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National

5 changes Trump could make to U.S. currency

Politics & Policy

Judge blocks Pentagon's restrictive press access policy

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Advanced nuclear startup X-energy files for IPO

Energy & Climate

Senate Dems plot immigration offensive

Inside Cortez Masto's counterpunch on behalf of moderates

Fleur Drive Bridge could become a pedestrian bridge

The bridge is no longer the main route between downtown Des Moines and the airport.

News

The Fleur Drive Bridge over the Raccoon River could become a pedestrian bridge as part of an ongoing evaluation by the city of Des Moines.

Dave's Hot Chicken and Bonchon opening in West Des Moines

Here are the latest restaurants opening and closing in the Des Moines area.

Food and Drink

Here are some of the latest restaurants that are opening, closing, or making moves across the metro.

Arrest made in murder of Iowa realtor Ashley Okland

West Des Moines police have made an arrest in the nearly 15-year-old homicide case of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="realtor Ashley Okland" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/04/08/des-moines-realtor-safety-ashley-okland-murder" data-vars-content-id="f44caa12-08ae-4a0c-96fc-44871793b21b" data-vars-headline="Arrest made in murder of Iowa realtor Ashley Okland" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/04/08/des-moines-realtor-safety-ashley-okland-murder" target="_self">realtor Ashley Okland</a>, per the police department.State of play: Kristin Ramsey, 53, is charged with first-degree murder. <ul><li>West Des Moines Police will share more details about the arrest during a news conference at 9am Wednesday.</li></ul>Flashback: On April 8, 2011, Okland <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="was shot twice" data-vars-click-url="https://crimestoppersofcentraliowa.com/sitemenu.aspx?P=unsolved&amp;ID=772&amp;SID=5954" data-vars-content-id="f44caa12-08ae-4a0c-96fc-44871793b21b" data-vars-headline="Arrest made in murder of Iowa realtor Ashley Okland" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://crimestoppersofcentraliowa.com/sitemenu.aspx?P=unsolved&amp;ID=772&amp;SID=5954" target="_blank">was shot twice</a> while showing a model townhome near 84th Street and EP True Parkway.<ul><li>An employee for the townhome&#x27;s developer found Okland on the floor. She was transported to Iowa Methodist Medical Center downtown, where she later died.</li><li>In an interview with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios earlier this year" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/01/20/police-chief-crime-cold-case-west-des-moines" data-vars-content-id="f44caa12-08ae-4a0c-96fc-44871793b21b" data-vars-headline="Arrest made in murder of Iowa realtor Ashley Okland" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/01/20/police-chief-crime-cold-case-west-des-moines" target="_self">Axios earlier this year</a>, former West Des Moines Police Chief Chris Scott shared that Okland&#x27;s homicide &quot;never collected dust&quot; and the department continued to get tips.</li></ul>

Polk County seeks to claw back some of $2.5M settlement

A law firm that represented the county will be asked to help pay the settlement.

Polk County supervisors narrowly approved hiring a law firm last week to try to recover part of last month&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$2.5 million settlement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-des-moines-9038a8df-de71-4f9e-a7a7-a039feceba5c.html?chunk=4&amp;utm_term=emshare#story4" data-vars-content-id="6a039aa8-a299-40ae-afd4-003902dd1575" data-vars-headline="Polk County seeks to claw back some of $2.5M settlement" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-des-moines-9038a8df-de71-4f9e-a7a7-a039feceba5c.html?chunk=4&amp;utm_term=emshare#story4" target="_self">$2.5 million settlement</a> with former HR director Jim Nahas.Why it matters: Even though insurance covers part of the settlement, taxpayers still bear the burden of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Dallas County polling site mix-ups frustrate West Des Moines officials

For the special election, Dallas County had three voting centers, instead of the typical precincts.

Politics

Confusion over Dallas County polling locations did not help with the low voter turnout for a special West Des Moines City Council election last month, city officials say.Why it matters: Running the special election cost the city an estimated $30,000–$40,000, according to City Clerk Ryan Jacobson, and a runoff election on March 17 is expected to have a similar price tag.

Bills restricting abortion pills, ending vaccine requirements advance in Iowa

Lawmakers advanced bills that would restrict abortion pills and remove school vaccine mandates.

