Good morning, Des Moines.

The Caitlin Clark Foundation partnered with Des Moines Public Schools to provide backpacks filled with school supplies and books to about 500 Hoover High School students during its annual giveaway (third year) that helped lessen back-to-school expenses.

Caring Hands Outreach Center in Altoona received $100,000 in state funding to build a community garden with 10 raised beds and stormwater irrigation, planned to open in fall 2027 at 602 Third St. SW.

The garden will boost fresh produce for the food pantry that serves over 9,000 people each month.

The ACLU of Iowa calls for more counselors and mental health support after a report found that school resource officers do little to boost student safety, while Waukee Police Chief Chad McCluskey said they help de-escalate conflicts and build trust with students.

Des Moines Christian School will open a new high school in 2027 and is seeking support for its $65 million project to build modern facilities for students.

Drake University has highlighted 19 famous alumni who found success in TV, law, sports and more; the list names figures like Steve Allen, Terry Branstad and Zach Johnson and shows the school’s long legacy of achievement.

The Iowa DNR reported 16 state beaches are not recommended for swimming this week due to high E.coli levels.

Local advisories affect spots like Blue Heron Lake at Raccoon River Park and Hickory Grove Park Beach, urging residents to avoid water contact.

Volunteers conducted the annual Point-in-Time Count on July 29 in Des Moines - collecting data from people experiencing homelessness to guide future funding, housing, and support services.

The 2025 compliance report shows that 97.4% of Iowa’s public water systems met EPA standards with 36 nitrate health violations, and experts noted that small systems at truck stops and campgrounds faced more challenges—efforts are underway to fix issues and keep tap water safe.

Earlier this week, unhoused residents faced extreme heat when temperatures peaked at 114°—cooling centers were too far for many to reach.

The public camping ban and scarce clean water worsened their struggle for relief in local encampments.

Oakridge Neighborhood is moving forward with a $15 million housing project near Oakridge Drive and Keo Way that will include 33 apartments and a 9,500 sqft wellness center — offering education, workforce programs, and services — with nearly $1.4 million in grants; completion is set for 2028.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

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

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.