Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

CEDAR RAPIDS—A new outreach program is linking people without homes to rental help and other community support after feedback from those who have experienced homelessness.

Homelessness Systems Manager J’nae Peterman, backed by Linn County and the City, said the program uses personal outreach methods that helped reduce unsheltered homelessness by 35% from 2023 to 2024 and will continue to guide support efforts in the community.

Iowa’s F.W. Kent Park and Campground in Johnson County was ranked among the top 10 campgrounds in the Midwest by the Dyrt for its 13 miles of hiking trails (including scenic crushed-rock paths and a historic bridge crossing) and many activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking.

It offers 86 electric sites with tables and fire rings at $20/night and is conveniently located between the Amana Colonies and Iowa City.

A new book store and coffee shop called I'll Meet You There will open later this year at 62 16th Ave SW in Cedar Rapids in a building that once housed Hospoda and Aces and Eights Saloon—owners share design updates on Instagram while planning to use a spacious patio.

Longtime local property owners are also retiring and selling their sites in Czech Village, with Czech Village Antiques set to close at the end of the year.

Gas prices in Iowa rose 15.7 cents per gallon last week to $3.05 after U.S. strikes on Iran raised oil prices globally—national gasoline and diesel averages also increased.

The Iowa Department of Education announced that summer meal programs will expand to more than 540 sites statewide to serve free, nutritious meals to children 18 and under — eligible families will also receive up to $40 per child per month from Healthy Kids Iowa for fresh foods.

A local food blogger detailed a summer review of Eastern Iowa meals from the end of April through June 23rd — listing places like Black Sheep Social Club, Café Saint Pio, and several food trucks.

The review shows a range of local dining options that readers can try this season.

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.

Italian Cocktails & Light Bites Culinary Class

6-7:30 p.m. — NewBo City Market — Ticketed event — Learn to craft classic Italian cocktails and enjoy delicious bruschetta in a fun culinary class.

Friday Night Music – Airwaves

6-9 p.m. — Cedar Ridge Distillery — Free entry — Enjoy classic rock hits performed by Eastern Iowa’s Premiere Cover Band, Airwaves.

Summer Sound Meditation

3-4 p.m. — Breathing Room Yoga — Ticket required — Experience a soothing sound meditation session with Black Dog Sound Healing Arts.