Good morning, Des Moines.

On August 20, a community member sent videos to Iowa MMJ showing federal agents near a Des Moines home, and the group posted the clips on Facebook on August 29 to teach locals about their rights amid growing fears from welfare check-ins — organizer Elizabeth Balcarcel said immigrants, including citizens, have reported concerns and are advised to demand a warrant before answering the door.

Actor Brian O'Halloran, remembered for his role in Clerks, will appear at GalaxyCon Des Moines this weekend at the Iowa Events Center and host a live burlesque event for fans—giving movie lovers a chance to meet him in person.

Opera companies are using low-paid apprentices as fewer fans attend shows and donations shrink—this change has made it harder for experienced singers to earn a steady living while some artists turn to social media for new opportunities.

Industry leaders and educators warn that this trend, set against declining classical music support, may reshape how opera is performed in the future.

Over the summer, Des Moines Public Schools hired staff to nearly fill open roles for custodians, food and nutrition workers, and bus drivers—bringing most of its 72 buildings to near full staffing.

The district hosted job fairs and reached out to the community while still seeking bus drivers and transportation support.

Last week Drake University announced that its Bulldog Promise program—covering 100% tuition for eligible Iowa first-year students—will expand for the 2026-27 school year.

The program will lower the high school GPA requirement from 3.8 to 3.5, and President Marty Martin expects the change will roughly double the number of eligible students.

Des Moines Area Community College is considering selling the Evelyn K.

Davis Center for Working Families at 1171 Seventh St.—The center, which has served over 11,000 people since 2013, would be purchased by faith nonprofit St. Vincent de Paul for $1 million payable over five years as community conversations are set for Sept 24 and Oct 8 before a board decision on Oct 13.

Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered flags on public grounds to be lowered at half-staff today until sunset to honor Patriot Day in memory of the September 11 attacks—businesses and residents are encouraged to follow the same order.

On September 10 the state Transportation Commission updated its rules on drivers licenses so you cannot change the sex on your license—Attorney Sara Siedsma said the update meets a new law that defines sex at birth and applies to all state issued IDs.

On Monday, VA Secretary Doug Collins visited the VA Central Iowa Health Care Center in Des Moines where he met with veterans and staff, toured the facility, and discussed plans to expand mental health services.

He recognized the team’s dedication while addressing challenges at VA facilities nationwide — a move to boost patient care.

Since July 1, authorities issued 4,569 warnings for drivers breaking the hands-free law that bans holding phones while driving and using them to scroll, text, or play videos.

The rule will get tougher starting Jan. 1 as drivers face a $100 fine and higher penalties if crashes occur—officials say this may help reduce traffic fatalities.

Former state representative Ned Chiodo died on Sept.

4 in West Des Moines at 83—he won a write-in campaign in 1976 and hosted presidential candidates at his South Side home, marking his influential role in local politics.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

GalaxyCon Des Moines

Sep 12-14 — Iowa Events Center — Tickets from $178 — Experience an unforgettable celebration of fandom with GalaxyCon in Des Moines.

Big Used Book Sale 2025

10 AM - 5 PM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Benefits library programs — Shop for a variety of used books and more while supporting your local library.

2025 GalaxyCon - Sunday

3:30 AM — Hy-Vee Hall at Iowa Events Center — Tickets starting at $156 — Experience a day filled with exciting performances at GalaxyCon.

I Don't Know How But They Found Me Concert

7-11 p.m. — Wooly's — $85-$925 — Catch a night of eclectic tunes and memorable performances by I Don't Know How But They Found Me.

Uncle Lucius Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Wooly's — $36-$79 — Catch Uncle Lucius live in a vibrant setting with great local energy.

28 Days Later Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — xBk Live — Ticket info available — Get ready to rock with electrifying performances from 28 Days Later in an unforgettable evening of music and energy.

Comedy Penthouse

7-8:30 p.m. — Bash Events & Catering — $10 adv/$15 DOS — Experience top-notch comedy with headliner Jen Kuhle in a unique, intimate venue.

Kid-Friendly Brewery Tour at Exile Brewing

11:00-11:45 a.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free entry — Explore the science behind brewing with fun machinery and hands-on activities for kids.

2025 Peace Day International Festival

10 AM – 3 PM — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Celebrate global peace with food, dance, and cultural activities at this vibrant festival.

Breastfeeding Basics Workshop

11 PM - 1 AM — Visitor Parking Ramp, Des Moines, IA — Registration required — Learn essential skills for breastfeeding success in a supportive environment.