Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Kim Heeren, who has served veterans through outdoor programs for nearly 20 years, is being honored at Tribute to Heroes during the Freedom Festival.

She leads programs like Casting Away Disabilities that help veterans reconnect with nature.

Local residents and business owners recall the 2008 flood when waters rose to 31 feet, submerging over 1,300 blocks and affecting thousands of homes.

Nearly 18 years later, they continue rebuilding and enhancing flood protection — a testament to Cedar Rapids' enduring resilience.

Inflation surged over 4% in May and local businesses like Grimm's Farm face extra fuel costs, with one owner noting a $50 weekly increase.

A Coe College professor said supply-driven inflation and global issues (including conflict in Iran) are forcing Iowans to cut back on spending.

Coe College is launching a three-year online bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in strategic leadership for busy adults.

The program requires 24 credits and features eight-week sessions with on-demand materials and recorded lectures — offering full support services for career guidance.

After Thursday's severe weather damaged trees, local arborist Dylan Hillyer of Goodwood Tree offered simple tips on spotting dangerous limbs on Sunday.

He explained that signs like rot spots or fungal growth signal risks — residents should call an arborist for a tree inspection.

Fairfax community members held a parade Sunday at 7-year-old Charlie Howard's home to wish him luck as he prepares for a heart transplant at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester (Minnesota) while awaiting a donor.

Friends and family offered prayers and well wishes to support him.

Super Bowl champion and former Hawkeye All-American Cooper DeJean signed autographs at Dick’s House of Sport in Cedar Rapids on Sunday during the store’s opening weekend + Hannah Stuelke also held a signing event, with local officials noting strong community support.

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.

2026 Cedar Rapids Women's Amateur Golf Tournament

Tournament running on July 10-11 — Twin Pines Golf Course — $60 entry fee — Compete in a stroke play format at this friendly local gathering.

Disney's Finding Nemo: Outdoor Musical Experience

6:30-7:45 p.m. — Brucemore — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a heartwarming musical adaptation of Disney's Finding Nemo under the stars.

Decoupage Painting Night at Just Jules

6-8 p.m. — Just Jules Pub & Restaurant — $20 for one tray, $35 for two trays — Enjoy a creative evening of painting with all supplies included and food/drink available.

Disney's Finding Nemo Musical

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Brucemore — Family-friendly event — Dive into an ocean adventure with Marlin and Nemo in this delightful musical.