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Reliably red Ohio suddenly a red-hot mess for GOP

The party's dealing with domestic abuse allegations, sluggish campaigns and a working-class rebellion.

Politics & Policy

Ohio, the red state that helped fuel President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="56be20f6-dffb-4580-8fa5-1e5e2c16fc5e" data-vars-headline="Reliably red Ohio suddenly a red-hot mess for GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a>&#x27;s political comeback — and launched his presumed heir, JD <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Vance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/02/vance-wsj-trump-rubio-2028" data-vars-content-id="56be20f6-dffb-4580-8fa5-1e5e2c16fc5e" data-vars-headline="Reliably red Ohio suddenly a red-hot mess for GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/02/vance-wsj-trump-rubio-2028" target="_self">Vance</a>, onto the national stage — has become one of the GOP&#x27;s biggest headaches for the midterms.Why it matters: Republicans are struggling up and down the ballot in the Rust Belt state, which transformed from a perennial battleground into a Republican stronghold under Trump.

Wall Street finds new edge behind Trump's presidential paywall

Trump Media is monetizing the presidency's unrivaled power to move markets

For years, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Truth Social" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/14/trump-truth-social-2024-revenue" data-vars-content-id="cef33be2-e25d-4bb7-aa62-70b74bb7896d" data-vars-headline="Wall Street finds new edge behind Trump&#x27;s presidential paywall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/14/trump-truth-social-2024-revenue" target="_self">Truth Social</a> was President Trump&#x27;s money-losing megaphone.<ul><li>Now his company is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="charging Wall Street" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/16/truth-social-license-data-wall-street" data-vars-content-id="cef33be2-e25d-4bb7-aa62-70b74bb7896d" data-vars-headline="Wall Street finds new edge behind Trump&#x27;s presidential paywall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/16/truth-social-license-data-wall-street" target="_self">charging Wall Street</a> up to $1.2 million a year for a split-second edge on posts that can — and frequently do — jolt global markets.</li></ul>Why it matters: Trump has transformed his second term into the most lucrative venture of his entire career, raking in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more than $2.2 billion in 2025" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/03/trump-financial-disclosure-democrats-subpoena" data-vars-content-id="cef33be2-e25d-4bb7-aa62-70b74bb7896d" data-vars-headline="Wall Street finds new edge behind Trump&#x27;s presidential paywall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/03/trump-financial-disclosure-democrats-subpoena" target="_self">more than $2.2 billion in 2025</a> from his <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="family crypto empire" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/trump-presidential-gold-rush" data-vars-content-id="cef33be2-e25d-4bb7-aa62-70b74bb7896d" data-vars-headline="Wall Street finds new edge behind Trump&#x27;s presidential paywall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/trump-presidential-gold-rush" target="_self">family crypto empire</a>, legal settlements and various licensing deals.

Poll: Talarico has slim lead over Paxton in Texas Senate race

The Republican establishment isn't panicking — not yet, anyway.

Three consecutive polls have now shown Democrat James Talarico narrowly ahead of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in that state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="crucial race" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/28/talarico-paxton-senate-race-texas" data-vars-content-id="24f1f73c-4fd7-482c-841a-3aa75bdd7e65" data-vars-headline="Poll: Talarico has slim lead over Paxton in Texas Senate race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/05/28/talarico-paxton-senate-race-texas" target="_self">crucial race</a> for the U.S. Senate. The latest, released Tuesday morning, has Talarico up 47%-45%.Why it matters: That&#x27;s within the survey&#x27;s margin of error, and the Republican establishment isn&#x27;t panicking — not yet, anyway.

Exclusive: College AI use spikes

The share of American University business students regularly using AI has increased from 6.2% to 29% over the past three years.

Technology

The share of business students regularly using AI has increased from 6.2% to 29% over the past three years, according to research from American University&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kogod School of Business" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/03/generative-ai-business-school-students" data-vars-content-id="21a6e187-f25e-421d-9907-3f502c391678" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: College AI use spikes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/03/generative-ai-business-school-students" target="_self">Kogod School of Business</a>, shared first with Axios.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="chorus of AI boos" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/college-graduates-ai-commencement-speech" data-vars-content-id="21a6e187-f25e-421d-9907-3f502c391678" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: College AI use spikes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/19/college-graduates-ai-commencement-speech" target="_self">chorus of AI boos</a> at college graduations last spring doesn&#x27;t tell the whole story: Students increasingly see AI as a critical job skill but want more guidance on using it responsibly.

