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National

Jensen Huang's implosion leaves trail of collateral damage

Jensen Huang's self-destruction threatens to ensnare the board of Nvidia and the AI sector itself.

Business

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jensen Huang&#x27;s self-destruction" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/12/nvidia-jensen-huang-out" data-vars-content-id="3f9b5949-02f7-4ffc-a1fa-7beabfb9ed57" data-vars-headline="Jensen Huang&#x27;s implosion leaves trail of collateral damage" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/12/nvidia-jensen-huang-out" target="_self">Jensen Huang&#x27;s self-destruction</a> has left a trail of collateral damage that threatens to ensnare the board of Nvidia and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the AI boom itself" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/09/nvidia-key-man-risk-huang" data-vars-content-id="3f9b5949-02f7-4ffc-a1fa-7beabfb9ed57" data-vars-headline="Jensen Huang&#x27;s implosion leaves trail of collateral damage" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/09/nvidia-key-man-risk-huang" target="_self">the AI boom itself</a>.Why it matters: Huang was a singular leader in the global economy, capable of exciting or calming markets with a single sentence and viewed as a virtually indestructible force behind Nvidia&#x27;s rise.

Scott Colom's win in Mississippi puts political change to the test

Colom's victory offers a blueprint — and a reality check.

Politics & Policy

Mississippi, a state with the largest share of Black residents in the country, has elected its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="first Black U.S. senator" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/12/scott-colom-mississippi-delta-civil-rights-till" data-vars-content-id="b077b0b7-3584-4162-a18e-4b55c3ab277e" data-vars-headline="Scott Colom&#x27;s win in Mississippi puts political change to the test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/12/scott-colom-mississippi-delta-civil-rights-till" target="_self">first Black U.S. senator</a> in nearly 150 years.Why it matters: For generations, Black Mississippians left the state to escape Jim Crow and pursue economic and political opportunities elsewhere.<ul><li>Now, Mississippi faces a new question: Was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scott Colom&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/11/mississippi-ms-senate-scott-colom-cindy-hyde-smith" data-vars-content-id="b077b0b7-3584-4162-a18e-4b55c3ab277e" data-vars-headline="Scott Colom&#x27;s win in Mississippi puts political change to the test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/11/mississippi-ms-senate-scott-colom-cindy-hyde-smith" target="_self">Scott Colom&#x27;s</a> victory a once-in-a-generation breakthrough, or the beginning of an era of Black political power?</li></ul>

Scoop: Meet the new GOP team plotting a Senate comeback

Moreno is bringing in top GOP brass to assess what went wrong and map a 2028 comeback.

Newly minted NRSC Chair Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) is stacking a team to claw back Senate seats for Republicans in 2028, Axios has learned.Why it matters: Moreno has the unenviable job of chipping away at a healthy Democratic majority in just two years, with an unhelpful map, an unpopular war and an unpredictable boss in the White House.

Super-low jobless claims expected to continue

Federal Reserve officials have pointed to the low jobless claims as evidence of a relatively strong job market.

Economy

The pace of layoffs has been historically low — and the latest data on weekly jobless claims points to the pattern continuing.Driving the news: Only 200,000 people filed new claims for unemployment benefits last week.<ul><li>That was the ninth consecutive week of claims being at or below 200,000, the first time that has happened in a data series that dates to 1967.</li></ul>

