Good morning, Des Moines.

At its Live United luncheon on Tuesday in Altoona, United Way of Central Iowa released a report that highlights challenges in essential needs, economic opportunity, early childhood and education success plus health and wellbeing in the region.

United Way President Mary Sellers said 35% of central Iowans struggle to afford basic necessities as the cost of living has risen faster than wages.

A crash late Monday night in Carroll County killed a 17-year-old driver and a 56-year-old passenger when Troy Bluml drove a John Deere tractor that did not stop at a sign plus left the scene, and another passenger was hurt and taken by helicopter to a Des Moines hospital, with Bluml later arrested for leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.

Arts and culture groups in Iowa lost funding when the National Endowment for the Humanities canceled several grants last week.

Humanities Iowa planned to share over one million dollars with libraries and historical societies — its executive director said the group had to secure new corporate and private funding, and college programs were also affected.

Iowa farmers joined a town hall meeting in Jones County on Monday with U.S. Senator Grassley to ask for more certainty in trade policy as they worried tariffs could lower crop values.

Grassley—who co-sponsored a bill that gives Congress approval over trade tariffs—held another town hall meeting in Fort Madison on Tuesday as part of his 99-county tour.

Urbandale's 10-year-old golfer Brooklynn Conard competed at Augusta National last Sunday at the 2025 Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals (she finished 4th in the 10-11 girls group) and now plans to return next year to aim for first place.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Trivia Night at Exile Brewing

6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints during happy hour — Test your knowledge with Trophy Husband Trivia while enjoying great brews.

First Friday Art Open House

5-8 p.m. — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Explore 181 artist studios, enjoy themed festivities, and support local creatives during this monthly open house.

Pajama Party Yoga

10-11 a.m. — Surety Hotel — Donation-based class — Unwind with yoga, live DJ music, and complimentary mini massages in a cozy atmosphere.

Taps & Tags Music Night

7:30-10 p.m. — Westown Tap Bar and Restaurant — Free entry — A lively social evening for singers and music lovers to showcase their talent and enjoy live performances.

Korean Mythology Escape Room

6:30-7:15 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration required — Outwit ancient myths and recover missing artifacts in an engaging escape room experience.

Low School Group Traffic

All day — Science Center of Iowa — Standard admission — Enjoy a quieter visit at the Science Center with minimal school group traffic expected.

CPCU Society and RISE Professionals Joint Event

3:30-5:30 p.m. — Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company — Contact for tickets — Network with insurance professionals and enjoy drinks and appetizers while learning about career resources.

Freedom in Freeform

4-5:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — A welcoming stage for local poets to share their original works and celebrate the passion of poetry.

Bluegrass Matinee at Exile Brewing

11 AM - 1 PM — Exile Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy live bluegrass music from Stringfield in a vibrant beer hall atmosphere.

Soul Sunday with Gospel Artists

3 PM — Noce — Food and drinks available for purchase — Experience uplifting gospel music alongside a soul food inspired brunch.