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April 25 - May 1, 2025

 
 
Squeaky floors and character
 

Several years ago, I was talking with a friend who lived in a brand-new home and was expressing his annoyances with the squeaky floors. He asked me, “Why is it that squeaky floors in an old home add character but are so disturbing in a new home?”

I didn’t have an answer, but I agreed with him, and I think about his question every time I hear a floor squeak.

Clearly, there are a lot of people who like things bright and shiny and new. To some degree, we probably all do. But there is another seemingly large group of people who want that weathered look in the things they buy, and they will use a great deal of time and/or money to get it.

In recent decades, blue jeans that show wear or have holes in them became fashionable. I would have been quite hip as a young kid, as almost all my pants had the knees worn out from scooting my Hot Wheels around on the shag carpet. Mom was quite handy with the sewing machine, though, so those holes quickly had patches sewn on them.

Years later, while in college, a friend had a pair of jeans she bought with worn threads on purpose. I told her I could take those home and have my mom patch them up. She didn’t laugh. I continue this comment today with my kids. They don’t laugh either.

Back to those floors — the ones without the shag carpet. Another popular trend today is to install wood flooring that comes with imperfections. Dings. Scratches. Miscoloring. All straight from the factory. Some people will even do the weathering process themselves to get this look. You have likely seen this with new furniture, too. Brand new stuff made to look old.

I have used somewhat-related logic in purchasing vehicles. The first dent or scratch in a new car is the one that bothers you the most. But when you buy a used car that already has a few of them, one more isn’t as annoying. Of course, I am not going to purposely bang up my vehicle, but you get the idea.

The notable exception to these weathering techniques seems to be in our own personal appearances. Consumers go to great lengths to try to slow down the aging process and appear younger. I don’t know of any hot-selling products that people buy to make them look older, but we sure spend a lot of money to keep our bodies from wrinkling, graying, cracking, popping — and even squeaking. Then again, maybe all those things simply add character, too.

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

 
 

Celebrate North Polk

Celebrate North Polk (CNP), is the biggest event of the year that raises money for all the additional expenses North Polk Community School has and creates opportunities for students, athletes and the arts. CNP distributes funds equally among Fine Arts Boosters, Athletic Booster Club, and North Polk Foundation. This year's event will be held Saturday, May 31, 5-11:30 p.m. at the FFA Enrichment Center, 1055 S.W. Prairie Trail Parkway in Ankeny. To purchase tickets, visit www.celebratenorthpolk.org.

 

Summer odd-even lawn watering schedule

Lawn watering uses a high volume of water, particularly during the warmer months of the year. Automated, in-ground lawn sprinkler systems need regular maintenance to operate efficiently. Even the most properly maintained system can be operated unwisely, wasting gallons of water.


City of Polk City and Des Moines Water Works, in partnership with Central Iowa Water Works, encourages central Iowa homeowners and businesses to Use Water Wisely, a recommended schedule aimed at smart summer lawn watering. By improving the efficiency of irrigation practices, homeowners and businesses can reduce consumption, save money and reduce the peak load on water facilities.

Recommended schedule: The recommended outdoor watering schedule applies to all spray irrigation systems for homes and businesses:


  • Watering is not recommended on Mondays
.
  • Watering is not recommended during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

  • Even-numbered addresses are encouraged to water on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays, before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.

  • Odd-numbered addresses are encouraged to water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
 

Curbside yard waste collection has begun

Easily dispose of leaves, grass clippings and more right at your curb. Yard waste curbside collection in Polk City occurs on Friday, the regular garbage collection day. You can set out a variety of yard waste for curbside collection, including: twigs and branches, leaves, grass clippings and garden vegetation (such as spoiled vegetables on the vine or wilted flowers from landscaping).

Items that are not accepted include: dirt, mulch, rocks, food or pet waste.

