5/11/2020

5/26/2020

5/26/2020

5/26/2020

5/26/2020

5/26/2020

5/26/2020

5/7/2020

5/18/2020
    After careful consideration, the Urbandale 4th of July committee has decided to cancel all 4th of July events except for the fireworks show. There were many factors taken into account, including the health and safety of the community and the ability to put on a successful event with the current crowd restrictions due to COVID-19.
    Even a pandemic cannot stop the celebration of our nation’s Independence Day. The 4th of July committee will be selling special 2020 commemorative buttons and taking donations to fund the fireworks show. Look to the website and Facebook pages for more updates and how you can help: https://uniquelyurbandale.com/fourth-of-july/.

5/18/2020
    Vacation Bible School at St. Peter Lutheran is cancelled this summer. Due to the ongoing pandemic and the uncertainty that lies around being able to hold VBS this year, they have made the decision to cancel VBS.
    Online worship services will continue to be offered for members and friends of St. Peter Lutheran. The online service will be available by 7:45 a.m. on Sunday mornings. You can find a link on the facebook page of St. Peter at www.facebook.com/StPeterGrimes or on the church website www.stpeterofgrimes.org.
    Registation is open for the 3 and 4 year old Small Miracles Preschool. The 3-day program will be offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 8:15-11:30 a.m. A 2-day program will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at the same time. Register on St. Peter Lutheran’s website.

5/18/2020
    On Memorial Day, in traditional observance, the flag of the United States is raised briskly to the top of the staff at sunrise and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.
    The half-staff position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. At noon, their memory is raised by the living, who resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead and continue the fight for liberty and justice for all.

5/18/2020
    Upcoming events and summer activities held by the Iowa National Guard are canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The guard announced the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is canceling the annual Memorial Day breakfast along with the summer concert series held at Camp Dodge.
    The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is canceling its annual Memorial Day breakfast and recognition event, and the museum itself remains closed to visitors.
    The guard’s No Man’s Land Trench Run is also cancelled this year, along with the Iowa National Guard Alumni Day event held in August. Alumni Day is rescheduled for Aug. 7, 2021.

5/18/2020
    • Linda Diane Larsen, 70, of Grimes, passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2020. Cremation rites have been accorded. Due to gathering restrictions, a memorial service at New Hope Assembly of God Church in Urbandale will be held at a later date. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. Linda will be dearly missed.
    • Jean Ann Cowles Baker, 75, of Grimes, passed away on May 12. Memorial contributions may be made in Jean’s name to the American Cancer Society. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
    • Duane Edward Twining, 78, of Grimes, passed away Friday, May 8, 2020. A private burial service will be held Wednesday, with a Celebration of Life gathering later this summer as permitted. Duane loved parties and his family will make sure he has one more. Memorial contributions may be sent to the family in loving memory of Duane at P.O. Box 732, Grimes, IA, 50111.

5/11/2020
    During the month of April, 16 drivers provided 164 trips for clients in the Grimes area (126 of which were delivering meals from the Senior Meal Site to clients). We also had 9 yard mowings, and 7 DME loans.
     During the last month 22 volunteers drove 1,080 miles and spent 216 hours assisting others or organizing and administering the program. All of this was provided to clients without charge.
    During last month, drivers who are still employed, most of them full time, made up 57 percent of drivers for the month.
    Volunteers are needed to assist with yard mowing for some clients. The client will provide the mower and gas, all you have to do is show up and practice social distancing behind a lawn mower.
     For more information regarding GVSS, go to
www.grimesvss.com, call 515-986-5355, or email info@grimesvss.com.

5/11/2020
    This is an update on a three-year cooperative project with the City of Grimes Public Works Department and GVSS. During this time, GVSS has purchased four park benches and donated to the city. They thank Jeremy Thayer, Field Operations Manager, for assistance in the effort.
    They purchased the benches from Plastic Recycling of Iowa Falls, Inc. and had them delivered to the public works department for assembly and installation. Public works helped find four locations in Grimes that would give wide public presence. Those are:
    Bench 1: East First Street across from McDonalds
    Bench 2: West First Street across from MercyOne Clinic
    Bench 3: South James and 6th Street on the west side
    Bench 4: North James and Beaverbrook Boulevard east of the stop light

5/11/2020
    The Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Food Pantry Network is launching a food pantry delivery service to meet the needs of people experiencing food insecurity in Greater Des Moines at this time.
    If a person is unable to obtain food by either visiting a food pantry location or by using a proxy to pick up food for them, they may call to request a delivery. DMARC is asking that only those with health, transportation or other mitigating circumstances use this service. People can call 1-833-DMARC-20 (1-833-362-7220) toll free to request a delivery. This number will be staffed by trained volunteers and staff from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. Requests for delivery will be taken on a first-come first-serve basis, and delivery capacity will depend on the number of volunteers available.
    Once the order is placed, food will be delivered to the person’s doorstep with a no-contact drop-off the following business day between 9 a.m. and noon.
    Those interested in volunteering to deliver food can sign up at dmarcunited.org/volunteer.

