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The DCCC's unusual new target: Democratic candidates

The DCCC has spent around $175,000 playing in contested Democratic primaries.

Politics & Policy

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="DCCC" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/04/democrats-dccc-house-elections-2026-california" data-vars-content-id="1c26f4f9-56d7-484a-9bcc-cc06f10c5096" data-vars-headline="The DCCC&#x27;s unusual new target: Democratic candidates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/04/democrats-dccc-house-elections-2026-california" target="_self">DCCC</a>) is employing an unusual tactic to blunt what it says is Republican meddling in its primaries:<ul><li>It has teamed up with the candidates it sees as the &quot;strongest&quot; in key battleground districts, launching joint ad buys to squeeze out its Democratic primary opponents.</li></ul>Why it matters: This practice has infuriated parts of the party, particularly the progressive wing.

Florida congressional map survives first court test

Control of the U.S. House could turn on seats manufactured in state capitals.

A Florida judge kept Gov. Ron DeSantis&#x27; new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/27/desantis-florida-map-gerrymandering-redistricting-war" data-vars-content-id="89877a23-2724-4066-9804-2fed7b47426b" data-vars-headline="Florida congressional map survives first court test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/27/desantis-florida-map-gerrymandering-redistricting-war" target="_self">congressional map</a> alive Tuesday, allowing the state to implement a Republican-friendly plan while three state lawsuits continue.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="national redistricting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/22/trump-redistricting-war-backfiring-virginia-gop" data-vars-content-id="89877a23-2724-4066-9804-2fed7b47426b" data-vars-headline="Florida congressional map survives first court test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/22/trump-redistricting-war-backfiring-virginia-gop" target="_self">national redistricting</a> fight is a race to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pre-write" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/14/democrats-south-2026-midterms-redistricting" data-vars-content-id="89877a23-2724-4066-9804-2fed7b47426b" data-vars-headline="Florida congressional map survives first court test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/14/democrats-south-2026-midterms-redistricting" target="_self">pre-write</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="who controls Congress" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/09/2026-midterms-redistricting-trump-virginia" data-vars-content-id="89877a23-2724-4066-9804-2fed7b47426b" data-vars-headline="Florida congressional map survives first court test" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/09/2026-midterms-redistricting-trump-virginia" target="_self">who controls Congress</a> before voters ever see a ballot.

Consumer confidence gauges show disenchantment, yet to different degrees

Consumer confidence is negative, but how bad is up for debate

Just how crappy consumers feel about the economy might be related to how two confidence surveys are structured.

Economy

Consumer confidence soured in early May, according to the Conference Board, though the reading shows a far less bleak economic mood than its peer survey from the University of Michigan, which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="plumbed new lows" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/22/consumers-inflation-republicans-michigan" data-vars-content-id="09df4766-a3c4-4b22-9ea2-b6a1386efcfa" data-vars-headline="Consumer confidence gauges show disenchantment, yet to different degrees" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/22/consumers-inflation-republicans-michigan" target="_self">plumbed new lows</a> Friday.Why it matters: Directionally, the two surveys send the same signal: Consumers are downgrading their economic views as the war-driven energy shock weighs on household budgets.<ul><li>But whether consumers feel worse about the economy now than at any other point in the past half-century depends on which survey you reference.</li></ul>

Huntsville

Federal judges block Alabama's congressional map switch

Federal judges put the brakes on Alabama's efforts to revert to its 2023 congressional maps.

News

A federal court has put the brakes on Alabama&#x27;s efforts to revert to its 2023 congressional maps for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="this year&#x27;s elections" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/20/alabama-governor-race-senate-house-primary-elections" data-vars-content-id="1c88577b-b99f-45d7-af11-79d593abc7d2" data-vars-headline="Federal judges block Alabama&#x27;s congressional map switch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/20/alabama-governor-race-senate-house-primary-elections" target="_self">this year&#x27;s elections</a>.Why it matters: If Alabamans vote this fall under the 2023 maps, one of the state&#x27;s seven House seats would likely flip from blue to red.<ul><li>The decision also carries implications for Alabama&#x27;s upcoming special primaries, with wheels <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="already turning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/12/scotus-rulings-reshape-alabama-primary-elections" data-vars-content-id="1c88577b-b99f-45d7-af11-79d593abc7d2" data-vars-headline="Federal judges block Alabama&#x27;s congressional map switch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/05/12/scotus-rulings-reshape-alabama-primary-elections" target="_self">already turning</a> on a plan to put the former maps in effect for midterm elections.</li></ul>

Summer box office reflects new media reality

Disney's latest Star Wars film reflects a shift in how Hollywood measures success.

