Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of May.
Good morning, Iowa City.
The Iowa City Downtown District will celebrate 75 long-standing businesses during Legacy Business Month in May by offering new promotions at bars, restaurants, and shops.
Shoppers who visit participating venues will join a Legacy Passport drawing and earn bounce back discounts for qualifying purchases—steps that honor downtown’s historical roots.
Marcus Turner, age 45, was arrested on Wednesday near the 1900 block of Keokuk Street after he tried to pay for a store item with money that had meth on it—police later found him with nearly 50 grams of the drug in his possession.
Community Collaborations: Made in LA screens today from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at FilmScene (at the Chauncey) on 404 E College St in Iowa City.
The event shows a film about three Latina immigrants fighting for basic labor rights in Los Angeles sweatshops and is part of an ongoing series with community groups.
Bradford pear trees were popular for their spring blooms and red fall colors but are now causing problems in Iowa as they cross-pollinate, produce seeds (spread by birds) and break apart in storms.
Experts advise that cutting down seed-bearing trees is the best way to protect native plants.
Gerry Berry, a native of Des Moines who studied at Simpson College, served as a Marine during the Vietnam War and helped secure the Saigon evacuation when he ordered his aircraft to stay on the roof until the ambassador boarded—an action he credits with changing the war's final days.
State Auditor Rob Sand released a report on Tuesday stating that state agencies, including the Department of Management, withheld at least 12 public records from Representative Elinor Levin over the Education Savings Account program audit.
The report detailed a June 12 memo from DOM Director Kraig Paulsen that instructed agencies—without legal basis—to keep key documents, which delayed audit work and risked state finances.
Doctors urge people to get vaccinated for whooping cough as cases have doubled nationwide since last year — they advise anyone exposed to check with their doctor for prompt antibiotic treatment to help reduce symptoms and protect newborns.
Hawkeye fans met with Head Football Coach Kirk Ferentz and Head Women’s Basketball Coach Jan Jensen at the annual Polk County I-Club Spring Banquet in West Des Moines Wednesday night (the event offered fans a chance to interact with key team leaders).
Seussical the Musical Jr.
7 p.m. — The James Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a whimsical journey through beloved Dr. Seuss stories brought to life in musical form.
UI Day of Play
9 AM – 1 PM — Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center — Free entry — Experience adaptive recreation and inclusive activities for all ages.
41st Annual Red Shoe Run & Walk 5K
10 AM – 12 PM — Lower City Park — Fundraising event — Support a great cause while enjoying a fun run in the beautiful surroundings of Iowa City.
Chinese Bilingual Storytime
10:30-11:00 a.m. — Iowa City Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy songs, rhymes, and stories in both Chinese and English with fun crafts for children and caregivers.
Iowa City Mini Medical School 2025
5:15-7:30 p.m. — Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine — Free entry — Discover how collaborations in cancer research are paving the way for future clinical trials in Iowa.
BINGO Night at Coach's Corner Sports Pub
6-8 p.m. — Coach’s Corner — Play for a chance to win money off your tabs in a fun sports bar atmosphere.
Lucius Concert
12:30 AM — The Englert Theatre — Last-minute tickets available — Catch an unforgettable performance by Lucius in Iowa City.
Vintage Remix Pop-up Shop
9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. — Crowded Closet Thrift Shop — Free entry — Discover a curated collection of unique vintage clothing and accessories at this semi-annual event.
Riverdance Performance
2-5 p.m. — Hancher Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the Grammy Award-winning fusion of Irish dance and music that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Sunday Open Mic Comedy Night
9:00-10:30 p.m. — AlleyCat — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of comedy followed by all night karaoke fun.
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