Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

AAA projects 45 million Americans will travel over Memorial Day weekend, with 39.1 million by car, and advises drivers to slow down and choose cheaper fueling options to save money.

Heaviest traffic is forecast from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and from noon to 5 p.m. Monday.

Eastern Iowa food pantries have seen a surge in families needing help as rising grocery, housing, and gas prices stretch household budgets — the North Liberty Community Pantry reported a 50% rise in visits over the past year and continues to rely on volunteers and donations.

Cafe Beignets will close its Lindale Mall location in August as the owners plan to relocate to Atlanta.

The local eatery, known for its New Orleans-style treats, first gained popularity at the Farmers Market before moving to the mall.

Middle school students gathered Tuesday at Indian Creek Nature Center for the first Cedar Rapids Regional Civics Bee, where 17 participants answered questions and presented community improvement plans.

Mount Pleasant Junior High's Shai Shen won first place — advancing him to the National Civics Bee championship in Washington, D.C.

Coe College President David Hayes addressed graduates at commencement in Cedar Rapids, praising student achievements and readiness for future opportunities.

He thanked the faculty and staff for their support during the season.

Bever Park is being restored with local goats grazing on invasive oriental bittersweet after the 2020 derecho damaged many trees.

Organizers partnered with Goats on the Go — following Iowa DNR guidelines — to help native plants grow and boost biodiversity.

Swimming and boating on local waters carry elevated risks as uneven spring warmth keeps temperatures low; an Iowa DNR expert advises easing into the water and using a buddy system following recent rains that stir debris.

Residents are urged to wear life jackets to avoid potential hazards.

Mercy Auxiliary held its annual Bloomin’ Brunch yesterday at Mercy Medical Center's Hallagan Education Center to celebrate fundraising and honor cancer survivorship.

The event unveiled new projects for 2026, including the program Thriving After Cancer + Closing the Gap featuring care leaders.

Eastern Iowa hosts summer animal encounters at petting farms, guided tours, and goat yoga sessions, with events at Old MacDonald's Farm in Cedar Rapids and Hansen's Dairy in Hudson (Bloomsbury Farm's Baby Animal Festival runs June 12 to 14 and June 19 to 21); many events require advance registration.

Hiawatha Comic Book Club

7-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Bring your favorite reads and connect with fellow comic enthusiasts.

Dungeons and Dragons for Teens and Tweens

6-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Dive into the world of Dungeons and Dragons with adventures tailored for teens and tweens in a supportive environment.

Cedar Rapids Pokémon TCG & Collectibles Show

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex — Entry fee varies — Explore a vibrant market for Pokémon cards, TCG collectibles, and more.

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Writing Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Explore the infinite possibilities of storytelling in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy genres.

Story Time at Stillwater Coffee

9:30-10:00 a.m. — Stillwater Coffee — Free event — Enjoy a cozy story time with engaging books, lively songs, and joyful movement activities for little ones and their grown-ups.

American Mahjong Open Play

2-4 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in friendly games of American mahjong with fellow enthusiasts.

Throttle & Throwbacks

7-10 p.m. — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — $0 – $15 — Experience the excitement of local NASCAR racing with fan-favorite classes and live action.

Midwest Shredfest Drift Event

8 a.m. — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — Fees vary — Experience the thrill of drifting with beginner-friendly support and on-site food options.

Computer Skills Training

2:30-4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free entry — Boost your digital skills with hands-on exercises and personalized guidance in this interactive workshop.

Blue Blocks Workshop

10-11:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage your creativity with blocks in this community-focused event for children.