Daily
Des Moines
Thursday, March 19th, 2026
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ An Iowa community has rallied to support Army Reserve Master Sgt. Josh Steinback, injured in a March 1 drone attack, as American Legion Post #73 in Tama collects donations and hosts a fish fry benefit on Friday, Apr. 10 to help cover his family's expenses. KDSM 17
- ➤ The Wiedenman Family Foundation will host its annual Champagne and Dreams Celebration in Ankeny on April 2 to grant dreams for children facing physical, mental, or financial challenges, with raffle tickets now on sale via the foundation’s website. KCCI
- ➤ Iowa Wild held its annual Tame the Hunger event on Tuesday at Casey's Center, where nearly 150 volunteers & staff packaged over 50,000 meals for the Des Moines Public Schools SUCCESS program. The nonprofit Meals for the Heartland will distribute the meals to about 200 families. KCCI
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge plans to rebuild its visitor center (damaged by a storm in 2024) with a $7 million renovation that will reduce the space to 20,000 sqft and resume educational programs. Public input is welcomed until April 2. Iowa Public Radio
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Iowa’s public comment period on its impaired waterways report closes this week+ residents may submit scientific data on the Des Moines and Racoon Rivers, which face scrutiny for high nitrate levels from farm runoff even though state officials say the water meets federal standards. Iowa Starting Line
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Home insurance premiums in Iowa jumped 28% in 2025 to an average of $2,802 as severe weather led insurers to shift more risk to homeowners. Insurify projects a 4% increase by the end of 2026 (placing Iowa among the states with higher rate hikes). KCCI
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Iowa legislators are considering banning kratom, a plant-based stimulant sold at convenience stores, after the House approved a bill reclassifying it as a Schedule I substance on March 17. The Senate will soon review the measure. The Des Moines Register
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ USDA recommends Iowa poultry producers follow strict biosecurity — such as cleaning equipment and limiting visitors — as warmer weather speeds up wild bird migration. The agency will cover up to 75% of costs to address high-risk gaps and help prevent further bird flu outbreaks. Radio Iowa
- ➤ A baby girl born on March 6 was surrendered under Iowa’s Safe Haven Law and is now with the Department of Health and Human Services; the law lets parents in crisis give up infants up to 90 days old at designated sites (hospitals, police stations, fire stations). 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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Purple Piano with Marshall Charloff
7:30-9 p.m. — The Ingersoll Tap — Tickets starting at $136 — Experience a captivating performance by Marshall Charloff in a lively atmosphere.
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Twilight Zone Unscripted
2-5 p.m. — Temple Theater — Ticketed event — Experience an interactive performance inspired by the iconic series in a vibrant live setting.
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The Seagull
2-4 p.m. — Stoner Theater — $56.00 — Experience Chekhov’s classic as it explores the intersection of art, love, and ambition in a fresh adaptation.
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Lake Drive Concert Featuring Flwers, Callback, and Rutabaga
6-10 p.m. — xBk Live — Check website for tickets — Enjoy an exciting lineup of live music with an eclectic mix of genres.
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Puzzlepalooza Duel Jigsaw Puzzle Competition
Puzzlepalooza Duel — 6:30-9:30 p.m. — Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe — $15 registration — Compete head-to-head in a thrilling jigsaw puzzle showdown with prizes at stake.
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Des Moines Career Fair
9:30 AM-12:30 PM — Hilton Des Moines Downtown — Free entry — Connect with recruiters from local and Fortune 500 companies for open career opportunities.
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Kickoff Event for One Million Trees Campaign
4:30-6:00 p.m. — West End Architectural Salvage — RSVP required — Celebrate urban reforestation efforts and engage with local leaders on tree initiatives.
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Planetary Prom
6-9 p.m. — Science Center of Iowa — 21+ event — Dance among the stars at the Science Center's cosmic-themed prom featuring music, cocktails, and space exhibits.
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Courtside for a Cause
4:45 PM – 8:00 PM — Casey's Center — Donation encouraged — Support Hope Ministries while enjoying an Iowa Wolves game and inspiring testimonies.
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The Floozies Live Performance
7-8:30 p.m. — Wooly's — Ticket prices vary — Experience The Floozies live in an energetic night of music at Wooly's in Des Moines.
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