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.
Greater Des Moines (DSM) named the #5 Top Emerging North American Tech Market by @CBRE https://t.co/h4SmTnTDWe @HubbellRealty @DSMpartnership @TechnologyIowa @BusinessIOWA #DSMUSA
— Jay Byers (@jaybyers) July 14, 2021
Des Moines, one of the most resilient tech hubs in the country, was recently ranked as the fifth best up-and-coming tech market by Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis Group Inc. (CBRE). CBRE used 13 metrics to rank each market’s depth, vitality and ability to attract tech talent and companies. Des Moines earned its spot on the list because of its impressive 43% rise in tech talent growth in the last five years. CBRE reports that markets such as Des Moines could see additional growth as tech-talent companies adopt to fully remote work conditions.
BREAKING: You want tickets to the Field of Dreams game in Dyersville next month? Here's your chance. The @DMRegister has all the exclusive information you need to try to land one of the most sought after tickets in the state. https://t.co/ptTpB036Vj
— Tommy Birch (@TommyBirch) July 15, 2021
Are you itching to get tickets to the MLB Field of Dreams Game? Residents of Iowa have a special opportunity to enter the ticket lottery, which will give lucky winners the chance to purchase two tickets and one parking pass to the game. Tickets for this historic Chicago White Sox vs. New York Yankees game are in high demand as the field limits seating to 8,000 fans. There is no charge to enter the lottery, but fans must have an Iowa ZIP code and be ages 18 and up.
The Downtown Block Party returns to Iowa City this year and it's bigger than ever!
— Think Iowa City (@thinkiowacity) July 14, 2021
Great article by the Gazette highlighting the event happening in 10 days.https://t.co/uYh2URfd80
Iowa City’s Downtown District will light up July 24 with the city’s fourth annual downtown block party. This year, the city will hold the event over 14 blocks, the largest amount of space in the event’s history, to ensure participants have a comfortable amount of space.
There is something for everyone at the block party and all the events are free. The favorite events of previous years will return including sand volleyball, roller skating, live music, silent disco, tug-of-war, a fashion show, a drag show and an outdoor movie. This year will also premiere new activities, including chess tournaments, salsa dancing and line dancing. Attendees over 21 who purchase a wristband and event cup can walk around the event with drinks purchased from local bars and restaurants.
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance announced a new program Monday morning to spur attendance at area venues looking to rebound from setbacks related to the COVID-19 pandemic. https://t.co/RDC5BGbAem @EconomicAllianc
— Corridor Business (@CBJournal) July 12, 2021
Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance launched a new program, Summer Rally, to encourage attendance at the city’s local art museums, concerts, racing events, games, movies, theatres and more. The program allows Cedar Rapid residents to enter more than 40 contests and giveaways to win free tickets and items from these local attractions.
“The arts, culture and entertainment industries were hit hard financially by the pandemic,” said Doug Neumann, Economic Alliance director. “Summer is the perfect time for everyone to rally to help our area venues.”

Community members in Des Moines gathered to raise money for Children’s Cancer Connection Oncology Camp through Jenna’s Jam 2.1 Bike Ride. The bike ride honors Jenna, whose favorite activities included riding her bike and attending the camp. The event included a roughly 30-mile route with some special local stops at area bars and restaurants, a bike giveaway and a 50/50 raffle. The money raised by the event allows kids fighting cancer to attend camp, continuing Jenna’s legacy. Follow Jenna’s Jam on Facebook to donate and support the cause.