Good morning, West Des Moines.

West Des Moines just received a $250,000 grant from Hy-Vee for the Legacy Woods project that will create an outdoor nature sanctuary on Grand Avenue and Fuller Road near the historic Jordan House Museum — the site of the former Nazarene Church campsite.

The city removed vacant buildings and planted nearly 80 tree species since buying the property in 2023, and the finished project will include nature trails and an orchard.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources began studying the rapid drop in gray fox numbers by tracking a few animals and using AI to sort through 300 to 500,000 trail camera photos, a process wildlife biologist Vince Evelsizer explained on May 5 — private trappers and landowners aided the study by reporting sightings that may reveal clues behind the decline.

The Iowa Department of Transportation announced extra ramp closures on 35/80 beginning today with the northbound entrance at Hickman Road and the northbound exit at Douglas Avenue closed—these closures will last until August.

A detour is in place so commuters in the western metro area should plan for slightly longer travel times.

Over the weekend, walks to raise awareness for Huntington’s disease were held in five Iowa cities including Le Mars, Des Moines, Dubuque, Iowa City and Indianola.

Angie Conley, a Polk City resident who helped organize the walk in Le Mars after her husband was diagnosed, said money raised will support research for treatment — the effort aims to help find a cure for the genetic disorder.

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.

I Spy: Iowa Wildflowers

— May 12 – 24 — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Discover the beauty of Iowa wildflowers and embark on an outdoor adventure to spot them.

Beyond Birth: Baby's First Year Support Group

9:30-11 a.m. — Downtown Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Connect with other new parents in a supportive environment for postpartum discussions.

Summer Nights at Karl Kustoms

5-7 p.m. — Karl Kustoms — Free entry — Enjoy a casual evening with food, fun, and stunning cars.

Liz Nead – The Six Voices Luncheon

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Rollins Mansion — $50 — Experience interactive insights from Emmy-winning speaker Liz Nead on communication and self-understanding.

First Friday at Mainframe Art Studios

5-8 p.m. — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Explore creative workspaces and support local artists at this themed open house event.