Kiwanis scholarships awarded — This and more in this week's issue!

‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Best graduation gifts

What was the best high school graduation gift you remember receiving? You might have to think about your answer for a moment, or you can take the easy way out and say “cash.” But, for the actual gifts you received, what were the most memorable ones?

I remember one thoughtful family buying me a large duffle bag, and I used it for many years until the zipper finally broke. Regardless of what a student does after high school, a duffle bag always seems to come in handy.

I was saving my cash gifts to buy a typewriter, but then my aunt gave me her manual one. It was heavy and clunky, but it worked just fine to type my college papers — and I made a few bucks typing some for my friends, too.

One of the funniest gifts I received as a high school graduation gift was a giant laundry bag with the following words sewed on it: “Hi, Mom, I’m home!” Mom likely didn’t find it as amusing, but I did jam that bag full of dirty laundry on my many trips back home.

Speaking of laundry, another great graduation gift was a roll of quarters, which came in handy for those coin-operated laundry machines. They may all be coinless now, but I have a feeling quarters will still come in handy.

I also received a certificate for an oil change. Living in a small town, I didn’t put many miles on my car. But, once I was off to college, I was amazed how quickly they racked up. I could have used a bunch of those.

You can’t go wrong with quick food ideas, and despite the growth of microwave popcorn even in my day, a good, old-fashioned popcorn popper was still a hit.

Several years ago, when we had many graduation parties to attend, my wife decided to do something different and had monogrammed bath towels made for each graduate. It seemed a bit odd to me at the time, but I have been amazed how many of those graduates told me years later that they were still using them.

How about you? What were some of the best graduation gifts you received — or gave? 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

Scholarships awarded

Kiwanis Co-Presidents Al Burrows and Brandon Converse awarded Kiwanis of Polk City $1,000 scholarships to three students at the North Polk School's recent 2025 Scholarship Awards Night.

Morgan Meiners accepts her award.

Ali Lundgren accepts her award.

Sophia Campbell accepts her award.

Garage sale and bake sale

The Sheldahl United Methodist Church, 609 6th St., Sheldahl, will host its garage sale and bake sale on Saturday, June 7, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free coffee and bottled water. Visit Slater Main Street from 7:30-11:30 a.m. for the Vendor Market and Junk in the Trunk.

Upcoming events

Polk City Farmers Market, Thursdays, through June 27, 4:30-8 p.m., 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.

Citywide Garage Sale, June 6-7. Get ready to hunt for treasures or clean out your garage. This community-wide sale is a great way to recycle, reuse and connect with neighbors.

Summer Kick-Off with Polk City Police, Friday, June 6, 6-8 p.m., location TBA. Join the Polk City Police Officers Association for a family-friendly evening to welcome summer with fun activities and community spirit.

Polk City Classic Golf Tournament, Thursday, June 27, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spend the day on the greens supporting local efforts while enjoying camaraderie and competition.

Four Seasons Festival, June 28-29, at the Town Square. Cap off the season with Polk City's biggest celebration, featuring live entertainment, food, kids activities and more.

Vacation Bible School Road Trip

Come join Polk City United Methodist Church, 1421 W. Broadway St., from Sunday, June 22, to Wednesday, June 25, 6-8 p.m., for a week with fun, games, and learning about God. With our road trip theme, we will be creating some cars to race on our final night and have a surprise food truck come and visit. Our mission focus this year is to collect clothes for area shelters that are low on their supplies. To register, go to https://polkcityumc.breezechms.com/form/4b64f5605735 or go to the church's website.

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

Announcements: The library will close at noon on Friday, June 27, and will be closed Saturday, June 28. Come and see us at the Four Seasons Festival.
Movie Mondays, June 9, 16 and 23, 10 a.m. Each Monday, we will be showing a family movie in the library multi-purpose room. June 9, “Wreck-It Ralph”; June 16, “Jumanji”; June 23, “Frozen - Sing-Along.”
Thursday Summer Performers Series
• June 12, 10 a.m., at Polk City Community Center in City Hall, Magician David Casas (sponsored by Mi-Fiber) provides family-friendly entertainment for audiences of all ages. • June 19, 10 a.m. at Luana Bank Community Room (use north entrance), Dinosaur Dimensions (sponsored by Luana Savings Bank). Children of all ages will meet dinosaurs (an amazing collection of realistic puppets) in this top-notch stage-style show.
• June 27, 6 p.m at Polk City Community Center in City Hall, Game Show Party (sponsored by Fareway). Join host Denny Ray Burn for fun, games and prizes. Game shows were at the start of television and have never gone away. Join the "live studio audience" for all the excitement of knowledge, skill and chance. Make a match, hit the buzzer, have a lucky guess or choose the right deal to go home with great memories and prizes.

