2 From the President Chamber Board Leadership

3 Economic Recovery Update Moonlight Bike Ride

4 Breaking Glass - September 22 CEO Conversations

5 Network-Walking Leadership North Iowa Registration

10 Checking in on Members YIELD Sponsorships Virtual Ag Breakfast Recap

11 Golf Outing Winners 2021 Best Businesses Directory

12 Upcoming Events

IN THIS ISSUE

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

Chamber Cup - September 17The Chamber Cup is an adult field day and team-building competition like no other. This half-day event is scheduled from 1-5PM on Thursday, September 17 in Central Park. Due to the pandemic and precautionary standards, the number of teams allowed to participate will be limited.

Businesses may enter teams of four people to compete in a variety of contests and relays. Challenges include a Hula Hoop Competition, High Heel Power Walk, and Office Chair Racing, to name a few. Events will vary in skill set, but do not require athleticism. It's all about having fun!

Once registered, an official team rulebook, scoring guideline, and waiver will be sent to the team captain. Each team will also receive a set of bandanas to be easily identified on the course. Matching uniforms are encouraged and will earn extra points!

The fee for a team is $100. To register, complete the enclosed registration form, visit masoncityia.com, or contact Kativa Weitzel at the Chamber (641.423.5724 or kweitzel@masoncityia.com).

Annual Meeting - October 1The pandemic has led to countless cancellations and closures - even Hollywood is shut down. But, “The Show Must Go On!” The 104th Annual Meeting is set for 10:30AM-Noon on Thursday, October 1 at Cinema West Theatre.

The Chamber Board of Directors is rolling out the red carpet and encouraging attendees to dress up in black tie attire (rumor has it the paparazzi will be out in full force, as Hugh Jackman has promised to attend… a cardboard cutout of Hugh, anyway). The Chamber has reserved all 10 auditoriums for the premiere, which will allow for ample

space to physically distance. Attendees can snack on complimentary movie theatre popcorn and soda while enjoying the show!

While this will be a unique event, many of the traditions will remain the same. The focus is on honoring individuals, businesses, and organizations for special achievements, including Distinguished Citizen, Small Business of the Year, Boss of the Year, and the Workplace Wellness award.

Tickets are $25 and may be purchased by contacting Kativa at the Chamber or by registering online at masoncityia.com. Businesses who would like the “VIP Experience” may inquire about reserving a private auditorium for their attendees and customers or business partners.

Sponsored by:

September 2020The mission of the Chamber of Commerce is to promote progressive community and

economic development to benefit Chamber members and the North Iowa region.

4:30-6:30PMThursday, September 24

North Iowa Events CenterOlson Building | 3700 4th St SW

Sponsored by:

Thank you to 98.7 KISS Country/103.7 The Fox for highlighting Business After Hours

on its stations!

Gold Sponsor:

The Show MUST Go On!aking the decision about holding our Annual Meeting next month was a hard one…and an easy one. We knew we couldn’t miss the opportunity to recognize the business leaders among our ranks who have demonstrated

perseverance, resilience, and service to others over the past several months.

And we’ve found a way to celebrate safely! Cinema West Theatre will be our host for the 104th Annual Meeting of the Chamber of Commerce. We’ve reserved all of the auditoriums to simultaneously view our program on the silver screen with pandemic-friendly movie snacks and beverages.

Many of us have become accustomed to a more casual wardrobe as we work from home or in businesses that are no longer open to the public. Jeans and yoga pants are just so comfy! Still, I hope you’ll catch the spirit and choose to dress up “red carpet style” to celebrate the accomplishments of our Small Business of the Year, Boss of the Year, Workplace Wellness Award winner, Distinguished Citizen, and more.

Mark your calendar now for this Movie Premiere Event! I’ll look forward to seeing when the doors open at 10:30AM on Thursday, October 1st at Cinema West Theatre. Be sure to get your movie snacks before the program begins at 11AM.

