Good morning, Des Moines.

Blank Park Zoo broke ground on the new Marjorie A.

Foster Lion Conservation Center at the Jamaa Kwa Africa Section on May 20 to expand its space for African lions from two to eight. The center, opening in summer, features two connected outdoor habitats (designed with an airplane hangar theme) and immersive viewing experiences (part of the zoo’s largest expansion in 40 years).

Firefighters responded to a house fire on the 6700 block of Three Lakes Parkway in the Easter Lake neighborhood at around 3 a.m. on May 21 which killed three people and injured one—officials continue to investigate the cause.

Many Iowans are planning to travel this Memorial Day weekend, with reports that 3.7 million people from the West North Central region will journey 50 miles or more while opting for shorter, local trips.

Lower gas prices have fueled this forecast—Des Moines gas averages at $2.84 while Ames sees higher prices.

A recent report from the National Education Association showed Iowa teachers earned an average starting salary of $40,997 in 2023-24, ranking the state among the lowest in the nation.

Lawmakers and Gov. Reynolds passed House File 2612 to raise starting pay to $47,500 for 2024-25 and $50,000 for 2025-26—also boosting salaries for experienced teachers.

Iowa organizations will host Memorial Day events on Monday, May 26 to honor fallen soldiers, with ceremonies starting as early as 6 a.m. in Johnston and services in Adel, Albion, Des Moines, Davenport and other towns—families are invited to join parades and remembrance gatherings statewide.

Local organizations for people with disabilities are preparing for possible budget cuts in 2026 — Disability Rights Iowa is asking the community for feedback on its key services after a federal budget leak indicated a potential $40 million cut, which would reduce funding for local programs.

Gov. Kim Reynolds announced a new grant program that will give preschools and child care centers up to $300,000 over three years to offer all-day care for 4-year-olds after lawmakers did not pass her bill.

She also introduced a plan to match donations from businesses to boost child care workers' wages — and extended a pilot program that lets more child care workers access child care assistance.

High humidity in Des Moines, driven by warm seas and corn crops releasing extra moisture, is making it hard for some people with asthma and other breathing problems to stay comfortable.

Climate scientist Chris Gloninger and Dr. Ryan Freedle warned that rising dew points mean the air holds more water—worsening allergies, mold growth, and heat stroke risks for vulnerable residents.

Woodward-Granger sent a record six girls and five boys to the state track meet in Des Moines—Hayden Thomas and Kane Mahler-Moreno led strong efforts while Mallory Polito advanced in girls golf and the baseball and softball teams look forward to upcoming games.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

Damon Dotson at Gray's Station Summer Music Series

6-8 p.m. — The Paseo at Gray's Station — Free entry — Enjoy live music, delicious food trucks, and summer vibes in downtown Des Moines.

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 at this local favorite brewery.

Adam Kulmatycki Duo Live at Annie’s Irish Pub

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of live music in a vibrant Irish pub atmosphere.

Yubu Band Live Performance

12:00 pm - 3:00 pm — Annie's Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy an afternoon of live music from the Yubu Band at this local favorite pub.

Summer Music Series: Forrest McCurren

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

Writers' Workshop 2025

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — No registration required — Share your work and receive valuable feedback from fellow writers.