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Scoop: Senate Republicans fear Mississippi is in play

Panic is spreading through the Republican Party.

Politics & Policy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Senate Republicans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/23/senate-ohio-alaska-iowa-texas-kansas-mississippi-nebraska" data-vars-content-id="b868c375-a5a2-48d1-bb6b-f09c08ba09e6" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Senate Republicans fear Mississippi is in play" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/23/senate-ohio-alaska-iowa-texas-kansas-mississippi-nebraska" target="_self">Senate Republicans</a> are weighing three last-ditch spending moves that would have been unimaginable six months ago: a cash infusion for Mississippi and even more money for South Carolina and Kansas.Why it matters: It&#x27;s been <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="94 years since Kansas " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/democrat-2026-republican-winning-streak-kansas" data-vars-content-id="b868c375-a5a2-48d1-bb6b-f09c08ba09e6" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Senate Republicans fear Mississippi is in play" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/democrat-2026-republican-winning-streak-kansas" target="_self">94 years since Kansas </a>elected a Democratic senator, 44 years for Mississippi and 28 for South Carolina. But panic is spreading through the Republican Party.

Meta hit with $25 billion penalty for misleading Facebook users

The fallout from Facebook's infamous data scandal is far from over.

A New Mexico judge ordered <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Meta" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/12/meta-new-ai-models-anthropic-openai" data-vars-content-id="493a0511-730c-47a3-a341-5472be4abfc1" data-vars-headline="Meta hit with $25 billion penalty for misleading Facebook users" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/12/meta-new-ai-models-anthropic-openai" target="_self">Meta</a> to pay $25 billion in penalties Wednesday after a jury found in September that the social media giant misled users about their data privacy.Why it matters: The penalties come nearly a decade after the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cambridge Analytica scandal" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2018/03/18/cambridge-analytica-scandal-highlights-chaos-at-facebook" data-vars-content-id="493a0511-730c-47a3-a341-5472be4abfc1" data-vars-headline="Meta hit with $25 billion penalty for misleading Facebook users" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2018/03/18/cambridge-analytica-scandal-highlights-chaos-at-facebook" target="_self">Cambridge Analytica scandal</a> first broke and signal that Big Tech can face significant financial consequences for misleading users about their privacy.

Americans' opinion of the CDC hits record low

The agency has been at the center of heated political fights over the last six years.

Americans&#x27; ratings of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have fallen to a record low, according to a recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gallup poll" data-vars-click-url="https://news.gallup.com/poll/715907/cabinet-department-job-ratings-worse-year.aspx" data-vars-content-id="7d23377c-2e6e-43ab-a00e-ccb25b540ed6" data-vars-headline="Americans&#x27; opinion of the CDC hits record low" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/715907/cabinet-department-job-ratings-worse-year.aspx" target="_blank">Gallup poll</a>, driven by a plunge in Democrats&#x27; views of the agency. Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CDC" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/05/senate-confirms-cdc-director" data-vars-content-id="7d23377c-2e6e-43ab-a00e-ccb25b540ed6" data-vars-headline="Americans&#x27; opinion of the CDC hits record low" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/05/senate-confirms-cdc-director" target="_self">CDC</a> has been at the center of heated political fights over the last six years, fueling sharp swings in public opinion along partisan lines.

Israeli military conducts massive "power projection" operation near Iran's border

Israeli military conducts "power projection" operation near Iran's border

Some U.S. officials thought it was an attempt to lure Iran into battle.

World

Dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets conducted a sortie on Monday, flying as far as the Iranian border, according to Israeli and U.S. officials. Why it matters: The operation, more than 800 miles away from Israel, took place a week before the Israeli elections and on the same day Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Israel&#x27;s Ovda Air Base. The sortie wasn&#x27;t connected to Hegseth&#x27;s visit. <ul><li>While some Israeli and U.S. officials said the sortie wasn&#x27;t unusual and that it was meant to deter Iran, it could have led to a miscalculation, triggering an Iranian response and reigniting the war.</li></ul>

The oil market's 2027 relief hopes are fading fast

If oil prices stay elevated next year, it could complicate the macroeconomic backdrop for central bankers.