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

From the President

Robin AndersonPresident & CEO

M

New MembersARES OF NORTH IOWA | NORTHLAND COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

Josh Boehmer, ARES Team CoordinatorMason City, IA 50401info@ke0pou.comke0pou.com

The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes.

Chamber Board Leadership 2020-21The Chamber Board elected the following slate to serve the organization in leadership roles for the 2020-21 year. They will officially begin their duties following the Annual Meeting on October 1.Be Our Guest

Tune in Friday mornings to the “Be Our Guest” program with Joe Malone at 8:40AM on KRIB 1490 AM. This program is sponsored by Alpha Media.

Sept 4 United Way of North Central Iowa Angelina Perez

Sept 11 Talon LLC Steve Boote Sept 18 ARES of North Iowa Josh Boehmer

Sept 25 Loot by Louise Jenny Doughty

Bill PhillipsDVP Government AffairsHenkel Construction Co.

Dr. Steven SchulzDVP WorkforceNorth Iowa Area

Community College

Jane FischerChair-Elect

DVP Community & Membership

Jane Fischer & Associates

Danielle PaceTreasurer

Clear Lake Bank & Trust Co.

Andy Meyer Chairman of the Board

Bergland+Cram Architects

Tyler KerrPast Chairman

REG Mason City, LLC

Jeff Gribben DVP Small BusinessFirst Citizens Bank

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

MembershipRenewalsGovernor's Economic Recovery Update

Congratulations to the Chamber members celebrating membership anniversaries in September!

Seventy Plus YearsCerro Gordo Abstract Company (77)Midland Concrete Products (70)

Sixty Plus YearsGraham Tire Co. (68)

Fifty Plus YearsSchukei Chevrolet (55)

Forty Plus YearsMason City Ford Chrysler (40)

Thirty Plus YearsHogan - Hansen, P.C. (39)Principal Financial Group - Pension Center (39)Mason City Community Theatre (38)Air Care, Inc. (36)Askeland & Zirbel, CPAs (35)Wal-Mart SuperCenter (35)Wells Fargo Advisors (34)Charlie Brown Preschool and Child Care (34)Four Oaks of Iowa (31)Mason City Clinic (31)American Cancer Society (30)City Center & Kent Apartments (30)MacNider Art Museum (30)MercyOne North Iowa Hospice (30)

Twenty Plus YearsFloor to Ceiling Store (29)Brown's Shoe Fit Co. (28)Grunwald & Kiger Fine Jewelers (28)Boy Scouts of America-Winnebago Council (27)Papa's American Cafe (27)Benchmark Agribusiness, Inc. (26)Wendy's (26)First Citizens Bank (25)North Iowa Area Council of Governments (25)

n late June, Governor Reynolds appointed a 15-member Economic Recovery Advisory Board to help the State of Iowa to Stabilize, Recover, and Grow in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ben McLean, the CEO of Ruan, serves as chairman. The board is charged with making recommendations to the governor by October 6th.

The board is divided into seven working groups: Agriculture, Connectivity, Economic Growth, Education, Government, Public Health/Health Care, and Workforce. Each working group is co-chaired by two advisory board members and the director of a state government department.

Emily Schmitt, General Counsel for Chamber member Sukup Manufacturing in Sheffield, is co-chair of the Government working group. Chamber CEO Robin Anderson serves on the Government Structure subgroup for this working group.

In addition to meeting separately from the Advisory Board, most of the working groups held listening sessions for the public to provide input. Some initial ideas have emerged from these sessions:

• The state should create a master data management plan• Many state government jobs could be performed remotely—increasing the talent pool

of prospective state employees• Broadband connectivity needs to be consistent, reliable, and fast• Every Iowa high school student should have a workplace learning experience• The state should improve access to childcare and telehealth• The “This Is Iowa” branding should be expanded to include Agriculture

Although the Economic Recovery Advisory Board is completing their work according to an aggressive schedule, citizen input is encouraged. To learn more about this initiative or to submit input, visit the website at governor.iowa.gov/economic-recovery.

