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

Parents of an Ashland Ridge Elementary student sue school district after their child was attacked during recess, despite warning about threats. The family seeks damages, alleging negligence and lack of response. The district denies wrongdoing and requests a jury trial, emphasizing the importance of addressing student threats promptly. 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/829fca71b2b35681

Senate unanimously passes DHS funding bill, ending partial government shutdown; Trump pays TSA workers amid airport chaos; Democrats push against immigration policies; ICE and Border Patrol remain funded; Republicans plan another funding push before midterms. 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/e56f6d49941f91aa

Firefighters Battle Brush Fire in Homeless Encampment

Two Iowans, Martin Menjivar and PryShayn Mosley, received lengthy federal prison sentences for child exploitation crimes. Menjivar, a former school photographer, abused children and recorded his actions, while Mosley enticed minors to create explicit material. Both pose severe risks to children in their communities, and federal prosecutors in Iowa are committed to protecting children from such predators. 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/e167eee8bd2bc4de

Tensions rise at Polk County Republican Lincoln Dinner as gubernatorial hopefuls Eddie Andrews and Adam Steen clash over signature challenges. Andrews accuses Steens campaign of dishonesty, while Steen acknowledges misleading statements and downplays the issue. Governor Kim Reynolds rallies Republicans against Democrat Rob Sand, warning of potential losses without strong turnout. With five Republicans in the race, the primary heats up. 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/205adaf6e2389dfe

Republican Representative Zach Nunn from Iowa introduces the HOPE with Fertility Services Act, aiming to expand insurance coverage for infertility testing and treatments like IVF. The bill, backed by Democrats like Debbie Wasserman Schultz, seeks to lower costs and increase access, particularly in employer plans. Nunn faces criticism over his stance on abortion but emphasizes his work on maternal health. The legislation targets national standards for fertility access, potentially influencing close races in the 2026 midterms. 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/8ee79a71ef3ec756

Two Des Moines residents have filed lawsuits against MidAmerican Energy, the City of Des Moines, and contractors following natural gas explosions that destroyed their homes and caused injuries. The first case involves Joanna Dungy, who suffered severe burns and is suing for missed inspections and lack of safety warnings. The second case, filed by Ajoice Gonzalez Piedra, alleges utility safety rule violations during unannounced digging. Both cases are now in court, with trials scheduled for April 2023 and April 2024, respectively. 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/8efd316f333e2294

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolds in Grimes, Iowa, as five-year-old Wesley Alvin Dahn, a kindergarten student with autism and ADHD, succumbs to hypothermia after wandering away from home. Despite his mothers precautions, Wesleys condition made him prone to elopement, leading to his untimely death. The family is now grappling with the loss, and Mabel Jilo has started a GoFundMe to help them cope financially and emotionally. 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/ca952deef733ac50

Thousands gather for No Kings Day protests, challenging Trumps policies; organizers aim for peaceful events, with over 50 protests planned in Iowa alone; past events drew millions, highlighting growing resistance against the administration. 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/0ff26f62dc30ddb4

President Trump hosts over 800 farmers at the White House, unveiling new aid efforts to combat tariffs and Iran conflict impacts. This includes EPA guidance for lower farm equipment costs and larger loan guarantees from the SBA. Soybean farmers, hit hardest, receive additional federal aid, while the administration aims to stabilize the ag sector through smarter regulations and financial support. 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/84da7043b5dcab7d

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Martasha McKenzie, 33, was found deceased in a Des Moines apartment. Her ex-boyfriend, involved in a history of domestic violence, attacked police and her father with a knife, leading to his death. Martashas father, David Ewing, is now caring for her six children through a GoFundMe page, while resources like the national domestic violence hotline offer support. 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/23f36f75d0d0d3c2

Carter Baumler, an Iowa native, received the thrilling news of making the Texas Rangers Opening Day roster during a spring training game against the Kansas City Royals. The relief pitcher, who was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2020, has a strong work ethic and attention to detail, which he attributes to his success. Baumlers family, including his parents Brad and Mary Lynn, have played a significant role in his journey, emphasizing faith, patience, and helping younger players. Despite the excitement, Baumler remained focused, striking out the next hitter and finishing the inning strongly. 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/4cff0cacd589c851

