Last November, Mason City voters overwhelmingly supported ballot measures (by more than 75%) in favor of the proposed River City Renaissance project. In February, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) gave the project contingent approval for more than $9.1 million in state assistance through the Iowa Reinvestment Act program.

The plan includes:• a Courtyard by Marriott Hotel• a Conference Center capable of accommodating groups of more than 500 people in a

new facility adjacent to The Music Man Square• a SkyWalk connecting the new hotel to The Music Man Square• a multi-purpose arena in Southbridge that will accommodate ice sports and other

activities and events• an indoor/outdoor Performing Arts Pavilion in the redesigned Southbridge plaza

entrance

The multi-million dollar award—and the entire project—hinges on G8 Development receiving a financing commitment for the hotel. As of this writing, Phillip Chodur of G8 Development has submitted all of the required documentation to the bank that is considering this loan. When the contingent approval was initially granted, the IEDA set a deadline for the hotel developer to obtain financing by May 18. It was the understanding of many that failure to meet the deadline would most likely result in a denial of Mason City’s application. However, state officials are satisfied that progress is being made, and many of the IEDA board members feel almost as strongly as Mason City citizens about the importance of this project.

At this point, the IEDA board has determined they will delay final approval of the project until July. While this will affect several of the other partners in the project, the city’s Development Services Director Steven Van Steenhuyse stated "We feel that a financing decision is very, very close.”

The Chamber has been a strong supporter of this project for several years. Chamber leadership joins all of the project partners in exercising patience. Once final approval is obtained, it will be full steam ahead!

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

July 2018The mission of the Mason City Chamber of Commerce is to promote progressive community

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

2 From the President Nominations for Chamber Awards

3 Moonlight Bike Ride Last Call for South Africa

4 New Member Luncheon Cost of Living Index Update

5 August Lunch & Learns Krull Receives IOM Recognition

10 Save the Date: Annual Meeting Workplace Emergency Seminar Ag Tour - September 13

11 Ribbon Cuttings Wellness College Connections

12 Upcoming Events

IN THIS ISSUE

Time: 4:30-6:30PM

Date: Thursday, July 12

Location: Mason City Powersports 12499 265th St

Sponsored By:

Downtown Project Update

Using Our Strategic Plan

ow that North Iowa has invested in a strategic plan, it’s time to put this document to use!

Over the past year, numerous partners and community members have worked to create a vision for North Iowa’s future to proactively position our region for long-term growth and economic success. Vision North Iowa is the name of this strategic planning process, which is centered around one simple, but important purpose statement: Working together to improve the lives of all North Iowans. This statement captures the heart of why this planning effort began, how the planning effort is being executed, and who the plan is intended to serve.

The plan outlines a number of initiatives and goals, along with a timeline and the organization responsible for leading each effort. It will take discipline and resolve to stay on course. For too long, we have been in reactionary mode—the plan is intended to provide a road map for a proactive approach.

Your Chamber Board will be using this plan to continue its program of work related to progressive community and economic development. It is our hope that all of our community partners (city and county officials, NICEDC, NIACC, etc.) will NOT let this plan sit on a shelf, but rather—will keep it close at hand to refer to often as we work together toward our ambitious goals.

In the words of Benjamin Franklin: “Well done is better than well-said.” Indeed.

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

New Members

PATRIOT WINGS BAR & GRILLStacy Rucker, Operator9184 265th StClear Lake, IA 50428(641) 583-5221patriotwings3@gmail.com

Patriot Wings Bar & Grill serves travelers and North Iowa residents alike at their location at the Mason City Municipal Airport.

ACESJordan Shanks, Sales Manager5417 Nordic Dr Ste BCedar Falls, IA 50613(319) 266-9800sales@acesiowa.comwww.acesiowa.com

ACES has a program to serve unique IT Management and Support needs for businesses of all sizes. Focus on your business while they take care of your IT - from complex infrastructure planning and implementation to daily support needs of staff, they focus on helping maximize your IT investment in moving your mission forward.

AMERICAN RED CROSSTammy Lee, Executive Director(712) 252-4081www.redcross.org/ia

The American Red Cross directs disaster preparedness and response, blood collection, CPR/AED and First Aid training, support for veterans and military families, and connects families across the world separated by war or disease.