Business

A disappointing theatrical debut over the weekend for Star Wars&#x27; newest film &quot;The Mandalorian and Grogu&quot; suggests <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="streaming" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/video-market-stalls" data-vars-content-id="f38427e2-cb8b-444c-a6b0-cb3c5d715ddd" data-vars-headline="Summer box office reflects new media reality" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/video-market-stalls" target="_self">streaming</a> hits don&#x27;t always translate to box office success. But that might not matter as much as it once did. Why it matters: For <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Disney" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/03/disney-ceo-succession-josh-damaro" data-vars-content-id="f38427e2-cb8b-444c-a6b0-cb3c5d715ddd" data-vars-headline="Summer box office reflects new media reality" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/03/disney-ceo-succession-josh-damaro" target="_self">Disney</a>, Star Wars has always been bigger than ticket sales. That&#x27;s true now more than ever as the entertainment giant further diversifies its business across screens, consumer products and experiences.

Massive landfill fire erupts in Des Moines hours after city warning

Metro Waste Authority fires nearly tripled in 2025.

<figure><img alt="A video of a landfill fire." height="450" id="f3fc9e56-ff7f-4647-ac80-bc2b95907d9f" src="https://images.axios.com/HxfGd9MD4TbUyByiTFDZ1NDQQKI=/2026/05/19/1779190402770.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>The fire at Metro Park East Landfill earlier this month is suspected to have been caused by lithium batteries or rechargeable electronics that ignited when compacted. Video: Courtesy of Metro Waste Authority</figcaption></figure>One of the largest landfill fires in metro history erupted hours after waste officials warned Des Moines leaders this month about their growing battle against improper battery disposal.Why it matters: Unbeknownst to many residents, rechargeable devices such as vapes, smartphones and electric toothbrushes are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="turning household trash into fire hazards" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/25/discarded-batteries-causing-fires-in-des-moines-metro-landfills" data-vars-content-id="0c001f30-bc03-4a29-969c-6c3a037202be" data-vars-headline="Massive landfill fire erupts in Des Moines hours after city warning" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/03/25/discarded-batteries-causing-fires-in-des-moines-metro-landfills" target="_self">turning household trash into fire hazards</a>.

Mushroom festival will cover foraging, mental health and more

Things to Do

If you love all things fungi, toadstool, or just that little dude from Mario Bros., there&#x27;s a free event May 31 just for you.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The DSM Mushroom Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://dsmmushroomfest.com/" data-vars-content-id="7f531869-8ab6-4106-a3d0-68f323716d0e" data-vars-headline="Mushroom festival will cover foraging, mental health and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dsmmushroomfest.com/" target="_blank">The DSM Mushroom Festival</a> covers everything mycology, from foraging to mental health research.

Polk County pays $6.5K for using an unauthorized whale photo

AI-powered copyright tools are making it easier to spot unauthorized uses.

Polk County Supervisors on Tuesday unanimously agreed to pay $6,500 to a photographer and his legal counsel for using a photo of a whale without permission.Why it matters: AI-powered copyright tools are making it easier for rights holders to find online infringements, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="increasing the risk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/24/24252410/nintendo-dmca-notices-mario-fan-art-ai-image-detection" data-vars-content-id="52dd56e8-f9b2-4f18-9d65-10a66a548274" data-vars-headline="Polk County pays $6.5K for using an unauthorized whale photo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/24/24252410/nintendo-dmca-notices-mario-fan-art-ai-image-detection" target="_blank">increasing the risk</a> for governments and other agencies that use photos on websites and social media.

Mass timber townhomes planned near Drake University

The project will rely on engineered wood rather than steel and concrete.

