City of Ames’ Podcasts

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Jehan Faisal, Volunteer Coordinator at the Ames Public Library, and dedicated library volunteer Dana Eaton. Together, they explore how volunteers help bring the library to life, from organizing book sales to supporting daily operations and community programs. Jehan shares how she found her way into library work and what it takes to coordinate a diverse and passionate volunteer base. Dana offers a firsthand perspective on what it’s like to give back through service, along with a few memorable moments from her time at the library. Whether you're a lifelong reader or just looking for a way to get involved in the community, this conversation highlights the meaningful impact of volunteering and why the library remains such a vital part of Ames. ✨ Episode Highlights How Jehan Faisal became Volunteer Coordinator at the Ames Public Library The wide range of volunteer opportunities available, from shelving to events Who volunteers at the library and why it’s open to everyone Dana Eaton’s personal experience and favorite moments as a volunteer The real impact volunteers have on staff, patrons, and the broader community Behind the scenes of the upcoming Library Book Sale How to get started as a volunteer, including training and onboarding Quick rapid fire book and library favorites from both guests 📖 Get Involved Interested in volunteering or checking out the upcoming book sale? Visit AmesPublicLibrary.org to learn more about opportunities, events, and ways to support your local library. Volunteering at the library isn’t just about books. It’s about building connections, supporting learning, and strengthening the community one story at a time.

Coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, and chocolate all contain caffeine, but how much do we really know about it? In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield explore the ins and outs of caffeine. The bottom line: enjoy your caffeine fix (because Kacie and Bailey definitely will), but stay informed about how it affects your body. Episode Highlights What Is Caffeine? A look at caffeine as a natural stimulant produced by plants that affects the brain, nervous system, muscles, and heart. Where Caffeine Comes From Plants such as coffee beans, tea leaves, cacao, and others naturally produce caffeine. The episode explores how these sources end up in everyday foods and drinks. How Much Caffeine Is in Common Foods and Drinks A comparison of caffeine levels in coffee, soda, energy drinks, tea, and chocolate, and why the amounts can vary. The Benefits and Downsides The hosts discuss both the potential positives of caffeine, such as alertness and focus, and the possible negative side effects including sleep disruption, anxiety, and overconsumption. Research on Caffeine and Health Kacie and Bailey explore recent studies that examine how caffeine interacts with the body and what research suggests about long term health outcomes. How to Check Your Caffeine Intake Listeners can look up caffeine content in common foods and drinks through resources available at CSPI. Resources https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772417424000104 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2844764 https://www.delish.com/food-news/a70300713/caffeinated-coffee-tea-lower-dementia-risk-study/ https://CSPI.org https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10459237/ https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-side-effects https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-979/caffeine Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org

