Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 9th of July.
Good morning, West Des Moines.
UnityPoint Health confirmed on July 7 that it will outsource revenue cycle functions to Omega Healthcare and cut over 200 IT jobs, affecting less than 1% of its staff in central Iowa + patient care and clinical operations will not be impacted.
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the first measles case this year in a vaccinated adult who got infected abroad — the person visited 20 sites in central Iowa between July 1 and July 5, and anyone potentially exposed is advised to monitor for symptoms for 21 days.
After rain dampened Independence Day celebrations, fire safety expert Ryan Lock says leftover fireworks must be stored safely to prevent fires and injuries.
Residents should keep fireworks away from flammable liquids — out of reach of children—and dispose of them by soaking or returning them to the fire department.
City leaders in West Des Moines unveiled updated plans for the Grand Experience — a $400 million, 226-acre project near the MidAmerican RecPlex featuring a 142-room hotel, convention center, parking, residential housing, indoor water park and a new 6,000-seat amphitheater pending a council vote Friday.
Iowa Congressman Zach Nunn and fellow lawmakers urged the WNBA to strengthen safety measures for West Des Moines native Caitlin Clark, who has faced several on-court incidents — including being hip-checked, poked in the eye, and struck in the throat.
The group requested a response from the league by July 24.
Western Gateway Outdoor Handmade Show
8 a.m.-6 p.m. — Western Gateway Park — Free entry — Discover unique handmade gems and enjoy a vibrant community gathering in a beautiful park setting.
2026 YES Summer Kitchen Chemistry Camp
Saturdays, Jul 11-25 — Mickle Center Business & Neighborhood Resources — Check event page for pricing — Dive into the exciting world of food science and discovery with hands-on activities and experiments.
Garden Bros Nuclear Circus
1-4 p.m. — Merle Hay Mall — Tickets start at $29 — Experience the unforgettable thrills of the Garden Bros Nuclear Circus in Des Moines.
Jinjer Concert at Val Air Ballroom
7-8:30 p.m. — Val Air Ballroom — Tickets from $52 — Experience a night of metal with Jinjer in West Des Moines.
Community Craft Night: Fuse Beads
6:00-7:30 p.m. — North Side Library — Free entry — Drop in to create nostalgic Perler bead designs while enjoying the company of fellow crafters.
National Hot Dog Day Celebration
4-9 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Gourmet specials on hot dogs — Enjoy a night of delicious glizzys and live tunes from The Sheet.
Todd Packer Trivia Show
7-8:30 p.m. — Des Moines Funny Bone — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of comedy and trivia with David Koechner's humorous performance.
Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Iowa Events Center — $125 – $525 — A meaningful gathering for women to grow in faith and connect through workshops and service.
Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market Featuring Karley's Collections
7 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market — Free entry — Explore a vibrant market with over 300 vendors and unique handcrafted items.
Des Moines Regional Sports Card Show - Summer 2026
10 AM - 3 PM — The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex — Free Admission — Explore a diverse array of sports cards and memorabilia from Midwest vendors.
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