Ankeny Living - Iowa Living Magazines

Transcription

Living
Ankeny
february 2015
50021/50023
magazine
CHECK
it out!
THE HISTORY AND
EVOLUTION OF THE
ANKENY PUBLIC LIBRARY
STIR FRY
BIG GREEN
UMBRELLA MEDIA
5619 N.W. 86th St., # 600
Johnston, Iowa 50131
RECIPE
A HOME THAT’S THEIRS
POSTAL CUSTOMER
BIG GREEN
UMBRELLA MEDIA
WHERE WE LIVE
PAID
U.S. POSTAGE
MEET MELISSA BRENNER
PRSRT STD
ECRWSS
EDUCATION
www.iowalivingmagazines.com/ankeny
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
Brian L. Waggoner, M.D.
Robert A. Fornoff, M.D.
Amy K. Petersen, D.O.
Sally J. Twedt, C.P.N.P.
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
Julie A. Waggoner, C.P.N.P.
Sherri M. Chrisman-Batterson, C.P.N.P.
Andrea G. Dettmann-Spurgeon, C.P.N.P.
Samantha K. Schwenneker, C.P.N.P.
WELCOME
Turning pages
at the library
W
e live in a time of much change, especially in the realm of
technology. Just two or three decades ago, the Internet didn’t
exist, at least not to the average person. A “mobile” phone
was the size of a shoebox and was something only seen in limousines or
spy movies. And the most advanced feature on an automobile was cruise control.
Today 85 percent of the American population uses the Internet on a regular basis
for work, family and pleasure. Most homes
now have multiple computers, and many
individuals have several email addresses,
in addition to accounts with Facebook,
Twitter and an array of other social media.
More than 91 percent of Americans
now have cell phones. In fact, world
wide, more people have cell phones than
working toilets. What does that say? And
Americans are no longer satisfied with
using a phone to simply make calls. Today
56 percent own “smart phones” and are
accessing news, weather, music, games and more from these devices.
If you haven’t been inside a new car lately, you are in for a few surprises, too. The dashboards now resemble computers with flat screen displays
that offer services like global positioning service mapping (GPS), satellite
radio (Sirius) and hands-free phone communication (Bluetooth). It’s hard
to believe that we used to be impressed with power windows.
With all this change, it’s refreshing to see that some basic activities
remain mainstays, like reading a book or magazine. Reading is as popular
today as it ever has been, and this is quite visible at any number of local
libraries on a daily basis. That’s not to say that libraries haven’t changed
with the times, as they most certainly have “turned the page” in many ways.
But they are also truly rich in history.
In this month’s cover story, we look at the history of Ankeny’s library
that opened in 1961, thanks to a gift from the Kirkendall brothers, for
whom the library is named.
There’s certainly a lot we can all learn at the library, and we encourage
you to take full advantage of it.
Thanks for reading. Q
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Please call 1-877-695-1306 for lunch and a tour.
Shane Goodman
Publisher
Darren Tromblay
Editor
515-953-4822 ext. 304
[email protected]
Julie Downing
Advertising
515-681-5378
[email protected]
Iowa
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FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
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INSIDE
who says
print is dead?
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Our company continues to grow with
24 lifestyle magazines and more to come.
In five years, our readership has grown
from zero to nearly 300,000 monthly
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— Shane Goodman, publisher
Cover story
Check it out!
Calendar
A comprehensive list
12
Finance
Low oil prices
13
Page 5
Faith
Ashes
20
Senior living
Managing stress
22
Where we live
A home that’s theirs
24
Page 24
Garage
Pass it on
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Health Q & A
Advice from professionals
29
Education
Meet Melissa Brenner
Living
Iowa
magazines
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Recipe
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Page 29
Chamber
News of local events
On the cover: Sam Mitchel. Photo by Todd Rullestad.
PUBLISHER:
EDITOR:
SALES MANAGER:
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES:
Shane Goodman
Darren Tromblay
Jolene Goodman
Julie Downing
Dan Juffer
Brooke Pulliam
KK O’Neill
Christina Anderson
Marolynn Berrett
Janice Glandon
Annie Shelton
Kaylynn Coleman
DESIGN MGR:
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EDITORIAL ASSISTANT:
CONTRIBUTORS:
BUSINESS OFFICE MGR:
DISTRIBUTION:
DIGITAL:
ADDRESS: 5619 N.W. 86th St., Suite 600, Johnston, IA 50131
PHONE: 515.953.4822
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FAX: 515.953.1394
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Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
Circulation and readership
audited by
Ankeny Living magazine is a monthly publication of Big Green Umbrella Media, Inc., an Iowa corporation. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part
without permission of the publisher. Ankeny Living magazine is mailed free of charge to every household and business in the 50021/50023 zip codes.
Others may subscribe for $18 annually. Copies of past issues, as available, may be purchased for $3 each (plus shipping if required). Ankeny Living is
not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All letters and photos received become the property of the publisher.
4
Celeste Jones
Karen Ericson
Tyler Nash
Kathleen Summy
Ashley Rullestad
Patti Stockdale
Todd Rullestad
Amy Kort
Brent Antisdel
Brent Antisdel
Brian Olson
FEATURE
CHECK
it out!
THE HISTORY AND
EVOLUTION OF THE
KIRKENDALL PUBLIC LIBRARY
By Ashley Rullestad
or any bibliophile, the library
is the best place to stock up
on all their reading favorites.
In any community, the library can
also be a hub of activity — with
programs dedicated to learning
and literacy for kids, teens and
adults alike. In 1961, through a gift
from the Kirkendall brothers, the
Kirkendall Public Library opened.
Though the library has grown and
changed into something nearly
unrecognizable from those early
days, one thing remains constant:
The library is an important fixture
in the community.
F
The Kirkendall gift
Clarence and Lee Kirkendall were
brothers who lived together in a
house located at 210 S.W. Pleasant
St. Clarence had been married
as a young man, but his wife died
and they had no children. Lee
had never been married. Lee and
Clarence were farmers who had
accumulated farmland, bonds, cash
and other property during their
long lifetimes.
Sam Mitchel became director of the Kirkendall Public Library in May 2014. Photo by Todd Rullestad.
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
5
FEATURE
Clarence Kirkendall died on
Dec. 20, 1956, at the age of 78.
He had no will, so his share of
the brothers’ property passed to
Lee. At that time Lee did not have
a will, but he became aware of
the impact estate and inheritance
taxes could have upon a decedent’s estate. Lee consulted his
attorney, Francis Hall, in regard to
the disposition of his estate. Helen
Hall, Francis’ wife, was a publicspirited woman who felt that the
situation offered an opportunity
to benefit the Ankeny community and, at the same time, keep
the memory of the Kirkendall
bothers alive in the future. She
believed that Ankeny needed a
public library, so she suggested
that Lee Kirkendall should provide
funds to get one started.
Lee Kirkendall died on July 21,
1957, at the age of 84. The remainder of his estate, after payment of
all death expenses and distribution
of specific bequests, was left to
the town of Ankeny for the purpose of erecting, equipping and/
duties to get the library started.
Librarian Sherry Schlundt presents preschool story time at the library.
or maintenance of a public library
in Ankeny, to be supervised by
officials of the town.
The Town Council was, of
course, pleased to receive noti-
fication of the bequest, and set
about immediately to implement
Lee Kirkendall’s wishes. A library
board of trustees was appointed,
and the members went about their
1.33
A library is born
The United States census in 1950
counted a population in Ankeny
of 1,229. Rapid growth had just
started and has continued to the
present time. The 1960 census
counted 2,964 people in Ankeny.
This number entitled Ankeny to
be classified as a city. At the
time, however, growth around the
city’s perimeter was just starting. A few homes had been built
east of Ankeny Boulevard, there
was very little construction except
Parkview School north of First
Street, the city was just approaching State Street on the west, and
the Iowa State University farm
and John Deere plant effectively
blocked expansion to the south.
Finding a site for the library
became the most difficult and certainly the most time consuming,
problem that the library board
faced. The board then turned its
thoughts toward using a portion
of the town park as a library site.
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6
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
FEATURE
The park was, and is, located on the north side
of First Street just west of the Parkview school
building. It was 2.5 acres of land that had been
donated to Ankeny in 1910 by Henry Wagner
and had been officially named the “Henry
Wagner Park” in 1920.
The site was soon rejected, as was a site at
Third and Walnut Streets, as well as more than
a half a dozen other sites that were proposed.
At that time, Guy Kline, who owned the
Ford auto dealership located on Walnut Street,
also owned a lot between Second and Third
Streets on Walnut. Dr. Arnold T. Nielsen had
recently built his medical building on the corner
of Third and Walnut and had several feet of
frontage on Walnut between his building and
Kline’s vacant lot which he was using for parking. Kline felt that the library should be located
in what was then the “downtown” section of
Ankeny, so he offered to sell to the library
board. The board thought his lot was not quite
as large as was needed, so it negotiated with
Dr. Nielsen for a few feet of his frontage. The
combination of Kline and Nielsen land was
purchased for about $6,000 in early 1960.
The board selected a firm and instructed it
to prepare plans for a one-floor brick building
with floor space of approximately 3,000 square
feet. The board felt that this would take care
Thousands of titles are available, including a wide range of new books. Photo by Todd Rullestad.
of library needs for a city with a population of
5,000.
An open house was held on Sunday, March
19, 1961, with more than 1,000 Ankeny residents in attendance. The library then officially
began regular operations at noon the next day.
Growth and change
After a couple of short-tem library directors,
Myrna Anderson, who was about to complete
Skilled Nursing Care
Physical, Occupational, Speech & IV Therapy
Long Term Care
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For more information on Sunny View please
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FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
7
FEATURE
a degree in library science, was interviewed
for the position. Three weeks later, she was
offered the job to begin July 1, 1967, at an
annual salary of $5,800. She held the position
until her retirement 42 years later in 2010.
“When we started, we had no computers,” she says. “There was no Internet. Now
the materials that people can access electronically are just ‘wow.’ But the best thing about
the library was always my staff. They are the
library’s biggest assets.”