Iowa&#x27;s first legislative funnel deadline passed last week, narrowing the field of bills that can become law this session.Why it matters: Several measures have direct implications for Des Moines residents, including vaccine requirements and access to public libraries and abortion pills.

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>.

Iowa small businesses feel tariff squeeze

Shop owners say thin margins make tariff swings hard to absorb.

Iowa business owners say they started feeling the pain of tariffs last year, and this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Supreme Court ruling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/20/trump-tariffs-supreme-court-illegal" data-vars-content-id="3a7ac880-de0c-4a87-a12c-3cd6ef6e8235" data-vars-headline="Iowa small businesses feel tariff squeeze" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/20/trump-tariffs-supreme-court-illegal" target="_self">Supreme Court ruling</a> hasn&#x27;t brought any clarity for the future.Why it matters: Small business owners say their profit margins are too small to absorb tariff-related price shocks, making planning for the future difficult.

Casey's CEO says oil volatility isn't hurting demand

Retail gas rose 30 cents, but prices remain in the low $3 range.

Casey&#x27;s CEO Darren Rebelez isn&#x27;t too worried about the recent oil market volatility tied to Iran, noting the company has weathered similar challenges before, and usually comes out ahead.The big picture: Casey&#x27;s retail fuel prices jumped roughly 30 cents per gallon following recent geopolitical events, but they are still sitting in the low $3 range, which Rebelez noted is 30 cents below where prices stood when Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

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.

Defense: $2M bond unconstitutional for suspect in Ashley Okland murder

New details emerge about Kristin "Krissy" Ramsey in new court motion.

Attorneys for Kristin &quot;Krissy&quot; Ramsey are asking a Dallas County judge to lower her $2 million cash bond <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="after she was charged" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/17/arrest-made-in-murder-of-iowa-realtor-ashley-okland?utm_term=emshare" data-vars-content-id="c25b73a7-e9a7-4894-b813-83ded4ee7dc3" data-vars-headline="Defense: $2M bond unconstitutional for suspect in Ashley Okland murder" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/17/arrest-made-in-murder-of-iowa-realtor-ashley-okland?utm_term=emshare" target="_self">after she was charged</a> in the 2011 killing of West Des Moines realtor Ashley Okland.Why it matters: The request highlights growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="legal pressure" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/politics-illinois-state-government-legal-proceedings-lawsuits-b310c3f68a1abed94fd71a0709d34df2" data-vars-content-id="c25b73a7-e9a7-4894-b813-83ded4ee7dc3" data-vars-headline="Defense: $2M bond unconstitutional for suspect in Ashley Okland murder" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-illinois-state-government-legal-proceedings-lawsuits-b310c3f68a1abed94fd71a0709d34df2" target="_blank">legal pressure</a> on courts to avoid setting bail so high — even in serious cases — that defendants who can&#x27;t afford to pay are detained unconstitutionally.

Sweet Tooth Farm owner wants to preserve her original garden

An urban farmer in Des Moines wants to buy her garden's land.

An urban farmer who has leased a former Des Moines pocket park for nearly a decade is trying to keep her farm as the city considers selling the land.Why it matters: Monika Owczarski, who runs Sweet Tooth Farm and helps provide homegrown food to low-income families, has had a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="complicated history with Des Moines" data-vars-click-url="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/des-moines/2026/02/23/des-moines-urban-farm-vacant-industrial-site/88499635007/" data-vars-content-id="3ede36ab-530d-4033-839f-c09c3ca95412" data-vars-headline="Sweet Tooth Farm owner wants to preserve her original garden" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/des-moines/2026/02/23/des-moines-urban-farm-vacant-industrial-site/88499635007/" target="_blank">complicated history with Des Moines</a> since officials sold other parcels of land she was farming.

Greyhound's new Des Moines routes eligible for $551K in grants

New routes to St. Louis and Indianapolis cost as little as $52 a ticket.

Greyhound introduced new daily routes this week from Des Moines to St. Louis and Indianapolis.Why it matters: More towns in Iowa will now have affordable, direct connections to major Midwest cities.

Des Moines' latest blight fight move: Expanding a home repair program

The program offers homeowners up to $40,000 to fix homes.