Robin AndersonPresident & CEO

From the President

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North Iowa is rich in successful small businesses and plenty of top-notch leaders. The region is also well-known for its strength in worksite wellness and employee well-being. Each year, the Chamber recognizes a small business, a leader, and a workplace that have made a significant impact within their organization or the business community.

Nominations are now open for the Small Business of the Year, Boss of the Year, and Workplace Wellness awards. Forms are available at the Chamber or at masoncityia.com under “Member Zone – Forms.” The deadline for nominations is Friday, August 24.Applications for the Small Business of the Year and Boss of the Year will be scored by the Events Committee. The Workplace Wellness Award will be scored by the Worksite Wellness Committee.

The recipients of all three awards, along with the Distinguished Citizen and the Ambassador of the Year award, will be announced at the Chamber’s 102nd Annual Meeting on Thursday, October 4.

Nominations Open for Chamber Awards

2017 Small Business of the Year recipient: Central Park Dentistry

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

The Chamber offers Global Familiarization Tours to expose members and friends of the Chamber to the global economy and other cultures of the world. This November, embark on an incredible adventure to spectacular South Africa, November 7-16. This is the final call for all who may be interested as very few seats remain. Contact Allyson (akrull@masoncityia.com) for details and to register.

SOUTH AFRICACape Town - Kruger National Park - JohannesburgTrip cost: $3,599 per person (double occupancy)Single supplement: $690

• International round-trip airfare from MSP and domestic airfare

• Transportation and hotel accommodations• Daily breakfast and 3 dinners• 4 Game Safaris in open-air 4x4 vehicles• English speaking guides & sightseeing fees

Optional Extension: Majestic Victoria FallsExtension cost: $1,299 per person (double occupancy) Single supplement: $290

Last Call for South Africa

Membership Renewals

Congratulations to the Chamber members celebrating their membership anniversaries in July!

Seventy Plus YearsMid-West Roofing Company/ Custom SheetMetal Works (78)

Sixty Plus YearsMason City Municipal Airport Commission (69)Lehigh Cement Company LLC (63)

Fifty Plus YearsEdwards-Brandt & Associates, Inc. (58)

Forty Plus YearsOverhead Door Company of Mason City (47)Central Lock Security, Inc. (45)Knudtson Real Estate, Inc. (40)

Thirty Plus YearsYSS Francis Lauer (30)

Twenty Plus YearsNorth Iowa Oral Surgery Associates, P.C. (28)Newman Catholic School System (26)Cerro Gordo County Auditor (25)

Fifteen Plus YearsAmes Photo Portrait & Imaging (19)St. James Lutheran Church (17)Country Inn & Suites By Radisson, Mason City (17)Mason City Roofing (16)Connect Hearing (16)Stoney Creek Hospitality Corporation (15)

Ten Plus YearsFed Ex Ground (14)North Iowa Bus Company, Inc. (14)Humane Society of North Iowa (14)Alter Metal Recycling (13)RDA Financial Network (12)Alpha Orthodontics (11)

n Saturday, July 28, the Chamber’s Worksite Wellness Committee will host the 2018 Moonlight Bike Ride. Organizers encourage community members to enter this fun event

as an individual or as a family.

Registration begins at 8:30PM. An Activity Zone will offer stations including bike licensing, safety, glow-in-the-dark decorations, live entertainment from local artist Ruthless Ruth, and more! At 10PM, participants will ride a 10-mile loop under the light of a full summer moon. A pit stop at NIACC will welcome riders and the route will end at Southbridge with breakfast from Mr. Taco. Admission is $25 for an individual and $50 for a family of four.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for this event. For more information or to register, contact Kativa Weitzel at the Chamber office at 641.423.5724 or kweitzel@masoncityia.com.

Endorsed by Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative (HSI), the Moonlight Bike Ride aligns with the goals of HSI for Iowa to become the healthiest state in the nation.

Project Partners: Main Street Mason City, Mason City Active Living & Transportation Commission, NIACC, Southbridge, Wayne’s Ski & Cycle

Moonlight Bike Ride - July 28

SponsorsFull Moon:

Half Moon:First Citizens BankNIACC

Crescent Moon:Clear Lake Bank & Trust Co.Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Starry Night:Country Meadow Place Henkel Construction Co.Smithfield

O

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

Be Our Guestune in Friday mornings to the Chamber “Be Our Guest” program at 8:40AM on KRIB 1490 AM. This

service is provided free of charge to members, courtesy of Alpha Media USA. Listen in for July’s guests!