Scoop: Trump tells Max Miller his candidacy is in trouble

The president's comments to Miller were different than what he has said publicly.

President Trump phoned Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Max Miller" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/03/max-miller-expel-congress-democrats-allegations" data-vars-content-id="045c7e24-3b47-4fd9-b75c-6aabb85682cb" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Trump tells Max Miller his candidacy is in trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/03/max-miller-expel-congress-democrats-allegations" target="_self">Max Miller</a> Monday and expressed doubts about the Ohio Republican&#x27;s candidacy amid reports he assaulted his ex-wife and their child, three sources familiar with the call said.<ul><li>On the call, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="president" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="045c7e24-3b47-4fd9-b75c-6aabb85682cb" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Trump tells Max Miller his candidacy is in trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">president</a> told Miller that &quot;things aren&#x27;t looking good&quot; and repeatedly said his reelection would be tough, the three sources said.</li><li>Miller, who <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="denies hurting his wife" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/02/max-miller-moreno-abuse-allegations" data-vars-content-id="045c7e24-3b47-4fd9-b75c-6aabb85682cb" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Trump tells Max Miller his candidacy is in trouble" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/02/max-miller-moreno-abuse-allegations" target="_self">denies hurting his wife</a> and child, told the president he is staying in the race, one of the sources said.</li></ul>

Hyper Energy Bar appeals Des Moines' denial Monday

The council will decide whether the drive-thru can move forward downtown.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="An energy drink and coffee bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/12/hyper-energy-bar-des-moines-city-council-downtown" data-vars-content-id="7ea1cc74-5169-4436-bf4c-73a9b304cb95" data-vars-headline="Hyper Energy Bar appeals Des Moines&#x27; denial Monday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/12/hyper-energy-bar-des-moines-city-council-downtown" target="_self">An energy drink and coffee bar</a> will get a second chance Monday after the city&#x27;s Plan and Zoning Commission rejected its proposed downtown drive-thru.Why it matters: The decision will test how far Des Moines is willing to relax its walkable, urban development standards to activate a difficult downtown site.

Des Moines camping ban forces unhoused Iowans to leave resources behind

Unhoused Iowans are leaving behind possessions and medications as they're forced to leave their encampments.

Des Moines&#x27; homeless encampment removals are pushing unhoused residents from site to site more often, even though the city says its 2024 camping ban hasn&#x27;t changed enforcement, according to reporting from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Midwest Newsroom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/ipr-news/2026-07-29/iowa-unhoused-camping-bans-removal" data-vars-content-id="8996fc14-cfb7-45e0-9c54-ab532be19ac4" data-vars-headline="Des Moines camping ban forces unhoused Iowans to leave resources behind" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/ipr-news/2026-07-29/iowa-unhoused-camping-bans-removal" target="_blank">Midwest Newsroom</a>.Why it matters: Unhoused people camping along the Des Moines River told Midwest Newsroom they&#x27;re facing more frequent pressure to relocate and move farther away from resources, sometimes losing medication, IDs and belongings in the process.

Mama Africa opening in downtown Des Moines

A farmers market favorite gets a permanent weekday home.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mama Africa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555614250332" data-vars-content-id="f807623a-3f65-41ab-a2b5-6f99239db9fd" data-vars-headline="Mama Africa opening in downtown Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555614250332" target="_blank">Mama Africa</a> is opening its first permanent restaurant.Why it matters: It will turn the popular caterer and regular Downtown Farmers&#x27; Market vendor into a lasting downtown destination for West African food.

Des Moines police seek 80 more officers amid budget crisis

New studies say patrol officers are overwhelmed by calls.

Des Moines police say they need 80 more officers to keep calls from piling up.Why it matters: A police shortage is straining emergency response, but fixing it would require millions of dollars <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the cash-strapped city" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/07/01/des-moines-public-feedback-budget-gap-library-cuts" data-vars-content-id="884f9385-60c1-4156-b956-21a50bbdce86" data-vars-headline="Des Moines police seek 80 more officers amid budget crisis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/07/01/des-moines-public-feedback-budget-gap-library-cuts" target="_self">the cash-strapped city</a> does not have.

Urbandale considers new $60 million police department

City staff say the existing building is outdated for the growing community.

