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Feb. 20-26, 2026

 
 
You scratch my back, and I will scratch yours
 

You have likely heard the phrase in the above headline. You may have even used it a time or two. It means to do a good deed for someone if he or she does a good deed for you. It promotes reciprocity and encourages teamwork. Fair enough.

Some say this phrase has some roots in the English Navy from the 17th Century. The punishments then for sailors being absent, drunk or disobedient were known to be quite severe. At times, the offender would be tied to the ship’s mast and flogged with a lash — known as a cat o’ nine tails — by another crew member. Sailors would sometimes strike deals with each other to deliver only light lashes with the whip (i.e., just “scratching” the offender's back) to ensure they were treated the same in case they ever found themselves on the receiving end. Now, that is just plain smart — and it is good planning.

Another theory is that the origin of the scratching phrase is in the concept of symbiotic relationships in nature, where certain species engage in mutual grooming or cooperation for mutual benefit.

The exact origin may be unclear, but variations of you scratch my back and I will scratch yours have been recorded in English literature dating back to the 18th century.

That’s all interesting, but sometimes we really do need a good back-scratching in one of those itchy spots we just can’t reach. In our younger years, this wasn’t as much of a problem, as we could seemingly maneuver our arms behind our backs like skilled contortionists. Today, I have to implement effort and planning to scratch my head. My back? Forget it.

My wife scratches my back, and I scratch hers. It’s a simple pleasure we both enjoy, both literally and figuratively. The dry air during Iowa’s winters makes our skin itchier, and neither one of us have figured out how to apply lotion on our own back. So, we scratch — and we smile.

We do have one of those wooden back-scratching devices, which does come in handy at times. So does the corner where the walls meet and, on a rare occasion, a wire clothes hanger. You have to be careful with that option, though. It’s not a cat o’ nine tails, but it could leave a mark.

How about you? Do you scratch someone’s back who also scratches yours? Or do you have another solution to relieve the itch? Send me a note and let me know.

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

 
 
Kiwanis Senior of the Month
 

Elise Fosselman has been named a Kiwanis Senior of the Month.

“Hello, I’m Elise Fosselman, a senior at North Polk High School. I am the daughter of John and Misty Fosselman and the younger sister to Ava and Leo, who are both in college. I participate in marching/concert band, color/winter guard and tennis. I am a Silver Cord volunteer, and I am in National Honor Society, Leadership Team and ELP. I have been on the Gold Honor Roll all four years of high school, and I am on the DMACC President’s List. I am involved in Girl Scouts, church, and I am currently working at Smoothie King. My favorite classes are developmental psychology and sculpture. I like going to movies with friends and listening to music. After graduating, I plan to attend Iowa State University.”

 

Polk City Public Library news

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

  • Monday Book Club, “Small Things Like These,” by Claire Keegan: Monday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m. It is 1985 in a small Irish town. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, Bill Furlong, a coal merchant and family man, faces his busiest season. Early one morning, while delivering an order to the local convent, Bill makes a discovery which forces him to confront both his past and the complicit silences of a town controlled by the church.
  • Adult Bingo: Wednesday, Feb. 25, 1-2:30 p.m. Exciting prizes, delicious popcorn, great company and endless fun await! No sign-up necessary.
  • NEW - Toddler and Preschool LEGO DUPLO Free Play: Thursday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m. Drop in for open-ended play that encourages creativity, problem-solving and fun
  • Adult DIY-Floral Watercolor Painting: Thursday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m. Ages 17 and older. Registration required and opens one month prior to the event date.
  • Pre-K Playday: Friday, Feb. 27, 9-11 a.m., at City Hall. In partnership with the Polk City Community Library, we are offering an open play time for children up to age 5. Full of sensory toys, fun structures and musical instruments. Drop in for the fun. Parent/caregiver attendance is required.
 
 
Dennis Allen Dietz
 

Dennis Allen Dietz, 81, of Polk City, died at his home on Feb. 11, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 28, at Memorial Services of Iowa, (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny). Burial will take place at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery, honoring his distinguished military service.

Dennis was born on Sept. 13, 1944, in Hays, Kansas. A lifelong learner and leader, he earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law. 

On May 27, 1965, Dennis married Sheila Gayle (Hallagin) Dietz, beginning a 60-year partnership filled with love, laughter and service to others.

