The Ames Alliance continues to strengthen our connection with the businesses and community of Huxley. This morning, I met with several local business owners to talk about social media, Canva, and ways to “build their social media toolbox.”

Episode #014 of the AREA Podcast is live! Thanks to Emily Schmitt, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at Sukup Manufacturing, for joining me. The Sukup name is present in 90 countries, yet they continue to be synonymous with Iowa agriculture. amesalliance.com/podcast/

If you’re curious what the Live Work Play in Ames brand looks like 130 feet long, drive through Campustown on Lincolnway to check out our latest installation.

It was a Cyclone weekend from Jack Trice Stadium to Hilton Coliseum. It’s great to Live Work Play in Ames!

I recently visited American Athletic in Jefferson for an upcoming Traction magazine story. From crafting every NBA hoop under the Spalding name to building world-class gymnastics equipment used in the Olympics, this company is a true powerhouse with a global impact.

The third annual neighborhood Halloween portrait will be unveiled Friday morning. After journeys through Hogwarts and Oz, this year’s image transports you into a colorful new world.

It’s-a us, the 2025 Super Mario gang! From pipes to castles, we’re powered up and ready for Halloween fun where we’ll be chasing coins and dodging fireballs, all to save the princess. Happy Halloween!

Recently on location at Hawkeye Molding with Ryan Gruhn and Lana Leander for Traction magazine. The company evolved from making some of Amazon’s top-selling sleds and toboggans to producing plastic parts for industries from lighting and windows to agriculture. Story out soon.

Iowa State University is close to naming its 17th President after a thorough search process. I enjoyed hearing from the two finalists this week during their public forum in the Great Hall.

It was another great Communications Council meeting earlier this week with America's Cultivation Corridor. This quarter, we met the new Alliant Energy Digital Agriculture Innovation Lab at the ISU Research Park and continued collaborating on ways to share Iowa’s innovation story.

Thanks to Iowa State University President Dr. Wendy Wintersteen for recently joining me on the AREA Podcast. It was an honor to talk with the 16th president as she prepares to retire at the end of the year. Episode out soon!

The northern lights are looking good tonight.

I spent a little time with Curtis and Harold Pike this week as Harold Pike Construction is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Their project portfolio is like a tour through some of the area’s most recognizable places. Traction story out later this year.

The 2025 Downtown Ames Holiday Shopping Guide is now available! This is an incredibly designed piece for Downtown Ames with gift ideas for him, her, kids, Cyclone fans and more. It looks great in print as well. Check it out online! downtownames.org/community/holi…

Episode #015 of the AREA Podcast is live! Thanks to Wendy Wintersteen, President of Iowa State University, for joining me. It was an honor to talk with the 16th president as she approaches retirement. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! amesalliance.com/podcast/

TRACTION Issue 13 is officially off to the printers! Local companies that exemplify innovation with a global reach are some of the top stories. Throughout, I think you’ll see how great it is to live, work, and play across the AREA. Look for it in your mailboxes this December!

It was a joy to interview Wendy Wintersteen, President of Iowa State, on the AREA Podcast. She remains a tremendous ambassador for ISU and our broader community. Her example is a masterclass in leadership, and I encourage you to give this episode a listen. amesalliance.com/podcast/

The Cy-Hawk dual meet was high energy today at Hilton Coliseum. A great win for the Kevin Dresser led Iowa State Wrestling program.

Downtown Dolly is officially back for another season of holiday shenanigans! This campaign is one of my favorite things to follow each year. Follow Downtown Ames on Facebook and Instagram and take your best guess at where Dolly pops up next!

Zac Brown Band at The Sphere in Las Vegas did not disappoint! The place is a venue marvel and it was an unforgettable night!