Politics

Urbandale is considering opening a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$60 million police department" data-vars-click-url="https://events.urbandale.org/new-police-building/" data-vars-content-id="85f62dd4-b772-4f94-ac96-d3df498a5993" data-vars-headline="Urbandale considers new $60 million police department" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://events.urbandale.org/new-police-building/" target="_blank">$60 million police department</a> at the corner of 100th Street and Douglas Avenue, a former blighted industrial site.Why it matters: City officials say the police department has outgrown its current facility off 86th Street, which was constructed in 1982 when the city had 18,000 residents. <ul><li>Now, the suburb&#x27;s home to 50,000.</li></ul>

Plug-in solar gets Iowa push

Without regulatory changes, utilities could require customers to unplug them.

Business

A Des Moines lawmaker is pushing to allow Iowans to use plug-in solar kits — devices that connect to standard home outlets and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="offset electricity use" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/01/07/urbandale-solar-panel-saves-money" data-vars-content-id="28bc1f13-4624-4102-acd4-8b5ea4c76f44" data-vars-headline="Plug-in solar gets Iowa push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/01/07/urbandale-solar-panel-saves-money" target="_self">offset electricity use</a>.Why it matters: The systems could offer a cheaper, more practical solar option, Rep. Sean Bagniewski (D-Des Moines) tells Axios.

Des Moines to buy first home under new housing strategy

It marks the start of a massive, long-term effort to demolish or improve entire city blocks.

Des Moines City Council unanimously approved the first property acquisition tied to its new citywide housing strategy this week.Why it matters: The home at 1656 Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway marks the start of a massive, long-term effort to demolish or improve entire city blocks, home to thousands of neglected houses that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="have been called &quot;an albatross.&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/02/13/redeveloping-blocks-house-eminent-domain-czb" data-vars-content-id="0740e30c-f721-4ec7-9d2a-613d791bd07e" data-vars-headline="Des Moines to buy first home under new housing strategy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/02/13/redeveloping-blocks-house-eminent-domain-czb" target="_self">have been called &quot;an albatross.&quot;</a>

Des Moines' historic Butler House is for sale

Much of the furniture is included in the sale.

Real Estate

The Butler House on Grand Avenue went on the market this week.Why it matters: It isn&#x27;t just a stately Tudor; it&#x27;s woven into Des Moines&#x27; architectural legacy — including its connection to the Butler Mansion on Fleur Drive, which recently became home to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/01/16/desmoines-butler-mansion-museum-italian-cultural" data-vars-content-id="9076b9b4-3e0b-41e7-9553-d67bc343aa69" data-vars-headline="Des Moines&#x27; historic Butler House is for sale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/01/16/desmoines-butler-mansion-museum-italian-cultural" target="_self">Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa</a>.

This Ankeny mom is opening a giant play cafe for kids, and coffee for adults

Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe will cater to all kids and parents alike.

An Ankeny mom is opening an inclusive, kid-friendly cafe where their parents can connect (or disconnect) without helicoptering their kids.Why it matters: Megan Holtz was inspired to create a fun space for her 8-year-old son, Vinny, who has sensory processing disorder. Now she&#x27;s opening <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Whimsy &amp; Wonder Play Cafe" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/whimsyandwonderplaycafe/" data-vars-content-id="5511c029-c47f-40ce-b2ae-945f05f978c3" data-vars-headline="This Ankeny mom is opening a giant play cafe for kids, and coffee for adults" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/whimsyandwonderplaycafe/" target="_blank">Whimsy &amp; Wonder Play Cafe</a> this fall, along with her husband, Mitch.

New West Des Moines dentistry focuses on spa-like experience

The new dental office opened near Coachlight Spa.

A new Des Moines practice is betting that a spa-like dentistry practice is in demand here.Why it matters: Americans are more obsessed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="with their teeth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.vogue.com/article/what-will-our-teeth-look-like-in-2045" data-vars-content-id="601a2ed6-3d98-451d-90f5-89305f112a14" data-vars-headline="New West Des Moines dentistry focuses on spa-like experience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.vogue.com/article/what-will-our-teeth-look-like-in-2045" target="_blank">with their teeth</a> than ever.

The Polk County Election Office may relocate

County officials want to increase the office's functionality and security.

