Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance Events Newswire

2026 LFS Alumni Society Dues 11/10/2025 - 3/31/2026

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 23:08:17 GMT

Become of member of the LFS Alumni Society!

Proceeds from the Alumni Society directly fund the Youth LFS Program which allows area high school juniors to participate at no cost to them or their school. As an alum of the program, thank you for investing in the next generation of leaders in our community!

Alumni Society dues can be paid in 3 different ways:

1 Year Membership: $50
3 Year Membership: $125
Lifetime Membership: $500

**Alumni Society dues go towards the calendar year within which it is paid, unless it is paid in November or December, when it will count for the following calendar year. While dues can be accepted at any time, payment is encouraged prior to, or by the end of, Q1 as the spring event in April is for Alumni Society members only.

Click REGISTER to pay for Alumni Society dues via credit card or contact Tyanna at tstephenson@cedarrapids.org if you would like an invoice or to pay by check.

Alumni Society Benefits Include:

Exclusive invite to LFS Alumni Spring Lunch (April) – Alumni Society Only
Discounted admission to LFS Annual Golf Outing
Additional Alumni Society events and perks (coming soon!)
Eligibility for Alumni Society Committee & LFS Advisory Board
Opportunity to serve on an LFS industry day planning committee
The reward of staying connected while helping the program endure

Iowa Heartlanders Video Game Night 2/1/2026 3:00 PM - 2/1/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:16:01 GMT

Grab your crew, power up, and make your way to Xtream Arena for a night packed with high-score energy and zero lag in the fun. Whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore competitor, this video-game-themed night has something for everyone!

Enjoy pixel-powered entertainment both on the ice and throughout the arena, with themed games, contests, music, and interactive experiences during breaks. Get ready to press play on an unforgettable night, costumes and gaming gear encouraged!

Also make sure to check out Face Painting on the concourse, thanks to Face Painting by Hailey.

3PM
Indy
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Impact CR: Orchestra Iowa Happy Hour 2/4/2026 5:00 PM - 2/4/2026 7:00 PM

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:32:53 GMT

Social Connections: New Year. New Connections.

Kick off the new year with an evening of connection, conversation and community. Enjoy a drink of choice and a curated selection of appetizers as you mingle with emerging leaders and professionals in a dynamic and welcoming setting. Hosted at the exclusive Opus Concert Café, this unique space sets the tone for meaningful engagement, collaboration and new opportunities.

Medicare 101 2/5/2026 5:30 PM - 2/5/2026 7:00 PM

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:12:24 GMT

Business Breakfast 2/11/2026 7:30 AM - 2/11/2026 9:00 AM

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 13:47:41 GMT

The Business Breakfast Series is a gathering of area employers and industry experts for a morning of networking and in-depth discussion about the latest issues in economic development. Every event is moderated by representatives of The Gazette news division with diverse panelist perspectives.

February’s Topic focuses on ."The importance of collaboration for businesses and education"

How are businesses and education organizations working together to help meet each other's needs? How does collaboration help the workforce? How does it provide real, hands-on experiences for students?"

Panelists joining the conversation include:

Eric Townsley - District Administrator of College Community School District
Nate Klein- Vice President for Education at Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa

Tickets: $5 plus processing. Season Passes are available now!

Date/Time: Wednesday, February 11th from 8-9 AM. Doors open at 7:30 AM.

Location: NewBo City Market, 1100 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

The Collective Voice Day at the Capitol & Legislative Reception 2/11/2026 1:00 PM - 2/11/2026 7:00 PM

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:47:09 GMT

The Collective Voice Day at the Capitol brings together business and community leaders from across our region for a full day of connections and advocacy in Des Moines. The experience begins at the State Capitol, where our members and community partners meet with legislative leaders and elected officials to discuss public policy issues important to the business community. The day concludes with an evening reception that draws legislators from across the state and leaders from throughout the region. This event is both impactful and memorable and of course includes sharing the popular kolaches – a signature tradition associated with our visit to the Capitol!

