Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Orchestra Iowa will perform unfinished classical masterworks in Cedar Rapids on March 21 at 7:30 p.m. and at Voxman Concert Hall in Iowa City on March 22 at 2 p.m., presenting Mendelssohn’s St. Paul Overture, Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony, and Mozart’s Great Mass.

Tickets are on sale at orchestraiowa.org & 319-366-8203.

Global tensions in the oil market are driving diesel prices higher, which may increase costs for Cedar Rapids farmers as planting season nears.

Dr. Faith Parum (American Farm Bureau economist) advises farmers to watch price changes closely.

Students from seven local high schools will leave on March 13 for Ireland, where 170 musicians will perform in Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17.

The group will also explore Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, and other landmarks during spring break before returning home on March 21.

CRCSD will meet with the teachers union today at 5:00 p.m. at its Edgewood Road NW office to start new contract talks as it works to close an eight-figure budget gap amid proposed staffing cuts and school closures (open to the public).

Iowa lawmakers have advanced bills to help teachers manage disruptive student behavior in schools; the Senate unanimously passed SF2428 and the House approved a similar measure on Monday while another proposal would create pilot centers for students with behavioral challenges.

Tanager launched its Bright Foundations Therapeutic Child Care program (designed to support emotional and behavioral challenges in children ages 3 to 5) with a ribbon cutting yesterday at its Estle Center in Cedar Rapids; the program aims to help young children succeed before preschool.

Local and state leaders met with Eastern Iowa farmers yesterday to address water quality challenges and share conservation practices including cover crops, reduced tillage, and nitrate-reducing wetlands.

The meeting aimed to boost sustainable methods that protect the watershed.

City officials announced Cedar Rapids’ micromobility program will return Saturday, Mar.

14, with Veo bikes and scooters available across the city through November if weather permits — electric pedal-assist bikes will be added in May to expand travel options for riders 18 and older.

University of Iowa researchers reported that Iowa has the second highest cancer rate—over 2,500 extra cases were diagnosed in 2022—and briefed a House subcommittee yesterday, urging lawmakers to consider an increased tobacco tax to curb lung cancer risks.

Residents can explore Cedar Rapids' NewBo District, a detailed guide to local restaurants & shops featuring spots like Kismet Coffee & Bloom and Aroma Artisan Pizza with current hours and addresses.

The guide helps visitors plan a day in the neighborhood.

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.

Free Volunteer Tax Assistance

12-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free service — Get help with your taxes from VITA volunteers in a friendly library environment.

Tai Chi for Well-Being

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Enhance your fitness and balance with a relaxing Tai Chi session.