You have two options for curbside collection with Metro Waste Authority:

  • Bags and Stickers: Place yard waste in Compost it! bags or store-brand bags with a green Compost It! sticker attached. Set bags at the curb by 6 a.m. on your regular collection day. Bags and stickers are available at many local retailers.
  • Cart Service: If you have a lot of yard waste, consider a Compost It! cart. Just fill the 96-gallon cart and place it at the curb on your regular collection day each week. 

Logs, stumps, large branches, rocks and dirt are not accepted in the curbside Compost It! program, but they can be self-hauled to Metro Park East Landfill, where yard waste is accepted year-round. 

Once collected, your lawn and garden debris is taken to Metro Compost Center at Metro Park East Landfill. There, Metro Waste Authority’s team turns and maintains the yard waste for four to nine months as it decomposes. The final product is Grow Gold Compost, a natural soil enhancer available for purchase for your home, garden or landscaping projects.

Have questions about yard waste or the Compost It! program? Visit www.WhereItShouldGo.com/YardWaste, or give Metro Waste Authority a call at 515-244-0021.

 

Coming up at the Polk City Community Library

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

Announcements:

  • The library will be closed May 26 in observance of Memorial Day.
  • The Board of Trustees will meet May 5 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 12-17. When you are shopping at Fareway, choose to round-up your total to the nearest dollar and support library programs. The Friends of the Library provide funds for library programs and the Adventure Pass, which lets patrons visit area attractions free of charge.

All-Abilities Club (for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities), Wednesday May 14, 11 a.m. In this story and craft hour for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families and caregivers, we’ll read stories, make crafts and play games together. Register online at polkcitylibrary.org.

Adult Coloring, Tuesday, May 20, 5 p.m. Join us for a relaxing evening of coloring. Colored pencils and gel pens will be provided. You are also welcome to bring your own. For ages 17 and older.

Summer Reading Registration at the Farmer’s Market, Thursday, May 29, 4-8 p.m. Get signed up for our 2025 Summer Reading Program and have fun as a family. Registration will begin at the library on Friday, May 30.

 
 

Polk County Conservation events

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

  • Archaeological Outdoor Exhibit Opening, Sunday, April 27, 10 a.m., Yellow Banks Park, 6801 S.E. 32nd Ave., Pleasant Hill. Join Polk County Conservation staff as they dedicate a new outdoor exhibit. The Yellow Banks Outdoor Interpretive Exhibit features a beautiful 100-foot-long stone wall adorned with large interpretive panels and tactile art tiles. This inclusive and accessible exhibit celebrates the presence of human occupation in Polk County for more than 12,000 years.
  • Wildflower Hike, Sunday, April 27, 1 p.m., Thomas Mitchell Park, 4590 N.E. 108th St., Mitchelville. Meet at the pond parking lot. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the woods and discuss one of the most dazzling and diverse displays of native wildflowers in the county. Learn how to identify these woodland beauties and how they were used by early people.
  • Toddler Tales, Thursday, May 1, 10-10:30 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. 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 Eggciting Eggs.
  • Salamander Celebration, Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. to noon. Easter Lake Event Center, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Celebrate amphibian week by discovering the secret world of salamanders and learn about their unique characteristics, habitats and behaviors.
  • Forest Bathing at Jester, Sunday, May 4, 1-3 p.m., Jester Park, Shelter 5, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Explore the natural healing path of Shinrin Yoku or Japanese forest bathing with Brandy Case Haub, a certified forest guide. This mindful nature exploration will invite you to use your senses to enhance your well-being. Enjoy a two-hour nature retreat and reconnect with nature. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with UnityPoint. Registration required by May 2 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDI4NzM=.
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

WDM Elks Spring Style Show Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
West Des Moines Elks Lodge No. 2752, 2060 N.W. 94th St., Clive
Tickets are $15 each or reserve a table for eight for $130 or a table for four for $70. The Style Show starts at 11 a.m. with a salad luncheon at 12:30 p.m. and door prize drawing at 2 p.m. Funds raised will benefit Veterans Children’s Christmas and other Elks approved charities and outreach.

