Ankeny Living - Iowa Living · PDF fileAnkeny Living magazine is a monthly publication of Big Green Umbrella Media, Inc., an Iowa corporation. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or

www.iowalivingmagazines.com/ankeny Ankeny Living FEBRUARY | 2015

LivingAnkenyfebruary 2015

50021/50023

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THE HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF THE ANKENY PUBLIC LIBRARY

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FEBRUARY | 2015 Ankeny Living www.iowalivingmagazines.com/ankeny

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

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

Julie [email protected]

WELCOME

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 fea-ture on an automobile was cruise control. Today 85 percent of the American popu-lation 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 surpris-es, 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.

Shane GoodmanPublisher

Turning pages at the library

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EXPERTS LIKE BONNIE KNOW

Please call 1-877-695-1306 for lunch and a tour.

4 Ankeny Living FEBRUARY | 2015 www.iowalivingmagazines.com/ankeny

On the cover: Sam Mitchel. Photo by Todd Rullestad.

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.

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29 Education

Meet Melissa Brenner

30 Recipe

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32 Chamber

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ADDRESS: 5619 N.W. 86th St., Suite 600, Johnston, IA 50131PHONE: 515.953.4822EDITORIAL: ext. 304ADVERTISING: ext. 319DISTRIBUTION: ext. 316DESIGN: ext. 313ACCOUNTING: ext. 316FAX: 515.953.1394WEB: www.iowalivingmagazines.com

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By Ashley Rullestad

FEATURE

F 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.

The Kirkendall giftClarence 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.

THE HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF THE KIRKENDALL PUBLIC LIBRARY

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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 dece-dent’s estate. Lee consulted his attorney, Francis Hall, in regard to the disposition of his estate. Helen Hall, Francis’ wife, was a public-spirited woman who felt that the situation offered an opportunity to benefit the Ankeny commu-nity 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 remain-der of his estate, after payment of all death expenses and distribution of specific bequests, was left to the town of Ankeny for the pur-pose of erecting, equipping and/

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

duties to get the library started.

A library is bornThe 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 start-ing. 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 approach-ing 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 cer-tainly 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.

FEATURE

Librarian Sherry Schlundt presents preschool story time at the library.

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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 park-ing. 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

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 resi-dents in attendance. The library then officially

began regular operations at noon the next day.

Growth and changeAfter a couple of short-tem library directors, Myrna Anderson, who was about to complete

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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 comput-ers,” she says. “There was no Internet. Now the materials that people can access electroni-cally 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 build-ing 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 todayThe 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 partici-pating 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 under-stand 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.”

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CALENDAR

Thursday Feb. 19

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

Intermediate Microsoft Excel 2013 Computer Class for Adults. Registration is required. Call the library at 965-6460 ext 5. 5:30-6:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Chess Mix. Hone your chess skills and meet new friends. Bring your own board or use one of ours, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Kirkendall Library.

Evening Book Discussion: “What is the What” by Dave Eggers, 7 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

AHS Wrestling: Varsity State Tournament vs. IHSAA, TBD

AHS Robotics Club Meeting 3:35 p.m., Southview Middle School - Room 2206

AHS After Prom, 7:30 p.m., AHS Career Center

ACHS Wrestling: Varsity State Tournament vs. Des Moines, 2 p.m., Iowa Events Center

ACHS Parent/Teacher Conferences, 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Friday Feb. 20

“Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 7:30 p.m., Ankeny Community Theatre


City Council Budget Retreat Tot Time. No structured activity

provided, 9:30 a.m., Kirkendall Library Meeting Room

AHS Basketball: 9/10/V vs. East, 4:45/6:15/7:45 p.m., @ DSM East

ACHS Basketball: 9/10/V vs. Ottumwa, 4:45/6:15/7:45 p.m.

