Daily
West Des Moines
Friday, September 12th, 2025
Good morning, West Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 12th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Iowans marked the 24th anniversary of 9/11 with a march to the state capitol and a tribute walk at Gray’s Lake — where 2,977 American flags honored those lost and teachers shared lessons with young residents. The event united many locals in a solemn remembrance of history. KCCI
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A multi-vehicle crash on I-35/80 at Douglas caused a 3-minute delay for northbound drivers and nearly a 10-minute delay for southbound commuters in Urbandale on Thursday, and the I-35/80 Hickman on-ramp reopened at 5 a.m.—easing traffic for westbound travelers. KCCI
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Traffic deaths on Iowa roads are 32 lower than this day last year, with 191 fatalities recorded so far; DOT director Scott Marler said the state will use new safety technology — like long-wait detection systems — to further cut the toll. Marler noted that the current fatality count is 43 below the five-year average for this date and stressed that every fatality matters. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Polk County Jail introduced a re-entry kiosk that helps released inmates access housing, jobs, and healthcare—this project is a collaboration with county mental health and Saint Vincent de Paul funded by an opioid settlement. The kiosk will operate Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to provide a private space for working with advisors and reducing re-incarceration. WHO13
- ➤ West Des Moines Police Chief Chris Scott—who began his career in 1998 with Indianola—announced he will retire on March 2, 2026 after 28 years of service; the city will start its search for a new chief at a meeting on September 25. This planned transition gives the City time to secure next steps for local leadership. WHO13
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ After the shooting of Charlie Kirk, videos showing the event have spread on social media and reached unintended audiences, including children; local experts say social media companies face a monumental challenge removing the disturbing content. A mental health counselor and an engineering professor recommend that parents report the videos and talk with children about what they see—helping them process the images safely. KCCI
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Week 3 of Football Friday Primetime brings a gridiron matchup at Valley Stadium between the Urbandale J-Hawks and the Valley Tigers—local reporters interviewed coaches and players and kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. today. WHO13
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Big Used Book Sale 2025
10 AM – 5 PM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Supports the library — Explore a treasure trove of used books, CDs, and more for a good cause.
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Laughternoon Comedy Show
3-5 p.m. — Americana — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy an afternoon filled with non-stop laughter featuring stand-up comedians and improv sketches.
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Fall Author Series: David Ellis
7-8 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Engage with Edgar-award-winning author David Ellis as he shares insights into his crime novels and career.
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Trivia Night at Exile Brewing
6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Enjoy happy hour specials — Test your knowledge with weekly Trivia hosted by Trophy Husband Trivia.
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Touch-a-Truck!
11 a.m.–12 p.m. — North Side Library — Free entry — Explore a variety of city vehicles including fire engines and garbage trucks.
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Kid-Friendly Brewery Tour
11:00-11:45 a.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free entry — A fun and educational brewery tour perfect for kids aged 5-12 featuring science and big machinery.
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Des Moines Fairytale Ball
10:00 AM-4:30 PM — The Tea Room — Tickets required — Experience enchanting performances and meet your favorite fairytale characters at this magical event.
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Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad
6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity weekly with diverse hands-on art activities for all ages and skill levels.
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Teen Chef: Puppy Chow Three Ways
4-5 p.m. — Franklin Avenue Library — Registration required — Learn to craft three versions of puppy chow with cereal, popcorn, cookies, and more.
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Trivia Night at Exile Brewing
6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Enjoy happy hour pricing — Test your knowledge with weekly Trophy Husband Trivia.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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~ Mark Zuckerberg
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