Construction of a nearly $7.1 million <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mass timber" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/04/26/wooden-skyscrapers-mass-timber" data-vars-content-id="a821144d-ec68-4f9a-9ae2-b7315b4eab36" data-vars-headline="Mass timber townhomes planned near Drake University" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/04/26/wooden-skyscrapers-mass-timber" target="_self">mass timber</a> townhome project near Drake University could begin next year.Why it matters: It would be among the city&#x27;s first townhome developments to use the building method that relies on engineered wood rather than steel and concrete, Molly Cutler of Cutler Development tells Axios.

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst helping Urbandale get a ZIP code

The city has dealt with mailing problems and delays.

For decades, Urbandale has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="endured a ZIP code problem" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/17/urbandale-lobbies-dc-to-get-its-own-zip-code" data-vars-content-id="b62043cf-48f8-4bcb-88f6-9a44b05d2e44" data-vars-headline="U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst helping Urbandale get a ZIP code" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/11/17/urbandale-lobbies-dc-to-get-its-own-zip-code" target="_self">endured a ZIP code problem</a>, but a new bill led by U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst may finally allow the suburb to have its own unique five digits.Why it matters: Residents and businesses near the city&#x27;s limits have experienced missing packages, mail delays and confusion over which government agencies to turn to.

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

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

Politics

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

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>.

Flood fixes lead to a George Flagg Parkway comeback

A $2 million office and warehouse-style building is the latest proposal.

New developments are in the works along George Flagg Parkway — where projects had been blocked by persistent flooding — including an expansion of Jasper Winery and a proposed $2 million &quot;flex office&quot; building.Why it matters:<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Des Moines has spent tens of millions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/03/22/flood-resiliency-desmoines-insurance-federal-iowa" data-vars-content-id="869b41e0-be42-476f-8878-f74ec091e087" data-vars-headline="Flood fixes lead to a George Flagg Parkway comeback" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/03/22/flood-resiliency-desmoines-insurance-federal-iowa" target="_self"> Des Moines has spent tens of millions</a> of dollars in recent years to improve its levees, prompting federal flood officials to lift restrictions on property buyouts.

Oakridge is planning a $15M+ Cynergy project

Project organizers aim to break ground as early as next year.

Oakridge Neighborhood is advancing a $15 million-plus project to bring larger affordable housing units and a wellness-focused commercial hub to a long-vacant site in downtown Des Moines.Why it matters: The project targets<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" a persistent gap" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/10/27/des-moines-affordable-housing-shortage" data-vars-content-id="16e004ea-71a3-45fa-a078-f78847567118" data-vars-headline="Oakridge is planning a $15M+ Cynergy project" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/10/27/des-moines-affordable-housing-shortage" target="_self"> a persistent gap</a> in the supply of three- and four-bedroom affordable units, especially for working families who spend a large share of their income on rent, Oakridge CEO Deidre DeJear tells Axios.

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.

Iowa reports more tick bites, illnesses

Multiple tick-borne diseases are up, a state report shows.

Iowa is entering a more complex era of ticks, marked by earlier bite reports, shifting disease patterns and a new invasive threat to cattle.Why it matters: Tick bites can make people seriously ill.

Ankeny teen competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee

Caleb DeVan, 14, of Ankeny, is heading to the national competition in Washington D.C.

