March Edge by Altoona Herald-Mitchellville index

the

PLEASANT HILL

ALTOONA HERALD-INDEX

edge

MARCH 2012 Volume 11, Issue 3

News from your community

And the awards go to... Page 12:

Pleasant Hill Chamber announces annual award winners, including volunteer of the year Kevin Harvey Jr.

2 i MARCH 2012

Your stories this month

Inside Financial tips from Edward Jones Don’t play politics with your investment decisions Page 15

State wrestling

community Calendar of local events ................................................................................3 Briefs....................................................................................................................6

news

Pleasant Hill Communicator Pages 7-10

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

Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Page 11

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

On the cover Kevin Harvey Jr. was named Volunteer of the Year by the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce. (Adam Wilson/Herald-Index)

Visit altoonaherald.com for a full update from the state wrestling tournament where SEP 170-pound senior Alex Meyer (left) and 10 other Rams competed.

The Edge Jennifer Abler DO

Reagan Barry PA-C

Sally Bennett PA-C

Illa Chandani M.D.

Casey Clor M.D.

Amy Lamberti PA-C

Joseph McGargill M.D.

John Rhodes M.D.

Priscilla Ruhe M.D.

Steven Strang DO

5900 E. University Ave. Pleasant Hill

643-2400

Clinic 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. IW-9000324115

EDITORIAL Editor Adam Wilson, 699-7028 Staff Writer Timothy Meinch, 699-7030

News from your community Stacy Davis PA-C

Edge Staff

A subsidiary of the Des Moines Register & Gannett Corp. PUBLISHED MONTHLY Phone: 699-7000 Fax: 699-7098 Email: adwilson@dmreg.com Email: tnixon@dmreg.com Send address changes to: Des Moines Register P.O. Box 957 Des Moines, IA 50306-0957

Copy Editors Andrea Houghton Susie Kling ADVERTISING Advertising Manager Trisha Nixon, 699-7027 Account Executive Diane Leggett, 699-7091 Circulation/Classified ads 699-7000

MARCH 2012 i 3

calendar Planning and zoning The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet at 5:30 p.m. Monday, March 5, at City Hall. Parks and Recreation The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 8, at City Hall. Chamber of Commerce The Chamber of Commerce meets first Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. in the conference room at the chamber office, 5160 Maple Dr. Call the chamber at 261-0466. SEP School Board The Southeast Polk Board of Education business meeting is the third Thursday of every month beginning at 5:30 p.m. For more information

visit www.southeastpolk.org. City Council The City Council meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at City Hall, 5160 Maple Dr. A council workshop is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20. Public Library Pleasant Hill Public Library hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 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 and Seniors Together a monthly day trip. Call the library at 266-7815 for more information. Library board: 5 p.m. Thursday, March 22.

Book discussion: The fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. For information, call the library at 266-7815. Li‘bear’y Story Time: 10 and 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Stories and crafts for preschoolers. Crafts: 4 p.m. every Wednesday. Beginning crochet: 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 28. Family Movie Night: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 15. Free tax help AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will offer free tax preparation to residents with low and moderate income from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays through April 11 at Pleasant Hill Public Library. Service is provided on a first come, first served basis with special attention to those 60 years and older.

reader of the month Cub Scouts Cub Scouts Pack 98 meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at the Pleasant Hill Elks Lodge. The troop accepts redeemable cans and bottles on the first Saturday of each month at the Pleasant Hill Hy-Vee. Call 264-0560 for information. TOPS Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets at 8:45 a.m. every Wednesday and 6 p.m. every Thursday at Berean Assembly of God Church, 5225 E. University in Pleasant Hill. Call Norma Holcomb at 262-2600 or Sherry Veldhuizen at 262-2235 for information. Enter your Edge calendar items online at www.altoonaherald.com under the ‘Submit Events’ link.

Did You Know?

Sophia Savage

Sophia Savage - Reader of the Month March 2012 Sophia Savage is the reader of the month at Pleasant Hill Public Library. Savage, 10, is a fourth-grader at Pleasant

Hill Elementary and the daughter of Jamie Savage. She enjoys computers and designing clothes and her favorite book is “Bridge to Terabithia.”

Creativity. Independent Living Assisted Living and Memory Care

Valley View Village Offers:

SKILLED CARE LONG TERM CARE SPEECH, PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE

1500 Edgewater Drive Pleasant Hill, IA 50327

IW-9000324120

A Community of care for any need!

515.262.4444 visit us online at www.theshoreslife.com

2571 Guthrie Ave. • Des Moines

265-2571 • www.elimcare.org

IW-9000315725

We comply with the Fair Housing Act.

4 i MARCH 2012

Powerful message

Chrisy "Saber" Evers of The Power Team prepares to break cinder blocks Jan. 29 during a performance at Rising Sun Church of Christ.

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. 29 at Rising Sun Church of Christ in Pleasant Hill. Based in Dallas, Texas, The Power Team is a strength based ministry that was founded in 1975. Power Team members including Morrison, Matt “Timber” Dopson and Chrisy “Saber” Evers drew hundreds of fans to their shows last week at Rising Sun and reached more than 2,000 students during school visits around central Iowa. ADAM WILSON/HERALD-INDEX PHOTOS

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

BEST FAMILY RECREATION SITE & BEST FITNESS CENTER

Thank you to the community for all your support over the years. We look forward to seeing your smiling faces. -The Altoona Campus Family

with…

Guaranteed Results? 9.

