Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 12th of June.
Good morning, West Des Moines.
🌲 Environment
Blank Park Zoo welcomed a four-year-old male eastern black rhino named AJ from the Cincinnati Zoo as part of its Species Survival Plan—officials say his arrival will support a diverse breeding population.
His full name, Ajani Joe, means he who wins the struggle in Swahili.
Central Iowa Water Works raised its voluntary water reduction order from 25% to 50% to help ease water supply issues caused by high nitrate levels, and its Fleur Drive Treatment Plant has run at full capacity for over 50 days.
The company urged residents to water lawns only one day a week and avoid car washing while it pulls water from alternate sources like the Maffitt Reservoir — mandatory cuts may follow if reductions do not occur.
🏛️ Government
KCCI Investigates reviewed the Satanic Temple Iowa's application for a family-friendly holiday event at the State Capitol—featuring a ritual with Krampus costumes, caroling and craft activities—for a December 14 celebration.
State officials denied the event citing harm to minors, and the ACLU of Iowa filed a complaint while Governor Reynolds defended the Capitol as a public place for families.
🏥 Health
Iowa HHS announced on Wednesday that a third measles case was detected while the Polk County Health Department said they had been preparing for an outbreak for months—staff are ready to respond if more cases emerge.
The department is offering free MMR vaccines and doctors urge adults who were vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 to check their records and get a booster if needed.
🎉 West Des Moines Events
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Instrument Petting Zoo with Des Moines Symphony
10:00 – 10:45 AM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Children explore string instruments guided by a symphony musician.
NAMI Family Support Group
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free of cost — A peer-led support group for adults with loved ones facing mental health challenges, offering insight and community support.
Father's Day Car Show
8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Hawk Heaven Tavern — $10 registration — Celebrate Father's Day with a showcase of unique cars and family-friendly activities.
Drop-in Craft: Mini Dino Parachutes
Craft times — All week — Des Moines Public Library — Free — Make mini parachutes for your favorite dino and have fun while learning at the library.
Alzheimer's Association Happy Hour
4-6 p.m. — Lua Brewing — Free entry — Unwind and connect over drinks while supporting a great cause in a relaxed atmosphere.
Mindfulness Meditation Workshop
1:30 – 2:30 PM — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Explore the roots of mindfulness and engage in a guided meditation session.
Kindermusik Class
5:30-6:15 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Cost varies — Explore the magical world of music designed for young children.
Mini Dino Parachutes Craft
All day — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Create your very own Mini Dino Parachutes during a fun drop-in craft session this summer.
Fast Henry Duo Live Performance
12-3 p.m. — Annie’s Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy the local sounds of Fast Henry Duo while relaxing at your favorite Irish pub.
Summer Music Series: Jonas Magram
5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — All-day happy hour with $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes at this local summer event.
🏠 West Des Moines Real Estate
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💼 West Des Moines Job Board
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📣 West Des Moines Announcements
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