Monday, October 27, 2025

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The Culture Buzz

Greetings, Cultural Adventurers:

By John Busbee

2/18/2025

 

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), bringing you music, literature & cultural content. – John Busbee for The Culture Buzz

The Culture Buzz Podcast Library – https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz
2014 Iowa Governor’s Award for Partnership & Collaboration in the Arts
2015 Iowa History Award for Iowa History Journal 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 –

“I like to think of my behavior in the sixties as a learning experience. Then again, I like to think of anything stupid I’ve done as a learning experience. It makes me feel less stupid.”— P. J. O’Rourke (1947-2022) an American author, journalist, and political satirist who wrote twenty-two books on subjects as diverse as politics, cars, etiquette, and economics. Parliament of Whores and Give War a Chance both reached No. 1 on The New York Times bestseller list.

Newsletter content:

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

CNA - Alcohol/Cancer (October 2025)CNA - Stop HIV (October 2025)

I. Iowa Flash Buzz –

Writing Workshop – Brooke Van Sickle
Picture Book Perfection: How to Write a Book that Sells to Publishers (and Readers)

Tue Feb 18, 6 – 8 pm at Beaverdale Book
Join us for a free writing workshop hosted by Brooke Van Sickle about how to write and publish a children’s book based on her own award-winning writing journey.

  • 6:00 – 6:30 Meet and Greet
  • 6:30 – Workshop
  • 7:30 – 8:00 Q&A

The workshop will be based on her new book, Picture Book Perfection, an easy-to-consume resource for crafting stories for children ages 2 to 8. Some of the techniques covered include how to:

  • Get started with your idea
  • Know if you have a “good” story idea
  • Craft characters kids can relate to
  • Spin your narrative into a complete plot
  • Successfully finish your manuscript and prepare it for publication

Whether you’re brand-new to children’s book writing, or have tried unsuccessfully to see your book in print before, this will show you how to craft a story that will appeal to young readers, parents, agents, and editors.

https://beaverdalebooks.com/event/brooke-van-sickle-workshop/

https://www.brookevansickle.com/

Open Mic Poetry Night – Kelsey Bigelow | Emcee

@ Beaverdale Books, February 21 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Beaverdale Books 2629 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines, IA, United States

Do you love to write poetry?  Or read poetry?  If so, grab a friend and head to Beaverdale Books for a free, fun, and informal evening of open mic poetry, emceed by Iowa poet Kelsey Bigelow.  

https://beaverdalebooks.com/event/open-mic-poetry-night-february-2025/

Stories take center stage at the DMPL Storytelling Festival

Hear about legends, folk tales, myths, and more from a group of accomplished storytellers

Experience the oral tradition of storytelling during the 2025 DMPL Storytelling Festival at Franklin Avenue Library, 5000 Franklin Ave., on Sat Feb 22. Nationally acclaimed storytellers will be at the library all day to share personal stories and traditional tales. There will also be special activities in the children’s area, including a craft and scavenger hunt (10:30 AM-4:30 PM), and face-painting (from 11:30 AM-1:30 PM). The event is free and open to the public.

Featured storyteller events:

  • 10:30-11:15 AM: Kenyan Traditions with Josie Shaw (kids and families). Get ready to sing and dance during this interactive program as Josie Shaw, a CultureALL ambassador, shares traditional songs and stories from the Luhya culture of Western Kenya. This session is for youngsters and the young at heart.
  • 12:30-1:30 PM: Feathered Pigs, Feisty Princesses, and Imported Cats with Darrin Crow (all ages). When professional storyteller Darrin Crow’s family came to Iowa in the 1840s, they brought more than dishes, pots, and pans, and clothes. They brought stories. He’ll share some of his favorite ones – tales that are silly, tall, full of joy.
  • 2-3 PM: Humorous and Heartwarming Tales with Darrin Crow and Jeff Doyle (teens and adults). Get out of the cold and warm up with storytellers Darrin and Jeff as they share humorous and heartwarming stories. Spoiler alert: These are NOT the Disney versions.
  • 3:30-4:30 PM: Pole Barn Dreams with Jeff Doyle (adults). Jeff Doyle is a champion liar and, in this showcase, he shows us why. Expect the unexpected as Jeff explores his dream of owning a pole barn and other impossibilities.  

More information can be found at dmpl.org/storytellingfestival.

