Good morning, Des Moines.

The Des Moines Police Department said 14-year-old Zayden was found safe after he and 17-year-old Alexis were last seen on July 12th in the 900 block of SW Porter Avenue — police are still searching for Alexis.

Des Moines Police said on July 21 that 14-year-old Zayden was found safe after a July 15 call for help to locate missing juveniles, but they are still searching for 17-year-old Alexis — who was last seen in blue medical-style scrubs on the 900 block of Southwest Porter Avenue.

Three retired journalists compared the Iowa and Minnesota state fairs during separate visits in 2024.

They found the Des Moines fair impressed with its butter sculptures and pork chops on a stick—while Minnesota showcased unique crop art and a wide range of ethnic foods.

Fair officials announced in June that this year's Iowa State Fair butter sculptures will include the traditional butter cow plus characters from Toy Story to honor the fair's long history since 1911.

A viral social media claim about a new sculpture inspired by a kiss cam moment was dismissed and will not be displayed.

Record-breaking rainfall caused street closures on George Flagg Parkway yesterday when a section from Park Avenue to 30th Street was blocked and the flood gate at Fleur Drive remained closed—drivers were advised to use Fleur Drive to navigate around the closures—and the morning commute saw only light drizzle with calm road conditions.

After heavy rains lowered nitrate levels in local rivers, CIWW is easing residential lawn watering restrictions today—homeowners with even-numbered addresses may water on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday while those with odd-numbered addresses may water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday—and no watering is allowed on Monday.

West Des Moines is searching for a new partner to handle its cat rescue operations after AHeinz57’s contract ended on June 30.

Mayor Russ Trimble said the city will request proposals to rehome adoptable cats while former partner Britt Gagne—director of Furry Friends Pet Rescue—criticized how stray cats are managed.

Five teenagers from Cedar Falls are set to join thousands of cyclists at RAGBRAI this week as part of Cedar Valley Youth Cycling, a new offshoot of the Des Moines-based Dream Team that mentors local youth through long rides.

They began indoor training in March and will ride over 400 miles during the seven-day event plus participate in a planned Family Night for support.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Burger & Beer Deal at Exile Brewing

11 AM - 9 PM — Exile Brewing Company — $12 — Savor a Smash Burger with Fries and a Pint for just $12 every Wednesday.

Wild on Wheels

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Science Center of Iowa — Free entry — Enjoy live music, games, and food trucks at the kickoff of the Summer Block Party!

Steve Berry: 1974 Music Retrospective

9 p.m. — Noce — Ticket prices vary — Experience a nostalgic journey through the biggest hits of 1974 featuring iconic artists like Elton John and ABBA.

Little Explorers Program

10-11 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Discover and play with activities designed to build early literacy skills in children ages 0-5.

Summer Music Series: Paul Little at Exile Brewing

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — All-day happy hour with $4.50 pints — Experience the perfect Sunday with live music and patio vibes.

I Spy: Mario

12 AM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Search for your favorite Mario characters and claim a prize upon completion.

Baby Rhyme Time

10:00 – 10:30 AM — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — A delightful gathering for infants and toddlers featuring engaging rhymes and songs.

The SpongeBob Musical

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Des Moines Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Dive into the vibrant underwater world where SpongeBob and friends unite to save Bikini Bottom from disaster.

Wiggles and Giggles Storytime

9:15-9:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy movement, music, and rhyming with fun watermelon games and crafts.

The Hors D’oeuvres Live at Annie’s Irish Pub

8-11 p.m. — Annie's Irish Pub — Cost TBD — Enjoy an evening filled with live music from The Hors D’oeuvres.