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Remembering 'Jaws' and that ominous theme music

Have you ever seen the movie, “Jaws”? If so, have you watched it again lately?

I watched it many years ago. It certainly wasn’t at the theater, as I would have been 6 years old when it was released in 1975. But, somewhere along the line, I did see it. More than likely, it was a few years later in the made-for-TV version. I may have also rented a VHS tape or saw it on HBO at a friend’s house. I’m not sure. Regardless, even with an ocean nowhere near by, that film caused me to cautiously enter any body of water for years to come.

If you don’t know by now, “Jaws” was released 50 years ago, and some fans of the movie have been celebrating the anniversary with watch parties and nostalgic events related to the summer blockbuster film of its day. Interest in the original 1974 book by Peter Benchley has also experienced a surge. Keep in mind, “Jaws” was the highest-grossing film of all time until the release of “Star Wars” two years later.

Although I may not have seen the film at its release, I do remember the classic movie poster with the giant shark nosing its way up in the ocean toward a naked woman swimming. Even at 6 years old, that caught my attention. I remember that poster image on T-shirts seemingly everywhere at the time, too. Roger Kastel created the iconic poster, as well as the one for “The Empire Strikes Back.” Take the movie title off of the “Jaws” poster and most everyone could still name the film. Try that with any other movie poster, especially today.
Of course, the movie title was ingenious, too. What other single word could summarize the fear of sharks better and make millions of people think twice before dipping their toes in the ocean — or any water? Yes, director Steven Spielberg was, and at age 78 still is, a movie-making master.

But maybe the most identifiable aspect of the “Jaws” movie is the music score of only two notes by the illustrious John Williams. The score apparently was not well received by Spielberg, who initially thought it was a joke. Williams then explained to him, “The sophisticated approach you would like me to take isn't the approach you took with the film I just experienced.” Spielberg eventually agreed, and Williams earned an Academy Award for Best Original Score. Even for people today who never saw the movie, that ominous two-note ostinato clearly signifies approaching danger.

“Jaws” had a budget of $9 million and box office sales alone of $477.9 million. It was clearly a phenomenal success. Unfortunately, it had three awful sequels, including “Jaws 3-D” that I did see in a theater in 1983. I won’t be seeking out that film, but I am going to catch the original again and may even read the book. And, for at least a few years, I will likely be avoiding the ocean.

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 Farmers Market

Enjoy the Polk City Farmers Market on Thursdays, through Sept. 25, 4:30-8 p.m., at the Town Square. The weekly Farmers Market brings local produce, handmade goods, food trucks and live music to the heart of Polk City. Come stroll the square, meet vendors and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming vibe each Thursday evening.

LifeServe Blood Drive

LifeServe will hold a blood drive on Saturday, July 26, 9 a.m. to noon, at the parking lot on the corner of West Broadway Street and South Fourth Street, Polk City. It is sponsored by Polk City Eastern Star. Sign up at LifeServe’s website, www.lifeservebloodcenter.org, or by calling LifeServe at 1-800-287-4903.

