Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of October.
Good morning, Iowa City.
Residents and local leaders gathered today at Modern Manor Mobile Home Park to protest a planned rent increase set for December and demand a two-year moratorium, clean water, and better park safety — advocates say the current rent model is forcing struggling families into hard choices. Havenpark Communities defended its investments in park maintenance and upgrades, but opponents argue that further improvements are still needed.
Iowa History Journal marks Johnny Carson's 100th birthday with a special issue that includes his career retrospective plus stories on the 1931 Cow War and UNI football's 'Mud Bowl.' Owner Michael Swanger and guest writers share local history and honor Carson's Midwest roots as back issues remain on sale for a limited time.
Today, the Stanley Museum of Art hosts School’s Out at the Stanley, a drop-in art workshop where school-aged children create stamped landscapes using pre-cut stamps and provided materials.
The program is led by Agnes Harry Mills and Melanie Landsittel — it runs from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and is offered on a day when Iowa City Community Schools District is closed.
Gov. Kim Reynolds announced on Oct.
1 that Mark Campbell, a small business owner and former county supervisor, will lead the Iowa Department of Administrative Services starting Oct. 6 after the former director resigned to run for governor. His appointment is subject to Senate approval—Reynolds said Campbell’s leadership will help improve state services.
Seventeen historians, archivists, professors, authors, and donors have sued the State Historical Society for closing its Iowa City research facility at the Centennial Building, 402 Iowa Ave. The suit seeks an immediate block to stop moving and removing collections before the planned closure on June 30—citing a violation of Iowa Code and lack of public input.
A patient at UI Steady Family Children's Hospital said the Hawkeye Wave gives her hope during tough treatments and makes her feel less alone, while her mother said it shows that the community stands together.
Fans will join the wave when Iowa football plays Penn State on Oct. 18 at Kinnick Stadium — a clear sign of unity and strength.
The Iowa City Fire Department expanded its partnership with Johnson County Ambulance Service by stationing an Advanced Life Support ambulance crew at Station 2, 301 Emerald Street from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day—reducing response times on the west side while a 24/7 crew at Station 4 continues to serve key routes.
McKenna Woliczko committed to the Hawkeyes on Instagram yesterday—she is ranked No. 6 in SportsCenter NEXT 100 and coach Jan Jensen’s top recruit since Caitlin Clark from Archbishop Mitty High School in California.
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.
Iowa City Puzzle Palooza 2025
5:30-10 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Registration fee for teams — Compete for puzzle glory while enjoying food, drinks, and raffles.
Refocus Film Festival
6:00 PM - 9:30 PM — FilmScene at The Chauncey — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the art of adaptation with films, performances, and engaging dialogues.
2025 Johnson County ADA and NDEAM Celebration
12:30-3:30 p.m. — Pedestrian Mall — Free entry — Celebrate the ADA's anniversary with a resource fair and career opportunities for inclusive employment.
ICPLFF Used Book Sale
10 AM – 3 PM — Iowa City Public Library — Pay what you can — Explore a treasure trove of used books at a community-friendly sale.
All Acts Open Mic Night
8 PM – Midnight — AlleyCat — Free entry — Showcase your talent at an open mic night followed by karaoke fun.
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