Greater Des Moines CVB Press Releases

Event to Cover Growing Business Online, Media Panel

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 10 May 2012 15:39:13 CST

Individuals wanting to become more familiar growing business online, working with different demographics and creating a marketing plan are invited to attend the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) Marketing and Media Panel Discussion on Tuesday, June 5 from 8:30 a.m. – Noon at Foxboro Conference Center, 6165 NW 86th Street, Johnston.

Attendees will hear from experts in Business-to-Consumer marketing, new media, TV and print media.

8-8:30 a.m.           Registration
8:30-8:45 a.m. Welcome
8:45-9:30 a.m.   Keynote Presenter – Google “Grow Your Business Online”
9:30-9:40 a.m.       Break
9:30 -10:10 a.m.      Breakout Session
10:10-10:20 a.m.     Break
10:20-10:50 a.m.     Breakout Session
10:50-11 a.m.          Break
11 a.m.-Noon          News Media Panel
                               Featuring:
                                        Dan Winters, WHO-TV 13 Anchor & Reporter
                                        Chris Conetzkey, Des Moines Business Record Editor
                                        Randy Brubaker, Des Moines Register Managing Editor
                                        Tom Torpy, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Assignment Manager

The breakout sessions will provide the opportunity for smaller groups and interaction among attendees and speakers. The breakout sessions will feature The Meyvn Group, focusing on marketing to different demographics, and Trilix, focusing on how to create a marketing road map to navigate your business.

This event is open to the public and free to GDMCVB Marketing Partners. Tickets are $25 for the general public and $15 for students. To purchase a ticket online, go to https://secure.siteoncall.com/events/register_online.php?event=246.

Travel and Tourism Celebrated This Week

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 07 May 2012 15:08:45 CST

It is National Travel and Tourism Week, May 5-13, 2012 and the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) celebrates this week by reminding locals and visitors of the importance of travel.

In Central Iowa, visitors generated $1.63 billion in expenditures in Polk and Dallas Counties in 2010 according to the U.S. Travel Association’s study on the Economic Impact of Travel on Iowa Counties. This total is one quarter, 25%, of the State of Iowa’s total generated visitor expenditures of $6.5 billion.

“Travel and tourism supports 14.4 million jobs across the nation, including 16,000 jobs in Polk and Dallas Counties,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the GDMCVB.

In Fiscal Year 2010-2011, the GDMCVB booked more than 346,000 hotel rooms, creating an economic impact exceeding $90 million. The region saw 2.9 million visitors last year. Additional statistics and facts outline the impact of travel and tourism on Greater Des Moines in an attached document.

Nationally, travel and tourism is one of largest industries, generating $1.9 trillion in economic output, according to the U.S Travel Association. Travel and tourism directly generated $124 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments, meaning each U.S. household would pay $1,055 more in taxes without the tax revenue generated by the travel and tourism industry.

Promoting Summer Travel to Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:00:10 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) has now launched the annual Summer Ad Campaign, with several new additions this year.

For the first time, the GDMCVB expanded cooperative advertising reach to include Southern Minnesota/Northern Iowa and digital billboards. This has allowed additional Co-op Partners to become involved with the program.

The ads run throughout the summer in the following markets:

Omaha/Council Bluffs –April-May 2012
- TV/Radio/Digital Billboards – April 16-May 27
- Print insert – Sunday, May 20
Central Iowa – June-July 2012
- TV/Radio/Digital Billboards – June 18-July 22
Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa (including entire state line of counties across Northern Iowa and Southern MN – includes towns such as Mankato and Rochester) – June-July 2012
- TV/Radio/Digital Billboards – June 18-July 22
Eastern Iowa (Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Iowa City, Quad Cities and Dubuque) – July-August 2012
- Print inserts – May 20, 2012 in Waterloo and Cedar Falls; May 23, 2012 in Iowa City
- TV/Digital Billboards – July 16-August 12, 2012
- Radio – July 23-August 5, 2012

New Co-op Advertising Partners include: Iowa State Fair, Jordan Creek Town Center, Des Moines Arts Festival, 80/35 Music Festival and the National Balloon Classic.

Funding of the Summer Ad Campaign is primarily provided by the GDMCVB which reinvests hotel/motel tax revenues into marketing and advertising initiatives to market Greater Des Moines as a destination. The advertising campaign is able to extend into more markets and for longer periods of time due to the strong support of the following Co-op Ad Partners: Prairie Meadows, Homemakers, Iowa Speedway, Valley West Mall, Des Moines Park and Recreation, Science Center of Iowa, Blank Park Zoo and Adventureland Inn.

To preview the television ads that are airing in Omaha, Council Bluffs and Western Iowa, go to http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4D89F9A080D7F9E5&feature=view_all. Additional ads featuring other co-op partners will be posted on this link in June.

The ads were created by GDMCVB’s new advertising agency, Trilix, with production by Applied Art.

Repurposed Facility Saves Money and Generates New Business in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:49:13 CST

A project that could have cost $75 million if built new, cost just over $42 million because of green-thinking and planning. The state-of-the-art facility has 33,892 square feet of new meeting room space and a 28,638 square foot ballroom inside that is known as the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center. The entire Iowa Events Center now boasts 226,000 square feet of total space, including 150,000 square feet of exhibit space, 37 meeting rooms and a 17,500 seat arena.

The $42,250,000 renovation boasts unique upgrades including an infinite amount of lighting capabilities. LED lights color wash the ceiling clouds to create a space unique to the client’s needs. Eight large projectors, one for each operable wall down the Grand concourse, display images that are 16’ tall by 30’ wide with the technology to display both static marketing logos and dynamic videos interacting with each projector separately. Each of the new 21 meeting rooms have cold water plumbed into each room.

Ninety-nine percent of the waste from the project was recycled with 8,500 tons from the demo diverted from the landfill. Local artists are also featured throughout the building, with an original 10’ x 20’Ding Darling cartoon panel salvaged from the original chapel and reinstalled in the East Lobby.

The Iowa Events Center will welcome a number of major events to the renovated space, including the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Annual Convention (June 2012), American Society of Animal Science/American Dairy Science Association Midwest Meeting (March 2013-March 2016), National Association of County Engineers Annual Convention (April 2013) and the Mary Kay Career Conference (March 2014), thanks to the expanded facilities.

“This project has been pivotal in that it allows us to draw more state, regional and national conventions to the area,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. “We are better able to accommodate these large groups and showcase to them everything we love about the city, from local shops to new dining hotspots to our arts and culture community.

The project’s design was a collaboration between OPN Architects and tvsdesign. OPN Architects is a holistic architectural, interior design and landscape architecture firm with offices in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. tvsdesign is a nationally recognized firm of stimulating design for convention centers and has designed more convention centers and other places of public assembly than any other firm.

To view a short video on the facility, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEZnxHM1dI4&feature=youtu.be.

IOWA EVENTS CENTER SPECS
Total space: 226,000 sq. ft.
Total # of meeting rooms: 37
Largest exhibit space: 150,000 sq. ft.
Max classroom: 4,545
Max banquet: 6,270
Max theater: 17,000
Max reception: 10,000
Max 10x10 booths: 803
New meeting space: 33,892 sq. ft.
Ballroom: 28,730 sq. ft.

'Big Four Classic' Men's Basketball Doubleheader Set For December in Des Moines' Wells Fargo Arena

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:10:56 CST

DES MOINES -- The state of Iowa’s four NCAA Division I institutions will stage the “Big Four Classic,” a men’s college basketball doubleheader, at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines in December in each of the next four years, the institutions and the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau announced today.

The inaugural Big Four Classic will be staged on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012, with Iowa State playing Drake and Iowa facing UNI in back-to-back games in the state of Iowa’s premier special events center. Game times have not been finalized, but each contest will be televised live.

"We are proud to host these four outstanding men’s college basketball teams at Wells Fargo Arena. The Big Four Classic will bring friends of the institutions and fans of their teams from across the state to Des Moines for an exciting event the entire Iowa sports community will enjoy,” said Greg Edwards, president and chief executive officer of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau.

This year’s match-ups will be repeated in 2014. Iowa State will play UNI and Iowa will square off against Drake in 2013 and again in 2015. The four schools will alternate serving as event host. Iowa will serve as host to the inaugural event.

The announcement comes on the heels of a very successful 2011-12 season for all four schools. Each posted a winning record and advanced to postseason play last season.

The Cyclones earned an invitation to the NCAA Tournament, registered a 23-11 record and finished tied for third in the Big 12. Fred Hoiberg’s squad defeated Connecticut in its first round NCAA Tournament game before losing to eventual national champion Kentucky in the South Region.

UNI and Iowa both were extended at-large invitations to the National Invitation Tournament. UNI completed its season with an overall record of 20-14 and a 9-9 mark against Missouri Valley opponents. Ben Jacobson’s Panthers defeated St. Joseph’s and lost to Drexel in their NIT games.

Iowa completed its season with an overall record of 18-17 that included an 8-10 record against Big Ten opponents. Fran McCaffery’s Hawkeyes defeated Dayton and lost to Oregon in their NIT games.

Drake completed its 2011-12 season with an 18-16 overall record and accepted an invitation to the CIT, where the Bulldogs defeated North Dakota before losing to Rice. Mark Phelps’ Bulldogs were 9-9 against Missouri Valley opponents in 2012.

Each institution will have an equal number of game tickets to distribute, ranging in price from $25 to $70 each. Tickets will be good for admission to both games of the doubleheader and will be made available first to each institution’s season ticket customers and then to other fans of their men’s basketball program. Tickets not sold by the institutions will be placed on sale for the general public through the Wells Fargo Arena box office in early October.

Des Moines set to host 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:17:14 CST

USA Track & Field on Wednesday announced its intent to host the 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Des Moines, Iowa, on the campus of Drake University.

The championships will be hosted by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Des Moines Area Sports Commission and Drake University.

The USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships were previously held in Des Moines in 2010, where the five-day event produced two American records in women’s competition - Chaunte Lowe in the high jump and Kara Patterson in the javelin.

Des Moines is best known for hosting the annual Drake Relays for more than 100 years where a sell-out crowd and more than 8,000 participants gather for one of the greatest traditions in track and field. The city has recently hosted the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 2008 and 2011 and is set to host the 2012 event. In 2004, the 14,467 seat facility at Drake underwent a $15 million renovation, including the creation of the Track Central USA Fan Zone.

"We are proud to once again welcome USATF to Track Central USA in Des Moines,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. “We are thankful to have a strong partnership with Drake University and the Athletic Department. It is their dedication that helps ensure the athletes, coaches and fans have the experience of a lifetime at the great Drake Stadium.

“The community support for track and field in our city is phenomenal. We couldn't host events like this without city support, local fan involvement and corporate backing.”

“We are happy to announce our return to Des Moines,” said Mike McNees, Interim CEO of USATF. “We look forward to capitalizing on the community’s energy for track and field evident in the ever popular Drake Relays, and we are excited to grow the championships in Des Moines.”

More information on the championships will continue to be added to www.usatf.org. Information is also available at www.SeeDesMoines.com and www.TrackCentralUSA.com.

Greater Des Moines Wins Big with NCAA Division I Womens Basketball Regional Championship

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:02:43 CST

The NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Regional Championship has wrapped up in Des Moines, leaving behind an economic impact of $2 million on Greater Des Moines.

“The community-wide support made this event a big win for our region,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We put out the call to residents, corporations and visitors to support this sport in our community and the response has been overwhelming.”

Hotel staff wore “Welcome to Des Moines” t-shirts and “Welcome NCAA” buttons. Businesses around the metro hung signs in their storefronts and lobbies welcoming NCAA student-athletes, coaches and fans.

“We’ve heard great feedback from visitors and locals. Hosting NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Regional Championship in Greater Des Moines was a slam dunk,” said Edwards.

The Des Moines Regional Championship led the other regions in ticket sales on Saturday, with a total of 7,941 tickets sold. Last night, 9,068 tickets were sold. Final ticket numbers from other regions will be available later this week.

NAIA Wrestling Impacts Greater Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 09:19:16 CST

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) 2012 Wrestling National Championship is in Des Moines for the first time in the event’s 55-year history. The event brings 500 wrestlers, coaches and staff to the Iowa State Fairgrounds Jacobson Exhibition Center March 1-3. An estimated 10,000 attendees are expected over the course of the event, resulting in a near $1 million economic impact on Greater Des Moines.

Grand View University is the local host of this event, along with the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and Des Moines Area Sports Commission.

NAIA announced the qualifiers for the 2012 NAIA Wrestling National Championships last week. The first of six sessions is set to get underway at 11 a.m. on March 1. Brackets will be posted February 29 by 9 p.m.

Among the 320 qualifiers are 24 returning All-Americans, including two defending national champions and two runner-up finishers. Searching for a second-consecutive title will be Great Fall’s (Mont.) Anthony Varnell at 141 pounds and Evan Hinebauch of Montana State-Northern at 184 pounds. Hinebauch, along with Campbellsville’s Tommy Pretty, enter the championships as the only three-time All-Americans. Pretty claimed the 133 pound individual title in 2010, before moving up to the 141 pound class in 2011.

Each weight class will have at least one returning All-American in action in Des Moines, with both 141 and 165 pounds featuring four All-Americans.

Grand View enters the tournament as the team favorite. The Vikings qualified 12 individuals and have held the top spot in the NAIA Wrestling Coaches’ Top 20 Poll for four consecutive weeks.

NeuLion will stream live all 10 individual weight class championship bouts on March 3 and will be available to view starting at approximately 6:45 p.m. A fee of $9.95 is set to view the finals. For more information visit www.naia.org.

First-ever Scholarships to be Awarded at Central Iowa Sports Awards This Sunday

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:40:01 CST

DES MOINES, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission are pleased to announce the partnership of West Bank and the Central Iowa Sports Awards (CISA). This year’s top high school male and female athletes will be recipients of the first-ever West Bank Central Iowa Sports High School Male & Female Athlete of the Year scholarships.

“West Bank has embraced our vision for honoring these hardworking athletes and enhancing the awards banquet with this generous scholarship,” says GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. “It’s a great opportunity to give back to both the local community and high school sports athletes.

The West Bank Central Iowa Sports High School Male & Female Athlete of the Year Scholarship is to be used to pay expenses billed by the college or university of the recipient’s choice. The recipient must have a competed in a varsity level sport during the 2011 calendar year. Activities up for recognition must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards banquet honors those who pursue excellence with honor. It will be held this Sunday, February 26 at Forte Banquet and Conference Center, 615 3rd Street, Des Moines.

To order tickets or for more information, visit www.SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau Announces Staff Changes

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:50:55 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is pleased to announce the following new staff members:

Lisa Kral has been hired as Marketing Partner Manager. She will work with existing GDMCVB Marketing Partners, Corporate Partners and she will work to gain new Partners. Lisa is a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa. She has assisted with Hy-Vee Triathlon sponsorships, planning and development of the Hy-Vee Tri Kids’ Clinic.

_____________________________________

Jennifer Morris has been hired as a Sales Manager. Jennifer is a graduate of the University of Iowa and has previously worked for a property management company in Central Illinois, organizing housing for area sporting teams such as the Peoria Rivermen and Peoria Chiefs and area corporations such as Caterpillar.

_____________________________________

Kristine Reeves has been hired as Marketing Development Manager. She will reach out to potential GDMCVB investors for sponsorships, co-ops and promotional items for the GDMCVB and secure private sector dollars to reinvest in marketing Greater Des Moines as a destination. Kristine is a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa. Her experience involves sponsorship sales, market research and slogan/campaign development.

_____________________________________

Aaron Strom has been hired in Shipping/Receiving. Aaron is currently attending Grand View University.

_____________________________________

Shannon Winters has been hired as Finance Manager. Her main duties include accounts payable, payroll, 401k plan, budgets and assisting with audits. Shannon graduated from Waldorf College with a B.A. in Business Finance. Previously, she worked at MetLife and Meredith Corporation.

Des Moines Wins National Sports Award from Event Planners

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:33:03 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, has been awarded the 2012 SportsEvents Media Group Readers’ Choice Award.

The award recognizes the DMASC for exemplary creativity and professionalism toward the groups Greater Des Moines has hosted throughout 2011. Sports event professionals nominated and voted for DMASC to win this award.

“We are thrilled to receive this honor and share it with all of the communities we represent and partners we work alongside,” said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the GDMCVB, which is the parent organization to the DMASC. “Our team works diligently to ensure our visitors have a pleasant experience and successful event each time they’re in Greater Des Moines. We couldn’t continually receive accolades such as this, without strong community support.”

The sports division of the GDMCVB is made up of Mark Kostek, Vice President of Sports Development; Scott Koch, Senior Sports Manager; and Katie Jessen, Senior Sports Event Manager.

SportsEvents will list all 2012 Readers’ Choice Award Winners in the January 2012 edition of the publication. A complete list of award winners is available online now at http://www.sportseventsmagazine.com/2012-readers-choice-awards/.

About SportsEvents Media Group
SportsEvents Media Group, publisher of SportsEvents magazine, is the industry leader in providing products and services designed to connect sports events organizers with sports commissions, CVBs, hotels, insurance companies and other sports events industry suppliers.

Official Caucus Viewing Party

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:51:44 CST

For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 491-9350 (cell)
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

DES MOINES, IOWA – Americana Restaurant and Lounge, Greater Des Moines Partnership and Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau invite locals and visitors to Americana for the Official Caucus Watch Party in Greater Des Moines. Americana, located at 1312 Locust Street, is in Downtown Des Moines and provides a multi-level dining experience and street side lounge with a panoramic view of the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Greater Des Moines’ Official Caucus Watch Party will begin Tuesday, January 3 at 6 p.m. Live results and media coverage will appear on televisions throughout the lounge. The Watch Party will run until close, 11 p.m. Caucus Night.

Reservations are not required, but recommended, at (515) 283-1312 or www.americanadsm.com.

Americana is an urban restaurant and lounge that celebrates the swagger of the cocktail culture. The restaurant features a variety of classic cocktails, a large wine list and serves a Modern American/Continental menu specializing in freshly prepared small plates, signature entrees, gourmet burgers, contemporary classics and much more.

For more information on the Iowa Caucus happenings in Greater Des Moines visit CaucusDM.com.

Greater Des Moines Wins National Gold Service Award

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:09:01 CST

Meeting planners from across the country have awarded the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) the prestigious Meetings and Conventions 2011 Gold Service Award. This award honors Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) worldwide that have excelled in professionalism and dedication in their service to meeting professionals. This is the first time the GDMCVB has won this award.

“This is a true testament to the dedication, loyalty and passion of our entire staff at the GDMCVB and all of our community and corporate partners,” said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the GDMCVB. “Winning an award like this is humbling. It is also a strong reminder of how the Greater Des Moines community as a whole takes great care of our visitors.”

CVBs were judged on:

Professionalism of staff
Support on hotels and site inspections
Assistance with ground transportation planning
Guidance on local attractions
Liaison with local vendors and services

The November 2011 edition of Meetings and Conventions names the GDMCVB as a Gold Service Winner. Winners will also be posted online at mcmag.com. A hard copy of the magazine may be obtained by contacting Tiffany Tauscheck at tiffany@desmoinescvb.com.

Winners are selected by Meetings and Conventions readers, primarily meeting planners. This year 91 domestic and 16 international CVBs received service awards.

Meetings and Conventions is a magazine with 53,000 subscribers worldwide.

Caucus Night Media Access Applications Now Being Accepted

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 09:17:16 CST

DES MOINES, IOWA – Media can now apply for access to the Google Media Filing Center and AARP Spin Room for Caucus night. Live results will be reported on site within the Google Media Filing Center and AARP Spin Room at the Iowa Events Center’s Polk County Convention Complex in Des Moines, Iowa. The Republican Party plans to be onsite, alongside campaign staffers. To apply for access, visit www.CaucusDM.com and click on “Apply for Media Credentials.” Media must reserve, or have already reserved, Google Media Filing Center space in order to obtain a credential.

Media can reserve space at the same website, or by going directly to
http://iowaeventscenter-web.ungerboeck.com/sop/sop_p1_steps_booth.aspx?eventid=10863&cc=CAUCUSORDER&oc=10.

The Google Media Filing Center and AARP Spin Room are supported by Google, AARP, The Iowa Events Center, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau and Greater Des Moines Partnership. The Google Media Filing Center will be open December 26, 2011 - January 4, 2012 and the AARP Spin Room will be open the night of January 3, 2012.

Locals Honored for Serving the Community

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:35:02 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) and Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) honored local individuals and businesses that have helped make the last fiscal year a success tonight at the GDMCVB Annual Celebration. Approximately 230 people attended the GDMCVB Annual Celebration at the Hilton Garden Inn in Des Moines/Urbandale.

Three new award categories were added this year: Visitor Choice Awards for Restaurant of the Year, Hotel of the Year and Attraction of the Year. The GDMCVB invited visitors to nominate their favorite attraction, hotel and restaurant for the Visitor Choice Award. Winners were selected based on the quantity of nominations via e-survey.

“Greater Des Moines continues to attract 2.9 million visitors each year thanks in part to the support and assistance from these organizations and community champions,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “As a community, we truly are stronger and better together.”

Fiscal Year Award Recipients
Civic Friend of Hospitality: Rick Clark, City of Des Moines
Corporate Friend of Hospitality: Business Publications Corporation
Friend of Hospitality: Paul Rottenberg, Orchestrate Management
Hometown Hero: Andy Goodman, Iowa Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association
Media Friend of Hospitality: OnMedia and Mediacom
Partner of the Year: Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino
Special Recognition: Mayor Tim Burget, City of Altoona
Spirit of the Community: Carl Voss, B-cycle
Sport Friend of Hospitality: Principal Charity Classic
Volunteer of the Year: Blank Park Zoo Foundation Board

Visitor Choice Awards
Attraction of the Year: Iowa State Fair
Hotel of the Year: Chase Suite Hotel
Restaurant of the Year: Centro

These organizations have been recognized for their commitment to the community and the GDMCVB through various acts of generosity, volunteerism, visitor services, donations and partnerships with the GDMCVB staff, clients and partners.

The GDMCVB Annual Celebration was sponsored by Iowa Beverage Systems and Copy Systems. Flowers at the event were donated by Gortz Haus in Grimes.

Pictures are available upon request.

Greater Des Moines Sees Increase in Expenditures

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:50:32 CST

The number of visitors to Greater Des Moines remained strong in 2010, while the dollars spent by those visitors increased to $1.6 billion, one quarter of the entire state’s expenditures.

Throughout the year, Greater Des Moines hosted more than 2.9 million visitors who spent nearly $1.6 billion between Polk and Dallas counties, according to the Economic Impact of Travel Study released by the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Iowa Tourism Office.

“We anticipated the number of visitors to remain strong, based off of the number of event bookings we had throughout 2010,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President/CEO Greg Edwards. “The increase in expenditures is good news for the Metro’s hospitality professionals – made up of 16,000 hospitality jobs.”

Polk County travel expenditures were at $1.5 billion in 2010, while Dallas County brought in $141 million, bringing the total expenditures for Greater Des Moines to $1.6 billion, an 8.5 percent increase over 2009. Total expenditures in the state of Iowa were $6.6 billion.

Greater Des Moines travel expenditures were driven, in part, by conventions and sports events secured by the GDMCVB and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the umbrella of the GDMCVB. In 2010, these events included the USATF Outdoor Track & Field Championships, World Pork Expo and the Gold Wing Road Riders Association Wing Ding 32.

Event Held in Des Moines Wins National Sports Award

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 09:15:16 CST

The 2011 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships held in Des Moines June 8-11, 2011 has been named the Best Collegiate Multi-Sport/Multi-Discipline Event in the country by SportsTravel Magazine.

Award winners were nominated and voted upon by readers of SportsTravel, the sports world’s event magazine. To be eligible, events had to occur between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011 and must have met the following requirements:

Superior organization of and attendance at the event
Superior experience for competitors/spectators
Host city/venue served to enhance the event

“This is a tremendous honor for everyone involved with this great event,” said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), which is the parent organization to the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC). “Our team worked closely with the NCAA and Sandy Hatfield Clubb and her team at Drake University to make the Track and Field Championships successful for the local community and memorable for the athletes, coaches and fans. It’s invigorating to have others notice our teams’ exemplary work.”

“Recognition by SportsTravel Magazine is a testimony to the collaborative efforts of many people and it confirms that Des Moines is indeed Track Central USA,” said Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Drake University Athletic Director. “The NCAA Track and Field Championships provides an excellent platform to show off Drake Stadium and the passionate engagement of the Des Moines Metro community on a national scale.”

SportsTravel Magazine announced the winners of all 2011 SportsTravel Awards at the TEAMS 2011 Conference and October on October 6 in Las Vegas. For a complete list of all winners, visit http://sportstravelmagazine.com/teams11/Winners_of_the_2011_SportsTravel_Awards.pdf.

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau Leader Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:27:00 CST

Vicki Comegys, Greater Des Moines Conventions and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) Vice President of Sales and Services, has been given the 2011 Bruce Riley McDaniel Award for Individual Professionalism and Lifetime Achievement. Comegys received this award today at the Upper Midwest Convention and Visitors Bureaus (UMCVB) Fall Conference held in Brookfield, WI.

Comegys has received this award, in part, for helping the GDMCVB secure more than 22,000 conventions and sporting events through her more than 20 years of service to the GDMCVB. Just in the last year, the GDMCVB booked 1,254 conventions/events for a total of nearly 350,000 room nights, contributing more than $90 million in economic impact from sales initiatives alone.

She is credited for helping develop the sports market segment early on in her career at the GDMCVB. Recently the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the GDMCVB umbrella, has landed large-scale events such as the AAU Junior Olympic Games, the USA Track and Field Championships, NCAA Track and Field Division I Championships and the 2013 NCAA Wrestling Championships.

Comegys is currently a member of American and Iowa Society of Association Executives and the Professional Conference Management Association Executive Board, Midwest Chapter. She has served as Past President of the Iowa Meetings Association and Past President of the Downtown Council. She is a Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) sales committee member and leadership instructor for Sales Academy Courses.

The “McDaniel Award” is given to a tourism industry professional that has achieved and exemplified greatness. The award was established is in honor and memory of Bruce McDaniel, one of the founders of UMCVB. McDaniel was the President of the Quad Cities CVB when he suggested creating UMCVB. He was a strong supporter of education and also realized that the Midwest CVBs needed an opportunity to continually learn about the tourism industry. He and Bill Geist, an industry consultant, proposed the idea to create UMCVB in 1996. The first conference was held in Dubuque, IA in September 1997. McDaniel passed away unexpectedly just four months later.

New Edition of See Des Moines Fall/Winter Magazine to be Unveiled Tomorrow

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:55:43 CST

Media are invited to the first See Des Moines Release Party this Thursday, September 8, from 5-6:30 p.m. at The Depot at Fourth, 100 4th Street, Des Moines. A brief program will be held at 5:30 p.m.

The event is free. Food and drinks will be provided by Iowa Beverage Systems, Gateway Market and Café, Dos Rios, Midwestern Catering, Crème Cupcake and Summerset Winery.

See Des Moines: The Official Guide to Greater Des Moines features Arts/Entertainment, Dining and Nightlife, Attractions, Shopping, Sports and Hotel sections. A special section designed address the region’s political flavor is also included in this magazine edition.

This publication is produced by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) and Business Publications.

Restaurant Week Serves Des Moines Well

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:09:43 CST

Greater Des Moines’ fourth annual Restaurant Week brought in an estimated $277,000 this year – an increase of $152,000 over last year’s Restaurant Week economic impact.

Of the 36 participating restaurants, submitted dinner receipts averaged $50 per person, including beverages purchased with each $25 Restaurant Week meal. Many receipts show diners purchased fine wine to complement their meal.

The increase in economic impact over previous years was, in part, thanks to two new participating restaurants – Flemings and 801 Chophouse. Flemings served more than 1,000 Restaurant Week dinners; 801 Chophouse served more than 1,400 dinners within one week.

A conservative estimate of 19,000 diners participated in the 2011 Restaurant Week.

This year’s Restaurant Week winners are Denise and Keith Erhard of West Des Moines. They’ll receive a trip for two to Sonoma County, including two roundtrip airline tickets, a three-night hotel stay, tasting passes to local wineries and gift certificates for two Sonoma County restaurants.

Restaurant Week is organized by Des Moines Business Record, dsm Magazine and the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. Public comments and feedback on Restaurant Week may be sent to marketing@desmoinescvb.com.

Hy-Vee Triathlon Brings New Dollars into Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:12:52 CST

The 2011 Hy-Vee Triathlon is expected to have a $3 million economic impact on the area, according to the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB).

“We’re extremely fortunate to host an event of this stature in our community,” said Chris Coleman, GDMCVB Chairman of the Board. “Sporting events continue to be a big draw for visitors and groups. The Hy-Vee Triathlon 5150 US Championship gives us the opportunity to further market Des Moines nationally through athletes, and media, from all over the country.”

Of the 2,200 participants, 1,700 are visitors – some from other countries. The visiting athletes, coaches, families and fans are spending dollars at area hotels, restaurants, attractions and on transportation within Greater Des Moines for, on average, five nights.

The Hy-Vee Triathlon events run this weekend, September 2-4. For more information on the event, visit www.hy-veetriathlon.com.

See Des Moines Magazine Release Party

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 10:31:59 CST

The public is invited to attend the first See Des Moines Release Party on Thursday, September 8 from 5-6:30 p.m. at The Depot at Fourth, 100 4th Street, Des Moines. A brief program will be held at 5:30 p.m. to unveil the new issue and toast the Greater Des Moines businesses and events that are featured in the Fall/Winter 2011-12 Edition of See Des Moines.

The event is free. Food and drinks will be provided by Iowa Beverage Systems, Gateway Market and Café, Dos Rios, Midwestern Catering, Crème Cupcake and Summerset Winery.

See Des Moines: The Official Guide to Greater Des Moines features Arts/Entertainment, Dining and Nightlife, Attractions, Shopping, Sports and Hotel sections. A special section designed to address the region’s political flavor is also included in this magazine edition.

This publication is produced by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) and Business Publications.

New Overhead Skywalk Signage Installation Begins Today

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 09:53:07 CST

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) in collaboration with the City of Des Moines is updating 45 Downtown Des Moines skywalk signs with temporary signs.

“We recognized the need for the skywalk signage to be updated for visitors and locals trying to navigate the skywalk,” said Chris Coleman, GDMCVB Chairman of the Board. “A budget surplus due to an increase in visitors gave our Board the opportunity to invest in this project. While it is a temporary fix, getting us by until the City replaces the existing signage throughout the skywalk system, we felt it was the right thing to do in order to enhance the downtown visitor experience.”

“It’s not uncommon for visitors to stop into our office in Capital Square and ask for directions to Iowa Event Center’s Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall or the Civic Center, for example,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “We offer visitors skywalk maps to help them get from point A to point B, but at times it can be difficult for those unfamiliar with our downtown to get where they’re going. Some of the current skywalk signage is out-of-date and directs individuals to businesses that are no longer open.”

A local printing company will begin replacing the old signs this week. While visitors and locals may not notice a visible difference in the look of the new, temporary signs, the verbiage has been updated on many of the signs to better direct sky-walkers to key downtown businesses, such as hotels, meeting places, restaurants and attractions.

The following locations are examples of where new signs will be installed:

-Near the Convention Complex by 5th and Grand
-South of the Iowa Event Center on the skywalk that runs along 4th

The City of Des Moines is working on plans to implement a completely updated skywalk signage system by mid-2012.

Restaurant Week Expected to Boost Local Eatery Business

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 10:29:34 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Business Record and dsm Magazine invite residents and visitors to attend Des Moines’ fourth annual Restaurant Week this Friday, August 19 through Sunday, August 28.

An estimated $125,000 was spent in Greater Des Moines’ restaurants during Restaurant Week last year. Collected receipts showed the average amount spent was $241.19 and restaurants saw an estimated 30 percent increase in business during Restaurant Week compared to a regular week.

“Restaurant Week continues to fill area eateries and be a very popular and fun time to dine out,” said GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. “Last year we heard many success stories from patrons and restaurant owners. We are proud to again give Greater Des Moines a time to celebrate and experience the fabulous culinary arts. There’s no doubt Restaurant Week is a hit in Greater Des Moines.”

Diners can eat at 36 participating restaurants for just $25 for two lunches or one three-course dinner. Patrons are invited to visit the participating restaurants, save at least four receipts and enter to win a trip for two to California’s Sonoma County. Receipts must be mailed or dropped off to dsm Magazine, 100 4th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 by Noon on Monday, August 29. No purchase necessary. Visit www.dsmmagazine.com for the official rules.

Participating restaurants include: 801 Chophouse, ALBA Restaurant, Americana Restaurant and Lounge, Baratta's, Baru 66, Bistro Montage, BOS, Café Di Scala, Centro, Cosi Cucina Italian Grill, Court Avenue Brewing Company, Django, Dos Rios Cantina and Tequila Lounge, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, Gateway Market, Gino’s West Glen, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse - Des Moines, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse - West Des Moines, Kirkwood Lounge, Lucca, Luna, Maxie’s, Mezzodi’s, Mojo's on 86th, Open Sesame, Proof Restaurant, Raccoon River Brewing Company, Rock River Grill and Tavern, Sbrocco Wine Bar and Wine Shop, Splash Seafood Bar and Grill, Tally’s Restaurant and Bar, Trostel’s Greenbriar Restaurant, Tursi's Latin King Restaurant, Waterfront Seafood Market – Ankeny, Waterfront Seafood Market - West Des Moines and Zingaro.

Menus are posted online at www.SeeDesMoines.com and www.dsmmagazine.com. Facebook users can find more information by searching “Des Moines Restaurant Week.” Facebook users can also upload photos and feedback on the event on the GDMCVB Fan Page, www.facebook.com/SeeDesMoines. Twitter followers can keep up-to-date with event updates by following @DMRestaurantWk or @SeeDesMoines.

Sponsors include Doll Distributing, Hockenbergs Food Service, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Pearl Vodka and Sysco Food Services.

Official Online Resource for Caucus Media Now Available

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 11:10:04 CST

A new website to assist media as they plan to visit Greater Des Moines to cover the upcoming Straw Poll and Iowa Caucus is now live. The website, www.CaucusDM.com, was created by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) in collaboration with the Republican Party of Iowa, State Democratic Party and Greater Des Moines Partnership.

The website was developed to augment the planning process for media as they prepare to visit our region and assist them while they’re here. The site helps media:

Find available rental and facility space
Make hotel reservations
Review suggested outdoor and indoor shoot locations
Explore dining options – including late night dining
Review events and things to do
Gain access to numerous maps and transportation options
Make contact with local suppliers
Gain access to online Greater Des Moines media kit

Media may also apply for Iowa Caucus Media Credentials through the website.

“We are proud to offer this online tool for media from all over the world,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “Our goal is to welcome these media outlets and offer them assistance to further enhance their visitor experience. We know Greater Des Moines is a wonderful place to live and visit. We want to help the media see what we see so they can share an insider’s look at our community with their viewers, listeners and readers.”

The website is also accessible via smartphone at www.CaucusDM.com with functionality allowing GPS-enabled phones to search nearby bars, restaurants, events, things to do and hotels based on the smartphone-user’s current location.

The GDMCVB will continually update the website until two weeks following the Iowa Caucus.

New Central Iowa Bike Map Expected to Help Locals and Visitors Hit the Road

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:39:19 CST

A first-of-its-kind new regional trails map highlighting 18 routes in 11 Central Iowa counties is now available to locals and visitors. The Cycle Central Iowa Map features 16 loops on paved roads and trails and two loops on primarily gravel roads.

Local bike enthusiasts helped determine the best loops to promote and prepared brief write-ups for the back of the map, including nuggets about interesting side trips, local attractions plus suggestions for restaurants.

"This is a ground-breaking project," said Carl Voss, Des Moines Bicycle Collective Chair, who oversaw creation and development of the map. "We're proud to make this new reference guide available to explore our trails network, low-volume county roads and Iowa hospitality."

The project was a collaborative project, led by Voss. Casey's General Stores, Hy-Vee, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), area bike shops, bike enthusiasts and Bed and Breakfasts assisted to make this project a reality. The Marshalltown Convention and Visitors Bureau, Marion County, Pella, Red Rock and Madison County Chamber of Commerce will also assist as the map is made available to visitors and locals.

"Bicycle tourism is alive and well in Iowa! For decades, cyclists from all over the world have come to Iowa to ride RAGBRAI. But that is just one slice of the pie," said TJ Juskiewicz, RAGBRAI director and author of the A Not Long and Wine-Ding Road loop on the map. "Riders now come to experience Iowa's extensive trail system including our new gem, the High Trestle Trail. Iowa's farm-to-market road system opens up the entire state for cyclists to enjoy all 99 counties by bike!"

The maps are currently available for $2.99 at select Casey's General Stores and participating Hy-Vee stores. Visitors can request the map through the GDMCVB Visitor Packet Request online at SeeDesMoines.com.

Steve Durrant of Portland is on the Board of Directors for the League of American Bicyclists. He believes this map will help bring new visitors to Central Iowa. "All across the country communities are continuing to discover that tourism-and especially bicycle tourism-can be an important contribution to the local economy, civic engagement and quality of life. The bike trails, routes, scenic vistas and historic destinations found on the Cycle Central Iowa Map highlight those qualities and services," said Durrant.

A website has been launched, www.CycleCentralIowa.com, with additional features to be added in the coming weeks.

Classic Hot Rods Boost Greater Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:55:03 CST

As hot rods roll into Greater Des Moines this weekend, so do new dollars. The Goodguys 20th Heartland Rod and Custom Nationals will be at the Iowa State Fairgrounds July 1-3, 2011.

This event is expected to create at least $2 million economic impact on Greater Des Moines.

"With the more than 3,500 rods, customs and classics also come visitors ready to explore the city," said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. "We're proud to play a role in welcoming visitors into Greater Des Moines and creating additional business for our hotels, attractions, restaurants and area businesses."

For additional information on this event, or any other convention or event, visit SeeDesMoines.com/events.

Volkssporters Arrive in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:56:37 CST

About 1,000 exercise enthusiasts from around the country will be in Des Moines June 22-24 for the American Volkssport Convention. The event, which includes 11 organized walks throughout the state and association business meetings at the Polk County Convention Complex, starts Saturday, June 18 and runs through Sunday, June 26. The Greater Des Moines Volkssport Association is the local club hosting this convention through the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) Des Moines Connector program.

"It's fitting that Des Moines, named one of the top ten healthiest cities by Parenting Magazine, is hosting this group," said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Volkssporting is a personal fitness and sports program offering non-competitive walking, biking, swimming, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and rowing. Walking, also known as volkswalking or volksmarching, is the most popular volkssport activity with most being 10K walks (6.2 miles) on marked paths or with guided leaders.

The public is invited to participate in the Des Moines walk on Friday, June 24 as of 7 a.m. Walkers will tour Downtown Des Moines and residential neighborhoods. Registration for this walk is $2. More info can be found here.

Interview and story ideas:

There are eight local residents from this club that have walked at least one 10K in all 50 states.
Some walks will have up to 700 people participating; more than 530 walkers are expected for the Des Moines walk.
American Volkssport Convention has a statewide economic impact of $750,000, of which $500,000 will be in Polk County.

For additional information, visit ava.org or call Susan Pinneke at (515) 255-3653.

Greater Des Moines Hotel Rooms Nearly Sold Out

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 11:57:20 CST

Expect a busy week in Des Moines. Many visitors for NCAA Track and Field Outdoor Championships and World Pork Expo arrive in town today and tomorrow.

NCAA Track and Field hits the blue oval at Drake Stadium Wednesday, June 8-Saturday, June 11 and is expected to bring with it up to 40,000 attendees and $4 million in economic impact.

The World Pork Expo at the Iowa State Fairgrounds also kicks off Wednesday, June 8 and runs through Friday, June 10. World Pork Expo is expected to bring 30,000 attendees and $2.3 million in economic impact.

"Remaining hotel rooms are at a premium," said Greg Edwards, President and CEO at the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB). "We've been working diligently behind the scenes to ensure restaurants, hotels, attractions and other community partners are aware of the additional traffic they should prepare for this week. We've also provided table tents, welcome buttons and welcome signs for businesses to print and place in their storefronts. Additional volunteers are also staffing the Des Moines International Airport Information Kiosk."