The library on Walnut Street had been
built when the population of Ankeny was about
3,000. When the library opened in 1961, it was
thought to be adequate to serve a population
of 5,000. It soon became apparent that Ankeny
was growing so fast that the number would be
exceeded well before the next census in 1970.
As early as 1964, the library board decided to
investigate the possible acquisition of property
adjacent to the library on either the north or
east side for expansion. In late 1970, the city
purchased 50 feet of frontage on Walnut Street
for library expansion.
The result of the many discussions held
about space needed by the city and by the
library was an agreement that the library
should be moved, and that the city should
occupy the library building, expand the building
on land already owned by the city and use the
Walnut Street location for a city hall and other
facilities. Again, building a library in Wagner
Park seemed best to the library board, and it
was decided in late 1973 to make this move.
Groundbreaking for the new library building was held on Nov. 2, 1974. An open house
at the new Kirkendall Public Library was held
on Nov. 1, 1975. The librarian reported record
circulation for the month of January 1976 was
6,441.
The library today
The Kirkendall Library moved to its present
location at 1210 N.W. Prairie Ridge Drive
in September 2010. Since those early days in
1961, the library has grown along with the
city of Ankeny. In 2001 it was reported that
20,000 people were registered borrowers,
and the library had grown 100-fold since its
inception — from 2,600 square feet to 26,000
square feet.
In 2014, there were 268,631 visits to the
library, and total registered users numbered
40,909.
Sam Mitchel, who became director of the
library in May 2014, says he understands that in
a town that continues to grow at the rate that
Ankeny is growing, library expansion is often
on people’s minds.
“With a community this size of over
50,000, we know we’re busting at the seams,”
he says. “Our collection is getting big. We’re
running out of room. We have been participating with the city of Ankeny in their needs
assessment study. The city is looking at all
their buildings and doing a study of what might
be needed, and what is working, and what
might be better utilized. The city does understand that our library is getting too small. At
this point there are no concrete plans for
expansion, but it is something we’re looking
at.”
Mitchel says no matter where the library
building might end up in the future, it’s certain
that Ankeny residents believe strongly in a
well-staffed and well-stocked library.
“One thing I’m very pleased about is that
the library is well utilized,” he says. “It’s great
to see that moms and dads and their young kids
can spend time here, and school aged and teens
are regularly using our library. We also have a
lot of senior and adults who are here regularly,
so it’s really a place for all ages to learn and
enjoy.” Q
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FEBRUARY | 2015
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CALENDAR
Thursday Feb. 19
Q Grief Share, a support group for
people who are grieving the death of
someone close to them, 6:30 p.m. St.
Paul Lutheran Church
Q Intermediate Microsoft Excel
2013 Computer Class for Adults.
Registration is required. Call the
library at 965-6460 ext 5. 5:306:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Q Chess Mix. Hone your chess skills
and meet new friends. Bring your own
board or use one of ours, 6:308:30 p.m., Kirkendall Library.
Q Evening Book Discussion: “What
is the What” by Dave Eggers, 7 p.m.,
Kirkendall Public Library
Q AHS Wrestling: Varsity State
Tournament vs. IHSAA, TBD
Q AHS Robotics Club Meeting
3:35 p.m., Southview Middle School Room 2206
Q AHS After Prom, 7:30 p.m., AHS
Career Center
Q ACHS Wrestling: Varsity State
Tournament vs. Des Moines, 2 p.m.,
Iowa Events Center
Q ACHS Parent/Teacher
Conferences, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Friday Feb. 20
Q “Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 7:30 p.m.,
Ankeny Community Theatre
Q City Council Budget Retreat
Q Tot Time. No structured activity
provided, 9:30 a.m., Kirkendall Library
Meeting Room
Q AHS Basketball: 9/10/V vs. East,
4:45/6:15/7:45 p.m., @ DSM East
Q ACHS Basketball: 9/10/V vs.
Ottumwa, 4:45/6:15/7:45 p.m.
Tournament vs. Des Moines, 9 a.m.,
Iowa Events Center
Saturday Feb. 21
Q “Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 7:30 p.m.,
Q Ankeny Writers Group, “That’s
the Spirit” by Debra Landwehr Engle,
9 a.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Q AHS Concert Band Performance,
8 a.m., Perry High School
Q AHS Basketball: Girls Varsity vs.
Ames, 7 p.m., @ Ames HS
Q ACHS Band Concert,
8 a.m.-5 p.m., Perry HS
10
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
Tournament vs. Des Moines, 10 a.m.,
Iowa Events Center
Q ACHS Basketball: Girls Varsity
Tournament, 7 p.m.
Sunday Feb. 22
Q “Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 2 p.m.,
Q Social Bridge. Partners are not
necessary. There is place at the table
for you, 3 p.m., Kirkendall Public
Library
Q Books & a Bite Book Club, for
children in 3rd-5th grade who love
books. Participants will have the
opportunity to share about books
they are reading and enjoy a snack.
This book club meets once per
month, 3:15 p.m., Kirkendall Library
Q ACHS Choral Concert, 2-4 p.m.
Monday Feb. 23
Q ACHS Basketball: Boys Varsity
Tournament, 7 p.m.
Q Social Cribbage. All levels of players are welcome. Bring your favorite
cribbage board or use one of ours.
1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Q Park Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m.,
Parks & Recreation Office
Q Who Was? Book Club, for children 3rd-5th grade. Sign up by calling
the Children’s Desk (965-6460, option
4) to participate, 6 p.m., Kirkendall
Library
Q Ankeny Genealogy Chapter,
All are welcome. There is no fee
to attend, but if you would like to
become a member there is $7.50
annual membership dues. Each month
features a program to help in your
research, 7 p.m., Kirkendall Library
Q AMS Basketball: Boys 8th vs.
Ames, 4:30 p.m., @ Ames MS
Q AHS Basketball: Boys Varsity vs.
TBA, 7 p.m.
Tuesday Feb. 24
Q Toddler Story Time, a 15-20 minute theme based story time designed
for 1- to 3-year-olds and their parents/ caregivers. Participants will be
engaged in books, rhymes, counting activities and songs, 9:30 a.m.,
Kirkendall Library
Q Preschool Story Time, a 20-25
minute theme based story time
designed for 3- to 5-year-olds and
their parents/caregivers, 10 a.m.,
Kirkendall Library
Q Preschool ABC Story Time, a
20-25 minute alphabet theme based
story time is designed for 4- to
6-year-olds and their parents/caregivers, 10:30 a.m., Kirkendall Public
Library
Q Afternoon Book Discussion B,
“Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes,
1 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Q Larry Gets Lost Book Club, for
children kindergarten-3rd grade.
Please sign up by calling the Children’s
Desk (965-6460, option 4) to participate, 3:15 p.m., Kirkendall Library
Meeting Room
Indian Hills, 7 p.m., @ Indian Hills
Q AHS Basketball: Girls Varsity
Regional Tournament, 7 p.m.
Q ACHS Parent/Teacher
Conferences, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Q ACHS Basketball: Boys 8th vs.
Johnston, 4:30 p.m., @ Johnston
Tournament, 7 p.m.
Q Ankeny Historical Society
Meeting, 2 p.m.
Wednesday Feb. 25
Q Music Appreciation for All Ages,
This program is led by Joan Jamison,
MME. A short DVD will provide information and background. Major works
by the composer will be presented
and discussed, 12:15 p.m., Kirkendall
Public Library
Q Genealogy Personal Assistance,
Come with questions for individual
help with your family search, 1-3 p.m.,
Q Preschool ABC Story Time, a
20-25 minute alphabet theme based
story time designed for 4- to 6-yearolds and their parents/caregivers, 1
p.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Thursday Feb. 26
Q Move & Groove Story Time, a
25-30 minute movement based story
time designed for children ages 3-6
who have a good imagination and who
like to move, 10:30 a.m., Kirkendall
Public Library
Q Budget Public Information
Hearing, 5:30-6:30 p.m., City Hall Council Chambers
Q English Learning Circle, a monthly
gathering of adults who practice
everyday conversational English and
get to know the public library, 6:308:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Centennial, 4:30 p.m., @ Southview
Middle School
Q AMS Swimming: 8th Meet vs.
Johnston, 5 p.m., Ankeny YMCA
Q ACHS Swimming: 8th Meet vs.
Johnston, 5 p.m.
Friday Feb. 27
Q “Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 7:30 p.m.,
Q Open Art Studio. The library
provides the supplies, you bring the
creativity, 9 a.m., Kirkendall Public
Library
Q AHS Basketball: Boys Varsity
Substate Tournament, 7 p.m.
Tournament, 7 p.m.
Saturday Feb. 28
Q “Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 7:30 p.m.,
Q Social Cribbage, All levels of players are welcome. Bring your favorite
Q AHS Dance Team Winter
Showcase, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Ankeny High
School
Q AHS Vocal Music - Spring
Concert, 7-9 p.m.
Sunday March 1
Q “Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 2 p.m.,
Q AHS Dance Team Winter
Showcase, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday March 2
Q City Council Meeting (agenda will
be available Friday before meeting)
City Council Chambers
Q AHS Basketball: Girls Varsity
State Tournament, TBD, Wells Fargo
Arena
Q AMS Swimming: 8th Meet,
4:30 p.m., @ South East Polk
CALENDAR
Boone/Southeast Polk, 4:30 p.m., @ SEP
Tuesday March 3
Q Book & Movie Discussion,
“Awakenings” by Oliver Sacks, The
book inspired a motion picture
starring Robert DeNiro and Robin
Williams. Watch the movie together
and then discuss the book and movie.
Popcorn and tea provided. Books
available at the library, 1-3:30 p.m.,
Q Zoning Board of Adjustment
Meeting, 5 p.m., Ankeny City Hall
Q Plan & Zoning Commission
Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ankeny City Hall
Q AHS Track: Varsity Meet vs.
Wartburg, 3 p.m., @ Wartburg
Q AHS Band Concert, 4-9 p.m.
