Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of May.
Good morning, Des Moines.
At the Iowa State Fair at Elwell Family Fun Park, visitors can enjoy antique tractor pulls on Aug.
7, UTV & ATV races on Aug. 9, Charreria on Aug. 10, Outlaw Truck & Tractor Pull contests on Aug. 12 and 13, an Electric Utilities Lineman Rodeo on Aug. 15, a demolition derby on Aug. 16, and Figure 8 races on Aug. 17. Some events are free while others require tickets—priced from $15 to $30—with a few contests needing prior registration online.
Central Iowa will hold Memorial Day events honoring fallen soldiers with a parade at Living History Farms in Urbandale on Saturday, May 24 and several ceremonies on Monday, May 26 at sites including Burke Memorial Park in Des Moines, the Iowa Gold Star Museum in Johnston, and other local locations—each event offering distinct traditions from early morning services to family activities.
John Deere reported a drop in its second quarter income as net income fell to $1.8 billion from nearly $2.4 billion at the same time last year — for the first six months, net income was almost $2.7 billion compared to $4.1 billion previously, with worldwide net sales down 16 percent in the quarter and 22 percent for six months.
Equipment shipping delays have pushed the opening of Birdland Pool to as late as July because city officials still have not received the required filters ordered in October.
The city is investing $1.75 million in upgrades — daily admission will drop to $1 and season pass holders will get full refunds while pool staff are reassigned.
Van Meter boys soccer achieved its 11th straight win by defeating No. 9 Perry 3—1, earning a substate first-round bye set for May 27.
Track athletes built extra meet experience as boys and girls teams prepare for state qualifiers on Thursday after recent competitive events including a Panorama invitational win by the girls.
DCG girls soccer shut out ranked teams with a 7—0 win over Bondurant-Farrar on May 8 and a 3—0 win over ADM on Monday.
The track teams set new records and won conference crowns, boosting several events into the top 30 as the Mustangs head to state qualifiers.
New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness
This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!
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.
Birth Basics Class
11 PM – 1 AM — Visitor Parking Ramp — Registration required — Gain essential information on labor stages and delivery options in this informative class.
Legal Essentials for Entrepreneurs Workshop
11:30 a.m. — 204 12th St — Free entry — Learn to protect your business ideas and brand while avoiding legal pitfalls in a fun setting.
Trivia Night: 90s at Exile Brewing
6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Enjoy happy hour treats — Test your knowledge with Trophy Husband Trivia every Thursday.
Freedom in Freeform Poetry Event
4-5:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — An open mic space for local poets to showcase their original works and share their love for poetry.
2025 Downtown Farmers' Market
7 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Court District — Free entry — Explore a vibrant market featuring local produce, artisan foods, and more in downtown Des Moines.
Summer Music Series: Corbett Reeves
5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes during the Summer Music Series.
I Spy: Bikes
All day — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate National Bike Month with a fun picture scavenger hunt in the Youth area to win a prize.
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