ACHS Wrestling: Varsity State Tournament vs. Des Moines, 9 a.m., Iowa Events Center

Saturday Feb. 21



Ankeny Writers Group, “That’s the Spirit” by Debra Landwehr Engle, 9 a.m., Kirkendall Public Library

AHS Concert Band Performance, 8 a.m., Perry High School

AHS Basketball: Girls Varsity vs. Ames, 7 p.m., @ Ames HS

ACHS Band Concert, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Perry HS

ACHS Wrestling: Varsity State Tournament vs. Des Moines, 10 a.m., Iowa Events Center

ACHS Basketball: Girls Varsity Tournament, 7 p.m.

Sunday Feb. 22

“Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 2 p.m., Ankeny Community Theatre

Social Bridge. Partners are not necessary. There is place at the table for you, 3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

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

ACHS Choral Concert, 2-4 p.m.

Monday Feb. 23

ACHS Basketball: Boys Varsity Tournament, 7 p.m.

Social Cribbage. All levels of play-ers are welcome. Bring your favorite cribbage board or use one of ours. 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Park Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Parks & Recreation Office

Who Was? Book Club, for chil-dren 3rd-5th grade. Sign up by calling the Children’s Desk (965-6460, option 4) to participate, 6 p.m., Kirkendall Library

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


AMS Basketball: Boys 8th vs. Ames, 4:30 p.m., @ Ames MS

AHS Basketball: Boys Varsity vs. TBA, 7 p.m.

Tuesday Feb. 24

Toddler Story Time, a 15-20 min-ute theme based story time designed for 1- to 3-year-olds and their par-ents/ caregivers. Participants will be engaged in books, rhymes, count-ing activities and songs, 9:30 a.m., Kirkendall Library

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

Preschool ABC Story Time, a 20-25 minute alphabet theme based story time is designed for 4- to 6-year-olds and their parents/care-givers, 10:30 a.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Afternoon Book Discussion B, “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes, 1 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Larry Gets Lost Book Club, for children kindergarten-3rd grade. Please sign up by calling the Children’s Desk (965-6460, option 4) to par-ticipate, 3:15 p.m., Kirkendall Library Meeting Room

AMS Basketball: Boys 8th vs. Indian Hills, 7 p.m., @ Indian Hills

AHS Basketball: Girls Varsity Regional Tournament, 7 p.m.

ACHS Parent/Teacher Conferences, 4:30-8:30 p.m.

ACHS Basketball: Boys 8th vs. Johnston, 4:30 p.m., @ Johnston

ACHS Basketball: Girls Varsity Tournament, 7 p.m.

Ankeny Historical Society Meeting, 2 p.m.

Wednesday Feb. 25

Music Appreciation for All Ages,This program is led by Joan Jamison, MME. A short DVD will provide infor-mation and background. Major works by the composer will be presented and discussed, 12:15 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Genealogy Personal Assistance,Come with questions for individual help with your family search, 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Preschool ABC Story Time, a 20-25 minute alphabet theme based story time designed for 4- to 6-year-olds and their parents/caregivers, 1 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Thursday Feb. 26Grief Share, a support group for

people who are grieving the death of someone close to them, 6:30 p.m. St. Paul Lutheran Church

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

Budget Public Information Hearing, 5:30-6:30 p.m., City Hall - Council Chambers

English Learning Circle, a monthly gathering of adults who practice everyday conversational English and get to know the public library, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library


AMS Basketball: Boys 8th vs. Centennial, 4:30 p.m., @ Southview Middle School

AMS Swimming: 8th Meet vs. Johnston, 5 p.m., Ankeny YMCA

ACHS Swimming: 8th Meet vs. Johnston, 5 p.m.

Friday Feb. 27


Open Art Studio. The library provides the supplies, you bring the creativity, 9 a.m., Kirkendall Public Library

AHS Basketball: Boys Varsity Substate Tournament, 7 p.m.

ACHS Basketball: Boys Varsity Tournament, 7 p.m.

Saturday Feb. 28


Social Cribbage, All levels of play-ers are welcome. Bring your favorite cribbage board or use one of ours. 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

AHS Dance Team Winter Showcase, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Ankeny High School

AHS Vocal Music - Spring Concert, 7-9 p.m.

