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Saturday, July 19th, 2025

United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties is hosting the Ready, Set, School event on August 15 and 16 at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, where families can receive school supplies, backpacks and free services such as eye exams, dental exams, vaccines and haircuts. Organizers are asking local volunteers—especially barbers and hairstylists—and donations to help serve 1,800 students.

Saturday, July 19th, 2025

Saj Grill, a new Mediterranean restaurant offering Middle Eastern options, opened in mid-April at 23 S. Dubuque St in Iowa City. The menu offers a build-your-own style for pitas, wraps and bowls—with entrees starting at about $10 and halal-certified options available.

Saturday, July 19th, 2025

After surviving a near-fatal crash in 2016 that broke his legs, ribs, and required a hip replacement, Johnny Nerem from Ankeny changed his life by finding work in Las Vegas and beginning a journey to visit every national park—he has now visited 52 parks and plans to complete the remaining ones, including a celebration at Yosemite, while setting further travel goals. Returning to Iowa to be closer to his family, he continues to pursue his dream of visiting all seven continents and every interstate.