A cultural reset

Winter has finally loosened its grip, and with it goes the long stretch of indoor hibernation. The heavy coats are retired, the gray skies begin to lift, and the outdoors suddenly feel like an invitation. This seasonal shift isn’t just about warmer temperatures. It’s a cultural reset.

Across parks, streets and public squares, arts and entertainment are stepping back into the open air. Musicians trade dimly lit bars for sunny sidewalks. Local theater groups experiment with pop-up performances under the sky. Even the simple act of watching a movie feels different when it is projected onto a screen beneath the stars.

There is something uniquely communal about outdoor creativity. Strangers linger longer, conversations spark more easily, and art becomes less formal, more accessible. You don’t need a ticket or a plan — just a willingness to wander and discover. 

Winter may have its quiet charm, but spring and early summer belong to movement, color and shared experience. And right now, the stage is everywhere. Learn how you can participate in this month’s Arts and Entertainment Guide.  

God laughs

Jim Duncan’s essay this month is a reflective memoir tracing his family lore, his life lessons and the unpredictability of plans. He reflects on how modern politics has become polarized, eroding cooperation once seen in leaders who crossed party lines. He also recounts struggles with language learning, music and math, and the humor of repeated failure despite extensive study. The piece ultimately argues for humor, moderation and skepticism toward dogma, suggesting that adaptability and levity are essential for navigating life’s uncertainties. It notes that “God laughs” at human plans, encouraging acceptance of change and finding shelter in simplicity and perspective. It is a meditation on inherited stories, personal failure, cultural change and the value of humor in uncertainty. I enjoyed it, and I think you will, too.  

Getting comfortable with AI

Small businesses are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer experiences. AI tools can automate routine tasks such as scheduling, email responses, bookkeeping, and inventory management, allowing owners of local small businesses to focus more on strategy and growth. While challenges such as cost, learning curves and data privacy remain, AI is becoming more user-friendly and affordable, as you will see from examples in this month’s feature in our Business Journal.  

You will find all this and more in this month’s CITYVIEW. As always, I thank you for reading. ♦

Shane Goodman 
Editor and Publisher
CITYVIEW
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.dmcityview.com