Good morning, West Des Moines.

John Morgan, a former Marine from Iowa, recalled his Vietnam War service today when he flew nearly 7,000 people out of Saigon 50 years ago.

He said he focused on saving lives without harming anyone and later shared his story in his memoir (Fly the Friendly Skies of Cambodia and Vietnam).

Governor Kim Reynolds signed a law today that will require Iowa public schools to ban cell phone use in classes starting July 1 & allow exceptions for students with special instructional or health needs.

Bipartisan lawmakers supported the measure to help improve classroom focus and enhance learning.

Dr. Andy Nish is teaching the Aspire class to help West Des Moines residents change habits to lower their risk of metabolic dysfunction.

The class offers health screenings and guidance on nutrition, sleep, and stress management—participants like Annie McCormick are already reporting improved energy and better blood test results.

Benson Vorwaller, a 1-year-old Cubs fan, celebrated his first birthday on Wednesday at Principal Park by throwing the first pitch with help from his dad Garrett + the event marked his Minor League Baseball debut ahead of the I-Cubs game.

City Voices Spring Recital

6:30-8 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Experience a vibrant spring recital featuring talented students performing classical, contemporary, and musical theatre works.

Secret Series Skate Contest

2-6 p.m. — Lauridsen Skatepark — $10 entry waived with t-shirt — All ages and skill levels compete with unique obstacles in a vibrant skateboarding community event.

Food for the Hungry Volunteer Event with We The Kingdom

5:30-10:30 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Volunteer participation required — Support the fight against poverty while enjoying live music.

Future Islands Concert

7-9 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices from $32 — Experience Future Islands live in an intimate concert setting in Des Moines.

Beyond Birth: Baby's First Year Support Group

9-11 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Weekly postpartum support for parents and their new babies with guest presentations.

Quarterly Meeting

6-8 p.m. — Scottish Rite Consistory — $22.13 — Attend a quarterly meeting dinner with a menu to be published.

Breakfast with Ricky Stanzi

7-9 a.m. — The Hall DSM — $20 at the door — Enjoy breakfast and fellowship while hearing Ricky Stanzi's inspirational testimony.

Architecture on the Move: Iowa Architectural Foundation Tours

5:30-7 p.m. — Capital Square — Free entry — Discover downtown Des Moines' architectural marvels on a guided sidewalk tour.

Mary's Meals 5K Walk/Run

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge — Fundraising encouraged — Participate in the annual Race to Feed Kids and help provide meals for children in need.

& Juliet (Touring)

& Juliet — 1-5 p.m. — Des Moines Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — A vibrant musical featuring the hits of Britney Spears, The Backstreet Boys, and The Weeknd.