This event is open to Economic Alliance members only.

Iowa Heartladners Home Game vs Kalamazoo 2/11/2026 7:00 PM - 2/11/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:16:07 GMT

Join us for our showdown against the Kalamazoo Wings!

7:00PM
Kalamazoo
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Valentine's Day Dinner for 2 at Granite City 2/12/2026 8:00 AM - 2/15/2026 12:00 Midnight

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 11:13:42 GMT

Celebrate Valentine's Day weekend at Granite City. Choose from a special menu to build your customized 4-course meal for 2. For $69 enjoy choices including spinach artichoke dip, French onion soup, chicken afredo and much more! Add a bottle of champagne, house wine or Granite City pitcher for just $12.

Increasing Your Influence Webinar 2/12/2026 12:00 Noon - 2/12/2026 1:00 PM

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:23:41 GMT

Increasing Your Influence

How Communication Styles Shape Results

Why this matters

Most breakdowns at work don’t happen because people lack skill.
They happen because communication styles collide.

Meetings stall.
Decisions get revisited.
Execution slows.

When you understand how people receive information, communication becomes clearer—and influence increases.

In this free 1-hour virtual session, you’ll gain awareness of:

What DISC is (and what it isn’t)
How to recognize different communication styles
Why misunderstandings happen—even with good intent
What effective communicators do differently
Your own dominant style and how others experience it

Who it’s for

Business owners, leaders, managers, and professionals who influence decisions, meetings, or outcomes.

Format

Live 1-hour virtual session • Free to attend

February 12, 2026 12Noon CT

Optional follow-up:
DISC assessment and facilitated group debrief available for those who want deeper personal insight.

Register here: bit.ly/IncreasingYourInfluence

Questions? Let’s have a conversation.

Dean Houdeshell – Innovative Coaching Strategies
515-805-0388 | dean@coachingwithdean.com

Private live sessions are available for companies or groups by request.

Iowa Heartlanders Hockey for All Night 2/13/2026 7:00 PM - 2/13/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:17:03 GMT

Join us at Xtream Arena for a night dedicated to love, inclusion, and unity. Hockey For All Night celebrates the diverse voices that make our sport and community stronger. No matter your background, identity, or journey you belong here.

Let’s come together to show that hockey isn’t just a game, it’s a place for everyone.

7PM
Kalamazoo Wings
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Iowa Heartlanders ARTlanders Night 2/14/2026 6:00 PM - 2/14/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:16:12 GMT

Get ready for a night bursting with creativity and color as we celebrate the magic of art and imagination. From playful designs to bold colors, this one-of-a-kind game night brings the spirit of artistic expression to the ice!

We’ll have a special ARTlanders jersey available during a postgame live auction, plus limited-edition, art-themed merch in the team store. Expect colorful fun throughout the arena as we spotlight local creativity in a big way.

6PM
Kalamazoo
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Granite City Valentine's Brunch 2/15/2026 9:00 AM - 2/15/2026 2:00 PM

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 11:13:16 GMT

Bring the whole family to enjoy a Valentine's Brunch at Granite City. Enjoy special features like Marry Me Chicken, Sweetheart Spaghetti and Meatballs and Eggs Florentine. We will also have all the classics - build your own omelete station, hand carved prime rib, fresh backed jumbo cinnamon roles and much more. Adults eat for $24 and kids between ages 6-12 eat for $9.50. Let us do the cooking while you enjoy!

Pints & Politics 2/18/2026 5:30 PM - 2/18/2026 7:30 AM

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 13:47:26 GMT

Pints & Politics is a year-round gathering featuring The Gazette and special guests from across the state and party lines. National, state, and local issues are covered, with opportunities to zone in on the latest headlines.

Attendees participate in audience polls, submit questions, and enjoy time with some of their favorite journalists, columnists, and guests! This beloved event and lively conversation invite attendees to learn more about the issues impacting their community.

