Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Grain Belt Beer's new lager with blaze orange camo packaging has hit shelves in Iowa and several Midwestern states—each version features the Pheasants Forever logo to support wildlife conservation.

The renewed partnership funds habitat projects as pheasant hunting season starts Oct. 25.

Yesterday, the Cedar Rapids Community School District cut the ribbon on a new Med Lab at McKinley STEAM Academy that gives middle schoolers hands-on medical learning.

The six-figure project was funded by property taxes—UnityPoint Health also helped by working closely with the district.

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks proposed renaming the University of Iowa’s Center for Intellectual Freedom after slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk—she said the new name would honor his fight for free speech.

The center, which state law requires to be established by year’s end, has not yet been created.

Today, the Economic Alliance announced a local Civics Bee for middle school students to enter with an essay—finalists will compete in live quizzes next spring and winners will advance to state finals next summer before a national round in Washington, D.C. in fall 2026.

The alliance also backs a $117 million bond proposal for key schools on November 4 and supports federal permitting reforms to speed up projects that boost local business growth.

Mayor O'Donnell and the City Council have endorsed the upcoming Cedar Rapids Community School District bond referendum in a letter that stressed strong schools benefit neighborhoods and stabilize housing — and they urged residents to vote YES on November 4th.

This vote will support improved facilities that promise a better future for the community.

Cedar Rapids officials are re-evaluating the parking plan—covering downtown, NewBo, Czech Village and Kingston Village—by launching a survey to gather public input for a new strategy expected in October or November to ease the previous strict meter enforcement.

The Iowa Hawkeyes are honoring Cedar Rapids’ seven-year-old Gwendolyn Clouse as the Hawkeye Kid Captain during the game against UMass this weekend—she was born with a rare illness and has overcome tough odds with special care.

Her parents hope her story will lead to faster newborn tests.

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.

Cedar Rapids Roughriders vs. Omaha Lancers

7:05-8:35 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Tickets required — Catch the action as the Roughriders battle the Lancers in an exciting hockey showdown.