The GDMCVB is also helping alert travelers of the Fleur Drive detours that may add an additional 5-10 minutes of travel time to and from the Airport.

Student "Attorneys" and "Witnesses" Compete in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 14:16:52 CST

Des Moines is welcoming more than 800 visitors, including 500 students, from around the country this week. The 27th Annual College Mock Trial National Championships will take place April 15-17. Forty-eight teams will compete for the title of best mock trial team in the USA.

"We're proud to again host this event in Des Moines," said Vicki Comegys, Vice President of Sales and Services at the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The College Mock Trial National Championships give our community excellent exposure to college students that will soon be looking for a place to live and work following graduation. We're confident Des Moines will again deliver great hospitality to these students."

Des Moines is an ideal location for the Annual College Mock Trial National Championships since the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) was founded by Dick Calkins, then-Dean of Drake University Law School. The AMTA's headquarters remain in West Des Moines.

The public is welcome to attend and watch as teams play the roles of attorneys and witnesses this weekend. The opening meeting for all teams is at 3 p.m. on Friday, April 15 at Hy-Vee Hall. Four rounds of trials will take place at the Polk County Courthouse, the United States District Courthouse and the Polk County Convention Complex. The awards ceremony for all teams will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 17 at the Polk County Convention Complex. The National Champion will be crowned at the Drake Legal Clinic at 24th and University in Des Moines at approximately 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 17.

Opportunities for still photos and video taping are available. Interviews with tournament organizers and students can be arranged upon request. For more information, please contact AMTA President David Nelmark at dwnelmark@belinlaw.com or (515) 988-0447.

Des Moines' Sports Success Continues

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:59:08 CST

Des Moines, IA - Des Moines has been chosen as the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Wrestling Championship host city for 2013. The event will be held at the Jacobson Exhibition Center at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on February 21-23, 2013.

"The Jacobson Center is the ideal location for NJCAA," said Gary Slater, CEO/Manager of the Iowa State Fairgrounds. "This is a major national booking for this new facility."

Des Moines hosted the event in 2010.

"We're proud to host NJCAA again. This is further proof that Iowa is a wrestling state," said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. "From NCAA to Junior College to Youth, the national governing bodies know Des Moines can and will deliver fans and excellent venues."

Scott Koch, Senior Sports Manager at the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, made the pitch to NJCAA and ultimately solidified Des Moines being selected. Proposals from each potential future host were reviewed and approved by the NJCAA Championship Events Committee and Board of Directors at their 2011 annual legislative meetings in Tampa, Florida.

Iowa Soccer Olympic Development Program Team Wins National Championship

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:18:21 CST

Iowa Soccer Association News Release
Contact: Jenny Wood, 515/252-6363
jwood@iowasoccer.org

On Sunday, March 6, Iowa Soccer‟s 1994 Boys Olympic Development Program (ODP) team captured the state‟s first-ever National Championship of any kind at the youth soccer level by defeating California-South, 4-1. The win comes on the heels of taking down another warm-weather state, Florida, 3-1 in Friday‟s semifinal at the Reach 11 Sports Complex in Phoenix, Ariz.

To put into perspective the outstanding achievement, the team not only defeated teams that have been training outside during the winter, but also that come from state associations that have among the highest numbers of registered players in all of US Youth Soccer. “For a state the size of Iowa to beat Florida and Cal-South in the National Finals, and win a National tournament that started last summer with state teams from all 55 State Associations is a phenomenal achievement,” said Iowa Soccer Director of Coaching Ian Bradley.

Coached by Andrew McKnight of Iowa City, the squad totaled seven goals in two matches, while giving up only two. In the victory against Florida, Gabe Christianson scored the opener at the 27th minute, with Tyler Chavez following at the 54th to open up a 2-0 lead. Florida scored in the 90th minute, but Iowa responded within seconds when Chavez struck gold a second time.

In the Championship, Danton Irelan put Iowa ahead with a tally 26 minutes in. Christianson scored what ended up as the game-winner with 20 minutes to play on a penalty kick. Cal-South struck with 13 minutes to go to pull within 2-1, but Irelan and Quint Wickett shut the door on a comeback with goals in the final five minutes. Patrick Bunting tended goal for Iowa in both matches.

McKnight shared his post-game reaction, “What a special moment at the final whistle, having the opportunity to see the reaction of the players, knowing how badly they wanted to succeed and knowing how hard they had to work to do it. It was very special.”

The Iowa team is no stranger to the National Championships, having competed there in 2010 after winning the 2009 Region II ODP Championships -- or to international competition – taking on Brazilian youth teams during a two-week tour there in 2009. The team also won the 2008 Region II ODP Championships, but at that time, no National competition was conducted for that birth year group.

Age group winners from each of the four US Youth Soccer Regions (Regions I, II, III and IV) are determined in summer preceding the National Championships. The ‟94 Boys‟ bracket was rounded out by Eastern Pennsylvania, another “large state” association.

Team members include Austin Bergstrom (Cedar Rapids), Patrick Bunting (Ankeny), Tyler Chavez (Iowa City), Gabe Christianson (Cedar Rapids), Joshua Dicken (Johnston), Juan Carlos Espinal (Muscatine), Chad Gilmer (Cedar Rapids), Ryan Hall (Tiffin), Danton Irelan (Ottumwa), Cody Jacobson (Johnston), Paris Martins (North Liberty), Austin Reutzel (Swisher), Muengnenshime Sunday (Iowa City), Konnor Tranoris (West Des Moines), Jonah Waldron (Adel), Quint Wickett (Bettendorf).

Of the players, McKnight stated, “The players were very aware that they were representing their families, their club coaches and the state of Iowa. They represented you all very well in every department.”

Iowa ODP teams are formed when players try out and are selected to compete on their age group team that represents the state at ODP events. Various additional competitions and training offers those players exposure to the nation‟s best coaches, trainers and facilities, as well as opportunities to advance up the ODP ladder. Last July, Bunting, Chavez, Christianson, Dicken, Irelan, Reutzel and Sunday all were selected to the Region II „94B ODP pool.

For more about the program, visit iowasoccer.org or contact Iowa Soccer Director of Coaching Ian Bradley, ibradley@iowasoccer.org.

Mark Kostek Named VP of Sports and Development

info@seedesmoines.com — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 22:22:04 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is proud to name its newest team member, Mark Kostek. Kostek will take the helm as Vice President of Sports and Development of the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), which is under the GDMCVB umbrella, March 7.

Kostek has been the Assistant Director of Athletics for Annual Fund and Special Events at Drake University since September 2008. Prior to that role, he was the Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations and Relays from February 2005-September 2008 and the Drake Relays Director and Assistant Director of Athletics from September 2000-February 2005 at Drake. During his time with the University, Kostek played a key role in directing special events, such as the NCAA Track and Field Championships and the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. He also supervised and supported the Drake Relays Director, among other additional duties.

Before moving to Des Moines in 2000, Kostek was Track and Field Coordinator at the University of Nebraska from 1980-2000.

"It's clear that Mark's no stranger to the world of sports," said GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. "He has strong relationships with many track and field experts throughout the country, which will no doubt assist the GDMCVB and DMASC in maintaining and developing sports-related bookings in Greater Des Moines. His devotion to the city and the sports arena, in particular, will serve our community very well."

"We're happy that Mark will still be active in the Des Moines sports scene. He has been a huge asset to the Drake Athletics program," said Drake University Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb. "We work closely with the DMASC and having Mark in his new role will continue to enhance our collective ability to attract major sporting events to the Greater Des Moines area."

Outside of work, Kostek was assigned as a technical official to the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2004 and 2008, and is one of only 12 U.S. National Technical Officials. He has also acted as a referee at the NCAA Championships from 2001-2006 and 2009-2010, among many other track and field-related activities and distinctions.

Kostek has a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Drake University and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from the University of Nebraska.

Kostek replaces Al Lorenzen, who left the DMASC to head up Wildwood Hills Ranch in early February.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Winners Announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 22:00:18 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the umbrella of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), has announced the winners of the Central Iowa Sports Awards, recognizing athletic excellence with honor in 2010. The winners were named Sunday, February 27, 2011 at The Meadows Ballroom, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona.

Video of the awards banquet will air on Mediacom Connections Channel 22 on a date that is still to be determined.

Central Iowans cast their votes for individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2010, within a 75-mile radius of Principal Park. The Central Iowa Sports Awards' Honor Committee reviewed the nominees and asked the public to vote for their top choices via the DMASC website in February. From those votes, the Honor Committee named the following winners.

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year

Jeremy Hellickson, Tampa Bay Rays
Event of the Year

USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships

College/University
Game of the Year
Iowa State vs. Texas Football
Team of the Year
William Penn, Football
Female Athlete of the Year
Lisa Koll, Iowa State Track & Field
Male Athlete of the Year
Shane Wong, Central Football

High School
Game of the Year
Dowling vs. Iowa City High Football
Team of the Year
Carlisle, Softball
Female Athlete of the Year
Katie Flood, Dowling Cross Country
Male Athlete of the Year
Tim Olejniczak, Ankeny Christian Academy Football

Lifetime Achievement
Bob Feller, Bob Feller Museum

The Central Iowa Sports Awards' Honor Committee is made up of: The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO's Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection's Mike Rickord.

Vote Now for the 2010 Central Iowa Sports Awards

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:47:22 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), an organization under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, is asking Central Iowans to vote now for their favorite local sports performances of 2010. Online voting is open now through February 18 at SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards (CISA) will be given to individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2010. The calendar year activities must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park. Award winners will be named at the CISA banquet Sunday, February 27, 2010 at 6 p.m. at the Meadows Ballroom, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona. Tickets are available for $85 per seat, or $650 for a table of eight at SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

"The Central Iowa Sports Awards are an opportunity for all of us to honor excellence and achievement in athletics," said Al Lorenzen, DMASC Vice President of Sports and Development. "We need everyone to vote for their favorite athlete or team today!"

Central Iowa Sports Awards will be awarded in the following categories:

High School

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
Event of the Year

Lifetime Achievement

To vote and to find more information, visit SeeDesMoines.com/CISA.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards' Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO's Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection's Mike Rickord.

Event Educates on Social Media Options

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 15:12:19 CST

For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 491-9350 (cell)
(515) 699-3433 (direct)
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

Social Media Workshop to Educate Local Business Leaders

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) will hold a Social Media Workshop from 8 a.m. to Noon Tuesday, November 16 at the Polk County Convention Complex, 501 Grand Avenue, Des Moines.

The workshop, sponsored by Catchfire Media, will help participants become more familiar with emerging social media tools and learn how they can fit into a company’s marketing strategies.

“This is a great opportunity for individuals and companies to gain insight into the role of social media and how to utilize these valuable, low-cost and no-cost tools,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the GDMCVB.

Workshop speakers include Maggie Augustine, Assistant Director, Corporate Relations, The Principal Financial Group; Ryan Bickel, Director of Marketing, Blank Park Zoo; Thomas Cox, Vice President, Marketing & Interactive Media, Meredith Corporation; Janette Larkin, Publisher, Business Publications; Ben Milne, Founder, Dwolla; Jeff Nelson, Director of Marketing, Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino; Jon Troen, Managing Partner, Catchfire Media; James Wilkerson, Database Editor, Des Moines Register.

Topics to be discussed:
• What’s New in Social Media
• Mobile/Website Applications for Business
• Facebook for Business

The event is free to GDMCVB Marketing Partners and $10 for all other individuals. To RSVP, contact Jan Meyers at (515) 699-3442 or jmeyers@desmoinescvb.com by Friday, November 12.

Social Media Workshop Scheduled

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:56:36 CST

For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 699-3433 or tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

Save the Date – Social Media Workshop

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) will hold a social media workshop from 8 a.m. to Noon Tuesday, November 16 at the Polk County Convention Complex, 501 Grand Avenue, Des Moines.

Workshop topics include:
• What’s New in Social Media
• Mobile/Website Applications for Business
• Facebook for Business

Speakers include:
• Maggie Augustine, Corporate Relations, The Principal Financial Group
• Ryan Bickel, Director of Marketing, Blank Park Zoo
• Thomas Cox, Vice President, Marketing & Interactive Media, Meredith Corporation
• Janette Larkin, Publisher, Business Publications
• Ben Milne, Founder, Dwolla
• Jeff Nelson, Director of Marketing, Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino
• Jon Troen, Managing Partner, Catchfire
• James Wilkerson, Database Editor, Des Moines Register

Admission is free to GDMCVB Marketing Partners and $10 per person for non-Partners. To RSVP, contact Jan Meyers at (515) 699-3442 or jmeyers@desmoinescvb.com.

The GDMCVB’s Social Media Workshop is sponsored by Catchfire Media.

Local Award Winners

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:40:58 CST

GDMCVB Honors Locals Serving the Community

For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 491-9350

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) has been serving the community since 1908. Last night, at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, the GDMCVB celebrated 102 years of serving Greater Des Moines by honoring local individuals and businesses that have helped make the last fiscal year a success.

“Greater Des Moines continues to attract 2.9 million visitors thanks in part to the support and assistance from these organizations and community champions,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “As a community, we truly are stronger and better together.”

Fiscal Year Award Recipients
Civic Friend of Hospitality: Des Moines Police Department
Corporate Friend of Hospitality: Meredith Corporation
Friend of Hospitality: Terry McLane, Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Hometown Hero: Des Moines Arts Festival
Media Friend of Hospitality: Van and Bonnie, 1040 WHO-AM
Partner of the Year: Civic Center of Greater Des Moines
Spirit of the Community: Polk County Board of Supervisors
Sport Friend of Hospitality: Matt Homan and the Iowa Events Center Staff
Volunteer of the Year: Veterans Association

These organizations have been recognized for their commitment to the community and the GDMCVB through various acts of generosity, volunteerism, donations and partnerships with the GDMCVB staff, clients and partners.

The GDMCVB Annual Celebration was sponsored by Iowa Beverage Systems and Copy Systems.

Pictures are available upon request.

NCAA Basketball in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:34:41 CST

UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA SELECTED TO HOST 2012 NCAA DIVISION I WOMEN'S BASKETBALL REGIONAL AT WELLS FARGO ARENA IN DES MOINES

Des Moines, IA - The NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championship Committee announced Tuesday, October 26 that the University of Northern Iowa has been selected as one of four hosts for the 2012 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Regional Championships at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA. The NCAA Committee awarded Fresno, CA; Kingston, RI; and Raleigh, NC as the other Regional sites in 2012. Tickets for the 2012 Regionals will go on sale at a later date.

The Des Moines Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was comprised of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), University of Northern Iowa (UNI), Global Spectrum and Polk County.

"Anytime we can land an event with the NCAA, it proves that Des Moines is becoming well-known in hosting high impact, national events," said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the GDMCVB. "Plus, it's a perk for local basketball fans as they can see, in person, one of the teams that will advance to the Final Four."

"We're thrilled to be selected as one of only four host institutions for the 2012 Division I Women's Basketball Regionals," UNI Athletics Director Troy Dannen said. "Hosting the games in Des Moines at Wells Fargo Arena will provide our fans a chance to travel to Central Iowa and for UNI to partner with the NCAA, Wells Fargo Arena and the City of Des Moines on one of the NCAA's most celebrated events."

Wells Fargo Arena last hosted the NCAA Division I Women's Basketball First and Second Rounds in 2008 and had the highest attendance out of all eight sites. This is the first time the Regional rounds have been awarded to Wells Fargo Arena. Des Moines hosted the 2008 NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships at Drake Stadium, with return trips scheduled for 2011 and 2012. This past June Wells Fargo Arena was awarded the 2013 Division I Wrestling Championships.

Des Moines has become a city known for executing high level sporting events in previous years, including the AAU Junior Olympics, Drake Relays, USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, High School Girls and Boys State Basketball Championships, High School State Wrestling Championships and the World Disc Golf Championships.

"We are excited that the NCAA has selected Wells Fargo Arena as one of four sites for the 2012 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Regional," said Global Spectrum's Matt Homan, General Manager of Wells Fargo Arena. "We felt after the success of hosting the 2008 first and second rounds that we would be a strong host site for the Regionals. We thank the NCAA for their confidence in us, and look forward to working with all of our partners on this prestigious event."

For more information, including a press release from NCAA, visit http://www.ncaa.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/102610aab.html.

Wells Fargo Arena Press Contact:
Adam Flack, Wells Fargo Arena
(515) 418-2618 cell
(515) 564-8031 office
aflack@iowaeventscenter.com

University of Northern Iowa Press Contact:
Colin McDonough
(319) 415-4059 cell
colin.mcdonough@uni.edu

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau/Des Moines Area Sports Commission:
Tiffany Tauscheck
(515) 491-9350 cell
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

Greater Des Moines Now at Your Fingertips

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 09:04:21 CST

For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 699-3433 (direct) or (515) 491-9350 (cell)
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is proud to unveil a new way of seeing Greater Des Moines with See Des Moines Mobile.

This new, interactive mobile website acts much like a mobile application. It allows locals and visitors to search for upcoming events, things to do, places to stay, coupons and deals and food and drink options easily from their smartphone.

See Des Moines Mobile offers a unique way of exploring Greater Des Moines. Users with a GPS-enabled smartphone can search for nearby points of interest by selecting “My Current Location.” The GPS-enabled smartphone then automatically determines your exact current location and provides a list of things to do, for example, within one mile of you. This same technology is available when searching for hotels, restaurants and nightlife on See Des Moines Mobile.

“We’re excited to offer another service to our visitors and locals,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the GDMCVB. “This technology is pretty cutting edge in the CVB arena and we are anxious to see how it continues to add to the visitor’s experience. We believe this will push more traffic into local hotels, businesses and restaurants which should result in higher visitor expenditures.”

The new See Des Moines Mobile is free and accessible to all iphone, Android and BlackBerry smartphone users by typing SeeDesMoines.com into their mobile web browser. This automatically redirects smartphone users to this new site.

The original SeeDesMoines.com website is still available via your computer.

GDMCVB 2010-2011 Board of Directors and Officers Named

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:31:03 CST

September 15, 2010
For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 699-3433 or ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is proud to announce this year’s Board of Directors and Officers.

Executive Committee
Chairman – Chris Coleman
Coleman is President of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Iowa and parts of Illinois, South Dakota and Nebraska. He also continues to serve as a city-wide Des Moines City Council Member and has served in this role since 1998. Coleman has been active in regional community leadership as Chair of the Board of the Metro Waste Authority, Vice Chair of the Board of the Metropolitan Planning Organization and Chair of the Homelessness Taskforce recently created to coordinate efforts dealing with homeless and funding from the county, city, United Way, Greater Des Moines Partnership and Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines.

Coleman will serve as Chairman of the GDMCVB Board of Directors through June 2012. One way he has demonstrated his commitment to the travel and tourism industry is through serving on the GDMCVB Board since 2001.

“The hospitality industry plays a strong role in building and sustaining a positive quality of life for locals through visitor dollars spent within our communities,” said Coleman. “The economic impact we create touches small businesses, retailers, restaurants, attractions, transportation companies, corporations and families. I’m proud to serve in a role that has such a profound impact on Greater Des Moines.”

Vice Chair - Paul Rottenberg
Rottenberg created Orchestrate Management in 2001 and continues to shape the future of the hospitality industry throughout Greater Des Moines. He has been credited for his strong development and management track record for nearly thirty years. Rottenberg was named one of Des Moines’ most influential business leaders by the Des Moines Register in 2006 and was recognized as a finalist in the Central Midwest for Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year.

Secretary/Treasurer – Rick Messerschmidt
Messerschmidt is the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Vice President of First Bank in West Des Moines. He’s been with First Bank since 1980, and most recently served as President and CEO. Messerschmidt is Chair of the West Des Moines Historical Society and is a West Des Moines Park Board Commissioner. He has also served in various other community leadership roles, such as the Interim Mayor of West Des Moines, West Des Moines Community Schools Foundation for Educational Excellence, American Heart Association, Saint Boniface Catholic Church and the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.

Immediate Past Chair – Terry McLane
McLane is General Manager of the Des Moines Marriott Downtown and has served in this role since January 2008. He served as Chairman of the GDMCVB Board from 2008-2010. Previously, he was the Market General Manager at the West Des Moines Marriott and is a 33-year Marriott veteran, working in various positions within the organization at nine hotels in seven states and the District of Columbia. McLane also serves currently on the Iowa Lodging Association Board where he was President from 2007-2009.

At Large – Paula Dierenfeld
Dierenfeld serves as the Mayor of Johnston and is a shareholder in the Nyemaster Goode Law Firm in Des Moines. Previously, she served as a Commissioner on the Iowa Utilities Board, as legal counsel to Governor Terry Branstad, as director of the Republican Research Staff in the Iowa Senate and as staff assistant to U.S. Senator Charles Grassley.

Board of Directors
Mayor Tom Armstrong, City of Grimes
Mayor Bob Andeweg, City of Urbandale
Mayor Tim Burget, City of Altoona
Mayor Scott Cirksena, City of Clive
Mayor Jason Dively, City of Pleasant Hill
Mayor Jay Pattee, City of Perry
Mayor Jerry Sullivan, City of Windsor Heights
Mayor Steve Van Oort, City of Ankeny
Angela Connolly, Polk County Supervisor
Jim Sandager, City of West Des Moines
Ann Atkin, Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino
Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Drake University
Matt Homan, Iowa Events Center
Libby Jacobs, The Jacobs Group
Tom Murray, Country Inn & Suites
Art Slusark, Meredith Corporation
Kirk Tyler, Atlantic Bottling Co.

Stoney Creek Inn in Johnston Receives Award and Renovates

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:22:50 CST

For more information contact:
LaVonne Hamilton Klein
VP/Stoney Creek Hospitality Corporation
(309) 263-1334
Lavonne.klein@stoneycreekinn.com

Tiffany Tauscheck
Vice President of Marketing, GDMCVB
(515) 699-3433 Direct
(515) 491-9350 Cell
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

DES MOINES, IA - Stoney Creek Inn in Johnston, Iowa is the proud recipient of the "Best of MidAmerica" Award from Meetings MidAmerica Magazine. Readers were asked to choose their favorite properties, considering many key factors, including: quality of meeting space, guest rooms, staff, service, food and beverage amenities, activities and value. The property must have been visited within the last year. The property was also chosen by top national meeting planners as an outstanding meeting facility.

Stoney Creek Inn is also proud to announce the imminent completion of a major renovation of the property in Johnston, located right of I-80. Renovations include: new guest room carpet, wallpaper, furniture, bedding, window coverings, art work and flat panel TV's in all rooms, public upgrades, conference center changes in corridor carpeting, wallpaper, AV equipment, new pool furniture and selected Wilderness Park updates. The remodel slogan of "A great place just got GREATER!" certainly seems appropriate.

Since its beginning in 1994, the Stoney Creek Inn concept of a collection of upscale lodge properties has grown to 12 hotels in the Midwest. Locations are Galena, Peoria, Quad Cities and Quincy, Illinois, Des Moines, Sioux City, and Waukon, Iowa, Columbia and St. Joseph, Missouri and La Crosse and Wausau, Wisconsin.

The newest property and the first in the Grand Lodge by Stoney Creek brand is located in Wausau, Wisconsin. The Grand amenity at this property is Loggers Landing Water Park, 50,000 square feet of fun!

For reservations and information, visit the website at stoneycreekinn.com or call (800) 659-2220.

100 Things to See and Do in Des Moines this Fall and Winter

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:16:32 CST

For more information, contact Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
(515) 699-3433 or ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

Des Moines, IA – The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is releasing a new list of “100 Things to See and Do in Des Moines this Fall and Winter.” The list, available now online at www.SeeDesMoines.com/100, includes a variety of local and visitor favorites, spanning eateries, attractions, festivals and seasonal activities – some well-known and some well-kept secrets. The list can also be found in See Des Moines, the Official Guide to Greater Des Moines.

“The 100 Things to See and Do in Des Moines this Spring and Summer was such a hit, that we decided to continue the fun into the Fall and Winter seasons,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the GDMCVB.

See Des Moines is available at the GDMCVB Office located at 400 Locust Street, Suite 265 in Capital Square, Downtown Des Moines and at the Visitor Information Kiosk inside the Des Moines International Airport. Approximately 120,000 copies of See Des Moines will be distributed this Fall and Winter at conventions, meetings, in all area hotels and in requested visitor packets.

The online version of the list allows website visitors to sort the list based on area of town. Visitors can also easily see which of the 100 Things to Do are free and which would match their personality type. To begin planning Fall and Winter festivities now, check out www.SeeDesMoines.com/100.

World Premiere of Emerica Skateboarding Video "STAY GOLD" on August 21 in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 17:30:24 CST

Contact: Des Moines Regional Skatepark Steering Committee
Jan Hill, President
(515) 979-6336
jhill821@msn.com
A Mid-Iowa Organizing Strategy (AMOS)
Paul Turner, Lead Organizer
turnpr@msn.com

DES MOINES, IA - New York, Los Angeles, and Des Moines, Iowa, have been chosen by Emerica to premiere “Stay Gold,” a skateboarding video featuring the entire Emerica team, prior to the September 1 release.

The world premiere in Des Moines will be this Saturday, August 21, in front of the new Subsect Skateshop at 309 E Walnut.

Autograph signing with the entire Emerica team, including pros Andrew Reynolds, Heath Kirchart, Bryan Herman, and Leo Romero, will begin at 5 p.m. Seating for the video premiere will begin at 7:30 p.m.; the video will be shown at dusk. Food and beverages will be available. The showing is free. Preferred seating is available for $5 (200 seats available), with all proceeds going to the Des Moines Regional Skatepark Fund. The Regional Skatepark, planned to be the largest in the USA, will be located along the west bank of the Des Moines River, north of the new pedestrian bridge. For more information about the premiere, go to www.subsectonline.com or www.emerica.com, or call Subsect at 276-4365.

Donations to support the Des Moines Regional Skatepark should be directed to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, 1915 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309. Write Des Moines Regional Skatepark Fund in the check memo line. To donate online, visit www.desmoinesfoundation.org, click Donate Online, Community Betterment Funds, and select the Des Moines Regional Skatepark Fund from the drop down menu.

Restaurant Week Expected to Boost Local Eatery Business

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:35:55 CST

For more information contact: Tiffany Tauscheck
Vice President of Marketing
Direct: (515) 699-3433
tiffany@desmoinescvb.com

DES MOINES, IA - The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Business Record and dsm Magazine invite residents and visitors to attend Des Moines' third annual Restaurant Week this Friday, August 20 through Sunday, August 29.

An estimated $120,000 was spent in Greater Des Moines' restaurants during Restaurant Week last year.

"We continue to receive positive feedback from our restaurateurs," said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the GDMCVB. "Last year we heard many success stories from patrons and restaurant owners. We are proud to again give Greater Des Moines a time to celebrate and experience the fabulous culinary arts."

Thirty-nine participating restaurants will create special three-course dinners for a prix-fixed price $25 per person or $25 for lunch for two. Diners are invited to visit the participating restaurants, save at least four receipts and enter to win a trip for two to Puerto Rico. Receipts must be mailed or dropped off to dsm Magazine, 100 4th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309.

Participating restaurants include: ALBA Restaurant, Azalea Restaurant and Lounge, Baratta's, Baru 66, Bistro Montage, Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar, BOS, Brickhouse American Grille, Café Di Scala, Caffrey's Steak House, Centro, Chef's Kitchen, Christopher's, Cosi Cucina Italian Grill, Court Avenue Brewing Company, Django, Dos Rios Cantina and Tequila Lounge, Fire Creek, Gateway Market, Gino's West at West Glen, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse - Des Moines, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse - West Des Moines, Le Jardin, Lucca, Mandarin, Mezzodi's, Mojo's on 86th, Proof Restaurant, Q Restaurant and Bar, Raccoon River Brewing Company, Rock River Grill and Tavern, Sbrocco Wine Bar and Wine Shop, Splash Seafood Bar and Grill, Timothy's Steak House and Pub, Trostel's Dish, Trostel's Greenbriar Restaurant, Tursi's Latin King Restaurant, Waterfront Seafood Market - Ankeny and Waterfront Seafood Market - West Des Moines.

Menus are posted online at SeeDesMoines.com/RestaurantWeek and dsmmagazine.com. Facebook users can find more information by searching "Des Moines Restaurant Week." Facebook users can also upload photos and feedback on the event on the GDMCVB Fan Page, facebook.com/SeeDesMoines. Twitter followers can tweet and follow the events' updates by using the hashtag, #DMRestaurantWeek.

Sponsors include Sysco, Doll Distributing, Hockenbergs Food Service, Iowa Beef Industry Council and Pearl Vodka.

No purchase necessary. Visit dsmmagazine.com for the official rules.

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

Three Festivals in One at This Year's Des Moines Renaissance Faire

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:22:34 CST

Contacts: Greg Schmidt, 641-357-5177
greg@festint.com
Max Kenkel, 515-262-4100
mxknkl@yahoo.com
*Photos & Video available

DES MOINES - The Des Moines Renaissance Faire will celebrate its 5th year at the custom-designed ‘merry olde England’ theme park by presenting three different weekends of unique entertainment and history. Dubbed Canterbury-on-Sherwood, this expansive castle town will host the themed weekends, entitled “Knights, Barbarians & Heroes” (September 4-6th), “Scots, Britons & Irish” (September 11-12th), and “Pirates, Persians & Buccaneers” (September 18-19th).

Like the legendary Scottish village of Brigadoon, the Des Moines metro area’s newest fun park cannot be seen by light of day, nor from its 4051 Dean Avenue approach. In fact, it hides behind an impressive wall of trees at the backside of the popular Sleepy Hollow Sports Park on the border of Pleasant Hill. Only once people cross the 75-foot troll bridge over the panoramic river can they begin to view a true architectural wonder. In the heartland there lies an assembly of 40 quaint shops, a Main Street plaza, 12 food pavilions, a beer garden and wine villa, a jousting arena, a huge faerie treehouse, six grand stages for entertainment, a tavern pub and feasting hall, a combat zone, a pony-ride trail, archery range, various gaming concessions and skills challenges, two living history realms, and the region’s largest castle with a torture chamber tour inside of it.

The Des Moines Renaissance Faire offers a lot of everything. On one hand you have women in tight corsets and rum enough for even the filthiest pirate. On the other hand you have a Children’s Realm with a giant tree house, puppet stage, and plenty of G-rated acts for the entire family.

Boasting over 25 stage shows daily, as well as demonstrations, exhibits, hands-on activities, and strolling acts, the DMRF is actually presented as the European State Fair of the 16th Century. With the showcasing of numerous new performing groups and village characters from around the Midwest, it also features the return of popular national acts, such as the equestrian jousting show “Joust Evolution”, the adult comedy faerie tale “Charming & Dashing”, the “Scrap-n-Wolf Fire Comedy” and the “Three Musketeers” show.

The entertainment focus this year will be in the Burning Man tradition with a variety of acts doing fire juggling, fire dance, fire breathing and choreography with fire. Plus, several lines of artworks will be created on-site from live fire.

This year’s Des Moines Renaissance Faire is being celebrated nationally with a cover photo and 12-page color photo spread in the current issue of ‘Renaissance’ Magazine.

“With the help of the management at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, we’ve been able to mount a multi-weekend event that people from as far away as Kansas City and Minneapolis are now attending as their annual tradition,” festival producer Gregory Schmidt brags.

“This is the big kahuna of history fun festivals in our region. And to hold that status we are adding more food novelties, new music groups and ten more artisan crafters to the merchant village.”

Admission is $16 for adults, $8.50 for kids from 5 to 12, with tots free. The two-day pass is $25 and the season pass for all seven days is $35. These prices already include sales tax. There will be $2-off adult tickets available in advance at metro area Hy-Vee stores.

For detailed festival information go to dmrenfaire.com or greg@festint.com or (641) 357-5177. For directions and location information go to sleepyhollowsportspark.com or mxknkl@yahoo.com or (515) 262-4100.

Frontier Adds New Nonstop Service from Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 19:33:11 CST

Contact
Corporate Communications
(720) 374-4560
media@flyfrontier.com

DENVER - Frontier Airlines today announced the addition of new nonstop service between Des Moines International Airport (DSM) and Denver International Airport (DEN). Frontier will serve the Des Moines market with new six-days-per-week flights beginning Oct. 24, 2010. Frontier Airlines is a wholly owned subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RJET)

Special introductory fares for this new service (for example: DSM to DEN for $59 each way, DSM to Seattle or San Francisco for $109 each way) will be available for sale for a limited time on FrontierAirlines.com beginning today, Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2010.

“Along with Frontier’s three daily nonstops to Milwaukee, we are pleased to offer very affordable direct service to Denver,” said Daniel Shurz, Frontier vice president of strategy and planning. “With nonstop service to Milwaukee and now Denver, Frontier provides Des Moines-area travelers with economical access to the east and west with connections to Frontier’s more than 70 destinations across the United States, Mexico and Costa Rica.”

Frontier’s new Des Moines service will be flown by the 99-seat Embraer 190 aircraft. Customers on board these aircraft enjoy comfortable leather seating in a two-by-two configuration. In addition, the E190 has several rows of STRETCH seating, which provides an additional five inches of comfortable legroom. The Company’s E190 fleet will also be outfitted with in-flight internet service by the end of 2010.

Here are the schedules for the new Des Moines service:

Denver - Des Moines (Effective Oct. 24, 2010)

Flight Number	Departs	Arrives	Frequency	Aircraft
F9 1704	3:10 p.m.	5:45 p.m.	Daily except Saturday	E190

Des Moines - Denver (Effective Oct. 24, 2010)

Flight Number	Departs	Arrives	Frequency	Aircraft
F9 1703	6:15 p.m.	7:15 p.m.	Daily except Saturday	E190

About Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is a wholly owned subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings, Inc., an airline holding company that owns Chautauqua Airlines, Lynx Aviation, Midwest Airlines, Republic Airlines and Shuttle America. Currently in its 17th year of operations, Frontier employs more than 5,500 aviation professionals and operates more than 550 daily flights from its hubs at Denver International Airport and Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport. Frontier offers routes to more than 70 destinations in the United States, Mexico and Costa Rica.

On April 13, 2010, Republic Airways announced that its two branded carriers, Frontier and Midwest, would combine under the Frontier Airlines name. The integration of these two airlines is expected to take 12-18 months. Track our progress at FrontierMidwest.com.

For more in-depth information on Frontier Airlines and to book tickets, please visit its website at FrontierAirlines.com.

48 Hour Film Project Announces Top Films for Best of City Celebration

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:50:06 CST

Out of a record number 48 filmmaker entries, Top 12 on the Fleur Cinema movie screens and walk the red carpet during the 48HFP Awards and Celebration on the evening of August 12

Walk the red carpet, enjoy the Top 12 films from the Des Moines 48 Hour Film Project (48HFP) in 2010, and then find out all the award winners 7 pm, August 12 at the Fleur Cinema & Cafe. A catered reception and exclusive concert featuring The Speedbumps follows at the Des Moines Social Club. Red Carpet tickets must be purchased in advance at MidwesTIX.com or Fleur Cinema Box Office.

"I don't envy the judges and the decisions they needed to make," states Des Moines 48HFP Producer Sam Tuomi. "The competition was fierce and the independent filmmakers of Iowa have some mad film skills. The August 12 Screening will be a celebration of creative Iowa talent."

Over July 23-25, 48 filmmaking teams took part in the 48 HFP challenge in Iowa to write, film, edit, and produce a short film in 48 hours. All films were required to be between four to seven minutes in length, exemplify their randomly selected genre, and include these required elements: character - Carl/Carla Ross (a plumber), prop - coins, and line of dialog - "Who came up with that?" All 48 films were shown at the Fleur Cinema July 28 & 29 for people to enjoy and vote for their favorite film in each screening group. Since then, judges have reviewed the entries and chosen the Top 12 films to be part of the Best of City Screening and Awards Celebration sponsored by the Des Moines Social Club and MidwesTIX.

Jason Garnett of JG Faux Show will host the Best of City Scre ening and Awards Celebration, as well as interview filmmakers, actors, crew and fans of each film on the red carpet prior to the celebration at 7 pm, August 12 outside the Fleur Cinema & Cafe. Over $2000 in cash and prizes will be given out to the winners, including the "Best of Des Moines" award for the judges choice of the finest 48HFP film to advance to the International 48 Hour Film Project competition in the coming months. Filmmakers of the "Best of Des Moines" film will also receive $1000 cash and other prizes.

The Top 12 films being presented August 12 are: (in alphabetical order by title and include filmmaker team name and genre of film)
"At Your Disposal" by Team Last To Enter (Fantasy)
"Coin Daddy" by Team Continuity (Road Movie)
* "Color Match" by Team (Romance)
"Game Over" 16 to the 4th power plus Y (Adventure Serial)
* " ;Illegal Tender" by Japanese Tractor Company Films (Film Noir)
"Insertion" by White Poison Industries (Mockumentary)
"The Masks We Wear" by River Run Productions (Foreign)
* "Rejected" by Fruwaukoo Films (Comedy)
"Return of the Ring" by SouthSiderStudios (Comedy)
"A Sweet Demise" by Napkin Sketch (Film Noir)
* "Unpublished" by Slater Maxwell Production (Dark Comedy)
"XP3NDABL3" by Fire by Night Productions (Time Travel)
* denotes winner of audience award of respective screening groups, all other awards to be announced on August 12

DES MOINES 48HFP IMPORTANT DATES:
August 12, 2010
* Best of City Celebration (open to the public) - includes screenings of the top 12 judged films from the 2010 Des Moines 48HFP entries
Fleur Cinema & Cafe (4545 Fleur Dr - DSM)
After Party at the Des Moines Social Club (1408 Locust St - DSM) including exclusive concert by The Speedbumps

STAY UP-TO-DATE ONLINE:
facebook: facebook.com/desmoines48
twitter: twitter.com/48hfpdesmoines

The 48 Hour Film Project is a film competition in over 80 cities, world-wide. The 48HFP is a wild and sleepless weekend in which filmmakers make a short film - wr ite, shoot, edit and score it - in just 48 hours. On Friday night, they are each assigned a character, a prop, a line of dialogue and a genre, all to include in their film. 48 hours later, the completed film must be submitted. Since 2005, the Des Moines 48 Hour Film Project has showcased over 220 films.

The Des Moines 48 Hour Film Project is sponsored by The Fleur Cinema & Cafe, Put It On Video, Des Moines Art Center, Des Moines Social Club, Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau, Iowa Motion Picture Association, Iowa Scriptwriters Alliance, Lotus Moments Event Center & Printing, The Wedding Format, Fong's Pizza, and MidwesTIX.

###

If you'd like more information about the 48 Hour Film Project or would like to schedule an interview, please call Sam Tuomi at (515) 229-4515 or email Sam at samtuomi@gmail.com.

Jack Hanna makes first trip to Iowa's Zoo this Fall

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 18:44:48 CST

Jack Hanna will visit Blank Park Zoo on September 29

For a photo of Jack Hanna or the Australian Adventure, visit blankparkzoo.com/press

Iowa’s Blank Park Zoo announced today several additional events this fall including a visit from America’s favorite zookeeper, Jack Hanna on the evening of September 29.

“This is Jungle Jack’s first trip to Blank Park Zoo,” said Mark Vukovich, CEO. “Jack will bring some of his exotic animal friends and tell stories of his many adventures.”

Vukovich noted that Hanna’s appearance will coincide with the beginning of construction on a $1.3 million renovation of the Zoo’s Australian Adventure. The renovation will include new Australian theming and interactives, several new animal species, a new holding area for the Australian animals and a new train barn.

“Guests will be immersed into the wonders of Australia. You can take a picture next to a didgeridoo, learn how a boomerang works and see how Australia became an island, and Jack Hanna’s visit will be a great way to kick it off,” said Vukovich.

The new Australian Adventure will open in summer 2011.

Jack Hanna’s visit is sponsored by Nationwide Insurance. Nationwide, is based in Columbus, Ohio, and is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by A.M. Best. Nationwide companies based in Des Moines are Allied Insurance, Nationwide Agribusiness and Nationwide Advantage Mortgage.

