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Sept. 25 - Oct. 1, 2026

Got water in your basement?

The words in the headline of this column were part of a common phrase of my youth, directed at anyone whose pant length may have been on the short side. This was the 1970s. Before capris. Before clam diggers. Before pedal-pushers. Back then, the longer and more flared the pant legs were, the better — until they got caught in your bicycle chain. Even so, short pants were called “floods,” a clever tie-in to the aforementioned “water in the basement” question.

I am guessing this whole bit of tomfoolery came from the attempt to keep pant legs dry by rolling them up when walking through water. At least, that makes sense to me. Maybe it was a regional thing. Perhaps you had your own colorful vocabulary for “highwaters” where you grew up.

Of course, with all the rain we have had lately, many of you are dealing with actual rain water in your basement. And you may even be wearing “floods” while you clean it up. For your sake, I hope not. I remember those days all too well.

Firing up the wet vac was a common occurrence in one of my childhood homes whenever it rained. The Realtor who sold my family the house said it did not have water in the basement. The Realtor was wrong. My brother and I would cringe whenever we heard thunder because we knew what was coming next. Out came the wet vac. Then the squeegee. Then the towels. Then the cleaning supplies. It was not “family fun night.” It was “welcome to the basement water-removal department.”

After a few years of this, Mom decided enough was enough. The carpet was torn out, tile was installed and that cracked basement wall behind the paneling was structurally repaired. And it worked. We could finally join Eddie Rabbitt and love a rainy night.

Today, sump pumps are humming across Iowa, working overtime to keep basements dry. Homeowners are crossing their fingers that the pumps don’t burn up, the power doesn’t go out and the rain doesn’t decide to move into the basement for an extended stay.

People in other states sometimes wonder why we even have basements. Those people have never experienced an Iowa tornado. Around here, a basement is not just extra living space. It is a storm shelter, storage unit, laundry room, recreation area and, occasionally, an indoor swimming pool.

So, the next time someone asks, “You got water in your basement?” take a moment before answering. Because, these days, it might not be a joke about your pants. It might be a serious question. And, if the answer is yes, I hope your sump pump is working, your wet vac is nearby and your pant legs are short enough to stay out of the water.

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

Upcoming in North Polk Living magazine:

Blood donors: Are you a blood donor? Have you had a personal experience with someone who needed a blood donation? Have you volunteered at blood drives? If you have been involved in any way, we would like to hear from you. Email tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com and include your name and town you live in.

Veterans salutes: Submit your Veterans Profiles to Tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com. Include photo, name, town where you live, military branch, rank, enlistment dates, and answer to: “What would you like others to know about serving your country?”

Fall Festival Bazaar and Bake Sale

Saturday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m. to noon
Sheldahl United Methodist Church, Sixth and Hubbell, Sheldahl

The Sheldahl United Women in Faith group is hosting its Fall Festival Bazaar and Bake Sale, featuring a large inventory of denim rugs, nuts, cards, baked goods and craft items, as well as a coffee corner.

Public meetings

City Council Meeting, Sept. 28, 6 p.m.

Polk City Public Library news

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

Comet Kids STEAM, Thursday, Oct. 1, at 4:15 p.m. Calling all kindergarten through sixth-graders. Get ready to explore, create and problem-solve with a new STEAM challenge at each meeting. Come ready to experiment, think creatively and discover just how much fun STEAM can be. Registration required.
Family Game Day with The Dealt Hand, Sunday, Oct. 4, from 1-4 p.m., Fenders Brewing
Not-A-School-Day, Monday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m. to noon. When North Polk Schools are out for Monday teacher in-service days, A.S.A.P. is keeping the creativity going. This fine arts program gradually builds skills from month to month while still welcoming new students at any point. Registration is required, but drop-ins are welcome as space allows.
Iowa Storm Chaser Network, Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. Grab your umbrellas and join Mike Cox from the Iowa Storm Chasing Network for a thrilling, one-hour adventure. Explore the electrifying world of storm chasing, peek into the crystal ball for upcoming weather predictions and get tips on staying safe when the skies turn dramatic. Plus, feast your eyes on some jaw-dropping footage collected over the years. It’s a whirlwind event for all ages. No registration required.
BYO Art, Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 1-3 p.m., and Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 5-7 p.m. Bring your own art, craft or coloring project to work on while you relax and chat with others. No sign-up necessary. Ages 17 and older.
Wednesday Book Club, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. “West with Giraffes” by Lynda Rutledge. In 1938, a young Dust Bowl rowdy named Woodrow Nickel embarks on a transformative 12-day road trip to deliver two hurricane-surviving giraffes to the San Diego Zoo. Now 105 years old, Woodrow recounts this historical adventure, weaving a coming-of-age tale about the profound impact of animals and the kindness of strangers during a weary era of American history.

