Tuesday, March 17th, 2026
Good morning, Cedar Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Willis Dady Homeless Services in Cedar Rapids announced that Executive Director Alicia Faust will step down after nearly ten years, and David Karpick is set to lead as interim while the board searches for a permanent replacement. KWWL
- ➤ Willis Dady Homeless Services is undergoing a leadership change as Executive Director Alicia Faust resigns after nearly a decade with the organization — David Karpick will serve as interim director while the board begins its search for a new leader to keep services stable. CBS 2 Iowa
- ➤ Community members may drop off donations including food, essentials, and gift cards (max $20 per card) at (CID)'s terminal info desk from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to support TSA workers serving during the federal shutdown. CBS 2 Iowa
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Iowa’s Best Burger Contest for 2026 announced ten finalists on March 13 — including Cedar Rapids’ Salsa Guy Cafe — and secret judges will choose the winner, set to be revealed on May 1 during National Beef Month. KDAT
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Gas prices in Iowa reached $3.34 per gallon on Monday, marking a 16.5-cent increase over the week as prices are now 89.2 cents above last month’s levels. Local drivers face higher costs, with prices up 47.1 cents compared to last year. CBS 2 Iowa
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Iowa Department of Natural Resources released its 2025 MOON report showing declines in nocturnal birds including owls and nightjars. Volunteers may join the summer survey (helping track bird populations) to support ongoing wildlife research. KDAT
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Travelers at Eastern Iowa Airport face slow security lines today as many TSA workers are absent because the government shutdown has delayed full pay; officials advise arriving early to avoid missing flights + extra delays. CBS 2 Iowa
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ State-funded researchers at the University of Iowa say the state lacks detailed data on pesticide exposure for non-farmers — a gap they believe could be filled by a California monitoring system — while Gov. Reynolds said current data will be reviewed before phase two environmental research starts in June. KCRG
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American Mahjong Open Play
2-4 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in a friendly game of American mahjong with fellow enthusiasts.
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Scrabble Club
1-4 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Challenge your vocabulary skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Cedar Rapids Festival 2026
8:00 a.m. — Paramount Theatre — Sold Out — Celebrate the vibrant community spirit at this highly anticipated event in Cedar Rapids.
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Livin' La Vida Lutheran
7 p.m. — Amana Performing Arts Center — $25 — Experience a comedic journey with the Looney Lutherans through music, laughter, and joy for a lively heart.
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Youth Advisory Board Meeting
5-6 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Contribute your ideas and help shape the future of the library.
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Almost, Maine
7:30 p.m. — Ballantyne Auditorium — Free entry for students — Experience the heartfelt comedy of love and connection in a remote town on a magical winter night.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.
~ James Clear
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