The Daily Umbrella Podcasts

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, central Iowa. It’s Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, and this is your Daily Umbrella Podcast. Let’s get started. …Today marks 25 years since the Sept. 11 attacks. Across the country, Americans are remembering the nearly 3,000 people who died and the enormous changes that followed the attacks. Memorial ceremonies, moments of silence, flag displays, vigils and readings of victims’ names are taking place today. …Iowa farmers are heading toward harvest with another major expense hanging over them: diesel fuel. KCCI reports that diesel prices are at record highs, with the national average approaching $6 a gallon. Mark Mueller, a farmer and president of the Iowa Corn Growers Association, says he hopes these prices are not the new normal. Mueller says he has a 5,000-gallon diesel tank that is empty. At more than $5 a gallon, filling it would cost about $25,000 — nearly twice what he paid last year. …In Des Moines, 10 residents have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. The sentences follow guilty pleas in a case involving a conspiracy from 2025. …A 72-year-old woman was hospitalized Thursday night after her SUV crashed into an apartment on Des Moines’ east side. A dog inside the apartment was also injured. …The Iowa Republican Party is keeping Iowa’s First in the Nation status for presidential nominations through 2028. Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann says the state will remain first in the Republican nomination process following a Republican National Committee Rules Committee meeting in Dallas. …Now, some good news for local travelers on two wheels. The Lighted Bridge on the Raccoon River Valley Trail at Adel has reopened. The bridge had been damaged by fire and reopened in August. …And congratulations are in order for some of Iowa’s restaurant professionals. The Iowa Restaurant Association has announced its 2026 awards. Simon Goheen of Simon’s in Des Moines is Restaurateur of the Year. Chef Cory Barrett of Barrett’s Quality Eats in Coralville is Chef of the Year. Gwen Page of Whatcha Smokin? BBQ + Brew in Luther is Rural Operator of the Year. See all the winners at www.thedailyumbrella.com. …Now let’s check the weather. Friday will be mostly sunny with a high of 84 and a low of 67. There’s a 30% chance of rain. Saturday will be partly cloudy with a high of 81 and a low of 62, with a 20% chance of rain. Sunday brings scattered showers, a high of 78 and a low of 63. The chance of rain is 30%. And if your nose is telling you that something is blooming — or dying — you’re not imagining it. Today’s allergy alert is 10.5, which is in the high range. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …Before we go, let’s finish with today’s morning chuckle. What kind of bug can tell time? 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. …And finally, a quick look back at this date in history. On Sept. 11, 1812, Russians dedicated Fort Ross, their first stronghold on the California coast. In 1851, the Christiana Riot took place in Pennsylvania when a group of Black residents and white abolitionists confronted a Maryland posse seeking to capture four fugitive enslaved people. And, of course, Sept. 11, 2001, changed American history forever.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026. Here is your news, weather, sports and more. Let’s get started. …Central Iowa is beginning to dry out after Tuesday’s heavy rainfall caused flooding across the area. Some parts of Central Iowa received roughly 6 to 8 inches of rain in 24 hours. Restoration companies have been working around the clock to help homeowners whose basements filled with water. For some residents, the flooding was obvious Tuesday night. Others woke up Wednesday to discover inches of water in their basements. And while homeowners are cleaning up, Central Iowa is also looking ahead to a major investment in its drinking water system. …Central Iowa Water Works has big plans — $1.2 billion worth of them. The projects include a new West Plant, expansions at the Saylorville and Grimes plants, and an expansion of the nitrate removal facility. Officials say the work is needed as the region’s population continues to grow and demand for water increases. …In Des Moines, two men are in custody following a police chase connected to a stolen vehicle that authorities say was involved in Tuesday’s shooting near Roosevelt High School and Hubbell Elementary School. Police say detectives received a license plate reader alert Wednesday afternoon for the suspect vehicle. …Nationally, President Donald Trump is making a controversial proposal ahead of the midterm elections. He has pledged to give every American adult $5,000 if Republicans retain control of the House and Senate. The proposal could cost more than $1 trillion, would require congressional approval and comes as the nation faces a nearly $1.8 trillion annual budget deficit. …In Iowa, the family of a man killed by a Waterloo police officer in 2021 has reached a $3 million settlement in a wrongful-death lawsuit. …Now, let’s talk weather. Today will be mostly sunny, with a high of 79 and a low of 61. There is just a 10% chance of rain. Friday will be partly cloudy, warmer, with a high of 84 and a low of 67. The rain chance rises to 30%. Saturday will be mostly cloudy, with a high of 82, a low of 63 and a 20% chance of rain. The allergy report is not quite as pleasant. Today’s pollen level is 10.5, which is in the high range. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …Now, your sports update. The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks opened the season 1-0, but quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury against the New England Patriots and is scheduled for an MRI. Seattle won the game 13-10, with Drew Lock leading a second-half comeback. …At the gas pump, prices continue to climb. Regular unleaded in Iowa is averaging $4.06 a gallon, up 17 cents from last week and $1.22 higher than a year ago. If you are looking for the cheapest gas in the metro, the report lists Sinclair in West Des Moines at $3.59 a gallon. Flying J and Murphy USA in Altoona are at $3.64, as is QuikTrip on Hubbell Avenue in Des Moines. …And finally, here is a little history for Sept. 10. In 1897, a 25-year-old London taxi driver named George Smith became the first person arrested for drunk driving after crashing his cab into a building. In 1977, the guillotine was used for the last time when Hamida Djandoubi was executed in France. And in 2008, scientists powered up the Large Hadron Collider for the first time at CERN in Geneva. …And we will leave you with today’s morning riddle: Where do birds stay when they travel? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning. It is Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, and this is The Daily Umbrella Podcast. Here is what is happening around central Iowa. …First, Tuesday evening’s storms caused plenty of problems across the Des Moines metro. Des Moines police responded to more than 65 reports involving downed trees, power lines and flooded roadways as storms moved through the area. The department’s Communications Center received more than 225 calls between 5:45 and 7:45 p.m. Those calls included reports of crimes, crashes and storm-related problems. Officers responded to more than 65 calls involving downed wires, trees and flooded streets. …Ankeny voters approved a 1% local option sales tax increase in Tuesday’s special election. The Polk County Elections Office reported that 64% of voters supported the measure, increasing the city’s sales tax rate from 6% to 7%. City officials estimate the tax could generate about $12 million in annual revenue. The tax applies to purchases made in Ankeny, although some items will not be affected, including groceries, cars, rent, gas and prescription medication. …In Des Moines, police are investigating a gunfire incident near Roosevelt High School and Hubbell Elementary School. Police said the incident occurred off campus Tuesday afternoon. No injuries were reported, but multiple shell casings were recovered from Chamberlain Avenue. …Around Iowa, there is sad news from the University of Iowa. Derek Phillips, a student and member of the Hawkeye Marching Band, died Tuesday after collapsing during Saturday’s Iowa football game at Kinnick Stadium. The band said Phillips was the mellophone section leader. His family said he was taken off life support after suffering what the Gazette reported was heat stroke during the game. …Now, let’s check the weather. Today will bring gradual clearing, with a high of 81 and a low of 61. There is a 20% chance of rain. Thursday looks mostly sunny, with a high of 81, a low of 60 and no chance of rain in the forecast. Friday will be warmer, with a high of 84 and a low of 67. Storms are possible late in the day, with a 40% chance of rain. And if you are sneezing, the allergy outlook is not exactly good news. Today’s allergy alert is rated 10, or high range. The top allergens are nettle, sagebrush and ragweed. …In sports, Ben Shelton pulled off a stunning victory over Carlos Alcaraz at the U.S. Open. Shelton won a five-set marathon that ended at 3:33 a.m. Eastern time Wednesday. The match lasted 4 hours, 28 minutes and ended Alcaraz’s 18-match Grand Slam winning streak. And Aaron Judge returned to the New York Yankees lineup Tuesday after missing about three months with a stress fracture in his rib. The Yankees beat the Colorado Rockies 5-3. …Finally, a little history. On this date in 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the name “United States of America,” replacing the commonly used “United Colonies.” In 1942, a Japanese floatplane dropped incendiary bombs on an Oregon forest, marking the first air attack on the U.S. mainland during World War II. And in 1967, Air Force Sgt. Duane D. Hackney received the Air Force Cross for rescuing an Air Force pilot in Vietnam. He was the first living Air Force enlisted man to receive the award. …And now, today’s riddle: What’s the easiest building to lift? 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. …That is The Daily Umbrella for Wednesday, Sept. 9. Have a great day, stay weather-aware and watch out for that ragweed.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Des Moines Daily Umbrella Podcast for Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026. Let’s get started. …In Pleasant Hill, a pickup driver crashed through a tree and into a house Monday morning. According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the driver was traveling on N.E. 64th Street when the vehicle went off the road, struck a tree and pushed it through the home’s front doors. The preliminary investigation indicates the driver lost control. …In Des Moines, thousands turned out Monday for the annual Labor Day Parade despite rainy weather. The parade included union members and local labor groups representing educators, bus drivers, carpenters and steelworkers. Organizers also emphasized an all-American-made vehicle lineup. …Be careful with the heat today. Tuesday is a Weather Impact Alert Day, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-90s. Heat indexes could climb as high as 102 degrees around and south of Interstate 80. …Around the state, a man was killed Monday morning in a skid-loader accident in Clio, in Wayne County near the Missouri border. The sheriff’s office said the accident happened on Main Street, although few additional details were immediately available. …Around the nation, an Associated Press review found that most states encourage or require schools to teach about the Sept. 11 attacks, but exactly what students learn varies widely. Educators are preparing to explain the events to a generation that was not alive when they happened, while also considering how to present the subject in an age-appropriate way. …And internationally, Canada is escalating its trade dispute with the United States by imposing tariffs on about $20 billion worth of U.S. goods in response to the latest U.S. tariffs on Canadian products. …Now, a quick look at sports. The New England Patriots and cornerback Christian Gonzalez have agreed to a four-year, $135 million contract, including $102 million guaranteed. That makes Gonzalez the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history, surpassing the deal recently given to Devon Witherspoon. In college football, Lane Kiffin has begun his LSU tenure, while the new season continues to generate plenty of storylines. And Shohei Ohtani returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup after missing four games. The Dodgers defeated Cincinnati 6-3. …Finally, your weather forecast. Today: Partly cloudy, with a high of 93 and a low of 71. There is a 40% chance of rain. Wednesday: Partly cloudy, cooler, with a high of 84 and a low of 61, and a 20% chance of rain. Thursday: Partly cloudy, with a high of 81 and a low of 63. No rain is expected. The allergy index today is 11.2, which is considered high. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …And we will leave you with today’s morning chuckle. Yesterday’s question was: What do you call a rude cow? The answers included “beef jerky” and, appropriately enough, “bossy.” … Today’s riddle: Why is that picture in jail? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning. It is Monday, Sept. 7, Labor Day, and this is the Daily Umbrella Podcast. Here is your news for today. …A water main break has damaged Eighth Street in Des Moines’ Highland Park neighborhood. The break, between Euclid and Clinton avenues, left broken pavement, exposed bricks and a large hole in the street. The road is closed while crews make repairs. …Two Marshalltown men face attempted murder and other felony charges following a shooting Saturday morning. Police responded to a possible drive-by shooting at a residence in the 300 block of North 14th Avenue around 6 a.m. No one was injured. Police arrested 20-year-old Tyree Rudolph and 21-year-old Jeremiah McMullen on Sunday. …Valley West Mall has a new buyer and potentially a new owner. The Des Moines-area mall has declined in recent years, and its previous owners defaulted on the mortgage in 2022. …In agriculture news, Iowa leaders are mourning the death of Ray Gaesser, a longtime farmer and agricultural advocate who died in a farming accident. Gaesser was a former president of the Iowa Soybean Association and chaired the Iowa Conservative Energy Forum. He also was involved with Solutions from the Land and the North American Climate Smart Agriculture Alliance. …Nationally, an Amazon cargo plane crashed at Miami International Airport Sunday after overrunning the runway. The plane struck vehicles and caught fire, killing at least five people and injuring five others. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash. …In business news, Casey’s is getting into the chicken-wing game in a big way. The Ankeny-based company plans to offer wings at all of its more than 3,000 stores within two years. Customers will be able to choose from Buffalo, barbecue, sweet chili, garlic parmesan and mango habanero sauces, along with Casey’s buttermilk ranch. …Now, your weather. Today will be partly cloudy with a high of 87 and a low of 71. There is no rain in the forecast. Tuesday will be partly cloudy with a hot high of 94 and a low of 71, with a 30% chance of rain. Wednesday brings partly cloudy skies, a high of 85, a low of 63 and a 20% chance of rain. The allergy alert is high at 10.3. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …In sports, Notre Dame opened the season with a 41-13 victory over Wisconsin at Lambeau Field. The Irish pulled away in the second half behind quarterback CJ Carr. And college football’s opening weekend produced plenty of drama, including LSU beating Clemson and Michigan losing to Western Michigan on a Hail Mary. A Nebraska-Missouri volleyball match at Wrigley Field was also postponed because of extreme heat and humidity. …Now, a little history. On this date in 1813, the nickname “Uncle Sam” was linked to Samuel Wilson, a meat packer from Troy, New York, who supplied beef barrels stamped “U.S.” to the Army during the War of 1812. In 1911, artist and poet Guillaume Apollinaire was arrested on suspicion of stealing the Mona Lisa. And in 1996, rapper Tupac Shakur was shot in Las Vegas after a boxing match. He died several days later.And finally, today’s morning chuckle. The question is: What do you call a rude cow? 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. …That is the Daily Umbrella for Monday, Sept. 7. Have a great Labor Day, and thanks for starting your morning with us.