Ankeny School District and City of Ankeny Do Land Deal

If voters approve a bond issue for a 10th elementary school in February, Ankeny's school district will be down to 34 acres of unused land. The school board's agreed to give the city 70-acres of a 90-acre tract at NW 36th Street and NW Irvinedale Drive in exchange for road and utility work to serve the new school location. But only if voters say yes to the $16-million bond issue.

WDM Firefighters On Smoke Detector Battery Detail Tonight

West Des Moines firefighters will be in the Valley Junction neighborhood starting at 6 tonight, to install new batteries in the smoke detectors of residents homes. Fire officials around the country usually issue a reminder for people to change their smoke detector batteries this weekend, in line with the switch back to standard time.

Court Denies Appeal in Film Office Scandal

Iowa's Court of Appeals have denied Wendy Runge's appeal of her 10-year prison term for her role in the Iowa Film Office scandal. The 47-year old Runge, claimed the trial judge improperly considered her criticism of the court and prosecutors in a blog post during her trial. The judge found the posts showed Runge hadn't taken responsibility for her actions.

Heidi Anfinson Granted Parole

Iowa's Parole Board today granted Heidi Anfinson's request for parole. Family members say she should be out in as little as 10-days, but she's expected to be home by Thanksgiving. KCCI reports Anfinson's 2-week-old son vanished ion 1998. She later admitted drowning the child and hiding his body in Saylorville Lake.

WDM PD Say They Even Stole the Kitchen Sink

West DM PD want to hear from you if you know anything about thieves who stole appliances, including the kitchen sink, during burglaries at the same home last week in the 1300 block of Crimson Street. Aside from the sink, KCCI reports the stolen items includes the stove, dishwasher, and microwave. If you know anything, call West Des Moines police, 515-222-3320.

IOWA PAY FARES WELL

A consultant's report says base pay for 18,500 state of Iowa workers is nearly 18% higher than comparable workers in the marketplace.

The report from Aon Hewitt says pay ranges for 11 Iowa positions were higher than the market, while ranges for seven positions were below market. The report released Tuesday also says pay ranges for Iowa's employees are significantly higher than those in other states.

MAN SHOOTS AT HOME INTRUDER

Des Moines police said a homeowner fired a shot at someone trying to break into his home.

Police said the incident happened in the 200 block of East Hart Avenue.

A man called police to say he had shot at someone trying to break into his home through a basement window.

Police said the intruder ran away. They do not believe he was hit by the shot.

JUDGE REJECTS GUILTY PLEA

A judge has rejected a guilty plea from a Waterloo man who's accused of ramming three police cruisers during a chase in Hiawatha.

31-year-old Bobby Wolf made a deal with Linn County prosecutors and was prepared to plead guilty on Tuesday to three charges stemming from the Aug. 25 incident.

Court records say the chase began after Wolf stole a pickup.

But when Judge Thomas Koehler asked Wolf whether he intentionally hit the cruisers, Wolf said he didn't remember but acknowledged that he was trying to get away.

Wolf's lawyer says Wolf was drunk that day, but the judge stopped Tuesday's proceedings anyway.

In pleading guilty, defendants must admit to the factual basis of their crimes.

BANK ROBBERS CAUGHT

Officers captured two suspects in a bank robbery in northeastern Iowa Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities said two men held up the Maynard Savings Bank Tuesday morning at 11:15.

Police said the men were apprehended about 7 p.m. without incident.

A chase followed the robbery, ending near the town of Frederika where the suspects, two white males, ditched their vehicle and ran into a wooded area, which also included a rock quarry.

Police officers heard a noise near the area they were securing. They followed the noise and found the two men crawling, trying to get past officers.

Two officers were shot during the chase.

Waukee Hy-Vee Should Be Open Next June

The Hy-Vee going up at East Hickman Road and Northeast Alice’s Road will probably open for business by next June. Plans were approved by the Waukee City Council in February of last year, a since then a convenience store and a Caribou Coffee have opened. The new Hy-Vee's expected to include a pharmacy and a cafeteria.

MidAmerican Sending Crews To Help on East Coast

MidAmerican Energy says it's upping the number of people they're sending to New York to help utilities there recover from Hurricane Sandy. 116-people headed east Saturday, and today 12-more joined them. Officials say they expect them to be on the east coast for about two weeks. 20,000 electrical workers are expected to be needed to get the power back on the East Coast.

Study on State Employee Pay Stirs Up Controversy

With the state getting ready for contract talks with its' unions, a consultant report today says the base salaries for almost 19-thousand state workers is 18% higher than their counterparts working for private and public employers. According to the Des Moines Register, the Aon Hewitt report also says when you take in minimum and maximum base pay, state workers are still competitive in the marketplace.

Story Blogged at 10-30-12 15:58 by djennings

Consultant Report on Iowa Worker Pay Controversial

With the state getting ready for contract talks with its' unions, a consultant report today says the base salaries for almost 19-thousand state workers is 18% higher than their counterparts working for private and public employers. According to the Des Moines Register, the Aon Hewitt report also says when you take in minimum and maximum base pay, state workers are still competitive in the marketplace.

Ankeny County Votes to Help With Plans for Casino

Ankeny's City Council's voted 4-1, approving a contract to help Wild Rose Entertainment get a license for a casino, hotel, and entertainment project near I-35 and NE 36th Street. The Des Moines Register reports Des Moines Mayor and the Polk County Commission are expected to oppose the Ankeny plan. The county owns the Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona.

Blast Damages Des Moines Home

$50-grand in damage, but no injuries when a medical oxygen bottle exploded this morning at a home in the 4100 block of East 30th Street in Des Moines. Ann Henrichs, the homeowner, says she left her oxygen bottle in the bedroom while she used the bathroom and had a cigarette. The blast blew out the windows on three sides of the house.