The Polk County Election Office might relocate, county administrator John Norris tells Axios.Why it matters: The office has become busier in recent election cycles due to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state laws" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/03/22/iowas-urban-areas-are-increasingly-democratic-driving-efforts-to-limit-early-voting" data-vars-content-id="0f109df2-79f4-4d4d-a05b-0166ff8ba329" data-vars-headline="The Polk County Election Office may relocate" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/03/22/iowas-urban-areas-are-increasingly-democratic-driving-efforts-to-limit-early-voting" target="_self">state laws</a> that limit absentee dropbox locations to one per county.

Iowa's 1st District race could take weeks to finalize

Candidates have until Nov. 18 to request a recount.

The results of Iowa&#x27;s 1st District race remain up in the air, one week later.Why it matters: Thanks to outstanding races like this one, there&#x27;s still <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a slim chance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/11/07/house-election-results-control-count" data-vars-content-id="3063e71d-511a-406d-bd09-f7b723d0b95e" data-vars-headline="Iowa&#x27;s 1st District race could take weeks to finalize" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/11/07/house-election-results-control-count" target="_self">a slim chance</a> that Democrats will claim the U.S. House majority, although sources like Decision Desk HQ have <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="already projected" data-vars-click-url="https://decisiondeskhq.com/results/2024/General/US-House/" data-vars-content-id="3063e71d-511a-406d-bd09-f7b723d0b95e" data-vars-headline="Iowa&#x27;s 1st District race could take weeks to finalize" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://decisiondeskhq.com/results/2024/General/US-House/" target="_blank">already projected</a> the Republican Party will retain control.

Inflation? That's not on the minds of Iowa State Fairgoers

The Iowa State Fair has ended up as the "family vacation" spot for people looking for cheaper options.

Food and Drink

Even if we&#x27;re doing more penny-pinching this year, don&#x27;t expect rising food or fuel costs to dampen our appetite for the newest fair treats.Why it matters: At times of economic uncertainty, events like the Iowa State Fair become popular &quot;staycations&quot; for families, Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons says, and a fun spot to try the latest banana cream funnel sticks or pickle-flavored cheese curds.

What goes into the cost of an Iowa State Fair corndog

From rising oil prices to labor demands, the fair corndog is also influenced by economic pressures.

Corndogs, arguably the Iowa State Fair&#x27;s most iconic food staple, are becoming more expensive to produce, according to Campbell&#x27;s Concessions, the fair&#x27;s longest-running food vendor. State of play: With rising operation costs, supplies and fees, Grant Campbell of Campbell&#x27;s Concessions estimates it costs them 40% more to produce corndogs than it did before the pandemic.

Try butter-dipped ice cream at the Iowa State Fair

The soft serve cone is dipped in real, melted butter.

If you&#x27;re a fan of everything creamy and dairy, there&#x27;s a new ice cream at the Iowa State Fair for you.Driving the news: Coney Corner is selling butter-dipped ice cream ($6) with either vanilla or butter beer soft serve.

Vaccination rates decline in Polk County schools

Religious exemptions have increased since 2019.

Vaccination rates are sliding in Polk County schools as religious exemptions have climbed over the last five years.The big picture: The number of Polk County students not fully vaccinated has nearly doubled, rising from 2,937 students in 2019 to 5,571 in 2025, per Polk County Health data.

Des Moines development leader Matt Anderson to retire

He reflects on downtown projects, parking and life after City Hall.

Longtime Des Moines deputy city manager Matt Anderson will retire next year after nearly 25 years with the city.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Anderson" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/02/05/des-moines-parking-lots-downtown-development-principal-wells-fargo" data-vars-content-id="9067a189-7953-4a71-aec8-56edf3f90222" data-vars-headline="Des Moines development leader Matt Anderson to retire" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/02/05/des-moines-parking-lots-downtown-development-principal-wells-fargo" target="_self">Anderson</a> has been a behind-the-scenes force in preserving historic buildings, keeping major employers downtown, and guiding complex redevelopment projects.

Iowa State Fair ranks third by Yelp users for best food

Somebody, hold us back — the Iowa State Fair somehow only ranked third for best fair food in the country, and our passive-aggressive Protestant side is about to come out.Driving the news: In a fair food state ranking compiled by Yelp, the Midwest reigned supreme (obvi) with Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa as the top three states, respectively.

Iowa festival aims to explore the pursuit of happiness

Panels at the Tallgrass Festival of Ideas will center on the pursuit of happiness.

