In this episode, we sit down with Officer Nate Rivera of the Ames Police Department to talk about National Night Out—an annual summer celebration focused on building community, enhancing public safety, and fostering police-resident partnerships. Nate shares what makes this event so impactful, how his unique role as Community Resource Officer shapes his approach, and why you won’t want to miss this year’s festivities on August 5 at Ames Middle School.

Episode Highlights:

Officer Nate’s background and journey into community policing

What National Night Out is and why it matters

Sneak peek at this year’s event: games, food, emergency vehicles, and more

The importance of trust-building between law enforcement and residents

Shoe and sock giveaway for students and on-site signups for school supplies

Resources & Links:

📅 National Night Out: Tuesday, August 5 | 5:30–8 p.m. | Ames Middle School

🔗 CityofAmes.org

📱 Follow the Ames Police Department on social media for updates

Connect With Us:

In this special episode of Up Close, past guests Kati Frahm, Noah Camp, and Erin Kimle return to the mic—this time together—for an inspiring conversation about connection, community, and the shared love they’ve found in Ames.

As they begin to uncover unexpected overlaps in their stories, the trio reflects on what it means to create meaningful relationships in a place you choose to call home. From building friendships to finding creative outlets and support systems, they discuss the ways they’ve each contributed to and been shaped by the Ames community.

They also have fun imagining what kinds of unique foods they’d love to see offered at Ames restaurants—adding a flavorful twist to their conversation about local identity and shared experiences.

It’s a warm and candid group conversation about roots, chosen communities, and the beauty of discovering common ground.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

🎤 Want to Be On Up Close?

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we dive into one of the city’s most beloved sustainability initiatives: Rummage RAMPage. Host Bill Gebhart welcomes back Nolan Sagan, the City of Ames’ Sustainability Coordinator, along with two long-time RAMPagers—Merry Rankin, Director of Sustainability at Iowa State University, and Stan Rabe, veteran volunteer extraordinaire.

Together, they unpack the heart and hustle behind this massive community reuse event that transforms move-out chaos into a celebration of second chances for furniture, housewares, and more.

The origins and goals of Rummage RAMPage

How the event works—from donating to shopping

What it’s like to volunteer (hint: rewarding and sometimes wild!)

Stats on waste diverted and funds raised for local nonprofits

Memorable finds

Tips for first-time donors, shoppers, and volunteers

Location: Ames Intermodal Facility, 129 Hayward Ave

Donation drop-off begins: Friday, July 25

Sale opens: Saturday, July 26 at 8 a.m.

Learn more at CityOfAmes.org/RummageRampage

In this heartfelt episode of Up Close, Casandra sits down with Erin Kimle, a lifelong storyteller whose journey begins and comes full circle in Ames, Iowa. From childhood memories to the decision to return, Erin shares the meaningful threads that connect her past and present.

Casandra and Erin reflect on their shared hometown and the unexpected ways their paths nearly crossed professionally. Together, they explore what it means to truly belong to a place—and how stories, both personal and communal, help shape that feeling.

Tune in for an intimate conversation about roots, reconnection, and the power of storytelling.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

🎤 Want to Be On Up Close?

In this episode of Ames in Focus, we’re taking a ride through the ins and outs of street maintenance with Matt Elbert, Streets Supervisor with Ames Public Works. From pothole patching to joint sealing, Matt shares what it takes to maintain over 500 lane-miles of City streets—and that’s just the beginning. Whether you’re curious about how roads are prioritized for repair or wondering why Iowa winters are so tough on pavement, this episode has you covered.

Episode Highlights:

Matt’s journey to becoming Streets Supervisor

How the City prioritizes street patching and repairs

Key differences between maintaining asphalt and concrete roads

The impact of weather, traffic, and time on pavement condition

Other responsibilities of the Streets division, from sidewalks to sweeping

How residents can assist with street maintenance and safety

One thing Matt wishes everyone understood about his team’s work

Resources & Links:

Learn more about street maintenance in Ames: CityofAmes.org

Report a street issue or maintenance concern: https://www.cityofames.org/Resident-Services/Ames-on-the-Go-Mobile-Reporting

Subscribe and Follow:

In this episode of Up Close, Casandra Eames sits down with Noah Camp, a lifelong Ames local who’s rediscovering his hometown with fresh eyes. Born in Ames and once eager to leave, Noah shares how he's grown to love being here—and why the city continues to surprise him. Together, they explore the charm of comedy shows, culinary experiments, and the complicated comfort of knowing everyone around you.

Noah brings a thoughtful perspective on what it means to stay, to change, and to look at something familiar in a new light. Whether it’s through laughter, food, or shared moments, this episode captures the essence of community—up close and personal.

Finding fun close to home—how Noah recently attended his first ever comedy show and left hooked, ready to explore more local entertainment.

Cooking for connection—what Noah’s been making in the kitchen and how cooking has become a new kind of joy.

Small-town closeness—Casandra and Noah talk about the double-edged sword of familiarity in a place where everyone knows your name (and probably your parents too).

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

Have a story to share? Reach out to Casandra Eames in the City Manager's Office or email [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Nancy Carroll, former Director of Ames Parks and Recreation, who now champions the campaign for a new Ames Animal Shelter. Nancy shares her personal passion for animal welfare, the current state of the fundraising efforts, and the creative ways the community is stepping up—including through custom t-shirts and a heartwarming book, Second Chances. Together, they discuss why a new shelter matters, how it will benefit both animals and residents, and how everyone in Ames can get involved.

Episode Highlights:

Nancy’s journey to animal advocacy

An update on fundraising progress and campaign goals

Behind the scenes of the campaign’s creative outreach: t-shirts and the Second Chances book

Upcoming events and opportunities to support the shelter

Why a new facility is vital for Ames’ animals and the broader community

Easy ways listeners can contribute to the cause

In this warm and candid episode, Casandra sits down with Kati Frahm to talk about what it really means to build community—and how sometimes, it means bringing your community with you. Kati shares stories of connection, creativity, and the unexpected ways relationships grow. Along the way, she turns the tables and asks Casandra some thoughtful questions of her own. And yes, an impromptu deep dive into N'SYNC fandom may have sparked the beginnings of a new podcast within a podcast.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with John Dunn, Director of Water and Pollution Control for the City of Ames, to dive into everything water-related—from why your utility rates change to how simple conservation steps can make a big impact. John brings decades of expertise in water management and a deep commitment to sustainability in municipal services. Whether you're curious about how Ames compares to other Iowa cities, or you're just looking for easy ways to reduce water use this summer, this conversation flows with valuable insights for every resident.

Episode Highlights:

John Dunn shares his path to working in water and environmental management.

The real reasons behind water and sewer rate adjustments.

How Ames’ rates compare to other communities.

Why conservation matters, even in a city with a solid water supply.

Practical outdoor water-saving tips for summer.

Everyday indoor habits to reduce water usage.

Resources available through the City of Ames, including tools, tips, and rebate programs.

Connect with Us:

Welcome to our end-of-the-month group conversation on Up Close! In this episode, Casandra brings together three previous guests—Jen Hibben, Leah Locke, and Chris Aukes—for a thoughtful and lively discussion about life, community, and what it means to call Ames home.

Each guest brings a unique perspective, and as their individual stories intertwine, new connections emerge. Join us as we reflect on shared values, surprising parallels, and the ways our neighbors help shape the fabric of this city.

Up Close is a podcast from the City of Ames.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the City of Ames or its employees.