Zelensky says Musk-owned satellite system throttled again, Space X denies it

The slowdown happened as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

World

The Ukrainian government has asked the Pentagon and SpaceX to explain new restrictions it says are disrupting the satellite system its military uses to intercept Russian drones. Why it matters: This is the second time in recent weeks that Ukraine reported that Starshield, made by Elon Musk&#x27;s SpaceX, was impeded. <ul><li>The Ukrainian military uses Starshield — the military version of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="SpaceX&#x27;s Starlink" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/10/14/elon-musk-spacex-starlink-ukraine-internet-russia" data-vars-content-id="e44e3e70-9bd4-4743-8f87-b754ae03fbdd" data-vars-headline="Zelensky says Musk-owned satellite system throttled again, Space X denies it" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/10/14/elon-musk-spacex-starlink-ukraine-internet-russia" target="_self">SpaceX&#x27;s Starlink</a> satellite communications system — to control and operate its reconnaissance and to intercept drones.</li></ul>The other side: SpaceX respond Axios: &quot;This is false. There has been no change.&quot;Driving the news: Ukrainian President Zelensky said Thursday he was briefed by the minister of defense and the commander of the Ukrainian military that &quot;units have been recording significant disruptions to Starshield&#x27;s operations&quot; along the entire front line and in the parts of Ukraine occupied by Russia. <ul><li>&quot;The Ukrainian military have already investigated the circumstances, and these are not random errors but systematic speed restrictions,&quot; he wrote on X. &quot;We are trying to establish all the circumstances with the American side.&quot;</li></ul>Zoom in: A Ukrainian official said the restrictions have been happening for three days. <ul><li>&quot;On the first day there were 10% limitations, on the second day 50%, and today 100% of the missions fail because of restrictions,&quot; the official said. </li><li>Ukraine&#x27;s charge d&#x27;affaires to the U.S., Denys Sienik, said the Starshield system shuts down when drones fly at more than 100 miles per hour. </li><li>&quot;We don&#x27;t have clarification from SpaceX or Pentagon at the moment,&quot; he said. </li></ul>State of play: Zelensky said the new restrictions began shortly before President Trump&#x27;s envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met at the Kremlin with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday. <ul><li>Kushner and Witkoff are expected to meet Zelensky later on Thursday in Dublin. </li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: The bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus said in a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="statement" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/UkraineCaucus/status/2120904083963888042/photo/1" data-vars-content-id="e44e3e70-9bd4-4743-8f87-b754ae03fbdd" data-vars-headline="Zelensky says Musk-owned satellite system throttled again, Space X denies it" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/UkraineCaucus/status/2120904083963888042/photo/1" target="_blank">statement</a> that it was &quot;extremely alarmed&quot; by the reports of a Starshield slowdown and &quot;demanding a full accounting&quot; from the Trump administration and SpaceX.Catch up quick: Ukraine relies on two SpaceX satellite services. Starlink, the commercial service, supports battlefield communications and logistics.<ul><li>Starshield is designed for government and military customers. Ukraine accesses it through a U.S. government agreement and uses it to operate reconnaissance drones and intercept Russian attack drones.</li><li>The Defense Department and SpaceX did not immediately return requests for comment.</li></ul>

Rob Sand says he'll work to end privatized Medicaid on Day 1

The state's Medicaid program has been run by private agencies for the last 10 years.

Health

Iowa Gov.-elect Rob Sand says he&#x27;ll begin the process of ending Iowa&#x27;s decade-old Medicaid privatization system on his first day in office, but the transition won&#x27;t happen overnight.Why it matters: The end of privatized Medicaid would be one of the most dramatic changes to Iowa&#x27;s health care systems in 10 years, but Sand has criticized the program, saying it prioritizes profits over patients.

Polk County restores 11 streams in $17M water quality push

Construction costs are down $4 million as crews wrap up major work.

News

A $17 million project to repair stream erosion is nearing completion in Polk County.Why it matters: The investment could serve as a blueprint for the rest of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the state&#x27;s waterways" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/01/10/iowa-water-quality-rivers-streams" data-vars-content-id="c30d0703-55ba-4d3f-8909-cec28e316123" data-vars-headline="Polk County restores 11 streams in $17M water quality push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2023/01/10/iowa-water-quality-rivers-streams" target="_self">the state&#x27;s waterways</a> if researchers can demonstrate measurable water quality improvements.

West Des Moines housing development could bring 2,200 homes

The joint project will offer a range of housing.

Development

A new housing development could bring 2,200 homes to the western side of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="West Des Moines" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/11/09/dallas-county-democrat-republican-dominance" data-vars-content-id="d46e2a1c-c695-4a6e-ad7a-d8eefaaf46cd" data-vars-headline="West Des Moines housing development could bring 2,200 homes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/11/09/dallas-county-democrat-republican-dominance" target="_self">West Des Moines</a>.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Trail West project" data-vars-click-url="https://jerryshomes.com/communities/des-moines-area/west-des-moines/trail-west" data-vars-content-id="d46e2a1c-c695-4a6e-ad7a-d8eefaaf46cd" data-vars-headline="West Des Moines housing development could bring 2,200 homes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://jerryshomes.com/communities/des-moines-area/west-des-moines/trail-west" target="_blank">The Trail West project</a> will bring more housing and pricing options to the growing western suburbs.

