Well, hello there

Welcome to the (soft-launch) edition of the Ames Voice Newsletter!

We are thrilled to connect with each of our 117 initial subscribers who have signed up to receive weekly news and community information.

This newsletter marks the beginning of an ongoing series of communications designed to keep you engaged and updated as we continue to publish on amesvoice.com and approach the full launch of our weekly newsletter.

Since our journey began, we've made significant strides, thanks to the dedicated efforts of our passionate volunteers and supporters.

Meet Our New Board Members

We are proud to introduce our newly elected Board Members, who will help guide the Ames Voice and its staff along its path to sustainability:

Their diverse experience and deep roots in Ames are invaluable to our mission, vision and growth as a community-centered outlet.

An Update on Funding

Our fundraising efforts are well underway: We have $71,900 in committed donations, with $66,900 already collected and in the bank. We are now only $35,000 away from our projected first fiscal year budget goal. This funding is crucial for supporting essential services, including establishing our digital news platform, hosting public forums and developing partnerships.

We are also excited to announce that First National Bank has become our first “Founding Voice” partner, thanks to a generous donation and a strong advertising commitment. This support from a respected "legacy" institution validates our vision and provides a solid start for our launch.

In addition to our current fundraising efforts, we're collaborating with Bob Woodward, director of journalism philanthropy and college student partnerships at Woodward Communications, Inc., to develop an ongoing philanthropy strategy.

He recently met with select volunteers, members of our Community Council and our Board of Directors to plan our fundraising efforts.

We Need Your Help to Expand Our Reach!

As a community-owned, nonprofit news organization, Ames Voice relies on the support of people like you to provide comprehensive, unbiased, and community-focused news coverage. Our journalism is and will remain paywall-free, with your support.

If you believe in the importance of local, fact-based journalism for a healthy, informed community, please help us spread the word about Ames Voice.

Share this newsletter with friends, family, and colleagues who might be interested in our mission. You can also encourage them to sign up for free at amesvoice.com and follow us on Facebook, X, Threads, and Instagram.

The Newsroom

Last, but not least, our newsroom is already at work!

We currently have two volunteer editors, Amber Mohmand and Anthony Capps, who are working with a dedicated group of volunteer writers, photographers, and copy editors. You can see their hard work at amesvoice.com.

And as a bit of a taste of what’s to come, here’s a look at some of the journalism we’ve been doing over the last few months!

 
Sincerely,

Anthony Capps, Amber Mohmand & Al Weber

Top Story

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Ames

by Kyle Werner | Published on July 3, 2025

The Fourth of July is a time to spend some time outside and some quality time with friends and family. From fireworks to parades and a concert, you’re sure to have a busy day full of festivities to celebrate America’s birthday right here in Ames.

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