Hello Ames! Here's our latest buzz. Let's get into it. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Loft Reserved and 1 more event.
Today's riddle: Why did the man leave his watch in the bank? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. What is driving the recent utility rate increases? (iowastatedaily.com) — Ames residents will see higher utility bills as water, sewer, and soon electric rates rise to pay for new treatment plants and power generation, plus a flat $7.75 monthly recycling fee already in place. City finance staff say small annual increases should avoid big future spikes, with typical families paying about $12.82 more per month while still keeping Ames Electric cheaper than many alternatives.
2. What Ames families should know ahead of the new school year (amestrib.com) — Ames families face several changes this school year, including temporary free breakfast at all elementary, middle, and high schools and a new girls' flag football team at Ames High. The article also details staggered start dates, new district leaders, facility upgrades, and expanded career and technical classes, with more information available in the district's Back-to-School Guide online.
3. Two Vintage pop-ups set for stops in Ames (iowastatedaily.com) — Vintage lovers in Ames can browse two big pop-up markets as students return to town, with Campus Flea at the ISU Memorial Union on Aug. 27 and Iowa Vintage Fest at North Grand Mall on Aug. 29. Both events are free, feature dozens of vendors, and spotlight 1980s, Y2K styles and vintage Cyclone gear, including budget-friendly $5–$10 racks.
4. Thousands of Children Across America Are Waiting for a Permanent, Safe Family. (issuewire.com) — Ames residents are invited to a From Hope to Home Gala at Reiman Gardens on Sept. 17, highlighting the urgent need for permanent families for children in foster care. Hosted by Iowans for Adoption, the evening will feature speakers, education, and opportunities for individuals and businesses to sponsor, donate, or otherwise support foster and adoptive families nationwide.
5. Flora Is Among ISU Football Captains For 2026 Season (westerniowatoday.com) — Iowa State football fans in Ames now know the six captains leading the Cyclones into the 2026 season under new head coach Jimmy Rogers. The group includes return man Aiden Flora, quarterback Jaylen Raynor, and several experienced transfers expected to anchor key positions on both sides of the ball.
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Ok Ames! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: So he could save time! (Thank you Lorraine S. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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