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July 17-23, 2026

 
 
Spandex, sweet corn and small-town charm
 

It is July, and you know what that means. Thousands of otherwise rational adults voluntarily climb onto bicycles and decide that pedaling across Iowa during the hottest part of summer sounds like the perfect vacation. It is called RAGBRAI, and somehow this makes complete sense.

If you are from Iowa, or if you have ever owned a bicycle, you have heard plenty about the event. Some of it is true. Some of it sounds too ridiculous to be true but probably is. The riders are only part of the story. Months before the first tire hits the pavement, volunteers transform quiet towns into temporary cities capable of welcoming thousands of cyclists wearing enough brightly colored spandex to be spotted from the moon. For one week, Iowa becomes the world's largest rolling family reunion, an all-you-can-eat buffet and a mobile sauna.

The rest of us prepare by asking the same questions every year: Which roads are closed? Can I still get to work? And why is someone riding a unicycle while dressed like a banana?

RAGBRAI is one of those uniquely Iowa traditions that sounds completely absurd until you experience it. Explain it to someone from another state, and they will think you are making the whole thing up. Thousands of people ride bicycles across Iowa? They sleep in strangers’ yards? They eat pie for breakfast and call it carb-loading? And everyone thinks this is perfectly normal? For one glorious week, the answer is yes.

That is the magic of RAGBRAI. Front yards become campgrounds. Schools become shower stations. Churches become cafés. Farmers wave from tractors. Children sell lemonade. Somewhere, an Iowa grandmother is producing cinnamon rolls at a rate that would impress a commercial bakery.

Cyclists quickly discover that the distance between two Iowa towns is never a straight line. It is a scenic detour from the pork chop stand to the ice cream truck, then to the homemade pie tent, followed by sweet corn, giant cookies and, naturally, another slice of pie. By the time riders reach the Mississippi River, they have consumed enough calories to justify turning around and riding back.

I admire anyone willing to pedal across the state. I also admire air conditioning, reclining lawn chairs and vehicles with cup holders. We all have our preferences.

Even if you never ride a single mile, RAGBRAI is worth celebrating. It reminds visitors that Iowa's small towns are more than dots on a map. They are places where neighbors welcome strangers, feed them far more than they should, cheer them like hometown heroes and send them down the road smiling. In an era when people seem determined to argue about everything, it is refreshing to spend a week celebrating pie, bicycles and the remarkable hospitality that makes Iowa unlike anywhere else.

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

 
 
Golf outing
 

The Polk City Chamber Golf Outing was held June 26 at the Tournament Club of Iowa. Among the participants were Kolby Shackelford, Mark Schilling and Jackson Green.

 

Elkhart citywide garage sale

Elkhart is having a citywide garage sale on July 25. Enjoy an opportunity to visit multiple sales on the same day.

 
 

Polk City Public Library news

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

  • Announcements: Summer reading logs are due no later than 3 p.m. Aug. 8. Prize drawings will be held Aug. 10.
  • Vision to Learn: No-Cost Eye Exams: Monday, Aug. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vision to Learn provides vision screenings, eye exams and glasses for children in grades K-12 at no cost to families. Appointments are required; no walk-ins. See the library calendar for details and registration.
  • Adult Apron Adventures: Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2 p.m. Explore the story behind one of America’s most surprising bakery treats — the “popped” tart. After gaining national attention following a mention by actor Ryan Gosling on “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” a Tallahassee bakery brought this treat into the spotlight. Join us to learn how to make your own. Ingredients and tools will be provided. Feel free to bring your favorite apron. Registration required. Ages 17 and older.
  • Adult Coloring: Wednesday, Aug. 5, 1 p.m.. and Tuesday, Aug. 18, 5 p.m. Enjoy a relaxing time of coloring. Supplies are provided or bring your own. Ages 17 and older.
  • Wednesday Book Club: Wednesday, Aug. 5, 7 p.m.“A Council of Dolls” by Mona Susan Power. This novel follows three generations of Dakhóta women whose lives are reflected in the dolls they carry, exploring themes of trauma, resilience and healing.
 