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

11:00 AM – Iowa Bird Rehabilitation is an exceptional organization dedicated to helping abandoned injured, and other birds in crisis return to health. Their Gala is March 8, and offers champions for their cause to support their efforts. Listen as Executive Director Jenni Boonjakuakul and Board Chair Jen Heins share insights into the Gala and IBR. https://www.iowabirdrehab.org/wings-of-iowa-gala-2025.html

11:15 AM – In The Rose Bargain, Sasha Peyton Smith delivers another exciting and immersive adventure in the world of young adult fantasy. Listen as Sasha shares how this irresistible story came into being. “Both lush and dangerous, like flower petals tipped with poison. With twists, secrets, and stolen kisses, I was riveted through every page.” – #1 New York Times bestselling author Ava Reid https://www.sashapsmith.com/

11:30 AM – Very Bad at Math is a surprising and appealing graphic novel for young readers, bringing a captivating tale of Verity Nelson. Listen as author Hope Larson shares revealing glimpses into this wonderful book, an excellent shared reading experience for an adult and a young person. “You’ll root for charming Very and her friends in this fun, relatable, masterfully written and illustrated tale of friendship and perseverance.” — Terri Libenson, author of the New York Times bestselling Emmie & Friends series@despairlarson

11:46 AM – CAP Theatre (Class Act Productions) is presenting Beauty and the Beast Jr through Mar 2. Director Mark Mangum is joined by cast members Mia Boettcher (as Belle), Ryle Hennesy (as Beast), and Jude Mangum (as Gaston) in a lively conversation about the special aspects of CAP’s family friendly and youth-drive shows. https://www.captheatre.org/disneys-beauty-and-the-beast-jr/

12:00 PM – Opening this Fri Feb 21. Des Moines Young Artists’ Theatre (DMYAT) presents Mary Poppins Jr Feb 21-Mar 2 in the Stoner Studio Theater at the Civic Center. Listen as Director Julie Rodish-Reed is joined by cast members Reece Taggart (as Jane Banks) and Henry Davison-Rippey (as Michael Banks) for an insightful chat about this show. https://www.dmyat.org/

12:15 PM – In concert this Sun Feb 23 at 2 PM. The Des Moines Community Orchestra prepares for its Winter Concert: Past Favorites Feb 23 at Sheslow Auditorium. Listen as Conductor Carl Johnson shares insights and details to this free, family-friendly 2 PM concert. (fun conversation with key members at 1 PM) https://www.desmoinescommunityorchestra.org/

12:28 PM – Change of Heart is a captivating medical thriller written by Cristina LePort MD. She shares insights into how her muse encouraged her to pick up a pen and capture the imaginative stories that emanated from her real-life role as a physician practicing in internal medicine and cardiology. “CHANGE OF HEART is a dark and twisted medical thriller that moves at breakneck speed. Reading it will keep you up well past midnight but, if you’re like me, you’ll love it.” ― DP LYLE, AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR OF THE JAKE LONGLY AND CAIN/HARPER THRILLER SERIES AND CO-CREATOR OF THE OUTLIERS WRITING UNIVERSITY https://cristinaleport.com/

12:42 PM – Francesco Paola may have his roots in the tech world, but his muse has captured an immersive noir thriller with his debut novel, Left at Rancho. Listen as Francesco shares insights into the complex world of cannabis, and ensnares his readers with his gift for storytelling. “Paola takes us on a fast-paced romp through the smoky battlegrounds of California’s busted green rush, where the cowboy hustlers of legal and illegal weed fight for market share. It’s like a Western set in the New West instead of the Old, and the first novel that confronts the blunt realities of 21st-century cannabis economics.” — Dr. Robin Goldstein, PhD, author of Can Legal Weed Win? https://www.francescopaola.com/

12:58 PM – Salvatore Marici reads “Relation” from his collection, Swish, Swirl & Sniff. https://icecubepress.com/product/swish-swirl-sniff/
 

