Good morning, Ames.

A study by Iowa State University shows that many rural counties in Iowa lack enough lawyers and suggests that paralegals working under licensed attorneys could help fill the gap—DMACC and the Iowa State Bar Association are exploring ways to give paralegals more responsibility while some lawmakers warn of potential risks.

Yesterday, the Iowa Board of Regents approved the fiscal year 2026 budgets for the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa and said they will meet with university officials to review details soon.

Two regents voted against the budgets—citing a lack of risk analysis and a need for more oversight before final decisions are made.

A state auditor investigation found that nearly $300,000 in research funds were misspent at the University of Iowa's Department of Neuroscience & Pharmacology.

Auditor Rob Sand said the probe from 2023 revealed that funds for diabetes and glaucoma research were not used properly and that the university accepted all recommendations.

Ames Open Tennis Tournament

9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. — North River Valley Park — $15 entry fee — Compete or enjoy a fun-filled day of tennis in a beautiful park setting.

79th Annual Conservation Conference

8 AM - 1 PM — Gateway Hotel & Conference Center — Registration required — Engage with conservation professionals and learn about sustainable practices.

Iowa State WelcomeFest

5:30-8:30 p.m. — ISU Memorial Union — Free entry — Celebrate the start of the semester with free swag and a chance to win a luxury vehicle.

South Dakota Coyotes vs. Iowa State Cyclones Football

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Jack Trice Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling college football as the Coyotes face off against the Cyclones.