Community News
Book-a-Bike Available for Library Patrons
Marion Public Library's Book-A-Bike program gives patrons the opportunity to check out one of two bicycles for use within Marion city limits. Borrowers must be 18 years of age or older to check out and ride bikes, and must also have a library card in good standing.
According to the library's website, the program was started last June as an addition to its growing collection in the Library of Things, which supports the library’s mission of encouraging lifelong learning and providing new experiences to the community.
Photo Courtesy of CR Rec Dept.
Old MacDonald's Farm is Now Open
Old MacDonald’s Farm in Bever Park is now open! The popular farm is open every day 10 am to 6 pm. There is a $1 suggested donation to help care for the animals. Animals include cows, sheep, chickens, pigs, donkeys, goats, rabbits, and ducks!
Bever Park is located on Bever Avenue and Memorial Drive SE and includes two playgrounds, an aquatic center, a tennis court, and several pavilions and walking trails.
The park is over 100 years old, and was made possible with the donation of land by Samuel Bever, a prominent citizen, whose family still lives in the Cedar Rapids community.
The park was once home to a zoo, which included bears, lions, monkeys, and exotic birds. As the animals grew older, they found new homes elsewhere. The last of animals, the monkeys, were gone by the early 1980's, and the city decided it would no longer operate a zoo.
It was reported in the Cedar Rapids Gazette that a bear had gotten loose in the 1950's. Police officers found it in a nearby garage, ending the panic that spread through the neighborhood.
A lion at the zoo was donated by millionaire, Howard Hall, who owned several animals at his estate, Brucemore, located at 2160 Linden Drive SE. It was reported that Hall was a lion trainer and worked for Metro-Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) film studio at one time.
Those who lived around the park in the 1960’s and 1970's often heard the lion roar and the peacocks call at dusk. It was a sound that became synonymous with the park.
The park may have changed over the years, but it is still a popular place to play, walk, have picnics, and swim.
Photo Curtesy of Metro Economic Development.
Downtown Market Draws Big Crowds
The Cedar Rapids Downtown Market has been drawing huge crowds since its first market June 7. The market is held every other Saturday 7:30 am to Noon The last market of the year will be Sept. 20.
The market is held in the heart of downtown Cedar Rapids and covers several city blocks. It centers on Green Square Park, where even more vendors, music, and other activities can be found.
The market also features artisan items and homemade bakery, candy, and more.
Of course, produce is sold at many booths, depending on what items are in season.
The CR Market After Dark will be held Aug. 23, from 6:30 to 11 pm. It will feature many of the same vendors, with a few extra added.
A map and more information about the downtown markets can be found by clicking here.
Eastern Iowa Arts Academy
Has a New Home
The Eastern Iowa Arts Academy has a new home. The nonprofit purchased Arthur Elementary school, 2630 B Ave. NE, and repurposed it to fit their growing organization.
Arthur school closed last year. The new school, Trailside Elementary, located across the street from the old Arthur school and merging Arthur and Garfield Elementary schools, opened in Aug. 2024.
211 Helps Find Solutions
You may have heard about 211, but you might know that they can help you find solutions to almost any situation. 211 is a free information and referral system linking Iowa residents to health and human service programs, community services, disaster services and governmental programs. It is your a one-stop source of information for those who are looking for a specific service.
You can find referrals for the following services:
- Basic Human Needs Resources including food pantries, clothing closets, shelters, rent assistance, utility assistance
- Physical and Mental Health Resources
- Employment Supports:
- Support For Elderly And Persons With Disabilities
- Support for Children, Youth and Families:
- Volunteer Opportunities and Donation Services
To learn more about this service, visit their website.