Des Moines News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

In Iowa, families like the Walkers are fighting to keep their loved ones with severe disabilities at home amid Medicaid cuts. The Walkers son, Sam, requires constant supervision due to his autism, deafness, blindness, and nonverbal nature. Iowa Total Care, the company managing their Medicaid program, has slashed Sams in-home care funding, claiming it doesnt cover supervision. Parents fear moving Sam to a residential facility, which could cost the state double. An administrative judge ruled in the Walkers favor, but theyre still waiting for a decision. Budget strains and federal limits leave families in limbo, pushing for community care over institutions. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5a8257403c4e2ec3

Iowa Senate Ethics Committee Deadlocks on Complaint Against Senator Webster: A Case of Political Speech in the Digital Age The Iowa Senate Ethics Committee failed to reach a consensus on a complaint against Republican Senator Scott Webster, resulting in no action taken against him. The committee, evenly split between Democrats and Republicans, couldnt agree on key votes regarding Websters posting of a constituents email on Facebook, which included her contact details. The email, sent by Jennifer Olson, a Davenport attorney, criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and labeled the Iowa Republican Party as a white supremacist fascist group. Olson filed a complaint, alleging Webster shared the email to harass her and suppress her free speech, leading to a safety threat. Webster argued he was merely showcasing the types of messages officials receive and that Olsons contact information was already public. The committee voted to dismiss the complaint, with Republicans in favor and Democrats against. A Democrat motion to reprimand Webster and urge him to exercise caution online also ended in a tie. Webster described the situation as a partisan attack and celebrated the no-action outcome as a victory for First Amendment rights. The case concludes with both sides continuing to debate the boundaries of political speech in the digital age. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5e319d91f8e0d7f5

Passover 2026: A Blend of Faith and Tradition - This year, Passover, marking the Jews escape from slavery in ancient Egypt, coincides with Christian Holy Week. The eight-day holiday begins on April 1st and ends on April 9th. Families celebrate with a Seder meal, using symbolic foods and reading from the Haggadah. Temple Bnai Jeshurun in Des Moines hosts a Seder on April 1st, while Tifereth Israel has a post-Passover pasta event on April 10th. Say Chag Sameach or Happy Passover to join the festivities. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/36de1589e545d020

UnityPoint Health: A Beat Drop for Life

Illinois Man Pleads Guilty to Cyberstalking

Iowa Governor Reynolds honored over a dozen exceptional educators at the 2026 Outstanding Iowa Educators Recognition Luncheon, including six STEM Teachers of the Year and nine Regional Teachers of the Year. Stephanie Pritts, named the 2026 Iowa Teacher of the Year, will begin her service term in July. These educators, recognized for their outstanding work and impact on students, embody Iowas commitment to world-class learning. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f575c3028218e296

President Trumps executive order targeting birthright citizenship heads to the Supreme Court, challenging a century of precedent. The order could potentially leave millions undocumented, sparking fears of increased citizenship checks and deportations. The court hears arguments tomorrow, with a ruling set to reshape American citizenship. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5ea8fe34541bdbab

NeeDoh squish toys create a frenzy at Bings toy store in Iowa, with lines stretching down the block. This viral sensation, reminiscent of Beanie Babies or Tickle Me Elmo, has tripled normal yearly sales since January. Small businesses like Bings are cashing in, with demand driving parents, grandparents, and even tweens to hunt for the latest versions. Supply chains are strained, but NeeDohs growth continues, appealing to kids, collectors, and kidults across generations. This boom is a lifeline for spots like Bings, turning everyday operations into events with no end in sight. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d221cbfca0e6b2e3

MercyOne is hosting a free mammogram event this Saturday, April 11th, in Des Moines, Ankeny, and Clive. The event aims to provide early breast cancer detection to low-income and under-insured women aged 40 and above, without any history of breast issues. Appointments are available from 7:30 AM to noon, with free muffins and coffee. Book online for a hassle-free experience. This initiative could potentially save lives, so share the news if it applies to someone you know. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7e90b862dcdd8e60

FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirms Irans World Cup matches in the U.S. will proceed as planned, despite initial uncertainty due to the Iran war and safety concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump. Iran will face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Los Angeles and Seattle. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7f276a6f393e1fbb

Erin Schneider, a dean at Des Moines Area Community College, has been appointed to the Ankeny School Boards open at-large seat. She replaces Roxanne Petersen, who resigned after winning the seat in November. Schneiders background in education and her service mindset made her a strong fit for the role. She was chosen from nineteen candidates and was sworn in at last nights meeting. Her term will last until the next regular election in 2027. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c3ad0e30e113599d

