City of Ames’ Podcasts

Wellness can take many forms. Sometimes it is building healthy habits, and sometimes it is simply knowing that support is available when you need it most.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield sit down with Sergeant Amber Christian of the Ames Police Department and her four-legged partner, Crisis K9 Penny. Together, they explore the important connection between personal wellness, community wellness, and the unique role Penny plays in helping people through difficult moments.

Amber shares how she found her way into law enforcement, the challenges and stressors that come with police work, and the intentional steps she takes to care for her own mental and physical well-being. The conversation also offers an inside look at the Ames Police Department's Crisis K9 program and how Penny helps build trust, provide comfort, and support both officers and community members in times of need.

Episode Highlights
Amber’s Journey into Law Enforcement
Amber shares what inspired her career in policing and how serving the community has shaped her perspective on wellness.

Wellness in a High-Stress Profession
A conversation about the unique challenges of police work, the importance of self-care, and the strategies Amber uses to stay healthy and resilient.

Meet Crisis K9 Penny
Learn about Penny, her specialized role within the Ames Police Department, and why a Crisis K9 is different from the traditional police K9 many people picture.

The Power of Connection and Comfort
Amber and the hosts discuss how Penny helps create meaningful connections, reduce anxiety, and provide support during stressful or traumatic situations.

Supporting Community Wellness
The conversation explores how programs like the Crisis K9 initiative help strengthen relationships between first responders and the community they serve.

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
An honest discussion about the importance of talking openly about stress, seeking help when needed, and creating a culture where wellness is a priority for everyone.

The Human Side of Public Safety
A behind-the-scenes look at the people behind the badge and the shared goal of building a healthier, more connected community.

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast?
Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org.

Summer in Iowa means gardens are growing, sprinklers are running, and everyone is hoping for that picture-perfect green lawn. But when, how, and how often we water can have a bigger impact than many people realize.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Water and Pollution Control Director John Dunn to talk about outdoor water use and why it matters to the entire community. They discuss what happens behind the scenes when water demand spikes during the summer, simple ways residents can water more efficiently, and how a few small changes can help protect our shared water system.

Whether you're tending a backyard garden, trying to keep the grass alive through July, or just wondering why everyone keeps telling you to water before sunrise, this episode is full of practical tips to help you make the most of every drop.

In This Episode

Why outdoor water use matters during the summer

How peak demand affects the City's water system

The difference between watering more and watering smarter

Why early morning is the best time to water

Common sprinkler system problems that waste water

Tips for gardens, landscaping, and healthy soil

What can lead to lawn watering restrictions

How small conservation efforts make a community-wide difference

Helpful Resources
Learn more about water conservation, outdoor watering tips, and other City water services at www.CityofAmes.org.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, June 9 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation covers a wide range of topics that will help shape the future of the community. Susan and Mayor Haila discuss the recent joint workshop with the Ames Community School District and the importance of continued collaboration between the two organizations. They also recap Council's discussion regarding a fireworks display planned in celebration of the nation's 250th Independence Day, updates related to bond financing for a major City project, and several developments involving the Ames Municipal Airport.

The episode also takes a closer look at proposed changes to the City's Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance, including how these updates could provide additional housing options while maintaining neighborhood character.

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 page
• 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.

Ames is rolling out curbside recycling, and with it comes one of life's most persistent questions: "Does this belong in the recycling bin, or am I just being optimistic?"

In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Sustainability Coordinator Nolan Sagan to discuss the City's new curbside recycling program launching this summer. They cover when service begins, what residents can expect to receive, what materials belong in the blue cart, and why keeping contamination out of the recycling stream matters.

Plus, Nolan takes on the inaugural edition of "Trash or Recycling?" featuring everything from pizza boxes and pickle jars to bubble wrap and coffee cups.

Whether you're a longtime recycler or someone who's still negotiating with yogurt containers, this episode will help you recycle with confidence.

In This Episode

Why Ames is launching curbside recycling now

When recycling carts will be delivered

How the new program works

Collection schedules and billing information

What belongs in the blue cart

Common recycling mistakes to avoid

Why contamination increases costs and reduces efficiency

Answers to frequently asked resident questions

A rapid-fire "Trash or Recycling?" challenge

Helpful Resources
Learn more about Ames curbside recycling, including collection schedules, accepted materials, FAQs, and educational resources: CityofAmes.org/Recycling

"If you've ever stood in your kitchen holding an empty container and wondering, 'Is this recyclable, or am I just hoping really hard?' this episode is for you."

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 meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 9, beginning at 6 p.m. following the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) meeting in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

This episode highlights several agenda items that may be of interest to residents and the community. While it does not cover every topic, it offers a closer look at a few of the discussions Council will be considering and what they could mean for Ames. Think of it as your meeting preview, without having to read through hundreds of pages of agenda materials.

From Agenda to Action is designed to give listeners a clearer understanding of what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to make, and how those decisions may impact daily life in Ames.

In this episode, we discuss:

• A fireworks permit request from Discover Ames as planning continues for Independence Day celebrations
• An update on Schainker Plaza and the next steps for this downtown gathering space
• Proposed zoning amendments for the Convenience General Service zoning district
• Planned improvements at the Ames Municipal Airport and what they mean for future operations

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 eric.gebhart@CityofAmes.org.

Watch City Council meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube page.

View agendas and meeting materials at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil

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.