mason city ia community profile
DESCRIPTION
Welcome to Mason City! With our beautiful surroundings, sprawling farmland and bustling trade, we have a lot to offer.TRANSCRIPT
3www.masoncityia.com
www.fsbbanks.com
641-424-1949517 S Federal Avenue
Mason City, IA
641-424-30532501 4th Street SW
Mason City, IA
“A Timeless Tradition in North Iowa”
www.1stinsurance.com
Business Insurance and Employee Benefits
Protection & Security Since 1921
641.421.8000 or 800.247.071325 West State Street
Upper LevelMason City, IA 50401
Travis Cox
Casey Callanan
Kelly Draheim
Kendall Lundberg
John Moran
Tel Pappajohn
Dick Price, C.P.C.U.
Talk it up!
608 South Delaware • Mason City, IA 50401(641) 423-6818 • (800) 343-2688 • Fax (641) 424-8424
www.connectingyou.com
Connections you can count on.Electronic Engineering
Improve your event or project with daily, weekly or monthly two-way radio rentals.
You’ll have your own private channel, unlimited talk time and free group calls. Andyou’ll never drop a call. Ask about rental packages and the “hot accessory” templetransducers, the next generation of headsets.
MotorolaTwo-Way
Radiosfrom ElectronicEngineering.
www.masoncityia.com4
W elcome to a Blue Zones ProjectCommunity! Mason City was nameda Blue Zones Demonstration Site in2012 as part of Iowa’s quest to
become the Healthiest State. “Blue Zones” is a termthat describes a community where people live longer,happier and healthier lives.
The citizens and businesses of Mason City have madea commitment to transform the physical, social, andcivic environment to improve the emotional andphysical health of residents and workers. This processresults in lower healthcare costs, higher productivity,and increased economic vitality.
Our region benefits from a strong economy, built on afoundation of homegrown businesses and largeinternational firms. A progressive educational systemand top-tier health care are just a few of the perksyou will find here. We invite you to experienceNorth Iowa’s friendly neighborhoods, vibranteconomy and fun things to do!
Chamber of CommerceThe Mason City Area Chamber of Commerce is thevoice of business in Cerro Gordo County. With morethan 650 members, the Chamber promotes a healthyeconomic environment for both existing and newbusinesses.
The mission of the Mason City Chamber ofCommerce is to promote progressive economic and community development to benefit the North Iowa region.
5www.masoncityia.com
Stephanie RichardsSales Assistant
Rita EisentragerSales Assistant
Robin EdgarInvestment Professional
Registered Rrepresentative offering general securities through Eagle One Investments, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC. Not FDIC/NCUA InsuredMay Lose Value - No Bank Guarantee - Not A Deposit - Not INsured by any Federal Government Agency.
Edgar Financial Group and Eagle One Investments, LLC, are not affiliated.
(641) 424-9899www.EdgarFinancialGroup.com
[email protected] Tiffany Drive • Mason City
One Team for All Your Financial NeedsOne Team for All Your Financial Needs
www.masoncityia.com6
Welcome
Fast Facts
Blue Zones Project
Industry & Commerce
Location
Cost of Living
Homes & Neighborhoods
Main Street
Education
Higher Education & Workforce Training
Healthcare
Arts & Culture
Recreation
Blue Zones Power 9 Principles
Worship
History
Fun Things to See & Do
Mason City Chamber of Commerce
Index of Advertisers
This is a Village Profile® Publicationcreated and produced for the
Mason City Area Chamber of Commerce9 N. Federal Avenue • Mason City, IA 50401Phone: 641-423-5724 • Fax: 641-423-5725
Website: www.masoncityia.comEmail: [email protected]
Copyright© 2012 VillageProfile.com, inc.®
33 N. Geneva St., Elgin, IL 60120 • 800-600-0134www.villageprofile.com®
Every effort has been made to assure the accuracyof the information in this publication. The Chamber
and VillageProfile.com® assume no responsibility formisinformation. Please contact the Chamber with
any additions or corrections. Reproduction in wholeor in part without permission of the Chamber and
VillageProfile.com® is prohibited.
CEO/President Daniel M. NugaraExecutive Vice President Joseph C. Nugara, Sr.
Director of Business Operations Michael D. NugaraVice President Gordy Swinehart
Acquisition Manager Jacklyn EwerdtProject Sales Manager Michael Holmes
Project Coordinator Stefanie MikutisDirector of Production Joseph C. Nugara, Jr.
Production Manager Nick OlahGraphic Designer Kirsten Riedl
Graphic Production Stacey R. CorderoAd Production Coordinator Anna Burkart
Ad Design Manager Kerri Reaves
Follow us on
48911212425313538414652556062667376
This publication is produced on paper that contains recycledcontent and is printed with 100% green inks that do not contain
solvents and are free of volatile organic compounds (VOC). Ourprinter, Sutherland Companies of Montezuma, IA has eliminated the use of
film and film processing and utilizes aqueous plates, alcohol substitutes andwaste recovery programs. Sutherland Companies also holds environmentalpermits issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and works
with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) licensed handlers.
7www.masoncityia.com
Fly First From MCWFly First From MCWFly First From MCW
• Competitive Airfares
• Daily Twin Cities Departures with
World-Wide Connections
• Fly Close to Home & Park FREE
• Streamlined Security Check-In
• Free Wi-Fi Service in Airport Terminal
(641) 421-3680Located on Hwy. 122 West
(One mile east of I-35)
www.flymcw.com
www.masoncityia.com8
MASON CITY Land Area: 25.8 square miles Population: 28,079Labor Market Population: 15, 210Radius-20 Minutes: 41,546Population Density: 1,089 per square mile (low)Population Change Due
to Commuting: +5,499 (+18.9%)Households: 13,352Average Household Size: 2.14Median Household Income: $40,706Per Capita Income: $26,279Median Age: 39.5
Educational Attainment (Population Age 25+)Associate Degree ......................................................14%Bachelor’s Degree.....................................................18%Graduate or Professional Degree ................................6%
Race and Ethnicity:White..........................................................................93%Black.........................................................................1.6%American Indian.......................................................0.2%Asian.........................................................................1.4%
Pacific Islander .........................................................0.0%Other ........................................................................1.9%Two or More ..............................................................1.8%Hispanic....................................................................6.4%
Ancestries:German..................................................................40.2%Norwegian..............................................................16.3%Irish..........................................................................13.3%English.......................................................................9.6%Greek........................................................................5.1%Swedish.....................................................................3.1%
Weather:Mason City has a moderate climate and four distinctseasons. Average winter temperatures are 18.2 degreesFahrenheit and average summer temperatures are 70.7degrees Fahrenheit. Annual rainfall averages 31.4inches and annual snowfall averages 37.8 inches.
Air Quality Index (AQI) Level: 21.6 (Significantly betterthan U.S. Average 32.0)
Water Quality: Very high quality; Electrodialysis Reversal(EDR) treatment process—new in 2004.
9www.masoncityia.com
What is a “Blue Zone?”Blue Zones are geographically defined areas wherepeople live measurably longer. Dan Buettner, aNational Geographic explorer and world-renownedauthor of The New York Times bestselling book titled“The Blue Zones—Lessons For Living Longer, fromthe People Who’ve Lived the Longest,” identifiedcommon elements of cultures and healthy livingwhich produced longer life expectancy. This researchhas been used to develop tools and programs thathelp people live longer, happier lives with lower ratesof chronic disease and higher quality life.
In North Iowa, we are working to optimize ourcommunities by looking at laws, regulations and thephysical environment for ways to encourage naturalmovement and social interaction.
A Place with Healthier, Happier, and More Productive Citizens
www.masoncityia.com10
Anyone who has ever made a healthy New Year’sresolution knows the challenges of maintaining itover time. Your circumstances and environmentconspire against you, making the goal difficult toachieve. It’s the same challenge faced by traditionalhealth improvement programs that rely on behaviorchanges alone.
The Blue Zones Project is different because it takesan environmental approach to improve well-being.By optimizing our environments—those settingswhere we spend our time and which influence ourbehavior—we can make the healthy choice the easychoice so that we naturally adopt healthy behaviors.
