SHOW CHOIR PERFORMS — This and more in this week's issue!

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Feb. 13-19, 2026

Don't carry a cold in your pocket

The hanky. Not one-half of what Tommy James and the Shondells so famously sang about in their 1966 No. 1 hit song, but rather that piece of cloth that has been tucked away in pockets for centuries.

A fashion statement for some, a nose-wiping necessity for others, the hanky served multiple purposes. Short for handkerchief, the hanky has sustained much of our history and likely will, to some degree, for generations to come.

I have had a cold lately. Congestion. Runny nose. You know the symptoms. My olfactory has been like an open faucet, causing me to continually reach for a tissue or two — or 10. It’s not pleasant.

All this tissue time got me thinking about the hanky. My dad carried one with him every day. So did my grandpa. They had their work hankies, and they had their dress hankies. My grandma and my mother washed — and ironed — them all.

In the post-COVID world we now live in, the idea of sharing a hanky seems crazy, but that’s exactly what would happen. I remember Dad wiping my nose with his hanky. We didn’t carry tissues around back then, so it was either the hanky or a shirt sleeve. Then, I got my own hanky. A proud boyhood ritual.

Hankies have a much deeper history and usage. According to The Complete Handkerchief History, archaeological evidence in China from 1000 BC shows figurines from the Chou dynasty holding pieces of cloth. Romans waved hankies in the air at public games and used them as the “starting gun” for chariot races. Hankies were also found in Middle Eastern culture and were used to preserve the sacred, bandage wounds and hold coins.

Hankies and romance were also linked. A knight would tie a lady’s handkerchief to the back of his helmet as a token of good luck. A maiden would toss her handkerchief from a window as a declaration of love. A woman might send a homemade hankie, embroidered with patterns, to her love interest to be kept as a token.

Hankies seemed to be forever tied at the hips of humans. Mass-produced cotton hankies made them seemingly everywhere in the early 20th century. Then came the global flu pandemic of 1918, and Kleenex soon coined the fearful slogan “Don’t carry a cold in your pocket” to discourage hankies and promote their new disposable facial tissues. The rest, as they say, is history.

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

Show choir performs

The Nexus North Polk High School Show Choir performed for parents recently.

Kiwanis Senior of the Month

Dylan Tyler Twedt has been named one of the Seniors of the Month by the Polk City Kiwanis Club.

“I live on my family’s farm located between Polk City and Alleman. I have two older brothers, Kendall and Tanner. Growing up on the farm gave me opportunities to learn responsibility and how to work hard. It also gave me an appreciation for agriculture and the impact it has in our community, which is why I plan to attend Iowa State University next year to major in Agronomy. Off the farm, I am actively involved in FFA and enjoy running track and playing soccer for North Polk. I’ve also been involved in 4-H for the past nine years, showing pigs and my horse at the county fair.”

Dylan’s parents are Craig and Cindy Twedt. Dylan is a member of the National Honor Society and on the Gold Honor Roll. After graduation, he plans to attend Iowa State University and major in agronomy.

Polk City Public Library news

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

Adult Coloring: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 5-7 p.m. Colored pencils and gel pens will be provided. Ages 17 and older.
Puzzle Swap: Saturday, Feb. 14, 10 a.m. to noon. Donate puzzles Feb. 1-13 and receive credit for each puzzle you donate. Redeem your credits on Feb. 14.
Messy Munchkins: Thursday, Feb. 19, 10-11 a.m. This fun-filled program invites little ones to dive into sensory play with squishy, splattery activities. Dress them in old clothes and watch as they explore, create, and get delightfully messy in a safe environment.
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, 1-2:30p.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.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Women in the Woods with Wine - Archery and Axes: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7-9 p.m., Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Learn the basics of archery and axe throwing on an indoor range. We’ll cover eye dominance, archery safety rules, equipment and proper shooting techniques using a compound bow. This program is for women ages 21 and older who are interested in getting outside. Become more comfortable and knowledgeable about the natural world as you unwind and have fun. Registration required by Feb. 15.
Out in Nature at Easter Lake: Friday, Feb. 20, 10-11 a.m., Easter Lake Event Center, Easter Lake Park, 2830, Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Come on out to Easter Lake with a sense of adventure. We’ll learn how to observe and study changes in nature as we explore, play and investigate. The program will meet at the Event Center, but will be mostly outdoors. Come prepared for the weather. Adults are expected to stay and actively participate with their children/students. Free, no registration required.
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.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

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.

Bright Nights and Green Sights
Various dates
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
Explore ways to “find your true nature” at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. For tickets visit https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.

