Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Nearly 40 students attended a blood drive at Linn-Mar High School on Thursday morning to promote organ donation during Donate Life Month—organized with ImpactLife and the Iowa Donor Network—while learning how donating blood can help patients awaiting transplants.

JC Risewick stepped down from the Iowa Board of Regents after announcing his move out of Iowa during a meeting Thursday in Ames — he served since his appointment in 2022 and helped hire the current university president.

Gov. Reynolds will appoint his replacement subject to state Senate approval.

House lawmakers and HHS officials proposed a revised Early Childhood Iowa bill on Thursday that would move nearly half of the local board’s $28 million to state oversight + Representative Bergan introduced an amendment to form a study committee to review impacts on local services.

The westbound lane of East Ave NW between 19th and 18th Street has been closed since Thursday (as crews repair a private sewer) and will remain shut through Saturday with a detour in place.

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.

Pied Piper Concert for Young Children

9:15-9:45 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Delight in a lively brass instrument concert tailored for young children.

Mother's Day Buffet at 350 First

10 AM – 2 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex — $45 per person — Celebrate mom with a delightful brunch buffet featuring chef-inspired dishes and treats.