Urbandale · PDF fileKids eat free on Thursdays! ... other until there simply wasn’t room to display them all in either of our homes. ... Urbandale Living magazine is a monthly publication

LivingUrbandalemarch 2012

50322/50323

magazine

MEET LOREN DEKRUYFEDUCATION

RUBY TUESDAYDINING

MINI LEMON TARTSRECIPE

URBANDALE RESIDENTS SHARE THEIR CHERISHED FINDS

PRSRT STDECRWSS

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

BIG GREEN UMBRELLA

POSTAL CUSTOMER

BIG GREEN UMBRELLA414 61st Street

Des Moines, IA 50312

Treasure troves

MARCH | 2012 Urbandale Living www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale

Call Ahead And Use Our ConvenientDrive Thru to Pick up Your Order!

121st St And Douglas(next to Kum & Go)

andale 21 man d

l e 1222We Proudly Serve

Grounds For CelebrationCoffee Products

Serving Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner Seven Days A Weekam m on am m Sat am m Sun

FREE Buy One Menu Item

And Get One Menu Item FREE!

With Purchase Of Two Beverages. One Coupon Per Visit. Not Valid With Any Other Offer Or $5.95 Daily Special. Expires 3/22/12.

Douglas A eDes o nes 2

Celebrating Our2 Year Anniversary!$2.95 Breakfast Special

Find Our Menu And $5.95 Daily Specials at www.cozycaferestaurant.com

Kids eat free on Thursdays!60 and over eat 25% off every Monday!

reg. $5.95

Try Our Blue Plate Specials!

25% OFFOf $

Call Ahead For Easy Pick-up!Clive... 987-1222

Urbandale... 278-8899Des Moines... 278-8668

Excludes Saturday and Sunday Breakfast. One Coupon Per Visit. Not Valid With Any Other Offer Or $5.95 Daily Special. Expires 3/22/12.

MENU ITEM

Excludes Saturday and Sunday Breakfast.

welcome By Shane Goodman, [email protected]

www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale MARCH | 2012 Urbandale Living 3

Monday–Friday

Soup & Salad Bar $5.99

5000 MERLE HAY ROAD URBANDALE278.0271 864.7444 www.castawaysbargrill.com

www.ramadatropicsresort.com

Find us on

18,000 sq ft indoor waterpark

and the

at

HAPPY HOUR$2.50 DOMESTIC DRAWS

FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS

20% OFFTax and gratuity not included. Not valid with other

offers/discounts. Must present coupon.

Expires 3/31/12

NEW DINNER MENU!featuring

featuring

>

Darren TromblayEditor515-953-4822 ext. [email protected]

Mindi [email protected]

Julie [email protected]

W ith the success of cable television shows like “American Pickers” and “Pawn Stars,” collecting has become an even bigger hobby — and business — for a growing number of

Americans. The same can be said right here at home, as it seems more and more people have started collecting things, sometimes without even truly realizing it. If we are honest with ourselves, we realize that most all of us col-

lect things, whether we want to or not. This becomes quite obvious when explor-ing most people’s homes or garages, as it is easy to find a theme with objects that they tend to compile. And once you start col-lecting, it becomes addictive. Others seem to like to add to your collections, too, and your stock continues to grow. Years ago, my wife started collecting Santa Claus figurines. A friend of hers collected angel figurines. Through holidays and birth-days, they purchased these items for each other until there simply wasn’t room to

display them all in either of our homes. Fortunately, that trend ended, but the Santas continue to provide the memories of that friendship and have become one of our collections that we bring out each holiday season. We also once purchased an antique Coca-Cola cooler at a rummage sale. We didn’t have a need for it, but simply thought it was unique. We added a few more Coca-Cola items, and — voila! — we suddenly became Coke collectors to the point where we had a room full of the stuff. The odd part was that we didn’t drink Coke products, and we never intended to start collecting the stuff. Somehow my wife’s family thought we did, and the collection grew each year until we finally sold off the pieces at a garage sale, providing materials to yet another collector. In this month’s cover story, we share the stories of a handful of local residents and their collections, explaining their passion for the “stuff” and how they became involved in gathering it. It’s a fun story for those of us who admit we collect and for those of us who don’t. Thanks for reading.

Shane GoodmanPublisher

No more Santas, please

4 Urbandale Living MARCH | 2012 www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale

On the cover: Dr. David Davidson. Photo by Michael Swanger.

Urbandale 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. Urbandale Living magazine is mailed free of charge to every household and business in the 50322/50323 ZIP codes. Others may subscribe for $18 annually. Copies of past issues, as available, may be purchased for $3 each (plus shipping if required).

inside

5 Cover story

Treasure troves

9 City newsletter

Urbandale news

10 Calendar

A comprehensive list

13 Legal briefs

Planning for the future

14 Health Q & A

Advice from professionals

17 Faith

Another great year

19 Insurance advice

Smart money moves

20 Garage

Different kind of motor

21 Dining

Ruby Tuesday

23 Education

Meet Loren DeKruyf

24 Good grades

Succeeding at math

Page 5

Page 20

Page 23

ADDRESS: 414 61st Street Des Moines, Iowa 50312PHONE: 515.953.4822EDITORIAL: ext.304DISTRIBUTION: ext.301DESIGN: ext.313ACCOUNTING: ext.301FAX: 515.953.1394WEB: www.iowalivingmagazines.com

PUBLISHER: Shane GoodmanEDITOR: Darren TromblayACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Julie Downing Mindi Sudman Brooke Pulliam Michelle Haupts Dan Juffer Wendy Goodale Pete Gardner Jolene Goodman

DESIGN MANAGER: Celeste JonesGRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Karen Ericson Lindy VorrieEDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Kathleen SummyCONTRIBUTORS: Michael Swanger Rachel Boneschans Elaine LenzeBUSINESS OFFICE MGR: Brent AntisdelDISTRIBUTION: Brent Antisdel

Circulation and readershipaudited by

YOU’RE INVITED!Experience Grimes

A Tasteful Business Expo

Tuesday, March 64:30 to 7:00pm

For more information, please call GCED at 515.986.5770

Performance Display ~ 1400 SE 11th Street

Taste of Grimes

A fun, family

experience!

$1.00 free will donation will be applied to a scholarship for a graduating DC-G Senior

FREE Food and BeveragesEntertainment Face Painting

Balloon Man Over 30 Vendors

PRIZES every 30 minutes!1 FREE Raffle Ticket

(Additional tickets 2 for $1)

VIP Sponsors

This event is sponsored byGrimes Chamber and Economic Development

GRAND PRIZE: Kindle Fire

Sponsored by Exterior Sheet Metal

A nyone who has ever collected some-thing, whether it be stamps, antiques, dolls, sports memorabilia, autographs or

cars, can relate to Dr. David Davidson and Ryan Grother. For them, collecting goes beyond mere fascination for a subject. It includes the thrill of the hunt and the organizing, displaying and main-tenance of their favorite items. Davidson, an Urbandale dentist with a passion for collecting Civil War, Star Trek and political items, is what some collectors might call a “gen-eralist,” while Grother, who organizes monthly baseball card shows at the Urbandale American Legion Hall and is preparing to open his own sports card shop, might be called a “specialist.” Both men started collecting items during their youth, and both confess that they are hooked on collecting. “There are worse things to do with your money,” says Davidson, who shares his joy of collecting with his patients by displaying his favor-ite items throughout his office building that was designed in part to hold his impressive collection. He says that they are great conversation pieces and help to relax patients who otherwise might feel somewhat tense about undergoing dental work. Grother says he enjoys the personal connec-tions he and others make through collecting. “It’s a great way for families to spend time together,” he says. “There’s something for every-one.”

