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Articles by Riley Dunn
Iowa US Senate candidate Josh Turek says the Hawkeye State leads the nation in farm foreclosures. Does it?
Categories: If your time is short: Data shows Iowa recorded 18 Chapter 12 bankruptcy filings in 2025, ranking third in the nation. Chapter 12 bankruptcies aren’t the same as foreclosures, and they’re meant to help farmers create a plan to repay debts. Global disruptions, such as the Iran war and Trump administration tariffs, can affect supply chains and raise the price of inputs. The Midwest region recorded 121 total Chapter 12 bankruptcy filings in 2025, the most of any region in the country.
Riverside Theatre debuts latest world premiere about Shakespeare
Categories: Scott Carter’s “I Will: A Late Romance” details the story behind Shakespeare’s latter works. Riverside Theatre, watching as his words come to life on stage. For two hours, he and the other audience members traveled back 400 years, watching as one of the most celebrated writers in history experienced a creative drought.
Exploring expression through IC artists
Local DJ and local gallery PS1 share how they use their work to promote artistic expression. With its painted murals, local book readings, and chalk-stained sidewalks, Iowa City appears as the perfect canvas for artistic expression by college students and community members. While Iowa City itself is a hub for artistic expression, there is a specific place that cultivates that expression alongside the university and its students — the local gallery Public Space One.
Derek Phillips to be honored at Cy-Hawk game
The Hawkeye Marching Band, HMB, and the University of Iowa have come together to honor Derek Phillips throughout the remainder of the 2026 marching band season. “We wish to express our deepest thanks for the overwhelming support shown to our HMB family over the last few days.” UI HMB wrote in a post on social media.
GoFundMe for Derek Phillips raises over $16,000
Categories: The fundraiser, started by Intersection A Cappella, HMB, and the Drum & Bugle Corps, raised over $10,000 in one day. Singing group Intersection A Cappella, the Hawkeye Marching Band, and the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps have organized a GoFundMe to support University of Iowa student Derek Phillips’ loved ones. Phillips was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at UI Health Care after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest and collapsing shortly before halftime during the Sept.
Hayseed Press embraces Iowa writing talents
Every night after dinner, Calvin and Nile Hennick set aside the hustle of their everyday lives and came together to craft the story of a self-destructive anthropomorphic onion. The father-son team would start working around 7 or 8 p.m. and continue for a couple of hours. This process lasted for between two and three years, until their 250-page graphic novel, “Drunk Onion,” was complete.
Local Riverside founders perform in first-ever performance of ‘The Fiance’
Two people sit on a couch across from each other on stage, eyes fixed on one another as the lights dim and curtains close. Almost immediately, the audience breaks into a mix of cheers, claps, and laughter, people springing to their feet in a standing ovation. Moments later, the lights are back on and the “The Fiance’s” cast returns to the stage to take their final bows and thank the crew and creative team. This scene accompanied the show’s opening night on April 18.
Headliners | Q&A with Iowa City pop punk band Lipstick Homicide
The pop punk trio performed in the Daily Iowan Headliners concert series. April 23, 2026 Lipstick Homicide is a pop punk band based in Iowa City, composed of three friends who started the band while attending West High School in 2006. Members of the band include singer and bassist Rachel Feldmann, singer and guitarist Kane Edwards, and drummer Luke Ferguson. The band sat down with The Daily Iowan after their performance in the DI newsroom on Feb. 27, as part of the 2026 Headliners series.
Headliners
The Daily Iowan newsroom hosted its third Headliners in Iowa City on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2026, with live performances from Spirit Awake, Dead Level Set, and Lipstick Homicide. Check out the links below to see the bands’ sets and exclusive interviews with the members.
Distinguished classicist and "The Odyssey" translator Emily Wilson visits UI
For hundreds of years, people have been passing down stories of Homer's two great epics: "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey." Naturally, this telling and retelling has led to many translations of the mythical poems, transcribing the original, ancient Greek tale into a variety of other languages.
'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' excels in strong debut
It's been a while since I've been as tuned into a show as I was for "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms." Following the disappointing second season of fellow "Game of Thrones" spinoff "House of the Dragon," I was admittedly skeptical of the show at first, unsure if it would live up to the heights of its franchise. However, I had no reason to worry, as I was quickly charmed by the duo of Dunk and Egg, whose adventures the series is based on.