The Blue Zones Projectoptimizes four keyenvironments:COMMUNITY
SOCIAL NETWORK
HABITAT
INNER SELF
Our citizens are hard atwork adopting theproven strategies toimprove the region'sshowing in the Gallup-
Healthways Well-Being Index (WBI). This measureis the preeminent source for health and well-beingdata in the United States.
Local leaders use theWBI findings toquantify and benchmarkthe well-being ofemployees and citizensto make informeddecisions regardinghealth benefits, workenvironments,corporate culture andcommunity investment.
11www.masoncityia.com
I ndustry and commerce have thrived in NorthIowa since the days of the first settlers. Thelocal cement industry began in the early 1900sand that aspect of the regional economy
continues to play an important role. Other foundingindustries such as brick and tile have come and gone,but each left a mark. Today, Fortune 500 companieswork hand-in-hand with local, family-ownedbusinesses to provide a wealth of services and diverseemployment opportunities.
The area’s largest employer is Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa. The medical center and its industrypartners provide jobs that add $220 million to thelocal economy. Hospital employees alone spend $96million on retail sales and contribute $6.1 million instate sales tax revenue.
Other leading employers include the public schools,Armour Eckrich Foods, Cargill, Curries Company,Mason City Clinic, The Principal Financial GroupPension Center, Woodharbor Cabinetry and KraftFoods. Existing companies continue to expand, andmany new companies have been attracted to the area
through development efforts. Continuous expansionand investment by several of the region’s mostinfluential employers help the region to thrive andare a tribute to its quality workforce. North Iowa ison the leading edge of renewable fuel creation,hosting ethanol plants, a bio-diesel plant and severalwind farms.
Through the development and planning stages,businesses can count on the Chamber and its partners
www.masoncityia.com12
to assist with site location, job training assistance,access to capital, incentivepackages and assistance withregulatory requirements.
The region boasts severalindustrial parks, spec buildings,and a varied inventory ofcommercial real estate includingsites ranging from five to 300
acres. A well-educated and highly skilled workforcecombines with a low cost of doing business to placethis area at the top of any site selector’s list.
WorkforceIt’s All About the People
According to Blue Zones research, people who knowtheir purpose live up to seven years longer than thosewho don’t. North Iowa employers providechallenging, fulfilling work.
Together, Mason City and Clear Lake draw a laborpool from 15 plus counties surrounding us,
13www.masoncityia.com
• FREE Checking• FREE Debit/Check Card• FREE Online Services• Credit Card• First Mortgages
• Savings• IRAs• Consumer Loans• Home Equity Loans• Kid’s Club
FServing North Iowa Since 1932!
www.iowaheartland.org1602 South Monroe Ave.
Mason City, IA 50401Ph: 641-424-5391 • Fax: 641-423-3361
Toll Free: 866-571-5066
Federally Insured byNational Credit Union Administration
MASON CITY, CEDAR RAPIDS, DES MOINES, FT. DODGE, QUAD CITIES, WATERLOO
“Leading the Way”123 1st Street SE • Mason City, IA 50401
1-800-798-8836www.mcbsinc.com
• Direct Hire • Executive/Professional• Temp to Perm • Accounting• Temporary • Manufacturing/Labor
• Office/Administrative
Respecting People-Impacting Business
1411 4th Street SW Mason City, IA 641-423-5613 / 888-400-7726www.expresspros.com
www.masoncityia.com14
encompassing a population ofapproximately 195,000. Our region has astrong heritage of extremely hard workingmanufacturing and agricultural workersthat are heralded for their productivity incomparison to counterparts across thecountry.
Our largest employer is Mercy MedicalCenter-North Iowa with over 2,600employees in the region.
In addition, we are growing in thetechnology and professional servicesfields, all resulting in a dedicated anddiverse workforce.
15www.masoncityia.com
General Contractors / Design-BuildConstruction Management
913 N. 14th Street 5151 SE Rio CourtClear Lake, IA 50428 Ankeny, IA 50021
641-357-2283 www.deansnyderconst.com 515-289-0720
SOYBEAN PROCESSING
Bus: 641-423-4733 • Fax: 641-424-9167
Wats: 800-397-2186
1605 19th Street S.W.
Mason City, IA 50401
Accounting • Auditing • PayrollQuickBook Services • Management Advisory Services
Small Business Services • Tax Services • Wealth Management
Hogan � Hansen, PC • 200 N. Adams Ave. Mason City, IA 50401
Phone: (641) 423-0574 Fax: (641) 423-4163
Dennis Muyskens, CPA – [email protected] McCoy, CPA – [email protected]
www.masoncityia.com16
Mason City, Iowa
Armour-Eckrich Meats, LLC1401 S. Eisenhower Avenue
Mason City, IA 50401641-421-5189
Iowa’s workforce is educated and productive. Thestate has taken a proactive approach to transform itspublic education system to focus on student
achievement and meeting the skills gap. Qualityeducation to ensure a quality workforce is a sharedcommunity value.
17www.masoncityia.com
www.masoncityia.com18
1-800-472-6931 www.CorporateFarmer.com
The crops are looking good.And there’s a newtractor in the yard.
Our proven record keepingsystem, expert income tax
consultation and decades ofdesigning family farm
corporations may helpyour farm prosper
too-so it staysprofitable for
years to come.
115 8th Street SE • Mason City, IA(641) 423-6686 • Fax (641) 424-8423
www.blazekelectric.com
19www.masoncityia.com
DAN LAWRENCEPlant Supervisor
1060 Stoughton Avenue • Chaska, MN 55318-2174
O 952-448-2811 ext 223C 952-843-3963
Sales • Printing • SignsPromoting Your Business Is Our Business!
1-800-325-5308 • (641) 423-9487Fax (641) [email protected] • www.ddsalesonline.com
DAVID LANE President840 12th Street NW
Mason City, IA 50401
Improve Traffic at Trade Shows • Motivate StaffThank a Customer • Increase Safety Awareness
www.masoncityia.com20
ON-SITE INSPECTION SERVICE
Selling Fire Protection for Over 50 Years!
902 N. FederalMason City
641-423-4200800-286-4202
MEMBER
EDERALIREQUIP. CO.
Commercial - Industrial - AG - ResidentialPremier Sq D Distributor
Since 1948
NEW LOCATION2001 15th St. SW • Mason City, IA
800-392-2320 • www.culverhahn.com
21www.masoncityia.com
North Iowa Bus Company, Inc.Cavalier Coaches, Inc.
(641) 424-2600P.O. Box 1561 • 2101 15th Street SW
Mason City, Iowa 50401
For All Your Group Travel Needs
I deally located on Interstate 35, MasonCity and Clear Lake are midwaybetween Des Moines and Minneapolis.Mason City is bordered to the south by
the Avenue of the Saints (US 18/IA 27),which links St. Paul to St. Louis.
In addition, Mason City is centrally-located inthe Midwest, within easy driving distance tomajor markets such as Chicago, St. Louis,Kansas City and Minneapolis. The “NorthIowa Corridor” is the hub of our centrallylocated transportation network. Interstate 35splits the region, the four-lane divided Avenue
www.masoncityia.com22
of the Saints (US 18/IA27) borders Mason City tothe south and Interstates 80and 90 are both close by.
We are served by two ClassI railroads, Union Pacificand Canadian Pacific(DM&E), one short-linerailroad (Iowa Traction)and the Manly Terminalrail intermodal.
The Mason Citycommercial airport offersfour roundtrip flights dailyto Minneapolis-St. PaulInternational Airport(MSP) and three roundtripflights on the weekend.
23www.masoncityia.com
2601 S. Federal Avenue • Mason City, IA 50401
FREE ESTIMATES!For All Your Asphalt NeedsCall (641) 424-1733
www.heartlandasphalt.com
Travel with Someone You Trust
497 Indianhead Drive, #109 • Mason City, IA 50401(641) 423-4315
Toll Free (800) 222-1333 • www.aaa.comMembers and Non Members Welcome
515 S. Delaware AvenueMason City, IA 50401
(641) 424-5395
Schukei Chevrolet721 S. Monroe • Mason City, IA
www.schukei.com
(641)423-5402
“Our strength is in our people and the customers we serve”
11228 265th Street • Mason City, Iowa 50401
641-423-5164www.bauerbuilt.com
Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:30pm • Saturday 7:30am-12:00pm
Auto, Truck & Trailer AlignmentsAutomotive Repairs and Truck Front End Repairs
We carry Michelin, Bridgestone, BF Goodrich, Firestone, Hercules and Kumho Brands.
