Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 9th of December.
Good morning, Waterloo.
🏘️ Community
The Otto Schoitz Foundation awarded over $1 million in fall grants to 22 local organizations focused on youth development and crisis intervention — supporting community needs in Waterloo.
The Salvation Army (Waterloo/Cedar Falls) held its annual Mayoral Battle of the Bells on Saturday and raised $3,455.43 for its Red Kettle campaign with funds from local leaders.
The campaign runs through Dec. 24 and still seeks volunteers.
La Porte City's annual Hickory Hills Holiday Lights Show, now in its sixth year, opened last weekend and will run from 6 to 9 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays for the next two weekends + tickets cost $10 with proceeds supporting local conservation efforts.
🎓 Education
Waterloo School District released an audit showing spending exceeded revenue by $6.8M in 2025 and presented a three-year plan to cut the budget by $20M aiming for balance by 2027-2028.
The district may reduce staff next year to manage rising costs while keeping student needs a priority.
🏥 Health
UnityPoint Health–Allen Hospital has expanded its heart care services with a third catheterization lab to better treat heart disease — the leading cause of death in Iowa.
📰 Lifestyle
Cedar Bend Humane Society has highlighted Clementine, a friendly six-month-old puppy rescued as a stray and now training in kennel and potty skills.
Animals looking to meet the curious puppy (Pet of the Week) can contact the shelter today.
🏈 Sports
Today, the Iowa Woo announced the unexpected passing of defensive end Jaylon Abdul-Karim (known as AK), a key player during the season.
The team asks the community to keep his family in their thoughts as they honor his positive impact on the sport.
🎉 Waterloo Events
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Tech Help Drop-In
11 AM – 12 PM — Waterloo Public Library — Free assistance — Get tech advice and support for your devices from library staff.
Breastfeeding Class
6:30-8:30 p.m. — UnityPoint Health - Allen Hospital — Free entry — Learn essential breastfeeding techniques from a certified lactation consultant for successful nursing.
Benny Gambaiani Chair Yoga
1:30-2:30 p.m. — Benny Gambaiani Public Library — Free entry — Engage in accessible chair yoga aimed at improving flexibility and balance for all abilities.
Holy Darkness Retreat
3-9 p.m. — Trinity Episcopal Parish — $10 — Engage in stillness and reflection during a Quiet Day retreat welcoming holy darkness.
A Bel Canto Christmas
2-4:30 p.m. — Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center — Celebrate the spirit of the season with uplifting holiday music performed by local vocal ensembles.
Teen Anime & Manga Club
4-5 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — Discuss your favorite anime and manga series while enjoying snacks from a monthly subscription.
Computer Basics Class for Adults
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Registration required — Engage in a Q&A style class covering computer basics like interfacing, Windows, files, apps, and email.
Terrific Twos Storytime
10:30-11:00 a.m. — Waterloo Public Library — Free entry — A delightful storytime session for two-year-olds and their caregivers.
Tripoli Varsity Basketball Game vs. Charles City
7:45-9 p.m. — Tripoli Middle/High School — Admission details not specified — Witness an exciting non-conference high school basketball matchup.
Kevin Burt Live Performance
7-10 p.m. — Leo's Generations Lounge — No Cover — Experience award-winning blues music by Kevin Burt at a local favorite spot.
🏠 Waterloo Real Estate
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📣 Waterloo Announcements
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