Ankeny City Council to Hear Casino Plan

Ankeny's City Council has a special meeting this afternoon to hear a proposal from Wild Rose Entertainment for a new casino on land near the interchange of I-35 and NE 36th Street. KCCI reports the casino was proposed for Urbandale last month, but was withdrawn. Work's been underway this summer on new ramps and the realignment of I-35 at NE 36th St.

Reward for Info in Doilinsky Murder

There's a $1,000 Crime Stoppers reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the death of Stanley Golinsky. The 56-year old's body was found Wednesday afternoon near Southwest First and VIne. Anyone with information should contact the Des Moines Police Detective Bureau at 515-283-4869. Based on his injuries, police have called his death a homicide.

Beefed Up Police Presence for Beggars' Nights

Area police departments and the highway patrol will be out in force next week as many communities have beggars night events. The Central Iowa Traffic Safety Task Force says the stepped up patrols will be out this Monday through Wednesday since they're expecting more people to be walking the streets for beggars night events.

Trowbridge Convicted of Murder

A judge found 22-year old Ryan Trowbridge guilty today of first degree murder and child endangerment resulting in death. Trowbridge was charged with killing his 4-month old daughter Rylee in 2010. Rylee died of head injuries. Trowbridge claimed he put Rylee on a bed for a nap and later found her trapped between the headboard and mattress. KCCI reports he faces mandatory life in prison when he's sentenced in December.

$-Busted in DM PD Undercover Operations

4-people were arrested by Des Moines Police in two undercover operations last night. 37-year old Bobby Palmer faces drug and traffic charges, and 33-year old William Pinegar faces drug charges and parole violation after a car chase that ended in a crash at SE 22nd and Evergreen. Two other men were arrested at 18th and Ingersoll.

Kijua Beaudrie Sentenced

Kijua Beaudrie's been sentenced to a prison term of not more than 30-years for each of the three counts of child neglect she pleaded guilty to earlier this year. She told the court she was ashamed for not stopping her husband from hurting their children. The husband, James Beaudrie, faces trial on sexual abuse and child endangerment charges for abusing 3-of their 9-children, and prosecutors say she knew about it.

DM Man Found Dead After Apartment Fire

Des Moines fire officials say 65-year old David Robinson was the man found dead in an apartment fire late this morning in the 2200 block of Stanton Avenue. Investigators say the blaze was confined to the apartments bedroom. An arson investigator's been called in. According to KCCI, water and smoke damage to the building's estimated at over $15,000.

Police Put Name to Body Found Near Des Moines River

Des Moines Police are continuing the investigation of the death of Stanley Golinsky. The 56-year old Des Moines man's body was found yesterday afternoon along th Des Moines river near Vine and Southwest First. Police say the consider the case a homicide based on his injuries. Investigators are talking to the man who found the body, and others in the area at the time.

Hy-Vee-Casey's Fuel Saver Program

Hy-Vee and Casey's General Stores have taken the wraps off a new Fuel Saver program. KCCI reports customers can save $2 or more/gallon when they buy groceries featured in Hy-Vee's weekly Fuel Saver ad. You'll get 2 to 25-cents off/item, which will be loaded onto a Fuel Saver card which can be scanned at the pumps at Hy-Vee and Casey's. Enrollment starts the week of November 5th.

Sweet Trial Date Moved to March

The trial date of teen charged with killing his grandparents in Manchester in May's been moved from next month to next March. 17-year old Isaiah Sweet's charged as an adult with two counts of first degree murder. Sweet's faces assault and other charges in a separate case. An adult charged with helping in the killings goes to trial in December.

Lightning May Have Started Menlo House Fire

Authorities believe a lightning strike started a fire this morning at a home west of the Des Moines metro in Menlo. According to ABC5 Menlo, Casey, and Guthrie Center firefighters responded to the scene, and say flames were shooting through the home's roof. One man was inside at the time and he was able to get out safely.

McDonald's Named in DM Sex Harassment Suit

A Polk County District Court suit alleges a McDonald's shift trainer sexually harassed two teenage girls in 2010 and 2011 at a Des Moines restaurant by making inappropriate comments, sending them cartoon porn images, and putting his hands on one of them. The Des Moines Register reports that when the girls, then 16 and 17, complained, they say their supervisor cut their hours. The McDonald's franchise owner and corporate officials have declined comment.

Temps Set to Nosedive Tonight

Hope you got out and enjoyed today's sunshine and warmth, because the National Weather Service says a cold front rolls in tonight into tomorrow morning, and in addition to showers and thunderstorms, the temps will plummet from today's near 80 degree high to the 30's overnight. KCCI reports tomorrow's high is expected to only reach the 40's. Strong winds, with gusts up to 30 mph are expected with the storms.

FIRESTONE DISPUTES BOSWELL COMMENTS

Congressman Leonard Boswell is defending his statements that a shutdown at the Firestone plant in Des Moines this week was due to the failure to pass a new farm bill, but the company says that is not true.
Boswell held a press conference Monday saying 1400 workers were furloughed at the plant because tractor tire sales have slowed as congress failed to pass a farm bill.
But Firestone company officials say it’s just a routine shutdown because inventory is too high.

STOLEN JEEP LEADS TO ARREST AND DOG BITE

A brief car chase Monday night in Pleasant Hill ended with a rollover and several men arrested on drug and theft charges.
Police said 24 year old David Negrete stole a 2002 Jeep Liberty from a woman he knew in the area. Shortly after she reported the theft, Pleasant Hill police spotted the vehicle.
The Jeep took off at high speed, and police gave chase, eventually hitting a curb and rolling over.
The only injury suffered in the crash was to a dog riding in the Jeep. When police arrived, the dog was biting one of the suspects while he tried to escape.
Negrete is being held at the Polk County Jail on $15,600 bail.
21 year old Isaiah Jackson, a passenger in the Jeep, is also being held at the Polk County Jail on $35,300 bail.

