⚡️Spark for the Day

Take time to rest and rejuvenate your spirit. Embrace the opportunity to reflect, recharge, and prepare for the week ahead.

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

💭TRIVIA CORNER

Question: What year was Ames ranked one of the “Top 100 Best Places to Live” by Livability?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter)

Retired Opera Singer Simon Estes to Narrate Ames Municipal Band Concert

Renowned bass-baritone Simon Estes, who retired from opera two years ago, will narrate the Ames Municipal Band’s concert on Thursday, June 20. The free, hour-long concert begins at 8 p.m. at Bandshell Park, preceded by festivities starting at 7 p.m. for City Council Night, where attendees can meet council members and enjoy free ice cream and water.

Historic Summer Event

This performance, directed by Michael Golemo, is the third in the band's 100th season. The City of Ames will unveil a sign honoring the band's century-long impact. Free, family-friendly concerts will continue every Thursday through July, encouraging attendees to bring blankets and lawn chairs.

Simon Estes’ Journey

Estes, a Centerville native, discovered opera during his time at the University of Iowa. Encouraged by his teacher, Charles Kellis, he earned a scholarship to Juilliard. His career has spanned global performances, including singing for six U.S. presidents and two Popes.

Ongoing Contributions

Besides performing, Estes has taught at Iowa State University and DMACC and engaged in philanthropy, raising scholarship funds and supporting initiatives like the United Nations Foundation’s Nothing But Nets campaign to combat malaria in Africa.

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Quebec Street and Circle Closure on June 18 for Utility Work

Starting Tuesday, June 18, Quebec Street and Quebec Circle will be closed to through traffic. Ames Trenching, working as a subcontractor for Manatt’s Inc., will begin utility removal and replacement on both roads. Once work on each utility is completed, any removed pavement will be temporarily filled with granular material, allowing the road to be reopened. This phase of utility work is anticipated to last one to two weeks.

The City of Ames has enlisted Manatt’s Inc. for the complete reconstruction of Quebec Street and Quebec Circle. The project includes the removal and replacement of existing pavement and certain sections of curb and gutter, adjustments to sanitary manholes, replacement of storm intakes and pipes, and the installation of a new fire hydrant in the Quebec Circle island. Additionally, sidewalk ramps at intersections will be updated to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

Independence Day Holiday Closures and Events

In observance of Independence Day, City Hall and most City departments and divisions, including Ames Public Library, Resource Recovery Plant, the Community Center, and Ames/ISU Ice Arena, will be closed on Thursday, July 4. Additionally, there will be no CyRide service on that day.

Fireworks sponsored by Discover Ames will take place on Wednesday, July 3, near Jack Trice Stadium, starting around 10 p.m. Note that lighting fireworks within Ames city limits is illegal and can result in a minimum fine of $250 for those caught.

The Fourth of July parade on Main Street, sponsored by Downtown Ames, will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 4.

Homewood Golf Course will be open on July 4, weather permitting. Tee time reservations can be made online at www.amesparkrec.org.

Furman Aquatic Center will also be open on July 4, weather permitting. For hours, visit the Furman Aquatic Center Facebook page or call the hotline at 515.239.5434. A weekly schedule is available at www.amesparkrec.org.

Will NASCAR Cup Series Return to Iowa in 2025?

NASCAR's First Visit to Iowa Speedway

NASCAR's debut Cup Series weekend at Iowa Speedway has drawn an enthusiastic crowd, raising the question of whether the series will return in 2025. The official schedule won't be released until the fall, but strong fan turnout and thrilling races could secure Iowa's spot. While fans have shown overwhelming support, the drivers await Sunday's race results to determine if the track conditions will meet expectations after a partial repave.

Driver Insights and Track Conditions

Drivers like Ryan Blaney and Chase Briscoe believe Iowa deserves another Cup race, citing the region's passionate motorsport fanbase. The track's recent repaving has altered some racing dynamics, but there's optimism about future races. Blaney noted the high excitement levels, and Briscoe emphasized Iowa's importance in motorsports.

Key Drivers to Watch

Kyle Larson will start from pole position after a fast qualifying lap. Other drivers to watch include Tyler Reddick, Denny Hamlin, and Chase Elliott. The race could be unpredictable due to tire issues and track conditions. Christopher Bell, despite a crash forcing him into a backup car, remains a strong contender.

The Larson Factor

Kyle Larson, known for his success in the Knoxville Nationals, is balancing his participation between Newton and Knoxville events. Despite a recent engine failure in Knoxville, Larson remains optimistic about his speed and performance, which could translate into a win at Iowa.

