Good morning, Iowa City.

Green Bay-based Nicolet National Bank announced an all-stock deal worth $864M to acquire Iowa City's MidWestOne Bank, which has nearly 100 years of service, 114 branches and 1,700 employees.

The deal will expand Nicolet’s presence into Iowa and other states and is expected to close in the first half of next year—without branch closures.

CAP Community Theatre will stage Beetlejuice Jr.—an adaptation for young audiences that brings a fresh twist to the classic story, with ticket details to be announced as the event nears.

WalletHub ranked over 400 U.S. cities and rated Ames as Iowa's best college town with Iowa City coming in third based on wallet friendliness, social life and academic opportunities.

Des Moines, Cedar Falls and Davenport also made the list with varied scores — factors that may shape college students’ choices.

The Iowa City Education Association endorsed incumbents Jayne Finch and Ruthina Malone plus newcomer Dan Stevenson for the school board election on November 4—five candidates are contesting three open seats.

Iowa food pantries warn that delays in SNAP benefits from the government shutdown are making it hard for many to get enough food—50,000 in Polk County and 250,000 statewide may soon be affected.

Leaders say they will work to order more food but worry that rising need will widen the gap if the shutdown continues.

On Wednesday, the Iowa DOT announced a new national young adult safety course—Alive at 25—that lets drivers aged 15 to 24 avoid a license suspension after a second violation by completing a four-hour program.

The course, developed with partners including the MVD and University of Iowa, will hold five classes between November 10 and December 1.

Lady Franklyn Improv Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Willow Creek Theatre Company — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of laughs with Iowa City’s first professional improv team.

All Acts Open Mic Night

8 p.m. — AlleyCat — Free entry — Showcase your talent at an open mic night with karaoke to follow.

Monday Open Comedy Mic

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

Soul Flow Yoga Class

10:30-11:30 p.m. — Public Space One — $16 drop-in or $100 for 8-class pass — Experience gentle and accessible yoga for all bodies with moments of meditation and breathwork.

Story Jam Music and Movement Program

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Iowa City Public Library — Free entry — Engage in music-making while enhancing early literacy skills in a lively environment.

ICPL Fiber Arts Hangout

6-8 p.m. — Iowa City Public Library — Free entry — Bring your fiber arts project and enjoy a casual evening of crafting and conversation with fellow enthusiasts.

Only A Mask

7:30 p.m. — The James Theater — Pay-What-You-Can — Unveil the story of psychic powers and friendships in this new musical exploration.

Heads In Motion - Talking Heads Tribute

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Englert Theatre — Tickets from $69 — Experience a dynamic tribute to the iconic band, Talking Heads.

Dharma Reading & Meditation

10:00-11:15 a.m. — Garchen Mila Buddhist Center — Free entry — Reflect on core Buddhist teachings and engage in compassion meditation together.

Concert Orchestra Performance

5:45-7:00 p.m. — Main Campus — Attendance details not provided — Experience a harmonious evening with the Concert Orchestra.