Polk County Conservation events

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

  • July Summer Skills: Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Summer is about having fun and playing outside. Join PCC naturalists as they introduce your child to some fun outdoor activities which can be enjoyed the rest of their lives. Come to one or sign-up for an entire series. All equipment will be provided. Registration required by two days prior to the class. July 21, Archery; July 23, Outdoor Survival.
  • Hike for Health at Jester Park: 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. The event is 9:30-10:30 a.m. Monday, July 20, at Jester Park Nature Center. Enjoy the camaraderie and explore some new trails. Registration required by July 19. The event is free and is for ages 12 and older.
  • Fireflies by Firelight: Join an evening of firefly fun from 8:30-9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Julyu 25 at Thomas Mitchell Park, Shelter No. 1. Learn about their life history, and how and why they glow. Nets will be on hand for you to gently catch and observe these amazing insects. A firepit will be available to roast marshmallows as you wait for the fireflies to emerge. Registration required by July 24. Cost is $5. All ages welcome.
  • Family Fun Night: Gather your friends and family together for a low-cost night of fun at Jester Park’s Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, July 31. Opportunities will be available for bouldering (ages 4 and older) and archery (10 and older), playing a variety of family games and puzzles, and enjoying time outdoors, or in, by the fire making s’mores. Light snacks will be provided. Pay cash (preferred) or card at the door for this open-house style event. Cost is $5 per person, with children younger than 4 free. No registration required.
 
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Urbandale Summer Concert Series
Various dates
Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Gardens, 3400 86th St., Urbandale
Summer sounds better in Urbandale. Make the most of your summer evenings with free, live music in a beautiful outdoor setting. The 2026 Summer Concert Series brings a variety of artists and genres to Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park, creating the perfect opportunity to relax, connect and enjoy the season with friends and family. Each concert begins at 6:30 p.m. and offers a unique style of music, so there is always something new to experience:

  • Tuesday, July 21: Kinda Petty
  • Sunday, July 26: Pullin’ Strings
  • Tuesday, Aug. 11: Richie Lee

Stargazing Nights at Simpson College

Last Friday of every month after dusk

Blank Performing Arts Center parking lot, corner of D Street and Detroit Avenue.
 Join for stargazing on the last Friday of every month after dusk. Canceled if raining.

Friday Night Live Concert
Friday, July 17, 7-10 p.m.
Jamie Hurd Amphitheater, 4100 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines
The Friday Night Live series at the scenic Jamie Hurd Amphitheater offers a unique combo: live music and outdoor movies. Through August, enjoy electrifying band concerts on the third Friday of the month, followed by great outdoor movies on the fourth Friday of each month. The July concert features Suede. Enjoy food starting at 7 p.m. and music starting at 8 p.m.

Friday Night Live Movie
Friday, July 24, 7-10 p.m.
Jamie Hurd Amphitheater, 4100 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines
The July 24 movie will be “Jurassic World Rebirth.” Enjoy food starting at 7 p.m. and the movie starting at 8 p.m.

Granny Basketball National Tournament
July 17-19
Prairie Trail Sports Complex, 2250 S.W. Vintage Parkway, Ankeny
The Iowa Gold Stars and the Ankeny Honey Bees will be hosting the 2026 National Granny Basketball Tournament at the Prairie Trail Sports Complex in Ankeny, July 17-19.
This national tournament will attract approximately 30 teams to compete in six-on-six women’s basketball, similar to the Iowa girls high school rules in 1920 including the 1920 uniform. More than 350 Granny Basketball players and nearly 100 volunteers will be coming from Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Arizona, California, Ontario (Toronto) and across the state of Iowa. For more information, visit www.grannybasketball.com.

‘August: Osage County’
Aug. 7-16, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.
Ankeny Community Theatre, 1932 S.W. Third St., Ankeny
“August: Osage County” by Tracy Letts will be performed at the Ankeny Community Theatre. A vanished father. A pill-popping mother. Three sisters harboring secrets. When the large Weston family unexpectedly reunites after Dad disappears, their Oklahoman family homestead explodes in a maelstrom of repressed truths and unsettling secrets. Add in Violet, the drugged-up, scathingly acidic matriarch, and you’ve got a show that unflinchingly — and uproariously — exposes the dark side of the Midwestern American family. Order tickets online at https://tickets.midwestix.com/events/22086/tag/website.

CITYVIEW’s Summer Stir
Friday, July 31
Des Moines East Village
CITYVIEW’s traveling cocktail party returns. For $25 advance ticket, sample 10 summer cocktails at East Village bars and restaurants. Cost is $35 at the door. For information and tickets, visit https://summerstirs.dmcityview.com.