About Jack Hanna:
Jack Hanna is the Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and is the host of the television show Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild. He is probably best known for his many television appearances on Good Morning America, The Late Show with David Letterman, Larry King Live and others. He is the author of several books. Learn more about Jack Hanna at jackhanna.com.

Here’s a list of happenings at the Blank Park Zoo from now until winter:

Jack Hanna - On the evening of Wednesday, September 29, 2010, Jack Hanna will come to Blank Park Zoo. Recognized around the country as America's favorite zookeeper, Jack Hanna's live show features his favorite exotic animal friends, as well as fascinating and funny stories from his many adventures around the world. The entire family will be thoroughly entertained and ultimately inspired! Sponsored by Nationwide Insurance, this exciting and unique opportunity will include a chance to get your photo taken with Jack Hanna, visit the exotic animals found at Blank Park Zoo and, of course, take a trip with Jack as he shares his animal friends and many wild adventures.

Tickets:
Wednesday, September 29, 2010, 5:30pm

Cost:
Children 12 and under
$5 Members
$10 Non-members
Adults
$10 Members
$20 Non-members

Australia Adventure expansion and remodel – A $1.3 million remodel of the Australian exhibit will begin in September. When completed in summer 2011, the exhibit will feature several new animal species, new Australian theming where guests will learn how a boomerang works, take a picture next to a didgeridoo and more. A new, modern animal holding area will be constructed along with a train barn.

Feed an Ostrich - Nine amazing birds humorously chow down at 11am every Saturday & Sunday through September. FYI … Did you know that an ostrich does not like to stick its head into a pile of sand to hide?

Safari Splash - When the heat turns up in August, kids visiting the Blank Park Zoo will be cooling down. During the first week of August, children will enjoy a wet and wild time as they ride the inflatable slip-n-slide. In addition, guests will enjoy cool treats and watch how some of the Blank Park Zoo animals stay cool during the ‘dog days’ of summer. (August 2-6).

The Birdman - “Birds Down Under” See the Birdman’s Australian birds including cockatoos and sarus cranes perform in this entertaining and educational show. (now through August 15.)

Parakeet Feeding Experience – Enter the Zoo’s new aviary and meet over 250 parakeets. They will flock to your hand and eat a special meal right from a stick. Since parakeets hail from Australia, we’re calling it Budgie Bog In (Bog In means eat enthusiastically or chow down). This experience is available at many of the most popular zoos across the United States and has been delighting people of all ages since opening in June. (open daily through September)

New Fish - The Blank Park Zoo will be home to nearly 100 new fish this fall. They will be added gradually throughout the next couple of months. Included are Harlequin Tusk Wrasse, Rafflesi Butterfly, Sea Urchins, Green Dragon Pipefish, Blue Stripe Pipefish and several trigger and tang varieties.

Uptown Hoedown - Leave your black ties and ball gowns at the cleaners, grab your dancing boots and join us Saturday, August 28 for a wild and exotic country style gala to benefit the Blank Park Zoo. Guests will explore the Zoo, enjoy a cocktail hour, dinner and great entertainment throughout the evening. Funds from the Uptown Hoedown support the educational programs at the Blank Park Zoo as well as the training, veterinary care and general operations related to managing the animal collection.

Wildlife Conservation Series - An Evening for African Predators
African Predator Conservation Research Organization (APCRO)
Blank Park Zoo is pleased to welcome Dr. Michael Briggs, co-founder and CEO of the African Predator Conservation Research Organization. APCRO is dedicated to studying the viability and health of African predators in the short term as well as evaluating their potential for long-term survival. They are working to protect a variety of African predators including spotted hyenas, African wild dogs, jackals, African lions, African leopards and cheetah. These great cats and rare canines play a key role in African ecosystems. Join us to learn about APCRO's pioneering work to save them.

September 11, 2010
5:30 PM - Social Hour and Discovery Center viewing
6:30 PM - Dinner
Presentation and Auction following dinner
$30 per person or $180 for a table of eight
$20 per student (valid student ID required)
All proceeds raised will benefit the African Predator Conservation Research Organization.

Family Friday Nights - Blank Park Zoo is open EVERY Friday evening this summer through August! Each Family Friday Night features family friendly music, special craft activities, keeper chats, and, of course, all of the animals of the Blank Park Zoo. This event is free with regular Zoo admission and free for Zoo members. (Now through August).

Night Eyes - everyone’s favorite trick or treat event returns this October for its twentieth straight year of “merry not scary” fun. Over 600,000 treats will be passed out at the #1 family Halloween event.

RENTALS
Group Safari Packages - The Blank Park Zoo is perfect for family reunions, company picnics and meetings, group outings and more. Enjoy all the animals and activities the Zoo has to offer at a reduced cost. Ask about our special group tours and meal packages.

Holiday Parties - The Blank Park Zoo Discovery Center is great place to hold a holiday party overlooking the tropical aviary exhibit. The time to book your party is now.

Birthday Parties - The best place to take the kids is now the wildest place for a Birthday party. Check out blankparkzoo.com for details.

Out of 48 Film Teams 44 Finish on Time

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 19:59:23 CST

Four screenings July 28 - 29 spotlight Iowa filmmaking talent

With just 4 elements given to them:

Randomly drawn film genre
Required character: Carl or Carla Ross, Plumber
Required prop: Coins
Required line of dialogue: "Who came up with that"

48 teams of filmmakers wrote, filmed, edited hundreds of hours of film in just 48 hours over the past weekend - each to create their best 4- 7 minute short film to compete for "The Best of City" award in this years Des Moines 48 Hour Film Project. Audiences will get to see all the hard work and long hours on the big screen - and vote for their favorite film - at Fleur Cinema (4545 Fleur Drive) starting Wednesday July 28 and Thursday July 29 at 7 and 9:30 pm.

See the Films made in one weekend!
The 48 Hour Film Project will hold two nights of screenings, featuring the official 2010 entries, at the Fleur Cinema & Café on July 28 and 29. Witness films by local filmmakers made just 3 days earlier. Groups A and B, July 28; Groups C and D, July 29. Shows at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 per show. Discount combo tickets are available. Visit: midwestix.com or call the Fleur Cinema, (515) 287-4545.

Then on August 12, Walk the red carpet, witness the top 12 films of 2010, then find out all the award winners. A catered reception and exclusive concert featuring The Speedbumps follows at the Des Moines Social Club as part of the Awards Celebration sponsored by Midwestix and The Des Moines Social Club. Red Carpet tickets are only available at midwestix.com. General Admission tickets available at the Fleur Box Office.

The Des Moines 48 Hour Film Project is sponsored by The Fleur Cinema & Cafe, Put It On Video, Des Moines Art Center, Des Moines Social Club, Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau, Iowa Motion Picture Association, Iowa Scriptwriters Alliance, The Wedding Format, Lotus Moments Event Center & Printing and MidwesTIX.

For more information please visit 48hourfilm.com/desmoines.

Sleepy Hollow Launches New Go-Karts Today

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:27:51 CST

Sleepy Hollow Sports Park is proud to announce that they are rolling out brand new Go-Karts today, July 16. They have replaced their entire fleet. The new carts will begin operation today at 1 p.m.

Max Kenkel, General Manager for Sleepy Hollow said, “The new carts are designed for our track, which is a ¼ mile Grand Prix style. People should notice right away a big difference in the way they handle.”

Go-Karting at Sleepy Hollow is open daily. Hours are 1-9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and Noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.

For more information on Sleepy Hollow visit sleepyhollowsportspark.com or call 515.262.4100.

Parade Expected to Break Record Today

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:18:46 CST

DES MOINES - Due to the higher than anticipated turn out last night at the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) Wing Ding 32 Light Parade in Historic Valley Junction, we are now anticipating 1,000 motorcycles to participate in tonight’s Grand Parade. This is the largest motorcycle parade in the nation. This would break records of Wing Ding parades held throughout the country previously.

Staging begins on Grand Avenue at 3:30 p.m. today, July 2. The motorcyclists will take off from 5th and Grand at 5:30 p.m. They’ll snake through 13 neighborhoods and end at Urbandale High School. The parade routes may cause some traffic delays.

Immediately following the parade there will be a presentation by the GWRRA Drill Team and Top Gun performers at the Urbandale High School parking lot.

Grand Parade Directions: http://www.seedesmoines.com/uploads/pdf/gold_wing_grand_parade_directions.pdf

Grand Parade Map: http://www.seedesmoines.com/uploads/pdf/gold_wing_grand_parade_map.pdf

Local support is highly encouraged and appreciated. Wing Ding welcome signs may be printed for free at www.SeeDesMoines.com/WingDing.

Downtown Events Scheduled for this Weekend Still On

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:39:25 CST

City Manager Rick Clark wants to remind residents and visitors to our city that the downtown area is open for the events that are scheduled for this weekend. Several events are planned, including the Gold Wing Road Riders Association Annual Convention, the Yankee Doodle Pops Concert and the 80-35 Music Festival. These activities in addition to the Farmers’ Market shoppers and Iowa Cubs Baseball fans will all enjoy the vibrant ambiance of downtown Des Moines.

Although the city is facing significant increasing levels of water on parts of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, we do not anticipate the levees to be topped nor street and bridges in the immediate downtown area to be closed. However, some of the planned events have caused street closures in the downtown area. Several precautionary measures have been taken to maintain safety along the riverbanks where water levels continue to rise and move at a high speed. The public is advised to keep a safe distance from the riverbanks and honor all signage, barricades, fencing and closures in effect.

“We have several great events planned for downtown this weekend but at the same time we want people to be alert, exercise caution and keep a safe distance from the river banks,” said City Manager Richard Clark. “As the river rises, the threat of levee failure increases in parts of the city, particularly the Birdland area and the city is preparing to implement emergency evacuations if it becomes necessary. We hope evacuations will not be needed, but the city is prepared in the event it occurs, Clark added.

The city offers the following precautionary guidelines for the public:

Avoid standing or walking by the river’s edge.
Be prepared and stay alert to your surroundings should an unforeseen event occur.
Do not come to an area to just look at the river. There will likely be some type of activity going on around the river and there is no need for undue risk.
Avoid traveling through already flooded areas or areas in question. Downtown events will increase traffic and any unnecessary traffic will only make it worse.
Plan your travel routes ahead of time. Due to street closures, which have the possibility of changing each day, other routes may become more congested.

For more information please contact Amelia Hamilton Morris, Chief Communications Officer for the City of Des Moines at (515) 283-4795 or (515) 202-8337.

Motorcycle Parades Snake Through Greater Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 11:38:33 CST

For more information contact: Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
Direct: (515) 699-3433
Cell: (515) 491-9350
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

DES MOINES, IA - The country's largest motorcycle parade, known as The Grand Parade, featuring Honda Gold Wing and Valkyrie motorcycles will take place in Greater Des Moines on Friday, July 2. A second parade, known as the Wing Ding Light Parade, also featuring Honda Gold Wing and Valkyrie motorcycles, will take place after dark on Thursday, July 1.

Light Parade
The Gold Wing Road Riders Association's (GWRRA) Wing Ding 32 Light Parade begins Thursday, July 1 at 9:30 p.m. About 100 motorcycles will be lit up with neon lights and roll through Historic Valley Junction. Locals are encouraged to attend and see the light show.

The Grand Parade
On Friday, July 2 at 5:30 p.m. about 800 motorcycles will begin a journey from the Polk County Convention Complex downtown, through 13 neighborhood associations and end at the Urbandale High School. The parade is expected to conclude at 7 p.m. Some GWRRA motorcyclists will perform an on-bike drill team performance outside of Urbandale High School immediately following the parade.

Locals are encouraged to be alert and watch for the motorcyclists throughout the parade routes. They're also asked to attend. Free, printable signs to wave at the parades are available at www.SeeDesMoines.com/WingDing.

Parade routes and directions are viewable here: http://www.seedesmoines.com/conventions/greater_des_moines_locals.php.

**Media: Photographs and liveshots are welcome along the route. Please call Tiffany Tauscheck at (515) 491-9350 to determine the best time/place to set up for the shots you'd prefer.

Wing Ding 32 Overview
GWRRA's Wing Ding 32 is expected to bring 11,000 to 14,000 attendees into Greater Des Moines for the event which runs June 30-July 3, 2010. This is the first time Greater Des Moines is hosting Wing Ding.

About Gold Wing Road Riders Association
The Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) is the world's largest single-marquee social organization for owners and riders of Honda Gold Wing/Valkyrie motorcycles. Founded in 1977, GWRRA has grown to more than 80,000 U.S., Canadian and international members in 53 foreign countries in just 32 years. Over 800 active Chapters are managed by 4,000 volunteer leaders working with members to foster safe, enjoyable riding while also working to improve the public image of motorcycling.

Central Iowa Welcomes Wing Ding 32

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:58:23 CST

For more information contact: Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
Direct: (515) 699-3433
Cell: (515) 491-9350
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

DES MOINES, IA - The public is invited to Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino to welcome the Gold Wing Road Riders Association's (GWRRA) Wing Ding 32 into Greater Des Moines on Tuesday, June 29 at 6 p.m. The Wing Ding Welcome Party is free.

Six live horse races dedicated to Wing Ding 32 will be followed by live entertainment from The Rivieras at the Finish Line Lounge at 8 p.m. Tim Fox, KIOA 93.3 radio host, will emcee the event.

"We're proud to welcome this group into Greater Des Moines for the first time," said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. "Kicking off the week's festivities at Prairie Meadows is the perfect way to begin, showing this group the great hospitality of Greater Des Moines."

For additional information on Wing Ding 32, including parade routes, road closures and community involvement, visit www.SeeDesMoines.com/WingDing.

Wing Ding 32 VIP Area
A reserved VIP area exclusively for Wing Ding attendees' access will offer free ice cream, Iowa sweet corn and an opportunity to meet jockeys, handicapper and trainers.

**Media are welcome to attend this event and take photos of the Wing Ding Welcome Party and the Wing Ding attendees' exclusive VIP area.**

Wing Ding 32 Overview
GWRRA's Wing Ding 32 is expected to bring 11,000 to 14,000 attendees into Greater Des Moines for the event which runs June 30-July 3, 2010. This is the first time Greater Des Moines is hosting Wing Ding.

About Gold Wing Road Riders Association
The Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) is the world's largest single-marquee social organization for owners and riders of Honda Gold Wing/Valkyrie motorcycles. Founded in 1977, GWRRA has grown to more than 80,000 U.S., Canadian and international members in 53 foreign countries in just 32 years. Over 800 active Chapters are managed by 4,000 volunteer leaders working with members to foster safe, enjoyable riding while also working to improve the public image of motorcycling.

Iowa State University Selected to Host 2013 NCAA Division 1 Wrestling Championships at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 17:48:15 CST

For more information contact: Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
Direct: (515) 699-3433
Cell: (515) 491-9350
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

Des Moines, IA - The NCAA Division I Wrestling Committee announced Friday, June 25 that Iowa State University has been selected to host the 2013 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA. The NCAA Committee also awarded the 2014 Wrestling Championship to Oklahoma City, OK.

The Des Moines Local Organizing Committee (LOC) spent nearly two years working through the bid process, with input from the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Area Sports Commission, Iowa State University, the Big 12 Conference, Global Spectrum, and Polk County.

"Booking this event was truly a collaborative effort and one that the whole community can now celebrate," said Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB). "We're proud to continue bringing quality events into Greater Des Moines to benefit the local economy."

"We are thrilled that the NCAA Championship is coming back to Central Iowa and to Wells Fargo Arena for the first time," Iowa State athletics director Jamie Pollard said. "This was a joint effort between Iowa State, Polk County, the Big 12, the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, and Global Spectrum to bring this great event back to our state for the first time since 2001. Iowa State hosted the first NCAA Championship in Ames in 1928 and this will be the eighth time that ISU has hosted the event. Iowa State wrestling fans and our Cyclone wrestling student-athletes and fans of the sport throughout our state are the biggest winners in this successful NCAA bid."

While this will be the first time NCAA Champions are crowned inside Wells Fargo Arena, it's not the first time the NCAA has held successful events in Des Moines. In 2008, the Division I Women's Basketball first and second rounds were hosted at Wells Fargo Arena, and the 2008 NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships was hosted at Drake Stadium, with return trips scheduled for 2011 and 2012.

"This is another example of a major event again putting Des Moines on the map with sports enthusiasts," said Al Lorenzen, Vice President of Sports and Development with the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, an organization under the GDMCVB umbrella. "This showcases our community's commitment to health and wellness."

Des Moines has become a city known for executing high level sporting events in previous years, including the AAU Junior Olympics, Drake Relays, USA Track and Field Championships, High School State Wrestling Championships and the World Disc Golf Championships. When Polk County officials made the decision to build Wells Fargo Arena, events like this were on the list of those they hoped to attract.

"Showcasing the NCAA Wrestling Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena is exactly the type of national event that was envisioned for the Iowa Events Center since it was first conceived. This event will provide a huge economic development impact and allow us to share with thousands more all that Des Moines and Polk County have to offer," stated Polk County Supervisor Angela Connolly.

"This is a tremendous accomplishment for everyone in the State of Iowa," said Global Spectrum's Matt Homan, General Manager of Wells Fargo Arena. "We look forward to exceeding the NCAA's expectations for the 2013 Wrestling Championships and providing a first-class facility and city for wrestling fans to enjoy."

Wells Fargo Arena Press Contact:
Adam Flack, Wells Fargo Arena
515-418-2618 cell
515-564-8031 office
aflack@iowaeventscenter.com

Iowa State University Athletics Press Contact:
Tom Kroeschell
515-294-3372
tkroesch@iastate.edu

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau/Des Moines Area Sports Commission:
Tiffany Tauscheck
515-699-3433
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

Iowans Asked to Welcome Up to 14,000 Wing Ding 32 Attendees

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:34:16 CST

DES MOINES, IA - Iowans are encouraged to support an event that the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) has been working to secure for 15 years. The Gold Wing Road Riders Association's Wing Ding 32 is rolling into Greater Des Moines for the first time. The event runs June 30-July 3, 2010 with a tradeshow, demonstrations and No-Zone Trailer being based on 5th Street and in the parking lot north of Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Downtown Des Moines.

The public is encouraged to attend the following events:

Wing Ding 32 Welcome Party, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Tuesday, June 29, 6-8 p.m., Free.
Light Parade, Historic Valley Junction, Thursday, July 1, 9:30 p.m., Free.
Wing Ding 32 Tradeshow, Friday, July 2, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Locals receive $5 off admission.
Grand Parade, Downtown Des Moines to Urbandale High School, Friday, July 2, 5:30 p.m., Free.

Free, printable "Welcome" signs are available at www.SeeDesMoines.com/WingDing. Locals can post these signs in their business or hold them while watching one of the parades.

"Community involvement and support is vital, especially with a group like this," said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. "It's a very visible group and the more they feel welcomed by locals, the more likely Greater Des Moines could host Wing Ding again in the future."

For additional information on Wing Ding 32, including parade routes and road closures, visit www.SeeDesMoines.com/WingDing.

Wing Ding 32 Overview
GWRRA's Wing Ding 32 is expected to bring 11,000 to 14,000 attendees into Greater Des Moines for the event which runs June 30-July 3, 2010. This is the first time Greater Des Moines is hosting Wing Ding.

About Gold Wing Road Riders Association
The Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) is the world's largest single-marquee social organization for owners and riders of Honda Gold Wing/Valkyrie motorcycles. Founded in 1977, GWRRA has grown to more than 80,000 U.S., Canadian and international members in 53 foreign countries in just 32 years. Over 800 active Chapters are managed by 4,000 volunteer leaders working with members to foster safe, enjoyable riding while also working to improve the public image of motorcycling.

Des Moines Hosts Junior Olympic Archery Development National Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 15:45:58 CST

Junior Olympic Archery Development - A Program of USA Archery
Contact: Diane Watson, JOAD National Coordinator
(727) 389-3264
dwatson@usarchery.org

Event Will Also Select U.S. Archers for Youth Olympic Games in Singapore

Des Moines, IA – The Cownie Soccer Complex in Des Moines will be home to a new group of young athletes this weekend: archers aged 8-20, from across the United States, competing for the title of Junior Olympic Archery Development National Champion, at the Easton JOAD National Championships.

Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD) is a program of USA Archery, the National Governing Body for the Olympic sport of archery in the United States. JOAD clubs are located across the country, and offer young people the chance to learn the sport of archery in a group setting, and the opportunity to compete in state, local and national tournaments. Registrations for this year’s Easton JOAD National Championships are indicative of strong growth in the national JOAD program, with over 200 archers expected to compete this weekend.

The competition, in addition to determining the JOAD National Champion, also serves as a primary qualifying tournament for those hoping to be part of the Junior United States Archery Team, and, new in 2010, also serves as the selection event to determine the one girl and one boy who will represent the United States at the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore this August.

“It’s wonderful to see young archers from all over the United States coming together to compete,” states Denise Parker, USA Archery CEO. “With the first-ever Youth Olympic Games Trials as part of this event, it promises to be an exciting weekend.”

This weekend’s tournament will open with a practice day on Thursday, June 24, for all competitors, followed that afternoon by the Youth Olympic Games Qualification Round, which will rank archers according to their score. The top four boys and top four girls attempting to qualify for the Youth Olympic Games will then shoot head to head matches later in the weekend.

On Friday, June 25, archers of all ages will shoot 72 arrows for score, the first half of their qualification round for the weekend. That afternoon, archers will take to the field once again for Team Rounds, during which shooters will work as part of a team in a fun and fast-paced competition to determine the top team for each age and gender group.

On Saturday, all archers will shoot their final 72 arrows, the overall score of which will determine their seeding for elimination rounds. On Saturday afternoon, those participating in the Youth Olympic Games selection event will also participate in exciting match play, which will narrow the field to the single girl and boy who will represent the United States at the Youth Olympic Games. Sunday is the final day of JOAD National Championships, during which all archers will participate in elimination matches, using the same format used in the Olympic games, to determine the JOAD National Champions in each age group.

USA Archery and the JOAD Program extend thanks to the city of Des Moines and its Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as to the Des Moines Sports Commission, for their assistance with this event. For more information on USA Archery and on Junior Olympic Archery Development, visit usarchery.org.

Athletes, Artists, Motorcycles and Hot Rods Roll into Greater Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 18:37:39 CST

For more information contact: Tiffany Tauscheck
Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau
Direct: (515) 699-3433
Cell: (515) 491-9350
ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com

DES MOINES, IA - The next 14 days are expected to bring an estimated 311,000 attendees out to four major events, including: USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, Des Moines Arts Festival, Gold Wing Road Riders Association Wing Ding 32 and Goodguys Heartland Rod and Custom Nationals.

These four events are expected to create at least $12.8 million economic impact on Greater Des Moines. Each event is estimated to contribute the following in economic impact:

USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, June 23-27, 2010 - $4.5 million
Des Moines Arts Festival, June 25-27, 2010 - $2.3 million

Gold Wing Road Riders Association Wing Ding 32, June 30-July 3, 2010 - $4 million
Goodguys Heartland Rod and Custom Nationals, July 2-4, 2010 - $2 million

By the end of June Greater Des Moines' major events and conventions will have seen over 600,000 attendees. The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau can account for 50,000 room nights in June 2010.

"June is the strongest month of the year on our books," said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. "We're proud to play a role in welcoming visitors into Greater Des Moines and creating additional business for our hotels, attractions, restaurants and area businesses."

For additional information on these events, or any other convention or event, visit SeeDesMoines.com/Events.

Final 80/35 Lineup Announcement

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:20:55 CST

Nearly A Billion More Bands.
Okay, not exactly a billion explosive acts, but so many that we've lost count. Let's start with the addition of Zola Jesus, Saturday July 3. An opera-trained singer with bruising vocals set against lo-fi instrumentals-you're just going to have to hear her to believe her. Then, put on your dancing pants for the blues/rock folk/pop of Chicago's own Califone, Sunday July 4.

What's this? A third stage?
As if the previous 30-some bands weren't enough, we're going to go ahead and blast your socks off with an additional stage full to brimming with supercharged DJs and high performance hip-hop acts. We shall spin until we can spin no more.From the top:

Saturday, July 3
Flatform
Tripp Marxx
Adapt
Mustafa Avdic
El Guante
Tim Grimes
W.A.S.T.E.L.A.N.D.S.
St. Paul Slim
Oz and Dave Leo

Sunday, July 4
Cleo's Apartment
Guerilla Hustle
DJ Diverse
Gadema & Richie Daggers
Kanser
Raj w/ Leeman on percussion
Maxilla Blue
Qwel
Brad Goldman & Mimic

Tickets: Don't put it off any longer.
We have it on good authority that even the worst procrastinators are now beginning to purchase their tickets for 80/35. That means the best procrastinators are next. As we mentioned earlier, we just added a billion new bands. So, you should probably just go to midwestix.com now.

VIP passes $175
Two-day passes $60
One-day passes $35
Buy now at midwestix.com

Be a part of the magic.
80/35 is a great fest put on by great people for other great people. To be part of greatness, sign up here to volunteer. You'll get a free ticket to the fest. You'll meet a lot of fun people. And you'll get a free t-shirt. If that's not magic we don't know what is.

The FINAL 2010 80/35 Lineup!
Saturday, July 3
Spoon
Slightly Stoopid
Yo La Tengo
Particle
Holly Golightly & The Brokeoffs
William Elliott Whitmore
Earl Greyhound
Solid Gold
Zola Jesus
Canby
Cashes Rivers
Psalm One
Omega Dog
Modern Day Satire
Flatform
Tripp Marxx
St. Paul Slim
Oz and Dave Leo
Adapt
Mustafa Avdic
El Guante
Tim Grimes
W.A.S.T.E.L.A.N.D.S.

Sunday, July 4
Modest Mouse
Railroad Earth
The Cool Kids
The Walkmen
The Heavy
Dar Williams
Avi Buffalo
Evangelicals
Sara Watkins
Dawes
Califone
Family Groove Company
Christopher the Conquered
The Workshy
Maxilla Blue
Qwel
Brad Goldman & Mimic
Cleo's Apartment
Guerilla Hustle
DJ Diverse
Gadema & Richie Daggers
Kanser
Raj w/ Leeman on percussion

Buy tickets!!

80/35 is organized by the volunteers of the Greater Des Moines Music Coalition and is made possible by the support of U.S. Cellular, Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Kum & Go, Olde Main Brewing Co., Meredith Corporation, Mediacom, Prairie Meadows, Avoid the Stork, American Trust, WHO-TV, Dahls Foods, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Jasper Winery, Metro Waste Authority, Soulflower, Saturday Mfg., On Pitch, Sheer Focus, Lava Row, and Young Professionals Connection. The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines is a founding partner of 80/35.

Learn more about the Greater Des Moines Music Coalition and become a member at desmoinesmc.com.

Taste Iowa flavors at the first Vines, Steins and Stills Fest

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 10 May 2010 18:56:41 CST

Make your plans to taste the best wines, beers and spirits from across the state of Iowa. Vines, Steins and Stills: A Celebration of the Iowa Spirit Industry is happening on May 22nd at Festival
Park, located at Sleepy Hollow, from Noon – 8 PM. This one-day event will offer patrons a chance to try
wine, beer and liquor from 25 wineries, breweries, and a distillery, all of which are made right here in
Iowa.

Tickets for the event are $20. Wine will be available by the bottle or by the glass. Beer will be sold by the glass. Each patron will get a sampling card to keep track of what they have tried and to jot down notes.

Each vendor will be on hand to answer questions about their product. In addition to the 26 beverage
vendors, there will also be food vendors.

The Tony Valdez Large Band will headline the live music portion of the event from 6 PM – 8 PM.
Openers include the Princemen (1 PM – 3 PM) and Comfort Zone (3:30 PM – 5:30).

The event is sponsored in part by the Iowa Wine Growers Association and WHO-DT, the NBC affiliate in
Des Moines.

Wineries
Ardon Creek, Cedar Valley, Fireside, Grape Escape, Heartland Harvest, Jasper Winery, Park Farm,
Penoach, Rosey Acres, Snus Hill, Stone Cliff, Summerset, Two Saints, Whispering Pines, Winneshiek
Wildberry Winery

Breweries
Granite City, Madhouse, Millstream, Old Man River, Olde Main, Peace Tree, Raccoon River

Distilleries
Cedar Ridge

Food
Food will be available with our regular food vendors, including: The Bavarian Café, Amos’ Fabulous
Foods, Humphrey’s Concessions, Two Wenches Chocolate Shop, Off With Your Bread, DJ’s Pizza, plus
buffalo burgers, smoothies, homemade root beer, ice cream and more.

Shuttle Service
Sleepy Hollow will be offering a shuttle to several hotels as well as to and from downtown during the
festival.

Websites
vssfest.com
iowawinegrowers.org
whotv.com
iowabeer.org

Please call Max at Sleepy Hollow for interviews and photos. He may be reached at (515) 402-3417.

Scott Koch Recognized as a Certified Sports Event Executive

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 05 May 2010 12:31:07 CST

Scott Koch, Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) Senior Sales Manager, is now a Certified Sports Event Executive (CSEE). This prestigious, national program and training is only available to National Association of Sports Commissions members.

The program includes continuing education to provide participants with cutting edge knowledge to increase their efficiency and effectiveness in the sports event industry while enabling them to earn the designation of CSEE. Koch is one of 85 new graduates of this program.

Koch has been with the DMASC, serving under the umbrella of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), since August of 2004. In his position, he recruits sporting events to the area to help create economic impact.

Prior to joining the DMASC, Koch attended graduate school at Florida State University while working for both their athletic department and men's basketball team. He received his master's degree from Florida State University in Sports Administration and Marketing and Sports Management degrees from Iowa State University.

Koch is an Urbandale native and now lives in West Des Moines.

New Greater Des Moines Gift Card Program Launches

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 17:51:37 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is unveiling a new gift card today. The Greater Des Moines MasterCard® Gift Card is sponsored by Liberty Bank. The MasterCard gift card works like any other gift card and is available in any denomination between $10 and $2,999. A $1 surcharge will be added to each individual gift card purchase. No other fees apply.

"We're pleased to collaborate with the GDMCVB on this new Greater Des Moines Gift Card," said Linda Patterson, Liberty Bank Vice President, Marketing Communications Manager. "Together, we were able to establish a program that allows visitors and locals to give the gift of experiencing all Greater Des Moines has to offer."

Gift cards can be purchased at the GDMCVB office in Capital Square, 400 Locust Street, Suite 265 in Downtown Des Moines during regular business hours, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Gift cards may also be purchased anytime online at SeeDesMoines.com/giftcard.

A list of suggested Greater Des Moines attractions, hotels and restaurants is included on the website. While it is highly recommended that the gift cards are redeemed in Greater Des Moines, as a MasterCard gift card it may be used anywhere MasterCard is accepted nationwide. The gift card can not be used at ATMs to trade in for cash.

This card is issued by MetaBank,™ pursuant to a license from MasterCard International Incorporated. MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated.

NASCO 2010 Conference in Iowa to Feature Tri-National Trade Transport Leaders & Visionaries

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 17:41:53 CST

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, leading strategic regional development visionary Michael Gallis, and noted U.S.-Canada relations authority Chris Sands of the Hudson Institute, and a host of specialized experts on trade and transportation will join together in Des Moines June 15 to 17 for the 2010 NASCO Conference focused on transportation solutions for the 21st Century.

NASCO has tentative confirmation of participation by The Hon. John Baird, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities of Canada and confirmed participation by Juan Francisco Molinar Horcasitas, Mexico’s Secretary of Communications and Transportation, making the event one of the rare gatherings of the continent’s top three officials over multi-modal transportation in North America.

The cabinet members will review their respective government’s plans for keeping congested urban areas passable to support the again growing trade happening on the continent. Canada is the U.S.’ No. 1 trading partner. The U.S.-Canada trade is the largest between any two nations on earth. Mexico is the No. 3 U.S. trade partner, ranking behind only China.

Key event sponsors include Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations; Prairie Meadows; Trinity Industries, Inc.; Principal Financial Group; Wells Fargo; and Ruan Transport Corp. Host committee includes Iowa State Government; Polk County; the City of Des Moines; the Iowa state departments of economic development and transportation; the Greater Des Moines Metropolitan Planning Organization; the Greater Des Moines Partnership; the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau; and the Des Moines International Airport. For information and to register visit nascoiowa2010.com.

The NASCO Conference will offer extraordinary updates on the economy of North America from several leading financial institutions and economists with roots in Iowa. One panel discussion also will highlight outstanding executives of the U.S. Midwest’s rising alternative and renewable energy industry and their views on the prospects for the new, high-tech, clean-energy opportunities and jobs of the future.

Conference attendees also will be among the first to hear preliminary results of a landmark Sustainable Freight Transportation in North America research effort by the Commission for Environmental Cooperation of North America (CEC), the Montreal, Canada-based institution formed by the side agreement on the environment to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Highlights of this milestone study will be presented publicly for the first time at the NASCO Conference. The baseline study will outline freight transport impacts on air quality and harmful air emissions in North America as well as highlight public policy best options for governments to lead the way to a cleaner, more sustainable freight transport industry in North America.

“NASCO is working hard to support its members’ efforts along the NASCO Corridor to take full advantage of the economic recovery now underway,” said Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie. “As a major crossroads for domestic and international trade, Des Moines believes in the importance of this mission; and we are extremely proud to host the 2010 NASCO Conference.”

NASCO’s annual conference is unique. It rotates between the U.S., Canada and Mexico each year. NASCO member communities host the event in collaboration with many agencies from across their state or province. The 2010 NASCO Conference marks the first conference in Iowa or the upper Midwest. NASCO is excited to showcase the Iowa business community.

The 2010 NASCO Conference: Moving North America Forward conference of North America’s SuperCorridor Coalition, Inc. (NASCO) enters its sixth year with a dynamic program to closely examine the greatest challenges to continuing growth in trade and transportation through the heartland of North America. The conference will highlight the brightest opportunities to reignite cross-border trade and to streamline secure freight transport between businesses and consumers in the three North American nations allied in commerce on the NASCO Corridor.

For more information on NASCO visit nascocorridor.com.

Des Moines Recognized as Track Central USA

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:20:05 CST

Greater Des Moines has a long and storied legacy as a track and field destination. That legacy is being honored and solidified for generations to come with the unveiling of Track Central USA.

With the $15 million renovation of Drake Stadium in 2006, Drake University and Greater Des Moines have become a mecca in hosting high caliber track and field events in the United States.

In addition to serving as home of the Drake Relays, with more than 100 years of rich tradition, Greater Des Moines and Drake University, have hosted the 2007 NCAA Midwest Regional Outdoor Track and Field Championship, the 2008 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship and more recently the 2009 AAU Junior Olympics.

Drake University and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) will combine efforts in hosting the 2010 USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships at Drake Stadium June 23-27. Drake was also awarded the 2011 and 2012 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

Track Central USA is a comprehensive branding strategy that will forever change the fan experience at future track and field events in Greater Des Moines. The DMASC, an organization under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, and Drake University are proud to make this collaborative announcement.

The cornerstone of this exciting new initiative is an innovative and interactive Track Central USA Fan Zone adjacent to Drake Stadium. This area will include interactive video kiosks, a “hands on” track and field exhibit space, an area designated for fitness/wellness, a stage for athlete interaction, improved merchandise exhibit area, food and other vendors.

“One hundred years of the Drake Relays and our success in recent years landing and hosting world class track and field events has cemented our place in the world of track and field. The Track Central USA initiative allows us to take it to the next level as we pursue the Olympic Trials for track and field in the future,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “Our community, with the guidance and leadership of Drake University’s Athletic Department, continues to gain nationwide attention as a premiere track and field destination. Track Central USA and the Track Central USA Fan Zone capture the essence of our commitment to track and field in Greater Des Moines.”

"Drake University, in partnership with the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, is excited to unveil the Track Central USA Fan Zone at Drake Stadium," said Drake Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb. "This project will build on a well established track and field tradition and has tremendous synergy with other initiatives within our department focused on enhancing the fan experience."

National Pheasant Fest Leaves Economic Impact on Greater Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:15:14 CST

Des Moines hosted the 2010 National Pheasant Fest over the weekend, drawing 20,230 attendees to the area. The overall economic impact of the event was $1.3 million.

“Anytime we can host large events like National Pheasant Fest, Greater Des Moines benefits,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President/CEO Greg Edwards.

The event has brought more than 20,000 attendees to the area, both in 2007 and 2010. Plans to secure this event for 2012, 2014 and 2015 are currently underway.

National Pheasant Fest is the country’s largest event for upland hunters, sport dog owners and wildlife habitat conservationists. For more information, visit PheasantFest.org.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Winners Announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 22:33:24 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) has announced its first winners of the Central Iowa Sports Awards, recognizing athletic excellence with honor in 2009. The winners were named Sunday, February 21, 2010 at The Meadows, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona.

Central Iowa Sports Awards have been awarded to the following:
High School

Female Athlete of the Year: Katie Flood, Dowling Cross Country
Male Athlete of the Year: Harrison Barnes, Ames Basketball
Play of the Year: Morgan Hoeg, Waukee, Walk-off Homerun against Valley
Game of the Year: Marshalltown Football, Marshalltown vs. Dowling
Team of the Year: Dowling Catholic Cross Country

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year: Alison Lacey, Iowa State Basketball
Male Athlete of the Year: Craig Brackins, Iowa State Basketball
Play of the Year: Jesse Smith, Iowa State Football, Interception vs. Nebraska
Game of the Year: Iowa State University Football, Iowa State University vs. Nebraska
Team of the Year: Drake University Men’s Soccer

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year: Justin Hartwig, Pittsburg Steelers
Event of the Year: Nationwide NASCAR Race

Lifetime Achievement

Jim Williams, Dowling Football

Video of the awards banquet will air on Mediacom Connections Channel 22 on a date that is still to be determined. Photos will appear on DesMoinesSports.com in March.

Central Iowans cast their votes for individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009, within a 75-mile radius of Principal Park. The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee reviewed the nominees and asked the public to vote for their top choices via the DMASC website in early February. From those votes, the Honor Committee named the above winners.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Tickets Now on Sale

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:23:45 CST

Tickets to the first Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) Central Iowa Sports Awards banquet are now available.

Central Iowans have cast their votes for individuals and teams who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009, within a 75-mile radius of Principal Park. The award winners will be named this Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. at The Meadows, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino in Altoona. Tickets are available for $85 per seat, or $750 for a table of 10 at DesMoinesSports.com.

Central Iowa Sports Awards will be awarded in the following categories:

High School

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year
Male Athlete of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year
Team of the Year

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
Event of the Year

Lifetime Achievement

To find more information, including the list of nominees and complete official rules, visit DesMoinesSports.com.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

The Des Moines Playhouse Presents

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:44:54 CST

The Kate Goldman Children's Theatre at The Des Moines Playhouse continues its 15th season with "The Boxcar Children," February 26-March 14. Tickets may be purchased at The Playhouse ticket office, by phone at (515) 277-6261 and online at dmplayhouse.com.

"The Boxcar Children" is based on the book by Gertrude Chandler Warner. Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden are suddenly orphaned when a tragic boating accident kills their parents. Fearful that they will be separated, they flee from the authorities and find refuge in an abandoned boxcar.

"The Boxcar Children" cast of 11 features Sam Bates-Norum, Darby Elliott, Emily Frett, and Jones Pfeifer as the Alden children. The show is directed by Kathy Pingel ("Annie").

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information about The Playhouse and "The Boxcar Children" contact The Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261.

"The Boxcar Children" Performances: February 26-March 14, 2010

7 p.m. Friday
1 p.m. Saturday
1 and 4 p.m. Sunday (1 p.m. only Sunday, March 14)

"The Boxcar Children" Tickets available through The Playhouse box office, 831 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA
50312; by phone at (515) 277-6261; and online at dmplayhouse.com.

$15 Adult/Senior
$12 Student

Group reservations for groups of 15 or more should be made by calling (515) 255-3741 ext. 211 or toll-free (877) 862-5621 ext. 211.

