Currents 2024 Summer - October, November, December
Pickleball Complex Expansion Complete
The Orchard Hill Pickleball Court Expansion Project is a partnership between the City and the Cedar Falls Pickleball Club. It was planned and developed over the course of the last two years. The upgrades include a new shelter, eight additional pickleball courts, and parking lot/entrance to the current park. The new courts are now open for play in Cedar Falls!
With the huge growth of pickleball and our very active pickleball club, improved amenities are important to our quality of life. The parking lot is now hard surfaced and includes more parking stalls, including accessible stalls. This is a huge improvement from the previous parking lot which was much smaller, with no structured parking. We also widened the entrance, adding curbs to delineate and gain easier access to the park. It includes a sidewalk for safe pedestrian access to the park. The last great component to the parking lot work, is a detention basin to aid in watershed runoff during rain events. This basin will be able to store the 100-year rainfall event with additional capacity beyond that, while releasing the stormwater at the former two-year release rate. Eight new pickleball courts are complete, west of the existing courts. Between the two court areas a new shelter and concrete pad is in place. This creates a 16-court pickleball complex. The new courts are fenced with a permanent windscreen on the north. On the west side of the new courts, closest to the park’s neighbors, a noise dampening blanket called AcoustiBlok was installed. This product greatly reduces the amount of sound coming from pickleball play. A number of spruce trees will be planted—creating a live fence—this fall.
Also this fall, several final aspects of the project will be completed: sidewalk connections, final grading/seeding, and landscaping.
Come out with the family or friends and give pickleball a try! Be on the lookout through the Rec Center for City pickleball leagues available in the spring, summer, and fall, or indoors at the Rec Center in the winter. If you are a beginner wanting to learn the basics, the Pickleball Club offers a “Pickleball 101” class to help teach the basics of the game.
New Parks Master Plan! Watch for Signs!
Kickoff of the planning effort for the City’s Parks Master Plan is anticipated in October. The public will be invited to provide input for the plan. Stay tuned for updates this fall by visiting www.cedarfalls.com/ parksplan, or follow the City of Cedar Falls on Facebook @citycf.
To receive emails or texts about upcoming meetings, events, or surveys about the Parks Plan, sign up at www.cedarfalls.com/notifyme. Pop up engagement is anticipated, so if you see a “Your City, Your Parks” sign at an event, come talk to us.
Upcoming Historic Survey of Overman Park Neighborhood
The City of Cedar Falls Historic Preservation Commission was recently awarded a Certified Local Government Grant from the Iowa State Preservation Office to complete a reconnaissancelevel survey of potential historic resources in the Overman Park neighborhood. With assistance from a historic preservation consultant, the Commission, along with student volunteers from the UNI History Department, will complete this work beginning October 2024. This will be a visual, street-side survey of the properties; no access to property will be necessary. Additional information will be gathered from historic records.
The survey area includes approximately 465 properties in the Overman Park Neighborhood. The project boundary covers an area not previously surveyed, and is located directly west of the Cedar Falls Downtown Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Historic Preservation Commission will share the results with the community at a public meeting next spring. For questions, please email planning@cedarfalls.com.
Implementing the College Hill Vision Plan— Next Step…Zoning Updates
Later this fall, the City will work with a consultant team to begin discussions with businesses, residents, landlords, College Hill Partnership, UNI officials, and other interested parties about zoning changes to further the goals of the Imagine College Hill Vision Plan, which was adopted in 2021 and re-affirmed by City Council in 2024.
The focus of this initial zoning update effort is on the business district along College Street, known fondly as “The Hill,” and on the residential areas closest to the business district and UNI campus. How can we make it easier to develop or update properties to enhance the business district to serve residents and UNI students? What are the barriers to redevelopment?
Secondly, the City wants to hear from stakeholders about experience completing development projects or home renovations within the area designated as the College Hill Neighborhood Overlay District, which includes the lower density residential neighborhoods beyond the core business and multi-family areas. Does the Overlay District need to be updated? What is working and what is not? The goal is to create rules and a process that is easy to follow and achieves what the community envisions for residential neighborhoods in the College Hill area. We encourage everyone interested in the future of College Hill to provide input. To sign up for notifications of upcoming meetings and events, click the box for “Our Cedar Falls—Imagine College Hill” at www.cedarfalls.com/notifyme
To view the adopted Imagine College Hill Vision Plan, visit the project webpage at www.cedarfalls.com/collegehill
Poultry Licensing
Poultry are allowed in Cedar Falls, which include female domesticated chicken, turkey, goose, duck, quail, dove, pheasant, or pigeon. A license is required, as well as a land use permit for the location of the coop and run.
Poultry are required to be licensed annually by January 1.
Each Poultry
$6 (Limit 10 female poultry only)
Land Use Permit—City ordinance specifies the location for the coop and run for poultry. This is verified through obtaining a land use permit. For questions, please contact the Planning Division at 319-273-8600.
If it wags it needs a tag!
Current pet licenses expire on December 31. If your pet is four months or older they are required to be licensed annually by January 1. Please don’t be late, the fees for licensing your pet doubles effective April 1.
When registering your pet, please provide proof of rabies vaccination (with rabies tag number and expiration date) and proof of spay or neuter from your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can fax a copy of the current rabies certificate and proof of alteration to 319-268-5126. If you no longer have your pet(s), would like to receive your tags by mail, or have questions please contact 319-273-8600. Visit www.cf1stop.com to license your dog or cat online.
Fees: Dogs & Cats Not Altered $12 ($24 effective April 1)
Dog & Cats Altered $6 ($12 effective April 1)
Lost Tag Replacement $1 each tag/license Mailing Fee $1 each tag/license
Do you have a dog who loves to run and be social, but a yard that doesn’t let them? Visit the Cedar Falls Paw Park! The park is located on South Main Street just south of the Highway 58 overpass. The 3-acre, fenced-in park bodes hilly terrain, waste bags and disposal unit, and a doggie drinking fountain (during warm weather months). It even has a picnic shelter with tables, restrooms, and a parking lot for pet owners. Annual passes are $15/dog and valid from January 1–December 31. Dogs residing in Cedar Falls must be registered with the city to purchase a pass. What a great way for your k-9 to get off-leash exercise and socialize with other dogs!
For more info. on pet licenses or Paw Park passes, visit City Hall (220 Clay Street) or call 319-273-8600.
Council Meetings are held the first and third Mondays of the month at 7 pm. Meetings ta k e place in the Council Chambers at 220 Clay S treet, inside City H all.
Danny Laudick—
Cedar Falls Mayor
319-243-5632
danny.laudick@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2026
Gil Schultz
Ward 1 Council Member
319-268-1402
gil.schultz@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2026
Chris Latta
Ward 2 Council Member
319-404-1496
chris.latta@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2028
Daryl Kruse
Ward 3 Council Member
319-277-1100
kruseoncouncil@aol.com
Term ends 1/2/2026
View City Council Meetings online at www.cedarfalls.com/meetingvideo. Other public meetings are also available online.
Mayor's Revision
Aaron Hawbaker
Ward 4 Council Member
319-455-6540
aaron.hawbaker@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2028
Dustin Ganfield
Ward 5 Council Member
319-553-6899
dustin.ganfield@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2026
Kelly Dunn
At-Large Council Member
319-215-6891
kelly.dunn@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2026
Hannah Crisman
At-Large Council Member
319-231-4283
hannah.crisman@cedarfalls.com
Term ends 1/2/2028
Keep up with Cedar Falls!
Follow along to stay updated on City news, events, and recreational and arts programming.
Facebook
Cedar Falls, Iowa, City Government @citycf
Hearst Center for the Arts @hearstcenter
Cedar Falls Rec @cedarfallsrecreation
The Falls Aquatic Center @TheFallsAquaticCenter
Cedar Falls Public Library @cedarfallspubliclibrary
Cedar Falls Tourism @CedarFallsIA
Cedar Falls Public Safety @CFPublicSafety
City of Cedar Falls @CityCF
Cedar Falls Tourism @CedarFalls
CF Rec & The Falls @cfrec
Instagram
City of Cedar Falls @cedar_falls_iowa
CF Rec Center @cfrec
Cedar Falls Public Safety @cedar_falls_public_safety
Cedar Falls Tourism @cedarfallsia
Cedar Falls Public Library @cflibrary
Hearst Center for the Arts @the.hearst
City of Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls Tourism
Subscribe on
City of Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls Public Safety
Welcome Back Panthers
Cedar Falls Police would like to welcome UNI students back to our community. This is an exciting time of year! As you get settled into your new home, develop lifelong friendships, and explore the community, we would like to take the opportunity to ask for your help in deterring crimes of opportunity—situations where we make it easy for criminals to take advantage of us. This includes unlocked or running vehicles, garage and house doors left open or unlocked, and leaving personal belongings unattended in a public place. Community participation in crime prevention is a necessity. We ask for your help by removing valuables from and securing vehicles, checking doors and windows before leaving the home or going to bed, and keeping track of your personal belongings. Together, we can prevent crimes of opportunity!
Smoke Detectors
Imagine you and your family are fast asleep at 2:00 in the morning, when you wake to the smoke alarm sounding and the smell of smoke. What will your family do? If you and your family don’t have a plan in place, it could jeopardize your safety or even prove deadly.
In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from when the smoke alarm sounds. That’s why home escape planning is so critical in a fire situation. It ensures everyone in the household knows how to use the small window of time wisely.
Developing and practicing a home escape plan is like building muscle memory. That pre-planning is what everyone will draw upon to jump into action and escape as quickly as possible in the event of a fire.
Fire Prevention Week is October 6–12, 2024. The theme is “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You!” The theme is designed to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
In support of Fire Prevention Week, Cedar Falls Public Safety encourages every family to check their detectors to ensure they work correctly. Every home should have working smoke alarms on every level, in every bedroom, and near all sleeping areas. Detectors should be checked monthly and replaced when they are 10 years old or stop working.
Cedar Falls Public Safety hosts a Fire Prevention Open House on October 8, 2024, from 4:30–7:00 pm. The open house provides an opportunity to meet Public Safety staff, and see fire trucks and equipment. There will also be a chance for kids to spray a fire hose.
Campus Fire Safety
Sending someone off to college and their first experience living away from home? We have some tips for you and your student:
• Look for fully sprinklered housing when choosing a dorm or off-campus housing.
• Make sure you can hear the building alarm system when in your dorm room.
• If you smoke, smoke outside and only where it is permitted. Use sturdy, deep, non-tip ashtrays. Don’t smoke in bed or when you have been drinking or feel drowsy.