Moonlight Bike RideOn August 21, nearly 100 riders pedaled their way through Mason City at the 2020 Moonlight Bike Ride! Participants stopped for a snack at the NIACC half-way point and finished the ride with breakfast burritos from Mr. Taco on the Downtown Plaza. The Worksite Wellness Committee organized the Moonlight Bike Ride to promote health and well-being for members of the community.

I

eptember’s Breaking Glass Leadership Series session, sponsored by First Citizens Bank, features Mason City’s own Deadra Stanton. This event is set for 8AM on Tuesday, September 22 on the Third Floor of the Commerce Center,

with a Zoom option.

Deadra Stanton is an entrepreneur, a nation-wide motivational speaker, and was an English, Speech, and Theatre teacher for more than 38 years. She is an honors graduate of Mankato State University and holds a Masters degree in Education from St. Mary’s University. With majors in Speech Communications, Theatre Arts, and Business Administration, she brings a diverse background to the podium.

Deadra will share her experience in "breaking the glass ceiling" as a woman in the business world. She will also touch on how the experience of testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this year has changed her perspective. Nothing can stop this motivated woman from reaching her goals.

Tickets are $10 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. Contact Kativa Weitzel (kweitzel@masoncityia.com) to register.

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

Membership Renewals (cont.)

SBreaking Glass - September 22

CEO ConversationsCEO Conversations is an educational series held during the lunch hour, led by well-recognized CEO's offering sage advice to participants. The next session is set from 11:30AM-1PM on Thursday, September 10, at the Commerce Center. Physical distancing and sanitation measures will be in place for a safe meeting.

Tony Brownlee, President of Kingland, was originally scheduled for March, but now headlines the September program. Brownlee is responsible for all business operations for Kingland. Joining the global software company in 2003, his work with

Kingland began by helping found their third generation platform that expanded their company reach. Brownlee continues to be

instrumental in leading the company to further growth.

Sessions are limited to 20 guests to encourage thoughtful, valuable conversations. Tickets are available for $20 each. Contact Kativa Weitzel (kweitzel@masoncityia.com) for more information.

The August session of CEO Conversations featuring Steve Sukup and Kurt Herbretchsmeyer had a great turnout. Both CEOs agreed embracing change, asking questions and taking strategic action helps in achieving goals.

Thank you to First Citizens Bank, series sponsor of CEO Conversations.

Fifteen Plus Years (cont)Robinson Farm Real Estate (24)Federal Express (24)Helena Agri-Enterprises (23)Community Kitchen of North Iowa, Inc. (23)Riddles Jewelry (22)Veenstra & Kimm, Inc. (20)Stebens Children's Theatre (20)Thrivent Financial (20)

Fifteen Plus YearsFOX 47 KXLT, KTTC/NBC, KWWL/NBC Waterloo, CW, MeTV and H&I (19)LifeServe Blood Center (19)Mike Korthals OD (16)Amish Heirlooms (16)Diamond Jo Casino - Worth Co. (15)

Ten Plus YearsOmniTel Communications (14)Surf Ballroom & Museum (12)American Realty & Management Inc. (10)

Five Plus YearsMason City Red Power, Inc. (9)Visit Mason City (8)Nora Springs Care Center (8)Air Choice One (6)North Iowa Cooperative (6)St. John's Episcopal Church (6)First Congregational United Church of Christ (6)MC Home Inspections (5)Mint Springs Dentistry (5)Prime N Wine (5)

One Plus YearsMason City Earth Day (4)Thai Bistro (4)Cleaning Solutions (3)River City Iowa Realty (3)Exchange Club of Mason City (3)Market 124 (3)Medical Associates Health Plans (3)Mason City Youth Baseball Association (2)Aflac Insurance (1)My Fair Trade (1)North Iowa Cleaning (1)

Deadra Stanton

Tony BrownleeKingland

oin the Chamber's Wellness Committee for a quick afternoon walk from 11-11:30AM on Wednesday, October 7 through downtown Mason City during Network-Walking! This activity can help build meaningful connections and casual conversation

on the move. Network-Walking supports Iowa’s Healthiest State Initiative walk.

