pharmacy has earned praise for attentive customer service and responsiveness.
American Hair Academy, in operation since 1978, offers cosmetology education and salon services performed by supervised students. Located on South Iris Street, the academy draws students from surrounding counties and serves a dual mission of training professionals and providing affordable services.
In response to the nomination, the academy posted on social media: “Thankful for all our clients who help support the students' education and to whoever took the time to nominate us!”
CrossFit Teo, a fitness facility at 2555 Lexington Ave., focuses on inclusive, results-driven training. With coaches tailoring programs to all fitness levels, the gym has built a strong base of loyal members.
After receiving their nomination, the team shared their enthusiasm: “Exciting news! Thank you to all of our members who support us every day!”
Quality Equipment Inc., located on West Washington Street, specializes in the sale and rental of commercial and agricultural equipment. From mowers to trailers to forklifts, the company is known for reliable service and a broad inventory that supports local contractors and businesses alike.
These five finalists illustrate the diversity and resilience of Mt. Pleasant’s small business landscape. They not only provide essential services and employment but also help build a sense of place and belonging within the community.
In Henry County small businesses play a vital role in the local economy. According to Data USA, the county's economy employs approximately 9,510 people, with the largest industries being manufacturing (2,039 employees), health care and social assistance (1,457 employees), and retail trade (1,051 employees). These sectors are predominantly composed of small enterprises that provide essential services and employment opportunities to the community.
Recognizing and supporting these small businesses is crucial, as they foster economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life in Henry County. The upcoming announcement of the Small Business of the Year serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of these local enterprises.
As the community awaits Friday’s announcement, the recognition serves as a reminder of the profound impact small businesses have — whether in a clinic, a classroom, a gym, or on the job site. For these finalists, the nomination alone is a testament to years of dedication and the trust they’ve earned from the people they serve.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
