Greetings, Cultural Catalysts:

4/9/2024

From Iowa’s cultural epicenter, Mainframe Studios at 900 Keosauqua Way in Des Moines, comes your Listener-supported Community Voice. The Award-Winning independent radio station, KFMG-LP 98.9 FM (streaming simultaneously at www.kfmg.org) brings you music, literature & cultural content.
– John Busbee for The Culture Buzz, a KFMG Charter Program
The Culture Buzz Archive Library – https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz
2014 Iowa Governor’s Award for Partnership & Collaboration in the Arts
2015 Iowa History Award for published magazine story, “Last Full Measure of Devotion”
2018 – voted Best Local Talk Radio Show
Cityview Magazine “Center Stage” columnist
Little Village Magazine “Contact Buzz” columnist www.TheCultureBuzz.com

Quote of the Week “Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed. If people all over the world…would do this, it would change the earth.” – William Faulkner (1897-1962). William Cuthbert Faulkner was an American writer known for his novels and short stories set in the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, based on Lafayette County, Mississippi, where Faulkner spent most of his life.

Curious about my primary source for reliable quotes? Visit Mardy Grothe’s exceptional free resource, Dr. Mardy’s Dictionary of Metaphorical Quotations – https://www.drmardy.com/dmdmq/

Newsletter content:

Special Cultural Headline news
I. Guests on this week’s show;
II. Performance Arts (Greater Des Moines/Iowa);
III. Visual Arts (Greater Des Moines/Iowa);
IV. Auditions and other Opportunities (Greater Des Moines/Iowa);
V. Planning ahead;
VI. Author events (Greater Des Moines/Iowa);
VII. Best-sellers, life resource books, Greater Des Moines performing arts organizations, Central Iowa indie book stores, cultural exploration resources, health & welfare resources

Flash Buzz –

Poetry Palooza 2024
Save April 19 and 20 at Grand View University for a nationally recognized celebration of poetry. In partnership with Humanities Iowa and the Iowa Poetry Association is hosting Poetry Palooza! a dynamic, interactive, and integrated performing arts experience. This festival celebrates esteemed poets, cultivates students and emerging talent, and demonstrates the positive power of poetry. https://www.poetryamp.org/poetry-palooza

The Penguin Project at The Playhouse seeks Peer Mentors for this year’s production of Disney’s Frozen Jr.
Do you have a special gift to help a peer succeed? Do you believe in the power of the arts? Do you care about people who are different than you? Do want to help, but don’t quite know how? Consider being a peer mentor for our Penguin Project production of Disney’s Frozen Jr.
The Penguin Project provides young individuals with disabilities the chance to express themselves through the performing arts. By pairing them with peer mentors who share the same love for theatre, The Penguin Project creates an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved. This unique approach not only allows young participants to showcase their talents but also fosters friendships, understanding, and empathy among the entire cast and crew.
Apply to be a Mentor, today! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdmzvg8Ed1gfa0ykxhD8lufpMZdIDQGbwDceWtLvOrwJHgGUw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR1j33ij2DjVHiFtBocKXhb1x3QwqENdqnd_nRRPmeWDqj7CuH-bMftI7FY_aem_AXQtzqyMGSrNQY_wb8kJH2eqS8VPgfur-ZPxaH-Kpi7kxJE2B1FPgH0mjjLgqILNZoN7V7LFrIE24P53BY_CjIRI

Be a team member of the grandest arts celebration event in Iowa
The Des Moines Arts Festival® presented by Nationwide is recruiting volunteers to fill over 800 volunteer shifts at the 2024 Festival – June 28 – 30. The volunteer program, sponsored by the Polk County Board of Supervisors, has been awarded Best Volunteer Program by the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) and will utilize volunteers starting Monday, June 24 through Sunday, June 30.
Volunteers are needed for set-up, tear-down, and a variety of activities to keep the Festival operating smoothly. These roles include supporting artists, festival greeters, Student Art Exhibition, selling merchandise, sharing information at the sustainability stations, and VIP Club management. Volunteers can sign-up individually or as a group. Each volunteer will receive a free t-shirt along with snacks, beverages, and a free drink coupon from Exile Brewing Company to use after the Festival.
New this year, the Festival is offering more group opportunities during Festival set-up and tear-down. www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/volunteer to sign-up through a VolunteerLocal hosted site. Questions can be directed to the Festival’s Volunteer Coordinator, Stacey Nay at volunteer@desmoinesartsfestival.org.

