Daily
Des Moines
Wednesday, April 15th, 2026
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 15th of April.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A United Express flight (Flight 6064) from Chicago O'Hare to Sioux City landed safely at Des Moines International Airport Tuesday evening after a mechanical issue was reported; SkyWest Airlines said it is helping passengers resume travel. KCCI
- ➤ DOT’s Stuart Anderson told the state Transportation Commission that traffic deaths reached 73 fatalities (April 13) in Iowa, which is 15 above last year’s count and more than the five-year average, with January and March numbers also higher than last year. Radio Iowa
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Prom season is in full swing among Des Moines students as they prepare for a memorable night with elegant formalwear and shared photo collections from schools like Waukee Northwest & Johnston. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ The Iowa State Fair will add six new attractions celebrating America's 250 anniversary over Aug. 13-23, 2026+ including a tree planting on April 24 at 9 a.m. and nightly drone shows after Grandstand fireworks that feature exhibits on military history, art, and agriculture. The Des Moines Register
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Des Moines Public Schools released an overview of district numbers today that shows enrollment + staffing figures and other key metrics for the academic year. The Des Moines Register
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The National Weather Service is surveying damage from possible tornado touchdowns last night near Graettinger, Emmet, and Clay counties — wind gusts reached 60 mph in Carroll County — while forecasters warn central and eastern Iowa may see more severe weather later today. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Iowa skywatchers can view the historic Lyrid meteor shower, which is underway from April 14 until April 30 with peak activity (April 21–22) best seen in dark rural areas away from city lights. The Des Moines Register
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The U.S. Commerce Department gave Minden $1.2 million to build new water and sewer lines nearly two years after a deadly tornado hit the town, plus FEMA earlier provided $1.3 million to fix the water treatment plant. City leaders say recovery could take a decade. KCCI
- ➤ A bill approved by the Senate may allow eighth graders to participate in all high school sports if the governor signs, with the Iowa Department of Education setting rules (including open enrollment changes) and the new policies set to take effect Aug. 1. Radio Iowa
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Consumer Reports tested jar openers, door knob covers, and other tools — including the Humanfun Jar Opener and Redchef Detachable Handle — to help people with arthritis, injuries or limited strength use everyday items; Sarah Kovac’s team of disabled journalists and caregivers found these products ease daily tasks. KCCI
- ➤ Medics with the Des Moines Fire Department used a pilot blood transfusion program — adapted from a military process — to treat a stabbed security guard at Polk County Life Services Center and kept him stable until hospital transfer; the program began last November and may expand statewide. Radio Iowa
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New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness
This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!
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Home Improvement Loans Workshop
6-7 p.m. — Franklin Avenue Library — Free entry — Learn about home improvement loans and how to confidently renovate your home with NFC's financial assistance.
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Fred Hersch Live Performance
7-9 p.m. — Sheslow Auditorium — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the artistry of jazz legend Fred Hersch in a memorable live performance.
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Backgammon for Young Minds
8:30-10:30 a.m. — Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe — Free entry — A fun game day for kids to learn and enhance their Backgammon strategy skills.
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Billy Nation: A Tribute to Billy Joel
3-7 p.m. — Temple Theater — Cost info not provided — Experience the musical celebration of one of the best-selling artists of all time.
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Waldorf Alumni Meet-Up
5-7 p.m. — Confluence Brewing Company — First drink complimentary — Reconnect with Waldorf friends and enjoy great conversation in a welcoming atmosphere.
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Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes World Tour
7 p.m. — Casey's Center — $95 — Enjoy a night of outrageous comedy with Nate Bargatze as he brings laughter to Downtown Des Moines this spring.
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NAMI Family Support Group
10:30 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with others facing the challenges of supporting loved ones with mental health conditions.
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Clue - High School Edition
2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling high school rendition of the classic mystery game.
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Clue - High School Edition
2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a high school rendition of the classic mystery game.
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City Voices Spring Recital
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free admission — Enjoy a showcase of talented students performing a variety of songs from Classical, Contemporary, and Music Theater repertoires.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Good habits make time your ally. Bad habits make time your enemy.
~ James Clear
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