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And the And the awards awards go to... go to... PLEASANT HILL News from your community ALTOONA HERALD-INDEX MARCH 2012 Volume 11, Issue 3 the edge Pleasant Hill Chamber announces annual award winners, including volunteer of the year Kevin Harvey Jr. Page 12:

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A publication dedicated to covering life in Pleasant Hill, Iowa.

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And theAnd theawardsawardsgo to...go to...

PLEASANT HILL

News from your community

ALTOONA HERALD-INDEX

MARCH 2012

Volume 11, Issue 3the edge

Pleasant Hill Chamber announces annual awardwinners, including volunteer of the year Kevin Harvey Jr.Page 12:

2 i MARCH 2012

Financial tips fromEdward JonesDon’t play politics withyour investmentdecisionsPage 15

Pleasant HillCommunicatorPages 7-10

Pleasant HillChamber ofCommercePage 11

On the coverKevin Harvey Jr. wasnamed Volunteer ofthe Year by thePleasant Hill Chamberof Commerce. (AdamWilson/Herald-Index)

Inside

Visit altoonaherald.com for a full update fromthe state wrestling tournament where SEP170-pound senior Alex Meyer (left) and 10 otherRams competed.

State wrestling

community

Calendar of local events ................................................................................3

Briefs ....................................................................................................................6

news

Powerful message ............................................................................................4

P. Hill Chamber announces annual awards..............................................12

Sue Denny: Sexes wired to be much different........................................14

Edward Jones: Don’t play politics with your investment decisions ...16

Your stories this month

The Edge

News from your communityA subsidiary of the Des Moines

Register & Gannett Corp.

PUBLISHED MONTHLYPhone: 699-7000

Fax: 699-7098Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Send address changes to:Des Moines Register

P.O. Box 957Des Moines, IA 50306-0957

© Des Moines Register and Tribune Co.

Edge Staff

EDITORIALEditor

Adam Wilson, 699-7028

Staff WriterTimothy Meinch, 699-7030

Copy EditorsAndrea Houghton

Susie Kling

ADVERTISINGAdvertising ManagerTrisha Nixon, 699-7027

Account ExecutiveDiane Leggett, 699-7091

Circulation/Classified ads699-7000

IW-9000324115

5900 E. University Ave.Pleasant Hill

643-2400Clinic Hours:

Family Practice • Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.Urgent Care • Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.,

Sat. - Sun. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

John RhodesM.D.

Casey ClorM.D.

Illa ChandaniM.D.

Priscilla RuheM.D.

Jennifer AblerDO

Amy LambertiPA-C

Stacy DavisPA-C

Reagan BarryPA-C

Steven StrangDO

Sally BennettPA-C

Joseph McGargillM.D.

MARCH 2012 i 3

Sophia Savage is thereader of the month atPleasant Hill PublicLibrary.

Savage, 10, is afourth-grader at Pleasant

Hill Elementary and thedaughter of Jamie Savage.

She enjoys computersand designing clothes andher favorite book is“Bridge to Terabithia.”

reader of the month

Sophia Savage

Sophia Savage - Reader of the Month March 2012

Planning and zoningThe Planning and

Zoning Commission willmeet at 5:30 p.m. Monday,March 5, at City Hall.

Parks and RecreationThe Parks and

Recreation Commissionwill meet at 6 p.m.Thursday, March 8, at CityHall.

Chamber of CommerceThe Chamber of

Commerce meets firstTuesday of each month at 1p.m. in the conferenceroom at the chamberoffice, 5160 Maple Dr. Callthe chamber at 261-0466.

SEP School BoardThe Southeast Polk

Board of Educationbusiness meeting is thethird Thursday of everymonth beginning at 5:30p.m. For more information

visitwww.southeastpolk.org.

City CouncilThe City Council meets

at 6:30 p.m. the second andfourth Tuesdays of themonth at City Hall, 5160Maple Dr. A councilworkshop is scheduled for5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March20.

Public LibraryPleasant Hill Public

Library hours are10 a.m. to8 p.m. Monday throughThursday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday; and 1 to 4 p.m.Sunday.

B.E.S.T. Program:Bringing Education andSeniors Together amonthly day trip. Call thelibrary at 266-7815 formore information.

Library board: 5 p.m.Thursday, March 22.

Book discussion: Thefourth Monday of eachmonth at 7 p.m. Forinformation, call thelibrary at 266-7815.

Li‘bear’y Story Time: 10and 10:30 a.m. Wednesdaysand Thursdays. Stories andcrafts for preschoolers.

Crafts: 4 p.m. everyWednesday.

Beginning crochet: 6p.m. Wednesday, March 28.

Family Movie Night: 6-8p.m. Thursday, March 15.

Free tax helpAARP Foundation

Tax-Aide will offer free taxpreparation to residentswith low and moderateincome from 10 a.m. to 2p.m. Wednesdays throughApril 11 at Pleasant HillPublic Library. Service isprovided on a first come,first served basis withspecial attention to those 60years and older.

Cub ScoutsCub Scouts Pack 98

meets at 6:30 p.m. the firstThursday of every monthat the Pleasant Hill ElksLodge. The troop acceptsredeemable cans andbottles on the firstSaturday of each month atthe Pleasant Hill Hy-Vee.Call 264-0560 forinformation.

TOPSTake Off Pounds

Sensibly meets at 8:45 a.m.every Wednesday and 6p.m. every Thursday atBerean Assembly of GodChurch, 5225 E. Universityin Pleasant Hill. CallNorma Holcomb at262-2600 or SherryVeldhuizen at 262-2235 forinformation.

Enter your Edge calendar itemsonline at www.altoonaherald.comunder the ‘Submit Events’ link.

calendar

IW-9000315725

Independent LivingAssisted Living and Memory Care

1500 Edgewater DrivePleasant Hill, IA 50327

515.262.4444visit us online at www.theshoreslife.com

We comply with the Fair Housing Act.

Creativity.

Valley View Village Offers:

Did You Know?

A Community of care for any need!A Community of care for any need!2571 Guthrie Ave. • Des Moines265-2571 • www.elimcare.org

SKILLED CARELONG TERM CARESPEECH, PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONALTHERAPYINDEPENDENT LIVINGASSISTED LIVINGMEMORY CARE

IW-9000324120

4 i MARCH 2012

Chrisy"Saber"Evers of ThePower Teamprepares tobreak cinderblocks Jan.29 during aperformanceat Rising SunChurch ofChrist.

Jamie Morrison of The Power Team holds the microphoneclose to 'Timber' Matt Dopson so the crowd could hear thelinks break when he broke out of handcuffs.

