Good morning, West Des Moines.

David Schroeder, a 65-year-old veteran, found his SNAP benefits stolen on May 8—he learned they were used in New Jersey even though he has no ties there—and his niece is helping him file to get a new card as the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reported 88 calls about similar thefts in two weeks.

On Thursday, groups including Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War worked together to research records and place granite headstones on 15 unmarked Union Civil War graves at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines—helping to preserve each soldier's legacy.

Retired fire investigator Bob Niffenegger noticed the missing markers while cleaning headstones and matched the grave pins with historical records.

The Iowa Senate passed Governor Reynolds’ proposal to add 460 residency spots over four years at 14 hospitals—aiming to ease the doctor shortage in rural Iowa—and to boost funds in a loan repayment program for new doctors with heavy debt.

Health leaders said more training in rural areas could help keep physicians working locally.

A Feeding America survey based on 2023 data shows that 385,000 Iowans face food insecurity, including over 120,000 children, and that every county is affected with the highest rates in many rural areas.

Food Bank of Iowa spokesperson Annette Hacker said cuts to SNAP benefits and rising prices are making it harder for food banks to meet needs—she urged generous donors to help close the gap.

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.

I Spy: Bikes

Find all the pictures in the Youth area for a prize — Various times — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate National Bike Month with a fun scavenger hunt for kids.