Good morning, West Des Moines.

Iowa motorists must be extra cautious this afternoon as tens of thousands of children head home from their first day of school, with AAA-Iowa advising drivers to avoid distractions and slow down in school zones & watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, and scooter riders.

Experts stress that both drivers and young travelers must follow this safety guidance to prevent accidents.

The Des Moines Symphony Orchestra will host free concerts over Labor Day weekend at Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park—Saturday will feature '80s tunes like Material Girl and Footloose, while Sunday will have '70s disco with hits from Gloria Gaynor and Earth, Wind and Fire. The shows will offer free parking, free admission and a costume contest, and both performances start at 7:30.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins warned at the Iowa State Fair that a confirmed human case of the dangerous New World Screwworm, contracted by a traveler from El Salvador, could soon harm cattle herds.

The USDA is building a Texas facility to release sterile flies and is boosting border measures — steps aimed at stopping the parasite from reaching U.S. soil.

After booking a trip for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, some Iowa State fans missed their trip to Ireland when a flight from Chicago was canceled due to weather, and they are now seeking a refund for their $14,000 travel package—leaving them without key tours and game events.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Christian Music Concert in Des Moines

6-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting music from talented Christian artists in a welcoming atmosphere.

Touch A Truck!

2-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Explore various trucks and enjoy fire safety activities and games for all ages.

Summer Music Series: Joseph Demerath at Exile Brewing

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and cold beer in a vibrant patio setting.