Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Governor Kim Reynolds declared August Iowa Loves Shelter Animals Month — a move to boost pet adoptions and support shelter work.

Local rescue groups and shelters plan to hold adoption events to help find homes for homeless pets.

Jennifer Borcherding resigned as executive director of The District — Czech Village and New Bohemia — citing an organizational shift that no longer matched her goals, and the board has begun its search for a new leader.

This is the third departure from the role in two years, and the board will act as the main contact until a replacement is found.

Local sweet corn sellers say that severe weather did not harm their stock even though some days slowed production.

Veteran seller Shawn Sams explained that warm days sped up growth while cool nights delayed it—new sellers at Pheasant Run Farm also faced minor delays but maintained good sales.

On Friday, Cedar Rapids witnesses testified in court about Chris Bagley's murder—Bagley was found in March 2019 and the medical examiner confirmed his death was caused by multiple sharp-force injuries amid conflicting statements from involved parties.

A 55-year-old man was charged with second degree criminal mischief after police reported that a rock broke a window at Burger King on 33rd Street SW in Cedar Rapids early Friday morning—no break-in or further damage was observed.

Brian Glenister was a paleontologist and professor who saved Devonian Fossil Gorge after a 1993 flood uncovered ancient fossils—he led local efforts that raised over $400,000 to preserve the site for millions to visit.

On August 11, the Economic Alliance hosted U.S. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Senator Joni Ernst, and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson for a roundtable with local small business owners in Cedar Rapids.

The discussion focused on federal tax law benefits that are retroactive to January 20—preserving deductions and allowing full expensing for research investment while addressing trade policies that affect business costs.

Cedar Rapids is set to launch a new marathon in June that will include a free kids’ run, a team relay, and a full race qualifying runners for Boston—this marks the first marathon event in the city since the CRANDIC run ended in 2022.

Qi Gong at the Park

10-10:45 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Breathe deeply, move gently, and connect with nature through the practice of Qi Gong.

The Crafty Bunch

6-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Bring your craft project and connect with fellow craft enthusiasts in a fun social setting.

8th Annual REALTOR® Olympics

10:30 a.m. — Sag Wagon — Registration required — Participate in a fun-filled day of games including bags and volleyball for REALTORS® and affiliates.

Jazz Under The Stars

6:30-9 p.m. — Noelridge Park — Bring your own picnic or enjoy food from vendors while listening to local jazz artists celebrate KCCK’s 50th anniversary.

Rock the Block: Fresh Fighters

6-8 p.m. — NewBo City Market — Free entry — Experience an evening of live music with local and national bands at this vibrant summer concert series.

Monday Morning Story Time

10-10:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful morning of storytelling for kids and caregivers.

Beloit Sky Carp vs Cedar Rapids Kernels

1-4 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an afternoon of minor league baseball action in Cedar Rapids.

Manufacturing Conference

8 AM – 4 PM — The Hotel at Kirkwood Center — Tickets available until Aug 21 — Engage with industry leaders on challenges and opportunities facing local manufacturers.

Beloit Sky Carp vs. Cedar Rapids Kernels

1-4 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a fun afternoon of minor league baseball action in Cedar Rapids.

Storytellers of Cedar Rapids

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Groundswell Cafe — $7.00 – $50.00 — Kicking off the 2nd Season with an exciting lineup of new storytellers.