Welcome to the Friday mailbag where you will find some of the comments, questions and ideas sent recently by readers of this newsletter or our publications. They are edited for space and clarity.

“Good morning, Shane. One paragraph addressed something I find perplexing: dressing appropriately (Boomers, Nov. 26, 2024). For the majority of my professional career, I was a suit-and-tie guy. Then came business casual and employees always pushing for blue jean days. I see these moves as dumbing down my fellow Americans’ sense of proper dress. A few weeks back, my wife and I celebrated our wedding anniversary at one of Des Moines’ high-end restaurants. I’ll never understand how people can walk into a place like this wearing baseball caps and very casual clothing.” - Len

Keep in mind that the restaurants could require a dress code, but most choose not to. - Shane

“Hey, Shane. I greatly appreciated your Daily Umbrella column this morning (Boomers, Nov. 26, 2024). I generally agree with your observations of what has been lost in our society’s character with the exception of some very admirable young individuals. Speaking as another old guy straddling Boomer and GenX labels, I can only blame our generation. I remember the Great Generation feeling the same way about the Boomers when I was a child. Back then, they were called ‘hippies.’ While the Boomers learned to be hard-working and responsible, they frequently failed to impart these values on their children. And one more thing, blaming ‘the culture’ is a cop out. If nothing else, the culture provides ample opportunities to demonstrate bad examples and the associated consequences. Can you tell that you hit a nerve? Thanks for your work.” - Wayne

I believe that those who are in the middle have interesting perspectives, living with members of so many different generations. And, I truly believe we all have much more in common with each other than many want to admit. - Shane

“Shane, I loved reading about Pong, and I do remember that game (Pong, Dec. 2, 2024). It was great fun for my sister and me. I am older than you, so I have to say some of my favorites were Etch a Sketch, Lincoln logs and I loved our Race Car Track set. Those things were hours of fun for me. Thank you for your column. You brought back fun memories.” - Helen

I also loved those slot racing sets — when they worked. - Shane

“Shane, when I was in my pre-teens, I got a new football and kicking tee (Pong, Dec. 2, 2024). In front of our house was an evergreen tree that was the exact height of a goalpost crossbar. I was a pro football place-kicker fan and was out there every day kicking imaginary game-winning field goals. For many years, the record field goal kick was 63 yards, which was held by a guy with half a foot. He kicked straight on, not soccer-style. Now, kickers are kicking 65-plus yards regularly. Amazing.” - James

Long live Tom Dempsey! – Shane

Have a fantastic Friday, and thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.thedailyumbrella.com

See Shane Goodman's past columns here.

BUSINESS FEATURE
More than a show

By Gunner Onkst

Catching the latest flick at the movie theater has been a pastime for people of all ages, but with the advent of streaming services and the growing number of options for watching movies at home, many opt for a “movie night” while curled up on the couch. This holiday season may have people flocking to theaters for big releases such as “Moana 2,” “Wicked” and “Gladiator II,” but many will be looking for more than just a good movie. These days, theaters are increasingly offering more than just the show; they are offering an experience.

Compass Group is the world's largest food service company. They are moving into Sodexho territory in Des Moines — taking over operations at The Principal Company and Wells Fargo Arena for starts.

Tune in Saturday at 10 a.m. on KFMG to hear Kitchen Insider talk with Compass Group's Desiree Peerman, Manager of their Great Lakes operations in the US. Those include the Iowa Great Lakes.

Finding a home in Ankeny
Mulbrook enjoys the amenities and appreciates the schools.

By Lindsey Giardino

Nikki Mulbrook’s journey to Ankeny was a bit unexpected.

Growing up in the Waukee area, she originally saw herself living nearby, especially since her job was in Clive. Ankeny wasn’t initially on her radar as a place to settle down and raise a family. But in 2018, that all changed when she came across a charming home in Uptown. The appeal of that home and the welcoming vibe of the community drew her in, and she’s been happily living in Ankeny ever since.

Over the years, Mulbrook’s love for Ankeny has only grown. Although her first home was special, life’s twists and turns have led her to the north side of town, where she currently rents. Mulbrook hopes to purchase another home in the near future.  ...

These celebrities were born on this date: JoBeth Williams, Peter Buck, Judd Apatow, Lindsay Price, Rick Buckler, Tish Hinojosa, Bill Lloyd, Steven Wright, David Lovering, Ben Watt, Janine Turner, Ulf “Buddha” Ekberg, Johnny Manziel, Giannis Antetokounmpo

SUBMIT: Send your birthday greetings and congratulatory notes to: tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

The answer to the last riddle:  What do you call a meme that makes you happy? DOPA-MEME!

Today's riddle: Why did Santa plant three gardens?

Have a guess? Email tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

To advertise in the Daily Umbrella or Ankeny, Altoona or Bondurant  Living magazines, contact:

Angela Ossian
Account Executive
Office: 515-953-4822 ext. 307
Mobile: 515-979-5585
angela@iowalivingmagazines.com

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