Kyle Busch's Challenges

Kyle Busch, seeking to end a winless streak, is another key figure. His recent races have been marred by incidents, but he aims for a strong finish to secure a playoff spot. Busch acknowledges the competitive nature and strategic challenges on the track.

The NASCAR Cup Series' first weekend at Iowa Speedway is a significant event with potential long-term implications. Drivers and fans alike hope for a successful race that could solidify Iowa's place on the 2025 schedule, highlighting the state's motorsport enthusiasm and the track's unique challenges.

Happening Today…

1. Lutheran Church of Hope Sunday Events

WORSHIP: Celebration Service - Sunday, June 16 | 9:30 am | Ames City Auditorium, City Hall Auditorium

Summer HopeKids - Sunday, June 16 | 9:30 am | Ames City Auditorium | City Hall Gymnasium

2. Vinyl Vagabonds

Local faves, the Vinyl Vagabonds, return to Roosevelt Summer Sundays! Featuring high energy R&B, blues, roots, and maybe a little zydeco and soulful vocals, the Vagabonds bring the party to the park! It's gonna be a funky good time--don't miss it!

Date and Time: Sun Jun 16 2024 at 07:00 pm to 08:30 pm (GMT-05:00)

Location: 911 9th St NW, Ames, IA, United States, Iowa 50010

3. 2024 NRL22 June Course of Fire - Public Event - P.R.O. Series 515

Date and Time: Sun Jun 16 2024 at 08:00 am to 12:00 pm (GMT-05:00)

Location: Ames Ikes, 2066 Stagecoach Rd, Ames, IA 50010-9302, United States, Ames, Iowa

click on the image for more information about the event

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

4116 Welbeck Dr Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $330,000; Date Sold: June 15, 2024

2810 Eisenhower Ave Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $368,500; Date Sold: June 14, 2024

1414 Kentucky Ave Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $300,000; Date Sold: June 14, 2024

2175 Ashmore Dr Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $540,000; Date Sold: June 14, 2024

221 16th St Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $246,135; Date Sold: June 13, 2024

2601 White Oak Dr Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $385,000; Date Sold: June 13, 2024

2200 Hamilton Dr #208 Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $200,000; Date Sold: June 13, 2024

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Permanent Christmas Lights LED

Christ Community Church Events

SUMMER FM 2024 - June 12, 19 & 26, 2024 | 6pm – 8pm (CDT) | Christ Community Church Ames 5501 George Washington Carver Ave. Ames, IA 50010

CAN-DO CORPS 2024 - June 18, 20, 25 & 27, 2024 | 10:30am–2pm (CDT) | Christ Community Church Ames, 5501 George Washington Carver Ave Ames, IA 50010

Upcoming Local Events

Looking ahead to events happening in Ames, IA in the coming week. Outdoor events may be subject to change due to weather.

June 16th (Sunday)

SUNDAY TOURS WITH UNIVERSITY MUSEUMS Brunnier Art Museum. 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm

AMES HISTORY MUSEUM EVENTS @ THE HOGGATT SCHOOL Hoggatt School. 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

JASON WHARLOW DUELING PIANOS Prairie Moon. 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

ROOSEVELT SUMMER SUNDAYS: VINYL VAGABONDS Roosevelt Park. 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

June 18th (Tuesday)

TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: COMEDIAN WILL STUCK Ames Public Library. 10:00 am

PICNIC IN THE GARDENS Reiman Gardens. 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

STROLLIN’ IN THE PARK Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor. 10:30 am - 11:30 am

PICNIC IN THE PARK McFarland Park. 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

GATHERING OF ARTISTS Octagon Center for the Arts. 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

KHOI PRESENTS THE WEARY RAMBLERS Stephens Auditorium. 7:00 pm

Introducing Cooper, a friendly 4-year-old Golden Retriever known for his love of water and fetching sticks. Cooper brightens everyone's day with his wagging tail and playful personality. He enjoys long runs in the park and snuggling up with his favorite blanket. Cooper truly is a joy to be around!

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

"Today, I affirm that I am refreshed and ready for the new week. I trust in God's strength and guidance to carry me through whatever challenges may come my way."

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Densmore Insurance Strategies, Inc. Bondurant, IA

Ames in History

Preview of The Roosevelt: From Classrooms to Condos

Highlight Your Local Business!

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All About Ames - Be Part of Our Story

The Answer to the Trivia Corner Question  👇👇👇

In 2022, Ames was recognized as one of the “Top 100 Best Places to Live” by Livability. This ranking highlights Ames' exceptional quality of life, which includes a robust and stable economy, a flourishing cultural environment, comprehensive medical care, top-quality schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. Livability's ranking reflects Ames' appeal to residents of all ages, with amenities and services typically found in much larger cities. This recognition underscores the city's commitment to providing a welcoming and dynamic community for its residents.