July 6 Mason City Family YMCA Heath Hupke

July 13 Country Meadow Place Tony Buhr

July 20 ACES Jordan Shanks

July 27 American Red Cross Tammy Lee

T

Membership Renewals (cont)

Mason City continues to rank favorably among similar Iowa communities when it comes to cost of living. The Chamber participates in research to assist the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) in producing the quarterly index. Raw data from 263 metropolitan and micropolitan areas across the United States is analyzed to compare the cost of living in various geographic locations.

The index is based on six components—housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, health care, and miscellaneous goods and services. In the most recent survey, Mason City compares favorably among participating Iowa communities with a composite score of 88.5. Ames has the highest cost at 98.2 followed by Waterloo/Cedar Falls (97.8), Dubuque (93.3) the Quad Cities (92.7), and Des Moines-West Des Moines (91.4). Burlington has the lowest cost at 83.6.

According to Chamber President Robin Anderson, Mason City typically ranks as a good value in this quarterly survey. “Mason City consistently ranks as one of the most cost-effective places to live. Although the utilities are high in comparison to other communities, Mason City’s housing, transportation, groceries, and health care are significantly lower than other Iowa communities and similarly-sized cities in the Midwest,” she said. “Cost of living is an important factor in determining the best places for businesses to locate and expand. Mason City can certainly tout its affordability.”

The most recent data for Mason City and comparable Midwest communities is illustrated in the chart below. (100.0 represents the mean; a low percentage is interpreted as a low cost of living.)

City & Composite Score

Groceries Housing Utilities Transportation Health Care Misc. Goods & Services

Mason City 88.5 92.8 72.7 102.8 88.5 92.7 95.1

Mankato 88.5 99.8 71.9 94.7 102.0 111.5 104.6

St. Cloud 97.4 114.6 75.3 95.2 95.2 125.1 106.2

Siox Falls 101.2 98.8 115.9 90.6 90.2 101.0 96.1

For more information on using the quarterly Cost of Living Index, please contact the Chamber.

Cost-of-Living Index Update

Five Plus YearsIowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (7)North Iowa Bulls Hockey (7)Cornish Family Chiropractic (6)Vein Care Center - North Iowa (5)

One Plus YearsMason City Sunrise Rotary (4)Midwest AcuTech LLC (4)Mercy Healthworks (4)Libby Lembke (3)NMC Material Handling (2)Dale Carnegie Training (1)REM Iowa Community Services (1)Highland Park Golf Course (1)North Iowa Children's Discovery Center (1)Fieldhouse (1)Tried & True (1)

New Member Luncheonew Chamber members or new employees at a Chamber member businesses are invited to attend the upcoming New Member Luncheon at noon on Tuesday, July 24 at the Commerce Center!

This event will cover the benefits of chamber membership and connect members to representatives from the Chamber Board of Directors, staff, and fellow new members. Lunch is provided courtesy of the New Member Luncheon sponsor, First Citizens Bank.

Please contact Program Director Kativa Weitzel at kweitzel@masoncityia.com or call the Chamber to register for this free event.

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Video ServicesThe Chamber offers video production services! Whether a business is looking for a short clip to promote an upcoming event, or a longer video to showcase their services, the Chamber can help with video marketing needs.

Promotional Video (Long) - $1,000• 3:00-8:00 minute video• Majority video content (shot by

contractor)• Script/outline developed by

contractor in collaboration with purchaser

• Featured in weekly Chamber News for one month

• Post to Chamber social media sites• Digital copy provided to purchaser

with rights to own/use video

Promotional Video (Short) - $500• 1:30-3:00 minute video• Majority video content (shot by

contractor)• Script/outline developed by

contractor in collaboration with purchaser

• Featured in weekly Chamber News for one month

• Post to Chamber social media sites• Digital copy provided to purchaser

with rights to own/use video

Social Media Video (Long) - $250• 1:00-1:30 minute video• Majority video content (shot by

contractor)• Script/outline developed by

contractor in collaboration with purchaser

• Post to Chamber social media sites

Social Media Video (Short) - $100• :30-1:00 minute video• Photo/video content (video shot

by contractor)• Script/outline developed by

purchaser (may collaborate with contractor)

• Post to Chamber social media sites

Contact Allyson at the Chamber akrull@masoncityia.com or 641.423.5724 for more information.

he 2018 Lunch & Learn “Management Series” is geared to professionals in a management position and employees looking to advance their careers. Each one-hour educational session is held at noon

at the Commerce Center is $10 and includes a light lunch.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 7“Asking the Right Questions to Get the Right Employee” | Dan McGuire, First Citizens Bank It can be a grueling task to find an employee that fits your company values, commitments and standards. Set your company up for success from the very beginning – during the interview process.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 21 "Giving Performance Feedback" | Andy O’Brien, ActionCOACHUsing a variety of resources to assess your business needs, Andy can match to them to a customized strategy to bring success to your business and help it grow.

