Memorial Day Ceremony — This and more in this week's issue of Polk City Living Weekly!

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That noisy little clock with bells

I received my first alarm clock as a kid in the 1970s. I am quite sure it came from Mom, as did most gifts, regardless of whose name was on the tag.

It was the classic model: round face, two bells on top and a metal hammer that sounded like it was trying to escape. When it went off, it didn’t wake me up so much as accuse me of something. Of course, this only worked if I remembered to wind it, which was a big “if” for a 5-year-old.

This raises a fair question: Why did a 5-year-old even need an alarm clock? I had nowhere to be. And on the rare occasion I did, Mom handled the wake-up call just fine — no bells required. The only real accomplishment of that clock was jolting everyone else in the house while I played with it and giggled.

It also ticked loudly. Not a gentle, soothing tick. More like the kind of ticking you hear right before something explodes in an old TV show. Eventually, it spent most of its life unwound and buried in my toy box where it could do no harm.

A few years later, I inherited an electric clock. This one had a buzzer — because apparently bells weren’t irritating enough — and a dim glow that made it feel futuristic. It also had a snooze button, which seemed like a great idea in theory and a terrible idea in practice. Let’s be honest. The snooze button is not there to help you wake up. It is there to help you negotiate with reality.

Later, I went all-in with technology and bought an alarm clock with a radio. I could wake up to music instead of mechanical panic. Civilization had arrived. I still have one of those clocks today. The radio never comes on, and the alarm rarely goes off. These days, my internal clock wakes me up well before I need it to. No snooze button. No negotiation. No mercy. I do still use it, though. Mostly to check how many hours of sleep I’m not getting.

Ever wonder who started all this? You could give some credit to the rooster, of course. But the Seth Thomas Clock Co. received an official patent for a bedside alarm clock in 1876, and things escalated from there. By 1931, Westclox introduced the chime alarm with the comforting slogan, “First he whispers, then he shouts.” Because what everyone wants at 6 a.m. is a device that eases into yelling. In 1949 came the Moonbeam, which flashed a light before buzzing — like a tiny sunrise followed immediately by regret. Then in 1956, General Electric rolled out the snooze alarm, giving humanity a whole new way to be late.

Today, of course, many of us use our phones as alarm clocks. They work great — right up until when the battery dies overnight, and suddenly it is 10 a.m. and we are inventing excuses.

So, yes, I’ve come a long way from that noisy little clock with the bells. But, in the end, I rely on my built-in alarm that doesn’t need batteries, doesn’t have a snooze button and apparently thinks sleep is optional.

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

Polk City Kiwanis Students of the Month

Claire Heuermann is one of the Polk City Kiwanis Students of the Month for April. She is the daughter of Mike Heuermann and Erika Heuermann. She is involved in band, choir, musical, speech, winter guard, tennis, cheer and play. Honors include Gold Honor Roll, Lettering all four years in band and choir, and NHS chair for NHS recycling program. She also participates in community theater.

“I am in many fine arts activities. Music is my passion. I love to read and bake in my free time. I am going to Luther College and majoring in music education. Next year, I want to help kids learn the power of music and want to help them reach their full potential. I want to thank my family, teachers, coaches and directors for helping me get to where I am now.”

Memorial Day Ceremony

Join the Polk City American Legion Post 232 this Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 8 a.m. to noon, to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Organizers invite the community to reflect on the meaning of the day through tradition, tribute and shared remembrance. Breakfast will be served by the Sons of the American Legion from 8-10:30 a.m. at Post 232 114 W. Broadway St., Polk City. The Memorial Day Ceremony will take place on the Polk City Square at 11 a.m., followed by refreshments back at Post 232.

In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors at Post 232. For updates and additional information, visit the Polk City Iowa American Legion Post 232 Facebook page.

Everything You Wanted To Know About AI in Your Life

The Polk City Kiwanis Club presents “Everything You Wanted To Know About AI in Your Life” on Thursday, May 21, 6 p.m., at Luana Bank Community Room, 855 W. Bridge Road, Polk City. Alex Current, IT Security professional, will discuss how AI may affect our future, how to use it to enhance our lives, and steps for safeguarding ourselves. Open to the public.

