Good morning, Des Moines.

On May 26, Iowan Ryan O'Leary, commander of international unit (Chosen Company), said his unit left Ukrainian military service due to legal problems and unfair rules for foreign fighters, and he vowed he will continue killing Russians.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is asking local volunteers to help with the second year of the Iowa Bumble Bee Atlas by doing two 45-minute surveys in a chosen grid cell between June 1 and September 30.

Volunteers must watch training videos, print data sheets, and attend a field training scheduled statewide in late June through July.

Organizers in Clive sent a petition asking for a special election to fill the council seat after Srikant Mikkilineni left for a job in another state and Breanne Hocker was appointed in May.

The petition is in an objection period lasting 5 days and if it holds, the winner will serve until 2027—otherwise Hocker will remain until a November vote.

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst announced on June 4 that Iowa native Bryan Kraber will lead her reelection campaign for a third Senate term in 2026.

Kraber brings over a decade of Iowa politics experience—having worked on her 2020 campaign—and will build the campaign operation to help fight for Iowans.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

First Friday Open House at Mainframe Art Studios

5-8 p.m. — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Explore artist studios, enjoy food and drinks, and support local creatives at this themed open house.

Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration

10 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate the start of summer with fun activities, face painting, and summer reading registration for youth of all ages.

Summer Music Series: Eliana Franzenburg

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

Summer Skate Day Camp

9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — Lauridsen Skatepark — $185.00 — Experience a week of skateboarding skills and fun at the popular Summer Skate Day Camp.

Crafting for Adults: Personalized Stationery

8:30-10:00 p.m. — 1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA — Registration recommended — Personalize your own stationery set or make progress on a crafty project.

Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course

1-7 p.m. — Blank Children's Hospital Campus — Registration Closed — Enhance your skills in pediatric emergency care with hands-on training and expert instruction.

ISSA Des Moines Networking Meetup

7-9 a.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Enjoy coffee and conversation while connecting with local infosec professionals.

Sips in the City

6-9 p.m. — Ruan Center — VIP tickets available — Experience a vibrant night of wines, music, and local bites in downtown Des Moines.

Bacoon Ride 2025

7 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Raccoon River Valley Trailhead — Registration Fee Required — Indulge in bacon-themed treats while cycling through scenic Iowa trails.

Summer Music Series: Andrew Hoyt

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints all day — Enjoy live music and cold beer on the patio for a relaxing Sunday evening.