Sunday March 1

“Adam’s Eve,” $10-$15, 2 p.m., Ankeny Community Theatre

AHS Dance Team Winter Showcase, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday March 2

City Council Meeting (agenda will be available Friday before meeting) City Council Chambers


AHS Basketball: Girls Varsity State Tournament, TBD, Wells Fargo Arena

AMS Swimming: 8th Meet, 4:30 p.m., @ South East Polk


CALENDAR

ACHS Swimming: 8th Meet vs. Boone/Southeast Polk, 4:30 p.m., @ SEP

Tuesday March 3

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., Kirkendall Public Library

Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting, 5 p.m., Ankeny City Hall

Plan & Zoning Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ankeny City Hall

AHS Track: Varsity Meet vs. Wartburg, 3 p.m., @ Wartburg

AHS Band Concert, 4-9 p.m. AHS Basketball: Boys Varsity

Substate Tournament, 7 p.m. ACHS Track: Varsity vs.

Wartburg, TBD/3 p.m., @ Wartburg ACHS Band Concert, 7-9 p.m. ACHS Basketball: Boys Varsity

Tournament, 7 p.m.

Wednesday March 4

Children in the Middle, These classes are designed to help minimize the negative impact of divorce on chil-dren and educate parents about the needs of children whose parents are divorcing. Cost: $40, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

ACHS Basketball: Girls Varsity Tournament vs. IGHSAU, TBD, Iowa Events Center

Thursday March 5


Move & Groove Story Time, a 25-30 minute movement based story time is designed for children ages 3-6 who have a good imagination and who like to move, 10:30 a.m., Kirkendall Public Library


AHS Band Concert, 6:30 p.m. AMS Swimming: 8th Meet vs.

Marshalltown, 5 p.m., Ankeny YMCA ACHS Swimming: 8th Meet vs.

Marshalltown, 5 p.m. ACHS Show Choir Concert,

7 p.m., Sunday-2-4 p.m.

Friday March 6

ACHS Show Choir Concert, 7 p.m., Sunday-2-4 p.m.

Saturday March 7

ACHS Show Choir Concert, 7 p.m., Sunday-2-4 p.m.

AHS/ACHS Jazz Contest, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Hoover HS

AHS/ACHS Basketball: Girls Varsity State Tournament, TBD, Wells Fargo Arena

Chamber Chill 5k Run/Walk 2015, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Prairie Trail

Sunday March 8

ACHS Show Choir Concert, 7 p.m., Sunday-2-4 p.m.,

Sunday Scrabble. Scrabble enthu-siasts of all skill levels, ages 12 and older, are invited for a casual after-noon of Scrabble the second Sunday of the month in the library cafe, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Kirkendall Library

Monday March 9

Social Cribbage, All levels of play-ers are welcome. Bring your favorite cribbage board or use one of ours. 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Budget Public Information Hearing, 5:30 p.m., City Hall - Council Chambers

AHS Track: Girls Varsity vs. UNI, 11 a.m., @ UNI


ACHS Track: Girls Varsity vs. Cedar Falls, 3 p.m., UNI Dome

Tuesday March 10

Monthly Senior Lunch, for Ankeny citizens 60 years and older. Guests are invited to stay for bingo after lunch. Pre-registration is required and pay-ment is due at the time of registration, noon, Lakeside Center

Afternoon Book Discussion A, “The Dovekeepers” by Alice Hoffman, 1 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

AHS Track: Boys Varsity vs. UNI, 11 a.m., @ UNI

AMS Swimming: 8th Meet vs. Waukee, 4:30 p.m., @ Waukee

ACHS Swimming: 8th vs. Waukee, 4:30 p.m., @ Waukee

ACHS Track: Boys Varsity vs. UNI, 4:30 p.m., @ UNI

Wednesday March 11Mystery Book Discussion, “Sick of

Shadows” by Sharyn McCrumb, 1 p.m., Kirkendall Library

AHS/ACHS Basketball: Boys Varsity State Tournament, TBD, Wells Fargo Arena

Thursday March 12Grief Share, a support group for

people who are grieving the death of someone close to them, 6:30 p.m. St. Paul Lutheran Church


