Good morning, Cedar Falls.

Black Hawk County, Cedar Falls, and Waterloo launched a Community Challenge for the Northeast Iowa Food Bank as food insecurity rose in the area—pledging $100,000 and urging local groups and residents to donate.

Local food pantries saw a big spike in demand after SNAP benefits were delayed during the recent government shutdown.

Grout Historic Houses will hold its 'Christmas at Russell Square' fundraiser on Dec.

6—where visitors can tour the fully decorated Rensselaer Russel House Museum and Snowden House—and help raise funds for historic upkeep.

The Bremer Avenue Bridge in Cedar Falls will open for traffic at the end of November 26th—two days ahead of schedule, and officials have not yet confirmed if the sidewalks will open for pedestrians.

MercyOne Cedar Falls marked its 500th robotic surgery as surgeons Christopher Eagan, D.O. and Jason Stanford, D.O. used robotic technology to help patients regain mobility in less than two years—an achievement that shows the hospital's growth in advanced care.

Three Cedar Falls volleyball players were named to the IGCA All-State Teams in 5A with Brynn Bakula on the First Team, Anni Wedgebury on the Second, and Kennedy Kreklow on the Third.

Additional area players in 2A and 1A received honors, and Denver’s Jamie Johnson was named Coach of the Year while Channing Johnson earned Elite-Team selection.

Waverly-Shell Rock girls wrestling held their season opener Tuesday night—hosting Decorah and Ankeny at the Go-Hawk Gym where matches began at 5:00.

Area volleyball players were named to the Iowa Girls Coaches Association All-State Teams, with top honors going to Denver athletes on the Elite and 1st teams and recognitions on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th teams for players from surrounding schools.

Denver coach Jamie Johnson was named the Class 2A Coach of the Year + local players from Wapsie Valley, Janesville, and Dunkerton also earned state honors.

Illinois State Redbirds vs. Northern Iowa Panthers Women's Basketball

2-5 p.m. — McLeod Center — Affordable tickets available — Enjoy an exciting college women's basketball showdown in Cedar Falls.

Candy Cane Course - Cedar Falls

9 AM – 1 PM — Blain's Farm & Fleet — Registration fee applies — Enjoy a festive 5k/12k run with great swag and family fun.

Dolly Parton's Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol

7-8:30 p.m. — Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a heartwarming musical adaptation of the classic holiday tale with Dolly Parton's enchanting songs.

A Bel Canto Christmas

2-5 p.m. — Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center — Celebrate the spirit of the season with wonderful music performed by community choirs.