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💭TRIVIA CORNER

Question: Who served as the mayor of Ames, Iowa, from 1870-1871, and what are some notable facts about him?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter)

Celebrate Juneteenth in Ames: A Day of Culture, History, and Community

On Saturday, June 15, the City of Ames will commemorate Juneteenth with a vibrant celebration honoring African American history, culture, and freedom. This event, titled "A Summer Celebration of African American Culture," is sponsored by the Ames Branch of the NAACP and the Ames Public Library, and will take place at Bandshell Park from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Activities for the Whole Family

The celebration promises a variety of engaging activities for attendees of all ages. Families can participate in arts and crafts, enjoy live entertainment, and partake in an educational scavenger hunt. Additionally, there will be free haircuts and informational booths on the history of Juneteenth and local organizations.

Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

The event will also feature numerous Black-owned businesses and those that prominently serve the African American community, providing an excellent opportunity to support local enterprises.

Evening Entertainment

The day's festivities will culminate with a special, free showing of The Lion King at 7 p.m. at the City Hall Auditorium. This classic film is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages, offering a fun and family-friendly end to the celebration.

A Message from NAACP President Vern Hawkins

Vern Hawkins, President of the Ames NAACP, encourages all residents to come out and enjoy the variety of vendors and activities. "All kinds of things will be going on for the whole family, from kids to retired adults," Hawkins said. "There’s no cost involved, just come on out and enjoy the culture with your neighbors and see what Ames has to offer."

The Historical Significance of Juneteenth

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. The history of Juneteenth dates back to June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, and announced the end of slavery, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Lincoln. Texas was the last Confederate state to enforce the proclamation, making Juneteenth a significant milestone in American history.

Cultural Significance

Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, marking the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983. According to Hawkins, Juneteenth holds a cultural significance comparable to Independence Day, representing a pivotal moment of freedom for African Americans.

"By recognizing Juneteenth, we acknowledge that African Americans have a long history in this country of not being free, right up until June 19, 1865," Hawkins explained. He also emphasized that the holiday serves as a time to reflect on the contributions of African Americans to science, technology, education, and society at large. "It’s a way to show we are a significant part of American culture and history," he added.

Join the Celebration

The Juneteenth celebration in Ames is an excellent opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of African Americans. We invite everyone to join us for a day of reflection, joy, and unity.

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Civil Rights Groups Challenge Iowa's 'Illegal Reentry' Law in Federal Court

Civil rights organizations are set to challenge Iowa's new immigration law in federal court today, seeking to prevent the law from taking effect on July 1. The American Immigration Council, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), and the ACLU of Iowa have filed a lawsuit on behalf of Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice, requesting an injunction against the legislation.

Details of the Law and Its Implications

Senate File 2340, the contested law, criminalizes "illegal reentry" and authorizes local authorities to arrest and deport undocumented immigrants who reenter the U.S. after being deported or denied entry. The law categorizes the offense as an aggravated misdemeanor, with the possibility of it escalating to a felony under certain conditions, such as if the individual is accused of committing another felony.

Opposition from Advocacy Groups

The ACLU of Iowa has argued that this state law conflicts with existing federal immigration laws and creates new crimes for individuals, including children, who reenter the country after deportation, even if they are now legally authorized to be in the U.S. The organization also warns that the law will exacerbate racial profiling and has noted concerns from law enforcement officials who have received no guidance on how to enforce the new statute or prosecute related cases.

"This Iowa law conflicts with existing federal law and creates new crimes for anyone in Iowa, including a child, who has reentered the country after being deported, even if that person is now authorized to be in the U.S.," the ACLU of Iowa stated. "It will also increase racial profiling and even law enforcement officials have spoken out against the law."

Federal and State Legal Actions

The lawsuit from civil rights groups follows a suit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) against Iowa on the same day, arguing the new law is unconstitutional. This Iowa legislation mirrors a similar Texas law, which has been blocked by the courts pending a decision on its constitutionality.

Government Response

Governor Kim Reynolds and Attorney General Brenna Bird, both Republicans, have expressed their intention to defend the law, which was passed by the Republican-led Iowa Legislature and signed into law in April. Governor Reynolds has criticized the lawsuits, positioning the law as necessary for the protection of Iowa's citizens.

"The DOJ and ACLU are suing Iowa for protecting our citizens, all while Joe Biden refuses to enforce immigration laws already on the books," Reynolds stated on social media. "If he won't stand for the rule of law, Iowa will!"

As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome will significantly impact how immigration laws are enforced in Iowa and potentially set a precedent for other states with similar legislation. The federal court's decision on the injunction will determine whether Senate File 2340 will be implemented as planned on July 1.

Welcome to Ames, @reagan.w22!!

Freshmen are moved in and ready for the adventure to begin

Happy Birthday, DeAndre Kane!

