Good morning, Ames.

US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright visited Ames National Laboratory on Thursday — touring the research center and discussing its work on nuclear fusion and new materials; he said he expects the lab’s funding to be shielded from federal cuts as investments in science continue.

Today marks the 90th anniversary of Social Security when President Franklin D.

Roosevelt signed the act during the Great Depression to aid seniors, survivors, and people with disabilities — around 687,000 Iowans benefit from the program. Experts warn that demographic shifts and a cut of 7,000 employees could lower benefits by about 20% by 2034 unless Congress acts, with some urging a lift of the tax cap and Congressman Nunn supporting tax-free measures.

Iowa State’s marching band is preparing to perform in Dublin during the football season opener against Kansas State as 100 top members practice their halftime routine.

The band, which returned early from summer break to rehearse, will leave for Dublin on Wednesday—while the game kicks off Saturday at 11 a.m. on ESPN.

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.

LINUX Shell Scripting Training Class

Sep 3-4 — Iowa State Online, Howe Hall, 2624 — Check event page for pricing — Enhance your software development skills with hands-on Linux shell scripting training.

Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State Cyclones Tailgate

12-4 p.m. — 1400 S 4th St, Ames, IA — BYOB encouraged — Celebrate Hawkeye football with tailgate games, music, and fun for all fans.

Dreaming Hildegard Exhibition Reception

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Octagon Center For the Arts — Free entry — Explore the solo exhibition by Christopher Hynes and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

Repair Café

10 AM – 2 PM — Ames Public Library — Free entry — Fix your beloved items with the help of dedicated volunteer repair coaches.

2025 Ames Silversmithing Classic

All day — Ames Golf & Country Club — $600 prize pool & $30 club rental — Enjoy a day of hickory golf at the 14th edition of this classic Iowa tournament.