Good morning, Des Moines.

The Young Women’s Resource Center Book Sale will run from November 6th to November 9th at the Elwell Family Food Center of the Iowa State Fairgrounds—proceeds support counseling services, empowerment for students, and help for young moms in central Iowa.

A new statewide initiative aims to boost community donation gardens by linking Iowa garden organizers with expert-led education and shared resources.

Informational Zoom sessions about the network will be held tomorrow at 9 a.m., noon and 6 p.m.—the effort comes as funding for SNAP-Ed ends.

After SNAP payments paused on Nov.1 due to the government shutdown, many Iowans turned to food pantries for help feeding their families—local food banks report a surge in visits as families struggle with a $1.7 million monthly shortfall.

Gov. Reynolds has pledged up to $1 million in matching funds for six regional food banks, but local leaders say the funds will not fully meet rising needs.

Iowa Homes for Heroes celebrated its first home for veterans and first responders in Urbandale yesterday.

Gov. Kim Reynolds attended the ribbon cutting and the nonprofit built the home with help from partners—R&R Realty Group, Jerry's Homes, the state of Iowa and the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs.

At Miss Kitty’s Country Bar in Clive, the owner apologized on Monday for saying ‘just a costume’ after a video showed him defending a guest in a Nazi uniform on Halloween night—he now regrets his response and said bar policies will change to prevent future controversy.

Business has already suffered and community leaders, including the Jewish Federation, expressed disapproval.

Discounted tickets for the 2026 Iowa State Fair are now available at $11 for ages 12 and older and $7 for ages 6-11.

The fair runs from Aug. 13th–23rd, 2026 and offers attractions like the Giant Slide, Ye Old Mill and Barksdale's State Fair Cookies — organizers will announce the first Grandstand show in December — with orders accepted online.

Voters in the Southeast Polk Community School District are deciding on a $51 million bond referendum today that will fund a new elementary school, upgraded playgrounds, and junior high renovations – all planned to start immediately if the 60% vote threshold is met.

If the bond passes, playground upgrades will finish by 2026, junior high improvements by 2027, and the new elementary school will open for the 2028-29 school year while keeping property taxes steady.

Nonprofits helping low-income Iowans pay heating bills face uncertainty as the ongoing government shutdown delays LIHEAP payments; Danna Buls of MATURA Action Corporation said utilities block disconnections even if funds arrive late — and recent federal staff firings may further slow the process.

Iowa ranks among the top 10 states for centenarians as the 2020 census counted 1,032 people over 100—a rise from 846 in 2010—and researcher Dr. Peter Martin at Iowa State University says that healthy lifestyle, genetics and community ties play key roles in long life.

He noted that most centenarians live in metro areas with better access to medical care, a trend evident in places like the Suites of Ankeny.

Temperatures have dropped below freezing in several Iowa cities and many residents are using space heaters to warm their homes.

Lieutenant John Nelsen from Sioux City Fire Rescue warns not to leave heaters running nonstop and advises keeping a three‐foot space from combustibles — he also urges turning off candles before bed to prevent fires.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

RC Coffee Networking Event

9-10 a.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Connect with local remodelers over coffee and networking opportunities.

Holiday Social 2025

5-9 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $30 per person — Enjoy a casual evening of appetizers and drinks while mingling with fellow locals.

Elevated Dining Experience at Judges

5:45-7:45 p.m. — Judges — Cost varies — Enjoy shareable starters and inventive cocktails in a modern comfort food setting.

The Fitch Building Open Studio

6-9 p.m. — Fitch Studios LLC — Free entry — Explore a vibrant array of local artists showcasing their creative works in an interactive studio environment.

Des Moines Holiday Boutique

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — EMC Expo Center — $12 online, $14 at the door — Discover unique gifts from over 130 small businesses this holiday season.

Novel November Write In

4-7 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Keep your writing momentum going with fellow novelists during this collaborative write-in session.

Free Holiday Portraits at Exile Brewing

5-7 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free — Capture festive memories with free holiday portraits for your family or friends during your visit.

VolunTEENS Work Opportunity

4-5 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — A fun and rewarding volunteer chance for teens aged 12-18 at the library.

Les Miserables

1:00 – 2:30 pm — Des Moines Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the epic tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption in this acclaimed musical masterpiece.

Beaverdale Holiday Boutique

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Holy Trinity Catholic Church & School — $5 cash, $6 e-payment — Experience the festive holiday spirit with artisan crafts, baked goods, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.