• If you live in a dorm, make sure your sleeping room has a smoke alarm. Your dorm suite should have a smoke alarm in each living area, as well as the sleeping room. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the dorm suite should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.
• If you live in an apartment or house, make sure smoke alarms are installed in each sleeping room, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the apartment unit or house. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the apartment unit or house should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least monthly.
• Never remove batteries or disable the alarm.
• Learn your building’s evacuation plan. Practice all drills as if they were the real thing.
• If you live off campus, have a fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.
• When a smoke alarm or fire alarm sounds, get out of the building quickly and stay out.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking. Cook only when you are alert (not sleepy or drowsy from medicine or alcohol).
• Check your school’s rules before using electrical appliances in your room.
FACTS:
Fires in dorms are more common between 5–11 pm and on weekends. Roughly six out of seven fires in dorms are started by cooking.
Cedar Falls Hope and Honor 9/11 5K
In remembrance of the events of September 11, 2001, and in recognition of the sacrifice of 9/11 first responders, the City hosted the Cedar Falls Hope and Honor 9/11 5K the morning of Wednesday, September 11, 2024. The event was held on the Cedar Prairie Trail by South Main Street, next to the Scott Sterrett memorial 5K markers. Scott was a Cedar Falls Reserve Officer who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in 2018.
In lieu of an entry fee, participants were asked to help give back to the community by bringing two non-perishable food items that were donated to the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. Participants were also invited to take part in the 5K wearing gear such as weighted vests to simulate what the 9/11 first responders endured that day. The event
What’s the Purpose of Code Enforcement
Cedar Falls adopted regulations on nuisances to work to ensure property is maintained, and neighbors and the community can enjoy where they live. Ultimately one neighbor’s enjoyment, safety, and property values should not be diminished by another neighbor. Therefore, the City of Cedar Falls has two code enforcement officers whose primary task is to enforce the nuisances identified in Chapter 15 of the City Code.
Enforcement takes two different avenues: reactive and proactive. Reactive is when the code enforcement officer responds to a citizen complaint. Complaints can be submitted by phone, email, or online through our website at www.cedarfalls.com/486/Code-enforcement
When a complaint is received, we investigate the concern and notify the property owner if a violation is found. When we respond to a complaint, we look at the entire property for any potential violations as well as adjacent properties. This ensures fair enforcement and is part of our proactive enforcement. Another part of proactive code enforcement is zone inspections. The city is divided into zones and over several months we walk the zone to observe each property. Depending on the severity of the violation we will either leave a simple reminder on the door, send a courtesy letter, or send a violation notice.
What do code enforcement officers look at? Well, there are a wide range of items but some of the most common issues are:
• Yard maintenance—Grass and weeds must be less than 8" high. But we also look at overgrowth and excess weeds.
• Items in the right of way—Public Works will pick up bulk items if requested in advance on your regular trash day. However, we often find items left on the curb that weren’t called in and are there for multiple days.
• Snow removal—48 hours after a snow event, snow must be removed from the public sidewalk. The property adjacent to the sidewalk is responsible for the removal, including corners.
• Property maintenance—Is the paint peeling and falling off? Is the fence damaged? Are there broken windows? Are the roof and gutters in good shape?
included informational booths for veterans, first responders, and their families from healthcare and veteran organizations including Black Hawk County Veterans Affairs, UNI Military and Veteran Student Services, AMVETS Post 49, UnityPoint Health Black Hawk-Grundy Mental Health Center, UnityPoint Health – Allen Mental Health Walk-in Clinic, Cedar Valley Hospice, Retrieving Freedom, Inc., and Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI). CODE 4 Public Safety Emblems, LLC., donated medals for the first 100 finishers of the 5K. Free will donations were collected at the refreshment table for Retrieving Freedom, a local nonprofit organization that trains specialized service dogs for veterans and children with autism.
Public safety agencies, veterans, first responders, and citizens from around Iowa were invited to attend with Cedar Falls Mayor Danny Laudick providing welcoming remarks to start the event. The Cedar Falls Honor Guard also hosted a moment of silence in remembrance of all those who lost their lives and loved ones on September 11, 2001.
“The sacrifice of 9/11 first responders remains within our hearts, and it was incredible to see the community come together to honor those brave individuals,” said City Communications Specialist Amanda Huisman. “The goal of the 5K was not only to recognize their dedication, but to provide hope for the future which is why it was important to have the informational resources provided by healthcare and veterans organizations. It was also a wonderful opportunity to get people involved in giving back by uniting with the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. We truly thank our volunteers and the partnering organizations that helped make this event possible.”
• Exterior storage—Items for interior use cannot be stored outside. For a more detailed list see ordinance section 15-2(22).
• Sump pump and downspout outlets located less than 10'-0" from a property line.
• Parking on grass—Cars and other motor vehicles must be parked on a paved surface whether that be the driveway or the street.
• Dead or dangerous trees.
• Refuse containers out for extended period—These should only be left out from 6 pm the night before your trash day, and removed from the curb by 8pm on your trash day.
• Signs in the right of way—Yard signs, whether for a garage sale, supporting a school team, or political are not allowed in the right of way.
If you have a concern or would like more information, please contact our code enforcement officers at 319-268-5161.
Expired Permits
Did you receive one of these stickers on your door?
This sticker is in reference to an expired permit. Building permits expire after one year. If a permit is expired, we attempt to contact the permit holder to inspect and close it. If we are unsuccessful in contacting the permit holder, we will leave this sticker on the door where the work occurred. It is important to inspect the work for compliance. We believe contractors have the homeowner’s best interest in mind and intend to complete the work in a safe manner. However, mistakes can be made and we want to be an additional set of eyes to confirm the home is safe for its occupants. If a permit has expired that means the work was never inspected. We feel it is the owner’s right to know they have uninspected work when the permitte can’t be reached.
What should you do if find a sticker on your door? If you have a good relationship with your contractor, we recommend reaching out to them first. If you are unable to reach out to them we would like you to call 319-268-5161 to schedule an inspection.
515 Main Street (Farmers State Bank bldg.—By appointment)
PO Box 546, Cedar Falls, IA
Phone: 319-243-9170
Website: cf-communityfoundation.org
Email: director@cf-communityfoundation.org
Facebook: CedarFallsCommunityFoundation
2024 Grants Awarded
The Cedar Falls Community Foundation has awarded $84,500 in grants to organizations across Cedar Falls! These grants are made possible by the CFCF Children and Families Fund, Diamond Arts and History Fund, and the Rownd Trust. Grants totaling $65,000 were given out from the Rownd Trust. The Cedar River Recreational Project will receive $50,000 paid out over four years to support enhancements along the Cedar River. $10,000 was granted to the Cedar Falls Rotary Club for the 100th Anniversary Rotary Club Plaza honoring essential workers during the pandemic. The Cedar Falls Woman’s Club will receive $5,000 for new HVAC for their kitchen.
Grants from the Children and Families Fund totaled $15,000. Community United Childcare Centers-Valley Park will receive $3,500 to repair the front sidewalk of their facility. Lora’s Child Care will receive $3,000 to help pay for new flooring and equipment. St. John’s Preschool and Childcare Center will receive $3,000 to purchase a new industrial sized refrigerator. Prairie Rose Montessori School, LLC will receive $3,000 to put towards the cost of making their new building ADA compliant through adding a ramp and creating an ADA compliant restroom. Immanuel Lutheran Preschool will receive $1,000 to help with the cost of renovations to their classrooms to add wrap around childcare to their preschool program. Little Hawkeyes Daycare will receive $1,500 to support a new storage shed and new outdoor play equipment.
The Diamond Arts and History Fund awarded $4,500 in grants. The Cedar Falls Community Theatre received $3,500 to support a new play festival that will champion the creativity and talent of local playwrights. The UNI Foundation received $1,000 to help fund the Suzuki Orchestra Tours.
CFCF has received accreditation renewal!
The Cedar Falls Community Foundation has been reaccredited with Community Foundations National Standards! Every three years, community foundations go through an extensive accreditation process to make sure we’re following best practices when it comes to grant making, administration, investments, and donor services. The Community Foundations National Standards accreditation program represents the CFCF’s commitment to go above and beyond federal and state law requirements to demonstrate accountability and excellence to our community, policy makers, and the public.
The accreditation also allows us to offer our donors the Endow Iowa Tax Credit program. Through this program, donors who give to a qualifying endowment can receive a 25% tax credit for their gift.
You’re invited to join us to
celebrate
the 36th annual Festival of Trees
Prepare to delight in the dancing of twinkling lights during the MercyOne Festival of Trees. Tickets will be available October 9 for the annual holiday celebration happening November 19–24, at Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center in Cedar Falls. Friends of MercyOne Cedar Falls are excited to welcome guests in person for this year’s festival benefiting MercyOne Cedar Falls Medical Center.
The theme for this year’s 36th annual Festival of Trees is “Joy to the World.” While most events are family-friendly, the magical Festival at Night will lead off the celebration with drinks, appetizers, and music. Other festival features include Uncork a Festive Spirit, Joy through Traditions, Red Sleigh, Games in the Trees, “Tree-mendous” Trivia Night, and a Holiday Breakfast Supporting Our Military. Children have an opportunity to meet Santa at his workshop on Saturday, November 23, and again when Santa joins Teddy Bear Tea on Sunday, November 24.
Most event require preregistration. However, viewing of the trees/ gallery is free, as well as Santa’s workshop. View the schedule and make reservations at www.MercyOne.org/festivaloftrees. If you have any questions, call 319-268-3161.
Online Silent Auction LIVE runs from Wednesday, November 11 until 2 pm on Sunday, November 24. Gallery and mezzanine space will offer trees, wreaths, table settings, beer and wine, tree raffle, and gift shop.
In its first 35 years, Festival of Trees raised $2 million for the nonprofit MercyOne Cedar Falls Foundation, funding medical equipment and other enhancements to improve the circle of care within our communities. Thank you! We look forward to seeing you among the twinkling lights of the Festival of Trees.
Parking Reminder
In September 2023, City Council passed Ordinance #3038, amending Chapter 23, Traffic and Motor Vehicles, of the Code of Ordinances relative to establishing temporary long-term daily permits for municipal parking lots or facilities. This means, in addition to a monthly parking permit, a daily parking permit may be purchased by monthly permit holders for temporary long-term parking. The purchase and proper display/registration of a daily parking permit entitles the motor vehicle to be parked in the designated off-street municipal parking lot or facility, without moving the vehicle, for an unlimited amount of time for the designated dates purchased, without penalty or removal by tow. This additional time can be purchased through a separate transaction in the parking permit portal located at www.thepermitportal.com
Landlords: Consider Participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program!