Iowa's fastest-growing county flips blue after GOP dominance

The reliably red county swung left in the 2026 midterm election.

Politics

Dallas County, the Midwest&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fastest-growing county" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/DallasCountyIA/posts/new-us-census-bureau-data-shows-dallas-county-is-now-the-fastestgrowing-county-i/1367614628742578/" data-vars-content-id="08fe2cd6-f53f-4a37-912e-3f5a124b5452" data-vars-headline="Iowa&#x27;s fastest-growing county flips blue after GOP dominance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/DallasCountyIA/posts/new-us-census-bureau-data-shows-dallas-county-is-now-the-fastestgrowing-county-i/1367614628742578/" target="_blank">fastest-growing county</a>, swung left in the midterms, breaking a decades-long Republican voting streak in gubernatorial and congressional elections since 2008.Why it matters: The booming Des Moines metro county is adding thousands of voters annually to its suburbs, making its changing political makeup increasingly important to candidates.

Trump won these Iowa counties. Rob Sand did, too.

President Trump tried to win over several eastern Iowa counties, but they didn't go all Republican.

Iowa isn&#x27;t red, blue or even purple but more historically a swing state, says University of Northern Iowa political science professor Donna Hoffman. Why it matters: The midterm election results underscore Iowa&#x27;s unpredictable voting patterns, with some counties backing Democrats in statewide races while supporting Republicans in federal elections.

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>.

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.

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.

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.

From vintage shopping to gay prom, here are your Des Moines weekend plans

There's plenty of local shopping and vintage to sift for the holidays.

Things to Do

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🪑 Junk Jubilee Fall Market | Hunt for antiques and architectural salvage from Midwest vendors. | 10am–7pm, also open Saturday | Iowa State Fairgrounds | Admission: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$10" data-vars-click-url="https://www.junkjubilee.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="da10ca46-a0ea-4830-95e3-1e0bdaae2e67" data-vars-headline="From vintage shopping to gay prom, here are your Des Moines weekend plans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.junkjubilee.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">$10</a> in cash

The internet is freaking out over Rob Sand's modeling career

Iowa Gov.-elect is catching national attention for his college job.

During the campaign season, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Republicans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DfQ7h33jEBY/" data-vars-content-id="25a72bbf-c1e9-4292-942a-ff845e7bc11a" data-vars-headline="The internet is freaking out over Rob Sand&#x27;s modeling career" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DfQ7h33jEBY/" target="_blank">Republicans</a> used Iowa Gov.-elect Rob Sand&#x27;s former modeling career to question his electability.<ul><li>Now? There are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="viral TikToks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tiktok.com/@nssmagazine/video/7704789528837508385" data-vars-content-id="25a72bbf-c1e9-4292-942a-ff845e7bc11a" data-vars-headline="The internet is freaking out over Rob Sand&#x27;s modeling career" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@nssmagazine/video/7704789528837508385" target="_blank">viral TikToks</a>, T-shirts and even <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sand acknowledging his past on the runway" data-vars-click-url="https://store.robsand.com/products/my-model-governor-t-shirt" data-vars-content-id="25a72bbf-c1e9-4292-942a-ff845e7bc11a" data-vars-headline="The internet is freaking out over Rob Sand&#x27;s modeling career" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://store.robsand.com/products/my-model-governor-t-shirt" target="_blank">Sand acknowledging his past on the runway</a>.</li></ul>

West Des Moines office park could become a neighborhood

A sprawling West Des Moines office park that once housed some of the metro&#x27;s prominent companies could be transformed into apartments, shops and a hotel.Why it matters: Regency West is a mostly vacant, dated office park in a prominent spot next to Interstate 235.

Josh Turek flips control of Senate with Iowa upset

Turek gives Democrats their first Iowa Senate victory since 2008 in a major political breakthrough.

Democratic state Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Josh Turek" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/iowa-early-voting-elections-2026-midterms?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="b1eb6363-e2f5-46b5-b506-056120fa7e24" data-vars-headline="Josh Turek flips control of Senate with Iowa upset" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/10/14/iowa-early-voting-elections-2026-midterms?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_self">Josh Turek</a> defeated Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson in a major upset Tuesday, becoming the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate from Iowa since 2008, the AP projected. Why it matters: Turek&#x27;s victory delivers Democrats control of the Senate — and signals a political backlash against Republicans in a state Trump won comfortably just two years ago.