Q AHS Basketball: Boys Varsity
Substate Tournament, 7 p.m.
Q ACHS Track: Varsity vs.
Wartburg, TBD/3 p.m., @ Wartburg
Q ACHS Band Concert, 7-9 p.m.
Tournament, 7 p.m.
Wednesday March 4
Q Children in the Middle, These
classes are designed to help minimize
the negative impact of divorce on children and educate parents about the
needs of children whose parents are
divorcing. Cost: $40, 5:30-8:30 p.m.,
Tournament vs. IGHSAU, TBD, Iowa
Events Center
Thursday March 5
time is designed for children ages 3-6
Public Library
Q AHS Band Concert, 6:30 p.m.
Marshalltown, 5 p.m., Ankeny YMCA
Marshalltown, 5 p.m.
Q ACHS Show Choir Concert,
7 p.m., Sunday-2-4 p.m.
Friday March 6
Saturday March 7
Q ACHS Track: Boys Varsity vs.
UNI, 4:30 p.m., @ UNI
Wednesday March 11
Q Mystery Book Discussion, “Sick of
Shadows” by Sharyn McCrumb, 1 p.m.,
Kirkendall Library
Q AHS/ACHS Basketball: Boys
Varsity State Tournament, TBD, Wells
Fargo Arena
Q AHS/ACHS Jazz Contest,
8 a.m.-5 p.m., Hoover HS
Q AHS/ACHS Basketball: Girls
Fargo Arena
Q Chamber Chill 5k Run/Walk
2015, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Prairie Trail
7 p.m., Sunday-2-4 p.m.,
Q Sunday Scrabble. Scrabble enthulike to move, 10:30 a.m., Kirkendall
siasts of all skill levels, ages 12 and
Public Library
older, are invited for a casual afterQ Sit and Knit. All ages and skill
noon of Scrabble the second Sunday
levels are welcome for a relaxing
of the month in the library cafe, 2:30and informal afternoon knitting or
4:30 p.m., Kirkendall Library
crocheting, 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public
Library
Q Social Cribbage, All levels of players are welcome. Bring your favorite
Q Budget Public Information
Q No School - Flex Day, Ankeny HS
Hearing, 5:30 p.m., City Hall - Council
Chambers
Q AHS Track: Girls Varsity vs. UNI,
Fargo Arena
11 a.m., @ UNI
Q ACHS Track: Girls Varsity vs.
Cedar Falls, 3 p.m., UNI Dome
Fargo Arena
Thursday March 12
Sunday March 8
Monday March 9
Friday March 13
Saturday March 14
Tuesday March 10
Q Monthly Senior Lunch, for Ankeny
citizens 60 years and older. Guests are
invited to stay for bingo after lunch.
Pre-registration is required and payment is due at the time of registration,
noon, Lakeside Center
Q Afternoon Book Discussion A,
“The Dovekeepers” by Alice Hoffman,
1 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library
Q AHS Track: Boys Varsity vs. UNI,
11 a.m., @ UNI
Waukee, 4:30 p.m., @ Waukee
Q ACHS Swimming: 8th vs. Waukee,
4:30 p.m., @ Waukee
Sunday March 15
Q Checkers Anyone?, Stop by the
library cafe’ for a casual game of
checkers and some friendly conversation. Boards will be out, 2:304:30 p.m., Kirkendall Library
Monday March 16
Q City Council Meeting (agenda will
be available Friday before meeting)
City Council Chambers
Q No school - spring break
Q AHS/ACHS Track: Girls Varsity
vs. ISU, 4 p.m., @ ISU
Tuesday March 17
Q Sit and Knit. All ages and skill
levels are welcome for a relaxing and
informal afternoon knitting or crocheting, 6:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public
Library
Q English Learning Circle, practice
Conversational English, 1-3 p.m.,
Q AHS/ACHS Track: Boys Varsity
vs. ISU, 4 p.m., @ ISU
Q Zoning Board of Adjustment
Meeting, 5 p.m., Ankeny City Hall
Q Plan & Zoning Commission
Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ankeny City Hall
Wednesday March 18
Q All-Day Athlete Lock-In, designed
to expose boys and girls to a multitude of recreational opportunities during a one day lock-in. Participants are
encouraged to bring their ball glove.
Lunch is provided. Program is open to
kids in 2nd-4th grades. Cost is $30 for
residents and $36 for non-residents.
Crocker Elementary
Thursday March 19
Public Library
Q March Madness, for basketball
crazies with contests, games and
prizes planned for this special event!
Lunch will be provided. Event is open
to those in 2nd-6th grade. Cost is $15
for residents and $20 for non-residents, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Prairie Ridge
Middle School
Q Chess Mix, Hone your chess skills
and meet new friends, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
Q Evening Book Discussion, “The
Dinner” by Herman Koch, 7 p.m.,
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
11
www.edwardjones.com
FINANCE
What do low oil
prices mean for
investors?
s you’ve no doubt noticed,
your trips to the gas station have been a lot more
pleasant these past several months.
There’s not much doubt that low oil
prices have been welcome to you
as a driver. But when oil is cheap,
is that good for you as an investor?
There’s no clear-cut answer.
But consider the following effects of
low oil prices:
s0OSITIVEIMPACTONECONO
my. When you spend less at the gas
pump, relative to recent years, what
will you do with your savings? Like
most people, you’ll probably spend
most of it on goods and services.
If you multiply the amount of your
increased spending by the millions
of other Americans who are also
saving money on gas, you can see
that you and your fellow consumers
are likely adding billions of dollars
to the economy. Typically, a strong
economy is also good for the financial markets — and for the people
who invest in them.
s $IFFERENT RESULTS FOR DIF
ferent sectors. Different sectors
within the financial markets may
respond in different ways to low
oil prices, even if the overall effect
is generally positive. For example,
businesses such as consumer goods
companies and auto manufacturers
may respond favorably to cheaper
oil and gas. But the picture might
be quite a bit different for energy
companies.
You could spend a lot of time
and effort trying to adjust your
investment portfolio in response to
low oil prices. In fact, you may well
want to consult with your financial
professional to determine which
moves might make sense for your
individual situation. Yet there’s actually a bigger lesson to be learned
here: Don’t overreact to temporary
A
Justin Bjerke
Financial Advisor
2575 N. Ankeny Blvd.
Suite 217
Ankeny, IA 50023
515-965-7582
Brian D. Herbel
CFP®, AAMS®
Financial Advisor
917 E. 1st St.
Terry G. Peter
AAMS®
Financial Advisor
2005 S Ankeny Blvd
Suite 500
Ankeny, Iowa 50023
515-965-6901
Glenna Trosper
AAMS®
Financial Advisor
1200 SW State St.
Suite B
Ankeny, IA 50023
515-964-2089
Tracy L. Burt
AAMS®
Financial Advisor
Suite 102
Ankeny, IA 50023
515-964-4404
Stacey S. Koeppen
Financial Advisor
2005 S Ankeny Blvd
Suite 500
Ankeny, Iowa 50023
515-965-6901
Mark Ellison
AAMS®
Financial Advisor
2505 SW White Birch Dr.
Suite I
Ankeny, IA 50023
515-965-2473
Erik C. Nilius
Financial Advisor
1690 SE Delaware Ave.
Suite 103
Ankeny, IA 50021
515-964-1471
Schneider’s Square, Ste. D
Ankeny, IA 50021
515-964-1010
Travis Padget
Financial Advisor
2505 SW White Birch Dr.,
Suite 1
Ankeny, IA 50023
515-965-2473
Member SIPC
developments. The recent decline
in oil prices has certainly had an
economic impact, but no one can
predict how long these prices will
stay low or what other factors may
arise that would affect the financial markets. That’s why you can’t
reconfigure your portfolio based
on particular events, whatever they
may be — oil price drops, interestrate fluctuations, political squabbles
at home, natural disasters in faraway
lands, and so on.
If you can keep from being overly influenced by specific events, you
may be able to gain at least two key
benefits: First, by not making trades
constantly in reaction to the headlines of the day, you can avoid piling
up heavy fees and commissions —
costs that can reduce the return
rate on your investments. Second,
you’ll find that if you aren’t always
thinking about what’s going on in
the world today, you can focus your
investment efforts more intensely
on where you want to be tomorrow. The most successful investors
set long-term goals and don’t focus
on factors they cannot control, such
as oil prices, interest-rate changes
or other economic events. Instead,
these investors make adjustments,
as necessary, to accommodate
changes in their goals as well as
other changes, such as revisions in
tax laws — but they basically stick
to their same approach for the long
term.
So be aware of low oil prices,
but don’t get so “pumped” about
them that you sludge up your
consistent investment strategy —
because that strategy has the energy
to keep you moving toward your
important objectives.
This article was written by Edward
Jones for use by your local Edward
Jones Financial Advisor. Q
Information provided by Mark Ellison, 2505 S.W. White Birch
Drive, Suite I, Ankeny, 515-965-2473.
12
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
FAITH
Ashes
Make the most of the gift of life while you can
By John Wagner, Ankeny First United Methodist Church
s a child, almost nothing motivated me more
than hearing words like,
“You’ve only got one hour left.”
If I was at an amusement park or
playing at a friend’s house, hearing that I only had a little time left
motivated me to run faster, play
harder and make the most of that
one hour.
By the time you read this
article, Ash Wednesday may have
already passed. Ash Wednesday
is the beginning of the season
of Lent, a time of preparation
for Easter. Lots of people “celebrate” Lent by fasting, removing vices, considering sacrifice
and the like. But I wonder if
you would consider what ashes
might mean for you today. In
many Christian churches, ashes
can be a symbol of repentance. In
the Bible, we read about people
covering themselves in ashes to
symbolize a need for God’s help
or forgiveness.
This year in my life, Ash
Wednesday represents a call
from God that says “Hey, you’ve
only got a little while left.” I feel
less motivated to consider all the
things I have done wrong or have
to give up, and instead a desire
to focus on all the things I might
do before Easter. I want to make
the most of this preparation time
for Easter. I want to visit the sick.
