HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - AIPCA Meeting Minutes from January 16, 2026Ames International Partner City Association
Meeting Minutes
01/15/2026
Attendees: Karla McCollum, Marina Kraeva, Laura Hansen, Nicki Mackey, Cindy Hicks,
Tim & Deb Lentsch, and Valerie Stallbaumer. Katrina Williams joined later.
Karla started the meeting at 5:30 p.m.
Minutes were approved. The persons making and seconding the motion to approve were
not recorded.
Approval of the Treasurer report was moved by Marina and seconded by Nicki. Motion
carried unanimously.
Koshu Committee: Katrina, having help from colleague Elena Brown, said that flyers for
the Koshu student trip were posted at the Middle School, the City of Ames webpage, and
the AIPCA Facebook page. The student applications can be sent to the AIPCA email
address. The applications can also be given directly to Mrs. Williams or Mrs. Brown in their
classrooms. Nicki offered to put up flyers at the St. Alice Catholic School. Cindy offered to
put up flyers at the Nevada School.
The plans are for up to 12 students and 3 chaperones to make the trip to Koshu. When
applications are received, times and days will be reserved for interviewing the students
who applied. Board members will conduct the interviews, most likely at the Ames Public
Library.
It was suggested that we request a scholarship from the Sisters States organization—IEDA
or the State Partnership group. Laura suggested that the students could design a
commemorative pin for the trip.
Wine Fest Committee: Cindy reported that Beth of Della Vita will help chair this committee.
Charlotte will help too. Cindy said that the first meeting is January 28, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Podujeva Committee: There is a June trip to Kosovo. Retired Major General Orr will host a
gathering at Camp Dodge as a preview. Kosovo Consulate General Drilon Zogaj will be
involved. Nine cities will be visited. About 30 Iowans are expected to attend. Each person
pays for their hotel stay and flight. Marina, Nicki, Stacy Dreyer, and Susan Kent are on the
committee.
The annual AIPCA newsletter needs to be put together. Cindy said that Calli may be able
to help. Everyone should write an article for the newsletter. Cindy said that she will write
about Kosovo.
Katrina is interested in helping with any Kosovo student delegations. Also, Katrina said that
the approximate cost for student travel to Koshu is $3,000. Karla and Laura suggested that
more planning could be done and the cost estimate should be posted on the City of Ames
website. Cindy suggested asking Eric Smidt to offer a student scholarship from the Ames
Chamber of Commerce.
Karla discussed the bylaws of AIPCA and wants us to look over that information. She
would like more discussion on how to solicit new members.
The time of meeting adjournment was not recorded.