Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Cedar Rapids now has a new restaurant serving Texas-style brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and a unique brisket smash burger.

Backyard BBQ, owned by Khamnoth Lovanh and Sandy Ting, opened on June 15 at the old Westdale Bowling Center (2020 Scotty Dr. SW) and is open daily from 4 to 9 p.m.

S. International Market opened on June 12 in downtown Cedar Rapids (803 Third Ave. SE) and offers staples, frozen food, produce, and ethnic groceries to local shoppers.

Owner Sui Thawng, who started his first store in Waterloo in 2019, said the new market fills the space left by Jeff Jones Furniture after it closed in 2023.

The Flying Wienie, a 26-year-old hot dog restaurant in the Taylor neighborhood at 103 Eighth Ave. SW, is for sale as a turnkey package including a 1,600-square-foot building, parking lot, equipment + business records for $435,000.

It remains open and is known for its red and yellow building with a roof propeller plane that attracts customers for Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian sausages, gyros and burgers.

The Linn County Board of Supervisors updated its fireworks resolution to align with state law, allowing consumer fireworks in unincorporated areas on July 3 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. while requiring property owner permission and approved permits for display fireworks—county parks remain off limits.

Iowa State University experts confirmed that a southeast Iowa cattle herd was infected with Theileriosis, a parasite spread by Asian Longhorned Ticks that harms red and white blood cells.

Farmers are advised to watch for signs like lethargy, anemia, and breathing trouble and to contact a vet for testing if they suspect an infestation — measures meant to slow further spread.

Emergency physician Dr. Benjamin Orozco warns Iowans that carbon monoxide—a colorless, odorless gas—can harm people in summer when using gas-powered equipment indoors or water skiing near boat exhaust.

He advised travelers in rental cabins and on boats to carry a combination CO and smoke detector with fresh batteries to protect their safety.

Midwest Living put seven Iowa small towns on its list of the 100 Best Midwest Small Town Getaways this spring, noting their fun shops, outdoor events, and historic sites.

The list includes towns like Amana Colonies and Decorah, which offer locals and visitors a chance at a relaxing weekend trip—filled with local charm.

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.