10. TEN-thousand square-foot gym

NINE aquatics programs

FIVEthousand pounds of free weights

FOUR in-house personal trainers

8. EIGHT membership categories

3. THREE new racquetball courts

SEVEN days a week of Free ﬁtness classes

6. SIXlane heated pool

We can’t think of TWO full indoor gyms

ONE

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.)

IW-9000323615

1500 8th Street SW, Altoona • (515) 967-0788 www.altoonacampus.com • info@altoonacampus.com

RUNNELLS

PENNIE CARROLL & ASSOCIATES 157 - 25th Pl • $174,900 RUNNELLS

300 W Hancock • $149,000

301 W McKinney • $94,000

LAND

LAND .93 ACRES

LOTS

TRIPLE ESTATES

3299-3243 SE 166th • $119,500

7901 SE 6th Ave • $44,900

SE 6th Ave/SE 13th Ave • 75K-59K

8.28 ACRES

490-8025

www.PennieCarroll.com RE/MAX Opportunities

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

PLEASANT HILL

LOT

5250 Jordan Blvd • $339,000

380 NE 56th St • $205,000

LOT

COPPER CREEK

4870 Windsor Ct • $37,500

1975 Copper Wynd • $21,000

4560 Parkridge • $129,900

220 Linden Blvd • $149,000

PLEASANT HILL

LOT

LAND

COPPER CREEK 4880 Windsor Cir • $37,900

215 Dorr Ct • $169,900

5200 Copper Creek DR • $284,900

LAND

.474 ACRES

COPPER CREEK

4900 Copper Creek Dr • $249,900

787 SE 61st St • $28,000

1985 Copper Wynd Ct • $21,000

PLEASANT HILL

LOT

COPPER CREEK 1965 Copper Wynd Ct • $21,000

COPPER CREEK 5625 SE 14th Pl • $164,900

1995 Copper Wynd • $21,000

1107 Blackstone Lane • $99,000

5186 Windsor Court • $164,900

6334 Little Leaf Lane • $99,500

604 Stonegate • $287,500

2212-4th Ave SE • $229,000

127 35th St SW • $215,000

2620-11th St SW • $212,000

328-10th St SW • $209,000

ALTOONA

509 Stonegate • $349,000 ALTOONA

RHODES

LAND

.477 ACRES 1009-3rd St NW • $149,500

Kimberley Development Venbury 1814 3rd Ave SW $329,900 • 5 Beds • 3 Bath IW-9000324116

1016-5th St NW • $139,900

515-10th Ave NW • $134,900

833 Red Hawk Way SE • $118,500

3004-19th St • $189,900

Iron Crest Homes

Clarity Construction

2343 Hearthstone Cir SW $425,000 • 3 Beds • 3 Bath

2335 Hearthstone Ct. SW $560,000 • 5 Beds • 5 Bath

Iron Wood

603-17th Ave SW

6 i MARCH 2012

Briefs Lions Club offers two scholarships

Rent Specials! Limited Time Offer!

99 Deposit!

The Pleasant Hill Lions Club will award two $500 scholarships to area students this year. To obtain an application, contact the Pleasant Hill Public Library, 5151 Maple Drive, (515) 266-7815. Requests for applications are also available at the Des Moines East High School and Southeast Polk High School guidance offices. Applications are due March 31. Any student, regardless of the school they attend, and students being home-schooled are welcome to apply, including post-secondary students. Award of the scholarship is not limited to Pleasant Hill applicants, but preference will be given to residents. The Lions Club meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month at Doanes Park Youth Center in Pleasant Hill.

Donate cans and bottles to help kids The Des Moines school district’s Community Education Department is holding a can and bottle drive for a scholarship fund that will help pay for elementary and middle school students to participate in youth

programs. The fundraiser is ongoing. If you have cans and bottles with the Iowa 5-cent refund and wish to donate them, call (515) 242-8525 to arrange drop-off or pickup.

Little League extends registration With a surprisingly low number of youth signed up for Pleasant Hill Little League, league directors are extending the registration deadline to March 15. As of Feb. 14, 92 kids had signed up to participate in the summer season, compared to about 180 youth who participated in last year’s season. League administrators say neighboring communities have also seen a decline in numbers. “We were at first very alarmed,” former PHLL Vice President Dave Peterson said. “Then we learned other leagues in the area are reporting that their numbers are also down.” Peterson, who has been involved with PHLL since 1977, and others say the cause of the decline is at least two fold: growing popularity of tournament leagues – such as the Rams Baseball Club and the United States Specialty Sports Association – and the tough economy.

Peterson said the league has worked with a number of parents who requested they make their payment, between $70 and $90, in March and April after receiving tax returns. League directors say they hope many more kids will show up and register before the deadline. “Normally in the past we’ve had the majority of our kids by now,” Peterson said.

