Friday Facts April 10, 2026

From Student to CEO - Des Moines County CEO Program

The Des Moines County CEO Program is a hands-on, year-long experience that empowers high school students to build real-world business and leadership skills by launching and running their own businesses. Students connect with local entrepreneurs, tour area businesses, and discover career opportunities right here in our community. You don’t want to miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind experience, apply now!

When: Application Deadline April 30

Where: Participating Des Moines County High Schools

For More Information Contact: Email, Website

Take the Spring 2026 Small Business Survey

Share your perspective. Your voice matters! Running a small business has never been easy, and today’s challenges are bigger than ever. From rising costs and staffing shortages to changing customer expectations and economic uncertainty, Main Street America wants to hear directly from you. You’re invited to take a short survey and share the realities you’re facing. Your input will help shape future resources, programs, and advocacy efforts designed to support small businesses in meaningful, practical ways.

The survey only takes a few minutes, and you don’t need to be located in a Main Street district to participate. We want to hear from everyone! Every small business perspective is incredibly valuable.

Access Survey HERE; Deadline April 13

For More Information Contact: Amy Moyner, 319-208-0056

Highway 61 Coalition Presentation Tuesday

You're invited to attend the Highway 61 Coalition presentation to the Iowa Transportation Commission this Tuesday, April 14 at 8 AM at the Quality Inn & Suites, 1669 Reve Court, in Fort Madison.

For More Information Contact: Taylor Collins, 319-208-0050

Chamber Members - Keep Current & Accurate

Did you know that InfoHub accounts can be used to update Chamber member directory information, share job postings, hot deals, manage invoices, register for events and keep your membership information current and accurate including employees and contact information. Take a few minutes to sign up and/or login today and check your account.

For more information contact: Melissa Jones, 319-208-0052, InfoHub Login

Madrid to Barcelona -

Explore the Best of Spain

Embark on an unforgettable group tour through Spain, exploring the vibrant cities of Andalucía and the Mediterranean coast, from Seville and Granada to Valencia and Barcelona.

Begin in Madrid, a capital bursting with energy and iconic landmarks like Puerta del Sol and the Royal Palace. Travel through scenic vineyards to Córdoba, then on to Seville to experience its stunning cathedral and charming historic districts. Marvel at the breathtaking Alhambra in Granada before heading along the coast to Valencia, home of authentic paella.

Finish in Barcelona, where the bold architecture of Antoni Gaudí, including the famous Sagrada Familia, meets a rich arts and cultural scene, ending your Spanish adventure on a truly unforgettable note.

For more information contact: Brenda Levitt, visit this LINK to download the brochure with the complete 10-day tour guide, or scan the QR code above.

Registration Deadline: June 2; Tour Departs: October 2

SEIBA 32nd Annual Hog Roast & Auction

What: The Southeast Iowa Builders Association invites you to the 32nd Annual Hog Roast & Auction, an evening packed with great food, community spirit, and a cause that truly matters. Tickets are just $25 at the door and include an all-you-can-eat hog roast dinner with all the fixings: potato salad, baked beans, coleslaw, chips, plus soda and keg beer. A cash bar will also be available. This event directly supports local scholarships and provides grants to area schools, helping strengthen construction technology programs and invest in the next generation of skilled trades. The Event Center will be full, so make plans to join us. Bring your customers, employees, and friends, and be part of a night that gives back while celebrating the trades.

When: April 10, 6 PM Dinner; Auction to follow

Where: Catfish Bend Convention & Event Center, 3001 Winegard Dr

For More Information: Email, 319-753-8787, Website

The Cat in the Hat Live

What: Step into the whirlwind fun of The Cat in the Hat Live! Watch as Dr. Seuss’s beloved story bursts off the page and onto the stage, following Sally, her brother, and their overly cautious pet Fish, Carlos K. Krinklebine, on a rainy day, until the mischievous Cat in the Hat turns everything upside down. A colorful, chaotic adventure the whole family will love! Tickets start at just $20!

When: April 11, 6 PM

Where: Memorial Auditorium, 200 N Front St

For More Information: Email, Facebook, TICKETS

Players Workshop Season Announcement Party

What: Players Workshop is excited to request the honor of your presence at its free 2026-2027 Season Announcement Party, featuring a show-themed "mocktail hour," mingling with Players Workshop personnel, a chance to purchase season tickets at last season's prices (and get a PW swag bag), and culminating with a video announcing the upcoming theatrical season, something you won't want to miss.