I want to help those in need. I
want to humble myself and walk
with the stranger or the outcast.
I want to share with someone in
this season of Lent that “you’ve
only got a little while left —
A
Easter is coming. Jesus is alive.
A season of celebration and new
life is upon us.” I could write an
entire book on the significance
of Easter for us each day, but I’ll
save that for next month.
In Ash Wednesday worship services, I will be a servant
who smears ashes on someone
else’s forehead and whispers
words like, “Remember that you
are dust, and to dust you shall
return.” My prayer is that the
person who heard it, or reads
it today, hears those words just
like I did as a child playing in the
neighborhood. “You mean I can¹t
be here forever? You mean I
might only have a little longer to
play? I better make the most of
this.”
None of us will live in these
bodies forever. They are just
“ashes,” but life is a gift. Make the
most of it. Live for someone else,
love unconditionally, run faster,
play harder and live like God just
gave you a little more time to
play and to serve. Q
Information provided by John Wagner. associate pastor,
Christian Life Center, Ankeny First United Methodist Church.
*
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www.radiantcomplexions.com
Some cosmetic procedures may not be available as same day appointments due to
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FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
13
FITNESS
FEBRUARY is Ask the Anytime
FREE
when you join today!
Owners
Expert answers to your wellness questions
By Tiffany Christensen and Kirk Jordison, Anytime Fitness
Q: Do I really need to wipe down
every piece of workout equipment after I use it?
A: Yes. Sweat and germs can
linger on weight benches, cardio
equipment handles, exercise mats
and other equipment. When not
disinfected frequently or properly,
gym goers are more likely to get
sick with the cold or flu virus. If
you are working out with multiple
machines (e.g. circuit training), cut
down on cleaning time by placing
a towel on whatever piece of
equipment you are using, making
sure to always keep the “clean”
side down. Most gyms provide
disinfectant spray or wipes, so
keeping a clean workout environment is easy and shows good gym
etiquette.
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE
TO GET FIT!
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TODAY!
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H U X L E Y 86
14
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
Q: I’ve heard a lot of talk about
the health benefits of drinking
apple cider vinegar? Can it really
help me lose weight?
A: As with any “magic trick”
pertaining to weight loss, if it
sounds too good to be true, it is.
The claim states that drinking an
apple cider vinegar drink before
meals will help curb appetite and
will boost metabolism. However,
there is little scientific evidence
to back this up. There are partial
truths to the claim, however. Our
brains can perceive thirst as hunger, leading to the overconsumption of food. By simply staying
hydrated throughout the day and
drinking a glass of water before
meals — with or without vinegar —we tend to take in fewer
calories and, thusly, weight loss
may follow.
Additionally, the acetic acid in
vinegar has been shown to raise
G6P, a sugar molecule involved
in metabolic processes. (That’s
where the increased metabolism
claim comes from). However,
if energy is not expended, G6P
can also be converted to starch
and ultimately stored, similar to
excess fat. So the basic rule still
applies — expend more energy
than you take in, and you will lose
weight.
Studies show that consuming
apple cider vinegar does have
an affect on insulin sensitivity in
people who are insulin resistant.
Essentially, the acetic acid suppresses enzymes responsible for
breaking down sugar, producing a
similar effect to that of Metformin.
For that reason, it is very important that people with Type 2
diabetes consult with a registered
dietitian before consuming a daily
mixture of vinegar. Q
Kirk Jordison is the club owner at Anytime Fitness in northeast
Ankeny’s Briarwood Center. Tiffany Christensen is the club
owner at Anytime Fitness in Ankeny’s Prairie Trail development. Both owners are proud to be raising their families in
Ankeny. To submit a question for future articles, please contact
the authors at: [email protected] (Prairie Trail)
or [email protected] (Briarwood).
FOR YOU. AND THEM.
0DNHWLPHIRUDPDPPRJUDP
One of the best ways you can take care of your family is by taking care of yourself.
Schedule your traditional or 3D mammogram today to help protect your family’s tomorrows.
ankeny • clive • des moines iowaradiology.com (515) 226–9810
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
15
REAL ESTATE
Interest rates are once again at historic lows.
Bankers Trust mortgage department has a variety
of loan products available to meet your needs.
Steps to take before
you buy a home
• Construction loans
• Purchase or refinance
• Fixed rate and ARM loans • Rehab loans
• 100% financing available for qualified purchase
transactions
You’ll feel more content by doing your homework
Let Bankers Trust be your financing solution.
Call me today!
GARY PRESNALL
Vice President
Mortgage Loan Originator
Office: (515) 248-1388
Cell: (515) 975-6767
[email protected]
NMLS ID#: 406030
From Bonnie Christensen
M
NMLS ID: 440379
BankersTrust.com
RATES ARE GREAT!
NOW is the time to buy!
Looking to buy or sell your home?
Call Bonnie today!
Bonnie Christensen
CRS, GRI, e-PRO® and Broker
107 East 1st Street
Ankeny, Iowa 50021
Cell: (515) 971-9973
Fax: (888) 239-3244
[email protected]
www.BonnieSellsIowa.com
Each Office Independently
Owned and Operated
16
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
ost potential homebuyers
are a smidge daunted by
the fact that they’re about
to agree to a hefty mortgage that
they’ll be paying for the next few
decades. The best way to relieve
that anxiety is to be confident
you’re purchasing the best home
at a price you can afford with
the most favorable financing. These
steps will help you make smart
decisions about your biggest purchase.
s $ECIDE HOW MUCH HOME
you can afford. Generally, you
can afford a home priced two to
three times your gross income.
Remember to consider costs every
homeowner must cover: property taxes, insurance, maintenance,
utilities and community association
fees, if applicable, as well as costs
specific to your family, such as day
care if you plan to have children.
s $EVELOP YOUR HOME WISH
list. Be honest about which features you must have and which
you’d like to have. Handicap accessibility for an aging parent or special
needs child is a must. Granite countertops and stainless steel appliances are in the bonus category.
Come up with your top five musthaves and top five wants to help
you focus your search and make
a logical, rather than emotional,
choice when home shopping.
s 3ELECT WHERE YOU WANT
to live. Make a list of your top
five community priorities, such as
commute time, schools and recreational facilities. Ask your real
estate agent to help you identify
three to four target neighborhoods
based on your priorities.
s 3TART SAVING Have you
saved enough money to qualify for
a mortgage and cover your downpayment? Ideally, you should have
20 percent of the purchase price
set aside for a downpayment, but
some lenders allow as little as 5
percent down. A small downpayment preserves your savings for
emergencies.
However, the lower your
downpayment, the higher the loan
amount you’ll need to qualify for
and, if you still qualify, the higher your monthly payment. Your
downpayment size can also influence your interest rate and the
type of loan you can get.
Finally, if your downpayment
is less than 20 percent, you’ll be
required to purchase private mortgage insurance. Depending on the
size of your loan, PMI can add
hundreds to your monthly payment. Check with your state and
local government for mortgage and
downpayment assistance programs
for first-time buyers.
s !SK ABOUT ALL THE COSTS
before you sign. A downpayment
is just one homebuying cost. Your
real estate agent can tell you what
other costs buyers commonly pay
in your area — including home
inspections, attorneys’ fees and
transfer fees of 2 to 7 percent of
the home price. Tally up the extras
you’ll also want to buy after you
move in, such as window coverings
and patio furniture for your new
yard. Q
Information by Lisa Kaplan Gorden, provided by Bonnie
Christensen, broker, ReMax Opportunities, 1810 S.W. White
Birch Circle, Suite 104, Ankeny, 971-9973.
OVER 60 PROPERTIES SOLD IN 2014!
LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME?
Call Bonnie today! (515) 971-9973
Bonnie Christensen
Opportunities
CRS, GRI, e-PRO® and Broker
PRICE REDUCED
#3t#"
walkout
$359,000
2017 NE INNSBRUCK DR t ANKENY
4 BR/4 BA
Over 2500 sq ft
finished
50' x 50' building
with 2000 sq ft of
living space
$270,000
$160,000
4615 NE 5TH ST t ANKENY
2 BR/2 BA
All newly updated
101 WATER ST t CAMBRIDGE
#3t#"
1 Car garage
Townhome
4 BR/3 BA
$158,000
$133,000
$86,000
SOLD
.&3&%*5)%36/*5t63#"/%"-&
4 BR/3 BA split level
many updates
401 NE MANDY AVE t ELKHART
#3t#"
backs to a pond
PRICE REDUCED
$189,000
#3t#"
DBSHBSBHF
2nd floor condo
$253,000
SOLD
SOLD
1817 3RD AVE SE t ALTOONA
1812 5TH ST SWt ALTOONA
SOLD
2101 MEADOW CT #705 t DM
SOLD
$104,000
2514 NE OAK DR #4 tANKENY
#3t#"$BS
Many updates
#3t#"
$VMEFTBD
#3t#"
2 Car attached
$78,000
$225,000
$150,000
1305 E 33RD CT. t DM
SOLD
433 NE 16th ST t ANKENY
SOLD
205 NE ELM t ELKHART
RATES ARE GREAT!
NOW is the time to buy!
1810 SW White Birch Circle, Ste. 104 t Ankeny, Iowa 50023
www.BonnieSellsIowa.com
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
17
NEWS BRIEF
LIBRARY NEWS
Ankeny sets all-time record for construction
The city of Ankeny’s latest building reports show new record highs
were set in Ankeny for new residential and commercial construction
and permit totals in 2014.
In terms of total construction valuation, Ankeny surpassed $300
million for the first time in its history with a record high of more than
$318 million in 2014. The previous record high of $284 million was set
in 2012. Further review of the $318 million total construction valuation
shows the following breakdown:
s )N A RECORD HIGH WAS SET IN TOTAL COMMERCIAL VALUATION IN
Ankeny with $106.5 million. The second highest year was 2012 with
$100 million.
s )N A RECORD HIGH WAS SET IN TOTAL RESIDENTIAL VALUATION IN
Ankeny with $205.5 million. The second highest year was 2013 with
$191 million.
s4HEREMAININGAMOUNTOFTHEMILLIONAPPROXIMATELYMIL
lion) comes from other additions, alterations and miscellaneous permits
issued by the city.
