Good morning, Des Moines.

Hundreds of people attended the Des Moines Book Festival yesterday at the Franklin Events Center at 4801 Franklin Avenue, organized by Beaverdale Books and the Beaverdale Neighborhood Association.

The event featured headline presentations by four authors — over two dozen panel discussions, children’s activities and six food trucks were available with free admission and parking.

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City was voted the 10th best wildlife refuge in America for the second year in a row in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards — the 6000-acre refuge is open daily despite its visitor center remaining closed after storm damage and offers views of bison, elk and various nesting birds. Established in 1990, the refuge is located about 30 minutes east of Des Moines for those seeking a taste of Iowa’s restored tallgrass prairie.

The Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City (established in 1990) has been home to bison since 1996 and now shares photos that show its native wildlife and restored habitats over the years.

Iowa inspectors visited the Colfax Inn on March 7 and found more than a dozen violations including unsanitary rooms with pest infestations, broken locks, and damaged safety equipment.

Hotel management said they are working to fix the problems—police confirmed there is no investigation and a follow-up visit is set for on or after April 3.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Texas Legends vs Iowa Wolves

6:30 PM | Iowa Events Center | Ticket prices vary | Witness the excitement of the NBA G League clash between Texas Legends and Iowa Wolves.

Bowl For Kids' Sake

Bowl for a Cause with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa! Bring your team together for a fun-filled event that supports life-changing mentoring programs while giving your company the spotlight it deserves!

Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End - A Biographical Play

A heartwarming and humorous play that celebrates the life of renowned humorist Erma Bombeck, highlighting her unique voice as a chronicler of everyday women's experiences.

Trivia Night at Exile Brewing

6-8 p.m. | Exile Brewing Company | Free entry | Come have fun and test your knowledge with a night of trivia.

The Remember Balloons Concert

2-4 p.m. | Des Moines Performing Arts | Ticket details not provided | Experience the vibrant performance of The Remember Balloons in the heart of Des Moines.

Building Show of Iowa

9 AM - 6 PM | Iowa Events Center | Free entry | Connect with local building experts for your remodeling and construction needs.

Senior Living Awards Showcase

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. | 3717 6th Ave, Des Moines | Free entry | Celebrate the best in senior living with awards for meals, activities, and community friendliness.

Crafting for Adults: String Art

3:30-5:00 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration recommended — Create a unique string art piece or progress on your current project.

Blake Shaw with The Des Moines Big Band

7 p.m. — Noce — Ticket information not provided — Experience an extraordinary night of jazz with vocalist Blake Shaw leading the storied Des Moines Big Band.

Author Event with Amina Luqman-Dawson

6:30-8 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate the award-winning author of 'Freewater' and enjoy a book signing and Q&A session.