Dome After Dark: Friday evenings through March 27, 6-10 p.m. Extra evenings Saturdays, Feb. 14 and March 14, and Tuesday through Thursday, March 17-19. Experience the Botanical Garden in a whole new light. Explore the warm tropical conservatory and renovated Gardeners Show House, illuminated for a magical after-hours escape.
NEW to Dome After Dark: Igloo Experience: Cozy up with up to five guests for an enchanting igloo experience, complete with admission to the event and Flora concessions. Perfect for friends, family or date night. Visit https://dmbotanicalgarden.com to reserve an igloo.
Friday Dinner at Flora: Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. Reserve your spot now for a delicious three-course dinner at Flora, including admission to Dome After Dark. Each week a new, enticing menu showcases a variety of cuisines. Reserve a table online, https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Learn on Saturdays: Saturdays through Feb. 28, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., join the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for its weekly educational lecture series presented by experts from across the state of Iowa. Purchase tickets online, https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Botanical Blues: Sundays through March 29, noon to 4 p.m. Performances begin at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Your favorite Sunday Blues in Des Moines is here to keep away your winter blues every week. Each set lasts one hour, with a one-hour intermission in between. Settle in, grab a drink, and soak up the sound in Iowa’s only tropical music venue. Flora serves Sunday brunch beginning at 10 a.m. — perfect before the music starts. Concerts are held live in the conservatory, and guests are welcome to wander the indoor gardens during the show. Ticket info and lineups available at https://dmbotanicalgarden.com.

Des Moines Home and Garden Show
Thursday, Feb. 12 to Sunday, Feb. 15
Iowa Events Center, 730 Third St., Des Moines
The largest home show in Des Moines, this show features landscaping companies, remodeling contractors, interior design companies and more. See Craig Conover of Bravo’s Southern Charm and learn about his “Sewing Down South" home and lifestyle brand Feb. 13 and 14. Spring is in full bloom with blossoming trees and flowers at the Feature Gardens, created by top Des Moines area landscapers. Shop local at the Made in IOWA Market. All exhibitors in the Market have products made with love right here in Iowa. Don’t miss the Rose Farm Inspiration Stage for show stopping presentations ranging from Sourdough Pizza Making, to All Things Floral, and more. Tickets and event times at www.iowaeventscenter.com/events/detail/des-moines-home-garden-show-7.

Winter Blues Fest 2026
Friday, Feb. 13 and Saturday, Feb. 14
Downtown Des Moines Marriott, 700 Grand Ave., Des Moines
Two nights, 20 acts, all under one roof and out of the cold. Lineup information and tickets at https://cibs.org/2025/10/2026-winter-blues-fest/.

Iowa Beef Expo
Saturday, Feb. 14 to Sunday, Feb. 22
Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines
It’s the 2026 Iowa Beef Expo. Schedule can be found at https://iowabeefexpo.com/schedule/.

The Nadas Duo at The Ingersoll
Saturday, Feb. 21
3711 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines
The Ingersoll announces a new addition to its winter lineup: The Nadas Duo, featuring two intimate performances on Feb. 21. Celebrated folk-Americana act, The Nadas, have built a loyal following over more than three decades, earning acclaim for their engaging live shows and distinctive sound that blends 1970s-inspired “country honk,” raw alt-rock energy, and wistful folk melodies. This special duo performance brings the heart of the band to the stage, highlighting their exceptional songwriting and stripped-down musical chemistry.

Ports of Call, Music of The Mediterranean
Sunday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
Valley High School Staplin Auditorium, 3650 Woodland Ave., West Des Moines
The Des Moines Community Orchestra presents the 2026 50th Anniversary Season Winter Concert, Ports of Call, Music of The Mediterranean. With Guest Conductor Joshua Barlage, and cello soloist Curtis Barr. Admission is free but donations are always welcome.

Complement any game day with a crispy snack

(Family Features) With action heating up on the hardwood, a good game day host knows you can never have too many delicious snacks on hand. Kicking off the madness can be as easy as these Crispy Potato Skins, a hearty watch party classic that keeps fans fueled and engaged with the game on the big screen. Enjoy all the alley-oop action with more recipe inspiration at Culinary.net.

Crispy Potato Skins
Recipe adapted from S imply Recipes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

6 medium russet potatoes
extra-virgin olive oil
6 slices bacon
kosher salt, to taste
freshly ground pepper, to taste
shredded cheddar cheese
sour cream (optional)
thinly sliced green onions (optional)

Directions:

Heat oven to 400 F. Clean potatoes then pierce with fork.
Rub potatoes with olive oil then bake 1 hour until cooked through.
In frying pan over medium heat, cook bacon 10-15 minutes until crisp. Drain on paper towel-lined plate then crumble.
Cut cooked potatoes in half then scoop out insides, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato inside skins. Rub with olive oil then season with salt, to taste. Place on roasting pan and cook 10 minutes. Flip and cook 10 minutes.
Arrange potatoes skin-sides down and season with pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with cheese and crumbled bacon then broil 2 minutes.
Serve with sour cream and sliced green onions, if desired.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

WANTED: Stereo & 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:

BIG GAME, BIG PARTY

Capping off the football season with a watch party to remember

It’s time for the big game, and that’s the perfect reason to gather with your fellow fans around the big screen to see which team finishes the year with a championship ring. And you won’t be alone. Record-breaking viewership has been reported the last two years, with 127.7 million U.S. viewers last year, according to ESPN. Indeed, it isn’t hard to find football fanatics, though many will be disappointed that their favorite team won’t be playing Sunday, Feb. 8, at Levi’s Stadium.

[...]

Read the full digital issue

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