Golden Circle College Fair In DM Sunday

Thousands of students and representatives from close to 150 U.S. colleges will get together Sunday at the Golden Circle College Fair. The event's a chance for students to have face time with college representatives while they work on their college plans. The event's from 12:30 to 3pm Sunday Afternoon at Hy-Vee Hall in the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines.

Judge to School School Board: Comply or Else

Four members of the Durant School Board in eastern Iowa, have been ordered to serve 30-days in jail and pay $500 fines for violating a court order reinstating high school principal Monica Rouse who challenged her firing in court and won. The district's so far refused to allow her access to Durant High School, her old computer, or student records.

Story Blogged at 09-28-12 14:13 by djennings

More State Schools Missing Federal Performance Targets

A new Iowa Education department report shows the number of schools not meeting annual federal performance goals jumped by 55% this year. The Des Moines Register reports new and tougher statewide assessments caused a drop in test scores, and a federal No Child Left Behind formula doesn't really make note of year to year improvement.

Foreclosure Crew Clears Out Wrong House

A Des Moines woman's not happy. Police say she came home last week to find a foreclosure crew removing her belongings from her University Avenue residence. Why was this a problem? Her home wasn't in foreclosure. The crew got the wrong house. KCCI reports police estimate value of the removed property at $10,000. Worse, the removed property had already been destroyed.

School Baord Members Ordered Jailed and Fined

Four members of the Durant School Board in eastern Iowa, have been ordered to serve 30-days in jail and pay $500 fines for violating a court order. KCCI reports a judge found them in contempt for not reinstating high school principal Monica Rouse who challenged her firing in court and won. Despite the court ruling, the district refused to allow her access to Durant High School, her old computer, or student records.

West Nile

Even though summer is winding down that doesn't mean the West Nile virus is. There've been more than 400 new cases in the last week. The second worst outbreak in history is starting to show signs of slowing down. Thirty eight percent of the cases have been reported in Texas - other states with large number cases include Mississippi, Michigan, South Dakota, Louisiana, Oklahoma and California.

Muscle Repair

Everything old is new again - even your tired achy muscles! Researchers say they've pin pointed a crucial protein that's behind the decline of muscle repair and agility as we age - which means scientists were able to stop the decline of muscle in mice and they hope to pass that along to humans in the future

Police Say Urbandale Woman Made Up Home Invasion Report

An Urbandale woman's been charged by police there with filing a false police reports. Investigators tell KCCI Kitty Pappas called them to her home on Palm Drive Sunday to report a home invasion. She claimed someone knocked on her door, she opened it, and was knocked out. Police say their investigation found Pappas made it all up.

DM PD-Two Pursuits Two Busts

Two overnight police pursuits in Des Moines ;ed to two arrests. 28-year old William Whitten was charged with possession with intent and other offenses. He's being held without bond for a probation violation. Officers tried to stop 20-year old Blake Cross near 14th and Euclid. He tried to run on foot, and failed. Charges include drug possession and driving without a valid license.

More Mental Health Beds for Des Moines Area

Central Iowans in need of psychiatric care will soon stop hearing--no beds available. The Des Moines Register reports the city's two main hospital firms are going to improve or expand psychiatric services, and the county's public hospital hopes to be able to do the same. Lutheran Hospital's adding 12 beds to their 40-bed unit, and Mercy Medical's moving its unit downtown, so there'll be 32-available beds more often.

Customers Stop and Hold Store Robbery Suspect for Police

Sioux City Police say customers at a convenience store grabbed and held onto a man who tried to hold up the place early this morning with a hammer. Police have charged 42-year old Shannon Ivory with first-degree robbery and two counts of assault while participating in a felony. Authorities are looking into Ivory's possible involvement in several other recent area robberies.

Suspect Charged in 2005 Evelyn Miller Murder

33-year old Casey Fredericksen's been charged with the 2005 disappearance and murder of then 7-year old Evelyn Miller. The child was sexually assaulted and died of sharp force injuries. Frederiksen was living with the girl and her mother at the time of the murder. He's in a federal prison in Illinois serving 14-years for child pornography and narcotics.

Charges Filed in Evelyn Miller Murder

33-year old Casey Fredericksen's been charged with the 2005 disappearance and murder of then 7-year old Evelyn Miller. The child was sexually assaulted and died of sharp force injuries. Frederiksen was living with the girl and her mother at the time of the murder. He's in a federal prison in Illinois serving 14-years for child pornography and narcotics.

Knees

Our desire to stay young and active is resulting in a surge of knee replacement surgeries and on the flip side - joint damaging obesity is adding to those numbers. More than 3 million Medicare patients who got artificial knees betweeeen 1991 and 2010 were studied - 10 percent of the surgeries were re-dos - replacing worn-out artificial joints. The number of initial knee-replacement surgeries each year on these older patients more than doubled during that time, rising to nearly 244,000 in 2010.

Elderly Drivers

A big drop in car crash injuries in older patients has been found when the drivers are warned by their doctors that they aren't fit to drive. A new study out of Canada couldn't determine if the improvement came because patients drove less or is they were more careful after their doctors spoke with them. One US estimate says about 600 thousand older drivers stay away from the wheel because of health conditions

Self Control

If you get sucked into reruns of your old favorite shows - you're more than just nostalgic - you're recharging your self control! Researchers have determines your self control comes in limited quantities and as you exert yourself it starts to run out. Positive social events boost your mood and help you restock - but so does spending time with a good book or watching an old favorite TV show or movie - you find comfort in them and that relieves your stress.

Single Car Crash

A man who died in a single vehicle crash Wednesday has been identified as 21 year old Jeffrey Douglas Jones of Earlham. Word from police - Jones' vehicle left the roadway in West DesMoines on an interstate mix master that connects Interstates 80, 35 and 235. Thevehicle crossed several lanes of traffic and struck a concrete jersey barrier. He was alone in the car and speed is thought to have played a role in the crash

DM Officials-No On Urbandale Casino

Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie's thumbs down on the proposed $150 million hotel-casino complex in Urbandale. The Des Moines Register reports City Councilman Chip Moore's standing with Cownie, saying the Urbandale plan would yank profits from the Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, which are being used by Polk County to pay for the $217-million in bonds for the Iowa Events Center.

Suspended Frat Target of Sex Assault Investigation

Authorities haven't said if there's a connection between the two, but Iowa City Police say they're investigating a report of sexual assault at the Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter house on 9/11. The fraternity’s national headquarters yesterday suspended that chapter and expelled all of its members, alleging hazing and other violations.

DM Doc's License Suspended over Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Iowa's Board of Medicine's suspended the license of Dr. Brian Hansen, after investigating claims from six woman who alleged the Des Moines physician made improper sexual comments, sexual phone calls and other inappropriate sexual advances. KCCI reports the Board found letting Hansen continue treating female patients posed an immediate danger to public health, safety, and welfare. Hansen faces a hearing next month.