The City of Ames is getting ready to open the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center, and it is safe to say this is the kind of place kids will never want to leave. In this episode, Parks and Recreation Director Keith Abraham joins host Bill Gebhart to share what residents can expect, from pools and programs to year-round recreation opportunities. With an anticipated opening in April 2026, the facility is designed to serve swimmers of all ages, from early morning lap swimmers to kids who keep asking for just one more trip down the slide. What You’ll Learn What the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center is and how it fits into Ames’ parks and recreation system Key features of the facility, including lap, recreation, and wellness pools, plus a water slide Additional amenities like multipurpose spaces, walking areas, and classrooms Programming options for all ages, including open swim, lap swim, aqua fitness, and adaptive programs Fitness offerings such as group classes and specialty programs Admission options, including daily rates and membership passes How the new indoor center will complement the seasonal Furman Aquatic Center Accessibility features designed to welcome all users Opportunities for rentals, parties, and special events Key Highlights Opening timeline: Anticipated April 2026 Year-round access to aquatic recreation and fitness Flexible programming for families, individuals, and groups Designed to complement the Furman Aquatic Center during summer months Memorable Moments Keith shares his path into parks and recreation and what brought him to Ames A preview of the facility’s features and how they will serve the community Reflections on what he is most excited for residents to experience Rapid-fire answers on favorite swim times and unexpected aquatic favorites Learn More For updates on amenities, programming, and passes, visit: www.CityofAmes.org/Aquatics Closing Thought The Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center is built for everyday moments, whether that is a quick swim, a fitness class, or a kid asking for one more turn down the slide. It is a space designed to bring people together all year long.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, March 24 Ames City Council meeting. Their conversation highlights several important topics that impact City operations, community services, and future planning efforts. Susan and Mayor Haila break down what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions connect to the day to day lives of Ames residents. In this episode, we discuss: • The job description and recruitment process for Ames’ next City Attorney • Updates and actions related to Parks and Recreation projects and services • The value of resident feedback and how it helps shape Council decisions • The award of contracts for the new Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames. Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Get involved: Watch meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer to talk about two important federal funding programs that support housing and neighborhood development in Ames: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME. They break down what these programs are, how they’re funded, and the types of local projects they support, from housing rehabilitation to community services. The conversation also highlights the importance of public input and how residents can help shape funding decisions at the upcoming public forums. Whether you're a resident, part of a local organization, or just curious how these decisions get made, this episode offers a clear and approachable look at how these programs impact Ames. 🔑 Episode Highlights What CDBG and HOME funding programs are and how they work How federal funding from HUD supports local housing initiatives Examples of projects funded in Ames, including housing rehabilitation and community services Why public input is a critical part of the funding process What to expect at the March 25 public forums How residents and organizations can participate, even if they cannot attend in person 📅 Important Dates CDBG and HOME Public Forums 🗓 Tomorrow, March 25 🕚 11:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. 📍 Ames City Hall Council Chambers, 515 Clark Ave These forums are open to residents, organizations, and anyone interested in learning more or sharing input on how funding should be used. 💡 Why It Matters CDBG and HOME funding play a key role in maintaining and improving housing options, supporting vulnerable populations, and strengthening neighborhoods. Community input helps ensure these resources are used in ways that reflect local needs and priorities. 🔗 Learn More Learn more on the City’s website on the Housing page. 🎧 Closing Note Have ideas about future topics or guests? Let us know. We would love to hear from you as we continue highlighting the people and programs shaping Ames.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Mayor John Haila to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting. The Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 24, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave. A special Ames City Council meeting will be held earlier that evening at 5:15 p.m., providing an opportunity for public input on the proposed 2026–2027 City budget and Tax Levy. This agenda includes a number of items for Council consideration, and while this episode does not cover every topic, it highlights several discussions that may be of particular interest to residents and the community. This podcast is designed to help listeners better understand what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to consider, and how those discussions may impact Ames. In this episode, we discuss: Key highlights from the March 24 City Council agenda The purpose and importance of the public input session on the proposed budget and Tax Levy What selected items mean for residents and the community How to follow the meeting and stay engaged in local government Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Have a question or topic you would like covered? Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Important note City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording. From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield are joined by Nancy Shaw, Wellness Program Manager for the City of Ames. Nancy reflects on her journey into the wellness field and the path that eventually led her to the City of Ames. Throughout the conversation, she shares insights from her long career helping people improve their health and well being. The discussion explores how fitness and wellness trends have evolved over the years, common misconceptions people have about working out, and the many ways that well being can look different for each person. Nancy also talks about how our approach to wellness often changes as we age and why finding balance is an important part of maintaining lifelong health. As Nancy prepares for her upcoming retirement, the conversation also highlights the impact she has had on wellness programming and the many people she has supported along the way. Episode Highlights Nancy’s Path to Wellness Nancy shares how she became interested in fitness and wellness and what led her to a career focused on helping others live healthier lives. How Fitness Has Changed Over the Years From workout trends to changing perspectives on health, Nancy reflects on how the wellness industry has evolved during her career. Breaking Common Wellness Myths The conversation addresses misconceptions about exercise and well being, and why wellness is about more than intense workouts or strict routines. Wellness Through Different Stages of Life Nancy discusses how our needs and goals change as we age and how people can continue prioritizing wellness at every stage of life. Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org

Wellness can sometimes feel like a buzzword. In reality, it is about the everyday choices, small habits, and community connections that help people live healthier, fuller lives. In the first episode of Live Well. Be Well., meet your hosts Kacie Schumann, Health Promotion Coordinator for the City of Ames, and Bailey Dingfield, Health Promotion Intern. They share their backgrounds, what sparked their interest in health and wellness, and why they are passionate about helping people find practical ways to live well. This new City of Ames podcast focuses on what wellness looks like in real life. Through conversations with local guests, the series will highlight resources available in the community, explore different aspects of well being, and offer simple ideas listeners can try in their own lives. Whether you are looking for inspiration, practical tips, or ways to connect with wellness resources in Ames, this podcast aims to make wellness feel approachable and achievable. Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org. Episode Highlights Getting to Know the Hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield introduce themselves and share how their personal and professional journeys led them to focus on health promotion and community wellness. What Wellness Really Means The conversation explores how wellness goes beyond trends and focuses on everyday habits, supportive communities, and accessible resources. What to Expect from the Podcast Future episodes will feature local guests, highlight programs and services available in Ames, and offer ideas listeners can try to support their own well being.

