Good morning, Des Moines.

Early on Thursday, flames broke out on East Glenwood Drive near Southeast 14th Street and damaged a mobile home trailer—firefighters are investigating the cause while one firefighter was injured and the trailer will be demolished.

Claire’s filed for bankruptcy and announced plans to close three Iowa stores—North Grand Mall in Ames, Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines, and the Icing store in West Des Moines.

Seven stores in Altoona, Burlington, Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Coralville, Davenport and Dubuque will remain open, though more may close if the company does not find a buyer.

Cortney Kintzer began his career in October 1974 in Des Moines when he saw Air Force One land and later joined WHO and KCCI to capture Iowa's stories; he has spent 50 years developing his craft and supporting new photographers—his work leaving a lasting impact on the community.

Calyn Thompson defended Iowa’s state fair as the best while Jason Hackett reported from Minnesota’s fairgrounds in a debate over which fair shows more appeal—each side pointing to unique attractions.

Clive city officials announced major investments in parks, roads, and public facilities to keep up with a growing population, including projects at Greenbelt Landing, Alice’s Road, and Linnan Park.

They also approved a $1.2M renovation of City Hall and launched an online special census for residents to update their count by Tuesday, Sept. 23 — a key step to secure federal funds.

Polk County officials said longtime civil bureau chief Ralph Marasco Jr. resigned weeks before a defamation trial involving former HR chief Jim Nahas—mediation reportedly broke down amid internal conflicts and lawsuits.

He has taken a new job with the Iowa Utilities Board as county leaders work to address changes in leadership.

Former Iowa House lawmaker Dave Dawson, who worked as a prosecutor for 20 years, announced his campaign for Congress in Iowa's 4th District on August 28th — saying he will put people before politics.

He said his roots in Cherokee and work in Sioux City will help him win over voters in a district that leans conservative — a challenge he plans to meet by working across party lines.

Des Moines will move into a new City Hall named for former Mayor Frank Cownie in 2026.

Renderings show a lobby, a boardroom that holds 150 seats + 18 seats at the dais, and a customer service area on the second floor of a former Nationwide building at 1200 Locust St.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Downtown Farmers' Market

7 AM – 12 PM — Court District — Free entry — Celebrate local produce and artisanal goods at Des Moines' vibrant farmers' market.

Summer Music Series: David Watson at Exile Brewing

5:00-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes during this summer event.

Monthly Writing Night

7-9 p.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Engage in a relaxed evening of creativity with fellow writers and prompts to spark new ideas.

Des Moines Women's Club Opening Day

1-3 p.m. — Des Moines Women's Club — Free entry — Celebrate the kick-off of the club's 140th year with a musical cabaret performance featuring Jackie Schmillen.

Graphic Design Bootcamp

2-8 p.m. — Bank of America Building — Course fees apply — Gain hands-on experience with essential graphic design tools and techniques.

Awakening Events: Christian Music Concert

6-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of uplifting Christian music in downtown Des Moines.

Touchdown Tailgate

11 AM – 4 PM — Cowles Commons — Free admission — Celebrate the Cyhawk takeover with a fun-filled day at Cowles Commons.

Harry Potter Night at Iowa Cubs

1:08-2:38 PM — Principal Park — $13+ — Experience the magic of Harry Potter with themed entertainment and a kids' run around the bases.

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.

VolunTEENS Work Time

3-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free opportunity — Engage in a fun and rewarding volunteer activity at the library.