Speakers

The Rotary Club of Ames is excited to welcome Lisa Markley, Story County Assistant Auditor and Budget Manager.

Navigating county finances can often feel like a maze, but Lisa is here to provide a clear roadmap. With over 30 years of experience in the Auditor’s Office, she is the primary architect of the Story County budget. She will walk us through how our tax dollars are allocated across essential services—from public safety and infrastructure to veteran affairs and conservation—and explain exactly how these figures impact your property tax bill.

Discover how artificial light is disrupting wildlife—year-round and right in your backyard. Join us to learn how light pollution affects everything from fireflies and pollinators to migrating birds and butterflies, wasting billions in energy and throwing off nature's rhythms. The good news? Unlike most environmental problems, this one has immediate solutions. You'll leave with practical changes you can make tonight—plus inspiring success stories proving these solutions really work. A brighter future starts with a darker night!

Make It OK is a program from Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative to reduce stigma in Iowa by starting conversations and increasing understanding of mental illness.