GRAHAMYOUR TIRE STORE NEXT DOOR
Web: www.grahamtire.net • Email: [email protected] 1st St. NW • Mason City, IA 50401
641-423-1933 • 866-545-1933
ON THE WINGS OF
2111 S. Federal Ave. • Mason City
641-424-4973Your collision repair specialists since 1976
• Complete collision repair for all makes & models• Auto detailing • Lifetime warranty on paint & body
• Total unibody & wheel alignment• We handle all insurance needs
www.hawkeyeautobody.com
www.masoncityia.com24
H ow does Mason City stack up when itcomes to cost of living? The Chamberparticipates in research to assist theCouncil for Community and Economic
Research (C2ER) in producing the quarterlyACCRA Cost of Living Index. Raw data from urbanareas across the United States is analyzed to comparethe cost of living in various geographic locations.
According to 2012 data, Mason City has an index of94.9. By comparison, New York City—the mostexpensive place to live—has an index of 228.3. Theleast expensive locale in the study is Harlingen, TXwith an index of 82.8.
Here’s an example of how to use this information.Assume that City A has a composite index of 98.3and City B has a composite index of 128.5. If youlive in City A and are contemplating a job offer inCity B, you can calculate how much of an increase inyour after-tax income is needed to maintain yourpresent lifestyle. In this case, 30.72 percent, or abouta 31 percent increase in after-tax salary to maintainthe same living standard.
The table below illustrates the most recent data forarea Micro-Urban communities. (100.0 represent themean; the lower the percentage, the lower the cost-of-living.) Mason City compares very favorably toour peer Midwest communities.
City & Composite Groceries Housing Utilities Trans-porta-tion Health Care Misc. Goods & SvcsScore
Mason City 94.9 94.3 96.4 101.5 91.4 95.1 92.8
Peoria IL 101.6 98.2 95.9 97.8 111.9 99.9 106.2
St Cloud MN 94.7 106.2 76.8 95.5 97.1 110.6 102.5
Dubuque 95.7 93.6 89.6 85.9 104.1 106.8 100.9
25www.masoncityia.com
A ccording to the Blue Zones Project, ahealthy “habitat” is necessary for well-being. Habitat comprises the placeswhere we spend most of our waking
hours—workplaces, homes, grocery stores, schoolsand restaurants. Whichever way you turn, NorthIowa provides a great environment to live, learnand do business.
www.masoncityia.com26
A micropolitan region, Mason City and Clear Lakeoffer the small town atmosphere—low crime rate,excellent schools, affordable housing and amenities—without sacrificing important assets. Just one lookaround shows how much people care about theirhomes and neighborhoods. Yards are well-maintainedand most housing is owner-occupied.
The area boasts several exquisite residentialdevelopments for discerning buyers. The average saleprice for a home is $114,441 with the median salesprice at $86,000. A nice inventory of properties isavailable in all price ranges. In the past year, theaverage days on market (DOM) was 171 days.
Housing is affordable and plentiful. Home stylesembrace the region’s heritage while incorporatingmodern convenience. A wide range of styles, from
27www.masoncityia.com
HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING • VENTILATION
Comfort, Inc.A Division of Carrier Corporation
20 North KentuckyMason City, IA 50401
SCOT A. WRIGHT (641) 423-2133
We’re More Than Just a Place to Take Your Trash.
• FREE COMPOST available to residents.• FREE clean corrugated cardboard drop off.• FREE residential hazardous waste drop off by appointment.• ECONOMICAL electronics and computer recycling available.
15942 Killdeer Ave. • Clear Lake, Iowa641-357-5452 • Toll Free 1-877-LANDFILHours: M-F 8am-4:30pm • Sat 8am-Noon
Thank You for Reusing and Recyclingwww.landfillnorthiowa.org
Serving 70,000 residents and businesses inCerro Gordo, Franklin & portions of Floyd, Hancock, Winnebago & Worth Counties.
T & R Custom TopsLaminate & Solid-Surface Countertops
Undermount Karran Sinks
1075 15th St. S.W.Mason City, IA 50401
641-424-0252Fax 641-424-0263
www.masoncityia.com28
ZILGE’SAPPLIANCE CENTER
26 6TH ST. S.E., MASON CITY, IA 50401423-2473 SALES • 423-2470 SERVICE
www.myzilges.com
Since 1968
Mason City All Risk Insurance,Inc.Dave Bernhardt, Owner
HOME • AUTO • FARM • CROPCommercial Insurance
Workers CompensationGroup Health Insurance
1415 S. Monroe Ave. • Mason City, IA 50401
800-427-8785Fax: 641-423-7645
www.masoncityallrisk.com
the historic and classically designed Prairie homes inRock Crest/Rock Glen, to modern watersidedwellings are located throughout the area’swelcoming neighborhoods. Many condos and twinhomes are available for those who desire less upkeep,while neighbors with green thumbs can choose fromthe many homes with spacious yards and gardens. Abeautiful lakefront dotted with year-round andsummer homes can be found in Clear Lake. If you arelooking for a place on the water, both Clear Lake andMason City offer lakefront options.
Renters have a choice of houses, duplexes andapartments located throughout the area, includingdowntown apartment living in Mason City and ClearLake.
North Iowa neighborhoods provide clear evidencethat residents embrace the Blue Zones philosophy.Neighborhood parks and community gardens bustlewith activity, and block parties and neighborhoodgatherings are a frequent sight.
29www.masoncityia.com
WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORSPLUMBING-HEATING-AIR CONDITIONING
45 19th Street SWMason City, Iowa 50401
Bus: 641-423-0164Toll Free: 800-685-0131
Fax: 641-423-0462
Plumb Supply Company is a distributor ofPlumbing, HVAC, Pipes, Valves and Fittings.Covering the state of Iowa with seventeenlocations offering midwestern values, strongcustomer service and a large inventory.Our company has serviced Iowa since 1946.
www.plumbsupply.com
Larry Elwood Construction
No Job Too Big Or Small,We Do Them All!!
New Home ConstructionRemodel • Concrete
CommercialSnow Removal
Snow Plow Sales & Service
641-423-3261
• ISA Certified Arborist
• Trimming & Tree/Stump Removal
• Complete Clean Up
• Serving Mason City, Clear Lake, & Surrounding Area
• Free Estimates & Consultations
• Fully Licensed & Insured
(641) 424-6808www.cetstree.com
PAYNE PLUMBING &HEATING CO., INC.
319 1st Street N.E. • Mason City, Iowa 50401
641-423-8011 • Fax: [email protected]
Commercial Residential
Sammy’s Cleaning ServiceIf all the others seem the same,Sammy’s Cleaning is your gain!
Samantha McMillan, Owner
Now accepting major credit & debit cards
INSURED & BONDED
Not Enough Time in the Day to Clean?
http:\\www.sammyscleaningservice.com
www.masoncityia.com30
servicemasterclean.com
ServiceMaster of Mason City641-424-0155 | 800-234-2108
20847 Osprey Avenue
Fire & Water DamageRestoration Specialists
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
MASON CITY BOARD OF REALTORS®
Mason City Multiple Listing Service
REALTORS® are the defenders of home ownership.Visit www.SeeIowaHomes.com
Visit www.masoncitymls.com
“Moving out or moving up . . . from yourfirst home to your dream home. Contact a
REALTOR® Member of the Mason CityBoard of REALTORS® today!”
Several options are available for senior living inNorth Iowa. Seniors who choose to live in their ownhouses have access to home health services. Assisted-living facilities and nursing homes are locatedthroughout the county.
The hometown spirit runs strong in North Iowa, andyour future neighbors are waiting to show you whatMidwest hospitality is all about.
31www.masoncityia.com
ShoppingAs the region’s retail hub, North Iowa is a dynamicepicenter of suburban shopping. The historicdowntown areas of both Mason City and Clear Lakeoffer a blend of stores in an upscale, hometownenvironment. Specialty shops and boutiques minglewith national retailers in a walkable circuit ofshopping delights.
