Good morning, Des Moines.

Mardi Gras will be celebrated on Tuesday, Feb.

17 + Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, paving the way for Easter on Sunday, April 5.

West Des Moines Community Schools held a forum at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Learning Resource Center on Mills Civic Parkway to discuss plans for alternative education after deciding the Walnut Creek Campus would not operate as a standalone school next school year.

Governor Kim Reynolds proposed a bill to align state funding for charter schools with that for district schools, letting charter students join athletics and letting new teachers count experience toward a standard license.

HSB 676, unveiled at Great Oaks High, could shift funds for media, special education and teacher salaries.

Iowa farmers can learn about agrivoltaics (combining solar panels with crops, livestock, and beekeeping) in a free webinar by the Center for Rural Affairs starting at noon today.

The hour-long session will share research, model ordinances, and resources on dual-use agriculture.

Gov. Kim Reynolds introduced new school choice legislation that will let per-pupil funding follow students to public charter schools.

Lawmakers will review the proposal soon to expand education options for families.

Iowa lawmakers advanced legislation to expand subacute mental health care access by removing the 10-day stay limit in House File 2220 and introducing similar changes through a Senate measure.

Lawmakers will debate the bills later — a move supported by advocates citing years of limited treatment options.

The Iowa National Guard is hosting welcome home ceremonies today for 250 soldiers returning from a Middle East mission (Operation Inherent Resolve).

Ceremonies will take place in Des Moines at 3 and 5 p.m. and in Sioux City at 1:45 p.m.

Crews are making progress tearing down the Wallace Building near the Statehouse on East 9th and Des Moines streets.

State leaders approved the demolition last year due to high repair costs — efforts continue today.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

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.

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.

Koo Koo Concert

1-5 p.m. — xBk Live — Tickets available — Experience an exciting concert by Koo Koo in Des Moines.

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.

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.

Winnie The Pooh

7-11 p.m. — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved adventures of Winnie The Pooh in a delightful children's theater performance.

Winnie The Pooh Live Performance

1-9 p.m. — Stoner Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved tale of Winnie The Pooh brought to life on stage by the Des Moines Young Artists Theatre.

Mosher/Macbrehon Concert with Bridget Bell and Sarah Tonin

2-4 p.m. — xBk Live — Tickets available — Experience the melodic sounds of Mosher alongside Bridget Bell and Sarah Tonin at this electrifying show.

K-pop Meet-up

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow K-pop fans while enjoying snacks and trading photocards.