Register for a Lunch & Learn through the Chamber’s online event calendar or by contacting the Chamber at 641.423.5724. For the complete menu, visit masoncityia.com or contact Kativa Weitzel at kweitzel@masoncityia.com.

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

August Lunch & Learns

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Krull Receives IOM Graduate RecognitionMarketing & Leadership Development Director Allyson Krull has graduated from the Institute for Organization Management program and has received the recognition of IOM. Awarded to all graduates of the Institute program, the IOM Graduate Recognition signifies the individual’s completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management.

The Institute program began in 1921 and has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, participants are able to enhance their management skills and improve their organizations.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

Membership Director & Community Concierge Colleen Frein and Program Director Kativa Weitzel are also actively participating in the Institute program.

Krull pictured with Midwest Institute Chair and President of the Board of Regents.

641.422-1663 / 800.423.5724 www.VisitMasonCityIowa.com

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

PGI Public Display Preview Are your pyro sense tingling? Visit Mason City and the North

Iowa Events Center are anxiously awaiting the return of the Pyrotechnics Guild International (PGI) to Mason City this August! As part of the convention, the PGI will present THUNDER & FIRE—three nights of spectacular fireworks displays, open to the public. The following is a “sneak peak” of each night’s line-up:

Sunday, August 5: Shows by the Iowa Pyrotechnic Association, Ray Garris, Rozzi Fireworks, & Flashing Thunder Fireworks Tuesday, August 7: Shows by PGI membership, Iowa Pyrotechnic Association, & AM Pyrotechnics. Friday, August 10: Shows by Heartland Pyrotechnics, PGI membership, PGI All Stars, Spirit of 76 Fireworks, Fireball Dudes, & Cassabella Pyrotechnics

Early bird tickets are available now and can be purchased at the Mason City Visitors Center (located at 2021 4th Street SW) or online at www.northiowaeventscenter.org. Bring the whole crew! This unique event provides a great opportunity for employee and/or customer appreciation. Contact Lindsey James (641.422.1663) for bulk ticket orders.

Ticket Prices: Sunday (8/5) & Tuesday (8/7): General admission—$18 adults ($20 after July 22); children 5 and under free Friday (8/10): General admission—$18 adults ($20 after July 22) / Reserve

RECAP: 30 Days of Fun Visit Mason City’s 30 Days of Fun Trivia Challenge was held during the month of May. This year’s contest tested social followers’ knowledge of Mason City attractions, restaurants, events, history and more! Each day during the contest, a trivia question was posted on VMC’s Facebook & Instagram pages. Users were invited to participate by answering the daily question with a comment on the post. Each person who answered correctly during the promotional timeframe was entered into the daily drawing.

Winners were announced the following day. Daily winners received prizes courtesy of the Northwestern Steakhouse, Las Palmas, Visit Mason City, Beanzys, Birdsall’s, State Street Deli, Pro’s Sandwich Shop, Suzie Q Café and many more!

All users who correctly answered the daily trivia question earned one entry into the grand prize drawing. Participants who participated daily could accumulate up to 30 entries. Grand prize winners were announced on May 31. Each received an Amazon Echo.

Congratulations to our daily winners:

Judy Nessett, Casey Macey Mingo, Bonnie Hruska Burnett, Rachel Herman, Abigail Zavala, Vicky Bell, Lisa Canedo,

Christian Charboneaux, Milleen Paulson, Amy Prentice Newton, Jane Balkenend,

Kim Kleveland, Lorena Bergan, Jim Burnett, Cindy Mostrom, Sara Hutchison,

Cheryl Wedmore, Lora L. Holding, Claudia Blakley Bolles, Tamara Richardson,

Sandra Rabourn, Michael McCutcheon, Tammy Buttjer Soresen, Carol Meinecke,

Jan Pedeltey, Tim Platz, Sue Simmons, Jill Scharper, Amanda Grover Reinhart,

and Susan Rebedeau and our Grand Prize winners: Paula Holtz Humberg, LeAnn Ginther,

and Ann Bishop FACEBOOK: @MasonCityIowa

INSTAGRAM: @VisitMasonCity

CONTEST INSIGHTS: 110 Daily Entries

3, 3302 Grand Prize Entries + 291 Facebook Followers 157,802 Facebook Reach

15,124 Facebook Interactions +71 Instagram Followers

Connect with us!