When totaling the number of permits issued by the city, 2014 came
in as Ankeny’s second highest year with 2,237 permits. The highest
number was 2,240 permits, which was set in 2005.
When reviewing the number of new residential units by year, 2014
is Ankeny’s third highest year with 1,089 units. The highest number was
set in 2005 with 1,347 units, followed by 2004 with 1,098 units.
“The record-breaking numbers reflect the incredible amount of private investment that is occurring in our community,” says David Jones,
Ankeny’s city manager. “Current and past city leaders, developers, local
businesses, residents and city staff are the ones to thank for the ongoing
success we continue to have in this area. Ankeny has seen many years of
solid growth, and we continue to see considerable development activity.
It is no surprise that Ankeny leads in residential development, but there
also is strengthening development interest and activity across other sectors, which bodes well for Ankeny’s future from a balanced development
perspective. Ankeny is a great place to live and work, and the numbers
show it.”
While there were a number of new businesses and neighborhoods
that were built in Ankeny, some of the more notable construction
projects that occurred in 2014 included additions to John Deere Des
Moines Works and Casey’s General Stores. Construction also occurred
on a new Sam’s Club, BioLife Plasma, Car-X Auto Service and Ankeny’s
tenth elementary school — Rock Creek Elementary.Q
The AV lab in the library’s Hatch offers cutting-edge tools and technology.
Hatch an idea
Unleash your creativity at Kirkendall Public Library
By Nicholas Janning
I
Have an EVENT
coming up?
Submit your calendar items online at
www.iowalivingmagazines.com
18
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
f you’ve ever wanted to try out
a 3D printer, a green screen,
robotic or a sewing machine, the
Kirkendall Public Library’s makerspace is the place to be. Opened in
2013, the Hatch offers a wide array
of cutting-edge tools and technology
to anyone with a library card and
some creativity.
With the library’s Makerbot
Replicator 2x, patrons can design
a 3D model from scratch or download a model to be printed. Items
are printed using ABS plastic and
cost only $1 an hour for printing.
Patrons have used the 3D printer
to build model trains, earrings, camera parts and even prototypes and
mockups.
In addition to the 3D printer,
the Hatch also provides a sophisticated AV lab for amateurs and
experts alike to become movie stars
and video editors. Filming against
the green screen allows patrons
to add whatever background they
want — a beach, New York City
or even the moon. Have some
old home videos or photographs?
Converting VHS and cassette tapes,
vinyl records, 35mm negatives and
color slides is all possible in the
Hatch.
The Hatch’s robotics station
gives users the ability to build basic
machines or full-fledged rovers with
Little Bits and Lego Mindstorms.
The Hatch’s sewing station offers a
sewing machine, a serger and two
mannequins for patrons to learn
how to sew or to work on sewing
projects.
It’s easy to become involved
in the Hatch. Usage of the equipment is free to all library patrons,
and reservations can be made for
periods of up to two hours. Events
and workshops for grades three-12
are offered every week, providing
opportunities for hands-on learning
and unrestricted creativity. Sign up
is available at the library’s children’s
desk.
1210 N.W. Prairie Ridge Drive
515-965-6460
Hours:
Mon. - Thurs.: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Fri. - Sat.: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sunday: 2-5 p.m.
Want to learn more about the
makerspace? The Kirkendall Public
Library is hosting an informational open house on March 3 from
6-8 p.m. Visitors will be able to
learn more about the makerspace
equipment and see the 3D printer,
robot and green screen in action.
Individuals who are eager to share
their knowledge and expertise
with others also will learn about
mentoring opportunities. The
event is free and open to the public. Come and learn about what
you can create in the Hatch. Q
WE ARE
The Largest* Real Estate Company
is making its home in Ankeny
Kacy %ell
918-607-641
Jill %uGGen
515-971-1670
Tom %utler
515-491-1561
Joe Carroll
515-490-4089
Loren Carroll
515-490-08
Pennie Carroll
515-490-805
Michelle Cheek
515-40-04
1athan Erickson
641-580-4077
Alberta Finley
515-669-601
Emily Fritzler
515--815
%raG Johnson
515-480-486
Justin Jones
515-868-8094
Justin Kimberley
515-619-4758
Char Klisares
515-14-5667
Courtney Mason
515-577-414
Cathy McAulay
515-974-9071
Amy Miller
515-0-84
Rick 6abala
515-01-4746
%ob WaGGell
641-45-998
%arb WieGenman
515-10-58
Call your neighborhood agent today!
ZZZNZDQNFRP
EaFh oIÀFe inGepenGently oZneG anG operateG 1605 1 Ankeny %lYG 6uite 0 Ankeny ,A 500
*
Based upon publicly available agent count figures for the United States, as of February 6, 2013.
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
19
SENIOR LIVING
Managing stress
Anxiety affects many of the elderly
By Shelly Charter, Valley View Village
uring the past few months
we’ve talked about the six
pillars of a healthy brain.
Let’s review those:
s2EGULAREXERCISE
s(EALTHYDIET
s-ENTALSTIMULATION
s1UALITYSLEEP
s3OCIALIZATION
The final pillar we are going
to discuss is stress management.
There’s no doubt that we all have
plenty of stress in our lives, but
how do we manage that? Do we
internalize stress or manage it with
unhealthy choices, such as drinking
or eating too much? Or do we just
get anxious and pay the price of
that anxiety with negative physical
symptoms such as high blood pressure, ulcers or extreme nervous-
So how can we keep our brain
healthy by managing the stress in
our lives? Start by taking a deep
breath. Breathing deep impacts the
oxygen level in the brain that often
gets depleted when stress occurs.
Secondly, schedule a time for
activities that are relaxing for you.
Take a long walk, soak in a nice,
hot bubble bath, or spend some
extra time doing a hobby you
enjoy.
Last, but not least, don’t forget
about the mind-body connection.
Spend time in prayer and meditation. A strong spiritual life can be a
great brain booster and help protect it against the damaging effects
of stress.
Just like other parts of your
body, your brain needs attention.
You only have one. Give it the
tender loving care it deserves so it
will serve you well.
Read more about the six pillars
of a healthy brain at http://www.
helpguide.org/elder/alzheimers_
prevention_slowing_down_treatment.htm. Q
Information provided by
Shelly Charter, Valley View
Village, 2571 Guthrie Ave.,
Des Moines, 265-2571.
Im
m
ed
As
si
L
ia ivi sted
te ng
Av
ai
la
bi
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y
D
ness?
I think something we often
overlook is that a by-product of
stress is anxiety. I recently read
that anxiety is often referred to as
the “Geriatric Giant,” as it is often
difficult to diagnose and affects so
many elderly. I often see that anxiety in this population, as they try
to manage the day-to-day choices
and activities of daily living. This
often becomes too overwhelming,
and that burden can be easily lifted
when some of those day-to-day
things stressors are taken off their
shoulders. That’s why a retirement
community can be such a blessing — providing meals, medication management, socialization and
other services that make everyday
life just a little less stressful.
If you’d like to be part of a vibrant adult community set in a
Christian environment on Des Moines’ East side, check out Valley
View Village! We support the physical, emotional and spiritual
needs of our residents at each stage of their lives. Our continuum
of care includes independent and assisted living, as well as skilled
nursing, rehabilitative therapies and respite care.
We’ve been faithfully providing compassionate care for more
than 50 years — and we’re preparing for the next 50 years with a
brand new, state-of-the-art health center. Find out why Valley View
Village has been home to generations of senior adults.
Schedule a tour today!
6ALLEY6IEW6ILLAGEs'UTHRIE!VENUEs$ES-OINESssWWWELIMCAREORG
20
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
CALL JEN AT 515-963-1252
FOR MORE INFORMATION
S
S S
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1.49A
3.76A
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LOTS
LIMITED
TREED PARK-LIKE SETTING

HOME SITES RANGE FROM 0.25ACRE TO 5 ACRES

ANKENY SCHOOLS

DES MOINES WATER, ANKENY SEWER

NO HOA OR ASSOCIATION DUES

ACCESS TO SHOPPING, STORES, WATER PARK
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL or EMAIL JEN AT 515-963-1252 s [email protected]
GIOVANTI HOMES IS PROUD TO BE THE EXCLUSIVE BUILDER FOR BELLA WOODS
WWW.GIOVANTIHOMES.COM/BELLAWOODS
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
21
WHERE WE LIVE
The Cook family and their home in the Sienna Hills development. Photo by Amy Kort.
A home that’s theirs
Cooks choose Ankeny for their life as a family
By Amy Kort
mere five years ago, the Cook family called Ankeny “home.” Like many
newlyweds, they wanted to move into
a home that was “theirs,” not “hers” or “his.”
“We moved from West Des Moines, which
was my husband’s home prior to getting married,” Janaha says. “We wanted to move to a
home that was ‘ours.’ We sought a neighborhood to fit the next stage of our life which
included starting and raising a family. The reputation of Ankeny’s good school system also
drew us to the community.”
Mitch, Janaha and their two children,
Aubrianna, 3 and Scarlet, 7 months, along with
their dog, Milo, live in the Siena Hills development, conveniently tucked just south of Des
Moines Area Community College and west of
South Ankeny Boulevard.
“We were looking for a neighborhood that
was welcoming and family oriented. We also
A
22
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
liked the location — proximity to the main
amenities as well as convenience to the Des
Moines metro,” Janaha says.
In addition, she says, the home they were
in needed some maintenance, so the timing was
appropriate to relocate, knowing they weren’t
looking to stay there long-term,
The family is also close to parks, trails, and
green spaces.
“We frequently go on walks in our neighborhood one of which includes a walking trail
around a pond,” Janaha says. “We also enjoy
walking/jogging around the DMACC trail.”
