"Trade Missions, Urban Needs, Air Supply Hits, Iowa App Launch"

Monica Holt Appointed CEO, Local Author's New Book, Economic Growth in Asia, Thanksgiving Giveaway, Air Supply Hits & More! Download WeAreIowa App!

Drone Des Moines, Iowa

Joke Of The Day

What do you call a person from Des Moines who's good at math?

An Iowan-atic!

Monica Holt Appointed as President and CEO of Des Moines Performing Arts

Monica Holt, a nationally recognized arts leader, has been appointed as the next president and chief executive officer of Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) starting in January 2026.

With 16 years of experience at The Kennedy Center, where she held various leadership roles, Holt is known for her innovative, collaborative approach in the arts industry.

Her expertise in strategic planning, budget management, and audience engagement will be invaluable in strengthening DMPA's role as a presenter and community partner.

Board Chair Ardis Kelley expressed excitement about Holt's appointment, highlighting her proven track record in fostering collaboration and innovation.

Holt's arrival follows the retirement of Jeff Chelesvig after a distinguished 30-year career at DMPA.

Local Author Pens Third Book!

Transforming Everyday Struggles into Mental Armor with AttitudeShield

AttitudeShield by David L.

Parker offers a battle-tested system to transform everyday struggles into mental armor.

This practical guide provides tools such as the "Tackling Fuel Conversion" method, Target Hunting System, and Script Rewriting Process to combat negativity and self-doubt.

Based on military principles and entrepreneurship, the AttitudeShield system has been tested and proven by those who couldn't afford to fail.

Parker's mission is to help readers take control of their mental battlefield and become more than they ever dreamed.

Stop reacting to life and start creating it with the AttitudeShield system.

Promoting Economic Growth Through Trade Mission to Southeast Asia: Building Relationships with Indonesia and Vietnam.

The website discusses an upcoming trade mission to Southeast Asia, specifically focusing on building trade relationships with Indonesia and Vietnam.

The mission aims to connect Iowa businesses with potential partners in these countries to explore trade opportunities and foster economic growth.

Participants will have the chance to learn about these markets, meet with government officials and industry leaders, and network with potential business partners.

This initiative seeks to promote international trade, expand market access, and encourage economic development for both Iowa and Southeast Asian countries.

Thanksgiving Giveaway at Wellmark Urban Dreams Highlight Community Needs amid Ongoing Challenges

The Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center in Des Moines hosted a Thanksgiving bag and gift card giveaway that drew hundreds of people, emphasizing the ongoing community needs.

The line to receive the giveaways wrapped around the building for hours.

Executive Director Isaiah Knox mentioned that the government shutdown did not affect their already high demand for food and resources.

Knox highlighted the long-standing issues faced by the community, such as discrepancies in wages, low-wage job availability, and challenges in finding good employment.

Despite the high demand, Urban Dreams aims to collaborate with other organizations to continue providing food, mental health, and employment resources.

Entirely Kids Day: Together at the Des Moines Art Center - A Celebration of Art, Connection, and Community

Celebrate the joy of creating and connecting at Entirely Kids Day: Together at the Des Moines Art Center!

Inspired by collaborative photography and vibrant portraits, this free, family-friendly event invites kids and families to explore how art brings people together.

Enjoy hands-on art making, movement, and gallery activities, including collaborations with Pied Piper Studios and Seedlings Children’s Theater.

Discover the possibilities of creating side by side in this celebration of art, connection, and community.

No registration required.

This event is part of the Principal® Foundation Youth Learning and Engagement Initiative.

Email jfeatherstone@desmoinesartcenter.org for accommodation requests at least two weeks in advance.

Quote Of The Day

"Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it." - Charles R. Swindoll

"Air Supply: A Half Century of Hits and Exciting Projects Ahead"

The show has a run time of 110 minutes with no intermission.

Only children aged 5 and over with tickets will be allowed into the theater for this production.

Air Supply, made up of Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock, have been perfecting their skills for nearly half a century.

They have achieved global stardom with their 80s hits and continue to perform over 130 shows a year.

Their impressive sales and airplay stats rival those of The Beatles.

In 2025, they will continue to perform their smash hits with their powerhouse band.

They also have exciting projects in various media lined up for the future, including a biopic and a Broadway musical.

Get the WeAreIowa App to Stay Connected and Support the Monsoon Food Pantry Launch.

To stream WeAreIowa on your phone, download the WeAreIowa app.

The app is available on the App Store and Google Play.

Monsoon Asians and Pacific Islanders in Solidarity are launching a food pantry early next year in response to increased need in the community.

Visit the WeAreIowa website for more videos and information.

Secret Little Hack

Make sure to visit the sculpture park during sunset for stunning views and photo opportunities.