Spring Wildflower Photography Walk
Saturday, April 26, 9 a.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St., Prairie City
Join photographer Mike Cox for a free, guided photo walk. Stroll the half-mile Oak Savanna trail and discover spring ephemerals. These are the first wildflowers that bloom in the oak savanna. Discover how to take stunning photos as you enjoy the spring weather. Any type of camera is fine for this program, including cell phone cameras. The program will start at the Oak Savanna Trailhead. This trail is a half-mile loop with a gravel surface. The trail has several gradual inclines. The parking lot has a restroom. Wear pants and sturdy walking shoes. Bring a refillable water bottle and insect repellent as well. Contact nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400 to register and for information.

Earth Day Adventure
Sunday, April 27, noon to 3 p.m.
Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines
Bring the friends and family for an afternoon of sustainable activities and outdoor exploration of areas in Water Works Park that you may not even know exist. Go for a hike, bring your bike, identify wildlife, and discover The Wild.

Terrace Hill Mother’s Day Tea Set
Saturday, May 10 from 10:30 a.m. to noon
Terrace Hill, Iowa Governor's Residence and National Historic Landmark, 2300 Grand Avenue, Des Moines  
Guests will enjoy scones, tea sandwiches, sweets and Terrace Hill’s special blend tea while enjoying the beauty of the 1869 residence. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Terrace Hill Partnership, the nonprofit organization that supports necessary conservation and restoration projects at Terrace Hill. Reservations are $50 per guest and must be made in advance. Purchase tickets online through Eventbrite at thmothersdaytea2025.eventbrite.com, or call the Terrace Hill office at 515-281-7205.

Emerald City Make A Wish Gala
Saturday, May 17, 5:30 p.m.
Iowa Events Center, 730 Third St., Des Moines
Experience the magic of a wish. Currently more than 300 wishes are waiting to be granted — and you can help ensure these children receive their wish when they need it most. Bring hope and joy to Iowa kids waiting for their wish. Guests will enjoy dinner, live and silent auctions, after party, plus wish stories that will touch your heart and inspire you. Tickets are available at https://wish.org/iowa/32nd-annual-des-moines-gala.

Downtown Farmers’ Market opens
Saturday, May 3, 7 a.m. to noon
Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines
Opening day for the 50th season of the Downtown Farmers’ Market, presented by UnityPoint Health, is May 3. The Market offers a variety of attractions and activities, including shopping for fresh produce, seasonal flowers, farm fresh eggs and cheese, locally produced wine and fresh baked goods as well as a variety of Iowa-raised meat. Patrons can also eat breakfast, enjoy the atmosphere, meet with family and friends and enjoy live entertainment. This year, The Market will feature 49 new vendors of all types and expand its footprint to 12 city blocks in the Historic Court District of Downtown DSM.

Safe in the Sun 5K/10K Run
Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park, 5205 Grand Ave., Ames
Come together to raise awareness and funds for melanoma research with the Safe in the Sun 5K/10K Run, hosted by the Cancer Bucket Foundation. Whether you’re a runner, a walker or a supporter of the cause, the Safe in the Sun Run offers a meaningful opportunity to help in the fight against melanoma and skin cancer. To register, visit cancerbucket.org/events.

Volunteer Trail Maintenance Training
Saturday, May 3, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St., Prairie City
The public is invited for training on trail maintenance and invasive plant removal. Volunteers will learn about the refuge, trail maintenance procedures, tools and safety. A lunch break will be provided. The afternoon session will involve working along the walking trails and parking lots. Explore Iowa’s tall grass prairie and oak savanna and see the native wildlife, too. Volunteers must sign a volunteer agreement. A volunteer under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian fill out and sign the form. Volunteers must be 16 or older to use hand tools. Volunteers need to wear pants, a long-sleeved shirt and sturdy, closed shoes for fieldwork. Bring a refillable water bottle, and insect repellent is recommended. Contact Nancy Corona to register or for more information at nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400.

