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Old MacDonald's Farm in Bever Park is maintained and operated by the Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation Department. Located on the southeast side of Cedar Rapids.

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7 April 2024

Visiting Bever Park in Cedar Rapids

Going to Bever Park with my cousin Bayubahe Sammy on a cold, snowy day was fun. We walked around the park for about 45 minutes. I asked Sammy what he thought about the park. He said, “Bever Park is a cool place to hang out with friends and family. It is fun for kids too.” His answer got me excited to explore more of what Bever Park had to offer.

Bever Park is one of the best parks in the Cedar Rapids community. It is like a peaceful haven where you can relax and have fun. When we were walking along there with my cousin Sammy from path to path, the sunlight was filtering through the strees, and the leaves were going swish-swish in the wind. Also, the birds were tweeting in the trees. Bever Park offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. One highlight of the park is Old MacDonald Farm, which serves as a miniature petting zoo. Here you can wander around the animal yard and interact with various farm animals such as rabbits, chickens, pigs, cattle, goats, and ducks (waterfowl). It is a pleasant experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with nature. In addition to Old McDonald Farm, Bever Park features a public swimming pool where families can have fun. It is best to go there during the sizzling summer months when they open the swimming pool, and this makes it enjoyable for those who like the outdoors. Also, many people come and run to Bever Park with their dog. There are nice spots to sit and study. So, it is a good place for everyone to enjoy. The park is surrounded by quiet streets, hugged by tall trees that sway softly in the breeze. These trees create a peaceful feeling, providing cool shade for people walking.

Reflecting on my experience when I first came to America, I remember going to Bever Park. It was a group from the Catherine McCauley Center (CMC). They were helping us learn English. We went on trips to various places, and one of them was Bever Park. I was with other new refugees, and we had a wonderful time there. We read books, played games, and enjoyed being outdoors. Now, we visit again with my cousin Sammy Bayubahe, who was excited to come along, and we both had a wonderful time. Before, when I went to Bever Park, it was a bit different. They had old playground equipment that they have now removed. But now, when we went with my cousin, we noticed some changes. They took off the old playground and equipment. Now they have a new one.

Bever Park is open for everyone to enjoy, and guess what? It does not cost anything to visit. You can come here for fun, to chill out, or just to explore. However, if you want to take a dip in the swimming pool during the summer, there is a small fee of $5.75. But do not worry, that is not too much, and the price might vary depending on your age and how many people you are swimming with. When it comes to what to wear, there is not a strict dress code to visit Bever Park. You can come dressed however you feel conformable. However, it is always an good idea to dress respectfully. But no matter what you wear, the most important thing is to follow the park rules. Being mindful of these rules helps keep the park safe and enjoyable for everyone. A good thing to bring is a water bottle on a sweltering summer day. We want to stay hydrated, which is one of the most important keys, and it is always an good idea to have a bottle of water with you. In the winter, make sure to bundle up with a jacket and other warm clothing to stay cozy during your visit.

Bever Park is maintained and operated by the Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department. It is on the southeast side of Cedar Rapids. Here is the address 2700 Bever Ave SE, Cedar Rapids. IA 52403. Or you can visit their website at www.cedarrapids.org/residents/parks_and_recreation/old_macdonald_s_farm.php. Old MacDonald’s Farm is open every day starting to May 06, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 6p.m until September 29, 2024. Additionally, did you know that you can schedule a one- hour group tour on the farm? These tours are available by appointment only for all groups, including school groups and daycare. They cost $4 per person and are available weekdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. During the tour, participants get to experience hands- on interactions with the animals.

Bever park is a fantastic place for everyone in Cedar Rapids. Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll, a fun day out with friends and family, or a chance to interact with animals at Old MacDonald’s Farm, Then I will recommend you visit Bever Park because it is free to everyone with its beautiful green spaces, and games. So next time you are looking for a great outdoor destination, be sure to visit Bever Park.