Hancher Auditorium announces updates to Stop/Time festival
Hancher Auditorium announced new program details for the upcoming Stop/Time festival, which will make its debut April 3-4. New additions to the festival will include a lineup of guest authors, new performers, and free community events.
'How to Defend Yourself' is a necessary, heartbreaking show everyone should see
As a 20-year-old woman, ideas of safety, self-defense, and security have been ingrained in me ever since I was a little girl. In elementary school, I was given a bracelet with my parents' numbers on it in case I ever got separated from them, and was told to scream if led away by a stranger. Even now, I still share my location with people I trust, carry a Birdie alarm, and keep my AirPods on a low volume when walking alone.
A look at the microtrends taking over Iowa City
College campuses act as a notoriously cyclical cesspool for fashion pieces, items, and lifestyles among young adults, and the University of Iowa is no exception to this consistently trendy culture. Nicholas Zimmermann, a second-year UI student, took note of ever-evolving fads on campus, drawing attention to the constant need for change and novelty. "It seems like there's a new 'thing' every semester, whether it's a water bottle or a pair of shoes or a popular game," he said.
Walker Homestead immerses guests in a Christmas Murder Mystery
Lights illuminated the dining room of Walker Homestead Farm and Winery on Friday night, casting a glow over the table settings and the guests seated at each one. Care was given to each table with poinsettia flowers, red and bright with holiday cheer, on display. The room is the perfect setting for a classy dinner, only this night, it was also the scene of a crime.
Hancher announces Stop/Time spring festival
This spring, Hancher Auditorium will debut the first edition of the Stop/Time Festival. The festival will run for two days from April 3-4 and will span a range of venues, bringing in a wide range of artists across multiple genres. Stop/Time is meant to celebrate and represent the innovation, independence, and discovery found in the modern musical and artistic landscape. The festival was co-curated by Hancher Executive Director Andre Perry and Programming and Engagement Director Aaron Greenwald.
Does 'Wicked: For Good' earn its acclaim or end up overhyped?
There's a reason why everyone is talking about "Wicked." From incredible vocals to the emotional performances of its leading actresses, the second part of the hit musical phenomenon is worth seeing.
'Argonautika' is an enjoyable and comedic voyage
As someone who is always thrilled to immerse herself in any and all retellings of Greek mythology, I was thoroughly looking forward to seeing the UI Theatre Department's production of "Argonautika." Now, upon returning from my voyage across myth and time, I can say that I was impressed with the acting, lighting, and humor contained within the show, though not as pleased with my seating.
Feline fanatics take over downtown IC in Kitty Walk
Cat lovers took over downtown Iowa City Saturday morning for the second annual Iowa City Kitty Walk. Organized by Laura Kerr and Aaron Moseley, the event involved a "cat tour" of over 100 people parading through the north side neighborhood and stopping by houses to view and play with a variety of furry felines. At some houses, sparkly, creative, and informational signs were strung on windows or planted in yards, each featuring that house's respective cat companion.
Amana Colonies Oktoberfest turns 60
Laughter filled the air in Festhalle Barn as dozens of people clad in traditional German garments gathered together, drank beer, and danced to polka-themed tunes. The milestone 60th anniversary of Amana Colonies' Oktoberfest celebration was underway, this time with expanded activities and an additional day of beer and brats. "My favorite part of Oktoberfest is actually the camaraderie, the friendships we make here," Jon Childers said.
Teezo Touchdown named headliner of UI Homecoming concert
Rapper, singer, and songwriter Teezo Touchdown has been announced as the headliner for the 2025 Homecoming Concert. SCOPE Productions will host the performer on the Pentacrest on Sep. 26 at 8 p.m. in collaboration with the University of Iowa Homecoming organization. In conjunction, the band nostrangrs has been announced as the show's opening DJ set. The concert will be free and open to all members of the public, including UI students and Iowa City community members.
mars hojilla to take the stage at Iowa City's first Songwriters Festival
Myles Evangelista is a graduate of the University of Iowa who now performs under his pop-rock alter ego mars hojilla. Evangelista overlays his music with lyrics that explore human emotions, love, heartbreak, and the transgender experience. He first broke onto the scene in 2023 at the Mission Creek Festival. This year, he's been performing at The Englert Theatre's Northside Saturday Nights, which began on May 3 and will continue through Sept. 27.
