Lasting contributions that have shaped Iowa’s food culture
7/1/2026
CITYVIEW’s Hall of Iowa Culinary Excellence (CHOICE) Awards celebrate Iowa’s enduring culinary pioneers and institutions. Established in 2015, the awards recognize individuals and businesses whose lasting contributions have shaped the state’s food culture. The 2026 Master Class honors four recipients. Mariana Gomez of Tacos Mariana’s is recognized for three decades of authentic Mexican cuisine and community leadership. Tony Lemmo of Aposto is celebrated for restoring a historic Sherman Hill mansion and building a nationally respected scratch-made Italian restaurant centered on garden-grown ingredients. Shawn and Ted Hanke of Waterfront Seafood are honored for four decades of pioneering fresh seafood in Iowa. Ling Wong of Wong’s Chopsticks is recognized for preserving traditional Cantonese cuisine and authentic dim sum in central Iowa. Read about each in this feature story by Jim Duncan.
Around the campfire
Whether campers prefer pitching a tent beneath the stars or parking a luxury RV with modern conveniences, central Iowa offers plenty of nearby options. Outdoor gear experts recommend beginners start with quality used equipment and essential items like water filters, comfortable chairs and bug spray. Private campgrounds such as Cutty’s Camping Resort provide a community atmosphere with full hookups, family activities, pools and an elaborate Fourth of July celebration. Those seeking a more traditional outdoor experience can visit Iowa state parks like Pine Lake State Park, which offers campsites, cabins, hiking, biking, fishing and paddling. With more than 4,300 campsites statewide, Iowa’s parks and private campgrounds make it easy to enjoy nature without traveling far from home. Be sure to read this feature story by Cyote Williams before your next trek into the great outdoors.
Craftsmanship and dedication
When favorite shoes wear out, many people replace them. But for hundreds of customers in the Des Moines metro, Jamie Blackford helps give them new life. Blackford, owner of Blackford Shoe Repair in Urbandale, has spent 42 years repairing everything from work boots and cowboy boots to running shoes, Birkenstocks and dress shoes. Operating as a one-man shop, he repairs more than 500 pairs of shoes at a time while also answering phones and managing the business. Although the workload is heavy, Blackford enjoys the challenge, especially complex repairs. iIn this month’s Business Journal feature, writer Gracie Kayko shares how his craftsmanship and dedication have helped keep a traditional trade alive while saving customers money and extending the life of their footwear.
Enjoy these stories and much more in this issue of 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
