Friday, August 22nd, 2025
Good morning, West Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 22nd of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Larry’s Window Services dressed as superheroes and rappelled down the side of Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines to wash windows and bring joy to kids yesterday—an annual event that boosts the spirits of both patients and their families. WHO13
- ➤ Iowa CareGivers is launching a new website feature that lets care providers share their own stories—showing photos and testimonials from nurse aides and unpaid family caregivers who help older Iowans and people with disabilities live at home. This move aims to raise awareness about the vital support these workers provide. Radio Iowa
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Americana, a popular downtown brunch spot, will close on September 7 after nearly 15 years in business. It opened in 2011 and its Facebook post thanked customers for support — the team said it became a local favorite — as it prepares to end operations. WHO13
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ FBI officials are asking potential victims of former gymnastics coach Sean Michael Gardner (38) who worked at a West Des Moines gym to contact them if they were abused, after police seized hidden camera recordings during a May search of his apartment and Gardner is held in Mississippi with no Iowa charges filed. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Des Moines police are asking the public to help find teen Alek, 16, who left her east side home voluntarily and is believed to be with friends+ anyone with information should call 911. KCCI
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The DOT announced that SW 9th Street from Mulberry to Tuttle is closed for construction today until November and drivers should follow the detour via Mulberry St.—SW 7th St. and Tuttle St. to reach their destinations. Additionally, the I-235 entrance ramp from 19th Street will close tonight at 9 p.m. until Monday at 5 a.m. KCCI
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Gamer Jazz Concert
2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Experience the jazzy twists on iconic video game tunes performed live by the Des Moines Gamer Symphony Orchestra.
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Soul Revival Concert
2:30-5 p.m. — Surety Hotel, Autograph Collection — Food and beverages for purchase — Experience vibrant R&B and Gospel music that uplifts the soul.
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2025 All 4 Youth Golf Classic
9 AM – 4 PM — A.H. Blank Golf Course — Donations may be tax-deductible — Support underserved students pursue their education through golf.
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Central States Shrine Association Annual Convention 2025
8 AM – 5 PM — West Des Moines Marriott — Registration required — Celebrate community and fellowship at the annual gathering of Shriner enthusiasts.
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ITIL 4 Training to Boost Your Career
2-10 p.m. — HUB Tower — From $1,068.93 — Gain foundational skills in IT service management with ITIL training.
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Feel Good Fest
7 p.m.-12 a.m. — The Shop DSM - Event Center — No Refunds — A wellness party blending music, movement, and mindfulness for an uplifting experience.
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Bluegrass Matinee with William Lawson Group
11 a.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy bluegrass tunes in the Beer Garden with the William Lawson Group if the weather permits.
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Summer Music Series: David Watson
5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with a fantastic happy hour atmosphere.
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Monthly Writing Night
7-9 p.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — A casual evening dedicated to writing with prompts and fellowship among fellow writers.
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Baby Rhyme Time
9:30-10:00 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Engage with rhymes, songs, and stories during this nurturing session for babies and caregivers.
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Welcome to the Daily West Des Moines, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the West Des Moines, Iowa community. If you like the Daily West Des Moines, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in West Des Moines.
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