Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

A Cedar Rapids resident asked how aging in place programs help older Iowans stay at home—programs like TRAIL and city initiatives in Dubuque improve home accessibility and offer social support.

A new state law signed by Governor Kim Reynolds now requires cities to allow one accessory dwelling unit per lot, giving families more flexible living options.

Iowans shopping online for a car should not buy a vehicle sight unseen as Better Business Bureau spokeswoman Lisa Schiller said buyers must test drive and have the car inspected before signing any papers—she stressed checking the engine and title to confirm the car’s condition.

St. Charles will host the 2025 Hinterland Music Festival from August 1st to 3rd — the event expands to about 250 acres with a new layout to solve last year's issues like heat and water shortages.

Festival-goers will benefit from 13 watering stations, improved shuttles, and a 90 Degree Guarantee refund policy if temperatures hit 90° on any festival day.

College Community School District will launch an immersive experiential learning program next month at its Early Childhood Center in Cedar Rapids (125 Prairie Hill Ct.

SW), where nine themed learning centers built on two years of research will help preschoolers learn through play. The program aims to boost early literacy, math, and social-emotional skills so young students can be better prepared for kindergarten.

After an early Monday morning meeting at Eastern Iowa Airport, officials and CID said they were surprised by Alliant Energy’s 60-day notice for a proposed natural gas power plant in Fairfax—located four miles from the runway.

Alliant Energy said it is in the early stages of site selection and will work with Fairfax and Cedar Rapids to ensure the facility fits with airport operations—details will be discussed in a public meeting.

Believe in CR Schools raised almost $305K to support a campaign for a $117M bond referendum that will modernize three historic schools and renovate Kennedy High School—meanwhile, the city approved an agreement to provide up to $104K a year for three years to boost services for people experiencing homelessness.

Medicaid cuts in the new tax and spending bill signed earlier this month are expected to worsen mental health care in rural areas as experts warn that patients may lose coverage and hospitals could close.

Local experts say families will face longer drives and higher out-of-pocket costs—forcing many to forgo needed treatment.

Julie's Jamboree 2025

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Morgan Creek Park — $40 single ticket, $120 for four-pack — Enjoy a family-friendly evening with yard games, inflatables, food, and a fun run supporting children in need.

Cedar Rapids Men's City Amateur Championship

54-hole stroke play event — Aug 1-3 — Ellis Golf Course — Registration fee required — Compete in this prestigious amateur golf tournament alongside senior championship play.

Bluesmore Festival 2025

4-10 p.m. — Brucemore — Enjoy a delightful evening of family fun and live music presented by the Linn County Blues Society.

B-29 Superfortress Ride Experience

9 AM — Cedar Rapids Municipal Airport — Ticketed event — Experience a ride on the iconic B-29 Superfortress, the world's most famous flying bomber, in a variety of unique seats.

Rock 101 Camp

9 AM – 3 PM — School of Rock — $479 — A nurturing camp for beginners aged 7-12 to explore instruments and perform in a concert.

Puzzle Exchange at the Library

9-10 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Swap gently used puzzles for something new in a community-focused exchange.

Atkins Watermelon Days 5k Walk/Run 2025

12:30-2:30 p.m. — Atkins City Park Pavilion — Registration details available — Participate in a community-focused 5k race while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Watermelon Days.

K9Splash! Dog Swimming Event

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Bever Park Pool — $15 per dog — Enjoy a splash-filled day of fun for your furry friends at Cedar Rapids' dog-friendly pool event.

Jazz Under The Stars

6-9 p.m. — Noelridge Park — Free entry — Celebrate KCCK’s 50th anniversary with live jazz from local talent under the stars.

Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers' Market

7:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Cedar Rapids Downtown District — Free entry — Explore an award-winning market with entertainment, food, and 200 vendors.