The life cycle of a book
Every book has passed through several hands and sets of eyes, sometimes across multiple agencies or publishing houses, before ending up on shelves. The publishing process can be complicated, but the editors at the University of Iowa Press are working to help writers navigate its constant unpredictability. "My book rose out of the MFA program I did in Creative Writing," UI visiting assistant professor Thomas Mira y Lopez said.
Workforce Development Success Stories: R.K. Mellon Foundation focuses on emerging fields - Pittsburgh Business Times
Pittsburgh's emerging tech industries are facing a talent crunch, and a local foundation is stepping in with millions in funding to help solve the problem.
Iowa City Video Zine highlights experimental filmmakers through community collaborations
Kyden Hotka always dreamt of directing a feature-length film. Now, with a few short films under his belt and with the support of the local video program Iowa City Video Zine, Hotka is turning that dream into a reality. Hotka works as an independent artist based in Iowa City. He created his first short film entirely by himself as a solo project, making up the story as he went along. "It was something super abstract, nightmarish, and crazy," Hotka said.
Cover story: Closures of Penn State New Kensington, Fayette to have profound impacts on students, staff and businesses - Pittsburgh Business Times
Community leaders in Fayette and New Kensington are forming transition committees and seeking creative solutions for the future use of soon-to-be-vacant Penn State buildings.
Carlow University launches College of Education and Social Work, uniting growing programs - Pittsburgh Business Times
Carlow University is shaking things up this fall with a new academic structure that brings together two of its fastest-growing disciplines.
Supply chain services provider TrueCommerce names Bill Glass as CEO - Pittsburgh Business Times
TrueCommerce names Bill Glass as CEO, focusing on innovation and customer experience.
Strip District businesses react to city's plans to reduce traffic lanes on Penn Avenue - Pittsburgh Business Times
As the city considers alterations to Penn Avenue's layout, Strip District stakeholders voice conflicting views on how the changes would impact safety, deliveries and the area's unique character.
How Pittsburgh public companies are navigating economic uncertainty amid market volatility - Pittsburgh Business Times
On earnings calls, Pittsburgh companies discussed the effects of market uncertainty.
EQT achieves net zero emissions according to new ESG report - Pittsburgh Business Times
Pittsburgh-based natural gas producer EQT releases a new report detailing its five-year journey towards ambitious sustainability goals.
84 Lumber debuts Andersen Showroom in Mt. Lebanon
MOUNT LEBANON, Pa. — Mt. Lebanon is now host to 84 Lumber Co.’s new Andersen Showroom, which was unveiled on Monday in an effort by the company to expand its market presence in the Pittsburgh area. Located at 1675 Washington Rd., the new addition counts as the company’s third such showroom. “We are excited to announce the opening of our new showroom in Mt. Lebanon,” Dave Fisher, area manager at 84 Lumber, said in a release.
Furry Land Mobile Grooming launches in Pittsburgh, bringing pet pampering to doorsteps
PITTSBURGH — Pets in the Pittsburgh area can now be pampered from the comfort and familiarity of their own homes through the Furry Land Mobile Grooming service. Founded in Las Vegas in 2017, Furry Land has grown quickly across the country and now boasts more than 70 locations, including the one in Pittsburgh. Owned and operated by Pete Rosato and Megan Ellis, Pittsburgh’s Furry Land will offer services such as full body haircuts, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and spa treatments.
Bakery Square to house new Secure Innovation Center, unlocking $150B in defense tech funding
PITTSBURGH — On June 18, the AI Strike Team announced that Walnut Capital has partnered with Fort Pitt LLC — a Western Pennsylvania nonprofit — to build a new, state-of-the-art Secure Innovation Center in Pittsburgh’s Bakery Square, unlocking access to a $150 billion federal budget allocated toward defense technology. Construction will begin this fall on the initial 6,000-square-foot facility, which will provide a secure workspace for the region.
Pittsburgh's Bakery Square to house new Secure Innovation Center, unlocking $150B in defense tech funding - Pittsburgh Business Times
The AI Strike Team announced a new partnership that is aiming to build a new Secure Innovation Center in Pittsburgh's Bakery Square.