Designated as an Iowa Cultural and Historic District,Downtown Mason City serves as a communitygathering place where annual events such asconcerts, festivals, sidewalk sales and holiday-themedprograms flourish. In the heart of downtown is
www.masoncityia.com32
Baker Floral641-424-3661
“We go beyond ordinary”
923 4th St. SWMason City, IA
www.bakerfloral.com
Southbridge Mall, an enclosed mall that housesseveral large chain stores and a variety of small retailand service-oriented shops. Downtown Mason Cityhas earned the national “Main Street” designation.
Several shopping centers and other areas of the citycomplement the central business district with uniqueand varied products from clothing and furniture, toquilting and jewelry making.
To the west of Mason City, shoppers rely upon a largecontingent of big box stores to make shopping foreveryday and specialty items convenient andpleasurable. Restaurants
Dining options span the culinary spectrum from finedining fare and ethnic flavors, to take-out and casualmeals.
Local restaurants haveadopted Blue Zonesprinciples to help makehealthy choices the easychoice. Locally grown andorganic choices reinforcethe USDA’s MyPlaterecommendations to makefruits, vegetables and grainthe majority of daily dietary intake.
33www.masoncityia.com
Two Great Locations!
Downtown Mason City • Downtown Ames641-423-5222 • 515-232-3261
Big & TallTuxedos
Men’s
Women’s
www.moormanclothiers.com
McCloskey Appliance
Vicky & John McCloskey, Owners
For All Your Appliance Needs1647 N. Federal • Mason City, IA 50401
641-423-7969 • 800-435-1916mccloskeyappliance.com
Mon-Fri 9-5 • Sat 9-3Check us out on facebook
www.mcdonalds.com
2010 S. Federal Avenue Mason City, IA641.423.6710
1651 4th St. SW Mason City, IA641.423.0417
4151 4th Street SWMason City, IA(641) 423-6767
3229 4th Street, Mason City(641) 424-3166
• Open daily lunch and dinner • Full bar• Happy hour Mon. - Fri. 3:00 to 7:00pm• Daily specials • 2 Kids eat free on Sundays
Southside Furniture & AppliancesSouthside Furniture & Appliances
www.southsidefurnituremasoncity.com
3567 South Federal • Mason City, Iowa 50401641-424-6831
We Buy Estates or By the PieceQUALITY Used Furniture
Bud, Jr., Tim, Steve, Jeff, James
NEW & USED
35www.masoncityia.com
A t the foundation of any great community isits educational system, and North Iowanstake education very seriously. Our schoolsstrive to meet students where they are, and
educators have committed to incorporating the BlueZones Power 9 Principles into the learningenvironment. In fact, high school students helped tolead the community Blue Zones application effort,and play a key role in the certification process.
School menus are prepared with a “plant slant,” andstudents are taught at a young age to move naturallyand to listen to their bodies to prevent unintentionalovereating.
Public SchoolsTest scores prove Iowa’s public schools are doing atremendous job. The Mason City Community SchoolDistrict and Clear Lake Community Schools takepride in promoting learning for all ages. The Mason City and Clear Lake schools share asuperintendent—a testament to the sharedcommunity value of promoting efficiency, whilekeeping a student-centered emphasis. Instructionalprograms are coordinated PreK to grade 12 with low13:1 student/teacher ratios to ensure all studentsexperience consistent and coherent programming.All public school teachers are licensed in theirassigned teaching areas.
www.masoncityia.com36
In Mason City, the district has been reorganized toprovide more developmentally appropriate learningenvironments in state-of-the-art buildings.Elementary schools serve PreK-4, the intermediateschools for grades 5-6, and middle school for grades 7-8. Mason City High School includes grades 9-12. InClear Lake, schools are organized PreK-5, 6-8 and 9-12.
High school students benefit from a large choice ofadvanced-placement courses, courses offered inpartnership with North Iowa Area CommunityCollege and many other post-secondary enrollmentoptions. In addition, Mason City’s outstanding musiceducation program has received national recognition,including designation by the Grammy Foundation asa “Grammy Signature School.” Mason City HighSchool was one of only 42 high schools across thenation to receive such a recognition and the onlyIowa high school to be recognized.
The public schools take pride in responding to theneeds of all learners through a full spectrum ofservices, from special education programming togifted education services.
Private SchoolsPrivate Christian-based schools are available forstudents of all ages.
The Newman Catholic School System offers atraditional parochial school education to students ofpreschool age through the 12th grade on a singleintegrated campus. Newman provides a safeenvironment for Christian learning whileemphasizing intellectual, spiritual, moral, physicaland social values. The ratio of students to teachers is15:1. The day care center, preschool and school isopen to children of all faiths.
Pre-SchoolEarly Childhood Education is a community value.Voluntary 4-year-old free PreK programs are availablefrom multiple sources, thanks to partnerships with
600 1st St. N.W., Ste. 108Mason City, IA 50401
641-424-0065
Amber Morud, Executive Directorcharliebrownchildcare.com
Charlie BrownPreschool and
Child Care Centers
37www.masoncityia.com
419 N. Delaware Ave.Mason City, IA 50401
Jodene Baker, Director
641.424.7073
Where Christ centeredcare and learning are
our priorities!
Faith + Academics + Cultural Arts + Teamwork = Our Mission
Childcare/Preschool: 641-423-0168Kindergarten-8th: 641-423-3101
2000 S. McKinley Ave., Mason City, IA 50401High School: 641-423-6939Foundation: 641-423-6638
2445 19th St. SW, Mason City, IA 50401
n e w m a n c a t h o l i c . o r gn e w m a n c a t h o l i c f o u n d a t i o n . c o m
Catholic School SystemEducating the Mind, Heart and Spirit
NEWMAN
the Mason City Community School District. Inaddition, parents can choose from several qualityprivate programs and integrated day care/learningenvironment at a choice of convenient locations.
Each of these educational choices promotes a sense ofbelonging for young people and families. Blue Zonesresearch emphasizes the long-term impact of friendson a person’s well-being. North Iowa schools arefocused upon developing social circles of healthyminded, supportive people.
www.masoncityia.com38
B usiness and educators in North Iowa worktogether closely to ensure our students arewell-prepared for the workforce. MasonCity is home to North Iowa Area
Community College (NIACC), which serves a nine-county region in North Iowa. In addition to themore traditional degree programs, NIACC boastsmany excellent continuing education and trainingcourses, which are heavily utilized by industriesthroughout North Iowa.
Much of this training is housed at NIACC’s MurphyManufacturing Technology Center. Designed byindustry and education leaders, this Center ispositioned to provide North Iowa’s manufacturingcommunity with an elite technical workforce.
A current initiative is underway to ensure all MasonCity and Clear Lake students have access to theNational Career Readiness Certificate programassessments, prior to high school graduation. NorthIowa has set a goal to be the first work-ready certifiedregion in the state.
The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC)Located on the NIACC campus, the JPEC helps tospur economic growth by providing programs,services and resources for aspiring and existingbusiness owners. Programs include business start-upand expansion services, technical assistance, access tocapital, creating entrepreneurial communities andregions, and entrepreneurial education.
39www.masoncityia.com
Buena Vista UniversityBuena Vista, based in Storm Lake, operatesa satellite campus at NIACC. They offer aprofessional and online studies programwith 19 majors and secondary educationendorsements in a variety of flexibleformats.
Kaplan UniversityKaplan offers degree and certificateprograms in fields such as health, arts andsciences, business, criminal justice,information technology and legaloccupations at its Mason City campus.
School Location # Miles from Mason City
University of Northern Iowa Cedar Falls, IA 82
Iowa State University Ames, IA 85
University of Iowa Iowa City, IA 160
University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN 120
www.masoncityia.com40
LaJames College of Cosmetology-Mason CityStudents at LaJames earn diplomas in cosmetology,nail technology, and massage therapy.
World Wide College of Auctioneering Mason City’s auction college (which ranks first ineducating world-class auctioneers) trains students indeveloping the auction chant, bookings, laws andlicenses, appraisals, advertising, personal image andmany other aspects of the auctioneering industry.
In addition to theseeducationalopportunities,Mason City andClear Lake are onlya short distance tomany other collegesand universities,several of whichhave local course offerings.
