Diana K. Nelson, CPA
City of Mason Mayor and Council Member
The Mason Symphony Orchestra: Recently re-elected to Mason City Council, Diana is now serving as mayor. As the Arts & Culture committee chair, she is excited by the emotion and energy MSO performances bring to the community. “I was captivated by the holiday MSO performance in December. Mason is so fortunate to have such a high-quality orchestra.”
Events that Give Back: Diana made Mason her home in 1999 and was inspired by the strong desire to give back and do what is right by family, friends and neighbors. “The Manor House is one of the best community partners in Mason. Aside from hosting beautiful events for businesses and individuals, they are strong supporters of giving back to the community.”
Fitness & Community: For a stress-free workout, Diana loves Health Designs. Currently celebrating their 10th anniversary in Mason, they pride themselves on building strength, confidence and a sense of community. “Lee Hutson (owner) will have you laughing and time will go by so quickly. He will push you to be your best.”
Downtown Park: Mason City Council voted unanimously to start the planning process for Gould Park in Downtown Mason in 2023. Diana looks forward to its development, “We have a blank slate and will build a beautiful place for kids to play and create memories that will last a lifetime.”
Lelle Hedding
Deerfield Township Board of Trustees President
The Arts Alliance: Lelle was recently re-elected and sworn into a second term as the Deerfield Township Board of Trustees President. She’s proud of many amenities available to township residents, including the collaborative partnership with The Arts Alliance. In addition to Handmade Markets, they offer creative opportunities for all ages. “There is truly something for all members of your family throughout the year from this passionate arts organization.”
Outdoor Activity/Park: Kingswood Park, a 100-acre green space and the township’s signature park, boasts a farmers’ market, beautiful pollinator gardens, a local prairie ecosystem, two newly added playgrounds for children and an adult ninja course. “We’ve managed to incorporate the right balance of creating without disturbing.”
Sweet Entrepreneur: A local success story, The AMAEzing Sweet Shoppe and Bakery started in the home kitchen of Ashley Mae. This decadent bake shop is appreciated for yummy gluten-free cookies, delicious holiday-themed cheesecakes and much more. “This is my go-to place to splurge on calories!”
Sounds of Deerfield: Lelle’s favorite local event is the Cincinnati POPS Orchestra at Deerfield Township’s Cottell Park, returning for the third year in 2024. “Hands down the entire region would agree the world-famous Cincinnati POPS concert is THE summer event to attend!”
Fitness Enthusiast: To get her hot yoga fix, Lelle loves Body Alive. “I have been a member since they opened their township studio in 2018. Although I go to their hot yoga classes, their pilates, barre and Lagree classes are popular too.”
Holly & Scott Gibson
Shine Like Sable Founders & Mason City Council Member
Family-Friendly Arts Scene: For 25 years, Scott and Holly have made Mason their home and raised their six children here. “We love the ROYAL Theatre Company and the people involved with it. They have been so good to our family over the past 5 years.”
Community Service: Scott was recently elected to the Mason City Council and Holly serves on the Mason Parks Board and Kiwanis. They also founded the nonprofit, Shine Like Sable as a way to redirect their grief after losing their 10-year-old daughter Sable unexpectedly. “We do our best to honor and remember Sable, while helping and serving others - just like she would have done.”
Food & Drink Favorites: Two Cities Pizza, Kala Coffeehouse, Whippy Dip and Chicken Salad Chick are beloved by the Gibsons and have also held events for Shine Like Sable. “They are our personal favorites, and have a heart for giving back. We feel so honored to partner with them.”
Local Shopping: Scott and Holly shop locally whenever possible at Moss & Ivy, Basores Flowers and Mims Off Main. “We love living in a community that has so many amazing small businesses.”
Western & Southern Open Tennis Tournament: They have been married for 28 years and make the annual tennis tournament a date day. “We feel so blessed to have such a special event right here in our backyard.”