Join The Gazette and Presenting Sponsor Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors on February 18 for our next Pints & Politics event. This event from our year-long series will be held at CSPS in Cedar Rapids, Iowa!

This event’s panel will include The Gazette’s Todd Dorman and Tom Barton along with special guest Adam B Sullivan! Sullivan, former columnist and editorial writer at The Gazette, was the author of 'At Liberty,' a column discussing libertarian solutions to issues facing Iowans. The Gazette’s Executive Editor, Zack Kucharski, will moderate the session.

Location: CSPS Hall- 1103 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 Cedar Rapids, IA

Date/Time: Wednesday, February 18. Doors will open at 5:30 PM with the event following from 6-7:30 PM.

Tickets: $5 plus processing. Season Passes are available now!

Iowa Heartlanders Home Game vs Wichita 2/18/2026 7:00 PM - 2/18/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:17:08 GMT

The Heartlanders face off against the Wichita Thunder this Wednesday in a high-energy showdown you won’t want to miss at Xtream Arena.

7:00PM
Wichita
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

The Juggler's Mindset - Kirkwood Corporate Training Webinar 2/19/2026 2:00 PM - 2/19/2026 3:00 PM

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 15:32:21 GMT

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2026 AT 2PM CST
The Juggler’s Mindset: A Practical Framework for Resilient Leadership and Growth
In this FREE, 50-minute webinar, presented by Kirkwood Corporate Training and the Kirkwood Foundation,
speaker Tom Hicks shares this engaging, hands-on leadership experience that uses juggling as a powerful
metaphor for failure, resilience, and growth.

Come learn a practical framework for bouncing back from setbacks, staying adaptable under pressure, and
turning everyday mistakes into momentum for continuous improvement. Are you ready to juggle?

About the Speaker: Tom Hicks is the founder and CJO (Chief Juggling Ofcer) of Throw &
Catch Consulting (throwcatchlead.com) based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He provides practical
and fun leadership development experiences that blend storytelling, reection, and active
learning to create deeper connections while playing with a purpose for individuals, teams,
and organizations. Tom has worked at all levels in higher education for the past 20+ years
and has adapted several of his most popular campus-based workshops for organizations of
all types.

This webinar will be hosted using the Zoom platform.
Sign up for free at http://www.kirkwood.edu/ctwebinars.

February BizMix Hosted by Northtowne Cycling + Fitness 2/19/2026 4:00 PM - 2/19/2026 6:00 PM

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:33:03 GMT

Join us for the February BizMix hosted by Northtowne Cycling + Fitness

Guest enjoy casual networking, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages, and an exculsive behind-the-scenes look at the host business.

BizMix brings together area professionals and is hosted by a different member business each month. This event provides EA members with increased opportunity for participation and connections. The event will run from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

If you'd like to save the event to your calendar, a calendar invite will be sent in the post-registration email. Registration is not required.

This event is for members of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance and the Marion Chamber of Commerce. Refer to our Membership Directory for a full list of members:https://www.cedarrapids.org/membership/directory/. If you're interested in becoming a member, contact our Membership Development Manager, Anne Laugen at alaugen@cedarrapids.org.

Cedar Rapids Restaurant Week 2026 2/20/2026 8:00 AM - 3/1/2026 12:00 Midnight

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:16:50 GMT

Let your tastebuds travel through the ambiance of Cedar Rapids Restaurant Week's best February 20 - March 1! From top, local restaurants come brand new carry-out menus and carefully crafted dishes and cocktails prepared especially for you! Dine in Cedar Rapids' most intensely flavorful season with Cedar Rapids Restaurant Week.

More info, including the list of participating establishments, coming soon!

Iowa Heartlanders Margartiaville Night 2/20/2026 7:00 PM - 2/20/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:16:18 GMT

Break out the Hawaiian shirts, throw on your shades, and escape to paradise—Margaritaville takes over Xtream Arena for one unforgettable night of hockey, island vibes, and frozen concoctions!