I. This week’s guests on The Culture Buzz –

11:00 AM – Susan Werner’s opens this edition of TCB with “Recumbent Bike,” a witty reference to bicyclists in her delightful album, EIGHT UNNECESSARY SONGS. “Always an impressive songwriter, Werner continues to compose sharp, funny, compassionate lyrics, a gift rare enough to set her apart…” – The Washington Post https://susanwerner.com/music/

11:04 AM – J. Greg Phelan is a writer, educator and enabler when it comes to assisting others on their paths to successful writing. He shares time and provides some insights into Book, Inc., a writing collective dedicated to helping each other draft, revise, and publish memoirs and novels. “Providing a nurturing development network for writers at the tipping point of taking their memoirs or novels from concept to reality, Book Inc. is a worthy source to consider for any writer seeking constructive support.” – The Culture Buzz https://bookinc.org/

11:24 AM – “Forgotten Populists: When Farmers Turned Left to Save Democracy” is a masterfully researched and wonderfully articulate overview of a special part of history. Steve Babson shares glimpses into his book, which provides a deep understanding of how America’s agrarian segment has provided the framework for democracy. “Forgotten Populists couldn’t be appearing at a more timely—actually urgent—moment. It’s a superb short book that looks at the Populist challenge to corporate greed and monied interests in the politics of 1890s America. The term ‘populist’ has been distorted and misused for decades and Babson shows why. He writes clearly, sharply, and passionately, and the book is especially timely for understanding the present and the future.” – Harley Shaiken, Professor Emeritus, University of California / Berkeley https://www.forgottenpopulists.com/

11:43 AM – With a growing legion of fans awaiting her latest book, Laurie Frankel delivers with aplomb as “Family, Family” is a satisfying literary dive into adoption, family, and truth in media. Richly developed characters, places and storylines weave a most engaging tale. “Frankel’s back…Full of warmth, humor, and sound advice.” – Kirkus Reviews https://www.lauriefrankel.net/

12:00 PM – Opens this Friday. Ankeny Community Theatre prepares to immerse its audiences in a suspenseful classic as “Dial M for Murder.” Listen as Director Dan Chase, and two cast members, Paul Olson (as Tony) and Shelby Jensen (as Margot) share great glimpses into this production as it develops towards opening night. https://www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com/dial-ldquomrdquo-for-murder.html

12:22 PM – This weekend. One of Central Iowa’s most respected cultural leaders shares insights into the upcoming Des Moines Symphony concert, “Discover Symphonic Dance.” Maestro Joseph Giunta shares tantalizing details about this inspirational blending of orchestral magnificence and cutting-edge dance. This concert is Apr 13 & 14. https://dmsymphony.org/concerts-events/discover-symphonic-dance/

12:37 PM – Mark Rasmussen, Iowa State University Professor Emeritus and former head of the prestigious Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, shares his rich background of expertise and experience in assessing Iowa’s state for sustainable agriculture and protection of key natural resources: the land and its water – as well as the disparity in taxes between farmers and the rest of Iowa.

12:40 PM – Opening Apr 19. Tallgrass Theatre Company prepares to open its next show Apr 19 when “The Good Doctor,” a stellar collective of interwoven vignettes by Neil Simon and Anton Chekhov, bursts onto its stage for a 3-week run. Director Shawn Wilson is joined by veteran actors and regional stage favorites, Mary Bricker and Joe Smith, to chat about this special show and why it’s about time Central Iowa had a chance to experience the wit, charm, heart, and soul of this brilliant script. https://tallgrasstheatre.org/tickets/

