Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 1st of July.
Good morning, Cedar Rapids.
A fireworks show celebrating America's 250th birthday will move to an island called Woodpecker Chute on Friday, July 3 from its previous site, though viewers will still see the event from Ellis Harbor and along Ellis Boulevard — food vendors will not be available.
The Cedar Rapids Public Library announced its new Busse Branch will open on Saturday, Sept.
19 at 1845 Sandberg Lane — a 40,000 sqft facility with study rooms, courtyards, and a children's library. A grand opening celebration will feature a 10 a.m. ribbon cutting, tours, and refreshments until 2 p.m.
AAA is activating its free Tow to Go program to help impaired drivers get home safely + reduce road hazards during the busy Independence Day weekend.
The service is available in Iowa from 6 p.m. Friday, July 3 until 6 a.m. Monday, July 6 and provides a free ride within a 10-mile radius.
Nothing Bundt Cakes is coming soon to Cedar Rapids at 1100 Blairs Ferry Rd NE (the former SmartphonesPLUS location near Target), where the bakery will serve its signature Bundt cakes with cream cheese frosting and more.
The new site will join eight other Iowa locations.
State troopers and law officers are promoting a traffic safety campaign with $10 Uber vouchers via Decide To Ride from 5 p.m. July 3 to 2 a.m. July 6 statewide to boost safe rides + enforce seatbelt and hands-free laws.
The Iowa Supreme Court ruled yesterday that Global Fiberglass Solutions executive Donald Lilly can be held personally liable for 1,300 used wind turbine blades stored in Newton, Ellsworth and Atlantic — the DNR is seeking civil penalties and an injunction based on Lilly’s signed commitments.
A heat wave is prompting local groups to help Cedar Rapids' unhoused residents by offering water, food, shelter, emergency clothes and showers today, while neighbors sell lemonade and hand out water (donations are welcomed by both organizations).
Iowa established a new emeritus license today to let physicians 60 and older teach medical residents without continuing education - a step to address the doctor shortage statewide.
The law lets seasoned doctors mentor new doctors - boosting residency programs at local hospitals.
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.
Elvis in Person
7-8:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets required — Experience a world-class tribute to Elvis Presley featuring Matt Stone and his all-star band.
World Cup 2026 Final Watch Party
2-5 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Reservations recommended — Catch the excitement of the World Cup final on the giant screen while enjoying your favorite brews.
Computer Skills Training Workshop
2:30 – 4:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free — Enhance your digital literacy and gain essential computer skills with personalized guidance in an interactive setting.
Cypress Hill Concert
7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — McGrath Amphitheatre — Ticket prices starting at $82 — Experience the iconic sounds of Cypress Hill live in Cedar Rapids.
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