The Healthiest State Initiative invites all Iowans to take this first “step” in building a healthier lifestyle and encourages Iowans to make walking 30 minutes part of a daily routine. To register for the walk, contact Kativa at the Chamber or follow the link below!

www.iowahealthieststate.com/events/walk-details/3646/

To join the Worksite Wellness Committee and help plan wellness-related programs, contact Program Director Kativa Weitzel at kweitzel@masoncityia.com.

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

Premier MembersNetwork-Walking

J Thank you to the Premier Members who have gone above and beyond in their support of the Chamber programs, events, and the North Iowa Band Festival. These members have made commitments to Investor Packages or supported the many events, sponsorships, andmarketing opportunities of the Chamber.

GOLD $6,000+Cargill ProteinClear Lake Bank & Trust Co.First Citizens BankHoliday Inn Express and Suites - Mason CityJane Fischer and Associates LLCMercyOne North Iowa Medical Center POET Biorefining - Hanlontown

SILVER $3,000-$5,999Century 21 Preferred Diamond Jo Casino - Worth Co.North Iowa Area Community College

BRONZE $1,000-$2,99998.7 KISS Country / 103.7 The Fox KIOW 107.3 / KCHA 95.9Bergland + Cram ArchitectsCENT Credit UnionFarmers State BankFirst Security BankHenkel Construction Co.NSB BankREG Mason City, LLCSmithfieldWells Fargo BankYoung Construction of North Iowa

Leadership North Iowa RegistrationLeadership North Iowa (LNI) 2021 is set to begin in January for its 37th consecutive year. The Chamber’s well-known leadership program continues to develop future leaders in North Iowa. LNI participants learn lifelong skills and are able to connect with both emerging and established leaders in the region. Employers find LNI graduates are more engaged in their community, have a greater appreciation of North Iowa, and are more committed to staying in the area after completing the program.

TUITIONTuition for LNI is $395 for Chamber members or $500 for non-members, and includes $50 toward a service club membership of choice, instruction fees, study materials, refreshments, and graduation reception. Tuition may be paid by the employer, sponsoring organizations, or by the participant.

TIME COMMITMENTTo receive the full value LNI offers, each participant is expected to attend class sessions held each Thursday from January 7 - March 25, and a graduation ceremony on April 1. Class times vary, however, most sessions are 2-3 hours during the workday.

REGISTRATIONRegistration is now open! Due to limited enrollment, applicants are encouraged to register soon to ensure acceptance into the program. Registration forms can be downloaded online at masoncityia.com or register by contacting Allyson Krull at the Chamber (akrull@masoncityia.com | 641.423.5724).

Connect with Visit Mason City!

@MasonCityIowa @VisitMasonCity @VisitMasonCityIowa

RREEMMIINNDDEERR:: The next round of applications for the tourism marketing grant program are due on October 30, 2020. Applications are available online at www.visitmasoncityiowa.com/tourism‐marketing‐grant/

NEXT GRANT APPLICATION DEADLINE IS 4PM ON OCTOBER 30!

641.422-1663 / 800.423.5724 www.VisitMasonCityIowa.com cvb@VisitMasonCityIowa.com

Visit Mason City recently released a new video highlighting the community as a great place to visit, live and do business.

Created in partnership with Travel Iowa, the video showcases Mason City’s unique tourism offerings while also sharing testimonials.

“We wanted to tell the story of all the things that make Mason City special—the architecture, our appreciation of art, history and culture, and our musical heritage–while also sharing the passion behind recent efforts that have transformed our community,” said Lindsey James, Executive Director.