SEP student paper earns Gallup Award Rampage, Southeast Polk’s student newspaper, has earned Gallup Award status in the annual news evaluation service conducted by Quill and Scroll, an international honor society for high school journalists. Only one other high school in the state, Davenport West, and 24 schools nationwide were awarded this status, the highest distinction attainable in the competition. Newspapers receiving the George H. Gallup Award represent the nation’s best publications and must achieve a minimum of 925 of 1,000 possible points in judging along with earning “superior” achievement status in each of the competition’s five categories.

Pleasant Hill Family Dentistry Gregory J. Konchar, D.D.S.

Member of: • Delta Dental • Principal • Select • Wellmark

265-6484

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

IW-9000320911

IW-9000324118

Communicator PLEASANT HILL

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

Pleasant Hill

SPRING CLEAN-UP IS 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, and major auto parts will NOT be accepted.

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

HAZARDOUS WASTE MATERIALS If 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 Center 225 Prairie Drive SW, Bondurant, Iowa. 515-967-5512

SCRAP TIRE PROGRAM Sponsored by METRO WASTE AUTHORITY

SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 2012 8:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.

Drop Off Site: West Parking Lot of Library 5151 Maple Drive Open to Pleasant Hill residents only Limit: 5 passenger tires or truck tires (on/off rim) Only residential passenger car & truck tires can be accepted & recycled by METRO WASTE AUTHORITY Large oversized tires such as semi, farm & tractor tires can be delivered to Metro Park East Landﬁll. Fees range from $5 to $110 per ton. More information can be obtained by calling 333-4450. NO TIRES WILL BE ACCEPTED FROM BUSINESSES NO 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 disposed of with the regular trash, as these tires are not banned from landﬁlls & cannot be recycled. Call 967-2076 for more information.

Appliance & Scrap Metal Drop Off SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 2012 8a.m. until Noon

Pleasant Hill City Hall Parking Lot 5160 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’S GENERAL SCRAP METAL VIDEO GAMES STOVES DVD PLAYERS VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS WASHERS & DRYERS CELL PHONES DISHWASHERS PRINTERS & COPIERS AIR CONDITIONERS FURNACES REFRIGERATORS VIDEO GAME SYSTEMS VCR’S

TELEVISIONS & MONITORS All appliance and electronics can be disposed of for FREE, except for televisions & monitors: 18 inches & under $ 7.00 33 to 40 inches $22.00

19 to 25 inches $12.00 41 inches & up $27.00

26 to 32 inches $17.00 Console TV’s $27.00

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

PLEASANT HILL Meet your Mayor and City Council members MIKE RICHARDSON 309-9406 mrichardson@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us MELISSA GARRETT 788-0018 mgarrett@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us DONAVON HOWARD 299-4779 dhoward@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us MARK A. KONRAD 266-4584 mkonrad@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us BARB MALONE 265-1424 bmalone@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us LEONARD MURRAY 265-3110 lmurray@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us

PLEASANT HILL CITY OFFICIALS

Mayor: Mike Richardson 309-9406 mrichardson@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us City Manager: Donald Sandor 309-9408 dsandor@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us City Clerk/Finance Officer: Susan Mahannah 309-9410 smahannah@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Community Development Director: Ben Champ 309-9460 bchamp@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Building Division-Inspections: Ruth Mattix 309-9461 rmattix@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Building Official: Mike Pardekooper 309-9457 mpardekooper@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Public Works Director: Gary Patterson 262-9465 gpatterson@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Police Chief: Tim Sitting 309-9420 tsitting@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Fire Chief: Reylon Meeks 262-9360 rmeeks@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Library Director: John Lerdal 266-7815 jlerdal@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us Park & Rec Supervisor: Heath Ellis 309-0049 • hellis@ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us

Communicator

DANCECLASSES LESSONS FOR ALL AGES!

Oakwood Cemetery Decorations

PARENT & ME CLASSES 2-4 YEARS $30 per month, 30 minutes per week TAP, BALLET & TUMBLING 5-6 YEARS $30 per month, per class

ADULT CLASSES $30 per month • Tap • Ballet • Clogging

TAP, BALLET, JAZZ, TUMBLING, CHEER & CLOGGING 7 YEARS AND OLDER $30 per month, per class

Fully Insured • PDP Certiﬁed • BMI Licensed • Member of Clogging Association YOUTH CENTER AT DOANES PARK 5050 Doanes Park Road, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 Call TERA for more information: 515-491-2548 Email: Tertanker@aol.com

Classes are on Fridays

K-9 TRAINING CLASS Sundays at 6 p.m.

Youth Center, 5050 Doanes Park Road, Pleasant Hill 10-week course: $115.00 registration Fun, enjoyable classes helping you teach your dog obedience Adult and puppy classes available & private lessons offered, if desired.

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

Board & Commission Openings There are Upcoming Openings on Boards and Commissions in the City of Pleasant Hill. Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2012 For further information or application, please visit Pleasant Hill City Hall, 5160 Maple Drive, Suite A, or the city website at www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us.

