⚡️Spark for the Day

Remember, great things never come from comfort zones. Keep pushing forward, even when the path is tough. Your persistence will lead you to success.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9)

💭TRIVIA CORNER

Question: What year is Roosevelt Summer Sundays celebrating for its outdoor music series in 2024?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter)

Roosevelt Neighborhood Celebrates Centennial of Historic School Building

The Roosevelt neighborhood is marking a significant milestone as it celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Roosevelt Elementary School building. Originally a hub of education until its closure in 2005, the school has since been transformed into state-of-the-art condominiums, revitalizing the community spirit.

Sharon and Don Wirth, among the original condo owners, reminisce about their deep ties to the school, where their children attended and Sharon was active in the parent-teacher organization. They describe the Roosevelt building as more than just residences; it fosters a strong sense of community among its residents.

The school, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underwent extensive renovations by developer Dean Jensen. Today, it houses 20 unique condos, preserving historical features like stairways and chalkboard trays. Adjacent Roosevelt Park hosts the popular Roosevelt Summer Sundays concerts, embodying community engagement.

Originally built in 1924 during a period of rapid growth in Ames, Roosevelt Elementary was a vital center for the expanding community. Designed by local architects and expanded in 1969, it served generations until its closure due to declining enrollment.

As part of the centennial celebration, Roosevelt will host a special concert featuring Ducharme-Jones, highlighting its enduring legacy and community spirit. The event, open to the public, reflects Roosevelt's ongoing role in Ames' cultural landscape.

The Roosevelt building not only stands as a testament to its educational past but also continues to thrive as a vibrant community hub, connecting past and present residents through shared history and events.

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Marston Avenue will be closed starting this Monday

Marston Avenue is scheduled to be closed to through traffic starting Monday, June 17th. The closure, from 13th to 16th Street, is necessary for the replacement of storm and sanitary utilities by Jet Drain, subcontracting for Manatt’s Inc. This utility work is anticipated to take approximately three to four weeks.

The City of Ames has enlisted Manatt’s Inc. for the reconstruction project encompassing Curtiss, Marston, and Roosevelt Avenues. The initiative involves removing and replacing the existing roadway, upgrading storm intakes, and selectively replacing sewer and water main utilities along Curtiss Avenue. Additionally, sidewalk ramps at intersections will be modernized to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

Following the completion of pavement removal on Curtiss and Roosevelt Avenues, Marston Avenue will undergo full closure for similar reconstruction work.

June 15th (Saturday)

Juneteenth

• Time: All Day

• Location: Bandshell Park, Duff Ave & 6th St, 125 E 5th St, Ames, IA 50010

• Location 2: Ames City Auditorium, 520 6th St.

Ames Main Street Farmers' Market

Activity of the day: Iowa League of Heroes

• Day Sponsor: Metronet

• Time: 8:00AM - 12:30PM

• Click to view this week’s special events & vendors

Iowa State Football

Major Recruiting Weekend in Ames!

Ames Softball Team Achieves First-Ever Class 5A Top 10 Ranking

Ames Softball Team Setting New Standards in 2024

Ames softball coach Meghan Von Behren was emotional after the Class 5A No. 10 Little Cyclones lost both games in a doubleheader against Southeast Polk on Thursday. Despite the defeats, Von Behren's high hopes for her team were evident, as Ames has already made history by being ranked in the top 10 of Class 5A for the first time.

Ames, which fell to 13-8 after the losses, has had a strong start to the season. The team has managed to excel despite losing key players from last year, including Ellie Lynch and Ireland Buss. Juniors Sydney Smalley and Josie Theilen have stepped up as top pitchers, and freshman first baseman Mya Geffre is leading the offense with a .500 batting average.

Notable performances include a sweep of No. 3 Fort Dodge and a split with No. 1 Norwalk. The team has shown resilience and the potential to achieve something special this season, aiming for their first state tournament appearance.

Von Behren's passion and high expectations continue to motivate the team. With tough games ahead, the Little Cyclones are focused on consistency and aiming for a historic run to the state tournament.

Ballard Baseball Players Bond Over Health Scares

Brady Hillebrand and Jaxon Hermann, two Ballard baseball players, have formed a strong bond over their shared experiences with severe health issues.

Hillebrand's ordeal began on February 4, 2024, when he contracted Influenza B, which led to a staph infection, bacterial pneumonia, and a critical stay at the University of Iowa Children's Hospital. He lost significant weight but recovered through rigorous therapy and rejoined the varsity baseball team in May.

Hermann, diagnosed with a congenital heart defect in 2021, underwent complicated surgery and a lengthy recovery. He missed his sophomore and junior seasons but has returned as a senior pitcher, earning a scholarship to Iowa Lakes Community College.

Both players have been supported by their families, teammates, and the Ballard community. Their determination and resilience have inspired the team, with Hillebrand focusing on helping the team win and Hermann aiming to strengthen team bonds in his final high school season. Coach Mike Furlong praised their perseverance, highlighting their impact on and off the field.

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

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

717 7th St Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $325,000; Date Sold: June 13, 2024

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Permanent Christmas Lights LED

Sister Act

• Date: 13-15th June. 7:30 PM 

• Location: 120 Abraham Dr Ames, IA 50014, USA

Lutheran Church of Hope Events

Summer HopeKids - Sunday, June 16, 23 & 30 | 9:30 am | Ames City Auditorium | City Hall Gymnasium

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

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 15th (Saturday)

JUNETEENTH Bandshell Park. 12:30 pm - 5:00pm

AMES MAIN STREET FARMERS’ MARKET Downtown Ames. 8:00 am - 12:30 pm

PET WELLNESS EVENT Treats on a Leash. 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

IOWA ROSE SOCIETY’S ANNUAL ROSE SHOW Reiman Gardens. 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

LIVE @ THE RAILYARD WITH FRED LOVE & THE BAKERSFIELD BRAWL Cornbred BBQ. 7:00 pm

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

Meet Rosie, a sweet and lovable 5-year-old Cocker Spaniel. Rosie enjoys lounging in the sun, going for leisurely walks, and getting belly rubs from her family. Her gentle demeanor and affectionate nature make her the perfect cuddle buddy.

Give it up for Rosie!

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 persistent and determined. I face challenges with courage and never give up, knowing that my hard work will bring great rewards."

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Densmore Insurance Strategies, Inc. Bondurant, IA

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The Answer to the Trivia Corner Question  👇👇👇

Roosevelt Summer Sundays is celebrating its 21st season in 2024, marking over two decades of free outdoor concerts held at Roosevelt Park from June through August.