Good morning, Des Moines.

Leaders at Jordan Creek Mall confirmed today that the new Toys ‘R’ Us store will open by November (taking over the old Forever 21 location across from the food court) as part of a comeback plan after declaring bankruptcy in 2017 (with seven new stores planned nationwide).

Southern rust cut into Iowa corn yields this year after record wet July and warm August helped the fungus thrive, with losses reaching up to 40% in north-central areas as reported by Iowa State plant pathologist Alison Robertson—farmers who applied fungicide early faced less damage and may see crop insurance and updated farm payments help offset revenue losses.

Polk County leaders will invest $200,000 in the Iowa Water Quality Information System to keep river and stream sensors working next year.

The funding—one-third of the network's annual budget—comes after the University of Iowa lost state support in 2023 and as other counties are encouraged to help protect local water quality.

Des Moines Public Schools said a DMPS high school student was detained during a late-September immigration check-in at the Federal Building downtown and later deported by ICE—advocates reported the student was held at Hardin County Jail before being sent to a detention center in Louisiana while Iowa congress members were contacted to help reunite the student with their guardian.

The Des Moines Water Works board of trustees approved a 7% rate increase for 600,000 users that will take effect Jan.

1 and will raise the fixed fee from $6 to $7 per month while also increasing water volume rates, with some areas seeing a 10% rise and commercial customers facing a $10.70 irrigation fee—DMWW serves Des Moines and nearby communities.

An 18-year-old DMPS student was detained during a routine immigration check-in on Sept.

30 at the Federal Building in Des Moines and was deported days later after being briefly held in local and Louisiana detention facilities—leaving his guardian without contact as advocates call on Iowa’s congressional delegation to help reunite them.

On day 23 of the government shutdown, local leaders and food banks say delays in SNAP funding—$45 million monthly—will force emergency measures as food need rises and first-time pantry users appear.

Governor Reynolds and officials urged Iowans to contact their elected representatives to reopen the government if the shutdown continues.

Many eligible Iowa seniors have not enrolled in SNAP because of confusing applications, pride, and stigma—federal cuts to SNAP and the end of nutrition education funding may worsen food insecurity as more seniors rely on local food pantries.

Outreach programs have reached tens of thousands, yet low enrollment persists, leaving many older adults struggling to stretch their incomes for food.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

To Grandmother’s House We Go

9 a.m. — Brown's Woods — Entry Fee $40 — Tackle a spooky trail run on the unpaved paths of Brown's Woods with options for 5k, 10k, or 15k distances.

Beggar's Brunch at Exile Brewing

10 AM – 2 PM — Exile Brewing Company — Free entry — Celebrate Beggar's Night with costume fun and bingo for prizes.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity with a new hands-on art activity each week.

K-pop Meet-up

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow K-pop fans, trade photocards, and enjoy snacks and music.

Halloween Party

11 AM - 1 PM — Des Moines Women's Club — Paid entry — Enjoy ghoul-themed games, a catered buffet, and craft activities at this festive Halloween gathering.

Trivia Night: Halloween Edition

6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints during happy hour — Test your knowledge at this fun weekly trivia event with Trophy Husband Trivia.

The Outreach Project

1-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with community resources and advocate support for health and ID assistance.

An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma

7:30-9 p.m. — Des Moines Civic Center — Tickets available — Experience legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma in a special performance blending music and reflections on art and humanity.

Iowa Reptile Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines — Tickets available at the door — A family-friendly event featuring thousands of reptiles, amphibians, and supplies to explore.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity with a hands-on art activity each week in a fun and welcoming environment.