Thursday, August 21st, 2025

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Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Community Crate exhibit opened Wednesday, Aug. 20 at The Harkin Institute and shows housing challenges in central Iowa—focusing on redlining and homelessness—in a 20-foot container. Visitors can join free guided tours and drop off hygiene donations during the scheduled hours until Aug. 27. The Des Moines Register
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Bradley Jay Nall, 68, was charged with assault and fifth-degree criminal mischief after he removed placards that read 'TRUMP = HITLER' from a bridge railing on the 56th Street overpass above Interstate 235 on Aug. 12—he reportedly struck a protester during the incident. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ Des Moines man Derrick Earnest, 61, was sentenced to life for killing his girlfriend Holly Snowgren, 49, in a Des Moines alley in April 2024—surveillance video from nearby homes recorded his brutal beating and stabbing as her family testified. The Des Moines Register
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ The Greater Des Moines Partnership will honor six companies at the Regional Summit on Sept. 17 at the Iowa Events Center. The awards—given for capital investment and job creation—spotlight local economic growth. Downtown Des Moines
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Drake University students returned to campus on Aug. 20 and moved into residence halls for the 2025-2026 academic year—assistant coaches and volunteers helped unpack belongings at Carpenter and Stalnaker Halls in Des Moines. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ On August 19, the DMPS Central Nutrition Center prepared meals for the first day of school in Des Moines—staff measured ingredients and baked breadsticks to ensure every school received hot meals. 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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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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Des Moines Women's Club Opening Day
1-3 p.m. — Des Moines Women's Club — Free entry — Celebrate the kick-off of the club's 140th year with a musical cabaret performance featuring Jackie Schmillen.
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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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