II. Performance Arts

1. Ankeny Community Theatre. “Dial M for Murder.” Apr 12-21. https://www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com/
2. Iowa Stage Theatre Company – Special Event. The Inheritance of Women poems by Suzanna de Baca. Apr 15, 7 PM at TeeHee’s Comedy Club. Iowa Stage’s ScripTease in April, celebrates Poetry Palooza Apr 19-20 at Grand View University, and Iowa Stage’s own season of “Ladies First”. Join Iowa Stage with an evening of poetry presented by a number of their own Repertory Players. https://www.iowastage.org/scriptease
3. Tallgrass Theatre Company.”The Good Doctor.” Apr 19-May 5. https://tallgrasstheatre.org/tickets/
4. Poetry Palooza. Apr 19-20, Grand View University. This celebration of poetry has quickly become a national sensation. Poets laureate and other poetic stars abound. https://www.poetryamp.org/poetry-palooza
5. Comedy Xperiment. Apr 19-20, Stoner Theater at Des Moines Performing Arts. The premier improv comedy troupe in Iowa. https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/events/cxp-april-24/
6. Des Moines Community Playhouse. Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Thru Apr 21. https://www.dmplayhouse.com/events/beautiful-the-carole-king-musical/
7. Ballet Des Moines at Hoyt Sherman Place. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Apr 26-28. https://www.balletdesmoines.org/midsummer
8. Cambridge Collective Players at Palestine Lutheran Church, Cambridge IA. “Steel Magnolias,” featuring Van Harden as the DJ. Apr 26, Apr 27 (dinner theater perforance). Nazarenechurchcambridge@gmail.com or call 515-383-4328.
9. Des Moines Performing Arts. “Discover Gershwin,” an evening with Renée Elise Goldsberry, featuring the Des Moines Symphony. Goldsberry, who took the Broadway world by storm when she originated the role of Angelica in the blockbuster musical Hamilton, returns to Des Moines! Apr 27. https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/events/evening-with-renee-elise-goldsberry/
10. Des Moines Performing Arts. Apr 30-May 5. “MJ the Musical.” Apr 30-May 5. https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/events/mj-the-musical/
11. Des Moines Performing Arts – Temple Theater. “Improvised Shakespeare.” Apr 30-May 5. https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/events/the-improvised-shakespeare-company/

III. Visual Arts – Exhibitions

1. Olson-Larsen Galleries. HERE & THERE. Thru Apr 13. https://olsonlarsen.com/
2. Heritage Art Gallery. Des Moines Public Schools High School Art Exhibition \ Thru Apr 27. https://www.polkcountyheritagegallery.org/calendarmain#calendar-1
3. Des Moines Art Center. States of Becoming. Thru May 12. The Des Moines Art Center’s wide-ranging exhibition explores relocation, resettlement and assimilation in work by 17 contemporary artists who either immigrated to the United States themselves or were born to first-generation immigrants from a dozen African countries, plus tiny Trinidad and Tobago. https://desmoinesartcenter.org/art/exhibitions/states-of-becoming/

Visual Arts – Galleries & Found Space Exhibition Sites
1. Des Moines Art Center. 2 Re-connect with old favorites on exhibit from their permanent collection. Explore the constantly changing exhibits, from staff-curated to international, always ready to stimulate the imagination and senses. Always open (except holidays), always free. https://desmoinesartcenter.org/
2. Brunnier Art Museum. Ames. 2 This is the flagship for the University Museums, a treasure trove of visual arts immersion on the Iowa State University campus, which includes the Christian Petersen Art Museum, The Farm House Museum, the Anderson Sculpture Garden and the Art on Campus Collection. https://www.museums.iastate.edu/visit/brunnier-art-museum
3. The Grinnell College Museum of Art. Grinnell. 2 https://www.grinnell.edu/campus-life/arts-culture/museum
4. 2AU. West Des Moines. 1,2 http://www.2aulimited.com/
5. Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Des Moines 2 I added this destination for its unique value as a “living gallery,” where the constantly changing floral exhibitions entice and delight. https://www.dmbotanicalgarden.com/
6. Heritage Art Gallery. 2 Des Moines. http://www.polkcountyheritagegallery.org/
7. Hoyt Sherman Place Art Gallery. 2 Des Moines. https://hoytsherman.org/gallery/
8. IN Tandem Arts & Authors. 1,2 Des Moines. https://www.facebook.com/INTandemArtsAndAuthors/
9. Kavanaugh Art Gallery. West Des Moines. 1,2 https://kavanaughgallery.com/
10. Kunzler Studios. West Des Moines. 1,2 kunzlerstudios.com
11. Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design. Des Moines. https://www.lizlidgett.com/
12. Moberg Gallery. Des Moines. 2 https://moberggallery.com/
13. Olson-Larsen Galleries. West Des Moines.1,2 https://olsonlarsen.com/
14. Polk County Heritage Gallery. Des Moines. 2 http://www.polkcountyheritagegallery.org/
15. Ritual Café. Des Moines. 2 https://www.facebook.com/ritualcafedesmoines/
16. Slow Down Coffee Shop. Des Moines. 2 https://www.theslowdowndsm.com/
17. Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure. Des Moines. 2 https://www.facebook.com/ZanzibarsCoffeeAdventure/
1Visit these galleries open during semi-annual Historic Valley Junction Gallery Nights.
2Check website for current exhibitions.

