Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Mercy Medical Center marked its 125th anniversary by partnering with Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity when dozens of Mercy workers built wall panels for a new home in Marion on Friday—volunteers ended the day with a blessing for the future homeowners.

Christopher Kern shot at officers during an 11-hour standoff in February on Valor Way—he was sentenced Friday to 50 years in prison without parole after pleading guilty to attempted murder charges.

CR Pride is replacing its traditional parade with a Mardi Gras-style walking parade on Saturday, July 12, at NewBo City Market — a shift prompted by decreased sponsorship amid a changing political climate.

Organizers also announced prizes for best dressed participants and creatively decorated wagons and strollers — more details will be shared soon.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced Friday she will not run for a third term, saying her decision came after careful thought, prayer, and family discussions.

Reynolds, the state's first elected woman governor (43rd governor), will end her current term in January 2027.

The University of Iowa unveiled its new state of the art gymnastics and spirit squad training center this week — a project that cost 20 million dollars and covers 21000 square feet — which features vault runways and uneven bars that let athletes try new stunts safely.

This facility continues Iowa’s gymnastics evolution that started with the first tumbling pit in 1979.

Mercy Auxiliary Spring Bazaar

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Mercy Medical Center Cedar Rapids — Free entry — Browse unique handcrafted items and support patient care services at this vibrant spring bazaar.

Good Friday Prayer Breakfast 2025

7-9 a.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex — Early Bird Tickets $34 — Gather in prayer and fellowship over breakfast with keynote speaker Chris Norton.

CAR SHOW at R&W Auto Detailing

3 PM — Summit View Village — Free entry — A delightful Cars and Coffee event featuring collaborations with local community groups.

The Cher Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets available — An inspiring journey through the life and music of Cher with vibrant performances and costumes.

The Rapids

7-8 p.m. — Mirrorbox Theatre — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy an improvised soap opera comedy where audience suggestions drive the hilarity.

Cooking for a Cause: Italian Night with Chef Craig

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Groundswell Cafe — $25 per person — Learn to cook a delicious Italian dinner while supporting a great cause.

Murder Mystery Dinner Show

6-9 p.m. — 101 1st Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA — $ — Put on your detective hat and enjoy a thrilling interactive murder mystery dinner experience.

Cedar Rapids Merit Badge University 2025

8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Mount Mercy University — Ticket sales start Jan 31st — Earn exciting merit badges with experienced instructors at this community-focused event.

Dubuque Fighting Saints Home Game 2

6:59 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Dubuque Fighting Saints in this exciting playoff match.

Dubuque Fighting Saints Home Game 3

6:59 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Ticket prices may vary — Cheer on the Dubuque Fighting Saints as they take on the Muskegon Lumberjacks in this exciting playoff matchup.