Store Video Clears Teens of Sex Assault Charges in Story County

Surveillance video's cleared two teens accused of sexual assault in Story County. The video from a Gilbert store shows 16-year old boy from Ames, and 18-year old James Carsel of Boone, buying a sandwich at the time they'd been accused of grabbing a 17-year old Hamilton County girl from her home and allegedly sexually assaulting her at Peterson Pits. Charges are still pending against a third person, 20-year old Mason Reilly of Ames.

Story Blogged at 09-26-12 15:05 by djennings

Store Video Clears Teens of Sex Assault Charges in Story County

Surveillance video's cleared two teens accused of sexual assault in Story County. The video from a Gilbert store shows 16-year old boy from Ames, and 18-year old James Carsel of Boone, buying a sandwich at the time they'd been accused of grabbing a 17-year old Hamilton County girl from her home and allegedly sexually assaulting her at Peterson Pits. Charges are still pending against a third person, 209-year old Mason Reilly of Ames.

Woman Charged in Ames Church Fire

An Ames woman's been arrested on charges tied to a church fire last night. 51-year old Tina Meyer's charged with first degree arson for the fire at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church at 2210 Lincoln Way. According to KCCI, responding firefighters could see flames through a 2nd story window of the church. Meyer's being held in the Story County Jail.

Nomophobia

Here's your word of the day - Nomophobia - first coined by British researchers during 2008 it denotes people who experienced anxiety when they had no access to mobile technology—yep, their cell phones. A recent study shows out of 1000 people - 66 percent worry about losing their phones. People between the ages of 18 and 24 were most dependent on mobile technology. Seventy-seven percent were uncomfortable away from their phones for more than a few minutes. Those 25 to 34 were only a bit behind, with 68 percent expressing similar feelings.

Bacon Shortage

Say it isn't so - a bacon shortage could be headed to your breakfast table - A British Industry group has announce a world shortage of pork and bacon next year is “now unavoidable." Word from Britain's National Pig Association - pig herds in Europe are shrinking and the trend is being seenaround the world. Blame is on drought conditions, especially in the U.S. and Russia, for taking a toll on the price of the grain crops used for animal feed.

Zit Zapper

If you've got an acne issue scientiats have determined that same acne might be the cure. The common, benign viruses living on your skin could be natural and effective killers of the bacteria that cause acne. They feed on bacteria and not human cells making them better at controlling zits.

Another Delay for Flores Retrial

David Flores retrial has been delayed again, and WHO-TV reports the new trial date won't be set until October 4th. Flores spent 15-years in prison, for the 1996 murder of Phyllis Davis during a rolling gun battle. He won a new trial based on new evidence in 2009. His retrial was supposed to start in May. Flores is free on $500,000 bond.

SAE Shutting Down BEta Chapter at U of I Over Hazing

The national headquarters of Sigma Alpha Epsilon has ordered its chapter at the U of I closed down because of hazing. The Des Moines Register reports the 107-year old Beta Chapter at U of I has had its charter suspended and its members expelled for failing to comply with its government laws. Last week, SAE suspended several members of its Gamma Chapter at Iowa State for unspecified violations.

Early Voting for November Starts Thursday

Early voting for the November general election starts in Iowa Thursday. Four years ago, over 30% of all Iowa voters had cast their ballot before the general election. This November's dominated by the Presidential race, but there are several big Congressional races including the redrawn 3rd District which pits incumbents Republican Tom Latham of Clive against Democrat Leonard Boswell of Des Moines.

DM Snow Crews Start Checking Their Winter Gear

The people who clear Des Moines streets of snow will begin testing their gear for the season from 9 to 11a.m. Thursday. According to KCCI, DM Public Works and Parks and Rec crews will be going over their gear at the city supply yard at 2107 Market St. There'll be another round of re-acquaintance and proficiency checking October 1st from 1 to 3p.m.

PTSD Help

New hope for those suffering from P-T-S-D - A federally-approved injection may be able to help. The injection, which takes approximately 15 minutes to administer, has led to dramatic improvements in some veterans who suffer from the disorder. With 23,000 soldiers set to withdraw from Afghanistan this year - estimates from the Department of Veterans Affairs show somewhere between 11 to 20 percent of them will suffer from PTSD.

Trampolines

The backyard will never be the same - U.S. Pediatricians are urging parents to keep kids off trampolines at home and at the playground. The docs say emergency departments across the country see nearly 100,000 injuries from the bouncy mats each year. It's estimated that the number of trampoline injuries nationwide has been dropping - from 111,851 cases treated at ERs in 2004, to 97,908 in 2009. But that doesn't necessarily mean the devices have become any safer.

Free Burrito Offer at New Qdoba's Opening Friday

Qdoba Mexican Grill's opening a new restaurant Friday morning at 2105 Ingersoll Avenue, and to mark the occasion, they're offering free burritos for a year to the first 50-people in the door when they open at 10:30a.m. The restaurant's part of a new building at Ingersoll near the intersection with MLK.

More Iowa HS Grads Taking AP Classes

According to the College Board, more Iowa students are signing up for Advanced Placement classes. The Des Moines Register reports the number of students in the class of 2012 who took at least one AP exam during high school's hit 9600, up almost 9% from 2011, and almost 35% higher than the number who took 5-years ago.

Suit Seeks DM School Board Sebring Records

The ACLU of Iowa and former Des Moines School Board member Gram Gillette, have filed suit to get the records of a closed door meeting over former Superintendent Nancy Sebring. The meeting was May 10th, the day after Sebring quit. The suit alleges the meeting concerned sexually explicit emails Sebring wrote using her district email account. KCCI reports the issue involves whether or not the board violated open meeting rules.

Changes May Be Coming for Hubbell Avenue

After scrapping a plan earlier this year to make changes to Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines' City Council's expected to approve a new safety plan for the same street. KCCI reports the new plan would re-stripe Hubbell from Easton Blvd. to E. 33rd Street, from 4 to 3-lanes temporarily for evaluation and public comment before a final decision on changes is made.

New Flavor

Its not holy but it is indeed cannoli - a new flavor from Ben and Jerrys hits shelves this week - but its only going to be around for three or four months. Marscapone flavored ice cream with cannoli pieces covered in fudge with a swirl of marscapone. Back in 97 the company introduced Holy Cannoli - vanilla pistachio ice cream with ricotta roasted oistachios and chocolate covered cannoli pices but it only lasted a year.