Culture

A festival in Des Moines will explore the theme &quot;The Pursuit of Happiness&quot; and the role the concept played in America&#x27;s foundation in light of the country&#x27;s 250th anniversary.Why it matters: Despite Thomas Jefferson&#x27;s writings and having more material comforts than ever, Americans are reporting more unhappiness, anxiety and detachment.

What RAGBRAI 2026 taught me about relationships

The ride has its ups and downs, literally.

Things to Do

Linh here. I&#x27;m back from my ninth RAGBRAI, and over the years, I&#x27;ve had many reflections about my favorite time of year.<ul><li>My latest has been the influence of the ride on relationships.</li></ul>

A giant indoor slide park is opening in Clive

The giant slide at the Iowa State Fair has some competition: A 33,000-square-foot indoor park with 13 slides is opening Friday in Clive.Driving the news: Two Altoona families are opening <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Slick City Action Park" data-vars-click-url="https://slickcity.com/ia-west-des-moines/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23894701419&amp;gbraid=0AAAAA_SKzOmpB-rYzFOWqvWn6hL9joLXD&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwguLSBhDLARIsAH-yPrE081TVBvv51BFdmMS71GEZ8dvpGlOZSXX2i-0BuoxzU1kl5lqGdwEaAmGPEALw_wcB" data-vars-content-id="0135a57d-1211-4706-989a-7696419fc980" data-vars-headline="A giant indoor slide park is opening in Clive" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://slickcity.com/ia-west-des-moines/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23894701419&amp;gbraid=0AAAAA_SKzOmpB-rYzFOWqvWn6hL9joLXD&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwguLSBhDLARIsAH-yPrE081TVBvv51BFdmMS71GEZ8dvpGlOZSXX2i-0BuoxzU1kl5lqGdwEaAmGPEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Slick City Action Park</a>, a Texas-based chain, at 9999 University Ave., near Valley West Mall, in the former Joann Fabrics.

How Hinterland founder Sam Summers starts his day

Sam Summers starts his days bright and early, despite working in the music industry.

Despite the late nights expected of people working in the music industry, you&#x27;ll likely find Hinterland founder Sam Summers waking up early most mornings.<ul><li>&quot;I have an 8-year-old, so she has some iPad time in the morning, and that&#x27;s when I give it to her,&quot; he tells Axios.</li></ul>

I'm scrambling to grow a giant pumpkin for the Iowa State Fair

Hope #1 and Hope #2 have a little over a month left to grow.

Linh here. I&#x27;m growing giant pumpkins in the hopes of showing one of them at the Iowa State Fair. <ul><li>They&#x27;re aptly named Hope #1 and Hope #2 (just in case).</li></ul>

Rural Iowa festival brings hip-hop, arts to small town

Middle of Nowhere festival highlights hip hop and diversity in Iowa's rural towns.

Hidden behind Iowa corn and soybean fields is a hip-hop and arts festival that aims to show diversity in music, art and community in small-town Iowa.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Middle of Nowhere festival" data-vars-click-url="https://thecellarwinery.com/event-calendar/2026/7/11/middle-of-nowhere-rural-art-music-festival" data-vars-content-id="9ebb95b2-b0b0-4f7b-a751-5a23c9498580" data-vars-headline="Rural Iowa festival brings hip-hop, arts to small town" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://thecellarwinery.com/event-calendar/2026/7/11/middle-of-nowhere-rural-art-music-festival" target="_blank">Middle of Nowhere festival</a> is hosting its third annual event Saturday at The Cellar Winery in Madrid.

Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro

From ice cream to Vietnamese coffee, there's a range of new dining spots.