III. Performance Arts

1.     Class Act Productions (CAP Theatre). Beauty and the Beast Jr. Thru Mar 2. https://www.captheatre.org/disneys-beauty-and-the-beast-jr/
2.     Des Moines Playhouse. Men on Boats. Thru Mar 2. https://www.dmplayhouse.com/events/men-on-boats/
3.     Des Moines Young Artists’ Theatre. Mary Poppins Jr. Feb 21-Mar 2. https://www.dmyat.org/
4.     Open Mic Poetry Night – Kelsey Bigelow | Emcee @ Beaverdale Books, Feb 21 @ 7-8:30 PM. Do you love to write poetry?  Or read poetry?  If so, grab a friend and head to Beaverdale Books for a free, fun, and informal evening of open mic poetry, emceed by Iowa poet Kelsey Bigelow. https://beaverdalebooks.com/event/open-mic-poetry-night-february-2025/
5.     Des Moines Symphony. Feb 21-22. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince in Concert.
https://www.desmoinesperformingarts.org/whats-on/events/2024-2025/harry-potter-6
6.     Tallgrass Theatre Company. Broadway Karaoke. Feb 22, 7 PM. https://tallgrasstheatre.org/
7.     Des Moines Performing Arts. Life of Pi. Feb 25-Mar 2. https://www.desmoinesperformingarts.org/whats-on/events/2024-2025/broadway/life-of-pi
8.     Des Moines Playhouse. Jesus Christ Superstar. Mar 7-23. https://www.dmplayhouse.com/events/jesus-christ-superstar/
9.     Des Moines Performing Arts – Temple Theater. Broadway’s Next Hit Musical. Mar 11-16. https://www.desmoinesperformingarts.org/whats-on/events/2024-2025/temple-comedy-series/broadways-next-hit-musical
10.  Iowa Stage Theatre Company. Grand Horizons. Mar 14-23. https://www.iowastage.org/grand-horizons
11.  Des Moines Performing Arts. Some Like It Hot. Mar 18-23. https://www.desmoinesperformingarts.org/whats-on/events/2024-2025/broadway/some-like-it-hot
12.  Carousel Theatre of Indianola. Casserole. Mar 20-30. https://carouseltheatre.org/

IV. Visual Arts – Exhibitions

  1. Des Moines Art Center. “Time Travelers,” Thru May 11. The group show explores the past and how we remember it with a mix of folklore, history and cultural souvenirs. It centers on two very different works in the permanent collection: Tuan Andrew Nguyen’s film “The Boat People” and Mika Rottenberg’s “Cheese,” a surrealist installation built from small TV monitors and old barn wood. https://www.wdmhs.org/historic-log-cabin/
  2. Olson-Larsen Galleries. “Winter Sampler,” through Feb 8, Olson-Larsen Galleries. A colorful mixed-media show features Debra Smith’s abstract textiles, Tim Schiffer’s watercolor still lifes, Molly Wood’s photos inspired by the Old Masters, and more. https://olsonlarsen.com/

V. Visual Arts – Galleries & Found Space Exhibition Sites

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.

VI. Auditions, Volunteer, and other Enhancement Opportunities – “The Arts is a Contact Sport” (A Culture Buzz creed)

  • Public Art RFQs welcomed for Franklin Avenue Library work. Entry Deadline: Mar 10, 2025. The proposed artwork should be inspired by themes explored in Rick Riordan’s fantasy novel series based on Greek mythology, Percy Jackson and the Olympians. The work should be welcoming, youth-friendly, inclusive, and inspiring to the library’s visitors, and particularly, its teen community. https://www.dmpl.org/franklin-avenue-library-public-art-project
  • Directors needed. Ankeny Community Theatre is gearing up for an exciting 2025-2026 season, and we’re looking for experienced directors to bring our productions to life. If you have a passion for theater and a knack for directing, we want to hear from you! Planning starts now – be a part of our creative journey. Interested? information@ankenycommunitytheatre.com
  • 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.  Theatre Midwest. https://www.theatremidwest.org/
13.  Urbandale Community Theatre. https://urbandaletheatre.com/get-involved/
 
VII. Planning ahead

The Des Moines Women’s Club – 117th Annual Art Exhibition
Sun Mar 2 through Sat Mar 8. Central Iowa artists will again display their original art for the viewing pleasure of the public. Admittance is free, and some items will be available for purchase. This year’s judge is Diane Kunzler.
 Save the Dates:

  • Artist Registration is required by February 28 at https://www.desmoineswomensclub.com/art-exhibition.
  • Opening Reception and Awards Presentation: 1-3 PM, Sunday, March 2. Open to the public.
  • Art Exhibition Gallery Hours: 10 AM-4 PM Monday through Saturday.
  • Gallery Night: 5-7 PM, Friday, March 7. Open to the public. Refreshments and light appetizers will be served.

 The Des Moines Women’s Club was established in 1885, and its primary objective was to develop and maintain a free public art gallery in Des Moines. The Hoyt Sherman Place Gallery is home to a large collection of nineteenth and twentieth century paintings and classical sculptures. Twelve paintings from the original DMWC collection can be seen in the Hoyt Sherman Place Art Gallery today.
 For inquiries: Des Moines Women’s Club / 515-348-6946 / dmwclub@hoytsherman.org
 