Healthy Hotels

Health nuts might want to head to Vegas - renovations at the MGM Grand include 40 plus rooms called stay well rooms that are designed to make guests feel healthier. The rooms run about 30 bucks more per nit than a regular room but they're touted to improve sleep, promote healthy eating and reduce allergens

Blood Pressure

Worried about high blood pressure? Grab some yogurt. A new study shows people who eat low-fat yogurt over a long period of time are less likely to develop high blood pressure. MOre than two thousand people werre tracked over 15 years and those who ate at least one 6 ounce cup of low fat yogurt every three days were 31 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure.

Suicide Deaths

Death by Suicide has taken over the top spot as the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S. - Previously, car crasshes were number one. While a number of public health efforts have curbed the number of car fatalities by 25% over the last decade, a new study shows suicide deaths rose by 15% during the same period.

Biker Dies in Crash with Semi

The Polk County Sheriff says a motorcyclist died after a crash with a semi just north of I-80 this afternoon. It happened on Northeast 15th Street near Northeast 51st Avenue. KCCI reports investigators say it looks like the motorcycle slid under the rear wheels of the semi. The accident's under investigation.

I-80 Detour Starts Tomorrow Night

Get ready for traffic headaches starting tomorrow night at 8. IDOT says it'll be shutting down the exit ramp from I-80 eastbound to northbound I-35/80 over I-35 for bridge work. The ramp will remain closed until 6a.m. Monday. A detour will be in place around the construction zone on I-235.

Three Charged with Voter Fraud

Iowa DPS says three people have been charged with voter fraud. The suspects are Albert and Linda Harte-Maxwell and Maria Ayon-Fernandez, all of Council Bluffs. KCCI reports authorities say all three are non-citizens, but registered and voted in the 2010 and 2011 general and city elections in Pottawattamie County. They've been released on their own recognizance.

Oil Spill Clean Up In Raccoon River

State DNR's working with the EPA and U.S. Fish and Wildlife on cleaning up a leak of used oil into the North Raccoon River near Jefferson. Authorities don't know how much oil they're dealing with. The spill happened last week, and the area affected is 10 to 15-miles downstream from where a valve malfunctioned on a storage tank at Kreiger's Greenhouse.

Pacifier Problems

Giving your baby a pacifier can be a way to calm them but it might be doing just the opposite in the long run for baby boys. A new study found baby boys who frequently use pacifiers may have an increased risk of developing emotional problems when they are older. Groups were given a common emotional intelligence test and those who reported they used pacifiers had lower scores generally than those who didn't use a pacifier

West Nile

It's slowing down but the the number of U.S. cases of West Nile virus rose by 19 percent last week marking this year as the worst for outbreaks since 2003. Just over three thousand cases have been reported to federal health officials. Earlier in the month cases were jumping by more than 30 percent in one week so things are slowing.

Bottle Bomb Found in Urbandale Mailbox

A third pop bottle bomb's been found in an Urbandale residential mailbox. It was last week in the 1400 block of 159th Street. Tow other bottle bombs went off in July, but so far, no arrests have been made. Similar bombs were found earlier this month in Johnston.

Export Initiative for Des Moines Metro

The Des Moines metro's getting a hand from the Brookings Institution to expand its exports. The Des Moines Register reports the area's been picked to be part of the Metropolitan Export Initiative. A Greater Des Moines Partnership spokesperson says the Initiative's a great way to get central Iowa businesses more competitive in the international marketplace.

Suspect Denies Des Moines Bat Attack

Des Moines Police showed up at 3206 Third Street late last night after someone called 911 reporting a man being assaulted by another man with a bat, and then a knife. Responding officers found the victim holding a rake. The alleged attacker, Charles Boy, was unarmed, and said he hadn't attacked anyone. A sword was found by the door, and Boy's been charged with assault with a weapon.

DM Crash Leaves Minivan Flipped on Roof

Des Moines PD say they found a minivan flipped over on its' roof after a crash at 46th Street and Aurora Avenue this afternoon. Witnesses say they don't think anyone was seriously injured. The accident's under investigation.

Conviction Overturned

A new trial has been orderd after a court has overturned the conviction of an Iowa man who has served 7 years in prison on charges that he sexually abused his daughter. KCCI reports - The Iowa Court of Appeals says Black Hawk County jurors were shown irrelevant polie photographs that during his 2005 trial. Jacobsen is serving a 25-year term on three counts of second-degree sexual abuse and three counts of indecent contact.

Recycled Pacemakers

Seems like the recycling craze may be hitting the medical industry - A new study suggests reusing pacemakers could help people in developing countries with heart problems who may not be able to afford new devices. The study finds devices removed during autopsies may have enough remaining battery life to be donated and used again. It's estimated that between one million and two million people die worldwide each year because they do not have access to pacemakers - the devices that send electrical impulses into the heart to help maintain a normal heartbeat.

More Sleep

When youre trying to lose weight you hear eat less and move more but now researchers in canada want to add get more sleep to your checklist. A study followed two groups who both cut calories but one group slept five and a half hours a night the other slept eight and a half - the group with less sleep lost 55 percent less body fat and 60 percent more of their Lean body mass. Less sleep meant they hung onto their body fat

Police Say They've ID'd Living History Farms Burglary Suspect

Urbandale Police say they have put a name to the man they want to talk to about a burglary at Living History Farms last week. The Des Moines Register reports several historical items were taken, including vintage coins and currency, valued close to $500. Police say the suspect tried, and failed, to break into the Flynn Mansion and summer kitchen area.

Southridge Mall Construction Update

Construction crews showed off some of the changes they've already made on the Southridge Mall today. A mall spokesperson tells KCCI five new starts are park of the development: Footlocker, GNC, rue21, Shoe Carnival, T Mobile and New China Buffet. 296,000 square feet of the mall between Sears and Target have been leveled so a new open-air store front design can be installed.

I-80 Ramp Closure Starts Friday Night for Bridge Work

Get ready for traffic headaches starting Friday night at 8, when IDOT says it'll be shutting down the exit ramp from I-80 eastbound to northbound I-35/80 over I-35 for bridge work. The ramp will remain closed until 6a.m. Monday. A detour will be in place around the construction zone on I-235.

Wind Energy Job Cuts Hit Iowa Hard

Siemens Energy, a wind energy equipment manufacturer, says it's laying off 615 people in Fort Madison, Kansas and Florida in part because Congress hasn't renewed a tax credit for wind energy. 407 of the cuts are at the wind turbine blade factory in Ft. Madison. KCCI reports the company's issued a statement saying the industry's seeing a sharp drop in new wind turbine orders.

Divorce Stroke

Men, if your parents got divorced before your 18th birthday researchers say you're more likely to have a stroke. A new study from the University of Toronto shows men from broken homes are three times more llikely to suffer a stroke than men whose parents stay together. The research showed no similar trend for women.