Coming up at the Polk City Community Library

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

Geri-Fit Strength Training Workouts, Monday, July 7, 9 a.m.
Movie Monday, Monday, July 7, 10 a.m.
Chair Yoga, Tuesday, July 8, 9 a.m.
Lil Comets Summer Story Time, Tuesday, July 8, 10 a.m.
Adult Crafternoon, Tuesday, July 8, 2 p.m.
Women’s Coffee, Wednesday, July 9, 10 a.m.
Sit and Stitch, Thursday, July 10, 6 p.m.
Men’s Coffee, Friday, July 11, 10 a.m.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Dutch Oven Cooking, Tuesday, July 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Thomas Mitchell Park Shelter No. 1, 4590 N.E. 108th St., Mitchellville. From basic cobblers to layered dinners and decadent desserts, a Dutch oven is the perfect addition to any outdoor cook's collection. Whether at the campsite or in the backyard, Dutch ovens help you create mouth-watering, delicious slow-cooked meals. Bring your appetite as we cook and sample a variety of foods. Ages 14 and older. Registration required by July 6 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDM5MDE=.
Horse Whispers in the Woods, Thursday, July 10, 6 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. A women’s circle of self-discovery through the intuitive and healing power of horses. This on-the-ground workshop provides a real-time experience in relationship skills and increased emotional intelligence through a partnership with the horse. Registration required 24 hours prior to event: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/jesterparkec/items/?flow=19203&full-items=yes.
Sunset Paddle at Easter Lake, Athene North Shore Recreation Area Event Building, Easter Lake Park, 2830, Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Friday, July 11, and Wednesday, July 23, 7:30-9 p.m. Join us for a relaxing evening on the lake. Learn the basics of kayaking before hitting the water to explore Easter Lake and watch the sunset on the water. All equipment will be provided. We will meet outside of the Easter Lake Event Center at the listed start time. Bring a water, and dress in clothes and sturdy shoes you do not mind getting wet. Registration required by the day before.
Guided Trail Rides, Jester Park Equestrian Center, Jester Park, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Saturday, July 12, and Friday, July 25, 9:30 a.m. Come saddle up and join us in the great outdoors for a scenic trail ride. You will be guided by knowledgeable wranglers and taken care of by a string of beginner-friendly horses. Ride through the timber of Jester Park and take in the picturesque views. Registration required.
Picnic with the Turtles, Thomas Mitchell Park, Shelter No. 1, 4590 N.E. 108th St., Mitchellville. Saturday, July 12, 11 a.m. to noon. Meet a naturalist at Thomas Mitchell Park for a fun and educational afternoon with the resident box turtles. You’re invited to pack a picnic lunch while a naturalist introduces you to these fascinating creatures, sharing interesting facts about their habitat, diet and behavior. Get up close and personal with the box turtles as they enjoy their own lunch. Observe these gentle animals as they roam and forage, and learn about their unique characteristics.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Magic of the Night Parade and Market
Friday, July 11
Drake neighborhood, Kingman Boulevard and 28th Street, Des Moines
www.dna.wildapricot.org/Art-night
The Drake neighborhood in Des Moines creates creatures of the night puppets to participate in the parade. The evening will also feature another Night Market with an eclectic mix of vendors, culinary delights and captivating entertainment, culminating in a mesmerizing lantern puppet parade down Kingsman Boulevard.

Des Moines Botanical Garden Music in the Garden Series
909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
www.dmbotanicalgarden.com
Enjoy live music in the beautiful setting of the Des Moines Botanical Garden. Upcoming concerts are: July 17: Flash in a Pan; July 24: The Crowfoot Rakes; July 31: Mango Soul.

Goodguys 34th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals
Friday, July 4 to Monday, July 7
Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines
www.good-guys.com
A weekend with more than 5,000 of the Midwest’s finest 1999 and older hot rods, trucks, customs, muscle cars and classics.

Ankeny Summerfest
Friday, July 11 to Sunday, July 13
The District at Prairie Trail, 1500 S.W. Main St., Ankeny
www.ankenysummerfest.com
Activities at Ankeny’s community celebration include carnival rides, parade, live entertainment, fireworks show and plenty more. The weekend is packed full of musical performances that the entire family can enjoy.

National Balloon Classic
July 25 to Aug. 2
Memorial Balloon Field, 1136 150th Ave., Indianola
www.nationalballoonclassic.com
Enjoy morning and evening balloon launches and the sight of colorful hot air balloons floating in the sky. Watch the competition and enjoy a variety of entertainment offered during The Classic.

Waukee Arts Festival
July 18-19
Centennial Park, 1255 Warrior Lane, Waukee
Visit 140 vendor booths in the largest Waukee Arts Festival to date. Food and beverage trucks, The Waukee Fine Arts Footrace and numerous live bands are planned. For a full schedule of events, list of artists and festival updates, visit www.waukeeartsfestival.org.

Clive Festival
Friday, July 18, to Saturday, July 19
Greenbelt near the Aquatic Center
Mark your calendars for Clive's biggest (and best) community event. Enjoy free live music, Thunder Over Clive Fireworks, bounce houses, activities for kids, food trucks, Kids Art Expo, the Clive Running Festival, Clive Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, Touch a Truck, Cardboard Boat Regatta at Clive Aquatic Center, and more. Check the Clive Festival Facebook page for details.

Cheesy, comforting chicken

(Culinary.net) A quick and easy way to get comfort food on your dinner table is this recipe for cheesy baked mushroom chicken. Add some green beans and mashed cauliflower for a well-rounded meal for your family.

For more comfort food recipes, visit Culinary.net.

Cheesy baked mushroom chicken

Ingredients:

Nonstick cooking spray
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup flour
4 tablespoons butter
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Directions:

Heat oven to 375 F. Prepare baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cut each chicken breast in half. Place flour in resealable bag. Place chicken in resealable bag with flour; toss to coat.
In large skillet, melt butter. Add chicken to skillet; brown all sides. Transfer chicken from skillet to 11-by-7-inch baking dish.
In skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms in remaining butter until softened. Add chicken broth, salt and pepper. Bring to boil, then cook 5 minutes. Spoon over chicken.
Bake 15 minutes. Sprinkle with cheeses and green onions. Bake 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

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