Good morning, West Des Moines.

Today, nearly 1,000 people gathered at Val Air Ballroom to celebrate Heated Rivalry — a hit gay hockey romance — by singing popular queer anthems and watching clips from the series.

Polk County is expanding its Wetland Waves program to improve water quality by using natural wetlands like Crestview in Ankeny; it began in 2022 with 16 wetlands complete and 29 more planned using federal recovery funds and state support.

The Iowa House Public Safety Committee passed a bill to ban kratom sales by an 18 to 5 vote, citing rising public health concerns; the measure now heads to a Senate committee for further debate on restrictions for both natural and synthetic forms.

Griff III, dressed as Griff-Hog, forecast 72 degrees and sunny skies for the 116th Drake Relays during the Griff-Hog Day Celebration at Drake University as part of Drake Stadium’s centennial.

Racegoers will enjoy the warm outlook as the Drake Road Races begin on April 18.

Clarke High bowling teams in Osceola got support after a fire destroyed their equipment at Broken Spoke and Alley Bowl last week.

Hy-Vee donated $2,000 plus Stonecutters Pro Shop drilled 34 new balls, and on Monday the girls team qualified for the state tournament while three bowlers earned individual spots.

Wiggles and Giggles Storytime

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy an interactive storytime full of movement, music, and rhymes.

Candlelight Concert: The Beatles

6 PM — World Food Prize Hall of Laureates — $37.63 — Immerse in a candlelit tribute to The Beatles performed by a talented string quartet.

Olivaya Soma Yoga: Zen Saturdays

9:00-10:30 a.m. — Mainframe Studios — Admission required — Nourish your body and mind through intentional movement and soothing sound bowl meditation.

ACLS Certification for Obstetric Providers

Feb 9-10 — UnityPoint Health Des Moines — $200 — Obtain certification in ACLS with specialized training for obstetric patients.

2026 Iowa Turfgrass Conference

12 PM – 1 PM — Holiday Inn Des Moines-Airport/Conf Center — $8.75+ ticket service fee — Explore the latest turfgrass industry innovations and networking opportunities.

VolunTeen Work Opportunity

4-5 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free opportunity — Engage in a rewarding volunteer experience while helping your local library.

Cricut Maker Training

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Discover the craft of cutting and designing with Cricut machines for your DIY projects.

Galentine's Day Celebration

4-11 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $20 for crafts — Celebrate female friendship with crafts, food, and fun at this beloved brewery.

Sweethearts Party

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Scottish Rite Consistory — Reservation required — Celebrate Valentine's Day with appetizers and a candlelight concert for a romantic evening.

Candlelight Valentine's Day Special

12:30 – 4:15 a.m. — Scottish Rite Consistory — Ticket required — Experience romantic melodies performed by the Listeso String Quartet in an enchanting candlelit setting.