Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Mary Seely joined Freedom Foundation last month as its new executive director and will work to boost awareness of programs that help Iowa veterans—such as community events and financial support to meet their needs.

Families celebrated Father's Day at Veterans Memorial Stadium as the Cedar Rapids Kernels took on the Peoria Chiefs, and many fans enjoyed their first baseball game while sharing family memories.

Jon Dolder and Brennan Clarke shared how the day brought back traditions while Walker Meyer (the manager’s son) threw out the first pitch.

Anne Dugger leads the Catherine McAuley Center, which offers shelter, food, and English tutoring to help immigrants and others prepare for the future—she helped more than 700 people last year and credits her team for their work.

Hodge Construction has grown from a small contractor in 1981 into a major local developer working on projects in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and nearby communities — the firm now builds multi-family housing, commercial spaces and manages student apartments.

The company began with single-family homes and now works on projects like the new AC by Marriott hotel in Kingston Yard — it plans to expand in Coralville, North Liberty and beyond.

Under a new Iowa law, unlicensed barbers in Cedar Rapids will cut hair under a licensed professional as part of an apprenticeship program that requires (2,000 hours) of supervised work, with shops needing to notify customers of the unlicensed status.

Owner Jeremy Hauskins of Haus Hair and Beard said he may not have time to train apprentices, while state officials say the rule will lower entry barriers for experienced workers.

University of Iowa senior Krisha Keeran was struck by a truck on March 13 while biking near Pheasant Ridge Golf Course and spent weeks in intensive care and two weeks in rehab at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s in Cedar Rapids.

She will host a USTA-sanctioned tennis tournament from July 11-13 to raise funds for SNICU nurse education at University of Iowa Health Care — a cause linked to her own recovery — and will work with the Iowa Bicycle Coalition to donate helmets for safer biking.

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.