Do you own a rental property in Cedar Falls? The City of Cedar Falls encourages all landlords, property owners, and property management companies to consider participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The City receives annual funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to administer the Housing Choice Voucher Rental Assistance Program, which provides rent assistance to income-eligible households in Cedar Falls. Priority households assisted through the program include elderly or disabled persons and families with children who live or work in Cedar Falls. It is easy for a property owner to participate! If a prospective tenant has a Housing Choice Voucher and the rental unit meets the program requirements, the City of Cedar Falls will enter into a contract with the property owner and will provide rental assistance payments directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant. Renters pay no more than 30% of their income for rent and the City pays the difference up to the federal payment standard, which is adjusted by HUD every year based on fair market rents in our community.
An informational meeting for prospective landlords is being held on Wednesday, October 16, at 5:30 pm, in Conference Room 2, Cedar Falls City Hall (220 Clay Street).
To learn more about this opportunity contact Melissa at 319-273-8669 or at Melissa.Denning@cedarfalls.com.
Working together, we can help ensure that every family has safe, stable, and quality housing which makes our community stronger.
Housing Choice Voucher Program— Rental
Assistance
The City of Cedar Falls Planning and Community Services Division is accepting applications for rental assistance through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8. This federal program provides rental assistance to income qualifying households in our community. Through this program a voucher is issued to the tenant, who then pays no more than 30% of their monthly adjusted gross income for rent and utilities. The City pays the remainder of the monthly rent to the property owner using the funds received from the federal government.
You may qualify if your household income falls at or below the federal income guidelines below:
Please apply online at www.waitlistcheck.com/IA1330, or pick up an application at City Hall (220 Clay St.) to fill out at home and return.
The initial application to the program is for placement on a waiting list. The City notifies applicants when they reach the top of the waiting list by mail, and once they provide updated documentation to verify eligibility, they will be issued a voucher and have 120 days to find a housing unit that meets their household needs.
For more information about the Housing Choice Voucher Program, visit www.cedarfalls.com/section8.
Cedar Falls Health Trust Fund Board Seeks Grant Applicants
Get Up, Get Moving—Safe Fall Walking
For Funding
The Cedar Falls Health Trust Fund Board is currently seeking applicants. The maximum allocation of funding in a given year shall not exceed an amount determined annually based on the interest income generated by the Trust. The Health Trust Fund Board will have approximately $261,000 that will be available for distribution for the current year. In years past, the amount has been distributed to several different projects. Projects may be funded in full or partial amounts.
Individuals or organizations interested in seeking funding from the Health Trust Fund should submit an application to the Department of Finance & Business Operations before 4 pm on Thursday, October 17, 2024. The application requires that the applicant complete a Health Trust Fund Board application packet, which may be obtained from the Department of Finance & Business Operations, City of Cedar Falls, 220 Clay Street, Cedar Falls, IA 50613 or by visiting the City’s website at www.cedarfalls.com/health.
Requests must show a direct benefit to the citizens of Cedar Falls and emphasis must be given to health-related purposes within the city of Cedar Falls. Capital projects will receive priority funding over financing of program or operation costs. All projects funded should not conflict with services provided by other agencies and must provide a direct benefit to the citizens of Cedar Falls in the provision of health care services. Priority and emphasis will be given to groups that propose projects that use health trust funds to match other funding sources to complete projects. Applicants’ financial needs for a project will be a consideration in determining funding priorities. For further information, contact Jennifer Rodenbeck, City of Cedar Falls, Director of Finance & Business Operations, at 319-268-5108 or email jennifer.rodenbeck@cedarfalls.com.
Walking is free. It is easy and good for your mental and physical health. It is also good for the environment. October is National Pedestrian Safety Month. Pedestrians are walkers, runners, joggers, dog walkers, wheelchairs, strollers, skateboarders, roller-skaters, and bicycles. “Pedestrian Conveyance” includes human-powered devices to move a pedestrian or another person, other than by walking. Electronic motored devices that produce less than 750 watts are also included. Last year Iowa had 30 pedestrian deaths. This year, as of August, Iowa had 17 pedestrian deaths. Here are safety tips for walkers:
• Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and light signals. Be alert and be smart, listen, and look.
• Walk on the sidewalks whenever available. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the edge of the street facing traffic.
• Always cross streets at intersections and crosswalks. Look left, look right, and left again before stepping off the curb. Look across all lanes you must cross. If one vehicle stops, do not presume the driver in the next lane can see you and will stop.
• Be safe and be seen. Make yourself visible to drivers. Remember that with less daylight, wearing reflective clothes or a vest and carrying a flashlight is recommended. Do not wear earbuds or talk on your phone.
As a driver, be aware and look out for pedestrians everywhere. Use extra caution at night and in bad weather. Obey speed limits in school zones and neighborhoods. Be extra cautious when backing up. Be prepared to slow down and stop when turning “right on red.” Iowa law states drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Pedestrian fatalities are the deadliest on Halloween! Drivers should be watchful with Trick or Treaters. Walk using your eyes and ears to increase your safety this fall.
Please put your cart out on the makeup day prior to 7:00 a.m.
2024 Holiday Make-up Refuse Schedule
REGULAR DAY RESCHEDULED DAY
Thursday, November 28, 2024 . . . Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Friday, November 29, 2024 . . . . . Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 . . . . Monday, December 23, 2024
(No yard waste collection Monday, December 23, 2024)
Wednesday, December 25, 2024 . Thursday, December 26, 2024
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 . . . . Tuesday, December 31, 2024
It’s a Toilet, Not a Trash Can!
A toilet may seem like a convenient place to dispose of many common household items. One toilet manufacturer even claims to be able to flush a bucket of golf balls (please don’t try this at home). But just because something can go down the toilet, doesn’t mean it should. So, what happens to those items once they are flushed? Sometimes they make it all the way to the Water Reclamation Facility where they are removed by screening processes and sent to the landfill. Other times they get caught in the toilet, or your home’s plumbing, resulting in a costly plumbing repair. Worse yet, they clog a public sewer main, screening device, or sewer pump causing a nasty backup into neighboring homes or an overflow onto the street.
Though City sewer crews work year-round to clean and inspect more than 200 miles of sanitary sewer mains, we cannot control what each individual might decide to flush down the toilet. Often, by the time we do find out, it is much too late, and the damage is already done. So please be kind to all who use the public sanitary sewer system and never flush diapers, feminine hygiene products, rags, towels, latex or rubber gloves, sponges, disposable toilet brushes, underwear, or wipes of any kind.
If you ever have questions about how to properly dispose of common household items or believe that the City’s sewer is causing a problem with your private plumbing, please reach out to the Water Reclamation Facility at 319-273-8668. We’d be happy to help you find a solution.
City Tree Planting
Like many cities, Cedar Falls was hit hard by the Emerald Ash Borer infestation. The ash tree was a common street tree in Cedar Falls and many trees were lost. In 2023, the City used CDBG funds to purchase 85 street trees from a local nursery. City employees then planted trees along streets in low-moderate income neighborhoods. The project not only replaced some of the trees lost to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, but as the trees mature and provide shade to abutting properties and along public sidewalks, they will help reduce utility bills for low and moderate-income homeowners, reduce urban heat island effects, and create more walkable neighborhoods. The City is seeking an additional round of funding this year to plant more trees in the low to moderate income areas.
Additionally, City parks staff will be performing annual tree planting in the city right of way and city parks during the fall months. City staff will be teaming up with the local Land and Water Stewards AmeriCorps Team to plant approximately 200 trees. Trees for the fall planting will be taken from the City’s tree nursery stock. The City tree nursery has now matured to the point that it provides the opportunity to plant a greater number of quality trees each year at a much lower cost.
Questions related to the tree planting program can be directed to the public works department by calling 319-273-8629.
Fall Yard Waste Disposal Options
Cedar Falls Compost Facility
(300 block of east Main Street)
The compost facility is open through the end of November and into the winter months, weather permitting, daily from 8:00 am to dusk.
Residents are allowed to bring brush, logs, leaves, garden waste, and grass clippings to this site. Wood mulch and compost is available to Cedar Falls residents during normal operating hours. Residents are required to “load their own” so be sure to bring containers and shovels. The compost facility is intended for Cedar Falls residential use only. Contractors and non-residents are prohibited from using the facility. Garbage and demolition material is not accepted at this site. This includes landscape timbers, rocks, and dirt.
Yard Waste Carts
Yard waste carts are charged a reduced fee of $5/dump during October and November. Carts are collected as often as possible from November 4, 2024 through November 15, 2024. Residents must remove carts from the curb no later than 8:00 pm on the day of collection to prevent unwanted service fees.
From December–March yard waste is collected on a call-in basis. Make an appointment by calling the Public Works at (319) 273-8629.
Yard waste carts have a weight limit of 250 pounds. Residents are reminded not to overload carts. Please do not put dirt, sod, or ashes in the carts. Remember to place the cart at the curb by 7:00 am and maintain a distance of at least 3 feet away from other objects.
Mulching
Residents are encouraged to mulch leaves and clippings into the lawn throughout the year. Mulching lawn clippings add valuable organic matter back into the soil.
Beginning January 2025, the City of Cedar Falls will begin charging for overloaded garbage carts and return trips to collect carts not out at time of service. All violations will include photographic evidence and will be recorded via the on board camera system integrated into the City’s solid waste tracking software.
Overloaded carts are identified by the lid being open greater than 45 degrees and unable to close. The fee for overloaded carts is identified in the City Ordinance at $15 for each occurrence .
Carts not out at time of service, or carts inaccessible for the automated truck due to being too close to an object, will be charged a fee of $15 for each occurrence as identified in the City Ordinance.
This measure is being taken because Cedar Falls is a pay-as-you-throw community. Residents are charged for the collection of municipal solid waste based on the amount they throw away. The program is simple and fair. It is intended to encourage residents generate less waste through recycling and pre-consumer choices. When refuse carts are overfilled it defeats the purpose of this program.
Residents are allowed one extra bag that can be placed on top of the refuse cart. The bag must have an extra bag tag attached and visible to the operator. Tags can be purchased for $1.25 at the City transfer station, Hy-Vee, Ace Hardware, and Fareway on South Main Street.
Questions related to refuse collection services can be directed to the Public Works Department by calling 319-273-8629.