Democrats retain control of Polk County Board of Supervisors

Democrat Heather Jones-Brown defeated Republican Alyson DeMoss.

Election

Democrats retained control of the Polk County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, holding off a Republican bid to flip the longtime Democratic stronghold.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democrats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/06/03/matt-mccoy-supervisors-primary-john-forbes" data-vars-content-id="2c735fb9-bb5f-466f-a586-f30cb3c01509" data-vars-headline="Democrats retain control of Polk County Board of Supervisors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/06/03/matt-mccoy-supervisors-primary-john-forbes" target="_self">Democrats</a> will continue to control county budget priorities, property taxes and policies affecting public health, roads and other services.

Why an Iowa woman's final vote won't count

An unexpected death raises questions about a little-known election law.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pauline &quot;Kay&quot; Myers" data-vars-click-url="https://ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/pauline-kay-myers/" data-vars-content-id="120f61d9-b38a-42de-8fad-4ec79f37a014" data-vars-headline="Why an Iowa woman&#x27;s final vote won&#x27;t count" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/pauline-kay-myers/" target="_blank">Pauline &quot;Kay&quot; Myers</a>, 90, proudly cast her ballot alongside her son, Bruce. She died hours later, and now her vote won&#x27;t count under Iowa law.The big picture: Her story highlights a little-known Iowa law that can disqualify ballots legally cast by voters who die before Election Day.

New film celebrates Iowa legend Jay N. Darling

Free screenings Wednesday spotlight the Pulitzer-winning Iowan.

A new documentary celebrating the 150th birthday of legendary Des Moines cartoonist and conservationist Jay N. &quot;Ding&quot; Darling premieres Wednesday.Why it matters: The film introduces a new generation to an Iowa icon who helped transform wildlife conservation in America.

Two worthy Halloween stops: Sherman Hill and Park Avenue

Both events welcome donations to charities.

A spectacular Halloween display spanning multiple homes is free to visit in the 100 block of East Park Avenue in Des Moines.Zoom in: Organizers encourage visitors and welcome donations for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Skeletons for St. Jude" data-vars-click-url="https://skeletonsforhope.org/" data-vars-content-id="5fa21c74-eff3-46f1-86cb-82655a2d5cdf" data-vars-headline="Two worthy Halloween stops: Sherman Hill and Park Avenue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://skeletonsforhope.org/" target="_blank">Skeletons for St. Jude</a> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Brain Tumor Society" data-vars-click-url="https://braintumor.org/" data-vars-content-id="5fa21c74-eff3-46f1-86cb-82655a2d5cdf" data-vars-headline="Two worthy Halloween stops: Sherman Hill and Park Avenue" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://braintumor.org/" target="_blank">National Brain Tumor Society</a>.

Des Moines weekend plans, Nov. 6-8

From Drake basketball to holiday shopping, there's plenty to do this weekend.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🛍️ Des Moines Holiday Boutique | Kick off holiday shopping with seasonal gifts, plus an appearance by Hallmark star Tyler Hynes. | 10am–9pm, also open Saturday and Sunday | EMC Expo Center | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$15" data-vars-click-url="https://www.desmoinesholidayboutique.com/attendee-info/show-info?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="998b1567-78d6-495a-95c5-769d3118b5ea" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans, Nov. 6-8" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.desmoinesholidayboutique.com/attendee-info/show-info?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">$15</a>

Des Moines weekend plans from Oct. 30-Nov. 1

From a spooky concert to a beggars' night tradition, there's plenty to do this weekend.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>🎃 Beggars&#x27; Night | Dress up the kids and trick-or-treat along Ingersoll Avenue, where more than 40 local restaurants and businesses will hand out candy and treats. | 4:30–6:30pm | Ingersoll Avenue | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.theavenuesdsm.com/beggars-night-on-ingersoll-avenue-halloween-trick-or-treat/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="c397814e-aefc-4f59-b098-fb7fe610ef61" data-vars-headline="Des Moines weekend plans from Oct. 30-Nov. 1" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.theavenuesdsm.com/beggars-night-on-ingersoll-avenue-halloween-trick-or-treat/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Free!</a>

Try these Des Moines-specific Halloween costumes this year

From a kid on an e-moto to the AE Dairy cows, there's plenty of choices.