Birdland Drive Construction: Detours & Timeline

Man Charged in Toddler's Drowning After Bathtub Neglect

In a long-awaited trial, Robert Davis stands accused of second-degree murder in the 1989 disappearance of Barbara Lenz. Despite no body being found, prosecutors argue Davis was the last person seen with Lenz, a relationship marked by violence. The defense, however, questions the absence of a body and Davis involvement. The trial continues, with both sides set to present more evidence. 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/b3f93df970f78a68

Tulip Time Queen Rallies Lawmakers

Iowa National Guard and firefighters battle Nebraska wildfires, dropping water from Black Hawk helicopters and working long shifts amidst high winds and drought conditions. Despite challenges, they remain committed to containing the massive Morrill Fire and other blazes. 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/91545bcf4ff85a11

Singer-songwriter Dash Crofts, half of the seventies soft-rock duo Seals and Crofts, has passed away at eighty-seven. Known for hits like Summer Breeze and Diamond Girl, Crofts, alongside childhood friend Jim Seals, created easy-listening tunes blending pop, country, folk, and jazz. Their music, often inspired by the Baha’i faith, touched on themes of unity and love, and stirred debate with tracks like Unborn Child. After a brief split, Crofts went solo and later reunited with Seals. Crofts is survived by his wife, three children, and eight grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of gentle, peaceful music that continues to resonate with fans. 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/adbf76585816a2ce

Man Sentenced for Sexually Exploiting Minors, Sharing Child Pornography

Tragic Welfare Check Turns Deadly: Police Shoot Knife-Wielding Man, Find Womans Body in Des Moines Apartment 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/0698312a43878a81

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signs a new law to raise taxes on private health insurance providers, targeting health maintenance organizations. The temporary tax hike is expected to generate over $120 million in federal funds to close a projected $167.6 million gap in the Medicaid budget. The move, which also pulls $347 million from the Taxpayer Relief Fund, has drawn criticism from Democrats who argue it will drive up insurance premiums, while Republicans insist the insurers can handle it. The laws impact on premiums and federal matches will be closely watched in the coming months. 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/af1c60faeeb591cc

Ames, Iowa, city leaders adapt plans for a new solid waste and recycling facility due to cost increases. The project, replacing a 50-year-old facility, aims to modernize waste handling on Freel Drive. Despite a $2.5 million budget overrun, the city council has approved cost-saving changes, targeting July 1, 2023, for completion. 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/beccfdff4471fe2f

Des Moines Police Respond to Welfare Check, Shoot Suspect; Woman Found Dead in Apartment A concerned fathers call led to a welfare check at the Flats on Fifth apartments, where a man armed with a knife attacked the father before turning on police. The man was shot and killed at the scene. During the check, officers discovered a woman dead in an apartment, later identified as Martasha Jordane Paris McKenzie. The officers involved are on administrative leave, and the investigation into both deaths 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/a572658a85c987d1

Hy-Vees Kentucky Grocery Store: A Four-Year Journey and Beyond Hy-Vee, the Iowa-based grocery chain, has been planning its first Kentucky store at SouthPointe Commons in Louisville since 2021. After purchasing a 12.5-acre plot for $23 million, they aimed for a 2023 opening. However, they acquired the Strack and Van Til chain in 2022, adding 22 stores in Indiana to bolster their supply chain. Despite no set timeline, developer attorney John Baker remains optimistic about Hy-Vees eventual build in Kentucky. 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/431fef3116033028

Red Flag Warning issued for southwest to west central Iowa: Strong winds and low humidity expected Friday and Saturday, posing high fire risk. Outdoor burning not recommended. Residents advised to clear dry brush, monitor alerts, and prepare emergency kits. Stay vigilant to protect homes and land. 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/fbabaeac62385047

