Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Central Furniture Rescue began its search for a new CEO as founder Susan Johnston, who led since 2019, steps down — she will remain involved to support the organization’s mission of providing donated furniture to families in need.

Today, the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival opens and runs through Sunday, featuring 65 films with Iowa ties.

Venues include the historic Ideal Theater in NewBo District – a century-old site, while Student Cinema Sunday offers young filmmakers a chance at a $1,000 scholarship.

Coe College will host a Holocaust Remembrance Day event on Monday, Apr.

13 at 7 p.m. at Sinclair Auditorium featuring Dr. Alex Kor, whose parents survived Auschwitz and will share stories of survival and resilience.

Otis Road is closed as rising water now exceeds 9.5 feet and Linn County Emergency Management advises drivers to use alternate routes (conditions may improve later).

About 140 Iowa National Guard soldiers returned home Wednesday after months of deployment in the Middle East, reuniting with their families in Cedar Rapids.

More than 500 soldiers remain deployed and officials stress their safe return as a top priority.

Iowa State finished at #8 & Iowa Hawkeyes ended at #15 in the final AP poll after strong NCAA Tournament runs that included Iowa’s first Elite Eight appearance since 1987.

Both teams are now planning to fill roster holes via the transfer portal for next season.

Community Writers Circle

1-2 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — A supportive space for adults to explore creative writing and storytelling.

Cedar Rapids Titans vs North Michigan Muskies

7-10 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Special ticket prices for students and essential workers — Catch the thrilling matchup between the Titans and Muskies.

An Evening With The Fab Four

2:30-11:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the ultimate Beatles tribute with incredible performances and costume changes that capture the essence of the Fab Four.

Scrabble Club Meeting

5:30-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Gather for an evening of wordplay and friendly competition with fellow Scrabble enthusiasts.

Battle Arena: Nerf War for Teens

6-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Gather with fellow teens to engage in an epic Nerf blaster battle.

Spring Book & Bake Sale at Hiawatha Public Library

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Discover wonderful books and delicious baked goods at this community event.

Climate Future Film Festival

12-2 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Experience a captivating mix of films reflecting diverse responses to climate change.

For the Love of Plants

4-5 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in plant-themed crafts and connect with fellow teens who share a passion for gardening.

Doodlebugs: Art with Words

10:30-11 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage preschoolers in creativity through art-based storytelling.

EcoFest Cedar Rapids

10 AM – 3 PM — NewBo City Market — Free entry — Celebrate Earth Day with family-friendly activities, local foods, and live music at the Corridor's top eco festival.