Economy

Traders are betting that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="oil prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/11/bonds-oil-diesel-costs" data-vars-content-id="3e957dfc-8ed2-41ef-83d3-b302e754389c" data-vars-headline="The oil market&#x27;s 2027 relief hopes are fading fast" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/11/bonds-oil-diesel-costs" target="_self">oil prices</a> will remain elevated for longer than they anticipated just weeks ago, threatening to prolong the inflationary pressures that businesses and consumers have weathered for months.Why it matters: Oil inventories have helped cushion the blow from disrupted Middle Eastern supplies, but much of that buffer has been depleted since the war began.<ul><li>The possibility of sustained price pressures into next year throws into doubt the logic that central banks traditionally rely upon to look through energy price shifts — that they represent a one-time shift in relative prices, not an ongoing inflationary process.</li></ul>

Iowa indefinitely delays its new vape registry

The state needs more time to determine which products qualify.

News

Iowa&#x27;s planned crackdown on unauthorized vape products was put on hold Thursday, the day new restrictions were supposed to take effect, with state officials announcing no new implementation date.Why it matters: Iowa vape shops and distributors have won an unexpected reprieve from restrictions that could dramatically shrink the number of products they can sell after years of scrutiny over <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="health risks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/03/13/teens-vaping-nicotine-smoking-study" data-vars-content-id="dd9dc473-e42b-43c9-8061-c1e2b540eefe" data-vars-headline="Iowa indefinitely delays its new vape registry" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/03/13/teens-vaping-nicotine-smoking-study" target="_self">health risks</a> and the proliferation of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unauthorized products" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/13/illegal-vapes-thwart-fda-enforcement" data-vars-content-id="dd9dc473-e42b-43c9-8061-c1e2b540eefe" data-vars-headline="Iowa indefinitely delays its new vape registry" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/10/13/illegal-vapes-thwart-fda-enforcement" target="_self">unauthorized products</a>.

Why Malala Yousafzai, Nick Offerman and Martin Sheen are in Des Moines

The World Food Prize is convening this week in downtown Des Moines.

Malala Yousafzai, Martin Sheen and Nick Offerman are among the high-profile guests in Des Moines this week for the World Food Prize&#x27;s 40th anniversary.Why it matters: For a few days, our unassuming Midwest city becomes a mini &quot;United Nations&quot; where diplomats and celebrities from around the world discuss how to end food insecurity.

Where Rob Sand and Zach Lahn differ on voter priorities

The gubernatorial candidates have different priorities.

Politics

During the first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gubernatorial debate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/05/iowa-governor-debates-sand-lahn-2026" data-vars-content-id="09cd3789-e64c-4921-8f1b-992848c9ae5e" data-vars-headline="Where Rob Sand and Zach Lahn differ on voter priorities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/05/iowa-governor-debates-sand-lahn-2026" target="_self">gubernatorial debate</a> last week, Democrat Rob Sand and Republican Zach Lahn <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shared differing priorities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/iowa-gubernatorial-debate/686200" data-vars-content-id="09cd3789-e64c-4921-8f1b-992848c9ae5e" data-vars-headline="Where Rob Sand and Zach Lahn differ on voter priorities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2026/iowa-gubernatorial-debate/686200" target="_blank">shared differing priorities</a> on several voter issues:💵 Cost of living: Lahn said he would help families lower costs through tax cuts. <ul><li>He supports ending tax breaks for data centers and eliminating property taxes on primary homes. He also wants to help make local businesses more competitive by increasing the state budget for antitrust lawsuits.</li></ul>

Valley Junction's historic past includes "booze orgy," murders

Learn about the historic district's "unique" past during walking tours this month.