Des Moines is expanding its list of contractors involved in the Improving Our Neighborhoods program, marking a significant step in a new<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" citywide housing plan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/02/13/des-moines-first-home-purchase-citywide-housing-strategy" data-vars-content-id="f5cfd877-6210-4342-9c77-d37cea8cb0a0" data-vars-headline="Des Moines&#x27; latest blight fight move: Expanding a home repair program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/02/13/des-moines-first-home-purchase-citywide-housing-strategy" target="_self"> citywide housing plan</a>.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The program" data-vars-click-url="https://www.dsm.city/departments/neighborhood_services/property_improvement/ion.php" data-vars-content-id="f5cfd877-6210-4342-9c77-d37cea8cb0a0" data-vars-headline="Des Moines&#x27; latest blight fight move: Expanding a home repair program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.dsm.city/departments/neighborhood_services/property_improvement/ion.php" target="_blank">The program</a>, which offers up to $40,000 to homeowners for home improvements, is likely to see much higher use in the upcoming months.

Ankeny explores need for new hospital

City leaders want to study whether a hospital is needed as Ankeny grows.

As Ankeny&#x27;s population continues to grow, city officials are considering a feasibility study to determine whether the area needs a hospital.Why it matters: A new hospital could shorten ambulance response times and expand access to care for residents, especially since there are no 24/7 emergency rooms in the area.State of play: The northern suburb has nearly 80,000 residents and is projected to reach 120,000 over the next 15 years, per the city. Nearby towns, like Polk City,<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" are also growing quickly" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kcci.com/article/iowa-special-census-west-des-moines-johnston-altoona-grimes-clive/65078169" data-vars-content-id="ab332531-1d4a-4e7d-b410-2821766f8def" data-vars-headline="Ankeny explores need for new hospital" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kcci.com/article/iowa-special-census-west-des-moines-johnston-altoona-grimes-clive/65078169" target="_blank"> are also growing quickly</a>.Zoom out: Des Moines and Ames have the closest major hospitals with emergency rooms.<ul><li>The last hospital to open in the metro was<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Methodist West in 2009" data-vars-click-url="https://www.businessrecord.com/long-awaited-methodist-west-opens-oct-26/" data-vars-content-id="ab332531-1d4a-4e7d-b410-2821766f8def" data-vars-headline="Ankeny explores need for new hospital" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.businessrecord.com/long-awaited-methodist-west-opens-oct-26/" target="_blank"> Methodist West in 2009</a>.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: The City Council still needs to approve the contract for the study, which will be conducted this summer. The cost estimate is $12,500.<ul><li>If the study determines there is a need, city officials will reach out to potential hospital providers.</li></ul>

Polk assessor website is losing its key search function

Real estate agents and others "will not be happy," assessor says.

The Polk County Assessor&#x27;s website — long a go-to for property searches and photos — will soon indefinitely lose the tools that made it a staple for real estate agents, homeowners and researchers.Why it matters: The site is the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="main public source" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/03/06/assessments-polk-county-desmoines-increase-huge" data-vars-content-id="fe720b76-814f-48bd-b967-4aecc9f7c1e2" data-vars-headline="Polk assessor website is losing its key search function" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/03/06/assessments-polk-county-desmoines-increase-huge" target="_self">main public source</a> for Polk County property data, and losing its search tool and photos could slow down real estate transactions, reduce transparency, and cause more residents to call county staff for basic information.

Iowa water pollution report deadline is Thursday

A draft report lists hundreds of water segments that require cleanup plans.

The public comment deadline for a draft state report that highlights pollution concerns in parts of the Raccoon and Des Moines rivers is Thursday.Why it matters: Listing waterways as &quot;impaired&quot; can trigger cleanup planning and increased scrutiny of pollution sources, including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="agricultural runoff" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/06/26/polk-county-water-report-river-nitrate-des-moines" data-vars-content-id="216fb8d0-f322-4204-8a12-e4313d973d0b" data-vars-headline="Iowa water pollution report deadline is Thursday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/06/26/polk-county-water-report-river-nitrate-des-moines" target="_self">agricultural runoff</a>.

Des Moines' best chicken tenders: Christopher's

Christopher's is the place to stop for some unique tenders.

