A New Year always means new ideas. New thoughts of what you can be doing differently in your life. What did you do in 2011 that you want to change in 2012 OR continue to do because it had such a positive response? Were you able to get that promotion at work like you wanted? [...]
The long story: When I was growing up, my dad always told me that if you don’t vote, you can’t complain about who wins or what they do in office. The older I get, the more I see what he meant. I can easily think of a few elections I’ve experienced where there is a [...]
Did you know that nearly 40% of your property taxes go toward K-12 schools? And did you know that less than 2% of registered voters in Mason City and Clear Lake voted in the last school board election? You know, the school board, that body that determines how your 40% will be spent? Whether or [...]
1) We welcome you! We know it’s intimidating to go somewhere alone or to be “late to the party.” Our events are always open to new people, and we see new faces all the time. You may feel shy about joining us for the first time, but it won’t last long. 2) We are a [...]
What’s the job description of a mayor, a councilperson or a county supervisor? How are my property taxes calculated and where does the money go? How do the City Council and the County Board of Supervisors function, and how can I weigh in on something being considered? What is a local option tax and am [...]
I’ll be honest. I’m a little biased. After all, I am one of the Professional Development (P.D.) co-chairs for North Iowa Connect. But that’s not the only reason everyone could use some professional development. It’s true that “who” you know is sometimes just as important as “what” you know. Without one person in particular, I [...]
In a country where you are encouraged to speak without fear as it is our right, when does speaking your mind become too much? Many times in our day-to-day lives we are constantly critiqued…from our job performances to our relationships with friends or loved ones, people are always expressing ways for us to do and [...]
When I graduated from MCHS, I moved away from Mason City and vowed never to live here again.. When my sister finished law school and moved back to Mason City, I said, “Why would anyone want to live in Mason City?” Her reply? “It’s so easy to live here.” Fast forward 20-some years, and now [...]
Greetings North Iowa Connectors: Many times we overlook “little common sense” things which will turn us into successful individuals. This article (http://davidmaister.com/articles/1/47/) provides great information for us young professionals on how to be a successful business person. Read and enjoy! -Kara Ruge | Social Networking Co-Chair
Have you ever said to yourself, “I’m bored. There’s nothing to do in North Iowa!” If so, this is the blog post for you. I’m going to share with you some insider tips on how to learn all about what’s going on in North Iowa. The upcoming Fourth of July weekend is a perfect opportunity [...]






