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May 30 - June 5, 2025

 
 
Another nice mess
 

“Well, here’s another nice mess you have gotten me into.”

That’s the phrase Oliver Hardy so famously delivered to Stan Laurel in many of the duo’s short movies during the early era of film — although many of you will swear the words are “another FINE mess.” They aren’t, although Laurel and Hardy did have a 29-minute film with that title in 1930.

Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy made more than 100 films together from 1921 to 1950, and I saw many of them on the screen of my hometown theater as a kid. The movie house owners must have purchased copies of the films, as they played them every summer on weekday afternoons. This gave us kids something to do for a low price (a free admission coupon ran in our local paper), and the theater made a few coins on concessions. Best of all, we all learned about the comic duo of Laurel and Hardy.

Some of you may recall how Stan Laurel was a slender man, and Oliver Hardy was… not. That contrast in size was part of what made their schtick work, and they built the model for others to follow.

Abbott and Costello fit the part. So did the Skipper and Gilligan. David Spade and Chris Farley nearly mastered it. Don't forget Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny Devito; Timon and Pumba; Jake and Elwood. Even R2-D2 and C-3PO made it work.

This big person/little person theme seemed to only be reserved for men, though. Even if you could name a few plus-sized/small-sized female comic duos, I am not pointing out that contrast here. Oliver Hardy was fine with being called husky. Rosie O’Donnell? Not so much. OK, I won’t mention another one.

I will share a few more of the contrasting male duos, though, and they don’t all include one chubby guy. Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble were both on the heavy side. Felix and Oscar had many unique contrasts other than weight. So did Tom and Jerry.

But, if we are being honest, few nailed it like Laurel and Hardy. And they did so in some films that were silent and all films that were black and white — without sexual innuendos, vulgar language or a staff of professional writers to develop punch lines. Their movies were certainly not from my era, but I enjoyed them all the same. I still do. Watching Laurel and Hardy movies at the theater kept my friends and me out of trouble for at least a few afternoon hours. Or, as you might say, it was another nice mess they kept us from getting into.

Have a great week, and thanks for reading.

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

 
 
Check presented to Historical Society
 

On May 13, Polk County Supervisor Jill Altringer presented a check to Roxana Currie (president), Rose Taylor (treasurer) and Rich Taylor (board member) of the Big Creek Historical Society for $3,000. The check will go toward the repair of the outside staircase to the Big Creek Historical Museum.

 

Garage sale, free will donations, and bake sale

The Sheldahl United Methodist Church, 609 6th St., Sheldahl, will host its garage sale and bake sale on Saturday, June 7, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free coffee and bottled water. Visit Slater Main Street from 7:30-11:30 a.m. for the Vendor Market and Junk in the Trunk.

 

Music Through the Years

Musician Dennis Kain will present a brief history of music at the Big Creek Schoolhouse Museum, 116 S. 3rd St., Polk City, on Thursday, June 5, at 6:30 p.m.

Pianos and math, the Industrial Revolution and mass production, Polk City’s Bandstand and the Boys Band: Kain, a musician and collector of things musical, will connect the dots in a fast-paced rendition of how we got from there to here.

 
 

Upcoming events

Polk City Farmers Market, Thursdays, through June 27, 4:30-8 p.m., Town Square. The weekly Farmers Market brings local produce, handmade goods, food trucks and live music to the heart of Polk City. Come stroll the square, meet vendors and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming vibe each Thursday evening.

Citywide Garage Sale, June 6-7. Get ready to hunt for treasures or clean out your garage. This community-wide sale is a great way to recycle, reuse and connect with neighbors.

Summer Kick-Off with Polk City Police, Friday, June 6, 6-8 p.m., location TBA. Join the Polk City Police Officers Association for a family-friendly evening to welcome summer with fun activities and community spirit.

Polk City Classic Golf Tournament, Thursday, June 27, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spend the day on the greens supporting local efforts while enjoying camaraderie and competition.

Four Seasons Festival, June 28-29, at the Town Square. Cap off the season with Polk City's biggest celebration, featuring live entertainment, food, kids activities and more.

 

Vacation Bible School Road Trip

Come join Polk City United Methodist Church, 1421 W. Broadway St., from Sunday, June 22, to Wednesday, June 25, 6-8 p.m., for a week with fun, games, and learning about God. With our road trip theme, we will be creating some cars to race on our final night and have a surprise food truck come and visit. Our mission focus this year is to collect clothes for area shelters that are low on their supplies. To register, go to https://polkcityumc.breezechms.com/form/4b64f5605735 or go to the church's website.

