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The @lasansky_gallery_and_studio graciously opened

The @lasansky_gallery_and_studio graciously opened their doors to First Round attendees last night, offering an exclusive glimpse into their creative oasis. Just a few blocks from the heart of Downtown, the gallery is filled with incredible works of art that adorn each wall from floor to ceiling. The generational talent becomes unmistakably clear after just a few moments spent observing the space.

To bring a fresh, hands-on element to this monthly event, Lasansky Gallery & Studio featured a printmaking demonstration of their iconic “Honest Abe,” a piece that has become instantly recognizable at the Downtown @javahousecoffeeroasters.

Printmaking allows artists to produce multiple copies of the same image, known as prints, that are more affordable to the public, while still retaining the high degree of craftsmanship. Don’t be mistaken, the printmaking process is no small feat. @adamrake, pictured above, expertly guided the demonstration, sharing insights into the meticulous and historically rich process. While the process requires a significant level of accuracy, it also allows for creative variations in each print.

Today the Lasansky’s still use a paper that Mauricio Lasansky had made in France in the 1960’s. This specialty cotton paper was made for the unique process that the Lasansky family has continued in Intaglio printmaking for four generations.

Thank you Lasansky Gallery & Studio for welcoming us into your home and for sponsoring this month’s First Round!

We have exciting advocacy wins from last night's C

We have exciting advocacy wins from last night's City of Iowa City Government Council Meeting:

1) The council established a new downtown Night/Weekend parking permit
2) The Downtown street meter rates reduction to $2.25, from $3/hr was approved

We are thankful to Councilmembers Megan Alter, Mazahir Salih, Shawn Harmsen, Laura Bergus, Josh Moe, and Mayor Teague for working closely to listen to our downtown business owner feedback, meeting for conversations, and being open to these changes for downtown Iowa City.

We are now looking ahead to ensure downtown Iowa City and the City of Iowa City work together on communications and signage to support Fare Free Transit and the First Hour Free parking programs.

@thewebsteric and the Iowa City Downtown District

@thewebsteric and the Iowa City Downtown District are excited to announce the upcoming opening of Paper Crane Ramen Shop & Cocktail Lounge at 121 N Linn Street.

Opening this October in the Northside neighborhood, @papercraneic is the latest venture from Sam and Riene Gelman, the talented duo behind the nationally acclaimed Webster, in partnership with longtime team member Edwin Lee.

This new spot will feature two distinct spaces: a fast-casual ramen shop offering traditional and seasonal ramen dishes with other Japanese-inspired fare, alongside a moody, upscale, and sophisticated cocktail lounge designed exclusively for adults. It’s a whole new way to experience ramen and cocktails in Downtown Iowa City.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates on the menu and new space!

Get ready to raise a glass at Iowa City BrewFest,

Get ready to raise a glass at Iowa City BrewFest, celebrating 28 amazing years at this year’s Northside Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 28th. Explore breweries from near and far as they take over the neighborhood streets, offering samples exclusively for ticket holders.

🎟️ Your BrewFest ticket includes:
✨ Unlimited tasting with 45+ breweries, wineries, and vendors from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
✨ A custom 2024 Northside Oktoberfest glass
✨ $10 gift card to use at Northside restaurants and shops
✨ Access to Oktoberfest games, contests, and live entertainment

Come for the beer, stay for the fun, and help support local groups, clubs, and nonprofits—proceeds go back to the community!

🍺 GIVEAWAY ALERT🍺 Northside Oktoberfest is

🍺 GIVEAWAY ALERT🍺

Northside Oktoberfest is teaming up with @biggrovebrewery to give BrewFest attendees the ultimate brewery experience! Enter now for a chance to win a free brewery tour and a $100 gift card for you and five of your friends.

HOW TO ENTER:
- Purchase a 2024 Iowa City BrewFest ticket this week (giveaway ends at noon this Friday, September 20th)
- Already have your ticket? No problem! You’re automatically entered into the drawing.
- Tickets available at link in bio

PRIZES: 5 lucky winners will each receive:
- A FREE tour of the Big Grove Brewery in Iowa City for you and 5 friends.
- A $100 gift card for food and drinks following the brewery tour.
- Winners will be announced on Friday, September 20th.
- Following the Northside Oktoberfest, you’ll have 90 days to “redeem” your brewery tour.
- Dates and times will be scheduled with each winner.

Don’t miss your chance—tag your friends to let them know and get your tickets now! Prost!

Congratulations to Lily for winning the grand priz

Congratulations to Lily for winning the grand prize basket in the Where’s Rusty Scavenger Hunt! Thank you to all the awesome kids (and their grown-ups!) who joined the adventure and helped track down the @pentacrest.museums beloved mascot hiding in shops all over downtown this summer. Our stores loved seeing all your excited faces!

Looking for more family fun? Get your costumes ready for Thursday, October 31st when downtown shops will be ready for some spooktacular Halloween trick-or-treating during normal business hours! 🎃👻

And don’t worry, we’ve got more hunts in store—stay tuned for the Downtown Hunt for the Elves kicking off this November! Keep your eyes peeled for all the details!

Northside Saturday Nights is bringing the vibe, an

Northside Saturday Nights is bringing the vibe, and there’s more to come before the season wraps up! Don’t miss your last few chances to enjoy free live music in the beautiful Northside neighborhood. 🎶✨

🎤 September 13th – @bellamoss.music (rescheduled from July)
🎤 September 14th – @theswamplandjewels
🎤 September 21st – BrianFest
🎤 September 28th – Northside Oktoberfest featuring the Brick Street Ramblers, Iowa Brass Ensemble Quintet, The Swampland Jewels, and @iowaconservatory Performing Arts students

Gather your crew, grab some food, sip on drinks, and soak in the local talent curated by The Englert Theatre.

This series is made possible thanks to our sponsors: @hillsbank, @drssortho, Dr. Ann Connors DDS, and Phelan Tucker Law LLP.

The Iowa City Downtown District and the @cityofiow

The Iowa City Downtown District and the @cityofiowacity are partnering to celebrate our vibrant arts and culture scene with an exciting new banner design contest!

We’re looking for artists to create dynamic, eye-catching designs that will brighten up the 21 S Linn St lot while it’s under construction. This is your chance to showcase your talent and have your work featured in the heart of Downtown!

- Theme: “Iowa City Arts & Culture”
- Designs can be: photography, digital art, collage, painting, illustration, or printmaking
- 11 Winners: $200 stipend per selected design
- Deadline to Submit: September 30th
- Winners Announced: October 3rd
- Banners Installed: November

See the full application and submit designs on our website: www.downtowniowacity.com/21-s-linn-banner-contest/

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