Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Brandon Kasemeier was found guilty of first degree murder in Waukon after police discovered his estranged wife’s body during a January 2024 welfare check, and his sentencing is scheduled for July 7.

On Wednesday, Linn County Sheriff’s Office announced that Michael Scott Schappert (64) was arrested in Oregon for the 1983 murder of Ron Novak in Walker; DNA evidence has linked him to the crime and he will be extradited to Iowa soon to face a first-degree murder charge.

Today, send-off ceremonies for Iowa National Guard soldiers deploying to the Middle East are held at multiple sites—including Estherville, Camp Dodge, Fort Dodge, Mount Pleasant, Cedar Rapids, Johnston, and Davenport—as part of a 24-ceremony series for 1,800 troops.

Adjutant General Stephen Osborn said recruits have known from the beginning that service often means deployment—an expectation that has changed since he joined the Army in 1984.

Senator Art Staed (District 40) said on social media that he has Parkinson's Disease.

He noted his movement is affected and he is receiving excellent physical therapy (and will serve in the Senate through 2029).

The Summer 2025 Corridor Pool & Splash Pad Guide details outdoor swimming spots across Linn & Johnson counties, listing operating hours and closures such as Cedar Rapids pools closing early on July 4 and City Park Pool being under construction for a 2026 opening.

The guide covers schedules for locations like Beveren and Cherry Hill Aquatic Center—helping locals plan their summer visits.

The Cedar Rapids Xavier Boys tennis team swept the Class 1A championships—Charlie Legrand earned his first state singles title with a 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 win over Easton Moon—and the top-seeded doubles team of Bennett Sink and Jacob Schmit beat Evan Anderson and Jensen Hill 6-1, 6-2 to complete the sweep.

Spokes Of Hope Bike Ride

11 AM – 3 PM — Sag Wagon — Registration fee applies — Celebrate resilience and support loved ones in the inaugural community bike ride.

TINA - The Tina Turner Musical

2-4:30 p.m. — Hancher Auditorium — $45 – $115 — Experience the electrifying journey of Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, through her iconic hits.

Computer Skills Training Workshop

2:30-4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free — Enhance your computer skills and earn a NorthStar Computer Literacy Certificate.

Relay For Life Walkathon

Celebrate cancer survivors and fight back against cancer with us! From 9 am - noon at Prairie High School track & field, enjoy free breakfast, family activities, and a welcoming space to remember those we have lost to cancer.

Rock the Block: Alicia Monee

6-8 p.m. — NewBo City Market — Free entry — Enjoy live music from local and national bands during this summer concert series.

Car Show with a Cause 2025

10 AM - 2 PM — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — Free entry — Celebrate car culture with food, games, and stunning vehicles while supporting a great cause.

Amadeus by Peter Shaffer

2:30-4:30 p.m. — Theatre Cedar Rapids — Ticket discounts available — Experience the rivalry between Salieri and Mozart in this acclaimed drama filled with music and obsession.

Story Time in the Park

9-11 a.m. — Noelridge Park — Free entry — Enjoy a morning of storytelling and fun activities for all ages.

Play Fore Parks Golf Tournament

9 AM – 2 PM — Ellis Golf Course — $100 individual / $400 for foursome — Enjoy a round of golf while supporting Cedar Rapids’ innovative parks.

Big Rove Ride

8 AM – 4 PM — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $100 — Experience a fun-filled bicycle event from the creators of BACOON RIDE & PIGTAILS.