Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of April.
Good morning, Cedar Rapids.
Outdoor mini-golf courses across Eastern Iowa have begun opening for the 2026 season, with Twin Pines in Cedar Rapids operating before Memorial Day from 9 a.m. to dusk and other spots set to open soon with varying hours and prices.
Owner Tim Palmer said the original Salsa Guy Cafe at 2874 Mount Vernon Rd SE will close Saturday, April 25 (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.) due to low traffic and planned road construction, while the Blairs Ferry Road location will keep operating with new delivery options and future sites.
Forbes' list shows Iowa now has two billionaires — Greg Abel took over at Berkshire Hathaway in January after replacing Warren Buffett, while Harry Stine remains the richest with $9.9 billion, equal to the income of about 150,000 Des Moines households.
Storm chasers in Linn County are helping forecasters today by providing crucial ground-level reports on tornadoes and thunderstorms.
Meteorologist Hunter Fowkes stressed that safe driving remains essential while tracking severe weather.
Starting April 20, the bridge south of Chain Bridge Road on Covington Road will close for four months for a replacement project + a detour is posted to guide traffic safely.
Eastbound Glass Road NE between Northwood Drive and Timber Valley Court will close for driveway work on Monday, April 20 (for three days) with detours posted for drivers.
Utility work will narrow eastbound Blairs Ferry Road NE to one lane between Mildred Lane and Crane Lane starting Monday, April 20, and the reduction will last for about four days.
Drivers can sign up for text alerts on the city's website for road updates.
Experts say that a sudden warm snap has triggered earlier tree pollination across eastern Iowa, starting allergy season sooner.
They advise those affected to use antihistamines or get allergy shots if needed — residents can check local pollen counts for updates.
Officials say the boil advisory in southeast Cedar Rapids may be lifted today after the water main break at Mount Vernon Road and 32nd Street SE was repaired Thursday and tests now confirm water safety.
Residents must continue to boil water for one minute until the advisory is officially removed.
Morel season is here in Iowa, with foragers hunting prized morels and enjoying golden oyster mushrooms, giant puffballs and chicken of the woods growing near Cedar Rapids parks.
Experts advise using a field guide (or experts) to avoid dangerous lookalikes.
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.
Dungeons & Dragons Adult Club
5-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in an adventurous Dungeons & Dragons campaign tailored for adults.
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