Des Moines&#x27; restaurant scene has hit a rough patch, where it seems like every week, a beloved joint announces that times are tough (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="which they are" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/02/06/des-moines-restaurants-closing-fast-economy" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/02/06/des-moines-restaurants-closing-fast-economy" target="_self">which they are</a>) and it&#x27;s time to close shop.<ul><li>So let&#x27;s talk about some places that are opening — or have already opened — that you should check out. (Eat local, friends.) </li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Home Sweet Cone — (Ingersoll)</h2><figure><img alt="Close-up of a pink ice cream cup with a blue cone logo and the text Home Sweet Cone, holding a scoop of chocolate ice cream with a white plastic spoon, outdoors with a blurred storefront." height="872" id="dad54da0-0c6a-4f31-8d29-d35f1521460e" src="https://images.axios.com/KEllBQnmtf7Q6NTPZYjKd-Wo_sk=/2026/07/15/1784151927357.png" width="1570"/><figcaption>Olive oil drizzle and salt flakes on chocolate ice cream from the Waukee location. Photo: Linh Ta/Axios</figcaption></figure>The ice cream shop, which has locations in Waukee and West Des Moines, is opening its third location in September at 2701 Ingersoll Ave. in the Star Lofts, per the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Business Record" data-vars-click-url="https://www.businessrecord.com/home-sweet-cones-sweet-expansion-into-des-moines/" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.businessrecord.com/home-sweet-cones-sweet-expansion-into-des-moines/" target="_blank">Business Record</a>.<ul><li>(Yes, we also dream of the salted Oreo flavor.)</li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">The Breakfast Club (East Village)</h2><figure><img alt="Urban street scene with a modern building featuring large windows and a bright orange sign reading &quot;The Breakfast Club&quot; with a sun graphic. Pedestrians pass by and a silver car is parked in front." height="1872" id="66ff997a-7a8c-4a03-87fa-c7ae32f5041b" src="https://images.axios.com/hPDXbBcgNJUf7nQxzX-OZOp2IAU=/2026/07/03/1783095351743.jpeg" width="3330"/><figcaption>The Breakfast Club, · 418 E. Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios</figcaption></figure> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The brunch spot moved" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/07/07/breakfast-club-new-east-village-move-waukee" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/07/07/breakfast-club-new-east-village-move-waukee" target="_self">The brunch spot moved</a> from its original East Third Street storefront into a larger space at 418 E. Grand Ave. <ul><li>It also opened a location last month at Kettlestone Central in Waukee, expanding its suburban reach.</li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Saigon Day Cafe &amp; Bakery (Clive)</h2><figure><img alt="Split image: left lounge with striped wood wall, round mirrors, and a long cushioned bench; right three iced drinks in clear cups with domed lids on a wooden table in a bright cafe." height="882" id="2e1ec712-eeeb-4d08-b050-9dd85d4e4768" src="https://images.axios.com/4VupyLV4nEAnRxMqOtx517WbU2o=/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png" width="1568" srcset="https://images.axios.com/Wi_4Tja1mDaut7eljwsc8Z0qQBo=/0x0:1568x882/1920x1080/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=1920 1920w, https://images.axios.com/5ndHdIxar_Wm6i_DTW310ecpplg=/0x0:1568x882/1600x900/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=1600 1600w, https://images.axios.com/DbwuVHKBp2ZVASUkBwfSJG3PEXQ=/0x0:1568x882/1366x768/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=1366 1366w, https://images.axios.com/tQmEvuQcuL2vYO939RwQMoDbJbU=/0x0:1568x882/1024x576/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=1024 1024w, https://images.axios.com/uzYfNChCnYQGYYsSc1sNPDHsWzE=/0x0:1568x882/768x432/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=768 768w, https://images.axios.com/_D8xwvQRSAmB3Mqf9Kt-kHzPjSI=/0x0:1568x882/640x360/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=640 640w, https://images.axios.com/PAPVccmy3ciez0yW3ytfKJOjYac=/0x0:1568x882/320x180/2026/07/15/1784152408499.png?w=320 320w"/><figcaption>The inside of Saigon Day Cafe &amp; Bakery and coffees and a matcha. Photos: Linh Ta/Axios</figcaption></figure> Opened by a niece-aunt duo, offering a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="full menu of Vietnamese coffees" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/07/02/saigon-day-cafe-bakery-vietnamese-coffee-des-moines" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/07/02/saigon-day-cafe-bakery-vietnamese-coffee-des-moines" target="_self">full menu of Vietnamese coffees</a>, including cà phê muối (salted coffee) and cà phê trứng (egg coffee), off University Boulevard near Taste of Italy.More openings we&#x27;re hyped about:🍾 Cuvée (downtown) — A Champagne lounge and tapas bar is opening at the former Café Madeleine location, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Register reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/entertainment/dining/2026/07/14/cuvee-champagne-lounge-cafe-madeleine-downtown-des-moines-restaurants/90829313007/" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/entertainment/dining/2026/07/14/cuvee-champagne-lounge-cafe-madeleine-downtown-des-moines-restaurants/90829313007/" target="_blank">the Register reports</a>.<ul><li>The lounge is being opened by Chef David Baruthio&#x27;s former sommelier. It&#x27;s planned to open in late summer.</li></ul>🍨 Nothing Major (downtown) — Nick Tillinghast, owner of Hello, Marjorie and Secret Admirer, is rebranding and moving his speakeasy into a new cocktail bar and ice cream parlor. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Planned for this summer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/04/24/owner-of-hello-marjorie-opening-another-bar-in-downtowns-equitable-building" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/04/24/owner-of-hello-marjorie-opening-another-bar-in-downtowns-equitable-building" target="_self">Planned for this summer</a>.🍣 Osaka (West Des Moines) — A sushi and Japanese takeout spot at 640 S. 50th St. offering nigiri, onigiri, matcha and protein smoothies. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Japanese-owned shop" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/osaka_ia/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/osaka_ia/?hl=en" target="_blank">The Japanese-owned shop</a> opened in May.🍸 T12 Distillery (Valley Junction) — T12 Distillery, which founder Scott Turczynski began in fall 2022, took over Foundry Distilling&#x27;s former space at 111 S. 11th St. in late May, per the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Business Record" data-vars-click-url="https://www.businessrecord.com/t12-distillery-finds-home-in-valley-junction/" data-vars-content-id="0c51c8c6-f364-473e-bd9c-68e4b028eac9" data-vars-headline="Here are 7 new dining spots opening in the Des Moines metro" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.businessrecord.com/t12-distillery-finds-home-in-valley-junction/" target="_blank">Business Record</a>.<ul><li>The name refers to the T12 vertebra, which sits at the transition between the mid and lower back. Turczynski suffered a spinal cord injury after falling off a retaining wall.</li></ul>