The City of Pleasant Hill will begin decoration pick up March15 through April 1. Citizens that want to keep decorations must remove them from Oakwood Cemetery by March 14. All decorations left after March 14 will be thrown away. Future decoration pick up dates are: June 15 through July 1 October 15 through November 1

• Board of Adjustment - One opening

Meets 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 openings

Meetings held 4th Thursday of each month at 5:00p.m. 4 year term: 07-01-12 to 6-31-2016

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

PLEASANT HILL

March 2012 CITY CALENDAR

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

1 KEY CH L YC

City Hall Library Youth Center

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 4 pm Craft – L

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 6:00 pm Park & Recreation Commission Meeting - CH

6:30 pm City Council Meeting- CH

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 4 pm Craft – L

10 am & 10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 6-8 pm Family Movie Night - L

5:30 pm Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting – CH 7 pm Lions Club - YC

12 DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS

SATURDAY

10 am & 10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time

FRIDAY

Spring Begins

7 pm Lions Club - YC

6:30 pm City Council Work Session - CH

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 4 pm Craft – L

10 am & 10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 5 pm Library Board Meeting - L

7 pm Book Discussion - L

6:30 pm City Council Meeting- CH

10 am &10:30 am Li”Bear”y Story Time 4 pm Craft – L 6 pm Beg. Crocheting - L

WINTER WEATHER INFORMATION AND REMINDERS

City Ordinances Chapter 135, Paragraph .12 DUMPING OF SNOW AND ICE: It is unlawful for any person to throw, push, place, or cause to be thrown, pushed or placed, any ice or snow from private property, sidewalks or driveways onto the traveled way of a street or alley so as to obstruct gutters, or impede the passage of vehicles upon the street or alley, or to create a hazardous condition therein. Chapter 136, Paragraph .03 REMOVAL OF SNOW AND ICE: It is the responsibility of the abutting property owners to remove the natural accumulations of snow and ice promptly from sidewalks, or if the ice cannot be removed, to treat the ice with sand, salt or other non-slippery substance. If a property owner does not remove the snow or ice, or treat the ice within twenty-four (24) hours after cessation of snow/ice fall, the City may do so and assess the costs against the property owner in the amount of $30.00 for a ﬁrst violation and up to $75.00 for any subsequent violation.

SAFETY FIRST It is recommended that you not pile snow at the end of your driveway near the street. This can obstruct your view when backing into the street causing a safety hazard. It is also dangerous to let children play in snow piles that are near the street. If they slip or slide into the street, they could easily be hit by passing vehicles. If there is a fire hydrant in your front yard, please keep the area around it clear of snow so that our fire department will have easy access in an emergency. MAILBOXES The US Postal Service will not deliver mail to your mailbox unless it is clear of snow and ice. Please keep the area around your mailbox clean and make sure the mailbox is in good repair and installed to postal service specifications. If you have any questions, contact Public Works Director Gary Patterson at 265-9465.

Have a safe winter season.

Gary Patterson - Public Works Director

St. Patrick’s Day

Communicator

PLEASANT HILL SNOW ORDINANCE

I would like to take this opportunity to review our snow route ordinance. All streets are designated as snow routes. The streets themselves are not posted. All corridors into the city are posted “Snow Routes Enforced”. This means when predictions or occurrences indicate the need, the Police Chief or Public Works Director will proclaim a snow emergency and the police department will inform the news media to publicize the proclamation and the parking rules under the emergency. A snow emergency parking ban will continue from its proclamation throughout the duration of the snow or ice storm and the forty-eight (48) hour period after cessation of such storm except as above provided upon streets which have been fully opened. Violations of the ordinance are subject to a parking ticket, if necessary impoundment of the vehicle which will also result in additional administrative fees as well as towing and storage charges from the towing operator. A parking ticket is $15.00 and administrative fees are $25.00. Towing and storage fees will be assessed by the tow operator. If you have any questions concerning the ordinance, I can be reached at the Pleasant Hill Police Department or by phone at 265-1444. I want to thank you in advance for your cooperation. Tim Sittig, Police Chief

FREE TAX PREPERATION BY AARP AT PLEASANT HILL PUBLIC LIBRARY

WEDNESDAYS

from 10a.m. until 2p.m.

February 1 through April 11, 2012

FREE

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is available to taxpayers with low to moderate income, with special attention to those 60 and 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

PLEASANT HILL

Communicator

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.

LIBRARY News & Classes

THE LIBRARY NOW HAS SEVERAL COMPUTERS AVAILABLE as Virtual Access Points to the Iowa Workforce Development website. Quick links allow users to access job hunting information, as well as information on unemployment beneﬁts. There are also quick links for veterans and students to information of interest. An ‘Explore My Skills’ link has practice tests for the GED and ACT exams and computer learning tools. Stop in and take a look at how much these links help you to quickly ﬁnd information at the IWD site! Thanks to grant funds provided by Prairie Meadows, the Library now has many new beginning reader books available for checkout. If you know of a child learning to read, take a look at these limited vocabulary books which are easy and interesting for children to read. The Library would like to thank Prairie Meadows for the generous donation which made the purchase of these materials possible. Remember, our catalog is always available at the Library website, www.ci.pleasant-hill.is.us/library ! E-Books are now available! The Library is part of a consortium of Iowa libraries providing access to over 1,000 E-books to patrons. Access to Kindle readers has just been added!

