There Are Perks To A Day On The Road

Today I met clients down in Rockwell, Iowa and I made sure to take a little extra time to stop into a locally owned business I’d been wanting to check out – Wandering Brew.

I first heard about them when I saw Bakery Lane carrying their products, and I knew the next time I was in Rockwell, I’d be stopping in. I don’t know why, but I had a feeling the coffee would be good… and I wasn’t wrong.

But they’re more than just a coffee shop.

Yes, the coffee is excellent but they also offer a variety of drinks, a food menu, treats, and even merchandise. It’s the kind of place that feels intentional, welcoming, and rooted in community.

What I loved even more? They carry food from another locally owned business, Roots, located right here in Mason City.

How cool is that?

Three locally owned businesses – connected, supporting each other, and strengthening the communities they’re part of. That’s exactly what “Locally Grown; Locally Owned” is all about.

At Lee Realty, it’s not just our tagline, it’s our way of life.

I see a lot of conversations online about what people want in our communities: more shops, more restaurants, more options. But here’s the truth: those things only exist if we support them.

Local businesses don’t survive on good intentions. They survive because people show up.

When we choose to spend our money locally, it stays here. It supports families who live here. It creates opportunity. And it gives others the confidence to take that leap and start something of their own.

Whether it’s Mason City, Clear Lake, Nora Springs, Manly, or Rockwell—our communities thrive when we support the people building them.

So next time you’re deciding where to grab coffee, a meal, or a gift – choose local.

It matters more than you think.