Good morning, Waterloo.

A Waterloo police officer and a firefighter were honored for their service at an Exchange Club dinner.

The mayor (saying they are a cut above the rest) praised their dedication to local community safety.

Cedar Valley United Way announced at its Breakfast of Champions event this morning in Cedar Falls that over $2 million was raised to support local education, financial stability and basic needs.

Local businesses, volunteers and community leaders celebrated this milestone (award recipients were honored for full employee participation).

Campgrounds at Black Hawk County parks are open for spring camping on a first-come, first-served basis - some amenities like water and showers may not be available yet.

Allen Child Protection Center is hosting several child abuse prevention events this April to educate and support local families+ the center will provide important resources to help protect children.

A fire at a Waterloo apartment building was contained thanks to its exterior sprinkler system + the building code has required such systems for complexes with stacked porches since 2009.

The largest box plant in the United States will open later in 2026 in Waterloo, creating at least 65 new jobs + expanding its workforce to about 190 employees.

New employment postings for North Iowa job seekers are online today, offering a variety of career opportunities in our area.

Construction has begun on a new high school for the future Waterloo United Titans next to Central Middle School, and work will continue until 2028.

Waterloo’s yard waste and compost site is open for the season and accepts brush, sticks, grass clippings, and leaves (branches must be no larger than 2 1/2 inches in diameter and no longer than 3 1/2 feet).

Crossroads Mall, a local staple since the 1970s, is being demolished with Dillard's as the first store removed.

The site will be redeveloped as The Blvd to offer new retail options for local shoppers.

Kyle Green became the new head men's basketball coach at UNI after a 30-year career, signing a five-year contract as announced yesterday by UNI President Mark Nook and Athletic Director Megan Franklin in Cedar Falls (a press conference will be scheduled later).

First Friday Flick

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — Catch a new release or classic film with free popcorn and soda.

Brunch with the Easter Bunny

9-11 a.m. — SingleSpeed Brewing Co. — $19 for Adults, $8 for Children (3-12 years) — Celebrate Easter with all-you-can-eat breakfast, crafts, and pictures with the Easter Bunny.

Shop the Basement!

10 AM – 1 PM — Waterloo Public Library — Friends Used Book Store Prices — Explore the basement stocked with books and support library programs.

Arabic Calligraphy Workshop for Beginners

5:30-7 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free materials provided — Discover the beauty of Arabic calligraphy and learn foundational skills in this engaging workshop.

Teen Writers Workshop

4-5:30 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — A creative space for teen writers to share ideas and work on prompts.

PIPAC’s Spring Summit

8:30 AM – 5:00 PM — Bien Venu Event Center — Registration fee required — Dive into industry insights and innovations in health and life insurance.

Teen Journaling Club

3:30-5:00 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Registration required — A creative and relaxing space for teens to explore journaling and self-expression.

EDM Showcase

8-11 p.m. — Octopus — $10 — Experience a vibrant night of EDM music with local talent.

Black Hawk Gem & Mineral Show

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. — Waterloo Center for the Arts — $Varies — Discover stunning gems and minerals at this vibrant local showcase.

Shop the Basement Book Sale

10 AM – 1 PM — Waterloo Public Library — Friends Used Book Store Prices — Browse an array of books while supporting library programs and events.