The Black Eyed Peas Announce Ludacris to Join World Tour

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:55:25 CST

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR MARCH 25 CONCERT AT WELLS FARGO ARENA IN DES MOINES

(Santa Monica, CA) Three-time Grammy Award winning recording artist, The Black Eyed Peas announced today that Ludacris will be joining opening act LMFAO on their highly anticipated world tour. Described as the ultimate Black Eyed Peas party experience, it also marks the first time that the group – will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie – is united for a North American headline tour since their 2006 Monkey Business world tour.

Tickets for the March 25 stop at Wells Fargo Arena are on sale now exclusively through the Wells Fargo Arena Box Office, all Dahl's Foods locations, online at dahlstickets.com, or charge by phone 866-55-DAHLS. The Black Eyed Peas, who are nominated for six Grammy Awards including Album Of The Year for THE E.N.D. and Record of The Year for “I Gotta Feeling”, will perform Sunday night, January 31 at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards live on CBS.

2009 was a monumental year for The Black Eyed Peas, starting with the March release of “Boom Boom Pow” – not only the group's first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 but one of the top dozen or so longest-charting singles in Hot 100 history, 12 weeks at the top. They bumped themselves out of #1 with their second single, “I Gotta Feeling” (released in June), surpassing their own success with a 14-week stay at #1 (only the fourth group in Hot 100 history to replace itself at #1). Their 26 consecutive week run at #1 has now become a new all-time benchmark in Hot 100 history (for groups or solo artists).

Meanwhile, flush with three massive hit singles, The E.N.D. (released June 2, 2009) debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart with the highest first-week sales of The Black Eyed Peas' career. The E.N.D. has sold over 5.2 million cds worldwide. The fourth single, “Imma Be” is climbing the charts at Top 40 radio and is top 5 on the iTunes chart.

Chris "Ludacris" Bridges is a celebrated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Ludacris has sold over 20 million albums worldwide with each release being certified platinum or multi-platinum by the RIAA. His upcoming album, Battle of The Sexes, is set to be released March 16, 2010. To date, he has won three Grammy Awards (including Best Rap Album for Release Therapy) and appeared in two Academy Award-winning films. In addition to his creative endeavors and business ventures, Ludacris serves as Chairman and CEO of The Ludacris Foundation, an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to helping young people achieve their dreams through the encouragement of "Principles of Success."

Zipflbop World Series Race Brings European Competitors to Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 16:22:18 CST

Sleepy Hollow and the Des Moines Winter Games are proud to announce one of their newest events, the Zipflbop World Series Race.

The race, taking place Saturday, February 6, will showcase over 40 competitors from Europe and the United States. The race is open to anyone to compete. The complete race schedule is as follows:

Friday, February 5
6 p.m. - Registration - Registration is $15
7 p.m. - Family Races - get your family team together and compete against other family teams - the family with the most points wins.

Saturday, February 6
9 a.m. - Registration
10 a.m. - Amateur races - open to anyone
1 p.m. - World Series Race - open to anyone

The Zipflfbop World Series Race at Sleepy Hollow will be the first ever on US soil. Competitors will be able to compete in two races while in the US, as Sleepy Hollow has partnered with Sunburst Mountain in Wisconsin to provide a second race the following weekend. Other stops include Germany, Sweden, Italy and Austria.

We also received word that the current World Champion, Paul Steinbach, will be traveling to the US to compete in the event at Sleepy Hollow.

For more information on the World Series of Zipflbop visit zipflbop.net, or call Max at (515) 262.4100. For more info on the Des Moines Winter Games visit dmwintergames.com.

H1N1 Flu Shots at the Airport

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:27:08 CST

Des Moines International Airport (DSM) officials are announcing that H1N1 flu shots will soon be available at the Airport. The seasonal flu shots will also be back during this time.

Wesley Community Services representatives, in partnership with the Polk County Health Department, will administer the shots in the lower level of the Airport Terminal. The H1N1 shots are free. The seasonal shots are $20. Everyone over the age of six months is eligible to receive H1N1. You do not need to be a resident of Polk County.

Here is the schedule:

Monday-Tuesday-Thursday-Friday: 5:30-7:30 a.m. & 1-4:30 p.m.

January 18 through January 29

Visit dsmairport.com for Des Moines International Airport info.

Nominees Named for Central Iowa Sports Awards

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:49:46 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), an organization under the Greater
Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, has announced the nominees for the first Central Iowa Sports Awards. The awards recognize those who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009. Activities must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park and occurred during the 2009 calendar year.

Online voting of nominees is taking place now through February 4, 2010. The award winners will be named on February 21, 2010. More information and complete official rules are available at DesMoinesSports.com.

Central Iowa Sports Awards Nominees in:

High School

Female Athlete of the Year
- Amanda Zimmerman: Ballard of Huxley Basketball
- Jordan Gronewold: Carlisle Basketball
- Katie Flood: Nike Cross Country National Champion
- Miranda Leek: Youth World Archery Championships
- Sammy Snygg: North Polk Softball
Male Athlete of the Year
- Chanse Creekmur: Marshalltown Football
- Charlie Caris: Roosevelt Tennis
- Harrison Barnes: Ames Basketball
- John Meeks: Roosevelt Wrestling
- Louis Dalany Wickett: Madrid Football
- Matthew Phillip Dermody: Norwalk, Four-Sport Athlete
Play of the Year
- Chanse Creekmur to Jared Carlson: Marshalltown, Defeats Dowling in Football State Semifinals
- Harrison Barnes: Ames, Dunk in State Championship
- Morgan Hoeg walk off homerun: Waukee, Defeats Valley in Softball State Semifinals
Game of the Year
- Ames versus Linn Mar: Boys Basketball State 4A Championship
- Ames versus Linn Mar: Girls Basketball 4A Semifinals
- Earlham Softball versus Newell-Fonda: 1A State Softball
- Marshalltown versus Dowling: 4A State Football Semifinals
- Waukee versus Valley: State Softball Semifinals
Team of the Year
- Ames: Boys Basketball
- Ankeny: Volleyball
- Ballard of Huxley: Girls Basketball
- Ballard of Huxley: Wrestling
- Dowling Catholic: Cross Country
- Earlham: Softball
- Johnston: Softball
- Marshalltown: Football
- Norwalk: Baseball
- Roosevelt: Boys Tennis
- Roosevelt: Wrestling
- Southern Cal: Football
- Waukee: Track & Field

College/University

Female Athlete of the Year
- Allison Lacey: Iowa State Basketball, Elite 8
- Kaylee Manns: Iowa State Volleyball, Sweet 16, NCAA All-American
- Lisa Koll: Iowa State Cross Country and Track & Field
Male Athlete of the Year
- Craig Brackins: Iowa State Basketball
- Garrett Webb: Drake Soccer, NCAA All-American
- Jake Varner: Iowa State Wrestling, NCAA Champion
- Titus Bland: Grand View University Football, 1st Team NAIA All-American
Play of the Year
- Jesse Smith’s Interception: Iowa State Football
- Luke Gorzyca’s Shot: Drake Soccer
Game of the Year
- Drake versus Boston College: Soccer
- Iowa State versus Michigan State: Women’s Basketball
- Iowa State versus Nebraska: Football
- Iowa State versus Nebraska: Volleyball
Team of the Year
- Central College: Football
- Drake: Men’s Soccer
- Iowa State: Volleyball
- Iowa State: Women’s Basketball

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
- Brett Moffitt: NASCAR (17-year-old Johnston student)
- Justin Hartwig: Pittsburgh Steelers
- Michael Annett: NASCAR
- Terry McCarl: Knoxville Nationals
- Zach Johnson: PGA
Event of the Year
- Dam to Dam: Iowa’s Distance Classic
- First Nationwide NASCAR Race at Iowa Speedway
- Hy-Vee Triathlon
- Knoxville Nationals
- Principal Charity Classic

Lifetime Achievement

Coach Tom Davis: University of Iowa, Drake University
Deb Stetson: Roosevelt Tennis
Jim Williams: Dowling Football
Randy Hinkel: Madrid Football

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

Civic Center ranks 17th in Ticket Sales

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:10:05 CST

Surpassing theaters in the Midwest and around the world, the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines recently ranked 17th in the January 11, 2010 edition of Pollstar magazine’s annual list of the top 100 worldwide theater venues. The #17 position - based on 2009 ticket sales of 208,645 - puts the Civic Center ahead of all other Midwest theaters in the ranking, including St. Louis’ Fabulous Fox Theatre (#23), Chicago’s Chicago Theatre (#28) and Minneapolis’ Orpheum Theatre (#38).

“This ranking is a testament to the remarkable support Iowans have for professional theater,” said Jeff Chelesvig, Civic Center President and CEO. “Thanks to their patronage, the CivicCenter outranked theaters in cities with much higher populations - including London, England;Dublin, Ireland; and Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.”

The Civic Center’s 2009 lineup included Broadway hits such as WICKED, SPRING AWAKENING and LEGALLY BLONDE, special events such as the Smart Talk Connected Conversations and sell-out concerts like James Taylor and A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor. Shows on the 2010 schedule include DISNEY’S THE LION KING (now playing), JERSEY BOYS, AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY and RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S SOUTH PACIFIC.

Mexico City’s Auditorio Nacional theater ranked first in Pollstar’s annual listing, followed by New York City’s Radio City Music Hall in second place and Atlanta’s Fox Theatre in third place.

More Than 100 Miles of Options for New Year�s Resolution-Makers

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:38:12 CST

Those looking for further motivation to live a healthier life, now have a new tool to help them find their way throughout Greater Des Moines’ trails.

A new Greater Des Moines Recreational Trails Map and Downtown Recreation Trails Map are now available, just in time for 2010 New Year’s resolutions. The maps are courtesy of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Iowa Health – Des Moines, the Friends of Des Moines Parks and the City of Des Moines Park and Recreation Department.

The new maps highlight all of the area walking, biking and running trails throughout Greater Des Moines and Downtown. The maps also pinpoint public art, further demonstrating Greater Des Moines’ commitment to arts and culture to locals and visitors.

There will be 50,000 copies of the maps distributed to area hotels, the Information Kiosk at the Des Moines International Airport, GDMCVB office, Iowa Health – Des Moines hospitals – which include Iowa Methodist, Iowa Lutheran, Blank Children’s Hospital and Methodist West Hospital, Des Moines City Hall Information Desk, Greater Des Moines libraries and various outdoor enthusiast shops before Spring. The maps are available for download immediately at www.SeeDesMoines.com/trails.

“We’re proud to offer this first-ever comprehensive trails map highlighting our communities’ public art,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “Our visitors tell us they enjoy exploring our parks and trails. This map helps visitors and locals experience Greater Des Moines’ unique trails system, while emphasizing the importance of health and fitness.”

The maps are a collaboration between GDMCVB, Iowa Health – Des Moines and the City of Des Moines Park and Recreation Department.

About Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

About Iowa Health – Des Moines
Iowa Health – Des Moines, a subsidiary of Iowa Health System, is the largest private medical service provider in the state, averaging more than 32,000 inpatient admissions and 900,000 outpatient visits each year. It includes Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Iowa Lutheran Hospital and Blank Children’s Hospital along with more than 35 primary care physician clinics throughout central Iowa. For more information, visit iowahealth.org.

NCAA Announces Site Selections for 2011-2014 Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:47:32 CST

CONTACT:
Kristen Jacob Smith
Assistant Director of Online
Properties and Media for Championships
(317) 917-6222

The NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Track and Field Committee has selected Des Moines, Iowa for the 2011 and 2012 NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships and Eugene, Ore., for the 2013 and 2014 championships. The 2011 and 2012 championships, hosted by Drake University, will be held at Drake Stadium. The University of Oregon, who will also serve as the host for the 2010 NCAA Outdoor championships will hold the 2013 and 2014 competitions at Hayward Field.

“The committee has worked really hard over the last several months to ensure we were awarding the championship to the best sites possible,” said Holly Sheilley, chair of the Division I Men’s and Women’s Track and Field Committee and assistant athletic director for student development and championships at the University of Louisville. “Drake and Oregon have shown in the past they put on world-class meets and we are confident they will do a great job hosting our future NCAA outdoor championships. The committee felt strongly about having the championship in two different sites within the four-year period to enhance the student-athlete experience.”

“It is an honor for Drake University to host the 2011 and 2012 NCAA track and field national championships,” said Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Athletic Director at Drake. “The record attendance coupled with the positive feedback that we received for hosting the 2008 NCAA meet contributed to Drake receiving strong consideration to host future meets. Our gratitude goes out to the NCAA selection committee.”

“With the commitment from University President Richard Lariviere and Athletic Director Mike Bellotti for not only this June’s NCAA Track & Field Championships, but also for 2013 and 2014, we are poised to create a truly spectacular experience for the student-athletes, the fans and the national television audience at Hayward Field,” said University of Oregon associate athletic director Vin Lananna.

For more information on the NCAA Division I Track and Field Championships, log on to NCAA.com.

Principal Charity Classic Ranks #1 on Champions Tour

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:59:04 CST

The Champions Tour has selected The Principal Charity Classic as its "Best Event" in 2009. The announcement was recently made by Champions Tour President, Mike Stevens, at the Champions Tour Tournament Association annual awards dinner in San Antonio, Texas.

"To be recognized as the best event on the Champions Tour says a lot about the Des Moines community," said Larry Zimpleman, chairman, president and chief executive officer, the Principal Financial Group®. "In just three short years, The Principal Charity Classic has distributed nearly $1.7 million to the five "FORE our Kids" charities in Iowa and has attracted record-breaking crowds. We are thrilled to be able to bring this outstanding event, and all the benefits that come with it, to the area."

The Champions Tour annually awards its events for outstanding performances based on several categories including:

On-site presentation and staging
Community support
Attendance
Charitable impact

"Being named the number one event on the Champions Tour would not be possible without our staff, board, sponsors, fans and over 1,000 volunteers," said Jamie Alt, tournament director. In addition, The Principal Charity Classic also received two "Brassie Awards," for advertising and marketing; first place for outdoor advertisement and runner-up for Web site marketing.

The 2009 Principal Charity Classic tournament was played May 26 - May 31, 2009 at Glen Oaks Country Club in West Des Moines, Iowa.

New Awards Honor Central Iowa Athletes

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:58:26 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), an organization under the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) umbrella, has established the first-ever Central Iowa Sports Awards. The awards recognize those who have pursued athletic excellence with honor in 2009.

Awards will be presented in four categories:
High School

Male Athlete of the Year
Female Athlete of the Year
Team of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year

College/University

Male Athlete of the Year
Female Athlete of the Year
Team of the Year
Play of the Year
Game of the Year

Professional/Motorsports/Other

Athlete of the Year
Event of the Year

Lifetime Achievement

Nominations for the first Central Iowa Sports Awards can be made now through December 18, 2009 at DesMoinesSports.com. Nominees’ activities must have occurred within a 75-mile radius of home plate at Principal Park and the activities must have occurred during the 2009 calendar year. Online voting of nominees will take place from January 4, 2010 to February 4, 2010. Complete official rules are available at DesMoinesSports.com.

The Central Iowa Sports Awards’ Honor Committee is made up of: Des Moines Area Sports Commission Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen, The Des Moines Register Sports Editor Bryce Miller, ABC5 Sports Director John Walters, KCCI NewsChannel 8 Sports Director Andy Garman, WHO-TV Channel 13 Sports Director Keith Murphy, 1460 KXNO’s Ken Miller and Iowa Sports Connection’s Mike Rickord.

Brenton Skating Plaza Opens November 20th

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:06:43 CST

Brenton Skating Plaza is open 7 days a week, including Holidays! Visit brentonplaza.com for public skate hours.

Sign Up for Learn To Skate Classes and Broomball Leagues Now!

Des Moines, IA – Brenton Skating Plaza will open for its fourth season of skating on Friday, November 20, with a Free Public Skate and Free Breakfast from 6am – 9am. Breakfast is provided by the Iowa Egg Council and Gateway Market; Coffee is courtesy of Java Joe’s Coffee. And there’s something extra – Bring a non-perishable food item to help Des Moines families in need and receive a 2-for-1 Admission voucher and a Brenton Skating Plaza Ice Scraper. ‘Tis the Season!

Learn To Skate Class Registration Has Begun!
Whether you’re new to skating, brushing up, or wanting to take your skating to the next level, you’ll love our Learn To Skate classes! Enthusiastic instruction along with the outdoor panoramic view of Downtown Des Moines will make your skating lessons and experience to remember!

We teach all ages (4 and up, including Adults!) and skill levels. Our program stresses a skating environment that is exciting, rewarding, safe, and fun. Classes meet once a week for 4 weeks on Saturdays and Mondays. Detailed information below:

   Saturdays 9:25-9:55 p.m. 4 week session - $40*
   Session 1: December 5, 12, 19
   Session 2: January 9, 16, 23, 30
   Session 3: No Saturday sessions in February
   Session 4: March 6, 13, 20, 27

   Mondays 6:30-7:30 p.m. 4 week session - $60
   Session 1: December 7, 14, 21, 28
   Session 2: January 4, 11, 21, 28
   Session 3: February 1, 8, 15, 22
   Session 4: March 1, 8, 15, 22

Exclusive! Enroll online only by Thursday, November 19 and receive $10 off your Session 1 (December) class fee!

Broomball Leagues forming now!
Broomball Leagues are now forming at Brenton Skating Plaza. League play is Sundays, 8:30-10 p.m., starting December 6. Register individually or by team (12 player limit). Register online. Cost is $80 per player.

For regulation information and general questions, call (515) 284-1000 or email info@brentonplaza.com. For information on teams, rules and regulations, call Mandy at (515) 554-5805.

The Des Moines Playhouse Presents

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:33:04 CST

Leaping lizards! This holiday season, The Des Moines Playhouse presents the blockbuster Broadway musical and family favorite, "Annie." Performances are Dec. 11-27. Tickets may be purchased at The Playhouse ticket office, by phone at 515-277-6261 and online at www.dmplayhouse.com. "Annie" is
sponsored by Bankers Trust and Ruan.

Annie is a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and finds a new family and home with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. The score includes such favorites as "Hard Knock Life," "You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile," and, of course, "Tomorrow."

The "Annie" cast of 27 features newcomers Madison Barnes and Anne Teeling, alternating in the role of Annie; Greg Millar ("The Full Monty") as Daddy Warbucks; Elisabeth Ballstadt ("The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid") as Grace; and, reprising their roles from the 2000 production, Sue Tell as Miss Hannigan, Brett Spahr as Rooster, and Melissa Kellar as Lilly St. Regis. The show is directed by Kathy Pingel, with musical direction by Francine Griffith, and choroegraphy by Alison Shafer.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information about The Playhouse and "Annie" contact The Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261.

"Annie" Performances: Dec. 11-27, 2009 Dec. 11-20, 2009 times 7:30 PM Wednesday-Friday 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM Saturday & Sunday Dec. 22-27, 2009 times 7:30 PM Tuesday & Wednesday No show Thursday & Friday 1:00 PM Saturday & Sunday

"Annie" Tickets
Available through The Playhouse box office, 831 42nd St., Des Moines, IA 503132;
by phone at 515-277-6261; and online at www. dmplayhouse.com.
$35 Adult Section A / $20 Adult Section B
$32 Senior (62+) Section A / $20 Senior Section B
$20 Student
Discounts offered to Playhouse season ticket holders and group of 15+

Group reservations for groups of 15 or more should be made by calling
515-974-5358 or toll-free 1-877-862-5621 ext. 211.

GDMCVB Honors Locals Serving the Community

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:54:01 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) has been serving the community since 1908. Today the GDMCVB celebrates 101 years of serving Greater Des Moines by honoring local individuals and businesses that have helped make the last fiscal year a success.

“We were able to serve more visitors in Greater Des Moines over the last year thanks in part to the support and assistance from these organizations and community champions,” said Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “The task of facing a challenging economy is more manageable with local support. We are sincerely grateful to all whom have helped the GDMCVB during the last fiscal year.”

Fiscal Year Award Recipients

Civic Friend of Hospitality: Des Moines International Airport

Corporate Friend of Hospitality: Liberty Bank

Friend of Hospitality: Jim Miller, Historic Valley Junction

Hometown Hero: Flora Schmidt, Home Builders Association of Iowa

Legislative Friend of Hospitality: Senator Matt McCoy

Media Friend of Hospitality: David Elbert, Des Moines Register

Partner of the Year: Meredith Corporation

Spirit of the Community: Iowa Health – Des Moines

Sport Friend of Hospitality: Drake University

Volunteer of the Year: Mark Kostek, Drake University

These organizations have been recognized for their commitment to the community and the GDMCVB through various acts of generosity, volunteerism, donations and partnerships with the GDMCVB staff, clients and partners.

The GDMCVB Annual Celebration is sponsored by Merit Resources.

Friday Funday at the Playhouse

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:17:13 CST

The Des Moines Playhouse presents "Cinderella," Friday, Nov. 13. This story is part of the 2009-10 season of Friday Funday, a creative participatory story theatre program for children ages 4-6. Performances are at The Playhouse, Friday, Nov. 13, at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. Admission is $5 per person, adults and children. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling The Playhouse box office at (515) 277-6261.

November's featured story is "Cinderella." Cinderella wants to go to the ball to meet the prince, but her stepmother and stepsisters have other ideas. Maybe a silly fairy godmother will be able to help!

Join the Clubhouse at The Playhouse Gang each month, September-May, as they dramatize a favorite story using their imaginations and the costume pieces and props they find in their magic trunk. Audience members learn the Clubhouse pledge and secret handshake, and listen for the word of the day. They even help act out the story. Shows are approximately 45 minutes in length.

The 2009-10 season features a variety of stories, including "The Elves and the Shoemaker," Dec. 18; "The Three Little Pigs," Jan. 15; "The Mitten," Feb. 12; "Fin McCoul," Mar. 5; "Stone Soup," Apr. 9; and "Caps for Sale," May 14.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information on Friday Funday and other Playhouse educational offerings, contact The Playhouse education department at (515) 974-5365. For tickets to Friday Funday, contact The Playhouse box office at (515) 277-6261.

Greater Des Moines Travel Numbers Continue to Rise

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:30:57 CST

The number of visitors and travel expenditures in Greater Des Moines continues a steady climb.

In 2008, Greater Des Moines hosted more than 2.9 million visitors who spent over $1.6 billion between Polk and Dallas counties, according to the Economic Impact of Travel Study released by the Iowa Department of Economic Development’s Iowa Tourism Office. This makes up one quarter of Iowa’s $6.4 billion in travel expenditures.

“This is great news for our state and for Greater Des Moines,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President/CEO Greg Edwards. “Our team has remained committed to moving forward and booking more business in Greater Des Moines, despite the economy. We’re pleased that over the last six years our efforts have helped secure more visitor dollars flowing into our community than each prior year.”

Polk and Dallas counties have a combined growth rate of two percent in travel expenditures from 2007. Polk County travel expenditures were at nearly $1.5 billion in 2008, while Dallas County brought in $130 million.

Over the last six years, Greater Des Moines has seen travel expenditures grow by 45.5 percent.

Greater Des Moines travel expenditures were driven, in part, by conventions and sports events secured by the GDMCVB and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), including the American Quilter’s Society Quilt Show and Contest, World Pork Expo, American Society of Animal Science, NCCA Division I Women’s Basketball 1st and 2nd Rounds, NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships and US Taekwondo National/Olympic Qualifier.

Workshop Offers Helpful Strategies for Social Media Marketing

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:43:01 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) will hold a social media marketing workshop from 8 a.m. to Noon Tuesday, October 27 at Connxions, 3901 121st Street in Urbandale.

The workshop, sponsored by Love Scott and Associates, will help participants become more familiar with emerging social media tools and learn how they can fit into a company’s marketing and human resources strategies.

“This is a great opportunity for individuals and companies to gain insight into the role of social media marketing and its effect when used in conjunction with public relations and advertising,” says Greg Edwards, President and CEO of GDMCVB.

Workshop speakers include Andrew B. Clark, interactive director for Love Scott; Claire Celsi, owner of The Public Relations Project; and Ben Stone, owner of RPO Consulting. Doug Mitchell, with Create WOW Media, will also participate in the question and answer session following the workshop.

Topics to be discussed:

Benefits/disadvantages of social media marketing
Branding – using Twitter, Facebook and other social media sites for branding
Networking – building relationships with key industry leaders
Public Relations and Social Media – measuring ROI, devolution of the mainstream media
Customer Service – how social media can help companies

The event is free to GDMCVB Marketing Partners and $15 for all other individuals.

To register for this event, visit https://secure.siteoncall.com/events/register_online.php?event=173.

National Lacrosse League Takes Wells Fargo Arena By Swarm

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:46:36 CST

The National Lacrosse League will visit Des Moines for the first time at 7 p.m. December 5, 2009 as the Minnesota Swarm take on the Colorado Mammoth in an exhibition faceoff.

The two teams will prepare for the 2010 season with this Western Division matchup at Wells Fargo Arena. Tickets for the game, priced at $41, $31, $21, and $11, can be purchased through the Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office, all Dahl's Foods locations, online at dahlstickets.com, or by phone at 1-866-55-DAHLS. Interested groups of 10 or more can receive a $5 off discount on all price levels. For more information on group discounts, contact Jason Evans at (515) 564-8146 or jevans@iowaeventscenter.com.

Professional lacrosse is a high intensity sport that combines the action of football, hockey, and soccer all in one. Its fast pace and high hitting environment has made lacrosse one of the fastest growing sports in the country. The National Lacrosse League, compiled of 13 teams throughout the United States and Canada, features the world's best lacrosse players. Each NLL team is scheduled for 16 regular season games.

Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, the Swarm finished the 2009 season with a record of 6 - 10. They will look to newcomer Zack Greer, former Duke University standout and all-time NCAA Division I leading scorer, to be the "offensive star power they've been looking for" this season. The first regular season game for the Swarm will be January 10 against defending league champions, the Calgary Roughnecks.

The Mammoth, located in Denver , Colorado, finished the 2009 season with a 7-9 record, making it to the Western Division Semifinals before losing to the Calgary Roughnecks. In the National Lacrosse League Entry Draft earlier this September, the Mammoth stuck to their roots, choosing University of Denver products as their first three selections. Crowned the NLL Champions in 2006, the Mammoth open their regular season on the road against the Washington Stealth on January 9.

Lacrosse fans can also expect to cheer on their local lacrosse teams throughout the night, as the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State University Cyclones Men's Lacrosse Teams will go head-to-head for the first time at Wells Fargo Arena. This will be the second match up between these two teams this season; the first took place September 11, 2009 where the Cyclones won 13 - 9.

For more information about the National Lacrosse League visit nll.com.

For more information about the Minnesota Swarm, visit mnswarm.com.

For more information about the Colorado Mammoth, visit coloradomammoth.com.

Sleepy Hollow Takes Haunting to New Fright Height

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:29:09 CST

Bring a change of pants when you come to Sleepy Hollow’s Haunted Scream Park this fall. The Scream Park, Iowa’s only haunted theme park, has the all new Kamp Karnage haunted walk this year, as well as the completely redesigned haunted house Nightmare Estates. Producers have also added new scares to the other popular haunted houses, Chaos and The Castle of Blood, to offer thrill seekers a taste of the unexpected.

This year’s walk theme is Kamp Karnage, and will take patrons through a forsaken camp ground crippled with destruction and ruled by fear. Kamp Karnage will have a different feel to it than last year’s Convict Island; this year forcing patrons through much tighter spaces and all-new scenery designed to make them run, not walk, to the exit.

Kamp Karnagel used to be a nice place to take the family for a day of fun,” said Marketing Coordinator Max Kenkel, “But once the ‘L’ broke loose, it turned into pure Karnage.”

The Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park is the only Halloween attraction of its size in Iowa. The theme park setting makes this event special and offers Sleepy Hollow the space needed to turn what began as a hayrack ride in 1994 to the spectacular affair it has become. For those who have never been to the Haunted Scream Park, they may not know what to expect. The 13-acre park features three haunted houses on one end of the village and on the other side is haunted walk and the loading area for the hayrack ride. Each house has a different theme and layout, and all have undergone creative changes so people don’t know what to expect from year to year. The Castle of Blood has a stage where the live music acts perform from 9 to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday nights. The main street of the village is home to the 3-D Gallery, Fog Maze, the Arcade, the inflatables, and several food and ware vendors. The entire village is decorated with Halloween props and lighting, casting an eerie glow over the grounds. Victims enter the village via a wooden bridge through the woods.

“Our Scream Park gives our guests all night fright for one low price,” added Kenkel. “It’s a one stop shop for an entire night of entertainment. We have two different packages for people to choose from. We really have something for everyone.”

This year’s dates for the Haunted Scream Park are October 9-10, 16-17, 22-25, and 29-31. The village opens at 7 PM. Live music will be held from 9-10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Members of the media are invited to visit the park on Friday, October 9th. Media passes are available at the front gate. Contact Max Kenkel to schedule interviews or for photos. For complete pricing please call Max or Mary at (515) 262-4100, or visit sleepyhollowsportspark.com.

Group rates are available with a reservation for groups over 15 persons. For more information on Sleepy Hollow’s Haunted Scream Park please visit sleepyhollowsportspark.com.

Music Acts Scheduled As Of 9/28/09
10/9 - Nemo’s Orchestra
10/10 - TBA
10/16 - Renegades of Sound
10/17 - TBA
10/23 - Leaving Carroll
10/24 - The Story Changes w/ special guest I Was Totally Destroying It
10/30 - TBA
10/31 - The Hooligans

Second Saturday at The Des Moines Playhouse

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:23:49 CST

Contact: Lee Ann Bakros
Playhouse Public Relations Director
515-974-5358

The Des Moines Playhouse is the home for Second Saturday, an alternative Saturday night entertainment for young people in grades 6-12. The next session of Second Saturday is at 7:30 10:00 PM, Saturday, Oct. 10. Cost is $8. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, and is available online at dmplayhouse.com.

Now in its 17th year of theatre fun at The Playhouse, Second Saturday is an evening of sketch comedy and fast-paced games. Students, more than 100 each month from throughout the metro, work in groups according to age. While not a class or workshop, Second Saturday is planned and supervised by Playhouse education staff.

Second Saturday is held each month, September-May. The 2009-10 season schedule is as follows: Nov. 14, Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13, Mar. 13, Apr.10, and May 8.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and
volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information on The Playhouse's educational offerings, call 515-974-5365.

Living History Farms to mark Pope John Paul II Anniversary

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:26:37 CST

Contact: Jennie Deerr

(515) 278-5286
Living History Farms

On Friday, October 2, Living History Farms will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Pope John Paul II's historic visit to Living History Farms on October 4, 1979. Ruth Haus, President of Living History Farms, wanted to commemorate this significant event in a community-wide celebration. "The visit of his holiness, Pope John Paul II, in 1979, was an event that catapulted Living History Farms onto the national stage. His message to us to care for our land and to feed the world are as relevant today, as they were 30 years ago when he spoke to our crowd of 350,000. As stewards of 500 acres of land ourselves, Living History Farms puts this message into practice every day. Iowa's rural heritage is brought to life at Living History Farms and highlights the impact of our agricultural roots upon society," says Haus.

The day will start with nearly 800 Des Moines Area Catholic School children participating in Catholic School Day. Schools participating include Assumption, St. Pius X, St. Joseph, St. Theresa, Holy Trinity, St. Francis of Assisi, Holy Family, St. Augustine, Sacred Heart, Christ the King, St. Patrick and St. Anthony Catholic Schools. Students will focus on the themes of stewardship and foodways. Students will also participate in "The Hungry As A Horse: Non-Perishable Food Drive." Students from Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines will be at Living History Farms Friday to collect non-perishable food items on behalf of the St. Mary's food pantry in Des Moines. The goal is to collect 2,000 pounds of food, which is the weight of one Percheron draft horse at Living History Farms.

At 5 p.m. on Friday, October 2, there will be a free, interfaith prayer service at Living History Farms in Urbandale, outside of the Church of the Land at the Farms, which was constructed in honor of the Pope's visit. Attendees should park in the Visitor Center parking lot and enter through the Visitor Center to walk to the church. Doors to the event will open at 4:45 pm. Directions to the Visitor Center are found on Living History Farms' website at www.livinghistoryfarms.org. A limited number of chairs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are welcome to bring a blanket. People and families attending the interfaith prayer service can also bring a donation of non-perishable food.

Representatives from at least eight Christian communities, two Jewish communities, and the Des Moines Area Religious Council, have agreed to participate. Music will be led by musicians from Drake University, under the direction of Dr. Aimee Beckmann-Collier. Dr. Beckmann-Collier, a Des Moines native and former choral director at Dowling Catholic High School, was among the musicians at the 1979 papal Mass in Des Moines. Following the prayer service, a dinner catered by Shane's Rib Shack will be available at a price of $7 for adults and $4 for children. The Living History Farms Guild will provide homemade pies. Guests are also welcome to bring a picnic dinner. (Please note, no alcohol or tobacco products are allowed.)

Mary Nelson, Immediate Past Board Chairperson of Living History Farms added, "In 1979 any visit by a Pope outside of Italy was rare. The fact that he would chose Des Moines, in answer to an Iowa farmer's letter was almost beyond belief. It was his interest in land stewardship that made the trip a natural for him and a memorable time for us. It is a wonderful part of the history of Living History Farms." In October 4, 1981, the formal dedication of the Interfaith Church of the Land proceeded with an outdoor service. It included representatives of Jewish, Protestant, Catholic and Muslim religions to emphasize the interfaith character of the church. Governors Ray and Hughes were also in attendance.

There will also be a collection of historic items from the Papal visit, on loan from the Diocese of Des Moines. These items include Living History Farms will display the following items on loan from the Diocese of Des Moines including the Papal Quilt - The colorful quilted banner used as a backdrop on the cathedral space for Pope John Paul II's visit was designed by Father John Buscemi. The quilt will be on display from September 30 - October 4th at Living History Farms with the exception of October 3rd, when it will be displayed at Dowling Catholic High School for the Symposium. Other important pieces from the Pope's visit will also be on display throughout the weekend.

Volunteers interested in helping with the prayer service should contact Jan Milroy, Manager of Volunteer Services, at (515) 278-5286.

In case of rain, the event will be held inside the Flynn Barn.

Living History Farms is a 501(c)(3)non-profit, historical, educational museum located at 11121 Hickman Rd (exit #125 from the combined interstates 35/80), Urbandale, Iowa. Operations and maintenance are dependent upon gate receipts, memberships and contributions.

Living History Farms is open Wednesday-Sunday from September 9 - October 15.
Hours/Days:
Wednesday-Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday, Noon to 5 pm
Season sponsor is Bravo Greater Des Moines.

Regular Daily Admission is: Adult, $11.50; Child (4-12), $7; Senior Citizen (60+), $10.50. Living History Farms members are admitted free. Arrive by 3 p.m. to tour the entire museum. Ticket sales and admission to the Farms ends at 4 p.m. Grounds and sites close at 5 p.m. For a special events update, call (515) 278-2400.

# # #

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: GET MOTIVATED TO DRAW OVER 15,000 TO DES MOINES THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:02:42 CST

Des Moines is preparing to host a large influx of visitors this week as over 15,000 guests are expected at Wells Fargo Arena for the Get Motivated seminar Thursday, September 17. Global Spectrum, the management company of the Iowa Events Center, is working multiple community and state organizations to ensure both visitors and commuters have a smooth, safe trip into downtown Thursday.

“A team consisting of leaders from Polk County, the Iowa Department of Transportation, the City of Des Moines, the Des Moines Police Department, the Convention & Visitors Bureau, DART, and Global Spectrum have come together with a plan that will allow our visitors to enjoy their visit to Des Moines, while minimizing the effect the increased traffic will have on the morning commute,” said Global Spectrum’s Matt Homan, General Manager of the Iowa Events Center.

In order to accommodate the parking demands of a major daytime event, many FREE alternatives will be available all day Thursday for Get Motivated attendees. People are encouraged to consider all of their options for parking, and allow extra time before attempting to travel downtown. Various shuttle pick-up points have been secured to help ease congestion around Wells Fargo Arena and downtown Des Moines. Free shuttles, with both pick-up and drop-off access, will operate from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on a regular schedule, at the following locations:

Iowa State Fairgrounds – enter the fairgrounds at the corner of University and E 36th. This lot is suggested for those travelling from the North and East of Des Moines.
Waterworks Park – enter off Fleur Drive at the stoplight by Gray’s Lake and proceed straight to the first open grass area on your left. This lot is suggested for those traveling from the South
Southridge Mall – Get Motivated parking is on the North side of Sears. This lot is suggested for those travelling from the South as well.

Each shuttle will pick-up and drop-off at a designated location near Wells Fargo Arena. This location will be consistent all day, ensuring the attendees can catch their shuttle at the same location they were dropped off at in the morning. In addition to the shuttle service, downtown can accommodate vehicles parking in the following locations:

Iowa Events Center Parking Lots ($6): The closest lot for attendees, but also the quickest to fill up. Entrances to these lots are off 3rd, 5th, and Crocker Streets.
City of Des Moines Parking Garages ($5): City parking garages are located throughout downtown with convenient skywalk access to Wells Fargo Arena. Payment is collected as you enter the garage each time. The city provides signage along major arteries to downtown with up to the minute parking garage availability.
Street Parking (metered): Street parking is available with parking meter access. Pay attention to the pricing listed on the meter, as many locations have different time limits, or parking restrictions during parts of the day (typically 4-6 p.m.)
Principal Park ($6) – This lot is suggested as overflow from people travelling from the west.
11th Street and MLK downtown ($5) – This lot is suggested for people travelling from the West.

For more information, and a printable PDF with parking and shuttle information, please click here. Click here for maps of Greater Des Moines.

Des Moines Area Sports Commission Wins Award for Bureau Innovation

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:59:33 CST

The Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), under the umbrella of The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), has won the Bureau Innovation Award at the Upper Midwest Convention and Visitor Bureau’s Fall Conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

In memory of the late Bruce Riley McDaniel, the prestigious McDaniel Awards honor tourism industry professionals that achieve and exemplify greatness. The DMASC was recognized as an innovative organization with a budget of over $75,000.

The DMASC is under the direction of GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. The DMASC sports department is under the direction of Vice President of Sports and Development Al Lorenzen.

“We’re honored to be recognized with the Bureau Innovation Award and proud to continue to promote Greater Des Moines as a premiere destination for sporting events,” said Edwards. “We look forward to future successes in Greater Des Moines with the DMASC in place.”

The DMASC was formed in 1991, originally called the Greater Des Moines Sports Authority, changed names and became part of the GDMCVB in 2008. The purpose of DMASC is to meet the needs of larger-scale events coming into Greater Des Moines. DMASC supports and assists events such as the AAU Junior Olympic Games, the largest amateur sporting event in the country, with the planning, promotion and operation from start to finish.

The DMASC took the lead on creating TEAM Iowa, a corporation of sports commissions and conventions and visitors bureaus across the state dedicated to promoting common good and social welfare of Iowa. It also strives to attract amateur sporting events through the state, thereby promoting tourism to Iowa as well. Their specific stated purpose is to promote Iowa as a premier destination for amateur sports activities.

The overall impact of the DMASC extends beyond boosting dollars flowing into Greater Des Moines. DMASC has also worked to develop a team of volunteers and community support for major sporting events such as the NCAA Division I Track and Field National Championship, the North American Fast Pitch World Series, US Taekwondo National Qualifier and the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball 1st and 2nd Rounds.

For information on the Des Moines Area Sports Commission visit DesMoinesSports.com.

Former UCLA Coach to Lead Coaches Clinic

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:01:39 CST

Sue Enquist, former head coach at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), will hold a softball clinic this weekend at Raccoon River Softball Complex in West Des Moines.

“Don't miss this rare opportunity to see former UCLA Coach Sue Enquist,” says Mary Thompson, I-Club Softball Director. “Sue is one of the most successful college coaches in history.”

Enquist, who has won 11 National Championships, will lead a coach’s clinic, recruiting seminar and player hitting academy. High school, college and travel coaches are welcome to attend the Coaches Clinic from 9 a.m. to Noon Saturday, September 19. Cost is $30 per person. A college recruiting seminar will follow from 4:30-6:30 p.m. for parents, coaches and players. Cost for this event is also $30.

The Player Hitting Academy will be held from 9 a.m. - Noon Saturday, September 20. Cost is $35. All levels of players are welcome. For those who wish to attend two of the sessions, a combo rate of $50 is offered.