Des Moines Metro Opera 
Sample the night away as 40 of the finest restaurants, breweries, caterers, wineries and distilleries in Iowa come together to support the arts at the popular tasting event and fundraiser, the Wine, Food & Beer Showcase!
The Showcase is presented by TruBank and will be held on Friday, March 7 from 6-9pm at the downtown Des Moines Marriott.
All-inclusive tickets for the Grand Showcase are $55 if purchased in advance. Upgrade to the Reserve Experience to gain access to rare, fine wines from private collections paired with exquisite culinary creations from exclusive DSM restaurants.
For tickets and to see the full lineup of vendors → bit.ly/2025WFBS
 
Iowa Bird Rehabilitation’s 2nd Annual Gala
Wings of Iowa, A Celebration of Birds
On Mar 8, please join us for food, fun, and entertainment, as we celebrate and honor Iowa’s wild birds. “Wings of Iowa, a Celebration of Birds” is a way for us to bring awareness of the importance of wild birds in Iowa and the impact on our communities, our environment, and our future. Iowa is a major flight path for migratory birds, and also home to hundreds of species of birds who choose Iowa as a place to raise their young each summer. Many bird populations are experiencing major population declines due to habitat loss, climate change, light pollution, and decrease in food sources. It is our goal to support and help injured, orphaned, and sick birds, while serving our community. We hope to be a beacon of light, hope, and inspiration as we share our future goals, dreams, and stories during a magical night below the birds. Come and listen to our special guest and keynote speaker Anne Shimerdla, CEO and president of the Blank Park Zoo and enjoy music from Iowa’s own Chad Elliott, watch live art, bid on the silent auction, play games, connect, and be inspired. You are who the birds count on for their future, and with your attendance, you are giving birds a second chance and creating a future for our feathered friends. Iowa Bird Rehabilitation is at a point where for us to continue doing our work, we need to grow and expand, and we need you to do so. This is going to be a night to spread your wings and have some fun!
This year’s gala will be located at the elegant and sophisticated event venue The Monroe, 1805 90th St, West Des Moines, IA 50266. Time: 6-9pm. Individual seats or a table of 8 can be purchased at: Early Bird pricing until Feb 8, 2025. www.iowabirdrehab.org
 
NYC BASSIST MEETS GERMAN TRUMPETER AT CASPE TERRACE
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, 2025 AT 2 PM
Having performed together in Remedy, a group whose recent CD was among the top ten jazz releases for 2024 in Cadence Magazine, New York City bassist Joe Fonda and German trumpeter Thomas Heberer present music that strikes the balance between familiar ground and new territory at Caspe Terrace in Waukee on Sunday, March 23 at 2 PM.
About Joe Fonda: An accomplished international jazz artist, Fonda has performed with his own ensembles throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia. He has collaborated with a who’s who of jazz legends including Lou Donaldson, Randy Weston, Archie Shepp, Dave Douglas and Carla Bley. As a composer, Fonda has been the recipient of numerous grants and commissions From Meet the Composer New York and the New England Foundation on the Arts. In addition to bass, Fonda is also a master flute player. 
About Thomas Heberer: Born in Schleswig, Germany, Heberer has performed in 70 countries on six continents; was a lecturer at the  Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts and can be heard on approximately 150 recordings. Honors include being awarded the Down Beat Critics Poll as a member of The ICP Orchestra in 2002. In June 2024, Heberer performed at Carnegie Hall. 
About The Music: Despite their age difference of 14 years and nationalities, Fonda and Heberer share a common language — jazz. Their performance will not only include many jazz standards they revere but also some of their own compositions. In addition to the unique sound of a bass/trumpet duo, they will also perform some trumpet/flute duos as well as vocals! Although Heberer has been in Central Iowa with the ICP Orchestra, this will be Fonda’s first Iowa 
For more than 15 years, a local couple have shared the music they love with the community they love. The music is jazz, and the community is music lovers in central Iowa and beyond. With its perfect acoustics and intimate setting, Caspe Terrace in Waukee, Iowa, is the ideal setting to experience jazz.  All concerts are followed by a meet-the-artist dessert reception hosted by a select group of regular audience members. Located at 33158 Ute Avenue in Waukee, Iowa, Caspe Terrace is owned and operated by the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines.  
Tickets for Jazz at Caspe Terrace concerts are $30 each and can be ordered by calling 515-279-6452 or emailing abegold1951@gmail.com.  You can also purchase tickets at jazzatcaspe.weebly.com. Seating is limited to 130 so reservations are encouraged.