Historical Society programs coming up

Big Creek Historical Society, 116 S. 3rd St., Polk City • www.polkcityhistory.org

Home Away From Home: May 12, 6 p.m. Presented by Camp Dodge Museum Curator Mike Vogt. Camp Dodge was one of 16 training camps for WWI draftees. Period images, maps and letters will detail the first time many of these young men left home. This is a program from the Humanities Iowa Speakers Bureau.
The Dragoon Trail as Hiked by Kevin Mason: June 4, 6 p.m. Presented by Assistant Professor of History at UNI Kevin Mason. The story begins with the 1835 expedition of the First U.S. Dragoons. With archival records, maps, indigenous histories and ecological data, Mason will explore how Iowa's prairies and wetlands gave way to farms, towns and transportation networks.

Polk City Public Library news

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

Announcement: The library will be closed May 25 in observance of Memorial Day. 
The Board of Trustees will meet May 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the library meeting room.There are no youth activities in May as we prepare for summer reading.
Fareway Round-Up Week: Friends of the Library, May 4-9. When shopping at Fareway, choose to round up your total to the nearest dollar to support library programs. The Friends of the Library fund programs and the Adventure Pass, which allows patrons to visit area attractions free of charge.
Not-a-School Day: Monday, May 4, 1 p.m. Join us for the final Not-a-School Day of the school year. We’re wrapping up with a May the Fourth-themed celebration, including a “Star Wars” movie, activities and a few surprises inspired by the Force.
Crafternoon: Tuesday, May 5, 2 p.m. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of crafting as we make air-dry clay botanical ornaments and trinket trays. Supplies provided. Ages 17 and older. Registration required.
Wednesday Book Club: Wednesday, May 6, 7 p.m. “Hidden Valley Road” by Robert Kolker. An exploration of the Galvin family’s experience with schizophrenia.
Card Crafting with Jane and Kim: Monday, May 11, 6 p.m. Create handmade cards with Jane and Kim. Cost is $5, payable that night. Beginners welcome. Bring scissors and adhesive if you have them. Ages 17 and older. Register at polkcitylibrary.org one month in advance.
Mah Jongg (with The Dealt Hand): Thursday, May 14, 5 p.m. Back by popular demand, The Dealt Hand returns to teach and host Mah Jongg. Whether you’re learning or playing, supplies and guidance are provided. Registration required. Ages 17 and older.

Polk County Conservation events

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

World Migratory Bird Day. Saturday, May 9, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join the Iowa DNR and Polk County Conservation for a high-flying celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. This is a morning of hands-on family fun. Get up close with majestic birds at our live raptor programs, sharpen your eagle eyes on a guided nature walk, and use binoculars to spot travelers stopping by the park. From interactive migration games for the kids to inspiring success stories for the grown-ups, you’ll discover the incredible superpowers these birds use to travel thousands of miles. Come find out how your family can help them thrive right in your own backyard. Free, all ages welcome.
Creekology Hike. Saturday, May 9, 1-2 p.m., Mally’s Park, 5792 N.E. Berwick Drive, Berwick. Join a naturalist as they lead a hike down Four Mile Creek. We’ll explore the many sciences a creek walk offers, like geology, archaeology, paleontology, limnology and biology, to name just a few. Not sure what all those “ologies” are about? Then join us to find out. Wear old clothes and sturdy shoes/boots that can get wet, as we’ll be hiking in the creek/water. Free, all ages welcome.
Native Plant Sale. Saturday, May 16, 9 a.m. to noon. Jester Park Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Polk County Conservation, Prairie Landscape of Iowa and Plant Iowa LLC are teaming up to offer two native plant sales this spring/summer. All plant species for sale are native to Iowa, and once established, require minimal care while providing numerous benefits to our local wildlife and landscapes. Species plant list coming soon.
Summer Hike with Nature Play. Saturday, May 16, 6-7:30 p.m. Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. May is a busy month. Let’s slow down for just a moment to have some fun. Gather your family together to spend an evening taking part in nature play. We’ll explore Iowa’s habitats through interactive play as we visit some of the highlights of Jester Park. It’ll be a simple and fun evening that will get your family learning together without even knowing it. Free, all ages welcome.
Hike for Health at Fort Des Moines. Monday, May 18, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter 1, 7200 S.E. 5th 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. Free, ages 12 and older. Registration required by May 17.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Mothers Day Breakfast Buffet and Bake Sale
Sunday, May 10, 8 a.m. until noon
West Des Moines Elks Lodge, 2060 N.W. 94th St., Clive
Enjoy a delicious Mother’s Day breakfast, which includes biscuits and gravy, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage patties, cheesy potatoes, and all-you-can-eat pancakes (including blueberry and chocolate chip pancakes), orange juice, milk and coffee. Cost is $11, $5 for children younger than 10. Enjoy a bloody mary or mimosa for $3.50. Proceeds support the Elks Hoop Shoot Program, other youth activities and veteran activities.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Spring Programs
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines

Summer Camp Registration: Give your child a summer of discovery, creativity and outdoor adventure. These nature-based camps combine science, art, exploration and play in a safe, inspiring environment led by experienced educators. Perfect for students entering grades 1–5. Register at https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Spring Garden Market Preview: Thursday, May 7, 5:30-8 p.m. Be the first to shop the Spring Garden Market during this exclusive sip-and-shop event featuring early plant access, a signature drink, hors d’oeuvres, expert guidance from horticulture staff and door prizes. Upgrade to the Cultivator Ticket to demonstrate your support of the garden’s missions and for early entry, special recognition and exclusive perks. Register at https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Flora Mother’s Day Buffet Brunch: Sunday, May 10, Seatings at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Enjoy a delicious buffet brunch in a beautiful garden setting. Reservations required: flora@dmbotanicalgarden.com or at 515-323-6288.

Spring Ephemeral Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
Enjoy a guided walk along the half-mile Oak Savanna loop trail and search for some of the earliest blooming wildflowers of the season. Breathe in the fresh spring air, enjoy vibrant blossoms, and keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and welcome the new season. Meet at the Oak Savanna Trail parking lot, located approximately a quarter mile east of the refuge visitor center along Pacific Street. Wear closed-toe, sturdy shoes, dress in pants and bring insect repellent and drinking water. Contact nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400 for information and to register.

Des Moines Downtown Farmers Market
Saturday, May 2 to Oct. 31, 7 a.m. to noon, 8 a.m. to noon in October
Historic Court District, Downtown Des Moines
The 2026 season will feature 305 vendors, including 43 new participants, with 75 produce and agriculture vendors highlighting the region’s strong farming community. Vendors represent 74 cities across 42 Iowa counties, spanning 12 city blocks from Water Street to Fifth Street. For more information visit www.dsmpartnership.com/desmoinesfarmersmarket.

Give Life 5K
Saturday, May 2, 8:30 a.m.
Raccoon River Park, West Des Moines
Iowa Donor Network honors those who have given the gift of life, celebrates the lives of organ and tissue recipients, and recognizes those who continue to wait for a life-saving transplant at the annual Give Life 5K. This is a family-friendly event so, no matter your skill level, the event is open to everyone. Join in to honor and support those who have been impacted by organ and tissue donation and celebrate the gift of life by registering for the Give Life 5K today. Visit GiveLife5K.com.

Middle River Arts Festival
Saturday, May 2
Madison County Conservation Center, 2508 Pammel Park Trail, Winterset
The Middle River Arts Festival will take place at the Madison County Conservation Center in Pammel Park, hosted by the Winterset Art Center. This event is scheduled for one day and is free of charge.

A sweet beverage for picnics and more

(Feature Impact) Salty snacks and savory sandwiches may fill you up at your next springtime picnic, but no family trip to the park is complete without a sweet, refreshing drink to wash it all down. Stay cool and keep the fun going with a light sip that showcases the taste of the season.

This Picnic Cherry Limeade is easy to make from the comfort of home before being transported (in a non-spill container, of course) to the picnic table or blanket. Just don’t forget the cups and ice.

Find more refreshing beverage ideas by visiting Culinary.net.

Picnic Cherry Limeade
Recipe adapted from “Southern Living”
Total time: 5 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients:

1 jar (10 ounces) whole red maraschino cherries, chilled
6 limes, divided
1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled
1/2 cup tart cherry juice, chilled

Directions:

Drain maraschino cherries, reserving syrup. Set whole cherries aside.
Juice four limes to yield 1/2 cup juice; thinly slice remaining limes.
In large pitcher, stir cherry syrup, lime juice, soda and tart cherry juice. Add lime slices.
Transfer to container with tight-fitting lid for transport. Serve over ice and garnish with reserved whole cherries.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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

HELP WANTED: River Valley Golf Course is hiring for ProShop. Must be over 21 to be considered, 25-40 hours available per week, combination of weekday & weekend shifts, competitive pay based on experience and FREE GOLF! We'd love to have you be a part of our family! Call 515-993-4029 for more details.

In the current issue of North Polk Living magazine:

CELEBRATING HERITAGE

Residents reflect on the traditions that connect them to home

From multigenerational farm families to recent immigrants, the stories of local residents reveal how heritage shapes identity in deeply personal ways. Whether tracing roots to Austria, South Africa or early American settlers, each story reflects a blend of tradition, resilience and adaptation passed down through generations.

[...]

Read the full digital issue

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