Things to Do

Listen, I&#x27;m not the type of person to order only chicken tenders when I go to a restaurant (unless it&#x27;s Raising Cane&#x27;s), but the Kim&#x27;s chicken tenders ($14) at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Christopher&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.christophersdsm.com/menu" data-vars-content-id="74d0ad2a-6e0f-4711-8107-b87b89f7b333" data-vars-headline="Des Moines&#x27; best chicken tenders: Christopher&#x27;s" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.christophersdsm.com/menu" target="_blank">Christopher&#x27;s</a> in Beaverdale have me feeling a certain type of way.What it is: Three chicken strips breaded in cornflakes, almonds, and the secret to what makes it unique — brown sugar.<ul><li>It&#x27;s served with a side of honey mustard sauce (arguably better than ranch.)</li></ul>What I liked: As a sweet and savory lover, the sweeter breading won me over, balancing out the saltiness of the chicken. If you&#x27;re a fan of chicken nuggets and honey, this is the dish for you.<ul><li>Texturally, the cornflakes and almonds gave the strips a nice crisp and crunchy exterior.</li></ul>If you go: 5-10pm Monday-Thursday; 5-11pm Friday-Saturday; 2816 Beaver Ave., Des Moines.

These 3 Valley Junction businesses are expanding

Despite tariffs and economic uncertainties facing Valley Junction business owners, several shops are expanding.

