Good morning, West Des Moines.

Iowa’s foster care system faces a shortage of licensed homes — nearly 1,700 homes for almost 2,400 children referred last year.

Emma Pischel of Four Oaks Foster and Adoptive Family Connections said the agency is now reaching out to new families to help meet the need.

The Iowa Court of Appeals upheld Urbandale man David Moffitt’s conviction for first-degree murder and burglary (convicted in 2014) after a jury ruled he planned the killing when he broke into his ex-girlfriend’s new fiancé’s home (where he shot him in the head four times while he slept).

West Des Moines police are asking the public for help finding Claire Cassidy Carlson, a 28-year-old woman believed to be in crisis and last seen at parks with large bodies of water in the Des Moines metro area — she is white, has hazel eyes and brown/blonde hair, stands 5 feet 7 inches tall, and is often in leggings and sweatshirts; anyone who sees her is urged to call Westcom dispatch at 515-222-3321.

On Tuesday night, the Iowa Wildlife Center released 46 rescued bats at Gray’s Lake after over 100 bats had been taken in for care during winter—this step helps the bats before hibernation.

The center will release another group on Wednesday night in Ames to continue its rehabilitation efforts.

Federal officials granted Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds a waiver to launch the pilot Healthy Kids Iowa program that will supply food boxes to low-income families this summer—eligible families will pick up $40 of nutritious food per school-aged child monthly at local pantries.

On May 7th, Iowa DOT reported that over 76% of Iowans had upgraded to Real ID driver’s licenses for air travel—TSA data showed 85—87% compliance at airports.

Those who have not upgraded must present another form of ID to board a plane or visit IowaDOT.gov for an appointment.

Senator Dan Dawson of Council Bluffs unveiled a new tax plan that drops the $50,000 exemption and gives every home a 25% break on its value up to $125,000 — a change aimed at better serving both small and big communities.

He said the bill keeps a 2% cap on local budget rises while allowing for inflation adjustments and will be reviewed further before a final vote.

Today, the Iowa National Guard opened a new readiness center in West Des Moines at a ribbon cutting attended by Governor Kim Reynolds and National Guard Adjutant General Stephen Osborn; the center will house about 200 soldiers from the Red Bull 168th Infantry Regiment and 2168th Transportation Company. The more than 54-thousand square foot facility is near the interstates (enabling rapid statewide deployment) and will serve as a hub for training and community connection.

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.

Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show

6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown — $67.95 + taxes & fees — Experience a hilarious interactive murder mystery dinner show while enjoying a fantastic meal.

Valley Junction Arts Festival

11 AM – 5 PM — Historic Valley Junction — Free entry — Celebrate creativity with over 50 artists showcasing their work, live entertainment, and local food vendors.