From collector to dealerRyan Grother’s path to collecting and selling baseball cards was somewhat unusual. Unlike most kids who grow up playing youth baseball and collecting cards of their favorite baseball

feature Submit story ideas to [email protected]


Ryan Grother started collecting baseball cards as a child and plans to open his own sports card shop this summer. Top right: An autographed baseball by former player Pete Rose is among Ryan Grother’s collection of

autographed sports memorabilia.

By Michael Swanger

URBANDALE RESIDENTS SHARE THEIR CHERISHED FINDS

Treasure troves

Phot

os b

y M

icha

el S

wan

ger

team and players, Grother instead chose to play football, basketball and soccer. It was the satisfac-tion of assembling complete sets by companies like Topps, Donruss and Fleer that drove him to collect baseball cards at an early age. “I always found watching a baseball game for a few hours to be boring, but it was fun and it was a challenge to get a complete set,” he says. At the tender age of 8, Grother had so many baseball cards that he decided to sell some at a local baseball card show. “My first show was in 1987,” says Grother, 32. “That’s when cards were 25 cents a pack and everyone collected. I sold a lot of 10-cent and 25-cent cards. At the time, the most expensive card was $10 or $15. Things have changed quite a bit over the years.” Grother stopped collecting cards during his college years, but started again after he entered the workforce and got married. Last year, he took over the duties of organizing the sports card show held every third Sunday of the month at the Urbandale American Legion Hall. (The next show will be held in April from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free.) “Interest in the show was dying down, so I put more advertising into it and I think it’s better than ever,” he says.

Grother plans to continue organizing the show after he opens the doors to his own sports card shop, Ryanscardz, later this summer. He is currently seeking a location for the business. “If you’ve done something for over 20 years, you should make a career out of it if you’re good at it,” he says. “But I don’t want it to be just another baseball card shop, I want to have celeb-rity signings because collecting autographs is my favorite thing to do.” Grother’s private collection of signed base-balls, for example, includes legendary players like Ferguson Jenkins, Pete Rose, Tony Oliva and Ryan Sandberg. He also collects autographed baseball bats, football helmets and other items. “I like collecting autographs from the players so I can meet them and say hello,” he says. Among Grother’s prized possessions is a near-mint copy of the first issue of Sports Illustrated magazine, which debuted Aug. 16, 1954. He bought it from an online eBay auction. “This guy was selling his baseball collection, and I could see the magazine in the photo, but he didn’t mention it in the items that were included. I paid pennies on the dollar for what it’s worth,” he says. As much as Grother enjoys finding new trea-sures, he likes meeting new people along the way

and spending time with family and friends. “I love the people and the friends I’ve made over the years,” he says. “Even my wife is getting into collecting a little bit. There are worse ways to spend your money and time.”

Museum within an officeFrom the life-sized, smiling replicas of The Blues Brothers that greet you inside the front doors, to the wall behind them adorned with several rare autographs and photos of Civil War icons like Ulysses Grant and John Mosby, to the many colorful flags flying high above the entryway, Dr. David Davidson’s office is unlike that of most other dentists. But that’s just the tip of the ice-berg.



FREE Food and Wine

MONTHLYCLASSES!

SHADE TREE AUTO

Join us for a night

of wine, food and

everything you need to

know about cars!

For Ladies Only!

Dr. David Davidson, an Urbandale dentist, personally collected the autographs of every presidential candidate

during the 2008 Iowa Caucus.

Phot

o by

Mic

hael

Sw

ange

r



Walk down the hallway and you will see an autograph and photo of Dr. Martin Luther King, a signed poster by Tom Hanks and other actors from the movie “Forrest Gump,” autographs of every president from Nixon to Obama, a case loaded with political buttons, Star Trek items and rare Russian icons depicting scenes from the Bible. “It gives the patients something to look at and talk about and think about while they are here,” says Davidson, 57, with a smile on his face that reveals his genuine enthusiasm for collecting things that began to pique his curiosity as far back as his childhood. “When I was 10 years old, my family visited Gettysburg, and I fell in love with the history of the Civil War. When I got out of dental school, I started collecting Civil War items,” he says. Davidson moved his practice from Beaverdale to Urbandale in 2005 and designed his new office in part around his large collection. Most of the items it houses are on display for patients to view, but some of his prized possessions are tucked away behind closed doors in his private office. Visitors are allowed there, but only if they request to do so. Among the items in his office is a large 1864 cannon, one of only three made from a foundry

in Ohio, complete with various “grape shot” can-nonballs. Davidson bought the “six pounder” can-non from a Civil War dealer in Atlanta and stored it in his garage before moving it to his office. The cannon’s original carriage had rotted away, so he hired someone to make an oak replica that is historically accurate.

“There are only 300 cannons that a private collector can own in this country because the rest are owned by the government. Some are sitting in town squares, but they don’t have the original sized carriage with them,” Davidson says. One of the 10-pound explosive shells that sits

Among Dr. David Davidson’s many prized possessions on display in his office is a rare 1864 “six pounder” cannon made in Ohio.

Phot

o by

Mic

hael

Sw

ange

r


Public Skate & Private Ice Party Options Available

Visit our website for rates & available times!

Call NOW to book your party!

Bring your family and friends to celebrate on ice!

The coolest place in town for birthday parties

Tell us you saw this ad when you book your party, and you get 2 birthday party

guests free of charge! (a $16 value)

on Davidson’s desk he found with a metal detector on a fellow collec-tor’s private property in Vicksburg, Miss. “He gave me permission to check out his land, and I found it in the first 10 minutes I was there. It was quite a thrill,” Davidson says. Like most collectors, Davidson enjoys the hunt as much as the items that he hunts. He makes annual trips to conventions and dealer shows out of state to buy things to add to his collection. One such pilgrimage is a trip to Missouri for taxidermy items like the nine-foot-tall Kodiak bear that he bought from a friend six years ago. In addition to the Kodiak bear that towers from behind Davidson’s desk, the doctor’s office includes an African lioness, cougar and rattlesnake. “When I was a kid, my father would drop me off at the Iowa State Historical Building during summer vacation, and I fell in love with its collection of stuffed animals. I’m not a hunter. I could never shoot one of these majestic animals, but I enjoy collecting them,” Davidson says. From the backwoods to outer space, Davidson’s collection seems

to know no bounds. A self-pro-claimed “Trekkie,” he owns a costume worn by actress Gates McFadden of the television show “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” His office is also home to a three-by-five-foot photo of Davidson with actor William Shatner, who became a cultural icon for his portrayal of James T. Kirk, captain of the USS Enterprise in the original Star Trek series. “I met him at a Star Trek con-vention in Las Vegas. It was the best $79 I spent to get my photo with him,” Davidson says with a laugh. “It’s not like the stuff I have has a lot of value, but it has a lot of value to me and is fun to collect.” Davidson says his wife and three children have not been bitten by the collecting bug like he has, but they support his hobby. He hopes that his collection makes a visit to his office a little more enjoyable for his patients. “They probably think I’m either a little nuts or an eccentric genius,” he says. “But when most people go to the dentist, they have some fear, and my intent is to make their visit a little more pleasant.”


