Good morning, Des Moines.

Monica Perme rides RAGBRAI in Grundy Center, honoring her late son Jack, who died on July 11 after battling ataxia.

She met fellow rider Bryce Hutcheson (whose wife noted their shared condition brought comfort) and carries Jack’s mission forward.

Iowa Economic Development Board awarded loans to three startups in Ames and Coralville + Narrate AR got $100K for an AI platform for children, Soil Serdem received $100K for geospatial software for farming, and Juggernaut Life Sciences got $50K for a laser device to treat early cancers.

The Iowa Drought Monitor report shows that about 50% of the state is experiencing drought or dry conditions—22% with abnormal dryness and 14% in moderate drought—as data from 8 a.m. July 21 indicate a rise from earlier readings.

Des Moines Parks and Recreation is drawing water from Gray's Lake to water trees and park flower beds under a Stage 2 outdoor water use plan through the end of October — a process that costs only about $40 in extra materials, explained Park Superintendent Julie Hempel.

A Polk County judge will rule early next week on Libertarian candidate Marco Battaglia’s petition for using his preferred name on the ballot (he filed the petition after a GOP-led effort challenged his entry).

Battaglia said he might run as a nonparty candidate or seek the Libertarian nomination if excluded.

The Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo is underway today at the Iowa Events Center, where hundreds of vendors offer the latest hunting gear and visitors can join calling competitions and seminars.

Organized by Delta Waterfowl, the event runs through Sunday.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

Prehistoric Playtime

1-3 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Dive into a Jurassic-themed adventure with hands-on activities and fun for young explorers.

GCYAA at the Iowa Cubs

6:08–7:08 p.m. — Principal Park — Cost varies — Enjoy an exciting baseball game with the Iowa Cubs and support local youth sports.

Annabelle Dinda Concert

7:00 – 11:30 p.m. — Wooly's — Tickets start at $68 — Experience the unforgettable live performance of Annabelle Dinda in Des Moines.

CORNELIO VEGA Y SU DINASTIA & MORE

8-11 p.m. — Val Air Ballroom — Tickets available — A vibrant night of regional music featuring Cornelio Vega and his Dinastia along with exciting performances.