For 14-year-old Caleb DeVan, his favorite word he&#x27;s learned while studying for spelling bees is &quot;sardoodledom,&quot; which refers to stories or plots with mechanically contrived cliches.Why it matters: Today, the Ankeny teen&#x27;s ability to spell sardoodledom and many others will help him compete in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scripps National Spelling Bee" data-vars-click-url="https://spellingbee.com/meet-the-spellers" data-vars-content-id="3dd94ce3-6d3c-4ec6-a8d0-58b7082bfe56" data-vars-headline="Ankeny teen competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://spellingbee.com/meet-the-spellers" target="_blank">Scripps National Spelling Bee</a>, along with Malayna Eichwald, an 11-year-old from Davenport.<ul><li>247 kids are competing in the preliminaries, followed by quarterfinals and semifinals Wednesday, and then Thursday&#x27;s finals.</li><li>The champion will take home a trophy, a medal, and $52,500 in cash.</li></ul>How it started: DeVan, a student at Ankeny Southview Middle School, was always a big reader growing up, but he discovered his knack for spelling when he entered his school&#x27;s spelling bee last December.<ul><li>He tied with another student, prompting a &quot;spell off.&quot; DeVan won with &quot;cajolery.&quot;</li><li>He advanced to a statewide competition at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Living History Farms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.lhf.org/event/living-history-farms-spelling-bee/" data-vars-content-id="3dd94ce3-6d3c-4ec6-a8d0-58b7082bfe56" data-vars-headline="Ankeny teen competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.lhf.org/event/living-history-farms-spelling-bee/" target="_blank">Living History Farms</a> in March. To study for it, he spent all his free time studying Scripps&#x27; 2,000-word list and its etymologies. He won with &quot;jackal.&quot;</li></ul>State of play: Since then, DeVan has studied Scripps&#x27; 4,000-word &quot;Words of the Champions&quot; book and spent so much time practicing that he can&#x27;t even measure the hours.<ul><li>And beyond the spelling bee, he&#x27;s also been involved with mock trial, basketball, jazz band, choir concerts and quiz bowl.</li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: The thing he&#x27;s most excited for this week?<ul><li>&quot;The free hotel.&quot;</li></ul>How to watch: Preliminary and quarterfinal rounds air on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scripps Sports Network" data-vars-click-url="https://scrippssportsnetwork.com/" data-vars-content-id="3dd94ce3-6d3c-4ec6-a8d0-58b7082bfe56" data-vars-headline="Ankeny teen competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://scrippssportsnetwork.com/" target="_blank">Scripps Sports Network</a>.<ul><li>Semifinals and finals <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="will air" data-vars-click-url="https://www.spellingbee.com/watch" data-vars-content-id="3dd94ce3-6d3c-4ec6-a8d0-58b7082bfe56" data-vars-headline="Ankeny teen competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.spellingbee.com/watch" target="_blank">will air</a> on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ion" data-vars-click-url="https://iontelevision.com/" data-vars-content-id="3dd94ce3-6d3c-4ec6-a8d0-58b7082bfe56" data-vars-headline="Ankeny teen competing in Scripps National Spelling Bee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://iontelevision.com/" target="_blank">Ion</a> May 27–28.</li></ul>

CelebrAsian returns this weekend with a record 70 food vendors

The popular two-day festival celebrates Iowa's Asian community.

CelebrAsian is back this weekend <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="for its 23rd annual event" data-vars-click-url="https://www.iowaasianalliance.com/celebrasian" data-vars-content-id="dfb9d30b-6fb2-4739-b2e0-78213ce331db" data-vars-headline="CelebrAsian returns this weekend with a record 70 food vendors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.iowaasianalliance.com/celebrasian" target="_blank">for its 23rd annual event</a>, and it&#x27;s using the moment to launch a fundraising push for a new refugee memorial project.Driving the news: Festival organizer Iowa Asian Alliance (IAA) wants to plant flowering and canopy trees along Robert D. Ray Drive and near the Capitol, with each tree symbolizing a refugee family as a &quot;living legacy&quot; to their stories, executive director Nu Huynh tells Axios.

Iowa pushes for more pasture as beef prices spike

Grazing pressures are affecting ranchers across multiple states.

Iowa cattle producers are urging Congress to allow more cattle to graze on conservation land, arguing that doing so could help the nation&#x27;s herd size recover from a 75-year low.Why it matters: The changes could benefit farmers and, over time, help ease supply pressures that are contributing to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="near-record-high" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/19/beef-burger-prices-record-high-usda-supply" data-vars-content-id="307a097e-764f-442b-98d9-87ab0ddac096" data-vars-headline="Iowa pushes for more pasture as beef prices spike" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/19/beef-burger-prices-record-high-usda-supply" target="_self">near-record-high</a> beef prices.

Polk County Conservation creates its own nonprofit to help local recreation

The local conservation agency is creating its own fundraising branch.

