Curious what it’s like to ride shotgun in a patrol car or dust for fingerprints at a mock crime scene? In this episode, Community Resource Officer Nate Rivera returns to Ames in Focus to pull back the curtain on the Citizen Police Academy. This hands-on program gives Ames residents a rare peek inside the day-to-day world of local policing. Since launching in 1999, the Academy has served as a bridge between the Ames Police Department and the community. Participants don’t just sit and listen. They step into the action with crime scene simulations, controlled scenarios, and real-time ride-alongs with patrol officers. Whether you’re interested in law enforcement or simply want a new way to connect with your city, this eight-week Thursday night program is a standout experience. 🔍 Episode Highlights What the Citizen Police Academy offers and who it’s for Hands-on activities like mock investigations and patrol shifts The goals of transparency, education, and relationship building The program’s 25-year legacy in Ames Details on how and when to sign up for the next session   Who’s eligible: Anyone age 19 or older who lives or works in AmesWhen: Thursday evenings starting January 8, 2026Where to sign up:Visit the Ames Police Department at 515 Clark AvenueCall the non-emergency number at 515.239.5133Email Officer Nate Rivera at nathan.rivera@cityofames.org Cost: Free   Want to see your city from a whole new angle? Apply for the Citizen Police Academy and subscribe to Ames in Focus for more stories from around town.

In this episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames talks with Angie DeWaard, who first came to Ames to study literature at Iowa State. Though her career path has taken her into the world of IT, Angie’s love for stories and observation shines through in a different way, behind the lens of her camera. Angie shares some of her favorite spots around Ames to take photos and enjoy time with her family. She and Casandra reflect on the experience of raising kids in Ames, the little things that make the city special, and how a place can grow with you over time. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this episode, we welcome back Vanessa Baker-Latimer, Housing Coordinator and longtime organizer of the City’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. Vanessa shares what’s in store for the 2026 event, happening January 19 at the Ames City Auditorium. From powerful speakers and moving tributes to student voices and community connection, this celebration continues to honor Dr. King’s legacy in meaningful ways. What You’ll Hear: A preview of the MLK Day Celebration: what to expect (COOKIES) and how to attend Details on the Humanitarian Award and its importance to our community Information about the MLK Essay Contest for high school students, including deadlines and prizes How the event invites all Ames residents to reflect, connect, and act Event Details:🗓️ Monday, Jan. 19, 2026📍 Ames City Auditorium🍪 Cookies at 6 p.m. | 🎤 Program at 6:30 p.m.📺 Livestream available on Facebook and YouTube Essay Contest Info:Open to students in grades 9–12 in Ames and Story County.Prompt: “How has Dr. King, Jr.'s advocacy impacted your life, and how does it motivate or inspire you to continue his legacy?”Deadline: Sunday, Dec. 7 at 11:59 p.m.Prizes: $500 (1st), $300 (2nd), $200 (3rd)Winning essay will be read during the celebration. 🔗 Learn more and enter at: CityofAmes.org/MLKDay

In this episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames talks with Sarah Huffman, whose path to Ames included a lot of movement, from travel across the U.S. to couch surfing and time spent living abroad. Now rooted in Ames, Sarah shares how the city became more than just a stop along the way. As a volunteer and active community member, she finds Ames to be a place where connections happen naturally and often, a firm net of people who genuinely want to stay connected. She and Casandra talk about what it means to choose community over prestige, including the surprising moment Sarah turned down a job offer from Columbia University to stay in Ames. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this Veterans Day edition of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart talks with two City of Ames employees who have dedicated their lives to service in more ways than one. Jason Ziph, a Fire Inspector and Navy veteran, and Brad Campbell, a Police Officer and member of the Army National Guard, share how their time in the military has shaped their careers and continues to influence their work in public safety. They reflect on the values instilled through military service and how those same principles guide them in their roles today. It's a conversation about purpose, resilience, and what it means to serve both country and community. Highlights: Jason and Brad’s journeys into fire service and law enforcement Insights into their military experiences and what they learned How service in the armed forces influences their current roles Reflections on the meaning of Veterans Day Personal messages to fellow veterans   Visit CityofAmes.org and follow us on social media for more stories and updates from around Ames.

