Good morning, Council Bluffs.

On Wednesday, Congressman Don Bacon sent a letter to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce asking why weather balloon operations were halted and why staffing at the National Weather Service in Omaha was reduced.

He said restoring the balloons is critical for tracking severe weather accurately (a change that local officials say poses a public safety risk).

The U.S.S. Iowa submarine will be commissioned by the US Navy Saturday at 10 a.m. EST in Groton, CT—more than two dozen watch parties in Iowa and about 600 Iowans are expected to join related ceremonies while a live stream carries the event.

25 IA vs NE Battle of the Borders – AA

Tournament — Apr 5-6 — Council Bluffs Recreation Complex — Entry and gate fees apply — Compete in an exciting regional baseball showdown.

Springfest Kite Festival

11 AM – 4 PM — River’s Edge Pavilion — Free entry — Enjoy giant kites, live music, and food trucks at this family-friendly kite festival.

Author Visit with Shelby Van Pelt

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Council Bluffs Public Library — Books for sale — Shelby Van Pelt discusses 'Remarkably Bright Creatures' followed by a Q&A and signing.

JD Souther Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Arts Center at Iowa Western — Tickets required — Experience the celebrated songwriter JD Souther live in concert.

Spring into Giving Scavenger Hunt

3-6 p.m. — Lake Manawa Dream Land Park — Fundraising event — Teams compete in a fun scavenger hunt to support local charities.

Denison-Schleswig vs. Lewis Central Varsity Soccer Match

7:30-9:15 p.m. — Lewis Central High School — Admission varies — Experience an exciting high school soccer conference match with local teams vying for victory.

Music BINGO Game Night

6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Wild Wings — Free to play — Enjoy a twist on bingo with music clips and fun prizes.

Millard North Boys JV Soccer Match

6:30-8:15 p.m. — Lewis Central High School — Free entry — Watch the Lewis Central varsity team challenge Skutt Catholic in a thrilling non-conference soccer match.

Ultimate Convenience at Council Bluffs

8 AM - 6 PM — Lazydays RV of Omaha at Council Bluffs — Free lunch and giveaways — Experience unbeatable RV deals and community vibes with free perks and special offers.

Dorothy VIP Experience

1-11:30 p.m. — Stir Cove — Ticket required for access — Enjoy an exclusive VIP meet and greet with Dorothy including photo opportunities and more.