Spring is on the way, and the Ames Public Library is helping the community get growing. In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart talks with Megan Klein-Hewett, Adult Services Manager at the Ames Public Library, about the Seed Library program. Megan explains how residents can “check out” seeds, grow them at home, and return seeds from their harvest if possible to help keep the program thriving. The conversation explores how the Seed Library supports food access, sustainability, lifelong learning, and community connection. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or someone planting your first herb in a container on the patio, the Seed Library offers a welcoming way to try something new this spring. Episode Highlights 🌱 What Is a Seed Library? Instead of books, visitors can take home packets of seeds such as vegetables, herbs, flowers, and pollinator friendly plants to grow in their own gardens. 🌼 Accessible Gardening for Everyone The program is designed for all experience levels. Even beginners or people with limited space can participate through container gardening. 🌎 Why the Library Started the Program The Seed Library supports sustainability, food access, and hands on learning while building community connections. 🌿 What You Can Grow Available seeds may include vegetables, herbs, native plants, and flowers that support pollinators. 📚 How to Participate Stop by the Ames Public Library, browse the Seed Library, and take a few seed packets home to plant. If your plants produce seeds later in the season, you can save and return some to help the program continue. 🤝 Community Involvement Residents can contribute by donating seeds, volunteering with sorting and organizing, or sharing their gardening successes with the community. Spring Gardening Tips Start simple. Herbs and easy vegetables are great first plants. Container gardening is a good option if you do not have yard space. Spring is the perfect time to experiment and learn as you grow. Visit the Ames Public Library to explore the Seed Library and find upcoming spring programs, including gardening workshops and other seasonal events. If you have been thinking about starting a garden, or simply want an excuse to get outside and try something new, the Seed Library offers a simple place to begin. A few seeds, a little soil, and a bit of curiosity can go a long way.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda is joined by Ames Mayor Pro Tem Anita Rollins to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, March 10 Ames City Council meeting. Mayor John Haila was out of town for the meeting, so Mayor Pro Tem Rollins stepped in to help walk through the evening’s agenda. Their conversation highlights several policy discussions, contracts, and funding decisions that will shape projects and services across the community. Susan and Mayor Pro Tem Rollins discuss what Council considered, why these items matter, and what residents can expect moving forward. In this episode, we discuss: • The process to recruit and hire Ames’ next City Attorney. • A proposed letter from the City to state legislators regarding issues affecting local government. • Council approval of a contract for the new curbside recycling program and what it means for Ames residents. • Funding for local climate action grants that support sustainability initiatives in the community. • Allocation of federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME funding to support housing and community development projects. • The bids received for construction work related to the Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus (R3C) project. • A rezoning discussion involving the Ames Community School District and how the change supports future district plans. From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames. Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Get involved: Watch meetings live or on demand on the City's YouTube View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

Electricity powers nearly every part of our daily lives, but many residents do not realize that when we use electricity can matter just as much as how much we use. In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Layne Fober, Energy Services Coordinator with the City of Ames Electric Services, to break down the concept of Time-of-Use (TOU) electric rates. Layne explains how electricity demand changes throughout the day, why peak usage times put pressure on the electric grid, and how shifting certain activities such as running dishwashers, doing laundry, or charging electric vehicles can help residents save money. The conversation also explores how TOU rates benefit the broader community by improving grid efficiency, reducing costs, and supporting long-term energy sustainability. Whether you want to lower your electric bill or simply understand how Ames manages its electric system, this episode offers practical insights and easy-to-follow tips.   Episode Highlights What Time-of-Use electric rates are and why they exist Why electricity costs vary depending on time of day and demand How peak hours affect the electric grid and infrastructure Simple ways residents can shift energy use and save money The role of electric vehicles and overnight charging How Time-of-Use rates help keep Ames’ electric system efficient and affordable Common misconceptions about TOU rates and how they actually work Key Takeaways Time matters. Electricity is typically more expensive during high-demand periods and less expensive during off-peak hours. Small changes add up. Running appliances or charging devices during off-peak times can help lower your bill. Flexible households may benefit most. Residents who can shift energy use such as charging EVs overnight or running appliances later in the evening may see the biggest savings. Community impact. Managing demand helps the city avoid costly infrastructure expansion and keeps the electric system reliable.   Learn More Interested in exploring Time-of-Use electric rates for your household? Visit www.CityofAmes.org/TOU-Rates for details about peak hours, pricing, and tools to help determine if Time-of-Use rates are right for your home.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Mayor Pro Tem Anita Rollins, an At-Large member of the Ames City Council, to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting. Mayor Rollins joins the podcast while Mayor John Haila is away. The Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 10, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave. This agenda includes a number of items for Council consideration, and while this episode does not cover every topic, it highlights several discussions that may be of particular interest to residents and the community. This podcast is designed to help listeners better understand what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to consider, and how those discussions may impact Ames. In this episode, we discuss: Key highlights from the March 10 City Council agenda What selected items mean for residents and the community How to follow the meeting and stay engaged in local government Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Have a question or topic you would like covered? Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Participate in public comment in person or online Important note City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording. From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

