Good morning, Waterloo.

Iowa’s Workforce Development report showed unemployment rose 0.1% to 3.5% in April as 2,000 more Iowans looked for work than in March.

The state added 5,200 jobs and grew its workforce by 5,000 in March (a drop of 7,400 manufacturing jobs led to a net loss of 3,100 roles compared to last year).

Orchard Hill Elementary School hosted its fourth annual Black Light Art Show — showcasing student artwork that glowed under black light to engage local interest.

On Thursday in Hudson, local law enforcement agencies held the annual Black Hawk County Peace Officer Memorial Service to honor 14 officers who lost their lives since 1902—officials like Chief Daniel Banks and former Sheriff Tony Thompson spoke about the sacrifice as participants paused to reflect on their loss.

The Waterloo school board approved a $133.4 million construction contract for its high school after selling $87.7 million in state bonds on Wednesday.

Construction will begin Monday (May 19) as the project moves forward.

Iowa lawmakers ended the 2025 session on Thursday morning at 6:31 a.m.—they passed bills on unemployment taxes, opioid treatment funds and a new family paid leave program, and no meeting is set until January 2026.

Imperial Art Auction

12-4 p.m. — Antique Art of India — No reserves — Discover rare Islamic calligraphy and modern masterpieces in this unique auction event.

Cota Studio Yoga on the Plaza

10:30-11:30 a.m. — River Place Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a rejuvenating yoga class outdoors with Cota Studio.

Spinning Babies® Birth Preparation Class

6-9 p.m. — UnityPoint Health - Allen Hospital — Registration required — Learn practical techniques to support your baby's optimal position for labor.

Battle of the Books Book Club

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — Discuss exciting titles from the 2024-2025 Battle of the Books list with fellow book lovers.

Meals with a Mission: Blueprints Informational Session

12-1 p.m. or 6-7 p.m. — Waverly-Shell Rock Area United Way — Free entry — Discover financial coaching strategies to assist in homeownership and build your credit score.

Coffee and Conversation

2-4 p.m. — Fat Cup Coffee — No entry fee — Enjoy a warm beverage while engaging in delightful conversations with the community.

Damon Mitchell Live

9 PM – 1 AM — Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo — Tickets available — Experience the cosmic cowboy and hippie psychedelia vibes of Nashville's Damon Mitchell.

4th Street Cruise – Cruisin’ Free 43

12-4 p.m. — Main Street Waterloo — Free entry — Experience classic cars and live music while cruising through downtown Waterloo.

BOGO Large Pizzas

All Day — Denalis On The River — Buy one get one 50% off — Enjoy delicious pizzas at a fantastic discount.

Cedar Falls Varsity Softball vs. Waterloo West

5:30-7:15 p.m. — Waterloo West High School — Admission not specified — Enjoy an exciting non-conference softball matchup between the local teams of Cedar Falls and Waterloo West.