A wrongful death lawsuit targets UnityPoint Healths Iowa Methodist Medical Center, alleging negligence in Stephen Likers care. Liker, an Ankeny resident, suffered a massive stroke in January 2024, but staff failed to conduct a crucial neuro check for nearly seven hours. The hospital is accused of violating the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), with a history of similar violations. The lawsuit charges malpractice, corporate negligence, and wrongful death, as the hospital denies the claims and moves the case to federal court. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c9f9746b1d107042

Zearing Pharmacy Closure: Rural Iowa's Health Care Gap

Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa, introduces animal-themed prank call lines for April Fools, featuring custom messages from zoo residents like Wally Bee, Don Kee, Cass OWary, and Rory Lyon. These lines protect the zoo from real prank calls while providing entertainment. Call Wally Bee at 515-974-2670, Don Kee at 515-974-2671, Cass OWary at 515-974-2672, and Rory Lyon at 515-974-2673. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4e7f3b20a2be3a0e

Des Moines Revamps Fleur Drive Bridge for Pedestrians

A Council Bluffs man, Robert Davis, was convicted for the murder of his girlfriend, Barbara Lenz, who vanished in 1989. After decades, Iowas cold case unit revived the case, leading to Daviss conviction for second-degree murder. Lenz had been in an abusive relationship with Davis, and witnesses reported seeing them fighting before her disappearance. Davis has a history of violence, including a prior kidnapping and sexual abuse conviction. He now faces up to fifty years in prison, with a mandatory thirty-five years before parole. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/75ed8338edda646a

President Trump signs executive order for federal oversight on mail-in ballots, despite using the method himself. The order tasks the USPS with verifying voter eligibility, setting the stage for potential legal battles. Meanwhile, the SAVE America Act, which requires proof of citizenship to vote, faces opposition, potentially reshaping election security measures. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4572ef0889e318f4

Missing Girl: Ayreauanna, 11, Last Seen in Des Moines

Missing Girl in Des Moines: Urgent Search for Ayreauanna

Kyle Gamble, a DePauw and Northwestern graduate, has been appointed as the new president and chief operating officer of Hubbell Realty Company, an Iowa-based firm with a rich history in real estate, development, homebuilding, and construction. Gamble, who joined Hubbell in 1994 and has since risen through the ranks, will take over from Rick Tollakson, who has led the company for four decades. Gambles new role will involve overseeing strategic moves across all eighteen corporate divisions, as Hubbell continues to expand its team and presence in Iowa, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/28ae7d0ce21c9392

Marburger Leadership Institute: Honoring a Hero

After 37 years, justice served: Robert Davis convicted for Barbara Lenzs disappearance Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/0ae1b2c6919c8b4a

Des Moines River Yields Third Body: Community Seeks Answers as Search for Cause Continues Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4489f0b8065d1a79

Iowa and Iowa State womens basketball teams face significant roster shakeups as stars like Jada Williams and Addy Brown depart, along with several other key players. Both teams prepare for recruiting battles to rebuild around their cores, promising intense competition as these skilled athletes seek bigger roles and championships elsewhere. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/42c78852604079b4

The Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of free speech rights for therapists, striking down Colorados ban on conversion therapy for LGBTQ youth. Meanwhile, Iowa is pushing a bill that allows parents and foster parents to raise kids in line with their birth sex without it being considered child abuse. This bill, House File twenty-five fifty-seven, has passed the Iowa House and is now in the Senate. LGBTQ advocates argue that this bill is a backdoor for conversion therapy, while supporters claim it protects parents beliefs from abuse probes. The bill differs from Colorados provider restrictions, as it does not limit what therapists can say. Opponents warn that it could lead to unregulated, harmful practices on kids. The Supreme Courts ruling and Iowas bill have sparked heated debate on kids rights and parental say. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1277d4096aef9cae

The Food Bank of Iowa received a massive donation of over 280,000 fresh eggs from Versova, a significant contribution to the Great American Egg Drive. This generous gift, equivalent to 23,400 dozen eggs, arrived just in time for Easter and Passover celebrations, providing much-needed protein to over 385,000 Iowans facing food insecurity. The eggs, packed with six grams of complete protein each, are now being distributed to local pantries and programs, offering nutritious meals without straining budgets. This donation underscores the power of local generosity in combating hunger and strengthening communities. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6867a5514197faf0

Intoxalock Hit with Class-Action Lawsuit After Cyberattack

The Des Moines Arts Festivals Student Art Exhibition is now accepting entries from central Iowa schools. Up to four pieces per school, created during the 2025-2026 school year, will be showcased at the festival and later at GreenState Credit Union locations. The event aims to foster young talent and community pride. Deadline for submission is April 26th. Dont miss out on this opportunity to support Iowas young artists. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/db0581604d3aa932

Norwalks Voters Consider $65M School Bond: New Elementary, Infrastructure Upgrades, No Tax Hike Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b98ac11b04601ce5