Sundays @ 10 amWynnsong Theaters / Johnston, IA

www.journeydsm.org

We want your photos!

Celebrating a big birthday, anniversary or other milestone?

Send us your milestone announcements with

a picture and we’ll publish them for FREE!

Send your announcements to [email protected]

LivingLivingIowaIowam a g a z i n e sm a g a z i n e s

One of Dr. David Davidson’s favorite taxidermy items is a 9-foot tall Kodiak bear that stands behind him at his desk.

Phot

o by

Mic

hael

Sw

ange

r


MAYOR

Contact Us

Citizen’s Brief Newsletter 3600 86th StreetUrbandale

278-3900www.urbandale.org

CalendarScan this QR code with your smart phone to see a complete calendar.

Download a QR scanner app on

Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go to the city contact page.

BOOK CLUBThe Urbandale Public Library has started a Jane Austen Book Club. A series of programs featuring Austen’s novels will be offered throughout 2012. April’s featured book is Pride and Prejudice. Visit the Library’s website (www.urbandalelibrary.org) or in person for more information.

FY2012-2017 Capital Improvements Program The Capital Improvements Program (CIP) represents the City’s multi-year plan for the maintenance, improvement and development of publicly owned infrastructure. The Capital Improvements Program prioritizes the City’s maintenance and development needs for parks, bridges, sidewalks, storm sewers, streets, street lighting, traffic signals and water systems. The CIP also outlines the improvement and replacement needs for the City’s public buildings, major equipment and information technology services. It also provides for the continuation of the public arts initiative. In total, the FY2012-2017 Capital Improvements Program anticipates expenditures of $200,488,700. Of this amount, $55,229,100 (27.5%) would be funded from the sale of new general obligation bonds, with another $1,445,000 (0.7%) to be financed from previously issued general obligation bonds. Additionally, $26,928,500 (13.4%) would be financed from new tax increment supported debt. This CIP also proposes voter approved Bond Referendums for four (4) projects that account for $19,820,000 (9.9%) of the program. The plan also anticipates that $9,479,000 (4.7%) in special assessment revenues, $45,702,800 (22.8%) in state and federal revenues, $3,216,200 (1.6%) in general fund revenues, $1,018,000 (0.5%) in the storm water utility fund, $34,951,000 (17.4%) in other revenue, and $2,699,100 (1.3%) in water revenue would be utilized to finance the planned capital improvements. The City Council approved the Capital Improvements Program at its February 7 meeting. The five year Capital Improvements Program anticipates an annual debt service tax levy rate of $2.15 per $1,000 of valuation. To find out all the projects planned for 2012 through 2017 a copy of the CIP document can be found at the City’s website (www.urbandale.org). Printed copies can also be viewed at City Hall and Urbandale Public Library.

FY2012-2013 City Budget The FY2012-2013 operating budget represents the City’s operating plan for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012 and ending June 30, 2013. The budget was prepared in conformance with the Code of Iowa and City’s fiscal performance goals. The City Council held budget work sessions to discuss the City Manager’s recommended budget on January 30, January 31 and February 1. Those work sessions gave City Council and the public an opportunity to discuss proposed levy rates and City services. The City Council will hold a public hearing on March 6 and take formal action after the public hearing to adopt the budget. The recommended budget would increase the total City tax levy by $0.10 from $9.52 to $9.62 per $1,000 of valuation. The increase is recommended to the Fire and Police Retirement levy, from $0.20 to $0.30 to cover the rising costs for the Fire and Police pension contribution rate set by the State. The General Fund levy will remain at $7.17 and the Debt Service levy will remain at $2.15. The recommended budget for operations and debt service reflects an increase of $1.2 million in expenditures (2.9%) over the FY2011-2012 adopted budget. The recommended budget anticipates a total revenue increase of $2.8 million over the FY2011-2012 adopted budget. Total anticipated expenditures would equal $42.1 million and total anticipated revenues would equal $43.9 million. For a copy of the recommended budget visit the City’s website (www.urbandale.org) or printed copies can be found at City Hall and the Urbandale Public Library. For additional information on the recommended budget contact the Finance and Records Director, Nicci Lamb, at (515) 278-3900.


Friday, March 2 Read Across America Day

Toddler Time, age 2 with adult,

Urbandale Public Library, 9:30 and

10 a.m.

Eating Disorders Awareness,

Walnut Hills United Methodist

Church, 6:30 p.m.

Muskegon Lumberjacks at DM

Buccaneers, Buccaneer Arena,

7:05 p.m.

St. Pius X Fish Fry, 5 - 7 p.m.

UHS Pops Concert, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 3 UHS Poverty Simulation Event,

9 a.m. - noon

Indoor Kayaking Basics,

Urbandale Swimming Pool, 6 - 8 p.m.

Lincoln Stars at DM Buccaneers,

Buccaneer Arena, 7:05 p.m.

DMCS Jazz Band at Hooverfest

UHS at Totino Grace Show

Choir Invite

UMS Solo Band Contest

Sunday, March 4 St. Pius X Omelet Breakfast, 8 -

11 a.m.

21st Annual Urbandale

Scholarship Brunch, Urbandale Senior

Center, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Bingo, Elks Lodge, 7400 Hickman

Road, smoke free, 2 p.m.

Monday, March 5 Book Babies, Urbandale Public

Library, 10 and 10:30 a.m.

Family Storytime, Urbandale

Public Library, 7 p.m.

DMCS Board of Directors meet-

ing, 6:45 p.m.

UMS Student/Faculty BB game,

3:30 p.m.

Urbandale School Board meeting,

City Hall, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 6 Urbandale City Council meeting,

City Hall, 3600 86th St., 7 p.m.

Toddler Time, Urbandale Public

Library, 9:30 a.m.

Book Babies, Urbandale Public

Library, 10 a.m.



UHS boys and girls track at

Wartburg

UMS P - T conferences, 4 -

8:15 p.m.

UMS SW at Johnston, 4:30 p.m.

KA PTA meeting, 6:30 p.m.

OLM concert at UHS, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 7 Story Time, age 3 - 6, Urbandale

Public Library, 9:30 and 10:15 a.m.

Urbandale Board of Adjustment

meeting, 6 p.m.

Thursday, March 8 Story Time, ages 3 - 6, Urbandale

Public Library, 9:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m.


Library, 10 a.m.

Family Story Time, Urbandale




DMCS 2nd Grade Music

“Informance,” 3:40, 4:20, and 5 p.m.

DMCS Spring Comedy Mission:

Possible!, call the Secondary Office at

252-2490 for ticket information,

7 p.m.

UHS P - T conferences, 4 -

8:15 p.m.

VAL skating party at Skate North,

6 - 8 p.m.

Friday, March 9 Toddler Time, age 2 with adult,


10 a.m.

Fargo Force at DM Buccaneers,





252-2490 for ticket information,

7 p.m.

JEN PTO bingo night, 6:30 -

8:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 10 Toddler Music Program,

Urbandale Public Library, 10 a.m.

