Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

City officials are weighing installing security cameras in parks after repeated vandalism closed restrooms and cost taxpayers up to $53,000 in repairs; park visitors, including children, report fewer amenities for summer fun (repair crews have diverted focus from other projects).

National Hot Dog Day was celebrated yesterday as Eastern Iowa restaurants featured a variety of hot dogs.

Local Cedar Rapids spots like Pub 217 and LP Street Food impressed customers with creative options.

Cedar Rapids growers are testing new honeyberry varieties that offer a less tart taste while ISU experts work to see how the crop adapts to local soil and climate.

The *ISU Horticulture Research Station* will host a free field day, 2 to 5 p.m. on July 29, with registration due by July 24.

Cedar Rapids Community School District has named Tara Thomas Gettman as its new director of strategic communications (pending board approval).

She brings over 20 years of local journalism and public relations experience from Waterloo, ready to support our schools.

Researchers from Monarch Research and Iowa State University released dozens of monarch butterflies on Wednesday at Noelridge Park to track their journey.

They hope phone tags will send data to guide local efforts in planting milkweed and boosting shelter for this vulnerable species.

Cedar Rapids has closed part of Otis Road SE because of flood concerns.

The road between the Cargill south entrance and Prairie Park Fishery will remain closed until river levels fall enough for safe travel.

Local doctors and paramedics warn that today’s dangerous heat can lead to serious health issues — including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

They urge residents to drink water, wear lightweight clothing, and seek shade during peak temperatures.

Andrea Watkinson (director of oncology at UnityPoint and cancer survivor) said early detection screenings are crucial in catching cancer before it spreads; Linn County Public Health noted that many Iowans are unclear on screening guidelines and urged residents to consult their doctor.

State Treasurer Roby Smith displayed a baseball signed by Pete Rose from an unclaimed safety deposit box rented by a Mason City resident and asked Iowans for help locating his heirs; his office returned $36 million in cash plus $2.4 million in property over the past year (from 53,000 claims).

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.

Tyrus - Stand-Up Comedy Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Building — Tickets from $27 — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Tyrus in Cedar Rapids.