Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025
Good morning, Des Moines. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 23rd of September.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Des Moines East High School is mourning the loss of 15-year-old freshman Santiago 'Santi' Rhone who was struck by a motorcycle Saturday night on Northeast 29th Street—community members will hold a candlelight vigil at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the school baseball field while the 23-year-old driver remains hospitalized. KCCI
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ The Hall DSM in Historic Valley Junction closed until further notice after the city council denied a liquor license to its new owner — city leaders cited a 2020 tax evasion charge against Maria Mendoza as the reason. KCCI
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ St. George Church is using the Telos Project — a bonding experience outside of regular services — to attract more young adults to its Orthodox faith. The church plans to continue these events to strengthen youth participation in its community. The Des Moines Register
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Iowa Department of Education released state report card data on Sept. 18 showing 35 schools need comprehensive support because they ranked in the bottom 5% of Title I and graduation measures—12 of these are in the Des Moines Independent Community School District. The Des Moines Register
- ➤ The Des Moines School Board will have four open seats this fall as five candidates run for positions—Board Chair Jackie Norris and board member Jenna Knox did not file and Ryan P. Howell and Skylar Mayberry-Mayes run unopposed while three candidates vie for two at-large seats. The Des Moines Register
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Clean water advocates filed a lawsuit in federal court challenging the EPA decision to roll back phosphorus limits on meat plants in Iowa. The lawsuit comes amid unsafe water conditions and record beach advisories — raising concerns over water quality — and calls for stronger protections. Iowa Starting Line
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On September 22, a Dallas County jury sided with Jim Nahas, the former HR director, in his wrongful termination lawsuit against Polk County. Nahas said he and Supervisor Matt McCoy were targeted for trying to improve county government—county officials stated the verdict will lead to changes in board policies. KCCI
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Iowa parents are warned that secret vaping hoodies hide vape devices that can let kids use nicotine, so wellness expert Michelle Gilbertson advises parents to talk with their children if they notice unusual, sweet scents. Gilbertson says makers use fruity flavors to lure youth—urging everyone to stay alert. Radio Iowa
- ➤ Local health officials are encouraged by federal guidelines for COVID shots that recommend them for most adults & advise parents to talk with their child's doctor. Juliann Van Liew from the Polk County Health Department says providers must offer individual counseling so vaccines stay widely available in our community. Radio Iowa
-
New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness
This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!
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
Don't look for happiness. Look for meaning.
~ Ryan Holiday
About 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.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Des Moines and across Iowa. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Daily Des Moines
A free Des Moines community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.

© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://dailydesmoines.com/sitemap