“We wanted the video to appeal not only to potential visitors but also to prospective new residents and businesses. I think we accomplished that. The crew from HearstTV really helped us capture the beauty and creative energy of our city.”

The 3-minute video is available on VMC’s YouTube and social channels and will be used in VMC’s digital marketing campaign. The video will also be featured as part of a 12-part series promoted by Travel Iowa.

Local residents and businesses are encouraged to share the “This Is Mason City” video on their website, social channels, and recruitment efforts as well.

Visit Mason City releases new video

Our mission is to enhance, promote, and preserve Downtown Mason City as a diverse business, cultural, and residential destination for the benefit of the entire community.

9 N. Federal Ave., Mason City, IA 50401 | director@mainstreetmasoncity.com | 641.494.0003

September 2020

Our Community Survey Results

AT A GLANCEMain Street Mason City won a grant called ‘Ready 2 Recruit’ and a part of that grant was the prospect survey that was sent out from July 23rd- August 6th. The results of this survey will benefit our recruitment efforts by helping us learn how people in our communities are spending their time and money. We are very thankful for all of those that took the time to fill out this survey. With your participation, we have received some very insightful information and are committed to driving efforts towards the areas that have gaps. The results listed here only touch the surface of the data that we received, so stay tuned for more on how we can work to improve our downtown district.

1,874 surveys sampled with

53% describing pre-COVID trends in Downtown Mason City as

“Improving or Making Progress”

EATING & DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTSPIZZERIA & GRILL - 27%

BAKERY - 18% HEALTHY MENU - 17%

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH - 12%

Top Features: Top Features: Top Features: Top Features:

Fresh toppings variety

Donuts and pastries

Grilled wraps/fajitas

Scrambles and skillets

Outdoor seating Fresh breads Steak, poultry, etc.

Griddle selections

Personal/By the slice

Cookies and brownies

Meal prep and to-go

Omelets and frittatas

RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTSSPECIALTY FOODS - 22%

BOOKSTORE - 20%

OUTDOORS - 17%

WOMEN’S - 15%

Top Features: Top Features: Top Features: Top Features:

Locally sourced foods

New books School/team sports

Casual wear

Artisan foods Used books Running gear Athletic/ Activewear

Organic foods Cards, gifts, souvenirs

Physical fitness gear

Dress/Casual shoes

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATIONFAMILY INDOOR - 27%

CITY MARKET - 25%

MOVIE THEATER - 24%

ADULTS INDOOR - 13%

Top Features: Top Features: Top Features: Top Features:

Trampoline area Local foods Discount movies Alcoholic beverages

Climbing wall Live music Dine-in movies Go-kart racing

Arcade games Cheese shop First-run movies Arcade games

Robert Klocke, Chairman of the Board First Citizens Bank

Diane Fischels, Vice Chair Mercy Medical Center - North Iowa

Scott Smed, Treasurer Bergland + Cram

Paul Stevenson Clear Lake Bank & Trust

Nate Carney, Past Chairman Dean Snyder Construction

Mayor Nelson Crabb City of Clear Lake

Mayor Bill Schickel City of Mason City

Supervisor Tim Latham Cerro Gordo County

Dr. Steven Schulz North Iowa Area Community College

Aaron Burnett City of Mason City

Tom Meyer Cerro Gordo County

Scott Flory City of Clear Lake

Kent Brcka Henkel Construction

Collin Davison Heiny Law Firm

Mark Ebeling City of Clear Lake

Christy Marchand Golden Grain Energy

Marty Mensen Alliant Energy

Gary Pyle Principal Financial Group

Dave Versteeg Mason City Community School District

Officers:

Ex-Officios:

Directors:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAD SCHRECK PRESIDENT & CEO

cschreck@northiowacorridor.com

SHAUN ARNESON VP, EXISTING BUSINESS & PROJECT

MANAGEMENT sarneson@northiowacorridor.com

HUNTER CALLANAN WORKFORCE SPECIALIST

hcallanan@northiowacorridor.com

North Iowa Corridor EDC 9 North Federal Mason City, Iowa 50401 NorthIowaCorridor.com

