The Ames-ISU YWCA is bringing its weekly noon programs back to the Memorial Union. YWCA Executive Director Judy Dolphin said she hopes these programs give ISU students and staff an opportunity for informal conversation on subjects including empowering women and eliminating racism. This Wednesday’s program, the first of the semester, is a panel of women who will share their personal experiences with politics at the local level. “Because it is an election year and because people are aware of the political process, I want to show what goes on really,” Dolphin said. Sen. Johnie Hammond, Rep. Jane Griemann and lobbyist Judie Hoffman all have been invited to participate in this week’s panel discussion. Every Wednesday will feature a different topic. – Julie Janssen