Good morning, Des Moines.

Denny Blackford opened Triple B’s in Johnston in September to spend more time with his son (who has Down syndrome) and serve families with special needs.

The restaurant aims to become a welcoming spot in the community.

Register photographer Zach Boyden-Holmes has compiled his favorite photos of 2025, featuring local events from RAGBRAI and the Saint Patrick's Day Parade to goat yoga in Armstrong.

His collection highlights unique local moments from across the region.

For decades, carolers have filled Des Moines with festive music, performing at places like the Polk County Jail (since 1958) and local care centers; the tradition continues to spread holiday cheer today.

GasBuddy reported that three stations in Ankeny and one in Grimes sold regular unleaded gas for under $2 per gallon on Monday.

A survey of 234 local stations showed the average price was $2.12 — a drop of nearly 70 cents from last month.

Today marks the first full winter day; experts from Iowa State University Extension advise homeowners to gently brush snow from young trees using upward motions to avoid stressing branches.

Property owners should not remove ice but let the sun melt it naturally (local advice).

Des Moines Water Works employees have discovered invasive zebra mussels in the river near Birdland Marina, posing a risk to local species and clogging water systems.

Officials urge boaters to clean (drain and dry) equipment to prevent further spread.

Local agencies report rising LIHEAP utility assistance applications as cold weather and higher energy costs push more households to seek help; over 5,700 low-income applications have been submitted so far and assistance remains open until April 30.

Sen. Chuck Grassley announced his nomination of 31 Iowa high school seniors for US military academies (for the 2026-27 academic year) on Dec.

22. The nominees, drawn from around the state, now await selection by the academies.

Iowa will join the Summer EBT program in 2026 after two years away, giving low-income families $40 per child each summer month for groceries — a change that follows new SNAP rules effective Jan.

1 and was approved by the USDA.

The Sioux City-based Iowa Poison Control Center warns that mistletoe — along with holly berries — can cause rapid gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, cramping and diarrhea if ingested by children or pets.

They advise calling 1-800-222-1222 for immediate guidance.

Dr. Rachel Preisser at GRACE Imaging and Medical Spa in Clive says rising insurance costs and a shortage of physicians have strained care, with premiums increasing by over 24% since 2019 and reduced reimbursements prompting some clinics to drop plans so patients travel farther for treatment.

A new ISU study shows that preparing exercise gear ahead of time can help form and sustain exercise habits.

The research indicates that simple actions like packing a gym bag (a simple habit) may help participants stick to their workouts for an entire year.

Prairie Meadows Race Track and Casino will be open on Christmas Day to offer central Iowans a festive entertainment option — families can also catch a new release at a Cinemark in Altoona or enjoy a meal at Cheng’s Garden on the east side.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Baby Rhyme Time

9:30-10:00 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Engage in a delightful mix of rhymes, songs, and stories designed for caregivers and babies up to 18 months.

Dome for the Holidays

5-9 p.m. — Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden — Adults $17, Children (2-12) $11 — Experience a dazzling display of lights and joyful festivities in a tropical oasis.

NAMI Family Support Group

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free of cost — Connect with others in a supportive environment for loved ones of individuals with mental health conditions.

Disenchanted! The Hit Musical Comedy

7-9 p.m. — Temple Theater — Tickets required — A hilarious reimagining of classic princess tales with Snow White and her disenchanted friends setting the record straight.

Jeff Dunham Live

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Casey's Center — Tickets available — Experience a night of laughter with ventriloquist Jeff Dunham and his puppet pals in a comedic performance infused with innovative material and AI humor.

K-pop Monthly Meet-up

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Celebrate K-pop culture with trading, activities, and snacks alongside fellow fans.

New Year's Eve Pops

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Des Moines Civic Center — $40 - $90 — Experience a dazzling performance by Cirque artists paired with beloved orchestral masterpieces for an unforgettable New Year's celebration.

Sweez Live Performance with Dangus

9 PM – 3 AM — Locals Bar & Stage — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with Sweez and special guest Dangus.

19th Annual Land Investment Expo

8 AM — Iowa Events Center — Registration details available online — Explore land investment opportunities with industry experts at this must-attend event.

Tie Blanket Workshop

10 AM – 4 PM — Mainframe Studios — Ticket required — Create your own cozy fleece blankets and pillows in a fun, community-driven atmosphere.