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.
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Latest Articles by Elijah Decious
Health Care and Medicine Jul. 10, 2024 11:24 am444d ago
The new machines stocked with free naloxone, the drug that can reverse an opioid overdose, have been placed at seven locations around Linn County. With an emphasis on harm reduction, specialists say they are a marker of a new mindeset for treatment programs, recovery programs and public health spaces.
News Jul. 5, 2024 1:11 pm449d ago
With months of planning and many hours of set-up, here’s a look behind the scenes that ensure Freedom Festival goes out with a bang.
Restaurants Jul. 4, 2024 6:15 am450d ago
After a three-year hiatus from its last appearance downtown, Jess Streit is serving his Cubans again with a plan to expand his model across the state.
Restaurants Jul. 4, 2024 5:45 am450d ago
Salsa Guy Cafe, a spinoff of the business known as “The Salsa Guy” with products sold at local farmers markets and Hy-Vees, will be opening this month at 2874 Mount Vernon Rd. SE.
Restaurants Jul. 3, 2024 6:15 am451d ago
Signs for two restaurants — both new to Iowa — have popped recently: Golden Apple Buffet and Cheesy Noodle Macs & Snacks
Restaurants Jul. 3, 2024 5:45 am451d ago
Lincoln Winebar, known locally for its wood-fired artisan pizza, was named to the list of just 22 establishments across the country.
Restaurants Jul. 2, 2024 12:51 pm452d ago
If you want a bit from the self-proclaimed Birria King, act now.
Business News Jul. 3, 2024 9:37 am451d ago
Growing from two locations to seven in just six years, the Fun Not Fancy group has made serious business out of lighthearted restaurant concepts.
People & Places Jun. 29, 2024 6:00 am455d ago
These spinning tops, inspired by traditional Mexican toy artisans, will bring out the child in you.
Restaurants Jun. 27, 2024 6:15 am457d ago
With a modern twist on mouthwatering classics, the chef setting the tone for the new Watermill Kitchen + Bar brings 18 years of details refined from working at upscale hotels like the Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott. The restaurant’s opening completes the property’s multi-million dollar transformation after leaving the Marriott portfolio.
Restaurants Jun. 27, 2024 5:45 am457d ago
The location is Chipotle’s third in the Corridor, following openings in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.
Restaurants Jun. 26, 2024 6:15 am458d ago
A NewBo City Market staple is expanding for the first time with a second location in a new Kingston Village Development.
Restaurants Jun. 26, 2024 5:45 am458d ago
The fast-casual concept announced plans on social media to open a second location at 1125 First Ave. SE — the corner shop vacated by Via Sofia’s earlier this month.
People & Places Jun. 24, 2024 8:29 am460d ago
The new Calyx Creek, opened in June, hopes to make lavender an experience to remember.
News Jun. 24, 2024 7:33 am460d ago
For about 50 years after the Stonewall Riots, most Pride events in Iowa were consigned to larger cities. Now, small towns are bringing a new definition to “hometown pride.”