Beer n Bread, Living History

Farms, $18 - $20, 3 - 6 p.m.

Cinderella Ballet, Urbandale

Performing Arts Center, 2 and 7 p.m.

Fargo Force at DM Buccaneers,


Flip Side performs, Murphy’s Bar

& Grill, 9 p.m.

St. Pius X Family Fun Night in the

gym



252-2490 for ticket information, 2 and

7 p.m.

Sunday, March 11 Daylight-saving time begins, set

clocks ahead one hour

Cinderella Ballet, Urbandale

Performing Arts Center, 2 p.m.



calendar Submit event information to [email protected]

Under new ownership!

6931 DOUGLAS AVENUEUrbandale 331-1577

Buy Sell Trade Consignment

NEW and USED

FIREARMSAMMO & ACCESSORIES





Urbandale Planning & Zoning

Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

DMCS boys and girls golf practice

begins

DMCS boys soccer practice

begins

DMCS PTF (Parent-Teacher

Fellowship) Executive Committee

meeting, 8:30 a.m.

WEB J-Hawk Huddles, 2:45 p.m.

UMS P - T conferences, 4 -

8:15 p.m.

Tuesday, March 13 Toddler Time, Urbandale Public

Library, 9:30 a.m.


Library, 10 a.m.

Senior Planning Committee meet-

ing, Senior Center, 10:40 a.m.



UHS varsity girls track at ISU,

11 a.m.

UMS 7/8 SW at Waukee,

4:30 p.m.

UHS PABC meeting, 7 p.m.



RG spelling bee, 3 - 4 p.m.




Library, 10 a.m.



Urbandale Senior Advisory meet-

ing, Senior Center, 4:15 p.m.

Franklin Toastmasters meeting,

Northwest Community Center,

5110 Franklin Ave., call 964-7595 for

info, 6 p.m.



DMCS 1st Grade Music

“Informance”, 3:40, 4:20 and 5 p.m.

St. Pius X Stations of the Cross,

9:45 a.m.

Friday, March 16 UHS and St. Pius X no classes



10 a.m.


Saturday, March 17 St. Patrick’s Day

St. Paddy’s Dance with live

music by the Flatland Ramblers,

Illahee Hills, 8308 Colby Pkwy.,

rsvp to 515-251-4604, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 18 Bingo, Elks Lodge, 7400 Hickman


Monday, March 19 Urbandale Schools Spring Break





Tuesday, March 20 First day of spring

Urbandale Schools Spring Break

Urbandale City Council meeting,



Library, 9:30 a.m.


Library, 10 a.m.



UHS varsity girls track at UNI,

11 a.m.

Wednesday, March 21 Urbandale Schools Spring Break

Story Time, age 3 - 6, Urbandale


Urbandale Parks & Rec

Commission meeting, 5:30 p.m.

DMCS HS Band and Choir to

Orlando, Fla.

Thursday, March 22 Urbandale Schools Spring Break

Story Time, ages 3 - 6, Urbandale



Library, 10 a.m.





Greater Des Moines Garden

Club meeting: England’s Castles and

Gardens, Westminster Presbyterian

Church, 1 p.m.

UHS Choral Dept. trip to

Chicago

Friday, March 23 Urbandale Schools Spring Break




Loving, professional Pet Care

in your home

Curt’s Creature Comfort

Serving Northwestern Polk County, Zip Codes:

50021, 50023, 50111, 50131, 50310, 50311, 50312, 50313, 50322

BONDED AND INSURED

943-2301 [email protected]



10 a.m.



Chicago

Saturday, March 24 Platte River Sandhill Crane Tour,

Living History Farms

Circular Revolution performs,

Murphy’s Bar & Grill, 9 p.m.


Chicago

Sunday, March 25 Platte River Sandhill Crane Tour,

Living History Farms




Chicago





Urbandale Planning & Zoning

Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

Urbandale Public Library Board of

Trustees meeting, 6:15 p.m.

DMCS no classes

DMCS boys track at NE

Hamilton, 5 p.m.

UMS PTO meeting, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 27 Toddler Time, Urbandale Public

Library, 9:30 a.m.


Library, 10 a.m.



JEN PTO meeting, 6:30 p.m.






Library, 10 a.m.





DMCS boys track at Perry, 5 p.m.

UHS varsity girls track at Ankeny,

4:30 p.m.

UHS varsity boys track at

Waukee, 4:30 p.m.

UHS JV boys soccer invite, 5 p.m.

VAL concert at UHS, 7 p.m.

OLM/WEB kindergarten parent

meeting, 7 p.m.

Friday, March 30 Toddler Time, age 2 with adult,


10 a.m.


DMCS girls track at Roland-Story,

5 p.m.

UHS 9 boys soccer invite, 5 p.m.

Saturday, March 31 DMCS soccer at Ankeny

Invitational

SCIBA contest at UHS

UHS JV/V boys soccer at

Johnston, 10 a.m.

UHS Sadie Hawkins Dance,

8 p.m.

Sunday, April 1 April Fool’s Day



Monday, April 2 Book Babies, Urbandale Public




DMCS Board of Directors meet-

ing, 6:45 p.m.

DMCS Elementary Spiritual

Emphasis Week

UHS 9/JV boys track meet,

4:30 p.m.

Urbandale School Board meeting,

City Hall, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, April 3 Urbandale City Council meeting,



Library, 9:30 a.m.


Library, 10 a.m.



DMCS soccer at North Polk,

5:30 p.m.

DMCS 6th & 8th Grade Parent

and Student Orientation, 6:30 p.m.

UHS JV/V girls track at Waukee,

4 p.m.

UMS 7/8 girls track at DCG,

4:30 p.m.

UMS 7/8 boys track vs. DCG and

Johnston, 4:30 p.m.

KA PTA meeting, 6:30 p.m.

JEN concert at UHS, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, April 4 Story Time, age 3 - 6, Urbandale


Urbandale Board of Adjustment

meeting, 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 5 Story Time, ages 3 - 6, Urbandale



Library, 10 a.m.



Franklin Toastmasters meeting,

Northwest Community Center,

5110 Franklin Ave., call 964-7595 for

info, 6 p.m.



DMCS boys track at Woodward-

Granger, 4:30 p.m.

DMCS girls track at I-35, 5 p.m.

UHS JV/V boys track at SEP,

4:30 p.m.

UHS 9/JV/V boys soccer vs.

Waukee, 4:45 p.m.

RG PTO meeting, 6:30 p.m.

OLM/WEB PTO meetings, 7 p.m.

Friday, April 6 Good Friday

Passover begins



10 a.m.

DMCS and Early Education no

classes

St. Pius X Stations of the Cross,

2:20 p.m.


Cedar Rapids Roughriders at DM

Buccaneers, Buccaneer Arena,

7:05 p.m.

OLM kindergarten registration,

8 a.m. - noon

VAL Pizza Hut Night


It’s free!Submit calendar items for

your school, church, business, organization or family to [email protected].

new & replacement of driveways, walks, patios, etc. residential & light commercial30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

I V E R S O N Construction

Call Pete at 278-1051

CONCRETEPROBLEMS?

www.peteiversonconstruction.com


URBANDALE’SLAW FIRM

SINCE 1987

Wills and Trusts

Estate Planning

Probate

Powers of Attorney

Real Estate Transactions

Small Business Representation

Top Row:Joe Wallace, Thomas Sherzan

Bottom Row: Mark Abendroth, Dave Russell, Ross Barnett, Chris Low

Abendroth and Russell Law Firm

2560 - 73rd Street Urbandale515.278.0623

www.ARPCLaw.com

CELEBRATING25YEARS

legal briefs By Ross Barnett

Information provided by Ross Barnett, attorney for Abendroth and Russell Law Firm, 2560 73rd St., Urbandale, 278-0623, www.ARPCLaw.com.