Lawn Management for a Healthy Environment
How you manage your lawn can have big implications in aesthetics, water quality, flooding, your economy and your health. Traditional and well-manicured lawns require a lot of time and inputs to look uniform and lush. Pesticides can not only affect many beneficial organisms (like pollinators) but are harmful to pets and humans. Fertilizers affect water quality downstream. Irrigation can generate a lot of runoff. And all of these inputs require money and time. Understanding the implications of how you manage your lawn can help you reduce the negative effects and can also help you turn your home into an oasis of life.
If your soil is healthy, you will likely need less inputs to have a healthy looking lawn. Topsoil with a good amount of organic matter and that is not compacted can support healthy vegetation. Adding from ½” to ¾” of compost to your lawn, and aerating it, can help improve a lot the organic matter and reduce compaction. If you feel that your lawn and plants need fertilizer, making sure to test the soil before applying it is a good idea. You should test your soil every 3-5 years before applying fertilizer. It is unlikely that you need phosphorous, so look for fertilizers without phosphorous (should have a 0 in the middle number). Please make sure to keep fertilizers and any lawn chemicals on the lawn and off the pavement. If you need to use herbicide, apply it to the areas needed and not to the entire lawn. When you are using sprinklers or irrigation, ensure water stays in the lawn, not reaching paved areas.
If you are building or buying a new home, making sure that you get a good amount of topsoil with good organic matter will help you a lot in the future. Also consider using other grasses for your lawn area, instead of turf grass. An internet search on low maintenance turfgrass alternatives, will help you learn about grasses that need minimal mowing and fertilizing, while still providing lawn areas you can use for recreation.
Reducing the area of lawn, and using these areas for bushes, trees, flowers, food gardens, rain gardens, native plants, etc. is another good alternative. Native plants provide the most habitat for pollinators, and are more resistant to droughts and wet periods. They also help the most to reduce wet spots on lawns and wet basements. Using a rain barrel (or several) is also a good idea. Rain water is better to water indoor and outdoor plants, and you may reduce erosion and wet issues in your grass. When you mow your lawn, pick up any grass clippings that make it to the driveway, streets, or sidewalks. If you live in a property bordering a drainage ditch, creek, river, pond or lake, you need to make sure to keep these clippings away from the water way. You also need to keep the leaves in the fall away from paved areas, storm sewer inlets, and waterways. Grass clippings and leaves have a lot of nutrients in them that are good for your lawn (so leave them or some of them in the lawn), but are bad for our waters, as they can cause algae blooms.
Thank you for being mindful of how you manage your lawn. We all can make a big difference!
Winter Maintenance Reminders
As winter approaches, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that come with managing snow and ice on city streets and public spaces. To ensure a safe winter season, we encourage all residents to stay informed about public works winter maintenance efforts. The department of public works is committed to keeping roadways and public spaces clear and accessible, but resident cooperation is essential for efficient operations. Be mindful of winter weather updates and adjust travel plans accordingly. Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions to minimize hazards and to allow maintenance crews to work efficiently.
One key aspect of winter maintenance is snow plowing and deicing city streets. Main roads, emergency routes, and areas around schools are prioritized to ensure the most critical routes are safe as possible. Secondary roads and residential streets follow suit but may experience delays. Residents are asked to practice patience and avoid parking on the street during snowstorms to help city plow operators clear Priority routes sand side streets efficiently.
Safety is a top priority during winter maintenance operations. City staff are trained to handle challenging conditions, but we also ask for motorist’s assistance with safe winter driving. Keep a good, safe stopping distance from snowplows and other maintenance vehicles, as they will be moving slower and may make unexpected stops.
Lastly, Public Works is committed to minimizing the environmental impact during winter maintenance activities. Road salt and deicing materials are used based on temperatures and road conditions to minimize ecological harm. Public Works staff calibrate all material spreaders on plow equipment prior to the winter season to ensure impacts on the environment are minimized.
For questions on this topic or other Public Works/Parks Division related programs please call 319-273-8629.
Recreation Trail Winter Maintenance
With winter now upon us there are many options related to recreation trail usage during the winter months. Trails can be used as normal most of the winter when limited precipitation is received. When accumulative snowfall does occur, many trails will receive snow removal. The trails that are cleared connect with other on-street trails and sidewalks to provide connectivity throughout the city. The trails that are not cleared are typically earmarked for winter recreation including snow shoeing, fat tire biking, cross country skiing or hiking. When enough snow is received, some select trails are groomed for the purpose of winter recreation activities.
Recreation trail users are reminded to be cautious of snowpack and the potential for icing on trails that are cleared.
Visit www.cedarfalls.com/ Snow-Removal to view a map of winter trail maintenance.
Keep storm inlets and paved areas free of grass clippings, leaves, fertilizers, salt, sediment.
If you are applying fertilizer, make sure to buy one without phosphorous. Please get your soil tested periodically.
Aerating your lawn and adding compost can restore the soil, and improve your lawn significantly.
Include native plants in your landscape.
Use a rain barrel to capture rainfall.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATES
2024 Alley Reconstruction Project
The 2024 Alley Reconstruction Project consists of two City alley being reconstructed into a permeable alley and three City alleys are being constructed with new concrete surface. This project is funded by the Storm Water Bonds and St. Construction Fund. The following alleys have been under construction this Summer. The construction for the 2024 Alley Reconstruction Project will be completed this fall.
Between From To Alley Type
Washington St. & Main St. W. 1st St. W. 2nd St. Concrete
Main St. & State St. E. 3rd St. E. 4th St. Concrete
Franklin St. & Clay St. W. 5th St. W. 6th St. Concrete
Bluff St. & Grove St. E. 11th St. E. 12th St. Permeable
Clay St. & Washington St. W. 14th St. W. 15th St. Permeable
The alley between Franklin St. and Clay St. from W. 5th St. to W. 6th St. was reconstructed and back open to the public. This alley was reconstructed with a concrete surface and an inverted crown to capture storm water on and adjacent to the alley and direct the flow to the roadway into the City’s storm sewer. The inverted crown helps capture storm water and alleviate any water build up in yards or on the alley.
The two alleys, first one between Bluff St. and Grove St. from E. 11th St. and E. 12th St., as well as the alley between Clay St. and Washington St.
Main Street Reconstruction
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE: The roundabout at the intersection of Main Street and Waterloo Road/W 12th Street is wrapping up. Traffic flows to and around this intersection will be restored. Once vehicular traffic is restored at this roundabout, a short-term closure at the intersection of State Street at Waterloo Road will take place to tie in the new sanitary sewer. As this work is wrapping up, the work to the south remains in full swing. Significant portions of the paving have been completed, and most of the underground infrastructure has been installed. This includes the sanitary sewer main, the water main, and the storm sewer. As this work continues to progress to the south, re-openings of the corridor from 13th Street down to 15th Street are anticipated to occur prior to the reopening of the entire corridor to traffic ahead of winter shutdown (typically around the Thanksgiving holiday).
Outside of any remaining punchlist work, the bulk of this overall project will be completed this year, leaving the intersection of W. 18th Street and Main slated for completion during the 2025 construction season. This will be the final roundabout installation for the project. Additional information for this project can be found at www.cedarfallsmainstreetproject.com
from W. 14th St. to W. 15th St. were reconstructed as permeable alleys. The permeable alley system consists of the installation of two concrete edge restraints with a band of permeable pavers down the center of the alley. Below the surface is a rock chamber that will store the storm water the alley captures and slowly release it into a tile line beneath. The tile line is a direct route for the storm water that is captured in the alley to the city’s existing storm infrastructure under the adjacent streets.
The alley between Washington St. and Main St. from W. 1st St. to W. 2nd St., as well as the alley between Main St. and State St. from E. 3rd St. to E. 4th St. are the remaining alleys on the 2024 Alley Reconstruction Project. These alleys will be paved back with an inverted crown to capture the storm water. The reconstruction will include new storm sewer infrastructure to be installed with center intakes in the alley to collect the storm water and give it a direct route to the City’s storm sewer system. The East-West section of alley between Washington St. and Main St. from W. 1st St. to W. 2nd St. towards Main St. will be paved back with an inverted crown to direct storm sewer to the intake. These alleys will be reconstructed after ARTapalooza, in order to avoid closures during the event. One of the mentioned downtown alleys will be started the week of September 9, and notice will be sent out prior to the closure of the alley with more information.
There are two goals with the 2024 Alley Reconstruction project, the first is to reconstruct alley’s that require maintenance frequently. The second goal is to help the city’s storm water management system with the installation of the Permeable Alleys. The 2024 Alley Reconstruction Project has targeted maintenance heavy alleys and alleys of active public concern.
Mains Street Reconstruction Phasing Plan
2024 Sidewalk Assessment Project
The 2024 Sidewalk Assessment Project is a yearly project administered by the Engineering Department, where public sidewalks are inspected for deficiencies on a ten-year cycle. The City is divided into ten zones and one zone is inspected each year. This year’s work is located in Zone 6. By City Ordinance Section 19-183, abutting property owners are required to reconstruct all broken or defective sidewalks, when notice is given from the City of Cedar Falls.
For the 2024 Sidewalk Assessment Project Zone 6 was inspected and sidewalks with deficiencies were marked. This was done in the spring on 2023. Once all deficient sidewalks are identified and compiled, notification letters are sent out to the property owners informing them of their deficient sidewalk. The notification letter lets the property owner know for one, that they have deficient sidewalk and for two, what repair code corresponds to the deficiency. The letter also informs the property owners what their options are regarding repair of the sidewalk. They have the option to either repair the sidewalk on their own or elect to have the city repair the sidewalk with the city’s contractor. Property owner’s are given three notifications regarding their deficient sidewalks before the City’s contractor will begin work repairing the sidewalks of those property owners that have elected that the work be completed by the city’s contractor.
Once the project is complete then a breakdown of expenditures will be completed for the properties that were part of the project.
This breakdown will then go to council with the final out of the project. Once the City Council approves the breakdown of expenditures for the project, the bills will then be mailed to the properties that were apart of the assessment with a window of 30 days to submit payment to the City.
If the property owner does not pay their bill at City Hall within the 30 days allotted, the bill then goes to the county. The county then will special assess the sidewalk work that was done, to be paid with your regular property taxes.
Main Street Reconstruction Phasing Plan
The 2024 Sidewalk Assessment Project has roughly 417 properties that JQ Construction and their subcontractor are working on to complete. Construction for this project should be completed in the upcoming month.