MASON CITY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS HELP BUSHEL BOY PROJECT GROW

IN THE

SEPTEMBER 2020

JOYCE MARTINMARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

COORDINATORjmartin@northiowacorridor.com

OVER 60 MASON CITY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS pulled together on Thursday, July 23rd and Friday the 24th to help Bushel Boy install the liner in their newly excavated retention pond. The pond will capture all of the rainwater from the 18 acres of the Bushel Boy greenhouse facility roof for use as crop irrigation water. Bushel Boy, a leading Midwest producer of hydroponic tomatoes, is building the first phase of what will be a 50-acre, high-tech greenhouse facility in Mason City – one of the largest greenhouses in Iowa. When the first phase is completed, Bushel Boy will provide approximately 50 full-time jobs at the facility.

The morning’s work proved to be a team-building exercise for the Mason City High School students, most of whom play for the football team. Bushel Boy is making a donation to the MCHS Athletic Fund in thanks for their efforts. John Lee, head football coach at MCHS, said “What I love about Mason City is the sense of community and partnership. This project is a great example of private and public partners working together for benefit of all in the community.”

Aaron Sumption, Vice President Sales & Marketing for Bushel Boy Farms, said, “At Bushel Boy Farms, we are extremely excited to join the Mason City community with the addition of our new vegetable greenhouse on the south side of town. We are so impressed by the support of the community leaders, schools, and residents. It is our hope that we continue to build on these relationships and look for additional opportunities to partner together.”

The first phase of the project is on track to be complete later this fall, with operations intended to begin by December.

“NIACC does not discriminate in employment or education. See http://www.niacc.edu/about/non-discrimination-statement/ for additional information.”

www.pappajohncenter.com 500 College Drive, Ste 120

Mason City, IA 50401

Upcoming Events Start Smart Workshop

September 2: 6:00—8:00 pm; Zoom Online Session

September 16: 6:00-8:00 pm; Zoom Online Session Registration is required, to get the Zoom link contact Mary Spitz-SBDC office at NIACC: 641.422.4342 or mary.spitz@niacc.edu.

The Pappajohn Center is Not Just for Startups Some of our best client success stories are helping existing businesses change. Existing businesses have huge advantages over startups. They have customers. They have a proven reputation. They have cash flow, experience, relationships, and more. But they often share one common bottleneck. Owners are entangled in running the day-to-day business and not looking ahead to what will be required in the future.

The fastest way to fail is, just keep doing what made you successful. Specifically during this pandemic, everything else around you is changing: customers, competitors, prices, technology, markets and more. Let us help you look ahead.

Spend some time on your business with the Pappajohn Center, not just in the business. Be a leader, not just an owner. Be intentional about the future of your business. Think like a startup with the resources of an experienced, up and running business. Everyone is counting on you to get it right.

Tim Putnam, Director

University of Iowa’s Venture School program is still accepting applications

The Pappajohn is still accepting applications for the fall 2020 cohort and will be held Thursday evenings, October 1st through November 19th. This will be predominately an online experience. The cost is $299 (for 2 team members). There will be an opportunity to compete for seed capital.

“As a new entrepreneur, I cannot thank the Pappajohn Center enough for the Venture School opportunity and additional mentoring assistance I have received. Over the past few months, I have been partnered with a mentor in an area that is my weakest link, at no cost to me, and I cannot tell you how grateful I am for these services! Having a mentor has relieved significant stress on me to figure everything out on my own and has given me more confidence that I am setting up my business with the best possible footing. “ - Molly Watson, owner of Home Style and Venture School graduate.

To apply for the fall 2020 cohort, go to: www.venture-school.com and select the Mason City cohort in the drop down menu.

ver the past month, Chamber staff have been contacting members to ensure businesses have access to resources and to update the Chamber’s membership records. Those who have not received a phone call should expect to hear from a staff member soon!