A nyone who owns prop-erty — a home, a car, a retirement account — can

benefit from an estate plan. Planning for the future allows you to direct how and to whom your property will be distributed after your death. If you have no estate plan at all, your property will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy, without regard to family needs or your desires. Clients generally have sever-al objectives in estate planning. Obviously, you want to dispose of your assets according to your wishes. You may want to pro-vide for minor children or other specific family members. It may be very important to minimize the cost or time associated with probate or to avoid making per-sonal affairs public. Avoiding paying estate or inheritance taxes is prob-ably always a goal, although most estates will be exempt from both Iowa and federal taxes. You may want to ensure that your favorite charity or institution receives a donation, or you may want to exclude certain persons from receiving anything. The first and most basic estate planning tool is the last will and testament. A will gives you the right to determine who will receive your assets after your death. By exercising your privi-lege of making a will, you can select the personal representative of your estate who will administer your will and distribute your assets according to your wishes. You can use your will to nominate a guard-

ian for minor children or direct that beneficiaries who are young will not receive their inheritance until they are experienced enough to handle the money. Perhaps most importantly, you can also use your will to direct your assets to beneficiaries whom you choose, instead of those who are chosen for you by statute. You may have given significant gifts to one child and want to equalize the inheritance of your other children. You may have stepchildren that you want to share in your estate. Or, you may want to ensure that people outside your immediate family receive a bequest. Many clients are surprised to learn that a surviving spouse doesn’t inherit everything if the decedent had children from a prior marriage. A will allows you to remedy this potential problem. The major benefit of a will is that it gives you control to direct the distribution of your estate according to your wishes. Everyone should have this basic estate planning tool.

Planning for the futureBy Ross Barnett, attorney, Abendroth and Russell Law Firm

Direct how property will be distributed


health Q&A

A: Not only has chiropractic care been shown to be safe for both mother and child, but there are many benefits of receiving chiropractic care before, during and after pregnancy. There is no other time in a women’s life that the physiological and emotional changes are as great as they are in pregnancy. These changes are designed to create the best environment for the growing baby. Unfortunately, as Mommy grows, some of the comforts given to the baby can compromise the spinal and nervous system of the mom. Regular chiropractic checkups, along with proper nutrition and exercise, can help women to get well, stay well and be their best throughout pregnancy and delivery. One study by Dr. Per Freitag MD, well-known orthopedic researcher, showed that the need for pain medication during delivery was reduced by half in pregnant patients who received chiropractic care. Another study by the American Medical Association showed that chiropractic allowed women to carry and delivery their babies with more comfort.

My favorite study was done by Dr. Joan Fallon in which she showed that first-time moms receiving chiropractic care had 24 percent shorter labor and delivery times. Women delivering for the second or third (or more) time had 39 percent shorter labor and delivery times. In short, chiropractic adjust-ments help women stay active through pregnancy, have a more comfortable delivery, reduce need for pain medications in delivery, decrease amount of time spent in labor and can be continued safely until the day of delivery. If you would like more information, please choose a doctor with the highest level of specialization — a DACCP or a DICCP” — or visit www.YostFamilyChiropractic.com or www.icpa4kids.org.

Q: What are the benefits of chiropractic during pregnancy?

Information provided by Dr. Heather Yost, DACCP of Yost Family Chiropractic, 3993 100th St., Urbandale, www.YostFamilyChiropractic.com

944 18th StreetDes Moines

515.699.3244www.WesleyLife.org

Living Life to Its FullestMEALS ON WHEELS Nutritious meals delivered to your home for short term and permanent needs.

HOME HEALTH Personalized services range from help with daily activities to skilled nursing care.

HOSPICE Our holistic approach addresses mind, body, and spirit, to foster personal choice and enrich lives.

ADULT DAY SERVICESCommunity wellness and preventative health programs can elevate quality of life.

The WesleyLife Family of ServicesRetirement Living | Healthcare and Rehabilitation | In-Home Health Hospice Care

Public Health | Meals on Wheels | Adult Day CentersMelissa Elder, MS, LMNT, Director of Senior Nutrition Services, WesleyLife,944 18th St. Des Moines, 699-3244, www.WesleyLife.org.

Q. Can elected officials help end senior hunger?A: As our population continues to age, the need for food assistance is rising among our seniors. According to information published in 2011 by Alliance for Aging Research, the number of U.S. citizens turning 65 is now up to 10,000 per day. The Senior Economic Security Index has reported during the past several years that older Americans have expe-rienced shifts that are making entering retirement with financial security increasingly more difficult. More than 78 percent of all senior households are financially unable to sustain their abilities to meet essential expenses and cover projected costs over their lifetimes. Therefore, the month of March, which is National Nutrition Month, is the time for you to act. Encourage your elected local, state and national officials to lead the fight against senior hunger in our communities. One way you can do this is to encourage your community mayor to participate in this year’s Mayors for Meals day (March 21). In conjunction with the Meals on Wheels Assoc iation of America, this is a special day set aside for our mayors and elected officials to take the time to deliver Meals on Wheels to home-bound seniors in our communities. The WesleyLife Meals on Wheels program has already invited your mayor and elected officials to partici-pate. Please take time to call or email your local mayor today to encour-age him or her to do so. If you would also like to join in and participate, get involved by calling the WesleyLife Meals on Wheels program today.


UL

UL UL

UL

UL


www.dmdentalgroup.comNew pat ients are always welcome!

We offer...

Preventative Dentistry Root Canals Dentures –

partial and complete Crowns and Bridges Treatment

of Gum Disease Cosmetic Dentistry

Des MoinesDental Groupis a full service dental facility

offering the finest in preventative and

restoration servicesfor the entire family!

URBANDALE8515 Douglas 278-2361

Omega Place, Suite 21

DES MOINES2333 McKinley 287-32514405 SW 9th 287-3588

Dr. RobertCram, D.D.S.

Dr. AndrisKirsis, D.D.S.

A: Drinking tap water is a good way to keep children’s teeth strong and cut down on both dental disease and costs, according to study results published earlier this year. More than 144 million Americans in more than 10,000 communities drink fluoridated tap water on a daily basis. Fluoride is proven effective in helping prevent tooth decay. According to a study published earlier this year in the peer-reviewed journal General Dentistry, researchers found that fluoridated public water supplies are a cost-effective way to protect children’s teeth. “Fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before damage is even visible,” said C.H. Chu, lead author of the study. Given that tooth decay affects children in the U.S. more than any other chronic infectious disease, any steps that help are welcome. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods. Not only is it good for your teeth, it helps ward off osteoporosis, a disorder in which bones become porous and brittle. Talk with your dentist about the benefits of fluoride.

Q: What’s the most efficient way to help keep kids’ teeth strong?