FRIDAYNIGHT

LIVE!FREE CONCERT - BEER GARDEN - LOCAL FOOD TRUCKS & VENDORS - FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE

M A I N S T R E E T M A S O N C I T Y P R E S E N T S :

CENTRAL PARK - MASON CITY

JULY 13TH6:00 - 10:00 PM

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:

FEATURING:

SCHUPICK & ASSOCIATESNORTH IOWA ORAL SURGERY & DENTAL IMPLANT CENTER

ADVERTISING SPONSORS

KWIK TRIPCLEAR LAKE BANK & TRUSTHENKEL CONSTRUCTION

BEER TENT SPONSORS FRIENDS OF FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE SPONSORSGENE & ERNIE’S AUTO REPAIRBUCKLETRUE TRAVELS LLCBUTCHER’S STEAKHOUSE

FAREWAY MEAT & GROCERYKABRICK DISTRIBUTINGDIANNE & ARLO STOLTENBERGBYRON & ANN BEASLEY

AMADITA SHAFFERJEFF & JESSICA TIERNEYKAREN DOLE

CHAD SCHRECKPRESIDENT & CEO

cschreck@northiowacorridor.com

SHAUN ARNESONVP, EXISTING BUSINESS & PROJECT

MANAGEMENTsarneson@northiowacorridor.com

KEN BALESDEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

kbales@northiowacorridor.com

HUNTER CALLANANCOMMUNICATIONS & WORKFORCE

SPECIALISThcallanan@northiowacorridor.com

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

CORRIDOR LOAN FUNDS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

T HE NORTH IOWA CORRIDOR has two revolving loan funds available to businesses in Cerro

Gordo County.

The Small Business Revolving Loan Fund (RFL) is available to new and existing businesses to provide gap financing to small and emerging businesses in the area with an eye toward job creation and the leveraging of capital investment. This loan is available to all business sectors, including those in the retail, entertainment, and hospitality industries.

To qualify for loan funding, applicant businesses must have a presence in Cerro Gordo County, employ fewer than 50 employees, produce less than $1 million in gross annual sales and meet additional established criteria. The loan fund will not compete with traditional business financing sources and loans are limited to $10,000 per applicant business.

Chad Schreck, President & CEO of the North Iowa Corridor, said, “The Corridor hopes that these funds will spur growth in small business start-ups, as well as provide existing small businesses with the assistance they may need to grow.”

The second funding resource is the Corridor Revolving Loan Fund. The loan fund is administered by an independent board of trustees and serves as a gap financing resource for growing primary sector businesses. It is not intended to

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compete with other available sources of funding, but rather to provide money necessary to leverage those resources.

Schreck said the fund has been used to leverage existing industry growth as well as to assist in the attraction of new business to North Iowa, including Sunny Fresh Foods, Inc., now Cargill Kitchen Solutions, which today employs close to 300 people in Mason City.

He added that without the generous contributions of the original seeders of the fund and sound management, this resource would not be possible.

“The contributors to this fund made an investment in the betterment of North Iowa and the excellent management of a series of highly capable trustee boards have positioned the Corridor RLF to be one of the strongest in the state,” Schreck said.

For more information on either loan fund, please contact Schreck at cschreck@northiowacorridor.com or 641-423-0315.

IN THE

JULY 2018

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Paul Stevenson, Chairman of the Board Clear Lake Bank and Trust

Nate Carney, Vice Chair Dean Snyder Construction

Bob Klocke, Treasurer First Citizens Bank

Scott Smed, Secretary Bergland + Cram Architects

Deb Blaser Gretillat, Past Chairwoman NutriQuest

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

Jacquelyn K. Arthur Heiny, McManigal, Duffy, Stambaugh & Anderson, PLC

Mark Ebeling City of Clear Lake

Diane Fischels Mercy Medical Center - North Iowa

Arthur Jones International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 238

Brian Perkins MetalCraft

Jeff Nichols One Vision

Officers:

Ex-Officios:

Directors:

SAVE THE DATE! Join the North Iowa Corridor, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the

NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center at TechBrew North Iowa on Tuesday, July 24 at Lake Time Brewery.

