Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

The Linn County Seed Library will open next Friday at the Linn County ISU Extension and Outreach Office at 1770 Boyson Road where residents can get free seeds and learn to grow their own food, launched by the Linn County Master Gardeners and Hawkeye Area Community Action Program—this resource supports local efforts in home gardening. A grand opening celebration is set for Thursday, April 24 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Jesse Erger, 35, of Cedar Rapids was arrested for allegedly drowning his dog by holding it underwater in a bathtub on the 1400 block of Tower Lane NE—police said the incident occurred in March.

A Cedar Rapids man—Jesse Erger 35—was arrested on Wednesday for animal abuse after police say he drowned his dog in the bathtub at his northeast side home in March.

Archaeologists will work with city crews on a road work project that begins Monday near a historic cemetery at the intersection of 5th Avenue and 8th Street (part of the Paving for Progress program) to check for any artifacts while the team improves the aging roadway and storm sewer. Traffic (from 5th Avenue east of 5th Street to west of 10th Street) will be affected during phased closures until the project wraps up in 2026.

Cedar Rapids' Solid Waste and Recycling Division announced that four garbage and recycling trucks—wrapped in student artwork—will debut next month, with four high school artists chosen from submissions focusing on sustainable neighborhoods.

One truck will be on display next Saturday at NewBo City Market.

Governor Kim Reynolds signed HF 924 into law lowering the handgun purchase age from 21 to 18, aligning Iowa’s rules with federal standards and the law will take effect (July 1).

On April 16, HHS Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy Jr. said autism destroys families and children—remarks that experts and parents say are hurtful and false. He also directed the NIH to study environmental exposures and vowed to have a cure by September.

The FDA recalled nearly 40 generic drugs made by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals after an inspection found cross-contamination and production issues—this recall affects medications distributed in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

People are advised to check their medicine bottles and talk with their doctor—pharmacies can help with safe disposal.

The Cher Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets available — An inspiring journey through the life and music of Cher with vibrant performances and costumes.

The Rapids

7-8 p.m. — Mirrorbox Theatre — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy an improvised soap opera comedy where audience suggestions drive the hilarity.

Cooking for a Cause: Italian Night with Chef Craig

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Groundswell Cafe — $25 per person — Learn to cook a delicious Italian dinner while supporting a great cause.

Murder Mystery Dinner Show

6-9 p.m. — 101 1st Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA — $ — Put on your detective hat and enjoy a thrilling interactive murder mystery dinner experience.

Cedar Rapids Merit Badge University 2025

8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Mount Mercy University — Ticket sales start Jan 31st — Earn exciting merit badges with experienced instructors at this community-focused event.

Dubuque Fighting Saints Home Game 2

6:59 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the Dubuque Fighting Saints in this exciting playoff match.

Dubuque Fighting Saints Home Game 3

6:59 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Ticket prices may vary — Cheer on the Dubuque Fighting Saints as they take on the Muskegon Lumberjacks in this exciting playoff matchup.

The History Center Museum Hours

12-4 p.m. — The History Center — $8 — Discover the legacy of Mercy Medical Center and the story of National Oats Company at this engaging new exhibit.

Tchaikovsky Discovers America - Family Discovery Day

7 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a delightful exploration of Tchaikovsky's music tailored for the family.

Greg Warren Live

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Penguin's Comedy Club — Check for updates — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Greg Warren as he shares his unique storytelling flair.