First bite: The Breakfast Club's new East Village digs

Its downtown restaurant now has more space, and it has a new Waukee location.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Breakfast Club" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thebreakfastclubusa.com/" data-vars-content-id="c212936f-7da5-41bb-a884-6b0557e9d93d" data-vars-headline="First bite: The Breakfast Club&#x27;s new East Village digs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thebreakfastclubusa.com/" target="_blank">The Breakfast Club</a> has a new home in the East Village.Why it matters: The club has become one of the metro&#x27;s most visible brunch brands, and now there&#x27;s more room for its crowds.Driving the news: The restaurant moved from its original East Third Street location to a larger building across the street from Zombie Burger about a month ago.<ul><li>It also opened a location last month at Kettlestone Central in Waukee, 2285 Grand Prairie Parkway, expanding its suburban reach beyond its West Des Moines and Ankeny restaurants.</li></ul><figure><img alt="Urban street scene with a modern building featuring large windows and a bright orange sign reading &quot;The Breakfast Club&quot; with a sun graphic. Pedestrians pass by and a silver car is parked in front." height="1872" id="66ff997a-7a8c-4a03-87fa-c7ae32f5041b" src="https://images.axios.com/hPDXbBcgNJUf7nQxzX-OZOp2IAU=/2026/07/03/1783095351743.jpeg" width="3330"/><figcaption>The Breakfast Club&#x27;s new spot in the East Village. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios</figcaption></figure>On the menu: Many of the favorites — a mix of comfort food and novelty breakfast items, including pancake tacos, breakfast burritos, chicken and waffles, loaded hash browns, omelets, French toast, and brunch cocktails.<ul><li>Fans of the old space will recognize its bright, playful décor.</li></ul>On my plate: I split the Strawberry Shortcake Waffle ($15) with my hubby because nobody needs that many carbs and sugar. With the side of bacon we ordered and our coffee, it was the perfect portion.<ul><li>It came with lemon mousse, strawberries and whipped cream — sweet, bright and delicious.</li></ul>If you go: The Breakfast Club East Village is open daily from 6am to 2:30pm.<ul><li>418 E. Grand Ave. in DSM</li></ul>

Vietnamese coffee culture comes to Des Moines

The new coffee shop offers a full menu of Vietnamese coffees.

A new cafe in Clive is bringing Vietnamese coffee culture and a taste of Saigon&#x27;s street life to the Des Moines metro.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Saigon Day Cafe &amp; Bakery" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/saigondaydsm" data-vars-content-id="c581af4e-94a8-4c84-b4f8-3a62a964488d" data-vars-headline="Vietnamese coffee culture comes to Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/saigondaydsm" target="_blank">Saigon Day Cafe &amp; Bakery</a>, opened by a niece-aunt duo, is offering a full menu of Vietnamese coffees, including cà phê muối (a salted coffee) and cà phê trứng (a creamy egg coffee), off University Boulevard near Taste of Italy.

