Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Casey's, an Iowa-based chain known for its pizza, is expanding its reach across the nation — it will add about 80 new stores by fiscal year 2026 and open several Texas locations in 2025 while strengthening its base in Iowa.

The company reported record Q4 earnings with 11% revenue growth and improved inside-store sales fueling its expansion.

At Hawkeye Downs in Cedar Rapids, friends and family gathered for the Car Show with a Cause to honor 17-year-old Alex Prochaska, who died in a mowing accident in 2019, and the event raised about $3,400 to fund scholarships for trade students at Kirkwood Community College—offering a lasting tribute to his love of hands-on work.

Mayflies are showing up in large numbers in eastern Iowa, mostly near the Mississippi and south of Cedar Rapids.

Their burst of short, adult lives signals healthy waterways and may lead to brief, messy summer cleanups — with the mass hatch expected to last through early July.

Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announced his plans for reelection yesterday and highlighted his work on voter ID, post-election audits, paper ballots, and improved cybersecurity measures — efforts he said will guide his next term if re-elected.

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.

2025 USA Wrestling Kids Nationals

9 AM – 12 PM — Alliant Energy Power House — Cost Info Not Provided — Compete in exciting wrestling events at this national tournament for kids.

Freedom Festival Car Show

8 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Downtown District — Free entry — Explore unique cars and motorcycles while enjoying the festive July 4th atmosphere.

Caster Volor Concert

6-10 p.m. — Kingston Yard — Free entry — Rock out with a Minneapolis-based band covering the biggest hits of the hard rock and heavy metal eras.