Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Farms of America features the Kroul family farm in Mt. Vernon and explains how the group diversified from traditional row crops to selling produce, flowers, pumpkins, firewood and processed beef to guard against downturns.

John Kroul bought the farm during the 1980s crisis, and today the series highlights their entrepreneurial approach—setting them apart from most local farms.

Brian Eschen, board president of the Freedom Foundation, started a disc golf league in Cedar Rapids to help veterans connect and stay active.

He built the Shaver Park course and helped clean up and plant trees after the derecho—actions that show his strong commitment to the local veteran community.

Erin Pospisil left a friend's house on 2nd Avenue Southeast on June 3rd and has been missing since—her stepmother hopes that new DNA technology using her parents’ samples from the database will help locate her.

WalletHub released its 2025 state economy rankings which placed Iowa last with a score of 31.61.

The report ranked Iowa 51st for economic activity, 48th for economic health, and 29th for innovation potential—other Midwestern states showed stronger economic performance.

Iowa photographer Anndee Jaelynn is offering Stranger Session photoshoots that serve as blind date events for singles in Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota — she pairs strangers by matching interests and is looking for more single men to join her viral series.

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.

Breakthrough Basketball Essential Skills Camp

Over 3 days — Elevate Sports — $97 for observing coaches — Improve basketball skills through high-intensity drills and character building.