Good morning, Des Moines.

The Young Women’s Resource Center in Des Moines will host Celebrity Servers Night in October to raise funds for programs that help young women—organizers said the event will support ongoing resources.

Hispanic Heritage Month began on Sept.

15 to honor Hispanic American contributions—a tradition that started in the 1960s and continues through Oct. 15 with the theme “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future.” The Latino Heritage Festival will be held at Western Gateway Park—1205 Locust St.—on Sept. 27 and 28 with food vendors, live music and cultural exhibits.

Late summer heat and dry weather have led Iowa farmers to start their corn harvest early as disease has affected crops in north-central fields while soybean plants remain green.

Rain later in the week—if it comes—could reduce dust and lower fire risks for the work ahead.

Farmers in north-central Iowa started harvesting corn early due to dry weather and southern rust reducing stalk quality—soybean fields still show green leaves and will be harvested in a week to 10 days with a chance of rain to ease the work.

The Iowa Bicycle Coalition released the second phase of its study showing that 40% of recreational cyclists ride at least twice per month, which boosts economic impact and creates jobs across all 99 counties—ranging from $500,000 in Adams County to over $150 million in Polk County.

The USDA announced it will invest up to $18-million to connect local schools with farmers by increasing access to locally-sourced foods, building school gardens and providing food safety training.

Applications are due December 5th—Chelsea Christ, co-chair of the Iowa Farm to School and Early Care Coalition, expects strong proposals from across the state.

The Des Moines School Board voted unanimously on Sept.

16 to put a $265M bond on the Nov. 4 ballot for the Reimagining Education plan, which will update schools and expand pre-K and career programs. Voters must approve at least 60% of the ballots for the bond to pass — a move that aims to boost student performance.

Girl Scouts in Iowa learn important skills like goal setting, communication and money management through their cookie sales program that will introduce a new flavor called Exploremore—a rocky road ice cream-inspired sandwich cookie set to debut in February.

The sales will keep proceeds local for community service projects and future scouting trips.

On Sept. 16, about 30 protesters from the National Federation of the Blind of Iowa gathered outside the Iowa Department for the Blind office in Des Moines to oppose changes that now make learning shades optional in blindness training.

They demanded a new director and more research so the department can best serve blind and low-vision Iowans—urging careful review of the long-standing program.

Windsor Heights leaders voted Monday night to start building a new water trail access on Walnut Creek, completing Central Iowa's $125 million project.

Construction will begin this fall—families in Colby Park will soon enjoy direct access for paddleboarding and canoeing.

On Tuesday, Marshall County reported 61 Legionnaires’ disease cases — nearly 10 more than over the weekend — and health officials including Iowa HHS, Marshall County Public Health and the CDC are investigating potential sources while urging those with high fever, cough or chills to seek prompt care.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

Ballet Des Moines: Forward

7-8:30 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Tickets start at $35 — Experience a contemporary ballet exploring evolution in art, emotion, and community.

Panda Bear Concert

7:00–8:30 p.m. — Wooly's — Tickets from $50 — Experience the soothing sounds of Panda Bear live in Des Moines.

Summer Music Series: Brian Herrin at Exile Brewing

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes during the Summer Music Series.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity with hands-on art activities every Monday night.

K-pop Fan Gathering

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Meet fellow K-pop enthusiasts and enjoy trading photocards while snacking and listening to music.

Impact-First Product Teams with Matt LeMay

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free entry — Explore how to foster honest communication in your product organization for better outcomes.