Mold Remediation in Des Moines, IA

When Jacori Teemer first arrived at Iowa after transferring from Arizona State, his heart was racing. He said he felt like he lost 10 pounds on the first day alone because of nerves.

Oklahoma transfer Stephan Buchanan arrived in Iowa City at the same time, hoping to find the key to winning a national title. He had the same type of jitters.

"I definitely thought it would be a lot more of a hostile environment," Buchanan said.

Given the intensity of the coaching staff, combined with the influx of transfers and arrivals, what Iowa's culture looked like with this new roster was a question. Not one that coach Tom Brands wanted to answer. He wanted his athletes to speak for themselves.

"I'm not going to sit here and tell you that we have great culture in our room," Brands said. "You figure that out for yourself."

Within that room, one word continuously arose from asking wrestlers about the culture.

Family.

That comes in many shapes and forms. Sophomore Gabe Arnold told tales of playing "Call of Duty Black Ops 6" with the team, badgering one another to get on to play some video games. In his seventh year with the team, Nelson Brands gets heckled by redshirt freshman Ryder Block for having a mortgage.

It's those types of moments, or brotherly jabs, that welcomed the new set of wrestlers into the program right away despite having opposite preconceived notions.

"When you come in here, they treat you like family," Buchanan said. "They are there, they care about you. Not just the wrestler piece, but the guy who is off the mat."

Those notions extended to the coaching staff as well. They saw the same versions of Tom and Terry Brands that fans did. From Terry rocking in his coaching chair through matches to Tom's viral press conference clips, the intensity has always been evident to anyone who watches wrestling.

For the newcomers, that intensity translated into having dedicated people in their corners from the moment they arrived on campus.

"The picture they painted from the outside, it's not the same," Teemer said. "(Tom Brands) is a great guy, he's a loving guy. He will be hard on you, but that's just going to make you better."

Only in Iowa for a couple of months, Teemer said it feels like five years considering his relationship with the coaches. While Teemer says he was right about the level of intensity in the room, describing it as a high-pressure situation, he feels that will push him to a new heights as he chases a national title.

That's exactly why guys like Arnold and Drake Ayala committed to Iowa and the Brands brothers to begin with, and why you see Ayala's younger brother Dru following him along. In the recruiting process, they found a program and coaches that they felt would create an environment that would push them to compete for titles while having a crew in their corner.

Behind that, this is a team that says it is united behind one goal: chasing individual national titles.

There are no cliques, Arnold said. It doesn't matter that only Michael Caliendo returns to the lineup at his previous weight, Tom Brands said, since new roles could remove any staleness the team might have had. There are no new guys or wrestlers for hire, Ayala said.

Just a family.

"Once they come in, they're a part of our family," Ayala said. "We're a close group of guys. It's like a family around here."

That's why Tom Brands smirks when asked about culture. While outside perceptions are one thing, feelings within the room are as strong as they have been.

"You ask about culture, holy mackerel, I've sat up here (at media day) and talked about how much I love it," Brands said. "So it must be pretty good."

Eli McKown covers high school sports and wrestling for the Des Moines Register. Contact him atEmckown@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @EMcKown23.

It's Election Day!

After months and months of campaigning, voters will select the candidates they want to represent them in federal, state and local government.

Tens of thousands of Iowans already have voted early. For those who are going to the polls on Election Day, here's what you should know.

Learn more:Your Iowa Voter Guide 2024

When are polls open on Election Day in Iowa?

Polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you're in line when polls close, you may still cast a ballot.

Where do I vote in Iowa for the 2024 election?

To find your polling place, visit the Iowa Secretary of State’s website at https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx. There, you can find your precinct number and voting location.

What should I bring with me to vote?

Registered voters must have their identification when they go to the polls. You may present a driver’s license, a non-operator ID, a U.S. passport, a military ID, a veteran’s ID, a tribal ID or an Iowa voter identification card.

I'm not registered. Can I still vote?

Yes. You can register at your polling place on Election Day. Find out if you're registered to vote on the Iowa Secretary of State website.

If you're not registered, bring an ID and proof of residency, such as a lease, utility bill, paycheck or property tax bill.

I voted early. How can I be sure my vote is counted?

Absentee and early voters can track their ballots on the Iowa Secretary of State's website. If you haven't yet mailed in your absentee ballot, you can hand-deliver it to your county auditor's office by 8 p.m.

How do I know who's on my ballot?

Once you've found your precinct and voting location, your county auditor should have corresponding sample ballots on their website.

You also can find comprehensive coverage of the federal, state and local elections at www.desmoinesregister.com/news/elections/voter-guide/.

Where can I see results of the 2024 election in Iowa?

The Des Moines Register will have dozens of journalists and photographers covering the election and providing real-time results tonight. Check desmoinesregister.com for frequent updates and download the app to get alerted of major developments.

The Iowa Secretary of State's website will provide continuously updated results for state and federal elections. Results of county elections can be found on many county auditors' websites.

I had an issue voting. Where should I go?

Des Moines Register investigative reporters Tyler Jett and Lee Rood are keeping an eye out Nov. 5 for any voting problems. Reach out to Jett from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at tjett@registermedia.com, (515) 284-8215, or on X: @LetsJett. He also accepts encrypted messages at tjett@proton.me.

Or contact Rood from 3-11 p.m. at lrood@registermedia.com, (515) 284-8549, on X: @leerood, or on Facebook, at Facebook.com/readerswatchdog.

Be sure to include your name and contact information so they can get back to you.

