Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

New data from the Department of Corrections shows fewer Iowans are returning to prison—agency changes in 2023 and Fresh Start Ministries’ RISE program which offers housing and job help have helped lower recidivism.

Local volunteer Charles Morgan said he gained the confidence he needed from RISE to stay on track.

Emmy-winning comedian Elliott Threatt donated 911 pairs of socks to Mission of Hope on Thursday as part of the Pay It Forward 9/11 initiative—honoring the community that helped launch his career at Penguins Comedy Club.

Helix Electric Inc. is hiring 400 skilled workers for a new data center project in Cedar Rapids that will span over two years—applications are open for licenced journeymen, commissioning and quality technicians, site safety managers, and more to support digital infrastructure and economic growth.

Attorney General Brenna Bird warned Iowans of scammers who offer work-from-home jobs and ask for personal financial details—she urged job seekers to verify employers online and never share sensitive information before a legitimate job offer is confirmed.

Attorney General Brenna Bird warned locals to be cautious of job offers received via text or email that promise high rewards for little work.

She advised residents to research companies and avoid sharing personal banking details if an offer seems too good to be true.

On Thursday, Iowa State, UNI and the University of Iowa announced fall 2025 enrollment data.

Iowa State had 31,705 students with 6,160 first-year students, UNI welcomed 9,204 students in its largest new undergraduate class since 2017—and the University of Iowa had 31,563 students with 5,561 incoming first-year students.

Iowa State Senator Zach Wahls spoke Thursday at Raygun in Cedar Rapids and condemned the shooting that has led several politicians to cancel public events—he urged that political differences be resolved peacefully and noted that the suspect remains at large.

On Thursday morning, the Kirkwood campus was filled with 1,100 flags placed by Active Minds—each flag symbolizing the number of college students who die by suicide annually—as part of their suicide prevention efforts while Foundation 2 set up tables offering mental health resources for students and staff.

Health officials say Legionnaire’s Disease is likely under-reported because some patients show only mild symptoms while others become very sick, doctor Kumar said.

About 6,000 confirmed cases occur yearly and three dozen cases have been recorded in the Marshalltown area with one death—treatment is available if the disease is caught early.

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.

Halestorm and Lindsey Stirling Concert

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Last-minute tickets available — Experience an electrifying night of rock and violin at this sensational concert.

O.W.L.S. - Bird Watching with Jesse Ellis

1-2 p.m. — Wickiup Hill Learning Center — Free entry — Explore the world of bird watching with engaging programs designed for seniors.

Cole Swindell Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Tickets start at $42 — Enjoy a night of live country music with Cole Swindell.