Written by: Colleen Frein, Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce
It’s hard to believe the holidays are already here. There is something about Mason City this time of year that feels a little like a Hallmark movie. Downtown lights are glowing, calendars are filling with holiday traditions, and families are making plans to come home for Thanksgiving.
And that last part has me thinking.
Over the next several weeks, people who grew up here will return to spend time with family and friends. They’ll drive through familiar neighborhoods, visit favorite local businesses, and reconnect with people they haven’t seen in years. Along the way, they might notice how much has changed and remember how good it feels to be here.
We spend a lot of time talking about attracting people to Mason City, but sometimes our best ambassadors are the people who already know us. For some, coming home for the holidays might even plant a seed: Could I see myself living here again?
That is where all of us come in.
When family and friends visit this holiday season, show them what’s new. Talk about local opportunities, visit a favorite restaurant or shop, and remind them what you love about living here. Maybe even ask, “Have you ever thought about coming back?”
Our community culture statement reminds us to “create a place where people choose to belong.” The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to put that idea into practice. Sometimes, people simply need an invitation.
So, this Thanksgiving, enjoy the traditions, family stories, and all the things that make coming home special. And if someone at your table can picture themselves in Mason City again, make sure they know there’s a place for them here.