Good morning, Iowa City.

A Coralville-based business called Poultry Patrol has developed small camera-equipped robots on wheels that navigate turkey barns so farmers can monitor their flocks remotely.

The robots cost about $15,000 each + provide extra bio-security and labor benefits, and the company plans to expand sales in Iowa + beyond soon.

The University of Iowa announced two internal candidates—Jon Houtman from the college of medicine and Jennifer Blackhurst from the business college—for the new dean of its graduate college.

They held open forums earlier and accepted feedback until April 14 while the new dean will begin on July 1.

The Iowa City Council deferred a rezoning request for a proposed 84—unit apartment complex on the north side after a petition showed residents' concerns require six of seven votes; the council will meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission in a work session next month before another vote.

Brad Sherman announced his candidacy for governor in February after Gov. Kim Reynolds said she will not seek reelection, and the 2026 General Election will be held on Nov 3, 2026.

Other potential candidates—including Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig, House Speaker Pat Grassley and Rep. Zach Wahls—are considering their options as the race takes shape.

Friday Group Class for Strings

4:30-5:15 p.m. — Preucil School of Music — Check for pricing — A group class focused on violin, viola, and cello to enhance your string skills.

Natural Dyed Eggs and Paper Baskets

2-4 p.m. — Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center — Registration not yet open — Explore natural dyeing techniques for eggs while crafting a paper basket.

Drawing Salon with Robert Caputo

2-3:30 p.m. — Stanley Museum of Art — Free entry — Explore your artistic side by drawing inspired by the museum's collection under expert guidance.

Yacht Club Comedy Mic

8-11:30 p.m. — AlleyCat — Free entry — Enjoy a night filled with laughter, karaoke, and community spirit at this weekly comedy mic.

Spanish Bilingual Storytime

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Iowa City Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful mix of stories and language at this engaging storytime.

Late Shift at The Grindhouse

10 p.m. — FilmScene at The Chauncey — Check the lineup of bizarre cinematic gems and indulge in a quirky cinematic experience featuring trailers and cult classics.

Moroccan Cooking Series at Hillel's Kitchen

10:00 – 11:30 PM — Market-Dubuque Building — Limited spots — Explore Moroccan cuisine and family history through cooking.

Book Babies Storytime

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Iowa City Public Library — Free entry — Engage infants through singing, reading, and rhyming for early language development.

Emo Nite

9-1 a.m. — Gabe's — $21 — Celebrate all things emo with a night of music and fun at Gabes.

Spring Sensory Spectacular

1-4 p.m. — Ashton House — Snacks available — Celebrate spring with games and activities designed for youth with disabilities and their families.