DES MOINES WATER RATES TO HOLD STEADY

Most Des Moines Water Works customers will see a zero rate increase in 2013, new Water Works CEO and General Manager Bill Stowe said Tuesday.
That zero rate increase applies to residential, commercial and industrial customers.
The Board of Water Works Trustees proposed budget includes $50.4 million of operating revenue. Operating expenses are expected to be $33.3 million and capital infrastructure costs $19.4 million.
A public hearing on the proposed 2013 budget will be held Nov. 27 at 3:30 p.m.

DM Social Club Closer to Getting Fire Station

The Des Moines Social Club's gotten another pledge towards converting a downtown Des Moines firehouse into a cultural center, with an art gallery, theater, bar and restaurant. The $150,000 pledge is from the Fred and Charlotte Hubbell Foundation. The Des Moines Register reports the Club's already raised $600,000, and city council yesterday approved a contract to sell the Mulberry Street fire station.

Iowa Woman Pleads Guilty in S.D. Bank Robbery

39-year old Marie Bock of Sioux City will be sentenced in January after pleading guilty to a bank robbery charge. Prosecutors say Bock walked into a South Dakota bank with fake dynamite strapped to her chest. She claimed she'd been kidnapped and told if she didn't rob the bank, the dynamite would be set off. She faces a maximum 20-years nd a $250,000 fine.

Guv Considering State Income Tax Option

Gov. Branstad's thinking about an income tax change that would let you decide whether not to deduct your federal taxes from your state tax liability or just pay a lower flat state income tax. KCCI reports Branstad's considering putting this into the property and income tax reform plan he'll give lawmakers next year. The state's highest income tax rate is 8.9%, but falls to the 6% ranger after federal taxes are deducted.

Parole Denied in Hit and Run After Robbery Case

Bruce Mundy's family gave a parole board an earful today at a hearing for Orlando Rodriguez. He and his brother Santos were convicted of stealing $27 in gas from a convenience store in 2009, and hitting the Iowa National Guardsman who was on his motorcycle, while fleeing the scene. Mundy died from his injuries. The parole request was denied.

Not My Kid-I Want My Money Back

Joseph Dier gets his day in court next June. The Grundy Center man's suing Cassandra Peters to recover money he spent over 2-years supporting her daughter, born in 2009. Dier claims Peters convinced him the child was his, except it turns out he's not the father. KCCI reports the State Supreme Court reversed a lower court ruling dismissing the case and sent it back for trial.

Story Blogged at 08-21-12 15:40 by djennings

Not My Child-Return My Money

Joseph Dier gets his day in court next June. The Grundy Center man's suing Cassandra Peters to recover money he spent over 2-years supporting her daughter, born in 2009. Dier claims Peters convinced him the child was his, except it turns out he's not the father. KCCI reports the State Supreme Court reversed a lower court ruling dismissing the case and sent it back for trial.

DM City Council May Cut 9-Jobs

Des Moines City Council's expected to agree to cutting 12 positions in the budget. KCCI reports only 9-of the jobs are currently filled, and they're in the Park and Recreation Department, and have already been notified. The city's expected to save close to $228-thousand in the current budget year. If the cuts are made, the employees will have their jobs until March 29th of next year.

Two Men Face $43-Grand in Fishing Fines

$43,000 in fines and civil damages, that's what's facing two Missouri men after Iowa DNR officers caught them setting up commercial fishing nets on the Missouri river the day before the commercial fishing season started. 43-year old Robert Housman and 39-year old Michael Dye face 74-charges for the alleged illegal harvesting of shovelnose sturgeon.

DM Robbed at Gunpoint During Craigslist Meet

Des Moines Police say the sale of a TV in Craigslist turned out to be a robbery. Aaron Jefferson says he answered an ad selling a TV, and when he showed up Friday night to get the television, near 4th Street and Court Avenue, the seller greeted him with a gun and a demand for all of his cash--$955. The case is under investigation.

Boone County Man Charged with Wife's Murder

Friends and family have a vigil planned at the high school in Madrid tomorrow for Jaclyn Powell. Her husband 28-year old Josh Powell's been charged with killing her in their Ogden home. He's in the Boone County Jail on $2-million bond. KCCI reports Powell's admitted to hitting his wife during a fight Saturday night, and that;s what killed her.

ESCAPED INMATE SOUGHT

A 24-year-old inmate has been listed as escaped from a work release facility in Des Moines.

The Iowa Corrections Department says Tibise Joseph didn't return to the facility as scheduled early Sunday morning. Joseph was assigned to the center in April.

In November 2009 Joseph was sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in prison. She'd been convicted of assault and theft in Polk County.

3 INJURED IN WEEKEND CRASH

Three people were taken to an area hospital over the weekend after a two-vehicle collision led to a rollover.

The accident happened yesterday afternoon at 63rd Street and Grand Avenue.
West Des Moines police said a vehicle traveling westbound on Grand T-boned a vehicle heading southbound on 63rd. Traffic was backed up in four directions while rescue workers tended the wounded and swept glass from the area.

Both drivers and a passenger went to the hospital for minor injuries.

The accident is still under investigation.

CASE OF EXTREME VOTER ASSISTANCE

A Des Moines man said he received an absentee ballot last week that had some selections already filled in, and the Polk County auditor said Sunday the case will be referred to the Polk County attorney’s office and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.

