Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Brad Zaun, the SBA regional administrator for Iowa, Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska, says a new program will guarantee up to 90% of loans to food processors and related businesses to boost production, with applications opening May 1 — a move aimed at expanding processing capacity in the region.

Last week, the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival screened a record 65 films from Apr.

9-12 at Olympic South Side and Ideal Theaters in Cedar Rapids and Collins Road Theatres in Marion, with winners honored at Saturday night Eddy Awards and Student Cinema Sunday screenings.

Gas prices in Iowa increased 20.9 cents per gallon last week, now averaging $3.69, with some stations charging up to $4.59 as global supply worries push experts to predict further rises + reports show prices are 70.4 cents higher than a year ago.

Cedar Rapids Community School District leaders are evaluating a plan called 'Scenario 2' that would shift school boundaries and convert Viola Gibson into an intermediate school.

They are gathering more feedback before the final vote scheduled on April 27 amid concerns from parents, teachers and students about capacity (a key factor in the proposed changes).

The Iowa legislature sent a bill today to expand access to non-hospital mental health services by removing the 10-day coverage rule and adding a bed tracking system at child care facilities – though insurers will still require prior authorization.

The proposal may also expand services at a state-run institute if funded within its current budget.

The WNBA draft took place Monday night on ESPN with Iowa’s Hannah Stuelke—a Cedar Rapids native from the Hawkeyes—projected to be selected as she averaged over 13 points and seven rebounds in her final season.

It marked another milestone among six Iowa players drafted since 2019.

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.