For more information or to RSVP, join the TechBrew North Iowa Facebook group.

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

The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center will host the inaugural Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala on September 26, 2018. The Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala celebrates the entrepreneurs and partners who make our communities a great place to work and live. The Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala will share our story, recognize the region’s entrepreneurs, and honor John and Mary Pappajohn’s vital contributions and support to North Iowa with the Legacy Award.

Four additional recognitions will be awarded at the gala: Entrepreneur of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Business of the Year, and the Innovation Award. Nominations can be made by contacting the Pappajohn Center directly for an application, or on the Pappajohn Center website

(www.niacc.edu/pappajohn/gala).

We are pleased to announce John Pappajohn as the keynote speaker, and invited guests Governor Kim Reynolds and Director Debi Durham of the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Sponsorship opportunities to underwrite the gala and support the NIACC Pappajohn Center and North Iowa Area SBDC are available. In order to take full benefit of sponsorship, please express level of com-mitment by July 30, 2018 to Tim Putnam at 641.422.4192 or Tim.Putnam@niacc.edu.

PAPPAJOHN CENTER STAFF

Tim Putnam, Director Brook Boehmler, SBDC Director Daniel Pitts Winegarden, Acceleration Services Director Kelley O’Rourke, School Partnership Entrepreneurial Coordinator Joyce Martin, Communications and Program Coordinator Mary Spitz, Administrative Assistant-Pappajohn & SBDC

NIACC Pappajohn Center Announces Entrepreneur Gala

500 College Drive, Ste 120 · Mason City, IA 50401 Visit us online @ www.niacc.edu/pappajohn 1-888-GO-NIACC or 641-422-4111

Upcoming Events Start Smart Workshop July 11—6:00 to 8:00pm; NIACC (PC 117) 500 College Drive, Mason City North Iowa Tech Brew July 24—5:00 to 7:00pm; Lake Time Brewery, 801 Main Ave., Clear Lake

Call 641-422-4111 or email mary.spitz@niacc.edu for these free sessions

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

Thank you to this year’s Premier members who have gone above and beyond in their support of the Chamber programs, events, and the North Iowa Band Festival.

GOLD ($6,000 & UP):Cargill ProteinFirst Citizens BankHoliday Inn Express & Suites – Mason CityMercy Medical Center – North IowaPOET Biorefining- Hanlontown

SILVER ($3,000 - $5,999):98.7 KISS Country / 103.7 The Fox / KIOW 107.3 / KCHA 95.9Clear Lake Bank & Trust, Co.Diamond Jo CasinoMason City Motor CompanyPrincipal Financial GroupREG Mason City, LLC

BRONZE ($1,000 - $2,999):Ag Ventures AllianceAtlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company Casey’s General StoreCENT Credit UnionCorporate Farmer, IncCountry Meadow PlaceCurries – Assa AbloyExpress Employment ProfessionalsFarmers State BankJane Fischer and Associates LLCHenkel Construction Co.ITC MidwestKwik TripNorth Iowa Area Community CollegeNorth Iowa Community Credit UnionNSB BankRieman MusicSmithfieldWal-Mart Super CenterWells Fargo Bank of Iowa

Premier Members

Save the date for the Chamber’s 102nd Annual Meeting, Thursday, October 4 at The Music Man Square. The program will take a look back on the year’s events and successes and while members enjoy the popular “Taste of North Iowa” luncheon!

Save the Date: Annual Meeting 2018

102ND ANNUAL MEETING11:30AM-1PM | October 4The Music Man Square308 S Pennsylvania Ave

Agriculture and rail are two major components of the North Iowa economy. On September 13, Chamber members will have the opportunity to get an inside look to see how agricultural resources have been transported through Mason City for the past 100 years. The Ag Tour is scheduled for September 13 at Progressive Rail’s Iowa Traction Railway in Mason City, the only functioning commercial electric rail in North America! Guests will experience a 3.5-mile tour on Iowa Traction Railway’s antique electric railway passenger car and enjoy lunch provided by Ag Tour sponsors. Two 1-hour tours will be offered; one at 10AM and the second at 1PM.

This free tour is presented by the Agribusiness Committee and business sponsors. Please register by contacting Kativa via email kweitzel@maosncityia.com or call 641.423.5724.

