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The Week in Social 8/30 - 9/3

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.


Cedar Rapids Receives You Are Beautiful Art Installation

The You Are Beautiful project started with a simple idea: everyone deserves to feel good about who they are. Started by simply publishing three words “You Are Beautiful” on 100 stickers back in 2002, the project now spreads the message by implementing a nationwide series of art installations.

The project selected Murals & More, a local Cedar Rapids nonprofit dedicated to public art to receive the installation for the state of Iowa. The installation will be hung on the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex facing 1st Ave E.


Willie Ray Fairley Feeds Louisiana Hurricane Victims

The owner of Willie Ray’s Q Shack announced he will be traveling to Louisiana to feed Hurricane Ida victims and those working to restore power. Fairley, who is from Mississippi, has personal experience with devastating hurricanes and knew that he wanted to do something to help.

This isn’t the first time Fairley has used his talents and resources to help victims of national disasters. After the derecho blew across eastern Iowa last year, Fairley closed his restaurant for a month and a half to feed hundreds of people per day. He also took a team to Texas to feed people after a winter storm caused major power outages. For his charitable efforts and good will, Fairley has been named one of Fortune’s 50 Greatest Leaders.


Spend a Charming Day in LeClaire

Recognized as one of America’s coolest small towns by Budget Travel, LeClaire is the perfect place to day trip and experience some of the magic of the historic river town. LeClaire is known for its ability to take visitors back in time with its historic houses, unique museums and breath-taking views of the Mississippi River.

Housed in an elegant Victorian home overlooking downtown, Grasshoppers gift shop offers unique home décor, wines and spirits, women’s clothing and handmade jewelry. LeClaire native, Buffalo Bill Cody earned his nickname by hunting more than 4,000 buffalo and claimed his larger-than-life status with his traveling Wild West show. You can learn about him at the Buffalo Bill Museum which provides hands-on interactive exhibits for all ages. To finish off your day with beautiful views of the Mississippi River, take a hike on the Smith’s Island Nature Trail.


Experience Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

“Visiting the Lacey-Keosauqua State Park has reminded my entire family why we moved to the beautiful state of Iowa,” said Melissa, Iowa native and blogger.

If you are looking for one last water adventure before the weather changes, a trip to Lacey-Keosauqua State Park may be just what you need. This area is known for its in-town hospitality, excellent fishing, hiking trails, kayaking and swimming. The state park offers a refreshing way to connect with nature with beautiful views of the lake, dog-friendly areas and a clear night sky free of light pollution. Check in using the free Iowa State Park Passport to be one step closer to winning an adventure prize pack.


Iowa’s Affordability Provides Benefits to Families and Homeowners

If the American dream includes purchasing a home, making the purchase in Iowa is a smart move. According to America’s Cultivation Corridor’s “Iowa Compared” page, the median home value in Iowa is $161,290, lower than the national average and the majority of Iowa’s surrounding states. 

Additionally, according to a study regarding median home prices conducted by Reader’s Digest, Iowa provides numerous benefits to homeowners beyond a great quality of life, including a low unemployment rate and cost of living.

Published September 08, 2021

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