Community

This year’s annual sock drive at the Johnson County Courthouse was dedicated to the memory of Kim Kurth, a court reporter for 33 years who’d retired in May and died of cancer in November. A record number of socks have been collected for donation to Iowa City nonprofits.

Bald eagle surveys in Iowa in 2023 showed a return to normal after 2022, the worst nesting season for many years, likely because of bird flu, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources reported.

Available for adoption at Cedar Rapids Animal Care & Control

Shelter House opens its winter emergency shelter with 40 beds, which were filled the first night it opened last week. Officials hope it’s because they have been spreading the word but are worried it may because the need is greater this year. .

Available at the Cedar Valley Humane Society

Iowa City has announced a new lead reduction program that will provide resources for home and business owners to reduce the lead in their water supply by updating old plumbing and water fixtures.

Company offers special occasion rides and holiday light tours

Gingerbread kits available while supplies last; contest runs until Dec. 11

Marion restaurant partners with Marion schools to connect public with children in need

Available at the Cedar Valley Humane Society

With 26 panelists, six entertainers and the goal of finding solutions to some persistent problems facing Black Iowans, the MLK NOW conference Jan. 13 in Cedar Rapids is expected to draw more than 1,000 people from across the state.

The Amana Colonies are ushering the holiday season with a number of events including the 38th Prelude to Christmas held Friday to Sunday with visits from Santa at the Tannenbaum Forest.