Good morning, Iowa City.

Christina Bohannan, a candidate for Iowa’s 1st Congressional District, met with cancer survivors + advocates at Sidekick Coffee & Books on Friday, Aug.

14 during a coffee chat hosted by the American Cancer Society. The event sparked community discussion on cancer care.

On Aug. 13, the Iowa City Downtown District announced James Davies as Director of Economic Vitality to lead downtown’s business growth and strategic investments (a role aligned with the district’s 2025–2031 Strategic Plan) and strengthen local economic resilience.

The Iowa Drought Monitor report shows 37% of the state was in drought or abnormal dryness as of 8 a.m. Aug.

11 (down from 45% last week), though severe drought increased in western areas. Updated maps come each Thursday.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reported 28 new cyclosporiasis cases, bringing total cases in 2026 to 300, with the highest counts in Dallas, Polk and Pottawattamie counties.

Officials advise washing produce and cooking fruits and vegetables to help prevent foodborne illness.

Data released Aug. 14 shows that median home sale prices in Johnson County reached $375,000 in May from $347,500 in April, a 7.9% increase.

Single-family homes averaged $380,000 while condominiums and townhomes jumped 31.7% to $355,500, reflecting broader growth in the local housing market.