Autism App

Some at home therapy help for parents of autistic kids - there's an app for that. Australian researchers have developed a new iPad app called TOBY Playpad - giving parents the ability to provide therapy for kids as soon as they've been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The app helps them learn to cope with difficult social and psychological challenges.

Wire Fraud

A big pay day for a former office manager lands him a trip to prison. Word from the Des Moines Register - Ralph Schippers says he used the Granger Motors payroll computer system to put more than one point two million bucks in unauthorized direct deposits to his account since 1998. Authorities say the deposits - combined with one hundred and seventy five thousand dollars in improper paper checks mean more than one point four million dollars went missing over fourteen years. The money was spent on airline tickets - hotels - meals at restaurants in Des-Moines - jewelry and golf items. He's facing 20 years in prison

Interstate 80 eastbound reopens after wreck

One person was seriously injured in a crash on Interstate 80 near Altoona last night. The wreck involved two semi trucks... one semi was pulled over on the side of the road, and a second semi was driving by, when it crashed into the first, according to KCCI. The driver of the semi was seriously injured, but the injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening. Two people who were standing outside the parked semi when it was hit - suffered minor injuries. The crash shut down I-80 eastbound between exits 141 and 142 for a couple of hours, and it reopened at around 9:30 p.m.

Flores Attorney's Say Police Report Points to Diifferent Murder Suspect

Attorneys for David Flores say they've got more evidence not disclosed by prosecutors, suggesting their client may have been wrongly convicted for bank executive Phyllis Davis's murder 16-year ago. The Des Moines Register reports a 1996 police document suggested a "Crips" gang member, Raphael Robinson, now deceased, may have been in one of the two cars exchanging gunfire which led to Davis' death.

Wasendorf Pleads Guilty

As expected, ex-Peregrine Financial Group CEO Russ Wasendorf Sr. pleaded guilty in federal court in Cedar Rapids today to mail fraud, embezzlement, and making false statements to regulators in a 20-year fraud that duped investors out of $200-million. Prosecutors are recommending a minimum 24 years in prison term.

SE Polk HS Activities Director Busted for OWI

Kent Horstmann, activities director at Southeast Polk High School, got into hot water over the weekend, pulled over Saturday night by a sheriff's deputy for reckless driving. The Des Moines Register reports the 52-year old's been charged with OWI with a blood alcohol content of .169, more than twice the legal limit to drive. Authorities say it's Hortsmann's first offense.

Polk County Flu Shot Clinics Start Friday

Polk County's Health Department's holding close to 100 flu shot clinics county wide, starting Friday and running through November. Flu shots are recommended for kids over 6-months, and older adults and people with chronic health issues. Most major insurance plans are accepted, if not, it's $20, but no one will be turned away because they can't pay. More info's at www.polkcountyiowa.gov/health.

Ex DM Cop Pleads Guilty to Weapons and Domestic Abuse Charges

Ex Des Moines Cop Brandon Singleton pleaded guilty Friday to three weapons charges and one domestic abuse charge and faces a maximum 17-years in prison when he's sentenced in November. According to KCCI, Singleton's already been sentenced to 30-days in jail and drug treatment for the domestic abuse charge. He's in the Polk County Jail.

Medicine Burns

Some products meant to ease pain may be causing pain of their own -In some rare cases over-the-counter muscle and joint pain relievers may cause chemical burns. U.S. health regulators are warning that products that contain menthol, methyl salicylate, or capsaicin were found to cause first- to third-degree burns. Second- and third-degree burns occurred with the use of products that had menthol as the single active ingredient.

Smokers Sleep

If you had a tough time sleeping last night some reasearchers want to know if you smoke - a new study shows smokers may get fewer hours of sleep and have less restful slumber than non-smokers. Word from researchers - of nearly 1,100 smokers surveyed, 17 percent got fewer than six hours of sleep each night and 28 percent reported "disturbed" sleep quality.

Paul Ryan campaigning in Des Moines today

The Republican Vice Presidential nominee, Paul Ryan, comes to town today. Ryan will attend a Victory Rally at the Embassy Suites downtown. The You have to have tickets to get into the event, and you can get those from the campaign's website. The Victory Rally starts at 3:30 p.m., and doors open at noon.

Judge says 'NO' to Secretary of State

JUDGE WON'T TOSS THE VOTING RULES

Polk County District Court Judge, Mary Pat Gunderson has stopped Secretary of State Matt Schultz in his tracks.

The judge stopped his plan to dump non-citizens from the voter roll.

It is a temporary injunction that has muddied up the voter rules already. Gunderson said the Secretary of State's plan "created fear that new cititzens will lose their right to vote and maybe even be charged with a felony."

So the battle over voting rules just got kicked up a notch.

Iowa Bully Database

IOWA BULLY DATABASE

Iowa schools have a new tool in their arsenal to fight bullying in schools - the Department of Education launched a new database over the weekend.

Up until now, the state has had only one yearly set of reports to look at to try to get a handle on bullying. Now, thanks to the state anti-bullying and anti-harassment law from 2007, the state has moved into the computer age.

Bullying has become more of a problem all over the country in recent years and this technology will help to get a better handle on the situation in Iowa schools.

Ryan Comes to Des Moines

RYAN COMES TO DES MOINES

Mitt Romney's Vice Presidential pick will be coming to Des Moines this week.

On Monday, Paul Ryan will make a quick stop at the Victory Rally athe the Simon Estes Amphitheatter.

The event is free and open to all but you will need tickets to attend. Go to the campaign website for more information.

By the way the door for the Rally open at 1pm and the event begins at 3pm.

CRIME FIGHTING COUNCILMAN

COUNCIL MAN CRIME FIGHTER

Des Moines City Councilman, Skip Moore did more than talk about crime, he took it on. Police say he stepped in and stopped a crime in the City Hall parking lot.

He noticed a man trying to open car doors. He stepped in and stopped the intoxicated man who didn't realized anyone was watching him. A nearby detective came upon the scene and arrested the 23-year old.

Wasendorf Plea Requires Restitution

Under a plea deal, ex-businessman Russell Wasendorf Sr. will have to make restitution for the $210-million that disappeared from Peregrine Financial. The proceeds from any future business Wasendorf does must be handed over to the federal government, including any revenue from a book or movie about his alleged scam. He faces a maximum 50-years in prison when he's sentenced later this year.

Two Seriously Hurt in Polk Cty Car Crash

An air ambulance was called to a crash at the intersection of Northeast 112th Street and East University Avenue earlier this afternoon. One driver was choppered to a metro hospital, and other by regular ambulance. Police haven't released the names or the conditions of the two women involved in the collision.

Public Schools Share Grant for New School Meal Guidelines

Iowa public schools will be sharing a $348,000 USDA grant designed to help schools adapt to the new food guidelines that require more fruits and vegetables. It'll help to pay for teaching food service personnel learn new cooking techniques, menu planning, and help with nutrition education for children, parents, teachers and caregivers. Nationwide 32-million children have daily subsidized school meals.

