Good morning, Des Moines.

Central Iowa farmers in Baxter organized a hay convoy to aid Nebraska ranchers after wildfires burned pastureland; neighbors from Jasper and Marshall counties collected 203 bales + local businesses provided breakfast for volunteers before the drive west.

Former Hy-Vee president Donna Tweeten, the first female leader who spent 40 years at the company and continued as a consultant after retiring, died Wednesday after battling stage 4 pancreatic cancer + her funeral arrangements will be announced soon.

Casey's General Stores, an Ankeny-based convenience store chain, joined the S&P 500 stock index yesterday, making it only the second Iowa company on the list.

The chain has 2,900 stores and 50,000 employees (a key gauge of the U.S. economy) and will add 80 more locations this year.

Greater Des Moines Partnership announced its 2026 Spark DSM Business Incubator cohort on April 9, supporting 28 small businesses with education and event experience.

Twenty-two will serve as onsite vendors at signature events such as the Downtown Farmers' Market and World Food & Music Festival in the region.

Mykayla Hagaman with the Iowa Monarch Conservation Consortium urged residents to help monarch butterflies by planting native milkweed and nectar plants this spring.

Local gardeners can use online resources from the consortium and the Tall Grass Prairie Center to find seed and plant vendors nearby.

The Iowa DNR is seeking volunteers to help count bumble bees for a national survey running from June through October in several counties, with free online training sessions starting April 13 (sponsored by the Xerces Society and Iowa State University) to ensure safe handling.

The Iowa Natural Resource Commission approved a modest increase in hunting and fishing license fees, with annual licenses rising $1 effective June 17 — funding Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund projects.

Officials said the increase is capped at 5% and follows March public input.

A judge ruled Wednesday that Iowa Youth Athletic Foundation can keep the Kettlestone Sports Complex in Waukee after a tax dispute with Dallas County.

The decision lets the group continue hosting youth basketball practices & tournaments that support local businesses.

Six months after losing their 7-month-old son, a Clive couple launched the Archie Lee Foundation to educate parents and daycares on safe sleep practices and support families at Blank Children’s Hospital.

The nonprofit provides sleep sacks, breathing monitors and care packages while urging clear guidance on infant sleep safety.

With warmer weather, many Iowans are starting spring cleaning projects to boost mood and productivity.

Worksite wellness consultant Jessica Boland recommends tackling one room at a time — cleaning out drawers, closets, and sorting items for donation to help keep spaces organized.

The Des Moines Fire Department was named a Gold Helmet Department by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health on March 2 for its cancer prevention efforts for firefighters.

The department will install source-capture exhaust systems in more stations in the next few months to reduce risks.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

LimeLife Beauty Evolution Tour

2-4 p.m. — AC Hotel Des Moines East Village — Free entry — Discover natural skincare and professional makeup in a vibrant atmosphere.

Des Moines Makers Market & Bar Hop

1-6 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Celebrate spring with handmade goods and local brews at this family-friendly market.

Glowforge Laser Engraving Training

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration required — Learn to expertly use the Glowforge Plus Laser Engraver in this comprehensive training session.

Coffee with Baton Global

8:30-10:30 a.m. — La Mie Elevate — Free entry — Sip on great brews while engaging in meaningful conversations and networking opportunities.

Build My Future

12:00 am - 11:59 pm — Iowa State Fairgrounds — Free entry — A day dedicated to showcasing future career opportunities and pathways for attendees.

Home Improvement Loans Workshop

6-7 p.m. — Franklin Avenue Library — Free entry — Learn about home improvement loans and how to confidently renovate your home with NFC's financial assistance.

Fred Hersch Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — Sheslow Auditorium — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the artistry of jazz legend Fred Hersch in a memorable live performance.

Backgammon for Young Minds

8:30-10:30 a.m. — Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe — Free entry — A fun game day for kids to learn and enhance their Backgammon strategy skills.

Billy Nation: A Tribute to Billy Joel

3-7 p.m. — Temple Theater — Cost info not provided — Experience the musical celebration of one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Waldorf Alumni Meet-Up

5-7 p.m. — Confluence Brewing Company — First drink complimentary — Reconnect with Waldorf friends and enjoy great conversation in a welcoming atmosphere.