Dennis devoted nearly four decades to military service with passion and integrity. He first served as an enlisted Marine, deploying to Japan and Vietnam where he worked in explosive ordnance disposal. His military journey continued with the Army National Guard, where, in 2004, he was deployed to Kosovo to ensure fair compensation for local landowners affected by military operations. Dennis rose through the ranks to become colonel and head of the Judge Advocate General Corps at Camp Dodge. Upon his retirement, he was promoted to Brigadier General, concluding a remarkable 38-year career of service to his country.

In addition to his military service, Dennis built a respected career in law and public service. He spent 20 years as in-house counsel for Mutual Benefit Life before taking roles with the Iowa League of Cities and the Iowa Finance Authority. At the state level, he oversaw the Title Guarantee Division and low-income housing initiatives, later serving as a lobbyist where his insight and integrity earned the respect of colleagues across the state.

Dennis was deeply devoted to his community, generously giving his time and expertise to numerous organizations, including the Ames School Board, the Johnston Rotary Club, the Polk City Planning and Zoning Commission, the Kosovo Consulate in Des Moines, the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, and the North Polk Comet Cupboard Food Pantry. 

He was known for his ability to “fix” nearly anything — mechanical, electronic or human — and for his boundless curiosity, often found with a nonfiction book in hand.

Above all, Dennis cherished his family. He took immense pride and joy in his children and grandchildren, and, this past December, he was delighted to spend time with all 17 family members together in San Diego, a time he deeply treasured.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Sheila Dietz; his children, Annette Dietz (Jeffrey Schlimgen), Michelle Dietz (Andrew Cox), Aaron Dietz (Pei Lin), and Suzanne Dietz (Kyle Honnig); his grandchildren, Owen, Wyatt, Vivian, Nathan, Elena, Emory and Sydney; and his sister, Vicki Krehbiel (Larry Krehbiel).

Memorials are suggested to the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum or to the North Polk Comet Cupboard Food Pantry at https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z7AC/home.

 

Polk County Conservation events

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

  • Winter Hike at Jester Park: Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m. to noon and 1-2 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Bundle up and let’s head outdoors to hike the trail around the pond. We’ll learn how animals survive the long cold winter as we try to stay warm ourselves. Dress for being outdoors. Free, all ages welcome.
  • Chinese New Year: Sunday, Feb. 22, 10:30 a.m. to noon and 12:30-2 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Come join us for this popular celebration of the Chinese New Year. It’s the year of the horse! During this program we will learn all about the history of the Chinese New Year, similarities between Chinese zodiac and western astrology, and of course, horses. Shadow Fist Kung Fu will be back again for a live lion dance and kung fu demonstration. Registration required by Feb. 21
  • Sunset Flow Yoga: Monday, Feb. 23, 6-7 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Take time to unwind as the sun sets inside the Great Hall or patio (in summer months) of the Jester Park Nature Center with instructor Deanna Black. This all-levels yoga class that flows from one posture to another enhancing strength and balance then finishes with holding positions for flexibility and relaxation. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with Unity Point Health. Items to bring: yoga mat, comfortable clothing and water bottle. Ages 12+ Registration required by the day before.
  • Story Tellebration: Wednesday, Feb. 25, 10-10:30 a.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join volunteer storyteller Carmen Epstein for a fun, interactive tale tailored toward children ages 2-6 that explores the wonders of the outdoors. During each program, participants enjoy interactive stories and an activity. Free, no registration required. February topic: Owl Moon.
 

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Des Moines Community Orchestra Winter Concert
Sunday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
Staplin Performing Arts Center, 3650 Woodland Ave., West Des Moines
Enjoy the Des Moines Community Orchestra’s Winter Concert featuring guest conductor Joshua Barlage and featured soloist Curtis Barr, cello.

Des Moines Art Center Museum Highlights Tour
Saturdays, 1-2 p.m.
Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines
Discover the vast variety of the Des Moines Art Center’s permanent collections during the Museum Highlights Tour. This tour offers a unique journey through the galleries, featuring a selection of timeless paintings, sculptures and more. Join knowledgeable guides to uncover the stories, techniques and inspirations behind the art on view, and experience the highlights of the Art Center in a fresh and engaging way. This guided tour is perfect for art enthusiasts of all ages. Free to all, no registration required.