Here pictures I took

Work Cited

Bayubahe, Sammy. Personal interview. 22 March 2024

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Two years chasing at Kirkwood community college 

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I am truly grateful for the warm welcome I've received at Kirkwood Community College. The first semester has been a rewarding journey, and I'm excited to share that I'm thoroughly enjoying my major. Kirkwood is not just a place of education; it feels like a second home where I envision completing my entire academic journey.

I want to express my sincere appreciation to the professors who guided me during my first semester. Their support and dedication made a significant impact, contributing to my success in passing all my classes. I am eager to continue learning and growing at Kirkwood, confident that it will be a fulfilling and transformative experience. Thank you for creating an environment where students like me can thrive and pursue our academic goals.

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I have a deep love for music, being a fan of both hip-hop and gospel. Some of my favorite artists include Drake, Dax, Brett Young, and Maroon 5. During my free time, I often enjoy their songs while doing homework or before going to sleep. Music holds a special place in my heart, and I resonate with the quote, "Life without music does not exist."

As a Christian man, my faith is a significant part of my life. I make it a point to attend church every Sunday. If you ever come looking for me at home in the evenings and find me absent, you can be sure I'll be at church. These moments at Church means a lot to me.

Building connections and making friends is something I love. I believe in inclusivity, not choosing friends based on color. I'm open to talking to anyone, fostering connections, and getting to know people for who they are. This is why I sometimes go by the name "King Umtiti" on social media, embracing a welcoming and open approach.

Another passion of mine is photography and video editing. In my free time, I find joy in capturing moments and creating visual content. During extended breaks from school, I love going to the lake with friends, creating lasting memories and enjoying our time together.

That's a bit about me  thank you.

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Washington high school Vs Xavier high school 

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I really love sports, and soccer is my absolute favorite. I play as a left back defense, and I'm pretty good at it. My heart belongs to FC Barcelona, especially because of players like Messi and Samuel Umtiti. In fact, I'm known as "King Umtiti" because he's a big inspiration to me.

Now, when it comes to basketball, I'm not a star player, but I enjoy trying my best. On the other hand, bowling is a total blast for me. It's not just a game; it's super fun, especially when playing with a team.

So, whether I'm on the soccer field, attempting basketball, or having a good time bowling, sports play a huge role in my life. And if you ever hear "King Umtiti," that's me!

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Starting high school in the U.S. at George Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was a big deal for me. I was there for four years, from the time I was a freshman until I graduated as a senior in May 2023. I want to say a big thank you to God for helping me through it.

When I first came to the U.S., my English wasn't great. I could read, but talking was tough. It's kinda funny—I had to start with the English alphabet! But, you know what? It really helped. My English got better, especially in 11th and 12th grade.

Now, I'm at Kirkwood Community College, pursuing my dreams of becoming an electrician and studying criminal justice. Looking back, it's been a journey from those early days to where I am now. Education has been a big part of changing my story, and I'm excited about what's coming next.

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I'm King Kiruhura, and my story is like a big adventure. It started in Uvira city, DR Congo, where I was born. But life took me to Burundi, and I grew up there as a refugee with my five siblings. We spent 11 years in a camp, facing challenges and learning about life.

Burundi, even though it wasn't where I was born, became like a second home. It's a cool place with lots of fun stuff to do, like sports and activities. I went to school and learned about business, even though I didn't have many choices. My school spoke French, and I finished up to the 10th grade.

Now, I'm in the U.S, and I've been in the U.S. for about four years now. I speak English, Swahili, Kinyarwanda/Kirundi, and a little better French., and I still going to school and trying to learn more. I believe education is the key to a better future. My journey is not just about moving from one place to another; it's about being strong, growing, and combining my roots from both Congo and Burundi.

Two of my sisters now have their own families, and I think about the things I've learned on my unique path. My story is about bringing together different cultures, embracing where I come from, and finding strength in being both Congolese and Burundian.