When: April 11, 4 - 6 PM

Where: Players Workshop, 1431 Grove St

For More Information: Email, 319-753-6623, Website

Donate Life Run/Walk

What: Support the Iowa Donor Network and Des Moines County Conservation at the Donate Life Run/Walk. Choose between a 1-mile, and a 5K fun run/walk. Half of the proceeds are being donated to the Iowa Donor Network directly while the other half are in support of your county parks!

When: April 11, 9 AM Start

Where: Starr's Cave Nature Center, 11627 Starr's Cave Rd

For More Information: Email, 319-753-5808, Website

QuickBooks Online Software Training

What: This course makes it easy to become comfortable using QuickBooks®. Learn how to set up your chart of accounts, manage customers and vendors, create invoices, track sales, and handle expenses such as bills and credit card transactions. You’ll also learn to reconcile accounts, track loans and assets, and use reports to monitor business performance and prepare for tax time.

When: April 13 & 15, 1 - 5 PM

Where: SCC CBIZ, 610 N 4th St, Suite 120

For More Information: Email, 319-208-5375, Website

Blogging for Business

What: Your story matters — and your blog can be the place where it comes to life. Learn to create and manage a blog that drives engagement and builds your brand. This course covers blogging strategy, content planning, writing for your audience, search engine optimization (SEO) basics, and how to share your posts across social media in a way that extends your reach. This class is ideal for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to use blogging to attract and retain customers.

When: April 13 & 15, 6 - 8 PM

Where: SCC West Burlington Campus, 1500 W Agency Rd

For More Information: Email, 319-208-5375, Website

Wildflower Hike

What: Get ready to explore the wild side at our guided Wildflower Hike at Starr’s Cave Nature Center! We will meet at the shelter house before heading out to discover edible, "and not-so-edible" plants. During this hands-on hike, you’ll learn to safely identify common spring wildflowers and wild edibles while enjoying fun facts and gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you. This free event requires no registration but registration is encouraged and can be done HERE.

When: April 14, 5:30 - 6:30 PM

Where: Starr's Cave Nature Center, 11627 Starr's Cave Rd

For More Information: Email, 319-753-5808, Website

Super Sitter Class

What: This course is designed to give boys and girls aged 11 years and older the knowledge and experience to become super babysitters. Safety, first aid, positive guidance, and play activities will be emphasized.

When: April 14 & 15, 5 - 8 PM

Where: SCC CBIZ, 610 N 4th St, Suite 120

For More Information: Email, 319-208-5375, Website

Excel Basics

What: Work with numbers? Then you need to learn Excel. In this class, you will use Excel and discover dozens of shortcuts and tricks for setting up fully formatted worksheets quickly and efficiently. You'll benefit from hands-on activities covering creating and editing workbooks, modifying worksheets, using calculations, formatting worksheets, and managing large workbooks. Experience with Windows is recommended. New users of previous Excel versions will also benefit.

When: April 14 & 16, 1 - 5 PM

Where: SCC CBIZ, 610 N 4th St, Suite 120

For More Information: Email, 319-208-5375, Website

West Burlington Downtown & Mall Walk-Around

What: Join the City of West Burlington on April 15th for a Downtown & Mall Walk Around as we explore opportunities to strengthen and enhance our community! We’ll be joined by Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) representatives, including the Downtown Resource Center, as we take a closer look at strategies to improve our downtown and the area in and around the mall. These walk-arounds help identify strengths, challenges, and practical revitalization ideas to support long-term community growth.

When: April 15, 1 - 3 PM Meeting & Walk-Around; 5 PM Community Presentation

Where: West Burlington City Hall, Downtown West Burlington & Westland Mall

For More Information: Email

Clean Out Your Files Day

What: Plan now to clear out the paper clutter, pack up those boxes, & collect the piles of unneeded invoices/statements from your business or home and bring them to Clean Out Your Files Day 2026! NO LIMIT to regular paper and corrugated box recycling, but a LIMIT of ONE copy paper sized box or sack of items to be collected for confidential shredding by Quincy Recycling. Paper clips & staples accepted, paperback books accepted. No binder clips, plastic folders, construction paper, or spiral notebooks.

When: April 16, 8 AM - 2 PM

Where: Area Recyclers Facility, 1818 W Burlington Ave

For More Information: Email, 319-753-8126, Facebook

Save the Date: 100 Like Minds Spring Social

What: Enjoy socializing, drinks, and appetizers at the 100+ Like Minds Spring Social. Entertainment provided by Daniel Pappas, Ed Mansheim, and Hailey Ramatowski. Bring your annual $100 donation to the Margaret Hansen Community Impact Fund, which also includes admission to the Fall event. Join us in celebrating the impact CFDMC has made over the last 20 years. Donations of $250 and over are eligible for a 25% Endow Iowa Tax Credit.