Things to Do

The typically quaint Valley Junction neighborhood is unearthing some true tales of its less savory past, including headlines that warned of booze-filled orgies, gambling dens and plenty of murders.Why it matters: The Historic Valley Junction Foundation is sharing these stories during its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mayhem tours" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valley-junction-mayhem-tour-tickets-2002584655613" data-vars-content-id="24240b3f-33cd-438d-b40c-cb5b85f3d3c0" data-vars-headline="Valley Junction&#x27;s historic past includes &quot;booze orgy,&quot; murders" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valley-junction-mayhem-tour-tickets-2002584655613" target="_blank">mayhem tours</a> the next two Saturdays before Halloween.

Sand and Lahn to face off in first of four Iowa gubernatorial debates

Iowa bucks a national trend with four governor debates this fall.

Iowa voters get their first of four chances Tuesday to see Republican Zach Lahn and Democrat Rob Sand debate face-to-face before the Nov. 3 election.Why it matters: Iowa&#x27;s four gubernatorial debates make it a national outlier as face-to-face matchups disappear from competitive races.

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.

Business

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>.

Lefty's music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine

A familiar Drake-area stage gets a new name and new life.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Strychnine Live Music and Drinks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/strychninelivemusic" data-vars-content-id="abaf9d2b-6295-43e9-ab6c-aae71970673f" data-vars-headline="Lefty&#x27;s music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/strychninelivemusic" target="_blank">Strychnine Live Music and Drinks</a> opens Saturday in the former Lefty&#x27;s space near Drake University.Why it matters: Strychnine preserves a small stage for local and emerging acts after Des Moines lost longtime venues including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gas Lamp" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/07/26/soccer-gas-lamp-building-stadium-krause-desmoines" data-vars-content-id="abaf9d2b-6295-43e9-ab6c-aae71970673f" data-vars-headline="Lefty&#x27;s music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/07/26/soccer-gas-lamp-building-stadium-krause-desmoines" target="_self">Gas Lamp</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Vaudeville Mews" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/11/18/des-moines-4th-street-business-closed-pandemic" data-vars-content-id="abaf9d2b-6295-43e9-ab6c-aae71970673f" data-vars-headline="Lefty&#x27;s music venue reopens Saturday as Strychnine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/11/18/des-moines-4th-street-business-closed-pandemic" target="_self">Vaudeville Mews</a> in recent years.

Valley West Mall is finally sold

A lease with JC Penney is holding up redevelopment plans.

After years of delays, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Valley West Mall has finally sold" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/08/15/valley-west-mall-housing-west-desmoines-redevelopment" data-vars-content-id="9e20b598-e699-42eb-8e15-21cb57b61294" data-vars-headline="Valley West Mall is finally sold" 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/valley-west-mall-housing-west-desmoines-redevelopment" target="_self">Valley West Mall has finally sold</a>, though JCPenney&#x27;s longstanding lease could hold up redevelopment.Why it matters: The 58-acre site is in a popular traffic area ripe for commercial and residential development, but the empty, aging mall structure is a major impediment.

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.

Polk County to study deadly intersection near Bondurant

NE 56th Street and NE 94th Avenue was the site of several fatal accidents this year.

After her mother was killed in a crash at a rural Polk County intersection, Hollie Ohrt is pushing for safety changes.Why it matters: Linda Fristoe was the second person killed this year at NE 56th Street and NE 94th Avenue near Bondurant, where four crashes have occurred in five months.

Des Moines gets Kura Revolving Sushi, Mezze Mediterranean restaurant

From a revolving sushi bar to a new casual downtown option, there are plenty of places to eat.