They love the friendly neighborhood.
“Our neighborhood hosts an annual neighborhood block party in the summer, which is
always enjoyable to catch up,” she adds.
Their two-story home meets their needs
for their current family, Janaha says.
“We enjoy our open and finished basement
as well as having an extra bedroom for our outof town-family,” she says. “In addition we enjoy
our ‘toy room’ off of our kitchen.”
The open space allows the family to interact with one another from the toy room,
kitchen and living room and includes a view of
their backyard.
Outside, they like the freedom their kids
and dog have to run and play in their fenced-in
backyard. During the warmer months, they can
relax on their patio.
A bonus?
“As the ‘organizer’ of the household, I love
our closet organization system we installed in
our closets,” Janaha says. Q
Would you like your home featured in this
column in an upcoming issue of Ankeny
Living? If so, email Darren Tromblay at
[email protected].
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M E R L E N O R M A N . CO M
WEST DES MOINES
6305 Mills Civic Pkwy.
224-5853
ANKENY
1802 SE Delaware Ave.
963-0628
MERLE HAY MALL
3800 Merle Hay Rd.
251-7168
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
23
We Believe we are The Best in Ankeny
Let your Voice Be Heard
WHAT’S IN YOUR GARAGE
VOTE FOR
MEXICAN RESTAURANT
,OOKFORTHEANNUALh"ESTOF!NKENY”
CONTESTINTHE!NKENY0RESS#ITIZEN
-USTCOMPLETEATLEASTQUARTERSOFTHESURVEYTOBEVALID
Ryan Brown plans to pass his grandfather’s hand tools on to his children, although
daughter Amelia isn’t too sure if she wants them. Photo by Patti Stockdale.
Pass it on
Brown remembers his grandpa
By Patti Stockdale
3%$ELAWARE!VEs!NKENY
(515) 964-4264
ucked inside Ryan Brown’s
garage are some old hand
tools — a mallet, a woodhandled hammer, a chisel, a punch
and a few screwdrivers. What
makes these objects so special?
They once belonged to Ryan’s
grandfather, Homer Brown.
Ryan grew up in Indianola, just a
six-minute bike ride from his grandparents’ home. He loved hanging
out there, pulling weeds in their big
vegetable garden, steering the riding
lawnmower while his grandfather
worked the pedals and watching
Grandpa fix all sorts of things.
“From Tiger Cubs to Webelos,
Grandpa always helped build my
Pinewood Derby cars,” Ryan says.
“He used a soldering iron to melt
down fishing weights to help weigh
down the car. I’d chisel down the
bottom and help cut stuff. I actually got third place one year. I was
stoked and remember bragging to
Grandpa about it.”
According to Ryan, his grandfather was a quiet man, a man’s man
— the type of man who just didn’t
let his grandson win at checkers.
“I always knew he loved me, but
he wanted me to think for myself,”
Ryan says. “He’d guide me, but I
T
had to figure things out on my own.
That way I learned it faster, remembered it longer and understood it
better. He tried to pass things on
to me.”
It wasn’t just some random
hand tools Grandpa Brown passed
down to Ryan. He also handed Ryan
tools he’d one day use to raise his
own children.
“My grandpa passed away when
I was 11,” Ryan says. “I idolized
him. I looked at him and thought,
‘That’s the kind of guy I want to be.’
I do see myself that way, especially
not letting the kids win at horse
or whatever. I want to make them
work for it. I want them to try their
best.”
Ryan and wife, Deidre, have
three children — Parker, 13;
Amelia, 10 and Gus, 4. When asked
if he plans to pass the tools on to
his own children someday, Ryan
states that he hopes to if they still
work.
“I don’t want any tools,” Amelia
states.
Ryan smiles and tells her she
might change her mind someday.
He adds that if she grows up to be
like her grandma, she’ll definitely
use them. Q
Contact Darren at 953-4822 ext. 304 or darren@dmcityview.
com to recommend someone for an upcoming issue of “What’s
In Your Garage?”
24
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
WELLNESS
Anatomical short leg
Condition leads to back pain
By Christopher M. Renze, DC, DIBCN
ftentimes in my office, I test on a patient while he is sleeping.
will examine a patient who It makes no sense.
A majority of people have a
presents with low-back
pain that has eluded multiple spe- measurable anatomical leg-length
cialists. This patient has typically difference of a quarter-inch or
undergone pain medications, muscle more, although most people adapt
relaxants, anti-inflammatories, phys- to the difference with no apparent
ical therapy and epidural steroid ill effects. Unfortunately, some do
injections, yet still has not obtained not. The ill effects range from lowany significant relief. Diagnostic back or sacroiliac pain to hip, knee
imaging such as MRI will usually or foot problems.
A number of causes can conshow single-level degenerative disc
disease and herniation, often at the tribute to leg-length discrepancy,
lower lumbar spine, without any including the following:
known injury. The typical scenario s !NY PREVIOUSLY BROKEN LEG
is of a patient aged 25 to 50 who bone, particularly during growth
seems healthy in all aspects, except years.
for constant nagging low-back and s #ONGENITAL DIFFERENCES OR
sometimes leg pain that worsens the uneven growth.
s $ISEASECAUSEDSHORTENINGOF
longer he or she is standing.
When I see this situation, my the muscles and connective tissue, a
first inclination is to rule out an ana- common after-effect of polio.
tomical leg-length inequality, caused s 3URGICALLYINDUCEDDIFFERENCES
by an anatomically short bone in the especially common after hip- or
leg. It should be noted that anatomi- knee-replacement surgery.
cal (structural) leg-length inequality s #OMPENSATION FOR PROBLEMS
is entirely different from and should elsewhere in the body, such as pelnot be confused with physiologi- vic or spinal scoliosis.
These biomechanical adaptacal (functional) leg-length inequality.
Physiological leg-length inequality is tions and compensations for even a
due to muscular imbalances, not slightly short leg can have long-term
bone length. So why does anatomi- side effects, manifesting as low-back
cal leg-length inequality leading to pain, hip and knee pain, uneven
back pain often get overlooked? It’s gait and various foot and lowervery simple: every diagnostic test leg problems. These problems are
such as X-ray, CT scan and MRI often related to the bodily adaptaperformed in a medical and hospital tions that occur due to continuous
setting prior to my consultation unbalanced movement and can be
has had the patient lying on his or aggravated by the stresses of sports
her back. One can not evaluate the activities such as running.
The diagnosis and treatment of
effects of gravity on the spine, hips,
knees and ankles with the patient such leg-length differences and their
lying on his or her back. The patient effects is the subject of volumes of
must be standing when the X-ray is medical history and research. Our
taken to make accurate leg-length office uses a specific protocol to
measurements. Also, if you have diagnose and correct this condition
ever experienced severe back pain, without the use of drugs or surgery.
If you or someone you know is
lying on your back is about the only
comfortable position you will find. suffering from back pain and have
Taking an X-ray with the patient not found the relief for which you
lying comfortably on his back when are looking, please contact our
the patient has pain while standing, office. We may be able to help
is like performing a cardiac stress you. Q
Information provided by Christopher M. Renze, D.C., D.I.B.C.N.,
of Renze Chiropractic Clinic, P.C. For more information, visit
www.renzechiro.com or call the office at 965-3844.
O
NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
Care for the Entire Family
s Neck & Back Pain
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Most Insurances Accepted
CHRISTOPHER M. RENZE DC, DIBCN
Palmer Graduate
Board-Certiﬁed Chiropractic Neurologist
Is Back or Neck Pain
Impacting Your Life?
NON-SURGICAL, DRUG-FREE procedure for
s Degenerative Discs s Sciatica
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SpineMED® spinal disc decompression is a safe and
pain-free procedure designed for back and neck pain.
* Spinal Decompression, that is, unloading due to non-surgical distraction and positioning.
The only SpineMed table in Central Iowa.
www.RenzeChiro.com
Contact us today
965-3844
925 E. 1st Street | Suite L | Ankeny
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
25
al
it
HEALTH
ry
rt
ea rua
h
b
e
ur
yo his F
e
t
v
Lo ore
m
tle
Free Blood
Pressure check
at our pharmacy!
Walk-ins are welcome.
No purchase required. Available during
regular business hours in February.
February is
Heart Month
Heart disease kills an estimated
630,000 Americans each year.
It’s the leading cause of death for
both men and women in the United
States. For information on how to
prevent heart disease, go to www.
heart.org or talk to your doctor or
our pharmacist.
515-964-8550
*Only at Medicap Pharmacy,
515-964-8550
107 NE Delaware Ave,
Suite 6, Ankeny
M-F8:30am-6:30pm, Sat.8:30am-2pm
Monday - Friday 8:30-6:30,
Saturday
107 NE Delaware
Ave, Suite8:30-2
6, Ankeny
MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED
Cooking for
Heart-Health
Ladies’
Night Out
Saturday, February 21
11:00am–12:00pm
North Ankeny Blvd. Hy-Vee
$15/person
Thursday, February 26
6:00pm–8:00pm
Prairie Trail Hy-Vee
$25/person. 21 and Up
Learn what it means to eat
a heart-healthy diet and
what heart-healthy cooking
really looks like.
Food, wine,
chair massages
and photo booth.
Registration is required
Registration is required
Jenny Norgaard, RD, LD
[email protected]
Laura Kimm, RD, LD
[email protected]
Anne Hytrek, MSEd, RD, LD, CDE
[email protected]
Making lives easier, healthier, happier.
410 North Ankeny Blvd.
Ankeny 515.964.0900
26
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
2510 SW State Street
Ankeny 515.963.3139
Q: What is a stroke, and
how can I protect myself
against one?
A: A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted by a
blocked or a burst blood vessel. Strokes are the third leading cause
of death, but the good news is most strokes can be
prevented.
To reduce your chances, control these risk factors: high blood pressure, stop smoking if you do,
prevent heart disease with healthy diet and exercise
and reduce blood cholesterol levels.
