Good morning, Iowa City.

U.S. Census Bureau estimates show that from April 1st, 2020 to July 1st, 2024, many Iowa cities lost residents while the overall population grew, with Des Moines losing nearly 1,000 people and river cities such as Davenport and Dubuque also shrinking.

Suburbs like Waukee, Ankeny and West Des Moines gained thousands as more people moved away from older cities—reflecting a shift toward suburban living.

The ICCSD school board met Tuesday, Sept.

23 to review safety measures after teacher Aspen Lohman was assaulted by a student and has been on leave since February — community members spoke up to demand greater transparency and stronger protections for staff and students. A district team is now analyzing incident data to guide further policy updates.

Campbell Wood and Payton Chapman were crowned Homecoming Royalty at the University of Iowa Homecoming Pep Rally and Coronation on Sept.

25 in downtown Iowa City — the event featured live performances and energetic cheers.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said that the U.S. Department of Education awarded more than $43 million to Iowa to support and expand public charter schools—money that builds on a previous $7 million grant and gives families more school choices.

Iowa state officials say gains in school performance support a pitch to use nearly $157 million in federal funds as block grants while the US Education Department reviews the request.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said the effort—focusing on teacher recruitment, reading, math, and closing gaps—will give schools more flexibility to spend money on student needs.

Iowa City will host a NoKings protest on Oct.

18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. along Iowa Avenue near the Pentacrest—this event is part of a national movement organized by Indivisible to demand government accountability.

Sprout Organics has expanded its recall of Sweet Potato Apple and Spinach baby food pouches sold in 28 states as tests show they may have too much lead.

Iowa consumers who bought these 3.5 oz pouches at Walgreens or online are advised to return them for a refund—no illnesses have been reported.

University of Iowa basketball teams will host the Hawkeye Hoops from Downtown presented by HyVee event on the court behind Burge Residence Hall at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 17—fans will get a first look at the teams before the season begins.

National Theatre Live: A Streetcar Named Desire

12:00 – 2:30 PM — FilmScene at The Chauncey — $10 for members, $15 for students/seniors, $20 public — Experience a spectacular live broadcast of Tennessee Williams’ timeless masterpiece featuring top-tier talent.

All Acts Open Mic Night

8 PM-12 AM — AlleyCat — Free entry — A welcoming platform for performers of all kinds followed by karaoke fun.

Monday Open Comedy Mic

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

Bingo Night at Hamburg Inn #2

7-9 p.m. — Hamburg Inn No. 2 — Free to play — Enjoy an evening of fun and games with free bingo at a local favorite spot.

Trivia at the Den

7-9 p.m. — St. Burch Tavern — Free entry — Test your knowledge and compete for a $50 gift card at this fun weekly trivia night.

Ballroom and Latin Social Dancing

7-10 p.m. — Old Brick — $6-$12 — Enjoy a night of salsa dancing with lessons included for all levels.

White Reaper Concert

7-10 p.m. — Gabe's — Ticket price varies — Enjoy an energetic night with White Reaper alongside Lip Critic & Worlds Worst at a local favorite venue.

Games in the Grove

1-3 p.m. — Plum Grove Historic Home — Free event — Experience historic games like stilts and hoop & stick perfect for ages 5 and up.

Monday Open Comedy Mic

8-11:30 p.m. — AlleyCat — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter with open mic comedy followed by karaoke fun.

Musical Bingo Night

7-9 p.m. — Vue Rooftop — Free entry — Enjoy a fun twist on Bingo with a night of music and prizes.