IV. Auditions, Volunteer, and other Enhancement Opportunities – “The Arts is a Contact Sport”

· Audition – Ankeny Community Theatre. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Apr 13 at 1:30 PM, Apr 14 at 6 PM. Possible call backs on Apr 15 at 6 PM. https://www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com/whos-afraid-of-virginia-woolf.html
· Audition – Des Moines Community Playhouse. School of Rock. Apr 15 at 6:30 PM. https://www.dmplayhouse.com/auditions/school-of-rock/
· Audition – Des Moines Young Artists’ Theatre. The Prom. Apr 20, 21 from 1-4 PM at Franklin Jr High. https://www.dmyat.org/theprom
· Additional volunteer opportunities abound – with the seasons ramping up, now is a great time to explore how to find other ways to engage with Central Iowa theatre companies. Assistance is always welcome, from costume and set building, to ushering, to back stage crew, find a short-term commitment that will be immensely gratifying.

Check the websites of the theatre companies listed below to consider a wide range of volunteer opportunities.
1. Ankeny Community Theatre. https://www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com/audition.html
2. Carousel Theatre of Indianola. https://carouseltheatre.org/?page_id=344
3. Class Act Productions (CAP). http://www.captheatre.org/main/expect/
4. Des Moines Community Playhouse. https://www.dmplayhouse.com/audition-2/
5. Des Moines Performing Arts. https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/
6. Des Moines Young Artists Theatre. https://www.dmyat.org/
7. Iowa Shakespeare Experience. https://www.iowashakespeare.org/
8. Iowa Stage Theatre Company. https://www.iowastage.org/audition
9. Once in a While Productions. https://www.facebook.com/groups/6717224708342610/
10. Pyramid Theatre Company. http://pyramidtheatre.org/
11. Tallgrass Theatre Company. https://tallgrasstheatre.org/audition/
12. Urbandale Community Theatre. https://urbandaletheatre.com/get-involved/

V. Planning ahead

Spring Gallery Night on April 19, Valley Junction showcases new work by regional, national, and international artists. Check out original artwork, custom jewelry, ceramics, glass, furniture, folk art, fine art reproductions, and other one-of-a-kind objects at multiple locations throughout the district. This event is free and open to the public. https://valleyjunction.com/valley-junction-events/gallery-night/

Des Moines Symphony – Discover Gershwin
Des Moines Performing Arts, presenting a one-night only performance by multi-talented actress and singer Renee Elise Goldsberry, on Sat Apr 27. She’s perhaps BEST known for her Tony, Grammy and Drama Desk award-winning performance as Angelica in the musical phenomenon Hamilton. She’s also an Emmy-nominated performer from Girls5eva, She Hulk and The Good Wife. Backed by the Des Moines Symphony, Goldsberry will perform Broadway hits, jazz standards and gospel numbers. https://desmoinesperformingarts.org/events/evening-with-renee-elise-goldsberry/

Okoboji Writers Retreat adds major musical focus to immersive event
Make plans to attend the 2024 Okoboji Writers’ Retreat and its newest addition, the Okoboji Songwriters Retreat. Critically acclaimed, with attendees often returning for more, this event will be held at the Iowa Lakeside Laboratory and the Presbyterian Camp at Lakeshore Center, which is adjacent to Lakeside Laboratory on West Lake, Okoboji, Iowa.
The annual Okoboji Writers’ Retreat, September 22-25, will now feature workshops for songwriters on topics ranging from ‘Storytelling through Song,’ ‘Nashville Bound,’ ‘’Collaboration,’ and ‘The Business of Being a Musician.’  To learn more about the event: https://okobojiwritersretreat.com/

