Daily
Des Moines
Saturday, January 31st, 2026
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 31st of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ House Inspiration, a transitional recovery home for women near Keo Way and University Avenue, held an open house Friday; seven women meeting the 30-day recovery and job requirement will move in February—founder Maggie Spellman, who overcame homelessness and addiction, aims to provide essential support. KCCI
- ➤ KCCI-TV will partner with Variety for the 52nd telethon on Tuesday, Feb. 24 + viewers will hear inspiring stories that highlight inclusion and community support. The broadcast spotlights the Variety Star Inclusive Playground and efforts to empower children of all abilities. KCCI
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Yuengling beer will be available on Monday, Feb. 2 with a launch party at High Life Lounge on Second Street from 6 to 10 a.m.; packaged beers will hit stores statewide starting March 23. KCCI
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Sioux City native Ann Morrison stars in the Tony Award winning musical Kimberly Akimbo next week at the Des Moines Civic Center — the production features eight shows from Tuesday through Sunday. Radio Iowa
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Iowa lawmakers are considering House Study Bill 545 so the Board of Regents can study reviving VEISHEA - a student-run campus tradition canceled after unrest, with ISU students supporting a safer return to create new memories. KCCI
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ As temperatures rise this weekend, the Iowa DNR warns that ice on lakes, ponds, and rivers may be weakening beneath the surface—even if it appears safe—and advises checking ice thickness and carrying safety gear. Officials stress never to venture alone on frozen waters. KCCI
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Retired federal judge Robert Pratt of Des Moines died on Wednesday at 78, according to The Harkin Institute. He served as chief judge from 2006 to 2011 and took senior status in 2012 — with retired Sen. Tom Harkin praising his law commitment. KCCI
- ➤ Iowa Lottery reported nearly $244 million in December sales, a 12.25% jump from last December and over 18% above fiscal projections. The agency returned $51.9 million in proceeds (a 24.1% rise) to the state bank account for the first half of fiscal '26. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig is asking lawmakers for a $300,000 boost to the Choose Iowa program that supports local food and craft producers. He testified last year and said new hires would help members expand into retail distribution. Radio Iowa
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Gov. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced plans to award more than $78.6 million in federal funds to 36 rural hospitals to buy new equipment and recruit staff — steps meant to boost access to quality rural health care. KCCI
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Colder temperatures after a warm spell have helped thicken ice on several lakes as local anglers see improving conditions. Iowa DNR conservation officer Nate Carr said ice fishing had been slow so far, but better conditions may come before winter ends. Radio Iowa
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Severe winter weather kept the Des Moines Christian School cheer squad from traveling to nationals (Jan. 23-25, Fort Worth, Texas), so they competed remotely and earned second place in the intermediate varsity division. KCCI
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New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness
This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!
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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.
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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.
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Wayne Hancock Live Performance
7-9 p.m. — xBk Live — Ticket info available — Experience the master of hillbilly swing in a vibrant live setting.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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TV Buddha Live Performance
6-7 p.m. — xBk Live — Tickets start at $38 — Enjoy an unforgettable evening with the band TV Buddha in Des Moines.
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Baby Rhyme Time
9:30-10:00 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy rhymes, songs, and stories for caregivers and babies aged 0-18 months.
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Iowa VMA Winter Conference
7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — The Meadows Events & Conference Center — $149/night for hotel — Engage with veterinary professionals at this comprehensive conference featuring sessions and networking opportunities.
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Play and Learn Group
10 AM – 12 PM — Forest Avenue Library — Free entry — Discover, learn, and play with interactive toys and activities for children ages 0-5.
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