5/11/2020
    The nine-week campaign, called 25 for 25, features 25 Iowa artists, small businesses and entrepreneurs. Each week, three of these vendors are featured and their products are promoted on social media and the website.
     Here’s how it works: Anyone interested in purchasing the promoted items pays $25. The Iowa Able Foundation splits the proceeds with the vendor, and the item purchased is mailed directly to the donor’s home.
    Visit iamableiowa.com/25for25 to view the latest vendor options.

5/4/2020
    New Horizon Academy has been providing high-quality care and education to young children for more than 45 years. While focusing on developing a healthy sense of self in each child, New Horizon Academy strives to provide your child with the necessary skills to succeed every day. Now Enrolling! Contact them at 8650 N.W. 62nd Ave., Johnston, (515) 348-4028, 3003@nhacademy.net.

5/4/2020
    At the April 8 DC-G School Board special meeting, Superintendent Grimes and business manager Michelle Wearmouth discussed re-publication of the 2020-21 budget due to a publishing erro by the newspaper of record. A new publication, a new public hearing and new budget approval will be required.
    At the March 30 board meeting, the following contract approvals were made:
    Michael Melchert, Volunteer Coach; Maddyson Reinhart, K Teacher - Heritage; Angela Doty, K-Teacher - Heritage; Julie Pamau, Spec Ed - Teacher - South Prairie; Mark Walker, Spec Ed - Teacher - Middle School; Chelsi Norland, PE Teacher - High School; Emily Drey, Spec. Ed Teacher - DCE; Aslynn Maudlin, 4th Grade Teacher - DCE; Cheyanne Lewis, 3rd Grade Teacher - DCE; and Trisha Gurnsey, 5th Grade Teacher - Heritage.
    At the March 30 board meeting, the following resignations were approved:
    Lauren Long, Teacher - DCE; Harka Biswa, ESLOL PLC Leader Position; Heather Willrich, SPED. Intervention - DCE; Joey Hepworth, Custodian; Angela Dvorak, Director of Student Services; Melissa Bolton, Teacher - Heritage; Jordan Weaver, Associate; Melissa Hepworth, Associate; Lynette Groenenboom, District Info Specialist; and Stacy Heidemann, 3-4 PLC Leader -DCE.
    A bid was approved for the DC-G 5-6 building remodel at the cost of $6,157,000.
    The cooperative sharing agreement was approved for the JCSD boys and girls swimming, tennis and bowling.
    The approval of the 2019-20 calendar was passed, waiving the 15 days missed due to Gov. Reynold’s waiver of instructional hours requirement.

5/4/2020
    At the April 14 Grimes City Council meeting, development services coordinator Alex Pfaltzgraff moved to approve the second reading of Ordinance 732 Rezoning Hope Commercial from A-1 to C-2. Motion passed.
    Mayor Mikkelsen said that there were a number of encouraging activities that he had seen in Grimes with residents, individuals and groups, going above and beyond in showing the strength of the community. Mikkelsen stated that among those to note, Grimes Volunteer Services, which helps serve hundreds of people every month for years by offering rides to doctor appointments or other errands for those that might not otherwise be able to get out. He noted that this is a completely volunteer driven program, that in these unpresented times, have still found ways to continue serving those in need by delivering meals, or providing pick up or drop off for food. Mikkelsen also noted the Food Bank has had approximately a 25 percent increase in demand for food. He said while they had to make adjustments to the process of how they provide these necessities, they are still able to keep operating. Mayor Mikkelsen said new volunteers have stepped in to help, and critically needed donations have increased as well to continue to take care of those in need. Mayor Mikkelsen wanted to make sure everyone was aware of these organizations, and encouraged those that are hungry or in need, to please reach out.
    Update on Outdoor Storage Ordinance: Pfaltzgraff reported that staff is looking at how to proceed with those businesses that require outdoor storage and drafting guidelines for effective screening to maintain a high quality environment.

5/4/2020
    The Des Moines Symphony announced that it will postpone its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert, as well as its second summer season of Water Works Pops.
     The Des Moines Symphony’s Yankee Doodle Pops, originally planned for Thursday, July 2 at the Iowa State Capitol, will be reimagined as a community-wide Labor Day celebration on Monday, Sept. 7 in the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park.
     The Symphony’s second season of Water Works Pops, originally scheduled July 24-26, will move to Labor Day weekend along with the rescheduled Yankee Doodle Pops Concert, creating a full weekend of free music for the community. These free, outdoor concerts, offered Sept. 5-7, will be presented thanks to the generous support of Linda and Tom Koehn.
     Further announcements will be made at dmsymphony.org.