Wife of Alleged Child Sex Abuser Pleads to Neglect Counts

Kijua Beaudrie could get a maximum 30-years when she's sentenced next month after her guilty plea yesterday to three counts of child neglect. Her 37-year old husband James faces trial in January on multiple counts of first degree sex abuse an d child endangerment. He's accused of repeatedly sexually abusing three of their 9-children while the family was living in a store in a Des Moines mall.

Wasendorf Plea Expected Monday

A federal magistrate says he'll release ex Peregrine Financial Group founder Russ Wasendorf, Sr. Monday, after he pleads guilty to bank fraud, embezzling customer funds and lying to regulators. KCCI reports the plea's part of a deal to resolve charges in the collapse of the company and the loss of $200-million in customer funds. Prosecutors want Wasendorf to stay behind bars until sentencing, and plan to appeal if Wasendorf's released.

Prosecutor Stunned by Prison Visitation Order for Children

A prosecutor says he's stunned by Judge Nancy Whittenburg, who's ordered Michael Roberts to bring his children from California to a Mitchelville prison three times to see their mother, Tracey Richter, who's appealing a murder conviction. Sac County Attorney Ben Smith says he can't understand why Richter still has parental rights since being convicted of killing 20-year old Dustin Wehde in her home in 2001.

FedEx Blocks Phone School Computer Order

Des Moines Police say someone almost got away with ordering $30,000 in computers in the name of the school district. FedEx contacted DM Public Schools when they spotted a shipment of 20-computers they were handling that was being delivered to a residential address. The address isn't being released, but police do say the individual who placed the order is not a school district employee.

Update on Missing Evansdale Girls

Evansdale Police are asking anyone who was in their community July 13th to come forward and speak to them about anything they saw the day Lyric Cook-Morrissey and Elizabeth Collins disappeared. Investigators say they've got information the girls were last seen that afternoon on Brovan Blvd. and later on Gilbert Dr. near Meyers Lake. There's a $50,000 reward for information.

Tuition Freeze

A tuition freeze could be on the horizon for Iowa's three public universities. Proposals released Wednesday by the state Board of Regents would freeze tuition next year for Iowa residents and could cut tuition by $1,000 a year in two years. University presidents support the freeze. The potential future cut would come from phasing out Iowa’s controversial tuition set-aside program. Tuition was raised 3.75 percent this year for most in-state students and out-of-state students are paying more as well.

Smoking Risks

If you're looking for that final push to quit smoking this one might do the trick - a new study shows middle-aged smokers have a far greater risk of dying of cancer during their lives than nonsmokers..... and it's a pretty big difference - for 45-year-old men it’s a 75 percent greater risk compared to nonsmokers of the same age and gender, and for 45-year-old women it’s a 64 percent increased risk.

Gas Spike

In a rare September spike - gas prices are expected to hit their peak for the year in the next few days..... but there's good news expected at the pump. Oil Industry Analysts predict that after this rise prices will start to fall next weekend. The average for a gallon of gas in Iowa today is $3.89 a gallon.

Iowa Public Universities Want Tuition Rate Freeze Next Year

The heads of Iowa's public universities are backing a plan proposed by Board of Regents President Craig Land, to freeze tuition for all state residents next year. The universities hiked tuition by 3.75% this school year. Lang says they can keep rates where they are next year thanks in part to higher enrollment at ISU and U of I. The Des Moines Register says part of the plan's getting lawmakers to raise funding by 2.6%.

Judge Refuses to Toss Suit Against New Schultz Voting Rules

A Polk County judge's refused to toss the lawsuit challenging Iowa Secretary of State Matt Schultz's new voting rules. He claimed the plaintiffs, including the ACLU didn't have legal standing to block the rules, imposed on an emergency basis. Judge Mary Gunderson disagreed, finding Schultz's actions, in secret and on that emergency basis, were ‘inconsistent with the democratic process.”

Casey's Buying 22 Kum and Go's in Three States

If regulators say yes, Casey's is buying 22 Kum and Go Stores in Iowa, North Dakota and Missouri. The Iowa stores expected to change hands in this area are in Pella and Marshalltown. The deal's expected to close in November. KCCI reports both chains are based in Iowa. Kum and Go has 400-outlets, Casey's around 1700.

DM City Council Gives Green Light to Cityville Housing Development

Des Moines' City Council's given its' blessing to the initial plan for the Cityville development just south of downtown. KCCI reports Hubbell Realty's 9-building project will go up at S.W. 9th and Murphy, near the new M.L. King Parkway. It'll have 288 apartments and almost 75,000 square feet of commercial space. Groundbreakings expected in the fall, with the first buildings opening in the spring of 2014.

Yes-There's a Reason Those F-16's Appear Lower and Louider

Iowa National Guard F-16's may be more noticeable over the Des Moines area for the next few weeks because of construction at the city's airport. The work's forced the fighter jets to use a different runway, meaning the F-16's could be flying lower and be louder over the south side near the airport. The airport upgrade work should be done next month.

WDM Kum and Go Clerk Shot

West Des Moines Police say a clerk at the Kum and Go at 5969 Ashworth Road was shot last night. 34-year old Joshua Pugh was taken to Mercy Medical Center with what are believed to be non-life threatening injuries. Police don't think the shooting involved a robbery. If you have any info, call West DM PD: 515-222-3320 or Polk County Crime Stoppers at 515-223-1400.

Ankeny and Wendt Settle Severance Battle

Ankeny's School Board and Matthew Wendt have ended their battle over the former superintendent's severance package. The deal gives Wendt 6-months salary, down from a full year. KCCI reports the district sued him, claiming he'd mislead them on whether or not he had a new job when he negotiated a $176,000 exit package.

HOME INVASION REPORTED

Police admit this is a very bizarre home invasion: a man held up by a saw and a plastic gun early Monday morning. It was 4:30 a.m. when Ruiz Rosando of Des Moines flagged police down. He told them just about an hour ago, at 3:30 am, four suspects broke into his home in this apartment building. Rosando told police that a woman knocked on the door, he opened it, the female ran away and three Hispanic males rushed in. They began to punch and kick Rosando and wave a plastic gun in his face. Two of the suspects then tied him up in the bathroom with his own belt and power cords, while one held a saw to his throat. Within a half hour, Rosando was able to break free. He was left with a few bruises and scrapes. He says he's also out more than $4,700 in valuables. This is the second home invasion in Des Moines this weekend. Another one took place on Saturday night, where two men assaulted and robbed an older couple.

BYPASS MAY BE DESIGNATED AN INTERSTATE

State and local officials continue to research and evaluate possibly designating a Des Moines metropolitan area bypass as an interstate.