Levitt AMP Earlham Music Series 2026 Food n’ Drink Lineup
Sundays at 6 p.m.
Earlham City Park, Earlham

  • July 19: Music: BYOBrass, Beth and Brandon. Food trucks: Hotsy Totsy, Pho Wheels & Sushi, Street Sweets, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
  • Aug. 2: Music: Leon Timbo, Carol Montag Music. Food trucks: Hotsy Totsy, Sabores De Mexico, Street Sweets, Jack Frost Drink Lab.
  • Aug. 9: Music: Newfound Road, Cedar County Cobras. Food trucks: Karam’s Grill, Hotsy Totsy, C’est La Crepe.
  • Aug. 16: Music: XOLEX, Bone People. Food trucks: Hotel Luna, Snappy’s BBQ, Pho Wheels & Sushi, Street Sweets.Tickets are available at www.theingersoll.com/events or at Ticketmaster.com/TheIngersoll.
 
 
Decadent sticky rice recipes for dessert
 

(Feature Impact) Although many people associate rice with savory dishes, this staple grain can actually level up your dessert game, too. Cultures from around the world have invented a variety of creative ways to turn the sticky rice in your pantry into treats you can whip up when you’re on the prowl for something sweet.

Sticky rice, also known as sweet rice, is a specific type of short- or medium-grain rice that, as the name implies, becomes sticky when cooked. With Success Boil-in-Bag Sticky Rice, it’s simple to make sweet, soft, perfectly cooked rice for desserts without extra steps, equipment or hassle. In only 12 minutes, you’ll have an ideal base to use for your favorite recipes.

A rice-based take on a quintessential British dessert, this Sticky Toffee Pudding is decadent and full of mouthwatering flavor. Take it to the next level by adding caramelized banana and toasted coconut toppings.

For more ideas on how to use rice for dessert – or for breakfast, lunch and dinner – visit SuccessRice.com.

Sticky Toffee Pudding
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-4

Ingredients:

  • 1 bag Success Sticky Rice
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3/8 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • toasted coconut, for garnish

Caramelized Banana:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 banana, sliced into coins
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

  • Prepare rice according to package directions.
  • Remove rice from bag. Return to pot and stir in milk, brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Simmer 5 minutes.
  • In small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in sugar 2 minutes, or until dissolved. Whisk in cream and bring to simmer. Cook 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and remaining salt.
  • To make caramelized banana: In medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until syrupy. Add banana coins in single layer and cook 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drizzle vanilla on top.
  • Add rice to bowl. Pour toffee sauce on top. Garnish with caramelized bananas and coconut. Serve warm or chilled.
 
 
 

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

FOR SALE: 2007 21’ Lowe Suncruiser BIMINI 214 pontoon boat. Great for family lake days, fishing fun or evening sunset cruises. 50 hp Mercury 2-stroke outboard. 55 LB Thrust Minn Kota trolling motor. Shoreland’r trailer with recently replaced bumpers and tires. Lowrance depth and fish finder. Front trolling motor (with foot pedal) and mount included. Built-in tackle storage and “live well.” Lots of storage and accommodates 12 people. Three life jackets and three buoys. Newer Boss Bluetooth radio. Recently serviced by Lake Panorama Marine and ready for the water. Recent maintenance includes new spark plugs, fuel filter, primer bulb, fuel line, water pump and impeller kit. New stern light installed. $12,000 or best offer. Call Tom Woody 515-778-1231.

FOR SALE: 2018 Coachmen Mirada 25BK. Sleeps 8 (king bed, drop down front bed, queen sofa bed, dinette), 37’ ( bike rack not included), stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator with ice, two roof AC units, heat pump, gas furnace, outdoor kitchen, two slide outs, power awnings, 5500 watt Onan generator, 2000 watt inverter, lithium house batteries, auto leveling, insulated battery storage and wet bay. 55,000 miles, new tires, engine and generator serviced in March 2026. Asking $64,200. Message or text Dave Milburn at 515-240-4672. More photos at https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/5040136236

 
 

In the current issue of North Polk Living magazine:

PLAYGROUND ADVENTURES

Unique play spaces spark local kids’ imaginations

Kids of all ages require space to explore, romp, play and let their imaginations soar. Yet not all homes or apartments come with backyard spaces for play — and not all pocketbooks can afford equipment for climbing, sliding and make believe. However, with West Des Moines’ ample park system, playgrounds offer opportunities for fun and adventure for all.

[...]

 
Read the full digital 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 the subscribe tab at IowaLivingMagazines.com

 

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8101 Birchwood Ct Suite D
Johnston, Iowa 50131

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