7PM
Cincinnati
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Iowa Heartlanders Cornfed Night 2/21/2026 6:00 PM - 2/21/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:17:40 GMT

THE CORNIEST NIGHT IN HEARTLANDERS HISTORY! Shuck Yea! This night will be one to remember for a long time ... This is IOWA, and who doesn't love CORN?? Don't miss out – from a specialty jersey, to giveaways, country tunes and some legendary corn-themed games, this is a night you don’t want to miss.

Also make sure to check out a Pregame Pyrotechnic Show, thanks to J&M Displays and Face Painting on the concourse, thanks to Face Painting by Hailey.

6:00PM
Cincinnati Cyclones
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Card Show 2/22/2026 11:00 AM - 2/22/2026 4:00 PM

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:08:13 GMT

Discover, buy, and trade incredible collectibles at the Lindale Mall Card Show, hosted by Locker Room

Join us on Sunday, February 22nd, and explore a great selection of trading cards from a variety of vendors. The show will take place on the Lower West Level from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, there’s something for everyone—don’t miss it!

Q1 Hiawatha Business Summit- Understanding Iowa's Changing Property Tax Landscape 2/24/2026 8:00 AM - 2/24/2026 9:00 AM

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:37:34 GMT

Property taxes touch every corner of our economy—from housing costs for employees to a company's bottom line. Join HEDCO and the Economic Alliance at ARA Gallery & Interiors for a Hiawatha Business Summit that cuts through the complexity of Iowa's property tax landscape. With four legislative proposals on the table this session aimed at lowering residential property taxes, the stakes have never been higher for understanding how these changes could reshape our community's economic future.

Our expert panel will break down exactly where your property tax dollars go and impacts on housing affordability for workforce, local government services, and the real estate market. Whether you're concerned about attracting talent to Cedar Rapids, managing your own property investments, or simply want to understand the ripple effects of potential tax reform, this summit delivers the insights needed to stay ahead of the curve.

We'll be joined by:

Brent Oleson, Linn County Treasurer
Barbra Solberg, Public Policy, Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance
Jay Whitaker, 2026 President of the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors Board

The Hiawatha Economic Development Corporation and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance collaborate to bring you this event.

Iowa Heartlanders Home Game vs Bloomington 2/25/2026 7:00 PM - 2/25/2026

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:17:13 GMT

Shake off the midweek slump with fast-paced hockey action as the Heartlanders battle the Bloomington Bison this Wednesday night. It’s game time at Xtream Arena, don’t miss it!

7:00PM
Bloomington
Xtream Arena
FloHockey

Dining with Dignity 2/26/2026 6:00 PM - 2/26/2026 7:30 PM

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:06:22 GMT

Join us on February 24th at 6PM for an inspiring event led by Chef Brittany, featuring a guided chef-prepared meal and expert insights on creating meaningful dining experiences for individuals living with dementia. Caregivers will gain valuable tips on adapting meal preparation, presentation, and environment to support dignity, comfort, and connection.

Grand Living Dementia SUPPORT GROUP 2/26/2026 6:00 PM - 2/26/2026 7:00 PM

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:46:59 GMT

In partnership with Linn County, we invite you to an exclusive gathering for caregivers with loved ones with Dementia. Join us to connect with fellow caregivers and gain insights from leading experts in the field. This supportive environment offers a chance to explore practical strategies, and build a strong network of support.

Capitol Conversations: Networking 2/27/2026 4:30 PM - 2/27/2026 5:30 PM

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:09:09 GMT

Connect directly with local state legislators in a relaxed, reception-style setting. Our second session of Capitol Conversations moves beyond a fireside chat to give Economic Alliance members face-to-face time with lawmakers for meaningful dialogue and relationship-building.

Engage personally with local policymakers
Share your perspectives on key issues affecting our community
Build connections in an informal, networking-friendly environment

Prior to the event, registered attendees will receive an “Up to Date” memo with timely updates and tips to help you prepare for Capitol Conversations with legislators.