Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Hy-Vee will sponsor 70 local veterans on a free trip to Washington, D.C. in October — veterans will visit Arlington National Cemetery and return to Des Moines that same night, marking the first honor flight from here since 2019.

Iowans gathered Monday morning at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Dallas County for Memorial Day to honor fallen heroes.

Congressman Zach Nunn attended as Iowa soldiers who recently returned from overseas spoke while volunteers set up flags last week.

The Coralville Lake Visitor Center reopened May 1 after nearly four years closed for repairs and renovations, offering updated restrooms and a volunteer kiosk with temporary displays including a Dunkleosteus fossil.

Officials will work with local groups to develop interactive exhibits by next summer & aim to enhance the visitor experience.

The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum in Johnston held Memorial Day traditions yesterday honoring four fallen Iowa National Guard soldiers with a free military breakfast, wreath laying, howitzer firing, and a bagpipe performance of Amazing Grace.

The last group of 1,800 Guard members at Fort Bliss will return later this week.

Residents gathered at Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City and Cedar Memorial Park in Cedar Rapids on Memorial Day to honor fallen service members, while veterans, families & community members reflected on the sacrifices made for freedom.

Yesterday marked 18 years since an EF-5 tornado leveled Parkersburg across Black Hawk and Butler counties, carrying winds of 205+ mph, killing nine, injuring at least 75, and destroying 280 homes and 22 businesses.

AAA Iowa says many drivers are not using the free Do Not Disturb function on their phones to reduce distractions, even after a Hands-Free law was signed last July.

The study shows drivers remain unaware that the feature does not affect music or navigation.

Sarah Swayze, executive director of Empowering Excellence charter school for at-risk students, is on paid leave without comment.

Earlier this month, a false gun shot report disrupted the school's downtown graduation ceremony.

The Iowa DNR is urging campers to purchase firewood at local parks and campgrounds this Memorial Day weekend to stop pests (emerald ash borer and oak wilt) from harming forests and advises burning the wood on site.

LifeServe Blood Center warns that blood donations are drying up earlier than expected this summer as high school drives end, and center officials urge more donors to help prevent shortages (only three percent of eligible adults donate annually).

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.

Josh Turner Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids, IA — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy timeless country hits by Josh Turner in a memorable live performance.

Cedar Rapids Cars & Coffee

8-10 a.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy complimentary coffee while checking out classic and special interest vehicles.