Good morning, Waterloo.

The Northeast Iowa Food Bank announced it will provide free and healthy meals to children this summer—helping families across the region receive nutritious food.

Cannonball Day will take place this Saturday at East Park.

Tickets for the barbecue chicken dinner are available from River City Morning Kiwanis members or at Hy-Vee customer service.

Two structural engineers offered theories on what caused the initial collapse of the Waterloo Candy Co. wall; they cited possible design flaws or material fatigue (further tests are planned).

Austin Hansen, a 39-year-old methamphetamine dealer from Reinbeck, was sentenced to federal prison for the second time after working with a California source to distribute drugs shipped via local post offices — including those in Waterloo — and he faces up to 20 years behind bars.

A new state law now lets Iowans set off fireworks on the 3rd and 4th of July as well as New Year's Eve—local cities cannot block fireworks from private properties, and tent owners expect more sales while families plan larger displays.

The law aims to boost celebrations as the nation marks its 250th birthday.

The City of Waterloo Mayor will host an annual fireworks celebration on July 5 from 6 to 10:30 p.m.—fireworks will launch at 9:30 p.m. to mark the event.

Coach Brian Cook was fired after a contract review meeting with the Waterloo Youth Hockey Association board despite leading his team to a national championship—he said he was unfairly targeted for issues like missing practices and a safe sport violation—and he has hired legal counsel while nearly 300 parents signed a petition to reinstate him. The dismissal and ensuing support now raise questions about the board’s actions and the team’s future.

Marshalltown Varsity Baseball vs. Waterloo East

5-6:45 p.m. — Waterloo East High School — Free entry — Watch an exciting home conference matchup between two local varsity baseball teams.

V Baseball Tournament at Waterloo Bucks

2-8 p.m. — Waterloo Riverfront Stadium — Admission varies — Cheer on the local teams in a thrilling baseball face-off against Central Lee.

Radiance Reset Retreat

8:30-11 a.m. — Panache Tea Boutique — Cost varies — Experience energy healing and sound therapy with a nourishing wellness brunch.

Level-Up at Ninja U

5-6 p.m. — Ninja U Training Gym — Free entry — Level up your ninja skills with exciting obstacle exploration and movement fun.

Cedar Falls Municipal Band Concert

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Overman Park — Free entry — Enjoy a night of music from one of Iowa’s distinguished concert bands in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Friends Memory Café

10-11 a.m. — Hartman Reserve Nature Center — Free entry — Enjoy refreshments and nature-related activities at a supportive gathering for those living with dementia and their caregivers.

Coffee and Conversation

2-4 p.m. — Fat Cup Coffee — Free entry — Enjoy engaging discussions over a warm cup of coffee in Waterloo.

Red White & Boom Weekend

All-day — Waterloo / Lost Island KOA Resort — Cost details available upon reservation — Celebrate Independence Day with festive activities and relaxation in nature.

B2wins: Goodbye Iowa Fireworks Celebration

7-9 p.m. — RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate the 4th of July with live music, food, fun, and an explosive fireworks display.

Waterloo Bucks vs La Crosse Loggers

3:35-5:05 p.m. — Waterloo Riverfront Stadium — Ticket purchase supports a cause — Witness a thrilling baseball matchup between two local teams.