5/4/2020
   Imagine the Possibilities Inc. is looking for motivated, supportive, and compassionate people to enhance the lives of our individuals with developmental disabilities. We have an immediate Full-Time and Part-Time positions available in hour Hourly HCBS program in our Adel location. The HCBS Direct Support Professional is responsible for implementation and documentation of goals and objectives for individuals served. The DSP will be an active advocate for individuals served with an emphasis on individual choice and decision-making. No experience necessary- we provide training for our team members. We offer a fantastic benefit package including 401k options, health, dental, vision and supplemental insurance options. Benefits also include a generous PTO package with pay out options. For more information or to apply online, please visit www.imagineia.org/employment.

4/27/2020
    Grimes Giving Garden still has available plots.
Contact CJ at cjfrascht@grimesiowa.gov for more information.

4/27/2020
    Drop off yard waste and scrap tires event will be Friday, May 8; Saturday, May 9; Friday, May 15; and Saturday, May 16 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1700 S.E. Destination Drive. Residents and Public Works staff are to follow CDC guidelines and distancing. Residents are to unload their own items. Tires must be off rims. No tractor tires or rims of any kind will be accepted. If you have questions, email tjohnson@grimesiowa.gov.

4/27/2020
    Grab and Go Meals can be picked up at South Prairie Elementary and Dallas Center Elementary weekdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for any child ages 1-18.

4/27/2020
    In the interest of health and safety in light of the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has shifted its 2020 Spring Garden Festival presented by Country Landscapes to an online plant sale with curbside pickup.
     The sale opens to the public at dmbotanicalgarden.com/shop on Wednesday, April 29. Plant pickup will take place at the Garden Friday, May 8 through Sunday, May 10.
     The sale features a curated collection of new, unusual or hard-to-find plants, with an emphasis on natives and perennials that support pollinators and other wildlife. Selections also include small-space plants for gardening indoors and in containers; herbs and vegetables; and ornamentals geared toward front yards.

4/27/2020
    The Des Moines Art Center recently launched seven virtual tours of their permanent collections and special exhibitions. The tours will allow visitors to click through the extensive collections as if they were at the museum — an especially important experience as the Art Center galleries are closed to the public in response to COVID-19. Go to www.desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/virtualtours to view the tours.

4/20/2020
    Waukee Head Start is currently taking applications for the 2020-2021 school year. Children need to be age 3 or 4 by Sept. 15, 2020. Classes are held Monday - Friday 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. A free breakfast, lunch and snack are provided. Head Start is of no cost for any services it provides. They offer a quality preschool experience by teachers with teaching degrees.
    Proof of income needs to be provided, as well as proof of age. Families that receive social security disability for any family member, TANF or children that are in foster care automatically qualify. Families not receiving these can also qualify. Family members are also encouraged to apply for any children who might have some special needs.
    For additional information, contact Christina Schalk, Head Start family advocate, at 712-830-1327 or cschalk@newopp.org.

4/20/2020
    Item due dates will be extended to May 15. The drop box is open, but do not leave things outside if it is full. Returned items may continue to show on your account for up to two weeks as they are quarantining returns before they are checked in by staff. Fines are not being assessed.
    Until further notice, the Grimes Library will do a take-out service during the week. Patrons can place items on hold online. They will then check out the items to their account and have them ready for pickup this week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3-6 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m until noon.
    Virtual storytime will be held Mondays and Fridays at 10 a.m.
    Virtual Move and Groove will be held Mondays at noon.
    See more updates and links on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/GrimesIALibrary.

4/20/2020

• Patsy Nath, 78, of Grimes, died April 12, 2020.
• Joseph A. Oertli, 86, of Grimes,  died April 16, 2020.

4/20/2020
    To reserve a garden plot at St. Peter Lutheran, contact Carol Clarke at cclarke2016@hotmail.com. The garden plots are free but they will accept a freewill donation to the church to help with water expense. There are full garden plots (15X20) or half garden plots (15X10). The plots will be tilled up soon. Sign up by June 1.

4/13/2020
    During the month of March, 32 drivers provided 260 trips for clients in the Grimes area (170 of which were either getting seniors to and from the Grimes Senior Meal Site or later in the month delivering meals from the meal site to our clients). They also had 4 minor repairs or light cleaning, 29 personal assistance, and 5 DME loans.
     During the last month, 37 volunteers drove 2,291 miles and spent 375 hours assisting others or organizing and administering the program so they could assist clients. All of this was provided without charge.
    During last month, drivers that are still employed, most of them full time, made up 57 percent of the drivers for the month.
    GVSS is currently not open to the general public, but if you have a need, contact Jay at jay.gvss@gmail.com or 515-321-8051
    Do you enjoy yard work and mowing grass? Have you ever thought of helping out your neighbors and friends? GVSS is always looking for happy and helping hands to join our mowing team.
    Clients provide a mower, gas and a trimmer. GVSS volunteers will contact our clients to schedule time to do their yard work. If you are interested in joining the GVSS Yard Patrol Team, call 515-986-5355

4/13/2020
    It is time to register for the 3- and 4-year-old preschool program that is offered at St. Peter Lutheran called Small Miracles Preschool. They will offer a three-day program on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 8:15-11:30 a.m. They will also offer a 2-day program on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at the same time. Go to www.stpeterofgrimes.org/small-miracles to register.