In this episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames sits down with Dylan Kline, a builder in more ways than one. After arriving in Ames for a construction job, Dylan found himself laying deeper foundations as a leader, a volunteer, and a father. Dylan shares how his role with the Ames Alliance allows him to help shape the city’s future, while his evenings are filled with family life, youth sports, and the everyday rhythm of home. He and Casandra talk about what makes Ames feel alive, from community partnerships to promising developments on the horizon. With a foot in both the practical and the visionary, Dylan offers a grounded yet hopeful view of what it means to belong to a growing, dynamic city. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we're joined by Curtis Spence, Assistant Director of Ames Electric Services, to explore the future of energy in Ames. At the heart of our conversation is the Ames Energy Center, a major initiative designed to modernize the city’s electric infrastructure, improve reliability, and support sustainability goals. Curtis shares insights into the planning process, the reasons behind retiring aging infrastructure, and why RICE (Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine) technology is key to the city’s next generation of power. He also discusses how Ames is thoughtfully integrating renewable energy, including wind and solar, and what steps are being taken to manage cost, reduce environmental impact, and engage the community throughout the process. Episode Highlights: Curtis’s background and role within Ames Electric Services Why the Ames Energy Center is a necessary and timely investment The planned retirement of Units 7 and 8 and what will replace them Benefits of RICE units: flexibility, efficiency, and readiness for renewable integration Project timeline from engineering in 2025 to operation in 2029 Long-term energy goals including 63 MW of wind and 26 MW of solar Balancing cost, reliability, and environmental responsibility How the City is addressing sound and infrastructure considerations To learn more about the Ames Energy Center and stay informed about upcoming projects, visit CityofAmes.org/Electric.

It’s a five-Thursday month, which means it’s time for a special Up Close conversation with your host Casandra and Producer Bill! This is the first time Casandra and Bill have been on the pod together since Casandra was out recovering from knee surgery, and there’s a lot to catch up on. They talk about what it was like for Bill to guest host in her absence and reflect on what it means to step in when someone else needs a hand. From covering a podcast episode to offering support during a tough season, this conversation is all about showing up. Casandra and Bill share how acts of service, big or small, can deepen trust and build stronger connections within our community. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt, and occasionally humorous look at how relationships grow through shared responsibility and simple acts of kindness. 🎤 Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart talks with Deputy Fire Chief Tom Hackett about the proposed relocation of Fire Station #2. The conversation comes just ahead of the public bond referendum on Tuesday, November 4. Tom shares how he got into public safety, explains the challenges at the current Campustown location, and outlines the benefits of moving to a new site on State Avenue. The episode breaks down what this project could mean for emergency response, long-term city planning, and the Ames community as a whole. Whether you have already made up your mind or are still considering your options, this episode offers important information about what the proposal involves and how it could shape the future of public safety in Ames. Episode Highlights: Reasons behind the proposed relocation of Fire Station #2 How the State Avenue site could improve emergency response times and coverage What the bond referendum means for taxpayers and how the funding would work The impact on firefighters, infrastructure, and city growth Resources for residents who want to learn more before voting Important Reminder:Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.Make sure your voice is heard by voting.To find your polling place, visit the Iowa Secretary of State’s website:sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx Learn More:To see project details and FAQs, visit: CityOfAmes.org/FireStation

In this special episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames reunites her last three guests: Zhengyuan Zhu, Jen Tipton, and Craig Kaufman, for a roundtable conversation about community, connection, and the threads that tie their stories together. Though they come from different backgrounds and walks of life, Zhengyuan, Jen, and Craig quickly find common ground in their shared experiences. From raising kids in Ames to supporting local theater, each of them brings a unique perspective on what it means to belong. They also reflect on their hopes for deeper, more meaningful connections between long-time residents and Iowa State University students, offering thoughtful insights on how to build bridges across generations and communities. It is a warm, engaging, and often surprising conversation about how we are all more connected than we think. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