Polk City Public Library recurring events

Geri-Fit® Strength Training Workouts, Mondays at 9 a.m.
Chair Yoga, Tuesdays at 9 a.m.
Tiny Tots Storytime, Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m.
Tiny Tots Playdates, first through fourth Thursdays at 10 a.m. No playdate Oct. 8.
Qigong/Tai Chi, Wednesdays at 9 a.m.
STEAM Storytime, Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m., ages 3-5.
Ladies’ Wednesday Coffee, Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon
Sit N Stitch, Thursdays from 6-8 p.m.
Zumba/Low-Impact Dance, Fridays at 9 a.m. — No class Oct. 9
Men’s Friday Coffee, 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.

Fall Critter Crawl: Saturday, Sept. 26, 6-7 p.m. Yellow Banks Park, Prairie View Shelter. Join a naturalist on a hike around Yellow Banks Park and search for signs of animals in the forest and hopefully come across some critters in their natural habitat. Free, all ages welcome.
Nature in Focus Photography Walk at Easter Lake: Sunday, Sept. 27, 9-10 a.m., Easter Lake Park, Shelter No. 4. Bring your cameras and love for nature on this photography walk with a Polk County Conservation naturalist. Find your next photography subject while learning a few nature facts along the way. Document the seasons changing, wildlife sightings, and native plant growth. You are welcome to bring your digital cameras or simply use your phone camera in the company of other nature photography enthusiasts. This is a great way to meet other hobbyists and share tips and tricks while enjoying the great outdoors. Free, ages 12 and older.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Heritage Jubilee
Saturday, Oct. 3, 1-4 p.m.
Historic Jordan House, 2001 Fuller Road, West Des Moines
Everyone is invited to an afternoon of hands-on learning and fun at the 2026 Jordan House Heritage Jubilee. Visitors will have the opportunity to hear the toe-tapping tunes of the Weary Ramblers on the Jordan House porch; walk in the footsteps of history during an Underground Railroad experience; make a wreath and learn how to use natural materials to dye fabric from the Polk County Master Gardeners; learn about Indigenous music and storytelling with Native Pride dance and drum crew; and crush apples, taste fresh cider, churn butter, make a rag doll and much more. Learn more at www.wdmhs.org/heritagejubilee.

Des Moines Civic Orchestra performance
Sunday, Oct. 25, 2 p.m.
Sheslow Auditorium at Drake University
The Des Moines Civic Orchestra (previously The Des Moines Community Orchestra) will present its first concert of the 2026-2027 season with its new conductor and music director, Dr. Jonathan Sturm. There is no admission charge, but donations are always welcome.

Iowa Brewery Running Series
Various dates and breweries
The Iowa Brewery Running Series is back for its seventh season of casual fun runs that start and end at local breweries. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just in it for the beer, these events offer something for everyone: local brews, live music, food trucks, vendors, giveaways and all-around good vibes. Register and learn more at www.breweryrunningseries.com/iowa.

Oct. 24: Dimensional Brewing Co., Dubuque
Oct. 31: HiFi Brew Lounge, West Des Moines (Boos & Brews 5K)
Nov. 15: Field Day Brewing Co., North Liberty
Dec. 6: Confluence Brewing Co., Des Moines (Winter 3K)

Made in the Midwest Season
Stoner Theater, Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines
Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) is turning up the volume on local talent with the return of its Made in the Midwest series — a celebration of regional artists that continues to spotlight the creativity, diversity and energy of Midwest musicians. The fall 2026 lineup showcases five stand-out acts spanning indie, soul, pop, jazz and bluegrass:

Thursday, Oct. 15: TAE and The Neighborly, Soul and Pop. Opener: Rutabaga
Saturday, Nov. 7: NOLA Jazz Band Quartet, Jazz.
Saturday, Nov. 14: GreenTTea and The Tempos, Soul. Opener: Indi&Mk
Thursday, Dec. 3: MoonShroom, Bluegrass/Americana. Opener: Casey Joe Collins

Tickets for all performances are available at DMPA.org, by calling 515-246-2300 or by stopping by the Civic Center Ticket Office at 221 Walnut St. in Des Moines. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase onsite the night of each performance.

The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
Select nights, Sept. 26 - Nov. 1
500 Locust St., Des Moines
The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction is preparing to celebrate its 15th year with its largest and most ambitious season to date. Located beneath downtown Des Moines, The Slaughterhouse will return this fall with more than $1 million invested in sets, props, effects and Halloween overload, creating an expanded experience filled with immersive environments, original characters and relentless live scares.

