Aug. 7, 2026, Des Moines Daily Umbrella Podcast

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Friday, Aug. 7. Here's a quick look at the stories people across Iowa are talking about today. …We'll start with one of the state's most closely watched criminal cases. New court documents have been filed in the Kristin Ramsey case. According to KCCI, Ramsey's defense team says it now has two massive hard drives filled with evidence collected over the past 15 years. But attorneys also claim key evidence is still missing, including a video interview with another potential suspect, recordings of several witness interviews, and a written confession from someone dating back to 2018. A legal expert says those allegations could become an important issue as the case moves forward. …In other Iowa news, a Johnston man died Thursday after his vehicle left Interstate 35 in Warren County, became airborne, and struck a bridge pillar near the Highway 92 interchange. The Iowa State Patrol is continuing its investigation. …Iowa farmers are also watching Washington closely. Senate Republicans failed to move a new Farm Bill out of committee after Democrats withheld support and Sen. Mitch McConnell's absence affected the vote. One provision many Iowa producers were hoping for was year-round E15 fuel sales. …Looking ahead to the weekend, expect a chance of thunderstorms today with a high around 86 degrees. Saturday and Sunday should be warmer and mostly sunny, although a few scattered showers remain possible. …Now let's talk food. The newest issue of CITYVIEW magazine is asking readers to help crown Greater Des Moines' ultimate Italian dish. Pizza has already had its moment in previous contests, so this year's competition focuses on everything else Italian cuisine has to offer — from pasta and lasagna to chicken parmesan and beyond. Food writer Jim Duncan explores the rich history, contradictions and passion behind Italian cooking in this featured story. …Health headlines today include an interesting update from the American Heart Association. The organization now says drinking up to five eight-ounce cups of coffee a day appears safe for most adults and may even reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. The warning, however, remains the same for energy drinks, which often contain much higher caffeine levels. …If you're looking for a dining bargain this weekend, there are plenty to choose from. Frosty Trete in Bedford is celebrating its 75th anniversary with 75-cent and $1.75 specials. Several local restaurants are featuring prime rib, barbecue, seafood and brunch deals, while grocery stores have discounts on everything from steaks to lobster tails and fresh produce. See details at www.thedailyumbrella.com. …Finally, on this day in history: Aug. 7 marks the anniversary of George Washington creating what would eventually become the Purple Heart in 1782. It's also the day the first American satellite photographed Earth in 1959. …And before we go, here's today's Daily Umbrella riddle: What's a plumber's favorite song? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured in the next edition. And be sure to subscribe to our full email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com. …