A new analysis questions Iowans devotion to eating corn

An Instacart analysis shows fewer Iowans are ordering corn.

<figure><img alt="US map showing state-by-state percent difference in corn orders on Instacart; yellow indicates more corn, gray indicates less, with the title at top reading &quot;Not Your Midwest Corn&quot;." height="1166" id="27b2cbaf-1cd8-4149-8044-efc589204bcb" src="https://images.axios.com/1W-7RDhNU2gPXdhqyy0kdVMcJOY=/2026/06/23/1782239243005.png" width="1384"/><figcaption>Map: Courtesy of Instacart</figcaption></figure>There&#x27;s nothing like gnawing on a buttery corn cob in the summer, but a new Instacart analysis is questioning Iowans&#x27; passion for the grain, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="noting we&#x27;re 37% less likely" data-vars-click-url="https://company.instacart.com/data-trends/sweet-corn-stone-fruit-and-strong-opinions-what-instacart-orders-reveal-about-america-s-summer-produce-season" data-vars-content-id="f010b99b-7c35-4825-8f67-a5754ccd2b84" data-vars-headline="A new analysis questions Iowans devotion to eating corn" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://company.instacart.com/data-trends/sweet-corn-stone-fruit-and-strong-opinions-what-instacart-orders-reveal-about-america-s-summer-produce-season" target="_blank">noting we&#x27;re 37% less likely</a> than the rest of the country to order corn through the app.What they&#x27;re saying: &quot;Turns out corn on Instacart is a New England thing, not a Midwest thing.&quot;

Casey's plans to add 400 new stores over next 3 years

The Ankeny-based company is becoming one of the nation's largest convenience stores.

Casey&#x27;s says it plans to add 400 stores over the next three years, doubling down on the rural and suburban markets that helped turn the Ankeny-based chain into one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nation&#x27;s largest convenience retailers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/06/12/caseys-grew-a-lot-including-its-gas-profit-margins" data-vars-content-id="2f9a173b-0cbc-49e3-a88d-60f8013f9aca" data-vars-headline="Casey&#x27;s plans to add 400 new stores over next 3 years" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/06/12/caseys-grew-a-lot-including-its-gas-profit-margins" target="_self">nation&#x27;s largest convenience retailers</a>.Driving the news: The company&#x27;s &quot;sweet spot&quot; is communities of under 20,000 people, where competition is thinner and its combination of gas, groceries and food gives it an edge, CEO Darren Rebelez shared during an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="investor presentation" data-vars-click-url="https://investor.caseys.com/static-files/282c53ca-5901-433f-bda2-730dc4bd84b9" data-vars-content-id="2f9a173b-0cbc-49e3-a88d-60f8013f9aca" data-vars-headline="Casey&#x27;s plans to add 400 new stores over next 3 years" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://investor.caseys.com/static-files/282c53ca-5901-433f-bda2-730dc4bd84b9" target="_blank">investor presentation</a> on Wednesday.

New Filipino coffee shop opening in Des Moines' East Village

The coffee pop-up has found a brick-and-mortar home.

Seven siblings are opening <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Grounded" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/groundedbythecollective/" data-vars-content-id="b028836d-b25f-4f37-8c96-6de15e654458" data-vars-headline="New Filipino coffee shop opening in Des Moines&#x27; East Village" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/groundedbythecollective/" target="_blank">Grounded</a>, a new coffee shop in the East Village, featuring Filipino flavors they grew up loving.Why it matters: As brands like Starbucks and Trader Joe&#x27;s flood the market with Filipino <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ube flavors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.marketplace.org/story/2026/03/09/ubes-surging-popularity-challenges-filipino-supply-chain" data-vars-content-id="b028836d-b25f-4f37-8c96-6de15e654458" data-vars-headline="New Filipino coffee shop opening in Des Moines&#x27; East Village" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.marketplace.org/story/2026/03/09/ubes-surging-popularity-challenges-filipino-supply-chain" target="_blank">ube flavors</a>, this immigrant-owned shop wants to share their traditions with other Iowans.

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