4/13/2020
    Every day, WesleyLife Meals on Wheels directly supports the health, vitality and independence of more than 900 adults living in greater Des Moines through delivery of a nutritious meal to their front doors, with close to 230,000 meals delivered each year. For more information, or to sign up for service, call 515-699-3243.

4/13/2020
        NEEDS HOME: Teddy needs a good home. 5 year old Lab/Boxer mix.  Brown and white markings. Beautiful dog. Great with kids. Call 515-238-3198. Located 5 miles from Grimes.

4/13/2020
    HELP WANTED: FedEx Ground in Grimes is hiring. If you’ve found yourself looking for a job due to COVID-19 shutdowns, FedEx Ground needs people to help us support the economy, handling life-saving medications and other items that keep Americans as prepared as possible during these uncertain times. https://careers.fedex.com/groundwarehousejobs/jobs?location=grimes,ia

4/10/2020
Rent a 5 ft x 10 ft storage unit today from Big or Small Storage.  Conveniently located between Grimes and Johnston north of 19th Street/62nd Avenue.  www.bigorsmallstorage.com




 

4/6/2020
    View a virtual learning camp, livestream of Iowa PBS Kids, coloring contest and more at www.iowapbs.org/families. Abby Brown will share a story online each Wednesday. Join Iowa PBS on www.facebook.com/iowapbs Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.




 

4/6/2020
     During this time of social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum is closed until May 31. They are posting history topics, events and observances on www.goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov and the Facebook Page: Iowa Gold Star Military Museum. The first article is “1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic” under “Our Stories” icon.
    April is Military Child Month, so visit the website to see things you can do to honor a military child.




 

4/6/2020
    Until further notice, the Grimes Library will do a take-out service every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Patrons can place items on hold online. We will then check out the items to their account and have them ready for pick up between 4-6 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. See updates on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/GrimesIALibrary.




 

4/6/2020
    For the first time in 40 years, the EMC DAM to DSM (formerly DAM to DAM) will not be held on Memorial Day weekend, due to COVID-19. The organizers of the event have decided to postpone the event to Labor Day weekend on Saturday, Sept. 5.

3/30/2020
    Come June 28 - July 2 as we venture into a frozen land in search of the King’s mighty armor! “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power.” Ephesians 6:10
     Children age 3 by Sept. 15 through those entering 5th grade this fall can attend VBS as a camper.
    They are still in need of several volunteers. Check the volunteer link for opportunities throughout the week.
    If you have questions regarding registration or volunteer opportunities, contact Monica Malmberg at sundayschool@stpeterofgrimes.org or visit www.stpeterofgrimes.org.





 

3/30/2020
    All Polk County Senior Centers are closed indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak. Currently, the Grimes Senior Center is one of several locations offering “meals to go” for those 60 years or older. Please call Rene Leppert at 515-986-5747 for menu information and to register for a meal.



 

3/30/2020
    • El Huapango: Order online, 515-986-0741
    • Luke’s Coffee Hub: Text in order,515-758-8700
    • Food Depot: Curb side pick up, carry out and local delivery, 515-986-4404
    • Godfather’s Pizza: Carry-out and delivery, 515-986-2228
    • McDonald’s: Drive-thru, 515-986-9182
    • Mustang Grill: Carry out 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., no breakfast. Credit card payments only, 515-986-5009
    • Breadeaux Pizza: Carry-out, 515-986-4242
    • Heavenly Delights: Carry-out, 515-986-5407
    • Hacienda Vieja, Take out, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., 515-986-3210
    • The Radish: Take-out, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday- Saturday, 515-986-1900
    • Rolling Wok Asian Cuisine & Pho, Carry-out and delivery through UberEats, GrubHub and MyTown2Go, 515-300-9521
    • Buger King: Drive-thru, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., 515-986-7322

 

3/30/2020
    If you and your family are out walking or driving in Grimes, the Parks and Recreation Department has a small challenge for you. See if you can find the seven hidden signs that have been placed in selected parks.
    If you spot the sign, take a family photo or a selfie with the sign and see how many you can locate. Once your venture is complete, tag the Parks and Recreation Department in your photos on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Grimes-Parks-and-Recreation-299260196802625/) or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/grimesrec/?hl=en) so staff can see how many you found. If you collect photos with all seven signs, your name will be entered into a drawing for the grand prize.
     The Parks and Recreation Department encourages you to follow all CDC recommendations and continue to practice social distancing.️

 