Enquist is one of the most successful collegiate softball coaches of all time and has more than 1,000 wins in her coaching career.

For more information or to register online, visit http://iclubsoftball.com/SueEnquistClinics.htm.

Restaurants Cash In With Restaurant Week, Des Moines Woman Wins Trip to Puerto Rico

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:33:42 CST

Greater Des Moines’ second annual Restaurant Week was a success, bringing an estimated $130,000 in to the 42 participating restaurants during their typically slow time of year. Collected receipts show the average amount spent was $210.21.

“We’re pleased to see increases across the board with this promotion,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President and CEO Greg Edwards. “The number of participating restaurants and the dollars spent in those restaurants increased significantly.”

Last year’s impact was estimated at $100,000 at 33 participating locations.

“We heard success stories from patrons, chefs and wait staff,” said Edwards. “Alba reported multiple nights of over 100 reservations.”

Receipts this year demonstrated the popularity of new dining options like Sbrocco, Django, Alba and Le Jardin, and old favorites like Cosi Cucina.

"This has been a great promotion," said Michelle Beaty, one of the diners who entered receipts into the prize drawing. "We tried four new places this week, three of which we will definitely go back to. It helped us get out of the restaurant rut, as it seemed like we always go to the same places."

Restaurant Week evoked a similar response from the winner of the trip for two to Puerto Rico. Ramona Peterson and her husband Dr. Gregory Peterson of Des Moines said, “Restaurant Week is an exciting time to taste the great food and experience all the interesting restaurants that we may not have experienced recently.” Peterson said they dined at Sbrocco, Cosi Cucina, Azalea, Le Jardin and Café Di Scala during Restaurant Week.

Plans for next year’s Restaurant Week are already in the works. Public comments and feedback on Restaurant Week may be sent to marketing@desmoinescvb.com.

Restaurant Week was organized by Des Moines Business Record, dsm Magazine and the GDMCVB.

Des Moines Ranks #1 for Affordability, Two Years in a Row

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:09:44 CST

Des Moines has been named the most affordable U.S. city to hold tradeshows in, according to Tradeshow Week, for the second year in a row. The announcement appears in the September 7, 2009 edition of Tradeshow Week.

The findings show dollars go further in Iowa’s capital city. Des Moines’ cost effective hotel rates and restaurants contributed to the top-in-the-country ranking, proving locals and visitors can “Do More in Des Moines” for less. The city’s central location at the intersection of Interstates 80 and 35 also contribute to ease of travel and affordability.

“We’ve found last year’s top ranking earned our sales team more leads and recognition in a competitive marketplace,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. “The news of Des Moines being the best place to save tradeshow planners and attendees money continues to be great news for all of us. We anticipate this award will continue to lure in more calls and more bookings, meaning more money will flow into our local economy.”

Greater Des Moines’ facilities, including the Iowa State Fairgrounds, Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall, Veterans Memorial Auditorium and Polk County Convention Complex hold hundreds of tradeshows and events each year. Advantages such as a 4-mile skywalk system throughout Downtown Des Moines and the Des Moines International Airport help Greater Des Moines stand out from other similarly-sized cities.

The ranking was determined by the Tradeshow Week editorial staff with data collected from the federal government’s 2009 Domestic Per Diem Rates for meals and incidentals, Smith Travel Research’s survey of domestic hotel rates and Tradeshow Week’s 2009 Survey of U.S. and Canadian Labor Rates. A story outlining details of the news is available at http://www.tradeshowweek.com/article/CA6687178.html?industryid=49070.

For more information on Greater Des Moines, or for free help planning an upcoming event or meeting, visit SeeDesMoines.com.

Second Saturday at the Des Moines Playhouse

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:30:37 CST

The Des Moines Playhouse is the home for Second Saturday, an alternative Saturday night entertainment for young people in grades 6 - 12. The new season of Second Saturday kicks off at 7:30-10 p.m., Saturday, September 12. Cost is $8. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, and is available online at dmplayhouse.com.

Now in its 17th year of theatre fun at The Playhouse, Second Saturday is an evening of sketch comedy and fast-paced games. Students, more than 100 each month from throughout the metro, work in groups according to age. While not a class or workshop, Second Saturday is planned and supervised by Playhouse
education staff.

Second Saturday is held each month, September - May. The 2009-10 season schedule is as follows: Oct. 10, Nov. 14, Dec. 12, Jan. 9, Feb. 13, Mar. 13, Apr. 10 and May 8.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information on The Playhouse's educational offerings, call (515) 974-5365.

Ten Certified Regional Sports Authority Districts Announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:21:49 CST

Today, Iowa Department of Economic Development Director Mike Tramontina announced the certification of 10 Regional Sports Authority Districts.

Ames, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Dubuque, Ft. Dodge, Mason City, Sioux City, Quad Cities and Waterloo/Cedar Falls were all named as certified districts.

"Sporting events draw in more than just participants," said Tramontina. "Coaches, judges and fans stay in hotels, dine in restaurants and shop while they are here, making a significant impact on Iowa's economy."

Created during the 2007 Legislative session, the Regional Sports Authority District program was designed to certify up to 10 districts for the promotion of youth sports, high school athletics, the Special Olympics or other non-professional sporting events. Each certified district will receive $50,000, an equal distribution of the $500,000 appropriation.

Convention and Visitors Bureaus across the state were eligible applicants. Districts could include more than one city and more than one Convention and Visitors Bureau. The certification process was conducted by the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

Tourism is a $6.3 billion industry in Iowa, employing nearly 65,000 people statewide and generating nearly $308 million in state taxes. The Iowa Tourism Office is part of the Iowa Department of Economic Development. For more information about Iowa tourism, visit traveliowa.com, call (800) 345-IOWA or stop at any Iowa Welcome Center.

Iowa�s Best Family Fest

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:33:28 CST

Huzzah! Labor Day weekend heralds the beginning of Autumn and the annual DES MOINES RENAISSANCE
FAIRE. For three glorious weekends the permanent Tudor village of Canterbury-on-Sherwood will showcase an enhanced lineup of entertainment and edu-tainers being booked in from all over the U.S. Patrons from around the nation will converge on the historical village setting, complete with castle and full contact jousting show, at Festival Park, located behind Sleepy Hollow Sports Park. Th is highly unique festival starts Sept. 5-7 and runs the 12-13 and 19-20.

With three diff erent weekend themes (Scottish Highland, Romance & Revelry, Buccaneers & Pirates) visitors can now experience the eight show stages, two living history exhibit areas, a children’s realm, a Sherwood Forest glen, forty quaint merchant shops, two pubs, a wine villa, a faerie treehouse, a pirate cove, a knife-tossing and archery shooting gallery, an open fi eld battle zone, a large equestrian jousting arena, hand-powered rides, two feasting halls, additional food merchants in the expanded food court, a gem mine, various demonstration booths, a kids soft -sword dueling ring, a kids jousting tilt, landscaped gardens, a royal pavilion for the queen, and one of the biggest castles in the Midwest featuring a dungeon tour on the inside. Newly constructed for 2009 is a floor on the grand feasting hall and a roof on the Guild Hall. Th is ‘merry olde England’ castle town called Canterbury-on-Sherwood is the new high adventure history immersion on the Pleasant Hill side of Des Moines.

Last year’s festival drew curious visitors from as far away as Canada and Mexico. Th is year’s event will treat its numerous guests to an unusual selection of entertainers, who will also be traveling from distant cities.

Besides the regular cast (of 250 costumed characters, strolling musicians, singers, dancers, faeries, comics, jugglers, fi re-breathers, mimes, acrobats, story-tellers, and historic personas) the festival showcases some 25 professional performing troupes and solo acts who present as many as 80 shows a day in the various staging areas.

New this year will be the re-designed jousting shows, three authentic Renaissance-styled weddings, the “Warwick” living history camp, “Sons of the Mist” Scottish knights, “Guardians of the Black Forest” medieval German sword battles, Jeff McLane’s national touring “Comedy Hamlet” play, “Paul the Gooseman” and his costumed geese on parade, Danza Mystique belly dancers, the Royale Pirates of Tortuga, the Bawdy Buccaneers and several additional comedy street-theater groups.

The Joust Evolution equestrian troupe will be featured on the national TV show, “Saddle Up With Dennis Brouse” this fall on IPTV.

The producers of the DES MOINES RENAISSANCE FAIRE are off ering admission discounts. Corporations and organizations wishing to arrange for a discount admission for their employees/members should contact Mary Flatt at Sleepy Hollow.

The hours of royal festivities will be 10 am to 6 pm daily. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance at metro Hy-Vee stores. Admission is $16 for teens and adults, $8 for kids 5 to 12, with tots free. A two day pass is $23 and a full season pass is $30. (Prices already include tax.)

The complete listing of performers, scheduled stage shows, merchants, food vendors and historical demonstrations will appear on dmrenfaire.com, starting in August. Event inquiries can be made to greg@festint.com or tel. (641) 357-5177. For location information you can call (515) 262-4100 or go to sleepyhollowsportspark.com for directions.

Photo CDs available. Click here for entertainment information.

CONTACT:
Greg Schmidt
(641) 357-5177
greg@festint.com

Max Kenkel
(515) 262-4100
mxknkl@yahoo.com
max@sleepyhollowsportspark.com

ARTSTOP - September 11 & 12

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:29:59 CST

Contact:
Jim Miller, Historic Valley Junction Foundation
Phone: (515) 222-3642
Email: director@valleyjunction.com

Marlene Olson, Olson-Larsen Galleries
Phone: (515) 277-6734
Email: info@olsonlarsen.com

Web sites: artstopinfo.com • myspace.com/artstop

Join the Des Moines Metro arts community for the 3rd annual artstop, a two-day celebration of local visual and performing arts. artstop includes the Historic East Village, Historic Valley Junction, Roosevelt Shopping District, Court Avenue, Ingersoll Avenue and Gateway West. artstop hours are Friday, September 11 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, September 12 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Forty-one galleries, performance centers and artists’ studios are part of this year’s artstop. Special events such as exhibition openings, performances, artist demonstrations and live music will take place at many locations. Participants are encouraged to ride the artstop bus from district to district free of charge. artstop is an arts event created for the community by the community with the goal to inform, entertain and engage community members in the arts.

This year’s artstop will feature many more performances and demonstrations as part of an Iowa Community Cultural Grant received from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. This grant has given artstop venues the opportunity to offer a multitude of special events by hiring Iowa musicians, performers and artists. Click here for a complete listing of special events.

A brochure with details about the artstop venues, events and bus schedule will be available at each venue and in the August/September/October issue of dsmArts. Please visit artstopinfo.com or myspace.com/artstop for more information.

Major financial support of artstop is provided by BRAVO, Meredith Corporation and the Iowa Departement of Cultural Affaris. artstop’s primary print sponsor is Business Publications Corporation. KCCI is the television sponsor of artstop. Cityview, Lite 104.1 (KLTI), KIOA, West Bank, the Polk County Board of Supervisors, the City of West Des Moines and The Theatrical Shop are financial and media partners of artstop.

Advice and assistance was provided by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Historic Valley Junction Foundation and the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.

"Non Stop Fun" More Than a Just a Theme for the 2010 Iowa State Fair

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:46:44 CST

Endless food, entertainment and contests to reign at next year's Fair, Aug. 12-22

We're counting down the final minutes of the 2009 Iowa State Fair - "State Fair Time" - but eager Fairgoers are already marking their calendars for the 2010 Iowa State Fair, August 12-22.

The 2010 theme - "Non Stop Fun" - harkens to the endless array of food, animals, entertainment, exhibits, rides, music, people-watching, contests, er, well…you get the idea. The 2010 Iowa State Fair promises to be the same round-the-clock blur of activity folks have come to expect from the country's favorite state fair.

Next year's logo, designed by Trilix Marketing Group of Urbandale, is reminiscent of the bright, lighted signs found in some of America’s favorite entertainment destinations where days run into night, people forget their cares and there is always something to do.

The Iowa State Fair is the state's largest single tourism event. With the state’s largest arts show, largest foods department of any state fair and one of the world’s largest livestock shows all in the same place, it's no surprise it was named in the New York Times best-selling travel book 1,000 Places To See Before You Die. The Fair is also included in the recently published, 1,000 Places To See in the U.S.A. and Canada Before You Die.

In 2006 and 2008, the Fair was listed in Discover America's Top 200 Events in the Nation, joining the ranks of the Super Bowl, the Kentucky Derby and the Daytona 500. The event was USA Weekend’s #2 choice for summer fun in America and recognized by Family Fun magazine as one of America's Great Fairs and Festivals. The Fair is also one of the American Bus Association’s 2009 Top 100 Events.

The 2010 Iowa State Fair is scheduled for August 12-22. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or check out iowastatefair.org.

Restaurant Week Expected to Boost Local Eatery Business

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:58:23 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), Des Moines Business Record and dsm Magazine invite residents and visitors to attend Des Moines’ second Restaurant Week this Friday, August 21 through Sunday, August 30.

“We estimate $100,000 was spent in Greater Des Moines’ restaurants during Restaurant Week last year,” said Greg Edwards, President and CEO of the GDMCVB. “We anticipate those numbers to go up this year due to the popularity of this event, and more participating restaurants.”

Forty-two participating restaurants will create special three-course dinners for a prix-fixed price $25 per person or $25 for lunch for two. Diners are invited to visit the participating restaurants, save at least four receipts and enter to win a trip for two to Puerto Rico.

Participating restaurants include: Alba, Azalea, Baratta's, Bistro Montage, Bos, Cafe Di Scala, Centro, Chef's Kitchen, Christopher's, Court Avenue Brewing Company, Cosi Cucina, Dish, DJango, Dos Rios, Fire Creek, Gateway Market MLK, Gateway Market West, Grand Piano Bistro, Graze, Irina's Restaurant, Jimmy's American Café, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse - Des Moines, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse - West Des Moines, Le Jardin, Lucca, Mezzodis, Mojo's, Ohana Steakhouse, Phat Chefs, Proof, Rock River Grill in the Downtown Marriott, Raccoon River Brewery, Sbrocco, Shane's Rib Shack, Splash, Star Bar, Trostel's Greenbriar, Tursi's Latin King, Waterfront Seafood Market – Ankeny, Waterfront Seafood Market - West Des Moines, Woody's Smoke Shack and Zen.

Menus are posted online at SeeDesMoines.com and dsmmagazine.com. Facebook users can find more information by searching “Des Moines Restaurant Week.” Facebook users can also upload photos and feedback on the event on the GDMCVB Fan Page, facebook.com/SeeDesMoines. Twitter followers can tweet and follow the events’ updates by using the hashtag, #DMRestaurantWeek.

Sponsors include Coca-Cola/Atlantic Bottling Company, Doll Distributing, Pearl Vodka and Sysco Food Services.

No purchase necessary. Visit dsmmagzine.com for the official rules.

Miniature Hereford Cattle Return to the 2009 Iowa State Fair

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 12:07:34 CST

The Miniature Hereford breeders will return to the Iowa State Fair for the 2009 livestock competition. The Miniature Herefords will be on display Wednesday, August 19 through Saturday, August 23 in the new Stalling Barn.

Kicking off the event for the first time this year is the Celebrity Baby Bull Class at 1 p.m. Friday, August 21 in the East Arena. The Baby Bull Class will showcase the animals as celebrities lead them through the arena. Celebrities attending the event include:

Sophia Ahmad, Des Moines Register Entertainment Reporter
Frank Brownell, Brownells Inc. CEO

Lynn Clayton, Operations Manager at Atlantic Bottling Co. (Coca-Cola)
Greg Edwards, President/CEO Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau

Gary Ehlers, Endres Processing
Reid Forgrave, Des Moines Register Features Reporter

Tim Gassman, President Milhiser Smith Agency, Inc
Tom Hay, Hydro-Klean Inc.

Ronald McDonald, Ronald McDonald House Charities
Erica Reimers, Sullivan Show Supply

Ken Root, Broadcaster for The Big Show, WHO Radio AM 1040
Dr. Daniel Schroeder, Mercy Hospital

Gary Van Aernam, President State Fair Board

Following the Baby Bull Class will be the Junior Show, which showcases 3-18 year olds in the Miniature Hereford World competition. This class is for showmen and women ages 3-18. Following the Junior Show will be the Open Show, which will have 12 classes.

The breeding of Miniature Herefords began over 250 years ago. Miniature Herefords are full-blood Herefords; they are simply not as tall as normal cattle. For a bovine to be classified as ‘miniature,’ they are scored by the size of their frame with most measuring 38-43 inches tall at the hip.
For more information on Miniature Hereford cattle, visit www.mhbaonline.org.

The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson to lead State Fair Parade

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:05:40 CST

Iowa native and Olympic Medalist Shawn Johnson will serve as Parade Marshal for the 2009 Iowa State Fair Parade, set Wednesday, August 12. The parade will begin at 6:15 p.m. in downtown Des Moines. The Parade is the state's largest and the annual kick-off to the Fair, which runs August 13-23.

Shawn Johnson of West Des Moines competed at the 2008 Olympic Games and earned an individual gold medal along with three silver medals. Johnson also became the youngest ever contestant on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars," where she danced her way to becoming the champion of season eight.

Spectators will be able to watch over 100 floats, animals, vehicles, novelty and performing units during the parade on August 12. Staging will take place at the State Capitol Complex. Parade entrants will then travel west on Grand Avenue to 13th Street. Dispersion will take place between 13th and 18th Streets.

A viewing area accessible to disabled persons is located at the northwest corner of Sixth and Grand Avenues.

Highlights of the gala event will be re-broadcast on parade night throughout central Iowa on FOX 17 beginning at 10 p.m.

The 2009 Iowa State Fair runs August 13-23 - "State Fair Time." The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th Street and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or check out www.iowastatefair.org.

Prairie Meadows Temple Theater Series announced

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:48:54 CST

The Civic Center Announces 2009-2010 Prairie Meadows Temple Theater Series; 5-Show Packages Start at Just $142

The 2009-2010 Prairie Meadows Temple Theater Series five show season ticket package features:

SISTER’S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM - December 2-13, 2009
DIXIE’S TUPPERWARE PARTY - January 13-24, 2010
RUNT OF THE LITTER - February 10-21, 2010
THE WONDER BREAD YEARS - March 10-21, 2010
GIRLS NIGHT THE MUSICAL - April 7-25, 2010

Jeff Chelesvig, Civic Center President & CEO, says, “We are excited to offer this unique line-up of professional theater as part of our Temple Theater Series programming.” Chelesvig added that due to Prairie Meadows’ continued sponsorship and partnership with the Civic Center, the Temple Theater is able to remain a vibrant entertainment anchor for downtown Des Moines and the Western Gateway.

Gary Palmer, President and CEO of Prairie Meadows, looks forward to its second season of partnership with the Civic Center and to continuing its support of arts and culture in Central Iowa. “We are proud to serve as the title sponsor of the Prairie Meadows Temple Theater Series and contribute to the positive impact live, professional theater has on the quality of life within our community.”

2009-2010 PRAIRIE MEADOWS TEMPLE THEATER SERIES:

SISTER’S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM (December 2-13, 2009) - It’s “Forensic Files goes to Bethlehem” as Sister takes on the mystery of what happened to the Magi’s gold. Employing her own tools, a local choir and a gaggle of audience members, Sister creates a living nativity unlike any you’ve ever seen. This is sure to become the newest addition to your holiday traditions.

DIXIE’S TUPPERWARE PARTY (January 13-24, 2010) - Last season’s smash hit comedy returns to the Temple Theater. Dixie Longate, the fast-talking Tupperware Lady, packed up her catalogues, left her children in an Alabama trailer park and took Off-Broadway and the nation by storm! Join Dixie as she travels the country throwing good ol’ fashioned Tupperware Parties filled with outrageously funny tales, free giveaways, audience participation, and the most fabulous assortment of Tupperware ever sold on a theater stage. And yes, it’s a REAL Tupperware Party!

RUNT OF THE LITTER (February 10-21, 2010) - Former NFL player Bo Eason was told he was too small to play football. He stuck to his 20-year plan, and his determination and effort led to a successful collegiate and professional career as safety with the NFL’s Houston Oilers. This semi-autobiographical play looks at what happens to two brothers in a family of over-achievers when their parents assure their oldest son he is destined for football superstardom and tell their youngest son he is too small to compete. A line in the family sand is drawn that colors the rest of their lives. RUNT OF THE LITTER debuted in New York in 2002 and has subsequently been performed by Bo Eason at theaters around the country.

THE WONDER BREAD YEARS (March 10-21, 2010) - A salute to the Baby Boomer generation, THE WONDER BREAD YEARS, written and performed by Pat Hazell, is a fast-paced, hilarious production that gracefully walks the line between stand-up and theater. Declared one of the five funniest people in America by Showtime, Pat Hazell is one of the original writers for NBC’s Seinfeld. A critically acclaimed playwright, he is recognized for his genuinely funny Americana humor and his salute to pop culture. THE WONDER BREAD YEARS not only restores a much-needed sense of wonder, but leaves audiences laughing and savoring the past like never before.

GIRLS NIGHT THE MUSICAL (April 7-25, 2010) - Share the fun and laughs at this hilarious, feel-good comedy as five girlfriends go from heartbreak to happiness during a wild night of karaoke. Bursting with energy, GIRLS NIGHT is packed with every female anthem you can think of including Girls Just Want to Have Fun, Lady Marmalade, It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, Man, I Feel Like a Woman and more! GIRLS NIGHT is a not-to-be-missed slice of sizzling entertainment for anyone who really knows how to have fun!

Iowa District Rally Showcases What�s to Come in 2010

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:32:41 CST

The Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) Iowa District Rally is August 6-8 in Ames. Motorcyclists will be “Wingin” into Iowa from across the Midwest.

“The Iowa District Rally is expected to bring about 100 motorcycles and 150 Gold Wing riders to Ames,” says Joe Pirillo, GWRRA Iowa District Senior Educator. Throughout the event, riders will enjoy a light show, bike show and more.

The Iowa District Rally will be a preview of the Annual Summer National Wing Ding convention to be held in Greater Des Moines next summer. The GWRRA announced earlier this month that Wing Ding 32 would be held June 30-July 3, 2010 and would bring around 11,000 Gold Wing and Valkyrie motorcyclists to Greater Des Moines.

Pirillo expects 90 to 95 percent of the Iowa District Rally attendees will also attend Wing Ding 32.

For more information on the GWRRA Iowa District Rally, visit at gwrra-iowa.org.

The Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) is the world's largest single-marque social organization for owners and riders of Honda Gold Wing/Valkyrie motorcycles -- and some would say, the world's largest family. Dedicated to our motto, Friends for Fun, Safety and Knowledge, GWRRA members enjoy the freedom of belonging to a not-for-profit, non-religious and non-political organization.

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

Opening Day Gate Admission "Canned" at Fair Food Drive

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:05:50 CST

On opening day, August 13, the Iowa State Fair is trading gate admission to help Iowans in need. From 5-7 a.m. get one free admission with a minimum donation of two canned food items or $2 to the Food Bank of Iowa. One admission per person per donation (parking not included).

Today, more Iowans than ever are turning to the Food Bank of Iowa and its partner agencies to help feed their families. The Fair is aiming to collect 65,000 pounds of food, which would provide 41,578 meals to Iowans in need.

The opening day celebrations kick-off in the Grandstand at 5 a.m. with a special appearance by Olympic gold medalist and Fair Parade Marshall Shawn Johnson at 7:30 a.m. followed by opening ceremonies at 8:30 a.m. From 5-8 a.m. Fairgoers can collect raffle tickets for a chance to snag thousands in cash and prizes in the cash cube.

Those attending the Fair later in the day can also enjoy $2 off regular adult admission from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a donation of two canned food items or $1 donation to the Food Bank of Iowa (cannot be combined with other offers). Gate admission is half-price after 5 p.m. Monday through Thursdays.

More Opening Day Entertainment:

Evening performances by The Nadas, Drew Seeley, Firefall and Trailer Choir (all free with gate admission).
Christian music stars Steven Curtis Chapman and Jeremy Camp light up the Grandstand stage at 8 p.m., $27.

More info at iowastatefair.org.

Shuttle service to Valley Junction Farmers' Market

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:37:32 CST

In partnership with the Historic Valley Junction Foundation, the City of West Des Moines will offer a shuttle service between Hillside Elementary School and the intersection of 5th and Maple at the Valley Junction Farmers Market/Music in the Junction on Thursday, July 30. Two shuttles will pick up and drop off riders from these locations starting at 4 p.m. and ending at 9 p.m. The last shuttle will leave the Intersection of 5th and Maple at 9 p.m. Thursday night.

The first 200 vehicles to park at Hillside Elementary (713 Eighth Street) or the nearby Walnut Creek Campus (815 Eighth Street) will receive a $5 voucher for any purchase of $5 or more, usable at any vendor or merchant participating in the Farmers Market activities. One voucher will be distributed per vehicle.

Shuttle service and the voucher program will continue through the rest of the 2009 Farmer Market season. The City of West Des Moines and VJ Historic Foundation greatly appreciate the support of residents in this new initiative and encourage parking in this location in an attempt to alleviate some of the congestion and parking issues occurring in the vicinity immediately surrounding the event.

Schedule Changes for Iowa Gas Swap Meet and Auctions

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:25:12 CST

The annual event begins one day early this year on Wednesday, August 5 to allow more time for attendees from all over the world to attend.

Iowa Gas Swap Meet and Auctions announces changes in the 2009 meet schedule. For the 23^rd annual event, the swap meet will begin a day early on Wednesday, August 5 with vendor sales continuing on Thursday, in the parking lot, ballroom, open spaces and guest rooms at the Airport Holiday Inn in Des Moines, Iowa. On Friday, August 7, Matthews Auctions LLC will conduct a petroleum collectibles auction in the hotel ballroom.

In previous years, the event began with the swap meet on Thursday and Friday, with a can/container auction on Friday evening and petroleum collectibles auction held on Saturday.

The change in schedule allows vendors and collectors who travel from across the country and from around the world more time for their return trips. One of the favorite Iowa Gas activities is the Thursday evening room-to-room hospitality and open house. Vendors and collectors display items for sale in their Holiday Inn guest rooms beginning at 7 p.m.

For the third consecutive year, Matthews Auctions LLC will broadcast the entire auction live on www.proxybid.com. This year’s auction again features consignments of many highly desirable globes, signs and memorabilia.

Iowa Gas is widely recognized as the world’s largest event for busing, selling and trading of original gas pumps, signs, globes, bottles, cans, maps and related advertising memorabilia.

There is no admission charge to attend Iowa Gas. The event is open to the public and all are invited to attend.

For additional information please phone (515) 321-7930 or visit www.iowagas.com.

AC/DC's Black Ice World Tour Returns to the U.S. This Fall

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:42:59 CST

AC/DC to Appear at Wells Fargo Arena October 10 at 7:30 p.m. - Tickets go on-sale
Saturday, August 1 at 10 a.m.

AC/DC's highly successful Black Ice World Tour returns to the U.S. this fall and includes a stop at Wells Fargo Arena on Saturday, October 10. Tickets, priced at $90.50, go on sale Saturday, August 1 at 10:00 am exclusively through the Wells Fargo Arena Box Office, all Dahl's Foods, online at www.dahlstickets.com, or charge by phone 866-55-DAHLS.

AC/DC kicked off their Black Ice World Tour in late October 2008, crisscrossing North America and Europe garnering raves from critics along the way. The Black Ice World Tour was given the 'Major Tour of the Year' award at the 20th Annual Pollstar Concert Industry Awards.

Released globally on October 20, 2008, Black Ice has been certified Double Platinum in the U.S. Black Ice is AC/DC's first new album in over eight years and its evident the band is still an incredible force in rock.

On October 26th, 2008 AC/DC played their first show in 5 years. Dedicated fans from all over the world traveled to the small industrial town of Wilkes-Barre, PA to be there. A few select fans were chosen to be featured in this documentary. Their stories reflect the commitment and passion of what it means to be a true AC/DC fan over the years. The documentary can be seen now at ACDCFannation.com.

Black Ice made history debuting at #1 on album charts in 29 countries and also has the distinction of being Columbia Records' biggest debut album (since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales data in 1991). Black Ice has been certified Multi Platinum in eighteen countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Germany, France, Italy, Argentina and the Czech Republic.

Additionally Black Ice has achieved Platinum status in five countries (including the UK and Spain) and Gold status in four countries (The Netherlands, Poland and Brazil). With over 6.5 million copies of Black Ice shipped worldwide, combined with over 5.5 million in catalog sold last year, AC/DC have surpassed The Beatles as the #1 selling catalog artist in the US for 2008. In the US, Black Ice is being sold exclusively at Walmart, Sam's Club, and acdc.com.

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Volunteers Needed to Assist Thousands of AAU Athletes

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:01:29 CST

With the largest annual premier multi-sport event for amateurs now just days away the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC) is making a final push for volunteer support for the 2009 AAU Junior Olympic Games that will be taking place from July 27- August 8, 2009.

“The AAU Junior Olympic Games are a superb opportunity for Greater Des Moines locals to show thousands of athletes, coaches and spectators our strong support for major sporting events,” said Al Lorenzen, DMASC Vice President of Sports and Development. “We encourage all Central Iowans to consider being a part of this top-notch event.”

Volunteers and/or volunteer groups may sign up for one shift, a day or for an entire event at www.DesMoinesSports.com or contact Angela Brodersen, Volunteer Coordinator, at (515) 699-3465 or abrodersen@desmoinescvb.com

Birdman Enters Final Week

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:56:57 CST

Zoo adds a couple extra showtimes, final show will be Sunday, July 26

Joe Krathwohl, better known as “The Birdman,” is in his final week at the Blank Park Zoo.

“This is my return to Iowa after 20 years when I first performed at the State Fair. This time I had a chance to get out and meet people and see the city. I must say I have met the friendliest people here, and have felt very comfortable living here for the summer. I also have to admit that the rainstorms and humidity were a challenge for a birdman from the desert, but thanks to the Blank Park Zoo, the birds were all protected inside a huge tent building and therefore, even the storms became enjoyable,” said Krathwohl.

The show features many birds including an Andean Condor with an approximate wingspan of 10 feet. Other birds rotated between the shows include a Bateleur Eagle, Eagle Owl, Trumpeter Hornbill, Silver Gulls, African Crowned Crane, Emu, Scarlet Macaws, Red Fronted Macaw, Bare Eyed Cockatoo, Rose Breasted Cockatoo, Augur Hawk, Yellow Naped and Double Yellow Headed Amazon and others.

Some of the popular parts of the show include Chester and Lolita's, (Yellow Naped and Double Yellow Headed Amazon Parrots) talking routine, Sugar’s dollar bill trick and of course the huge Andean Condor flying over the audience.

Thousands of people have seen these shows, so the Zoo has added a couple extra performances, a special 6pm show for Zoo Brew as well as at 6pm this Friday at Family Friday Night.

Krathwohl has been a professional bird trainer for over 25 years and has appeared on Leno, Letterman, Animal Planet, The Discovery Channel, and many other major television networks. He has also established the only educational free flight bird show in the popular resorts of Las Vegas. Through the work of his foundation, The World Center for Exotic Birds, Inc., Krathwohl is pursuing the conservation of Andean Condors through a breeding and releasing program.

There will be two shows Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm and 3pm. Three shows will be held on Wednesday and Friday at 1pm, 3pm, and 6pm. You must be 21 to attend the 6pm Wednesday Zoo Brew show.

Three shows will be held on the Saturday and Sunday at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. The show is free with paid admission to the Zoo. The show will runs through Sunday, July 26.

The Blank Park Zoo, Iowa’s WILDEST Adventure, is open everyday 10am-4pm. Admission is $9.95 for adults, $4.95 for children under 12, and $7.95 for seniors and active military. The Zoo is located at 7401 SW 9th St., Des Moines, IA 50315. Visit the Zoo online at . The Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) The AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization that sets rigorous, professional standards for zoos and aquariums. The AZA is building North America's largest wildlife conservation movement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors to its member institutions and their communities to care about and take action to help protect wildlife.

Liukin, Peszek highlight field for �09 CoverGirl Classic

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 19:04:46 CST

Live Universal Sports TV, Web coverage at 8 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. CT

July 16, 2009 – 2008 Olympic all-around champion Nastia Liukin of Parker, Texas, and 2008 Olympic team silver-medalist Samantha Peszek of Indianapolis, Ind., are among 132 women expected to compete in the CoverGirl Classic at Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Des Moines, Iowa. The CoverGirl Classic is the last opportunity for women to qualify for the 2009 Visa Championships in Dallas, Texas, and its field features a combination of gymnasts vying for spots in the Visa Championships and qualified gymnasts using the event as a tune-up for Dallas. For the first time in event history, fans across the country may watch live coverage of the CoverGirl Classic, July 25 on Universal Sports. The television and Web simulcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT.

“I know fans across the country will be excited that Nastia and Sam are beginning their return to competitive gymnastics and that they will have the opportunity to see the CoverGirl Classic, either in person, on TV or on the Web,” said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. “We are proud to partner with Universal Sports to make this event available to fans around the country and throughout the world.”

"When a superstar gymnast returns to competition in a post-Olympic year, it's a tremendous boost for gymnastics," said David Michaels, Universal Sports' Executive Producer. "The new emerging stars can gauge their progress against Olympic Medalists in a competitive situation. The Cover Girl Classic is a tune-up for the Visa Championships in August when a new national champion will be crowned. For Universal Sports, the Cover Girl classic is an historic step in original programming."

Liukin, who won a total of five medals during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, is using the CoverGirl Classic as preparation for her return to competitive gymnastics at the 2009 Visa Championships, Aug. 12-15 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. Liukin, who trains at WOGA, is expected to perform on the balance beam. The CoverGirl Classic is also the first competition since the 2008 Olympic Games for Peszek, who now trains at Sharp’s Gymnastics.

This will be the first live event produced unilaterally by Universal Sports with its own facilities, talent and production team at a remote site. Previously, live events have been produced in conjunction with NBC and other TV entities. "Bringing our audience fresh, new live gymnastics programming is a major goal for our network," said Michaels, who is also a Senior Producer for NBC Olympics and Director of the Gymnastics coverage. "This event opens new horizons for USA Gymnastics and Universal Sports."

U.S. Olympians Tasha Schwikert and John Roethlisberger will call the action for the Universal Sports simulcast, which will run from 7-9 p.m. CT, and Liukin will join the broadcast team following the first rotation as a correspondent on the floor. Universal Sports is available in 56 million homes nationwide. To find Universal Sports in a specific area, go to http://www.universalsports.com. On the Web, live coverage will be available on both usa-gymnastics.org and universalsports.com.

Formerly known as the U.S. Classic, the CoverGirl Classic has competition for international junior and senior levels, as well as the challenge level. Tickets are now on sale: international junior session (1 p.m. on July 25), $20; international senior session, $25; a daily ticket that includes both international sessions, $35; and an all-session ticket that includes both international and the challenge sessions, $50. Tickets may be purchased at the Wells Fargo Arena Box Office, all Dahl's Foods locations, charge by phone at 1.866.55.DAHLS, or online at www.dahlstickets.com. All tickets are general admission. Visa is the preferred method of payment. For more ticketing information, visit www.usa-gymnastics.org/covergirlclassic.

The 2009 Visa Championships, USA Gymnastics’ national championships, are Aug. 12-15 in Dallas, Texas. The U.S. champions for men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, acrobatic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling are determined at the Visa Championships. Artistic gymnastics will be held at American Airlines Center, with rhythmic and acrobatic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling at the Dallas Convention Center. The USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show, held in conjunction with the Visa Championships, will also be at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel. For complete information on the Visa Championships, log on to www.usa-gymnastics.org.

About Universal Sports
Universal Sports, a partnership between NBC Sports and InterMedia Partners, serves as the preeminent multiplatform destination for Olympic-related and lifestyle sports programming available on television and online. Universal Sports is available in 56 million television households, and is now available in nine of the top 10 DMAs including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Francisco, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Houston, Seattle and Denver. Major world championship and Olympic qualifying events found on Universal Sports range from track and field, skiing, swimming, gymnastics, marathons and cycling, to volleyball, rowing, triathlon, fencing, speed skating and martial arts. UniversalSports.com delivers an immersive experience via live and on-demand competition coverage, interaction with top athletes through blogs and in-depth access to Olympic sports news and information year round. For more information on the availability of the Universal Sports 24-hour television channel, please visit UniversalSports.tv.

USA Gymnastics
Based in Indianapolis, USA Gymnastics is the national governing body for gymnastics in the United States. Its mission is to encourage participation and the pursuit of excellence in the sport. Its disciplines include men's and women's artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling, and acrobatic gymnastics. For more information, log on to www.usa-gymnastics.org.

Playhouse Sets New Record with "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid"

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:46:08 CST

The Des Moines Playhouse has a new attendance champion: "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" is the number one non-musical in the theatre's 90-year history. Over the course of the show's three week June run, 6551 people visited the theatre, for a total attendance of 99.5% of capacity.

"The Thunderbolt Kid" was also, financially, the top-selling non-musical in Playhouse history, with $146,096 in ticket sales. The show is the fourth overall, financially, behind "Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story" (2008-09 season), "Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story" (2003-04 season), and the top-selling, "Disney's High School Musical" ($200,481 during the 2006-07 season).

"The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" comes at the close of a popular and critically successful 2008-09 season. Sell-outs and virtual sell-outs this past year include "Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story," "Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business," "Willy Wonka," and "Little House on the Prairie."

"The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" had its world stage debut at The Playhouse, June 12-28. Adapted by John Viars from the international bestseller of the same name by Bill Bryson, the cast of 33 brought to life a story of growing up in Des Moines in the 1950s and 1960s.

John Viars, Playhouse executive director, and the show's adapter and director, said, "'The Thunderbolt Kid' was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that presented challenges and rewards unlike any we've had before, for staff, audiences, and volunteers."

"The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" was sponsored by Farm Bureau Financial Services.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information on The Playhouse and its upcoming season of shows, contact The Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261.

Greater Des Moines Hosts Wing Ding 32

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:52:29 CST

Fifteen years of hard work, persistence and collaboration is paying off today as the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) announces the Annual Summer National Wing Ding will be held in Greater Des Moines June 30-July 3, 2010.

About 11,000 Honda Gold Wing and Valkyrie motorcyclists will roll through Greater Des Moines a year from now. The convention will take place at the Iowa Events Center in Downtown Des Moines. Two parades, a night-time parade complete with lighted motorcycles and a 9-mile long, continuously-rolling parade that is expected to break the Guinness Book of World Records, will be routed through Downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods.

“This has truly been a team effort,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President and CEO. “Our team has been working closely with the hotels, Iowa Events Center, City of Des Moines, Gary Fox and the Transportation Division, police department and fire department to make this happen.”

Vicki Comegys, GDMCVB Vice President of Sales and Services, has personally been working on this project for 15 years. “We are thrilled to host Wing Ding 32 in Greater Des Moines. GWRRA decided now is the time to hold this event here due to our affordability, central location and progressive downtown with amazing amenities and green space.”

Melissa Eason, GWRRA Executive Director, said in a newsletter to all GWRRA members, “For those of you who have not been to Des Moines, it is a beautiful city with twin rivers and brand new facilities. The riding in the area is surprisingly beautiful with rolling hills, fantastic food and fabulous restaurants.”

Wing Ding 32 will coincide with Goodguys 19^th Heartland Rod and Custom Nations, which runs July 2-4, 2010.

Greater Des Moines Packed With Visitors

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:02:39 CST

The Des Moines Arts Festival, ArtFest Midwest, Hy-Vee Triathlon and Big Country Bash helped push thousands of additional visitors into Greater Des Moines over the weekend with another jam-packed weekend just days away.

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) is still quantifying numbers on these specific events to come up with an overall economic impact. Hotel-motel rooms throughout the Metro were 88 percent occupied (on average). Based on these occupancy numbers we conservatively estimate an impact of over $4.6 million being directly spent on hotels, retail, transportation, dining and entertainment. This coming weekend will bring 80/35 Music Festival, 16^th Goodguys 3M Car Care Heartland Nationals and numerous Independence Day celebrations, events that are expected to generate additional economic impact on Greater Des Moines.

