Hey there, West Des Moines! Let's get started with what's happening in and around town. Read on and stay in the loop. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Baby Doll Storytime and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What happened to the pregnant cat that ate yarn? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. Midwest cities jumping at opportunity to bring in Buc-ee's (beaumontenterprise.com) — West Des Moines leaders are actively courting Buc-ee's after Urbandale's council rejected a proposed travel center, hoping to land what would be Iowa's first location. The mayor has launched a petition to rally residents behind the massive project, which could bring heavy traffic, jobs, and a new highway landmark to the western suburbs.
2. Check out these 10 famous people from the state of Iowa (qctimes.com) — Two of the state's biggest modern sports stars, basketball phenom Caitlin Clark and Olympic champion gymnast Shawn Johnson, both hail from West Des Moines. This statewide roundup of famous Iowans highlights how their local roots led to record-breaking college careers, professional success, and international medals, offering a proud reminder of the talent that's grown up in your own backyard.
3. Measles Outbreaks In Multiple States Could Leave Thousands Exposed As The US Records Its First Deaths This Year (nybreaking.com) — Health officials say people may have been exposed to measles at Vero Health Center and Office Depot in West Des Moines, part of a growing Iowa outbreak tied to multiple public locations. While the overall risk is far lower for those fully vaccinated, residents are urged to check their MMR status and watch for symptoms like fever, cough, and rash after recent visits.
4. National high school football rankings: Upsets reshape USA TODAY Sports Super 50 (usatoday.com) — Dowling Catholic of West Des Moines is currently ranked Iowa's top high school football team in USA TODAY's latest state-by-state list, following a strong 2-0 start. The national rundown shows how Maroons football stacks up against powerhouse programs across the country, giving local fans another reason to watch this season closely.
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Ok West Des Moines! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: She had mittens! (Thank you April M. for sending it in!)
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