Good morning, Waterloo.

Heartland Bank and Trust Co. with its Waterloo branch at 4020 Bankers Blvd and CNB will merge in a deal valued at more than $170M+ the merger is expected to expand local financial services.

Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center is marking its 25th season with refreshed lobbies, improved seating and a new Marquee Lounge for gathering before shows — the venue also now features enhanced accessibility for patrons.

UNI students will host Halloween-themed science demonstrations for elementary-aged children using hands-on activities—costumes are encouraged for a more interactive experience.

Waterloo is building a new United High School and work on the performing arts center is underway—precast structures will be ready in about two months.

The athletic and classroom wings will finish in May 2027—while the full project will complete in May 2028 so the school can open for the 2028-2029 school year.

Low-income families in eastern Iowa face heating bill uncertainty amid the ongoing federal shutdown as LIHEAP applications opened for seniors and people with disabilities on Oct 1st and will open for other groups on Nov 1st — local community action agencies are working with national partners to monitor funding changes.

Today, Waterloo high school celebrated its new sports team image as the Titans—marking a fresh start for its athletics.

The school still faces challenges and will address them tomorrow.

Altered Reality Book Club

5:30-7:00 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow speculative fiction fans over this month's book choice.

Jason Christensen Concert

8-10 p.m. — Octopus — $10 — Experience the musical prowess of one of Iowa's finest guitarists at the Octopus bar.

Fabulous Trutones Album Release Party

8-10 p.m. — Octopus — $10 — Celebrate the launch of The Fabulous Trutones' new album at their exciting release party.

Reformation Sunday Worship

10:00 a.m. — 1122 W 11th St, Waterloo, IA — Free entry — Celebrate Reformation Sunday in your best red attire.

Shop the Basement Book Sale

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Low-cost books — Explore a treasure trove of literature while supporting local programs.

PMP Certification Classroom Training

9 AM – 5 PM — Waterloo WorkSpace — $1599 — Gain essential project management skills with this comprehensive PMP certification course featuring expert instruction and real-world applications.

Trick or Treat! Fright Night at the Phelps Youth Pavilion

5:30-8 p.m. — Waterloo Center for the Arts — Members: $5, Non-members: $10 — Wear your costumes for a night of riddle-solving, crafts, and prizes.

Artist Reception: Turtle Wisdom by Betty LaDuke

5:30-7 p.m. — Waterloo Center for the Arts — Free admission — Explore unique wood panels inspired by global travels and themes of love and resilience.

Trunk or Treat at St. Ansgar Church

6-8 p.m. — St. Ansgar Church — Free entry — Enjoy a spooky evening filled with fun as we hand out candy to all the ghosts and goblins in our community.

Family Storytime

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — Gather for storytelling fun every Saturday suitable for all ages.