In Today’s All About Ames Issue…

📰 Ada Hayden Heritage Park Celebrates 20 Years of Community Enjoyment

🏅 Former Cyclones Sign Overseas Basketball Contracts

📰 Ames Community School District

🗓️ Calendar of Events

👮‍♂️ Ames Police Department

🏡 Real Estate Update

🐕 Dog of the Day

⚡️Spark for the Day

💭TRIVIA CORNER

How Much Do You Know About Ames?

Question: What role did Hoggatt School play for local religious groups before formal church buildings were constructed?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter)

Ada Hayden Heritage Park Celebrates 20 Years of Community Enjoyment

Ames residents gathered on Saturday to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Ada Hayden Heritage Park. The event, attended by around 50 people, featured cake and ice cream to mark the occasion. Former Ames Mayor Ted Tedesco, who was instrumental in the park's development, shared that the park, initially intended for nearby residents, was opened to the entire community to enjoy. Named after Ada Hayden, the first woman to earn a Ph.D. from Iowa State University, the park has become a beloved space for various activities, far exceeding initial expectations. The Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park continue to advocate for the park’s upkeep and beautification.

Musicians Wanted for Music Walk on September 19!

If you're a musician, don't miss the chance to showcase your talent in Downtown Ames! Sign up to be paired with a local business for an unforgettable evening of live music. Register now for Music Walk through the link: https://forms.gle/qd6EEUbM5HnBSGX7A

Is Social Media Hurting Your Child's Mental Health? What Parents Should Know

In Iowa and across the U.S., schools, including the Ames Community School District, are taking action to limit cellphone use in classrooms, aiming to improve students' mental health and learning environments. As more institutions implement these policies, there are steps that parents and caregivers can take to protect their children from the potential negative impacts of social media.

What’s the Right Age for Social Media? Experts recommend delaying social media access until children are around 14 or 15 years old. Dr. Stephen Mandler, a child psychiatrist, advises against early exposure due to the risks of encountering harmful content. The American Psychological Association supports this, noting that adolescent brains are particularly vulnerable to certain aspects of social media.

Using Parental Controls Once kids do have access to social media, parental controls are essential. These tools can help monitor and limit what children see online. Open communication is key; parents should set clear expectations and discuss the potential dangers of social media.

Balancing Social Media Use Encouraging a healthy balance between online and offline activities is important. Experts suggest setting rules for screen time, such as no phones at dinner or before bed. Parents should also lead by example, modeling good digital behavior to their children.

As more districts, including Ames, implement cellphone bans, these guidelines can help families navigate the digital landscape safely.

Former Cyclones Soares and Joens Sign Overseas Basketball Contracts

Former Iowa State women's basketball stars Stephanie Soares and Ashley Joens have signed professional contracts overseas. Soares will join AZS AJP Gorzow Wielkopolski in Poland, while Joens heads to Whai Basketball in New Zealand.

Soares, currently playing her first WNBA season with the Dallas Wings, made an immediate impact at ISU, averaging 14.4 points and 9.9 rebounds before an injury shortened her season. Joens, ISU's all-time leading scorer with 3,060 points, recently played in the WNBA with the Dallas Wings, Las Vegas Aces, and Phoenix Mercury. Both players bring impressive collegiate records as they continue their careers abroad.

Iowa State’s Rocco Becht Embracing New Tech and New Season

Iowa State’s standout quarterback, Rocco Becht, is gearing up for a new season with advanced technology and a year’s experience under his belt. The Big 12’s 2023 offensive freshman of the year is benefitting from in-helmet communication and tablets, enhancing his ability to receive real-time feedback and adjustments during games.

Assistant coach Jake Waters and new offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser are utilizing these tools to refine Becht’s game. Becht, who set freshman records last season, has focused on improving his footwork to increase efficiency. Now the clear No. 1 quarterback, he’s expected to lead with greater poise and command.

