In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Mayor John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, May 12 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation highlights several topics related to growth, planning, and community services. Susan and Mayor Haila break down what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions may impact residents across Ames.

We discuss:

• The newly appointed Ex-Officio representative from Iowa State University and the role this position plays in connecting the university and the community

From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames.

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Get involved:

Watch meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email [email protected]

From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with City Forester Gabriele Edwards to talk about one of the simplest ways residents can make a lasting impact: planting trees.

Spring is prime time for tree planting, but success starts long before the shovel hits the ground. Gabriele walks listeners through how to choose the right tree, pick the best location, and avoid common mistakes that can affect long term growth. From proper planting techniques to early care and maintenance, this episode offers practical guidance for anyone ready to put down roots.

Beyond aesthetics, trees play a vital role in the health of the community, providing shade, improving air quality, managing stormwater, and contributing to long term sustainability. As discussed in the episode, planting a tree is not just about today, it is an investment in the future.

Planting a tree is a small action with long term impact. Whether you are adding one to your yard or joining a community event, you are helping Ames grow today and for generations to come.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Mayor John Haila to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 12, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

This episode highlights several agenda items that may be of interest to residents and the community. While it does not cover every topic, it offers a closer look at a few of the discussions Council will be considering and what they could mean for Ames. Think of it as your meeting preview, minus the need to bring a chair.

From Agenda to Action is designed to give listeners a clearer understanding of what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to make, and how those decisions may impact daily life in Ames.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The introduction of a new Ex-Officio role and what it means for Council collaboration

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Have a question or topic you would like covered?

Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil

Important note

City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording.

From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

Burnout is more than a rough week or needing an extra cup of coffee to get through the day. In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., hosts Kacie Schumann and Bailey Dingfield take a closer look at what burnout really is, what causes it, and how to recognize it before it takes a bigger toll.

The bottom line: burnout is not a personal failure. It is often a response to prolonged stress, and there are ways to prevent it and recover from it.

Episode Highlights

What Is Burnout?

Common Causes of Burnout

Who Is Most Affected?

The Biology Behind Burnout

Warning Signs to Watch For

How Employers Can Help

Practical Ways to Prevent Burnout

What Research Says About Burnout

Resources

Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) Free 5 minute screening tool

https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast?

What makes a great park and how do you plan one that serves a growing community for decades to come?

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Keith Abraham, Director of Ames Parks and Recreation, to talk about the vision behind Ontario Community Park, a new park planned for the north side of Ames. From long-range planning and community input to balancing big ideas with practical realities, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how future recreation spaces take shape.

Whether you are a frequent park visitor or simply curious about how Ames continues to grow, this episode highlights the role parks play in building a vibrant, connected community.

To stay updated on Ontario Community Park and other projects, visit the City of Ames website for updates and opportunities to provide feedback.

Thanks for listening to Ames in Focus. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow and share it with others who care about the future of our community.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with John Haila to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, April 28 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation highlights important topics related to community growth and essential utility services. Susan and Mayor Haila walk through what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions impact residents across Ames.

In this episode, we discuss:

From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames.

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Get involved:

Watch meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode? Email [email protected]

From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

With spring in full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore everything Ames parks have to offer. In this episode, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Parks Superintendent Joshua Thompson from Ames Parks and Recreation to talk about the work behind maintaining Ames’ park system, seasonal preparations, and exciting updates for the community.

Joshua shares insights into his role, what it takes to keep parks running smoothly during the busiest months, and highlights one of Ames’ most popular destinations, Ada Hayden Heritage Park. The conversation also covers a newly completed trail, updated usage guidelines, and tips for safely sharing park spaces with others.

Whether you’re a frequent park-goer or just looking for a reason to get outside, this episode offers a helpful look at how to make the most of Ames’ outdoor spaces.

Learn more about parks, trails, and programs: www.AmesParkRec.org

Ames’ parks offer something for everyone, whether it’s a quiet walk, time on the water, or exploring a new trail this season.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Ames City Councilmember Anita Rollins, who is stepping in for Mayor John Haila, to preview key items scheduled for discussion at the upcoming Ames City Council meeting.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 28, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Ames City Hall Council Chambers, located at 515 Clark Ave.

This episode highlights several agenda items that may be of interest to residents and the community. While it does not cover every topic, it offers a closer look at a few of the discussions Council will be considering and what they could mean for Ames.

From Agenda to Action is designed to give listeners a clearer understanding of what is on the agenda, what decisions Council will be asked to make, and how those decisions may impact daily life in Ames.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Proclamations recognizing members of the community

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Have a question or topic you would like covered?

Are there agenda items or City Council topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode? Send us an email at www.CityofAmes.org/CityCouncil

Important note

City Council agendas may change up to 24 hours before the meeting time. This podcast reflects the agenda as it exists at the time of recording.

From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.

In this episode of Ames in Focus, host Bill Gebhart sits down with Mark Peebler, Resource Recovery Superintendent for the City of Ames, and Matt Bradner of Iowa Home Consulting to talk about Stash the Trash, a community-wide cleanup event that empowers residents to make a visible difference.

More than just picking up litter, Stash the Trash is about building community pride, strengthening partnerships, and supporting long-term sustainability efforts in Ames. With participation from individuals, families, and organizations, this annual event shows how simple actions can lead to meaningful impact.

Stash the Trash

Participants can select a park, green space, or neighborhood area to clean, then bring collected materials to designated drop-off sites.

Learn more and sign up: www.stashthetrash.com

Stash the Trash demonstrates how local action contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable community. By bringing together residents, businesses, and city resources, the event highlights the power of collaboration and reinforces the importance of responsible waste management.

In this episode of From Agenda to Action, Communications and Outreach Manager Susan Gwiasda sits down with Ames City Councilmember Anita Rollins, who is stepping in for Mayor John Haila, to recap key discussions and decisions from the Tuesday, April 14 Ames City Council meeting.

Their conversation highlights several important topics that impact infrastructure, long range planning, and utility services across the community. Susan and Councilmember Rollins break down what was discussed, why it matters, and how these decisions connect to the day to day lives of Ames residents.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Paving improvements planned for Freel Drive and what that means for the upcoming Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus

From Agenda to Action is designed to give residents a clearer understanding of how City Council discussions translate into real world impacts across Ames.

Regular Ames City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, and all meetings are open to the public.

Get involved:

Watch meetings live or on demand on the City’s YouTube

Have a topic you would like us to cover in a future episode?

From Agenda to Action is part of the City of Ames Podcasts network, offering residents a clear and approachable way to stay informed about local government and community decisions.