Despite tariffs and economic uncertainties facing Valley Junction business owners, several shops are expanding their footprint and adding new features to their storefronts.The big picture: At least three businesses are expanding right now, and another, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tulip Bloom Boutique" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573818149247" data-vars-content-id="abb7ccb7-680e-4148-a6a7-a6f92c0f4c6a" data-vars-headline="These 3 Valley Junction businesses are expanding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573818149247" target="_blank">Tulip Bloom Boutique</a>, already doubled its footprint earlier this year.🌮 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="La Michoacána Mexican Groceries" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/LaMichoacanaMGroceries?__cft__[0]=AZbVHtb9s3XA3jIruMyQzhQU5QDH3ImzjNtcQNP5NNZOnC_WR18Bovl0BI2WPEnObr9hTxX4mOWhc829MtT5krdlUMDSMrt8ZQfffadiZZPcSCPCG7M_NusoGSQcga4rPp17H-WVTpILHJpLwt0CWcxyHK2kvvUyL-VGt4496IADC6jKsrmzIOk81MuHzPlcrIseoxiKQb9py7zdP2HTbulfnHYTBXlTIIz1Ill01UcbY2vHCVThn3lf4DmI7Jiy2nY&amp;__tn__=-UC%2CP-R" data-vars-content-id="abb7ccb7-680e-4148-a6a7-a6f92c0f4c6a" data-vars-headline="These 3 Valley Junction businesses are expanding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/LaMichoacanaMGroceries?__cft__[0]=AZbVHtb9s3XA3jIruMyQzhQU5QDH3ImzjNtcQNP5NNZOnC_WR18Bovl0BI2WPEnObr9hTxX4mOWhc829MtT5krdlUMDSMrt8ZQfffadiZZPcSCPCG7M_NusoGSQcga4rPp17H-WVTpILHJpLwt0CWcxyHK2kvvUyL-VGt4496IADC6jKsrmzIOk81MuHzPlcrIseoxiKQb9py7zdP2HTbulfnHYTBXlTIIz1Ill01UcbY2vHCVThn3lf4DmI7Jiy2nY&amp;__tn__=-UC%2CP-R" target="_blank">La Michoacána Mexican Groceries</a> — The longtime popular grocery store and restaurant is building an addition in the back and expanding its kitchen to offer more foods and seating for customers, says Andres Castro, whose family owns the store.<ul><li>The 21-year-old shop is getting a major expansion, adding 1,708 square feet to its current 988-square-foot space.</li><li>The menu will grow too, with more breakfast items among the additions, Castro says.</li><li>&quot;We love the whole street. Just the whole vibe about it,&quot; he says. &quot;We lived here all our lives, my whole family.&quot;</li></ul><figure><img alt="Shop window of Five Monkeys Inc art studio with neon sign shaped like a yellow palette and text, displaying ceramic pieces and a rainbow heart decoration inside." height="3024" id="9d36a1ab-8eec-4480-96e0-466e3e478c22" src="https://images.axios.com/uydP-MrRmfBBCcbr1zCSt8J_6Ks=/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg" width="4032" srcset="https://images.axios.com/1izT2uqiQJE9SdstqWzIdFijxOw=/0x0:4032x3024/1920x1440/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=1920 1920w, https://images.axios.com/oQTQZ8x2FgV3FgzNmqkag0A7ruc=/0x0:4032x3024/1600x1200/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=1600 1600w, https://images.axios.com/77GzVnSbFKAlb8nNk0t7UkkRJyc=/0x0:4032x3024/1366x1024/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=1366 1366w, https://images.axios.com/da9rjp5oKCR2cvgYTeu6KW6auUM=/0x0:4032x3024/1024x768/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=1024 1024w, https://images.axios.com/hElTptq8ykoSQAEa6VH2h6bBaQc=/0x0:4032x3024/768x576/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=768 768w, https://images.axios.com/zuuHz0H6CzLj4IEnAcsQNv1Ac8Y=/0x0:4032x3024/640x480/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=640 640w, https://images.axios.com/5TTz-p4rN2edTzdJln_8I17wHSI=/0x0:4032x3024/320x240/2026/03/09/1773017029497.jpeg?w=320 320w"/><figcaption>Five Monkeys Inc. storefront. Photo: Linh Ta/Axios</figcaption></figure>🎨 Five Monkeys Inc. — The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="paint-your-own pottery studio" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fivemonkeysinc.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorhPba6ohsTM2GcOLelXOtq7I4sHI2PakQwvAmXcuvjrwD6KxKG" data-vars-content-id="abb7ccb7-680e-4148-a6a7-a6f92c0f4c6a" data-vars-headline="These 3 Valley Junction businesses are expanding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fivemonkeysinc.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorhPba6ohsTM2GcOLelXOtq7I4sHI2PakQwvAmXcuvjrwD6KxKG" target="_blank">paint-your-own pottery studio</a> already doubled its space in 2024, but owner Dina Bechman is ready to grow even more with the opening of a fused glass studio.<ul><li>Bechman, who enjoys creating her <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="own fused glass projects" data-vars-click-url="https://moltenworksglass.com/what-the-heck-is-glass-fusing" data-vars-content-id="abb7ccb7-680e-4148-a6a7-a6f92c0f4c6a" data-vars-headline="These 3 Valley Junction businesses are expanding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://moltenworksglass.com/what-the-heck-is-glass-fusing" target="_blank">own fused glass projects</a>, is expanding into the former Quill &amp; Nib store next door.</li><li>While Bechman&#x27;s pottery studio attracts a lot of newcomers and special occasion visits, she wants the glass studio to be a hangout space for creatives to learn from each other.</li><li>When it opens, she will operate almost 5,000 square feet. An open house for the new studio is March 22.</li></ul>🥩 BW Outdoors — When Marshall Porter and his business partner, Mike Busch, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="opened BW Outdoors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.getbwoutdoors.com/" data-vars-content-id="abb7ccb7-680e-4148-a6a7-a6f92c0f4c6a" data-vars-headline="These 3 Valley Junction businesses are expanding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.getbwoutdoors.com/" target="_blank">opened BW Outdoors</a> over two years ago, there wasn&#x27;t a place in Des Moines where someone passionate about outdoor cooking could walk in and get expertise.<ul><li>Now, after operating out of a 1,000-square-foot space, the store is expanding and moving next door into a larger shop at 509 and 511 Elm St.</li><li>With the expanded space, one side will be dedicated to barbecue supply and the other to outdoor kitchens and patios, where they&#x27;ll help customers build out their kitchens, including countertops, storage and infrared heaters.</li><li>A customer appreciation event in the new space is planned for May 1.</li></ul>

Unromantic Valentine's Day plans in Des Moines

Take a ride in my Subaru and let me show you places only the locals know.

Hey, baby. Anyone can take you to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ruth&#x27;s Chris" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/08/15/ruths-chris-steak-house-opens-iowa-largest-restaurant" data-vars-content-id="8d9b8838-b66e-4ca7-a4b5-8ec3f2ffb03b" data-vars-headline="Unromantic Valentine&#x27;s Day plans in Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/08/15/ruths-chris-steak-house-opens-iowa-largest-restaurant" target="_self">Ruth&#x27;s Chris</a> or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cooper&#x27;s Hawk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2022/12/02/coopers-hawk-winery-opening-iowa" data-vars-content-id="8d9b8838-b66e-4ca7-a4b5-8ec3f2ffb03b" data-vars-headline="Unromantic Valentine&#x27;s Day plans in Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2022/12/02/coopers-hawk-winery-opening-iowa" target="_self">Cooper&#x27;s Hawk</a> for Valentine&#x27;s Day. <ul><li>But I know you. You&#x27;re looking for something unique, something a little less pedestrian.</li></ul>Take a ride in my Subaru and let me show you places only the locals know.