 

LifeServe Blood Drive

Saturday, July 26, 9 a.m. to noon
Parking lot corner of West Broadway Street and S. Fourth Street, Polk City
Sponsored by Polk City Eastern Star. Sign up at LifeServe’s website: https://www.lifeservebloodcenter.org or by calling LifeServe at 1-800-287-4903 

 

Coming up at the Polk City Community Library

1500 W. Broadway   |   515-984-6119   |   polkcitylibrary.org

  • Geri-Fit Strength Training Workouts: Monday, June 2, 9-10 a.m.
  • Chair Yoga: Tuesday, June 3, 9-9:45 a.m.
  • Women’s Coffee: Wednesday, June 4, 10 a.m. to noon
  • Wednesday Book Club: Wednesday, June 4, 7-8 p.m. “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
  • Sit and Stitch: Thursday, June 5, 6-8 p.m.
  • Men’s Coffee: Friday, June 6, 10 a.m. to noon
 
 

Polk County Conservation events

Visit www.polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/events for information about upcoming programs offered by Polk County Conservation and for registration links.

  • Edible Outdoors, Tuesday, June 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Ever wonder what those pesky weeds in your yard are good for? Come take a walk on the wild edibles side. You’ll learn to identify the common, edible plants around you and get a few new recipes to try at home. We will prepare and sample a variety of edible plants so come with a sense of adventure. Register by June 8 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDMyMDA=.
  • Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Pollination Celebration, Wednesday, June 11, 1-2 p.m., Easter Lake Park, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. A third of our global food supply depends on pollinators. Do you know what they are and the threats they face? This program will describe how pollination works and the actions you can take to help pollinators in your own yard. Looking for an excuse to get out of the house, make some new friends, and learn about the exciting world of nature? Then join in. No registration required.
  • Toddler Tales, Friday, June 13, 10-10:30 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m., Easter Lake Park, Athene North Shore Event Building, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Let your imagination run wild with this nature-themed story time. Hear a story followed by the naturalist’s choice of an activity such as an animal encounter, puppets or a craft. The theme is dragonflies.
  • Sunset Paddle at Easter Lake, Friday, June 13, 7:30-9 p.m., Easter Lake Park, Athene North Shore Event Building, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Enjoy a relaxing evening on the lake. Learn the basics of kayaking before hitting the water to explore Easter Lake and watch the sunset on the water. All equipment will be provided. Meet outside of the Easter Lake Event Center. Bring a water and dress in clothes and sturdy shoes you do not mind getting wet. Registration required by the day before event at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2Nzg5Mjg=.
  • Kayak Basics, Saturday, June 14, 1-3 p.m., Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Learn the basics of kayaking. Learn about gear, technique and safety before hitting the water to practice your skills. All equipment provided. Dress to get wet, wear sturdy water shoes, and bring a towel. Registration required by June 11 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDMyODU=.
  • Turtles and Snakes: Cold-Blooded Truths, Sunday, June 15, 2-3 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Explore the world of reptiles in this program focused on snakes and turtles found in Iowa. Learn about common myths and what to do if you happen to encounter these animals in the wild. Discover where you're most likely to spot them — and, best of all, get the chance to meet some live reptile ambassador animals up close.
  • Hike for Health at Fort Des Moines Park, Monday, June 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Fort Des Moines Park, 7200 S.E. Fifth St., Des Moines. Why walk the mall when you can enjoy the great outdoors? Hike along with this friendly group of nature lovers who walk the trails each month for exercise and fun. Enjoy the camaraderie and explore some new trails. Registration required by June 15 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDMzMDc=.
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Food Truck Fridays
May through June, 5:30-8 p.m.
Campbell Park, 12385 Woodlands Parkway, Clive
Satisfy your food cravings with the best of street eats and local live music — a can’t-miss community event. Bring the family to Campbell Park in Clive for food, fun and free live music. Campbell Park is now a cashless facility. Payment methods for beverage purchases at Campbell Park concession stand: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Apple Pay, Google Pay. Most food trucks still accept cash and cards. For details, visit www.cityofclive.com/parkandrecreation/programs_and_events/food_truck_fridays/index.php

  • Friday, May 30: Monkey 4
  • Friday, June 6: Dick Danger Band
  • Friday, June 13: Gladys Lite (Sons of Gladys Kravitz Trio)
  • Friday, Sept. 5: Brian Herrin Trio
  • Friday, Sept. 12: The Sheet

Waukee Palooza
Saturday, June 7, 4-10 p.m.
Hy-Vee, 1005 Hickman Road, Waukee
The Rotary Club of Waukee is hosting the 7th Annual Waukee Palooza, in partnership with Hy-Vee. An estimated 2,000 people attend this family-friendly, dog-friendly music festival each year. It is free to attend the event. The fun will begin at 4 p.m. with live music from 4:30-10 p.m. by The Relics, Cover That and The Sons of Gladys Kravits. Try your luck in the silent auction and 50/50 raffle fundraisers. There will also be a special area designated for kids (and parents) for fun family experience. Besides great music, there will be food, drinks and non-alcoholic beverages for all ages.