3/30/2020
    • NorthPoint Church: Live stream services, Sunday,
9 a.m. and 10:35 a.m. on their Facebook page, 515-986-0306
    • St. Peter Lutheran Church of Grimes: Live stream services on their Facebook page, 515-986-3077
    • Grimes United Methodist Church: Live stream services Sundays at 8:30 a.m. on Facebook page or Vimeo account, 515-986-4036
    • Summitcreek Church: Live interactions on their Facebook page, 515-207-9551
    • Harvest Bible Chapel Des Moines: Services posted on their YouTube channel and Facebook page, 515-428-0029
    • First Presbyterian Church of Grimes: Video messages posted on their Facebook page, 515-986-3720
    • Crossroads Community Church: Videos posted on their Facebook page, 515-986-5433

3/30/2020
    The Des Moines Art Center recently launched seven virtual tours of their permanent collections and special exhibitions. The tours will allow visitors to click through the extensive collections as if they were at the museum — an especially important experience as the Art Center galleries are closed to the public until April 7 in response to COVID-19. Go to www.desmoinesartcenter.org/visit/virtualtours to view the tours.

3/30/2020
    Want to help local businesses? Visit https://centraliowa.shopwhereilive.com. The Johnston Chamber has partnered with the Urbandale, Grimes, Indianola and West Des Moines Chambers of Commerce and launched an online platform to bring small businesses together to sell their products and services virtually.
    Members have begun posting their items for sale. This is an easy way to find a group of businesses coming together to make it easy to shop local and support the local economy. Help small businesses…shop online today and share this with your friends and family.
    If you are a Chamber member and are interested in selling your products on the site, contact the Chamber office at 515-986-5770 or email chamber@grimesiowa.com.

3/24/2020

Due to growing concerns regarding large public gatherings due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, and information being shared from the CDC and WHO, Grimes Chamber and Economic Development feels it best to indefinitely postpone the eXpo, which was scheduled for Tuesday, March 24. GCED hopes and plans to reschedule this event; however, it is not known when exactly that will be at this time. As soon as GCED is able to make this determination, an announcement will be made.

3/24/2020

business changes during pandemic
• In response to the COVID-19 recommendations from the CDC, IDPH, and the IOA, Total Family Eye Care has made the decision to suspend all non-emergent ocular care until further notice.
As of Monday, March 23, Total Family Eye Care will remain open on a limited basis with a limited staff for urgent and emergent care.
Rescheduling comprehensive eye examination appointments has begun. If you have an appointment scheduled with in the next two weeks, the team will be reaching out to get you rescheduled and take care of any needs during the interim.
Optical will remain available but will be implementing strategic safety protocols to ensure you receive your glasses and contact lenses. Contact the office for further instruction.
Dr. Howie and Dr. Mallori will be on call in the event of an ocular emergency. If you experience an ocular emergency, contact the office at 515-986-1234
• El Huapango Mexican Restuarant is offering take-out service. Call the restaurant at 515-986-0741, place your order and pay by phone. When you arrive, call the restaurant, and someone will bring your order out to your vehicle.
• Pizzas at Food Depot Bar and Grill are available for take and bake. They can also do breakfast options.
• Beisser Lumber Company is open for business. To keep the community and employees safe, the showrooms are currently open by appointment only. If you need to order materials, call your branch.
• Bankers Trust Company reminds the community to be on guard against scams. Scammers are taking advantage of the fear surrounding the coronavirus outbreak. Beware of spoofed hospital and business websites offering cures to the virus, fake charities asking for donations via cash and wire transfers, and phishing alerts that appear to come from the World Health Organization (WHO) or Centers For Disease Control (CDC).
Protect yourself from scams by:
• Avoiding clicking on links from sources you don’t know
• Visiting WHO and CDC sites directly for news and updates
• Ignoring online offers for coronavirus vaccines and treatments
• Researching charities before donating
For more information, read this Education Center article: education.bankerstrust.com.

3/24/2020

If you and your family are out walking or driving in Grimes, the Parks and Recreation Department has a small  challenge for you. See if you can find the seven hidden signs that have been placed in selected parks.
If you spot the sign, take a family photo or a selfie with the sign and see how many you can locate. Once your venture is complete, tag the Parks and Recreation Department in your photos on social media (Facebook or Instagram) so staff can see how many you found. If you collect photos with all seven signs, your name will be entered into a drawing for the grand prize.
You will have until Friday, March 27 to locate these signs before they will be moved to a different location. Next Saturday morning, March 28, Parks and Recreation will supply you with new locations and maps for you to venture out to find the signs.
The Parks and Recreation Department encourages you to follow all CDC recommendations and continue to practice social distancing.️