Information provided by Des Moines Dental Group, 708 First Ave S., 967-6611.

health Q&Arecipe Submit ideas to [email protected]

Beth McDonald is a wife and mother and works full time in Des Moines.

M ini lemon tarts are a fun dessert to make for a spe-cial family gathering.

These tarts can be served as individual desserts or shared by two people. I like the idea of being able to make individual desserts because you can customize them to each family member. Someone might want more topping while someone else does not like the topping, etc. Plus it looks great when you bring dessert to the table. A tart is similar to a pie but the crust is different. A tart crust is considered a short crust because it does not go over the edge of the pan like a pie crust and the ingredients are different. A tart crust is based on half fat to flour ratio compared to a pie crust that has a leavening agent. Tarts can be filled with a wide range of items. They can be sweet and filled with fruit, custards, or savory and filled with meat. A quiche is also considered a tart. Lemon is a great flavor to use at this time of year. It is in season and it helps you think of spring. This particular tart does have a meringue topping which is very simple to make, but if you prefer whipped cream or whipped topping you can skip the meringue. If you don’t have six mini tart pans, you can use one eight- or nine-inch tart pan. There’s that customization again.

Mini lemon tartsBy Beth McDonald

Mini lemon tarts

Tart recipe:1 ½ cup of sifted flour2/3 cup of butter2 tsp. of almond extract2 to 3 tbsp. of cold water

Directions:Sift the flour and sugar together. Cut in the butter until it is like course meal. Sprinkle in the almond extract and 1 tbsp. of water. I mix with my hands. I wear disposable gloves and work it together until it forms a ball. Usually I have to add the 2nd tbsp. of water. Put mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before lining the tart pans. Place in pans and bake at 350 for 12 - 15 minutes until light brown.

Filling:½ cup of lemon juice1 tsp of lemon rind (optional)1 15 oz. can sweetened condensed milk2 eggs separated¼ tsp of cream of tartar4 tbsp. of sugar

Directions:Combine the lemon juice and rind. Blend in the condensed milk. Beat the egg yolks slightly and then blend into mixture. Pour into cooled tart pans with the crust. Beat the egg whites until foamy and white then add the cream of tartar. Add 1 tbsp. of sugar at a time, beating well until you have stiff peaks. Pile the meringue on each tart. Brown in a 350 degree oven for 10-12 minutes.

Individual desserts are easy to customize


faith Submit story ideas to [email protected]

faithinto action

Visit our web site for more info! www.timberlineonline.org

Corner of Meredith and 121st St in western Urbandale

t imber l i ne church

121st st urbandale 2 .

oin a ur t at uts

WORSHIP TIMESSundays – 8:15am & 10:15am

Children & Student MinistriesSundays – 8:35am &10:35am

Christ is our

Windowto Life!

ALDERSGATE278-0466 3600 75th Street Urbandale www.aldersgatedsm.org

Timberline Church looks forward to 2012

By Pastor Gary Bock

A s I sit down to write this article, I can’t help but have a smile on my face

and be filled with joy as I reflect on the year gone by and look forward with great anticipation to the year ahead. If I could sum up 2011 for Timberline Church, it would be what Jesus said in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” As a result of our faith in Jesus Christ, our love for Him and for all people has continued to grow exponentially. Through our biblical counseling ministry we have, and continue to have, many people seek us out for help in healing hurting and broken marriages, help in addiction recov-ery and help with various other needs.

Through our Faith in Action Sundays — where we close our church doors four times per year and go serve our community in practical ways — by giving away such things as free oil changes, warm coats and food for unem-ployed persons, widows, single mom’s and spouses of deployed military personnel, to sending mul-

tiple teams to Haiti to help an orphanage, or through our Kidsave partnership program to help find adoptive families for children from Columbia, it has been a wonderful year as a church to share the love of Jesus with others and to share our faith with those in need. As I look into 2012, it is my humble hope and our church’s plan that we will continue more and more to experience the love of Christ that comes through faith and that each of our growing min-istries are able to share that love that goes beyond all understanding with all that we serve both inside the church and across our com-munity and around the world. If you are considering going back to church sometime or are looking for a new church home as an individual, couple or a family, we think you will find Timberline Church a welcome place for you. We have many vibrant, growing groups that you can get connect-ed to that will help you (and your family) to love God, love others and to serve the world with joy in practical ways. Our children’s ministry and our junior and senior high ministries, led by great teams, prepare upbeat, applicable Bible teaching combined with fun and friendship building in the learn-ing process. Our other groups such as our singles ministry and our community groups provide connection and spiritual growth for all ages as well. You can learn more about Timberline church by going to our website at www.timberlineonline.org. If you desire to be a part of a welcoming, growing church com-munity that is focused on learning how to love God, love others and serve the world together in practi-cal ways, we invite you to be our guest any time.

Another great year

Timberline ChurchSteve Hudson: Lead Teaching PastorGary Bock: Lead Pastor of Discipleship and AdministrationDon Morris: Pastor of Counseling and Worship MinistriesService times:Sundays 8:15 and 10:15 a.m.Children’s and Student Ministries: Sundays 8:35 and 10:35 a.m.


insurance advice By Ben Buenzow

N obody wants to learn that it’s too late to save for a satisfying retirement, but a

lot of Americans are on that path. The latest numbers from the Employee Benefit Research Institute indicate that 29 percent of employ-ees have less than $1,000 saved for retirement; 56 percent have less $25,000. To help avoid being an unhap-py statistic at retirement, you may want to consider these smart money moves. fund. Ornella Grosz, author of “Moneylicious: A Financial Clue for Generation Y,” says the easiest way to save is to set up automatic deduc-tions — either by percentage or dol-lar amount — from your paycheck. How much? “I say start small and build on it,” Grosz says, advising to try reserving 5 percent of your paycheck for retirement. If you don’t miss that money, try 7 percent, and if that works out, increase your savings to 10 percent. score. The higher your score, the lower your interest rate may be on loans, from your mortgage to your car. You can save thousands of dol-lars over your lifetime by keeping your credit score as high as possible. The surest way to a high credit score? Pay your bills on time, in full. And be sure to review your credit report at http://www.annualcreditre-port.com/ each year. purchases. If you buy a $2,999 TV on a credit card, and you make mini-mum monthly payments of $119.96

(4 percent of the debt), you’ll need 41 months to pay off the purchase. That means you are actually spending $4,918.36 on the TV — and, by the time you retire the debt, your TV may need to be replaced. incurring late fees. Many credit cards charge 10 percent of your bal-ance if you miss a payment deadline. On a $5,000 balance, that 10 percent fee represents a significant penalty. account. Unexpected expenses will always be a part of your life, but hav-ing money available in an emergency account can help soften the blow. A commonly held belief is to have three to six month’s living expens-es available, but accumulating that amount may be difficult when you’re first starting out. The important thing is to create the account and fund it regularly. Set an initial goal of put-ting $2,000 in an interest-bearing account, then build up the fund as your income grows. State Farm® has a variety of online calculators at http://www.statefarm.com/bank/resources/calcs.asp that can help you develop smart cost and savings strategies.

Smart money moves to make before age 35By Ben Buenzow, State Farm® agent

Strategies to help you save for retirement

Information provided by Ben Buenzow, State Farm Insurance, 3273 100th St., Urbandale, 270-8870.


what’s in your garage?

