Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Cedar Rapids native George Nissen was inspired to build the trampoline in 1930 after watching acrobats bounce onto safety nets at the circus, and he started the Griswold-Nissen Trampoline and Tumbling Company before receiving his patent in 1945.

His daughter now promotes fitness trampolines for children and athletes (honoring his lasting impact) as his invention continues to shape modern recreation.

Firefighters responded today to a call at the 900 block of Maplewood Drive in Center Point and quickly put out a kitchen fire that was contained to one room—no one was hurt and the cause is under investigation.

Joe Murphy, president of the Iowa Business Council, said Iowa’s unemployment held at 3.7% even as unresolved U—S tariff policies raised concerns among manufacturers.

Nicole Crain of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry added that 40% of members have faced unfair trade practices and are urging swift tariff deals.

The $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot was claimed with winning tickets from Texas and Missouri—while Iowans won more than $560,000 in prizes and two near-jackpot matches earned $50,000 each.

City staff are working on a Strategic Parking Plan to fix downtown parking issues by using survey feedback and parking counts— a draft will be ready this fall and shown to City Council for review.

Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell responded to speculation about a run for Congress by saying she is thankful for the mention, but her focus remains on Cedar Rapids—she noted that real progress in the city means the best is yet to come.

Today, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and her team are on an eight-day trade mission to India to boost market access for Iowa products.

They will visit Delhi (DialogueNEXT event), Pune and Mumbai to build on last year’s work and strengthen trade ties.

The TV9 crew in Cedar Rapids shared tailgate recipes for football season—featuring Brian’s Chicken Lolipops and Chelsie’s Caramel Apple Salad with detailed steps for each dish.

The recipes list ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and pickles—designed to give local fans a tasty pregame treat.

The Crafty Bunch

6-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Bring your current craft project for a fun, social crafting night with fellow enthusiasts.

Iowa City Area Real Estate Investor Meetup

6:30-8:30 p.m. — 2343 Grande Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA — Free entry — Explore a historic renovation project with pizza and insights from experienced investors.

Back to School Drive

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free — Support local kids by donating school supplies and clothing for the upcoming school year.

Greeting Card Making Class

2-4 p.m. — NewBo City Market — Ticket required — Learn basic card-making techniques and create three unique greeting cards.

The MOJO: Soul Sacrifice

7-8:30 p.m. — Opus Concert Cafe — Tickets starting at $52 — Experience an unforgettable tribute performance to Santana by Soul Sacrifice.

Hiawatha Public Library Comic Book Club

7-8 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — A gathering for comic book and graphic novel enthusiasts to share their passion and connect with like-minded fans.

Brewnost at Czech Village

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Lion Bridge Brewing Co. — Early Bird tickets available — Savor food and beverages from local and international sources while supporting a cultural mission.

Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers' Market

7:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Cedar Rapids Downtown District — Free entry — Explore over 200 vendors offering local food, crafts, and entertainment at this celebrated market.

Fresh Conversations

1-2 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in insightful discussions about nutrition, movement, and community building for older adults.

Market by Moonlight 2025

6:30-9:30 p.m. — NewBo City Market — Tickets include a $50 donation — Experience a delicious farm-to-table meal paired with live music under the stars.