The Power Team brings strength based ministry to east Polk County

Jamie Morrison, vice president of The Power Team, finds the breaking point of a soda can during a performance Jan. 29at Rising Sun Church of Christ in Pleasant Hill. Based in Dallas, Texas, The Power Team is a strength based ministry thatwas founded in 1975. Power Team members including Morrison, Matt “Timber” Dopson and Chrisy “Saber” Evers drewhundreds of fans to their shows last week at Rising Sun and reached more than 2,000 students during school visitsaround central Iowa. ADAM WILSON/HERALD-INDEX PHOTOS

Powerful message

Thankyou to thecommunity for all your support over theyears. We look forward to seeingyour smiling faces. -The Altoona Campus FamilyBEST FAMILY RECREATION SITE & BEST FITNESS CENTER

Guaranteed Results?Guaranteed Results? with…10.TEN-thousandsquare-foot

gym

7.SEVENdays aweek of

Free fitnessclasses

8.EIGHT

membershipcategories

9.NINE

aquaticsprograms

6.SIX-lane

heatedpool

5.FIVE-

thousandpounds offree weights

2.TWOfull

indoorgyms

4.FOUR

in-housepersonaltrainers

3.THREEnew

racquetballcourts

1ONEWe can’t think of

reason why you shouldn’t join.

With all of this going for you, we’ll all but GUARANTEE your weight will find the right number here.(If not, we could always give you your old body back.)

1500 8th Street SW, Altoona • (515) 967-0788www.altoonacampus.com • [email protected]

IW-9000323615

RE/MAX OpportunitiesEach Office Independently Owned and Operated

490-8025490-8025www.Penn i eCa r ro l l . com

509 Stonegate • $349,000

1107 Blackstone Lane • $99,000

157 - 25th Pl • $174,900

2212-4th Ave SE • $229,000

5625 SE 14th Pl • $164,900 1995 Copper Wynd • $21,000

604 Stonegate • $287,500

7901 SE 6th Ave • $44,900

4900 Copper Creek Dr • $249,9005200 Copper Creek DR • $284,900

2620-11th St SW • $212,000

3004-19th St • $189,9001016-5th St NW • $139,900

PLEASANT HILLPLEASANT HILL

PLEASANT HILLPLEASANT HILL

RUNNELLSRUNNELLS

787 SE 61st St • $28,000 1985 Copper Wynd Ct • $21,000

SE 6th Ave/SE 13th Ave • 75K-59K

215 Dorr Ct • $169,900

ALTOONAALTOONA

RUNNELLSRUNNELLS

3299-3243 SE 166th • $119,500

PLEASANT HILLPLEASANT HILL

4880 Windsor Cir • $37,900

P E NN I E C A R RO L L & A S SO C I AT E S

1965 Copper Wynd Ct • $21,000

127 35th St SW • $215,000

515-10th Ave NW • $134,900 833 Red Hawk Way SE • $118,5001009-3rd St NW • $149,500 603-17th Ave SW

6334 Little Leaf Lane • $99,500

301 W McKinney • $94,000

328-10th St SW • $209,000

5186 Windsor Court • $164,900

300 W Hancock • $149,000

IW-9000324116

LOTLOTCOPPER CREEKCOPPER CREEK

LANDLAND8.28 ACRES8.28 ACRES

LANDLAND.93 ACRES.93 ACRES

LOTSLOTSTRIPLE ESTATESTRIPLE ESTATES

KimberleyDevelopmentVenbury1814 3rd Ave SW$329,900• 5 Beds • 3 Bath

ClarityConstructionIron Wood2335 Hearthstone Ct. SW$560,000• 5 Beds • 5 Bath

Iron CrestHomesIron Wood2343 Hearthstone Cir SW$425,000• 3 Beds • 3 Bath

380 NE 56th St • $205,0005250 Jordan Blvd • $339,000 4870 Windsor Ct • $37,500 1975 Copper Wynd • $21,000 4560 Parkridge • $129,900 220 Linden Blvd • $149,000

ALTOONAALTOONA RHODESRHODES

LOTLOTCOPPER CREEKCOPPER CREEK

LOTLOTCOPPER CREEKCOPPER CREEK

LANDLAND.474 ACRES.474 ACRES

LANDLANDCOPPER CREEKCOPPER CREEK

LOTLOTCOPPER CREEKCOPPER CREEK

LOTLOTCOPPER CREEKCOPPER CREEK

LANDLAND.477 ACRES.477 ACRES

6 i MARCH 2012

Lions Club offerstwo scholarships

The Pleasant Hill LionsClub will award two $500scholarships to areastudents this year.

To obtain an application,contact the Pleasant HillPublic Library, 5151 MapleDrive, (515) 266-7815.Requests for applicationsare also available at theDes Moines East HighSchool and Southeast PolkHigh School guidanceoffices. Applications aredue March 31.

Any student, regardlessof the school they attend,and students beinghome-schooled arewelcome to apply,including post-secondarystudents. Award of thescholarship is not limited toPleasant Hill applicants,but preference will begiven to residents.

The Lions Club meets at7 p.m. the first and thirdMondays of the month atDoanes Park Youth Centerin Pleasant Hill.

Donate cans andbottles to help kids

The Des Moines schooldistrict’s CommunityEducation Department isholding a can and bottledrive for a scholarshipfund that will help pay forelementary and middleschool students toparticipate in youth

programs.The fundraiser is

ongoing. If you have cansand bottles with the Iowa5-cent refund and wish todonate them, call (515)242-8525 to arrangedrop-off or pickup.

Little Leagueextends registration

With a surprisingly lownumber of youth signed upfor Pleasant Hill LittleLeague, league directorsare extending theregistration deadline toMarch 15.

As of Feb.14, 92 kids hadsigned up to participate inthe summer season,compared to about 180youth who participated inlast year’s season. Leagueadministrators sayneighboring communitieshave also seen a decline innumbers.

“We were at first veryalarmed,” former PHLLVice President DavePeterson said. “Then welearned other leagues inthe area are reporting thattheir numbers are alsodown.”

Peterson, who has beeninvolved with PHLL since1977, and others say thecause of the decline is atleast two fold: growingpopularity of tournamentleagues – such as the RamsBaseball Club and theUnited States SpecialtySports Association – andthe tough economy.

Peterson said the leaguehas worked with a numberof parents who requestedthey make their payment,between $70 and $90, inMarch and April afterreceiving tax returns.

League directors saythey hope many more kidswill show up and registerbefore the deadline.

“Normally in the pastwe’ve had the majority ofour kids by now,” Petersonsaid.

SEP student paperearns Gallup Award

Rampage, SoutheastPolk’s student newspaper,has earned Gallup Awardstatus in the annual newsevaluation serviceconducted by Quill andScroll, an internationalhonor society for highschool journalists.