Des Moines Man Convicted of Child Sexual Abuse

EPA grants temporary waiver for E15 gasoline nationwide, aiming to alleviate soaring pump prices due to Iran war. While both parties push for year-round approval, concerns remain over limited infrastructure, scarce ethanol supplies, and potential impact on grocery bills. Oil industry backs the decision, sparking ongoing debates over biofuels true benefits. 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/019bc4e5124c1902

Pryce Sandfort, a junior guard from Waukee, Iowa, is making history this March Madness season. After transferring from Iowa to Nebraska, hes leading the Huskers to their first Sweet Sixteen appearance in the NCAA mens basketball tournament. Sandfort, who grew up cheering for Nebraska, is averaging nearly eighteen points per game and hitting forty-one percent of his three-pointers. His brother Payton, now in the NBA with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and two other Waukee Northwest alums are also in the tournament. Sandforts teams face off on Thursday at six thirty p.m. in Houston, with the winner advancing to the Elite Eight. 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/43a91a73db31b384

Iowa Man Charged with Attempted Murder, Kidnapping

Twenty-five-year-old Sie Lee Jones is charged with first-degree murder after a violent assault on sixty-one-year-old Paul Montis Senior. The incident occurred in Des Moines, with Montis found unconscious in an apartment building hallway. Jones resisted arrest, injuring two officers, and is now held in Polk County Jail. The investigation into the tragedy 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/4266a8beabb12d45

Jacob Wright, from Grand River, Iowa, faces sentencing this Thursday for a fatal hit-and-run, admitting to leaving the scene of a crash that killed sixteen-year-old Elmer Borntrager. The incident, which occurred on a rural road in Clarke County, has deeply impacted the close-knit Amish community. Wright was driving with a suspended license, adding to the severity of the case. As the court prepares to sentence, questions about road safety in rural areas remain. 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/c3402021c8be8bb1

25-year-old Sie Lee Jones Junior faces first-degree murder charges after a 61-year-old man, Paul Montis Senior, died from injuries sustained in an assault last month. The attack occurred at Harrington Apartments in Des Moines, with Jones identified as the suspect. After resisting arrest and injuring two officers, Jones was charged with attempted murder and assaulting police. Following Montis death, prosecutors upgraded the charges to murder. Jones is currently in Polk County Jail on a $50,000 cash bond, with a preliminary hearing and arraignment scheduled for early April. The case remains under investigation. 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/2f010ad1b6a145f2

Air Quality Alert: Iowa Faces Unhealthy Haze from Out-of-State Fires Iowa experienced poor air quality on March 26th due to smoke from agricultural burning in Kansas and wildfires in Oklahoma and North Carolina. Des Moines, Waterloo, and Iowa City had moderate to unhealthy air quality, posing risks to sensitive individuals. The situation is expected to improve with stronger winds and incoming rain, bringing partly sunny skies and showers. 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/cc242df92af74a84

Tragic Double Incident in Des Moines: Police Shoot Boyfriend After He Charges with Knife, Leaving Woman Dead; Community Left Shaken 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/eff30cba4070abd9

Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson from Iowa is reintroducing a bill to make birth control pills available over the counter for adults, prioritizing safe, FDA-approved oral contraceptives. Shes also launching the Access to LARCs Act, focusing on family planning and womens health support, despite partisan divides. 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/ed3229fefa120623

Zach Lahn, Republican gubernatorial candidate, unveils his vision at Westside Conservative Club, emphasizing school choice, public education reform, and support for local farmers. He advocates for innovation zones and criticizes over-medication of boys. Lahn aims to unite Republicans and Democrats to defeat opponent Rob Sand and bring real change to Iowa families. 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/773cf7856d90ea72

Iowas Political Landscape Heats Up: Elections, Cold Case Break, and Community Spirit - Three candidates face ballot exclusion, sparking controversy; Senator Joni Ernsts seat faces a crowded challenge; Gubernatorial hopeful Eddie Andrews secures ballot spot; Tensions rise over H-one-B visa limit at state universities; Governor Kim Reynolds promises property tax relief; West Des Moines police arrest suspect in twenty eleven murder case; Ankeny police investigate crash near Saint Lukes school; Des Moines celebrates Saint Patricks Day parade with music and green. 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/49db7c42ba7275c5

