Good morning, Des Moines.

Des Moines city officials have planned phase one of a $54.4 million project to upgrade Birdland Park by repairing a 0.4-mile flood-prone section of the Neal Smith Trail and adding a boat launch, fishing docks and shelters, with construction set to begin late spring 2026.

Pulitzer-prize winning editor Richard Green started as regional president and publisher for The Gazette and 11 community newspapers on Monday, leading local news coverage in Iowa.

He brings extensive experience from major media roles and plans to settle in Cedar Rapids for stronger community ties.

Presidents Day is a federal holiday observed on Feb.

16, so banks, post offices, and stock exchanges will close while some local schools hold classes and others host teacher training days; many retailers plan holiday sales.

Beth Townsend from Iowa Workforce Development said December figures show the unemployment rate stayed at 3.5% while labor force participation rose to 67.7%; the report noted 400 fewer unemployed & 5,000 more workers than November, despite job losses in retail & manufacturing.

Environmental groups say Iowa's manure management plans lack strict oversight to protect local waterways, while some farmers argue the system prevents overuse and controls fertilizer costs.

The state continues to enforce audits and pursue corrective actions to ensure water quality remains intact.

WalletHub has ranked Iowa 10th among U.S. states for retirement in 2026, based on affordability, job opportunities for older adults, and low property crime (an improvement from last year's 16th ranking yet lower than its 4th ranking in 2018).

A review by the Common Sense Institute found that over 95% of nearly $2.5 billion in reserves from Iowa cities, counties, and schools was invested out-of-state last year — a change to keep funds in Iowa banks could boost returns and create up to 8,500 jobs by the end of this decade.

Iowa state Sen. Catelin Drey announced she has stage one uterine cancer and will have a hysterectomy today in Woodbury County.

She said she will be hospitalized overnight and will return to work once she recovers.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!

Reading Challenge Book Club

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Dive into a captivating mystery with 'The Busybody Book Club' by Freya Sampson.

US Custom Harvesters Show

January 29-31 — Iowa Events Center — Cost info not specified — Explore a variety of vendors and enjoy live auctions for harvesters.

Des Moines Real Estate Investing Coffee Meetup

7-9 a.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Casual discussions on real estate investing with local enthusiasts over coffee.

Couple Shuffle - Des Moines

2-9 p.m. — Aeroporto Internacional de Des Moines — Registration fees apply — Celebrate love with a Valentine-themed family fun run featuring multiple distances and festive activities.

Dungeons & Dragons Monthly Gathering

12:30-3:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Immerse yourself in a fantastical D&D adventure with new friends and seasoned players.

Writers' Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — No registration required — Share your writing and receive constructive feedback in a supportive environment.

Wayne Hancock Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — xBk Live — Ticket info available — Experience the master of hillbilly swing in a vibrant live setting.

Andrew Hoyt Live at the Iowa Newspaper Foundation Convention

5-9 p.m. — Des Moines Marriott Downtown — Cost info not provided — Experience the musical talents of local singer/songwriter Andrew Hoyt in an engaging convention setting.

Candlelight Concert: The Beatles

6 p.m. — World Food Prize Hall of Laureates — $37.63 — Experience The Beatles' hits illuminated by candlelight in a stunning venue.

Iowa Wolves Basketball For All Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — 730 3rd St, Des Moines, IA — Special discounted tickets available — Enjoy an inclusive family basketball night with a sensory-friendly environment.