“This is great news,” said GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. “When you take a look at national trends and economic reports for the country, Greater Des Moines is doing well. Our region’s affordability and central location help tourism remain strong here. Top notch events give visitors even more reasons to visit our community. When those visitors do make the trip, we’re proud to greet them with Midwestern hospitality.”

An increase in advertising specifically in Omaha/Council Bluffs, Kansas City is also contributing to this summer’s strong visitor numbers. Television ads kicked off the first week of June, coupled with on-line and print advertising and radio promotions. These efforts have already boosted visitor inquiries from those areas. The GDMCVB increased advertising this year by adding Blank Park Zoo and Iowa Events Center to the cooperative TV advertising campaign. Adventureland, Prairie Meadows, Science Center of Iowa and Iowa Speedway continue to be strong participants in the summer GDMCVB TV advertising campaigns.

Local Des Moines Fencing Club Members to Compete

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:03:49 CST

All fencers qualified through tournaments held earlier in the season. Leading the charge will be Heartland Circuit champions Preston Kirkpatrick and Bethany Dorin. Kirkpatrick, of Des Moines, will compete in Division II men's sabre on July 8 and and Division III men's sabre on July 10. Dorin, of Pleasant Hill, will compete in Division II women's foil on July 9.

Also representing DMFC:

·         Jack Fitzpatrick of Des Moines, 12-and-under men's foil, July 4

·         Reid Wade of Des Moines, 12-and-under men's sabre, July 6

·         Allison Crawford of Granger, Division III women's sabre, July 9, and Division II women's sabre, July 12;

·         R. J. Lesch of Adel, veteran's men's sabre, July 12;

·         Nile Engelhardt of Waukee, who will join Kirkpatrick and Lesch in the men's sabre team event, July 9.

For more information, visit the Des Moines Fencing Club website at http://home.mchsi.com/~dmfc.

The Des Moines Playhouse Presents "Disney's High School Musical 2"

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:37:12 CST

The Des Moines Playhouse celebrates summer with the family musical phenomenon, "Disney's High School Musical 2," July 17-August 9. Tickets may be purchased at The Playhouse ticket office, by phone at 515-277-6261, and online at dmplayhouse.com. "Disney's High School Musical 2" is sponsored by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa.

School's out! Troy, Gabriella, Chad, Taylor, and Kelsi are spending the summer together, working at Lava Springs Country Club, owned by Sharpay and Ryan Evan's dad. Sharpay is up to her old tricks of trying to catch Troy. Will it mean the end of Troy and Gabriella when Troy agrees to sing with Sharpay in the club's annual talent show? Alliances switch as Ryan deserts Sharpay to help the Wildcats with their talent show number. Who will come out on top? And at what cost?

"Disney's High School Musical 2" is a fun and fresh new stage version of the hugely popular movie. The Playhouse is proud to present this sequel to our record-setting summer 2007 musical, "Disney's High School Musical."

The "Disney's High School Musical 2" cast of 22 features Dustin Thomas as Troy Bolton, Kelsey Waugaman as Gabriella Montez, Katelyn Thompson as Sharpay Evans, Michael Heath as Chad Danforth and Noby Edwards as Taylor McKessie. The show is directed by Todd Buchacker, with musical direction by Brenton Brown and choreography by David Decker.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information about The Playhouse and "Disney's High School Musical 2" contact The Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261.

"Disney's High School Musical 2" Performances: July 17-August 9, 2009
7:30 p.m. Wednesday/Thursday
8:00 p.m. Friday/Saturday
2:00 p.m. Sunday

"Disney's High School Musical 2" Tickets
Available through The Playhouse box office, 831 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA 50132;
by phone at 515-277-6261; and online at dmplayhouse.com.
$35 Adult Section A / $20 Adult Section B
$32 Senior (62+) Section A / $20 Senior Section B
$20 Student

Group reservations for groups of 20 or more should be made by calling 515-255-3741 ext. 211 or toll-free 1-877-862-5621 ext. 211.

Historical Museum exhibits to close on state holidays, Mondays

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:04:00 CST

The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs today announced changes in hours of operation for the State Historical Museum beginning next month, a move that will save money while allowing more time for maintenance and upkeep of museum exhibits.

Museum exhibits will be closed on official state holidays and Mondays. In addition, the Iowa Museum Store will close on official state holidays, Sundays and Mondays; and Café Baratta’s will reduce its hours on Mondays. The changes go into effect July 1, 2009.

“Traditionally, most museums are closed on Mondays so they can do housekeeping and maintenance duties in their exhibit areas,” Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Director Cyndi Pederson said. “This change will help us do more to maintain our exhibits while at the same time save tax dollars.”

The State Historical Building houses DCA’s administrative offices and two divisions: the Iowa Arts Council and the State Historical Society of Iowa, which oversees the State Historical Museum, the Iowa Museum Store, State Historical Library and Special Collections, State Archives and Records Program and the State Historic Preservation Office. The building also houses Café Baratta’s and the Iowa Historical Foundation.

DCA, IAC and SHSI offices will continue to be open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, and closed on Saturdays, Sundays and official state holidays. The State Historical Library and Archives Reading Room will continue to be open 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. It is closed Sundays, Mondays and official state holidays.

Following is a list of new hours of operation:

State Historical Museum
9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
Noon-4:30 p.m. Sunday
Closed Monday and official state holidays

The Iowa Museum Store
9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
Closed Sunday, Monday and official state holidays

Café Baratta’s
8 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Friday
11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and Monday
Closed Sunday and official state holidays

SHSI previously announced changes in hours of operation at its eight historical sites beginning July 1, 2009. More information is available at iowahistory.org.

Playhouse Adds Performances of "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid"

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:44:14 CST

The Des Moines Playhouse has added a performance of "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid." "The Thunderbolt Kid" is sponsored by Farm Bureau Financial Services, with the support of the W.T. and Edna M. Dahl Trust. Opening week ticket sales have resulted in an additional performance at 6:30 PM on Sunday, June 28. Tickets are also available for the originally scheduled performances through June 28. Tickets are $20-35 and may be purchased at the Playhouse box office, by phone at 515-277-6261, and online at dmplayhouse.com.

Based on the bestselling reminiscence by Bill Bryson, "The Thunderbolt Kid" is warm, funny, and ultimately universal. Bryson tells the story of his youthful adventures at a simpler time in a place familiar to many of us: Des Moines in the 1950s and 1960s.

On Thursday, June 18, The Playhouse and Le Jardin restaurant will host Dinner With the Director. Over a three-course gourmet dinner, "Thunderbolt Kid" director and Playhouse executive director, John Viars, will discuss the play's themes and share backstage stories. Dinner at Le Jardin, in the Shops at Roosevelt, is at 5:30 p.m. Tickets for Dinner With the Director, meal only, are $30 per person and available at The Playhouse ticket office.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information on The Playhouse and "The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" contact The Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261.

"The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" Performances: June 12-28, 2009
7:30 p.m. Wednesday/Thursday
8:00 p.m. Friday/Saturday
2:00 p.m. Sunday
6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28, only

"The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid" Tickets:
Available through The Playhouse ticket office, 831 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA 50312; by phone at 515-277-6261; and online at dmplayhouse.com
$35 Adult Section A / $20 Adult Section B
$32 Senior (62+) Section A / $20 Senior Section B
$20 Student

Downtown Farmers� Market Adds Free Valet Bike Parking

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:10:58 CST

The Downtown Farmers’ Market has added a new service for friends on two-wheels: a free Bike Valet. This free service is located on the street level of the 2nd and Court Parking ramp and is now available 7:30 a.m.–Noon every Saturday during the Downtown Farmers’ Market season. The Bike Valet is a collaborative effort with the Des Moines Bicycle Collective, DriveTimeDesMoines.org and the Downtown Farmers’ Market.

The Bike Valet allows cyclists to ride their bikes to the Market and park them safely while they shop and explore Downtown Des Moines. This free service is operated by a Bike Collective staff person. Cyclists park their bikes on special racks in the bike corral, which is in a secure, safe area in the parking ramp. In addition to free parking, the Bike Valet will offer a mini workshop on tire changing and also offers an air pump.

“This new service says a lot about downtown Des Moines events and how cyclists are becoming an important part of the mix,” explains Kent Newman, Vice Chair of Des Moines Bike Collective. “Several new trail connections that have been completed in the last year make it even easier to get downtown. And this really is the best parking at the Downtown Farmers Market.”

Saturday, June 13, is the grand opening for the Bike Valet. The first 100 patrons who ride their bike to the Market and park in the Bike Valet will receive a Market Buck as a thank you, valued at $1 to be used toward any purchase at any of the Downtown Farmers’ Market vendors. Market Manager Kelly Foss is hopeful this new service will encourage more people to ride their bikes to the Market now that they have a dedicated place to park.

“DriveTimeDesMoines.org is proud to be a sponsor of the free bike valet parking,” says Dana Conn, manager for the Transportation Management Association. “Bike commuters help ease traffic and parking congestion every day in greater Des Moines, and will do the same for the 20,000 people who visit the Farmers’ Market each Saturday.”

Bike Valet parking will also be available at Nitefall on the River, Des Moines Arts Festival and 80/35 Music Festival. For more information about the Downtown Farmers’ Market visit DesMoinesFarmersMarket.com or become a fan on Facebook. The page name is Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market.

Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity Build at Des Moines Arts Festival

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 13:10:13 CST

The Des Moines Arts Festival has partnered with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity to build a house! See the three-day Blitz Build on the Festival site from June 26-28, 2009, in Western Gateway Park! The action begins at the Festival building site on Locust St. with an official wall raising at Noon on Friday, June 26.

Festival guests can get involved in the action by helping to paint Doors to a Brighter Future at the building site. Doors, purchased from Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, will feature unique paint-by-number designs created by volunteers from Principal Financial Group® and around the community. Festival guests will have the chance to help paint in the design, and then eight of these completed door works of art will be installed as interior doors in the finished house.

Guests will also be able to get creative and add their own special touch to a picket fence that will be assembled around the house as the Festival weekend goes by.

By Sunday, the exterior of the house will be complete and guests will be able to tour the inside of the house before it is hooked up to a truck and driven to its permanent location at 1317 College Street in Des Moines.

The house, 1,056 finished-square-feet including three bedrooms and a front porch, will be purchased by Alicia, mother of two sons, Jaythan (8) and James (4). Almost a year ago, Alicia decided to move in with her grandparents in order to save money and address her financial obligations. She has worked hard to purchase a house from Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, and hopes to one day go back to school and obtain her PhD in Pharmacy.

Founded in 1986, Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity partners with the community to provide decent and affordable homeownership for qualified low-income families. In 2008, GDM Habitat dedicated their 100th home in Des Moines. In 2009, they will build or rehabilitate 22 homes. For more information visit gdmhabitat.org.

The Des Moines Arts Festival is presented by The Des Moines Register, founded by the Des Moines Art Center and produced by Downtown Events Group. The Festival is sponsored by Prairie Meadows, Principal Financial Group®, Bank of the West, GuideOne Insurance, Hubbell Homes, Hy-Vee and Meredith Corporation. For more information on the Des Moines Arts Festival visit desmoinesartsfestival.org.

Perfect Score Five Years in a Row

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:02:58 CST

Des Moines International Airport (DSM) officials are announcing the Airport’s fifth consecutive perfect inspection by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors. (The actual FAA terminology is “no discrepancies found.”)

“This is a great testimonial to the professionalism of all the Airport’s employees. The annual inspections are very detailed. A finding of no discrepancies is rare, let alone doing it five years running”, states Airside Deputy Director Ken McCoy. “It takes a lot of hard work by all of our employees to be this successful.”

Aviation Director Craig Smith points out, “Central Iowa air travelers can feel confident that they are flying out of a very safe airport. Only a few airports each year get a perfect score.”

For more information, visit dsmairport.com.

VIP Tours Offer Lasting Memories and Chance to Support Great Ape Trust's Scientific Research

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:28:53 CST

Are you a parent looking for a one-of-a-kind experience your children will remember for a lifetime, an executive searching for a way to reward exemplary employees or entertain A-level clients, or a member of a civic organization who’s in charge of planning an outing that will be both educational and enlightening?

A $2,500 VIP Membership to Great Ape Trust may be the answer in all three circumstances. VIP member tours accommodate groups of up to 50 people, which can reduce the cost of the visit to $50. Visits can be tailored to the size of the group and, to the extent possible, respond to an individual group’s interests. In general, the smaller the group, the more intimate the experience with The Trust’s orangutan and bonobo residents.

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Great Ape Trust each year receives dozens of requests from families, civic groups, schools, clubs and other nonprofit groups asking to visit the 230-acre campus, learn more about breakthrough scientific research and be in the presence of great apes. The membership program is designed to strike a balance between the public’s interest in visiting with the proprietary needs of the breakthrough scientific research.

“We’ve offered private tours to small groups for the past several years and they’ve been very rewarding for those members, however, they were limited to about six people,” said James Aipperspach, operations director at Great Ape Trust. “Because of increased interest for private tours, as well as the current economy, we decided to expand to include larger groups and accommodate those needs.”

By supporting Great Ape Trust at the VIP level, members also get the satisfaction of knowing that they are significantly supporting Great Ape Trust’s breakthrough scientific research on great ape intelligence and behavior, and conservation efforts in Indonesia and Rwanda to preserve the habitat wild great apes depend upon for survival.

For example, a $2,500 contribution pays for:

Food, supplies and veterinary care to six orangutans for one month;
The salary of one ecoguard with the Gishwati Area Conservation Program in Rwanda for one year;
Two months’ salary for a research assistant at the chimpanzee field station in the Gishwati Area Conservation Program;
Outfitting costs for five Gishwati Area Conservation Program ecoguards, including GPS devices, backpacks, rain gear, boots, compasses, watches, flashlights and binoculars);
Salary, food and equipment for a research assistant at the Ketambe Research Center in Indonesia for one year;
Food, equipment and travel expenses for two Indonesian students conducting research for their bachelor’s degrees at Ketambe for one year.

Great Ape Trust members at the VIP level can tailor their visits. One group, for example, brought fresh garden flowers to the bonobos and Panbanisha took a turn at arranging them. Great Ape Trust photo.

The VIP tours are scheduled on Friday afternoons. VIP visits have been booked in June, but several dates remain available in July, August, September and October. VIP tours will not be conducted on July 3. To buy a membership at the VIP level, please call (515) 243-3580 and a Great Ape Trust representative will assist you in scheduling a tour and working out details that will make for a memorable experience.

Memberships to Great Ape Trust support breakthrough scientific research on great ape intelligence and behavior, great ape habitat conservation efforts in Rwanda and Indonesia, education initiatives, and other operational costs. Great Ape Trust has a $3.5 million operating budget, which is funded by contributions from Founder Ted Townsend and other individuals, memberships, the sale of merchandise, royalties, site fees and grant funding supporting the research, conservation and education initiatives.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Great Ape Trust of Iowa is a scientific research facility in southeast Des Moines dedicated to understanding the origins and future of culture, language, tools and intelligence. When completed, Great Ape Trust will be the largest great ape facility in North America and one of the first worldwide to include all four types of great ape – bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans – for noninvasive interdisciplinary studies of their cognitive and communicative capabilities.

Great Ape Trust is dedicated to providing sanctuary and an honorable life for great apes, studying the intelligence of great apes, advancing conservation of great apes and providing unique educational experiences about great apes. Great Ape Trust of Iowa is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization and is certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

For more information, contact:

Al Setka
Director of Communications
Great Ape Trust of Iowa
4200 S.E. 44th Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50320
(515) 243-3580
(515) 720-7430 (cell)
asetka@greatapetrust.org

Beth Dalbey
Communications Editor
Great Ape Trust of Iowa
4200 S.E. 44th Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50320
(515) 243-3580
(515) 314-6773 (cell)
bdalbey@greatapetrust.org

Celebrate National Trails Weekend June 5-7

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:35:41 CST

The Des Moines area boasts one of the best trail networks in the nation. Celebrate all that this area has to offer by participating in one of several Trail Daze events that have been scheduled for the weekend of June 5-7, National Trails Weekend!

Des Moines River Water Trail Designation
Prospect Park, Des Moines
Friday, June 5, 5 p.m.
Kick off National Trails Weekend by celebrating the Des Moines River Water Trail official designation. Following a brief ceremony, paddle or drive the Historic River Bend Home for snacks and refreshments, then to Birdland Park, then to the John Anderson White Riverboat.
Prospect Park (1225 Prospect Rd., DSM) Sponsored by: Friends of Central Iowa Trails

Bike United Against Cancer Ride
Saturday, June 6, 7 a.m.
Ride either a 44-mile or 22-mile bike loop for cancer awareness. A $20 registration includes a t-shirt, breakfast in Water Works Park, lunch in Principal Park, and ticket to the I-Cubs game.
Begin at Water Works Park Sponsored by LiveStrong Army/DM & Cityview

Register at bikeiowa.com.

Farmers' Market Bike Ride
Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m.
Ride to the Downtown Farmers Market from Ankeny or Clive. Meet at either Kyle‚s Bikes in Ankeny (1840 SW White Birch Circle) or at the Clive Aquatic Center (1801 NW 114th St.).
Sponsored by Des Moines Cycle Club.

More details through Dan Kruzic at dkruzic@deezee.com or dmcycleclub.com.

Trails & Trills Ride
Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m.
Enjoy live music up and down eight miles of the Raccoon River Valley Trail between Jefferson and Cooper.
Meet at Jefferson Depot Sponsored by Raccoon River Valley Trail Association
More details at raccoonrivervalleytrail.org.

Marathon Prep Run or Walk
Saturday, June 6, 6 a.m.
Runners and walkers training for marathons and half marathons can take a 4 or 8 mile route.
Clive Trail & 86th St. (behind Grease Monkey) Sponsored by Team in Training/IA Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

More details from Kara Vannordstrand at kara.vannordstrand@lls.org or (515) 270-6169.

Iowa Geocachers Event
Saturday, June 6, 10:30 a.m.
Twenty caches will be hidden in Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines for a enjoyable day of geocaching. Bring food for grilling after the event. Sponsored by Iowa Geocachers.

More details by emailing president@iowageocachers.org.

Canoe/Kayak Float
Saturday, June 6, 10:30 a.m.
Paddle from the Sycamore boat ramp to Prospect Park. Bring your own boat and lunch.

More details by emailing Bill Graham at wsgraham3@gmail.com.

Rowing Novice Day
Saturday, June 6, 8-2 p.m.
Novice rowers are encouraged to learn rowing basics from members of the Des Moines Rowing Club. Meet at the steel building just west of Gray‚s Lake Beach.

For more details, contact Angela Price at angela_price@adp.com.

Family Skate
Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m.
Meet at B Bop's in Windsor Heights (1105-73rd) for a 6-8 mile family skate. Stick around for lunch or ice cream after the skate (at your expense).

More details by calling Quentin Huston at drquentinhuston@hotmail.com or (515) 288-8058.

Adult Skate
Saturday, June 6, 6 p.m.
Meet at Pal Joey‚s Lounge near 62nd and Grand in Des Moines for a 12-15 mile adult skate on the Walnut Creek Trail. Social afterward at Pal Joey's.

More details by calling Quentin Huston at drquentinhuston@hotmail.com or (515) 288-8058.

Volkssport Triathlon
Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m.
Meet at Valley View Park in West Des Moines for a casual triathlon (pool swim, trail bike, and walk) sponsored by the Greater Des Moines Volkssport Association and West Des Moines Parks and Recreation. Participants can complete one, two, or all three events.

For more details, contact Susan Pinneke at (515) 277-3653 or ava.org/clubs/GreaterDesMoinesVolkssportAssn.

Bird Walk
Sunday, June 7, 8 a.m.
Bring your binoculars and go on a bird walk with a trained interpreter.
Meet at Ashworth Pool parking lot in Greenwood Park. Hosted by Des Moines Audubon Society
More details by calling Jane Clark at jrclark@radiks.net or (515) 223-5047.

Sunday Greenbelt Run
Sunday, June 7, 8 a.m.
Out and back trail run (10 mile run) and adjourn for an hour of socializing after the run.
Clive Trail & 86th Street (behind Grease Monkey) Sponsored by Capital Striders Running Club

More details by calling Ed Bell at ed.bell@drake.edu or (515) 223-5959.

Geocaching 101
Sunday, June 7, 10 a.m.

Learn about what these GPS devices and caches are all about. Loners will be provided.
Meet at Ashworth Pool in Greenwood Park (Des Moines) Sponsored by Iowa Geocachers.

More details from Scott Mills at scott.mills@clarkliftdsm.com.

Bike Sunday School
Sunday, June 7 4 p.m.
Leisure ride and picnic to celebrate the French Trinity.
Meet at Gateway Market (MLK Pkwy. & Woodland Ave.)

More details from Mary Moore at mkmoore47@netzero.net or (515) 250-2796.

Gavin Degraw and Collective Soul to Headline Free Concert

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:22:13 CST

Gavin DeGraw and Collective Soul will headline a FREE concert in downtown Des Moines on Friday, June 26, 2009. Sarah Benck and Green River Ordinance will open. The concert on the U.S. Cellular Stage kicks off the annual Des Moines Arts Festival and is proudly presented by Hy-Vee in celebration of the Hy-Vee Triathlon and sponsored by Budweiser. Collective Soul will take the stage at 7 p.m. with Gavin DeGraw to close the night at 8:45 p.m.

The Friday night concert is part of a complete weekend of music and entertainment. The Festival and all performances are free to attend. Limited VIP seating will be available to lucky Arts Festival guests. To win your VIP experience, listen to Star 102.5 or look for details at www.desmoinesartsfestival.org.

For a schedule of 2009 Des Moines Arts Festival live music and entertainment, visit http://www.desmoinesartsfestival.org/features/live_music.php.

Gavin DeGraw and Collective Soul’s stop in Des Moines is part of a multi-city summer tour beginning in Cleveland, Ohio, on June 22.

The internationally-recognized Des Moines Arts Festival features 175 professional visual artists in the juried art fair in 14 categories, 24 student artists in the Emerging Iowa Artists program, live artist demonstrations, family and children’s interactive arts activities, street theatre, eclectic food booths, Interrobang Film Festival, art from Iowa students in grades K-12 in the Nurturing a Student’s Vision Program and much more!

The Des Moines Arts Festival is presented by The Des Moines Register, founded by the Des Moines Art Center and produced by Downtown Events Group. The Festival is sponsored by Prairie Meadows, Principal Financial Group®, Aviva, Bank of the West, BRAVO! Greater Des Moines, Des Moines Radio Group, Doll Distributing LLC, GuideOne Insurance, Hubbell Homes, Hy-Vee, Iowa Public Radio, Meredith Corporation, Pioneer Hi-Bred, U.S. Cellular and WHO-TV 13.

Red Pandas Arrive at Zoo

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:24:28 CST

Are they bears or raccoons? Actually they are neither. It depends on who you talk to, but there is no doubt the pair of endangered red pandas that arrived at the Blank Park Zoo is so cute they could give Shawn Johnson a run for her spot on People Magazine’s most beautiful list. They have made their home in Iowa and are ready for the “oohs” and “ahhs” of guests.

This exhibit marks the first of many projects of the Blank Park Zoo’s $40 million capital campaign. A ground-breaking ceremony for an outdoor red panda exhibit was held today and should be completed by mid-summer. Zoo guests will be able to see the red pandas now in their indoor exhibit.

“With the addition of the red pandas, the golden-headed tamarins and the Birdman of Las Vegas, this summer is going to be spectacular at the Blank Park Zoo,” said Michael Hubbell, Interim CEO of the Blank Park Zoo.

“Parents and children will easily fall in love with these animals,” said Chad Comer, Animal Curator. “Not only will the Zoo exhibit a great animal, but we are participating in the Species Survival Plan to ensure they will be around for future generations.”

The red pandas are funded in part by a gift from the W.T. & Edna M. Dahl Trust.

Other major Blank Park Zoo Expansion gifts include:

City of Des Moines
William and Susan Knapp
Elizabeth Kruidenier
Jim and Helen Hubbell
Meredith Corporation Foundation
Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines
Blank Family Foundation
Bob and Gloria Burnett
Prairie Meadows
Stan and Dotty Thurston
Tim and Toni Urban

Funds are still being raised for the remaining Blank Park Zoo expansion projects.

Facts about the Red Panda:

Cane, the male red panda, was born at the Knoxville Zoo in Tennessee. His birth date is
June 20, 2002. He was hand raised by the staff in Knoxville.

Kitar, the female red panda, was born Dec 8, 1999 at the Wellington Zoo Trust in New Zealand. She arrived in Knoxville in 2007 and she was raised by her parents.

Unlike the Giant Pandas, they are not a bear. Instead, they are their own independent family called Alivridae.. Many think they are related to the raccoon or family of Procyonidae, but this is based on superficial similarities and is incorrect. There are believed to be less than 2500 mature adults in existence today. They have already become extinct in 4 of the 7 Chinese provinces. The major threats to red pandas are loss and fragmentation of habitat due to deforestation (and the resulting loss of bamboo) for timber, fuel and agricultural land; poaching for the pet and fur trades; and competition from domestic livestock.

In the wild they live in conifer and deciduous forests of the Himalayas and other mountain ranges of Southwest China.

The red panda eats mostly bamboo. Like the Giant Panda, it cannot digest cellulose, so it must consume a large volume of bamboo to survive. Its diet consists of about two-thirds bamboo, but they also eat berries, fruit, mushrooms, roots, acorns, lichen, grasses, and they are known to supplement their diet with young birds, fish, eggs, small rodents, and insects on occasion. In captivity they will readily eat meat. Red pandas are excellent climbers and forage largely in trees.

Red pandas typically give birth to two cubs. Gestation for red pandas is just over four months, roughly 134 days. The life span of a Red Panda is 15 to 18 years.

Red pandas have heat, but no cold limitations. Zoo officials indicated the Iowa zoo is ideal for the creatures because they will have access to air conditioning indoors when it is to hot for them to be in an outdoor exhibit.

The Blank Park Zoo, Iowa’s WILDEST Adventure, is open everyday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is $9.95 for adults, $4.95 for children under 12, and $7.95 for seniors and active military. The Zoo is located at 7401 SW 9th St., Des Moines, IA 50315. Visit the Zoo online at . The Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) The AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization that sets rigorous, professional standards for zoos and aquariums. The AZA is building North America's largest wildlife conservation movement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors to its member institutions and their communities to care about and take action to help protect wildlife.

Julianne Hough, Matt Nathanson, Jaci Velasquesz Among "State Fair Time" Stars

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 13 May 2009 13:53:06 CST

The Iowa State Fair free stage line-up features some of the nation’s biggest stars – all free with gate admission. The 2009 Fair runs August 13-23.

Julianne Hough (“That Song in My Head”) was recently named CMA’s Top New Female Vocalist and received the association’s fan-based Top New Artist Award. Matt Nathanson’s hit single “Come On Get Higher” has been climbing the charts and Jaci Velasquez’s smooth sounds blend genres from Christian to Latin to pop.

A complete listing of event dates, times and locations follows:

Anderson Erickson Dairy Stage sponsored by KCCI NewsChannel 8

August 13-15: The Nadas (7 & 9 p.m.)

August 16: Authentic Records Live (begins at Noon): Benjamin Wagner, Mike Himebaugh of Hello Dave, She Swings, She Sways, Bonne Finken, Fat Andy, Todd Pipes of Deep Blue Something, Dick Prall, The Josh Davis Band

August 17: Coolio (8 p.m.)

August 18: Black Stone Cherry (8 p.m.)

August 19-20: Hairball (7 & 9 p.m.)

August 21-22: The Blue Band (7 & 9 p.m.)

August 23: Matt Nathanson (8 p.m.)

Anne and Bill Riley Stage sponsored by Pepsi

August 13: Drew Seeley (8 p.m.)

August 14: Sioux City Rockestra (7 & 9 p.m.)

August 15-17: Hypnotist Ron Diamond (7 & 9 p.m.)

August 18-21: Vocal Trash (7 & 9 p.m.)

August 22: Bill Riley All-Star Show (7 p.m.)

August 23: Jaci Velasquez (8 p.m.)

Budweiser Stage sponsored by ABC5

August 13-14: Firefall (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 15-16: Head East (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 17-18: Pure Prairie League (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 19-21: Papa Doo Run Run (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 22: Richie Lee and the Fabulous Fifties (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 23: Richie Lee and the Fabulous Fifties (6 & 8 p.m.)

Susan Knapp Amphitheater sponsored by Chevrolet with media sponsor KDSM FOX 17

August 13: Trailer Choir (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 14: Jace Everett (8 p.m.)

August 15: Heidi Newfield (8 p.m.)

August 16: Randy Houser (8 p.m.)

August 17-19: Jason Brown (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 19: Jerrod Niemann (Noon & 2 p.m.)

August 20: Country Gold (6 & 8:30 p.m.)

August 21: Lo Cash Cowboys (7:30 & 9:30 p.m.)

August 22: Lost Trailers (8 p.m.)

August 23: Julianne Hough (7 p.m.)

Hy-Vee Fun Forest Stage (all shows ASL interpreted)

August 13-23: Denise Shipler presented by VSA of Iowa (11 a.m., 1, 3 & 4:30 p.m., no 11:00 show on Friday, August 14th due to VSA Opening Ceremonies.)

August 13-23: Steve Trash - Green Magic Show (11:30 a.m., 1:30 & 3:30 p.m., no 11:30 show on Friday, August 14th due to VSA Opening Ceremonies.)

August 13-23: The Rhinestone Roper Show (Noon, 2 & 4 p.m.)

“State Fair Time” in 2009 is set August 13-23. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

Approval of Vets Expansion Expected to Generate Convention Business

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 12 May 2009 14:04:26 CST

The vote to expand Iowa Events Center, specifically Veterans Memorial Auditorium, has been approved.

Polk County Supervisors approved a resolution today that should help draw more convention business to Greater Des Moines. Leaders voted unanimously to spend nearly $42 million to renovate and expand Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Downtown Des Moines, Iowa.

“This expansion opens up more opportunities for conventions to be brought in to the city,” says Vicki Comegys, Vice President of Sales and Services at the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB). “We are thrilled to now give meeting planners across the country more options and more space in Greater Des Moines. We strongly believe this will lead to increased bookings and more exposure for the city.”

The expansion, which will include the addition of a grand ballroom and several meeting rooms, will allow Des Moines to compete with other cities in the region for meetings and conventions.

“Convention-goers like their meeting spaces to be connected,” says Greg Edwards, GDMCVB President and CEO. “The expansion of Veterans Memorial Auditorium is critical in getting larger conventions to Des Moines. This is a great day in Des Moines’ history.”

The GDMCVB has been involved in discussions throughout the plan development phase. The expansion is estimated to bring 15-16 additional regional/national events within the first 3-5 years of project completion. Regional and national conventions are expected to grow to 43 events by year 10. This is expected to result in convention related visitor spending of $38.8 million, according to Economics Research Associates April 2008 study.

Interview Potentials:

Greg Edwards, President and CEO, GDMCVB – The impact of today’s decision.
Vicki Comegys, VP of Sales and Services, GDMCVB - Selling Greater Des Moines, nationwide.
Meeting planners that have wanted to hold their large events/meetings in Des Moines; approval of space now allows them to consider moving their event to Des Moines.

Vacation Planning Remains Strong in Midwest

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 13:27:23 CST

National Tourism Week (May 9-17) brings good news for the Midwest travel and tourism industry.

Midwesterners’ vacation plans for 2009 double the national average despite economic concerns, according to a recently released Meredith Travel Group Study and Travel Omnibus Study. The study shows Midwesterners are more likely to take shorter vacations, while the rest of the country is more like to cancel their getaways in 2009.

In 2008, the United States and Midwest population averaged two vacations per year. The total population will average 1.2 vacations in 2009, below the Midwestern average of two vacations this year.

The Travel Group Study also shows that Midwesterners are more likely to plan their vacations, rather than take last minute getaways. Approximately 22-percent of respondents say they plan to take, or have taken, more vacations than they normally would. Nearly 50-percent of Midwestern travelers say their vacations have been road trips over the last three years.

“We see this as an encouraging sign of the upcoming summer travel season for Greater Des Moines,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President and CEO. “Our proactive advertising efforts will help make sure travelers throughout the region know how affordable Greater Des Moines is.”

Year-to-date, the GDMCVB has seen a 21-percent increase in visitor inquiries over last year, with significant growth in website and phone inquiries.

Iowa is ranked as the fourth most affordable state to vacation in according to the AAA 2008 Vacation Costs Survey.

The GDMCVB has special offers, hotel packages and coupons available at SeeDesMoines.com.

Spring Art Market

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 17:14:52 CST

Historic Valley Junction will hold its annual Spring Art Market from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, May 17. One hundred Iowa and regional artists and craftspeople will have their booths located on 5th Street in West Des Moines, in the heart of Historic Valley Junction. This year's Art Market artists come from eight states.

A wide variety of items will be available at this juried art show, including paintings, prints, sculpture, photography, pottery, jewelry, furniture, clothing, stained glass, fiber and much more.

Musical entertainment will be part of the festivities as well, with performances by Mary McAdams, playing acoustic folk and traditional Americana, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.; Mikiel Williams, performing music inspired by New Orleans, from 1-3 p.m. and folk musician Joel Kinser from 3-5 p.m.

With the help of Valley Junction and West Bank, Glenda Johnson will be offering an assortment of fun Spring art activities for children including tie-dye butterflies, pinwheels to decorate, keys chains, scratch art, and a Spring craft surprise. There will also be an exhibition featuring artwork by elementary school students from West Des Moines Community Schools.

Historic Valley Junction is six square blocks of antique and specialty shops, art galleries, fashion boutiques, hair salons, service businesses, and restaurants. Many of these businesses will be open to the public during Art Market.

The Art Market will be held rain or shine. Admission is free.

8th Annual Blues Before Sunset Starts June 5

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 18:17:21 CST

The State Historical Society of Iowa today announced its 2009 Blues Before Sunset concert series schedule, with blues bands performing the first Friday of each month from June through September.

Now in its 8th season, the 2009 Blues Before Sunset concert series features:

June 5: Hot Tamale & The Red Hots
July 3: Sumpin' Doo
August 7: El Dorados
September 4: Bob Pace Band with Steve George

Each concert will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. the first Friday of June, July, August and September in front of the State Historical Building, 600 E Locust in Des Moines. Blues Before Sunset is free and family-friendly with beer, wine and assorted beverages for sale. Food vendors will be on site and guests are encouraged to bring their own seating.

BBS kicks off June 5, 2009, in conjunction with the Historic East Village's three-day "Blooms 'n' Blues" weekend, which also features The Des Moines Botanical Center's 2nd Annual Flower Power 5k run/walk and 1-mile walk June 6; and the East Village Flower Power Market, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., with flower vendors on the streets, and restaurants and stores open June 7.

Blues Before Sunset is sponsored by the State Historical Society of Iowa with promotional support from 100.3 The BUS and Capital 106.3, "quality music from then and now," and additional support from Baratta's restaurant and the Central Iowa Blues Society.

Friday Fest "Homegrown in Iowa" Music Series

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 18:22:05 CST

Friday Fest events offer entertainment throughout the summer. Join us for a spectacular evening of music, kid's activities, inflatable games, arts and crafts, and lots of food, beverages, shopping and fun. The Family Feud Game will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Raccoon Valley Bank. Additions this year include: car shows, basketball tournaments, and antique shows.

The “Homegrown in Iowa” music series features Black Diamond. They are a country/rock band that plays many Iowa venues including the Iowa State Fair each summer. The band has been around for approximately 16 years. They display classic and modern country as well as their own compositions. Members include: Randy Benge, Kurt Wooldridge, Lauren Brown, John Schockley, & Mark Pastl.

The beverage garden will be provided by Breadeaux Pizza located on Warford Street in front of the stage. So bring your lawn chairs downtown as well as the entire family, friends, and neighbors to join you for a FUN night out!

Other "Homegrown in Iowa" music series acts include:

Jo & Vicki Price, June 12
David Zollo and The Body Electric, July 17
Pocket Full of Nickels, August 21

Tropical Steel Featured on May 23 at Yellow Banks Park

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 19 May 2009 16:44:22 CST

Be entertained by Tropical Steel over the Memorial Day Weekend at Yellow Banks Park from 6-8 p.m. on the evening of May 23.

Tropical Steel, featuring Stan Dahl, will perform a variety of Caribbean-based music with rhythmic beats. Polk County Conservation and Metro Arts Alliance is sponsoring this free public performance. Bring lawnchairs, a picnic supper, and enjoy the music.

The entertainment will be located in between Camp Areas #1 & #2 by the playground.

Jester Park
Granger, Iowa 50109
Phone: (515) 323-5300
FAX: (515) 323-5354

Click here for informational flyer.

High School Musical 2 Tickets On Sale May 12

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 07 May 2009 12:02:26 CST

Individual ticket sales for the popular "Disney's High School Musical 2"
begin at 7 a.m. Tuesday, May 12, online at dmplayhouse.com.
Beginning at 9 a.m., tickets may also be purchased by phone at
(515) 277-6261, toll-free (877) 862-5621, and in person at The Playhouse
ticket office, 831 42nd Street.

"Disney's High School Musical 2" is a fun and fresh new stage version of
the hugely popular movie. School's out! Troy, Gabriella, Chad, Taylor, and
Kelsi are spending the summer together, working at Lava Springs Country
Club. Will it mean the end of Troy and Gabriella when Troy agrees to sing
with Sharpay in the club's annual talent show? The Playhouse is proud to
present this sequel to our record-setting summer 2007 musical, "Disney's
High School Musical."

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at
the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of
shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences
including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and
volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For up-to-date audition information, visit The Playhouse website at
dmplayhouse.com or contact The Playhouse at (515) 255-3741.

Yankee Doodle Pops 2009

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:46:14 CST

DES MOINES- Bank of the West and the Des Moines Symphony have set the date for Yankee Doodle Pops 2009. This FREE, outdoor concert at the Iowa State Capitol West Terrace is set for Thursday, July 2, 2009. Maestro Giunta and the orchestra will once again take the stage at 8:30 p.m. to bring you one of Iowa's favorite Independence Day kick-offs. The concert culminates with an amazing patriotic fanfare complete with the area's premier fireworks display.

This year's Yankee Doodle Pops, which was held on Thursday, July 3, 2008, took a new turn, working with Simon Estes, Governor and First Lady Culver and local businesses to raise money for the Embrace Iowa: 2008 Iowa Disaster Fund. Volunteers from ING, the State of Iowa, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Meredith and Principal carried kettles provided by the Salvation Army through the crowd during Simon Estes' heartfelt performance of Old Man River, You'll Never Walk Alone and God Bless America. Bank of the West supervised the collection of money, contracting with Loomis Security for armored trucks and the counting of funds.

With the generosity of those in attendance (This year's crowd was estimated by Capitol staff at 115,000 to 125,000.)

Yankee Doodle Pops was able to collect $37,761.81 to be donated to the Embrace Iowa: 2008 Iowa Disaster Fund, established through the leadership of Governor Chet and First Lady Mari Culver. This fund will go directly back to the communities through the Red Cross, United Way and community foundations. Many of the kettles were full and it just was not possible to get to everyone in the crowd. Those who did not have the opportunity to give during the concert-including the many thousands listening to the live broadcast on Iowa Public Radio or watching the statewide Mediacom rebroadcasts-can still help by sending a gift to: Embrace Iowa: 2008 Iowa Disaster Fund, c/o Greater Des Moines Community Foundation, 1915 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50312.

For more information on this and other Des Moines Symphony events call 515-280-4000 or visit dmsymphony.org.

SCI launches Summer of Stars from May 9 - August 22, 2009

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 05 May 2009 17:51:02 CST

The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) sets the stage for spectacular science discovery with Summer of Stars from May 9 - August 22, 2009. The summer kicks off Saturday, May 9 with FREE Trial Member Day. SCI invites the community to experience the benefits of membership, including FREE admission to SCI’s exhibits and live programs, as well as discounts on IMAX tickets, camps and A-ha! Store purchases.

