🗣️ It’s Friday. Time for Only in Iowa, this week’s pet photo, Positively Iowa, and news you can use.

A shop that sells cannabis. (Erik Mclean/Unsplash)

Monday is 4/20, aka the high holy day for those who enjoy partaking. Though states around us have legalized, Iowa’s (Boomer) Republicans still think the drug leads to reefer madness.

But no matter: Give your money to schools and roads in neighboring states with this list of the best deals on everything from flower to vapes to gummies, drinks, and more.

It’s tough out there for Iowans, and many have to cut back. Sometimes, that includes the difficult decision of giving up beloved pets.

That’s why the owner of Paws at Play with Selena, a grooming salon for pets, decided to start a community pantry specifically for animal companions.

“This mission is deeply personal to me,” owner Selena Giancaterino wrote to Starting Line. “I believe no family should have to choose between caring for themselves and caring for their pet. Pets are family—and they deserve to stay together.”

So Giancaterino started Paws at Play Community Pet Pantry in North Liberty, which provides pet food, supplies, and support to those who need it. The business is also partnered with the Johnson County Humane Society.

“I truly believe it reflects the heart of Iowa—community, compassion, and taking care of one another,” she said.

(Pictured: Owner Selena Giancaterino (left) and Eddie Little (right) with clients. Courtesy of Selena Giancaterino.)

Data from the new Iowa Cancer Registry showed the state remains among the worst states in the nation for new cases of the disease.

Recreational weed isn’t legal in Iowa, so check out these dispensaries offering 4/20 deals in our border states, from Missouri to Illinois and Minnesota.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Amie Rivers. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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