Ever wondered what actually happens at an Ames City Council meeting? What all those agenda sections mean? Or how you can participate? In this special edition of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Specialist Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to walk through the structure of a typical City Council meeting and explain what residents can expect, whether attending in person or watching online. This episode breaks down: How meetings are structured and why How residents can participate in Public Forum Expectations for decorum and respectful engagement What each agenda section means, including: Call to Order Proclamations Consent Agenda Public Forum Department Presentations Hearings Ordinances Disposition of Communications to Council Report of Governing Body Council Comments Closed Session (when applicable) Adjournment While City Council meetings follow a formal process, that structure exists to ensure transparency, fairness, and thoughtful decision-making for the Ames community. If you have never attended a meeting before, this episode is a great place to start. 📺 Watch City Council meetings live or on demand at www.CityofAmes.org 📄 View agendas and materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Stay informed. Stay engaged. That is how local government works best.

What does community policing look like when there’s no siren, no emergency, and no flashing lights? In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart welcomes back Community Resource Officer Nate Rivera for a conversation about connection. From Coffee with Cops to Donuts in the Park and National Night Out, these outreach efforts are designed to create space for conversation, build relationships, and strengthen trust across Ames. Officer Rivera explains how these informal events allow officers and residents to connect in relaxed, everyday settings. No agenda. No pressure. Just real conversations. The discussion explores how proactive engagement builds long-term partnerships, helps break down barriers, and creates opportunities for feedback before problems arise. The episode also highlights the importance of early engagement with youth through school visits and mentorship, and how neighborhood events like National Night Out can bring communities together in meaningful ways. Whether you have attended one of these events or have simply wondered what community policing looks like beyond emergency calls, this episode offers a thoughtful look at presence, prevention, and partnership in action. Episode Highlights The purpose and impact of Coffee with Cops What happens at Donuts in the Park School outreach and youth engagement efforts How National Night Out strengthens neighborhoods Why proactive connection builds long-term trust Encouraging open, welcoming conversations with law enforcement     If you see a Coffee with Cops sign or a squad car at your neighborhood park, consider stopping by. As this conversation makes clear, trust often begins with something simple, a conversation, a handshake, or even a donut.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to review key discussions and actions from the Tuesday, Feb. 24 Ames City Council meeting. The conversation highlights several presentations, policy discussions, and community topics that help shape Council priorities and future decisions. Susan and Mayor Haila walk through what was discussed, why it matters, and what residents can expect next. In this episode, we discuss: A presentation from the Historic Preservation Commission outlining recent accomplishments and its future work plan. An overview of the proposed Residential Curbside Recycling Program, which generated strong interest from Council and will return for consideration on March 10. Approval of a memorandum of understanding with Story County related to improvements at the GW Carver Avenue and Cameron School Road intersection. A presentation on the new Neighborhood Connections Initiative, aimed at strengthening relationships, communication, and engagement within Ames neighborhoods. Approval of Ames Main Street’s annual “515 Day” celebration on May 15, a community event that continues to grow in popularity. Public comment regarding safety concerns along the Lincoln Way corridor. From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames. Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Get involved: Watch meetings live or on demand at www.CityofAmes.org View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we turn our attention to something every Ames household relies on but rarely thinks about until there’s a problem: water service. Host Bill Gebhart sits down with Jake Sisson, Water Meter Supervisor for the City of Ames, to talk about the City’s Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) program and the new Automatic Meter Infrastructure (AMI), what it means for residents, and how it’s modernizing the way we manage water. From behind-the-scenes utility operations to practical winter pipe protection tips, this episode blends smart infrastructure with everyday advice. Jake Sisson shares his journey into utility work and explains what it takes to oversee the installation, maintenance, and monitoring of water meters across Ames. The conversation centers on the City’s Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) and Automatic Meter Infrastructure (AMI) systems, what it is, how it works, and why it’s a major step forward for efficiency, accuracy, and customer service. They also tackle common questions about safety and data privacy, outline the citywide AMI rollout timeline, and explain how AMI technology helps detect leaks faster and reduce the need for in-home meter readings. With winter temperatures in full swing, Jake offers practical tips for preventing frozen pipes and explains what residents should do if they suspect a water issue. 🔎 What You’ll Learn in This Episode What AMR and AMI technology is and how it works Why AMI improves accuracy and efficiency in utility billing How the technology is safe and meets federal standards Where the City is in the AMI rollout process How AMI helps detect leaks early Practical steps to prevent frozen pipes during extreme cold When to call a plumber versus when to contact the City ❄️ Winter Reminder: Protect Your Pipes As temperatures drop, Jake recommends: Opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation Letting a small trickle of water run during extreme cold Insulating exposed pipes in garages or crawl spaces Knowing where your main water shutoff valve is located Taking these simple steps can prevent costly damage and service interruptions. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Ames in Focus so you never miss a conversation about the people and programs that keep our community thriving.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting. The Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 24, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave. Prior to the regular meeting, the Ames Conference Board will meet at 5 p.m. This agenda currently includes 42 items, and while we will not cover every one, this episode highlights several topics that may be of particular interest to residents and the community. This podcast is designed to help listeners better understand what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to consider, and how those discussions may impact Ames. In this episode, we discuss: Key highlights from the Feb. 24 City Council agenda What selected items mean for residents and the community How to follow the meeting and stay engaged in local government Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Have a question or topic you would like covered? Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Participate in public comment in person or online Important note: City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording. From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

