Good morning, West Des Moines.

Iowans have until May 7 to obtain a Real ID, required for boarding domestic flights and accessing certain federal facilities, with 80% of residents already compliant.

Volunteers sang Christmas carols at the Des Moines VA Hospital for the first time since the pandemic, offering comfort and appreciation to veterans.

An ongoing construction project to add an extra lane to a portion of the I-80/35 interstate in Urbandale, Iowa, expected to be completed in 2025 with subsequent traffic disruptions until 2028 due to additional work on the Hickman interchange, has caused mixed reactions among commuters.

The Governor's School Safety Task Force in Iowa is finalizing its safety and security recommendations for schools to be submitted to state legislators by December 31.

The Iowa DNR is providing nearly $416,000 in grants to over 100 rural fire departments to acquire equipment necessary for combating wildfires, with aims to address safety and effectiveness in less-funded areas.

Former Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert, after retiring, has started serving on the Iowa Board of Parole, a role that began on November 12 and will last until April 30, 2025.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is advocating for a constitutional amendment to allow child victims to testify from remote locations, counteracting a Supreme Court ruling.

The Polk County Health Department's Lead Hazard Home Repair program, funded by a federal grant, offers free lead removal to eligible homes to protect children's health.

Holiday Movie Night at the Science Center

The Science Center of Iowa will host a Holiday Movie Night featuring a screening of 'The Polar Express', with activities and snacks for families.

Deck the Halls - Central Iowa Wind Ensemble Performance

Experience an evening of festive melodies performed by the Central Iowa Wind Ensemble at the Staplin Performing Arts Center.

Shut Up & Write!® Des Moines Writing Session

This event offers a focused writing session for individuals looking to make progress on their writing projects in a supportive environment.

Asian Cooking Class: Learn to Make Vegetable Dumplings

Participants will learn to prepare vegetable dumplings with guidance from CultureALL ambassadors, featuring a different dish in each session of this three-part cooking series.

Triple Chocolate Shortbread Baking Class

Attendees will learn to make triple chocolate shortbread with Pie Bird Pies, enjoying samples and receiving recipes and baking media recommendations.

Jingle in the Junction Holiday Celebration

Many businesses in Valley Junction extend their hours on Thursdays, offering opportunities to shop for holiday gifts and enjoy free entertainment amidst festive lights.

Community Resource Connection Event

The Des Moines Public Library collaborates with local organizations to provide information on community resources such as meal sites and shelters, along with support for various needs.

Ugly Sweater Speed Dating Event for Ages 35-45

A speed dating event for singles aged 35-45 featuring an ugly sweater theme, allowing participants to connect over a series of short conversations.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra Holiday Show

Experience a festive evening with the Glenn Miller Orchestra as they perform classic holiday songs alongside timeless hits from their legendary repertoire.

NOLA Holiday Show featuring the NOLA Jazz Band

Experience the vibrant sounds of the NOLA Jazz Band at the Noce Jazz Club, a premier destination for live music in Des Moines.