Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Dogs Forever will host its 5th Annual Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser on Oct.

4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Geonetric — the event will feature a silent auction, bake sale, and chili tasting with a $5 suggested donation and prizes up to $500 for top recipes.

Popeyes filed a lawsuit against Jam Equities after terminating licenses on August 29 for not meeting food safety and brand standards.

The suit alleges that Cedar Rapids and Waterloo stores still use Popeyes branding—this may lead to a court order stopping their operations and a ban on new outlets within 10 miles.

Cedar Rapids native chef Anthony Leonard, a 25-year-old chef de partie at Cobble Hill, appeared as Iowa’s only representative on season 24 of Hell’s Kitchen, which debuted on September 25 on FOX.

Filmed in June 2024 in Mashantucket—he said the intense competition and Chef Gordon Ramsay’s shifting approach during dinner service renewed his passion for cooking and strengthened his belief in teamwork.

A section of 42nd Street NE between Council Street and Old Marion Road will close to through traffic on Monday, Sept.

29 for pavement rehabilitation that is planned to last about a month. A detour on Center Point Road, 32nd Street and Oakland Road will keep local businesses accessible—work includes resurfacing, new curbs and gutters, storm sewer updates and ADA-compliant curb ramps.

Rachel Smith, the former manager at Cedar Rapids Animal Care and Control, has filed a lawsuit against the city and two employees for her alleged wrongful termination after she reported mold and moisture issues to a state inspector.

She seeks reinstatement with backpay and claims she was denied more resources before the shelter failed two state inspections in August.

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson is calling for the U.S. Department of Education to investigate a student-led news program at Linn-Mar High School—where a student read a piece about bisexual awareness week last Friday—and said she will work with Governor Reynolds while officials have yet to comment.

Rep. Ashley Hinson is calling for an investigation into claims that sexual content was promoted to minors during morning announcements at Linn-Mar High School, and the district is reviewing a student-run segment on bisexual+awareness week.

Her press conference will be held at 9:45 a.m. on September 29.

H5N1 bird flu was confirmed on turkey farms in Minnesota and has reached Eastern Iowa before the holiday season, and it may drive higher prices if the virus spreads further—farmers are using biosecurity measures to limit the spread.

National Pancake Day was celebrated on September 26th as local eateries in the Corridor served tasty pancakes enjoyed by residents.

Reviews pointed to spots like Lucky's on 16th and Tiffy Jo's Diner—each offering recipes that many locals praised.

Iowa's Hawkeyes play Indiana today at home and need a win to keep their season on track—another victory would set up stronger chances ahead of tough games like Penn State and Oregon.

Former coach Dan McCarney, a local favorite, is among those watching the game closely.

Preacher Lawson Stand-Up Comedy Show

6-7:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night full of laughs with comedian Preacher Lawson as he shares entertaining stories and experiences.

The Arc of East Central Iowa Annual Meeting & Awards

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Cedar Rapids Public Library — RSVP required — Celebrate community achievements and participate in the Annual Meeting for The Arc of East Central Iowa.

Master Gardeners Fall Talks: Get More From Your Yard

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Discover the art of gardening with tips on vibrant plant choices for every season.

Cedar Rapids Event at Lindale Mall

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Lindale Mall — Various ticket options available — Enjoy a lively event with seating options to fit your family's needs.

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders vs. Lincoln Stars

7:05-8:35 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Enjoy the excitement of a hockey showdown between local favorites and rivals.

Especially for You Race Against Breast Cancer

8 AM – 12 PM — Mercy Medical Center Emergency Room — Participation Fee — Join the 35th Annual Race Against Breast Cancer to support community health.

Adult Tabletop Game Club

6-7:30 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow tabletop enthusiasts for an evening of games and fun.

Funniest Person in Iowa Contest Finals

5:30-8 p.m. — The Ideal Theater & Bar — $10 admission — Witness Iowa's funniest comics battle it out for the coveted crown in a night of laughter and entertainment.

Cedar Rapids Hot Cider Hustle

8:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — NewBo City Market — Registration required — Experience the fun of running while enjoying hot cider and caramel apples at the finish line.

Carson Parker Trio Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Opus Concert Cafe — Tickets starting at $37 — Experience the smooth sounds of Carson Parker Trio live in Cedar Rapids.