Bondurant Summerfest
Monday and Tuesday, June 9-10
Downtown Bondurant
The Bondurant Men’s Club’s annual Bondurant Summerfest promises fun for all ages. Enjoy entertainment, a parade, carnival, games and much more. Monday features the parade at 6 p.m. from the high school to the middle school followed by activities downtown, including the carnival. An open-mic stage Tuesday is new to the event. A variety of live entertainment and demonstrations will be featured on two stages and fireworks will be held behind the middle school.

Urbandale Summer Concert Series
Various dates, 6:30-8 p.m.
Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park, next to the Urbandale Public Library
Enjoy free, high-quality music in a family-friendly setting. Bring your lawn chair or blanket, and feel free to pack a cooler.

  • Tuesday, June 10: Major Blues and Mugshots
  • Tuesday, June 24: Tommy Doggett
  • Sunday, June 29: Wind and Strings - Flute and Harp Duo
  • Thursday, July 10: Brass Blast Brass Band
  • Tuesday, July 29: June Bugs DSM
  • Tuesday, Aug. 26: River City Opry

The Bacoon Ride
Saturday, June 14, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Waukee Raccoon River Valley Trail Head, Hickman Road and N.W. 10th St.
This wildly popular event draws cyclists from all over the country, combining two Iowa favorites: bacon and the Raccoon River Valley Trail. Riders will stop in various towns along the route to enjoy bacon-themed food and drinks, making for a tasty and memorable experience. Plus, the ride supports local charities, blending fun with philanthropy. Sign up at www.eventbrite.com/e/bacoon-ride-2025-tickets-1218016011679.

Fueling Memories: Modern Custom Dreams Car Show
Friday, June 27, and Saturday, June 28
Spectators Sports Bar & Grill, 3200 Adventureland Drive, Altoona
The public is invited for two days of car culture, community and unforgettable moments. Friday, June 27, 9-11 p.m., kick things off with the event’s first-ever light show. Saturday, June 28, gates open at 2 p.m. The main car show is from 4-8 p.m. $20 registration fee. Free entry for Spectators Awards at 8 p.m.

Wheeling with Waukee Bike Ride
Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m. to noon
Raccoon River Valley Trailhead, Hickman Road, near 10th Street
Grab your friends and get ready to ride through Waukee at the Waukee Area Chamber's first Wheeling with Waukee Bike Ride. Ride the trail to Dallas Center. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. and wheels to the trail at 10 a.m. Following the ride, stop at Kenny's Garage for a social. Register by June 13 to receive a bike ride T-shirt with registration. Register at https://members.waukeechamber.com/events/details/2025-wheeling-with-waukee-annual-bike-ride-507.

 
Serve up a one-pot time-saver
 

(Family Features) If you feel like you’re constantly scrambling in the evenings to help with homework, prep dinner and get ready for the next day, turn to a warm, cozy meal that’s ready in a snap. This Skillet Lasagna is a one-pot solution that makes cleanup a breeze so you can skip the craziness of home cooking. Visit Culinary.net to find more family-favorite recipes for those hectic evenings at home.

Skillet lasagna
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  • 44 ounces marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup ricotta
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen spinach
  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • bread, for serving
  • Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)


Directions:

  • In large skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef with onion power, garlic powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Drain excess grease. Mix in marinara sauce, heavy whipping cream, ricotta and spinach.

  • Break up lasagna noodles and add to skillet. Cover and let set over medium heat 10 minutes. Stir and top with mozzarella cheese. Cover and let set 10 minutes.

  • Serve with bread and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

 
 
 
From your North Polk Living magazine
 

Mailed to residential home addresses in Polk City, Alleman, Elkhart and Sheldahl the third Thursday of each month.

This month's cover story:

PAMPERED PETS

Residents share how they go the extra mile to spoil their critters

Many pet owners view their animal companions as part of the family — deserving of the best care, lots of attention, and at least a few perks. Besides the usual walks, pet beds and toys, some of these pampered pets get extra special treatment: pup cups from drive-throughs, birthday parties, paw soaks and a special place in those important days of their owners’ lives — as well as in their hearts.

[...]

 
Read this month's issue
 

P.S. As a free newsletter, we rely on readers like you to grow our subscriber list. If you have friends or coworkers who you think would enjoy Polk City Living Weekly, share this email with them and they can subscribe by CLICKING HERE. or under the subscribe tab at IowaLivingMagazines.com

 

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