#Cyclones | #C5C

Freshman Max Martin Shines on Ames Baseball Team

Max Martin has quickly made a name for himself on the Ames High School baseball team, demonstrating both the rawness of a freshman and a high baseball IQ in their recent 8-2 non-conference victory over Boone.

A Key Play in the Fourth Inning

During the bottom of the fourth inning, Martin reached base with a single. Attempting to steal second, he found himself caught in a rundown after Boone pitcher Reid Carr's pickoff attempt. Despite the odds, Martin managed to evade the tag and slide safely into second base, contributing to a pivotal four-run inning for Ames.

“I didn’t expect them to throw to first,” Martin recalled. “I just ran for my life at that point.”

Ames coach Nick Steenhagen praised Martin's resilience, noting, “He got caught a little bit, but he worked it out and kept grinding.”

Rapid Ascent to Varsity

Having played baseball since childhood, Martin did not anticipate being promoted to varsity as a freshman, especially on a team that reached the Class 4A state championship game last year. However, Ames struggled early in the season, prompting Steenhagen to adjust the lineup.

“It’s one of those things where we just kind of figured it out,” Steenhagen said. “He actually started on JV. We weren’t sure where he was going to fit.”

Leading the Team in Batting

Martin has quickly become a standout at the plate, leading Ames with a .400 batting average in 45 at-bats. He has three doubles, eight runs, and shares the team lead in RBIs with 14 alongside Logan Bjerke. In the game against Boone, Martin went 2-for-4, including a crucial two-run single in the third inning that put Ames ahead 3-2.

“He’s been raking it,” said Ames' all-state pitcher and Iowa signee Carter Geffre. “He’s, statistically, the best hitter on our team.”

Overcoming Nerves and Gaining Confidence

Despite initial nerves entering his first varsity season, Martin has shown fearlessness at the plate.

“I’m just trying to put the ball in play,” Martin said. “Get the boys rolling.”

His strategy against top-level varsity pitchers has been straightforward: “Look for the fastball. Just get us around the bases.”

Steenhagen believes Martin's inexperience has been beneficial on offense. “I don’t think he has got a care in the world right now. I think he’s going out and having fun doing what he does. He seems to not let the moment get too big.”

Defensive Development

Martin has taken over at third base following Charles Tucker's move to shortstop. While he has shown promise, his inexperience has led to some defensive errors. Martin has six errors so far this season, but Tucker, who has been mentoring him, believes Martin is making progress.

“If he makes an error I get on his butt at first, but then try to help him through it,” Tucker said. “Kind of showing him the way.”

Team Performance and Future Goals

The victory over Boone marked Ames' seventh consecutive win, bringing their season record to 9-9. If Martin continues to excel both offensively and defensively, Ames has a strong chance to improve their performance further.

Reflecting on the team's goals, Martin said, “Keep hitting the ball, put it in play and move my boys around. My goal is to make it to the state championship and win it this year.”

With his impressive start, Max Martin is poised to play a crucial role in Ames' pursuit of another successful season.

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Ames, IA Recently Sold Properties

3129 Roxboro Dr Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $459,900; Date Sold: June 7, 2024

4202 Welbeck Dr Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $368,000; Date Sold: June 7, 2024

3418 Jewel Dr Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $350,000; Date Sold: June 7, 2024

914 Yuma Ave Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $250,000; Date Sold: June 7, 2024

4824 Waller St Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $335,000; Date Sold: June 7, 2024

3022 Cottontail Ln Ames, IA 50014. Sold Price: $425,000; Date Sold: June 7, 2024

4142 Eisenhower Ln #1 Ames, IA 50010. Sold Price: $195,000; Date Sold: June 6, 2024

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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 11th (Tuesday)

TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: MAGICIAN MIKAYLA OZ Ames Public Library. 10:00 am

TUNES IN THE TREES: CARTER GUSE Iowa Arboretum.  6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

June 12th (Wednesday)

GARDEN PLAYHOUSE GUIDED TOUR Reiman Gardens. 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

KIDS’ CRAFTS AT THE WORKSPACE Memorial Union Workspace. 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

NORTH GRAND AFTER SUNDOWN North Grand Mall. 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Meet Candy, Candy is a spirited and intelligent 1 year old Border Collie known for her agility and enthusiasm. She loves playing frisbee and excels in agility training. Candy is always eager to learn new tricks and enjoys mental stimulation through puzzle toys.

Give it up for Candy!

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

"My inner light shines outward, illuminating the world around me. With kindness and compassion, I make a difference, one step at a time."

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The Answer to the Trivia Corner Question  👇👇👇

William West served as the mayor of Ames, Iowa, from 1870-1871. He was the proprietor of the West Hotel. Before moving to Iowa, West was a legislator in Ohio. According to early Ames pioneer C.E. Taylor, West was childhood friends with future President General Ulysses S. Grant. Besides his mayoral role, he was a member of the City Council, the Board of Education, and the Methodist Episcopal Church. However, he resigned as mayor within the first three months of his one-year term, which was subsequently filled by W. D. Lucas.