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

1.     Beaverdale Books – Brooke Van Sickle. Workshop: “Picture Book Perfection: How to Successfully Write a Picture Book That Sells to Publishers and Readers.” Tue Feb 18, 6-8 PM.
2.     Beaverdale Books – Sharon L. Clark. I’ll Call You Mine. Wed Feb 19, 6:30 PM.
3.     Beaverdale Books – Amy Wilson. Happy to Help: Adventures of a People-Pleaser – Essays. Thu Feb 20, 6:30 PM.
4.     Beaverdale Books – Kelsey Bigelow, Emcee. Open Mic Poetry Night. Fri Feb 21, 7-8:30 PM.
5.     Beaverdale Books – Angel Bour. Just a Kid. Mon Feb 26, 6:30 PM.
6.     Beaverdale Books at the West Des Moines Library – Allen Eskens. The Quiet Librarian. Thu Feb 27, 6:30 PM.
7.     Beaverdale Books at Franklin Events Center (4801 Franklin Avenue) – Special ticketed event. Kaleb Wyse. There’s Always Room at the Table. Mon Mar 3, 7-9 PM.
8.     Beaverdale Books – B J Soloy. Birth Center in Corporate Woods. Poet. Thu Mar 6, 6:30 PM.
9.     Beaverdale Books at the Franklin Events Center, 4801 Franklin Avenue – Curtis Sittenfeld. Special ticketed event. Show Don’t Tell. Mar 11, 6:30 PM.
10.  Beaverdale Books – Zaq Baker Unspectacular. Fri Mar 14, 6:30 PM.
11.  Des Moines Book Festival. Mar 22, includes Children’s Book Writing Panel with Brooke Van Sickle.
 
https://www.dmpl.org/dmpl-fall-author-series *Highlighted author names indicate interviews are in The Culture Buzz Archive Library.
Please visit: https://archive.org/details/@the_culture_buzz 
 
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/

Current bestsellers are:
1. Hooligans, Rebels, and Rabble-Rousers, Paula Kermin*
2. The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World, Robin Wall Kimmerer
3. Vessels of Love: Prayers and Poems for the Later Years of Life, Joyce Rupp*
4. James, Percival Everett
5. Small Things Like These, Claire Keegan
6. Love Is My Favorite Flavor, Wini Moranville*
7. God of the Woods, Liz Moore
8. Woodland Cemetery in Des Moines: A History, Mary Christopher* and Mike Rowley*
9. Dog Man: Big Jim Begins (Dog Man #13), Dav Pilkey
10. The Women, Kristin Hannah
*Iowa Author!
 
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. Our New World of Adult Bullies: How to Spot Them, How to Stop Them. Bill Eddy. This is Bill Eddy’s insightful and informative guide to meet the challenges that this growing social trend has created.
    “Our New World of Adult Bullies is timely! Anyone can be bullied. Bill Eddy explains not only the damaging toxicity and effects of bullying but the psychological understanding of how to stop it. Poignant examples, from history and everyday life, bring it home. This book empowers and offers solutions instead of reactions. Much needed in a time of great divide and polarization.”
    —Karyl Mcbride, Ph.D., author of Will the Drama Ever End? Untangling and Healing from the Harmful Effects of Parental Narcissism
    https://highconflictinstitute.com/
    https://www.unhookedmedia.com/stock/p/our-new-world-of-adult-bullies
  2. 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
  3. 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/
  4. 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.

  1. Ankeny Community Theatre – www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com; Facebook: Ankeny Community Theatre
  2. Ballet Des Moines – https://www.balletdesmoines.org/
  3. Carousel Theatre of Indianola – www.carouseltheatre.org; Facebook: Carousel Theatre Indianola
  4. Central Iowa Wind Ensemble – https://www.facebook.com/CentralIowaWindEnsemble/
  5. Civic Music Association – https://civicmusic.org/
  6. Class Act Productions – www.captheatre.org; Facebook: CAP Theatre
  7. Des Moines Community Playhouse/Kate Goldman Theatre – www.dmplayhouse.com; Facebook: DMPlayhouse
  8. 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
  9. Des Moines Symphony –  https://www.dmsymphony.org/
  10. Des Moines Young Artists’ Theatre – www.dmyat.org; Facebook: DM Young Artists Theatre
  11. Hoyt Sherman Place Theatre – featuring an eclectic mix of music, comedy, dance and more https://hoytsherman.org/calendar/events/#all
  12. Iowa Shakespeare Experience – www.iowashakespeare.org; Facebook: Iowa Shakespeare Experience
  13. Iowa Stage Theatre Company – www.iowastage.org; Facebook: Iowa Stage Theatre Company
  14. Pyramid Theatre Company – www.pyramidtheatre.org; Facebook: Pyramid Theatre Company
  15. Science Center of Iowa – https://www.sciowa.org/; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciowa
  16. Tallgrass Theatre Company – www.tallgrasstheatre.org; Facebook: Tallgrass Theatre Company
  17. 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 

 

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