Applications Now Open for Community Outreach Program
The Des Moines Arts Festival® presented by Nationwide has opened applications for the Community Outreach Program presented by the MidAmerican Energy Foundation. The award-winning program offers non-profit organizations the opportunity to participate in the Festival and share their mission and programming with thousands of guests free of charge thanks to funding from the MidAmerican Energy Foundation. The Des Moines Arts Festival is June 28 – 30, 2024 in Western Gateway Park.
Non-profit organizations that are accepted into the Community Outreach Program are supplied with a Festival booth, signage, basic infrastructure, and a $250 stipend for supplies or staffing. In turn, the non-profits are required to provide an interactive arts-related activity along with staff to manage the booth. The non-profit organizations may display signage and distribute information within their booth.
All non-profit organization spaces are part of the Festival’s “Creative Zone”, located on 15th Street between Locust St. and Grand Avenue. MidAmerican Energy Company’s Boom Art will also be located within the Creative Zone. “The Community Outreach Program is one of the most popular areas of the Festival,” said Stephen King, Executive Director of the Des Moines Arts Festival. “MidAmerican Energy Foundation’s support not only provides a free marketing opportunity to Central Iowa non-profits but it also provides free activities for all of our guests.”
Space is limited to 20 non-profit organizations. To learn more and apply, interested non-profits should visit www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/cop
Applications Close: May 10, 2024. Selected organizations notified on or by May 17, 2024

MIXED PICKLES: THE ART OF VICTORIAN PHOTO COLLAGE
The Jordan House Museum, 2001 Fuller Rd., West Des Moines. Sun May 19, 2 – 4 PM.
The West Des Moines Historical Society and Olson-Larsen Galleries have teamed up again
to combine art and history! In the parlors and drawing rooms of grand homes, and amidst the flickering glow of gas lamps, Victorian women composed visual symphonies showcasing family in whimsical and fantastic settings. Thus, the exquisite art of Victorian photo collaging was born. Participants in the Mixed Pickles activity will have the opportunity to learn about the history of photo collage and spend an afternoon creating your own personalized works with guidance from Olson-Larsen Galleries artist, Mary Jones, all while enjoying tea and confections in the parlor of the Jordan House Museum. Some images will be provided, but please bring photographs, magazines or old books that you don’t mind cutting up and manipulating through coloring or combining with other images. Tickets are $20 per person and will cover supplies and treats. The event capacity is 20 participants, so get your tickets before they’re gone! I’ll be the perfect Sunday Funday activity for gal pals or kids + parents! Ages 12 and up are welcome.
Purchase tickets HERE: https://westdesmoineshistoricalsociety.ticketspice.com/mixed-pickles-the-art-of-
victorian-photocollage?fbclid=IwAR3Y3hnK3A0tNzV5FzRKm-
9iA1HQpg6x3FQT5bDbbgrxURpFlPjOr2f5azc

VI. Between the covers – author/book events worth noting:

1. Beaverdale Books – Meet the Poets: Kyle McCord and Paul Brooke. What to Do in a Time of Impending Doom and Pantagruelian: Photographs and Poems of Torres del Paine. Apr 8, 6:30 PM.
2. AViD Author Series at Scottish Rite Consistory, 519 Park Street – James Patterson, “The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians.” Apr 10, 7 PM.
3. Beaverdale Books – Sarah McCammon. The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church. Apr 12, 6:30 PM.
4. Beaverdale Books – Tom McKay. “Lost in the Black Hologram.” Apr 13 2:30 PM.
5. Beaverdale Books at Franklin Avenue Library – Lyndsay Currie. The Mystery of Locked Rooms. Apr 15, 6:30 PM.
6. Beaverdale Books – Meet the poets, Kwame Dawes and Danez Smith. “Nebraska” and “Homie.” Apr 15, 6:30 PM.
7. Beaverdale Books – Caroline Paul. Tough Broad: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking – How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age. Apr 16, 6:30 PM.
8. Beaverdale Books – Dennis Maulsby, poet. KU. Apr 17, 6:30 PM.
9. Beaverdale Books – Poetry Palooza at Gand View University Apr 19, 20. https://www.poetryamp.org/poetry-palooza
10. Beaverdale Books – Dave Markward. “From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond: My Journey to Understand Racism in America.” Apr 25, 6:30 PM.
11. Beaverdale Books – Mary Christopher, Mike Rowley. “Woodland Cemetery in Des Moines.” Apr 30, 6:30 PM.

