Good morning, West Des Moines.

Former Iowa State and NFL player JJ Moses received the Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award today at The Ray Center’s All-Star Evening event in Des Moines — the honor recognizes a commitment to strong values and mentorship following his NFL career.

Today, youth wild turkey hunting starts as Iowa DNR official Jim Coffey notes hunters bagged a record 16,000 birds last year and that most targets are two-year-old birds; the regular season begins on April 18—hunters are advised to follow safety guidelines and be aware that early green-up may affect visibility.

FuseDSM will host its Change Your Circle Speed Networking Event (a structured and fast-paced meeting) to help chamber members connect and exchange business cards.

Registration is limited (reserve your spot early) to ensure a smooth experience.

Record Store Day is taking place tomorrow at record stores in central Iowa—fans will line up early for rare vinyl and CD releases with limited copies available.

Several local stores in Des Moines, such as Marv's Music and Zzz Records, will join an event that began in 2008—and has grown into a celebration of music and community.

Today, the National Weather Service said it will no longer translate severe weather alerts in languages other than English after its contract with a translation provider lapsed.

Spanish-language radio station 97.5 FM La Q Buena said its team will work to warn non-English speakers, though many may not get clear storm warnings.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced in a campaign video on Friday morning that she will not run for reelection in 2026—she said she made the decision after thoughtful family discussions and will work hard until her term ends.

She has served in public office since 2017 and devoted nearly 10 years to leading the state.

Governor Kim Reynolds said she will not run for re-election to spend more time with her family after a historic term that saw her appoint a female lieutenant governor and reorganize state agencies.

Leaders say her work changed education funding, tax policies & regulatory rules to prepare Iowa for the future.

Iowans can now check out blood pressure monitors from some central Iowa libraries as part of the Libraries with Heart program in partnership with the American Heart Association.

Library officials said patrons must return the kits on time and can place holds to pick up items at their local branch.

Spring Collaging Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Cost TBD — Unlock your creativity with Madeline Maser in this engaging collaging class using various artistic materials.

Spring Needle Felting Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — All materials provided — Create delightful felted spring flowers in a beginner-friendly setting.

Workshop on Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse

1-4:30 p.m. — UnityPoint Health - Blank Children's Hospital — Free entry — Engage in vital training to help prevent child sexual abuse and learn to address concerning behaviors.

MercyMe Concert

10:30 p.m. — Wells Fargo Arena — Tickets available — Experience a night of faith and music with MercyMe in Des Moines.

Jazz on the House with Guitarist Jack Curtis & Co.

7-10 p.m. — Noce — No cover — Enjoy a lively jazz session with happy hour specials every Thursday night.

Party101 with DJ Matt Bennett

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Wooly's — $35 general admission — Experience a night filled with music and energy as DJ Matt Bennett takes the stage.

Grand Blue Mile 2025

12:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Western Gateway Park — $10 registration — Celebrate healthy habits and family achievement with sprints for all ages during the Grand Blue Mile.

Grand Blue Mile and Set the Pace Challenge

6-8 p.m. — Western Gateway Park — Free entry — Compete to win $10,000 for your community by promoting health and wellness in this fun and engaging event.

Know Your Farmer Dinner at Ray Family Farms

5:30-7 p.m. — The Wallace Centers of Iowa — Cost unknown — Savor a delicious 3-course dinner featuring fresh ingredients from Ray Family Farms while engaging with the owners.

Game of Thrones Trivia Night

6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Enjoy happy hour with $4.50 pints — Test your knowledge of the Seven Kingdoms at Trophy Husband Trivia.