Chain to Main Local News - Thursday, July 9, 2026

The 54th Annual Iola Car Show and Swap Meet rolls into Iola today through the 11th, celebrating America’s 250th birthday with a patriotic Red, White and Blue theme. Organizers expect thousands of visitors to enjoy more than 2,300 show cars, 4,000 swap spaces, military vehicles, and special displays. Celebrity guests include Vice Grip Garage’s Derek Bieri, actor Sung Kang of Fast & Furious, and TV stars Patrick Duffy and Linda Purl. Gates open daily at 7 a.m. Organizers call it “America’s Car Show and Swap Meet.”  More details at iolaoldcarshow.com.   Registration is now open for Session 2 of Swim Lessons at the South Park Beach.  Classes run July 13 to the 30th.  Visit Waupaca Rec dot Com to see available classes and to register.   Federal disaster assistance is now available for residents and business owners impacted by recent storms and flooding in parts of Waupaca County. Applications can be submitted online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling FEMA at 800-621-3362. Applicants will need contact information, their Social Security number, household income, a list of damages and losses, and banking information for direct deposit. FEMA reminds residents that damaged property must be their primary residence and that assistance cannot duplicate insurance payments. For more information, visit DisasterAssistance.gov.