Recurring bookstore events –
1. Beaverdale Books – Hunter’s Classics Book Club (2nd Tue, 7:00 PM); Beaverdale Book Browsers Club (2nd Thu, 6:30 PM); Urbandale UCC Book Club (3rd Thu); Books and Bonbons (3rd Thu, 7:00 PM); Environmental Book Club (3rd Sat); Mystery Book Club (4th Tue, 7:00 PM)
2. Storyhouse Bookpub – Storytimes (Saturdays 11:00 AM)
3. Dogeared Books – Dog-Eared official book club (one Thu/month, 10-11 AM); Between the Covers (one Sat/month, 7-8 PM); Women from Other Words book club (one Mon/month 5-6 PM); Translation book club (one Fri/month, 7-8 PM); Books & Beverages – the book club experience without the commitment (one Thu/month, 6-7 PM)
4. Capital City Pride – Book club meets every other month, rotating to different independent book stores. For titles being read and dates, locations, visit: https://www.capitalcitypride.org/pride-book-club

VII. Beaverdale Books provides Bestseller Lists on their website, including a parade of Iowa-authored books to consider. Many Iowa authors also have recordings archived in The Culture Buzz Podcast Library (https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz). https://beaverdalebooks.com/news/

March bestsellers are:
1. This American Ex-Wife: How I Ended My Marriage and Started My Life, Lyz Lenz*
2. Tending Iowa’s Land: Pathways to a Sustainable Future, Cornelia F. Mutel*
3. The Women, Kristin Hannah
4. Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food Industry, Austin Frerick*
5. Wandering Stars, Tommy Orange
6. Martyr!, Kaveh Akbar*
7. James, Percival Everett
8. Welcome Home, Bonne Doron*
9. Reading Genesis, Marilynne Robinson*
10. North Woods, Daniel Mason
* Iowa authors
Here are some great Iowa author titles to consider adding to your library:
· The Long Way Back, Nicole Baart*
· The Lincoln Highway in Iowa: A History, Darcy Daugherty Maulsby*
· Baking Blue Ribbons: Stories and Recipes from the Iowa State Fair Competitions, Kay Fenton Smith* and Carol McGarvey*
· Omari’s Big Tree and the Mighty Djembe, Abena Sankofa Imhotep*
· The Leora’s Letters Dexter Trilogy, plus What Leora Never Knew Joy Neal Kidney* (4 books, each sold separately)

*Highlighted author names indicate interviews are in The Culture Buzz Archive Library.
Please visit: https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz

Life Resource books worth your consideration –
1. Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind: A Food-First Plan to Optimize Your Mental Health. Dr. Georgia Ede. Combine the surprising truth about brain food with the cutting edge of brain metabolism to achieve extraordinary emotional, cognitive, and physical health. “This book is an invaluable resource and guide for anyone looking to enhance their health and life through the thoughtful integration of nutrition.” – David Perlmutter, MD https://www.diagnosisdiet.com/change-your-diet-change-your-mind
2. Happy AF: Simple Strategies to Get Unstuck, Bounce Back, and Live Your Best Life.
Beth Romero. Fresh, insightful, and grounded academic research, this cheeky, no-nonsense manifesto offers practical strategies and easy-to-follow exercises for flexing your happiness muscle and maximizing your potential — essentially laying out the blueprint for how to be happy AF and live your best life. “A sharp, sometimes witty, often helpful map for pointing your life in the direction of happiness.” – Kirkus Reviews https://bethromeroauthor.com/
3. The Island of the Four Ps: A Modern Fable about Preparing for Your Future. Ed Hajim. Ed shares his wealth of experience, challenges and success, distilling it with a clarity and appeal that will benefit everyone desiring great advice through this allegorical telling in planning their future. “This wonderful fable draws on the hard-won life lessons of fabled financier Ed Hajim. … For those on a similar quest, let Ed be your guide through reading this allegorical tale. It informs and inspires.” —Mark Zupan, President, Alfred University https://www.edhajim.com/