The updated records are used to create the 2021 “North Iowa’s Best Businesses” Membership Directory. This directory is one of the important benefits of Chamber membership. All members are listed both by business name and by category in the directory. Chamber staff strive to ensure the directory is as accurate as possible to reflect each member’s business in the best light.

As a reminder, the Chamber’s online directory can be updated at any time through the Member Information Center. There, members can also post events, special promotions, or job openings to the Chamber’s online database; register for Chamber events; view and pay invoices; and more.

Anyone with questions may contact Membership Director Colleen Frein at cfrein@masoncityia.com or 641.423.5724.

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

It’s not every day a business gets the opportunity to be prominently placed in front of 14,000+ people! Chamber members are encouraged to call now to reserve a space on the 2021 CMO (Chamber Members Only) Card. This is a great opportunity for members to advertise their services and encourage each other to shop with a Chamber member first.

For only $50, businesses can purchase a “square” to showcase a special deal reserved for Chamber Members Only. The discount will also be placed on a rotating basis in the weekly Chamber News emails and listed under “Hot Deals” on the Chamber website. Talk about getting a lot of bang for your buck!

CMO Cards are distributed to all Chamber member employees in December during Operation Thank You - a special day we reserve to THANK our members for their loyalty in person. If an employee would like to purchase additional cards for their family, the fee is only $5 per card.

Because of the nature of the card, this offer is limited to just 45 businesses. Call Membership Director Colleen Frein at the Chamber or email cfrein@masoncityia.com to reserve a spot today!

2021 CMO CardsChecking in on Members

O

Virtual Ag Breakfast RecapIowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig joined Chamber members virtually for the 38th Annual Ag Breakfast. Secretary Naig touched on the recent derecho, the impact of COVID-19 on agriculture, and opportunities for the future.

"As we think about what happens next, as we think about recovery, the premise here is not that we’re going to try to get back to where we were, we’re going to spring forward," he said. "We are still Iowa and we are still a strong agriculture state. It’s a good thing to be coming at recovery from a position of strength rather than just trying to hang on."

– Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig

TOURNAMENT SPONSOR

HOLE-IN-ONESPONSOR

YIELD SponsorshipsSince 2003, the Chamber has provided training for our future community leaders through YIELD (Youth Investing Energy in Leadership Development). High school juniors from Mason City recognized as good students and good citizens with leadership potential are selected to participate in the program. Students meet once/week for 16 weeks to participate in leadership training sessions, team-building exercises, and to complete a community impact project.

Businesses are invited to sponsor the program with a $100 contribution designated to student course tuition. Please contact Allyson at the Chamber (akrull@masoncityia.com) for more information or to become a sponsor of this valuable leadership program.

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com Fax 641.423.5725

2021 Best Businesses Directory

Wellness

Increase your exposure to the North Iowa business community by advertising in the Chamber’s annual “North Iowa’s Best Businesses” Membership Directory! The directory will include all Chamber members in alphabetical order and by business category.

A minimum of 800 copies will be distributed, and all Chamber members will receive a free directory during Operation Thank You in December. Directories are also distributed in relocation packages and membership packets.

Please contact Allyson via phone at 641.423.5724 or email at akrull@masoncityia.com by September 30 to place an advertisement.

MASON CITY RECEIVES WELLNESS FUNDING

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced expanded funding of 5-2-1-0 – Healthy Choices Count!, which began in 2017 in Iowa. Five new communities will receive grants, while eleven communities currently funded for the initiative will receive additional grants.

Mason City was chosen to receive additional 5-2-1-0 funding of $5,000. Past projects the community has implemented using these funds include: bike repair stations, veggie/fruit bands, indoor play area, dental hygiene services in daycares, and more.

The funded communities will work to create environments that support healthy choices. Bringing evidence-based strategies for healthy living into communities, schools, childcare and out-of-school programs, health care practices and workplaces, 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! reaches children and adults where they live, learn, work, and play.

