Outline:
Greetings from Des Moines!
Welcome to your go-to source for the latest happenings in town. Whether you’re looking for updates on local events, news, or just a fun riddle to solve, we’ve got you covered. Read on to stay in the loop! ☕️
What’s Happening Today
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s on our radar:
- How a $50,000 grant will reshape welding training for DMPS students
- Des Moines man faces decades after brutal NE 14th Street attack
- Ready to test-drive AI at the Science Center of Iowa?
- Also on today’s calendar:
- The Bomb Shelter Comedy Showcase
- And 9 more events.
Today’s Riddle
I just got a watch for my sister. 🤔
Answer below!
Weather Forecast
Friday:
Snow showers in the afternoon, with a high of 35 and low of 9 degrees.
⛄️ Brr!
Saturday:
A snow shower in the morning, temps: high: 15, low: 6.
Sunday:
Not as cold, becoming breezy, with a high of 35 and low of 3 degrees.
News We’re Reading
-
Des Moines Public Schools awarded $50,000 to expand welding program
Des Moines Public Schools has received a $50,000 STEM grant to expand the Central Campus welding lab. This includes adding eight new booths and improving ventilation. Starting in the 2026-27 school year, the program’s capacity will increase by 40%, providing more students with hands-on welding experience, mentorship, dual credit, and apprenticeship pathways with industry partners. -
Iowa man convicted of attempted murder for baseball bat attack
A Des Moines man was recently convicted of attempted murder after a woman was brutally beaten with a baseball bat outside an inn on NE 14th Street in September 2025. Polk County jurors found 38-year-old Raymond Gooch guilty, and he now faces a mandatory prison term with sentencing set for March 5. -
Science Center of Iowa introduces Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine traveling exhibit
Residents can now explore a hands-on artificial intelligence exhibit at the Science Center of Iowa, open from Friday, January 16 through Sunday, April 26. The traveling show lets visitors test AI tools, learn about risks like deepfakes, and hear why state leaders say ethical, human-guided use of the technology is vital for Iowa’s students and workforce. -
Fourth charter school to open in Cedar Rapids this fall
Des Moines families already familiar with Horizon Science Academy will see the charter network expand, as the Iowa State Board of Education approved a new Horizon campus opening in Cedar Rapids in 2026. The article also details new STEM-focused charter schools planned in Council Bluffs and Fredericksburg, reflecting broader growth of charter options across Iowa that could influence future offerings in Des Moines. -
Iowa dairy farmers could see boost from new whole milk law
From Des Moines schools are now allowed to serve whole and 2% milk again, following President Trump’s signing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. AE Dairy’s CEO says the change better matches what kids drink at home and could boost Iowa dairy farmers, though schools must weigh higher milk costs against potentially reduced waste.
Around Des Moines
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Upcoming Events in Des Moines
Add your event to our calendar and newsletter!
Friday, January 16
– Girls Basketball: Waterloo East vs Des Moines East (JV2)
– Boys Basketball: Waterloo East vs Des Moines East (Varsity)
– Boys Basketball: Des Moines Roosevelt vs Marshalltown (Varsity)
– Girls Basketball: Des Moines Roosevelt vs Marshalltown (JV2)
– The Bomb Shelter Comedy Showcase
Saturday, January 17
– Conversation with Henry Payer (2026 Iowa Artist) and Associate Curator Elizabeth Gollnick
– Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA
Sunday, January 18
– Great Pyrenees & Samoyeds Meetup
Friday, January 23
– 80’s Ski Party
Saturday, January 24
– UFC 324 Watch Party
– Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
Sunday, January 25
– Harry Potter Brunch Bingo
Des Moines Shout Outs!
Want to say something great about someone in town?
Click here to submit your Shout Out to AM! It’s free!
Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself!
As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.
Chatter
What your neighbors are talking about on social media
– Strategic America announces CEO & President to retire
– Please share & repost to help reunite this lost cat!
– The monthly DMPD crime statistics show King Irving Neighborhood Asociation (KINA) is either the safest or next to the safest neighborhood in the entire city.
– LaborMAX Staffing posted a job opening for Forklift Operator in Des Moines. Apply here.
– McDonald’s posted a job opening for McDonald’s Janitorial $16/HR in Des Moines. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Des Moines here.
Final Thoughts
Ok Des Moines!
So now you’re in the loop about what’s happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh — and if you like what you’re reading, invite a friend to AM!
— The AM Team
P.S. The answer to today’s riddle:
I wish I could make a trade like that!
Got a good riddle for AM? Send it to us!
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