Thank you to the 2018 Ag Tour Sponsors!

Workplace Emergency SeminarOn June 20, the Chamber hosted Philip Pitzen, Ed.D., from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to speak about emergencies in the workplace. Pitzen covered what to do in situations such as suspicious packages, bomb threats, white powder incidents, and active shooters. Attendees gained valuable insight to assit in establishing workplace emergency procedures, security plans, and threat analysis.

Ag Tour - September 13

Wellness

3RD ANNUAL WORKPLACE WELLNESS AWARD AND RECOGNITION PROGRAM

The Workplace Wellness Award is an opportunity to recognize local employers for engaging in workplace wellness initiatives.

These employers excel in providing employees with a positive work environment while also supporting good health and well-being practices. The winner of the annual award will receive recognition at the Mason City Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on October 4.

To complete an award application please visit the Cerro Gordo County Public Health’s website at www.cghealth.com.

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

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

Ribbon Cuttings

NEW RENOVATIONCountry Inn & Suites by Radisson, Mason City4082 4th St SW

Chamber members interested in joining the Ambassadors Committee may contact Colleen Frein at cfrein@masoncityia.com or by calling the Chamber!

NEW RENOVATIONMcDonald's Restaurant1654 4th St SW

NEW MEMBERA Helping Hand - Home Care

College ConnectionsLeft: After exploring the history of Mason City on a community scavenger hunt, the interns ended with a sweet treat at Birdsall’s Ice Cream.

Right: Participants learned new networking tips to use at business and social events.

Chamber Leadership

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

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

Executive CommitteeKelly Hansen, Chairman of the Board POET Biorefining - Hanlontown Steve Noto, Past Chairman Stoney Creek Hospitality CorporationCraig Miller, Treasurer First Citizens BankTyler Kerr, Government Affairs Division Vice President REG Mason City, LLCRodney Huber, Business Division Vice President & Chair Elect Huber Supply Co.Dr. Steve Schulz, Workforce & Leadership Division Vice President North Iowa Area Community College Jeff Nichols, Community & Membership Division Vice President One Vision FKA Opportunity Village

Board of DirectorsDiane Arndt, Reflections SalonDr. Kyle Burgmeier, Burgmeier DentistryJane Fischer, Jane Fischer & Associates LLCHusna Khan, Quick Care Urgent Care ClinicTraci Koehn, CENT Credit UnionDr. Paul Manternach, Mercy Medical Center -North IowaDavid Mayberry, Globe GazetteAndy Meyer, Bergland+Cram ArchitectsDanielle Pace, Clear Lake Bank & Trust Co.Bill Phillips, Henkel Construction CompanyJessica Reith, Cargill ProteinCrystal Shellhart, Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Mason CityScott Smith, Diamond Jo Casino - Worth Co.

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

TuesdayJuly 17WednesdayJuly 18

Networking Events

TuesdayJuly 10

SaturdayJuly 28

Get Involved/Committee Meetings

WednesdayJuly 25

Wellness Committee | 3-4PMFarrer Room | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

Events Committee | Noon-1PMFarrer Room | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

Ambassador Meeting | Noon-1PMBoulder Tap House | 2700 4th St SW

Moonlight Bike Ride 8:30PM-MidnightSouthbridge Parking Lot

Chamber Board Meeting | 7-8AMBoard Room | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

August 7 | Lunch & Learn sponsored by First Citizens BankAugust 12 | Lunch & Learn sponsored by Andy O'Brien - ActionCOACH

FridayJuly 6

Ribbon Cutting - Patriot Wings Bar & Grill | 11:30AM Patriot Wings Bar & Grill | 9184 265th St, Clear Lake

ThursdayJuly 12

Ribbon Cutting - BE WELLness | 4PM BE WELLness | 419 Main Ave, Clear Lake

Educational OpportunitiesTuesdayJuly 24

New Member Luncheon Sponsored by First Citzens Bank | Noon-1PM3rd Floor Event Room | Commerce Center | 9 N Federal Ave

Ribbon Cutting - North Iowa Youth Center | 4:30PM North Iowa Youth Center | 138 5th St SW

Business After Hours Sponsored by Mason City Powersports | 4:30-6:30PMMason City Powersports | 12499 265th St

FridayJuly 27

Ribbon Cutting - Chad Harrison, CPA PC 4PMChad Harrison, CPA PC | 4700 4th St SW, Ste F