peterfoster+FollowAmes moves forward: Goodbye waste-to-energyAmes is making a big shift—ending its outdated waste-to-energy system. Instead of burning trash (which uses mostly natural gas and barely powers the city), Ames will focus on expanding recycling and composting. This change is expected to cut costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and help residents keep more food waste out of landfills. With a new facility on the way and a partnership with Carroll County for landfilling, the spotlight is now on reducing what we throw away. How do you feel about this move? Will it change how you sort your trash or compost at home? #Business #Industry #Ames10Share
meadowsmary+FollowAmes shelter project needs community to move forwardConcrete is poured, windows and doors are ready, but Ames’ new homeless shelter sits unfinished—stalled by a $3.2 million debt. The Bridge Home’s ambitious plan to expand emergency housing has hit a wall, and now the nonprofit is asking for real community support to get things moving again. With the project’s future—and more beds for those in need—on the line, leaders say every bit of help counts, whether it’s a donation or volunteering. What do you think: Should the shelter scale back, or can Ames rally together to finish what’s started? #Safety #Ames #HomelessShelter00Share
Cameron Frazier+FollowAmes retiree brings music back to lifeBroken violins collecting dust are getting a second chance, thanks to Ames resident and retired ISU professor Paul Lasley. He’s been quietly fixing up old, neglected instruments and donating them to musicians who can’t afford their own. It’s a simple act, but it’s making a real difference for local music lovers. Plus, new research from ISU’s Doug Gentile shows that practicing kindness like this can actually boost your own well-being. What do you think—can small acts of generosity change a community? #Entertainment #Music #Ames00Share
Katherine Hunt+FollowAmes celebrates a true education championFifteen years of dedication on the Ames School Board—Carolyn Jons’ legacy is all about believing every student can achieve great things. Her leadership helped shape big changes, from new schools to district-wide learning models, always with a focus on supporting teachers and students. Even after leaving the board, she’s still making a difference, especially for young kids and families through Raising Readers. It’s inspiring to see how one person’s commitment can ripple through a whole community. What do you think makes a lasting impact in our schools—policies, people, or something else? #Education #Ames #EducationMatters00Share
derek12+FollowAmes celebrates local heroes and innovatorsBig news for Ames—our community just got a little brighter! The Ames Regional Economic Alliance has revealed its 2025 Annual Award winners, spotlighting neighbors, businesses, and projects making a real difference around town. These awards aren’t just about a trophy—they’re about recognizing the everyday commitment and creativity that shape our region. The winners will be honored at a special event on January 8 at the Iowa State Memorial Union. Who do you think deserves a shoutout for making Ames a better place? Let’s celebrate the folks who go above and beyond! #Business #Ames #CommunityPride00Share
Renee Hodges+FollowAmes couple’s ICU wedding brings community togetherWhen life threw a curveball, Tim and Stephanie Couser didn’t let it stop them from sharing their wedding day with Stephanie’s mom. With just hours’ notice, hospital staff at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames turned an ICU into a bridal suite, complete with a cake, flowers, and even a nurse-turned-photographer. The whole community rallied to make sure Marlys, Stephanie’s terminally ill mother, could be there for her daughter’s vows. This story is a powerful reminder of how love and kindness can shine brightest in life’s toughest moments. How has your community come together in unexpected ways? #Relationships #Ames #CommunityLove00Share
Linda Price+FollowAmes faces higher bills and new recycling changesAmes residents can expect some real changes to their monthly bills starting July 2026. City leaders are looking at raising property taxes and utility rates, with water, wastewater, and electric bills all set to go up a bit. Plus, the cost to drop off trash at the new Resource Recovery Center will jump, and a citywide curbside recycling program is finally on the way. While these increases help fund big projects like fire station upgrades and a new conference center, they’ll definitely be felt in our wallets. How do you feel about these changes? What would you prioritize in the city budget? #Business #Ames #CityBudget00Share
Donald Jones DDS+FollowHow running shapes leadership at Mary GreeleyAmber Deardorff, the new president and CEO at Mary Greeley Medical Center, credits her early morning runs for keeping her sharp and resilient—both in life and at work. She says powering through tough miles helps her tackle the toughest parts of her job, and that mindset has shaped her journey from bedside nurse to CEO. Amber’s story is a reminder of how personal habits can fuel professional growth. How do you reset after a tough day? Do you think leaders who’ve worked on the front lines bring something different to the table? Let’s hear your thoughts! #Health #BodyHealth #Ames00Share
Charles Coleman+FollowAmes lights up with life-size Candy LandAmes just got a whole lot sweeter—Reiman Gardens’ Winter Wonderscape now features a life-size Candy Land you can actually walk through! Imagine giant gumdrops, glowing tunnels, and over 150,000 sparkling lights setting the scene for your holiday stroll. Plus, the RG Express Train is back, winding past local landmark replicas made from natural materials. If you’re looking for festive fun, there’s also a holiday art sale, live music, and the last farmers market of the year. Who’s planning to check out these local holiday traditions? Let’s share tips and favorite moments! #News #Ames #WinterWonderscape00Share