Polk County Conservation (PCC) has created a dedicated nonprofit called <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Conservation Foundation of Polk County" data-vars-click-url="https://givecfpc.org/" data-vars-content-id="72c11260-9e5b-42f8-b375-02df4644bfbf" data-vars-headline="Polk County Conservation creates its own nonprofit to help local recreation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://givecfpc.org/" target="_blank">Conservation Foundation of Polk County</a> to make it easier to fundraise for local parks, programs and recreation.Why it matters: A new state law capped property tax revenue growth, meaning funding for the outdoors could face some pressure ahead, says PCC spokesperson Jessica Lown.

Des Moines library supporters rally as city weighs cuts

The city will have to make cuts due to a new state law capping property tax revenue growth.

Des Moines Public Library supporters filled the City Council chambers Monday morning to support the library ahead of potential budget cuts, but city officials questioned: If they don&#x27;t cut there, then where?The big picture: Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a bill into law yesterday capping property tax revenue growth at 2% annually, forcing the city to consider cuts on services across the board.

Iowa's unpaid tax sale challenged as unconstitutional

The system unlawfully strips property owners of their home equity, an Iowa man contends.

An Iowa homeowner&#x27;s fight to keep his house over a $2,441 tax debt could test whether the state&#x27;s tax-sale system unlawfully strips property owners of their home equity.Why it matters: If successful, the lawsuit could have widespread implications for how governments collect tax debt and whether they can be compelled to compensate former owners.

Waukee Parks exploring more green space, kayaks in future

Waukee Parks and Rec is asking for the public's input for future planning ideas.

Waukee wants to make sure all residents are within half a mile of a park.Why it matters: The new plan will help guide future green space and recreation growth for one of the metro&#x27;s fastest-growing cities.

I finally planted my giant pumpkins outside

Hope #1 and Hope #2 have made it into their new homes.

Linh here! And I&#x27;m on a journey to grow a giant pumpkin in the hopes of showing it at the Iowa State Fair.<ul><li>Aptly, the pumpkin is named Hope (and I&#x27;m also growing Hope #2, just in case).</li></ul>

Hinterland returns with new stage, extra room and traffic flow

The St. Charles festival returns with a star-studded lineup.

Music

Hinterland is back this summer with new features, including a permanent stage and an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="eclectic four-day lineup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hinterlandiowa.com/lineup" data-vars-content-id="caf3aab9-a901-4448-8962-c8d4d6c02dd5" data-vars-headline="Hinterland returns with new stage, extra room and traffic flow" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hinterlandiowa.com/lineup" target="_blank">eclectic four-day lineup</a>, July 30-Aug. 2.Why it matters: No one really expects to see Lorde out among farm fields, and we get to proudly say they&#x27;re our farm fields.

My giant pumpkin is growing too large for my home

I'm growing a giant pumpkin for the Iowa State Fair.

Linh here. I&#x27;m growing a giant pumpkin named Hope to enter at the Iowa State Fair, and this weekend, I&#x27;m finally planting Hope (and Hope #2, just in case.) Why it matters: They are not happy with me.

Mobile sauna and cold plunge open at Water Works Park

The new pop-up will be at Water Works Park every Saturday.

A new wood-fired sauna pop-up at Water Works Park is bringing the popular pastime to the great outdoors in Des Moines.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Empeiria Saunahouse" data-vars-click-url="https://www.empeiriasauna.com/" data-vars-content-id="206b9a80-02db-4595-901c-a3984574a10a" data-vars-headline="Mobile sauna and cold plunge open at Water Works Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.empeiriasauna.com/" target="_blank">Empeiria Saunahouse</a> is a new pop-up social sauna and cold plunge parked just south of the Des Moines Biergarten, near the amphitheater.

Pie Bird Pies bakery grows bigger

The popular pie bakery is looking into wholesale products.

Food and Drink

For years, pie dough and flour took over Kristen Daily and her wife&#x27;s Drake neighborhood home as she worked to keep up with the growing demand for her business, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pie Bird Pies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/03/12/des-moines-pie-bird-pies-creators-business-blew-up-overnight" data-vars-content-id="811d416b-a6d7-44e2-a680-3be1e17d8221" data-vars-headline="Pie Bird Pies bakery grows bigger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2021/03/12/des-moines-pie-bird-pies-creators-business-blew-up-overnight" target="_self">Pie Bird Pies</a>.Why it matters: After years of searching for a larger commercial kitchen, Daily learned that she doesn&#x27;t &quot;knead&quot; to look any further than her own backyard.