Polk County Conservation events

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

Edible Outdoors, Tuesday, June 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Ever wonder what those pesky weeds in your yard are good for? Come take a walk on the wild edibles side. You’ll learn to identify the common, edible plants around you and get a few new recipes to try at home. We will prepare and sample a variety of edible plants so come with a sense of adventure. Register by June 8 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDMyMDA=.
Older, Wiser, Livelier, Seniors - Pollination Celebration, Wednesday, June 11, 1-2 p.m., Easter Lake Park, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. A third of our global food supply depends on pollinators. Do you know what they are and the threats they face? This program will describe how pollination works and the actions you can take to help pollinators in your own yard. Looking for an excuse to get out of the house, make some new friends, and learn about the exciting world of nature? Then join in. No registration required.
Toddler Tales, Friday, June 13, 10-10:30 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m., Easter Lake Park, Athene North Shore Event Building, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. 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 dragonflies.
Sunset Paddle at Easter Lake, Friday, June 13, 7:30-9 p.m., Easter Lake Park, Athene North Shore Event Building, 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines. Enjoy 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. Meet outside of the Easter Lake Event Center. Bring a water and dress in clothes and sturdy shoes you do not mind getting wet. Registration required by the day before event at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2Nzg5Mjg=.
Kayak Basics, Saturday, June 14, 1-3 p.m., Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Learn the basics of kayaking. Learn about gear, technique and safety before hitting the water to practice your skills. All equipment provided. Dress to get wet, wear sturdy water shoes, and bring a towel. Registration required by June 11 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDMyODU=.
Turtles and Snakes: Cold-Blooded Truths, Sunday, June 15, 2-3 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Explore the world of reptiles in this program focused on snakes and turtles found in Iowa. Learn about common myths and what to do if you happen to encounter these animals in the wild. Discover where you're most likely to spot them — and, best of all, get the chance to meet some live reptile ambassador animals up close.
Hike for Health at Fort Des Moines Park, Monday, June 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Fort Des Moines Park, 7200 S.E. Fifth St., Des Moines. 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. Enjoy the camaraderie and explore some new trails. Registration required by June 15 at https://secure.rec1.com/IA/polk-county-ia/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM2MDMzMDc=.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Des Moines Community Band 2025 Summer Concert Series - The Music of John Williams
Various dates and locations
The Greater Des Moines Community Band announces the schedule for its 2025 summer
concert series, “The Music of John Williams.” Summer Concert selections run the gamut from movie themes to music for major athletic events.

June 9, 7 p.m.: Edencrest at Kettlestone, 805 S.E. Tallgrass Lane, Waukee
June 16, 7 p.m.: Spurgeon Manor, 1204 Linden St., Dallas Center
June 23, 7 p.m.: Walnut Ridge, 1701 Campus Drive, Clive

DMPA Free Outdoor Family Events
Various dates and parks
Des Moines Performing Arts announced the engagements headed to Des Moines as part of its 2025 Free Outdoor Family Events series. These free presentations are designed to engage new audiences and performing arts enthusiasts alike, while also removing the barrier of cost. For more information including times and park locations, visit www.desmoinesperformingarts.org/whats-on/series/free-outdoor-family-events.

June 14-17: Bindlestiff Family Circus, parks across the metro
July 21-22: Dupont Brass, parks across the metro
June 11, July 9, Aug. 13: Storytime Under the Green Umbrella, Cowles Commons
June 21, July 12, Aug. 23: Dancing on Cowles Commons

‘Light Within Ourselves: Haitian Art in Iowa’
Through Sunday, Sept. 7
Des Moines Art Center, A.H. Blank Gallery, 4700 Grand Ave., Des Moines
This exhibition explores the vibrant diversity of Haitian artwork, featuring paintings, metalwork, sculpture and drapos (beaded and sequined banners). The exhibition is accompanied by a complimentary 16-page gallery guide, featuring colorful artworks, a history of the WCA’s Haitian art collection, and a description of the themes and symbols often depicted in Haitian artwork. The gallery guide has been translated into Haitian Kreyòl, the first language of nearly 11 million people worldwide.

