In the latest episode of CBJ podcast, “Diversity Straight Up,” hosts Sarika Bhakta and Anthony Arrington talk with Rafael Espinal, the executive director of Freelancers Union, about freelancers in today’s workplace … who they are, why their ranks are growing and why their diversity matters.

Typically a bustling place, the waiting room of the Community Health Free Clinic in Cedar Rapids grew abnormally quiet during the pandemic.

Now that COVID-19 vaccinations are increasing and cases are stabilizing, event organizers are cautiously making plans for this summer.

By most accounts, the need for nonprofit agencies has never been greater than in the past year, with the COVID-19 pandemic and August’s devastating derecho creating astronomical health care expenses, property damage and employment losses.

If you’ve ever watched the sports competition TV show “American Ninja Warrior,” you’ve likely had one of two reactions.