Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

After the Linn County winter overflow shelter closed last month, 50 fingerprint-activated lockers meant for storing belongings remain unused; the Housing Fund for Linn County is seeking community partners to host them on weekdays + weekends.

Iowa dairy producers are tapping into new markets as weight loss drugs and new Dietary Guidelines boost demand for milk protein—used in high-protein snacks like Doritos protein—and help support local processors with over $700 million in investment, although they face federal pricing challenges.

Free outdoor concert series are scheduled from May through September in the Corridor and Cedar Valley, featuring events in local parks and community spaces across Cedar Rapids, Cedar Falls and Waterloo (family-friendly shows).

Washington High School experienced backup issues after sewer line work on Wednesday, with repair teams addressing the problem through Thursday night (cafeteria, bathrooms, and gym locker rooms were affected).

School officials confirmed that student health remains safe and facilities meet food-grade standards as repairs continue.

On Wednesday, a House subcommittee passed a budget bill that keeps state university funding flat, with UI receiving about $223.5 million, Iowa State over $229.8 million, and UNI nearly $101.9 million plus community colleges and pediatric cancer research get extra funding.

The bill adds new public college policy changes.

New documents show that Linn County’s months-long negotiations with Google over a proposed data center near the Duane Arnold Nuclear Power Plant shifted when Google worked with Palo, with millions in benefits and water protection concerns at stake as county officials pressed for a 50-50 split.

City crews are working to assess the impact of a water main break at Mount Vernon Road and 32nd Street SE, where some homes and businesses may have low or no water pressure — residents are asked to call the city if they see issues.

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.

Expressive Arts: The Art of Music

4-5 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Explore the unique characteristics of various music genres in a community setting.