Sit and Knit. All ages and skill levels are welcome for a relaxing and informal afternoon knitting or crocheting, 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library


Friday March 13No School - Flex Day, Ankeny HS AHS/ACHS Basketball: Boys

Varsity State Tournament, TBD, Wells Fargo Arena

Saturday March 14AHS/ACHS Basketball: Boys

Varsity State Tournament, TBD, Wells Fargo Arena

Sunday March 15Checkers Anyone?, Stop by the

library cafe’ for a casual game of checkers and some friendly conversa-tion. Boards will be out, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Kirkendall Library

Monday March 16City Council Meeting (agenda will

be available Friday before meeting) City Council Chambers

No school - spring break AHS/ACHS Track: Girls Varsity

vs. ISU, 4 p.m., @ ISU

Tuesday March 17

No school - spring break Sit and Knit. All ages and skill

levels are welcome for a relaxing and informal afternoon knitting or cro-cheting, 6:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

English Learning Circle, practice Conversational English, 1-3 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

AHS/ACHS Track: Boys Varsity vs. ISU, 4 p.m., @ ISU

Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting, 5 p.m., Ankeny City Hall

Plan & Zoning Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ankeny City Hall

Wednesday March 18

No school - spring break All-Day Athlete Lock-In, designed

to expose boys and girls to a multi-tude of recreational opportunities dur-ing 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



No school - spring break 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-resi-dents, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Prairie Ridge Middle School

Chess Mix, Hone your chess skills and meet new friends, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library

Evening Book Discussion, “The Dinner” by Herman Koch, 7 p.m., Kirkendall Public Library



FINANCE

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A s you’ve no doubt noticed, your trips to the gas sta-tion 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:

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 finan-cial markets — and for the people who invest in them.

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 actu-ally a bigger lesson to be learned here: Don’t overreact to temporary

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 finan-cial markets. That’s why you can’t reconfigure your portfolio based on particular events, whatever they may be — oil price drops, interest-rate fluctuations, political squabbles at home, natural disasters in faraway lands, and so on. If you can keep from being over-ly 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 head-lines 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 tomor-row. 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.

What do low oil prices mean for investors?

Brian D. HerbelCFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor917 E. 1st St.Schneider’s Square, Ste. DAnkeny, IA 50021515-964-1010

Mark EllisonAAMS®Financial Advisor2505 SW White Birch Dr.Suite IAnkeny, IA 50023515-965-2473

Terry G. PeterAAMS® Financial Advisor2005 S Ankeny Blvd Suite 500 Ankeny, Iowa 50023515-965-6901

Tracy L. BurtAAMS® Financial Advisor1255 N. Ankeny Blvd.Suite 102Ankeny, IA 50023515-964-4404

Glenna TrosperAAMS®Financial Advisor1200 SW State St.Suite BAnkeny, IA 50023515-964-2089

Stacey S. KoeppenFinancial Advisor2005 S Ankeny Blvd Suite 500 Ankeny, Iowa 50023515-965-6901

Justin BjerkeFinancial Advisor2575 N. Ankeny Blvd.Suite 217Ankeny, IA 50023515-965-7582

Erik C. NiliusFinancial Advisor 1690 SE Delaware Ave.Suite 103Ankeny, IA 50021515-964-1471

Member SIPC

www.edwardjones.com

Travis PadgetFinancial Advisor2505 SW White Birch Dr., Suite 1Ankeny, IA 50023515-965-2473


FAITH

A s a child, almost noth-ing 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, hear-ing 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 “cel-ebrate” Lent by fasting, remov-ing 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 —

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 wor-ship 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.

Make the most of the gift of life while you can

By John Wagner, Ankeny First United Methodist Church

Ashes

Information provided by John Wagner. associate pastor, Christian Life Center, Ankeny First United Methodist Church.

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FITNESS

Q: Do I really need to wipe down every piece of workout equip-ment 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 environ-ment is easy and shows good gym etiquette.