Earlham concert series
Every Sunday until Aug. 10, except July 6, 6 p.m.
Earlham City Park, Earlham
The Levitt Amp Earlham Music Series starts with an opening act around 6 p.m. and a headliner around 7:15 p.m. Lots of kids activities and food trucks will be offered as well. The concerts are free.

June 8: Gallivant, Kerry Koberg
June 15: Denita, Ultra Violet Fever
June 22: Hector Anchondo, Weary Ramblers

Iowa Craft Brew Festival
Saturday, June 7, 1-4 p.m.
Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Iowa Brewers Guild announces the return of the annual Iowa Craft Brew Festival. Each festival ticket includes unlimited samples, a commemorative tasting glass and access to the spacious festival grounds with shade tents, vendors, yard games and a variety of Iowa-based food trucks. The Iowa Craft Brew Festival features the best in Iowa beer but will also highlight craft cideries and a growing offering of Iowa-produced non-alcoholic beverages. One hundred percent of the festival’s revenue goes to help support Iowa’s craft beer industry and IBG’s Brewed in Iowa campaign that helps raise awareness about the local impact of breweries in Iowa communities. Information and links to purchase tickets are available at www.iowacraftbrewfestival.com

Vendor Market
Saturdays, June 7 and 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Outlets of Des Moines, 801 Bass Pro Drive, Suite 315, Altoona
Each show has a variety of vendors from Avon, essential oils, Tupperware, Freeze Dried Candies, honey, 3D, Tastefully Simple, Gems & Crystals, Scentsy plus others. Come check out the vendors and buy local. If interested in being a vendor, email k2marketplacemagic@gmail.com.

Music Under the Stars
Every Sunday from June 8 to July 6.
Music Under the Stars is thrilled to unveil its 2025 Summer concert series, featuring the return of Music Director and Conductor Vince Kenney and a lineup of talented guest soloists and vocalists. Concerts are free to the public, inviting music lovers of all ages to gather and enjoy live concert and jazz band performances under the stars.

June 8: Pirate Songs and Love Songs. Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines. Set sail on an enchanting musical voyage with guest soloist Will Baker, bass trombonist with the Chicago Lyric Opera, and jazz vocalist Marisa Cravero.
June 15: Once Upon a Father’s Day: Music for Dads and Their Princesses. Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines. Celebrate fatherhood and fairy tales with the soaring soprano of Abby Kate Boeschen and the beloved vocals of Gina Gedler.
June 22: Historic Hoyt Sherman Place. Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines. A night of classics and nostalgia featuring trumpet virtuoso Andy Classen and powerhouse vocalist Tina Haase-Findlay.
June 29: Let Freedom Ring. Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave, Des Moines. Kick off Independence Day festivities with stirring patriotic music. Enjoy featured oboe soloist Jennifer Wohlenhaus Bloomberg and rising star Napoleon Douglas.

Upgrade summer lunches with nutritious twists on grilled cheese

(Family Features) When the kids are home for summer break, meal-prep becomes a must for busy families to ensure nutritious foods are on the menu. This summer, give your kiddos the fuel they need for all their warm-weather activities and adventures with a healthy twist on a childhood classic.

One bite into a grilled cheese sandwich and you’re back in your childhood kitchen, bringing all the nostalgic vibes you can pass down to your little ones. Plus, with nearly endless combinations, there’s a solution for everyone from classics to creative versions.
Serve up more delicious, kid-friendly lunches this summer by visiting HealthyFamilyProject.com.

Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard
4 slices whole-grain bread
2 slices provolone cheese
10-12 blackberries, cut in half

Directions:

Heat medium skillet over low heat.
In small bowl, mix mayonnaise and mustard; spread on one side of each slice of bread.
Place bread mayo-side-down in skillet. Top with cheese and blackberries. Add second slice of bread mayo-side-up.
Cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

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:

PAMPERED PETS

Residents share how they go the extra mile to spoil their critters

Many pet owners view their animal companions as part of the family — deserving of the best care, lots of attention, and at least a few perks. Besides the usual walks, pet beds and toys, some of these pampered pets get extra special treatment: pup cups from drive-throughs, birthday parties, paw soaks and a special place in those important days of their owners’ lives — as well as in their hearts.

[...]

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

This email was sent to: beckhammiller1@icloud.com

Big Green Umbrella Media, Inc.
8101 Birchwood Ct Suite D
Johnston, Iowa 50131

Edit Profile

Unsubscribe

Report as Spam