DMPS Re-Audit Flags Conflict, Questionable Spending
(Des Moines, IA) — A re-audit of Des Moines Public Schools finds a conflict of interest and questionable spending tied to former Superintendent Ian Roberts. Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand says Roberts pushed for a school district contract with consulting firm Lively Paradox, without disclosing his connections to the company. Sand says Roberts co-authored two books with the owner of the firm, and was featured on its website. The audit found the district paid more than six-thousand dollars to the firm. The review also flagged more than 21-hundred dollars in questionably spent public funds to several nonprofit organizations. Roberts reimbursed the district before resigning last September.
Food Bank Of Iowa Struggling With Rising Fuel Prices
(Des Moines, IA) — Rising fuel costs are hitting the Food Bank of Iowa especially hard. The organization delivers to partner pantries and meal sites across a service area of 30-thousand square miles. The food bank’s truck fuel costs have increased 47-percent since February. Annette Hacker with the Food Bank of Iowa says the bank is spending about five-thousand dollars more per month for gas compared to February — the equivalent of more than eight-thousand meals. The food bank is funded by donations and has seen a rising need in food assistance over the last four years.
Man Who Fled U.S. To Avoid Attempted Murder Charges Sentenced
(Iowa City, IA) — A man who fled the country to avoid a trial on robbery and attempted murder charges is going to prison. Ali Younes is being sentenced to serve 50 years after being found guilty of choking a woman until she passed out and stealing her earrings on the University of Iowa campus four years ago. His parents served prison time for helping him cut off an ankle monitor and flee to Jordan in 2023. He later returned voluntarily.
Free Entertainment Lineup Revealed for 2026 Iowa State Fair
(Des Moines, IA) — From country and hip-hop to hypnotists and hometown traditions, fairgoers will have something free to enjoy every single day at the Iowa State Fair. Fair officials announced around 30 free acts, including country singer Jake Worthington and the Iowa State Fair Queen Coronation, along with comedy, tribute shows, and other family-friendly entertainment. Performances will take place daily across multiple stages. The Fair runs August 13th through August 23rd.