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

The Library is now on Facebook! Just search on Pleasant 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 encyclopedia WILBOR – downloadable audio books Auto Repair Database (Ebsco) Ebsco Host - full-text journal and magazine articles (Ebsco) Facts on File – facts both pro and con on controversial subjects These are available for anyone to use. Just contact the Library for the user name and password information. Also available on the Library’s computers are Reference USA, which has information on businesses and people, and Heritage Quest, which has genealogical information including census records dating back to 1790.

CONTACT US FOR HOME DELIVERY OF MATERIALS. We will be glad to deliver books or other library items to patron’s homes. We can deliver requested materials or select items based on the recipients’ preferences. Call us at 266-7815. THE COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD AT THE LIBRARY IS AVAILABLE for all residents to post notices of upcoming meetings, events and other items of interest. Goods or services for sale can also be posted. There is also space available for ﬂyers for people to take with them. THE LIBRARY’S BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP NEEDS YOU! The group chooses all of the books which will be discussed. It meets on the 4th Monday of each month at 7p.m. If you are interested, the Library will supply the book for you. DO YOU HAVE USED EYEGLASSES YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE? The Library has a box from the Lions Club for eyeglasses. Your contribution improves someone’s vision in another part of the world. The Library also has a drop off box for used cell phones and a box for used ink cartridges. Bring these items in to be recycled.

ADULT ACTIVITIES

for anyone age 8 and above (children must attend with a registered adult). All supplies are provided. Supply fee: $12, payable to instructor. Ages: Adult and 8+ with registered adult. BASIC SOAP-MAKING (Tuesdays, April 24May 8, 6-8p.m.; $25.00 class fee) Learn to make soap using the cold process method. Make several bars of soap with vegetable oils, scented with essential oils and colored in various ways. Learn how to prepare molds, labels and calculate ingredient quantities. Safety will be emphasized. Take home several bars to enjoy with your family. Estimated supply cost is $6 per student, payable at ﬁrst class. LIP BALMS FOR KIDS (Saturday, May 5, 1-3p.m.; $20.00 class fee) For kids ages 8 and older. Learn how to make your own all-natural lip balms that don’t feel waxy or caked-on when you apply them. You’ll get to make approx. 15 balms to use yourself or share. Great class for anyone age 8 and above

(each child must be accompanied by an adult for assistance). Supply fee: $12, payable to instructor. Ages 8+ with accompanying adult for assistance. B.E.S.T. Program: Bringing Education and Seniors Together. We plan a day trip once a month to local sights. Times will vary according to destination. Call the Library at 266-7815 for questions and to reserve your seat. Also ﬁnd out what trip we have planned or add your name to the mailing list.

to share, come to the next meeting and give us your input. We want you to feel welcomed and proud of your library. For more information please call the Library at 515-266-7815.

ADULT CLASSES are offered at the Library through Des Moines Adult Ed. Check out all the classes 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 class fee) Learn single, double, half-double, treble, and more. Class for the real beginner. More experienced crocheters will work with instructor on individualized basis. Bring G, H or I hook and a skein of pale yarn. Materials are extra. SALT SCRUBS & FIZZING SALTS (Thursday, April 12, 6-8p.m.; $20.00 class fee) Go beyond just mixing fragrance with Epsom salts! Discover the variety of salts you can use and the beneﬁcial results they provide. Learn about additives & packaging options to add that personal touch. We will create a ﬁzzing salt & salt scrub that make great gifts or can be used yourself for a spa-like experience! Great class

COMPUTER CLASSES FOR BEGINNING LEARNERS! One on one instruction is being offered. The class consists of three one-hour sessions. A series of classes is being scheduled for the near future. Space will be limited, for more information or to register, please call 266-7815. These computer classes are for patrons 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

TEEN ACTIVITIES:

T.A.B. (TEEN ADVISORY BOARD) The next Teen Advisory Board will be announced soon. The meetings will be from 6:30-8p.m. at the Library. This meeting is for ages 12-17. The T.A.B. group will be meeting on a regular basis and will be gathering information and ideas about what teens would like to see at their library. If you have any ideas about activities or changes in the teen area that you would like

CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES:

Movies and Popcorn: There is NO CHARGE for this activity. Please note movies will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month beginning at 6p.m. Creative Kids Craft: Wednesdays at 4p.m., 6 & up. Please pre-register for craft class, call the Library at 266-7815. Li’bear’y Story Time: Wednesdays & Thursdays at 10a.m. & 10:30a.m. Stories and crafts for pre-schoolers.

PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING THE FRIENDS TODAY! Go to the library’s website at www.ci.pleasant-hill.ia.us/ library for a membership form. Friends meetings are now being held on a quarterly 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 at a Friends meeting soon! RECYCLE YOUR PRINTER INK CARTRIDGES AND HELP THE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY! TThe Friends have a container at the Library, 5151 Maple Drive, for drop off of used printer ink cartridges. For each cartridge returned, the Friends receive reimbursement. Please recycle and help the 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 right of the front desk, near the study rooms in the southwest corner of the Library. Paperbacks are 25 cents and hardcover books sell for 50 cents each. Proceeds go to beneﬁt the Library. See what great 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 located at 5151 Maple Drive at the west end of the city complex.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

NEW BOOKS! Fiction Catch Me by Lisa Gardner In Fire Forged by David Weber Kill Shot by Vince Flynn Oath of Office by Michael Palmer Nonfiction Frommer’s 2012 San Diego by Mark Hiss End of Illness by David B. Agus Books on CD V is for Vengeance by Sue Grafton Naked Heat by Richard Castle Juvenile/Children One Cool Friend by Toni Buzzeo Bad Kitty for President by Nick Bruel Jay: Ninja of Lightning by Greg Farshtey Maximum Ride: The Manga by James Patterson & NaRae Lee These are just a few of the new books the Library has to offer. Many more new books, videotapes, books on tape and other items are available as well! Remember that each Wednesday is Amnesty Day at the Pleasant Hill Public Library. No fines for overdue materials are charged on Wednesday!

Please stop in and see us soon at 5151 Maple Drive in Pleasant Hill or phone 266-7815!

LIBRARY BOARD MEETING MINUTES The regular meeting of the Pleasant Hill Public Library Board of Trustees was held on December 15, 2011 at 5p.m. in the City Hall conference room. Present were Dan Herrin, William Larson and Kelly Swinton. Also present and participating was Library Director John Lerdal. The agenda was approved. The minutes from the October 27, 2011 meeting were approved. The consent agenda was approved. NEW BUSINESS: According to a proposal from Polk County, funding would be reduced over a three year period for libraries providing access to rural residents. The president of the Polk County Library Association is negotiating with the county on the contract 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 the Make and Take an Ornament event during Hill of Lights. All of the Hill of Lights activities were well attended. The library opened in January of 1982. Possibilities for 30th anniversary events are being investigated. IWD access points have been installed on three computers in the library. Proposals for a revamped city website are being looked at currently. John Lerdal and Amy Gamble received certiﬁcates from the city for their years of service at the December 13 Council meeting. The meeting was adjourned.

CITY OF PLEASANT HILL BUILDING PERMITS January 2012 TYPE ADDRESS OWNER Single Family 5319 Pleasant Ridge Road BKM Renovators LC Single Family 5391 Pleasant Ridge Road BKM Renovators LC

VALUATION BLDG PERMIT FEE 140,808.00 813.75 125,230.00 741.50

Townhouses 0 Single Family 2 $266,038.00 Residential Total 2 $266,038.00 Commercial & Industrial 0 0

Pleasant Hill Chamber

February 2012 • www.pleasanthillchamber.org • 515.261.0466 September 2010 • www.pleasanthillchamber.org • 515.261.0466

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

February 10th at Noon Ribbon Cutting was held for: Anytime Fitness 4490 E. University Avenue Grand opening was held through the 18th

• 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 Chamber The 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!

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 Anderson Jessica Berg Lainie Cooney Christine D’Amico Marta McCauley Jill Meyer Brooke Pulliam Tim Tarbell

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH

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8th - Lunch Club – Striker’s Bar & Grill 20th - Board of Directors Meeting

Pleasant Hill Lunch club meets from 11:30-12:30 every 2nd & 4th Thursday. Please join us!!! Everyone is Welcome!! 22nd - Lunch Club – Striker’s

Bar & Grill

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

We would like to Congratulate the following 2011 Award Winners which were announced at the 2012 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 very special thank you to: Copper Creek Golf Club, Great Caterers of Iowa and Over the Top for an amazing dinner, and to all those who attended and made this such a fantastic event.

12 i MARCH 2012

P. Hill Chamber announces annual awards

Over the Top receives new award for outstanding business By TIMOTHY MEINCH tmeinch@dmreg.com

The Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce recognized the city’s cream of the crop in 2011 with awards for top business, citizen and volunteer during the annual chamber dinner at Copper Creek Golf Club last week. More than 130 people attended the event – featuring food from the Great Caterers of Iowa and chocolates from Over the Top – where 13 board members were installed. “Everything went very, very well,” Chamber Director Cathy Jensen said.

The awards seemed to be the highlight of the evening for those who attended.

Citizen of the Year Pleasant Hill-native Martha Miller’s list of city contributions and achievements extends well beyond the last year. But this year seemed as good as any to acknowledge her commitment to the community. “She is 100 percent dedicated to Pleasant Hill in an extremely positive way,” Jensen said. In a way, receiving the award is completing the family circle, said Miller

whose husband of 63 years, Gene Miller, and daughter, Kristine Young, both received the award in the 1990s. Miller’s credentials for the honor – which is the only category that accepts nominations from the whole city – includes years of city service on boards and committees: 25 years on City Council, Miller 24 years with Metro Planning and Zoning (including four years as chair) and 50 years as Mrs. Claus with her husband Gene. “I’ve worked a lot of years and I was never nominated before, so it is pretty special,” Miller said after receiving the award. She said she has a long-term personal goal to help connect the chamber and city for the city’s progress. “I’m happy that the city and chamber can work together on the growth of the community and improve the quality of life,” Miller said. The life-resident is currently planning to

participate in her 25th MPO Washington, D.C., trip to lobby for Pleasant Hill. She also said she is excited to focus her energy on the expansion of the Pleasant Hill Public Library. “My next thing is the library. It’s really outgrowing its boundaries and there is a need to expand,” said Miller, noting she helped the city purchase the land next to the current library. “That’s something the city’s going to have to work on.”

Outstanding Business of the Year The chamber added Outstanding Business of the Year as a new category for 2011, awarding the surprise recipient Over the Top with the honor at the event. Nearly two years ago, the ice cream and chocolate shop received a warm reception when it arrived in Pleasant Hill, which it returned to the community by supporting a long list of groups and their various efforts. “Over the Top is quietly and confidently supporting our community in so many

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ways whether it be organizing fundraisers for churches, schools and the Boy Scouts, serving ice cream at the many events held here in Pleasant Hill and surrounding areas or even donating items to special events,” the chamber stated. Apparently the storefronts name extends beyond the customer service and tasty servings of ice cream. “They go above and beyond,” Jensen said. “Anything that is asked of them they always participate.” Before celebrating its second birthday in April, Over the Top has already partnered with the local fire and police departments, elementary schools, a number of church youth groups and other organizations to support fundraising efforts and initiatives in the city. “We look forward to continuing those efforts in the future,” said co-owner Christine D’Amico, noting the shop will open on March 1 for the next season. “This type of recognition validates our goals and sets the bar even higher.”

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Jensen first met Des Moines-area native Kevin Harvey Jr. as a face-painted, wild-haired rocker impersonating Kiss drummer Peter Kriss. That was when Harvey’s Kiss cover band, The Psycho Circus, played at Pleasant Hill’s Chill on the Hill in 2009 and 2010. Since then, the Pleasant Hill resident and individual chamber member has left a big impression and made a significant difference in chamber operations,

earning him the Volunteer of the Year Award. “He was our workhorse. He showed up at every event we had for setup and tear down and took off work and personal time to help with events we have,” Jensen said. The chamber director said this was the hardest category to narrow down because Pleasant Hill has the best volunteer base she has ever seen. But she was happy to honor Harvey who has inspired many other volunteers with the chamber. “I was definitely surprised and it was kind of heartfelt really,” Harvey said. “I knew I was nominated, but I thought the other people who were nominated outweighed me. All I did was just go down there and supply some manpower and time.” After performing at Chill on the Hill and meeting many chamber members, Harvey decided to become a member and get more involved. One of his first contributions was during a Chill on the Hill fundraiser following the death of Altoona-resident Chad Wells, when Harvey dressed up in his Kiss costume and painted children’s faces for $5. All proceeds went to the Chad Wells fund. Harvey, who works at John’s Tree Service, previously served the state as a corporal with the Iowa Army National Guard for seven years, in addition to serving as a local firefighter. He said the chamber has been an exceptionally fun, social outlet for him and many others. “What really made me do it is seeing how the people would pull together and have fun. I just thought it would be something special to be a part of,” Harvey said.

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14 i MARCH 2012

Sexes wired to be much different A wife asks her husband, “Could you please go shopping for me and buy one carton of milk, and if they have eggs, get six?” The husband returns with six cartons of milk. “Why did you buy six cartons of milk?” asks the wife. “They had eggs,” he replied. Women immediately wonder what’s wrong with this guy and men see the situation and would do exactly as the husband did. What we have here is a failure to communicate. After I shared this story with friends I was reminded that women are from Venus and men will forever be from Mars. I understand why God made us physically different, but I’m confounded as to why God wired our brains so differently. Let me share a story from the male’s point of

On the Edge Sue Denny

view. My wife demanded that I take the car to get it fixed since the heater wasn’t working. I, of course, asked “What does ‘not working’ mean? She gave me one of ‘those’ looks.” I won’t share further ugly details of the conversation but really, wouldn’t you think he could read her mind after living with her almost 45 years? Hearing problems may be involved. “I took a phone message for my wife. I couldn’t believe someone’s name could really be Melba Toast, but I wrote it down and told Charline, who drew a complete blank. Several days later Charline answers the phone, I overhear her

apologizing for not returning the call. The woman’s name was Nelda Boast.” Another friend contributes, “Mom sent Dad to the store for Sure Gel. He came home with Di-gel. I sent Frank to the store for deli roast beef; he came home with dried beef. I explained, “No, it comes in a larger package” and told him exactly where you find it in the meat section. He came home with a larger package of dried beef. Sometimes bigger is better, but not that time Frank. A very frustrated friend was in the middle of Christmas baking. She gave her husband an exact, explicit list of one item, even to the color of the label, telling him the can is shorter than a regular can. What she needed was two cans of Borden’s sweetened condensed milk. She got two cans of generic evaporated milk. The cat

drank well for a couple of days but his favorite fudge could not be made; the husband almost lost his life when he asked why there was no fudge. It seems the only gender neutral stories deal with computers. “This isn’t right.” “What isn’t right?” “This thing isn’t working.” “What thing?” “The computer.” “What on the computer is not working the way you think it should?” “E-mail.” “What’s wrong with your e-mail?” “It isn’t working.” “OK, let me come look.... Show me what’s not working.” “See, it’s not working.” “Did you read that little window that just popped up to remind you that your caps lock is on when you try to enter your password?” “Oh. Never mind.” Great! What kind of a mess have we now with both genders trying to communicate with machines?