By Rebecca Boneschans

McCoy’s garage for small motor machinery

Different kind of motor

Contact Jared at 953-4822 ext. 306 or [email protected] to recommend someone for an upcoming issue of “What’s In Your Garage?”

Sarah McCoy in Studio South, with some of her hand-made creations.

Phot

o by

Reb

ecca

Bon

esch

ans

P arked in the small space of Sarah McCoy’s garage is not her family-toting wagon.

Granted, there are a few motors involved, just not the kind for running automobiles. The motors run three very large and very old letterpress machines. McCoy owns four letterpress machines ranging in dates from 1916 to the mid-1940s. Each press is used to create custom prints for her business, The Permanent Collection (www.thepermanent-collection.net). McCoy’s first letterpress purchase was the late 1950’s Vandercook SP-15. This hand-cranked press is located in her basement (aka Studio South) and works mostly with posters and small jobs of less than 500 sheets. The most recent additions, purchased in the fall of 2011, are the three larger presses in her garage (aka Studio North). There are two Chandler & Price machines dated at 1916 and 1923 and one Heidelberg Windmill Press from the 1940s. Each machine is hand-fed paper, but can be run by motors to handle the higher number print-ing jobs. The Heidelberg Windmill processes up to 5,000 custom prints per hour, while the other two are used for smaller jobs. Even though each press has its

own set of job descriptions, there is one thing that all three have in common. They were all purchased online. “These were all found on Craigslist,” says McCoy. “The first press I purchased was from a guy in Canada.” McCoy’s love for printing start-ed out as a hobby, stemming from a class she took during college. “I started just printing for peo-ple, just little things for friends,” says McCoy. “One of my first jobs was my cousin’s wedding invita-tion.” With the letterpresses located in her garage, McCoy stays close to home, where she can spend time with her husband and two young daughters. And, it’s some-thing that they can bond over. “My 3-1/2-year-old loves being down by the press,” says McCoy. “She’s always asking, ‘Mom, you want to print something?’ I won-der if in her little mind if she thinks every one else’s mom prints, too. It’s just a normal part of her life.” McCoy loves that she can work from home, but does often think about expanding. “I don’t know if I’ll stay out there forever,” McCoy says. “Some day I’ll look for some stu-dio space. Although, the commute is pretty great. I’m just heading out to the garage.”

HOME OF THE

GYRO!

2667 - 86th ST. URBANDALE 276-2558

Gyros Tenderloins Coneys Graziano’s

sausage Homemade

onion rings Salads Falafels Kid’s meals Bottled beer Burgers

and more!

MONDAY – SATURDAY 10:30am – 9:00pm

Now serving homemade TENDERLOINS!

DINE IN! CARRY OUT!

The 4-H Valley Pacers have been busy with community service projects. These kids, ranging from fourth to 10th grade, have made catnip toys for the Animal Rescue

League, donated bags of canned foods for National Make a Difference Day, made treat bags for the cancer treatment patients at the Mercy Cancer Center and

participated in the Toys for Tots toy drive.

out & about Submit photos to [email protected]

I n hopes of some mid-week fun with my husband, I suggested we venture out to Ruby Tuesday for

dinner. So, we took off with our stomachs rumbling. When we arrived, we realized that this was a popular place to be on a chilly Wednesday evening. The hostess greeted us with a smile and immediately took us to our booth. As we followed her to our table, we couldn’t help but notice the delicious-looking salad bar that we passed on our way back.

After we had been seated and our drink ordered had been taken, we looked around at the crowded restaurant packed with families, friends and couples. We both commented on how nice the restaurant was. Although we felt comfortable in casual clothes, there was certainly a place for those in work attire as well. We perused the menu and both decided on the barbecue grilled chicken, which fit in nicely with our resolutions to eat healthily in the new year. The selection is part

of the Fit & Trim options, which have the calorie count next to the description. With the option of two sides, we both tried to continue with the healthy trend. I stayed the course with my choice of sugar snap peas but cracked and ordered onion rings as my second side. For an extra few dollars per person, we ordered the salad bar as well. There was just no question after the hostess paraded us by the yummy options on our way in. On my trip to what I will nickname salad paradise, I loaded my plate high with a large salad topped with cheese, bacon, carrots and dress-ing. I added a side of pasta salad and was my back at my table in minutes, devouring my delicious salad. Our meals arrived quickly and were perfectly cooked. I started with my peas, which were a great combination of crispy and soft. My chicken was juicy and was compli-mented by the semi-sweet barbe-cue sauce on top. Last but not least, I tried an onion ring. It was every-thing I had hoped it would be, crispy and warm. Although a strange side choice with my meal, I will admit it was probably my favorite part. As we paid and left, we both decided that we would make sure to come back again soon. A place perfect for date night or a night out with friends, Ruby Tuesday made a great first impression.

Ruby Tuesday offers Fit & Trim choices

The juicy barbecue grilled chicken at Ruby Tuesday is a healthy and delicious dinner choice.

By Elaine Lenz

Healthy optionsPh

oto

by E

lain

e Le

nz

dining Submit ideas to [email protected]

Ruby Tuesday4900 N.W. 86th St. 278-4476Hours:Mon. - Sat.: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.Sunday: 8:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

June 18 – August 10, 2012

A CULTURAL DAY CAMP FOR KIDS OF ALL KINDS!

Give them the experience of a lifetime! Call today!

Grades K-9th

Engman Camp Shalom

For more information call 515-987-0899 ext.232or email [email protected]

Swimm

515-202-5406www.kbelectriciowa.com

Connecting Power with Service and Integrity

POOR KITCHEN LIGHTING?TIRED OF FLUORESCENT LIGHTING?UPGRADE TODAY AND GET THAT

CLEAN, WARM ANDCOMFORTABLELOOK THAT YOU ARE AFTER!



WEST DES MOINES

URBANDALE

AMES

SPRINGINTO

ACTION!

It’s been a long winter and you’ve been stuck inside.

Whether you’re looking for a biketo cruise the city streets or

the countryside, BIKE WORLD has the perfect bike for you!

OFF THE ROAD

ON THE ROAD

ON THE TRAIL

JUSTCRUISIN’


M iddle school can be a trying time for preteen students academically,

socially and emotionally, but Loren DeKruyf is here to help. The Urbandale Middle School counselor teaches a “Life Skills” class to sixth grade students, where he focuses on issues like bullying, substance abuse and the seven habits of highly effective pre-teens. He also mentors students one on one and in small group settings, emphasizing the impor-tance of academics, social skills and pursuit of a career. “Some students have issues that they bring to school, and the goal is to have them become well-rounded adolescents before they leave for high school,” says the 40-year-old DeKruyf, now in his 15th year of work as a counselor and teacher, including the last four at Urbandale Middle School. “When it comes to academ-ics, the school’s three counsel-ors work closely with teachers, students and parents in identi-fying and solving problems. We also work with students a lot on peer relationships and how to solve problems and to respect one another. Then we talk to kids about exploring a career and encourage them to dream big as they head off to high school,”

DeKruyf says. DeKruyf also helps students understand what they are feeling, giving them an emotional outlet. Such was the case in January when DeKruyf and his peers helped students cope with the death of Grace Chance, a 14-year-old Urbandale Middle School student who died of brain cancer. “It’s tough for kids to under-stand why things like that happen and we help them process what they are feeling,” DeKruyf says. No matter how the big the problem, DeKruyf says he enjoys helping students overcome obsta-cles. “I like seeing them make prog-ress,” he says. “It’s rewarding.”

