Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

After MidAmerica Publishing shut down earlier this month, Nelson Media Company bought four newspapers to keep small communities informed.

The acquisitions include the Winnebago County Tribune + Parkersburg Eclipse News Review + Butler County Tribune + Grundy Register.

Today, the Archdiocese announced a plan to consolidate 160 parishes into 24 pastorates across northeast Iowa to boost evangelization amid declining weekend Mass attendance; Archbishop Thomas Zinkula said the change may affect some parishioners’ access to services + reshape local worship.

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids’ first Catholic parish, will stop holding weekend mass from July as part of the Archdiocese of Dubuque’s reorganization due to lower attendance.

Parish leaders say the change marks the start of renewal for the local community.

At a Clear Lake GOP fundraiser on Saturday morning, candidates Adam Steen and Brad Sherman urged the Senate to act on a bill banning the pipeline operator from using eminent domain, while in West Des Moines the Iowa State Education Association endorsed governor candidate Rob Sand to boost his education-focused campaign.

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.

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Writing Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Dive into the realms of sci-fi and fantasy while honing your storytelling skills.

2026 NAIA Men's Volleyball Championship

10 AM – 1 PM — Alliant Energy Power House — Visit NAIA Volleyball site for tickets and bracket — Witness the excitement of the NAIA men's national championship.

2026 NAIA Men's Volleyball Championship

10 AM – 1 PM — Alliant Energy Power House — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling collegiate volleyball action at the championship match.

NAIA Men's Volleyball Championship - Saturday

5-8 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Ticket prices vary — Witness thrilling competition as top teams battle for the championship title.