28 year old Daniel Cole is a first-year medical student at Des Moines University who requested an absentee ballot because he was afraid his busy school schedule would keep him from voting. However, when he received the last week, he said some selections had already been filled.

MOBILE RADAR LOCATIONS LISTED

Some helpful information if you're driving around Des Moines this week...

Des Moines’ mobile radar unit, which takes pictures of speeding vehicles so citations can be issued, will be set up at several locations during the rest of this week. And here's the info..


TODAY: 1900 block of Second Avenue (southbound)


TUESDAY: 5000 block of Grand Avenue (westbound)


WEDNESDAY: 2300 block of North Union Street (southbound)


THURSDAY: 3000 block of East Douglas Avenue (eastbound)


FRIDAY: 5200 block Southwest Ninth Street (northbound)

Ankeny police arrest 5

They struck Brenda Smith in the head with a tire iron and bit her. Smith awoke on Thursday to screams of her 22 year old daughter in her home in Ankeny. Five strangers in the home assaulting her, her daughter, son and daughter's boyfriend. The burglars broke in the door, kicked a hole in the large screen TV and caused extensive damage. Arrested and charged with assault of causing serious bodily injury and other charges were Janet Freeborn, Miranda Miles, Tyler Grove, Kelley Allbee, Keith Freeborn, 58, Thomas Mcelvogue, all from Des Moines. .The five suspects older than 17 remained in the Polk County Jail on Saturday on bond, except for Grove, who was denied bond because of a probation violation. Miles' status was not immediately available.

coats

On those coldest days of winter in Iowa, with wind chills pushing temperatures well below zero, it would be unimaginable to step out in the dangerous, freezing conditions without a warm winter coat. But many students here in Warren County do just that, because they don’t have a coat.

You can help.

As part of USA Weekend Magazine’s Make a Difference Day, you can help Keep Our Kids Warm by donating a coat for students in need. Just bring a new or gently used coat to one of our drop-off locations, and we’ll take care of the rest, working with Helping Hand to get them to local children who need them the most.

Bring your new or gently used coats to our drop boxes at Peoples Bank in Indianola, Carlisle or Lacona; Community Bank in Indianola or Norwalk; City State Bank in Indianola or Martensdale; Fareway in Indianola or Norwalk; or Hy-Vee and Drees Family Chiropratic in Indianola, by Oct. 29 and help Keep Our Kids Warm this winter.

— Amy Duncan, publisher, The Record-Herald and Indianola Tribune

coats

On those coldest days of winter in Iowa, with wind chills pushing temperatures well below zero, it would be unimaginable to step out in the dangerous, freezing conditions without a warm winter coat. But many students here in Warren County do just that, because they don’t have a coat.

You can help.

As part of USA Weekend Magazine’s Make a Difference Day, you can help Keep Our Kids Warm by donating a coat for students in need. Just bring a new or gently used coat to one of our drop-off locations, and we’ll take care of the rest, working with Helping Hand to get them to local children who need them the most.

Bring your new or gently used coats to our drop boxes at Peoples Bank in Indianola, Carlisle or Lacona; Community Bank in Indianola or Norwalk; City State Bank in Indianola or Martensdale; Fareway in Indianola or Norwalk; or Hy-Vee and Drees Family Chiropratic in Indianola, by Oct. 29 and help Keep Our Kids Warm this winter.

— Amy Duncan, publisher, The Record-Herald and Indianola Tribune

work

The final work on the West Des Moines portion of the Southwest Connector should be completed next year, and officials in Warren County are looking at the possibility of extending the road west to Interstate Highway 35.

Civic leaders are optimistic a southern beltway, along with a widening of I-35 south of Des Moines, will help drive development throughout the area.

“That brings a lot of traffic, and a lot of development and hopefully some money to Warren County,” County Supervisor Dean Yorti said of extending the Southwest Connector.

Work on the first two phases of the road through West Des Moines were completed in recent months and construction on the final 1,400 feet of the road should begin early next year, city Engineer Duane Wittstock said.

bomb

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A 26-year-old man has been sentenced to 22 months in prison for his role in the fire-bombing of a Des Moines apartment complex.

The U.S. Attorney's Office says Jeremy Cardell Dennis, of Des Moines, was sentenced Friday for malicious use of explosive materials.

U.S. District Court Judge Ronald Longstaff also ordered Dennis to serve two years of supervised release after his prison term.

Dennis had earlier pleaded guilty to joining with Gregory Harris on Jan. 3, 2011, when they threw three Molotov cocktails at the leasing office of the Deer Ridge Apartment Complex. The fires damaged the leasing office and two nearby vehicles.

Harris pleaded earlier to arson.

Two other men also pleaded guilty to charges in the case and are awaiting sentencing.



Read more: http://www.kcci.com/news/central-iowa/Des-Moines-apartment-bomber-sentenced/-/9357080/17068368/-/bsif3gz/-/index.html#ixzz29qGZqVd8

WDM PD After Stolen Credit Cards

West Des Moines PD are looking for your help trying to ID two people suspected of using stolen credit cards. The cards were taken from the victims car Monday at a fitness center, and someone else used them later that day. If you can offer any information, call Polk COunty Crime Stoppers at 515-223-1400. There's a $1,000 reward.

Threats Earn DM Attorney Suspension

A Des Moines defense lawyer's been given a 90-day suspension by the State Supreme Court today after they found Dean Stowers violated ethics rules by threatening a Senior V.P. and a board member of the Care Initiative nursing home chain. Stowers allegedly tried to use confidential documents from a sex-harassment case involving his now ex-wife, to force the two officials to resign and make a $100,000 charitable contribution.

