Good morning, Council Bluffs.

A local man won a life-changing $1.2 million jackpot after hitting a royal flush on Ultimate Texas Hold'em at Horseshoe Casino on Feb.

7. He has been a loyal member for 30 years and is the first million-dollar winner in Iowa's multi-casino progressive jackpot.

Local restaurant owner Bill Baburek said he received his final delivery from Omaha Steaks as the company ends its food service distribution & shifts to a direct-to-consumer model.

Baburek now faces supply shortages and quality concerns ahead of St. Patrick’s Day.

Christy Creme, the long-running ice cream and burger joint in Council Bluffs, will open at 10 a.m. Friday for its 72nd year, offering its signature treats and flavors to loyal customers.

A public health advocacy coalition is urging Iowa legislators to raise cigarette taxes by $1.50 per pack and extend similar taxes to vapes (a move intended to reduce tobacco use).

The proposal now awaits review by lawmakers.

Chef Ben Maides of Au Courant in Benson is set to compete in the Food Bank for the Heartland’s Celebrity Chef 2026 and will showcase his culinary journey by highlighting local produce through weekly menu changes to support Nebraska’s farmers.

He aims to bring unique dishes to the competition.

Teens and adults with vision loss enjoyed adaptive skiing and snowboarding at Crescent Hill at Hitchcock on Sunday.

The event (designed to highlight accessible winter sports) provided tailored support to help participants experience the slopes.

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.

Burning Blue Live Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Dock Bar & Grill — $5 Cover — Rock out to nostalgic 90s and 2000s anthems alongside original music from Burning Blue.

Redline Championships Midwest Classic 2026

3:00 AM – 2:59 AM — Mid-America Center — In-person event — Cheerleading competition offering championship bids in the heart of Council Bluffs.

Time to Paddy 5k/10k & Lucky 13.1

8-11 a.m. — Miller's Landing — Check website for registration fees — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a family-friendly themed run featuring great swag and community spirit.