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, central Iowa. It is Friday, Sept. 4, 2026. Here is your Daily Umbrella Podcast morning update. Let’s get started. …If you drive through the Southwest Mixmaster in West Des Moines, get ready for some changes. Closures and intermittent lane reductions are beginning as preparation gets underway for a $146 million renovation of the interchange. The three-year project will add two flyover bridges to the Southwest Mixmaster, similar to the ones at the East Mix and near Ames. The project also will add a lane to Interstate 235 between 50th Street and Valley West Drive, along with ramp improvements. …Around the state, Lincoln Savings Bank is planning to merge with Kansas-based Equity Bank. The deal is valued at about $124 million and is expected to close by the end of the year. Lincoln’s 16 locations in the Cedar Valley and Des Moines metro areas are expected to become Equity Bank locations in spring 2027. The good news for customers: Equity says there are no planned branch closings or consolidations. …And now for some Iowa Nice. Choose Iowa says its Local Food for Schools Program is providing $200,000 to help Iowa schools buy food grown and raised in the state. The program was made permanent through the 2026 Iowa Farm Act, creating new markets for Iowa farmers and food businesses. Iowa also is expanding its free nitrogen soil sampling program for farmers, including those in central Iowa and the Des Moines area. …And here is some good news for local track and field fans. Waukee Northwest High School coach Ben Duea has been named the 2026 National High School Girls Track and Field Coach of the Year. He is the first coach from Iowa to receive the honor. Duea just completed his fifth year at Northwest, where he coaches girls track and teaches special education. This fall, he will coach girls basketball. …Now, let’s check the weather. Saturday will be partly cloudy, with a high of 94 and a low of 74. There is a 20% chance of rain. Sunday looks similar: partly cloudy, a high of 93, a low of 73 and a 20% chance of rain. Monday stays partly cloudy, with a high of 90, a low of 71 and a 20% rain chance. And if your nose has already figured out that fall is coming, the allergy alert is in the high range today, with a pollen level of 11.7. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …Today in history: On Sept. 4, 1951, President Harry Truman delivered a speech in San Francisco that became the first television program broadcast from coast to coast. And on this date in 1957, Arkansas National Guard troops blocked nine Black students from entering Little Rock Central High School. The event became a major test of the federal government's commitment to school desegregation. …And finally, today’s morning chuckle. Yesterday’s riddle asked how you know if an ant is a boy or a girl. One answer: Toss it in the water. If it sinks, it’s a girl. If it floats, it’s a buoy-ant! Today’s question: What classical ballet did the pig pen perform? 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. …That’s your Daily Umbrella Podcast morning update for Friday, Sept. 4. Have a great Friday — and a great weekend.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, central Iowa. It is Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026. Here is your Daily Umbrella Podcast. Let’s get started. …The Buc-ee’s battle is spreading across Iowa. After the Urbandale City Council rejected the first step toward allowing Buc-ee’s to build near Northwest 100th Street and Northpark Drive, other Iowa communities are stepping forward. Gov. Kim Reynolds says she is working to find a community willing to approve the project. And several cities apparently would be happy to take Urbandale’s place. …Authorities are investigating a plane that made an emergency landing Wednesday outside the Guthrie Center Regional Airport. A small blue-and-white, single-engine plane crashed near Redwood Avenue. WHO 13 crews were on the scene. …In Newton, at least 17 people were taken to hospitals following a potential chemical exposure incident at the Newton Correctional Facility. The Iowa Department of Corrections says emergency protocols were put in place while the incident was investigated. …Around the country, a shooting in downtown Minneapolis left three people dead, including the suspect, and five others wounded, including two Minneapolis police officers. …Here in Iowa, the University of Iowa is honoring longtime broadcaster Gary Dolphin. The radio booth at Kinnick Stadium will be named after Dolphin, who spent 30 years as the play-by-play voice for Hawkeye football and men’s basketball. …Now, let’s talk gas prices. The average price for regular unleaded in Iowa is $3.89 a gallon, down 14 cents from last week. But that is still $1.05 higher than a year ago. And if you are hunting for a bargain, Sinclair in West Des Moines is listed at $3.39 a gallon. …And now, your central Iowa weather. It is going to be hot. Really hot. Today will be partly cloudy with a high around 96 and a 20% chance of rain. Friday could reach 97, with Saturday around 95. The allergy alert is also elevated. Today’s pollen level is 11.5, in the high range. Top allergens include nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …Now for something a little more fun. Tonight, the Des Moines Symphony is hosting an art open house at Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday night is First Friday at Mainframe Studios. And Saturday night, the Des Moines Symphony presents “7 Bridges: The Symphonic Eagles Experience” at 7:30 p.m. It features music from the Eagles, including “Hotel California,” “Desperado” and “Take It Easy.” Then Sunday, the symphony presents a free family festival and concert at Water Works Park, with activities beginning at 4 p.m. and the concert at 5:30. …Here is a look at today in history. On Sept. 3, 1783, the Treaty of Paris was signed, officially ending the American Revolution and recognizing the independence of the United States. In 1928, Scottish bacteriologist Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin after noticing that mold had killed bacteria on an uncovered laboratory plate. …And now, today’s morning chuckle: How do you know if an ant is a boy or a girl? 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. …That is your Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, Sept. 3. Have a great Thursday. Stay cool, stay hydrated — and if your city wants that Buc-ee’s, apparently now is the time to make your pitch.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, central Iowa. It is Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, and this is your Daily Umbrella Podcast. Let’s get started….The Urbandale City Council has rejected a request to change the land use designation for about 20 acres near Northwest 100th Street and Northpark Drive. That is where Buc-ee’s had proposed building a new travel center. The property is owned by former Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie, who plans to sell it to Buc-ee’s. Traffic was one of the council’s biggest concerns. Buc-ee’s Real Estate Director Stan Beard told the council the company’s engineers would address those issues. For now, though, the proposal is rejected. …Iowa officials are also sounding the alarm about kratom. Gov. Kim Reynolds, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety are raising concerns about the substance. State officials report 45 kratom-associated deaths since 2024, along with an increase in exposure calls. Kratom is increasingly available at gas stations, smoke shops and other retailers. State officials say they want Iowans to be aware of the potential risks. …Libraries are also facing some difficult decisions. In Des Moines, City Manager Scott Sanders has proposed $750,000 in cuts to the Des Moines Public Library. The proposal is part of a larger effort to deal with an anticipated $12 million to $17 million budget shortfall over the next two years. Part of the problem stems from a new Iowa property tax law that caps property tax increases at 2% from year to year. …Around the world, tensions are rising again between the United States and Iran. Iran fired on U.S. allies in the Gulf early Wednesday. That followed a night of U.S. military strikes against Iran. The latest violence ends a monthlong lull in fighting. And it comes as the war continues to affect oil prices, the global economy and the political landscape heading toward the November midterm elections. …Around the state, Iowa City is considering more police downtown. The Iowa City City Council delayed a vote Tuesday on adding three full-time police officers to downtown patrols. The vote was 4-3 to delay the proposal. The plan follows months of discussion about downtown safety after a shooting in April injured five people. The three positions would cost the city about $370,000. The city estimates it could save about $88,000 in overtime once the positions are filled. …Now, let’s check the weather. Today will be partly cloudy, with a high near 94 and a low around 75. There is a 20% chance of rain. Thursday looks similar. Partly cloudy, with a high of 93 and a low of 74. Rain chances remain at 20%. Friday brings another partly cloudy day, with a high near 92 and a low around 72. The chance of rain increases slightly, to 30%. And for allergy sufferers, today's pollen level is in the high range. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …A little history for Sept. 2. On this date in 1945, Japan formally surrendered aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. That brought World War II to an end. Fifty years later, in 1995, Michael Jackson's “You Are Not Alone” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was his 12th and final solo No. 1 hit. And in 2013, Diana Nyad became the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. The swim covered about 110 miles and took approximately 53 hours. …And we will finish with today's morning chuckle. The question is: What did the bottled water tell the spy? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, central Iowa. It is Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026. Here is your Daily Umbrella Podcast morning update. Let’s get started. …Two people are dead after an overnight house fire in Des Moines. Des Moines firefighters were called to a home in the 1400 block of Tiffin Avenue at about 2 a.m. Tuesday. According to Des Moines Fire Lt. Gene Emery, two people died. …Meanwhile, in Polk County, supervisors have approved what is being called a historic, long-term lease agreement with Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino. The Polk County Board of Supervisors approved the agreement Monday. That agreement is expected to provide long-term financial stability for the county. …Around the country, rescuers in the Grand Canyon have recovered the bodies of two people following a major flash flood. About 80 people were rescued over the weekend. One person remains missing. The flooding also severely damaged the only water pipeline serving Grand Canyon National Park. …Now for something a little lighter. A recent study says Oreo is the most talked-about food and snack brand on social media in the United States. There are 11.4 million Instagram and TikTok posts using the Oreo hashtag. That’s a lot of cookies. The study was conducted by digital marketing consultant Chris Laas using YouGov data and social media statistics. Clearly, people have opinions about cookies. And maybe more importantly, people have opinions about how to eat them. Do you dunk it? Twist it apart? Eat the cream first? Eat the chocolate wafers first? Put it in ice cream? Or do you eat an entire sleeve and then quietly put the empty package back in the cupboard? …Now, let’s check the weather. Tuesday will be partly cloudy, with a high of 93 and a low of 73. There is a 20% chance of rain. Wednesday will also be partly cloudy. The high will be 93, with a low of 74. Rain chances are 20%. Thursday looks a little warmer. Expect partly cloudy skies, with a high of 94 and a low of 74. The rain chance Thursday is 30%. And if you are dealing with allergies this morning, the pollen count is listed at 11.6, in the high range. The top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …Let’s get to sports. The Chicago Cubs had quite a night Monday. They hit a franchise-record nine home runs in a rout of the Milwaukee Brewers. That included three home runs by third baseman Alex Bregman. It was his second three-homer game of August. And in international soccer, Lionel Messi has retired from international competition with Argentina. Messi finished his international career with 207 appearances and 125 goals. He also won a World Cup and two Copa América titles. …On this date in history, Sept. 1, 1972, American chess grandmaster Bobby Fischer defeated Boris Spassky in Reykjavik, Iceland. And Sept. 1 also marks one of the deadliest natural disasters in history. In 1923, the Great Kanto earthquake struck Japan. The magnitude 7.9 earthquake devastated Tokyo and Yokohama. More than 140,000 people died. …And finally, your morning chuckle. Yesterday, we asked why water never laughs at jokes. The answers included: Because it does not like a dry sense of humor. Because it is all wet. And because it “harbors” a lot of resentment. Today’s riddle is a little tougher. What do you get when you throw a billion books into the ocean? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, Iowa. It is Monday, Aug. 31, and this is the Daily Umbrella Podcast. Here is what is making news this morning. …Iowa is facing a shortage of high school sports officials as the 2026 football season gets underway. The Iowa High School Athletic Association says about 1,000 referees are registered for the upcoming season. That is about 350 fewer than last year. The association does not assign officials to games, so it cannot say exactly how the shortage will affect individual schools and schedules. Officials with the association remain optimistic that all games will be covered, although some adjustments could be necessary. For anyone who has ever sat through a high school football game and complained about a referee's call, this might be a good time to remember that somebody actually has to volunteer to wear the stripes. And apparently, there are fewer people lining up for the job. …In business and hospitality news, 40 Iowa women are being recognized as leaders to watch in the hospitality industry. The Iowa Restaurant Association has announced its 2026 class of 40 Women to Watch in Hospitality. Half of this year's honorees work in central Iowa. The honorees will be recognized Oct. 19 during the Iowa Hospitality Showcase and Celebrating Excellence Awards at Prairie Meadows in Altoona. …Des Moines Public Schools says a burst eight-inch fire sprinkler pipe caused flooding at its Central Nutrition Center over the weekend. The district notified families Sunday evening.Around Iowa, Cedar Rapids man has been sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing more than 700 fentanyl pills with the intent to distribute them. …And around the country, Google Maps has begun displaying the name "Lake America" for Lake Ontario for users in the United States following President Donald Trump's order changing the lake's name. …In sports, Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has been placed on the commissioner's exempt list following misdemeanor charges stemming from an alleged incident in May. And Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy survived the team's final roster cuts, despite speculation that he could be on the bubble. …Now, let's talk weather. It is going to be another hot one across central Iowa. The National Weather Service has a heat advisory in effect from this afternoon through Wednesday evening in parts of the area. Expect humid conditions today with partial sunshine and a high around 92 degrees. There is a chance for a few thunderstorms this afternoon, and some storms could produce heavy rain and strong wind gusts. Tuesday will remain hot, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s and another chance of thunderstorms. Wednesday stays hot as well, with highs in the mid-90s. So, if you are heading outside, remember the basics: drink plenty of water, take breaks from the heat and do not underestimate the combination of high temperatures and humidity. The Daily Umbrella's allergy report lists nettle, chenopods and ragweed among today's top allergens. …And before we go, today's morning chuckle comes in the form of a riddle. The answer to yesterday's question — what keeps a dock floating above water? Pier pressure! Today's question: Why does water never laugh at jokes? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, Des Moines. Today is Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, and this is The Daily Umbrella Podcast. Here is what is happening around central Iowa today. …More than 100 Marshalltown residents turned out for a public meeting about a potential data center development. The biggest concerns? Environmental impacts and what the project could mean visually for the community. Residents questioned what the proposed development would look like, where it would be located and what it could bring to the area. The project is still in the discussion stage, but the turnout shows that residents are paying close attention. …The city of Des Moines is looking at $11.5 million in budget cuts over the next two fiscal years. More than 43 city jobs could be affected, including positions being eliminated as the city works to reduce spending. City Manager Scott Sanders says 15 people have already been laid off as officials look for ways to balance the budget. That means fewer dollars — and potentially fewer people — providing city services in the years ahead. …A group of Warren County landowners is celebrating after a judge ruled in their favor following an eight-month legal battle. The case involved rezoning approved by the Warren County Board of Supervisors to allow a gun club to open. The judge ruled that the rezoning was done illegally. …And now for a name that may take some getting used to. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the U.S. Department of the Interior to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” in the United States. The move comes amid escalating tensions between the United States and Canada. There is one small problem for anyone hoping the new name catches on everywhere: The United States cannot force Canada to use it. So, if you are visiting the Canadian side, you might want to stick with Lake Ontario. ...Today will be mostly sunny, with a high of 85 and a low of 69. There is a 20% chance of rain. Saturday brings scattered storms, with a high of 88 and a low of 76 and a 30% chance of rain. Sunday could be the hottest day of the weekend, with clouds, wind and a high near 94. The rain chance is 30%. Today's top allergens are nettle, chenopods and ragweed. …On Aug. 28, 1917, women’s suffragists picketed outside the White House, demanding that President Woodrow Wilson support a constitutional amendment guaranteeing women the right to vote. In 1952, the presidential campaign was dominated by the Red Scare and accusations about communism in America. And in 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington. About 250,000 people attended the event, which called for voting rights, equal opportunity and an end to racial segregation and discrimination. …Yesterday, readers tackled this morning chuckle question: Why should you never drink toilet water? The answer? Number one and number two! Today's question: What keeps a dock floating above the water? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, Des Moines. Today is Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, and this is The Daily Umbrella Podcast. Here is what you need to know this morning. …First, the big local story: Des Moines is walking away from plans for a downtown soccer stadium. The city announced Wednesday that it has ended seven years of negotiations with the Krause Group over a proposed stadium at the former DICO site in downtown Des Moines. The project was expected to cost about $90 million. After seven years of talks, the deal is officially off the field. The decision ends a long-running effort to bring a professional soccer stadium to downtown. The city has not been shy about the fact that it faces some significant financial challenges, either. …Des Moines City Manager Scott Sanders has proposed $11.5 million in budget cuts and revenue changes as the city confronts an estimated $17 million shortfall in fiscal years 2028 and 2029. So, while soccer fans may be disappointed, city officials have some pretty big numbers to juggle. …And speaking of numbers, let’s talk about gasoline. The statewide average for regular unleaded in Iowa is now $4.03 a gallon, according to Triple A. That is down 10 cents from last week, although it is still $1.15 more than a year ago. The national average Wednesday was $4.10 a gallon. Diesel is another story. The Iowa average jumped 16 cents this week to $5.41 a gallon. If you are looking for the cheapest gas in the metro area, the Daily Umbrella reports a price of $3.79 a gallon at Casey’s in Mitchellville. …Looking ahead to the weekend, there is plenty to do. The World Food and Music Festival takes over downtown Des Moines Friday through Sunday. The free festival features food vendors and musical acts and has been recognized as one of the top cultural festivals in America. Ballet Des Moines also is offering a preview of its upcoming season at Water Works Park and the Lauridsen Amphitheater. Food and activities begin at 5 p.m., with the performance at 6:30. And Saturday brings Ingersoll LIVE, a neighborhood block party on the 2800 block of Ingersoll Avenue from 3 to 10 p.m. There will be two stages of live music, food, drinks, vendors and performances from local dance groups. …Now, let’s check the weather. For Des Moines today, expect mostly sunny skies with temperatures climbing into the low 80s. The National Weather Service says the next couple of days should stay relatively comfortable, with shower and thunderstorm chances returning Friday night into Saturday. And if your nose has already told you that fall is approaching, it is not imagining things. Today’s allergy alert is in the high range. ...A few more things to know this morning: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff through sunset Sept. 1 to honor Dolly Parton, following a presidential proclamation recognizing her contributions as an entertainer, philanthropist and advocate. Around the world, rescue teams are searching for hundreds of people missing after catastrophic flooding along the Nepal-Tibet border. More than 270 people have been reported dead. And in the sports world, the NFL is eliminating the Pro Bowl Games beginning this season. The league will still name 88 Pro Bowl players, but the competitive all-star game itself is going away. …And we will close with today's morning chuckle: Why should you never drink toilet water? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, Des Moines, and happy Wednesday. This is your Daily Umbrella Podcast for Aug. 26, 2026. We take a quick look at what is happening around central Iowa, a little news from beyond our borders, and your weather and allergy report. Let’s get started. …Dolly Parton was known around the world for her music, songwriting and acting. But one of her most lasting legacies may have nothing to do with a recording studio or a movie set. It is books. Parton’s Imagination Library continues to provide free books to young children, including children across Iowa. The program has become one of the best-known literacy efforts in the country, putting books into the hands of children every month at no cost to their families. The news comes as Iowa communities continue to benefit from the program following Parton’s death Tuesday at age 80 after a career spanning six decades. …The Des Moines City Council has unanimously approved a six-month pilot program to provide secure storage lockers. St. Vincent de Paul of Des Moines will operate the program at its location at 1426 Sixth Ave., just north of downtown. The plan calls for 12 gym-sized lockers. The purpose is pretty straightforward: Give people a secure place to keep important personal belongings. Birth certificates. Identification. Personal documents. Clothing. Other possessions that might not be worth much financially but could be extremely difficult to replace. …Seven Des Moines schools dismissed students early Tuesday following a water main break on the city’s north side. Cowles Montessori, Hillis Elementary, Hoover High, Hubbell Elementary, Meredith Middle, Moore Elementary and Perkins Elementary sent students home at 10 a.m. Des Moines Public Schools said families at the affected schools were notified. Part of Douglas Avenue was also closed because of the break. …Internationally, the trade war between the United States and Canada escalated Tuesday as Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on about $20 billion worth of American goods, including steel, dairy products, appliances and farm equipment. …Closer to home, opposition is growing in rural Nebraska over proposed artificial intelligence data centers. Interestingly, that opposition is crossing traditional political lines, with conservative farmers and environmental advocates finding common ground in their concerns about the speed and scale of data-center development.And, on this date in sports history, Aug. 26, 1939, the first televised Major League Baseball game was broadcast. The Cincinnati Reds played the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field, with legendary announcer Red Barber calling the game. …For Des Moines today, expect a mostly pleasant summer day after some patchy morning fog. Temperatures will climb into the mid-80s, with a cooler night settling in. Thursday looks sunny to partly cloudy and remains comfortable for late August. Friday will be warmer, with temperatures again reaching the mid-80s. The weekend turns warmer, with Saturday approaching the upper 80s and Sunday potentially reaching the low 90s. Thunderstorm chances return later in the weekend. The Daily Umbrella's allergy report puts today's pollen level at 10.9, in the high range. Ragweed season has arrived. …Today's morning chuckle asks: What happens when you get water on a table? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026. Here are the top stories you need to know. …We begin in southern Iowa, where a measles outbreak has grown to 17 confirmed cases, according to Iowa Health and Human Services. That is two more cases than the department’s previous update. Officials also identified a new potential exposure location. Anyone who visited Sunnyside Grocery in Bloomfield on Aug. 15 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. may have been exposed to measles. If you were in that area during that time, health officials are urging you to be aware of possible symptoms and follow guidance from Iowa Health and Human Services. …Here is some good news from the Iowa State Fair. Food vendors donated 11,000 pounds of food to the Food Bank of Iowa this year — nearly twice as much as last year. And one contribution really stands out: The Iowa Egg Council donated 6,912 pounds of hard-boiled eggs. …If your calendar is not already full this week, there are several food events worth considering. On Thursday, Aug. 27, Wilson Ciderhouse is hosting a Sturgeon Moon dinner featuring seven seafood courses inspired by chef Jacob Demars’ roots in Cape Ann, Massachusetts. There is one seating at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, brings the Historic Corn Plot Dinner at Wallace Farm in Orient. The dinner celebrates Pioneer Hi-Bred’s centennial and will feature corn grown at the farm. Also beginning Friday and continuing through Sunday is the World Food & Music Festival at Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines. …Now, let’s check the weather… and the air. Today will be partly cloudy, with a high around 86 degrees and a low tonight near 68. There is about a 20% chance of rain. Wednesday looks mostly sunny, with a high around 84 and a low near 64. Thursday should also be mostly sunny, with a high around 84 and a low near 62. And if your nose has been telling you something is going on outside, it is not imagining things. The allergy outlook is elevated today, with weeds among the primary concerns. The Daily Umbrella's allergy report specifically lists nettle, chenopods and ragweed as the top allergens. Ragweed is particularly worth watching this time of year, as weed pollen becomes a bigger problem heading into fall. …Publisher Shane Goodman shares in his column how he spent part of his weekend driving Iowa’s county roads, which he says is one of the best ways to discover that you can go a long way in Iowa without actually getting anywhere in particular. And that got him thinking about those little roadside signs we tend to ignore: Iowa’s mile markers. They are not really there to tell us exactly how many miles we have traveled. Iowa DOT now more accurately calls them “reference posts.” The physical posts are placed at approximately one-mile intervals, but they can be as much as 1.04 miles apart. So do not get angry at your odometer when Mile 100 and Mile 101 do not turn out to be exactly one mile apart. …And finally, today’s Morning Chuckle asks: What song is it when a guy throws his laptop into the ocean? 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. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Monday, Aug. 24, 2026. Here are the top stories you need to know. …The search has resumed for a boater who went overboard Saturday evening in the Des Moines River. Around 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies and personnel from multiple fire departments responded to reports that a boater had gone overboard and had not resurfaced. The incident happened in an area of the river northwest of Highland Park. First responders suspended the search Saturday night, but crews returned Sunday as the effort continued. …Meanwhile, Flock cameras are facing growing opposition in central Iowa. Protesters gathered Thursday evening outside the Kwik Star between Altoona and Bondurant to challenge the use of Flock cameras. The protesters cited privacy concerns and alleged violations of Fourth Amendment rights. Flock cameras are automatic license plate readers that capture photographs and video of vehicles. Supporters say the technology can help law enforcement identify vehicles connected to crimes, while opponents have raised concerns about surveillance and the collection of information on drivers who may not have done anything wrong. The central Iowa protest reflects a broader debate over how communities should balance public safety with privacy as law enforcement agencies adopt increasingly sophisticated technology. …Now, a little business news from around central Iowa. Casey’s has purchased the family-owned Pak-a-Sak chain in Texas.Here in central Iowa, several new restaurants are opening. Lux-Modern Asian Gastro has opened just off Interstate 80 on Grand Prairie Parkway in Waukee. The restaurant features higher-end Asian dining, including craft cocktails and wood-grilled steaks. Red Anchor Sushi & Seafood Buffet has opened on Adventureland Drive in Altoona. And Hoang Khao, featuring Lao and Thai cuisine, has opened on Oralabor Road in Ankeny. Yemnella, described as Iowa’s first Yemeni coffee shop, is also coming soon to Jordan Creek Parkway. And after 14 years, Papa Kerns Cafe has permanently closed and will not reopen following the fair. …Here’s a bit of history for Aug. 24. On this date in 79 A.D., Mount Vesuvius erupted in southern Italy, devastating Pompeii and Herculaneum. In 1814, British troops entered Washington, D.C., and burned the White House during the War of 1812. And 20 years ago today, in 2006, Pluto was officially demoted from planet status when the International Astronomical Union classified it as a dwarf planet. That decision still generates more emotional debate than you might expect from an object nearly 3 billion miles away. …And finally, today’s riddle. Yesterday’s question was: “H20 is water, but what is H204?” The answer? SWIMMING. Or DRINKING. Or. WASHING. Irving Stone, Anne Lentz, Gail Tomlinson, Donna Willems all had good answers. Here’s today’s riddle: Who carries out operations in water? 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. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, central Iowa. It’s Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, and this is your Daily Umbrella Podcast. Here are some of the stories, oddities and weekend happenings making news today. …Let’s start with politics. The Cook Political Report has shifted Iowa’s U.S. Senate race from leaning Republican to a toss-up. The change reflects a tightening contest between Republican Ashley Hinson and Democrat Josh Turek. According to the report, some private polling now shows Turek ahead, although the results are within the margin of error. The Cook Political Report also says Iowa’s governor’s race is leaning Democratic. Democrat Rob Sand, Iowa’s state auditor and the only Democrat currently holding statewide office, is running against Republican Zach Lane, a Belle Plaine farmer and entrepreneur. …A Friday hearing in the Kristin Ramsey case — involving the killing of Ashley Oakland — is expected to focus on claims of grand jury misconduct. The judge recently narrowed the hearing to legal arguments rather than the previously scheduled discussion about possibly dismissing Ramsey’s first-degree murder charge. …Meanwhile, some Iowa police departments are suspending the use of Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras. The cameras record information about passing vehicles and retain that data for possible use in future investigations. Critics, including Altoona resident Heather Ryan, say the technology represents government overreach. …And in Dallas Center, a woman has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after admitting to a fraud scheme involving more than $572,000 from a cattle feedlot where she worked as an office manager. …Omaha police have agreed to stop carrying electric-shock gloves in Nebraska’s largest public school district. The decision follows an Associated Press report about plans to provide the devices to Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. …And now, the story you probably didn’t know you needed. Oscar Mayer is celebrating its 90th birthday, and apparently a regular birthday cake just wasn’t enough. The company has created what it calls a Weiner Cake — spelled W-E-I-N-E-R — consisting of 90 hot dogs stacked in two tiers. That’s right: 90 hot dogs. Somewhere, a child is looking at a birthday cake and thinking, “Finally, somebody got it right.” …Here is your weekend forecast, and it looks like a pretty good one. Today will be mostly sunny with a high around 85 and a low of 65, with just a 10% chance of rain. Saturday should be sunny, with a high of 82 and a low of 61. The rain chance is essentially zero. Sunday will be mostly sunny, with a high near 79 and a 20% chance of rain. …The current issue of CITYVIEW magazine features a story about Iowa artist Ana Mendieta, who reached a career zenith this summer, 41 years after her murder. A retrospective of Mendieta’s work opened at London’s Tate Modern in July. It includes more than 120 works tracing her breakout years in Iowa City through 1984 and is the largest-ever U.K. exhibition of her work. …And finally, today’s riddle. Yesterday’s question was: Why are some fish at the bottom of the ocean? The answer? They dropped out of school! Of course, readers came up with alternatives. One suggested they’ve been “schooled” not to get caught. Another answer: Because they’re bottom feeders. And today’s question is even more suspicious: H2O is water. But what is H2O4? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella podcast for Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026. Here are some of the stories and information making news around Iowa and beyond. …We’ll start with a troubling trend in Iowa high school athletics. Eight Iowa high schools have canceled their varsity football seasons this fall because of safety concerns and low participation numbers. According to the Iowa High School Athletic Association, the schools include Davis County in Class 2A; Central Decatur and New London in Class A; and Exira-EHK, Lone Tree, Mormon Trail, Rockford and Siouxland Christian in the eight-player division. For many Iowa communities, high school football is about more than Friday night games. It’s a tradition, a gathering place and a source of community pride. But schools are increasingly having to balance that tradition with concerns about having enough players to safely field a team. …In Des Moines, a car crashed into a senior living complex Wednesday afternoon. According to WHO-TV, a Chevrolet Impala drove into a community room at Southridge Senior Residences along the 1200 block of Cummins Road at about 4:30 p.m. Des Moines Fire Chief Jonathan Lund said the vehicle struck a load-bearing column, causing part of the complex to become unsafe. The incident remains under investigation. …In Stuart, a woman killed in a shooting is being remembered for her kindness. According to WOI, Austin Reed is facing first-degree murder charges in the death of Toni Elena-Ann Salazar. Reed also faces an attempted murder charge in connection with the shooting of Iowa State Patrol Trooper Chase Carruthers, who was injured. For people in Stuart, the shooting has had a very personal impact. …If you’re filling up your vehicle this morning, you’ve probably noticed that gas prices are moving in the wrong direction. According to AAA, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Iowa is now $4.13 a gallon. That’s a 34-cent increase from last week and $1.24 higher than a year ago. The national average Wednesday was $4.09 a gallon, up 5 cents from the previous week. Diesel prices also increased in Iowa, rising 20 cents this week to an average of $5.25 a gallon. For comparison, Iowa diesel averaged $3.52 a gallon one year ago. If you’re looking for the cheapest gas in the Des Moines metro, the Daily Umbrella reports that Mega Saver in Johnston, at 6130 N.W. 86th Street, was listed at $3.78 a gallon. Mega Saver in Ankeny was at $3.85, while the Mega Saver in Urbandale was at $3.86. So, yes, that $3.78 price is looking pretty good right now. …It should be a fairly pleasant Thursday across central Iowa. Today’s forecast calls for partly cloudy skies, with a high around 83 degrees and a low tonight near 67. There’s a 20% chance of rain. Friday looks similar, with a high of 85 and a 20% chance of rain. And Saturday should be mostly sunny, with a high around 83 and no rain in the forecast. …Yesterday’s riddle asked: Where can you find an ocean with no water? The answer: On a map! Congratulations to Gail Tomlinson and Judy Anderson, who submitted that answer. And now for today’s question: Why are some fish at the bottom of the ocean? 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. … And that’s your Daily Umbrella for Thursday, Aug. 20. Thanks for listening, and have a great Thursday.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026. Here’s what’s happening across Iowa and beyond. …We begin in Stuart, where a shooting Tuesday afternoon left a woman dead and an Iowa State Patrol trooper injured. According to Iowa Division of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Adam DeCamp, Adair County dispatch received a call around 3:35 p.m. reporting shots fired in the 200 block of Southwest Sixth Street. The investigation remains ongoing, and the suspect is in custody. …The Iowa State Fair is proving once again that Iowans really like their corn dogs, livestock, butter sculptures and deep-fried everything. For the second consecutive day, the fair broke an attendance record. The fair reported 111,159 visitors Monday. That surpassed the previous Monday attendance record of 105,522, set in 2017. And Sunday was a record-breaker, too, with 123,140 people attending — surpassing the previous record for the first Sunday of the fair, set in 2024. …Gov. Kim Reynolds and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have announced two new peer-support drug prevention programs coming to Iowa. The programs are part of the Trump administration’s “Great American Recovery Plan.” According to Kennedy, Iowa is the first state in the nation to participate in the program. …Around Iowa, Johnson County taxpayers are also taking a closer look at a proposed $94 million jail. A bond referendum for the new Johnson County jail will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot. Land has already been purchased for the project, although voters have not yet approved the proposal. New renderings show the jail would be located off Melrose Avenue near the historic “poor farm.” An informational meeting Tuesday gave taxpayers an opportunity to ask questions about the project. …And now, the weather. For the Des Moines area today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high around 80 and a low of 63. There’s a 20% chance of rain. Thursday looks similar, with a high of 81 and a low of 66 and another 20% chance of rain. Friday brings isolated storms, with a high near 83 and a low of 63. The chance of rain increases to 30%. …Here’s a number that might hurt almost as much as stepping on a Lego. The average price of a Big Mac has jumped from $1.99 in 1995 to $6.72 today — a 337% increase. And large fries have gone from $1.29 to $5.39, a 417% increase. In other words, the days of grabbing a cheap burger and fries may officially belong in the history books. …On this date in 1791, Benjamin Banneker wrote to Thomas Jefferson, urging justice for African Americans and challenging Jefferson’s position on slavery. In 1909, the first race was held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. And on Aug. 19, 1964, The Beatles began their first U.S. tour at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. …And finally, today’s Daily Umbrella morning chuckle. Yesterday’s riddle asked what happened when a musical act left an outdoor stage because of a thunderstorm. The answer? The audience left with “reckless a-band-done!” Today’s question: Where can you find an ocean with no water? 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. …That’s your Daily Umbrella for Wednesday, Aug. 19. Thanks for listening, have a great day, and remember: If you’re headed to the State Fair, leave early, bring comfortable shoes and prepare yourself emotionally for the price of a corn dog.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Tuesday, Aug. 18. Here are the stories making news around Des Moines and beyond. …Indianola is the latest Iowa community to suspend its use of Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras. According to WHO-TV, the Indianola Police Department has eight Flock Safety cameras. The department says the city is joining several Iowa communities — as well as police departments around the country — that have suspended their automated license plate reader programs. Flock cameras are designed to capture license plate information and other vehicle details that can be used by law enforcement. The decision in Indianola comes as communities continue to debate how these systems should be used and what safeguards should be in place. …Iowa health officials are reporting a dozen confirmed cases of measles in southern Iowa. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced the cases Monday as part of an outbreak in the region. Iowa HHS says state and local public health agencies are working with affected families and community leaders to identify illnesses, share information and make sure people have access to vaccinations. Measles is highly contagious, so health officials are urging people to pay attention to information from public health agencies as the investigation continues. …A Des Moines man accused of shooting a Muscatine police officer during a traffic stop has been arrested. According to KCCI, Mark Lee Jackson was arrested Monday in Muscatine after three days on the run. Police say Jackson allegedly shot the officer during a traffic stop Friday. The Muscatine police chief says the officer has been released from the hospital and is recovering at home. …Immigration enforcement is also making headlines. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is proposing to subsidize liability insurance for state and local police officers who are trained and deputized to enforce federal immigration laws. The proposal is intended to help protect officers from potential financial consequences if they are accused of misconduct while making immigration arrests. The plan was outlined in a document published Friday. …A ship was struck by a projectile early Tuesday while sailing out of the Strait of Hormuz, according to the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center. An Iranian official also said the strategic shipping route would not reopen until the United States meets Iran's conditions. The Strait of Hormuz is a major route for global energy shipments, making developments there important far beyond the Middle East. …Now, let's check the forecast for central Iowa. Today will bring scattered thunderstorms, with a high around 81 degrees and a 70% chance of rain. Tonight's low will be around 66. Wednesday looks considerably quieter, with partly cloudy skies, a high of 81 and a 20% chance of rain. Thursday will be partly cloudy with some clouds, a high near 80 and another 20% chance of rain. …We will leave you with today's groaner from the Daily Umbrella. The question was: What is it called when big, hairy spiders rain down out of the sky? The answer? A tarantula downpour! And today's riddle: What happened when the musical act left the outdoor stage because of a thunderstorm? 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. …That's The Des Moines Daily Umbrella for Tuesday, Aug. 18. Thanks for listening, and have a great day.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning. Here are the top stories and headlines from the Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, edition of the Daily Umbrella. …Des Moines police are investigating a shots-fired incident in downtown Des Moines, and three handguns have been recovered. Police say officers were patrolling the Court Avenue entertainment district around 2 a.m. Sunday when they heard gunfire near Fourth Street and Court Avenue. The investigation remains ongoing. …More than 120 people were safely evacuated after a hotel partially collapsed in Burlington on Saturday. The incident occurred at the Comfort Suites after the fire department was dispatched following an early morning fire alarm. No additional details were provided in the report. …At the Iowa State Fair, organizers have announced a replacement act for Colt Ford. Emerging country-rock artist Sterling Elza will fill in for Ford, who canceled his performance after suffering a broken shoulder in a bus crash last week. …The Iowa State Fair is also providing plenty of opportunities for political candidates to connect with voters. U.S. Reps. Zach Nunn and Ashley Hinson joined Sen. Chuck Grassley to discuss Iowa businesses, manufacturing and trade. Gubernatorial candidates Rob Sand and Zach Lahn also met fairgoers, served food and outlined their priorities at the Des Moines Register Political Soapbox. …Around the world, President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea. Trump cited South Korea's decision not to help with the war against Iran and pointed to his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. …In Hawaii, Tropical Storm Lala weakened Sunday after bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the islands without making landfall. Officials said the storm's winds and rain were strong enough to sweep around 100 homes off their foundations on the Big Island. …Today's weather calls for abundant sunshine, with a high of 82 and a low of 67. The rain chance is zero percent. Tuesday brings a 40% chance of scattered thunderstorms, with a high of 85. Wednesday also has a chance of scattered thunderstorms, with a high of 80. …In sports, the Minnesota Vikings will be without veteran defender Jamal Adams for the 2026 season because of a right knee injury suffered Saturday in a preseason victory over the New York Giants. Former major league pitcher Tommy John has died at age 83. John was a four-time All-Star who won 288 games during a 26-year career. He became best known for the elbow surgery that bears his name after undergoing the procedure in 1974. And Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever defeated the Atlanta Dream 95-91 in overtime Sunday. The teams entered the game separated by just a half-game in the playoff standings, with 10 games remaining in the regular season. …Finally, today's morning chuckle is a riddle. What is it called when big, hairy spiders rain down out of the sky? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. Here are the stories you need to know to start your day. …The American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa has filed a federal lawsuit against the state on behalf of The Satanic Temple after the group was denied permission to hold an event in the Iowa Capitol rotunda. According to the ACLU of Iowa, The Satanic Temple applied in 2024 to hold a holiday display in the rotunda but was denied. Previous displays had been allowed but were vandalized. The lawsuit raises questions about free speech, religious expression and how public spaces are made available to different groups. …Story County officials are considering whether to renew a contract for Flock Safety cameras in Ames. The cameras have generated controversy over who has access to the information they collect. Last October, police departments that were not authorized to access the data were able to do so. The supervisors have expressed concerns about access to the information. And Flock Safety is responding to growing criticism across the country. The surveillance technology company announced changes to its license plate reader platform Thursday in an effort to address privacy concerns and documented abuses of its system by some members of law enforcement. …If you are headed to the Iowa State Fair tonight, there is a change to the Grandstand lineup. John Waite will perform at 8 p.m., replacing Rod Stewart, who canceled his Friday night performance. Waite is the singer-songwriter behind hits including “Missing You” and “When I See You Smile.” The concert is free, and no Grandstand ticket is required. …A man is facing an animal abuse charge after Iowa City police say he dragged a dog from an electric scooter. The incident happened Aug. 5 near Broadway Street and Sandusky Drive. According to a criminal complaint, an officer saw a man riding an electric scooter with something dragging behind him. The officer realized it was a small dog and stopped the man. The complaint says the dog’s body was “flopping around like a ragdoll.” …Food Dude Jim Duncan takes a look at an Iowa icon in his latest CITYVIEW feature: the Big Steer restaurant in Altoona. Duncan writes about Des Moines’ history of being hard on its icons, from public art to old buildings to giant cows. The Big Steer’s roadside cow has been standing along Adventureland Drive since 1984. Unlike Anderson Erickson’s giant cows, Annie and Eric, the Altoona cow has never been given a name. But the Big Steer has earned plenty of recognition as the home of “Iowa’s finest prime rib” and as one of the few surviving veterans of Iowa’s wind-grieved supper club era. …In sports, Kyle Schwarber had quite a night in Iowa. The Philadelphia Phillies slugger hit two home runs into an Iowa cornfield Thursday night as Philadelphia defeated the Minnesota Twins. Schwarber, who grew up in Middletown, Ohio, played college baseball at Indiana and spent his first six major league seasons with the Chicago Cubs. …On this date in history, Aug. 14, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law. In 1985, Michael Jackson purchased the publishing rights to the vast majority of the Beatles’ catalog for $47 million. And in 2003, one of the largest blackouts in North American history hit the northeastern United States and parts of Canada. Fifty million people were affected. …And finally, today’s morning chuckle. Yesterday’s riddle asked: What is a frog’s favorite type of music? The answer? Hip hop! Today’s question is: Why did the meteorologists name their bowling team Lightning? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured in the next edition.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, Aug. 13. Here are the stories and things you need to know to get your day started. …First, we have some weather to talk about. The Local 5 Weather Team has issued a Weather Impact Alert for today because of the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms this morning. Those storms are expected to move through central Iowa during the morning hours, creating a potentially disruptive start to the Iowa State Fair. Today’s forecast calls for morning thunderstorms, a high near 85 degrees, a low of 70 and an 80% chance of rain. Friday also brings a chance of morning thunderstorms, with a high of 86 and a 40% chance of rain. The good news? Saturday is looking mostly sunny, with a high near 89 and only a 20% chance of rain. So, if you are heading to the State Fair today, keep an eye on the weather, be prepared for storms and remember that fried food tastes just as good after the rain stops. …Speaking of the Iowa State Fair, Des Moines police are putting extra emphasis on safety as more than a million people are expected to visit the fairgrounds over the next 10 days. Police say they are addressing potential risks and raising awareness about everything from large crowds to illegal drug activity. As Sgt. Paul Parizek of the Des Moines Police Department put it, you would be naive to think drug dealers are not looking at the fair as a place where they could sell a lot of drugs. So, enjoy the food, the rides, the animals, the concerts and everything else the fair has to offer — but keep your eyes open and your belongings close. …Now, let’s talk about something that affects nearly all of us: gasoline prices. According to AAA, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Iowa is $3.79 per gallon. That is unchanged from last week, but it is up 91 cents from a year ago. The national average Wednesday was $4.04 per gallon, down 4 cents from the previous week. For those looking for a bargain around the metro, GasBuddy lists regular gasoline at $3.38 per gallon at Mega Saver in Urbandale. Mega Saver in Ankeny was at $3.41, while Murphy USA in Altoona was at $3.46. …Yesterday’s Morning Chuckle had two possible answers. Why are frogs so happy? Because they eat whatever bugs them! Or, as another answer suggested: Because they live in swamp heaven! Today’s Morning Chuckle asks: What is a frog’s favorite type of music? 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. …Looking for events happening around central Iowa? “Finding Nemo Jr.” is being presented by the Penguin Project at the Des Moines Playhouse today through Sunday. Ankeny Community Theatre is presenting “August: Osage County” through Sunday. The Community Jazz Center Big Band will present “Goodstock 2” on Sunday at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Dallas Center. Admission is free, and groovy attire is encouraged. And artists have until Aug. 17 to submit work for “By the Blade: Defining Collage” at the Polk County Heritage Gallery. …Here is a quick look back at this date in history. On Aug. 13, 1952, Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton recorded “Hound Dog” for the first time. Elvis Presley would record his version four years later, and that version would become a No. 1 hit. And on Aug. 13, 1961, East German soldiers began constructing barriers that divided East Berlin from the democratic western section of the city.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, Iowa, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella podcast for Wednesday, Aug. 12. Today, we’re talking about surveillance cameras that are becoming targets, a big change to this week’s Iowa State Fair lineup, a heartbreaking puppy rescue, some wild weather across the Midwest, and the question that has been keeping frog lovers awake at night. But first, let’s start with something you probably heard before you saw it. …If you grew up in Iowa, you probably remember the sound of cicadas. That loud, relentless buzzing was simply part of summer. Publisher Shane Goodman shares in his column how he used to assume every Iowa summer came with cicadas. He said it turns out there is more to the story, noting how when cicadas emerge, they begin what might be described as the cicada version of speed dating. The males make the noise — a loud noise — to attract females. Shane says if humans used the same strategy, dating apps would be much simpler. We would just stand in our backyards and scream at maximum volumes until somebody found us attractive. …Surveillance cameras owned by Flock Safety are being vandalized across the country. The cameras are designed to capture information from vehicles, and their increasing presence has generated both support and controversy. Supporters say these systems can help law enforcement investigate crimes and identify vehicles connected to criminal activity. Critics have raised concerns about privacy and the amount of information that can be collected and retained. And now, in communities across the country, some of the cameras themselves have become targets. …If you were planning to see Rod Stewart at the Iowa State Fair this Friday, you’ll need to make other plans. Fair officials announced Tuesday that Stewart will not perform Friday night because of medical issues. The 81-year-old music legend had been scheduled to perform Aug. 14 at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand. Officials say they are now working to find a replacement act. …A severely emaciated puppy found in an overgrown Polk County ditch is now receiving care at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. The puppy, named Blossom, arrived at the shelter Saturday weighing just 9.7 pounds. She was severely dehydrated, soaked in urine and unable to lift her head without assistance. An ARL veterinarian described it as one of the worst cases of emaciation she had ever seen. Blossom is now getting medical attention and care. …Elsewhere this morning, all suspects believed to be connected to an armed robbery at a Kwik Star in Oskaloosa are now in custody following a search involving multiple law enforcement agencies. …And on this date in history, Aug. 12, 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill met aboard a ship in Newfoundland and worked on what became the Atlantic Charter. And in 1990, fossil hunter Susan Hendrickson discovered three enormous bones sticking out of a cliff in South Dakota. They belonged to what became the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered. …Yesterday’s riddle was: Why did the frog read Sherlock Holmes? The answer? Because he liked a good croak and dagger story! And today’s question: Why are frogs so happy? Think you know the answer? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today. And be sure to subscribe to our email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Tuesday, Aug. 11. Here’s what’s happening around the metro, across Iowa and beyond — plus a little history, some sports and, of course, a frog who apparently has developed an interest in detective fiction. Let’s get started. …If you have ever driven through Texas, you probably know Buc-ee’s. It’s the enormous convenience store and gas station chain known for its giant stores, massive selection of snacks, clean restrooms and, perhaps most importantly, beaver-themed merchandise. Now, Buc-ee’s is proposing its first Iowa location — and it wants to put it in Urbandale. According to KCCI, the proposed location would be near the I-80/I-35 interchange at 100th Street and Northpark Drive. And this would not be some little roadside gas station. The proposed store would be a whopping 74,000 square feet on a 20-acre site that is currently a bean field. The property is owned by former Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie, who is selling the land to Buc-ee’s. Before the project can move forward, Urbandale would need to change its comprehensive plan. So, Iowa, get ready. If everything falls into place, you may soon be able to buy a brisket sandwich, fill up your tank and purchase a six-foot beaver statue without leaving the metro. …A much more somber story comes from BCLUW High School. Josh Tack, the school’s principal, died in a UTV crash over the weekend in Dubuque County. The BCLUW school district shared news of Tack’s death Monday. BCLUW serves the communities of Beaman, Conrad, Liscomb, Union, Whitten and Marshalltown. A school principal is often one of those people who becomes a familiar face far beyond the school building — to students, parents, teachers and the broader community. The loss of a school leader can be felt throughout an entire district. Our thoughts are with Tack’s family, friends, colleagues and the students and communities he served. …Nearly 200 supportive housing units are coming to the Des Moines metro. Greater Des Moines Supportive Housing announced that West Des Moines and Urbandale have approved renovations to two extended-stay hotels. The properties will be converted into fully furnished studio apartments. The project represents the completion of a five-year effort to bring new permanent supportive housing units to the metro. Nearly 200 people will eventually have access to housing designed to provide not only a place to live but additional support. …Internationally, search-and-rescue crews are working in western Colombia following a powerful earthquake. At least 111 people were reported killed, with many others trapped beneath damaged or destroyed buildings. …On Aug. 11, 1934, the first federal prisoners arrived at Alcatraz Island. The high-security prison would go on to become one of the most famous — and infamous — prisons in American history. And in 1984, President Ronald Reagan made his infamous microphone joke about bombing Russia while testing a microphone before a radio address. The joke was never broadcast as part of the address, but it certainly became part of presidential history. …We’ll close with today’s morning chuckle. Yesterday’s question was: Why are frogs good at baseball? One answer: Because they are good at catching or hitting fly balls! Another answer: Because their games are always ribbiting! And today’s question is: Why did the frog read Sherlock Holmes?Think you know the answer? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, Iowa! It’s Monday, Aug. 10, and this is The Daily Umbrella, where we give you the news, weather, sports and a few things you probably didn’t know you needed to know before your day gets rolling. Let’s get started. …Folks, it is officially Iowa State Fair week. The fair kicks off this Thursday and runs through Aug. 23. More than a million people typically attend the 11-day event, and the attendance record was set in 2024, when more than 1.18 million people walked through the gates. That is a lot of people. Especially when you consider that all of them are trying to get to the same place at the same time — usually while carrying something deep-fried and on a stick. …Let’s get to the news. A 45-year-old Bayard man has been arrested following a Saturday night altercation outside a Fort Dodge convenience store that left an 18-year-old man injured. Fort Dodge police and Webster County sheriff’s deputies responded to the Star Convenience Store on Fifth Avenue South shortly before 11 p.m. Saturday after receiving a report of an altercation between two men. …Also making news around Iowa, a Dubuque man was killed early Saturday morning in a crash on Highway 20 in Delaware County. The Iowa State Patrol says a Toyota Prius and Honda CR-V were parked on the eastbound shoulder around 2 a.m. when a Chevrolet Equinox struck both vehicles and the driver of the CR-V. …In Des Moines, one person was hospitalized following a shooting on the city’s south side. Police said the shooting appeared to be isolated to the people involved, and investigators had not located a suspect at the time of the report. …Meanwhile, if you run a small business and have a pile of old computers, phones, monitors or other electronics sitting in a closet, CITYVIEW magazine has an important reminder: Don’t trash your tech. Old electronics should not simply be thrown into the garbage. They can contain materials that don’t belong in landfills, and, perhaps even more importantly, those old devices may contain sensitive business information. Your old computer may be worthless to you, but your data might still be valuable to somebody else. …Today will be hot and humid, with a high near 89 and a 30% chance of rain. Tuesday looks similar, with a high of 89 and a slight chance of storms. Wednesday should be mostly sunny, with a high around 87. So, basically, it’s August in Iowa. Hot enough to make you sweat while standing still, with just enough possibility of rain to make you wonder whether you should carry an umbrella. …Now let’s check in on sports. Teddy Bridgewater is stepping away from the Detroit Lions again. The veteran quarterback has been placed on the reserve/retired list. Bridgewater previously retired after the 2023 season, only to return to the Lions the following season. …And Caitlin Clark had another big game for the Indiana Fever. Clark scored 26 points and had 11 assists in Indiana’s 90-86 victory over the Chicago Sky. Her backcourt teammate Kelsey Mitchell scored 27, marking the eighth game this season in which the two players have each scored at least 25 points. …And finally, we have today’s morning chuckle. Friday’s question was: What’s a plumber’s favorite song? We received several answers, including “Singing in the Drain,” “Splish Splash,” and even “Danny Boy,” because, of course, “the pipes, the pipes are calling.” But that brings us to today’s question: Why are frogs good at baseball? 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.