Tea and Talk Series
Saturdays, Feb. 21, 28 and March 7, 2 p.m.
Terrace Hill Drawing Room, 2300 Grand Ave., Des Moines
The Terrace Hill Partnership presents the Tea and Talk series. Guests will hear from local speakers who will cover topics centered around arts and culture, conservation and gardening, historic architecture, and book publishing and illustration. Speakers will give short presentations in Terrace Hill’s Drawing Room. Tickets are $10 per program or $35 for a season pass. The speakers are donating their time, and all proceeds will benefit the gardens of Terrace Hill. Tickets are available on Eventbrite at https://thteatalkseries2026.eventbrite.com or by calling the Terrace Hill office at 515-281-7205. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

  • Feb. 21: Aaron Harpold, director of horticulture, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, A Stroll Through the Seasons at The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.
  • Feb. 28: Scott Allen, historic practice leader, OPN Architects, Terrace Hill - B.F. Allen Greenhouse Reconstruction.
  • March 7: Susan Schmid and Tara Gartin, author and illustrator of No Company for Christmas, Turning Terrace Hill into a Book.

2026 CITYVIEW Chocolate Walk at West Glen
Friday, Feb. 27, 5-9 p.m.
The Breakfast Club, 5525 Mills Civic Parkway, Suite 100, West Des Moines
Like chocolate? Like chocolate drinks? Then you’ll love this event. CITYVIEW and West Glen Town Center again bring the Chocolate Walk to West Glen Town Center. For a ticket price of $25 ($35 at the door), attendees will receive 10 drink tickets that can be redeemed for sample cocktails at participating venues and will receive chocolate treat samples. Make it a date night or a night out with friends. Look for more details at chocolatewalk.dmcityview.com.

Lionel Bart’s “Oliver! JR.”
Weekends from Feb. 20 to March 8, Fridays 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 2 p.m.
CAP Theatre, 201 First Ave. S., Altoona
The streets of Victorian England will come to life when CAP Theatre presents the musical “Oliver! JR.,” based on the novel “Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens and adapted from the full-length musical by Lionel Bart — who wrote the book, music and lyrics.This beloved production follows a trusting young orphan named Oliver Twist as he searches for a place where he truly belongs. Ticket prices range from $12–$18. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.captheatre.org.

2026 MS Moments Orange Gala
Saturday, Feb. 28, 4:45 p.m.
Vibrant Music Hall, 2938 Grand Prairie Parkway, Waukee
The Orange Gala is MS Moment's premier event dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds for MS Moments, a 100% volunteer-led organization committed to supporting Iowa families affected by multiple sclerosis. This impactful evening brings together influencers, philanthropists and advocates for an unforgettable experience. The evening will feature speakers, inspiring stories, delicious food and exclusive entertainment, creating a memorable and meaningful celebration of community and support. More information available at www.catchdesmoines.com/event/2026-ms-moments-orange-gala/54873/.

 
 
Beat the winter blues with a childhood classic
 

(Family Features) If a cold snap has you feeling blue, turn back the clock and warm up the kitchen with a kid-friendly favorite the whole family can enjoy. Mac and cheese is a staple in households across the country, and this version with made-from-scratch sauce will leave your loved ones asking for more.

To make it a full-blown meal, pair simple skillet mac and cheese with grilled or pan-seared chicken to forget about the weather with time together.

Visit Culinary.net to find more comfort food classics.

Simple skillet mac and cheese
Recipe adapted from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 3 1/2 cups water, plus extra if needed
  • 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk, divided
  • 12 ounces pasta shells
  • salt, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small chunks
  • ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  • In nonstick skillet over high heat, bring water, 1 cup evaporated milk and shells to simmer. Season with salt, to taste. Cook, stirring, until pasta is tender and liquid thickens, 9-12 minutes.
  • In small bowl, whisk remaining evaporated milk, cornstarch and dry mustard. Stir into skillet. Continue simmering until slightly thickened, about 1 minute.
  • Remove skillet from heat. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in batches, adding water to adjust consistency. Stir in butter then season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

 
 

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

 
 

In the current issue of North Polk Living magazine:

'I do"

Residents share their marriage proposal stories

Couples often celebrate the milestones of their relationships: the day they met, their wedding, anniversaries … And the date of their engagement is often a highlight: an event often given much thought and planning. An occasion of romance, joy and anticipation of the journey ahead.

[...]

 
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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