Originally broadcast 05/10/2021  Listen to the entire episode now!

In-depth information about local politics and Iowa government hosted by Laura Belin and Dennis Hart. Laura and Dennis take an in-depth look at the week’s legislative actions, government agencies, the governor, and other events that affect the Iowa government. This show  takes you behind the scenes, as lawmakers and elected officials act on matters that affect you and your family.

Originally broadcast 05/05/2021  Listen to the entire episode now!

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo we heard from Juan Rodregus, owner of the 5 de Mayo restaurant in Des Moines.  Following up on our ongoing story about how Iowa is responding to unaccompanied Immigrant children at the Mexican border, we heard from Darryl Morin, national president of Forward Latino, who just spoke with Governor Reynolds about what Iowa can do.

Turning to local history, Boone County Historical Society president Jessica Stanley and Angela Lange told us about the inspiration for renovating Kate Shelley Park  [NOTE: This link takes you to a video of the park with Miles Sitterle and Sam Davidson, the boys who inspired the project.] 

Ed Fallon came on the show to announce a film premiering this week, which features the Great Climate March of 2014 -- The Race to Save the World  trailer attached.

We ended with a Memorial Tribute to Donald Wanatee, Sr., Meskwaki Elder who died on May 20 at 88 and left a legacy of activism and inspiration.

Originally broadcast 05/04/2021  Listen to the entire episode now!

Mary Greeley Medical Center is sponsoring an event, asking the community to observe a moment of silence at 1:30 PM today to honor and remember those who have passed as a result of the viral pandemic.

Dr. Molly Lee, Associate Director of the Center for Food Security & Public Health at the Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine Provides the latest information and updates with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic. Discusses distribution efforts and the slow down regarding Vaccination acceptance: 88/99 are declining either a portion or all of their scheduled vaccine allocations.  Also discussed; how do we convince people to trust and accept the inoculation series? 

Pat Schlarbaum, Mike Meetz, and Mike Murphy discuss last Saturday’s event that occurred at  East River Valley Park.  Mike Murphy’s audio captures the ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication of the redesign of the low-head dam area and celebration of Ames being recognized as one of four River Cities in Iowa.  Audio recordings include: the speech from IDNR Director, Kayla Lyon, an interview with Rick Deitz, Skunk River Paddlers, and an interview with Nancy Franz, Story County Conservation Board.

Susan Qwiasda, City of Ames Public Relations Officer and Interim police Chief, Geoff Huff. 

Chief Huff, discusses the mental health initiatives proposed by Mayor, John Haila.  A public forum will be held in the Ames city auditorium, Thursday 20 May 6:30-8:30 PM.  Addressed will be mental health issues resulting from the pandemic and the programs and solutions available and opportunities for public involvement?

Offering Poems, Music, and a review of Tuesday programs; All Things Piano, Donna-Lana Kitchen, Science Bytes, and Heart2Heart along with a sneak peek of Thursday’s, You Name It.

Originally broadcast 04/30/2021  Listen to the entire episode now!

Today's Local Talk included week in the news from Ames Tribune by Dennis Hart.  Doug Harr, President of Iowa Audubon spoke about Birdathon and bird migration. More information can be found at bigbluestemaudubon.org. CARE students at Ames High, Soraya Cohen, David Lee, and Leslie Kim. Deb Schildroth, Assistant City Manager for Ames, discussed hiring of Sustainability Solutions Group to guide Ames in creating a Climate Action Plan to address mounting pressures of climate change.  More information can be found at cityofames.org.  An American Kestrel phenology rounded out the hour with co-host Mike Meetz and Pat Schlarbaum.