Only one other highschool in the state,Davenport West, and 24schools nationwide wereawarded this status, thehighest distinctionattainable in thecompetition. Newspapersreceiving the George H.Gallup Award representthe nation’s bestpublications and mustachieve a minimum of 925of 1,000 possible points injudging along with earning“superior” achievementstatus in each of thecompetition’s fivecategories.

Briefs

Rent Specials!Limited Time Offer!$99 Deposit!

IW-9000320911

Pleasant Hill Family DentistryGregory J. Konchar, D.D.S.

265-6484Member of:

• Delta Dental • Principal • Select •Wellmark

5075 E. University Ave. Ste A, Pleasant Hill(Directly east of 5&Diner)

IW-9000324118

CommunicatorMarch 2012 • www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us

PLEASANT HILL

Pleasant HillSPRING CLEAN-UPIS GOING CURBSIDE!

Pleasant Hill is having a spring clean-up for Pleasant Hill residents.It will be held on

Saturday, April 28 from 8:00a.m. until Noon.This program is being held in conjunction with the scrap tire program.

Solid waste will be picked up CURBSIDE this year.Place solid waste at the curb no later than 8a.m.

• SOLID WASTE ONLY •Solid waste means garbage, refuse, rubbish, and other similar

discarded solid or semisolid materials.

Yard waste, hazardous materials, appliances, electronics, andmajor auto parts will NOTwill NOT be accepted.

Appliance & Scrap Metal canbe dropped off at city hall, as in past cleanups.

HAZARDOUS WASTE MATERIALSIf you have items that fall within the unacceptable category,

such as lead acid batteries, waste oil, antifreeze, lawn fertilizer,pesticides, pool chemicals or oil based paint,

these items may be taken to

The Regional Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center225 Prairie Drive SW, Bondurant, Iowa. 515-967-5512

SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 20128a.m. until Noon

Pleasant Hill City Hall Parking Lot5160 Maple Drive, Pleasant Hill

Midwest Recovery will be accepting your junk appliances & electronics.MICROWAVES RIDING MOWERS WALK BEHIND MOWERS

BACK YARD GRILLS BATTERIES COMPUTER CPU’SGENERAL SCRAP METAL VIDEO GAMES STOVES DVD PLAYERS

VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS WASHERS & DRYERS CELL PHONESDISHWASHERS PRINTERS & COPIERS AIR CONDITIONERS

FURNACES REFRIGERATORS VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS VCR’S

TELEVISIONS & MONITORSAll appliance and electronics can be disposed of for FREE,except for televisions & monitors:18 inches & under $ 7.00 19 to 25 inches $12.00 26 to 32 inches $17.0033 to 40 inches $22.00 41 inches & up $27.00 Console TV’s $27.00

NOT ACCEPTED: Appliances filled with food ∙ Tires ∙ Plastics or Garbage ∙ Chemicals/Paint

Appliance& ScrapMetalDropOff

SCRAP TIRE PROGRAMSponsored by METRO WASTE AUTHORITY

SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 20128:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.

Drop Off Site: West Parking Lot of Library5151 Maple Drive

Open to Pleasant Hill residents onlyLimit: 5 passenger tires or truck tires (on/off rim)Only residential passenger car & truck tires can beaccepted & recycled by METRO WASTE AUTHORITY

Large oversized tires such as semi, farm & tractor tires can be deliveredto Metro Park East Landfill. Fees range from $5 to $110 per ton. Moreinformation can be obtained by calling 333-4450.

NO TIRES WILL BE ACCEPTED FROM BUSINESSESNO LARGE SEMI-TRAILER, FARM TRACTOR OR SOLID TIRES, SUCH

AS GOLF CART, FORK LIFT OR MOWER TIRES, WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Solid tires, such as golf cart, forklift and mower tires may be disposedof with the regular trash, as these tires are not banned from landfills &cannot be recycled. Call 967-2076 for more information.

CommunicatorPLEASANT HILL

Fully Insured • PDP Certified • BMI Licensed • Member of Clogging Association

YOUTH CENTERATDOANES PARK5050 Doanes Park Road, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327

Call TERA for more information: 515-491-2548Email: [email protected]

Classes are on FridaysPLEASANT HILLCITY OFFICIALS

Mayor:Mike Richardson [email protected] Manager:Donald Sandor [email protected] Clerk/Finance Officer:Susan Mahannah [email protected] Development Director:Ben Champ [email protected] Division-Inspections:Ruth Mattix [email protected] Official:Mike Pardekooper [email protected] Works Director:Gary Patterson [email protected] Chief:Tim Sitting [email protected] Chief:Reylon Meeks [email protected] Director:John Lerdal [email protected] & Rec Supervisor:Heath Ellis 309-0049 •[email protected]

Meet your Mayor andCity Council members

MIKE RICHARDSON309-9406

[email protected]

MELISSA GARRETT788-0018

[email protected]

DONAVON HOWARD299-4779

[email protected]

MARK A. KONRAD266-4584

[email protected]

BARB MALONE265-1424

[email protected]

LEONARD MURRAY265-3110

[email protected]

K-9 TRAINING CLASSSundays at 6 p.m.

Youth Center, 5050 Doanes Park Road, Pleasant Hill10-week course: $115.00 registration

Fun, enjoyable classes helping you teach your dog obedienceAdult and puppy classes available & private lessons offered, if desired.

Call Anna Childs at 515-314-0549 with any questions and to register.

PARENT &ME CLASSES2-4 YEARS $30 per month, 30 minutes per week

TAP, BALLET & TUMBLING5-6 YEARS $30 per month, per class

TAP, BALLET, JAZZ, TUMBLING,CHEER & CLOGGING7 YEARS AND OLDER

$30 per month, per class

ADULTCLASSES

$30 per month• Tap • Ballet• Clogging

DANCE LESSONSDANCE LESSONSCLASSES FORALLAGES!CLASSES FORALLAGES!

• Board of Adjustment - One openingMeets as needed; 1st Thursday of month at 5:30p.m.5 year term: 07-01-12 to 06-31-2017

• Library Board of Trustees – Two openingsMeetings held 4th Thursday of each month at 5:00p.m.4 year term: 07-01-12 to 6-31-2016

• Park & Recreation Commission – Two openingsMeetings held 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:00p.m.3 year term from 07-01-12 to 06-31-15

• Planning & Zoning Commission – Two openingsMeetings held 1st Monday of each month at 5:30p.m.5 year term from 07-01-12 to 6-31-17

Board &CommissionOpenings

Applications will be acceptedthrough May 15, 2012

For further information or application, please visitPleasant Hill City Hall, 5160 Maple Drive, Suite A,or the city website at www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us.

