Good morning, Des Moines.

Johnston Partnership launched a campaign called Keep Johnston Rolling to raise $50K to buy a new truck that delivers food and supplies to local families—this truck is needed as the old one fails often—and donations through December 24 may help reach the goal.

At 6:40 a.m., the Iowa Department of Transportation reported a crash on I-80 near Dexter with about half a dozen emergency vehicles blocking the eastbound right shoulder—another crash blocked the eastbound lane near Casey.

Iowa law does not ban hitchhiking if a person is off the road when asking for a ride, though pedestrians cannot stand on the roadway to ask for help (cities like Ames and Altoona enforce similar rules).

Those who break this law will face a $35 fine (the penalty applies only when ride requests occur on the roadway).

A report shows Iowa’s lung cancer rate is 60.3 per 100,000 residents—above the nationwide rate of 52.8—and its overall new cancer rate is the second highest at 491.8.

The American Lung Association said 5‑year lung cancer survival is 27.1%—lower than the national 29.7%—and urged lawmakers to raise cigarette taxes.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said Iowa’s Healthy Hometowns plan seeks up to $1B in federal funds to help rural hospitals and clinics modernize with up to $200M a year if approved—experts warn the funds will not fill the gap left by Medicaid cuts.

The plan uses a hub-and-spoke model to bring telehealth and new equipment to rural areas.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.

Iowa Files: Over the Hill to the Poor Farm

3-4 p.m. — West Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Explore the history of poor farms through stories from a long-time administrator.

Holiday Portraits at Exile Brewing

5-7 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free Holiday Portraits — Capture festive moments with family and friends at this community event.