Daily
Des Moines
Wednesday, August 20th, 2025
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Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 20th of August.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ FBI agents arrested former gymnastics coach Sean Gardner in West Des Moines on a federal child pornography charge + he was accused of sexually abusing young gymnasts and secretly filming others while he coached. KCCI
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Nearly 1.2 million people attended the Iowa State Fair, coming within 22,000 of last year's record and benefiting from new covered walkways + air-conditioned buildings that kept visitors comfortable during harsh weather. Nightly concert ticket sales set a record with 132,000 buyers as Megan Moroney led the top draw while preparations for next year's Fair continue with renovations and new projects. Radio Iowa
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The EPA overturned a 2024 ruling that added protections for Iowa waterways serving 500,000 residents by removing seven urban water supplies from the impaired list—raising concerns over public health risks from high nitrate levels due to agricultural runoff. This decision leaves drinking water more vulnerable as nitrate contamination remains above safe limits. Iowa Starting Line
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Des Moines City Council approved a 7.5% franchise fee increase on utility bills for the next five years to support DART services. The fee adds about $30 per year to a $100 bill — two council members opposed the change. KCCI
- ➤ Des Moines City Council approved a fee increase on gas and electric bills from 5% to 7.5% on Aug. 18 to cover DART's projected $6.7 million deficit and avoid service cuts—some council members had pressed to delay the vote to better assess the transit overhaul. The Des Moines Register
WELLNESS NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR BetterHelp makes getting support simple and practical. They match people with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and sessions happen by phone, video, or chat from wherever life takes you. For a limited time, get 25% off your first month. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Des Moines.
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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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Cloakroom
7-8:30 p.m. — xBk Live — Live music event — Experience the haunting melodies of Glass Ox as they perform 'Rushes of Evil'.
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Bingo Loco Event
7:30-10:30 p.m. — 7 Flags Event Center — General Admission — Enjoy a night of outrageous bingo with prizes, dance-offs, and more in a lively atmosphere.
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Downtown Farmers' Market
7 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Court District — Free entry — Explore local produce, artisan goods, and festive community atmosphere at this vibrant market.
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World Food and Music Festival 2025
11 AM – 5 PM — Western Gateway Park — Free entry — Experience diverse cuisines from 23 countries alongside vibrant live music and local vendors.
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2025 All 4 Youth Golf Classic
9 AM – 4 PM — A.H. Blank Golf Course — Donations may be tax deductible — Support underserved students through educational scholarships while enjoying a day of golf.
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Central States Shrine Association Annual Convention 2025
8 AM – 5 PM — West Des Moines Marriott — Cost info TBA — Gather with fellow Shriners for a celebratory convention featuring a parade and activities.
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Jackyl Concert
7:00-8:30 PM — Wooly's — $58-$925 per ticket — Enjoy a high-energy performance by the southern rock band Jackyl in the heart of Des Moines.
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Downtown Farmers' Market
7 AM – 12 PM — Court District — Free entry — Celebrate local produce and artisanal goods at Des Moines' vibrant farmers' market.
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Summer Music Series: David Watson at Exile Brewing
5:00-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes during this summer event.
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Monthly Writing Night
7-9 p.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Engage in a relaxed evening of creativity with fellow writers and prompts to spark new ideas.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
What you resist, persists.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Des Moines
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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