In Today’s All About Ames Issue…

📰 From Professor to Tradeswoman: My Journey into Welding

🏅 No. 20 Cyclones Ready to Face Central Michigan

⭐Traction Stories - Everts Flowers, Home & Gifts

🗓️ Calendar of Events

🏡 Real Estate Update

🐕 Dog of the Day

⚡️Spark for the Day

Brick City Grill, Former Iowa's Best Burger Winner, Closing This Saturday

Brick City Grill, the Ames sports bar known for winning "Iowa's Best Burger" in 2014, will permanently close its doors on Saturday, December 7th. The announcement was made on December 4th via a heartfelt Facebook post, expressing gratitude to loyal customers and staff for over a decade of support.

Owner Jason Mikkelsen cited financial challenges as the reason for the closure. Brick City Grill, which opened in 2013 and relocated to a larger space in recent years, was a staple in Ames, celebrated for its award-winning burger and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.

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Reiman Gardens' Winter Wonderscape Brings Holiday Magic to Ames

Reiman Gardens' Winter Wonderscape, one of Iowa's largest holiday light displays, is now open for the season. Starting yesterday, December 5th, this dazzling event runs every Thursday and Saturday throughout December, with an additional date on December 23rd. Visitors can enjoy nearly 200,000 lights in enchanting displays, and s’more roasting stations will be available on select evenings.

The events, running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., are free for Reiman Gardens members and Iowa State University students. Non-members can purchase tickets through the Reiman Gardens website.

From Professor to Tradeswoman: My Journey into Welding

While working as a full professor at Iowa State University, I pursued a long-time dream of learning a trade that engaged both my mind and hands. In 2018, I began night classes in welding at Des Moines Area Community College, eventually earning my diploma in 2022.

Now working at Howe’s Welding and Metal Fabrication in Ames, Iowa, I’ve fabricated and repaired items ranging from rumble strip skis to wheelchair ramps. My experience, alongside research for my forthcoming book, highlights the challenges tradeswomen face, including physical demands, scrutiny of competence, and navigating sexism.

Despite these hurdles, I’ve found inspiration in the resilience of tradeswomen before me, embracing the nonlinear journey of mastering skilled trades.

Jaylin Noel Leads Cyclones’ Big 12 Honors

Jaylin Noel was named Big 12 Co-Special Teams Player of the Year and earned All-Big 12 First Team honors as a kick and punt returner, averaging 15.3 yards per punt return this season.

Four Cyclones—Stevo Klotz (FB), Jayden Higgins (WR), Jontez Williams (DB), and Malik Verdon (DB)—secured spots on the All-Big 12 Second Team. In total, 15 Cyclones received recognition from the Big 12 coaches, showcasing the team’s standout performances this season.

Joash Ruto Named Big 12 Men's Newcomer of the Year

Iowa State freshman Joash Ruto earned Big 12 Men's Newcomer of the Year honors after a stellar cross-country season. The Nakuru, Kenya native secured All-America recognition with a 34th-place finish at the NCAA Championships, helping the Cyclones achieve their second runner-up finish in four years.

Ruto also earned All-Big 12 status with a 13th-place finish at the Big 12 Championship. He now transitions to the indoor track and field season, starting at the Sharon Colyear-Danville Season Opener in Boston.

No. 20 Cyclones Ready to Face Central Michigan

Fresh off a dominant 57-point victory over USC Upstate, the No. 20 Iowa State Cyclones host Central Michigan at noon Sunday in Hilton Coliseum. Undefeated at home, the Cyclones aim to maintain their momentum, focusing on rebounding and limiting turnovers.

Key players include Alisa Williams, averaging four rebounds per game, and Sydney Harris, hitting 52% from beyond the arc. Central Michigan, led by Jess Lawson and Madi Morson, enters the matchup at 3-5. Watch the game live on ESPN+.

Ames High Madrigal Dinner: A Timeless Tradition

Step back in time and enjoy an evening of music, merriment, and medieval charm at the Ames High Madrigal Dinner! This cherished tradition, spanning decades, returns on December 5, 6, and 7. Celebrate the incredible talent of Ames High students while savoring a magical experience.

Tickets are still available—contact Joe Strong at [email protected] to reserve your spot!

Ames School Board Announces Candidates for Vacant Seat

The Ames Community School District has announced six candidates applying to fill the vacant school board seat left by William “Scott” Dryer. Interviews will take place during the school board meeting on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., followed by a work session for deliberations. The selected candidate will serve until the 2025 regular election.

Find the list of candidates here.

Explore the stories that shape Ames—from local businesses to historic landmarks and everyday people making an impact. "Traction Stories" highlights what makes our town unique, celebrating its past and present.

Everts Flowers, Home & Gifts

Established in 1922, Everts Flowers, Home & Gifts is Ames' oldest flower shop, celebrated for over a century of award-winning quality and personal service. Locally owned by Brian and Gina Smith, Everts serves Ames, Iowa State University, and surrounding communities with a commitment to freshness and artistry.

With daily hand-selected shipments of fresh flowers, Everts creates designs that range from simple elegance to exotic flair. Their downtown Ames store also offers unique gifts, home decor for every season, Abdallah Chocolates, and Gund plush toys. For flowers, gifts, or decor, Everts remains the trusted choice to exceed expectations.

Want to feature your local business and reach thousands of Ames area residents in the next issue of All About Ames? Please send us an email here.

Friday, December 6th

Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market | ISU campus | 3:30 pm

WinterFest | Memorial Union | 4:00 pm

Yuletide 2024: Winterfest Open House | Farm House Museum | 5:00 pm

Saturday, December 7th

Holiday Home Tour | Throughout Ames | 10:00 am

TUBACHRISTMAS | Stephens Auditorium | 3:00 pm

Rocky Athas | Maintenance Shop | 8:00 pm

Beautiful Land Holiday Market Day 1 | Prairie Moon | 9:00 am

Sunday, December 8th

Great to Skate | Ames/ISU Ice Arena | 2:00 pm

ISU Holiday Concert | Stephens Auditorium | 3:00 pm

Beautiful Land Holiday Market Day 2 | Prairie Moon | 12:00 pm

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

1326 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010 Oak-Riverside. 5 Beds, 3 Baths. $330,000. Last Sold: December 3, 2024.

2200 Hamilton Dr #510, Ames, IA 50014. 1 Bed, 1 Bath. $50,000. Last Sold: December 3, 2024.

1201 Curtiss Ave, Ames, IA 50010. 3 Beds, 3 Baths. $259,900. Last Sold: December 3, 2024.

Ames, IA Available Properties For Sale

215 E 7th St Ames, IA 50010 (2 Beds, 1 Bath); $145,000

2426 Lakeside Dr Ames, IA 50010 (3 Beds, 3 Baths); $394,000

2518 Kellogg Ave Ames, IA 50010 (3 Beds, 3 Baths); $326,000

Meet Cooper, a lively 1-year-old Labrador Retriever who loves swimming, playing fetch, and exploring the outdoors. Cooper enjoys spending time with his family, meeting new friends, and snacking on his favorite treats. His loyal and friendly nature makes him a true best friend. Celebrate Cooper today!

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

Today’s Affirmation

“I celebrate my progress today. I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I move forward with gratitude and strength.”

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