Good morning, Des Moines.

Iowa DNR reported that nine state beaches are not recommended for swimming after tests between June 16th and June 18th detected high E. coli levels; the list includes Backbone, Beeds Lake, Black Hawk, Blue Lake, Bobwhite, Emerson Bay, Nine Eagles, North Twin Lake West and Pine Lake South. The department also noted that Lake Keomah Beach is not monitored as it undergoes renovations until spring 2026.

The lawn watering ban has been in effect since June 12 and cut water demand by over 30% to help Central Iowa Water Works meet nitrate standards for 600,000 residents.

Over the next decade, the utility will increase treatment capacity by 25% with upgrades at Saylorville and new aquifer storage wells — efforts intended to keep water safe amid rising demand.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach warned Iowans to be alert to hazardous plants and animals this summer while spending time outdoors, advising the use of insect repellent for chiggers and caution around poison ivy, wasps and coyotes—tips meant to help prevent bites, stings and skin irritation.

Polk County’s Extreme Temperature Plan went into effect Friday morning and will run through Sunday night to help residents stay cool.

Shelters, community centers, malls, and libraries are serving as cooling centers—Des Moines Area Regional Transit is providing free bus rides to these spots as the heat intensifies.

Today at the State Capitol, the Iowa March for Life will begin with educational displays in the rotunda at noon and a rally at 1 p.m.—featuring speakers such as the new National Right to Life leader and Doctor Pat Castle.

Pulse Life Advocates executive director Maggie DeWitte said the event started three years ago after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade, and the march will follow a route over the Iowa Judicial building and back with about 1,000 expected participants.

Central Iowa Water Works Executive Director Tami Madsen gave a tour of the Saylorville Water Treatment Plant on June 20 in Des Moines—she explained how reverse osmosis technology works at the 10 million-gallon-day facility.

Senior guard Brendan Hausen joined Iowa after transferring from Villanova and Kansas State for his reliable 3-point shooting, and he said coach McCollum’s honest feedback and high expectations motivated his decision—he hopes to help the newly assembled team achieve success.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!

Summer Music Series: Jonas Magram at Exile Brewing

5:00–7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer at the Summer Music Series.

Overcoming Writer's Block Workshop

7-9 p.m. — Smokey Row Coffee — $30 — Explore how to navigate writer's block and unlock your creativity in this intensive workshop.

MY PAINTING ERA CAMP! Day 1: 1989

9 a.m.–12 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Cost varies — Create a unique painting with friends and local artists' guidance.

Avey Grouws Band Performance

6-10 p.m. — Gray's Station — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of live music, local food trucks, and summer vibes in Downtown Des Moines.

Disney Trivia Night at Exile Brewing

6-8 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints during happy hour — Test your Disney knowledge every Thursday evening with Trophy Husband Trivia.

Scott Davis Trio Performance

7 PM — The Cave DSM — Cost info not available — Enjoy an evening of captivating music from the talented Scott Davis Trio.

Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show

6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown — $67.95+ — Experience an interactive comedy murder mystery while enjoying a delightful dinner.

Summer Music Series: David Watson

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer during the Summer Music Series.

Historic Corn Plot Dinner

6:00-8:30 p.m. — The Wallace Centers of Iowa — Ticket required — Savor a special meal featuring corn from the on-site Henry A. Wallace Historic Corn Plot.

Hoyt Sherman Art Classes

5:30-7 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Registration required — Engage in creative acrylic art adventures tailored for ages 7-14.