Area leaders have been talking about designating the U.S. Highway 65/69/Iowa Highway 5 beltway an interstate for more than two years.

The beltway runs from Interstate Highway 80 near Altoona south to Des Moines and then connects with Interstate Highway 35 near West Des Moines. The beltway runs along the Polk and Warren county lines.

FATHER CHARGED IN ATV ACCIDENT

A 7-year-old Urbandale girl sustained several broken bones in an all-terrain vehicle accident over the weekend, and now her father has been charged with operating while intoxicated and child endangerment.

The accident occurred Saturday on a private gravel road in West Des Moines. 32 year old Andrew Stamatelos of Urbandale told police that he and his daughter were both thrown from their ATV after he struck a cement sewer pipe on the side of the road.

Neither was wearing a helmet. Stamatelos told police he drank two beers about 30 minutes before the accident. A preliminary breath test showed he had a blood alcohol level of 0.104.

HOUSING DEVELPMENT COMING TO DES MOINES

A $35 million housing development will bring big changes to downtown Des Moines.

Hubbell Realty said Cityville on 9th will be built south of downtown at S.W. 9th and Murphy streets.

The nine-building complex is expected to provide 288 apartments and nearly 75,000 square feet of commercial space at the site of the old Des Moines-Pittsburgh steel plant.

BIG BROTHERS/SISTERS CLOSING DOORS IN AMES

Just three years after opening its doors, the Big Brothers Big Sisters office in Ames is closing.

The decision came as a shock to those who are part of the program.


The Ames office is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa, so matches will be served through the Des Moines office.

Office supplies and files are being boxed up to send to Des Moines at the Ames office early next week.

IOWA SCHOOL ENROLLMENTS UP

Many Iowa school districts are seeing their enrollment climb, and they’re running out of room because of it.

Roughly a third of the state’s school districts are expanding, and those that are doing so are in the hundreds. Officials with the Iowa association of school boards say this rapid increase isn’t a fluke. Projections show it to be a continuing trend, so the need for permanent and timely solutions is that much more important.

VOTER FRAUD SUBJECT OF HEARING

Iowa Secretary of State, Matt Schultz’s efforts to stop voter fraud is the focus of a hearing today.

Earlier this year, Schultz enacted a new rule to remove registered voters who are listed as noncitizens on state and federal databases. Schultz says the rule is needed to prevent illegal immigrants from voting and plans to defend it at a legislative hearing Tuesday.

Two civil rights groups have filed lawsuits over the change.

Johnson School Bond Vote Tomorrow

Tomorrow's decision day for residents of the Johnston School District. It's the day voters will say yes or no on a$51-million bond issue to build a new high school. KCCI reports district officials say they've outgrown the current high school, which they want to convert to a new middle school for grades 8 and 9.

Des Moines Home Invasion

Des Moines PD are investigating a 2nd home invasion in less than a week. KCCI reports the latest was just after midnight in the 1300 block of 23rd Street. Police say the male victim heard a knock at his door, saw a woman outside; and when he opened the door the woman ran, and 3-men rushed in. They got away with almost $5-grand in jewelry, tools, and other items.

3200 Flags Part of Des Moines 9/11 Memorial

Over 3,200 American flags are being placed at Gray's Lake in Des Moines as part of a 9/11 memorial. Des Moines Park and Recreation is partnering with the United States Air Force to create the Tribute Trail. Each flag represents one of the 3213 people killed in the September 11th attacks. The flags are being placed today, and will stay until Wednesday.

New Custom Brew from Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee first seasonal private label brew, Bonfire Marzan Ale, is being bottled and was expected to be in stores soon. The beer's produced by Stevens Point Brewery in Wisconsin. The new ale's the fourth being made by Stevens Point for Hy-Vee. The other three are Red Granite Lager, Lumberjack IPA, and Woodpecker Wheat.

Heroin Indictments Unsealed

Federal prosecutors have charged 14 people with helping distribute heroin in the Waterloo area between 2007 and 2012.

The indictments in the case were just unsealed.


Prosecutors said the people involved helped distribute at least 1,000 grams of heroin.

Wandering Child Back Safe

A West Des Moines toddler is back with her family after she was found wandering alone the 2200 block of EP True Parkway yesterday morning. Police said the reunion happened after officers spent nearly eight hours of searching for girl's parents. A passing couple saw the girl outwalking in her pajamas. She only spoke Spanish; they only spoke English. Police said officers turned the child over to the Department of Human Services then began canvassing the neighborhood for the parents.

Search On For Escaped Inmate

A Linn County jail inmate who was hospitalized overnight in Cedar Rapids has gone missing.

Linn County authorities are trying to find 26-year-old Timothy Hill Jr.

Hill was taken to aHospital for overnight medical attention, but left late Sunday night. He was being held at the Linn County Correctional Center on charges of driving while barred, possession of drug paraphernalia, and providing false identification.

Authorities say Hill could be traveling anywhere in Iowa or perhaps even out of the state by now and are asking for the public's help to find Hill. They said he was last seen wearing blue hospital pants.

Man Attacked In Home

A Des Moines man says he was attacked by three assailants who tied him up in his own apartment and stole thousands of dollars in jewelry and other items.

The man told police he was in his apartment shortly after midnight early this morning, when he heard a knock at his door and saw a woman outside. When the man answered, the woman ran away and three men rushed into his apartment.

The man told police that the men punched and kicked him, and tied him up with power cords and his own belt. One assailant allegedly held a saw to his throat.

The man says his assailants ransacked the apartment and took more than $4,700 in jewelry, tools and other items.

Supporters Rally For Coach

Supporters are rallying behind a Des Moines high school football coach who was suspended after he allegedly punished a sophomore who posted a negative comment about the team on Twitter.

Athletes and other community members filled the Lincoln Rails practice field yesterday to show support for head coach Tom Mihalovich.

Mihalovich is under investigation for allegedly making sophomore Daunte Campero run until he threw up, after Campero posted a negative tweet about the team.

Drought Damaging To Christmas Tree Crop

Christmas trees in Iowa and other Midwestern states could become the newest victims of this year's drought.

The hot - dry summer took a harsh toll on tree seedlings, which growers say will affect the quantity and quality of the harvest seven years from now. .Growers have also reported losses in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan.

Growers say this year's crop, planted in 2005, will be as healthy and abundant as usual.

2 Juvies eBuisted in Attempted Arrmed Robbery Near DM Middle School

Des Moines PD say two boys, one 11 the other 12, have been arrested for an attempted armed robbery this morning 2- blocks from Harding Middle School. KCCI reports the victim says a boy wearing a school uniform threatened to shoot him if he didn't open his wallet. He didn't have any money and the boy ran off. Police say 6-other middle school students watched the attempted robbery from across the street.