Salisbury House relaunches murder mystery dinners

A local mystery writer penned the latest murder.

Salisbury House&#x27;s popular Murder Mystery Dinners return next month, with tickets going on sale tonight.Why it matters: The two-show event typically sells out within hours.

Matcha business owner combines passion for plants and tea

Green Finds Cafe is a new matcha pop-up business in town.

Green Finds Cafe, a mobile <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="matcha pop-up business" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/greenfindscafe/" data-vars-content-id="12928d1c-97c6-4583-9a66-7f525f104ea7" data-vars-headline="Matcha business owner combines passion for plants and tea" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/greenfindscafe/" target="_blank">matcha pop-up business</a>, is bringing the popular green tea beverage to events around Des Moines.The big picture: The drink is finding its way to menus across the Des Moines metro, especially as some people seek a subtler caffeine buzz than coffee.

This Valentine's Day, call — don't click — to book dinner

Reservation apps can be costly and give an incomplete picture of available seating.

Some Des Moines restaurateurs are advising customers to call to make a reservation rather than book through an app.Why it matters: Razor-thin profit margins and an ongoing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local restaurant crisis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/02/06/des-moines-restaurants-closing-fast-economy" data-vars-content-id="98d4fd41-b8ca-4ca8-9f06-56a017046718" data-vars-headline="This Valentine&#x27;s Day, call — don&#x27;t click — to book dinner" 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">local restaurant crisis</a> make every dollar count — and reservation fees add up fast in a tough local market.

First bite: Ocha opens new dessert cafe in downtown Des Moines

The bubble tea shop expanded its dessert menu for the downtown location.

Ocha Bubble Tea and Dessert Cafe <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="opened its doors this month" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/25/ocha-bubble-tea-opening-in-downtown-des-moines" data-vars-content-id="e8af6efd-5004-4815-8b6f-3839f7f13f7f" data-vars-headline="First bite: Ocha opens new dessert cafe in downtown Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/25/ocha-bubble-tea-opening-in-downtown-des-moines" target="_self">opened its doors this month</a> in the Court Avenue district, and I stopped by on a Sunday afternoon to satisfy my sweet tooth.State of play: The cute boba tea shop is in the former Despensary location.

Why Des Moines' restaurants are closing fast

Iowa lost nearly 4,000 leisure and hospitality jobs last year.

A growing list of popular metro restaurants that have announced closures in recent months is likely to extend due to long-term workforce and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic pressures" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/04/20/restaurant-bills-tabs-higher-groceries-iowa" data-vars-content-id="4ebfcf55-a0d0-474d-9b03-6f1c1f3c20c9" data-vars-headline="Why Des Moines&#x27; restaurants are closing fast" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/04/20/restaurant-bills-tabs-higher-groceries-iowa" target="_self">economic pressures</a>, Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association, tells Axios.Why it matters: Restaurants are a major economic and cultural engine for the Des Moines metro — anchoring foot traffic, drawing tourism, creating first jobs, and shaping how people experience the region.

The best thing Linh ate: Tous les Jours honey cheese pancakes

The $5 little pancakes have an irresistible chew to them.

If you&#x27;ve been to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tous les Jours" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/07/08/tous-les-jours-west-des-moines-food-review" data-vars-content-id="afd11826-f2b7-413d-9d89-ebd1b665db36" data-vars-headline="The best thing Linh ate: Tous les Jours honey cheese pancakes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/07/08/tous-les-jours-west-des-moines-food-review" target="_self">Tous les Jours</a>, the Korean-French bakery outside Jordan Creek mall, you&#x27;ll know there are a lot of pastry choices, including some hits and misses.<ul><li>However, I&#x27;ve found myself regularly craving the honey cheese pancakes ($5) — three little mochi pancakes with a cheesy filling.</li></ul>

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