N orth Iowans can trust that they haveaccess to the very best in healthcare.This confidence is reinforced by data.Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa has a
reputation for quality based upon past performanceand a total dedication to excellence. The hospital hasbeen named a U.S. Top 100 Hospital for nine years,the only hospital in Iowa and one of 15 in thecountry that has achieved this level of success.
As one of the region’s largest employers, Mercyplayed a leadership role in Mason City’s quest to benamed a Blue Zones Demonstration Site. Our healthcare professionals understand the importance of totalwell-being to overall health.
Local specialists in cardiovascular surgery,neurosurgery, thoracic and vascular surgery, urology,dermatology, orthopedics, neurology, oncology,dialysis and many other fields supplement a strong
network of family physicians, internists,obstetrics/gynecology specialists and pediatricians.
Medical specialists in private clinics treat patients ofall ages. The area’s largest, Mason City Clinic, islocated on Mercy’s East Campus and is managed by
41www.masoncityia.com
www.masoncityia.com42
the basic tenet that specialists working together inthe same organization can provide patient-centeredservices in one convenient location.
In addition, each month physicians travel to ruralcommunities throughout the 14-county area,
providing more than 100 specialty clinics ensuringrural residents receive needed specialty care close tohome.
Healthcare does not end with a visit to the familydoctor in Mason City. Chiropractors, optometrists,dentists and therapists are readily available.
North Iowa senior citizens have the choice of severalindependent living facilities, assisted-livingcomplexes, nursing homes and adult day care/healthfacilities. For those wishing to remain at home, theMeals on Wheels program helps seniors maintaingood nutritional health without the worry ofpreparing meals. For social interaction, senior centersin Clear Lake, Mason City and Ventura offer a well-rounded calendar of activities each month.
North Iowa residents enjoy the technology, servicesand resources of a major modern medical centerwithin a family atmosphere of a hometown healthcare center.
43www.masoncityia.com
SANDE CHIROPRACTICDonald R. Hiscocks, DC
Serving North Iowa For Over 20 Years
Walk-In’s Welcome!
641-423-55881529 S. Monroe Ave. - Mason City, IA
• DOT Physicals • Sports Physicals• Affordable Chiropractic Care
• Most Insurance Accepted
Hours: M, T, W, F8-5 pm
Thur: 8-11:30 pmSat: 8-11 am
Facials• Pedicures• Manicures• MassageSpray Tanning• Waxing• Body Treatments• And More!
Gift Certificates AvailableHwy. 122 West (Next to Cinema West) • Mason City
(641) 423-1811 Tues.-Fri. 10-7 & Sat. 10-4www.aesthetictouchdayspa.com
Day SpaAesthetic Touch
DON’T BUY A HEARING AID!UNTIL YOU SEE OUR EXPERTS AT
Stephens North Iowa Hearing Aid CentersWe Offer:
• Price Match GuaranteeSee a better price and we will match it
• ExperienceLicensed Doctors of Audiology and
Hearing Professionals• Service
We provide the BEST solution for your hearing problem• Product Selection
We offer a variety of the latest hearingaids to fit YOUR lifestyle needs
• FinancingFinancing available
HURRY! Call us today to schedule an appointment!
Mason City2428 4th Street NW(641) 424-11111-800-640-1111
www.stephenshearingaidcenters.com
• Invisible hearing aid, it’s unnoticeable
• Incredible small design with huge performance
• Simple to use
HEARING AS EASY AS 1-2-3!
Dr. Judith G. Demro, P.C.655 S. Illinois Avenue, Mason City(641) 424-3375
New patients welcome! • Children and adults • Invisalign®
Customize your treatment with silver, ceramic self-ligating bracketsSatellite offices in Clear Lake, Forest City and Hampton
Specialist in OrthodonticsPracticing Since 1990
We Love Creating Beautiful Smiles
D E M R OO R T H O D O N T I C S
www.masoncityia.com44
You can expect honesty, integrity, and service fromour licensed and experienced audiologists.
(888) 749-5177
Professionals you can trust.
250 South Crescent DriveMason City, IA 50401
45www.masoncityia.com
3223 4th St. SW • Mason City641-424-6461
24 S. Hawkeye • Nora Springs641-749-5430
familydentistrymc.com
MASON CITYCLINICIowa Toll Free
1-800-622-1411
www.mcclinic.com
Mason City, Iowa 50401
SPECIALTY SERVICES250 S. Crescent Drive641-494-5200
• Allergy • Orthopaedics• Bariatrics • Plastic & • Ears, Nose & Throat Reconstructive• Gastrointestinal • Podiatry • General Surgery • Psychiatry• Heart Center • Urology• Neurology • Vascular
MRI & CTIMAGING SERVICES
520 S. Pierce, Suite 100641-494-5490
GENERAL RADIOLOGY& ULTRASOUND
IMAGING SERVICES250 S. Crescent Drive
641-494-5250
Vascular Screening
A truly great place to live and work!
1037 19th St. SW • Mason City, IA 50401 www.ioofhome.net
Find us on facebook
Care Center(641) 423-0428
Therapy Center(641) 424-5716
www.serenityspaandmore.com
MassagesFacialsWaxing
and More!
518 South 8th Street, Clear Lake, IA 50428
Call 641.357.2355Cell 641.430.6144
Serenity Spa
Friend us on Facebook forspecial savings and giveaways!
www.masoncityia.com46
ArchitectureBarcelona, Spain. Istanbul, Turkey. Tel Aviv, Israel.Florence, Italy. Miami, Florida. Dubai, United ArabEmirates. Marrakech, Morocco. Seattle, Washington.Oxford, England. Portland, Oregon. Chandigarh,India. Mason City, Iowa. What do these cities havein common? According to Conde’Nast Traveler, these are the “World’s Best Cities for ArchitectureLovers.”
Frank Lloyd Wright-America’s Greatest ArchitectAlthough not a native North Iowan, famed architectand designer Frank Lloyd Wright made his markduring an early 1900s stay in Mason City. Localattorneys and businessmen James Markley and JamesBlythe commissioned Wright to design a new hoteland bank building that incorporated their law offices.Markley’s neighbor, Dr. G.C. Stockman, persuadedWright to design a residence for his family.
e The Historic Park Inn HotelThe Park Inn Hotel is Wright’s only remaining hotel.The ambitious renovation was completed in Fall2011 when it opened as a 27 room boutique hoteland conference center. The hotel includes an upscale
restaurant and lounge, conference rooms and a ballroom. Many of the hotel’s original features remain.Guided tours are provided daily by trained docents.
e The Stockman House MuseumThe Stockman House designed by Frank LloydWright and built in 1908 for Dr. George and EleanorStockman as their family home, is now a museum.Restored to its 1908 presentation and furnished withperiod pieces, reproductions of FLW furnishings andoriginal possessions from the Stockman family.
Photo caption: Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959)
47www.masoncityia.com
e Rock Crest/Rock Glen Historic DistrictThis development wascompleted in the early 1900sby colleagues from Wright’sOak Park Studio who workedon The Park Inn/City NationalBank project. The youngarchitects eagerly accepted
commissions for projects in the booming community,since Wright, who was notorious for mismanaging hisfinances, was frequently late in making payroll. TheRock Crest/Rock Glen neighborhood is the largestcollection of Prairie Schoolarchitecture that is unified bya common setting in theworld.
e Architectural Walking TourVisitors can purchase aguidebook at the HistoricArchitecture InterpretiveCenter and embark on a self-guided tour of Mason City’sunique architecture. TheInterpretive Center houses agift shop and informativeexhibits.
e Mason City Public LibraryThe historic public library, made famous in thelibrary scene of The Music Man, was extensivelyrenovated in 2010. Designed by the renownedarchitects Holabird & Root, the Chicago firm alsooversaw the renovation and addition. In addition toits breath-taking setting, the library features a rareand distinctive literary autograph collection, and themost beautiful reading rooms in the world. Thelibrary provides the perfect atmosphere toDownshift—a Blue Zones Power 9 behavior.
www.masoncityia.com48
MusicA love for music is deeply entrenched in our region’sheritage. Composer Meredith Willson gave MasonCity the nickname of “River City” in his Broadwaymusical, The Music Man, which he wrote as avalentine to his hometown.
