Friday, March 14th, 2025
Good morning, West Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 14th of March.
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Howe Elementary School turned its library into a hair salon so more than a dozen girls could get free braided hairstyles that boost their confidence. Mae Jackson from Mae Slays Braids volunteered her time and products—helping families avoid paying over $70 for each protective style. KCCI
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Iowans can view a total lunar eclipse early Friday when the moon starts to darken at 12:09 a.m. and turns red by 1:26 a.m., staying in full eclipse for about an hour until 2:31 a.m.—clear skies are forecast though thin high clouds may partly cover the view. KCCI
- ➤ A new report finds that Iowa monarch butterflies have increased their overwintering area from 2.2 acres to 4.4 acres but remain below the 15-acre goal needed for a healthy population. Researchers urge locals to plant native milkweed—such as common or butterfly milkweed—to help boost the habitat. Radio Iowa
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Iowa House passed a bill that will require at least 80% of University of Iowa’s medical and dental students be Iowa residents — the change also will give local graduates priority for residency and fellowship spots. Some lawmakers say the shift will help keep doctors in Iowa while others worry it could cost the school over $5.6 million and limit its talent pool. Radio Iowa
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Before fans fill Wells Fargo Arena for the Iowa boys’ state basketball tournament, IHSAA volunteers prepare the empty space as the sound of a bouncing basketball echoes. Public address announcers Craig Collison and Rick Stageman perform an anthem honoring their association — a cherished ritual that marks the start of game day. KCCI
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Des Moines St. Paddy's Half Marathon & 5K Run/Walk
The Des Moines St. Paddy's Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk celebrates its ninth year, featuring finishers' medals and a commemorative stein for participants.
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St. Patrick's Day Pregame with Live Music at Exile Brewing
Experience live music from Waxies Dargle while enjoying Irish food and drink specials at Exile Brewing Company's Beer Hall.
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Effective Negotiating Workshop in Des Moines
This annual workshop focuses on developing essential negotiation skills through interactive discussions and mock sessions to foster mutually beneficial business agreements.
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IXL Live Workshop in Des Moines, IA
This hands-on workshop offers educators a deep dive into utilizing IXL's assessment suite, curriculum, and analytics with personalized instruction.
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Duhawk Day Celebration 2025 at SingleSpeed Brewing
Duhawk Day 2025 in Des Moines invites alumni and supporters to celebrate community and raise funds for Duhawk initiatives at SingleSpeed Brewing.
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Storytime for The Remember Balloons at Des Moines Public Library
This event features a special storytime at DMPL locations in celebration of the upcoming dance production 'The Remember Balloons' in partnership with Des Moines Performing Arts.
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Zumba and Wellness Session by Women Lawyers Division
This event invites participants to engage in an exciting Zumba class aimed at promoting health and wellness, organized by the Women Lawyers Division of the National Bar Association.
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The Blake Shaw Big(ish) Band Concert
7 p.m. | Noce | Ticket prices vary | Enjoy an evening of diverse musical styles spanning jazz, rock, and beyond with Blake Shaw and his band.
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Autism Advocacy Day with Iowa Wild
The Autism Advocacy Day event at Wells Fargo Arena offers attendees a chance to support the Autism Society while enjoying a game, with a portion of ticket sales going towards the cause.
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Texas Legends vs. Iowa Wolves
6:30 PM | Iowa Events Center | Ticket prices vary | Catch the NBA G League action as the Texas Legends take on the Iowa Wolves.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Most smart people overrate the value of intelligence and underrate the value of consistency.
~ Sam Altman
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