Food and Drink

If you&#x27;re looking to dine somewhere new, several restaurants and shops are opening soon or have already opened their doors.🍣 Kura Revolving Sushi: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="revolving sushi restaurant chain" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/04/conveyor-belt-sushi-opening-at-jordan-creek-town-center" data-vars-content-id="20ce98f6-0360-4203-8b08-1c73449f8161" data-vars-headline="Des Moines gets Kura Revolving Sushi, Mezze Mediterranean restaurant" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/04/conveyor-belt-sushi-opening-at-jordan-creek-town-center" target="_self">revolving sushi restaurant chain</a> is holding its soft opening Thursday.

New frozen cocktail and nacho bar opening in East Village

Narwhal's is opening its first Iowa franchise this year.

Des Moines&#x27; East Village is getting boozy slushies and unconventional nachos this winter.Driving the news: Narwhal&#x27;s Crafted, a St. Louis-based frozen cocktail bar, is opening its first Iowa franchise at 418 E. Grand Ave.

Des Moines explores new "forever chemical" lawsuits

City officials are investigating possible PFAS-related damages and costs.

Des Moines has hired a law firm to explore legal action regarding &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="forever chemicals" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/10/forever-chemicals-drinking-water-epa" data-vars-content-id="775dfe97-e918-4ba9-a87c-0487c48151f7" data-vars-headline="Des Moines explores new &quot;forever chemical&quot; lawsuits" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/10/forever-chemicals-drinking-water-epa" target="_self">forever chemicals</a>&quot; contamination.Why it matters: The synthetic compounds collectively known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread in soil and water and are linked to cancer and other health problems.

"Forever chemicals" found in Iowa fish

A statewide study raises new questions about PFAS monitoring in fish.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="A 2025 study" data-vars-click-url="https://pubs.rsc.org/em/article/27/5/1401/849512/Assessing-microplastics-per-and-polyfluoroalkyl" data-vars-content-id="7ac509a0-4f4b-4e59-8dc9-1faa3e7ceacf" data-vars-headline="&quot;Forever chemicals&quot; found in Iowa fish" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pubs.rsc.org/em/article/27/5/1401/849512/Assessing-microplastics-per-and-polyfluoroalkyl" target="_blank">A 2025 study</a> found PFAS in all 13 fish samples collected from Iowa streams.Why it matters: Iowa doesn&#x27;t routinely test fish for PFAS, while states including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pennsylvania" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/09/forever-chemicals-pfas-wissahickon-creek-philadelphia-montgomery-county" data-vars-content-id="7ac509a0-4f4b-4e59-8dc9-1faa3e7ceacf" data-vars-headline="&quot;Forever chemicals&quot; found in Iowa fish" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/10/09/forever-chemicals-pfas-wissahickon-creek-philadelphia-montgomery-county" target="_self">Pennsylvania</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michigan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse/about/news/2025/09/10/do-not-eat" data-vars-content-id="7ac509a0-4f4b-4e59-8dc9-1faa3e7ceacf" data-vars-headline="&quot;Forever chemicals&quot; found in Iowa fish" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse/about/news/2025/09/10/do-not-eat" target="_blank">Michigan</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wisconsin" data-vars-click-url="https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/113566" data-vars-content-id="7ac509a0-4f4b-4e59-8dc9-1faa3e7ceacf" data-vars-headline="&quot;Forever chemicals&quot; found in Iowa fish" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/113566" target="_blank">Wisconsin</a> have issued &quot;do not eat&quot; advisories after finding high levels in fish.

Iowa's early voting starts Wednesday

Cancer, the cost of living and tariffs are among the issues on voters' minds.

Iowans can begin voting Wednesday in an election that could reshape state government and help decide which party controls Congress.Why it matters: Iowa is once again a battleground, with competitive races for governor and the U.S. Senate and House — and several issues that could determine how voters break.

DSM celebrity baker Andrew Fuller is reaching new heights

This is Andrew Fuller's era — and not just because he's Halloween-maxxing 24/7.