When: April 16

Where: Art Center of Burlington in the Gallery Lounge

For More Information: Email, 319-572-1125, Facebook

Burlington Riverfront Entertainment Brewfest

What: BRE Brewfest is back and it’s time to raise a glass! Sample brews from a wide lineup of Iowa favorites and national names like Front Street Brewery, Olathe Winery, Field Day Brewing, Big Grove Brewery, and our own Busted Cup Brewery, with more to be announced soon. Want a head start on the fun? Grab an Early Entry Access Pass, limited to the first 30 buyers, and get in at Noon to beat the rush and enjoy the brews before the crowd rolls in.

When: April 18, VIP (early access) enter at Noon; General Admission at 1 PM

Where: Memorial Auditorium, 200 N Front St

For More Information: Email, Facebook, TICKETS

Earth Day Cleanup 2026

Let’s team up to Keep Burlington Beautiful! Grab your friends, family, or coworkers and help make a difference in our community. We’ll provide the supplies—you bring the energy. Meet at the Port of Burlington between 8 & 9 AM to get started, then stick around after the cleanup for a light lunch on us.

When: April 16, 8 AM

Where: Port of Burlington, 400 N Front St

For More Information: Facebook

Puzzle & Guzzle - Burlington Eagles 150

What: Grab your most puzzling friends for our first ever Puzzle & Guzzle at the Eagles 150 (in the social room/bar area). Teams of 4 race to crush a 300-piece puzzle in 120 minutes while the music is jamming and the drinks are flowing! We will pause for social cheers, shot breaks, and yes, buying your opponents a round of drinks to slow their progress is not just allowed... it's ENCOURAGED! Cash prizes to the top 2 teams! $25 Per Person ($100 per team). Registration includes your identical 300-piece puzzle.

When: April 18, 6 - 8 PM

Where: Burlington Eagles 150, 2727 Mount Pleasant St

For More Information: Email, Facebook

Grilled Cheese Saturday

What: Come get a Hinterland Dairy grilled cheese sandwich on April 18 from 11 AM -1 PM. Sandwiches are $5 each and proceeds go toward Old Fort Madison Preservation.

When: April 18, 11 AM - 1 PM

Where: Hinterland Dairy, 2149 Franklin Rd, Donnellson

For More Information: Email, 319-470-6819, Website

Moped Safety

What: A certified moped course must be completed by anyone 14 or 15 years of age wishing to obtain a moped license in Iowa. Certificates will be issued to those who successfully complete the course. Students should bring a sack lunch.

When: April 18, 8 AM - 2:30 PM

Where: SCC West Burlington Campus, 1500 W Agency Rd

For More Information: Email, 319-208-5375, Website

Get ServSafe® Certified in Burlington

What: Ready to boost your food safety knowledge and meet Iowa's food code requirements? Sign up for a ServSafe® Manager Certification Course and Exam with Serving it Safe with Ann, LLC! This course provides everything you need to become a certified food protection manager. Sign up today and secure your spot!

When: Register Today; Class Date: April 20, 8 AM - 4 PM

Where: F&M Bank & Trust Building, 218 N 3rd St, Suite 216

For More Information: Email, 319-931-7931

2026 Woman of Distinction Celebration

What: Michelle AbouAssaly, from Burlington, Iowa, has been named the 2026 Woman of Distinction by Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. Annually, a woman from the community is selected for her dedication to making the world a better place. On April 23, at Catfish Bend Event Center, AbouAssaly will be recognized for her award at a community celebration.

When: April 23, 5 - 8 PM

Where: Catfish Bend Inn & Suites, Winegard Drive

For More Information: Email, 309-752-3639, Facebook

Burlington Civic Music Presents the Brubeck Brothers Quartet

What: What if you could hear one of the most legendary jazz songs ever written…performed live by a Brubeck? Don’t miss the Brubeck Brothers Quartet. Burlington Civic Music presents this unforgettable night of world-class jazz featuring Chris Brubeck, son of jazz icon Dave Brubeck, bringing the legendary sound and energy of classics like Take Five to life on stage. Tickets available HERE.

When: April 24, 7 PM

Where: The Capitol Theater, 211 N 3rd St

For More Information: Email, Website

Dracula Comedy to Close Players Workshop Season

What: Players Workshop will close the 2025-26 regular season with "Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors," a hilarious, gender-bending blend of comedy and camp based loosely (very loosely) on the novel "Dracula" by Bram Stoker, written by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen. Described as "the love child of Mel Brook and Monty Python," this production of the famous story is rated PG13 and contains strong sexual content and adult humor.

