Good morning, Ames.

It has been five years since George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis, and Iowa civil rights specialist Anthony Pawnell said many feel the early passion for change has faded.

The Iowa-Nebraska NAACP—led by Betty Andrews—said that recent policy changes, including Gov. Reynolds signing a law to end citizen review boards, show that efforts toward fairness are still needed.

Today, central Iowa shoppers planning Memorial Day cookouts may pay more as key food prices rise; ground beef is up 10% from last year and a basket of 10 items from Fareway and Hy-Vee costs around $40.86 to $42.16 before tax—prices may change with location and date purchased.

Beef prices reached record highs last month with ground beef at $5.80 per pound and sirloin steaks at $12.33, putting pressure ahead of Memorial Day weekend.

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association said tariffs—interest rate hikes and drought reduced cattle supply and drove up prices.

SNAP users in Iowa will see new rules take effect on Jan.

1st, 2026—only foods exempt from sales tax like fruits, vegetables, bread, milk and meat can be purchased with SNAP benefits while candy and soda become taxable. Community groups and the Iowa Hunger Coalition have raised concerns that the change may add stigma at checkout and stress the need for clear guidance on which items are affected.

An unvaccinated adult in central Iowa tested positive for measles—the first case since 2019—and Iowa HHS reached out to identified contacts with no widespread exposure expected.

Iowa Senior Amateur Championship

Tournament — Jun 1-3 — Coldwater Golf Links — Registration required — Compete in a 54-hole stroke play event open to active Iowa Golf Association members.

2025 Art Walk

5-8 p.m. — Downtown Ames — Free entry — Explore diverse artworks and support local artists in a festive downtown atmosphere.

Iowa AEYC Member Meeting

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Labyrinth Coffee — Free entry — Learn about Iowa AEYC and engage with community membership benefits.

Veenker Junior Amateur Golf Tournament

Event Title — Time Range — Veenker Memorial Golf Course — Cost info not provided — Participate in a Birdie Point event at the iconic home course of the Iowa State Cyclones.

Architectural Photography Workshop at Iowa State University

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — College of Design, Iowa State University — Cost not mentioned — Enhance your photography skills while capturing ISU's stunning architecture with expert guidance.

Iowa Trail Run Series: A Midsummer Night's Run

7:30-10 p.m. — McFarland Park — Check event page for ticket pricing — Experience the thrill of running in the woods under the stars.

Ames Triathlon, Duathlon, Aquabike

8 AM – 12 PM — Reiman Gardens — Registration required — Compete in various aquatic and cycling events in a scenic garden setting.