3/24/2020

As the City of Grimes continues its response to the coronavirus pandemic; here is some updated and additional information.
City facilities remain closed to the public and the city is continuing to provide services electronically and over the phone whenever possible. In cases where that does not work, arrangements will be made to accommodate. Facilities that are closed to the public include City Hall, Grimes Public Library, Grimes Community Complex, and restrooms and concessions at the sports complexes or in the parks.
Facilities that are not closed to the public include, but are not limited to, roads, sidewalks, parks, trails, playground equipment, open air shelters and sports complexes. However, refrain from organized practices, games or tournaments. Additionally, note that playground equipment will not be sanitized. Therefore, parents will need to exercise their own independent judgment about whether or not their kids should play on the playground equipment.
Remember that the following options are available to Grimes’ customers:
• Utility accounts can be set up through the city’s website, utility payments can be made by ACH, by credit or debit card though the website, by phone, and by submitting checks or cash in a secure drop box outside city hall.
• Applications for development review, building permits and inspections can be submitted electronically. Payments can be mailed in or placed in the utility payment drop box at City Hall. If for some reason payment cannot be made, permits may be processed and inspections conducted; however occupancy permits will be held until payments can be processed. Inspections will continue as normal for new construction projects, or projects located outside of a residence or occupied building. Inspections for occupied homes and buildings are discontinued unless digital measures such as video-calling areavailable for requested inspections.
• Recreational programming can be done via the website, and when or wherever cancellations are necessary the city will work to refund fees.
• Public meetings, such as city council, planning and zoning, board of adjustments, park board, library board, tree board, public health and safety board, etc. will continue electronically via the Zoom meeting platform. When agendas are posted, they will include the needed dial-in and log-in informationso that the public can participate.
Finally, if you are not feeling well, please stay home.

3/18/2020

The Celebration of Life Service for Marilyn Van Haaften that was scheduled for Thursday, March 26 at 2 p.m. at St. Peter Lutheran has been postponed until a future date.  

3/17/2020

The City of Grimes has made plans and preparations to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. It has investigated a number of issues related to business continuity and has taken the following steps in the interest of public health and that of its employees.
Following Gov. Kim Reynolds’ announcement of community spread and the Iowa Legislature’s example of suspending the legislative session, starting on Monday, March 16, all city facilities will be closed to the public. The situation will be monitored continuously and a determination about reopening city facilities will be as the situation evolves.
The public is encouraged to conduct business with the city electronically or over the phone whenever possible. In cases where that does not work, arrangements will be made to accommodate. It is worth noting the following are already available to our customers:
• Utility accounts can be set up through the city’s website, utility payments can be made by ACH, by credit or debit card though the website, by phone, and by submitting checks or cash in a secure dropbox outside city hall.
• Building permits and inspections can also be submitted electronically and the city is working though how to take payments for those fees remotely. Payments can be mailed in or placed in the utility payment dropbox at city hall. As a fall back, and with the permission of the Development Services Director, permits may be processed and inspections conducted; however, occupancy permits will be held until payments can be processed.
• Recreational programming can be done via the website and when or wherever cancellations are necessary the city will work to refund fees.
If you are not feeling well, please stay home. We ask that everyone acknowledge that a certain amount of give and take may become necessary as the situation evolves.

3/17/2020

Due to growing concerns regarding large public gatherings due to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, and information being shared from the CDC and WHO, Grimes Chamber and Economic Development feels it best to indefinitely postpone the eXpo, which was scheduled for Tuesday, March 24. GCED hopes and plans to reschedule this event; however, it is not known when exactly that will be at this time. As soon as GCED is able to make this determination, an announcement will be made.

3/17/2020

According to an email sent out by Supt. Scott Grimes, effective March 16, child care in each elementary school is cancelled, all activity/athletic practices and gatherings are cancelled and any other type of district-affiliated activity or student gathering is cancelled. DC-G schools are closed until April 13.

3/17/2020

Grimes Public Library is closed to the public until further notice. From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 the library will offer “take out” service. You are welcome to come to the library parking lot to pick up holds and other items you have placed on hold. You will not be allowed to enter the building. Call 515-986-3551 to let staff know you have arrived. Staff will check out the items to your account and bring them to your car for you.

3/17/2020

All worship services, meetings and events at St. Peter Lutheran Church are cancelled until further notice, The church office will be staffed to answer email and phone calls during normal church office hours. If you need to reach someone outside of normal office hours email Jill Capps at faithformation@stpeterofgrimes.org.

3/16/2020

With an abundance of caution, GVSS is going to restrict its trips for at least the next two weeks to only essential trips.  Essential trips are considered dialysis, chemotherapy or any life preserving trip.  This does not include trips for shopping or hair appointments, for example.
 You may already know, the senior meal site is closed for the next two weeks as well.  We will be trying our best to deliver meals to our clients regularly scheduled for meals, dependent upon volunteer availability.
 If you are regularly scheduled for trips to the meal site you can call us at 986-5355 and let us know whether or not you would like to have those meals delivered.
 If you have something that appears to be non essential currently scheduled, you will be contacted by Loree to reschedule.
 If you have questions, please feel free to contact us at 986-5355. Please know our physical office will be closed to visitors but we will be checking voicemails and taking calls.
 A reminder to our faithful volunteers. It goes without saying that you should never feel pressured to take a trip, even if you have already scheduled it. Things change and this past two weeks is a classic example. If you no longer feel comfortable taking a trip you have agreed to before, please feel free to call us and cancel your participation. Many trips already schedule will be cancelled anyway. Foremost, we want you to feel comfortable with your participation.