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 hun-ger, leading to the overconsump-tion of food. By simply staying hydrated throughout the day and

drinking a glass of water before meals — with or without vin-egar —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 sup-presses enzymes responsible for breaking down sugar, producing a similar effect to that of Metformin. For that reason, it is very impor-tant that people with Type 2 diabetes consult with a registered dietitian before consuming a daily mixture of vinegar.

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 develop-ment. 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).

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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.

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M 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 pur-chase.

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: proper-ty 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.

list. Be honest about which fea-tures you must have and which you’d like to have. Handicap acces-sibility for an aging parent or special needs child is a must. Granite coun-tertops and stainless steel appli-ances are in the bonus category. Come up with your top five must-haves and top five wants to help you focus your search and make a logical, rather than emotional, choice when home shopping.

to live. Make a list of your top five community priorities, such as commute time, schools and rec-reational facilities. Ask your real estate agent to help you identify three to four target neighborhoods based on your priorities.

Have you saved enough money to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down-payment? 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 downpay-ment 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 high-er your monthly payment. Your downpayment size can also influ-ence 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 mort-gage insurance. Depending on the size of your loan, PMI can add hundreds to your monthly pay-ment. Check with your state and local government for mortgage and downpayment assistance programs for first-time buyers. 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.

REAL ESTATE

Information by Lisa Kaplan Gorden, provided by Bonnie Christensen, broker, ReMax Opportunities, 1810 S.W. White Birch Circle, Suite 104, Ankeny, 971-9973.

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I f you’ve ever wanted to try out a 3D printer, a green screen, robotic or a sewing machine, the

Kirkendall Public Library’s maker-space 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 down-load 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, cam-era parts and even prototypes and mockups. In addition to the 3D printer, the Hatch also provides a sophis-ticated 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 equip-ment 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.

Want to learn more about the makerspace? The Kirkendall Public Library is hosting an information-al 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 pub-lic. Come and learn about what you can create in the Hatch.

LIBRARY NEWS

Kirkendall Public Library1210 N.W. Prairie Ridge Drive515-965-6460Hours:Mon. - Thurs.: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Fri. - Sat.: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sunday: 2-5 p.m.

Unleash your creativity at Kirkendall Public Library

By Nicholas Janning

Hatch an ideaThe AV lab in the library’s Hatch offers cutting-edge tools and technology.

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:

Ankeny with $106.5 million. The second highest year was 2012 with $100 million.

Ankeny with $205.5 million. The second highest year was 2013 with $191 million.

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 pri-vate 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 sec-tors, 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.

NEWS BRIEF

Ankeny sets all-time record for construction

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D uring the past few months we’ve talked about the six pillars of a healthy brain.

Let’s review those:

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 pres-sure, ulcers or extreme nervous-

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 anxi-ety 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 bless-ing — providing meals, medica-tion management, socialization and other services that make everyday life just a little less stressful.

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 medita-tion. A strong spiritual life can be a great brain booster and help pro-tect 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_treat-ment.htm.

Information provided by Shelly Charter, Valley View Village, 2571 Guthrie Ave., Des Moines, 265-2571.

SENIOR LIVING

Anxiety affects many of the elderly

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Managing stress

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WHERE WE LIVE

A mere five years ago, the Cook fam-ily 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 mar-ried,” Janaha says. “We wanted to move to a home that was ‘ours.’ We sought a neighbor-hood to fit the next stage of our life which included starting and raising a family. The repu-tation 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 develop-ment, 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

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 neigh-borhood 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 neigh-borhood 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 out-of town-family,” she says. “In addition we enjoy our ‘toy room’ off of our kitchen.” The open space allows the family to inter-act 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.

The Cook family and their home in the Sienna Hills development. Photo by Amy Kort.

Would you like your home featured in this column in an upcoming issue of Ankeny Living? If so, email Darren Tromblay at [email protected].

Cooks choose Ankeny for their life as a familyBy Amy Kort

A home that’s theirs


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T ucked inside Ryan Brown’s garage are some old hand tools — a mallet, a wood-

handled 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 grand-parents’ 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 actu-ally got third place one year. I was stoked and remember bragging to Grandpa about it.” According to Ryan, his grandfa-ther 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

had to figure things out on my own. That way I learned it faster, remem-bered 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.

