The Week in Social rounds up the best of Iowa’s uplifting stories, exciting initiatives and fun events from all 99 counties discovered through social media. In a time where every bit of good news is cherished, this series is devoted to being a fun, lighthearted way to stay informed about Iowa’s good news.
Willie Ray’s Q Shack owner headed to Texas to feed people in need https://t.co/Bqbm1WKOUP
— KCRG-TV9 (@KCRG) February 19, 2021
Willie Fairley, owner of the Cedar Rapids BBQ restaurant Willie Ray’s Q Shack, is no stranger to helping those in need in the community. Back when the derecho left more than half a million Iowans without power, Fairley helped move trees and debris, as well as cooked thousands of meals for free for the community in Cedar Rapids.
Fairley is now extending his generous hand further south. With the unprecedented winter weather impacting large portions of the state, he put out a call on social media stating that he was driving to Texas to help those impacted by the harsh weather and would need help from volunteers to haul the smokers down. The post has received thousands of shares and many have voiced their support for Fairley’s efforts in the comments.
If you’ve ever wanted a taste of Iowa, you don’t have to wait any longer. Last Thursday, Ankeny-based Firetrucker Brewery released their brand-new Iowa IPA. The American IPA combines flavors of citrus, melon and pear and finishes with a unique hint of tea mint.
The brewery enlisted the help of Des Moines artist and muralist Ben Schuh for the unique labeling on the can, which features some of Iowa’s most beautiful landscapes and historical references like the Bridges of Madison County, American Gothic, Iowa State Capitol and more. The full-sized mural was unveiled at Firetrucker after the official release of the beer, which is now available statewide.
Feb 18th release of Iowa IPA, our American IPA in cans is finally here. Celebrating all of Iowa. American IPA bringing in the citrus, melon and pear with a unique hint of tea mint at the end. 6% abv and 56 ibu. Check out the commissioned art used for the label to show off Iowa. pic.twitter.com/1jdOBiBAic
— Firetrucker Brewery (@FiretruckerBrew) February 6, 2021
Iowa fourth-grader serenades senior with saxophone https://t.co/AxzTVff6L1
— KCCI News (@KCCINews) February 17, 2021
Generation to generation, Iowans enjoy helping fellow Iowans. That played out last week when Jayden, a fourth grader from Stanton, was recorded playing the saxophone outside of the window of Accura HealthCare resident, Madeline. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Stanton students would regularly visit residents at the senior center, and Jayden wanted to make sure his “adopted grandma” received some love.
With the help of one of the resident’s nurses, Jayden delivered Madeline a French silk pie, a bouquet of her favorite flowers and performed a tiny concert in front of her window. Jayden even braved the elements, as the temperature was -2 degrees while he was playing the saxophone.
The best-selling R&B group of all time is making their way to Des Moines. The Iowa State Fair announced that Boyz II Men, the four-time Grammy Award winning group, will be performing on August 15.
The addition of Boyz II Men further strengthens the star-studded lineup of performances which include Chris Stapleton, Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, Sam Hunt, Styx, Five Finger Death Punch, the Beach Boys and Casting Crowns. Find tickets for the Grandstand Entertainment concerts here.
Motownphilly's back again. ?? Very excited to announce @BoyzIIMen with special guest Bell Biv DeVoe, presented by Homemakers Furniture, will be performing on August 15! Tickets go on sale this Friday (Feb. 19) at 10 a.m. at https://t.co/YASp1OkSI6. #Grandstand2021 pic.twitter.com/5Awgu3Rc70
— Iowa State Fair (@IowaStateFair) February 17, 2021