3/13/2020

The inaugural DC-G Booster Club cake auction took place on Feb. 14 in the Meadows gym and commons. This event was a tremendous success, and the Booster Club looks forward to carrying on this new tradition for years to come. Seventy-nine cakes were submitted for judging.
There were three live auctions held in the gym with the highest bid coming in at $2,600. The silent auction took place in the commons along with the cake and ice cream social. The total amount of funds raised was just shy of $12,500. Funds raised from the auction will be used to purchase equipment and uniforms for all of the programs offered at DC-G.

3/10/2020

A Celebration of Life service for Marilyn Van Haaften will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 26 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Grimes. Refreshments will be served after the service in Fellowship Hall.
Marilyn Van Haaften passed on Feb. 26. 

3/10/2020

The following DC-G sixth grade ELP students participated in the National History Bee. These students  qualified to go to the Regional Finals in Clarinda on March 14: Bodee Krob, Aiden Leiran, Holden Quandt, Hunter Quandt, Cael Ramsey, Oliver Rouse, Hayden Wagner, Elle Wedeking and Caden White.

3/10/2020

During the month of February, 35 drivers for Grimes Volunteer Support Services provided 345 trips for clients in the Grimes area, 198 of which were getting seniors to and from the Grimes Senior Meal Site. GVSS also had six minor repairs or light cleaning, 22 personal assistances, 25 snow removals and five durable medical equipment loans.  During the last month, 41 volunteers drove 3,152 miles and spent 596 hours assisting others or organizing and administering the program so GVSS could assist its clients. All of this was provided to clients without charge.
Since GVSS is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit corporation, volunteers are important.
GVSS has no staff of any kind. No one is paid for his or her time. Drivers donate their time, their car, their gas, etc.
Keep in mind that GVSS is currently averaging more than 365 trips a month. This is why its information indicates you need to give at least six days notice of a trip request. If a trip is requested in two or three, often all of the available drivers are scheduled. About half of the drivers each month are folks who still work, and many do not have as much flexibility as retired folks about when they can take a trip.
Another issue to be aware of is that medical clinics often call their patients and want to give them a sooner appointment time. They are trying to keep their schedule each day full. So when someone cancels, they call others and offer a sooner appointment.
Be aware that if you shift your appointment to within fewer than six days, you are putting your chance of a GVSS ride at risk. Next time you may want to say, “No, I’ll keep the appointment I have.”
GVSS office hours are 9-11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The office is located at 404 Second St., Suite 100 in the Governors District. Home visits can be arranged by calling 515-986-5355.

3/10/2020

Shane Goodman was the recipient of the President’s Memorial Award for Distinguished Service on Friday, March 6 at the Midwest Free Community Papers Conference and Trade Show at the Renaissance Savery Hotel in Des Moines.
The award was presented to Goodman by MFCP board member Greg Birkett in honor of Goodman’s “unselfish commitment to MFCP’s goals and purposes.” The award is presented in respectful memory of MFCP’s past presidents.
Goodman is the president of Big Green Umbrella Media Inc. in Johnston and is the publisher of CITYVIEW, 19 zoned Iowa Living magazines, five zoned Adviser publications and a variety of other niche publications, websites and digital components.
MFCP is an association of free paper publishers in the Midwest with a mission to improve publications through education and the exchange of ideas and information. The association celebrated its 65th anniversary with many past presidents from across the Midwest in attendance.

3/10/2020

PTO district elections are Monday, April 13. The following positions are open for the upcoming school year: North Ridge Elementary president, South Prairie Elementary president, accounts payable treasurer, and district secretary. To express your interest or find out more about these open volunteer positions, contact dallascentergrimespto@gmail.com.

3/10/2020

Q: What's brown, hairy and wears sunglasses?
A: A coconut on spring break.

3/3/2020

• Compost-it! collection begins Monday, April 6.
• Spring cleanup will be May 7, 8 and 9 depending on your address. Details will be included in the next City of Grimes newsletter.
• Get rid of common hazardous materials at the Northwest Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off in Grimes. Available the second Saturday of each month March through December from 8 a.m. to noon. Located on S.E. Beisser Drive, by way of S.E. 37th Street, just a half-mile west of Iowa Highway 141.
• Do you have an older working refrigerator or freezer in your basement or garage? Rebates are available if you’re a MidAmerican Energyelectric customer: www.midamericanenergy.com/ia_qualifications-and-conditions.
• Don’t forget to break down cardboard before putting it in the dumpster at 200 N. James. If the dumpster is full, please do not leave it outside of the dumpster; wait until it has been emptied.