Contact Darren at 953-4822 ext. 304 or [email protected] to recommend someone for an upcoming issue of “What’s In Your Garage?”

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.

WHAT’S IN YOUR GARAGE

Brown remembers his grandpa

By Patti Stockdale

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WELLNESS

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 ftentimes in my office, I will examine a patient who presents with low-back

pain that has eluded multiple spe-cialists. This patient has typically undergone pain medications, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, phys-ical therapy and epidural steroid injections, yet still has not obtained any significant relief. Diagnostic imaging such as MRI will usually show single-level degenerative disc disease and herniation, often at the lower lumbar spine, without any known injury. The typical scenario is of a patient aged 25 to 50 who seems healthy in all aspects, except for constant nagging low-back and sometimes leg pain that worsens the longer he or she is standing. When I see this situation, my first inclination is to rule out an ana-tomical leg-length inequality, caused by an anatomically short bone in the leg. It should be noted that anatomi-cal (structural) leg-length inequality is entirely different from and should not be confused with physiologi-cal (functional) leg-length inequality. Physiological leg-length inequality is due to muscular imbalances, not bone length. So why does anatomi-cal leg-length inequality leading to back pain often get overlooked? It’s very simple: every diagnostic test such as X-ray, CT scan and MRI performed in a medical and hospital setting prior to my consultation has had the patient lying on his or her back. One can not evaluate the effects of gravity on the spine, hips, knees and ankles with the patient lying on his or her back. The patient must be standing when the X-ray is taken to make accurate leg-length measurements. Also, if you have ever experienced severe back pain, lying on your back is about the only comfortable position you will find. Taking an X-ray with the patient lying comfortably on his back when the patient has pain while standing, is like performing a cardiac stress

test on a patient while he is sleeping. It makes no sense. A majority of people have a measurable anatomical leg-length difference of a quarter-inch or more, although most people adapt to the difference with no apparent ill effects. Unfortunately, some do not. The ill effects range from low-back or sacroiliac pain to hip, knee or foot problems. A number of causes can con-tribute to leg-length discrepancy, including the following:

bone, particularly during growth years.

uneven growth.

the muscles and connective tissue, a common after-effect of polio.

especially common after hip- or knee-replacement surgery.

elsewhere in the body, such as pel-vic or spinal scoliosis. These biomechanical adapta-tions and compensations for even a slightly short leg can have long-term side effects, manifesting as low-back pain, hip and knee pain, uneven gait and various foot and lower-leg problems. These problems are often related to the bodily adapta-tions that occur due to continuous unbalanced movement and can be aggravated by the stresses of sports activities such as running. The diagnosis and treatment of such leg-length differences and their effects is the subject of volumes of medical history and research. Our office uses a specific protocol to diagnose and correct this condition without the use of drugs or surgery. If you or someone you know is suffering from back pain and have not found the relief for which you are looking, please contact our office. We may be able to help you.

Condition leads to back pain

By Christopher M. Renze, DC, DIBCN

Anatomical short leg

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HEALTH

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 fac-tors: 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, espe-cially 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.

Information provided by Laura Kimm, RD, LD , Registered Dietitian, North Ankeny Blvd. Hy-Vee, 410 N. Ankeny Blvd. , Ankeny, 515-964-0900.

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 low-fat 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.

Making lives easier, healthier, happier.

410 North Ankeny Blvd.Ankeny 515.964.0900

2510 SW State StreetAnkeny 515.963.3139

Laura Kimm, RD, [email protected]

Anne Hytrek, MSEd, RD, LD, CDE [email protected]

Jenny Norgaard, RD, [email protected]

Cooking for Heart-HealthSaturday, February 21

11:00am–12:00pmNorth Ankeny Blvd. Hy-Vee

$15/personLearn what it means to eat

a heart-healthy diet and what heart-healthy cooking

really looks like.