Federal Charges for Alleged Walnut Tree Thief

A Des Moines man faces theft charges for allegedly removing walnut trees from federal property. The U.S. Attorney's office says 49-year old Randall Walker was indicted on five charges by a grand jury. The trees were alleged taken from River Place, Sycamore Area, Lake Red Rock and the Neal Smith National Wildlife Reserve. The trees, removed between January and April, are worth $40,000.

Romone Jackson-One of the DM Metro's Most Wanted

Des Moines PD need your help in finding one of the metro's most wanted, 29-year old Romone Jackson. He's wanted for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to KCCI, he's 5'4', 150 pounds, and has a pit bull tattoo on the inside of his right forearm. There's more information in the areas most wanted at www.mmw.dmgov.org

DM PD Investigating Attempted Robbery Near Middle School

Des Moines' Harding Middle School was locked down for a while this morning after a report of an attempted armed robbery 2 blocks from the school. KCCI reports the victim says a boy in a school uniform demanded he open his wallet or be shot. 6 other middle schoolers were reportedly watching from across the street. A pellet gun was found near the scene and one student's been detained for questioning.

Bubu Palo Suspended by ISU Hoops Over Sex Assault Charge

ISU basketball player Yempabou "Bubu" Palo's out of jail after he and Spencer Cruise were charged with 2nd degree sex abuse. Both 21-year olds are accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a home owned by Cruise's family back in May. ISU's head basketball coach says Palo's indefinitely suspended from the team.

BOY INJURED IN ATV ACCIDENT

Marshalltown police said a young boy was injured in an ATV crash Thursday night.

Police said the incident happened just before 9 p.m.

According to police, an ATV was traveling in the grass when the young passenger fell off the ATV and sustained serious head injuries.

The boy was air-lifted to a Des Moines hospital.

His identity and condition have not been released.

FAN BLADE KILLS MAN

An Iowa man died Thursday night in a freak accident while working on his car.

The accident happened near Council Bluffs.

Investigators said the victim was leaning over the engine when a fan blade broke off and sliced into his body. They said he tried to get back to his house but bled to death.

The man, whose name was not released, left behind a wife and child.

EAGLE IRON WORKS FINDS POTENTIAL BUYER

A buyer has signed a non-binding sales agreement to buy a longtime des moines manufacturer. Eagle Iron Works has signed a deal with a buyer, according to the register. A member of the aulmann group that founded Eagle says mcLanahan Corporation is the buyer... it makes equipment used to build roads and road foundation. That company is based in pennsylvania. Eagle had told iowa workforce development that the company was getting ready to close - meaning 100 jobs.

JUMPING INMATE FALLS FOUR STORIES

A jail inmate didn't waste anytime. When he saw a chance to escape, he took it. Instead of freedom, the man is now recovering in a hospital. Police say a a jailer was taking 21-year-old Tanner King, to the exercise room on the top floor of the Webster County Jail. An exit door was open for some reason, and he dashed through it to the rooftop. There he found he had nowhere to go so he jumped. Chief Deputy James Stubbs says it's now believed he was trying to jump to an adjacent building. Instead he fell four stories to the alley below....usually a fall that would kill a person. But King survived, and prbably will not be charged with escape.

Email Set Up for Tips In Missing Evansdale Girls Case

Authorities have opened an e-mail account to receive public tips and information about the disappearance of Lyric Cook-Morrisey and Elizabeth Collins from Evansdale in July. A state DCI spokesperson tells the Des Moines Register the address, ourmissingiowagirls@dps.state.ia.us; gives people an easy way to pass along what they know to investigators

Orascom Building Fertilizer Plat and Buys Weitz

Orascom Construction Industries will has decided to build the largest every project in Iowa, a fertilizer plant, worth $1.4-billion. The Egypt based firm's also buying The Weitz Co., the state's biggest construction company. State and Lee County officials have agreed to give Orascom an incentive package for bringing the fertilizer plant here that could eventually total $251 million.

Judge: No New Trial for Bertolone

A Polk County judge has rejected a request for a new trial from Anthony Bertolone. He's the ex Drake student convicted of drugging, then sexually assaulting one of his Chi fraternity brothers. Bertolone was sentenced to 20-years. His attorney's say the victim's medical records suggest he may have lied about visiting mental health professionals.

Welding Starts Titan Tire Fire

Des Moines fire officials say sparks from workers doing some welding started a fire this morning at the Titan Tire plant in the 2300 block of East Market Street. The fire started in a basement machine room. KCCI reports a sprinkler system helped contain the fire, and damage was confined to the machine that was being taken apart by the welders.

DEATH OF POLICE K9 INVESTIGATED

The Des Moines Police department is still investigating the death of one of their police dogs.

An autopsy will determine the cause of death of Harley, a 7 year old Labrador retriever assigned to the narcotics team. Haley was found dead iin an unmarked patrol car by his human partner, Officer Brian Mathis on August 29th. The air temperature in that car had reached the low 90's when the dogs body was discovered. Police believe the dog's death was heat-related.

Investigators are checking how long Harley was left inside the vehicle and whether the air conditioner was on or any windows were rolled down.

LOCAL MANUFACTURER MAY CLOSE SHOP

A longtime Des Moines manufacturer is looking for a buyer as it struggles to survive.

Eagle Iron Works has notified Iowa Workforce Development that the company is preparing to close its doors on Oct. 15. That would mean the loss of 100 jobs.

Reports say that LWBJ Capital Advisors in West Des Moines has been hired by the company "to explore strategic alternatives, including a possible sale of the company."

The 140-year-old manufacturer makes products for road construction companies.

PORK PRODUCERS MEETING IN DES MOINES

In the midst of some of the most difficult market conditions in years, more than 50 pork producers met in Des Moines yesterday and today to draft a 2013 budget for the National Pork Board that focuses on continuing to build demand for pork while addressing several challenging production issues.

The producers from throughout the country who make up the Plan of Work Task Force are continuing a planning and budgeting process that began earlier this summer when producer-led committees identified specific action steps designed to meet the goals in the board's strategic plan.

CHICKENS TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE

Scott County health officials said Wednesday some chickens that serve as an early-warning detection system for mosquito-borne diseases have tested positive for the West Nile virus. State health officials have confirmed 10 human cases of the illness, and several additional cases are being investigated. Polly Carver-Kimm of the Iowa Department of Health said it's the prime time for human cases to occur. In 2011, there were nine human cases in Iowa, and two deaths resulted from the disease.

State May Raise Tax Credits to Land Fertilizer Plant Project

The biggest business incentives package in recent Iowa history may be going up, as state economic development officials are considering raising tax credits for a proposed fertilizer plant in the southeast Iowa from $35-to-$100-million over 4-years to land the $1.3-billion Orascom Construction project. The Des Moines Register reports some opponents, and there are several, say the price is too high for 165 permanent jobs.