Special events at The Haunt, Wednesdays in October: The Halloween season will continue beyond The Slaughterhouse’s regular operating nights through a rotating lineup of special Wednesday evening events at The Haunt, the year-round speakeasy of the macabre located within The Slaughterhouse property. Throughout October, The Haunt will present an assortment of theatrical performances, live entertainment and interactive experiences, including: Puppet’s Peepshow, a Halloween-themed burlesque revue; Squeamish, a theatrical production presented by About Time Theater, Nocturne, The Haunt’s live DJ night; and Dungeon Night, a live horror trivia game show.
Trunk or Treat, Thursday, Oct. 29: This year’s event will feature an assortment of hearses, rat rods and uniquely decorated vehicles, along with the return of family-friendly Halloween festivities and an unusual new attraction: a Zombie Animal Petting Zoo. Additional event times, participation details and visitor information will be announced closer to the event.

Individual dates, reservations and event details will be announced through The Haunt and The Slaughterhouse. Visit https://slaughterhousedm.com/. Get tickets at https://app.hauntpay.com/events/theslaughterhouse.

Pumpkins After Dark Des Moines
Oct. 9-31
Des Moines Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines
The Water Works Park Foundation introduces a new Halloween-themed event this October that promises to become a beloved annual celebration in Des Moines Water Works Park. Welcome to Pumpkins After Dark, an award-winning outdoor Halloween attraction. This family-friendly, walk-through experience features more than 10,000 hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns illuminating the Lauridsen Amphitheater, Manatt Great Lawn, Arboretum Road and the Des Moines Biergarten. There are no actors and no jump scares — just creativity, wonder and the warm glow of thousands of pumpkins. Purchase tickets at https://pumpkinsafterdark.com/des-moines.

Fuel your tailgate team with a steakhouse side

If you’re looking for a tasty twist on tailgating tradition that’ll give you as much energy in the stands as the athletes on the field, look for a steakhouse-worthy side dish that’s loaded with complex carbohydrates and fueling flavor.

These Steakhouse Hasselback Potatoes, loaded with caramelized onions and crispy bacon, feature Wisconsin Russets — a complex carbohydrate that plays an important role in the body by providing energy to cells, the brain and certain parts of the kidney. As a healthier choice than simple carbs, which are composed of sugars that break down faster in your system, potatoes are also a good source of vitamin B6, potassium, copper, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, dietary fiber and pantothenic acid, making them a superstar selection on game day.

Tackle your next tailgate with more delicious recipes by visiting eatwisconsinpotatoes.com.

Steakhouse Hasselback Potatoes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 90 minutes
Servings: 8

Hasselback Potatoes:

4 Wisconsin Russets (about 1 pound each)
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons kosher salt

Caramelized Onions:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2.2 pounds yellow onions, sliced thin
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/4 cup cognac or brandy (optional)

To Plate:

1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
12 ounces hickory smoked bacon, cooked and cut into 2-inch pieces
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 F.
To make Hasselback potatoes: Using vegetable brush, wash potatoes. Dry well and place on cutting board. Arrange handles of two wooden spoons so they are alongside potatoes to prevent knife from slicing all the way through. Make several cuts down each potato about 1/4 inch apart. Repeat with remaining potatoes and arrange on baking sheet fitted with wire rack.
Drizzle with olive oil, making sure some oil is in slices. Sprinkle salt on each potato.
Bake 90 minutes, or until potatoes are crispy on outside, fluffy in center and internal temperature is 205 F. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
To make caramelized onions: In heavy-bottomed shallow pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced onions and season with salt. Continue to cook, stirring regularly until onions are deep brown and caramelized. Deglaze pan with cognac or brandy, if desired, scraping caramelized bits off bottom of pan. Remove from heat and set aside.
To assemble, sprinkle potatoes with cheese, about 1/4 cup per spud, ensuring some cheese is in potato slices. Place cooked bacon pieces in some slices.
Return potatoes to oven for about 5 minutes, just long enough to heat potatoes slightly and melt cheese. Place potatoes on serving platter and garnish with caramelized onions, sour cream and chopped chives.

HELP WANTED: Looking for someone who is excellent at pulling weeds. I have strawberry beds and flower beds that need cleaned up. Email gronwoldb@yahoo.com. Located in Van Meter.

WANTED: Stereo and electronic radio stuff, receivers, speakers, guitar amp, etc. Any age or condition is OK. Call 515-238-3343.

DECLUTTERING AND ORGANIZING SERVICES: Overwhelmed by clutter? Let me help you create a calm, organized home for a healthier, happier living space. Services include home organization, decluttering, and tailored packages. Call Jennifer at (515) 991-2511 to book your consultation!

In the current issue of North Polk Living magazine:

FROM DREAM TO REALITY

Residents reimagine their homes to fit their lives

Home improvement projects are often about much more than a few repairs, fresh paint and new appliances. They are about creating living spaces that fit the owners’ needs, style and desire for a home that is “just right.” Residents share how their renovations made their dreams into a reality.

[...]

Read the full digital issue

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