Polk City's Getting s New Hotel

There's groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday for the first new hotel in Polk City in almost 75-years. The Des Moines Register reports the 44-room Boulders Inn and Suites in Polk City is going up on an extension of Tyler Street and be next to the Tournament Club of Iowa golf course. Construction of the $3.2-million Inn, is expected to be finished next spring.

Iowa September Jobless # Down to 5.2%

The Iowa unemployment rate dropped to 5.2% in September. It was 5;5% in August. State Workforce Development Director Teresa Walhert says the numbers paint a picture of a very slow and uneven recovery from the national recession that started in 2007. Iowa's unemployment rate is well below September's national jobless number of 7.8%, which was down from August's 8.1%.

Ex-Pastor Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation

Patrick Edouard, ex-pastor of Covenant Reform Church in Pella's been sentenced for sexual exploitation by a counselor, therapist, school employee or clergy; and having a pattern, practice or scheme to sexually exploit. The charges involved several women in his congregation. The judge also ordered that at the end of his 5-year prison term, Edouard serve 10-years parole or work release and register as a sex offender for life.

NWS: Expect Warmer and Drier Winter

The National Weather Service says it expects a warmer and drier winter through February. According to the Des Moines Register, they don't see any sign of the drought going away, although they do think it will shift a little to the west. How much snow falls, and the temperatures will determine many things, including how much Iowans pay for heat, and how much water's available for taps and crops.

Branstad Orders Flags at Half Staff Tomorrow for Pat Ward

Gov. Branstad's ordered all flags under the state's control to be at half staff from 8a.m. to 5p.m. tomorrow in honor of the late State Senator Pat Ward who died of cancer Monday. A memorial service for Ward's tomorrow at Plymouth Congregational Church in Des Moines. The flag flying over the state Capitol tomorrow will be presented to Ward's family.

Teen Charged in Car-Biicycle Crash

The Polk County Sheriff says the Elkhart teen who hit a DM public school teacher Tuesday night's been cited texting while driving and improperly overtaking a vehicle. Authorities say 17-year old Maria Claussen was texting when she hit 42-year old John Meyer from behind in the 1700 block of NE 142nd Street. WHO-TV reports Meyer, who teaches at Garton Elementary, is in fair condition.

DM Diesel Spill Traced to Hy-Vee Hall Generator

Des Moines Fire officials say a 2500 gallon diesel fuel spill came from a backup generator on the roof of Hy-Vee Hall. Some of this mornings spill ended up in a storm sewer that emptied into the Des Moines River. KCCI reports DNR and Des Moines Hazmat are keeping tabs on it; and authorities say the spill's below the city's water supply intake from the river and poses no danger to water the supply.

Windsor Heights to Sue Iowa DOT Over I-235 Camera Denial

Windsor Heights City Council's given a green light to suing Iowa DOT over its rejection of the city's request to install speed cameras on a one mile stretch of I-235 west. There are similar cameras already in place on the eastbound lanes in Des Moines near downtown. The Des Moines Register reports DOT's rejection suggested other options for safety be considered, including overhead speed displays.

DM Could be In Trouble Over Federal Garage Grant Money

Federal officials are investigating whether the city of Des Moines improperly spent over $8-million in revenue from the 7th and Center streets garage on DART and property tax offsets Des Moines residents pay for DART since 2004. The Des Moines Register reports if the federal government finds the city spent the money improperly, it could mean a property tax hike so a $15-million grant the city got to build the garage can be repaid.

3-in Custody for Delivery Driver Robberies

Des Moines PD now have three suspects in custody for a string of food delivery driver robberies earlier this month. The Des Moines Register reports they're still looking for 18-year old Kewone Tigues. The three in custody are 21-year old Jordan Dawson, 17-year old Destinee Cleaton, and a 16-year old boy. 18-year old Kewone Tigues hasn't been arrested yet. All four face robbery charges.

State Auditor Going Over Lincoln High Football Finances

The state auditor's office has been investigating the finances of the Lincoln High School football program for the last few weeks, at the request of the Des Moines School District. KCCI reports fired coach Tom Mihalovich's says he welcomes it, adding he's invested thousands of his own money in the program over the last 12-years and says its appalling that money he handed to school officials from fundraising never got into the district's account.

Troopers Honored

Two Iowa State Patrol troopers who were killed in the line of duty will be honored by having two bridges in southwest Iowa named after them. The bridges will be dedicated Thursday in honor of Troopers Lance Dietsch and Stan Gerling. The bridges are on US Highway 6 near Lewis. Both men were killed in 1989 in an airplane crash when they were searching for an elderly man who had wandered away from a nursing home.

Warren County Starting to Look at Extending SW Connector

The West Des Moines piece of the Southwest Connector should be done next year, and the Des Moines Register reports Warren County officials are looking at extending it west to I-35. They're hoping a southern beltway along with the widening of I-35 south of Des Moines will give a boost to economic development in the county.

DM PD Make Arrest in Food Delivery Robberies

Des Moines PD say they've arrested Jordan Dawson on multiple robbery counts. Investigators say the 21-year old's one of two people allegedly involved in 5-food delivery driver robberies earlier this month. The Des Moines Register reports he's in the Polk County Jail on $125,000 bond.

Hubbell Ave. Lane Reduction Meeting Tonight

Des Moines officials will be at East Side Library at 6 tonight to hear your thoughts on a plan to cut Hubbell Ave. from four to three lanes between Easton Blvd. and E. 33rd St. The city says
traffic studies show 60-accidents/year for the past 5-years on Hubbell between E. 18th and E. 33rd. The change would be reviewed for several months before any final decision's made.

