Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of June.
Good morning, Cedar Rapids.
Downtown Cedar Rapids officials showed a huge bright orange sign on Mays Island at Plaza Park, set between the 2nd and 3rd Avenue bridges near the Linn County Courthouse and Veterans Memorial Building.
The sign is meant to reflect the local spirit and offer a new photo spot without using funds for road work.
The PATCH program helped nearly 300 Cedar Rapids homeowners repair their houses after the 2020 derecho and will end nearly five years later—supported by over $3.4 million from local funders—marking a key community recovery effort.
A Ford F250 rolled over on Highway 30 Eastbound near Jappa Road just before 9 a.m. Monday, causing traffic delays for about 20 minutes as debris blocked the road—62-year-old Eston Ross of Newton was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and no other vehicles were involved, according to the Linn County Sheriff's Office.
Carrie Latham, the mother of Mason Edwards who was fatally shot at Western Hills Mobile Home Court on June 11, was arrested Friday night for breaking into a trailer and threatening to kill a police officer—she now faces charges of third-degree burglary and first-degree harassment.
Iowa officials are increasing Move-Over law enforcement today to remind drivers to change lanes or slow down when they approach vehicles with flashing lights as enforcement runs through June 19.
Drivers who break the law risk a $210.25 fine and a license suspension (under Code 321.323A/321.324).
Christina Bohannan announced Tuesday her candidacy for Iowa's 1st Congressional District challenging incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks—she lost a close race in 2024 and said Miller-Meeks favored corporate interests over Iowans.
The competitive race is expected to draw national attention.
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.
Blues Traveler Concert
6-8 p.m. — McGrath Amphitheatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic sounds of Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms at this lively summer concert.
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