Greenfield Stabbing: Guilty Verdict in Deadly Case

Staind and BigXthaPlug join Iowa State Fairs 2026 Grandstand lineup, adding rock and hip-hop flavors. Tickets for Staind (54-89) and BigXthaPlug (29-69) go on sale April 3rd. One slot still open for August 21st. Buy directly from iowastatefair.org or etix.com to avoid fakes. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/af2fe760c894197f

Rescuers' Clever Hack: Baby Chick's Second Chance

Iowas March ends with a wet bang: severe storms, hail, and more rain on the horizon. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b95bcdeee93b97bc

Aprils Pink Moon peaks on the 1st, but clouds may spoil the view in Des Moines. Dont miss the Lyrids meteor shower from the 14th to 30th, peaking on the 21st and 22nd. The new moon on the 17th and Eta Aquariids from the 19th to late May offer more celestial events. Keep an eye out for clear nights! Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7979e15c762ab5d4

Iowas water monitoring network faces collapse due to funding cuts, threatening early detection of pollutants like nitrates from farm runoff. Farmers and environmental groups urge state leaders to restore funding, as studies link nitrate issues to rising cancer rates. Lawmakers have a narrow window to act and safeguard the states water watch. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/761f067d45c82b60

Stolen Car Crashes, Utility Pole Down

Shape Des Moines' Future: Fire Station Four Repurposing

Man Charged with Road Rage Assault, Pregnant Woman Involved

Strong thunderstorms swept through Iowa, with Ankeny and Dallas Center receiving the highest rainfall at 1.56 and 1.52 inches respectively. No major flooding reported, but uneven rainfall caused localized chaos. Share your rain totals at KCCI to help complete the map. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/56660a6d7438c5c5

Iowa State Fair unveils two electrifying Grandstand additions: Staind, with Hoobastank, on August 17th, and BigXthaPlug on August 22nd. Staind, known for Mudshovel, and Hoobastank, famous for The Reason, bring their hard-hitting rock. BigXthaPlug, a breakout rapper, transforms from solitary confinement to Nashvilles hottest new voice. Tickets for Staind, Hoobastank, and BigXthaPlug go on sale April 3rd, with prices ranging from $30 to $90. Dont miss out on this stacked fair schedule! Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c01d7142affdc974

Staind and Hoobastank to rock Iowa State Fair, followed by BigXthaPlugs trap sound, creating a diverse lineup for the 2026 event. Tickets on sale April 3rd, promising a summer of music, food, and fun. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/52ffc2e55ea30d6d

The Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, damaged by a 2024 hailstorm, is undergoing a $7 million renovation to reduce its size and improve sustainability. Despite budget constraints and staffing reductions, the refuge remains operational and is planning an outdoor pavilion, native plant garden, and grassy seating areas to enhance visitor engagement. The refuge aims to reopen in fall 2028, focusing on core conservation efforts. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/97b447c4721ac5f9

Iowa immigration lawyers face a surge in cases due to new Trump administration rules targeting refugees, including a memo from Homeland Security allowing detention without bond for those without a green card after one year, and a November order freezing final approvals on green card applications. This has trapped refugees in a difficult situation, with groups like Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice calling for urgent legal aid to navigate the process and prevent mass detentions. Polk County is asked for $300,000 to hire more attorneys and train volunteers, as the demand for legal assistance continues to grow with an influx of refugees from places like Afghanistan and Ukraine. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9bd31629d9fa5538

Man Sentenced for Fatal Horse & Buggy Crash

HeatWaves Robotics Team from Waukee, Iowa, secures spot at FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston. Known for their hands-on approach, they design, weld, code, and refine their robot. Local pride surges as they prepare for global competition, showcasing real skills like teamwork and problem-solving. Intense practice sessions ahead as they aim to outperform hundreds of international teams. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/09171f0f43fd5fe1

Des Moines Lit Up by Intense Lightning Show

Intoxalock Faces Class-Action Lawsuit After Cyberattack: Thousands Stranded, Personal Data Compromised Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9c6f9456014ae8e5

Waukee Elementary Schools in Iowa transform snack vending machines into book dispensers, fostering a love for reading among students. With grants from the Waukee Community Schools Foundation, kindergarten through fifth-grade students can now select free books tailored to their grade level. The initiative, currently piloting with fifth graders, aims to expand school-wide next year, with every student receiving a free book on their birthday or half birthday. This innovative approach to promoting reading is gaining attention in education circles. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/33dd26177303d0a2

The Madrid Register, a beloved weekly newspaper in Madrid, Iowa, faces closure, threatening to erase vital local history. Despite a dedicated readership and a close-knit community, the papers future hangs in the balance as the Williams family, who owned it for decades, and locals, like Mary Swalla Holmes, hope for a last-minute savior to preserve this irreplaceable piece of Iowas past. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/3b69b9e3220a705a

NuCara Pharmacy, a parent company facing a lawsuit for misusing funds, is closing four Iowa locations, impacting small towns and community health access. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c24dbde0803c995b