More ereaders and ebooks at DM Public Library

Des Moines Public Library has more ereaders and ebooks for you to check out. They're available to Des Moines of Windsor Heights, and you can either visit your neighborhood library or visit www.pldminfo.org for more information on the kinds of ebooks and ereaders that are available. Library ebooks are also available for download to Android, iPhone, iPad, iPod, e-readers and PCs.

Painkiller Doc Pleads Not Guilty to Manslaughter

A Polk County judge entered not guilty pleas today for Des Moines Dr. Daniel Baldi, who's charged with 8-counts of involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors say Baldi, who ran a pain treatment clinic until June, allegedly prescribed large amounts of painkillers to patients who overdosed and died. Baldi faces three wrongful death suits, and charges before Iowa's Board of Medicine.

Lincoln High Football Coach and Two Assistants Suspended

Lincoln High's head football coach Tom Mihalovic and assistant coaches Kevin Johnston and Larry Gamblin have been suspended while the Des Moines School District investigates a post football practice incident. The mother of the player involved has told KCCI her son's now enrolled at another high school and declined further comment.

COACH SUSPENDED

A local high school coach is on suspension.

School officials say Lincoln High School football coach Tom Mihalovic and two of his assistants are suspended due to a school investigation.

A spokesperson or the school district says this is an internal matter and will not comment until the investigation is over.

SUIT AGAINST DOCTOR

Two Des Moines families are suing a pain-treatment doctor, saying his carelessness led to their loved ones’ drug overdose deaths.
The families recently filed suit against Dr. Daniel Baldi, a pain-medicine specialist who already settled another wrongful-death lawsuit and whose state medical license could be in jeopardy. Baldi helped run an Iowa Health System pain clinic that was closed without explanation in June.

JOBS COMING TO LEE

Lee County Supervisors OK'd a development agreement this morning with Iowa Fertilizer Co., a subsidiary of Egyptian-owned Orascom, that paves the way for a $1.4 billion fertilizer plant in the Green Bay Bottoms.
The project would create 165 permanent jobs, paying about $48,000 annually, and 2,500 construction jobs.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority Board agreed in February to provide the incentives to Orascom to build the plant which will produce nitrogen fertilizer and other products that will be sold to farmers in Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin.

HIGHER SPEED LIMITS = MORE FATALITIES

In 2005, Iowa lawmakers followed a national trend. They raised the rural interstate speed limit from 65 to 70.

Since the increase, fatalities have increased 10 percent on rural stretches of interstate.

Police say that high traffic volume, high speeds, and the tendency to follow too closely all combined for the increase in fatalities.

To prevent head-on collisions, troopers and the Iowa DOT say they are working together.

The DOT has installed more than 200 miles of cable median barriers, and troopers are stepping up patrol in high crash areas.

Despite all this, it appears that the new speed limit is here to stay.

There’s evidence from travelers that say they’re comfortable at the higher speeds and the trucking industry indicates that 70 is a safe speed for them as well.

MOTORCYCLE CRASH VICTIM IDENTIFIED

The Nebraska State Patrol has identified a motorcycle passenger killed in a crash with a car near Omaha as 34 year old Barbara Truitt of Des Moines.

Truitt was a passenger on a motorcycle driven Sunday by 30-year-old Kyle Cihal of Omaha.

The motorcycle collided with a car on Nebraska Highway 31 at the Gretna exit of Interstate 80, on the southwestern edge of Omaha after the car had stopped after mistakenly trying to enter a freeway exit ramp.

SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED

Des Moines police have arrested a convicted sex offender wanted for escape and for failing twice to register as a sex offender,

Acting on a tip, officers arrested 29 year old Courtney Cortez Chestnut Saturday evening in the 2000 block of 22nd Street. Marshals had asked the public for help in locating Chestnut on Friday.

Chestnut was being held without bond at the Polk County Jail.

Fired Wells Fargo Worker Fighting Bsck

Richard Eggers, the Wells Fargo Home Mortgage call center worker, fired for putting using a cardboard cutout of a dime in a laundry machine in 1963 is fighting back. The Des Moines Register reports his attorney's filed complaints with the U.S. EEOC and Iowa Civil Rights Commission, alleging age, gender, and disability discrimination and could open class action lawsuits for other bank sector workers also fired this year for long ago crimes.

New Ordinance Cited for Change at Raccoon River Park

Things were a lot calmer and cleaner this summer at Raccoon River Park, and West Des Moines Police say it's all due to a new ordinance setting a $100 fine for drinking liquor and swimming outside the roped off area of the beach. That plus stepped up beach patrols worked so well, authorities say they didn't have to write one ticket.

DM Mars Cafe Making a Comeback

Mars Cafe in Des Moines the Drake neighborhood closed in August, but that may be about to change. KCCI reports a post on the cafe's Facebook page says they'll be back September 15th. The new owners say it's true, but they haven't offered details. The cafe was a spot where local artists and musicians got together.

Branstad Has STEM Meetings Planned Statewide

Gov. Branstad's got a series of public meetings planned statewide over the next month to improve education. Branstad says focusing on STEM, science, technology, engineering and math; will help Iowa students better prepare for future careers. They meeting are to get feedback on and better focus the program. You can find STEM meeting locations at www.governor.iowa.gov.

Kellogg Residents Ordered to Boil Water

The city of Kellogg in Jasper County is now under a boil advisory. According to KCCI the problem was caused by a downtown water main break. Health officials say Kellogg residents should boil water for at least one minute before using it. Repairs are underway, the lines will be flushed and sampling done for bacteria and chlorine content. It may be a couple of days before the waters cleared for use from the tap.

Organic

Think you're eating better by eating organic? Chances are you're not. New research show organic produce and meat typically isn't any better for you than conventional varieties when it comes to vitamin and nutrient content. But organic options may live up to their billing of lowering exposure to pesticide residue and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. there was no difference in the amount of vitamins in plant or animal products produced organically and conventionally - and the only nutrient difference was slightly more phosphorus in the organic products.

Escaped Inmate

An inmate who escaped from a work release facility in Davenport is back in custody. Word from the Iowa Corrections Department - Donald Tyler didn't return to the facility as scheduled on Friday. He's been part of the work release program since June 6. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2005 after being convisted for robbery

Sleep and Tablets

If you're going to bed right after setting down your iPad you may not be getting the best night's sleep - new research shows that all of those nighttime hours spent with your tablet can wreak havoc on your sleep. The bright light emitted from these tablets can suppress melatonin. That's a hormone that helps control sleep and wake cycles, called circadian rhythms. Word from researchers- Using tablets for two hours on their brightest settings suppressed melatonin by about 22%