Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

The Zach Johnson Foundation Classic in Cedar Rapids was delayed Monday morning at Elmcrest Country Club due to rain—gates reopened at 11 a.m. as officials monitored weather for a safe fundraiser.

The Loose Chain reopened on June 4 at 1731 Center Point Rd NE under new management, featuring a black-painted exterior, a larger live-edge horseshoe bar from Hazel Oak Farms, and an expanded patio that has drawn a busy crowd—customers are reminded to avoid parking in nearby lots during business hours.

One Night of Queen will rock the Paramount Theatre on August 21 as Gary Mullen + The Works perform a live Freddie Mercury tribute.

Tickets start selling June 12 at 10 a.m. online and at the box office.

Gas prices in Iowa fell by 14.4 cents per gallon to $3.82 today from a GasBuddy survey of 2,036 stations, though prices remain uncertain as crude nears $90 per barrel + output increases.

They are 42.3 cents lower than last month but 90.8 cents higher than a year ago.

A new Kids Count report shows Iowa ranked 10th nationwide in child well-being, down one spot from last year.

Anne Discher from Common Good Iowa noted declining education + reading scores while economic indicators remain strong.

Today is hot with a heat index around 100 degrees and sunny conditions, but residents should plan ahead as severe storms with hail, strong winds, and possible tornadoes are forecast to develop Wednesday afternoon and continue into Thursday, especially in eastern areas.

Local nitrate and phosphorus runoff from farms is compromising safe water conditions in the Maquoketa River and Lake Darling—limiting summer recreation—and prompting community calls for water quality tests and better treatment measures to protect public health.

Eighty Iowa National Guard soldiers will deploy to Europe next month to support Operation Atlantic Resolve + help allied countries in the Baltic region.

The move comes after 200 troops returned from the Middle East last month.

This spring, several Iowa restaurants in Cedar Rapids and nearby areas, including Boulder Tap House and Mextizo, began offering soft serve margaritas—a blend of margaritas and ice cream that went viral on social media.

Locals now have a cool, trendy treat to try.

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.

Bigger Bang Bubbles

1:30 – 2:15 PM — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Experience a high-energy bubble performance featuring fire, fog, and smoke bubbles along with fascinating science demonstrations.

Recruitment Reimagined Workshop

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Greater Cedar Rapids Community — Check for entry fee — Explore innovative volunteer recruitment strategies over lunch.

Amber Hansen: Songs For My Students

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful mix of folk, pop, and country songs designed for kids that will have everyone singing along.

Cork N Canvas Painting Class

6-8 p.m. — Mercury Diner & Drinks — $35 per person — Unleash your creativity while sipping drinks and painting a beautiful masterpiece.

USA vs Turkey - World Cup Viewing Party

9-11 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Watch the USA Men's Soccer team take on Turkey while enjoying a cold one in a lively atmosphere.

Putts & Pastries Event

9-11 a.m. — Mini Pines - Mini Golf — Free entry — Enjoy coffee and pastries while hitting holes at this fun mini golf outing.