With a solid offseason and upgraded tech, Becht is poised for an impactful sophomore season.

Iowa State Cross Country Teams Ranked in USTFCCCA Preseason Polls

Iowa State's men's cross country team is ranked fifth, and the women's team is ranked 30th in the USTFCCCA preseason polls. The men, who finished fifth at the NCAA Championships last season, return their top five finishers. The women, who placed 20th last season, return their top finisher Maelle Porcher but lost key contributors to graduation.

In the Midwest regional poll, the ISU men are ranked second behind Oklahoma State, while the women are projected third. The Cyclones open their season on Friday with the Cyclone Preview at home.

New Inclusive Playground at Northwood Preschool Almost Ready for Students

The Ames Community School District is excited to announce that the new inclusive playground at Northwood Preschool is nearly complete and ready to welcome students. This vibrant and accessible play space has been thoughtfully designed to cater to all children, ensuring that every student can engage in fun and enriching outdoor activities together. The playground features sensory-rich elements and adaptive equipment, reflecting the district’s commitment to inclusivity and the well-being of every child. With plenty of shaded areas, this new environment is set to become a favorite spot for students to explore, play, and create lasting memories. Classes at Northwood begin on September 3, and the district can't wait to see the joy this playground will bring to the students.

Ames CSD Welcomes Charlie Knight

Welcome Charlie Knight, a Science Teacher at Ames High School. Knight became a teacher because he loved teaching in graduate school and wanted to make it his career. If he has an hour of free time, he would like to get outdoors, hike, explore, or play disc golf.

Ames CSD Welcomes Barbara Hackett

Barbara Hackett is a Strategist I Teacher at Ames Middle School. Hackett became a teacher because she likes learning new things and helping people. If she has an hour of free time, she would like to read novels or watch classic movies. Welcome to Ames.

2024-25 Iowa Alliance Conference Ticket Prices

The Iowa Alliance Conference has announced updated ticket prices for the upcoming academic year. Passes and family memberships are also available for purchase through Bound.

• Single Game Tickets: Purchase Here

• Passes/Family Memberships: Purchase Here

Ames Police Department - Arrests between 8/23/2024 06:05AM and 8/27/2024 06:05AM

Download Full Report Here

Ready to showcase your property to potential buyers? Share your upcoming open house details with us at [email protected] and we'll help spread the word in our newsletter!

Ames, IA Recently Sold Properties

1509 Wheeler Dr, Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $309,000; Date Sold: August 27, 2024

913 16th St, Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $227,500; Date Sold: August 23, 2024

833 Yuma Ave, Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $267,000; Date Sold: August 23, 2024

Ames, IA Available Properties For Sale

482 Fawncove Ln Ames, IA 50010 (4 Beds, 5 Baths); $1,600,000

325 Franklin Ave Ames, IA 50014Edwards (4 Beds, 1 Bath); $260,000

2751 Cleveland Dr Ames, IA 50010 (4 Beds, 3 Baths); $410,000

Introducing Finn, a spirited 2-year-old Dalmatian who loves running through open fields and playing with his favorite chew toys. Finn enjoys long walks, learning new tricks, and snuggling up with his family after a day of adventures. His playful energy and loving nature make him an extraordinary companion. Celebrate Finn today!

If you have a canine companion who deserves a moment in the spotlight, don't hesitate to reach out to us at allaboutames.com. We can't wait to hear from you!

Today’s Affirmation

“I focus on my strengths and use them to achieve success today. My talents guide me to meaningful wins.”

Sponsored Ad

Highlight Your Local Business!

Want to feature your local business and reach thousands of Ames area residents in the next issue of All About Ames? Apply here. Not a business owner, but have a favorite local business? Share it with us – send us an email at [email protected]

All About Ames - Be Part of Our Story

The Answer to the Trivia Corner Question 👇👇👇

Hoggatt School served as a meeting place for various religious groups, including a Union Sunday School, Methodist circuit riders, and the First Baptist Church of Ames.