There are Upcoming Openings onBoards and Commissions in the

City of Pleasant Hill.

The City of Pleasant Hill willbegin decoration pick upMarch15 through April 1.

Citizens that want to keepdecorations must remove them fromOakwood Cemetery by March 14.

All decorations left after March 14will be thrown away.

Future decoration pick up dates are:June 15 through July 1

October 15 through November 1

Oakwood CemeteryDecorations

CommunicatorPLEASANT HILL

KEYCH City HallL LibraryYC Youth Center

March 2012 CITY CALENDARSUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

10 am & 10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time6:00 pm Park & RecreationCommission Meeting - CH

5:30 pm Planning & ZoningCommission Meeting – CH7 pm Lions Club - YC

DAYLIGHTSAVINGS TIME

BEGINS6:30 pm City CouncilMeeting- CH

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time4 pm Craft – L

10 am & 10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time6-8 pm Family MovieNight - L

6:30 pm City Council WorkSession - CH

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time4 pm Craft – L

10 am & 10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time5 pm Library BoardMeeting - L7 pm Lions Club - YC

St. Patrick’s Day

Spring Begins

6:30 pm City CouncilMeeting- CH

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time4 pm Craft – L6 pm Beg. Crocheting - L7 pm Book Discussion - L

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”yStory Time4 pm Craft – L

City OrdinancesChapter 135, Paragraph .12DUMPING OF SNOW AND ICE: It is unlawful for anyperson to throw, push, place, or cause to be thrown,pushed or placed, any ice or snow from privateproperty, sidewalks or driveways onto the traveledway of a street or alley so as to obstruct gutters, orimpede the passage of vehicles upon the street oralley, or to create a hazardous condition therein.

Chapter 136, Paragraph .03REMOVAL OF SNOW AND ICE: It is the responsibilityof the abutting property owners to remove thenatural accumulations of snow and ice promptlyfrom sidewalks, or if the ice cannot be removed, totreat the ice with sand, salt or other non-slipperysubstance. If a property owner does not remove thesnow or ice, or treat the ice within twenty-four (24)hours after cessation of snow/ice fall, the City may doso and assess the costs against the property ownerin the amount of $30.00 for a first violation and up to$75.00 for any subsequent violation.

SAFETY FIRSTIt is recommended that you not pile snow at the endof your driveway near the street. This can obstructyour view when backing into the street causing asafety hazard. It is also dangerous to let childrenplay in snow piles that are near the street. If theyslip or slide into the street, they could easily be hit bypassing vehicles.

If there is a fire hydrant in your front yard, pleasekeep the area around it clear of snow so that our firedepartment will have easy access in an emergency.

MAILBOXESThe US Postal Service will not deliver mail to yourmailbox unless it is clear of snow and ice. Pleasekeep the area around your mailbox clean and makesure the mailbox is in good repair and installed topostal service specifications.

If you have any questions, contact Public WorksDirector Gary Patterson at 265-9465.

Have a safe winter season.Gary Patterson - Public Works Director

WINTER WEATHER INFORMATION AND REMINDERS

I would like to take this opportunity to review oursnow route ordinance. All streets are designatedas snow routes. The streets themselves are notposted. All corridors into the city are posted“Snow Routes Enforced”. This means whenpredictions or occurrences indicate the need, thePolice Chief or Public Works Director will proclaima snow emergency and the police departmentwill inform the news media to publicize theproclamation and the parking rules under theemergency. A snow emergency parking banwill continue from its proclamation throughoutthe duration of the snow or ice storm and theforty-eight (48) hour period after cessation of suchstorm except as above provided upon streetswhich have been fully opened.Violations of the ordinance are subject to aparking ticket, if necessary impoundment ofthe vehicle which will also result in additionaladministrative fees as well as towing and storagecharges from the towing operator. A parking ticketis $15.00 and administrative fees are $25.00.Towing and storage fees will be assessed by thetow operator.If you have any questions concerning theordinance, I can be reached at the Pleasant HillPolice Department or by phone at 265-1444.I want to thank you in advance for yourcooperation.

Tim Sittig, Police Chief

PLEASANT HILLSNOW ORDINANCE

FREE TAX PREPERATIONBY AARP AT PLEASANT HILL PUBLIC LIBRARY

WEDNESDAYSfrom 10a.m. until 2p.m.February 1 through April 11, 2012

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is availableFREE to taxpayerswith low to moderate income, with special attention to those 60and older.

BRING THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS WITH YOU:• Last year's tax return• Social Security cards or other official documentation for yourself and all dependents• Checkbook, if you want to do a direct deposit of any refund(s)INCOME:• W-2 from each employer and any other forms necessary

CommunicatorPLEASANT HILL

One on one instruction is being offered. Theclass consists of three one-hour sessions. Aseries of classes is being scheduled for thenear future. Space will be limited, for more

information or to register, please call 266-7815.

These computer classes are forpatrons who want to learn:

*Basic Computer Terminology*Keyboard Shortcuts *Mouse Skills

*Navigating Windows *Word Processing*Using the Internet *Using Search Engines

*Setting up and using Email*Finding Interesting Websites

COMPUTER CLASSES FORBEGINNING LEARNERS!

LIBRARY News & Classes

FRIENDS OFTHE LIBRARY

THE LIBRARY NOW HAS SEVERAL COMPUTERSAVAILABLE as Virtual Access Points to the Iowa Work-force Development website. Quick links allow users toaccess job hunting information, as well as informationon unemployment benefits. There are also quick linksfor veterans and students to information of interest.An ‘Explore My Skills’ link has practice tests for theGED and ACT exams and computer learning tools. Stopin and take a look at how much these links help you toquickly find information at the IWD site!Thanks to grant funds provided by Prairie Meadows,the Library now has many new beginning reader booksavailable for checkout. If you know of a child learningto read, take a look at these limited vocabulary bookswhich are easy and interesting for children to read.The Library would like to thank Prairie Meadows forthe generous donation which made the purchase ofthese materials possible.Remember, our catalog is always available at the Li-brary website, www.ci.pleasant-hill.is.us/library !E-Books are now available! The Library is part of aconsortium of Iowa libraries providing access to over1,000 E-books to patrons. Access to Kindle readershas just been added!

Go to the Library website to access the WILBOR siteor call 266-7815. We will be happy to provide youwith the information needed to start reading online! E-books can be downloaded to many devices includingthe Nook and Kindle readers. Patrons can check out upto 3 e-books at a time. Project Guttenberg e-books arealso included at the WILBOR site. These don’t countagainst the 3 checkout limit and over 15,000 titles areavailable!Interested in downloadable audio which you can playon your IPOD, MP3 player or computer? WILBOR is foryou! Go to the Library website at www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us/library and click on ‘Online Databases’. Thenclick on ‘Online Audiobooks’ and see what WILBOR hasto offer. You will need your library card number. Call theLibrary at 266-7815 for more information.The Library has a new catalog online. You are now ableto renew your library materials from home as well asput items on hold. In order to set up an account, youwill need to know your patron number. Contact theLibrary to get your patron number or with any otherquestions about using the new system.There is FREE notary service at the Library. Call aheadto make sure one of the staff notaries is available.