North Iowa’s signature celebration is the annualBand Festival, held Memorial Day weekend in MasonCity. It serves as a tribute to the community’s richmusical heritage and talented young musicians whocarry on this tradition.
The Music Man Square A sculpture of famous composer and musicianMeredith Willson greets visitors to The Music ManSquare, where the sounds of his music fill the air. Atthe heart of the square are the Meredith WillsonMuseum and the Meredith Willson Boyhood Home,which display artifacts from his life.
North Iowa Band Festival
49www.masoncityia.com
Rock & Roll Legends“The Day the Music Died” is remembered eachFebruary during the “50s in February” celebration, heldat the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake. This annualtribute honors the memory of the original WinterDance Party at the venue where Buddy Holly, RitchieValens and JP “The Big Bopper” Richardson performedtheir final concerts. The three singers perished in aplane crash just outside of Clear Lake in 1959.
The Surf books many high-profile entertainers eachyear who are eager to play concerts in this historicvenue.
Vocal MusicMason City sings! The Mason City High SchoolVocal Music Department has been recognized by theGrammy Foundation for its outstanding program. Itschoirs are routinely invited to perform at nationalcompetitions and world class venues such as LincolnCenter, Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center.
The Una Vocis Choral Ensemble is open to adultsingers through audition. In 2013, they were invitedto perform at Carnegie Hall with choral composerand conductor Eric Whitacre.
The River City Chorus was founded in 1952 as a division of the Mason City Chamber ofCommerce. Today, more than 70 men of all ages sing a Capella in the barbershop style.
www.masoncityia.com50
ArtCharles H. MacNider Art MuseumOne of the first stops on any cultural tour should bethe Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, home to animpressive permanent collection of American artthat includes work by Grant Wood (a commonvisitor to the region) and Thomas Hart Benton. Themuseum also hosts an extensive collection ofpuppets—including the marionettes used in themovie “The Sound of Music”—made and collectedby world-renowned puppeteer Bil Baird (a graduate ofMason City High School). Temporary exhibits, films,concerts, art classes, an art library and a sales/rentalgallery make the museum the cornerstone of the localarts community. The site is accredited by theAmerican Association of Museums and is wheelchairaccessible.
River City Sculptures on ParadeThis outdoor sculpture tour winds throughDowntown Mason City and leads participants to theCultural Crescent. Several sculptures feature thebeauty of the human body in motion in a nod to theBlue Zones project. The walk encourages Blue Zonesparticipants to Move Naturally and Downshift asthey explore the wonderful display of public art. Theexhibit is changed annually.
Bob White Fused Glass Creations Artist Bob White developed and perfected the fusedglass technique. Fused glass captures and imprisonslight and colors inside permitting a detail of designnot possible with stained glass. Several Mason Citybuildings feature Bob White fused glass creationsincluding the First Presbyterian Church, GreekOrthodox Church, First Congregational UCOC andthe MacNider Art Museum.
51www.masoncityia.com
MASON CITY SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER
641-423-1502326 4th Street NE • Mason City, IA 50401
GENERAL CONTRACTINGBATHROOM • BASEMENT • DRYWALLKITCHEN • DECKS • WOODWORKING
Your “Honey-Do” List Specialist
GREG HELD641-423-1690641-430-1961
Theatre ArtsMason City Community TheatreMembers of the troupe provide an array of
performances throughout the year. But get yourtickets early, with only 146 seats in the theatre,performances frequently sellout.
Stebens Children’s Theatre From September to May, this free-standing, award-winning children’s theater displays the talents of areayouth in productions tailored to the younger crowd.The 120 seats of this theater provide the audiencewith an intimate setting in which to enjoy incredibleyoung talent. Classes are offered year-round.
North Iowa Performing Arts & Leadership Series The stage of the 1200-seat North Iowa CommunityAuditorium brims with talent that spans the world.Talented entertainers and musicians, Broadwayshows, ballet companies, bestselling authors, andcaptains of industry grace the stage each year.
The Historic Surf BallroomThe Surf Ballroom is best remembered as the site forBuddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper’sfinal performance in 1959, but the ballroomcontinues to host a variety of musical talent. It hasbeen restored to its original splendor and boasts a6,300-square-foot dance floor. The Surf Ballroom’swalls bear the autographs and photographs of pastperformers, and it is the perfect place for a greatconcert or for a free self-guided tour.
www.masoncityia.com52
W arm weather or cold, indoors or out,fun activities abound in North Iowa.An extensive recreational trailsystem in the county provides a safe
place for hiking, running, biking and cross-countryskiing. Other activities to be enjoyed year-roundinclude paintball at the Armageddon Paintball Parkin Ventura, trap shooting at the Ventura Gun Cluband hunting throughout the county.
Whether it’s anorganized sportingevent or anotheroutdoor activity,every season hasexciting offerings:baseball, softball,basketball, soccer,football, volleyball,tennis, golf or takinga dip in the localswimming hole.
New aquatic centersin Mason City andClear Lake boast
water slides and other fun features. Many areas in thecounty offer fishing, sailing, boating, hunting,picnicking, bicycling and horseback riding.
Fore! Golf is a popular sport in North Iowa; theregion boasts a legion of well-manicured nine and 18-hole courses.
Camping is also a great way to experience nature, andarea kids can get a unique experience through theprograms offered by local Parks and RecreationDepartments. Adding to the offerings are campingprograms offered by the YMCA, Girl Scouts and BoyScouts which introduce youth and families to the greatoutdoors. Modern campsites are available throughoutthe county. Or, try a yurt at McIntosh Woods!
53www.masoncityia.com
Providing Information and Assistance to Older Adults and Their Families for Over 30 Years.Proudly Serving a 20-county area including Cerro Gordo, Floyd, Franklin, Hancock, Mitchell, Winnebago, and Worth Counties.
Visit Us At 22 N Georgia, Suite 216 in Mason City or on the Web at www.elderbridge.org • 641-424-0678 • 1-800-243-0678
NORTH IOWAGOLF
Full Line Pro Shop
Driving Range
Miniature Golf
LessonsClub Repair
Mason City, IA(641) 424-2244
www.northiowagolf.com
Jim Lensing“Your One Stop
North Iowa Pro Shop”
www.masoncityia.com54
Each yurt is a 16-foot, dome-like structure of canvasstretched over a wooden frame with a few windowopenings and is furnished with a full-size futon, twinbunk beds and a table and chairs.
In North Iowa, ice hockey, figure skating, cross-country skiing, snow shoeing and ice fishing arefavorite sports. East Park and Lynn Lorentzen Parkare ideal destinations for sledding. Snowmobileenthusiasts frequent Clear Lake, McIntosh Woods,Wilkinson Pioneer in Rock Falls and the Shell RockRiver.
Several private health clubs offer aerobics, Pilates,racquetball, spinning, strength training, swimming,Tae Kwon Do, tumbling, volleyball and yoga.
Mason City and Clear Lake both have movietheaters and bowling alleys, or you can make yourshot at either the Mohawk Archery Club or onindoor tennis courts at the North Iowa AreaCommunity College.
55www.masoncityia.com
R esearchers found that people who live in BlueZones share nine common lifestyle behaviorsthat have a direct impact on their increasedwell-being and longevity. These healthy
behaviors, called the Power 9 Principles, center on movingnaturally, eating wisely, knowing your life’s purpose andbelonging to a social community. The Power 9 Principlesare easy, small steps that everyone can take in their dailylives to feel better, live longer and be happier. Thesesimple behaviors are patterned after the lifestyles of peoplewho live in the Blue Zones.
1eMove NaturallyWe can get more physical activity naturally if we live inwalkable communities, de-convenience our homes andgrow gardens.
www.masoncityia.com56
2eKnow Your PurposePeople who know why they wake up in the morning liveup to seven years longer than those who don’t.
3eDown ShiftTo reverse inflammation related to every major age-relateddisease, find time each day to meditate, nap, pray or enjoya happy hour.
57www.masoncityia.com
4e80% RuleIt takes your stomach 20 minutes to tell your brain itis full, causing most people to accidentally overeat; sostop eating when you feel 80 percent full.
“Hara hachi bu” is a 2500-year old Confucianmantra, saying it before meals reminds Okinawans tostop eating when their stomach is 80 percent full.
