Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

The city has launched the Adopt A Park program so local businesses and schools can sign up to clean and beautify parks; participants receive trash bags and gloves and must commit to four activities per year over two years (earning recognition on park signage and social media).

The Iowa Pork Producers Association opened nominations on Wednesday for the best breaded pork tenderloin contest, which closes on June 1; undercover judges will review entries (top five revealed in October) and the winner earns $500 (with bragging rights).

Experts advise Cedar Rapids homeowners to review their insurance coverage as more storms are expected, noting that high deductibles on wind and hail claims may lead to costly repairs.

A local agent recommends checking features like gutters before hiring repair companies to avoid scams.

Iowa basketball forward Tavion Banks declared his eligibility for the NBA Draft and entered the transfer portal, adding he will stay a Hawkeye if a fifth year of eligibility is offered (he started most of his 37 games this season).

Fans filled the stands at Xtream Arena in Coralville on Wednesday as the Iowa Heartlanders played their final home game before suspending operations for the 2026-27 season.

The team announced the move in March as it explores plans for a sustainable future.

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.