The Library is now on Facebook! Just search on Pleas-ant Hill Public Library and help us build our fan base!The Library has all types of information available.Much of it can be accessed from your home computer!Go to the Library’s website www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us/library and click on ‘Online Databases’ on the left side.Database included are:World Book Encyclopedia – online encyclopediaWILBOR – downloadable audio booksAuto Repair Database (Ebsco)Ebsco Host - full-text journal and magazine articles(Ebsco)Facts on File – facts both pro and con on controversialsubjectsThese are available for anyone to use. Just contact theLibrary for the user name and password information.Also available on the Library’s computers are Refer-ence USA, which has information on businesses andpeople, and Heritage Quest, which has genealogicalinformation including census records dating back to1790.

CONTACT US FOR HOME DELIVERY OF MATERIALS.We will be glad to deliver books or other library itemsto patron’s homes.We can deliver requested materialsor select items based on the recipients’ preferences.Call us at 266-7815.THE COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD AT THE LI-BRARY IS AVAILABLE for all residents to post noticesof upcoming meetings, events and other items of in-terest. Goods or services for sale can also be posted.There is also space available for flyers for people totake with them.THE LIBRARY’S BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP NEEDSYOU! The group chooses all of the books which will bediscussed. It meets on the 4th Monday of each monthat 7p.m. If you are interested, the Library will supplythe book for you.DO YOU HAVE USED EYEGLASSES YOU WOULD LIKETO DONATE? The Library has a box from the LionsClub for eyeglasses. Your contribution improves some-one’s vision in another part of the world. The Libraryalso has a drop off box for used cell phones and abox for used ink cartridges. Bring these items in to berecycled.

PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING THEFRIENDS TODAY! Go to the library’swebsite at www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us/library for a membership form.Friends meetings are now being held on aquarterly basis. Their next meeting will

be Tuesday, March 6 at 6p.m. Call 266-7815 for more information. Computer equipment,Books on CD and DVDs are among the generous donations the Friends make to the Library.Come to a meeting soon and see how the Friends are making a difference! Hope to see you ata Friends meeting soon!RECYCLE YOUR PRINTER INK CARTRIDGES AND HELP THE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY! TTheFriends have a container at the Library, 5151 Maple Drive, for drop off of used printer ink car-tridges. For each cartridge returned, the Friends receive reimbursement. Please recycle and helpthe Friends raise money to help the library. Thank you for your help!The Friends are continually selling books at the Library. The items for sale are located to the rightof the front desk, near the study rooms in the southwest corner of the Library. Paperbacks are 25cents and hardcover books sell for 50 cents each. Proceeds go to benefit the Library. See whatgreat bargains are available!! Thank you for supporting the Friends of the Library!COUPON EXCHANGE The Friends of the Pleasant Hill Public Library sponsor a coupon exchange.Stop in at the Library and go through the coupons and take what you can use.If you have coupons that you would like to donate, please drop them by the Library. It is locatedat 5151 Maple Drive at the west end of the city complex.

The regular meeting of the Pleasant Hill Public Library Boardof Trustees was held on December 15, 2011 at 5p.m. in theCity Hall conference room. Present were Dan Herrin, WilliamLarson and Kelly Swinton. Also present and participating wasLibrary Director John Lerdal.The agenda was approved.The minutes from the October 27, 2011 meeting wereapproved.The consent agenda was approved.NEW BUSINESS:According to a proposal from Polk County, funding wouldbe reduced over a three year period for libraries providingaccess to rural residents. The president of the Polk CountyLibrary Association is negotiating with the county on thecontract for the upcoming three years.

The revised proposed budget has a 2.27% increase next year.Following discussion, the proposed budget was approved.Approximately 175 children and adults participated in theMake and Take an Ornament event during Hill of Lights. All ofthe Hill of Lights activities were well attended.The library opened in January of 1982. Possibilities for 30thanniversary events are being investigated.IWD access points have been installed on three computersin the library.Proposals for a revamped city website are being looked atcurrently.John Lerdal and Amy Gamble received certificates from thecity for their years of service at the December 13 Councilmeeting.The meeting was adjourned.

ADULT ACTIVITIESADULT CLASSES are offered at the Librarythrough Des Moines Adult Ed. Check out all theclasses which are available at their website:www.dmced.org or call 515-242-8521.CROCHETING, BEGINNING (Wednesdays,March 28-May 16, 6-8p.m.; $40.00 classfee) Learn single, double, half-double, treble,and more. Class for the real beginner. Moreexperienced crocheters will work withinstructor on individualized basis. Bring G, Hor I hook and a skein of pale yarn. Materialsare extra.SALT SCRUBS & FIZZING SALTS (Thursday,April 12, 6-8p.m.; $20.00 class fee) Go beyondjust mixing fragrance with Epsom salts!Discover the variety of salts you can use andthe beneficial results they provide. Learn aboutadditives & packaging options to add thatpersonal touch. We will create a fizzing salt &salt scrub that make great gifts or can be usedyourself for a spa-like experience! Great class

for anyone age 8 and above (children mustattend with a registered adult). All suppliesare provided. Supply fee: $12, payable toinstructor. Ages: Adult and 8+ with registeredadult.BASIC SOAP-MAKING (Tuesdays, April 24-May 8, 6-8p.m.; $25.00 class fee) Learn tomake soap using the cold process method.Make several bars of soap with vegetableoils, scented with essential oils and coloredin various ways. Learn how to prepare molds,labels and calculate ingredient quantities.Safety will be emphasized. Take home severalbars to enjoy with your family. Estimatedsupply cost is $6 per student, payable atfirst class.LIP BALMS FOR KIDS (Saturday, May 5,1-3p.m.; $20.00 class fee) For kids ages8 and older. Learn how to make your ownall-natural lip balms that don’t feel waxy orcaked-on when you apply them. You’ll getto make approx. 15 balms to use yourself orshare. Great class for anyone age 8 and above

(each child must be accompanied by an adultfor assistance). Supply fee: $12, payable toinstructor. Ages 8+ with accompanying adultfor assistance.B.E.S.T. Program: Bringing Education andSeniors Together. We plan a day trip once amonth to local sights. Times will vary accordingto destination. Call the Library at 266-7815 forquestions and to reserve your seat. Also findout what trip we have planned or add yourname to the mailing list.

