Your Ames Voice

Thursday, January 22, 2026

January 22, 2026 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Happy Thursday!

On Tuesday, we introduced our calendar newsletter! Previously, there were event listings toward the end of Thursday newsletters. This new weekly is for events happening in the Ames vicinity during the coming week. However, it needs a name rather than "Calendar of Events" so if you have an idea for one, email us – [email protected].

We aim to now have more space in this newsletter to share our stories and expand our coverage in the coming months.

In the meantime, today's newsletter features a new indoor playground coming to Ames next month. We also have a story about the city’s Capital Improvements Plan, which includes plans for new water towers, street improvements and Resource Recovery and Recycling Campus.

We also have a recap of the Cyclone men’s basketball loss on Saturday.

Thank you for your continued support,


Co-Editors: Anthony Capps & Amber Mohmand
[email protected]

Top Story

Materials line the future Ames Play Yard ahead of construction. Once complete, the indoor playground will feature earthy tones and open next month. | Photo by Amber Mohmand

Ames Play Yard: A new indoor playground keeps kids moving

by Amber Mohmand | News Editor | Published on Jan. 21, 2026

A new indoor playground is set to open next month, giving families a much-needed space for kids to play.

Ames Play Yard, opening Feb. 13 at 2175 232nd Lane, is owned by Jenna Miller, a nurse and mother of five who saw a gap in local indoor activities for children.

“There’s not really anything to do indoors at all,” Miller said. “I mean, there’s like a bowling alley in the library, but beyond that, there isn’t a whole lot.”

The indoor playground is located just outside of Ames, right where Lincoln Way meets Highway 30.

It’s a challenge many parents face, especially during the winter months when children are often stuck inside. There are a few indoor parks outside of Ames, and that’s the problem — Miller said it’s important to have activities within the community as well as outside.

She decided to take matters into her own hands and create Ames Play Yard — a fun, indoor space for children to enjoy in Ames.

 

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City of Ames

City Council

Ames City Council reviews $431 million major projects plan

by Bill Monroe | Staff Reporter

The Ames City Council reviewed a $431 million capital budget when it met Tuesday at Ames City Hall.

 

More from City of Ames

Sports

Men’s Basketball

No. 2 Iowa State falls at Cincinnati

by Jared Larson | Staff Reporter

Milan Momcilovic scored a career-high 34 points, but the Cyclones couldn’t overcome early turnovers and a decisive 3-point shooting gap in a 79-70 loss to Cincinnati.

 

More from Sports

In Other News

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