Saturday, August 2nd, 2025

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Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 2nd of August.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ An Iowa woman accused of taking nearly $436,000 in taxpayer funds between 2015 and 2022 has not been charged as federal prosecutors review the case — state and local agencies say no criminal referrals have been made. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ Des Moines police reported a possible loose python in the Waterbury neighborhood on August 1 and have consulted a reptile expert; residents are urged to avoid the animal and call 515-283-4811 if they see it. The Des Moines Register
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ At the 2025 Iowa State Fair, JR’s SouthPork Ranch has unveiled a $100 lobster roll featuring gold-painted brioche, Maine lobster and Hackleback caviar—while a $600 upgrade doubles the dish with an extra lobster roll and a bottle of Dom Perignon, and the menu also offers Chicken Pickle Ranch Rocket on a Stick, a chicken and waffle breakfast sandwich, and lobster biscuits and gravy. Chef Sarah Strong-Tuttle and co-owner Brooks Reynolds expect these extravagant options to boost sales from last year as the stand continues serving fairgoers on Rock Island Avenue in Des Moines. The Des Moines Register
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday at Iowa Speedway in Newton, a sold-out NASCAR event brought a $100 million boost to the local economy—helping new businesses and housing grow in Newton and Jasper County. Practice and qualifiers are scheduled for tomorrow while the Sunday main event will start at 2:30 p.m. KCCI
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Iowa DNR report released Aug. 1 shows 17 beaches statewide — including two near Des Moines — are not recommended for swimming after tests in late July found high levels of E. coli or toxic algae. Three new sites were added to the list while one beach improved to safe conditions. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ On August 1, flood waters covered grass, closed part of the northwest parking lot and trail at Gray's Lake, and rose along the Principal Riverwalk in downtown Des Moines—showing rising water levels in the area. The Des Moines Register
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Sam’s Club has recalled its Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack 15-count after internal tests found possible Listeria contamination in products sold between July 1 and July 25, including at stores in Iowa — customers who purchased it should throw the snack away and return it for a refund. No illnesses were reported — health officials warn Listeria can cause severe illness in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. WHO 13
SHOP NEWS
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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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Summer Music Series with Casey Peasley
5:00-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer in the heart of summer.
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Galactic Empire Concert
7:00 – 8:30 PM — Wooly's — $47 to $157 — Experience a unique concert by Galactic Empire that combines Star Wars themes with live music.
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Drop-In Tech Help
2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free — Get assistance with your electronic devices from knowledgeable library staff.
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Iowa Cubs Summer Blood Drive
7:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. — Principal Park — Free entry — Donate blood, save lives, and get a chance to win prizes with the Iowa Cubs.
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2025 Downtown Farmers' Market
7 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Historic Court District — Free entry — Explore local produce, artisan foods, and more at this vibrant community market.
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Double Date Speed Dating at Secret Admirer
2-5 p.m. — Secret Admirer — Ticket for 2 people — Enjoy a fun and interactive double date speed dating experience for singles aged 25-38.
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Iowa State Fair
7 PM – 1 AM — Iowa State Fairgrounds — Waitlist available — Experience the excitement of Iowa's largest outdoor event with food, rides, and entertainment.
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VolunTEENS Library Opportunity
4-5 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Volunteer opportunity — Help out at the library while gaining community service experience.
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Sara Sato's 'Notes from the Sea' Exhibit Opening
6:30-8 p.m. — Heritage Art Gallery — Free entry — Explore a unique meditation on our relationship with nature through the diverse stories of water and its enigmatic inhabitants.
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Jane Monheit Performance
7 PM — Noce — Cost not listed — Experience the enchanting jazz interpretations of vocalist Jane Monheit.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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Welcome to the Daily Des Moines, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Des Moines, Iowa community. If you like the Daily Des Moines, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Des Moines.
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