TEEN ACTIVITIES:T.A.B. (TEEN ADVISORY BOARD) The nextTeen Advisory Board will be announced soon.The meetings will be from 6:30-8p.m. at theLibrary. This meeting is for ages 12-17. TheT.A.B. group will be meeting on a regular basisand will be gathering information and ideasabout what teens would like to see at theirlibrary. If you have any ideas about activitiesor changes in the teen area that you would like

to share, come to the next meeting and giveus your input. We want you to feel welcomedand proud of your library. For more informationplease call the Library at 515-266-7815.

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES:Movies and Popcorn: There is NO CHARGEfor this activity. Please note movies will beheld on the 3rd Thursday of each monthbeginning at 6p.m.Creative Kids Craft:Wednesdays at 4p.m., 6& up. Please pre-register for craft class, callthe Library at 266-7815.Li’bear’y Story Time:Wednesdays &Thursdays at 10a.m. & 10:30a.m. Stories andcrafts for pre-schoolers.

LIBRARY HOURS: Monday -Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

CITY OF PLEASANT HILLBUILDING PERMITS January 2012

TYPE ADDRESS OWNER VALUATION BLDG PERMIT FEESingle Family 5319 Pleasant Ridge Road BKM Renovators LC 140,808.00 813.75Single Family 5391 Pleasant Ridge Road BKM Renovators LC 125,230.00 741.50

Townhouses 0Single Family 2 $266,038.00

Residential Total 2 $266,038.00Commercial & Industrial 0 0

FictionCatch Me by Lisa GardnerIn Fire Forged by David WeberKill Shot by Vince FlynnOath of Office by Michael PalmerNonfictionFrommer’s 2012 San Diegoby Mark HissEnd of Illness by David B. AgusBooks on CDV is for Vengeance by Sue GraftonNaked Heat by Richard CastleJuvenile/ChildrenOne Cool Friend by Toni BuzzeoBad Kitty for President by Nick BruelJay: Ninja of Lightningby Greg FarshteyMaximum Ride: The Mangaby James Patterson & NaRae Lee

These are just a few of the newbooks the Library has to offer. Manymore new books, videotapes, bookson tape and other items are availableas well!

NEW BOOKS!

Please stop in and see us soon at5151 Maple Drive in Pleasant Hill

or phone 266-7815!

Remember that each Wednesdayis Amnesty Day at the Pleasant Hill

Public Library.

No fines for overdue materials arecharged on Wednesday!

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES

September 2010 • www.pleasanthillchamber.org • 515.261.0466

Pleasant Hill ChamberFebruary 2012 • www.pleasanthillchamber.org • 515.261.0466

CALENDAR OF EVENTSMARCH8th - Lunch Club – Striker’s

Bar & Grill20th - Board of Directors

Meeting

22nd - Lunch Club – Striker’sBar & Grill

Joining the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce is a step for the good of your business and our

community. The members are committed to support the efforts and services of our community

and businesses.

Life is too short to sit on the sidelines. Get involved! Here is your chance: Educational Seminars,

Networking Events, Socials, Business Expos, and Community Service….to name a few.

• Secure tips on growing your business – Join the Pleasant Hill Chamber

• Expand your knowledge – Join the Pleasant Hill Chamber

• Gather ideas from community leaders – Join the Pleasant Hill Chamber

• Grow your sphere of influence – Join the Pleasant Hill ChamberThe success of our Chamber is the result of dedication, determination, and desire to seek

every opportunity around the corner. Our chamber provides a platform for business owners and

employees to succeed from the networking opportunities, education forums, community service

and the expansion of relationships formed and nurtured.

The 2012 calendar is set with fantastic opportunities. Membership forms have been mailed

and new memberships have started coming into the Chamber office. With a wide variety of

membership and community support through the years we have thriving business professionals,

friends, and associates experiencing the opportunity to Grow Play Live…..come and be a part of

the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce!

The packets have been mailed……do you have yours?

Pleasant Hill Lunch club meetsfrom 11:30-12:30 every 2nd & 4thThursday. Please join us!!! Everyone

is Welcome!!

We would like to Congratulatethe following 2011 Award Winnerswhich were announced at the2012 Pleasant Hill Chamber

Annual Dinner held on January 30:

Citizen of the Year:Martha Miller

Volunteer of the Year:Kevin Harvey, Jr.

Outstanding Business of the Year:Over the Top.

We would also like to express a veryspecial thank you to:

Copper Creek Golf Club, Great Caterersof Iowa and Over the Top for an amazingdinner, and to all those who attendedand made this such a fantastic event.

2012 EXECUTIVE OFFICERS:

Cher Brown,President

Andrea Stanfel,Past President

Dr.Adam Langholdt,Vice President

Holly Bernal,Secretary

Tim Hummel, Treasurer

2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Christina AndersonJessica BergLainie Cooney

Christine D’AmicoMarta McCauley

Jill MeyerBrooke PulliamTim Tarbell

IW-900

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117

February 10th at NoonRibbon Cutting was held for:

Anytime Fitness4490 E. University Avenue

Grand opening was held through the 18th

Jeannine and Dave Ringgenberg along with their son Ben ownand operate this new fitness facility.

12 i MARCH 2012

The Pleasant HillChamber of Commercerecognized the city’scream of the crop in 2011with awards for topbusiness, citizen andvolunteer during theannual chamber dinner atCopper Creek Golf Clublast week.

More than 130 peopleattended the event –featuring food from theGreat Caterers of Iowa andchocolates from Over theTop – where 13 boardmembers were installed.

“Everything went very,very well,” ChamberDirector Cathy Jensensaid.

The awards seemed tobe the highlight of theevening for those whoattended.

Citizen of the Year

Pleasant Hill-nativeMartha Miller’s list of citycontributions andachievements extends wellbeyond the last year. Butthis year seemed as good asany to acknowledge hercommitment to thecommunity.

“She is 100 percentdedicated to Pleasant Hillin an extremely positiveway,” Jensen said.

In a way, receiving theaward is completing thefamily circle, said Miller

whose husband of 63 years,Gene Miller, and daughter,Kristine Young, bothreceived the award in the1990s.

Miller’s credentials forthe honor – which is theonly category that acceptsnominationsfrom thewhole city –includesyears of cityservice onboards andcommittees:25 years onCity Council,24 years withMetro Planning and Zoning(including four years aschair) and 50 years as Mrs.Claus with her husbandGene.

“I’ve worked a lot ofyears and I was nevernominated before, so it ispretty special,” Miller saidafter receiving the award.

She said she has along-term personal goal tohelp connect the chamberand city for the city’sprogress.