Bonchon opens its first Iowa location near Jordan Creek

The popular Korean fried chicken chain opened outside of Jordan Creek mall.

Linh here. I&#x27;m a huge Korean fried chicken fan. (Every Wednesday, you&#x27;ll find me at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Basic Bird for their $1 wing deal" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/02/04/basic-bird-offers-dollar-wing-deal-every-wednesday" data-vars-content-id="b5a48473-aeca-47df-854a-ce67d0f18190" data-vars-headline="Bonchon opens its first Iowa location near Jordan Creek" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2025/02/04/basic-bird-offers-dollar-wing-deal-every-wednesday" target="_self">Basic Bird for their $1 wing deal</a>.)<ul><li>So when I saw that the popular Bonchon chain was opening just outside Jordan Creek mall, I was hyped to try it.</li></ul>

How The Bake Shoppe's co-owner starts her day

Lisa Kannapel wakes up bright and early to start work in the bakery.

Growing up in the newspaper business, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Bake Shoppe" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/04/03/the-bake-shoppe-plans-second-location-in-waukee" data-vars-content-id="9dcfbc90-39bb-40b4-8bef-c377ef357f41" data-vars-headline="How The Bake Shoppe&#x27;s co-owner starts her day" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2026/04/03/the-bake-shoppe-plans-second-location-in-waukee" target="_self">The Bake Shoppe</a> co-owner Lisa Kannapel was no stranger to early mornings.<ul><li>Kannapel says she&#x27;s taken on the work ethic of her father, who still owns small-town Iowa papers in places like Armstrong and Ringsted today.</li></ul>And while she still puts many hours into the bakery, a breast cancer diagnosis last year kept her out of the kitchen — a major endeavor as a &quot;workaholic,&quot; she says. <ul><li>Now she tries to take more moments to appreciate other parts of her life.</li><li>&quot;Ever since my cancer diagnosis, we&#x27;ve just kind of decided our personal lives are a little more important than we&#x27;re giving it credit for,&quot; says Kannapel, who runs the bakery with her husband, Chris.</li></ul>What&#x27;s next: Lisa is in remission, and the Kannapels are opening a second location this spring in Waukee.<ul><li>&quot;You only live once,&quot; she says.</li></ul>Here&#x27;s how Kannapel starts her day:⏰ Wake up: 5:15–5:45am.🍳 Breakfast: Two hard-boiled eggs and coffee. Scrambled on the weekends.📱 What she&#x27;s reading: Work emails. 💡 Her advice for new bakers: Start at farmers markets for experience.

Owner of Hello, Marjorie opening another bar in downtown's Equitable Building

Nothing Major is planned for this summer.

Nick Tillinghast, the owner of cocktail bars like Hello, Marjorie and Secret Admirer, is expanding his footprint at downtown Des Moines&#x27; Equitable Building.Why it matters: Downtown&#x27;s business district has struggled with foot traffic since COVID, but Tillinghast, a decade-long resident of the Equitable Building himself, wants to help spur a neighborhood revival.

The Bake Shoppe plans second location in Waukee

The longtime bakery is opening a second location in the Waukee Triangle.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Bake Shoppe" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thebakeshoppe.org/" data-vars-content-id="713855c3-32e1-41d9-b828-fdd49538a707" data-vars-headline="The Bake Shoppe plans second location in Waukee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thebakeshoppe.org/" target="_blank">The Bake Shoppe</a>, home of Barbara&#x27;s iconic Champagne cake recipe, is expanding with a second location at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Waukee Triangle" data-vars-click-url="https://www.waukeedowntown.com/" data-vars-content-id="713855c3-32e1-41d9-b828-fdd49538a707" data-vars-headline="The Bake Shoppe plans second location in Waukee" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.waukeedowntown.com/" target="_blank">Waukee Triangle</a>.Why it matters: The dreamy blush-pink cake has been a Des Moines tradition since the 1940s, and demand has grown so much in recent years that co-owner Lisa Kannapel says they need another shop.

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

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

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

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