Registration is required

Ladies’ Night Out

Thursday, February 266:00pm–8:00pm

Prairie Trail Hy-Vee$25/person. 21 and Up

Food, wine,chair massagesand photo booth.

Registration is required

515-964-8550*Only at Medicap Pharmacy,

107 NE Delaware Ave, Suite 6, Ankeny Monday - Friday 8:30-6:30, Saturday 8:30-2

MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED

Free Blood Pressure check

at our pharmacy!Walk-ins are welcome.

515-964-8550M-F8:30am-6:30pm, Sat.8:30am-2pm 107 NE Delaware Ave, Suite 6, Ankeny

Love your h

eart

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.

No purchase required. Available during regular business hours in February.

February is Heart Month

a little

more this F

ebruary


Q: How serious is the measles?A: The Center for Disease Control reports that in January 2015, 68 peo-ple 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 cough-ing 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 encepha-litis (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.

Information provided by Dr. Erika Peddicord, Peddicord Family Dentistry, 121 N.E. 18th St., Suite C, 963-3339.

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.

Children’s checkups. Just like adults, children should have a den-tal 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. 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. 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.

HEALTH

Information provided by Dr. Douglas Layton, D.O., 2515 S.W. State St., Ankeny, 515-964-6999.

121 NE 18th Ave. Ste. C Ankeny963-3339 www.ankeny amilydentist.com

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.

Care coordinated around you.

At UnityPoint Clinic, getting you healthy and keeping you that way is important to us.

000647e.dm2-3 1/15 CSunitypoint.org

Family Medicine Urgent Care – Ankeny1105 N. Ankeny Blvd.Suite 100 (515) 964-4600

Family Medicine Prairie Trail 2515 SW State St. Suite 200 (515) 964-6999

Internal Medicine Prairie Trail2515 SW State St. Suite 100(515) 964-6929

OB/GYN909 SW Oralabor Rd.(515) 965-0300

Pediatrics909 SW Oralabor Rd.(515) 963-4400


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.

on hydration. Stick to eight glasses of water a day.

skin as you can. The skin on your fingers and toes is particularly suscep-tible to frostbite and windburn.

reflecting snow on the ground.

winter’s night can strip your skin of much of its moisture.

artificially-heated air with much-needed moisture. At-Home Care Company can help keep you safe and protected dur-ing the winter months. Call 515-963-4410 to talk to our staff.

Q: How can I protect my children against eye injuries?A: Some of you may have seen the recent Nationwide commercial dur-ing 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 recommend-ed 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 elimi-nate 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.

Information provided by Chelsea Spear, At-Home Care Company, 1513 N. Ankeny Blvd., Suite 4, Ankeny, 515-963-4410.

HEALTH

Information provided by Dr. Erik Romsdahl, Child and Family Vision Center, 2525 N. Ankeny Blvd., Suite 109, Ankeny, 964-7541.

Q: How can I protect my parents’ skin from winter?

2525 N. A S . 109 A96 - 5 1 . .

E M. R , O.D.Residency trained in pediatrics and vision therapy/rehabilitation

Specializing in pediatrics and vision therapyWe 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.

nd us on cebook

1513 N. Ankeny Blvd.Suite 4 | Ankeny

At-Home Care Company is devoted to assisting older adults throughout central Iowa in maintaining an independent lifestyle at home.

Insured | Bonded

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Light/deep housekeeping | Laundry | Meal preparationEscorts and errands | Medicine reminders | Personal care

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515.963.4410No contracts and no minimums


M elissa Brenner began her seventh year teach-ing 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. “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 shar-ing her faith with her little learn-ers. “Being at ACA, our biggest pri-ority isn’t necessarily the academ-ics — 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

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 learn-ing 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.”

EDUCATION

Kindergarten teacher loves her job

By Ashley Rullestad

Meet Melissa Brenner

What’s your favorite thing about school?

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.”

Q: I have knee pain when I run. Can chiropractic help?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. Sprain-strain 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 com-pensate, 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, run-ning 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 con-tinue to compensate and the pain can work its way up from your knees to your low back, as it is all connected.