Culture

This is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Andrew Fuller&#x27;s era" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2022/09/12/andrew-fuller-is-it-cake-des-moines" data-vars-content-id="3930a385-9704-41af-aaad-7c2e7262a28a" data-vars-headline="DSM celebrity baker Andrew Fuller is reaching new heights" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2022/09/12/andrew-fuller-is-it-cake-des-moines" target="_self">Andrew Fuller&#x27;s era</a> — and not just because he&#x27;s Halloween-maxxing 24/7.Why it matters: The Des Moines celebrity baker is blowing up with appearances on two Food Network shows this fall and serving as living proof that if you&#x27;re authentically yourself, good things happen.

Deputy administrator lawsuit dismissed after costing Polk county $1.54M

The case brought political fallout and years of conflict.

A judge this week dismissed the remaining lawsuit by Polk County <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deputy administrator Sarah Boese" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/07/28/polk-county-lawsuits-boese-administrator-mccoy" data-vars-content-id="a338a6fa-82ac-401b-8aa8-59d1da332e6d" data-vars-headline="Deputy administrator lawsuit dismissed after costing Polk county $1.54M" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/07/28/polk-county-lawsuits-boese-administrator-mccoy" target="_self">deputy administrator Sarah Boese</a> against the county and three supervisors.Why it matters: Boese&#x27;s cases were part of a string of litigation involving county officials — including former HR director Jim Nahas&#x27; wrongful termination case — that generated millions in settlements and legal costs.

Des Moines weekend plans Oct. 16-18

The Iowa Home Expo, Capital City Gaming Con and Buccaneers hockey.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🏡 Iowa Home Expo | Explore home improvement ideas and meet local contractors and designers. | Noon-6pm, also open through the weekend | Iowa State Fairgrounds | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-iowa-home-expo-october-2026-tickets-1985320136973" data-vars-content-id="b00d0db6-e32f-45be-aac6-c0c198b88be6" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans Oct. 16-18" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-iowa-home-expo-october-2026-tickets-1985320136973" target="_blank">Free!</a>

Central Iowa's peak fall colors are on the way 

Expect that kaleidoscope of colors by mid-October.

Leaf-peepers, gird your loins: Fall colors are creeping into central Iowa. The intrigue: We&#x27;re expected to hit peak fall colors in central Iowa around the end of this week.<ul><li>And the trees that have already turned have good color, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. (Thanks, rain?)</li></ul>

Des Moines weekend plans: Oct. 9-11

From a vintage festival to a doggy costume party, there's plenty to do this weekend.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🪦 Jordan Cemetery Tour | Explore local history with costumed reenactments, a headstone restoration demonstration and a presentation on cemetery symbolism. | 9am–12pm | 2001 Fuller Rd., West Des Moines | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Admission: $25" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wdmhs.org/historic-cemetery-tour/" data-vars-content-id="70b5a46c-8c49-4e1d-9972-07737a3545c9" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans: Oct. 9-11" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wdmhs.org/historic-cemetery-tour/" target="_blank">Admission: $25</a>

Bread and Puppet show coming to Des Moines

The touring political puppet show will be at Riverview Park.

Bread and Puppet — a political, non-profit theater company — is bringing its touring show of colorful puppets, brass music and pointed current events to Des Moines.Driving the news: The Vermont-based puppeteering group is performing at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Riverview Park" data-vars-click-url="https://breadandpuppet.org/tour#DesMoines" data-vars-content-id="13576b96-5f46-42bc-9832-f4df6602cb7e" data-vars-headline="Bread and Puppet show coming to Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://breadandpuppet.org/tour#DesMoines" target="_blank">Riverview Park</a> on Wednesday at 7pm.

For 5 Borough Bagels owner, music is expression of trauma

Toney Chem, co-owner of 5 Borough Bagels, expresses his hardships through music.