As colder weather rolls in, utility bills often rise, and that can pose real challenges for many Ames residents. In this episode, we're joined once again by John Odenweller, Utility Accounts Supervisor for the City of Ames, to break down the resources available to help households stay warm without breaking the bank. John explains how the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) works, who qualifies, and what documentation is needed to apply. He also shares what residents should do if they’ve already received a disconnection notice and highlights other forms of support available through the City. 🔑 Highlights What LIHEAP is and how it provides one-time payments toward heating costs Eligibility guidelines and application windows (starting October 1 for elderly or disabled households, November 1 for all others) The application process, including which documents to prepare How LIHEAP funds are distributed and how long approval can take What to do in case of a utility crisis or disconnection notice Common pitfalls in the application process and how to avoid them Additional assistance from the City of Ames 💡 Key Takeaway If you're struggling to keep up with your heating bills this winter, do not wait to ask for help. Programs like LIHEAP are here to assist, and local support is available through both MICA and the City of Ames. 🔗 Resources LIHEAP Information & Application: micaonline.org – Energy Assistance

In this episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames talks with Craig Kaufman, a familiar face in Ames known for bringing people together through events, in parks, and around music. Craig shares what it was like to return to Ames after years on the East Coast and how his perspective on the city has deepened since coming back. He and Casandra talk about the joy and challenge of organizing community events, the richness of outdoor life in Ames, and the pulse of the local music scene. From hunting to hosting concerts, Craig reflects on what it means to stay engaged, stay creative, and stay rooted in a place you care about. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this heartwarming episode, Bill Gebhart welcomes Sergeant Amber Christian of the Ames Police Department along with a very special four-legged guest, Penny, the department’s new crisis response dog. While still in training, Penny is already bringing comfort, calm, and connection to officers and community members alike. Amber shares what inspired the program, how Penny is being trained, and what her day-to-day role will look like as she balances duties as both a crisis support dog and a family pet. Episode Highlights: Amber’s journey in law enforcement and community engagement Why the Ames Police Department introduced a crisis response dog Penny’s unique role supporting officers, victims, and public outreach Behind-the-scenes stories from Penny’s early days at home and at work An inside look at Penny’s training process and timeline The emotional impact dogs like Penny can have in moments of crisis How the Ames community can support Penny and follow her progress Learn More:Visit CityOfAmes.org/CrisisCanine for updates on Penny’s training, upcoming public appearances, and ways to support the program.

Host Casandra Eames sits down with Jen Tipton, a longtime Ames resident, for a heartfelt conversation about finding home in a place that is always changing. Jen shares what it is like to build a life and raise a family in a college town, and why she feels so connected to the Ames community. She and Casandra talk about the energy that Iowa State brings to the city, how to stay grounded amid change, and the quiet joy of appreciating where you are. This episode is a warm, personal reminder that home is not just where you live. It is where you choose to invest your time, your care, and your heart. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we’re turning up the heat in the best way possible. Deputy Chief Karen Tapper and Commander Brad Jerkins from the Ames Fire Department join Bill Gebhart for an inside look at Fire Prevention Week, the department’s annual Open House, and important updates about the future of Fire Station 2. Whether you're a longtime Ames resident or new to the area, this conversation is full of practical fire safety tips, family-friendly event details, and a look at how the City is planning for public safety as our community grows. 🔑 Episode Highlights: The history and importance of Fire Prevention Week What to expect at the Fire Department Open House on Saturday, October 11, including a sensory-friendly hour and interactive demos Essential fire safety tips every resident should know (yes, including when to replace your smoke detectors!) Why Ames is considering relocating Fire Station 2, and what’s at stake in the upcoming November 4 vote Details on the Fire Station 2 Spotlight Event on October 8, where residents can learn more and ask questions 📍 Featured Events: Open House: Saturday, October 11 at Fire Station 1 Fire Station 2 Spotlight: Wednesday, October 8 from 4–6 p.m. at 132 Welch Avenue Vote on Fire Station 2 Relocation: Tuesday, November 4 For more information, visit CityOfAmes.org/FireStation.

