Education & Transparency: Iowa auditor candidate Taylor Wettach says private school Education Savings Account budgets should be more transparent, arguing the public is funding tuition while families pay first—while she points to ongoing disputes over access to ESA data. Community & Belonging: The African American Museum of Iowa is set to open a new exhibit, “Right Where We Belong,” tracing Black resilience and community in Iowa from 1964 to 1999. Local Government & Quality of Life: Dubuque’s council wrapped goal-setting sessions, updating its 2041 vision and prioritizing public safety, stormwater, and expanded arts and culture. Volunteerism & Care: Iowa City Police and a religious communities group are teaming up for a Winter Clothing Drive, with extra language skills needed for volunteers. Sports & Culture: The Clinton Half Marathon returns Sept. 13 with a full weekend of events, including a downtown street fest and kids’ run. Arts & Learning: Luther College will announce the inaugural Hamlet Peterson Distinguished Professorship recipient in exercise science on Sept. 3. Food & Pop Culture: A Des Moines TikTok trend spotlights a “mystery meat” label at Hy-Vee, turning grocery-store confusion into viral entertainment.