The 2025 Sidewalk Assessment Project is in Zone 7, and panels have been marked for the upcoming project. The first letter has been sent to respective homeowners giving notice of the marked panels and the 2nd notice will be sent in the upcoming weeks.
TOURISM CALENDAR OF EVENTS
1–31 Panthers on Parade Cedar Falls and the Cedar Valley cedarfallstourism.org/ panthers-on-parade
2–4 Waverly Midwest Horse Sale Waverly Sale Barn waverlysales.com
3 Girls Night Out Cedar Falls Downtown District 5pm–8pm communitymainstreet.org
4 Cedar Valley Nature Trail 40th Anniversary Celebration Community Center, Urbana 1pm cedarvalleytrails.org
4–6 UNI Family Weekend University of Northern Iowa familyweekend.uni.edu
4–6 Theatre UNI | Ordinary Days Bertha Martin Theatre, Strayer-Wood Theatre Fri & Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm theatreuni.uni.edu
5 18th Annual Pink Ribbon Run River Place Plaza 8am beyondpinkteam.org
5 UNI Football vs South Dakota State UNI-Dome 4pm unipanthers.com
5, 12, 19, 26 Cedar Falls Farmers Market Clay & Third St 8:30am–noon cedarfallsfarmersmarket. weebly.com
6 Breast Cancer Awareness Ride SingleSpeed, Waterloo 1pm cedarvalleycyclists.org
8 Music & Praise | The Down East Boys Fellowship Hall, Riverview Conference Center 7pm riverviewministries.com/ events
11 UNI Volleyball vs Belmont McLeod Center 6pm unipathers.com
11 Academy of St Martin in the Fields | Chamber Ensemble GBPAC 7pm gbpac.com
11 UNI Spotlight Series | Jazz Band One & Jazz Band Two Bengston Auditorium, Russell Hall 7:30pm music.uni.edu
11–13 The Hound of the Baskervilles | A Comic Thriller Oster Regent Theatre Fri & Sat 7pm; Sun 2pm mycfct.org
11–13 Theatre UNI | Ordinary Days Bertha Martin Theatre, Strayer-Wood Theatre Fri & Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm theatreuni.uni.edu
12 Saturday in Seerley Seerley Park 9–11am collegehillpartnership.org
12 UNI Volleyball vs Murray State McLeod Center 5pm unipathers.com
12 Candlelight Pop-Up Concert: Joel Sires Cedar Fall’s Woman’s Club 7:30pm gbpac.com
13 Autumn at the Arboretum | Pets on Parade Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, Waterloo 11:30am–3pm cedarvalleyarboretum.org
13 UNI Spotlight Series | UNI Choirs GBPAC 4pm
14 UNI Volleyball vs Drake McLeod Center 6pm unipathers.com
18–19 Quilt Show | Primary & Secondary— An Explosion of Color and Pattern Fellowship Hall, First United Methodist Church Fri 10am–7pm; Sat 9am–3pm keepsakequiltersguildcv.org
18–20 The Hound of the Baskervilles | A Comic Thriller Oster Regent Theatre Fri 7pm; Sat & Sun 2pm mycfct.org
25 UNI Homecoming Bash Lawther Field, University of Northern Iowa 5pm–7pm homecoming. uni.edu
25 UNI Volleyball vs Evansville McLeod Center 6pm unipathers.com
25–26 UNI Homecoming University of Northern Iowa homecoming.uni.edu
25–27 The Music Man GBPAC Fri 7pm; Sat & Sun 2pm gbpac.com
26 UNI Homecoming Parade Cedar Falls Downtown District 11am homecoming.uni.edu
26 UNI Football vs Missouri State UNI-Dome 4pm unipanthers.com
26 UNI Volleyball vs Indiana State McLeod Center 6pm unipathers.com
27 Autumn at the Arboretum | Witches’ Hallow Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, Waterloo 11:30am–3pm cedarvalleyarboretum.org
27 3rd Annual Iowa Music Awards Bien VenU 4pm iowamusicawards.com
31 Trick or Treat in the District Cedar Falls Downtown District 3:30pm–5pm communitymainstreet.org
1 UNI Cross Country | MVC Championships Pheasant Ridge Golf Course Women 10:30am; Men 11:30am unipanthers.com
1 Indigo Girls GBPAC 7pm gbpac.com
2 Scott Sterrett Memorial Races State Street, between 2nd & 3rd Streets 7:30am fasttrackracingftr. wordpress.com
2 Wildcard Iowa Fraternal Order of the Eagles #4074 6:30pm
20–22 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Oster Regent Theatre Fri 7pm; Sat & Sun 2pm mycfct.org
31 wcfsymphony | Swinging in the New Year GBPAC 8pm wcfsymphony.org
For Hearst Center events, please see pages
*GBPAC: Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center * UNI Athletic Events: unipanthers.com All times and dates subject to change.
HRC Second Annual Fall Summit
The Cedar Falls Human Rights Commission (HRC) will be holding their Second Annual Fall Summit: “Cross-Cultural Barriers to Housing, Past and Present” on Friday, October 11, from 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. at the Central Rivers AEA in Cedar Falls. Topics span creating a welcoming community and housing veterans to the Cedar Valley’s historical redlining and restrictive covenants and the effects of housing barriers. Registration includes a light breakfast, educational breakout sessions, lunch, a housing panel, networking and a social hour!
The summit also provides 6 hours of continuing education credits for Iowa licensed social workers.
Registration is $40 per person for individuals or $140 for a group of four. Please contact Cedar Falls City Hall administrative staff at 319-273-8600 and tell them you are registering for the Fall Summit.
Reach out to the DEI specialist and HRC liaison, Chelsie Luhring, at 319-268-5120 or chelsie.luhring@cedarfalls.com with any questions.
VICTORIAN HOUSE MUSEUM
308 W. 3rd Street | Open February–December
Tuesday–Saturday, 10 am–4 pm; Sunday, 1–4 pm
2024 EXHIBITION
The Rosenthals: The Show Must Go On! Victorian House Museum, 308 W 3rd Street Tuesday–Saturday, 10 am–4 pm; Sunday, 1–4 pm, through December 20
Vaudeville! Before radio, TV, YouTube and TikTok, entertainers crisscrossed the United States via railroad and by Model T, bringing music, laughs and sometimes outlandish acts to stages in towns and cities of all sizes. Cedar Falls hosted vaudevillians in its theatres, but Cedar Falls was also home to the nationally known Vaudeville couple: Lew and Mabel Rosenthal. Lew and Mabel worked under the name of “Rose & Severns” and played venues from coast to coast and into Canada. Their home on Grand Blvd. was always open to their fellow vaudevillians, whether for a day or two, or longer for those down on their luck. Learn about this fascinating couple and their work and life together, in our featured exhibit for 2024, which won an Iowa Museum Association Award of Excellence!
It’s Not Just a Magic Show, It’s an Experience!
November 17, 2:00 pm, 315 Clay Street
Eric Michaels has been performing magic since he was a child. Now 21 years later, his show is jam-packed with puzzling magic, audience participation, comedy, live animals, and his beautiful assistant! Bring the family and see what everyone is talking about! Registration required.
thehearst.org
304 west seerley boulevard
cedar falls, iowa 50613
319.273.8641
Closed November 28–December 1 and December 24–25, 2024
EXHIBITIONS
tue & thu 10 am–9 pm
wed & fri 10 am–5 pm
sat & sun 1–4 pm
Admission is free daily.
Hearst Center for the Arts is part of the Department of Community Development, City of Cedar Falls.
RED HOUSE ARTISTS: WORKS BY NOAH DOELY, TAYLOR HANSEN, MONICA SANGUINO, AND ANGELA WASESKUK
On view through November 27, 2024
Public Reception: Thursday, September 26 from 5:00–6:30 p.m.
Red House Studios, Hearst’s artist residency program, has provided local artists with creative space for five years. Located next to the main Hearst Center building, its residents range from university professors to local artists. In partnership with the UNI Art Department and the Cedar Falls Art & Culture Board, one UNI alumnus annually receives subsidized studio rent, speaks at the art department’s SMART Session series, and exhibits their work at UNI’s Kamerick Gallery. This new exhibition at the Hearst showcases the collective work of current and recent residents, exploring their vision and practice.
PERMANENT COLLECTION FEATURING OSIE L. JOHNSON
On view through November 27, 2024
Public Reception: Thursday, September 26 from 5:00–6:30 p.m.
Ohio-born artist Osie L. Johnson, Jr. studied illustration and graphic design at the Art Academy of Cincinnati. After earning an MA at UNI and an MFA in illustration at the School of Visual Arts, NY, Johnson joined the UNI faculty as an Assistant Professor of Art. As an illustrator, he frequently contributed to the North American Review. As a teacher, his influence can still be strongly felt among those who worked with him, at a time when young artists hovered between handmade and computer techniques, between type and imagery, and between the dual enticements of abstraction and pictorial forms. As shown in this mixed selection of his work, made at various times while he was living in Iowa, Osie taught students to straddle the bounds. Drawn from the Hearst Permanent Collection, the UNI Permanent Collection, and private collectors, some of these paintings and prints will be shown together again for the first time in 20 years.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF THE NORTH AMERICAN REVIEW IN IOWA
On view through November 27, 2024
Public Reception: Thursday, September 26 from 5:00–6:30 p.m.
To commemorate the 60-year anniversary of the North American Review moving to Iowa, the Fall 2024 issue includes visual art by 18 Iowa artists. This show features those works, and the issue they appear in will be available for sale. Support is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority.
DENIS ROUSSEL: PERMANENCE AND IMPERMANENCE
December 19, 2024–March 9, 2025
Works by chemist and photographer Denis Roussel are featured in this exhibition, which is presented with support and guidance from the late artist’s family and friends. The collection is co-curated by Waterloo Center for the Arts Curator and former UNI Gallery of Art Director
Darrell Taylor and UNI Associate Professor Matthew Wilson.
SIDIAN LIU: THE CONCH GIRL PROJECT
December 19, 2024 – March 9, 2025
Sidian Liu is an image-based artist, translator, and home builder. Her practice reacts to a sense of displacement by utilizing images, text, performance, installation, and socially engaged methods. Her works address the issue of social barriers, and through her work she focuses on the participation and interaction of the public, facilitating intimacy from a distance while establishing a space to feel belonging through an exchange of trust and respect.
EVENTS & PROGRAMS
All events listed are free and open to the public.
THE HEARST FILM SCENE
Doors open at 7 p.m. Movie starts at 7:15 p.m.