If you haven&#x27;t planned your Halloween costume yet, maybe these hyper-local options will give you some inspiration.<ul><li>From kids on e-motos to the most in-demand person this year (the Culligan man), there&#x27;s plenty to poke fun at this year.</li></ul>

Go thrifting, dress up for an ACOTAR party this weekend

There's plenty of spooky Halloween events to do this weekend in Des Moines.

<h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Friday</h2>👗 Consignment fall pop-up | Shop more than 100 closets of gently used clothing, shoes and accessories at 50–80% off retail prices. | 10am–8pm, also open Saturday and Sunday | Iowa State Fairgrounds | <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Free!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tickettailor.com/events/statemintwestdesmoines/2189953?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="a921dea2-140e-41f8-afa6-9d11291add5a" data-vars-headline="Go thrifting, dress up for an ACOTAR party this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tickettailor.com/events/statemintwestdesmoines/2189953?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Free!</a>

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>

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

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

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.

First bite: East Meets West

A married couple brings flavors inspired by China to Beaverdale.

Food and Drink

👋 Jason here: I was excited when I found out the former Motley School Tavern (MST) space in Beaverdale is now a new Asian-American restaurant.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="East Meets West Kitchen &amp; Bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eastmeetswestdsm.com/" data-vars-content-id="b37535b7-6c65-4678-bfdb-ea6403b7c3e1" data-vars-headline="First bite: East Meets West" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eastmeetswestdsm.com/" target="_blank">East Meets West Kitchen &amp; Bar</a> opened last week.

Des Moines pizza: This pizza is cheese upon cheese

The burrata pizza at Hugo's puts all kinds of mozzarella on a slice.

We&#x27;re familiar with the stretchy, milky center of a burrata ball for our salads or charcuterie, but Hugo&#x27;s in the Drake neighborhood puts it to the ultimate test by putting it on its pizza.What it is: Prosciutto Burrata pizza ($20) with a red sauce, shredded mozzarella, prosciutto, basil leaf, sea salt and a warm burrata ball.

These Des Moines sandwiches regularly sell out

The Good Butcher serves a different sandwich every Tuesday.

From melty cheesesteaks to fat-stacked Reubens, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Good Butcher" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/07/30/good-butcher-specialty-shop-desmoines-sherman-hill" data-vars-content-id="32334ca2-26c6-43fe-b67c-bfed56a18f0c" data-vars-headline="These Des Moines sandwiches regularly sell out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/07/30/good-butcher-specialty-shop-desmoines-sherman-hill" target="_self">The Good Butcher</a>, off Ingersoll, is regularly selling out of its weekly Sandwich Tuesday specials.Why it matters: Food is fun, and these creative sandwiches get the shop&#x27;s chefs to think outside of the box while also using locally sourced meats.

A coffee shop and drive-thru are open in Cumming

The new coffee shop is owned by a local family.

Roosters Coffee, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a new coffee shop with a drive-thru" data-vars-click-url="https://roosters-coffee.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawVMjSlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMW5VYzdaQms5RVl4a01yODZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeAOV8jEgm1NbxuPSEVZtXE1_Ff3VEduM2e_8PzhKdA0EIIvZgJsptLoFDv6Q_aem_l4-7q3z-y3kGA8vHmueijw" data-vars-content-id="245d7ec1-4aa1-430b-9346-6193fbdf7dff" data-vars-headline="A coffee shop and drive-thru are open in Cumming" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://roosters-coffee.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawVMjSlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMW5VYzdaQms5RVl4a01yODZzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeAOV8jEgm1NbxuPSEVZtXE1_Ff3VEduM2e_8PzhKdA0EIIvZgJsptLoFDv6Q_aem_l4-7q3z-y3kGA8vHmueijw" target="_blank">a new coffee shop with a drive-thru</a>, has opened in Cumming.How it started: Owner Haley Gremler grew up in town and recently graduated from Iowa State after studying business management. Her father, Mark Gremler, owned land along G-14 and North 43rd Street, and her family decided to build the farmhouse-themed coffee shop.

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.

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.

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