116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401

Elijah Decious
The first time I learned how to ask good questions was at age 5, when I learned Santa Claus was not real. “Whose lap have I been sitting on all these years?!” was the first question I asked, according to my mother.
I’m a features reporter for The Gazette, which means I have the opportunity to get to know folks on a more personal level, show people the best parts of life and demonstrate how daily news affects members of the community. In addition to covering restaurants and food news, I serve on The Gazette’s Fact Checker team and have a particular passion for human interest pieces as well as stories focusing on marginalized communities.
Sometimes, taking a moment to listen to others and reflect on what they say — even those who might not think they have much of a story to tell — really puts things in perspective.
When I’m not reporting, I like to travel, go bird watching, search for new items to add to my Peanuts collection and keep my cat from scaring away the cardinals on my balcony.
Sign up for the weekly Chew on This newsletter here to keep up with all the latest food and local restaurant news.
Latest Articles by Elijah Decious
Health Care and Medicine Aug. 26, 2024 7:48 am397d ago
Ten years ago, it was struggling with no cash and mounting debt. Today, the center that provides care for disadvantaged Iowans has transformed into a suite of services across its campus. And it’s not stopping there.
People & Places Aug. 26, 2024 8:35 am397d ago
The team brought home their fourth national title since 2015 this month. But they’re doing more than winning.
Restaurants Aug. 21, 2024 9:44 am402d ago
Uncertainties with construction east of the Bridge of Lions on 16th Avenue, combined with unusually wet weather, have postponed the annual Dinner on the Bridge to 2025.
Restaurants Aug. 21, 2024 11:32 am402d ago
Fancy’s Pizza has been offering elusive pop-ups every weekend next to the True Value hardware store. But each Sunday, there’s only one way to catch one of the 70 pies: be one of the first customers to place an order on Instagram.
Restaurants Aug. 21, 2024 9:09 am402d ago
Upon reopening, the renovated location will offer enhanced digital service for mobile order customers with a second-make line, simplifying online order pickup and streamlining overall operations.
Restaurants Aug. 20, 2024 6:15 am403d ago
Staff at Edith Lucille’s Bait Shack & Wing Depot — next door neighbors of Lighthouse Inn — launched the fundraiser with a goal of $30,000 for owner Steve McAtee.
Restaurants Aug. 20, 2024 5:45 am403d ago
New Iowa State Fair dishes and beverages were elected as the best by popular choice.
Community Aug. 19, 2024 3:02 pm404d ago
This year’s free, open container event, set for 6:30 to 11 p.m. Aug. 24, will offer more than 100 vendors, special lighted attractions, games, artwork and more.
Environmental News Aug. 19, 2024 7:54 am404d ago
As wildfires continue to burn at the highest alert level, Iowa firefighters are being dispatched to help federal agencies quell the flames.
People & Places Aug. 19, 2024 10:30 am404d ago
A new royal has been bestowed with the highest crown in one of the Midwest’s prominent agricultural industries. But make no mistake -- the Dairy Princess doesn’t stay on her throne.
Crime & Courts Aug. 19, 2024 8:47 am404d ago
After years of delays for mental competency proceedings and from efforts to keep his statements to police from being used at trial, Anthony Depolis, 34, on Friday pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of his wife in July 2020.
News Aug. 15, 2024 11:25 am408d ago
In those 113 years, the tools of the trade for its sculptors haven’t changed much — with one notable exception. Since Toledo native Sarah Pratt took over in 2006, the number of hands involved directly in the craft has tripled.
Restaurants Aug. 14, 2024 6:15 am409d ago
The Marion restaurant plans to broaden its service area and catering abilities, thanks to a $10,000 grant.
Restaurants Aug. 14, 2024 5:45 am409d ago
Amplifying the new brand’s excitement is the cafe’s name, image and likeness deal with Iowa Hawkeyes Women’s Basketball forward player Hannah Stuelke, who will be promoting Stack.
Restaurants Aug. 15, 2024 2:30 pm408d ago
Being weird doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact, it can be something great.