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. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, Aug. 6. We bring you the stories you need to know to start your day. Let's get started. …Shane Goodman’s commentary today takes aim at one of America's favorite neighborhood institutions to complain about — homeowners associations. Buying a home is often called the American dream, but as Shane’s column points out, that dream can quickly turn into a lesson in rules, regulations and violation notices. The piece jokes that somewhere between unpacking moving boxes and planting your first flowers, you're handed a binder of HOA rules thick enough to rival the federal tax code. While HOA’s serve an important purpose by protecting property values and maintaining neighborhoods, they also have a reputation for policing everything from grass height to garbage cans left out a few minutes too long. The bigger issue is financial. More than 78 million Americans now live in an HOA, condo association or housing cooperative. HOA foreclosure filings have risen sharply in recent years as associations face rising insurance costs and expensive repairs. The takeaway? Before buying that dream home, read every page of those HOA covenants — yes, even the parts about fences, flagpoles and flowerpots. …Now to today's headlines. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed the state's first case of West Nile virus this year. The patient is an adult from eastern Iowa. Last year, Iowa reported 57 cases, including three deaths. Health officials continue to remind Iowans to protect themselves from mosquito bites during late summer. …Governor Kim Reynolds is encouraging Iowans to donate blood after the American Red Cross declared a national blood supply crisis. Reynolds donated blood herself Wednesday, saying she wanted to lead by example. The Red Cross says donations have fallen to a four-year summer low. …In lighter news, Iowa's craft beer scene had plenty to celebrate. Seven Iowa breweries combined to win 18 medals at the 2026 U.S. Open Beer Championship. Central Iowa winners included Flix Brewhouse, Confluence Brewing Company and Exile Brewing Company, while breweries from Cedar Rapids, Decorah, Council Bluffs and Sioux City also brought home medals. Cheers to that. …Looking ahead to the weather, expect early morning fog followed by sunshine today with a high around 81 degrees. Friday brings a chance of afternoon thunderstorms with temperatures climbing into the mid-80s, and Saturday looks mostly sunny with highs near 87. …If you're looking for something to do, the Des Moines Historical Society is hosting a historical tour and happy hour tonight at Hoyt Sherman Place. Mainframe Studios celebrates First Friday tomorrow evening, and several theater productions and gallery exhibits are happening throughout the metro this week. …Sports fans may appreciate a bit of nostalgia today. The Kansas City Chiefs announced their stadium will once again simply be called Arrowhead Stadium, dropping the field branding from its official name. …And finally, today's morning chuckle. Yesterday's riddle asked: What is the noblest musical instrument? The answer: The upright piano! … Today's riddle is: What was the pilgrim's favorite type of music? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Wednesday, Aug. 5. We bring you the top local headlines, a few stories from around Iowa and beyond, plus today's weather and a look at what's happening around town. Let's get started. …Our top story this morning comes from downtown Des Moines, where a traffic stop turned into a police chase and ended with what authorities are calling one of the city's largest cocaine seizures of the year. Police say 43-year-old Quawi Gates now faces multiple felony charges after officers recovered a large quantity of drugs following the pursuit. It's another significant narcotics case for Des Moines police in 2026. …In heartbreaking news, a 15-month-old girl from Coon Rapids who was accidentally struck by a vehicle driven by her mother has died after several days in the hospital. Police say Mia Mauricio's family chose to donate her organs, offering hope to others during an unimaginable tragedy. …Meanwhile, for the fifth consecutive school year, every student in the Des Moines Public Schools district will receive free breakfast and lunch regardless of household income through the USDA's Community Eligibility Provision. …Elsewhere around Iowa, Coralville police have identified human remains discovered last month as Grant Leonard, who disappeared nearly three years ago. Identification was confirmed through dental records, bringing long-awaited answers to the missing person's case. …Around the world, a record-setting heat wave continues across Japan and the Korean Peninsula, with extreme temperatures affecting both people and wildlife. Officials are urging residents to take extra precautions as dangerous heat persists. …Now, let's check the local weather. Today brings scattered thunderstorms with a high near 73 degrees and an 80 percent chance of rain. Sunshine returns Thursday with a high of 83, followed by partly cloudy skies and temperatures climbing into the mid-80s on Friday. If you've been waiting for better outdoor weather, it's just around the corner. Allergy sufferers catch a break today. Pollen levels are expected to remain in the low range, although nettle, sagebrush and grasses remain the primary allergens. …In business news, the processed food industry is facing growing challenges. According to the Wall Street Journal, major food manufacturers are cutting prices and rethinking products as more consumers seek fresher foods with cleaner ingredient labels. The newsletter notes that demand is also shifting because of the popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications and changing shopping habits. …If you're looking for lunch or dinner deals today, Wednesday continues to be one of the best bargain days of the week around central Iowa. Burger specials, ribs, tacos, Italian beef, lasagna, fried chicken, sushi discounts and even free pie are all on today's menu at restaurants across the metro. See details at www.thedailyumbrella.com. A featured story in the current issue of Urbandale Living magazine takes readers inside a backyard playhouse that's been creating memories for 75 years. Built by a father and grandfather for a little girl in the 1950s, the tiny structure still stands today as a reminder that sometimes the simplest places become the most treasured. ….And finally, today's riddle: What is the noblest musical instrument? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Tuesday, Aug. 4. We bring you the stories you need to know to start your day across Iowa and beyond. Here is what is making news this morning. …A nationwide blood shortage is having a real impact close to home. According to KCCI, a critical blood transfusion for 4-year-old Liv Freund of Waukee nearly had to be delayed because of a lack of available blood. Liv has been battling B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and is about 10 months into a two-and-a-half-year treatment plan at Blank Children's Hospital. Health officials continue encouraging eligible donors to give blood, saying every donation can make a life-saving difference for patients like Liv. …An Urbandale man is facing charges after an assault that left another man in critical condition. Police responded late Sunday night to the 6500 block of Madison Avenue, where they found the victim suffering serious injuries. The investigation is ongoing. …And in western Iowa, a man has been charged with first-degree murder after a woman was found dead in a Lake View residence in Sac County. Authorities say deputies responded to a 911 call Sunday morning reporting a shooting. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation is assisting with that case. …In Washington state, authorities have arrested a man suspected of intentionally setting one of the wildfires burning around Spokane. He is facing a first-degree arson charge, and investigators continue working to determine the full scope of the damage. …Internationally, officials report that an Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo has claimed more than 1,700 lives, making it one of the fastest-growing outbreaks of the disease. …If you appreciate truly local media, Shane Goodman highlights one organization worth celebrating today. Community radio station KFMG, 98.9 FM in Des Moines, continues expanding its lineup with familiar local voices, including veteran broadcaster Maxwell Schaeffer, longtime arts advocate Lee Ann Bakros, jazz musician Tommy Doggett and community leader Dr. Negus Rudison-Imhotep. Goodman points out that while corporate radio often sounds the same no matter where you travel, KFMG sounds like Des Moines — and that local ownership is becoming increasingly rare. …Expect scattered showers today with a high of 86 degrees and about a 60 percent chance of rain. Showers and thunderstorms become even more likely on Wednesday, with temperatures cooling into the upper 70s. Sunshine returns Thursday with a high near 83. Restaurant Week kicks off Aug. 7 and runs through Aug. 16, giving diners plenty of opportunities to explore local restaurants. And if your tomato plants are finally producing more tomatoes than you know what to do with, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is offering a hands-on salsa workshop tomorrow. See details at www.thedailyumbrella.com. …On this day in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson formally proclaimed the United States neutral as World War I began in Europe. In 1944, Anne Frank and her family were discovered by the Gestapo after more than two years in hiding in Amsterdam. And in 2012, Oscar Pistorius became the first amputee runner to compete in the Olympic Games. …We will leave you with today's Daily Umbrella riddle: Why did the man hold a shoe to his ear? 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. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Monday, Aug. 3. We bring you the top stories, local headlines, weather, business updates and, of course, today's morning chuckle. Thanks for spending a few minutes with us as we help you start your day. Let's get to the news. …First, today's editorial takes aim at a growing trend in college athletics: corporate logos on college jerseys. Ohio State and Notre Dame have joined the list of schools selling jersey sponsorships, with reported deals worth as much as $17 million and $20 million annually. The NCAA now allows schools to place up to two commercial logos on uniforms beginning this season. The concern? Tradition may be losing ground to advertising dollars. The column argues that college sports have always been about school pride, memories and loyalty — not promoting banks or financial institutions. While athletic departments are searching for new revenue streams in the age of name, image and likeness payments, the question remains: once tradition is sold, can it ever really be bought back? …Now to today's top local headlines. Five people were injured in two separate crashes in Des Moines over the weekend. In one incident, police say a 19-year-old driver allegedly ran a red light at a high rate of speed, colliding with another vehicle at Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway and Ingersoll Avenue. A bicyclist was among those injured. …In northwest Iowa, one person is dead and five others were injured after two boats collided Sunday afternoon on West Lake Okoboji near Pillsbury Point. Three victims suffered serious injuries while two others received minor injuries. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating the crash. …A West Des Moines man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted in connection with multiple crimes, including an armed robbery in a Walgreens parking lot in 2025. Prosecutors said the victim was threatened at gunpoint and robbed of several hundred dollars. …Turning to weather... Expect partly cloudy skies today with a high near 86 degrees and only a slight chance of rain. Tuesday cools down to a high of 78 before a much wetter Wednesday, when rain chances jump to 80 percent and temperatures settle into the low 70s. …In food news, several new restaurants are opening around the metro. Kentzio Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge has opened on Southwest Ninth Street in Des Moines. Doner Street is now serving customers in the Jordan Creek food court. Mullets has expanded with a new Waukee location, and Breakfast Club has moved into a larger downtown space while also opening a second location in Waukee. Meanwhile, China Place in Dogtown has closed after 25 years as the owners retire, with a new restaurant planned for the location. …On this day in history... In 1492, Christopher Columbus departed Spain on his famous voyage across the Atlantic. In 1958, the nuclear submarine Nautilus completed the first undersea voyage beneath the North Pole. And in 1996, "Macarena" reached number one on the U.S. pop charts, beginning one of the biggest dance crazes of the decade. …Before we go, it's time for today's morning chuckle. The answer to Friday's riddle was: What kind of music do aliens like? "Nep-tunes!" Or, "Outta this world genre!" And today's new riddle asks: What type of music are balloons scared of? 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. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella podcast for Friday, July 31. We bring you the top stories, weather and a few fun extras to help you start your day. Let's begin with today's top headlines. …Iowa State University's highly anticipated CyTown development has hit another delay. University officials say the mixed-use project will now be completed during the first quarter of 2028 instead of late 2027. The good news? Construction is finally about to get underway. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 2, giving Cyclone fans and Ames residents something tangible to look forward to after years of planning. Once complete, CyTown is expected to become a major entertainment and retail destination next to Jack Trice Stadium. …In Urbandale, police have identified the man whose body was recovered from Halice Lake last week. Emergency crews responded after reports of an unresponsive person in the water and recovered the body of an adult male. Authorities have released his identity while the investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death continues. …In southeast Des Moines, a string of power outages is raising concerns about emergency preparedness. Several neighborhoods have experienced four outages in just two weeks, including one caused by a traffic crash. With hot summer temperatures continuing, MidAmerican Energy is reminding residents to have flashlights, charged phones and emergency supplies ready in case future outages occur. …Around Iowa, a heartbreaking story out of Coon Rapids. A 15-month-old girl remains in critical condition after she was accidentally struck by a vehicle driven by her mother. Family members began CPR before emergency responders arrived, and the child was airlifted to an Omaha hospital. The family is asking for prayers during this difficult time. …Nationally, Colin Gray, the father who provided the firearm used in the deadly Georgia high school shooting, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. The sentencing comes just days after his son received a sentence of life without parole. …And internationally, thousands of earthquake survivors in southwestern Japan continue coping with dangerous heat, water shortages and damaged infrastructure following the powerful quake that has claimed at least 34 lives. …Turning to your weekend forecast. There is a good chance of scattered showers today with a high near 78 degrees and a 70% chance of rain. Clearing skies arrive Saturday with sunshine returning and a high of 81. Sunday looks beautiful — sunny skies and a high around 85 degrees. If you have outdoor plans this weekend, Saturday afternoon and Sunday appear to be your best bets. ...If you are looking for something to do this weekend, there are plenty of dining specials around central Iowa. Friday means fish and chips at many Hy-Vee stores, half-priced kids meals at Exile Brewing, and Friday ramen at Wilson Orchard. Live music is also plentiful, with performances scheduled throughout the metro all weekend long. See details at www.thedailyumbrella.com. …And before we wrap up, let's visit today's morning chuckle. Yesterday's riddle asked, "What kind of music is played inside the vehicle?" Some favorite answers included "Car-tunes," "Road Songs," "Car-aoke," and even "The Rolling Stone." Today's new riddle is: What kind of music do aliens like? 