Guv Wants Tax Reform

With cash reserves and economic emergency fund accounts full, Gov. Branstad wants the legislature to consider changes in individual income and corporate state taxes as well as property taxes when they return in January. The state ended the fiscal year in June with $412-million in total revenue growth, $260-million more than expected.

Wasendorf Update Website

The U.S. attorney's office in Cedar Rapids has a phone line and website page up to provide updates to victims on court actions involved ex-Peregrine Financial CEO Russell Wasendorf, Sr. He pleaded guilty last month to blowing $200-million in investor's money over 20-years, and trying to hide what he'd done. The phone number is 319-297-3711. The website: www.justice.gov/usao/ian/VWwasendorf.html

Teens From Johnston Group Home Face Charges

Johnston Police have charged 3-teenaged boys with burglary and criminal mischief after a theft from a care center and damage, estimated at over $5100, done at two Johnston businesses. The boys, 13, 15, and 16, ran away from Youth Homes of Mid-America Oct. 7. The Des Moines Register reports one returned voluntarily, the other two were found in Grimes.

State Sen. Pat Ward Dies

State Senator Pat Ward lost her battle with cancer this morning. Ward, a republican, represented the 30th District in Clive, since 2004. KCCI reports Ward served on the several committee's including Commerce, Environment and Energy Independence, and Judiciary. A special election's December 11th between Wards' current challenger, Desmund Adams, and a candidate that'll be picked by the GOP.

Branstad Wants to Cut Taxes

Gov. Branstad says he's going to cut individual and corporate income tax rates. According to KCCI, the Governor plans to limit residential and agriculture property taxes as a way of raising the state's ability to compete when it comes to tax rates. Iowa's tax climate's rated 42nd out of the 50 states. Branstad says his plan will raise personal income and job growth.

Rough Weather Tomorrow Afternoon and Evening

Scattered thunderstorms are expected tonight, especially north of Highway 30. The severe weather mentioned yesterday is now expected to hit tomorrow afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service forecast calls for the chance of large hail and damaging winds, as well as an isolated tornado in areas south of I-80.

Story Blogged at 10-12-12 14:49 by djennings

Homeless Camp Fire in Des Moines

Des Moines fire crews were called to the area south of the State Capitol complex early this morning to put out fire in a homeless camp. Their work was tough because there weren't any fire hydrants near the fire scene, and KCCI reports there were also several propane tanks near the fire. A firefighter says it didn't look like there was anyone in the camp at the time of the fire.

Storm's Expected to Move in Tonight

New forecasts say the severe weather predicted for Iowa are now expected mainly in the central and southern part of the state. The National Weather Service says thunderstorms are expected to move in late tonight and continue through tomorrow, with the roughest weather expected in the afternoon and evening; including high winds, hail, and few tornadoes.

Driver in I-80/35 Wrong Way Crash Four Times Over Booze Limit

Investigators say Brandon Anderson, one of the two drivers killed in a wrong way head on crash last week on I-80/35 had a blood alcohol content of .304 . KCCI reports investigators believe the 25-year Des Moines man may have been going over 100 mph when he slammed into 53-year old Kevin O'Sullivan's car. The crash is still under investigation.

Clive PD Not Happy With Prank 911 Call

Clive Police aren't happy with the person who make a prank 911 call last night claiming his father had shot his mom and taken his sister hostage. When officers got to the address--it was a vacant home up for sale. Clive PD say its' part of an unpleasant national trend using internet phones to prank emergency calls to police, that can have resources tied up for a real emergency.

Exile BreweryBuilding Gets Crowned

A full-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty's crown was added to the Exile Brewing Company on Walnut Street this afternoon. KCCI reports the Exile's owner R.J. Tursi says "The Gateway Colossus," is not just a crowning achievement for the brewery but also for the Western Gateway Park area and downtown Des Moines revitalization. The Tursi family emigrated to this country past the real Lady Liberty.

Task Force Recommends Raising Teacher Starting Pay

A state education reform task force's is recommending raising minimum starting salary for teachers from $28,000 to $35,000, and calling for a raise for special education teachers. State Education Director Jason Glass says the task force isn't calling for a tax hike to cover the cost. KCCI reports the recommendations providing opportunities for advancement other than being a principal.

State Launching Offender Watch Program

Iowa's starting a new services letting victims and others get real-time notice whenever registered sex offenders notify officials of a change of address, or when an offender moves in or out of an area predefined by a system user. Under the new Offender Watch program, automatic notifications will be made via phones or text messages. The website's: www.iowasexoffender.com/notifications.

Mihalovich Meets DM School Board Tonight

The attorney for suspended Lincoln High School football coach Tom Mihalovich is taking issue with the Des Moines school district report alleging his client violated district policies, including those on bullying and harassment. Attorney Marc Ward says there are inconsistencies in some of the facts presented by the report; and he called for his clients reinstatement. Mihalovich meets with the Board of Ed to talk about it all tonight

Story Blogged at 10-10-12 15:21 by djennings

Details in Grand View University Lawsuit Released

We now know the details of the lawsuit against Grand View University and six students. KCCI reports surveillance video shows 19-year old Cameron Fagen knocked to the floor by classmates, then rolled up in a carpet, duct taped, and propped up in a corner of the room, until he fell jaw first to the floor. Fagen's suit seeks damages for medical bills, mental and physical pain and loss of enjoyment of life.

Suspended Coach's Attorney Questions District Report Findings

The attorney for suspended Lincoln High School football coach Tom Mihalovich is taking issue with the Des Moines school district report alleging his client violated district policies, including those on bullying and harassment. Attorney Marc Ward says there are inconsistencies in some of the facts presented by the report; and he called for his clients reinstatement.

