Your trusted source for local Des Moines, IA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Ames School Board approved a contract with First Student, leading to the layoff of 62 bus drivers from Durham School Services in May. First Student's proposal was estimated to save the district $1 million compared to the existing contract.
The Atlanta Falcons received a $250,000 fine, while defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich was fined $100,000 due to a prank call involving Ulbrich's son and NFL draft prospect Shedeur Sanders. The team accepted the penalties and stated they would reinforce their security policies following the incident.
A pharmacy in Colfax, Iowa, faces potential closure due to unfavorable practices from pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) unless state-level reforms are enacted. The Spring City Pharmacy, a community staple for over 120 years, has struggled financially after losing over $100,000 in negative reimbursements. Local residents express deep concern about losing their only pharmacy, which plays a crucial role in their healthcare access.
Comedian Rosie O'Donnell has expressed her support for her daughter, Chelsea O'Donnell, who recently completed probation following drug-related charges in Wisconsin. In a heartfelt note, Rosie emphasizes the importance of privacy during Chelsea's recovery journey and acknowledges her daughter's progress, including completing treatment and earning her high school diploma. Chelsea is also seeking to change her last name to her birth mother's maiden name, which has prompted further reflection from Rosie about their relationship.
A controlled burn in Dallas County, Iowa, escalated into a 100-acre grassfire on Sunday, prompting a response from multiple fire departments. Fortunately, no injuries or structural damage were reported, but officials warn that dry spring conditions and high winds can lead to such incidents. Fire Captain Tim Morlan emphasized the importance of proper fire breaks when conducting controlled burns.
Jillian Shriner, an author and spouse of Weezer's bassist, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after an incident involving the LAPD, where she was shot by officers. The confrontation began when police were tracking a suspect from an unrelated hit-and-run, leading to Shriner being found armed in her backyard. She has since been released on a $1 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court on April 30.
The City of Des Moines is hosting free SCRUB and MEGA SCRUB events on Saturday, July 18, 2020, allowing residents to dispose of storm debris caused by severe weather. The events will take place at multiple locations, with guidelines in place to ensure safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents are encouraged to follow health precautions while utilizing this essential community service.
RAGBRAI is set to roll through Des Moines on July 26-27, bringing significant traffic and street closures. Residents are advised to prepare for delays and consult the provided guidelines for navigating the event safely. Public safety arrangements are in place to ensure emergency response remains effective during the bike ride.
The Des Moines City Council has implemented the Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, requiring large buildings to report their energy and water usage annually. This initiative aims to enhance awareness of resource consumption, potentially leading to significant savings in energy costs and improved building performance. By comparing usage data, building owners can identify opportunities for sustainable improvements.
Des Moines residents can pick up their free Tiny Trees on May 11, 2024, at Polk County River Place, contributing to the city's urban forest expansion. The event, organized by the Department of Public Works' Forestry Division, has seen a 17% increase in tree orders this year, showcasing strong community engagement in sustainability efforts. Those who missed the ordering period can still receive trees, with a second-chance giveaway scheduled for May 18.