Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

The Roundhouse in Czech Village nears completion nearly 18 years after a 2008 flood destroyed the landmark.

City officials said the project (with $3 million from the Iowa Economic Development Authority) is expected to host community events by late summer.

Cedar Bend Humane Society is asking for support to secure 120 new Kuranda beds that are chew-resistant and designed for easier cleaning — a needed upgrade to replace worn-out options and keep shelter dogs comfortable.

Residents near a planned data center in southwest Cedar Rapids worry about increased traffic, though Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell says the project meets zoning rules (set since the early 2000s) and may boost local tax revenue.

Some locals recalled rapid neighborhood changes over the years.

Bistro at Blooms in Marion expanded its hours on June 4 to offer dinner and drinks Thursday through Saturday (dinner runs from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.), featuring elevated Italian cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and rotating desserts while continuing breakfast and lunch service on Mondays through Wednesdays.

On National Fry Day (June 10), local food groups from Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and Cedar Valley shared over 30 top picks for unique fries at favorite restaurants, highlighting styles from loaded to sweet potato fries.

The University of Iowa Reading Research Center launches its free Spark Early Literacy Hub to help parents keep young children learning over summer with interactive videos, downloadable booklets and memory match games focused on letter sounds.

Families in Cedar Rapids can use the hub to counteract the summer slide.

DNR wildlife biologist Todd Bogenschutz says pheasant numbers are expected to mirror last fall’s high counts, aided by a mild winter and warm spring.

The roadside survey in August will verify predictions + may boost local hunting activity.

Cancer survivors and advocates met with Rep. Zach Nunn to urge more federal funding for cancer research and highlight treatment coverage gaps.

They stressed that research advances saved lives amid Iowa’s high cancer rates + Nunn said he would seek new legislation if re-elected.

On Friday, Iowa farmers backed Rep. Hinson’s Save Our Bacon Act with Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig joining the effort to keep California’s Prop 12 rules from affecting local pork producers + some critics argued that state regulation is best suited to protect diverse farm interests.

Cedar Rapids will close Mount Vernon Road from 20th to 26th this weekend for paving, water main and sidewalk repairs under its ‘Paving for Progress’ program.

A local business owner said he sees 30% fewer customers, with officials saying it is the final full closure before work continues next year.

Iowa health experts warn Cedar Rapids residents that extreme heat can strain the heart, especially among vulnerable groups (older adults, those with heart disease or high blood pressure).

They advise staying hydrated and taking breaks in the shade during hot hours.

Davenport native Jason Halkias has visited 228 Pizza Ranch locations since starting his quest in 2005, with his latest stop in Western Wisconsin on Jul.

10. He says he will continue his mission as new restaurants open.

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.

Explore ChatGPT & Other Conversational AI

12:30–1:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library - Ladd Library — Free entry — Dive into the fascinating world of conversational AI with insights and practical examples.