Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Shirley Helmrichs has volunteered for decades with 4-H and more than 20 local organizations.

Honored as one of KCRG-TV9's 9 Who Care awardees this year in Manchester (where she mentors youth and leads community projects), she continues to serve her neighbors.

Alliant Energy is considering an unincorporated Linn County area for its proposed Morgan Valley Energy Center natural gas-fired power plant after dropping its earlier plan near Eastern Iowa Airport amid local concerns.

The company will hold an informational meeting Monday, Mar. 23 at 6 p.m. at the Hotel at Kirkwood Center in Cedar Rapids.

Whirlpool responded to Iowa Congress members over layoffs at its Amana plant by saying its global operations in Mexico are not to blame for nearly 350 planned job cuts scheduled for next Monday — the company said $150 million in recent investments require tough changes for long-term success.

Chicken Royale is set to open later this month at 2317 Mount Vernon Rd SE, taking over the former Yen Ching location.

The new restaurant will serve chicken dishes from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and is already creating a buzz among locals.

GasBuddy data show Iowa's regular gasoline prices increased by 35.6 cents per gallon and diesel rose 51 cents last week, making it one of the largest fuel price jumps in the nation + reflecting volatile market trends.

Crews from Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation conducted a routine prescribed burn at Noelridge and Navajo parks Thursday morning, and residents were advised to steer clear of the burn zones as smoke appeared in the area.

Officials will post weather-related updates on their social media channels.

Today, severe thunderstorms with large hail and possible tornadoes are forecast for the heartland, including Iowa, as warm Gulf air meets cool Canadian air.

Local emergency management officials advise residents to monitor warnings (especially on TV and radio) and be prepared to take cover.

Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered state flags to be flown at half-staff to honor two Iowa Army Reserve soldiers killed on March 1 in Kuwait.

Flags will remain lowered on public buildings until sunset on each soldier’s interment.

Restaurants across Eastern Iowa will offer Easter brunch on April 5 with diverse buffet and plated options at various times - spots in Cedar Rapids like The Class Act Restaurant require reservations to ensure seating.

The inaugural NCAA Women’s Wrestling Championships will be held in Coralville this weekend as 180 wrestlers from Divisions I, II and III compete for both individual and team titles (the event will be streamed live on ESPN+).

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.

Monday Morning Story Time

10-10:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful morning filled with stories suitable for the whole family.