3/3/2020

Grimes Citywide Garage Sales will be held Saturday, May 2. Have your sale listed on the sale map for $5. Deadline to sign up for map is April 22 at noon. Register for listing at www.grimesia.activityreg.com

3/3/2020

The Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire Department (JGMFD) is proud to serve both communities to ensure the safety of residents in their homes. With Daylight Saving Time approaching on March 8, the JGMFD reminds residents to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. If you need assistance with the checks, the JGMFD is here to help.   
The JGMFD received $5,000 from the “Close Before You Doze” campaign and $1,000 from Kwik Star. These grants allowed the fire department to purchase smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and batteries. The American Red Cross is also a partner and provides smoke alarms. The department’s goal is to perform checks while at a resident’s home during a medical call; however, there may be times when this is not possible due to the type of call. But the department will leave a card for the resident to call back to schedule a time for the check.      
Residents within Johnston or Grimes can take advantage of this service by contacting the fire marshal at 515-251-7692. A call to schedule a check could help save your life.

3/3/2020

Bob King, DC-G bus driver and Dallas Center resident, was announced the winner of the 2020 Healthiest State Individual Impact Award, presented by the Healthiest State Initiative. The award recognizes King’s efforts to improve the physical, social and emotional well-being of his fellow citizens.
King is a founder of Sustaining Active Independent Living in Dallas Center (SAILDC). He also serves on numerous other boards including Dallas Center’s Healthy Hometown task force, Dallas Center Rotary, Dallas Center Betterment Foundation and Dallas Center Parks & Recreation Board.Some of the projects King has contributed his grant writing and community coordination efforts toward include a new community garden at Dallas Center Elementary School with six raised beds, physical activity opportunities in the Dallas Center community including a new tennis court, pickleball court and ice rink. King also worked with the Rotary Club and designed and built a shaded set of benches near Spurgeon Manor and the Raccoon River Valley Bike Trail. In addition, King worked with Dallas Center and ordinances were updated to ban vaping in all public areas, a walkability study of the entire community was completed and is now guiding city efforts to improve sidewalks and trails and a pop-up produce stand with inexpensive fruits and vegetables now comes to the city monthly in the public library.

3/3/2020

Rachel Ihde, DC-G senior, is a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship. The mission of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is to recognize and honor academically talented students across the United States. NMSC accomplishes its mission by conducting nationwide academic scholarship programs. The goals of NMSC’s scholarship program are to look for students who promote a wider and deeper respect for learning and to encourage the pursuit of academic excellence at all levels of education. Later this month, NMSC will begin mailing offer letters to the scholarship recipients. Ihde is one of 7,500 students from across the country who have successfully met all requirements to advance to the finals.

2.24.2020

School registration opens online March 1 for the 2020-2021 school year at www.dcgschools.com. All existing and new families need to register.
Families with students currently enrolled at DC-G, use your Campus Portal account to access online registration. You will be able to add a student to your account if you have a child who will be entering the district preschool, kindergarten, or other grade level for the first time.
New families to the DC-G District should follow the steps listed on the district website: www.dcgschools.com, registration tab 2020-2021.
Preschool deadline: Register incoming preschool students March 1-18. If you are not registered by March 18, there is no guarantee that your child will have a spot. If you have a child who will be 4 on or before Sept.15, 2020, register for PreK 4.(4-year-old preschool will be taken until all spots are filled). If you have a child who will be 3 on or before Sept. 15, 2020, register for PreK 3 (3-year-old preschool will be filled by a random drawing).
2020-2021 kindergarten information: To project enrollment numbers, register incoming kindergarten students as soon as possible (starting March 1). If you have a child who will be 5 on or before Sept. 15, 2020, register for kindergarten (full days) or optional kindergarten (half days).

2.24.20202

Registration for plots in the Grimes Giving Garden will begin at 8 a.m. Monday, March 2, in person only.
Maranatha Baptist Church members and last year’s garden owners can register for a plot in person at the Grimes Community Complex, 410 S.E. Main St. and sign the garden contract. Cost is $10 per plot and is limited to two plots per family. No online registration is available.
Other Grimes community members and non-residents can register in person beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, March 16.
Plots will be assigned by the Rec Department on Monday, March 30. Emails will be sent out with map of plot owners.
Plots can be tilled April 1-15, weather pending.
The plots are located west and northwest of Maranatha Baptist Church, 877 S.E. 19th St.Water is located on the west side of the church.

2.24.20202

The Emerald Ash Borer has infected the trees along the southwest edge of the walking trail in the South Prairie Sports Complex.
Preston Palm plans to plant 20-25 new trees in those areas to replace those infected for his Eagle Scout project and needs to raise $500, either in cash or checks made payable to City of Grimes. Call with questions at 515-360-1525 or email stevepalm@netins.net.