Good morning, Council Bluffs.

The Pottawattamie Tourism Committee outlined its 2025 highlights and 2026 plans at a Board meeting on January 29, noting a $20,000 Iowa Tourism Grant for a winter campaign at Crescent Hill at Hitchcock from Jan.

2 through Feb. 28 — it added that WattaWay.com engagement drives local outdoor recreation.

Habitat for Humanity confirmed Thursday that the Council Bluffs ReStore remains locally owned and is not being sold.

The nonprofit said it will keep running the store for local customers.

Council Bluffs police credited their Homeless Outreach Program, which began in 2024, with cutting service calls by 30% between 2024 and 2025.

The program builds trust by connecting residents to resources (such as VA benefits) while addressing safety when needed.

The Wall That Heals exhibit (at Lewis Central High School) will honor local Vietnam veterans who returned home and later died during Memorial Day weekend; families can submit a free application with the veteran's DD214, death certificate, and two photos to join the In Memory Honor Roll.

On Thursday morning, an ambulance was hit by a pickup near 31st Street and Avenue A as it rushed to an emergency call; first responders were unharmed and officials confirmed the new ambulance will be repaired under warranty while another unit responded to the call.

Thirty-six MidAmerican Energy workers are returning to Iowa after nearly a week assisting in recovery from a winter storm in west central Louisiana (the crews faced some of the worst driving conditions).

They will take a day or two off before resuming work on Iowa’s electrical infrastructure.

Google has granted $100,000 to Council Bluffs Community School District for high-impact STEM projects at its high schools.

The funding aims to boost science and technology learning across the district + support enhanced curriculum.

Iowa Legislature is debating a bill that would let community colleges offer four-year degrees (including Iowa Western Community College), a move that could expand educational options for local students.

Bertrand Museum is hosting a program on Saturday to explain the history of Dr. J.

Hostetter’s Stomach Bitters and the work rehousing over 2,000 bottles (led by curatorial staff and volunteers). This event offers community members a chance to learn about preserving our local heritage.

At Metropolitan Community College’s Prototype Design Lab on the Fort Omaha campus, local creators from students to inventors turn ideas into finished products with professional-grade tools (including 3D printers and laser cutters).

The facility offers affordable access and on-site guidance to speed up prototyping.

Connections Area Agency on Aging Announces “Steak Your Claim” Raffle

Connections Area Agency on Aging is excited to announce the launch of its Steak Your Claim Raffle, offering the chance to win ¼ of locally sourced beef—complete with processing at a local meat locker—valued at over $1,500. This opportunity is made possible thanks to the generosity of several community donors.

Adult Board Game Night

6:00-8:45 p.m. — Council Bluffs Public Library — Free entry — Come play new and classic board and card games with fellow enthusiasts.

The Choir of Man

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Arts Center at Iowa Western — Ticketed event — Experience a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and community at this award-nominated production.

Saturday Craft: Stained Glass Frames

2-3:30 p.m. — Council Bluffs Public Library — Registration required — Create beautiful faux stained glass frames to enhance your space.