Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Animal shelters in Cedar Rapids report rising calls from pet owners facing high food, care and housing costs, and the Animal Rescue League plus Animal Care and Control now offer pet food pantries and low-cost clinics to help families keep pets at home.

CommunityVotes has released its Top Cedar Rapids Restaurants for 2026, naming platinum and gold winners in Food and Drink categories including Rio Burritos and Salsa Guy Cafe after a nomination period from mid-December through mid-May (covering pizza, BBQ, and more).

On Saturday, May 30, Wisconsin horror author and filmmaker Christopher Micklos will host a 'Meet the Author' book signing at Shady Character Books in Cedar Rapids from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—part of his 'Tick Town' tour promoting his debut novel about mutant ticks in a small Wisconsin town.

The U.S. House recently approved year-round sales of E15, a gas blend with 15% ethanol aimed at lowering prices and boosting corn demand while Iowa farm groups urge lawmakers to make the bill permanent to support rural jobs.

Sub-Zero opened a new manufacturing plant in Cedar Rapids that created over 300 full-time jobs — city leaders including Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell held a ribbon cutting and open house to spotlight the shift toward advanced manufacturing.

Practical Farmers of Iowa has announced its 2026 field day season with over 60 free, farmer-led events planned from June through November at various locations in Iowa and nearby states.

The events will showcase practices like cattle grazing + cover cropping to offer an up-close look at real farm operations.

Cedar Rapids Public Library will launch its Summer Reading Challenge on June 6 with a Giant Games Party at Ladd Library from 10 a.m. to noon.

The program invites all ages to log 600 minutes of reading by Aug. 8 – earning free books, prizes and grand drawing entries.

The Iowa DNR warns paddlers that heavy rains have raised river levels, creating hazardous debris formations + advises waiting a couple days before venturing out and wearing life jackets.

The EPA announced that Iowa will receive $46 million through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund to replace lead pipes and upgrade water systems, as part of a nearly $3 billion initiative — an effort to cut lead exposure for children.

Communities will use funds to inspect and plan replacements.

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.

Little River Band Concert

7-11 p.m. — McGrath Amphitheatre — Ticket prices range from $59 to $600 — Experience the legendary sounds of Little River Band live in Cedar Rapids.

Zach Johnson Foundation Classic

9:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Elmcrest Country Club — Registration fees apply — This premier golf tournament supports the Zach Johnson Foundation’s Kids on Course program, benefiting local students.

Just Jules Sip & Paint Night

6-8 p.m. — Just Jules Pub & Restaurant — $35 for a 16x20 canvas — Unleash your creativity while enjoying food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.