The warning signs of a stroke include sudden
weakness or numbness or the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion or
trouble speaking, sudden trouble seeing in one or
both eyes or sudden, severe headaches with no known cause. Time is
of the essence with a stroke, so It’s important to recognize the warning
signs and act quickly, by getting yourself or a loved one to the hospital
immediately. Q
Information provided by Jennifer Meurer, Pharm.D., Medicap
Pharmacy, 107 N.E. Delaware, Suite 6, 964-8550.
Q: What can I do to prevent
heart disease?
A: February is American Heart Month. Since cardiovascular disease is still
the leading cause of death in America, the health of your heart should still
be of primary importance. You can reduce your risk with a few dietary and
lifestyle modifications. Aim for an overall healthy diet. Consume a diet rich
in fruits and vegetables. Choose whole-grain, high-fiber foods. Consume fish,
especially oily fish, twice weekly. Limit intake of saturated fat, trans fats and
cholesterol by choosing lean meats and vegetable proteins, fat-free or lowfat dairy products and minimizing your intake of partially hydrogenated fats.
Minimize beverages and foods with added sugar. Prepare foods with little
or no salt. If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation. Aim for a healthy
weight. Balance your calorie intake with your physical exercise. If you
need to lose weight, take in fewer calories than you burn off. To maintain a
healthy weight, balance the intake and output. Aim for recommended levels
of blood fats (LDL, HDL and triglycerides). Both diet and exercise can lower
the “bad” fats and increase the “good” fats. Aim for normal blood pressure.
Both diet and exercise can help you manage blood pressure. Aim for normal
blood sugars. Both diet and exercise can help you achieve normal blood
sugars. Be physically active. Don’t sit when you can stand, don’t stand when
you can walk, don’t walk when you can run. Try to get some exercise every
day. Avoid use of and exposure to tobacco. This has been called the most
important step you can take for your health. No health advice can take the
place of your health care provider so please check out your heart-health
status with them. They know what goals should be specifically yours. Go to
www.hy-vee.com for hundreds of heart-healthy recipes. Q
Information provided by Laura Kimm, RD, LD , Registered
Dietitian, North Ankeny Blvd. Hy-Vee, 410 N. Ankeny Blvd. ,
Ankeny, 515-964-0900.
HEALTH
Q: How serious is the
measles?
A: The Center for Disease Control reports that in January 2015, 68 people from 11 states were diagnosed with the measles. Most of these cases
are part of a large, ongoing outbreak linked to Disneyland in California.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that lives in the nose and throat
mucus of an infected person. It can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90
percent of the people close to that person will also become infected. It
typically begins with high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes
(conjunctivitis). The skin rash usually appears after three days. Two or
three days after symptoms begin, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may
appear inside the mouth. Complications include pneumonia or encephalitis (brain swelling). The death rate in children can be as high as one in
1,000.
Vaccines of all types given to infants and young children over the past
two decades will prevent 322 million illnesses, 21 million hospitalizations
and 732,000 deaths. Vaccines are safe and effective. They have been the
most successful tool in medicine to date. If you have questions about
vaccines talk to your doctor. Q
Information provided by Dr. Douglas Layton, D.O., 2515 S.W.
State St., Ankeny, 515-964-6999.
Care coordinated around you.
At UnityPoint Clinic, getting you healthy
and keeping you that way is important to us.
Family Medicine
Urgent Care – Ankeny
Suite 100
(515) 964-4600
Family Medicine
Prairie Trail
2515 SW State St.
Suite 200
(515) 964-6999
OB/GYN
909 SW Oralabor Rd.
(515) 965-0300
Pediatrics
909 SW Oralabor Rd.
(515) 963-4400
Internal Medicine
Prairie Trail
2515 SW State St.
Suite 100
(515) 964-6929
unitypoint.org
000647e.dm2-3 1/15 CS
Q: Why is it important
to take my child to the
dentist?
A: February is National Children’s Dental health Month. The American
Dental Association sponsors NCDHM to raise awareness about the
importance of children’s dentistry. At Peddicord Family Dentistry, we
always encourage parents to bring their children in for checkups and
preventive treatments designed to improve the health and beauty of
little smiles.
sChildren’s checkups. Just like adults, children should have a dental exam once every six months. We recommend regular visits once the
first baby tooth erupts or the child reaches 6 months of age. A checkup
allows the dentist to watch for any signs of developing dental health
issues and recommend treatment.
s0REVENTIVETREATMENTS To help children avoid tooth decay, we
offer dental sealants and fluoride treatments. Sealants involve coating the
teeth in a special material that prevents food and bacteria from adhering
to the grooves of the teeth. Fluoride treatments actually strengthen the
outer enamel, improving your child’s natural defenses against cavities.
s#ARINGFORLITTLESMILESFROMHOME Along with dental exams,
parents should help their kids maintain healthy smiles from home.
Children also need to brush and floss as often as adults in order to
remove bacteria and stray food particles. Q
Information provided by Dr. Erika Peddicord, Peddicord
Family Dentistry, 121 N.E. 18th St., Suite C, 963-3339.
Providing
dental
care for
all ages!
Our focus is on prevention.
We believe that foreseeing
potential problems, identifying
them in the early stages and
taking appropriate action will
help our patients lead a more
comfortable and happy life.
121 NE 18th Ave. Ste. C Ankeny
963-3339 www.ankenyIamilydentist.com
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
27
HEALTH
Q: How can I protect my
parents’ skin from winter?
At-Home Care Company is devoted to assisting older adults
throughout central Iowa in maintaining an independent lifestyle at home.
Light/deep housekeeping | Laundry | Meal preparation
Escorts and errands | Medicine reminders | Personal care
Companionship – even overnight | Home/lawn upkeep
Emergency alert systems
No contracts and no minimums
515.963.4410
Insured | Bonded
Rated “Best of Story County”
for 5 years in a row
Suite 4 | Ankeny
www.AtHomeCareCo.com
nd us on
cebook
Specializing in pediatrics and vision therapy
We offer comprehensive vision care, including cataracts,
dry eyes, glaucoma, pink eye, and diabetic eye care.
It is estimated that one in four school-age children has a
vision-related learning issue. When 80% of what your child
learns is vision based, this can have a huge impact on reading,
attention, and performance in school. If you, your child, or
someone you know struggles with eye strain, headaches,
fatigue, double vision, blurry vision, loss of place when reading,
or similar complaints, there may be a vision-related issue.
CALL TO SCHEDULE AN EVALUATION TODAY.
EULN M. RRPVGDKO, O.D.
A: Seniors are prone to skin issues. Over time, skin becomes thinner,
drier and more fragile. Winter weather compounds these problems,
making seniors more prone to itchy skin and rashes. A good suggestion
is to apply moisturizer immediately after showering. Be sure to check the
ingredients; many moisturizers contain lanolin — a common allergen for
the elderly. Petroleum jelly can be a skin saver — if you don’t mind the
greasiness. After applying, immediately cover the area with clothing to
enhance absorption and prevent evaporation.
s$ONTFORGETTODRINK#OOLERWEATHERDOESNTMEANYOUCANSKIMP
on hydration. Stick to eight glasses of water a day.
s "EFORE BRAVING THE OUTDOORS BE SURE TO COVER AS MUCH EXPOSED
skin as you can. The skin on your fingers and toes is particularly susceptible to frostbite and windburn.
s3UNSCREENISESSENTIALDURINGWINTERDAYSESPECIALLYIFTHERESSUN
reflecting snow on the ground.
s+EEPSHOWERSSHORT"ASKINGINTOOMUCHSCALDINGWATERONACOLD
winter’s night can strip your skin of much of its moisture.
s #RANK UP THE HUMIDITY &ULLROOM HUMIDIFIERS CAN HELP REINFUSE
artificially-heated air with much-needed moisture.
At-Home Care Company can help keep you safe and protected during the winter months. Call 515-963-4410 to talk to our staff. Q
Information provided by Chelsea Spear, At-Home Care
Company, 1513 N. Ankeny Blvd., Suite 4, Ankeny, 515-963-4410.
Q: How can I protect
my children against eye
injuries?
A: Some of you may have seen the recent Nationwide commercial during the Superbowl that talked about childhood injuries and prevention.
One type of injury that doesn’t get talked about much but can be readily
prevented is an eye-related injury.
Many of these injuries happen during sports activities. Getting poked
in the eye during basketball games is one of the most common instances.
Protective sports glasses are the best way to prevent eye injuries, and
they have improved immensely in terms of style and comfort over the
years. Even if your child doesn’t normally wear glasses, it is recommended that he or she has protective, impact resistant glasses to help protect
his or her eyes during sports.
Protective sports glasses are manufactured to meet strict standards,
both for the frame itself and lenses used. Though these glasses can still
be broken given a strong enough force, they will help to reduce or eliminate the impact to the areas around the eyes and the eyes themselves.
Protective sports glasses are recommended for all activities and can
be made with tinted lenses for outdoor sports, clear lenses for indoor
sports or even Transitions lenses to allow them to darken and lighten
depending on the amount of sun. Stop by or call to discuss these options
with our knowledgeable staff. Q
Residency trained in pediatrics and vision therapy/rehabilitation
2525 N. AQNHQ\ %OYG SWH. 109 AQNHQ\
96-51 ZZZ.FKLOGDQGIDPLO\YLVLRQFHQWHU.FRP
28
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
Information provided by Dr. Erik Romsdahl, Child and
Family Vision Center, 2525 N. Ankeny Blvd., Suite 109,
Ankeny, 964-7541.
EDUCATION
HEALTH
Meet Melissa Brenner Q: I have knee pain when I
run. Can chiropractic help?
Kindergarten teacher loves her job
By Ashley Rullestad
elissa Brenner began
her seventh year teaching at Ankeny Christian
Academy this fall, and she says it’s
just where she wants to be. After
graduating from Faith Baptist Bible
College, she took on few other
teaching jobs before coming to
ACA as a sixth grade teacher. She
spent one year in that grade, and
she’s been teaching kindergartners
ever since.
