Good morning, West Des Moines.

Furry Friends Refuge moved all of its animals before the fireworks display because the loud noise and shaking troubled the animals+ debris later scattered on the property and slowed staff clean-up.

Shelter officials invited city leaders to inspect the damage, but only a city employee noted poor planning+ leaving concerns about future displays.

Small businesses in West Des Moines are trying to compete with Amazon Prime Day, which runs from July 8 to 11 as big retailers like Walmart, Target and TikTok also offer major deals.

Local shop owners say rising tariffs add extra costs — they rely on in-person service and unique experiences to attract local shoppers.

Iowa State Fair officials released over 60 new food items that will be available one month from now, including options like Bacon Chicken Ranch Eggroll and Maple Bacon Bourbon Grilled Cheese + fair organizers also announced new activities such as the Variety Star Playground and Highland Cattle Show.

Central Iowa pest control expert Robert Hughes said mosquito activity increased by 20% this summer due to damp conditions and consecutive light winters—his team is using both a spray to mist mosquito resting sites and a non-spray bucket treatment with fungus spores while advising residents to remove standing water from gutters, tires and birdbaths.

Iowa’s Department of Natural Resources is asking residents to help with its wild turkey survey, which is underway in July and August to track nesting rates and population trends.

Jim Coffey, a forest wildlife biologist, said participants record the number of adult hens and their offspring with the date and county on the agency website—this data will guide officials in understanding long-term changes.

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.

Jazz in July: Night #2

5:30-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Experience live jazz performances featuring local and traveling musicians in a vibrant summer setting.

Mindfulness Meditation for Veterans and Community

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Explore the benefits of mindfulness meditation with expert guidance and practice.

Glowforge Plus Training

3-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Library card required — Master the Glowforge Plus Laser Engraver and become fully qualified to use it independently.

NBDA Doula Birth Doula Training

8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Mainframe Studios — Registration required — Top-rated training for Black and BIPOC doulas addressing maternal health issues.

Monthly Critique Group Workshop

10 AM — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Engage in deep discussions while sharing your poetry for constructive feedback.