Check out insightful interviews in The Culture Buzz Podcast Library at https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz

Performing Arts & Cultural Organizations
Please check in advance regarding any scheduled performances, exhibitions, museum visits, etc.
Ankeny Community Theatre – www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com; Facebook: Ankeny Community Theatre
Ballet Des Moines – https://www.balletdesmoines.org/
Carousel Theatre of Indianola – www.carouseltheatre.org; Facebook: Carousel Theatre Indianola
Central Iowa Wind Ensemble – https://www.facebook.com/CentralIowaWindEnsemble/
Civic Music Association – https://civicmusic.org/
Class Act Productions – www.captheatre.org; Facebook: CAP Theatre
Des Moines Community Playhouse/Kate Goldman Theatre – www.dmplayhouse.com; Facebook: DMPlayhouse
Des Moines Metro Opera – https://desmoinesmetroopera.org/
Des Moines Performing Arts/Temple Theater/Stoner Studio Theater –
featuring an eclectic mix of Broadway national tours, symphony, music and more www.desmoinesperformingarts.org; Facebook: Des Moines Performing Arts
Des Moines Symphony – https://www.dmsymphony.org/
Des Moines Young Artists’ Theatre – www.dmyat.org; Facebook: DM Young Artists Theatre
Hoyt Sherman Place Theatre – featuring an eclectic mix of music, comedy, dance and more https://hoytsherman.org/calendar/events/#all
Iowa Shakespeare Experience – www.iowashakespeare.org; Facebook: Iowa Shakespeare Experience
Iowa Stage Theatre Company – www.iowastage.org; Facebook: Iowa Stage Theatre Company
Pyramid Theatre Company – www.pyramidtheatre.org; Facebook: Pyramid Theatre Company
Science Center of Iowa – https://www.sciowa.org/; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciowa
Tallgrass Theatre Company – www.tallgrasstheatre.org; Facebook: Tallgrass Theatre Company
Urbandale Community Theatre – www.urbandaletheatre.com; Facebook: Urbandale Community Theatre

Greater Des Moines/Central Iowa Independent Book Stores:
The Culture Buzz encourages you to visit your local independent book store regularly. Check these sites, as their calendars are always filled with enticing activities and news.
1. Beaverdale Books, Des Moines. http://www.beaverdalebooks.com/
2. Storyhouse Bookpub, Des Moines Historic East Village. https://storyhousebookpub.com/
3. Reading in Public Bookstore + Café, Historic Valley Junction. https://readinginpublic.com/
4. Indie Authors Book Expo, Valley West Mall. https://iabe515.wordpress.com/
5. Pageturners Bookstore, Indianola. http://www.pageturnersbookstore.com/
6. Dog-eared Books, Ames. https://dogearedbooksames.com/
7. Read a Book Nook, Marshalltown. https://read-a-book-nook.business.site/
8. Book Vault, Oskaloosa. https://bookvault.indielite.org/
9. Pella Books, Pella. https://pellabooks.com/
10. Prairie Lights Books & Cafe, Iowa City. https://www.prairielights.com/