When: April 24, 25, 30, and May 1 & 2 at 7 PM; April 26 & May 3 at 2 PM

Where: Players Workshop, 1431 Grove St

For More Information: Email, 319-759-6623, Website, Facebook

Spring Event at Huffman's Farm & Home

What: Join us for Huffman’s Farm & Home Spring Event featuring free lunch, big savings, mower test drives from Cub Cadet and STIHL, giveaways, and more! Stop by any of our three locations in Fort Madison, West Burlington, or Aledo. Enjoy a FREE hat with every test drive while supplies last.

When: April 25, 9 Am - 3 PM

Where: Huffman's Farm & Home, 201 E Agency Rd, West Burlington

For More Information: Email, Website

Catfish Bend Spring Craft & Vendor Show

What: Spring is in the air, and so is shopping season at the Catfish Bend Spring Craft & Vendor Show! Browse over 50 unique vendors offering everything from handmade goods to one-of-a-kind finds. It’s the perfect place to discover a thoughtful, meaningful gift just in time for Mother’s Day, or while you're at it, treat yourself to something special!

When: April 25, 9 AM - 3 PM

Where: Catfish Bend Convention & Event Center, 3001 Winegard Dr

For More Information: 319-753-2946, Website

Registration Now Open for City of Burlington Day Camp

What: Our Summer Day Camp is packed with fun outdoor activities at Perkins Park, and exciting weekly field trips. Families can register week-by-week or for the entire summer for added flexibility. Each day includes a mix of active play, arts and crafts, and downtime, with lunch and snacks provided. Register HERE.

Where: Perkins Park, 1429 West Ave

For More Information: Email, 319-753-8131, Facebook, Website

Discover How You Actually Sleep

What: If you wake up in the morning sore or tired, your mattress could be the reason. Our pressure mapping system visually shows pressure points and support levels in real time, helping you find a mattress that truly fits your body. It takes the guesswork out of buying a mattress and replaces it with real results. No other store shows you what your body is telling you and you can only find out at Slumberland Furniture here in Burlington.

Where: Slumberland Furniture, 3150 Agency St (next to Hy-Vee on Agency)

For More Information: Email, 319-754-8877, Facebook

April at Alchemy Skin & Health

What: Treat yourself to April's Offerings at Alchemy - No Fooling! Free hands & chest with a regular Cool Peel Rosacea IPL + Hydrinity Calming Duo, Save $50; New Xeomin Patients receive $50 off first Treatment; Melasma Pico Laser Treatment + Skin Better Science Peel, save $50; and Skinwave + RF Microneedling, save $50.

When: June 2026

Where: Alchemy Skin + Health, 1601 N Roosevelt

For More Information: Email

The Busted Cup Brewery Expands to Macomb, IL

What: The Busted Cup Brewery is proud to announce the upcoming opening of its second location in Macomb, IL. With a tentative mid-June debut, the new space will introduce a vibrant taproom experience centered around the brewery’s signature craft beers. The Macomb location will operate primarily as a taproom, offering guests a relaxed, welcoming environment to gather, unwind, and to enjoy locally crafted Busted Cup beer. Read the full press release HERE!

When: June 2026

Where: 324 N Lafayette St, Macomb, IL

For More Information: Email, 319-671-7040, Website

Bear T-Shirt Designs at Danville Community School District

What: The Danville School District has a Design and Production class dedicated to working with local businesses to design T-shirts. Do you have an event or a merchandise order soon? Consider Contacting Michael Rogers or Wade Samples at Danville CSD to see if their Design and Production class can help you out! They are super affordable and have a quick turnaround. Help support our local schools!

Contact: Michael or Wade

Where: Danville Community School District

For More Information: Email

Cash Explosion at Catfish Bend Casino

What: Detonate exciting prizes this April, with our Cash Explosion Drawings! Try your luck for the chance to win big cash prizes! DRAWING PRIZES: $100 - $1,000 in Cash Resort Club members can receive electronic drawing entries from the dates above. 1 electronic entry will be earned for every 50 points earned each gaming day. 6x electronic entries for every 50 points can be earned on Mondays and Tuesdays during the promotional period. See Resort Club for details.

When: Fridays in April starting at 7 PM, Check-in 5 - 9:55 PM

Where: Catfish Bend Casino, 3001 Winegard Dr

For More Information: 319-753-2946, Website

Check Out Taco John's New Meal Steals

What: Corrick Vision and partners, proud owners of Taco John’s in Burlington, Iowa, have been officially recognized as the top franchisee in the system for their outstanding performance throughout 2025.

