Good morning, Des Moines.

Polk County’s 2025 point-in-time count on January 29 found 779 people experiencing homelessness—a 9% increase from last year—with 206 unsheltered, a new record compared to 147 in the previous count.

Emergency shelters housed 428 people with nearly 94% of beds occupied, and local agencies point to stagnant wages and rising living costs as key factors in the trend.

On June 16th, the Greater Des Moines Partnership announced the promotions of Courtney Shaw (Chief Communications and Engagement Officer) and Alicia Chilton (Vice President of Marketing).

Their expanded roles will boost the organization’s communications, marketing and investor relations efforts to further drive economic growth in the region.

First responders recovered the body of an 18-year-old male at Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines on June 16 — he was reported missing on Sunday at 5:30 p.m.

Sentencing for Melisa Cox—former President and CEO of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce who pleaded guilty to four felony charges including Theft in the 1st Degree after stealing over $250,000—has been delayed to July 2 due to the prosecuting attorney being out of the country and pending victim impact statements.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Journey to Homeownership Class

6-8 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free — Explore resources and support for African Americans on the path to homeownership.

Kindermusik Class

5:30 – 6:15 PM — Hoyt Sherman Place — Cost not specified — Explore children’s music to enhance learning and growth.

Jake Schrodt Duo Live at Annie’s Irish Pub

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of live music from the Jake Schrodt Duo in a cozy pub setting.

Ride for a Reason

12-5 p.m. — SingleSpeed Brewing Co - DSM TapRoom — $25 Early Bird ($35 after) — Participate in a fun 17-mile ride while benefiting Dorothy's House and enjoying live music and prizes.

Summer Music Series: Jonas Magram at Exile Brewing

5:00–7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer at the Summer Music Series.

Overcoming Writer's Block Workshop

7-9 p.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — $30 — Explore how to navigate writer's block and unlock your creativity in this intensive workshop.

MY PAINTING ERA CAMP! Day 1: 1989

9 a.m.–12 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Cost varies — Create a unique painting with friends and local artists' guidance.

Avey Grouws Band Performance

6-10 p.m. — Gray's Station — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of live music, local food trucks, and summer vibes in Downtown Des Moines.

Disney Trivia Night at Exile Brewing

6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints during happy hour — Test your Disney knowledge every Thursday evening with Trophy Husband Trivia.

Scott Davis Trio Performance

7 PM — The Cave DSM — Cost info not available — Enjoy an evening of captivating music from the talented Scott Davis Trio.