Good morning, Iowa City.

Patricia Madsen honored her father, WWII veteran Red Madsen, in a moving tribute that recalled his early work on farms and railroads in Iowa and his brave service abroad.

Her words celebrate the *quiet strength* and kindness of a working-class hero loved across the community.

Storms brought 2 inches of rain to central Iowa during the week of May 17 and eased drought conditions, with the latest report showing 27% of the state in drought as of May 19—a 3% drop from May 14 while western areas remain dry.

The Iowa DNR warned paddlers that heavy rains on Sunday raised river risks with strainers and low-head dams.

Officials advised waiting a few days and wearing life jackets for safety on the water.

Lady Franklyn Improv

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Willow Creek Theatre Company — Ticket sales support local artists — Enjoy a night of laughs with Iowa City's professional improv team.

Good Habits, Gunk Lung, Early Girl & Tiny Stupid Concert

8-10:30 p.m. — Gabe's — $13.06 — Experience an electrifying night with local bands Good Habits, Gunk Lung, Early Girl, and Tiny Stupid.

Monday Night Gravel Ride

6:30-8:30 p.m. — World of Bikes — Free entry — Enjoy a no-drop 20-30 mile gravel ride with a beer finish at Big Grove Brewery.

Paige Lewis – Canon Reading

7-8 p.m. — Prairie Lights Books and Cafe — Free entry — Experience an evening of humor and brilliance as Paige Lewis reads from their debut novel, Canon.

West Coast Swing Foundations Class

6:15-9 p.m. — Public Space One — No experience required — Learn the basics of West Coast Swing including patterns and dance etiquette.

Tranquility Summer Series: A Meditation & Sound Refresh

7-8 p.m. — Harvest Preserve — $25 — Experience a soothing sound meditation under the night sky, guided by Tina McCoy as you welcome the joys of summer.

Friday Night Ride at the Bike Library

6-8 p.m. — Iowa City Bike Library — Free — Enjoy an inclusive no-drop ride with fellow cyclists while exploring the city.

Community Collaborations: Stories of Community

12:30-1:30 p.m. — FilmScene at The Chauncey — Free – $10 — Engage in inspiring cinematic stories and discussions driven by local community initiatives.

Herbs 101 Workshop

1-2 p.m. — Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center — Fee Not Listed — Discover the art of growing herbs from seed to harvest in this engaging workshop.

Monday Night Gravel Ride

6:30-8:30 p.m. — World of Bikes — Free entry — Enjoy a no-drop gravel ride with varied routes, ending at Big Grove Brewery.