After a short break for knee surgery, host Casandra Eames returns to Up Close with a special guest: Dr. Zhengyuan Zhu, professor in the nation’s oldest statistics department at Iowa State University. In this intimate and engaging conversation, Dr. Zhu shares his journey from China to Ames, and what drew him to a career in statistics and life in a small Midwestern city. With his children growing up, Dr. Zhu now spends his weekends on the badminton court, a pastime that brings him joy and connection. He also reflects on how Ames has evolved during his time here, becoming increasingly diverse and vibrant. Casandra and Dr. Zhu talk about the rhythms of academic life, the surprising joys of a changing family dynamic, and the sense of community that keeps people rooted in Ames.   If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org.   The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Damion Pregitzer, Traffic Engineer for the City of Ames, to talk about a quiet revolution in local transportation: the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). From adaptive traffic signals to fiber-connected intersections, Ames is stepping into the future with technology designed to make your daily commute smoother, safer, and more sustainable. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: What ITS is and how it works in Ames How smart signals reduce congestion and improve travel times Why Duff Avenue was the starting point and what corridors are next The environmental benefits of smoother traffic flow The long-term vision for a connected and multi-modal Ames Whether you're driving, biking, or walking, this episode shows how Ames is using innovation to enhance everyday mobility and build a greener and more efficient city.   👉 Subscribe to Ames in Focus on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.💬 Enjoying the show? Leave us a review. It helps others discover the stories shaping Ames.   🔗 For more on transportation projects, visit CityofAmes.org and follow the City of Ames on social media.

For his final week filling in for Casandra Eames, guest host Bill Gebhart brings back all three recent guests—Bobby King, Donald Kom, and Annabella “Bella” Marquez—for a roundtable conversation that’s all about connection. Though they come from different backgrounds and walks of life, Bobby, Don, and Bella discover surprising overlaps in their stories—whether it’s a shared sense of purpose, love for community, or the different ways each has found (or rediscovered) home in Ames. They reflect on what drew them here, what keeps them rooted, and how even in a town that feels familiar, new relationships and stories are always waiting to be uncovered. It’s a warm, wide-ranging episode about place, people, and the threads that quietly tie us together.   The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.   Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames Fire Chief Rich Higgins to talk about the future of Fire Station 2. The discussion covers why relocation is needed, the benefits of the proposed State Avenue site, and the partnership with Iowa State University that helps make the project possible. Chief Higgins explains how the relocation will improve emergency response times, expand service coverage, and create a modern facility that meets the needs of a growing community. The conversation also highlights what will happen with the current Campustown station and outlines the steps residents can expect as the project moves forward. This project will appear as a bond referendum on the November 4 ballot. Residents are encouraged to learn more so they have the information they need when they go to the polls. For additional details about the Fire Station 2 relocation project, visit CityofAmes.org/FireStation. Be sure to subscribe to Ames in Focus wherever you get your podcasts. Leave us a review and share the episode with a friend to help spread the word.

Guest host Bill Gebhart continues his run on Up Close with a heartfelt and hopeful conversation with Annabella Marquez. Bella shares her family’s journey to Ames and what it’s been like to grow up in the place her parents chose to call home. Born and raised here, Bella reflects on how that deep connection has shaped her—especially through her work with the Ames Human Relations Commission. The episode also gives us a glimpse into Bella’s world beyond public service: her love of crafting, video games, and quality time with friends. And while Ames will always be home, Bella opens up about feeling ready for something new—and what it means to leave a place you love in search of growth. It’s a story about legacy, identity, and the quiet courage it takes to chase the next chapter.   The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.   Want to Be On Up Close?Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org to be featured on a future episode.