Good morning, West Des Moines.

A new Feeding America study using 2023 data shows that food insecurity is rising in Iowa with 385,000 residents—including 120,000 children—facing hunger as federal cuts and stagnant wages reduce essential food supplies.

Annette Hacker at the Food Bank of Iowa said 73 million meals are needed and that donations will be vital to help residents in tougher times.

Mariangela Hungria, a Brazilian microbiologist, was named the 2025 World Food Prize Laureate last night at an event in Des Moines—she is the tenth woman to win the prize and her fertilizer innovation now benefits over 40 million hectares of farmland while saving farmers an estimated $250 billion each year. She will attend the annual World Food Prize Symposium in Des Moines this fall.

Negotiators are finalizing deals on a more than $9.4 billion state budget as the legislative session may end today or early tomorrow.

Legislators approved five spending bills including one that recommends $1 million for University of Iowa cancer research — lawmakers remain divided on the funding levels.

Iowa’s largest non-profit animal shelter reported a rise in cases of canine parvovirus that cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in dogs.

Dr. M.C. Cates stressed that early veterinary care and up-to-date vaccinations are essential for pet safety—owners should avoid public areas to limit spread.

Iowa native Brody Brecht, who played for Ankeny Hawk and Iowa Hawkeyes (picked 38th overall in the 2024 MLB draft by the Colorado Rockies) began his pro career in single-A Fresno.

He had a 3.21 ERA in six games and 34 strikeouts in 19 innings (scouts praised his 100+ mph fastball and sharp slider).

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.

Abstract Citizen Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticketed event — Experience an evening of jazz with Abstract Citizen in Des Moines.

Founders Live Pitch Competition

6-9 p.m. — Confluence Brewing Company — Free entry — Experience a thrilling pitch competition showcasing local startups and their innovative ideas.

Legal Essentials for Entrepreneurs

11:30 a.m. — 204 12th St, Des Moines, IA — Free entry — Learn how to protect your business ideas and avoid costly legal battles in this fun and informative workshop.

DMPL & Dragons: Monthly Dungeons & Dragons Gathering

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Unleash your imagination in a thrilling evening of Dungeons & Dragons adventures.

Iowa Barnstormers Military Night

7:05 PM — Wells Fargo Arena — Tickets available — Cheer on the Barnstormers in their annual Military Night showdown against the Tulsa Oilers.

Spa n’ B with Eden

6-9 p.m. — Surety Hotel — Mini spa treatments and refreshments available — Enjoy an evening of R&B and self-care with skincare consultations and a laid-back vibe.

Brick Fest Live

1-5 p.m. — Iowa Events Center — Entry fee applies — Enjoy a day filled with creativity and fun at this LEGO-themed event.