Wasendorf Stays in Jail

A federal judge's ruled Russell Wasendorf, Sr. will stay in jail. U.S. District Judge Linda Reade ruled Wasendorf didn't convince her that he didn't have the means and reasons to run if he were released while awaiting sentencing. The former Peregrine Financial CEO's pleaded guilty to misspending investor's money over 2-decades and lying to cover it up.

Severe Weather Possible Statewide Friday and Saturday

Storm chasers and meteorologists are watching Iowa's weather over the next couple of days since the National Storm Prediction Center issued a forecast for potentially severe weather for the state Friday and Saturday, including high winds and the possibility of tornadoes. The rocky weather's expected to start Friday night with storms continuing through Saturday.

MidAmerican Rate Hike Approved

Iowa's Utilities Board has approved a rate hike for MidAmerican Energy to cover rising costs. MidAmerican raised rates 4% already this year. With the rate hike coming next year, the total increase for both years will be 6.7%. Customers are already paying $2.33/month more, and next year's hike will add another $1.30. MidAmerican has 770,000 customers in Iowa.

Tourism's Been Good to the DM Metro

The Des Moines metro's been doing very well when it comes to hospitality, with visitors pumping $1.8-billion into the economy, up 12.5% from the previous year; and adding over 400 new hospitality industry jobs in Polk and Dallas counties. The Des Moines Register reports among the events bringing people in last year-NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships, and the World Pork Expo.

Victim's Family Hoping for Arrest in 2011 Murder

A year ago today, Marion Harris was killed in a shooting on a restaurant patio on E 14th Street. His family and friends are hoping Des Moines Police will make an arrest. The Des Moines Register reports police will only say the case is still open and detectives are working with the Polk County Attorney's Office. Harris' murder is one of only two unsolved killings from last year.

DM PD Officer Suspended in K9 Partner's Death

The death of Des Moines Police K9 Harley, in a hot patrol unit in August, has led to a three day suspension for his human partner, officer Brian Mathis. The department says Mathis is still dealing with the loss, and going forward, won't be allowed another K9 partner. KCCI reports the department's looking at safety devices for units with K9's to make sure this doesn't happen again.

Iowa Getting New Programs Thanks to STEM

800-plus schools and community groups statewide will offer new programs aimed at raising access to and interest in science, technology, engineering and math education. The Des Moines Register reports it's the work of the Governor's STEM Advisory Council, which has been working on putting more attention on those areas to better equip the state's workforce for future jobs.

Wayward Bull in Des Moines Captured

Des Moines PD was called to the 3400 block of Scott Avenue around 12:30 this afternoon, after a bull was reported on the loose near Southeast 30th and Scott, near the Iowa State Fair. The animal disappearing into a cornfield. Five people on horseback and three dogs were called in, and the bull was found a little before three.

WMD Limiting Emergency Help to Non-City Residents

West Des Moines Human Services has decided to limit the emergency help to people who don't live in the city. The Des Moines Register reports the agency's been hit by a big jump in demand when there's less state funding and a slump in local grants. The decision will impact low income residents with emergency housing and utility issues in Clive, Urbandale, and Windsor Heights.

SUV Hits Sign, That Flys Through Windshield

A Des Moines woman had to be checked out at a hospital this morning after she apparently blacked out behind the wheel of her SUV and hit a reflective pole on Highway 65 near Army Post Road. Polk County Sheriff's deputies say the sign apparently broke off and went through the windshield. KCCI reports 31-year old Desiree LeBlanc's injuries weren't life threatening.

NWS Sees No Relief From Drought

The change of season's apparently not changing anything when it comes to rain. The National Weather Service’s drought forecast says it'll continue or get worse through the end of the year. The Des Moines Register reports most of the state gets 29" of rain for the first nine months of the average year. This year, the number's only 20".

Quesrtions Remain About Mountain Lion in Des Moines

How did a mountain lion end up in the back yard of a Des Moines home? That's what authorities want to know after a Des Moines Police officer shot and killed it yesterday in the 3900 block of Columbia Street. KCCI reports the animals remains are on ice and awaiting testing by a DNR wildlife biologist. A DNR spokesperson says finding a mountain lion in a city is extremely rare.

DM Man's Dead Not Considered Suspicious

The Polk County Sheriff's Office says the preliminary investigation into the death of a man found in a home at 4410 NE 34st Street in Des Moines has found the case not suspicious. KCCI reports authorities expect to have more information on what happened to 52-year old Michael Pratt when toxicology results come back in a couple of weeks.

DM School Report on Lincoln High Coach Not Good News

Des Moines school officials say the suspended football coach at Lincoln High School violated district policies for bullying, harassment and corporal punishment in an incident involving a former player. The Des Moines Register reports district investigators found Tom Mihalovich also violated several rules of conduct. 2-of the schools assistant football coaches have also been suspended.

Suspect Pleads Not Guilty in DM Church Arson

A not guilty plea from 56-year old James Galbo, who's charged with arson in an August fire at the Lighthouse Full Gospel Baptist Church in Des Moines. WHO-TV reports the church was occupied at the time the fire was started, serving as a homeless shelter. No one was hurt, but the church was destroyed.

Ex-HS Coach Gets 5-years for Student Relationship

An ex Davis High School assistant girls basketball and baseball coach at Davis County High School's been sentenced to 5-years in prison on charges tied to having a sexual relationship with a student. 34-year old Patrick Nicoletto was found guilty of sexual exploitation by a counselor, therapist or school employee. He will have to register as a sex offender.

DM PD Kill Mountain Lion

Authorities shot a mountain lion in the 3900 block of Columbia Street in Des Moines this morning. KCCI reports the first responding officer says he couldn't believe he was staring at a 6'3" mountain lion. Unfortunately, the lion tried to make a run for it, and there wasn't time to wait for someone with a tranquilizer gun, so the officer, armed with a shotgun, put the lion down.