Information provided by Nicole Olson, DC, CACCP, Olson Chiropractic Health Center, 1510 S.W. Oralabor Road, Suite B, Ankeny, 289-1015.

Melissa Brenner teaches kindergarten at Ankeny Christian Academy. Photos by Ashley Rullestad.

HEALTH

1510 SW ORALABOR ROAD, SUITE B ANKENY

www.olsonchirohealthcenter.com

NICOLE OLSON, DC, [email protected]

MON, TUE, THU8am–6pm

FRI 8am–5pm

SATby appointment

Providing quality chiropractic care and empowering each person

to live towards their maximum potential!

289.1015

Focus on family wellness Nutrition information and services Certified in prenatal and

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RECIPE

R 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.

Family favorite stir fryIngredients2 tablespoons olive oil2 pounds round steak (cut in bite-size pieces)2/3 cup water2/3 cup soy sauce2 tablespoons sugar2 cups celery (diced)1-2 cups green onions with tops (chopped)2 green peppers (cut in thin strips1 red pepper (cut in thin strips)1 cup carrots (sliced thin)2 cans water chestnuts1 can mushrooms1 package frozen stir-fry vegetables2 tablespoons corn starch

3 tablespoons waterDirectionsHeat 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.

Stir things up

By Marchelle Walter Brown

Recipe is easy to pull together

Call 515-225-3603 or email [email protected] for more information

WEST CAMPUS720 S 68th Street

ANKENY CAMPUS6950 NE 14th Street #36

www.2foruchildcare.comWDM ANKENY

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OUT AND ABOUT

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

The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual dinner on Feb. 5.

Annual Chamber dinner


F 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 honor-ing 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 think-ing 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 host-ing our chip timed 5K run this year. Our runners will be think-ing warm thoughts as they run or walk decked out in Hawaiian

themed attire. We are excited to offer a free kids fun run after the timed run as well. Our Chill run-ners can warm up and visit with friends at Jethro’s Lakehouse for our after party. This family-friendly 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.

CHAMBER NEWS

Ankeny Chamber connects at annual dinner

By Jennifer Walter, Chamber president

Feel the love in February


OUT AND ABOUT

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

The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual dinner on Feb. 5.

A time for recognition


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MEET SINGLES RIGHT NOW! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange mes-sages and connect live. Try it free. Call now: 800-357-4970

Loving, professional Pet Care

in your home Mid-day dog walks

Curt’s Creature Comfort

Serving Northwestern Polk County, 50021, 50023, 50111, 50131, 50310,

50311, 50312, 50313, 50322

BONDED AND INSURED

943-2301 www.curtscreaturecomfort.com 964-9492

1329 SW Ordinance RdAnkeny

www.iowalivingmagazines.com/ankeny Ankeny Living FEBRUARY | 2015

FEBRUARY | 2015 Ankeny Living www.iowalivingmagazines.com/ankeny

Vintage Hills Cooperative at Prairie Trail II

Call today to discover the many advantages of cooperative living. Contact Julie at:

own your share. share your story.

HOME OWNERSHIP WITH COMMUNITY

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.

Now is the Best Time to Reserve Your Home at Vintage Hills Cooperative at Prairie Trail II

“Vintage Cooperative offers shared ownership in a community of like-minded people 55+. The ability to downsize to a brand new community that is maintenance free, has a secure equity appreciation and great tax deductions are just a few reasons why I chose the cooperative lifestyle.”

Tom A., Vintage Cooperative MemberVintage Cooperative at Prairie Trail, Ankeny, IA

Bob & Sharon T., Vintage Cooperative MembersVintage Cooperative at Prairie Trail, Ankeny, IA

WHAT OUR MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE COOPERATIVE LIFESTYLE.“We want to remain active mentally, physically, and socially, as we age—all possible with the community lifestyle of a cooperative, exercise room, walking trail, social room and library. We have only lived here a few months, but simply, it feels like home! ”

DON’T DELAY - OVER 60% RESERVED!

COOPERATIVE

Documents

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