Toney Chem has been rehearsing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="for his biggest music set" data-vars-click-url="https://toneychem.com/" data-vars-content-id="074853dc-8f15-4c63-a2be-7bfd5b91a70e" data-vars-headline="For 5 Borough Bagels owner, music is expression of trauma" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://toneychem.com/" target="_blank">for his biggest music set</a> yet in an unlikely place: his car.<ul><li>He&#x27;s been practicing while driving back and forth to visit his wife, Sarah, who&#x27;s spent the past month hospitalized with a severe lung infection and plans to watch his Panda Fest performance over FaceTime.</li></ul>

First bite: Bali Bulay brings Indonesian food to Des Moines

Bali Bulay turns years of pop-ups into a permanent lunch spot.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bali Bulay Indonesian Satay" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/balibulay" data-vars-content-id="353aa5d8-6076-4117-b539-94aba6281f02" data-vars-headline="First bite: Bali Bulay brings Indonesian food to Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/balibulay" target="_blank">Bali Bulay Indonesian Satay</a> has opened a permanent downtown Des Moines home.Why it matters: The restaurant gives the metro something new: Father-son owners Franklin and Kaleb Creighton Crum say it&#x27;s Iowa&#x27;s first Indonesian restaurant.

We tried AE's new Scotcheroo milk

The new chocolate milk flavor is good on its own or with some baileys.

👋 Jason here: I tried AE Dairy&#x27;s new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scotcheroo milk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/AEDairy/posts/-new-scotcheroo-milk-quite-possibly-the-most-midwest-milk-ever-no-cooking-no-wai/1547045627454772/" data-vars-content-id="8c6ddf1b-b76c-4609-9f93-f48100928e5c" data-vars-headline="We tried AE&#x27;s new Scotcheroo milk" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/AEDairy/posts/-new-scotcheroo-milk-quite-possibly-the-most-midwest-milk-ever-no-cooking-no-wai/1547045627454772/" target="_blank">Scotcheroo milk</a> this week.State of play: It tastes so much like the real treat that I&#x27;m convinced someone liquefied an entire pan of bars I remember as a kid.

First bite: After flood, LUX Waukee reopens

The restaurant flooded last week and has now reopened.

The recently opened <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LUX Asian Restaurant and Bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/p/LUX-Waukee-61589835900324/" data-vars-content-id="96ceeddf-2250-4b45-bdaf-aba0c9e05061" data-vars-headline="First bite: After flood, LUX Waukee reopens" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/LUX-Waukee-61589835900324/" target="_blank">LUX Asian Restaurant and Bar</a> is bringing Asian fare and a swanky cocktail-bar vibe to Waukee.Why it matters: It gives the Grand Prairie Parkway corridor another destination as restaurants and retail follow Waukee&#x27;s rapid growth.

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Des Moines

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="65ad868d-e4c0-4503-86ec-ebf96b0e6d9e" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Des Moines" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner in Des Moines&#x27; East Village neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

Jay Wang plans Wasabi's next chapter

The restaurant owner is celebrating 15 years of business in Des Moines.

When Jay Wang decided to open his first Wasabi restaurant in Des Moines, the Chinese immigrant and former New Yorker had no clue what the reception would be.Why it matters: Now, he is celebrating 15 years in the business, and after years of expanding, he wants to consolidate and train the next generation of restaurant owners who want to take up the mantle.

1 sweet thing to go: 9 to 5 cake

Proceeds will benefit Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bubba" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bubbadsm.com/" data-vars-content-id="ff031497-e486-488e-944f-3c4c07d49ae4" data-vars-headline="1 sweet thing to go: 9 to 5 cake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bubbadsm.com/" target="_blank">Bubba</a> is celebrating <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="9 to 5 Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/09/17/nashville-dolly-day-9-25" data-vars-content-id="ff031497-e486-488e-944f-3c4c07d49ae4" data-vars-headline="1 sweet thing to go: 9 to 5 cake" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/09/17/nashville-dolly-day-9-25" target="_self">9 to 5 Day</a> (aka 9/25) with a dessert that was served by Dolly Parton&#x27;s character in &quot;Steel Magnolias.&quot;

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