“I’m happy that the cityand chamber can worktogether on the growth ofthe community andimprove the quality oflife,” Miller said.

The life-resident iscurrently planning to

participate in her 25thMPO Washington, D.C.,trip to lobby for PleasantHill. She also said she isexcited to focus her energyon the expansion of thePleasant Hill PublicLibrary.

“My next thing is thelibrary. It’s reallyoutgrowing its boundariesand there is a need toexpand,” said Miller,noting she helped the citypurchase the land next tothe current library. “That’ssomething the city’s goingto have to work on.”

OutstandingBusiness of the Year

The chamber addedOutstanding Business ofthe Year as a new categoryfor 2011, awarding thesurprise recipient Over theTop with the honor at theevent.

Nearly two years ago,the ice cream andchocolate shop received awarm reception when itarrived in Pleasant Hill,which it returned to thecommunity by supportinga long list of groups andtheir various efforts.

“Over the Top is quietlyand confidently supportingour community in so many

ways whether it beorganizing fundraisers forchurches, schools and theBoy Scouts, serving icecream at the many eventsheld here in Pleasant Hilland surrounding areas oreven donating items tospecial events,” thechamber stated.

Apparently thestorefronts name extendsbeyond the customerservice and tasty servingsof ice cream.

“They go above andbeyond,” Jensen said.“Anything that is asked ofthem they alwaysparticipate.”

Before celebrating itssecond birthday in April,Over the Top has alreadypartnered with the localfire and policedepartments, elementaryschools, a number ofchurch youth groups andother organizations tosupport fundraisingefforts and initiatives inthe city.

“We look forward tocontinuing those efforts inthe future,” said co-ownerChristine D’Amico, notingthe shop will open onMarch 1 for the nextseason. “This type ofrecognition validates ourgoals and sets the bar evenhigher.”

Volunteer ofthe Year

Jensen first met DesMoines-area native KevinHarvey Jr. as aface-painted, wild-hairedrocker impersonating Kissdrummer Peter Kriss. Thatwas when Harvey’s Kisscover band, The PsychoCircus, played at PleasantHill’s Chill on the Hill in2009 and 2010.

Since then, the PleasantHill resident andindividual chambermember has left a bigimpression and made asignificant difference inchamber operations,

earning him the Volunteerof the Year Award.

“He was our workhorse.He showed up at everyevent we had for setup andtear down and took offwork and personal time tohelp with events we have,”Jensen said.

The chamber directorsaid this was the hardestcategory to narrow downbecause Pleasant Hill hasthe best volunteer base shehas ever seen. But she washappy to honor Harveywho has inspired manyother volunteers with thechamber.

“I was definitelysurprised and it was kind ofheartfelt really,” Harveysaid. “I knew I wasnominated, but I thoughtthe other people who werenominated outweighed me.All I did was just go downthere and supply somemanpower and time.”

After performing atChill on the Hill andmeeting many chambermembers, Harvey decidedto become a member andget more involved.

One of his firstcontributions was during aChill on the Hill fundraiserfollowing the death ofAltoona-resident ChadWells, when Harveydressed up in his Kisscostume and paintedchildren’s faces for $5. Allproceeds went to the ChadWells fund.

Harvey, who works atJohn’s Tree Service,previously served the stateas a corporal with the IowaArmy National Guard forseven years, in addition toserving as a localfirefighter.

He said the chamber hasbeen an exceptionally fun,social outlet for him andmany others.

“What really made medo it is seeing how thepeople would pull togetherand have fun. I just thoughtit would be somethingspecial to be a part of,”Harvey said.

P. Hill Chamber announces annual awards

Miller

Over the Top receives newaward for outstanding businessBy TIMOTHY [email protected]

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14 i MARCH 2012

Southeast Polk had aschool-record 11 wrestlersqualify for last month’sstate wrestling tournamentand Des Moines East hadone advance to state.

Results were notavailable by press time, butvisitwww.altoonaherald.comfor a full report from thestate duals and traditional

tournaments, includingphoto galleries.

Local qualifiersSoutheast Polk: Aaron Meyer (106,32-11), Cory Clark (126, 42-1), DylanBuchheit (132, 35-9), Briar Dittmer (138,26-15), Dylan Blackford (152, 41-3), TimMiklus (160, 38-5), Alex Meyer (170, 42-1),Casey Marnin (182, 35-9), Bud Smith (195,34-4), Willie Miklus (220, 43-0) and BryceFisher (285, 38-6).Des Moines East: Josh Davis (160,26-10).

State wrestling

Visit us online for statewrestling coverage

Southeast Polk senior Alex Meyer, right, takes downIndianola junior Hayden DeBlieck in a 170-pound matchJan. 19 in Indianola. Meyer was one of three top-rankedRams to qualify for the state tournament, and 11 overall.MICHAEL ROLANDS/HERALD-INDEX

A wife asks her husband,“Could you please goshopping for me and buyone carton of milk, and ifthey have eggs, get six?”

The husband returnswith six cartons of milk.

“Why did you buy sixcartons of milk?” asks thewife.

“They had eggs,” hereplied.

Women immediatelywonder what’s wrong withthis guy and men see thesituation and would doexactly as the husband did.What we have here is afailure to communicate.

After I shared this storywith friends I wasreminded that women arefrom Venus and men willforever be from Mars. Iunderstand why God madeus physically different, butI’m confounded as to whyGod wired our brains sodifferently.

Let me share a storyfrom the male’s point of

view. My wife demandedthat I take the car to get itfixed since the heaterwasn’tworking. I,ofcourse,asked “What does ‘notworking’ mean? She gaveme one of ‘those’ looks.” Iwon’t share further uglydetails of the conversationbut really, wouldn’t youthink he could read hermind after living with heralmost 45 years?

Hearing problems maybe involved. “I took a phonemessage for my wife. Icouldn’t believe someone’sname could really be MelbaToast, but I wrote it downand told Charline, who drewa complete blank. Severaldays laterCharlineanswersthe phone, I overhear her

apologizing for notreturning the call. Thewoman’s name was NeldaBoast.” Another friendcontributes, “Mom sentDad to the store for SureGel. He came home withDi-gel. I sent Frank to thestore for deli roast beef; hecame home with dried beef.I explained, “No, it comes ina larger package” and toldhim exactly where you findit in the meat section. Hecame home with a largerpackage of dried beef.Sometimes bigger is better,but not that time Frank.

A very frustrated friendwas in the middle ofChristmas baking. She gaveher husband an exact,explicit list of one item,even to the color of thelabel, telling him the can isshorter than a regular can.What she needed was twocans of Borden’s sweetenedcondensed milk. She gottwo cans of genericevaporated milk. The cat

drank well for a couple ofdays but his favorite fudgecould not be made; thehusband almost lost his lifewhen he asked why therewas no fudge.

