Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Karen Conrad, a nearly 40-year resident of Epworth, leads a food pantry at the St. Elizabeth Pastorate building and organizes local volunteer events to support over 150 people daily in Dubuque County.

She was honored this year as one of KCRG-TV9’s 9 Who Care.

Orchestra Iowa announced that its outdoor concert Brucemorchestra will return on Aug.

29 after reaching a $50,000 fundraising goal, including a $20,000 pledge from the Grandon Charitable Foundation & a matching gift from local sponsors to ensure free entry for children 17 and younger.

Gas prices in Iowa jumped 17 cents yesterday after oil prices spiked amid international tensions, leaving drivers like Heather Murr who spent $30 for under 10 gallons worried about rising fuel costs—AAA noted such rapid increases have not been seen in years.

The USDA reported that U.S. farms decreased by 15,000 in 2025, with Iowa losing about 500 farms — less than one percent of its total.

Iowa State University professor David Peters said small and mid-sized farms will likely continue to decline over the next seven to 10 years while lifestyle farms remain stable.

The Linn-Mar School District Board selected Dr. Nathan Wear as its next superintendent pending formal approval at the March 9 meeting, and he will begin his role on July 1.

University of Northern Iowa announced two new artificial intelligence programs in business and Mathematics to help students prepare for over 11,000 entry-level AI jobs in the region.

The majors combine technical training with real-world applications for careers in finance, insurance, logistics and more.

Cedar Rapids teens traveled to the State Capitol in Des Moines to share their personal experiences with substance use (including vaping) and urged lawmakers to expand prevention and support programs for local youth.

A new guide to Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village highlights local restaurants (cafes, bakeries) and shops with hours and special offerings to help residents plan an outing.

It offers all the essential details to explore the area’s vibrant local businesses.

Dungeons & Dragons for Adults

5-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in exciting Dungeons & Dragons adventures in a friendly adult setting.

Paws to Read

6:30-7 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — A tale-wagging good time for all featuring reading with furry friends.

Guys and Dolls Musical

7:30 PM - 11:59 PM — Theatre Cedar Rapids — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an award-winning musical comedy about love and luck in the bustling streets of Broadway.

Dungeons and Dragons for Teens and Tweens

6-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Unleash your imagination in a collaborative adventure with friends at the library.

Jo Koy's Stand-Up Comedy Show

8-11 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic genius of Jo Koy as he shares relatable tales from his colorful family.

Youth Advisory Board Meeting

5-6 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Share your ideas and help shape the library's future.

Once Upon a Book Nook

6-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Repurpose old books into unique dioramas and give them new life.

American Mahjong Open Play

2-4 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in a friendly game of American mahjong with fellow enthusiasts.

Scrabble Club

1-4 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Challenge your vocabulary skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Refuge City Church AYC Local Outreach

10 AM - 4 PM — Refuge City Church — Free entry — Engage in community outreach and ministry projects for Cedar Rapids residents.