5ePlant SlantEat a mostly plant-based diet that is heavy on beans, nuts,and green plants. This is consistent with the USDA’sMyPlate recommendations to make fruits, vegetables andgrains the majority of your intake.
www.masoncityia.com58
6eWine at 5Meet your friends at one of several cozy pubs orlounges. Blue Zones research shows if you have ahealthy relationship with alcohol, one or two glassesof wine daily could help add years to your life,especially when consumed with a healthy diet.
7eFamily FirstLiving in a thriving family is worth half a dozen extra yearsof life expectancy. Invest time in your kids, nurture amonogamous relationship and keep your aging parentsnearby.
59www.masoncityia.com
8eRight TribeYour friends have a long-term impact on your well-being.Expanding your social circle to include healthy minded,supportive people might be the most powerful thing youcan do to add years to your life.
Each December, the Tuba Christmas Concert is held in Downtown Mason City.
9eBelongRecommit, reconnect, or explore a newfaith-based community. No matter whichfaith, studies found that people whoparticipate in their faith communityfunctions four times a month live anextra four to 14 years.
www.masoncityia.com60
B lue Zones researchers discovered that nomatter which faith, people who show up totheir faith community four times per monthlive an extra four to14 years.
Residents of North Iowa are deeply rooted in theirfaith. People embrace the religious diversity thatexists in the community, where Catholic masses andLutheran sermons are among the voices heard.
61www.masoncityia.com
The First Congregational United Church ofChrist built a chapel in Mason City shortly afterthe area was settled. Today, more than 55congregations representing many denominationsmeet weekly to uplift, strengthen and supportone another. Newcomers to the area arewelcomed and are encouraged to find a worshipservice to meet their needs. Each congregationhas its own personality, and you are sure to findone that suits you.
North Iowans are servant-leaders. Volunteershold frequent food drives to fill the HawkeyeHarvest Food Pantry and serve daily meals atCommunity Kitchen. The homeless are offeredshelter at Trinity House of Hope and theNorthern Lights Homeless Shelter. In a time ofemotional need, people can turn to their choiceof top-notch counseling options.
Cultural diversity and religious diversity gohand-in-hand, as many faiths are represented inCerro Gordo County. Recommit, reconnect orexplore a new faith-based community. Acongregation warmly awaits you.
www.masoncityia.com62
T he history of this region, with its windingrivers and rolling prairies, dates back tolong before the area was settled by farmersand trappers. The early inhabitants of
Cerro Gordo County were the Winnebago and Siouxtribes. The tribes relied upon the lush forests andbountiful lakes for many years before Joseph Hewittand James Dickirson arrived in 1851.
Hewitt and Dickirson settled on the shores of ClearLake, a spring-fed body of water formed by glaciersthat is now seven miles long and 2.5 miles wide. Atan elevation of 1,247 feet, the lake is actually higherthan many of the buildings in nearby Mason City.The Clear Lake region is believed to have beenvisited in 1832 by Nathan Boone (son of famedexplorer Daniel Boone) although it was not officiallysettled until 1856.
Hewitt andDickirson’ssettlement soonbecame aMidwestern oasis.Hewitt traded with the Indians, and Dickirsonfarmed the rich soil. The town of Shibboleth wassettled in 1853 at the convergence of the WinnebagoRiver and Willow Creek by Hewitt, John Long andGeorge Brentner. The town changed names severaltimes—to Masonic Grove, to Masonville andeventually to Mason City—all reflections of thecommunity’s early reliance upon the brick and tileindustry.
A sawmill set up on the west side of the WinnebagoRiver became the new city’s first commercialbusiness. Settlers soon flocked to the region for itsabundant water supply and additional resources.
Frank Lloyd Wright Meredith Willson
Buddy Holly John Dillinger
63www.masoncityia.com
Nearby, the city of Clear Lake was settled in 1856; in1859 the railroad brought more economic success tothe area. Soon after, Mason City was incorporated.
Large deposits of limestone and clay opened the doorsfor a thriving mining and cement industry, and by1911 two large cement companies were operating inMason City. The cement industry continues to be animportant part of the community, where brick andtile were also once made. In 1912, the area was oneof the largest producers of brick and tile in the world,but the industry has since disappeared. Mason Cityhas now evolved to become a service, retail anddistribution center.
Kinney Pioneer MuseumToday, the early legacy of the region is preserved atthe Kinney Pioneer Museum located near the MasonCity Airport. The living history and vintage exhibitstransport patrons back to life on the Western frontier.The pioneer village blacksmith shop and log cabinfeature frequent demonstrations.
The Mason City Municipal Airport was founded in1927 by the Mason City Chamber of Commerce andthe Clausen-Worden Post of the American Legion,hence its airport code “MCW.” Charles Lindberghattended the Mason City Airport dedication shortlyafter his historic transatlantic flight. Sadly, more than
30 years later, the airport became known for anotherhistoric—and tragic—event. On February 3, 1959,singer and musician Buddy Holly left a performanceat the Surf Ballroom’s Winter Dance Party in ClearLake and boarded a private plane with Ritchie Valensand J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. Whiledeparting the Mason City airport in icy weather, theplane crashed in a field near Clear Lake. Today, amemorial in that cornfield is a tribute to these rock ‘nroll legends and “The Day the Music Died.”
The boyhood home of composer Meredith Willson,who is best known for his Broadway musicals TheMusic Man and The Unsinkable Molly Brown, can befound in Mason City. Willson also wrote the familiarChristmas tune “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot LikeChristmas.” The Music Man debuted on Broadway onDecember 19, 1957, and ran for 1,376 performances.Mason City served as the inspiration for the play’sfictional hometown of River City, which was also thesetting in the big-screen Hollywood adaptationstarring Shirley Jones and Robert Preston. Themusical won six Tony Awards, including one for BestMusical, and has since been revived on Broadwayand in the movies—a Walt Disney version starredMatthew Broderick and Kristin Chenoweth. TheBeatles even performed a cover version of “Till ThereWas You.”
www.masoncityia.com64
Each year, locals recall another famous event. OnMarch 13, 1934, notorious bank robber JohnDillinger and his accomplice, John Hamilton, eachsustained gunshot wounds while attempting to robthe First National Bank in Mason City. They onlynetted $52,000 from the robbery, far less than the$240,000 they expected. Dillinger had becomesomewhat of a Robin Hood figure to the public andhad planned to use his share of the $240,000 to fleethe country.
65www.masoncityia.com
We assure children become successful adults
Four OaksMason City Campus
980 South Iowa AvenueMason City, IA 50402Phone: 641-423-3222
www.fouroaks.org
www.masoncityia.com66
V isitors marvel when they experience allthere is to see and do in North Iowa.Discover an array of award-winningattractions, from puppets to prairie school
architecture, museums to malls, and an assortment offestivals and celebrations.
Our region boasts fabulous rivers and streams, as wellas Clear Lake, a large spring-fed recreational lake.
Swimming, boating, sailing, and fishing are frequentpastimes in North Iowa.
In addition to a rich musical heritage, the area is anepicenter for architecture buffs. Bicycle enthusiastsbenefit from miles of paved trails, and winter sportssuch as fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling,and ice sports are plentiful.
67www.masoncityia.com
Indoor activities are plentiful, beginning with Diamond Jo Casino. Just 20 minutes from Mason City, the casinooffers exciting games of chance, big name entertainment, convention space, and a variety of dining options.
The River City Dames of Anarchy are a flat track roller derby team that provides fast-paced, fun entertainment with Roller Derby bouts.
68 www.masoncityia.com
The annual "50's in February" celebration at the historic Surf Ballroom pays tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson. These rock'n roll legends played their final concert at The Winter Dance Party in 1959 before their tragic plane crash just after take-off from the Mason City Municipal Airport.
69www.masoncityia.com
ASSA ABLOY, the global leaderin door opening solu�ons.
The fastest growing and
most produc�vesteel door and
steel framemanufacturer
in the field.
www.masoncityia.com70
North Iowa’s Premier family club
3331 19th Street • mason city, ia 50401clubhouse: 641-424-3014 • Golf shop: 641-424-2173
www.masoncitycountryclub.com
Mason CityCountry Club
71www.masoncityia.com
We know that sometimes when you are on the road or on the jobday after day the thing you miss most is your family. Our hotel is
locally owned and operated by our family onsite. Remember,"When you can't stay with your family, stay with ours!"
