Daily
Des Moines
Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ West Des Moines city leaders celebrated the Tech Connect program's success last month as teenage mentors helped seniors, families, and students learn safe technology use in multiple locations. Google and Microsoft funded the initiative (support that aims to boost digital skills and guard against online scams). KCCI
- ➤ Scouting America's military support is threatened as the Department of Defense demands rollback of changes tied to diversity and social justice—an action that could soon disrupt Camp Dodge visits. Local scouting and National Guard leaders warn that lost military access may affect recruiting and community service projects in Iowa. KCCI
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ IPR Director Myrna Johnson will retire in July after 12 years at the station, leaving IPR in good financial shape following a challenging funding period. The board will soon start a national search to name her successor. The Des Moines Register
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ An Iowa House committee will debate a bill that requires UI, ISU, and UNI to offer the same tuition rate for up to four years to Iowa residents. Representative Taylor Collins (from Mediapolis) says the measure aims to give students cost certainty similar to Drake University's plan. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Today, the Iowa House Education Committee approved a bill that would remove vaccine requirements for public K-12 students, giving parents full decision-making & prompting warnings from health experts about a potential rise in preventable illnesses. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Registration is now open for a six-week Career Ready Collective program helping high school students build career skills in Greater Des Moines — the sessions run from June 12 to July 24 and registration closes May 31 to secure a spot. Downtown Des Moines
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ State climatologist Justin Glisan said Iowa had a snow drought with only 2.3 inches statewide, about 6 inches below average, following heavy snows after Thanksgiving. He warned that lighter snowfall may reduce runoff and challenge farmers if rain continues. Radio Iowa
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Iowa lawmakers advanced a bill requiring schools, community colleges and state universities to report how they handle antisemitism—David Adelman noted an 84% surge on college campuses, while some educators argue the bill’s broad definition may limit free speech. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Crews in Johnston are repairing a water main break that occurred Tuesday and limiting one lane on Northwest Beaver Drive near Northwest 90th Ave. The lane restriction is expected to remain for several days until repairs are complete. KCCI
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The American Heart Association is urging Iowans to learn CPR as heart disease claims over 7,000 lives each year. Free in-person and virtual courses and events such as Friday’s Wear Red Day will help residents act as first responders until EMS arrives. Radio Iowa
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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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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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Iowa Wild Pink in the Rink Night
6 p.m. — Casey's Center — Ticket prices from $30 — Cheer on the Iowa Wild as they face off against the Springfield Thunderbirds for a fun-filled night of hockey and community spirit.
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Koo Koo Concert
1-5 p.m. — xBk Live — Tickets available — Experience an exciting concert by Koo Koo in Des Moines.
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Disenchanted! The Hit Musical Comedy
7-9 p.m. — Temple Theater — Cost info not specified — Enjoy a hilarious twist on storybook princesses as they set the record straight in this hit musical comedy.
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Baby Safety Class
11:30 PM - 2:00 AM — Visitor Parking Ramp — Registration required — Learn vital tips on baby-proofing your home and nursery safety from experts.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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