The Iowa Secretary of State's Office also has an election security tip line on its website, or call 1-888-SOS-VOTE.

Your subscription makes work like this possible. Subscribe today at DesMoinesRegister.com/Deal.

This story was updated to add a video.

Des Moines, IA (November 4, 2024) – A hit-and-run personal injury accident occurred on Sunday at the intersection of 6th Street and Sheridan Avenue, prompting a response from local law enforcement and emergency services. Reports indicate that the incident involved a vehicle colliding with pedestrians, leading to injuries.

Details surrounding the accident remain limited, but it is believed that the driver fled the scene immediately after the collision. Emergency responders arrived promptly to assist the injured parties and provide medical care. The extent of the injuries sustained in the accident has not been disclosed, and authorities are actively investigating the incident to gather more information and identify the suspect.

Our thoughts are with those who were injured in this unfortunate event, and we hope for their swift recovery.

Hit and Run Accidents in Iowa

Hit-and-run accidents are a serious concern in Iowa, often leaving victims in vulnerable positions without the necessary support after a collision. These incidents can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges for those involved. According to recent reports, hit-and-run accidents have been on the rise, highlighting the need for increased awareness and safety measures.

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may face a variety of challenges, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and emotional distress. It is crucial for individuals involved in such incidents to understand their rights and the importance of seeking legal counsel. Consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can provide essential guidance in navigating the complexities of the legal system and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their next steps. It is essential for those affected to document any available information about the incident, including details about the suspect vehicle and any witnesses present. This information can be critical in assisting law enforcement with their investigation.

Local Accident Reports is your trusted resource for post-accident support. We’ve compiled essential information and resources for accident victims like you. Our comprehensive database provides key details and support options for those affected by accidents.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, it is important to act quickly to protect your rights. When you need guidance after an accident, turn to Local Accident Reports. We offer a centralized hub of critical information to help you navigate the aftermath of an accident. Contact us today to learn how we can assist in your recovery journey.

Des Moines, IA (November 4, 2024) – A personal injury accident occurred on Sunday at the intersection of 54th Street and Douglas Avenue, prompting a response from local emergency services. While specific details regarding the incident remain limited, initial reports indicate that the accident involved multiple vehicles, leading to injuries.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene to assess the situation and provide assistance to those involved. The extent of the injuries has not been disclosed, and it is currently unclear how many individuals were affected. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the cause and any potential contributing factors.

Our thoughts are with those who were injured in this incident, and we hope for their swift recovery.

Personal Injury Accidents in Iowa

Personal injury accidents are a significant concern in Iowa, often resulting in serious injuries that can impact victims and their families for years to come. Each year, numerous individuals find themselves involved in accidents that lead to physical, emotional, and financial challenges.

Victims of personal injury accidents should be aware of their rights and the importance of seeking legal counsel. Consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can provide essential guidance in navigating the complexities of the legal system and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.

Being involved in a personal injury accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their next steps. It is crucial for those affected to document any available information about the incident, including details about the vehicles involved and any witnesses present. This information can be vital in assisting law enforcement with their investigation and in pursuing any potential claims.

Local Accident Reports is your trusted resource for post-accident support. We’ve compiled essential information and resources for accident victims like you. Our comprehensive database provides key details and support options for those affected by accidents.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a personal injury accident, it is important to act quickly to protect your rights. When you need guidance after an accident, turn to Local Accident Reports. We offer a centralized hub of critical information to help you navigate the aftermath of an accident. Contact us today to learn how we can assist in your recovery journey.

Sporting their "In My Cancer Warrior Era," shirts, Kristin Ledvina and Lauren Hollatz got the trip of a lifetime, thanks to a team of nurse anesthetists.

CRNAs by day, Cancer Warriors by (day and) night

Ledvina and Hollatz are nurse anesthetists at Medical Center Anesthesiologists in Des Moines. Both are mothers, fighting their own battles with breast cancer.

Recently, Ledvina got news treatments had been unsuccessful, and that her cancer had spread.

"She's been a trooper through all of it," Hollatz said. "She just keeps her positive attitude through all of it. We're all just in awe of her positivity through everything."

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More:Takeaways from Taylor Swift's final U.S. Eras Tour show in Indianapolis

Both were diagnosed with breast cancer near the end of their 30s before most women start getting annual mammograms, Hollatz said. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recently recommended women start mammograms at age 40, instead of age 50.

"I feel like that's really important for people to be doing their breast exams because I know I wasn't doing them," Hollatz said.

Women under the age of 50 are the fastest-growing group of breast cancer patients.

How co-workers turned a joke into a bucket list moment for two nurses fighting breast cancer

While at brunch with co-workers, the two nurses went over bucket list ideas. The Taylor Swift Eras Tour was on that list.

It was mostly a joke, with Ledvina recalling that she told her friends she wasn't going to spend all that money. But a week later, Sara Mackerley, Dana Lowry and other co-workers had already started planning the trip for them.

Through fundraising at work, all Ledvina and Hollatz had to do was get on the plane. Tickets for the concert, airfare and even spending money were all covered.

So, the two danced all night at Swift's last Eras tour stop in Indianapolis.

"It [was] wild. Every little girl in that stadium knows every word, and it was just adorable," Hollatz said. "It was just a blast. It was nice to have a fun night out, kind of escaping from what's going on."

More:Caitlin Clark returns to the Eras Tour to see Taylor Swift for the second time this weekend

Ledvina said that she feels blessed to have the work family that she does and for this opportunity to cross one more thing off that bucket list.

Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR.