Good morning, Des Moines.

Iowa Pork Producers Association and Fareway Stores donated $20,000 worth of ground pork from October 28 to 29 to food banks in Des Moines and western Nebraska—providing over 38,000 servings of protein to help families facing food insecurity and supporting the ongoing Pork in the Pantry program.

Rexford Davidson, Kaycee Schippers and Justin David Smith won first terms on the Johnston school board after defeating three candidates with no incumbents running.

Davidson will recruit quality teachers — while Schippers and Smith tackle underfunding and early learning challenges — to help improve our schools.

Voters chose incumbent Michael Mortensen and challengers Ashley Frantz and Josh Mullin to fill three open Saydel school board seats serving about 1,400 students.

The unofficial results showed Mullin receiving 26% of the vote—Mortensen 24% and Frantz 20%.

On Nov. 4th, Ankeny voters approved a $130 million bond measure — with 63% backing — to fund new school facilities, including a career and technical education hub and upgraded athletic centers.

The district will start construction of the Hub in spring 2026 and high school additions in spring 2027 — projects finishing by fall 2029 without raising property taxes.

Four candidates won seats on the Waukee school board in Tuesday’s election — three incumbents, Michael Schrodt, Jaime Secory and Armel R.

Traore dit Nignan, and newcomer Becky Lachenmaier will serve four-year terms on the seven-member board.

Maria Alonzo and Sara Hopkins have won election to the Des Moines School Board’s at-large seats — Alonzo is an incumbent while Hopkins begins her first term.

Voters also reelected Skylar Mayberry-Mayes and chose Ryan P. Howell as the district’s new representative, and the board will soon face challenges restoring public trust and implementing a $265 million education plan.

Des Moines Public Schools declared victory on its $265 million bond vote on Nov.

4 after 74% of precincts reported support for a plan that will improve pre-kindergarten to 12th grade education by updating facilities, expanding STEM, and adding new school programs—efforts that will roll out over the next five years.

On Tuesday, Nov. 4, voters chose incumbents Keith Bormann and Matt Aicher and challenger Holly Hunter for three North Polk school board seats serving Alleman, Elkhart, Polk City, Sheldahl and northern Ankeny.

Bormann won with 27 percent of the vote, followed by Aicher with 26 percent and Hunter with 24 percent, and each said they will support the district's students and educators.

Polk County supervisors will vote at 1 p.m. on Nov.

5 at the county administration building (111 Court Ave) on $1M in emergency funding to purchase food after a federal SNAP freeze caused a surge at local pantries. Food pantries in central Iowa reported record numbers of households seeking help, and county officials will reassess the situation if the shutdown continues.

In 2024, hits to Iowa’s gambling help website jumped to 118,183—more than the combined totals of 2021 and 2022—as problem gambling grew with increasing sports betting since 2019.

Lawmakers are now debating plans to allow online casino games even as state funds for treatment dropped and experts warn that easier access could worsen gambling issues.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

AC/DC Tribute Concert by Black Jacket Symphony

7:30-9 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — $35-$40 — Experience an electrifying live recreation of AC/DC’s iconic album 'Back in Black' with a stunning visual show.