Des Moines metro area thrives as fastest-growing Midwest city, adding nearly 47,000 residents since 2020, with suburbs like Ankeny and West Des Moines leading the way. Nationwide, growth slows, but Des Moines stands out with a 15% increase over the past decade, while many other Iowa counties are shrinking. 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/c036e20c25bda4ce

Ankeny parents sue school district for negligence after sons assault; lawsuit alleges school staff failed to protect their child from bullies, leading to serious injuries and emotional harm. 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/061f5dbf444adfef

Dallas County, Iowa, has experienced remarkable growth, adding nearly eighteen thousand residents between 2020 and 2025, with a total population of one hundred eighteen thousand four hundred fifty-seven. This growth has made it the fastest-growing county in the Midwest and the fifty-third fastest nationwide. The countys rapid expansion has led to significant changes, including a jump in the Waukee school districts ranking and an expansion of the board of supervisors. Despite this growth, only thirty-four out of ninety-nine Iowa counties saw any increase, and only three other Midwest counties made the top one hundred nationally. This surge in population presents challenges for local services to keep up with the demand. 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/43221a60128b5257

Iowas Governor Kim Reynolds and top Republican lawmakers are racing to finalize a property tax cut deal before the legislative session ends. The main hurdles involve differences between House and Senate plans, such as a two percent revenue growth cap versus a fifty percent exemption on primary residences. Recent adjustments, like a twenty-year cap on tax increment financing districts, are helping bridge the gaps. Negotiations also include ideas like indexing the gas tax for road funding. Despite no signs of deadlock, leaders are optimistic about delivering tax savings for Iowans soon. 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/febf5da265cc74e8

Jessi Pierce, a renowned reporter for the Minnesota Wild and NHL, began her journey in hockey media at Iowa State University. Balancing studies with a passion for the sport, she hosted and produced a show highlighting the schools hockey coach. Her reliability and fun-loving nature made her a joy to work with. After nearly sixteen years, her passing has left friends and colleagues, like Josh Larson, in shock. The Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication mourns her loss, acknowledging her significant contributions to campus athletics coverage and the student newspaper. Her story underscores the impact of early dedication and passion. 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/a23f21ef8cf10ae8

Oskaloosa Church Break-ins: Police Seek Help

Worker Rescued from Roof Accident at Kent Nutrition Plant

Huub Lelieveld, a Dutch food scientist, is the 2026 World Food Prize laureate for revolutionizing food safety research and transforming it into practical solutions. His work has prevented millions of foodborne illnesses, reduced trade barriers, enhanced humanitarian aid, decreased food waste, and bolstered global food security. Lelievelds innovations in food processing have allowed companies to eliminate chemical preservatives, salt, and sugar, making products healthier. He founded the Global Harmonization Initiative, which unites over 1,600 volunteers from 113 countries to promote safe, nutritious food worldwide. Lelievelds impact will be celebrated with a $500,000 prize at the award ceremony in Des Moines on October 22, 2026. 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/a3ef85aebec25b72

House Fire Extinguished in Iowa, No Injuries Reported

Car Crash at School Injures 15 Students, Community Rallies

Man from Winterset, Iowa, sues city police and officer for false arrest, alleging a pattern of misconduct. Officer Logan Camp arrested Scott Mineart on private property for driving on a revoked license, but prosecutors dismissed the charge. Mineart claims this violates his rights, pointing to a similar case two years ago. The city denies fault, and both sides head 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/c94b7b7de5aad574

Woodward Fire Chief Clears Name, Police Chief Resigns

Forty-year-old Jesus Moreno Mendez, from Des Moines, Iowa, convicted of second-degree sexual abuse against a child, faces a mandatory twenty-five-year prison term and lifetime sex offender registration. The incident occurred last August when Mendez assaulted a twelve-year-old girl at his home. The girls testimony, supported by DNA evidence, led to a swift conviction. Sentencing is set for May twenty-second, bringing closure for the victim and her family. 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/3d8844ff20cd6e07