Live Music Trivia
Sunday, May 4, 3 p.m.
Staplin Performing Arts Center, 3650 Woodland Ave, West Des Moines
Enjoy thrilling music, test your knowledge with interactive trivia, and participate in fun contests for prizes! Featured performers include Dr. Mei-Hsuan Huang on piano performing Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, and Carson Menke on marimba. Admission is FREE, but tickets are required and available at www.ciwe.org.

12th Annual Race to Feed Kids
Saturday, May 10, 9-11 a.m.
Women of Achievement Bridge in Downtown Des Moines
The Des Moines’ Mary’s Meals Race to Feed Kids isn’t your average 5K run/walk. It’s a passion to end hunger for our world’s youth. Every race registration will feed one child at Mcheza Primary School in Malawi, Africa, for an entire school year. For many of the youth, this may be their only meal of the day, and you are helping to feed them. Register at https://runsignup.com/marysmealsracetofeedkids.

Bird Watching and Bagels
Saturday, May 10, 8 a.m.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St., Prairie City
The public is invited to a fun introduction to bird watching. May is a great time to get outside to see the spring bird migration. Take a guided walk along the Oak Savanna Trail loop. Free loaner binoculars will be available for checkout. Participants can enjoy free bagels and coffee at the visitor center after the walk. This event targets birdwatchers of all skill levels, ages 8 and older. Meet at the Oak Savanna Trailhead. The Oak Savanna Trail is a half-mile loop with a gravel surface and gradual inclines. A restroom is available at the parking lot. Wear pants and sturdy walking shoes. Bringing a refillable water bottle, and insect repellent is also advised. For more information and to register, contact nancy_corona@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400.

Mothers Day Breakfast Buffet and Bake Sale
Sunday, May 11, 8 a.m. - noon
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. Open to the public; All for only $11—children younger than 10 just $5. Enjoy a bloody mary or mimosa for only $3.50. Proceeds support our Hoop Shoot Program, other youth activities and veteran activities.

Planned Parenthood - Shine
Tuesday, May 13, 6-8:30 p.m.
Des Moines Heritage Center, 120 E. Fifth St., Des Moines
Planned Parenthood North Central States is hosting its annual event honoring Planned Parenthood in Iowa: Planned Parenthood – Shine. Enjoy an evening with friends old and new, along with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a photo booth, while the nonprofit recognize its progress, strengthens its commitment, and ensures that expert health care, education and advocacy remain accessible for all. For more information and tickets, visit ppncs.org/shine. Registration due by May 5.

 
Enjoy a lighter soup on cool spring days
 

(Family Features) Permanent heat may be on the way, but spring still offers plenty of chilly, rainy opportunities for a warmup from the inside-out. Serve a comforting bowl of Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup to keep spring chills away.

Lemon chicken orzo soup
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 2 carrots
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
  • 6 cups broth
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon thyme
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  • cucumber sandwiches, for serving

Directions:

  • Chop carrots and celery. In pot, sauté with butter.

  • In bowl, mix chicken with lemon juice and lemon pepper then set aside.

  • After carrots and celery are tender, add broth and orzo to pot. Then add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme and sugar. Simmer 10 minutes then add chicken and cream; simmer about 5 minutes.

  • Add salt and pepper, to taste. Serve with cucumber sandwiches.

 
 
 
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:

RESIDENTS' CHOICE AWARDS

Ankeny/Northern Polk County residents share their favorites.

Residents of Ankeny/Northern Polk County have again weighed in on their favorite businesses, people, events and places in the latest Residents’ Choice poll. The poll results share residents’ top three choices in dozens of categories, many of which are extremely competitive with a handful of votes separating the winner from the runners up. Consequently, we view them all as winners. They have captured the favor of people who live in the area and who know the businesses, people, events and places of the area best.

[...]

 
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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