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. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, July 30. We bring you the stories you need to know to start your day across central Iowa and beyond. Here is what is making news today. …A tragic story tops today's news. A Grimes teenager drowned Tuesday morning while on a church trip to South Dakota. Authorities say deputies responded to Hippie Hole, a popular but difficult-to-access swimming and cliff-jumping area in the Black Hills, after reports of a possible drowning. The Pennington County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the incident. …In Winterset, one person died Wednesday evening after being electrocuted while working on a home. According to the Madison County Sheriff's Office, the victim was performing construction work when the accident occurred. Officials continue to investigate. …In Iowa politics, a Polk County judge has upheld a decision to keep Libertarian candidates Nicholas Gluba and Jules Cutler off the November ballot. Although the ticket submitted more than 8,000 petition signatures, legal questions surrounding the nomination process led to the ruling. …Iowa may soon become known for more than corn and soybeans. Researchers at Iowa State University are helping growers expand production of honeyberries — a tart fruit that looks like a cross between a blueberry and a grape. While still considered a niche crop, experts believe honeyberries could become much more common in Iowa over the coming years. …Around the nation, legal challenges continue over the transfer of transgender inmates into segregated prison housing, while internationally, tensions remain high following another exchange of missile strikes between the United States and Iran. …Looking ahead to today's forecast... Expect partly cloudy skies with a high near 88 degrees. There is about a 40 percent chance of afternoon showers. Friday looks wetter, with scattered showers likely and a high around 78. Saturday brings a return to partly cloudy skies with highs in the low 80s. …If you are looking for something to do this weekend... Jazz legends Spyro Gyra celebrate their 50th anniversary with a performance Sunday night at Hoyt Sherman Place. "Rent: School Edition" continues through Sunday, presented by Des Moines Young Artists Theatre. And tomorrow, CITYVIEW's Summer Stir heads to the East Village, where participants can sample 10 drinks for $25 while strolling through the neighborhood. See details on each of these and more at www.thedailyumbrella.com. …A quick look at gas prices... The statewide average for regular unleaded is now $3.75 per gallon. If you are looking for the best bargain around the metro, Mega Saver in Altoona is reporting gas for $3.38 per gallon, with stations in Bondurant close behind at $3.47. …On this day in 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare into law, enrolling former President Harry Truman as the program's very first beneficiary. In 1974, Richard Nixon released the White House tapes that became central to the Watergate investigation. And in 1999, the low-budget horror film “The Blair Witch Project” debuted in theaters and became a cultural phenomenon. …And before we go, today's Daily Umbrella riddle asks: What kind of music is played inside the vehicle? 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.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Hello, everyone, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella podcast for Wednesday, July 29. We bring you a quick roundup of today's top headlines, weather, and a few lighter moments to help get your day started. Let's dive in. …Our top story today comes from central Iowa, where the U.S. Marshals Service wrapped up a major four-day operation called Operation Heatwave. Working alongside state, local and federal law enforcement agencies, officers arrested 61 wanted fugitives and cleared 97 felony arrest warrants. Officials say the effort targeted dangerous offenders throughout the region and highlights the ongoing cooperation between agencies to improve public safety. …In Des Moines, city leaders continue wrestling with budget challenges. Proposed cuts to the Des Moines Fire Department could result in longer emergency response times. Firefighters say reductions in staffing and services come as the city faces a projected budget deficit tied to recent changes in Iowa's property tax laws. Those discussions are expected to continue in the coming months. …Also making news, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is preparing for a major facelift. Construction has begun on a temporary public entrance that will allow renovations to the lobby and the construction of a brand-new permanent entrance. Visitors should still be able to enjoy the gardens while the improvements move forward over the next several months. …Around the nation, crews in northeastern Wisconsin continue cleaning up after a powerful tornado carved a destructive path through several communities. Officials say the storm remained on the ground for more than 20 minutes, damaging homes, overturning vehicles and knocking out power. Fortunately, many believe the timing of the storm helped prevent even greater loss of life. …And here in Iowa, firefighters spent hours battling a blaze at the Agri Star meat processing plant in Postville after smoke was reported early Tuesday morning. Multiple departments responded, and investigators are working to determine what caused the fire. …Turning to sports, Caitlin Clark delivered another spectacular performance Tuesday night, scoring 32 points as the Indiana Fever defeated Seattle 105-95. The Fever have now scored more than 100 points in four consecutive games, setting a new WNBA record. College athletics also continues evolving. Ohio State and Notre Dame both announced major corporate jersey sponsorship deals, making them the latest schools to place company logos on athletic uniforms beginning this season. …Looking outside, today's forecast calls for mostly sunny skies with a high near 90 degrees and no chance of rain. Thursday brings increasing clouds with a slight chance of showers, while Friday looks considerably wetter, with rain chances climbing to 70 percent and temperatures cooling into the lower 80s. Allergy sufferers should note that today's pollen level is in the medium range, with grasses, nettle and cattail leading the list. …And before we wrap up, today's Daily Umbrella riddle asks: What musical instrument would you use to catch a fish?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. …Thanks for listening to the Daily Umbrella podcast. Be sure to check back tomorrow for another quick roundup of the news, weather and happenings from around central Iowa. Have a wonderful Wednesday, and we'll see you next time.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Tuesday, July 28. We bring you a quick look at today's top stories, events and a few lighter moments to help start your day. Let's get started. …One of the biggest stories affecting central Iowa comes from Central Iowa Water Works. After an impressive 193 consecutive days of operation, the region's nitrate removal facility has officially been shut down. The good news? Nitrate levels have dropped enough that voluntary water conservation measures have also been lifted. That means residents can get back to normal water use, and after months of concern, it is certainly a welcome sign that conditions have improved. …In crime news, prosecutors are pushing back against an effort by Kristin Ramsey to have her first-degree murder charge dismissed in the 2011 killing of Ashley Okland. Ramsey was arrested earlier this year after a Dallas County grand jury indictment, and the legal battle is expected to continue. …Meanwhile, the heat continues creating challenges across Iowa. In Ames, one restaurant was actually forced to close temporarily because its air conditioning system simply could not keep up with the recent stretch of high temperatures. It is another reminder that this summer's heat is not just uncomfortable — it is impacting local businesses as well. …Looking around the state, Cedar Rapids leaders continue explaining the financial incentives behind several billion-dollar data center projects. City officials say tax incentives helped attract the developments while creating long-term economic benefits for residents. …Turning to sports, veteran safety Jamal Adams is headed to Minnesota after agreeing to join the Vikings as training camp begins. And in baseball, the Chicago Cubs designated starting pitcher Jameson Taillon for assignment following a difficult season. …If you are looking for something fun to do this week, the National Balloon Classic returns to Indianola beginning July 31 and runs through Aug. 8. More than 115 colorful hot air balloons are expected to participate, along with live entertainment, food vendors, family activities and the always-popular evening balloon glows. It remains one of Iowa's signature summer events and is well worth the trip. …The weather looks fairly cooperative, too. Today calls for partly cloudy skies with a high around 88 degrees. Wednesday warms up to about 90 with sunshine, and Thursday brings the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms with highs in the low 90s. …If you are planning lunch or dinner out today, there are plenty of Tuesday specials around the metro listed at www.thedailyumbrella.com. From Taco Tuesday deals to half-priced appetizers, burgers, wings and even Tomahawk Tuesday for steak lovers, today may be one of the best bargain days of the week to eat out. …Before we wrap up, today's bit of history. On this day in 1868, the 14th Amendment officially became part of the United States Constitution, guaranteeing citizenship to all people born or naturalized in the United States. …And finally, today's Daily Umbrella riddle: Why did the ants dance on the jam jar lid? 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. …That is all for today's edition of the Daily Umbrella Podcast. Have a terrific Tuesday, stay cool, and thank you for listening.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Hello, everyone, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Monday, July 27. We bring you a quick look at today's top stories, community updates and a few fun extras to start your week. Let's get right to it. …

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Friday, July 24. We bring you the biggest stories, a few lighter moments, and everything you need to know to head into the weekend. Let’s get started. …Today's top local story focuses on an animal that is becoming a more common neighbor across Iowa: coyotes. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says coyote sightings are increasing throughout the state, prompting some cities, including Johnston, to revisit local ordinances and educate residents on how to respond. Areas like Gray's Lake in Des Moines provide ideal habitat, but wildlife experts say there is no need to panic. In most cases, coyotes are far more afraid of people than people are of them. The advice remains simple: never feed them, keep pets supervised, and make plenty of noise if you encounter one. …Also making headlines, a former Bondurant elementary school principal is now facing a state ethics case after authorities say she was intoxicated while at school earlier this year. Public records indicate there is enough evidence for the case to move forward. …Meanwhile, downtown Des Moines continues its housing boom. Financing has been approved to convert another historic office building into apartments, adding more than 200 housing units as demand for downtown living continues to grow. …Around the nation, questions continue after a fatal police shooting in Madison, Wisconsin. One major issue drawing attention is that the city's police officers were not wearing body cameras because the department does not require them. …And internationally, devastating wildfires in Spain and France have forced more than 70,000 people to evacuate their homes as firefighters battle rapidly spreading blazes. …Now, let’s talk about the weekend weather. Friday brings morning showers with a high near 75 degrees. Then summer comes roaring back. Saturday climbs to around 90 degrees with sunshine, and Sunday gets even hotter, reaching the mid-90s. If you have outdoor plans, stay hydrated and remember that Iowa humidity never misses an opportunity to remind you who is in charge. …Today's featured story from Adel Living magazine celebrates something many of us remember fondly: backyard adventures. From custom-built treehouses to imaginative play spaces, families are creating outdoor escapes where children can unplug, explore and build memories. One featured homeowner spent the pandemic constructing a treehouse after being inspired by a television show. The result became a gathering place not only for kids but for family and friends as well. Sometimes the best vacation destination is only a few steps out the back door. …If you are looking for something fun this weekend, there are plenty of dining specials and live music happening across central Iowa. Whether you are craving prime rib, barbecue, brunch or just a good excuse to avoid cooking, you have options. And if live entertainment is on your list, several local venues will feature performances throughout the weekend. Now for today's bit of trivia. Did you know that when sliced bread was first advertised in 1928, the slogan was not "the best thing since sliced bread"? Instead, the bakery proudly called it "the best thing since bread was wrapped." Apparently, someone in marketing eventually realized sliced bread deserved even more credit. …And before we wrap up, here is today's riddle. What dessert is the best dancer? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured in Monday’s edition. And be sure to subscribe to our full email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella, your daily five-minute briefing on what's happening in central Iowa and beyond. Today is Wednesday, July 22. We've got news about flooded roads, smoky skies, concerns about drinking water, and, of course, today's morning chuckle. Let's get started. …If you drove around the Des Moines metro Monday night, you probably discovered that some streets looked more like boat ramps. Des Moines police say nearly one-quarter of all 911 calls during the evening storm were weather-related. Officers responded to almost two dozen stranded vehicles after drivers tried to make it through flooded streets — and didn't make it. The reminder today is a simple one: Turn around, don't drown. Even a few inches of moving water can disable a vehicle or sweep it off the road. …Speaking of the environment, today begins with another beautiful blue sky... at least, that's the forecast. But the lingering conversation continues to be about air quality. Smoke from northern wildfires has drifted into Iowa again, prompting Polk County officials to encourage residents to check the Air Quality Index before spending extended time outdoors. …In today's publisher's column, Shane Goodman reflects on the irony that while he has spent years worrying about water quality, lately it's been the air that's causing concern. He notes that wildfires themselves aren't new. Forests have always burned. But hotter temperatures, decades of fuel buildup in forests, and human-caused ignitions have combined to create more frequent and more intense fires. The takeaway? Whether the smoke starts hundreds of miles away or right next door, we all breathe the same air. …And while we're talking about environmental concerns... Today's "Woebegone Wednesday" commentary by Jim Duncan takes aim at Iowa's drinking water. The piece points to new reports showing nitrate drinking water violations doubled during 2025 and argues that Iowa's water quality problem deserves to be treated as a statewide crisis. The commentary even suggests Des Moines risks earning an unfortunate nickname: "the new Flint." Whether you agree with that comparison or not, there's little doubt that clean drinking water remains one of Iowa's biggest public policy discussions. …Let's check your forecast. Today will be about as nice as July gets. Expect sunshine, a high around 78 degrees, low humidity, and a low tonight near 59. Thursday brings more pleasant weather with highs near 79 before shower chances increase Friday morning. …Looking for lunch — or maybe dinner? Wednesday means plenty of local food specials. Gilroy's has all-you-can-eat fried chicken. Kelly's Little Nipper features burgers with a side for ten bucks. Exile Brewing has a burger basket, fries and a beer special. And if convenience-store fried chicken is your guilty pleasure, Kwik Star's eight-piece chicken deal continues to earn surprisingly rave reviews. …One local feature worth checking out in the latest issue of CITYVIEW magazine profiles The Soggy Frog, the new rooftop bar overlooking Saylorville Marina. With multiple patios and waterfront views, it aims to bring a little Florida tiki-bar atmosphere to central Iowa. …Finally... yesterday's riddle asked: Which car does a vegetarian from Germany drive? Some favorite answers included a Volks-vegan... or a Mercedes-Beans. Today's riddle is: Which vegetarian dish is made from a few spuds of similar shape and color? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured. And be sure to subscribe to our full email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, July 23. We bring you a quick roundup of today's top headlines, local events, weather, and a little trivia to start your day. Let's get to it. …Shane Goodman opens today's newsletter with a reminder about something many of us take for granted: vacations. He shares a cartoon of a cow asking for two weeks off in August — a funny image, until you realize the truth behind it. Livestock don't take vacations, and neither do the farmers who care for them. It's a tribute to the Midwestern work ethic. Whether it's feeding cattle before sunrise or harvesting crops before a storm rolls in, farm life runs on responsibility, not a calendar. Shane reminds us that while many careers offer weekends, holidays and paid time off, someone is working every single day to make sure food reaches our tables. …One of Iowa's most influential athletic leaders is stepping away. KCCI takes a look at the legacy of Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard. Supporters say Pollard's impact stretches well beyond wins and losses. During his tenure, Iowa State transformed its athletic facilities, elevated the national profile of Cyclone sports, and helped fuel economic growth throughout Ames. Many believe his influence will be felt for decades. …In Calhoun County, authorities have filed murder and attempted murder charges against a man accused in a deadly April collision involving a pickup truck and a UTV. Nineteen-year-old Kyle Rath died in the crash, while another passenger suffered serious injuries. …Meanwhile, the City of Waukee has approved a new ordinance regulating e-bikes and e-scooters. The rules reduce allowable speeds on sidewalks and trails and establish additional safety standards aimed at balancing recreation with pedestrian safety. …Nationally, there's encouraging news on crime. A new report shows homicide rates continue to decline sharply across major U.S. cities. If the trend continues through the end of the year, 2026 could record the lowest homicide rate in more than a century. …Today's forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with a high near 78 degrees and just a slight chance of scattered showers. Friday stays comfortable with morning rain possible and a high of 76 before summer heat returns Saturday with sunshine and temperatures climbing back to around 90. …Looking for something to do? Jazz in July wraps up Tuesday evening at Hoyt Sherman Place with free outdoor performances followed by a Kenny Wheeler tribute inside the theater. Tea lovers may want to visit Mainframe Studios this Sunday for the Des Moines Tea Festival, featuring vendors, tastings and educational sessions. The Des Moines Playhouse closes out its run of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” this weekend, while Des Moines Young Artists' Theatre opens “Rent: School Edition” on Friday. …Here's today's fun fact. You've probably seen "57 Varieties" on Heinz ketchup bottles. The funny thing is... Heinz never actually made 57 products. Founder Henry Heinz simply liked the number. Five was his lucky number, seven was his wife's, and together they created one of the most recognizable marketing slogans in history. Sometimes branding really is that simple. …And before we go, today's morning riddle: What's a ballerina's favorite number? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured. And be sure to subscribe to our full email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella podcast for Tuesday, July 21. We bring you the stories you need to know to start your day. Let's begin with our top local story. …Strong storms rolled through central Iowa Monday evening, leaving behind flooded streets, stranded motorists, downed trees and scattered power outages. Des Moines police responded to numerous reports of flooded roadways, vehicles trapped in high water, and trees and power lines blocking streets. If you're heading out this morning, be alert for lingering road closures and cleanup crews. …In southern Iowa, another historic building has suffered major damage. One year after a devastating fire destroyed a landmark on Albia's town square, part of the historic Skean's Block building collapsed, forcing additional road closures as officials assess the structure. …In business news, the Des Moines-based Krause Group is expanding its international sports portfolio. The company announced plans to acquire a majority stake in Casa Pia AC, a historic soccer club in Portugal's top professional league. Once approved, the club will join the group's growing collection that already includes Italy's Parma Calcio and Iowa's own Des Moines Menace. …Around Iowa, the Palo City Council approved a data center ordinance despite vocal opposition from residents who wanted stronger protections. The vote could help pave the way for a future Google data center project. …Turning to today's weather, after yesterday's storms, Mother Nature is giving us a much-needed break. Expect sunshine, breezy conditions and a high of 84 degrees, with comfortable humidity. Even better, the forecast looks pleasant through midweek. …If you're looking for the ultimate hamburger bun, food columnist Jim Duncan says George Formaro's new potato brioche buns are about as good as it gets. He calls them the perfect squishy bun that somehow holds together while making oversized burgers much easier to eat. They are available at Gateway Market, and judging by Jim's review, they may disappear from your kitchen as quickly as they did from his. …And if you're searching for a food bargain today, there are plenty of Tuesday specials around the metro. Johnny's Italian Steakhouse features beef tips Stroganoff for $14, including a beverage before 4 p.m. Pelican Post is serving a smashburger, fries and a draft beer for $12. Kelly's Little Nipper has a pork tenderloin basket with a drink for $11.50, and many local restaurants are celebrating Taco Tuesday with discounted tacos all day long. …If classic cars are more your speed than classic burgers, don't miss the latest issue of CITYVIEW magazine. Jackie Wilson explores why vintage automobiles continue to capture attention decades after they first rolled off the assembly line. While today's SUVs often blend together, classic cars still stand out with distinctive styling, chrome accents and unmistakable personality. …Looking back in history, today marks the anniversary of the First Battle of Bull Run in 1861, the first major land battle of the Civil War. It is also the anniversary of the release of the final Harry Potter book in 2007 and the conclusion of NASA's final space shuttle mission in 2011. …We'll wrap up with today's riddle. Yesterday's answer: What do vegetarians call an occasion for burping? A Tupperware party! And today's question is: Which car brand does a vegetarian from Germany drive? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured. And be sure to subscribe to our full email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Hello, everyone, and welcome to your Daily Umbrella podcast for July 20, 2026. We bring you the stories you need to know to start your Monday. …Let's begin with a thought from publisher Shane Goodman, who admits that patience is something he's still trying to master. He jokes that he taps his foot waiting for the microwave to finish, assumes the internet has collapsed if a webpage takes more than three seconds to load, and somehow always picks the slowest checkout line at the grocery store. His conclusion? Patience isn't about enjoying the wait. It's about recognizing that the best things in life — friendships, gardens and great barbecue — simply take time. A fitting reminder as we kick off another busy week. …Now to today's headlines. Forecasters say Monday will be the hottest day of the current stretch, with heat index values climbing between 100 and 105 degrees. There's also the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms later this afternoon and evening, so be sure to stay weather aware if you have outdoor plans. …In Polk County, authorities recovered a victim Sunday from a vehicle submerged in a retention pond near Hubbell Avenue. According to investigators, a passing motorist reported seeing the vehicle leave the roadway and enter the water. The incident remains under investigation. …RAGBRAI officially rolls on this week, and organizers say electric bicycles are becoming a larger part of the annual ride. They welcome the growing number of e-bike riders because the technology allows more people — especially older cyclists — to continue participating. At the same time, organizers are reminding everyone that e-bikes are heavier and often faster than traditional bicycles, so extra caution is needed to keep all riders safe. …Around Iowa, crews continue monitoring a partial building collapse in Albia's historic town square. Officials have closed part of downtown while engineers evaluate the structure, and residents are being asked to avoid the area. …Let's check today's forecast. Expect a hot Monday with a high around 95 degrees and about a 40 percent chance of storms. Tuesday brings welcome relief with sunshine and highs in the upper 80s, while Wednesday looks even more comfortable, topping out near 82 degrees. …Now here's what's happening around town. Saigon Day Café has opened in Clive, serving Vietnamese coffee, pastries, breakfast sandwiches and fresh-baked treats. Johnston has welcomed Zeke's Rooftop, named after one of the community's earliest settlers. And if you're looking ahead to the weekend, don't miss the Corn Bred Cornbread Renaissance on July 25 at Riverview Park. Organizers promise concerts, competitions, exhibits and, naturally, plenty of cornbread. The Des Moines Tea Festival also arrives at Mainframe Studios on July 26. …Sports fans woke up to plenty of headlines this morning. Spain captured the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a one-to-nothing victory over Argentina in extra time. In golf, Ryan Fox earned his first major championship by winning The Open Championship after an impressive performance at Royal Birkdale. …Today also marks one of the most memorable anniversaries in American history. On this date in 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon, delivering the famous words, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." …And before we go, today's Daily Umbrella riddle: What do vegetarians call an occasion for burping? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Friday, July 17. We bring you a quick roundup of today's biggest local headlines, a few stories from around the nation and the world, some weekend food inspiration, and, of course, today's groan-worthy riddle. Let's get started. …West Des Moines police have arrested a second teenager in connection with the tragic Fourth of July shooting that claimed the life of a 17-year-old girl. The teen now faces a charge of first-degree murder as investigators continue building their case. In Des Moines, city leaders are looking for creative ways to close a projected $12 million budget gap. Mayor Connie Boesen has reportedly reached out to hospitals, state agencies and a university asking them to voluntarily make payments in lieu of property taxes, commonly known as PILOT payments. And former Des Moines sports radio personality Marty Tirrell has once again been convicted of fraud. A federal jury found him guilty on multiple wire fraud charges, marking his second fraud conviction in recent years. …Internationally, the United States has expanded its military campaign against Iran with additional strikes targeting bridges, energy facilities and infrastructure tied to a key port. Meanwhile, television networks wrestled Thursday night with whether to air President Donald Trump's address live while balancing the public's need for information with concerns over potential misinformation. Closer to home, Waterloo is hosting its new Con-Quest pop culture convention this weekend, featuring comics, gaming, celebrity guests and hundreds of vendors. …It is going to be a hot one. Expect mostly sunny skies today with a high near 93 degrees. Saturday and Sunday won't offer much relief, with highs around 92 both days and only slight chances for rain. If you have outdoor plans this weekend, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks from the heat. …If you've been wondering what everyone on social media is cooking this summer, the answer is... dirty martini pasta. The viral recipe combines olives, olive brine, vermouth, garlic, lemon, Dijon mustard, Parmesan, parsley and, if you're adventurous, blue cheese. It has become one of TikTok's hottest recipes of the summer. Looking for somewhere to eat this weekend? You'll find everything from prime rib and steak specials to brunch buffets, ramen, wine tastings and even a corn-eating contest. There are plenty of excuses to skip cooking over the next few days. …This week's edition of CITYVIEW Living highlights the inspiring journey of country-rock artist XOLEX, whose career followed a remarkable recovery from an autoimmune disease. Today she performs throughout the Midwest while sharing both her music and her faith. …On this day in 1955, Disneyland officially opened in Anaheim, California, forever changing family entertainment. Also on this day in 1975, American and Soviet astronauts met in space during the historic Apollo-Soyuz mission, symbolizing cooperation during the Cold War. …Before we go, here's today's riddle: How do you kill a vegetarian vampire? Think you know the answer? Send your guess to [email protected] before noon today for a chance to be featured. And be sure to subscribe to our full email version of The Daily Umbrella for free at www.TheDailyUmbrella.com. …That's your Daily Umbrella Podcast for Friday, July 17. Thanks for listening. Have a safe, cool and enjoyable weekend, and we'll see you next time.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to The Daily Umbrella Podcast for Thursday, July 16. We bring you the stories, headlines and happenings you need to know to start your day. Let's begin. …Our top local story comes from northern Iowa, where two boys were hospitalized after a vehicle collided with a Union Pacific train near Lakota in Kossuth County. Authorities say a 16-year-old driver and his 12-year-old passenger were traveling on a gravel road when their Chevy Impala struck an eastbound train. Thankfully, a passerby quickly called 911 and has been praised for helping at the scene. Both boys were transported to hospitals with injuries. ...

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Good morning, and welcome to the Daily Umbrella podcast for Wednesday, July 15. We bring you a quick roundup of today's headlines, a few interesting discoveries, and, of course, a little humor to get your day started.

Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.Public voices concerns as DM faces budget cuts; plastic packaging news; which direction does a chicken swim?