Community

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids has become the first United Methodist church in the state to put the issue to a congregational vote — which was overwhelmingly approved.

Even while undergoing the rigors of chemotherapy for his stage 4 colon cancer, Phil Decker was among the select few who qualified for and completed this year’s Boston Marathon.

Families Helping Families of Iowa (FHF) and the Geico Philanthropic Foundation are partnering to give away 24 brand new bikes and helmets to local children in foster care. Sign up online by Thursday for a chance to win.

The Sea Chanters chorus frequently is found at the center of high-profile national events. The group performs for the president, vice president, and numerous congressional, military and foreign dignitaries. Saturday’s 7 p.m. performance is free and open to the public.

Save CR Heritage will celebrate its 10th anniversary by highlighting historic churches and other buildings at the edge of downtown Cedar Rapids during the tour.

The nature activities and book drive on Saturday — which is also independent bookstore day — will take place at Sidekick Coffee & Books, 1310 1/2 Melrose Ave. The event is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Award-winning Swiss artist duo NEVERCREW is creating a mural in downtown Cedar Rapids to honor the community effort that fueled the $20 million ConnectCR project to transform Cedar Lake and build a pedestrian-bike bridge spanning the Cedar River

Cody is a 6-year-old small male cat available for adoption at the Cedar Valley Humane Society.

This year, the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day will be held in conjunction with Marion’s City Showcase. From 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, there will be dozens of free, hands-on activities for the entire family to enjoy at the Marion YMCA & Community Rec Center, 3740 Irish Dr.

A new class of student art from Marion and Iowa City West high schools is now on display at select Veridian Credit Union branches. Marion students’ work is at the Veridian branch at 5805 Rockwell Dr. NE in Cedar Rapids, and West High School students’ work is at the Veridian branch at 704 Second St., Coralville.

A statewide campaign to bring awareness and end stigma of mental health illness, “Make It OK” has tools and resources for employers to use in May during Mental Health Awareness Month.

Eligible residents who are low- to moderate-income with documented hardship due to COVID-19 are invited to apply for a $1,400 emergency relief payment.