The Hearst Film Scene is for cinephiles, film buffs, and anyone interested in movies. As part of this program we will be screening films, hosting conversations and featuring art that incorporates moving pictures.
Tuesday, October 8: PANEL DISCUSSION THE ART OF THE SCARE: THE HISTORY OF HORROR FILMS AND OUR FASCINATION WITH FRIGHT
There are some who watch horror films with trepidation and then there are those dark devotees who live for the thrill of the scare. Whether it’s a haunted house or a horror film…scary experiences offer us a kind of transcendence by showing us we are part of something beyond the everyday. Learn the history of horror from a small panel of horror devotees. Bring a list of your five favorite horror films to share.
Thursday, October 24: SILENT HORROR CLASSIC NOSFERATU: A SYMPHONY OF HORROR with live musical accompaniment by DATASTREAM Nosferatu transforms idyllic daylight and structured staircases into alluring mysteries of the dark; all-the-while contrasting innocence with unspeakable evil. This is the quintessential silent horror film! The story is one that soothes the heart while simultaneously activating massive amounts of goosebumps. Experience this classic horror flick with a live surround soundtrack and eerie accoutrements provided by the masters of ambient sound Scot Schwestka and Sandy Nordahl (a.k.a. Data Stream). Vampire dress welcome.
MIDDAY MELODIES
Fridays at 12:00 p.m.
Enjoy classics performed by the UNI School of Music Department students and faculty.
October 11: Brett Copeland directs UNI Tuba Students November 8: TBA—follow on social media for updates.
CORNFIELD
BABYLON PRESENTS!
Tuesday, October 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Join us for an evening of entertainment featuring short films produced by Cornfield Babylon. Special appearance by Grando, The Waverly Phantom –the Cedar Valley’s Premiere Superhero!
Shocking Tales of Surrender (PG-13, staged reading)
Facing Marty (PG, short film)
Meet Grando, The Waverly Phantom Rosie (G, short film)
Red House Artists, Angela Waseskuk, Monica Sanguino, Noah Doely, and Taylor Hansen
Osie L. Johnson, Wish “The Machine,” Airbrush and ink, 1996, Gift of the artist, 2000.01.02
Denis Rousel, Echo Lake, Cyanotype
Gary Kelley, Homegrown In Iowa
Photograph of 2024 Denis Roussel Fellow and artist, Sidian Liu
CEDAR FALLS COMMUNITY THEATRE AND HEARST CENTER PRESENT...GORILLA THEATRE!
Tuesday, October 22 at 6:00 p.m.
The stakes will be high and there will be no net this fall in an unscripted comedy event called… Gorilla Theater. Two improv teams will meet in a comedy showdown where the celebrity judges, chosen from the audience, will award points during the show that will determine which team captain gets to go home with Bingo the Comedy Gorilla! A totally improvised show with lots of audience participation, it will be the first and last time these sketches will ever be performed! It will be bananas!
RED HERRING THEATRE PRESENTS: THE LIFESPAN OF A FAC T
Tuesday, October 29 at 6:30 p.m.
Written by Jeremy Kareken, David Murrell and Gordon Farrell; Directed by Karen Mitchell; Sponsored by Jones Law Firm, Mike and Rita Waggoner, and Friends of the Hearst. Synopsis: The Lifespan of a Fact is based on the true story of a renowned essayist and a magazine’s eager fact checker locked in a battle of wills as they navigate the lines of fact and truth. The play is based on the book of the same name by essayist John D’Agata and his reallife fact checker, Jim Fingal.
HYBRID! FINAL THURSDAY READING SERIES
Open mic starts at 7:00 p.m. & featured author talk begins at 7:30 p.m. Visit finalthursdaypress.com for links to attend virtually.
Join us for a community open mic followed by a discussion with a featured author. The Final Thursday Reading Series is a collaboration of Final Thursday Press, the Hearst Center, the UNI College of Humanities, Arts and Sciences, and the UNI Department of Languages and Literatures.
October 31: Brooke Wonders | *featured author starts at 7:00 p.m., no open mic night.
November 21: Paul Brooke | **one week early due to Thanksgiving IOWA CHAMBER MUSIC COLLECTIVE CONCERT
Sunday, November 10 at 2:00 p.m.
Experience live music featuring compositions by Darius Milhaud, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and more. This diverse group of talented friends founded the Iowa Chamber Music Collective in 2022 as a nonprofit organization. Performers include Daniel Kaplunas, violin; John Chiles, viola; Liudmila Lebedeva, cello; Camille Balleza, piano; Ranee Yang, clarinet; Dan Reynolds, piano.
THE MESA DUO CONCERT
Tuesday, December 3 at 7:00 p.m.
UNI professors and acclaimed artists Nash Ryder and Sean Botkin formed the Mesa Duo in early 2024. Their purpose is to present the lesser-known works for violin and piano and share fresh interpretations of the classics with listeners.
ANNUAL HEARST HOLIDAY CONCERT
Tuesday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m.
Join us for our annual holiday concert at the Hearst Center featuring The Iowa Chamber Music Collective in collaboration with The Music Hill String Orchestra. Enjoy holiday tunes featuring compositions such as Stabat Mater by Italian composer G. Pergolesi, and Collage sur B.A.C.H. by Estonian composer A. Part. Performers include: Elizabeth Nelson, soprano; Elizabeth Biber, mezzo-soprano.
ADULT
INTRO TO LINO PRINTMAKING
Wednesdays, October 30-December 11 from 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Learn this centuries-old method of image reproduction with our expert instructor. Students in this beginner’s class will learn the “art” of transferring drawings onto blocks, carving techniques, and the printing process. Materials are included. Instructor: Merle Poland Fee: $93 (Friends Member $84)
FIGURE DRAWING
Tuesdays, November 5- December 10 from 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Hone your skills and learn anatomical basics as you draw or paint from a live model. This class will be self-directed with a guide. Advance your skills by routine practice and exchange tips and tricks with fellow students and Hearst Staff. Instructor: Self-guided with Hearst Staff on site Fee: $65 (Friends Member $58)
REGISTER FOR CLASSES @THEHEARST!
Visit us at thehearst.org, call 319.273.8641, stop in, or scan the QR code!
THE ART OF DRAWING: A CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR
Thursdays, November 7-21 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Join us for an enriching creative journey centered on drawing, with the option to explore mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, and more. This course offers a flexible, open-atelier format, allowing participants to delve into these mediums at their own pace and according to their interests. Whether you’re seeking to work on current skills or venture into new artistic territories, this course offers both the freedom and support needed to do so. Materials included. Beverages will be served. Instructor: Annette Stevenson Fee: $45 (Friends Member $40)
YOUTH
MESSY MORNINGS (AGES 3–6)
Wednesdays through December 11 from 10:00–11:00 a.m. (No Messy Mornings Wednesday, November 27 for the Thanksgiving holiday)
Explore a wide variety of materials thorough creative and delightfully messy projects. A parent or caregiver must accompany the participating child. Younger siblings are welcome. Fee: $7/person
ART DAY AWAY (AGES 5–12)
Friday, October 11 from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Join us for this fun, single-day camp held on a public-school professional development day. Painting, drawing, printing, and more are explored, with art ready to take home at the end of the day. Campers must bring their own lunch and snacks. Fee: $48 (Friends Member $43) Before and Aftercare (8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) available for an additional $10
MESSY MONSTERS: A TRICK OR TREAT CRAFT NIGHT (AGES 3–6)
Thursday, October 31 from 5:30–7:00 p.m.
Put on a costume and join us for an evening twist on a “Messy Mornings” session. Explore a wide variety of materials through creative and delightfully spooky projects. A parent or caregiver must accompany the participating child. Younger siblings are welcome. Fee: $7/person
CULTIVATING CREATIVITY (AGES 5–12)
Each month our Education Staff will focus on teaching a different art medium to cultivate creativity and exploration. Student activities will be divided by age group (ages 5–9 & 10–12), parents are always welcome to sit in on these four sessions.
Imaginative Illustrators
Saturdays in October from 1:00–2:30 p.m.
Students will learn about a published illustrator and create a project inspired by their creative process every session. Fee: $48 (Friends Member $43)
Silly Sculptures
Saturdays in November from 1:00–2:30 p.m.
Explore 3D concepts in art making by creating sculptures using multiple mediums like air dry clay, papier mâché, and more! Fee $48 (Friends Member $43)
FAMILY
HOLIDAY ORNAMENT WORKSHOP
Saturday, December 7 from 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Design unique ceramic ornaments, handmade by your whole family! Various shapes and glazes provide for a fun holiday activity. Participants will be able to pick up their work the following week. Fee: $37 per family up to 4, additional guests are $5/person
TEEN
TEEN ART CLUB (AGES 13–18)
First & third Tuesdays of the month through December 17 from 4:00–6:00 p.m.
This creative group gathers to work on personal projects with peer feedback and instructor guidance (available but not required). Some art materials are provided, and students are welcome to bring their own supplies. Instructor: Hearst Youth Instructor TBA Fee: $5/session
PUBLIC LIBRARY
524 Main St Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (319) 273-8643
Stay up to date at www cedarfallslibrary org
Please visit the Library’s events calendar for program descriptions at www.cedarfallslibrary.org/programs-and-events. Library closing at 5 pm on November 27 & December 31. Library and Community Center closed November 28–29, December 24–25, and January 1.
PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES
Lego Story Builders
Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Oct. 1, meeting room
Nov. 5, Dec. 3,
Get ready to show your creativity and use your imagination! We will have a monthly theme with a short story and challenges. Work in groups or solo to create your Lego masterpieces while solving fun challenges, or simply to freestyle build! October’s theme is Haunted House.
Minecraft Night with NirvanaOnline
Tuesdays from 6–7:30 p.m., meeting room
Oct. 8, Nov. 12, Dec. 10
Registration required if you need access to a Minecraft account or computer. If you have both a Minecraft account and a laptop with you, registration is not necessary.
Monday, Oct. 14 from 6–8 p.m., Co-Lab Drop in while supplies last and show us what kind of twisted toy combinations you can come up with. Feel free to bring in your own used and broken toys, just be prepared to rip them apart and give them a new life. No registration required. The library’s Safe Child Policy applies to all programs—children under 11 need a responsible caregiver present with them at all times. This program contains extensive use of hot glue and sharps to cut apart toys—adult assistance may be necessary.