M
“It is so much fun,” she says.
“I’m a creative person and I love
teaching with different creative
skills and doing unique things with
them like sitting on the floor and
playing with manipulatives. It’s a
lot less seat work. We do so many
interesting things, and at that age
they love being at school.”
Brenner says her own faith
background makes her a great fit
for the atmosphere at ACA, and
she loves that her job includes not
only teaching academics but sharing her faith with her little learners.
“Being at ACA, our biggest priority isn’t necessarily the academics — not that it isn’t one of our
huge focuses — but it’s also about
sharing a love of Christ,” she says.
“It isn’t only teaching them how to
read and ABCs but sharing truth
with them that they can take for
the rest of their lives.”
Along with that, Brenner
hopes that her students are able
to learn life skills from their time
in kindergarten. It’s been said that
everything one needs to know is
Melissa Brenner teaches kindergarten at
Ankeny Christian Academy. Photos by
Ashley Rullestad.
learned in kindergarten, so she
believes it’s her job to help them
succeed not only academically, but
socially and emotionally, too. She
believes strongly in helping them
to develop problem-solving skills
and start to learn how to make
good choices and work well with
others.
She hopes parents know they
can always approach her with
questions and concerns, and she
welcomes input from colleagues
and staff.
“I want to constantly be learning how to better my teaching and
show lifelong learning to the kids,”
Brenner says. “I hope to give them
a good foundation for school and
life and always be learning and
improving. I always want to keep
getting better at my job.” Q
A: Yes, you can definitely benefit from being under chiropractic care. Not
only do chiropractors adjust the spine, but they adjust extremities as well.
There may be a few different causative factors regarding your knee pain.
First off, your knee joint will be examined. The bones (tibia, fibula,
femur and patella) need to be checked and in proper alignment. Sprainstrain of the surrounding ligaments and muscles also needs to be ruled
out.
It is important that your pelvis and hips are balanced. There are many
different muscles that attach to your pelvis and insert around the knee. If
there is a misalignment within your pelvis or hips, not only are the bones
affected, but the muscles are now pulled in a different direction to compensate, thus affecting your knee. A balanced and symmetrical pelvis and
hips take the pressure and pull off of your knee.
Your feet and ankles should also be examined as they absorb the
shock from running. Walking and running should be a fluid motion within
those joints. If there is an altered gait or a misalignment in the foot, running will no longer be a fluid motion, and there will be an increase on the
amount of force put on each knee. If not corrected, your knees will continue to compensate and the pain can work its way up from your knees
to your low back, as it is all connected. Q
Information provided by Nicole Olson, DC, CACCP, Olson
Chiropractic Health Center, 1510 S.W. Oralabor Road, Suite
B, Ankeny, 289-1015.
Providing quality chiropractic care and
empowering each person
to live towards their maximum potential!
s Focus on family wellness
s Nutrition information and services
s Certiﬁed in prenatal and
pediatric chiropractic care
NICOLE OLSON, DC, CACCP
[email protected]
What’s your favorite thing about school?
289.1015
Garrett Bauer, 5:
“Reading stories.”
Macy
Grandgeorge, 6:
“Eating snacks and
reading stories.”
Ruby McClintock,
6:
“Making stuff, like
today we get to
make butter.”
MON, TUE, THU
8am–6pm
FRI
8am–5pm
SAT
by appointment
1510 SW ORALABOR ROAD, SUITE B ss ANKENY
www.olsonchirohealthcenter.com
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
29
RECIPE
Recipe is easy to pull together
Stir things up
Family favorite stir fry
By Marchelle Walter Brown
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds round steak (cut in bite-size
pieces)
2/3 cup water
2/3 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
2 cups celery (diced)
1-2 cups green onions with tops
(chopped)
2 green peppers (cut in thin strips
1 red pepper (cut in thin strips)
1 cup carrots (sliced thin)
2 cans water chestnuts
1 can mushrooms
1 package frozen stir-fry vegetables
2 tablespoons corn starch
eading is a favorite pastime for a lot of people, including me.
However, sometimes what I enjoy reading is a bit non-traditional
— I like to read cookbooks.
And I read them just like some folks
read a compelling novel. Magazines
that include cooking experiences and
recipes also interest me.
Because my collection started
getting large, I haven’t indulged in
any new “books” lately and have,
instead, started going back through
some of my own compilations. I have
an assortment of hand-written books
which contain only recipes that I’ve actually made over the years and
consider to be tried and true and loved by my family. Recently, I stumbled
across an old favorite that I haven’t cooked in several years so I thought
I’d bring it out of retirement. The prep work is a little time consuming
but, if you plan ahead and get the vegetables chopped beforehand, pulling
the finished product together takes no time at all.
This stir fry is very flavorful, and even people who say that don’t care
for Asian cuisine have been known to love it. Q
R
3 tablespoons water
Directions
Heat oil in a large skillet. Add beef and
cook until browned well. Add all the
vegetables except the water chestnuts
and mushrooms. Cook and stir until
they just start to get tender. Mix water,
soy sauce and sugar together; pour
over the skillet vegetables and add the
water chestnuts and mushrooms. Stir
altogether and bring to a boil. Stir corn
starch into the 3 tablespoons of water,
then stir this into the skillet mixture.
Continue to stir until thickened.
Serve over rice and top with chow
mein noodles.
WHAT WE
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30
NEW
ANKENY
CENTER
COMING FALL
2015!
WEST CAMPUS
ANKENY CAMPUS
720 S 68th Street
6950 NE 14th Street #36
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Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
OUT AND ABOUT
Annual
Chamber
dinner
The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce
held its annual dinner on Feb. 5.
Mike Rooney, Blake Brown, Rod West and Chris
Murray
Jennifer Walter, John Peterson, Ted Rapp and Al
Brazelton
Amber Angaran an Jen Licktieg
Jennifer Putz, Stoy Hall and Larry Anderson
Jeff Staton and Janet Tracy
Lisa Reilly, Lawrence Ezell and Dorothy Mathis
Evan Wyer, Denie Patrick, Cyd Everett and Brad
Heeren
Kathy Doohen and Sue Nelson
Cheryl Jass an Ann Bockenstedt
Mike Urich and Jill Urich
Julie Jordan and Pascale Pennington
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
31
CHAMBER NEWS
Feel the
love in
February
Ankeny Chamber connects at annual dinner
By Jennifer Walter, Chamber president
ebruary is the love month.
Can you feel the love? I know
I loved connecting with many
of our Chamber members at our
annual dinner on Feb. 5 at the
Courtyard by Marriot.
Our annual dinner is like big
Ankeny family reunion of sorts,
connecting with those we don’t
see every day The annual dinner
is always a special time of honoring our Small Business Person
and Citizen of the year for the
lasting impact they have made on
our community. We also honor
our Chamber Ambassador and
Ankeny Young Professional of
the year. These people devote
countless hours to welcome and
support our Chamber members.
I’m feeling lots of love just thinking about each of our award
recipients this year!
The warm fuzzies just keep
flowing as I look forward to
our third annual Chamber Chill
run just a few weeks away on
Saturday, March 7. Thank you to
Prairie Trail, that will be hosting our chip timed 5K run this
year. Our runners will be thinking warm thoughts as they run
or walk decked out in Hawaiian
F
32
Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
themed attire. We are excited to
offer a free kids fun run after the
timed run as well. Our Chill runners can warm up and visit with
friends at Jethro’s Lakehouse
for our after party. This familyfriendly event is open to the
entire community. so be sure to
register at www.ankeny.org
During this month of love,
don’t forget to show some love
to Ankeny by supporting our
local businesses. Q
OUT AND ABOUT
A time for
recognition
The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce
held its annual dinner on Feb. 5.
Kris Oakie and Ed Oakie
Lewis Todtz and James Lahart
Ron Nagel and John Landon Marriott
Patricia Everett, Mary Householder and Kerry
Koeningsfeld
Kelly Kolthoff and Cindy Kolthoff
Kevin Hudachek, Marvis Landon and Mark Land
Kevin Koester and David Jones
Julie Todtz, Craig Schrader and Sherrae Hanson
John Lownaan, Dan Corron and Michelle Morgan
Huggins
Russell Schroeder, Ron Hinds and Chris Bauer
Derik Lord and David Maahs
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living
33
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34
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Ankeny Living
FEBRUARY | 2015
HOME OWNERSHIP WITH COMMUNITY
own your share. share your story.
C O O P E R AT I V E
Now is the Best Time to Reserve Your Home at
Vintage Hills Cooperative at Prairie Trail II
Vintage Hills Cooperative at Prairie Trail is a thoughtfully designed cooperative
community offering active independent seniors an affordable alternative to home
ownership. This exciting form of share ownership offers tax advantages, secured equity
growth, a community lifestyle of like-minded people, and the freedom from the hassles
of home maintenance responsibilities. As a shareholder at Vintage Hills Cooperative,
you play a part in the decision making of the day to day operations of the cooperative.
Vintage Hills Cooperative at Prairie Trail II
,1)250$7,21&(17(56:6WDWH6WUHHW6XLWH)$QNHQ\,RZD
Call today to discover the many advantages of cooperative living. Contact Julie at:
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WHAT OUR MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE COOPERATIVE LIFESTYLE.
“Vintage Cooperative offers shared ownership in a “We want to remain active mentally, physically, and
community of like-minded people 55+. The ability
socially, as we age—all possible with the community
to downsize to a brand new community that is
lifestyle of a cooperative, exercise room, walking
maintenance free, has a secure equity appreciation trail, social room and library. We have only lived
and great tax deductions are just a few reasons why here a few months, but simply, it feels like home! ”
I chose the cooperative lifestyle.”
Tom A., Vintage Cooperative Member
Vintage Cooperative at Prairie Trail, Ankeny, IA
Bob & Sharon T., Vintage Cooperative Members
Vintage Cooperative at Prairie Trail, Ankeny, IA
DON’T DELAY - OVER 60% RESERVED!
FEBRUARY | 2015
Ankeny Living