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State wrestling

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

Visit us online for state wrestling coverage Southeast Polk had a school-record 11 wrestlers qualify for last month’s state wrestling tournament and Des Moines East had one advance to state. Results were not available by press time, but visit www.altoonaherald.com for a full report from the state duals and traditional

tournaments, including photo galleries. Local qualifiers

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

MARCH 2012 i 15

Don’t play politics with your investment decisions edward jones financial focus While the election season heats up, you will hear more and more promises, claims and counter claims from the candidates. As a citizen, you may or may not enjoy this political theater, but as an investor, you might be concerned over all the talk about taxes, Social Security, Medicare and other financial topics. Will you need to adjust your savings and investment strategies? If so, how? Before you think about adjusting your investment strategy in anticipation of any actions coming from Washington, keep a couple of facts in mind. First, few campaign promises become reality. And second, due to our system of government, radical shifts in direction are

difficult to implement which is why so few of them occur. Still, we may see some smaller scale - yet not insignificant - changes in the near future. In light of this possibility, what investment decisions should you make? Here are a few suggestions: Consider owning investments that are taxed in different ways. No one can predict what will happen with income tax rates or the tax rates that are applied to capital gains and dividends. Consequently, it may be a good idea to seek tax diversification by owning investments that are taxed in different ways. For example, when you sell appreciated stocks, you pay capital gains taxes, whereas interest payments from bonds will be taxed at your individual tax rate. And it’s always a good idea to take advantage of tax-advantaged vehicles,

such as an IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. Stick with quality. It’s a good idea, when owning stocks, to invest in quality companies with diversified businesses. These companies are usually less dependent on a particular government program, and they typically have a global reach, so they may be better able to handle any changes implemented in Washington. Stay focused on your long-term goals. Politicians come and go, and our political parties seem to take turns holding the reins of power. Yet your long-term goals - such as college for your children, a comfortable retirement and the ability to leave a legacy to your family don’t really change. By realizing that you are largely responsible for achieving your goals, and by following an investment

Project Fresh Start will again distribute free prom dresses to area students. Project Fresh Start is an Ankeny-based program that originated in 2005. The goals of the organization are to distribute school supplies, backpacks and prom dresses to needy students. It has assisted dozens of students from central Iowa

schools for the past three years by providing free prom dresses to students who express a need. All dresses have been donated. Students do not need to complete a financial need form. Dresses will be distributed March 5-10 at 733 N. Ankeny Blvd. Dresses can be donated at the Ankeny Community Education office, 306 S.W. School St. If you would like to provide support to this

Aside from voting for the candidates who best represent your interests, you may not have much influence over what goes on in Washington. But by electing the right moves to help meet your goals, you can have plenty of control over your investment strategy. Financial tips submitted by Edward Jones representative Karl Ritland.

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

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you’ll want to review your investment strategy regularly to make sure it’s still on track toward helping you meet your objectives. As part of this review, you may want to seek out more tax-smart investment opportunities, while always looking for ways to supply the asset growth you’ll need to enjoy the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned.

strategy that’s suitable for your individual risk tolerance and time horizon, you can make gradual, but still meaningful, progress toward those goals - no matter what’s happening in Washington. Review your strategy regularly. With the possible approach of changes in tax policies and in government programs that can affect your retirement security,

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

program, contact Dave Kissinger at djkissinger@dmacc.edu or 491-2049. Proms are scheduled for March 31 at the Copper Creek Golf Course clubhouse for Bondurant-Farrar, April 21 at the high school for Southeast Polk and April 28 at Scottish Rite Masonic Center for Des Moines East.

By contributing now, your retirement savings can have more opportunity to grow. Even if you already have an IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to transfer it to an Edward Jones IRA and begin receiving the face-to-face guidance you deserve.

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

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3 bedroom, 2 Full Bath, 1860 fin sq ft, Built 1972, Lot Size .21, Ranch 2 Car Detached Garage, $139,900 Best home for the money in Altoona! Must see this completely updated ranch in the heart of desirable quiet family friendly Altoona neighborhood within walking distance to elementary school, shopping and 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 flooring and shower, new vanity and hardware. New interior doors, hardware, flooring and new trim throughout home. 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, laundry room, non-conforming bedroom or office & storage closet adding over 900 additional finished sq ft to this 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!

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4960 Andrews Place $225,000 3 Bed/2 Bath 1,585 ﬁn sq ft Ranch

5185 Waterfront Ct $341,000 4 Bed/3 Bath 3,071 ﬁn sq ft Ranch

2712 13th St SW $173,000 3 Bed/2 ½ Bath 1,494 ﬁn sq ft Two Story

4695 NE 29th St $60,000 2 Bed/1 Bath 860 ﬁn sq ft Ranch

3903 E 28th St $110,000 2 Bed/2 Bath 1,778 ﬁn sq ft Ranch

3020 Ovid $112,500 3 Bed/1 Bath 1144 ﬁn sq ft Ranch

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1720 Lay St $60,000 2 Bed/1 Bath 624 ﬁn sq ft Bungalow

Williams St $15,000 Lot/Land

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2336 61st St $105,000 2 Bed/1 Bath 1102 ﬁn sq ft Ranch

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