24 5th Street SW • Mason City, IA 50401
641-424-2910www.americanbestinnandsuites.com202 1st Street SE, Mason City • 641-420-1823
O F F I C E R E N TA L S
A Civil War Reenactment is held each fall in MasonCity’s East Park. Civil War enthusiasts from all overthe country gather to depict one of the war’s famousbattles, as well as share living history.
The sport of rugby has a long history in North Iowa.The River City Rugby Football Club was establishedin Mason City in 1972. The Club competes in twoseparate seasons, April and May in the Spring, andSeptember and October in the Fall. The clubcelebrated its 40th Anniversary in June 2012. Over 250 players have played for the club since itsinception. The club competes against teams fromIowa, Minnesota and Nebraska in the MidwestDivision 3.
www.masoncityia.com72
Family fun is at the forefront in North Iowa. The annual Band Festival serves as the official kick-off to thesummer season and is presented free-of-charge by the Mason City Chamber of Commerce.
73www.masoncityia.com
Our Mission: to promote progressivecommunity and economic development tobenefit the North Iowa region.
We are an independent organizationoperated by a small group of paid staffand hundreds of volunteers. TheMason City Area Chamber of
Commerce is not supported by tax dollars and has nopower to impose taxes or other measures that woulddirectly increase the cost of living for the citizens ofour community. It is simply a private business with avested interest in activities to grow the localeconomy and improve the business climate.
Here to Serve
www.masoncityia.com74
WHO is the Chamber? Your friends, neighbors andco-workers. Look around…we’re everywhere. We arethe retailers, manufacturers, service providers,entrepreneurs and everyone employed by theseenterprises. Collectively, we drive the North Iowaeconomy.
Your Chamber...By The Numbers• The Chamber’s membership rolls include more
than 650 local businesses
• Chamber members employ 18,572 people locally
• Chamber members contribute the largest share of$22,040,799 in commercial and industrial propertytaxes to support local government
• Chamber businesses pump hundreds of millions ofpayroll dollars into our collective pockets, NOTincluding the multiplier effect of employee localpurchases of food, clothing, housing,entertainment, etc.
Yes, your Chamber takes a very special interest inpromoting commerce to keep our fragile financialecosystem thriving and viable—which ultimatelybenefits every member of our community.
75www.masoncityia.com
Joining the Chamber is a good thing to do, but whatexactly does an active chamber membership sayabout you or your company? Studies show that beingactive in the local chamber of commerce is a goodstrategy for businesses to use in communicating toconsumers that their company uses good businesspractices, is involved in the community, cares aboutcustomers and is reputable and trustworthy.
Members of the Mason City Chamber of Commercehave the option to use the many amenities of theNorth Iowa Regional Commerce Center.
• Use of meeting rooms is available to members free-of-charge, and the special events room, patio andtraining room can be reserved for a small charge.
• Spacious, climate-controlled storage units areavailable for off-site records storage and otherneeds.
• Beautiful, well-appointed, “Virtual Offices” arerented by the hour, day, week or month.
www.masoncityia.com76
1st Insurance ................................................. 3AAA Travel & Insurance........................... 23Aesthetic Touch Day Spa ........................... 43AGP a Cooperative .................................... 15American Best Inn & Suites....................... 71American Realty & Management, Inc. ...... 30Armour-Eckrich Meats, LLC...................... 16Baker Floral................................................. 32Bauer Built Tire........................................... 23Behr Iron & Metal ..................................... 19Bergland & Cram........................................ 64Blazek Electric Inc. .................................... 18Buffalo Wild Wings..................................... 34Cargill Kitchen Solutions ........................... 15Cavalier Coaches, Inc. -North Iowa Bus Company, Inc. .................. 21Century 21 Preferred................................... 27Charlie Brown Preschool and ChildCare Centers ............................................... 36Clarion Inn........................ Inside Back CoverClear Lake Bank & Trust .............................. 5Comfort, Inc./Carrier.................................. 27Community National Bank .......................... 1Corporate Farmer........................................ 18Country Inn & Suites ................................. 69Culver-Hahn Electric Supply ..................... 20Curries......................................................... 69Cutting Edge Tree Services......................... 29D&D ........................................................... 19Dean Snyder Construction ......................... 15Demro Orthodontics................................... 43Diamond Jo Casino .......... Inside Front CoverEdgar Financial Group.................................. 5Elderbridge Agency on Aging .................... 53Electronic Engineering ................................. 3Employment Plus ........................................ 17Express Employment Professionals ............. 13Family Dentistry.......................................... 45Farmers State Bank ....................................... 3Federal Fire Equip. Co. .............................. 20First Citizens ................................ Back CoverFour Oaks .................................................... 65Gainey Conference Center......................... 40Godfather's Pizza......................................... 34Golden Grain Energy.................................. 18
Graham ....................................................... 23Hardee's....................................................... 23Hawkeye Auto Body................................... 23Hearing Associates...................................... 44Heartland Asphalt, Inc. .............................. 23Henkel Construction Company ................. 65Hertz Farm Management, Inc..................... 27Historic Park Inn .......................................... 3Hogan • Hansen......................................... 15Holiday Inn Express& Suites............................ Inside Front CoverHosmer Honda............................................ 60I.O.O.F. Home & CommunityTherapy Center........................................... 45Interstate Motor Trucks Inc........................ 19Iowa Heartland Credit Union .................... 13Jerry Hart Photography .............................. 53Johnson Heating &Air Conditioning, LLC................................. 5Kaplan University....................................... 40KIMT News 3 ............................................... 2Kraft Foods .................................................. 17La'James College......................................... 37Land O' Lakes Purina Feed LLC................. 17Landfill of North Iowa ................................ 27Larry Elwood Construction......................... 29Larson Contracting..................................... 17Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant ................. 33Lehigh Cement Company LLC.................. 16Mason City All Risk Insurance, Inc. .......... 28Mason City Board of Realtors..................... 30Mason City Business Systems, Inc.............. 13Mason City Clinic ...................................... 45Mason City Community School District ..... 7Mason City Country Club .......................... 70Mason City Glass Service........................... 15Mason City Municipal Aiport ...................... 7Mason City Recycling Center Ltd. ............ 16Mason City Red Power ............................... 20Mason City Senior Activity Center ........... 51McCloskey Appliance ................................ 33McDonald's ................................................. 33McKiness Excavating, Inc. ......................... 16Mechanical Air Systems Company ............ 25Mediacom Business ..................................... 53
Megatalk by I Wireless............................... 17Mercy Medical Center - North Iowa............ 1Mercy-City-Lehigh Family Credit Union .. 54Midwest Construction .................................. 5MJ Construction ......................................... 51Moorman Clothiers .................................... 33Newman Catholic School System.............. 37NIVC Services, Inc..................................... 65North Iowa Area Community College....... 39North Iowa Community Credit Union ...... 15North Iowa Community Healthcare .......... 45North Iowa Eye Clinic P.C. ....................... 44North Iowa Golf ......................................... 53Payne Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.......... 29Petersen Plaza.............................................. 71Petro Blend ................................................. 19Plumb Supply Company ............................. 29Point Builders North, Inc. .......................... 15PostNet ....................................................... 33Potter & Brant, P.L.C. ................................ 20Praise Community Church ......................... 61Pritchard's of Clear Lake and MasonCity Outlet Center ..................................... 23Sammy's Cleaning Service ......................... 29Sande Chiropractic..................................... 43Schukei Chevrolet ...................................... 23Schupick & Associates PC ......................... 15Serenity Spa ................................................ 45ServiceMaster Clean................................... 30Southside Furniture & Appliances ............. 33Soy Energy LLC .......................................... 18Stephens North Iowa HearingAid Centers................................................. 43Sunbeam Christian Childcare& Preschool ................................................ 37T & R Custom Tops................................... 27TeamQuest .................................................... 2Turning Leaf Counseling ............................ 43U.S. Cellular ............................................... 33United Sugars Corporation......................... 19Walmart ...................................................... 33Woodharbor Custom Cabinetry ................. 19The YMCA................................................. 53Zilge's Appliance Center ............................ 28