There is only one research organization in the world that is dedicated to the study and conservation of humanity’s closest relative, the bonobo—and it’s right here in Iowa. Come learn about Des Moines’ Ape Cognition and Conservation Initiative (a.k.a. the Ape Initiative) and their efforts to learn about the origins of language, sentience, and human behavior.
International Games Week
Saturday, Nov. 9, 1–3 p.m., meeting room Retro Games Open Play
Monday, Nov. 18 from 5:30–7 p.m., Co-Lab Drop-in program. No registration required.
PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS
A Fortean Discussion with Tobias Wayland
Saturday, Oct. 5 at 2 p.m., meeting room
Join author and paranormal investigator, Tobias Wayland, for a presentation on his experiences with Fortean phenomena. Tobias has investigated and written about UFOs, cryptids, and other strange occurrences for over a decade. He founded the Singular Fortean Society with his wife Emily.
Science vs. Magic: CFPL’s Fantasy/Sci-fi Book Club
1st Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the conference room
Oct. 2: Starter Villain by John Scalzi
Nov. 6: The Last Heir to Blackwood Librar y by Hester Fox
Dec. 4: Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller
Sunday Funday at the Library
Sundays from 1–4:30 p.m. in the Co-Lab
Oct. 6: Paint a book brick for your garden, to use as book ends, or to use as a doorstop.
Nov. 3: Introduction to Collage. Registration required. Materials provided, but you are encouraged to bring any decorative papers, old photos or letters (originals won’t be harmed) or inspirational sayings you would like to incorporate in your work of art.
Dec. 1: Create your own Zen Garden. Registration required, but walk-ins welcome while supplies last.
Vince Gotera Poetry Reading
Monday, Oct. 7 at 6 p.m., meeting room
Join Iowa Poet Laureate Vince Gotera for a reading from his new poetry collection Dragons & Rayguns. Copies will be available for purchase.
Midweek Nightmares
(movie series for adults)
Wednesdays at 6 p.m., meeting room
Oct. 9: Night of the Living Dead (1968), not rated Oct. 16: The Mist (2007), rated R
Oct. 23: The Thing (1982), rated R
Oct. 30: The Witch (2015), rated R
Book Discussion for Parents about Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
Sundays at 2 p.m., meeting room (continuing from September)
Oct. 13: Part 3
Oct. 27: Part 4
Zygmunt Frackiewicz–The Journey of a Polish POW 1939–1945
Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 6:30 p.m., meeting room
Local resident Roman Frackiewicz will share his analysis of his father’s 6 years as a Polish P.O.W. during WWII. Roman knew his dad was a soldier but after his death discovered he was in multiple Russian and German Stalags. A decade of research on that long lost history uncovered his dad’s torturous trail. His blog details Roman’s quest to understand those circumstances. There will be time for questions and answers.
Death Café with Dr. Melinda Heinz
Monday, Oct. 14 from 7–8:30 p.m., meeting room
Community members 18 and older are invited for group discussion about mortality and grief.
Movie Matinee
Fridays at 2 p.m., meeting room
Nov. 15: Pieces of April, rated PG-13
Dec. 20: The Holiday, rated PG-13
Gift of Giving
Saturdays from 9:30–11:30 a.m. OR 2–4 p.m.
Co-Lab
Registration required.
Nov. 23: #1 Giving plates
Dec. 7: #2 Tea and Cocoa Packets
Dec. 14: #3 Gift Boxes and Wrapping Paper
Dec. 21: #4 Hand-Painted Ornaments
Friends Morning Book Discussion
Tuesdays at 10:15, conference room
Oct. 29: The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann
Nov. 19: Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Dec. 31: The Other Eden by Paul Harding
Friends Evening Book Discussion
Tuesdays at 7 p.m. via Google Meet
Oct. 1: The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
Nov. 5: Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd
Dec. 3: The Day the World Came to Town by Jim Defede
Sewing and Quilting Group
Mondays from 10 a.m.–1p.m. in the Co-Lab, Oct. 14 and 28, Nov. 11 and 25, Dec. 9 and 23
Library and Community Center are CLOSED: May 26 & 27
Library Open Saturday, June 29 from 1–5 pm
All library programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Cedar Falls Public Library except where otherwise noted. Please see our Programs & Events list on our webpage for program details at www.cedarfallslibrary.org.
PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH
Storytime Schedule
Monday at 10:30 a.m.
Sprout (Baby) Storytime 0–18 months Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.
Sapling (Preschool) Storytime 3–5 years
Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.
Seedling (Toddler) Storytime 2–3 years Friday at 10:30 a.m.
Music & Movement Storytime 2–5 years Saturday at 10:30 a.m.
Grove (Family) Storytime 2–5 years
Scary Story Contest
Oct. 1–24
Submit your scariest story to our contest for a chance to win a prize! Prizes will be provided in the K–3rd Grade category, the 4th–6th Grade category, and the 7th–12th Grade category. Please submit your stories as a PDF document to youth@cedarfallslibrary.org by 11:59 on October 24th to be considered for the contest. Contest winners will be announced on October 31st and posted on the Library’s social media. The winning stories will also be posted on our website!
Get into It! A Special Interests Club
Wednesdays from 3–4 p.m. in the youth department, Oct. 2, Nov. 6, Dec. 4 For ages 6–12.
Sensory Stations for Little Learners
Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. in the youth department, Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5 Ages 0–5.
Curious Kids
Thursdays from 4:15–5:15 in the Co-Lab Oct. 3, Nov. 7, Dec. 5
Curious kids is a monthly STEM program where we will explore different STEM related activities. For gr. K–3.
Tween Time
Wednesdays at 3:30 in the youth department Oct. 9 and 16, Nov. 13 and 20, Dec. 11 and 18 Ages 9–12.
T.A.C. Tween Advisory Club
Tuesdays at 4:30, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3 teen room For ages 9–12.
Junior Graphic Novel Book Club
Mondays at 4:15, youth department Oct. 21, Dec. 9 Ages 9–12.
Kids Book Club
Tuesdays at 4:15, youth department Oct. 22, Nov. 26, Dec. 17, Ages 7–9.
Celebrate Diwali! Drop-in Craft
Saturday, Oct. 26 from 2–3:30 p.m., Co-Lab For families.
This program will be held at The Patch. NO transportation will be provided to or from the library. The library is providing 40 tickets to teens on a first-come-first-served basis, available to pick at the library starting Sept 17th. These tickets are for teens only. Additional teens beyond the first 40 tickets, parents, and siblings will be allowed to purchase admission at the door day-of. Any tickets remaining day-of (of the initial 40) will be brought to The Patch with the librarians. This is for admission only—one ticket per teen—and any additional costs accrued in The Patch are at the responsibility of the purchaser to pay.
Teen Open Co-Lab: Costume Prep
Wednesday, Oct. 16 from 6–8 p.m., Co-Lab
Anime Club
Saturdays from 2–4 p.m., teen room
Oct. 19, Nov. 23, Dec. 14
Junior High Book Club
Sundays from 3–3:45 p.m., teen room
Oct. 27, Nov. 24, Dec. 22
After-Hours Teen Movie Night
Thursday, November 7, from 6–8:15 p.m. meeting room
Join us after hours for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (PG-13) There will be pizza, popcorn, and soda to enjoy during the film.
Teen Secret Storage Box
Wednesday, December 4 from 6–8 p.m., Co-Lab Drop-in style. No registration required, but supplies may be limited.
360 Degrees of Creativity Art Club
Mondays from 6:30–8 p.m. in the teen room
Oct. 28, Nov. 25, Dec. 30
Weekday activities include: billiards, (8am–noon); Bingo, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10; line dancing, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10; live music, some Wednesday mornings at 9:30; cards Tuesday–Friday afternoons; and more. A printed monthly schedule of activities is available at the Community Center and on the City of Cedar Falls website at: www.cedarfalls.com/1295/Community-Center.
www cedarfalls com/recreation www cedarfalls com/fitness bit ly/CFRecRegister
It is simple to register for activities at the Rec! Visit bit ly/CFRecRegister to sign up for aquatics, camps, fitness and wellness classes, youth sports, and much more!
Check out our fitness class schedule at cedarfalls com/fitness
CF Recreation & Fitness Center SCHOOL YEAR HOURS
Monday–Thursday 5:00am–9:00pm
Friday 5:00am–7:00pm
Saturday 7:00am–7:00pm
Sunday 11:00am–5:00pm
MEMBERSHIP & FEES
Cedar Falls Recreation & Fitness Center
Monthly Membership
Youth (17 & Under)
RESIDENT↓ NON-RESIDENT↓
$20 $35
Student (18–23) $25 $20
Adult (18–64)
$30 $55
Senior Citizen (65+) $25 $40
Family $45 $70
Annual Membership
Youth (18 & Under)
Student (19–22)
Adult (19 & Older)
RESIDENT↓ NON-RESIDENT↓
$115 $210
$155 $155
$175 $355
Senior Citizen (65+) $155 $290
Family $260 $465
Daily Admission
Youth (17 & Under)
$5
Student (18–23) $5
Adult (18–64) $10
Senior Citizen (65+) $5
Corporate Rates
Provide a letter from your employer stating your full-time employee status. A nonresident working for a business inside the Cedar Falls city limits may purchase discounted memberships. Memberships may be renewed by providing a letter each year. Individual Adult Fee: $235 / Family Fee: $310
Fitness Classes are included in your Facility Membership with the exception of a few pre-registered classes. Please visit the website or grab a flyer at the Rec Center for the most current and updated schedule of classes and class descriptions www cedarfalls com/fitness
Fitness Classes are included in your Facility Membership (with the excepMon of a few pre-registered classes.) Please visit our website or grab a flyer at the Rec Center for our most current schedule of classes and class descripMons www.cedarfalls.com/fitness FREE
FREE CLASSES (with membership):
FITNESS
OUTDOOR FITNESS AT THE PLAZA
Thank you for helping make our fourth year of outdoor fitness classes at the River Place Plaza a huge success! We are so grateful for the community support, the beautiful outdoor space, and our awesome Rec fitness team for allowing the opportunities to offer these fun, familyfriendly, FREE fitness classes. Keep an eye out for future outdoor programs and events!
ZUMBA FITNESS IS BACK AT THE REC CENTER! Join us Wednesday mornings at 10am for Zumba and Tues./Thur. at 5:30pm for Dance Fitness.
CIRCUIT WEIGHT TRAINING CLASSES
ALL FITNESS LEVELS WELCOME! Build muscle strength, definition and endurance on strength training equipment. This is the perfect class for those looking to improve and maintain bone density.