Those interested in joining the Worksite Wellness committee to help plan the Moonlight Bike Ride, Workplace Seminars, and other wellness related programs, may contact Kativa Weitzel at kweitzel@masoncityia.com.

Thank you to the Golf Outing sponsors!

here was a great turnout for the Chamber Golf Outing and teams enjoyed the beautiful weather at the Mason City Country Club. Thanks to all of the sponsors and volunteers who made the golf outing a success!

Golf Outing Winners

Longest Drive (Men)

Jeff Reimers

Longest Drive (Women)

Jamie Smith

Longest Putt

Collin Shanks

Champions: Highland Park Golf CourseVoted "Best Hole Sponsor":Bergland + Cram Architects

Congratulations to the Winners!

T

TOURNAMENT SPONSOR

HOLE SPONSORS

HOLE-IN-ONESPONSOR

Chamber Leadership

Phone 641.423.5724 www.masoncityia.com chamber@masoncityia.com

Periodical Postage Paid at Mason City, Iowa(USPS 060-350)

Executive CommitteeTyler Kerr, Chairman of the Board REG Mason City, LLCAndy Meyer, Chair Elect Bergland+Cram ArchitectsRodney Huber, Past Chairman Huber Supply Co.Danielle Pace, Treasurer Clear Lake Bank & Trust Co.Jane Fischer, Community & Membership Division Vice President Jane Fischer & Associates, LLC Scott Smith, Government Affairs Division Vice President Diamond Jo Casino - Worth Co.Dr. Steve Schulz, Workforce & Leadership Division Vice President North Iowa Area Community College Jeff Gribben, Small Business Division Vice President First Citizens Bank

Board of DirectorsAndrew Johnston, Heiny, McManigal, Duffy, Stambaugh & Anderson, PLCJanelle Kruger, Kraft HeinzDr. Paul Manternach, MercyOne North Iowa Medical CenterJamie Nelson, 98.7 KISS Country/103.7 The FoxDr. Noemi Cruz-Orcutt, Mint Springs DentistryBill Phillips, Henkel Construction CompanyEvan Raulie, SmithfieldJessica Reith, Cargill ProteinJaci Smith, Globe GazetteBert Vigen, Nordic Home ImprovementsKatie Wold, Market 124Dan Young, Young Construction of North Iowa

StaffRobin Anderson, CCE, IOM President & Chief Executive Officer randerson@masoncityia.comAllyson Krull, IOM Marketing & Leadership Development Director akrull@masoncityia.com Colleen Frein, IOM Membership Director cfrein@masoncityia.comKativa Weitzel Program Director kweitzel@masoncityia.comStephanie Arneson Service & Operations Director/Community Concierge sarneson@masoncityia.com

This is a Mason City Chamber of Commerce Publication. Mason City, Iowa 50401 641.423.5724

Publications are monthly for $20 per year by the Mason City Chamber of Commerce, 9 North Federal Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401-3250. Second Class postage paid at Mason City, IA. Postmaster: send address changes to The Chamber, 9 North Federal Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401-3250.

Upcoming Events MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Get Involved/Committee Meetings

Networking Events

Professional Development

Chamber Cup | 1-5PMCentral Park | Downtown Mason City

CEO Conversations | 11:30AM-1PM3rd Floor Event Room | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

Breaking Glass Leadership Series | 8-9:30AM3rd Floor Event Room | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

Business After Hours - North Iowa Events Center 4:30-6:30PMOlson Building | North Iowa Events Center | 3700 4th St SW

ThursdaySept 17

ThursdaySept 10

TuesdaySept 22

Thursday Sept 24

Ambassador Meeting | Noon-1PMVirtual Zoom meeting

Wellness Committee | 3-4PMBoard Room & Virtual | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

TuesdaySept 1

TuesdaySept 15

October 1 Annual Meeting

October 7 Network-Walking

October