It seems the only genderneutral stories deal withcomputers. “This isn’tright.” “What isn’t right?”“This thing isn’t working.”“What thing?” “Thecomputer.” “What on thecomputer isnotworkingtheway you think it should?”“E-mail.” “What’s wrongwith your e-mail?” “It isn’tworking.” “OK, let me comelook.... Show me what’s notworking.” “See, it’s notworking.” “Did you readthat little window that justpopped up to remind youthat your caps lock is onwhen you try to enter yourpassword?” “Oh. Nevermind.” Great! What kind ofa mess have we now withboth genders trying tocommunicate withmachines?

Sexes wired to be much differentOn theEdgeSue Denny

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MARCH 2012 i 15

While the electionseason heats up, you willhear more and morepromises, claims andcounter claims from thecandidates. As a citizen,you may or may not enjoythis political theater, but asan investor, you might beconcerned over all the talkabout taxes, SocialSecurity, Medicare andother financial topics. Willyou need to adjust yoursavings and investmentstrategies? If so, how?

Before you think aboutadjusting your investmentstrategy in anticipation ofany actions coming fromWashington, keep a coupleof facts in mind. First, fewcampaign promisesbecome reality. Andsecond, due to our systemof government, radicalshifts in direction are

difficult to implement -which is why so few ofthem occur.

Still, we may see somesmaller scale - yet notinsignificant - changes inthe near future. In light ofthis possibility, whatinvestment decisionsshould you make? Here area few suggestions:

Consider owninginvestments that are taxedin different ways. No onecan predict what willhappen with income taxrates or the tax rates thatare applied to capital gainsand dividends.Consequently, it may be agood idea to seek taxdiversification by owninginvestments that are taxedin different ways. Forexample, when you sellappreciated stocks, youpay capital gains taxes,whereas interest paymentsfrom bonds will be taxed atyour individual tax rate.And it’s always a good ideato take advantage oftax-advantaged vehicles,

such as an IRA and your401(k) or otheremployer-sponsoredretirement plan.

Stick with quality. It’s agood idea, when owningstocks, to invest in qualitycompanies with diversifiedbusinesses. Thesecompanies are usually lessdependent on a particulargovernment program, andthey typically have a globalreach, so they may bebetter able to handle anychanges implemented inWashington.

Stay focused on yourlong-term goals.Politicians come and go,and our political partiesseem to take turns holdingthe reins of power. Yet yourlong-term goals - such ascollege for your children, acomfortable retirementand the ability to leave alegacy to your family -don’t really change. Byrealizing that you arelargely responsible forachieving your goals, andby following an investment

strategy that’s suitable foryour individual risktolerance and time horizon,you can make gradual, butstill meaningful, progresstoward those goals - nomatter what’s happening inWashington.

Review your strategyregularly. With the possibleapproach of changes in taxpolicies and in governmentprograms that can affectyour retirement security,

you’ll want to review yourinvestment strategyregularly to make sure it’sstill on track towardhelping you meet yourobjectives. As part of thisreview, you may want toseek out more tax-smartinvestment opportunities,while always looking forways to supply the assetgrowth you’ll need to enjoythe retirement lifestyleyou’ve envisioned.

Aside from voting forthe candidates who bestrepresent your interests,you may not have muchinfluence over what goeson in Washington. But byelecting the right moves tohelp meet your goals, youcan have plenty of controlover your investmentstrategy.

Financial tips submitted by EdwardJones representative Karl Ritland.

Don’t play politics with your investment decisionsedward jonesfinancial focus

Project Fresh Start willagain distribute free promdresses to area students.Project Fresh Start is anAnkeny-based programthat originated in 2005. Thegoals of the organizationare to distribute schoolsupplies, backpacks andprom dresses to needystudents.

It has assisted dozens ofstudents from central Iowa

schools for the past threeyears by providing freeprom dresses to studentswho express a need. Alldresses have been donated.

Students do not need tocomplete a financial needform. Dresses will bedistributed March 5-10 at733 N. Ankeny Blvd.

Dresses can be donatedat the Ankeny CommunityEducation office, 306 S.W.School St. If you would liketo provide support to this

program, contact DaveKissinger [email protected] or491-2049.

Proms are scheduledfor March 31 at the CopperCreek Golf Courseclubhouse forBondurant-Farrar, April 21at the high school forSoutheast Polk and April 28at Scottish Rite MasonicCenter for Des MoinesEast.

Fresh Start offers free prom dressesDES MOINES REGISTER

You have only so many years to prepare forretirement. That’s why contributing to your IndividualRetirement Account (IRA) is so important. Fortunately,you still have time to maximize your 2011 IRAcontribution before the April 17 deadline.

By contributing now, your retirement savings canhave more opportunity to grow. Even if you alreadyhave an IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to transfer it to anEdward Jones IRA and begin receiving the face-to-faceguidance you deserve.

Retirement May Be Far Off,But the April 17 Deadline forIRA Contributions Isn’t.

To learn more about the advantages of anEdward Jones IRA, call or visit today.

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SOLD

JUST

SOLD

2643 Hull Ave$120,000

3 Bed/1 ½ Bath1739 fin sq ftContemporary

JUST

SOLD

2600 30th St$110,000

3 Bed/1 ½ Bat1562 fin sq ft

One & Half Story

WAUKEEWAUKEE CLIVECLIVE

508 12th St SE, Altoona3 bedroom, 2 Full Bath, 1860 fin sq ft, Built 1972, Lot Size .21, Ranch 2 Car Detached Garage, $139,900Best home for the money in Altoona! Must see this completely updated ranch in the heart of desirablequiet family friendly Altoona neighborhood within walking distance to elementary school, shoppingand bike path. Completely renovated kitchen includes new stainless steel appliances, tile flooring &backsplash 3 bedrooms centrally located by updated full bath. Bathroom updates include tile flooringand shower, new vanity and hardware. New interior doors, hardware, flooring and new trim throughouthome. New windows w/ colonial grinds, new vinyl siding on house & garage, & new light fixtures inside

& out. Lower level has been finished with HUGE family room, oversized full updated bath, laundryroom, non-conforming bedroom or office & storage closet adding over 900 additional finished sq ft tothis home. Other updates include newer high efficiency furnace, water heater, drywalled 2 car garage,

new front deck, & fenced in yard. This home is priced for quick sale and won’t last long!

“Easy to work with...hard to beat!”

Bill: 770-2455Bob: 979-2883

EisenlauerTeam.comRE/MAX Real Estate Group

932 N Shadyview Blvd.Pleasant Hill, IA 50327

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

Hickory Blvd N$40,000Lot/Land

IW-9000324110