Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Local faith leaders offer guidance to residents coping with loss by providing follow-up care and community support.

Pastor Williams, Rabbi Thalblum, and Imam Selim explain how traditions like quick burials and personal outreach—key methods for easing grief—help families remember that they are not alone.

WalletHub's report released Monday ranked Iowa as having the worst economy by comparing states across 28 indicators—showing Iowa finished last in economic activity, 48th in economic health, and 29th in innovation potential while also reporting low GDP changes, startup activity, and nonfarm payroll growth.

State climatologist Justin Glisan said May was quiet with no tornadoes, one severe wind report in eastern Iowa, and several hail reports along I-35 compared to record weather last year.

He noted that drier conditions left the southwest with nearly 60% of normal rain—while warmer early temperatures helped farmers plant their crops.

Gov. Kim Reynolds signed two bills Monday that change Iowa’s election laws—one law gives the Secretary of State’s office power to verify voter citizenship and mark unconfirmed registrations while the other sets strict vote difference thresholds and requires balanced recount boards. The changes aim to add extra checks before Election Day and to bring uniformity and fairness to the recount process.

MIX Sushi & Kitchen in Marion began a two-week cook-your-own Korean BBQ soft launch that runs through June 15—reservations require a $5 deposit credited as a gift card and a fixed menu priced at $30 per person.

The restaurant’s trained staff helps diners prepare various meats, sides, and seafood by guiding them through each step.

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.

Mikayla Oz Magic Show

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free entry — Experience a delightful magic show that's interactive and filled with family-friendly comedy.

Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival

All day — Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors — Low or no-cost events — Celebrate 42 years of community joy and unity in Iowa's biggest festival.

Real Estate Today Show Breakfast

8:30-10 a.m. — Cedar Rapids Scottish Rite — $25 for no-show — Discuss broker pain points with guest speaker Barry Frink for valuable insights.