Work's Started on Asian Carp Barrier

Construction's started on an electric barrier to keep leaping Asian carp out of the Iowa Great Lakes after Minnesota provided the final piece of financing. Minnesota DNR's come up with the final $261,000 for the barrier atop the Lower Gar Lake dam that outlets to Mill Creek. Iowa's DNR's come up with $300,000 and lake associations, local governments and private donors have come up with $400,000 for the project.

Appeals Court Upholds Murder Conviction

Renard Andrews stays in prison. Iowa's Court of Appeals has affirmed the Des Moines mans murder conviction. Andrews was convicted of the 2010 murder of LeCarlton Henderson. He'd been shot to death and his body found behind the wheel of an SUV. WHO-TV reports the court rejected Andrews claim that a mistrial should've been declared, and evidence of prior bad acts shouldn't have been admitted.

More Info in Head-On I-80 Crash

Investigators say booze and distracted driving were both involved in yesterday's deadly head on crash on I-80. Police are waiting for blood alcohol tests, but they say 25-year old Brandon Anderson had been drinking before hitting the road. The other driver, 53-year old Kevin O'Sullivan, apparently had a DVD on in his car, and it was still playing when rescuers arrived.

Copper Wire Stolen from DM Plant

American Concrete Plant workers got a surprise when they walked into the now unused plant at 1626 Dixon Street in Des Moines yesterday. All of the copper in the electrical boxes was gone. KCCI reports the theft happened sometime between September 10th and yesterday. The price tag on the damage's as high as $150,000.

Authorities Warn About Hidden Pot Farms

State drug agents are asking farmers and hunters to keep an eye out for large marijuana plots. Authorities say several recent busts have led them to believe growers have been hiding them in rural densely wooded timber areas. Authorities fear confrontations could develop between unsuspecting landowners or hunters and the squatters who have set up illegally on private land.

Runner Hit by Car Dies

Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, says the 13-year-old cross country runner, who was hit by a car during practice last night near Tama has died. The driver of the car that hit Ian McFate's been identified as 30-year old Timothy Nunnikoven. McFate was an 8th grader in the South Tama County School District. The crash remains under investigation.

Audit Requested of Schultz Using Fed Funds for Voter Purge

Democratic State Sen. Tom Courtney's asked for state and federal audits of the use of federal funding for an effort to remove ineligible names from the state’s voter rolls by GOP Secretary of State Matt Schultz. The Des Moines Register reports there's no evidence Schultz has asked to use any HAVA money to pay for an investigator to check into Iowans.

Lincoln F'ball Coach Supporters Expected at DM School Board Meeting

Supporters of suspended Lincoln High School football coach Tom Mihalovich are expected out in force at tonight's Des Moines School Board meeting. KCCI reports Mihalovich was suspended about a month ago over an incident during practice. The district's been investigating, but haven't said when their work will be done. The board meets tonight at 6 at the Central Campus.

USPS Hearings on Cutting Post Office Operating Hours

The U.S. Postal Service has a series of meetings planned to hear what you think of their plans to cut the hours at 110 post in Iowa offices. The hours would be cut from 2 to 6 hours/day. The first set of meetings are next week. The postal service is trying to do what it can to cut costs as it struggles under a substantial budget shortfall.

Boone Cemetery Vandalism

A team of volunteers is working ]to repair the damage caused by vandals at a Boone cemetery. KCCI reports vases and tombstones were knocked over at almost 100 grave sites. It's believed the vandalism happened late Thursday or early Friday at Linwood Park Cemetery. There's a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. If you know anything, call 515-432-3456.

Blue Shirt Day

Today's Blue Shirt Day, a nationwide effort to prevent bullying. KCCI reports students were encouraged to wear blue, and teachers spent part of their day educating students about bullying and ways to stop it whether they're a victim, a bystander or the one bullying someone. With so many kids using social media, the West Des Moines Community Education has an Internet safety discussion Oct. 18.

US Supreme Court Refuses to Hear DM Franchise Fee Case

Lawyers in the class-action suit against Des Moines franchise fee on natural gas and electric bills, say they'll file papers in the next few days for a judge to order $40-million in refund checks to residents who shouldn't have been paying the fee. The U.S. Supreme Court today declined to hear a city appeal to a lower court ruling finding the 5% fee too high to justify.

Police Investigate Ankeny Teens Shooting

Ankeny Police continue to investigate yesterday's shooting of a 13-year-old boy at the home of a friend. Michael Wells is in critical condition after he was shot in the head. He was with another 13-year old when the shot was fired. Two other teens were in the home at the time, and KCCI reports police are treating them as witnesses. None of the parents of any of the teens were present.

Milk Prices Could Climb

If a new Farm Bill isn't approved by congress soon, milk prices could go as high as $6/gallon. KCCI reports the old bill expired yesterday, returning government support for agriculture back to 1949 rules, which could mean higher prices not only for milk, but cotton, and other farm products since farmers will get less USDA support.

Happy Birthday

Where did the time go - the compact disc turns 30 today. The first commercial compact disc was Billy Joel's "52nd Street," and it was released in Japan. The first CD player also came out on October 1st, 1982 and even though streaming your music is the new wave CDs still account for the majority of album sales in the U.S. In the first half of 2012, 61% of all albums sold were CDs, according to the Nielsen Company and Billboard.

Flu Shots

Hard to believe but it's flu shot time once again. A new report shows babies and toddlers seem to be getting protected better than the rest of us. A reminder that last year's shot won't protect you this year and there are two new strains of influenza out there - the good news is the updated flu vaccine looks to be working well against them.