Cultural Exploration Resources:
The Culture Buzz will begin including carefully vetted but comprehensive listings where you can do some advance online exploration before scheduling destinations in the region. These are two great websites to know about:
1. The Culture Buzz – John Busbee and associates encourage cultural adventurers through the comprehensive overview of what The Culture Buzz delivers. An archive library of favorite interviews is on the website, and all recent interviews can be found at The Culture Buzz Podcast Library – https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz
Website – http://www.TheCultureBuzz.com/
2. Gentle Guide to Theater – Timothy Rose renews his insights and information about the Central Iowa theatre scene with his new website. This site is anchored by the most navigable, informative calendar of upcoming things theatrical in this region. www.gentleguidetheatre.com
3. Center Stage – This Cityview monthly column covers feature stories about Central Iowa’s theatre scene. Distributed throughout the region and available online. Current column: https://www.dmcityview.com/center-stage
4. Cityview – Central Iowa’s monthly printed and continually updated online resource to all things happening in your community, from arts & culture, to music, to civic and political discourse, to fascinating columnists and stories. Cityview is the reliable source for keeping you informed and engaged in the Greater Des Moines community and beyond. https://www.dmcityview.com/
5. Des Moines Arts Festival (https://www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/) and Bravo Greater Des Moines (https://bravogreaterdesmoines.org/) – have joined forces to provide resources, support and networking for individual artists (DMAF) and cultural organizations (Bravo). For artists and organizations seeking to gain the training, information and resources for success, check out www.artswork.art, https://iowaartistdirectory.org/home/, https://www.artswork.art/cbc
6. Axios – Des Moines – this free, weekday newsletter is a quick-read, reliable Greater Des Moines news resource by two veteran news journalists, Jason Clayworth and Linh Ta. https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines
7. Art Week Des Moines – this annual, community/neighborhood celebration of the arts happens in several Greater Des Moines communities during the week leading up to the Des Moines Arts Festival. Planning, engagement and more happen throughout the year, and a diversity of input is welcomed and embraced by this initiative. https://artweekdesmoines.com/
8. dsm Magazine – Central Iowa’s gateway to arts, culture and more in a stunning, visual format. https://dsmmagazine.com/ dsm’s CultureCast podcast features interviews with cultural leaders, artists and musicians.
9. ia Magazine – Built upon the success of its Central Iowa counterpart, this annual gem brings enticing cultural news from across the state. https://iapublication.com/
10. Contact Buzz – This column covers crossroads between creativity and culture, and is offered in the new Des Moines edition of Little Village magazine. https://littlevillagemag.com/desmoines/
11. Little Village magazine. This Des Moines edition of the iconic Iowa City monthly brings a progressive voice to Central Iowa readers. https://littlevillagemag.com/desmoines/
12. 900Views Podcast. An exploration of arts and community with Host Pat Boddy. Based out of Mainframe Studios in downtown Des Moines, 900Views provides a platform for glimpsing the creative work and lives of the Midwest’s cultural producers and influencers. https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/900views-pat-boddy-RCELj1xc7Wh/
13. Greater Des Moines Community Jazz Center is this region’s source for a decades-established advocacy group for jazz, and established jazz professionals guiding and nurturing next generations of jazz musicians and fans. http://dmcommunityjazzcenter.org/
14. Central Iowa Blues Society is the area’s connecting point for performance, presentations and education in the world of blues. www.cibs.org
15. Bryan Farland, for many years, single handedly puts together the most comprehensive list of live and streaming music in Iowa. Bryan reaches out two ways, https://www.facebook.com/TheListDSM and farlanbr@dsmlivemusic.com

Resources to help, support and guide during any challenges you or someone you care about may be experiencing:
COVID Iowa Recovery: 800-775-9276 https://covidrecoveryiowa.org/
National Alliance on Mental Illness: 988 or info@nami.org
United Way 211: Dial 211, text ZIP code to 898211 or visit 211iowa.org
CICIL: #CICILServes COVID-19 Hotline: (866) 44-CICIL
Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860
LGBT National Youth Talkline: (800) 246-7743
LGBT National Talkline: (888) 843-4564
Des Moines Pastoral Counseling Center: dmpcc.org
Broadlawns 24/7 Crisis Team: (515) 282-5752
Your Life Iowa Help Line: (855) 581-8111
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to be connected to crisis counseling
Online Mental Health Crisis Chat: iowacrisischat.org
MercyOne Des Moines Behavioral Health Clinic: 515-643-9030.
Prelude Behavioral Services (substance treatment): 515-262-0349
Instead of 911 – Des Moines area
*Domestic Violence: 515.286.3600
Polk County Crisis & Advocacy
*Poison Control: 800.222.1222
*Mental Health Crisis: 515.282.5752
Broadlawns Crisis Team
*LGBTQ+ Abuse: 866.488.7386
*Sexual Assault: 515.243.7386
Children & Families of Iowa
*Veteran Crisis: 800.273.8255 press1
Veterans & Their Families Health Crisis Line
*Child Abuse/Neglect: 800.422.4453
National US Child Abuse Hotline
Animal Abuse/Neglect: 515.284.6905
Des Moines Animal Control
*open 24/7

As always, I appreciate news and information from you out there in the cultural trenches and am ready and willing to pursue a story or interview to share with my audiences.

Creatively yours, John Busbee
C: 515-707-1532