America turns 250 in 2026, and the Ames Public Library is inviting the community to start reflecting now. In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill sits down with Megan Klein-Hewett and Anessa Olson from the Library’s Adult Services team to talk about how Ames is marking this milestone with thoughtful, engaging programming. From hands-on history to conversations about the First Amendment, this episode explores how the Library is creating space for learning, dialogue, and community connection. Whether you’re a history buff, a civic enthusiast, or just looking for something meaningful to do on a Friday morning, this is your invitation to get involved. 📜 Episode Highlights: America 250: How the Ames Public Library is approaching the 250th anniversary of the United States with reflection, balance, and community conversation. Library of Congress Transcribe-a-thon: Happening March 28 beginning at 10 a.m. with a presentation to kick things off, followed by a hands-on opportunity to transcribe historical documents. What’s a Transcribe-a-thon? Learn how volunteers help make original documents from the Library of Congress searchable and accessible—no experience required. Why It Matters: How transcribing connects participants directly to the voices and handwriting of the past. First Amendment Days: Coming up in April, this annual Ames tradition explores the freedoms of speech, press, religion, assembly, and petition through engaging community programming. The Role of the Library: Why public libraries are uniquely positioned to host civic dialogue and historical reflection. What’s Ahead: Additional programs and events throughout the year as part of the America 250 initiative. 🔗 Resources: ✅ Learn more at AmesPublicLibrary.org ✅ Explore upcoming events and First Amendment Days programming ✅ Follow the Ames Public Library on social media for updates

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Ames Mayor John Haila to discuss key actions and conversations from the Feb. 10 Ames City Council meeting. Together, they walk through several topics addressed by Council, explain what decisions were made, and share how those outcomes may affect the Ames community moving forward. In this episode, we discuss: The Budget Wrap Up and what it means as the City finalizes priorities for the coming year A change to Municipal Code and why the update was considered necessary City Council's adoption of Values, Goals, and Tasks Planned road construction on Stange Avenue Housing incentives aimed at supporting community growth and housing availability From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how Council decisions translate into real world impacts across Ames. Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public. Are there any City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil Participate in public comment in person or online From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

Thinking about a career in fire service? Recruitment for the Ames Fire Department is now open, and Deputy Chief Karen Tapper returns to Ames in Focus to break down what it really takes to join the team. From the application process to the recruit academy, this episode walks through every step with clarity and encouragement. Whether you're ready to apply or just curious about the path, this is the perfect place to start. 🧯 Episode Highlights: Recruitment Now Open: Applications accepted from February 1 through March 2. Who They're Looking For: Minimum qualifications, helpful certifications, and personal qualities like resilience and teamwork. Testing Process: Written exam, physical ability test, interviews, and background checks. Physical Test Details: What to expect and how to get ready. Recruit Academy: Insight into the training that prepares new firefighters for the field. Supportive Culture: Mentorship and guidance for every new recruit. Encouragement from the Top: Karen shares advice for anyone unsure about taking the leap. Next Steps: Where to apply and how to learn more. 🔗 Resources: ✅ Learn more at CityOfAmes.org/FireFighter ✅ Ready to apply? Visit CityOfAmes.org/Jobs