Good morning, Des Moines.

Two brothers who run an urban garden in Des Moines pushed back on a city fence rule last year—building a new fence and a small redwood structure from reclaimed materials—and they now maintain a garden with beds full of late-spring green.

They will offer monthly workshops and hold a block party with live music on June 21 to celebrate the longest day of the year.

Metro Waste Authority says residents and local businesses must not put rechargeable batteries in curbside recycling or garbage bins because they can spark fires in waste trucks and facilities — instead, they should use designated drop-off locations or on-demand Houseside Collection service available in Des Moines and central Iowa. The authority offers an online guide listing safe battery disposal options — including household batteries like AA, AAA, C, D and 9V and rechargeable devices such as laptops and cell phones.

State Rep. Jennifer Konfrst from Windsor Heights announced her campaign for Iowa's 3rd Congressional District seat on May 8th and said she will step down as House Minority Leader after the current session to focus on the race—she cited strong family ties to the district and concerns that local needs are being overlooked in Washington.

State lawmakers are planning to build an Agricultural Education Center at the State Fairgrounds as part of the My Iowa Ag Learning Campus.

The center—expected to cost $15 million in total with $5 million proposed over the next two years—will be located near the Animal Learning Center to offer farm learning with live animals, crop displays and job information.

Today, experts from the Iowa Cancer Consortium & the University of Iowa say more research & policy action will be needed to study how water quality may be linked to high cancer rates in Iowa.

They noted that while 97 percent of public water meets EPA standards, runoff and other contaminants raise concerns for private well users who are advised to test their water annually.

Shannon Knudsen, a sexual assault nurse examiner, is launching the Safe Center of Iowa—an office planned in Des Moines with satellite sites to help survivors who currently drive three to four hours for care.

The center will work with law enforcement to speed up evidence collection and support victims from their first steps in recovery.

On Monday, the Mustangs won 5—0 against Pella on senior night to clinch the Little Hawkeye Conference title and top the Class 3A rankings, while standout track performances position athletes for upcoming state qualifiers as summer practices begin.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Joyann Parker Band Performance

7 p.m. — Noce — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful and genre-blending sounds of Joyann Parker, a rising star in roots music.

Summer Music Series: Taylor King

5:00-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — All-day happy hour with $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes every Sunday.

I Spy: Iowa Wildflowers

Discover Iowa wildflowers — May 12-24 — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Learn to identify local wildflowers and hunt for them in the children's area for a prize.

Sensory-Friendly Hours

4-7 p.m. — Science Center of Iowa — Check website for details — Explore the wonders of science in a quieter, sensory-friendly environment tailored for all visitors.

35th Annual Iowa Breastfeeding Conference

8 AM - 5 PM — FFA Enrichment Center — Registration fees apply — Attend insightful sessions on evidence-based breastfeeding support for healthcare professionals.

Wiggles and Giggles Storytime

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy a lively storytime with movement, music, and fun rhymes for young children.

2025 Girls Nike EYCL Tournament Of Champions

May 16-18 — EMC Expo Center — Admission required — Experience top-tier youth basketball competition featuring various teams.

Downtown Farmers' Market 2025

7 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Court District — Free entry — Explore local produce, artisan foods, and seasonal delights at this vibrant market in downtown Des Moines.

Soul Revival at Surety Hotel

4-7 p.m. — Surety Hotel — Free entry — Experience a soulful evening of gospel and R&B music under the stars with live performances and community vibes.

Quartz Classic Golf Event

10 AM – 4 PM — Glen Oaks Country Club Iowa — Cost varies — A day of golf supporting Variety - the Children's Charity of Iowa in picturesque surroundings.