Good morning, Iowa City.

The University of Iowa is asking lawmakers for $4 million to slow tuition hikes and launch a rural physician pipeline for FY 2028.

The request splits $2 million for covering rising costs and $2 million for the program — a plan to keep tuition affordable and support local health care.

Des Moines University is accepting outside applications for its online Doctor of Medical Science program for physician assistants, and the University of Iowa will launch a similar program in January.

Courses run in eight-week sessions, and students may choose a 12-credit concentration (health sciences, public health, or healthcare administration).

The Iowa River Corridor Trail (located at the Highway 6 underpass) is closed until further notice due to flooding from recent rainfall.

Pedestrians and bicyclists should use alternate routes as city staff monitors the area for additional closures.

Hy-Vee pharmacies offer drive-through flu vaccines today from 4-6 p.m. and on Sept.

29, with regular and high-dose shots free with most insurance and Medicare plans (Fuel Saver coupon provided at 20 cents per gallon).

12-year-old Lily Lee, the honorary Kid Captain who first received the breakthrough drug for spinal muscular atrophy at Stead Family Children's Hospital, will cheer on the Hawkeyes against Michigan on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Her journey inspires community pride and shows local resilience.