Tuesday/Thursday 10am Tuesday/Thursday 4:30pm
$16/month—Rec Members
$32/month—Non-Members
TAI CHI—ALL LEVELS
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise program that promotes strength, flexibility and balance. This is a low impact, relaxing form of exercise that is ideal for all individuals. *Chairs are available upon request.
Tuesdays & Thursdays 11am FREE with your membership!
DO YOU LOVE FITNESS & ENJOY HELPING OTHERS ON THEIR HEALTH JOURNEY?
We are adding to our Personal Training team! If you are a professional, self-motivated individual who currently holds a NCCA Accredited Personal Training certification, fill out an application at www cedarfalls com/ Applications
INDOOR CYCLING INSTRUCTOR TRAINING
Are you interested in becoming a cycling instructor, or looking to deepen your knowledge? This training will provide you with the foundations of indoor cycling and help you become a successful instructor for all participant levels. Attendees receive both practical and theoretical training by a Master instructor, a detailed training manual, certificate of completion, CEC’s and links to the Keiser Community.
Location: Cedar Falls Rec Center
Date: Sat., November 9, 2024
Time: 9am-5pm
Cost: $199.00
*Deadline to register is Oct. 11, 2024
*Space is limited. Register early! To register: Scan the QR code or call the Rec front desk at 319-273-8636.
NEW KIDS GENERATION POUND SESSION
AGES 6–12
Need a fun way to get your kids off the couch and moving? Pound is a MOVEMENT that aims to change the concept of health and fitness for today’s youth. Get ready to make fitness about self-expression, empowerment, self-love and FUN! How? By introducing alternative ways to, MOVE, ROCK, PLAY and MAKE NOISE!
Instructor: Angie Webb
October 12–November 16 on Saturday, 9–9:45am $30 per child
facebook.com/cedarfallsrecreation
facebook.com/cedarfallsrecreation
twitter.com/cfrec
instagram.com/cfrec
AQUATICS
YOUTH BASKETBALL
Registration available until program is filled.
KINDERGARTEN COED BASKETBALL
Sponsored by CF Amvets Post #49
Begins October 26 at 9am & 10am Sat. mornings
1ST & 2ND GRADE GIRLS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by 1st national Bank
Begins October 26 and January 18 at 11am Sat. mornings
1ST & 2ND GRADE BOYS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by 1st National Bank
Begins January 18 at 9am & 10am Sat. mornings
1ST & 2ND GRADE COED BASKETBALL
Sponsored by 1st National Bank
Begins January 18 at 11am Sat. mornings
3RD & 4TH GRADE BOYS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by CF Lions Club
Begins October 26 at 9am, 10am & 11am Sat. mornings
3RD & 4TH GRADE GIRLS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by CF Lions Club
Begins January 18 at 9am Sat. mornings
4TH & 5TH GRADE GIRLS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by CF Lions Club
Begins January 18 at 9am Sat. mornings
5TH & 6TH GRADE GIRLS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by Kiwanis Rough Risers
Begins January 18 at 11am Sat. mornings
5TH & 6TH GRADE BOYS BASKETBALL
Sponsored by Martin Brothers Begins January 13, Practices Mondays and/or Tuesdays after school; Games Thursday evenings
WINTER SWIM PASSES
Youth (0–17)
Senior (65+)
Adult
INDOOR PARK
Indoor Park is a drop-in program where parents of preschool age children can bring their children to the Rec Center where toys and play equipment will be available to the children providing a safe controlled climate park environment during the winter months. Indoor park is open to anyone— no membership needed! Indoor Park is not held on days Cedar Falls schools cancel due to weather, or during Cedar Falls school breaks.
Age: Parents and preschool thru Pre-K ages. (We do not allow older siblings in the gymnasium during indoor park.)
Begins: October 17
Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays
Times: 9am–2pm Fee: FREE To Members! Non-
Member Daily Rate $3 per child.
Admission fees required for children age 9 months and older.
RATE NON-RESIDENT RATE
$80
$80
$100
$85
$85
$105
For Pool Closings go to www.cedarfalls.com/ aquatics. If Cedar Falls Schools close for inclement weather, CF Rec will not open the pools for Lap or Rec Swim.
ADULT SPORTS
RACQUETBALL LEAGUE (AGE 16+)
Location: Cedar Falls Recreation and Fitness Center courts
Begins: Week of October 7
Registration Deadline: October 2–Space is limited Fee: $35.00
Description: Weekly matches are as scheduled between you and your opponent, master schedule provided by Rec Center. League is coed and will provide competitive play with a variety of players to choose from within your registered division or level of play. The Recreation Division will provide a schedule and court availability.
BASKETBALL LEAGUE (AGE 18+)
Dates: November–Mid February
Days/Times: Wednesdays, 7:00–10:00pm
Location: Various CF Schools
Registration Deadline: October 30
Fees: Call your own League $120.00
Description: 10 game season. Open League with B & C Divisions available. Teams must wear numbered jerseys or shirts.
BEGINNER SWING DANCE (AGE 16+)
With the Ostbys!
Dates: September 19–October 17
Days/Times: Thursdays, 7:00–8:00pm
Location: Cedar Falls Recreation & Fitness Center
RECREATIONAL PICKLEBALL
PLAYING TIMES @CFREC
Join us at the Cedar Falls Recreation Center. Come in from the cold Play for fun, with the other Pickleballers in attendance. Players of any level are invited at all of the following opportunities to learn, play, and enjoy this great game.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7:30–10:30am
*$5 special Pickleball price drop-in rate
Tuesdays & Thursday 6:30–8:00am
*$5 special Pickleball price drop-in rate
Tuesdays 6:30–8:30pm
Regular Facility Admission Prices Apply
......OR PLAY AS MANY TIMES AS YOU LIKE at The Rec! CF Recreation and Fitness Center Members FREE.
DROP IN ADULT BASKETBALL TIME
Looking for a pick up game? The main gym is closed to youth Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11:00am–1:00pm for adult drop-in use.
Public pools are available throughout the school year on most Saturday and Sunday evenings after 4pm for private parties. Reservations must be made two weeks in advance and are dependent on availability. Rates: $75/hr for parties up to 75 people; $90/hr for parties over 75 people.
SCUBA & SNORKELING
12–2pm on the second Sunday of each month at Peet Pool. Reservations made by calling Scuba Too at 319-268-4201.
Discover Snorkeling
$27/day + admission
Introductory snorkeling class designed to teach necessary skills for a safe and enjoyable experience in the underwater world. Equipment is provided.
Scuba Sunday
$10, payable in advance to Scuba Too
For anyone eight years+ wishing to use their own equipment to practice scuba skills.
Scuba Tune Up
$57, payable in advance to Scuba Too
This class is designed to review and update your Scuba knowledge and skills. Must have proof of certification as a scuba diver.
Discover Scuba
$42 (includes equipment), payable in advance to Scuba Too
Let our instructor introduce you to scuba diving in a safe, controlled environment. You must be at least 8 years old and complete/sign a Discover Scuba statement.
City of Cedar Falls
220 Clay Street
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Trick-or-Treat
Halloween in Cedar Falls
With fun Halloween activities, events, and more happening all October long, we invite you to celebrate SPOOKTOBER in Cedar Falls!
Trick-or-treat in Cedar Falls will be on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Mayor’s Halloween House Decorating Contest
The community is invited to get in the spirit with the Mayor’s Halloween House Decorating Contest!
Think you have the spookiest decorated house in Cedar Falls? Submit your house through October 6 at bit.ly/CFSpooktober to be part of the tour. Starting October 11, the public will be able to download a tour map at bit.ly/CFSpooktober or pick up a map at the Visitor Center (6510 Hudson Road) and City Hall (220 Clay Street). Submit your vote for the best house at bit.ly/CFSpooktober from October 11–25 and follow the City of Cedar Falls @citycf on Facebook to stay updated on the winners!
SPOOKTOBER Activities
It’s ghostly fun for the whole family! Throughout October, the Hearst Center for the Arts, the Cedar Falls Public Library, Cedar Falls Tourism, and the Cedar Falls Rec Center have you covered with Halloween activities for all ages. Visit bit.ly/CFSpooktober for a full list of activities, events, and workshops or click the QR Code above. You can also find them on Facebook to stay updated on all their great events year-round (view the list of City social media addresses on page 3 of Currents).
Halloween Safety
As we enjoy the Halloween season, Cedar Falls Public Safety reminds the community to stay safe with these important tips.
• Wear bright and reflective costumes. Also, make sure costumes fit well to prevent tripping.
• Use Trick-or-Treat bags with the ability to reflect light. Reflective tape can help.
• Choose costumes, wigs, and accessories, that clearly indicate they are flame resistant.
• Have Trick-or-Treaters use flashlights so they are easily seen.
• Only Trick-or-Treat in areas the child is familiar with.
• Only cross streets at a crosswalk. Drivers must also be aware on Trick-or-Treat night to slow down and be prepared to stop.
• When carving pumpkins parents should be present to assist. If the child is too young, the parent or adult should do the carving.
• Consider using a flashlight or glow stick instead of a candle to light your pumpkin.
• Homeowners should remove anything from their porch or front yard that could be a tripping hazard.
• Restrain pets so they cannot jump out or bite anyone.
• An adult should always accompany young children. Teach your child to never enter a stranger’s home or car and instruct them not to eat any treats before you return home.
• Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices away while walking, and to stay alert for drivers while crossing the street. Drivers should put electronic devices away while driving, and enter and exit driveways and alleyways carefully.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!
Postal Customer
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Panthers on Parade on Display Through October
The clock is ticking—have you tracked down all 27 TCs yet? Thousands of people have begun seeking them out, and over 150 groups of explorers have conquered the challenge and registered to win great prizes. Don’t miss your chance to get in on the action! Grab a map or download the Goosechase app to locate each TC, tackle the trivia questions, and complete your adventure.
When your trivia is complete, simply stop into the Cedar Falls Visitor Center or Hearst Center for the Arts to register for the grand prize drawing to be held in early November.
As a grand finale to this fun community project, you can get in on the excitement of the UNI Homecoming Parade on Saturday, October 26, featuring the theme: Panthers on Parade!
Remember, after October, some TCs might relocate based on our sponsors’ wishes, so keep an eye on panthersonparade.com for the latest updates.
Everyone needs assistance at some point in life. Knowing where to turn, can help ease the stress that may come with this. Recently, a Community Resource Directory was added to the City website at www.cedarfalls.com/communityresources. The directory lists resources ranging from basic needs to food insecurity and more.
