Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of April.
Good morning, Iowa City.
Iowa City Police are asking for information on the December 30, 2024 shooting when shots were fired on the 600 block of South Dodge Street at 2:38 a.m. that killed 38-year-old Christine Blount—officials say anyone with video from 1:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. should contact Detective Ryan Wood.
The Iowa House passed a bill that requires high school students to pass a civics test by scoring 60% on a multiple choice exam before they can graduate, pending Gov. Reynolds' signature.
If approved, the bill takes effect in fall — 2026 and allows unlimited retakes while modifying the test for English language learners and students with disabilities.
Clear Creek Amana Community School District named Aaron Davidson as its new superintendent from a pool of three finalists after final interviews on April 15; his appointment is pending board approval and he will begin on July 1.
The district (serving Coralville, Tiffin, Oxford, Amana and North Liberty) made the change after Dr. Corey Seymour took a personal leave of absence and interim superintendent Dr. Denise Schares filled the role for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety signed a memorandum with ICE — creating a three-member task force to enforce immigration laws — to deputize special agents who will work under ICE supervision and check in regularly.
Critics say 287(g) agreements can hurt trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.
On Wednesday, the Johnson County Board of Supervisors began its process to form districts required by a new law signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds— the board is setting up a three-person redistricting commission to draft a precinct plan dividing the county into five equal-population districts and will vote on appointments next week. All five supervisor seats will be on the ballot in November 2026.
The Iowa City Council is asking developers for more details on two proposals for the lot at 21 S.
Linn St. that the city bought after a U.S. Bank drive-thru closed. Before its next meeting on May 6—one plan by Salida Partners and Iceberg Development wants a building with 12 floors to include an entertainment place and museum while Grand Rail Development proposes a building with six or eight floors for similar uses—the council plans to use more public input.
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.
JBA April Member Meeting
5-6 p.m. — Tippie College of Business — Registration Required — Engage with fellow members at the JBA's general meeting in room W364.
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