Ames in Focus
Ames in Focus
Podcast Description
The City of Ames podcast that brings you closer to the people and programs that make our community thrive.
Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers various local themes such as community services, city management, and animal welfare, with episodes like 'Furry Friends and Forever Homes' discussing pet adoption and 'City Budget: It's A Numbers Game' explaining the budgeting process for residents.
City of Ames’ podcasts that bring you closer to the people, programs, and events that make Ames a great place to live. Just follow City of Ames’ Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts and you will get two great podcasts in a single feed!
Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org
In this special episode of Ames in Focus, we celebrate a cornerstone of our community calendar: the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. Now in its sixteenth year, the event brings together residents from across Ames and Story County for an evening of reflection, recognition, and inspiration. Host Bill Gebhart is joined by Vanessa Baker-Latimer, a driving force behind the event since its early days, to talk about what’s planned for 2026 and why this gathering continues to resonate.
What to Expect:
Cookie Reception (6:00–6:30 p.m.): Start the evening with cookies and live jazz from the Ames High School Jazz Band I.
Main Program (6:30 p.m.):
Humanitarian Awards presented by the Ames Human Relations Commission
Sixth Annual High School Essay Contest winners
Musical Performances, including the MLK Children’s Choir
Keynote Address by Quentin Hart, former Waterloo Mayor and inspiring civic leader
Vanessa shares the heart behind the celebration, the importance of community recognition, and how the event has grown into a beloved tradition that honors Dr. King’s legacy while highlighting local voices and action.
📺 Watch or Attend:
The event is free and open to all, with a live stream available on the YouTube.com/@CityofAmesTelevision.
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
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