This prestigious honor, awarded by Taco John’s International, Inc., celebrates the team’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. “We’re incredibly proud of our team and grateful to our loyal guests who made this achievement possible,” said Bill Corrick, President of Corrick Vision.

To mark the occasion, the Burlington location is undergoing a bold transformation that reflects the vibrant West-Mex™ feel of the brand. Guests can look forward to:

Eye-catching new signage and exterior enhancements Modern interior upgrades, including stylish furniture, sleek flooring, refreshed ceilings and walls, and a redesigned front counter.

The drive-thru experience is also getting a high-tech boost with a new AI ordering system for faster, smoother service. This advanced communication technology ensures clear voice interactions with improved understanding during the ordering process.

Celebrate the refreshed Taco John’s Burlington by stopping in for a limited-time $5 Meal Deal featuring a Crispy Taco, Burrito, Potato Olés®, and a Drink, all for just $5.

Where: Taco Johns, 119 S Roosevelt Ave

For More Information: Email, 319-671-7040 ext. 408, Website, Facebook

Choose Your Adventure at the YMCA's Camp McBride

What: Camp McBride is your child’s ultimate summer day camp destination. Each day is packed with opportunities to explore, learn, and connect. These weekly camps offer themed games & activities in addition to nature discovery and new friends! From canoeing and swimming to hiking, fishing, archery and more, every moment at Camp McBride is filled with fun. Choose one week or attend them all, but don't delay. Spots are limited.

When: Register Now; Candy bar fundraiser is available through April 30; Camp Starts June 8

Where: Burlington Area YMCA, 2410 Mount Pleasant St

For More Information: Email, 319-753-6734, Website

YMCA Summer Day Camp Registration Underway

What: Get ready for an unforgettable summer with Safari Voyage and Quest Summer Day Camps at the YMCA, where adventure, activity, and fun never stop! From exciting field trips to movies, roller skating, bowling, swimming, and so much more, your kids will stay active, make new friends, and create lasting memories all summer long. These camps are open to youth entering 1st – 6th grade in Fall of 2026. Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait!

When: Register Now; Camp Starts June 8

Where: Burlington Area YMCA, 2410 Mount Pleasant St

For More Information: Email, 319-753-6734 ext. 128, Website

Sell Candy - Go to YMCA Camp

What: YMCA Summer Day Camp registrations are in full swing, and campers can sell candy bars to help raise money toward their camp fees! Once your camper is registered, you can start selling your way to camp! Choose from Safari Voyage Quest at the YMCA or Camp McBride with 8 themed weeks of outdoor fun. Camps and candy bars are first-come, first-served so sign up TODAY!

Where: Burlington Area YMCA, 2410 Mount Pleasant St

For More Information: Email, 319-753-6734 ext. 128, Facebook

Joe-To-Go, Lucky Street, and Shake Alley Present Cheesecake Month

What: Celebrate Cheesecake Month all month long at Joe-To-Go, Lucky Street, and Shake Alley. Indulge your sweet tooth with Oreo Cheesecake for $8, rich Turtle Cheesecake for $10, or fresh Strawberry Cheesecake for $8 at Joe-To-Go and Lucky Street. Over at Shake Alley, take your milkshake to the next level, add a slice of cheesecake to any shake for just $2 and turn your favorite flavor into the ultimate dessert treat.

When: All of April

Where: Joe-To-Go, Lucky Street, and Shake Alley, 3001 Winegard Dr

For More Information: 319-753-2946, Website

Reserve Space and Bring Your Crew to The Hive

What: Get your group together and experience the excitement of the Burlington Bees this summer! Whether it's a company outing, night for clients, birthday party or a get-together with friends, the Bees offer the perfect space to make it memorable. Choose from our climate-controlled suite, fan-favorite 3rd Base rooftop, the spacious party pavilion or Stingerz Landing. With flexible ticket options, food packages and unbeatable views of the ballpark, there's an experience for every size & budget. Spots fill quickly so lock in your outing NOW!

Where: Community Field, 2712 Mount Pleasant St

For More Information: Email, 319-754-5705 Monday - Friday, 10 AM - 2 PM

Now Accepting Waitlist Applications

What: Alice Place Senior Living is a brand-new, affordable housing community with 1 and 2-bedroom homes. Enjoy bright, modern layouts with in-unit laundry, fully equipped kitchens, ceiling fans, secure building access, and beautiful community spaces. Your pet is part of the family here too, and we even have a fenced in pet area just for them. Apply to secure your spot today! Income limits apply.

When: Through May

Where: Alice Place Senior Living, 813 West Van Weiss Blvd, West Burlington

For More Information: Email, 319-504-1339, Facebook