Good morning, West Des Moines.

Iowa native astronaut Peggy Whitson — on her fifth visit — leads a three-member crew from India, Hungary and Poland on a two-week research mission at the International Space Station.

Her team is running about 60 experiments — including studies on cancer and muscle function — and will undock in about a week before returning to Earth.

Jester Park in Granger sits on 1,600 acres near Saylorville Lake and offers a range of activities—campgrounds, trails, a Nature Center, a recreation center with archery and bouldering, an equestrian center with riding programs, and a golf course.

Prairie Stomp, the park’s summer concert series, kicked off last week and will hold events on July 17 and August 7 from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Central Iowa Water Works advanced water restrictions to Stage 3 after nitrate levels in the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers neared record highs—residents and business customers must disable all automatic lawn watering systems and stop extra water use within 48 hours or risk having their water service terminated.

I Spy: Independence Day

All day — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Search for Independence Day pictures in the Youth area to win a prize!

Summer Music Series: Riley Jane

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with a refreshing cold beer.

Summer Skate Day Camp

9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — Lauridsen Skatepark — $185.00 — A week of fun and skill-building in the art of skateboarding at Skate DSM's camp!

Jazz in July Night 1

5:30-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Experience vibrant jazz performances from local talents in a festive summer atmosphere.

Mindfulness Meditation Workshop for Veterans

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free — Experience a guided mindfulness meditation session designed for veterans and those dealing with high-stress environments.

Insects Exploration with Polk County Conservation

1-2 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Explore the fascinating world of bugs with live insects and a knowledgeable naturalist.

Writers' Workshop for Short Works

10-11 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration required — Engage in lively discussions as you read and share snippets of your writing.

Stone Circle Brass Quintet: Nothin’ but the Classics

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Experience a lively performance featuring a diverse repertoire from talented local musicians.

Iowa Reptile Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines — VIP & General Admission at the door — Explore thousands of reptiles, amphibians, and supplies with local breeders.

I Spy: Des Moines Landmarks

All day — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Explore iconic Des Moines landmarks through a fun scavenger hunt in the Youth area.