Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

An anonymous donor’s $2 million gift advanced Horizons’ $5.5 million campaign for Cedar Rapids’ first senior center since the 2008 flood; construction of the planned 13,000 sqft facility will begin in February 2026 to serve older adults in the Oak Hill (Jackson) neighborhood.

Reach Out and Read Midwest is placing 30,000 free books in pediatric clinics statewide to boost early literacy during Well Child visits, reaching thousands of children.

The nonprofit partners with Iowa Total Care and features titles that reflect local interests + promote healthy routines.

Cedar Rapids launched a real-time snow plow tracker that uses GPS to show where roads are cleared and where deicing treatments are applied during winter storms; residents can check updates on phones + computers.

Troopers with the Iowa State Patrol remind drivers to plan extra travel time during holiday travel as clear weather brings heavier traffic; they advise avoiding distractions and impaired driving (contact law enforcement if needed) to keep roads safe.

The remains of two Iowa National Guard soldiers will return to Iowa today as their families attend a dignified transfer ceremony at the Iowa Air National Guard base at Des Moines International Airport (following strict military protocols) after the posthumous promotions were announced.

Dinosaur Adventure

6:00 PM - 7:30 AM — Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center — VIP packages available — Experience a fun-filled night with dinosaurs and exclusive perks.

Cedar Rapids Roughriders vs. Sioux City Musketeers

7:05-8:35 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Cost varies — Catch an exciting hockey showdown between local rivals on FloHockey.

All that Glitters First Night Celebration

7-11:59 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex — Check website for ticket info — Celebrate the New Year with live dueling pianos, a festive dinner buffet, and a midnight champagne toast.

Chris Thile Concert

7:30-10 p.m. — The Englert Theatre — $30 – $68 — Experience the genre-defying musical genius of Grammy Award-winner Chris Thile in an evening of captivating performances.

Waterloo Black Hawks vs Cedar Rapids RoughRiders

7:05-9:05 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Check the FloHockey broadcast for all the action as the Black Hawks take on the RoughRiders in a thrilling hockey matchup.

Spanish Conversation Practice Meetup

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Vineria Wine Shop — $3 off wine and pizza — Enhance your Spanish skills and connect with fellow language enthusiasts over happy hour specials.