Good morning, West Des Moines.

Iowa leaders mourn Maj.

Brad Hovey, an Iowa native and Air Force pilot killed in a B-52 test flight crash on Monday in California, as Gov. Kim Reynolds and Senate Leader Janice Weiner paid tribute to his service + the Air Force launched a six-month investigation into the crash.

A B-52 bomber crashed after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base on Monday, killing eight—including Iowa native Maj.

Brad Hovey, 35, of the 419th Flight Test Squadron— while officials said the aircraft was supporting a radar modernization program and the probe may last six months.

Communities across central Iowa will light up the sky in the coming weeks with fireworks displays; one event in West Des Moines at Jordan Creek Town Center on July 4 joins other shows like Yankee Doodle Pops on July 3 and Ankeny SummerFest on July 12.

State auditor Rob Sand's report reveals Iowa spent about $258.7 million in fiscal year 2026 on private school tuition & that most ESA voucher users were already expected to attend nonpublic schools.

The ESA program removed income limits this fiscal year, prompting debate over its cost.

Recent rains have raised nitrate levels in local waterways as the Central Iowa Water Works facility has run 163 days in 2026.

Experts at Iowa State University’s Nutrient Research Center say fertilizer and manure runoff flushes nitrates into streams & rivers, though water meets EPA standards today.

A 911 outage on Monday disrupted emergency calls in West Des Moines and nearby areas from about 4:15 p.m. until service was restored around 5:55 p.m. Officials said backup plans (including non-emergency lines) allowed call access while providers and DHS review the incident.

Make-A-Wish Iowa granted a West Des Moines teen his UTV wish on Wednesday, Jun.

17 at the Warners' Stellian Appliances parking lot, letting him try outdoor adventures with his siblings. Zander Smith, who suffers from tumors, is one of 30 kids receiving wishes this month to help boost strength and hope.

Cajun Fest Boil & Brew 2026

12-8 p.m. — The Meridian - Events & Catering — $55+ — Celebrate Mardi Gras in the Midwest with all-you-can-eat Cajun cuisine and live entertainment.

Secret Series Skate Contest

2-6 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 entry fee — A contest series inviting skaters of all ages and skills to showcase their talent at unique obstacles.

Rooftop Yoga

7:30-8:30 p.m. — The Shop DSM - Event Center — Free entry — Enjoy a beginner-friendly yoga class with a refreshing rooftop view.

World Cup England vs Ghana Watch Party

3-5 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Cheer on England while enjoying exclusive drink specials and great company.

World Cup Watch Party: Mexico vs. Czechia

8-10 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Experience the excitement of a World Cup clash with fellow fans and enjoy official drinks.

IAWIA Annual Bike Tour

1-5 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — Free participation — Experience the vibrant developments of downtown Des Moines on two wheels, followed by a happy hour.

World Cup England v Panama Watch Party

4-6 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Cheer for England with drink specials and fellow fans during the match.

Des Moines Arts Festival — Relic Modern

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Western Gateway Park — Free entry — Experience breathtaking art and community spirit at an award-winning urban gallery festival.

Rooftop Yoga Session

7:30-8:30 p.m. — The Shop DSM - Event Center — Cost info not provided — Unwind and find your zen with a beginner-friendly yoga class in a beautiful rooftop setting.

Blue Light Jazz at Surety Hotel

5-12 a.m. — Surety Hotel Lobby Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy stiff drinks and smooth jazz vibes in a mid-week happy hour setting.