4614 NW 84th Street Urbandale

Free will donation appreciated.

Urbandale Senior Center in

Pancake Breakfast

What do you like best about Mr. DeKruyf?

Brayden Washington: “I think he’s a nice guy. He’s probably the best counselor at school.”

Aaron Black: “He’s cool. He takes me out of class and plays basketball with me.”

Jane Rood: “He’s good to talk to if you have any problems. He’s a good teacher and counselor.”

Elena Ringo: “He’s really nice, and he makes all the classes super fun.”

Meet Loren DeKruyf

Loren DeKruyf teaches Life Skills to sixth grade students at Urbandale Middle

School as part of his job as counselor.

Counselor enjoys mentoring students

By Michael Swanger

Phot

o by

Mic

hael

Sw

ange

r

education Submit story ideas to [email protected]

JOHNSTON5601 Merle Hay Road

515.278.6300

URBANDALE4501 NW Urbandale Dr.

515.276.2900

GRINNELL814 - 4th Avenue

641.236.3174

MARENGO1101 Court Avenue

319.642.5511

POLK CITY205 Broadway Street

515.984.6211

a community bank close to home!

www.grinnellbank.com

Local, Family Owned BankCommitted to Urbandale

GRINNELLSTATE BANK


A re some students destined to struggle with math-ematics because they’re

inherently “not good at math?” According to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), the answer is no. In fact, all children can succeed in math with practice and reinforcement. Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of tutoring to students of all ages and skill levels, offers the following tips to strengthen math skills. By combining memorization of math facts and drills with real-life examples and activities, math is less scary and even becomes fun. require basic math skills. Chutes and Ladders® and RackO® develop number sense. “24” and Yahtzee® help computation speed and accuracy. math concepts before tackling new assignments. Starting with familiar concepts helps build your child’s retention and confidence. teacher for a schedule of math topics. Take time to develop two projects or exercises per week that will reinforce what your child is learning in class. -ples of math concepts. Draw or use pictures of animals and objects to show addition, subtraction, mul-tiplication, division and fractions. allowance, use it to create mathematical problems and teach him about saving. For older children, relate percentage problems to their allowance. a valuable math tool. Card games begin to teach the lesson of probability and reinforce addition

and subtraction memorization for children learning basic math facts. younger children to practice number facts to six. If they are stumped, they can count the dots to find the sum. child’s favorite sport. Ask him to calculate the number of points needed for his favorite team to win. Encourage him to create mul-tiple point combinations to reach that score. do math aloud and to explain the series of steps used to solve the problem. Use Sylvan Learning’s online Math Activity Booklet to help sustain and renew children’s interests in math. Visit the “Parent Resources” area of www.SylvanLearning.com and download or print 30 days of math writing topics, trivia, questions and puzzles. Remember, math instruction may be different today than in years past, but the basics are still the same. Keep a positive attitude about math and demonstrate the importance of this subject to your child. If your child needs additional help, don’t wait. Math concepts build on one another so it’s impor-tant to tackle difficulties when they arise. With practice, every child

All children can succeed at math

good grades Submit story ideas to [email protected]

By Sylvan Learning Center

Information provided by Sylvan Learning Center, 2963 100th St., 867-8000.

Number games can build child’s skill level


Q At what age should I start using sunscreen on my baby?

A The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says the best way to protect from the sun is to keep him in the shade of a tree, umbrella, or stroller and dress him in long sleeves and a hat. But if that’s not possible, it’s fine to use a small amount of sunscreen on his face and hands. For young children, the AAP recommends sunscreen made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Unlike the chemical sunscreens that the skin absorbs, which may cause irritation or allergic reactions, these ingredients merely sit on top of the skin, forming a barrier against the sun’s rays.

Mercy’s pediatric clinics are ready to care for the health care needs of your family. Our physicians and staff provide well child exams, sports and school physicals, immunizations and care for unplanned illnesses. Our clinics are conveniently located throughout Des Moines and its surrounding communities, and our central location offers extended hours on evenings and weekends for patients*.

Comprehensive Pediatric Care

www.mercyclinicsdesmoines.org

CEN

TRA

L*

Mercy Central Pediatric Clinic

(515) 643-8611 *extended hours available by appointment

EAST

Mercy East Pediatric Clinic

(515) 643-2600

JOH

NST

ON

Mercy Johnston Pediatric Clinic

(515) 643-6090

JORD

AN

CRE

EK

Mercy Jordan Creek Pediatric Clinic

(515) 643-9550

NO

RTH

Mercy North Pediatric Clinic

(515) 643-9000

WES

T

Mercy West Pediatric Clinic

(515) 222-7337


out & about Submit your photos and captions to [email protected]

UCAN Volunteer Erin Pasker with UCAN Board Members Tony Montgomery and Kris Winter at the UCAN Mardi Gras Gala at the Holiday Inn

Northwest on Feb. 18.

Kathryn Brush and Don Brush at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner at the

Ramada Tropics Conference Center on Feb. 2.

Addie Rasmusson and Morgan Voga at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner at

the Ramada Tropics Conference Center on Feb. 2.

Don Wolfe, Amber Raveling and Dawn Livingston at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual

Dinner at the Ramada Tropics Conference Center on Feb. 2.

Lisa Christiansen and Karrie Vander Sluis at the Vander Sluis Chiropractic ribbon cutting on Jan. 4.

Tim Carver, Darcy Carver, Chris Hinkhouse and Heath Hinkhouse at the UCAN Mardi Gras Gala

at the Holiday Inn Northwest on Feb. 18.

UCAN Coordinator Mary Polson with Urbandale Police Community Relations Officer Randy Peterson at the UCAN Mardi Gras Gala at the Holiday Inn

Northwest on Feb. 18.

Mayor Bob Andeweg and Karrie Vander Sluis cut the ribbon at Vander Sluis Chiropractic on Jan. 4.

Lyn Hilgenberg and Brian Hilgenberg at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner

at the Ramada Tropics Conference Center on Feb. 2.

Iyleene Lemon and Bob Lemon at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner at the


Bob Kollmorgen and Marilyn Kollmorgen at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner

at the Ramada Tropics Conference Center on Feb. 2.

Sarah Star and Bruce Star at the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner at the


www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale Urbandale Living MARCH | 2012

MARCH | 2012 Urbandale Living www.iowalivingmagazines.com/urbandale

CALL 727-5927to schedule your private tour!

Urbandale’s Premier Independent Living Community

Join us at

Designed for seniors who want to maintain their independent lifestyles, we offer value and choice in a beautiful environment. Our location has a lot to offer for today’s active seniors. Close to shopping, dining,

recreation, and health care services, yet quietly removed in a lovely area where you can enjoy nature and wildlife.

The Reserve is sponsored by Iowa Health and features an on-site wellness center. Our residents enjoy the convenience of our

amenities; we have a masterful woodshop, creative studio,

coffee shop, and many social opportunities.

Urbandale · PDF fileKids eat free on Thursdays! ... other until there simply wasn’t room to display them all in either of our homes. ... Urbandale Living magazine is a monthly publication

Documents