SCI's Summer of Stars features three main components:

LIVE Science on Stage - SCI features LIVE science in its world-class theaters, including the 50-ft. domed planetarium Star Theater and the 175-seat John Deere Adventure Theater. Personal interactions with SCI's engaging team of science experts and trained theatrical specialists will create lasting "a-ha!" moments for participants of all ages.

Blockbuster IMAX Films - In additition to a regular schedule of traditional films such as Under the Sea and Wired to Win: Surviving the Tour De France, SCI’s Blank IMAX Dome Theater rolls out the red carpet for three blockbuster feature films this summer:

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian: The IMAX Experience Opening May 22. This is the first major film to be shot inside the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen: The IMAX Experience Opening June 24. Key sequences were shot using IMAX cameras after The Dark Knight’s success.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: The IMAX Experience Opening July 31. The sixth installment in this epic adventure brings the magic to life in IMAX. (tentative date)

New Experiences Every Day - SCI's calendar is 'bursting' with new experiences EVERY DAY sure to create lasting impressions upon particiapants of all ages:

Spectacular Special Events feature fun science to engage and inspire:

*Theater Day - June 13
*Extreme Temperature Event - June 20

*Member Appreciation Days – June 24 - 27
*Science of Magic - July 11

*Farmin' Fun - August 8
*Carnival Science - August 22

Daily Experiences provide ever-changing experiences for each unique visitor:

*MONDAYS - Senior Monday Tours; Do Lunch in IMAX
*TUESDAYS - Rocket Building Workshops; WHO-TV 13 Storm School

*WEDNESDAYS - Science Storytime for Little Explorers
*THURSDAYS - WHO-TV 13 Storm School; WHO-TV live weather broadcasts with Meteorologist Ed Wilson

$5 Fun Night! includes:

$5 general admission

$5 traditional-length IMAX tickets
$5 Backyard BBQ meal

*FRIDAYS – SCI will debut of a NEW live programsuch as the Star Theater Spectacular and Deep Freeze!
*SATURDAYS - FREE SCI Street Performance outdoors during the Downtown Farmers' Market

Complete details on SCI's Summer of Stars, including a calendar of events, pricing information and facility hours can be found online at www.sciowa.org. Monthly special events and most daily experiences are included with general admission. Separate pricing applies to Senior Monday Tours, Do Lunch in IMAX and Thursday $5 Fun Nights.

Iowa Asian Alliance Commemorates Asian Pacific Heritage Month with CelebrAsian: The Seventh Annual Asian Heritage Festival

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 13 May 2009 19:53:58 CST

Each May, the Iowa Asian Alliance (IAA) unites Asian American communities in Iowa to celebrate Asian Pacific Heritage Month during a daylong festival known as CelebrAsian: The Asian Heritage Festival. Join the celebrAsian this year on Saturday, May 16, 2009, at the Iowa State Capitol, East Campus, in Des Moines, Iowa from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Since its inception seven years ago, CelebrAsian: The Annual Asian Heritage Festival has steadily become one of the year's most anticipated events. It brings together people across the Midwest to experience Asia in Iowa. CelebrAsian is the largest Asian American event in Iowa, showcasing cultural exhibits, history, food, performance artists, sports, martial arts, children’s activities, and other family-friendly activities.

“The Iowa Asian Alliance is extremely pleased to have the opportunity to showcase the cultural traditions and celebrate the rich diversity of the many distinctive Asian communities in Iowa” said Christopher McDonald, Chairman of the Iowa Asian Alliance. “CelebrAsian is a vehicle for our communities to reflect and promote a connected, informed, and diverse Iowa.” added McDonald.

CelebrAsian is organized around distinct Asian “villages,” representing twelve distinct Asian communities that live in Iowa. Villages include: Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, Hmong, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Laos, Nepalese, Taidam, Vietnamese, and Thai. Each village showcases the food, culture, history, arts, and crafts indigenous to their culture.

Participants of all ages can also enjoy a wide array of activities, including Asian cuisine, martial arts performances and competition, cooking demonstrations, exhibits and sale of traditional and contemporary Asian crafts, and live musical, martial arts, and arts performances at the following CelebrAsian destination spots:

Sports and martial arts village
Health and wellness village
Children’s activities village
Asian Fusion Arts Pavilion
Entertainment stage
Cooking Center

Those interested in learning more about how they can join the CelebrAsian should visit www.celebrAsian.org or contact IAA at 515.273.5100. Admission to CelebrAsian is free and open to the public due to the generous support from the following leading companies and organizations:

Co-Hosts – Polk County Board of Supervisors, Coldwell Banker
Festival Champions – The Des Moines Register, Lite 104.1 FM, and Mediacom
Festival Leaders – American Family Insurance, BRAVO Des Moines, Citi, Principal Financial Group, and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Founded in 2002, Iowa Asian Alliance (IAA) is a non-profit organization established by Asian American business, community and civic leaders for the purpose of forging cultural understanding and growth within the state of Iowa. IAA’s mission is to grow Iowa through a united Asian American community, and its vision is that Asian Americans in Iowa are an integral part of a vibrant and prosperous community of diverse people.
IAA represents and serves the following Asian ethnic groups: Burma, Cambodia, China, Hmong, India, Japan, Korea, Lao, Nepal, Philippines, Taiwan, Taidam, Thailand, and Vietnam.

WICKED on sale to public June 20

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 01 May 2009 14:31:29 CST

Tickets to WICKED, a new musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin, Academy Award winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt) and book by Winnie Holzman (”My So Called Life,” “Once And Again” and “thirtysomething”) based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, will first go on sale to the general public on Saturday, June 20 at 7 a.m. at the Civic Center Ticket Office.

Ticket buyers are invited to special festivities that morning from 7 to 10 a.m. as tickets will only be available for purchase at the Civic Center Ticket Office. At 10 a.m., tickets will then go on sale by phone at (800) 745-3000, online at CivicCenter.org and at all Ticketmaster locations. Orders for groups of 20 or more may be placed by calling (515) 246-2320.

WICKED, Des Moines’ most eagerly anticipated stage production, will begin performances at the Civic Center on Sept. 23 for a limited engagement of four weeks through Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009.

In Des Moines, WICKED will play Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m., Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 1 p.m. Ticket range from $32.50 to $127.50. All pricing includes a Building Restoration Fee of $2.50.

I BELIEVE CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF WITH EVENT ON MONDAY

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 01 May 2009 14:35:47 CST

Join us to kick-off a new community campaign, “I believe” on Monday May 4th from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. (the program is at 5:30 p.m.) at Principal Park in the mezzanine. The kick-off will celebrate Greater Des Moines complete with live music from She Swings She Sways and Bonne Finken, some free drinks and free tickets to the game for the first 1,000 people.

Following the kick-off the Iowa Cubs will host “I Believe Night” with admission for only $1.

The "I Believe" campaign hopes to unite the community of Greater Des Moines in these challenging times. Together, we believe we can create a better day and a brighter future for the metro area.

For more information about "I Believe" visit ibelievedm.com.

Downtown Farmers' Market Starts A Week Early

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 01 May 2009 14:17:30 CST

The Downtown Farmers’ Market will return to Historic Court Avenue District in Downtown Des Moines a week early this year. Opening day for the 2009 Downtown Farmers’ Market season is Saturday, May 2nd from 7 a.m. – noon.

“Both our customers and our vendors have asked us to start the Market earlier in May,” explains Kelly Foss, Downtown Farmers’ Market director. “After discussing opening day with many of our participating farmers, it was determined that they would be ready to start selling their products, therefore we would be able to open sooner.”

On opening day shoppers at the Downtown Farmers’ Market will find delicious spring greens, morel mushrooms, rhubarb, asparagus, herbs, and a variety of spring produce. Vegetable and herb plants will be in abundance, as well as hanging floral baskets, bedding plants and perennials to get your own flower and vegetable gardens started. Just in time for Mother’s Day, a large variety of unique gifts will also be available.

The Downtown Farmers’ Market features nearly 200 vendors, from 49 Iowa counties, with farm fresh products including Iowa raised pork, beef, lamb, poultry, fish, elk, baked breads, pies and cinnamon rolls. Patrons will also find nuts, eggs, butter, cheese, wine, jams, jellies, beautiful cut flowers, unique hostas and a vast assortment of locally created arts, crafts, jewelry, rugs, and clothing.

A new year brings a new layout for the vendors at the Market. Many of your favorite vendors may have changed locations to better fit their business needs. A complete list of vendors with a map and a list of the products can be found at desmoinesfarmersmarket.com. Be sure to check the web site for special offers from vendors each week.

Fun things to look forward to this season include the return of Grapevine Tunes. This program gives youth ages 6 - 17 an opportunity to showcase their musical skills from June – September at the corner of Fourth Street and Court Avenue. Kids can also participate each Saturday in agricultural and nature-related activities at the “Earn your PhB” booth, sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred. The Master Gardeners will be on hand monthly to answer questions and give advice and look for the Top Chef Tour Bus to visit the Market in early June. In addition, you will find a variety of entertainment from belly dancers, mimes, live music and steel drum bands at six different locations throughout the market.

For those looking for the perfect gift for their favorite Farmers’ Market enthusiast, Downtown Farmers’ Market merchandise is available. Merchandise includes colorful market shopping bags and gift certificates available in the market business office, at the Market, or by calling (515) 286-4911.
The Downtown Farmers’ Market began in 1976 with just 15 vendors and an average of 200 shoppers and operated July - October. Today, the Market has more than 200 vendors and an average of 20,000 visitors each Saturday during May - October. Last year’s opening day attracted a record crowd of more than 40,000 people.

For more information about the Downtown Farmers’ Market visit desmoinesfarmersmarket.com or become a fan on Facebook – page name is Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market.

Zoo Ready to Party for the Planet

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:55:08 CST

Des Moines: On the evening of Friday, April 24, Blank Park Zoo officials are putting out a call to “Party for the Planet” and celebrate Earth Day.

“Green is in, and it’s time to get outdoors,” says Anne Shimerdla, Director of Operations. “We’re celebrating our planet with a fun party for all.”

Local conservation groups from Polk, Dallas and Madison Counties will be at the zoo to promote environmental work. Each group will also have a craft activity for children.

Guests will be able to tour the Department of Natural Resources interactive trailer and learn about the different ways they can help protect the environment.

The Zoo Conservation Committee will discuss the green operations of the zoo. They will be selling tattoos and suckers and will have fun giveaways for children!

Wiggles & Giggles, an environmental education program, will be at the zoo. Guests will learn how Worm and his friends have reduced waste at the zoo and learn how they can put Worm’s friends to work reducing waste in their own homes.

There will be several keeper chats throughout the zoo as well as a special sea lion demonstration at 6 pm. An auction will be held and guests (ages 12 & up) will have an opportunity to bid to win admittance onto the Sea Lion feeding deck for the show.

Guests are also encouraged to bring old cell phones or ink cartridges to the zoo to help with conservation efforts.

Please note: A special ribbon cutting will be held at 4:30 p.m. as Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse becomes the official concessionaire at the Blank Park Zoo.

The Blank Park Zoo, Iowa’s WILDEST Adventure, is open everyday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is $9.95 for adults, $4.95 for children under 12, and $7.95 for seniors and active military. The Zoo is located at 7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315. The Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization that sets rigorous, professional standards for zoos and aquariums. The AZA is building North America's largest wildlife conservation movement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors to its member institutions and their communities to care about and take action to help protect wildlife.

Event to Cover Social Media, Marketing in this Economic Climate

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 12:31:29 CST

Business officials and individuals looking for ways to market themselves in this economic climate can attend a Marketing and Media Panel Discussion Tuesday, April 28 from 8 a.m. – Noon at Foxboro Conference Center, 6165 NW 86th Street in Johnston.

The event will feature three panels of local experts and reporters discussing marketing in this economic climate, social media, public relations and working with the media.

“We often receive questions from local businesses, meeting and event planners asking how to best market their business or event,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. “We hope these panel discussions help individuals learn about no cost and low cost ways to effectively market themselves.”

8-8:15 a.m. Welcome and Event Overview
8:15-8:45 a.m. 2009 Sales and Marketing Initiatives: No Cost and Low Cost
8:45-9:15 a.m. Marketing in this Economic Climate Panel
9:15-9:30 a.m. Break
9:30-9:45 a.m. Social Media Overview with Nathan Wright (Lava Row)
9:45-10:45 a.m. Social Media Panel
10:45 a.m.-Noon PR/Working with the Media Panel

This event is open to the public. Tickets are $25 for the general public and $15 for students.
For more information or to purchase a ticket online, go to http://www.seedesmoines.com/partners/media_panel.php.

This event is sponsored by LoveScott & Associates, Inc.

The Amazing Race�s Host, Phil Keoghan, Films in Des Moines as He Rides Across America

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:43:21 CST

A welcome party will be held for Phil Keoghan, TV celebrity and host of the hit series, The Amazing Race, as he rolls into Greater Des Moines for an overnight stop on his national Ride Across America. The public is encouraged to attend the festivities at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 19 at the State Capitol West Terrace. A rain location has been set for the Iowa State Historical Building, 600 E Locust Street, across the street from the State Capitol West Terrace. Attendees are encouraged to arrive at the Capitol by 5 p.m. to meet and greet Keoghan and enjoy preliminary activities. This event is free.

Greater Des Moines is one of only 30 major stops on Keoghan’s first-ever, coast-to-coast, 3,500-mile ride across the nation to raise awareness and funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MS) and healthy living, presented by GNC. Television crews are filming his Ride Across America and will be capturing the Greater Des Moines celebration, giving Central Iowa a chance to showcase our unique community spirit and extensive regional trail system.

Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie, the Isisserettes Drum and Drill Corp, GNC Stores, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, Greater Des Moines Partnership and the Downtown Community Alliance are inviting Iowans to come out to show Keoghan and his film crew, Central Iowa’s warm hospitality. Keoghan will be on hand for autographs, book signings and handshakes following the welcome party.

Central Iowa bike teams will join Keoghan as he enters the Central Iowa Trail System in Redfield, Iowa. Bike teams of 10 or more riders will continue to join the ride as it winds through Adel, Waukee, Clive, Windsor Heights and Des Moines’ Gray’s Lake. He will be joined by Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie, MS Area Director Mark Davis and GNC Regional Sales Director Kyle Widerspan at Gray’s Lake.

The growing crowd of bike riders will leave Gray’s Lake and continue the ride along the Metro Trail System including Meredith Trail, through Downtown Des Moines and end at the State Capitol West Terrace where the celebration begins.

The Central Iowa Trails the Ride Across America will be traveling on include:

Trail from Redfield to Clive—Raccoon River Valley Trail
Clive to Windsor Heights—Clive Greenbelt Trail
Windsor Heights to Des Moines—Colby Trail
Downtown Des Moines—Walnut Creek Trail, Bill Riley Trail, Kruidenier Trail, Meredith Trail and John Pat Dorrian Trail

Trail map links for Central Iowa Trails are:

http://greaterdesmoinestrails.org/newtrails/images/Central_Iowa_Trail.htm

http://greaterdesmoinestrails.org/newtrails/images/downtown.htm

http://greaterdesmoinestrails.org/newtrails/images/map2_r1_c1.gif

For more information contact Amelia Hamilton Morris, City of Des Moines Public Information, at (515) 283-4795, (515) 202-8337 or akmorris@dmgov.org. Shekinah Young may also be contacted for additional information at (515) 283-4057.

College Mock Trial National Championships in Des Moines this weekend

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:09:18 CST

The 25th Annual College Mock Trial National Championships will take place in Des Moines, today through Sunday, April 19 at Hotel Fort Des Moines and the Polk County Courthouse.

The best 48 college teams from around the country will compete in four rounds of trials over the course of three days. The rounds begin at 6:30 p.m. today, 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18 and 9:30 a.m. Sunday, April 19. Four teams from Iowa including Drake University, Grinnell College, Cornell College and the University of Iowa are all competing in this year’s Championships.

After four rounds of competition, the winners of the two 24-team divisions will be decided and will square off in one final trial at 4 p.m. on Sunday at the Drake Legal Clinic, located at 24th and University in Des Moines. The overall National Champion will be crowned at approximately 7 p.m. More than 500 people are expected to attend the awards ceremony for all teams where the division winners are announced. The awards ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday at Hotel Fort Des Moines.

At mock trial tournaments, students play the roles of attorneys and witnesses and all teams will argue each side of the case twice. The teams are scored by real attorneys who volunteer their time to judge. At the start of the mock trial season, all teams receive the same packet of case materials including evidence, witness statements and relevant law. This year’s case involves a defamation claim brought against the fictional Blitz News Network by a gubernatorial candidate accused of murdering a rival. Over 500 teams began the season with 48 earning the opportunity to compete at the Championships.

The American Mock Trial Association (AMTA) was founded by Dick Calkins, then-Dean of Drake University Law School, and remains headquartered in West Des Moines. Although teams from AMTA’s home state continue to thrive, college mock trial has become truly national in scope.

All this weekend’s events are open to the public and opportunities for still photos and video taping are available. Interviews with tournament organizers and students can also be arranged upon request. For more information, please contact AMTA President-Elect David Nelmark at dwnelmark@belinlaw.com or (515) 988-0447.

Updated Time for Amazing Race Host Arrival in Colby Park

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:20:55 CST

Public is Invited to Greet Phil at 2:30 p.m.
Colby Park
Sunday April 19, 2009

Windsor Heights’ residents can see the host of the hit series, The Amazing Race, on Sunday, April 19. This unique opportunity is open to the public. Greater Des Moines is one of 30 major stops on Phil’s first-ever, coast-to-coast, 3,500-mile ride across the nation.

Phil is expected to arrive at approximately 2:30 p.m. in Colby Park, where he will be joined by some additional bicyclists. He will then travel on to the State Capitol West Terrace for a welcome celebration where the public can meet and greet him. Phil will also be available for autographs and photographs.

Television crews are filming Phil’s Ride Across America and it will be an opportunity to showcase the new Performance Pavilion at Colby Park as well as the extensive Greater Des Moines Recreational Trail System.

Phil’s ride is raising awareness and funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MS) and healthy living, presented by GNC.

Central Iowa bike teams will join Phil as he enters the trail system at Redfield. Bikers will continue to join Phil as he rides through Adel, Waukee, Clive, Windsor Heights and to Des Moines’ Gray’s Lake. The ride continues along the Meredith Trail, through downtown and ends at the State Capitol West Terrace.

Please encourage the public to join us for this exciting event. Visit www.philridesacrossamerica.com for more information about the ride. Organizers for the local event include GNC Stores, area cities, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, KCCI News Channel 8, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, Greater Des Moines Partnership, and the Downtown Community Alliance.

We are excited that Phil will stop briefly in Colby Park and hope to give him a terrific Windsor welcome!

ISF Mud Run This Saturday

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:43:57 CST

The 2009 Iowa Sports Foundation Mud Run will be held this Saturday, April 18 beginning at 9 a.m. at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in Des Moines.

Those wanting to have fun and get muddy can register online at IOWASPORTSFOUNDATION.org thru April 16 for $22, as well as on race day for $25 at participant check-in. The registration fee includes
a T-shirt, post-race refreshments, and an ISF Mud Run gift.

This unique event is sure to be fun and challenging for all participants and spectators. Racers of all
abilities will have a great time throughout the course, with mud, a few obstacles and the Mucky Mud
Pit! The course will feature a 3-mile trek to begin at 9 a.m. At the end of the race, participants will venture through the Mucky Mud Pit to the finish.

A 1-mile fun run is also offered, which travels through several mud pits and a few obstacles before
racers venture in the Mucky Mud Pit. This event will start at 10:30 a.m. following the Mud Run. All participants in the 1-mile run receive a finisher medal and a T-shirt.

Grab your buddies and get muddy at the 2009 ISF Mud Run. Visit IOWASPORTSFOUNDATION.org for online
registration and event information.

The Iowa Sports Foundation (ISF) is a nonprofit sports management organization that helps develop amateur sports in Iowa and promotes positive lifestyles and physical fitness through athletic events and health education programs. The ISF host the Summer Iowa Games, Winter Iowa Games, Live Healthy Iowa, Live Healthy America, Live Healthy Iowa Kids, Go The Distance Day, Hoopin At The Dome, Net Fest, Fish Iowa Games, the ISF Mud Run and the Iowa Games Golf Classic.

The Amazing Race's Host Phil Keoghan Coming to Des Moines Metro Area

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 12:58:42 CST

Public is Invited to Greet Phil at 5:30 p.m.
State Capitol West Terrace
Sunday April 19, 2009

Central Iowans can meet the host of the hit series, The Amazing Race, on Sunday, April 19. This unique opportunity is open to the public. Greater Des Moines is one of 30 major stops on Phil’s first-ever, coast-to-coast, 3,500-mile ride across the nation.

Phil is expected to arrive at approximately 5:30 p.m. at the State Capitol West Terrace for a welcome celebration where the public can meet and greet him. Phil will also be available for autographs and photographs.

Television crews are filming Phil’s Ride Across America and will be capturing the Greater Des Moines celebration, giving the community a chance to showcase our extensive Greater Des Moines Recreational Trail System.

Phil’s ride is raising awareness and funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MS) and healthy living, presented by GNC.

Central Iowa bike teams will join Phil as he enters the trail system at Redfield. Bikers will continue to join Phil as he rides through Adel, Waukee, Clive, Windsor Heights and to Des Moines’ Gray’s Lake, where he will be joined by Mayor Frank Cownie, MS Area Director Mark Davis and GNC Regional Sales Director Kyle Widerspan. The ride continues along the Meredith Trail, through downtown and ends at the State Capitol West Terrace. Trail map links for Central Iowa Trails are:

http://greaterdesmoinestrails.org/newtrails/images/Central_Iowa_Trail.htm
http://greaterdesmoinestrails.org/newtrails/images/downtown.htm
http://greaterdesmoinestrails.org/newtrails/images/map2_r1_c1.gif

Please encourage the public to join us for this exciting event. Visit philridesacrossamerica.com for more information about the ride. Organizers for the local event include GNC Stores, City of Des Moines, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, KCCI News Channel 8, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, Greater Des Moines Partnership, and the Downtown Community Alliance.

For more information contact Amelia Hamilton Morris, City of Des Moines Public Information at (515) 283-4795 or (515) 202-8337 and email at akmorris@dmgov.org. Additional contact - Shekinah Young, 283-4057.

New State Fair Award to Recognize Iowa's Farm Families

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:08:59 CST

The Iowa State Fair is searching for five farm families to recognize with the Way We Live Award at the 2009 Fair, August 13-23. These families must exemplify farm values derived from hard work and a love for the occupation of farming.

To enter, submit an entry form along with a 500-1500 word essay describing how living on a farm and choosing the occupation of farming has shaped the family’s life. Also include a family picture that illustrates the family’s commitment to their farming operation. Entry forms can be downloaded from the Iowa State Fair web site (http://www.iowastatefair.org/entertainment/contests.php). All entries must be postmarked by May 1.

Nominated families should show dedication to animal agriculture in their daily lives and in the lives of their family members. Winners will receive a prize package including $150 cash, Fair admission tickets and recognition in the Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center during the Fair.

Eligible families must be residents of Iowa whose farming operation is centered on animal agriculture and may nominate themselves or be nominated by others.

Send entries to:
The Way We Live Award, Iowa State Fair, P.O. Box 57130, Des Moines, Iowa 50317-0003

For questions about the award, contact Emily Brewer at 515.262.3111 x244 or ebrewer@iowastatefair.org.

“State Fair Time” in 2009 is set August 13-23. For Fair information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

25th Annual WWII Army Reunion in Des Moines this Weekend

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:05:43 CST

The men of Company E, 386th Infantry Battalion, 97th Division, will hold their 25th annual WWII Army Reunion in Des Moines, April 30 – May 3.

As part of the WWII Army Reunion, Company E will tour the Iowa Gold Star Museum at Camp Dodge and experience new Humvee equipment, participate in Kentucky Derby Day at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino and enjoy Greater Des Moines. Applebee’s will host lunch and dinner for Company E on Friday, May 1. Company E will conclude their weekend with a banquet at 6 p.m. Sunday, May 3 at Jimmy’s American Café in West Des Moines. The Reunion is headquartered at the Stoney Creek Inn in Johnston.

The men of Company E are a unique group who served in Europe and Japan during World War II. Reunion attendees are coming to Des Moines from California, Ohio, Georgia and Minnesota.

Hosted in 2008 by Dan and Molly Lopez of Des Moines, the Lopez family will host the 2009 Reunion again in honor of Dan’s father John R. Lopez, who was a member of Company E and passed away on March 15, 2007.

Please contact Daniel L. Lopez, at (515) 554-6516 or danlopez@mchsi.com for more information.

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote Greater Des Moines as a fun, vibrant and affordable destination statewide, nationally and internationally. Our focus increases visitors to our community through meetings, conventions, sports events, leisure travel, and group tours, thereby contributing to the local economy.

Ben Harper and Relentless7, Public Enemy, Matisyahu, and More to Perform at 80/35

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:25:18 CST

National headliners will converge with top local and regional acts at 80/35 presented by U.S. Cellular on July 3 and 4 in downtown Des Moines’ Western Gateway Park. 80/35, the second annual summer music festival organized by the Greater Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC), announced 11 of the more than 40 acts scheduled to appear over 4th of July weekend.

Acclaimed national acts Ben Harper and Relentless7, Public Enemy, Matisyahu, Stephen Malkmus and The Jicks, G. Love & Special Sauce, and Girl In A Coma will celebrate their Independence Day weekend at the epicenter of Interstates 80 and 35 (80/35). House of Large Sizes, The Josh Davis Band, Beati Paoli, Cleo’s Apartment, and Floodplane are among the Iowa-homegrown bands announced. Additional acts will be announced in the coming weeks.

Last years’ 80/35 drew an estimated 30,000 people to see more than 40 acts on four stages, including The Flaming Lips, The Roots, Andrew Bird, Black Francis, and Drive By Truckers. The 2009 80/35 will again feature more than 40 acts over the two-days. The festival will include acts in both free and paid areas of the event. Both areas will house interactive art, activities, vendors, resting places, food and beverage sales, and plenty more. A fireworks display is planned for Saturday, July 4.

“Since the inaugural 80/35, Des Moines has seen a surge of promoters bringing new and exciting music to the city,” says Amedeo Rossi, DMMC project manager. “The goal of the DMMC is to grow the city’s music scene and we see a lot of activity out of our local bands with new records and tours. This year’s event will continue to expand the growing base of music fans and provide an even higher profile for the Des Moines music scene.”

Advance tickets are on sale now at IowaTix.com: $70 two-day pass, $35 Friday single day pass, and $45 Saturday single day pass. There will be a limited number of advance single day passes available. VIP passes to the festival have sold out.

Friday, July 3
Public Enemy
Matisyahu
Stephen Malkmus and The Jicks

Saturday, July 4
Ben Harper and Relentless7
G. Love & Special Sauce
Girl In A Coma

Performance date TBA
House of Large Sizes
The Josh Davis Band
Beati Paoli
Cleo’s Apartment
Floodplane

80/35 is made possible by U.S. Cellular, Meredith Corporation, Olde Main Brewing Co., Greater Des Moines Partnership, WHO-TV, Des Moines Metromix, and Clear Channel. 80/35 was founded in 2008 by a grant from the Greater Des Moines Community Foundation.

The Greater Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and collaborative movement committed to building a stronger and more diverse live music economy in greater Des Moines. For more information visit desmoinesmc.com.

81st Iowa FFA Leadership Conference

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:00:47 CST

FFA members across Iowa will be celebrating success when they gather for the 81st Iowa FFA Leadership Conference on April 16 and 17 at Veterans Memorial Auditorium and the Polk County Convention Complex in Des Moines. The annual conference will give agricultural education students the opportunity to participate in Career Development Event competition, be recognized for participation in events during the past year, become inspired by motivational speakers, interact with college and business professionals, and develop new leadership skills. Chapter delegates and Iowa FFA Officers will also conduct the annual business session to make decisions for the student run Iowa FFA Association.

Several exciting guests will be present at the 2009 Iowa FFA Leadership Conference. These include keynote speaker Josh Sundquist, National FFA Western Region Vice President Riley Branch from Texas, and Iowa Secretary of Agricultural and Land Stewardship Bill Northey. The conference is sponsored by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and Farm Credit Services of America through the Iowa FFA Foundation.

The Iowa FFA Association has 230 local chapters with over 12,000 FFA members. FFA is a national organization of more than 500,000 members preparing for leadership and careers in science, business, and technology of agriculture. Local, state, and national programs provide opportunities for students to apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom. FFA’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Visit agiowa.org or ffa.org for more information.

Des Moines "Wow's" as a Destination

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:33:25 CST

Meetings MidAmerica says, “WOW! Des Moines” in an article just released and distributed to meeting planners and destination expert professionals throughout the Midwest.

The two-page, photo-filled spread in the March/April issue article highlights Des Moines as a city who’s got it together with, “a downtown that’s grown up quite a bit in the past decade.” Des Moines’ $2.8 billion in downtown development including the emerging East Village, great dining choices and trouble-free transportation were all discussed in the piece.

The article was the result of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (GDMCVB) work to promote Des Moines as an affordable and attractive destination for visitors and convention business. Recently, the office has fielded numerous media calls from reporters around the country inquiring about Greater Des Moines’ continued success with convention bookings.

“This is excellent media exposure for Des Moines and many locally-owned businesses,” says GDMCVB President and CEO Greg Edwards. “Des Moines has a lot to offer and we want to do all we can to showcase our destination in a positive light. In difficult times, Des Moines continues to emerge as one of the most affordable cities in the nation to visit.”

A full version of the article can be found at seedesmoines.com/media/in_the_news.php.

Country Super Star, Kenny Chesney "Sun City Carnival Tour" rolls into Wells Fargo Arena May 7

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:45:18 CST

Kenny Chesney's "Sun City Carnival Tour" rolls into Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, IA May 7, 2009. The ACM/CMA Entertainer of the Year will be joined by Miranda Lambert and Lady Antebellum in Des Moines. Tickets, priced from $21 to $99, go on-sale Saturday, March 28 at 10 a.m. exclusively through dahlstickets.com, 866-55-DAHLS, the Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office, and all area Dahl's Foods locations.

As the staging is getting built, the scrims screened and the video shot and edited, Kenny Chesney is gearing up for his Sun City Carnival 2009 Tour. Following his Poets & Pirates Tour - the most attended tour in any genre of music for 2008 according to Pollstar - the man who's already sold out the home of the New England Patriots, Boston's Gillette Stadium, in less than 10 minutes is looking to pick up the tempo, rock a little harder and increase the fun, friends and music.

To that end, the 4-consecutive and reigning Academy of Country Music and 4-time and current Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year has looked at his tourmates very carefully - and invited trail blazer country star Miranda Lambert and CMA Horizon winners Lady Antebellum to join his Carnival for the entire summer!

Lambert, whose platinum album Kerosene debuted at #1 on the country charts and whose Crazy Ex-Girlfriend won the ACM Album of the Year, is a Texas girl who can pack a punch. Known for her captivating awards show performances, frank songwriting and unbridled concerts, she holds down the second slot on the Sun City Carnival.

Lady Antebellum, who won the 2008 CMA Horizon Award and the 2008 ACM Best New Duo/Group Award, will kick off the party each night. Comprised of lead singer Charles Kelley, vocalist/guitarist/mandolinist Dave Hayward and lead singer Hillary Scott, the trio is also Grammy nominated for Best New Artist. "You can't hear 'Love Don't Live Here' and not turn up the radio," says the man who's sold over a million tickets each of the past 7 summers. "That was a feel good record, and it seems to match the spirit Lady Antebellum puts out there. They're fresh and fun and are perfect to start this show."

Brenton Skating Plaza Remains A Favorite Central Iowa Attraction

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 16:42:37 CST

With Spring temperatures sweeping in, ice-skaters said farewell to ‘fun on the ice & magic in the air’ as Brenton Skating Plaza held its last public skate of the season on Sunday March 15, 2009. Brenton Skating Plaza opened for the 2008-09 Season on November 14, 2008 offering a plethora of outdoor activities including public skating seven days a week (even holidays!), Learn To Skate sessions, and Broomball Leagues, just to name a few. In its third season of operation, Brenton Skating Plaza has remained a favorite central Iowa attraction with a total 08-09 season attendance of 29,524 people.

Brenton Skating Plaza continues to play a prominent role in the community as host to a variety of fundraisers/charitable events such as AID the Orphans, Go Red for Women with the American Heart Association, Iowans for Life, Build A Bridge Campaign (Principal River Walk event), Nothing But Nets, and local food/clothing drives. The 2008-09 Season was highlighted by appearances by local sports teams and celebrities; among them were the Iowa Energy, Iowa Chops, and Des Moines Buccaneers, in addition to various radio personalities. Brenton Skating Plaza participated in the second annual Des Moines Winter Games, hosting a figure skating exhibition, the first annual Des Moines Firefighters Fire & Ice Chili Cook-off, and a Snowman Building Contest. Brenton was also host to the KXNO Broomball Tournament, the chosen site for several marriage proposals, countless birthday parties, and numerous corporate, school, and church group outings and events (including out-of-state groups!). This season also featured the venue’s first-ever wedding on ice! “Every year it gets better and better,” says Robbin McClelland, General Manager of Brenton Skating Plaza, of the Season’s programming and activities. “We are excited that so many people have embraced Brenton Skating Plaza as one of their favorite destinations for winter fun.” Brenton Skating Plaza plans to reopen for its’ 4th season in November 2009.

Brenton Skating Plaza is Des Moines’ only permanent outdoor ice skating facility and family entertainment venue. Gifted by the Brenton Foundation, the facility is the first of its kind in the state of Iowa. Conveniently located along the Principal Riverwalk on the Des Moines River waterfront, Brenton Skating plaza brings a bit of magic downtown. Enjoy breathtaking cityscape and riverfront views while having some fun and getting some exercise. Brenton Skating Plaza is definitely a must when it comes to experiencing downtown Des Moines. Brenton is the perfect setting for family fun, a great date spot, or a fabulous location for your private event. Visit brentonplaza.com for more information.

Tiny Monkeys Arrive at the Zoo

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:59:25 CST

There are more animals that like to “monkey around” at the Blank Park Zoo these days. A pair of Golden-Headed Tamarins joined the other wild creatures at Iowa’s zoo and seem to be enjoying their new home in Blank Park Zoo’s Discovery Center’s conservatory.

“Golden-headed tamarins are exceedingly rare, says Ben Beck, Director of Conservation at the Great Ape Trust of Iowa and an international leader in tamarin conservation. “The international program for management of this species in captivity is rigorous and demanding when selecting institutions to care for these beautiful animals. Knowing that the international management group has entrusted a pair to the Blank Park Zoo is a great credit to the zoo staff. The tamarins are a significant addition to the cultural life of Des Moines, and will entertain and inform zoo visitors for years to come.”

Slightly smaller than squirrels, these tamarins are commonly called "kings of the jungle" because manes around their faces make them look like lions. All of the members of this family have claws that they use to dig under bark to gather meals of insects.

Native to the Atlantic coastal forests of Brazil, the Golden-Headed Tamarin is an endangered species with an estimated wild population of just more than 1,000 and a US captive population at 75.

The Blank Park Zoo, Iowa’s WILDEST Adventure, is open in the winder Thursday- Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission is $9.95 for adults, $4.95 for children under 12, and $7.95 for seniors and active military. The Zoo is located at 7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315. Visit the Zoo online at. The Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) The AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization that sets rigorous, professional standards for zoos and aquariums. The AZA is building North America's largest wildlife conservation movement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors to its member institutions and their communities to care about and take action to help protect wildlife.

Great Ape Trust Expands Experience to Children, Includes Chance to Meet Hollywood Orangutans

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:32:34 CST

Under new Great Ape Trust membership policies announced today, more visitors will have the chance to experience the amazement of visitors like Kathi Sircy when she saw the world-famous bonobo Kanzi ace a series of cognitive tasks at the internationally respected scientific research institute in Des Moines, Iowa.

In the past, visitors received an educational overview of Great Ape Trust’s scientific, conservation, education and welfare missions, parts of which were too advanced for young audiences. However, the Floods of 2008 that caused about $1.5 million damage to Great Ape Trust’s 230-acre campus destroyed the educational classroom and other administrative buildings. In response, visits have been restructured to allow members more time – a full three hours – with the great apes who call Des Moines home.

This year, Great Ape Trust is expanding membership and visitation opportunities to children of all ages and adding a family package to membership options. Tours will be held on four Saturdays this year to accommodate groups of up to 300 each day. Membership Days are May 30, June 20, July 18 and Sept. 26, and visits are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Membership at the VIP level entitles the member to a private tour for a group of their choosing – from intimate gatherings of families or friends to larger business or social outings.

The 2009 Membership Days tours after the public’s first chance to meet Katy, Rocky and Popi, three orangutans retired from the entertainment industry and living at Great Ape Trust since July. Visitors may already know Rocky, 4, formerly one of the most visible orangutans in entertainment who has been photographed alongside recording artist Fergie of The Black Eyed Peas for Elle magazine and starred in television ads for Capital One and Aflac. Another of the entertainment orangutans, Popi, 37, was one of at least three orangutans appearing opposite actor Clint Eastwood in the 1980 hit Any Which We You Can, and was the featured orangutan in Las Vegas nightclub performer Bobby Berosini’s Lido de Paris floor show at the Stardust Resort & Casino in the 1980s. Katy, 20, Rocky’s biological mother, also was involved in show business before her retirement.

Also new this year, visitors may have the opportunity to watch orangutans Azy, Knobi and Allie and the new residents explore their 3-acre forest yard, one of the largest such facilities for captive great apes in North America. The yard features dozens of climbable trees, giving visitors a glimpse of how the tree-dwelling orangutans travel through the forests in the wild.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit the home of bonobos Kanzi, Panbanisha, Nyota, Nathan, Elikya, Maisha and Matata and – if the bonobos wish to participate – see an example of the groundbreaking cognitive research that makes Great Ape Trust unique in the world.

Kathi Sircy of Des Moines is looking forward to her third member visit to Great Ape Trust and another chance to interact with the ape residents. During a previous visit, she and other guests were invited into the bonobo residence for a session that changed her view of great apes and their intelligence.

“We saw amazing and exciting examples by Kanzi, the only bonobo who came out to visit that day, of how he is able to communicate and answer English-spoken questions with symbols,” said Sircy, whose first visit was with a group from the Ruby Van Meter School in Des Moines, where she is a nurse.

“Delighting all the visitors, he was able to choose a reward of his choice, and he chose to have a game of ‘chase,’” Sircy said, describing a game the bonobos enjoy playing with visitors. “I was especially excited, because out of the five different chase game pairs that Kanzi chose, I was in four of them.”

The next time she visited Great Ape Trust, Sircy brought along her husband, David Wright. “My husband was amazed to see some of the wonderful things I had experienced through my first visit,” Sircy said. “Kanzi and Nyota both easily answered questions using the symbols that we couldn’t read or communicate using. When we left, my husband kept saying how much there was to Great Ape Trust and reflected on all he saw and learned that day. I had talked about Great Ape Trust for a whole year, and after that he knew just why.”

To become a member, go to www.GreatApeTrust.org and click on “become a member,” found on the left side of the page. Membership levels are:

College student: A $40 individual membership for undergraduate and graduate students. Valid academic institution e-mail address required. Includes one Great Ape Trust Membership Day Tour with one guest and the Great Ape Trust monthly e-newsletter.
Senior: A $40 individual membership for anyone 65 years and older. Includes one Great Ape Trust Membership Day Tour with one guest and the Great Ape Trust monthly e-newsletter.
General: A $50 general membership for adults 18 to 65. Includes one Great Ape Trust Membership Day Tour with one guest and the Great Ape Trust monthly e-newsletter.
Household: A $100 family membership includes two adults and all children ages 18 and younger residing in the same household. Includes one Great Ape Trust Membership day Tour for the household and the Great Ape Trust monthly e-newsletter.
VIP: A $2,500 membership includes one Great Ape Trust Membership Day Tour for the household, the Great Ape Trust monthly e-newsletter and a private tour tailored to the group’s size and interests. VIP tours are conducted on Friday afternoons from June through October. VIP members interested in scheduling a visit should call (515) 243-3580 and enter the number “8” when prompted to do so. A representative will help coordinate the visit and tailor the Great Ape Trust experience to each group’s needs.

