Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Waypoint Services announced a $4.9 million campaign to transform its former shelter at 318 Fifth St. SE into 12 supportive housing units for those experiencing literal homelessness, and construction is underway with the first tenant set to sign next fall—unit types include five studios, five one-bedrooms, and two two-bedrooms offered at below market-rate rents with utilities covered.

A new mural called Seasons We Enjoy by artist John Paul Schafer now brightens the MedQuarter District at UnityPoint Health—St. Luke’s Hospital on A Avenue and 7th Street NE in Cedar Rapids.

Community leaders say the art features hidden nods to gardening, recreation and local arts to uplift the area.

Several popular Corridor-area restaurants in Cedar Rapids closed in 2025—Bari Italian closed in March, Gianna’s Italian Beef ended its service in February, and other eateries shut their doors from June to October.

The closures mark a notable shift in the local dining scene as residents adjust to a changing restaurant landscape.

BarTini's, known for its wide variety of martinis, opened a new location in Uptown Marion—taking over the former Crab Attack site.

The bar now serves craft cocktails and small plates with special happy hour deals throughout the week.

Comedian Jordan Klepper will share his firsthand accounts of protests and political rallies during his 'Suffering Fools' tour stop at the Paramount Theatre (123 3rd Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids) on Friday, Oct.

17 at 8 p.m. He will mix humor with serious discussion as he recounts what he witnessed during his Daily Show assignments.

Despite a slow national migration rate, Iowa welcomed thousands of new residents this year drawn by lower housing costs and strong job opportunities — Census Bureau data shows newcomers arrived from states like New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.

The growing number of new neighbors highlights the state's continued appeal for work and family life.

For 20 years, the Dry Run Creek Watershed Improvement Project has helped Cedar Valley residents install rain gardens, rain barrels, and permeable pavement to improve water quality—these actions have filtered stormwater runoff and reduced erosion in Dry Run Creek.

The project has provided over $3.1 million in cost share funds and continues to boost native habitats and urban ecology.

On October 13th, Cedar Rapids and College Community School District staff received nearly 1,800 trees in 3-gallon pots at Kingston Stadium as part of the Planting Forward initiative to restore the tree canopy lost during the derecho five years ago+ student volunteers helped unload and distribute the trees from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Each tree, which measures 2 to 5 feet tall, may be planted at home or given to neighbors+ organizers say the drive rebuilds local green space.

Richard Sherzan, a 78-year-old Coralville lawyer who retired in Iowa four years ago, announced his run for a U.S. Senate seat in 2026.

He said the government must work with businesses—workers and colleges to meet modern needs and build strong public partnerships.

The I-380 southbound ramp to Wright Brothers Boulevard will be closed nightly from October 15 at 10:00 p.m. to October 16 at 6:00 a.m. and from October 16 at 10:00 p.m. to October 17 at 6:00 a.m.—it will reopen by week’s end.

A detour at Exit 10, 120 Street NW will route vehicles north to Exit 13—traffic will follow posted signs.

Mark Mueller, a farmer near Waverly, said glyphosate is key to his farming because it lets him farm with less soil tilling for cleaner water and healthier soil.

Health advocates ask lawmakers to pause its use—worrying it may cause cancer.

Mercy Medical Center now offers contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) that uses contrast dye with a standard mammogram to provide clearer images for early breast cancer detection in Cedar Rapids.

The hospital reported it already helped spot a cancer case in its first week and will expand access in the coming months.

Las Vegas Aces won another title when they defeated Phoenix in four games—marking their third championship win in four seasons—while former Iowa players Megan Gustafson and Kiah Stokes joined the champions.

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.

MercyMe and Natalie Grant Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Alliant Energy Power House — Ticket prices vary — Experience an inspiring evening of contemporary Christian music with two beloved artists.

Vibe Concert

7:30 p.m. — CSPS — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic sound of Cedar Rapids' own Vibe, known for their fresh take on classic songs.

The Silhouettes: Love Happens

2-3:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — $29 – $39 — Experience the magic of shadowdance with heartwarming tales of love from family to chocolate.

CR Sings: The Music of Bob Dylan

7:30-9 p.m. — Opus Concert Cafe — Ticket details vary — Experience live performances of iconic Bob Dylan songs in a cozy atmosphere.

Hawkeye Downs Dirt Kart Spooktacular

12 PM — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling dirt kart racing with family-friendly guaranteed seating.

Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Olympic South Side Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons surrounded by candlelight.

Monday Morning Story Time

10:00-10:30 a.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — Engage in fun stories, music, and crafts perfect for kids and caregivers.

Iowa BIG Visit Day

8 AM – 4 PM — Cedar Rapids Downtown District — Refunds available — Learn about Iowa BIG and how it empowers students for real-world impact.

The Rocking Dead Halloween Night

8-11 p.m. — Penguin's Comedy Club — $22 — Enjoy a spine-tingling night of live music with a thrilling costume contest.