Soil Compilation

Sports
Calling for Free

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With over three decades of calling hockey games under his belt, Jason Shaver is considered one of the most respected sports broadcasters in the American Hockey League. While his path to the Chicago Wolves was anything but conventional, he will never put a price tag on the journey.

Music
Craig Finn Interview

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After discovering The Hold Steady at Riot Fest, Logan Melia sits down with Craig Finn to discuss his new solo record Always Been, the evolution of narrative songwriting, and finding meaning in modern American life. From faith and mental health to baseball heartbreak, the conversation spans far beyond music.

Music
March

After the Madness: A Story of Broken Brackets

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Before the championship even tips off, I am sitting here surrounded by my busted brackets, seeing exactly where things went wrong. If only (X) team would have beat (Y) then I’d be rich. An old saying. Giving ourselves reassurance that it was not our faults, rather the universe has some sort of score to settle. South Carolina in the Final Four? Three of the Four #16 Seeds had higher final four picks that South Carolina. This year of March Madness certainly wasn’t the craziest in recent memory, nor the one with the most bracket-busters early. It was rather one where … Continued

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522XX Tour Guide: Cortado Coffee and Café

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This month I traveled into the belly of our town’s burgeoning coffeehouse scene by way of Cortado—a newcomer to the 52240 zip code located on 26 South Clinton Street between late-night Iowa City staples The Airliner and Pancheros. After its grand opening on January 23rd of this year, the café has quickly developed a reputation for hot drinks and quality baked goods. Looking at the menu posted outside the establishment, potential customers can find almost any type of caffeinated beverage imaginable. Edible offerings appear subject to change; however, an abundance of variety is consistent across these listings as well. Upon … Continued

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