Good morning, Des Moines.

Bailing Out Benji, an Iowa nonprofit, released a study that analyzed five years of data on dog breeders and found that more than half of the breeders, brokers, and pet store suppliers have had state or federal violations — with 41% of licensed breeders nationally and 33% of Iowa facilities cited — the study sets a benchmark for future regulatory efforts.

A 60-year-old Des Moines man was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly doused a woman on a bicycle — and a home — with gasoline, and he now faces charges of first-degree arson and assault.

Drake Municipal Observatory has hosted a summer lecture series for over 100 years but now has shifted this summer's start time from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Waveland Golf Course+ traffic conflicts with golfers have raised concerns about the series' future.

After lawmakers passed a law during the 2025 legislative session to allow fireworks at set times on July 4, police said calls dropped from 464 last year to 132 this year.

Sgt. Paul Parizek noted the department saw fewer vandalism reports in parks — a sign that families kept enjoying local amenities — even though many residents remain unhappy with the fireworks.

State officials attended Sweet Corn Day at the Iowa State Capitol on July 8th—Gov. Kim Reynolds talked with radio host Bob Quinn while attendees sampled fresh Iowa sweet corn.

Police Chief Chad McCluskey and Fire Chief Clint Robinson led a tour of the new public safety building in Waukee on July 1, 2025+ where they showed features like a shared kitchen and training simulation room.

The chiefs also explained the design includes an evidence processing area+ and plans for future improvements.

State officials are considering hiring a private company to provide health care services in Iowa prisons due to staffing shortages — no final decisions have been made and union leaders warned employees may face lower wages and job uncertainty if the plan moves forward.

Iowa House Majority Leader Matt Windschitl announced his campaign for the U.S. House in Iowa's 4th District, which covers the western border and parts of north central and northwestern Iowa.

He said his top priorities are defending the Second Amendment—securing the border, protecting the unborn, cutting taxes and holding Washington responsible.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Wiggles and Giggles

9:15-9:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy a lively storytime filled with movement, music, and rhymes for preschoolers.

Bad Decisions Band Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy a night of great live music at this local favorite pub.

Stone Circle Brass Quintet: Nothin’ but the Classics

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Experience a lively performance by the talented Stone Circle Brass Quintet showcasing a diverse repertoire.

Iowa Reptile Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines — Tickets at the door — Connect with local breeders and explore thousands of reptiles and supplies.

3D Printer Training Class

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration required — Master the Bambu X-1 and Formlabs Form 3 3D printers in this informative workshop.

Jazz in July: Night #2

5:30-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Enjoy a summer evening of jazz featuring the CJC Youth Combo and the Christian Ertl Quartet.

Mindfulness Meditation for Veterans

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Discover the benefits of mindfulness meditation in a supportive environment led by a certified instructor.

Drop-In Tech Help

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free help — Get assistance with your devices from knowledgeable staff at the library.

Yubu Band Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of music with the Yubu Band at your favorite local pub.

Camp Read S'more Movie Crafternoon

2-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy crafting while watching the spooky fun of Addams Family Values in a community setting.