Good morning, Des Moines.

Food Bank of Iowa warned that the budget reconciliation bill passed this summer will raise SNAP costs and worsen food insecurity for nearly one in eight Iowans, as charities struggle to replace lost USDA food aid.

The organization said that reduced government support is forcing more fundraising efforts—potentially adding $26 million to $79 million in extra SNAP costs over the next two years.

Des Moines police arrested three suspects in connection with a weekend shooting at the 100 block of University Avenue, where first responders arrived just before 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and took a critically injured man to a local hospital while further arrests are expected.

Des Moines police ask the public to help find missing 85-year-old Don Brockman—who has dementia and Alzheimer’s—as he was last seen before 6 p.m. Wednesday in the Union Park neighborhood wearing a blue windbreaker and dark gray sweatpants; anyone with information should call 911.

Iowa Restaurant Association president Jessica Dunker said rising food and labor costs are forcing local restaurants, bars and pubs to increase menu prices and that up to 600 may close this year—she added a 2024 survey showed half of these establishments struggled to turn a profit.

Des Moines Prep opened this week as the city’s first charter school in the East Village in a renovated 90-year-old building between SE 5th and 6th streets—enrolling 125 students.

It is tuition free, accepts students from across the metro area, and will add a gym, theater, and field next year to support its college-prep focus.

Dallas Center-Grimes School District voters will decide on November 4 whether to approve an $88 million bond issue that will renovate high and middle schools and build inclusive elementary playgrounds.

The district said property taxes will not increase and the debt service levy will remain at $4.05 per $1,000 of valuation.

In Des Moines, Oakridge Neighborhood’s adult driver education program paired immigrants and refugees with instructors to overcome language and cultural barriers—driving instructor Abubaker Mohammed taught a class on Aug.

4. The program helped adult learners get safe, clear guidance during their driving lessons.

Construction continued on the ICON Water Trails project at the confluence of the Raccoon and Des Moines rivers south of the Scott Avenue bridge on August 26 — fishermen cast lines near the developing rapids.

Former attorney Matthew Boles of Des Moines admitted neglecting a client’s case and overbilling her and filed for reinstatement of his law license last month—his license remains suspended pending review by the Iowa Supreme Court.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!

Downtown Farmers' Market

7 AM – 12 PM — Court District — Free entry — Celebrate local produce and artisanal goods at Des Moines' vibrant farmers' market.

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.

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.

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.

Graphic Design Bootcamp

2-8 p.m. — Bank of America Building — Course fees apply — Gain hands-on experience with essential graphic design tools and techniques.

Awakening Events: Christian Music Concert

6-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of uplifting Christian music in downtown Des Moines.

Touchdown Tailgate

11 AM – 4 PM — Cowles Commons — Free admission — Celebrate the Cyhawk takeover with a fun-filled day at Cowles Commons.

Harry Potter Night at Iowa Cubs

1:08-2:38 PM — Principal Park — $13+ — Experience the magic of Harry Potter with themed entertainment and a kids' run around the bases.

Writers' Workshop 2025

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — No registration required — Share your work and receive valuable feedback from fellow writers.

VolunTEENS Work Time

3-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free opportunity — Engage in a fun and rewarding volunteer activity at the library.