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Trump open to summit with Xi and Putin — to discuss denuclearization

World

President Trump wants to hold a trilateral summit with Chinese President Xi and Russian President Putin in China next month to discuss &quot;denuclearization&quot; — but not necessarily Ukraine.Why it matters: Such a summit between the leaders of the U.S., China and Russia would be unprecedented.

Exclusive: Secret pay-for-play text rocks Trump White House

The text is a key piece of evidence in the White House's probe of a missing Kennedy Center donation.

Politics & Policy

Top Trump adviser Ric Grenell allegedly outlined a stunning <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pay-for-influence offer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/trump-kennedy-center-donation-maga-feud" data-vars-content-id="849a68ac-67da-4a2d-8455-36a84b21c661" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Secret pay-for-play text rocks Trump White House" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/trump-kennedy-center-donation-maga-feud" target="_self">pay-for-influence offer</a> to a Turkish billionaire last year: access to &quot;POTUS,&quot; &quot;VIP events&quot; and administration officials, according to a text message, reviewed by Axios, that the White House counsel is investigating.<ul><li>&quot;Once the money comes to the company here, I will arrange the donation to Kennedy Centre [sic], and you&#x27;ll be joining the VIP events and get close with the administration, even with POTUS,&quot; the May 3, 2025, text says.</li><li>Grenell has called the accusations &quot;lies&quot; and denied sending the text message.</li></ul>Why it matters: Administration officials say the text is a key piece of evidence in the White House&#x27;s investigation — ordered by President Trump — into whether Grenell abused the president&#x27;s trust and misappropriated a potential multimillion-dollar donation to the Kennedy Center, which Grenell led at the time.

Zelensky lobbies senators to press White House on alleged intel and weapons curbs

The Ukrainian president turns to allies in Congress as Trump sides with Putin on key issues.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday lobbied a bipartisan group of senators to press the Trump administration to remove what he claimed are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="restrictions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" data-vars-content-id="6ef055f8-0a9b-49fe-99d3-155049281125" data-vars-headline="Zelensky lobbies senators to press White House on alleged intel and weapons curbs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" target="_self">restrictions</a> on intelligence sharing and weapons supplies.Why it matters: Ukrainian officials say the Trump administration has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="quietly imposed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" data-vars-content-id="6ef055f8-0a9b-49fe-99d3-155049281125" data-vars-headline="Zelensky lobbies senators to press White House on alleged intel and weapons curbs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/14/ukraine-starlink-zelensky-spacex-musk-trump" target="_self">quietly imposed</a> these limits without admitting it publicly in an attempt to press Zelensky to accept a deal to end the war that includes more concessions to Russia.

Violence, looting, arson: France faces an ominous doom loop

Violent weekend outbursts in France drove a new surge in French borrowing costs.

Economy

This weekend brought violence in the streets of France. Monday brought violence in its bond market. And therein lies a warning for other rich countries staring at big fiscal imbalances.Driving the news: There were outbursts of violence and looting in several French cities, following demonstrations over school quality and cost of living. They included rioters setting fire to the city hall in Limoges.

Democrats' long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost

One donor is testing whether buying cheap TV time in races the party has been slow to fund can stretch a Democratic wave.

Steve Pajcic, the 80-year-old Florida attorney funding a surprise $7 million Democratic ad blitz in four <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="red-state Senate races" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/13/2028-map-swing-states-democrats-red-conservatives" data-vars-content-id="386fc6b4-47a1-478b-aa34-4d0a37aa6d93" data-vars-headline="Democrats&#x27; long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/13/2028-map-swing-states-democrats-red-conservatives" target="_self">red-state Senate races</a>, tells Axios his family could double that and expand into more long-shot states.Why it matters: Pajcic is testing whether <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="buying" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/republicans-democrats-senate-campaign-ad-spending-impressions" data-vars-content-id="386fc6b4-47a1-478b-aa34-4d0a37aa6d93" data-vars-headline="Democrats&#x27; long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/21/republicans-democrats-senate-campaign-ad-spending-impressions" target="_self">buying</a> cheap TV time in races the party has been slow to fund can stretch a Democratic wave to places it hasn&#x27;t won <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in decades" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/democrat-2026-republican-winning-streak-kansas" data-vars-content-id="386fc6b4-47a1-478b-aa34-4d0a37aa6d93" data-vars-headline="Democrats&#x27; long-shot Senate races get a multimillion-dollar boost" 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">in decades</a>.<ul><li>He says his party is &quot;too cautious&quot; and aiming too low, both in the seats it&#x27;s pursuing and what it hopes to accomplish in power.</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>.

A more effective flu vaccine is available in Des Moines

The mRNA flu vaccine is available for Iowans 50 and older.

Health

Flu season has arrived early this year, and there&#x27;s a new, more effective vaccine option for Iowans 50 and older.Why it matters: Influenza is most serious for more vulnerable populations, including older people, children and infants.

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.

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.

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>

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.

Iowa is losing updates on Latino population, economic data

The Iowa Latinx Project has collected nuanced and unique information on the state's Latino population.

A years-long project tracking <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iowa&#x27;s Latino population" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/10/03/iowa-latino-census-growth-population-workforce" data-vars-content-id="c143c925-0026-4a58-8860-950052d79632" data-vars-headline="Iowa is losing updates on Latino population, economic data" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/10/03/iowa-latino-census-growth-population-workforce" target="_self">Iowa&#x27;s Latino population</a> is winding down and transitioning into its next phase after losing its primary funding.Why it matters: Without detailed data showing how policies affect Latinos, Iowa&#x27;s fastest-growing population risks being left out of key policy decisions, says Iowa Latinx Project coordinator Dawn Martinez Oropeza.

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>

Things to do in Des Moines: Oct. 2-4

From an Asian food festival to free live music, the metro has plenty to do this October weekend.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🐼 Pandafest | A three-day Asian food and culture festival featuring street foods, cultural performances and panda-themed activities. | Outlets of Des Moines | Starts Friday at 4pm and goes through Sunday | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets: $18" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pandafests.com/pandafestevents/iowa2026" data-vars-content-id="55f33739-135c-4ba4-89fd-3f6e25ad353b" data-vars-headline="Things to do in Des Moines: Oct. 2-4" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pandafests.com/pandafestevents/iowa2026" target="_blank">Tickets: $18</a>

Iowa startups explore better ag tech and bioplastics

It&#x27;s the first-ever <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iowa Startup Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.iowastartupweek.com/" data-vars-content-id="42508033-dba8-45fa-ac60-ca7777310eac" data-vars-headline="Iowa startups explore better ag tech and bioplastics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.iowastartupweek.com/" target="_blank">Iowa Startup Week</a>, and entrepreneurs from across the country are here for several days of pitches and networking.Driving the news: We chatted with two Iowa startups, one in turkey barns and the other in plastics manufacturing, to learn more about their innovations.

First bite: Bali Bulay brings Indonesian food to Des Moines

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

Food and Drink

<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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