Ohio-based Ken Ganley Automotive Group acquires Sewickley Porsche and Audi dealerships - Pittsburgh Business Times
Ken Ganley Automotive Group acquires Porsche and Audi dealerships in Sewickley, expanding its Pittsburgh presence.
Allegheny Health Network invests $6.2M in hospital expansions to meet growing patient needs - Pittsburgh Business Times
Allegheny Health Network will invest $6.2M to expand services at Allegheny Valley and Forbes Hospitals, enhancing patient care and capacity.
Aquatech acquires Singapore's Century Water to boost semiconductor manufacturing water solutions - Pittsburgh Business Times
Aquatech acquires Singapore's Century Water, expanding its global reach in the areas of water purification and recycling.
Frick Pittsburgh’s Clayton mansion undergoes $10M preservation effort
PITTSBURGH — For a short time, visitors to the Frick Pittsburgh’s Clayton mansion will be able to take behind-the-scenes tours to view the mansion’s $10 million preservation effort. The project is funded by both private and public donations and is meant to ensure that visitors to the Frick can enjoy touring the last Millionaire’s Row mansion for years to come.
Heinz Endowments commits $6M to aid nonprofits facing federal funding losses
PITTSBURGH — The Heinz Endowments is working to help counter local losses from federal funding cuts. On Wednesday, the organization announced it was committing $6 million to the second phase of a special fund, which will assist local nonprofit organizations now facing challenges with recent federal funding losses and policy changes.
UPMC Washington expands pediatric emergency services through Children's Hospital partnership - Pittsburgh Business Times
UPMC Washington's new pediatric emergency services partnership promises to transform care for local families, offering access to top-ranked specialists without lengthy travel.
Caitlin Clark entertains frenzy of fans in Carver homecoming
When Olivia Tanke first saw Caitlin Clark play in Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the WNBA superstar was still in college, having not yet gone on her back-to-back tournament runs with the Iowa women's basketball team. On Sunday, Olivia was once again given the opportunity to watch Clark, though not in the Black and Gold. Instead, she got the pleasure of watching Clark's professional team, the Indiana Fever, take on the Brazil national team in a highly anticipated preseason contest.
John D'Agata's 'Lifespan of a Fact' is brought to life in Iowa City
When John D'Agata wrote the book "Lifespan of a Fact," he never expected to see a version of the story on stage. Both he and his co-writer, Jim Fingal, thought the idea was ridiculous when a fan in New York City first proposed they turn the essay into a play. Thirteen years later, D'Agata has since sat in the audience for about three dozen different productions. The show's stop at Riverside Theatre in Iowa City, however, marks the first time D'Agata watched it in the city where he lives and works.
'Enemy of the People' is a timeless, theatrical masterpiece
Several times throughout the opening showing of "An Enemy of the People," I struggled to make up my mind about which characters were in the hypothetical "right." The show, first written by Henrik Ibsen in 1882, was adapted for modern audiences by the UI Theatre Department. The main conflict within the story centers around a small town and the new baths that have just opened, leading to the economy flourishing.
'The Mystery Hour with Jeff Houghton' returns to the Hawkeye state
On Saturday, long-time late-night talk show "The Mystery Hour with Jeff Houghton"will return to the Englert stage. Houghton, an Iowa City native and University of Iowa graduate, said he looks forward to returning to the Hawkeye state for a night of music, conversation, and comedy. "It's a dream to do a show at the Englert," Houghton said.
Iowa City dancers engage in fun, freeing dance scene
Before joining the Iowa West Coast Swing club, Kristine Pinter had only taken a few ballet classes and had little experience with social dancing. A few months later, she is now an active part of the dance community by attending classes, learning moves, and socializing with new dancers. "Dancing is a very new skill for me," Pinter said. "I'm quite surprised how much I've liked it with my background in swimming.
Hawks visit Hollywood at annual writing and publishing conference
Around 1,800 miles away from Iowa City sits the sprawling Hollywood hub of Los Angeles, California, home to many famous venues and stars. From March 26-29, it was home to the annual Association of Writers and Writing Programs, or AWP, conference and book fair, including several Hawkeyes who gained insight into the future of the publishing industry. Members of the lauded Iowa Writers' Workshop MFA program and undergraduate English major made the journey to LA.
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