Memberships support not only the Great Ape Trust public visitation program, but also the scientific and conservation efforts of The Trust.

GREAT APE TRUST BACKGROUND
Great Ape Trust of Iowa is a scientific research facility in southeast Des Moines dedicated to understanding the origins and future of culture, language, tools and intelligence. When completed, Great Ape Trust will be the largest great ape facility in North America and one of the first worldwide to include all four types of great ape – bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans – for noninvasive interdisciplinary studies of their cognitive and communicative capabilities.
Great Ape Trust is dedicated to providing sanctuary and an honorable life for great apes, studying the intelligence of great apes, advancing conservation of great apes and providing unique educational experiences about great apes. Great Ape Trust of Iowa is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization and is certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). To learn more about Great Ape Trust of Iowa, go to GreatApeTrust.org.

Enjoy the Beauty and the Inspiration at the Iowa Flower, Lawn & Garden Show and Sale

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:48:14 CST

The Iowa Flower, Lawn & Garden Show, presented by Hy-Vee, is being held in the Varied Industries Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, March 20-22. The show boasts over 300 booths of annual and perennial flowers, plants, trees, shrubs, pots and herbs for sale, along with beautiful displays of landscaping, water gardens, outdoor decorating, fencing, decks, sunrooms, decks, walkways, spas and everything available for improvements to outdoor living.

There’s something for the entire family at the Iowa Flower, Lawn & Garden Show. Hy-Vee is hosting a 50’x50’ display stocked full of annual and perennial flowers, trees, plants and shrubs for sale. Ten beautiful landscapes will be on exhibit throughout the weekend. The public can also register to win great prizes including the Ultimate $10,000 Outdoor Giveaway and $1,695 worth of top-of-the-line Kitchen Craft cookware.

Micheal Amosson with Viking Productions will offer free antique appraisals all weekend. Dust off those attic treasures and bring them to the show to see how much they are worth. Amosson has years of experience appraising items from family heirlooms, childhood toys, autographed memorabilia, vintage items, glassware and more. He has discovered several top dollar items at past shows including a $45,000 necklace, which the owner believed to be inexpensive costume jewelry, and a $25,000 antique silver charger.

Show dates, times and ticket prices are as follows:
Friday, March 20 - 1 to 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 21 – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, March 22 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Adults—$6.95, Seniors (62+)—$5.95, Children under 12 are free.
Go to IowaFlowerShow.com for more information and to download a discount pass.
800.756.4788

Bands Announced for 2009 Music in the Junction Concert Series

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:56:25 CST

May 7 - Back in the Day featuring Del SAXMAN Jones

May 14 - Comfort Zone

May 21 - The El Dorados

May 28 - Jonny & the Rectifiers

June 4 - COUNTRY in the JUNCTION featuring BROTHER TRUCKER

June 11 - The Rod Chaffee Band

June 18 - The Retro Rockets

June 25 - The Sons of Gladys Cravitts

July 2 - BLUES in the JUNCTION featuring Malcomb Wells & the Two-Timers

July 9 - Bob's Garage Band

July 16 - FLIPSIDE

July 23 - Matt Woods & the Thunderbolts

July 30 - Jonny & the Rectifiers

August 6 - BEACH PARTY in the JUNCTION with ..... THE TONY VALDEZ LARGE BAND

August 13 - Throwing Toast

August 20 - The Echos 5

August 27 - One Nite Stand

September 3 - OLDIES in the Junction with THE RIVIERAS

September 10 - The Retro Rockets

September 17 - The Rod Chaffee Band

September 24 - The Heartbeats

October 1 - RALLY in the VALLEY BIKE NIGHT featuring Sumpin Doo

The beverage garden will be open in RailroadPark from 5:30-8:30 p.m. All concerts are from 6-8:30 p.m.

Concerts are free and are held on the RailroadPark stage, located at the corner of Railroad Avenue and 5th Street, Valley Junction, West Des Moines.

The Historic Valley Junction Farmers' Market is held each Thursday, in the 100, 200 and 300 Blocks of 5th Street in West De Moines, from 4-8 p.m. May 7 through October 1.

Coldplay Extend "Viva La Vida" North American Tour

info@seedesmoines.com — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:43:07 CST

Coldplay announce they will be extending their "Viva La Vida" North American Tour in support of their latest album release of the same name. The tour, which will be produced by Live Nation, will make a stop in Des Moines at Wells Fargo Arena on Friday, June 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets go on-sale this Saturday, March 21 at 10 a.m. through dahlstickets.com, livenation.com, Wells Fargo Arena Box Office, all Dahl's Foods locations, or by calling 866-55-DAHLS.

Coldplay recently took home three awards at the 2009 Grammy's for Song of The Year "Viva La Vida", Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals "Viva La Vida" as well as Best Rock Album.

The members of Coldplay-singer Chris Martin, bassist Guy Berryman, guitarist Jon Buckland and drummer, Will Champion-began playing music together while attending the University College of London. Today, the band's emotionally resonant, catchy rock songs have gained them a massive, worldwide following. Coldplay's first full-length album, Parachutes, was released in 2000 and brought the band great critical acclaim in both the U.K. and the U.S. In 2002, the band released their second album, A Rush of Blood to the Head, which surpassed the success of Parachutes and established the British group as internationally recognized rock stars. After a three-year wait, the band released X&Y in 2005. "Yellow," "Clocks" and "Speed of Sound" are just a few of the hit songs from Coldplay's highly acclaimed career.

Viva La Vida, Coldplay's most recent album, was released last year by Capitol Music Group. Produced by Brian Eno and Markus Dravs, the record is the follow-up to 2005's X&Y, which debuted at #1 in 32 countries and has sold 10 million copies worldwide to date.

"[Lead singer Chris] Martin broods over a lost lover with a snarling acidity that makes him sound more human than ever - miles away from the dreamy romantic he was on soaring ballads like 'Speed of Sound,'" said Rolling Stone, naming "Violet Hill" a must-have in a recent "Downloads" column. "Jonny Buckland rips jagged, bluesy riffs that match Martin's mood while drummer Will Champion and bassist Guy Berryman maintain a stalking beat.primal rock & roll." The Los Angeles Times pronounced the single a "promising return," also marveling at its harder edge.

Drake Relays to be Televised on ESPN 2; Asics Named Presenting Sponsor of Drake Relays

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:54:55 CST

Besided the naming of eightadditions to the Drake Relays Athletes of the Century, Drake Relays director Brian Brown unveiled two major announcements regarding the 100th running of America's Athletic Classic April 22-25 during a Thursday news conference.

Doug Logan, chief executive officer of USA Track and Field, joined via a teleconference disclosing that the historic running of the Drake Relays will be televised on ESPN2.

Brown also disclosed that Asics will be a presenting sponsor of the Drake Relays.

The Saturday, April 25, session of the Drake Relays will be shown on a tape delayed basis on Sunday, April 26, tentatively scheduled for 1 p.m. Central time on ESPN2.

"We're delighted to be part of this celebration of a great sporting event in the Midwest," said Logan. "The 100th anniversary of the Drake Relays is part of the legacy of track and field history in our country.

"We see this event as being one of the important meets offered during the course of any given year and it caused us to take a look at our involvement in the two major events that take place during the course of the same weekend, that being the Drake and Penn Relays. USA Track and Field is designating the last weekend of April as Relays Weekend. We think it will be a great opportunity for our fans throughout the country to be able to follow what has traditionally been the announcement that spring and the outdoor track and field season have arrived."

Logan also disclosed that this year's Drake Relays will be part of the Visa Championship Series.

The Visa Championship Series is a prestigious series of nationally televised USA Track and Field (USATF) competitions featuring the very best track and field athletes from Team USA, the world's No. 1 track team. The 2009 Visa Championship Series also includes the USA vs. The World at the Penn Relays, April 25; adidas Track Classic May 16 in Carson, Calif., the Reebok Grand Prix, New York, N.Y., May 30; the Nike Prefontaine Classic, June 7, Eugene, Ore.; and the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championship, June 25-28, Eugene, Ore.

The top American male finisher and top American female finisher in each event of the Visa Championship Series will have their performances assigned a point total based on the IAAF Scoring Table of Athletics. The athlete whose performance has the highest point total at the end of the Visa Championship Series will be named the Visa Champion.

Gary Slayton, vice president of marketing and communications for Asics Americas, was exicted about the company's relationship with Brown.

"The Drake Relays has been an event that we have admired from a distance and now we're honored to establish this great relationship," said Slayton. "We have a desire to expand our present base and hope that as a global company working with the Drake Relays can be part of the solution in achieving that goal."

Several world-class athletes who compete for Asics will attend the Drake Relays including Lolo Jones, who finished seventh in the 100 hurdles at the 2008 Olympics; two-time Olympian Suzy Powell-Roos, who is the American record holder in the women's discus (222-0); and four-time Olympian Amy Acuff in the women's high jump.

Jones recently captured her third consecutive National Indoor Championship in the 60 hurdles with her winning time of 7.84 fast enough to win a second consecutive VISA Championship, an award given to the best performer for the men and women this indoor season.

New Guide to Seeing Des Moines � Spring/Summer Cover Edition Featuring Lolo Jones

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:22:55 CST

Locals and visitors can now learn more about Greater Des Moines within one free guide. Produced bi-annually, the new See Des Moines guide lists budget-friendly activities, hundreds of dining options, all 100+ area hotels and attractions for all ages.

“The publication, formerly called Intro,was geared specifically towards visitors,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Greg Edwards. “This new guide speaks to both locals and visitors, which is especially important right now – as locals are spending more time exploring their own communities to save money.”

Over 150,000 copies of Spring/Summer 2009 See Des Moines will be delivered to various Greater Des Moines businesses and hotels this week. Copies are also available at the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB), 400 Locust Street, Suite 265, Des Moines. An online version of See Des Moines is available at http://www.SeeDesMoines.com under “Learn More,” click on “Request See Des Moines Guide.” A Fall/Winter 2009 edition will be released in September.

The vision of See Des Moines has been a collaborative effort of the GDMCVB and Business Publications LLC.

For a copy of See Des Moines, contact Tiffany Tauscheck, ttauscheck@desmoinescvb.com.

Allegiant Air Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 01:00:00 CST

Des Moines, Iowa residents will soon get the star treatment as low-cost airline, Allegiant Air, LLC, today announces new, nonstop jet service to Los Angeles from Des Moines International Airport beginning May 24. Allegiant is celebrating the sunny new service by offering fares as low as $99* one-way to the “City of Angels” known for sun, surf, sightseeing and celebrities.

“We're pleased to bring yet another affordable and convenient way for the Des Moines and Central Iowa communities to go on vacation to a sunny destination,” Maurice J. Gallagher, Allegiant Air president & CEO, said. “This is an exciting new addition for our airline and our customers as we launch the only nonstop, all jet service between Des Moines and Los Angeles.”

The new flights will operate two times weekly between Des Moines and Los Angeles International Airport with service Thursday and Sunday. Beginning May 24, flights will depart Des Moines at 8:20 p.m. arriving in Los Angeles at 9:50 p.m. Flights leaving Los Angeles will depart at 2:25 p.m. arriving in Des Moines at 7:40 p.m. (all flight times are local). Allegiant Air provides nonstop service from Des Moines to three other destinations; Las Vegas, Orlando, Fla. and Tampa Bay, Fla.

"It is tremendous to see Allegiant continue to be an engaged partner with Des Moines and central Iowa,” Roy Criss, Des Moines International Airport spokesperson, said. “This service gives us much needed nonstop service to the West Coast."

Located in the heart of sunny Southern California, Los Angeles is just minutes from some of the world’s most exciting experiences. From theme parks to world-famous beaches, unsurpassed shopping to the iconic Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles is an escape from reality. Attractions like Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood keep the adrenaline pumping, while landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theater give visitors a taste of Tinsel Town. In addition, the Los Angeles area boasts some of the world’s most impressive art collections including the Getty Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles.

The Allegiant Vacations division of the company will offer low-cost packages with more than six of the Los Angeles area’s most exciting hotel properties, including: Sheraton Universal Hotel, Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Hyatt Regency Long Beach, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, Marina del Ray Marriott and The Westin Los Angeles Airport.

Allegiant’s $99* one-way introductory fare is limited, must be purchased by March 11, 2009 and is valid for travel through Sept. 30, 2009. Introductory fares are not available on all flights. After the introductory fare period, regular one-way fares on the route start as low as $119 one-way. Allegiant will utilize 150-seat, MD-80 series, jet-aircraft on the route.

Reservations can be made on the airline’s website at www.allegiantair.com, through the airline’s Reservations and Information Center at 702-505-8888 or through professional travel agents.

Delta Enhances New York Service

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 01:00:00 CST

Delta Airlines officials have notified the management of Des Moines International Airport (DSM) that the carrier will increase its service to New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA).

In April, Delta will retime the current daily service to a 6:15 a.m. DSM departure and a 10:02 a.m. LGA arrival. The daily return flight will leave LGA at 7:15 p.m. and arrive in DSM at 9:31 p.m.

Starting May 1st, the original service will remain in place and Delta will add a second daily flight. This one will depart LGA at 9 a.m. and arrive in DSM at 11:25 a.m. It will depart DSM daily at 11:55 a.m. and arrive at LGA at 3:39 p.m.

“This is a great service enhancement”, says DSM Aviation Director Craig Smith. “Central Iowa air travelers will now have even more choices to a major destination. This is good for both the business and leisure travelers.”

All service will be provided by Comair on a 50-seat Regional Jet.

Hundreds of Red Wing Collectors to Gather in Des Moines, February 6-8

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 01:00:00 CST

One of the best times to buy antiques is when there’s a depressed market. Even though Red Wing pottery generally holds its value pretty well, it’s no secret that there will be a lot of people looking for good deals and rare pieces at the Red Wing Collectors Society’s MidWinter GetTogether, slated for Friday, Feb. 6 to Sunday, Feb. 8 in Des Moines.

The Red Wing Collectors Society (RWCS) is the organization devoted to those who collect a diverse line of crocks, jugs, churns, dinnerware and art pottery manufactured in Red Wing from the 1880s to 1960s. Hundreds of people from around the country are expected to attend the February event, which serves as a precursor and helps tie collectors over until the annual national RWCS Convention in Red Wing in July. These two events serve as great opportunities for members to meet and learn about the history of the potteries that once operated in Red Wing, their diverse production lines and the impact they had on the American pottery industry.

Many attendees sell Red Wing wares from their hotel rooms during the MidWinter GetTogether, which is highlighted by organized activities including a reception from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6. The theme of this year’s event is “Back to the 50s” and a “Crock Hop” will even be held during the reception. Educational sessions and KidsView activities will be held for members on Saturday, Feb. 7. The keynote presentation that morning will be given by Bob Kubes, fellow Red Wing collector and agent from the Musty Barnhart Agency, who will explain how to properly insure collections.

Other educational presentations will include Recent Pottery Dump Finds by Steve Showers, Intro to Dinnerware by Larry Roschen and Terry Moe, Red Wing Salt Glaze by Rick Natynski and a special guest presentation by Michael Smith, curator at the Iowa Historical Society Museum. Smith will discuss the Iowa Stoneware Exhibit that’s currently on display at the Des Moines museum.

A show and sale also runs from 1 to 4 p.m. on Feb. 7 followed by an auction at 6 p.m. – both of which are open to the public. Whether you’re new to collecting Red Wing or an experienced collector, there’s something for everyone at the MidWinter GetTogether.

All activities will be held at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, 4800 Merle Hay Road, in Des Moines, Iowa. For more information on the MidWinter GetTogether, or the annual Red Wing Collectors Society Summer Convention, which is slated for July 9-11 in Red Wing, Minn., log on to www.redwingcollectors.org.

The Red Wing Collectors Society was founded in 1977 in Red Wing, Minn. and is devoted to educating people about all American pottery. There are more than 5,000 members worldwide. The Red Wing Potteries had diverse pottery lines that included stoneware, dinnerware and art pottery. For more information or to become a member, call the RWCS business office at 800-977-7927, e-mail membership@redwingcollectors.org or log on to www.redwingcollectors.org.

Dr. Robert Brown to be a Keynote Speaker at Third Annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 01:00:00 CST

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association today announced that Dr. Robert Brown will give a keynote speech at their 3rd Annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit on January 27, 2009. Brown is a professor of mechanical and chemical engineering and the founding director of the Bioeconomy Institute at Iowa State University (ISU) in Ames. The free event is hosted by the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) and will take place at the Polk County Convention Center from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Dr. Brown, director of ISU’s Office of Biorenewables Programs, will address Summit participants on “An Acre for an Acre? Implementing a Low Carbon Fuel Standard.” Some have argued that using corn and soybean oil for biofuels production results in the need to increase crop planting in other areas, like the Brazilian rain forest. Dr. Brown will review the science and facts, or lack thereof, behind these “indirect land use” theories, which are being promoted in an effort to kick ethanol out of key markets resulting in greater use of foreign oil.

“We’re very excited to have someone of the stature of Dr. Brown as a part of our Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit this year,” said Monte Shaw, IRFA executive director. “He has been a leader in demanding sound science be applied to questions regarding the energy efficiency and greenhouse gas impacts of renewable fuels and petroleum products. Too often, groups with hidden agendas are trying to drive public policy based on ‘political’ science, not sound science. We look forward to Dr. Brown clearing the air.”

Other topics featured at this year’s Summit are: “RFS2: Holding Renewable Fuels to a Higher Standard?” “An Acre for An Acre? Implementing a Low Carbon Fuel Standard,” “Beating the Blend Wall,” and “Linking the Value Chain.” Anyone with questions or to obtain information on this event can go to the Iowa Renewable Fuels website at iowarfa.org.

Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production. Iowa has 36 ethanol refineries with a combined annual capacity of nearly 2.9 billion gallons in operation. There are 7 ethanol refineries under construction that will add 850 million gallons of capacity. In addition, Iowa has 14 biodiesel refineries with the capacity to produce over 317 million gallons annually. Two biodiesel refineries under construction or expansion will add 35 million gallons of annual capacity. Many additional renewable fuels projects are under development.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association was formed in 2002 to represent the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry. The trade group fosters the development and growth of the renewable fuels industry in Iowa through education, promotion, legislation and infrastructure development.

Industry Growth Obstacles, Opportunities and Solutions Addressed at Third Annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 01:00:00 CST

The 3rd Annual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit will address the challenges, opportunities, and solutions for growing the renewable fuels industry. The event will take place at the Polk County Convention Complex from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on January 27, 2009. The Summit is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required.

“Renewable fuel producers are facing one of the most challenging periods in their short history and, at the very same time, a period poised for great opportunities,” said Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA), which is hosting the Summit. “Our free, one-day Summit will focus on the issues that will determine the future success of the renewable fuels industry. We’ve brought together distinguished speakers from across the country to tackle these questions.”

The first panel topic is: “RFS2: Holding Renewable Fuels to a Higher Standard?” Dr. Robert Brown, Director of the Office of Biorenewables Programs at Iowa State University, will discuss the strict greenhouse gas (GHG) standards being placed on renewable fuels that do not apply to petroleum products. Logan Caldwell, Houston BioFuels Consultants, will speak on energy efficiency trends in gasoline production while John Christianson, of Christianson and Associates, will review recent energy use studies detailing trends in renewable fuels production.

Another panel will focus on where the growing volume of ethanol and biodiesel will be marketed. “Beating the Blend Wall” panelist John Campbell with Omaha-based AGP, will speak of the role B20 will play in expanding biodiesel demand while Brian Jennings, with the American Coalition for Ethanol, will discuss how adoption of mid-level blends, such as E13 or E15, for all vehicles on the road today could aid ethanol in climbing over the blend wall and achieving greater long-term demand for ethanol fuels.

The third panel topic is “Linking the Value Chain.” Scott Poor, Green Plains Renewable Energy, will outline his company’s innovative approach for ethanol refineries to produce algae that can provide oil for processing into biodiesel. Glycerin, a co-product of biodiesel production, has a promising future in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and more recently livestock feed. The synergies between ethanol production and glycerin may bring the biofuels industry into closer partnerships. Dave Elsenbast with the Renewable Energy Group will discuss these markets for glycerin. And, Christian Schutz with Global Ethanol will share how Global has married corn oil extracted during the ethanol process with biodiesel production at its Lakota, Iowa facility.

World renowned engineer and best-selling author Robert Zubrin will be a keynote speaker. He is well-known for his straightforward, practical energy policy calling for Congress to pass a law requiring that all new cars sold be flex-fueled – able to run on a combination of gasoline and ethanol. Zubrin will address Summit participants on “Energy Victory: Winning the War on Terror by Breaking Free of Oil.”

Pre-registration is required by January 22, which can be done at www.IowaRFA.org. Anyone with questions or to obtain information on exhibiting can contact Lucy Norton at the IRFA office at (515) 252-6249.

Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production. Iowa has 36 ethanol refineries with a combined annual capacity of nearly 2.9 billion gallons in operation. There are 7 ethanol refineries under construction that will add 850 million gallons of capacity. In addition, Iowa has 14 biodiesel refineries with the capacity to produce over 317 million gallons annually. Two biodiesel refineries under construction or expansion will add 35 million gallons of annual capacity. Many additional renewable fuels projects are under development.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association was formed in 2002 to represent the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry. The trade group fosters the development and growth of the renewable fuels industry in Iowa through education, promotion, legislation and infrastructure development.

Chow's Rising Stars Challenge Attracts 700 Gymnasts to the City

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 01:00:00 CST

Chow's Gymnastics in West Des Moines, home gym of Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson, is hosting the Chow’s Rising Stars Challenge. The meet, which will be held January 16, 17 and 18, 2009, at Veterans Memorial Auditorium, will bring approximately 700 gymnasts, their families and coaches to Greater Des Moines for the weekend.

Beginning Friday morning at 8 a.m. and ending Sunday evening at 9 p.m., this event promises ongoing women’s competitive gymnastics for 13 hours each day. The nearly 700 gymnasts registered to compete are traveling from throughout the Midwest and beyond to be there. Some gymnastics teams are coming from as far away as Indiana and Tennessee.

Owner of Chow’s Gymnastics in West Des Moines and Head Coach of the 2008 United States Women’s Gymnastics Olympic Team, Liang Chow, will be directing the meet.

“This will be the premier gymnastics event in Iowa this season,” says Chow. “The competition will be tough. It will be a good test for our optional team’s first meet and a great meet to watch.” The highest-level gymnasts, Levels 9-10, will be performing Saturday evening. Attendance is open to the public and tickets are available at the door.

A guest speaker for the event, Iowa State University’s Women’s Gymnastics Head Coach Jay Ronayne,will also be on hand to discuss collegiate gymnastics. Ronayne will present at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, January 18 in the Awards Room.

Other speakers include:

• Andrea Barnes, Gymnastics Recruiting Consultant

10 a.m. Sunday, January 18

Awards Room, Veterans Memorial Auditorium

Barnes will share the top 10 things you need to know to get started on your quest to earn a collegiate gymnastics scholarship.

• Guest Speaker: Don Zile, Former San Jose Track Coach

10:45 a.m. Sunday, January 18

Awards Room, Veterans Memorial Auditorium

Zile will discuss the keys to a great running stride. His analysis and insights can unlock speed for an explosive vault run and powerful tumbling.

Contact Deb King at (515) 720-7045 with questions.

Des Moines Arts Festival Ranked No. 5 in Poll of Top 10 Art Fairs & Festivals by AmericanStyle Magazine

info@seedesmoines.com — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 01:00:00 CST

Des Moines Arts Festival has been ranked fifth in the nation in the fifth-annual reader’s poll of the Top 10 Art Fairs and Festivals in AmericanStyle magazine. The Festival, presented by The Des Moines Register, returns to Western Gateway Park on June 26-28, 2009 in Downtown Des Moines.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by the reader’s of AmericanStyle magazine and proud to have this event and Des Moines placed on the national stage,” Stephen King, Des Moines Arts Festival Executive Director said. “The Des Moines community has embraced this event, so it’s great to be receiving this national recognition.”

Ballots appeared in the August 2008 issue of AmericanStyle magazine and online beginning in May. A full write-up on each event ranked in the Top 10 will be available online and in the February 2009 issue of AmericanStyle magazine, the 2009 fairs and festivals guide, on newsstands later this month. The Festival was ranked No. 10 in the nation in last year’s reader’s poll.

“It [Des Moines Arts Festival] is a community-wide event that brings out the very best Des Moines has to offer. It’s not just the art-which is stupendous-it’s the environment, the ambience,” Jim Flansburg of Clive, Iowa, said to AmericanStyle.

175 professional visual artists have been invited to participate in next year’s juried art fair in 14 categories: 2-D Mixed Media, 3-D Mixed Media, Ceramics, Digital, Drawings/Pastels, Fiber, Glass, Graphics/Printmaking, Jewelry, Metalworks, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Wood. For a complete listing of invited artists visit desmoinesartsfestival.org.

In addition, 24 Iowa residents attending universities, colleges, and art schools across the nation were selected by the professional artist jury to feature their art at the Festival in the Emerging Iowa Artists program, sponsored by Principal Financial Group®.

The Festival also features live artist demonstrations, family and children’s arts activities, live entertainment, street theatre, eclectic food booths, Interrobang Film Festival, art from Iowa students in grades K-12 in the Nurturing a Student’s Vision Program and much more!

The mission of the Des Moines Arts Festival, a non-profit organization, is to enrich the quality of life in central Iowa by creating an opportunity for people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds to embrace the arts.

The Des Moines Arts Festival is presented by The Des Moines Register, founded by the Des Moines Art Center and produced by Downtown Events Group. The Festival is sponsored by Prairie Meadows, Principal Financial Group®, Bank of the West, Des Moines Radio Group, GuideOne Insurance, Iowa Public Radio, U.S. Cellular and WHO-TV 13. For more information on the Des Moines Arts Festival visit desmoinesartsfestival.org.

First published in 1994, AmericanStyle magazine is the national arts lifestyle magazine for enthusiasts, collectors and travelers. Published bimonthly, AmericanStyle can be found online at americanstyle.com and on newsstands nationwide. Featuring articles on contemporary artists, collectors, arts travel and art events, AmericanStyle’s annual Top 25 Arts Destinations readers’ poll has earned the magazine national recognition for being the premier arts travel resource.

Des Moines Welcomes 2009 Iowa State Dance/Drill Team Championships

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:00:00 CST

Nearly 5,000 participants will perform at the 2009 Iowa State High School Dance/Drill Team Championships Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6 at Veterans Memorial Auditorium and Hy-Vee Hall. The third annual Iowa College Dance Competition will also be held on Friday, December 5.

“Everyone loves to come to Des Moines for the State Championships,” says Kathy Enyart, Executive Director of the Iowa Dance/Drill Team Association. “We love all of the hotel accommodations available to us along with the many shopping malls and restaurants to choose from. Veterans Memorial Auditorium and Hy-Vee Hall facilities are ideal for our competition schedule.”

The 275 high school teams and 18 college teams will be judged by an expert panel of judges from across the Unites States in several categories including pom, jazz, novelty, lights, military, hip hop, lyrical, hoopla, prop, kick, show production, color guard, all-male and co-ed.

Teams will be awarded Division I, II and III ratings along with trophy placements for teams with the highest point totals. The two-day competition scores on appearance, choreography, execution, technique and general effect/showmanship, as well as academics, community service and sportsmanship.

Competition runs from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. both days and doors open at 7 a.m. Tickets are $9 per day or $16 for a two-day pass. No advance ticket sales. All seats are general admission.

New! State Fair Tickets Make Perfect Gift for Fair Fanatics

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 01:00:00 CST

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? How about tickets to the other most wonderful time of the year – the Iowa State Fair! Tickets are on sale now and will only be available online at iowastatefair.org. This is the first time the Fair has offered tickets for the holiday season.

Choose from $7 adult admission tickets or punch cards with 11-days worth of admission ($77). Shipping and handling fees apply.

“This year everyone is searching for economically-priced gifts that friends and family are sure to love. Fair tickets are a match on both accounts,” says Fair Manager Gary Slater.

Tickets will be available through December 31. Allow one week for mailing time.

“State Fair Time” in 2009 is set August 13-23. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

2008-09 Winter Ring in the Season at Holiday Lights Des Moines

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:00:00 CST

Welcome the holiday season to downtown as we Flip the Switch on the holidays, bringing together the sights and sounds of the season at Holiday Lights Des Moines from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, 2008, at Brenton Skating Plaza (520 Robert D. Ray Drive). Admission to Holiday Lights Des Moines is FREE!

Holiday Lights Des Moines features a tree lighting, fireworks, live performances from musicians and choirs, face painting, carriage rides, seasonal food vendors, and appearances by Santa Claus and the Conductor from The Polar Express on the evening after Thanksgiving! At 6:25 p.m., Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie flips the switch on a beautiful lighted city tree! A fireworks finale closes the evening at 6:30 p.m.

The evening opens with a performance from The Nutcracker by The Iowa Dance Theater. The Des Moines Playhouse will have guests laughing with a scene from the holiday classic The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Local choirs create the sounds of the season, while local food vendors bring the tastes of the holidays with hot apple cider, roasted nuts, hot chocolate and many more seasonal favorites.

Brenton Skating Plaza is open for public skating from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. on Nov. 28. Adult admission to skate is $3.00, admission for children 12 and under is $2.00, and skate rental is $2.50.

Following the lighting, join us for another special community event under the stars at Festival of Trees and Lights at the Polk County Convention Complex. Admission to Festival of Trees and Lights is free from 6:30-8 p.m. on Nov. 28, but goodwill donations will be accepted.

Free parking is available in the city parking lot north of the Armory Building (602 Robert D. Ray Drive); access the lot from Des Moines St. Free parking is also available in the city parking lot east of City Hall (400 Robert D. Ray Drive). Street parking is free at all city meters after 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.

Holiday Lights Des Moines is sponsored by MidAmerican Energy, Operation Downtown, City of Des Moines, Brenton Skating Plaza, Iowa Cubs, Lite 104.1, KIOA 93.3, and produced by Downtown Events Group.

For complete schedules and more information on Holiday Lights Des Moines, visit www.holidaylightsdsm.org or call (515) 286-4950.

Investors of the Downtown Events Group are City of Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, Polk County, Prairie Meadows and Principal Financial Group®.

GDMCVB Celebrates 100 Years

info@seedesmoines.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:00:00 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) has been serving the community since 1908. Throughout the years, the GDMCVB has seen many changes and celebrated many successes. On this day, marking 100 years of service, the GDMCVB celebrates with the following announcements:

•The launch of a new GDMCVB website, SeeDesMoines.com

•The recognition of GDMCVB predecessors, specifically George Hamilton

•The naming of 2007/2008 Fiscal Year Award Recipients

New GDMCVB Website

A new website with interactive maps, expanded business directories, search tools and videos showcasing Greater Des Moines has launched. The website showcases Greater Des Moines as a place where you can “Do More.”

GDMCVB Predecessors Lead to Current Successes

From 1914-1938, George Hamilton, dubbed the Father of the Des Moines Convention Bureau, led the GDMCVB. At that time the GDMCVB was called the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Convention Bureau. Hamilton wrote the famous song “I-O-Way” and was applauded for raising Des Moines’ image throughout his time with the GDMCVB.

In the early 1900s, approximately 30-40 conventions were being held in Des Moines annually. By the end of Hamilton’s leadership at the GDMCVB in 1938, there were 273 national, regional and state conventions being held in Des Moines.

In 2007/2008 Fiscal Year, the GDMCVB brought 585 conventions, 488 sporting events, 251 motor coach tours and 2.7 million visitors to Greater Des Moines.

“We are proud of the progress we’ve made over the years,” said GDMCVB President/CEO Greg Edwards. “We are committed to continually serving as Greater Des Moines’ destination manager by promoting our communities world-wide.”

Fiscal Year Award Recipients

GDMCVB 2007/2008 goals and successes were reached, thanks in part to the following Award Recipients:

Friend of Hospitality: Barbara Eslick, Renaissance Savery Hotel

Media Friend of Hospitality: Des Moines Radio Group

Civic Friend of Hospitality: Traffic and Transportation Department, City of Des Moines

Sport Friend of Hospitality: Bob Egr, USSSA

Corporate Friend of Hospitality: Freeman

Partner of the Year: Matt Homan, Iowa Events Center

Spirit of the Community: John and Mary Pappajohn

Volunteer of the Year: GDMCVB Airport Information Booth Volunteers

These organizations have been recognized for their commitment to the community and the GDMCVB through various acts of generosity, volunteerism, donations and partnerships with the GDMCVB staff, clients and partners

Ready, Set, Snow! Brenton Skating Plaza opens for the 2008-09 Winter Season

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 01:00:00 CST

Bundle up for Family Fun! After an autumn full of and preparation, Brenton Skating Plaza will officially open for the 2008-09 Skating Season on Friday, November 21, 2008. Brenton Skating Plaza will kick things off early with Free Public Skating from 6-9 a.m., including admission and skate rental while Maxwell & Pam of KIOA Radio broadcast live on location. Skaters and Patrons will be offered Free Breakfast courtesy of The Singing Gourmet & the Egg Council along with Free Coffee from Brenton Skating Plaza during the broadcast.

The fun doesn’t stop after breakfast; Brenton Skating Plaza will be open for Public Skating from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m., including the first Rock the River with Live D.J. from 8-11 p.m. Prize Giveaways all day long! “We are so excited for our third season”, says Robbin McClelland, General Manager, “We have great events planned all winter long!” Over the next few months to come, Brenton Skating Plaza will host countless events, drives, and activities. Des Moines residents and visitors can look forward to local celebrity appearances, Downtown Holiday Tree-Lighting festivities, and the Des Moines Winter Games in addition to Public Skating seven days a week, including holidays! Brenton Skating Plaza also offers group and private lessons, group rates, private rink rentals, birthday/winter party packages, Broom Ball Leagues, College Night on Thursdays, and Rock the River with a live D.J. every Friday night!

Brenton Skating Plaza is Des Moines’ only permanent outdoor ice skating facility and family entertainment venue. Gifted by the Brenton Foundation, the facility is the first of its kind in the state of Iowa. Conveniently located along the Principal Riverwalk on the Des Moines River waterfront, Brenton Skating plaza brings a bit of magic downtown. Enjoy breathtaking cityscape and riverfront views while having some fun and getting some exercise. Brenton Skating Plaza is definitely a must when it comes to experiencing downtown Des Moines. Brenton is the perfect setting for family fun, a great date spot, or a fabulous location for your private event. Visit www.brentonplaza.com for more information and a complete schedule.

Greater Des Moines Travel Numbers Rise

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 02:00:00 CST

More visitors, and their dollars, are coming into Greater Des Moines.

In 2007, Greater Des Moines hosted over 2.7 million visitors who spent $1.6 billion between Polk and Dallas counties, according to the Economic Impact of Travel Study released by the Iowa Department of Economic Development’s Iowa Tourism Office. This makes up one quarter of Iowa’s $6.3 billion in travel expenditures.

“This is great news for our state and for Greater Des Moines,” said Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) President/CEO Greg Edwards. “This shows that our commitment to promoting the community through various marketing efforts and conventions, events and sports incentives is working.”

Polk and Dallas counties have a combined growth rate of 7.3 percent in travel expenditures from 2006. Polk county travel expenditures were at nearly $1.5 billion in 2007, while Dallas county brought in $128 million.

Greater Des Moines travel expenditures were driven, in part, by conventions and sports events secured by the GDMCVB and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission (DMASC), including the NCAA Division I Track & Field Regional Competition, North American Fast Pitch Association World Series, American Wind Energy Association Windpower Conference, Women of Faith and Pheasants Forever, to name a few.

The Iowa Caucuses, which brought in an estimated 2,500 media, also helped raise expenditures from October through December in Greater Des Moines.

Des Moines Ranks #1 for Affordability

info@seedesmoines.com — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 02:00:00 CST

Des Moines has been named the most affordable U.S. city to hold tradeshows in, according to Tradeshow Week. The announcement, made yesterday, shows dollars go further in Iowa’s capital city.

Des Moines’ cost effective hotel rates and restaurants contributed to the top-in-the-country ranking, proving locals and visitors can “Do More in Des Moines” for less. The city’s central location at the intersection of Interstates 80 and 35 also contribute to ease of travel and affordability.

Greg Edwards, President/CEO of the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau said, “The news of Des Moines being the best place to save tradeshow planners and attendees money is great news for all of us. As word spreads, we anticipate more calls and more bookings, meaning more money will flow into our local economy.”

Greater Des Moines’ facilities, including the Iowa State Fairgrounds, Wells Fargo Arena, Hy-Vee Hall, Veterans Memorial Auditorium and Polk County Convention Complex hold hundreds of tradeshows and events each year. Advantages such as a 4-mile skywalk system throughout Downtown Des Moines and the Des Moines International Airport help Greater Des Moines stand out from other similarly-sized cities.

The ranking was determined by the Tradeshow Week editorial staff with data collected from the federal government’s 2008 Domestic Per Diem Rates for meals and incidentals, Smith Travel Research’s survey of domestic hotel rates and Tradeshow Week’s 2008 Survey of U.S. and Canadian Labor Rates. A story outlining details of the news is available here: http://www.tradeshowweek.com/article/CA6592078.html?q=des+moines.

For more information on Greater Des Moines, or for free help planning an upcoming event or meeting, visit SeeDesMoines.com.

Civic Center Announces the 2008-2009 Willis Broadway Series

info@seedesmoines.com — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 01:00:00 CST

The Civic Center of Greater Des Moines, Central Iowa's premier not-for-profit performing arts center, announced the long awaited lineup for the 2008-2009 Willis Broadway Series sponsored by the Willis Auto Campus (formerly known as the Betts Broadway Series). This marks the Civic Center's 30th season of presenting professional touring Broadway in Central Iowa.

2008-2009 Willis Broadway Series 5-Show Package:

• Frost Nixon - Sept. 30-Oct. 5, 2008

• Spring Awakening - Jan. 20-25, 2009

• Legally Blonde - Feb. 24-March 1, 2009

• The Color Purple - April 7-12, 2009

• Wicked - Sept. 23-Oct. 18, 2009

2008-2009 Willis Broadway Series Special Presentations:

• Rain - Oct. 31-Nov. 2, 2008

• Monty Python's Spamalot - Dec. 23-28, 2008

• Hairspray - March 20-22, 2009

• Mamma Mia! - June 10-14, 2009

Visit civiccenter.org for the most up-to-date information.

CVB Achieves Destination Marketing Accreditation

info@seedesmoines.com — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 02:00:00 CST

The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) announced today that it has been awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP). DMAP is an international accreditation program developed by the Washington, DC based Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI). In earning the DMAP accreditation, destination marketing organizations (DMOs) communicate to their community, buyers and potential visitors that their DMO has attained a significant measure of excellence.

“The Greater Des Moines CVB is honored to receive the Destination Marketing Accreditation from DMAP,” said Greg Edwards, president and CEO of the Greater Des Moines CVB. “We are very pleased to be recognized in the destination marketing community for providing outstanding services in accordance with international standards and benchmarks in this field.”

“By applying for and receiving DMAP accreditation, the Greater Des Moines CVB has demonstrated a commitment to quality programs and services,” said Barry Biggar, CDME, DMAP Board Chair. “Earning DMAP accreditation tells the Greater Des Moines community and potential visitors that your DMO has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well placed and their business in good hands.”

The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) brings together the interests of area government, trade, civic organizations, tourism organizations, hotels/motels, restaurants, retailers, and attractions in order to build outside visitor traffic to the area. The bureau is the area’s liaison between potential visitors to the area and the businesses/organizations, which will host them. It acts as an information center, convention management consultant and marketing/promotion agency for greater Des Moines. DMAP accreditation standards cover a wide variety of topics including governance, finance, management, human resources, technology, visitor services, group services, sales, communications, membership, brand management, destination development, research/market intelligence, innovation and stakeholder relationships.

DMAP is an independent international accreditation body and a leader in defining quality and performance issues in destination marketing. For additional information on DMAP visit www.destinationmarketing.org.