Welcome to the Daily Umbrella Podcast for Friday, July 24. We bring you the biggest stories, a few lighter moments, and everything you need to know to head into the weekend. Let’s get started. …

Today's top local story focuses on an animal that is becoming a more common neighbor across Iowa: coyotes. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says coyote sightings are increasing throughout the state, prompting some cities, including Johnston, to revisit local ordinances and educate residents on how to respond. Areas like Gray's Lake in Des Moines provide ideal habitat, but wildlife experts say there is no need to panic. In most cases, coyotes are far more afraid of people than people are of them. The advice remains simple: never feed them, keep pets supervised, and make plenty of noise if you encounter one. …

Also making headlines, a fo ...