You may have heard earlier this semester that we are working on an entertainment Web site to cover Ames.

The name: Ames247.

The site is still in the development stages, but it should be operational next semester — hopefully in time for popular events such as Kaleidoquiz, the Freeman Concert and, of course, Veishea.

Discussion of what this new site will include has been buzzing, so I’ll let you in on the basics so far:

— Calendar: An extensive calendar will present everything happening in the local area. Listings must give the community all the information it wants — when, where and cost — as well as a strong description that should include available video and links.

— Multimedia: As a Web site, text stories are not the only thing the community wants. Stories will be told through video, slide shows and sound slides, too.

— Sections: Currently, other than the home page, the site will have six section pages: Arts, bars, food, movies, music and theater. Do you think TV and/or video games should be included? Are you interested in those topics or others? If there’s a community for them, they’ll be included.

— Community involvement: We want to begin to find the entertainment bloggers in the Ames community. We cannot generate all the content, nor do we want to. Everyone is a content generator. If you don’t blog, there will be other ways for you to get involved with the site, but you will know more about them next semester.

— Transparency: The site will include Ames247’s code of ethics, guidelines and contact information for everyone with the section. The community must be able hold the section and its people accountable for decisions.

As time progresses, we will give you progress reports on Ames247 and ask for your help in making it better before it goes live. There will be a Twitter and Facebook account live next semester — well before the site goes live.

You may be wondering where concepts, such as mobile updates, are at this point. Don’t worry; It’s not forgotten. Once we have the site, mobile will be next. We want you to be connected to Ames events everywhere you go.

If you have a blog let us know about it. If you have some input, tell us. Those who contribute ideas and concepts that are used will be publicly thanked and acknowledged.

Ames247 is to serve you — not us.