Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

On Tuesday, Apr. 21, 90 veterans returned to Cedar Rapids and were welcomed at Eastern Iowa Airport by hundreds after touring Washington, D.C. for war memorial visits (reported by Iowa’s News Now).

The 59th Eastern Iowa Honor Flight will fly to Washington on Tuesday, May 12.

Iowa lawmakers are debating two property tax proposals that could reduce Kirkwood Community College’s funding, possibly forcing tuition hikes, program cuts, and delayed equipment upgrades.

College leaders say a 2% revenue cap may not match rising expenses and they will continue monitoring the proposals.

A new Iowa State study spanning 40 years shows that many college graduates leave Iowa, with 60 to 80 percent of rural natives moving to larger cities while improved economic conditions have helped more than half of alumni stay in-state and some return later for family life.

The Iowa National Guard said 145 soldiers returned from a Middle East deployment today under Operation Inherent Resolve.

A welcome home ceremony is planned for next week but details are pending.

Officials submitted an application to reinstate the Duane Arnold Energy Center's operating license as the NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) reviews it, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of a training facility in Hiawatha today featuring a simulator for future operators.

The American Lung Association’s 27th annual report finds nearly half of the county kids breathe unhealthy air, with over 112,000 statewide exposed to high pollution linked to asthma and other problems.

Health experts call on the state to cut emissions from sources like wildfires+ coal plants.

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.

Dungeons and Dragons Gathering

6-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Dive into epic adventures with fellow tabletop RPG enthusiasts.